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Abu Dhabi, UAE, January 27, 2026
Spanning December 10th-11th, the Global Games Show Abu Dhabi 2025, produced by VAP Group and co-hosted by Abu Dhabi Gaming, concluded successfully on a high note. It has become a major landmark within the world of gaming, Web3, esports, AI, immersive technologies, and interactive entertainment.
By bringing together 5000+ attendees, 100+ global speakers, and 100+ companies, the event had a variety of game developers, publishers, Web3 innovators, esports leaders, investors, content creators, and policymakers gathering for two days to discuss how gaming is evolving to become a global multi-billion-dollar convergence of technology, culture, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital ownership.
Abu Dhabi has become an increasingly popular destination for gamers due to its focus on the entertainment industry and large investments made by Abu Dhabi Gaming. The Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau partnered with the Global Games Show to create an environment that will encourage collaboration between international game companies, developers, content creators, and financial backers to help them shape the future of gaming.
A Global Gathering of the Gaming and Interactive Entertainment Ecosystem
The Global Games Show Abu Dhabi attracted a diverse and global audience with representatives from many different types of organizations within the gaming sector: Game studios, publishers, Web3 gaming, esports, investment, technology providers, and game communities within each region.
The event also demonstrated how fast the gaming industry has changed from traditional gaming models to player-centric economies, decentralized platforms, and mobile-centric ecosystems. immersive persistent virtual worlds and community-based growth models, in addition to highlighting the role of gaming in our culture and as an economic engine.

Thought Leadership Driving the Next Era of Gaming
During the event, many gaming industry leaders presented insights on how new technologies and business models are helping to redefine the future of gaming by combining creative innovation with scalable profitability through keynotes, panels, fireside chats, and special presentations.
Key themes explored included
Future of Web3 Gaming & Decentralized EconomiesExpansion of Blockchain and Digital Asset Ownership within GamesAI-driven Game Development, Analytics and Player EngagementExpansion and Monetization of EsportsInfrastructure, Scalability and Interoperability of Game DevelopmentCommunity-driven Game Development and Creator EcosystemsRegulation, Sustainability and Future of Gaming IndustryConvergence of Gaming and Immersive Worlds
Headline speakers included:
Shawn Layden, Managing Partner, The Odysseus Partnership, Former chairman of PlayStationJasper Hu, Principal Solutions Architect, PingCAPSébastien Borget, Co-Founder, The SandboxMohammed Yaseen, Founder, Esports & Gaming Association UAEYat Siu, Co-Founder & Chairman, Animoca BrandsCathy Hackl, Tech & Gaming Executive and Chief Executive Officer, Future DynamicsDaniel Wang, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, AethirMarcos Muller-Habig, Sector Enablement Director, Abu Dhabi GamingTess Hau, Founder, Tess VenturesMichail Katkoff, Founder, Deconstructor of Fun
Esports, Web3 Gaming and Innovation at the Core
Powered by the Times of Games, the Global Games Show Abu Dhabi showcased the emergence of gaming and next-gen interactivity as a central theme. Various sessions were held to investigate how decentralization will allow for new methods of player ownership, monetization, and community engagement while fundamentally altering the developer/player/community dynamic.
Esports leadership as well as gaming entrepreneurs spoke on how mobile esports are continuing to become more professionalized in recent times, particularly across the MENA region, Asia, and LATAM, and how tournament structures and revenue models are continuing to evolve.
“As someone who recently launched a game, this event has been incredibly valuable. I met other starters, learned through meaningful conversations, and gained insights that will help shape my journey moving forward.” Kanessah Muluneh, CEO, Rise of Fearless
As co-host of the Global Games Show, Abu Dhabi Gaming used the platform to highlight the emirate’s ambition to become a leading global hub for gaming and esports. Throughout the event, the Abu Dhabi Gaming team engaged directly with start-ups, studios, and investors, showcasing the emirate’s competitive incentives, funding opportunities, and world-class infrastructure available to companies looking to establish or expand their operations in Abu Dhabi’s thriving gaming ecosystem.
Dynamic Exhibition and Startup Showcase
The exhibition was a lively display of the continuing development of new ideas. Examples include: 
Game Publishers and Studios Web3 Gaming Ecosystems (web3) and providers of Blockchain InfrastructureE-sports organizations and competitive gaming formatsThe application of AI in gaming toolsThe use of immersive technologies in gaming
The participants were able to learn more about the current development of gaming technologies by participating in active demo showcases, live showcases, and all of the latest developments in the gaming industry that will drive the future of interactive entertainment. Startups were connected directly to investors, publishers, and strategic partners to create strategies for funding, creating partnerships, and global growth within their company.
High-Value Networking and Community-Led Engagement
By bringing together industry founders, developers, investors, creators, and policymakers, the Global Games Show encouraged collaboration and meaningful networking. The event featured a range of curated networking formats, including closed-door VIP meetings and an invitation-only Global Games VIP Dinner, enabling focused and valuable discussions.
“It’s great; there are very interesting people around here. I’ve already had a couple of interesting chats. Some old friends from all around the globe were coming. So I’m very positive about the event, and I love Abu Dhabi; it’s amazing. I’ve been following the Abu Dhabi gaming guys for quite some time and how they’re developing the ecosystem here, and I’m all supportive of that. I really hope there will be some great games coming out of the region, some great products that also go to the West. That would be my hope. So I’m very much enjoying my time here.” Georg Broxterman, Founder & CEO, Game Influencer
While other local and international shows often facilitate a transactional approach to engagement, the Global Games Show encouraged authentic conversations between exhibitors and attendees, formed cross-industry partnerships, and built opportunities for collaboration at an ecosystem level, demonstrating its role in creating a foundation for sustainable, long-term growth in the gaming industry.
Powering the Future of Gaming and Digital Entertainment
At the conclusion of Global Games Show Abu Dhabi 2025, it was clear that gaming has evolved beyond entertainment to become a vital part of the digital economy, culture, and technological innovation
"Amazing energy, passionate builders, and meaningful conversations.” Sebastien Borget, Co-Founder & Global Ambassador, The Sandbox & Sandchain
The Global Games Show brought together creators, technologists, investors, and policymakers to define and drive the ongoing development of gaming and interactive entertainment. 
Building on this positive momentum, the next event in the Global Games Show series takes place in Riyadh on 29-30 June, 2026, and has the potential to expand further into a rapidly developing market for game-related products and services.
About the Global Games Show
The Global Games Show serves as a premier international platform convening government leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators to advance global collaboration in artificial intelligence.
Powered by VAP Group, the event reinforces the UAE’s position as a leading international hub for emerging technologies, digital transformation, and forward-looking governance.
About VAP Group
VAP Group is a leading AI, Blockchain, and Gaming consulting powerhouse, delivering advanced AI & Web3 solutions for 12+ years through flagship global events such as the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show. With a strong presence in the UAE, UK, India, and Hong Kong, our 170+ experts keep clients ahead of innovation through strategic PR, marketing, bounty campaigns, and premier global conferences. We also provide advertising, media, and staffing services.
Media inquiries: 
Global Games Show Media team
Media@globalgamesshow.com

Abu Dhabi, UAE, January 27, 2026

The Global AI Show Abu Dhabi 2025, which was held on December 8-9th, 2025, at the Space42 Arena in Abu Dhabi and organized by the VAP Group and powered by the Times of AI, has ended and continues to elevate Abu Dhabi's reputation as a center for innovation, policy leadership, and corporate adoption of artificial intelligence.
The 2-day exhibition welcomed 5,000+ attendees, 100+ speakers from all around the world, and a powerful group of policymakers, enterprise leaders, technologists, investors, researchers, and start-ups. It cemented its position as a landmark event on the global AI calendar, aligning with the UAE's AI Strategy 2031 and Abu Dhabi's goal of making the UAE the leader in the Intelligent World.
As a forward-looking platform, the Global AI Show served as an example of how to create an environment for collaboration, constructive dialogue, and ultimately action connecting the newest technologies with large-scale, real-world applications across multiple sectors and government entities.
“We were very excited at BigBear.ai to be the title sponsor of the Global AI Show. It is a tremendous opportunity to engage with companies innovating in AI, as well as governments & commercial organizations actively adopting AI into their operations.” Said Kevin McAleenan, Chief Executive Officer, BigBear.ai
A Global Convergence of AI Leaders and Innovators
Attendees from all over the world, representing various government entities and business sectors, including enterprise, startup, research institution, venture capital, and technology provider, gathered together for the Global AI Show 2025: Abu Dhabi event. A vast array of attendee types demonstrated that AI has moved beyond being an experimental tool and now represents a major technology driving the next generation of digital economies and societal transformation.
“The way emerging developments across fintech, aviation, healthcare & other sectors were explained was impressive. The level of collaboration with government agencies in the UAE & globally made the event even more impactful. I truly enjoyed it.”  said Techmetron, UK
Participants on both the Vision stage and Impact stage had the opportunity to participate in multi-faceted discussions across the sectors mentioned above, but also included financial services (banking/credit), healthcare, the public sector (government), cybersecurity, smart cities, sustainable development, and supporting industries.

Visionary Thought Leadership and Actionable Insights
The agenda included keynote speeches, lively panels, informal discussions, startup pitch contests, and industry-relevant sessions, uniting visions of the future with actionable insights to assist with implementing new technologies. The agenda included practical examples and opportunities to discuss how companies deployed their products. 
Speakers addressed how industry-specific policies impacted Large Language Models (LLMs) and generative AI technologies currently being developed.
A number of primary themes were highlighted during the event, including
• The role of government leadership as innovating enablers for AI and other technologies
• Creating responsible artificial intelligence (AI), including issues of ethics and regulation
• Best practices for implementing an enterprise-scale AI strategy within organizations
• The potential impact of GenAI and LLMs on the future of work and human-AI collaboration
• Impact of AI on health care, finance, cyber security and smart infrastructure
• The role of data in enabling the scaling up of AI capabilities in the Cloud
Notable speakers included:
H.E. Eng. Amal Abdulrahim, Assistant Undersecretary for The Support Services Sector, Chief AI & Innovation Officer, UAE Ministry of Climate Change and EnvironmentH. E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security, United Arab Emirates GovernmentDr. Marwan Alzarouni, CEO - AI, Dubai Economy and TourismH.E. Renat Bekturov, Governor, Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Republic of KazakhstanMohammad Almansoori, Chief AI Officer, Ministry of Foreign AffairsAndy Tang, Partner, Draper Associates, Founding partner, Draper DragonH. E. Mubaraka Ibrahim, Chief AI Officer, Emirates Health ServicesJoseph Bradley, CEO, JMB X & Ex-CEO, TONOMUS (NEOM subsidiary)Sandeep Nailwal, Co-Founder & CEO, Polygon FoundationKevin McAleenan, Chief Executive Officer, BigBear.ai
Strong Government, Policy, and Institutional Engagement
A key strength of the Global AI Show Abu Dhabi was the extensive engagement with relevant government, regulatory, and institutional organizations that confirmed the need for developing responsible innovation and governance capabilities.
The event was supported by:
Supporting Partner: National Program for Artificial Intelligence (UAE)Destination Partner: Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition BureauStrategic Partner: UAE Cyber Security Council
The spanning of these partnerships demonstrated the UAE's commitment to the ethical, trustworthy, and value-centric path of AI development while supporting the economic success of the UAE.
Innovation Showcase and Startup Ecosystem Spotlight
The exhibition space featured numerous innovative solutions, including
Platforms for enterprise AIDigital Health & Intelligent Medicine SolutionsRobots and Automation SolutionsSmart City/Infrastructure SolutionsFinancial Technology (Fintech) and AI in Financial Services and BankingSustainable Innovation / Climate InnovationWeb3 and Decentralised AI Tools
The startup pitch and AI Ventures segments of the Global AI Show showcased new brands developing artificial intelligence, such as Ravan AI and Atelic AI, whereas, on the venture side, panels were held that highlighted some of the best minds working with investors, including Draper Associates, SteelSky Ventures, Shorooq, MFV Partners, Novo Capital, Atlas Ventures, and NYU Abu Dhabi.
High-Value Networking and Strategic Collaboration
True to its stated mission, the Global AI Show was committed to facilitating high-intensity, outcome-driven networking. Thousands of meetings were held in publicly accessible, customized networking zones, VIP meetings, and ecosystem roundtables, creating opportunities for partnerships, pilot project development, investment discussions, and cross-border collaboration.
“I spent a lot of time in Saudi Arabia & some time in Dubai, & it is encouraging to see the entire GCC coming together around Al. This being the third edition, the growth in participation & engagement is clearly visible.” Joseph Bradley, CEO, JMB X & Ex-CEO, TONOMUS (NEOM subsidiary)
Due to the level of senior decision-maker present, the audience made for a uniquely effective platform to allow for real business success beyond just this event.
Shaping the Responsible and Scalable AI Future
It is particularly noteworthy that the Global AI Show Abu Dhabi 2025 conveyed a clear message: AI is already affecting tomorrow's world. However, success lies in responsible innovation, collaboration, and scaling of systems.
As noted, the Global AI Show brought together policymakers, large enterprises, academic researchers, startup companies, and investors around one common purpose of defining and developing the AI of the future. 
As a result of the Global AI Show Abu Dhabi 2025, momentum continues to build toward the next step in the journey with the Global AI Show Riyadh on 29-30 June 2026, coinciding with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the investment from Saudi Arabia into developing AI, and the largest digital transformation project in history.

About the Global AI Show
The Global AI Show serves as a premier international platform convening government leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators to advance global collaboration in artificial intelligence.
Powered by VAP Group, the event reinforces the UAE’s position as a leading international hub for emerging technologies, digital transformation, and forward-looking governance.
About VAP Group
VAP Group is a leading AI, blockchain, and gaming consulting powerhouse, delivering advanced AI & Web3 solutions for 12+ years through flagship global events such as the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show. With a strong presence in the UAE, UK, India, and Hong Kong, our 170+ experts keep clients ahead of innovation through strategic PR, marketing, bounty campaigns, and premier global conferences. We also provide advertising, media, and staffing services.

Media inquiries: 
Global AI Show Media team
Media@globalaishow.com

Abu Dhabi, UAE , January 27, 2026

The Global Blockchain Show Abu Dhabi 2025, which was organized by VAP Group and powered by Times of Blockchain, held from December 10-11, 2025, at Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi, achieved the goal of being a leading platform that influences the worldwide blockchain and Web3 ecosystem in the Middle East region.
The two-day event provided an opportunity for government officials, business executives, investors, developers, and entrepreneurs within the blockchain space to share their thoughts and ideas on blockchain usage, legislation, the development of new technologies, and the implementation of real-world applications of the blockchain. The show attracted 5,000+ participants, and 100+ international keynote speakers were represented in 50+ different sessions and featured over 100+ different companies and startup businesses.
“It’s refreshing to attend a conference like this and engage face-to-face with the audience. Having real conversations, answering questions in person, and experiencing that direct interaction makes the event truly valuable. The atmosphere and engagement are exactly what I look for in a great conference.”  Carl Moon, Entrepreneur, Investor, Speaker, Founder, The Moon Group
Supported by the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau as Destination Partner, the Global Blockchain Show was much more than a standard conference; rather, it provided an environment for the global blockchain community to engage in ongoing and insightful conversations on significant issues related to digital identity, the architecture that underlies Web3, real-world assets (RWA), the integration of AI and blockchain, and the emergence of DeFi, as well as the changing economic impact of the utilization of blockchain around the world.
A Truly Global Platform for Web3 Innovation
The Global Blockchain Show Abu Dhabi saw participants from all corners of the planet participate, including representatives of government, corporate, startup, investment, and tech appeals to Web3 communities. The Global Blockchain Show Abu Dhabi helped reinforce the rise of Abu Dhabi’s position in the world as a center for blockchain innovation and supporting progressive regulations through the direction of a large team of international delegates.
Many of the leaders, founders, CEOs, and technologists who appeared on stage presented their thoughts on how blockchain technology is becoming less of an experimental model and more of an organizational and an institutional and government-funded tool.

High-Impact Thought Leadership and Headline Discussions
Keynote speeches, panel discussions, fireside chats, and spotlight sessions focused on how blockchain technology currently exists and what it could possibly become in the future. The major themes discussed included 
Blockchain moving from the speculative to practical applicationsRoles of governments as supporters of innovative companies & regulatorsEnterprise uses of blockchain for public service delivery, healthcare, supply chain, and financial sectorsConvergence of blockchain and AI technologiesInteroperability, security, scalability and Web3 infrastructureDigital assets, DeFi, and the future of financial systems Web3 gaming on the blockchain, and the typical creators' economy
Headline speakers included:
Nenter Chow, Global CEO, BitMartAkshat Vaidya, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, MaelstromSergej Kunz, Co-Founder, 1inchStephan Lutz, CEO, BitMEXRobin Wingardh, Co-Founder & CEO, WingbitsSami Waittinen, CMO, Trust WalletJason Jiang, Chief Business Officer, CERTIKYat Siu, Co-Founder and Chairman, Animoca BrandsCathy Hackl, Tech & Gaming Executive and CEO, Future DynamicsJanet Adams, COO, SingularityNET
The speeches at the event provided practical advice and lessons that were based on real implementation of blockchain technology in the world today.
“It’s fun, it’s exciting, this event. Last time I was here, it was in Dubai; there was good energy, and there were a lot of people discussing great topics. I would certainly recommend people come and visit the show.” Yat Siu, Co-Founder & Chairman, Animoca Brands.
Strong Institutional and Governmental Involvement
There were many examples of how effective public-private partnerships, compliance-driven innovation, and forward-thinking policy frameworks will enable developers of blockchain technology to engage with institutions, regulators, and government representatives, and vice versa.
The discussions were about how regulatory clarity and supportive ecosystems, as demonstrated by the UAE and Abu Dhabi, will be critical for large-scale blockchain adoption, bringing in international businesses, and creating long-term trust from investors.
Startup Innovation and Exhibition Showcase
The exhibition area of the event served as a large and lively venue for showing technological innovation, showcasing blockchain startup companies, platforms built on Web3, technology companies that support infrastructure and other technologies, and companies that illustrate many of the potential next-generation technologies. The exhibition demonstrated the increasing complexity of the Web3 ecosystem and how it can encompass a variety of products and services, such as enterprise-ready platforms, decentralized finance (DeFi), and blockchain gaming platforms.
Through the startup pitch sessions held during the exhibition, startup companies were given numerous opportunities to showcase their ideas and projects. This gave startup founders a direct line of communication with potential investors, business clients, media, and ecosystem partners. Startups that participated included Epow.io, CereBree, SIXR Cricket, and others.
Meaningful Networking and VIP Engagements
True to its mission, the Global Blockchain Show prioritized high-quality, outcome-driven networking. The quality of the networking sessions and opportunities created during the event facilitated strategic conversations and partnerships through the curation of the sessions created for networking and VIP closed-door meetings, as well as having a VIP dinner for long-term relationship building among industry leaders.
“This was my first year attending, and the space and audience were fantastic. I’d be happy to be involved again next year.” Nenter Chow, Global CEO, BitMart
Driving the Future of Blockchain Forward
As the Global Blockchain Show Abu Dhabi 2025 echoed into history, one clear message emerged: blockchain is here today and will be impacting industries, governance, and global commerce now.
The success of the Global Blockchain Show Abu Dhabi demonstrated how individuals can come together through collaboration and play a significant role in developing discussions that will govern the forthcoming phase of blockchain adoption on a global scale.
The Global Blockchain Show 2026 will continue its efforts to bring the global Web3 ecosystem together and provide substantial, real-world transformative change by moving to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 29-10 June, the next stop on the global blockchain show circuit.
About the Global Blockchain Show
The Global Blockchain Show serves as a premier international platform convening government leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators to advance global collaboration in artificial intelligence.
Powered by VAP Group, the event reinforces the UAE’s position as a leading international hub for emerging technologies, digital transformation, and forward-looking governance.
About VAP Group
VAP Group is a leading AI, blockchain, and gaming consulting powerhouse, delivering advanced AI & Web3 solutions for 12+ years through flagship global events such as the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show. With a strong presence in the UAE, UK, India, and Hong Kong, our 170+ experts keep clients ahead of innovation through strategic PR, marketing, bounty campaigns, and premier global conferences. We also provide advertising, media, and staffing services.

Media inquiries: 
Global Blockchain Show Media team
Media@globalblockchainshow.com

New York, NY, January 27, 2026

Introduction
Bcon Global has announced the launch of its non-custodial crypto payment gateway designed to help businesses accept crypto payments directly to their own wallets. The platform enables cryptocurrency payments without custody, KYC, or access to private keys, providing full control over funds.
Non-Custodial Crypto Payment Infrastructure
Bcon Global operates as a non-custodial crypto payment system, meaning the service does not store user funds or private keys. Merchants connect only a public wallet address, and all cryptocurrency payments are sent directly on-chain to their wallets.
This architecture removes intermediaries from the payment flow and allows businesses to accept crypto payments without relying on banks, custodial processors, or centralized exchanges.
Accept Crypto Payments on Websites and Applications
The crypto payment gateway allows online stores, SaaS platforms, and digital services to accept cryptocurrency payments on websites and applications. Payments can be received in hot wallets, cold storage wallets, or hardware wallets.
Bcon Global supports common wallet solutions such as MetaMask, Trust Wallet, Ledger, Trezor, Exodus, Electrum, and other wallets that provide public blockchain addresses.
API, Invoices, and Payment Tracking
Bcon Global provides a crypto payment API that includes functions for invoice generation, payment status tracking, and balance verification. Businesses can create invoices in fiat currency, while the system automatically calculates the crypto amount using real-time exchange rates.
Webhooks are available to notify merchants about payment confirmations and status changes, enabling automation and integration into existing systems.
E-commerce Integrations
The platform offers ready-to-use crypto payment plugins for e-commerce platforms, including WordPress and OpenCart. These integrations allow merchants to accept crypto payments without complex development or custom infrastructure.
For advanced use cases, developers can integrate directly through the API to build custom cryptocurrency payment flows.
Multi-Blockchain and Stablecoin Support
Bcon Global supports cryptocurrency payments across multiple blockchains, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB Smart Chain, Solana, and TRON. Stablecoin payments are supported on major networks, including USDT, USDC, USDS, and TUSD.
All transactions are transparent and can be verified using public blockchain explorers.
Pricing Model and Fees
The service applies a flat 1% fee only to payments processed through the Bcon Global API. Transactions received directly on the wallet outside the service are not affected. Fees are accounted for separately and do not interfere with wallet balances.
There are no monthly fees, setup costs, or minimum volumes.
Use Cases and Availability
Bcon Global is designed for businesses looking for a cryptocurrency payment processor without custody or KYC. Typical use cases include e-commerce stores, subscription services, freelancers, and developers accepting peer-to-peer crypto payments.
The platform is available globally and supports payments from users worldwide.
About Bcon Global
Bcon Global is a non-custodial crypto payment gateway focused on enabling direct cryptocurrency payments to user-controlled wallets. The service provides infrastructure for accepting crypto payments without intermediaries, custody, or identity verification.
Social Media Links
www.x.com/bcon_global
www.facebook.com/bconglobalpayments 
www.t.me/bconglobal

Hongkong, China, January 23, 2026

RWA Summit Hong Kong will take place on 12–13 February 2026 during Consensus Hong Kong Week, positioning itself as one of the region’s key platforms for dialogue at the intersection of real-world asset (RWA) tokenisation, stablecoins, decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN), and traditional finance (TradFi).

Hosted in Wan Chai, on Hong Kong Island, the two-day summit is designed as a curated, high-level forum for institutional investors, financial institutions, policymakers, and infrastructure providers shaping the next phase of what organisers describe as “real-world finance.”

The event will be held at Causeway Centre (28 Harbour Road, Wan Chai), within walking distance of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), the main venue for Consensus Hong Kong.

Bridging Web3 and institutional finance

As tokenisation moves from experimentation toward institutional adoption, RWA Summit Hong Kong aims to provide a focused environment for substantive discussion, deal-making, and policy alignment. Over two days, the agenda will centre on four core pillars:

Real-World Asset Tokenisation, including tokenised money market funds, bonds, gold, private credit, and real estate

Stablecoins and PayFi, covering USD-, HKD-, and RMB-pegged stablecoins, cross-border settlement, and regulatory frameworks
DePIN, with a focus on tokenising physical infrastructure such as energy networks, telecoms, and computing resources
The Future of Investments, exploring fractional ownership, tokenised access to institutional products, and the role of AI in fintech

According to the organisers, the summit is designed to move beyond high-level narratives, focusing instead on deployable infrastructure, compliance-ready models, and institutional use cases.

Scale, audience, and speakers

The summit is targeting 500+ curated attendees, 50+ speakers, 80+ investors, and more than 2,000 total registrations. The expected audience profile is heavily weighted toward senior decision-makers, with approximately 70% C-level executives and founders and 30% senior management.

Participants are expected from across family offices, venture capital, private equity, wealth management, banks, payment providers, custody and compliance firms, as well as tokenisation and blockchain infrastructure platforms.

The speaker lineup reflects the summit’s strong institutional, technological, and investment focus, bringing together senior leaders from global finance, Web3 infrastructure, venture capital, and legal advisory. Confirmed speakers include:

Mr Joseph H. L. Chan, Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of The Government of Hong Kong (SAR);

Yat Siu, Chairman of Animoca Brands;

Bugra Celik, Director of Digital Assets at HSBC;

Peter Kadish, Managing Director at LynxCap Investments;

Evan Auyang, Group President of Animoca Brands;

Jayendra Jog, Co-Founder of Sei Labs;

Alan Lau, Chief Business Officer at Animoca Brands;

Marcos Chow, Group CIO at HKT;

Neil Tan, Chairman of the Artificial Intelligence Association of Hong Kong;

Sebastien Borget, Co-Founder of Sandbox and SandChain;

Tom Wan, CEO of GBA Dentsu;

Rocky Mui, Partner at Clifford Chance;

Cathal Donnellan, President of NexStox;

Calvin Ng, General Partner at PLUTUS VC;

DiZien Low, Director of Business Development at Polygon Labs;

Gillian Wu, CEO of Mulana Investment Management;

Florian M. Spiegel, Founder & CEO of Evident Capital;

Jeffrey Broer, Venture Advisor at Kohpy Ventures; and Giorgia Pellizzari, Chief Product Officer and Head of Custody at Hex Trust.

TOKENISED HK: private VIP gatherings

Alongside the main summit, invited VIPs will gain access to TOKENISED HK, a series of three closed-door evening gatherings held during Consensus Week. Hosted at a members-only whisky lounge in Tsim Sha Tsui, the invite-only events are capped at 70 attendees, offering a private setting for senior leaders and investors.

About the host and co-host

RWA Summit Hong Kong is hosted by UVECON.VC, a venture studio, advisory firm, and event producer operating in the digital asset and venture capital space since 2018. UVECON.VC is also the producer of WOW Summit and the TOKENISED Global Series, with a focus on institutional-grade Web3 and digital asset ecosystems.

LynxCap joins the RWA Summit as a Co-Host, bringing extensive expertise in real estate-secured debt investment strategies and bond tokenisation. As a Co-Host of the Summit, LynxCap contributes strategic insight and industry knowledge, reinforcing the event’s mission to connect key stakeholders and advance meaningful dialogue around real-world assets and emerging investment opportunities.

Bucharest, Romania, March 1-2, 2026
The countdown has begun for one of the most anticipated crypto events in Europe. Crypto Expo Europe returns to the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bucharest for its 4th edition—bringing together the brightest minds in blockchain, DeFi, and digital assets for two high-impact days of innovation, networking, and opportunity.
Recognized as Eastern Europe’s premier crypto and blockchain conference, Crypto Expo Europe continues to attract top-tier talent, industry-leading platforms, and fast-growing Web3 startups from across the continent and beyond.
🎟️ Book your pass today using the code BTCWIRE30 for 30% discount 
www.cryptoexpoeurope.com/
A Powerhouse of Insight and Innovation
More than just a conference, Crypto Expo Europe is a strategic gathering point for crypto professionals, institutional leaders, tech builders, and investors. With a curated agenda that dives deep into Web3 disruption, AI x blockchain convergence, real-world asset tokenization, and regulation, this event offers real insights—and real opportunities.
What to expect in 2026:
A star-studded speaker lineup from top exchanges, DeFi platforms, and VC funds
80+ exhibitors showcasing the future of digital finance
Investor pitch sessions and exclusive business matchmaking
Over 3,000 attendees from across the crypto ecosystem
From casual networking to high-stakes dealmaking, every moment at Crypto Expo Europe is designed to deliver value.
A Legacy of Excellence
Previous editions have welcomed industry giants such as Binance, Kraken, Crypto.com, 1inch, and Bitget—positioning the event as a trusted hub for blockchain progress in the region. Whether you’re launching a product, raising funds, scouting investments, or simply staying ahead of the curve, Crypto Expo Europe is where the future of crypto happens.
If 2026 is your year to make moves in Web3—this is your starting line.
Who Should Attend?
Web3 Startups seeking visibility, partners, and fundingCorporate Leaders exploring blockchain use casesVCs and Investors looking to discover the next big thingBuilders and Developers ready to showcase tech and talentMedia and Influencers tracking European innovation
Event Details
Radisson Blu Hotel, Bucharest
March 1–2, 2026
www.cryptoexpoeurope.com/
office@cryptoexpoeurope.com
Connect with us on LinkedIn
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Europe’s most dynamic Web3 event.
Join us in Bucharest—where ideas spark, deals close, and the next wave of crypto innovation begins.

London, United Kingdom, January 21, 2026

BlackRock, J.P. Morgan, Mastercard, and policymakers gather at the third annual London Digital Assets Forum to assess institutional adoption under the UK’s new crypto framework
Following the introduction of HMRC’s new Cryptoasset Reporting Framework (CARF) on January 1st, global financial institutions, policymakers, and financial leaders will gather at the 3rd annual London Digital Assets Forum (DAF3) to assess how regulatory clarity is accelerating institutional adoption of digital assets in the UK.
“In 2025, London maintained its position as a financial hub, closing the gap with first-place New York to just one point in the Global Financial Centres Index,” said Victoria Gago, Co-Founder of DAF. “With its history as a centre of financial innovation, and evolving regulatory environment, London is creating a fertile ground for blockchain to thrive within traditional finance. DAF3 will serve as a premier venue to foster cross-sector partnerships that will propel blockchain integration forward in 2026.”

This year, to account for the rapid expansion of institutional interest in blockchain, DAF3 will run over two days, featuring sessions on policy and regulation, tokenisation, DeFi, and how institutions are moving in the digital assets space as industry experts come to London to discuss the outlook for the year ahead.

Speakers at the event include: Nikhil Sharma of BlackRock; Emma Lovett​ of J.P. Morgan; Paul Worthington of Stripe; Dorothea Ysenburg of Mastercard; Tim Grant of Deus X Capital, and Stani Kulechov of Aave.

London’s renewed momentum extends beyond traditional markets into digital assets. In 2025, the FTSE outperformed the S&P, while the UK consolidated its position as Europe’s leading digital asset hub, accounting for more than a third of the region’s blockchain talent and reaching crypto adoption rates of over 24% of adults.
A recent report by Barclays Bank referred to 2026 as the “year of great regulation” as digital assets come under the purview of mainstream finance, with UK tax residents having to declare their crypto returns as capital gains starting January 1st of this year. This standardisation paves the way for increased institutional support for digital assets, with the FCA stating its intention to open a regulatory sandbox for the testing of stablecoin payments. 
Deals focused on enterprise and institutional models account for over 70% of the UK’s digital asset investments. This is a trend that will continue with institutional investors poised to take advantage of regulatory certainty and a fintech-style regulatory sandbox. The Transatlantic Taskforce for Markets of the Future is also promising deeper integration between US and UK capital markets, with its first round of policy recommendations due in March. 

Beyond content, Digital Assets Forum is designed as an executive-level forum focused on practical outcomes. In addition to main-stage discussions, the event features dedicated breakout rooms for smaller, focused sessions, two private rooms reserved for one-to-one meetings, and a separate space for press briefings and media interviews. 

The agenda, audience curation, and meeting formats are structured to enable senior leaders to compare strategies, advance partnerships, and move initiatives forward in a trusted, institution-first environment.
For tickets and information: www.eblockchainconvention.com/digital-assets-forum/ 

About Digital Assets Forum:
For more information and to register for DAF, visit the official website at Digital Assets Forum.
Launched in 2018 in Barcelona, the European Blockchain Convention - organiser of Digital Assets Forum - has quickly become the premier blockchain event in Europe. It connects industry professionals, innovative startups, and leading technology experts. The event provides a platform for sharing insights, fostering collaborations, and exploring the immense potential of blockchain, crypto, and digital assets.
For press passes: Registration here www.share-eu1.hsforms.com/1_DbMgDiYQD6S_58mzDoKhQ2b2y1g

Dubai, UAE, January 21, 2026

FinTech Week Dubai 2026, taking place on 16–17 February 2026 in Dubai, UAE, is pleased to welcome Serhii Zakharov, CEO and Founder of PayDo, as a featured speaker at the event. Known for his visionary leadership and deep expertise in global payments and financial infrastructure, Serhii will share insights on building resilient, compliant, and scalable fintech ecosystems in an increasingly complex global environment.
A Forbes Technology Council Member, Payment Leaders Group Member at The Payment Association, Entrepreneur Contributor, and Web Summit Ambassador, Serhii Zakharov is widely recognised as a leading voice in the global fintech space. His journey began in Ukraine, where an early passion for technology evolved into a mission to simplify financial systems through innovative and unified solutions.
As the Founder and CEO of PayDo, Serhii has led the creation of a multi-jurisdictional fintech group delivering a comprehensive payments ecosystem. PayDo enables businesses to streamline banking, payments, acquiring, transfers, and card services into a single, efficient platform—helping organisations eliminate operational silos and scale internationally with confidence.
Serhii’s leadership capabilities were recognised early in his career. At just 25 years old, he became one of the youngest CEOs to lead an internationally regulated fintech company, demonstrating rare expertise across both advanced technology and global regulatory compliance. This balance between innovation and regulation has remained central to his leadership approach.
In addition to PayDo, Serhii has founded several innovation-led technology ventures, including WhiteTech, KYCB, and OwnCompare, each designed to address critical challenges across fintech infrastructure, compliance, and digital transparency. His entrepreneurial philosophy is grounded in resilience, excellence, and empowering clients to succeed in dynamic markets.
Serhii has successfully guided his organisations through major global disruptions, including Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the war in Ukraine. Throughout these periods, his companies secured reputable licenses in the UK, Canada, and Malta, established principal memberships with SWIFT, VISA, and MasterCard, and built strong Tier 1 correspondent banking relationships—ensuring long-term stability and future-ready growth.
At FinTech Week Dubai 2026, Serhii Zakharov will address key themes around payments innovation, regulatory strategy, and building fintech platforms that withstand global uncertainty. His participation reinforces the event’s focus on “Payments, Security and Beyond”, bringing practical, real-world leadership perspectives to the global fintech community.
FinTech Week Dubai 2026 will be hosted at Radisson Blu, Dubai Deira Creek, bringing together senior decision-makers, innovators, and industry leaders from across the fintech ecosystem.
For more details and registration, visit: www.fintech.peoplevents.uk

Hong Kong, March 11-12, 2026
Amid rising trade tensions, a new global technology order is emerging. For companies operating in Asia, this creates a dual mandate: navigating macroeconomic volatility while staying at the forefront of digital innovation.
Businesses today understand that to thrive, they must adopt new technologies like AI, quantum computing, and crypto. However, the initial phase of unbridled experimentation is ending. The challenge now is how to use them effectively and with measurable ROI.
At Technology for Change Asia (March 11th–12th, Hong Kong), 700 industry and government leaders will meet to pinpoint the solutions that will help businesses prosper.
Organised by Economist Impact, the event moves beyond the hype to address the practical friction points of the digital economy. We will dissect the region’s regulatory patchwork—from China’s central controls to Singapore’s "soft law" frameworks—to determine if a unified standard for governance is possible. The agenda will also examine the operational realities of agentic AI, asking how businesses can transition autonomous agents from testing environments to core workflows without compromising safety.
Finally, we will address the defensive architecture required for businesses 2026. As generative AI lowers the barrier for cyberattacks and quantum computing looms on the horizon, organizations must rebuild their digital immune systems.
Join us in Hong Kong and be part of the change. 
Event website: www.econint.co/3g
Event registration link: www.econint.co/3h
Exclusive 20% off discount code for BTCWire readers: TFC/BTCWire20 (enter code at checkout)

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 20, 2026
Following the successful event at Abu Dhabi, Riyadh is also going to become the “Mecca of Blockchain” as the Global Blockchain Show is making its comeback there. The global event shall take place on the 29-30th of June 2026 at the Malfa hall and will commemorate the attendance of industry stalwarts and thought leaders across the Web3 industry. It will provide an innovative platform where cutting-edge technologies will collide with the worlds of business and finance.
Organized by VAP Group in collaboration with the Times of Blockchain, the Global Blockchain Show is anticipated to gather over 10,000 delegates, in addition to more than 250 speakers, 200 exhibitors, and 300+ media representatives. The event will provide a platform to its delegates through keynote lectures, panels, and workshops, which provide an opportunity to have direct exposure to the latest tools and platforms available in the blockchain world.
Speakers who have previously spoken at the event include a prestigious list of international leaders and blockchain innovators. H.E. Justin Sun, Ambassador and former Permanent Representative of Grenada to the WTO, Founder of TRON, HTX, and Liberland, and Yat Siu, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Animoca Brands, have all taken to the podium. Then there is Ahmed Bin Sulayem, who is the Executive Chairman and CEO of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), and also John Lilic, who is the CEO of Hilbert Group.
Speakers included Dr. Marwan Alzarouni, CEO of Dubai Blockchain Center & CEO of AI at Dubai Economy & Tourism, and Jason Allegrante, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer at Fireblocks. Rachel Conlan, CMO at Binance; Sunny Lu, CEO of VeChain; Abdulla Al Dhaheri, CEO at Abu Dhabi Blockchain Center; and investor Murad Mahmudov have also contributed to this successful event.
The event agenda presents two power-packed days of forward-thinking discussions, expert-led sessions, and networking opportunities designed to explore the evolving landscape of blockchain, Web3, and emerging technologies. Attendees will engage with thought leaders, innovators, and pioneers shaping the next generation of the digital economy.
Key highlights include:
In-depth Panels & Keynotes: Covering topics such as blockchain innovation, scalability, security, and real-world adoption across industries.

Technology Insights: Exploring intersections with artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and the metaverse to understand the next wave of digital transformation.

Ecosystem Development: Examining collaborative strategies that drive global Web3 growth, infrastructure advancement, and sustainable innovation.

Networking Opportunities: Facilitating meaningful connections among policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, and technology enthusiasts.

Across both days, the agenda delivers a comprehensive look at how decentralization, creativity, and technological progress are redefining the future of digital economies worldwide.
As Riyadh transforms itself into a hub for tech advancement, the Global Blockchain Show reinforces the city’s commitment to supporting emerging technologies and fostering global collaboration. The mix of expertise, innovation, and opportunity makes the Global Blockchain Show an unmissable event on the tech calendar.
Media inquiries: 
Press contact: Media@globalblockchainshow.com

Mumbai, India, January 5, 2026
India’s digital transformation journey has moved decisively from vision to execution. As enterprises and government bodies race to modernize operations, adopt AI at scale, and secure increasingly complex digital ecosystems, the need for real-world strategies, peer learning, and trusted platforms has never been greater.
Answering this moment, Exito Media Concepts presents the 43rd Edition of the Digital Transformation Summit India 2026, a flagship, in-person gathering bringing together India’s most influential CIOs, CISOs, and digital leaders to accelerate the country’s shift toward a truly digital-first economy.
Hosted on 4th February 2026 in, Sofitel Mumbai BKC, the summit serves as a high-impact convergence point where strategy meets execution, and innovation turns into measurable enterprise outcomes.

India as a Global Reference Point for Digital Transformation:
As digital transformation agendas mature worldwide, India has emerged as a key reference market for enterprises navigating large-scale digitization. The country’s ability to blend advanced technologies with cost efficiency, rapid execution, and inclusive digital infrastructure has drawn increasing global attention.
The 43rd Digital Transformation Summit India 2026 reflects this international interest, attracting participation from global technology providers, multinational enterprises, and cross- border industry stakeholders seeking to understand how Indian organizations are translating digital vision into execution.
By convening senior leaders from diverse industries and facilitating strategic dialogue grounded in real-world experience, the summit positions India not only as a fast-growing digital economy but as a source of globally relevant transformation insights.
With its continued expansion across international markets, Exito Media Concepts remains committed to fostering knowledge exchange that transcends geographies, connecting decision-

makers, enabling collaboration, and shaping the future of enterprise technology worldwide.

Exito’s Digital Transformation Summit: A Journey of Impact & Leadership:
Over the years, Exito Media Concepts has played a pivotal role in chronicling and accelerating this global digital evolution through its flagship Digital Transformation Summit (DTS) series. What started as a focused platform for technology discussions has grown into a globally recognized forum that convenes the world’s most influential CIOs, CISOs, CTOs, and digital decision-makers.
Now in its 43rd edition, the Digital Transformation Summit stands as a testament to Exito’s long-term commitment to enabling meaningful, outcome-driven dialogue around enterprise technology. Across multiple regions and markets, the DTS platform has consistently evolved in line with enterprise priorities, shifting from digitization and cloud adoption to advanced AI, automation, cyber resilience, and intelligent infrastructure.
Each edition is built on deep market research and real-world enterprise challenges, ensuring that discussions go beyond trends and focus on actionable strategies, peer learning, and measurable business outcomes. The India edition, in particular, has emerged as one of the most impactful chapters of this global journey.

A Platform for India’s Most Influential Digital Leaders:
This edition of the summit brings together senior technology leaders who are actively shaping India’s enterprise technology landscape, including:
Vijayakumar C, Chief Information Security Officer, NSE Clearing LimitedNavin Nathani, Chief Information Officer, Cohizon Life SciencesNarrottam Sharma, Chief Information Officer, Jubilant FoodWorks Ltd.Anil Menon, Chief Information Officer, Lulu Group IndiaRajneesh Garg, CIO & SVP, Allcargo Worldwide Limited

Through keynote sessions, expert panels, and closed-door discussions, these leaders will share firsthand perspectives on driving innovation, managing risk, and delivering business value at scale.

High-Impact Agenda Aligned with Enterprise Priorities
The summit’s content is tightly aligned with where Indian enterprises are investing and transforming the most, including:
AI & Automation at Scale: Agentic AI, human–AI collaboration, and real CX and ITSM outcomesTurning Pilots into Profit: Identifying the AI bets that deliver measurable ROICloud, Data & Digital Modernization: Building unified, scalable, and resilient IT platformsCybersecurity Reinvented: Defending enterprises against AI-driven threats and hybrid work risksModern Infrastructure & Edge: Enabling next-generation workloads with speed and agility

Each session is designed to deliver clarity, not complexity, ensuring delegates leave with strategies they can implement immediately.

Event Overview:
Event: 43rd Digital Transformation Summit – India 2026 Date: 4th February 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Sofitel Mumbai BKC, India Format: Physical Conference

About Exito:
Exito is a leading global B2B events organization, orchestrating more than 240 high-impact conferences annually across international markets. By uniting senior decision-makers, visionary technology leaders, and strategic solution partners, Exito builds platforms that accelerate enterprise growth, stimulate innovation, and shape the future of digital ecosystems.
Anchored in deep market intelligence and industry research, Exito’s experiences enable strategic learning, business alignment, and brand elevation, empowering organizations to convert insights into outcomes and networks into lasting value. With a distinguished legacy of curating outcome- driven engagements, Exito stands as a central force in defining the global conversation on technology, transformation, and the economic structures of tomorrow.

For more information on the Digital Transformation Summit – India 2026, visit:

www.digitransformationsummit.com/india/

Dubai, UAE, 16–17 February, 2026 
The People Events is thrilled to announce the 2nd FinTech Week: Payments, Security &  Beyond, scheduled to take place on 16–17 February 2026 in Dubai. Following a highly  successful edition in Singapore (26–28 February 2025) and the upcoming 3rd edition in  Amsterdam (March 2026), this flagship European edition promises to be a landmark event  in the global fintech calendar. 
With the theme “Payments, Security and Beyond.,” the 2026 edition will bring together  300+ senior decision-makers, 50+ global speakers, and leading fintech innovators who are  actively shaping the next chapter of the financial services industry. 
Attendees can expect a dynamic mix of keynote speeches, high-impact panels, solution  showcases, and networking opportunities — all aimed at addressing the sector’s most  pressing challenges and groundbreaking advancements in digital banking, blockchain, AI,  regtech, payments, cybersecurity, and more. 
“Dubai is not just the fintech gateway to the Middle East — it’s a global crossroads of  innovation and collaboration,” said Ujjwal Choudhary, Production Lead at The People  Events. “Following our successful edition in Singapore and ahead of the 3rd FinTech Week  in Amsterdam, we’re excited to bring this momentum to Dubai for the 2nd edition. With a  focus on Payments, Security, and Beyond, this event will gather top fintech minds,  disruptors, and regulators to shape the future of financial services.” 
The event is expected to attract participants from 30+ countries, including leading financial  institutions, tech startups, regulators, investors, and professional service firms. Whether  you're scaling a fintech startup, transforming a legacy institution, or investing in the next  big solution, FinTech Week Dubai 2026 is the platform where the future of finance is being  built — live and on the ground in one of the world’s fastest-growing fintech hubs. 
Event Details 
Event Name: 2nd FinTech Week: Payments, Security & Beyond 
Dates: 16–17 February 2026 
Location: Radisson Blu, Dubai  
Theme: “Payments, Security and Beyond.” 
Website: www.intech.peoplevents.uk
About The People Events: 
The People Events is a global leader in high-impact B2B conferences and exhibitions. With a  focus on innovation, leadership, and industry transformation, we bring together decision makers and disruptors to create opportunities that shape the future.

January 20, 2025 | 14:30–15:30 | Online
As digital assets become an integral part of the global financial system, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, and institutional adoption are shaping who will define the rules — and capture the value — of the next digital economy.
On January 20, 2025, the Financial Times hosts The Next Phase of Digital Assets, a live digital webinar where FT editors and industry experts will discuss the geopolitical, regulatory, and technological forces transforming digital markets, and what they mean for competitiveness, stability, and trust in 2026 and beyond.
The session brings together policymakers, financial institutions, investors, and technology leaders navigating the future of digital finance.
Event Details:
Date: 20 January 2025
Time: 14:30 – 15:30
Format: Online live webinar
Registration is free: www.digitalassets.live.ft.com

As an independent crypto analyst, I tend to keep a close eye on projects that evolve not through loud promises, but through systematic work that often goes unnoticed by the broader market. UNION is one of those cases, and this is far from the first time I’ve returned to the project in my reviews. The latest update from the team may appear technical at first glance, but it is precisely these seemingly minor developments that often reveal a project’s real trajectory. This time, the focus is on the confirmation and extension of their LEI Code.

For companies operating at the intersection of crypto infrastructure, fintech, and institutional frameworks, an LEI Code is not a formality. The Legal Entity Identifier is a global standard used across international financial reporting, clearing systems, interbank settlements, and interactions with regulated counterparties. Holding an active LEI signals that a company is not merely talking about transparency, but is structurally and legally integrated into the global financial ecosystem.

It is important to stress that extending an LEI is neither a starting point nor a symbolic “preparation for the future.” It is an ongoing confirmation that the entity continues to operate within a compliant legal framework, maintains the validity of its corporate status, and remains eligible for international-level operations. In the case of UNION, this step aligns naturally with the broader strategy behind Union Connected: the gradual construction of a mature, structured, and regulation-aware ecosystem.

Looking at the project’s recent trajectory, this move does not appear isolated. Over the past months, UNION has consistently rolled out product and infrastructure updates—often with minimal marketing, and sometimes without prior announcements at all. From an analytical standpoint, this is one of the healthiest indicators of growth. The team appears to be driven by internal product logic rather than by the need to maintain constant media exposure. In some instances, updates arrive faster than the market can properly digest them.

What stands out even more is that several of these developments seem to outpace the company’s previously communicated internal benchmarks. This suggests a flexible roadmap philosophy, where planning serves as a baseline rather than a rigid constraint. In an industry where timelines are frequently stretched or revised without delivery, this execution-first approach remains relatively uncommon.

Returning to the LEI Code, there is another dimension worth highlighting. Its existence and timely renewal are signals directed primarily not at retail users, but at the institutional environment: potential partners, payment providers, compliance frameworks, and legal-financial intermediaries. It is the language spoken by traditional finance, and UNION appears intent on speaking that language fluently—not rhetorically, but operationally.

If the current pace is sustained, 2026 is likely to be a year in which UNION’s presence becomes increasingly visible across the sector. And if recent behavior is any indication, that visibility will not be driven by headline-grabbing statements, but by consistent execution and structural positioning within a more mature phase of the crypto market.

Tokyo, Japan, April 7-8, 2026
As Japan enters 2026, the country’s Web3 industry is entering a renewed acceleration phase. Traditional financial institutions—including banks, securities firms, and trust companies—are increasing their commitments across areas such as RWA (real-world assets), security tokens, and 24/7 tokenized trading platforms, signaling that institutional involvement is shifting from early experimentation to systematic adoption.
At the same time, Japan is seeing clearer policy support at the government level. Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama has recently stated that she supports introducing crypto asset trading mechanisms into Japan’s traditional market infrastructure—including stock exchanges and commodity exchanges—and referenced the U.S. crypto ETF market as a model. Her comments reflect growing momentum for enabling major digital assets such as BTC and ETH to enter mainstream, regulated investment channels.
Meanwhile, Japan’s crypto tax reform is also progressing. Multiple reports indicate the government is considering lowering the current top tax rate on crypto gains—reported to be as high as 55%—to a level closer to equities, around 20%, alongside improvements to regulatory frameworks and investor protection mechanisms. This would represent a major shift in the market environment and could unlock further innovation.
On the corporate side, DAT (Digital Asset Treasury) strategies are emerging as a notable trend. An increasing number of companies are exploring ways to incorporate digital assets into their balance sheets—either as reserves or as part of broader treasury strategies—driving continued interest and activity across the ecosystem.
At the community level, Japan’s Web3 ecosystem continues to mature, with steady growth in developers, researchers, and startup communities. The industry is gradually moving beyond speculative trading toward real-world applications and commercialization, supported by a strengthening network of builders and entrepreneurs.
Against this broader backdrop, one of Japan’s largest tech summits bridging Web3 and AI—TEAMZ Web3 / AI Summit 2026—has announced major updates: Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama and Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the Democratic Party for the People, are confirmed to speak at the summit as part of the first speaker announcement wave. TEAMZ also confirmed that the summit’s highest partnership tier, Title Sponsor (10 slots total), has officially sold out, signaling strong demand from leading global players.
Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama and Yuichiro Tamaki Confirmed as Speakers
TEAMZ announced that Satsuki Katayama (Finance Minister / Minister for Financial Services) will attend TEAMZ Summit 2026 and deliver a keynote address. Minister Katayama has long been focused on financial system reform and industrial transformation, and her participation is widely seen as a strong signal of deeper policy-industry engagement as Japan accelerates digital asset and financial innovation.

TEAMZ also confirmed the participation of Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the Democratic Party for the People and a Member of the House of Representatives. Tamaki previously served at Japan’s Ministry of Finance (formerly the Ministry of Finance and the old Ministry of Finance structures), and has extensive government experience across the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Financial Services Agency, and the Osaka Regional Taxation Bureau. He is expected to contribute meaningful perspectives on digital finance, industrial policy, and Japan’s global competitiveness.

Web3 × AI Expansion: From “Crypto” to Next-Generation Infrastructure
TEAMZ Summit has long served as a platform connecting global Web3 industry leaders. In 2026, the summit will undergo a major evolution: while continuing to cover core Web3 topics, the event will expand significantly into Artificial Intelligence (AI)—bringing the intersection of the “on-chain economy” and the “AI revolution” into sharper focus.
The theme for this year’s summit is “Tradition Meets Tomorrow.” For the first time, TEAMZ Summit will be held at Happo-en, a historic Japanese garden venue with over 400 years of history, located in Tokyo. Organizers aim to deliver an experience that combines Japanese tradition and aesthetics with cutting-edge technology—allowing participants to explore the forefront of blockchain and AI integration in a setting unlike conventional conference venues.

First Wave of Speakers Announced: Global Web3 and AI Leaders Gather in Tokyo
Beyond the two major political speakers, TEAMZ also announced an expanding roster of international and Japanese industry leaders, including but not limited to:
Subash (Tether), Michael Terpin (Transform Ventures), Kangsu Kim (Matsuo Institute, Inc.)Nick DiSisto (Trust Wallet), Takatoshi Shibayama (Ledger)Genki Oda (JVCEA), Sota Watanabe (Startale Group), Tomohiko Kondo (SBI VC Trade)Ken Kodama (EMURGO), Mai Furukawa (XRPL Japan), Hironori Kunimitsu (FiNANCiE)Vineet Budki (Sigma Capital), Ken Kawai (Anderson Mori & Tomotsune)Dr. Salim (Maidaan AI), Tatsuya Saito (Progmat), So Saito (So & Sato Law Office)Marc Piano (Horizons Global), Anand Iyer (Canonical)
Together, these speakers represent a wide range of leadership across Web3 and AI, covering major infrastructure, regulation, venture capital, legal frameworks, and enterprise adoption.
Title Sponsor Category Sold Out: XRP, Cardano, SBI VCT, Startale, EMURGO and More Join Top Partnership Tier

TEAMZ confirmed that the summit’s highest partnership level, Title Sponsor (10 slots), has sold out ahead of the event. Global industry leaders including Binance, XRP, Cardano, SBI VCT, Startale, EMURGO, AAC, and Envo have officially joined TEAMZ Summit 2026 as top-tier partners.
In addition to Title Sponsors, sponsorship and exhibition opportunities are continuing to attract strong participation. Web3 and AI companies from around the world will gather at Happo-en in Tokyo to showcase new technologies, explore ecosystem collaboration, and build global partnerships.
For information regarding sponsoring companies, please refer to the official website: www.teamz.co.jp/2026/participants 
Global Reach Strengthened by 100+ Media, Community, VC Partners, and Supporters

TEAMZ Summit 2026 is supported by an international network of over 100 partners, including media organizations, community partners, venture capital firms, and ecosystem supporters. Summit announcements and discussions will be distributed in real time across partner channels, maximizing global visibility and accelerating business matchmaking opportunities for participating companies and projects.
Media partners include: Cointelegraph Global, CoinPost, bitcoin.com, Cointelegraph Japan, BlockBeats, Foresight News, Crypto Times, PANews, Jinse Finance, BlockTempo, Iolite, Pacific Meta, and others.
Community partners include: PALacademy, Akindo, Hakuhodo Key3, Progmat, Shibuya Web3 University, CIC Tokyo, Tokyo Fintech, and more.
VC and investor partners include: Draper Associates, Dragonfly, Blockchain Capital, Wintermute, Hyperithm, NGC Ventures, SevenX Ventures, and more, reflecting growing global investment participation.
For information regarding media partners, community partners, VC partners, and supporting organizations, please refer to the official website: www.teamz.co.jp/2026/participants
Continued Endorsement from Japan’s Three Major Industry Associations

TEAMZ also confirmed continued support in 2026 from Japan’s three leading industry associations representing the country’s Web3 and crypto asset sector:
Japan Cryptoasset Business Association (JCBA)Japan Virtual and Crypto Assets Exchange Association (JVCEA)Japan Blockchain Association (JBA)
Their endorsement provides a strong foundation for the summit’s professionalism, compliance orientation, and industry credibility.
TEAMZ Web3 / AI Summit 2026 — Event Overview
Dates: April 7 (Tue) – April 8 (Wed), 2026Venue: Happo-en, Minato City, TokyoTheme: Tradition Meets TomorrowSpeakers: 130+Expected Attendance: 10,000+Official Website: www.web3.teamz.co.jp/Tickets: www.web3.teamz.co.jp/en/tickets-list-2026

About TEAMZ
TEAMZ is a global accelerator focused on Web3 and AI. Through event production, marketing support, corporate partnership building, and ecosystem development, TEAMZ helps strengthen Japan’s innovation environment. Its flagship event, TEAMZ Web3 / AI Summit, welcomes participants from over 50 countries and serves as an international business platform connecting startups, investors, enterprises, and government stakeholders.

Frankfurt, Germany, April 23, 2026

The conference will take place in Frankfurt, bringing together senior leaders from banks, payments institutions, and financial services to address the rapid evolution of real-time payments and fraud prevention. As instant payment adoption accelerates across global markets, the summit will provide a critical platform to examine how institutions can balance speed, security, compliance, and customer trust.
The summit will focus on real-world strategies for managing fraud and risk in always-on payment environments. Key discussions will explore real-time transaction monitoring, AI-driven fraud detection, payment orchestration, regulatory compliance, and cross-border instant payment frameworks. Attendees will gain practical insights into how financial institutions are strengthening controls while delivering seamless, frictionless payment experiences.
Through a combination of strategic keynote sessions, expert panel discussions, and in-depth case studies, the program will showcase how banks and payment providers are leveraging advanced analytics, machine learning, and intelligent automation to combat fraud, reduce false positives, and ensure operational resilience. Topics will also cover collaboration between banks, fintechs, regulators, and technology providers to build secure and scalable instant payment ecosystems. 
In addition to thought leadership content, the summit will offer curated networking opportunities, enabling meaningful peer-to-peer discussions and one-to-one meetings with industry experts and solution leaders. The event is designed for decision-makers seeking actionable insights and proven approaches to navigating the future of instant payments and fraud management.
Instant Payments & Fraud Management Summit 
Date: 23 April 2026
Venue: Frankfurt, Germany
Details: www.kinfos.events/ipseu/

Frankfurt, Germany, April 23, 2026
The conference will be held on April 23, 2026, in Frankfurt, Germany, bringing together senior decision-makers from banking, payments, and the wider financial services ecosystem. The summit will serve as a strategic forum to examine how next-generation, Agentic AI is redefining operational workflows, decision intelligence, and customer engagement across financial institutions.
As financial organizations move beyond experimentation toward enterprise-scale deployment, the summit will focus on real-world applications of autonomous agents, generative intelligence, workflow orchestration, and fully digitized service models. Attendees will gain practical insights into leveraging AI to improve efficiency, resilience, and innovation while meeting evolving regulatory expectations.
The agenda will address critical areas such as risk scoring automation, adaptive fraud controls, and AI-driven decisioning, alongside discussions on data readiness, governance frameworks, and internal change management required for sustainable AI adoption. Through strategic keynote sessions, expert panel discussions, live technology showcases, and in-depth case studies, participants will explore measurable business outcomes achieved through intelligent automation initiatives. 
Designed to foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration, the summit will also offer curated networking opportunities, connecting banks, regulators, fintech innovators, AI research labs, and technology providers. These interactions aim to accelerate partnerships and knowledge exchange among stakeholders shaping the future of intelligent financial infrastructure in Europe.
Agentic AI & Automation in Finance Summit
Date: 23 April 2026
Venue: Frankfurt, Germany
Website: www.kinfos.events/aieu/

Atlanta, Georgia, March 16–17, 2026
The conference will take place in Atlanta, Georgia, on March 16–17, 2026, bringing together senior leaders from banks, insurers, credit unions, and asset managers to explore how Agentic AI and intelligent automation are reshaping financial services at scale.
Hosted by Kinfos Events, the summit has emerged as a leading platform for executives, innovators, and technology leaders to examine the shift from generative AI to autonomous, agent-driven systems and what this transformation means for operations, risk, governance, and customer experience across financial institutions.
Day 1 will feature a half-day, sponsor-led pre-event workshop, offering hands-on insights into real-world AI and automation tools, implementations, and live demonstrations.
Day 2 will deliver the main conference, featuring keynote presentations, expert panels, and case studies focused on enterprise AI strategy, agentic workflows, intelligent automation, data governance, risk and compliance, LLMOps, fraud intelligence, and operational efficiency. With Atlanta recognized as a major U.S. hub for financial services, payments, and AI innovation, the city provides an ideal backdrop for this forward-looking industry gathering.
Event Details
Event: Agentic AI & Automation in Finance Summit
Dates: March 16–17, 2026
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Website: www.kinfos.events/aiusa
Registration is now open. Senior executives from financial institutions, along with technology and automation leaders, are encouraged to secure their place early.
Register here: www.kinfos.events/aiusa/register/

Atlanta, Georgia, March 16–17, 2026
The conference will take place in Atlanta, Georgia, from March 16–17, 2026, bringing together global leaders from across the financial ecosystem to examine how instant payments are redefining the future of banking, commerce, and digital finance.
Hosted by Kinfos Events, the Instant Payments & Beyond Summit has established itself as a premier platform for executives, policymakers, innovators, and technology providers to explore the accelerating shift toward real-time money movement and its impact on the financial services landscape. 
Day 1 will focus on scaling real-time payments in the U.S., including FedNow and RTP readiness, multi-rail strategies, fraud prevention, and next-generation treasury operations.
Day 2 will explore the next phase of payments, including innovation, monetization, embedded and cross-border payments, and digital money models.
With Atlanta recognized as a major U.S. hub for financial technology, the city provides a powerful backdrop for this forward-looking industry gathering. 
Event Details
Event: Instant Payments & Beyond Summit
Dates: March 16–17, 2026
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Website: www.kinfos.events/ipsus/