WAO ART #248

The European Central Bank (ECB) is moving forward with its digital euro initiative after an investigation stage. It aims to provide a digital alternative to physical cash, accessible to citizens and companies through regulated financial institutions. The preparation stage starts in November 2023.

Bitcoin lending is gaining popularity as borrowers use their Bitcoin holdings as collateral for loans, offering lower interest rates and credit access to those who may not qualify otherwise. Platforms like immediate-alpha.org and traditional financial institutions are entering the Bitcoin lending.

Canada has announced a $739 million investment in its Earth observation (EO) systems over the next 15 years. The funding will go towards the Radarsat+ program, which aims to develop new satellites to replace the existing Radarsat satellites. These satellites have been crucial in monitoring Canada's.

China and Argentina have agreed to extend their currency swap line to $6.5 billion, up from the initial $5 billion agreed earlier this year. The extension was signed after a meeting between the Central Bank heads of both countries. Argentina had almost depleted its $5 billion swap line with China.

Decentralized crypto derivatives exchange SynFutures has raised $22 million in a Series B funding round led by Pantera Capital, with participation from Susquehanna International Group and HashKey Capital. The company is launching its automated market maker (AMM) called Oyster.

itel has released its latest smartphone, the itel A70, in Nigeria. The device offers a perfect blend of affordability and luxury, with features such as a massive storage capacity of up to 256GB, a 6.6-inch dynamic bar display, a robust 5000mAh battery, and a 13MP AI camera.

New Zealand's C-130J-30 Super Hercules flight simulator is being assembled in Montreal, Canada, before being transported to Florida for further fittings. The simulator is part of the country's $38 million project to modernize the Royal New Zealand Air Force's C-130H fleet.