Market
The rise of neo-banking and its role in banking the underbanked
Emerging nations are the fastest growing regions in crypto adoption and the growing presence of neo-banks plays the biggest role in this growth. Could these innovative platforms be the solution to financial inequalities and the lack of adequate banking services for over one billion people?
As Satoshi once remarked in his now-stopped social messages, “Bitcoin would be convenient for people who don’t have a credit card or don’t want to use the cards they have”. Emerging nations whether in Africa, Latin America or South East Asia could resonate more truly to this statement than others. Over the past half-decade, the growth of neo-banks in developing countries has caused a revolutionary change in how the populous interact in their economies and a radical change in their financial systems.
Crucially, the billions of unbanked and underbanked are finally integrated into the global financial systems, despite the lack of efficient banking structures in their respective nations.
This article will break down how cryptocurrency is benefiting the unbanked (and underbanked) and the role neo-banks play in providing financial services to countries with little hope of having a stable banking infrastructure. The piece further looks at the role developing countries play in growing the crypto ecosystem and various technological advancements in the industry as a result of rapid adoption across Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia regions.
Financial Inequality in Underserved Economies
According to World Bank reports, over 1.2 billion people across the world are either unbanked or underbanked. Developing countries remain the most affected nations with over 50% of the population having little to no access to solid banking infrastructure or basic financial services such as loaning facilities, savings accounts, etc.
The advent of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies sparked a drastic change in the global financial system, providing previously unavailable financial systems to citizens of these nations. The emergence of this decentralized industry is becoming a force in the global financial landscape, redefining traditional currency, transactions, and financial systems.
Cryptocurrencies, powered by blockchain technology and cryptographic principles, are opening up the financial world to developing nations, allowing previously unbanked and underbanked citizens to participate in the financial ecosystem. These assets have opened up new avenues to transact and store value by giving everyone access to fast and low-cost digital cash that can be spent anywhere.
The Rise of Neo-Banks and Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
The global financial crisis in 2008 brought rise to several innovations in the industry, majorly the growth of neo-banking. Neo-banks refer to financial technology firms that are redefining how banking services are delivered to consumers, from seamless digital experiences to lower transaction fees and accessibility via smartphones, etc.
The most prominent form of neo-banking arose in Kenya, with the launch of M-Pesa, a mobile-based financial service that allowed anyone with a SIM card and a phone to send and receive money. Over the years, such innovations have evolved into formidable players in the financial sector, as they revolutionize traditional banking and financial services.
Recently, decentralized finance (DeFi) apps have come to the fore, providing digital and decentralized alternatives that offer personalised user-centric services that resonate with crypto-savvy consumers. Notwithstanding, crypto exchange apps have sprouted rapidly offering anyone across the world an opportunity to access cryptocurrencies directly on their smartphones. These apps ensure advanced security measures, and seamless integration of fintech solutions, setting them apart from traditional finance services.
As such, developed countries have been able to join the global financial systems, signifying a paradigm shift in the transformative power of crypto for the modern consumer.
Crypto Exchanges May Challenge The Status Quo
As alluded to, crypto exchanges are diversifying to wider markets, moving from simple on-ramp and off-ramping business models to becoming neo-banks and challenging the traditional finance system – global, low-cost and very accessible to the unbanked. Crypto adoption is becoming more prominent for the 1.2 billion and financial services and products are more sophisticated and accessible. Could this pose a threat to the traditional banking systems?
The jury is still out on that but the solutions provided by these “decentralized neo-banks” are having a great effect on emerging nations’ economies – financial inclusion, low-cost remittance fees, and fast and secure transactions have driven the growth of crypto in these economies.
Boxwind, a digital asset exchange platform set to launch later in the year, brings these solutions to the 1.2 billion who need such services. From trading to lending, saving, trading, and a channel to affordably transfer crypto cryptocurrencies into and around emerging economies. The exchange is designed with advanced functionalities for new and experienced investors, providing spot and derivatives trading of over 300+ digital assets, on-ramp and off-ramp solutions, staking services, borrowing/lending and much more.
The platform also features its brainchild, PIP World, a service that aims to empower users via Edutech programs, gamified trading, and AI-powered gaming. PIP Trader, one of the gamefied and educative platforms, allows users to team up, battle in trading games, and earn rewards on an AI-powered game.
Looking Ahead
Chainalysis’ 2023 Crypto Report showed that over 40% of the world’s cryptocurrency users reside in lower-middle-income countries (LMICs), with the number growing every year. This impressive growth is heavily influenced by CEXs and the vast services they offer. Regulated crypto exchanges could be the main driver of sustained adoption rates by facilitating neo-banking services to the underbanked.
Crypto adoption in emerging economies presents a unique opportunity to empower individuals, enhance skills and financial literacy, and provide solutions to financial inequalities. For the industry to really grow, however, several things must be put in place including setting up secure platforms, regulatory compliance, users’ funds protection, easily accessible platforms, and educating the masses on the technology.
Market
Will an Upside Break Spark a Surge?
Ethereum price is struggling below the $3,500 resistance while Bitcoin gains. ETH is consolidating above $3,150 and might aim for an upside break.
- Ethereum failed to gain pace for a close above $3,400 and $3,450.
- The price is trading above $3,300 and the 100-hourly Simple Moving Average.
- There is a key contracting triangle forming with resistance at $3,355 on the hourly chart of ETH/USD (data feed via Kraken).
- The pair could start another increase if it clears the $3,400 resistance level.
Ethereum Price Aims Key Upside Break
Ethereum price started a decent upward move from the $3,200 level but upsides were limited compared to Bitcoin. ETH cleared the $3,250 resistance to move into a short-term bullish zone.
The bulls were able to push the price above the $3,300 resistance zone. Besides, there was a clear move above the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $3,445 swing high to the $3,203 low. However, the bears are still active below $3,400.
Ethereum price is now trading above $3,300 and the 100-hourly Simple Moving Average. On the upside, the price seems to be facing hurdles near the $3,350 level or the 61.8% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $3,445 swing high to the $3,203 low.
There is also a key contracting triangle forming with resistance at $3,355 on the hourly chart of ETH/USD. The first major resistance is near the $3,400 level. The main resistance is now forming near $3,445.
A clear move above the $3,445 resistance might send the price toward the $3,550 resistance. An upside break above the $3,550 resistance might call for more gains in the coming sessions. In the stated case, Ether could rise toward the $3,650 resistance zone or even $3,720 in the near term.
Another Decline In ETH?
If Ethereum fails to clear the $3,400 resistance, it could start another decline. Initial support on the downside is near the $3,300 level. The first major support sits near the $3,250.
A clear move below the $3,250 support might push the price toward the $3,200 support. Any more losses might send the price toward the $3,120 support level in the near term. The next key support sits at $3,050.
Technical Indicators
Hourly MACD – The MACD for ETH/USD is losing momentum in the bullish zone.
Hourly RSI – The RSI for ETH/USD is now above the 50 zone.
Major Support Level – $3,200
Major Resistance Level – $3,400
Market
What Fueled Its New High
Bitcoin, the leading cryptocurrency, has once again captured the spotlight after rallying to a new all-time high of $109,699.
With the $110,000 milestone in sight, Bitcoin’s recent price action is being closely monitored by investors. A combination of sustained market conditions and renewed institutional interest has positioned the crypto king for potentially historic gains.
Bitcoin Investors Are Bullish
Market sentiment has shown a significant shift in recent weeks, particularly through the lens of Coin Days Destroyed (CDD). Late 2024 saw a period of elevated CDD, signaling heavy activity among Bitcoin long-term holders (LTHs) cashing out during the rally.
However, January has brought a notable cooldown in CDD, indicating reduced selling pressure from these key investors. This trend suggests that most profit-taking among LTHs is complete, paving the way for a more stable price trajectory.
Low CDD is often interpreted as a positive sign for Bitcoin’s recovery. It reflects conviction among long-term investors, who are holding onto their coins rather than selling into the market. Such investor behavior typically builds confidence and supports upward price momentum, providing a favorable backdrop for Bitcoin’s push to $110,000 and beyond.
Bitcoin’s macro momentum has also gained strength, supported by the accumulation activity of smaller investors, often referred to as “Shrimps” and “Crabs.” These holders, who possess less than 10 BTC, collectively added over 25,600 BTC worth approximately $2.71 billion. This surge in accumulation is proof of growing confidence among retail investors.
The Shrimp-to-Crab balance spike indicates a broad base of support for Bitcoin’s price. This demographic’s increasing participation reflects long-term bullish sentiment. Their buying activity often stabilizes the market, acting as a cushion during corrections and amplifying price rallies during bullish phases.
BTC Price Prediction: Onto New High
Bitcoin’s recent all-time high of $109,699 was fueled by strong market fundamentals and strong investor sentiment. If momentum continues, the cryptocurrency could breach the $110,000 mark, cementing its position as a high-performing asset in 2025. This milestone would likely attract additional buying interest, reinforcing Bitcoin’s bullish outlook.
To secure its ascent, Bitcoin must establish $105,000 as a strong support level. Currently trading around $105,562, the crypto king appears well-positioned to achieve this. A successful defense of this support zone could propel Bitcoin to new highs, unlocking further upside potential.
However, failure to maintain $105,000 as support could lead to a retracement toward $100,000. Such a decline would negate Bitcoin’s recent gains and dampen short-term bullish sentiment, raising the risk of prolonged consolidation before a renewed rally.
Disclaimer
In line with the Trust Project guidelines, this price analysis article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. BeInCrypto is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice. Always conduct your own research and consult with a professional before making any financial decisions. Please note that our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers have been updated.
Market
XRP Price Sets the Stage for More Gains: Bulls Hold the Momentum
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