Home » investments
Tag:

investments

Economy

Alinea Invest Partners with Zerohash to Offer Integrated Crypto Trading in its Platform

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Alinea Invest Integrates Cryptocurrency Trading, Meeting Demand From Younger Investors

Table of Contents

New York, NY – February 12, 2026 – alinea Invest is now offering Cryptocurrency trading directly within its existing investment platform. The move, announced Today, is a direct response to growing demand from a generation of investors who prefer a unified approach to managing their portfolios, according to company officials.

The Rise of integrated Investing

The partnership with digital asset infrastructure provider Zerohash allows Alinea Invest users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies alongside conventional assets like stocks and Exchange Traded Funds (etfs). This integration eliminates the need for investors to juggle multiple platforms and apps, streamlining the investment process. According to a recent study by eMarketer,64% of Gen Z and Millennial investors express interest in using a single platform for all their investment needs.

Addressing Investor Preferences

“Younger investors want access to Cryptocurrency without unnecessary complexity,” said Anam Lakhani, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Alinea Invest. “They don’t desire a seperate application or a entirely different user experience simply to invest in digital currencies. They want Cryptocurrency included seamlessly into the same place they manage their long-term investments, supported by clear guidance and solid context.” Initial user engagement figures suggest that the addition of Cryptocurrency trading is the platform’s most successful product launch in the past year.

Zerohash Provides Critical Infrastructure

Zerohash provides the regulated and institutional-grade infrastructure essential for enabling Cryptocurrency trading within the Alinea Invest platform. This allows the company to quickly introduce Cryptocurrency capabilities while maintaining regulatory compliance and avoiding the notable expense associated with building similar systems in-house. This approach underscores a larger trend: the convergence of traditional finance (TradFi) and the Cryptocurrency sector.

Industry Challenges and the Need for Investor Protection

while integrated Cryptocurrency access is expanding, concerns regarding investor safety remain paramount. A recent report by the federal Trade Commission shows that Cryptocurrency-related scams have resulted in over $2.6 billion in losses in 2023 alone. This has led to increased scrutiny and calls for stronger consumer protection measures. The industry faces the challenge of replicating the safeguards present in Traditional Finance,such as dispute resolution mechanisms and clear avenues for recourse.

feature Traditional Finance Cryptocurrency (Current State)
Regulatory Oversight Highly Regulated Varying Levels of Regulation
Dispute Resolution Established Mechanisms Limited or Non-Existent
Investor Protection Strong developing

The Future of Finance: Convergence and Accessibility

Edward Woodford, Founder and CEO of Zerohash, emphasized the accelerating convergence of Traditional Finance and cryptocurrency. “Crypto adoption is increasingly occurring through established financial brands, with platforms like Alinea catering to a new generation of investors by treating Crypto as a standard component of a diversified portfolio,” he stated. This indicates a broader shift towards acceptance and integration, rather than segmentation, of Cryptocurrency into the financial mainstream.

Are you considering adding Cryptocurrency to your investment portfolio? What steps would you take to ensure your investments are secure?

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

What are the key benefits for investors in the Alinea Invest and Zerohash partnership?

Alinea Invest Partners with Zerohash to Offer Integrated Crypto Trading in it’s Platform

Alinea Invest,a rapidly growing investment platform,has announced a strategic partnership with Zerohash,a leading provider of secure and scalable crypto trading infrastructure. This collaboration aims to seamlessly integrate cryptocurrency trading directly within the Alinea Invest platform, offering users a unified experience for managing both traditional and digital assets. The move signals a significant step towards bridging the gap between conventional finance and the burgeoning world of decentralized finance (DeFi).

What Does This Partnership Mean for Investors?

The integration promises a more streamlined investment process. Currently, investors often navigate multiple platforms – one for stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, and another for cryptocurrencies. This partnership eliminates that friction, allowing users to:

* Consolidate Portfolio Views: See your entire investment portfolio, including crypto holdings, in a single dashboard.

* Simplified Tax Reporting: A unified platform simplifies the often-complex process of tracking and reporting capital gains and losses across different asset classes.

* Diversification Opportunities: Easily diversify your investment portfolio with exposure to a wider range of assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other popular cryptocurrencies.

* Enhanced Security: leverage Zerohash’s robust security infrastructure to protect your digital assets.

Zerohash: The Technology powering the Integration

Zerohash specializes in providing institutional-grade crypto trading solutions. Their technology is built around several key principles:

* Non-Custodial Solutions: Zerohash prioritizes non-custodial solutions, meaning Alinea Invest users retain control of their private keys, minimizing counterparty risk.

* high-Frequency Trading Capabilities: The infrastructure supports high-frequency trading, ensuring efficient order execution even during periods of high market volatility.

* regulatory Compliance: Zerohash operates with a strong focus on regulatory compliance, adhering to evolving standards in the crypto space. This is crucial for attracting institutional investors and ensuring long-term sustainability.

* Scalability: The platform is designed to handle a large volume of transactions, accommodating the growing demand for crypto trading.

How the Integration Will Work: A Technical Overview

The integration will be phased, starting with support for major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). Alinea invest will utilize Zerohash’s Request Programming Interfaces (APIs) to connect its platform to Zerohash’s trading engine.

Here’s a breakdown of the anticipated process:

  1. Account Linking: Users will link their existing crypto wallets (or create new ones) to their Alinea Invest accounts.
  2. Fund Transfer: Users will transfer funds from their bank accounts to Alinea Invest,which will then be used to purchase cryptocurrencies through Zerohash.
  3. Trading Interface: A dedicated crypto trading interface will be integrated into the Alinea Invest platform, allowing users to buy, sell, and manage their crypto holdings.
  4. Real-Time Data: Real-time market data from Zerohash will be displayed within the Alinea Invest platform, providing users with up-to-date information on price movements and trading volumes.

Benefits for Alinea Invest

This partnership isn’t just beneficial for investors; it also strengthens Alinea Invest’s position in the competitive investment landscape.

* Attracting a New demographic: Integrating crypto trading will attract a younger, tech-savvy demographic interested in digital assets.

* Increased Platform Engagement: Offering a wider range of investment options will encourage users to spend more time on the platform.

* Revenue Diversification: Alinea Invest can generate revenue through trading fees and other crypto-related services.

* Innovation leadership: The partnership positions Alinea Invest as an innovator in the investment industry, embracing emerging technologies and trends.

Security Considerations & Risk Management

Both Alinea Invest and Zerohash are emphasizing security as a top priority. Key security measures include:

* Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Mandatory MFA for all user accounts.

* Cold Storage: A significant portion of crypto assets will be stored in cold storage (offline) to protect against hacking attempts.

* Regular Security Audits: Autonomous security audits will be conducted regularly to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

* Insurance Coverage: Exploring options for insurance coverage to protect against potential losses due to security breaches.

It’s significant to remember that cryptocurrency investments are inherently risky. Market volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and the potential for fraud are all factors that investors should consider. Alinea Invest will provide educational resources to help users understand these risks and make informed investment decisions.

The Future of Integrated Investment Platforms

The alinea Invest and Zerohash partnership is indicative of a broader trend towards integrated investment platforms.As the lines between traditional finance and DeFi continue to blur, we can expect to see more companies offering similar services. This evolution will likely lead to:

* Increased Adoption of Cryptocurrency: Making crypto trading more accessible will drive wider adoption of digital assets.

* Greater Financial Inclusion: Integrated platforms can provide access to investment opportunities for a broader range of individuals.

* More Elegant Investment Tools: We can expect to

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Economy

EU Strives to Keep Pace with US and China in a Subsidy‑Rich Landscape

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Macron Calls For European Innovation Model, Musk Disputes Subsidy Claims

Table of Contents


Brussels – A debate over government support for technological innovation has erupted between French President Emmanuel Macron and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, highlighting differing philosophies on fostering competition and economic growth. Macron is advocating for a European approach that mirrors the American model of public-private partnerships,while Musk contends that his companies,Tesla and SpaceX,are comparatively under-subsidized.

Macron asserted that the United States benefits from a significant combination of private and public funding, notably in crucial sectors like energy and space exploration. He specifically pointed to Starlink, musk’s satellite internet constellation, as an exmaple of innovation fueled by significant American taxpayer investment. This commentary came amid broader discussions about the european Union’s efforts to bolster its economy in a globally competitive surroundings.

the Subsidy debate

The French President stated that Musk has benefitted greatly from billions of dollars in funding from American taxpayers. He suggested that this level of support has been instrumental in the success and competitiveness of companies like Tesla and SpaceX. He believes that European nations should emulate this approach to remain competitive with the United States and China.

Musk swiftly responded via his social media platform X, arguing that European competitors receive far greater public funding. He claimed that the cumulative public funds received by Tesla and SpaceX represent only approximately 1% of the companies’ total value. He then contrasted this with American and European aerospace firms, alleging that their public funding exceeds 100% of their value.

According to a recent report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS),federal support for the space industry totaled $49.6 billion in fiscal year 2023. This underscores the substantial financial commitment the U.S. government makes to technological advancement. A 2024 study by the European Environment Agency (EEA) shows that EU member states invested over €60 billion in research and advancement in 2022, though the distribution across sectors and companies varies considerably.

A Comparative Look at Public Funding

The following table provides a simplified comparison of reported funding levels, noting that precise figures are often difficult to ascertain due to complex accounting and varying definitions of “subsidy.”

Company/Sector Reported Public Funding (Estimate) Total Company Value (Estimate – February 2026) public Funding as % of Value
Tesla & SpaceX (Combined) $4.96 Billion $1.5 Trillion ~0.33%
Major U.S. Aerospace Companies (Combined) >$150 Billion $200 billion >75%
Major European Aerospace Companies (Combined) >$200 Billion $180 Billion >111%

Implications for the Future

This exchange highlights the ongoing debate about the appropriate role of government in fostering innovation. Proponents of substantial public funding argue that it is essential for supporting high-risk,long-term projects that private capital may be unwilling to finance. Critics contend that excessive subsidies can distort markets, stifle competition, and lead to inefficiencies.

The differing perspectives of Macron and Musk also raise questions about the future of transatlantic economic relations. Europe is striving to strengthen its technological independence, while the United States is keen to maintain its leadership position. Finding a balance between competition and cooperation will be crucial for both sides.

What role should governments play in fostering innovation, and how can we ensure a level playing field for companies across different regions? Do you believe that Elon Musk’s companies are truly less subsidized than their competitors, or is this a matter of perception?

Share this article and join the conversation!

What measures is the EU taking to match US and China subsidies in key industrial sectors?

EU Strives to Keep pace with US and China in a Subsidy‑Rich Landscape

The global economic playing field is increasingly defined by state aid and strategic subsidies. For years, the United States and China have aggressively deployed financial incentives to bolster domestic industries, especially in sectors deemed critical for future competitiveness – think semiconductors, green technologies, and electric vehicle (EV) production.Now, the European Union is responding, attempting to recalibrate its own approach to industrial policy and level the playing field. This isn’t simply about matching spending; it’s about a essential shift in how the EU views its role in fostering innovation and securing its economic future.

The US and China: Setting the Pace

The US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law in 2022, marked a turning point. Its $369 billion in climate and energy provisions, including substantial tax credits for clean energy manufacturing and deployment, instantly sparked concern in Europe. The fear? That US subsidies would lure investment away from the EU, creating a competitive disadvantage.

China’s approach, while less reliant on headline-grabbing legislation like the IRA, is equally impactful. Through a complex web of state-backed funds, preferential loans, and direct grants, China has systematically supported its key industries. This has been particularly evident in the semiconductor industry, where massive investment is aimed at achieving self-sufficiency and global leadership. The “Made in China 2025” initiative,though less publicly emphasized now,continues to shape industrial strategy.

EU’s Response: A New Framework for State Aid

Historically, the EU has been more cautious about state aid, prioritizing a level playing field across member states and adhering to strict competition rules. However, the urgency of the situation – coupled with geopolitical pressures – has forced a re-evaluation.

The EU’s response centers around several key initiatives:

* The Green Deal Industrial Plan: Unveiled in February 2023, this plan aims to boost clean tech manufacturing in Europe. It proposes easing state aid rules to allow for faster approval of projects,particularly in strategic sectors.

* The Net Zero Industry Act: Proposed in March 2023, this legislation sets targets for domestic manufacturing capacity in net-zero technologies, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries.

* The Chips Act: Adopted in September 2023, this act aims to double the EU’s share of global semiconductor production to 20% by 2030. It provides €43 billion in public and private investment.

* relaxation of State Aid Rules: The European commission has temporarily relaxed its state aid rules to allow member states to provide more generous support to companies investing in green technologies. This includes measures like tax credits, direct grants, and loan guarantees.

Key Sectors in Focus

Several sectors are at the forefront of this subsidy race:

* Semiconductors: the EU is heavily reliant on imports for advanced semiconductors. The Chips Act is designed to address this vulnerability and build a more resilient supply chain. Intel’s planned fab in Magdeburg, Germany, and TSMC’s investment in a facility in Dresden are prime examples of projects being incentivized.

* Batteries: Europe aims to become a global leader in battery technology, crucial for the EV transition. Northvolt’s gigafactory in Sweden and ACC’s planned facilities in France and Germany are benefiting from EU and national support.

* Hydrogen: The EU sees hydrogen as a key component of its decarbonization strategy. Subsidies are being directed towards the development of hydrogen production facilities and infrastructure.

* Renewable Energy: The IRA’s incentives for renewable energy have prompted the EU to accelerate its own investments in wind, solar, and other clean energy sources.

Challenges and Criticisms

The EU’s shift towards a more subsidy-driven approach isn’t without its challenges:

* Internal Market Fragmentation: Relaxing state aid rules could lead to a fragmented internal market, with member states competing against each other for investment.

* Bureaucracy and Approval Times: Despite efforts to streamline the process, obtaining approval for state aid can still be slow and cumbersome.

* Risk of Distortion: Subsidies can distort competition and create inefficiencies.

* Trade Tensions: the US and other countries have raised concerns about the potential for EU subsidies to violate World trade Institution (WTO) rules. The EU argues its measures are justified by climate concerns and strategic autonomy.

Case Study: The SK On Battery Plant in Hungary

The Hungarian government’s substantial financial incentives – estimated at over €700 million – played a crucial role in securing a major investment from SK On, a South Korean battery manufacturer. This illustrates how aggressive national subsidies, within the framework of EU rules, can attract notable foreign investment. However, it also highlights the potential for a “race to the bottom,” where countries compete by offering ever-larger incentives.

The Future Landscape

The subsidy landscape is likely to remain highly competitive for the foreseeable future. The EU’s success in keeping pace with the US and China will depend on its ability to:

* Streamline approval processes: Reducing bureaucratic hurdles is essential to attract investment quickly.

* Foster collaboration: Greater coordination between member states is needed to avoid fragmentation and maximize the impact of subsidies.

* Focus on innovation: Subsidies should be targeted towards projects that promote genuine innovation and long-term competitiveness.

* Address trade concerns: The EU needs to engage constructively with its trading partners to address concerns about the potential for trade distortions.

The EU’s journey

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Economy

“After paying mortgages and communities, they leave me 2,600 euros a month clean”

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Spain’s Housing Market: Young Investor Builds €2.6K/Month Passive Income with ‘BRRRR’ Strategy

Madrid, Spain – As Spain’s housing prices hit record highs – reaching €2,650 per square meter in January, according to Idealista – one young investor is proving that building wealth through property is still achievable, and even remarkably lucrative. His story is quickly gaining traction as a beacon of hope for those seeking financial freedom in a challenging market, and is being widely discussed as breaking news for those following the Spanish property scene.

Ángel, the investor, has built a portfolio of seven properties generating substantial passive income.

From Saving to Seven Properties: A Real Estate Journey

Ángel, who began his career at 19, didn’t jump straight into property investment. He embodies the principle of “save first, invest second.” “Before being an investor, you have to be a saver. I have always spent less than I had,” he explains. This disciplined approach allowed him to accumulate €30,000 by the age of 25, funds he initially earmarked for a dream car. However, a chance encounter with Carlos Galán, a real estate investor and host of the “Real Estate Freedom” podcast, dramatically altered his plans.

Inspired by Galán’s insights, Ángel redirected his savings into his first property: a small apartment near Valladolid, purchased for €47,500 with a 2% interest personal loan. While the initial cash flow was modest – around €20 per month – it was enough to overcome his apprehension and validate the potential of real estate investing. He sold that first property five years later for €82,000, retaining the low-interest loan, a scenario almost impossible to replicate in today’s market.

Unlocking the Power of BRRRR: Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat

Ángel’s second investment proved to be a turning point. He secured a property in Valladolid for €60,000 (down from an initial asking price of €75,000) that was tied up in a bank debt. A key valuation at €105,000 allowed him to purchase it outright. This deal introduced him to the BRRRR method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) – a strategy that has become the cornerstone of his success.

The BRRRR method, increasingly popular among investors seeking to scale their portfolios, involves acquiring undervalued properties, renovating them, renting them out, and then refinancing to recoup the initial investment. Ángel has mastered this technique, often achieving a remarkable 19% rental yield. He now averages a €3,500 outlay per property, and even profits during the refinancing process.

A Growing Portfolio and a Path to Financial Freedom

Today, Ángel boasts a portfolio of six income-generating properties, with a seventh on the horizon. His current net cash flow stands at €2,500-€2,600 per month, projected to rise to €3,100 with the addition of the seventh property. His goal? To either leave his traditional job or significantly reduce his hours, prioritizing time and freedom over a conventional career path.

This story isn’t just about one man’s success; it’s a testament to the power of strategic investing and the enduring appeal of real estate as a wealth-building tool. It’s also a timely reminder that opportunities still exist, even in a seemingly overheated market, for those willing to do their research and embrace innovative strategies. The Spanish property market, while challenging, continues to offer potential for savvy investors, particularly those focused on value-add opportunities and efficient financing.

For more insights into real estate investing in Spain, and strategies for building passive income, explore the resources available on Archyde.com.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Economy

Africa FDI Drops 38% in 2025: Investment Trends

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Africa’s FDI Plunge: Resilience in the South Masks a Looming Investment Crisis

A staggering $59 billion – that’s how much foreign direct investment (FDI) flowed into Africa in 2025, a 38% drop from the previous year. This isn’t just a dip; it’s a stark warning signal, revealed in UNCTAD’s latest “Global Investment Trends Monitor,” indicating a potentially prolonged period of diminished international confidence in the continent’s economic prospects. While global FDI saw a 14% increase, Africa bucked the trend, highlighting a growing divergence in investment patterns and raising critical questions about the future of economic development across the region.

North Africa’s Dramatic Downturn: Beyond the Megaproject Effect

The most significant decline occurred in North Africa, where FDI plummeted by a massive 67%, from $51 billion in 2024 to just $17 billion in 2025. This dramatic fall isn’t a reflection of inherent weakness, but rather the absence of a singular, massive project: the Ras El-Hekma megaproject in Egypt. This $35 billion urban complex, spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company, artificially inflated 2024’s figures. The reliance on such large-scale, one-off investments exposes a vulnerability in the region’s ability to attract sustained, diversified FDI. Without a pipeline of similar projects, North Africa faces a challenging road to recovery.

Sub-Saharan Africa: A Relative Bright Spot, But Cracks are Showing

In contrast to the North, sub-Saharan Africa demonstrated relative resilience, attracting $42 billion in FDI – a 6% decrease. However, this stability masks significant disparities. South Africa, for example, experienced negative net inflows of $6 billion due to a major divestment by Anglo American PLC, selling its stake in Valterra Platinum Ltd. This highlights the risk of capital flight and the impact of large corporate decisions on national FDI figures. Conversely, Mozambique shone with an 80% increase in investment, fueled by the resurgence of liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects. This demonstrates the potential of specific sectors – particularly energy – to drive FDI growth, but also the concentration risk associated with relying on a single industry.

The Rise of Greenfield Investments: A Positive Trend

Amidst the overall decline, a positive trend emerged: an increase in greenfield projects across the continent. Africa saw 639 new industrial projects announced in 2025, a 5% rise compared to 2024, driven by activity in Egypt and Ivory Coast. These projects, involving the construction of new facilities, represent long-term commitment and job creation, offering a more sustainable path to economic growth than portfolio investments or mergers and acquisitions. However, the sustainability of this trend remains uncertain, dependent on continued political stability and favorable investment climates.

Looking Ahead: Geopolitical Risks and Uncertain Prospects for 2026

UNCTAD’s outlook for 2026 remains cautious. While easing inflation and lower borrowing costs in major economies could stimulate global FDI flows, geopolitical tensions, policy uncertainty, and global economic fragmentation pose significant headwinds. Africa, particularly, is vulnerable to these external shocks. The continent’s increasing debt burden, coupled with political instability in key regions, could further deter investors. Furthermore, the ongoing fragmentation of the global economy could lead to a decline in cross-border transactions, impacting FDI inflows.

The future of foreign direct investment in Africa hinges on addressing these challenges. Diversifying economies, improving governance, fostering regional integration, and creating a more predictable regulatory environment are crucial steps. Countries that prioritize these reforms will be best positioned to attract the capital needed to drive sustainable economic development. The recent surge in LNG investments in Mozambique offers a blueprint, but it’s a blueprint that needs to be replicated across diverse sectors and regions.

What strategies do you believe are most critical for attracting FDI to Africa in the face of these global uncertainties? Share your insights in the comments below!


0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
@2025 - All Right Reserved.

Hosted by ByoHosting - Most Recommendeed Webhhosting. For complains, abuse, advertising contact:
[email protected]

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.