Crypto

Visa weighs $2.5 billion bid for Fireblocks

Crypto custody firm Fireblocks has denied reports that Visa is in late-stage talks to acquire it for about $2.5 billion, The Block reported on Oct. 22. Axios earlier reported the talks, citing multiple sources. Fireblocks said the report was new to it and not true at this time. A Visa spokesperson said it does not comment on rumours or speculation. Fireblocks was valued at $8 billion in a 2022 funding round.

Finance

Financial sector hacking spreads, delays gain support for digital asset tax postponement

A string of hacking incidents in South Korea’s financial sector has led to confirmed personal data leaks at savings banks and mutual finance groups, prompting authorities to step up inspections and security requirements. Banks are moving to raise cybersecurity spending and expand fraud prevention systems using AI. Market volatility and a steep stock selloff also drew a policy response. Political debate intensified over postponing digital asset taxation and regulating exchange shareholders.