Hong Kong authorities have initiated a pilot project integrating Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) with the city’s upcoming central bank digital currency (CBDC). This trial aims to assess seamless CBDC interactions across jurisdictions and infrastructure layers, leveraging CCIP’s cross-chain message delivery.

The collaboration reflects a broader trend toward programmable, borderless digital currency systems. Stakeholders say the integration addresses a critical challenge: enabling secure, real-time data and value transfers between CBDCs and decentralized finance systems.

Chainlink’s involvement elevates Hong Kong’s prospects as a regional fintech hub. Its CCIP infrastructure is expected to provide reliable connectivity between e-HKD, wholesale CBDC systems, tokenized assets, and global counterparts under projects like Project Ensemble and mBridge.

Industry observers note that successful cross-border CBDC interoperability could significantly improve payment efficiency. By enabling programmable and automated settlement across multiple ledgers, the trial could create a model for international digital currency networks.

The pilot marks another step in the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s multi-phase CBDC strategy. Phase two continues exploring programmability and tokenization use cases, now with advanced cross-chain support—a key milestone for future deployment readiness.

Netcapital, a fintech company listed on Nasdaq, has announced the acquisition of Mixie, a no-code Web3 gaming platform designed for tokenized game creation. The deal was made through Zelgor, a company in Netcapital’s investment portfolio, though the purchase amount remains undisclosed.

Mixie’s platform enables users to build and customize blockchain-based games without technical skills, incorporating Web3 elements like token ownership and rewards. Netcapital stated that this acquisition aligns with its broader goal of merging traditional finance tools with decentralized ecosystems.

Following the announcement, Netcapital’s stock surged by over 16%, reflecting investor enthusiasm. The company’s shares are now up more than 48% year to date, signaling strong market confidence in its strategic direction.

Mixie’s unique approach focuses on empowering communities and game developers through a token-based framework and growth accelerator tools. Netcapital emphasized that the merger would help expand its reach in blockchain-based financial services.

The deal comes amid a wave of crypto-focused mergers and acquisitions in 2024, with market consolidation intensifying as regulatory clarity improves and investor appetite for digital assets rebounds.

An 18-month investigation by the Australian Federal Police, assisted by the Queensland Joint Organised Crime Taskforce, led to the arrest of four individuals linked to an alleged $190 million money-laundering network. The accused reportedly operated through a Queensland-based security company that utilized fake businesses, couriers, and cryptocurrency to process illicit funds.

Authorities have frozen A$21 million worth of assets, including 17 properties, vehicles, and bank accounts, as part of the ongoing criminal assets seizure operation.

A central figure in the scheme is 32-year-old Aleksander Alincic from Heathwood, who allegedly funnelled A$9.5 million through a sales-promotion company he controlled via dead drops, bank accounts, and crypto exchanges. Gold Coast couple Daniel and Nicole Ware, directors of the implicated security firm, are accused of laundering over A$10 million. Brisbane businessman Peter Nolan reportedly passed A$6.4 million through his classic car dealership.

Investigators say the operation used a complex web of transactions—including shell companies and flights to transport cash—before converting it into cryptocurrency. During raids, law enforcement confiscated crypto wallets, cash, encrypted devices, and business records.

Detectives described the investigation as targeting a “sophisticated operation” that converted criminal profit into tangible assets like property, luxury vehicles, and digital currency. Authorities caution that further arrests remain possible as investigations into the origins and overseas transfers of the funds continue.