One of the hottest – and also one of the most controversial – things in  the crypto currency environment are so-called  Initial Coin Offerings or ICOs. ICOs, which employ the use of crypto currencies, have become a popular means of fundraising for start-ups in recent months. The increasing need of blockchain technology and the lack of regulation allows them to raise money quickly in return to so-called tokens (also described as digital certificates). This hype has driven a steep rise in this sector’s market value, reaching a high of $177 bn.

Openlink, the global leader in trading, treasury and risk management solutions for the energy, commodities, corporate and financial services industries, has announced that Rich Grossi has been promoted to CEO. John O’Malley has transitioned to the role of Executive Chairman of the Board, where he will continue to support the strategic direction of Openlink Financial.  

Amman, Jordan: ICS Financial Systems Limited, the global software and services provider for banks and financial institutions, announced that AL-Thiqa Islamic Bank a newly established bank in Iraq, has selected the multi-awards winning system ICS BANKS ISLAMIC System.

Corlytics, a global innovator in regulatory risk analytics, has announced the appointment of Thomson Reuters’ head of regulatory intelligence, Stacey English, who will further strengthen the board of Corlytics Solutions.

Today First Data, a global leader in commerce-enabling technology, and Valley National Bank, the wholly-owned subsidiary of Valley National Bancorp (NYSE:VLY), announced that they have entered into a long-term agreement to provide secure commerce solutions for the bank’s merchant clients.