Saylor pitches Bitcoin-backed banking system to nation-states

At the Bitcoin MENA 2025 conference in Abu Dhabi, Michael Saylor announced that major US banks are transitioning from excluding Bitcoin to actively developing products based on it, indicating a significant shift in the financial landscape. Saylor noted that these banks are now approaching him directly for collaboration.

Mubadala Capital has partnered with Kaio to explore tokenized access to private market strategies, reflecting a growing interest in integrating blockchain technology with traditional investment avenues in Abu Dhabi. This initiative highlights the increasing acceptance of on-chain real-world assets within the financial sector.

Tether's USDT stablecoin has been designated as an Accepted Fiat-Referenced Token by Abu Dhabi's ADGM, allowing its use across multiple blockchains including Aptos, Celo, Cosmos, and others. This regulatory recognition expands Tether's previous approvals and enhances its operational capabilities in the region.

Tether and Circle have received significant regulatory approvals in Abu Dhabi, with Tether's stablecoin recognized as an Accepted Reference Token (ARFT) and Circle obtaining a Financial Services Provider (FSP) license. These developments mark a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency sector in the UAE, reflecting the region's commitment to fostering a regulated digital asset environment.

The Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has officially added Tether's USDT to its approved token list, allowing the stablecoin to be utilized across major blockchains. This decision reflects ADGM's ongoing commitment to fostering a regulated cryptocurrency environment in the region.

Michael Saylor announced that Strategy will not issue preferred equity in Japan, allowing Metaplanet a 12-month head start in its financial strategies. This decision comes as Metaplanet plans to raise approximately $135 million through the issuance of Class B perpetual shares to expand its Bitcoin reserves.

Circle has received a license in Abu Dhabi, allowing it to function as a licensed Money Services Provider as the UAE advances its crypto regulatory framework. This approval is part of a broader initiative to enhance the country's position in the global cryptocurrency market.

Discussions around the cryptocurrency market structure bill (CMSB) have intensified following a private meeting among Democrats to review a compromise draft proposed by Republicans. This comes at a time when Michael Saylor has reportedly increased his Bitcoin holdings, coinciding with expectations of a potential 25 basis points rate cut in the near future.