Last Week Recap: Updates on Interactive Brokers, Russian Central Bank, Bybit, Nomura, Ethereum and Trust Wallet

Fazzaco continued extensively covering the latest trends in forex, crypto, fintech, and prop trading last week. The below is the selected highlights of last week.

Interactive Brokers Seeks US National Trust Bank Charter Amid Fintech Banking Push

Interactive Brokers (NASDAQ: IBKR) has applied for a US national trust bank charter, becoming the latest financial services firm to pursue a banking license as fintech companies increasingly seek to consolidate regulatory oversight.

Russian Central Bank Cites Bitcoin Mining as a Supporting Factor for the Ruble

The Russian Central Bank has publicly acknowledged that domestic Bitcoin mining activity is contributing to the stability of the ruble, signaling a notable shift from its previously hardline position on cryptocurrencies.

Bybit to Restrict Services for Japanese Residents Amid Regulatory Pressure

Bybit will begin restricting access to its platform for residents of Japan from 2026, citing the need to comply with the country’s financial regulations.

Nomura Opens Larger Wealth Management Office in Dubai's DIFC

Nomura has opened new premises for its International Wealth Management business in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), marking the next phase of its expansion in the Middle East and underscoring its long-term commitment to the region.

Ethereum Sets 2026 Timeline for Major Protocol Upgrades

Ethereum's core development team has finalized the technical scope and tentative launch windows for two protocol upgrades planned for 2026, signaling a move toward a more predictable, twice-yearly release schedule. The roadmap centers on the Glamsterdam upgrade in the first half of the year and the Hegota upgrade in the second, both aimed at addressing long-standing scalability and infrastructure challenges.

Trust Wallet Chrome Extension Breach Triggers $7 Million Loss, Compensation Promised​

Trust Wallet, a self-custodial cryptocurrency wallet affiliated with Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, has confirmed a security breach that led to the theft of at least $7 million in digital assets. Zhao, widely known as CZ, stated that all affected users will be fully compensated.