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We’re excited to share some great news with our UK community and GBP users! 

Starting today, Tap has reintroduced GBP bank transfer deposits for all users. This makes it simpler than ever to fund your account and dive into the world of crypto.

What’s New?

✅ GBP Bank Transfers Are Back!
After a brief pause, UK users can once again deposit funds seamlessly via bank transfers. This highly requested feature is now live, giving you more flexibility to top up your Tap account instantly. 

✅ A Boost for A Large Part Of Our User Base
UK customers have always been a driving force behind Tap’s growth, accounting for a large part of the platform activity. With bank transfers reinstated, we anticipate even greater engagement, trading, and spending—helping to fuel momentum across the entire Tap ecosystem.

✅ Frictionless Crypto Access
Combine your GBP deposits with instant crypto conversions and spend globally using your Tap Mastercard. This is all part of our mission to seamlessly bridge traditional finance and blockchain innovation.

Why This Matters

In recent months, UK users were limited to card deposits. Now, with bank transfers back, we’re unlocking:

• Higher deposit limits for serious traders.
• Reduced fees compared to card transactions.
• Faster funding to take advantage of crypto market opportunities.

‍Words from Our CEO

‍Arsen Torosian, CEO of Tap, shared:
“Reinstating GBP bank transfers reignites a key growth engine for Tap. UK users are our most active community, and this upgrade empowers them to move faster in today’s surging crypto markets."

What’s Next?

• Update your Tap app to start using GBP bank transfers today.
• Share the news! Tag a friend who’s been waiting for this feature.
• Stay tuned for more upgrades as we roll out new tools to enhance your financial freedom.

Join the Conversation!

Follow us on X (Twitter) and LinkedIn for real-time updates.
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Onyxcoin (XCN), previously known as Chain (CHN), marks a major leap in blockchain infrastructure technology. Since its rebranding in March 2022, the protocol has gained traction as a leading enterprise blockchain platform. In a nutshell: it provides cloud-based solutions that enable companies to create and deploy financial services through private blockchain networks. Let’s explore this.

What is XCN?

XCN is the cryptocurrency powering the Onyx Protocol, offering both utility and governance, while the Onyx Protocol is designed to tackle key challenges in financial settlements. 

The Onyx Protocol is a versatile blockchain infrastructure designed to connect independent networks under shared standards, ensuring smooth interoperability. By separating asset control from ledger synchronisation, it delivers both security and flexibility to users.

Participants can issue assets using customisable "issuance programs," managed by "control programs" that enable the creation of advanced smart contracts. Network security is upheld by a federation of "block signers" to prevent forks, while a single "block generator" ensures efficient block creation.

Governance is managed through the Onyx DAO on Ethereum, with Onyxcoin (XCN) acting as the ecosystem's utility and governance token. XCN powers premium services, funds network upgrades, and enables token holders to influence the protocol’s direction.

Founded in 2014 with support from leading venture capital firms and partnerships with institutions like Nasdaq and Citigroup, the platform has evolved into an independent, reliable and advanced blockchain solution.

Key Features:

• Cloud-based blockchain infrastructure for enterprises
• Customisable tools for asset creation
• Smart contracts powered by control programs
• Integrated DAO governance for user participation
• Premium and standard service tiers

Technical and fundamental analysis

Market fundamentals

XCN’s tokenomics include a maximum supply of 48.47 billion tokens, with around 65% currently in circulation. Strategic allocations include 15 billion tokens for the foundation and 10 billion for the DAO, with monthly releases of 200,000,000 XCN per month, to maintain a controlled market supply.

Technical framework

The protocol’s architecture enables:

• Multiple independent blockchain networks operating simultaneously
• Secure asset control based on the principle of least authority
• Block validation by designated signers
• Efficient block creation via a single block generator

Trading volumes, price volatility, and sentiment indices for XCN

Trading volume

The current trading volumes of XCN provide key insights into market activity and investor interest. Steady or increasing volumes typically indicate sustained engagement, while sharp fluctuations could signify speculative trading or reaction to news events. For XCN, trading activity has shown variability, with spikes aligning with announcements or broader market trends.

Price volatility

Price volatility is another critical metric for understanding XCN's performance. While moderate volatility can attract traders seeking profit opportunities, excessive swings may deter risk-averse investors. Recently, XCN has experienced a mix of stability and rapid price shifts, largely influenced by macroeconomic factors and evolving sentiment within the cryptocurrency market.

Sentiment indices

Sentiment indices, derived from social media trends, news coverage, and community forums, offer a snapshot of market perception. Positive sentiment has often correlated with upgrades to the Onyx Protocol or advancements in the ecosystem, while negative sentiment has emerged during periods of uncertainty or market-wide downturns.

Together, these factors—trading volumes, price volatility, and sentiment—illustrate the complex dynamics shaping XCN’s market presence and potential for return on investment. For investors and traders, monitoring these indicators can provide valuable insights into potential opportunities and risks, though they should be evaluated alongside broader market conditions and fundamental analyses.

Short-term price predictions (1-3 years)

In the following sections, we’ll take a look at both short-term and long-term price predictions, considering both bullish and bearish market scenarios. For reference, at the time of writing XCN was trading at $0.01236 (see later price here).  

Bullish scenario

Analysis suggests that several positive catalysts could drive XCN's growth in the near term:

• - Enterprise adoption

• Predicted range: $0.005 - $0.01
• Key driver: Increased business partnerships and platform integration
• Potential catalyst: Growth in private blockchain network adoption

• - Technological development

• Predicted range: $0.006 - $0.012
• Focus areas: Transaction speed improvements and fee optimisation
• Impact: Enhanced platform capabilities could attract more users

• - Institutional investment

• Predicted range: $0.007 - $0.015
• Driver: Growing institutional interest in cryptocurrency
• Catalyst: Potential market expansion and improved regulatory clarity

Bearish scenario

On the flip side, here are the bearish predictions: 

• - Regulatory concerns

• Predicted range: $0.001 - $0.0015
• Risk factor: Increased government oversight
• Impact: Possible operational limitations

• - Competitive pressures

• Predicted range: $0.0012 - $0.0017
• Challenge: Market saturation from similar projects
• Risk: Potential loss of market share

Long-term price predictions (3-5 years)

Bullish outlook

Long-term positive scenarios suggest significant growth potential:

• - Enterprise integration

• Predicted range: $0.02 - $0.05
• Driver: Widespread adoption of Onyx Protocol's technology
• Catalyst: Integration into mainstream financial systems

• - Technology evolution

• Predicted range: $0.03 - $0.06
• Focus: Platform maturity and ecosystem development
• Impact: Enhanced competitive advantage through innovation

• - Market growth

• Predicted range: $0.04 - $0.08
• Driver: Overall cryptocurrency market expansion
• Catalyst: Increased mainstream acceptance and use

Bearish outlook

However, long-term challenges could present significant headwinds:

• Market sentiment

• Predicted range: $0.0005 - $0.001
• Risk factor: Extended crypto market downturn
• Impact: Reduced investor confidence 
• - Competition

• Predicted range: $0.0008 - $0.0015
• Challenge: Emergence of superior technological solutions
• Risk: Diminished market relevance

These predictions account for various market scenarios and factors, keeping in mind the natural volatility of crypto markets. The ranges provided highlight potential outcomes depending on market trends and the progress of the project. Please note that this content is speculative and not financial advice - it should not be construed as such.

Conclusion

Onyxcoin (XCN) presents a range of possible price trajectories, from potential growth through enterprise adoption and technological advancement to more conservative estimates reflecting market challenges. While bullish predictions suggest possible growth to $0.08 by 2030, bearish scenarios indicate potential downside risks. 

As with any investment in digital assets, thorough research is essential. Readers should carefully evaluate their risk tolerance and consult financial advisors before making investment decisions, as market conditions can change rapidly in the volatile crypto sector. Keep an eye on the XCN page within the Tap app to keep updated on price movements.

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The cryptocurrency market can be a maze of projects, platforms, and partnerships. Among these, XCN (Onyxcoin) has emerged as a notable digital asset that often sparks discussion – and sometimes confusion – in the crypto community.

This guide cuts through the complexity to deliver a clear picture of XCN. We'll examine what makes this cryptocurrency unique, tackle common misconceptions about its ownership (particularly regarding JP Morgan), and explore its potential value to the greater blockchain ecosystem.

Whether you're researching XCN for investment purposes or simply want to understand its role in the crypto ecosystem, this article will provide you with straightforward, accurate information to guide your decisions.

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What Is Onyx Protocol (XCN)?

Onyx Protocol is a cloud-based blockchain infrastructure enabling companies to create private blockchain networks for enhanced financial services. Unlike public blockchains, Onyx provides a closed, secure environment for issuing, storing, and transferring digital assets, minimising risks like security breaches and transaction delays. 

It caters to enterprise needs through products such as the Remote Procedure Call API (RPC/API) and Sequence, a blockchain-based accounting service. These services offer both standard and premium tiers, with premium features accessible via XCN payments.

The protocol’s core design addresses key financial settlement challenges, including reducing fees, increasing transparency, and streamlining transaction settlements, and uses innovative features like "issuance programs" for asset creation and "control programs" for managing assets securely. Block signers safeguard the network, while block generators ensure efficient block creation.

The Onyx Protocol is governed by a Decentralised Autonomous Organisation (DAO), where XCN token holders participate in decision-making by staking their tokens. This means that XCN acts as both a utility and governance token, offering voting rights, discounts on premium services, and a means to pay for Onyx Cloud and Sequence fees.

Founded in 2014 by venture capitalist Adam Ludwin, Onyx was initially backed by major firms like Nasdaq and Citigroup, raising over $40 million. After being acquired by Stellar’s Lightyear Corp. in 2018, it later became a privately held corporation in 2021. 

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With a maximum supply of 48.4 billion tokens, XCN powers the ecosystem and incentivises community-driven growth through its transparent, decentralised governance model.

XCN’s infrastructure

XCN's technological foundation rests on three main pillars:

• A scalable proof-of-stake blockchain that prioritises transaction speed and energy efficiency
• Smart contract functionality that enables complex financial operations and decentralised applications
• Cross-chain compatibility for seamless interaction with other blockchain networks

Although the platform uses advanced security protocols it still manages to maintain user accessibility, making it suitable for both individual and institutional users.

How to purchase and stake XCN

XCN tokens can be bought through several major cryptocurrency exchanges, including Tap. In order to participate in the staking process, users will need to acquire the tokens and complete the following: 

1. Set up a compatible wallet that supports XCN staking
2. Participate in the staking program through the official platform
3. Earn rewards based on the amount staked and duration of participation

The minimum staking requirements and reward rates are designed to encourage long-term holder participation. For more detailed explanations please see the official project’s instructions.

Leadership and development behind XCN

The Onyx blockchain network was founded in 2014 by venture capitalist Adam Ludwin with support from major venture capital firms, aiming to modernise financial systems. The team launched Chain Core after raising over $40 million through strategic partnerships with Nasdaq, Orange, Capital One, and Citigroup. 

In 2018, the platform was sold to Lightyear Corp., part of the Stellar Development Foundation, before transitioning in 2021 to operate as a privately held corporation with a new board, shareholders, and offices. In March 2022, CHN was rebranded to XCN spurring positive price growth.

Today, the XCN project is led by a team of seasoned blockchain developers and fintech experts specialising in smart contracts, protocol optimisation, and financial infrastructure. They are known to actively engage with the community via Discord, Twitter, and governance forums, maintaining transparency through roadmaps, progress reports, and AMAs. 

Alongside the strong development team is a decentralised governance model, allowing XCN token holders to shape the platform’s future, voting on critical proposals to ensure collective growth and innovation.

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XCN price prediction

Onyxcoin (XCN) has gained attention for its role in DeFi and its governance function within the Onyx Protocol. While price predictions vary, with some analysts anticipating steady growth as adoption of the platform increases, it is worth keeping an eye on the key factors influencing its price, notably market demand, advancements within the Onyx ecosystem, broader crypto market trends, and regulatory developments. 

However, given the volatility of the cryptocurrency market, it’s best to approach these XCN price predictions carefully and conduct thorough research before making any financial decisions.

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Clearing the air: JP Morgan's Kinexys (formerly Onyx) does not own OnyxCoin (XCN)

In early November 2024, JP Morgan rebranded its blockchain unit from Onyx to Kinexys, sparking conversations about distinguishing between unrelated entities in the blockchain world. Below we break down the key differences between OnyxCoin (XCN) and JP Morgan's Kinexys to clear up any confusion for investors and industry professionals.

Let the record state: OnyxCoin (XCN) is a separate cryptocurrency project operating independently of JP Morgan and its blockchain initiatives. To avoid potential confusion:

• XCN is not affiliated with JP Morgan or any traditional banking institution
• The cryptocurrency project operates independently of JP Morgan's blockchain platforms
• Any similarity in naming to JP Morgan's former Onyx unit is coincidental

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Looking to the future

XCN is a prime example of blockchain technology's evolution and the growing maturity of digital assets. As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to expand, XCN’s innovative framework and governance structure show how decentralised systems can adapt to meet new challenges. 

With blockchain advancing rapidly, platforms like XCN highlight the potential for transformation in the digital economy. Whether you’re drawn to the technical details or the broader implications, staying informed about these developments is key to understanding this ever-changing space.

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We’ve all been here: you land that dream job or get a nice raise, and suddenly your old budget feels unnecessarily restrictive. A few premium subscriptions here, some fancy dinners there, maybe a nicer apartment – before you know it, your higher income somehow feels tighter than before. 

Welcome to lifestyle creep, the subtle way our spending habits expand to match (or exceed) our growing income. It’s real, and it’s out there. Here’s how you can fight back. 

Why it happens

Lifestyle creep isn't just about splurging. Often, it's a series of small, seemingly reasonable upgrades. That €15 lunch delivery doesn't feel extravagant when you're having a hard day, and those €20 fitness classes are justified as a worthwhile investment in your health. 

The problem isn't any single expense, it's how these small changes compound over time, transforming from luxuries into what feel like necessities. And those small expenses can add up dramatically: an extra €50 per week on conveniences means €2,600 per year that could have gone toward retirement, a dream vacation, or your emergency fund. That’s a chunk of change in the end. 

Breaking the cycle

1. Find your motivation

Before making changes, identify why you want to control your spending. Maybe you want to switch careers, start a business, or build an emergency fund. Having a concrete “why” makes it easier to resist those immediate gratifications.

2. Audit your joy

Review your recent expenses and honestly assess which ones truly enhance your life. That streaming service you barely use? The subscription box that sits unopened? These are easy cuts. But don't stop at the obvious – examine everything, including your "necessary" expenses. Sometimes what we think we need is just habit in disguise.

Start doing this weekly, eventually moving up to monthly, until your inner accountant is completely satisfied with where your money is going. The idea here isn’t to strip all joy from your life, it’s merely to streamline it. 

3. Create friction

Make impulse spending harder:

• Remove saved payment information from shopping sites and phone settings
• Unsubscribe from marketing emails
• Establish a 48-hour waiting period for non-essential purchases

4. Address your triggers

Our spending habits are heavily influenced by our environment. Consider:

• Unfollowing social media accounts that trigger spending urges
• Finding free or low-cost alternatives to expensive social activities
• Being honest with friends about your financial situation and goals
• Planning social activities that don't revolve around spending

5. Regular check-ins

Schedule monthly "money dates" with yourself. Review your spending, celebrate wins, and adjust your strategy. Make it enjoyable – pour yourself a drink and put on your favourite record. This isn't about punishment, it's about alignment with your goals.

The mindset shift

Remember that reducing expenses isn't about deprivation, it's about choice and control. You might find that some lifestyle upgrades are worth keeping because they genuinely improve your quality of life. Others might be easy to let go once you realise they're not adding that much value.

The goal isn't to return to living like a college student. Instead, aim to be intentional about which upgrades you keep and which you can live without. This mindful approach to spending helps steer your money toward things that truly matter to you, rather than disappearing into a series of forgettable purchases.

By taking control of lifestyle creep, you're not just saving money – you're buying yourself options, flexibility, and peace of mind. And those are luxuries worth keeping.

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Ever heard of the "Santa Claus Rally"? Coined by Yale Hirsch and borrowed from traditional market terminology, this phenomenon describes a year-end increase in asset prices, more specifically the last 5 trading days of December and first 2 of January. In the crypto market, there have been 5 Santa Claus Rallies in the last 10 years, while 8 rallies were recorded in the pre-Christmas period from 19 - 25 December. During these rallies, total crypto market capitalisation has seen gains ranging from 0.2% to an impressive 11%.

Let’s explore the validity of this concept, and how it pertains to the crypto markets. 

Pre-Christmas vs. post-Christmas trends

The term "Santa Claus Rally" might sound like wishful thinking, but the numbers tell a more nuanced story. Over the past ten years, the crypto market has demonstrated an interesting pattern of performance during the holiday season, with market capitalisations showing unexpected movements that defy simple predictions.

Interestingly, pre-Christmas Bitcoin rallies (19 to 25 December) were the most frequent, with gains ranging from a modest 0.2% to 13%. 

However, when the BTC market turned bearish, pullbacks were typically more severe after Christmas than before. The largest dip, a wild 21%, occurred in 2017 following the ICO boom. Pre-Christmas declines, meanwhile, were more moderate, with decreases of 6% in 2017 and 1% in 2019.

Years with double rallies

Bitcoin, typically illustrating broader market trends, has delivered equally compelling year-end performances. Over the past decade, it recorded pre-Christmas rallies 8 times, with its standout surge occurring in 2016, with a 13% increase in the week leading up to Christmas and 10% gains post-Christmas.

On the flip side, 2017 marked a dramatic downturn, with Bitcoin's price plunging 21%, highlighting the market's inherent volatility.

Interestingly, only three years (2016, 2020, and 2023) witnessed consistent crypto market gains both before and after Christmas as well as overall in the month of December. Similarly, in 2023, while slight, the crypto market rebounded from bearish territory with gains of 1% before Christmas and 4% after, making a total of 12% gains over the entire month. 

The broader December effect

Zooming out, the month of December paints a more dynamic picture. Half of the past decade saw December-wide market increases ranging from 12% (2023) to a dramatic 47% (2020). 

On the flip side, during bearish Decembers, losses ranged between 4% and 17%.

Bitcoin and the Santa Claus effect

Looking over the numbers, from 2014 to 2023, Bitcoin has seen 5 Santa Claus rallies, peaking at 11% in 2020. However, Bitcoin also faced notable declines, including a dramatic 21% drop in 2017 during the post-Christmas period.

On average, speculating on Bitcoin during Santa Claus rally periods would have yielded modest returns of about 1.3% pre- and post-Christmas. In comparison, holding Bitcoin throughout December delivered a much higher average return of 9.5%, illustrating the variability and inconsistency of the Santa Claus effect.

Takeaway: a mixed bag of opportunities

The Santa Claus Rally remains an inconsistent occurrence in the crypto space. While historical data provides intriguing patterns, traders should approach this trend with cautious optimism, as past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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The holiday season, with all its glitter, cheer and tradition, can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of emotions and expenses. Between those persuasive commercials and the relentless social media ads and influencers, it can feel like an added pressure on your finances that you just don’t have the energy to fight off at the end of the year.

But fret not, taming holiday spending isn't as tricky as wrapping a bowling ball, even if your loved ones are living it up in the holiday splurge zone while you're in the "I'm on a budget" Santa hat.

We’re here to help you sleigh the festive season without sending your bank account into winter hibernation. Here are five realistic financial boundaries to implement with friends and family this festive season. 

Create a budget

Who could have predicted this? Well, it's not exactly breaking news, but a well-crafted budget is your trusty reindeer reins. And no, it's not here to rain on your festive parade, it's the voice of reason when things get a little too merry.

Planning a holiday budget may not sound like a barrel of laughs, but trust us, it's the key to unlocking financial serenity this season. Here's your step-by-step guide to make it a tad more enjoyable:

Step one: Snuggle up with your favourite holiday treat and get comfy. Plot out your budget, factoring in gifts, decorations, travel, and entertainment.

Step two: Be brutally honest with yourself about your spending limits and keep expectations in check. Keep it realistic, and don’t ignore your January Voice of Reason.

Step three: Now, manage and follow your budget as if your life depended on it. It's your financial GPS, steering you away from the treacherous cliffs of overspending. Be in the business of staying disciplined, and both your wallet and future self will be singing your praises.

Be picky with your social calendar

Finding the right balance during the holiday season can be a bit tricky, especially if you're the life of the party who never turns down a chance to celebrate. While holiday gatherings are undeniably fun, they can also put a strain on your wallet, what with buying gifts or splurging on new outfits for every Friendsgiving or seasonal bash on your invite list.

So, what's the secret sauce? Simple, really: set a cap on how many events you'll attend, and fill your calendar with wallet-friendly or no-cost activities. 

Think about hosting a cosy Christmas cocktail night at home instead of hitting up pricy holiday pop-up bars, enjoying potluck dinners at friends instead of eating out, or even just swapping holiday-themed books with your pals. These options let you savour the holiday spirit without breaking the bank.

Propose a gift swap instead of playing Santa to all

The fastest way to empty your pockets during the festive season? Showering gifts on everyone you adore. It's undeniably heartwarming, as the holidays are all about giving, but if your mission is to rescue your finances, it's crucial to stick to that budget.

Here's the savvy play: suggest a group gift exchange like Secret Santa or White Elephant, where each person is responsible for a single present. This gem of an idea works wonders, especially if you're accustomed to playing Santa for your entire office or friend gang, at the cost of any good times in January.

Now, we get it. Your love language might be gift-giving and holding back your desire to gift everyone can be challenging. However, it'll save you a ton of money in the long run. Bonus? You might discover that you can give a more heartfelt gift when you're not fretting over multiple purchases or chasing down the perfect presents for everyone. Happier you, happier everyone.

Embrace the cash or debit approach

Taming the holiday spending frenzy calls for some clever tactics. Swap that tempting credit card for cash or a trusty debit card when you head off on your festive shopping adventures. With this approach, you'll stick to spending only what's safely nestled in your bank account.

It's like Santa himself keeping a watchful eye on your wallet, ensuring you don't venture into the land of overspending. When you physically see those bills leave your hand or the numbers dip in your account, it becomes a tangible reminder to stay within your budget. 

So, this holiday season, let your cash or debit card be your financial guardian and keep the festivities merry without the budget hangover.

Master the art of responsible online shopping

Last but not least, yes, online shopping is still spending. The allure of online deals and discounts can be irresistible, leading to overspending in the blink of an eye. To conquer this digital shopping realm, establish a strict limit on your online purchases and banish impulsive buying tendencies.

But there's more: declutter your inbox by unsubscribing from those tempting promotional emails. It's like building a fortress around your financial willpower. With fewer temptations, you're less likely to get lured into spontaneous shopping sprees.

Final thoughts

Navigating the holiday whirlwind without emptying your pockets is doable. Craft a budget, stick to it, and then lean into the festivities around you. Sticking to these boundaries will not only protect your mental health but also ensure a festive season filled with cheer, not financial stress. Because, after all, aren’t Aunt Linda’s questions about what you’re doing with your life stressful enough?

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