Hong Kong Moves Forward with Stablecoins While Beijing Signals Concern

**Chinese Firms Halt Hong Kong Stablecoin Plans as Beijing Raises Concerns Over Controlled Digital Currencies**

*October 20, 2025* — Chinese technology firms, including Ant Group and JD.com, have paused their plans to issue stablecoins in Hong Kong following regulatory concerns raised by Beijing over privately controlled digital currencies. This move comes amid heightened caution from mainland authorities as Hong Kong increasingly develops its stablecoin and tokenization ecosystem.

### SFC Hosts Seminar on Risk Management for Digital Asset and Tokenised Funds

Last week, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) participated in a seminar organised by the Association of Fund Administrators of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. The event attracted over 150 attendees, including fund managers, digital asset professionals, legal experts, and compliance officers.

Eric Yip, SFC’s Executive Director of Intermediaries, delivered the keynote speech focusing on risk management and control measures for digital asset funds and tokenised funds. The seminar emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts within the fund industry to enhance both technical and regulatory compliance capabilities while encouraging the adoption of new technologies in fund management.

### Understanding Risk Management in Digital Assets

Risk management is a foundational concept widely used by brokers and financial venues. It involves identifying potential risks in advance, analysing them, and undertaking precautionary steps to mitigate or prevent adverse outcomes. Effective risk management is vital for stability, especially in the finance industry where unforeseen events or crises can have significant repercussions.

Given the increasingly tightly regulated environment across all asset classes, robust risk controls are essential in managing the unique challenges posed by digital assets and tokenised financial products.

### RMB Internationalisation and Hong Kong’s Role in Tokenised Financial Products

China is carefully adjusting its digital currency approach, allowing for limited issuance of fiat-referenced stablecoins aimed at supporting the international use of the renminbi (RMB). Despite strict mainland capital controls and the 2021 crypto ban, Hong Kong has emerged as a controlled testbed for innovation in this area.

On August 1, 2025, Hong Kong introduced a new licensing regime for stablecoin issuers, positioning the city as a hub for tokenised financial products. This regulatory framework highlights the delicate balance between fostering innovation and enforcing regulatory oversight, a balance that is reflected both in the recent SFC seminar and Beijing’s cautious stance on privately controlled stablecoins.

### Background: What Are Stablecoins?

Unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, stablecoins are designed to maintain a stable value. They appeal to investors who prefer reduced volatility compared to traditional cryptocurrencies. Stablecoins achieve this stability by being pegged to another cryptocurrency, fiat currency, or exchange-traded commodities, offering a more predictable investment vehicle.

### Outlook

The recent pause by major Chinese firms indicates Beijing’s intent to maintain control over digital currency initiatives and limit private sector-led issuance. In contrast, Hong Kong continues to develop its regulatory framework to support the growth of tokenised financial products, serving as an important gateway for RMB internationalisation and digital asset innovation.

**About the Author:**
Tareq Sikder is a Forex technical analyst and financial writer with over 12 years of experience in the industry.

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https://www.financemagnates.com/cryptocurrency/hong-kong-moves-forward-with-stablecoins-while-beijing-signals-concern/

Plans for Monster Hunter Wilds x Final Fantasy 14 collab started at Gamescom 2024

These last couple of weeks, Capcom and Square Enix released the **Monster Hunter Wilds x Final Fantasy 14 collaboration event**, bringing various Final Fantasy elements to Monster Hunter Wilds and vice versa. This isn’t the first time these two gaming giants have teamed up, and for this project, they were eager to collaborate again as early as Gamescom 2024.

### From Gamescom 2024 to Tokyo Game Show 2025: The Collaboration Journey

At Gamescom 2024, Monster Hunter Wilds Producer Ryozo Tsujimoto, Director Yuya Tokuda, and Final Fantasy 14 Producer and Director Naoki Yoshida had a pivotal meeting about teaming up once more. This discussion eventually set into motion a new series of collaboration plans, culminating in the event we saw this year. The game leads shared these insights during a roundtable interview at Tokyo Game Show 2025.

### A Collaboration Built on Mutual Trust

For those unfamiliar, Monster Hunter Wilds launched its Final Fantasy 14 collaboration event on **September 29, 2025**. This event introduced a hunt for Omega Planetes and a related storyline, alongside new gear and cosmetics such as the Dark Knight armor set, Soul of the Pictomancer, Chocobo and Moogle skins, and endemic life like Malboro and Cactuar.

Meanwhile, on **October 6, 2025**, Final Fantasy 14 released Patch 7.35, featuring an eight-player battle against the formidable Guardian Arkveld. This quest involved a Palico and its secret companion, while players could also enjoy Monster Hunter-themed cosmetics for their characters and mounts.

### Origins of the Partnership

According to Tsujimoto and Yoshida, the foundation for this latest collaboration was laid with the success of the 2018 Final Fantasy 14 x Monster Hunter World event. Their renewed partnership began in earnest over dinner at Gamescom 2024.

Ryozo Tsujimoto reflected on the relationship:
“I’ve known Mr. Yoshida for a very long time. I have a great deal of respect for his creativity and commitment as a producer. Our first collaboration happened quite casually — we just asked if there was anything we could do together, and that led to the original Monster Hunter World event.

Last year at Gamescom, I had dinner with Mr. Yoshida and my team. We reminisced about how much fun the last collaboration was. Monster Hunter Wilds wasn’t out yet, but we were already thinking about it. While no final decisions were made then, we agreed to have more productive talks, which eventually led to the agreement at Tokyo Game Show.”

Naoki Yoshida also shared his thoughts on working with Capcom’s Monster Hunter team:
“Working with the Monster Hunter team was a no-brainer, even back in 2018. When I took over Final Fantasy 14’s redevelopment between 2010 and 2013, the Monster Hunter team reached out to support us.

Tsujimoto-san told me, ‘Why are you taking on such a crazy plan? It seems like a lot, but if there’s anything we can do to help, we want to support you, whether the game is successful or not.’ Their support was instrumental, and it’s why Final Fantasy 14 is where it is today.”

### Looking Ahead: More Exciting Content on the Horizon

It’s clear that this partnership is built on a strong foundation of mutual respect and shared enthusiasm. Both teams hope the current collaborations will not only excite fans of their respective games but also encourage players to explore what’s happening in each title.

Importantly, nearly all the collaboration content in Monster Hunter Wilds and Final Fantasy 14 has been created from scratch. Yoshida noted, “There is one scene with a character drinking a potion that we reused in Final Fantasy 14, but everything else is completely new. This will make the event feel very different from the Monster Hunter World collaboration.”

With such dedication to originality and quality, fans can look forward to more innovative and compelling crossover events between these two iconic franchises in the future.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146317/monster-hunter-wilds-final-fantasy-14-interview-tokyo-game-show-2025

Tessie Musalia leads drive to bridge digital divide in Rural Schools

The foundation, in collaboration with Ushiriki Wema—an economic empowerment programme—aims to advance technology in schools through the provision of computers and other digital learning materials.

Madam Tessie Musalia, the Co-Founder and Managing Trustee, said the programme targets enabling students to have instant access to vast amounts of information, e-books, online libraries, and real-world learning through various digital platforms.

“We believe that every child deserves access to quality education as envisaged in our Constitution 2010, regardless of their background or circumstances. By donating computers to schools, especially in rural areas, we are taking a step towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring that every student has the chance to explore, learn, and grow in this digitally driven era,” she said.

Tessie, the spouse of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, added that the initiative is supported by the United Nations through a partnership with the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary.

She made these remarks over the weekend during the donation of 30 desktops and 2 laptops to Mudavadi Girls High School in Madzuu, Vihiga County.

“These computers are part of 70 laptops and 30 desktops donated by the United Nations through the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary to promote IT in schools. I encourage students not only to use them for schoolwork but also to follow your curiosity, learn about the world, and dream big,” she said.

Madam Musalia emphasized that online platforms allow students to learn at their own pace and from various locations, accommodating different schedules and learning preferences.

She further encouraged teachers to equip students to connect with peers and experts globally through online tools, enabling collaborative projects and discussions across different locations.

“Technology has become an essential tool in education as it opens doors to knowledge beyond classrooms. When we invest in education, we invest in a stronger, smarter, and more hopeful tomorrow,” she added.

The programme will also complement the ongoing government initiative focused on building computer labs in schools across the country. The foundation is actively seeking to bring on board more partners and donors, both locally and internationally, to support this important cause.
https://www.citizen.digital/news/tessie-musalia-leads-drive-to-bridge-digital-divide-in-rural-schools-n371186

This is how you can boost your child’s problem-solving skills

**This is How You Can Boost Your Child’s Problem-Solving Skills**

*By Anujj Trehaan | Oct 14, 2025, 12:33 pm*

Outdoor treasure hunts provide a unique opportunity to enhance children’s problem-solving skills. These activities encourage kids to think critically, work collaboratively, and develop a sense of adventure. By engaging in treasure hunts, children can improve their ability to analyze situations, make decisions, and learn from their experiences.

In this article, we explore various ways outdoor treasure hunts can be designed to boost problem-solving abilities in children.

### 1. Encourage Teamwork and Collaboration

Treasure hunts are typically team activities that require kids to collaborate to solve clues and find the treasure. This encourages effective communication, sharing of ideas, and teaches children how to work together toward a common goal.

Teamwork helps kids understand different perspectives and develop social skills that are essential for problem-solving in real-life situations.

### 2. Develop Critical Thinking Skills

Solving clues during a treasure hunt demands critical thinking. Kids must analyze information and devise solutions, encouraging both logical and creative thinking.

As they face different challenges, children learn to evaluate their options and make informed decisions — key components of effective problem-solving.

### 3. Foster Creativity Through Challenges

Outdoor treasure hunts can include creative challenges, such as puzzles or riddles, that require innovative thinking. Engaging with these tasks helps children approach problems from different angles and develop unique solutions.

This creative exercise strengthens their ability to think outside the box, an invaluable skill for problem-solving.

### 4. Enhance Observational Skills

Successful treasure hunts depend heavily on keen observation. Kids must pay close attention to their surroundings, notice details, and interpret clues accurately.

This process sharpens their ability to detect subtle changes or patterns in different environments, a crucial aspect of effective problem-solving.

Incorporating outdoor treasure hunts into your child’s routine can be a fun and effective way to cultivate essential problem-solving skills. By encouraging teamwork, critical thinking, creativity, and observation, these activities prepare children to tackle challenges both in and out of the classroom.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/how-outdoor-treasure-hunts-can-boost-your-child-s-problem-solving-skills/story

The making of ‘How to Get Away with Murder’

**The Making of ‘How to Get Away with Murder’**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 13, 2025, 12:20 PM*

*What’s the story?*

*How to Get Away with Murder* is a series widely praised for its complicated plot and outstanding performances. The production secrets behind the show reveal how the creators managed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns. From casting choices to set designs, these elements were vital in shaping the series into the gripping drama fans love.

**1. Casting Choices and Chemistry**

Casting was crucial to the success of *How to Get Away with Murder*. The chemistry among the actors was palpable, making the characters believable and engaging. Viola Davis’s portrayal of Annalise Keating received particular acclaim for its depth and intensity. The casting team made sure each actor brought a unique dimension to their role, enhancing the show’s overall dynamic.

**2. Script Development Process**

The script development was meticulous, with writers collaborating closely to craft intricate storylines. Each episode was carefully plotted, weaving multiple story arcs seamlessly together. This attention to detail ensured a cohesive narrative that held viewers’ interest from beginning to end.

**3. Set Design and Locations**

Set design played a major role in building the show’s distinctive atmosphere. The interiors of Annalise’s office, for example, were designed to reflect her bold yet sophisticated personality. Additionally, filming across various locations added authenticity and depth to scenes, making them feel more relatable and real.

**4. Directorial Approach**

The directors of *How to Get Away with Murder* were instrumental in shaping each episode’s tone and pacing. Their approach involved close collaboration with actors to ensure performances aligned perfectly with the vision for each scene. This teamwork resulted in a series that felt cohesive despite its complex narrative structure.

**5. Music Selection and Score**

Music selection and scoring were key to setting the mood throughout the series. The soundtrack complemented crucial moments without overshadowing dialogue or on-screen action. It added an extra layer of emotion and tension, enhancing pivotal scenes and heightening the overall viewing experience.

Through thoughtful casting, detailed scripting, immersive set design, focused directing, and compelling music, *How to Get Away with Murder* became the thrilling and dynamic show that captivated audiences worldwide.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-to-get-away-with-murder-5-production-secrets/story

Shubhanshu Shukla appointed brand ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’

**Shubhanshu Shukla Appointed Brand Ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 05, 2025, 06:41 PM*

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), has been officially appointed as the brand ambassador for the “Viksit Bharat Buildathon.” This nationwide innovation movement targets students from classes 6 to 12, encouraging them to create innovative solutions that drive India’s development.

**A Nationwide Innovation Movement for Students**

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” is set to be the largest school hackathon in India. Organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission, over one crore students from approximately 1.5 lakh schools across the country are expected to participate.

This extensive initiative invites young minds to ideate, design, and develop prototypes focusing on four vital themes:

– **Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India)**
– **Swadeshi (Indigenous Products)**
– **Vocal for Local (Promoting Local Products)**
– **Samriddhi (Prosperity)**

Through these themes, the Buildathon aims to nurture creativity and problem-solving skills while fostering a spirit of national pride and self-sufficiency among students.

**Shubhanshu Shukla’s Role and Vision**

Group Captain Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot, completed his maiden space voyage with the Axiom-4 mission, becoming only the second Indian to travel to space after Rakesh Sharma’s iconic 1984 flight.

Recently, Shukla met with School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar to discuss the vision for the Buildathon, emphasizing the importance of empowering young innovators to contribute toward building a developed India.

**Event Timeline and Participation Details**

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” was officially launched on September 23, with registrations open until October 6. The live hackathon event is scheduled for October 13, and winners will be announced in December.

Students from classes 6 to 12 are encouraged to form teams and participate actively, developing creative ideas and prototypes that tackle real-life challenges aligned with the four national themes.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting journey toward innovation and progress. Register before the deadline and help build a Viksit Bharat!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/space-traveler-becomes-viksit-bharat-buildathon-brand-ambassador/story

Shubhanshu Shukla appointed brand ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’

**Shubhanshu Shukla Appointed Brand Ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 05, 2025, 06:41 PM*

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), has been appointed as the brand ambassador for the **”Viksit Bharat Buildathon”**—a nationwide innovation movement targeting students from classes 6 to 12.

### Largest School Hackathon in India

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” is poised to be the largest school hackathon in India, with over **one crore students** from around **1.5 lakh schools** expected to participate. This ambitious initiative is organized by the **Ministry of Education** in collaboration with the **Atal Innovation Mission**.

### Themes and Participation

The hackathon encourages young minds to ideate, design, and develop prototypes based on four key national themes:

– **Aatmanirbhar Bharat** (Self-reliant India)
– **Swadeshi** (Indigenous products)
– **Vocal for Local** (Promoting local products)
– **Samriddhi** (Prosperity)

Students from classes 6 to 12 are invited to form teams and creatively address real-life challenges through this platform.

### Shubhanshu Shukla’s Vision

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot, recently completed his maiden space voyage aboard the Axiom-4 mission. He became only the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s iconic flight in 1984.

On October 4, Shukla met with School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar to discuss the vision and objectives of the Buildathon, underlining the event’s national significance and potential impact.

### Event Timeline

– **Registration Deadline:** October 6, 2025
– **Event Date:** October 13, 2025
– **Winners Announcement:** December 2025

With registration closing soon, students are encouraged to participate actively and showcase their innovative solutions that contribute towards building a developed and self-reliant India.

For more details and registration, visit the official Buildathon website. Join the movement to build a **Viksit Bharat!**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/space-traveler-becomes-viksit-bharat-buildathon-brand-ambassador/story

Shubhanshu Shukla appointed brand ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’

**Shubhanshu Shukla Appointed Brand Ambassador of ‘Viksit Bharat Buildathon’**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 5, 2025, 6:41 PM*

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station (ISS), has been named the brand ambassador for the “Viksit Bharat Buildathon.” This nationwide innovation movement targets students from classes 6 to 12 and is organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission.

### Massive Student Participation Expected

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” is set to become the largest school hackathon in India, with over one crore students from around 1.5 lakh schools participating across the country. The initiative inspires young minds to ideate, design, and develop prototypes based on four key themes:
– **Aatmanirbhar Bharat** (Self-reliant India)
– **Swadeshi** (Indigenous)
– **Vocal for Local** (Promoting local products)
– **Samriddhi** (Prosperity)

### A Visionary Discussion

Shubhanshu Shukla, a 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot who recently completed his maiden space mission aboard the Axiom-4, is only the second Indian to go into space after Rakesh Sharma’s historic flight in 1984.

On Saturday, Shukla met with School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar to discuss the vision and objectives of the Buildathon, reinforcing the event’s emphasis on innovation and national development.

### Important Dates and Participation Details

The “Viksit Bharat Buildathon” was officially launched on September 23, with registrations open until October 6. The live event is scheduled for October 13, and winners will be announced in December.

Students from classes 6 to 12 are encouraged to form teams and collaborate creatively to develop innovative ideas and prototypes addressing real-world challenges aligned with the four national themes.

For more information and to register, students and educators can visit the official Buildathon website before the registration deadline. Join this exciting movement to contribute to a developed and self-reliant India!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/space-traveler-becomes-viksit-bharat-buildathon-brand-ambassador/story

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone exchange warm hugs as they are spotted together again after morning airport reunion

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, one of Bollywood’s most admired on-screen pairs, were seen together once again in Mumbai, this time in the evening, hours after their morning airport reunion created a social media buzz.

### Stylish Arrivals in the Evening

Upon their return, Ranbir was seen sporting a brown jacket over a white T-shirt paired with dark denim pants, while Deepika looked elegant in a white traditional ensemble. The duo hugged and exchanged greetings before walking together, sharing smiles, and talking casually, leaving fans delighted. They eventually headed their separate ways.

### A Day Full of Sightings

Earlier in the day, the duo had crossed paths at Mumbai airport. Ranbir, dressed in an all-black outfit with a cap and sunglasses, and Deepika, in a grey co-ord set with a zip-up jacket, exchanged a warm hug that immediately went viral online.

#### Deepika & Ranbir’s Airport Hug Sparks Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani 2 Buzz

Their warm interaction at the airport quickly sparked excitement among fans, reigniting speculation about a possible collaboration for the much-anticipated *Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani 2*.

### On the Work Front

Deepika Padukone is currently busy filming *King*, her sixth collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan. She is also reportedly teaming up with Allu Arjun for director Atlee’s upcoming project *AA22xA6*.

Recently, the makers confirmed that Deepika will no longer be part of the sequel to *Kalki 2898 AD*. In their statement, they mentioned that the decision came after “careful consideration,” adding that a film like *Kalki* demands a higher level of “commitment.”

This isn’t the first time Deepika has faced a roadblock with a major project. In May, reports surfaced that she had been replaced in Prabhas’s *Spirit*, another high-profile film directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Shortly afterward, the makers confirmed that *Animal* actress Triptii Dimri had joined the cast.

Ranbir Kapoor, meanwhile, is preparing for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s *Love & War* alongside his wife Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal. He will also portray Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s two-part epic *Ramayana*.

**Follow Us On Social Media** for more updates from Bollywood and your favourite stars!
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/ranbir-kapoor-and-deepika-padukone-exchange-warm-hugs-as-they-are-spotted-together-again-after-morning-airport-reunion/articleshow/124312880.cms

Taylor rates Travis’s proposal a perfect ’10 out of 10′

**Taylor Rates Travis’s Proposal a Perfect ‘10 out of 10’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 03, 2025, 04:29 PM*

**The Story**

In a recent appearance on *The Graham Norton Show*, popstar Taylor Swift opened up about her engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce. She revealed that Travis surprised her with a romantic proposal after recording his *New Heights* podcast in August.

“He really crushed it in surprising me,” Taylor shared. “While we were talking on his podcast, he had a complete garden built out the back of his house to propose in. He went all out—10 out of 10.”

**Wedding Details**

Wearing a black bejeweled mini dress that showcased her engagement ring, Taylor mentioned that she is currently prioritizing the promotion of her new album, *The Life of a Showgirl*, before diving into wedding planning.

“I want to do the album stuff first, and the wedding is what happens after in terms of planning. I think it will be fun to plan,” she said.

The album was officially released last Friday.

**Album Insights**

Swift described *The Life of a Showgirl* as a secret passion project that helped her cope during the physically demanding *Eras Tour*.

“Last year on the tour, I was physically exhausted, sick, and worn down, so to spark me up, I had the album as a secret passion project behind the scenes. It stopped me from hitting a wall,” she explained.

The album features 12 tracks, including a notable collaboration with singer Sabrina Carpenter.

**Artistic Growth**

Taylor also reflected on her evolution as an artist, sharing how her approach to songwriting has matured.

“In recent years, I have a different perspective and like storytelling at a little bit of a distance, so it isn’t like doing a complete autopsy of myself. I think my wheelhouse is bigger now. I feel I can do anything now while running in heels. I am confident to write higher choruses, jump an octave, and do falsetto stuff,” she said.

**Master Recordings**

On finally owning her master recordings, a lifelong dream came true for Taylor.

“I was able to buy my entire back catalog. I don’t respond to stuff generally, but not owning it really pissed me off. I didn’t think I should be given it—I was happy to pay and at a premium. I’m glad I spoke publicly about it and my fans got behind it and championed it,” she reflected.

Taylor’s candid conversation offered fans a glimpse into not only her personal happiness but also her continued artistic growth and business successes.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/taylor-talks-proposal-on-graham-norton-show/story

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