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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – The global cryptocurrency market has seen unprecedented growth in the previous year, spearheaded by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Institutional participation was very important in driving prices higher, with Bitcoin reaching an all-time high above $100,000 in December 2024. With the spreading adoption of crypto assets, regulators have paid even more attention to the industry. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains what regulation can be expected in 2025 and beyond. Key Events Shaping the Cryptocurrency Market in 2024–2025 The cryptocurrency market has entered a new phase, defined by record-breaking milestones and regulatory shifts that are reshaping opportunities for traders and institutional investors. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 in December 2024 underlined the increasing mainstream acceptance of digital assets. Institutional adoption played a leading role in this rally. Companies such as MicroStrategy expanded their Bitcoin holdings, cementing the asset’s store-of-value status, while Bitcoin ETFs made access easier for retail and institutional investors alike, boosting liquidity and demand. This trajectory is also framed through regulatory changes. The friendly crypto attitude taken by the Trump administration, from its Crypto Task Force to the plan for a national Bitcoin reserve, has put the grounds on a much friendlier landscape for institutional investments. Meanwhile, Europe has moved in a structured manner with the full implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in January 2025, bringing legal clarity and market stability across EU member states. Yet, in Asia, the regulations are mixed: Hong Kong has been trying to reaffirm ambitions to be a digital-asset hub by issuing fresh licenses for new crypto exchanges, while China is tightening restrictions on crypto-related financial activities in its bid to cut high-risk transactions. Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Prices Regulatory decisions, institutional involvement, and macroeconomic conditions will interact in complex ways to determine the prices of cryptocurrencies in 2025. Regulatory Factors: Frameworks and Compliance Standards Regulatory oversight has remained one of the most significant drivers of market sentiment. The FATF revised its guidelines on virtual assets to include a more robust framework toward compliance to mitigate illicit financial activity. While such efforts bring greater transparency, they simultaneously affect transaction privacy and how decentralised exchanges function, shifting how market participants operate. Yet, in the United States, the SEC’s relaxing of restrictive accounting rules on cryptocurrency holdings has given corporations a clearer pathway for putting Bitcoin on their balance sheet. This, along with the expected acceleration of institutional adoption, will likely increase the presence of digital assets in corporate portfolios. According to Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, ‘Regulation is going to make the difference to crypto market stability in 2025: even as clearer rules can boost investor confidence, rigid measures may affect liquidity and innovation’. Critical decisions on regulation, macroeconomic factors, and the rise of institutional investors’ participation in the digital asset space will shape the outlook for this year. Macroeconomic Factors: Interest Rates, Inflation, and Monetary Policy Besides regulation, broader economic trends are driving investor behaviour toward crypto assets. For example, the Federal Reserve’s monetary tightening in 2024 to contain inflation accelerated demand for alternative assets such as Bitcoin. Many investors now consider Bitcoin digital gold, a hedge against inflation and a store of value during periods of economic turmoil. This trend has been most pronounced in countries with weak fiat currencies, where crypto adoption has accelerated to preserve purchasing power. Institutional Investors and Market Liquidity With the increased participation of corporations and investment funds, crypto markets have become more liquid, thus increasing stability and raising concerns about over-centralisation and regulatory control. With the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has further consolidated its position and opened up crypto assets to traditional investment channels. This has helped legitimise cryptocurrency further and fed demand for regulated crypto investments. Meanwhile, speculation continues to build over potential government Bitcoin accumulation. Some analysts say the U.S. Treasury could consider adding Bitcoin to its reserves, which would change market dynamics and speed up institutional adoption. While institutional involvement strengthens market stability, it also concentrates Bitcoin holdings in fewer hands, increasing the risks of regulatory intervention and market manipulation and challenging the decentralised foundation of digital assets. The Road Ahead for Crypto Markets In 2025, the cryptocurrency market is defined by regulatory shifts, institutional expansion, and macroeconomic forces. Bitcoin’s surge past $100,000 reflects growing confidence, but its long-term trajectory depends on global policy decisions. The EU’s MiCA framework fosters stability, while the U.S. adopts a more crypto-friendly stance. Meanwhile, Asia remains divided between regulatory tightening and innovation. Institutional players like BlackRock continue to drive liquidity, but the industry must balance mainstream adoption with decentralisation. Staying adaptable will be key for investors looking to navigate and capitalise on emerging opportunities. ___ Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Hashtag: #Octa The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Octa Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools. The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities. In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

DUBLIN, IRELAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, today announced that Jennifer Richards has been selected as CEO of Asia Pacific, effective 1 March. Richards assumes the role from Anne Corona who has recently been named CEO of enterprise clients and global chief commercial officer. She will work alongside the Asia Pacific Executive Committee to enhance the firm’s capabilities across the region, create distinctive value for clients, deliver growth and strong financial performance, inspire colleagues and execute on the 3×3 Plan. Richards will report to CEO of Regions, Lori Goltermann, join the Aon Executive Committee and move from Australia to Singapore in the coming months. Since joining Aon in Australia 13 years ago, Richards has been a dedicated and passionate colleague, supporting Australian, regional and global clients to make better decisions to address their risk and people challenges. She served most recently as head of Australia where she has a track record of success, fostering key client relationships and embedding the firm’s 3×3 Plan to accelerate growth and capabilities across all solution lines. “The Asia Pacific region is critical to Aon’s strategy, representing significant growth opportunities across a diverse market,” said Goltermann. “Jennifer’s experience, Aon United mindset and ability to build and inspire high-performing teams position her to lead the Asia Pacific region to continued success.” Prior to joining Aon, Richards held several senior management roles at AIG in its Financial Institutions and M&A businesses in North America. Before joining the insurance industry, Richards practiced corporate and securities law at Sidley Austin LLP in New York City. Richards said, “I am excited to work even more closely with this exceptional team and look forward to collaborating with such talented colleagues across the region. There is so much opportunity in the Asia Pacific region, and together we will build on our existing momentum and accelerate our ability to help our clients navigate the multi-faceted, complex and interconnected challenges they face.” Read more about Aon in the APAC region: aon.com/apac Hashtag: #Aon The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Aon Aon plc (NYSE: AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise, and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that protect and grow their businesses. Follow Aon on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram. Stay up-to-date by visiting Aon’s newsroom and sign up for news alerts here. Disclaimer The information contained in this document is solely for information purposes, for general guidance only and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although Aon endeavours to provide accurate and timely information and uses sources that it considers reliable, the firm does not warrant, represent or guarantee the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, or fitness for any purpose of any content of this document and can accept no liability for any loss incurred in any way by any person who may rely on it. There can be no guarantee that the information contained in this document will remain accurate as on the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No individual or entity should make decisions or act based solely on the information contained herein without appropriate professional advice and targeted research.