Latest news with #Merge
FF News
5 days ago
- Business
- FF News
DHgate and Merge Announce Strategic Partnership to Power B2B Cross-Border Payments
Merge, a London-based fintech company that provides payments and banking infrastructure for digital businesses, has announced a new strategic partnership with DHgate, a leading global B2B e-commerce marketplace. The partnership will integrate Merge's advanced API for cross-border payments into DHgate's platform, making transactions smoother and more cost-effective. This means DHgate's customers will enjoy a simpler payment process, reduced transaction costs, and more payment options, eliminating many of the issues faced by marketplaces when using traditional payment service providers. Leveraging the recent activation of both EMI and VASP licences, Merge's fully regulated API technology enables businesses to easily create, deploy, and manage payment collection and disbursement without requiring significant engineering resources. This provides partners with a more cost-effective, compliant solution for building new payments products or enhancing existing services. For DHgate, Merge's technology will enhance the overall payments experience and boost conversion rates on their platform. The API grants access to real-time, local payment rails that ensure instant payments and settlements, and significantly reduced chargebacks compared to traditional card payments, all at a fraction of the price. DHgate joins a long list of prestigious businesses currently utilising the Merge API, showing the growing need for cross-border payments rails within the global eCommerce landscape. With the cross border B2B payment market size valued at around $150 billion in revenue in 2024, Merge is set to expand its global reach and improve the payment rails available to businesses and marketplaces worldwide. The partnership is a key step in expanding Merge's global presence and reinforcing its mission to facilitate seamless cross-border payments. It also reflects DHgate's commitment to offering reliable, diverse payment options to support the needs of its global customer base. Kebbie Sebastian, CEO of Merge, said: By removing the payment friction that often slows international trade, we're helping platforms like DHgate unlock new markets and better serve their global customers. It's a strong validation of our infrastructure and a step forward in our mission to modernize how money moves across borders. This partnership with DHgate reinforces Merge's commitment to enabling efficient, reliable payments for established global platforms.' Jin Xinyu, Payment Director at DHgate, added: 'As the global leading B2B cross-border e-commerce marketplace, DHGate is at the forefront of innovation in global commerce and money movement is a critical part of that. We are glad to leverage Merge's transformational technology to expand our customer base by offering faster, more cost effective payment options to our customers. Companies In This Post Merge
Finextra
5 days ago
- Business
- Finextra
DHgate embeds cross-border payments with Merge API
Merge, a London-based fintech company that provides payments and banking infrastructure for digital businesses, has announced a new strategic partnership with DHgate, a leading global B2B e-commerce marketplace. 0 The partnership will integrate Merge's advanced API for cross-border payments into DHgate's platform, making transactions smoother and more cost-effective. This means DHgate's customers will enjoy a simpler payment process, reduced transaction costs, and more payment options, eliminating many of the issues faced by marketplaces when using traditional payment service providers. Leveraging the recent activation of both EMI and VASP licences, Merge's fully regulated API technology enables businesses to easily create, deploy, and manage payment collection and disbursement without requiring significant engineering resources. This provides partners with a more cost-effective, compliant solution for building new payments products or enhancing existing services. For DHgate, Merge's technology will enhance the overall payments experience and boost conversion rates on their platform. The API grants access to real-time, local payment rails that ensure instant payments and settlements, and significantly reduced chargebacks compared to traditional card payments, all at a fraction of the price. DHgate joins a long list of prestigious businesses currently utilising the Merge API, showing the growing need for cross-border payments rails within the global eCommerce landscape. With the cross border B2B payment market size valued at around $150 billion in revenue in 2024, Merge is set to expand its global reach and improve the payment rails available to businesses and marketplaces worldwide. The partnership is a key step in expanding Merge's global presence and reinforcing its mission to facilitate seamless cross-border payments. It also reflects DHgate's commitment to offering reliable, diverse payment options to support the needs of its global customer base. Kebbie Sebastian, CEO of Merge, said: By removing the payment friction that often slows international trade, we're helping platforms like DHgate unlock new markets and better serve their global customers. It's a strong validation of our infrastructure and a step forward in our mission to modernize how money moves across borders. This partnership with DHgate reinforces Merge's commitment to enabling efficient, reliable payments for established global platforms.' Jin Xinyu, Payment Director at DHgate, added: 'As the global leading B2B cross-border e-commerce marketplace, DHGate is at the forefront of innovation in global commerce and money movement is a critical part of that. We are glad to leverage Merge's transformational technology to expand our customer base by offering faster, more cost effective payment options to our customers.
Mail & Guardian
6 days ago
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
The Merge aftermath: Did Ethereum really become green?
In 2022, Ethereum made a dramatic change. It shifted from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake, a move that promised to cut its energy use by over 99 percent. Headlines called it a climate win, and supporters claimed Ethereum had finally gone green. But going green is more than just a headline. It takes proof, consistent results, and more than surface-level changes. Now that some time has passed, it's worth asking what really changed. Has Ethereum become as energy efficient as promised? Did the Merge fix the environmental criticism that followed the network for years? Let's look at the aftermath and what it really means to be a 'green' blockchain. How the Merge Changed Ethereum's Energy Use Ethereum used to run on a system called proof-of-work, where miners used powerful machines to validate transactions. That process burned through huge amounts of electricity. At its peak, Ethereum's energy usage matched that of some small countries. This sparked criticism from environmental groups and pushed projects, including those on the The Merge introduced a cleaner model called proof-of-stake. Instead of solving power-hungry puzzles, validators now secure the network by locking up ETH. Here's what changed: Energy consumption dropped by over 99% after the switch. Mining was replaced by staking, ending the need for expensive equipment. The network became more efficient, using far less electricity per transaction. Eco-conscious platforms joined the network, from NFTs to gaming apps. Reduced costs and cleaner operation attracted developers to build new projects. Ethereum's shift was not just about sustainability. It opened doors for broader adoption, especially in industries that care about transparency and energy use. Has Ethereum's Carbon Footprint Actually Improved? Reducing energy use was the main goal of Ethereum's total energy use has dropped by over 99%. That's a huge improvement. It also shifted Ethereum's public image. Many now see it as the 'cleaner' alternative to Bitcoin. But having a smaller footprint doesn't mean there's no footprint at all. How Ethereum Compares Today, Step-by-Step: Here's a breakdown of what changed after the Merge and what those changes really mean: Estimated CO₂ output: ~0.6 metric tons per year. Before the Merge, it was in the millions. Energy per transaction: Less than 0.01 kWh. That's about the same as a Google search. Bitcoin comparison: Bitcoin still uses over 100 TWh a year and emits tens of millions of tons of CO₂. Top carbon trackers: Groups like Crypto Carbon Ratings Institute and Digiconomist track Ethereum's progress. Ethereum now fits better into ESG conversations. Some funds and apps that once avoided crypto are now including it because of these changes. But not every validator runs on clean power. And if Ethereum keeps growing, power use could rise again. The Merge was a huge step, but it wasn't the final one. Institutional Adoption and Green Narratives Ethereum's switch to proof-of-stake did more than lower energy use. It also shifted how institutions see the network. Before the Merge, Ethereum faced the same criticism as Bitcoin for consuming too much energy. That kept many ESG-focused funds and climate-conscious investors from getting involved, even as Ethereum powered major parts of DeFi and NFTs. After the Merge, with energy use cut by over 99 percent, Ethereum became one of the most environmentally friendly blockchains. This change opened the door to wider institutional interest. Investors began to view Ethereum as a platform that could evolve and align with modern sustainability goals. The improved energy profile fits better with corporate ESG standards, making it easier to include in portfolios. Because of this, Ethereum is now seeing increased attention from asset managers, fintech platforms, and even banks. The shift is not just about image. Cleaner technology leads to real investment from groups that would not have considered it before. Life After the Merge: How Ethereum Users Have Responded The Merge was more than just a technical change. It shifted how people view Ethereum's purpose and long-term role in the crypto world. Before the switch to proof-of-stake, Ethereum was often criticized for its energy use and scalability problems. After the update, the network gained a reputation for being cleaner and more future-ready. That shift influenced behavior across the board. More users began staking ETH, developers turned their focus to scaling tools, and many projects embraced the idea of Ethereum as a sustainable base layer. It's not perfect, but it's no longer seen as the energy hog it once was. Ways the Merge changed user habits: Staking increased: Many users now treat staking as a regular way to earn and support the chain. Green appeal grew: Lower energy use helped attract users who care about sustainability. Builders refocused: Developer attention shifted to lower fees and better speed. Investor confidence returned: Some had paused activity before the Merge and came back after. App messaging evolved: DApps and platforms now highlight Ethereum's cleaner footprint. Tip: If you're active on Ethereum, track how your gas usage and staking habits have changed over time. It helps you see whether the Merge is matching your expectations in real terms. What Still Needs Fixing on Ethereum The Merge improved Ethereum's energy usage, but it didn't solve every problem. Several ongoing issues continue to affect usability, performance, and decentralization. While switching to proof-of-stake was a major step, it left some challenges untouched. Gas fees are still high when the network is busy. Staking also introduces concerns about power concentration, as a small number of platforms now control a large portion of staked ETH. For many users, these factors create friction and uncertainty. Common concerns post-Merge include: High transaction fees: Still a major barrier for everyday users. Validator centralization: A handful of entities hold too much control. Scalability limits: Network still lacks the speed for mass adoption. User experience issues: Complex tools and confusing wallets. Long upgrade timeline: Future improvements take years to roll out. Conclusion The Merge marked real progress for Ethereum, especially by cutting energy use. But it did not fix everything. Fees remain high, and control still leans toward a small group of validators. Ethereum is greener now, but it has more to prove. For the network to reach its full potential, it needs to become faster, cheaper, and more open to everyone. People want more than clean energy. They want a system that delivers on its original promises. The Merge was a strong step forward, but it is only part of a longer path to real change.
Axios
10-06-2025
- Business
- Axios
Durham's influential music label Merge Records sells 50% stake in company
Merge Records, a Durham music label that has become influential in the independent music scene over the past 35 years, has sold a 50% stake in the company — a move that the label hopes will provide more distribution resources for its artists. Why it matters: Founded by Mac McCaughan and Laura Ballance as a way to release the music of their own band, Superchunk, Merge has become a powerhouse in the industry, putting out records by bands like Arcade Fire, Spoon, Neutral Milk Hotel and the Magnetic Fields. It's also an important incubator of the Triangle's own music scene, bringing its artists through the area's venues and giving local bands like Hiss Golden Messenger, Rosali and H.C. McEntire a launchpad to new audiences. Driving the news: On Tuesday, Merge announced it had sold a 50% stake in the company to Indiana-based Secretly Group, which owns several other record labels, like Dead Oceans, Jagjaguwar and Secretly Canadian. Zoom in: Merge will continue to operate as a standalone label in Durham as part of the deal, with McCaughan continuing to serve as label president and head of A&R (Artist & Repertoire). Ballance, however, will be leaving the music business following the deal. In a statement, Secretly co-founder Phil Waldorf said his group reached out to Merge about a new partnership when it first heard Ballance was looking to leave the business. What they're saying: "It was never my goal to start a record label when I was 21 and run it for the rest of my life," Ballance said in a statement, noting she has other creative endeavors she would like to pursue. "Merge Records started as a literal bedroom label, in my bedroom, and lived there for a few years before we were able to give it some space of its own," she added. "It has always been a labor of love. I am going to miss it and all the people and bands tremendously." Between the lines: The deal gives Merge access to Secretly's worldwide distribution networks as well as access to more resources for operations like accounting, artist royalties, business affairs, licensing, IT and HR. Representatives for Merge were not immediately available for an interview, but last year McCaughan told Axios running a music label has become even more complex in the era of streaming. "What's still great about having a record label is the artists that we get to work with and hearing someone's new album when it's finished," McCaughan said last year. "But, you know, the business of trying to get those bands heard by the most people and trying to sell records enough so that those artists can make a living or even just break even on tour has become really frustrating," he added.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Superchunk ‘Key' Up For 13th Album, Tour
Superchunk sound as sprightly as their early days on 'Is It Making You Feel Something,' the first single from the beloved North Carolina indie rock band's 13th album, Songs in the Key of Yikes. The set will be released Aug. 22 on the band's longtime label, Merge. 'This song is about not second-guessing yourself in the very second-guessable process of writing words and music,' frontman Mac McCaughan says. 'It's about the legitimate question of 'who needs this and what is it good for?' but also about not setting such a high bar for making art that you never get started. 'Is it making you feel something?' OK, that's a place to start.' More from Spin: Best Albums of 2025 (So Far) Failure Documentary Heading To Hulu Alex Warren is Anything But 'Ordinary' Songs in the Key of Yikes is the first Superchunk album since 1991's No Pocky for Kitty to not feature drummer Jon Wurster, who left in 2023 to focus on his work with the Mountain Goats and Bob Mould. His role has since been filled by Laura King, who appears on the album. Superchunk is rounded out by longtime guitarist Jim Wilbur and original bassist Laura Ballance, who no longer tours with the band but remains an active contributor to their recordings. 'It's always been the case that everyone is going through something that you may not be aware of,' McCaughan says. 'This is currently more true than ever—but also the case that we are all going through some things together. In the face of that, what good is art and where is happiness found? (Spoiler alert: I don't know.)' Superchunk will support Yikes on a two-leg fall North American tour, beginning Sept. 5 in Richmond, Va. Click here to pre-order the new album and a limited-edition seven-inch single with 'Is It Making You Feel Something' backed by the exclusive b-side 'Sirens & Lights.' Sep 05: Richmond, VA – Richmond Music HallSep 09: Washington, DC – Black Cat *Sep 10: Philadelphia, PA – Ardmore Music Hall *Sep 11: New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom *Sep 12: Boston, MA – The Crystal Ballroom *Sep 13: Portsmouth, NH – 3S Artspace *Sep 14: Woodstock, NY – Bearsville Theater *Sep 16: Pittsburgh, PA – Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall *Sep 17: Cleveland, OH – Grog Shop *Sep 18: Kalamazoo, MI – Bell's Eccentric Cafe *Sep 19: Sawyer, MI – Out There (Special Acoustic Show)Oct 09: Pioneertown, CA – Pappy & Harriet'sOct 10: Las Vegas, NV – Best Friends Fest Oct 13: Denver, CO – The Gothic Theatre ^Oct 14: Salt Lake City, UT – Urban Lounge ^Oct 15: Boise, ID – Shrine Social Club Ballroom ^Oct 17: Seattle, WA – Tractor Tavern ^Oct 18: Portland, OR – Mississippi Studios ^Oct 19: Portland, OR – Mississippi Studios ^Oct 21: San Francisco, CA – The Independent ^Oct 23: Los Angeles, CA – Teragram Ballroom ^ * w/ Tee Vee Repairmann^ w/ Case Oats To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here.
