Fan Tokens, launched by Chiliz in 2019, have reached a $1 billion trading milestone as they celebrate their 5th anniversary. Chiliz introduced a Web3 wallet for enhanced fan engagement and secured regulatory approval in Malta, paving the way for EU expansion. A global fan report revealed a need for deeper fan connections, with Brazil’s Mercado Bitcoin joining the Chiliz Chain to strengthen its presence.

Fan Tokens, pioneered by Chiliz and first launched by Juventus in November 2019, have reached an extraordinary milestone as they celebrate their 5th anniversary. Over the past five years, these digital utility assets have gained remarkable traction, culminating in a record-breaking $1 billion in 24-hour trading volumes this Autumn. This landmark achievement underscores the growing adoption of Fan Tokens in the sports and crypto industries, providing fans with unique ways to engage with their favourite teams.

To commemorate this occasion, Chiliz unveiled a one-of-a-kind interactive street art mural outside the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The mural utilises NFC technology, allowing fans and passers-by to redeem digital collectibles as part of a Proof of Attendance Protocol (POAP). This innovative approach showcases the blend of art, technology, and fan engagement, further solidifying Fan Tokens’ position in the evolving sports landscape.

Launch of web3-enabled wallet enhances fan engagement

Chiliz’s flagship platform, Socios.com, recently introduced its Web3-enabled wallet, taking fan engagement to new heights. This decentralised wallet adopts a self-custody model, offering robust security measures, a user-friendly interface, and enhanced opportunities for fans to interact with their teams.

The wallet not only benefits users but also strengthens Chiliz’s position as a leader in integrating blockchain technology with sports. It aligns with the industry’s broader shift towards decentralisation while providing fans with secure and efficient means to experience their passion.

Regulatory compliance paves the way for EU expansion

Socios.com has secured in-principle regulatory approval from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). This approval under the Class 3 Virtual Financial Assets Act (VFAA) positions Socios.com as a regulated provider of virtual financial asset services. This development allows the platform to engage in various services, including the placement of virtual financial assets.

The regulatory approval is particularly significant in light of the upcoming Market in Crypto Assets (MiCA) legislation, which takes effect in January 2025. Once the full VFAA licence is granted, Socios.com will be able to seamlessly passport its services across the European Union, ensuring compliance with MiCA’s robust regulatory framework.

Global Fan Report highlights evolving football landscape

A recent Global Fan Report conducted by Chiliz sheds light on the evolving dynamics of football fandom. The survey, which included over 8,000 participants from the UK, US, Italy, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, and Nigeria, revealed several key insights:

• 33% of fans support an overseas team as their primary club.
• 83% of global fans believe their teams should do more to engage with them.

These findings underscore the growing need for clubs to leverage Fan Tokens to foster deeper connections with their global fan bases. With football becoming increasingly global, Fan Tokens are positioned as a pivotal tool for bridging the gap between teams and their supporters.

Strengthening ties in Brazil: Mercado Bitcoin joins Chiliz Chain

Brazil, a hub of football and blockchain innovation, continues to play a significant role in Chiliz’s expansion. With partnerships spanning over 50 of the country’s top teams and Web3 leaders, Chiliz has further strengthened its presence by onboarding Mercado Bitcoin, Brazil’s largest digital asset exchange, as its latest validator on the Chiliz Chain.

With a customer base exceeding 4 million, Mercado Bitcoin’s involvement reinforces Chiliz’s governance framework and deepens its connection with one of its most vibrant communities. This collaboration highlights the platform's commitment to expanding its reach and influence in the Web3 ecosystem.