Economy
Japaul Operations Under Serious Threat
**As Access Bank Gets Court Order to Seize Properties
By Dipo Olowookere
If urgent steps are not taken, Japaul Oil & Maritime Services Plc, one of the companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), may not be able to conduct its normal business interests.
This is because Access Bank Plc, another publicly quoted firm, has obtained a Mareva judgment to virtually take control of the company.
In suit No: FHC/L/CS/29/19, Justice C. J. Aneke of the Federal High Court sitting in the Lagos granted the lender “An Order for the immediate Arrest and detention of the Vessels MV JAPAUL A TUGBOAT AND MV DOMINON (MV PINA) TUGBOAT, THE VESSELS JD-1 DREDGER and JD 11 DREDGER the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Defendants (the mortgaged properties) anywhere they may be found within the Nigerian territorial waters within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
The judge also granted the bank, “An ORDER OF MANDATORY PRESERVATIVE INJUNCTION is made restraining the 3rd Defendant, JAPAUL MINES & PRODUCTS LIMITED, JAPAUL OIL & MARITIME SERVICES PLC AND PAUL ABIODUN JEGEDE, OWNERS OF JAPAUL A TUGBOAT AND MV DOMINION (MV PINA) TUGBOAT, THE VESSELS JD-1 DREDGER AND JD-11 DREDGER the 1st,2nd, 3rd, and 4th Defendants (the mortgaged properties) from registering any change or charges or mortgages to the ownership of the 1st and 2nd Defendants pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.”
In addition, the financial institution got, “An ORDER OF MAREVA INJUNCTION restraining the 3rd Defendant; JAPAUL MINES & PRODUCTS LIMITED, JAPAUL OIL & SERVICES PLC and PAUL ABIODUN JEGEDE, OWNERS OF JAPAUL A TUGBOAT AND MV DOMINION (MV PINA) TUGBOAT, THE VESSELS JD-1 DREDGER AND JD-11 DREDGER the 1st, 2nd 3rd and 4the Defendants herein, their agents, officers, assigns from operating the account maintained with the banks listed in schedule hereto including issuance of cheques, bank drafts, cash withdrawals or anything howsoever that would cause any sum of money to be removed from the said account pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.”
In a report, Proshare said, “The Mareva order made it impossible for the company to operate its accounts and sustain its activities as a going concern; the consequence of which threatened the jobs of hundreds of workers employed by the company.
“While this was at play, the listed company represented that it met its minimal requirements as a listed entity; yet the market was not availed of this information; especially as it relates to market being properly apprised of the situation and the potential contingent liabilities appropriately priced into market valuations. This is a matter we intend to interrogate in subsequent reviews on the development as it relates to the issue of market disclosure and corporate transparency.
“Far more pertinent must be the discovery that the company followed through on the complaint procedure put in place by financial regulators on matters of this type, as a means of market friendly resolution of banking excess charges with material consequence on profitability (including shareholder value). The firm represents that when such a formal complaint was made; the regulators advised them to “stay on the queue” as several cases of this nature was pending.
“This alleged response from a market regulator requires some deep reflections as it undermines the integrity of timely problem resolution mechanisms put in place to build confidence in the market and promote a veritable ‘ease of doing business’ climate.”
Japaul claimed in the court papers that it had approached Access Bank to complain about the exorbitant charges it noticed in its corporate account with the bank after an internal financial audit. The company requested that the excess charges be reversed and duly credited back into its account.
The bank declined and insisted that Japaul was in debt to the bank, and therefore, should pay up on its debt first.
While Japaul accepted indebtedness, it, however insisted that to keep the books clean and its records with the bank tidy; Access Bank should show good faith by conducting a reconciliation of the forensic report dated July 23, 2018 and reverse undisputed excess bank charges thereon; and use the amount credited to its account to (partly) offset amounts outstanding in respective of its loan.
The court papers showed no indication of this being done and indeed infers that Access Bank refused to oblige Japual’s request and went ahead to freeze the company’s account in December 2018.
This was further exacerbated when the bank, in response to the suit instituted by Japaul, approached another court in the same judicial division to seek for, and obtain an order to seize (arrest and detain) the assets (equipments) of the firm, freeze the account of the company and that of its Chairman and founder, Mr. Paul Abiodun Jegede on January 15, 2019.
The company subsequently sought redress in the same courts over what it saw as a breach of good faith between itself and its banker.
As a result of the legal confrontation, for four months (approx.) in 2019, Japaul and its Chairman were denied access to either the corporate account of the listed entity or/and that of the Chairman personally (having been a guarantor of the loan); thereby placing the company in dire operating conditions even while the substantive suit was yet undetermined.
Economy
How to Choose Between Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Fiat for Online Bets?
Online betting has changed with the rise of digital currencies, giving players new ways to manage deposits and payouts. Bitcoin and Ethereum stand out as the leading crypto options, while traditional fiat money remains a familiar choice. The best option depends on personal priorities: Bitcoin for simplicity and stability, Ethereum for flexibility and faster transactions, and fiat for convenience and predictability.
Each method serves a different purpose. Bitcoin offers a sense of security backed by years of adoption, Ethereum supports smart contracts that make transactions faster, and fiat money appeals to those who prefer standard banking systems. Choosing between them depends on individual comfort with technology, desired transaction speed, and tolerance for value changes.
Understanding these differences helps bettors make smarter, safer choices. Those who compare security, speed, and ease of access before placing bets can move forward with confidence. The next sections explain what sets these currencies apart and how to select the ideal one for any betting goal.
Key Differences Between Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Fiat Currency
Bitcoin and Ethereum work on decentralized networks, while fiat money depends on centralized control through banks and governments. They also differ in processing time, cost, and price behavior. These differences affect how players handle deposits, withdrawals, and bet sizing for online gambling platforms.
Control and Decentralization
Bitcoin and Ethereum both rely on decentralized blockchain systems. No government or single entity controls them, which means users manage their funds directly through digital wallets. This independence reduces the need for third-party approval, giving bettors faster access to their winnings.
Fiat currencies like the dollar or euro operate under national banking systems. Transactions run through intermediaries that can impose limits, fees, or delays. In contrast, decentralized assets allow players to move money freely across borders without such barriers.
Decentralization also influences transparency. Crypto transactions are recorded on public ledgers, allowing verification without revealing private identities. For users of a crypto casino with fiat payment options, this setup provides both modern digital flexibility and the familiar structure of government-backed cash.
Transaction Processing and Speed
Bitcoin processes an average of seven transactions per second, while Ethereum handles more through its advanced design. However, both face network congestion during heavy use, which can slow transaction times or increase fees. Ethereum aims to address this through upgrades that use proof-of-stake mechanisms to improve speed and efficiency.
Fiat transfers rely on centralized banking networks and payment processors. Bank wires or card payments may take hours or even days, especially across countries. Crypto transactions can be completed within minutes, making them appealing for users who prefer instant deposits or payouts on gaming sites.
The difference in transaction speed can determine convenience. A player who wants quick access to winnings may prefer digital currency. Someone who values predictability might choose fiat, even if it takes longer to process.
Price Stability and Volatility
Fiat currency prices remain relatively stable because central banks manage their value through regulation and monetary policy. This makes fiat suitable for users who prefer steady account balances, especially for budgeting gambling limits.
Bitcoin and Ethereum, on the other hand, experience price swings. Their value can shift within a day due to market trends, investor demand, or global events. Volatility creates both risk and opportunity, depending on how much the user can tolerate short-term changes.
Some players convert crypto profits to fiat quickly to avoid potential losses. Others keep their balance in digital form to benefit from possible gains. Each approach offers trade-offs, but understanding price behavior helps players manage both winnings and deposits effectively.
How to Choose the Best Payment Method for Your Online Bets
The best payment method for online betting depends on how much flexibility, privacy, and transaction speed a user needs. Each method, either crypto or fiat, offers specific strengths in cost, liquidity, and accessibility that matter for different betting profiles. Choosing well affects everything from deposit timing to withdrawal limits and exchange risks.
Use Cases and User Profiles
Each user approaches online betting differently, so the right payment method depends on individual goals and habits. Bitcoin attracts users who want privacy and independence from banks. It offers fast transfers and low fees for deposits and withdrawals. However, its price can change quickly, which might affect balance stability.
Ethereum suits bettors interested in decentralized finance (DeFi). Thanks to smart contracts and automated market makers (AMMs), users can link wallets to liquidity pools without intermediaries. This flexibility supports advanced users who trade in digital assets or hold altcoins. Still, higher network fees may discourage small deposits.
Fiat currencies, such as USD or EUR, appeal to users who prefer traditional regulation and consistent value. Bank transfers and debit cards often include buyer protection and wider acceptance. However, they can involve longer processing times or extra verification steps.
Platform Support and Liquidity
Payment compatibility varies by betting platform. Some sites readily support cryptocurrency markets, while others stay focused on fiat transfers. Bitcoin and Ethereum both offer strong global liquidity, which means users can fund or cash out faster in most regions. Many exchanges and wallets connect directly to betting sites for easier movement of funds.
Fiat still holds an advantage on platforms that link to local banks or prepaid systems. Users who deposit in fiat avoid exchange-rate concerns, though payout times may run slower. On crypto-focused sites, liquidity pools and AMMs supply quick access to BTC or ETH funds. This structure allows players to move assets between wallets and betting accounts with minimal friction.
Security also influences choice. Crypto wallets rely on private keys; fiat systems depend on card encryption and bank-level protection. Each user must balance convenience with personal control over funds.
Future Trends in Online Betting Payments
The payment landscape continues to evolve toward greater decentralization and cross-asset compatibility. Betting sites now explore integration with DeFi tools, letting users stake funds or trade within pools. Technologies built on Solana and similar blockchains promise faster confirmations and lower fees than older networks.
Interest in Bitcoin ETFs also affects bettors who prefer indirect exposure to crypto without holding coins directly. This trend could lead to more fiat-based betting platforms that interact with crypto markets behind the scenes.
Developers aim to connect traditional and blockchain systems so users can deposit in one currency and withdraw in another. Over time, a mix of stablecoins, fiat channels, and direct crypto access is likely to become standard, giving bettors more consistent control and faster financial movement across platforms.
Conclusion
Each payment type, either Bitcoin, Ethereum, or fiat, serves different needs in online betting. Bitcoin offers strong security and wide acceptance across many platforms. Its slower speeds and higher fees, however, can limit appeal for frequent or small wagers.
Ethereum provides faster transfers and supports smart contracts, which allow peer-to-peer bets without middlemen. This feature creates a more direct and transparent experience, but network congestion and fluctuating gas fees can still affect performance.
Fiat currency remains familiar and easy to use. It fits users who prefer traditional systems backed by banks and who value price stability over decentralization.
Therefore, players should match their payment choice with their goals. Those seeking trust and history may prefer Bitcoin, while speed and innovation point toward Ethereum. Conservative users who favor regulated systems might stay with fiat money.
Economy
NASD Index Rises 0.15%
By Adedapo Adesanya
The NASD Over-the-Counter (OTC) Securities Exchange rallied by 0.15 per cent on Tuesday, December 9, helped by a sole price gainer at the close of business, which suppressed the effect of two price losers.
Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc expanded its value by N1.00 to close at N44.00 per share compared with the previous day’s N43.00 per share.
However, UBN Property Plc depreciated during the session by 23 Kobo to sell at N2.08 per unit compared with the preceding session’s N2.31 per unit, and FrieslandCampina Wamco Nigeria Plc shrank by 20 Kobo to finish at N58.25 per share, in contrast to Monday’s closing price of N58.45 per share.
At the close of transactions, the NASD Unlisted Security Index (NSI) jumped by 5.54 points to 3,613.06 points from 3,607.52 points, and the market capitalisation increased by N3.31 billion to N2.161 billion from the N2.158 trillion quoted in the preceding session.
Yesterday, the volume of securities bought and sold went up by 39.9 per cent to 81,534 units from the 58,300 units recorded in the preceding trading session, the value of securities surged by 120.6 per cent to N4.3 million from N1.9 million, and the number of deals soared by 100 per cent to 28 deals from 15 deals achieved in the previous trading session.
At the close of business, Infrastructure Credit Guarantee Company (InfraCredit) Plc was the most traded stock by value on a year-to-date basis with the sale of 5.8 billion units for N16.4 billion, trailed by Okitipupa Plc with a turnover of 171.8 million units worth N8.3 billion, and Air Liquide Plc with 507.6 million units traded for N4.2 billion.
In the same vein, InfraCredit Plc ended the trading day as the most traded stock by volume on a year-to-date basis with 5.8 billion units valued at N16.4 billion, the second spot was taken by Industrial and General Insurance (IGI) Plc with 1.2 billion units worth N420.3 million, and the third position was occupied by Impresit Bakolori Plc with 537.0 million units sold for N524.9 million.
Economy
Naira Trades Flat Against Dollar, Pound, Euro at Official FX Market
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Naira maintained stability against the United States Dollar in the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM) on Tuesday, December 9, at N1,451/$1.
Equally, it closed flat against Pound Sterling and the Euro in the same market window, remaining unchanged at N1,934.75/£1 and N1,691.13/€1, respectively.
Also, the Nigerian currency traded flat against the US Dollar in the parallel market yesterday at N1,465/$1 but lost N2 at the GTBank FX counter to sell for N1,460/$1 versus Monday’s N1,458/$1.
Although the local currency faces pressures from increasing year-end Dollar demand, stoked by imports and some multinationals that are upstreaming US Dollars abroad; according to Cowry Asset Management, this is still stable reflecting divergent currency dynamics between the regulated official segment and the informal markets.
The Naira’s movement remains within the trading band, suggesting that the FX market is adjusting gradually to seasonal pressures while awaiting further policy signals from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
As for the cryptocurrency market, it witnessed a recovery ahead of an expected Federal Reserve’s rate cut.
The US central bank is expected to lower benchmark interest rates by 25 basis points at its two-day meeting concluding on Wednesday. While the rate cut is largely anticipated by market participants, looser financial conditions with a resilient US economy could help bolster risk appetite on markets.
Market analysts noted that the change of pattern could point to seller exhaustion.
Cardano (ADA) appreciated by 8.7 per cent to $0.4637, Ethereum (ETH) jumped by 7.2 per cent to $3,312.63, Solana (SOL) rose by 5.3 per cent to $139.23, Dogecoin (DOGE) increased its value by 5.0 per cent to $0.1467, and Bitcoin (BTC) mounted a 3.2 per cent gain to sell at $92,617.61.
In addition, Litecoin (LTC) expanded by 2.3 per cent to $84.52, Ripple (XRP) grew by 2.0 per cent to $2.08, and Binance Coin (BNB) improved by 0.9 per cent to $894.14, while the US Dollar Tether (USDT) and the US Dollar Coin (USDC) were flat at $1.00 each.
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