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What You Need to Know About Jae Kwon’s Cosmos (ATOM) Blockchain
The blockchain network Cosmos is unlike any other that has been created so far, offering interoperable solutions across many digital decentralized protocols.
Ethereum Releases Validator Launchpad for ETH 2.0 Testnet
Ethereum software developers finally released the validator launchpad for ETH 2.0, which enabled users to participate in the testnet’s Proof-of-Stake.
KuCoin Rolls Out $100m Creators Fund to Accelerate Web3 Growth, Empowering Early-Stage NFT Projects
Crypto exchange KuCoin has announced a $100 million “Creators Fund” to enhance the Web3 ecosystem and support early-stage NFT projects in sports, arts, GameFi, and celebrities.
Warren Buffett Ditches US Dollar, Bitcoin Price Set to Soar
As the US dollar keeps plummeting, Max Keiser revealed that Warren Buffett has moved his assets out of the US market, setting Bitcoin for its next surge.
Taiwanese Singer Chen Lingjiu Implicated in JPEX Cryptocurrency Fraud Case
Taiwanese singer Chen Lingjiu faces fraud case involving JPEX, highlighting potential pitfalls of celebrity endorsements in cryptocurrency investments and the need for robust regulatory measures.
Russia's Apex Bank Grants DFA License to Atomyze, the Nation's First
The Central Bank of Russia (CBR) has granted the Digital Financial Assets (DFA) services license to Atomyze LLC, the first startup in the country to become an asset manager.
Bitcoin Halving: Everything You Need to Know in 5 Minutes
In May 2020, Bitcoin is expected to experience its third halving in history. Bitcoin halving refers to the halving of Bitcoin block rewards, which occurs once every 210,000 blocks created (approximately every 4 years).
Kraken Amplifies European Footprint with BCM Acquisition
US-based cryptocurrency exchange, Kraken, has announced its plan to acquire Dutch crypto broker BCM as part of its European expansion strategy. This move aligns with the new MiCA regulatory framework, promoting a favorable investment climate in the region. The acquisition will enhance Kraken's service offerings and market position in the Netherlands.
US authorities are pursuing Bitzlato's creator
Bitzlato creator Anatoly Legkodymov is arrested. The U.S. Department of Justice launched a "significant worldwide cryptocurrency enforcement action" against the corporation. "Primary money laundering issue" authorities confiscated its website.
Spain’s Regulator Clashes with Popular Football Star Andres Iniesta Over Binance’s Tweet
Spain’s market regulator has confronted Andres Iniesta over his public acknowledgement he is getting started trading cryptocurrency on Binance platform.
Coinbase NFT launches new creator hub
Coinbase NFT has launched a new "Creator Hub" that provides a slew of tools for NFT creators to launch and market a collection.
Singapore's MAS Unveils Stablecoin Regulatory Framework
Singapore's MAS releases a regulatory framework for stablecoins after public consultation in 2022. It aims to ensure value stability and sets key requirements for issuers.
Crypto Exchange Blockchain.Com Joins Exchanges in Italy
Blockchain.com said the registration is an important part of its global plans to provide services across Europe and across the world, as the exchange just get approval from the Italian regulator.
Paradigm Challenges SEC's Authority in Lawsuit Against Binance
Paradigm, a venture capital firm, has filed an amicus brief in the SEC's ongoing lawsuit against cryptocurrency exchange Binance. The brief criticizes the SEC's approach, arguing that the agency is overstepping its regulatory boundaries. Paradigm emphasizes that the SEC's actions could have far-reaching implications for securities law.
Satoshi Island Secures Endorsement from Vanuatu PM to Build Bitcoin Island
Satoshi Island Limited, the startup that is committed to building the crypto capital of the world as a smart city in Vanuatu, has announced it has secured approval for its project from the Prime Minister of Vanuatu.
Conflux to Deploy Uniswap v3 on Network
Conflux plans to deploy Uniswap v3 on its network, offering access to millions of potential new users in the Chinese and Asian markets. The move comes after the Uniswap v3 code license expired, allowing developers to fork the protocol and deploy their own decentralized exchange. Conflux has experienced a spike in traffic in the first quarter of 2023 and has a market capitalization of nearly $1 billion.
Cboe Digital Set to Launch Bitcoin and Ether Futures Trading in January 2024
Cboe Digital, the first US-regulated crypto native exchange, will launch Bitcoin and Ether futures trading, enhancing capital efficiency and market liquidity.
China’s Central Bank Reveals First Cohort of its FinTech Regulatory Sandbox Pilot
The Chinese central bank’s Shanghai headquarters has recently revealed the Shanghai FinTech Innovation regulatory sandbox application list. The People’s Bank of China’s (PBoC) Shanghai branch is currently soliciting opinions from the public on eight applications to be included in the FinTech innovation supervision pilot.
UN Research Unveils Bitcoin's Environmental Toll Beyond Carbon Emissions
A UN study reveals Bitcoin mining's significant environmental impact, including carbon emissions, water and land damage, and heavy reliance on fossil fuels. It calls for urgent regulatory and technological interventions to promote a sustainable digital currency ecosystem.
Twitter introduces content creator subscriptions
Twitter now allows content creators to monetize their posts through subscriptions, offering exclusive content to paying followers. Creators can keep 97% of revenue up to $50,000, with a revenue split of 80% after. Twitter has partnered with Stripe to process payments and will use AI to combat misinformation.
FTC Settles with Voyager Digital Over Misleading FDIC Claims, Former CEO Charged
The FTC settles with Voyager Digital, barring it from handling consumer assets post allegations of misleading FDIC insurance claims. The settlement highlights regulatory efforts to ensure transparency in the crypto industry amid a broader crackdown on deceptive practices.
Philippines Spearheads ASEAN AI Regulatory Framework
Philippines' Congress Speaker Martin Romualdez plans to introduce an AI regulatory framework to ASEAN during its chairmanship in 2026, focusing on digitization, cybersecurity, and managing generative AI in economic policies.
Ripple CTO Advocates for Community Consensus on XRP Ledger's AMM Feature Integration
Ripple's CTO, David Schwartz, stresses the importance of community consensus for integrating the Automated Market Maker (AMM) feature on the XRP Ledger. Through discussions on X (formerly Twitter), Schwartz outlines a methodical approach to addressing concerns and urges validators to support the amendment only after achieving community agreement. The AMM feature, seen as a significant stride in decentralized finance on XRPL, was introduced in rippled version 1.12.0 alongside a potential clawback feature aimed at legal liability protection for developers. Schwartz's engagement exemplifies a balanced approach to evolving XRPL while preserving its decentralized character.
Stellar (XLM) Development Foundation Delays Protocol 20 Upgrade Due to Core Bug
The Stellar Development Foundation has postponed the vote on Protocol 20, initially set for January 30, following the discovery of a bug in Stellar Core v20.1.0. The decision was made to ensure ecosystem readiness and broad consensus, with the new vote date to be determined after the bug fix release, expected within the next two weeks.
Ethereum Founder Vitalik Buterin Proposes Tweaks to Improve Decentralization and Reduce Consensus Overhead
Vitalik Buterin, the founder of Ethereum, has proposed changes to the network's staking model aimed at improving decentralization and reducing the consensus layer's computational burden. The proposal includes the introduction of a two-tiered staking system involving node operators and delegators. Buterin suggests that these changes could significantly reduce the number of signatures required for consensus, thereby making it easier for more people to participate in the network's validation process.
UK Court Rules Against Craig Wright's Claims of Being Satoshi Nakamoto
A UK judge has ruled that Craig Wright, who claimed to have written the Bitcoin whitepaper, is not the elusive Satoshi Nakamoto.
Lido Finance Halts Operations on Solana Following Community Consensus
Lido Finance is discontinuing its operations on Solana blockchain following a community consensus within its DAO. The decision, revealed on October 16, 2023, comes after a proposal highlighting the unsustainable financials of Lido on Solana. Despite this cessation, Lido expresses continued optimism for Solana's ecosystem.
Reddit to Discontinue Blockchain-Based Community Points Program
Reddit is discontinuing its blockchain-based Community Points program due to scalability issues, moving towards more scalable rewards programs. Despite initial promise, high transaction fees and bandwidth limitations on Ethereum led to a transition to Arbitrum Nova in 2022. However, scaling challenges persisted, prompting the phase-out by early November 2021. The termination caused a significant drop in associated token values. Reddit now focuses on other community incentive programs like the Moderator Rewards Program and the Contributor Program.
Bittrex to Shut Down U.S. Platform
Bittrex will close its U.S. platform on April 30, citing the current regulatory and economic environment. Customer funds are safe and available for withdrawal. The shutdown will not affect Bittrex Global, which will remain open for trading.
Brazil’s Securities Market Regulator Targets Mercado Bitcoin over Token Sale
Brazil's regulator has ordered Mercado Bitcoin, the largest local crypto exchange, to provide information on fixed-income tokens the exchange has issued over the last two years.
Bitcoin ETF Approval Expected to Propel Market Influx
The fervor surrounding a US-regulated spot Bitcoin ETF is palpable, with its approval expected to significantly bolster Bitcoin's market adoption. Addressing the current inefficiencies in Bitcoin investment, a spot ETF promises cost efficiency, enhanced liquidity, ease of access, and regulatory compliance. The formal recognition by regulators and established financial brands could further fuel Bitcoin's market acceptance. The estimations indicate a substantial market influx post ETF approval, not just within the US but potentially extending to global markets, laying the groundwork for a robust 2024 for Bitcoin, as per the analysis by Charles Yu of Galaxy.
Breaking: Binance Sells Russian Operations to CommEX, Exits Market
Binance has announced the sale of its entire Russia business to CommEX, citing compliance issues as the primary reason for the exit. The transition process for existing Russian users is expected to take up to one year, with no financial strings attached to the deal for Binance.
Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? Elon Musk's Latest Guess Comes as No Surprise
Elon Musk emphatically noted that Satoshi might just be Nick Szabo, a computer scientist, legal scholar, and cryptographer known for his digital contracts and digital currency research.
What is Bitcoin Ordinals?
Bitcoin Ordinals, introduced in January 2023 by Casey Rodarmor, are a way to inscribe digital content on the Bitcoin blockchain.
Orbs Releases Smart Contract for Validators in TON Blockchain
Orbs has released a new smart contract, called the single nominator, designed for validators in the Telegram Open Network (TON) blockchain. The contract allows validators to have an isolated cold wallet for securing their validation process, enhancing their independence, security, and protection against gas-spending attacks.
UK Court of Appeal Examines Copyright Claims over Bitcoin File Format
UK Court of Appeal reviews Dr. Craig Wright's claim of copyright infringement over the Bitcoin File Format. Wright alleges he is Bitcoin's creator, 'Satoshi Nakamoto'. The case's outcome could impact digital asset copyrights.
Australian Tax Office Requests Crypto Investors Follow the Rules
The Australia Tax Office wants crypto investors to accurately declare their assets for appropriate taxation.
Singapore Regulators and Banks Develop Crypto Customer Screening Standards
Singapore's monetary authority and police forces are collaborating with traditional banks to optimize their procedures for opening accounts for digital asset service providers. After six months, results and conclusions for risk management and due diligence will be published. The guidelines will cover stablecoins, NFTs, and transferable gaming or streaming credits, with banks reserving the right to make decisions based on their own risk assessment.
Animoca Brands subsidiary Forj Unveils $APE Accelerator to Boost ApeCoin Ecosystem
Forj, under Animoca Brands, has inaugurated the $APE Accelerator to bolster the ApeCoin ecosystem. The accelerator is now open for applications, inviting innovative Web3 projects to leverage the platform and connect with a substantial ApeCoin community. The initiative underscores a community-driven approach to enhance the utility and value of ApeCoin.
ING Bank-Led Security Token-Focused Project Pyctor Was Selected by UK's FCA for its Regulatory Sandbox
Led by ING Bank, in collaboration with ABN AMRO, BNP Paribas Securities Services, Invesco US, Société Générale – Forge, State Street, and others have launched a digital asset project — Pcytor.
UK’s Financial Regulator Seeks to Hire Crypto Specialist to Spearhead Digital Asset Regulations
UK’s financial regulator has posted a job listing for a potential candidate with strong crypto knowledge. The recruitment could be an indication that the agency is set to provide higher degree of regulatory scrutiny of digital assets and possible abuses.
Pablo Escobar’s Drug Runner Yasutaka Nakamoto "Could be" Satoshi Nakamoto
Who is Yasutaka Nakamoto? Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? Are they the same person – Olof Gustaffson believes that Yasutaka had the technical knowledge of creating Bitcoin, as he has had extensive experience with microprocessors and semiconductors. Roberto Escobar, brother of the drug kingpin Pablo Escobar has launched a fork of the Bitcoin blockchain, known as “Dietbitcoin,” in 2019, which later on relocated to Ethereum’s ERC-20 standard. Roberto Escobar claimed that he has encountered a US government agent posing as Satoshi Nakamoto, which he reached the conclusion that the US government created Bitcoin. He further believes that the US government will one day crash the market completely by selling all of Nakamoto’s Bitcoins.
Massive Atomic Wallet Hack Revealed: Over $35M Stolen across Multiple Cryptocurrencies
On-chain investigator ZachXBT has reported a significant security breach on Atomic Wallet, a leading non-custodial decentralized wallet wallet. The hacker targeted various cryptocurrencies, managing to steal more than $35 million across different chains, according to ZachXBT's updates on Twitter.
Ripple CEO Urges US Regulators to Embrace Crypto as Country Risks Falling Behind China
CEO of Ripple, Brad Garlinghouse, has disclosed how China has taken the lead in blockchain and crypto as the US risks losing out.
Discover Smodin: The All-in-One AI Writing Tool
Smodin is an AI writer and rewriter platform used by over 100,000 businesses and 30,000 universities worldwide, offering tools like AI-powered research, translation, and homework solvers, with various pricing plans.
Polygon Co-Founder Proposes zk-Powered ApeChain
A proposal for developing a dedicated Layer-2 chain, ApeChain, to support ApeCoin ecosystem’s growth was made within the ApeCoin DAO community by Sandeep Nailwal of Polygon Labs. The initiative aims to solve scalability issues and promote ApeCoin-integrated projects through a collaborative effort between ApeCoin DAO and Polygon Labs. Estimated at an annual cost of $200,000 funded by ApeCoin DAO, the proposal garnered support as well as raised concerns and queries from the community regarding its financial, technical, and strategic aspects.
Bitcoin Forms “Ascending Triangle”, Tries to Rebound Above $35,000 Crucial Level
Bitcoin has formed an ascending Triangle thus hinting a bullish trend. The cryptocurrency will need to reclaim the $35,000 level as resistance to avoid bull-ending price action.
Upcoming Movie Storyline Focuses on Anonymous Bitcoin Creator Satoshi Nakamoto
Decrypted, a movie speculated to be released by December 1, 2020, focuses on Satoshi Nakamoto’s persona as part of their story outline.
Nigerian Securities Commission to Release Official Guidelines on Crypto Regulations
The Nigeria Securities and Exchange Commission has announced a proposed crypto regulation guideline.
Federal Reserve's Bowman Discusses Digital Currency Innovations Amid CBDC Debate
Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman, in a discussion at Harvard Law School, explored the evolving digital payment landscape, touching on CBDC, stablecoins, and the necessity for a robust regulatory framework. While recognizing the potential of digital assets, she emphasized a cautious approach, underscoring the importance of continued research and international collaboration to navigate the digital transformation responsibly.
South Koreans transacted $4.3 billion through illegal crypto exchanges
In 2022, South Koreans transacted $4.3 billion through illegal crypto exchanges, comprising almost 70% of all illicit money traffic captured by officers. The transactions aimed to purchase foreign virtual assets to sell in the country later due to the South Korean regulatory regime isolating the local market.
Binance Crypto Withdrawals Spike Before CFTC Accusations
Almost a billion dollars in cryptocurrency was withdrawn from Binance shortly before the US CFTC accused the exchange of regulatory violations. The total amount withdrawn from multiple platforms in the 12 hours preceding the indictment was almost $1.5 billion, with over half of that amount coming from Binance. Despite the withdrawals, Binance still holds over $63 billion worth of cryptocurrency assets.
Coinbase Amplifies Anti-Terrorism Financing Measures Through Blockchain Analytics
Coinbase, on October 17, 2023, outlined its robust measures to curb terrorism financing and other illicit activities through a rigorous compliance framework and blockchain analytics. The discourse emphasizes the importance of regulatory clarity in the U.S to minimize offshore risks associated with digital assets. With a dedicated team and technological tools, Coinbase demonstrates a proactive approach in maintaining the integrity of the crypto ecosystem.
SEC Files Application to Compel Elon Musk's Compliance with Subpoena
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has filed an application to compel Tesla CEO Elon Musk to comply with an administrative subpoena. The SEC is investigating Musk's 2022 Twitter stock purchases and his related statements and SEC filings. Despite initially agreeing to testify, Musk later refused to comply with the subpoena, prompting the SEC to seek court intervention.
CME Group Proposes Direct Crypto Derivatives Trading to Regulators
CME Group is now proposing a new approach to crypto derivatives. The new approach could signal big structural shifts for traditional financial derivatives away from intermediaries.
Binance CEO Emphasizes Importance of Understanding Crypto for Proper Regulation
During a fireside chat at the Hong Kong Web3 Festival, Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) discussed the importance of regulators having a deep understanding of the crypto industry to properly regulate it. He emphasized the need for regulatory clarity and engagement with regulators. CZ also suggested that government efforts to restrict traditional financial markets may push more people towards crypto, ultimately leading to mass adoption.
Bitzlato Partially Restores User Access
Bitzlato, a Russia-linked cryptocurrency exchange, has enabled its users to withdraw up to 50% of their assets stuck on the platform due to enforcement from the United States and Europol, with the help of a Telegram bot.
Crypto Exchange Refuses to Give Up Dissident Names to Belarus Government
Belarus government officials have demanded that a Kuna.io crypto exchange disclose the names of potential dissidents that have leveraged their services.
US Regulator Crypto Custody Proposal Opposed
The US SEC's proposal to amend its custody rule has faced opposition from the Blockchain Association and Andreessen Horowitz, who have filed letters criticising the rule's impact on investment advisers and its potential to curtail investment in digital assets. The SEC's proposal would apply more stringent rules on investment advisers in the custody of assets, including crypto.
Andreessen Horowitz Appoints FinCEN Exec Michele Korver as Head of Regulatory
Michele Korver brings a wealth of digital currency expertise, and will therefore help coordinate efforts to maximize a16z’s contribution to the crypto and web3 projects.
Bitcoin is a Freedom Friendly Type of Currency- Sen Cynthia Lummis
Senator Cynthia reiterated the role of Bitcoin as a freedom tool against oppressive governments.
Financial Stability Board Finalizes Global Crypto Asset Regulatory Framework
FSB finalizes a global regulatory framework for crypto assets, aiming for consistent regulation. The framework includes high-level recommendations for crypto-asset activities and stablecoins.
Boosting Trade Efficiency: XRPL's fixReducedOffersV1 Upgrade
The XRPL's fixReducedOffersV1 amendment, which has achieved 80% consensus, is in a two-week activation countdown, enhancing DEX functionality and addressing reduced offers in order books.
Did Satoshi Nakamoto Move His Bitcoin Yesterday? No, But Craig Wright Shot Himself in the Foot
On Wednesday a Twitter bot reported that a Bitcoin transaction came from a wallet that possibly belonged to Satoshi Nakamoto, the anonymous creator of the network and author of the Bitcoin whitepaper. Oh and Craig Wright trips over own story,
Ripple on the Brink of Decisive Win as SEC Legal Battle Nears End
Ripple is expected to win a legal battle with the SEC, potentially settling $20 million or less. This victory is expected due to legal perspectives and the recent Second Circuit Court ruling, impacting digital currency regulation.
Mysterious Bitcoin Inscriptions: A Puzzle in Raw Binary Data
A mysterious Bitcoin user inscribed 9MB of raw binary data on the blockchain, spending over $64K. The encrypted data's purpose remains unknown, stirring speculation in the crypto world.
South Korean Gaming Giant Wemade Faces $41 Million Tax Bill for Crypto Operations
South Korean gaming firm Wemade faces a $41 million tax bill for its crypto operations, highlighting the complexities of regulatory compliance in the blockchain gaming industry.
IMF Proposes Framework to Assess Crypto Asset Risks
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released a working paper that delves into the macrofinancial risks tied to crypto assets. The paper, part of the IMF's Working Papers series, proposes a framework aimed at aiding policymakers and regulatory authorities in understanding and tracking systemic risks from the crypto sector. This framework is crucial as traditional financial tools are not well-suited for assessing crypto-related risks.
Beyond Startups—Championing for an Ecosystem to Drive Blockchain Forward
Tribe Accelerator is Singapore’s first government-backed blockchain accelerator, on a mission to bridge the gap between blockchain startups and the traditional world. Yi Ming Ng, the Managing Director at Tribe Accelerator, believes that blockchain is beneficial to a lot of businesses from different industries. However, there has been a lot of fear and speculation around cryptocurrencies in the traditional corporate world.
German Crypto Firm USI Tech Founder Charged in $150 Million Fraud Scheme
Horst Jicha, founder of USI Tech, has been charged with defrauding investors of $150 million in a fraudulent crypto scheme, marking a significant development in regulatory action against crypto-related crimes.
Binance.US Struggles to Find Banking Partner in the U.S.
Binance.US is facing challenges in finding a bank partner to serve as a fiat on-ramp and off-ramp for its clients in the United States, following the recent failures of Silvergate and Signature Bank. The regulatory crackdown on banks with crypto clients is another factor contributing to the exchange's struggles.
Hong Kong Crypto Exchange HKVAEX Announces Phased Shutdown
HKVAEX, a Hong Kong-based cryptocurrency exchange, has initiated a phased suspension of their services, leading to a complete shutdown by May 1, 2024.
3AC Co-Founder Reappears, Blames Liquidators for 'Baiting'
Su Zhu, Three Arrows Capital co-founder, has revealed fresh details behind the collaboration between the prominent hedge fund firm and its liquidators.
dYdX to Exit Canadian Market Amid Regulatory Restrictions
Cryptocurrency derivatives exchange, dYdX, is withdrawing its services from Canada due to increased regulatory restrictions. The exchange will halt new user onboarding on April 7 and move existing users to "close-only mode" on April 14.
Dezgo: Comprehensive Guide to the AI-Powered Text-to-Image Generator
Dezgo is an AI-powered text-to-image converter that generates high-quality NSFW images from word descriptions, offering customizable settings, controlled text-to-image, and inpainting features for various purposes.
US Senator Demands Answers from Twitter Over Massive Bitcoin Hack Incident
US senator Josh Hawley has urged Twitter to cooperate with fed agencies and take necessary measures to secure the social media site before the cyber hacking accounts of celebrities, politicians, technology moguls, and major firms in an apparent Bitcoin scam expands further.
R3 Highlights the Transformative Potential of Tokenization in Finance
R3, a leading enterprise blockchain software firm, discusses the transformative potential of tokenization in the financial sector. The company emphasizes the need for regulatory frameworks and industry standards to unlock the full benefits of digital assets. According to a June 2023 report from Bernstein, $5 trillion in assets could be tokenized in the next five years, offering significant opportunities for market participants.
Australia Tax Office Says Crypto Under Focus This Tax Season
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has highlighted four major problem areas it wants to focus on this taxation season, and digital currencies are prominently featured.
US House to Hold Joint Hearings on Digital Assets
The House Financial Services Committee, Agriculture Committee, and subcommittees will hold joint hearings in May on establishing a bill to provide regulatory clarity to the digital asset ecosystem. The hearings will focus on addressing the market structure and striking a balance between protecting consumers and promoting responsible innovation. The goal is to report a bill out that deals with the capital raising piece for digital assets, all the way through to how a product can go from a securities regime to commodities regime, while preserving rights around products that do not fit into either regime.
Optimism (OP) Prepares for Canyon Hardfork Across Superchain Testnets on November 14
OP Labs Team announces Canyon hardfork for Superchain testnets, November 14, incorporating Shanghai and Capella updates, bug fixes, and EIP-1559 changes. Node operators must upgrade systems.
InfStones aims to simplify ETH staking through Shappella upgrade
InfStones is offering a new Ethereum validator service that allows users to launch validator nodes for staking with just a few clicks. The platform is targeting both users and institutional investors by providing a simpler way to stake their tokens, with the added benefit of being able to stake less than 32 ETH after the Shappella upgrade. However, there has been a slight decline in Ethereum staking deposits due to regulatory pressure and the upcoming upgrade.
US Crypto Crackdown Could Stifle Innovation and Weaken Dollar
The recent Wells notice issued by the SEC to Coinbase, along with other legal threats against crypto firms, has raised concerns among industry experts that the US crackdown on cryptocurrencies could stifle innovation and weaken the dollar. Some believe that the regulatory environment in the US is driving jobs, investment, and innovation offshore, to countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, and potentially Australia.
Microsoft Reveals Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Azure Cobalt CPU
Microsoft unveiled Azure Maia 100 AI Accelerator and Azure Cobalt CPU, optimized for AI and cloud computing, with deployment scheduled for early 2024.
John Deaton Files Amicus Brief in Support of Coinbase's Appeal Against SEC
John Deaton, a Republican lawyer and Senate candidate, has submitted an amicus brief supporting Coinbase's appeal against the SEC, arguing that labeling token transactions as securities is impractical.
BBC Chair Linked to Russian-sanctioned Subsidiary Blockchain Platform
Richard Sharp, Chairman of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), has been shown to have ties with a Russian-sanctioned sub-company.
Cosmos Hub Votes to Reduce ATOM Inflation Rate to 10%
Cosmos Hub proposes reducing ATOM inflation rate from 14% to 10%, lowering annual staking yield from 19% to 13.4%, optimizing security expenses and introducing a liquid staking module.
Binance set to reenter Japanese crypto market
Binance is set to reenter the Japanese crypto market after acquiring the regulated crypto exchange platform, Sakura Exchange Bitcoin (SEBC). The SEBC platform will terminate its current crypto exchange and brokerage services by May 31, 2023, and reopen as Binance Japan in June. Binance had to fold its Japan operations in 2018 after regulatory warnings, but has since mended relations with regulators and reentered other markets through acquisitions.
Rarible's NFT Aggregator Allows Free Price Comparisons across Marketplaces
The NFT aggregator of Rarible will allow visitors in the marketplace to browse listings across several marketplaces and compare prices.
Firstblock Introduces Firstblock Labs To Support The Next Generation Of Web3 Innovators
FirstBlock, a leading blockchain solutions provider, announces the launch of FirstBlock Labs, a virtual laboratory designed to support and help Web3 startups thrive in the rapidly growing blockchain industry.
Crypto.com Lands in Italy by Acquiring Operating License
Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange Crypto.com has landed registration and regulatory approval from the Organismo Agenti e Mediatori (OAM) in Italy.
Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan Discusses Amended Spot Bitcoin ETF Application
Matt Hougan, CIO of Bitwise, used a Twitter thread to elaborate on the firm's amended spot Bitcoin ETF application. He emphasized the need to prove that the CME bitcoin futures market is a "regulated market of significant size" for surveillance purposes and highlighted Bitwise's history of original research in their ETF filings.
Coinbase Reveals Firm Received Around 2000 Subpoenas From Authorities Over Customer's Data
Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has revealed in its newly released transparency report that it got served a sum total of 1,914 government requests.
Tether Implements Wallet-Freezing Policy Aligned with US Regulations
Tether's wallet-freezing policy, in line with US OFAC regulations, is a proactive approach to cybercrime, setting a new standard in the crypto industry.
ISPs Must Ban Crypto Websites Or Risk Legal Action In Nepal
Nepal's telecoms authority ordered ISPs to prohibit all bitcoin trading websites. The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) ordered ISPs and email providers to block crypto-related websites, applications, and networks on Jan. 8. Promoting crypto is also illegal.
Gensler Alleged Crypto Hypocrisy
Gary Gensler, head of the US securities regulator, is facing accusations of hypocrisy from the crypto community after a 2018 video surfaced of him stating that cryptocurrencies are commodities or cash and not securities. Several crypto leaders have expressed their shock and disgust at Gensler's apparent change of stance on the matter.
Chinese Tech Company Tencent Launches Blockchain Accelerator
Tencent, the Chinese multinational conglomerate, on April 29, 2020, announced the launch of its new blockchain accelerator which is now open to both mature and early-stage blockchain-based startups. The 'Tencent Blockchain Accelerator' will allow the selected projects to reap special benefits like four mentoring meetings every year, a rich network of industry experts, and the opportunity to learn more about the international blockchain community.
Satoshi Nakamoto Will be the World’s Richest Person if Bitcoin Hits $181,000
Crypto analyst Joseph Young has said that Satoshi Nakamoto will be the world's richest person if Bitcoin was to hit $181,000.
The Most Unworkable State Law
An Illinois senator has presented a law that would compel crypto node operators, miners, and validators to reverse transactions if ordered by the court, even though it's impossible.
Ethereum's Shapella Upgrade Complete
Ethereum's Shapella upgrade has been successfully completed, allowing validators to withdraw their staked Ether on the Beacon chain. Over 44% of active validators have the ability to request partial or full withdrawals, with most withdrawals being for staking rewards. Major exchanges have announced their support for ETH unstaking, with several already processing withdrawal requests.
Atomicals Market Addresses Security Breach and Announces Compensation Measures
Atomicals Market has implemented measures to restore user trust and enhance platform security following a significant security breach, emphasizing community engagement's crucial role in protocol's future.
Mastercard Launches NFT-Gated Artist Accelerator Program
Mastercard announced a new artist accelerator program, which is NFT-gated and only accessible to holders of its Mastercard Music Pass NFT. The program is a collaboration with Polygon and offers free access to educational materials, unique AI tools, and other experiences.
COPA Sues Self-Declared Bitcoin Founder Craig Wright
Cryptocurrency Open Patent Alliance (COPA), an initiative created by Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey’s payment company Square, has moved to sue Craig Wright over the Bitcoin white paper.
Ignite Floats $150m Accelerator Fund for Web3.0 Projects
Ignite, the blockchain development startup in charge of the Cosmos Network, has announced the launch of a $150 million Accelerator Fund to help fast-track the timing required for interoperability-focused projects to hit the market.
Bermuda’s Jewel Bank Receives Regulatory Approval to Run as Digital Asset Bank
Jewel Bank announces that it acquire licenses from a local regulator to become the first digital asset bank in the island nation.
Wallet of Satoshi Withdraws from the U.S. Market Amid Regulatory Challenges
Wallet of Satoshi withdraws from U.S. market, highlighting regulatory challenges faced by crypto service providers like GameStop and Binance, reflecting evolving U.S. cryptocurrency regulation landscape.
Protests Erupt as Alexander Lukashenko Wins Disputed Landslide Election in Crypto Forward Belarus
In Belarus, a highly contested election victory for longstanding President Alexander Lukashenko over Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has erupted in protests. Despite the dispute, the Soviet forged dictator’s stay of power may be good news for crypto.
Solana Network Experiences Slowdown in Block Production Following Upgrade
After validator software update, Solana network block generation slowed on Feb. 25.
ConsenSys Sued For IP Theft by Blockchain Startup from its Own Incubator
BlockCrushr, a Canadian blockchain firm has accused ConsenSys of stealing its intellectual property after it took part in a ConsenSys’ startup accelerator program.
Alchemy Pay Expands U.S. Footprint with Iowa Money Services License
Alchemy Pay, a prominent crypto-fiat payment gateway, has secured a Money Services License in Iowa, marking a significant expansion in the U.S. market and enhancing its global compliance portfolio.
North Korean Hackers Allegedly Behind $35 Million Cryptocurrency Heist
North Korean cybercriminals are the prime suspects in a recent cryptocurrency heist involving the theft of a substantial $35 million. Cybersecurity analysts shared this assessment with CNN on Tuesday, pointing to telltale signs in the tactics and techniques used in the attack.
IOSCO Proposes Measures To Probe Digital Marketing Risks
Concerning the rapid increase of risks in digital marketing, The International Organization of Securities Commissions, or IOSCO, has proposed some measures for its member countries to consider when deciding their policy and imposition approaches to retail online offerings and marketing.
Google Cloud Becomes Validator on Polygon's PoS Network
Google Cloud has joined Polygon's PoS network as a validator, adding an extra layer of security and credibility. The network already has over 100 validators, and Google Cloud's involvement is expected to further strengthen it. Users can monitor validator performance through a dedicated dashboard, where Google Cloud has staked 25,391.67 MATIC.
Rogue Validator Outsmarts MEV Bots, Resulting in a $25 Million Loss
MEV bots attempting sandwich trades lost $25 million worth of digital assets to a rogue validator. The loss included Wrapped Bitcoin, USD Coin, Tether, Dai, and Wrapped Ether. Blockchain security firm CertiK explained that the attack was due to the centralization of power with validators, making them vulnerable to such attacks.
Coinbase's Custodial Role in New Bitcoin Spot ETFs Marks a Crypto Milestone
Coinbase's role in the newly approved Bitcoin spot ETFs by the SEC marks a crucial advancement in cryptocurrency's integration into mainstream finance, bringing regulatory clarity and institutional investment opportunities.
Jump Crypto to Build New Validator Client for Solana
Following the growing security breaches on the Solana Blockchain network, Jump Crypto, a start-up known for many things in the digital currency ecosystem, from system redesign to investment, is set to help the protocol build a new validator client.
Soundraw: An AI-Powered Music Creator
Soundraw is an AI music generator that simplifies creating custom music for projects. It offers a range of genres, moods, and themes. It's used by content creators, game developers, and Artists.
Binance Survey: Institutional Investors Bullish on Crypto's Long-Term Prospects
Binance Research, in collaboration with Binance VIP & Institutional, has recently unveiled the results of their Institutional Crypto Outlook Survey. The study reveals a strong positive sentiment towards cryptocurrencies among institutional investors, with 63.5% expressing optimism for the next year and a striking 88% displaying a positive outlook for the next decade.
G20 Lays Regulatory Foundation to Accept Digital Payments by November Summit
G20 officials have announced that they will begin the preliminary regulatory groundwork for the group to accept digital payments.
Teaching with ChatGPT: OpenAI Issues Guidelines
A guide has been released for educators to integrate ChatGPT into classrooms, outlining its workings, limitations, and potential applications, emphasizing customization and human oversight.
He Yi Discusses Binance's Regulatory Strategy Amid Actions Against Binance and Zhao Changpen
In a public letter, He Yi, Co-founder of Binance, discusses the company's compliance strategy, which gains significance amidst a U.S. Department of Justice inquiry initiated on May 6, 2023, 13 SEC charges, and the company's recent exit from the Russian market.
FTX to Have Its European Operating License Suspended
Following its turmoil, the FTX’s European license is now said to be soon suspended by Cyprus regulators, according to a report.
Robinhood Seeks Sanctions Investigators ahead of Self-Custody Crypto Wallet Launch
Robinhood is hiring more specialists to work in the finance crimes compliance unit as the platform may be broadening its offerings.
ACE Exchange President Michael Wang Arrested
Michael Wang, President of ACE Exchange, was recently arrested on charges of fraud and money laundering, marking a significant event in the cryptocurrency industry.
Binance Stops Trading Of Stock Tokens amid increasing Global Regulatory Scrutiny
Binance has announced that it will suspend providing digital versions of stocks such as Coinbase, Apple, and Tesla, a time when the exchange faces rising pressure from regulators across the globe.
Conflux to Deploy Uniswap v3 on Its Blockchain
Conflux plans to deploy Uniswap v3 on its blockchain, which would offer access to millions of potential new users, particularly in China and Asian markets. This comes days after the Uniswap v3 code license expired, allowing developers to fork the protocol and deploy their own decentralized exchange. Conflux has a market capitalization of nearly $1 billion and has $45 million in total value locked on-chain. The network also announced a partnership with China Telecom to develop a blockchain SIM card.
SSV Network Unveils Jato-V2 Testnet
SSV.Network introduces Jato-V2, a new testnet ending Jato-V1, enhancing modularity, scalability, gas efficiency, and supporting Miner Extractable Value opportunities, with a 30% increase in duty execution.
Cardano’s Shelley Hard Fork Successful, Network on its Way to Become the World’s Financial Operating System
Cardano’s second developmental phase, Shelley has been successfully launched, the hard fork was successful in transforming Cardano into the Shelley era from Byron.The hard fork took Cardano from its Byron era to Shelley, to enable the network to become more decentralized and autonomous.
Binance Taps Former Deputy US Attorney as its First Deputy General Counsel
Binance exchange has announced a new appointment of Joshua Eaton as its Deputy General Counsel, admiring his legal profession and military background would help the exchange deal with compliance challenges.
Twitter Enables Monetization for Creators
Twitter users can now monetize their content via a new subscription service, allowing creators to charge followers a monthly fee for access to exclusive content. Twitter has partnered with Stripe to payout creators and will take a 3% cut up to $50,000, after which the revenue split drops to 80%. The feature is part of Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s ongoing effort to revamp the social media platform, which includes using artificial intelligence to detect and deter misinformation.
Vodafone Follows PayPal and Visa to Leave Facebook's Libra Association
Maybe what Facebook is not doing right that costs it to lose founding partners? Breaking news shows that Facebook’s Libra has lost another member of its council. This time round, Vodafone has confirmed to have left Libra Association.
Adam Back Denies Being Bitcoin Creator, Claims No One Knows Satoshi Nakamoto's True Identity
Adam Back clarifies that no one knows the Bitcoin creator and claims that Satoshi Nakamoto was a single person who programmed and coded Bitcoin.
Oobit Secures $25M in Series A Led byTether and CMCC Globa
Oobit, a mobile crypto payments app, has closed a $25 million Series A funding round, led by Tether, CMCC Global, Anatoly Yakovenko, and 468 Capital.
NFT Royalties Fall Short in Web3 Ecosystem
Loss of creator royalties in the NFT space could be higher than estimated, with Bored Ape Yacht Club and Mutant Ape Yacht Club experiencing shortcomings of around $20 million. This points to previous estimates of $35 million likely being too small. Despite efforts to enforce creator royalties, Boris Pevzner, co-founder and CEO of LiveArt, says the current system is not working as it should, potentially causing artists to lose interest in the industry.
US and UK Regulators to Take Action on Stablecoins after Terra’s Collapse
Stablecoins plunged below $1 this week. Major regulators have become concerned about such cryptocurrencies.
Slim Odds of Slashing and Best Practices to Avoid it
According to Ethereum core developer Superphiz, just 0.04% of ETH-staking validators have been eliminated.
Twitter introduces content creator subscriptions
Twitter now allows content creators to monetize their posts through subscriptions, offering exclusive content to paying followers. Creators can keep 97% of revenue up to $50,000, with a revenue split of 80% after. Twitter has partnered with Stripe to process payments and will use AI to combat misinformation.
Fantom Foundation Lowers Staking Threshold to 50,000 FTM
Fantom Foundation has reduced its validator staking requirement from 500,000 FTM to 50,000 FTM, aiming to boost network security and accessibility, following a June 2023 governance vote.
Paxful Unfreezes Majority of Accounts
Paxful, a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency marketplace, has unfrozen 88% of previously frozen user accounts after suspending operations. The remaining $4.4 million in frozen funds is in the hands of US financial regulators.
SSV Network Founder Drafted; Assurance of Continued Operations Given
The leadership of SSV Network, amidst a war crisis, shared personal experiences and reassured the community of ongoing operations. Founder Alon Muroch described the ground situation as a "massacre" after being drafted, while A. Matthias emphasized team unity and continued work towards delivering a robust Distributed Validator Technology (DVT) network. The scenario highlighted the resilience of decentralized blockchain networks in maintaining operational integrity under challenging circumstances.
Satoshi Nakamoto's last unfinished project inspires this new online marketplace disruptor in the crypto space
A fork of Bitcoin, known as Particl, has announced the completion of an eBay-style marketplace that’s been integrated into its wallet. Built using blockchain smart contracts, the marketplace is derived from an original concept first proposed by Satoshi Nakamoto.
Rollbit Shuts Down Degen EXchange and Rollbot.com Amid Regulatory Concerns
Rollbit has announced the discontinuation of its Degen EXchange and sister site Rollbot.com due to regulatory challenges and low user adoption. However, the company's core product, Rollbit.com, and its $RLB token functionality remain unaffected. The firm also hinted at exciting future releases.
Laser Digital Secures In-Principal Approval from Abu Dhabi Global Market
Laser Digital, Nomura's digital asset subsidiary, has received In-Principal Approval from Abu Dhabi Global Market's Financial Services Regulatory Authority. The approval allows the company to offer broker-dealer and asset management services in the UAE, subject to fulfilling specific conditions.
US Senator Challenges Apple and Google about Fraudulent Crypto Apps
Cryptocurrency scams remain a serious problem. U.S. Senator. Sherrod Brown requests app store operators, including Apple and Google, to crack down on the problem.
Mysterious $1.17 Million Bitcoin Transfer to Bitcoin Creator Nakamoto Wallet
A recent transaction of 27 BTC to a Satoshi Nakamoto wallet has raised interest in the cryptocurrency community, particularly considering the Genesis Block's 15th anniversary. This event celebrates Bitcoin's history and raises questions about its future and originator.
Australian Senator Andrew Bragg: Blockchain Can 'Rebuild Confidence' in Financial Services
Australian Liberal Senator Andrew Bragg has expressed optimism on the potential of blockchain technology to help ‘Rebuild Confidence’ in the financial services sector
Craig S. Wright Explores 'Code is Law' Paradigm in Digital Governance Debate
Dr. Craig Wright's blog post on "Open-Source Development" rekindles debate on "Code is Law" principle, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach balancing code precision with legal considerations.
Russian Investors File Class Action Against Atomic Wallet Following $100 Million Heist
Russian and CIS investors have filed a class action lawsuit against Atomic Wallet, claiming losses of around $12 million following a security breach in June. The lawsuit, coordinated by German lawyer Max Gutbrod and Moscow's Destra Legal, highlights concerns about the platform's security measures and the growing reliance on cryptocurrencies in Russia.
PrimeXBT Analysis: Bitcoin Hash Rate Sets New ATH, Fundamentals Scream Buy The Dip
In stocks, company profit margins and operating expenses are top priorities in fundamental analysis. Fundamental analysis in forex currencies could involve looking at each nation's GDP or country's political health. Commodity fundamental analysis looks at supply, demand, and environmental factors.
Trezor Hires Jan Andrascik as Chief Information Security Officer
In the new role, Jan Andraščík is tasked with protecting SatoshiLabs’ data, systems, and physical security.
Canada Tightens Crypto Asset Regulations for Public Investment Funds
The Canadian Securities Administrators propose regulatory changes for public investment funds handling crypto assets, focusing on custodianship standards and limiting direct crypto dealings to specific fund types.
ADGM Launches Pioneering DLT Foundations Regime
Abu Dhabi Global Market's Registration Authority has introduced the Distributed Ledger Technology Foundations Regulations 2023, a global legislative framework designed to facilitate token issuance, promote governance, and drive transparency in the crypto sector.
Japan's JCBA Submits Initial Proposal for IEO Regulatory Reform to JVCEA
JCBA submits an initial proposal for IEO regulatory reform to JVCEA, outlining four key agendas aimed at stabilizing the IEO market and enhancing user protection. The reform aims to make domestic IEOs more attractive than foreign exchanges.
Self-Acclaimed Bitcoin Inventor Craig Wright Vindicated in Kleiman Lawsuit
A federal jury in Miami has vindicated self-acclaimed Bitcoin (BTC) inventor Craig Wright in a lawsuit involving him and his late business partner, Dave Kleiman.
Cryptopia Users Win New Zealand Ruling Over Locked Cryptocurrency as High Court Declares them "Property"
Clients of Cryptopia exchange will finally get their funds back after a New Zealand high court classifies the rules that they are entitled to their funds.
Tech Mahindra Leverages IBM Blockchain For New Entertainment Royalties Platform
Indian multinational tech company, Tech Mahindra has announced the launch of a blockchain-based platform aimed at preserving the rights of video content generated by content creators and producers.
STEPN Integrates Apple Music into Web3 App
Apple and STEPN have collaborated to integrate Apple Music into the STEPN app, marking a second milestone following the Apple Pay integration. This move signifies the growing acceptance of Web3 apps and a step towards bridging the Web2 and Web3 divide, enhancing user experience, and signaling future collaborations between traditional and decentralized tech platforms.
Ethereum Devnet 10 Testing Paves Way Towards Mainnet
Recent devnet 10 testing on Ethereum revealed a stable network under normal conditions, although some bugs were identified. Stress-testing exhibited increased CPU and RAM usage on some clients. The conversation around forking timelines for testnets and transitioning to mainnet was initiated, with more discussions to follow in the upcoming ACDC meeting on November 9.
THORSwap Resumes Operations with Enhanced Security Measures to Combat Illicit Funds Transfer
THORSwap, a decentralized exchange (DEX) leveraging the THORChain protocol, resumed operations on October 13, following a temporary shutdown to address concerns of illicit funds transfer. The platform has enhanced its security measures, updated its terms of service, and partnered with an industry leader to prevent the movement of illicit funds. Although the move was met with mixed reactions from the community, it underscores THORSwap's commitment to providing a secure trading environment amid rising regulatory pressures in the DeFi sector.
Indian Crypto Exchanges Seek Clarity on Legal Status and Taxability from the Reserve Bank of India
Crypto exchanges and companies in India are still seeking regulatory clarity and tax status from the Reserve Bank of India following a Supreme Court ruling in favor of the crypto industry earlier this year. India’s Supreme Court reversed the ban placed by the central bank on financial institutions offering crypto-related banking services. It is two months after lifting the ban, crypto exchanges and firms are now seeking clarification regarding the nature of their operations.
Kraken Fights IRS Over Customer Information
Kraken is contesting the United States Internal Revenue Service's demand for critical exchange user information, citing it as an "unjustified treasure hunt." Kraken has requested federal court intervention, pointing out that the IRS has gone "far beyond" its intrusive summons. The fight against IRS is Kraken's response to the agency's February summons, which demanded additional user information to identify Kraken accounts that did at least $20,000 of cryptocurrency trading in any single year between 2016 and 2020.
Cointelegraph has launched an Accelerator program for innovative Web3 startups
The program aims to help Web3’s rising stars boost their media presence, community growth and brand awareness in exchange for project tokens.
LidoDAO is considering selling or staking its $30 million
LidoDAO, the decentralized autonomous organization behind Lido, is considering staking or selling its $30 million ETH treasury to meet unexpected market swings.
Binance US Faces SEC Accusations Over Alleged Securities Trading Violations
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has leveled a series of accusations against the US operations of cryptocurrency exchange Binance, casting a significant cloud over the future of the platform in the United States.
BlackRock Has No Plans for XRP ETF
BlackRock Inc., the world's largest asset manager, halts its plans for a spot XRP ETF due to ongoing regulatory uncertainties and concerns over XRP's legal status in the midst of the Ripple vs. SEC case.
FDIC to Offer Guidance on Crypto After it Understands its Associated Risks
FDIC's Martin Gruenberg said more guidance will be given to banks about crypto when it gains more understanding of its inherent risks
Hodlnaut Applies for Court Protection amid Liquidity Crises
Hodlnaut, a Singapore-based digital currency lending platform, has joined its counterparts in seeking out the protection of the courts with its recent application for Judicial Management.
Grayscale Investment Company Receives FINRA Approval to Trade Bitcoin Cash and Litecoin Publicly
US regulators have approved shares of Grayscale Investment’s Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash Trusts for public trading.
Circle Files with The US SEC Intends to Become a National Cryptocurrency Bank
Circle intends to become a full reserve national commercial bank as a part of the potential solution, the company explains its core services heavily rely on third parties that create business risks.
NYDIG Launches Wolf an Accelerator for the Lightning Network
NYDIG's parent company, Stone Ridge has launched a new accelerator designed for the Lightning Network
Solana (SOL) Validators Approve "Timely Vote Credits" Proposal to Accelerate Blockchain Transactions
Solana validators have approved a proposal called "Timely Vote Credits" to reduce consensus vote latency and incentivize timely votes, potentially speeding up blockchain transactions, before implementing the mechanism.
Visa Rolls Out Creator Program to Empower Artists with NFTs
Payment giant Visa has launched an initiative dubbed Visa Creator Program intended to help filmmakers, artists, fashion designers, and musicians revamp their businesses through non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
HK Legislative Council Member Advocates for Integrating Senior Economy with Web3
Johnny Ng discussed the senior economy's integration with the internet and Web3's potential to boost content creator earnings at the 2023 World Internet Conference, highlighting Hong Kong's growing interest.
MAS Completes CBDC Project Ubin Phase 5, Blockchain Sector Sees Major Growth Despite COVID-19
Sopnendu Mohanty, the Chief FinTech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced that Phase 5 of Project Ubin has been completed, and partners of the project are already working on a production in the payments space. A new report is to be expected in the next few days, which will “articulate the last phase of experimentation of Project Ubin.” He hinted that the production is related to exchange, settlement, and will be working on releasing production inspired by Project Ubin Phase 5.
Hong Kong's 2024 Budget Introduces 'Regulatory Sandbox' for Stablecoin Testing
Hong Kong to launch a 'regulatory sandbox' for testing stablecoin issuance and business models, as outlined in the city's 2024 budget plan.
Dee Templeton Joins OpenAI's Board Amidst Corporate Governance Overhaul
Microsoft's Dee Templeton joins OpenAI's board as a nonvoting observer amidst significant corporate governance changes following CEO Sam Altman's brief ouster and reinstatement.
Coinbase vs SEC: Legal Battle Heats Up
The US Court of Appeals has ordered the SEC to respond to Coinbase’s writ of mandamus within 10 days. The largest US cryptocurrency exchange filed a lawsuit in April requesting regulatory clarity, but has faced increased enforcement and warnings from the SEC, leading to a downgraded rating by Citigroup.
Japanese Advertiser Dentsu Offers Influential Manga Comic Critics Blockchain Rewards
A Japanese advertising behemoth, Dentsu has partnered with Kadowkawa ASCII Research Labs to help local content creators on popular streaming apps to gain recognition and have their work critiqued by the public.
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin Proposes Signature Reduction
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin proposes reducing the number of signatures for validators in the PoS system to simplify the system, address technical issues, and enhance network security.
US Senators Urge FTC to Address AI-Enabled Scams Targeting Older Americans
US Senators have written to the FTC, urging action against AI scams targeting older Americans, emphasizing the need for detailed data tracking and effective countermeasures.
US Bank Failures Shock Regulators
The New York Department of Financial Services and the US Federal Reserve Board have published their internal reviews on the handling of Signature Bank and Silicon Valley Bank's failures. The string of bank failures, including Silvergate Bank's voluntary liquidation, has prompted regulators to re-evaluate their supervision.
Is Ethereum's Move to PoS Really an Upgrade?
Proof-of-Work is a solution to the Byzantine Generals' Problem. Ethereum's move to PoS looks more like a downgrade into previous solutions that Satoshi Nakamoto tried to avoid.
Ethereum Beacon Chain Sees Over $2 Billion Worth of ETH Withdrawn in Four Days
Over 1 million ETH, worth $2.1 billion, has been withdrawn from Ethereum's Beacon Chain within the first four days of the Shapella hard fork, with nearly 87% of active validators now able to withdraw their staked Ether. Despite initial community uncertainty about the impact of Shapella on ETH's price, the first four days have resulted in close to a 10% rise, with much of the withdrawn stake being reinvested in the Beacon Chain for interest compounding purposes.
FTX.US, Founder Sam Bankman-Fried Are Under Probe by Texas Regulators
Texas Regulators are investigating FTX.US over its high-yield, interest-bearing accounts.
UK's Bank Regulator to Propose Rules for Digital Asset Issuance
The Prudential Regulatory Authority (PRA) in the United Kingdom is set to propose rules for issuing and holding digital assets, according to Vicky Saporta, executive director of the Prudential Policy Directorate at the Bank of England. The rules will be developed in compliance with the Basel III rules and the Financial Services and Markets (FSM) bill currently being considered by Parliament.
United States Financial Regulators Sign Onto the Global Financial Innovation Network
In a joint report released by the US Securities and Exchange Commission on 24th October 2019, four US financial watchdogs have joined the Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN).
Paxos Gets Nod to Operate Digital Payments Token Services in Singapore
It is a positive sign for Paxos as it means that the blockchain company is a compliant business and MAS is supportive to it.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse Criticizes Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton's Regulatory Approach
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse criticizes former SEC Chair Jay Clayton for his aggressive regulatory approach, citing hypocrisy based on a 2020 lawsuit against Ripple. The ongoing legal tussle and recent developments highlight the broader regulatory uncertainties in the crypto industry.
Dubai's VARA Appoints Matthew White as CEO
Dubai's VARA is appointing Matthew White as its new CEO, focusing on regulatory compliance in the cryptocurrency space, following a leadership transition.
Monero (XMR) Hits a Three-Year High
With the rapid development of the decentralized market, Monero has received widespread attention and has hit a 3-year high to celebrate the 7th anniversary.
Crypto Lending Firm Delio Faces Regulatory Sanctions for Compliance Failures in South Korea
South Korean crypto asset management firm Delio has been fined KRW 1.896 billion and suspended for three months by the Financial Services Commission's Financial Intelligence Unit due to non-compliance with financial transaction laws.
Meta Platform's CEO Gets Probed by Senators on Crime Combating Measures on its Apps
A group of U.S Senators wrote a letter to Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg on Thursday to inquire about strategies he is putting in place to mitigate the rise in fraud as a result of cryptocurrency use through Meta’s platforms such as Whatsapp, Facebook, and Instagram as reported by other social media platform
Sygnum Singapore Secures MPI License from MAS
Sygnum Singapore’s acquisition of a Major Payment Institution Licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore comes amidst a wave of similar regulatory approvals by entities like Coinbase, Blockchain.com, and Crypto.com. This development broadens Sygnum's service offerings and positions it strongly in a competitive yet regulated digital asset market landscape in Singapore, thereby potentially attracting a wider segment of institutional clientele.
Republican Senator Cynthia Lummis Bought Bitcoin for Value Store and Censorship Resistance
Republican Senator Cynthia Lummis is now bullish on Bitcoin, promises to educate her colleagues in Congress on Bitcoin, Financial innovation
Mastercard Amplifies Artist Exposure with Season 2 of Accelerator and Live Tour
Mastercard's Artist Accelerator enters its second season, collaborating with OnesToWatch to empower emerging artists with live tours and Web3 tech mentorship.
Crypto-Friendly Revolut under Pressure after UK Regulators Find Audit Flaws
Revolut has been flagged as being at risk of not meeting auditing requirements.
Hong Kong's VSFG Set to Pioneer Spot Bitcoin ETF in Q1 2024
Hong Kong's VSFG is set to launch a spot Bitcoin ETF in Q1 2024, aiming for $500 million in assets. This aligns with Hong Kong's regulatory shift towards cryptocurrency and its ambition to become a digital asset hub.
SEC Delays Decision on Invesco and Galaxy Digital's Ether ETF
The SEC extends the review period for the Invesco and Galaxy Digital's Ether ETF until February 6, 2024, signaling continued caution in cryptocurrency product approvals.
AI Nude Generators: Technology, Tools, and Privacy Concerns
AI nude generators are software tools that use deep learning models to create realistic nude images, including anime characters and mythical beings. These tools can be categorized into general AI image generators, inherent NSFW AI image generators, and dedicated AI nude or clothes remover tools. However, concerns about legality, security, and privacy arise from the potential misuse of these tools. Companies like Stability AI, SoulGen, OnlyFakes, DeepNudeNow, and DeepSukebe have secured funding for their open-source systems.
Crypto Bank Anchorage Cuts 20% of Workforce
Anchorage Digital has laid off 75 employees, citing regulatory uncertainty and market volatility. The crypto bank expressed confidence in the digital asset landscape but acknowledged headwinds for its business and the crypto industry.
Ripple Executives Cleared of SEC Charges in Landmark Decision
In a major development, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and Executive Chairman Chris Larsen were cleared of all charges by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This is the third legal victory for the executives and Ripple, leaving the crypto industry questioning the SEC's approach.
US Financial Regulators Aiming at How Banks Could Hold Bitcoin & Crypto Assets, Says FDIC Chairperson
Jelena McWilliams, the chairperson of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), has revealed that US financial Regulators are creating clearer regulations on how banks can engage in activities involving cryptocurrencies.
South Korean Regulators to Harden Punishments for Crypto Fraud Practices
South Korean legislature is mulling plans to tighten its grip on crypto fraud practices
Former Voyager Digital CEO Faces Fraud Charges Amid CFTC and FTC Crackdown
The CFTC and FTC have levelled fraud charges against former Voyager Digital CEO Stephen Ehrlich, spotlighting the case as a notable instance of regulatory enforcement within the digital asset sector. The charges underscore the market's inherent risks and the imperative for robust regulatory compliance to ensure investor protection.
Binance.US Distances Itself from Binance.com; CZ Steps Down as Chairman
Binance.US declares operational independence from Binance.com, reassures customers, and remains compliant with U.S. regulations, following a $4.3 billion settlement. Chairman Changpeng Zhao steps down.
40 German Banks Are Seeking Regulatory Approval to Offer Bitcoin Custody
Many German banks have filed a request to introduce a digital asset custody business. Germany’s Federal Financial Supervisory Authority, popularly identified as BaFin, has received over 40 applications from German banks interested in offering crypto custody services.
Solana CEO Denies Network Outages Caused by On-Chain Voting
Solana CEO Anatoly Yakovenko has refuted claims that Solana's network outages were caused by its on-chain voting system clogging its consensus layer. The CEO responded to a Twitter user's claims that the high volume of validator messages and on-chain votes were clogging the network, calling the theory "pure ignorance." While the root cause of the recent 20-hour network outage is still not clear, commentators have pointed out that there is likely no singular cause of the network outages.
How Blockchain Can Uphold Creators' Rights and Copyright Law
Blockchain shows its versatility once again by becoming the perfect enforcer for copyright law, ensuring that authors receive their due credit and royalties.
IBM and KAYA&KATO Leverage Blockchain to Trace Fabric Origins
Tech giant IBM has teamed up with KAYA&KATO, a textile manufacturer of workwear and uniforms, in developing a blockchain network aimed at revamping the fashion industry.
Fraudulent Ledger Live App in Microsoft Store Linked to $768K Cryptocurrency Theft
A fake Ledger Live app on Microsoft's App Store stole nearly $768K from the crypto community, involving Bitcoin and Ethereum transactions, raising concerns over app verification processes.
Solana (SOL) Foundation Entrusts Hackathons and Accelerator Programs to Colosseum
The Solana Foundation is transferring management of its hackathons and accelerator programs to Colosseum, aiming to enhance the Solana ecosystem with substantial funding and developer support.
Bitcoin Association Bestows First-Ever Satoshi Nakamoto Scholarship to PhD Student
Bitcoin Association, a leading global organization for Bitcoin business, has revealed its first-ever Satoshi Nakamoto Scholarship to a 2nd year Cambridge University Phd student undertaking human genomics. Robin Kohze is the beneficiary of the scholarship after he successfully took part in a series of blockchain competitions, whereby he emerged second at Bitcoin Association’s 2nd Bitcoin SV Hackathon.
Binance.US Struggles to Find a Bank Partner in the United States
Binance.US is facing challenges in securing a bank partner to serve as a fiat on-ramp and off-ramp for its clients in the United States. Recent regulatory crackdowns on banks with crypto clients, along with failed attempts to establish direct banking relationships, have left Binance.US without banking services.
FCA Restricts Rebuildingsociety.com, Impeding Binance's UK Compliance Efforts
The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has imposed restrictions on Rebuildingsociety.com Ltd, a peer-to-peer lending platform, impacting its recent partnership with crypto exchange Binance for complying with the FCA's marketing regime. The regulation mandates firms to ensure transparent and fair marketing, affecting Binance’s strategy to serve the UK market. The move showcases the FCA's stringent stance towards ensuring marketing compliance, especially within the crypto sector.
Co-Founder of AirBit Club Sentenced to 12 Years for Cryptocurrency Ponzi Scheme
Pablo Renato Rodriguez, co-founder of AirBit Club, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for orchestrating a global cryptocurrency pyramid scheme. Co-defendants await sentencing, and the group has been ordered to forfeit approximately $100 million in assets.
Russian Top Digital Bank Tinkoff Explores Crypto Investment Services
Despite Russia’s Central Bank imposed ban and restrictions on cryptocurrency usage in the country, Tinkoff bank is examining potential cryptocurrency investments services to offer to its clients.
Taiwan's Legislature Considers Virtual Asset Management Bill to Protect Consumers
The Taiwanese Legislature is deliberating on a new Virtual Asset Management Bill aimed at fostering better consumer protection and industry oversight. The bill, seen as moderate, outlines pragmatic mandates for VASPs while leaving room for further regulatory fine-tuning, marking a significant step in Taiwan’s evolving digital asset regulatory landscape.
India’s Telangana State Keeps the Ball Rolling with Blockchain-Centered Incubator
The administration of Telangana, a Southern Indian State, has announced the setting up of an incubator meant for startups in the blockchain technology field
Hong Kong Security Chief Vows to Hunt Down JPEX Crypto Scam Ringleaders
Hong Kong authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend the key operators behind JPEX, a cryptocurrency platform implicated in the city's largest alleged financial fraud. The police have arrested 15 individuals and seized assets worth HK$85 million ($10.8 million). Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po emphasized the need for a proper regulatory framework for Web3-related businesses.
Lesley O'Neill was Appointed as Binance.US Chief Compliance Officer
Lesley O’Neill's appointment as Binance.US Chief Compliance Officer marks a strategic response to heightened SEC scrutiny, emphasizing the crypto industry's shift towards compliance and regulatory adherence.
French Bank SocGen Obtains Regulatory Approval to Offer Crypto Assets Services
Société Générale now engages in regulated crypto-related business activities.
Cosmos (ATOM) Community Contemplates Zero Inflation for ATOM Token
Cosmos's StakeLab proposes reducing ATOM's minimum inflation to 0%, aiming to align with other blockchain models and address issues like token overproduction and selling pressure. Nearly 95% of the community supports this significant change.
The DeFi Smart Contract Automation Network Gelato Raised $11M in its Series A Funding
Gelato, a smart contract automation network focused on the Defi sector, announced that it has raised $11 million led by Dragonfly Capital in its Series A financing.
Greenpeace's Bitcoin Art Piece Praised by Supporters
Environmental group Greenpeace commissioned an art piece dubbed the "Skull of Satoshi" to highlight the climate impact of Bitcoin mining, but the piece has been praised by Bitcoin supporters who want to adopt it as their mascot. The 11-feet-tall skull features the Bitcoin logo and red laser eyes, with "smoking stacks" made of recycled electronic waste to represent the fossil fuel and coal pollution caused by Bitcoin mining.
Bitcoin's Future Looks Bright as Kanye West Decides to Run for President 2020
On July 4th, Kanye West expressed his wishes to run for President in the 2020 presidential race. This is exciting news for Bitcoin, as Kanye has on several occasions expressed his support for the cryptocurrency.
Nomura's Laser Digital Launches Ethereum Adoption Fund for Institutional Investors
Nomura's Laser Digital has launched an Ethereum Adoption Fund, focusing on institutional investors, with a strategy involving staking and regulated custody, aiming to increase institutional engagement in Ethereum investments.
Binance Responds to U.S. Senators Letter, Excludes Financial Data
Binance has responded to a letter from U.S. Senators sent earlier this month requesting information about the crypto exchange’s operations in the country, including its balance sheet. Despite omitting financial data from the letter, Binance reportedly sent the information to U.S. regulators. In the 14-page document, Binance's chief strategy officer, Patrick Hillman, addressed the exchange's compliance history and recognized previous mistakes while claiming the firm has built solid Know Your Customer and Anti-Money Laundering policies in recent years. However, the response failed to address the senators’ concerns about Binance’s lack of transparency.
Nasdaq to Launch Digital Asset Custody Services
Nasdaq is preparing to launch its custody services for digital assets by the end of Q2 2022, starting with Bitcoin and Ether. The exchange has applied for a limited-purpose trust company charter from the New York Department of Financial Services to oversee the new business and aims to eventually build a broad suite of services for its digital assets division. Its entry into the crypto market could potentially boost institutional investor confidence and pave the way for more traditional financial institutions to offer similar services.
Janet Yellen Urges Regulators to Move Fast on Regulating Stablecoin Rules
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen pushed top US financial regulators to speed up regulations of stablecoin cryptocurrencies.
Binance responds to US senators' request
Binance has responded to a letter from US senators requesting information about the exchange's operations in the US, but it did not provide the financial data requested. The exchange's chief strategy officer recognized past mistakes and emphasized the firm's compliance efforts, but failed to address the senators' concerns about transparency.
Zipmex Files for Bankruptcy Protection, Seeking Moratoriums from Third Party Creditors
Singapore-based crypto trading platform Zipmex has filed a moratorium for seeking bankruptcy protection from the local court. Some of its core activities have been suspended.
SEC's Gag Rule Faces Criticism: Commissioner Hester Peirce Calls for Reform
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has publicly disagreed with the agency's refusal to amend the 1972 gag rule, raising concerns over its impact on free speech and regulatory integrity. The rule, which prevents defendants from criticizing SEC allegations post-settlement, is being challenged for its constitutional implications.
GSR Secures Major Payment Institution Licence from Singapore's MAS
GSR, a global cryptocurrency trading firm, has received In-Principle Approval for a Major Payment Institution licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). The approval allows GSR's Singapore subsidiary, GSR Markets Pte. Ltd., to better serve the cryptocurrency community. The news comes a day after Coinbase Singapore announced its full licence, highlighting the competitive yet regulated crypto landscape in Singapore.
nChain CEO Departs Accusing Dr. Craig Wright of Fraud
Christen Ager-Hanssen resigns as nChain's Group CEO, alleging serious internal issues and a conspiracy to defraud shareholders. He accuses Dr. Craig Wright of deceiving courts about being Satoshi Nakamoto, leading to a significant reaction from the cryptocurrency community. Discussions also touch on Ager-Hanssen’s past involvement with Algorand and the implications of his revelations on the Bitcoin SV community.
Malaysia’s Financial Regulator Says Binance is Not Authorized to Operate in the Country
The Securities Commission (SC) of Malaysia, the country’s financial regulator, has announced that Binance cryptocurrency exchange is not unauthorized to operate in the country. The financial watchdog has, therefore, put the crypto exchange on the list of unlicensed companies.
Bittrex Global to End Trading on Dec 4, 2023
Bittrex Global, a Liechtenstein-based cryptocurrency exchange, will cease operations on December 4, 2023, following regulatory challenges and legal proceedings, requiring customers to convert U.S. dollar holdings.
FDIC Requires Potential Buyers of Failed U.S. Banks to Give Up Crypto Services
The FDIC has asked banks interested in acquiring failed U.S. lenders, Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, to submit bids by March 17. The authority will only accept bids from banks with an existing bank charter, prioritizing traditional lenders over private equity firms. The FDIC has also required any buyer of Signature to agree to give up all cryptocurrency business at the bank. This news comes amid concerns expressed by U.S. Representative Tom Emmer that the federal government is “weaponizing” issues around the banking industry to go after crypto.
Sean Patrick Maloney's OECD Role Amidst Crypto Advisory Background
Sean Patrick Maloney, after serving in the U.S. House and on Coinbase's Advisory Council, faces scrutiny over potential conflicts in his OECD ambassador role, signaling a pivotal moment for crypto regulation.
SEC Regrets Missteps in Debt Box Case: A Lesson in Legal Accountability
The SEC's acknowledgement of errors in the Debt Box case highlights the significance of accuracy and candor in legal proceedings, impacting regulatory practices in the cryptocurrency sector.
BSV founder Craig Wright Clarifies Bitcoin's Original Intent and Critiques Misuse
Dr. Craig S. Wright criticizes misconceptions about Bitcoin's White Paper and its purpose, asserting it's a micropayment system, not digital gold, and highlights transaction costs impacting its utility.
Nomura's Laser Digital Partners with WebN Group to Launch Libre Protocol on Polygon
Nomura's Laser Digital and WebN Group have unveiled the Libre protocol, a fund tokenization infrastructure powered by Polygon technology, set to launch in Q1 2024. The protocol aims to revolutionize the management and distribution of alternative investments, with Brevan Howard and Hamilton Lane as initial users.
Yellen Works with Regulators to Address Silicon Valley Bank Collapse
United States Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is working with regulators to address the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), one of the top 20 largest banks in the US. Yellen has stated that they are focused on protecting depositors, particularly small businesses that employ people across the country, and that they are considering a range of available options, including acquisitions from foreign banks.
Breaking: CoinsPaid, AtomicWallet, and Alphapo Incidents All Connected to North Korea's Lazarus Group
MistTrack links CoinsPaid, AtomicWallet, and Alphapo incidents to North Korea's Lazarus Group. The hacks, totaling over $183M, highlight the need for robust crypto security.
SEC Extends Review Period for ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF
The SEC has postponed its decision on the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF till January 10, 2024, marking another delay in the approval process. Amid broader calls for swifter approvals, the SEC's meticulous review approach underscores the regulatory cautiousness enveloping cryptocurrency-based financial offerings.
South Korean Crypto Exchanges Reveal 'Compensation Reserve Funds'; Upbit Leads with KRW 20 Billion
The disclosure of 'Compensation Reserve Funds' by South Korean crypto exchanges, led by Upbit with KRW 20 billion, reflects the country's broader regulatory strides aimed at ensuring user protection, transaction transparency, and market discipline. This move aligns with the new regulatory framework set to be implemented in 2024, spotlighting the government's agenda to foster a robust infrastructure for digital assets, with the reserve fund mandate forming a cornerstone of this initiative.
Australian Regulator Takes Legal Action Against eToro Over High-Risk and Volatile Trading Products
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has filed a case in the Federal Court against the online investing platform eToro Aus Capital Limited about the suitability of eToro's target market for contract for difference (CFD) products.
BlackRock and ARK Invest Conform to SEC's Cash Redemption Model for Bitcoin ETF
Major ETF issuers BlackRock and ARK Invest comply with SEC's cash redemption model for their spot Bitcoin ETFs, potentially paving the way for regulatory approval.
China announces new financial regulator in governmental overhaul
China is introducing a new national financial regulator as part of a governmental overhaul. The current banking and insurance watchdog, the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC), will be abolished, and its responsibilities will be moved to a brand new administration. The new financial regulator will "strengthen institutional supervision, supervision of behaviors and supervision of functions." There was no specific mention of reforms for the crypto industry.
Celsius to Transition to Mining-Only NewCo following Bankruptcy Court's Confirmation of Plan
Celsius Network, following bankruptcy court approval, is transitioning to a Bitcoin mining-focused entity to address regulatory challenges from the SEC.
Microstrategy's Bitcoin Investment Turns Green Again
Microstrategy's Bitcoin investment has turned profitable again as BTC surpassed the critical resistance of $29,000 and hit a new 10-month high of $30,163. The company had accumulated 140,000 BTC for nearly $4.17 billion at an average price of $29,803 per BTC. After a 70% drop in BTC price during the crypto winter in 2022, the price has seen over a 55% increase in the first quarter of 2023, outperforming most traditional stocks and bonds.
Head Chef Says DEX Aggregator Will 10x SushiSwap's Market Share
In a Jan 16 Medium article, Sushi CEO Jared Grey detailed the DeFi platform. A Q1 DEX aggregator and 2023 decentralized incubator are planned. After a Dec 6 governance proposal showed that Sushi's treasury had 1.5 years remaining, new offerings were proposed.
Ethereum Milestone: Validator Count Hits 1 Million with $114 Billion Staked
Ethereum's network validators surpass the 1 million mark, with 32 million ETH staked through platforms like Lido, accounting for 26% of its total supply.
Indian Minister Reveals Crypto Regulatory Measures to Tame Terrorism
G. Kishan Reddy, India’s Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs disclosed that the nation would incorporate the standards of the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to deter terrorism by cutting off funding sources, especially cryptocurrencies.
Senator Cynthia Lummis Defends Bitcoin Again, Says it “Cannot be Stopped”
In an interview with Hard Money host, Natalie Brunell, Senator Lummis boldly affirmed that Bitcoin “can’t be stopped”.
Quora's Poe Secures $75M for AI Chatbot Expansion
Quora has secured $75 million from Andreessen Horowitz to expand Poe, its AI chat platform, focusing on creator monetization and integrating leading AI models like ChatGPT and DALL-E 3.
Elon Musk's X to Launch In-App Payment Services by Mid-2024
Elon Musk's X plans to launch in-app payment services by mid-2024, indicating a shift from his previous crypto interests to fiat currency.
Congressional Memo Challenges SEC's SAB 121
Congress members question the enforceability of the Securities and Exchange Commission's Staff Accounting Bulletin 121, arguing it deviates from standard accounting practices, misrepresents custodians' responsibilities, and increases consumer risk.
US Crypto Crackdown Hurts USD Coin
Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire has blamed the declining market capitalization of USD Coin (USDC) on the cryptocurrency crackdown by US regulators. Allaire cited global concern about the US banking system and regulatory environment as major factors.
Zipmex Requests Moratorium Extension in Singapore
Cryptocurrency exchange Zipmex has requested an extension of its moratorium on debt in Singapore due to liquidity issues. The company plans to use the extra time to reopen withdrawals on its Z Wallet platform.
German Authorities Clamps Down on 'Shitcoins club' Bitcoin ATM Operations
Germany’s financial regulator (BaFin) has moved to stop the operations of Shitcoins Club, a popular Bitcoin ATM operator in the country.
Italian Luxury Fashion Brand Salvatore Ferragamo Opens NFT Booth in Soho
Salvatore Ferragamo, the Italian luxury fashion brand has entered the Non-Fungible Token (NFT) scene in grand style
Bears Dominate Market as Bitcoin Trading Below Key Daily Moving Averages
Market analysts believe bears are still in charge as Bitcoin is still trading below key daily moving averages like 50 MA, 200 EMA, and 200 MA.
HK legislator's company will attract 1,000 Web3 startups in three years.
Hong Kong legislative council member Jonny Ng Kit-Chong created a startup accelerator to lure 1,000 Web3 enterprises to the city-state. The engineer and politician owns over 40 enterprises. Hong Kong's government is pushing G-crypto Rocket's hub proposal.
Crypto Lender Vauld Granted 3-Month Protection from Singapore Court against Creditors
Crypto lender Vauld has been facing hostile action from several creditors. The Singapore High Court has granted the distressed firm a three-month reprieve against its creditors.
U.S. Tightens Microchip Export to Sustain AI Leadership Over China
Senator Mike Rounds highlighted the U.S.'s marginal lead in AI over China, measurable in months. The U.S. restricts AI chip exports to China to maintain this edge. Meanwhile, China's significant AI advancements, despite challenges like U.S. sanctions and technology gaps, underscore the intensifying global AI race.
China Has Kickstarted the Experimentation of a Blockchain Pilot in its Equity Trading Industry
The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) has kickstarted the experimentation of a blockchain pilot for the equity trading industry in the country. Announced by the Beijing Local Financial Supervision and Administration, CSRC will be assisting the Beijing Equity Trading Center for the blockchain pilot.
Yield Protocol and Utopia Labs Announce Wind-Down
Yield Protocol and Utopia Labs have recently disclosed the cessation of their current operations due to various factors. While Yield Protocol cites inadequate demand for fixed-rate borrowing and regulatory hurdles, Utopia Labs is pivoting away from its existing product, though it remains upbeat about the crypto sector.
Cross-Asset Exchange Platform DIFX Acquires Additional License from EU Regulator
With the new license from the EU regulator, DIFX is well-positioned to serve clients in European markets.
CreatorDAO Community Raises $20M in Seed Fund
CreatorDAO, a decentralized autonomous organization, announced that it raised $20 million in a seed round led by Andreessen Horowitz and Initialized Capital.
OneCoin's Former Legal Head Pleads Guilty to Fraud and Money Laundering
Irina Dilkinska, former OneCoin legal head, has admitted to wire fraud and money laundering charges in the cryptocurrency pyramid scheme, facing a potential ten-year prison term, while co-founder Ruja Ignatova remains fugitive.
Binance.US to Remove Certain Trading Pairs and Pause OTC Trading
Binance.US announced today that it will be making significant changes to its trading structure. The changes, set to take place on June 8, 2023 at 9 a.m. PDT / 12 p.m. EDT, will involve the removal of select Advanced Trading pairs and a pause on their Over-The-Counter (OTC) Trading Portal.
Sep 03 Trading Analysis: Miners still the biggest swinging d*cks around
No real headlines except Korea regulators coming after Bithumb (which isn't a "new" news imo). Instead, I actually think was driven by miners selling.
Stargate Foundation advised against reissuing STG token
Stargate Foundation has been advised against reissuing the STG token by its DAO due to concerns raised by FTX liquidators following the bankruptcy of FTX and Alameda Research's wallets being hacked for roughly $500 million.
Ethereum’s Crowd Sentiment Hits a Two-Month High as ETH 2.0 Surpasses 200,000 Validators
Ethereum recently jumped above the $2,400 level, triggering crowd sentiment on Twitter to hit a two-month high, as acknowledged by on-chain metrics provider Santiment.
U.S. Senators Urge Treasury and IRS for Swift Cryptocurrency Tax Rule Implementation
A group of U.S. Senators has expressed concern over a two-year delay in implementing tax reporting requirements for crypto brokers, urging the Treasury Department and IRS to expedite the process to close the crypto tax gap, provide clarity for taxpayers, and secure billions in lost tax revenue. The delay contradicts the directives of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and gives leeway to crypto lobbyists opposing the rule.
Everything You Need to Know about 1inch
1inch is a Decentralized Exchange (DEX) aggregator built on Ethereum. It is a type of liquidity protocol specialized in providing customers with the most favourable and most convenient transaction route by automatically aggregating offers from other decentralized exchanges.
Bitcoin SV Moons As Craig Wright Tells Court That he Has Access to Tulip Trust
Bitcoin Satoshi Version (BSV), a fork of the Bitcoin Cash, is surging in trades following Craig Wright’s compliance with a court order to open up the mysterious Tulip Trust for inspection.
Pepe Coin Shows Bullish Indicators After an 80% Decline
Pepe coin, after an 80% drop in value with scandals, is showing signs of resurgence. Technical indicators suggest a possible bullish momentum, with the Moving Average Convergence Divergence and Relative Strength Index indicating a potential bounce in price trends. However, Pepe's price trajectory remains a descending channel, indicating sustained bearish momentum. To shift this narrative, the coin must break above the descending channel and maintain its position above the upper boundary, providing a stronger confirmation of a trend reversal.
Bittrex to Wind Down US Operations
Cryptocurrency exchange Bittrex will wind down its US operations due to regulatory and economic challenges. US customers are advised to withdraw their funds by April 30, 2023.
Hawaii Pushes Out New Digital Currency Regulatory Sandbox to Boost Crypto Growth
The government of Hawaii has recently announced its establishment of a regulatory sandbox for digital currency companies. The partnership between the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Division of Financial Institutions (DFI) and Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) will see the launch of Hawaii’s first pilot program aimed for digital currencies.
SEC Delays Decision on Ether ETFs to May 2024, Impacting Key Proposals
The SEC has postponed its decision on several Ether ETFs, including Hashdex Nasdaq Ethereum ETF and Grayscale Ethereum Futures ETF, affecting the future of Ethereum-based financial products.
Enigma Settles With US SEC Over Unregistered 2017 ICO
The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently announced it has settled charges against blockchain startup Enigma MPC.
Solana Co-founder Labels Ethereum 'Bourgeois Digital Tyranny
Solana Labs Co-founder, Anatoly Yakovenko, defended the Solana network's accessibility during a Twitter debate from 1st to 2nd October 2023, responding to criticisms regarding the cost of running nodes. Yakovenko contrasted Solana with Ethereum, advocating for negligible costs in state creation to promote true decentralization, despite rebuttals highlighting Solana's high node operation costs favoring corporations.
dYdX Initiates Token Migration Following Layer-1 Blockchain Inception
Antonio Juliano, dYdX founder, has flagged an upcoming large-scale migration of locked $DYDX tokens to the dYdX Chain following its recent launch. This migration, strictly abiding by legal agreements, marks a significant phase in dYdX's transition to a layer-1 blockchain, amplifying the utility of DYDX tokens for staking and governance purposes.
US House Committees To Hold Joint Hearings On Digital Asset Regulations
The US House Financial Services and Agriculture Committees, along with the Digital Assets, Financial Technology and Inclusion Subcommittee, and the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee will hold joint hearings in May to establish regulatory clarity for the digital asset ecosystem. Representative Patrick McHenry, the House Financial Services Committee chairman, has announced that the hearings aim to establish a bill providing regulatory clarity to the crypto sector, which adds to the work on a bipartisan bill led by crypto-friendly Senator Cynthia Lummis and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.
dYdX to Exit Canadian Market
Cryptocurrency derivatives exchange dYdX is set to exit the Canadian market due to regulatory restrictions. The exchange will stop onboarding new Canadian users and move existing users to "close-only mode" over the next seven days, allowing them to only withdraw funds. dYdX is hoping for a change in the regulatory climate to resume services in the country.
Tornado Cash Token Plummets Following Binance Delisting Announcement
The Tornado Cash token's value significantly decreased following Binance's delisting announcement, amid regulatory and market compliance issues in the cryptocurrency sector.
Google's Authenticator Update Raises Security Concerns
Google has released an update to its Authenticator app that allows users to store a one-time code in cloud storage. While this may help users who lose their authenticator app, it also makes them more vulnerable to hackers, who can gain access to the user's Google password and subsequently obtain full access to their authenticator-linked apps. Cybersecurity experts have also warned of complications that come with Google's cloud storage-based solution to two-factor authentication (2FA), raising concerns about security.
Binance's MVB Accelerator Program Collaborates with CMC Labs to Launch Innovative Founder Track
Binance's MVB Accelerator Program and CMC Labs are collaborating to launch a new Founder Track, aiming to incubate 100 innovative projects on BNB Chain and support Web3 builders.
Coinbase Calls for Judicial Intervention on SEC's Inaction
Coinbase's Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, has filed a formal response with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, urging a mandamus order to compel the SEC to act on Coinbase’s rulemaking petition within 30 days, highlighting the SEC's prolonged inaction and the pressing need for regulatory clarity surrounding digital assets.
Hong Kong SFC Agrees in Principle to License Fidelity Backed OSL Crypto Firm
Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has agreed in principle to license the cryptocurrency firm OSL Digital Securities.
Circle Formally Refutes Allegations of Illicit Financing and Connections to Justin Sun
Circle denies CfA's allegations of illicit financing and Justin Sun ties, emphasizing regulatory compliance and advocating for stronger stablecoin laws, as clarified by Dante Disparte.
Cosmos Hub Introduces New Liquid Staking Module and Dashboard Features
Cosmos (ATOM) Hub has completed its v12 upgrade, introducing the Liquid Staking Module (LSM) to bypass the 21-day unbonding period for unstaking assets. This innovation aims to enhance the ATOM Economic Zone and integrate staked ATOM into the Cosmos decentralized finance ecosystem. Governance measures ensure security, and an enhanced dashboard, "Data Lenses v2," was launched for improved user experience.
Coinbase CEO Compares SEC to Soccer Refs in Criticism of Lack of Clarity Around Crypto Regulation
Coinbase CEO, Brian Armstrong, compared the SEC to “soccer refs” in a game of pickleball, criticizing the regulator for their lack of clarity around crypto regulation. The comments came after Coinbase revealed they had been issued a Wells notice, which typically precedes an enforcement action. The crypto community has widely condemned the recent notice, with many agreeing that the SEC has reversed its earlier position regarding Coinbase.
HKPF and SFC Form Joint Working Group to Tackle Illicit Activities in VATPs
The HKPF and SFC have formed a joint working group to enhance monitoring and investigation of illegal activities related to VATPs. The group aims to facilitate information sharing, assess risks, and collaborate on investigations. The move comes amid ongoing investigations into the unlicensed operations of the Dubai-based JPEX exchange.
Polkadot (DOT) Price Surges to a New All-Time High, Large-Cap Altcoins to Rally in 2021
While Bitcoin’s price has rallied to record highs, Polkadot (DOT) has also seen a rally of its own.
Altcoins Plunge as Bitcoin Sees Massive Retracement, Analyst says Altseason Could Outperform BTC
The world’s largest cryptocurrency has seen a steep plunge of 13.2% in the past 24 hours, but has managed to hold above the $33,000 level.
Ethereum is Inferior to Bitcoin as Money, What Makes ETH Valuable?
ETH is needed for staking and for securing transactions. However, Selkis believes that ETHE has been triggering a “mirage” of institutional demand of ETH.
Cardano Now the Biggest Proof-of-Stake Network as ADA Flips Polkadot (DOT) to Become 7th Top Crypto
The total amount staked on Cardano (ADA) has officially surpassed that on Polkadot (DOT), making Cardano the largest proof-of-stake network as of now.
Grayscale Plans to Offer More Digital Asset Products to Meet Rising Investor Demand
Grayscale Investments LLC has announced plans to explore other digital assets.
Christmas Market Could See Santa Rally Drive Ethereum, XRP Prices Higher and Bitcoin to $20K
The Bitcoin price gained 160% since the start of 2020, triggering triple-digit increases in cryptos like Ethereum (ETH) and Ripple’s XRP, but here comes the Santa Rally