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Litecoin vs Ethereum: The 8 Differences that You Should Know
Litecoin and Ethereum have proven to be among the most fundamental digital assets in the crypto space. According to the Coin Market Cap, Ethereum is ranked the second most popular cryptocurrency after Bitcoin, whereas Litecoin is ranked seventh. Despite their popularity, their intentions are entirely different. It, therefore, becomes crucial to comprehend their unique aspects.
FinFabrik and Chekk sign MOU to live and breathe KYC into digital assets investment
FinFabrik is pleased to announce that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Chekk to integrate Chekk’s KYC capabilities to its market infrastructure “CrossPool”, enabling financial institutions in private markets to grow new digital asset businesses powered by distributed technology.
MetaWeek to Take Place in Dubai on March 7-10, 2022, Shaping the Future Trends for Metaverses and Blockchain
Investors, NFT artists, blockchain brightest minds, DeFi experts and DAO representatives will converge to UAE for a week-long event with a full-scale trailblazing digital and physical networking experience. Community leaders will discuss what will define development of blockchain space and the upcoming realm of Metaverses.
MetaWeek in Dubai to bring together artists, NFT creators, investors, and blockchain Masterminds
A week-long event, set for March 7-10, 2022, will cover how paradigm-shifting technologies revolutionize and scale in industries like finance, art, cybersecurity, media and investment.
Hong Kong IFEC Warns Against Trading on Illegal and Foreign Platforms for Virtual Assets
The investor and Financial Education Council (IFEC), a public organisation under the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), has issued a warning regarding the potential risks connected to unlicensed and foreign virtual asset trading platforms.
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.
Grayscale Launches Bitcoin Mining-Centered Investment Entity
Crypto asset management firm Grayscale plans to launch a new private co-investment opportunity in mining hardware that enriches the bitcoin ecosystem.
US Congressman Proposes Safe Harbor for Digital Token Issuers in a New Bill
A new bill has just been sponsored by an American lawmaker from North Carolina, Patrick McHenry, seeking to grant a safe harbor for some token transactions
BlockFi Triumphs Over Bankruptcy, Initiates Creditor Reimbursements
BlockFi, a cryptocurrency company, emerged from bankruptcy in October 2023 and has since implemented a plan to repay creditors and return digital assets to clients. The company is now focusing on asset recoveries from entities like FTX and 3AC, processing claims for fair distributions, and Wallet customers can withdraw assets.
NFTs will Outrun Bitcoin due to the Proof of Ownership for Real-World Items, Kevin O’Leary says
Kevin O’Leary believes that NFTs have a bigger shot of surpassing Bitcoin because they can digitally show ownership of real-world things like flash cars or designer watches.
US Treasury to Increase DeFi Regulation
The US Treasury conducted a risk assessment of DeFi, finding it lacking in AML/CFT compliance, and reported money laundering, scammers, and North Korean hackers benefiting from the sector. The Treasury response to Biden's executive order suggests more regulation for DeFi, including compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act.
NFT Transactions Projected to Hit $40m by 2027 amid Metaverse Trend
NFT transactions are expected to reach $40 million by 2027 as the metaverse trend continues gaining steam, according to a report by Juniper Research.
Enabling Innovation in Asset Management: SFC's Approach
Christina Choi of the SFC spoke at the Bloomberg Buy-Side Forum Hong Kong 2023, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with regulation in the asset management industry. She highlighted the SFC's ongoing work on guidelines for tokenization of investment products.
Stablecoins Could Threaten Monetary Sovereignty and Financial Stability, Says ECB’s Christine Lagarde
Christine Lagarde, the president of the European Central Bank (ECB), has highlighted that stablecoins could pose a serious threat to monetary sovereignty and financial stability.
Hong Kong Monetary Authority Explores Virtual Asset Regulation in UAE and Highlights Converging Global Standards
According to a report by Ming Pao, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) recently visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to discuss the regulation of virtual assets (cryptos) with the local central bank.
Dubai Police to Release Second Bunch of NFTs
The Dubai Police plans to roll out the second collection of NFTs after the first bunch attracted approximately 23 million people globally.
Haru Invest Provides Update on Current Situation Amidst Investigation into B&S Holdings
Haru Invest, a prominent investment firm, has released an update regarding the ongoing investigation into B&S Holdings and its efforts to recover assets. The company has been fully cooperating with investigative authorities, although no specific details about the progress of the investigation have been disclosed yet.
Bitcoin Network Breaks Record With 22.3 Million Unique BTC Addresses in January
The Bitcoin network was busy in January with over 22.3 million active BTC addresses sending or receiving the cryptocurrency.
UAE to Strive for Virtual Service Provider Licenses before Q2
In a bid to become a global crypto hub, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is gearing up to issue federal licenses to virtual asset service providers (VASPs) by the end of Q1 2022.
ZachXBT's Defamation Lawsuit Receives Over $1 Million in Donations as Prominent Figures Rally Support
In a surprising turn of events, renowned on-chain analyst ZachXBT has exceeded his initial fundraising target, amassing a staggering $1,055,233 in donations, according to Nansen data. This remarkable achievement has been made possible through contributions from various entities and influential figures within the crypto industry.
Hong Kong's Crypto Rise: Harbinger for China?
Hong Kong's rising status as a crypto hub amidst regulatory amicability sparks speculations on China's evolving stance towards digital assets. The significant crypto activity in Hong Kong, combined with its thriving Over-The-Counter market, reflects a conducive environment for both institutional and retail crypto engagements. As Hong Kong continues to bolster its crypto market, it might be hinting at China's exploratory approach towards understanding and possibly embracing digital assets in the long term.
Haru Invest Addresses Rehabilitation Procedures and Asset Distribution Concerns
On Aug 6, Haru Invest clarified court rehabilitation procedures and asset distribution plans, following legal challenges and member concerns.
Crypto Data Platform Offers Digital Asset Data to Institutional Clients via BT Radianz Cloud
CryptoCompare, the digital asset data provider company for both institutional and retail clients, announced in a press release on its blog that it plans to offer a suite of digital asset data products via the BT Radianz Cloud, as a secure and reliable financial markets cloud communities which will enable institutional clients to have a fine, secure and dependable perspective of the growing digital asset class.
Digital Asset Gateway Fasset Launches Peer-to-peer Trading Platform in Pakistan
Digital asset-based fintech startup Fasset Technologies has launched a peer-to-peer trading platform in Pakistan to drive financial inclusion in Pakistan.
Binance Adds Bitcoin Ordinals to NFT Marketplace
Binance has announced that it will soon support Bitcoin ordinals, also known as Bitcoin NFTs, on its NFT marketplace. This will expand Binance’s multichain NFT ecosystem to include the Bitcoin network. Bitcoin ordinals have been on the rise, with over 3 million inscriptions as of May 1, but they remain a controversial topic in the crypto community.
Paul Tudor Jones' Bet on Bitcoin Supported by CME’s Bitcoin Futures CFTC Data and PwC’s Latest Crypto Report
In an annual report by Elwood Asset Management and consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the value of assets under management at cryptocurrency hedge funds has soared to $2 billion, doubling the value in 2019. Billionaire hedge fund manager Paul Tudor Jones was reportedly looking to buy Bitcoin to hedge against inflation as central banks across the world are printing money to relieve economies affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Wave Financial Acquires Swiss-based Criptonite Asset Management
A US-based regulated digital asset investment management firm makes its first acquisition in Europe. The acquisition paves the way for Wave Financial to make further expansion globally.
Number of Bitcoin Addresses with Non-Zero Balances Hits ATH
More people flock to Bitcoin as the number of address with non-zero balances hits a new all-time high.
Crypto Trends: Weekly Inflows and Outflows in Altcoins, North American Markets, and Investment Products
Altcoins saw $3M in weekly inflows; North America had $11B outflows. Digital asset products had minor withdrawals of $21M, with Bitcoin trading at $16B.
Meta's Digital Assets Expansion: A Scrutiny by Maxine Waters
Congresswoman Maxine Waters scrutinizes Meta's trademark applications, filed in March 2022, suggesting the company's continued involvement in the digital assets ecosystem, despite previous assurances of no ongoing projects in this area.
49% of Americans are Aware of NFTs: Pew Research Center
Nearly half of Americans have shown awareness of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), according to a survey by Washington-based think tank Pew Research Center.
What Pantera Capital CEO Thinks Will Be The Best Performing Cryptocurrency in the Next 12 Months
In an interview with Raoul Pal, Dan Morehead, the CEO of Pantera Capital, revealed what he thinks will be the best performing digital asset a year from now.
SocGen Introduces Digital Asset Service for Firms to Develop Crypto Funds
Societe Generale has launched a new digital asset service, which so far has been adopted by Arquant Capital SAS, a French asset management firm.
FINRA's 2024 Oversight Report Emphasizes Crypto Asset Compliance
FINRA's 2024 Regulatory Oversight Report emphasizes compliance in crypto asset activities, emphasizing cybersecurity, anti-money laundering protocols, and transparent reporting, reflecting its commitment to guiding members in the evolving cryptocurrency world.
Hut 8 Mining Corp. Responds to Short-Seller Accusations Amid Stock Tumble
Hut 8 Corp faces serious accusations from JCapital Research, claiming mismanagement and legal issues post-merger, leading to a significant stock price drop. The company is now working to address these allegations and reassure investors.
Binance Futures Drops XRP and TUSD Support in Multi-Assets Mode
Binance Futures discontinues support for XRP and TUSD as margin assets in the Multi-Assets Mode from 2024-05-28 06:00 (UTC).
Binance Introduces Spot Copy Trading Feature
Binance unveils Spot Copy Trading on its platform, allowing users to replicate trading strategies of expert traders.
OKX Adds USDC Spot Trading Pairs
OKX announces the introduction of new USDC trading pairs to support the growing USDC ecosystem.
iFinex Collaborates with El Salvador Government to Develop Digital Asset and Securities Framework
iFinex, the parent company of Bitfinex, partners with El Salvador to create a robust legal framework for digital assets and securities.
Bitfinex Securities Shaping Future of Investment with Tokenised Securities
Bitfinex Securities leverages tokenised securities, merging traditional investment instruments with digital assets to reshape investment paradigms.
Record $1bn Inflows in Digital Asset Investment
Digital asset inflows reach a record high of $14.9bn.
Digital Asset Inflows Hit $2bn in May, Ethereum (ETH) Sees Positive Sentiment Shift
Digital asset funds see $2bn inflows in May, Ethereum sentiment turns positive.
Exploring AssemblyAI’s Integrations: Enhancing Speech AI Workflows
Discover how AssemblyAI's integrations can optimize your speech AI projects.
CoinShares: Digital Asset Funds See $2 Billion Inflows Amid Anticipation of Rate Cuts
Digital asset funds witness $2 billion inflows in early June, driven by rate cut expectations.
Ripple (XRP) Completes Acquisition of Standard Custody, Appoints Jack McDonald to Lead Stablecoins
Ripple (XRP) finalizes Standard Custody acquisition, appoints Jack McDonald as SVP of Stablecoins, enhancing its financial infrastructure.
HKMA Reports Increase in Exchange Fund Foreign Assets in May 2024
HKMA reports HK$7.8 billion increase in Exchange Fund foreign assets, reaching HK$3,468 billion by end of May 2024.
SFC Outlines Regulatory Expectations for Virtual Asset Trading Platforms Post-Transition
SFC briefs virtual asset trading platforms on regulatory expectations after the transition period ends.
Automate PII Redaction from Audio Files Using Node.js and AssemblyAI
Learn how to automatically redact personal identifiable information (PII) from audio files using Node.js and the AssemblyAI API.
NVIDIA and Stanford Collaborate to Develop Lightweight XR Glasses Using AI
NVIDIA and Stanford create AI-driven lightweight XR glasses, revolutionizing optical design.
Creating WebVTT Files for Videos Using Node.js: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn how to create WebVTT subtitle files for videos using Node.js and the AssemblyAI API in this detailed guide.
CoinShares: Hawkish FOMC Meeting Triggers $600M Outflows in Digital Asset Funds
Digital asset investment products saw $600 million in outflows, primarily in Bitcoin, following a hawkish FOMC meeting, according to CoinShares.
Tether Launches Alloy: A Digital Asset Backed by Tether Gold (XAU₮)
Tether introduces Alloy, a new digital asset backed by Tether Gold (XAU₮), offering stability and security in the digital economy.
Bitfinex Introduces aUSDT: A Gold-Backed Digital Asset
Bitfinex unveils aUSDT, a digital asset combining the stability of gold with Web3 functionalities, backed by Tether Gold (XAUt).
Matrixport Secures Spot on Hurun Global Unicorn List 2024
Matrixport, a leading digital assets financial services platform, has been listed on the Hurun Global Unicorn List 2024, highlighting its significant market influence.
AssemblyAI Launches Starter App for Encore to Simplify Speech AI Development
AssemblyAI introduces a new starter app for Encore, enabling developers to quickly build and deploy Speech AI applications in Go.
Immutable (IMX) Pioneers the Future of Web3 Game Economies
Immutable (IMX) is spearheading the evolution of game economies with Web3 technology, unlocking new revenue streams and true digital asset ownership for players.
Digital Asset Fund Flows Report Reveals Significant Outflows Amid Market Correction
CoinShares reports $584m outflows in digital asset investment products, with Bitcoin leading the decline. Multi-asset products saw inflows.
Implementing Hotword Detection with AssemblyAI's Streaming Speech-to-Text in Go
Learn how to implement hotword detection using AssemblyAI's Streaming Speech-to-Text API with Go. This guide covers setup, coding, and execution.
Elwood Technologies Partners with Wintermute to Enhance Digital Asset Liquidity
Elwood Technologies integrates Wintermute to boost digital asset trading experience and deepen liquidity for institutional clients.
AssemblyAI Enhances Conversational Intelligence with New Features
AssemblyAI introduces new features to enhance conversational intelligence, helping enterprises gain deeper insights from audio data.
CoinShares: Ethereum Faces Continued Outflows While Bitcoin Sentiment Shows Signs of Reversal
Digital asset investment products saw a third consecutive week of outflows, with Ethereum experiencing significant outflows and Bitcoin showing potential sentiment reversal.
Tether and BTguru Sign MoU to Boost Digital Asset Education in Türkiye
Tether Operations Limited and BTguru have signed an MoU to enhance digital asset education initiatives in Türkiye, fostering blockchain and peer-to-peer technology awareness.
Hong Kong's SFC Alerts Public on Seven Entities Suspected of Virtual Asset Fraud
The SFC has issued a public warning about seven entities involved in suspected virtual asset-related fraud, urging caution.
Digital Asset Fund Flows Surge with $441M Inflows Amid Market Weakness
Digital asset investment products saw significant inflows totaling $441 million, driven by opportunistic buying amid recent price weakness, according to CoinShares.
AssemblyAI and DeepL Enable Multi-Lingual Subtitles for Videos
Learn how to use AssemblyAI and DeepL to create multi-lingual subtitles for videos, enhancing accessibility and user experience.
Emerging Digital Asset Trends in Africa: A Closer Look
Explore the key digital asset trends in Africa, including the rise of cryptocurrency adoption, regulatory advancements, and the role of technology providers.
Fireblocks Partners with CloudTech, Zodia Custody, Zerocap, Rakkar, and Komainu for Global Custodian Program
Fireblocks announces its first Global Custodian Partners: CloudTech, Zodia Custody, Zerocap, Rakkar, and Komainu, enhancing secure digital asset custodianship.
Decentralization Pioneers New Horizons in Cloud Computing
Franklin Templeton Digital Asset team explores decentralization's impact on cloud services with Escape Velocity and Harvard Business School.
Philip Gradwell Joins Tether as Head of Economics
Tether appoints Philip Gradwell, former Chief Economist at Chainalysis, as Head of Economics to enhance communication with regulators and stakeholders.
Exploring the Future of Asset Tokenization: Opportunities and Challenges
Asset tokenization is set to revolutionize the financial sector with an estimated value of $16 trillion by 2030. Discover the key insights and challenges.
Claude 3.5 Sonnet Empowers Audio Data Analysis with Python
Learn to use Claude 3 models with audio data in Python, leveraging AssemblyAI's LeMUR framework for seamless integration.
Manta Pacific Pioneers Real-World Asset Integration in Web3
Manta Pacific is leading the charge in integrating real-world assets into Web3, enhancing the Manta Network ecosystem with innovative RWA initiatives.
Creating an AI-Powered Video Conferencing App with Next.js and Stream
Learn to build a Next.js video conferencing app with live transcriptions and an LLM-powered meeting assistant using Stream and AssemblyAI.
AssemblyAI Enhances Speech AI Capabilities with LLM Integrations
AssemblyAI introduces new features and integrations with LangChain, LlamaIndex, and Twilio to enhance speech AI applications using Large Language Models (LLMs).
CME & Glassnode Release Comprehensive Report on Digital Asset Trends for H1 2024
CME Group and Glassnode unveil a detailed report on digital asset market trends for H1 2024, providing key insights for institutional investors.
Building a Flexible Blockchain Payments Solution: Key Considerations
Learn how to build and launch an efficient blockchain payments solution, covering wallet infrastructure, ecosystem partners, and operational workflows.
Hong Kong's Resilience as a Top Asset and Wealth Management Hub: SFC Survey 2023
The SFC survey highlights Hong Kong's enduring position as a leading international asset and wealth management hub in 2023.
Building Real-Time Language Translation with AssemblyAI and DeepL in JavaScript
Learn how to create a real-time language translation service using AssemblyAI and DeepL in JavaScript. Step-by-step guide for developers.
Record-Breaking Inflows Highlight Digital Asset Fund Trends
Digital asset investment products witnessed the 5th largest weekly inflows on record, reaching $1.44 billion, according to CoinShares.
HTX Collaborates with Fireblocks to Enhance Security with Off Exchange Integration
HTX integrates Fireblocks Off Exchange to mitigate counterparty risk and enhance digital asset security and user experience.
Ripple (XRP) Advances Financial Infrastructure with Blockchain and Digital Assets
Ripple (XRP) aims to revolutionize financial services using blockchain and digital assets, focusing on institutional DeFi, cross-border payments, and stablecoins.
Digital Asset Fund Inflows Reach $1.35 Billion Amid Positive Market Sentiment
Digital asset investment products saw inflows of $1.35 billion last week, with Bitcoin leading the charge, according to CoinShares.
Meta Llama Boosts Conversational Abilities of AI Study Buddy on WhatsApp and Messenger
Meta AI's new enhancement allows students to receive conversational help with schoolwork via WhatsApp and Messenger.
VanEck Announces Upcoming Webinar Series on Diverse Investment Topics
VanEck is hosting webinars covering gold, esports, digital assets, emerging markets, and other investment trends. Learn more about their educational sessions.
AssemblyAI's Python SDK Surpasses 100K Monthly Downloads with New Tutorials
AssemblyAI's Python SDK hits 100,000 monthly downloads, supported by fresh tutorials and community engagement.
Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) Lead Digital Asset Outflows Amid Broad Market Sell-Off
Digital asset investment products experienced significant outflows totaling $528M, led by Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), amid recession fears and geopolitical concerns, according to CoinShares.
AssemblyAI Enhances Zapier Integration with New Features
AssemblyAI launches an enhanced version of its Zapier app, introducing new transcription options, events, and improved integration.
AssemblyAI Launches Ruby SDK for Enhanced Audio Processing
AssemblyAI has introduced a Ruby SDK, enabling users to transcribe audio, use audio intelligence models, and apply LLMs to audio data.
Ethereum (ETH) Leads as Digital Asset Inflows Rebound Amid Market Correction
Ethereum sees significant inflows amid market correction, leading the digital asset fund recovery with $155m in new investments.
Solana (SOL) Faces Record Outflows Amid Modest Digital Asset Inflows
Digital asset investment products saw $30m in inflows last week, while Solana (SOL) experienced record outflows, according to CoinShares.
VanEck's Insights on Digital Assets: Market Observations and Analysis
VanEck's Head of Digital Assets Research, Matthew Sigel, shares market insights and analysis on cryptocurrencies and digital asset technologies.
Streamline Video Subtitles with AssemblyAI and Zapier Integration
Learn how to generate subtitles for videos using AssemblyAI and Zapier. Follow a step-by-step guide to transcribe videos and upload subtitles to Google Drive.
AssemblyAI Enhances Speaker Diarization Model and Releases New Tutorials
AssemblyAI updates its Speaker Diarization model for better accuracy and multilingual support, alongside new tutorials for developers.
SFC Issues Warning on ICE Global Professional Station for Fraud and Impersonation
The SFC has issued a warning about ICE Global Professional Station, citing impersonation and suspected virtual asset-related fraud.
AssemblyAI Unveils Streaming Speech-to-Text and Latest Tutorials
AssemblyAI introduces its Streaming Speech-to-Text feature with new tutorials and use cases in their latest update.
Bitcoin (BTC) Inflows Surge to $543M as Powell Hints at Rate Cuts
Digital asset investment products saw $533M in inflows, driven by Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) activity, following Powell's rate cut hints.
AssemblyAI Enhances Automatic Language Detection with Broader Support and Higher Accuracy
AssemblyAI announces improvements in its automatic language detection model, offering increased accuracy and expanded support for 17 languages.
Binance Launches Convert & Earn Campaign with USDC Rewards
Binance announces a new campaign allowing users to earn USDC rewards by converting digital assets through Binance Pay.
Exploring the Future of Real World Assets in DeFi
Tokenizing real world assets is transforming traditional finance by integrating physical assets into DeFi ecosystems, enhancing accessibility and efficiency.
AssemblyAI Enhances Automatic Language Detection with Expanded Support
AssemblyAI updates its Automatic Language Detection model, boosting accuracy and adding support for 17 languages, including Chinese and Hindi.
AssemblyAI Unveils C# .NET SDK for Advanced Audio Transcription and Analysis
AssemblyAI releases a C# .NET SDK, enabling developers to transcribe and analyze audio, and apply LLMs using LeMUR.
SEC Targets OpenSea: Are NFTs Collectibles or Securities?
The SEC issues a Wells Notice to OpenSea, questioning the classification of certain NFTs as securities, potentially impacting the entire NFT market.
AssemblyAI Launches C# .NET SDK and New AI Tutorials
AssemblyAI introduces its C# .NET SDK and releases new tutorials on AI applications, including a Discord voice bot, AI video conferencing app, and scam call detection.
US Digital Asset Outflows Reach $721M Amid Rate Cut Uncertainty, Europe Shows Resilience
Digital asset investment products faced significant outflows, primarily from the US, amid interest rate cut uncertainty, while Europe showed resilience.
Digital Asset Fund Flows Rebound with $436M Inflows, Bitcoin (BTC) Leads
Digital asset investment products see $436M inflows after $1.2B outflows, driven by market expectations for interest rate cuts.
AssemblyAI Integrates with Activepieces to Enhance No-Code Automation
AssemblyAI collaborates with Activepieces to offer advanced speech recognition and audio intelligence capabilities for no-code and low-code automation.
Circle Unveils Compliance Engine for Enhanced Digital Asset Regulation
Circle launches Compliance Engine, a tool designed to meet evolving digital asset regulations, integrated within the Circle Console.
Harnessing Universal-1 for Ruby: Advanced Speech Recognition with AssemblyAI
Discover how to integrate AssemblyAI's Universal-1 speech recognition model into Ruby applications for superior accuracy and efficiency.
AssemblyAI Launches Postman Collection for Enhanced API Testing
AssemblyAI releases a Postman collection, enabling users to easily test and debug their API in a collaborative environment.
Integrating Speech-to-Text Functionality in Django Applications
Learn how to integrate Speech-to-Text into Django apps using AssemblyAI API. Build an app to transcribe audio files and display the transcriptions.
Digital Asset Fund Flows Surge Amid FED Rate Cut
Digital asset inflows hit $321 million following a 50bp rate cut by the Federal Reserve, according to CoinShares.
Exploring the Digital Asset Investable Universe: Key Insights and Opportunities
Discover the key sectors, entry points, and high-impact opportunities in the digital asset ecosystem, according to Galaxy's latest report.
Fireblocks Integrates IOTA EVM for Enhanced Institutional Access
Fireblocks has integrated IOTA EVM, allowing secure storage, transfer, and management of IOTA tokens for institutional users, enhancing the digital asset ecosystem.
AssemblyAI Partners with Langflow to Enhance Generative AI Capabilities
AssemblyAI has integrated with Langflow, a low-code platform, to enable seamless incorporation of speech-to-text and understanding features in AI applications.
Andreessen Horowitz Updates Investment Portfolio Announcements
Andreessen Horowitz shares its latest investment portfolio updates, cautioning that past results are not indicative of future performance. The list includes current and former portfolio companies.
Digital Asset Inflows Reach $2.2 Billion Amid US Election Optimism
Digital asset inflows surge to $2.2 billion, driven by optimism over a potential Republican US election win, with Bitcoin leading the charge.
AI Innovation: Siemens and thyssenkrupp Tackle Manufacturing Skills Gap
Siemens and thyssenkrupp are utilizing AI-driven tools to address the skills gap in manufacturing, leveraging Microsoft Azure's OpenAI Service.
US Elections Propel $2.2B Inflows into Digital Assets, Bitcoin (BTC) Leads
The recent US elections have sparked $2.2 billion in inflows into digital assets, with Bitcoin and Ethereum witnessing significant activity, according to CoinShares.
MARA Holdings Releases Q3 2024 Financial Results
MARA Holdings has announced its Q3 2024 financial results, revealing significant insights into its operations and future plans. The company will discuss the results in a webcast and conference call.
Tether Unveils Hadron Platform to Simplify Asset Tokenization
Tether launches Hadron, a platform aimed at simplifying asset tokenization for a broad audience, including institutions and governments, enhancing security and compliance.
Exploring the Benefits of Tokenised Funds in Modern Asset Management
Tokenised funds offer enhanced liquidity, efficiency, and accessibility in asset management through blockchain technology, enabling 24/7 trading and fractional ownership.
Bitcoin ETF Inflows Hit Record $3.12 Billion, Outpacing Ethereum
Bitcoin ETFs witnessed unprecedented inflows of $3.12 billion last week, setting a new record in digital asset investments, according to CoinShares.
MicroStrategy's Role as a Bitcoin (BTC) Proxy: A Strategic Analysis
Discover how MicroStrategy has become a leading corporate Bitcoin holder, leveraging financial strategies to align with digital asset growth and institutional adoption.
Python Audio Transcription Enhanced with AssemblyAI's Universal-1
Discover how to transcribe audio files using Python with AssemblyAI's Universal-1, a model offering near-human accuracy and multiple pricing tiers for diverse needs.
Optimizing Zoom Transcriptions with Multichannel Audio Recording
Enhance Zoom meeting transcriptions by leveraging multichannel audio recordings with AssemblyAI's advanced technology. Learn how to integrate Zoom API for accurate speech-to-text results.
Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB): 0.20% Management Fee, Pledges 10% Profits for Bitcoin Development
Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB) is a low-cost, regulated ETF for U.S. investors, offering a traditional route to investing in bitcoin. With a 0% management fee for the first six months, BITB could pave the way for more cryptocurrency-based investment products.
Goldman Sachs Continues Expanding Digital Assets Team, Now Looking For New VP
Goldman Sachs is looking for a new Vice President for its Digital Assets team to helps define and execute the investment firm’s global blockchain strategy.
NFTs will be Everywhere in the Future because of Proof of Ownership, Expert says
Caroline Alexander, a finance expert at the University of Sussex, believes that non-fungible tokens (NFTs) will be everywhere in the future because anything that requires proof of ownership will be an NFT.
National Bank of Georgia Enhances Sanction Monitoring, Includes Virtual Asset Service Providers
The Acting President of the National Bank of Georgia, Archil Mestvirishvili, stated that the bank has not only been monitoring the observance of financial sanctions but also expanded its oversight to virtual asset service providers.
Coinbase Custody Leads in Digital Asset Safety Amid ETF Adoption Surge
As crypto ETFs gain SEC approval, Coinbase Custody emerges as the trusted custodian for digital assets, leveraging advanced security and regulatory compliance.
American Football Star Russell Okung Shows Massive Support for Visa-Backed Bitcoin Rewards Card
Russel Okung, a National Football League (NFL) star, has shown his support for Fold’s Bitcoin cash-back rewards card as it will take Bitcoin adoption to unprecedented heights. Speaking to Forbes, Okung revealed that he has invested in the Fold Visa card project as it is a game-changer by presenting people with a unique way of being part of the Bitcoin economy.
Over 50% Investors Look for more Alternative Investments for Next 12 Months, Survey Shows
Subject to escalating inflation, over 50% of investors are looking for more investment in alternative assets, Asset Tribe's survey suggests.ation
PayPal Acquires UK Crypto License
PayPal has secured a cryptocurrency license from the UK's Financial Conduct Authority, marking a strategic move amid post-Brexit adjustments, and transitioning UK clients from PayPal Europe to a new UK-based entity.
Crypto Mom Hester Peirce Officially Sworn in as SEC Commissioner
Crypto Mom and blockchain forward SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce has been sworn in for a second term at the US SEC.
Upbit Singapore Secures MAS's MPI Licence
Upbit Singapore receives a Major Payment Institution license from MAS, marking a key step in its expansion and compliance with Singapore's regulatory standards in the digital asset sector.
Crypto Market Crash Leaves Investors Counting Losses
Price crashes are a normal part of cryptocurrency investing. It is important to be ready and understand how to minimize losses during a declining market.
SEC Freezes Assets of DEBT Box in $50 Million Crypto Fraud Case
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has obtained a temporary asset freeze, restraining order, and other emergency relief against Digital Licensing Inc., a Utah-based entity operating as "DEBT Box," along with its four principals and 13 other defendants.
DFA Bill Passed, But Central Bank of Russia Still Thinks Cryptos Are Criminal
Despite the Digital Financial Assets bill being passed by the State Duma, Russia’s Central Bank has nevertheless argued that crypto transactions are not deemed as legitimate investments.
Peter Schiff Mocks BTC Reliance on Platforms like PayPal, Says "Gold is Money, Bitcoin is not"
Bitcoin critic Peter Schiff is calling out Bitcoin again for requiring a third-party like PayPal to operate as a payment system, he said that "Gold is money and Bitcoin is not".
IOSCO to Consult on Crypto Regulation
The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) plans to launch a consultation for its crypto asset regulation report in Q2 2023. The final recommendations are expected to be published by the end of 2023, with separate workflows dedicated to crypto assets and decentralized finance.
Coinbase Appoints Marc Andreessen in Management Reshuffle Ahead of Potential IPO
Coinbase has made a board reshuffle that sees the additions of Silicon Valley mogul Gokul Rajaram and ventures capitalist Marc Andreessen. The reshuffle comes amid rumor of a potential Coinbase IPO.
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.
CFTC Charges Four Individuals Behind Alleged Bitcoin Fraud Scheme "Global Trading Club"
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has charged four people for allegedly soliciting funds from clients to speculate in Bitcoin price movements.
a16Z to Establish Crypto Research Lab
Wallet Street Venture Capital firm, Andreessen Horowitz (a16Z) established its own crypto research lab to conduct blockchain-related academic research.
Microstrategy CEO Reveals BTC Purchase is Corporate Strategy to Adopt Bitcoin Standard
CEO Michael Saylor revealed that MicroStrategy’s $425 million Bitcoin investment was part of its corporate 100-year outlook and strategy to adopt the Bitcoin Standard.
Mongolia’s Oldest Bank Will Soon Offer Comprehensive Crypto Services
Mongolia’s Trade & Development Bank (TDB Bank), one of the oldest and largest banks in the nation, has announced plans to enter the crypto space.
Constellation Network’s $DAG and $LTX Tokens Launch at LCX Exchange
LCX will provide a legal framework package for additional L_0 tokens and businesses.
Bitcoin is the Best Institutional Asset in Q1 2021 - Messari
Bitcoin has reportedly outperformed the major institutional assets including oil and gold in Q1, 2021.
CoinSmart Is on the Hunt to Buy Distressed Crypto Assets
The recent market crash is the latest in global financial events that have created unique opportunities for buyers like CoinSmart and FTX wanting to acquire distressed crypto firms at a bargain valuation.
Hong Kong Aims to Lead in Green Finance and Web 3.0, Says Financial Secretary
Hong Kong is setting its sights on becoming a global leader in two new fields: green finance and Web 3.0, according to a recent speech by the city's Financial Secretary Paul Chan.
The Cayman Islands Creates Regulatory Framework to Attract Virtual Asset Business
The Ministry of Financial Services of the Cayman Islands announced that it is building regulatory frameworks for individuals and entities that offer digital assets in business.
Facebook Launches Fintech Product Group F2 to Run Payments Across All its Apps
Facebook has expanded its fintech horizons and announced the launch of a new product group dedicated to payments purposes.
Haru Invest Faces Rehabilitation Hearing; Hugo Lee Clears Air on Asset Distribution
Haru Invest CEO Hugo Lee has raised concerns over the company's corporate rehabilitation application, stating it doesn't represent all members' interests and doesn't benefit Haru Invest or the targeted entity. He plans to prioritize asset recovery from other management companies for member distribution.
South Korea Passes Comprehensive Law Officially Legalizing Cryptocurrency Trading And Holding
A day after India’s Supreme Court lifted the ban on cryptocurrencies, South Korea has followed in their footsteps as the nation’s National Assembly has amended the Act on Reporting and Use of Specific Financial Information. This move fully legalizes cryptocurrencies in South Korea.
Hex Trust Announces Integration of Polkadot Blockchain Network
Hong Kong-based digital asset custody provider Hex Trust announced the integration of Polkadot blockchain network into Hex Safe.
Hong Kong Embraces Virtual Asset Spot ETFs
Hong Kong is set to become the first market in Asia to allow Virtual Asset Spot ETFs, with around ten fund companies preparing for launch. This move signifies a major shift in the region's approach to virtual assets.
Singapore Regulator MAS is Exploring Use of Cases in Digital Assets
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has launched Project Guardian, a sandbox initiative that is set to explore a number of defined use cases with respect to asset tokenization on the blockchain.
ZetaChain and Curve Finance Collaborate to Revolutionize DeFi with Native BTC Support
ZetaChain and Curve Finance have partnered to introduce native Bitcoin support for cross-chain swaps and omnichain asset pools, enhancing asset management efficiency across blockchains.
Hong Kong Blockchain Ecosystem Feb 2020 - New Members
Hong Kong Blockchain Ecosystem Feb 2020 - New Members
LINE Messaging App Launches Digital Asset Wallet and Blockchain Platform to Run Dapps and Tokens
LINE communications app recently launched a new blockchain digital wallet that can be used to manage various crypto assets.
UK Aims to Implement Crypto Regulation Soon
The UK plans to establish digital asset regulation within a year to take advantage of blockchain's benefits for the private sector and the economy, according to Andrew Griffith, the economic secretary to the UK Treasury.
Chainalysis Launches Program to Help Law Enforcement with Monitoring and Storing Seized Crypto Assets
Chainalysis has launched an asset realization program intended to assist government agencies with monitoring and storing seized crypto assets.
List of Blockchain Projects, People and ICOs the SEC Charged
A list of some of the blockchain projects and crypto figures who have been charged by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission over the years.
Bitcoin Wallet Addresses At All Time High As Bitcoin Network Experiences Third Halving
New data from Glassnode reveals that the number of Bitcoin addresses containing less than 1 BTC has more than doubled since the second halving in July 2016, with wallets containing less than 0.1 BTC showing the highest increase.
Bitcoin Miner Integrated Ventures Sees Decline in Annual Revenue Despite Higher BTC Production
Integrated Ventures Inc. reported a yearly mining revenue of $3,862,849, despite an increase in Bitcoin production to 162.71 BTC in 2023 from 108.29 BTC in 2022. The dip in revenue is attributed to the declining cryptocurrency market with the average dollar value of mined Bitcoin dropping significantly.
Russian Civil Servants Required to Declare Crypto Holdings Beginning in 2021
Russia’s public officials will be obligated to declare all their private cryptocurrency and digital asset holdings, effective from the start of 2021.
US Bitcoin Corp-Hut 8 Merger Progresses Amid Celsius Plan Approval
US Bitcoin Corp has secured court approval for its merger with Hut 8 Mining Corp, marking a significant step towards managing its assets and listing on Nasdaq and the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Japan's FSA Joins MAS' "Project Guardian" as First Overseas Regulator
The Financial Services Authority (FSA) of Japan has announced its participation in the Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) "Project Guardian" initiative. This collaborative project, which was established by MAS in May 2022, aims to explore the feasibility of applying digital technologies to various asset classes while ensuring financial stability and integrity.
IMF Emphasizes Digitalization in Financial Inclusion Agenda
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasizes the role of digitalization in expanding financial inclusion. She calls for a balanced approach that includes regulation to ensure financial stability. The IMF has also been active in digital finance, recently presenting a crypto-risk assessment tool.
SEC Report Reveals MicroStrategy “May Increase” its Bitcoin Holdings Beyond Initial Purchase of $250 Million
Microstrategy has revealed in its United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) report that it “may increase” its Bitcoin (BTC) holdings.
HashKey Launches Wealth Management Platform for Institutional Investors
HashKey Group has launched a wealth management platform for professional and institutional investors in response to growing demand for virtual assets. The Hong Kong-based digital asset firm is expanding its over-the-counter trading service and increasing its liquidity coverage to 24/7.
HashKey Group Secures Licenses from Regulator to Operate Virtual Asset Trading Platform
Hong Kong-based digital assets company HashKey Group announced it has secured regulatory approval from the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SEC) to operate a virtual asset trading platform.
Ethereum 2.0 Continues to Gain Steam, Staked ETH Tops 10 Million
The transition to Ethereum 2.0, which was renamed the consensus layer, continues to gain momentum because the amount of staked Ether is nearly 10% of the entire ETH supply.
Goldman Sachs Predicts Booming Blockchain Asset Trading in Coming Years
Goldman Sachs predicts a substantial increase in blockchain-based asset trading in the next 1-2 years, indicating a transformative shift in financial markets and growing interest in digital assets.
Germany's Largest Bitcoin Seizure: 50,000 BTC Confiscated in Piracy Probe
German authorities seized 50,000 Bitcoins linked to a piracy website, with suspects transferring the digital currency to police wallets, causing uncertainty in cryptocurrency enforcement.
Nomura-Backed Digital Asset Firm Komainu Hires Nicolas Bertrand As CEO
Bertrand’s experience driving strategic transformations at the Italian stock exchange demonstrates his capability to accelerate Komainu growth and capture the opportunities ahead.
How Blockchain Will Break Down Barriers to Asset Management?
To tackle issues like global inequality, blockchain is believed one of the ways to break down barriers to asset management among traditional finance sector.
Hong Kong to Submit Virtual Asset OTC Trading Licensing Scheme Bill
Hong Kong's Financial Secretary, Christopher Hui, plans to introduce a licensing scheme for virtual asset OTC trading platforms to combat crime and promote transparency in digital transactions.
Global NFT Market Expected to Hit $97.6B by 2028, Recording a CAGR of 31.6%
Since non-fungible tokens (NFTs) help build authentic intellectual property, this is one of the key drivers expected to push the sector to a $97.6 billion valuation by 2028, according to a report by Research and Markets.
Block's AUD$3M Investment Boosts Indigenous Business Sector in Australia
Block Inc. invests AUD$3 million in First Australians Capital's new fund, supporting Indigenous businesses in Australia, aiming to empower entrepreneurs, foster economic growth, and create community wealth.
Tanzania wary about CBDC adoption following studies
Tanzania's central bank is proposing a central bank digital currency (CBDC). An East African interdisciplinary technical team examined CBDC hazards and advantages. Four governments have halted CBDC adoption plans, while six have abandoned digital currencies.
Fintech Firm Cross River Raises $620M Funding, Led by Eldridge & a16z
CRB Group, Inc., the parent company of fintech company Cross River Bank, announced a $620 million investment led by Eldridge and Andreessen Horowitz.
Former UK Minister, Philip Hammond Joins Crypto Firm Copper as Senior Adviser
Former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Lord Philip Hammond has joined the London-based digital asset custodial service provider, Copper, as its Senior Advisor.
Hong Kong Brokers Seek SFC Clearance Before Virtual Asset Trading Law
Regional brokers and investment managers have sought licensing guidance ahead of new regulations. Retail investors may trade digital assets with high market capitalization and liquidity. Digital asset trading is confined to experienced investors and traders with at least $1 million in bankable assets.
IRS Delays Crypto Reporting Requirements for US Businesses
The IRS delays enforcing crypto transaction reporting requirements for US businesses, pending a comprehensive regulatory framework. This follows the crypto community's concerns over the practical challenges of complying with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's rules.
Billionaire Shark Tank Investor Mark Cuban Changes Tune on Bitcoin as Store of Value
Mark Cuban, a billionaire entrepreneur who is famed for his investor role on Shark Tank - where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their business models -has watered down his Bitcoin criticism as he views it as a store of value.
Cambridge University Partners with 16 Financial Institutions to Develop Crypto Asset Ecosystem
The University of Cambridge has rolled out a multi-year research initiative with 16 key financial institutions like WorldBank, IMF, and MasterCard to shed more light on the rapidly evolving crypto-asset ecosystem.
Over 220 Web3 Companies Settle in Hong Kong, Boosting Virtual Asset Development
Hong Kong has welcomed over 220 Web3 companies from 20 countries and regions, focusing on sectors like virtual asset exchanges, blockchain infrastructure, network security, and payment services, aiming to balance development with regulatory frameworks.
Andorra to Ratify Digital Assets Adoption with Crypto Law
Andorra, or 'the Principality of Andorra', is contemplating regulations of digital assets and other blockchain technologies. Its parliament is debating on relative amendments before turning them into a draft.
SkyBridge Capital Achieves Record Year with Crypto Investments, Scaramucci Foresees Bright Future for Bitcoin
Anthony Scaramucci's SkyBridge Capital records its best year in 2023 with a 130% rise in crypto investments, primarily in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Scaramucci predicts Bitcoin will surpass its all-time high, bolstered by the recent approval of Bitcoin ETFs by the SEC.
VP Bank Partners with Metaco for Digital Asset Custody Services
VP Bank has teamed up with Metaco to enhance its digital asset custody and tokenization operations. The partnership will allow VP Bank to leverage Metaco's Harmonize platform for asset minting, burning, and storage.
Helium Network Raises $111M through Token HNT Sale, Hitting a Three-month High
The Helium network, supported by Andreessen Horowitz, raised $111 million through the sale of its native token (HNT). HNT rose by 25.78% within 24 hours, and the price hit a three-month high.
Cypher Capital Rolls Out Worth $100m Blockchain and Digital Assets Fund
To expand the blockchain ecosystem, UAE-based venture capital firm Cypher Capital has launched a $100 million seed fund with a special interest in digital asset investments.
Why the World Needs a Blockchain Consensus Operating System
The true potential of blockchain to transform the lives of people around the world has clearly not been realised.
Indian Couple Tie their Knot in the Metaverse, Offering 3D Experience for 500 Guests
Have you ever thought about getting married virtually? An Indian couple decided to arrange their first wedding of its kind in the metaverse.
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.
Binance Joins Elon Musk in His Twitter Bid with $500m Equity Funding
Binance cryptocurrency exchange has joined Elon Musk’s takeover bid with a $500 million equity contribution to Twitter.
U.S. Seizes $1.4M in Tether Linked to Tech Support Scam Targeting Elderly
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago has seized approximately $1.4 million in Tether (USDT) linked to an alleged tech support scam that primarily targeted elderly victims across the United States.
Citi Unveils Digital Asset Solutions with Blockchain Integration
Citi Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS) has launched Citi Token Services, a digital asset service that integrates blockchain and smart contract technologies to improve cash management and trade finance for institutional clients. The service offers cross-border payments, liquidity, and automated trade finance solutions, aiming to improve the regulated financial system and streamline global liquidity management.
The White House is continuing to develop its National Digital Assets Research and Development
The White House wants advice on its National Digital Assets Research and Development Agenda. The agenda "shapes a whole-of-government effort" to build digital assets and distributed ledger technologies. The president's digital asset executive order prompted its September announcement.
Tether Intervenes on Terrorism Funding, Freezing 32 Cryptocurrency Addresses
Tether has frozen 32 cryptocurrency addresses tied to terrorism funding in Israel and Ukraine, manifesting the growing partnership between crypto firms and global law enforcement to combat digital-financed crime.
Goldman Sachs Tells Investors Bitcoin Not Worthy of Investment
The recent announcement that Goldman Sachs would be holding an investor conference call event to further discuss inflation, gold, and Bitcoin had captured the attention of the entire cryptocurrency industry. The investment bank called investors to discuss the “US Economic Outlook & Implications of Current Policies for Inflation, Gold, And Bitcoin”.
HIVE Digital Completes $28.75 Million Financing via Special Warrants to Bolster Bitcoin Mining
HIVE Digital Technologies raised CAD $28.75 million through the sale of 5,750,000 special warrants, supporting Bitcoin mining operations and corporate purposes.
MAS Proposes Open and Interoperable Framework for Digital Asset Networks
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has unveiled a comprehensive report introducing a framework for the design of open and interoperable networks for digital assets.
HKSFC Guidance on Virtual Asset Fund Managers: The 4 Key Takeaways
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (HKSFC) released the latest guideline “Proforma Terms and Conditions for Licensed Corporations which Manage Portfolios that Invest in Virtual Assets”, providing further guidance on fund dealing and virtual asset fund management.
New Bakkt Study Shows Ongoing Crypto Interest and the Need for Regulation
A recent study by Bakkt Holdings Inc (NYSE: BKKT) reveals that people's interest in cryptocurrencies remains strong despite recent market fluctuations.
Google Creates Web3 Team to Take Advantage of Growing Crypto Popularity
To set the ball rolling in Web3, Google is assembling a team to create services for developers in this ecosystem through its cloud unit, according to CNBC.
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.
Traditional Financial Giant Lloyd's of London Introduces Cryptocurrency Insurance for Hot Wallets
Insurance giant Lloyd’s has launched a new insurance product to protect digital asset holders against the rising threat of cybercrime in the crypto market.
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.
Pope Francis’s Pontifex Carpet Gift Sold as NFT for Charity Purpose in Afghanistan
A Pontifex carpet gifted to Pope Francis by Sheikh Mohamad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan during his visit to the Vatican in Sept 2016 was sold as an NFT for 25 Ether, approximately $81,886.
ARK Invest and 21Shares Launch Innovative Digital Asset ETF Suite
ARK Invest and 21Shares have launched a suite of digital asset ETFs, combining crypto-specific insights with traditional investment indicators, focusing on Bitcoin and Ether futures.
Hong Kong SFC Finalizes Regulatory Framework for Virtual Asset Trading Platforms
The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong concluded a consultation period today, revealing the finalized regulatory requirements for operators of virtual asset trading platforms licensed by the SFC.
Grayscale's Court Victory Influences SEC's Landmark Approval of Bitcoin ETFs
The U.S. SEC, under Chair Gary Gensler, has approved several spot Bitcoin ETFs, a significant regulatory shift influenced by a court victory by Grayscale. This decision marks a new era in cryptocurrency regulation, signaling greater acceptance and potential mainstream adoption of digital assets.
a16z Floats $600m Gaming Fund
After more than a decade of actively investing in the gaming industry, investment giant, Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) wants to further exert its influence in the space
Israel's Stock Exchange to Launch a New Platform for Digital Asset
The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange is planning to create a crypto platform through a project that will span for 5 years
Duma Approves Bill Placing a Ban on the Use of Digital Assets in Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a bill addressing the ban on the use of digital financial assets (DFA) for payments
DeFi Suffers $21M in Losses from Exploits
Decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms lost at least $21 million in February due to a series of exploits including flash loan reentrancy attacks, price oracle attacks, and other hacks across seven protocols. Noteworthy incidents included the reentrancy attacks on Platypus Finance and dForce network, the price oracle attack on BonqDAO, and the smart contract exploit on Hope Finance. These incidents follow a report by Chainalysis revealing that DeFi platforms lost $3.1 billion to hacks in 2022.
South Korea Probes OKX for Unregistered Operations
South Korean financial authorities are investigating OKX, a cryptocurrency exchange, for potentially operating without proper registration, following allegations from the Digital Asset Exchange Association.
HK to Issue Tokenised Green Bond, Open Market for Virtual Assets ETFs Trading
HKFTW2022: In the latest policy statement published in Hong Kong, regulators disclosed issuing tokenized green bonds this year and actively developing virtual assets trading.=
Shibarium Wallets Surge 200% to 306K in One Day: Limited Impact on Shiba Inu ($SHIB) Price
Shiba Inu's Shibarium Layer 2 network has experienced a 200% increase in wallet addresses, processing 524,559 transactions, and mining 368,891 blocks. The network's mainnet and cross-chain bridges are operational, enabling quick withdrawals. Despite this, the Shiba Inu price has only increased by 2.5% in the past 24 hours.
The Tale of Ethereum’s 6-Year Journey from Lows of $0.4 to Highs of $4650
ETH has shined so far this quarter because after setting an all-time high (ATH) of $4,400 recently, it soared to new historic highs of $4,650.
Kraken Brings Crypto Asset Liquidity to Skrill and Neteller
Paysafe, a leading specialized payments platform has chosen US-based cryptocurrency exchange Kraken as their crypto asset liquidity provider.
Senator Warren Focuses on Crypto Scam Risks for Seniors, Advocates New Legislation
Senator Warren emphasized the Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act, gaining bipartisan support to regulate crypto activities and protect vulnerable populations from financial fraud.
Regulating Cryptocurrencies like XRP with Securities Laws Not Always the Best Approach – Former SEC Executive
Joe Hall, a former SEC executive, has commented on the lawsuit against Ripple over XRP cryptocurrency. He, for one, thinks that crypto is here to stay.
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.
Telegram May Push TON Launch Date Before Facing SEC
After coming under fire from the United States Securities Commission (SEC) Telegram has allegedly informed its investors that it will postpone launching its Telegram Open Network (TON).
World Economic Forum Releases GSMI Global Blockchain Standards
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released blockchain standards dubbed the Global Standards Mapping Initiative (GSMI).
Magic Eden Embraces Compressed Solana NFTs
Magic Eden has introduced cNFTs, a cost-effective form of NFTs exclusive to the Solana blockchain. These compressed NFTs allow creators to produce content on a larger scale without the high cost of traditional NFTs. Despite criticism, Magic Eden clarified that they didn't create cNFTs, but integrated support for them. Developers need to understand Merkle trees and use specialized tools for minted NFTs.
US Treasury and IRS Propose New Regulations on Digital Asset Reporting
The US Department of the Treasury and the IRS have issued proposed regulations to improve transparency and compliance in the digital asset sector. Starting Jan. 1, 2025, brokers must report gross proceeds, payee statements, and gain/loss and basis information for sales. The regulations aim to close the tax gap and ensure uniformity in tax rules.
Rep. French Hill Eyes Financial Services Committee Leadership Amid Crypto Focus
Arkansas Rep. French Hill is poised to assume leadership of the House Financial Services Committee, bringing a crypto-savvy perspective to the role.
Germany to Permit Institutional Funds to Invest Billions in Crypto Assets for the First Time
The German administration is set to green-light legislation on Monday, which will permit institutional funds to invest as much as 20% in crypto assets like Bitcoin.
HK SFC Details JPEX Probe; CEO Affirms Hong Kong's Web3 Commitment
Hong Kong's SFC has provided a detailed timeline of its investigation into the fraudulent activities of the unlicensed virtual asset trading platform JPEX. Despite the ongoing case, SFC CEO Leung Fung-yee reaffirms that Hong Kong's commitment to developing a Web3 ecosystem will not waver.
Long-term Dormant Ethereum ICO Participant Activates $3.2 Million Worth of ETH
An Ethereum ICO participant re-emerged after 8.2 years of inactivity, transferring 2,000 ETH ($3.2 million) to four different addresses on October 21, 2023. Acquired at a mere $620 at the Ethereum Genesis, this move not only underscores Ethereum's substantial price appreciation but also hints at potential market dynamics as long-dormant assets re-enter circulation. The transaction could signal various intents, from cashing out to redistributing or reinvesting the holdings, each with its own set of implications for the Ethereum market.
Superstate Gains $14m in Series A Led by Distributed Global and CoinFund
Superstate, an innovative asset management firm, has secured a $14 million Series A financing round, aiming to expand its team and launch private funds for institutional investors.
Hong Kong to Unveil Virtual Assets-Related Policy Statement on Upcoming Fintech Week
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's government will release the plans for the development of virtual assets in the city during FinTech Week by the end of this month.
Africa Blockchain University Partners with YIELD App to Enhance NFT Education
African artists are set to be enriched about the value they can get from the booming non-fungible tokens sector.
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.
Bitcoin Options Worth $1.3 Billion Expire
The largest lot of Bitcoin options until the year's end expired on Nov 27. The number stood at 78,000 Bitcoin (BTC) with a notional value of $1.3 billion.
Crypto.com's $10.5 Million Mistake Leads to Legal Fallout for Australian Couple
A Melbourne couple faces legal repercussions after Crypto.com mistakenly transferred $10.5 million AUD to their bank account. Thevamanogari Manivel and her partner, Jatinder Singh, allegedly spent the funds on property and other assets. Manivel has been sentenced to an 18-month community corrections order, while Singh is set to face a plea trial on October 23, 2023.
Fireblocks Introduces 'Off Exchange' to Address Exchange Counterparty Risk, Integrates with Deribit
Fireblocks introduces 'Off Exchange', reducing exchange counterparty risk for institutional traders, allowing them to trade directly from on-chain MPC shared wallets, marking a significant advancement in digital asset trading.
Coinbase’s Registration Statement with SEC Reveals What Could Make Bitcoin and Ethereum Prices Plunge
Coinbase's registration statement for its public listing reveals what could potentially drag down the price of Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Binance Collaborates with Royal Thai Police to Disrupt Criminal Networks
Binance, in conjunction with the Royal Thai Police, has successfully disrupted major crypto fraudulent networks in Thailand through two significant operations. The collaboration led to the arrest of key individuals and substantial asset seizures, underscoring Binance's proactive stance against cybercrime and its ongoing commitment to enhancing security within the digital asset ecosystem.
NFT Trading Platform Giant MakersPlace Completes $30M in Series A Financing
Non-Fungible Token (NFT) trading platform MakersPlace announced the completion of a $30 million Series A financing jointly led by Bessemer Venture Partners and Pantera Captial.
The Bank Of Canada Stresses Stablecoin Regulation When Legislation Is Presented
Between 2020 and mid-2022, the fiat-referenced crypto asset market grew 30-fold to $161 billion in U.S. dollars. In February, the Canadian House of Commons proposed Bill C-249, Encouraging the Cryptoasset Sector Act. Canada's crypto community supported the law, but it was politically controversial and buried after its second reading.
Nigeria Plans to Regulate Digital Asset Platforms
Nigeria’s SEC is considering new regulations for digital asset platforms, allowing licensed digital exchanges to list tokens backed by certain assets. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether will not be among those assets. Nigeria aims to register fintech firms as digital sub-brokers, crowdfunding intermediaries, fund managers, and tokenized coins issuers. Crypto exchanges will not be registered until the central bank provides clear regulations.
EBA Issues Updated Guidelines for Crypto Asset Service Providers
The European Banking Authority (EBA) extends Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing measures to include crypto firms, aiming to harmonize regulatory approaches and mitigate financial crime risks in the EU.
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.
Fortex Launches Crypto Non-Deliverable Forwards
Fortex Technologies, a globally recognized multi-asset trading provider, has announced the expansion of its crypto services to include crypto non-deliverable forwards (NDFs), as well as an institutional platform for cryptocurrencies and digital assets.
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.
Binance's Market Dominance Challenged as OKX and Upbit Gain Ground
The 2023 CEX Market Report shows Binance's dominance diminishing as OKX and Upbit gain market share. Factors like on-chain data, user growth, and social media presence contribute to the evolving CEX landscape.
Thailand SEC Eases ICO Restrictions
Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to lift restrictions on retail investment in initial coin offerings (ICOs). The SEC aims to permit bigger investments in asset-backed ICOs, including those backed by real estate and infrastructure.
To Criminalize or Not to Criminalize Bitcoin and Crypto? Moscow Reconsiders
The State Duma is discussing its legislative plans regarding Bitcoin and cryptocurrency usage and has been reported to seemingly have a change of heart regarding digital assets adoption in Russia.
OECD Presents New Transparency Framework for Crypto-Assets to G20
For the upcoming G20 finance ministers' meetings, leaders are going to discuss the CARF framework that builds on certain enhancements to the Common Reporting Standard (CRS).
Swiss Central Bank Announces its Central Bank Digital Currency Trial a Success
The digital franc trial entailed settling large scale transactions between financial institutions through an experiment dubbed Project Helvetia.
Russian Prime Minister Calls for Civilized Approach to Crypto Regulation
Mikhail Mishustin, the Russian prime minister, has stated that the cryptocurrency market ought to be advanced in a civilized manner.
Andreessen Horowitz Hires Former CFTC Commissioner Brian Quintenz To Bolster Regulatory Expansion
The appointment of Brian Quintenz shows a sign of growing importance of compliance and regulation at Andreessen Horowitz.
Women in Blockchain: Sam Shrager of BCB Group
The Women in Blockchain Series describes the journeys of some of the pioneer women driving initiatives and changing the nature of work by leveraging this revolutionary technology.
Haru Invest Addresses Rehabilitation Procedures and Asset Recovery Concerns
On August 20, 2023, Hugo Lee, the CEO of Haru Invest, released an official statement addressing the concerns and questions raised by its members. Lee emphasized that Haru Invest is not evading accountability and remains committed to the efficient recovery of members' assets.
FATF Virtual Assets Guidelines for Cryptosphere Review
With the growing concern of virtual assets/cryptocurrencies being used as a medium for the financing of illegal activities, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) issues revised guidance from time to time to combat money laundering and terrorist financing involving virtual assets (VAs) and virtual asset service providers (VASPs).
Galaxy Digital Invests $44 Million Into Institutional Cryptocurrency
Galaxy Digital invests $44 million in institutional bitcoin custody platform GK8 to integrate its asset storage and management capabilities.
UK FCA Regulator Announces “Temporary Registration Regime” Extending Operating Deadline for Crypto Firms
The UK’s FCA has just announced a “temporary registration regime” which allows crypto firms who have previously applied to continue operating until July 2021.
Fidelity Digital Assets Head says Bitcoin Still Too Volatile To Be Store of Wealth
Tom Jessop, President of Fidelity Investments digital assets arm said his firm still uses the word “potential” when describing volatile Bitcoin’s ability to act as a store of value
UBS and OSL Pioneer Hong Kong's First Ethereum Tokenized Warrant
UBS AG, in collaboration with OSL Digital Securities, introduces Hong Kong's first tokenized warrant on the Ethereum blockchain, marking a landmark moment in financial innovation and blockchain adoption.
UK Embraces Crypto Innovation with Groundbreaking Financial Services Act
The UK government has taken a bold step forward in the financial services sector, embracing the dynamic world of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology with the passing of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023.
Jackson City in Tennessee Plans to Accept Property Tax Payment in Bitcoin
US Jackson City in Tennessee State intends to permit its residents to pay property tax in Bitcoin, Mayor Scott Conger reveals.
European Securities and Markets Authority Calls for Input on New EU Crypto Rules
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU's financial markets regulator, has initiated its first consultation package under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The authority is seeking stakeholder comments until September 20, 2023, marking a significant step towards establishing concrete rules for crypto markets in the EU.
Binance to Disable Multiple Old Deposit Addresses
Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, is retiring selected deposit addresses and memos on various blockchains, including Ether, Tron, BNB, and Stellar, as part of its infrastructure upgrade. The exchange encourages impacted users to obtain new addresses and memos to enhance security and efficiency, and the migration is scheduled for April to June 2023.
Will Gold Bull Peter Schiff Change His Mind on Bitcoin? Crypto Twitter Backs BTC
Peter Schiff and his son have brought their friendly banter regarding Bitcoin investments to crypto Twitter.
Only 5% of Financial Executives Want to Invest in Bitcoin in 2021, According to Survey
According to a survey, about 70% of financial executives said that they are watching closely what others are doing with Bitcoins and they would still like to hear more from regulators about the digital currency before allocating a portion of their company's cash reserves to the cryptocurrency.
Dinari Secures $10M Seed Funding, Expands Crypto Asset Offerings
Dinari, a blockchain-based investment platform, secures $10M in seed funding, launches RWAs on Arbitrum, and expands dShare with crypto-themed assets, bridging TradFi and DeFi.
NFT Monthly Trading Volume Records $4B on OpenSea
Despite being the new kid on the crypto block, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are stamping their authority as trendy digital assets based on increased adoption.
Massive Outflows and Burnt Ether Stimulate Ethereum Scarcity to Continue
Ever since the London Hardfork or EIP-1559 upgrade went live in August 2021, Ethereum’s supply continues to be depleted based on the burning mechanism incorporated.
JPMorgan Hires Former Microsoft Executive Tahreem Kampton to Its Digital Assets-Related Payments Group
Kampton comes with in-depth professional experience that will enable JPMorgan to develop its digital asset and blockchain division.
Stablecoins Wallet Addresses Records 12m with Holding at Least $1m
According to data from CoinMetrics, the total number of wallet addresses holding at least $1 million has topped 12 million.
Texas Passes Bipartisan House Bill 1666 Regulating Digital Asset Service Providers
Aiming to reinforce regulation in the digital asset industry, the Texas legislature has enacted bipartisan House Bill 1666. Set to take effect on September 1, 2023, the legislation imposes rigorous requirements on digital asset service providers in terms of handling customer funds.
Dubai Regulator Grants Virtual Asset License to Former Singapore Legislator's Company
The VARA license allows Calvin Cheng- a former Singaporean member of Parliament, for his Web3 company to operate within Dubai’s crypto market.
US Senate Finance Committee Seeks Input on Taxation of Digital Assets
The US Senate Finance Committee has issued an open letter to the digital asset community and other interested parties, seeking their input on the taxation of digital assets. The letter, dated July 11, 2023, was signed by Chair Ron Wyden and Ranking Member Mike Crapo.
Hong Kong's 2020 Budget: Digital Assets May be Incorporated into Regulatory Framework but not Blockchain
Financial Secretary of Hong Kong, Paul Chan been under intense pressure from lawmakers to dip into the government’s fiscal reserves to help the city get out of an economic slump. After months of anti-government protests and the emergence of the coronavirus epidemic, Hong Kong residents aged over 18 will receive a cash handout of HK$10,000. The budget also highlighted the forecast of an all-time high deficit of HK$139 billion for the coming fiscal year.
GDAC Exchange Heist Perpetrator Begins Moving Stolen Funds
The hacker who stole $13 million from GDAC exchange in April has started transferring the stolen funds. Initially, around 60.8 BTC was moved to a specific address, which then transferred 36.7 BTC to three other addresses. Currently, the balance in the initial address stands at 24 BTC. MistTrack continues to monitor the situation, shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by centralized exchanges in ensuring asset security.
Singapore High Court Approves iSanctuary's Use of NFTs for Financial Investigations
In a legal first for Singapore, the High Court has granted permission to UK-based financial investigation firm Intelligent Sanctuary (iSanctuary) to use nonfungible tokens (NFTs) in tracking and freezing assets related to a hack. The NFTs, created in partnership with Mintable, will serve as a warning to counterparties and exchanges and enable real-time tracking of transactions from the compromised wallets.
Mid-Size Banks Ask for Deposit Insurance Extension
The Mid-Size Bank Coalition of America (MBCA) has requested that the US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) extend insurance on all deposits for the next two years, which would immediately halt the outflow of deposits from smaller banks and stabilize the banking industry, according to a Bloomberg report. The MBCA proposed that the banks themselves fund the insurance program by raising the deposit-insurance assessment on lenders who opt to participate in the increased coverage, and the failure to provide this could result in up to 300 banks going under.
One River Asset Management Closes $41M Funding Round Led by Goldman Sachs
One River Asset Management has completed a $41 million Series A funding round led by Coinbase Ventures and Goldman Sachs.
Neara Secures $24M Series B Boosting Utilities' Resilience and Renewable Energy Integration
Neara, with a fresh $24M Series B funding, is set to bolster its AI-centric infrastructure modeling platform, aiming to mitigate climate risks faced by utilities and accelerate renewable energy integration. The investment led by Prosus Ventures will fuel Neara's global expansion and the development of its novel System of Enablement functionality, facilitating a smoother transition towards renewable energy, especially in the US and Europe.
US Rep. Tom Emmer Fears Criticism of Digital Payment Innovation May Repress Progress
In a congressional hearing which was held on January 30, US Representative Tom Emmer has expressed his concern about the excessive criticism of innovations in digital payment, saying that it may repress its progress.
EU Council Adopts DAC8 Directive to Enhance Tax Oversight on Crypto Transactions
The Council of the EU has adopted the DAC8 directive to enhance administrative cooperation among national tax authorities concerning crypto-asset transactions and tax rulings for high-net-worth individuals. The directive broadens the scope of assets covered, mandates automatic information exchange, and aligns with global standards set by the OECD and G20 to address challenges posed by the digital economy.
Nigeria Releases New Rules Classifying Crypto as Securities
In a move that might boost crypto trading in Nigeria, the nation’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rolled out “rules on issuance, offering platforms, and custody of digital assets” for virtual firms.
Bitcoin’s Long-Term Address Activity Rebounding, Signaling a Breakout sign
On-Chain metrics provider Santiment noted that BTC long-term address activity surged to levels witnessed in mid-April, which could signal a breakout.
New Zealand Police Froze $140 Million in Assets and Crypto From Alleged BTC-e Exchange Money-Launderer Alexander Vinnik
New Zealand police said they have frozen $140 million linked to Russian crypto fraud suspect, Alexander Vinnik, alleged to have been the operator of the now-defunct BTC-e crypto exchange.
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.
Jacobi Asset Management Introduces Europe's First Premier Bitcoin ETF with a Green Initiative
Jacobi Asset Management launches Europe's first Bitcoin ETF on Euronext Amsterdam, blending crypto investment with a green initiative. The ETF, compliant with SFDR Article 8, offers a unique Renewable Energy Certificate solution.
Coinbase Counters Senator Warren's Allegations
Coinbase denies Sen. Warren's allegations of using ex-government officials to resist digital asset regulations, highlighting its commitment to responsible crypto regulation.
PayPal’s Crypto Trading Services Officially Launch in the United States, Driving Bitcoin’s Price Past 16K
PayPal’s crypto services are officially available for use in the United States. In response to the announcement, Bitcoin's price spiked and pushed past $16K.
Exploring AI Stability: Navigating Non-Power-Seeking Behavior Across Environments
The research explores AI's stability in non-power-seeking behaviors, revealing that certain policies maintain non-resistance to shutdown across similar environments, providing insights into mitigating risks associated with power-seeking AI.
US SEC Hiring Attorneys for Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit
The US SEC is hiring general attorneys in New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. for its Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit in the Division of Enforcement. The job will involve investigating crypto asset securities and cyber issues, drafting subpoenas, and questioning witnesses. This move comes after the SEC chairman Gary Gensler asked for $2.4 billion in funding to chase down crypto misconduct.
University of Cambridge: Crypto Asset Users Have Skyrocketed to 101 Million Globally
The University of Cambridge has found that the estimated number of cryptoasset users stands at 101 million worldwide.
Malaysia’s Securities Commission Touts Cryptocurrency’s Potential Amid a COVID-19 Digital Normal
The Securities Commission of Malaysia backs cryptocurrency use and says it has great potential, despite a lack of understanding regarding digital assets in the country.
"Web3.0 is Much, Much Better for Creators Than Web2", a16z Suggests
Renowned Venture Capital (VC) firm, Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) has shared data that shows creators have a lot of benefits when they pitch their tents with Web3.0 rather than Web2.0.
South Africa Classifies Crypto as Financial Assets
The country appears to be developing regulations consistent with those being developed by other regulators in the global 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.
GameStop Phases Out NFT Platform in Response to Regulatory Challenges
GameStop has announced the closure of its NFT marketplace, citing regulatory uncertainty. Effective from February 2, 2024, the platform will cease operations but assures that NFTs remain accessible on the blockchain.
Bank of England is for Stablecoin and CBDC, but Says ‘Bitcoin Has No Connection at All to Money’
The governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, shared his views on Bitcoin and said that the cryptocurrency “had no connection at all to money.”
New Jersey State Considering New Bill to Set New Requirements for Cryptocurrency Businesses
The New Jersey state legislature received a new bill, the Digital Asset and Blockchain Technology Act by Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez. This new bill would require cryptocurrency and virtual currency to obtain a license to operate, allowing for more consumer-friendly protections.
BOJ Governor: Japan Should Prepare "Thoroughly" for the Issuance of its Digital Currency
Haruhiko Kuroda, the Bank of Japan (BOJ) governor, has highlighted the need for the nation’s central bank to prepare thoroughly for the rollout of its digital currency with initial experiments expected for this spring.
Bitcoin Will Be the Best Performing Asset in Two Years by a Big Margin, says Wall Street Veteran
Wall Street veteran and CEO of Real Vision believes that Bitcoin will be the best performing asset in the next two years. Although Bitcoin’s price has struggled to stay above $12,000 twice this month, he thinks that the world’s first cryptocurrency could rally to $100,000 soon, even mentioning the $1 million threshold.
Paxos’ Blockchain Settlement Platform Goes Live with Settling Credit Suisse and Instinet Trades
New York-regulated stablecoin issuer, Paxos, launched its blockchain-based settlement platform, after announcing the service in late 2019. The new service enables settlement of US-listed equity trades between broker-dealers Swiss financial services firm Credit Suisse and Nomura Group-backed Instinet.
FTX debtors report over $4 billion in scheduled assets
FTX debtors have reported over $4 billion in scheduled assets among various company silos as of November 2022 in a filing with the United States Bankruptcy Court. The report revealed that Alameda Research held the majority of scheduled assets but had "potentially material claims that have been filed as undetermined," while the data surrounding cryptocurrency holdings or transactions was limited.
NFT Trading Platform Giant OpenSea Raises $100 M in Series B Funding, Becoming Next Crypto Unicorn
The well-known NFT trading platform giant OpenSea announced the completion of a US$100 million Series B financing, joining the track of crypto unicorn officially.
Canadian Dollar Stablecoin QCAD Launched for Mass Market
Canada Stablecorp Inc. has launched a new regulated Canadian Dollar stablecoin called “QCAD”.
BTC & ETH Have Been the Best Risk-Adjusted Assets over the Last Year
Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) have been the best risk-adjusted assets over the last year based on the Sharpe Ratio.
Equilibrium and Chainlink to Power Synthetic Assets and Stablecoins on Polkadot
Equilibrium has chosen Chainlink, a tokenized oracle network, to power synthetic assets, lending, and stablecoins using its smart contracts.
US House Committee to Probe Crypto Crimes in November Hearing
The US House Financial Services Committee will hold a hearing today, November 15, 2023, to examine illicit cryptocurrency activities, including money laundering and terrorist financing, and discuss the Department of Justice's focus on these crimes.
$115 Million in Bitcoin Was Acquired by an Asset Manager as its Primary Treasury Reserve Asset
Stone Ridge Asset Management, home to $13 billion in assets under management (AUM) has recently purchased $115 million in Bitcoin.
YouTube Sees NFTs as Catalysts, Tieing Deeper Relationships with Users
YouTube sees NFTs as stepping stones towards a stronger connection between creators and viewers, according to Chief Product Officer Neal Mohan.
Digital Asset Protection Firm Coincover Secures $30 Million in Funding Round
Foundation Capital and CMT Digital invest $30 million in Coincover to safeguard digital assets.
Indonesia Set to Impose Income Tax on Crypto Assets from May
Indonesia has announced that it will introduce taxes on crypto assets as part of efforts to generate tax revenue from the rising digital asset trading activities in the country.
Why Hong Kong Will Be a Leading Digital Asset Trading Centre in Asia
Reasons why Hong Kong will a leading digital asset trading centre in Asia.
FTX Group and Alameda Research Recover Crypto Assets
Following a liquidity crisis and bankruptcy filing, FTX Group and Alameda Research are making progress in recovering lost crypto assets. FTX has reached a settlement with Modulo Capital and is seeking to claw back funds from Genesis Global, while Alameda Research received $60M from OKX in a recovery effort.
Wealthfront To Enable Cryptocurrency Investments for its Clients
Wealthfront is the latest mainstream firm that plans to offer cryptocurrencies to its clients.
Bitcoin Addresses with more than $1 Million Go Parabolic
Onchain data provider Glassnode has revealed that BTC addresses holding more than $1 million increased by 150% to 66,540.
Market Downturn Triggers Delisting of Crypto ETFs in Australia
Crypto winter is considered to have caused low demand for such ETFs in Australia. Cosmos Asset Management said it plans to delist three of its cryptocurrency ETFs on the Cboe stock exchange.
South Korea Tightens Regulations on Crypto Mixers Amid Money Laundering Concerns
South Korea's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is set to introduce new regulations targeting digital asset mixers, mirroring similar moves by the US. These measures aim to curb the use of crypto mixers for illegal money laundering.
CFTC Commissioner Calls for Reduced Cryptocurrency Anonymity
CFTC Commissioner Christy Goldsmith Romero has proposed reducing the anonymity of cryptocurrencies as a means of managing associated risks. Romero spoke at City Week 2023 in London, stating that market integrity, national security, and financial stability cannot be compromised.
IOSCO Releases Landmark Policy Recommendations for Crypto and Digital Asset Markets
The International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), a leading international body of securities regulators, recently published an influential report titled 'Policy Recommendations for Crypto and Digital Asset Markets Consultation Report.'
Bermuda Remains Committed to Crypto Despite FTX Collapse
Bermuda's Premier and Finance Minister, Edward Burt, stated that despite the collapse of crypto exchange FTX in nearby Bahamas, Bermuda will continue to accommodate digital asset and blockchain technology companies due to the benefits they offer. The territory, which implemented a regulatory framework for digital assets, recently released its first stablecoin powered by the Polygon blockchain.
J.P. Morgan Creates Onyx Blockchain Unit As JPM Coin Leveraged for Cross-Border Payments
JPMorgan Chase has set the ball rolling by deploying its digital currency, the JPM Coin, for commercial purposes creating a new blockchain business unit dubbed Onyx.
Digital Currency Group Reports Over $1 Billion Loss Due to 3AC Collapse
Digital Currency Group (DCG) has reported losses of over $1 billion in 2022, largely due to the collapse of Three Arrows Capital (3AC) and falling cryptocurrency prices. DCG's lending arm, Genesis, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January, as it was 3AC's largest creditor. DCG's fourth-quarter losses came to $24 million, while revenues came in at $143 million. Full-year revenues for DCG came in at $719 million, with total assets of $5.3 billion.
Bank Of Russia Opposes International Trade Crypto Investment
The Bank of Russia is prepared to look into the possibility of permitting the usage of cryptocurrencies within the borders of the country, but this would be done solely for the purpose of conducting a legal experiment. Elvira Nabiullina, the governor of the Bank of Russia, stated that the major problem that the central bank has always had with cryptocurrencies is that they cannot be used as a payment tool.
Morgan Stanley Chose This Year’s Best Safe Haven Asset—It’s Not Bitcoin
The Morgan Stanley analysts said that although the Japanese yen and the Swiss franc remain safe havens, their dynamics are shifting.
UAE's Ras Al Khaimah to Launch Free Zone for Virtual Asset Companies
Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE is launching RAK Digital Assets Oasis, a free zone for digital and virtual asset companies. The purpose-built zone will support emerging technologies in the virtual assets sector, including blockchain, NFTs, and DApps. The free zone is set to open for applications in Q2 2023.
What is SHIB Burn and Impact on Price?
Explore SHIB burn: the process of removing SHIB tokens from circulation, the addresses used, and its impact on price.
Is Blockchain-Based Virtual Reality the Future?
For years, advocates of virtual reality have struggled to overcome several major barriers to mass adoption — centralised corporations controlled user accounts, hackers eliminated digital assets, and developers lacked incentives to create quality VR content. Now, blockchain is changing the game.
FTX Debtors' Filing Sets Controversial Valuations for Cryptocurrency Claims Post-Collapse
TX debtors propose a valuation for user claims based on digital asset prices at the time of the exchange's collapse, sparking objections from users due to the significant rise in cryptocurrency prices since then.
Singapore Payment Services Act Now in Effect For Crypto Firms
The Monetary Authority of Singapore now requires cryptocurrency providers and exchanges to be licensed under some of the same regulatory elements as traditional financial service providers.
Protego Becomes the Second Federally Chartered Crypto Bank in United States
Protego, Washington state-chartered trust firm, has received a conditional approval from the OCC to become the second nationally chartered crypto bank in the U.S.
Nansen CEO Predicts Six Key Trends in Crypto
Nansen.ai CEO, Alex Svanevik, outlined six pivotal crypto trends on Twitter, emphasizing the synergy of fintech and crypto, DeFi's potential in gambling, the growing relevance of real-world assets like T-bills, the impending rise of Web3 gaming, SocialFi's development, and Physical NFTs' retail integration. The thread also welcomed community input, reflecting on other emerging trends like blockchain in fantasy sports.
Bitcoin Dominates Digital Asset Fund Flows with $140M Inflows in a Week
In the past four weeks, digital asset investment products have seen a significant surge in inflows, totaling $742 million, according to the latest weekly report from CoinShares. This marks the largest run of inflows since the final quarter of 2021.
Hyundai Emerges as First Automaker to Roll Out Community-Based NFTs
South Korean auto giant Hyundai Motor has entered the non-fungible token (NFT) market after partnering with the ‘Meta Kongz’ NFT brand to enhance its customer community and brand awareness.
Financial Way of Future, Building Wealth Are Key Drivers of Owning Crypto: Study Shows
A study showed up to 42% and 41% of people think owning crypto is the financial way of the future and wealth-builders, respectively, according to Visa.
NFT Surpasses Crypto and Ethereum in Google Searches
To show their trendiness, NFT Google searches have surpassed those of Ethereum and crypto, according to Google Trends.
IRS Refuses Watchdog Request to Clarify 2019 Crypto Tax Guidelines
The Internal Revenue Service will not clarify how taxes work with cryptocurrencies and digital asset transactions in the US according to a US congress watchdog’s report released on Wednesday.
Blockchain.News Interview with Co-founder and CIO of CryptAM, David Demmer on Digital Asset Management
We conducted an interview with the Founder and CIO of CryptAM, a Fintech firm that offer high net-worth and institutional investors access and diversification into the digital asset market. He also shared with us his views and insights on the current digital asset landscape.
Kevin Rose, co-founder of Moonbirds, falls victim to phishing attack
Moonbirds co-founder Kevin Rose. He lost about $1.1 million in NFTs to a phishing fraud.
South Korea Top Four Crypto Exchanges Launch Joint Venture To Abide By AML Regulations
The heads of Bithumb, Korbit, Coinone, and Upbit signed a memorandum to form a company with a system, which will enable them to adhere to anti-money laundering regulations.
US Crypto Tax Law Study
Indiana and Maine universities publish a study examining US cryptocurrency tax law. The paper proposes a new tax framework for cryptocurrency losses, which would prevent taxpayers from using them against other capital gains.
Meta offers lucrative pay packages for metaverse developers
Facebook's parent company, Meta, is offering its metaverse developers salaries ranging from $600,000 to almost $1 million, despite billions in losses for its virtual reality suite. CEO Mark Zuckerberg remains committed to Meta's long-term vision of the metaverse, even after the division responsible for its development recorded its largest yearly loss of $13.7 billion.
Binance to Launch UK Crypto Exchange to Meet Client Demand
Binance, the leading cryptocurrency exchange has announced that it will launch a regulated crypto trading platform in the UK, in the coming months. Binance.UK is planning to create a trading platform to allow retail and institutional investors to sell and buy cryptocurrencies using euros and pounds.
Paxful Exits Venezuela’s P2P Crypto Bitcoin Market Following US Sanctions
Paxful has withdrawn its crypto trading services from Venezuela after the country was classified as high-risk by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
Grayscale Plans to Offer More Digital Asset Products to Meet Rising Investor Demand
Grayscale Investments LLC has announced plans to explore other digital assets.
LG Electronics to Roll Out Crypto Wallet
As part of plans to expand its business scope to include platforms and software, South Korean tech giant LG Electronics is launching a crypto wallet application dubbed “Wallypto.”
Luxembourg: The FinTech Hub For Cross Border Asset Management
Luxembourg for Finance (LFF) is a public-private partnership that acts as the agency for the development of the financial center of the small nation.
DOJ Targets SBF's Jets for Forfeiture
Samuel Bankman-Fried, also known as "SBF," faces the possibility of asset forfeiture, including two luxury jets, as per a filing by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) dated October 4, 2023. The forfeiture is linked to multiple charges against Bankman-Fried, who is currently on trial. The aircraft in question are embroiled in an ownership dispute involving the U.S. government, FTX, and Island Air Capital.
MEXC Global Enables Crypto Purchases with Zero Transaction Fees via Fedwire, SWIFT
MEXC Global has permitted purchases that attract zero transaction fees through SWIFT and Fedwire to boost the globalisation of cryptocurrency trading.
CI Global Asset Management Partners with Galaxy Digital, Launching Blockchain and Metaverse ETFs
CI Global Asset Management (“CI GAM”), a major Canadian asset management firm, has partnered with Galaxy Digital to launch ETFs focused on blockchain technology and Metaverse.
Andreessen Horowitz Names New York Stock Exchange’s Top Regulator to Head Its Cryptocurrency Unit
Andreessen Horowitz venture capital firm hires the current head of the New York Stock exchange (NYSE)’s regulatory unit.
The First Crypto Bank in Puerto Rico Rolls Out Digital-Asset Custody Service
FV (Fintech Ventures) Bank, a global financial entity registered in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico, has launched a digital-asset custody service for seamless safeguarding and interoperability of crypto and fiat.
The third-largest French bank Introduces Euro-Pegged Stablecoin
Société Générale has introduced EUR CoinVertible, a euro-pegged stablecoin, marking a significant shift in the integration of traditional finance with digital assets.
Crypto Is Entering the Early Stages of Mainstream Adoption, says Kraken CEO
Jesse Powell, the co-founder and CEO of crypto exchange Kraken, believes that the crypto sector is in its early stages of mainstream adoption.
Federal Judge Refuses to Consolidate Class-Action Lawsuits Against FTX Exchange
A federal judge has denied a request to consolidate five proposed class-action lawsuits against the bankrupt crypto exchange FTX. The plaintiffs, including Julie Papadakis, Michael Elliott Jessup, Stephen Pierce, Elliott Lam, and Russell Hawkins, accuse former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried and other executives of misappropriating assets. While all the plaintiffs are pursuing Bankman-Fried, the cases also involve various other defendants, including outside auditors and exchange promoters. The judge pointed out that not all defendants had the opportunity to respond yet, and there's no need to consolidate before hearing their side.
VanEck's Ambitious Move: A Spot Bitcoin ETF with a "HODL" Ticker
VanEck submits a fifth amended application for a spot Bitcoin ETF under the "HODL" ticker, aiming for SEC approval and significant market impact.
EDX Markets is Expanding in Singapore
EDX Markets expands to Singapore, backed by Citadel Securities and Fidelity Digital Assets, introducing innovative trading options like spot and perpetual futures, and emphasizing non-custodial clearing solutions.
AI and Competition Policy: Insights from the White House Meeting
The White House meeting on competition policy and AI highlighted concerns about market concentration in critical AI components and its impact on small businesses. The discussion emphasized the need for fair competition and scrutinizing industry behaviors. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to promoting competition and supporting small businesses in AI development.
Galaxy Asset Management's AUM Exceeds $10 Billion Milestone
Galaxy Asset Management reaches a new pinnacle with over $10 billion in assets under management, reflecting robust institutional interest in digital assets.
ShapeShift Settles with SEC for Operating as Unregistered Crypto Asset Dealer
ShapeShift AG has settled with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for operating as an unregistered dealer of crypto asset securities, agreeing to a cease-and-desist order and a $275,000 penalty.
Unchained Partners with Build Asset Management for Bitcoin-Backed Credit Fund
Unchained, a bitcoin financial service provider, has partnered with Build Asset Management to invest in Unchained loans. The partnership aims to unlock the value of bitcoin for borrowers. Unchained's lending division has a 170% surge in Q1-2023, despite the 2022 crypto market contagion and bitcoin's 65% value drop.
Samsung Plans to Develop Top-Notch Metaverse Devices to Foster Accessibility
Samsung Electronics has revealed plans to make the metaverse more accessible by developing innovative devices as it sees it as a new business model.
Simplify Asset Management Files Application of the "MAXI" Bitcoin ETF
According to filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a Registered Investment Adviser Simplify Asset Management filed the application for Simplify Bitcoin Strategy Risk-Managed Income ETF under the ticker symbol MAXI.
Spain Strengthens Crypto Oversight to Settle Tax Debts
Spanish Ministry of Finance is implementing legislative reforms to increase cryptocurrency monitoring, enabling seizure of digital assets for tax debt resolution, aligning with EU regulations.
Federal Reserve Governor Michelle W. Bowman Stresses Banking Supervision including Digital Assets
Governor Michelle W. Bowman, a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, emphasized the need for a responsive and responsible regulatory framework in the banking sector.
U.S. Should Align Itself with Digital Assets to Safeguard its Interests, Says Chainalysis Founder
During a Senate hearing, Chainalysis founder Jonathan Levin opined that the U.S. ought to prioritize and invest in digital assets to get the upper hand when enhancing financial transparency, public safety, and national security.
Exclusive: LabCFTC's Melissa Netram Talks Advancing Policy and Regulation in FinTech and Blockchain Through Times of Crisis
The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) established LabCFTC as an initiative under the General Counsel’s office in 2017 aimed at promoting FinTech innovation and competition. The office has been very active with over 400 different private meetings held with innovators in the last three years. In addition, LabCFTC has published three primers in the marketplace based on their understanding of smart contracts, artificial intelligence, and crypto-assets.
New York Seeks to Stop Bitcoin Mining For 3 Years Until Environmental Impact Assessment Done
A new bill could force crypto firms to halt their Bitcoin mining activities in New York state.
The Bank of Russia Wants Strict Limits for Non-Professional Russian Crypto Investors
Russia has published a proposal that sets strict limits on the amounts of digital assets acquired by non-professionals investors in a year.
Ethics of Web3 Discussed at Paris Blockchain Week
The second day of Paris Blockchain Week 2023 featured a panel discussion on the Ethics of Web3. The panelists agreed that ethical frameworks often lag behind technology and that innovation comes before any ethical standards are implemented. They highlighted the upcoming Markets in Crypto-Assets framework in the European Union as an example of turning ethics into law to protect people and innovation.
HashKey Group Secures $100 Million in Series A Funding
HashKey Group raised $100 million in a Series A financing round, reaching a pre-money valuation of $1.2 billion. The Hong Kong-based company plans to use the funds to enhance its Web3 ecosystem and expand its Hong Kong business.
Siemens Issues World's First Blockchain Bond
Siemens claims that "releasing the bond on a blockchain provides a variety of advantages compared to prior approaches," including removing banks as middlemen.
Brazil's largest private bank Launches Crypto Trading Platform in Brazil
Brazil's largest private bank, Itaú Unibanco, has launched a cryptocurrency trading service, offering Bitcoin and Ethereum trading, with plans to expand further.
Greenland Financial Holdings to Apply for Virtual Asset Trading License in Hong Kong
Greenland Financial Holdings, a subsidiary of Greenland Group, is planning to apply for a virtual asset trading license in Hong Kong, according to Shanghai Securities News.
Digital Asset Liquidity Provider OrBit Markets Wins Google Cloud Customer Award
OrBit Markets, a Singapore-based liquidity provider, has been awarded the 2023 Google Cloud Customer of the Year Award for its exceptional use of Google Cloud technologies for trading data processing.
Regulated Stablecoins Likely to Remain in Use by 2030
A panel of digital regulatory experts at the World of Web3 (WOW) Summit in Hong Kong discussed the future of regulated stablecoins. The group concluded that regulated stablecoins are likely to remain in use by 2030 and that their growth rate in the market supports this idea. The panelists acknowledged the growth of the crypto industry and emphasized the importance of both centralized and decentralized approaches to digital assets.
BlackRock's Strategic Shift: Layoffs Amidst Bitcoin ETF Anticipation
BlackRock Inc plans to lay off 600 employees, following a similar pattern from 2023. Meanwhile, it eagerly awaits the SEC's decision on its Bitcoin ETF application, a potential game-changer in the crypto market.
Coinbase's Legal Chief Fires on SEC's Crypto Regulation Approach
On July 8, Paul Grewal, the chief legal officer of Coinbase, tweeted a number of times about his displeasure with the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) approach to cryptocurrency regulation.
CBI and Liminal Collaborate for Digital Asset Security in India Amid Crypto Scams
The Central Bureau of Investigation of India is partnering with Singapore-based Liminal to secure digital assets seized during investigations amid rising cryptocurrency frauds in India.
Investment Bank Cowen Joins Cryptocurrency Craze with Digital Asset Division Launch
Cowen joined the rush by major financial services companies to bet on digital assets like Bitcoin. The bank has created a new unit dedicated to helping customers to hold, issue, and trade digital assets.
IRS Introduces New Form 1099-DA for Reporting Income from Digital Asset Transactions
The US IRS has introduced Form 1099-DA for cryptocurrency brokers to report digital asset transactions, aiming to improve compliance and ensure accurate tax reporting from digital assets starting January 1, 2025.
Malaysia’s Securities Commission Legalizes Digital Asset and Crypto Trading
Malaysia’s Securities Commission, which is responsible for overseeing compliance with Islamic laws in finance, has allowed trading of digital assets.
OMG Announces Kaiko to Expand Financial Instruments Global Identifier (FIGI) Standard for Crypto Assets
BOSTON, MA – JANUARY 20, 2021 - Financial Instruments Global Identifier® (FIGI®) is an open standard for the issuance of unique identifiers that can be assigned to financial instruments including common stock, options, derivatives, futures, corporate and government bonds, municipals, currencies, and mortgage products.
FTX Japan Launches Blockchain-based Proof of Solvency to Enhance Transparency and Security
FTX Japan has introduced a blockchain-based Proof of Solvency (PoS) to ensure the transparency and security of its customer's assets. The PoS, announced on September 28, 2023, by COO Seth Melamed, enables the objective verification of asset management, allowing customers easy access to verify their balances. The details of PoS will be published weekly on the Ethereum blockchain, marking a significant step towards enhancing trust and transparency in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
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.
JPMorgan Backs Bitcoin to Rise 28%, Saying Cryptos are Preferred Alternative Asset
In its latest report, JPMorgan gives Bitcoin a higher valuation. The bank is also more bullish on cryptocurrencies than other traditional financial assets.
MicroStrategy Adds Additional 2574 Bitcoins To its BTC Portfolio for $50 Million
Nasdaq-listed MicroStrategy Inc has made another move to shore up its Bitcoin portfolio by purchasing an additional 2574 BTC for $50million.
EU Policymakers Vote for Blockchain Use to Fight Tax Evasion, Crypto Asset Non-Taxation
The European Parliament has voted in favour of leveraging blockchain technology for tax compliance, with a majority of 566 out of 620 members backing the motion.
PayPal May Buy Digital Asset Custodian BitGo Following Crypto Market Entry
PayPal may be looking to penetrate the market further following its recent crypto payments announcement, rumors indicate the firm may buy digital asset custodian BitGo.
Omega Secures $6M in Funding to Revolutionize Bitcoin and DeFi Ecosystem
Omega announces a $6M funding round to launch its decentralized infrastructure, aiming to redefine omnichain and Bitcoin DeFi without relying on traditional bridges or L2 solutions.
OKX Sends $60M to Alameda Research
Crypto exchange OKX sent $60M worth of digital assets to Alameda Research as part of a recovery effort to pay back customers of its sister company FTX. Alameda Research currently holds over $284M worth of assets, including USDT and ETH.
SEC Probes Investment Advisers Offering Crypto Custody Without Proper Qualification
After the fall of FTX and the Ripple lawsuit in 2022, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is now looking into Wall Street corporations that may be violating custody regulations.
Mastercard, BitOasis Roll Out Crypto-Linked Cards in the MENA Region
Payment giant Mastercard has inked a deal with Middle East-based cryptocurrency exchange BitOasis to establish a series of crypto card programs aimed at boosting daily cryptocurrency usage in the Middle East & North Africa region.
Signum Digital Receives Approval for Security Token Offering Platform
Signum Digital, a joint venture of Coinstreet and Somerley, has received approval-in-principle from Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission for its security token offering platform called CS-Pro. The platform will allow investment in tangible assets such as private equities, real estate, art, and collectibles.
Holistic Approach to Investing in Cryptocurrency
The basic criteria for selection and investing in Cryptocurrencies using the three pillar approach.
RBL Bank Partners with Accenture to Build A Digital Bank Infrastructure
RBL Bank announced that it will partner with Accenture, who envisions that it will enhance the bank’s information technology (IT) network and services.
PwC Reports Huge Shift in M&A and Fundraising from US to Asia and EMEA in 2019
In 2019, crypto fundraising and M&As began migrating over to Asia, Europe and the Middle East and saw a lack of new VC investments as the majority of funding came from crypto firms within the industry, according to PWC’s latest report released on April 6.
Montana Passes Crypto Miner Rights Bill
Montana’s House of Representatives passed Bill number 178, which seeks to enshrine the rights of crypto miners and prohibit local authorities from obstructing crypto mining operations. The bill now awaits Governor Greg Gianforte’s signature to become law. The legislation establishes a “digital asset mining right,” forbids discriminatory electricity rates charged to crypto miners, and removes the authority of local governments to use zoning laws to impede crypto mining activities.
Financial Stability Risks from Cryptoassets in Emerging Market Economies Highlighted by BIS
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) and the Consultative Group of Directors of Financial Stability (CGDFS) have released a report on the financial stability risks from crypto assets in emerging market economies. The report highlights the rapid evolution of digital finance and the potential risks associated with cryptoassets, such as market, liquidity, credit, operational, and capital flow risks.
Raiffeisen Bank to Launch Crypto Investment Service
Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien is teaming up with Bitpanda to provide crypto investment services. Customers can invest in various assets regardless of the capital amount. The new offering will feature over 2,500 digital assets, including Bitcoin and Ether.
Fidelity Reiterates Bitcoin's Unique Value as a Primary Investment Choice
Fidelity Digital Assets revisits Bitcoin's unmatched value proposition in a recent study, emphasizing its secure, decentralized nature. Shared by MicroStrategy's Michael Saylor, the study advocates for Bitcoin's primary consideration by investors venturing into the digital asset sphere.
NFT Sales Slide to a 12-Month Low Amid Crypto Meltdown
The bloodbath in the crypto market has contributed to sales in the non-fungible token (NFT) sector slipping to a 12-month low, according to crypto analytic firm Chainalysis.
Argentinians Seek Shelter in Stablecoins after Economy Minister Resignation
Argentinians have taken refuge in stablecoins after the nation’s economy minister Martin Guzman resigned over the weekend attributed to the financial crisis crushing the South American country.
The White House Publishes Guidelines for Regulating Digital Assets
The U.S President, Joe Biden has set up a new framework on how cryptocurrency will be traded and regulated in the U.S
OpenTrade and WOO X Unite to Offer Tokenized T-Bills to Asian Investors
OpenTrade collaborates with WOO X to unveil access to tokenized T-Bills for Asian investors. This partnership, leveraging Circle Research’s Perimeter Protocol, is a response to the escalating demand for tokenized T-Bills over DeFi yields. Concurrently, WOO X advances its strategic footprint in South Korea, aligning with CODE compliance solutions to broaden its product accessibility in the region.
Bitfinex CTO: Keeping Crypto Safe with State-of-the-Art Cyber Security
Paolo Ardoino, the CTO of Bitfinex and Tether tells us why safety and security should always be a top priority for crypto exchanges.
SEC Chair Gensler Seeks More Funding for Regulatory Programs
The US Securities and Exchange Commission is seeking additional money to fund its programmes to facilitate initiatives and cover additional costs.
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.
Ripple Swell 2020: Clear Regulations and CBDC Will Drive Cryptocurrency Adoption Forward
Financial leaders virtually discussed the regulatory framework for crypto assets and how crypto adoption could be driven forward.
Web3 Security Infrastructure GoPlus Security Reaches Strategic Deal with Dtools
Web3 security startup GoPlus Security has partnered with Web3 ALL-IN-ONE tool Dtools to provide comprehensive security data support for its newly launched token security detection function.
Standard Chartered Becomes the First Bank to Join the Global Digital Finance Patron Board
Standard Chartered, the British multinational bank (MNB), announced recently that the corporation would be joining the crypto and digital finance industry membership body Global Digital Finance (GDF) Patron Board.
Celsius Unloads Over $125M in Ethereum, Stirs Crypto Market Speculation
Celsius Network's transfer of over $125M in Ethereum to exchanges amid bankruptcy stirs speculation in the crypto market.
Thailand’s SEC to Eradicate Any Stumbling Blocks to Digital Asset Advancement
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Thailand has revealed plans to revise the royal decree on digital asset businesses in 2020 to boost digital assets’ growth, as well as shielding investors from avoidable risks.
Spot Bitcoin ETFs: Transforming Crypto Investment Landscape
The SEC's approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, including Valkyrie's, marks a pivotal moment for crypto investments, potentially attracting billions in inflows and indicating a surge in Bitcoin's mainstream acceptance.
Bakkt Advances with $150 Million Capital Raise Initiative
Bakkt Holdings, Inc. receives SEC's nod for a "universal shelf" registration, paving the way for up to $150 million capital infusion over three years, enhancing its strategic financial flexibility and growth potential in the digital asset sector.
Nearly 25% of Small Businesses in 9 Countries Intend to Roll Out Crypto Payment Option: Visa
Payment giant Visa conducts a study indicating that almost a quarter of small businesses spread across 9 nations intend to introduce the crypto payment option this year.
New Zealand Eyeing the Possibility of Rolling Out a CBDC
New Zealand is in the race of setting up a central bank digital currency (CBDC) because it sees it as a stepping stone towards attaining an efficient monetary policy tool.
Ethereum 2.0 Rival Raises $21.6M Round Led by Andreessen Horowitz for Web-Scale Decentralized Application Platform
Decentralized applications startup Near Inc announced $21.6 million tokens raised led by venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). Joined by other investment firms, including Libertus, Animal Ventures, Notation Capital, Blockchange, Pantera Capital, and Distribution Global, the token sale is the network’s second funding, following a $12.1 million round last July.
Fidelity: 60% of Institutional Investors Believe that Digital Assets Have a Place in their Portfolio
Fidelity Digital Assets surveyed 774 institutional investors across the United States and Europe, and 80 percent of those who were surveyed found something appealing about digital assets. The research was conducted from November 2019 to early March 2020 and is the second consecutive year that Fidelity Digital Assets has conducted this survey for US institutional investors and the first for European investors.
Capital Inflows into Crypto Investment Products, Hit a 3-Month High of $193m
In the past week, inflows into crypto investment products reached $193 million. A scenario last seen in mid-December 2021, according to digital asset management firm Coinshares.
Ripple CTO Regrets Selling Ether for $1 Each, Missed Out on Millions as ETH Looking Bullish
Ripple chief technical officer (CTO) David Schwartz disclosed that he previously had 40,000 Ether in his possession, but that he liquidated it in 2012.
Hong Kong’s OneDegree to Provide Digital Asset Protection Insurance with Munich Re
OneDegree is developing more technology to provide protection to participants in the digital assets market.
Russian Sberbank Conducts First Digital Asset Trade on its Blockchain Platform
Sberbank expects digital assets trading to be rolled out to the bank’s customers later this year.
KPMG Partners with Coin Metrics to Boost Institutional Crypto Adoption
KPMG has teamed up with Coin Metrics to enhance institutional adoption of blockchain and cryptoassets offering proprietary analytics, trusted data & insights.
US Credit Unions Gain Access to Partner with Crypto Assets Service Providers
The United States National Credit Union Administration granted domestic credit unions under the aegis of the Federally Insured Credit Unions the permission to enter into partnerships with third-party digital currency trading platforms.
Fireblocks Integrates Astar Network, Boosting Secure DeFi Access for Institutions
Fireblocks has now incorporated Astar Network. With the new integration, over 650 banks and financial institutions can now tap into Astar's thriving DeFi ecosystem, as well as trade, swap, and lend digital assets on Astar via Fireblocks.
China to Award DCEP Worth $1.5 Million to Shenzhen Residents to Test Digital Yuan
China’s central bank, the People's Bank of China (PBOC), has teamed up with Shenzhen city to distribute DCEP worth 10 million yuan, approximately $1.5 million to residents.
Ripple May Dump Over 96 Million XRP Soon
Ripple's strategic handling of 240M XRP in December 2023 stabilized the market and may influence future cryptocurrency dynamics.
Alien Worlds Takes the Helm as the Top Blockchain Game, Approximately 11 Million Daily Transactions
Alien Worlds has emerged as the leading blockchain game with nearly 11 million daily transactions undertaken by more than 700,000 monthly active users.
Bitcoin Recovers from Plunge Triggered by Confirmation Hearing for SEC Chair Nominee Gary Gensler
Bitcoin (BTC) dipped after Gary Gensler said that it was a challenge for the SEC to keep cryptocurrency markets free of fraud.
Meet the FinTech Entrepreneur: Co-Founder of FinFabrik, Florian Matthaeus Spiegl
There has been a lack of innovation and digitization in the capital market systems, we sat down with Florian Spiegl, the Chief Operating Officer of FinFabrik in Hong Kong, to explore his journey from the traditional capital markets industry to the new modern digital space. FinFabrik, a start-up focused on bridging the gap between the traditional financial markets and the digitization of assets has come a long way helping institutions to digitize illiquid and alternative assets.
Hong Kong to Release Cryptocurrency Exchange Licensing Guidelines
The Hong Kong Securities Futures Commission (SFC) plans to release guidelines for cryptocurrency exchange licensing next month, in support of trading services to retail investors by June 1. AML/KYC regulatory requirements were key considerations in the consultation process. Some trading platforms have already received licenses, while others have chosen to cease operations.
Thailand's Market Watchdogs Suggest Crypto Regulation to Avoid Threatening Financial Stability
Regulators in Thailand, including The trio of the Bank of Thailand (BOT), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Ministry of Finance (MOF), issued a joint statement on cryptocurrencies that threaten the local financial ecosystem.
Hong Kong's SFC Warns of Improper Practices by Unlicensed Virtual Asset Trading Platforms
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has warned against unlicensed virtual asset trading platforms (VATPs) engaging in improper practices, including false licensing claims and non-compliance with regulations.
Tritum Raises $1.1m Funding Round to Accelerate Institutional Digital Assets Adoption
Tritum disclosed the new funds would be used to continue accelerating the expansion of the throughput and size of each of its existing operating businesses.
Will Bitcoin Replace Gold as A 'Traditional Safe-Haven Asset?' Experts Debate
Nigel Green, CEO, and founder of financial consultancy firm deVere Group, addressed Bitcoin’s bullish traction on the crypto market and boldly stated on his Twitter platform that the cryptocurrency was potentially going to “knock gold from its long-held position” of being a safe-haven asset.
Central Bank Executive Says Hong Kong Working On Investor Protection Measures
Central bank governors from around the world are currently in Thailand to discuss the role of central banks amid evolving financial technology. Eddie Yue, chief executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority discussed the rise of digital assets and central bank digital currencies (CBDC) and the risks associated with the new technology. Changyong Rhee, governor of the Bank of Korea was not so optimistic about the future of blockchain technology, especially in the monetary sector.
PwC Report: Asian Institutional Investors Opt for Third-Party Custody Solutions for Digital Assets
A joint report by Aspen Digital and PwC titled "State of Digital Asset Custody - Understanding and implementing digital asset custody for institutional investors" reveals a rising demand for institutional-grade digital asset custody solutions among family offices, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), and external asset managers (EAMs) in Asia.
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink Says Bitcoin Can Evolve Into Global Asset and Impact Dollar
Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock the world's largest asset manager with $7.4 trillion assets under management, says Bitcoin can evolve into a global asset and impact the US dollar.
Chainalysis Research: Crypto Assets Worth $50 Billion Exited China in 2019
Tether and cryptocurrency assets valued at nearly $50 billion left China in 2019 according to Chainalysis.
SEBA Bank Secures SFC License, Expanding Crypto Services to Hong Kong
Swiss cryptocurrency bank SEBA Bank has been granted a Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission license to offer trading, distribution, advisory, and asset management services in the Asia Pacific region.
Hacking Attempts on Upbit Surge to 159,061 in First Half of 2023
Hacking attempts on South Korea's largest cryptocurrency exchange, Upbit, have surged to 159,061 in the first half of 2023, according to data submitted to the National Assembly. The figure represents a 2.17-fold increase compared to the same period last year. Lawmaker Park Sung-jung criticizes the ambiguous role of the Ministry of Science and Technology in regulating the exchange.
Russian Finance Ministry Believes Crypto Should be Regulated not Banned
The Ministry of Finance in Russia believes that the ban on crypto-assets should be shelved. Proper regulations would provide both transparency and protection to citizens.
With Recent $9.5 million Offering BTCS Gains Institutional Investor Interest
BTCS, a digital asset blockchain technology-focused company, recently closed an institutional investor-backed $9.5 million financing comprised of 9,500,000 shares of its common stock and common stock warrants to purchase up to 7,125,000 shares of common stock at a combined purchase price of $1.00 per share in a registered direct offering.
Flashbots Co-Founder Stephane Gosselin Resigns Following Disagreements with Colleagues
Gosselin’s departure has left a leadership hole at Flashbots.
Caroline Ellison Of Alameda Avoids 110-Year Sentence With Plea Agreement.
The agreement limited Caroline Ellison's prosecution to criminal tax offenses. $250,000 bail would free her instantly. The FBI holds former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried. He'll be sent to the Southern District of New York for court.
Tiger King's Carole Baskins Calls Bitcoin "the Future" in BTC Birthday Video
Bitcoin whitepaper turns twelve tomorrow, nine celebrities including the Tiger King documentary’s infamous antagonist Carole Baskins have wished BTC many happy returns.
Bitcoin Maximalist Max Keiser says Investors Holding Assets Other than BTC and Gold are in Trouble
According to Max Keiser, due to the renewed expansion of the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet, all assets are in trouble, except gold and Bitcoin.
$1 Billion in Bitcoin Moved, Making It the Largest Dollar Value Crypto Transaction in History
On-chain crypto data analytics recently picked up a Bitcoin transaction worth more than $1 billion.
Fasset to Drive Financial Inclusion in Indonesia with Mastercard
Digital assets-based fintech startup Fasset Technologies has partnered with payments giant Mastercard to drive financial inclusion in Indonesia.
Fidelity Study Shows 70% Institutional Investors Eyeing for the Crypto Market
Despite institutional investment in the crypto market evaporating, a study conducted by Fidelity shows that 7 in 10 institutional investors are eyeing the crypto sector in the future, most of them intend to purchase digital assets.
G20 To Establish Standards For Global Crypto Regulatory Framework
The Financial Stability Board, IMF, and BIS will propose worldwide crypto regulations.
Former a16z Partner Katie Haun's Crypto VC Fund Raises $1.5 Billion
Former federal prosecutor Katie Haun’s crypto venture capital fund has raised $1.5 billion to invest in crypto-related startups.
What is Conch AI?
Conch AI is an AI-powered writing assistant offering features like rewriting, summarizing, answering questions, and generating text. It also bypasses AI detection algorithms. Available as a Chrome extension.
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.
Hong Kong Suffers Surge in Crypto Scams in 2022
Hong Kong police reported a surge in crypto-related scams in 2022, with losses amounting to HK$1.7 billion ($216.6 million), up 106% from the previous year. The number of crypto-related scam cases reported in Hong Kong also surged by 67% from 2021. Such scams accounted for over 50% of the HK$3.2 billion ($407 million) stolen from city residents in technology crimes. The Hong Kong police CyberDefender website reported almost 23,000 cases of technology-related crimes in 2022. The use of cryptocurrency has made it more complicated for enforcement to track criminal funds, as fraudsters can hide their identities, transactions, and final destination.
BIS Survey: 93% of Central Banks Engaged in CBDCs, 15 Retail and 9 Wholesale CBDCs Expected by 2030
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) has released a survey revealing that 93% of central banks are now engaged in some form of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) work, with retail CBDCs taking the lead over wholesale CBDCs.
Stablecoin Reserves May Be Held in National Banks, US Treasury Office Provides Insight
The OCC announced that national banks and federal savings associations could hold reserves for customers with stablecoin assets.
Hackers Steal $500,000 Worth of Tokens from Arbitrum Airdrop
Hackers have reportedly stolen $500,000 worth of tokens from Arbitrum’s airdrop by using vanity addresses to redirect the airdropped tokens to their own addresses. The use of vanity addresses to claim crypto assets has been known to compromise the security of users’ private keys, making it easier for hackers to steal crypto assets.
BaFin Declines to Classify NFTs as Securities, Recommends Case-by-Case Approach
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority of Germany (BaFin) has stated that it is not yet prepared to classify non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as securities. While NFTs may be considered investments in certain cases, BaFin suggests that classification should be approached on a case-by-case basis. The lack of immediate exchangeability and standardization makes it unlikely that NFTs will be classified as crypto assets. However, if an NFT contains documentation of exploitation rights or ownership, it could be considered an investment. BaFin does not expect NFTs to comply with the licensing requirements of the Payment Services Supervision Act or fall under its Anti-Money Laundering supervision, except for NFTs that are considered "crypto assets."
Fractional Rebrands to Tessera after Raising $20m from Paradigm
Fractional, an NFT-based platform, has rebranded its name to Tessera and has also raised $20 million as it is pursuing avenues to re-affirm its foothold in the digital collectable world.
WWE Launches John Cena-Inspired NFTs Just in Time for SummerSlam
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) announced the creation of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) inspired by 16-time world champion John Cena.
Ethereum’s Growth Hit 1.53M New Addresses per Month in 2021
Ethereum capped 2021 on a high with a 399% annual return. This significant run can be linked to the fact that more participants joined the ETH network at a rate of 1.53 million new addresses monthly.
UK's FCA Introduces New Financial Promotions Regime for Cryptoasset Firms
The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued a letter to cryptoasset firms outlining a new financial promotions regime. This legislation, set to be enforced from 8 October 2023, requires all entities marketing cryptoassets to UK consumers, including those based abroad, to adhere to the new regime.
FTX Seeks to Liquidate $1.4 Billion Anthropic Stake Amid Bankruptcy Proceedings
FTX seeks court approval to divest its $18 billion stake in Anthropic, part of its post-collapse asset liquidation strategy, to repay customers and fulfill stakeholder commitments.
Machine Learning Network Fetch.ai Shares Vision of Interoperable Blockchains
Fetch.ai has a vision: to bring machine learning services to every ledger and blockchain.
Mastercard Attains CipherTrace to Boost Security and Fraud Detection in the Crypto Ecosystem
Payment giant Mastercard announced the acquisition of CipherTrace to offer businesses powerful intelligence about the crypto economy as digital assets continue becoming more intertwined with daily activities.
Hong Kong SFC Chief Executive: New Guidelines for Crypto Trading Platforms Prioritize Investor Protection
The Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) announced that the upcoming guidelines for operators of virtual asset trading platforms will place investor protection at the forefront.
Major Banking and Financial Associations Urge SEC to Amend SAB 121 for Digital Asset Custody
The Bank Policy Institute, American Bankers Association, Financial Services Forum, and SIFMA have requested modifications to Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 121 to address challenges in digital asset custody for US banking organizations. The aim is to align provisions with recent policy developments and practical experience.
Doppel Secures $14M in Series A Funding Led by Andreessen Horowitz
Doppel, a San Francisco-based AI digital risk protection company, secures $14M in Series A funding led by Andreessen Horowitz, aiming to enhance AI-powered brand security against digital threats like impersonation and phishing.
Ripple CEO Hints at Firm's Likely Move from US after DOJ Report
Ripple's Chief Executive Officer has hinted that unfavorable regulations may force the company to relocate its headquarters out of the United States.
Virginia Proposes Regulatory Framework for Digital Asset Mining and Transactions
Virginia Senate Bill No. 339, introduced by Senator Salim, aims to regulate digital asset mining and transactions, exempting businesses from certain licenses and providing tax benefits for digital asset exchanges.
VanEck Announces Launch of Ethereum Futures ETF (EFUT)
VanEck announces the launch of VanEck Ethereum Strategy ETF (EFUT), targeting Ethereum futures contracts for capital appreciation. EFUT, listed on CBOE, complements VanEck's Bitcoin ETF (XBTF) with a tax-efficient structure.
Andreessen Horowitz to Raise $4.5B for Two New Crypto Funds
Wallet Street Venture Capital firm Andreessen Horowitz is rallying investors for a $4.5 billion dual fund targeted at making strategic investments in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Dubai Seeks to Become Hub of Metaverse
Dubai has set the ball rolling to improve people’s lives and render creative solutions by positioning itself as the global capital of Web3 through its new blockchain and metaverse technology.
The UK's HMRC Begin Tax Talks for Cryptocurrency
November 2019 has seen newly published guidelines come into place, with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) collecting advice and consulting with third parties to create new principles on different taxes in the United Kingdom.
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).
NFA issues new rule for digital asset commodities
The National Futures Association has issued a new compliance rule to address fraud and misconduct by its over 100 members involved in digital asset commodities. The new rule will take effect on May 31 and applies only to Bitcoin and Ether.
Bitfinex and Polygon zkEVM Facilitate Tether Gold Transactions
Bitfinex has integrated Tether Gold transactions via the Polygon zkEVM transport layer, marking a significant step towards cost-effective and secure digital asset transactions from October 11, 2023.
Active Bitcoin Addresses Hit a 14-Month Low as Long-Term BTC Holders Continue Accumulating
The number of active BTC addresses reached a 14-month low of 43,639.482, as revealed by on-chain metrics provider Glassnode.
Australian Taxation Office Clarifies CGT on DeFi and Crypto Wrapping
The Australian Taxation Office has issued guidelines on the capital gains tax implications for decentralized finance activities and crypto token wrapping, following a recent security breach.
Treasury Secretary Yellen Highlights Economic Recovery and Addresses Financial Risks
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen highlighted Biden Administration's economic achievements and ongoing financial stability efforts, focusing on banking, climate change, cybersecurity, AI, and digital assets in a testimony to the House Committee on Financial Services.
Cypherpunk Holdings Sells All Crypto Assets to Avoid Market Volatility
Cypherpunk has turned all of its Bitcoin and Ether holding to cash to avoid being hit by the ongoing crypto market crash. The firm has, however, affirmed that it is still bullish on cryptocurrencies.
BIGG to Acquire Web3 Company TerraZero in $20M Deal
BIGG Digital Assets plans to acquire TerraZero Technologies Inc. for $20 million, a metaverse company with a 161% growth in Q1 2023. TerraZero will create a subsidiary for BIGG, with TerraZero's CEO serving a 12-month term.
CFTC Chairman Calls For Principle-Based Not Rules-Based Regulation For Crypto
Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Heath Tarbert has stated his preference for the financial governance to be principle based rather than a strictly enforced set of rules. This extends to cryptocurrency and digital assets.
Japan Freezes Assets Linked to Hamas Funding
Japan has frozen the assets of nine individuals and a cryptocurrency firm accused of financing Hamas, following US sanctions. This move is part of a global effort to disrupt militant group financing channels, focusing on the challenges of virtual currencies in facilitating illicit financial flows.
CBDCs Require Balance between Data Access & User Privacy Protection, HashCash CEO Says
CBDC would need a delicate balancing act between data access and user privacy protection in terms of taming illegal activities, according to HashCash Consultants CEO Raj Chowdhury.
US States Challenge CBDC as Legal Tender
Four U.S. states - Utah, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Tennessee - have filed bills to exclude Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) from their legal definitions of money, reflecting rising state-level resistance and concerns over privacy and federal overreach.
Uniswap v4 Aims to Dominate Long Tail Asset Market
Uniswap plans to deploy version 4 of its decentralized exchange, aiming to capture long tail assets and small capitalization tokens, enhancing its current offering.
White House Report Casts Doubt on Cryptocurrencies
The White House's Economic Report includes a chapter questioning the benefits of cryptocurrencies, with 35 pages dedicated to debunking them. It argues that crypto assets fail to deliver on their promised benefits, and that they are too volatile to be a stable store of value or reliable medium of exchange.
NBA's LeBron James Becomes Face of Crypto.com
To get more limelight during the annual playoff championship game of the National Football League (NFL) called the Super Bowl, Crypto.com chose NBA's LeBron James as its new catalyst for mainstream adoption.
Interactive Brokers Taps OSL To Offer Digital Assets Services in Hong Kong
Interactive Brokers is working with OSL Digital Securities to expand the use of virtual assets dealing services in Hong Kong, witnessing investors' growing interest in exploring opportunities in investing in crypto-assets.
HashKey Group Partners with HKMA on Groundbreaking wCBDC Project
HashKey Group collaborates with HKMA on a wCBDC initiative to revolutionize interbank settlements and tokenized asset management.
UK’s Argo Crypto Mining Firm Begins Paying CEO in Bitcoin
Argo blockchain crypto mining firm has become the first publicly listed company to pay its CEO in Bitcoin.
Court Freezes Over $1 Billion in Three Arrows Capital Assets
The British Virgin Islands court has imposed an asset freeze on Three Arrows Capital, highlighting the significant challenges and volatility in the cryptocurrency sector.
BlockFi, Neuberger Berman Partner to Offer Crypto Asset Product Suite, Including ETFs
BlockFi and Neuberger Berman have partnered to provide new management products, including exchange-traded funds to clients. The firms aim to capitalize on investors’ enthusiasm for digital assets
Bank of England Outlines Framework for Regulating Crypto Assets
The Bank of England has announced a notice outlining securities law requirements that apply to cryptocurrency trading and how they may be tailored for the crypto’s business model.
South Korea Intensifies Measures Against Unlicensed Crypto Exchanges
South Korea's financial regulators are urging public disclosure of unlicensed crypto exchanges, as part of their efforts to regulate the digital asset market and safeguard investors.
Australia’s Financial Regulator Issues First Regulatory Roadmap for Crypto Assets
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority admitted that although the crypto sector is small, its rapid growth poses risks in the future if it remains unregulated.
Russian Banking Giant Sberbank to Tokenize Financial Assets Using Stablecoins
Sberbank, Russia’s biggest bank, has disclosed the possibility of issuing tokens to be utilized in digital financial assets (DFA) settlements. The token will be in the form of a stablecoin to be pegged to the nation’s currency, the Russian ruble.
Goldman Sachs to Launch Data Service to Classify Digital Assets
Goldman Sachs has floated a new crypto categorization tool dubbed Datanomy
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.
US SEC Releases Guidelines for Digital Asset Securities as Exchanges Scramble to Delist XRP
US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a statement to indicate that it is open to comment from the crypto industry regarding digital asset securities.
Why Bitcoin Should Make Up 5% of Your Investment Portfolio, According to Fidelity
Fidelity Digital Assets makes the case for why Bitcoin should make up 5% of a given multi-asset investment portfolio.
Ethereum Sustains Price Above Key Support Level as Addresses With 1+ Coins Hit ATH
Ethereum is trading above the $1,800 support level as its bull run is currently fueled by retail holders.
Institutional Investors Seek Tokenization Solutions
Institutional investors are seeking solutions for easy implementation of tokenization to improve liquidity for global assets expected to reach $145.4 trillion by 2025. Polygon has been working with global players such as Hamilton Lane, which has already tokenized part of its $824 billion assets under management, and JPMorgan, which executed its first cross-border DeFi transaction on the Polygon network.
Citi Bank Launches "Digital Asset Group" for Developing Crypto Products
Citi group announced a "digital asset group" has been launched in its wealth management department for developing crypto-related products.
Kraken Shuts Down San Francisco-based HQ, Blaming for Local Safety
Kraken, the first cryptocurrency exchange to become a bank in the U.S., has shut down its headquarters in San Francisco on grounds, that blaming local safety is hard to run a business.
Budget to Provide for Fulfilling Expanded Crypto Surveillance Goal: CFTC
The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has requested a robust budget for its Fiscal Year 2023 in order to expand its digital assets or cryptocurrency surveillance targets.
ESMA Launches Key Consultations on Crypto-Asset Regulations under MiCA
ESMA conducts consultations on reverse solicitation exemptions and classifying crypto-assets as financial instruments, aiming to harmonize EU regulations with MiFID II.
EDX Markets Debuts Cryptocurrency Trading Platform and Wraps Up Latest Investment Round
In a key milestone, EDX Markets has successfully kick-started its cryptocurrency trading operations and completed a fresh funding round
Trust Wallet Discloses Security Flaw Resulting in $170k Loss
Crypto wallet Trust Wallet has reported a security vulnerability, resulting in almost $170k in losses for some users. The vulnerability has been fixed after Trust Wallet found out about it through its bug bounty program.
Coca-Cola to Launch First-Ever NFT Collectibles to Honor International Friendship Day
Coca-Cola has partnered with Tafi, a leading designer of avatars and digital wearables, for the company’s first-ever non-fungible token (NFT) to celebrate International Friendship Day to be held on July 30.
Stablecoins to be Issued by Licensed Banks and Trust Companies in New Japanese Law
In a move to protect investors, Japan’s parliament has passed a bill classifying stablecoins as digital money that must be connected to the nation’s currency, yen, or another legal tender.
Malaysian Authorities to Extend Crypto Regulations to Wallet Providers
The Malaysian Securities Commission plans to extend crypto regulations to wallet providers in the country owing to their importance in the cryptocurrency ecosystem.
BNB Chain's Red Alert Flags 191 High-Risk Projects
Binance's BNB Chain has added 191 new high-risk projects and decentralized applications (DApps) to its weekly red alarm list. The list is based on smart contract assessment and includes projects suspected of issuing fake tokens, having high tax fees, or malfunctioning websites or Twitter handles. The alert is aimed at helping users research before investing, and does not represent the risk level of the underlying DApp projects.
Microsoft Copilot: SMEs with Affordable AI Integration
Microsoft's introduction of Copilot AI for SMEs, with individual subscriptions at $20 and business plans at $30 per month, brings advanced AI capabilities, including GPT-4 Turbo, to small and medium-sized businesses, enhancing productivity and decision-making.
French Hill Challenges Warren's Anti-Money Laundering Act
U.S. Representative French Hill questions the efficacy of Senator Elizabeth Warren's Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act, arguing it won't deter terrorist organizations from using cryptocurrencies. The act's broad regulatory scope, including miners and validators, sparks controversy.
Voyager Digital Sells Assets via Coinbase Amid Bankruptcy
Voyager Digital, the CeFi platform that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, has reportedly sold assets through Coinbase and received at least $100 million in USDC. The company has sent daily crypto transfers to Coinbase, with holdings of nearly $530 million in crypto, including Ether and Shiba Inu. The US SEC has objected to Binance.US acquiring over $1 billion of Voyager's assets.
Danish FSA Orders Saxo Bank to Divest Crypto Holdings, Indicating Tightening Regulation
The Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (Finanstilsynet) on July 4, 2023, issued a directive to Saxo Bank, instructing the financial institution to divest its holdings in cryptoassets. This move is based on the current legal framework, which prohibits banks from trading cryptoassets for their own account.
Crypto Assets Conference 2023 (CAC23A) | March 29 to March 30, 2023 | Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
As crypto jargon makes its way into everyday business, Bitcoin and Ethereum disrupt the traditional understanding of currencies and the use of DeFi in traditional banking is increasingly inevitable - the world of digital assets evolves and matures in unprecedented style. With Web3 having the ability to revolutionize how society interacts and tokenization transforming the concept of ownership, blockchain technology has more use cases than ever before. Increasingly, established industries adapt to these use cases and a future without digital assets becomes unthinkable.
Jim Cramer Says it is Still Not Too Late to Invest in Bitcoin as BTC Price Surges Toward $20,000
In his Twitter post On Nov. 24, Cramer stated that he thinks that it is not too late to invest in Bitcoin, despite the crypto rallying to new highs.
dYdX Transitions to Public Benefit Corporation
dYdX Trading Inc. has updated its charter to become a Public Benefit Corporation on 17 October 2023, as announced by its founder, Antonio. This move aims at aligning the company more closely with the web3 community, promoting global economic and technological advancement through open-source and decentralized crypto asset exchanges. This transition, a first of its kind in the DeFi sector, enables dYdX to balance shareholder value with public benefit.
US Regulators Overreach to Protect US Dollar Supremacy with TON Decision, Will Bitcoin be next?
If the last two years have revealed anything about our global monetary system, it is that the US Federal Reserve and President Donald Trump really do not want a competitor to the US Dollar.
Unchained Forms Strategic Alliance with Bakkt to Enhance Bitcoin Custody Network
Unchained and Bakkt have partnered to enhance their Collaborative Custody Network, enhancing their capacity to secure over $3 billion in bitcoin assets.
Warren Buffett Changes Attitude on Gold, Not Bitcoin Reminds Peter Schiff
Warren Buffett now started to buy bitcoin, reminding us of the days when he said he would never invest in Bitcoin.
HSBC to Initiate Institutional Digital Assets Custody Service in 2024
HSBC plans to launch a digital assets custody service for institutional clients in 2024, partnering with Metaco to expand its digital offerings to include tokenised securities.
Grayscale Partners with NYSE Arca to File for Spot Ethereum ETF Conversion
Grayscale Investments has collaborated with NYSE Arca to file Form 19b-4 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), aiming to convert the Grayscale Ethereum Trust into a spot Ethereum ETF. This move is a significant part of Grayscale's ongoing strategy to transition its entire range of 17 crypto investment products into ETFs. The filing follows the SEC's recent approval of the first Ethereum futures ETFs.
DTCC to Acquire Securrency, Advancing in Digital Asset Infrastructure
DTCC announces its strategic acquisition of digital asset infrastructure specialist, Securrency. This move will bolster DTCC's digital asset offerings and streamline the integration of blockchain technology.
Bakkt to Shift Focus to B2B Technology Solutions
Bakkt said it would continue to provide crypto and loyalty experiences via SaaS and API solutions on a secure platform.
Hong Kong's SFC Sets 2024-2026 Agenda: Emphasis on Tokenization and Virtual Asset Innovation
The SFC’s Strategic Priorities for 2024-2026 focus on enhancing Hong Kong's financial sector by maintaining market resilience, boosting global competitiveness, embracing financial innovation, and improving institutional resilience.
Qraft Technologies and Hex Trust Forge AI-Driven Partnership to Revolutionize Digital Asset Investment Landscape
Qraft Technologies partners with Hex Trust, leveraging AI to enhance digital asset investments. The alliance aims to bridge traditional and digital asset management, optimizing cryptocurrency portfolios.
Mitsubishi UFJ Trust Bank and Ginco Collaborate to Offer Japan's First Crypto Asset Trust Services
Mitsubishi UFJ Trust Bank and Ginco are partnering to provide Japan's first-ever trust services for crypto assets, in line with Japan's Payment Services Act and tax reforms.
Exclusive: Fidelity Digital Assets Explains the Core Concerns Traditional Institutions Still Have Towards Cryptocurrencies
Blockchain.News spoke with Christine Sandler, the Head of Sales and Marketing at Fidelity Digital Assets to understand more about the concerns institutional investors may have and the barriers to entry to the cryptocurrency market.
Could Bitcoin’s Next Price Boost Come from $8.5T in Sovereign Wealth Funds?
A prominent on-chain analyst believes Bitcoin's next boost is likely to come from sovereign wealth funds which hold around $8.5 trillion AUM, being managed by nations.
Jesse Powell to Step Down as Kraken CEO
Jesse Powell will remain as executive chairman of the crypto exchange, focusing his time on product development and crypto industry advocacy.
Blockchain Startup Developed Solution to Crypto's Irreversible Transaction Problem
An Israeli startup has developed a new technology that could prevent the loss of funds caused by human error when sending Bitcoins or other digital assets. The mistake is common as wallet addresses are represented by a unique and random string of alphanumeric characters.
BIS and Global Central Banks to Explore Asset Tokenization in "Project Agora"
The BIS collaborates with major central banks to study asset tokenization's potential to enhance the monetary system and cross-border efficiencies.
Kraken Secures E-Money License in EU, Expands Virtual Asset Services in Spain
Kraken, a San Francisco-based crypto platform, has secured an E-Money Institution license from the Central Bank of Ireland and registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider in Spain. These moves are part of Kraken's strategy to expand its European operations.
MicroStrategy's Bitcoin Holdings Reach 190,000 Amid Q4 Financials
MicroStrategy, the world’s foremost corporate bitcoin holder, bolstered its holdings by 31,755 bitcoins in Q4 2023, reaching 190,000 BTC despite a revenue dip. The move underscores a strategic pivot towards digital assets amid fluctuating tech and financial landscapes.
White House Asks Regulators to Enforce Crypto Rules Citing FTX Crises
White House's Press Sec Karine Jean-Pierre said the administration is monitoring the FTX saga
Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission Sets New Regulations for Crypto Exchanges
The Securities and Futures Commission, Hong Kong’s financial regulatory has set out new regulations for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency exchanges on Oct. 6. Announced by Ashley Alder, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SFC made an announcement in his speech at the Hong Kong FinTech Week 2019. Following his speech, the SFC also published a new regulatory approach to “virtual asset trading platforms,” on its website.
Title: EU Council Adopts DAC 8 Directive to Enhance Tax Oversight on Crypto Transactions.
The Council of the EU has adopted the DAC8 directive to enhance administrative cooperation among national tax authorities concerning crypto-asset transactions and tax rulings for high-net-worth individuals. The directive broadens the scope of assets covered, mandates automatic information exchange, and aligns with global standards set by the OECD and G20 to address challenges posed by the digital economy.
Grayscale Adds Five New Crypto Investment Trusts including One for Chainlink and Filecoin
Grayscale Investments has expanded its product line by launching new investment trusts including Chainlink, Filecoin, and Basic Attention Token.
Bittrex Files Motion to Dismiss SEC Charges
A motion to dismiss the case has been filed on behalf of Bittrex and its co-founder, William Hiroaki Shihara. The motion, filed on July 2, 2023, argues that the SEC lacks the authority to regulate crypto assets as securities and that the Commission has failed to provide adequate notice of the alleged securities law violations.
Crypto Price Shows Stronger Interconnectedness with Stock Market amid COVID-19: IMF
As a change of tune, the IMF alludes to the fact that crypto-assets like Bitcoin (BTC) have transformed from an obscure asset class to an integral part of the digital asset revolution.
AICPA Publishes a Practice Aid for Digital Assets
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) has not been oblivious to the rapidly changing digital assets ecosystem as it has availed a practice aid to help in crypto accountancy. The practice aid is founded on professional experience and literature from members of the Digital Assets Working Group.
Reserve Bank of Australia Rolls Out CBDC Pilot Project
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has launched a year-long trial to explore a central bank digital currency's (CBDC) business models and innovative use cases.
SEC Commissioner & ‘Crypto Mom’ Hester Peirce Suggests Plan to Determine Whether an Asset is a Security
“Crypto Mom” Hester Peirce is not the biggest fan of using the Howey Test to determine whether crypto assets are securities.
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.
The Sandbox, FlickPlay Collaborate to Accelerate Interoperability in Metaverse
With the metaverse expected to be worth between $8 trillion and $13 trillion by 2030, virtual world gaming platforms The Sandbox and FlickPlay have joined hands to enhance its adoption by offering players a blockchain asset.
Spot Bitcoin ETFs: A Pivotal Decision by SEC Awaits
The SEC is nearing a decision on approving spot Bitcoin ETFs, which could significantly impact the cryptocurrency market and investor sentiment, with discussions focusing on minor amendments.
Even Mark Cuban Isn't Immune: CZ's Essential Guide to Fortifying Your Crypto Assets
Changpeng Zhao, CEO of Binance, emphasized the vulnerability of even experienced crypto users, citing a recent hacking incident. He highlighted the importance of security awareness and practices in the crypto space, pointing to an article he wrote three years ago. CZ highlighted the need for understanding basic security concepts, deciding between storage methods, and using strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
Ukraine's Draft Bill on Digital Currencies Undergoes First Parliamentary Hearing
Ukraine's proposed draft bill for regulating digital assets in the country has passed its first parliamentary hearing.
NASDAQ Listed MicroStrategy Buys Up Additional $175 Million in Bitcoin
Bitcoin centric NASDAQ listed MicroStrategy has shored up its Bitcoin (BTC) portfolio by investing an additional US$175 Million.
What is Real World Assets (RWA)?
Real World Assets (RWA) refer to physical or tangible assets that have intrinsic value and exist in the real world.
Square Establishing Bitcoin Hardware Wallet, Confirmed by CEO Jack Dorsey
Digital payment company Square is building an "assisted custodial" bitcoin hardware wallet, confirmed by founder and CEO Jack Dorsey and head of hardware Jesse Dorogusker.
BlackRock Launches Pioneering Tokenized Asset Fund in Partnership with Securitize
BlackRock unveils its first tokenized asset fund with a $100,000 minimum investment, signaling a major move by the asset management giant into digital assets.
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.
GameStop Abandons Crypto As Q3 Losses Reach $95M
GameStop loses $94.7 million in the third quarter and fires digital assets workers. "We deliberately limited cryptocurrency vulnerability," CEO Matt Furlong stated. It appears to be continuing NFT and blockchain initiatives. GameStop will focus on collectibles, gaming, and pre-owned products. He "had a terrific experience taking a deep dive into blockchain and learning about many new topics in the crypto sector".
MicroStrategy Continues to Invest in Digital Assets amid Holding 105,085 BTCs
The leading enterprise analytics platform MicroStrategy released its financial report for the second quarter of 2021 Thursday. The management is satisfied with its strategic investment in digital assets and will continue to deploy funds to invest in its "digital asset strategy."
Coinbase CEO Criticizes Anti-Crypto Stance of American Politicians
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong warns that anti-crypto politicians may face strategic disadvantages in 2024 elections due to growing crypto adoption and the proposed Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act's impact.
Ripple Launches Liquidity Hub to Bridge Crypto and Fiat
Ripple has launched a liquidity solution for businesses to access digital assets, including BTC, ETH, ETC, BCH, and LTC, through various market makers. The Ripple liquidity hub aims to bridge the gap between crypto and fiat, and reduce the cost of operations on high-volume transactions. Notably, XRP is not mentioned in the product launch, which could be attributed to Ripple's ongoing court battle with the SEC.
NFTs can Help Patients Have Significant Control of Personal Health Data: Global Scholars
A global and multidisciplinary team of scholars have released a publication noting that NFTs have the capability of spreading their wings to the healthcare sector by helping patients safeguard their personal health information.
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.
Fidelity Digital Assets to Hire 70% Staffs to Meet Rising Cryptocurrency Demand
Fidelity Digital Assets plans to employ a number of its employees amid increasing demands for crypto assets.
CFTC Committee to Hold Virtual Meeting on Digital Currencies and Blockchain
The CFTC has scheduled a virtual meeting for Thursday, July 16th where its Technical Advisory Committee will discuss matters around on cryptocurrencies and DLT.
Estonia to Strengthen Supervision of Virtual Asset Service Providers
Estonia has recently considered enacting new rules on encryption and proposed draft legislation that will strengthen the supervision of virtual asset service providers.
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.
Biden's Communications Director Restricted From Handling Crypto Firms
President Joe Biden's communications director, Ben LaBolt, will be barred from handling matters related to any cryptocurrency or technology firms he previously represented, but he will be allowed to advise on crypto regulation. LaBolt has disclosed owning $50,001-$100,000 in Bitcoin and $15,001-$50,000 in Ethereum 2. The restrictions are in line with ethics rules followed by senior White House staff.
Crypto-friendly banks closure could pose a challenge for crypto companies
The closure of three major crypto-friendly banks in the US, Signature Bank, Silicon Valley Bank, and Silvergate Bank, could pose a challenge for crypto companies in accessing traditional banking partners. The loss of these banks could impact crypto liquidity, and some experts believe that it may leave crypto companies without banking options. However, some in the industry believe that it could create room for another bank to step up and fill the vacuum, while others suggest that there are already viable alternatives available.
UK Introduces Bill to Classify Crypto and NFTs as Personal Property
The UK has introduced a bill to classify cryptocurrencies and NFTs as personal property, enhancing legal protections for owners and clarifying their legal status.
First Private Bank Joins Turkish Digital Asset Blockchain Network
Garanti BBVA, the second-largest private bank in Turkey with $104 billion of consolidated assets has confirmed that it will be the first and only private bank joining the Turkish Digital Asset Blockchain Network.
NEAR and Polygon Partner to Launch zkWASM
NEAR Foundation and Polygon Labs are collaborating on zkWASM, a zero-knowledge prover for WASM blockchains, to enhance interoperability with Ethereum and improve scalability and decentralization.
French Bank SocGen Obtains Regulatory Approval to Offer Crypto Assets Services
Société Générale now engages in regulated crypto-related business activities.
What’s Different About Cryptocurrencies This Time Around?
Even people who haven’t been paying all that much attention to the markets over the last several months are likely aware that cryptocurrencies are one of, if not the hot investment topic.
Mainstream Adoption of DeFi and DLT Is Coming, It Will Replace Banks, Says US Currency Comptroller
The US acting Comptroller of the Currency disclosed that roles played by banks will soon change due to cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance (DeFi).
FTX's Bankruptcy Plan Leaves Customers Struggling Amid Crypto Market Revival
The contrast between FTX's ongoing bankruptcy proceedings and the broader crypto market's revival underscores the volatility and risks in the cryptocurrency industry.
Hedera (HBAR) and Algorand (ALGO) Form DeRec Alliance for Decentralized Recovery
Hedera and Algorand ecosystems have united to form the DeRec Alliance, introducing a new standard for simplified and secure digital asset recovery, aiming to revolutionize the Web3 experience.
Virginia Proposes Regulatory Framework for Digital Asset Mining and Transactions
Virginia Senate Bill No. 339, introduced by Senator Salim, aims to regulate digital asset mining and transactions, exempting businesses from certain licenses and providing tax benefits for digital asset exchanges.
Thailand Waives Taxes on Investment Tokens
Thailand's cabinet has agreed to waive corporate income tax and VAT for companies issuing investment tokens, encouraging alternative capital raising in addition to conventional methods. The government hopes to generate 128 billion Thai baht from investment token offerings over the next two years.
Will Crypto Assets Have a Future in Russia After All? State Duma Passes DFA Bill
The State Duma of Russia passed a law regarding digital financial assets (DFA) in the financial bill’s third reading, which determined the fate of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
US Government Removes Cryptocurrency AML Provisions from NDAA
The US government has removed two AML provisions relating to cryptocurrencies from the NDAA, indicating a cautious approach to crypto regulation and raising concerns about future AML measures.
The Old World. What is going on with Digital Assets in Europe?
Europe is an enormous market of more than half a billion people. As small amounts up to 8 million euros may be raised without registration of the offering, it is a very attractive market for international projects looking to reach new investors for their security token offering.
Arca Digital Asset Investment Firm Gets Approval from SEC to Tokenize US Treasury Bonds
Los Angeles-based digital asset investment firm Arca has launched trading for its new digitized security investment product that runs on the Ethereum blockchain.
Astar Network Launches Second Iteration of Smart Contracts
Astar Network is launching the second iteration of its smart contracts that support both Ethereum Virtual Machine and WebAssembly Virtual Machine on its mainnet on April 6. The Astar team invited community members to a panel discussion led by its executives and Polkadot developers to discuss how WASM can be utilized.
Bitfinex Securities Launches El Salvador's First Tokenized Debt for Hilton Hotel Development
Bitfinex Securities, the first licensed digital asset provider in El Salvador, is launching its inaugural tokenized asset raise on the Bitcoin layer 2 Liquid Network to fund a new Hilton hotel complex at El Salvador International Airport.
South Korea to Delay 20% Capital Gains Tax on Digital Asset Investments until Jan 2025
Before levying income taxes on virtual assets, South Korean lawmakers have called for the government to prepare for effective implementation of new rules.
Dasset Enters Liquidation: Key Details
Digital Asset Exchange Limited, trading as 'Dasset', has entered liquidation due to"unfavorable market dynamics, increasing regulatory constraints, and uncertainty regarding the legal standing of cryptocurrencies in different jurisdictions.
EBA Opens Consultation on Liquidity Stress Test Guidelines for Crypto Assets
The EBA is requesting input on draft guidelines for liquidity stress tests for crypto assets, aiming to improve market resilience and comply with data protection regulations until February 8, 2024.
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.
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.
MicroStrategy Q3 2023: 158,400 Bitcoin Holdings at $29,586 per BTC
MicroStrategy Incorporated reveals Q3 2023 financial results, highlighting continuous acquisition of bitcoin and AI software launch. The company's bitcoin holdings now stand at 158,400 with a total cost of $4.69 billion. Software Licenses and Subscription Services Revenues observed notable growth, indicating a positive trajectory in its business intelligence domain.
Ernst & Young’s Blockchain Technology to Create NFTs for Award-Winning Italian Film
Big-four accounting and auditing firm Ernst & Young’s blockchain-as-a-service dubbed EY OpsChain will create NFTs for the award-winning Italian film La Leggenda Di Kaspar Hauser.
Web3 Security Losses Skyrocket to $889.26M in Q3 2023, Says Beosin Report
The Q3 2023 Global Web3 Security Report, jointly initiated by Beosin and SUSS NiFT, reveals a concerning escalation in the Web3 security landscape. The report shows that losses from hacks, phishing scams, and rug pulls reached $889.26M in Q3 2023, exceeding the combined losses of the first two quarters. The report also highlights the increasing threat posed by North Korea's Lazarus group.
Bitcoin's Consolidation Continues amid Addresses Holding BTC Scaling the Heights
Bitcoin has consolidated between the $38K and $45K zone for the past two months, as indecisiveness continuously rocks the market, even though BTC addresses continue going through the roof.
Japan Reduces 30% Crypto Tax On Paper Earnings For Token Issuers
To boost the Japanese banking and IT industries, the government would relax crypto company tax restrictions. Even if they haven't sold, Japanese crypto issuers must pay a 30% corporation tax on their holdings. In recent years, some local crypto/blockchain enterprises and personnel have moved abroad.
“Bitcoin Better Investment than Gold," Winklevoss Says to Dave Portnoy Over Talks on Elon Musk’s Plans to Mine Gold in Space
In their interview with Dave Portnoy, Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss advised the "Davey Day Trader" to invest in Bitcoin rather than gold.
Crypto Hacks and Scams on the Rise
Over $103 million was lost to crypto exploits, scams, and hacks in April, with the total loss for the year reaching $429.7 million. Major hacks included Bitrue exchange and South Korean GDAC exchange, and flash loan attacks took around $20 million. Exit scams saw a loss of $9.4 million.
WisdomTree Third-Quarter Crypto Assets’ AUM Drop 36% As Market Losses Continue
WisdomTree has seen its crypto assets under management fall by 36% in what the company said has been triggered by the ongoing market turbulence.
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.
France’s CBDC Projects to Manage DeFi Liquidity, Settle Tokenized Assets
The Bank of France is currently working on its second stage of experimentation in wholesale central bank digital currency (CBDC).
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.
Hong Kong to Propose Statutory Licensing Regime for VASPs: CE John Lee
Hong Kong leader John Lee delivered his first policy address Wednesday, indicating that the administration has introduced a bill to propose establishing a statutory licensing regime for virtual asset service providers.
DOJ Plans to Call Former FTX Consumers, Investors, and Employees as Witnesses in Upcoming Samuel Bankman-Fried Trial
The DOJ is set to call former customers, investors, and employees of FTX as witnesses in the upcoming trial against Samuel Bankman-Fried, with a letter motion on September 30 revealing the scope of testimonies. A witness from Ukraine presents a challenge due to travel constraints amidst local unrest, with video conferencing proposed as a solution. The trial, attracting attention due to its proximity, is poised to kick off following jury selection on October 3.
BOE Governor: Bitcoin and Trending Cryptocurrencies May not be Viable in the Future but Stablecoins Are the Exception
Speaking at the World Economic Forum, the Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey discussed how cryptocurrencies would fit in the current governance system.
Messaging Giant LINE is Developing a Platform for CBDC
Japanese messaging giant Line is developing a platform to aid Asian central banks in their pursuit of central bank digital currencies (CBDC).
Kookmin Bank, South Korea’s Largest Bank Will Offer Cryptocurrency Custody
Kookmin Bank, the largest commercial bank in South Korea, will start offering Bitcoin custody services through a new partnership with crypto trading firm Cumberland Korea and blockchain venture fund Hashed.
At least 70% of Global Finance Leaders Believe CBDCs Will Spur Financial Inclusion - Ripple Study
Central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) have triggered overwhelming consensus among global finance leaders, according to a survey by Ripple, a leader in enterprise crypto and blockchain solutions.
Grayscale Investors Buying Bitcoin at Remarkable Rate Despite Goldman Sachs’ Skepticism
New data indicates that institutional clients are increasingly buying Bitcoin via Grayscale Bitcoin Trust despite warning from Goldman Sachs.
9 in 10 Central Banks are Eyeing CBDCs, BIS Study Shows
90% of apex banks have shown intentions of rolling out central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), according to a study by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).
Non-Zero Bitcoin Addresses Reach Historic Highs, BTC’s On-Chain Settlement Efficiency Goes a Notch Higher
Bitcoin is showcasing itself as one of the most efficient monetary settlement networks, given that it transferred an average of $95,142 for a fee of $1 compared to Ethereum’s $139 in the past week.
Ethereum Performs Better than Bitcoin in Annual Returns with a 663% Gain
Ethereum's annual return stands at 663.7%, performing much stronger compared to Bitcoin’s 195.5%.
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.
US SEC and FINRA Issued Latest Custody Guidance on Digital Assets Securities
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) issued a statement addressing regulatory issues regarding the custody of digital asset securities on 8 July.
Legal Team of Samuel Bankman-Fried Seeks to Question Involvement of FTX Lawyers in $300 Million Loans
Samuel Bankman-Fried's defense team has submitted a letter to U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, seeking permission to question the involvement of FTX lawyers in the issuance of loans worth up to $300 million from Alameda Research to Gary Wang. The request comes after an October 1 court ruling provisionally barred any mention of FTX lawyers' involvement without prior permission. The defense aims to establish Bankman-Fried's good faith and lack of criminal intent in the ongoing money laundering case.
Spanish Tax Agency Cracks Down on Crypto Holders
The Spanish Tax Administration Agency (AEAT) is increasing its efforts to collect taxes on crypto assets, with plans to send out 328,000 warning notices to those who should pay their taxes for the 2022 fiscal year. The AEAT has only recently begun to take the matter seriously, with a 40% increase in the number of notices sent from the previous year.
California Governor Signs Digital Financial Assets Bill, Tightening Crypto Regulations from July 2025
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Digital Financial Assets Law on October 13, 2023, initiating a robust regulatory framework for cryptocurrency activities in the state from July 1, 2025. The law necessitates licensure from the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation for individuals and businesses dealing in digital assets. This regulatory shift, contrasting Newsom’s earlier stance in 2022, aligns with broader national trends towards formalizing digital asset transactions to curb fraud and enhance consumer protection.
Chainalysis Releases Crypto Market Intelligence Site Catered to Asset Managers and Regulators
Blockchain analysis firm Chainalysis released Market Intel, a new website catered to asset managers and regulators for access to live crypto data and insights. Chainalysis’ Market Intel will leverage the firm’s proprietary data, which has been collecting and linking to real-world entities since 2014.
3 Platforms Making DeFi More Inclusive
Decentralized finance (DeFi) is taking the world by storm. Owners of cryptocurrencies can unlock an alternative financial system that offers better rewards than traditional bank accounts and carries more risk. Several trends in the DeFi space are emerging lately, as are the new protocols trying to capitalize on this momentum.
Estonia Revokes 500 Crypto Business Licenses in a Move Against Illegal Money Laundering Activities
Estonian authorities have recently revoked licenses from 500 crypto firms, and consequently tightened market regulations within the crypto sector.
Netherlands’ ING Bank Sells Digital Asset Custody Solution Pyctor to GMEX
GMEX acquired Pyctor from ING to expand its digital assets trading offering services and to fulfil growing demands from banks, asset management firms and other institutions.
Matrixport Partners with Simplex to Allow Buying Crypto Using Credit Card
Matrixport, the Bitmain spin-off and a leading financial service provider for digital assets, today announced a partnership with the leading payment process company Simplex, enabling users to purchase cryptocurrencies using their credit cards directly and securely on Matrixport.
Winklevoss Says Bitcoin Price to Reach $500,000 — Why BTC is Better than Gold and Oil
Tyler Winklevoss advocates that Bitcoin (BTC) is headed towards a markup of $500,000 in price and that it will be the preferred safe-haven asset by investors.
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.
Fidelity Launches a New Commission-Free Crypto Trading Product
Fidelity Investments has launched trading support for Bitcoin and Ethereum at zero commission
Andreessen Horowitz Backed Story Protocol Secures $54M in Funding
Story Protocol, a San Francisco-based startup, raised $54 million in a funding round led by Andreessen Horowitz's a16z crypto. The company aims to redefine the IP landscape with an open infrastructure layer optimized for the internet era.
California Crypto Bill Seeks to Measure the Consumer Impact of Digital Assets
California’s Senate Banking and Financial Institutions Committee has unanimously passed Assembly Bill 2150 which will help define digital assets as well as to measure its potential impact on the state and consumers
George Soros’s Family Office Confirms Trading Bitcoin
The investment firm owned by billionaire investor George Soros is the latest family office to invest in Bitcoin and see cryptocurrencies as a hedge against inflation.
Crime across DeFi Platforms Surged to $10.5B in 2021
Crime has grown at an alarming rate in the decentralized finance (DeFi) industry by hitting $10.5 billion so far this year.
Ethereum’s DeFi Trades Skyrocketed in Q3 2020, but Bitcoin Volume Declined
A quarterly report from eToro indicated that while DeFi sector was bullish in 2020’s third quarter (Q3), Bitcoin trades decreased in contrast.
Worldline and Bitcoin Suisse to Revitalize Swiss Point of Sales with Crypto Usage
Worldline, a top European company in the payments and transactional services industry, has struck a deal with Bitcoin Suisse, a notable Swiss crypto financial services firm, to present crypto payment services to Swiss consumers and merchants both in-web shops and in-store.
A Guide to Minimizing Risk in Crypto Trading
Risk management in crypto trading, shaped by market volatility, involves setting stop-losses, proper position sizing, using take-profit orders, and diversifying assets. Continuous learning is vital.
First Belgian Elected as European Legislator to Accept Salary in Bitcoin
Following in the footsteps of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Brussels MP Christophe De Beukelaer intends to convert his salary to Bitcoin.
BC Technology Group Halts Trading Amid Notifiable Transaction
BC Technology Group Limited halted trading on Hong Kong Stock Exchange due to pending announcement about potential sale of crypto platform OSL, valued at $128 million.
World Economic Forum Paves Way for Global Crypto-Asset Regulation
The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently published a white paper titled "Pathways to the Regulation of Crypto-Assets: A Global Approach," advocating for a collaborative approach towards crypto regulation on a global scale.
Korean Prosecution Investigates Cypto Coin WEMIX Issuer WeMade and Hyperism Simultaneously
The Korean prosecution has simultaneously raided WeMade, the issuer of the cryptocurrency WEMIX, and Hyperism, the asset management company responsible for WEMIX's market making. This incident comes right after South Korea’s parliament passed the Virtual Asset Protection Act, which aims to crack down on illegal illegal trading practices such as market price manipulation and insider trading.
SEC Chair Says Lummis-Gillibrand Bill Could ‘Undermine’ Market Protections
The legislation bill provides a framework that develops clear standards and defines appropriate jurisdictional boundaries.
Venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz voted against a Uniswap proposal
Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) opposed a final plan to instal Uniswap V3 on the BNB Chain utilising the Wormhole bridge.
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.
Europe's Watchdog MONEYVAL Sees Crypto as a Threat to AML
European regulator MONEYVAL has published a report that considered cryptocurrencies a major threat to regulators' efforts to fight money laundering activities.
South Korea May Have to Postpone Crypto Taxation, Lawmaker Declares
A push from one of the South Korean top lawmakers may stir the postponement of the crypto taxation billed to commence on January 1, local media reported.
Crypto Businesses Given the Green Light to Set Up in Dubai’s Free Zone
Following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Dubai Multi-Commodities Centre (DMCC) Free Zone and the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), crypto businesses have been granted the liberty to operate in DMCC once registered licenses are granted.
Tom Emmer's Nonpartisan Amendment to Limit SEC's Enforcement on Digital Assets Passes House
GOP Majority Whip Tom Emmer passed a House amendment restricting SEC's enforcement against digital assets until relevant legislation is enacted, highlighting the push for legislative clarity in cryptocurrency regulation.
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce Confirmed for Second Term By US Senate, Crypto Mom Will Remain Until 2025
The United States Senate has voted in Commissioner Hester Peirce of the Securities and Exchange Commission for a second term that will see her remain with the regulator until 2025.
Mutual Efforts with Europe, U.S. Key for CBDC Issuance: Bank of Japan Governor
Joining hands with the United States and Europe is fundamental when meeting technical issues needed in the issuance of a central bank digital currency (CBDC).
U.S. State Street Bank Joins Digital Asset Space with New Cryptocurrency Division
State Street bank based in Boston wants to bet on digital currencies like Bitcoin. The bank has announced that it is creating a new unit to help clients and investors hold, buy, and sell digital assets.
Nigerian President-elect's Manifesto Includes Blockchain and Crypto Regulations
Nigerian President-elect Bola Tinubu has released a manifesto proposing the implementation of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies in Nigeria's banking and finance sector. The manifesto suggests reforming existing Nigerian Security Exchange Commission regulations to create a more business-friendly framework for regulating digital assets. The proposed regulations would require digital asset companies to register with the SEC and comply with SEC regulations. The release of the manifesto coincides with the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies in Nigeria, with the government hoping that the proposed SEC regulation reforms will attract more investors in the digital and economic sectors and stimulate economic growth.
Upbit Singapore Acquires Preliminary MAS Approval for Major Payment Institution Licence
Upbit Singapore has received an in-principle approval for a Major Payment Institution licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore, a significant step towards establishing a stronger digital asset business in Singapore. This provisional approval will enable Upbit Singapore to continue offering regulated Digital Payment Token services as per the Payment Services Act 2019 while awaiting the full license.
Transforming Asset Management: The Impact of Generative AI
Mohamed El-Erian, a Cambridge economist, highlights the dual impact of generative AI on asset management, predicting job creation and displacement, and emphasizing the need for firms to adapt.
Australia to Continue Treating Cryptos as Assets
According to the Australian government's budget announcement on Tuesday, legislation will be put upon treating digital currencies such as bitcoin as an asset.
US Government to Auction $130 Million in Silk Road Bitcoin
The US government is auctioning over $130 million in Bitcoin seized from the Silk Road case, involving digital assets linked to criminal activities. This significant move reflects the evolving approach to handling cryptocurrencies in law enforcement.
Crypto Hacks in Q1 2023
In Q1 2023, hackers accessed over $320 million through 139 incidents on BNB Chain and losses of $221 million on Ethereum. While significantly lower than Q1 and Q4 2022, the quarter saw hundreds of millions lost, with 60% due to the Euler Finance hack. However, funds were recovered through negotiations with hackers, a trend increasingly common in the industry.
Pantera Capital Plans to Raise $1 Billion for New Fund Offering Exposure to Crypto Assets
Pantera Capital is set to launch Pantera Fund V, a comprehensive fund aiming to raise over $1 billion, offering exposure to various blockchain-based assets.
Russia Finally Showing Signs of Embracing Digital Assets in New Bill
After successfully undergoing test period, tokenization is set to take centre stage with reforms as newly proposed cryptocurrency legislation in Russia received the green lights.
Binance Adds 11 Tokens to PoR Report
Binance cryptocurrency exchange has included 11 more tokens in its proof-of-reserves report, taking the total number of assets in its system to 24, valued at over $63 billion.
French Central Bank Succeeds in CBDC Experiment in the Issuance of a Government Bond
The Banque de France or Bank of France, the central bank of France, has prospered in undertaking an experiment on using a central bank digital currency (CBDC) to issue a French government bond.
Flow Blockchain Proposes Full EVM Equivalence to Enhance Composability and Usability
Flow blockchain unveils proposal for full EVM equivalence, bridging Ethereum dApp ecosystem with Flow’s unique capabilities. The move aims to enhance composability, interoperability, and user experience across the blockchain space.
Hut 8 Secures US$50 Million from Coinbase Credit to Enhance Financial Flexibility and Support Growth Initiatives
Hut 8 Mining Corp., a prominent North American mining pioneer and high-performance computing infrastructure provider, has recently made a significant announcement. The company has secured a credit facility of US$50 million through a partnership with Coinbase Credit
University of Sussex Researchers Say Blatant Market Manipulation is a Disaster to Traditional Safe Havens
The University of Sussex Business School recently published an analysis indicating that widespread market manipulation is a serious problem that regulators should deal with so that to confront false prices and avoid distorting the minds of investors. According to the analysis report, the COVID-19 pandemic has created huge volatility in global financial markets. But as one might expect, prices of safe-haven assets like Bitcoin and gold are not surging, a problem that is caused by large-scale and intense manipulation.
Standard Custody and GSR Form Alliance for Secure Digital Asset Settlement
Standard Custody & Trust Company and GSR Markets Limited have partnered to enhance digital asset transactions security and efficiency through an innovative escrow solution.
Binance Enhances Futures Trading with Multi-Assets Mode Launch
Starting February 9, 2024, Binance introduces an automatic Multi-Assets Mode for new futures accounts, enhancing trading flexibility and efficiency across margin assets.
All Crypto Assets Correlation Meets Greater Than 60% with Bitcoin
The correlation between Bitcoin and other cryptoassets like Ethereum (ETH) and Litecoin (LTC) is above 60%, as acknowledged by Messari Crypto researcher Mira Christianto.
Upbit Announces Dunamu & Partners' Digital Asset Holdings for October 2023
Upbit discloses Dunamu & Partners' #Bitcoin holdings as of October 2023, holding 2,081.84950412 BTC with no sales transactions recorded, aligning with Upbit's transparency principle in digital asset trading.
Genesis Digital Assets Purchases 20,000 Bitcoin Mining Machines from China’s Manufacturer Canaan
American Bitcoin mining firm Genesis Digital Assets is purchasing additional 20,000 units of bitcoin ASIC miners from China’s Bitcoin mining hardware manufacturer Canaan Creative. The purchase will help Genesis to scale up its mining operations.
Crypto.com Denies Allegations of Misleading Trading Practices, Faces Regulatory Scrutiny Over Proprietary Trading Concerns
According to insider sources cited by The Financial Times, Crypto.com, the Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange platform, allegedly operates an in-house trading and market-making team whose primary objective is to generate profits rather than facilitate trading.
Binance.US Refutes SEC's Attempted Asset Freeze, Vows to Defend Itself in Court
In a recent update, Binance.US, the American affiliate of leading cryptocurrency exchange Binance, provided an encouraging development in its ongoing legal dispute with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
FCA Unveils Guidance on Cryptoasset Promotions Compliance
The UK's Financial Conduct Authority has issued a finalised non-handbook guidance on Cryptoasset Financial Promotions, aiming to clarify compliance with new laws and balance consumer protection with innovation for long-term economic growth.
Big Banks' Involvement in Drafting the Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act Raises Concerns
The Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act, backed by big banks and introduced by Senators Marshall and Warren, aims to regulate crypto under strict banking laws.
Bitwise to Launch Two Innovative Ethereum Futures ETFs on October 2
Bitwise Asset Management to launch two first-of-its-kind Ethereum Futures ETFs, AETH and BTOP, on October 2. The ETFs offer exposure to CME Ether futures in a regulated format.
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.
Google Pairs with Coinbase to Spur Web3 Innovations, Offer Crypto Payments for Cloud Services
Google has teamed up with crypto exchange Coinbase to allow some of its clients to pay for cloud services using cryptocurrencies.
India Proposes Effective Ban for All Private Crypto Assets, Except a Few In Forthcoming Bill
Most cryptocurrencies appear to be on their last lap in India. The country is set to propose a ban for most digital assets starting at the end of this month.
eBay Joins the NFT Space, Offering Traders a Seamless Experience
E-commerce giant eBay has entered the non-fungible token (NFT) sector through a strategic partnership with Web3 company OneOf.
DAG Global Seeks to Break New Ground as First UK Bank to Support Crypto Businesses
DAG Global, a UK financial services company, aims to set a precedent by gaining a UK banking license to close the void between banks and crypto businesses. It intends to become the nation’s first bank to support cryptocurrency businesses.
FASB Finalizes New Accounting Standards for Crypto Assets
FASB's new ASU No. 2023-08 mandates fair value measurement for certain crypto assets, enhancing transparency and relevance in financial reporting, effective post-December 2024.
US House Committee Chair Criticizes SEC on Digital Assets
US House Financial Services Committee Chair Patrick McHenry criticized the SEC’s approach to digital assets at an oversight hearing, demanding clear rules for crypto through legislation and pressing SEC Chair Gary Gensler for a definitive answer on whether Ether qualified as a security or a commodity.
Bitcoin’s Scarcity Feature Makes the Crypto an Aspirational Store of Value for Investors, says Fidelity Digital Assets
Fidelity Digital Assets, the crypto arm of investment firm Fidelity Investments found in its new report that many investors consider Bitcoin to be an “aspirational store of value”. The firm believes that the largest cryptocurrency has the properties of a store of value but has yet to be widely adopted.
HK Outlines Regulatory System for Virtual Asset Sector
Measures include a licensing regime for the virtual asset service providers, contemplating the regulation of payment-related stablecoins and providing traditional financial institutions with guidelines on offering virtual asset-related services to clients.
United States CFTC Issues Advisory on Digital Currencies for Futures Commission Merchants
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has released an advisory to futures commission merchants clarifying how to hold digital currencies in segregated accounts.
South Korean Stakeholders Opposes the Proposed "Know-the-Sender" Rule
Some stakeholders are pushing back against the proposed Know-the-Sender (KTS) rule that the South Korean parliament is looking to pass into law.
Swiss regulators consider UBS takeover of Credit Suisse to prevent collapse
Swiss regulators are reportedly considering emergency measures to accelerate the acquisition of Credit Suisse by UBS, Switzerland's largest bank. The Swiss National Bank and the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority believe that the acquisition is the only way to prevent a collapse in confidence in Credit Suisse following a series of financial scandals.
Earn Additional Yield on Your Crypto20 Investment
Invictus Capital continues in their pursuit to provide their community with unique wealth creation opportunities.
South Korea Embraces Blockchain: New Digital Asset Act, K-Culture Tokenization, and More
South Korea passes the Digital Asset Basic Act, Shinhan Financial Group invests in digital asset custody, and K-culture goes blockchain.
Citi to Hire 100 Staff Members for Digit Assets Expansion Drive
Citi Group is looking to fill 100 jobs in its digital assets team. The news comes after the bank recently launched a digital assets group as part of its effort to respond to its customer demands for crypto products.
Tether Appoints Jesse Spiro as Head of Government Affairs Amid Regulatory Challenges
Tether appoints Jesse Spiro as Head of Government Affairs to strengthen regulatory relations amid U.S. scrutiny, leveraging his PayPal and Chainalysis experience.
Dubai Police Releases Free NFTs to Enhance Authority
As part of a campaign to showcase security, innovation, and communication values, the Dubai Police has rolled out a set of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) comprising 150 free digital assets.
Ethereum Recording Massive Retail Storm As Number of Ethereum Addresses Hit Another ATH
The total number of Ethereum addresses holding at least 0.1 ETH surges to a new high, a day after setting the milestone.
Monetary Authority of Singapore Sets Up New Institute of Digital Finance for Boosting Fintech and Digital Asset Research
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has teamed up with the National Research Foundation, and the National University of Singapore to set up a research institute that will develop and support the needs of digital financial services in Asia.
US CFTC Reaches Clarity on Interpretive Guidance on the Physical Delivery of Traded Cryptocurrency
The US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) announced that the Commission has voted unanimously and has clarified the guidance on the question of the physical delivery of digital assets.
Legend of Wuhan Coronavirus Whistleblower Will Live Forever on Ethereum Blockchain
Li Wenliang was an ophthalmologist at Wuhan Central Hospital who became something of a national hero amidst the turmoil of the Coronavirus. Identifying the deadly virus early, he was silenced by his government for trying to warn the public. His legend has only been further galvanized on the Ethereum blockchain following his recent death where he succumbed to the dreaded illness
U.S. Prosecutors Aim to Sideline Asset Recovery Talks in Bankman-Fried Trial
U.S. prosecutors in Samuel Bankman-Fried’s trial have urged the court to disallow any arguments concerning the recovery of misappropriated FTX customer assets invested in AI startup Anthropic. This development arises as Bankman-Fried's investment could now be of higher value, potentially affecting the recovery prospects for FTX customers amidst the ongoing bankruptcy process.
European Asset Manager Believes Bitcoin is Not Doomed Despite Industry Collapse
A European asset manager, Amundi, believes that the ongoing cryptocurrency industry collapse does not mean that digital assets like Bitcoin are doomed to fail. Despite BTC's inability to protect investors from rising inflation, its limited supply may still attract attention if inflation remains high.
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.
Bitwise ETF BITQ Surpasses $100M in Cypto Assets Under Management
Bitwise Asset Management, a leading crypto asset manager, has announced that its Crypto Industry Innovators ETF (NYSE: BITQ) recently surpassed $100 million in assets under management. This milestone comes amid a turning point for the crypto sector, which has seen positive industry developments, strong market performance, and growing investor interest throughout 2023.
DWF Labs Invests $60 Million in EOS Network
DWF Labs, a digital asset market maker, has announced an investment deal worth over $60 million with the EOS Network Foundation. The deal includes a $45 million EOS token purchase agreement and a $15 million pledge to invest in businesses and projects based on EOS. The alliance aims to expedite the expansion and acceptance of the EOS Network, particularly with the launch of its enterprise-grade EOS Ethereum Virtual Machine.
NFT Trading Volume Surpasses $54B, Exceeds 200% in 2022
The NFT market continues to take the world by storm based on the notable adoption and trading volume witnessed.
German Legacy Bank Hauck & Aufhäuser to Debut Crypto Investment Fund in 2021
Germany’s legacy bank with over 222 years of financial services tradition Hauck & Aufhauser will be launching a cryptocurrency fund in January 2021.
Switzerland Parliament Blockchain Act Reform Validates Crypto and Digital Assets
The Swiss parliament has revamped and clarified legislation on blockchain technology and digital currencies activity in the country
Fidelity Institution's President Advocates Room for Consumers to Acquire More Crypto
Fidelity Institutional boss, Michael Durbin is advocating more crypto allocations for consumers
Wyoming State Says Cryptocurrency Represents Property, Allows Insurers to Include Digital Assets in Investment Portfolios
The US. state of Wyoming has enacted new legislation to allow insurance firms to invest in digital assets like cryptocurrencies. The new law intends to come into effect on 1st July.
Exploring the Basel Committee's Draft on Crypto Asset Exposure
The Basel Committee has unveiled a draft document detailing the disclosure requirements for banks' cryptoasset exposures. Standardized templates under a new chapter, DIS55, are introduced to ensure consistency in disclosures. The Committee seeks public and market participants' feedback on the draft until January 31, 2024, with an eye towards implementing the requirements on January 1, 2025.
领先的加密资产管理公司Bitwise宣布其加密行业创新者ETF资产管理规模突破1亿美元
全球领先的加密资产管理公司Bitwise Asset Management宣布，其加密行业创新产品ETF（纽约证券交易所代码：BITQ）最近的资产管理规模超过了1亿美元。这一里程碑出现在加密领域的转折点，整个2023年，这个领域都见证了积极的行业发展，强劲的市场表现，以及投资者兴趣的增长。
WWE Inks Deal with Fanatics to Offer Fans an Enhanced NFT Experience
To render its fans a new experience through non-fungible token (NFT) trading cards, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has signed a deal with digital sports platform Fanatics.
UK Cryptocurrency Exchanges Adapt to Enhanced Regulatory Standards
The UK is intensifying regulatory standards for crypto exchanges under the Financial Services and Markets Act, aiming for parity with traditional financial services. Exchanges must comply with stringent risk assessments and finance tests, impacting both domestic and offshore entities.
Girl Group tripleS Makes a K-Pop Splash With Fan-Curated Album
TripleS, a K-pop girl group with 24 members, has caught attention with its new album “ASSEMBLE”. The eight-track album features the track “Rising”, which was released on February 13th as an EP album.
Crypto Assets Surge with Record $2.9B Inflows, Bitcoin Dominates Market
The latest CoinShares report highlights a record-breaking week with $2.9B inflows into digital assets, positioning Bitcoin as the market leader.
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.
German Sparkasse-Savings Banks to Launch Bitcoin and Ethereum Services
A group of about 370 savings banks in Germany, collectively known as Sparkasse, are working on plans to launch services bothering around Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) as early as the coming year 2022.
Crypto Remain the Most Popular Investment Assets Compared to Gold in Australia: Survey
A recent survey from BTC Markets exchange has revealed that the embrace of crypto like Bitcoin is largely more popular than precious metals such as Gold.
Binance Acquired CoinMarketCap: A Huge Boost to the Binance "Super Exchange" Ecosystem
Binance, one of the largest digital asset exchanges in terms of trading volume and users, has officially announced the acquisition of CoinMarketCap for an undisclosed fee. According to the press release shared with Blockchain.News, the acquisition creates synergies for both companies in boosting cryptoassets adoption to global users.
US Banking System Faces Crypto-Asset Risks, FDIC Warns in 2023 Review
Following a March crisis, major banks serving the US crypto sector faced hurdles. The FDIC intervened, highlighting the growing challenges in the evolving crypto landscape.
BlackRock CEO Highlights Digital Assets and Tokenization
Larry Fink's annual letter to BlackRock highlights the potential of digital assets and tokenization, citing advancements in digital payment solutions for financial inclusion in emerging markets.
Kazakhstan Blocks Coinbase, Citing Digital Asset Law
Kazakhstan's Ministry of Culture and Information has blocked Coinbase due to legal conflicts with digital asset regulations, revisiting previous restrictions on other financial platforms.
Russia’s Central Bank Will Ban Crypto Issuance and Trading in Upcoming “Digital Financial Assets” Bill
Alexey Guznov, head of the legal department at Bank of Russia, says that the new version of the delayed bill on “Digital Financial Assets” will include a ban on issuance and selling of cryptos in the country.
KKR Tokenizing Part of its Private Equity Fund on Avalanche Blockchain
KKR plans to tokenize part of its second Health Care Strategic Growth Fund to expand individual investors’ access to private investment vehicles.
CoinShares Acquires Napoleon Asset Management, Expanding into EU Markets
The deal underscores interesting points about CoinShares. The digital asset firm has bought its rival based in France to double down on European Union expansion.
Galaxy Asset Mgmt Secures FTX Crypto Sale Bid; Weekly Cap Set at $50M
Jeff Dorman, CFA and CIO of Arca, discusses the court-approved sale of FTX's crypto assets by Galaxy Asset Management. The sale is expected to be gradual and opportunistic, with a maximum sale of $50 million per week. Galaxy's goal is to outperform a static portfolio, not converting the estate into a L/S fund. The sales process is expected to be systematic, strategic, and potentially slower than expected.
Ant Group Partners with Dell, Hewlett-Packard and Lenovo to Enable Access for its New Blockchain Solution—AntChain
Ant Group, formerly known as Ant Financial, the payments arm of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba, has launched a new blockchain solution, AntChain. Ant Group has signed an agreement with Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and Lenovo to enable accessibility of IT leasing services for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) through the AntChain blockchain solution.
Alibaba’s Ant Group Set to be 2020’s Top IPOs in Hong Kong and Shanghai
Ant Financial, formerly known as Alipay and known renamed to ‘Ant Group’, has announced its intentions of launching an initial public offering (IPO) that would be featured both on the Shanghai Stock Exchanges' STAR board and the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (HKEX/ SEHK).