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Canary Capital Follows Bitwise in XRP ETF Filing with SEC

Canary Capital has filed for a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), following a similar filing by Bitwise just a week earlier. The proposed ETF aims to provide investors with access to XRP via traditional brokerage accounts without the need to directly manage or hold the cryptocurrency. It …

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Is Nick Szabo Secretly Satoshi Nakamoto? The Debate Heats Up Again

A new HBO documentary, released on October 8, has reignited debate about the true identity of Bitcoin’s mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, with a strong focus on Nick Szabo as a top candidate. Szabo, a cryptographer and computer scientist, developed the concept of “smart contracts” and proposed a digital currency called “Bit Gold” in 1998, a …

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Silk Road Bitcoin Fortune Remains Seized as Supreme Court Rejects Case

The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear an appeal regarding the ownership of 69,370 Bitcoin, worth $4.38 billion, seized from the Silk Road dark web marketplace. Battle Born Investments had claimed ownership of the Bitcoin through a bankruptcy estate but was unable to convince lower courts. With the Supreme Court’s refusal, the U.S. government …

Silk Road Bitcoin Fortune Remains Seized as Supreme Court Rejects Case Read More »

Robinhood Exec Dan Gallagher Touted as Potential SEC Chair Under Trump: Report

Dan Gallagher, Robinhood’s chief legal officer and former SEC commissioner, is seen as a potential pick for SEC chair if Donald Trump wins the 2024 election. Gallagher, who served as an SEC commissioner from 2011 to 2015, is regarded as a “natural choice” by former officials, according to an Oct. 7 report. Trump has vowed …

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ZachXBT Accuses Ansem of Promoting Hundreds of Memecoin Pump-and-Dump Schemes

Blockchain investigator ZachXBT has accused crypto influencer Zion “Ansem” Thomas of promoting “hundreds” of low-market-cap memecoins, which he claims manipulated prices and exploited followers. In an Oct. 5 exchange on X (formerly Twitter), ZachXBT criticized Thomas for pushing Solana-based memecoins without providing real market insights. He linked Thomas’ actions to Murad Mahmudov’s “Memecoin Supercycle” theory …

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Crypto in UAE Just Got Cheaper: No More VAT on Transfers

The UAE has exempted cryptocurrency transfers and conversions from value-added tax (VAT), reinforcing its status as a crypto-friendly hub. Announced by the UAE’s Federal Tax Authority (FTA) on October 2, the VAT exemptions apply retroactively from January 1, 2018. These exemptions also cover services like managing investment funds, offering financial relief to firms in the …

Crypto in UAE Just Got Cheaper: No More VAT on Transfers Read More »

Geopolitical Tensions and U.S. Election Likely to Boost Bitcoin, Gold: JPMorgan

JPMorgan’s recent report suggests that rising geopolitical tensions and the upcoming U.S. presidential election could bolster bitcoin and gold as part of the “debasement trade.” The report highlights that a potential Donald Trump victory could enhance this trend through expansionary fiscal policies and increased tariffs, which may lead to “debt debasement.” This scenario could benefit …

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Filmmaker Behind QAnon Doc Hints at Unmasking Satoshi Nakamoto in New HBO Film

Documentary filmmaker Cullen Hoback, known for his HBO series “Q: Into the Storm,” is turning his focus to another major enigma: the true identity of Bitcoin’s creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. His upcoming project, Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery, investigates Bitcoin’s origins, teasing the possibility of finally unmasking Nakamoto. Produced by HBO, the documentary promises to explore …

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Whale Panic? Ethereum ICO Holder Dumps $47M as Prices Tumble

A major Ethereum investor, who participated in the 2014 ICO, has triggered market turbulence by selling large amounts of Ether (ETH) amid a price decline. Over the past two weeks, this “whale” has offloaded 19,000 ETH worth $47.5 million, following a similar sale of 12,000 ETH in late September. This selling spree coincides with a …

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Crypto’s Toughest Regulator, Gurbir Grewal, Resigns as SEC Enforcement Chief

Gurbir Grewal, the head of the SEC’s enforcement division, will step down on October 11, 2024, after a tenure marked by aggressive regulation, particularly in the cryptocurrency sector. During his leadership, the SEC pursued over 100 enforcement actions, including high-profile cases against major crypto platforms. His departure has led to speculation that the SEC may …

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Kraken to Delist Monero in Europe, Users Given Withdrawal Deadline

Kraken, a major cryptocurrency exchange, announced it will end support for Monero (XMR) in the European Economic Area (EEA) starting October 31, 2024, citing regulatory and compliance requirements. This decision affects trading pairs with the U.S. dollar, euro, Bitcoin (BTC), and Tether (USDT). Users will have until December 31, 2024, to withdraw their Monero holdings, …

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Bitwise Sparks XRP ETF Buzz with New Delaware Filing

Bitwise has filed for an XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) with the State of Delaware, as revealed in a document on the Division of Corporations website. This early-stage filing, confirmed by a Bitwise spokesperson, was incorporated on September 30, 2024, with CSC Delaware Trust Company listed as the registered agent. While significant, the filing does not …

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Ripple Receives Green Light for Crypto Payment Services in UAE

Ripple has secured an in-principle financial services license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), marking a significant milestone in its expansion into the UAE. This development positions Ripple to offer cross-border payment services for both fiat and digital assets within the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC), pending fulfillment of regulatory requirements. Ripple’s CEO, Brad …

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UK Crypto ATM Operator Admits to Fraud and Money Laundering Charges

Olumide Osunkoya, a UK-based crypto ATM operator, has pleaded guilty to charges of fraud and money laundering. He operated at least 11 unregistered crypto ATMs across the UK without the approval of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), processing over £2.6 million in crypto transactions between December 2021 and September 2023. Despite being denied FCA registration …

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Matrixport Acquires Swiss Crypto Finance, Expands in Europe

Matrixport, a Singapore-based cryptocurrency financial services platform, has completed the acquisition of Swiss firm Crypto Finance Asset Management (CFAM). Announced on September 30, the all-cash deal reflects Matrixport’s expanding ambitions in Europe. CFAM, previously part of the Crypto Finance Group (CFG) under Deutsche Börse Group, has been rebranded as Matrixport Asset Management (MAM). The new …

Matrixport Acquires Swiss Crypto Finance, Expands in Europe Read More »

FBI Cracks Major Crypto Fraud, Recovers $6M in Stolen Digital Assets

Authorities have seized over $6 million in cryptocurrency from scammers in Southeast Asia running fraudulent investment schemes targeting U.S. citizens. These scams led to significant financial losses, as victims were misled into believing they were investing in legitimate crypto ventures. The FBI used blockchain analysis to track the stolen funds, which were held in several …

FBI Cracks Major Crypto Fraud, Recovers $6M in Stolen Digital Assets Read More »

Binance Founder Changpeng Zhao Could Be Released Early on Friday

Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao could be released from prison on Friday, ahead of his scheduled release date of September 29 (a Sunday), due to a Federal Bureau of Prisons rule allowing inmates to be released on the preceding weekday if their release date falls on a weekend or holiday. CZ was sentenced to four …

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U.S. Sanctions Russian Crypto Exchanges for Role in Money Laundering

The U.S. government has imposed sanctions on two Russian nationals, Sergey Ivanov and Timur Shakhmametov, and two cryptocurrency exchanges, PM2BTC and Cryptex, for alleged involvement in illicit financial activities. PM2BTC, flagged by the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), is accused of facilitating proceeds from ransomware and other criminal operations. Nearly half of its transactions …

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WazirX Secures Four-Month Moratorium After $234M Hack

Indian cryptocurrency exchange WazirX has been granted a four-month moratorium by a Singapore court following a $234 million hack in July, which affected around 45% of its users’ funds. The court imposed several conditions, such as requiring WazirX to disclose wallet addresses, respond to user queries, and submit its financial records within six weeks. Future …

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PayPal Adds Crypto Buy, Hold, and Sell Options for U.S. Businesses

PayPal has expanded its cryptocurrency offerings to U.S. business account holders, allowing them to buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies directly from their accounts. This move comes after growing demand from business owners who sought the same crypto features available to individual users since 2020. According to Jose Fernandez da Ponte, PayPal’s senior vice president for …

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Hackers Fail! Ether.fi Secures Platform Before User Funds Are Compromised

On September 24, Ether.fi, a decentralized finance (DeFi) staking protocol, thwarted an attempted domain takeover without compromising user funds. The attack targeted their domain registrar, Gandi.net, aiming to exploit the recovery process to gain access to Ether.fi’s account. However, thanks to preemptive security measures and swift action from security partners like Seal911, Doppel, Ethena, and …

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Caroline Ellison Sentenced to Two Years for FTX Fraud, Ordered to Surrender $11 Billion

Caroline Ellison, former CEO of Alameda Research, was sentenced to two years in prison and ordered to forfeit $11 billion for her role in the FTX fraud. Ellison’s cooperation was crucial in the conviction of Sam Bankman-Fried, FTX’s founder and her former boyfriend, who received a 25-year sentence. Ellison testified that Bankman-Fried misled lenders and …

Caroline Ellison Sentenced to Two Years for FTX Fraud, Ordered to Surrender $11 Billion Read More »

Kraken Acquires Dutch Broker BCM to Strengthen European Strategy

Kraken has strengthened its European expansion by acquiring Coin Meester (BCM), one of the Netherlands’ oldest crypto brokerage firms. This move extends Kraken’s footprint in the Dutch market and helps it secure virtual asset service provider (VASP) licenses in both France and Poland. Brian Grahan, Kraken’s managing director for Europe, hailed the acquisition as a …

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21.co Fights Back Against Custody Fears by Adding Chainlink’s Proof of Reserve

21.co, the parent company of 21Shares, announced plans to integrate Chainlink’s Proof of Reserve technology into its 21BTC Bitcoin wrapper on Ethereum and Solana. This move addresses growing concerns over the backing of Bitcoin wrappers, offering cryptographic proof that newly minted tokens are fully backed by reserves. Chainlink’s system will provide automated, real-time audits of …

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Canada Puts Retail CBDC on Hold, Eyes Broader Payment Solutions

The Bank of Canada has shifted its focus from developing a retail central bank digital currency (CBDC) to broader research on the payments system. After several years of studying the feasibility of a digital Canadian dollar, the Bank has “shelved” the idea, citing a lack of immediate public demand. However, it remains open to revisiting …

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Coinbase Legal Officer Clarifies cbBTC Reimbursement Terms

Coinbase’s Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, addressed concerns regarding the terms of Coinbase’s cbBTC, a tokenized Bitcoin backed 1:1 by BTC. A public discussion arose when a user highlighted a clause suggesting Coinbase might not fully reimburse customers for lost Bitcoin, potentially offering only a proportional share of remaining BTC in certain situations. Grewal clarified …

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BingX Suffers $52M Hack, But Promises Full Recovery for Users

Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange BingX has reported losses exceeding $52 million from a suspected hack on September 20, 2024. Initially estimated at $26 million, the loss figure grew after further investigations by blockchain security firm PeckShield and Cyvers Alerts, revealing additional damages across multiple blockchain networks. BingX’s product chief, Vivien Lin, assured users that all losses …

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Terraform Labs to Shut Down After Court Approves Bankruptcy Deal

Terraform Labs, a major player in the crypto industry that collapsed in 2022, has received approval from a U.S. court to wind down its operations as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy plan. The company filed for bankruptcy in January 2024, with liabilities and assets estimated between $100 million and $500 million. Judge Brendan Shannon …

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Bitget Inks ‘Multi-Million Dollar’ Partnership with La Liga

Bitget has signed a multi-million dollar, two-year partnership with La Liga, focusing on markets in Eastern and Southeast Asia, as well as Latin America. This new collaboration offers more flexibility and opportunities for deeper engagements, allowing Bitget to involve stars like Kylian Mbappé in events. The deal comes as Bitget’s existing partnership with Lionel Messi …

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Trump Buys “Crypto Burgers” in NYC Using Bitcoin!

Former U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines by purchasing hamburgers with Bitcoin at Pubkey, a New York City bar that accepts cryptocurrency. This marked the first time a former president has completed a Bitcoin transaction. The event was highlighted on social media and covered on Trump’s platform, Truth Social. Attendees included Bitcoin advocate Anthony Pompliano. …

Trump Buys “Crypto Burgers” in NYC Using Bitcoin! Read More »

1inch Rolls Out Secure Cross-Chain Swaps Powered by Fusion+

Decentralized exchange (DEX) 1inch has launched a new feature, “Fusion+,” enabling users to swap digital assets across different blockchains while maintaining full control of their funds. Fusion+ integrates on-chain and off-chain liquidity, providing protection against maximal extractable value (MEV) attacks, a common DeFi vulnerability. The feature uses atomic swap technology to ensure all-or-nothing transactions, automatically …

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Brian Armstrong Fires Back at ‘Bitcoin IOU’ Rumors Tied to BlackRock

Over the weekend, rumors circulated that Coinbase was issuing Bitcoin IOUs to BlackRock, enabling price manipulation, but these were quickly debunked. Crypto analyst Tyler Durden claimed that Coinbase was allowing BlackRock, which manages the largest spot Bitcoin ETF, to borrow Bitcoin without collateral, potentially leading to market manipulation. His concerns stemmed from Tron founder Justin …

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Trump Skips Mention of Family’s Crypto Platform During Talk, Team Announces WLFI Token

Donald Trump avoided discussing his family’s new crypto platform, World Liberty Financial, during a 45-minute appearance on X. His interview focused more on broad topics, with only a brief mention of crypto. Later in the event, Zak Folkman, a leader of the project, revealed that a governance token, WLFI, would be introduced. These tokens will …

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MicroStrategy Plans $700M Note Issuance for Bitcoin and Debt Redemption

MicroStrategy, a Nasdaq-listed company known for significant Bitcoin investments, plans to issue $700 million in convertible senior notes maturing in 2028. Of this amount, $500 million will be used to redeem earlier notes, while the remaining funds may be allocated for purchasing more Bitcoin. Additionally, initial purchasers can buy up to $105 million more in …

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Simple Hold Turns $87K in ETH Into Nearly $40M After 8 Years

A recent Ethereum (ETH) trader exemplified the success of a buy-and-hold strategy by turning an $87,000 investment in 2016 into nearly $40 million. In February 2016, the investor bought 16,636 ETH at $5.23 per token via ShapeShift. After holding the investment for over eight years, the trader began selling on September 16, starting with 350 …

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$43 Million Vanishes in High-Stakes Ether-Bitcoin Bet Gone Wrong

James Fickel, a leading cryptocurrency investor, has suffered significant losses, with over $43 million lost since January 2024 due to a high-risk trade betting on Ether (ETH) outperforming Bitcoin (BTC). Fickel borrowed $172 million worth of Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) from the decentralized platform Aave and traded it for 56,445 ETH. However, as ETH underperformed against …

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USDT Classified as Property in Landmark UK Court Decision

In a landmark ruling, England’s High Court of Justice has officially recognized Tether’s USDT stablecoin as property under English law, allowing it to be traced and treated as trust property like other assets. This decision follows the UK government’s recent move to clarify the legal classification of cryptocurrencies. The case, initiated by Fabrizio D’Aloia, involved …

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eToro US Shuts Down Most Crypto Trading After $1.5M SEC Settlement

eToro, a popular trading platform, has agreed to halt most cryptocurrency trading in the U.S. as part of a settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC charged eToro with operating an unregistered brokerage and clearing agency for its crypto services. To resolve the charges, eToro will pay a $1.5 million fine …

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Trader Snags $1.5M Ape CryptoPunk for Just 10 ETH—NFT World Reacts

A trader acquired a rare Ape-themed CryptoPunk NFT, worth approximately $1.5 million, for just 10 ETH ($23,000) through a “shotgun buyout” mechanism. The NFT, Punk #2386, was fractionalized in 2020 on the now-defunct Niftex platform, giving 257 people shared ownership. Although the platform shut down, the smart contracts remained active, allowing the trader to set …

Trader Snags $1.5M Ape CryptoPunk for Just 10 ETH—NFT World Reacts Read More »

UK Government Introduces Legislation to Protect Crypto Assets

The UK government has proposed a new Property Bill that seeks to clarify the legal status of digital assets like Bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, and NFTs under UK law. Announced on September 11, this legislation introduces a new legal category for digital assets, treating them as “things” in property law. Labour MP Heidi Alexander highlighted the need …

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Indodax Hit by $22M Hack, Suspends Operations Amid Social Media Concerns

Indodax, a prominent Indonesian crypto exchange, suffered a major security breach, resulting in the theft of over $22 million worth of tokens. The exchange initially paused operations, citing “maintenance,” but suspicious social media activity suggested additional issues. Security researchers revealed that the attack primarily targeted Indodax’s hot wallets, stealing over $14 million in Ether (ETH), …

Indodax Hit by $22M Hack, Suspends Operations Amid Social Media Concerns Read More »

Congress Urged to Address SEC’s Regulatory Moves Against NFTs

The Digital Chamber of Commerce has called on Congress to pass legislation that classifies certain non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as consumer products, thereby exempting them from federal securities laws. This comes after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued a Wells notice to the OpenSea platform, signaling potential enforcement action. The Digital Chamber criticized the …

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Tether, Tron, TRM Labs Team Up to Fight Financial Crime

The T3 Financial Crime Unit (T3 FCU) has been formed by Tron, Tether, and blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs to combat illegal activities involving USDT, a stablecoin issued on the Tron blockchain. A 2023 report by TRM Labs revealed that nearly 45% of illicit cryptocurrency activity occurred on Tron, prompting the initiative. Tron’s founder, Justin …

Tether, Tron, TRM Labs Team Up to Fight Financial Crime Read More »

Americans Lose $5.6 Billion to Crypto Fraud in 2023, FBI Reports

The FBI’s 2023 report on cryptocurrency fraud revealed that Americans lost $5.6 billion to scams involving digital assets, marking a 45% increase from 2022. Despite crypto-related complaints constituting only 10% of total reports to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, they accounted for nearly 50% of financial losses. The most targeted demographic was individuals over …

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Power Giant Tepco Eyes Bitcoin Mining to Capture Wasted Solar Energy

A subsidiary of Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco), Agile Energy X, is testing the use of surplus solar energy to power Bitcoin mining. This initiative aims to reduce the waste of renewable energy, a problem in Japan due to “output control”, where energy production is curtailed to balance supply and demand. Agile Energy X has …

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Tether’s Surprising $100M Move Into Agriculture as Stablecoin Wars Intensify

Tether, the issuer of the largest stablecoin (USDT), has made a $100 million investment to acquire a 9.8% stake in Adecoagro, a Latin American agricultural company. This marks Tether’s first move into the agriculture and food industry, following previous investments in emerging technologies like AI, Bitcoin mining, and digital education. Adecoagro, founded in 2002, is …

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Ripple Co-Founder Joins Corporate Leaders in Endorsing Kamala Harris

Chris Larsen, Ripple co-founder and executive chairman, has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president, joining 87 other corporate leaders. The endorsement was revealed in a letter signed by influential figures, including Box CEO Aaron Levie, Yelp CEO Jeremy Stoppelman, Snap chairman Michael Lynton, and former 21st Century Fox CEO James Murdoch. The letter demonstrates …

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Tech and Crypto Visionary Pavel Durov Finally Speaks Out After Arrest in France

Telegram founder Pavel Durov, recently arrested in France, has spoken out, criticizing the authorities for detaining him despite Telegram having a legal representative in the country. Durov, now restricted to France and required to report to authorities weekly, expressed his surprise and disappointment at the arrest. He pointed out that French officials could have easily …

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Texas Bank Faces Cease and Desist from Fed Due to Crypto Risk Failures

The U.S. Federal Reserve issued a cease and desist order to United Texas Bank on September 4, citing significant risk management deficiencies, particularly regarding cryptocurrency clients. Following a May examination, the Fed found weaknesses in corporate governance and compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). The bank’s handling of foreign …

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Uniswap Labs Fined $175,000 by CFTC Over Illegal Margin Products

Uniswap Labs agreed to pay a $175,000 fine in a settlement with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) over charges related to illegal leveraged and margined commodities transactions. The CFTC accused Uniswap of providing a platform that allowed users to trade tokens with leveraged returns, including bitcoin (BTC) and ether (ETH), without being registered …

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Ex-Mt. Gox CEO to Launch EllipX, a MiCA-Compliant Exchange in Europe

EllipX, a new cryptocurrency exchange founded by former Mt. Gox CEO Mark Karpeles, will launch in Europe this September, initially focusing on European users with plans to expand globally. Based in Poland, EllipX will adhere to the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) and prioritize transparency through regular audits. Karpeles aims to offer a secure …

Ex-Mt. Gox CEO to Launch EllipX, a MiCA-Compliant Exchange in Europe Read More »

Polygon Prepares for POL Token Swap, Replacing MATIC

Polygon, a leading Ethereum layer-2 network, is undergoing a major upgrade, replacing its MATIC token with a new POL token as part of the broader “Polygon 2.0” roadmap. This upgrade, set to activate this Wednesday, introduces greater flexibility in token issuance and marks a significant transition for the network. The swap will be automatic for …

Polygon Prepares for POL Token Swap, Replacing MATIC Read More »

Vega Protocol Plans to Shut Down Chain and Launch New Nebula Token

Vega Protocol, a decentralized trading blockchain, has proposed shutting down its alpha mainnet within the next three months and discontinuing support for its native VEGA token. The proposal, announced on August 30, focuses on shifting efforts towards developing a new project called “Nebula,” a retail decentralized exchange (DEX) built on the Vega protocol with its …

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Binance Exec Fights for Bail as Health Spirals in Nigerian Prison

Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive detained in Nigeria, faces health challenges prompting his legal team to file a new bail motion on September 2, 2024. They argue his deteriorating condition necessitates urgent medical attention, citing delayed and incomplete health records, including missing MRI scans. The Nigerian Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposes the bail, …

Binance Exec Fights for Bail as Health Spirals in Nigerian Prison Read More »

Cardano Successfully Activates Chang Hard Fork, Enabling Decentralized Voting

Cardano has successfully implemented the Chang hard fork, marking a significant upgrade to its governance and smart contract capabilities. The upgrade, launched on September 1, 2024, introduces the “Conway ledger era” and enhances Cardano’s decentralized governance model. Now, any Cardano (ADA) tokenholder can submit and vote on governance proposals, a key part of the ongoing …

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British Columbia Court Orders $1.2M Bitcoin Loan Repayment

The Supreme Court of British Columbia has ordered Daniel Tambosso to repay $1.2 million to Hung Nguyen for a loan of 22 Bitcoin, marking a significant legal acknowledgment of cryptocurrency transactions. The dispute began in September 2021 when Tambosso borrowed 18 BTC from Nguyen, later requesting an additional 4 BTC. Despite the failure of Tambosso’s …

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Binance Confirms Support for Cardano’s September 1 Network Upgrade

Binance has announced its support for Cardano’s Chang hard fork, a critical upgrade marking the start of the Voltaire era, which emphasizes decentralized governance. Originally scheduled for August 27, the upgrade has been postponed to September 1 to allow more preparation time for platforms like Binance. To avoid potential technical issues, Binance will temporarily suspend …

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Former FTX Executive Ryan Salame Withdraws Plea Motion, References Partner’s Charges

Ryan Salame, former co-CEO of FTX Digital Markets, has withdrawn his petition to overturn his guilty plea related to campaign finance and money-transmitting violations. In an August 29 filing, Salame’s legal team indicated that his decision was influenced by his partner, Michelle Bond’s, ongoing legal case, where the issues might be addressed. Bond, also facing …

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Telegram Faces Ban in Indonesia for Alleged Moderation Failures

Indonesia is considering banning Telegram due to its failure to effectively moderate illicit content, including online gambling and pornography, despite repeated requests from the government. Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, expressed concern over Telegram’s inadequate response, stating that he supports blocking the platform if evidence of illegal content continues to surface. …

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Pavel Durov, Telegram Founder, Released But Faces Criminal Charges and Travel Ban in France

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024, and subsequently charged with multiple criminal offenses. These charges, brought by French prosecutors, relate to his leadership of Telegram and include complicity in illegal activities, money laundering, and failure to cooperate with authorities. Durov was released from custody after posting a …

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South Korean Crypto CEO Stabbed During Haru Invest Fraud Trial

In a shocking incident in Seoul, South Korea, Hugo Hyungsoo Lee, CEO of Haru Invest, was stabbed multiple times during a courtroom trial related to a massive fraud case. The attacker, a victim of Haru Invest’s collapse, targeted Lee as the company faces allegations of misappropriating $826 million in digital assets from around 16,000 investors. …

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TON Society Appeals to France for Immediate Release of Telegram’s Pavel Durov

French President Emmanuel Macron is facing criticism from tech leaders following the detention of Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov in France. The Open Network (TON) Society has issued an open letter demanding Durov’s release, condemning his arrest as a violation of free speech. The letter appeals to international bodies, including the United Nations and the European …

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Celsius Distributes $2.5B to Creditors, But 121,000 Still Unclaimed

Celsius, a bankrupt crypto lender, has successfully repaid two-thirds of its eligible customers, distributing approximately $2.53 billion to 251,000 creditors. This marks 84% of the $3 billion owed to over 375,000 creditors. However, over 121,000 creditors have yet to claim their funds, with many deterred by small claims—64,000 are owed less than $100, and 41,000 …

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Telegram Founder’s Arrest Wasn’t Politically Driven, Says French President Macron

Telegram founder Pavel Durov was arrested on August 24 at Le Bourget airport in France. French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the arrest on August 26, denying any political motive and clarifying that it was part of an ongoing judicial investigation. Macron’s statement aimed to dispel rumors about free speech violations. Durov, who had arrived from …

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Shiba Inu Announces DAO to Give Holders Voting Power

The Shiba Inu team is set to launch a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO), empowering SHIB holders to vote on future initiatives and influence the project’s direction. Announced by the marketing lead “Lucie” on August 25, the DAO will feature two main councils: the “Charity Council” and the “Culture & Heritage Council,” guiding charitable activities and …

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Crypto World Stunned as Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Arrested in France

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was arrested in France on multiple serious charges, including terrorism, trafficking, conspiracy, fraud, and money laundering. Durov was detained at Le Bourget Airport near Paris upon arrival from Azerbaijan, with the arrest warrant reportedly only enforceable on French soil. This has led to a sharp decline in the value of the …

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Global Hunt Ends: Crypto Scam Leader Extradited to China

Zhang Moumou, the leader of the notorious MBI Group, was extradited to China from Thailand after a global manhunt, marking a significant achievement in China’s fight against economic crime. Zhang masterminded a massive crypto pyramid scheme, enticing over 10 million victims since 2012 with promises of high returns on digital currency investments. The scheme collected …

Global Hunt Ends: Crypto Scam Leader Extradited to China Read More »

Ex-Congressional Candidate Michelle Bond Indicted for Illegal FTX Donations

Michelle Bond, a former SEC lawyer and prominent crypto advocate, has been indicted on charges of accepting illegal campaign contributions during her 2022 congressional campaign. The indictment alleges that Bond received substantial financial support from her then-boyfriend, Ryan Salame, a former FTX executive, in violation of election rules that require self-funded candidates to use their …

Ex-Congressional Candidate Michelle Bond Indicted for Illegal FTX Donations Read More »

Trader Turns $1K into $750K with Tron Memecoin SunWukong, Holds for More

An anonymous trader on the Tron network transformed a $1,000 investment into $750,000 by trading SunWukong (SUNWUKONG), a newly launched Tron-based memecoin. This significant gain was fueled by Tron founder Justin Sun updating his profile picture to Sun Wukong, a character from the game Black Myth: Wukong, which quickly became a sensation on its August …

Trader Turns $1K into $750K with Tron Memecoin SunWukong, Holds for More Read More »

Kamala Harris Signals Support for Crypto Industry Growth

Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has expressed support for policies that would promote the growth of the cryptocurrency industry, signaling a potentially friendlier stance toward digital assets compared to the current Biden administration. During a Bloomberg roundtable at the Democratic National Convention, Harris’ senior policy advisor, Brian Nelson, highlighted her intention to back initiatives that …

Kamala Harris Signals Support for Crypto Industry Growth Read More »

Tether Joins Forces with UAE Giants for Dirham-Pegged Stablecoin Launch

Tether, the leading stablecoin issuer, has announced the launch of a new stablecoin backed by the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED), in partnership with UAE-based Phoenix Group and Green Acorn Investments. This initiative aims to create a fully backed digital version of the Dirham, adhering to Tether’s transparent reserve standards. The stablecoin is designed to …

Tether Joins Forces with UAE Giants for Dirham-Pegged Stablecoin Launch Read More »

Base Smashes 4M Active Addresses Milestone in ‘Onchain Summer’

Coinbase’s layer-2 solution, Base, recently surpassed 4 million active addresses, driven by its successful “Onchain Summer” campaign. This event, first launched in 2023, aims to boost adoption by incentivizing developers and engaging users. The 2023 campaign saw 268,000 wallets mint over 700,000 NFTs and facilitated $242 million in crypto transfers. Due to its success, Base …

Base Smashes 4M Active Addresses Milestone in ‘Onchain Summer’ Read More »

CryptoPunk #5822 Sold Quietly, Raising Questions About Possible Loss

The most expensive CryptoPunk NFT, #5822, originally purchased by Deepak Thapliyal for 8,000 ETH ($23.7 million) in 2022, was recently transferred to an unidentified wallet for an undisclosed amount, sparking speculation that it may have been sold at a loss. The NFT market has seen a significant decline, with a 45% drop in sales volume …

CryptoPunk #5822 Sold Quietly, Raising Questions About Possible Loss Read More »

Cardano (ADA) Drops from Top 10 as Tron Gains Market Share

Cardano (ADA) has fallen out of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, now ranking 11th, overtaken by Tron (TRX). Cardano’s market cap stands at $11.89 billion, while Tron’s is $12.04 billion. This drop reflects broader market trends, including Bitcoin’s 11% decline over the past month. Cardano’s decline is attributed to market correction, investor sentiment, …

Cardano (ADA) Drops from Top 10 as Tron Gains Market Share Read More »

Shaquille O’Neal to Defend Claims in Astrals NFT Securities Lawsuit

Shaquille O’Neal faces a class action lawsuit over his role in promoting the Astrals NFT project. While a U.S. court dismissed claims that O’Neal had control over the project, it upheld allegations that Astrals sold unregistered securities. The lawsuit accuses O’Neal of encouraging investment in Astrals, a collection of 10,000 NFTs with a governance token …

Shaquille O’Neal to Defend Claims in Astrals NFT Securities Lawsuit Read More »

First-Ever Tokenized Church? Colorado Group Turns $2.5M Chapel into Digital Asset

The Colorado House of Prayer, led by Pastor Blake Bush, is attempting to purchase the “Old Stone Church,” a property valued at $2.5 million, by tokenizing it on the blockchain. Inspired by a spiritual experience, Bush launched “Stone Coin,” a digital asset on the Polymesh blockchain, to fund the purchase. The tokenization allows the building …

First-Ever Tokenized Church? Colorado Group Turns $2.5M Chapel into Digital Asset Read More »

Donald Trump Discloses Ether Holdings and $7M in NFT Earnings

Former President Donald Trump holds between $1 million and $5 million in Ether (ETH), as revealed in recent election disclosures. While the exact amount isn’t specified, Arkham Intelligence estimates his holdings at around $3.6 million. In addition to his crypto assets, Trump earned $7.15 million from a licensing agreement with NFT INT, while Melania Trump …

Donald Trump Discloses Ether Holdings and $7M in NFT Earnings Read More »

WazirX Initiates Maintenance to Recover User Funds After $234M Hack

Indian cryptocurrency exchange WazirX is conducting scheduled maintenance on August 15-16 to restore account balances and reverse certain trades after a $234.9 million hack on July 18. The breach, identified by Web3 security firm Cyvers, involved suspicious transactions from WazirX’s Safe Multisig wallet on Ethereum. The exchange’s efforts to recover and secure assets are crucial …

WazirX Initiates Maintenance to Recover User Funds After $234M Hack Read More »

Binance Clears $2.2 Million Fine, Registers with India’s FIU

Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, has registered with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-IND), allowing its platform to operate legally in the country. This comes after Binance paid a $2.2 million fine for operating without proper authorization, a penalty linked to India’s Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The registration process began in May 2024, …

Binance Clears $2.2 Million Fine, Registers with India’s FIU Read More »

MetaMask and Mastercard Roll Out Self-Custody Debit Card for UK and EU Users

MetaMask, in collaboration with Mastercard and Baanx, has launched a pilot program for a self-custody debit card in Europe, starting with select users in the UK and EU. This card allows users to retain control of their digital assets until they are converted to fiat currency at the point of transaction. By using the Linea …

MetaMask and Mastercard Roll Out Self-Custody Debit Card for UK and EU Users Read More »

Goldman Sachs Confirms $400M+ Position in Bitcoin ETFs

Goldman Sachs has disclosed holdings of over $400 million in Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in its recent 13F filing. The bank invested in seven out of 11 available Bitcoin ETFs in the U.S., with its largest stake in the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) at $238.6 million, followed by $79.5 million in Fidelity’s Bitcoin ETF (FBTC). …

Goldman Sachs Confirms $400M+ Position in Bitcoin ETFs Read More »

FBI’s Evasive Response Sparks New Theories on Satoshi Nakamoto

The FBI recently issued a “Glomar response” to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request regarding Bitcoin’s mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. This response neither confirmed nor denied the existence of any records on Nakamoto but implied that the agency considers Nakamoto an individual. Investigative journalist Dave Troy, who submitted the FOIA request, shared this cryptic …

FBI’s Evasive Response Sparks New Theories on Satoshi Nakamoto Read More »

Canadian Crypto Exchange Scandal: $9.5M in User Funds Misused for Gambling

The British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC) has exposed a significant fraud case involving the Canadian crypto exchange ezBtc and its founder, David Smillie. Smillie allegedly misappropriated around $9.5 million from customer accounts, using the funds for personal gambling and other unauthorized activities. The BCSC found that ezBtc falsely claimed to store customer funds securely in …

Canadian Crypto Exchange Scandal: $9.5M in User Funds Misused for Gambling Read More »

SEC Files Charges in $650M NovaTech Crypto Pyramid Scheme

The SEC has charged NovaTech, its founders Cynthia and Eddy Petion, and other promoters in a lawsuit, accusing them of running a $650 million cryptocurrency pyramid scheme. The scheme allegedly defrauded over 200,000 investors, many from Haitian-American communities, by promising 2-3% weekly returns on investments in cryptocurrency and forex markets. However, the SEC claims that …

SEC Files Charges in $650M NovaTech Crypto Pyramid Scheme Read More »

Tether Fights Back as Celsius Seeks $3.3 Billion in Bitcoin

Tether is contesting a $3.3 billion lawsuit filed by the bankrupt crypto lender Celsius, which accuses Tether of fraudulently securing its position in a loan agreement. Celsius is seeking the return of 57,428.64 Bitcoin or its equivalent value, claiming Tether made “preferential and fraudulent transfers” during the 2022 market crash. Tether argues the lawsuit is …

Tether Fights Back as Celsius Seeks $3.3 Billion in Bitcoin Read More »

Celsius Sues Tether for $3.5B, Citing Mishandled Bitcoin Collateral

Celsius, a defunct cryptocurrency exchange, has filed a lawsuit against Tether, accusing the stablecoin issuer of misappropriating Bitcoin collateral and seeking nearly $3.5 billion in damages and returns. The dispute involves 57,428.64 BTC, which Celsius claims it is entitled to recover, while Tether argues the amount is closer to $2.4 billion. The lawsuit stems from …

Celsius Sues Tether for $3.5B, Citing Mishandled Bitcoin Collateral Read More »

Trump-Linked Crypto Implodes 95% After Eric Trump Denies Involvement

The cryptocurrency Restore the Republic (RTR), themed around Donald Trump, experienced a massive 95% decline in value after Eric Trump publicly disavowed any connection between the Trump family and the token. Initially, RTR’s value surged to $0.1490 after a misleading endorsement from Ryan Fournier, head of Students for Trump, suggested it was an official Trump …

Trump-Linked Crypto Implodes 95% After Eric Trump Denies Involvement Read More »

Russia Legalizes Crypto Mining Amid Search for New Trade Solutions

In response to US sanctions and being blocked from the SWIFT interbank messaging system, Russia is exploring alternative methods for international trade settlements. President Vladimir Putin has approved a law to reduce reliance on the US dollar, which will take effect in November 2024. The new legislation allows approved firms to mine cryptocurrencies and introduces …

Russia Legalizes Crypto Mining Amid Search for New Trade Solutions Read More »

Brazil’s SEC Approves Solana ETF, Eyes B3 for Final Green Light

The Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) has approved the first Solana-based exchange-traded fund (ETF) in Brazil. This ETF, still in its pre-operational phase and pending approval from the Brazilian stock exchange (B3), will track the CME CF Solana Dollar Reference Rate. QR Asset, a Brazilian asset manager, will offer the ETF, with Vortx managing …

Brazil’s SEC Approves Solana ETF, Eyes B3 for Final Green Light Read More »

Ripple Scores Major Win, Cuts SEC Penalty to $125M

A federal judge has ordered Ripple Labs to pay a $125 million civil penalty in an ongoing SEC case alleging that the blockchain firm used XRP as an unregistered security. The judgment, issued by Judge Analisa Torres, found Ripple liable for 1,278 transactions violating Section 5 of U.S. securities laws. The court restrained Ripple from …

Ripple Scores Major Win, Cuts SEC Penalty to $125M Read More »

Major $1.8M Hack on Nexera Sends NXRA Tumbling 40%

Nexera, a blockchain infrastructure protocol specializing in tokenization, suffered a $1.8 million exploit, as reported by crypto security firm Cyvers. The company, formerly known as AllianceBlock, announced it is investigating the breach. Following the incident, Nexera paused the NXRA token contract and halted trading on decentralized exchanges, also coordinating with centralized exchanges to suspend trading. The …

Major $1.8M Hack on Nexera Sends NXRA Tumbling 40% Read More »

Bitcoin is a Poor Market Hedge, Says ‘Black Swan’ Author Taleb

Nassim Nicholas Taleb, author of The Black Swan, argued on CNBC’s Squawk Box that Bitcoin’s sharp decline on August 5th demonstrates its failure as a hedge against market crashes. On that day, the entire cryptocurrency market lost $510 billion in market capitalization, with over 60% of the top 50 cryptocurrencies erasing their 2024 gains. Bitcoin’s …

Bitcoin is a Poor Market Hedge, Says ‘Black Swan’ Author Taleb Read More »

Ronin Network Hit by $9.8M ETH Hack, White Hat Likely Involved

Ronin Network has experienced a significant exploit, losing 3,996 Ether tokens valued at $9.8 million. The incident, part of a troubling rise in cryptocurrency hacks in 2024, might involve a white hat hacker. According to PeckShield, such ethical hackers identify vulnerabilities and return stolen funds after demonstrating security flaws. The exploit was carried out by …

Ronin Network Hit by $9.8M ETH Hack, White Hat Likely Involved Read More »

Justin Sun Denies HTX Liquidation Amid Crypto Market Slump

Over the weekend, the crypto market experienced significant turmoil, resulting in the liquidation of over $1 billion in futures positions due to escalating fears of a looming recession. Despite the market downturn, Tron and Huobi (HTX) founder Justin Sun dismissed rumors that HTX’s leveraged futures positions were liquidated. Sun asserted that HTX rarely engages in …

Justin Sun Denies HTX Liquidation Amid Crypto Market Slump Read More »

Major Crypto Scam Hits 2,000 Australian Wallets: Federal Investigation Launched

Chainalysis’ Operation Spincaster uncovered that over 2,000 Australian-owned crypto wallets were targeted by “approval phishing” scams, prompting an investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP). These scams deceive users into authorizing malicious transactions, allowing scammers to steal their tokens. Victims have lost approximately $4 billion since May 2021. The AFP, in collaboration with Chainalysis, is …

Major Crypto Scam Hits 2,000 Australian Wallets: Federal Investigation Launched Read More »

Amber Group Demands Transparency Amid ZKX Shutdown Fallout

The unexpected closure of ZKX, a social derivatives trading platform on Starknet, has highlighted the necessity for transparency in cryptocurrency projects. Amber Group, a key market maker and asset management firm, underscored this need after ZKX shut down on July 31 due to economic challenges. Amber Group, which supported ZKX’s market operations by receiving a …

Amber Group Demands Transparency Amid ZKX Shutdown Fallout Read More »

Coinbase Defends $25 Million PAC Donation Amid Legal Accusations

Coinbase’s chief legal officer, Paul Grewal, denied allegations that the crypto exchange violated campaign finance laws with a $25 million donation to a super political action committee (PAC). Crypto skeptic Molly White accused Coinbase of making the donation while negotiating a federal contract, which would be illegal. Grewal responded, stating Coinbase is not a federal …

Coinbase Defends $25 Million PAC Donation Amid Legal Accusations Read More »

ByBit Ceases Operations in France Amid AMF Dispute

ByBit, a popular cryptocurrency exchange, announced it will halt operations in France and restrict account features for French users starting August 2, 2024, due to recent regulatory developments by the French financial regulator, Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF). French users’ accounts will be limited to a “close-only” configuration, preventing new positions and deposits. Any open …

ByBit Ceases Operations in France Amid AMF Dispute Read More »

OKX Ventures and Aptos Foundation Launch $10M Ankaa Accelerator Fund

The venture arm of cryptocurrency exchange OKX and the Aptos Foundation have launched a $10 million fund, named Ankaa, to support the growth of the Aptos ecosystem and promote broader Web3 adoption. Managed by Aptos, OKX Ventures, and Alcove, the fund will focus on projects in decentralized finance (DeFi), real-world assets (RWA), gaming, social media, …

OKX Ventures and Aptos Foundation Launch $10M Ankaa Accelerator Fund Read More »

Tether Now Holds More US Treasurys Than Most Governments

Tether announced record-breaking profits of $5.2 billion in the first half of 2024 and a significant stockpile of US government bonds valued at $97.6 billion, placing its Treasury reserve ahead of all but 17 global governments. Tether’s USDT stablecoin, backed 1:1 with liquid US dollar-denominated assets, has a market capitalization of around $114 billion. Tether’s …

Tether Now Holds More US Treasurys Than Most Governments Read More »

Direct Crypto Trading with Dirhams Now Available in UAE!

Crypto exchange M2 has enabled residents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to buy and sell Bitcoin and Ether directly using their bank accounts. This integration allows for the conversion of UAE dirhams into Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) through M2’s spot markets, simplifying the trading and deposit/withdrawal process. Stefan Kimmel, CEO of M2, emphasized …

Direct Crypto Trading with Dirhams Now Available in UAE! Read More »

SEC Files Fraud Charges Against BitClout’s Nader Al-Naji

On July 30, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York charged BitClout founder Nader Al-Naji with fraud. The SEC alleged that Al-Naji sold $257 million in unregistered securities through BitClout’s token, BTCLT, and misused $7 million of these funds on luxury goods and …

SEC Files Fraud Charges Against BitClout’s Nader Al-Naji Read More »

Brutal Bitcoin Heist in Kyiv: Foreign National Forced to Transfer BTC, Murdered

Police in Kyiv, Ukraine, have detained four men, aged 24 to 29, for the alleged kidnapping and murder of a 29-year-old foreign national Bitcoiner. The suspects are accused of premeditating the attack, forcing the victim to transfer approximately $170,000 worth of Bitcoin, and then killing him. The crime occurred around midnight on July 29, and …

Brutal Bitcoin Heist in Kyiv: Foreign National Forced to Transfer BTC, Murdered Read More »

One Trading Secures EU’s First Cash-Settled Perpetuals License

One Trading has secured an Organized Trading Facility (OTF) license from the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM), allowing it to operate as a regulated crypto derivatives exchange in Europe. This license establishes One Trading, previously known as Bitpanda Pro, as a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MIFID) II trading venue, making it the …

One Trading Secures EU’s First Cash-Settled Perpetuals License Read More »

Crypto Scam Alert: BlackRock Cautions Investors About iShares Bitcoin and Ether ETF Fraud

BlackRock, a leading asset management firm, has issued a warning about a rise in crypto scams targeting investors of its iShares spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs. These scams involve impersonators on social media platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram, offering training or investments. BlackRock emphasized that it never contacts users via social media to demand payments …

Crypto Scam Alert: BlackRock Cautions Investors About iShares Bitcoin and Ether ETF Fraud Read More »

Trump Backs Bitcoin Reserve, Claims Democrat Victory Will Doom Crypto

Thousands of bitcoin enthusiasts gathered in Nashville for the Bitcoin Conference, where former President Donald Trump delivered a speech solidifying his support within the crypto community. Trump pledged to create a “strategic national bitcoin reserve” and promised not to sell the government’s seized bitcoin. He emphasized the importance of mining and minting bitcoin in the …

Trump Backs Bitcoin Reserve, Claims Democrat Victory Will Doom Crypto Read More »

BlackRock Doubts Popularity of Crypto ETFs Outside Bitcoin and Ethereum

BlackRock anticipates limited interest in crypto ETFs beyond Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), according to Robert Mitchnick, BlackRock’s head of digital assets. Speaking at the Bitcoin 2024 conference, Mitchnick noted that client demand is overwhelmingly focused on BTC and, to a lesser extent, ETH. Consequently, BlackRock does not foresee a proliferation of crypto ETFs beyond …

BlackRock Doubts Popularity of Crypto ETFs Outside Bitcoin and Ethereum Read More »

VanEck Predicts Bitcoin Could Reach $2.9 Million by 2050

Investment manager VanEck predicts that Bitcoin’s market capitalization could reach $61 trillion by 2050, equating to around $2.9 million per coin. This projection is based on Bitcoin’s potential use as collateral for trade settlements and a reserve asset for central banks. The report suggests Bitcoin could handle 10% of global international trade and 5% of …

VanEck Predicts Bitcoin Could Reach $2.9 Million by 2050 Read More »

Revolut Finally Achieves UK Banking License After Three Years

Revolut, a London-based fintech company, secured a UK banking license after a protracted three-year regulatory process, marking a major milestone in its expansion. The UK’s Prudential Regulation Authority granted the license with certain restrictions, allowing Revolut to gradually build its banking operations before a full-scale launch. CEO Nik Storonsky expressed pride in this achievement, aiming …

Revolut Finally Achieves UK Banking License After Three Years Read More »

Polymarket Expands Payment Options with MoonPay Partnership

Polymarket, a crypto predictions platform, has teamed up with MoonPay to enhance payment options amid a surge in betting driven by the U.S. presidential election. As of July 24, users can now buy crypto on Polymarket using debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, bank transfers, and PayPal. MoonPay’s Web3 marketing agency, Otherlife, will …

Polymarket Expands Payment Options with MoonPay Partnership Read More »

Mt. Gox’s $335M Bitcoin Transfer Sparks Speculation

Mt. Gox, the defunct cryptocurrency exchange, transferred $335 million in Bitcoin on July 24, distributing 5,106 BTC to Bitstamp and an unknown address. This action aligns with their repayment plan announced earlier this month. Data from Arkham Intelligence showed two transfers at 6:16 am UTC: 2,237 BTC to Bitstamp and 2,869 BTC to an unknown …

Mt. Gox’s $335M Bitcoin Transfer Sparks Speculation Read More »

Spot Ethereum ETFs Hit Over $1 Billion Trading Volume on First Day!

United States-listed spot Ethereum ETFs debuted with over $1 billion in trading volume, representing about 23% of the volume seen by spot Bitcoin ETFs on their launch day. The leading funds were Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETHE) and BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA), trading $458 million and $248.7 million, respectively. Fidelity Ethereum Fund (FETH) and Bitwise …

Spot Ethereum ETFs Hit Over $1 Billion Trading Volume on First Day! Read More »

Gate.io Halts Operations in Japan Due to Compliance Requests

Gate.io, a cryptocurrency exchange, will cease services for Japanese customers due to compliance requests from Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA). Announced on July 22, the exchange will stop opening new accounts for Japanese users and assist in migrating their assets to compliant exchanges. Gate.io will also remove Japanese language content from its website but continue …

Gate.io Halts Operations in Japan Due to Compliance Requests Read More »

Ethereum ETFs Gain Final Approval from SEC

U.S. regulators have approved spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) holding Ethereum’s ether (ETH), allowing trading to begin as early as Tuesday. This approval, following a lengthy SEC review, mirrors the successful launch of bitcoin (BTC) ETFs in January, which attracted substantial investments. The ether ETFs are expected to make Ethereum more accessible to traditional investors via …

Ethereum ETFs Gain Final Approval from SEC Read More »

Biden’s Withdrawal Causes $67M in Crypto Liquidations

President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election race triggered significant market volatility, resulting in nearly $67 million in liquidations of leveraged long positions in the cryptocurrency market within 30 minutes. The news caused Bitcoin to drop by 2.3% to $65,880 before quickly rebounding to a 24-hour high of $68,480, leading to $34 million …

Biden’s Withdrawal Causes $67M in Crypto Liquidations Read More »

With Biden Out, Polymarket Favors Harris for 2024 Nomination

President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor for the Democratic nomination. This decision, made public on Sunday, was influenced by internal party dissent and a poor debate performance in June. Following Biden’s announcement, meme coins associated with his campaign plummeted, while those linked …

With Biden Out, Polymarket Favors Harris for 2024 Nomination Read More »

Kraken Rolls Out Custody Services for Institutions in UK and Australia

Kraken, a cryptocurrency exchange, has launched its Kraken Custody services for institutional clients in the UK and Australia. This expansion is Kraken Custody’s first international move after its US launch earlier this year. The service aims to provide secure storage, management, and scaling solutions for institutional clients’ digital assets. Tim Ogilvie, Kraken’s global head of …

Kraken Rolls Out Custody Services for Institutions in UK and Australia Read More »

BtcTurk Announces CEO Change After Seven Years

Ozgur Guneri, CEO of Turkish cryptocurrency exchange BtcTurk, has stepped down after seven years in the role but will remain on the company’s board of directors. BtcTurk founder Kerem Tibuk will succeed him as CEO. This leadership change aligns with BtcTurk’s expansion plans into Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, and Latin America. Cryptocurrencies have become increasingly …

BtcTurk Announces CEO Change After Seven Years Read More »

Indian Crypto Exchange WazirX Faces $235M Security Breach

Indian cryptocurrency exchange WazirX has suffered a major security breach, losing approximately $235 million from its Safe Multisig wallet on Ethereum. The breach involved multiple suspicious transactions detected by Web3 security firm Cyvers. The funds were moved to a new address and converted into Ether. The suspected attacker’s primary address still holds over $210 million …

Indian Crypto Exchange WazirX Faces $235M Security Breach Read More »

OKX Exchange Ceases Nigerian Operations Over Regulatory Shifts

OKX has announced its exit from Nigeria, halting services for all Nigerian customers due to recent changes in local laws and regulations. Nigerian users have until August 16, 2024, to access platform features, after which they can only withdraw funds or close positions. This move follows regulatory challenges in Nigeria, including the Nigerian government’s earlier …

OKX Exchange Ceases Nigerian Operations Over Regulatory Shifts Read More »

U.S. Senator Who Called Bitcoin a Criminal Tool Faces Bribery Conviction

Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) was found guilty on July 16 of accepting bribes, including gold bars and a luxury car, in exchange for political influence, making him the first sitting member of Congress convicted of acting as a foreign agent. Menendez, a long-time crypto critic, had labeled Bitcoin as “an ideal choice for criminals.” The …

U.S. Senator Who Called Bitcoin a Criminal Tool Faces Bribery Conviction Read More »

Mt. Gox Funds Arrive at Kraken, Distribution Set to Begin

Kraken has notified users that Mt. Gox reimbursement funds have been received and will be distributed within seven to 14 days. Arkham Intelligence reported a transfer of 48,641 Bitcoin, valued at $3.1 billion, from a Mt. Gox trustee wallet, believed to be associated with Kraken. Recently, Mt. Gox trustees have moved funds from cold to …

Mt. Gox Funds Arrive at Kraken, Distribution Set to Begin Read More »

Metaplanet Acquires Additional $1.2M in Bitcoin Amid Price Surge

On July 16, Metaplanet’s share price surged 22% on the Tokyo Stock Exchange after announcing a $1.2 million Bitcoin purchase. The company acquired 21.88 BTC, bringing its total holdings to 225.6 BTC, valued at $14.6 million. This purchase, along with Bitcoin’s 4.4% price rise in the last 24 hours, drove Metaplanet’s share price up 25.8% …

Metaplanet Acquires Additional $1.2M in Bitcoin Amid Price Surge Read More »

Trump Selects Pro-Crypto Senator JD Vance as Vice Presidential Candidate

Former President Donald Trump has chosen Senator JD Vance as his running mate for the 2024 election. Vance, who holds between $100,001 and $250,000 in Bitcoin, is a strong supporter of cryptocurrencies. He has voted in favor of pro-crypto legislation, including a resolution to overturn a rule requiring banks to report crypto as a liability, …

Trump Selects Pro-Crypto Senator JD Vance as Vice Presidential Candidate Read More »

Lazarus Group Launders Millions from DMM Bitcoin Hack via Cambodian Marketplace

In May, hackers stole $305 million from DMM Bitcoin. Recently, over $35 million of this stolen cryptocurrency was laundered through the Cambodian marketplace Huione Guarantee, which is reportedly linked to Cambodia’s ruling Hun family. Blockchain forensics firm Elliptic and cryptocurrency investigator ZachXBT revealed that Huione Guarantee has handled $11 billion in illicit crypto transactions. The …

Lazarus Group Launders Millions from DMM Bitcoin Hack via Cambodian Marketplace Read More »

Trump Memecoin Gains 30% Amid Assassination Attempt

Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, which caused a significant impact on Trump-themed cryptocurrencies and his election odds on prediction markets. The largest Trump memecoin, MAGA (TRUMP), surged over 30%, and its market capitalization increased dramatically. Other Trump-themed memecoins like Tremp (TREMP) and MAGA Hat (MAGA) also …

Trump Memecoin Gains 30% Amid Assassination Attempt Read More »

Dough Finance Falls Victim to $1.8M Flash Loan Hack

Dough Finance, a DeFi protocol, suffered a $1.8 million loss due to a flash loan attack that exploited unvalidated calldata. The attacker stole 608 ETH by manipulating the “ConnectorDeleverageParaswap” contract. Web3 security firms Cyvers and Olympix detected and analyzed the attack. Cyvers confirmed that Aave pools were safe, while Olympix advised Dough Finance users to …

Dough Finance Falls Victim to $1.8M Flash Loan Hack Read More »

Germany Approaches Final Phase of Bitcoin Sales, Holds Under 5K BTC

On Thursday, blockchain data showed that German authorities from Saxony transferred 10,567 BTC, worth over $600 million, to exchanges like Bitstamp, Coinbase, and Kraken, as well as brokers such as Flow Traders and Cumberland DRW, according to Arkham Intelligence. This reduced their holdings to 4,925 BTC ($285 million) from nearly 50,000 BTC ($3 billion) three …

Germany Approaches Final Phase of Bitcoin Sales, Holds Under 5K BTC Read More »

Illegal Crypto Miners in Malaysia Stole $723M in Electricity: Deputy Minister

Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation reported $723 million in electricity theft by illegal crypto miners from 2018 to 2023. This announcement was made at an event where over 2,000 seized mining machines, worth about $467,000, were destroyed. The theft has severely impacted the state power company, Tenaga Nasional Berhad, and local …

Illegal Crypto Miners in Malaysia Stole $723M in Electricity: Deputy Minister Read More »

BitMEX Pleads Guilty to Bank Secrecy Act Charges, AML Failures Highlighted

The US Department of Justice announced that BitMEX, a cryptocurrency exchange, admitted to violating the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) by failing to establish an effective Anti-Money Laundering (AML) program from 2015 to 2020. US Attorney Damian Williams highlighted that BitMEX’s lack of a robust AML program facilitated large-scale money laundering and sanctions evasion, posing a …

BitMEX Pleads Guilty to Bank Secrecy Act Charges, AML Failures Highlighted Read More »

Massive $11 Billion Crypto Fraud Tied to Huione Guarantee, Says Elliptic

Elliptic’s report exposes how the Huione Guarantee marketplace, operated by the Cambodian conglomerate Huione Group, facilitated over $11 billion in money laundering and cyber scams, primarily using Tether (USDT) transactions. The marketplace, mostly operating in Chinese, is linked to various illegal activities, including selling personal data, money laundering, and developing tools for scam operations and …

Massive $11 Billion Crypto Fraud Tied to Huione Guarantee, Says Elliptic Read More »

Circle Launches Euro-Backed Stablecoin on Base Network

Circle has launched its euro-backed stablecoin, EURC, on the Base network, as of July 9. This expands EURC’s native issuance to Base, an Ethereum layer-2 network, alongside its existing presence on Avalanche, Ethereum, Solana, and Stellar. Previously, layer-2 networks could only use derivative forms of EURC. Circle’s announcement highlights that this new version will simplify …

Circle Launches Euro-Backed Stablecoin on Base Network Read More »

Australian Securities Exchange Approves DigitalX’s BTXX Bitcoin ETF

Australia’s ASX has approved the launch of DigitalX’s Bitcoin ETF, trading under the ticker “BTXX,” starting Friday. This marks a significant development for Australian investors, as it allows them to invest in Bitcoin without managing digital wallets. The ETF is a collaboration between DigitalX, K2 Asset Management, and Canada’s 3iQ, a pioneer in crypto ETFs. …

Australian Securities Exchange Approves DigitalX’s BTXX Bitcoin ETF Read More »

Bitcoin Slumps as Germany Dumps $900M in BTC

The German government is selling off its Bitcoin holdings, with a recent $900 million sale raising concerns about downward pressure on BTC prices. The “German Government (BKA)” wallet transferred approximately 16,309 BTC on July 8, marking its largest single-day liquidation. Transfers went to exchanges like Bitstamp, Coinbase, Kraken, and market makers like Flow Traders and …

Bitcoin Slumps as Germany Dumps $900M in BTC Read More »

$1.7M Vanishes: Coinbase Scam Leaves Victim Reeling

A victim lost $1.7 million to scammers posing as Coinbase representatives. The scam involved a phone call and emails that appeared to be from Coinbase, convincing the victim to share part of their seed phrase. The scammers claimed that the victim’s wallet was “connecting directly with the blockchain,” prompting the victim to enter their seed …

$1.7M Vanishes: Coinbase Scam Leaves Victim Reeling Read More »

Justin Sun Announces Development of Gas-Free Stablecoins on Tron and Ethereum

Tron’s founder, Justin Sun, has announced plans for a gas-free stablecoin solution aimed at enhancing corporate adoption of blockchain technology. Set to launch on the Tron blockchain in the fourth quarter and later on Ethereum and other EVM-compatible chains, this solution would allow peer-to-peer transfers without gas fees, covered entirely by the stablecoins. Sun believes …

Justin Sun Announces Development of Gas-Free Stablecoins on Tron and Ethereum Read More »

Mt. Gox Transfers $2.7 Billion in Bitcoin to New Wallet Amid Creditor Repayments

Mt. Gox, a collapsed Japanese crypto exchange, transferred 47,229 Bitcoin (worth $2.71 billion) to a new wallet address, marking its first major transaction since May. This movement is part of Mt. Gox’s plan to repay creditors, with a total of $8.5 billion in Bitcoin scheduled for repayment. On July 5, the exchange also moved 1,545 …

Mt. Gox Transfers $2.7 Billion in Bitcoin to New Wallet Amid Creditor Repayments Read More »

Justin Sun Offers to Buy German Government’s $2.3B Bitcoin Holdings

Tron founder Justin Sun has offered to buy the German government’s Bitcoin holdings, valued at over $2.3 billion, to minimize the negative price impact of market sales. This offer comes as the German government-linked wallet, believed to contain Bitcoin seized from the pirate movie website operator Movie2k, has been steadily selling its holdings since mid-June. …

Justin Sun Offers to Buy German Government’s $2.3B Bitcoin Holdings Read More »

Nigeria to Establish Nationwide AI and Blockchain Research Hubs

Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) announced plans to establish research centers across the six geopolitical zones, focusing on AI, IoT, blockchain, UAVs, additive manufacturing, and robotics. NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, revealed this initiative at the IoT West Africa Conference in Lagos, highlighting efforts to foster a robust technology research ecosystem. The centers aim …

Nigeria to Establish Nationwide AI and Blockchain Research Hubs Read More »

Riot Platforms Sees Record-Breaking Hash Rate Surge to 22 EH/s

In June, Bitcoin mining firm Riot Platforms increased its hash rate by 50%, reaching 22 exahashes per second (EH/s), surpassing CleanSpark and Core Scientific, and now only trailing Marathon Digital’s 31.5 EH/s. This growth was due to completing miner installations at its Corsicana and Rockdale facilities. Riot mined 255 Bitcoin in June, a near-20% increase …

Riot Platforms Sees Record-Breaking Hash Rate Surge to 22 EH/s Read More »

German Government Moves $52M in Bitcoin, Market Impact Feared

A cryptocurrency wallet linked to the German government sold $52 million worth of Bitcoin, raising suspicions of a broader sell-off. On July 2, the wallet transferred 832.7 BTC in four transactions: 100 BTC to Coinbase, 150 BTC to Bitstamp, 32.74 BTC to Kraken, and 550 BTC to an unknown wallet “139Po,” which previously received funds …

German Government Moves $52M in Bitcoin, Market Impact Feared Read More »

Aave’s GHO Stablecoin Debuts on Arbitrum: What It Means for DeFi

Aave has deployed its GHO stablecoin on the Arbitrum network following a vote from its decentralized autonomous organization (DAO). This decision aims to leverage Arbitrum’s low transaction costs and increased throughput. The deployment is part of a phased plan to eventually launch GHO on multiple networks, prioritizing security and risk management. Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol …

Aave’s GHO Stablecoin Debuts on Arbitrum: What It Means for DeFi Read More »

Bahamas to Enforce Bank Compliance with ‘Sand Dollar’ CBDC

The Bahamas is set to mandate commercial banks to support its “Sand Dollar”central bank digital currency (CBDC) to boost its adoption. Despite being an early adopter, the usage of the Sand Dollar, launched in 2020, has been slow, with the CBDC representing less than 1% of the country’s currency. John Rolle, the governor of the …

Bahamas to Enforce Bank Compliance with ‘Sand Dollar’ CBDC Read More »

SEC Takes Action Against Silvergate for $9B FTX Fraud

The SEC has sued Silvergate Capital Corporation, alleging its involvement in a $9 billion fraud related to the collapsed FTX exchange. The SEC claims that Silvergate, along with former CEO Alan Lane and former Chief Risk Officer Kathleen Fraher, misled investors about their compliance programs and monitoring of crypto customers. Former CFO Antonio Martino is …

SEC Takes Action Against Silvergate for $9B FTX Fraud Read More »

Polymarket Reaches $100M Monthly Volume as Presidential Bets Increase

Polymarket, a decentralized predictions platform, has reached a monthly trading volume of $100 million amid increased betting on the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Currently, $203.3 million in bets have been placed on the election outcome across 17 prediction markets. Former President Donald Trump leads with 62% odds and $24.7 million in bets. Incumbent President Joe …

Polymarket Reaches $100M Monthly Volume as Presidential Bets Increase Read More »

Floki Inu Warns Community About Fake Tokens on Solana and Base

Floki Inu has issued a warning to its community about fake tokens falsely claiming to be affiliated with the Floki Inu brand on the Solana and Base blockchains. The project emphasized that the legitimate FLOKI token is only available on the BNB Smart Chain and Ethereum networks, providing the correct contract addresses for verification. Despite …

Floki Inu Warns Community About Fake Tokens on Solana and Base Read More »

Trump Receives $1M Crypto Donation from Kraken Co-founder Jesse Powell

Jesse Powell, co-founder of Kraken, has donated $1 million in Ether to Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, highlighting Trump as the only pro-crypto major party candidate. Powell criticized the Biden administration, particularly Senator Elizabeth Warren and SEC Chair Gary Gensler, for harming U.S. competitiveness in the crypto sector. He believes Trump’s leadership could help the …

Trump Receives $1M Crypto Donation from Kraken Co-founder Jesse Powell Read More »

Coinbase and Stripe Partner to Enhance Fiat-to-Crypto Onboarding

Coinbase and Stripe have announced a partnership to facilitate easier fiat-to-crypto transactions. This integration will introduce support for USD Coin (USDC) on Coinbase’s layer-2 network, Base, enhancing Stripe’s crypto payouts for faster cross-border remittances across 150 countries. USDC will also be part of Stripe’s fiat-to-crypto on-ramp, simplifying the conversion of fiat to digital assets for …

Coinbase and Stripe Partner to Enhance Fiat-to-Crypto Onboarding Read More »

State Street and Galaxy Digital Team Up to Launch New Digital Asset ETFs

State Street Global Advisors has partnered with Galaxy Digital to introduce new exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focused on digital assets, extending beyond just spot Bitcoin ETFs. The new ETFs will target investments in publicly traded digital asset firms, such as crypto exchanges, mining firms, hardware wallet providers, and crypto-focused venture capital firms, both in the U.S. …

State Street and Galaxy Digital Team Up to Launch New Digital Asset ETFs Read More »

U.S. Government Transfers 3,940 Seized Bitcoin to Coinbase – What You Need to Know

The U.S. government has transferred 3,940 Bitcoin to a Coinbase Prime wallet on June 26, 2024. These Bitcoins were seized from Banmeet Singh, a convicted drug dealer, during his January 2024 trial. Singh, arrested in 2019 in London and extradited to the U.S. in 2023, ran a narcotics smuggling network from 2012 to 2017. As …

U.S. Government Transfers 3,940 Seized Bitcoin to Coinbase – What You Need to Know Read More »

Hong Kong Eyes Fintech Growth with DeFi and Metaverse

Hong Kong’s government-backed studies highlight the significant growth potential of decentralized finance (DeFi) and metaverse technologies despite current challenges. Released on June 25 by the Hong Kong Institute for Monetary and Financial Research (HKIMR), the reports emphasize DeFi’s remarkable expansion from a $6 billion market cap in 2021 to over $80 billion in 2023, underscoring …

Hong Kong Eyes Fintech Growth with DeFi and Metaverse Read More »

Tether Ends Support for USDT on EOS and Algorand Blockchains

Tether has announced it will stop issuing new USDT tokens on the EOS and Algorand blockchains starting June 24, 2024. The decision aligns with Tether’s strategy to focus resources on enhancing security and efficiency while promoting innovation. Despite halting new issuance, Tether will continue redeeming USDT on these blockchains for the next 12 months, with …

Tether Ends Support for USDT on EOS and Algorand Blockchains Read More »

Jump Crypto President Steps Down During CFTC Probe

Kanav Kariya, head of Jump Trading’s digital asset arm Jump Crypto, has announced his resignation amid reports of a Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) investigation. In a June 24 social media post, Kariya, now the former president of Jump Crypto, shared his plans to focus on personal relationships and reading while exploring new ventures, describing …

Jump Crypto President Steps Down During CFTC Probe Read More »

Michael Saylor Predicts Bitcoin Will Soar to $10M and Transform Economics

Michael Saylor, co-founder and executive chairman of MicroStrategy, shared his views on Bitcoin in an 84-minute podcast with host Robin Seyr. Saylor made a bold prediction that Bitcoin’s price would reach $10 million per coin. He praised Bitcoin as “perfect money”, contrasting it with “imperfect money” and suggested it could provide economic immortality for companies. …

Michael Saylor Predicts Bitcoin Will Soar to $10M and Transform Economics Read More »

Binance Takes Action: $5.3M in Stolen BtcTurk Funds Frozen

Binance is assisting in investigating a malicious attack on the Turkish crypto exchange BtcTurk, where over $5 million in stolen funds have been frozen. Binance CEO Richard Teng announced on June 22 that Binance is helping with the investigation and has already frozen $5.3 million in stolen funds. The attack primarily affected BtcTurk’s hot wallets, …

Binance Takes Action: $5.3M in Stolen BtcTurk Funds Frozen Read More »

Ripple Faces Lawsuit Over CEO’s Alleged Misleading XRP Statements

A federal court in California has allowed a civil securities lawsuit against Ripple Labs to proceed, rejecting the company’s request for summary judgment. The case focuses on allegations that Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse made misleading statements during a 2017 interview, claiming he was “very, very long” on XRP while allegedly selling millions of XRP that …

Ripple Faces Lawsuit Over CEO’s Alleged Misleading XRP Statements Read More »

CertiK Returns $3 Million to Kraken, Resolving Bug Bounty Conflict

Kraken has successfully recovered nearly $3 million in digital assets following a bug bounty exploit incident involving blockchain security firm CertiK. The issue began on June 9 when a security researcher maliciously withdrew the funds from Kraken’s treasury after discovering and sharing a bug. Despite initial claims by CertiK that Kraken threatened its employees over …

CertiK Returns $3 Million to Kraken, Resolving Bug Bounty Conflict Read More »

VanEck’s Bitcoin ETF Starts Strong with 99,791 Shares Traded on ASX on First Day

The VanEck Bitcoin ETF launched on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), marking a significant step in bringing global BTC ETF trends to Australia. On its debut, the ETF saw a 1% increase from its opening price, closing at A$20.06 ($13.4) with nearly 100,000 shares traded. This ETF invests in VanEck’s U.S. Bitcoin Trust. The launch …

VanEck’s Bitcoin ETF Starts Strong with 99,791 Shares Traded on ASX on First Day Read More »

Crypto Giant Binance Appeals $4.4M Fine in Canada

Binance, a cryptocurrency exchange, announced its exit from the Canadian market in 2023 but may still face enforcement actions from local regulators. Binance has filed an appeal against a $4.4 million fine imposed by the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) for alleged noncompliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing …

Crypto Giant Binance Appeals $4.4M Fine in Canada Read More »

North Dakota Revokes Binance.US Money Transmitter License

North Dakota has revoked the money transmitter license for Binance.US, making it the seventh state to do so. Lise Kruse, Commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), announced that BAM Trading Services, operating as Binance.US, failed to comply with state money transmitter laws. The revocation is linked to federal convictions against Binance …

North Dakota Revokes Binance.US Money Transmitter License Read More »

CleanSpark’s Bold Expansion: Five New Georgia Mining Sites Acquired

CleanSpark, an American Bitcoin mining company focused on clean energy, has announced a $25.8 million agreement to acquire five mining facilities in Georgia. The deal, expected to close immediately, will add over 3.7 exahashes per second (EH/s) to CleanSpark’s processing power, potentially boosting the company’s total hashrate to over 20 EH/s by the end of …

CleanSpark’s Bold Expansion: Five New Georgia Mining Sites Acquired Read More »

Uphold to Delist USDT and Five Stablecoins by July 1 Due to MiCA Compliance

Uphold will remove support for six stablecoins, including Tether (USDT) and Dai (DAI), by July 1 to comply with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). Users must convert these stablecoins to other cryptocurrencies by June 28, or Uphold will automatically convert them to USD Coin (USDC). This change aligns with MiCA’s stricter regulations …

Uphold to Delist USDT and Five Stablecoins by July 1 Due to MiCA Compliance Read More »

Meet Alloy: Tether’s Innovative Gold-Backed Stablecoin

Tether has introduced a new gold-backed stablecoin called Alloy (aUSDT), pegged to the U.S. dollar. This is Tether’s first asset of this type, available on the Alloy by Tether platform. Alloy is overcollateralized by Tether Gold (XAUt), which represents ownership of physical gold, and mimics the value and functionality of the U.S. dollar through synthetic …

Meet Alloy: Tether’s Innovative Gold-Backed Stablecoin Read More »

Mark Cuban Predicts Gensler’s Moves Might Be Biden’s Election Downfall

Billionaire investor Mark Cuban has expressed concerns that Gary Gensler’s actions as head of the SEC could negatively impact President Joe Biden’s re-election chances. Speaking at Coinbase’s State of Crypto Summit, Cuban suggested that Gensler could “literally cost Joe Biden the election.” Cuban has previously called for regulatory clarity and suggested the CFTC should oversee …

Mark Cuban Predicts Gensler’s Moves Might Be Biden’s Election Downfall Read More »

Trump Pledges to End Biden’s Crypto Crackdown

Former President Donald Trump has pledged to end what he calls President Joe Biden’s “war on crypto” if he is re-elected. Speaking in West Palm Beach, Florida, on his 78th birthday, Trump promised that the future of crypto, particularly Bitcoin, would be secured and advanced in the United States, with a focus on Florida. Trump …

Trump Pledges to End Biden’s Crypto Crackdown Read More »

Swiss Financial Watchdog Forces FlowBank Into Bankruptcy

FlowBank, a Swiss online bank known for its cryptocurrency trading services, has been ordered into bankruptcy by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA). The regulator found that FlowBank had severely breached necessary standards, particularly failing to maintain the required minimum capital for its operations. With no possibility of restructuring and concerns of over-indebtedness, FINMA …

Swiss Financial Watchdog Forces FlowBank Into Bankruptcy Read More »

Approval of Spot Ether ETFs Expected by Summer 2024, SEC Chair Says

The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is expected to approve the listing and trading of spot Ether ETFs within the next three months, according to SEC Chair Gary Gensler. During a Senate Banking Committee hearing on June 13, Gensler mentioned that the approval of S-1 registration statements for asset managers could occur “sometime …

Approval of Spot Ether ETFs Expected by Summer 2024, SEC Chair Says Read More »

MicroStrategy Plans $500M Stock Sale to Bolster Bitcoin Holdings

MicroStrategy has announced plans to conduct a $500 million stock sale to purchase more Bitcoin. This move reinforces its strategy of using Bitcoin as a primary treasury reserve asset. The company will offer $500 million in convertible senior notes, which are due in 2032. These notes will be unsecured and bear interest payable semi-annually, with …

MicroStrategy Plans $500M Stock Sale to Bolster Bitcoin Holdings Read More »

Riot Acquires 13% Stake in Bitfarms Amid CEO’s ‘Poison Pill’ Concerns

Riot Platforms has acquired a 13.1% stake in Bitfarms, purchasing around six million common shares valued at over $111 million. This acquisition comes amidst Riot’s takeover attempt, which Bitfarms is trying to thwart using a “poison pill” strategy introduced on June 10. This strategy aims to prevent Riot from acquiring a 15% or larger stake …

Riot Acquires 13% Stake in Bitfarms Amid CEO’s ‘Poison Pill’ Concerns Read More »

Trump Demands ‘Made in the USA’ Bitcoin After Hosting Top Miners

Donald Trump has expressed strong support for the Bitcoin mining industry. On June 11, he emphasized his desire for Bitcoin mining to be based in the USA, claiming it would help achieve energy dominance and serve as a defense against central bank digital currencies. This stance was reaffirmed after a meeting with executives from major …

Trump Demands ‘Made in the USA’ Bitcoin After Hosting Top Miners Read More »

Ripple Labs Seals the Deal: Standard Custody Acquisition Complete!

Ripple Labs has completed its acquisition of Standard Custody, a digital asset custodian, as of June 11. This move is part of Ripple’s strategy to introduce a US dollar stablecoin and advance in real-world asset tokenization. Jack McDonald, CEO of Standard Custody, will also serve as Ripple’s senior vice president of stablecoins. Standard Custody’s approval …

Ripple Labs Seals the Deal: Standard Custody Acquisition Complete! Read More »

Australia’s Premier Crypto Group Rebrands as DECA

Blockchain Australia has rebranded as the Digital Economic Council of Australia (DECA) to attract a broader range of fintech firms and banks. This change includes new membership categories for various sectors, including banks, many of which have blocked crypto exchanges. The rebranding aligns with CEO Simon Callaghan’s resignation, with Amy-Rose Goodey stepping in as managing …

Australia’s Premier Crypto Group Rebrands as DECA Read More »

Withdrawals Paused as Lykke Exchange Admits to $22M Hack

Lykke cryptocurrency exchange was hacked on June 4, leading to a halt in withdrawals announced on June 10. The exchange assured users that their funds are safe and will be recovered. Both Lykke UK and Lykke Corp AG were impacted, with withdrawals paused as a preventive measure. Lykke, established in 2015 in Switzerland, is known …

Withdrawals Paused as Lykke Exchange Admits to $22M Hack Read More »

Crypto Giant Binance Surpasses 200M Users with $100B in Custody

Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, announced it has reached 200 million global users, a significant milestone that positions it as serving over a third of all cryptocurrency holders worldwide. This achievement was celebrated on June 8, 2024, with Binance promoting the news across its social media platforms. Binance’s growth trajectory has …

Crypto Giant Binance Surpasses 200M Users with $100B in Custody Read More »

Axie Infinity Developer Sky Mavis Reclaims $5.7M from Major Hack

Sky Mavis, the company behind Axie Infinity, has recovered $5.7 million from the 2022 Ronin Bridge hack with the help of Norwegian authorities. Norway’s Økokrim froze and returned the stolen funds after extensive coordination with law enforcement, legal experts, accountants, and blockchain forensic teams like Chainalysis. The company expressed gratitude to both Norwegian authorities and …

Axie Infinity Developer Sky Mavis Reclaims $5.7M from Major Hack Read More »

Telegram Introduces ‘Stars’ Token for In-App Digital Purchases

Telegram has introduced “Telegram Stars,” a new in-app token for buying digital goods and services on its platform. Pavel Durov, Telegram’s CEO, announced that mini apps could use Stars for in-app purchases, facilitating an easier payment process. Developers can convert Stars to Toncoin (TON) via Fragment, a platform for trading Telegram usernames, and use Stars …

Telegram Introduces ‘Stars’ Token for In-App Digital Purchases Read More »

Kraken Eyes $100M Funding Ahead of Potential IPO

Kraken, a prominent United States-based cryptocurrency exchange, is reportedly gearing up to initiate a funding round aimed at raising over $100 million, setting the stage for a potential initial public offering (IPO) by 2023. According to a recent Bloomberg report, Kraken is strategically exploring various pathways to foster global adoption of cryptocurrencies, although specific details …

Kraken Eyes $100M Funding Ahead of Potential IPO Read More »

New Law Gives POTUS Control to Restrict Digital Asset Access

A recent U.S. law grants the President significant powers to restrict access to digital assets, eliciting concerns due to its potential to impose sweeping restrictions. Critic Scott Johnsson describes the law as giving the President the authority to ban users from specific protocols or smart contracts deemed connected to foreign sanctions violators by the Treasury …

New Law Gives POTUS Control to Restrict Digital Asset Access Read More »

Coinbase Launches Wallet with No Gas Fees and Effortless Onboarding

Coinbase is launching a new smart wallet designed to enhance user convenience and security by eliminating gas fees and simplifying the onboarding process. The wallet allows users to create a new wallet and start using blockchain without needing a new app or recovery phrase, integrating with major apps and using passkeys stored on devices for …

Coinbase Launches Wallet with No Gas Fees and Effortless Onboarding Read More »

Japanese Crypto Exchange DMM Bitcoin Raises $320M for Post-Hack Recovery

DMM Bitcoin, a Japanese crypto exchange, was recently hacked, resulting in a loss of $320 million worth of Bitcoin (4,503 BTC). To compensate affected users, DMM Bitcoin plans to raise 50 billion yen ($320 million) by procuring Bitcoin from its group company, DMM.com. The exchange assured users that it will minimize market impact during the …

Japanese Crypto Exchange DMM Bitcoin Raises $320M for Post-Hack Recovery Read More »

SEC Office Shuts Down After $1.8 Million Penalty in DEBT Box Case

A federal judge ordered the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to pay $1.8 million following “bad faith conduct” related to a temporary restraining order to freeze DEBT Box’s assets. This decision led to the closure of the SEC’s Salt Lake Regional Office due to “significant attrition,” with operations shifting to Denver. Judge Robert Shelby …

SEC Office Shuts Down After $1.8 Million Penalty in DEBT Box Case Read More »

Coinbase Joins Ripple and Andreessen Horowitz with $25M Donation to Fairshake PAC

Coinbase has contributed $25 million to the crypto-focused super political action committee (PAC) Fairshake, joining forces with Andreessen Horowitz and Ripple. This brings the total funds raised by Fairshake to $160 million for this election cycle. The PAC aims to influence U.S. elections by supporting pro-crypto candidates and opposing anti-crypto ones. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong …

Coinbase Joins Ripple and Andreessen Horowitz with $25M Donation to Fairshake PAC Read More »

Historic Launch: Australia’s First Direct Bitcoin ETF Goes Live Today

Australia’s first spot-bitcoin ETF with direct bitcoin holdings is set to launch on the Cboe Australia exchange. Monochrome Asset Management’s Monochrome Bitcoin (BTC) Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF), known as IBTC, will begin trading today. This product is unique in Australia as it directly holds bitcoin, unlike the two existing crypto-related exchange-traded products which only offer indirect …

Historic Launch: Australia’s First Direct Bitcoin ETF Goes Live Today Read More »

OKX Launches Crypto Exchange and Wallet in the Netherlands

OKX, a major global cryptocurrency exchange, has officially launched its services in the Netherlands, rebranding from Okcoin Europe. The launch includes a centralized crypto exchange (CEX) and the OKX Wallet, which allows Dutch users to trade around 150 cryptocurrencies, with at least 60 trading pairs available in euros. OKX has integrated with the local payment …

OKX Launches Crypto Exchange and Wallet in the Netherlands Read More »

Nayib Bukele: El Salvador’s Bitcoin President Takes Oath for Another Term

El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, a strong advocate for Bitcoin, has been sworn in for another five-year term. Bukele’s pro-Bitcoin stance has earned him significant praise within the cryptocurrency community. After a decisive victory in February, he was celebrated by figures like Cory Bates and Pete Rizzo for his leadership and commitment to Bitcoin. The …

Nayib Bukele: El Salvador’s Bitcoin President Takes Oath for Another Term Read More »

Robinhood Introduces Crypto API for US Market

Robinhood has launched a new cryptocurrency trading API for US users, announced on May 30, designed to attract experienced crypto traders. This API enables automated trading strategies, allowing users to respond swiftly to market changes and execute trades without manually opening the Robinhood app. Developers can build custom tools and programs for crypto trading, utilizing …

Robinhood Introduces Crypto API for US Market Read More »

Former Bank Executive Sentenced to 41 Months for Cryptocurrency Fraud

Rashawn Russell, a former Deutsche Bank executive, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for wire fraud and access device fraud involving a cryptocurrency scheme. Operating the fraudulent R3 Crypto Fund from November 2020 to August 2022, Russell promised significant returns on cryptocurrency investments but used investors’ money for personal expenses and to repay other …

Former Bank Executive Sentenced to 41 Months for Cryptocurrency Fraud Read More »

New PayPal Stablecoin on Solana Features Confidential Transfers

PayPal has expanded its PYUSD stablecoin to the Solana blockchain, introducing “confidential transfers” as a key feature. This enhancement allows merchants to keep transaction amounts private while remaining accessible for regulatory scrutiny. Crypto enthusiast Udi Wertheimer noted the similarity to Bitcoin’s unimplemented “confidential transactions.” Helius Labs CEO Mert Mumtaz highlighted Solana’s support for confidential transfers …

New PayPal Stablecoin on Solana Features Confidential Transfers Read More »

Mastercard Launches Crypto Credentials P2P Pilot Program

Mastercard has launched a Crypto Credentials P2P pilot program to simplify crypto transactions and reduce user errors. This pilot involves exchange partners Bit2Me, Lirium, Mercado, and wallet provider FoxBit, aiming to streamline the user experience by assigning human-readable aliases to users, verified by Mastercard. This innovation eliminates the need to handle complex wallet addresses and …

Mastercard Launches Crypto Credentials P2P Pilot Program Read More »

BlackRock’s IBIT Now World’s Largest Bitcoin ETF, Surpassing GBTC

BlackRock’s $20 billion spot Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) recorded significant inflows of over $102 million on May 28, surpassing Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) to become the world’s largest Bitcoin ETF. On the same day, GBTC experienced outflows of $105 million. As a result, BlackRock’s ETF now holds 288,670 Bitcoin, compared to Grayscale’s 287,450 Bitcoin, down from …

BlackRock’s IBIT Now World’s Largest Bitcoin ETF, Surpassing GBTC Read More »

Binance France Undergoes Ownership Change After AMF Warning

Binance France has undergone a change in ownership following a warning from the Financial Markets Authority (AMF) in December. The company is now owned equally by new shareholders, after former CEO Changpeng Zhao exited the company due to regulatory issues involving the U.S. Justice Department, CFTC, and the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. Zhao pleaded …

Binance France Undergoes Ownership Change After AMF Warning Read More »

Mt. Gox Moves $9B in Bitcoin to Single Address for Repayment Plans

On May 28, 2024, Mt. Gox, the defunct Bitcoin exchange, transferred over 140,000 BTC, valued at approximately $9 billion, to a single address. This series of thirteen transactions likely aims to repay creditors by October 31, 2024. The process began with a test transaction of $3 on May 20, followed by another small transaction of …

Mt. Gox Moves $9B in Bitcoin to Single Address for Repayment Plans Read More »

Nomura Holdings and GMO Group Launch Stablecoin Research Partnership in Japan

Nomura Holdings and GMO Internet Group are partnering to introduce stablecoins in Japan, pegged to the Japanese yen and the US dollar. This collaboration includes Laser Digital Holdings, a subsidiary of Nomura that deals with digital assets. The initiative will focus on traditional stablecoin issuance, ensuring regulatory compliance, and offering stablecoins-as-a-service. Nomura Holdings CEO Kentaro …

Nomura Holdings and GMO Group Launch Stablecoin Research Partnership in Japan Read More »

Argentina Eyes El Salvador’s Bitcoin Triumph for Inspiration

The government of Argentina is collaborating with El Salvador to gain insights from its experience in Bitcoin adoption and other cryptocurrency activities. Argentina’s National Securities Commission (CNV) recently met with El Salvador’s National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD) to discuss crypto adoption and regulation, according to an official CNV announcement. During the meeting on May …

Argentina Eyes El Salvador’s Bitcoin Triumph for Inspiration Read More »

Trump Vows to Free Silk Road Founder Ross Ulbricht if Re-Elected

Former President Donald Trump has pledged to pardon Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road, if he is re-elected in the upcoming November election. “If you vote for me, on day one I will commute the sentence of Ross Ulbircht,” Trump declared at the Libertarian Party’s National Convention in Washington on May 25. “He’s already …

Trump Vows to Free Silk Road Founder Ross Ulbricht if Re-Elected Read More »

Binance Executive Collapses During Nigeria Money Laundering Hearing

Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive detained in Nigeria, collapsed during his trial for alleged foreign exchange violations and money laundering offenses in the Federal High Court in Abuja. His lawyer, Mark Mordi, informed the court on May 22 that Gambaryan had been unwell since the previous trial date. Gambaryan had missed a court appearance for …

Binance Executive Collapses During Nigeria Money Laundering Hearing Read More »

Coinbase Resumes XRP Trading in New York

On May 23, Coinbase’s chief legal officer, Paul Grewal, announced that customers in New York can trade XRP again after a nine-month hiatus. Grewal stated, “XRP trading on Coinbase is available again in NY. We heard you and put in the work in strong partnership with the State. And now the word can be put …

Coinbase Resumes XRP Trading in New York Read More »

Could Solana ETFs Be Next? A CNBC Trader Sparks Controversy

Brian Kelly, a crypto investor and CNBC “Fast Money” trader, suggested that Solana (SOL) could be the next cryptocurrency to receive a spot exchange-traded fund (ETF) in the United States. He made this prediction on May 22, ahead of the SEC’s decision on a proposed spot Ether (ETH) ETF. Kelly’s view sparked a debate, with …

Could Solana ETFs Be Next? A CNBC Trader Sparks Controversy Read More »

Breakthrough for Crypto: FIT21 Bill Passes US House with Bipartisan Support

On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act (FIT21) with a 279 to 136 vote. This bill aims to provide regulatory clarity for digital assets by defining the roles of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The …

Breakthrough for Crypto: FIT21 Bill Passes US House with Bipartisan Support Read More »

Coffeezilla Exposes AI Firm Rabbit in Alleged NFT Scam

YouTube investigator Stephen Findeisen, better known as “Coffeezilla,” has accused the artificial intelligence company Rabbit of orchestrating a nonfungible token (NFT) scam and attempting to conceal it. On May 21, Findeisen published a video on his Coffeezilla channel revealing Rabbit AI’s involvement in NFTs. He pointed out that the company was previously called Cyber Manufacture …

Coffeezilla Exposes AI Firm Rabbit in Alleged NFT Scam Read More »

Fidelity Updates Ether ETF S-1 Filing, Excludes ETH Staking

Fidelity has submitted an amended S-1 application to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for its spot Ether exchange-traded fund (ETF). The updated filing specifies that the ETF’s underlying Ether tokens will not be staked. This amendment comes after the SEC reportedly reversed its stance on spot Ether ETFs, possibly due to political …

Fidelity Updates Ether ETF S-1 Filing, Excludes ETH Staking Read More »

Yuga Labs Suspends CryptoPunks Project Following Community Criticism

Yuga Labs has suspended its CryptoPunks project in response to significant community backlash over the introduction of its new Super Punk World collection. The collection, announced on May 20, features 500 pieces of hybrid 3D sculptures created by New York-based painter Nina Abney. These pieces were intended to pay homage to the irreverent, early-internet roots …

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Speculation Grows Over SEC Reconsidering Spot Ether ETF

ETF analysts James Seyffart and Eric Balchunas have increased their estimated odds of the SEC approving a spot Ether exchange-traded fund from 25% to 75%. Two exchange-traded fund analysts are reconsidering the chances of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approving a spot Ether (ETH) exchange-traded fund, citing recent discussions about the financial …

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Kraken Confirms USDT Will Stay Listed in Europe for Now

Concerns were raised after a Bloomberg article reported Kraken was “actively reviewing” which tokens it could continue to list under the European Union’s upcoming MiCA framework. Cryptocurrency exchange Kraken has “no plans” to delist Tether (USDT) in Europe at the moment despite a recent report claiming the firm was “actively reviewing” the decision to remain …

Kraken Confirms USDT Will Stay Listed in Europe for Now Read More »

Crypto Mining Banned in Venezuela to Preserve Electricity Supply

The Venezuelan government has joined the list of countries that have frowned on crypto mining due to its hefty electricity demands. According to a local news outlet, Venezuela’s Ministry of Electric Power has unveiled plans to disconnect cryptocurrency mining farms from the national grid. The move aims to regulate excessive energy consumption and guarantee a …

Crypto Mining Banned in Venezuela to Preserve Electricity Supply Read More »

US Banks Join DTCC and Chainlink in Fund Data Tokenization Pilot

The world’s largest settlement system, the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation (DTCC), and blockchain oracle provider Chainlink have concluded a pilot program aimed at increasing the tokenization of traditional finance fund data. This initiative included participation from several major U.S. banking firms, including JPMorgan and BNY Mellon. The Smart NAV Pilot program was designed to …

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French Regulator Alerts Investors on Bybit’s Unauthorized Services

The Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), France’s securities regulator, has reiterated a warning to crypto investors regarding Bybit’s operations in the country. In a notice dated May 16, the AMF reminded the public that Bybit, an unregistered crypto platform, has been operating illegally in France by offering digital asset services on behalf of third parties. …

French Regulator Alerts Investors on Bybit’s Unauthorized Services Read More »

Coinbase Eyes Big Opportunity with Australia’s Self-Managed Pension Funds

Coinbase is actively developing a new service aimed at Australia’s self-managed pension funds, signaling its intention to solidify a foothold in this niche market. John O’Loghlen, the Asia-Pacific Managing Director for the exchange, conveyed to Bloomberg that this initiative is designed to attract and retain clients by offering a unique, tailored trading experience. According to …

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Ethereum Exploit: How Two Brothers Stole $25 Million in Cryptocurrency

In a landmark case, U.S. officials have charged Anton Peraire-Bueno and James Pepaire-Bueno with multiple counts, including wire fraud and money laundering, related to a sophisticated manipulation of the Ethereum blockchain. This manipulation resulted in a theft of $25 million in cryptocurrency, challenging the security measures of the blockchain technology. According to the U.S. Justice …

Ethereum Exploit: How Two Brothers Stole $25 Million in Cryptocurrency Read More »

Solana Developer Admits to Misusing $300K of User Funds in Gambling

In a surprising confession, a developer affiliated with the Solana-based Cypher Protocol, known pseudonymously as Hoak, has admitted to misappropriating nearly $300,000 from user funds to finance personal gambling activities. The acknowledgment of the theft came through a detailed statement by Hoak on a social media platform on May 14. Hoak stated, “To address the …

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Big Move: Wisconsin Pours $164 Million Into Bitcoin ETFs

In a recent disclosure to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB), tasked with overseeing the state’s pension system assets, revealed its significant stake in cryptocurrency. The report detailed investments amounting to approximately $164 million in spot Bitcoin ETFs managed by prominent financial institutions, Grayscale and BlackRock. According …

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Coinbase Faces System-Wide Outage, Temporarily Shuts Down Website

A recent “system-wide” outage at the United States-based cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has left its platform inaccessible, affecting users attempting to use the service on both desktop and mobile platforms. The outage was first reported on Coinbase’s official status page, indicating that a “major outage” began at 4:15 am UTC on May 14. Those attempting to …

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$1.8 Million Settlement Reached Between CFTC and FalconX

The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has successfully filed and resolved charges against the cryptocurrency brokerage firm Falcon Labs, which is a subsidiary of FalconX, culminating in a settlement of approximately $1.8 million. This sum comprises both disgorgement and civil penalties. On May 13, the CFTC issued a notice stating that Falcon Labs …

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Ripple CEO Claims U.S. Government Targeting Tether

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed concerns in a recent podcast about the U.S. government’s scrutiny of Tether, the issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin by market capitalization. Speaking on the May 10 episode of the World Class podcast, Garlinghouse indicated that it was evident the U.S. authorities are targeting Tether, a move he believes could …

Ripple CEO Claims U.S. Government Targeting Tether Read More »

Runes Protocol Experiences Major Downturn in Activity

Despite consistently earning hundreds of thousands of dollars in daily fees, the Runes protocol has seen a notable decline in engagement, with fees surpassing $1 million only twice in the past 12 days. From its initial surge in trading, there has been a visible downturn, especially significant around May 10, marked by fewer new mints …

Runes Protocol Experiences Major Downturn in Activity Read More »

Decade-Old Bitcoin Whale Wallets Transfer $61 Million in BTC

Over a decade ago, two Bitcoin wallets amassed a total of 1,000 BTC, valued at $134 each at the time. Recently, these wallets have re-emerged from dormancy, transferring nearly all of their contents — now valued at $61 million. The first wallet, addressed “16vRqAJ1wfuFBkVMabKnZHLkeN3uwqjzEa,” moved its 500 Bitcoins on May 12 at 7:10 pm UTC during block 843,131. Shortly thereafter, the second wallet, “1DUJuHGVT4sa1VMGjfF9YdFnFAEw6NgfC5,” followed suit, transferring its …

Decade-Old Bitcoin Whale Wallets Transfer $61 Million in BTC Read More »

BlockFi Announces Partnership with Coinbase for Fund Distribution, Ends Web Platform Operations

BlockFi, the crypto lending firm that declared bankruptcy following the collapse of FTX, is finalizing its operations and has announced the closure of its web platform. In a move to manage the distribution of funds effectively, BlockFi has partnered with Coinbase, ensuring that clients have a means to access and withdraw their funds. According to …

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Ripple Enters Multi-Chain DeRec Alliance for Secrets Management

Ripple has expanded its reach in the world of cryptocurrency by becoming one of the newest members of the Decentralized Recovery Alliance (DeRec). This significant move pairs Ripple with notable blockchain organizations such as the Algorand Foundation and Hedera, as well as other industry contributors, to forward the development of a standardized secrets management system. …

Ripple Enters Multi-Chain DeRec Alliance for Secrets Management Read More »

Optimism Introduces Superchain Features for Layer-3 Developers

Optimism, a provider known for enhancing Ethereum’s scalability, is setting its sights higher by encouraging the development of layer-3 applications using its Superchain technology. On May 8, the team at Optimism announced their plan to welcome layer-3 developers to the Superchain, enabling them to utilize the OP Stack for development and benefit from revenue sharing …

Optimism Introduces Superchain Features for Layer-3 Developers Read More »

House Votes to Overturn SEC Guidance on Crypto Banking, SAB 121

The United States House of Representatives recently cast a decisive vote to overturn a contentious directive from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), known as Special Accounting Bulletin (SAB 121). This guidance had effectively restricted banks from holding cryptocurrency assets for their clients. Introduced in March 2022, SAB 121 mandated that banks list clients’ crypto …

House Votes to Overturn SEC Guidance on Crypto Banking, SAB 121 Read More »

After 7 Years, LocalMonero Exchange Shuts Down as Privacy Services Dwindle

After seven years dedicated to serving the Monero community, LocalMonero, a peer-to-peer trading platform for the privacy-focused cryptocurrency Monero (XMR), has announced its immediate closure. This decision comes amid a broader trend of declining support for privacy-centric cryptocurrency services. As of May 7, LocalMonero has ceased accepting new registrations and ad postings for Monero trades. …

After 7 Years, LocalMonero Exchange Shuts Down as Privacy Services Dwindle Read More »

FTX Announces Plans to Fully Compensate Creditors Plus Additional Billions

FTX’s restructuring efforts are set to fully compensate nearly all its creditors, with a significant portion potentially receiving more than their initial claims, amidst ongoing legal proceedings and a recovering cryptocurrency market. Under the new proposal, 98% of FTX’s creditors are slated to receive up to 118% of their allowed claims. The remaining creditors will …

FTX Announces Plans to Fully Compensate Creditors Plus Additional Billions Read More »

ATO Demands Crypto Transaction Data from Crypto Exchanges for 1.2 Million Accounts

In a significant move aimed at enhancing tax compliance, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will compel cryptocurrency exchanges to hand over extensive personal and transaction details of approximately 1.2 million traders. This action is part of a broader effort by the regulator to clamp down on tax evasion among cryptocurrency users. Recently, the ATO announced that this data collection initiative, first disclosed in April, is intended …

ATO Demands Crypto Transaction Data from Crypto Exchanges for 1.2 Million Accounts Read More »

SEC Issues Wells Notice to Robinhood’s Crypto Division

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a Wells notice to Robinhood’s cryptocurrency business, signaling potential enforcement action due to alleged violations related to its crypto operations. The notice, which often precedes enforcement activities, was confirmed through a recent court filing and has notably impacted Robinhood’s market position. Robinhood’s share price dipped by …

SEC Issues Wells Notice to Robinhood’s Crypto Division Read More »

Jack Dorsey Steps Down from Bluesky’s Board

After initiating and supporting the decentralized social network Bluesky during his tenure as Twitter’s CEO, Jack Dorsey has now stepped down from its board. This move marks a significant change for the social platform he helped to create. Bluesky, which was envisioned and financed by Dorsey back in 2019, confirmed his departure in a recent post, stating the organization is on …

Jack Dorsey Steps Down from Bluesky’s Board Read More »

“Seems Fake” Bitfinex CTO Debunks Database Breach Rumors

Recent claims by the hacking group Fsociety about penetrating the cryptocurrency exchange Bitfinex’s database and leaking 22,500 customer emails and passwords have been questioned by Bitfinex’s chief technology officer, Paolo Ardoino. He suggests the allegations lack credibility, pointing out the absence of a ransom demand which is unusual for genuine data breaches. Ardoino explained on a post dated May 4 on the social platform X that genuine …

“Seems Fake” Bitfinex CTO Debunks Database Breach Rumors Read More »

$12.2 Million Seized as Suspect in ZKasino Scam Arrested by Dutch Police

In a significant crackdown on cryptocurrency fraud, Dutch authorities have apprehended a 26-year-old man in connection with the ZKasino online gambling scam. The arrest was executed by the Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) on April 29. The suspect is facing charges of fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. During the operation, Dutch law enforcement confiscated …

$12.2 Million Seized as Suspect in ZKasino Scam Arrested by Dutch Police Read More »

Jack Dorsey’s Block to Invest 10% of Bitcoin Earnings in BTC Each Month

Jack Dorsey, the co-founder of Block, Inc., recently shared with shareholders that the company will allocate 10% of its Bitcoin-related gross profits each month to purchasing more Bitcoin. This announcement came in a May 2 shareholder letter alongside the company’s impressive first-quarter results. Dorsey noted, “Going forward, each month we will be investing 10% of our gross profit from Bitcoin products into Bitcoin purchases.” He emphasized Block’s early …

Jack Dorsey’s Block to Invest 10% of Bitcoin Earnings in BTC Each Month Read More »

Aave Launches Major V4 Protocol Update and Introduces 2030 Roadmap

Aave Labs has recently introduced a new governance proposal detailing significant updates to its protocol, aiming to transition to a more advanced Version 4. This proposal is part of a broader five-year roadmap for the decentralized finance (DeFi) lending platform. The initiative seeks community input as it moves toward enhancing its network and launching next-generation …

Aave Launches Major V4 Protocol Update and Introduces 2030 Roadmap Read More »

BlackRock Spearheads $47M Funding Round for Securitize

Securitize, a digital securities platform, has successfully raised $47 million in a strategic investment round headed by BlackRock. The funding round also saw participation from notable blockchain developers Aptos Labs and Paxos, as well as the stablecoin issuer Circle. The newly acquired funds are earmarked for product development, global expansion, and enhancing partnerships within the financial services ecosystem, according to a statement from Securitize. Joseph Chalom, …

BlackRock Spearheads $47M Funding Round for Securitize Read More »

New Onboarding Restrictions in Nigeria Aim to Stop Crypto Investors from Evading KYC

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued directives to four prominent Nigerian fintech companies—OPay, Kuda Bank, Moniepoint, and PalmPay—mandating them to halt the onboarding of new customers. This measure comes in the wake of a comprehensive audit of their Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, aiming to reinforce compliance across both crypto and conventional investment sectors. TechCabal, a leading African technology news outlet, reported that these restrictions were …

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Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao Receives Four-Month Prison Sentence

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao, widely known as CZ, has been sentenced to four months in prison following his guilty plea for violating U.S. money laundering laws. Zhao, who had been allowed to travel within the United States on a $175 million bond since his plea in November, faced a potential three-year imprisonment as suggested by prosecutors, but ultimately received a lesser …

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao Receives Four-Month Prison Sentence Read More »

Ripple Expands in Japan: SBI Group Adopts XRPL for Supply Chain Management

Ripple is making significant inroads into the Japanese market through a strategic alliance with HashKey DX, aimed at rolling out XRP Ledger-based (XRPL) blockchain applications for business solutions. SBI Group is setting a precedent as the first Japanese corporation to implement XRPL’s blockchain solutions for supply chains, marking a substantial step in Ripple’s push to expand the use of enterprise blockchain applications in Japan. This …

Ripple Expands in Japan: SBI Group Adopts XRPL for Supply Chain Management Read More »

Samourai Wallet Co-Founder Denies Charges, Granted $1 Million Bond

Keonne Rodriguez, a pivotal figure associated with the cryptocurrency mixer Samourai Wallet, has formally denied charges leveled against him by the United States Justice Department. Charged with money laundering among other offenses, Rodriguez made his plea in a recent court session held on April 29 at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Following his plea …

Samourai Wallet Co-Founder Denies Charges, Granted $1 Million Bond Read More »

Solo Bitcoin Miner’s Big Break: Wins 3.125 BTC Block Reward!

A solo Bitcoin miner recently secured a substantial payout of approximately $200,000 by validating block 841,286, earning a reward of 3.125 Bitcoins. This remarkable achievement was made possible by a miner operating independently, which is a rare event in the realm of Bitcoin mining, often likened to winning a lottery due to its rarity. To date, this feat has been …

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Is a Mega Deal Brewing? Sam Altman’s OpenAI May Partner with Worldcoin

In an emerging development within the tech and cryptocurrency sectors, OpenAI and Tools For Humanity’s Worldcoin are reportedly discussing a potential partnership. Both firms were co-founded by Sam Altman, who currently leads OpenAI, an artificial intelligence powerhouse, and has significant ties to Worldcoin, a company focused on leveraging cryptocurrency for universal basic income and identity verification. According to Bloomberg, the talks center around OpenAI …

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Consensys Sues SEC Over Ether Regulation Issues

Software development company Consensys has initiated a lawsuit against the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and its five commissioners. The lawsuit, filed on April 25 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, accuses the SEC of attempting to classify Ethereum (ETH) as a security, a move that marks a significant departure from their previous stance. …

Consensys Sues SEC Over Ether Regulation Issues Read More »

Stripe’s Big Crypto Comeback: USDC Payments Are Back!

After ceasing crypto transactions in 2018 due to high volatility issues with Bitcoin, Stripe has announced its return to the cryptocurrency payment space. This revival, however, is set to begin with a more stable offering: Circle’s USDC stablecoin. The fintech powerhouse plans to support payments on multiple blockchain platforms including Solana, Ethereum, and Polygon. Stripe’s initial foray into crypto began in 2014 …

Stripe’s Big Crypto Comeback: USDC Payments Are Back! Read More »

Morgan Stanley Reportedly Preparing to Let Brokers Offer Bitcoin ETFs

In an exciting development, Morgan Stanley is reportedly planning to enable its 15,000 brokers to recommend bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to their customers. This potential change was detailed in a recent report from AdvisorHub. Historically, the bank has permitted the purchase of ETFs, but only if initiated by the customer. This change marks a significant shift, positioning Morgan Stanley as potentially the first major financial institution to actively …

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Do Kwon Fights Back: Calls Montenegrin Court Ruling ‘Unfounded and Illegal’

The legal entanglements surrounding Terraform Labs co-founder Do Kwon persist, as his attorneys have lodged an appeal against a ruling by a high court in Montenegro. This ruling would have delegated the decision of Kwon’s potential extradition to the United States or South Korea to the Montenegrin Justice Minister. Reports from Montenegrin media outlet Vijesti on April 23 state that Kwon’s legal team is …

Do Kwon Fights Back: Calls Montenegrin Court Ruling ‘Unfounded and Illegal’ Read More »

US Prosecutors Recommend 36-Month Jail Term for Binance Founder

Binance founder and former CEO, Changpeng Zhao, popularly known as “CZ,” is slated to receive his sentence on April 30, following his guilty plea to charges of money laundering in November 2023. As the sentencing date approaches, US prosecutors have submitted a request for Zhao to be incarcerated for 36 months. This recommendation was made in a recent court filing to the US District Court …

US Prosecutors Recommend 36-Month Jail Term for Binance Founder Read More »

How Mt. Gox’s $9 Billion Overhang Might Pressure Bitcoin Values

In the coming weeks, the cryptocurrency market could experience significant turbulence due to the potential return of over $9 billion worth of Bitcoin originally from the Mt. Gox era. Analysts from K33 Research, Anders Helseth and Vetle Lunde, highlight the possible market repercussions in their recent market note dated April 23. This week, several Mt. Gox creditors reported updates on their claims …

How Mt. Gox’s $9 Billion Overhang Might Pressure Bitcoin Values Read More »

How PayPal Plans to Reward Bitcoin Miners Going Green!

PayPal is stepping up to make Bitcoin mining more sustainable by offering additional incentives for environmentally friendly mining practices. This initiative, led by PayPal’s Blockchain Research Group in partnership with Energy Web and DMG Blockchain Solutions, aims to promote the use of low-carbon energy sources among miners. Outlined in a recent blog post dated April 22, the strategy involves offering “cryptoeconomic incentives” to miners …

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Sam Bankman-Fried to Assist FTX Investors in Pursuing Claims Against Celebrity Endorsers

Sam Bankman-Fried has reached a settlement agreement with a group of FTX customers, who in return have agreed to dismiss their class action lawsuit against him. This agreement hinges on Bankman-Fried’s cooperation in pursuing claims against celebrity endorsers of the now-defunct cryptocurrency exchange. The deal, submitted for approval in a Miami court, proposes to absolve Bankman-Fried of both present and future civil liabilities related to FTX’s downfall. …

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Bitwise CEO Predicts Surge in Bitcoin ETF Investments by Wealth Managers

Amid a noticeable surge in demand, Hunter Horsley, CEO of Bitwise, has indicated that wealth management firms are poised to escalate their hol