Live Updates : Cryptocurrency - 24-04-2025

According to NewsBTC, Bitcoin experienced a notable rally, reaching an intraday high of $94,320 after consolidating between $80,000 and $85,000 for much of April. This surge was fueled by substantial inflows into US-based Spot Bitcoin ETFs, which recorded $936.43 million in net inflows on April 22 and $916.91 million on April 23. BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) led the inflows with $643.16 million, followed by Ark & 21 Shares’ ARKB with $129.5 million.

The increased market activity has pushed Bitcoin's total market value to over $1.87 trillion, allowing it to surpass Alphabet and Amazon in market capitalization rankings. Bitcoin now ranks as the fifth-largest asset globally. Analysts are observing signs of Bitcoin decoupling from traditional indices, with the next price target being $100,000. However, the $94,000 level may act as a resistance point, potentially leading to short-term pullbacks.

Bitcoin Magazine reports that Metaplanet, a Japanese publicly traded company, has increased its Bitcoin holdings with a recent purchase of ¥1.92 billion worth of the cryptocurrency. This acquisition brings Metaplanet's total Bitcoin holdings to 5,000 BTC, acquired at a total cost of $428.1 million. The company is pursuing a strategy similar to MicroStrategy, using its corporate treasury to accumulate and hold Bitcoin as a primary reserve asset.

Metaplanet's stated goal is to reach 10,000 BTC, suggesting further purchases are likely. This move could potentially influence other Japanese companies to consider Bitcoin as a treasury asset, given Japan's relatively progressive regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies. The company's stock price is expected to correlate with Bitcoin's price movements.

Bitcoin Magazine reports that BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) saw a substantial $643 million inflow, marking its highest daily inflow since January. This surge occurred as Bitcoin's price climbed above $92,000. This past surge was attributed to improving macroeconomic conditions and renewed interest from institutional investors.

The increased investment in Bitcoin ETFs like IBIT could potentially drive Bitcoin's price higher due to increased demand. This trend may also encourage more retail investors to participate in the cryptocurrency market, while also enhancing BlackRock's position in the cryptocurrency market.

CoinDesk reports that the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) found Americans lost $9.3 billion to crypto scams in 2024, a 66% increase from the previous year. Older adults (60+) were particularly vulnerable, losing over $2.8 billion. A significant portion of these scams involve 'pig butchering,' where scammers build relationships with victims before convincing them to invest in fraudulent crypto platforms. Scammers are also increasingly using AI to create sophisticated fake websites and deepfakes to endorse crypto projects.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has intensified its enforcement against crypto firms for unregistered securities offerings and fraud. This rise in crypto scams damages the cryptocurrency industry's reputation, potentially leading to stricter regulations. Law enforcement faces a growing burden to investigate these complex cases, while regulatory bodies are under pressure to provide clearer guidance and regulations for the crypto market.

Bitcoin Magazine reports that ruya, an Islamic bank based in the UAE, has launched Shari’ah-compliant cryptocurrency investment services, a global first. Customers can now invest in Bitcoin and other virtual assets via the bank's mobile application. This move aligns with the UAE's broader strategy of becoming a crypto hub. While the article notes that the specific mechanisms for ensuring Shari’ah compliance aren't detailed, this development could signal a shift in the Islamic finance industry's approach to cryptocurrency, potentially attracting a new demographic and prompting regulatory changes in other Muslim-majority countries.

The launch by ruya provides them with a first-mover advantage, but also presents the challenge of educating customers about cryptocurrency and maintaining Shari’ah compliance. It remains unclear which specific virtual assets, beyond Bitcoin, are being offered.

CoinDesk reports that Bitcoin long-term holders (LTHs) are accumulating more BTC than short-term holders (STHs) are selling, even with a significant number of coins held at a loss. This behavior suggests strong conviction in Bitcoin's long-term value, potentially reducing supply and driving prices higher. The presence of coins held at a loss also indicates potential for increased market volatility if prices decline, as STHs are more likely to sell during downturns. The accumulation by LTHs signals confidence in Bitcoin's future, potentially attracting new investors.

According to CoinDesk, Maximilian Crown, previously a co-founder at MoonPay, has been named the CEO of the TON Foundation. This appointment comes after Manuel Stotz, a venture capitalist and early supporter of TON, was appointed President of the TON Foundation's board. These leadership changes suggest a renewed focus on expanding the TON ecosystem and improving user accessibility.

Crown's background with MoonPay, a provider of fiat-to-crypto on-ramp solutions, indicates a potential emphasis on simplifying the process for new users to acquire Toncoin and engage with the TON network. The foundation is an independent entity responsible for the continued development and maintenance of the TON blockchain, which was initially conceived by the Telegram team.

CoinDesk reports that cryptocurrency is evolving from a speculative investment to a strategic asset integrated into institutional portfolios. This shift is driven by factors such as the SEC's approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024, which allowed broader market access, and increased participation from major financial institutions like BlackRock and Fidelity. These institutions are launching crypto-related investment products, signaling growing acceptance of crypto as an asset class.

While adoption is increasing, regulatory bodies worldwide are actively developing frameworks for cryptocurrency regulation, including the EU's MiCA regulation. This maturation of the market means financial advisors need to understand crypto to advise clients effectively, and retail investors have easier access through regulated products. However, the market remains susceptible to macroeconomic factors and traditional financial market trends, requiring careful risk management.

According to NewsBTC, Chainlink (LINK) has experienced substantial token outflows from exchanges recently, with over $120 million withdrawn in the last 30 days, suggesting investors are moving LINK into cold storage for long-term holding. This trend often precedes price increases if demand remains steady. LINK's price has recently broken through the $12.50 resistance level and currently trades around $14.45, a 14% increase in the past week.

Chainlink is also expanding its ecosystem through partnerships and integrations. Chainlink Labs recently joined the Digital Chamber's Executive Committee, and Chainlink tools will be supported on the Monad mainnet. Furthermore, Chainlink is collaborating with traditional financial institutions and venturing into real-world asset tokenization, indicating a focus on core development and broader adoption.

Decrypt reports that Bitcoin has risen above $85,000, even as the market anticipates volatility stemming from tariff news. Circle, the company behind the USDC stablecoin, has filed for an IPO targeting a $5 billion valuation, a figure that is currently under debate given mixed financial results. Recent developments also include increased institutional interest, with Metaplanet purchasing more Bitcoin and GameStop considering a significant investment.

Furthermore, Senator Cruz (current role not specified in source) introduced the FLARE Act to promote renewable Bitcoin mining, and the SEC is seeking a delay in its lawsuit against Gemini. BlackRock is expanding its crypto presence with a registered firm and a planned Bitcoin ETP in the UK, while Mastercard aims to integrate crypto into its cards. Eric Trump (current role not specified in source) stated that Bitcoin is the greatest store of value.

According to Decrypt, the "UNDER EXPOSED" podcast, hosted by TylerD (current role not specified), Deeze (current role not specified), Geebz (current role not specified), and Peter Jennings (current role not specified), provides coverage of significant macro news affecting the cryptocurrency and broader markets. The podcast focuses on emerging trends, trading strategies, and market narratives within the crypto and NFT sectors. Listeners can tune in every Tuesday for live discussions on YouTube and X, where the hosts share insights on market movements and their own buying and selling activities.

The podcast also delves into the interplay between macroeconomic factors like inflation and interest rates and their impact on crypto portfolios. Recent episodes likely discussed Bitcoin's price performance relative to other assets and the evolving trends in the NFT market, including the focus on utility-based NFTs and metaverse integrations. The hosts' trading roundtable segment offers listeners a glimpse into practical trading strategies and market outlooks.

Decrypt reports on the 'FOMO HOUR' podcast's discussion of the cryptocurrency market, highlighting a rally driven by a weaker dollar and rising gold prices. Within the last week, key developments include speculation that MicroStrategy may announce a $2 billion Bitcoin purchase, and Solana (SOL) overtaking Ethereum in market capitalization staked. Vitalik Buterin is also exploring replacing Ethereum's EVM with RISC-V. The ECB is still on track to launch a Digital Euro in October 2025.

Decrypt reports that Benchmark has issued a 'Buy' rating for Coinbase (COIN) stock, highlighting the company's significant revenue from stablecoins. Coinbase disclosed $910 million in stablecoin revenue for 2024, a 31% increase from the previous year, indicating a growing reliance on stablecoins as a revenue stream beyond traditional cryptocurrency trading. This diversification could bolster Coinbase's resilience to market volatility, although the company faces increasing regulatory scrutiny of stablecoins and competition among stablecoin issuers.

The growth in stablecoin market capitalization reflects increasing adoption for trading and decentralized finance. However, the article does not explicitly define what constitutes 'stablecoin revenue' for Coinbase, but it likely includes transaction and custody fees, and potentially revenue from staking activities. Benchmark's 'Buy' rating suggests they believe Coinbase's stock is undervalued, but investment ratings are subjective.

According to Decrypt, Sam Bankman-Fried, the former CEO of FTX, has been transferred to a low-security prison. This move follows his time at a facility reportedly nicknamed "Victimville," which is often used for white-collar criminals or those vulnerable to exploitation. Bankman-Fried is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence for fraud and conspiracy related to the collapse of FTX and is appealing the conviction. The FTX bankruptcy proceedings are ongoing, with efforts focused on recovering assets to repay creditors.

Decrypt reports that the Solana Foundation is shifting its validator strategy to foster greater self-sufficiency and decentralization. The new policy focuses on removing long-term validators who rely heavily on the Foundation's support and have minimal stake from external sources. This move addresses past concerns about Solana's centralization and aims to improve network stability by incentivizing validators to attract more independent stake. This shift could impact SOL token holders, with a more decentralized network potentially increasing confidence and demand, while a poorly managed transition could negatively affect SOL's price.

According to Decrypt, Shaquille O'Neal has settled the lawsuit against him stemming from his promotion of FTX, the cryptocurrency exchange that collapsed in November 2022 due to fraud and mismanagement. The terms of the settlement are confidential. O'Neal was one of several celebrities, including Tom Brady, Gisele Bündchen, and Steph Curry, who were sued for allegedly misleading investors by endorsing FTX. Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), the founder of FTX, was convicted on fraud charges in November 2023 and is awaiting sentencing.

The settlement likely shields O'Neal from further legal expenses and potential harm to his reputation. It could also influence the remaining lawsuits against other celebrity endorsers of FTX. The resolution adds to the funds available for compensating FTX victims, although the specific amount contributed by O'Neal remains unknown.

CoinDesk reports that a segment of traders is heavily investing in leveraged positions and options contracts, anticipating Bitcoin to hit $110,000 by June 2025. This bullish sentiment is driven by Bitcoin's increasing dominance in the cryptocurrency market, where its market capitalization is growing relative to other cryptocurrencies. The trend is further supported by escalating global trade tensions, prompting investors to seek Bitcoin as a safe haven asset.

The current environment presents both opportunities and risks. Bitcoin's potential rise could yield substantial gains for holders, but high volatility remains a concern. Meanwhile, altcoins may face underperformance as capital flows into Bitcoin. The increasing adoption of Bitcoin as a safe haven could also decouple it from traditional financial markets, potentially impacting its effectiveness as a hedge in certain economic scenarios.

CoinDesk reports that Ether.fi is transitioning from a decentralized staking protocol to a neobank, introducing cash cards for users in the U.S. This move allows users to spend, save, and earn crypto within a single ecosystem. This pivot signals a potential trend of DeFi platforms expanding into traditional finance services, which could lead to greater mainstream adoption but also increased regulatory scrutiny, particularly regarding compliance with banking regulations and consumer protection laws. Similar services are already offered by companies like Crypto.com with its Visa card program and Nexo with crypto-backed loans and credit cards.

According to CoinDesk, Polygon's new Aggregator program is designed to attract projects to its ecosystem and boost the adoption of its POL token. The program will allow successful projects to airdrop up to 15% of their native tokens to users who stake POL, the upgraded version of MATIC. This initiative is a key part of Polygon's 'Polygon 2.0' vision, which aims to create a network of interconnected Layer-2 chains powered by zero-knowledge (ZK) technology and unified liquidity via the AggLayer.

The Aggregator program aims to incentivize projects to connect to the AggLayer, Polygon's solution for unified liquidity and interoperability. By airdropping tokens to POL stakers, projects can tap into an existing user base and gain access to the benefits of the Polygon ecosystem. This is expected to strengthen the Polygon network by attracting high-quality projects and encouraging participation in POL staking.

The Block reports that RockawayX has secured $125 million for its second fund, intending to allocate a significant portion, up to 75%, to projects within the Solana ecosystem. This investment aims to fuel development and innovation on the Solana blockchain, potentially increasing the value of its native token, SOL. The fund signals continued VC confidence in cryptocurrency, despite market volatility. Samantha Bohbot, currently a Partner at RockawayX, shared details of the fund's allocation strategy.

According to The Block, KiloEX is offering compensation and staking boosts to its users after a price oracle vulnerability led to a $7 million loss. The exploit, which occurred within the past week, allowed an attacker to steal funds by manipulating price data on the platform. KiloEX's response aims to mitigate reputational damage and prevent users from leaving the platform.

Price oracle exploits are a recurring issue in decentralized finance (DeFi), highlighting the importance of robust security measures and reliable oracle services. KiloEX's ability to recover depends on the transparency and effectiveness of its compensation plan, as well as the implementation of security upgrades to prevent future attacks.

The Block reports that AT&T has entered into a commercial agreement with Helium, enabling AT&T subscribers to automatically connect to nearby Helium hotspots. According to Helium Network General Manager Mario Di Dio, this integration seeks to enhance connectivity for AT&T users, potentially improving network performance and reducing reliance on AT&T's cellular towers in areas with Helium hotspot coverage.

This partnership could significantly increase the usage and validation of the Helium network, potentially driving demand for Helium's native token (HNT) and attracting more hotspot hosts. It also represents a major validation of Nova Labs' vision for decentralized wireless networks and could pave the way for further partnerships with other telecommunications providers. However, the effectiveness of this integration depends on the density and reliability of Helium hotspots in specific areas.

Decrypt reports that the crypto market is proving resilient despite a significant downturn in the stock market. BlackRock is in discussions with the SEC regarding its Bitcoin ETF application, and the SEC is reviewing Fidelity's Ethereum ETF filing, signaling potential institutional investment. Meanwhile, $200 million in staked Solana (SOL) is unlocking, with a whale moving $37 million to Binance, potentially impacting SOL's price. The Ethereum Pectra upgrade has been postponed to May 7th. USDC is now the default currency for Binance Pay, and Circle has minted $534 million USDC across Ethereum and Solana. Justin Sun, founder of TRON, is again questioning the solvency of FUSD. In other news, CZ, former CEO of Binance, is now advising Kyrgyzstan on blockchain technology.

Decrypt reports that Bitcoin has rebounded above the $76.5k support level after briefly falling to $74.6k, outperforming traditional markets amidst a stock market downturn and rising bond yields. Recent developments include Ripple's $1.25 billion acquisition of broker Hidden Road, Circle minting 250 million USDC, and BlackRock adding Anchorage Digital as a custodian, signaling growing institutional interest. Other notable events include New York proposing blockchain for elections, Mastercard and Kraken collaborating on payments in Europe, and BitGo integrating the Lightning Network.

According to Decrypt, Richard Heart, the founder of HEX, is claiming victory after the SEC reportedly abandoned its fraud lawsuit against him. The lawsuit, initially filed in July 2023, alleged unregistered securities offerings related to HEX, PulseChain, and PulseX. Despite this claim, Heart remains on Europe's most wanted list, facing accusations of tax evasion and assault, which are unrelated to the SEC's securities fraud claims. It is important to note that the term 'abandoned' may be misleading, and it is unclear which specific claims the SEC has dropped, or if the lawsuit is still ongoing with a modified strategy.

While this development could potentially lead to a temporary price increase for HEX, PulseChain, and PulseX tokens, the ongoing legal battles create significant uncertainty for investors. Heart's legal troubles are far from over, and the European charges are a separate and serious matter. The SEC's decision to drop a claim, if true, could be interpreted as a setback for their enforcement efforts in the cryptocurrency space, or a strategic decision to focus on stronger aspects of the case.

Decrypt reports that the TRUMP meme coin, associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump, saw its value jump by 66% after news broke of an exclusive dinner invitation for top holders. The coin operates on the Solana blockchain, a popular platform for meme coins due to its low transaction costs. This surge highlights the volatile nature of meme coins, which are often driven by social media trends and celebrity endorsements. While Trump previously criticized cryptocurrency, he has recently embraced it, particularly NFTs and meme coins, as a tool for fundraising and engaging with supporters.

According to Decrypt, RockawayX, a part of Rockaway Capital group, has launched a $125 million fund to support early-stage crypto projects on the Solana network. This initiative arrives at a time when Solana is seeing a decline in user engagement compared to its peak in 2021 and early 2022. The fund aims to inject capital into new and innovative projects within the Solana ecosystem, potentially revitalizing the platform and attracting new users and developers.

The investment signals RockawayX's commitment to the Solana ecosystem and positions them as a significant investor in the space. The success of the fund will depend on identifying and supporting projects that can overcome current challenges and offer compelling value propositions, especially given the increased competition and the need for strong fundamentals in the current market.

According to CoinDesk, the ZORA token is struggling to gain traction as traders express reservations about its venture capital backing. This reluctance reflects a broader trend in the crypto market where 'fair launch' tokens, designed for equitable distribution, are favored over those perceived as benefiting wealthy funds. The concern revolves around the potential for VC-backed tokens to experience initial price surges followed by corrections, leaving retail traders as 'exit liquidity.' This situation highlights the challenges VC-backed projects face in gaining community trust and the increasing preference among retail traders for transparent, community-driven initiatives.

The Block reports that Securitize has introduced the Mantle Index Four fund, supported by Mantle, an Ethereum Layer-2 network. The fund aims to provide investors with diversified exposure to major crypto assets while also generating additional returns through DeFi staking strategies. Mantle's investment is part of its broader strategy to foster growth within its ecosystem. While the exact investment amount in the Mantle Index Four fund is not specified, Mantle has allocated $400 million for ecosystem development.

This move highlights a growing trend of traditional finance firms entering the digital asset space, as Securitize, known for tokenizing real-world assets (RWAs), expands its crypto investment product offerings. The inclusion of DeFi staking within an index fund also reflects the increasing interest in yield-generating opportunities within decentralized finance.

The Block reports that Theo, a company focused on building trading infrastructure for institutional cryptocurrency investors, has secured a total of $20 million in funding across two rounds. The recent capital raise was led by Hack VC, a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage blockchain investments, and Anthos Capital, known for investing in high-growth technology companies. This funding is expected to enable Theo to expand its platform capabilities, attract more institutional clients, and scale its operations within the competitive institutional crypto trading market.

According to CoinDesk, Celyn Armstrong, who served as General Counsel and Compliance Head at Portofino Technology for over three years, has departed from the firm. Based in London, Armstrong's role was crucial in navigating the complex regulatory landscape of the UK. Her exit is the latest in a series of senior executive departures from crypto firms, a trend attributed to increased regulatory burdens, reduced profitability following the 2022-2023 market downturn, and a shift in career priorities. This departure raises concerns about Portofino Technology's ability to maintain compliance and manage risk effectively, and may prompt increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies.

CoinDesk reports that Anonymous Labs is developing a blockchain-based ecosystem for the Peaky Blinders series. The initiative seeks to onboard traditional fans of the show into the cryptocurrency world through interactive storytelling and gameplay experiences. The specifics of the blockchain integration, such as the use of NFTs, a dedicated cryptocurrency, or DAO governance, remain unclear. The success of the project hinges on the quality of the Web3 integration and its appeal to a mainstream audience unfamiliar with crypto.

According to CoinDesk, Cantor Equity Partners is experiencing a significant surge in its share price, driven by speculation surrounding a potential merger with Twenty One Capital. Twenty One Capital is a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) actively seeking a target in the digital asset or fintech sector. Investors are reacting positively to the possibility of this merger, anticipating potential benefits from the deal. However, the SPAC market has cooled since 2020-2021, and successful deals now require strong target companies and favorable market conditions.

The outcome of this potential merger is being closely watched, as a successful deal could signal renewed interest in SPACs targeting the cryptocurrency sector, while a failure could further dampen enthusiasm. Bitcoin has experienced significant price fluctuations recently, and a successful merger involving a Bitcoin-related company could boost investor confidence in the cryptocurrency market.

According to CoinDesk, Theo has secured $20 million in funding to expand its platform, which provides retail investors with access to 'Wall Street-grade' crypto trading tools. Theo's platform enables users to deposit crypto assets into vaults that automatically execute pre-defined trading strategies. This development comes amid increasing interest in automated crypto trading platforms and institutional involvement in crypto derivatives. However, these platforms also face growing regulatory scrutiny regarding crypto vaults and yield products.

CoinDesk reports that Uniswap (UNI) is leading a decline in the CoinDesk 20 index, falling 3.8%. Bitcoin Cash (BCH) is also contributing to the downturn, dropping 3.0% since Wednesday. The decline in UNI may be linked to uncertainty surrounding the development of Uniswap v4, while the upcoming Bitcoin Cash halving event could be impacting BCH. The CoinDesk 20 is a market-capitalization weighted index of the 20 largest and most liquid digital assets, and its performance reflects the overall health of the broader cryptocurrency market.

According to NewsBTC, Dogecoin and Shiba Inu experienced significant price surges, exceeding 10%, driven by positive market sentiment following statements made earlier this week by Donald Trump, who currently is serving as US President, concerning potential reductions in tariffs on China. The market reacted favorably to Trump's comments, with Bitcoin's price increasing substantially, which in turn boosted the values of Dogecoin and Shiba Inu. This surge is seen as a partial recovery from losses incurred since January 2025, when the crypto market faced downturns partly attributed to Trump's past tariff policies.

The price jumps were accompanied by substantial increases in trading volume for both meme coins. Dogecoin's daily trading volume more than doubled, exceeding $2 billion, while Shiba Inu's volume rose by 88% to over $315 million. The market anticipates continued positive momentum for cryptocurrencies, including Dogecoin and Shiba Inu, as long as the perceived easing of trade tensions continues during the remaining period of Trump's 90-day tariff freeze window, which was announced in early April 2025.

The Daily Hodl reports that John D’Agostino, Coinbase's head of institutional strategy, indicated in a recent CNBC interview that investors are considering Bitcoin after gold's 2024 surge. D'Agostino, still holding his position at Coinbase, believes Bitcoin is becoming an attractive asset for those seeking an inflation hedge similar to gold. This comes amid ongoing debate about Bitcoin's effectiveness as an inflation hedge, with its price volatility being a key point of contention.

This potential shift in investor focus could benefit Coinbase, a major platform for institutional cryptocurrency trading, by attracting more institutional clients. While a move from gold to Bitcoin could moderate gold demand, the overall impact depends on the scale of the shift and continued demand from other sources.

According to The Daily Hodl, Binance Blockchain Week is scheduled to take place in Dubai from December 3rd to 4th, 2025. This marks the seventh edition of the event, which is hosted by Binance, a major global blockchain ecosystem that operates the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and user base. The return of Binance Blockchain Week to Dubai highlights the city's increasing importance as a hub for the cryptocurrency industry, attracting international attention and investment.

Dubai has been actively working to establish itself as a leading crypto center through regulatory frameworks and initiatives designed to attract crypto businesses. Binance, while facing regulatory challenges in other parts of the world, aims to strengthen its presence in the region through this event. Binance Blockchain Week serves as a platform for industry leaders to discuss trends and innovations in the cryptocurrency space.

Decrypt reports on a week of fluctuating fortunes in the crypto space. Bitcoin recovered from a dip to $78,000, while a memecoin, FARTCOIN, is approaching a $900 million market cap. In regulatory news, a bill repealing an IRS rule targeting DeFi was signed, and the SEC issued new guidance for crypto offerings. Several states are also exploring crypto adoption, with North Carolina considering tax payments in crypto and Arizona passing a bill protecting Bitcoin mining rights.

Institutional interest is growing, as evidenced by VanEck's filing for an AVAX ETF with Nasdaq. However, developer activity in the crypto space is reportedly at its lowest since 2018, and Synthetix's sUSD stablecoin briefly depegged. OKX is collaborating with financial giants on collateral mirroring, and Layer 1 solutions like HYPE are leading a market rebound. VIRTUAL and ONDO may be listed on Binance.

According to Decrypt, Fasset, under the leadership of CEO Mohammad Raafi Hossain, aims to broaden financial access, particularly in emerging markets, via tokenized assets. The company has recently introduced Own, an Ethereum Layer 2 solution, to streamline the creation, management, and distribution of tokenized RWAs. Ethereum Layer 2 protocols enhance transaction speeds and lower costs by processing transactions off-chain before settling them on the main Ethereum network.

This initiative aligns with the growing trend of tokenizing real-world assets, which could provide emerging market investors with access to previously unavailable investment opportunities. The rise of such platforms may also prompt traditional financial institutions to adapt to blockchain technology. However, the regulatory landscape for tokenized RWAs remains uncertain.

According to Decrypt, a new malware campaign is actively targeting cryptocurrency wallets through deceptive tactics. The campaign utilizes fake PDF converter software to install malicious PowerShell commands onto victims' devices. These commands then execute malware, potentially granting attackers control over the device and access to cryptocurrency wallets. This development is part of a larger trend of increasing malware attacks targeting the cryptocurrency sector, which has seen a rise in social engineering tactics used to trick users into downloading malicious software in the past year.

According to Decrypt, ZKsync, an Ethereum Layer-2 scaling solution, has resolved the recent exploit of its airdrop contract. The hacker, who drained millions in cryptocurrency, accepted a bounty and returned nearly $5 million in stolen funds. The exploit targeted the smart contract responsible for distributing the ZKsync (ZK) tokens to early users and contributors. ZKsync has confirmed the return of the funds and considers the matter resolved, although a final report providing a detailed analysis of the incident is forthcoming.

This incident highlights the security challenges inherent in Layer-2 solutions, even with bounty programs in place. While the return of funds is positive for ZKsync users and the broader Ethereum Layer-2 ecosystem, it also underscores the critical importance of rigorous smart contract auditing and proactive security measures to prevent future exploits. The successful resolution may boost confidence in Layer-2 security, but ongoing vigilance is crucial.

According to CoinDesk, Bitcoin is solidifying its position as a safe haven asset as of April 24, 2025, driven by escalating global trade tensions between major economic powers. This perception is boosting Bitcoin's dominance in the cryptocurrency market, while altcoins are experiencing increased volatility. The shift towards Bitcoin as a safe haven could potentially erode confidence in traditional financial markets if trade tensions persist, leading to a possible reallocation of capital towards cryptocurrencies.

According to CoinDesk, Binance is launching 'Fund Accounts' designed for cryptocurrency asset managers. These accounts will function as omnibus accounts, allowing managers to pool assets from multiple investors into a single account, mirroring practices common in traditional finance (TradFi). This offering is intended to simplify portfolio management for institutional investors and potentially lower operational costs. However, the move is likely to attract regulatory scrutiny, particularly from the SEC, regarding investor protection and compliance with securities laws. The success of 'Fund Accounts' will depend on Binance's ability to ensure security, reliability, and adherence to regulatory requirements.

CoinDesk reports that Galaxy Digital is deepening its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) through an expanded agreement with CoreWeave. This move has been positively received by investors, leading to an 8% surge in Galaxy Digital's share price, which is now 60% above its April lows. Galaxy Digital, traditionally focused on cryptocurrency, is actively diversifying its revenue streams by investing in AI and HPC, aiming to reduce reliance on the volatile crypto market. This diversification strategy reflects a broader trend of crypto companies seeking alternative growth opportunities in sectors like AI.

The Block reports that Alex Mashinsky, former CEO of the now-bankrupt Celsius Network, will be sentenced on May 8, 2025, after pleading guilty to fraud and manipulation charges. Mashinsky potentially faces a maximum sentence of 20 years. His sentencing follows a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into Celsius' operations, which revealed that the company misled investors about its financial health and risk management practices.

The sentencing's outcome could influence the ongoing Celsius bankruptcy proceedings, impacting the potential recovery for creditors. This case also serves as a warning to the cryptocurrency industry, highlighting the legal repercussions of fraudulent behavior and the need for increased regulatory scrutiny for crypto lending platforms.

The Block reports that Revolut's 2024 revenue growth was significantly boosted by its wealth division, which includes cryptocurrency trading, experiencing a 298% increase to $647 million. This surge in crypto trading activity was a key factor in Revolut achieving a record annual profit of $1.4 billion. This success positions Revolut as a major player in the cryptocurrency space, but also exposes it to potential risks associated with regulatory changes and market volatility.

The increased profitability for Revolut could lead to improvements in its platform, such as lower fees and a wider range of crypto assets. However, it also increases the risk of cyberattacks. The success of Revolut suggests that traditional financial institutions integrating crypto services can attract a substantial user base and generate significant revenue, potentially encouraging other fintech companies to follow suit.

The Block reports that Zora, an onchain social media platform built on the Ethereum Layer-2 network Base, launched its token airdrop without prior announcement, leading to user confusion. Users are required to manually claim their tokens, a process that contrasts with automatic distribution and could result in many missing out. This situation highlights the challenges associated with executing airdrops effectively, potentially impacting Zora's reputation and raising concerns about fairness and accessibility. The Base network, which Zora utilizes, has experienced growth recently.

The Block reports that despite PSG and FC Barcelona's progress in the Champions League as of April 15th, their fan tokens have seen negligible increases of just 0.5% and 0.6% respectively. This lack of a substantial rally underscores the limited correlation between team performance and fan token value. Broader cryptocurrency market volatility, limited utility of fan tokens, and increased regulatory scrutiny are contributing factors to their price stagnation. This suggests that relying solely on team success for token appreciation is a risky strategy for holders.

CoinDesk reports that Bitcoin is being watched by traders, specifically the $95,000 mark, as a key level to surpass, potentially signaling a bullish trend. The analysis comes as gold's price increase has stalled. Wednesday's crypto rally experienced a setback, coinciding with Bessent's reiteration of challenges in reaching a deal with China, impacting market sentiment.

Several factors influence Bitcoin's trajectory, including the performance of Bitcoin ETFs, macroeconomic conditions (particularly interest rate decisions), and the evolving regulatory landscape in the US and globally. A successful break above $95,000 could attract further investment, while failure to do so might lead to consolidation or a price correction. Bitcoin's rise as a store of value could also draw investment away from gold.

According to CoinDesk, Russia's Finance Ministry is moving forward with plans to establish a cryptocurrency exchange for 'highly-qualified' investors. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, who currently holds that position, has stated that the initiative seeks to legalize crypto assets and bring crypto operations into a regulated environment. This development follows past disagreements between the Finance Ministry and the Central Bank of Russia, with the Ministry advocating for regulated crypto activity, a stance that appears to be gaining traction.

The move has potential implications for the Russian economy, offering a possible avenue for increased tax revenue and capital inflows. However, the definition of 'highly-qualified' investor remains unspecified, a detail crucial for determining the exchange's accessibility and overall impact. It is also unclear whether the exchange will encompass only trading or extend to other crypto-related activities like mining and custody.

The Block reports that Benchmark is targeting a 33% gain for Coinbase stock, driven by the expectation that new digital asset legislation in the U.S. will provide much-needed regulatory clarity. Mark Palmer, currently a Senior Research Analyst at Benchmark, anticipates that this clarity will unlock a new surge in crypto demand.

This projection is based on the belief that the crypto industry is approaching the end of a period of regulatory ambiguity, which has previously stifled institutional investment. The potential for defined legal frameworks could foster innovation and growth, attracting both institutional and retail investors to the crypto market. However, the actual impact will depend on the specifics of the regulations and Coinbase's ability to adapt to the evolving landscape.

According to The Block, Donald Trump, who is currently campaigning for president, is scheduled to host a gala for the top 220 holders of the $TRUMP memecoin at his private golf club in Washington, D.C. This event underscores Trump's recent shift towards embracing cryptocurrency, particularly as a means of fundraising and appealing to younger voters. The $TRUMP memecoin, launched on the Solana blockchain, has seen significant volatility and is driven by social media sentiment, though it is not officially endorsed by Trump's campaign.

The event raises questions about the increasing intersection of cryptocurrency culture and political campaigns, potentially attracting new donors while also risking alienating traditional voters. It could also draw increased regulatory scrutiny to the use of cryptocurrencies in political fundraising, prompting calls for greater transparency and stricter rules.

The Block reports that Metaplanet has acquired another 145 BTC at an average price of $93,327 per bitcoin, bringing its total holdings to 5,000 BTC. This latest purchase, valued at $13.6 million, highlights the growing trend of companies adding Bitcoin to their balance sheets. This strategy, pioneered in the past by firms like MicroStrategy, is part of a broader discussion about Bitcoin's potential as a treasury reserve asset, offering diversification and a hedge against inflation, though it also introduces volatility and regulatory considerations.

Metaplanet's continued accumulation suggests strong confidence in Bitcoin's long-term value, but also exposes the company to price fluctuations and potential regulatory scrutiny. The regulatory environment for corporate Bitcoin holdings remains uncertain, with varying accounting standards and tax implications across jurisdictions. Metaplanet's actions, along with those of other companies, could encourage wider adoption of Bitcoin as a corporate asset, although the high purchase price may deter some.

The Block reports that ZKsync reclaimed $5 million in hacked tokens by offering the attacker a 10% bounty for their return. This incident highlights both the potential vulnerabilities in Layer-2 scaling solutions and the increasing use of bounty programs in the cryptocurrency space. The successful recovery mitigates immediate financial losses for ZKsync but also underscores the need for enhanced security measures to prevent future exploits.

The recovery may prompt cryptocurrency exchanges to review their listing and security procedures for ZKsync-related tokens. Other crypto projects may also re-evaluate their security protocols and consider implementing similar bounty programs. However, the nature of the 'hack' remains unspecified, requiring further investigation to determine the exact vulnerability exploited.

Decrypt reports that the cryptocurrency market is currently facing turbulence driven by anxieties surrounding escalating trade wars, causing a significant rise in Bitcoin's dominance to a four-year high and triggering substantial liquidations. The FUSD stablecoin has also depegged, prompting intervention from Justin Sun amidst concerns about the solvency of the Trust and issues with TUSD reserves.

Despite these challenges, institutional interest in crypto persists, evidenced by the introduction of tokenized collateral platforms, no-fee crypto IRAs, state-level initiatives in Arizona and Alabama, Nigeria recognizing crypto as securities, and the launch of new Bitcoin-focused ETFs. Furthermore, MetaMask has improved user experience by removing native gas token requirements and integrating Revoke.

Decrypt reports that cryptocurrency markets faced a downturn in the last week, mirroring a slump in global stock markets. Bitcoin flashed a 'death cross,' a technical indicator suggesting a sustained bear market, while Ethereum dropped to its lowest level since December 2022, falling below its 2017 peak. A whale's $106 million ETH position was liquidated on Maker. In other news, Bitcoin's hashrate topped 1 Zetahash, Tether is planning a new SEC-friendly stablecoin, and Grayscale has filed an S-1 for a Solana ETF. Circle is reportedly delaying its IPO process, and Binance has formed a partnership with Worldpay.

Decrypt reports that Bitcoin has recovered to $79,000, holding the $76.5k support level after experiencing volatility due to fabricated news. Standard Chartered analysts suggest Bitcoin acts as a hedge against potential tariffs, referencing renewed threats from former President Donald Trump against China. In other market activity, the ETH/BTC Relative Strength Index (RSI) has hit an oversold level, and Solana DEX volume is down 85% since January. Teucrim has launched a levered XRP ETF, while BCG forecasts $19 trillion in tokenized assets by 2033. Galaxy Digital is set to debut on the Nasdaq in May 2025.

According to Decrypt, the UNDER EXPOSED podcast discussed 'Tariff Mania,' focusing on how tariffs and global trade tensions affect financial markets, including potential impacts on cryptocurrency due to economic uncertainty. The hosts, TylerD, Deeze, Geebz, and Peter Jennings, also explored the possibility of a new reserve currency to rival the US dollar, considering the increasing interest in alternative financial systems and the potential role of cryptocurrencies. Finally, the show analyzed trends in cryptocurrency venture capital (VC) funding, a key indicator of the crypto industry's health, noting a recent cooling off but continued investment in sectors like AI and infrastructure.

Decrypt reports that the cryptocurrency market could benefit from a 90-day pause in tariffs between the US and China, potentially driving investment in Bitcoin as a hedge against economic uncertainty. The confirmation of a pro-crypto individual, Atkins, as SEC Chairman signals a possible shift towards a more favorable regulatory environment in the US. Recent developments include countries like China and Russia exploring settling trades in BTC, the SEC approving options trading on ETH ETFs, and 21Shares filing for a DOGE ETF. Bitwise maintains a $200k BTC prediction, reflecting strong bullish sentiment.

According to Decrypt, Jay Clayton has taken a leadership position at the SDNY, Wall Street’s most powerful prosecutor's office. Clayton's appointment is notable due to his history as SEC Chairman (2017-2020), during which the SEC significantly increased enforcement actions against cryptocurrency companies, particularly regarding unregistered securities offerings. One prominent case was the SEC's lawsuit against Ripple Labs, alleging that XRP was an unregistered security; this case remains ongoing as of 2025-04-24.

Clayton's return to government service raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest, given his past role and subsequent position at One River Asset Management, a hedge fund focused on digital assets. His experience could lead to increased scrutiny of crypto companies by the SDNY and influence the approach to ongoing crypto litigation. His ties to traditional finance may also result in a more cautious approach to crypto adoption within established financial institutions.

Decrypt reports that Bitcoin experienced a significant price surge, exceeding $94,000 within the past seven days, leading to a short liquidation cascade totaling over $300 million. This event was driven by traders scrambling to cover their short positions, which are bets that the price of Bitcoin would decrease. The forced buying to cover these positions further propelled the price upwards, creating a feedback loop of liquidations and price increases.

The implications of this event are significant for various stakeholders. Short sellers faced substantial losses, while Bitcoin holders potentially benefited from the short-term price appreciation. Cryptocurrency exchanges saw increased trading volume, but also faced the risk of system overload. New investors are cautioned to understand the risks associated with leveraged trading and short selling in such a volatile market.

Decrypt reports that Twenty One, a Bitcoin-centric company, is being formed via a SPAC merger with financial backing from Tether, Bitfinex, Cantor Fitzgerald, and SoftBank. The company will have a $3.9 billion treasury. This move represents a significant investment in the Bitcoin space and could potentially drive up demand and legitimize Bitcoin as an asset class. However, the venture also carries risks, including increased regulatory scrutiny for Tether and Bitfinex, potential volatility for SPAC investors, and exposure to the inherent risks of the cryptocurrency market for all involved parties. Cantor Fitzgerald's current CEO is Howard Lutnick. SoftBank's involvement signals continued interest in cryptocurrency despite past losses.

Decrypt reports that Bitcoin has rebounded to $93,000, marking a 5% increase, while Ethereum is up 11% at $1810, and Solana is up 9% at $152. This surge is attributed to Donald Trump's softened stance on cryptocurrency and comments regarding Jerome Powell, as well as substantial inflows into both Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs. The market rally has led to $500 million in liquidations. Bitcoin has surpassed Alphabet to become the fifth-largest asset, with Standard Chartered suggesting it's being used to hedge systemic risk.

Recent developments also include a hacker attack on the XRP ledger, a potential partnership between Trump Media and CryptoCom on ETFs, and a $3 billion Bitcoin vehicle formed by Cantor, Softbank, and Tether. DeFi Development Corp has invested $11.5 million in SOL. The European Central Bank (ECB) has expressed concerns about the risks posed by US support for crypto to Europe. Tether minted an additional $1 billion USDT, and ING is the latest traditional finance firm developing a stablecoin. The Prime Minister of Malaysia recently met with Changpeng Zhao (CZ), former CEO of Binance, to discuss cryptocurrency.

According to Decrypt, Ubisoft is expanding its blockchain gaming initiatives with 'Might & Magic: Fates,' a new card game built on Ethereum and launching later in 2025. The game utilizes Immutable X, a Layer-2 scaling solution designed for NFTs, to facilitate faster and cheaper transactions for in-game assets. This collaboration aims to provide players with verifiable ownership of their cards as NFTs, enabling trading and potential cross-platform use.

This move signifies a continued exploration of blockchain technology by Ubisoft, building on past experiments with NFTs. For Immutable, the partnership validates its platform and could attract more developers to its ecosystem. The game's success could encourage further blockchain integration within the gaming industry, while also requiring players to engage with blockchain technology for card ownership.

Decrypt reports that American investors injected almost $1 billion into Bitcoin ETFs on Tuesday, representing the highest daily inflow since the launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024. This surge in investment coincided with a significant rise in the price of Bitcoin. The January ETF launches were a landmark event, opening Bitcoin investment to a broader range of investors through traditional brokerage accounts. While Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) has seen outflows since converting to an ETF, the overall net inflows into Bitcoin ETFs indicate strong renewed demand.

Decrypt reports that Riot Platforms has obtained a $100 million credit facility from Coinbase's lending arm, Coinbase Credit, using its existing Bitcoin treasury as collateral. This arrangement provides Riot Platforms with increased financial flexibility to manage operations and potentially expand mining capacity, while also strengthening Coinbase's position in the institutional crypto lending market. The deal underscores the increasing integration of Bitcoin into traditional financial mechanisms, with miners using their holdings to secure external financing.

According to Decrypt, elderly Americans suffered significant financial losses due to cryptocurrency scams in 2024, amounting to nearly $3 billion, despite representing a smaller portion of the overall population. The FBI has highlighted a surge in crypto ATM scams, where victims are instructed to deposit cash into these machines to purchase cryptocurrency, which is then transferred to the scammer. This method circumvents traditional banking security measures, making it particularly effective against vulnerable seniors. Government agencies are launching initiatives to educate seniors and combat elder fraud.

According to Decrypt, the SEC is holding a roundtable tomorrow to discuss the future of crypto custody, bringing together industry voices to address the challenges of safeguarding digital assets. The discussion is expected to center on key issues such as the SEC's Staff Accounting Bulletin 121 (SAB 121), issued in 2022, which requires entities holding crypto assets for customers to record them as liabilities, and the ongoing debate over the definition of 'qualified custodian' for crypto assets. These deliberations will significantly impact crypto exchanges, institutional investors, retail investors, and traditional financial institutions, influencing their participation in the crypto market.

The roundtable aims to gather diverse perspectives from industry participants, legal experts, and regulators to inform the SEC's future policy decisions on crypto custody. The outcome of these discussions could lead to stricter custody rules, increased compliance costs for exchanges, and potentially limit the services they can offer. Conversely, clearer guidelines could provide regulatory certainty and foster greater institutional adoption, while also aiming to protect retail investors from fraud and loss of their digital assets.

According to Bitcoin Magazine, secp256k1lab is a new Python library designed to streamline the development process for cryptographic protocols related to Bitcoin Improvement Proposals (BIPs). The library offers a standardized approach to secp256k1, the elliptic curve used in Bitcoin's digital signatures.

While labeled 'insecure,' secp256k1lab is intended for testing, prototyping, and educational purposes, allowing developers to experiment with cryptographic protocols without the complexities of production-ready security measures. This approach aims to reduce errors in BIP implementation and contribute to a more secure Bitcoin ecosystem indirectly.

According to CoinDesk, Janover is actively purchasing locked Solana (SOL) tokens at discounted rates, boosting its SOL holdings to $48 million. This strategy aligns with Janover's shift towards a crypto-focused business model, leveraging the resurgence of Solana's DeFi ecosystem and increasing institutional interest in SOL. The acquisition of locked tokens, which are less liquid due to vesting schedules or staking commitments, allows Janover to acquire SOL at prices below the current market value.

This investment carries potential balance sheet implications for Janover, with gains tied to SOL's price appreciation and risks associated with market volatility. The increased capital flowing into the Solana ecosystem could also benefit DeFi developers on the platform, fostering innovation and growth.

According to CoinDesk, a Coinbase executive suggests that institutional investors are the primary drivers behind Bitcoin's April rally, with retail investors seemingly reducing their exposure to Bitcoin ETFs. This shift indicates a potential change in market dynamics, where larger, more patient pools of capital are influencing Bitcoin's price. The trend contrasts with the initial enthusiasm surrounding spot Bitcoin ETFs after their launch in January 2024, which saw fluctuating inflows and outflows reflecting volatile retail investor sentiment.

This development has implications for various stakeholders. Institutional involvement could lead to greater price stability and reduced volatility for Bitcoin, while Coinbase may need to adapt its services to cater more to institutional clients. For retail investors, it raises questions about their investment strategies and whether they are missing out on potential long-term gains.

According to The Block, Ubisoft is collaborating with Immutable to release "Might and Magic Fates," a mobile title, in early 2026. This partnership signifies Ubisoft's ongoing interest in blockchain gaming, following past experiments with NFTs in games like Ghost Recon Breakpoint. Immutable, known for its Immutable X layer-2 scaling solution on Ethereum, aims to facilitate the integration of blockchain elements into the game. The specific blockchain features in "Might and Magic Fates" are yet to be detailed, but are likely to involve NFTs for in-game assets. The success of this venture could influence the broader adoption of Web3 gaming.

According to The Block, Bitcoin's recent rally to $94,000 has pushed the overall cryptocurrency market capitalization past the $3 trillion mark. This milestone reflects the combined value of all cryptocurrencies, with Bitcoin as the dominant player. However, analysts are expressing concern about potentially overheating funding rates in perpetual futures contracts, indicating excessive bullish sentiment, and high open interest, which suggests a large number of outstanding derivative contracts. These factors could make the market vulnerable to a significant pullback or correction.

Historically, Bitcoin has experienced substantial corrections after similar rallies, often triggered by profit-taking or other market factors. The current conditions suggest that both retail and institutional investors should exercise caution, and DeFi platforms could face increased volatility and potential liquidations if a correction occurs.

The Block reports that prosecutors are requesting an eight-year prison sentence for Avi Eisenberg, who exploited a vulnerability in the Mango Markets protocol. Eisenberg manipulated the price of MNGO perpetual futures, enabling him to borrow and withdraw approximately $110 million in cryptocurrency in the past. He later returned $67 million after negotiations with the Mango DAO. Eisenberg's defense centers on the argument that his actions, while aggressive, were within the protocol's design and therefore not illegal.

The case highlights the security risks inherent in DeFi protocols and could set a legal precedent for how exploits are treated. The Mango DAO had previously reached a settlement with Eisenberg, but this did not prevent the U.S. government from pursuing criminal charges. The core dispute revolves around whether Eisenberg's actions constituted illegal manipulation and fraud, regardless of whether they were technically within the protocol's rules.

CoinDesk reports that Floki Inu, a meme coin inspired by Elon Musk's Shiba Inu dog, is collaborating with Rice Robotics to tokenize AI data. Rice Robotics, which counts Nvidia and Softbank among its clients, will work with Floki to explore new revenue streams and improve data accessibility through tokenization. This partnership aligns with Floki's marketing-focused strategy and the broader trend of meme coins seeking real-world utility. The success of this project could increase the value of the FLOKI token and encourage further convergence of cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence.

According to NewsBTC, Bitcoin has recovered from its early April correction, surging over 10% this week to surpass $90,000. This recovery has led to divided opinions among analysts, with some suggesting a bullish rally while others warn of a potential rejection at key resistance levels. Analyst Daan Crypto Trades notes the breakout above the Daily 200MA/EMA, while Ali Martinez highlights the significance of the $93,500 level, which could flip from support to resistance.

Analysts are closely watching Bitcoin's weekly close, with Crypto Jelle calling $93,500 the "last line of defense" for bears. Rekt Capital draws parallels to Bitcoin's mid-2021 price action, suggesting a potential breakout if the cryptocurrency stabilizes above $93,500. As of April 24, 2025, Bitcoin is trading near $93,459, marking an 8.2% increase for the month.

The Block reports that Infrared, a liquid staking protocol built on the Berachain blockchain, has introduced a points program. This program is designed to reward early users and incentivize engagement before the anticipated launch of the Infrared token in the third quarter of 2025 (July-September). Raito Bear, pseudonymous co-founder and CEO of Infrared, confirmed that these points will be convertible into the Infrared token upon its launch.

The introduction of Infrared and its liquid staking protocol is expected to boost activity within the Berachain ecosystem and adds another competitor to the growing liquid staking market. Liquid staking derivatives (LSDs) have gained popularity in decentralized finance (DeFi) by allowing users to stake tokens while maintaining liquidity through a representative token.

According to The Block, Cantor Fitzgerald, SoftBank, Bitfinex, and Tether are collaborating on a new Bitcoin venture called 'Twenty One,' with a multi-billion dollar investment. The initiative is described as 'Strategy-esque,' indicating a long-term Bitcoin accumulation strategy mirroring that of Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy). Cantor Fitzgerald's involvement reflects its increasing engagement with cryptocurrency, while SoftBank's participation suggests a renewed interest in the sector.

The involvement of Bitfinex and Tether, major players in cryptocurrency trading and stablecoins, raises potential regulatory considerations. This venture could impact Bitcoin's price, drive institutional adoption, and increase scrutiny on Tether's operations and reserves. Cantor Fitzgerald is currently offering trading and custody services to institutional clients. SoftBank's Vision Fund has invested in crypto-related companies in the past.

The Block reports that Mythical Games will release "FIFA Rivals," a crypto-integrated FIFA video game, on mobile platforms in June. This launch is a key moment for the Web3 gaming sector, as it could influence the broader adoption of blockchain technology in gaming. "FIFA Rivals" is separate from Electronic Arts' (EA) "EA Sports FC," which was created after EA ended its long-standing partnership with FIFA. The success of "FIFA Rivals" will depend on its appeal to both traditional FIFA fans and crypto enthusiasts, and its ability to demonstrate the value of blockchain integration.

According to The Block, cryptocurrency scams targeting Americans over 60 resulted in losses of nearly $3 billion in 2024. The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received complaints involving cryptocurrency scams totaling $9.3 billion in losses, a 66% increase from the previous year. These scams often involve tactics like 'pig butchering,' where fraudsters build relationships with victims before convincing them to invest in fake crypto platforms, and increased use of social media and messaging apps to reach potential victims.

The rise in crypto scams has significant implications for senior citizens, who face financial insecurity and emotional distress. Law enforcement agencies are struggling to keep pace with the evolving tactics of scammers, and the cryptocurrency industry's reputation is being damaged, undermining public trust in digital assets. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is increasing enforcement actions against crypto firms for unregistered securities offerings, fraud, and market manipulation.

According to The Block, Russia is planning to launch a cryptocurrency exchange targeted at 'qualified investors'. This initiative follows statements made last month by a Russian official indicating that sanctions would not entirely block Russian access to the crypto market. The exchange's launch is occurring amidst ongoing debates about the legal status of cryptocurrencies in Russia, which initially considered a ban before shifting towards regulation and potential use in international trade to circumvent Western sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine.

The term 'qualified investor' typically refers to individuals or entities meeting specific financial thresholds, granting them access to higher-risk investment opportunities. The specific criteria for qualified investors in Russia will be determined by Russian regulatory bodies. The exchange could provide a new avenue for capital flows, potentially mitigating the impact of sanctions, but also risks further scrutiny and countermeasures from Western governments.

The Block reports that Coinbase is expanding its US presence by opening a Charlotte office and hiring 130 individuals. This expansion occurs after previous layoffs at Coinbase and coincides with Donald Trump's increasingly pro-cryptocurrency stance. CEO Brian Armstrong previously indicated a desire to hire 1,000 domestic employees, particularly if a Trump administration were in place. Charlotte's growing status as a technology hub makes it a strategic location for Coinbase's new office.

The expansion signals Coinbase's confidence in the US market and could be interpreted as a strategic move to benefit from a potentially more relaxed regulatory environment for cryptocurrency under a Trump presidency. This investment is expected to boost Charlotte's economy and attract further tech talent to the area. However, it's important to note that while the expansion aligns with Armstrong's past statements, it is not explicitly confirmed as a strategy solely dependent on a Trump administration.

According to The Block, SOL Strategies' stock experienced a 25% increase following a $500 million capital raise earmarked for purchasing more Solana. This development reflects investor confidence in SOL Strategies' investment strategy. In related news, DeFi Development Corporation (DDC) announced on Wednesday that it has expanded its SOL holdings to 317,273 after acquiring 65,305 SOL.

These actions occur amidst ongoing concerns about network congestion on the Solana blockchain, which has led to transaction failures and slower processing times. Despite these challenges, institutional interest in Solana remains strong, driven by its potential in DeFi and NFTs. DDC's strategy of accumulating a large SOL position suggests a desire to participate in staking, governance, or other network activities, potentially giving them significant influence within the Solana ecosystem.

The Block reports that BlackRock's IBIT Bitcoin ETF saw substantial investor interest, recording $643 million in net inflows yesterday. This marks the highest single-day inflow for IBIT in 13 weeks. The surge in IBIT contributed to a total of $936 million flowing into all US-based Bitcoin ETFs.

This development highlights BlackRock's strong position in the Bitcoin ETF market and could potentially drive Bitcoin's price upward due to increased demand. The success of IBIT may also intensify competition among other Bitcoin ETF providers.

Bitcoin Magazine reports that U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs saw significant investment, with inflows reaching $912 million in a single day, marking the highest level since the initial surge following SEC approval in January 2024. ARK's fund reportedly led these inflows. This influx of capital has driven Bitcoin's price above $94,000. The SEC's approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024 allowed easier access to Bitcoin exposure through traditional investment vehicles.

Bitcoin halving events, like the one on April 20, 2024, historically reduce the rate at which new bitcoins are created, often leading to price increases. Increasing institutional interest in Bitcoin, driven by factors like inflation concerns, has also contributed to the demand for Bitcoin ETFs and the overall price surge.

According to Bitcoin Magazine, the University of the Hespérides has introduced a pioneering Master’s program specifically focused on Bitcoin, a first-of-its-kind Spanish-language offering. The program is designed to provide comprehensive training in the economic, legal, and technological aspects of Bitcoin.

This initiative positions the University of Hespérides as a leader in Bitcoin education within the Spanish-speaking world. It also aims to address the growing demand for Bitcoin expertise, particularly in Latin America and Spain, where Bitcoin adoption is increasing. The program is expected to create new job opportunities for graduates with specialized Bitcoin knowledge.

According to CoinDesk, Maple Finance CEO Sidney Powell spoke at Consensus 2025 about the company's efforts to build a 'DeFi-Bond Bridge,' tokenizing traditional bonds for use within the DeFi ecosystem. Powell highlighted Maple Finance's expansion into Asian and Latin American markets, driven by high cryptocurrency adoption rates in those regions. The platform is also increasing its focus on Bitcoin yield products, aiming to provide investors with opportunities to earn returns on their Bitcoin holdings through lending and other strategies. This comes amid growing institutional interest in DeFi and fluctuating growth in the DeFi lending market.

CoinDesk reports that Bitcoin has breached the Ichimoku Cloud, a technical indicator, suggesting a potential upward price trend. This bullish signal comes as spot Bitcoin ETFs have increased institutional investment. However, major altcoins have not mirrored this performance, leading to speculation about when an 'altcoin season' might begin. The Ichimoku Cloud is used to identify support and resistance levels, trend direction, and momentum. While the breakout provides a potential entry point for long positions on Bitcoin, traders are advised to seek confirmation from other indicators to mitigate risk. The lagging performance of altcoins suggests investors should carefully evaluate individual altcoin projects.

According to CoinDesk, major cryptocurrencies are experiencing a downturn, with Dogecoin leading the losses. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP are also slumping as investors engage in profit-taking. This decline occurs amidst ongoing tariff wars impacting bond yields and U.S. equities. While Bitcoin has been increasingly viewed as a safe-haven asset, mirroring gold's price resilience, its current slump suggests it's not entirely immune to broader market sentiment and economic pressures.

The volatility of Dogecoin, known for its meme-driven price swings, makes it particularly susceptible to profit-taking after surges. The broader cryptocurrency market's decline indicates a potential cooling-off period after recent gains, which could lead to increased volatility and uncertainty in the short term.

According to CoinDesk, KiloEx is set to compensate users impacted by a $7 million security breach that led to a platform suspension. The compensation plan specifically targets users who had open positions during the suspension, aiming to cover the difference between increased losses and decreased profits they experienced. This move comes amid a broader trend of increasing exploits targeting decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, highlighting the importance of establishing clear mechanisms for compensating users affected by such incidents.

The KiloEx compensation plan will directly impact users who had open positions, with the extent of compensation dependent on individual losses. The platform's reputation and user trust are also at stake, requiring KiloEx to demonstrate a commitment to improved security measures to prevent future attacks. The exact nature of the attack and the methodology for calculating losses remain unspecified in the report.

The Daily Hodl reports that Binance, a leading global crypto exchange, has airdropped Hyperlane (HYPER) to eligible users and subsequently listed it for trading on Tuesday. HYPER is the native altcoin of a permissionless interoperability protocol. The listing and airdrop are part of Binance's HODLer Airdrops program, which rewards Binance Coin (BNB) holders with tokens from new projects. This initiative aims to incentivize BNB holding and provide early access to promising cryptocurrencies.

According to The Daily Hodl, the CFTC has announced a public comment period to explore the possibility of 24/7 trading in derivatives markets. Acting Chairman Caroline Pham emphasized the need for the agency to be forward-thinking in its approach to regulation. This move comes amid growing institutional interest in crypto derivatives and recent market volatility, as well as ongoing SEC lawsuits against major crypto exchanges, all of which underscore the need for regulatory adaptation.

The potential implications of 24/7 trading include increased trading volume and revenue for crypto exchanges, but also require significant investment in infrastructure and risk management. Retail investors could gain greater access but face increased risk due to overnight volatility. The CFTC would need to adapt its regulatory framework to ensure market integrity and investor protection.

According to The Daily Hodl, the SEC is considering 72 active applications for cryptocurrency ETFs as of April 2025. These applications, compiled by James Seyffart, an ETF analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, include funds based on a variety of cryptocurrencies, including Solana (SOL), XRP (XRP), Dogecoin (DOGE), and others. This follows the SEC's past caution regarding crypto ETFs, though the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024 has fueled speculation about potential approvals for other cryptocurrencies.

The SEC's decision on these applications will have significant implications for crypto investors, ETF issuers, and the SEC itself. Approval could increase liquidity and accessibility for altcoins, while rejection would maintain the status quo. The SEC faces pressure to balance investor protection with fostering innovation in the crypto market.

Decrypt reports on recent developments in the cryptocurrency market, including Bitcoin's temporary rise to $86,000 due to tariff optimism. The OM token experienced a dramatic crash, plummeting 90% in an hour, which the founder attributes to liquidations, denying any malicious intent. Grayscale suggests that high inflation could benefit cryptocurrency. Meanwhile, Metaplanet has significantly increased its Bitcoin holdings, now ranking as the 9th largest holder. Other developments include record levels of Bitcoin being drained from OTC desks, predictions of major crypto bills passing by August from Scott (current role not specified), Sweden considering Bitcoin reserves, New York considering a bill on state agencies accepting crypto, the Ethereum Foundation sharing a simplified roadmap, Solana (SOL) achieving record transaction volume and a high SOL/ETH ratio, and Binance urging the US government to ease crypto oversight.

Decrypt reports that Bitcoin's price has climbed back to $86,000, achieving 64% market dominance, and MicroStrategy acquired an additional $286 million in BTC. Conversely, the U.S. dollar has hit a three-year low. In regulatory news, the SEC has delayed its decision regarding staking for Ethereum ETFs, while Canada is preparing to launch the world's first Solana ETFs this week. Other developments include a whale accumulating $26 million in ETH, ZachXBT identifying figures involved in the OM crash, and Visa joining the Paxos and Robinhood stablecoin consortium. Kraken plans to expand into stocks and ETFs, and Anchorage is under investigation by U.S. Homeland Security.

Decrypt reports on recent developments in the cryptocurrency market, noting that Bitcoin initially dipped due to remarks from Jerome Powell, the current Chair of the Federal Reserve, before rebounding. Layer-1 blockchains, particularly Solana, are showing renewed strength, with SOL reaching its highest revenue since February. The Base blockchain, a Layer-2 solution, has also launched a memecoin, reflecting the ongoing interest in speculative crypto assets. Other highlights include Bitcoin's dominance reaching a four-year high and its hashrate hitting a new all-time high, alongside a pause in the 18-state lawsuit against the SEC. Gary Gensler, the current Chair of the SEC, commented that Bitcoin may be around for a long time.

According to Decrypt, the EU's data watchdog has proposed new rules aimed at limiting the storage of personal data on blockchains, citing potential conflicts with privacy regulations like GDPR. These proposed guidelines, likely from the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) or a similar entity, are not yet legally binding but signal the direction regulators are heading. The move is prompting concerns about the impact on various sectors within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

The implications of these guidelines are far-reaching, potentially requiring blockchain developers to incorporate privacy-enhancing technologies, imposing stricter data governance on crypto exchanges and custodians, and necessitating changes to how DeFi protocols access and process user data. While the goal is to protect personal data, there are worries that overly strict regulations could stifle innovation and hinder the EU's ability to compete in the global blockchain market.

Decrypt reports that GoMining's 'Miner Wars,' a play-to-earn game where players earn Bitcoin rewards linked to real-world Bitcoin mining, has introduced new features catering to a wider range of players. These additions aim to attract both novice and experienced gamers, potentially increasing user engagement and revenue for GoMining. GoMining, as of 2025, continues to expand its metaverse presence, exploring virtual mining opportunities and platform integrations.

However, the play-to-earn model faces increasing scrutiny from regulatory bodies, raising concerns about compliance with securities laws and consumer protection. The success of 'Miner Wars' and similar games could also indirectly increase demand for Bitcoin mining resources, impacting the broader cryptocurrency market.

Decrypt reports that Cantor Fitzgerald is exploring a $3 billion Bitcoin deal with SoftBank, Tether, and Bitfinex. Brandon Lutnick, currently the Head of Strategic Initiatives at Cantor Fitzgerald, is set to lead 21 Capital, a new Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) designed to capitalize on Bitcoin's growth. Cantor Fitzgerald's past involvement in crypto has primarily been offering trading and custody services, while SoftBank's crypto strategy has seen fluctuating interest. Tether and Bitfinex have faced regulatory scrutiny, and their involvement could attract further attention.

The success of 21 Capital hinges on identifying a promising Bitcoin-related business amidst a cooled-down SPAC market. This potential investment could impact Bitcoin's price and institutional adoption, while also intensifying regulatory scrutiny of the cryptocurrency industry. Brandon Lutnick's leadership will be crucial in navigating the complex landscape and managing regulatory risks.