Category: crypto

Coinbase Derivatives filed with the CFTC to launch an XRP futures contract, pending approval by April 21, 2025. This move aims to provide regulated exposure to XRP through derivatives, potentially increasing institutional participation and legitimacy in traditional finance. Speculation about a spot XRP ETF approval is also growing, with several asset managers expressing interest.

Solana experienced its largest single-day token unlock, with over $200 million worth of SOL entering circulation as investor interest in the network weakens. Over 1.3 million SOL tokens were released from staking, the biggest single unlock expected until 2028. Some holders are transferring tokens to exchanges, possibly to take profits or exit positions.

The Pi Network community is becoming increasingly frustrated as the token reaches record lows, with concerns over the project’s direction. Pi Network Turkey accused the team of sidelining user voices and outlined grievances such as delays in the mainnet launch and lack of transparency. Users are planning a protest if demands are not met.

Former Binance CEO CZ signed a MoU with the Kyrgyz Republic to support blockchain and crypto infrastructure. The agreement focuses on technological infrastructure, digital asset frameworks, and education in blockchain. The collaboration aims to strengthen the country’s economy and governance systems by integrating blockchain technology. Zhao sees this as part of a global initiative.

Bitwise Asset Management has launched three new ETFs focused on generating monthly income from the high volatility of crypto-linked stocks. The ETFs, including Bitwise Coinbase Option Income Strategy ETF, use a covered call strategy and have a net expense ratio of 0.98%. They offer consistent returns but cap potential upside.

The SEC’s Crypto Task Force met with representatives from BlackRock and the Crypto Council for Innovation to discuss regulatory issues related to crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs). BlackRock discussed in-kind redemptions for crypto ETPs, while the CCI discussed staking on ETPs. The meetings signal continued institutional interest in advancing regulatory clarity for crypto financial products.

Standard Chartered has started covering Avalanche (AVAX) with a positive long-term outlook, predicting a 10x price increase by 2029. The bank sees Avalanche as a winner in the digital asset space, with strong scalability and developer adoption, especially after the Etna upgrade in December 2024. AVAX is projected to outperform Bitcoin and Ethereum in the…

In 2024, the number of Bitcoin-native startups receiving venture capital investment increased, with a 27.5% rise in unique companies funded and 31.8% in individual transactions. Despite a 22.1% decrease in total capital raised, early-stage investments grew, indicating growing interest in backing Bitcoin-native companies. Bitcoin-native startups represent a small but active segment in the crypto investment…

Ethereum core developers have confirmed that the Pectra upgrade will be deployed on May 7, replacing the previous tentative date of April 30. The upgrade aims to improve wallet features and enhance user experience, potentially reigniting activity within Ethereum’s ecosystem and increasing network scalability. The Ethereum community has also undergone leadership changes.

North Korea’s Lazarus hacking group made a significant profit of over $2.5 million from selling wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC) for Ethereum (ETH). The group’s activities, supported by the North Korean regime, have led to the theft of more than $6 billion in digital assets. Lazarus continues to pose a threat to the global financial system.