Category: crypto

Sberbank, Russia’s largest bank, is testing DeFi, tokenization, and Ethereum-based products in response to increasing client demand for crypto trading and digital asset holdings. The bank sees DeFi as complementary to traditional services and is exploring how decentralized protocols can support trading, asset management, and settlement functions.

Aster has introduced Shield Mode, a new trading feature offering private BTC and ETH perp trading with leverage up to 1001x. Trades execute instantly with zero slippage, no public order book, and isolated margin for risk control. Fees are waived until Dec. 31, with new pricing models planned later.

SBI Holdings and Startale are collaborating to develop a yen-denominated stablecoin under Japan’s regulatory framework, set to launch in Q2 2026. The stablecoin aims to support cross-border payments and tokenized assets, providing a regulated digital yen for global use. Startale will handle technical implementation, while SBI Holdings will manage market distribution and compliance.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission softened its approach to crypto cases after Trump’s re-election, dropping or pausing over 60% of ongoing cases. Critics suggest political ties influenced the decisions, despite the SEC claiming it was a regulatory shift. Meanwhile, the SEC is reviewing Nasdaq’s proposal to list tokenized securities.

Visa is launching a Stablecoins Advisory Practice to help businesses integrate stablecoins into their operations. With the stablecoin market booming, Visa aims to provide strategic insights and recommendations for clients to capitalize on the benefits of stablecoins. The service will assist firms in navigating regulatory standards and staying ahead in the digital payment ecosystem.

BitMine Immersion Technologies Inc. has purchased over 102,000 Ethereum, bringing its total holdings to 3.97 million ETH valued at $12.2 billion. Co-founder Tom Lee remains confident in the digital asset market, emphasizing long-term potential in AI and blockchain technologies. The company is also preparing to launch a proprietary Ethereum staking network in 2026.

Hybrid crypto hub Byrrgis has obtained an EU MiCA license and opened its waitlist for early access before its January 15 launch. Byrrgis aims to be a regulated financial platform, offering a universal trading platform with CEX and DEX architecture. Users can create custom packs of crypto assets for portfolio diversification.

Curve Finance founder Michael Egorov has proposed a CRV token grant to fund core development work through 2026, supporting a 25-person team at Swiss Stake AG. The grant will focus on software research, development, security, and ecosystem support. The proposal is open for voting until December 22, 2025, with current votes in favor.

A critical React Server Components vulnerability is being exploited by attackers to drain crypto wallets and deploy malware, prompting urgent warnings in the cryptocurrency industry. Patches have been released, but new vulnerabilities have been discovered. Hackers are moving stolen funds faster, with $3B stolen in the first half of 2025. Patching and monitoring are advised.

FSOC removed crypto from its systemic risk list after Trump’s order, the GENIUS Act, SEC and OCC shifts, and U.S. banks’ increased use of ETFs and stablecoins. The 2025 report now categorizes digital assets as “significant market developments,” citing institutional adoption and tokenization. Global bodies still warn of risks despite the shift easing stigma for…