Category: crypto

Jan Kubíček, a Czech National Bank board member, has raised doubts about Bitcoin’s suitability as a reserve asset due to legal uncertainty and price instability. He expressed concerns about the need to overhaul the bank’s systems to adopt Bitcoin and highlighted challenges in incorporating it without clear regulations and managing market volatility. Kubíček’s stance contrasts…

Television director Carl Erik Rinsch has been charged by the US Department of Justice for defrauding a major streaming company of $11 million. Rinsch allegedly used the funds intended for a television show on personal expenses and investments, facing severe legal penalties if convicted, including up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud.

The Ethereum Foundation plans to phase out the Holesky testnet by September 2025 due to recurring issues hindering testing for the Pectra upgrade. A new testnet called Hoodi will take over Pectra-related testing. Holesky faced major issues during testing, leading to chain splits and network instability. Sepolia also had issues but recovered quickly. Ethereum will…

Ripple has won its legal battle against the SEC as the regulator dropped its appeal. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse celebrated the victory, stating it reinforces the legitimacy of digital assets. XRP surged by over 10% following the announcement. The court ruled in favor of Ripple in August 2024, determining XRP is not a security.

Coinbase has launched Verified Pools, a KYC-verified liquidity pool to enhance DeFi adoption and reduce risks. Users can connect their wallets and trade securely on-chain. Coinbase partnered with Gauntlet to optimize pool configurations. Institutional interest in crypto is rising, with investors planning to increase exposure to digital assets. Regulatory clarity is a key challenge.

EOS Network will rebrand as Vaulta, focusing on web3 banking with decentralized technology. The transition, including a token swap, is set for late May 2025. The move aims to leverage Bitcoin’s influence and provide open financial access. Vaulta will establish a Banking Advisory Council and partner with exSat for a decentralized financial ecosystem.

Microsoft researchers have discovered a new remote access trojan called StilachiRAT that targets cryptocurrency wallets and sensitive data. The malware employs stealth techniques and anti-forensic measures to evade detection and maintain access to compromised devices. Microsoft recommends mitigation strategies and updates to detect and protect against StilachiRAT.

Fintech and crypto firms are seeking state and national banking licenses under Trump’s administration for regulatory approval. Increased interest in banking licenses aims to cater to underserved customer bases. Regulatory leaders are encouraging new bank charter applications. Obtaining a banking license offers strategic benefits such as lower borrowing costs and improved market credibility.

The regulation of stablecoins in the US is progressing and could reach President Trump’s desk in two months. The GENIUS Act proposes regulatory guidelines for stablecoin issuance and oversight, with bipartisan support. The Presidential Working Group on Digital Assets is making progress towards creating a regulatory framework for crypto innovation.

A recent survey by Coinbase and EY-Parthenon found that 83% of institutional investors plan to increase their cryptocurrency allocations in 2025, with growing confidence in digital assets due to regulatory clarity. Stablecoins and DeFi are gaining favor, with interest in alternative cryptocurrencies and ETPs. Regulatory clarity is seen as a key driver for institutional adoption…