Category: crypto

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has introduced a pilot program allowing tokenized assets to be used as collateral in U.S. derivatives markets. This move provides clearer guidelines for firms handling tokenized real-world assets, enhancing market infrastructure safety and efficiency. Industry leaders view this as a positive step towards innovation and regulation.

MegaETH is set to launch its Frontier mainnet beta for developers next week. The month-long beta will focus on stability testing and early app deployment. Recent bridge issues were resolved with full refunds. The mainnet launch is expected in early 2026. The project aims to deliver real-time Ethereum performance.

HashKey has launched a Hong Kong IPO aiming to raise up to $215M, supported by UBS and Fidelity. The exchange, one of the first to receive a license under Hong Kong’s digital asset framework, is seeking to position itself as a regional leader in compliant crypto firms amidst market volatility.

South Korea plans to implement no-fault rules requiring crypto exchanges to fully reimburse users for hacks and system failures without proof of negligence. This move follows recent IT incidents and aims to strengthen consumer protection. If adopted, South Korea’s regulations would be among the toughest in the world for cryptocurrency exchanges.

Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas refutes Bitcoin-tulip comparisons by highlighting its 17-year history, ETF demand, and scarcity-driven value. He notes Bitcoin’s 250% increase in three years and 122% in 2024 despite recent pullbacks. Balchunas argues that Bitcoin’s survival, institutional support, and market resilience differentiate it from short-lived bubbles like tulips.

In 2026, crypto users are prioritizing security when choosing platforms after a turbulent 2025. Hybrid CEX + DEX models are gaining popularity for their security and flexibility. Platforms like Binance, BYDFi, Coinbase, OKX, and Kraken are expected to stand out in 2026 for their strong security, features, and asset support.

Major U.S. banks deny accusations of politically motivated de-banking, attributing account closures to regulatory compliance rather than ideology. Crypto businesses face de-risking pressure, but evidence suggests political motivations are exaggerated. Lack of transparency in banking closures fuels misconceptions, highlighting the need for clearer standards and communication.

President Trump is expected to name a new Federal Reserve chair before Christmas, with Kevin Hassett and Christopher Waller among the finalists. The new chair could impact crypto prices, with lower interest rates typically boosting prices. A 25-basis-point rate cut is expected at the Dec. 10 Fed meeting, but uncertainty remains.

The number of Bitcoin addresses holding over 0.1 BTC has declined by 2.3% over two years, the first drop since 2009. Smaller wallets saw a 0.7% decline, while larger balances decreased more. This reflects changing infrastructure and security practices, with many investors now using intermediaries like ETFs and exchanges.

EMJ Capital’s Eric Jackson predicts Bitcoin could reach $50 million per coin by 2041. He believes Bitcoin will transition from digital gold to global collateral for sovereign debt, potentially replacing the Eurodollar system. This shift would require Bitcoin’s value to increase significantly, making it a foundational layer in the financial system.