Tag: money

S&P 500 Drops Amid Trump’s Tariff Announcement, But Bitcoin Remains Resilient

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 20:34:27 +0000

The S&P 500 suffered a major blow on Thursday, dropping 4.02% in the wake of President Trump’s declaration of fresh tariffs.

This sharp downturn is now among the index’s most substantial declines in recent times. Indeed, during the still-young 2020s, no fewer than five days have marked worse performances than this one. The most significant of these bad days include:

– March 16, 2020: -11.98%

– March 12, 2020: -9.51%

– March 9, 2020: -7.60%

– June 11, 2020: -5.89%

– September 13, 2022: -4.32%

After investors processed the announcement of new tariffs, worries about international trade and global economic relations sent the stock market into a tailspin and led to a sell-off. Although many different parts of the economy took a hit from the announcement, the stock market’s losses certainly reflect a broader concern for the overall health of the global economy.

Even with the stock market’s ups and downs, the cryptocurrency scene has somehow stayed strong. It’s usual to see cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC) just following the main market moves, but during these trade-policy-induced market wobbles, Bitcoin’s been even more resilient and has been making its own moves. Its decentralized, borderless nature makes it more insulated from these trade turmoil-induced market shifts.

Bitcoin’s Resilience Amid Stock Market Chaos

Despite traditional markets suffering from global economic instability tied to Trump’s tariff announcement, Bitcoin has remained relatively unscathed. As of this past Thursday, Bitcoin was trading at a price of $81.9K. This indicates a swiftness in recovery for Bitcoin, considering that it had just seen a $77.0K local bottom around three weeks ago (on May 23). In fact, Bitcoin was up over 6% in the last week alone. This price stability is in sharp contrast to the declines seen in the stock market.

One reason that Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are largely unaffected by tariffs is that they are intangible assets that exist without borders. Unlike traditional stocks, which are often linked to particular companies that engage in international trade, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin operate in a way that allows them to be largely untouched by such taxes. Their global nature makes them more akin to precious metals, which also are not wallets for trade tax collectors.

Bitcoin’s relatively stable performance during the recent sell-offs in the stock market underscores its potential to act as a hedge against old-fashioned market volatility. While cryptocurrencies are still highly speculative assets and can experience their own fits of volatility, they are not directly subject to the sorts of political decisions that these days seem to be causing the stock market to wobble up and down (e.g., decisions about trade tariffs and import/export restrictions). This has made Bitcoin an especially attractive “store of value” for some investors who want to put their money somewhere that isn’t closely tied to the performance of traditional capital markets.

Tariffs and the Stock Market: An Immediate Reaction

When tariffs were announced by Trump, it sent several waves through the stock market and became a major topic of conversation among pundits and investors, to be sure. But was the immediate market reaction—especially the sharp drop that ensued—really justified? Is the world on the brink of a new trade war? And how might all this impact the already tenuous state of the global economy?

The S&P 500’s 4.02% drop today is the latest in a string of losses for the broader market, reflecting a rising tide of investor uncertainty. In addition to fretting over tariffs, investors are starting to worry a lot more about inflation, rising interest rates, and the potential for some kind of economic slowdown. While the S&P 500 is nowhere near its pandemic-era lows, its performance today was one of the worst trading days it’s experienced in recent memory, and it really underscores how fragile traditional markets are in the face of all this political volatility.

The Crypto Market’s Relative Calm

The cryptocurrency market has been far more stable than the stock market in recent weeks. Its traditional counterpart has suffered through some volatile periods. Bitcoin’s ability to hold above $80K in a time of not just turbulence but outright economic storm all over the globe speaks to a growing maturity of the crypto market.

Besides this innate strength, the global transformation toward digital assets is playing an increasingly prominent part in the rising robustness of Bitcoin. More and more institutional investors are now including Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in their diversified portfolios, while retail investors are continuing to perceive crypto as an alternative store of value, not to mention an up-to-now highly effective hedge against the not-so-traditional price volatility of today’s financial markets.

In spite of being fairly protected from tariffs, Bitcoin is nevertheless influenced by the overall state of the economy. When events of global economic concern push toward a tipping point, we are accustomed to seeing sell-offs not just in traditional protective assets, like gold, but also in cryptocurrencies, which appear to many as nothing more than speculative investments. However, the recent sell-off in the stock market has not been mirrored in the Bitcoin market. On the contrary, the price of Bitcoin has risen significantly since the stock market began its recent slide.

What’s Next for Bitcoin and Traditional Markets?

The recent split between the performance of Bitcoin and that of traditional assets, such as the S&P 500, raises elemental questions about the future of cryptocurrencies in the global financial system. As central banks and governments across the world work to solve problems like inflation, trade imbalances, and supply chain snags, the fact that Bitcoin appears increasingly immune to these sorts of pressures makes it a more attractive option for investors searching for diversification and long-term value preservation.

Though they still face plenty of problems — including court fights over whether they are securities, market volatility, and recent episodes of very bad public relations — cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin performed better than stocks during the recent downturn. Also, they typically have gone up in value when stocks have gone down over the past several months, suggesting that they are diversifying the investment landscape in a way that could be very positive for investors.

Currently, both the stock market and the cryptocurrency market have the attention of investors as the effects of Trump’s tariffs are starting to be felt. Investors have to realize that their investment decisions are now being influenced by politics. If stocks and traditional assets are facing political pressure, then the escape clause may be Bitcoin, which is acting like a proven hedge. Yet, even as I write this, Bitcoin is in the process of shedding over 10 percent of its value.

Disclosure: This is not trading or investment advice. Always do your research before buying any cryptocurrency or investing in any services.

Follow us on Twitter @themerklehash to stay updated with the latest Crypto, NFT, AI, Cybersecurity, and Metaverse news!

The post S&P 500 Drops Amid Trump’s Tariff Announcement, But Bitcoin Remains Resilient appeared first on The Merkle News.

Ripple (XRP) Price Prediction: Which Will Come First for XRP Price — $0.50 or $5, and Why?

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 17:51:25 +0000

The post Ripple (XRP) Price Prediction: Which Will Come First for XRP Price — $0.50 or $5, and Why? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Fresh regulatory changes alongside macroeconomic movements place XRP and its status at the center of Ripple’s market attention. XRP previously exhibited potential to rule global payments, yet it trades between $5 and $0.50 in restricted price ranges as investors execute a down-or-upward trajectory prediction.

Remittix (RTX) token stands out among utility tokens because it addresses practical operative needs, which raises speculation about XRP’s market leadership in cross-border transactions.

XRP Struggles to Break Out Despite Legal Clarity

The 2024 legal victory between Ripple and the SEC in court brought definitive clarity regarding the non-security status of XRP. The court decision about the XRP classification brought back investor confidence, causing the token price to increase dramatically. The price reached its peak settlement value, after which the momentum decreased steadily.

Although volatile, XRP maintains a trading pattern near $2.09 to $2.17 while experts monitor essential price points. The price will probably experience renewed bullish strength if it breaks through $2.50; however, declining below $2 may trigger ongoing market downturns. The market has conflicting opinions, while charts indicate decision-making difficulty.

The transaction activity levels of XRP have fallen below those witnessed at its peak periods. RippleNet maintains its bank partner base, but the crypto industry now features numerous newer payment-focused protocols.

The XRP price rally creates a dilemma for potential investors who must choose between an expected return of $0.50 or the continued fulfillment of $5 price forecasts which analysts have maintained over the past years.

Remittix Offers a New Blueprint for Cross-Border Utility

XRP maintains a quest to recover previous growth, although Remittix (RTX) has emerged as its major market competition. RTX attracts investor interest due to its presale price of $0.0734 and has collected over $14.3 million through successful fundraising before its release.

Remittix develops an ecosystem based on consumer needs that effectively serves individual users as well as freelancers, NGOs and small businesses instead of XRP’s target of institutional pipelines.

The main service of this platform consists of converting cryptocurrency into local currency, which gets deposited directly into any supported banking account instantaneously.

The product provides a smooth transition between blockchain technology and standard banking systems to eliminate international money transfer barriers that many established cryptocurrencies have failed to address.

Analysts view Remittix as an early phase version of Ripple, with the exception that users have instant access since its launch. The market analysts predict that RTX can elevate up to 50x value by 2026, while the crypto sector begins its transition from hype to practical utility.

A Changing Landscape for Utility-Driven Tokens

The destiny of XRP reaching $5 vs. attaining $0.50 first goes beyond Ripple’s roadmap, since market changes are crucial in this scenario. The market transformation found its expression in this trend.

Cryptocurrency investors have begun to abstain from past narrative-based token projects while embracing new ventures that provide validated,quick results.

The new utility token category represented by Remittix is creating a complete transformation of blockchain operational strategies compared to those practiced by XRP and its institutional supporters.

These tokens provide rapid onboarding and emphasize products first, along with regulatory understanding. Current investor needs require stronger market performance than they needed in the past five years.

Analysts do not create this prediction about XRP reaching $0.50 prices simply for speculation. The prolonged correction of either Bitcoin or Ethereum would trigger widespread deterioration throughout the entire altcoin market sector.

XRP remains exposed to negative prospects when it lacks new positive developments. Ripple’s path to reach $5 becomes achievable when it gains more central bank partnerships and expands the adoption of its ODL across underdeveloped areas, following U.S. institutions returning to the market.

The Path Ahead Is Narrow — But Not Closed

XRP continues to occupy an unstable position between the lowest values it formed during previous downturns and its former anticipated peak price of $5. Legally established clarity for Ripple creates some stability for the token, yet it does not shield XRP from the wider market fluctuations.

What determines whether XRP reaches its predicted $5 value before seeing price drop back to $0.50 resides in market sentiment along with execution timing.

The company Remittix develops new technology which is now growing commercially. XRP’s capability to address real-time needs has converted it into an extremely popular pre-sale event of this year. RTX tokens could leap higher than XRP if the latter fails to execute successful consumer-oriented applications.

Join the Remittix (RTX) presale and community:

Join Remittix (RTX) Presale

Join the Remittix (RTX) Community

CZ’s Warning: 95% of Cryptos Are Doomed—But Ozak AI’s Path to $1 Looks Stronger Than Ever!

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 17:40:04 +0000

The post CZ’s Warning: 95% of Cryptos Are Doomed—But Ozak AI’s Path to $1 Looks Stronger Than Ever! appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has warned that 95% of cryptocurrencies are destined to fail due to weak fundamentals, lack of real-world utility, and terrible execution. However, Ozak AI (OZ) is emerging as a standout project with a sturdy use case in AI-driven blockchain generation. By integrating predictive analytics, machine learning, and decentralized finance, Ozak AI offers real-time market insights and automatic trading solutions, setting it apart from speculative tokens.

Currently in its 3rd presale stage at just $0.003, analysts expect OZ could attain $1, imparting a large growth possibility. With AI reshaping industries and blockchain technology evolving, Ozak AI’s progressive method positions many of the elite 5% of cryptos with long-term potential, proving CZ’s caution at the same time as highlighting its promising destiny.

The Crypto Market’s Harsh Reality

Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has long been a vocal figure within the cryptocurrency space, offering insights into market trends and potential risks. Recently, CZ issued a stark caution: 95% of cryptocurrencies will finally fail. His declaration aligns with a widely usual reality within the crypto enterprise—most projects lack real-world software, sturdy development groups, or long-term sustainability.

Despite the fast increase of the blockchain sector, history has shown that only a handful of tasks manage to survive and thrive over time. Many cryptocurrencies released with bold roadmaps however fail due to terrible execution, lack of adoption, or unsustainable tokenomics. With regulation tightening and investors becoming extra cautious, most effective tasks with sturdy basics and innovative use instances will have a risk at long-term success. This raises the question: Which cryptos will defy the odds?

Youtube embed:

OZAK AI Will Get You Successful Returns with $1 in Target on Launch

Why Ozak AI (OZ) Stands Out

Among the emerging crypto initiatives, Ozak AI (OZ) is swiftly gaining traction as a promising project. Unlike the heaps of speculative tokens flooding the market, Ozak AI is built on a foundation of artificial intelligence and blockchain integration, offering real-world applications that deal with urgent financial and analytical needs.

Ozak AI combines AI-pushed predictive analytics, machine learning algorithms, and decentralized finance (DeFi) to offer users with real-time monetary insights, automated trading strategies, and advanced data analytics. This approach unites it other than conventional cryptocurrencies, many of which lack a tangible use case beyond hypothesis. By leveraging AI, Ozak AI ambitions to revolutionize the way investors have interaction with the crypto market, making facts-driven decisions extra accessible and efficient.

The project’s particular features include the Ozak Stream Network (OSN) for low-latency statistics processing, decentralized protection via DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks), and customizable Prediction Agents (PAs) that permit users to tailor AI models to their unique wishes. These innovations role Ozak AI as a leading pressure inside the AI-powered blockchain revolution.

Moreover, the 3rd stage of the Ozak AI presale is currently occurring, and the task is already making waves within the crypto community. With an outstanding over $900K raised so far, Ozak AI tokens are currently priced at simply $0.003 each, with the next level price set at $0.005. This early-level opportunity is poised for sizable growth, with projections suggesting that the token ought to reach $1 by 2025.

The Road to $1: A Realistic Projection

Currently, Ozak AI is in its 3rd presale stage, with the OZ token priced at simply $0.003. Given the growing hobby in AI-driven crypto solutions and the speedy adoption of blockchain-based predictive analytics, analysts are expecting that OZ should reach $1 in the near future. This could represent an outstanding 333x return for early investors, making it one of the most money making opportunities in the current crypto market.

Unlike many tokens that rely simply on hype, Ozak AI is sponsored by a strong ecosystem and clear software. The growing demand for AI in financial markets, mixed with the assignment’s innovative method, gives it a great area over competitors. If adoption keeps at its current pace and the AI area keeps its momentum, Ozak AI might be among the elite 5% of cryptos that prevail, proving CZ’s caution right while solidifying its place as a chief player within the industry.

CZ’s caution about the fate of 95% of cryptocurrencies is a reminder that now not all initiatives are built to remain. However, Ozak AI’s solid fundamentals, progressive AI integration, and strong market positioning make its route to $1 extra promising than ever. For traders seeking a project with real-world value and long-term boom potential, Ozak AI sticks out as an extraordinary opportunity in an otherwise unsure market.

About Ozak AI

Ozak AI is a blockchain-based project that provides a technology platform that specializes in predictive AI and advanced data analytics for financial markets. Ozak AI helps crypto investors and businesses in decision-making by providing real-time, accurate, and actionable insights through machine learning algorithms and decentralized network technologies.

For more visit:

Website: https://Ozak.ai/

Telegram: https://t.me/OzakAGI

Twitter : https://x.com/Ozakagi

Pi Network News Today: Expert Finally Reveals Why Binance Might Never List Pi Coin

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 12:10:04 +0000

The post Pi Network News Today: Expert Finally Reveals Why Binance Might Never List Pi Coin appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Pi Coin’s price has been on a rollercoaster—rising to $2.98 before crashing down to $0.50, leaving many surprised. As of now, Pi is down over 11% and trading at $0.63. One reason for Pi Coin’s struggle could be its absence from major exchanges like Binance and Coinbase, which limits its visibility and trading volume.

As reported by Bao Moi, Nguyễn Hà Minh Thông, founder of Cabo Capital in Ho Chi Minh City, has shared reasons on why Binance has yet to list Pi Token. The expert said that while the Pi community might believe the project doesn’t need Binance, without recognition from major exchanges, Pi will continue to face skepticism and struggle to achieve real market value.

Limited Open Market Activity:

Pi Network’s mainnet has been live since late 2024, but it remains in an “enclosed” state, meaning transactions are limited to its internal ecosystem. Binance prefers projects with fully open, public blockchains to ensure transparency and market stability.

Unclear Tokenomics:

The total supply of Pi is reportedly 100 billion tokens, but only about 6.8 billion are in circulation. The Pi Core Team has also reduced the supply by removing 10 million tokens without clear explanations, raising concerns about potential price manipulation. Binance requires clear data on token distribution to avoid risks.

Regulatory Concerns:

Binance is under regulatory pressure globally, especially in the U.S., where legal issues around money laundering and financial compliance are serious. Pi Network has not been officially recognized by any regulatory body. In Vietnam, cryptocurrencies aren’t legally recognized, and in China, Pi was flagged as a “multi-level marketing project.” Listing Pi could expose Binance to legal risks.

Lack of Liquidity and Market Activity:

For a token to be listed on Binance, it needs strong liquidity and trading volume on major exchanges. Pi currently trades mainly through OTC channels like Telegram and small exchanges (e.g., OKX, HTX) with unstable prices. Binance prefers tokens that have experienced real price discovery in open markets.

Centralization Issues:

Pi Network has faced criticism for its high level of centralization, with the Pi Core Team controlling all mainnet nodes. This contradicts the decentralization principle that major exchanges like Binance prioritize, as seen with Bitcoin and Ethereum.

MMA Star Conor McGregor’s REAL Token Draws Backlash Over Structure and Execution

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 12:01:12 +0000

Conor McGregor, the former UFC champion, has entered the crypto scene with the launch of a new memecoin dubbed REAL.

Despite the star power behind it, REAL is off to a sluggish start, struggling to attract investor interest in a memecoin market that is still reeling from recent scandals.

Conor McGregor’s REAL Token Raises Just $218,000

Announced on April 5, McGregor unveiled his plans to disrupt the digital asset space, claiming he had already changed the fight, whiskey, and stout industries.

“I changed the FIGHT game. I changed the WHISKEY game. I changed the STOUT game. Now it’s time to change the CRYPTO game. This is just the beginning. This is REAL,” McGregor announced on X.

His latest move involves a partnership with Real World Gaming DAO to launch REAL. The token promises staking rewards and governance rights through a decentralized autonomous organization.

According to the project’s website, the team opted for a sealed-bid auction model to launch the token, aiming to prevent bot manipulation and create fairer pricing.

Under this system, participants submitted bids using USDC. Successful bidders would receive REAL tokens based on a clearing price, while those who didn’t meet the mark would be refunded.

“The auction will be open for 28 hours, after which a single clearing price will be determined. Tokens will be locked for 12 hours after auction close to facilitate a snipe-free deployment of on-chain liquidity. Proceeds from the auction will seed this pool and fund the DAO treasury,” the project added.

However, the community’s response to the project has been underwhelming. The team aimed to raise $3.6 million, with a minimum threshold of $1 million. As of press time, the auction has raised just $218,000, far below expectations.

REAL Token Fundraise. Source: REAL Website

Several issues appear to be fueling investor hesitation. Critics have called out the token’s short unlock window, warning that it creates ideal conditions for rapid sell-offs.

Others raised concerns about the project’s use of third-party logos on its site, hinting at misleading promotional tactics.

Moreover, community feedback about the project has also been overwhelmingly negative. Many users labeled the tokenomics as flawed and accused the team of focusing on short-term hype rather than sustainable value.

“If you’re buying REAL token, prepare to get dumped on. The tokenomics are absolute trash, and the unlock cliff is only 12 hours. You’re essentially giving your money away if you buy this token,” Crypto Rug Muncher wrote.

Conor McGregor’s REAL Token Tokenomics. Source: REAL Website

Meanwhile, the dismal launch reflects broader exhaustion in the meme coin sector, which has been rattled by recent scandals involving other celebrity-backed tokens.

Tokens tied to Donald Trump and Melania, for instance, have seen sharp declines that have caused investors significant losses.

“Celebrity coins like McGregor’s REAL and Trumps’ are toxic for crypto! Driven by hype, they lack utility, $Trump crashed 81%, $Melania 92%. These [tokens] hurt investors and crypto’s reputation. We need utility tokens for real value and growth,” Maragkos Petros, the founder of MetadudesX said on social media platform X.

The post MMA Star Conor McGregor’s REAL Token Draws Backlash Over Structure and Execution appeared first on BeInCrypto.

All you wanted to know from web3 developer, but hesitated to ask

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 12:00:03 +0000

The following is a guest post from Hlib Rabchuk, PR Manager at Ethereum Ukraine.

Web3 is evolving at breakneck speed—new protocols emerge, developer trends shift, and the skills in demand today might become obsolete tomorrow. For those navigating the industry, staying ahead isn’t just about technical expertise; it’s about understanding where the space is headed.

Yurii Kovalchuk, Web3 Engineer at Forte Group and blockchain development lecturer at Set University, has witnessed these shifts firsthand. With over nine years in IT, spanning Java back-end development to leading teams in Web3 startups, he brings a unique perspective on how the industry has changed and where it’s going next.

From the rise of Rust and AI-integrated Web3 solutions to security blind spots that still plague developers—this interview unpacks the reality of building in Web3 today. Whether you’re a developer, investor, or just a curious mind looking to make sense of the space, Yurii’s insights offer a rare look into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of blockchain.

Web3 labour market: how has the industry changed over the past 5 years?

– How different is the demand for Web3 specialists today compared to 5 years ago? What subjects should an average student developer pay attention to in order to work in Web3?

Yurii: Five years is a whole era for Web3. This period is too durable for evaluating changes as the market develops in rapid cycles.

For example, 5 years ago, we didn’t even know what DeFi was. Now it is one of the key components of Web3. But if we talk about current trends in the labour market, this is the key points that I see:

High demand for Rust developers. The popularity of Solana has increased, and so has the demand for specialists who can effectively write in Rust.
Web3 engineers with an understanding of AI. The AI agents-space is developing rapidly, and there is a demand for AI integration into Web3 protocols.
Security Researchers. A new wave of AI-related attacks is expected, so auditors and security specialists are becoming even more sought-after.
Developer Relations. This role that helps build a bridge between projects and developers, is becoming increasingly important as Web3 expands beyond the narrow technical community.
Marketers with an aggressive style. Web3 has a very specific marketing style, which requires flexibility and volume. The usual methods don’t always work.
Community managers. Web3 projects are heavily dependent on the community, and decent community management is becoming critical.

Solana vs. Ethereum: where is one technology ahead of the other?

– What does Solana do that Ethereum has not yet managed to achieve? Are there any changes that could correct this imbalance?

Yurii: Indeed, Solana currently has an advantage in terms of throughput and low fees. All due to its architecture, which allows it to reach thousands of transactions per second without the need for additional scaling layers.

Ethereum, on the other hand, builds a more decentralized and trusted infrastructure, which makes it safer and more sustainable in the long run. Layer 2 solutions are being actively developed and already allow Ethereum to significantly improve performance.

With future updates, Ethereum will be able to catch up with Solana in terms of transaction speed and cost.

But whether Solana will be able to achieve the same stability and decentralisation as Ethereum is an open question.

One critical security mistake still being made in Web3

– You often refer to the importance of security on your blog. What is one common security mistake that Web3 developers still make?

Yurii: The biggest mistake that developers and users alike still make is not managing private keys properly.

Yes, the joke about the private key commit on GitHub is still relevant because it is only partially true. People often store seed phrases, private keys, and other sensitive information incorrectly, neglecting hardware wallets and additional signature checks, which leads to hacks, phishing, and asset theft.

Access management in smart contracts comes in second. This is the main cause of Web3 protocol hacks, as many developers either leave excessive administrative rights or incorrectly implement contract update mechanisms.

As a result, owners may lose control of the protocol, or hackers may gain access to critical functions.

Web3 continues to evolve, but basic security mistakes are still the cause of the biggest attacks and hacks.

Web3 needs a rebranding. But what kind of rebranding?

– You recently stated that Web3 needs a new positioning. What specific aspects do you think should be changed?

Yurii: I do not believe that “Web3″ as a term needs rebranding – its image is still quite positive and untarnished.

The need for change is more related to the concepts of crypto and blockchain.

Crypto today has a very speculative and negative image due to the large number of people trying to abuse the system and chase easy money. Blockchain, on the other hand, is perceived as an outdated and archaic term, and sometimes even automatically identified with cryptocurrencies, which creates the wrong impression. This can only be corrected through education and proper communication.

On my social media pages, I always explain that these three concepts – Web3, blockchain and crypto – are all completely different things.

Hence, Blockchain is a technology, Crypto is one of its use cases, and Web3 is a whole paradigm of the new Internet, with which you own your data and assets.

This approach should help shape the correct perception of Web3 among the mass audience.

Pectra: what is it and why is it important?

– On 24 February, the Ethereum Pectra hard fork is due to take place. What key changes does this update bring, and what new opportunities does it open up for the Ethereum ecosystem and its developers?

Yurii: The Pectra hard fork is another important step in Ethereum’s development, combining two major offerings: Prague for the Execution Layer and Electra for the Consensus Layer. This will be one of the largest Ethereum updates in history (in terms of the number of EIPs). There are three main areas worth noting:

User Experience (EIP-7702) is a new approach to temporarily converting EOAs (Externally Owned Accounts) into smart contracts, which significantly improves UX and brings us closer to real Account Abstraction (AA). This opens up opportunities such as transaction batching, payment of commissions using ERC-20 tokens, and different levels of account access.
Validators’ work (EIP-7002, EIP-7251). Validators will be able to withdraw their earnings and staked ETH independently, which will make the process more flexible and faster. Besides, the maximum amount for staking by one validator will increase from 32 ETH to 2048 ETH. This will simplify management for large stakers and reduce the number of validators in the network while maintaining its decentralization.
EIP-7691 increases the maximum number of Blob data in a block to 9 (previously 6) and the target number to 6 (previously 3), which temporarily improves Ethereum’s throughput for rollup solutions until peerDAS is implemented. EIP-7623 increases the cost of calldata by encouraging rollups to use Blob data, which is a more efficient way of storing it.

Are developers still creating the market trends?

– You are currently participating in the Uniswap Hook Incubator. Given that the dominant market narratives are shaped by developers, is it possible to predict market trends in such a community?

Yurii: Yes, I am currently in the middle of completing an incubator programme run by the Uniswap Foundation & Atrium Academy. In it, we are deeply exploring the capabilities of Uniswap v4 and its main feature – Hooks.

This version opens up endless possibilities for AMM customisation, including dynamic fees, MEV protection, flexible liquidity management mechanisms, which allows you to build not just add-ons to Uniswap, but full-fledged protocols on top of it.

Moreover, Uniswap sets a vector not only in DeFi. For example, projects such as Flaunch, a launchpad for memecoins with a fair auction, demonstrate that its application goes far beyond traditional DEX.

I think the next big trend is the deeper modularity of DeFi protocols and the integration of custom mechanics into liquidity. V4 allows you to create products with your own algorithms for pricing, asynchronous exchange, and flexible liquidity management, which can significantly change the DeFi market in the coming years.

Memecoin automation: a new opportunity or a risk bubble?

– The recent launch of pump.fun on mobile devices has made it clear that creating memecoins is easier than ever. Your projects from the last two hackathons also simplify this process. Is there a risk that this ease of token issuance will lead to a massive bubble? Isn’t Web3 turning into a fast food industry?

Yurii: Indeed, one of our projects really simplified the creation of memecoins by using AI agents.

We saw that memecoins and AI are two of the most dynamic areas in Web3 right now, so we decided to combine these trends by exploring their synergy and possible impact on the market. The ease of creation will certainly lead to an increase in the number of tokens, and not all of them will have a good foundation or utility. However, I do not believe that the fight against low-quality projects should be to make it artificially difficult to create them.

Web3 is still in the process of improving the user experience, and our task is to make it more accessible to newcomers. Restrictions and barriers are not the answer – it is more important to teach people to distinguish quality and understand value.

It’s just like with food: instead of banning fast food, we teach children to choose healthy food. Web3 should do the same – not block, but raise awareness.

Memecoins vs. trust in Web3

– Do memecoins discredit the Web3 industry in the eyes of people who want to become developers and investors? How do the events around Libra, $TRUMP, CZ, and other similar cases affect the trust in the technology?

Yurii: I do not believe that memecoins as a class of tokens discredit the Web3 industry. They can have healthy mechanics and utilities. Think of them as promotional flyers or a PR campaign for a project.

If you want to quickly attract the attention of the audience and form a community, memecoins can effectively play this role. Moreover, memes are closer to a wide audience – both for ordinary users and enthusiasts who want to launch something of their own, even if it is of a fan nature.

As for the discrediting of Web3 in general, this issue does not apply only to memecoins. Any project whose main goal is to deceive users harms the industry’s reputation. Whether it’s a memecoin or a Layer 1 blockchain that existed only on paper, raised millions through an ICO, and disappeared, the principle is the same. Yes, due to the ease of token creation, this tool has indeed become more accessible to scammers, and rag pulls are now happening more often. But, as in the previous question, the solution is not in bans but in education.

DYOR (Do Your Own Research) remains a key principle for all Web3 participants.

The post All you wanted to know from web3 developer, but hesitated to ask appeared first on CryptoSlate.

Celestia’s (TIA) 30% Price Crash Triggers Record Outflows in 2025

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Celestia (TIA) has recently experienced a significant drawdown, losing nearly 30% of its value in the past two weeks. This decline has been attributed to the broader bearish market conditions, which caused panic among investors.

As a result, many TIA holders decided to pull their funds, adding to the downward pressure on the price.

Celestia Holders Opt To Back Out

The Chaikin Money Flow (CMF) indicator has shown significant outflows from Celestia, marking the largest selling activity since the beginning of 2025. This reflects the growing fear among investors after the 30% price correction.

However, despite the negative sentiment, there has been an uptick in the CMF recently, indicating that some new investors are beginning to see value in the low prices. These inflows could potentially help stabilize the price and set the stage for a recovery.

Celestia CMF. Source: TradingView

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) for Celestia shows that cryptocurrency is currently on a bearish trend. Stuck below the neutral line at 50.0, the RSI is moving closer to the oversold threshold of 30.0. Historically, when an asset reaches this level, it is considered a signal for a potential reversal, as selling typically slows, and accumulation begins.

If the RSI falls below 30, it could trigger buying interest, as many traders may view the low prices as an opportunity to enter the market.

The current state of the RSI suggests that while bearish momentum is still strong, the conditions are ripe for a reversal. If the selling pressure wanes and buyers begin to step in, Celestia’s price could find support and begin an upward move.

Celestia RSI. Source: TradingView TIA Price Could Be Looking At Recovery

Celestia is currently priced at $2.62, reflecting a nearly 30% decline over the past two weeks. It is holding just above the critical support level of $2.53. If the market sentiment improves and the RSI hits the oversold zone, there is potential for a recovery.

The influx of new investors could provide the momentum needed to drive the price higher.

A successful bounce from the $2.53 support level could see Celestia pushing through $2.73 and heading towards $2.99. This would signal the beginning of a recovery rally and possibly set the stage for further price appreciation as market conditions improve.

Celestia Price Analysis. Source: TradingView

However, if Celestia fails to hold the $2.53 support, it could trigger a further decline towards $2.27. This would invalidate the bullish outlook, prolonging the downtrend and extending investors’ losses.

The post Celestia’s (TIA) 30% Price Crash Triggers Record Outflows in 2025 appeared first on BeInCrypto.

President Trump May Trigger Decorrelation Between Bitcoin and the Nasdaq, According to Macro Guru Luke Gromen

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 11:45:46 +0000

Macro investor Luke Gromen says that the White House may have caused a massive change in the way that Bitcoin (BTC) trades.

In a new interview with Natalie Brunell on the Coin Stories podcast, Gromen calls attention to the America First Investment Policy, a memo released by the Trump Administration in February that aims to make the US foreign investment policies more cautious and conscious of national security.

Gromen, the founder of the macroeconomic research firm Forest for the Trees (FFTT), says that the memo essentially directs China to “take your money and go home, we don’t want it here anymore.”

With all of the foreign capital invested in US markets, Gromen says the Nasdaq index will likely suffer capital outflows while Bitcoin – as a neutral global asset essentially exempt from tariffs or political agendas – will shine, breaking the correlation between the two assets.

“That, I think will ultimately be a catalyst to the separation of Bitcoin and Nasdaq, and that, I think, is starting to drive Nasdaq down – it has a long way to go because multiples are high – and in the short run, traders control the flows…

Bitcoin is levered Nasdaq, I get it; it’s a high-beta Nasdaq, in the short run. If you back up to a five-year or ten-year chart, you can see very clearly these periods where Bitcoin has massively outperformed Nasdaq, but they still tend to go directionally similarly, when Bitcoin’s up Nasdaq’s up and vice versa…

The America First Investment Policy memo, I think, will start to break that correlation because I think right now in the short run, that correlation is holding, [but] at some point I think capital flow is going to see Bitcoin for what it is which is a neutral reserve asset linked to energy, uncontrollable by any govenment and I think it’ll start siphoning some flows off from Nasdaq as America continues to say, ‘Listen, you want to invest in some factories here? Great, otherwise, get out.’

And that’s a lot of capital that’s got to get out, and we’re seeing gold benefit already. I think what we’re seeing in gold is a precursor to what we’ll see in Bitcoin.”

At time of writing, Bitcoin is worth $83,233.

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Disclaimer: Opinions expressed at The Daily Hodl are not investment advice. Investors should do their due diligence before making any high-risk investments in Bitcoin, cryptocurrency or digital assets. Please be advised that your transfers and trades are at your own risk, and any losses you may incur are your responsibility. The Daily Hodl does not recommend the buying or selling of any cryptocurrencies or digital assets, nor is The Daily Hodl an investment advisor. Please note that The Daily Hodl participates in affiliate marketing.

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The post President Trump May Trigger Decorrelation Between Bitcoin and the Nasdaq, According to Macro Guru Luke Gromen appeared first on The Daily Hodl.

Robert Kiyosaki Warns Biggest Market Crash Has Arrived, Suggests Three ‘Non-Wall Street’ Assets To Weather Storm

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 09:15:58 +0000

Rich Dad Poor Dad author Robert Kiyosaki says that the stock market meltdown that he predicted years ago is now underway.

The best-selling personal finance author tells his 2.7 million followers on the social media platform X that he thinks the US is staring at the possibility of entering a period of severe economic depression.

“In my book Rich Dad’s Prophecy, I warned that the biggest stock market crash in history was going to wipe out the financial security of millions of investors… That stock market crash arrived today. We are definitely in a RECESSION and more than likely…a DEPRESSION.”

Kiyosaki says he sees three “non-Wall Street” assets coming out on top amid the stock market collapse.

“What can a person do?

As I have been suggesting for years, I suggest looking at non-WALL STREET assets.

For many years, I have suggested saving real gold, real silver, and today BITCOIN.”

Kiyosaki says that the Fed and the Treasury will likely debase the US dollar in an effort to prop up the economy. He notes that dollar debasement will lead to inflation and higher prices for scarce assets like gold, silver and Bitcoin (BTC).

“WHY: Because after this paper market crash wipes out millions of fake paper assets. Odds are the Fed and Treasury will turn the printing presses on FULL SPEED, printing trillions in fake money, which becomes even more FAKE. And real money – Gold, Silver, and Bitcoin – go up in value.

Remember, gold, silver, and Bitcoin ARE NOT going up in price. What is happening is the dollar is going down in value, causing everything of value, such as food, housing and energy to become more expensive, a.k.a. INFLATION…

Take care. There are going to be rough storms ahead.”

At time of writing, Bitcoin is trading for $83,416.

Generated Image: Midjourney

The post Robert Kiyosaki Warns Biggest Market Crash Has Arrived, Suggests Three ‘Non-Wall Street’ Assets To Weather Storm appeared first on The Daily Hodl.

No Short-term Rally, Bitcoin Bull Cycle is Over: CryptoQuant CEO Issues Warning

admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 07:17:34 +0000

The post No Short-term Rally, Bitcoin Bull Cycle is Over: CryptoQuant CEO Issues Warning appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Bitcoin’s price has been stuck in a range, with its last trade above $90,000 occurring on March 7. By the end of the previous year, Bitcoin had surpassed the $100,000 mark, but this milestone was short-lived as the price quickly fell. Since then, Bitcoin has been on a downward trend, even dipping below $80,000.

Adding to the market’s struggles, President Trump’s tariff announcement put additional pressure on the crypto space, causing most cryptocurrencies to suffer alongside Bitcoin.

According toCryptoQuant CEO Ki Young Ju, Bitcoin bull market appears to be over, based on on-chain data analysis. The key metric is Realized Cap, which measures the actual capital entering the market by tracking when BTC is bought (entered a wallet) and sold (left a wallet).

“But when sell pressure is high, even large purchases fail to move the price. There are simply too many sellers. For example, when Bitcoin was trading near $100K, the market saw massive volumes, but the price barely moved,” he explained.

When the Realized Cap grows but the Market Cap (based on the latest trading price) stays flat or drops, it signals that money is flowing in, but prices aren’t responding—this is a bearish sign. Right now, that’s exactly what’s happening.

In contrast, if small amounts of new capital push prices up, it’s a bullish market. But currently, even large amounts of capital aren’t enough to move Bitcoin’s price, indicating a bear market. Historically, real market reversals take at least six months, so a quick recovery is unlikely.

“In short: when small capital drives prices up, it’s a bull market. When even large capital can’t push prices upward, it’s a bear. Current data clearly points to the latter. Sell pressure could ease anytime, but historically, real reversals take at least six months—so a short-term rally seems unlikely,” he concluded.

The stablecoin regulation wars: can Tether stay on top?

admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:00:58 +0000

The following is a guest post and opinion of Anastasija Plotnikova, CEO and Co-Founder of Fideum.

2025 has been dubbed “the year of the stablecoin,” with stablecoins surging in popularity and gaining ground globally, especially under the new crypto-friendly U.S. administration.

Leading fiat-backed stablecoins USDT and USDC hold 92% of the market share. Tether, the issuer of USDT, has grown to a market cap of over $140 billion, supporting more than 400 million users, particularly in underbanked regions.

However, Tether’s dominance is facing increasing competition. Well-established and new competitors are eager to grab market share, and new regulatory hurdles are adding pressure, particularly in markets like the European Union. This raises a critical question: Can Tether hold onto its place as the dominant stablecoin amid growing regulatory pressures and competition?

The EU and Tether

Tether’s USDT was recently delisted from exchanges in the EU due to non-compliance with the new Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations, which took effect at the end of last year. The regulations require stablecoins to meet stringent transparency and licensing rules, and companies issuing stablecoins in the EU must hold an electronic money institution (EMI) license and, if fiat-backed, ensure a 1:1 reserve ratio.

Tether’s delisting has caused significant disruptions in the European market, reducing EU residents’ access to stablecoins. Tether responded by accusing the EU of “rushed actions” and creating “a disorderly market,” although MiCA had been in development for years, and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) had warned exchanges since last summer. Ten stablecoin issuers were approved for operation under MiCA, but Tether was not among them.

Will the US be any friendlier?

The EU is not the only region where Tether faces regulatory challenges. Recently, the U.S. Senate Banking Committee voted to send the GENIUS Act — legislation for payments-focused stablecoins — to the full Senate. The bill would bring issuers of U.S. dollar-denominated stablecoins with market caps over $10 billion under U.S. federal regulations. Foreign stablecoin issuers, such as Tether, will face stricter reserve, liquidity, and anti-money laundering requirements compared to domestic issuers.

Only two issuers meet the market cap requirements for federal regulation as laid out in the bill — Tether and Circle. The latter, a U.S.-domiciled issuer, has announced it can comply with the bill’s requirements. However, Tether, which is domiciled in El Salvador, lacks a formal U.S. presence and may struggle to meet these new standards. This leaves Tether vulnerable to additional regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. as well.

Competitors rush to fill the gaps

As Tether faces mounting regulatory challenges, competitors are seizing the opportunity. Among the emerging challengers is Reeve Collins, Tether’s co-founder, who recently announced the launch of Pi Protocol, a yield-bearing stablecoin backed by real-world assets.

Pi Protocol aims to debut on Ethereum and Solana blockchains in 2025. While Pi Protocol may not fully comply with MiCA regulations, its yield-bearing structure offers advantages, particularly in the U.S. market, where the SEC approved yield-bearing stablecoins in February.

Competitors like Collins’ Pi Protocol may see Tether’s regulatory issues as a chance to capture market share. Tether’s CEO Paolo Ardoino has expressed confidence in this possibility, claiming that many competitors’ real aim is to “Kill Tether.”

The stablecoin storm is unleashed

Can Tether survive the growing competition and mounting regulatory pressures? Until now, Tether has faced minimal disruption due to its significantly dominant market share, leading the stablecoin category in terms of market cap, as well as 24 hour trading volume, by a wide margin. However, as global regulations catch up and new players enter the scene, Tether will need to navigate the challenges ahead carefully. The outcome could be the fragmentation of the global stablecoin markets and a split between unregulated and regulated options.

The post The stablecoin regulation wars: can Tether stay on top? appeared first on CryptoSlate.

Dollar-Pegged Stablecoins ‘Advance a Commercial or Consumer Purpose’ and Are Not Securities, U.S. SEC Clarifies

admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:00:29 +0000

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is clarifying its stance on stablecoins under the Trump Administration.

In a new press release, the regulatory agency says that non-yield-bearing stablecoins do not qualify as securities that fall under its jurisdiction because they “advance a commercial or consumer purpose.”

According to the SEC, stablecoins aren’t securities because those who purchase them do not expect a return on their investment. Instead, they seek to use the digital assets to purchase goods and services and/or as stores of value.

Furthermore, the agency says that dollar-pegged crypto assets are not distributed in a manner that encourages speculation or investing.

“Covered stablecoins are marketed solely for use in commerce, as a means of making payments, transmitting money, and/or storing value, and not as investments.”

However, the SEC has left the door open to considering alternative types of stablecoins – such as those that are yield-bearing, of the algorithmic variety, or pegged to non-USD assets – as securities, noting that its new stance on dollar-pegged assets doesn’t apply to these types of products and they have yet to formulate a view on the matter.

Under the Biden Administration and the helm of former Chair Gary Gensler, the SEC filed numerous high-profile lawsuits against crypto firms such as Kraken, Coinbase, Consensys and Ripple Labs and didn’t approve the launch of Bitcoin (BTC)-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs) until pressured to do so by a judge.

Furthermore, under Gensler, the SEC counted the majority of digital assets, excluding BTC, as securities that fell under its regulatory jurisdiction.

Gensler was replaced by former SEC Commissioner Mark Uyeda, who is currently serving as the agency’s Acting Chairman.

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The post Dollar-Pegged Stablecoins ‘Advance a Commercial or Consumer Purpose’ and Are Not Securities, U.S. SEC Clarifies appeared first on The Daily Hodl.

Solana Altcoin Saros Rises 1000% in March, Forms New All-Time Highs

admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 17:30:00 +0000

Saros, the Solana-based altcoin, has been on an impressive uptrend over the past month. The token’s price has formed new all-time highs (ATHs) nearly every day throughout March.

However, with the momentum showing signs of slowing, investors are wondering if this rally is nearing its end.

SAROS Refrains From Following Bitcoin

The correlation between Saros and Bitcoin (BTC) is currently negative, sitting at -0.43. This negative correlation has worked in Saros’ favor, as it allowed the altcoin to perform well during Bitcoin’s struggles throughout March. While Bitcoin faced significant declines, Saros was able to rally largely due to this inverse relationship.

The shifting dynamics between Bitcoin and Saros will be key to the future price movement of the altcoin. Should Bitcoin regain its upward momentum, Saros may face increased selling pressure. This is because the negative correlation that has benefited Saros may reverse, impacting the altcoin’s ability to maintain its upward trajectory.

SAROS Correlation to Bitcoin. Source: TradingView

The overall macro momentum of Saros shows that investor interest has remained strong. The Chaikin Money Flow (CMF) indicator has been increasing steadily over the past month, signaling consistent inflows.

Recently, it crossed the saturation threshold of 0.7, a level that has historically led to price corrections. This suggests that while Saros has experienced significant gains, the market may be nearing an overbought condition. If profit-taking begins, a price pullback is highly probable for the altcoin.

SAROS CMF. Source: TradingView SAROS Price Rise Continues

Saros has surged by an astounding 1,024% since the beginning of March, trading at $0.153 as of now. Throughout March, the altcoin has formed new ATHs almost daily, reflecting strong investor sentiment and demand.

The current ATH stands at $0.163, and the momentum could continue pushing the price upwards, potentially reaching $0.200 if the uptrend remains intact. However, as the price continues to rise, the risk of profit-taking increases.

SAROS Price Analysis. Source: TradingView

If Saros faces such a pullback, it could fall back towards the $0.100 support level. If the altcoin loses this key support, the price could drop further to $0.055, invalidating the bullish outlook. Investors should keep an eye on these levels as they will help determine whether the current rally is sustainable.

The post Solana Altcoin Saros Rises 1000% in March, Forms New All-Time Highs appeared first on BeInCrypto.

Memecoins broke crypto—now they might fix it

admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 17:00:16 +0000

The following is a guest post and opinion of Shibtoshi, Founder of SquidGrow.

Memecoins have created unprecedented chaos within the crypto industry. Most analysts see the chaos as a binary — some criticize memecoins as mere speculative assets, while others defend them for challenging low-float-high FDV VC-backed tokens.

But we need a new perspective. One that breaks the binary, accepting memecoins as speculative assets and a statement against VC tokens, leading to chaotic market scenarios. Acknowledging memecoins’ potential to breed chaos, it identifies chaos as the birthstone of a new utility-driven token economy.

Memecoin chaos is good for the industry

Memecoins led investor mindshare in 2024 and emerged as the most popular market narrative. Driven by relatable humor, collective mimetic desire, and virality, the memecoin market rose to $137 billion in December 2024.

Unlike high-value token launches of VC-backed coins denying fair entry to retail investors, memecoins offer an equitable playing field. No wonder more than 42% of investors were first-time buyers when US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump launched their memecoins.

At Consensys 2024, Riva Tez of LayerZero Labs explained that memecoins help crypto win the ‘narrative war’ due to their resonance with common people. Indeed, for memecoins, speculation is a vital use-case and essential feature of its functionality.

But empty speculation can also be a bug. That’s what happened with memecoins, as its market cap dropped by 60% to around $53 billion in March 2025. Although external factors like geopolitical tensions and global trade wars negatively affected market activity, some intrinsic issues also contributed to memecoins’ collapse.

Malicious actors duped gullible retailers and extracted capital through scams like rug pulls, fake presales, pump-and-dump schemes, and phishing attacks. The collapse of the Libra token, endorsed by Argentine President Javier Milei, was the final nail in the coffin. It wiped out $4 billion of retail money and eroded investor confidence.

Everything was good with memecoins until it wasn’t. The market descended into complete chaos. But the memecoin chaos initiated a much-needed churning within the industry. Stakeholders realized memecoins wouldn’t succeed in the long term with their speculative potential and as an alternative to VC tokens.

The memecoin chaos serves as a wake-up call, albeit a delayed one. Chaotic markets led investors and token developers to realize the necessity of a utility-driven token economy for sustainable value generation. Without altering memecoins’ core thesis, stakeholders must use the chaos as an opportunity to plug utilities into the memecoin market.

Harnessing the potential of chaos

During the Memecoin Supercycle keynote speech at Token2049 Singapore, Murad said the token is the product. In a chaotic memecoin market, the token itself is not enough to drive value for investors. Instead, token developers must leverage the product and find new avenues to monetize them.

Memecoins are still isolated in a closed circular economy, with investors rotating between different tokens on trading apps to book profits. To stabilize the memecoin chaos, they must diversify into yield farming, staking, and liquid staking options to generate fresh market liquidity.

In other words, memecoins must break free from a gambler’s epiphany of creating generational wealth to become DeFi’s key product. Investors must also stop perceiving memecoins as chips in a casino and instead deploy them in financial markets.

The memecoin chaos demonstrates the need to expand from a product to a fully operational crypto ecosystem. The product must be a foundational stone to build utility-focused dapps for solving real-world problems.

For example, a memecoin project can launch a a decentralized application or SaaS tool to cater to the broader DeFi audience. The exchange can redirect the profits into the memecoin as buybacks, maintaining a steady capital flow to prevent price crashes.

Most of the memecoin chaos has resulted from rug pulls and pump-and-dump schemes, eroding investor trust in the asset class. Memecoin projects can restore confidence by building tools that solves pain points in the market such as liquidity lockers.

On a different note, the memecoin community holds the key to chaos. Highly paid project ambassadors, celebrity content creators, and influencers often care little about the project beyond their paychecks. They’ll bulk-purchase tokens and dump them at the slightest hint of a price crash or insider tip-offs.

Thus, memecoin chaos is an important reminder to focus on building an organic and well-knit community. This community will provide unwavering support to the memecoin ecosystem, bolster its utilities, and safeguard the token from abrupt price activity.

After the chaos subsides, meme tokens shouldn’t abandon their fun quotient to imitate serious financial instruments. Instead, the chaos is a clarion call to merge utility with humor to develop an inclusive and sustainable financial ecosystem.

In the Pulitzer-nominated book, ‘Chaos: Making a New Science,’ James Gleick wrote, “Chaos is a science of process rather than state, of becoming rather than being.” The memecoin chaos is also undergoing a scientific process of becoming a utility-driven meme economy from being a purely speculative asset with no intrinsic value.

For the crypto industry, the memecoin chaos is a moment of reckoning. From here on, meme tokens will usher in a new era of on-chain finance.

The post Memecoins broke crypto—now they might fix it appeared first on CryptoSlate.

Malta Slaps OKX Crypto Exchange With $1,155,000 Fine Over Anti-Money-Laundering Violations

admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 16:20:01 +0000

The crypto exchange OKX is dealing with more regulatory issues.

Malta’s Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) slapped the exchange with a €1.054 million fine ($1.155 million) for multiple compliance violations, including “failing to adequately assess” money-laundering/terrorism-financing risks associated with its products.

The FIAU, which probed the exchange in 2023, also claims OKX didn’t conduct reliable customer risk assessments (CRAs).

“The company was found to have failed to carry out a CRA upon establishing a business relationship for around 50% of the customer files reviewed as part of the compliance examination. Despite the company’s submissions that a CRA was conducted at onboarding for these customers, the evidence collected indicates that such clients had deposited thousands of dollars before a CRA was completed, with such assessment being conducted several months following onboarding.”

The Maltese regulator did commend OKX for “significant improvements undertaken and implemented over the past 18 months” but deemed that an administrative penalty was still required due to the exchange’s “serious and systematic” past failures.

OKX received its European Union (EU) Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) license in Malta earlier this year.

MiCA is new EU legislation that establishes rules covering the supervision, consumer protection and environmental safeguards of crypto assets.

The regulatory framework, which took effect in December, includes measures that aim to reduce financial crimes, including market manipulation, money laundering and terrorist financing. It also places stablecoin issuers under the European Banking Authority and requires them to hold sufficient liquid reserves.

In addition to the new FAIU fine, OKX has also gotten into hot water with other regulators recently regarding its decentralized exchange (DEX) aggregator.

Traders use data from DEX aggregators to find the best-priced trades across various decentralized exchanges.

In February, hackers stole a staggering $1.4 billion worth of Ethereum (ETH) and Lido Staked Ether (stETH) from the crypto exchange Bybit. Pseudonymous on-chain investigator ZachXBT linked the exploit to the Lazarus Group, an infamous North Korean cybercriminal outfit.

Ben Zhao, Bybit’s chief executive, said in March that $100 million worth of the stolen ETH was moved through OKX’s web3 proxy.

OKX said it detected a coordinated effort by the Lazarus Group to misuse its decentralized finance (DeFi) services and noted that it had made the “proactive decision” to temporarily suspend its DEX aggregator services after consulting with regulators.

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The post Malta Slaps OKX Crypto Exchange With $1,155,000 Fine Over Anti-Money-Laundering Violations appeared first on The Daily Hodl.