Considered the pillar of the cryptocurrency market, Ethereum’s distributed finance (DeFi) ecosystem has seen a significant fall recently. Over the previous thirty days, data shows a $29 billion drop in the overall value locked (TVL) inside Ethereum-based DeFi systems. Along with a clear increase in the Bitcoin (BTC) to Ethereum (ETH) ratio, which marks new highs and suggests a possible change in investor attitude and capital allocation, this shrinkage aligns with The notable decline in Ethereum’s DeFi TVL begs questions about the platform’s short-term viability as well as the general state of the DeFi industry. The $29 billion drop shows a decrease in the assets locked under different DeFi systems, including yield aggregators, distributed exchanges (DEXs), and lending platforms. Several elements can help to explain this decline: market volatility, profit-taking, and maybe a movement toward alternate investment prospects. The growing BTC/ETH ratio is the main cause of Ethereum’s DeFi problems. Measuring the relative worth of Bitcoin to Ethereum, this ratio has never seen such highs. Rising BTC/ETH ratios historically indicate that investors are choosing Bitcoin, sometimes regarded as a safer refuge, over Ethereum and the related ecosystem. As investors reallocate their money, this change in taste might cause capital outflows from Ethereum-based DeFi systems. One can ascribe the increase in the BTC/ ETH ratio to a convergence of elements. The rising acceptance of Bitcoin as an institutional asset combined with its alleged store-of-value qualities has drawn large investments in cryptocurrency. Furthermore, legislative ambiguities about several facets of the Ethereum ecosystem, especially about its staking systems and its security classifications, could be attracting investors toward Bitcoin. This reduction of the DeFi market and the increasing BTC/ETH ratio have major consequences. Should Ethereum’s DeFi TVL continue to drop, liquidity may suffer, volatility may rise, and the ecosystem may become disrupted. Moreover, a protracted dominance of Bitcoin could impede the expansion and creativity of Ethereum-based DeFi initiatives. Although Ethereum’s DeFi industry faces difficulties in the current market, it is important to understand the fluid character of the cryptocurrency market. TVL and asset ratios fluctuate widely, and DeFi’s long-term promise is still rather high. Ethereum’s DeFi ecosystem will probably change and grow as regulatory clarity gets better and technology developments keep on. Still, the present trend emphasizes the need for alertness and strategic adaptability inside the DeFi scene.

Institutional interest in the crypto market has grown significantly hence Coinbase released a recent survey concerning the rise in crypto adoption. On March 18th, Coinbase and EY-Parthenon released a report that 83% of institutional investors have plans to boost their crypto exposure in 2025. Currently, close to 75% of firms own a substantial stake in the crypto industry. Aside from Bitcoin and Ether, these firms plan to raise their digital asset holdings by at least 5%. According to the report, “investors are motivated by the view that cryptocurrencies are some of the biggest opportunities for generating massive risk-adjusted returns over the next three years.” Coinbase Partners With EY-Parthenon Top crypto exchange Coinbase recently partnered with EY-Parthenon to carry out a survey. These two institutions interviewed over 350 retail investors in January. Based on the interviews carried out, it shows that institutional trades show a preference for XRP and Solana as their top altcoin choices. Moreover, a noteworthy 59% of the respondents intend to manage over 5% of their assets under management (AUM) towards cryptocurrencies. This shows that institutions are willing to include digital assets in their investing plans. A number of elements are fueling this growing interest. Mostly, people feel that cryptocurrencies provide the possibility for appealing risk-adjusted returns. Moreover, increasing regulatory clarity is helping institutional investors gain confidence so they may negotiate the crypto terrain with more comfort. Furthermore adding to their attraction are the growing number of actual use cases for digital assets and blockchain technologies. The poll also revealed an increasing fascination with distributed finance (DeFi). Within the next two years, there are forecasts that up to 75% of institutions may be actively utilizing DeFi technologies. This shows a major change toward appreciating the creative financial models provided by distributed technologies. The market for cryptocurrencies is greatly altered by this increase in institutional involvement. The flood of institutional money is supposed to propel market expansion, hence boosting market capitalization and liquidity.  Final Thoughts The emergence of more stable cryptocurrencies due to increased institutional participation could also help to lower volatility and build long-term confidence in the market. As institutions adopt cryptocurrencies, it will help to validate the asset class and promote more general acceptance among other market players including ordinary investors. The findings of this poll highlight how increasingly accepted cryptocurrencies are as a valid and worthwhile asset class. It is obvious that institutional investors will be very important in determining the direction of digital finance as long-evolving regulatory systems and developing technologies develop.

Crypto.com is facing a storm of criticism after a controversial vote led to the reversal of a 70 billion CRO token burn on its Cronos blockchain. The decision raised concerns about vote manipulation, with many in the community accusing the company of undermining decentralization efforts. Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek defended the company’s financial stability amidst the growing controversy surrounding the re-issuance of the 70 billion CRO tokens. This move effectively cancels the massive token burn announced in 2021, which was part of a plan to decentralize the network ahead of the CRO mainnet launch. The 2021 token burn, initially hailed as “the largest token burn in history,” aimed to reduce the CRO supply, with 59.6 billion tokens burned immediately. The remaining tokens were set aside for future burns, rewards, and ecosystem development. The reversal of this burn sparked outrage, with many community members questioning why Crypto.com didn’t use its profits to buy back tokens from the market to support its loyal users instead. The decision to bring back the burned tokens was made public on March 2 with a proposal for a Cronos Strategic Reserve, which would re-issue the tokens into an escrow wallet, bringing the total supply back to 100 billion CRO. The vote was met with negative feedback, with many users voicing that the re-issuance goes against the community’s wishes. Despite this, the vote passed, raising suspicions of vote manipulation. The $5 billion plan, based on CRO’s current price of $0.08, is said to boost U.S. crypto dominance, fund ecosystem growth, and launch a CRO exchange-traded fund (ETF). However, many fear it undermines the 2021 burn, which drove CRO’s price from $0.06 to $0.25 by reducing token supply. Critics see the proposal as a betrayal of that moment, arguing that bringing back burned tokens dilutes value and damages trust. Accusations surfaced that Crypto.com holds too much control over the vote, with reports suggesting that the company controls up to 70%–80% of the total voting power, making the vote outcome almost a foregone conclusion. In response to the backlash, Crypto.com announced an upcoming AMA (ask-me-anything) event on March 25, with the token burn issue expected to dominate the discussion.  

Miami, Florida, March 19th, 2025, FinanceWire Next Layer Capital has officially become a member of Bitcoin for Corporations (BFC), an initiative led by BTC Inc to accelerate corporate Bitcoin adoption. This strategic move aligns the firm with a corporate network of teams integrating and advancing Bitcoin initiatives. Next Layer Capital’s Role in the Digital Asset Ecosystem  Headquartered in Miami and New York City, Next Layer Capital brings together a team of Digital Asset and traditional finance experts in one entity. Their diversified expertise enables the firm to offer comprehensive services that assist both corporations and family offices with their Digital Asset goals.Their proficiency has led them to the development of turn key digital asset allocation strategies. Additionally, Next Layer Capital provides institutional-grade financing solutions, crafting alternative capital structures that incorporate Bitcoin, thereby enhancing financial flexibility. The firm also optimizes deal structuring using ai-agent workflows in their backend to ensure efficient transaction processes. This multifaceted approach positions Next Layer Capital as a pivotal player in facilitating Bitcoin adoption. Bitcoin for Corporations: An Organization Dedicated to Advancing Institutional Adoption Bitcoin for Corporations serves as a key organization for businesses seeking to incorporate Bitcoin into their balance sheets and treasury strategies. The initiative connects corporate leaders with industry experts, offering education, financial models, and execution frameworks to facilitate large-scale adoption. By joining BFC, Next Layer Capital strengthens its role in expanding the Bitcoin ecosystem, by offering advisory services that support corporate adoption. Strategy’s Aggressive Bitcoin Accumulation The announcement of Next Layer Capital’s membership in BFC coincides with significant developments in the institutional Bitcoin landscape. Notably, Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) has continued its aggressive Bitcoin accumulation strategy. As of Mar 18, 2025, Strategy holds approximately 499,096 bitcoin, totaling nearly $27.95 billion in investment. To further bolster its Bitcoin holdings, Strategy recently unveiled plans to raise up to $42 billion, underscoring the company’s commitment to Bitcoin as a primary treasury reserve asset. Other Public Companies Embracing an Ongoing Bitcoin Treasury Strategy The following public companies are actively incorporating Bitcoin into their corporate treasury strategies: MicroStrategy: The largest corporate holder of Bitcoin, with 499,096 BTC, valued at approximately $40.96 billion as of March 2025. Metaplanet: A Japan-based hotel business that has integrated Bitcoin into its corporate treasury, holding 3,200 BTC, valued at approximately $262.84 million as of March 2025. Semler Scientific: A medical technology company that develops healthcare diagnostic solutions, holding 3,192 BTC, valued at approximately $261.98 million as of March 2025. Notable companies with Bitcoin on their balance sheet: Tesla, Inc: The electric vehicle manufacturer currently holds 11,509 BTC, valued at approximately $944.59 million as of March 2025. Marathon Digital Holdings Inc.: One of the world’s largest Bitcoin mining companies, holding approximately 40,435 BTC, valued at $3.32 billion as of March 2025. Coinbase Global Inc.: A leading cryptocurrency exchange and custodian, holding 9,000 BTC, valued at approximately $738.67 million as of March 2025. These developments indicate a broader acceptance of Bitcoin as a legitimate corporate asset class. Advancing the Institutional Bitcoin Narrative “Digital assets, like Bitcoin and Stablecoins more specifically, are reshaping financial strategies at both the corporate and sovereign levels,” said Brandon Turp, Co-Founder at Next Layer Capital. “Joining Bitcoin for Corporations is a step toward providing the expertise necessary for corporations and family offices to integrate Bitcoin effectively.” As macroeconomic pressures drive increased demand for non-sovereign financial assets, Next Layer Capital’s participation in Bitcoin for Corporations marks a significant milestone in the evolution of corporate Bitcoin adoption. Corporations and family offices interested in exploring Digital Asset Strategies, like Bitcoin and Stablecoin integration, are encouraged to consider Next Layer Capital’s advisory services. This development highlights the growing institutional acceptance of Bitcoin and reflects a broader shift toward digital asset integration in corporate finance. About Next Layer Next Layer Capital is a digital asset advisory firm that provides institutional-grade capital markets solutions to corporations, family offices, and nation-states looking to gain exposure to the digital asset ecosystem. Founded in 2024, the firm is dedicated to accelerating the global adoption of Bitcoin and digital assets. Contact Co-Founder Brandon Turp Next Layer Capital turp@nextlayer.capital Disclaimer: This content is provided by a sponsor. FinanceFeeds does not independently verify the legitimacy, credibility, claims, or financial viability of the information or description of services mentioned. As such, we bear no responsibility for any potential risks, inaccuracies, or misleading representations related to the content. This post does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation and should not be treated as such. We strongly advise seeking independent financial guidance from a qualified and regulated professional before engaging in any investment or financial activities. Please review our full disclaimer for more details.

New York, United States, March 19th, 2025, Chainwire Arda, a company developing a universal operating system for real estate, has raised $3 million in a pre-seed funding round led by Lightshift. The investment supports Arda’s initiative to enhance efficiency in the $380 trillion real estate sector by addressing its fragmented and opaque infrastructure. Arda is building a digital framework designed to unify real estate assets, data, and financial services into a single, interoperable system. Leveraging AI and blockchain technology, the platform aims to reduce transaction times and enhance transparency by enabling real-time ownership and financial processes. A Purpose-Built Digital Infrastructure for Real Estate Arda’s platform introduces a programmable execution layer for real estate, integrating digital rights management, AI-driven automation, and seamless data interoperability. Key features include: Digital Asset Profiles: A verifiable record of property history to streamline due diligence. Real-Time Money Movement: Payments directly linked to transactions for improved settlement efficiency. Integrated Data and Automation: Automated workflows reducing administrative friction in asset management. Industry Leadership and Institutional Backing Arda was founded by Oli Harris, former Managing Director in Digital Assets at Goldman Sachs and Head of Crypto Assets Strategy at JPMorgan Chase. Harris played a key role in the development and commercialization of Quorum, an enterprise Ethereum platform, and contributed to institutional digital asset adoption. His experience includes board positions at Anchorage, BitGo, Blockdaemon, and TRM Labs. “Real estate remains one of the most valuable yet operationally fragmented asset classes,” said Oli Harris, Founder & CEO of Arda. “By creating a programmable, trust-based system, we aim to bring real estate transactions in line with modern digital financial infrastructure.” A Market Evolving Toward Digitization As institutional investment in digital assets grows, governments and industry leaders are exploring frameworks for secure, verifiable digital property transactions. Regions such as the Gulf are advancing adoption, while U.S. policymakers are shaping regulations to integrate digital assets into mainstream financial systems. “We invest in founders who are building the foundations of next-generation industries,” said Simao Cruz, Founding Partner at Lightshift. “Arda is developing purpose-built infrastructure that could redefine how real estate is owned, transacted, and financed.” About Arda Arda is developing a real estate operating system designed for institutions, enterprises, and governments. Its platform enables digital interoperability, automated transactions, and real-time execution in the global real estate sector. Founded by Oli Harris, Arda is backed by investors supporting the evolution of digital real estate infrastructure. For more information, users can follow @arda_labs on X (Twitter) or contact contact@arda.xyz. About Lightshift Lightshift is a venture firm investing in early-stage companies focused on digital infrastructure and programmable assets. The firm partners with founders to provide capital, technical expertise, and strategic insights for market-defining innovation. For more information, users can visit www.lightshift.xyz or contact katy.campbell@lightshift.xyz. Contact CEO and Founder Oliver Harris Arda oli@arda.xyz Disclaimer: This content is provided by a sponsor. FinanceFeeds does not independently verify the legitimacy, credibility, claims, or financial viability of the information or description of services mentioned. As such, we bear no responsibility for any potential risks, inaccuracies, or misleading representations related to the content. This post does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation and should not be treated as such. We strongly advise seeking independent financial guidance from a qualified and regulated professional before engaging in any investment or financial activities. Please review our full disclaimer for more details.

Miami, Florida, March 19th, 2025, Chainwire House of Doge, Dogecoin Foundation, IndyCar Driver DeFrancesco, and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing Launch Dogecoin Indy 500 Voting and Donation Platform – Letting Fans Make Doge History and Win The Ultimate Collectors Prize Dogecoin Racing, launched by the House of Doge and the Dogecoin Foundation is teaming up with NTT INDYCAR SERIES driver Devlin DeFrancesco and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing to bring Dogecoin to the iconic motorsports event—the Indy 500—while supporting a cause that is deeply personal to the team. The Indianapolis 500, known as “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” returns for its 109th running on Memorial Day weekend on May 25, drawing over 350,000 spectators in person and reaching a global audience in over 140 countries. This year brings with it a historic partnership with the Dogecoin race car taking center stage, empowering fans with the opportunity to vote on DeFrancesco’s Indy 500 car design featuring the iconic Dogecoin Shiba Inu. Dogecoin, like DeFrancesco, was born FAST! DeFrancesco was 15 weeks premature and weighed just one pound at birth, given his last rights on two occasions, and spent four months in the Neo-Natal ICU before making a miraculous recovery. Now, as a professional race car driver, he’s using his platform to give back to critically ill children. As part of this Dogetastic partnership, DeFrancesco, a dog lover, and Dogecoin fan, will personally donate $25,000 in Dogecoin to Riley Children’s Foundation in Indianapolis, aligned with Riley Children’s Health, a leading pediatric care center. This initiative also marks a historic moment in motorsport, as DeFrancesco has committed to receive $100,000 of his salary in Dogecoin. A bold step forward for crypto adoption in professional sports. “I first invested in Dogecoin in 2020 and drove everyone crazy, telling anyone who would listen that they needed to own it. It’s not only my favorite crypto, but the plan to become a global currency and drive payment adoption is awesome. I’m pumped to be part of the community and an ambassador for the vision,” Devlin shared. Voting to Bring an Iconic Doge Design to the Indy 500 Track and Make Doge History To celebrate the making of Dogecoin History, House of Doge, the Dogecoin Foundation and Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing are launching a fan-powered contest, allowing the Dogecoin community to choose the official race car wrap and helmet design that Devlin will wear at the Indy 500. From March 19 to March 25, fans can vote on their favorite design and enter to win a Dogecoin wallet loaded with $1,000. VOTES OPEN TODAY: Three potential versions of the No. 30 Dogecoin Honda include: ● Blaze – This livery burns so hot, it makes the sun look like a nightlight. Some say it was forged in the volcanic fires of Kīlauea and once it hits the track, all that’s left behind is smoke, embers, and the shattered dreams of others ● Turbowave – This livery is so 80s, it comes with a free synthwave soundtrack and a pair of neon sunglasses. Some say if you drive it at night, it glitches into a parallel universe where Miami Vice never ended and every race runs in slow motion with looping palm trees in the background. ● BananaBoost – This livery is so slippery, that Mario’s filing an official complaint. Powered by pure potassium, it’s sure to slip past the competition while making swift work of pesky turtle shells. “Dogenate” to Children’s Health for a Chance to Win the Ultimate Collector’s Prize As part of this partnership, House of Doge and the Dogecoin Foundation are rallying the Dogecoin community to join DeFrancesco in making a real-world impact by supporting children’s health. In addition to casting a vote, contributions in Dogecoin to Riley’s provide an opportunity to win the ultimate collector’s prize. The largest Dogecoin donor leading up to race day will receive an exclusive, one-of-a-kind Indy 500 racing helmet, worn – and signed – by DeFrancesco himself during his Indy 500 qualifying run. The Dogecoin-powered fundraising campaign will directly benefit Riley Children’s Foundation, which supports Riley Children’s Health, home to one of the nation’s top-ranked neonatology programs by U.S. News & World Report. The funds raised will help provide life-saving medical care to newborns, including those born prematurely or with critical conditions requiring immediate and specialized treatment. House of Doge encourages the Dogecoin community to race toward generosity, make history, and support this incredible cause leading up to the Indy 500 on May 25.  Fans can vote and donate at dogecoin.com/indycar. About House of Doge  The House of Doge team believes the future of money is already digital, and with Dogecoin’s speed and efficiency, it’s the ideal solution for the modern financial ecosystem. The team’s goal is to make Dogecoin a widely accepted decentralized currency for everyday use worldwide. To achieve this, House of Doge focuses on aggregating Dogecoin liquidity through robust operations in the U.S., creating a strategic reserve that will support its seamless use in commerce and government transactions. They are building the infrastructure necessary to ensure secure, efficient, and scalable Dogecoin transactions. About Dogecoin Foundation  The Dogecoin Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to developing open-source technology that enhances Dogecoin’s accessibility and utility as a peer-to-peer digital currency. About Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, based in Zionsville, Ind., is co-owned by three-time IndyCar Champion and 1986 Indianapolis 500 winner Bobby Rahal, former CBS Late Show host David Letterman, and Mi-Jack co-owner Mike Lanigan. In 2025, the team will compete in its 34th year of competition and will attempt to add to its 30 Indy car wins – including 2004 Indy 500 from pole with Buddy Rice and the 2020 Indy 500 with Takuma Sato — their 37 poles, 112 podium finishes, and 1992 series championship. Contact Commumications Angela Gorman House of Doge angela@amwpr.com Disclaimer: This content is provided by a sponsor. FinanceFeeds does not independently verify the legitimacy, credibility, claims, or financial viability of the information or description of services mentioned. As such, we bear no responsibility for any potential risks, inaccuracies, or misleading representations related to the content. This post does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation and should not be treated as such. We strongly advise seeking independent financial guidance from a qualified and regulated professional before engaging in any investment or financial activities. Please review our full disclaimer for more details.

Ripple’s long-running legal fight with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is officially over, according to CEO Brad Garlinghouse. In a post on X, Garlinghouse announced that the SEC dropped its appeal, calling it a “resounding victory” for Ripple and the broader crypto industry. Garlinghouse made the announcement at the Digital Asset Summit in New York, confirming that the SEC is no longer pursuing the case. In a video shared on X, he said the ruling marks the closing of a major chapter in crypto history and urged the U.S. to position itself as a leader in the industry. The Ripple CEO also acknowledged the new SEC leadership and policymakers for taking a more constructive approach toward crypto regulation. He thanked Ripple employees, legal teams, partners, and the broader XRP community for standing by the company throughout the fight. Following the news, XRP surged about 9% within the first hour, pushing its market capitalization to $146 billion, making it the third-largest cryptocurrency. The announcement also triggered a broader rally in the crypto market, with several other tokens posting gains. The SEC first sued Ripple in December 2020, alleging the company conducted a $1.3 billion unregistered securities offering through XRP sales. After four years of legal battles, the case has finally reached its conclusion. The commission ramped up actions under former Chair Gary Gensler but has since backed off cases under Acting Chair Mark Uyeda. Since January, the SEC dropped multiple lawsuits against Coinbase, Consensys, Kraken, and other crypto firms, fueling speculation about whether political donations played a role. The ongoing legal battle stems from a December 2020 lawsuit alleging Ripple used XRP as an unregistered security to raise funds. In August 2024, a federal court ruled partially in favor of Ripple, finding the company liable for $125 million but rejecting the SEC’s claim that XRP inherently qualifies as a security. Ripple’s appeal does not challenge this aspect of the decision.  

Binance Alpha 2.0 extends early-stage token trading services between Binance Exchange and Binance Wallet. Alpha 2.0 enhances pre-announcement transparency providing users with an integrated trading environment between central (CEX) and decentralized (DEX). The world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange Binance has introduced Binance Alpha 2.0 on March 19, 2025. The release of Binance Alpha on Binance Wallet started in December 2024 which now leads to the evolution of Alpha 2.0. Alpha 2.0 enables users to directly access Alpha Tokens for trading on Binance Exchange which boosts user flexibility within the platform. The Binance Alpha 2.0 version enables customers to acquire tokens directly inside Binance Exchange on-chain while no longer requiring separate Web3 wallet access. Binance Pay provides users with enhanced trading process efficiency through the ability to execute transactions from Spot and Funding accounts in addition to other supported Binance accounts. The platform uses MEV Protection to protect users from unsafe trades and to provide them with optimal prices. “Binance Alpha 2.0 is an important step in bridging the gap between centralized and decentralized trading, providing users with a seamless and intuitive way to discover and trade early-stage tokens directly on Binance Exchange,” said Winson Liu, Global Lead of Binance Wallet. “By integrating Alpha Tokens into Binance exchange, we are enhancing accessibility, improving capital efficiency, and simplifying the user experience, all while maintaining transparency in the token consideration process.” The Binance Alpha platform functions as an emerging blockchain discovery platform which selects tokens according to both industry knowledge of Binance along with community participation and mainstream market trends. “Since its launch, Binance Alpha has provided users with an early opportunity to explore innovative projects, with eight tokens featured on Binance Alpha now successfully listed on Binance Spot,” said Winson Liu. “With Binance Alpha 2.0, we are further expanding access to early-stage tokens while maintaining transparency in the token consideration process.” Early-stage token trading popularity increased on Binance Wallet immediately after the integration with Binance Alpha yielded substantial user population growth. The daily on-chain transactions through Binance Wallet reached $90.55 million on March 18, 2025 and held the top position with 54% of total crypto wallet trading volume. Binance Wallet gained 29.5% of the total active trader base as first place in trader activity while simultaneously earning 29.5% of trader market share. The integration of Alpha 2.0 onto Binance Exchange increases the accessibility of early-stage tokens for the market. The Binance Alpha 2.0 BETA version now operates in select markets while additional regions will enter access during the forthcoming days. The launch celebration includes free trading charges on Binance Alpha 2.0 from March 17, 2025 until September 17, 2025. The users are accountable for paying all network expenses that occur during on-chain transactions. The official announcement and FAQ page includes further information about Binance Alpha 2.0. About Binance Binance operates as a worldwide blockchain ecosystem and maintains the position as the earth’s largest cryptocurrency exchange regarding trading volume and user base. The platform operates securely with 250 million registered users from more than 100 nations because it delivers quick trade engine performance and complete transparency. Through its digital asset service platform Binance provides users with complete solutions that combine trading, finance, education, research, payments, institutional solutions and Web3 applications. Binance uses cryptocurrency to build financial inclusion which allows people worldwide to access high-quality financial services. For more information, visit: https://www.binance.com Disclaimer People who invest in cryptocurrencies need to understand that their investments carry considerable risks which lead to unpredictable market valuation changes. Investment values can rise or drop while you might lose a substantial part of your capital. Binance stands free of responsibility for any financial losses that occur to its users. Previous success does not guarantee predictions about the future. Think twice before investing through proper risk assessment because looking for expert financial guidance will benefit your situation. The complete details can be accessed through the Binance Terms of Use and Risk Warning. Users have the choice to subscribe to Binance Wallet as an additional service. The product requires users to establish if it fulfills their necessary requirements. The liability of Binance extends only to internal Wallet transactions and does not apply to third-party applications linked to Binance Wallet even for disputed transactions. Study the Binance Wallet Terms of Use while researching the product thoroughly before deciding to use it.

Temenos is opening an Innovation Hub in Central Florida. The banking technology leader announced the new center will be home to up to 200 technology and product developers focused on banking innovation and collaboration with US clients. The fintech provider will recruit approximately 200 technology and product developers at the new hub to fuel research and development for US-specific banking solutions. “Expanding our go-to-market capabilities” Financial institutions visiting the hub will gain direct access to the latest technology and work alongside Temenos experts to shape the next generation of banking, the firm stated. As the ninth-fastest growing place in the United States, Orlando is emerging as a major technology center with tech job growth projected at 27% by 2030. The area benefits from the presence of The University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the US’s largest universities, and a number of STEM-focused institutions. Jean-Pierre Brulard, CEO of Temenos, said: “We’re delighted to launch our Innovation Hub in Central Florida, a growing tech center that provides access to top talent. This investment is in line with our strategy and commitment to the US market, further investing in our product, expanding our go-to-market capabilities and scaling through strategic partnerships. By bringing our technology development closer to our American clients, we’re accelerating customer-centric innovation tailored for the US market.” Barb Morgan, Chief Product & Technology Officer at Temenos, commented: “The Temenos Innovation Hub is a game-changer for Temenos and our US clients. With our relentless focus on innovation—investing around 20% of revenues in R&D—this center will be a powerhouse for building the future of banking. It’s not just about showcasing our market-leading solutions; it’s about collaborating with our clients and partners to solve real challenges and drive the next wave of banking technology with our US clients and partners.” Temenos has engaged with the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) Temenos has engaged with the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) to facilitate the opening of the new Innovation Hub. This partnership will help Temenos to build stronger relationships with the tech community in Central Florida, access top talent and make the most of incentives such as training grants. Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of the Orlando Economic Partnership, said: “With strong infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and an expanding tech ecosystem, Central Florida is a prime location for tech companies looking to grow and innovate. We are pleased to see Temenos expanding in our region, and our team at the Orlando Economic Partnership is proud to continue supporting their expansion by connecting them to the right locations and resources. The investment in its Innovation Hub will create hundreds of high-skilled jobs and further strengthens our reputation as the destination for innovation in financial services.”

MAS Digital has partnered with TP ICAP’s Fusion Digital Assets, a UK FCA-registered wholesale marketplace for digital assets. The institutional-grade digital asset trading solutions provider will have its clients execute trades seamlessly through its advanced trading GUI and institutional-grade infrastructure while benefiting from the deep liquidity and efficient marketplace provided by Fusion Digital Assets. Fusion Digital Assets is a trusted venue for institutional participants as it upholds standards of governance, security and operational efficiency that align with the highest standards operated by TP ICAP across asset classes. “Access to a well-established exchange” Rob Brown, Head of Strategic Development at MAS Group, commented: “We are excited to partner with Fusion Digital Assets and provide our clients with access to a well-established exchange. This represents another significant milestone in the evolution of institutional digital asset trading, combining MAS Digital’s robust technology with TP ICAP’s trusted infrastructure to provide greater market access, transparency, and efficiency.” Chay Pollard, Director Digital Assets E-Broking at TP ICAP, commented: “We are excited to partner with MAS Digital, leveraging their strong expertise in the FX market as they expand into Digital Assets. Their advanced client connectivity solutions will further enhance TP ICAP’s network, providing clients new ways of executing with Fusion Digital Assets.” Non-Custodial Crypto Exchange Featuring a Segregated Model and Anonymous Liquidity The venue currently supports trading in Bitcoin and Ether against USD. Going forward, it will expand the assets it supports in line with client demand. The venue’s core elements include TP ICAP’s proprietary electronic platform which provides clients with a non-custodial cryptoasset exchange for order matching and trade execution. Fusion Digital Assets also partners with leading custodians for independent safe keeping of clients’ inventories and settlement services through a segregated model. The exchange, operated by TP ICAP E&C Limited and registered with the FCA as a cryptoasset exchange provider, boasts an anonymous aggregation of streaming liquidity from world-leading market makers and uncorrelated liquidity from TP ICAP’s global client base. Recent Additions to Fusion Digital Assets TP ICAP recently welcomed Coinhako to Fusion Digital Assets. Coinhako is a leading Singapore-based firm and a leading digital asset platform in Singapore which will be joining TP ICAP’s Fusion Digital Assets as trading counterpart to provide and consume liquidity on the exchange. In late 2024, TP ICAP welcomed institutional crypto trading firm Nonco to its Fusion Digital Assets exchange for the provision of liquidity for the Bitcoin and Ethereum order books. Nonco is an institutional crypto trading firm with 10 years of experience in trading digital assets, employing a risk-mitigating, noncustodial approach that leverages clearing, bilateral, and smart contract settlement capabilities. The firm covers stablecoins, legacy, and altcoin execution, and specializes in high-frequency, systematic trading strategies. FalconX, recognized as the largest institutional digital asset prime broker and a CFTC-registered swap dealer, was also onboarded to Fusion Digital Assets. TP ICAP’s Fusion has been successfully onboarding leading names within the crypto industry to its exchange. Deltix’s CryptoCortex also became a member.

In a groundbreaking move, North Carolina lawmakers have introduced a bill that would allow the state to allocate up to 10% of public funds into Bitcoin investments. The proposed legislation, House Bill 92, also known as the “Digital Assets Investments Act,” aims to position North Carolina at the forefront of state-level cryptocurrency adoption and financial innovation. House Speaker Destin Hall, along with co-sponsors Representatives Mark Brody and Steve Ross, introduced the bill, citing Bitcoin’s long-term growth potential and its role as a hedge against inflation. The bill seeks to authorize the state treasurer to invest in digital asset exchange-traded products (ETPs), provided that the underlying asset has maintained a minimum average market capitalization of $750 billion over the past 12 months—a requirement currently only met by Bitcoin. Key Provisions of the Bill Under the proposed legislation, several critical stipulations govern how the funds can be allocated: Investment Limitations: No more than 10% of any state fund’s balance can be invested in digital assets at any given time. Eligible Funds: The investments would be drawn from funds managed by the state treasurer, including the General Fund, Highway Fund, and public pension systems. Security Considerations: Investments must be made through regulated digital asset exchange-traded products to ensure security and minimize risks. Supporters of the bill argue that Bitcoin has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, making it a valuable asset in a diversified investment portfolio. Hall emphasized that this legislation aligns with the state’s long-term financial strategy, positioning North Carolina as a leader in digital asset investments while safeguarding taxpayer money. North Carolina’s proposal follows a growing national trend where multiple states are exploring cryptocurrency adoption. At least 19 states are currently evaluating similar legislation, driven in part by broader discussions at the federal level regarding digital assets’ role in financial markets. This wave of interest has also been influenced by President Donald Trump’s recent executive order encouraging states to explore Bitcoin reserves as part of their investment strategies. Support and Opposition While the bill has received strong backing from several lawmakers and financial analysts, concerns remain over cryptocurrency’s volatility and regulatory uncertainty. Some legislators have called for further scrutiny, warning that state-managed Bitcoin investments could be subject to significant price fluctuations. Additionally, the State Employees Association of North Carolina has expressed reservations, particularly regarding the potential risks to pension funds and public sector financial stability. The proposed legislation is set to undergo rigorous discussions in the coming weeks. If passed, North Carolina will become one of the first states to actively integrate Bitcoin into its public financial strategy, potentially setting a precedent for others to follow. As the bill moves through the legislative process, all eyes will be on North Carolina’s approach to digital asset investments. If successful, this initiative could mark a significant shift in how state governments perceive and utilize cryptocurrencies in public finance.

Centroid Solutions has integrated its Centroid Risk with the Match-Trader trading platform to deepen the collaboration between the two companies further. Building upon the previous integration of Match-Trader with Centroid Bridge, the expanded partnership enhances Centroid’s service offerings for clients using Match-Trader. Analytics, Reporting, Trader Behavior, Control, Optimized Risk Strategies Clients operating on the Match-Trader platform can now access Centroid Risk’s comprehensive analytics capabilities, which include: Insightful analytics dashboards. Extensive reporting functions. Advanced analysis of trader behavior for improved risk assessment. Enhanced visibility and control over trading operations. More effective decision-making and optimized trading risk strategies. Centroid Solutions specializes in multi-asset connectivity, risk management, and execution solutions for financial institutions and broker-dealers. The firm offers a complete suite of technology solutions and infrastructure designed to help financial institutions optimize their business operations, expand their product offering, and achieve superior trading performance across markets. Match-Trade Technologies’ in-house ecosystem is built around their proprietary trading platform—Match-Trader, available as Server and White Label. The company has a strategic partnership with a regulated Liquidity Provider, offering a complete solution for Forex Brokers. Advanced Risk Management for Optimal Control of Trading Environment Cristian Vlasceanu, CEO of Centroid Solutions, said: “We are thrilled to strengthen our relationship with Match-Trade Technologies through this integration. Our mission is to continually innovate and provide brokers and prop trading firms with the tools they need to thrive in a highly competitive market. By expanding our collaboration, we are enabling clients to benefit from advanced risk management capabilities, ensuring they can maintain optimal control of their trading environments.” Alexis Droussiotis, Head of Match-Trader Platform, commented: “Our partnership with Centroid Solutions has enhanced the Match-Trader platform, bringing powerful risk management solutions to brokers and prop trading firms. With Centroid Risk, users can monitor risk exposures and trading activity in one place, generate in-depth risk analytics, identify and quantify potential issues before they escalate, and automate previously time-consuming data crunching. By combining our technologies, we’re giving clients seamless, high-performance tools, helping them make smarter trading decisions while saving them valuable time and resources.” Match-Trader Upgrade Featured TradingView Drag-and-Drop By the end of 2024, Match-Trade unveiled a comprehensive update to its Match-Trader platform, bringing new features and refinements aimed at improving functionality, user experience, and operational efficiency. The fintech company’s latest updates showcase its commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions tailored to the evolving needs of brokers and traders. These include TradingView drag-and-drop, quick SL/TP, advanced analytics for brokers, refreshed admin and WL manager interface, sleek design, and more. The upgrade introduces drag-and-drop functionality to TradingView charts, allowing users to manage positions and set Stop Loss (SL) and Take Profit (TP) levels directly from the chart. Key features include: Pending Order Control: Precise editing of activation prices and removal of pending orders directly from the interface. These improvements streamline trade management, although they are not available for Match-Trader PRO accounts. Two new reporting features, Lead Sources, and Lead Providers tabs, offer in-depth insights into marketing performance. These tools enable brokers to: Evaluate campaign success through detailed, navigable reports. Optimize resources for more effective marketing strategies. Real-Time Social Trading Notifications Match-Trader now supports push notifications and inbox alerts to enhance communication with social trading users. Notifications cover critical events such as insufficient funds, subscription updates, and failed subscription fee collections, fostering transparency and trust. The Admin and White Label Manager applications now feature a modernized interface with improved usability. Enhancements include: Hideable navigation menus to maximize workspace. Optimized button placement for user-friendly navigation. New Access Rights and Margin Calculation Options The update introduced “Access Rights” for trading accounts, replacing previous Locked/Blocked statuses with detailed permission levels such as “Close Only” and “Login Disabled.” Additionally, a new “Larger Leg” hedge margin calculation method allows margin calculations based on the largest position side of a trade, providing flexibility for brokers. Other notable improvements include: Report Blocking: Ability to block End-of-Day (EOD) and End-of-Month (EOM) reports for individual accounts. Demo Account Filtering: Simplified filtering of demo accounts from account and trade histories. Saved Chart Templates: Users can now save custom TradingView chart settings, with automatic application upon login and support for theme changes.

Cathie Wood, the CEO of ARK Investment Management, has issued a stark warning to investors regarding the growing frenzy around meme coins. In a recent interview with Bloomberg Television, Wood expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of these digital assets, cautioning that most of them will eventually become “worthless.” Wood’s comments come at a time when meme coins are experiencing renewed interest, fueled by social media hype and speculative trading. While some investors have reaped substantial gains, Wood believes the majority of these assets lack fundamental value and are driven purely by sentiment. She attributes the explosion of meme coins to technological advancements in blockchain and artificial intelligence, which have made it easier than ever to create new cryptocurrencies. However, she warns that this ease of creation does not equate to long-term sustainability. Regulatory Uncertainty and Risks One of Wood’s key concerns is the regulatory status of meme coins. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has categorized them as non-securities, meaning they are largely outside the agency’s jurisdiction. This lack of oversight leaves investors vulnerable to extreme price volatility and potential scams. “If I have one message for those buying meme coins, it’s this: buyer beware,” Wood cautioned. “People are going to learn the hard way that speculation without underlying value is not a sustainable strategy.” Wood also noted that financial losses can serve as a harsh lesson for investors, as regulators will not intervene to protect those who engage in highly speculative trading. With little-to-no regulatory safety net, meme coin investors are left to navigate the risks on their own. Wood’s warning follows the recent launch of the $TRUMP meme coin, a cryptocurrency associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Initially, the coin attracted billions in trading volume, but its value quickly plummeted, highlighting the inherent instability of meme coins. This kind of boom-and-bust cycle has been a recurring theme in the meme coin market, with projects experiencing rapid surges in value followed by equally swift crashes. Despite her skepticism toward meme coins, Wood remains bullish on major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. She has previously predicted that Bitcoin could surpass $1 million by 2030, citing its increasing adoption and strong network fundamentals. Unlike meme coins, which often lack utility, Wood believes these leading digital assets have long-term growth potential. Investor Takeaways Wood’s warning serves as a reminder that not all cryptocurrencies are created equal. While meme coins may offer short-term opportunities for high-risk traders, they are not a sound investment strategy for those looking for sustainable growth. Instead, Wood advises investors to focus on cryptocurrencies with real-world applications and widespread adoption. As the crypto market continues to evolve, investors will need to differentiate between speculative fads and assets with genuine long-term value. For now, the ARK CEO’s message is clear: when it comes to meme coins, proceed with caution.

The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) has officially invited companies to participate in its regulatory sandbox program, a move aimed at fostering financial innovation while ensuring compliance and consumer protection. The initiative provides a controlled environment for businesses to test new financial products and services under DFSA supervision. The regulatory sandbox, part of the DFSA’s Innovation Testing Licence (ITL) program, is designed to support fintech startups, financial institutions, and technology firms looking to develop and refine cutting-edge solutions in areas such as blockchain, digital banking, and artificial intelligence-driven finance. Encouraging Financial Innovation The DFSA’s latest call for applications aligns with its commitment to positioning Dubai as a leading global fintech hub. By allowing businesses to trial their solutions in a real-world setting, the regulatory sandbox offers a crucial framework for innovation, ensuring that new financial technologies are both viable and compliant before full-scale implementation. In a statement, the DFSA emphasized the importance of collaboration between regulators and industry players to drive financial sector advancements. “Our regulatory sandbox provides an opportunity for companies to test their solutions with direct regulatory engagement, ensuring responsible innovation in Dubai’s financial sector,” a DFSA spokesperson said. Companies accepted into the DFSA’s regulatory sandbox will benefit from: Regulatory Guidance: Direct support from DFSA officials to navigate compliance requirements. Real-World Testing: A live-market environment to validate fintech solutions. Flexible Regulatory Conditions: A customized regulatory framework tailored to each business model. Access to DIFC’s Ecosystem: Networking opportunities with investors, partners, and financial institutions. The DFSA is inviting applications from startups, established financial institutions, and technology firms with innovative financial solutions. Interested companies must demonstrate how their offerings contribute to financial innovation while addressing key regulatory concerns such as security, stability, and consumer protection. Applications will undergo a rigorous selection process, where the DFSA will assess the risks, benefits, and feasibility of the proposed solutions. Approved participants will operate within the sandbox for a defined period, with ongoing regulatory oversight. Dubai’s Push for Fintech Leadership Dubai continues to strengthen its reputation as a global fintech leader, with initiatives like the DFSA’s sandbox playing a key role in fostering financial sector advancements. As innovation in financial services accelerates, regulatory sandboxes serve as essential bridges between new technologies and regulatory compliance. Companies seeking to be part of this groundbreaking initiative are encouraged to submit their applications promptly, as the DFSA looks to shape the future of finance through controlled, responsible innovation.

San Francisco-based blockchain payments firm Halliday has raised $20 million in a Series A funding round led by a16z crypto, the digital asset investment arm of venture capital powerhouse Andreessen Horowitz. The latest funding round brings Halliday’s total capital raised to over $26 million, following a $6 million seed round in 2022. Advancing AI-Driven Smart Contract Development Founded in April 2022, Halliday is focused on streamlining smart contract development through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology. At the core of its innovation is the Agentic Workflow Protocol (AWP), designed to provide “immutable guardrails” for AI agents operating on blockchain networks. The protocol aims to ensure that autonomous systems execute predefined tasks securely, mitigating risks of errors, exploits, or unintended transactions. By leveraging automated workflows, Halliday enables developers to reduce the complexity and time required to build and implement smart contracts. Its infrastructure is designed to support seamless blockchain integration for businesses, ensuring both efficiency and security. Halliday’s technology has attracted interest from chartered banks and payment service providers seeking to integrate blockchain solutions into their operations. Through its automation-focused framework, the company is helping financial institutions streamline workflows, reduce operational overhead, and enhance security in decentralized transactions. By collaborating with key financial players, Halliday is working to bridge the gap between traditional finance and blockchain automation, accelerating adoption across the financial sector. With the new capital infusion, Halliday plans to expand its engineering team, currently at 17 members, and further develop both its workflow protocol and payment application, Halliday Payments. The company aims to enhance AI-driven blockchain solutions, refining its technology to support applications ranging from financial transactions to automated compliance systems. Security remains a core focus for Halliday, particularly in AI and blockchain integration. By implementing strict workflow controls and automation safeguards, the company seeks to minimize risks associated with AI-powered smart contracts, ensuring they operate within predefined, secure parameters. A Key Player in AI-Blockchain Convergence The success of Halliday’s Series A round highlights growing confidence in the convergence of AI and blockchain. As financial institutions and developers look for more efficient ways to leverage blockchain technology, Halliday is positioned as a leader in this rapidly evolving space. With continued innovation in AI-driven automation, Halliday’s solutions could serve as a cornerstone for the next generation of blockchain applications, making decentralized finance (DeFi) more secure, scalable, and accessible. The company’s progress reflects rising institutional interest in AI-blockchain synergies, paving the way for broader adoption within mainstream financial infrastructure.

Microsoft issued a warning about StilachiRAT, a new malware that steals data from 20 of the most widely used cryptocurrency wallets that function as Google Chrome extensions. According to a report from Microsoft’s Incident Response team, the malware can evade detection, remain active on infected systems, and exfiltrate sensitive data, including crypto wallet credentials and stored browser passwords. The malware was first detected in November 2024 and specifically targets wallets such as MetaMask, Coinbase Wallet, Phantom, OKX Wallet, and BNB Chain Wallet. While StilachiRAT has not yet spread on a large scale, Microsoft has not identified the source of the attack. The company recommended antivirus protection and other security measures to mitigate the risk. “Due to its stealth capabilities and the rapid changes within the malware ecosystem, we are sharing these findings as part of our ongoing efforts to monitor, analyze, and report on the evolving threat landscape,” the team wrote in a blog post. Microsoft continues to track the malware’s development and urged users to remain cautious when handling cryptocurrency wallets or storing credentials in their browser. Earlier in 2024, North Korean hackers created malware that reportedly bypassed Apple’s security defenses. This was the first known instance of malware breaching Apple’s macOS operating system using this specific technique, although it doesn’t work on fully up-to-date systems. Jamf researchers discovered malicious applications that escaped detection by Microsoft’s VirusTotal scanning service, indicating the advanced nature of the software. These applications were developed using Google’s Flutter, a toolkit for creating cross-platform apps, and were written in the Go and Python languages. Five out of six malicious applications used developer account signatures and had been temporarily notarized by Apple, a process that generally certifies software as safe for macOS users. The malware featured names that referenced cryptocurrency, such as “New Updates in Crypto Exchange” and “New Era for Stablecoins and DeFi,” hinting at the hackers’ financial targets. Upon activation, one of the apps even opened a disguised minesweeper game. Jamf researchers noted that it’s unclear if these apps have been deployed to targets or if they represent a trial phase for more sophisticated attacks. However, the malware aligns with known techniques and domains linked to North Korean cyber operations, likely signaling preparations for broader exploitation. North Korean hackers have shown impressive sophistication in their cyberattacks, from exploiting Chrome vulnerabilities to reportedly contributing to the Cosmos network’s Liquid Staking Module. UN reports estimate that North Korean cyber operations generated about $3 billion over the past six years.

Tokyo-listed investment firm Metaplanet has expanded its Bitcoin holdings, buying an additional 150 BTC for $12.5 million at an average price of $83,508 per Bitcoin. The latest acquisition brings the company’s total Bitcoin stash to 3,200 BTC, valued at roughly $265.9 million based on current market prices. Alongside the purchase, Metaplanet raised 2 billion yen ($13.3 million) through bond issuance to fund further Bitcoin acquisitions. The company has been aggressively accumulating Bitcoin since adopting its accumulation strategy in April 2024, with plans to reach 10,000 BTC by the end of 2025 and 21,000 BTC by the end of 2026. Despite the latest Bitcoin buy, Metaplanet’s stock closed down 0.49% at 4,030 yen on Tuesday. However, the stock has surged 15.8% year-to-date and skyrocketed 1,819% over the past year, according to Yahoo Finance. CEO Gerovich previously hinted at a possible listing outside Japan, including in the U.S., to make shares more accessible to global investors. With its recent acquisitions, Metaplanet is now the 12th-largest corporate Bitcoin holder in the world and the largest in Asia, surpassing Hong Kong’s Boyaa Interactive International. Gerovich recently met with New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq officials amid growing international ambitions for the firm. Metaplanet’s growing Bitcoin portfolio remains modest compared to that of MicroStrategy, the largest public corporate Bitcoin holder, which owns 439,000 BTC. Last month, the firm partnered with SBI VC Trade, the crypto arm of SBI Group, to access compliant corporate custody services. Metaplanet CEO Simon Gerovich said that the partnership will support Metaplanet’s Bitcoin accumulation strategy by engaging with key stakeholders in Japan. Metaplanet added that access to a compliant corporate custody service is a critical component of the partnership, which prioritizes tax efficiency and considers using Bitcoin as collateral for financing.

Paris, France, March 18th, 2025, Chainwire iExec, the platform serving as the trust layer for DePIN and AI, has announced a strategic RLC token buyback initiative aimed at strengthening the iExec ecosystem and reinforcing the long-term utility of the RLC token. The buyback of RLC tokens is designed to support the continued growth of the iExec ecosystem and the broader adoption of RLC: It facilitates: Strengthening the RLC ecosystem Driving sustainable growth in trending sectors Amplifying RLC token utility Increasing circulation within the iExec protocol Expanding real-world applications and value Supporting new token incentive programs Funding opportunities for builders & rewarding ecosystem participants Strategic Allocation The RLC tokens will be allocated as follows: 40% Development, Support, and Investment – Fueling the next wave of iExec adoption 30% Strategic Treasury – Ensuring flexibility for partnerships and growth initiative 30% Liquidity Provision – Enhancing DEX and CEX liquidity for efficient trading “This buyback isn’t about hype, it’s about conviction. We’re reinforcing RLC’s role in the ecosystem and backing the builders shaping the future of decentralized computing,” Nathan Chiron, CRO of iExec said. By buying back RLC from the market and reinjecting it into the protocol, iExec aims to reinforce the long-term utility, sustainability, and circulation of the token, supporting its long-term vision for the ecosystem. About iExec: iExec is the trust layer for DePIN and AI. iExec enables confidential computing and trusted off-chain execution, powered by a decentralized TEE-based CPU and GPU infrastructure. Developers access developer tools and computing resources to build and monetize privacy-preserving applications across AI, DeFi, RWA, big data and more. The iExec ecosystem allows any participant to control, protect, and monetize their digital assets ranging from – computing power, personal data, and code, to AI models – all via the iExec RLC token, driving an asset-based token economy. Contact Market Across MarketAcross Pr@marketacross.com Disclaimer: This content is a press release from a wire service. This press release is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

A well-known investor closed a $516 million short position in Bitcoin, making a $9.4 million profit over just eight days. This remarkable action not only emphasizes the possible benefits of shorting in erratic markets but also the increasing impact of institutional investors on bitcoin markets. Let’s explore the specifics of this trade, the market conditions allowing it, and how it will affect the general state of cryptocurrencies.   The $516 Million Bitcoin Short Position   A short position is a trading plan whereby an investor borrows an asset—in this case, Bitcoin—with the purpose of selling it at a high price only to purchase it back at a reduced price later, therefore benefiting from the difference. In markets experiencing price decreases, this approach is very rewarding; Bitcoin’s well-known volatility has long drawn traders to bet against its price.   Reports from big cryptocurrency exchanges indicate that the investor—whose name has not been revealed—took a substantial short position in Bitcoin, worth $516 million. The timing of the trade was deliberate since it opened during a time when the price of Bitcoin was displaying signals of peaking following a protracted surge.   When the value of Bitcoin dropped over the next few days, the investor’s capacity to forecast the price decline helped them to earn significantly.   Timing and Market Situation   The price of Bitcoin has always been erratic; quick reductions and strong increases are not rare. Bitcoin saw a significant surge in the days before this little trade, with pricing setting new highs. Nonetheless, expecting a price correction, many market analysts and institutional traders doubted the viability of this surge.   This set the ideal conditions for short-sellers hoping to profit from an approaching fall and join the market. Confirming the investor’s approach, the price of Bitcoin dropped during the eight-day period following the trading start. According to reports, the market underwent a dramatic downturn; Bitcoin values dropped from a high of $72,000 to about $63,000.   Although notable, this drop was not sufficient to undermine the general positive attitude towards Bitcoin, but it let the investor end the investment with a $9.4 million profit. The profit of $9.4 million  From this short trade, the investor makes an amazing 1.8% of the whole investment.  Final Thought   The closing of a $516 million Bitcoin short position with a $9.4 million profit in just eight days shows the possibility for big gains in the cryptocurrency market. It also reminds one of the volatility and hazards involved, though.   The methods institutional investors use, such as shorting, will probably affect the direction of the market as they keep becoming more and more important in the crypto scene. For now, Bitcoin’s erratic character guarantees that chances for both long-term and short-term traders will keep developing, thereby maintaining the crypto environment as interesting and demanding as it is presently.

The Bank of Korea will begin trials for its Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) project from April to June, according to local reports. The pilot, named “Hangang,” will involve 100,000 participants and seven major local banks, including KB Kookmin, Shinhan, Hana, and Woori Bank. During the pilot, participants will be able to convert their bank deposits into tokenized deposits, which can be used to make payments at local vendors such as convenience stores, coffee shops, supermarkets, and online shops. Payments will be made via mobile banking apps using QR codes. The trial seeks to assess whether distributed ledger technology (DLT) can replace traditional settlement methods used by local banks, which currently rely on central bank reserves. A BOK representative explained that tokenized deposits could reduce intermediaries in transactions and allow merchants to receive real-time settlements. The pilot will limit individual participants to holding up to one million Korean won (about $689) in tokenized deposits, with the option to top up to a maximum of five million won. Participants will also be able to convert their tokenized deposits back into cash. In addition to this CBDC trial, the BOK recently clarified that it has no plans to include Bitcoin in its foreign exchange reserves, citing that Bitcoin does not meet IMF standards for reserve assets. However, the bank noted it will closely monitor discussions regarding the inclusion of virtual assets in foreign exchange reserves. With around 90% of the world’s central banks exploring digital versions of their currencies, there is a push not to fall behind the advancements made by bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. However, technological complexities pose a challenge. Countries like the Bahamas, Nigeria, and Jamaica already have operational CBDCs, with China conducting advanced real-life trials of an e-yuan. The European Central Bank is working on a digital euro, and the Bank for International Settlements is undertaking multiple cross-border trials. Meanwhile, global bank messaging network SWIFT is planning to launch a new platform within the next one to two years to connect central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) currently under development with the existing financial system.