While more people and organizations continue to adopt cryptocurrency, there’s also an increase in hacks, scams, and cyberattacks. Each month, there are new stories of individuals losing money because they used the wrong platform or their wallets were compromised. Such incidents have made security one of the biggest concerns for digital assets owners. One of the effective ways to reduce these risks is by using hardware wallets. These devices are secure in storing crypto because they save private keys offline. Hardware wallets do not stay connected to the internet, making it challenging for hackers to break into them. After reading this post, you’ll understand how hardware wallets work and if they can be hacked. Key Takeaways A hardware wallet is a physical device that stores crypto private keys offline. Hardware wallets cannot be infected with computer viruses because they don’t work with traditional software. Hardware wallets can be hacked through phishing, seed phrase theft, or supply chain attacks. Protecting a hardware wallet requires strong PINs, safe seed storage, and firmware updates.  Understanding the concept of a hardware wallet A hardware wallet is a physical device that stores your crypto private keys. They’re like secret codes that allow you access to your digital money. Therefore, if someone has your keys, they can access your funds. Hence, protecting these keys is essential. Many hardware wallets have extra security features. They require users to create a PIN code, a recovery phrase, and confirm transactions by tapping a button. Hence, no transfer can occur until you physically approve it.  Can hardware wallets be infected with a virus? If you’ve ever worried about whether a virus can infect your hardware wallet, the answer is no. Hardware wallets are designed to have strong protection. Here are features that keep hardware wallets rock-solid.  1. They’re not like regular computers A smartphone or personal computer can run various applications, making them open to diverse malware. However, a hardware wallet is structured to keep your private keys safe. It doesn’t allow downloads, apps, or random files to worm on it. Due to its limited function, no traditional virus can penetrate the device.  2. No environment for the virus to survive Viruses mostly need a host to hide in. It could be a folder, an operating system or an application. Hardware wallets don’t have that environment. They have a special software that is firmly controlled and cannot be manipulated by outside programs. Therefore, until the official manufacturer provides an update, no code can be installed.  3. Your physical approval is important Viruses cannot compromise hardware wallets because they are built with robust security features. Every transaction must be confirmed on the device by tapping the screen or a physical button. If the malware on your device tries to send your funds to a hacker’s address, your hardware wallet will show the real transaction details. Until you click confirm, the transaction will not be approved. This physical approval is one of the notable protections against viruses.  4. The wallet is safe even if the computer is affected If your hardware wallet is connected to an infected computer, the virus cannot break into the wallet. The hardware wallet exchanges transaction details data that you must approve. Therefore, it will not share internal memory or private keys with the computer.  Is it possible to hack a hardware wallet? Hardware wallets provide top-level protection, but they’re not entirely immune to risks. Here are some likely ways attackers might hack a hardware wallet. 1. Physical theft of the wallet While someone can physically steal a hardware wallet, it would be impossible to access the funds without the PIN. The good part is, many hardware wallets will wipe themselves after several failed attempts. Hence, the ideal way to protect your device in a secure location, like using a strong, safe, and unpredictable PIN.  2. Compromise of the recovery phrase The recovery phrase, also known as the seed phrase, is the most essential key to your wallet. If someone has access to it, they can restore your wallet on another device and steal your funds. This method is one of the common ways people lose crypto because they store the phrase carelessly. Therefore, write down the key and keep it hidden in a secure and private location.  3. Firmware vulnerabilities Hardware wallets run on internal software that controls how they work. If hackers spot a weakness in the firmware, they can leverage it to steal information or bypass security. However, wallet manufacturers release updates to fix such issues. You can keep your hardware wallet safe by installing only official firmware updates. If your device is updated, it will benefit from the recent security patches.  How to protect your hardware wallets Keeping a hardware wallet secure depends on the habits of its users. Here are some key steps to protect your wallet and keep your crypto funds safe. 1. Buy from trusted or official sources Getting tampered or counterfeit devices is risky, especially when you buy them from second-hand markets or unknown sellers. It is ideal to buy from the manufacturer’s website or authorizes resellers.  2. Set up the device yourself Don’t accept a hardware wallet with a pre-written recovery phrase or one that is configured. If someone has generated the recovery phrase, they can access your funds at any time. During setup, create the seed phrase on your device without any external help.  3. Store your recovery phrase offline The recovery phrase is the master key to your hardware wallet. To protect it, write it and store it in a waterproof and safe location. Avoid storing it digitally on your computer, cloud storage or phone.  Conclusion – Protecting your hardware wallet for the long term A hardware wallet has strong protection against online threats and viruses. To keep your wallet safe, use a unique and strong PIN that no one can guess. Additionally, add an extra passphrase for an additional layer of security. Also, keep your firmware updated, and download updates from official sources alone. By following these steps, you’ll make it challenging for hackers to compromise your hardware wallet, and you’ll stay in control of your cryptocurrency. 

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Gemini Trust Company have notified a Manhattan federal court that they have reached a preliminary agreement to settle the regulator’s long-running lawsuit against the cryptocurrency exchange. The case centers on Gemini’s Earn program, which the SEC alleged functioned as an unregistered securities offering that exposed investors to significant risks without adequate disclosure. Background of the lawsuit The SEC originally filed suit in January 2023 against Gemini and its partner Genesis Global Capital. According to the complaint, the Earn program allowed retail investors to lend digital assets to Genesis through Gemini in return for interest payments. The SEC argued that these arrangements amounted to the offer and sale of securities that should have been registered with the Commission under federal law. Without registration, the regulator claimed, investors were denied the protections typically required in U.S. securities markets. The lawsuit was filed amid the broader collapse of Genesis, which declared bankruptcy following the failure of several large crypto counterparties in 2022. Thousands of Earn customers were left unable to access their funds, highlighting what regulators said were the inherent risks of unregulated lending programs in the digital asset sector. Genesis agreed earlier this year to pay a $21 million penalty to settle its portion of the charges. That agreement was reached without admitting or denying the SEC’s allegations. Gemini, in contrast, had continued to fight the case, arguing that the Earn program was wrongly categorized as a securities offering. The preliminary settlement now suggests a shift toward resolution after nearly three years of litigation. Next steps in the settlement process In a recent court filing, attorneys for both the SEC and Gemini said they had reached a “settlement in principle” and requested until December 15, 2025, to finalize the paperwork. The deal will require formal approval by the Commission before it becomes binding. While details of the agreement remain confidential, the filing indicates that both sides have found common ground after months of negotiations. The case has been closely followed across the cryptocurrency industry because of its potential implications for crypto lending platforms and exchanges. The SEC has consistently argued that many crypto yield products fall under existing securities laws and must comply with registration requirements. By securing settlements in high-profile cases such as Genesis and now Gemini, the regulator aims to set precedents that could shape how digital asset firms design and market their products. For Gemini, resolving the lawsuit may remove a significant legal cloud as the company seeks to move forward with its business in an environment of heightened regulatory scrutiny. For the SEC, the settlement represents another step in its broader enforcement strategy, signaling that it intends to hold major players accountable while also encouraging firms to seek compliance. While final terms have not yet been disclosed, the eventual resolution of the case could bring closure for many investors who have been waiting for developments since the Earn program was halted. Industry analysts say the settlement may also provide clearer signals about how regulators expect similar products to be structured in the future. The Gemini case underscores the continuing tension between innovative financial products in the crypto sector and regulators’ efforts to ensure investor protection. As the final agreement moves toward approval, both market participants and policymakers will be watching closely to see what precedent this settlement sets for the industry going forward.

Bitwise Asset Management has formally filed an S-1 registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to launch a spot Avalanche exchange-traded fund (ETF), marking a new milestone in the effort to expand regulated crypto investment vehicles beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. If approved, the fund would give investors direct exposure to AVAX, the native token of the Avalanche blockchain, through traditional brokerage accounts. The proposed “Bitwise Avalanche ETF” would directly hold AVAX tokens rather than using futures contracts or synthetic derivatives, a structure designed to more closely reflect the underlying asset’s performance. The filing states that the ETF’s net asset value (NAV) will be calculated based on the CME CF Avalanche–Dollar Reference Rate, a pricing benchmark used to provide consistent and reliable valuations. Coinbase Custody has been selected as the custodian, with the AVAX tokens to be held in segregated cold storage wallets for enhanced security. Details of the filing According to public records, Bitwise registered the trust entity in Delaware on September 5, 2025, and followed with the detailed S-1 submission around September 15, 2025. The structure mirrors those of earlier spot crypto ETF filings for Bitcoin and Ethereum, which set a precedent earlier this year when the SEC granted long-awaited approvals after years of pushback. Bitwise’s application highlights a broader industry push to secure regulated pathways for institutional and retail investors seeking exposure to a wider range of blockchain ecosystems. Avalanche, a high-performance layer-1 blockchain known for its scalability and fast transaction finality, has gained momentum as an alternative to Ethereum. The filing represents an attempt to capture institutional interest in layer-1 projects that underpin decentralized finance, tokenized assets, and new blockchain-based applications. By introducing an Avalanche-focused ETF, Bitwise is signaling confidence in investor demand for diversified crypto investment options. Competitive landscape Bitwise is not alone in pursuing AVAX-based financial products. Other asset managers, including Grayscale and VanEck, have expressed interest in expanding beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum into alternative digital assets, with some firms already operating AVAX trusts for accredited investors. A spot Avalanche ETF, however, would provide a more accessible, exchange-listed option for broader market participants. Approval of such a product remains uncertain. While the SEC’s stance on Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs has softened, its regulatory position on alternative cryptocurrencies is still evolving. Analysts point to several factors that could influence the decision, including AVAX’s market liquidity, the robustness of custody arrangements, and broader concerns about whether certain tokens qualify as securities under U.S. law. A favorable ruling could open the door for similar single-asset ETFs tied to other prominent blockchains such as Solana or Cardano, accelerating the mainstreaming of the crypto sector. For now, the filing underscores Bitwise’s strategy of staying at the forefront of product innovation in digital assets. By targeting Avalanche, the firm is betting that investors are ready to look beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum toward a new generation of blockchain ecosystems. Whether regulators agree remains to be seen, but the move highlights the rapid evolution of crypto markets and the growing competition among asset managers to deliver the next wave of regulated investment products.

Strive, a digital asset and Bitcoin treasury firm, has officially announced the establishment of its board of directors as part of a broader strategy to position itself at the forefront of institutional Bitcoin adoption. The announcement coincides with the disclosure of its initial Bitcoin holdings and the launch of a large-scale capital initiative, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. New board members and leadership structure The board will be chaired by Strive’s Chief Executive Officer Matt Cole, who also serves as CEO of the public entity ASST. Cole, who has been vocal about Bitcoin’s role as a strategic asset, will guide the company alongside other senior executives, including Ben Pham (Chief Financial Officer), Logan Beirne (Chief Legal Officer), and Arshia Sarkhani (Chief Marketing Officer). In addition to the executive team, Strive has appointed external directors with significant expertise in both finance and the digital asset sector. Among them are Shirish Jajodia, Pierre Rochard, Ben Werkman, James Lavish, and Avik Roy. The mix of internal leadership and outside industry veterans reflects Strive’s effort to balance corporate governance with domain-specific insights critical for navigating an emerging and volatile sector. By assembling a board that combines traditional financial acumen with deep crypto knowledge, Strive aims to ensure its treasury model can withstand market turbulence while pursuing growth. The company also emphasized that this governance framework is intended to foster transparency, investor confidence, and strategic execution. Bitcoin holdings and financing plans Alongside the board announcement, Strive disclosed that it has already acquired 69 BTC as part of its treasury strategy, underscoring its commitment to adopting Bitcoin not only in principle but also in practice. While this initial holding is modest compared to established Bitcoin-treasury companies, Strive signaled that it views this as the beginning of a much larger accumulation effort. The company has launched a $750 million financing plan, which could expand to as much as $1.5 billion through the exercise of warrants. These funds are expected to be directed primarily toward Bitcoin acquisition, positioning Strive as one of the emerging corporate players seeking to make digital assets a core part of balance sheet strategy. According to management, the financing structure is designed to provide flexibility and scalability, enabling the company to increase its holdings as market opportunities present themselves. This financial roadmap follows shareholder approval of a merger earlier in September that consolidated Strive’s corporate structure and established a path for growth. By aligning governance, funding, and treasury operations, Strive aims to stand out in the growing cohort of publicly listed companies embracing Bitcoin. Industry implications and outlook Strive’s entry into the corporate Bitcoin treasury space comes at a time when more institutions are reconsidering digital assets in light of inflationary pressures, macroeconomic uncertainty, and shifting investor preferences. By positioning itself as both a steward of capital and an advocate for Bitcoin adoption, the company is betting that long-term value creation will stem from disciplined accumulation of the asset. Industry observers suggest that Strive’s dual strategy—building strong governance while deploying large-scale capital—could allow it to carve out a distinctive role in the sector. While the firm faces challenges from regulatory scrutiny and Bitcoin’s inherent volatility, its leadership team and board composition provide a foundation for resilience. As Strive begins its next phase, the establishment of its board and disclosure of Bitcoin holdings signal its intent to play a meaningful role in shaping corporate adoption of digital assets. With significant funding in motion and a team of industry veterans at the helm, the company is positioning itself to compete with established names in the corporate Bitcoin space, potentially accelerating the broader institutionalization of digital assets.

Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs) attracted a surge of inflows on Monday, highlighting growing institutional demand for digital assets through regulated investment vehicles. According to flow data, U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs registered net inflows of $259.9 million, while Ethereum ETFs pulled in $359.7 million. Combined, nearly $620 million entered crypto-linked ETFs in a single trading day, underscoring the appetite for exposure to the two largest digital assets. BlackRock’s funds once again played a central role in the day’s performance. The iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) recorded $261.8 million in net inflows, more than covering the $18.8 million in outflows from the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB). Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC) contributed an additional $7.5 million, though it trailed BlackRock’s dominance by a wide margin. Ethereum ETFs recorded even stronger inflows, led by BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA), which brought in $363.2 million on its own. Grayscale’s converted Ethereum Trust (ETHE) logged $10 million in inflows, continuing to show traction among investors despite the higher fees associated with its products. Fidelity’s Ethereum ETF (FETH), however, saw $13.5 million in outflows, reflecting the volatile and competitive dynamics of the space. Sustained Weekly Momentum The robust daily flows extend a broader trend of steady accumulation by institutional investors. For the week ending September 12, spot Bitcoin ETFs drew $2.34 billion in net inflows, marking the third straight week of significant gains. Ethereum ETFs also saw strong participation, with $638 million in net inflows, driven primarily by BlackRock and Fidelity offerings. These figures point to consistent interest in digital asset exposure as portfolio allocations expand beyond traditional asset classes. Market strategists suggest that the growing adoption of crypto ETFs underscores a shift in perception toward digital assets. Once considered highly speculative, Bitcoin and Ethereum are increasingly being treated as investable asset classes suitable for long-term institutional strategies. The presence of large, regulated issuers like BlackRock and Fidelity has only strengthened this narrative, providing investors with familiar, transparent vehicles to gain exposure. The inflows also mirror broader optimism in crypto markets, with Bitcoin trading near multi-month highs and Ethereum seeing heightened activity linked to staking and decentralized finance ecosystems. As regulatory clarity improves and product diversity expands, ETF flows are expected to remain a strong barometer of institutional sentiment. BlackRock’s Dominance Across Products BlackRock’s role in the market cannot be overlooked. With IBIT and ETHA consistently posting some of the largest daily inflows, the firm has cemented itself as the leading provider of crypto ETFs. Its dominance has been reinforced by strong brand recognition, competitive fee structures, and growing trust from institutional allocators. The scale of inflows suggests that institutional investors increasingly favor BlackRock’s offerings over smaller competitors. While issuers such as ARK and Grayscale continue to play meaningful roles, the gap in flows demonstrates the concentration of capital around the largest providers. Looking ahead, analysts believe that ETF flows will continue to influence broader crypto market dynamics. Sustained inflows not only validate digital assets as part of mainstream investment strategies but also provide additional liquidity and stability to the market. If these trends persist, Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs could play a pivotal role in bridging traditional finance with the evolving digital asset ecosystem.

Base, the Ethereum layer-2 network incubated by Coinbase, is considering issuing its own native token after previously ruling out such a move. The news was revealed by Jesse Pollak, the creator of Base, during the recent BaseCamp 2025 event. Pollak emphasized that the token would be built on Ethereum and that discussions remain in the preliminary phase. No concrete timeline or specifications for the token have been determined, and the network is weighing regulatory frameworks as a central factor in its decision-making process. “Compliance will be critical in how we approach any potential issuance,” Pollak said. Early talks raise questions about how Base intends to structure the token’s role. It remains unclear whether it would be designed primarily for governance, utility functions such as paying transaction fees, or incentive alignment through staking and rewards. Market participants note that token design choices could significantly shape user behavior and the long-term sustainability of the network. Industry analysts suggest that if Base proceeds with a native token, it could bring heightened attention to the network’s ecosystem. The possibility of a token launch is likely to fuel speculation about potential airdrops, staking programs, and other incentives. This could, in turn, drive developer engagement, increase liquidity, and accelerate user adoption, especially among retail traders seeking early participation in emerging ecosystems. Previous stance of no token The consideration marks a notable shift from Base’s earlier position. Since its launch, Base had repeatedly maintained that it had no plans to introduce a native token. Pollak and other leaders had previously stressed a focus on building decentralized applications and providing real-world use cases, rather than diverting attention toward token issuance. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong also dismissed rumors about a Base token in past public statements, reinforcing the company’s stance of prioritizing product development and compliance. This reversal reflects both the growing scale of Base’s operations and the evolving landscape for layer-2 solutions, where tokens often serve as coordination mechanisms and economic incentives. Competitors such as Optimism, Arbitrum, and Starknet have already launched native tokens, which are used to govern their ecosystems and provide incentives for validators and users. For Base, a token could help it compete more directly with these platforms. Regulatory scrutiny ahead Given Coinbase’s U.S. roots and close association with regulatory authorities, any move to launch a Base token would face significant oversight. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and other regulators have closely scrutinized token launches in recent years, raising concerns over whether such assets qualify as securities. Coinbase itself has been embroiled in legal disputes with regulators over token classification, making the path forward for a Base token particularly complex. Observers believe that how Base navigates these challenges will be crucial in determining the structure, distribution, and long-term utility of the proposed token. Careful attention will likely be placed on ensuring that any issuance complies with securities laws and offers transparent governance models. Failure to adequately address regulatory concerns could expose the network and Coinbase to significant legal risks. While still in early stages, the exploration of a native token signals that Base may soon join the ranks of other layer-2 networks leveraging tokenization to expand adoption and community alignment. For now, the industry will be watching closely to see whether the network can balance innovation with regulatory compliance as it considers a move that could reshape its trajectory.

The U.S. crypto ETF market is preparing for a significant expansion as REX Shares and Osprey Funds move forward with exchange-traded funds tied to Dogecoin and XRP. The products, expected to debut on September 18, 2025, would mark the first time American investors gain regulated ETF exposure to the two digital assets. However, the funds’ hybrid structures mean they may not behave like traditional “spot” ETFs, leaving uncertainty about investor demand and market influence. Launch details and regulatory framework According to filings, the XRP ETF will trade under the ticker XRPR, while the Dogecoin ETF will list under DOJE. Unlike the spot Bitcoin ETFs launched earlier this year under the Securities Act of 1933, the REX-Osprey products are structured under the Investment Company Act of 1940. This legal framework allows for portfolios that mix direct token holdings with cash, Treasuries, derivatives, or exposure through other ETFs. The XRPR fund is expected to hold some XRP directly, but analysts note that it will also contain other assets to meet operational and regulatory requirements. The Dogecoin ETF is likely to rely more heavily on derivatives, with exposure routed through a Cayman Islands subsidiary. This makes the DOJE fund less of a direct mirror of Dogecoin’s market price and more of a hybrid investment product that blends various forms of exposure. The funds’ effective registrations suggest they have cleared regulatory hurdles, but the timing has not been without delays. The launch was originally anticipated earlier in the year but was pushed back, with September 18 now targeted as the official debut. Past experiences with crypto ETF approvals, however, show that last-minute adjustments remain possible. Uncertainty over investor appetite The arrival of altcoin ETFs represents another step in the mainstreaming of cryptocurrencies, but opinions diverge on what the market impact will be. Supporters argue the funds expand access to alternative cryptocurrencies, offering retail and institutional investors new regulated avenues for exposure. Critics caution that the hybrid asset mix could reduce the correlation between the ETFs and the underlying tokens, making them less appealing to those who seek straightforward, spot-based investments. Market reactions ahead of the launch have been cautious compared to the anticipation surrounding Bitcoin ETFs. XRP and Dogecoin prices have seen modest upward movement, but analysts point to mixed trading signals and notable whale activity, which adds complexity to forecasting investor behavior. Unlike the billions in inflows generated by Bitcoin ETFs, demand for XRPR and DOJE remains uncertain. Institutional investors may view the products as a way to test appetite for altcoin exposure without venturing into unregulated markets, while retail traders could be drawn by the novelty of the first regulated Dogecoin and XRP ETFs. The balance of these two groups will likely determine whether the funds gain meaningful traction. As these ETFs prepare to enter the market, they represent a test case for whether investor interest extends beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. Their success could pave the way for a broader range of altcoin-focused ETFs in the United States. Conversely, a lukewarm reception would suggest that investor demand remains concentrated in the largest and most established digital assets. In either case, the launches will mark an important moment in the ongoing evolution of crypto investment products.

The Ethereum Foundation has announced the formation of a new research initiative known as the dAI Team, a group dedicated to advancing decentralized artificial intelligence (AI) on Ethereum. The initiative, led by Ethereum Foundation researcher Davide Crapis, seeks to integrate AI systems into the blockchain in ways that are transparent, secure, and resistant to centralized control. The move comes amid rising interest in combining blockchain and AI, two technologies often seen as shaping the next generation of digital infrastructure. Strengthening Ethereum’s role in AI The central mission of the dAI Team is to establish Ethereum as the primary settlement and coordination layer for AI agents and the wider machine economy. In practice, this means that AI-powered agents could use Ethereum as their home base for identity verification, transactional trust, and reputation management. By embedding these functions on-chain, AI systems would gain a level of security and auditability unavailable in closed, centralized systems. One of the team’s first initiatives is to advance ERC-8004, a proposed Ethereum standard aimed at creating trusted and identifiable AI agents on the network. The standard is designed to enable AI agents to carry out transactions reliably, ensuring that they can be identified and held accountable within the Ethereum ecosystem. This framework would allow agents not only to interact with one another but also to engage safely in financial transactions with human users. An initial version of ERC-8004 is expected to debut during Devconnect, Ethereum’s annual developer conference scheduled for November. The broader implications of ERC-8004 could extend far beyond technical specifications. If adopted, the standard could allow Ethereum to serve as the backbone for an economy where autonomous AI systems negotiate contracts, exchange assets, and provide services without human intervention. Observers suggest this could mark the beginning of a new economic paradigm in which machines conduct business with machines, underpinned by decentralized trust. Laying the groundwork for decentralized AI Beyond standards, the dAI Team intends to explore the development of a full decentralized AI stack. This would include payment infrastructures tailored for AI services, frameworks for trust and identity, and cross-ecosystem standards designed to ensure interoperability across blockchain networks and AI platforms. The objective is to build a robust foundation where AI can operate freely, without being dependent on centralized intermediaries that may restrict or manipulate access. Crapis emphasized in his announcement that Ethereum has a unique opportunity to ensure AI development remains open and community-driven. By rooting AI in decentralized technology, Ethereum could mitigate concerns around monopolistic control of artificial intelligence by large corporations. This perspective resonates with ongoing debates about the risks of concentrated power in AI, particularly as the technology becomes more capable and integrated into critical economic and social functions. The creation of the dAI Team signals a strategic expansion for Ethereum, which is traditionally known for decentralized finance applications. By moving decisively into the AI space, Ethereum is positioning itself at the intersection of two transformative technologies. If successful, the initiative could open new avenues for adoption, ensuring that Ethereum remains central not only to the future of finance but also to the future of intelligent machines. The launch underscores Ethereum’s long-term vision: to evolve beyond its origins as a platform for smart contracts and decentralized finance into a global settlement layer for human and machine coordination. As AI continues to advance, the partnership between decentralized technology and intelligent systems may define the contours of the next digital era.

John Egan, the former Head of Crypto at payments firm Stripe, has joined Polygon Labs as Chief Product Officer, the company announced this week. The move marks a significant talent shift from traditional fintech into blockchain infrastructure, underscoring Polygon’s growing ambitions in the payments space. Egan, who begins his role on Tuesday, will oversee product development across Polygon’s ecosystem. At Stripe, he played a central role in shaping the company’s crypto payments and Web3 strategies. His move to Polygon comes as the network builds out its new Tempo blockchain and strengthens its position as one of the leading Ethereum scaling solutions. Focus on blockchain payments Polygon Labs said Egan’s appointment is intended to accelerate its push into real-world payment solutions, an area where his experience at Stripe could prove pivotal. Stripe has long been one of the most prominent fintech firms experimenting with crypto rails, and Egan’s transition signals that Polygon is serious about bridging blockchain technology with mainstream financial applications. “We’re entering a phase where payments and blockchain are converging, and John’s expertise will be vital in shaping how Polygon leads in this space,” a Polygon spokesperson said in a statement. Industry analysts expect his leadership to strengthen the firm’s efforts to attract fintech partners and payment providers to build on Polygon’s infrastructure. Polygon has already positioned itself as a go-to scaling solution for Ethereum, boasting a strong developer ecosystem and widespread adoption across decentralized finance, gaming, and enterprise projects. With Egan at the helm of product strategy, the company is expected to place a renewed emphasis on payments, expanding its offerings beyond DeFi to target mainstream commercial use cases. Implications for fintech and Web3 The move comes at a time when fintech firms and blockchain projects are competing to define the future of digital payments. Stripe, once an early leader in crypto experimentation, has scaled back some of its initiatives in recent years. However, it remains a highly influential player in the sector. Egan’s departure suggests that some of the most forward-looking talent in fintech sees greater opportunity in blockchain-native platforms like Polygon. Industry observers argue that the convergence of fintech and blockchain is inevitable. Payment networks are searching for ways to settle transactions faster, cheaper, and across borders. Polygon’s Tempo blockchain, designed to enhance scalability and throughput, could play a central role in achieving that. By bringing in an executive who has operated at the intersection of global payments and crypto, Polygon is sending a clear signal that it intends to compete directly in this space. The hire also reflects a broader trend of talent migration from traditional finance and fintech into Web3 companies. As regulatory frameworks evolve and blockchain infrastructure matures, many executives view decentralized networks as offering the most compelling opportunities for innovation. Egan’s move, in particular, highlights the strategic shift toward embedding blockchain into everyday financial transactions. For Polygon, the timing is critical. As it seeks to position itself as a default settlement layer for fintech companies and payment providers, leadership from someone with Egan’s experience may prove decisive. His track record at Stripe—where he worked on initiatives designed to bring crypto payments to millions of users—suggests he will push for aggressive integration of blockchain into mainstream financial applications. With Egan stepping into his role this week, the industry will be watching closely to see how Polygon Labs evolves its product roadmap. If successful, the combination of Polygon’s technical infrastructure and Egan’s payments expertise could accelerate the long-awaited convergence of fintech and blockchain.

Crypto wallet MetaMask has launched its own dollar-pegged stablecoin, mUSD, becoming the first self-custodial wallet to issue a native digital dollar unit. The stablecoin, which went live Monday, is being issued by Bridge, a Stripe-owned stablecoin platform, and minted through decentralized infrastructure developed by M0. MetaMask said mUSD will be fully backed 1:1 by “high-quality, highly liquid dollar-equivalent assets,” with real-time transparency and cross-chain interoperability through M0’s liquidity network. As of Monday, mUSD’s circulating supply stood at about $18 million, according to the project’s website. MetaMask said the stablecoin is aimed at expanding activity on Linea’s DeFi ecosystem and will later connect to a planned MetaMask Card, developed with Mastercard, enabling cardholders to spend mUSD in everyday transactions. The move follows MetaMask’s broader push into payments. In April, the company announced a waitlist for its crypto card, also in partnership with Mastercard. The launch comes as competition heats up in the stablecoin sector. Earlier this month, Tether unveiled plans for a U.S.-compliant token dubbed USAT, while trading platform Hyperliquid announced its own native stablecoin. Traditional banks have also begun exploring tokenized dollars, buoyed by regulatory clarity in the United States. MetaMask, incubated by Ethereum developer Consensys, said the move positions mUSD as the “default digital dollar unit” across its ecosystem. Users will be able to on-ramp, hold, swap, transfer, and bridge the stablecoin directly inside the wallet, with plans to enable payments via the MetaMask Card at Mastercard-accepting merchants by year-end. MetaMask, which was originally built as the go-to wallet for Ethereum, has gradually evolved into a multi-chain hub as competition among smart contract platforms has intensified. Until recently, users needed third-party tools or custom RPC setups to access blockchains outside the Ethereum ecosystem. Native integration with major chains like Solana, BNB Smart Chain, and now MetaMask has steadily broadened its offerings. In May, it enabled support for Solana SPL tokens, while also working with BNB Smart Chain and Sei, alongside Ethereum layer-2 networks. The addition of Tron comes as the network pursues greater visibility in global markets. In June, toy maker SRM Entertainment announced plans to rebrand as Tron Inc. and adopt TRX as part of its treasury, with Tron founder Justin Sun acting as adviser. This integration could also serve as a test case for how MetaMask approaches other high-volume but controversial networks. Tron, despite its growth, has faced regulatory scrutiny in the U.S., with founder Justin Sun previously charged by the SEC over alleged securities violations.

What Was Resolved? Gemini Trust Company and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have reached a resolution in principle over a lawsuit tied to the exchange’s Gemini Earn lending program. In a filing submitted Monday to Judge Edgardo Ramos in New York, lawyers for both parties said the agreement would “completely resolve this litigation,” pending final approval from the Commission. They also asked for all pending case deadlines to be put on hold while the deal is reviewed. The SEC originally charged Gemini and Genesis Global Capital in January 2023 for the unregistered offer and sale of securities to retail investors through Gemini Earn. The program, launched in 2021 by the Winklevoss-led exchange, allowed customers to lend crypto to Genesis in exchange for yields of up to 7.4% APY. Genesis later filed for bankruptcy, leaving customers locked out of funds and intensifying regulatory scrutiny. Investor Takeaway The resolution could close one of Gemini’s biggest legal overhangs, potentially strengthening its standing with investors following its recent Nasdaq debut. Why the SEC Case Mattered The SEC argued that Gemini Earn was effectively an unregistered securities offering that failed to provide adequate disclosures to retail investors. At the time, the case was part of a broader crackdown on crypto lending products after the collapse of firms like Celsius and BlockFi. For Gemini, the litigation became a major reputational risk just as it pursued regulatory compliance and a public listing. The resolution follows a shift in the SEC’s posture under new leadership. Since President Donald Trump appointed crypto-friendly regulator Paul Atkins to lead the Commission in January, the agency has launched Project Crypto to modernize rules for digital assets and dropped lawsuits against firms including Coinbase, Binance, and Ripple. The Gemini settlement appears consistent with that more accommodative approach. What’s Next for Gemini? The settlement comes just days after Gemini’s $425 million IPO and Nasdaq debut, underscoring how the firm is attempting to move past its legal troubles and reposition as a compliance-forward platform. Founded in 2014 by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, Gemini has built a reputation as a regulated custodian and exchange in the U.S., though it has struggled to keep pace with Coinbase and Binance in trading volumes. Resolving the SEC case removes a major uncertainty hanging over the firm. It could help Gemini attract institutional partners and regain consumer confidence after the fallout from Genesis’s bankruptcy, which left Earn users battling for redemptions. Investor Takeaway With its IPO complete and the SEC case nearing closure, Gemini may gain momentum in restoring trust—but competition and lingering customer claims still pose risks. Broader Implications for Crypto Regulation The Gemini settlement could set a precedent for how the SEC handles legacy enforcement actions as it transitions toward clearer digital asset frameworks. Rather than pushing for prolonged court battles, regulators may favor negotiated resolutions that bring firms into compliance while clearing the docket of high-profile cases. For the crypto industry, the case illustrates both the risks of unregistered lending products and the shifting regulatory environment in Washington. With “Project Crypto” underway, exchanges and stablecoin issuers are watching closely to see whether a more collaborative approach translates into faster product approvals and greater investor protections.

Britain announced on Saturday that major U.S. financial firms will inject more than £1.25 billion ($1.69 billion) into the UK economy, a package expected to create nearly 1,800 jobs across London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Manchester. The U.S. is already Britain’s single largest foreign investor, with American companies accounting for more than 1.2 million UK jobs, according to the Office for National Statistics. The Department for Business and Trade said the commitments from companies including PayPal, Bank of America, Citigroup and S&P Global underline deepening transatlantic ties. The announcement comes days before President Donald Trump is due to begin his second state visit to Britain. U.S.-UK trade in goods and services reached £279 billion ($374 billion) in 2024, making the U.S. Britain’s most important bilateral trading partner outside the European Union. Banking Giants Expand Footprint Bank of America will set up its first operation in Northern Ireland, a move projected to create up to 1,000 jobs in Belfast. The bank already employs more than 5,000 people in London and Chester, and its Belfast expansion will mark its largest UK hiring push outside England. Northern Ireland’s financial services sector employs around 40,000 people, and officials have been courting U.S. investment to diversify beyond traditional manufacturing. Citigroup has pledged £1.1 billion to expand its UK operations, with part of the investment focused on Northern Ireland. Citi is one of London’s biggest investment banking employers, with more than 9,000 UK staff, and has been consolidating its post-Brexit European operations in Paris and Frankfurt while maintaining London as a key trading hub. Elsewhere, S&P Global will channel more than £4 million into Manchester, supporting 200 permanent roles. Manchester has become a major regional hub for financial services, with HSBC, Barclays and JP Morgan all expanding operations there in recent years as part of the UK government’s “levelling up” agenda. BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, is preparing to allocate £7 billion to UK markets next year and has opened a new office in Edinburgh, nearly doubling its headcount in Scotland. BlackRock manages over $10 trillion globally, and its expansion in Edinburgh underscores Scotland’s role as a European hub for asset management, already home to more than £600 billion in managed funds. “These investments reflect the strength of our enduring ‘golden corridor’ with one of our closest trading partners,” Britain’s trade minister Peter Kyle said. Finance minister Rachel Reeves added that the commitments would “kickstart the growth that is essential to putting money in working people’s pockets across every part of the United Kingdom.” The government said the new deals contribute to around £20 billion in bilateral trade between Britain and the United States. This figure is part of a wider trend: American FDI stock in the UK stands at over £400 billion, making the U.S. the UK’s most significant investor, while British companies hold more than £600 billion in U.S. assets. Separately, the British Embassy in Washington said the two countries plan to sign a technology cooperation agreement in the coming days to strengthen collaboration between their trillion-dollar tech sectors. The UK tech sector was valued at $1.1 trillion in 2024, making it the third-largest in the world after the U.S. and China, while the U.S. sector is worth over $10 trillion. The proposed agreement is expected to cover AI regulation, fintech standards, and cybersecurity frameworks.

The blockchain industry is often explained in layers, with each layer serving a unique role in enabling decentralized finance, cryptocurrencies, and other use cases. Most people are familiar with Layer 1 blockchains such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, which act as base networks where transactions are recorded and secured. Others know Layer 2 solutions, like Polygon or Arbitrum, that build on top of Layer 1s to improve scalability. But at the very foundation lies Layer 0—an essential but less understood part of the blockchain stack. Layer 0 protocols provide the underlying infrastructure that makes it possible for multiple blockchains to exist, interact, and scale. Key Takeaways Layer 0 is the foundation of the blockchain stack, enabling the creation and connection of multiple independent Layer 1 blockchains. Interoperability and scalability are the core strengths of Layer 0, allowing blockchains to communicate and process activity in parallel. Polkadot, Cosmos, and Avalanche are leading examples, each offering unique approaches to shared security, interoperability, and customization. Developers gain flexibility to build blockchains with custom governance, consensus, and tokenomics without starting from scratch. Layer 0 is performing well in practice, with Polkadot parachains, Cosmos IBC adoption, and Avalanche subnets showing real-world use cases. Defining Layer 0 Blockchains A Layer 0 blockchain refers to the foundational protocol that enables the creation and connection of multiple independent blockchains (Layer 1s). Unlike traditional Layer 1 blockchains, which focus on transaction validation, security, and consensus, Layer 0 solutions focus on interoperability, customization, and scalability. In simple terms: Layer 0 is the base infrastructure. Layer 1 is the blockchain built on top of it. Layer 2 enhances Layer 1 by improving speed, scalability, or costs. For example, Polkadot’s Relay Chain and Cosmos’ Tendermint & Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol are prominent Layer 0 solutions. They allow developers to launch new blockchains (called parachains in Polkadot or zones in Cosmos) while ensuring these chains can communicate and share security. Key Features of Layer 0 Blockchains There are different benefit of Layer 0 blockchain in market, we’ve outlined four of these features below. Interoperability: Layer 0 protocols allow multiple blockchains to communicate with each other. This prevents the fragmentation often seen in the crypto space, where assets and data get locked into isolated ecosystems. Customizable Blockchains: Developers can create their own Layer 1 blockchains using Layer 0 infrastructure. These chains can be tailored with unique consensus mechanisms, governance models, and token economies without having to build everything from scratch. Shared Security: Some Layer 0 networks, like Polkadot, provide a shared security model. This means that blockchains built on top of Layer 0 can rely on the underlying infrastructure’s validators, making them more secure. Scalability and Efficiency: By distributing activity across multiple connected blockchains, Layer 0 networks reduce congestion and improve scalability compared to single-chain Layer 1 models. Examples of Layer 0 Protocols Polkadot Polkadot, created by Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood, is one of the most notable examples of a Layer 0 blockchain. At its core lies the Relay Chain, which serves as the foundational infrastructure connecting the network. On top of this, Polkadot supports parachains—independent blockchains that can be customized with their own governance, tokenomics, and use cases while still benefiting from the Relay Chain’s shared security. This combination allows developers to innovate freely without sacrificing interoperability or safety. Cosmos Cosmos takes a slightly different approach to Layer 0 architecture, relying on the Tendermint consensus engine and the Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol to connect its ecosystem. Within Cosmos, developers can create sovereign blockchains known as zones, each with full control over its governance and consensus. These zones interact through the Cosmos Hub, enabling seamless communication and asset transfers across the wider network while preserving independence. Avalanche (partially considered Layer 0) Avalanche is sometimes viewed as a Layer 0 solution because of its primary network, which acts as the base layer for launching customizable subnets—blockchains tailored to specific applications. It has a high throughput and low latency, ensuring fast transaction speeds without compromising scalability. It also supports multiple virtual machines, giving developers flexibility to design blockchain environments that best fit their needs. Why Layer 0 Matters Scalability: Traditional blockchains face limitations when handling high transaction volumes, often resulting in congestion and high fees. Layer 0 networks solve this by enabling the deployment of multiple parallel blockchains that can process transactions simultaneously. Instead of relying on one monolithic chain, activity is distributed across interconnected networks, improving efficiency and throughput. Interoperability: One of the biggest barriers to blockchain adoption is the lack of communication between isolated ecosystems. Tokens, assets, and data often remain locked within a single chain, creating friction for users and developers. Layer 0 protocols bridge these gaps by allowing different blockchains to interact seamlessly, fostering a more unified and accessible Web3 environment. Innovation: Perhaps the most transformative aspect of Layer 0 is the freedom it offers developers. By providing modular frameworks, these networks allow teams to design their own blockchains with custom governance structures, consensus mechanisms, and economic models. This flexibility encourages experimentation while still benefiting from the shared infrastructure and security of the Layer 0 foundation. Taken together, these capabilities position Layer 0 as the backbone of a multi-chain future. Much like the TCP/IP protocol formed the foundation of the internet, Layer 0 provides the standard infrastructure upon which scalable, interoperable, and innovative blockchain ecosystems can be built. The Difference Between Layer 0, Layer 1, and Layer 2 To understand Layer 0’s significance, it helps to distinguish it from the other layers of blockchain technology Layer 0: The infrastructure framework that makes it possible to build and connect multiple blockchains (e.g., Polkadot, Cosmos). Layer 1: Independent blockchains that provide security, consensus, and transaction processing, and may be supported by Layer 0 foundations (e.g., Ethereum, Solana, or parachains on Polkadot). Layer 2: Protocols built on top of Layer 1 to improve scalability, reduce costs, and increase speed, often through rollups or sidechains (e.g., Arbitrum, Optimism). Together, these layers form the stack of blockchain innovation—with Layer 0 at the foundation, Layer 1 providing the base networks, and Layer 2 scaling them to meet real-world demand. Conclusion Layer 0 blockchains form the foundation of a multi-chain Web3, powering scalability, interoperability, and innovation across ecosystems. With networks like Polkadot, Cosmos, and Avalanche already showing real-world adoption, Layer 0 is emerging as the backbone of decentralized infrastructure Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What is a Layer 0 blockchain in simple terms?Layer 0 is the foundational infrastructure that allows multiple blockchains (Layer 1s) to be created, customized, and connected. 2. How does Layer 0 differ from Layer 1 and Layer 2?Layer 0 provides the base infrastructure, Layer 1s are the blockchains built on top, and Layer 2s are scaling solutions for Layer 1s. 3. Why is Layer 0 important for Web3?It solves scalability issues, enables interoperability between chains, and supports innovation by offering modular frameworks for developers. 4. What are examples of Layer 0 blockchains?Polkadot, Cosmos, and Avalanche are the most prominent Layer 0 ecosystems, each enabling the creation of connected blockchains. 5. Is Layer 0 technology being used today?Yes. Polkadot parachains, Cosmos’ IBC protocol, and Avalanche subnets are already powering real-world applications in DeFi, gaming, and enterprise.

How Native Markets Secured the USDH Ticker Native Markets, a Hyperliquid ecosystem team, has officially secured the USDH stablecoin ticker after a community vote, defeating bids from major players including Paxos, BitGo, Ethena, and Frax. The outcome concluded Hyperliquid’s first major governance contest and drew widespread industry attention. The ticker was awarded by a two-thirds supermajority of staked HYPE tokens, with Native Markets moving immediately to deploy the inaugural Hyperliquid Improvement Proposal (HIP). Prediction markets had heavily favored Native Markets after Ethena dropped out, with odds spiking above 99% on Polymarket. The project will now launch USDH in a staged rollout, beginning with capped test transactions and a USDH/USDC spot market before allowing uncapped minting and redemptions. Investor Takeaway Native Markets’ victory shows the growing weight of ecosystem-native teams in governance battles, but criticism over transparency could shape perceptions of Hyperliquid’s decentralization. Why the Selection Sparked Controversy The USDH bidding war was one of the most closely watched contests in stablecoin history, attracting established crypto firms alongside DeFi-native startups. But industry executives expressed skepticism over the fairness of the process. Dragonfly’s Haseeb Qureshi described the request-for-proposal as “a bit of a farce,” suggesting validators had no real interest in considering bidders beyond Native Markets. Others implied the outcome resembled a pre-arranged decision rather than an open competition. Despite this criticism, Hyperliquid’s validator community backed Native Markets decisively, and the Hyperliquid Foundation abstained from the vote. The episode has reignited debate over whether governance processes in DeFi protocols are truly open—or if validator interests skew results toward insiders. What USDH Will Look Like Native Markets plans to issue USDH on Hyperliquid’s HyperEVM, with reserves managed through a combination of off-chain and on-chain assets. According to its proposal, reserves will be fully backed by cash and U.S. Treasuries, initially managed by BlackRock off-chain and Superstate via Stripe-owned Bridge on-chain. Yield from reserves will be split between HYPE buybacks and ecosystem growth initiatives to expand USDH adoption. The launch marks Hyperliquid’s first natively issued dollar stablecoin, positioning USDH to compete with Circle’s USDC, which currently dominates with nearly $6 billion in reserves on the platform. USDC and other stablecoins will remain supported as long as they meet minimum thresholds, including a strong $1 peg, sufficient depth against USDC and HYPE, and a 200,000 HYPE stake worth about $10 million. Investor Takeaway USDH’s design—linking stablecoin growth to HYPE buybacks—creates a feedback loop that could boost the token’s value, but it also concentrates ecosystem risks on one protocol’s governance model. What It Means for Stablecoin Competition The USDH race reflects broader shifts in the stablecoin sector. Industry executives argue that stablecoins are becoming commoditized, with front-end exchanges likely to abstract away tickers and display a generic “USD” to users, while swapping between issuers in the background. If so, differentiation will depend less on branding and more on liquidity, compliance, and integration with major platforms. For Hyperliquid, winning native issuance could cement its role as the leading decentralized derivatives exchange, which already controls about 70% of decentralized perpetuals trading. For competitors like Circle, the emergence of USDH poses a direct challenge in one of DeFi’s fastest-growing markets. Native Markets, co-founded by Max Fiege, Anish Agnihotri, and MC Lader, has emphasized its mix of Hyperliquid experience, institutional credibility, and technical expertise. Its success in this vote highlights how protocol-native teams with strong validator support may increasingly outmaneuver established stablecoin giants in governance contests.

What Robinhood Filed With the SEC Robinhood has filed a Form N-2 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to launch its first closed-end venture capital vehicle, the Robinhood Ventures Fund I (RVI). If approved, shares of the fund will list on the New York Stock Exchange, enabling everyday investors to buy and sell exposure to Robinhood’s venture portfolio through regular brokerage accounts. The fund will be managed by Robinhood Ventures DE, a newly created subsidiary. According to the filing, the fund intends to back companies “at the frontiers of their respective industries,” though Robinhood did not disclose target sectors. Traditionally, access to these kinds of early-stage, private investments has been restricted to institutional players and high-net-worth individuals. Investor Takeaway If approved, RVI could democratize access to venture capital returns, giving retail investors a rare opportunity to participate in early-stage innovation through a listed vehicle. Why This Marks a Shift in Access Venture capital has historically been a closed club, with regulatory barriers limiting exposure to accredited investors. Robinhood’s closed-end structure, traded on a public exchange, could change that by offering a liquid, regulated route for retail investors. It would also expand Robinhood’s brand beyond retail brokerage into private markets. The move comes as Robinhood deepens its footprint in digital assets. The firm already provides cryptocurrency trading, recently acquired Bitstamp, and bought Canadian crypto firm WonderFi for $179 million. It has also experimented with tokenized stocks and “private stock tokens,” signaling interest in bridging public and private markets via blockchain. How the Venture Landscape Is Evolving Global venture capital funding is rebounding. According to S&P Global, VC investment totaled $189.3 billion in H1 2025, up from $152.4 billion a year earlier. Much of the activity has centered on artificial intelligence startups, but crypto-related deals are regaining momentum. Data from CryptoRank show $10 billion raised in Q2 alone, the sector’s strongest quarter since 2022. Crypto venture themes include tokenization, stablecoin infrastructure, and decentralized finance. Yet under U.S. securities law, early-stage offerings remain largely off-limits to retail investors. By structuring RVI as a closed-end fund, Robinhood could offer indirect access while staying within regulatory guardrails. Investor Takeaway Retail participation in venture has been rare. Robinhood’s plan could create a new template for listed funds tied to private markets, though risks of illiquidity and volatility remain. What’s Next for Robinhood’s Strategy Approval of the RVI fund would mark Robinhood’s boldest step yet into alternative assets. It could attract investors seeking growth opportunities beyond public equities and ETFs, particularly those locked out of traditional VC funds. It may also boost Robinhood’s positioning in tokenization, where it is experimenting with fractionalized private equity and other blockchain-native investment products. For regulators, the fund will test whether retail investors can safely access venture returns through listed structures. For Robinhood, success would open the door to further funds and deepen its role as a bridge between Wall Street, Silicon Valley, and emerging crypto markets.

Gold rallies to record highs on Fed rate-cut expectations, weaker dollar, geopolitical tensions, safe-haven demand, and strong bullish sentiment. Anticipated Federal Reserve Interest Rate Cuts The primary catalyst for gold’s recent rally is the market’s strong belief that the U.S. Federal Reserve is on the verge of a new rate-cutting cycle. This is a critical development for gold because of its inverse relationship with interest rates and the U.S. Dollar. Impact of Lower Rates: Gold is a non-yielding asset, meaning it doesn’t generate interest like bonds or savings accounts. When the Fed lowers interest rates, the “opportunity cost” of holding gold decreases. In other words, other investments become less attractive because they offer a lower return, making gold’s lack of yield less of a disadvantage. This encourages investors to shift capital into gold. Weakening U.S. Dollar: Rate cuts tend to weaken the U.S. Dollar. Since gold is priced in dollars, a softer dollar makes the precious metal cheaper for investors holding other currencies, thereby boosting global demand and pushing the price higher. Market Consensus: The CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, which indicates a near-certain 95% probability of a 25 basis point cut. This high level of confidence is a significant factor, as it suggests that a rate cut is already largely priced into the market, but the outcome of the FOMC meeting on Wednesday, particularly Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s comments and the “dot plot” of future rate projections, will provide fresh directional impetus. Escalating Geopolitical Tensions Geopolitical risks are a key pillar of gold’s appeal, cementing its role as a safe-haven asset. There are several specific instances of rising global instability that are contributing to the supportive fundamental backdrop for gold. Russia-Ukraine Conflict: A large-scale attack by Ukraine on Russian energy facilities, which signals an intensification of the conflict. This, coupled with the U.S. stepping up pressure on NATO countries to tighten sanctions on Russia, creates a climate of uncertainty that drives investors towards gold. Middle East Instability: An Iranian lawmaker’s call for Qatar to host missiles to counter Israeli threats adds another layer of risk in the Middle East. Such statements heighten regional tensions and the possibility of a wider conflict, which historically has been a strong catalyst for safe-haven flows into gold. Flight to Safety: In times of political or economic turmoil, investors often move away from riskier assets like stocks and turn to “store of value” assets that are expected to hold their value, such as gold. Gold’s supportive fundamental backdrop means that any corrective dips are seen as buying opportunities, reinforcing this safe-haven behavior.  Gold’s New Record-High Price Gold has hit a fresh all-time record high, surpassing its previous peak of $3,674 and trading at $3,685. This is not just a technical milestone but a fundamental development driven by the convergence of the factors mentioned above. Confirmation of Bullish Sentiment: The breach of the previous record demonstrates that the market’s conviction in the bullish narrative is strong. It’s a sign that traders are willing to place aggressive bets on gold’s continued ascent, anticipating further upside potential towards the $3,700 and even $3,800 targets. Broader Market Shift: The rally in gold is occurring alongside other market movements, such as the U.S. Dollar trading with a softer tone and U.S. Treasury bond yields being depressed. This indicates a broader shift in investor sentiment, where the environment is becoming increasingly favorable for the non-yielding precious metal. Buying Momentum: The fact that gold continues to attract “dip-buyers” and is poised to challenge new psychological levels suggests that the upward momentum is sustained and not merely a fleeting spike. This indicates that the market views the current price as justified by the fundamental developments and sees a clear path for further gains.   Top upcoming economic events: 1. Fed Interest Rate Decision (Wednesday, September 17, 2025) Date: 09/17/2025 at 18:00:00 Importance: This is arguably the most significant event on the calendar. The Federal Reserve’s decision on interest rates directly influences the borrowing costs for banks, businesses, and consumers across the U.S. and globally. A change in the rate can have a profound effect on currency valuations (USD), stock market performance, bond yields, and overall economic activity. The market will be watching not only the rate decision but also the accompanying statement and economic projections to gauge the Fed’s outlook on inflation and economic growth. 2. FOMC Press Conference (Wednesday, September 17, 2025) Date: 09/17/2025 at 18:30:00 Importance: Following the interest rate decision, the Fed Chair’s press conference is crucial. It provides a deeper understanding of the central bank’s reasoning behind its policy decision and offers forward guidance on future actions. The tone of the conference can create significant market volatility as traders and investors react to the nuances of the Fed’s message. 3. BoE Interest Rate Decision (Thursday, September 18, 2025) Date: 09/18/2025 at 11:00:00 Importance: The Bank of England’s decision on its interest rate is the primary driver of monetary policy in the United Kingdom. Changes to the rate directly impact the British Pound (GBP) and the broader UK economy. The accompanying minutes will provide insight into the votes of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) members, which can indicate future policy direction. 4. BoC Interest Rate Decision (Wednesday, September 17, 2025) Date: 09/17/2025 at 13:45:00 Importance: The Bank of Canada’s interest rate decision is a key determinant of the Canadian dollar’s (CAD) value. It influences borrowing and lending rates throughout Canada, and the accompanying monetary policy statement provides critical context for the central bank’s economic outlook. 5. BoJ Interest Rate Decision (Friday, September 19, 2025) Date: 09/19/2025 at 03:00:00 Importance: The Bank of Japan’s policy is particularly notable for its long history of unconventional measures to combat deflation. The interest rate decision and the accompanying policy statement are highly anticipated by the market, as any change in stance or new stimulus measures can cause significant volatility in the Japanese Yen (JPY) and Japanese equities. 6. UK Consumer Price Index (YoY) (Wednesday, September 17, 2025) Date: 09/17/2025 at 06:00:00 Importance: This report measures the change in prices of goods and services purchased by consumers. It is a key indicator of inflation, which is the Bank of England’s primary target. A higher-than-expected inflation reading could pressure the BoE to raise interest rates, which would strengthen the GBP. 7. U.S. Retail Sales (MoM) (Tuesday, September 16, 2025) Date: 09/16/2025 at 12:30:00 Importance: This is a crucial measure of consumer spending, which accounts for a large portion of the U.S. economy. Strong retail sales indicate a healthy economy and can support a more hawkish stance from the Fed, while weak sales could suggest economic slowdown. The “Retail Sales Control Group” is also highly important as it is a key component of GDP calculation. 8. UK Claimant Count Change (Tuesday, September 16, 2025) Date: 09/16/2025 at 06:00:00 Importance: This report measures the change in the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits in the UK. It is a timely indicator of the health of the UK labor market. A significant increase could signal a weakening economy and put pressure on the GBP. 9. ECB’s President Lagarde speech (Monday, September 15, 2025 & Wednesday, September 17, 2025 & Thursday, September 18, 2025) Date: 09/15/2025 at 18:10:00, 09/17/2025 at 07:30:00 and 09/18/2025 at 07:10:00 Importance: As the President of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde’s speeches are closely watched for any hints regarding future monetary policy. Her comments can move the Euro (EUR) as investors try to anticipate the ECB’s next moves on interest rates and quantitative easing. 10. China’s Industrial Production (YoY) & Retail Sales (YoY) (Monday, September 15, 2025) Date: 09/15/2025 at 02:00:00 Importance: These two indicators provide a snapshot of the health of the world’s second-largest economy. Industrial production measures the output of the industrial sector, while retail sales gauge consumer demand. A strong performance in these areas can boost global economic sentiment and positively impact markets, especially commodity-linked currencies.    The subject matter and the content of this article are solely the views of the author. FinanceFeeds does not bear any legal responsibility for the content of this article and they do not reflect the viewpoint of FinanceFeeds or its editorial staff. The information does not constitute advice or a recommendation on any course of action and does not take into account your personal circumstances, financial situation, or individual needs. We strongly recommend you seek independent professional advice or conduct your own independent research before acting upon any information contained in this article.

Given the strength of the resistance level 4750.00 and the widespread bearish sentiment seen across the cryptocurrency markets today, Ethereum cryptocurrency can be expected to fall to the next support level 4250.00 (which stopped the previous waves A, (4) and 2).   Ethereum reversed from resistance zone Likely to fall to support level 4250.00 Ethereum cryptocurrency earlier reversed down from the resistance zone between the pivotal resistance level 4750.00 (which has been reversing the price from the start of August, as can be seen from the daily Ethereum chart below) and the upper daily Bollinger Band. The downward reversal from this resistance zone created the daily Japanese candlesticks reversal pattern Shooting Star, which stopped the earlier minor impulse wave 3 of the intermediate impulse wave (5) from the start of September. Given the strength of the resistance level 4750.00 and the widespread bearish sentiment seen across the cryptocurrency markets today, Ethereum cryptocurrency can be expected to fall to the next support level 4250.00 (which stopped the previous waves A, (4) and 2). Ethereum Technical Analysis The subject matter and the content of this article are solely the views of the author. FinanceFeeds does not bear any legal responsibility for the content of this article and they do not reflect the viewpoint of FinanceFeeds or its editorial staff. The information does not constitute advice or a recommendation on any course of action and does not take into account your personal circumstances, financial situation, or individual needs. We strongly recommend you seek independent professional advice or conduct your own independent research before acting upon any information contained in this article.

What U.S. Authorities Allege U.S. prosecutors have charged Jian Wu, a former quantitative researcher at Two Sigma Investments, with wire fraud, securities fraud, and money laundering. Authorities allege Wu manipulated the hedge fund’s algorithmic models to generate a $23.5 million payday for himself, while causing more than $165 million in client losses. The indictment, unsealed Thursday in Manhattan federal court, portrays Wu as exploiting his technical expertise to circumvent safeguards built into Two Sigma’s investment processes. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has filed related civil charges. Wu, a 34-year-old Chinese citizen who lived in New York, is considered a fugitive. Two Sigma, which manages over $60 billion, declined to comment. Investor Takeaway The indictment underscores the vulnerabilities of quant-driven hedge funds, where model integrity is critical. For investors, it highlights the risks of insider manipulation even in highly regulated firms. How the Alleged Scheme Worked Authorities said Wu developed or co-developed 14 investment models that were supposed to generate unique signals complementing Two Sigma’s existing strategies. Instead, he engineered them to appear distinct while duplicating other models’ predictions. As a result, Two Sigma unknowingly increased exposure to overlapping trades, deviating from intended strategies. Wu’s models gained traction internally, leading the firm to use them more frequently. This manipulation allegedly helped boost his compensation: prosecutors said Wu received $23.5 million in 2022, including multimillion-dollar bonuses, and purchased a luxury Manhattan apartment. The SEC noted Two Sigma canceled $8 million in performance grants, but Wu retained nearly $18 million in cash bonuses. By 2023, employees detected unusual correlations between Wu’s models and others. As Two Sigma investigated, Wu allegedly made further unauthorized changes to conceal his activity, compounding the misconduct. Two Sigma’s Response and Fallout Two Sigma fired Wu in 2024 after six years with the firm and repaid clients for their losses. The firm’s systems rely on advanced quantitative models to guide investment decisions, making the alleged breach of trust particularly damaging. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said, “Wu’s employer trusted him to act with integrity. Instead, Wu used his technical abilities to cheat his employer out of millions.” Authorities said the scheme highlighted the difficulty of ensuring that highly technical employees follow compliance protocols. The case also raises questions about oversight in data-driven finance, where model opacity can mask misconduct until correlations emerge. Investor Takeaway Quant firms may face higher compliance costs and stricter monitoring requirements as regulators look to prevent similar abuses of algorithmic trading systems. What’s Next in the Case Wu remains at large, with U.S. prosecutors pursuing him under criminal case U.S. v. Wu, docket number 25-cr-00413, in the Southern District of New York. The SEC’s civil case runs parallel under docket number 25-07573. If convicted, Wu faces decades in prison and forfeiture of illicit gains. The indictment adds to a growing list of enforcement actions targeting misconduct in the hedge fund and fintech sectors. For regulators, the case is a warning shot that even sophisticated firms with billions under management are not immune to insider abuse. For investors, it highlights why due diligence on fund governance and controls is as important as performance.

When it comes to managing digital assets, MetaMask is one of the reputable wallets for using cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and decentralized applications. It provides a seamless way for people to send, receive, and save tokens within the Web3 ecosystem. However, despite the convenience it offers, MetaMask is still a hot wallet (connected to the internet). Therefore, it is more prone to risks like malware, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access. If a hacker has access to your device, your funds could be lost. Hence, using hardware wallets with MetaMask provides an additional layer of security. After reading this guide, you’ll learn how to use MetaMask with a hardware wallet.  Key Takeaways A hardware wallet stores your private keys offline, making it impossible for hackers to steal them. MetaMask on its own is more exposed to online risks because it’s a hot wallet. Combining a hardware wallet with MetaMask gives you accessibility and stronger protection.  After connecting the hardware wallet with MetaMask, all transactions must be approved on the hardware device to secure your funds.  Physical confirmation adds an extra security layer because no transaction can be completed without approval on the hardware device.  What is a Hardware Wallet? This tool refers to a physical device where you can store your cryptocurrency’s private keys secure offline. Hardware wallets are isolated from online environments, making them less susceptible to hacking attempts and phishing scams. These devices are trusted in the crypto space because of their strong protection without inconvenience. Hardware wallets come with PIN codes and a recovery seed phrase. This protection makes it challenging for anyone to access it without your permission. Hardware wallets aren’t just an option for those managing huge crypto funds; they are a vital safeguard. Benefits of combining MetaMask with a Hardware Wallet MetaMask is a reliable tool for navigating Web3. However, because it’s a hot wallet, it’s constantly exposed to the internet. By combining it with a hardware wallet, you’ll get stronger protection. Here are some reasons why this combination works fine.  1. Stronger security for your private keys MetaMask saves your private keys inside your mobile device or browser. While this is convenient, your keys can be exposed if your laptop or computer is infected with spyware, keyloggers, or malware. By integrating it with a hardware wallet, your private keys are stored offline. The keys won’t leave your device, and MetaMask cannot see them. If your phone or laptop is hacked, your funds are safe because the hacker cannot access the keys. 2. Physical confirmation for each transaction When using MetaMask, you need to approve every transaction by clicking “Confirm” on your screen. This process can be replicated by fake websites or malicious pop-ups to have access to your funds. However, when you connect MetaMask to a reliable hardware wallet, each transaction request is sent to your device. Therefore, you must physically push a button or tap your device screen to confirm.  If this action isn’t performed, no transaction will be successful. This additional step introduces a powerful safeguard because hackers cannot physically press the button for you.  3. Safer usage of DeFi and NFT platforms Many decentralized finance (DeFi) and NFT platforms require users to sign multiple approvals. Common instances include minting an NFT or approving a token swap. If you’re using MetaMask alone, you can easily make a mistake that might be harmful. However, with a connected hardware wallet, you must review and approve every step on your device. This feature helps you double-check and slow down to prevent rushed approvals that could cost you your assets.  4. Fortified protection against phishing attacks The crypto space is often threatened by phishing attacks. For instance, a fraudulent website might be designed to look like a trusted NFT or DeFi platform. Many unsuspecting individuals could be tricked into using the platform and signing away access to their funds. If you’re using MetaMask alone, one wrong click can empty your wallet.  In contrast, with a hardware wallet, there’s still a second chance even if you make one wrong click. When you’re on a phishing website, your device will display the real transaction details. This information gives you another opportunity to notice that something is off.  5. Sense of security for long-term holders If you have a significant amount of valuable NFTs or cryptocurrency that will be untouched for a long time, using MetaMask alone can feel risky. By connecting a hardware wallet to MetaMask, you don’t have to worry much about your funds’ security. The hardware wallet ensures your private keys don’t leave your device. If someone gains access to your MetaMask account, they cannot transfer your funds without the hardware wallet.    How to connect a Hardware Wallet with MetaMask Linking a hardware wallet to MetaMask is a seamless process that works almost the same way across most devices. The connection is to make MetaMask the interface while your private keys are stored safely in the hardware wallet. Here’s a step-by-step process. 1. Set up your hardware wallet Before connecting, create your pin and write down your recovery phrase. Also, update the device to the most recent version. Then, unlock it and leave it connected to your mobile device or computer.  2. Launch MetaMask Open MetaMask and log in to your wallet through the mobile app or browser extension. Navigate to the menu where your accounts are managed. Then, click on the option to connect a hardware wallet.  3. Approve the connection MetaMask will prompt you to approve a connection with your hardware wallet. You can approve it directly on the hardware wallet once you see a confirmation request.  Conclusion: The Smarter way to use MetaMask MetaMask makes it less challenging for people to explore the Web3 and crypto world. However, relying on it alone leaves your assets open to online risks. By connecting MetaMask with a hardware wallet, your private keys are offline, and you can enjoy the flexibility of decentralized apps. Every transaction requires a direct confirmation on the hardware device, infusing a strong layer of protection against hackers. If you want solid security and convenience, pairing MetaMask with a hardware wallet is an ideal choice to make. 

Pakistan made a significant move in its digital asset journey by officially encouraging international cryptocurrency companies to get licenses to do business in the country. The Virtual Assets Ordinance created the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) in July 2025.  It is the country’s first regulatory organisation just for virtual assets and blockchain services. This project is a big step toward more organised monitoring and regulation in Pakistan’s fast-growing crypto economy. Invitation to International Crypto Companies That Follow the Rules The finance ministry has told global virtual asset service providers (VASPs) who are currently regulated in significant places like the US, the EU, or Singapore to apply for licenses. This selected method makes sure that only well-known, compliant, and trustworthy corporations do business in Pakistan.  The new rules say that no crypto company can function without a license from the local government. Licensed companies must also have enough capital, strong cybersecurity measures, and strict compliance systems. One-of-a-kind Sharia Compliance Requirement Pakistan’s crypto licensing system is different because it requires all services to follow Sharia standards. This makes sure that global cryptocurrency activities are in line with local cultural and religious values. A special group of Islamic finance experts will be in charge of this part, making sure that all approved crypto services follow Islamic finance rules. This rule puts Pakistan at the forefront of combining modern digital finance with religious moral codes. Licensing Conditions and Business Transparency People who want to get licenses must show proof of international regulatory clearances, the nature of their business, their technological infrastructure, their security processes, and their history of following the rules. They also need to have clear business plans that explain how they will ethically serve Pakistani users while helping the country modernise its economy. Bilal bin Saqib, PVARA’s chairman and Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain, underlined the intention behind the initiative: “We welcome the world’s leading VASPs to join us in building a transparent and inclusive digital future.” This shows that Pakistan wants to be a major player in the global digital asset economy. Pakistan’s Growing Crypto Ecosystem  There are already more than 40 million active crypto users in Pakistan, and the country trades more than $300 billion worth of crypto every year. Policymakers are not just interested in making rules, but also in encouraging new ideas. The creation of a national crypto council, which includes well-known people like Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, co-founder of Binance, shows that the government is serious about growing its blockchain and crypto businesses. People are still talking about increasing the amount of Bitcoin mining that can be done and maybe even setting up a strategic Bitcoin reserve that the government would control.