How the UK Plans to Recover 42 Bitcoin From a High-Profile Crypto Scammer British authorities said Monday they are seeking to recover 42 bitcoin and other crypto assets tied to Joseph James O’Connor, the British hacker who stole millions through a sweeping SIM-swapping scheme that infiltrated the social media accounts of celebrities, tech leaders, and Fortune 500 companies. O’Connor, now 26, pleaded guilty in the United States in 2023 after admitting he and his co-conspirators compromised more than 130 X (formerly Twitter) accounts, as well as accounts on TikTok and Snapchat. The group used these hijacked profiles to push fraudulent crypto schemes, tricking users into sending bitcoin to attacker-controlled wallets. In some cases, they sold access to these accounts for additional profit. The victims included some of the most recognizable names in technology and entertainment: Apple, Uber, Kanye West, Bill Gates, and others. U.S. prosecutors said O’Connor also gained control of “one of the most highly visible TikTok accounts” and later targeted another public figure in a similar attack. At the time of his sentencing in 2023, authorities seized crypto valued at roughly 794,000 dollars. Today, that same stash — particularly the 42 BTC involved — is worth more than five million dollars. UK authorities said the assets will be liquidated by a court-appointed trustee. Investor Takeaway Growing cross-border cooperation means stolen BTC is increasingly recoverable. As more hacks end in asset forfeiture, on-chain traceability continues to erode the value proposition of crypto crime. Inside the SIM-Swapping Scheme That Hit Tech Giants and Celebrities The campaign carried out by O’Connor and his group was among the most visible SIM-swap operations ever documented. By hijacking phone numbers and intercepting SMS-based authentication codes, the attackers gained entry to high-profile accounts and used them to promote fraudulent bitcoin giveaways and social engineering campaigns. U.S. prosecutors described the operation as a coordinated effort to “steal a large amount of cryptocurrency” while also exploiting the visibility of celebrity accounts to reach millions of unsuspecting followers. Key elements of the scheme included: Hijacking phone numbers through SIM swaps. Attackers convinced telecom employees to port victims’ numbers to attacker-controlled devices. Taking over high-profile X accounts. More than 130 accounts were compromised, including corporate and celebrity profiles. Pushing fake crypto giveaways and stealing user funds. Victims sent BTC to scam addresses under the belief they would receive double the amount. Selling access to compromised accounts. Some buyers paid for short-term control of celebrity profiles, further exposing users to scams. Adrian Foster, chief crown prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service, said O’Connor “targeted well-known individuals and used their accounts to scam people out of their crypto assets and money.” The scheme resulted in millions in losses and contributed to the rise of SIM-swapping as a dominant attack vector in crypto theft between 2020 and 2023. Why Authorities Are Pursuing the Bitcoin Years After the Crime O’Connor’s sentencing in the U.S. included a five-year prison term and forfeiture requirements, but the international recovery process has continued to move through courts. British authorities confirmed Monday they are now coordinating with U.S. agencies to liquidate the 42 BTC and additional seized crypto. The delay is typical. Asset recovery involving cross-border hacking cases often requires: Tracing funds across global exchanges. Many stolen coins moved through mixers and foreign OTC desks after the initial theft. Cooperation between U.S. and UK agencies. Multiple jurisdictions must sign off before seized assets can be sold or returned. Victim compensation decisions. Courts must determine how forfeited crypto is distributed among impacted victims. Because bitcoin's price has risen sharply since O’Connor stole it, the amount recovered today significantly exceeds the value at the time of seizure. This dynamic has become increasingly common in crypto crime cases, creating windfalls for victims once assets are forfeited. Investor Takeaway Rising BTC prices mean stolen coins recovered years later can be worth multiples of their original value. That trend strengthens law-enforcement incentives to aggressively track and seize old hack proceeds. What the Case Signals for Crypto Crime Enforcement O’Connor faced up to 20 years in prison and was also charged with stalking in separate incidents. The alleged mastermind behind the group, Florida teenager Graham Ivan Clark, received a three-year juvenile detention sentence in 2021. The case underscores several trends reshaping crypto security and law enforcement: SIM swapping remains one of the most damaging attack vectors. High-profile platforms remain vulnerable when SMS authentication is involved. Crypto scams amplified by celebrity accounts spread rapidly. Attackers use trusted voices to deceive large audiences in seconds. International asset recovery is improving. Agencies are now more coordinated in tracking, freezing, and liquidating stolen crypto. For crypto investors and market participants, the broader takeaway is that the enforcement environment is tightening. As authorities gain more on-chain expertise, fewer stolen assets remain beyond reach — and long-running cases like O’Connor’s demonstrate how difficult it is for attackers to outrun blockchain forensics.  

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CoinMarketCap, the world’s leading cryptocurrency data platform, has unveiled the CoinMarketCap 20 DTF (CMC20), the first DeFi-native tradable crypto index token built on BNB Chain. Developed in collaboration with Reserve — a platform enabling onchain Decentralized Token Folios (DTFs) — CMC20 allows investors to access diversified exposure to the top 20 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization through a single, tradable token. Deployed by Lista DAO, CMC20 represents a major milestone for decentralized finance. It merges DeFi transparency with institutional-grade index methodology, offering investors both accessibility and sophistication. The token supports permissionless minting and redemption, and is tradable across decentralized exchanges (DEXs), centralized exchanges (CEXs), and wallets — with integrations for futures tracking and algorithmic trading strategies already underway. “The crypto market has over 27 million tokens and thousands launching daily. Investors need what traditional markets have had for decades — a clear, investable benchmark,” said Rush Luton, CEO of CoinMarketCap. “CMC20 serves as crypto’s S&P 500 — offering diversified exposure to the largest, most liquid assets through transparent, permissionless infrastructure.” Takeaway CMC20 establishes a new category of onchain index investing — combining institutional reliability with the transparency, composability, and accessibility of DeFi infrastructure. DeFi Infrastructure Meets Index Investing Unlike reference-only indexes, CMC20 is fully tradable and composable, enabling direct use within DeFi protocols and trading platforms. The index is rebalanced monthly to maintain exposure to the top 20 cryptocurrencies while excluding stablecoins, wrapped tokens, and assets with limited liquidity. The methodology ensures representation across Layer-1 blockchains, DeFi projects, exchange tokens, and infrastructure assets, reflecting the true breadth of the crypto economy beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum dominance. Through Reserve’s decentralized architecture, investors can mint CMC20 by depositing the underlying basket of assets, or redeem the token for its constituent holdings at any time, ensuring onchain transparency and accurate tracking of net asset value. This collateral-backed structure minimizes tracking error and provides real-time proof of reserves. “CMC20 showcases what is unlocked by crypto and DeFi infrastructure,” said Thomas Mattimore, CEO of ABC Labs and Core Contributor at Reserve. “For the first time, anyone can get exposure to a market-cap weighted index of the top 20 crypto assets. This is the blueprint for next-generation financial products.” Takeaway By tokenizing diversified exposure, CMC20 transforms passive crypto investing into an active, composable DeFi primitive — bridging retail and institutional use cases. Expanding Accessibility Across BNB Chain and Beyond CMC20 is launching with full ecosystem support on BNB Chain, one of the most active blockchain networks for decentralized trading. The token is immediately available on PancakeSwap and can be minted directly through the Reserve dApp. Future integrations will include lending, staking, and yield-generation products using CMC20 as collateral. For institutional investors, the product unlocks new opportunities to incorporate diversified crypto exposure into structured products, delta-neutral strategies, and liquidity management tools. Retail traders, meanwhile, gain a simplified entry point into a professionally structured portfolio — with lower transaction costs and instant diversification. CoinMarketCap is also working with centralized exchanges and fintech partners to expand the token’s availability globally. The team envisions a cross-market ecosystem where CMC20 functions as both an investable index and a composable DeFi building block. Institutional inquiries and partnership requests can be directed to: institutional@coinmarketcap.com. Full methodology and real-time data are available at coinmarketcap.com/charts/cmc20. Takeaway CMC20 positions CoinMarketCap at the forefront of tokenized index innovation, uniting transparent onchain architecture with global distribution across both DeFi and traditional finance.

Dogecoin has entered a muted phase. The asset still holds a strong cultural footprint, yet recent market data shows weakening inflows, larger outflows from long-term holders and declining speculative activity. After a brief uptick earlier in the quarter, DOGE fell back toward the $0.16 range, with research desks noting that whale movement — particularly a $700M cluster transfer — coincided with shrinking liquidity depth. The market reaction reflects a broader hesitation: DOGE’s performance continues to rely heavily on sentiment rather than measurable growth metrics. At the same time, analysts monitoring capital rotation trends have observed rising interest in staking-focused ecosystems, especially those preparing to operate within the XRP Ledger’s expanding infrastructure. This shift does not imply an abandonment of meme market enthusiasm, but it illustrates how investor priorities can change when volatility becomes less predictable and utility begins to influence allocation decisions. Dogecoin’s Narrative Cools as Liquidity Conditions Tighten Recent market data indicates that Dogecoin has struggled to build momentum after slipping back toward the $0.16 region. Trading volumes have thinned, liquidity depth has weakened and large holder movements have added pressure to an already fragile structure. Without new catalysts or development milestones, the asset’s order flow has remained uneven, leaving price action driven largely by short-term sentiment rather than sustained demand. Analysts point out that DOGE’s long-standing value proposition — community cohesion and cultural recognition — remains intact, although it has not translated into new development cycles, staking functionality or expanded utility. This has pushed research desks to question how much further DOGE can advance without a clear structural upgrade. Crypto Legends echoed this sentiment in a recent analysis, noting that meme-driven tokens can still produce sharp movements but increasingly compete with ecosystems offering defined revenue mechanics, audited architectures and predictable token flows. Shifting Market Conditions Push Investors Toward Yield-Based Platforms The decline in DOGE news volume has coincided with rising attention on yield platforms. Research desks monitoring allocation trends describe a growing preference for predictable systems over narrative-only market drivers. This shift is particularly visible in investor behavior during low-volatility periods, when staking models provide a structural advantage by generating rewards independent of price action. For XRP Tundra, this environment has created a tailwind. The platform’s token design, liquidity architecture and presale performance have emerged as talking points among analysts seeking alternatives to sentiment-driven assets. Capital that might previously have rotated into DOGE during speculative phases is now exploring ecosystems with clearer mechanics. In markets where risk tolerance narrows, investors increasingly examine how reward systems, liquidity protection and transparent documentation influence long-term participation. Tundra’s Multi-Path Staking Design Introduces a New Layer of Utility XRP Tundra stands out in this rotation not simply because it operates adjacent to XRP, but because it offers a multi-path staking economy built around measurable commitments. The incoming Cryo Vault framework includes a liquid format designed for users who prioritize immediate access and yield in the 4%–6% range, a structured commitment path spanning around thirty days with returns in the 8%–12% band, and an extended horizon lasting about ninety days for long-term participants seeking yields between 15% and 20%.  Minimum entry thresholds range from 100 to 1,000 TUNDRA-S depending on the format, while withdrawal rules vary according to the chosen commitment window. Analysts reviewing the model highlight that these differentiated approaches allow them to map potential demand across short-, mid- and long-term staking profiles once vaults become operational. The presale structure adds another layer of comparability. Phase 12 prices TUNDRA-S at $0.214 with an 8% token bonus, while TUNDRA-X is issued at a $0.107 reference value at no additional cost. Both tokens carry confirmed listing prices — $2.5 for TUNDRA-S and $1.25 for TUNDRA-X — providing measurable benchmarks instead of speculative projections. With more than $3.5M raised, the presale continues to attract participants preparing for Cryo Vault activation and the broader XRPL staking cycle. Documentation, Verification and the Growing Preference for Measurable Progress As investors compare DOGE’s fading momentum with the rising traction behind staking platforms, documentation has become a decisive factor. Many participants searching is XRP Tundra legit examine the project’s verification trail, which includes independent reviews from Cyberscope, Solidproof and FreshCoins. The team’s full identity verification through Vital Block’s KYC certification further reinforces structural transparency. Dogecoin’s cooling narrative does not diminish its legacy influence, but it highlights a clear divide: speculation alone is no longer the primary driver of investor behavior. As staking platforms supported by transparent mechanics gain traction, XRP Tundra has emerged as a developing ecosystem aligned with the broader move toward measurable fundamentals. Secure your Phase 12 allocation and follow verified updates as the XRPL staking landscape develops. Buy Tundra Now: official XRP Tundra website How To Buy Tundra: step-by-step buying guide Security and Trust: FreshCoins audit Join The Community: Telegram

As fintech innovation reshapes Africa’s financial landscape, Exness strengthens its investment in the region, combining global expertise with local talent to serve a new generation of traders. Exness, one of the world’s largest multi-asset brokers, has officially opened its new office in Cape Town, marking a major milestone in its long-term commitment to traders and partners in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). As fintech innovation continues to accelerate across the region, South Africa has emerged as a natural hub for financial technology and digital inclusion. With one of the most advanced financial systems in Africa and a thriving ecosystem of start-ups and talent, Cape Town offers a unique blend of innovation and opportunity, making it the ideal regional hub for Exness. The new state-of-the-art office serves as the center of Exness’ operations in South Africa and across the SSA region. It will house local professionals providing local expertise and insights, ensuring that clients across the region benefit from local insight and global-standard service. Petr Valov, Exness co-founder and CEO, expressed, “The opening of our Cape Town office marks a new chapter for Exness, one that involves innovation and regional growth. We see immense potential in SSA and our investment here reflects our confidence in the region’s growth and in the incredible talent driving it.” The office’s inauguration brought together Exness executives, local partners, and media representatives to celebrate this significant milestone. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, speeches from the company’s senior management, and a reception with the regional team, underscoring Exness’ deepening roots in the region. The celebration continued with the Creators (EX)perience held at Killarney International Raceway’s Joubert Pits,  where Exness hosted an adrenaline-charged event that embodied the brand’s values of precision and prestige. The day featured a supercar showcase and F1-style pit stop challenges, bringing the energy of motorsport to life. Guests also participated in a high-intensity racing simulator competition, where their reflexes were put to the test in a virtual tournament. Paul Margarites, Exness Regional Commercial Director, commented, “By building a strong local presence, we are bringing our global expertise closer to our traders. This office is more than a space; it’s a reflection of our long-term commitment to traders in the region.” By combining cutting-edge trading infrastructure with local expertise, Exness is empowering traders with access, confidence, and better-than-market conditions. Exness’ growing Sub-Saharan Africa operations are supported by its Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) license in South Africa and its Capital Markets Authority (CMA) license in Kenya, reinforcing the company’s commitment to responsible, transparent, and regulated operations across the continent.

What Triggered Bitcoin’s Slide Below $90,000? Bitcoin extended its steep selloff on Tuesday, plunging to 89,420 dollars during Hong Kong trading hours and wiping out the entirety of its 2025 gains. The move marks Bitcoin’s lowest level since February and comes just six weeks after the asset printed an all-time high above 126,000 dollars. The decline accelerated after BTC failed to reclaim the 93,700-dollar support zone over the weekend. That breakdown pushed the price below its 200-day moving average and triggered a “death cross” between the 50-day and 200-day trendlines — a signal that historically aligns with multi-week weakness when liquidity thins out. That is precisely what traders are seeing now. Spot ETF inflows, which absorbed more than 25 billion dollars earlier in the year, have stalled for nearly two weeks. Concerns around the Trump administration’s tariff agenda and the possibility of stickier inflation have led markets to reassess the odds of further Federal Reserve rate cuts. Corporate treasury buyers who aggressively accumulated Bitcoin during the first half of the year have paused their purchases. Retail sentiment has collapsed as well: the Crypto Fear & Greed Index fell to 11 on Monday, its lowest reading since the 2022 bear market. Social data shows traders shifting attention away from altcoins and back toward Bitcoin dominance, a pattern that often appears during capitulation phases or late-stage drawdowns. Investor Takeaway Sentiment has reached “extreme fear,” a level that sometimes precedes short-term relief rallies. But reclaiming major support levels remains the critical test for buyers. Why Market Liquidity Is Breaking Down The selloff is being amplified by macro uncertainty and thinning liquidity across risk assets. Traders are increasingly concerned that the Federal Reserve may delay further rate cuts, while the broader equity rally appears to be losing steam. Risk-off behavior has spread across crypto: Stablecoins are seeing more inflow than Bitcoin. Some investors are rotating into USDT and other dollar-pegged assets rather than buying BTC dips. ETF flows have turned negative. U.S. spot bitcoin ETFs have posted more than 3 billion dollars in net outflows over the past three weeks. Liquidity across major exchanges is thinning. Market depth worsened following the U.S. government shutdown, which elevated the Treasury General Account and constrained dollar circulation. Analysts warn that if Bitcoin cannot reclaim the 93,000-dollar zone soon, the next liquidity pocket sits between 86,000 and 88,000 dollars — an area that could attract volatility if pressure continues. Broad crypto losses reflect the same trend. Ether has dropped nearly 40% from its August peak above 4,955 dollars. Solana, Cosmos-linked assets, and other major altcoins have also posted steep declines. How Institutional and Corporate Flows Are Shifting Institutional behavior has added to the downside momentum. According to market participants, some listed companies and funds that piled into Bitcoin during the rally have begun trimming exposure. That selling has contributed to contagion across correlated equities, including mining stocks and accumulation firms such as Strategy (MSTR), Riot Platforms, Mara Holdings, and exchange operator Coinbase. Corporate buyers, who helped push BTC above six figures earlier in the year, have temporarily paused accumulation. Retail investors remain cautious after October’s flash crash triggered 19 billion dollars in leveraged-liquidation cascades. Meanwhile, macro traders continue to monitor the December Federal Reserve meeting. The latest readings show a 57.1% chance that the Fed will not cut rates next month, according to the CME FedWatch Tool. Weak U.S. unemployment data on Thursday could shift expectations again, but for now, the market is preparing for tighter financial conditions. Investor Takeaway Macro signals matter more than technical patterns right now. ETF flows, rate expectations, and liquidity shifts are driving price action more than on-chain trends. Key Levels, Market Risks, and What Comes Next Below are several critical levels and catalysts that will define near-term direction: Support at 85,000–87,000 dollars. A decisive break below this range could open the path to 80,000 and potentially 74,000 dollars, last seen in February. Resistance at 90,000 dollars. Regaining this level would help restore confidence after sentiment hit extreme fear levels. The Federal Reserve’s December interest rate decision. A more dovish stance could ease selling pressure across crypto and revive ETF inflows. Year-end tax-loss harvesting. This could add short-term selling pressure as investors lock in losses or rebalance portfolios. Despite the ongoing stress, some analysts argue that the magnitude of the sentiment shock could support a short-term bounce if macro conditions stabilize. Others caution that traders should expect continued volatility into year-end, especially if geopolitical headlines or ETF redemption cycles intensify. Overall, Bitcoin’s fall below 90,000 dollars signals more than a technical breakdown — it reflects a broad retreat from risk as liquidity tightens across global markets. Whether the move becomes a deeper correction or a temporary reset will depend heavily on ETF flows, economic data, and upcoming central bank decisions.

The next bull cycle is drawing closer, and investors are recalibrating their portfolios to include only the best cryptos to buy now. Ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), and Mutuum Finance (MUTM) stand out as top cryptocurrencies showing sustained growth, technological advancement, and investor traction.  Ethereum is reinforcing its decentralized framework, Dogecoin is signaling a potential mega rally, and Mutuum Finance is nearing a presale milestone with rising investor momentum. Together, these assets reflect the strategic blend of legacy strength, community-driven expansion, and DeFi innovation that defines what is the best cryptocurrency to invest in before market momentum resumes. Ethereum’s Decentralization Push Driving Renewed Confidence Ethereum has been maintaining its dominance as the leading smart contract network while strengthening its commitment to decentralization. Recent discussions from the Ethereum Foundation and co-founder Vitalik Buterin’s “Trustless Manifesto” have reignited market attention.  The statement emphasizes that Ethereum’s long-term success depends on sustaining trustless and permissionless design even as institutional adoption expands. This renewed emphasis has reinforced confidence among developers and investors alike, resulting in a 2% price gain over 24 hours to around $3,543. On-chain activity has also reached yearly highs, with transactions and active wallet counts climbing steadily. More ETH is being transferred off exchanges, reflecting accumulation patterns by long-term holders.  These metrics highlight Ethereum as a top crypto to buy now, especially as its price continues to trade above the 200-day Simple Moving Average near $3,450, which serves as a strong support line. The combination of solid technical support and developer activity signals that ETH remains one of the best cryptocurrencies to invest in before the next market expansion. Dogecoin Targets Massive Gains After Pattern Breakout Dogecoin has reentered the spotlight following technical patterns that mirror its previous explosive cycles. The token, trading near $0.17, has reportedly broken out of a multi-year descending triangle, a setup historically followed by significant price expansions. Analysts project a potential rise toward $2 to $5, suggesting gains between 1,000% and 2,800%. While ambitious, the pattern aligns with prior Dogecoin rallies, including the jump from $0.0025 to $0.75 in 2021. Recent reports also indicate institutional interest, with Bitwise filing for a Dogecoin exchange-traded fund (ETF). If approved, it would allow regulated exposure for institutional investors, broadening liquidity and market participation. As such developments unfold, Dogecoin continues to rank among the best cryptos to buy now, combining retail enthusiasm with growing institutional curiosity.  Although short-term indicators remain moderate, historical cycles suggest that accumulation at current levels could precede a significant upswing once overall crypto sentiment improves. Mutuum Finance (MUTM) Accelerates Toward Testnet Launch Mutuum Finance (MUTM) has been registering rapid progress as its presale advances toward completion. Currently, Phase 6 is 90% filled, marking the final opportunity for investors to purchase tokens at $0.035 before the price rises nearly 20% to $0.04 in Phase 7. The presale has already raised $18,750,000, with 18,050 holders since inception, confirming strong demand and growing investor participation.  The current price reflects a 250% gain from Phase 1’s $0.01 level, positioning MUTM among the best crypto coins to buy before its launch price of $0.06. Early participants stand to realize up to 400% ROI once trading opens, underscoring the urgency surrounding the near sell-out. Mutuum Finance is not relying on hype; it is steadily delivering on development goals. The team has confirmed that the V1 protocol will launch on the Sepolia testnet in Q4 2025, including liquidity pools, mtToken issuance, and liquidation tools powered by ETH and USDT. This progress transforms Mutuum Finance from a presale concept into a functional DeFi product, increasing investor trust. To maintain community engagement, Mutuum Finance has launched a real-time leaderboard that ranks the top 50 presale contributors. Every 24 hours, the #1 participant receives a $500 MUTM bonus, provided a transaction occurs within that window, and the board resets daily at 00:00 UTC. The team has also initiated a $100,000 giveaway, split among 10 winners receiving $10,000 each, further energizing new participants. MUTM’s structured presale model ensures transparency, encouraging consistent participation rather than short-term speculation. Its dual lending framework, Peer-to-Contract (P2C) and Peer-to-Peer (P2P), positions it uniquely within the DeFi sector. P2C pools generate steady yields through shared liquidity, while P2P lending allows direct borrower-lender agreements for tokens lacking deep liquidity.  This system appeals to both conservative and high-yield investors seeking diversified exposure. Coupled with a completed CertiK audit scoring 90/100 and a $50,000 bug-bounty program, Mutuum Finance exemplifies the best crypto to invest in for 2025 among DeFi-focused projects. Momentum Builds Before the Next Bull Market Ethereum continues consolidating its foundation, Dogecoin is preparing for another historical pattern replay, and Mutuum Finance is fast approaching a critical presale milestone. Each asset reflects a different layer of opportunity, from blockchain utility to community speculation and structured DeFi innovation.  As the next bull cycle nears, these three stand as strategic options for investors deciding which crypto to buy today for long-term growth. Those entering Mutuum Finance’s Phase 6 before it sells out could secure a rare advantage before prices reset higher. For more information about Mutuum Finance (MUTM) visit the links below: Website: https://mutuum.com/  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/mutuumfinance

VanEck, one of the world’s most established asset managers and a pioneer in digital asset investment products, has officially launched the VanEck Solana ETF (VSOL). The new exchange-traded fund offers direct exposure to SOL, the native token of the Solana blockchain, while enabling investors to benefit from staking rewards earned through network participation. In a move designed to attract early adopters, VanEck announced that VSOL sponsor fees will be fully waived for the first $1 billion in assets under management (AUM) or until February 17, 2026 — whichever comes first. After this promotional period, a 0.30% annual sponsor fee will apply. The ETF’s third-party staking service provider has also agreed to waive its fees during this initial period. “Solana has quickly emerged as a leading proof-of-stake network, offering speed, scalability, and efficiency that continue to attract developers and real-world use cases,” said Kyle DaCruz, Director of Digital Assets Product at VanEck. “We’re excited to be launching VSOL and to build on VanEck’s long history of expanding access to digital assets through thoughtful, investor-focused products.” Takeaway VanEck’s VSOL gives investors a cost-free, institutional-grade path to Solana exposure — including staking yields — through a regulated ETF structure on launch. Bringing Solana’s Network Efficiency to Mainstream Portfolios Solana’s high-performance architecture has positioned it as one of the fastest-growing Layer-1 blockchains in the world, capable of processing tens of millions of transactions per day across DeFi, gaming, NFTs, and tokenized real-world assets. The network’s hybrid Proof of History (PoH) and Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus mechanisms enable fast block times, minimal fees, and scalable infrastructure. VSOL offers investors a way to participate in this network’s growth through a traditional ETF framework — without the complexities of crypto custody or wallet management. Staking rewards generated through the ETF’s participation in Solana’s validator network will be reflected in fund performance, subject to regulatory and operational guidelines. VanEck’s launch of VSOL follows its earlier success with the VanEck Bitcoin ETF (HODL) and VanEck Ethereum ETF (ETHV), both introduced in 2024. With VSOL, the firm continues its strategy of bridging institutional investment infrastructure and the digital asset ecosystem, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted first mover in regulated crypto investing. Takeaway Solana’s network speed and low fees underpin its growing adoption — and VSOL now allows investors to capture that growth through a regulated, exchange-traded structure. VanEck Expands Its Digital Asset Leadership Globally, VanEck manages more than $5.2 billion in digital asset strategies, spanning spot ETFs, futures products, and onchain economy funds. In addition to VSOL, the firm’s lineup includes: HODL — VanEck Bitcoin ETF ETHV — VanEck Ethereum ETF DAPP — VanEck Digital Transformation ETF NODE — VanEck Onchain Economy ETF Founded in 1955, VanEck has a long history of identifying emerging asset classes ahead of the mainstream — from gold and emerging markets to exchange-traded funds and digital assets. As of October 31, 2025, VanEck managed approximately $171.7 billion in assets across mutual funds, ETFs, and institutional accounts. “We’re building a global suite of digital asset products designed for both institutional and retail investors,” DaCruz said. “From Bitcoin and Ethereum to Solana and the onchain economy, VanEck’s focus is on transparency, liquidity, and long-term access to innovation.” VSOL begins trading this week on U.S. exchanges, offering investors another way to diversify within the digital asset space through a familiar, regulated vehicle. Takeaway With VSOL, VanEck cements its leadership in regulated digital asset ETFs, offering investors zero-fee exposure to one of crypto’s fastest-growing networks.

Siebert Financial Corp. (NASDAQ: SIEB), a diversified financial services firm with over five decades of brokerage experience, has launched Siebert.Pro, a dedicated division and trading platform tailored for active, self-directed investors. The new platform reflects Siebert’s commitment to supporting experienced traders with powerful tools, responsive service, and flexible pricing models designed for high engagement. The platform’s launch follows a successful closed beta program involving a select group of self-directed investors whose feedback helped refine the product’s design and functionality. Built to combine speed, control, and expert support, Siebert.Pro offers customizable trading tools for equities and options, seamless multi-device access, and direct communication with market-seasoned relationship managers. “Active traders told us what they want: speed, control, and experts who pick up the phone and focus on the customer’s needs,” said Joseph Corso, Senior Managing Director at Siebert.Pro, who previously held leadership roles at Morgan Stanley and E*TRADE. “At Siebert.Pro, we believe in self-directed retail traders supported by experienced professionals. Nobody understands their portfolios better than they do — our role is to give them the tools and service to thrive.” Takeaway Siebert.Pro marks Siebert’s return to its brokerage roots — delivering a high-performance, zero-commission platform designed for serious, self-directed traders. Advanced Tools, Transparent Pricing, and Dedicated Relationships Siebert.Pro introduces a suite of trading features aimed at experienced retail investors who demand institutional-level control. The platform provides: Zero commissions on U.S. exchange-listed equities during regular market hours Competitive margin rates and options pricing with preferred terms for qualifying balances of $1 million and above Customizable interface for equity and options trading across desktop and mobile devices High-touch relationship management from Siebert’s dedicated team of trading experts Integrated risk management tools tailored to active investors’ unique needs “Our strategy is simple: invest in new customer verticals where we can add real value,” said David Gebbia, Principal at Siebert. “Sophisticated self-directed traders need advanced tools and responsive service from professionals who understand trading dynamics. Siebert.Pro delivers exactly that, positioning us to serve one of the industry’s fastest-growing client segments.” The division’s early outreach campaign is focused on inviting traders to migrate from legacy brokerage platforms and experience Siebert’s client-centric model firsthand. Takeaway Siebert.Pro’s launch reinforces Siebert’s customer-first ethos — zero commissions, advanced functionality, and human expertise in one streamlined platform. Siebert Extends Legacy of Innovation and Client Focus Under the leadership of John J. Gebbia, CEO of Siebert Financial, the firm continues to expand its digital ecosystem across diverse investor segments. “Siebert.Pro sits on flexible platforms, integrates seamlessly into our broader ecosystem, and reflects the same service culture our clients expect across the firm,” Gebbia said. “We’re building the next generation of Siebert with technology and human insight at its core.” Founded in 1967, Siebert has a distinguished history as a trailblazer in U.S. finance — beginning when Muriel Siebert became the first woman to own a seat on the NYSE. Today, the firm operates through subsidiaries that provide brokerage, advisory, insurance, securities lending, and media services, including Muriel Siebert & Co., Siebert AdvisorNXT, Park Wilshire Companies, RISE Financial Services, Siebert Technologies, StockCross Digital Solutions, and Gebbia Media. As the firm looks toward its 60th anniversary, the launch of Siebert.Pro signals its continued transformation — combining legacy trust with digital agility to serve modern investors. Takeaway Siebert’s new Pro platform strengthens its heritage of innovation — blending Wall Street experience with modern technology for the next generation of traders.

B2BinPay, the leading global crypto payment ecosystem for businesses, has obtained authorisation as a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) from El Salvador’s National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD). The approval, granted under reference CNAD-047-2025 / CNAD-CD-402-2025, reinforces B2BinPay’s position as one of the few crypto payment providers operating under multiple regulatory licences in the region. The new licence, issued in accordance with Articles 18–21 of El Salvador’s Digital Assets Issuance Law (LEAD), allows B2BinPay El Salvador, S.A. de C.V. to conduct a range of regulated digital-asset operations. These include asset transfers between individuals and businesses, the safekeeping of digital assets and access credentials, and fiat-to-crypto as well as crypto-to-crypto exchange transactions. “B2BinPay remains fully committed to transparency, compliance, and responsible innovation,” said Arthur Azizov, CEO of B2BinPay. “Securing this new CNAD licence is a natural continuation of our long-term strategy to strengthen client trust and reinforce our standing as a reliable, regulated platform. Our priority has always been to ensure that businesses using B2BinPay operate within frameworks that meet both global and local regulatory standards.” Takeaway B2BinPay’s CNAD authorisation establishes it as one of the few crypto payment providers with dual regulatory licences in El Salvador — a strategic win for compliance-focused expansion across Latin America. El Salvador’s Regulatory Momentum and B2BinPay’s Role The new CNAD authorisation marks B2BinPay’s second licence in El Salvador, following earlier approvals for Digital Exchange and Digital Wallet operations tied to Bitcoin services. Together, the two licences create a fully regulated foundation for digital-asset payments and custodial services in one of the world’s most progressive jurisdictions for crypto regulation. El Salvador has positioned itself at the forefront of digital-asset legislation through the LEAD framework, which clearly defines compliance standards for exchanges, custodians, and service providers. By offering regulatory clarity and government-backed supervision, the CNAD framework continues to attract institutional players and licensed fintechs aiming to establish compliant digital-asset operations in Latin America. For B2BinPay, the regulatory milestone enhances its ability to service LATAM’s rapidly growing digital payments market while maintaining full compliance with both local and international standards. The approval also complements the company’s existing licences across Europe, MENA, and Asia, providing a unified framework for global operations and cross-border crypto payments. Takeaway The CNAD licence reinforces El Salvador’s role as a global hub for digital-asset regulation and enables B2BinPay to offer fully compliant crypto payment solutions across emerging LATAM markets. Scaling a Global Regulated Crypto Payments Network Headquartered in Rome, Italy, B2BinPay operates as an all-in-one crypto ecosystem for businesses, enabling enterprises to integrate digital payments seamlessly. The platform supports over 350 cryptocurrencies across 10 major blockchains for USDT and USDC transactions, ensuring both flexibility and security for merchants worldwide. The company’s infrastructure combines advanced KYC (Know Your Customer) and KYT (Know Your Transaction) protocols to ensure compliance with evolving regulatory standards. To date, B2BinPay has served more than 980 merchants and processed over $5.1 billion in incoming transactions — underscoring its scale as one of the most trusted providers in the crypto payments industry. With the addition of its El Salvador DASP licence, B2BinPay is positioned to expand regulated payment solutions further into emerging economies while maintaining its reputation for security, compliance, and institutional-grade reliability. Takeaway B2BinPay’s latest regulatory achievement strengthens its multi-jurisdictional ecosystem, aligning global operations under transparent, compliant crypto payment standards.

In the middle of a crypto market still searching for direction, one project has defied the noise and steadily climbed into the spotlight — Ozak AI ($OZ). What began as a quiet AI-blockchain fusion has rapidly turned into one of 2025’s most talked-about presales, now having raised over $4.46 million and sold more than 1 billion tokens at a current presale price of $0.014. But what’s turning heads is not just the presale growth — it’s the math behind the projections. Analysts are increasingly confident that Ozak AI could be among the rare few tokens capable of turning a $500 entry today into more than $350,000 by 2029. 1. The $OZ Engine: A Real AI-Blockchain Hybrid, Not Just a Buzzword Unlike most AI crypto tokens that stop at branding, Ozak AI’s infrastructure is built for data intelligence at scale. The core lies in its Hybrid AI-Blockchain Engine, which combines machine learning with decentralized validation to power a range of predictive applications. Key modules like Prediction Agents (PAs) and the Ozak Stream Network (OSN) are designed to process real-time data from markets, finance, and Web3 ecosystems — creating actionable analytics in seconds. The inclusion of EigenLayer AVS and Arbitrum Orbit integration gives Ozak AI a DeFi edge, allowing it to operate seamlessly within multiple blockchain environments. This cross-chain, real-world AI functionality gives Ozak AI actual utility, a factor analysts believe separates it from the majority of speculative tokens in the market. 2. Big Partnerships Signal Real-World Confidence Another reason behind growing investor confidence is Ozak AI’s partnership ecosystem. Collaborations with SINT, HIVE Intel, Weblume, and the Pyth Network point to strong institutional and infrastructural support. Together, these partnerships reflect a project that’s executing on a technical roadmap, not a marketing gimmick. 3. Why Analysts Are Betting on the 1,000× Multiplier Having recently upgraded to the $0.014 price level and with the upcoming $1 listing, the project is already massive. If we look after this year, the ultimate price model shows milestones of $1 in 2026, $5 by 2027 and around $10 by 2029. At this price level, a $500 investment equals around 35,714 $OZ tokens. If the project reaches the projected price of $10, the same investment equals $357,140 – a 71,328% gain or around 1,000x from the current price.  Such numbers aren’t random hype — they’re grounded in Ozak AI’s data-centric ecosystem, where token demand could naturally rise as Prediction Agents and Data Vaults become operational. The Phase 7 Momentum — and Why Timing Matters Phase 7 marks a major transition point for Ozak AI, where ecosystem testing gives way to functional deployment. Analysts suggest that as the project prepares for its exchange listing, the final presale stages could see accelerated capital inflows — much like Solana and Polygon’s late-stage momentum during their early phases. This timing could be critical for investors eyeing long-term exponential returns. Bottom Line In a market filled with short-lived narratives, Ozak AI stands out for having both vision and architecture. The combination of advanced AI utilities, strategic partnerships, and a disciplined roadmap has placed it in a league of its own among presale tokens. If projections hold, a modest $500 bet today could evolve into a life-changing $350,000 portfolio within the decade — not through hype, but through execution. For more information about Ozak AI, visit the links below: Website: https://ozak.ai/  Twitter/X: https://x.com/OzakAGI  Telegram: https://t.me/OzakAGI 

Singapore, Singapore, November 18th, 2025, FinanceWire The collaboration expands institutional-grade security into blockchain-based financial systems, leveraging Web3 security expertise from CredShields and Checkmarx’s global AppSec platform. CredShields, a leading Web3 security firm, has announced a partnership with Checkmarx, a global leader in agentic AI-powered application security testing, to bring CredShields’ smart contract audits, blockchain vulnerability research, and decentralized security tooling to Checkmarx’s enterprise customer base. The financial sector is accelerating its exploration of tokenization, digital assets, and decentralized applications. Yet Web3 remains highly exposed: despite improved security tooling, multi-million-dollar breaches continue to impact major protocols in 2025, with smart contract failures still ranking among the leading causes of loss. Industry assessments this year show that a significant majority of contracts deployed to mainnet contain security weaknesses, underscoring that organizations entering Web3 cannot rely on conventional AppSec practices alone when adopting blockchain-enabled products. Through this partnership, Checkmarx is adding CredShields as a Web3 security partner to offer its enterprise clients specialized support as they operationalize decentralized technologies. The collaboration aligns Checkmarx’s established AppSec leadership with CredShields’ domain expertise in blockchain security, providing financial institutions, fintechs, and digital asset operators with an integrated path to secure both traditional applications and Web3 infrastructures. “This partnership represents a natural evolution in the AppSec landscape,” said Shashank, Co-founder of CredShields. “Together with Checkmarx, we’re delivering a seamless layer of security that protects enterprise systems, decentralized applications, and smart contracts with the same rigor and intelligence.” The partnership will focus on: Institutional-grade security for tokenized assets, on-chain financial applications, and wallet infrastructure AI-assisted smart contract analysis and high-assurance manual audits Joint stewardship of global standards including the OWASP Smart Contract Top 10 and related security frameworks A clear model for integrating Web3 security into enterprise DevSecOps and risk-governance structures “As enterprises extend their digital footprint into Web3, new attack surfaces emerge,” said Scott Sieper, Director of Product Management at Checkmarx. “Partnering with CredShields enables us to bring our deep AppSec expertise to blockchain environments and help organizations innovate with confidence while maintaining the same rigorous security standards they expect from Checkmarx.” Together, Checkmarx and CredShields will support financial institutions and enterprises seeking to build compliant, secure, and scalable blockchain-powered products, ensuring that risk management keeps pace with innovation across the digital asset economy. For more information about securing code at the speed of AI and the Checkmarx One platform, users can visit the website. About CredShields CredShields is a Web3 security firm specializing in manual smart contract audits, AI-powered vulnerability detection, and security automation tools for blockchain ecosystems. A contributor to the OWASP Smart Contract Top 10, CredShields supports leading protocols and enterprises with full-spectrum decentralized security solutions. Users can watch the demo: https://lnk.credshields.com/checkmarx-demo Contact Credshields marketing@credshields.com

The Nasdaq 100 (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen) slid to a one-month low today (point 3 on the chart), marking the weakest performance among major US equity benchmarks. The technology sector is facing a sharp pullback triggered by two key developments: → Shifting expectations for Federal Reserve policy. Market estimates for a rate cut on 10 December have continued to fall, with the probability now at 43%, down from 62% just a week earlier. → Growing doubts about AI-related valuations. A Bank of America survey of fund managers highlights extreme crowdedness in tech: 54% pointed to long positions in the “Magnificent Seven” as the most overpopulated trade, while 45% cited an AI bubble as the biggest tail risk. Technical View: Nasdaq 100 Our hourly analysis of the Nasdaq 100 (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen) from 10 November originally outlined an upward-sloping channel. Since then, persistent selling pressure has reshaped the structure: → the channel has widened to the downside; → its former lower support line has become the median resistance line. Demand dynamics: → The lower edge of this expanded channel may still provide a defensive barrier against deeper declines. → The sequence of shallow downside breaks (labelled 1-2-3), each followed by an abrupt reversal, resembles a Liquidity Grab, hinting at aggressive buying interest lurking beneath the surface. Supply dynamics: → The 25220–25415 region stands out as a confirmed FVG zone, where a strong imbalance previously allowed sellers to dominate. While bulls might attempt to lift the Nasdaq 100 back into its former upward channel, the feasibility of such a move will heavily depend on Nvidia’s quarterly results — a pivotal release for the tech sector, due tomorrow. FXOpen offers spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $1.50 per lot. Enjoy trading on MT4, MT5, TickTrader or TradingView trading platforms! The FXOpen App is a dedicated mobile application designed to give traders full control of their accounts anytime, anywhere. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

What Is Kohaku and Why Did Vitalik Buterin Reveal It Now? Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin gave developers their first live look at Kohaku, an open-source suite of privacy-preserving tools designed to enhance user protection across the Ethereum ecosystem. The reveal came during a Devcon stage demonstration, marking one of the clearest signals yet that the Ethereum Foundation is positioning privacy as a fundamental right rather than an optional add-on. Buterin told the audience that Ethereum’s privacy capabilities remain unfinished. “We’re in this very last mile stage,” he said, adding that the network “is still behind” where it could be on both privacy and security. To change that, he argued, requires coordinated development across wallets, infrastructure, and zero-knowledge systems. Kohaku aims to provide that foundation. The toolkit currently includes primitives for building secure, privacy-focused wallets without relying on centralized intermediaries. The long-term roadmap could expand to mixnets for network-level anonymity and ZK-powered browsers that allow users to interact with dApps without exposing sensitive data. The initiative reflects a broader shift inside the Ethereum Foundation, which has increasingly treated privacy as a core design pillar rather than a niche subfield. Buterin described the network as being on a “privacy upgrade path” intended to deliver “real-world privacy and security.” Investor Takeaway Kohaku signals Ethereum’s push toward privacy-by-default tooling. For investors, this adds long-term upside for infrastructure, ZK tech, and next-generation wallet ecosystems. How Does Kohaku Strengthen Ethereum’s Privacy Layer? Kohaku’s GitHub repository shows the project is still in early development, but several components are already live. The toolkit includes integrations with protocols such as Railgun and Privacy Pools, which allow users to shield assets without enabling illicit activity. Railgun supports advanced shielding features, allowing balances to be hidden onchain while maintaining compliance options. Privacy Pools, developed by 0xbow, uses “association lists” to prevent funds linked to bad actors from entering shared anonymity sets. This enables users to obscure holdings while still proving that their deposits are not tied to theft or sanctions evasion. A live demo on November 16 showed a Kohaku-enabled wallet shielding funds using Railgun. The long-term vision is to bring optional default privacy to any mainstream Ethereum wallet—MetaMask, Rainbow, or others—without requiring users to install specialized privacy add-ons. Kohaku’s structure is modular, meaning developers can pick and integrate individual components: proof systems, privacy layers, key-management tools, and eventually ZK-powered interfaces. The goal is to create a plug-and-play ecosystem for privacy-preserving dApps and wallets. Why Is Privacy Becoming a Priority for the Ethereum Foundation? Beyond Buterin’s advocacy, the Ethereum Foundation itself has broadened its privacy commitments. In recent months, the foundation has reframed privacy not as an optional feature, but as a baseline requirement for open blockchain systems. Last month, it launched the Privacy Cluster, a 47-member group of cryptographers, engineers, and researchers dedicated to making privacy a “first-class property” on Ethereum. The cluster’s mandate includes developing practical tools for mainstream users rather than experimental concepts limited to academic circles. The Foundation’s internal privacy team also rebranded in September. Previously known as Privacy & Scaling Explorations, the group is now called the Privacy Stewards of Ethereum—signaling a shift from theory toward real-world deployment. Their focus includes private voting, confidential DeFi interactions, and usability improvements that make privacy accessible by default. Buterin summarized the philosophy driving these efforts: “Privacy is freedom. It gives us space to live our lives in ways that meet our needs without having to constantly worry about how our actions will be perceived by centralized and decentralized entities.” Investor Takeaway A coordinated push for privacy tools could expand Ethereum’s long-term moat versus competing L1s, especially those pitching default privacy or ZK-native architectures. What Could Kohaku Mean for Ethereum’s Future? The introduction of Kohaku comes at a pivotal moment. As regulatory scrutiny intensifies globally, privacy-preserving technologies are under heavier examination, particularly after crackdowns on mixers and anonymity tools. Buterin and the Ethereum Foundation are attempting to chart a path that supports user privacy without enabling illicit finance—an approach centered on zero-knowledge proofs, opt-in shielding, and compliance-friendly cryptography. If Kohaku succeeds, it could reshape the wallet landscape, ushering in a generation of apps that offer privacy-first interactions while still operating within regulatory frameworks. It could also strengthen Ethereum’s position as the leading platform for ZK development, accelerating progress toward private DAOs, confidential DeFi, and secure personal identity systems. For builders, Kohaku lowers the barrier to creating privacy-native applications. For investors, it reinforces Ethereum’s long-term strategy: upgrade usability, strengthen security, embed privacy, and extend Ethereum’s reach into real-world financial and governance systems. As Buterin put it on stage: Ethereum’s next phase requires “concerted effort” across the ecosystem. Kohaku is the blueprint for that effort.  

What Is Behind Lloyds’ Move to Acquire Curve? Lloyds Banking Group, the UK’s largest high street lender, has agreed to buy digital wallet provider Curve in a deal worth roughly £120 million. Curve notified investors this week that it had signed a share sale and purchase agreement with Lloyds, with a formal announcement expected as soon as next week. The transaction marks one of the most prominent UK fintech acquisitions of the year, but it comes with heavy tension. Curve acknowledged in its shareholder circular that the agreed valuation “falls short of the ambitions we all held for Curve,” and that many investors would be disappointed. Still, the board emphasized that the sale represents “the best available path forward” for the company’s creditors and shareholders. Curve’s chief executive and founder, Shachar Bialick, previously warned that the business would likely run out of cash this year if a deal with Lloyds did not close. Curve has raised at least £250 million since its founding and once positioned itself as a flagship European fintech challenger. But rising customer acquisition costs, tightening funding conditions, and regulatory pressure have weighed heavily on mid-stage fintechs throughout 2024 and 2025. Investor Takeaway Distressed fintech exits are increasing across Europe. Strategic buyers like major banks are capitalizing on lower valuations to acquire wallet tech, customer data, and payment-routing capabilities. Why Are Curve’s Shareholders Furious? The deal has ignited a bitter dispute among Curve’s largest investors. IDC Ventures, which holds a 12 percent stake and is Curve’s biggest external shareholder, issued a forceful statement on Friday condemning how the sale was handled. IDC said it was “deeply concerned about the conduct of Curve’s management and board during the current sale process,” adding that governance and ownership issues remain unresolved. The firm also suggested the transaction may not be in the best interest of shareholders and warned that it does not intend to support the sale. More pointedly, IDC questioned why Lloyds — one of the UK’s most established financial institutions — would proceed with a deal that a major stakeholder believes is flawed. IDC said the sale “is not capable of being implemented without its support,” signaling potential legal resistance ahead. The venture firm has retained Quinn Emanuel, a heavyweight litigation practice, to advise on its next steps. Last month, attempts by several disgruntled shareholders to remove Curve’s chairman, Lord Fink, and CEO Shachar Bialick from the board were voted down. Since then, tensions have escalated as investors demand explanations over valuation, governance, and the distribution of sale proceeds. Why Does Lloyds Want Curve? For Lloyds, acquiring Curve is a strategic bet on the future of digital payments. Curve aggregates users’ bank cards into a single app and offers spending controls, rewards, and advanced payment routing features — technology that aligns with Lloyds’ push toward smarter, integrated financial experiences. The timing is also significant. UK and EU regulators are increasing pressure on Apple to open its payments ecosystem, potentially weakening Apple Pay’s long-standing dominance. Banks that own their own wallet and payment-routing layers could gain a competitive edge as restrictions on Apple’s NFC access and payment data loosen. Curve’s infrastructure gives Lloyds: A ready-made digital wallet platform that can be integrated into its mobile banking ecosystem. A multi-card routing engine that enables smarter transaction flows and merchant rewards. A faster route to competing with Apple Pay and Google Pay at a moment when regulatory winds are shifting. For Lloyds, the opportunity is to leapfrog legacy constraints and accelerate its payments roadmap rather than build the technology from scratch. Investor Takeaway Large banks are buying fintech rails instead of building them — a trend that may accelerate as wallet technology becomes central to retail banking and EU regulators push for greater competition in mobile payments. What Comes Next in the Lloyds–Curve Saga? The future of the acquisition remains uncertain. IDC Ventures’ resistance introduces legal and procedural risk, particularly if the venture firm argues that the sale cannot be executed without its approval. Curve’s board insists the deal is necessary to keep the company solvent, while IDC argues that governance issues and valuation concerns have not been adequately addressed. If the sale proceeds, Lloyds will inherit a distressed but strategically valuable fintech asset with a strong user interface, broad card-issuer integrations, and technology that could bolster its long-term payments strategy. For the UK fintech market, the Curve sale highlights the broader shift from growth-at-all-costs to consolidation, restructuring, and strategic buyouts. As funding stays tight and acquisition prices trend lower, more early- and mid-stage fintechs may find themselves navigating similar crossroads. That said, Curve represents a chance to accelerate innovation in the fight for digital wallet relevance. For Curve’s investors, the battle over governance and value is far from over.

What Just Happened With the EU’s Controversial Chat Control Proposal? The European Union’s attempt to mandate scanning of private messages has stalled again, marking another reversal for the bloc’s proposed “Chat Control” legislation and a significant win for digital rights groups. The latest draft of the Regulation to Prevent and Combat Child Sexual Abuse removed language that activists said would have enabled a backdoor for mandatory client-side message scanning. German digital rights advocate and Pirate Party Germany lawmaker Patrick Breyer flagged the change in a November 15 post, noting that a new line added under the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU stated: “Nothing in this Regulation should be understood as imposing any detection obligations on providers.” Breyer and other critics have argued that earlier drafts used vague wording about “all possible risk mitigation measures,” which could later be interpreted to force companies to deploy device-level scanning systems. These systems would check messages — including encrypted ones — before users could send them. While the backdoor clause has been removed, Breyer warned the public not to view it as a complete victory, describing earlier changes as “political deception of the highest order.” Denmark’s draft had simultaneously softened some scanning obligations while slipping in wording that allowed those same obligations to reappear through indirect means. Investor Takeaway Client-side scanning would break end-to-end encryption and undermine secure messaging apps widely used by crypto investors, developers, and businesses. The latest reversal reduces immediate risk, but the regulatory push for access to private communications is far from over. What Risks Still Remain in the Current Version of the Bill? Removing mandatory scanning does not eliminate all concerns. Breyer emphasized that the proposal still includes two major threats to digital privacy: Anonymous communication could become impossible. The bill still contains age-verification requirements for messaging platforms that would effectively eliminate anonymous email and messenger accounts. Critics argue this would disproportionately harm teens and vulnerable groups, while also exposing users to new privacy risks. Voluntary mass scanning remains allowed. Service providers may still choose to scan user messages without a court order. Privacy groups warn that “voluntary” scanning could become de facto mandatory under regulatory pressure or industry standard-setting. The legislative process is ongoing. On November 19, the Committee of the Permanent Representatives of the Governments of the Member States to the EU (COREPER II) is expected to endorse the draft as a “non-discussion” item. After that, the bill moves to a Council of Ministers meeting, where it could be adopted without debate unless a minister intervenes. Meanwhile, many unencrypted services — including Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Skype, Snapchat, iCloud email and Xbox — already run voluntary scanning systems. The European Commission believes mandatory scanning would increase the number of reportable cases by a factor of 3.5. Why the Crypto and Privacy Community Sees This as Part of a Bigger Battle The push to scan private messages touches the core of the privacy and encryption debate — a conflict that stretches back decades. Modern cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, are direct descendants of the cypherpunk movement of the 1980s and 1990s, which championed strong encryption as a tool for individual freedom. The Bitcoin white paper cited work by British cryptographer Adam Back, a leading cypherpunk. Back famously helped protest U.S. cryptography restrictions by printing encrypted code on T-shirts labeled as “munitions,” highlighting the absurdity of export

Cryptography veteran Adam Back believes that Bitcoin is secure from any meaningful quantum-computing attack for at least the next 20 to 40 years. The CEO of Blockstream and one of the biggest names in the cypher-punk world responded to community concerns about quantum threats by stressing that the necessary upgrades are already in motion and the timeline remains long. Adam Back’s comments come at a moment of growing anxiety in the crypto world about the potential of quantum computers to crack existing cryptographic standards. But he argues that, while the risk is real in the long term, it is not imminent for Bitcoin. He further pointed out that the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has already approved post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards, which Bitcoin could integrate well in advance of any quantum breakthrough. Adam Back Says Bitcoin Has Plenty of Time From Quantum Attacks In his remarks, Adam Back explained that current quantum machines remain too noisy, too small, and too immature to threaten Bitcoin’s core cryptographic layers, especially the elliptic-curve signature system (ECDSA) and SHA-256 structures. He estimated that a meaningful threat may be 20 to 40 years away. Moreover, he emphasized that Bitcoin’s architecture can evolve, shifting to quantum-resistant signatures and other measures before an attack materializes. Back’s perspective stands in contrast to some provocations in the market suggesting a “Q-Day” for Bitcoin is near. For example, some analysts have posited that quantum computers might pose a threat within a decade and attack the Bitcoin network’s encryption to steal funds. However, Back clearly undermines those threats, stating that while they exist, they are not lurking around the corner for Bitcoin. For individual Bitcoin holders and institutional investors, Back’s comments provide a measure of reassurance. If his timeline proves correct, it means there is ample time for upgrades and migration to quantum-proof protocols without panic or rushed transitions.  Also, many of today’s wallet designs, address practices or custody models can be reevaluated and improved with foresight rather than urgency. Plus, the narrative risk of a quantum “time bomb” undermining Bitcoin’s security overnight becomes less credible, at least according to Back’s perspective. Planning, Not Panic, Is the Key to Long-Term Growth According to Adam Back, Bitcoin investors and traders can hold their breath because a quantum attack isn’t imminent in the next two to four decades. From a network governance standpoint, the message encourages planning rather than crisis response.  However, while Back’s latest commentary offers a refreshingly calm and pragmatic view on Bitcoin’s quantum-computing threat, with an estimate of relative safety, some older Bitcoin addresses have already exposed public keys, making them theoretically more vulnerable to quantum attacks before the readiness timeline. In other words, the Bitcoin community can’t relax entirely, even while shifting the frame from urgency to strategic readiness.

Hong Kong’s financial innovation just reached a major milestone as the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) officially launched EnsembleTX, the live-value pilot of its Project Ensemble. The new phase allows real commercial banks to settle real-value tokenized deposits and digital assets, transitioning the project from an experiment into a real-world use case.  In the initial phase, the focus is on using tokenized deposits to subscribe to tokenized money-market funds and to support treasury and liquidity management in real time. The pilot will run through 2026, with interbank settlement initially handled through Hong Kong’s existing RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement) system, while a roadmap is in place to eventually support 24/7 settlement in tokenized central bank money (CeBM).  EnsembleTX and Hong Kong Create a Turning Point For Tokenization  Project Ensemble has long been presented as a strategic pillar of Hong Kong’s fintech future plans, but until now it was largely theoretical, with banks working through proofs of concept and controlled testing environments. With EnsembleTX, those concepts are now being tested with actual clients, real banks, and real monetary value. For context, seven commercial banks are participating in the pilot. These include HSBC Hong Kong, Standard Chartered (HK), Bank of China (HK), China Construction Bank Asia, Fubon Bank, Fusion Bank, and The Bank of East Asia. In a landmark first cross-bank transaction, HSBC facilitated a transfer of HK$3.8 million (about $489,000) in tokenized deposits for its client Ant International, to test the real interbank settlement capabilities. This is the first time tokenized deposits have moved across two banks in Hong Kong carrying real commercial value. And HSBC has now confirmed that tokenized deposits offer 24/7 availability, cost savings, and programmability, enabling corporates to automate payments and cash management workflows.  The significance here comes from real-value settlement. Unlike earlier sandbox trials, these are not simulations. The live-value pilot shows that tokenized deposits can now represent actual money moving across banks in real time. It’s also a push for greater interoperability, which is crucial to scaling tokenized investment products.  Hong Kong’s EnsembleTX Still Needs Scaling and Development Despite its groundbreaking live test, experts state that Hong Kong’s EnsembleTX still requires continuous testing and time to achieve interoperability at scale. According to the HKMA, the pilot will run until 2026, with interbank settlement conducted using Hong Kong dollars.  The broader framework aligns with the Asian country's Fintech 2030 strategy, which positions tokenization as a core priority for financial modernization. The HKMA has spent the past two years building the policy supports needed for this moment, including guidelines for digital bond tokenization, tokenized fund trials, and institutional blockchain infrastructure. Ultimately, the next couple of months will determine how quickly Hong Kong can scale tokenized banking from pilot to production. But with real-value transactions now live, the city has taken a meaningful step toward bridging traditional finance (TradFi) and blockchain-powered monetary rails.

Amanda Fischer, who used to be the SEC's Chief of Staff, recently said that buybacks done through decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), like Uniswap, could be considered securities transactions. She based her claim on SEC guidance from 2017. She stressed that laws backed by major crypto companies do not allow for token dividends or buybacks, which may help token holders make money.​ Fischer's comments have caused a lot of anger among crypto legal experts, who say that the rules are still unclear on the matter. Even while DeFi platforms like Uniswap, Aave, and Lido are still buying back tokens, the SEC doesn't have an official designation for these kinds of activity yet.​ Deaton's Response: Criticism and Context John Deaton promptly replied to Fischer's argument, pointing out how the SEC has been inconsistent in its messaging and enforcement in the past. He said that the 2017 direction Fisher talked about led to dozens of enforcement actions, but that SEC executives' later pronouncements gave clearer guidance that was continually changing.  Deaton talked about the 2019 clarifications made by then-Chair Jay Clayton and more current views from the Trump administration that imply most tokens don't meet the requirements to be classified as securities.​ Deaton also talked about Fischer's advice to the SEC during the Biden administration to sue Ripple Labs, which didn't work out in the end because XRP was never classified as a security. Judge Analisa Torres made a big decision: only secondary sales of the token to institutional investors constituted as securities transactions, not the token itself.​ SEC Enforcement and Changing Regulatory Tides As the SEC looks at how it enforces digital assets, the argument over token buybacks is still going on. Deaton said that most of the SEC's efforts against crypto-related companies during the Biden administration were undone under Trump. This left only a few situations, such as direct institutional sales of XRP, open to investigation.​ Other crypto lawyers, such as Marvin Ammori, the former CIO of Uniswap, also became involved. They questioned Fischer's position by asking why the SEC lost significant cases in court if the law was so clear.​ As DAOs and DeFi protocols conduct buybacks to increase the value of tokens, the primary question remains whether these actions constitute securities transactions. According to Deaton and other experts, there is a legal consensus that the SEC needs to give more formal guidance, and this is likely to be written into law as Congress moves forward with new market structure legislation.​ Unresolved Questions and Future Outlook Without clear guidelines from the SEC, those in the crypto market are waiting for more explicit rules from regulators. Hayden Adams, the CEO of Uniswap, is a key leader of the platform. He stated that current buyback options are based on the assumption that regulatory conditions are favorable. This illustrates the industry's sensitivity to policy changes.​ Deaton's public criticism of Fischer and other former SEC officials effectively argues for clearer legal standards, suggesting that outdated narratives about how the SEC enforces the law should not dictate how tokens are managed in the U.S. digital economy going forward.

What Is the Trump Organization Tokenizing in the Maldives? The Trump Organization and London-listed luxury developer Dar Global are launching a tokenized real-estate project tied to a new resort in the Maldives, introducing a financing model that aims to give investors early exposure to large-scale property development. The joint announcement on Monday described the tokenization model as “unprecedented,” marking one of the first times a major hospitality project will be tokenized before construction is complete. The project, Trump International Hotel Maldives, is scheduled to open by the end of 2028. It will include roughly 80 luxury beach and overwater villas located a short 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé. According to the developers, the resort is designed for travelers seeking maximum privacy and exclusivity — the core value proposition of Maldives tourism. Unlike traditional tokenized real-estate products, which typically fractionalize ownership of completed or nearly finished developments, this model lets investors gain exposure at the earliest stage of development. The structure aligns with a broader push in the real-world asset tokenization sector, where tangible assets such as property are minted on-chain to enable fractional ownership and 24/7 secondary market trading. Investor Takeaway Tokenizing a project before completion shifts real estate from a slow-moving asset class into one with near-instant liquidity, offering investors early access while giving developers a new capital-raising channel. How Tokenization Changes the Real Estate Investment Model The Maldives project is positioned as a strategic test case for how luxury developments can use blockchain to expand capital access. Traditional real-estate investment typically requires large minimum commitments, long lock-up periods, and limited liquidity. Tokenization breaks those constraints by allowing fractional shares to trade digitally. The developers argue that tokenization offers several advantages: Early-stage exposure is now accessible. Investors can participate before a project is completed instead of waiting for traditional property financing rounds or post-construction offerings. Fractional shares reduce entry barriers. Smaller investors can gain exposure to luxury developments historically reserved for institutional capital or ultra-high-net-worth buyers. Tokens can trade around the clock. This brings liquidity to a sector that has traditionally been locked into long-term, illiquid investment horizons. Dar Global CEO Ziad El Chaar said the initiative “marks a global first that blends luxury, innovation, and technology in a way that will transform how the world invests in hospitality.” The Trump Organization echoed this view. Eric Trump, executive vice president of the company, said the initiative will “set a new benchmark for tokenized real estate investments” while helping redefine luxury hospitality in the region. The company did not specify what exact financial rights or yield structures token holders will receive. Why This Project Matters for Crypto and Real-World Asset Markets The timing of the Maldives tokenization push is notable. Tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) have rapidly grown into one of the largest sectors in on-chain finance, with tokenized U.S. Treasury products, tokenized money-market funds, and asset-backed tokens all seeing significant inflows. The Trump Organization’s entry into the space brings: Mainstream brand recognition. Luxury real estate remains one of the most attractive testing grounds for tokenization due to its high capital requirements and global investor appeal. Political visibility. With the Trump family deeply involved in crypto during Donald Trump’s second term, the tokenization pivot adds another layer to broader U.S. crypto policy and market sentiment. Expansion of tokenized hospitality assets. Real estate developers may adopt similar models if tokenized funding reduces capital friction. The move also highlights how Trump-linked crypto ventures have become increasingly profitable. As of Oct. 16, the Trump family's broader crypto-related ecosystem — including World Liberty Financial (WLFI), the Official Trump token, and the Melania Meme token — reported roughly 1 billion dollars in pre-tax profit. Investor Takeaway Luxury real estate tokenization is shifting from experimental to commercial scale. If successful, the Maldives model may accelerate the trend of major developers raising capital through blockchain-native instruments. What’s Next for the Trump International Hotel Maldives? The 80-villa resort is still several years from completion, but the tokenization framework suggests the developers plan to begin onboarding investors well before construction finishes. If the offering gains traction, it could push other real-estate firms to tokenize early-stage development as a default financing structure. The project also arrives at a moment when hospitality demand in the Maldives is rebounding and high-net-worth tourism remains strong. For crypto investors, the broader takeaway is that real-world asset tokenization is rapidly moving out of pilot phases and into high-profile, commercially driven initiatives. Whether this specific structure becomes a model for future luxury developments will depend on regulatory guidance, global investor appetite, and the operational success of Trump International Hotel Maldives once the resort opens.