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    Crypto.com Secures Full MiCA Approval, Expands Services Across Europe

    Crypto.com has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first major global cryptocurrency service provider to secure full approval under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. This approval, granted by the Malta Financial Services Authority, allows Crypto.com to offer its services across all 30 member states of the European Economic Area (EEA).
    In a February 12 announcement on X (formerly Twitter), the exchange stated:

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    This achievement marks a major step in Crypto.com’s global expansion strategy, solidifying its position as a leading player in the cryptocurrency industry.
    Crypto.com’s Global Growth Strategy
    Crypto.com’s expansion into the EEA is just one part of its broader plan to grow its presence worldwide. Earlier this year, the company launched an institutional-grade exchange in the United States, complementing its popular Crypto.com App for retail users.
    In December 2024, Crypto.com further expanded its reach by acquiring Orion Principals Limited, a brokerage regulated by the Abu Dhabi Global Market. This acquisition allows the company to offer financial products in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a key market in the Middle East.
    Expanding Beyond Crypto: Stocks, ETFs, and Banking Services
    Crypto.com is not stopping at cryptocurrency services. The company has ambitious plans to diversify its offerings. In Q1 2025, it intends to introduce stock and stock option trading, marking its entry into traditional financial markets. Additionally, the platform will roll out new banking features, including:
    Personal multicurrency accounts
    Cash savings accounts
    Looking further ahead, Crypto.com plans to file for an ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) focused on its native token, Cronos (CRO), and launch its own stablecoin in Q3 2025.
    Despite these advancements, Crypto.com’s native token, CRO, has faced challenges in the market. According to CoinMarketCap, CRO is currently down 5% daily, 12% weekly, and 30% monthly, trading 90% below its all-time high from November 2021.
    Stock and ETF Trading for U.S. Users
    In another strategic move, Crypto.com recently launched stock and ETF trading for users in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Washington, and Arizona. The company plans to expand this feature nationwide, offering:
    Zero-commission trades
    Fractional shares
    Securities transfers within its app
    This initiative is part of Crypto.com’s effort to compete with traditional financial platforms and other cryptocurrency exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, and Gemini, as well as Wall Street giants such as BlackRock and Fidelity.
    Institutional Trading Platform
    Crypto.com has also introduced an institutional trading platform in the United States, designed to cater to professional clients. This platform offers:
    Over 300 trading pairs
    Advanced trading tools tailored for institutional investors
    This move signals Crypto.com’s deeper push into the institutional market, positioning itself as a serious competitor to established financial firms.
    Leadership and Global Presence
    To support its growing operations, Crypto.com has appointed Mohammed Al-Hakim as the President of its UAE operations. Headquartered in Singapore, Crypto.com now operates in 90 countries, making it one of the most globally accessible cryptocurrency platforms.
    Key Takeaways
    MiCA Approval: Crypto.com is the first major global crypto service provider to secure full MiCA approval, enabling operations across all EEA member states.
    Global Expansion: The company is expanding its services in the U.S., UAE, and Europe, with plans to offer stock trading, ETFs, and banking features.
    Institutional Focus: Crypto.com is targeting institutional clients with a new trading platform and advanced tools.
    CRO Challenges: Despite its growth, Crypto.com’s native token, CRO, continues to struggle in the market.
    Final Thoughts
    Crypto.com’s recent achievements highlight its commitment to becoming a comprehensive financial services provider, bridging the gap between traditional finance and the cryptocurrency world. While its native token faces challenges, the company’s strategic expansions and innovative offerings position it as a key player in the evolving digital asset landscape.
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    Bitcoin Could Hit $400K Analysts Point To 3 Key Catalysts For A Massive Rally

    Bitcoin enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as some analysts predict that the cryptocurrency could soar to an astonishing $400,000 in the coming years. This optimistic forecast hinges on three major events that could propel Bitcoin to new heights, drawing parallels to gold’s recent surge to record levels.
    While Bitcoin has experienced a prolonged period of stagnation, leading some traders to speculate that the market has peaked, others remain confident that BTC is on track to achieve significantly higher prices by 2025. One analyst even suggests that Bitcoin could mirror gold’s trajectory, potentially rising by 400% in the next cycle.
    Bitcoin Following Gold’s Footsteps to $400,000
    A pseudonymous Bitcoin trader, apsk32, recently shared an intriguing analysis suggesting that Bitcoin could follow a similar path to gold, potentially reaching $400,000 by 2025. Using a power law model normalized against gold’s market capitalization, the analyst plotted Bitcoin’s price on a logarithmic scale, measuring each BTC in ounces of gold rather than dollars.

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    Historically, Bitcoin has traded within a predictable range relative to the power law support line, as shown in the chart above. The analyst explained:

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    This analysis aligns with Bitcoin’s four-year market cycle, which suggests another significant price surge could be on the horizon.
    In December 2024, Blockware Solutions, a prominent crypto mining firm, also projected a bullish price target for Bitcoin. They estimated a bearish scenario at 150,000,abasecaseat150,000,abasecaseat225,000, and an optimistic target of $400,000. The firm highlighted three key factors that could drive Bitcoin to these levels:
    A U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: If the U.S. government decides to hold Bitcoin as a reserve asset, it could significantly boost institutional adoption.
    Federal Reserve Rate Cuts: Lower interest rates could increase liquidity in the market, driving more capital into risk assets like Bitcoin.
    Corporate Bitcoin Adoption: More companies adding Bitcoin to their balance sheets could create a snowball effect, pushing prices higher.
    Bitcoin’s Taker Buy-Sell Ratio Signals a Bullish Reversal
    While Bitcoin’s price has been range-bound between 95,000and95,000and97,000 in recent weeks, some analysts believe a breakout could be imminent. ShayanBTC, a well-known market analyst, pointed out that Bitcoin’s taker buy-sell ratio is showing signs of a strong reversal, indicating potential upward momentum.

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    Historically, when the 14-day SMA of the taker buy-sell ratio dropped to 0.96 (as seen in June 2024 and August 2023), Bitcoin experienced a bullish rebound. If the ratio climbs above the 1.0 mark, it could signal increasing buying pressure, potentially breaking Bitcoin out of its current sideways trend.
    Key Takeaways
    $400,000 Bitcoin? Analysts believe Bitcoin could reach this staggering price if three key events occur: a U.S. Bitcoin reserve, Fed rate cuts, and widespread corporate adoption.
    Gold’s Influence: Bitcoin’s potential trajectory is being compared to gold’s recent surge, with some predicting a 400% rise in the next cycle.
    Bullish Indicators: The taker buy-sell ratio suggests that buyers are regaining control, which could lead to a breakout from the current consolidation phase.
    Final Thoughts
    While the $400,000 price target may seem ambitious, the combination of macroeconomic factors, institutional adoption, and Bitcoin’s historical market cycles makes it a plausible scenario. As always, the cryptocurrency market remains highly volatile, and investors should approach such predictions with caution. However, the current indicators and analyses suggest that Bitcoin’s best days may still be ahead.
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    Cracked And Nulled Marketplaces Disrupted In International Cyber Operation

    In a major victory against cybercrime, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced its involvement in a multinational operation to dismantle the infrastructure of two notorious online marketplaces, Cracked and Nulled. These platforms, known for facilitating cybercrime, have been disrupted in a coordinated effort involving law enforcement agencies from the United States, Romania, Australia, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Greece. The operation, supported by Europol, has already impacted at least 17 million victims in the U.S. alone.
    Key Figures Behind the Announcement
    The announcement was made by several high-ranking officials, including:
    Antoinette T. Bacon, Supervisory Official of the DOJ’s Criminal Division
    Trini E. Ross, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York
    Jaime Esparza, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas
    Brian A. Vorndran, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Cyber Division
    Matthew Miraglia, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Buffalo Field Office
    Aaron Tapp, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI San Antonio Field Office
    Cracked: A Hub for Cybercrime Tools
    According to unsealed court documents, Cracked has been operating since March 2018, offering a wide range of illegal products and services, including:
    Stolen login credentials
    Hacking tools
    Servers for hosting malware and stolen data
    The marketplace boasted over 4 million users and featured more than 28 million posts advertising cybercrime tools and stolen information. It generated approximately $4 million in revenue and affected millions of victims worldwide.
    One particularly disturbing case involved a woman in the Western District of New York who was targeted by a cybercriminal using tools purchased on Cracked. The attacker accessed her online accounts, cyberstalked her, and sent threatening and sexually explicit messages.
    Law Enforcement Action
    The FBI, in collaboration with international partners, identified and seized:
    Servers hosting Cracked’s infrastructure
    Eight domain names used to operate the marketplace
    Servers and domains for Cracked’s payment processor, Sellix
    A related bulletproof hosting service
    Visitors to any of the seized domains will now see a banner notifying them that the site has been taken down by law enforcement.
    The case is being investigated by the FBI Buffalo Field Office, with prosecution led by Senior Counsel Thomas Dougherty of the DOJ’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Kruly for the Western District of New York.
    Nulled: A Marketplace for Stolen Data
    The DOJ also announced the seizure of Nulled, a similar marketplace operating since 2016. Nulled offered:
    Stolen login credentials
    Identification documents
    Hacking tools
    With over 5 million users and 43 million posts, Nulled generated approximately $1 million annually. One of its advertised products claimed to contain the names and Social Security numbers of 500,000 American citizens.
    Charges Against Nulled’s Administrator
    Lucas Sohn, a 29-year-old Argentinian national residing in Spain, has been charged for his role as an administrator of Nulled. Sohn allegedly facilitated transactions involving stolen credentials and performed escrow services on the platform.
    He faces charges including:
    Conspiracy to traffic in passwords
    Conspiracy to commit access device fraud
    Conspiracy to commit identity fraud
    If convicted, Sohn could face up to 15 years in prison.
    The case is being investigated by the FBI Austin Cyber Task Force, with prosecution led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys G. Karthik Srinivasan and Christopher Mangels for the Western District of Texas.
    International Collaboration
    The takedown of Cracked and Nulled was made possible through the cooperation of law enforcement agencies worldwide, including:
    Australian Federal Police
    Europol
    France’s Anti-Cybercrime Office
    Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office
    Spanish National Police
    Hellenic Police (Greece)
    Italian Polizia di Stato
    Romanian General Inspectorate of Police
    The DOJ’s Office of International Affairs also played a crucial role in facilitating the operation.
    Final Thoughts
    This operation marks a significant step in the fight against cybercrime, but it also highlights the ongoing challenges posed by illegal online marketplaces. While the takedown of Cracked and Nulled is a victory, the battle against cybercriminals is far from over.
    As always, individuals and organizations must remain vigilant, employing strong cybersecurity practices to protect their data and systems from potential threats.
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    📈Tether Launches USDT On Lightning Network, While Elon Musk’s Father Dives Into Memecoins!🔥

    The cryptocurrency world never sleeps, and the last day of January 2025 is no exception. Tether has announced the integration of its stablecoin, USDT, into the Bitcoin Lightning Network. Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s father, Errol Musk, has decided to enter the memecoin market. Let’s dive into the details!
    How Are Major Cryptocurrencies Performing?

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    January 2025 has been a month of significant developments in the crypto space, and it’s ending on a relatively stable note. Here’s a quick look at the performance of some of the top cryptocurrencies:
    Bitcoin (BTC): Down by 1.41%, trading at 104,475,withadailyrangebetween104,475,withadailyrangebetween103,907 and $106,351.
    Ethereum (ETH): Up by 2.35%, reaching 3,350.51,withadailylowof3,350.51,withadailylowof3,215.60 and a high of $3,365.72.
    Solana (SOL): Down by 2.15%, priced at 236.84,withadailyrangeof236.84,withadailyrangeof234.53 to $244.07.
    XRP: Holding steady at 3.08,downby1.283.08,downby1.283.06 to $3.15.
    As we head into February, the big question is whether this is the start of altcoin season. Stay tuned!
    Tether Integrates USDT with Bitcoin Lightning Network

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    In a groundbreaking move, Lightning Labs, the company behind the Bitcoin Lightning Network, has enabled Tether’s USDT to operate on Bitcoin’s ecosystem using the Taproot Assets protocol. This integration will allow for instant and low-cost USDT transactions, leveraging the Lightning Network’s infrastructure.
    Tether, which processed a staggering $10 trillion in transactions in 2024, is already a major player in global digital payments. This new development could further boost the adoption of stablecoins among Bitcoin users, making cross-border payments faster and more affordable.
    Ross Ulbricht Loses $12 Million Due to a DEX Error

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    In a surprising turn of events, wallets linked to Ross Ulbricht, the recently pardoned founder of Silk Road, lost $12 million due to a pricing error involving the memecoin ROSS on the decentralized exchange Raydium. An MEV bot quickly exploited the mistake, purchasing a large amount of tokens at a discounted price and selling them for a profit. This caused the value of ROSS to plummet by 90%.
    Ulbricht, who was attempting to add liquidity incorrectly, ended up losing 40% of the token’s supply. Despite this setback, his wallets still hold 10% of the total ROSS supply, valued at approximately $200,000.
    Elon Musk’s Father Aims to Raise $200 Million with Memecoin MUSKIT
    Errol Musk, Elon Musk’s father, is making headlines with his ambitious plan to raise $200 million for the Musk Institute through the sale of a memecoin called Musk It (MUSKIT). The token was quietly launched in December 2024 by a Middle Eastern company but failed to gain significant traction, losing over 50% of its value.
    Experts argue that without direct support from Elon Musk, the project has limited chances of success, especially when compared to memecoins associated with Donald Trump, which have captured significant market attention. Interestingly, the MUSKIT token has recently seen a sharp price surge, sparking renewed interest.
     
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    Will Sam Bankman-Fried Be Pardoned By Donald Trump? Efforts Are Already Underway

    The question on many minds is whether Sam Bankman-Fried, the disgraced founder of FTX, will walk free anytime soon. According to recent reports, his parents, Joseph Bankman and Barbara Fried—both prominent law professors—are actively exploring ways to secure his release from prison. One potential avenue being considered is a presidential pardon from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
    Could Trump Pardon Sam Bankman-Fried?
    Bloomberg reports that Bankman and Fried have been in discussions with lawyers and individuals close to Trump regarding the possibility of a pardon for their 32-year-old son, who was recently sentenced to 25 years in prison. However, it remains unclear whether they have directly contacted the White House or Trump’s team.
    The odds of a pardon seem slim, given the political dynamics at play. Bankman-Fried was a significant donor to Democratic campaigns, and his mother has strong ties to the Democratic Party. This could make it difficult to gain favor with Trump, who is a Republican. Additionally, unlike the case of Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road, Bankman-Fried lacks a broad grassroots movement advocating for his release. Ulbricht, who was supported by the Free Ross movement and libertarian groups (many of whom also backed Trump), spent over a decade in prison before receiving clemency.
    It’s also worth noting that Bankman-Fried’s case is relatively recent. He was arrested in late 2022 by Bahamian authorities, whereas Ulbricht was detained back in 2013. This timeline difference further complicates any comparisons between the two cases.
    The Fates of Other FTX Executives
    While Bankman-Fried received the harshest sentence in the FTX collapse case, other former executives have managed to secure lighter punishments by cooperating with authorities. For instance:
    Caroline Ellison, the former CEO of Alameda Research, was sentenced to just two years in prison.
    Ryan Salame, a former FTX executive, saw his original 7.5-year sentence reduced by one year under the First Step Act. His expected release date is now set for March 1, 2031.
    Gary Wang, FTX’s former CTO, and Nishad Singh, the former head of engineering, both received suspended sentences.
    These lenient outcomes highlight the benefits of cooperating with law enforcement, a path Bankman-Fried did not take.
    Final Thoughts
    The possibility of a presidential pardon for Sam Bankman-Fried remains uncertain. While his parents are reportedly exploring every option, the political and legal hurdles are significant. Moreover, the lack of public support for his release further diminishes his chances.
    As the story unfolds, it will be interesting to see whether Trump—or any future president—considers granting clemency to the former FTX CEO. For now, Bankman-Fried’s fate remains sealed behind bars, while his former colleagues enjoy lighter sentences thanks to their cooperation with authorities.
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    Ross Ulbricht's Freedom: President Trump Grants Full Pardon

    On Tuesday, President Donald Trump officially signed a "full and unconditional" pardon for Ross Ulbricht, the creator of the notorious Silk Road marketplace. In 2015, Ulbricht was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole due to his involvement with this dark web marketplace.
    A Campaign Promise Fulfilled
    By granting this pardon, President Trump has fulfilled another campaign commitment. Ulbricht was serving two life sentences along with an additional 40 years for his activities related to Silk Road. Trump personally called Ulbricht's mother to share the news of the pardon, stating, "I just called the mother of Ross William Ulbricht to let her know that, in honor of her and the Libertarian Movement that supported me so strongly, it was my pleasure to have just signed the full and unconditional pardon of her son, Ross." He further remarked that the length of Ulbricht's sentence was "ridiculous."

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    The case garnered significant attention within the cryptocurrency community, with many advocating for clemency for Ulbricht. Following Trump’s announcement, the Free Ross campaign expressed their gratitude, stating, “Words cannot express how grateful we are. President Trump is a man of his word, and he just saved Ross’s life. ROSS IS A FREE MAN!!!!!”
    The Timeline of Ross Ulbricht’s Case
    Ulbricht, who celebrated his 40th birthday in March 2024, faced convictions on seven counts linked to the operation of Silk Road. This dark web marketplace was known for facilitating the sale of illegal drugs and various illicit products, utilizing Bitcoin as its primary currency. Prosecutors from the U.S. reported that Silk Road enabled over 1.5 million transactions, totaling around $213 million.
    Ulbricht's arrest occurred in 2013, following his admission of having founded Silk Road. His subsequent sentencing in 2015 condemned him to spend the rest of his life behind bars without the prospect of release.
    A Renewed Hope for Freedom
    Trump first expressed his support for Ulbricht at the Libertarian National Convention in May 2024, pledging that he would commute Ulbricht's sentence on his very first day back in office, if re-elected. After Trump won the election in November, Ulbricht conveyed his gratitude to those who cast their votes for him.
    “I trust him to keep his promise and give me a second chance. After more than 11 years in the shadows, I can finally see the light of freedom at the end of the tunnel,” Ulbricht communicated via his social media account.
    In addition to his support for Ulbricht, President Trump has promised several initiatives related to cryptocurrency, including the establishment of a Bitcoin strategic reserve, the creation of a Crypto Presidential Advisory Council, the repeal of SAB 121, and the transformation of the U.S. into a “Bitcoin mining powerhouse.”
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    MicroStrategy's Bold Bitcoin Strategy: Visionary Genius or Risky Bet?

    While some critics label it reckless, advocates hail it as brilliant. Regardless, Michael Saylor remains firmly committed to Bitcoin, steering MicroStrategy through uncharted waters.
    Co-founder of MicroStrategy, Michael Saylor, has pursued an assertive strategy for acquiring Bitcoin, which observers characterize as either a groundbreaking business move or an imprudent gamble.
    Risks of an Unstable Asset
    Critics caution that the company’s significant dependence on the volatile nature of Bitcoin brings substantial risks. A drastic decline in Bitcoin’s price could jeopardize the company's financial stability, impair its capacity to meet debt obligations, or limit its ability to secure additional funding.
    Nevertheless, Saylor remains steadfast, asserting, "I have no reason to sell the winner."
    MicroStrategy stands as the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder, boasting a staggering 447,470 BTC. Such a massive holding heightens the stakes not only for the company but also for the broader Bitcoin landscape.
    Financing MicroStrategy's Bitcoin Acquisitions
    Although MicroStrategy is technically a business intelligence software firm, its aggressive Bitcoin accumulation strategy has led it to function similarly to a Bitcoin treasury operation.
    Saylor’s venture into Bitcoin began with a cash investment of $250 million in August 2020. Subsequently, he opted for debt financing, beginning with convertible notes—debt instruments that can convert into equity. These initial notes, often offered at low interest rates, aided in raising $650 million by December 2020, with subsequent issuances accumulating billions more.
    In June 2021, MicroStrategy raised $500 million through senior secured notes, which provided a higher return rate, backed by company assets.
    Most recently, on December 24, 2024, the company proposed a monumental increase in its common stock from 330 million to 10.33 billion shares and its preferred stock from 5 million to 1.005 billion shares. This flexible plan allows for phased capital increases rather than a one-time issuance of a substantial number of new shares.
    This move aligns with the company’s ambitious 21/21 Plan, targeting a $42 billion capital raise over the next three years—split equally between equity sales and fixed-income instruments—to finance further Bitcoin acquisitions and initiatives such as establishing a cryptocurrency bank and offering Bitcoin-based financial products.
    Criticism: A Reckless Scheme?
    Emeritus Finance Professor David Krause of Marquette University argues that Saylor's strategy is misguided. He warns that a sharp decline in Bitcoin prices could have dire consequences for MicroStrategy (MSTR), resulting in a significant loss of shareholder equity, compromising debt repayments, and potentially leading to financial turmoil or bankruptcy, which could trigger massive stock sell-offs.
    "In my extensive career in corporate finance and investments, I firmly believe that treasury assets should consist exclusively of liquid, low-risk securities, such as money market instruments," Krause stated in an interview with Cointelegraph.
    MSTR has mostly traded at a premium over the net asset value (NAV) of its Bitcoin holdings, with Bitcoin assets constituting 51% of its market capitalization as of January 9, according to BitcoinTreasuries.net.
    When the share price exceeds this NAV, MicroStrategy raises funds through debt or equity to purchase additional Bitcoin. However, Kruger warns that this approach invites risks associated with shareholder dilution.
    This strategy creates what could be seen as a feedback loop—where the value of the company’s Bitcoin holdings enhances its market standing, facilitating further debt issuance for additional Bitcoin purchases.
    Some analysts on social media have compared this looping strategy to a Ponzi scheme.
    “The cycle relies on the continuous rise of BTC,” stated financial analyst Jacob King. “If BTC stagnates or plummets (which it inevitably will), the cycle collapses. This is simply unsustainable and resembles a large-scale Ponzi scheme.”

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    MicroStrategy did not respond to these criticisms when Cointelegraph reached out. Yet, in a recent media interview, Saylor drew an analogy between his strategy and real estate development in Manhattan.
    "Just like Manhattan developers, whenever real estate values increase, they incur more debt to further develop real estate," he explained. "This has been happening for 350 years, contributing to the towering buildings of New York City. I would classify it as an economic principle."
    Kruger, while primarily critical of MicroStrategy's Bitcoin strategy, noted in a recent paper that it does not conform to the SEC's formal definition of a Ponzi scheme.
    According to the Securities and Exchange Commission, a Ponzi scheme is characterized by "investment fraud that utilizes payments owed to earlier investors from new investors' contributions."
    Gracy Chen, CEO of the cryptocurrency exchange Bitget, aligned with Kruger’s perspective.
    "Unlike a Ponzi scheme, which relies on fresh investor money to repay returns to previous backers, MicroStrategy's tactic hinges on the market-driven appreciation of Bitcoin," Chen elaborated. "This strategy resembles Charles de Gaulle's challenge to the Bretton Woods system by converting dollars into gold. It aims to exploit perceived flaws in modern monetary theory to capitalize on asset appreciation."
    The Unquestionable Success of Saylor's Bitcoin Approach
    As of January 8, MSTR shares were trading at $331.70, representing a staggering 2,200% increase since MicroStrategy's initial Bitcoin purchase on August 11, 2020, when shares closed at $14.44. During this same period, Bitcoin's value appreciated approximately 735%.
    Regardless of one's opinion on Saylor's approach, his strategy has indisputably enhanced both MicroStrategy's cryptocurrency portfolio and its stock performance, securing the company's position in the Nasdaq-100 index as of December.
    While there remains concern about shareholder dilution, supporters argue that Bitcoin's long-term growth potential may mitigate these risks. Additionally, Chen highlighted that MicroStrategy's convertible debt structure may provide a safety net during economic downturns.
    "A prolonged bear market could pose liquidity challenges and escalate debt management issues. Nevertheless, the unsecured convertible debt structure offers some protection against immediate forced liquidations," Chen outlined.
    “The company’s method for raising funds through equity offerings even during bearish markets further alleviates the risk of liquidating its Bitcoin holdings.”
    The Bitcoin Acquisition Strategy: A Clear Mission
    At its core, MicroStrategy’s objective is straightforward: continue purchasing Bitcoin.
    This asset is viewed not merely as a long-term investment, but as a hedge against economic uncertainty and a vehicle for enhancing shareholder value. It can also enable the company to secure loans or generate capital for future business ventures, all while avoiding the need to liquidate its Bitcoin holdings.
    "There’s significant profit potential within that substantial liquidity pool of Bitcoin," asserted Alexander Panasenko, head of product management at VixiChain. "By holding a large amount of this inflation-resistant asset, which retains value, the company can generate revenue either from simply holding it or through lending and borrowing opportunities."
    However, detractors point to a noticeable absence of a definitive exit strategy for Saylor. Bitcoin proponents reject the necessity for one, viewing Bitcoin itself as the ultimate escape from traditional financial frameworks.
    While stock dilution represents an imminent concern, the strategy has yielded significant benefits for MicroStrategy and the broader Bitcoin ecosystem, inspiring similar initiatives globally.
    "As long as MicroStrategy continues to lead discussions about the role of digital assets in our evolving economy—evidencing broader adoption within new businesses and unveiling innovative strategies for leveraging digital assets—it represents a positive development," Panasenko noted.
    "In the event of failures connected to such digital asset initiatives, it could cast a shadow over the entire industry, setting us back significantly."
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    The Highs And Lows Of Trump's Meme Coin: A $6 Billion Drop Before Inauguration

    As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his return to the White House on January 20th, investors are keenly watching for indications of his impending policies during his inauguration speech. Over the past weekend, he introduced a digital token that initially generated significant trading interest but saw a substantial decline just before his swearing-in.
    The Official Trump ($TRUMP) token debuted on the Solana blockchain on January 18, witnessing an early surge that propelled its market capitalization to over $15 billion by Saturday. However, by Monday, this figure plummeted to around $9 billion, resulting in a staggering loss of $6 billion in market value.
    As Trump's official inauguration approaches, investors are paying close attention to his upcoming speech to assess his immediate policy agenda.
    Unraveling the Decline: $9 Billion Market Cap and Investor Concerns
    Meme coins, particularly those associated with notable personalities and events, are notoriously volatile. The drop to a $9 billion market cap may be attributed to profit-taking by investors, skepticism regarding the token's long-term viability, and the speculative nature characteristic of meme coins.
    According to the official $TRUMP website, CIC Digital, affiliated with the Trump Organization, along with Fight Fight Fight, a co-owned venture, holds 80% of the total supply of the meme coin. This centralized distribution raises alarms about potential market manipulation or a large-scale sell-off once lock-up periods expire, which could further depress the coin's price.
    On Monday, 10X Research reported that $TRUMP became the most actively traded coin on Binance, achieving a remarkable 24-hour trading volume of $6.3 billion—outpacing Solana's $5.4 billion and Bitcoin's $5.1 billion.
    The firm commented, "While many dismiss $TRUMP as merely a meme coin, it can more accurately be described as a ‘fan token.’ This token allows holders to celebrate the market gains following Trump’s election in November and to express support for potential crypto-positive policies under his forthcoming administration."
    As a fan token, it could offer holders various benefits, such as exclusive access to events, news updates, and other privileges directly to their wallets.
    Melania’s Coin Launch: A New Chapter in the Trump Crypto Narrative
    Recent updates from Trump’s official social media platforms reinforce the token's legitimacy, with announcements appearing first on Truth Social and subsequently on his official X/Twitter account. However, if the “Official Trump” token is a fraudulent endeavor, it could become one of the largest scams in cryptocurrency history.
    This launch arrives at a pivotal moment, as Trump is expected to sign an executive order shortly after assuming office, prioritizing cryptocurrency initiatives. Reports indicate he plans to address the issue of crypto de-banking and to revise a contentious bank accounting regulation through executive actions.
    In a related development, Melania Trump has also unveiled her own meme coin, MELANIA, further fueling the Trump-centric cryptocurrency trend. The MELANIA website asserts that Melania Memes are fungible digital assets that are tracked on the Solana blockchain.
    In conclusion, the emergence of Trump's meme coin has stirred considerable interest and skepticism alike, potentially reshaping the cryptocurrency landscape amid his administration's evolving policies. The rollercoaster of its market value underscores the unpredictable nature of meme coins and the dynamics at play within cryptocurrency markets during politically charged times.
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    Trump's Executive Orders on Crypto Banking Policies: What to Expect

    As former President Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House on January 20, speculation is rife that his first day will be marked by executive orders aimed at reshaping the landscape of cryptocurrency regulation in the United States.
    According to a report from The Washington Post dated January 13, Trump’s administration is likely to prioritize actions addressing crypto de-banking and revising a contentious accounting policy affecting banks that deal with digital currencies.
    Key Changes Anticipated
    One of the notable changes may include the repeal of a regulation instituted during President Biden's term, which mandates banks to categorize cryptocurrencies as liabilities. This regulation is rooted in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s March 2022 Staff Accounting Bulletin, known as SAB 121, and has faced significant pushback from the cryptocurrency sector.
    The incoming Trump administration reportedly views the reversal of SAB 121 as a priority, with insiders indicating that this move is urgent.
    Concerns Over Financial Accessibility
    Critics within the cryptocurrency community have long condemned the Biden administration's approach as a focused effort to undermine the industry’s ability to access traditional banking services, often termed “Operation ChokePoint 2.0.” Prominent figures in the sector have called on Trump to take swift action, including issuing crypto-related executive orders within the first 100 days of his presidency, with expectations that at least one of these orders could be implemented on his inauguration day.
    In addition to policies related to cryptocurrency, Trump’s new administration is also predicted to revise several technology-related regulations. David Sack, appointed as Trump's crypto and artificial intelligence advisor, has expressed intentions to rescind Biden's 2023 AI executive order, which had faced criticism for emphasizing equity in AI technology development.
     
     
    Shaping the Future of U.S. Crypto Policy
    In parallel, Marc Andreessen, a well-known venture capitalist with deep ties to the tech and crypto industries, is reportedly playing a significant role in shaping the impending administration. He has been actively recruiting candidates for key government positions across technology, defense, and intelligence sectors.
    During his campaign, Trump made a commitment to enhance the U.S. cryptocurrency market, including proposals for a strategic Bitcoin reserve and the reduction of regulatory barriers impacting the industry.
    State Initiatives: Bitcoin Reserves on the Rise
    In a related vein, states like New Hampshire and North Dakota are demonstrating increasing interest in integrating cryptocurrencies into their financial frameworks by proposing legislation to establish strategic Bitcoin reserves. This is part of a growing movement among U.S. states aiming to diversify their fiscal assets through digital currencies.
    Ohio had previously explored the integration of Bitcoin into its treasury reserves, spurred by House Republican leader Derek Merrin's new bill. More recently, Texas Representative Giovanni Capriglione introduced the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act, advocating for the state comptroller to hold Bitcoin as a reserve asset for a minimum of five years.
    Furthermore, in November, Pennsylvania took a similar initiative when Representative Mike Cabell proposed allowing the state treasury to allocate up to 10% of its balance sheet to Bitcoin, highlighting the digital asset's potential as a hedge against economic instability.
    Additionally, corporate entities such as MicroStrategy and Metaplanet have been expanding their Bitcoin portfolios, indicating a growing acceptance of cryptocurrency in mainstream financial practices.
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    Bitcoin Surges Past $100,000 Amid Growing Momentum From Trump's Election Confirmation

    According to analyst Alex Kuptsikevich from FxPro, the cryptocurrency market is entering a phase of consolidation, characterized by robust investor sentiment and active purchasing, indicating prospects for further advancements.
    On Monday night, Bitcoin once again crossed the $100,000 threshold, marking its first return to this level in two weeks. This increase came in the wake of Congress officially certifying Donald Trump’s victory for the 2024 presidential election, paving the way for his inauguration on January 20.
    During a formal session held on Monday, Congress ratified the election outcomes for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Vice President Kamala Harris presided over this joint session of the House and Senate.
    By 12:09 AM ET on Tuesday, Bitcoin was trading at approximately $101,775, representing a 10% increase over the preceding week. In the meantime, the overall cryptocurrency market capitalization exceeded $3.7 trillion, hitting its highest value since December 19.
    Bitcoin Set for Upward Trend If It Breaks $109K: Analyst Insight
    Alex Kuptsikevich, chief market analyst at FxPro, remarked that the crypto market's short-term gains are evolving into a consolidation phase. He stated: “The market seems to be assessing the ground beneath it and is slowly moving upwards,” further mentioning that the current sentiment index of 76, which indicates extreme optimism, signals active buying and substantial potential for additional growth.
    He highlighted that current technical indicators suggest the conclusion of a standard correction, with a renewed growth trajectory aimed at reclaiming 61.8% of the November rally. This viewpoint would gain support if Bitcoin successfully surpasses its previous peak around $109,000. Kuptsikevich anticipates that Bitcoin's ascent will intensify following its successful breach of the $100,000 mark.
    Binance Highlights Bitcoin’s Exceptional Performance Following Breakthrough Beyond $100K
    Bitcoin initially achieved the $100,000 milestone on December 5, driven by rising optimism regarding Trump's potential to implement crypto-friendly legislative changes upon taking office. Trump had pledged during his campaign to turn the US into the "crypto capital of the world."
    As of Tuesday, January 7, data from SoSoValue indicated that US-based Bitcoin spot ETFs saw net inflows reaching $987.06 million, while US spot Ether ETFs attracted $128.7 million.
    On the regulatory front, China's authorities have taken a firmer stance by extending foreign exchange regulations to encompass cryptocurrency transactions. The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) has categorized these transactions as high-risk, advising financial institutions to vigilantly monitor all crypto-related activities.
    In a separate announcement, Binance released a report on Monday, showcasing Bitcoin as one of the leading global assets this year, second only to Nvidia. The report attributes Bitcoin's remarkable performance to several key factors, including the approval of spot ETFs, the forthcoming Bitcoin Halving, changes in monetary policy, and expectations for more favorable regulatory frameworks. Should this momentum persist leading into 2025, Bitcoin could further ascend in global asset rankings, solidifying its status as a prominent asset class.
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    Tether's Major Bitcoin Transfer: A $780 Million Move To Reserve

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    Tether, the issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin, has made a significant move by transferring over 8,400 Bitcoin into its corporate reserve—marking its largest transaction in nine months.
    According to data from Arkham Intelligence, wallets identified as belonging to Tether received two separate Bitcoin transfers on December 30, amounting to approximately 7,628.9 BTC and 775.6 BTC, for a total of just under 8,404.5 BTC. This substantial transfer is valued at around $780 million, with Bitcoin trading at approximately $92,500 at the time.
    With this latest addition, Tether’s Bitcoin holdings have now reached 83,759 BTC, equivalent to close to $7.75 billion. In May 2023, the company had announced its intention to allocate up to 15% of its net realized operating profits for purchasing Bitcoin regularly.
    This latest transfer represents Tether's first substantial action since March 31, when it added about 8,888 BTC, shortly after Bitcoin had crossed the $70,000 mark for the first time and briefly exceeded its previous all-time high.
    Bitcoin has seen remarkable growth in 2024, doubling in price and currently reflecting a 108% increase for the year. However, the asset has experienced a downturn this week, dipping from its mid-December peak of approximately $108,000.
    Among privately held companies, Tether now boasts the second-largest Bitcoin holdings, surpassed only by Block.one, which has 140,000 BTC, according to data from Bitbo. Overall, when considering both private and public firms, Tether ranks third, trailing MicroStrategy, which holds a staggering 446,400 BTC.
    The rise in Bitcoin's price over the past year has heightened interest in corporate Bitcoin treasuries, with various companies announcing that they are adding the cryptocurrency to their balance sheets in hopes of boosting their stock performance.
    One of the latest companies to embrace Bitcoin, KULR Technology Group, announced on December 16 that it invested $21 million to acquire 217.18 BTC, resulting in a more than 40% increase in its stock price that day—reaching an all-time high of $4.80.
    Additionally, Quantum BioPharma, a biopharmaceutical firm, disclosed on December 20 that it purchased $1 million worth of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as part of its treasury diversification strategy.
    As corporate interest in Bitcoin continues to grow, Tether’s latest transaction underscores the expanding role of cryptocurrencies in traditional financial strategies. With significant transfers like this, Tether is solidifying its position in the crypto market, while also hinting at an optimistic outlook for Bitcoin in the evolving digital finance landscape.
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    Future Challenges For Ether: Insights from 10x Research

    According to 10x Research, Ether may not be the best investment choice for the anticipated bull market in 2025, despite differing opinions among analysts.
    Markus Thielen, head of research at 10x Research, stated that Ether could potentially yield disappointing returns when compared to Bitcoin. Many analysts are still observing market trends to determine Ether's direction.
    "While we cannot disregard the potential for new catalysts, it would not be surprising if Ethereum faces challenges in producing significant rallies next year," Thielen noted in a market report released on December 30.
    Ether Labeled as a “Subpar” Medium-Term Investment
    Thielen remarked, “Although we acknowledge the volatility associated with Ethereum, we consider it a suboptimal investment for the medium term and expect ETH to lag behind BTC yet again in 2025.” He emphasized, “Our clear recommendation regarding Ethereum remains: ‘avoid.’”
    He pointed out that one critical metric to monitor in 2025 will be the trend in active validators. However, he highlighted a concerning trend as the growth rate of validators has recently turned negative, declining by approximately 1% over the last month. This raises alarms about the potential risk of validators leaving the network in increasing numbers.

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    In Thielen's view, the uptick in unstaking appears “reasonable” due to a perceived lack of "real demand" for Ethereum beyond staking activities.
    Contrarily, others hold a different perspective. Tim Lowe, the Chief Business Officer at Attestant, recently indicated to Cointelegraph that the demand for Ether could surge with improved marketing strategies and a cohesive value proposition, which would naturally attract more investors over time. He believes that diversifying from Bitcoin could serve as a straightforward catalyst for Ethereum's growth.
    Ether's Relative Underperformance Against Bitcoin
    Data from CoinMarketCap reveals that while Bitcoin (BTC) has surged 121.4% since January 1, 2024, Ether only recorded a 46.3% return within the same timeframe. The launch of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the U.S. on January 11, 2024, was met with robust demand, propelling Bitcoin prices to new heights in the following months. In contrast, when U.S. Ether ETFs debuted in July, the response was significantly muted, resulting in a more pessimistic outlook for the asset.
    During the year, Bitcoin ETFs attracted $35.3 billion in inflows, whereas Ether ETFs garnered only $2.66 billion.
    Thielen criticized the Duncan upgrade, which occurred in March, for arriving "six months too late" as it missed the peak of the memecoin frenzy and enabled users to shift to the more cost-efficient alternative, Solana (SOL). He expressed skepticism regarding the upcoming Pectra upgrade set for early 2025.
    “Out of the 19 upgrades that have taken place, only two had a substantial positive influence on prices, and those happened during Bitcoin bull markets,” Thielen remarked. He added, “The three significant Ethereum catalysts of 2024 have mostly failed to generate value.”
    Thielen anticipates that Ether may continue to fall short against Bitcoin in 2025. However, some crypto analysts feel uncertain about Ether's price trajectory, suggesting it could either rise or fall.
    In a recent post on X, pseudonymous crypto trader Cold Blooded Schiller indicated that Ether has remained “rangebound” since December 25, suggesting two possible outcomes: an optimistic scenario where Ether experiences a "sweep and run," triggering a price surge, or a bearish scenario where it declines to the low range of December 20, potentially retesting the $3,000 mark.
    Similarly, another pseudonymous crypto trader, Dal, suggested Ether might trend in one of two directions: “If we surpass 3,554, we could see a rally back towards 4k. If we fail, a drop to 3,102 might occur,” he stated in a post on December 31.
    MN Capital founder Michael van de Poppe has a more favorable outlook on Ether, indicating potential signs of a breakout against Bitcoin in January 2025. In a post dated December 24, he mentioned, “I wouldn’t be surprised if the $ETH / $BTC ratio surpasses 0.04 in January.”
    At the point of publication, the ETH/BTC ratio, which reflects Ether’s strength relative to Bitcoin, stood at 0.03571 according to TradingView data.
    In summary, while there are varied perspectives on Ether's future performance, caution remains the primary sentiment among several analysts as we approach 2025.
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    Getting Started With Affordable Crypto Mining - Your Essential Guide

    Have you ever dreamed of diving into the world of cryptocurrency mining without needing to invest in expensive hardware? You're in luck! Here are some accessible ways to jump into crypto mining without straining your wallet—or your electrical system.
    Key Points to Consider:
    Cloud Mining provides an opportunity to mine cryptocurrency by renting computing power online, though it may involve upfront expenses and potential hidden costs. Budget Hardware Options, such as lower-end GPUs or gaming computers, can enable you to start mining without a hefty investment. When choosing what cryptocurrency to mine, consider options that utilize energy-efficient algorithms like Proof of Stake (PoS) to minimize hardware demands. For newcomers, USB miners and browser-based mining can serve as budget-friendly introductions to the mining space. While the perception of crypto mining often involves sophisticated setups and high electricity bills, there are practical ways to participate in this exciting field without going broke. Let's delve into the actual costs and explore strategies to make the process more affordable.
    What Are the Costs of Crypto Mining?
    With the steep costs of electricity and high-end hardware, mining Bitcoin (BTC) these days isn’t as straightforward as it once was. The potential for profit largely hinges on your equipment and geographical situation. To get started, you’ll typically need specialized gear such as general-purpose graphics processing units (GPUs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Basic mining rigs can set you back around $1,500, and professional-grade models might surpass $10,000.
    Speaking of electricity, mining is energy-intensive. On average, it requires approximately 266,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to mine a single BTC. Fortunately, some miners are transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar or hydro power, to help decrease their costs and lessen their environmental impact.
    The electricity costs to mine one BTC can vary significantly, ranging from $13,300 to $133,000 based on your home electricity rates. In some locations, profitability is nearly impossible, while in others, you might still see a return on your investment.
    To analyze your potential earnings, online mining calculators can help assess your specific hardware configuration and energy expenses. You can also input custom hashrates if your hardware isn’t already listed.
    Affordable Crypto Mining Solutions
    Cloud Mining
    For those who prefer not to invest in hardware, cloud mining offers a cost-effective alternative. This involves renting computational power from mining farms via online platforms, allowing you to avoid the expenses associated with equipment ownership.
    Benefits include no noisy machinery, minimal electric bills, and no technical troubles. However, beware of initial costs and potential hidden fees within contracts. It's equally vital to thoroughly check the credibility of service providers before committing.
    USB Miners
    Think Bitcoin mining is reserved for those with significant investments? Think again! A USB Bitcoin miner is a small and affordable device that makes mining accessible to everyone.
    While these devices have a significantly lower capacity compared to high-end ASICs, they allow newcomers to get involved without excessive financial commitment. Pairing a USB miner with a mining pool can facilitate participation in the network for transaction validation at a minimal cost.
    For example, the GekkoScience Compac F is a USB Bitcoin miner with a hashrate of about 200 gigahashes per second (GH/s), available for around $120 to $150 depending on the retailer. However, proper setup—including cooling, power management, and reliable software—is essential for optimal operation and to prevent overheating.
    Gaming PCs
    If you own a decent gaming PC, you already have a great foundation for crypto mining. You can start with your existing setup and invest in upgrades as necessary.
    Affordable GPU options like the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super, AMD Radeon RX 570, or AMD Radeon RX 560 range from $500 to $1,500 and can offer solid performance at a lower price point.
    For your CPU, budget-friendly options like the Intel Pentium G4560 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200 work well for mining. With the correct configuration, you can enter crypto mining without overspending.
    Pool Mining
    Another economical option is pool mining, where you collaborate with other miners instead of financing your own costly equipment. Joining pools like CGMiner, BFGMiner, or EasyMiner allows you to share rewards based on the work performed collectively.
    While convenient, be aware that pool fees may eat into your earnings, and the payouts could be minimal depending on your contribution to the overall mining effort.
    Browser-Based Mining
    Browser-based mining represents a novice-friendly method by utilizing your web browser to mine small amounts of crypto while you navigate the internet. While it's unlikely to transform you into a millionaire, it doesn't require expensive setups. Websites like CryptoTab let you leverage your computer's processing power effortlessly.
    Some sites may employ embedded mining scripts that take advantage of visitors' computing resources to mine in the background; however, this can decelerate browsing speed and yield minimal profits compared to traditional mining.
    Which Cryptocurrency Is More Cost-Effective to Mine?
    The requirements for mining can differ widely between various cryptocurrencies due to their distinct algorithms and network complexities, which impact the computational power and energy demands.
    For budget-conscious miners, targeting cryptocurrencies that employ efficient mechanisms like Proof of Stake (PoS) is advisable. PoS does not involve traditional mining; instead, you can stake coins to help secure the network and earn rewards, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
    Considerations and Challenges in Budget Mining
    While pursuing low-cost crypto mining might seem less risky, several challenges can arise, including the specter of scams and market volatility. Hidden expenses like electricity and maintenance can quickly erode potential profits.
    Regulatory considerations are another aspect. Since local laws regarding crypto mining may be ambiguous, it’s prudent to consult with a tax expert to ensure compliance with relevant tax regulations and accurate reporting of earnings.
    Most miners may require several years to recover their initial investments, and the rapid obsolescence of mining hardware can significantly hinder return rates.
    Overall, while mining can still be prosperous with budget-friendly apparatuses, comprehensive planning, ongoing investment, and an informed grasp of market trends are vital for achieving long-term success.
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    WazirX (WRX) Suffers A 50% Drop Following Binance Delisting And New Investigation Orders

    The value of WazirX (WRX) plummeted by over 50% after Binance disclosed its decision to delist the token. Simultaneously, the Delhi High Court mandated a new investigation concerning the hacking incident involving the exchange.
    Key Points
    The price of WazirX (WRX) has experienced a significant drop of over 50%, igniting discussions within the market. Binance recently announced the removal of the WRX token from its platform, in addition to two other cryptocurrencies. The Delhi High Court has instructed a fresh investigation into the hack case involving WazirX, leading to heightened speculation in the market. The WRX token's value saw a staggering decline after Binance, one of the world's leading cryptocurrency exchanges, declared its intention to delist the token. This downturn is further compounded by the legal challenges faced by WazirX, as the Delhi High Court has called for an additional investigation related to the hacking incident that resulted in a substantial loss of funds. In a recent ruling, the court dismissed the Delhi Police’s earlier report, which claimed there was insufficient evidence for a criminal examination of the case.
    WazirX Confronts Serious Challenges Amid New Legal Developments
    In light of the recent legal developments, WazirX, the Indian cryptocurrency exchange, is grappling with significant challenges as the Delhi High Court has called for a renewed investigation. The court has dismissed a status report by Delhi Police regarding the hacking incident at WazirX, indicating that a deeper inquiry is necessary. This decision follows a petition submitted by Advocate Jaivir Bains, advocating for a criminal probe into the breach.
    It is essential to note that while the Delhi Police had previously indicated that no actionable case existed, Justice Sanjeev Narula has requested a new status report by February 13, 2025. The court's ruling implies that WazirX has not been fully exonerated, leaving its management subject to ongoing scrutiny. These recent legal developments have ignited conversations and debates within the cryptocurrency community.
    Moreover, this hacking incident is considered one of the year's largest cryptocurrency frauds, with approximately $230 million reportedly siphoned off from WazirX, causing widespread concern across the cryptocurrency landscape.
    Major Decline in WRX Value Following Binance's Delisting Announcement
    WazirX has encountered another setback with Binance’s official announcement to delist WRX tokens along with two other cryptocurrencies. Following this news, the price of WRX experienced a dramatic decline of 52.65%, reaching $0.1132 after an intraday peak of $0.2494. The trading volume for WRX also plummeted by nearly 19%, totaling approximately $21.87 million.
    Binance's decision is part of an extensive review process aimed at ensuring compliance with "high standards" and industry regulations. The exchange has decided to remove Kaon (AKRO), Bluzelle (BLZ), and WRX from its platform. Consequently, trading for the AKRO/USDT, BLZ/BTC, BLZ/USDT, and WRX/USDT pairs will officially cease on December 25.
    As WazirX continues to navigate these turbulent waters, the implications of these developments on the broader cryptocurrency market remain to be seen. Stakeholders and traders alike will be keenly observing how this situation unfolds in the coming weeks
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    Bitget Partners With TRON: A $10M Investment To Boost Ecosystem Growth

    Victoria, Seychelles - December 19, 2024 – Bitget, a premier cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 entity, has announced a strategic partnership with the TRON blockchain, which includes a significant investment of $10 million in TRX, the platform's utility token. This collaboration aims to enhance TRON's growing significance and market authority in the realm of on-chain global payments, expanding its diverse applications within the blockchain ecosystem, which encompasses centralized exchanges (CEX), decentralized finance (DeFi), and other innovative decentralized applications.
    TRON is recognized as one of the most trusted Layer 1 networks for developers, institutions, and everyday users worldwide. It has established itself as the go-to protocol for the on-chain settlement of USDT payments, boasting over 278 million user accounts and a robust reputation for facilitating quick, low-cost transactions. To date, TRON has processed an impressive average of over $10 billion in daily on-chain transactions and has generated more than $1 billion in total protocol revenue, showcasing its substantial adoption and utility in the real world.

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    With a rapidly expanding user base and over 9 billion transactions processed since its inception, TRON remains one of the most widely embraced blockchains worldwide. This partnership underlines the shared vision of both organizations to make blockchain technology more accessible and affordable for users everywhere.
    About Bitget
    Founded in 2018, Bitget is regarded as the world's foremost cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 platform. Catering to over 45 million users across more than 150 countries and regions, Bitget is dedicated to enabling smarter trading through its pioneering copy trading feature and various other trading solutions. Users can enjoy real-time updates on Bitcoin prices, Ethereum prices, and other cryptocurrency valuations. Previously known as BitKeep, the Bitget Wallet is a premier multi-chain crypto wallet that offers a wide range of Web3 solutions, including wallet functionality, token swaps, NFT marketplace access, and DApp browsing.
    Bitget is leading the charge in cryptocurrency adoption through strategic alliances, including its role as the Official Crypto Partner of LALIGA, the world’s premier football league, in the Eastern, Southeast Asian, and Latin American markets. The platform is also a global partner of Turkish national athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist), and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), inspiring the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.
    About TRON DAO
    TRON DAO is a community-governed decentralized autonomous organization committed to accelerating the decentralization of the internet through blockchain technology and decentralized applications (dApps).
    Established in September 2017 by H.E. Justin Sun, the TRON blockchain has undergone substantial growth since its MainNet launch in May 2018. As of late 2024, TRON supports the largest circulating supply of USD Tether (USDT) stablecoin, surpassing $60 billion. It has also recorded over 279 million total user accounts on the TRON blockchain, more than 9 billion total transactions, and over $24 billion in total value locked (TVL), as documented by TRONSCAN.
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    Extended Partnership Between Formula 1 & Crypto.com Until 2030

    Formula 1 and Crypto.com, founded by Kris Marszalek, have announced the continuation of their prominent partnership until 2030, as stated in a press release on December 19.
    Ongoing Collaboration Between Crypto.com and Formula 1
    In the recent Thursday announcement, the two organizations revealed their plans for the next five years, which will include creating exciting and exclusive experiences for fans at various key races. The collaboration has been in place since 2021, marking an important milestone in both entities' journeys.
     
     
    Emily Prazer, the Chief Commercial Officer of Formula 1, expressed her enthusiasm: “We have deeply valued our collaboration with Crypto.com since 2021, and with this extension, they will become one of our longest-standing partners. Our sport has evolved significantly during this period, and we are thrilled to have them continue their journey with us until 2030. We eagerly anticipate their engagement with fans through various race activations.”
    Both organizations have witnessed remarkable growth since the inception of their partnership; Formula 1 has garnered an impressive 1.5 billion viewers for its Grands Prix events, whereas Crypto.com now serves over 100 million users globally.
    Steven Kalifowitz, the Chief Marketing Officer of Crypto.com, remarked, “Formula 1 was among our first global sports partnerships and played a crucial role in establishing Crypto.com as the most recognized cryptocurrency brand worldwide.”
    “Optimism about the future of crypto remains high,” he added. “We can assure everyone that cryptocurrency is here to stay, and we’re thrilled to maintain our momentum alongside Formula 1.”
    Significant Meetings and Future Projects
    This ongoing collaboration arrives at an important juncture for Crypto.com, which is preparing to unveil enhanced offerings as part of its latest initiative, Roadmap 2025.
    Recently, the crypto firm gained attention when its CEO, Kris Marszalek, visited the Mar-a-Lago estate of President-elect Donald Trump for a meeting.
    The two figures reportedly deliberated on establishing a federal bitcoin reserves as well as creating a more crypto-friendly regulatory environment.
    In a December 16 post on X, Marszalek shared a photo of himself alongside Trump, captioning it: “Honored to have a seat at the table.”
    Trump, who introduced his family’s cryptocurrency platform, World Liberty Financial, earlier this year, has consistently promised to implement supportive regulations for cryptocurrencies upon re-entering the Oval Office next month.
    “We will have regulations,” Trump emphasized at the Bitcoin 2024 Conference this past summer, assuring attendees, “but from now on, the rules will be crafted by those who support your industry rather than those who oppose it.”
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    Trump Meets With Crypto.com CEO As Company Withdraws SEC Lawsuit

    In a noteworthy development in the cryptocurrency realm, Crypto.com has decided to withdraw its lawsuit against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on the same day that its CEO, Kris Marszalek, met with President-elect Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate. This meeting underscores the increasingly close relationship between politicians and the cryptocurrency industry, a relationship that could significantly affect how cryptocurrencies are regulated in the United States.
    On December 16, Marszalek posted on X about his trip to Florida, where he and Trump reportedly discussed ambitious proposals, including a national Bitcoin (BTC) reserve, valued at $106,444. They also touched on potential appointments related to the cryptocurrency sector within Trump's administration.
    This meeting is particularly significant as it coincided with Crypto.com’s decision to roll back its legal battle against the SEC. On December 16, the exchange filed documents in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, officially dismissing the case with prejudice—a legal term that prevents the case from being brought back to court.
    Previously, after receiving a Wells notice—which serves as a forewarning of potential enforcement actions—Marszalek indicated that the company would take legal action to protect the future of cryptocurrency. However, the firm later revealed that its decision to withdraw the lawsuit was motivated by a desire to collaborate with the incoming administration to craft a regulatory framework favorable to the industry.
    Since winning the presidential election on November 5, Trump has shown intentions to appoint individuals aligned with pro-cryptocurrency views. Notably, he had launched his own digital asset endeavor called World Liberty Financial prior to the election, signaling an interest in the burgeoning financial technology landscape.
    In addition to discussions with Marszalek, Trump also conferred with Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong in November about key personnel choices. Following these interactions, Trump announced the appointment of David Sacks, a former PayPal COO, as his “AI and crypto czar,” along with former SEC commissioner Paul Atkins as his choice for the SEC chair.
    These developments reflect a potentially transformative period for cryptocurrency regulation in the U.S. With the new administration seemingly open to working collaboratively with the industry, there is hope for a clearer regulatory landscape. This could lead to increased innovation and investment in the crypto space, but it will also be crucial for all stakeholders to ensure that regulatory measures protect consumers while fostering growth.
    The coming months will be pivotal in shaping how the cryptocurrency market operates in the U.S. and whether it can foster a safer, more robust environment for investors and companies alike.
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    LastPass Hackers Steal $5.4 Million From Users Just Days Before Christmas

    The white hat organization Security Alliance (SEAL) has warned users of LastPass to promptly relocate their cryptocurrency if their private keys have been stored on the platform since December 2022 or before.
    In a recent turn of events, the infamous LastPass hackers have potentially spoiled the holiday season for 40 more victims by misappropriating $5.36 million worth of assets from LastPass users—merely eight days prior to Christmas.
    LastPass experienced a significant data breach in December 2022, when cybercriminals managed to extract a backup of user vault data from its encrypted storage.
    As of September, it was reported that over $35 million in cryptocurrency had already been stolen. When considering the latest theft of $5.36 million alongside a prior incident from October 25 involving $4.4 million, the total amount stolen nears $45 million.
    The latest incident involved the stolen funds being converted into Ether (ETH), currently trading at $3,948.70, and was sent to various instant exchange platforms, according to blockchain investigator ZachXBT, who shared the news with his 48,400 Telegram followers on December 17.
    ZachXBT provided on-chain evidence of the latest LastPass-related thefts through the crypto scam reporting site Chainabuse.
    This serves as a critical reminder that any private keys or seed phrases stored in the LastPass password manager prior to 2023 are vulnerable, as emphasized by the white hat hacker group SEAL in a post on X on December 16, stating:
    "Transfer your assets before hackers take them for you."
    In addition to cryptocurrencies, a considerable amount of non-crypto funds has also been lost, with estimates indicating that approximately $250 million was stolen in May due to "tens of thousands of thefts," as noted by blockchain investigator Tay on X.
    Both SEAL and Tay are part of a broader community of crypto advocates urging former LastPass users to transfer their assets out of LastPass before it becomes too late.
    December: A Time for Increased Cyber Threats
    The recent surge in LastPass hacking incidents coincides with a rise in scams as the Christmas season approaches.
    The blockchain security firm Cyvers has pointed out that "hacker season" is officially here, advising everyone to be cautious and not trust anything that appears excessively festive. They also warned users not to disclose their two-factor authentication (2FA) codes and to steer clear of public Wi-Fi networks.
    In a similar alert, Meta, the parent company of social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has issued warnings to its users regarding various scam campaigns aimed at holiday shoppers. These campaigns include fraudulent promotions for Christmas gift boxes, fake holiday decoration sales, and counterfeit retail coupons.
    Scammers within the cryptocurrency sphere may be attempting to recover losses incurred earlier this year, particularly after phishing-related thefts decreased by 53% month-over-month in November, totaling $9.3 million.
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    Double Spending Attack

    Double spending poses a significant challenge in the world of digital currencies and cryptocurrencies. It refers to the risk that a single digital token can be utilized more than once, undermining the fundamental concept of money as a scarce and non-reproducible resource. This problem is particularly pronounced in decentralized systems that lack a central authority to oversee transactions.
    Grasping the Concept of Double Spending
    To fully comprehend double spending, it’s crucial to understand the mechanics of digital currencies. Unlike physical currency, which has a concrete form and cannot be split or duplicated, digital currencies exist solely as data. This characteristic introduces vulnerabilities, allowing individuals to attempt utilizing the same digital coins in multiple transactions.
    For example, suppose Bob possesses 1 Bitcoin (BTC) and wishes to spend it. He might initiate two distinct transactions—one directed to Alice for an online service and another to Charlie for a different service—broadcasting both to the network. If the network fails to recognize that both transactions refer to the same Bitcoin, it may accept both, allowing Bob to effectively double spend.
    Techniques Leading to Double Spending
    Several well-known methods can result in double spending:
    Race Attack: In a race attack, the attacker transmits two conflicting transactions to different nodes at the same time. If one of these transactions reaches a merchant slightly quicker, it may be processed before the other transaction is flagged as invalid. For instance, if Bob sends one transaction to Alice and another to Charlie before either has been confirmed, he might manage to keep his Bitcoin if one transaction gets accepted first.
    Finney Attack: A Finney attack occurs when the attacker pre-mines a block that includes a transaction spending specific coins. The attacker then might attempt to make a purchase using those same coins while simultaneously broadcasting the pre-mined block to the network. If executed successfully, the pre-mined block invalidates the original transaction, as the network accepts the mined block first. For example, if Bob pre-mined a block that sent 1 BTC to an exchange and then made a legitimate transaction elsewhere, he could mislead the vendor into believing the transaction was valid while still retaining control of the coins.
    Vector76 Attack: This attack merges aspects of the race and Finney attacks. The attacker disseminates multiple transactions to various nodes, using transactions from a previously mined block to create confusion within the network. This complexity increases the likelihood of deceiving nodes into validating conflicting transactions without proper checks.
    Historical Instances of Double Spending
    While theoretical examples help clarify how double spending could occur, real-life incidents showcase its potential dangers:
    Bitcoin's 2010 Incident: In 2010, a flaw in the Bitcoin protocol became apparent, allowing users to generate more Bitcoin than what was actually available. This vulnerability enabled double spending, ultimately leading to a temporary halt in the Bitcoin network and raising significant concerns among users. This incident underscored the need to address potential weaknesses in the system.
    Nakamoto's Intent: Satoshi Nakamoto, the anonymous inventor of Bitcoin, specifically designed the system to thwart double spending by employing a decentralized ledger known as the blockchain. Transactions are validated through collective agreement among network participants prior to their inclusion in the chain, thereby reducing the risk of double spending.
    Protections Against Double Spending
    The cryptocurrency landscape has adopted several strategies to effectively counter double spending:
    Consensus Mechanisms:
    Proof of Work (PoW): Used by Bitcoin, this mechanism requires participants (miners) to solve complex mathematical challenges to add blocks to the blockchain. The difficulty of this process serves as a deterrent to quick double spending, as an attacker must outpace the entire network to succeed. Proof of Stake (PoS): In PoS systems, validators stake their assets to gain the privilege of adding blocks to the blockchain. This method also helps prevent double spending by aligning the interests of participants with the security of the network. Transaction Confirmation: Every transaction is confirmed by multiple nodes within the network. The greater the number of confirmations a transaction receives, the more secure it is against double spending attacks. Many exchanges advise waiting for several confirmations (typically six) before considering a Bitcoin transaction secure.
    Timestamp Protocols: Blockchain technology timestamps each transaction, maintaining a chronological record that prevents alterations to previous states of the ledger. Once a transaction is recorded, modifying it becomes exceptionally difficult, providing a safeguard against double spending attempts.
    Node Validation: Full nodes validate all transactions independently, ensuring a consistent view of legitimate transactions across the network. This distributed validation means that no single entity can engage in double spending undetected.
    Conclusion
    Double spending continues to be one of the most significant obstacles in the cryptocurrency space, primarily due to the digital nature of these assets. Nevertheless, advancements in blockchain technology, particularly consensus mechanisms and transaction verification processes, have effectively reduced this risk. Historical incidents serve as crucial reminders of the importance of maintaining the integrity of cryptocurrency systems. As the industry evolves, continuous improvements in transaction security and verification will enhance protections against double spending, promoting greater confidence in digital currencies and facilitating their wider acceptance in the global economy.
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    51% Attack

    What is a 51% Attack?
    A 51% attack occurs when a single entity or group gains control of more than 50% of a blockchain network's total hashing power (in Proof of Work systems) or voting power (in Proof of Stake systems). This control allows the attacker to manipulate the blockchain in various ways, including:
    Double Spending: The ability to spend the same cryptocurrency more than once by reversing transactions in blocks they control. Blocking Transactions: Preventing other participants from confirming transactions. Stealing Rewards: Taking over the mining rewards for newly created blocks. Examples of 51% Attacks
    Bitcoin Gold (BtG): In 2018, Bitcoin Gold, a fork of Bitcoin, suffered a 51% attack that resulted in over $18 million worth of double-spent transactions. The attackers were able to mine several blocks within a short time frame, allowing them to perform double spending and undermine the trust in the network.
    Ethereum Classic (ETC): In January 2019, Ethereum Classic experienced a 51% attack that led to over $1 million in double-spent transactions. The attackers gained control over the network's mining power, which allowed them to reorganize the blockchain and spend the same coins multiple times.
    Vertcoin (VTC): Vertcoin faced a similar situation in 2019 when attackers took control of the network. The attackers initiated a 51% attack and were able to perform double spending, resulting in a significant loss of confidence in the network.
    Why Are 51% Attacks Difficult to Execute?
    While theoretically possible, conducting a 51% attack comes with significant challenges:
    Cost: Gaining over 50% control over a network like Bitcoin would require an enormous amount of computational power, making it financially impractical for most attackers, especially given the current mining difficulty. Recognition and Response: If an attack is detected, the community can quickly respond by forking the blockchain or implementing changes to the consensus mechanism, which could effectively negate the attack's impact. Reputation: Any entity that successfully executes a 51% attack would risk damaging their reputation significantly, which could lead to the devaluation of the cryptocurrency they control. Mitigation Strategies
    Several strategies can help protect against 51% attacks:
    Increasing Hash Power: Encouraging more participants to join the network can help distribute hashing power more evenly, making it harder for any single entity to gain control. Implementing PoS (Proof of Stake): Switching to or incorporating proof-of-stake mechanisms can reduce the likelihood of such attacks, as controlling voting power is different from controlling mining power. Regular Audits: Conducting regular security audits and promoting transparency within the network can help identify any weaknesses before they are exploited. Conclusion
    While a 51% attack poses a significant theoretical risk to blockchain networks, real-world executions are infrequent and often met with swift community responses. Understanding the implications and mechanics behind such attacks is crucial for anyone involved in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
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