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1. article Justin Sun: The Crypto Innovator on Forbes' Cover

   Justin Sun, the founder of TRON, has recently been featured on the cover of Forbes’ Digital Assets section, where he elaborated on his investments in World Liberty Financial (WLF), a project associated with Donald Trump. This spotlight reflects his efforts to merge digital currencies with traditional financial practices, highlighting his connections between technology trends, political networks, and new business opportunities.
   Key Insights
   Forbes showcases Sun’s attempts to integrate digital currencies with conventional finance. His professional journey is marked by daring decisions and a commitment to embedding cryptocurrency into established markets. The profile explores his relationships with political figures amid a complex regulatory landscape. Justin Sun’s Journey in the Cryptocurrency Arena
    
    
    
   Sun has made headlines for his youthful energy, controversial decisions, and swift accumulation of wealth. Born in 1990, he carved out a niche through unconventional strategies within the blockchain industry.
   Over the last ten years, he has cultivated an expansive crypto ecosystem encompassing public blockchains, payment solutions, trading platforms, and decentralized finance (DeFi) projects. Notably, TRON reportedly serves over 300 million users and processes more than ten million transactions daily, underscoring his ambition to create a more inclusive global payment network through blockchain technology.
   As Global Advisor at HTX, Sun has played a pivotal role in shaping the exchange's trajectory. Recently, HTX was recognized by Forbes as one of the "Top 25 Most Trustworthy Crypto Exchanges in 2025." Under his leadership, the exchange has prioritized compliance and user security while pushing for a seamless connection between traditional finance and blockchain technology.
   Justin Sun's Insights and Achievements
   Sun took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his gratitude, stating, “From a visionary to a global force — honored to be featured on Forbes as Crypto’s Billionaire Barker.” His recognition extends beyond this feature; he was the only Chinese entrepreneur in the top three of Forbes Portugal's “40 Notable Blockchain Entrepreneurs to Watch,” trailing just behind Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin.
   His accolades include appearances in Forbes' “30 Under 30 Asia” lists, showcasing his diverse interests, ranging from art collection and gaming to philanthropy and space exploration. In late 2024, Sun was appointed Prime Minister of the Republic of Liberland, where he champions policies centered on digital freedom and blockchain integration.
   Strategic Investments and Ongoing Legal Challenges
   The Forbes article shed light on Sun's partnership with the Trump family, detailing a collaboration that reportedly generated over $400 million. His $75 million stake in World Liberty Financial exemplifies how cryptocurrency is increasingly intertwining with mainstream business ventures.
   During his interview, Sun emphasized the value of adopting a long-term perspective in the crypto landscape, especially concerning industry volatility and trust fluctuations. Both HTX and TRON prioritize openness, community-driven governance, and transparency.
   Through these platforms, Sun aims to merge traditional finance with Web3, advocating for a shift towards a more transparent and efficient digital economy. Forbes summarizes his impact succinctly, noting, “This Eastern crypto pioneer is redefining global rules with code and consensus.”
   Legal Scrutineer from the SEC
   Sun’s latest ventures occur alongside ongoing scrutiny from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The regulator has accused him of fraud, manipulating the market, and offering unregistered securities tied to Tronix (TRX) and BitTorrent (BTT).
   Allegations suggest that Sun and his associates breached federal law by artificially inflating trading volumes. Additionally, updated filings indicate that Sun traveled to the U.S. often during his tenure at the Tron Foundation, despite publicly claiming otherwise.
   In February 2025, both Sun and the SEC called for a 60-day pause in legal proceedings to explore potential resolutions. A joint request indicated that this pause would serve the interests of both parties as well as the public, though it did not clarify whether a resolution would result in a settlement or dismissal.
   As of March 28, 2025, the case remains inactive, with no public updates provided regarding its progress. The outcome is still pending as observers eagerly await the results of the ongoing negotiations between Sun and the SEC.
   Despite the looming legal situation, Sun continues to pursue significant projects while maintaining his visibility in the cryptocurrency sector.
   Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
   How might increasing regulatory scrutiny affect digital finance projects?
   Heightened oversight compels companies to adhere to stricter standards. Experts argue this approach can enhance investor confidence and facilitate smoother progress by integrating digital assets with established financial practices.
   In what ways does the integration of digital assets with traditional finance alter market dynamics?
   Combining digital assets with conventional finance reshapes market behaviors and encourages broader participation. Analysts view this blend as a bridge connecting modern technology with tried-and-true financial systems to attract a diverse audience.
   Can collaborations with political figures influence the development of crypto markets?
   Alliances with political figures can shape public perception and influence regulatory measures. Observers suggest that such partnerships may bolster market confidence and pave the way for policies that unify cryptocurrency and traditional economic practices.
   

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2. article Elon Musk’s DOGE Initiative Gains Access to SEC Systems

   Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is reportedly integrating with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as part of a new liaison initiative. This collaboration is testing the boundaries of public-private partnerships in financial regulation and comes at a time when the SEC is pivoting towards a more lenient stance on cryptocurrency—a focus that has been brought up during discussions of the previous administration.
   Key Points
   The newly formed efficiency task force will have access to SEC infrastructure, raising concerns over whether these reforms may compromise the agency’s autonomy during a critical period of crypto policy adjustment. The SEC's diminishing workforce and a reduction in crypto enforcement highlight a regulatory gap increasingly filled by private sector initiatives disguised as cost-saving partnerships. This partnership exemplifies a strategy used during the Trump administration to reshape federal agencies via informal operational alliances rather than transparent policy-making. Musk's DOGE team is gaining entry to SEC systems, treating its members as internal staff for network and data integration. As cited in a Reuters report from March 28, the SEC has allowed DOGE representatives access to its resources.
   Internal Confirmation of DOGE’s Role
   An SEC internal email confirmed that DOGE members will be recognized as staff for purposes related to network access and data integration. The commission is setting up a liaison team to facilitate collaboration with DOGE, adhering to established protocols regarding ethics, IT security, and access approvals.
   “Our intention is to partner with DOGE representatives and cooperate with their requests, following the normal protocols for ethics requirements, IT security, and defining their need for restricted access,” the email indicated.
    
   While DOGE officials will primarily engage through this liaison team, SEC staff have been instructed to respond politely to any direct inquiries, but not provide substantial information without first consulting the liaison team.
   An SEC spokesperson confirmed the onboarding process but did not provide further details regarding Musk's level of involvement. The DOGE task force has not yet responded to requests for commentary.
   The SEC, as the nation’s primary financial regulatory body, manages vast amounts of confidential information, which includes non-public data from banks, public companies, and private investment funds. The decision to grant DOGE access raises questions regarding the initiative's focus and intent, especially given Musk's often contentious history with the SEC.
   The formation of Musk’s DOGE team aligns with government restructuring efforts initiated after Donald Trump took office again in January, during which Trump signed an executive order empowering DOGE to implement cost savings to diminish government expenditures.
   However, some initiatives by DOGE, such as attempts to terminate staff at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the closure of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), have faced legal pushback.
   The SEC Undergoes Fundamental Changes
   As DOGE secures access to SEC systems, the agency is currently experiencing a significant transformation. According to a recent budget report to Congress, the SEC has offered a $50,000 incentive to employees for resignation or retirement, resulting in over 600 departures, which represents about 12% of its total workforce.
   This change is part of broader federal cost-cutting strategies, supported by DOGE, promoting widespread government downsizing. Notably, federal employees have recently been asked to document their weekly achievements, with reports suggesting that noncompliance may lead to job terminations.
   Under Acting Chair Mark Uyeda, the SEC has taken a step back from its previously aggressive approach to crypto regulation. The agency has reversed its stance on several legal actions against firms such as Kraken, OpenSea, and Coinbase, aligning with Trump's push for a more crypto-friendly regulatory environment.
   Trump had previously criticized former SEC Chair Gary Gensler for his stringent regulatory tactics before Gensler’s resignation. Meanwhile, Paul Atkins, Trump’s choice for SEC chair, has indicated a willingness to collaborate with Musk’s DOGE team on improving agency efficiencies.
   As the SEC adjusts its oversight of cryptocurrency markets, the involvement of Musk, Trump, and DOGE highlights ongoing discussions regarding the balance between private influence and public accountability. The results may shape the future of how regulators adapt to emerging technologies without compromising investor protections.
   Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
   How could DOGE's integration with SEC systems affect data management?
   Integrating DOGE into SEC data systems may improve procedures and accelerate data sharing. However, this collaboration raises concerns regarding data protection and maintaining unbiased oversight.
   What broader changes might stem from this team integration?
   The inclusion of DOGE could serve as an example of how unconventional teams can merge with established government practices, potentially prompting shifts in operation within federal agencies.
   What risks are associated with uniting private contributions with public oversight?
   This partnership might blur the lines between private influence and public responsibility, risking the dilution of protocols while igniting debates regarding protections for sensitive data and the independence of regulatory bodies.
   

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3. article Dark Web Hackers Claim to Have Compromised Data of Over 100,000 Gemini and Binance Users

   A hacker group known as “AKM69” has allegedly created a database containing sensitive information about 100,000 users connected to Gemini, according to a report released by the cyber threat monitoring platform Dark Web Informer on March 27.
   Hackers on the dark web are asserting that they possess and are attempting to sell the personal data of individuals who use prominent cryptocurrency exchanges such as Gemini and Binance. This recent activity highlights ongoing concerns about data security in the crypto space.
   Key Details of the Breach
   The reported database is claimed to include personal details such as full names, email addresses, phone numbers, and geolocation data, with the majority of records originating from users based in the United States, and some entries traced back to Singapore and the UK.
   Market for Leaked Data
   The compromised data is being advertised in connection with various illicit activities, including targeted marketing strategies, scams, and fraud schemes.
   Notably, a day prior to this announcement, another actor using the alias “kiki88888” reportedly listed a separate batch of Binance user information that included both email addresses and passwords, totaling over 132,000 records. However, the origin of this data remains ambiguous.
   Dark Web Informer speculated that the compromised data might be sourced from affected user devices instead of a direct breach of Binance itself. They warned users to be cautious and refrain from clicking on dubious links.
    
   Similar Incidents in the Past
   These claims are reminiscent of previous data breaches. In September, a hacker known as “FireBear” alleged that they had more than 12 million stolen records from Binance, including sensitive personal information such as birth dates and addresses.
   Subsequently, Binance conducted an internal investigation and dismissed these claims, asserting that no sensitive user data had been compromised.
   Rise in Cyber Threats
   March alone has seen an uptick in cyber threats aimed at crypto users. On March 21, the Australian Federal Police alerted 130 individuals regarding a phishing scam that impersonated crypto exchange sender IDs, including that of Binance.
   Just a few days before, on March 14, users on social media platform X reported fraudulent messages that masqueraded as communication from Coinbase and Gemini, attempting to trick recipients into setting up wallets using pre-generated recovery phrases controlled by the attackers.
   Increasing Complexity of Cyber Attacks
   Earlier this month, Microsoft unveiled a new cybersecurity threat targeting cryptocurrency users. They discovered a remote access trojan (RAT) that infiltrates cryptocurrency wallet extensions on Google Chrome. This malware, referred to as StilachiRAT, is engineered to capture sensitive information from cryptocurrency holders.
   This discovery coincides with an alarming rise in cryptocurrency-related cyberattacks, where attackers are increasingly employing sophisticated tactics to target digital assets.
   Microsoft urged crypto users to enhance their security by utilizing antivirus software, cloud-based anti-phishing tools, and robust anti-malware protections to minimize potential risks.
   Alarming Surge in Fraud Related to Cryptocurrency
   The uptick in malware assaults on cryptocurrency holders aligns with a disturbing increase in crypto-related fraud. According to a recent report from prominent blockchain security platform Immunefi, losses within the crypto ecosystem surged by 20 times month-over-month from January to February 2025.
   In January, registered losses totaled $73,915,700, but this number skyrocketed to $1,528,342,400 the following month as a consequence of nine hacking incidents. Furthermore, this February figure represents an 18-fold increase compared to February 2024, which saw losses amounting to $81,603,400.
   

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4. article SEC Ends Investigation Into Crypto.com Without Any Action

   The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially ended its investigation into Crypto.com, which was previously accused of regulatory infractions under the leadership of former head Gary Gensler. This decision comes without any enforcement actions being taken against the cryptocurrency exchange.
   Crypto.com’s CEO, Kris Marszalek, announced on platform X that the investigation has concluded “with no action being taken against Crypto.com.” He expressed optimism, stating, “The fact that we not only persevered but became stronger is a testament to our vision and the community supporting it. Onwards!”
    
   Background on the Investigation
   In October 2024, Crypto.com received a Wells Notice from the SEC, signaling the possibility of enforcement action related to its token sales. In response to this, the exchange filed a lawsuit against the SEC, alleging that the agency was overreaching its authority by categorizing the majority of cryptocurrency transactions as securities. However, Crypto.com later withdrew this lawsuit in December 2024.
   Positive Outlook on New SEC Leadership
   Nick Lundgren, the Chief Legal Officer of Crypto.com, expressed his satisfaction with the current SEC leadership under the Trump administration. He stated, "Under the previous administration, the SEC weaponized and attempted to extend its congressionally mandated powers to harm an industry that its former chair disfavored."
   He emphasized the unfortunate circumstances that led Crypto.com to endure a lengthy investigation and ultimately file a lawsuit against the SEC to uphold the rule of law. Lundgren remarked, “Compliance and integrity are core to Crypto.com’s business, and we are excited to work with soon-to-be-confirmed Chair Atkins and the rest of the Commission on our long-awaited desire for legislation and rulemaking.”
   Recent Trends in SEC Enforcement Actions
   The SEC pursued multiple enforcement actions against various crypto firms last year under Gary Gensler’s leadership. However, many of these actions have recently been rescinded.
   Acting SEC Chairman Mark T. Uyeda commented on the withdrawal of civil enforcement actions against Coinbase, stating that the SEC aims to “rectify its approach and develop crypto policy in a more transparent manner.” The agency has also ended investigations concerning other prominent platforms, including Gemini, Robinhood, OpenSea, and Uniswap.
   

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5. article Memecoins 2.0: The Billion-Dollar Spectacle Persists Despite Market Crashes

   In an era where the pursuit of quick profits often overshadows prudent financial planning, memecoins have completely transformed investment behaviors. Despite a recent market meltdown, they continue to signify a considerable change in the cryptocurrency sphere.
   Following the incident dubbed "Libragate," prices of memecoins plummeted, erasing almost 60% of their market capitalization from the highs of 2025. Yet are these meme tokens truly finished? They seem to possess more lives than a hyperactive cat.
   As of March 10, memecoins still boasted a market cap of $47.9 billion. That’s hardly pocket change! Meanwhile, enthusiastic traders are still “buying the dip” as if it were Black Friday, convinced that whimsically named tokens such as Unicorn Fart Dust, Fartcoin, and Buttcoin will yield 100x returns before the year's end.
   Some label this behavior as irrational, while others view it as degeneracy. However, when has such criticism ever deterred anyone in the crypto world?
   Down but Not Defeated
   True, memecoins aren’t currently overshadowing established giants like Bitcoin, Ether, or Solana. Their prices have taken a massive hit, liquidity is scarce, and many traders who envisioned sipping cocktails on yachts are now sharing their frustrations in Telegram groups.
   Let’s not act like this is the first time memecoins have been declared extinct. Each time when naysayers write them off, they somehow manage to surge back—often with even more ridiculous rallies than before.
   After all, logic isn’t exactly the strong suit of the crypto world. If it were, we wouldn’t have seen absurd valuations for fart-themed tokens in the first place. Human nature assures us that people will always seek the next big hype cycle, especially when it comes wrapped in humor and the allure of quick riches.
   While memecoins are facing tough times, declaring them dead is premature. The moment another ludicrous trend takes hold, investments will surge again. In crypto, a decline often precedes a dramatic comeback—sometimes in the most astonishing, meme-driven fashions.
   Superior Marketing to Traditional Crypto Startups
   Forget about white papers, roadmaps, or security audits. Memecoins thrive on viral memes shared on X and rapid token launches; within weeks, they can reach a market cap of $50 million. In contrast, reputable projects devote years to product development, recruiting skilled developers, and securing funding, only to find their tokens struggling to gain traction.
   For memecoins, community engagement is critical. A more massive following correlates with increased price movement. These communities don’t merely speculate—they genuinely believe. When enough supporters rally behind a meme, the token sees a price boost.
   A Case Study: Shiba Inu and Absurdity in Action
   Shiba Inu has cultivated a dedicated fan base as the so-called rival to Dogecoin. While it hasn’t dethroned DOGE, it has blossomed into a $9 billion token with its own blockchain. Meanwhile, other tokens have taken an even weirder route; Fartcoin turned flatulence into finance, Unicorn Fart Dust embraced nonsensical branding, and Buttcoin, a 2013 meme parodying Bitcoin, made a comeback to poke fun at the entire industry.
   The formula is simple: the more outlandish the name, the greater the hype. Sometimes, “it’s funny” serves as the only investment thesis necessary.
   Although the market crash diminished some gains, let’s not pretend memecoins have disappeared. They haven’t reached zero, which, in crypto terms, signifies survival. A robust community, constant memes, and excellent comedic posts can keep even the most absurd assets afloat.
   Memecoins as a Challenge to Traditional Finance
   People are opting to invest in Dogecoin rather than traditional stocks like those of Apple, and for good reasons. While this may seem irrational, crypto has emerged as a refuge for those dissatisfied with conventional finance. Banks freeze accounts, regulators impose cumbersome restrictions, and insider trading runs rampant. In contrast, memecoins present a free-for-all environment, where anyone can score big or lose everything. No intermediaries. No constraints. Just the spirit of the ride.
   Buttcoin exemplifies how people will prop up virtually anything for fun. What started as a joke has enveloped a dedicated community aiming to make it the next Bitcoin. The sheer absurdity is what fuels its success.
   In a world that seems to have gone mad, why not cash in on the chaos? As financial markets become more centralized and controlled, memecoins provide an anarchistic counterpart. They embody the financial Wild West, where the most ludicrous assets can achieve billion-dollar valuations.
   Memecoins: A Reflection of Internet Culture
   Memecoins have indeed been part of the digital landscape since 2013, when Dogecoin was launched as a parody of speculative trading. Surprisingly, not even its creators took it seriously until Elon Musk became involved and assumed the role of its unofficial CEO.
   That same year birthed Buttcoin, which originated as a meme from a YouTube video. Years later, its community decided to transform this joke into a cryptocurrency. The token surged because people cherish humor—and many believe it has the potential to become the next big thing.
   Each new wave of memecoins pushes the envelope of absurdity—first DOGE, then Shiba, now Bonk. The market is now saturated with tokens inspired by flatulence, excrement, and playful irreverence, consistently outperforming serious projects.
   As long as there’s an appetite for memes, memecoins will maintain their foothold in the crypto arena. They have evolved into an asset class rooted in internet culture.
   Are Memecoins Here to Stay?
   While most memecoins begin as jokes, a few have developed genuine utility. For instance, DOGE is accepted as payment by Tesla, AMC, and GameStop, while SHIB holders can shop at top retail chains like Gucci and Whole Foods. Even newer ventures like Solcat are launching gaming applications to broaden their ecosystems.
   Memecoins are no longer mere jokes; they're forging a new financial landscape where virality, speculation, and internet culture dictate value. However, the recent market crash has significantly reduced valuations and prompted many to question their longevity.
   Are these tokens destined for obscurity, or are they resilient enough to endure? Historically, memecoins have proven to be remarkably durable, much like cockroaches—resilient, unpredictable, and eternally re-emerging. Investors should prepare for further turmoil because these tokens remain as volatile as ever.
   Memecoins might not be dominating the scene at present, but let's face it: The next great meme token is likely brewing in a Telegram group, ready to either soar to new heights or crumble spectacularly.
   Cryptocurrency Prices
   Cryptocurrency Symbol Price Bitcoin BTC $82,598 Ether ETH $1,825 Solana SOL $125.86 Shiba Inu SHIB $0.00001241 Dogecoin DOGE $0.166 Bonk BONK $0.0000112 Fartcoin   N/A Unicorn Fart Dust   N/A Buttcoin   N/A

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6. article Michael Saylor’s Strategy: Seizing Bitcoin Opportunity with a $1.9 Billion Purchase

   Michael Saylor’s Strategy recently made headlines by purchasing 22,000 BTC for almost $2 billion, capitalizing on a recent dip in Bitcoin’s price. This move comes despite rising concerns in the market linked to US President Donald Trump’s planned tariff announcement on April 2.
   In this strategic buy, the company, formerly known as MicroStrategy, acquired a total of 22,048 Bitcoin for approximately $1.92 billion, securing them at an average price of $86,969 each.
   As a result of these acquisitions, the firm now possesses over 528,000 Bitcoins, which were obtained for a total investment of $35.63 billion, averaging out to $67,458 per BTC, as revealed by Saylor, the co-founder of Strategy, in a post on X on March 31.
   
   Strategy currently stands as the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin worldwide, having crossed the remarkable benchmark of 500,000 Bitcoin on March 24, shortly after Saylor indicated a forthcoming Bitcoin purchase, just days following the company’s announcement regarding the pricing of its latest preferred stock tranche on March 21.
   According to data from Saylortracker, the company’s Bitcoin investments are up over 21%, translating into unrealized profits exceeding $7.7 billion.
   This nearly $2 billion purchase during the price dip occurs amid investor anxieties about Trump’s April 2 tariff announcement, which could heavily influence Bitcoin’s price trend for the upcoming month.
   The announcement is anticipated to outline reciprocal trade tariffs aimed at major US trading partners. This news may heighten inflation fears and dampen demand for risk assets like Bitcoin.
   “This sell-off isn’t the end of the bull run — it’s a healthy reset,” said Andrei Grachev, managing partner at DWF Labs, in an interview with Cointelegraph. “Markets often overreact to tariffs and macroeconomic headlines, but the underlying fundamentals remain strong.”
   Tax Implications on Unrealized Gains for MicroStrategy
   Even though Strategy has never liquidated any of its Bitcoin holdings, it may still face tax liabilities on its unrealized gains, which currently stand at over $7.7 billion, having spiked to $19 billion back in January, as reported by Cointelegraph.
   According to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, the company may be obligated to pay federal income taxes on these unrealized gains. This legislation instituted a “corporate alternative minimum tax,” applying a 15% tax rate to applicable companies’ modified earnings, as mentioned in a January 24 article by The Wall Street Journal.
   However, there is a possibility that the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) could introduce an exemption for Bitcoin under Trump’s more crypto-friendly administration.
   

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7. article U.S. Court Imposes Fine on CLS Global for Wash Trading Practices

   A recent fraudulent crypto operation involving fake tokens by the FBI marks a pivotal shift where regulators are beginning to leverage blockchain technology’s anonymity to target potential manipulators.
   Key Insights:
   CLS Global has been fined for artificially inflating trading volumes of tokens on decentralized platforms. The FBI is adopting the strategy of employing counterfeit tokens to catch criminals in the cryptocurrency market. International collaboration for enforcement is challenging the fundamental idea of decentralization as a defense against regulatory oversight. A federal court in Boston has imposed a penalty of $428,000 on CLS Global, a cryptocurrency market-making firm based in the United Arab Emirates. CLS Global pleaded guilty to engaging in a widespread wash trading operation, and the ruling on April 2 further prohibits the firm from conducting any business in the United States for a probationary term of three years.
   Algorithmic Manipulation: Code as a Mechanism for Market Deceit
   In January, CLS Global acknowledged its involvement in wash trades on Uniswap, a prominent decentralized exchange.
    
    
   The Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that CLS Global executed over 80,000 wash trades between February and September 2021. These trades involved transactions between the same buyer and seller, thus fabricating an erroneous impression of market activity.
   Court documents indicate that both CLS Global and its U.S. affiliate, Clarity Ventures, provided misleading information regarding their trading practices to exchange operators. CLS Global was indicted in September 2024 on charges of conspiracy to commit market manipulation, wire fraud, and a separate count of wire fraud.
   Ian McGinley, the Director of Enforcement at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), underscored the gravity of the situation:
   “Wash trading erodes confidence in the marketplace, negatively impacting both investors and honest market players. This case clearly shows that the CFTC will take action against such manipulation, regardless of a firm’s geographical location.”
   Wash trading is illegal across various financial markets but is notably challenging to oversee on decentralized exchanges (DEXs). This complexity arises from automated market maker (AMM) models that rely on liquidity pools rather than traditional order books.
   Do Market Makers Support or Compromise the Integrity of Crypto Markets?
   The case against CLS Global adds to a growing list of incidents revealing deceptive practices by crypto market makers. In the rapidly evolving crypto landscape, market makers are vital in ensuring efficient trading and maintaining price stability. These firms provide essential liquidity by facilitating buy and sell orders, aimed at enhancing market depth and efficiency.
   However, some market makers appear to be compromising market integrity. A case in point is Celsius, whose executives allegedly used Wintermute in 2023 to artificially inflate their native token's market value.
   In May 2024, Binance faced additional scrutiny when an employee was terminated for alleging he had discovered signs of market manipulation by DWF Labs, another market maker. Reports claim DWF Labs may have executed pump-and-dump schemes totaling $300 million on tokens such as $YGG, although the firm has contested these allegations.
   This troubling trend extends beyond individual companies. Earlier this year, the CFTC secured a $130 million ruling against the founders of EmpiresX, a fraudulent crypto investment scheme. Meanwhile, Chainalysis' report from January 2025 confirmed the pervasive nature of wash trading in the cryptocurrency sector, revealing that trading activities accounted for at least $2.57 billion in wash trading volume in 2024, especially among ERC20 and BEP20 tokens on DEXs, primarily driven by AMM systems.
   Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
   Is wash trading restricted to financial markets?
   No, wash trading can also be found in political prediction markets. An example of this is Polymarket, which has seen up to one-third of its trading volume attributed to wash trading, according to a recent Fortune report.
   Are there tools available to combat wash trading in the crypto sector?
   Indeed, researchers at Cornell University have recently developed a tool called PERSEUS, designed to assist in identifying wash trading activities in the cryptocurrency market while also tracking and exposing pump-and-dump schemes.
   The USD Department of Justice (DOJ) disclosed that CLS Global was among three parties that agreed to manipulate trades involving “NexFundAI,” a fictitious Ethereum-based token devised by the FBI in May 2024. As part of the operation, it was discovered that CLS Global utilized automated algorithms to replicate authentic trading activity through self-trading across various wallets, thereby creating a fraudulent sense of demand aimed at enticing genuine investors to buy the tokens.
    
   

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8. article Cosmos ($ATOM) Experiences Notable Price Surge Amid Staking Developments: Is It the Right Moment to Invest Despite Security Worries?

   Cosmos ($ATOM) saw a 10% increase recently, fueled by eToro's announcement of staking integration and significant progress within its ecosystem. However, persistent security concerns cast a shadow over the excitement, leading to a sense of cautious optimism among potential investors.
   On Friday, March 29, Cosmos ($ATOM) surged by 10% following eToro's declaration of staking support for the token, which elevated its price to a local high of $4.86. eToro's initiative allows eligible users to earn rewards by holding both Cosmos ($ATOM) and Polkadot ($DOT), triggering the recent price spike.
   Despite this rally, the token has declined by 57.3% year-to-date, positioning it as one of the weaker performers among the top 50 cryptocurrencies.
   Building a Robust Ecosystem and Expanding Cross-Chain Features
   Cosmos remains focused on its vision of becoming the "Internet of Blockchains," aiming to enhance cross-chain communication and data exchange.
   A significant milestone occurred on March 18 when the Interchain Foundation, a prominent organization within the Cosmos ecosystem, open-sourced Evmos. This development established Evmos as the native Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) framework for the network.
   Launched in 2022 as a progression of the Ethermint project from 2016, Evmos facilitates Ethereum compatibility across more than 200 application chains within the Cosmos multi-chain ecosystem.
   Additionally, there has been progress in stablecoin issuance. In November 2024, asset issuance chain Noble, in collaboration with fiat issuer Monerium, introduced the first Euro-backed stablecoin on Cosmos. This stablecoin is designed to be fully interoperable and can easily be exchanged with $USDC across any blockchain that integrates with Cosmos.
   Investor Concerns Heightened by Lazarus Group Allegations
   Investor unease was stirred by reports linking some contributors from the Cosmos community to the Lazarus Group, a North Korean cybercrime organization responsible for high-profile hacks, including the $600 million exploit of the Ronin bridge.
   In response, Informal Systems—a core development team within the Cosmos ecosystem—proposed a "phased removal" of the Cosmos Liquid Staking Module (LSM), which oversees staking and governance operations. The proposal aims to replace this module with a new validator and governance framework that emphasizes security and fosters trust within the network.
   Speculation surrounding these allegations has negatively impacted market sentiment. From its peak above $44 during the bullish trend of 2021, $ATOM has since lost over 80% of its value.
   Technical Analysis – Support Levels Hold, but Reversal Uncertain
   As of the latest data, Cosmos ($ATOM) is trading at $4.69, reflecting a 9.32% increase for the day. While the token has been in a downtrend since dropping below $10, recent price movements hint at the formation of a potential base around the $4 mark.
   Key support is identified at $4.00, while immediate resistance is observed at $5.00. The MACD momentum currently shows a neutral reading, indicating that a bullish crossover could signal an early trend reversal.
   Cosmos appears to have established a double bottom pattern between September 2024 and March 2025, a bullish setup that investors often monitor. However, a decline below $4.00 would invalidate this formation, suggesting further downside risk.
   If $ATOM can maintain its position above $5.00 and breach this resistance level, it could signal a movement toward the $5.50–$6.00 range, indicating a potential shift in short-term market sentiment.
   In conclusion, while the recent staking support and technical advancements have rekindled interest in Cosmos, ongoing concerns regarding governance and security continue to undermine investor confidence. Traders might want to look for confirmation above the $5.00 level before considering further investment opportunities.
   

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     • April 6

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9. article Title: Ross Ulbricht's First Public Appearance After Release: A Return to the Spotlight at the Bitcoin Conference

   Ross Ulbricht, the mastermind behind the Silk Road darknet marketplace, has announced he will make his inaugural public appearance post-incarceration at an upcoming Bitcoin conference in Las Vegas. His announcement follows a complete pardon granted by President Trump, who fulfilled a campaign commitment from 2024 by commuting Ulbricht’s sentence on his first day back in office.
   On Thursday, Ulbricht shared the news on X, enthusiastically stating, “I’m thrilled to announce that I will be speaking publicly for the first time since my release at The Bitcoin Conference in Las Vegas.”
   This announcement comes just months after former President Donald Trump issued a full and unconditional pardon via an executive order in January, aligning with a promise made during the Libertarian National Convention to commute Ulbricht’s sentence if he returned to office.
   Ulbricht’s Silk Road Vision Concludes with a Landmark Federal Sentence
   Originally sentenced to two life terms plus an additional 40 years without the possibility of parole, Ulbricht was convicted in 2015 on seven charges tied to his operation of Silk Road, which served as a marketplace on the dark web for illegal drugs and other services. During its operation, the site was responsible for over 1.5 million transactions valued at approximately $213 million, all conducted using Bitcoin.
   A graduate in physics and an early proponent of Bitcoin, Ulbricht envisioned Silk Road as a libertarian experiment aimed at promoting free trade. In his private writings, he expressed his aspiration to create a platform that allowed individuals to buy anything they desired without governmental oversight.
   However, U.S. prosecutors contended that the site facilitated rampant criminal behavior and posed a threat to public safety.
   Ulbricht’s Post-Incarceration Involvement in the Cryptocurrency Sphere Gains Attention
   Ulbricht’s journey began with his arrest in 2013 at a San Francisco library, where he eventually acknowledged his role in establishing Silk Road. His trial quickly became a landmark case in the world of cryptocurrency, sparking controversy and garnering attention from both supporters and detractors across the political spectrum.
   Since his release, Ulbricht has continued to remain actively involved in the cryptocurrency community. In February, he expressed support for clemency for Roger Ver, a well-known Bitcoin investor facing significant tax-related charges.
   

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10. article New Malicious Campaign Aims at Atomic and Exodus Wallets

    Recent findings by researchers reveal that a malicious campaign is currently targeting specific versions of the well-known cryptocurrency wallets, Exodus and Atomic. The security firm ReversingLabs reports that threat actors are intensifying their efforts against the cryptocurrency community using various methods to exploit popular crypto packages for the purpose of stealing funds.
    While hijacking open-source software packages is inherently challenging due to the extensive nature of the open-source community, which often identifies tampered packages quickly, the attackers are evolving their tactics to evade detection. One newly identified method involves uploading packages to open-source repositories and applying malicious "patches" to legitimate local libraries.
    The aim remains the same: to implant undetectable malicious code into reliable, widely-used libraries.
    In recent weeks, researchers have discovered “numerous campaigns” employing this strategy. One notable example occurred on April 1, when a malicious entity released a package named pdf-to-office through the npm package manager, claiming to be a library for converting PDF files to Microsoft Office documents.
    When executed, this package could inject harmful code into locally installed versions of Atomic Wallet and Exodus, overwriting crucial files. This effectively meant that any victim attempting to transfer cryptocurrency would have the intended recipient’s address substituted with that of the malicious actor, as outlined in the report.
    This ongoing campaign bears similarities to one previously discussed by the researchers in March, emphasizing the persistent threat posed to the cryptocurrency community. Importantly, these malicious activities do not impact the official installers for Atomic Wallet and Exodus Wallet available on their respective websites.
    Targeting Specific Wallet Versions
    The pdf-to-office package was first detected following its update on npm on April 1 and was promptly removed after the discovery. However, just days later, the threat actor released a new iteration resembling the original. Over the course of several weeks in March and April, they made three versions of the package available, all possessing the same malicious functionality.
    The harmful payload was designed to identify the presence of the atomic/resources/app.asar archive within the AppData/Local/Programs directory. If found, it indicated that the user had installed Atomic Wallet on their compromised machine.
    Subsequently, the malicious code would search for the targeted archive and overwrite one of its files with a trojanized variant that altered the outgoing cryptocurrency address. As a result, any funds would be redirected to the attacker’s digital wallet.
    Significantly, “the sole distinction between the legitimate file and the trojanized version was that the latter was not minified,” the report states.
    Additionally, the threat actors were fixated on specific versions of Atomic Wallet. The attack’s code dynamically adjusted its target files based on the version of the wallet detected.
    Moreover, there was a hazard that sought to implant a trojanized file into a legitimate Exodus wallet, focusing on the two most recent versions of Exodus.
    Crucially, even if victims removed the pdf-to-office package from their systems, the software for these Web3 wallets would remain compromised. This means that the redirecting of cryptocurrency to the attackers' wallet would continue unabated.
    “To entirely eradicate the malicious trojanized files associated with the Web3 wallets, users would need to remove the wallets from their systems entirely and then perform a fresh installation,” ReversingLabs concludes.
    In the broader context, North Korea's Lazarus group has been systematically targeting crypto developers through npm supply chain attacks in a meticulous and sophisticated global scheme aimed at stealing both funds and sensitive data.
    

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11. Rising Threat: The ‘Drainer-as-a-Service’ Model in Crypto Hacking

    Cybercriminals have recently advanced their tactics by offering "drainer-as-a-service" (DaaS), enabling the rental of crypto-stealing malware for as little as $100. This shift marks a significant change in how digital theft is conducted, making it increasingly accessible to those with only basic knowledge of cybercrime techniques.
    According to a report released by the crypto forensics company AMLBot on April 22, the landscape for crypto hackers has transformed dramatically. Slava Demchuk, the CEO of AMLBot, elaborated that the skills once necessary for conducting such operations are now within reach for anyone familiar with fundamental cyber principles.
    Online Communities Transforming Novices into Hackers
    Online forums serve as breeding grounds for aspiring scammers, where seasoned criminals share their expertise. Novices in phishing can easily transition into crypto drainers, thanks to various tutorials available within these communities.
    Some DaaS collectives exhibit such confidence in their activities that they openly advertise their services, even establishing booths at industry conferences. Demchuk pointed to examples like CryptoGrab, highlighting that in specific regions, particularly Russia, such activities face minimal legal repercussions. Hacking incidents that do not target local or post-Soviet victims often go unpunished.
    The cybersecurity community has long recognized the protective measures in place in these areas. Previous reports have indicated that many types of malware, such as ransomware and information stealers like Typhon Reborn v2, are designed to shut down if they identify system settings from Russia or nearby territories.
    The Growth of DaaS and Phishing Networks
    DaaS operations flourish within phishing networks, which are widespread across clearnet forums, darknet platforms, and even Telegram groups. Developers are often scouted through job advertisements in semi-open Telegram channels, specifically looking for Russian-speaking programmers who can write scripts to drain Web3 wallets.
    Investigation by AMLBot revealed job postings for malware aimed at platforms like Hedera (HBAR), underscoring an active hunt for technical talent in specialized online communities.
    The influx of drainers has caused considerable financial damages—according to Scam Sniffer, an astonishing $494 million was reported stolen through these schemes in 2024, reflecting a 67% rise from the previous year.
     
    Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky also documented a notable increase in darknet forums focused on drainer tools, jumping from 55 in 2022 to 129 in 2024.
    While Telegram was once viewed as a safe space for cybercriminals, its recent information-sharing initiatives with law enforcement have raised concerns. As a result, many offenders have transitioned back to the Tor network, where maintaining anonymity is considerably easier.
    Financial Losses from Crypto Hacks in Q1
    In the first quarter of 2025, the crypto industry suffered a staggering loss of $1,635,933,800 across 39 hacking incidents, according to the blockchain security platform Immunefi. This quarter is noted as the most damaging in the history of the crypto sector regarding hacking.
    Most losses were attributed to two major hacks at centralized exchanges. Phemex faced a deficit of $69.1 million in January, while Bybit incurred an enormous loss of $1.46 billion in February. The total losses during this period marked a 4.7-fold increase compared to Q1 2024, where hackers stole $348,251,217.
    Experts suspect that the notorious North Korean Lazarus Group is responsible for the two largest attacks, having stolen a staggering $1.52 billion, which accounts for 94% of the total losses during this quarter.
    

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12. article Close Call: Hacker Attempts to Breach XRP Ledger Security

    A significant threat to the XRP Ledger was recently thwarted when a hacker attempted to exploit a developer’s access token, potentially leading to extensive security issues within the crypto ecosystem.
    The vulnerability was unveiled by Charlie Eriksen, a researcher at Aikido Security. This flaw could have given rise to a widespread supply chain attack spanning the cryptocurrency landscape.
    Exploitation of Developer Access
    According to Aikido Security, the perpetrator accessed a developer’s Node Package Manager (NPM) token, subsequently publishing compromised versions of xrpl.js, the official JavaScript library essential for interacting with the XRP Ledger.
    With more than 140,000 downloads weekly, this library is integrated into hundreds of thousands of applications and websites, heightening concerns about the possible scope of the security breach.
    “This could have been catastrophic,” Eriksen cautioned in a security update, stating that the vulnerability theoretically enabled attackers to steal private keys, jeopardizing crypto wallets and user funds.
    The malicious code was discovered on April 21, when Aikido’s monitoring system flagged five suspicious package versions.
     
     
    Fortunately, major platforms associated with XRP, including Xaman Wallet and XRPScan, confirmed they were not impacted by the attack.
    The threat was confined to third-party applications that might have installed compromised versions—specifically v4.2.1 through v4.2.4 and v2.14.2—during a brief period before the issue was resolved.
    In response, the XRP Ledger Foundation acted promptly, deprecating the affected versions and issuing a patched update, v4.2.5. They urged all developers utilizing xrpl.js to upgrade immediately.
    The foundation reassured users that the core XRP Ledger codebase and its GitHub repository remained secure since the vulnerability was limited to the external JavaScript library.
    While the identity of the hacker is still unknown, Aikido Security has indicated they are investigating potential leads.
     
     
     
    Market Resilience Despite Challenges
    In the face of these security concerns, XRP prices displayed remarkable resilience, climbing by 8.5% in the last 24 hours amid a broader rally across the cryptocurrency market.
    A New Chapter in Ripple Labs’ Legal Battle
    In a related development, the long-standing legal battle between Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has concluded, representing a pivotal moment in cryptocurrency regulation.
    Back in December 2020, the SEC initiated a lawsuit against Ripple Labs, asserting that the company had engaged in an unregistered securities offering by selling XRP tokens, which allegedly raised over $1.3 billion.
    Ripple strongly disputed these allegations, maintaining that XRP is a digital currency rather than a security.
    In July 2023, U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres issued a mixed ruling: while she concluded that sales of XRP to institutional investors violated securities laws, she found that sales made on public exchanges did not.
    As a result, Ripple was fined $125 million.
    In March 2025, Ripple and the SEC reached a settlement agreement. Under the terms of this settlement, Ripple will pay $50 million of the imposed fine, with the remaining $75 million refunded to the company. Both parties also agreed to withdraw their respective appeals, effectively concluding the litigation.
    

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13. article SEC Ends Prosecution Against Richard Heart, Founder of Hex

    In a notable development, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) confirmed it will not refile charges against Richard Schueler, commonly known as Richard Heart, the creator of Hex, PulseChain, and PulseX.
    In a letter dispatched to New York District Court Judge Carol Bagley Amon on April 21, SEC attorney Matthew Gulde stated that the agency would not submit an amended complaint after the court previously dismissed the case.
    Judge Amon had dismissed the SEC's initial complaint on February 28, citing a lack of jurisdiction, as Heart’s activities were deemed not sufficiently directed at American investors.
    SEC Chooses Not to Pursue Further Action
    Despite being granted a deadline extension to refile the case by April 21, the SEC opted to abandon the lawsuit entirely.
    Heart took to social media to express his triumph over the decision, proclaiming that he, along with Hex, PulseChain, and PulseX, had “defeated the SEC completely.” He articulated that this outcome provided a measure of regulatory clarity that is rarely seen in the cryptocurrency arena.
    Heart emphasized that, unlike other cases where the SEC has withdrawn voluntarily, his situation was distinctive as it showcased a definitive win for the cryptocurrency community, with all claims against him dismissed in court.
    He framed this victory as a triumph for open-source software and cryptocurrency innovation, highlighting concerns that the SEC controversially targeted software code in its lawsuit.
    The SEC initially lodged complaints against Heart in July 2023, accusing him of engaging in unregistered securities offerings through HEX, PulseChain (PLS), and PulseX (PSLX). According to the regulator, Heart had amassed over $1 billion by marketing these tokens as a path to extraordinary wealth.
    In April 2024, Heart responded by disputing the SEC’s jurisdiction, arguing that his residency outside the U.S. placed him beyond the regulatory scope. The SEC countered this by pointing to his promotional endeavors within the U.S., including a particular event held in Las Vegas.
    Adding to Heart’s legal challenges, Interpol issued a Red Notice in December 2024, seeking his arrest in Finland due to allegations of tax evasion.
    U.S. Court Dismisses SEC’s Case
    Recently, a U.S. district court dismissed the SEC’s lawsuit against Heart, ruling that the agency did not possess jurisdiction over his purported activities. The judge remarked that the supposed misconduct took place through digital wallets and cryptocurrency platforms, which showed no clear connections to the United States.
    The SEC had categorized Hex (HEX), PulseChain (PLS), and PulseX (PLSX) as unregistered securities in its complaint.
    Despite this recent legal success, HEX has faced difficulties in the market, having declined 76% from its December 2024 peak of $0.031, influenced by a general downturn in altcoin performance amid Bitcoin's dominance.
    Furthermore, Finnish authorities recently seized approximately $2.6 million worth of luxury watches that Heart allegedly left behind. He is wanted in Finland for purported tax evasion and assault charges, and authorities have been struggling to determine his current location.
    

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14. article Trump Media & Crypto.com Launch $250 Million ‘America-First’ Digital Asset ETF Suite

    On April 22, Trump Media and Technology Group announced a significant partnership with Crypto.com and Yorkville America Digital to create a suite of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) aimed at integrating digital assets with traditional U.S. investment sectors.
    These funds, branded under the Truth.Fi label, will offer investors exposure to both digital currencies and U.S.-focused industries like energy. The availability of these funds will be facilitated through Foris Capital US LLC, the broker-dealer division of Crypto.com, pending necessary regulatory approvals.
    Trump Media Ventures into Financial Products Through ETF Agreement
    This arrangement builds on a preliminary agreement made in March, with Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP providing advisory services for the structuring and launch of the funds.
    The partnership reflects Trump Media's broader strategy to delve into the financial services arena. Devin Nunes, CEO of Trump Media, remarked, “This agreement marks a significant advancement in diversifying TMTG’s offerings into financial services and digital assets. We are pleased to collaborate with esteemed partners, Crypto.com and Yorkville America Digital, and are eager to introduce ETFs for investors interested in both the American economy and the potential growth of digital assets.”
    Kris Marszalek, CEO of Crypto.com, referred to the deal as “a testament” to the company’s ability to bridge the gap between cryptocurrency and traditional financial infrastructure. Troy Rillo, CEO of Yorkville, noted that the funds would embody the firm’s America-first investment strategy.
    Crypto Platforms Embracing Traditional Financial Roles
    The initiative also includes plans for the parallel rollout of separately managed accounts. Trump Media has indicated its intention to invest in these products using internal funds managed by Charles Schwab, with a financial commitment of up to $250 million.
    This effort positions Trump Media to capitalize on the increasing institutional and retail demand for regulated digital investment opportunities. It exemplifies how politically affiliated enterprises are beginning to integrate financial services with digital tools as launching pads.
    By aligning digital assets with an “America First” investment philosophy, this fund suite seeks to resonate with investors’ sentiments, providing thematic exposure that reflects their beliefs. Furthermore, it showcases the evolving role of crypto infrastructure in supporting broader financial goals. With platforms like Crypto.com stepping into distribution roles traditionally occupied by established brokerages, new pathways are being developed that could bypass conventional financial institutions entirely.
    

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15. article IOTA Set to Launch Major Rebased Protocol Upgrade in Two Weeks

    IOTA, the layer-1 blockchain network, is gearing up to implement a significant upgrade known as the Rebased Protocol on May 5, 2025. This upgrade marks a historic shift as the network transitions from the Stardust framework to the innovative IOTA network.
    The development team asserts that the upcoming Rebased Protocol will represent the blockchain's "largest, most intricate, and most crucial upgrade to date." Several key features of the protocol are highlighted, promising immediate benefits upon launch.
    Among the notable enhancements is the Mysticeti consensus protocol, which aims to achieve exceptional scalability and rapid transaction speeds, facilitating a throughput of over 50,000 transactions per second and finality times under 500 milliseconds.
    Another pivotal change is the integration of smart contracts based on the Move programming language directly into the layer-1 network. This advancement will empower developers to create sophisticated, scalable, and secure decentralized applications (dApps). The IOTA network will be the third to implement the Move Virtual Machine (MoveVM), following similar offerings from Sui and Aptos.
    Additionally, the Rebased upgrade will introduce minimal transaction fees through an adaptive fee-burning mechanism. The new IOTA Gas Station feature will enable developers and businesses to cover transaction fees for their users, allowing them to conduct transactions without needing IOTA tokens.
    Furthermore, the network will evolve into a fully decentralized delegated Proof-of-Stake (DPoS) system, starting with 50 permissionless validator slots and expanding to over 150 slots over time. The initial validators for the IOTA Rebased Genesis include a range of organizations such as the IOTA Foundation, IOTA Ecosystem DLT Foundation, and several others.
    This upgrade follows a comprehensive process of governance voting, technical testing, and audits. During a governance vote in December, the IOTA community expressed strong support for the Rebased protocol upgrade proposal, confirming the shift from layer-1 to a Move-based object ledger.
    The migration to the new IOTA Rebased protocol is heralded as a significant milestone in the project’s journey, positioning it for increased adoption and new applications. The upgrade aims to attract institutional investors and even entire countries to its tokenization platforms, trade digitization services, trade finance, and digital identity solutions.
    IOTA also plans to enhance its Web3 ecosystem with advanced applications, including DeFi protocols, on-chain order book exchanges, supply chain solutions, and stablecoins.
    As for market performance, IOTA currently trades at $0.1727, having increased by 1% in the last day and 6% over the week. However, it has seen a decline of 6% over the past month and a significant 29% decrease year-on-year. The cryptocurrency's all-time high stood at $5.25 in December 2017, reflecting a staggering drop of 96.7% since then.
    

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16. article Sam Altman's Worldcoin: Iris Scans, Crypto, and Now in the US!

    Sam Altman's ambitious cryptocurrency project, World, which utilizes iris scanning technology, has officially arrived in the United States. This marks a significant expansion for the controversial but intriguing initiative, which has been operational in select international markets for some time. The US launch, announced on Wednesday, follows a period of addressing regulatory considerations and privacy concerns related to the collection of biometric data.
    World's core concept revolves around creating a unique digital identity for individuals by scanning their irises with specialized devices called "orbs." This process generates a unique "IrisCode," designed to prevent duplicate registrations and verify human identity in the digital realm. The project aims to combat online fraud and bots by providing a secure, verifiable form of identification.
     
    To encourage adoption and participation, World is offering incentives for users who undergo the iris-scanning process. Individuals who scan their eyes at a World orb are eligible to receive 16 Worldcoin (WLD) tokens. Furthermore, those who have already registered with the World app can claim a "pioneer grant" of 150 WLD. The WLD cryptocurrency can be managed, transferred, and traded within the dedicated World wallet app. The app also includes a private chat service allowing users to send WLD or other digital currencies.
    Taking a significant step towards bridging the gap between cryptocurrency and traditional finance, World is collaborating with Visa to introduce a debit card. This innovative card will facilitate the conversion of WLD into fiat currency at the point of sale, making Worldcoin much more practical for everyday transactions.
    The iris-scanning procedure itself is designed to be quick and efficient, taking approximately 30 seconds to scan a user's face and iris and generate their unique IrisCode. This streamlined process helps ensure that each individual can only register once. World orbs are being rolled out at various physical locations across several major US cities, including Austin, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Nashville, Miami, and San Francisco. To enhance accessibility and portability, the company has also developed a smaller version of the orb, the "orb mini," which resembles a smartphone.
    The World wallet app is also undergoing expansion, with plans to incorporate over 150 mini-apps, including one from the prediction market Kalshi. Strategic partnerships with prominent companies such as Stripe, Match Group (the parent company of Tinder), and the gaming platform Razer are set to integrate Worldcoin into a wider range of platforms and services, further increasing its utility and reach.
    Sam Altman co-founded World in 2019, initially under the name Worldcoin, with the ambitious vision of establishing a decentralized global identity system. The core idea was to leverage iris scans and blockchain technology to create a more trustworthy and secure digital ecosystem by providing users with a verifiable identity. As more World orb locations become available across the US, more people will have the opportunity to register and claim their free WLD tokens, potentially expanding the reach of this unique project.
    

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17. article Trump: Crypto is America's Shield Against Chinese Dominance

    Former President Donald Trump has once again voiced strong support for cryptocurrencies, framing their adoption as a crucial strategic move to prevent China from gaining a dominant position in emerging technologies. He views the crypto space as a vital arena for the United States to maintain its technological edge and counter potential Chinese control.
    Speaking on Sunday evening upon returning to the White House from Palm Beach, Florida, Trump stated, "I’m a big fan of crypto because I want to keep it away from China." These remarks come amidst intensified technological competition between the US and China, particularly concerning advancements in areas like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other innovative fields.
     
    Trump highlighted the relatively recent but rapid growth of the cryptocurrency sector, describing it as "a whole new thing that started, you know not so long ago." He expressed clear concern that China's increasing technological influence could extend into the cryptocurrency realm unless the US actively works to prevent it. He cautioned, "I’m very much in favor of crypto because otherwise China is going to take it over."
    Under his previous administration, in January, a crypto task force was established within the SEC. This task force was specifically aimed at streamlining regulatory processes for the cryptocurrency industry, a move intended to encourage innovation and expansion within the sector.
    Furthermore, Trump appointed David Sacks, formerly the COO of PayPal, to the key position of AI & Crypto Czar. This role was intended to focus on developing a clear and comprehensive regulatory framework for the crypto space, something the industry has consistently advocated for.
    China's increasing interest in cryptocurrency, particularly its development of a state-backed digital yuan, has raised alarms in Washington. Many experts believe that Beijing's growing efforts in digital currency could grant China unprecedented influence over global financial systems. Consequently, Trump's public endorsement of cryptocurrency is seen by some as a symbolic act of resistance against China's expanding ambitions in this critical area.
    Trump's comments also reflect a broader concern about potential Chinese dominance in industries deemed crucial to the global economy. He has frequently criticized China's assertive strategies in fields like artificial intelligence, 5G technology, and now, explicitly, cryptocurrency. His stance suggests a belief that fostering a strong domestic cryptocurrency ecosystem is essential for the United States to remain competitive and secure its economic future.
    

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18. article Solana Squashes Critical Bug: Privacy Tokens Secured

    The Solana Foundation has successfully patched a significant vulnerability within its privacy-focused token system. This flaw, if exploited, could have potentially allowed malicious actors to generate fraudulent zero-knowledge proofs, leading to unauthorized creation of tokens or illicit withdrawals of funds.
    The vulnerability was brought to light on April 16th through a GitHub advisory published by Anza, a development team focused on Solana. The advisory included a working proof-of-concept demonstrating the potential exploit. Engineers from Anza, along with teams from Firedancer and Jito, quickly verified the issue and began working on a solution, as detailed in a post-mortem released on Saturday.
    At the heart of this security gap was the ZK ElGamal Proof program, responsible for validating the zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) used in Solana's Token-22 confidential transfers. These token extensions are designed to enhance transaction privacy by encrypting token balances and utilizing cryptographic proofs to confirm the validity of transfers without revealing sensitive details like amounts or recipient addresses.
    However, a crucial algebraic element was found to be missing from the hashing process used in the Fiat-Shamir transformation. This is a standard technique that converts interactive proofs into non-interactive ones suitable for blockchain verification. This oversight created a potential opening that sophisticated attackers could have exploited to craft fake proofs that the on-chain verifier would mistakenly accept as legitimate. Such a scenario could have enabled the unauthorized minting of tokens or the withdrawal of funds from wallets without proper permission. It's important to note that this vulnerability did not impact standard SPL tokens or the main Token-2022 logic.
     
    Prompt action was taken to address the issue. Private patches were rapidly distributed to validator operators on April 17th. A second patch was subsequently released later the same day to fix a related concern. External security firms including Asymmetric Research, Neodyme, and OtterSec reviewed the fixes to ensure their effectiveness. By April 18th, the majority of validators had successfully implemented the necessary patch. According to Solana's post-mortem analysis, there is currently no evidence to suggest that this flaw was ever exploited, and all user funds are reported to be safe.
    In other positive news for the network, Solana has emerged as a frontrunner in blockchain revenue during the first quarter of 2025, surpassing notable competitors such as Ethereum and BNB Chain. This achievement represents a significant milestone for the high-speed blockchain and is attributed to a surge in user engagement and the continued expansion of its ecosystem. The increase in network revenue was fueled by heightened activity in decentralized applications (dApps), non-fungible token (NFT) transactions, and overall on-chain interactions. Solana's scalable architecture and competitive transaction fees continue to attract both developers and users, making it a preferred platform for applications requiring high throughput. Its growth has been further bolstered by ongoing upgrades, strategic partnerships, and strong momentum in key sectors like decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and mobile crypto applications. These developments have solidified Solana's reputation as a high-performance, user-friendly blockchain with a promising outlook for the remainder of 2025.
    

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19. article $330M in Stolen Bitcoin Laundered Through Monero, Fueling XMR Price Surge

    A significant sum of approximately $330.7 million in Bitcoin, believed to be stolen, has been laundered through various instant cryptocurrency exchanges, leading to a sharp increase in the price of Monero (XMR). The incident, brought to public attention by blockchain investigator ZachXBT, began with the transfer of 3,520 Bitcoin from a potentially compromised wallet to an address known for suspicious activity.
    The individuals involved in the laundering process rapidly moved the funds across more than half a dozen exchanges. During this movement, substantial amounts of Bitcoin were converted into Monero, a cryptocurrency specifically designed for privacy and known for its difficult-to-trace transactions.
    The sudden spike in demand for Monero caused its price to surge by 50%, reaching a multi-year high of $329. While the price has since adjusted, the token is currently trading around $267.03, still reflecting a significant gain of 16.3% over the past 24 hours, according to data from CoinGecko.
     
    Data from Coinglass indicates that short positions exceeding $1 million were liquidated during this rapid price increase, adding further upward pressure to Monero's value.
    Monero's price rally also coincided with growing anticipation surrounding its upcoming EP159 and EP160 upgrades. These proposed technical enhancements aim to make Monero more "compliance-friendly" by allowing users to prove the validity of transactions without revealing private details. Analysts speculate that this development could potentially pave the way for Monero's relisting on major exchanges like Binance and Coinbase, particularly in light of Europe's new MiCA regulations which address cryptocurrency markets.
    It's worth noting that other cryptocurrencies focused on privacy, including Zcash (ZEC), Dash (DASH), and Decred (DCR), also experienced notable price increases during this period.
    Despite the enhanced anonymity offered by privacy tokens like Monero, the National Bureau of Investigation in Finland has reportedly made significant headway in tracing XMR transactions as part of their investigation into the criminal trial of Julius Aleksanteri Kivimäki. Kivimäki is accused of hacking a private mental health firm's database and demanding ransom payments in cryptocurrencies.
    Last year, prosecutors presented evidence of a crypto trail that allegedly led to Kivimäki's bank account. The alleged hacker had reportedly demanded 40 Bitcoin, valued at approximately 450,000 euros at the time, as ransom to prevent the exposure of patient records belonging to over 33,000 individuals from the psychotherapy service provider Vastaamo. When the ransom was not paid, Kivimäki is accused of targeting individual patients.
    Finnish police claim that the hacker received payments in Bitcoin, sent the funds to an exchange that did not comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, converted them into Monero, and subsequently transferred them to a dedicated Monero wallet. The funds were then reportedly sent to Binance, exchanged back into Bitcoin, and moved to various other wallets. Local authorities have maintained confidentiality regarding the specific details of their on-chain analysis methods.
    

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20. article Is TRON Finally Achieving Unmatched Reliability? An In-Depth Look at Its 99.7% Block Production Rate

    The TRON blockchain network has long been recognized for its impressive speed and security features. Recent data from CryptoQuant, published on May 6, highlights a remarkable milestone: TRON's block creation process maintains an astonishing 99.7% efficiency relative to the expected output of 28,800 blocks daily.
    This near-perfect rate underscores TRON’s robust infrastructure, showcasing its capacity to process transactions swiftly and reliably. Such consistency indicates that the network has evolved significantly since the more unpredictable days of 2020–2021, when fluctuations and occasional disruptions in block production were more common.
    What Does This Mean for TRON’s Future?
    The stable and high rate of block generation suggests that TRON has matured into a dependable platform, capable of supporting a wide array of decentralized applications and financial transactions without interruption. The network’s ability to minimize fluctuations reflects ongoing improvements in its architecture and governance.
     
     
    The Role of Super Representatives in TRON’s Success
    A crucial element behind TRON’s impressive throughput is its Super Representative (SR) system. Operating under the delegated proof-of-stake (DPoS) consensus mechanism, SRs are responsible for validating and producing blocks.
    As of 2025, the network maintains a consistent set of 30 active SRs, with 24 of them accounting for approximately 3.71% of total block production. This distribution closely resembles the setup from 2020, when 34 SRs were active, 17 of which produced a similar share of blocks.
    The Dynamic Composition of SRs
    Although the number of SRs has remained relatively stable, their identities have shifted over time. CryptoQuant reports that about 68% of SRs active in 2020 (23 out of 34) are no longer part of the current pool in 2025. During this period, 19 new SRs have been introduced, illustrating a merit-based and competitive system that encourages active participation and decentralization.
    This continuous rotation among SRs emphasizes TRON’s commitment to a transparent and inclusive governance model. Instead of a small, fixed group dominating the network, new stakeholders regularly earn their place through community support and voting, fostering a healthy, democratic environment.
    Why This Matters
    The combination of a high, consistent block production rate and a dynamic, meritocratic SR system positions TRON as a highly secure, efficient, and decentralized blockchain platform. It demonstrates that the network is not only performing well but also evolving into a resilient ecosystem capable of supporting long-term growth.
    Additional Insights and Future Outlook
    As TRON continues to enhance its infrastructure and governance, it sets a new benchmark for operational dependability in the blockchain industry. Its capacity to maintain near-perfect uptime, coupled with a transparent and merit-based leadership model, makes it an attractive choice for developers and investors alike.
    In conclusion, TRON’s recent achievements highlight its potential as a high-performance network that balances scalability, decentralization, and security. With ongoing developments, it is poised to remain a prominent player in the blockchain space for years to come.
    

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21. article Cyberattack Unveils Nearly 60,000 Bitcoin Addresses Tied to LockBit Ransomware Syndicate

    A significant security breach has exposed critical internal data of the notorious LockBit ransomware organization, revealing almost 60,000 Bitcoin addresses linked to its operations. The attack involved hackers infiltrating LockBit’s dark web infrastructure, defacing affiliate control panels, and leaking sensitive information to the public.
    The Details of the Breach
    Discovered on May 7, 2025, this cyber intrusion targeted LockBit’s underground servers, resulting in the defacement of affiliate management portals and the release of a comprehensive database containing internal records. The hackers left a provocative message: “Don’t do crime CRIME IS BAD xoxo from Prague,” along with a downloadable MySQL database file named paneldb_dump.zip.
    Initially brought to public attention by threat actor ReyXBF, cybersecurity specialists quickly analyzed the breach, uncovering a significant amount of data about LockBit’s operational infrastructure.
    According to a report from Bleeping Computer—which is linked in this — the leaked information includes extensive details about LockBit’s ransomware setup. Most notably, it contains nearly 60,000 unique Bitcoin addresses associated with the group.
     
     
    
    What Do These Addresses Represent?
    These Bitcoin addresses are believed to be linked to ransom payments from victims. Each address typically corresponds to a specific victim, helping LockBit divide and hide the flow of illicit funds. Despite this, LockBit’s operator, known as “LockBitSupp,” has confirmed the breach but claimed that no private keys or additional sensitive data were compromised.
    The leak also includes detailed logs of ransomware builds created by affiliates, which cover technical configurations used in different attacks. Furthermore, over 4,400 chat logs reveal negotiations between LockBit operatives and victims, providing insight into ransom negotiations.
    Credentials and Technical Vulnerabilities
    Among the leaked data are login details for 75 administrators and affiliates, with passwords stored in plaintext, posing a serious security risk. The method used to breach LockBit remains uncertain, but similarities to a recent attack on the Everest ransomware group suggest a common attacker or technique.
    Notably, the server was running PHP 8.1.2, which is known to be vulnerable to CVE-2024-4577, a critical security flaw that could have allowed remote code execution—potentially providing the attacker with full control over the server.
    Impact and Law Enforcement Response
    This breach marks a turning point for LockBit, which has already faced significant setbacks from global law enforcement actions. The 2024 Operation Cronos, led by the U.S. Department of Justice, Europol, and other agencies worldwide, resulted in the disruption of LockBit’s infrastructure, arrest of several members, and the freezing of more than 200 cryptocurrency accounts tied to the group.
    In early 2024, authorities seized key websites and negotiation panels used by LockBit, and recovered over 1,000 decryption keys. These keys are now being distributed to victims to help restore access without paying ransom fees.
    One of the group's leading developers, Rostislav Panev, was apprehended in Israel and is awaiting extradition to the United States. He is accused of creating malware and other tools for LockBit, receiving over $230,000 in cryptocurrency. His defense claims ignorance about the full extent of the group's activities, but law enforcement considers him a central figure.
    The Broader Threat
    Since its inception in 2019, LockBit has targeted over 2,500 victims across 120 countries, extorting more than $120 million worldwide. The leak of such extensive operational data could have severe consequences, potentially allowing authorities and cybercriminals to trace and dismantle parts of the group's infrastructure further.
    The Future Outlook
    This incident underscores the ongoing risks posed by ransomware gangs and the importance of cybersecurity vigilance. It also demonstrates how leaks can serve as both a blow to cybercriminal organizations and valuable intelligence for law enforcement agencies. As more data is analyzed, we can expect continued efforts to track and disrupt these malicious networks.
    

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22. article Dubai Embraces Cryptocurrency Payments: Partnership with Crypto.com to Modernize Government Transactions

    Dubai is taking a significant step toward becoming a fully digital city by partnering with the global cryptocurrency platform Crypto.com to facilitate crypto-based payments for government services. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s ambitious vision to transform its financial ecosystem and promote a cashless society.
    Strategic Move Toward a Digital Future
    The official agreement was announced during the Dubai Fintech Summit on May 12, marking a pivotal moment in Dubai’s broader strategy to eliminate cash from public transactions. The city aims to have 90% of all financial dealings conducted through cashless methods by 2026, a goal supported by the Dubai Department of Finance (DOF). This move is designed to streamline payments, enhance security, and position Dubai as a leader in financial technology innovation.
     
    
     
    How Will the Crypto Payments Work?
    Once operational, residents and organizations will be able to settle government fees using cryptocurrencies via Crypto.com’s digital wallets. These payments will be automatically converted into the local currency, dirhams, before being transferred to government accounts. This process simplifies transactions and encourages wider adoption of digital currencies within the public sector.
    Official Statements and Future Outlook
    Amna Mohammed Lootah, head of digital payment systems regulation, emphasized that Dubai’s goal is for digital transactions to dominate both public and private sectors by 2026. She expressed confidence that this partnership will significantly accelerate Dubai’s cashless transformation.
    While the government has not yet specified which cryptocurrencies will be accepted, indications suggest the use of stablecoins—cryptocurrencies tied to stable assets like fiat currencies—to ensure transaction stability and security.
    Emerging Trends in Dubai’s Cryptocurrency Ecosystem
    Recently, Dubai has seen several notable developments in the crypto sphere. Notably, three major Abu Dhabi institutions, including the emirate’s sovereign wealth fund, announced plans to launch a dirham-pegged stablecoin on April 28. This move is expected to further solidify Dubai’s position as a hub for innovative financial solutions.
    A Growing Fintech Ecosystem
    Dubai’s push toward a cashless society was first unveiled in October 2024, revealing that 97% of government payments in 2023 were already digital. The city projects that its digital economy could grow by over 8 billion dirhams (approximately $2.1 billion), driven by the expansion of fintech services and technological advancements.
    Ahmad Ali Meftah, the executive director of the DOF’s central accounts sector, highlighted that ongoing efforts are focused on creating a regulatory environment that promotes innovation while maintaining high standards of security and compliance in digital financial transactions.
    Dubai’s Crypto-Friendly Environment
    Known for its progressive stance on cryptocurrencies, Dubai hosted the Token2049 conference in April 2024, attracting leading blockchain and crypto professionals from around the world. Additionally, the government is exploring blockchain technology for real estate, with a recent pilot project aimed at tokenizing property assets.
    Global Trends and Comparisons
    Dubai’s initiatives mirror similar moves worldwide. For instance, in the United States, a New York lawmaker introduced legislation in April to permit state agencies to accept crypto payments, reflecting a growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in government operations globally.
    Conclusion
    Dubai’s collaboration with Crypto.com marks a remarkable milestone in the city’s journey toward digital transformation. By integrating cryptocurrencies into everyday government services, Dubai is setting a precedent for other cities seeking to modernize their financial systems and embrace the future of digital finance.
    

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23. 🚨 ZKsync Token Under Attack: Fake SEC Probe Causes Panic and Price Drop🚨

    False Accusations Spark Market Disruption as Hackers Target X Accounts
    In a deliberate attempt to manipulate the crypto market, the official X (formerly Twitter) accounts of ZKsync and its development team at Matter Labs were hacked on May 13. The attackers published false claims that U.S. financial authorities — including the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) and the Treasury Department — were investigating the project.
    These misleading messages were posted alongside phishing links, which appeared to promote fake airdrops. The ZKsync community was warned not to click on any links shared during the breach.
     
     
    Motivation: Crash the Token
    The fabricated SEC announcement appeared designed to intentionally tank the value of the ZKsync token (ZK) by creating fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD). According to CoinGecko, the token dropped by 2% within the hour of the false message going live, and over 6.4% in 24 hours, currently trading around $0.073.
    Hack Timeline: Not the First Breach
    This isn't ZKsync’s first run-in with attackers. Back on April 15, a hacker accessed the admin credentials of ZKsync’s airdrop contract and exploited a mint function to generate 111 million ZK tokens, valued at nearly $5 million at the time. Interestingly, the perpetrator returned 90% of the tokens, claiming 10% as a “bounty.”
    Official Statement and Recovery
    Lynnette Nolan, Head of Communications at Matter Labs, confirmed to Cointelegraph that the fake posts were quickly removed and both X accounts are now secure and fully under control. She indicated that the breach may have occurred through compromised delegated access, which allows limited third-party posting rights.
    Context: SEC and Crypto Probes
    Although the SEC has investigated crypto firms like Crypto.com, Immutable, OpenSea, and RobinHood Crypto, most of these probes were closed without further action, especially under the previous U.S. administration. Such regulatory actions are typically publicly disclosed by the companies themselves.
    That’s why this attack was so convincing — it mimicked real SEC announcements, making the misinformation seem authentic.
    Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale for Web3
    This incident is a sobering reminder of how critical account security is in the crypto space. Social engineering and phishing attacks continue to grow more sophisticated, and even major platforms are not immune.
    To stay safe:
    Avoid engaging with suspicious links, especially airdrop announcements
    Verify news through multiple trusted channels and official sites
    Use wallet/browser security tools that flag phishing domains
    

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24. article 📉 Bitcoin Dips After US-China Tariff Truce — Here's What Really Happened📉

    Investors Turn to Stocks as Trade War Tensions Ease
    Bitcoin (BTC) hit a local high of $105,720 on May 12, marking its best price in over three months. However, just as quickly, it tumbled to $102,000, catching traders off guard. The drop came right after the United States and China announced progress on a potential tariff reduction agreement, sparking confusion over why Bitcoin, a traditionally independent asset, responded negatively to seemingly positive news.
    According to Yahoo Finance, the deal involves a 90-day suspension of import tariffs. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent added that the truce could be extended if both nations continue constructive negotiations. Discussion points reportedly include "currency manipulation," "steel dumping," and semiconductor export restrictions.
    Risk-On Mood Hurts Bitcoin’s Safe-Haven Appeal
    Over the past month, Bitcoin gained 24%, while S&P 500 futures rose 7% and gold remained flat. With macroeconomic conditions improving, investors are flocking back to stocks, pushing Bitcoin aside as the go-to risk hedge. Currently, Bitcoin’s 30-day correlation with equities sits at 83%, indicating the crypto asset is behaving more like a tech stock than a store of value.
    Another key factor: Bitcoin’s market cap has now exceeded both silver and Google, positioning it as the sixth-largest tradable asset globally — a status that puts more pressure on its market behavior.
    Whale Activity Raises Eyebrows
    From May 5 to May 11, investment firm Strategy acquired an additional 13,390 BTC. Together with BlackRock, Strategy now controls 1.19 million BTC, or roughly 6% of all Bitcoin in circulation. This concentration of holdings has some market watchers concerned that a few major players could be propping up prices.
    Critics like Peter Schiff argue that if Strategy’s average purchase price rises too high, it may be forced to offload some BTC to cover debt obligations. Still, Strategy recently doubled its capital limit, raising $21 billion via stock issuance and another $21 billion in debt, making a near-term selloff unlikely.
    The Bigger Picture: Macroeconomics in Play
    While crypto headlines dominate trader conversations, the real story behind Bitcoin’s dip may lie in the macroeconomic shift. With tariffs easing, stocks are benefiting from higher expected earnings, drawing capital away from assets like Bitcoin and gold. In fact, gold dropped 3.4% on May 12 as investors ditched traditional safe havens.
    The US Dollar Index (DXY) also surged to a 30-day high, historically showing an inverse correlation with gold — and by extension, Bitcoin. Despite a 0.3% GDP dip in Q1 and a 6.1% spike in pending home sales, confidence in the economy remains high, fueling demand for equities.
     
    
     
    Will Bitcoin Fall Below $100K?
    The outlook isn’t entirely bearish. Between May 1 and May 9, U.S.-based Bitcoin ETFs saw inflows of $2 billion, signaling strong institutional demand. The fact that Bitcoin held most of its 24% monthly gains suggests this rally isn’t retail-driven hype but rather strategic accumulation.
    While some analysts warn of a short-term "technical sell-off" below $100K, the broader trend appears healthy — with investors rotating based on shifting economic expectations rather than fear or doubt.
    

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25. article 🚀 TRON Overtakes Ethereum: A New Leader in Stablecoin Transfers🚀

    In 2025, TRON has quietly but decisively become the dominant force in stablecoin transactions, outpacing Ethereum in both volume and usage. According to recent data from CryptoQuant, TRON now moves an astounding $23 billion in USDT every day—more than double Ethereum’s daily average.
    TRON has emerged as a preferred network for Tether (USDT) due to three simple yet crucial advantages:
        Minimal transaction fees
        Near-instant confirmations
        Global accessibility, especially in developing regions
    These factors have made TRON more than just a blockchain; it has evolved into a global payments backbone, with over 283 million USDT transfers processed so far in 2025 alone.
    USDT Migration: Ethereum Loses Its Crown
    A major shift has occurred in the stablecoin ecosystem. For the first time ever, TRON now hosts the majority of all USDT in circulation—surpassing $75.8 billion in supply, while Ethereum trails behind with a declining share.
    In just the past year, TRON saw a 27% surge in its USDT supply, adding around $16 billion to its total. Ethereum, once the leading stablecoin network, now holds just 49% of the supply, with other blockchains contributing a mere 1.5%.
    This significant realignment shows that users and developers are increasingly choosing TRON for its speed and cost-effectiveness, while Ethereum shifts toward high-value DeFi and institutional use cases.
    TRON's Daily Transfer Volume: A New Benchmark
    Perhaps most striking is the transfer volume. TRON processes over $23.4 billion in daily USDT transactions—more than double Ethereum’s $10.5 billion, which has declined 37% since its peak in late 2024.
    This signals a broader change in how blockchains are used:
    Platform    Daily USDT Transfers    Focus
    TRON    $23.4B    Retail, high-volume payments
    Ethereum    $10.5B (and falling)    DeFi, smart contracts
    Ethereum’s strength in DeFi is undeniable, but for everyday payments, TRON has become the undisputed champion.
    More Than USDT: TRON’s Expanding Ecosystem
    While USDT remains the cornerstone of TRON’s transaction volume, other tokens are gaining traction:
        Wrapped TRX (WTRX): ~2.5 million transfers
        PayNet Coin: ~1.3 million transactions
        USDD: ~427,000 moves
    These figures underscore TRON’s evolution into a comprehensive payment and DeFi ecosystem.
    Unlike Ethereum, which often prioritizes complex smart contracts, TRON is optimizing for speed, simplicity, and scalability—especially for micropayments and cross-border transfers.
    TRON vs. Ethereum: Transaction Gap Widens
    TRON now facilitates around 2.4 million USDT transactions per day, compared to Ethereum’s 284,000. The difference is staggering and reflects TRON’s intentional design as a high-throughput, low-cost network for real-world transactions.
    This transformation isn’t just a technical win—it’s a market strategy, and it’s working.
    Final Thoughts: A New Era in Blockchain Utility
    TRON’s rise isn't accidental. With consistent performance, ultra-low fees, and a laser focus on payments, it has positioned itself as the backbone of retail crypto transactions globally.
    Whether it’s peer-to-peer transfers, remittances, or business payments, TRON is increasingly the network users trust. Ethereum remains a powerful platform for complex applications, but TRON now owns the stablecoin space.
    

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