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Former U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to launch his own coin, which is set to take place on Wednesday. While some people speculated that it might be a cryptocurrency, Trump’s project is more of a traditional product than a digital asset.

 
New Coin to Support Presidential Campaign
Donald Trump, who is running for the presidency of the United States again, announced the launch of a new coin to raise funds for his election campaign. The project, titled "Silver Medallion First Edition President Trump," aims to distribute physical silver to Americans who support his political vision and want to see him back in office. Although many of his supporters expected Trump to release a cryptocurrency, this new coin is something entirely different.
 Launch of Limited Edition Coin
Trump announced that the coin will be sold for $100 each through the website RealTrumpCoins.com. The coin will be made of 99.9% pure silver and will only be available in a limited edition. One side of the coin will feature Donald Trump’s likeness, while the other side will display the White House accompanied by the phrase "In God We Trust."
 This coin is expected to be one of several activities that Trump undertakes to secure the necessary funding for his campaign ahead of the upcoming presidential elections in the U.S. The coin comes at a time when Trump is actively seeking new ways to bolster his campaign and ensure he has the resources he needs. He stated that this silver coin is the "ONLY OFFICIAL coin" he has designed and that was minted in the U.S. under his leadership.
 Cryptocurrency Expectations Unfulfilled
In recent months, several meme coins featuring themes related to Donald Trump have appeared in the market, capitalizing on his popularity. However, Trump has distanced himself from these unofficial tokens and emphasized during the introduction of his silver coin that:
"I’ve seen a lot of coins using my beautiful face, but they’re not official. RealTrumpCoin.com is the only place to purchase the official Trump coin."
 At first glance, Trump’s announcement of a new official coin might seem related to cryptocurrency, as many of his fans have been expecting him to introduce a digital asset. For instance, last week, 84% of bettors on the Polymarket platform believed that Trump would come out with his own cryptocurrency. This anticipation was fueled by the launch of the World Liberty Financial project, which was speculated to potentially include an official Trump cryptocurrency.
 World Liberty Financial and the True Purpose of the Coin
The World Liberty Financial project does contain a token called WLFI, but this token lacks the key characteristics of a classic cryptocurrency as many had envisioned. Although WLFI has been presented as a type of digital asset, it is not the classic cryptocurrency that Trump fans hoped for. While speculation continues regarding whether Trump will eventually come up with his own cryptocurrency project, the silver coin remains his current official product and focuses more on traditional investment in precious metals.
Thus, Trump continues to favor physical, tangible assets rather than joining the wave of digital assets that currently dominate the financial world.
Trump's fondness for cryptocurrencies.
Donald Trump also commented on the Fatty token before the presidential campaign. #Fatty caught Trump's attention because one of the characters in the game mimics Donald Trump, and they are also counting on Don's participation in their new video clip. The first episode featured UFC Champion Jiří Procházka and world-famous beauty contest winners. Fatty.io is still in presale, and it is expected to be one of the best launches of this period.
Notice:
,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

The UK is once again at the center of a heated debate over the role of cryptocurrencies in politics. On January 11, 2026, the chairs of seven parliamentary committees submitted a joint letter urging the government to consider a total ban on cryptocurrency donations to political parties. This bold move reignited concerns around transparency and foreign influence in election financing.
Lawmakers warn that crypto donations threaten transparency and traceability. Liam Byrne, chair of the Business and Energy Committee, emphasized that crypto can obscure the real source of funds, enable small fragmented donations to dodge disclosure rules, and expose British politics to foreign interference. The letter also highlights how modern technology makes regulatory enforcement much harder.

Labour and Ministers Acknowledge the Risks – But Legal Action Still Lacking
The idea of banning crypto donations isn’t new. Back in July 2025, Labour’s Patrick McFadden admitted the government was already evaluating the issue. Now, however, pressure is mounting, with cross-party officials raising alarms about threats to election integrity.
Several UK ministers agree the risks are real — particularly around tracking crypto origins — but admit that technical and legal complexities could prevent the ban from being included in the upcoming Electoral Law package.

Reform UK Under Fire After £9M Crypto Donation from Tether Investor
Tensions peaked in December 2025 when the Electoral Commission revealed that Reform UK had accepted a crypto-linked donation worth £9 million (around $12 million) from crypto investor Christopher Harborne, who owns a 12% stake in Tether.
Although the donation itself was reportedly made in fiat currency, its origin raised serious questions. Both the Labour Party and Liberal Democrats launched internal investigations into whether the gift breached any political finance laws.

Crypto Donations Under Scrutiny as UK Develops Broader Regulatory Framework
The controversy comes as the UK works to establish a comprehensive crypto regulatory regime. In December, Parliament passed a law recognizing cryptocurrencies as property, and the government aims to regulate digital assets like traditional financial instruments by 2027.
Lawmakers now warn that crypto donations could be used to bypass transparency rules and erode public trust. The push for a total ban shows just how seriously British officials are taking the intersection of technology, politics, and democracy.

Summary
As the UK shapes its crypto rules, the proposal to ban all political crypto donations underscores the growing unease around digital assets and election integrity. With public pressure rising, the coming months may prove pivotal for how Britain handles this modern political risk.

#Tether , #UK , #CryptoRegulation , #DigitalAssets , #CryptoNews

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,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

Following the dramatic arrest of former president Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2026, during a military operation and his extradition to the United States, Venezuela is facing even harsher sanctions and deeper economic collapse. Yet amid the chaos, Tether’s stablecoin USDT continues to fuel the country’s oil trade and everyday payments for millions of citizens.
Despite hyperinflation, shattered trust in the national currency, and a failed banking system, USDT has become an essential survival tool.

State Oil Giant Uses Tether to Evade Banks and Sanctions
The country’s main oil company, Petróleos de Venezuela, started using USDT to handle oil transactions after U.S. sanctions blocked access to traditional banking systems. Instead of wire transfers, buyers now send USDT through digital wallets, often using OTC brokers or setting up dedicated addresses for oil payments.
According to economists, this system allows Venezuela to:
🔹 Keep oil exports running despite banking restrictions

🔹 Track payments more transparently via blockchain

🔹 Maintain records even without a functioning financial infrastructure
Today, 80% of oil revenues are received in cryptocurrency, mainly USDT.

U.S. Authorities Track Wallets – Tether Joins the Effort
But the public nature of blockchain also drew the attention of U.S. law enforcement, which began tracking wallets tied to the oil trade. Tether reportedly cooperated and helped freeze wallets associated with suspicious transactions.
Investigators allegedly used these records to uncover how Maduro’s regime moved illicit funds, adding further pressure on the Venezuelan government.

USDT Becomes a Daily Currency for Venezuelans
While the state uses USDT for strategic trade, ordinary citizens turned to the stablecoin out of necessity.
After more than a decade of hyperinflation, the bolívar lost nearly all of its purchasing power. Wages couldn’t keep up with rising prices, and savings evaporated within days.
As faith in the bolívar collapsed, people began turning to USDT for:
🔹 Storing their savings in stable form

🔹 Receiving remittances from abroad

🔹 Daily transactions — groceries, bills, transport

USDT Used for Rent, Haircuts, and Repairs – Just Like Cash
Venezuelans now use Tether as a full replacement for their national currency. USDT is accepted for:
– Rent

– Haircuts

– Cleaning and gardening

– Home repairs

– Groceries and services
Small businesses and service workers trust USDT more than the bolívar, seeing it as safer and more reliable.

Peer-to-Peer Wallets Replace Banks – Communities Self-Educate
Despite the lack of clear crypto regulation, communities in Venezuela began sharing knowledge on how to use digital wallets:
🔹 How to install wallet apps on phones

🔹 How to send/receive USDT securely

🔹 How to avoid scams and high fees
Venezuelans didn’t adopt crypto because of tech enthusiasm — they adopted it because they had no other choice.

Petro Failed. Stablecoins Keep the Economy Running
The government once launched its own oil-backed digital currency, Petro, but it failed due to lack of public trust. In contrast, USDT – unaffiliated with the regime – earned wide acceptance.
Other factors like strict capital controls further forced citizens to seek alternatives. With limited access to cash or bank withdrawals, cryptocurrencies became a financial escape route.

Analysts: Stablecoins Are Keeping Poor Families Alive
Experts now agree:
Without USDT, many Venezuelan families would be completely excluded from the economy
Stablecoins bypass restrictive controls that hit regular people the hardest
A digital wallet is now a survival tool in a broken financial system

#USDT , #Tether , #CryptoNews , #Stablecoins , #venezuela

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,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

According to the latest 2026 Crypto Crime Report from TRM Labs, illegal crypto activity reached a staggering $158 billion in 2025, up 145% from the $64.5 billion recorded in 2024. This marks a new all-time high in illicit blockchain flows.
TRM noted that this dramatic rebound came after years of steady decline. From $85.9 billion in 2021, criminal crypto volumes dropped to $73.3 billion by 2023 — only to skyrocket again in 2025.

The Paradox: More Crime in Dollars, Less Crime in Percentage
TRM’s data reveals a twist: the percentage of illegal activity is actually shrinking.
In 2025, illicit transactions made up just 1.5% of known crypto flows, down from 1.7% in 2024 and 3.5% in 2023. Likewise, only 2.7% of inbound funds went into flagged wallets, compared to 2.9% the year before and 6.0% in 2023.
This means the market is growing faster than the criminals — but they’re still handling more money than ever before in raw numbers.

Russia Leads the Way — One Token Alone Moved $72 Billion
TRM identified Russia-linked addresses as the dominant players in the 2025 illicit crypto ecosystem.

🔹 Token A757 processed $72 billion in dirty money

🔹 Wallet cluster A7 received an additional $39 billion
Combined, they accounted for over 80% of all sanction-related volume.
Key actors include Garantex, Grinex, and the A7 network, with a spotlight on a ruble-backed stablecoin called A7A5. According to TRM, this token is central to Russia’s long-term strategy to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar and build an independent payment infrastructure.

Stablecoins Take Over — Criminals Are Getting Smarter
TRM found that 95% of all funds entering sanctioned wallets came through stablecoins — a clear sign of tactical adaptation.
Today’s bad actors avoid major exchanges and instead use smaller, riskier platforms, private deals, and stealthy transaction tools.

In fact:

🔹 In 2020, this type of off-chain service moved about $123 million

🔹 By 2025, that number ballooned to over $103 billion
They now rely on OTC brokers, underground banking networks, Asian crypto casinos, and money mules to move huge sums of stablecoins into the regulated financial system.

Venezuela, China, and the Darknet — Where the Dirty Money Goes
TRM also highlighted cases where governments themselves use crypto to bypass sanctions.

🔹 In Venezuela, authorities reportedly rely on crypto to keep state functions running, from payroll to remittances — because banks are frozen.

🔹 In China, underground escrow services support fraud, money laundering, and cybercrime with little oversight.
Meanwhile, darknet markets for illegal goods and services grew by 20% year-over-year.

Enforcement Gets Faster — and TRM Updates Its Tracking Model
TRM emphasized that the spike in identified crime is not due to smarter criminals, but to faster enforcement.
The Beacon Network, a collaborative international platform, now lets investigators cross-reference wallets, transactions, and patterns in real time. The result: dirty wallets are flagged much faster.
Even stablecoin issuers have joined the effort. TRM notes that Tether has actively blocked wallets tied to terrorism, fraud, and hacking, which explains the surge in flagged stablecoin transactions.

New Methodology: Real Risk vs. Fake Volume
TRM has also changed how it measures risk. Previously, illegal crypto was calculated against total blockchain volume, but that included bots, wash trades, and internal exchange shuffling — inflating the numbers and hiding the truth.
Now, TRM compares illicit flows only to real, usable capital — money entering or exiting licensed VASPs (crypto exchanges, payment providers, etc.).

This shows the true criminal exposure — how much real money ends up in bad actors' hands.
They also removed:

🔹 Wash trading

🔹 Peel chains

🔹 Internal wallet loops
These activities create false movement without adding capital. They're now filtered out of the dataset.

$158 Billion May Just Be the Beginning
TRM calls its numbers conservative estimates. The report excludes:

🔹 Fiat crimes that later entered crypto

🔹 Unaudited or off-chain wallets

🔹 Full money laundering cycles
Moreover, investigations are ongoing. As more wallets are unmasked and sanctions updated, the real number could rise significantly.
Their final warning:

➡ Crypto crime is no longer a fringe issue. It's a fast-evolving, globally scaled threat.

#CryptoCrime , #BlockchainSecurity , #CryptoRegulation , #russia , #CyberSecurity

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,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

China has taken a bold step into the global satellite race, directly positioning itself against companies like SpaceX and its Starlink network. According to Shanghai Securities News, the Chinese government submitted a request to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) late last year, seeking radio frequencies and orbital slots for more than 200,000 satellites.
If realized in full, this would become the largest satellite network ever conceived. Although the request doesn’t guarantee all satellites will launch, space industry experts say one thing is clear: China is making satellite internet a national strategic priority.

New Innovation Institute Driving the Ambition
At the heart of this megaproject is the newly established Radio Innovation Institute, launched on December 30, 2025, in the Xiong’an New Area. This government-backed initiative aims to optimize frequency use and accelerate China’s satellite internet industry.
The institute brings together seven founding institutions:

🔹 State Radio Monitoring Center

🔹 China Satellite Network Group Co., Ltd. – the country’s main satellite internet operator

🔹 Xiong’an Administrative Committee and Hebei’s Department of Industry and IT

🔹 Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics

🔹 Beijing Jiaotong University

🔹 China Electronics Technology Group Corporation
This “national team” model blends public, academic, and industrial expertise to build the future of space-based Chinese internet infrastructure.

Over a Dozen Satellite Constellations in the Works
The submitted applications cover more than a dozen different satellite groups. Some will consist of just a few dozen satellites, but others are massive.
The two largest networks — CTC-1 and CTC-2 — each include 96,714 satellites. Both filings came from the Radio Innovation Institute.
Other companies are contributing too:

🔹 China Mobile submitted plans for 2,520 satellites under the name CHINAMOBILE-L1

🔹 Yuanxin Satellite proposed 1,296 satellites for its SAILSPACE-1 system

🔹 Guodian Gaoke plans 1,132 satellites for its TIANQI-3G constellation
This mix of government-backed and commercial entities shows that China is embracing a hybrid public-private model for satellite development.

A Filing Isn’t a Launch: The Real Work Lies Ahead
Experts caution that filing with the ITU is just the beginning. China still faces significant technical, manufacturing, and financial hurdles. It currently lacks the full capacity — in rockets, production lines, and capital — to execute a project of this magnitude.
Still, the Radio Innovation Institute could play a key role in speeding up development. By combining national resources, leveraging China’s massive domestic market and strong industrial base, and coordinating state-level efforts, the institute might help China narrow the gap with SpaceX, which already has thousands of operational Starlink satellites providing global internet.

Can China Really Catch Up to Starlink?
The big question: Can China turn this vision into reality? Success will depend on multiple factors, including:

🔹 Long-term state funding

🔹 Engineering breakthroughs in satellite manufacturing and deployment

🔹 Effective cooperation with other nations through the ITU to resolve frequency and orbital slot conflicts
The space-based internet race is now fully underway. And with this filing for 200,000 satellites, China has made it clear: it wants to become a dominant player in the future of global connectivity.
Only time will tell whether this ambition becomes reality — or whether Western competitors will continue to lead the charge.

#china , #starlink , #technews , #SpaceX , #worldnews

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,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

A shocking twist in Washington: U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is now at the center of a criminal probe over a ballooning renovation budget that soared from the original $1.9 billion to $2.5 billion. According to anonymous insiders familiar with the matter, the Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation, and Powell is directly implicated.

Criminal Probe Targets Alleged Misleading Testimony to Congress
The investigation is being led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C., and reportedly received approval in November from federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro. Its aim is to determine whether Powell intentionally misrepresented the costs and details of the renovation during his testimony before Congress.
While it remains unclear whether a grand jury has been convened or if official subpoenas have been issued, Powell’s team has already been contacted and asked to submit documents — triggering a media storm and growing pressure on the White House, which has so far declined to comment.

Trump Demands Powell’s Resignation
Sources close to the Trump administration report that the president has expressed ongoing dissatisfaction with Powell’s leadership at the Fed, particularly regarding the costly renovation project. The first formal complaint reportedly arrived in July 2025, when Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, sent a letter to Powell raising “serious concerns” about his management of both the Federal Reserve and the renovation effort.
According to the 2025 budget documents, the increased costs stem primarily from rising prices in construction materials, especially in HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems. The Fed insists the budget merely reflects market conditions, not mismanagement.

Powell Responds: “This Is Political Pressure”
On Sunday, January 11, Powell publicly confirmed that the Federal Reserve had received grand jury subpoenas. In a written and video statement, he called the investigation an unprecedented action with broader political motives.
“No one — certainly not the chair of the Federal Reserve — is above the law,” Powell said. “But this investigation is part of a broader pattern of threats and pressure coming from the administration aimed at influencing monetary policy.”
He warned that criminal charges are being used as a weapon to sway the Fed’s decisions on interest rates, which he said are based on economic data — not the president’s agenda. “The real question is whether the Fed can continue to set interest rates based on facts and public interest, or whether monetary policy will be hijacked by political intimidation.”

Trump Has a Replacement Ready
President Trump has already stated that he has a replacement lined up to take Powell’s role once his term ends in May 2026. Although the name has not been made public, betting markets like Polymarket currently show Kevin Hassett, head of the National Economic Council, as the leading candidate.

Powell’s Crisis Sparks Nationwide Debate
The legal battle surrounding the Fed chair has sharply divided public opinion and rattled investors. Some accuse Powell of misleading Congress and mishandling public funds, while others see him as a victim of political bullying. Regardless of how it ends, one thing is certain: the independence of America’s central bank is now at the heart of an intensely politicized struggle.

#Fed , #JeromePowell , #USPolitics , #interestrates , #FederalReserve

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,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

U.S.-based crypto exchange Coinbase is heading toward a direct confrontation with lawmakers. If the new crypto legislation restricts its ability to pay rewards to customers holding stablecoins, the company is threatening to withdraw its support for the bill entirely. That could derail or delay one of the most significant regulatory efforts for digital assets in the country.
The bill — expected to be unveiled Monday and debated Thursday in a Senate committee — aims to set clear rules for digital assets. But Coinbase insists that the regulation of rewards should be limited to transparency requirements, not outright bans or heavy restrictions.

Banks Want Limits — Coinbase Defends Open Market Competition
The draft bill includes proposals that would allow only licensed financial institutions to offer interest or yield on stablecoins, a move strongly supported by traditional banks. They argue that rewards offered by crypto exchanges draw deposits away from bank accounts and undermine their lending capacity.
Coinbase has applied for a federal trust charter, which could eventually give it permission to offer such rewards under stricter oversight. But the company also wants crypto platforms to retain the ability to offer these services without being required to obtain full licensing, warning that tighter rules would hurt fair market competition.

What’s at Stake: $1.3 Billion and USDC’s Market Dominance
For Coinbase, this is more than a matter of principle. Stablecoin rewards are a major source of revenue, especially during bear markets.
In partnership with Circle, the issuer of USDC, Coinbase earns a share of the interest income generated from the underlying reserves. Coinbase promotes USDC actively and currently offers customers a 3.5% yield on holdings through Coinbase One.
If new laws shut down this offering, users may move their stablecoins elsewhere, and according to Bloomberg, Coinbase could lose up to $1.3 billion in annual revenue from this segment.

GENIUS Act Didn’t Solve the Problem — Banks Are Still Pushing Back
The GENIUS Act, passed in July 2025, bans stablecoin issuers from paying interest directly, but still allows external partners like Coinbase to offer rewards based on account balances.
Banking groups say that this loophole diverts deposits away from local banks and weakens access to credit for small businesses, students, and farmers.
“Crypto exchanges aren’t FDIC-insured, don’t offer loans, and don’t take responsibility — but they’re siphoning off our customers,” banks argue.
Coinbase counters that stablecoin rewards help protect the dollar’s global dominance. Chief Policy Officer Faryar Shirzad pointed out that China has already begun testing interest-bearing digital yuan, signaling future global competition.

Trump’s Administration Backed Crypto — but the Bill Is Stalling
Trump’s second term has been crypto-friendly. The GENIUS Act brought the first nationwide rules for stablecoin issuers, prompting even traditional financial firms — and Trump’s own family — to rush into the market. The USD1 stablecoin, launched by World Liberty Financial, debuted just before the law came into force.
Despite this, the broader crypto legislation is now hitting resistance. The battle over rewards has split bipartisan support, and Coinbase’s threat to withdraw adds real pressure to an already fragile process.
Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Nathan Dean now estimates that the likelihood of passing the bill before June 2026 has dropped below 70%.

Seeking Compromise: Regulation Might Become Selective
One compromise under discussion would allow only federally chartered or licensed institutions to offer stablecoin rewards.
Five crypto firms have already secured preliminary approval from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to become national trust banks — but traditional banking groups strongly oppose this, claiming it undermines the purpose of a charter and poses systemic risks.
Even if restrictions pass, industry insiders believe crypto firms will find new workarounds.
“There’s no world where we can’t reward users for actions inside apps,” said William Gaybrick, president of technology and commerce at Stripe. “If you’re holding stablecoins in an app, that app will find a way to credit you — one way or another.”

Conclusion: Lawmakers Trapped Between Dollar Stability, Banks, and Crypto Innovation
Congress is now caught between pressure from the White House, economic lobbying from crypto companies, and resistance from traditional banks — and the clock is ticking.
Whether lawmakers can deliver a balanced bill that protects consumers, fosters innovation, and preserves the dollar’s strength, remains uncertain.

#coinbase , #Stablecoins , #USDC , #DigitalAssets , #CryptoRegulation

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,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

After months of silence, the fight over how crypto will be regulated in the United States is heating up again on Capitol Hill. The long-delayed market structure bill, known as the Clarity Act, is back on the agenda. If passed, it would provide the first real legal framework for the digital asset industry in U.S. history.
This Thursday, the Senate Agriculture and Banking Committees will hold crucial hearings to finalize and merge their sections of the bill. If successful, the consolidated version will move to the Senate floor — possibly before the high-stakes midterm elections in fall 2026.

The Clarity Act Aims to Finally Define Who Regulates What
The bill’s goal is ambitious: to create a clear and predictable environment for crypto companies, which until now have operated in a legal no-man’s-land between the SEC and the CFTC.
The bill would define:

🔹 How both agencies share oversight

🔹 Who is required to register

🔹 What types of tokens exist

🔹 What obligations apply to exchanges and brokers
With that, firms would finally know if they fall under securities laws, commodities laws — or both — and what that actually means for their operations.

The Three Flashpoints: Stablecoins, DeFi, and Trump’s Crypto Profits
Three issues are expected to dominate debate this week:

🔹 Rewards paid on stablecoins

🔹 Accountability for DeFi developers

🔹 A proposed ban on public officials profiting from crypto — specifically targeting President Trump
According to Cody Carbone from the Digital Chamber, the stablecoin issue is “the biggest unresolved problem” on the Hill. But both Republicans and Democrats have now agreed that stablecoin interest, yields, and rewards will be addressed in the bill.
Earlier this year, the Community Bankers Council warned that some stablecoin issuers are skirting last year’s GENIUS Act, which banned yield-bearing dollar-backed tokens. These schemes are now undercutting traditional savings accounts, according to critics.

DeFi Developers Fear Being Criminalized for Other People’s Crimes
DeFi is another political minefield. Developers are worried they’ll be punished if someone uses their open-source code for illicit activities like money laundering.
Attorney Amanda Tuminelli of the DeFi Education Fund says lawmakers must target people, not code. She wants to ensure that developers who don’t hold or control customer funds are not held legally responsible.
DeFi supporters are also pushing for language that affirms the right to self-custody crypto without relying on intermediaries. This language originates from the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act.

Trump’s Memecoins Stir Controversy Among Democrats
Some Democrats, led by Senator Elizabeth Warren, want the final version of the bill to ban elected officials from profiting off crypto while in office.
The push is widely seen as a response to Donald Trump, whose inner circle is linked to TRUMP memecoins, NFT collections, and other crypto ventures.
While the House removed this clause earlier this year, Summer Mersinger of the Blockchain Association says the Senate won’t let it go:

“The Senate is not going to punt on this issue.”

The Clock Is Ticking: Senate Wants to Vote Before the Midterms
On Thursday, both committees are expected to release their final draft sections. If approved, the documents will be merged into a single comprehensive bill — then sent to the Senate for a full vote.
But the legislative process may take weeks, and time is running out. With the midterms looming, failure to pass the bill before November could kill the effort entirely.
“Congress has a lot of other priorities on the table,” says Mersinger. “But right now, this is the critical window they see to get something out of committee and onto the floor.”

America Is Deciding the Future of Crypto — and the World Is Watching
This crypto market structure bill could fundamentally reshape the rules of the game in the U.S. While companies are begging for regulatory clarity, lawmakers remain divided — over stablecoins, DeFi liability, and who gets to profit from the system.
If the bill isn’t passed in the next few months, the U.S. crypto industry may remain trapped in legal uncertainty.

#CryptoRegulation , #Stablecoins , #bitcoin , #TRUMP , #CryptoNews

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,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“

The Arctic Is Turning Into the World’s Most Dangerous Geopolitical Battleground
What once sounded like a bizarre provocation now resembles an open geopolitical threat. Donald Trump has bluntly declared that Greenland will become part of the United States — willingly or by force. According to Trump, Russian and Chinese warships and submarines are already circling the island, and Washington can no longer afford to wait.
Trump argues that leasing territory is not enough. “You defend ownership, not leases,” he insists. If Denmark does not agree through the “easy way,” the United States is prepared to take the “hard way.” And increasingly, that no longer appears to mean economic pressure alone.

China Is Already Deeply Embedded in Greenland — and the West Knows It
While Trump frames the issue as national security, the real battle is unfolding beneath the ice. Greenland holds some of the world’s largest reserves of rare earth elements, essential for advanced electronics, weapons systems, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence.
Beijing is no newcomer. In 2018, China launched its Arctic strategy, declaring itself a “near-Arctic state” and promoting a Polar Silk Road. It offered scientific missions, infrastructure investments, and mining partnerships. Many projects were blocked on security grounds — but China never withdrew.
At the center of the conflict is the Kvanefjeld mine near the town of Narsaq. It contains over 11 million metric tons of rare earth resources, including 370,000 metric tons of heavy rare earths, which are critical for advanced military and technological systems.
Chinese firm Shenghe Resources already owns 12.5% of the project and signed an agreement in 2018 to manage processing and marketing.
Greenland’s minister of trade has been blunt: Western partners are preferred — but if serious money doesn’t arrive, China remains an option.
This is the nightmare scenario for Washington. Even without owning the mine, China’s global dominance in rare earth processing means it can control markets without direct extraction.

Why Billionaires, the Military, and AI All Want Greenland
Trump presents Greenland as a security imperative, but the underlying motivations go much deeper.
For years, American billionaires — including Bill Gates, Peter Thiel, Sam Altman, and Jeff Bezos — have quietly invested in AI-driven mineral exploration on the island. Concepts like a future “freedom city” have circulated since Trump’s first term.
Greenland offers something few places can:
Natural cooling for AI data centers — Arctic temperatures can cut energy costs by up to 40%.70% renewable hydropower, making large-scale AI infrastructure cleaner and cheaper.1.5 million tons of rare earth elements, ranking Greenland eighth globally.
Yes, conditions are extreme. Only 20% of the land is ice-free, and temperatures can drop below −40°F. But melting glaciers are opening new shipping routes and economic opportunities.
For the United States, this is about supply-chain survival. In 2025, China’s export controls on heavy rare earth metals crippled Western automakers and defense contractors. Since then, Washington has accelerated partnerships with MP Materials and secured deals with Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Australia. Greenland is the next strategic link.

Europe Warns: The Global Order Is Fracturing
Trump’s rhetoric has sparked outrage across Europe. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson openly stated that the U.S. should thank Denmark — not threaten it. He reminded Washington that over 50 Danish soldiers died fighting alongside U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, and warned that small nations risk being sacrificed in great-power games.
Even more alarming is NATO’s silence. The alliance has issued no clear statement defending Danish sovereignty. Secretary-General Mark Rutte has remained quiet despite pressure from Paris and other capitals. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has openly called for NATO involvement.

From Rhetoric to Reality: The Pentagon Allegedly Plans for Invasion
According to British media reports, Trump has allegedly ordered U.S. special forces to draft invasion scenarios for Greenland. The Joint Chiefs of Staff reportedly oppose the plan, warning it would be illegal and lack congressional approval.
But momentum is growing. After the January operation in Venezuela, where U.S. forces captured President Nicolás Maduro, hawks within Trump’s inner circle feel emboldened. Their argument is simple: act fast before Russia or China does.
Prediction markets now place the probability of Trump facing another impeachment at record levels — yet escalation continues.

“We Don’t Want to Be Americans or Danes — We Want to Be Greenlanders”
Greenland’s response has been unequivocal. Local leaders issued a joint statement:

“We do not want to be Americans. We do not want to be Danes. We want to be Greenlanders.”
MP Aaja Chemnitz called Trump’s threats “absolutely shocking,” saying, “You cannot buy another country, a people, or the soul of Greenland.”
Privately, however, European officials admit their options are limited. As Stephen Miller bluntly put it: “No one is going to fight the United States over Greenland’s future.”

A Weak Economy Makes Greenland Vulnerable
Greenland’s economic fragility only strengthens Washington’s leverage. Growth has slowed to 0.8%, the population of 56,699 is shrinking rapidly, and by 2050 it is expected to fall by 20%. Fisheries are declining, state dividends have dried up, and government liquidity reached critical levels in late 2025.
This mix of strategic value and economic vulnerability makes Greenland an ideal pressure point.

“I Don’t Need International Law”
Trump has made his position unmistakably clear. He dismisses Denmark’s historical claims and openly states that international law does not concern him.
“I don’t need international law. I have my own morality. My own judgment. That’s the only thing that can stop me,” Trump said.
And that is what makes the situation so dangerous. Greenland has shifted from an investment debate into a stress test of the global order itself.
The question is no longer whether Greenland is strategic.

The question is who takes it — and at what cost.

#TRUMP , #Geopolitics , #Greenland , #worldnews , #AI

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Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson has announced his departure from social media, sparking immediate debate among investors questioning whether his disappearance from the public eye could affect interest in Cardano’s blockchain and its native token, ADA.

From Personal Branding to Silent Mode
In a recent video message, Hoskinson explained that his high media visibility has become more of a liability than an asset. As his public profile grew, he felt that his personal opinions began to influence how people perceive not just Cardano, but also related projects like Midnight.
“I’m planning to uninstall X (Twitter) and go into silent mode,” Hoskinson said, adding that future online communication would be handled by curators and AI tools. “I have more important things to do,” he stated, signaling that social media engagement is no longer a priority for him.

Crypto Community Reacts: Is Cardano Weaker Without Hoskinson?
His decision triggered mixed reactions across the crypto space. Some supporters believe it’s a positive move that may help shift the focus away from personality-driven narratives and back to the technology and development of Cardano.
Others argue that Hoskinson’s presence and charisma played a vital role in Cardano’s growth. According to Tim Warren, host of Investing Broz, Hoskinson’s accessibility helped build a loyal following that supported ADA even during periods of public criticism and slow adoption.
“Many people invested in ADA because of his vision,” said Warren, recalling 2021, when ADA soared to all-time highs during the bull market, despite having limited real-world adoption at the time.

Could This Affect ADA?
It remains unclear what long-term impact Hoskinson’s absence may have on ADA’s price.
🔹 Skeptics worry that the loss of his voice and personal engagement could erode investor confidence, especially among retail holders who relied on his frequent updates and transparent communication.

🔹 Optimists argue that a mature blockchain project shouldn’t rely on a single individual, but rather on a strong developer ecosystem, community support, and real-world utility.
Interestingly, Hoskinson did not comment on ADA’s price or market trends, and the token continued trading in line with broader crypto markets, with no immediate reaction directly tied to his announcement.

#ADA , #Cardano , #CharlesHoskinson , #CryptoInvesting , #CryptoNews

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France is facing a disturbing trend. The country is increasingly becoming Europe’s epicenter of so-called crypto-wrench attacks — violent home invasions where the target is not a bank, but private cryptocurrency keys. The latest case from the south of the country shows just how dangerous this phenomenon is becoming.
On Monday evening, three masked attackers broke into a family home in the town of Manosque, located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region. Inside, they assaulted a woman, threatened her with a handgun, physically attacked her, and tied her up in order to obtain a single target: a USB drive containing cryptocurrency data belonging to her partner.

Weapon, Violence, and a Rapid Escape
According to available information, the attackers did not hesitate to use brute force. They slapped the woman, intimidated her with a firearm, and fled immediately after securing the USB drive. Fortunately, the victim did not suffer serious injuries, managed to free herself within minutes, and contacted the police.
The case is now being investigated by specialized units of the criminal police. The investigation comes at a time when similar attacks are rapidly increasing across France.

France as a Hub of Crypto-Related Violence
According to publicly tracked databases, more than 70 violent attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders have been recorded worldwide. Over 14 of these incidents occurred in France, making it the most dangerous European country in this category.
Experts warn that a combination of several factors creates an ideal environment for this type of crime:
🔹 High overall crime rates

🔹 A visible concentration of cryptocurrency wealth

🔹 Growing knowledge of digital assets among criminal groups

🔹 Easy identification of targets through public information
Cryptocurrencies are particularly attractive to criminals because they allow the instant transfer of large sums across borders, operate 24/7, and are often perceived as harder to trace than traditional financial systems.

Shocking Revelation: The State as a Source of Information for Criminals?
The case unfolds in an exceptionally sensitive context. It recently emerged that a French tax official has been charged with abusing access to government databases.
According to investigators, she allegedly searched for addresses, income details, and family information of individuals outside her professional responsibilities and passed this data on to criminal groups. In at least one case, this activity is believed to have preceded a violent home invasion.
The court concluded that her actions could not be justified by her job duties, which were strictly limited to corporate taxation.

A New Reality for Crypto Holders
The Manosque case reveals a harsh reality:

The greatest threat to cryptocurrency investors is no longer hackers, but physical violence.
Crypto-wrench attacks are reshaping security paradigms and forcing investors to reconsider how and where they store their digital assets. USB drives, hardware wallets, and public visibility of wealth are becoming potential liabilities — especially in environments where sensitive information can fall into the wrong hands.

#CryptoCrime , #CryptoSecurity , #CryptoNews , #DigitalAssets , #CryptoCommunity

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Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has publicly expressed support for Roman Storm, a developer of the crypto-mixing service Tornado Cash, just days ahead of a key court hearing that could have far-reaching implications not only for Storm’s fate, but also for the future of open-source software development in the United States.
Storm was convicted in August 2025, following a four-week trial, of conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmission business. His sentencing is scheduled for late January, and he faces a potential prison term of up to five years.

Buterin: Privacy Is a Foundation of a Free Society
In a public statement dated January 9, Buterin emphasized that privacy is not a marginal concern, but a fundamental pillar of modern society.
He wrote that privacy is “essential for the functioning of many parts of our society, including culture and politics, without degrading into social games or outright coercion.” He also warned that anyone who possesses personal information about others gains power over them—whether socially, commercially, or even physically.
Buterin further revealed that he had personally used Tornado Cash in the past, including for anonymous software purchases and donations to human-rights organizations.

Sentencing Nears as Key Charges Remain Unresolved
The jury failed to reach a verdict on two of the most serious charges against Storm: conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to violate U.S. sanctions. The court must now decide whether Storm will be acquitted on these counts or whether prosecutors will pursue a retrial.
All eyes are now on the January 22 hearing, which legal experts view as a potential precedent-setting moment.

Tornado Cash Caught Between Privacy Rights and Criminal Allegations
Tornado Cash entered the regulatory spotlight in August 2022, when it was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department. Prosecutors argued that the protocol facilitated the laundering of illicit funds, including assets linked to the North Korea–affiliated Lazarus Group.
However, the situation shifted in March 2025, when the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) removed Tornado Cash from its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list.
Meanwhile, co-founder Alexey Pertsev was sentenced by a Dutch court to 64 months in prison for money laundering, a ruling he is currently appealing. The third co-founder, Roman Semenov, remains at large but faces charges in the United States similar to those brought against Storm.

The Core Legal Dispute: Developer Responsibility
Storm’s defense argues that once the Tornado Cash protocol was deployed, he no longer had custody or control over user funds. Prosecutors counter that Storm knew the platform was being used by criminals and continued to profit from its operation regardless.
In a message calling for community support, Storm rejected the notion that writing code constitutes a crime. He argued that privacy tools are being wrongfully equated with money laundering and stressed that privacy is a human right, while mathematics is not a crime.
He added that the fight for his freedom—and for the future of open-source software—has reached a critical moment, urging supporters to submit letters of support to the court. Buterin’s statement was issued in direct response to this appeal.

Shifting Tone From U.S. Regulators
Storm has seen several legal and regulatory developments move in his favor amid broader political changes in the United States. Following Donald Trump’s return to office, courts and regulators have adopted a noticeably more restrained approach toward the crypto sector.
In December 2024, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that OFAC had exceeded its authority by sanctioning Tornado Cash’s smart contracts. Later, in August 2025, senior Justice Department official Matthew Galeotti informed crypto industry leaders that federal prosecutors would no longer pursue similar charges against developers of decentralized software under the same legal theory used to convict Storm.

Legal Defense Fund and Community Support
The Ethereum Foundation, together with Keyring Network, launched a joint initiative to redirect protocol fees for two months into a legal defense fund for Storm and Pertsev. The Ethereum Foundation also contributed an additional $500,000 to support their defense.

Are Crypto Developers Still at Risk?
In his letter, Buterin warned that privacy—once taken for granted in the pre-digital era—is now under serious threat.
He wrote that this is not a radical position, but rather a call to preserve protections that existed as recently as the 1950s, when people’s physical movements, conversations, and finances were not subject to constant surveillance.
Legal experts agree that the outcome of Storm’s case will carry significant implications for developer liability in the United States and is likely to become a key reference point for future cases involving cryptocurrency, privacy tools, and open-source software.

#TornadoCash , #VitalikButerin , #Ethereum , #blockchain , #CryptoRegulation

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Cryptocurrency exchange Binance has reached another historic milestone. The total number of registered users has surpassed 300 million, with the latest 100 million users added in just 18 months. This marks the fastest growth period in the platform’s history and clearly signals that cryptocurrencies are entering a new phase of adoption.
According to data from Binance Australia, it took the exchange nearly five years to reach its first 100 million users. The second 100 million followed in just over two years, while the third came in record time. As stated by Matt Poblocki, CEO of Binance Australia and New Zealand, the current pace represents more than 180,000 new users per day.

From speculation to long-term holding
The explosive growth in user numbers is accompanied by a fundamental shift in investor behavior. According to Binance, digital assets are gradually moving away from short-term speculative trading toward a long-term investment approach and broader institutional adoption.
Binance reported a 14% year-over-year increase in institutional users, alongside a 13% rise in institutional trading volume. This trend is also reflected in Bitcoin market dynamics.

Bitcoin leaves exchanges as companies and ETFs increase holdings
The amount of Bitcoin held on centralized exchanges has fallen to its lowest level in five years. Investors are increasingly moving their assets into self-custody, a typical sign of long-term conviction and confidence in future growth.
At the same time, the share of publicly traded companies and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) holding Bitcoin on their balance sheets continues to grow. According to Binance, more than 200 publicly listed companies now hold Bitcoin globally.

Half of users now identify as long-term investors
The Binance User Pulse 2025 survey, which included over 95,000 users across 48 markets, revealed a clear shift in investor mindset. Approximately 50% of respondents now identify primarily as long-term holders rather than active traders.
Key motivations include:
Portfolio diversificationCapital preservationLong-term investment goals, such as saving for a future home purchase
Australia as a case study in rapid crypto adoption
Binance is also experiencing strong growth in Australia. According to research conducted by Protocol Theory for Binance Australia, 26% of the Australian population already owns cryptocurrencies, while an additional 32% are open to investing in the future.
Trading activity in the region has focused mainly on established assets, with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana dominating trading volumes in December. This highlights a preference for more established cryptocurrencies over high-risk speculative assets.

Binance maintains up to 45% of global BTC and ETH trading volume
According to analytics firm Kaiko, Binance consistently maintains a 35–45% share of global Bitcoin and Ethereum trading volume. At the same time, the exchange safeguards customer assets worth over $170 billion, based on publicly available reserve data.

2026: deeper integration between crypto and traditional finance
Matt Poblocki expects 2026 to be shaped by deeper integration between digital assets and traditional financial markets. This shift is expected to be supported by clearer regulatory frameworks, including:
A proposed Australian Digital Assets ActImplementation of the OECD Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework

Expanding beyond crypto: gold and silver derivatives
Binance is also expanding beyond purely digital assets. This week, the exchange launched perpetual futures contracts linked to gold and silver, allowing traders to gain exposure to precious metal prices without holding physical assets.
These products operate under the supervision of the Abu Dhabi financial regulator within the ADGM regulatory framework, aiming to provide enhanced transparency and investor protection.

#Binance , #bitcoin , #BTC , #cryptotrading , #CryptoMarkets

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Iran has once again plunged into digital darkness. On Thursday, the government cut off access to the internet as mass protests erupted across the country, driven by economic collapse and the national currency’s record fall against the US dollar. As chaos grows in the nation of 92 million people, the estimated 7 million Iranians using crypto are left wondering: Can they still access their assets?
According to TRM Labs, cryptocurrency transactions in Iran totaled $3.7 billion between January and July 2025. Now, that flow is grinding to a halt. But some alternatives still exist.

Satellites, Mesh Networks, and Radio: The Crypto World's Backup Plan
1. Elon Musk’s Starlink

Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, has already come to Iran’s aid in the past. In June 2025, Musk reportedly responded to global calls and quietly activated coverage, helping Iranians reconnect. Starlink provides two-way high-speed access even in blackout zones using satellite lasers and ground relays.
2. Blockstream Satellite

Blockstream’s satellite network broadcasts Bitcoin blockchain data globally—without requiring internet access. It enables one-way reception of transaction and blockchain updates anywhere in the world, helping users stay connected to the Bitcoin network.
3. Bitchat (Bluetooth mesh messaging)

Jack Dorsey’s decentralized messaging app, Bitchat, has exploded in popularity—with over 1.4 million downloads. It works through Bluetooth mesh networks, allowing users to send transaction data between mobile phones without internet. Final confirmation, however, still requires access to the chain online.

New Tools Are Emerging: Bitcoin Without Internet Isn’t Sci-Fi
4. Darkwire (radio-powered network)

A recent innovation unveiled by pseudonymous developer Cyb3r17 in May 2025, Darkwire creates a long-range radio mesh for transmitting Bitcoin transactions and data entirely offline. Still under heavy development on GitHub, Darkwire offers a glimpse into a censorship-resistant financial future.
5. Machankura (internet-free Bitcoin in Africa)

South African developer Kgothatso Ngako built a tool in 2022 that lets users send and receive Bitcoin via classic GSM mobile networks. The service, called Machankura, uses USSD technology—the same protocol used in early mobile phones—and is still expanding in regions with limited connectivity.

What Does It Mean for the Future?
As governments increasingly weaponize internet access, the crypto community is pushing forward with resilience tools that defy centralized control. In Iran, satellite networks, mesh services, and offline radios are keeping hope alive—and ensuring people retain access to value even in total blackout.
In times of protest, censorship, and financial collapse, Bitcoin and decentralization prove their worth again. They may become even more essential in the turbulent years ahead.

#iran , #bitcoin , #starlink , #defi , #BTC

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Solana (SOL) is once again capturing investor attention thanks to renewed bullish momentum. After a brief correction from the recent high around $144, the price held strong above the $130 level — outperforming both Bitcoin and Ethereum. Bulls quickly regained control, with SOL bouncing from a local low near $132 and initiating a fresh upward movement.

Technical Breakout Signals Trend Shift
SOL managed to reclaim the $135 level and successfully broke through a descending trendline at $137, signaling a shift into a short-term bullish zone. The price also climbed above the key 50% Fibonacci retracement level of the previous move from $143 down to $132.
Currently, SOL is trading above $138 and its 100-hour simple moving average, confirming upward pressure. Immediate resistance awaits near $140, followed by key levels at $142 and $145. A successful close above $145 could open the door for further gains toward $150 — and possibly $155.

What If Resistance Holds?
Should SOL fail to break above the $140 barrier, a minor pullback may follow. The first soft support lies around $138, with stronger backing at $135. A dip below $135 could push the price down to the $132 zone. If that support breaks, SOL may decline further toward the $124 level in the near term.

Technical Indicators Show Strength
🔹 MACD (1h): Bullish momentum is increasing as the MACD moves deeper into positive territory

🔹 RSI (Relative Strength Index): Holding above 50, indicating strong buyer interest

🔹 Key support levels: $138 and $135

🔹 Key resistance levels: $140, $142, and $145

Summary:
Solana is showing signs of recovery, and technical indicators support a bullish scenario. A breakout above the $145 resistance level could trigger a stronger rally. However, traders should stay alert for potential pullbacks if the price struggles to stay above $135.

#solana , #sol , #CryptoMarket , #altcoins , #cryptotrading

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A ruble-pegged stablecoin stunned the market in 2025 by surpassing the growth of the largest dollar-based stablecoins — despite ongoing Western sanctions. The token A7A5, launched in January 2025 by A7 LLC, added nearly $90 billion to its circulating supply, overtaking both USDT by Tether and USDC by Circle.

A Russian Stablecoin with a Controversial Background
A7A5 was created as a workaround for Russian users facing banking restrictions, with traditional dollar-pegged stablecoins largely inaccessible due to international sanctions. It is issued by A7 LLC, a cross-border payments company linked to Russia’s state-owned Promsvyazbank and Moldovan businessman Ilan Shor, previously convicted in a $1 billion banking fraud case.
Despite its controversial roots, A7A5 quickly made its way to the Tron and Ethereum blockchains, where it is widely used in DeFi protocols, primarily for trading against USDT — allowing users to access liquidity without holding dollar-backed stablecoins directly.

Stronger Than the Dollar? A7A5 Dominates the Market
While Tether’s USDT added $49 billion and USDC gained approximately $31 billion in 2025, A7A5 soared by nearly $90 billion — an unprecedented rise. This occurred at a time when the Russian ruble strengthened more than 40% against the U.S. dollar, driven by strict capital controls and interventions by Russia’s central bank.

Singapore? No Obstacle
A7A5 also made headlines as a key sponsor of the Token2049 conference in Singapore. While Singapore has imposed sanctions against Russia, they apply only to licensed financial institutions — not to individuals or external entities. This loophole allowed A7A5 to appear on the global stage and expand its liquidity network.

What Does This Mean for the Market?
The rising influence of a ruble-based stablecoin highlights a shifting global financial landscape, where digital currencies are becoming tools of geopolitical strategy. Despite international pressure, A7A5 is emerging as an alternative payments bridge, leveraging the DeFi ecosystem to bypass sanctions.
This development expands the narrative of stablecoins as instruments of national monetary policy, operating outside traditional banking frameworks — and reinforces the growing role of blockchain in reshaping global finance.

#Stablecoins , #russia , #CryptoNews , #USDC , #USDT

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The year 2025 marked a historic milestone for the crypto market as stablecoin transactions soared to an unprecedented $33 trillion, reflecting a 72% year-over-year increase. Analysts attribute this growth to greater regulatory clarity and the supportive stance of the U.S. government on crypto assets.

USDC Leads the Market – Tether Close Behind

Of the total transaction volume, USD Coin (USDC) by Circle accounted for approximately $18.3 trillion, while Tether's USDT recorded around $13.3 trillion, together dominating stablecoin activity.
Stablecoins – cryptocurrencies pegged to real-world assets like the U.S. dollar or gold – are seeing rising adoption among both retail and institutional users. This trend has been accelerated by the Trump administration, which introduced crucial regulatory frameworks in July 2025 under the GENIUS Act, creating a favorable environment for stablecoin growth.

Institutions Like Walmart and Amazon Plan Their Own Stablecoins

This regulatory shift has attracted major players. Companies such as Standard Chartered, Walmart, and Amazon have all announced plans to issue their own stablecoins. Additionally, new initiatives have emerged, including USD1 by World Liberty Financial Inc., a DeFi platform with ties to the Trump family, which launched its stablecoin in March 2025.
As more companies entered the stablecoin market, the total volume of transactions surged. However, analysts noted a steep decline in the percentage of transactions conducted on decentralized platforms. This led to the conclusion that the majority of users are now utilizing digital dollars in everyday, real-world contexts rather than DeFi ecosystems.

Global Instability Drives Demand for Digital Dollars

According to Anthony Yim, co-founder of the analytics firm Artemis, people in countries experiencing inflation and political unrest are increasingly turning to stablecoins as a safe haven. These digital assets allow them to store value in dollars without relying on banks or physical cash.

USDT Tops in Market Cap, USDC Leads in Volume

Data from CoinGecko revealed that USDT by Tether remains the world’s largest stablecoin by market capitalization, reaching $187 billion in circulation in 2025. Meanwhile, USDC’s market cap stood at approximately $75 billion, but it outpaced USDT in total transaction volume.
This difference is explained by user behavior, Artemis noted. While USDT is preferred as a payment method or store of value and tends to sit in wallets, USDC is more actively used by DeFi traders who frequently move funds and rebalance positions.

GENIUS Act Strengthens Trust and Adoption of Stablecoins

The GENIUS Act was introduced to provide regulatory certainty, support innovation, and protect consumers. According to Dante Disparte, Circle’s Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Global Policy, the new framework has boosted confidence in USDC due to its liquidity, transparency, and regulatory reliability.
When asked to comment, Tether declined to respond. Meanwhile, Artemis clarified that it holds less than 1% exposure to Tether, underscoring its focus on other areas of the market.

#Stablecoins , #USDT , #USDC , #GENIUSAct , #blockchain

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The XRP market has entered a quiet yet tense phase. The price is holding just above the key $2.12 level while trading volume and volatility decrease. Many analysts see this as a possible beginning of a new accumulation phase – the calm before the storm.

Whales Retreat, Retail Investors Hold Steady
Recent data shows a noticeable slowdown in activity from major XRP holders. Since mid-December, exchange inflows from "whales" have declined, easing selling pressure. At the same time, retail investors have mostly maintained their positions – a combination that may signal market stabilization after the previous sell-off.
Intraday charts show XRP traded between $2.06 and $2.19 over the past 24 hours on the XRP/USD pair (Bitstamp). As of 7:35 PM on January 8, the price was right at the $2.12 level – a key area of support.

Technical Indicators Signal Balance with Underlying Tension
• RSI (14-day Relative Strength Index) remains neutral around 44–45

• MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) is still in negative territory (-0.038), but the flattening histogram suggests bearish momentum is fading

• XRP is trading below its 50-day MA, but above the 200-day MA – a classic consolidation signal
This setup is often interpreted as a market pause, with traders awaiting a clearer catalyst for a directional move.

Whale Data: Drop in Inflows Signals End of Distribution
A recent Cryptoquant analysis noted that large holders accounted for about 60.3% of XRP inflows to Binance over the past 30 days, but their activity has declined. While whale dominance remains notable, the downward trend suggests the end of a distribution phase.

XRP has pulled back from highs near $3.20 to current levels just above $2. Analysts note this pattern mirrors past market cycles, where whale activity peaked near local tops and faded during corrections.
Importantly, retail inflows have remained steady – indicating that the selling pressure hasn’t spread across the broader market.

The Calm Before the Breakout?
Cryptoquant’s report concludes:

“This balance between whales and retail investors may signal a transition into a new accumulation phase.”

While some indicators remain in the red, the decline in whale activity significantly reduces the risk of another sharp sell-off. The market may now be preparing for a decisive move – the only question is which direction it will take.

#xrp , #altcoins , #Ripple , #CryptoWhales , #crypto

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In a major regulatory move, China has officially declared tokenized real-world assets (RWA) illegal under its current financial legislation. A joint risk warning issued by seven major financial associations classifies RWA as a prohibited virtual currency activity, alongside stablecoins and other unauthorized digital assets. The announcement signals a strict legal crackdown on any RWA-related operations, both domestic and offshore.

Seven Financial Associations Label RWA as Unlawful
The joint statement—signed by key institutions including the Internet Finance Association, Securities Association, and the Payments & Clearing Association—emphasizes that no RWA project is authorized under Chinese law and deems the model high-risk.
RWA was defined as the issuance of tokens or debt-like certificates backed by physical assets, used for fundraising or trading purposes. The regulators warned of risks including fraud, operational failures, and excessive speculation, which compliance mechanisms cannot fully eliminate.
"No RWA activities have been approved by Chinese regulators," the statement stressed.
This is not a temporary measure or a regulatory gray area. The document ruled out any future licensing or sandboxing for RWA models, treating them as violations of the Securities Law and financial restrictions already in place.

Legal Risks for Token Issuers and Service Providers
Authorities made it clear that not only issuers, but also infrastructure providers, consultants, developers, marketers, auditors, payment processors, and even KOLs promoting RWA are legally liable.
The three primary legal violations associated with RWA are:
🔹 Illegal fundraising

🔹 Unauthorized issuance of securities

🔹 Unlawful futures trading
Even token issuance outside China will not escape liability if it involves any mainland-based operation or employee. Anyone enabling RWA distribution or marketing, even unknowingly, could face prosecution.

Offshore Entities Not Exempt If Linked to Mainland
One key highlight is the crackdown on offshore entities that operate from within mainland China. Regulators warned that even a single domestic employee supporting an RWA project could constitute a legal risk.
"Technical infrastructure providers are not exempt from legal responsibility," the document stated.
This ends the common Web3 strategy of registering entities abroad while deploying teams or services from within China.
All WeChat, Telegram, and other promotion channels are included under the enforcement scope, and any Chinese national involved in promoting RWA is now subject to legal consequences.

No Regulatory Sandbox, No Future for RWA in China
The statement leaves no room for gradual compliance or future experimentation. It makes no mention of sandbox frameworks, pilot programs, or conditional approvals.
Instead, it declares that the risks of RWA outweigh any technological benefit and aligns tokenization with previously banned crypto activities like ICOs.
Projects still promoting RWA partnerships or ambassador programs now fall under the definition of illegal operations. Regulators stress that participation in social media groups or community fundraising efforts is prosecutable.

Final Message: Technology Is Not a Legal Shield
Regulators close with a strong warning: technical complexity or structural transparency is not a legal excuse. As long as tokenization remains the core model, any such project is illegal under Chinese law.
This signals the final regulatory verdict: RWA has no viable future in China. Government policy will prioritize risk mitigation over innovation—shutting down the door on tokenized real-world assets entirely.

#RWA , #china , #Tokenization , #CryptoRisk , #BTC

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The cryptocurrency market is entering a decisive phase. Over the next 24 hours, developments could significantly impact the prices of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and the broader digital asset space. All eyes are on two major events in the United States – the Supreme Court’s decision on Trump’s tariffs and the release of new unemployment data.
There’s a lot at stake: total crypto market capitalization is hovering around $3.11 trillion, and any surprise could cause sharp market swings.

Supreme Court Ruling on Tariffs Could Shake Markets
The first key event is the anticipated U.S. Supreme Court verdict regarding tariffs imposed by President Trump in 2025. These tariffs, ranging from 10% to 50%, were introduced under the “Liberation Day” campaign and targeted a broad spectrum of imported goods.
The court will announce its decision today at 10:00 AM ET on whether these tariffs are legal. If ruled unlawful, the U.S. government may be pressured to refund part of the $600 billion already collected.
Markets are reacting nervously, as these tariffs have been viewed as a growth stimulus for the domestic economy. Overturning them could weaken investor confidence and impact both stocks and crypto assets.

U.S. Unemployment Data Under Market Spotlight
The second key event is the release of U.S. unemployment figures at 8:30 AM ET. A slight decrease is expected – from 4.6% to 4.5% – but even a tenth of a percentage point could have an outsized effect.
Higher unemployment could spark renewed recession fears. Conversely, stronger-than-expected figures may dampen hopes for interest rate cuts. At the moment, markets are pricing in just a 13% chance of a Fed rate cut in January – strong jobs data could wipe out that expectation entirely.

Bitcoin and Ethereum Options Expiry Adds Another Layer of Tension
On top of the two headline events, there’s a third factor in play – the expiration of major crypto options. At 8:00 AM UTC today, Bitcoin and Ethereum options worth more than $2.2 billion are set to expire.
For Bitcoin, the expiring contracts amount to around $1.89 billion, with the “max pain” level – the price at which the most losses occur for option holders – at $90,000. BTC is currently trading just above that level at approximately $90,975.

Ethereum options worth roughly $396 million are also expiring, with the “max pain” point at $3,100. ETH is currently trading just above that threshold at around $3,117.
With these three critical factors converging – the court ruling, jobs report, and options expiry – the next 24 hours could bring heightened volatility across the entire crypto market.

#CryptoMarkets , #bitcoin , #Ethereum , #TrumpTariffs , #BTC

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Notice:
,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“