Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

Addentax Crypto Acquisition Targets $800M in Bitcoin

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

Addentax Group Corp. (NASDAQ:ATXG), a China-based diversified business group, shocked markets with its bold Addentax crypto acquisition announcement. On Thursday, the company revealed its intention to acquire up to $800 million worth of cryptocurrencies—including as many as 8,000 Bitcoins—through a share-based deal. While the stock initially surged on the news, it later gave back most of its gains, reflecting investor uncertainty around the ambitious plan.

Still, the news marks a clear turning point in Addentax’s corporate strategy. The company is moving aggressively into the blockchain space and betting big on Bitcoin and other digital assets to reshape its financial future.

Details Behind the $800M Addentax Crypto Acquisition

The proposed Addentax crypto acquisition would involve issuing common shares to acquire a portfolio of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and potentially meme coins like the Official Trump coin. Although no formal agreement has been signed, Addentax is currently negotiating with influential cryptocurrency holders who collectively control approximately 8,000 Bitcoins.

At current prices, the proposed acquisition is valued near $800 million, making it one of the most significant crypto plays by a publicly traded Chinese company listed on a U.S. exchange.

This share-based transaction would allow Addentax to both acquire valuable digital assets and bring seasoned crypto investors into its ownership structure—potentially aligning shareholder interests with the company’s new strategic direction.

Why Addentax Is Betting on Bitcoin

CEO Hong Zhida views the acquisition as a transformative step in Addentax’s evolution. “This initiative supports the Company’s broader blockchain strategy by facilitating potential acquisitions of digital assets such as Bitcoin and introducing strategic investors with experience in the crypto ecosystem,” he said in a statement.

Zhida also pointed to the long-term value of established cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin, in particular, is seen by many as a liquid and appreciating asset—attractive qualities for companies looking to hedge against inflation and diversify their balance sheets.

Institutional interest in crypto continues to grow, and Addentax is positioning itself to benefit from this trend. The Addentax crypto acquisition could help the company tap into blockchain innovation, digital payments, and decentralized finance, all while enhancing its market profile.

Risks and Rewards for ATXG Investors

While the potential upside of the Addentax crypto acquisition is substantial, the deal is not without risks. Volatility in the crypto markets could quickly erode asset values, and issuing new stock may dilute existing shareholders.

Moreover, no definitive agreement has been reached, and regulatory scrutiny around crypto transactions—especially for cross-border public companies—remains high. The lack of clarity around the structure and timing of the transaction has already introduced some market skepticism.

However, if executed successfully, this pivot could transform Addentax from a relatively obscure microcap into a high-profile player in the digital asset world. The company is effectively trading paper—its own equity—for highly sought-after crypto assets, a move that could significantly reshape its financial standing and investor base.

The Bigger Picture: Corporate Crypto Convergence

Addentax’s move follows a broader trend of public companies integrating crypto into their corporate strategies. Firms like MicroStrategy Inc. (NASDAQ:MSTR) and Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) have made headlines for holding Bitcoin on their balance sheets. Now, Addentax aims to join that elite group with a bolder, equity-funded acquisition.

Unlike traditional investments, the Addentax crypto acquisition hinges on acquiring not just assets but also crypto industry expertise. By welcoming seasoned holders into its shareholder structure, Addentax is betting on a knowledge transfer that could boost its blockchain credibility and unlock future growth opportunities.

Conclusion: A High-Stakes Leap into Digital Assets

Addentax’s planned $800 million crypto acquisition is more than a financial maneuver—it’s a strategic pivot that reflects how public companies are embracing the digital economy. If successful, this bold bet could position (NASDAQ:ATXG) as a serious player in the blockchain ecosystem. But until the ink dries on a definitive deal, investors will be watching closely to see whether this ambitious crypto gamble pays off.

Featured Image: Freepik

Please See Disclaimer

Robinhood Canada Crypto Expansion Moves Ahead

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

Robinhood Markets Inc. (NASDAQ:HOOD) has taken a strategic leap into the Canadian cryptocurrency space with its $250 million acquisition of WonderFi Technologies Inc. The deal, which significantly boosts Robinhood’s international ambitions, is poised to reshape the Robinhood Canada crypto narrative by granting the U.S.-based trading platform a licensed and compliant entry into the Canadian market.

This acquisition includes WonderFi’s investment dealer license and $2.1 billion in assets under custody, setting the stage for Robinhood to offer regulated crypto trading to millions of Canadians.

Why WonderFi Is Key to Robinhood’s Canadian Play

WonderFi Technologies operates two of Canada’s longest-standing crypto marketplaces and is a member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO). By purchasing all of WonderFi’s issued and outstanding shares at a 41% premium—36 cents per share—Robinhood gains not only technological infrastructure but also a regulatory green light to expand in Canada.

Johann Kerbrat, Robinhood’s SVP and general manager of crypto, emphasized the importance of acquiring a compliant platform. “We want to make sure that we offer product compliance with the regulation,” he told BNN Bloomberg. He also praised WonderFi’s broad crypto offering, with over 60 assets available to trade.

This strategic move allows Robinhood to bypass the lengthy process of building a Canadian-compliant crypto platform from scratch, fast-tracking its Robinhood Canada crypto rollout.

A Regulated Pathway to Millions of Users

According to Kerbrat, the Canadian crypto market is ripe with opportunity, with nearly 19 million Canadians expected to use crypto by 2025. That figure represents about half of the country’s population, indicating a large, tech-savvy user base ready for alternative investing platforms.

By entering Canada through WonderFi, Robinhood not only gains a functioning exchange but also access to users who demand transparency and regulatory compliance—a trend accelerated by past failures in the crypto space, such as the collapse of QuadrigaCX and the global fallout from FTX.

The Robinhood Canada crypto push signals a broader shift toward legitimacy and oversight in a space often criticized for its lack of investor protection.

Robinhood’s Crypto Momentum Builds

Robinhood’s crypto division has seen renewed strength over the past two quarters. As Kerbrat noted, “The past two quarters have been really good for the crypto products and business of Robinhood.” With retail interest climbing alongside the broader crypto market recovery, Robinhood appears poised to extend that momentum north of the border.

Crypto adoption in Canada mirrors trends seen globally—where younger investors are flocking to digital assets for diversification, inflation hedging, and long-term growth. With the addition of WonderFi, Robinhood can now serve this growing demand through a regulated framework.

This also aligns with Robinhood’s broader mission of democratizing finance. The company, already a leading player in U.S. crypto trading, now has the infrastructure to replicate that success in Canada.

What This Means for Robinhood Stockholders

For investors in Robinhood (NASDAQ:HOOD), the WonderFi deal signals a growth story beyond the U.S. market. Regulatory pressure in the United States has made domestic expansion challenging, especially in the crypto space. Canada, with its clearer regulatory environment and crypto-savvy population, offers a fertile ground for expansion.

If successful, the Robinhood Canada crypto strategy could become a model for future international growth. It shows how Robinhood can scale by acquiring compliant platforms in regulated jurisdictions, mitigating risk while boosting user growth and asset flows.

Conclusion: A Bold Move into the North

Robinhood’s acquisition of WonderFi marks a pivotal step in its evolution as a global fintech leader. By entering the Canadian market through a licensed and regulated crypto platform, the company is signaling its commitment to responsible growth, user trust, and international expansion.

As Canada’s crypto market heats up, the Robinhood Canada crypto strategy could provide the company with a significant first-mover advantage—cementing its position not just as a disruptor, but as a sustainable force in the global financial landscape.

Featured Image: Megapixl

Please See Disclaimer

JPMorgan Embraces Blockchain for Tokenized Treasuries

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

In a move that could redefine the future of institutional finance, JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM) has completed its first test transaction involving tokenized treasuries on a public blockchain. The landmark trial was conducted using Ondo Finance’s testnet and Chainlink’s cross-chain communication infrastructure, pushing the bank further into the evolving world of decentralized finance (DeFi).

This marks a significant milestone in the adoption of blockchain within traditional finance, particularly as major institutions like JPMorgan look to improve payment and settlement systems using smart contract-enabled solutions.

JPMorgan’s First Public Blockchain Transaction

The trial, completed in early May, involved a Delivery versus Payment (DvP) transaction—an established mechanism in financial markets that ensures the delivery of securities only occurs if payment is made. Traditionally, DvP processes rely on fragmented systems and are prone to costly delays.

To overcome these challenges, JPMorgan used Kinexys, its internal blockchain division, to transfer digital payments across two accounts. The payment leg was matched against the asset leg—Ondo’s tokenized Short-Term US Treasuries Fund (OUSG)—on Ondo Chain’s testnet. The asset exchange and payment settlement were orchestrated simultaneously using Chainlink’s (CRYPTO:LINK) interoperability framework.

This is the first time JPMorgan has utilized a public blockchain to settle tokenized treasuries, signifying a growing comfort with decentralized infrastructure in the financial mainstream.

Why Tokenized Treasuries Matter

Tokenized treasuries are digital representations of traditional U.S. Treasury bonds and bills, issued and settled on a blockchain. They combine the safety and stability of government debt with the speed and transparency of decentralized systems.

Ondo Finance noted that traditional financial systems suffer from inefficiencies that lead to delays and settlement failures, which reportedly cost market participants over $914 billion in the past decade. Tokenization of treasuries addresses these pain points by enabling real-time settlement, reducing counterparty risk, and improving back-office operations through automation.

According to Nelli Zaltsman, Head of Platform Settlement Solutions at Kinexys, “By securely and thoughtfully connecting our institutional payments solution with both external public and private blockchain infrastructures, we can offer scalable and efficient solutions for clients.”

Institutional Interest in Public Chains Grows

The successful execution of this transaction highlights a broader trend: major financial institutions are actively exploring public blockchain networks. Traditionally cautious about DeFi due to regulatory and security concerns, banks like JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS), and Fidelity Investments are now dipping their toes into the space.

Morgan Stanley is reportedly working on a crypto trading platform for its E*Trade users, while Fidelity recently began testing its own stablecoin, signaling deeper institutional interest in blockchain-based assets.

As Sergey Nazarov, co-founder of Chainlink, stated, “It is becoming increasingly clear to the world’s institutions that they have a large addressable market in the public chain community.”

Market Reaction and Outlook

Despite the groundbreaking nature of the announcement, Ondo’s token (CRYPTO:ONDO) and Chainlink’s token (CRYPTO:LINK) both saw minor declines of around 1% on the day of the announcement, reflecting broader trends in the Real World Asset (RWA) sector, which slipped 0.7%.

Market volatility aside, the successful DvP transaction demonstrates how tokenized treasuries could become a staple of global finance. It opens the door to 24/7 markets, enhanced security, and significantly lower settlement times and costs.

The Future of Tokenized Treasuries

With more institutions experimenting with blockchain, tokenized treasuries may soon move from testnets to live production environments. If adopted widely, this could streamline capital markets and enable greater financial inclusivity.

As JPMorgan’s trial shows, tokenized treasuries are not just a concept—they’re a viable innovation ready to reshape how the world’s largest financial players operate.

With further regulatory support and interoperability improvements, tokenized finance could unlock new efficiencies, attract global participation, and transform how governments and institutions issue, trade, and settle assets.

Featured Image: Freepik

Please See Disclaimer

Bitpay’s HODL Pay Merges DeFi with Everyday Spending

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

Atlanta-based crypto payment processor Bitpay has launched a groundbreaking service called HODL Pay, offering users a way to spend stablecoins without selling their cryptocurrency holdings. With a focus on long-term investors, HODL Pay leverages decentralized finance (DeFi) to unlock liquidity while allowing users to maintain exposure to digital assets.

This new option marks a major milestone in the evolution of crypto payments by letting holders borrow against their assets to make purchases. As adoption grows, HODL Pay could become a key bridge between the crypto economy and traditional commerce.

How HODL Pay Works

At the heart of HODL Pay is a seamless integration between Bitpay and Aave, a popular DeFi lending platform. To use the service, customers must deposit crypto assets as collateral on Aave. Supported networks include Ethereum, Arbitrum, Base, Polygon, and Optimism.

Once assets are deposited, users can borrow stablecoins—like USDC or DAI—directly from the Aave platform. These stablecoins can then be used to settle any Bitpay invoice, including those for:

  • Retail purchases
  • Travel bookings
  • Gift cards
  • Bill payments

Whether shopping for everyday goods or larger items, such as vehicles, HODL Pay allows users to access funds without triggering taxable events by selling their holdings.

The Power of HODLing While Spending

The name “HODL Pay” pays homage to the popular crypto slang HODL—a misspelled version of “hold” that has come to represent long-term belief in crypto assets. For users who want to hold onto their Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), or other digital currencies, this service is a game-changer.

By borrowing stablecoins, users can tap into the value of their crypto without relinquishing ownership. This is particularly useful during bull markets, when many prefer to maintain their positions in anticipation of price appreciation.

According to Bitpay Chief Marketing Officer Bill Zielke, “With HODL Pay, Bitpay gives users an innovative way to spend confidently today without giving up their future growth.”

Global Support with No Merchant Setup Required

One of HODL Pay’s biggest advantages is its instant global availability. Any merchant already accepting Bitpay automatically supports HODL Pay—no additional setup or integration is needed.

This frictionless implementation makes the service appealing for merchants seeking to accommodate crypto-savvy consumers. Whether it’s a boutique clothing store or a luxury car dealer, businesses can now accept borrowed stablecoins as easily as they would accept Bitcoin or fiat.

For instance, Nick Dossa of Vegas Auto Gallery noted that the service provides increased flexibility for customers purchasing high-ticket items like exotic cars.

Layer 2 and the Future of Crypto Spending

As blockchain networks seek scalability, layer two (L2) solutions are gaining popularity. Bitpay’s HODL Pay is fully compatible with major L2 chains like Polygon and Arbitrum, ensuring faster, cheaper transactions.

This compatibility supports Bitpay’s broader vision of enabling Web3 payments at scale. By aligning with popular L2 networks, HODL Pay reduces transaction fees and latency, making it viable for more frequent, real-world spending.

What It Means for the Future

HODL Pay isn’t just another crypto lending tool—it’s a potential catalyst for mainstream adoption of decentralized finance. It empowers users to manage wealth strategically while benefiting from real-world utility.

As the DeFi ecosystem matures and regulatory clarity improves, services like HODL Pay could become essential components of a modern financial toolkit. Crypto users get to HODL their assets and still participate in the economy—on their terms.

As the DeFi ecosystem matures and regulatory clarity improves, services like HODL Pay could become essential components of a modern financial toolkit. Crypto users get to HODL their assets and still participate in the economy—on their terms.

Ultimately, HODL Pay reflects a shift toward practical, user-focused crypto innovation. It bridges speculative investment and real-world usability, creating more inclusive financial access. As more users seek to unlock liquidity without selling, solutions like HODL Pay will likely shape the next wave of digital finance—bringing crypto spending one step closer to the mainstream.

Featured Image: depositphotos @ zoomteam

Disclaimer

Meta Stablecoin Payments May Simplify Global Payouts

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META) appears ready to re-enter the crypto space with a fresh angle—Meta stablecoin payments targeted at microtransactions and global payouts for content creators. According to a recent Fortune report citing five anonymous sources, the tech giant is exploring stablecoins as a means to reduce transaction friction, particularly for influencers on platforms like Instagram.

This would mark the first notable crypto development at Meta since the failure of its high-profile Libra project. However, this new strategy appears significantly more modest in scope and aims to address practical payment challenges rather than overhaul global finance.

From Libra to Utility: Meta’s Crypto Reboot

The pivot to Meta stablecoin payments signals a potential course correction following the collapse of Libra—later renamed Diem. Libra aimed to launch a multi-currency-backed stablecoin and was backed by heavyweights like PayPal (NASDAQ:PYPL), Visa (NYSE:V), eBay (NASDAQ:EBAY), and Mastercard (NYSE:MA). Regulatory pressure, particularly during the Biden administration’s early crypto-skeptic phase, forced the project’s shutdown. In 2022, Meta sold the remains of Diem to Silvergate Bank.

Now, instead of taking on the global monetary system, Meta is reportedly focused on streamlining small payouts to creators across borders—one of the most practical use cases for digital currencies. Stablecoins can provide near-instant, low-cost settlement, avoiding high conversion fees and slow bank transfers, especially in emerging markets.

Stablecoin Adoption on the Rise

The timing of Meta’s renewed crypto interest aligns with growing institutional adoption of stablecoins. Payment giants like Visa and Mastercard have already begun experimenting with stablecoin integration into their networks. Visa, for instance, has conducted USDC-based settlement pilots on Ethereum (ETH), indicating growing confidence in stablecoin infrastructure.

Last month, Citigroup (NYSE:C) released a report projecting the global stablecoin market cap could grow to $3.7 trillion under bullish conditions. The forecast was tied to positive regulatory trends and increased institutional trust in blockchain-based payment rails.

For Meta, joining this wave with a utility-driven focus—like stablecoin payments for Instagram influencers—may offer a realistic path to rebuilding its crypto credibility while sidestepping the scrutiny that tanked Libra.

Ginger Baker’s Role in Crypto Push

Leading Meta’s exploration of this new initiative is Ginger Baker, the company’s VP of product who joined earlier this year. Baker brings significant experience in fintech and crypto, and her involvement suggests the company is taking a cautious but informed approach to its payment evolution.

The reported discussions with infrastructure providers remain preliminary. No specific blockchain network or service partner has been named yet, though sources say the conversations focus on small-payout use cases—likely involving USD-pegged stablecoins such as USDC or USDT.

While no formal announcement has been made, the tone within Meta seems pragmatic. CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently called the Libra project “dead” during a public discussion with Stripe’s co-founder John Collison, distancing the new plans from the failed experiment.

A Smarter, Smaller Crypto Play

The idea of Meta stablecoin payments represents a shift from ambition to application. Rather than reinventing money, Meta may simply want to make it easier to pay creators in Nigeria, India, Brazil, or Indonesia without navigating slow, expensive fiat rails.

If executed correctly, this could not only reintroduce Meta to the crypto world in a friendlier light, but also improve user retention on its creator platforms by offering faster, borderless compensation.

Whether Meta eventually scales this solution beyond creator payouts remains to be seen. For now, the strategy appears to be: stay useful, stay quiet, and avoid the mistakes of the past.

With regulators more open to utility-based stablecoin use, and stablecoins themselves becoming part of the financial mainstream, Meta stablecoin payments might just stick.

Featured Image: Freepik

Please See Disclaimer

Bitcoin Short Squeeze Sparks Massive Crypto Rally

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

A massive Bitcoin short squeeze triggered nearly $1 billion in liquidations across the crypto market Thursday, marking the largest squeeze since 2021. The sudden surge propelled Bitcoin (BTC) above the $100,000 mark for the first time in months, shaking out over-leveraged traders and reigniting bullish momentum across digital assets.

The spike came after weeks of stagnant trading, catching many short sellers off guard. Ethereum (ETH) also broke out, soaring past a key resistance level at $2,100 and contributing to widespread market volatility.

Short Sellers Burned as Bitcoin Tops $100K

Thursday’s rally was one of the most dramatic in recent memory. According to Coinglass, more than $964 million in crypto futures were liquidated within 24 hours. Of that, $834 million came from short positions—bets that prices would fall—making it the largest Bitcoin short squeeze event in over three years.

Bitcoin alone accounted for $416 million in liquidations, including one massive $11.97 million BTC/USDT position on Binance. At the height of the frenzy, Bitcoin surged past $100,000 and briefly touched $102,000 before pulling back slightly. This marks the first time Bitcoin has traded in six-figure territory since early February.

The total crypto market cap also soared, hitting $3.3 trillion, its highest level since March.

Trade Deal Sparks Risk-On Sentiment

What triggered this historic Bitcoin short squeeze? A key catalyst was a newly announced U.S.-UK trade agreement. President Donald Trump described the deal as the beginning of “more global partnerships,” a comment that appeared to boost sentiment across risk assets, including crypto.

The renewed optimism came amid an already fragile market dynamic, with many traders positioned bearishly after weeks of consolidation. The sudden bullish reversal ignited a classic short squeeze—forcing short sellers to buy back their positions to cover losses, which only intensified upward momentum.

Ethereum Joins the Breakout

Ethereum followed closely behind Bitcoin’s move, surging past $2,100 after struggling for weeks. Despite concerns over the recent Pectra upgrade and the distracting rise of meme coins, ETH managed to outperform most major altcoins.

According to Santiment, an on-chain analytics firm, the Bitcoin short squeeze also benefited Ethereum, which saw $259 million in short liquidations. The firm called the move “contrarian,” noting that the market often reverses when retail sentiment hits extremes—a pattern that played out once again.

FOMO Returns, But for How Long?

As Bitcoin’s breakout reverberates through the market, analysts warn of a potential cooldown. While optimism is high, the rally was partially fueled by retail FOMO (fear of missing out) and aggressive media coverage, both of which have historically preceded short-term corrections.

Santiment suggested that the recent price spike could mark the beginning of another speculative cycle. However, with Bitcoin above $100K and the largest short squeeze since 2021 behind us, the path forward may depend on macroeconomic developments and continued institutional support.

Market Outlook After the Squeeze

The crypto market’s recovery has reignited interest in digital assets, especially among sidelined investors waiting for a signal. Still, whether this breakout proves to be a sustained uptrend or a temporary blowoff remains to be seen.

With Bitcoin reclaiming $100,000 and Ethereum showing renewed strength, all eyes are now on the Federal Reserve, inflation data, and geopolitical headlines that could shape the next phase of this volatile market.

For now, the Bitcoin short squeeze stands as a reminder of the crypto market’s explosive potential—and its unforgiving nature for those caught on the wrong side of momentum.

Featured Image:  Freepik © starline

Please See Disclaimer

Coinbase Deribit Acquisition Shakes Crypto Sector

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) made headlines this week by announcing its $2.9 billion acquisition of Deribit, a leading crypto derivatives exchange. The Coinbase Deribit acquisition is now the largest merger in crypto history, and it signals a strategic push into the booming crypto options market. The landmark deal includes $700 million in cash and 11 million Coinbase shares, underscoring the company’s aggressive expansion beyond traditional spot trading.

In a blog post revealing the acquisition, Coinbase emphasized the significance of this move: “This isn’t just another addition; it’s foundational to our vision of creating the most comprehensive, compliant, and user-friendly derivatives platform globally.” This statement underscores how central Deribit will be to Coinbase’s future ambitions.

Deribit, founded in 2016, has become one of the world’s most trusted and liquid crypto options platforms. The firm raised $40 million in 2022 at a $400 million valuation, with backing from QCP Capital and Polybius Capital, according to Crunchbase. The Coinbase Deribit acquisition represents not only a substantial premium but also a major consolidation play in the evolving world of digital asset derivatives.

A Bold Expansion into Crypto Derivatives

Coinbase’s core business has historically centered around spot crypto trading, but declining trading volumes and tightening competition from international platforms have forced the company to diversify. By acquiring Deribit, Coinbase secures a dominant position in the high-margin crypto derivatives sector—particularly options, which have surged in popularity among institutional and professional traders.

Crypto derivatives allow traders to hedge risk, speculate on price movements, and manage volatility more efficiently. The addition of Deribit’s infrastructure to Coinbase’s compliance-forward ecosystem could help bridge the gap between crypto-native products and regulated financial markets.

This acquisition also sends a clear message: Coinbase intends to lead in every segment of the digital asset economy.

Crypto M&A Heats Up

The Coinbase Deribit acquisition is the latest in a flurry of high-value deals reshaping the crypto landscape. In recent months, Ripple Labs made waves by acquiring brokerage firm Hidden Road for $1.25 billion. Ripple, best known for its XRP token and blockchain payment technology, has seen a resurgence after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) dropped its lawsuit accusing the company of selling unregistered securities.

Kraken, another major U.S. exchange, also jumped into the M&A game by acquiring retail-focused futures platform NinjaTrader for $1.5 billion. These moves signal a shift from survival mode to expansion, particularly as expectations grow that the re-election of Donald Trump may lead to more favorable crypto regulation in the U.S.

Venture Funding Surges in Q1

M&A isn’t the only trend heating up—venture capital is flowing back into the space. According to Crunchbase, crypto and blockchain startups raised $3.8 billion in Q1 across 220 deals, representing a 138% increase over the prior quarter. That jump was largely fueled by Binance, which secured a $2 billion investment from MGX, an Abu Dhabi-based firm. It stands as the largest single investment in a crypto company to date.

The renewed investor interest, combined with consolidation among major players, paints a bullish picture for the future of crypto markets. Coinbase’s move to acquire Deribit is not just a signal of confidence in derivatives, but a sign of the industry’s next evolution: one that is institutional, global, and ready for mainstream adoption.

Looking Ahead

The Coinbase Deribit acquisition may set a new standard for how regulated U.S.-based crypto companies approach international markets. With Deribit’s stronghold in Europe and Latin America, Coinbase will gain access to new customer bases while potentially smoothing regulatory hurdles through its established compliance practices.

As crypto markets mature and global competition intensifies, this bold acquisition reflects a pivotal shift toward consolidation and strategic diversification. Whether it becomes a turning point for Coinbase—or for the crypto industry as a whole—remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the game is changing.

Featured Image: Freepik

Please See Disclaimer

Senate Clash Stalls Stablecoin Legislation Progress

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

Efforts to advance stablecoin legislation in the U.S. Senate hit a major roadblock last week as partisan tensions and conflict-of-interest concerns derailed progress on the Genius Act. The bill, aimed at creating a federal framework for regulating stablecoins, failed to secure the 60 votes needed to proceed, sending shockwaves through the cryptocurrency industry and financial markets.

Stablecoin legislation has long been seen as a necessary step toward legitimizing digital assets backed by fiat currencies. The U.S. stablecoin market, valued at over $246 billion, has grown rapidly but operates in a legal gray zone. The Genius Act, proposed by Senate Republicans and backed by Senator Tim Scott, sought to clarify that status—but Democrats raised alarms over potential risks to consumers, national security, and the broader financial system.

Why the Genius Act Failed to Advance

The Senate vote on Thursday ended with 48 in favor and 49 opposed, falling short of the threshold required to advance the legislation without a filibuster. While Republicans largely supported the bill, two broke ranks, joining a majority of Democrats in opposing the motion.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed frustration over the outcome. “I just don’t get it,” he said. “Six versions of this bill were drafted to address concerns, yet Democrats are unwilling to move forward.”

But Democratic leaders, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, were steadfast in their opposition. Warren argued that the bill “ignores basic protections that apply to every other financial product in America,” referring to its lack of consumer safeguards and regulatory oversight for issuers of dollar-backed cryptocurrencies.

The Trump Factor in Crypto Regulation

One of the more controversial issues surrounding the bill was former President Donald Trump’s involvement in the digital asset sector. Trump-affiliated companies, such as World Liberty Financial, have issued their own stablecoin, raising concerns over conflicts of interest.

While Trump’s crypto ventures were not officially cited by all dissenting Democrats, they became a focal point during Senate deliberations. Lawmakers questioned whether fast-tracking stablecoin legislation would benefit entities closely linked to Trump and his family, thereby undermining the bill’s legitimacy.

Senator Chuck Schumer and other high-ranking Democrats said the legislation lacked meaningful anti-money laundering safeguards and failed to set boundaries for stablecoin integration into the U.S. banking and payments system. Senator Ruben Gallego and eight other Democrats who initially supported the bill’s advancement later withdrew support over these concerns.

Industry Reactions and What Comes Next

Despite the failure to pass the Genius Act, the crypto industry remains hopeful. Kristin Smith, the outgoing CEO of the Blockchain Association, released a statement calling for continued bipartisan collaboration. “We look forward to next steps in this process and bipartisan discussion,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Similarly, Miller Whitehouse-Levine of the Solana Policy Institute echoed that sentiment, stating: “We are optimistic that bipartisan commitment to enact stablecoin legislation will get the Genius Act over the finish line.”

Meanwhile, activity in the House of Representatives suggests the debate is far from over. GOP lawmakers recently introduced a market structure bill that seeks to define regulatory jurisdictions between the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for digital assets. If passed, this legislation could provide the clarity needed for traditional institutions to enter the crypto space with confidence.

Impact on Crypto Stocks

While the broader crypto market took the Senate setback in stride, companies like Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN), Ripple Labs, and Kraken, all of which are impacted by stablecoin regulation, will likely monitor future developments closely. These firms have long advocated for regulatory clarity, viewing it as a catalyst for institutional adoption and product innovation.

For now, the failure to advance stablecoin legislation underscores the challenges of governing emerging financial technologies in a highly polarized political environment. But with both sides acknowledging the need for oversight, the path forward—though delayed—remains open.

Featured Image: Freepik

Please See Disclaimer

Trump Crypto Scandal Jeopardizes Stablecoin Bill

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

The Trump crypto scandal is sparking outrage across Capitol Hill, with lawmakers accusing former President Donald Trump and his family of pushing a self-serving digital currency agenda. At the center of the controversy is a billion-dollar deal involving an Abu Dhabi-backed investment fund, a Trump-affiliated stablecoin, and crypto exchange giant Binance.

World Liberty Financial, a cryptocurrency venture co-owned by Trump’s sons Donald Jr. and Eric, holds direct ties to the former president. According to the company’s website, 60% of it is controlled by a Trump business entity. Critics say this setup dangerously blurs the line between public office and private profit.

A $2 Billion Deal Draws Fire

On May 1, the Emirati fund revealed plans to use Trump’s stablecoin to finance a $2 billion investment in Binance. The massive crypto transaction raised alarm among lawmakers, many of whom believe it undermines the GENIUS Act — a bipartisan effort aimed at regulating stablecoins with oversight, transparency, and consumer protection.

The scandal has already led to fallout. Democratic Rep. Maxine Waters stormed out of a House crypto hearing, calling Trump’s actions “a blatant abuse of power” and accusing him of using regulatory influence to benefit his personal interests.

Meme Coin Profits and Exclusive Perks

The Trump crypto scandal doesn’t stop at stablecoins. In late April, Fight Fight Fight, a company aligned with Trump’s brand, promoted its $TRUMP meme coin by offering exclusive rewards to top investors. Perks included an “intimate dinner” with Trump at his Virginia golf club and a now-deleted promise of a “VIP White House Tour” — despite him no longer being in office.

These promotions sent the coin’s value soaring by up to 80%. Since January, Trump-linked tokens and meme coins have generated over $300 million in trading fees. Many lawmakers view these profits as the result of a carefully orchestrated campaign to exploit Trump’s political brand.

Support for GENIUS Act Weakens

Once seen as a landmark in crypto oversight, the GENIUS Act is now on shaky ground. Senators across party lines are distancing themselves from the legislation. Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren called the Trump crypto scandal “a textbook example of corruption,” arguing that the bill, in its current form, could end up legitimizing Trump’s crypto ventures.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has reportedly urged fellow Democrats to demand stronger anti-corruption measures before supporting the bill. At least nine Democratic senators have pulled their backing since news of the Trump deal broke.

Republican Lawmakers Also Voice Doubts

Though less direct in their criticism, some Republican senators are also signaling resistance. Sen. Rand Paul warned that the proposed regulations could stifle crypto innovation, while Sen. Josh Hawley expressed discomfort with the idea of private entities, including Big Tech, issuing stablecoins.

Sen. John Kennedy, too, remains undecided. He noted that “deals are being made all over the place” and refused to support the bill until its details are clarified.

Calls for New Safeguards and Reform

In response to the Trump crypto scandal, Sens. Jeff Merkley and Elizabeth Warren are drafting legislation to prohibit the president, vice president, and lawmakers — along with their families — from launching or profiting from crypto ventures while in office.

Sen. Merkley described Trump’s activities as “selling access to his office in broad daylight,” adding, “This isn’t just unethical — it’s corrosive to democracy.”

If passed, the End Crypto Corruption Act would aim to restore public trust by separating digital asset entrepreneurship from political power.

Public and political pressure continues to mount as the Trump crypto scandal unfolds. Whether it derails the GENIUS Act or reshapes how U.S. officials engage with digital assets, one thing is clear — the intersection of politics and crypto has never been more volatile.

Featured Image:  Freepik © hoaixuanboss

Please See Disclaimer

Bitcoin ETFs Surge as Institutions Buy In

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency. Leave a Comment

This post was originally published on this site

After a rocky start to the year, the Bitcoin ETFs market is gaining significant momentum. With growing institutional interest, weakening U.S. dollar forecasts, and an accommodative macroeconomic environment, Bitcoin and related exchange-traded funds are re-entering bullish territory.

Bitcoin ETFs Ride the Institutional Wave

The latest inflows into Bitcoin ETFs are a clear signal: big money is getting behind crypto. According to The Economic Times, spot Bitcoin ETFs have recorded over $4.2 billion in net inflows in just the past few weeks, fueled primarily by institutional investors increasing their exposure to the digital asset.

Geoff Kendrick, a senior analyst at Standard Chartered, expects that the mid-May 13F filings with the SEC will show even more institutional support for Bitcoin ETFs. This data could confirm a broader shift in asset allocation strategies, including a move away from traditional safe-haven assets like gold.

Indeed, Kendrick has noted that investors may be rotating from gold ETFs into Bitcoin ETFs, viewing the latter as a more attractive inflation hedge and long-term store of value.

Weak Dollar Makes Bitcoin Shine

The U.S. dollar has been on a downward trajectory in 2025, due in part to tariff tensions and shifting investor sentiment. The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) is down 2.25% in the last month and more than 8% since the start of the year, according to TradingView.

This dollar weakness has bolstered the case for Bitcoin. A depreciating greenback typically benefits hard assets, and Bitcoin, with its capped supply of 21 million coins, is increasingly being seen as “digital gold.”

Forbes reports that several financial institutions now predict a further 15-20% decline in the dollar over the next few years, a development that would likely boost Bitcoin’s long-term value—and by extension, the value of Bitcoin ETFs.

Fed Policy Could Fuel the Crypto Fire

Another catalyst for the current crypto surge is monetary policy. The Federal Reserve is expected to hold rates steady in the near term, but economists project rate cuts beginning in July 2025. According to Barclays, as quoted by Reuters, the Fed is unlikely to move until mid-summer, waiting for more clarity on trade policy and inflation data.

Lower interest rates generally increase risk appetite, pushing investors toward higher-yielding and more volatile assets—like Bitcoin and Bitcoin ETFs. According to the CME FedWatch Tool, there’s a 77.6% chance of a rate cut in July and a 99.5% chance of further easing by September.

Bitcoin Price Predictions Remain Bullish

As confidence grows, so do price targets. Standard Chartered’s Kendrick believes Bitcoin could soon surpass its all-time high of $109,000 and potentially hit $120,000 by the end of Q2. His year-end target is a bold $200,000, assuming institutional inflows continue and macro conditions remain favorable.

Joe Burnett, head of research at Unchained, echoes this sentiment, suggesting Bitcoin could even surge to $250,000 if current tailwinds persist.

Top Bitcoin ETFs for 2025

For investors looking to gain exposure to this bullish trend, several Bitcoin ETFs offer a practical entry point. Among the top picks:

  • iShares Bitcoin Trust (NASDAQ:IBIT) 
  • Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (OTCQX:GBTC) 
  • Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (CBOE:FBTC) 
  • ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (CBOE:ARKB) 
  • Bitwise Bitcoin ETF Trust (NYSEARCA:BITB) 

For those prioritizing cost efficiency, BITB stands out with an annual expense ratio of just 0.20%, making it ideal for long-term holders. Investors may also consider the newer Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust (OTCQX:BTC), which charges a competitive 0.15% fee.

Final Thoughts

While the cryptocurrency market remains inherently volatile, the long-term thesis for Bitcoin ETFs continues to strengthen. Institutional confidence, weakening dollar trends, and dovish monetary policy are aligning to push Bitcoin—and its associated funds—to new highs.

As always, investors should weigh the risks carefully. But for those with a long-term outlook and an appetite for innovation, 2025 may be the breakout year for Bitcoin ETFs.

Featured Image: Freepik

Please See Disclaimer

Compare