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CryptoMarket and Blockchain News

‍Archetype Secures $100M for Crypto Innovation

Venture capital firm Archetype has closed its third fund, Archetype III, with over $100 million in capital commitments. The funds, backed by institutional investors, will support early-stage startups building onchain infrastructure, DeFi, and blockchain applications.

Key investment areas include stablecoins, onchain social networks, DePIN, crypto mobile apps, and AI. Ash Egan, founder of Archetype, stated blockchains are becoming global commerce rails, with a significant shift towards performance and creator tooling.

The broader crypto VC landscape is moving away from speculation towards proven business models. This trend is seen in the growth of Bitcoin DeFi and increased investment in tokenization and stablecoin infrastructure.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5072/archetype-secures-100m-to-fuel-next-wave-of-crypto-innovation

‍BNB Outperforms Bitcoin Amidst Market Volatility

While Bitcoin struggles with bearish pressure and technical indicators suggest potential downside, BNB is exhibiting remarkable strength. The native token of the BNB blockchain has surged over 6% in the last week and 17% in the last 30 days, nearing its all-time high.

This ascent is driven by increased demand for the BNB blockchain, particularly due to the rapid rise of the decentralized perpetual futures exchange Aster. Technical indicators for BNB, including a strong ADX and RSI, combined with a "golden cross" on its EMAs, support its bullish momentum and ability to thrive independently of broader market trends.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5071/bnb-on-fire-why-binance-s-token-is-outperforming-a-shaky-bitcoin-market

‍FTX Recovery Trust Sues Genesis Digital Assets for $1.15 Billion

The FTX Recovery Trust has filed a lawsuit against Bitcoin miner Genesis Digital Assets (GDA) and its co-founders, seeking $1.15 billion. The Trust alleges that former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) misused FTX customer funds to invest in GDA.

The lawsuit claims Bankman-Fried purchased GDA shares through Alameda Research, using "commingled and misappropriated funds," at "outrageously inflated prices." The Trust characterizes these as "archetypical fraudulent transfers."

This action is part of ongoing efforts to recover assets for victims of the FTX collapse, a process compared in scale to the Enron bankruptcy by restructuring expert John J. Ray III. SBF is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5070/ftx-recovery-trust-files-1-15-billion-lawsuit-against-bitcoin-miner-genesis-digital-assets

‍Solana Price Correction: Navigating the Dip and Future Prospects

Solana (SOL) recently experienced a notable price correction, reaching a two-week low of $213 amid broader market risk aversion. This led to the liquidation of $112 million in leveraged bullish positions.

Key indicators such as SOL perpetual futures funding rates, which are near zero or negative, suggest limited demand for leveraged long positions. Historically, negative funding rates have preceded SOL price rebounds.

However, Solana faces challenges: network activity has declined, with active addresses dropping 28% and fees decreasing by 15% in the past week. New competitors like Aster and Hyperliquid are also emerging.

Despite these headwinds, corporate adoption, such as Fitell Corp's $100 million convertible note for a "Solana treasury strategy," and Solana's strong fundamentals (leading in transactions and second in TVL) suggest limited downside risk and potential for recovery as market sentiment shifts.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5069/solana-s-price-action-decoding-the-dip-and-future-outlook

‍Tether Explores Massive $20B Raise at $500B Valuation

Stablecoin issuer Tether is reportedly considering a fundraising round of $15-$20 billion, aiming for a valuation of $500 billion. This would position Tether among the most valuable private companies globally. Discussions are preliminary, and Cantor Fitzgerald is reportedly advising.

Tether has achieved significant profitability, posting $4.9 billion in Q2 profit. USDt remains the dominant stablecoin with a market value of $172.8 billion. The broader stablecoin market is experiencing rapid growth, with competitors like Circle also seeing substantial valuations.

The increasing adoption of stablecoins is driven by efficiency, financial access, and their role in DeFi. Regulatory attention is also growing, with initiatives like the GENIUS bill in the US. This trend underscores the strategic importance of stablecoin issuers in the future of finance.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5068/tether-eyes-20b-raise-at-staggering-500b-valuation-redefining-crypto-s-elite

‍Vodafone's PairPoint Joins SKALE Network as Validator

PairPoint by Vodafone has expanded its role by joining the SKALE Network as a validator, demonstrating commitment to gas-free blockchain infrastructure. This move signifies growing enterprise confidence in decentralized technologies.

SKALE CEO Jack O’Holleran noted that PairPoint's involvement goes beyond validation, highlighting how traditional infrastructure leaders can power next-gen networks. The partnership underscores the complementary nature of gas-free consumer applications and privacy-focused enterprise solutions.

The SKALE Network offers zero gas fees for mass-market dApps, while the FAIR Network provides MEV-resistant infrastructure for institutional use cases. Together, they form a robust foundation for blockchain innovation, combining speed, scalability, privacy, and fairness.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5065/telecom-giant-vodafone-s-pairpoint-doubles-down-on-skale-validating-the-future-of-gas-free-blockchain

‍Bitcoin's Bull Cycle: Profit-Taking Signals and Persistent Demand

Glassnode analysis indicates Bitcoin is in a "historically late phase" of its market cycle, with profit-taking metrics resembling previous cycle tops. Historically, such stages have preceded new all-time highs within months.

Despite profit-taking by long-term holders, new market participants and whales are actively accumulating BTC, absorbing sell-side pressure. Declining exchange balances further suggest reduced immediate selling pressure.

Key metrics to watch include LTH profit-taking, aggressive accumulation by new holders and whales, and historical patterns. While caution is advised, the resilient demand suggests consolidation before potential further gains.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5064/bitcoin-s-bull-cycle-is-profit-taking-a-warning-or-a-precursor-to-new-highs

‍Freedom Factory Launches dGEN1: The 'Hardest' Mobile Hardware Wallet

Freedom Factory introduces the dGEN1, a mobile device featuring ethOS v4, designed for enhanced on-the-go crypto transactions. The dGEN1 integrates an account-abstracted wallet (AA-EOA) for superior security and usability, keeping private keys in an unextractable secure enclave.

The device is chain-agnostic, connecting to all L2 networks simultaneously. Its dGEN1 Paymaster sponsors gas fees, simplifying transactions and eliminating bridging complexities. The dGEN1 is available for $549 USDC with free worldwide shipping until December 31st, 2025.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5062/freedom-factory-s-dgen1-unleashing-the-hardest-hardware-wallet-for-true-mobile-crypto-freedom

‍Bybit Introduces 24/5 Stock CFD Trading, Blurring Crypto and TradFi Lines

Bybit has launched 24/5 trading for selected stock Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on its dedicated TradFi platform. This initiative allows users to trade stock CFDs around the clock, five days a week, overcoming time-zone barriers and enabling continuous risk management.

Initially offering 20 stock CFDs, the service now supports over 100 equities, including NVIDIA, META, MicroStrategy (MSTR), and Coinbase (COIN). Bybit is also waiving trading fees on stock CFDs and indices until October 11, 2025.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5061/bybit-bridges-crypto-and-tradfi-245-stock-cfd-trading-now-live

‍Senator Lummis Advocates for Enhanced Bitcoin ATM Security Amidst Growing Scam Concerns

U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis is proposing stronger safeguards for cryptocurrency ATMs, aiming to combat increasing fraud. Recent data shows a 31% surge in victim losses to nearly $247 million in 2024, with individuals over 60 disproportionately affected.

Industry leaders, like Paul Tarantino of Byte Federal, support preventative measures but caution against regulations that could hinder legitimate users. Tarantino emphasizes that scams stem from malicious actors, not the technology itself, and advocates for collaborative development of best practices.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5060/senator-lummis-pushes-for-stronger-bitcoin-atm-safeguards-amid-escalating-scam-concerns

‍Bybit Card Launches "Travel Far, Win Big" Crypto Challenge

Bybit has introduced a global campaign for Bybit Card holders, offering a chance to win from a prize pool exceeding $55,000 USDT, including a top prize of 30,000 USDT.

The "Travel Far, Win Big" challenge runs from September 22 to November 22, 2025. Participants must register and use their Bybit Card for transactions across five different countries. Spending in categories like transport, fashion, and restaurants contributes to eligibility for rewards.

The Bybit Card, accepted at 150 million merchants globally via Mastercard, aims to bridge crypto spending with everyday life.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5059/bybit-card-ignites-global-wanderlust-with-travel-far-win-big-crypto-challenge

‍Crypto Millionaires and Billionaires Reach Record Highs

A recent report by Henley & Partners indicates a significant surge in cryptocurrency wealth. The number of crypto millionaires has increased by 40% in the past year to 241,700, while crypto billionaires rose by 29% to 36 individuals.

Bitcoin's performance, with a 78% price increase over the last year, has been a primary driver. The report also highlights the borderless nature of digital assets, allowing wealth to be secured and accessed globally. This trend signifies a shift in wealth creation towards decentralized and accessible digital platforms.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5058/crypto-wealth-explodes-record-numbers-of-millionaires-and-billionaires-emerge

‍Neal Stephenson's Lamina1 Partners with Linea to Revolutionize Creator-Owned Media on Ethereum

Lamina1, co-founded by sci-fi author Neal Stephenson, has partnered with Consensys' layer-2 network, Linea. This collaboration aims to empower creators with full ownership of their intellectual property and foster decentralized storytelling on Ethereum.

The partnership's first product is "Spaces," a hub for interactive worlds. The inaugural project, "Artefact," is a post-AI role-playing experience by Stephenson, Weta Workshop, and Lamina1. Linea's zkEVM technology offers fast, secure, and EVM-compatible infrastructure.

Discussions are underway regarding the utility of the new LINEA token, with potential future rewards for long-term holders.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5057/neal-stephenson-s-lamina1-linea-forge-a-new-era-for-creator-owned-media-on-ethereum

‍BlackRock Crypto ETFs: A $260M Revenue Benchmark

BlackRock's Bitcoin and Ether ETFs have generated $260 million in annual revenue, positioning them as a key model for traditional finance entering the digital asset space. Bitcoin ETFs contributed $218 million, while Ether products added $42 million.

BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) now holds nearly $85 billion in AUM, dominating the US spot Bitcoin ETF market with 57.5% share.

Analysts foresee continued inflows potentially extending the crypto market cycle, with some predicting Bitcoin could reach $200,000. This institutional adoption signals a new era for digital assets.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5056/blackrock-s-crypto-etfs-a-260-million-revenue-benchmark-for-traditional-finance

‍Nasdaq-Listed Smart Digital Group to Establish Diversified Crypto Asset Pool

Smart Digital Group (Nasdaq: SDM) announced plans on September 19, 2025, to create a diversified cryptocurrency asset pool, focusing on established digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

This initiative aims to strengthen SDM's position in the digital asset ecosystem, enhance portfolio diversification, and capture value in the evolving digital economy. The company emphasizes robust risk management, comprehensive compliance, and strategic asset allocation for its holdings.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5055/nasdaq-listed-smart-digital-group-unveils-major-diversified-crypto-asset-pool

‍Blockchain Networks to Combat Crypto Deepfake Scams

AI-generated deepfakes pose a significant threat to the crypto industry, with $200 million stolen in Q1 alone. Current centralized detection systems are insufficient, often exhibiting low accuracy and slow adaptation to evolving threats.

Decentralized detection networks offer a robust, crypto-native solution by applying blockchain principles to digital security. These networks incentivize developers to create superior detection models, compensating participants based on performance. This approach provides a transparent, on-chain record of judgments, crucial for combating sophisticated AI-powered fraud.

Experts warn that without decentralized protocols, deepfake scams could represent 70% of crypto crimes by 2026. This shift is essential for securing the future of DeFi and meeting regulatory demands.

Opinion by Ken Miyachi, founder of BitMind.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5053/decentralized-defense-how-blockchain-networks-will-conquer-crypto-deepfake-scams

‍Ripple's RLUSD Powers Institutional Off-Ramp for BlackRock & VanEck Funds

Ripple, in collaboration with Securitize, has integrated its RLUSD stablecoin as an off-ramp for tokenized funds from BlackRock and VanEck. This development enhances liquidity and interoperability in the real-world asset (RWA) tokenization ecosystem.

A new smart contract allows holders of BlackRock's BUIDL and VanEck's VBILL to instantly exchange their tokenized shares for RLUSD, automating liquidity and enabling onchain transfers. RLUSD, launched by Ripple in early 2025, is designed for institutional finance and has gained acceptance from global authorities.

This integration supports the rapid growth of tokenized RWAs on the Securitize platform, which now exceeds $4 billion in assets.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5051/bridging-tradfi-and-crypto-ripple-s-rlusd-powers-institutional-off-ramp-for-blackrock-vaneck-funds

‍UXLink Attacker Falls Victim to Phishing Mid-Exploit

The Web3 social platform UXLink suffered a severe security breach, with its token plummeting over 90%. A hacker compromised a multisignature wallet, minted billions of tokens, and transferred crypto to exchanges. While UXLink worked to freeze assets and announced a token swap, the attacker ironically fell victim to a phishing scam, losing over 500 billion UXLINK tokens. UXLink is implementing a new, fixed-supply smart contract to prevent future minting incidents and rebuild trust.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5047/the-ultimate-crypto-irony-uxlink-attacker-falls-victim-to-phishing-mid-exploit

‍Top 10 Fastest-Growing Blockchains of 2025 Revealed

The blockchain sector is booming, driven by user engagement and tech advancements. This year, growth stems from tangible utility, not just speculation. Key drivers include stablecoin adoption, Layer-2 scalability (like Arbitrum One and Base), vibrant DeFi/NFT ecosystems, mainstream integrations (e.g., Base with Coinbase), and institutional interest (Bitcoin ETFs).

Solana leads with 57M monthly active users, followed by Near Protocol (51.2M) with AI integration. Base (21.5M) benefits from Coinbase's reach, and Bitcoin (10.8M) sees growth via ETFs.

Challenges like bot activity, scalability vs. decentralization trade-offs, regulatory uncertainty, and competition persist. Networks are innovating to overcome these hurdles.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5046/beyond-the-hype-unpacking-the-top-10-fastest-growing-blockchains-of-2025

‍Altcoins Defy Market Downturn with Significant Gains

Despite a challenging week for the broader cryptocurrency market, several altcoins, including Mantle (MNT), Avalanche (AVAX), and Aster (ASTER), have posted impressive double-digit gains.

Mantle (MNT) surged 12.1% following a strategic partnership with Bybit aimed at enhancing financial products for institutional investors.

Avalanche (AVAX) saw a 10.7% daily increase, driven by ecosystem expansion and a significant acquisition of AVAX tokens for its treasury.

Aster (ASTER), a new decentralized exchange on Binance Smart Chain, rose 7% due to a substantial spike in Total Value Locked (TVL) and trading volume.

These gains contrast with Bitcoin and Ethereum, which remained relatively flat after a week marked by substantial liquidations.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/None/altcoins-defy-gravity-mnt-avax-and-aster-surge-amidst-market-downturn

‍Kazakhstan Launches National Stablecoin KZTE on Solana with Mastercard

Kazakhstan has initiated a pilot project for its national stablecoin, Evo (KZTE), pegged to the tenge. Developed by the National Bank of Kazakhstan in partnership with Solana and Mastercard, the initiative operates within the central bank's Digital Assets Regulatory Sandbox.

Intebix crypto exchange and Eurasian Bank are issuing KZTE, leveraging Solana's blockchain technology. Mastercard's involvement aims to connect KZTE with global stablecoin issuers, potentially driving international adoption. The project seeks to expand the crypto-fiat channel, facilitate cryptocurrency exchange, and support transactions via crypto cards, bridging traditional finance and digital assets. This marks a significant step for central banks exploring blockchain for national currency solutions.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5045/kazakhstan-pioneers-national-stablecoin-on-solana-with-mastercard-a-leap-for-crypto-fiat-integration

‍MicroStrategy Buys Another $100 Million in Bitcoin, Total Holdings Exceed $72 Billion

MicroStrategy (MSTR) has acquired an additional 850 BTC for approximately $100 million, increasing its total holdings to 635,893 BTC, valued at over $72 billion. The purchase averaged $117,344 per BTC. Despite a slight dip in MSTR shares, TD Cowen maintains a "buy" rating with a $620 price target, citing undervaluation relative to Bitcoin and potential S&P 500 inclusion.

MicroStrategy's Bitcoin treasury is now over ten times larger than the next largest corporate holder. The company utilizes multiple stock offerings to fund its aggressive accumulation strategy.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/5016/strategy-s-bold-bitcoin-bet-100-million-purchase-solidifies-dominance-despite-market-fluctuations

‍BloFin Achieves Premier PCI DSS Security Certification

BloFin, a global cryptocurrency exchange, has obtained PCI DSS certification, demonstrating its commitment to protecting user financial data. This standard, developed by major payment networks, sets strict requirements for handling cardholder information.

PCI DSS certification enhances security for BloFin users, offering superior protection for card data, reduced fraud risk, and increased trust. This achievement complements BloFin's existing ISO/IEC 27001 certification, underscoring a comprehensive approach to security.

The exchange continues to invest in cybersecurity to ensure a secure and user-centric infrastructure.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4980/blofin-fortifies-user-trust-with-premier-pci-dss-security-certification

‍BloFin Secures PCI DSS Certification for Enhanced Payment Security

BloFin has achieved PCI DSS certification, an internationally recognized standard for secure payment card data handling. This milestone demonstrates the exchange's commitment to protecting user financial information and maintaining compliance with global security best practices.

For users, this means increased confidence when using traditional payment methods, as BloFin has implemented rigorous controls to safeguard card details and reduce the risk of fraud. This certification complements BloFin's existing ISO/IEC 27001 certification, solidifying its position as a multi-compliant platform.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4979/blofin-achieves-pci-dss-certification-elevating-payment-security-for-crypto-traders

‍Coinbase Offers Up to 10.8% USDC Yield, Bolstered by Morpho

Coinbase has launched a new product offering up to 10.8% returns on USDC deposits. This attractive yield is partially a temporary boost from DeFi lender Morpho, contributing approximately 6% of the returns.

Morpho facilitates overcollateralized loan markets on Ethereum and Base. Steakhouse Financial manages the vaults where user USDC is deposited and allocated to various lending markets, including wrapped Bitcoin and Ethereum products. While the enhanced rates are a marketing strategy and will fluctuate, this integration complements Coinbase's existing crypto-backed loans, powered by Morpho.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4958/unpacking-coinbase-s-10-8-usdc-yield-a-temporary-defi-boost-from-morpho

‍Crypto Wallets: Evolving into Digital Control Centers

Crypto wallets are rapidly transforming from simple asset storage to comprehensive digital identity hubs for the Web3 economy. Jess Houlgrave, CEO of Reown, highlights this evolution, envisioning wallets as our primary interface for the digital future.

Innovations in wallet technology have overcome early barriers like complex seed phrases and gas fees, offering greater optionality for users. The focus is on bridging Web3 complexity with Web2 simplicity, making wallet usage as effortless as conventional apps without compromising decentralization.

Beyond finance, wallets are poised to become a "whole handbag" for identity, credentials, personal data, medical records, and more, creating a secure, user-controlled digital footprint.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4929/crypto-wallets-your-future-digital-control-center

‍US Lawmakers Question SEC Over Justin Sun and Tron's Potential Nasdaq Listing

Two members of Congress are scrutinizing the SEC's handling of a case involving Tron founder Justin Sun and Tron's planned Nasdaq listing. Concerns include the timing of dropping an enforcement case against Sun, potential influence from Sun's investments in Trump-linked crypto ventures, and national security risks due to alleged Chinese government ties.

The lawmakers are demanding the SEC ensure Tron meets rigorous listing standards. This inquiry could impact how foreign crypto companies pursue public offerings in the US, highlighting the evolving regulatory landscape. Pending legislation may further shape these processes.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4928/us-lawmakers-grill-sec-on-tron-ipo-justin-sun-what-it-means-for-crypto-listings

‍Grayscale's Digital Large Cap Fund Approved by SEC

Grayscale's Digital Large Cap Fund (GDLC) has received SEC approval for listing on the NYSE. This multi-asset ETF offers diversified exposure to major cryptocurrencies including XRP, Solana, and Cardano, alongside Bitcoin and Ethereum.

GDLC tracks the five largest digital assets, with Bitcoin at 72% and Ethereum at 17%. The fund's approval, following Grayscale's legal victory against the SEC, signals a maturing regulatory environment and opens the door for more diversified crypto investment products.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4919/grayscale-s-multi-asset-crypto-etf-a-new-dawn-for-diversified-digital-investments

‍"Diamond Hand" Investor Turns $1,000 BNB into Over $1 Million

An investor has achieved a remarkable 1,000x return by holding BNB, transforming an initial $1,000 into over $1 million over eight years. This feat coincides with BNB reaching a new all-time high of $1,005.

BNB's ascent is attributed to its expanding utility and increasing demand from institutional investors, as noted by Marwan Kawadri of BNB Chain. Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao expressed his astonishment at BNB's journey from its $0.10 ICO price.

Key takeaways for investors include the value of patience, the importance of utility in driving asset value, and the potential for extended market cycles.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4912/from-1-000-to-1-million-the-diamond-hand-investor-and-bnb-s-historic-ascent

‍Logitech G PLAY 2025: Paving the Way for Web3 Gaming

Logitech G's recent PLAY 2025 event showcased innovations poised to revolutionize digital interaction, particularly for Web3 gaming, the metaverse, and the creator economy.

A key announcement was Streamlabs' AI Streaming Agent, offering real-time commentary and scene switching with a virtual avatar. This technology could integrate with blockchain for NFT drops, AI-driven viewer interaction based on crypto holdings, and automated micro-transaction prompts.

The new product lineup enhances gaming immersion, crucial for digital ownership in Web3. The modular Racing Series and esports-focused mice cater to competitive P2E titles and blockchain tournaments. Multi-platform compatibility, like the A20 X Wireless Headset, supports metaverse interoperability.

Logitech G's advancements provide the hardware and software foundation for a more engaging and decentralized digital future, enabling users to own, create, and thrive in the Web3 landscape.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4887/logitech-g-play-2025-powering-the-web3-revolution-in-gaming-and-streaming

‍XDC Network Integrates USDC to Revolutionize Global Trade Finance

The XDC Network has integrated Circle's USDC stablecoin and Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol (CCTP) V2. This move brings an institutional-grade settlement layer to XDC's ecosystem, aiming to enhance efficiency and trust in global trade finance.

The integration allows for fully on-chain processes, leveraging XDC's ISO-20022 compatibility for seamless connection with existing financial systems. CCTP V2 enables secure, capital-efficient cross-chain USDC transfers.

This development also strengthens XDC's position in the real-world asset (RWA) tokenization market, supporting assets like US Treasurys and private credit. XDC Network boasts high throughput, low costs, and rapid transaction finality.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4886/xdc-network-and-usdc-unlocking-the-future-of-global-trade-finance-and-real-world-assets

‍Restaking Poised for Institutional Growth Driven by Security and Scale

Restaking is rapidly evolving from a niche concept to a core blockchain infrastructure, with Total Value Locked (TVL) reaching approximately $30 billion by August 2025. While retail users fueled the initial surge, institutional interest is now escalating, signaling a new era.

Institutions require standardized risk models, operational visibility, and seamless integrations. Key infrastructure developments include Distributed Validator Technology (DVT) for enhanced security and trust, alongside sophisticated APIs and white-label solutions for simplified integration into existing financial frameworks. This shift from retail innovation to enterprise-ready solutions aims to unlock substantial capital flows by demonstrating robust security, plug-and-play tools, and readiness for institutional due diligence.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4885/restaking-s-next-frontier-institutional-adoption-and-secure-scaling

‍OFAC Sanctions Iranian Network: $100M in Crypto Linked to Illicit Oil Sales

The U.S. Treasury has sanctioned an Iranian network funneling over $100 million in cryptocurrency from illicit oil sales, benefiting the IRGC-QF and MODAFL. This action targets Iran's "shadow banking" system, leveraging front companies and digital assets.

Central figures Alireza Derakhshan and Arash Estaki Alivand orchestrated these movements since 2023, using shell firms in Hong Kong and the UAE. Links to Hezbollah and Syria’s Al-Qatirji Company, previously sanctioned, were also identified.

OFAC's explicit targeting of blockchain activity signifies a strategic shift, with crypto becoming a parallel channel for discreet cross-border value transfer. Iran converts fiat to stablecoins (USDT, TRX), moves value through intermediary wallets, and off-ramps via exchanges with weak compliance.

The U.S. aims to disrupt financial streams funding Iran's illicit activities, signaling that "digital rails are a growing focus for sanctions."

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4875/ofac-unleashes-sanctions-on-iranian-network-100m-in-crypto-linked-to-illicit-oil-sales

‍UFC Expands Web3 Integration with Fight.ID Funding

Fight.ID, an official partner for UFC Strike digital collectibles, has announced an expanded collaboration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The company secured funding from institutional and angel investors, including Anthos Capital, Aptos Foundation, and UFC athletes, to further develop blockchain-powered fan experiences.

The investment will fuel the creation of a digital identity and loyalty system, a fighter prize pool mechanism, and premium merchandise within the Fight.ID ecosystem. Key Web3 functionalities planned include digital asset ownership for fans, programmable rewards, and enhanced community engagement.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4834/ufc-s-web3-future-fight-id-secures-funding-for-blockchain-powered-fan-experience

‍Bitcoin Faces Geopolitical Uncertainty and Fed Rate Decisions

Bitcoin's price is influenced by escalating geopolitical tensions and the upcoming FOMC interest rate decision. Analysts warn of potential market volatility.

Analysts at Bitunix advise traders to monitor international responses and sanctions. Key Bitcoin levels to watch are resistance at $117,000–$118,000 and supports at $114,000 and $111,000. Traders are advised to reduce leverage and limit single-position exposure amidst developing events.

Market consensus indicates a 25-basis point rate cut from the Fed, with less expectation for a 50-basis point cut. Rising VIX and MOVE indices reflect broader market apprehension.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4833/bitcoin-navigates-geopolitical-storms-and-fed-decisions-what-traders-need-to-know

‍UN Agency to Launch Government Blockchain Academy

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is partnering with the Exponential Science Foundation to launch a "Government Blockchain Academy." The initiative aims to equip governments with expertise in blockchain, AI, and other emerging technologies to address development challenges.

Key focus areas include digital credentials, financial services, transparent public procurement, secure recordkeeping, and climate finance through tokens and smart contracts. The academy plans to begin curriculum design this year, with a phased rollout starting in 2026, offering various learning formats.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4816/un-agency-to-empower-governments-with-crypto-blockchain-expertise

‍SEC Chair Signals Major Shift: Notice Before Enforcement for Crypto Businesses

SEC Chair Paul Atkins is indicating a move away from the "enforcement-first" approach towards a more collaborative strategy. Crypto businesses may now receive preliminary notices for technical violations before facing punitive actions.

Atkins criticized past enforcement actions as lacking precedent and predictability, suggesting a period of up to six months for compliance before enforcement. He also stated that most tokens likely do not fall under securities laws.

The SEC has established a Crypto Task Force and dropped several previous investigations, signaling a more constructive relationship with the industry.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4790/sec-chair-signals-major-shift-notice-before-enforcement-for-crypto-businesses

‍The Taproot Divide: Bitcoin's Contentious Upgrade Sparks Debate

Bitcoin's Taproot upgrade, activated in November 2021, aimed to enhance privacy and efficiency. However, its creators may have underestimated the "social attack surface" it would create, leading to an influx of non-financial transactions like Ordinals and BRC-20s.

This has ignited a debate within the Bitcoin community regarding the network's core purpose. While some advocate for Bitcoin as a peer-to-peer electronic cash system, others embrace its potential for diverse innovations, arguing that the network should not censor transactions.

Proponents of Ordinals highlight their contribution to network security through transaction fees, particularly as block subsidies decrease. However, fee volatility remains a concern. The ongoing discussions surrounding Taproot underscore the dynamic evolution of Bitcoin.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4786/the-taproot-divide-unpacking-bitcoin-s-contentious-upgrade

‍Ethereum Foundation Prioritizes Privacy with New Roadmap

The Ethereum Foundation has launched a comprehensive privacy initiative, now branded as "Privacy Stewards of Ethereum" (PSE). This program aims to integrate end-to-end privacy features across the Ethereum network, from core protocols to user applications.

Key goals for the next 3-6 months include enabling private transfers via PlasmaFold, implementing confidential voting, enhancing privacy in DeFi, addressing RPC data concerns, and developing private identity solutions using zero-knowledge proofs. This push reaffirms Ethereum's commitment to privacy as a core principle, addressing growing concerns about digital surveillance.

https://cryptovka.ru/en/news/4771/ethereum-s-bold-new-privacy-push-introducing-privacy-stewards-and-a-comprehensive-roadmap