Donven International

Binance Issues Real-World Threat Alert With Urgent Advice for Crypto Holders
As physical threats escalate alongside bitcoin’s bull run, Binance is sounding the alarm with a high-impact, five-pronged defense plan to protect crypto holders worldwide
Binance Reveals 5-Step Action Plan as Crypto-Related Attacks Spike
Crypto exchange Binance issued a safety advisory on May 27, warning the crypto community about a growing threat that extends beyond the digital realm. The Binance Physical Security team reported that as bitcoin prices rise and adoption increases, so too does the risk of physical attacks targeting individuals associated with cryptocurrencies. While still relatively rare, these incidents are growing in frequency and have prompted Binance to urge both caution and preparedness among users.
Binance stated:
Our data shows an increase in the number of publicly reported physical attacks on crypto users since 2021, with the BTC price strongly correlated with the number of such incidents.
“As the industry’s digital defenses become more robust, criminals are increasingly shifting to real-world tactics,” the crypto exchange added. The advisory pointed to concrete data trends: “In 2019, only one incident was recorded, while 15 kidnapping cases were already reported in the first five months of 2025. These numbers are still marginal compared to the overall global number of kidnappings, which varies dramatically between estimates but measures in tens of thousands per year.” Despite the relatively low figures, Binance emphasized that awareness and preventive measures are now necessary for anyone operating in the crypto space—particularly those with public exposure or perceived access to large digital asset holdings.
To help reduce the risk of real-world attacks on crypto holders, Binance recommended five key focus areas with immediate, actionable steps. First, users should limit their online exposure by not publicizing their involvement in crypto, avoiding the sharing of wallet screenshots or transaction histories, and using pseudonyms for blockchain activities to stay discreet. Second, they should strengthen social media privacy settings by making accounts private, removing geolocation data from posts, and delaying the sharing of travel plans or locations until after returning, which can help prevent attackers from tracking their movements.
Third, obfuscate wallet ownership by using privacy-preserving wallets, rotating addresses to prevent long-term transaction links, and avoiding any connection between your real identity and blockchain activity. Fourth, maintain situational awareness by varying travel routines, being discreet at crypto events, and performing physical security audits of your residence or workplace. Fifth, establish emergency contingency plans, such as setting crisis protocols with trusted contacts, using multi-signature wallets or hardware security modules to resist coercion, and knowing how and when to contact authorities or professional security teams if threats arise.
These combined strategies offer a solid foundation for safeguarding both individuals and assets in a high-risk environment. The exchange’s message combined firm warnings with practical recommendations. Binance stated:
Criminals are looking for careless mistakes online, watching behaviors, and exploiting moments of vulnerability in their potential victims. #Earn2Write

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First US Bank-Issued Stablecoin on Permissionless Blockchain Goes Live
First-ever tokenization of U.S. dollar bank deposits on Ethereum signals a seismic shift in traditional finance, with stablecoins now fully regulator-approved.
Custodia and Vantage Bank Complete Historic Stablecoin Transaction on Ethereum
Custodia Bank announced on March 25 that it had completed a landmark transaction in partnership with Vantage Bank, describing it as “America’s first-ever tokenization of a bank’s U.S. dollar demand deposits on a permissionless blockchain by issuing, transferring and redeeming Avit stablecoins for a bank customer."
A new blockchain-based U.S. dollar payment system was introduced in the traditional banking sector to address global demand for regulated, dollar-backed stablecoins. Avit, a trademark of Custodia Bank Inc., are fully reserved stablecoins structured as tokenized demand deposits, enabling programmable and auditable digital dollar payments on public blockchains. The announcement details:
The banks collaborated on the mint, transfer and redemption of Avit tokens for a bank customer on the Ethereum mainnet using the ERC-20 standard.
“Parties transacted in eight stages, with Vantage Bank managing the stablecoin fiat reserves and providing Fedwire/ACH services,” the announcement adds. Custodia oversaw blockchain issuance, redemption, custody, transaction monitoring and reconciliation via its Avit Management System.
The customer was able to move Avit tokens into self-custody, carry out business-to-business transactions outside the banking system, and later redeem the tokens for dollar deposits. To comply with U.S. regulations, both institutions implemented unique policies and documentation to meet Bank Secrecy Act, anti-money laundering, and Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) requirements.
Custodia CEO Caitlin Long highlighted the importance of regulatory cooperation, stating: “We broke ground on the legal/regulatory front, proving that U.S. banks can collaborate to tokenize demand deposits on a permissionless blockchain in a regulatorily-compliant manner.” She also shared on social media platform X:
We took territory by issuing the first bank-issued stablecoin on a permissionless blockchain.
“It’s not what you think,” the executive added, elaborating: “The real impact is on tradfi … crypto took regulatory territory, but tradfi is the real story in what Custodia Bank did with Vantage Bank.”
Vantage Bank President and CEO Jeff Sinnott noted the wider impact of the project: “This event marks a pivotal moment in reshaping the financial landscape, demonstrating how blockchain and stablecoins can revolutionise payments. By executing this transaction, we’re empowering banks to lead responsibly in cross-border modernisation, while also leveraging the strength of the U.S. Dollar and demonstrating regulators’ support for responsible innovation.” The entire process utilised Custodia’s 2022 U.S. patent for tokenising dollar bank deposits on permissionless smart-contract platforms, laying the groundwork for further integration of blockchain in compliant banking environments. #Write2Earn

Ethereum Goes Inflationary Amid Wave of Negative Sentiment Against Rollups
While there are several theories about the cause of this, many revolve around Ethereum’s scaling path, adopting L2 structures that interfere with the burn mechanisms designed to prevent this.
Ethereum Inflation Goes Positive: Are L2s Guilty?
Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency ecosystem in the industry, is experiencing widespread criticism due to its poor price performance and low utilization of its base layer. Recently, the issuance of the network has skyrocketed, making its market supply inflationary again and undermining the mechanisms designed for these numbers to be negative.
According to Ultrasound Money, a site that tracks Ethereum’s behavior, Ethereum has currently added close to 20,000 ETH to its market cap since the merge, the update that transitioned the network’s legacy proof-of-work consensus to a proof-of-stake mechanism considered less wasteful and more energy efficient.
Nikita Zhavoronkov, lead developer at Blockchair, delved into what he considers the main cause of this: the abandonment of the previous L1-focused scaling roadmap for the current rollup-based scaling strategy.
In social media, Zhavoronkov stated:
All that Merge hype about Ethereum’s deflation is now fully undone: the L2 roadmap has basically torpedoed the burn mechanism.
Zhavoronkov and others attribute this change, generally considered negative, to the rising influence and growth of L2 structures, that siphon activity from the base chain and generate earnings while paying low fees, bypassing the burning mechanisms put in place before.
Andre Cronje, co-founder of Sonic, has also criticized the current state of Ethereum, calling into question the value that rollups bring to the ecosystem.
Promoting Sonic’s tech to address Ethereum flaws, he declared:
L2s are why Ethereum is inflationary again. SCALE ETHEREUM. They can get the Sonic tech for free. 0 charge. Will 1000x their throughput. Make Ethereum Great Again!
Nonetheless, rooting out the value that is now captured by L2s seems impossible, and any movement to do so might wreak havoc in these organizations. According to L2beat, over $37 billion in funds are currently secured by these structures, with Arbitrum at the front securing over $14 billion. #Write2Earn

Zimbabwe Not Ready to De-Dollarize, Says Finance Minister
Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube stated that the country must regain access to credit lines before adopting the Zig as its sole currency. He emphasized the need to restructure $21 billion in debt, as Zimbabwe has been locked out of capital markets since 1999 due to defaulting on its debt. Clearing arrears would enable access to balance of payments support, which is essential for managing imports and defending the currency. The ZiG was introduced in April to replace the dollar but has faced challenges, including a 43% devaluation in September and calls for its abandonment. The central bank has invested over $400 million to support the currency and has tightened liquidity. #Write2Earn

Roger Ver’s Plea to Trump: End US Lawfare and Uphold Justice
Roger Ver, the cryptocurrency pioneer known as “Bitcoin Jesus,” is fighting against what he calls politically motivated lawfare, urging President Donald Trump to intervene as his extradition to the U.S. looms.
Roger Ver Calls on Trump to End Political Persecution as Extradition Looms
In a recent Coindesk interview, Roger Ver detailed his battle against what he claims is an unjust legal campaign by U.S. authorities. Speaking from Spain, where he has been forced to remain for nearly a year while awaiting extradition, Ver described the immense stress of living under constant threat. “Every time the doorbell rings or my phone rings, I’m terrified that this could be my last moment of freedom,” he said.
Ver, once an early investor in bitcoin (BTC) and one of its most vocal advocates, faces charges of mail fraud, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns—accusations he vehemently denies. He argues that his prosecution is not about financial wrongdoing but about silencing a critic of the U.S. government’s control over cryptocurrency. “This is pure lawfare from the Biden administration. They hated crypto and waged a war against any business or person promoting it,” he told Coindesk’s Christine Lee.
Having lost his final appeal in Spain, Ver could be extradited to the U.S. at any moment. In response, he has made a direct appeal to President Donald Trump, urging him to end what he calls a politically motivated attack. “The new Trump administration needs to see this for what it is and either drop all the charges or grant me a pardon,” Ver said. He insists that exonerating him would send a clear message that America supports entrepreneurship rather than punishing those who challenge its financial system.
Ver maintains that he has always been willing to pay any taxes legally required of him but that the IRS has never provided a clear calculation of what they claim he owes. “We filed Freedom of Information Act requests asking the IRS to show their calculations, and they still haven’t provided anything,” he explained. He also accused U.S. prosecutors of lying to the Spanish courts to push for his extradition.
Beyond his own case, Ver sees his legal troubles as part of a broader pattern of government crackdowns on the crypto industry. He pointed to others who have been prosecuted, including developers and entrepreneurs targeted simply for their involvement in the space. “If we don’t stand up for the innocent people they’re coming after now, there will be no one left to stand up when they come for you,” he warned.
While his fate remains uncertain, Ver remains hopeful that Trump will step in to stop the legal attacks against him and others in the crypto community. “If America wants to be the leader in bitcoin and crypto, it has to stop throwing entrepreneurs in jail over lawfare or their political views,” he said. As his extradition looms, Ver’s future now hinges on whether Trump will heed his call. #Write2Earn

University of Waterloo to Create Blockchain and AI Lab With $1 Million Interop Labs Donation
Interop Labs has announced a significant $1 million donation to the University of Waterloo to establish the GENESIS Lab, a cutting-edge research facility focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology. This initiative, part of the Computer Research Endowment at the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science, aims to foster collaboration between academia and industry while attracting top research talent through PhD and undergraduate fellowships. The GENESIS Lab will explore scalable and secure distributed systems, aligning with global trends in AI and blockchain innovation. University officials, including President Vivek Goel and School Director Dr. Raouf Boutaba, expressed gratitude for the partnership, emphasizing its potential to drive transformative research and redefine future technological landscapes. #Write2Earn

Russia and Ethiopia Take Steps Away From US Dollar as Dedollarization Grows
Countries are accelerating a shift away from the U.S. dollar in trade, with Russia and Ethiopia deepening currency ties to enhance economic stability and reduce reliance on foreign exchange.
Global Shift Away From US Dollar Accelerates—Russia and Ethiopia Deepen Currency Ties
Countries worldwide are increasingly shifting away from the U.S. dollar in trade, opting instead for national currencies to reduce reliance on foreign exchange and enhance economic stability. Russia and Ethiopia are among the latest to embrace this trend, as they begin trading in their respective currencies. Ethiopian Ambassador to Moscow Genet Teshome Jirru highlighted that while the transition is still in its infancy, both nations are committed to expanding the practice. He stated in an interview with Tass:
This process between Russia and Ethiopia is still in its early stages, so it is too early to provide precise statistics. But both sides are clearly interested in trading in national currencies and this cooperation will develop over time.
The ambassador stressed that conducting trade in local currencies offers financial advantages, regardless of external factors such as international sanctions. “Even if there were no sanctions, trade in local currency is always very profitable,” he said, explaining that it eliminates transaction costs and shields businesses from the volatility of exchange rate fluctuations.
The decision by both countries to trade without a dominant global currency reflects a broader trend toward economic independence and risk reduction. Russia’s expansion of trade partnerships using national currencies strengthens its economic ties with Ethiopia, reducing reliance on third-party currencies.
Further emphasizing the benefits, the ambassador pointed out that reliance on foreign currencies introduces uncertainty and can drive up the cost of goods due to speculative trading. He concluded that reducing dependence on external currencies brings more stability to economic exchanges, noting:
Trade in national currencies makes economic relations more predictable.
Ethiopia’s economic ties with Russia are growing following its BRICS membership in January 2024. As part of the bloc, which also includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Indonesia, Ethiopia seeks to enhance trade and investment to support economic diversification. The BRICS expansion reflects a broader push by developing nations to form alternative economic alliances and reduce reliance on Western financial systems. Ethiopia’s participation may also promote trade in national currencies among member states. #Write2Earn

FDIC to Revise Guidelines, Opening the Door for Banks to Engage in Crypto
The FDIC is set to revise its crypto guidelines, potentially allowing banks to engage in digital asset activities. This shift aligns with the pro-crypto stance of the Trump administration, paving the way for tokenized deposits and broader banking participation in crypto.
FDIC to Allow Banks to Engage in Crypto
In a major policy shift, the U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is reportedly revising its crypto guidelines, removing regulatory hurdles that have long kept banks from engaging in digital asset activities.
According to a report by Barrons, the FDIC aims to eliminate the need for prior approval before banks can offer crypto-related services, including tokenized deposits that could bring checking accounts onto blockchains.
Acting Chairman Travis Hill acknowledged that banks seeking to enter the crypto space have faced delays and regulatory resistance under past policies.
This move follows a court-ordered release of internal FDIC documents prompted by a lawsuit from Coinbase, which sought transparency on regulatory decisions regarding crypto.
If implemented, this policy shift could rapidly accelerate bank adoption of crypto. Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan recently confirmed that banks are ready to engage once regulations permit.
Meanwhile, Standard Chartered predicts bitcoin could reach $500,000 by 2028, with increased banking participation boosting accessibility and stability in the crypto market.
With the FDIC poised to ease restrictions, the traditional banking sector and digital assets may soon become more interconnected than ever. #Write2Earrn

BRICS Currency Plan Closely Monitored by US, Says Indian Expert
The U.S. is closely monitoring BRICS currency talks, an Indian expert says, as the bloc advances efforts to reduce dollar reliance and boost financial sovereignty.
US Monitoring BRICS Currency Talks, Says Indian Expert
The ongoing push within BRICS to explore dedollarization and introduce a potential BRICS currency has garnered significant attention from global powers, particularly the United States. Indian international relations expert Subhashish Banerjee stated in an interview with Tass that while the U.S. is unlikely to actively disrupt BRICS, it will closely monitor its progress. Banerjee noted:
Discussions about replacing the U.S. dollar with the BRICS currency might have triggered some kind of disbalance in understanding. But I assume that it is absolutely temporary in nature.
The prospect of reducing reliance on the dollar has gained traction among BRICS members, especially Russia and China, as a response to concerns over U.S. economic influence.
India, however, remains cautious about dedollarization. Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has reiterated that “India has never been a supporter of de-dollarization.” While India opposes the concept of a unified BRICS currency, the bloc is actively promoting the use of local currencies in trade. This approach aims to reduce transaction costs and shield member states from currency volatility linked to the dollar.
Sergey Ryabkov, Russia’s BRICS sherpa, emphasized that the initiative is not about abandoning the dollar but about addressing the consequences of U.S. policies. BRICS members have already initiated steps toward conducting trade in national currencies, with several bilateral agreements signed in recent years. Such efforts mark a broader push for financial sovereignty within the bloc.
The BRICS group currently comprises 10 member nations. Besides Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the association recently expanded to include Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Ethiopia, and Indonesia. Additionally, BRICS has established partnerships with a number of countries, further strengthening its influence. The group’s efforts to promote economic cooperation, reduce dollar reliance, and potentially establish a common currency highlight its ambition to reshape the global financial landscape and challenge the dollar’s dominance. #Write2Earn

Brazilian Authorities Suspend Sam Altman's World Rewards
The National Data Protection Authority (ANPD), Brazil’s data watchdog, has barred World, Sam Altman’s digital ID project, from offering rewards to users who enroll in its platform.
Brazilian Authorities Ban World Crypto Rewards Program
Sam Altman’s World, the proof-of-humanity biometric ID project, is embroiled in a battle against Brazilian authorities. The National Data Protection Authority (ANPD), Brazil’s data watchdog, has barred the project from offering rewards associated with enrolling users on its platform.
The institution claimed that offering any reward for exchanging personal data would violate terms and considerations included in local regulations.
In a recent release, the authority stated that “consent for processing sensitive personal data, such as biometric data, must be free, informed, unequivocal and provided in a specific and highlighted manner, for specific purposes.”
In this sense, the ANPD noted that “monetary consideration offered by the company may interfere with the free expression of the will of individuals by influencing the decision regarding the provision of their biometric data, especially in cases where potential vulnerability and insufficiency make the weight of the payment offered even greater.”
The measure, issued on January 25, is already in effect. This is only a preventive measure and others might follow if the institution considers it.
Tools For Humanity, the company behind World, denied these allegations, declaring that it complied with all Brazilian laws and regulations.
“We are in contact with the ANPD and are confident that we can work with them to ensure the continued ability of all Brazilians to fully participate in the World network,” the company told Valor Economico.
Last week, the ANPD reported that it was in the analytic phases of a probe on World and that preventive measures could originate from this investigation.
World started operations in the country in November, opening eye-scanning sites in ten different locations in São Paulo. The company claims it has registered over 150,000 individuals in the country, offering rewards in WLD, its cryptocurrency. #Write2Earn

Binance CEO: 2025 Set for Bitcoin's All-Time High Amid US Regulatory Overhaul
Binance CEO Richard Teng predicts bitcoin’s all-time high in 2025, citing regulatory shifts under Trump’s leadership, strategic U.S. moves, and pro-crypto momentum.
Binance CEO Says Bitcoin Will Hit All-Time High in 2025, Backed by Trump’s Reforms
Binance CEO Richard Teng shared his optimism last week about bitcoin reaching a new all-time high in 2025, attributing his forecast to what he described as a shifting regulatory environment in the United States under President Donald Trump. In a CNBC-hosted fireside discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Teng stated:
If you look at past cycles, this year will be a year that we see a new all-time high for the crypto industry.
He highlighted that the Trump administration’s policies could usher in much-needed regulatory clarity, driving the next phase of growth for cryptocurrencies like bitcoin.
Teng pointed to several recent moves by the U.S. government as key to creating a more crypto-friendly environment. President Trump’s executive order, “Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology,” emphasizes innovation in digital finance, support for dollar-backed stablecoins, and rejection of a central bank digital currency (CBDC). In addition, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has formed a task force to clarify crypto regulations, while Mark T. Uyeda, a crypto-friendly figure, has been appointed as the SEC’s acting chair. Similarly, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has named a new leader to enhance oversight of crypto assets, signaling the administration’s intent to integrate digital assets into the financial framework.
Teng underscored that these changes could provide the industry with “certainty” and “recognition” and foster sustainable growth. Highlighting the broader shift, Teng noted a growing pro-crypto stance among U.S. lawmakers and regulators. Noting that legislation on token issuance, trading, and asset management is likely to move forward, he remarked:
The House of Representatives and the Senate now [are] pro-crypto, compared to the past.
The Binance boss also mentioned Trump’s campaign pledge to establish a U.S. strategic bitcoin reserve, which would further bolster confidence in the industry. Teng concluded that these developments mark a significant transformation in how the U.S. approaches cryptocurrency, laying a strong foundation for bitcoin’s resurgence in 2025. #Write2Earn

Bitcoin Price Dips Below $100,000 in Dramatic Market Shift
In a notable financial shift, bitcoin’s valuation underwent a sharp descent, plummeting from a peak of $106,294 to a lower bound of $99,462. This decline signals a significant alteration in the digital currency’s recent path.
Bitcoin’s Sudden Plunge Sparks Market Mayhem
The market capitalization of bitcoin (BTC) currently hovers around $1.98 trillion, mirroring the unexpected fluctuations within the cryptocurrency markets during bull runs. Around $135 million in BTC longs were wiped out across crypto derivatives markets. Approximately $902 million has been liquidated across the entire crypto economy. Some are calling the Trump inauguration pump a “sell the news” event. Others playfully stated that since this dump happened, “at least the inauguration can’t be [a] sell the news now.”

Trump, of course, has claimed credit for some of BTC’s price highs dubbing it the “Trump effect” in action. In the last 24 hours, bitcoin’s trading volume escalated to $78.49 billion. This heightened activity suggests that market participants are rapidly responding to these recent valuation shifts, perhaps seizing the opportunity provided by the price decrease or divesting their stakes to mitigate losses.
The launch follows the dramatic events of the Trump family’s new meme tokens TRUMP and MELANIA this weekend. This adjustment in BTC’s price also occurs against a backdrop of broader economic elements that persist in posing challenges to the stability of virtual currencies and risk-on assets. As market participants steer through this intricate landscape, the oscillating prices of key players like bitcoin are poised to maintain the focus of both experienced investors and those new to the cryptocurrency arena. #Write2Earn

Nigeria Approves First Dedicated AI University in Africa
Nigeria is set to launch Africa’s first dedicated artificial intelligence (AI) university, Wini Institution, in Epe, Lagos. This ambitious project aims to equip young Nigerians with cutting-edge AI skills, fostering a thriving tech ecosystem and positioning Nigeria as a global leader in AI innovation. Inspired by a similar institution in Qatar, Wini University has received approval from the Nigerian government and plans to offer programs in AI, blockchain, cloud computing, and machine learning. By training top-tier AI talent, the university seeks to transform African education and drive economic growth, with the ultimate goal of turning Lagos into “Africa’s Silicon Valley.” #Write2Earn

‘Things Will Be Different Tomorrow’: Microstrategy's Saylor Teases Next Big Bitcoin Move
According to recent data, Michael Saylor’s Microstrategy holds an impressive 450,000 BTC, with the value of its holdings increasing by 68%. This equates to a $19.055 billion rise in the overall value of the company’s bitcoin reserves.
Michael Saylor’s Bitcoin Empire
Over the past six months, shares of the business intelligence firm Microstrategy (Nasdaq: MSTR) have appreciated by an extraordinary 152% when measured against the U.S. dollar. Over the preceding five days alone, the company’s stock has advanced by 27.92%.
Complementing this impressive performance, Microstrategy’s strategic investment in bitcoin (BTC) has also yielded exceptional returns during the same period. Data indicates that since initiating its bitcoin (BTC) acquisition strategy in 2020, Microstrategy has accumulated an extraordinary total of 450,000 bitcoins.

The firm has allocated $28.179 billion toward these acquisitions, employing leveraged debt as part of its financing approach. Notably, as reported by Bitcoin.com News just yesterday, the company was exploring another share expansion model to generate additional capital for further bitcoin purchases.
By Monday, Microstrategy’s holdings could potentially increase, as Michael Saylor hinted on Sunday with a cryptic statement: “Things will be different tomorrow,” accompanied by an image of the firm’s portfolio tracker. Historically, such statements from Saylor have preceded announcements of new bitcoin acquisitions.
To date, after methodically dollar-cost averaging into BTC and expending $28.179 billion, the company’s bitcoin position has appreciated by a staggering $19.055 billion. As of Jan. 19, 2025, Microstrategy’s BTC holdings are valued at $47.234 billion.

According to the “There Is No Second Best” tracker hosted by blockchaincenter.net, had Saylor and his firm opted to acquire ether (ETH) instead, their investment would have yielded only a 33% gain, as opposed to the current 68%.
In that hypothetical scenario, Microstrategy’s holdings would amount to $37.504 billion, falling significantly short of its current $47.234 billion valuation for its bitcoin reserves. Microstrategy’s unwavering commitment to bitcoin reflects a bold conviction in its long-term potential, with the firm’s strategy serving as a high-stakes bet on the digital asset’s supremacy over alternatives like ether.
By coupling financial innovation with a calculated investment approach, Microstrategy has, at least so far, positioned itself not only as a corporate trailblazer, but also as a case study in the intersection of finance and digital transformation. #Write2Earn

Trump Inherits Biden’s Economic Time Bomb: Debt Crisis, Inflation, and Global Tensions Await
With Donald Trump stepping into the role of Commander in Chief on Monday, the newly established Republican administration faces an array of pressing challenges following the profound economic damage wrought under Joe Biden’s tenure.
Can Trump Salvage America’s Economic Future?
On her final day in office, Biden’s Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, delivered a dire admonition in a letter, pointing out that the United States would hit its statutory debt ceiling between Jan. 14 and Jan. 23. This predicament lands squarely on the shoulders of the 47th U.S. president, adding to the challenges Donald Trump must now confront. While Biden’s farewell remarks boasted of an economy in sound condition, the reality lays bare the hollowness of his claims.
The economic turmoil unleashed under Biden’s administration has left American businesses grappling with a hostile environment, and projections for U.S. economic growth in 2025 tell the tale: a modest 1.6%-2.0%—a clear retreat from stronger performances of previous years. Compounding this, inflation remains a persistent obstacle, with expectations that it may align with the Federal Reserve’s 2% target only by late 2025.
The lingering effects of stagnant wages and tight labor markets, legacies of Biden’s policies, threaten to amplify inflationary strains as Trump’s administration seeks to steer the nation toward recovery. The relentless growth of federal debt remains a critical concern, with the debt-to-GDP ratio forecasted to hit an alarming 107% by 2029. By 2025, interest payments on this mounting debt are projected to soar past $1.2 trillion, constricting the government’s ability to allocate funds elsewhere.
Trump faces an economic landscape fraught with challenges, not least of which is the precarious state of international relations. Escalating tensions with China and Russia threaten to disrupt global trade and investment patterns, injecting volatility into the already uncertain economic forecast. To complicate matters further, the unpredictable nature of external crises—whether war, cyberattacks, or natural disasters—poses ongoing threats to national economic stability. Under Biden’s tenure, numerous U.S. regions suffered the ravages of natural disasters, leaving Trump to grapple with the fallout of yet another poorly managed legacy.
The challenges awaiting Trump are not merely a test of policy but of leadership capable of navigating an economy weighed down by prior mismanagement and global uncertainty. His administration must confront the dual specters of spiraling debt and geopolitical unrest with decisiveness and innovation, crafting solutions that restore confidence and stability. The task is formidable, demanding a vision that transcends short-term fixes and addresses the systemic vulnerabilities laid bare. #Write2Earn

Bitcoin Technical Analysis: Is a Breakout Above $97K on the Horizon?
Bitcoin is trading at $96,156 with a market cap of $1.90 trillion, a 24-hour trade volume of $64 billion, and an intraday range of $89,164 to $97,328, reflecting mixed signals across technical indicators and timeframes.
Bitcoin
The daily chart shows bitcoin in a downtrend, with the price declining from a peak of $108,364 to a low of $89,164. Recent bullish attempts are weak, as evidenced by moderate buying volumes compared to high selling volumes during the decline. Entry above $98,000 may be considered if stronger buying momentum emerges, but cautious positioning remains essential given the broader trend.

On the four-hour chart, bitcoin has experienced consolidation around $91,000, followed by a minor upward movement supported by a bullish engulfing pattern. Large selling volumes during the drop confirm bearish dominance, while lower buying volumes in recovery indicate a potential bear trap. Short-term entries could target a break above $97,000, with stop-losses near $94,000.

The hourly chart highlights a sharp rebound from $89,164 but reveals reduced momentum as the price approaches $97,000. High buying volumes at lower levels suggest accumulation, yet declining volume during consolidation implies reduced market interest. Scalpers may find opportunities above $97,300, aiming for resistance near $98,500 with tight stops.

Oscillators are largely neutral, with the relative strength index (RSI) at 50 and the stochastic indicator at 40. The momentum indicator suggests a buy signal, while the moving average convergence divergence (MACD) points to selling pressure. Moving averages (MAs) favor bullish sentiment, as exponential moving averages (EMAs) and simple moving averages (SMAs) for most timeframes indicate buying opportunities, apart from the 30-period SMA and 50-period SMA, which signal a sell.
Bull Verdict:
If bitcoin breaks above $98,000 with sustained buying momentum and improved volume, it could target further upside, supported by positive signals from most moving averages and underlying accumulation.
Bear Verdict:
Without a clear breakout above resistance at $97,328, continued bearish sentiment may prevail, with the risk of a retest of lower support levels around $89,164 driven by weak follow-through on bullish attempts. #Write2Earn

Intesa Sanpaolo: Italy’s Largest Bank Makes History With Bitcoin Settlement
Italy’s largest bank, Intesa Sanpaolo, has etched its name in financial history as the first Italian institution to venture into direct bitcoin settlement.
First Bitcoin Deal by Italy’s Largest Financial Institution
On Jan. 13, 2025, the bank executed a proprietary bitcoin transaction valued at one million euros, securing 11 bitcoin (BTC), as disclosed in an internal memo. This pivotal development follows the 2023 inception of Intesa’s digital assets trading desk and its subsequent initiation of cryptocurrency spot trading.

At its inception, the Italian bank’s crypto trading desk concentrated on crypto options, futures, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). By late 2024, Intesa Sanpaolo had broadened its scope to encompass spot cryptocurrency trading, following internal authorization and the implementation of essential technical frameworks.
Reports state that the bank later verified the transaction after several media outlets sought confirmation, spurred by a leaked email circulating online. Despite this confirmation, Intesa has refrained from providing insight into its strategic rationale for the move.
The transaction was initially spotlighted by Italian daily La Stampa, highlighting its transformative implications within Italy’s traditionally cautious banking sphere. This acquisition represents a measured yet meaningful departure from the sector’s established norms as financial institutions cautiously explore the potential of digital currencies.
By undertaking this purchase, Intesa Sanpaolo demonstrates a willingness to engage with the dynamic possibilities of the digital asset space, situating itself as a trailblazer among Italian banks in the realm of cryptocurrency.
Whether this step paves the way for a broader institutional embrace of such investments within Italy is a question that only time will answer. As of Jan. 2025, Intesa Sanpaolo reported total assets under management (AUM) of approximately €1.4 trillion.
The bank came into existence on Jan. 1, 2007, through the merger of Banca Intesa and Sanpaolo IMI, a union that consolidated its position as a financial powerhouse. However, Intesa Sanpaolo’s lineage extends far beyond its modern inception.
Its most venerable predecessor, Istituto Bancario San Paolo di Torino, was established in 1563. This heritage endows the institution with an impressive historical arc spanning more than 460 years, a testament to its enduring influence and adaptability within the evolving financial world. #Write2Earn

Tether Relocating to El Salvador After Receiving Stablecoin Issuer License
Tether, the company behind USDT, has announced its imminent relocation to El Salvador after receiving a stablecoin issuer license. Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, described this move as a natural progression that will allow the company to strengthen its focus on emerging markets.
Tether Moves to El Salvador to Focus on Emerging Markets
Tether, one of the largest companies in the crypto industry, has revealed it is in the final stages of moving its operations to El Salvador. The decision was taken as the company recently received a Digital Assets Service Provider (DASP) license as a stablecoin issuer, allowing it to conduct its operations in the Latam nation.
Tether stressed that the forward-thinking and crypto-friendly traits of the country’s regulation were key factors behind this action. “The move enhances Tether’s flexibility to explore groundbreaking solutions in a supportive regulatory and business environment,” it stated in a press release.
In addition, this move will allow Tether to concentrate on one of its strongest market targets: developing nations that face problems in reaching dollars through legacy institutions.
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, highlighted the relevance of this change, stressing that it will allow the company to grow in a new environment.
He declared:
This decision is a natural progression for Tether as it allows us to build a new home, foster collaboration, and strengthen our focus on emerging markets.
Ardoino also praised the development of the nation as a cryptocurrency hub, declaring it represented “a beacon of innovation in the digital assets space.”
El Salvador also benefits from this decision, welcoming an institution that registered billions in revenue during 2024 and is one of the largest private holders of U.S. debt.
The announcement comes on the heels of another milestone for the country, as it announced closing a service deal with Rumble, a video and cloud computing company, to provide cloud services for its government operations. Tether invested $775 million in Rumble in December.
As a result, Rumble will open offices in El Salvador and will develop operations in the country with local employees, helping to expand the national economy. #Write2Earn

$2.2M in Crypto Frozen by AG Letitia James, Securing Funds for Victims
A $2.2 million cryptocurrency scam targeting job seekers was halted as the NY Attorney General froze funds, uncovering fake fees and untraceable transfers.
AG James’ Bold Move Freezes $2.2M Crypto Loot From Fake Job Scammers
The Office of New York Attorney General Letitia James announced last week that James has filed a lawsuit to recover $2.2 million in cryptocurrency stolen through a sophisticated text message scam targeting individuals searching for remote work opportunities. The scammers sent unsolicited messages offering jobs with flexible hours and high pay, requiring victims to purchase cryptocurrency to participate. The announcement states:
AG James freezes $2.2 million worth of cryptocurrency, files lawsuit to recover money for defrauded New Yorkers.
In addition to recovering funds, the lawsuit seeks penalties, restitution, and damages, as well as a permanent ban on the scammers’ fraudulent activities.
The scam began with fake job offers claiming victims would earn commissions by reviewing products to generate market data. Victims were directed to open accounts on legitimate cryptocurrency platforms, such as Coinbase and Crypto.com, and purchase stablecoins like USDC and USDT. They were told the funds were needed to “legitimize” the data they were generating and assured their deposits would be refunded along with commissions.
Once victims transferred the cryptocurrency to unhosted wallets controlled by the scammers, the funds became virtually untraceable. The scammers used fake websites mimicking legitimate companies to make the process appear credible. When victims attempted to withdraw their funds, the scammers demanded additional fake fees, such as “credit score improvement” or “blockchain verification” fees, leading to further losses. In one case, a New York victim lost over $100,000.
An investigation led by the Attorney General’s Office, in collaboration with the U.S. Secret Service and the Queens County District Attorney’s Office, traced the stolen funds. “My Cryptocurrency Unit was able to identify and trace over $2 million in stolen crypto and identify the digital wallets where these coins were being held,” said Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. The announcement adds that during the course of its investigation:
OAG secured Tether Limited’s voluntary agreement and cooperation to freeze the stolen USDT, and the Queens County District Attorney’s Office secured a search warrant to freeze USDC stolen in the scam. Because the cryptocurrency has been frozen, it is available to be recovered and returned to the scammers’ victims under court approval.
#Write2Earn

Crypto ATM Numbers Approach Record High: A Steady Recovery After Industry Shocks
After a turbulent 2023 followed by a recovery in 2024, the global count of crypto-automated teller machines (ATMs) is inching closer to its former high of 39,958, achieved on Dec. 1, 2022.
Crypto ATMs Prove Resilient in Post-Terra and FTX Era, Near Record Numbers
The trajectory of crypto ATMs saw dramatic shifts following the Terra stablecoin crisis and the FTX collapse in Nov. 2022. According to coinatmradar.com, the worldwide count of crypto ATMs hit its zenith of 39,958 by Dec. 1 of that year.
Presently, the total number of these machines is only 1,092 shy of that peak. This marks a significant departure from the declines witnessed in April and July 2023. Following the all-time high, the number of machines experienced a reduction of 6,873, reaching a low of 33,085 on July 1, 2023.

Coinatmradar.com data indicates that, as of Jan. 11, 2025, there are 38,866 crypto ATMs in operation globally. Of those, 283 machines have been installed since the beginning of this year, with 157 added in December alone. November brought a net increase of 404 devices, while October 2024 saw a decline of 280.
Bitcoin Depot holds the title of the largest operator by machine count, managing 8,486 ATMs worldwide as of Jan. 11, 2025, according to coinatmradar.com stats. Coinflip follows with 5,289 machines, while Athena Bitcoin oversees 3,797 devices.

Geographic data from coinatmradar.com shows the United States dominates this space, hosting 81.3% of all crypto ATMs worldwide. On a regional level, Europe accounts for 4.3% of the machines, Oceania claims 4% and 3.5% are stationed in Australia.
Of the 38,866 devices, a vast majority—38,855—support bitcoin (BTC). Among alternative coins, litecoin (LTC) is the most widely supported, appearing on 54.2% of machines, followed by ethereum (ETH) at 53.3% and dogecoin (DOGE), which is available on 10,767 ATMs or 27.7% globally.

The global proliferation of crypto ATMs captures a compelling blend of innovation and resilience within the constantly shifting cryptocurrency sphere. As installation trends wax and wane in response to market forces, these machines serve as concrete bridges linking digital currencies to physical access points.
Their evolving distribution reflects an enduring demand for decentralized financial (defi) tools in a tangible world, shaping the future of monetary engagement. #Write2Earn