Key Events in Exchanges:
* Hack at Nobitex (Iran): Iran's largest cryptocurrency exchange, Nobitex, has been the victim of a significant hack, with a reported loss of over $90 million. A hacker group, "Gonjeshke Darande" (Predatory Sparrow), claimed responsibility for the attack and published what they say is the complete source code of the company. The hackers stated that the attack was politically motivated, accusing Nobitex of helping the Iranian government evade sanctions.
* Bitget obtains license in Georgia: Bitget, a cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has received regulatory approval in Georgia to operate as a provider of digital asset exchange services and custody wallets through the Tbilisi Free Zone (TFZ). This is part of its strategy for expansion in Eastern Europe.
* OKX integrates DEX aggregator in MetaMask: OKX has partnered with Consensys to integrate its DEX aggregator into MetaMask, providing users access to over 500 DEX and new MEV protection through SERVO.
* Kraken launches Bitcoin staking with Babylon: Kraken has announced the integration of Bitcoin (BTC) staking through Babylon's Bitcoin staking protocol. This allows Kraken customers to earn passive rewards on their BTC without the need for bridging or wrapping.
* BexBack Exchange launches promotional offers: BexBack Crypto Exchange has announced new promotions, including a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency futures trading.
* Coinbase and Bullish plan to go public: Several cryptocurrency exchanges, including Bullish and Gemini, have announced their intentions to go public, with increased institutional interest as markets mature and regulations evolve. Circle has also revived its IPO plans for 2025.
Relevant news in the Cryptocurrency market:
* Bitcoin (BTC) prices: Bitcoin has been fluctuating in a narrow range, staying above $100,000 but with a slight decline today, trading around $104,000-$105,000. Analysts suggest that Bitcoin is likely to consolidate at current levels. Tensions in the Middle East and Federal Reserve (Fed) decisions remain key factors.
* Stablecoins in the spotlight: U.S. President Donald Trump praised a bill aimed at regulating stablecoins (GENIUS Act) and called for its immediate approval. Experts predict that euro-based stablecoins could challenge dollar dominance by 2028.
* Massive password leak: A leak of 16 billion passwords from services like Apple, Google, and Facebook has raised fears about crypto security and poses serious risks for cryptocurrency holders.
* Institutional interest in crypto: BBVA has suggested to its clients to allocate 7% of their portfolio to cryptocurrencies, indicating growing institutional interest.
* $225 million in stolen crypto seized: The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is taking steps to seize over $225 million in cryptocurrencies stolen from U.S. citizens in fraud schemes and romance scams, tracking the funds through blockchain analysis.
Overall, the day has been marked by regulatory and security activity in the exchange space, as well as the continued evolution of cryptocurrencies in the global financial landscape.