CryptoPress

Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) has decided not to run for reelection in 2026, ending her Senate term in 2027.

As a prominent crypto supporter, her departure represents a loss for the digital assets industry amid ongoing legislative efforts.

Rep. Harriet Hageman is reportedly considering a bid for the open seat.

U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis, a key figure in promoting cryptocurrency-friendly policies, announced on December 19, 2025, that she will retire from the Senate at the end of her current term.

The Wyoming Republican, aged 71, explained her decision stems from the toll of exhaustive legislative sessions, despite earlier plans to seek another term.

“Deciding not to run for reelection does represent a change of heart for me, but in the difficult, exhausting session weeks this fall, I’ve come to accept that I do not have six more years in me,” Lummis stated in an official announcement on X.

Thank you, Wyoming! Serving our state has been the honor of my life. – Cynthia Lummis pic.twitter.com/FoRTlHaHxI

— Cynthia Lummis (@CynthiaMLummis) December 19, 2025

Lummis has been instrumental in shaping crypto legislation, including leading negotiations on a bipartisan stablecoin bill that passed into law in July 2025. She remains involved in broader discussions for a comprehensive digital assets regulatory framework.

Her advocacy has spotlighted innovations in blockchain technology, with assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum gaining traction under supportive policies.

However, her exit could complicate the industry’s push for clarity in regulations, as negotiations have proven challenging. Industry experts note potential risks, such as increased volatility without balanced oversight, echoing concerns from past events.

For context on her prior initiatives, see this related article on her Bitcoin reserve proposal from Cryptopress.site.

The open Wyoming Senate seat is expected to attract candidates, with sources indicating Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) may enter the race soon.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post US Senator Cynthia Lummis, Leading Crypto Advocate, Announces Retirement appeared first on Cryptopress.

The Search Engine Optimization (SEO) landscape has shifted seismically. For years, crypto projects fought tooth and nail for the top spot on Google’s results page.

But today, users aren’t just “Googling” new protocols; they are asking ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Google’s AI Overviews to synthesize information for them.

If your project isn’t being cited in these AI-generated answers, you are practically invisible to a massive segment of modern investors and users.

How do you ensure your Web3 project is the answer the AI provides? The secret lies in understanding how these Large Language Models (LLMs) determine what is relevant right now.

As the graphic below illustrates, the new ranking factors are Freshness and Citation Velocity.

Here is why a strategy of consistent, periodic press releases is the ultimate tool for leveraging these factors in the fast-paced crypto world.

1. The “Freshness” Factor: Feeding the Beast

The image highlights a crucial truth: “Stale dominance fades quickly.”

In traditional SEO, an authoritative whitepaper written in 2021 might have held its ranking for years. In the era of AI, that document is ancient history. AI models are hungry for the now. They prioritize the most current information to ensure their answers aren’t outdated.

Furthermore, the image notes that “Recency breaks ties between equally authoritative sources.”

Imagine an AI trying to recommend a “leading decentralized exchange.” If DEX A and DEX B have similar liquidity and history, but DEX A issued a press release yesterday about a new partnership, while DEX B hasn’t made an announcement in three months, the AI will favor DEX A because the information is fresher.

The Crypto Context: The crypto market operates 24/7 at breakneck speed. A project that goes silent for a month is often presumed dead. Regular press releases—announcing protocol upgrades, new staking pools, or strategic alliances—provide the necessary “pulse” that tells AI models your project is active, relevant, and worth citing today.

2. Driving “Citation Velocity” Through Momentum

The second major shift is towards Citation Velocity. This isn’t just about having backlinks; it’s about the rate at which you are acquiring new mentions.

As the infographic states, “Sustained visibility now beats legacy size.” This is massive news for newer crypto projects. You don’t need to be Bitcoin or Ethereum to rank in AI answers; you just need more current momentum.

AI models track how often your brand appears across trusted sources over time. A single, massive launch announcement that fades into silence creates poor citation velocity.

Conversely, a steady drumbeat of news creates high velocity.

How PR Creates Velocity:

When you distribute a press release through a crypto-specialized wire service, it doesn’t just sit on one site. It gets picked up by multiple industry outlets, news aggregators, and trading terminals.

Every time an outlet publishes your release, it counts as a fresh “mention” from a “trusted source.” By issuing periodic releases (e.g., bi-weekly or monthly), you create a verifiable wave of momentum that signals to AI: “This project is important right now.”

Consistency is Key

In the fight for visibility in AI-generated answers, sporadically dropping a major announcement isn’t enough. To ensure LLMs recognize your crypto project as a leading authority, you must feed them a consistent diet of credible news.

By committing to periodic press releases, you leverage the twin engines of Freshness and Citation Velocity, ensuring that when investors ask an AI about the next big thing in crypto, your project is the answer.

The post Fresh wins: How Periodic Press Releases Help Your Crypto Project Dominate AI Answers appeared first on Cryptopress.

The US Senate voted 53-43 to confirm Mike Selig as chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and Travis Hill as chair of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC).

Both nominees, selected by President Donald Trump, are viewed as supportive of cryptocurrency, with Selig pledging to prioritize digital assets and Hill addressing debanking concerns.

The appointments could enhance regulatory clarity for crypto, including oversight of derivatives and stablecoins, amid pending legislation.

TThe US Senate has confirmed two key regulators with pro-crypto leanings, marking a potential shift in the oversight of digital assets under the incoming Trump administration.

On Thursday, December 18, 2025, lawmakers approved Mike Selig to lead the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and Travis Hill to head the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC) in a 53-43 vote. The confirmations were part of a broader package of nominees.

Selig, a lawyer with prior experience at the CFTC and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), succeeds Acting Chair Caroline Pham. He has committed to making cryptocurrency a priority, stating he will “work tirelessly to make the US the global crypto capital.” His term extends until April 2029.

Hill, who has been serving as acting FDIC chair, has taken steps to ease restrictions on banks engaging with crypto firms. In a recent hearing, he noted, “We undid the policy of the past few years. Banks are expected to manage the safety and soundness risk, but otherwise have no prohibitions to serving those industries.” Hill’s term runs through 2030.

The CFTC is poised to play a larger role in crypto regulation, particularly if a bipartisan Senate bill introduced in November passes, shifting primary oversight from the SEC. This could include expanded authority over spot trading of assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). Meanwhile, the FDIC will continue regulating stablecoin issuers and addressing banking access for the industry. (FXStreet)

Industry leaders welcomed the news. Coinbase‘s chief policy officer, Faryar Shirzad, posted on X that Selig’s “experience in crypto and as a federal regulator will ensure that America’s crypto market is governed with fairness, clarity and an abiding commitment to the law.”

Congratulations @MikeSeligEsq on your confirmation to lead @CFTC. Mike is exceptionally well-suited for the role. His experience in crypto and as a federal regulator will ensure that America’s crypto market is governed with fairness, clarity and an abiding commitment to the law.… https://t.co/6NXWE8asAN

— Faryar Shirzad (@faryarshirzad) December 19, 2025

These appointments come as the crypto sector seeks greater clarity amid ongoing debates over regulation. While supportive, they also highlight potential risks, such as ensuring consumer protection in volatile markets.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post US Senate Confirms Crypto-Friendly Nominees to Lead CFTC and FDIC appeared first on Cryptopress.

Visa announced the launch of USDC settlement capabilities for U.S. issuer and acquirerpartners on December 16, 2025.

Initial participants include Cross River Bank and Lead Bank, with settlements occurring over the Solana blockchain.

The expansion follows a pilot program that achieved over $3.5 billion in annualized stablecoin settlement volume as of November 30, 2025.

Visa plans a broader rollout throughout 2026 and will support Circle’s upcoming Arc blockchain as a design partner.

Visa has officially extended its stablecoin settlement program to the United States, allowing select financial institutions to settle transactions using Circle’s USDC stablecoin on the Solana blockchain. This move, announced on December 16, 2025, marks a significant step in integrating blockchain technology into traditional payment systems. The initiative is supported by recent regulatory clarity, including a federal stablecoin framework signed into law in July 2025.

Cross River Bank and Lead Bank are the first participants in the U.S. program. These banks can now handle back-end settlements with Visa using USDC, enabling faster and more efficient treasury operations. According to Visa, this provides 24/7 settlement capabilities, automated processes, and improved liquidity management for institutions.

Visa Launches USDC Stablecoin Settlement for U.S. Banks on Solana https://t.co/ejSpD7qtcp #breaking #news

— Cryptopress (@CryptoPress_ok) December 16, 2025

The program builds on Visa’s global stablecoin pilots, which began in 2023 and have processed over $3.5 billion in annualized volume as of November 30, 2025 (Visa). Visa emphasized that the expansion responds to demand from banking partners seeking programmable money solutions while maintaining compliance and security standards.

Visa is also collaborating with Circle on its new Arc Layer 1 blockchain, where it will serve as a design partner and operate a validator node upon launch. This partnership aims to further enhance stablecoin infrastructure for institutional use. Circle’s USDC, a fully reserved dollar-pegged stablecoin, is central to the settlements.

In a statement, Rubail Birwadker, Visa’s global head of growth products and strategic partnerships, said: “Visa is expanding stablecoin settlement because our banking partners are not only asking about it—they’re preparing to use it”.

Gilles Gade, founder, president, and CEO of Cross River Bank, added: “Fintech and crypto innovators increasingly ask us to bring stablecoins into their existing product suite. A unified platform that natively supports both stablecoins and traditional payment networks is the foundation for how value will move globally”.

While the rollout promises efficiency gains, analysts note potential risks, including blockchain volatility and regulatory scrutiny. Solana, the underlying network, has experienced outages in the past, though recent upgrades aim to address reliability concerns.

Circle co-founder Jeremy Allaire highlighted the development on X, calling it “a powerful milestone in the mainstream adoption and acceptance of USDC” (@jerallaire).

A powerful milestone in the mainstream adoption and acceptance of USDC, with Visa announcing that all US card issuers (banks, fintechs, crypto firms) can now settle directly with Visa using USDC.  Visa also working with Circle to prepare for launching on @Arc.Dollar digital… pic.twitter.com/c7ilmCrXWY

— Jeremy Allaire – jda.eth / jdallaire.sol (@jerallaire) December 16, 2025

The expansion could accelerate stablecoin adoption in core financial services, but institutions should weigh integration costs and compliance requirements. For more on this development, see the related article on Cryptopress.site.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post Visa Launches USDC Stablecoin Settlement for U.S. Banks on Solana appeared first on Cryptopress.

Quick Take:

Merlijn The Trader highlights multi-year bullish patterns in altcoin market cap, signaling potential for a significant breakout.

Current market conditions show altcoins lagging Bitcoin, with the Altcoin Season Index at cycle lows around 16-19.

Analysts note fragmented performance and caution that a full altseason may require further Bitcoin consolidation or dominance breakdown.

Crypto analyst Merlijn The Trader continues to forecast a substantial altcoin rally, drawing on historical chart patterns that have preceded major surges in previous cycles.

The trader, known for his technical analysis on X with over 400,000 followers, has pointed to formations like a multi-year “cup and handle” in the altcoin market capitalization chart (excluding Bitcoin and Ethereum). Such setups, often referred to by Merlijn as a “cup of destruction,” suggest coiled momentum that could release into parabolic gains upon breaking resistance.

Recent observations from Merlijn include Bitcoin dominance showing signs of topping and potential breakdowns, historically leading to capital rotation into altcoins. He has also noted Ethereum’s relative strength against Bitcoin as a precursor to broader altcoin outperformance, mirroring 2021 dynamics.

However, as of mid-December 2025, broader market data paints a more cautious picture. CoinDesk reports indicate Bitcoin holding firm while altcoins continue to underperform, with the CoinMarketCap Altcoin Season Index lingering at cycle lows near 16-19 out of 100. This reflects persistent Bitcoin dominance and thin liquidity in riskier assets amid year-end choppiness.

Traders are monitoring key levels, including potential retests of Bitcoin dominance support and altcoin market cap triangles that could resolve downward for a final flush before upside. While Merlijn maintains optimism for an imminent “significant rise,” timing remains uncertain, dependent on liquidity inflows and confirmed dominance reversals.

Market participants should note that crypto cycles are volatile, and past patterns do not guarantee future outcomes. Selective narratives, such as AI or privacy coins, have shown isolated strength, but a widespread altseason has yet to materialize.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post Crypto Analyst Merlijn The Trader Eyes Significant Altcoin Rally Amid Ongoing Consolidation appeared first on Cryptopress.

Visa has launched stablecoin settlement capabilities in the United States, allowing select issuer and acquirer partners to settle obligations on its network using Circle’s USDC stablecoin over the Solana blockchain.

The global payments giant announced the rollout on Tuesday, marking a major expansion of its stablecoin program into the domestic market. Initial participants include Cross River Bank and Lead Bank, both of which have already begun settling in USDC on Solana (Visa press release).

The service enables near-instant, programmable settlement with 24/7 availability, including weekends and holidays, while preserving the existing consumer card experience. It aims to modernize treasury operations and bridge traditional rails with blockchain infrastructure.

“Visa is expanding stablecoin settlement because our banking partners are not only asking about it — they’re preparing to use it,” said Rubail Birwadker, Visa’s global head of growth products and strategic partnerships (The Block).

The U.S. launch follows years of international pilots, with Visa’s stablecoin settlement volume reaching a $3.5 billion annualized run rate as of November 30, 2025 (CoinDesk). Broader availability is planned throughout 2026.

Visa is also a design partner for Circle’s Arc, a new Layer 1 blockchain currently in public testnet, and intends to support USDC settlement on Arc while operating a validator node once it launches.

The development comes amid a more supportive regulatory environment following the passage of federal stablecoin legislation earlier in 2025 (Bloomberg). Industry observers note the move underscores institutional demand for compliant, high-throughput digital dollar rails.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post Visa Launches USDC Stablecoin Settlement for U.S. Banks on Solana appeared first on Cryptopress.

PayPal seeks bank status: The company has applied to create PayPal Bank in Utah to bolster small business lending and offer interest-bearing savings.

Crypto angle: As issuer of PYUSD, the move could integrate stablecoin settlements into regulated banking.

Regulatory context: Follows recent approvals for crypto firms like Circle and Paxos.

PayPal Holdings has submitted applications to establish an industrial bank in Utah, marking a significant step toward greater financial autonomy. The proposed PayPal Bank aims to provide more efficient lending solutions to U.S. small businesses while reducing reliance on external partners. This development comes as PayPal deepens its involvement in digital assets.

Key objectives include originating loans directly, holding customer deposits with FDIC insurance, and gaining direct access to card networks. According to PayPal’s official announcement, the charter will enable the firm to support small business growth more effectively.

PayPal Seeks Bank Status PayPal is moving to establish a Utah-chartered bank to enhance its payments and lending operations.

— Cryptopress (@CryptoPress_ok) December 16, 2025

PayPal CEO Alex Chriss emphasized the challenges faced by entrepreneurs: “Securing capital remains a significant hurdle for small businesses striving to grow and scale. Establishing PayPal Bank will strengthen our business and improve our efficiency, enabling us to better support small business growth and economic opportunities across the U.S.”

Crypto implications are notable. As the issuer of the PYUSD stablecoin in partnership with Paxos, PayPal could leverage the bank charter to enhance crypto-linked services. This includes merchant acceptance of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, with conversions to stablecoins or fiat, as highlighted by Decrypt.

The application aligns with a broader regulatory shift. Recent approvals for crypto firms like Circle, Paxos, and Ripple to pursue banking activities signal a more permissive environment under the current administration.

Balanced analysis shows risks. While the charter offers flexibility—Utah industrial banks avoid Bank Holding Company Act restrictions—it subjects PayPal to rigorous oversight similar to commercial banks. Experts note potential challenges in navigating FDIC requirements and maintaining compliance in crypto operations.

LATEST: PayPal applies to become a US bank. pic.twitter.com/X50wHy7Zud

— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) December 15, 2025

A related article on PYUSD can be found at Cryptopress.site.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post PayPal Applies for Utah Industrial Bank Charter Amid Crypto Expansion Push appeared first on Cryptopress.

From Silver to Smart – Litecoin’s Next Evolution

You could soon be holding Litecoin (LTC) in your wallet, not just as a fast payment tool, but as fuel for a thriving world of decentralized finance (DeFi), tokenized real-world assets like gold or real estate, and even AI-powered apps that earn you yields automatically. No more high fees or slow confirmations holding you back. This isn’t a distant dream—it’s the reality LitVM is building right now on Litecoin.

Launched in May 2025 at the Litecoin Summit in Las Vegas, LitVM marks a pivotal shift for Litecoin, often called the “silver to Bitcoin’s gold.” Created by Charlie Lee in 2011 as a lighter, faster alternative to Bitcoin, Litecoin has excelled in everyday transactions with its 2.5-minute block times and fees under a penny. But until LitVM, it lacked the programmability that powers ecosystems like Ethereum. As a zero-knowledge (ZK) rollup Layer 2 solution, LitVM brings Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility to Litecoin, enabling smart contracts, cross-chain bridges, and a host of new applications—all while keeping Litecoin’s core strengths intact.

We’ll break down what LitVM is, how it works, and most importantly, what it means for you as a user. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into crypto or an intermediate holder looking to maximize your LTC, we’ll use simple analogies, historical context, and real-world examples to make it accessible. No hype here—just timeless insights into how this innovation could reshape blockchain usability.

What Is LitVM and Why Build It on Litecoin?

To understand LitVM, let’s start with the basics. Litecoin is a proof-of-work (PoW) blockchain, similar to Bitcoin, focused on secure, decentralized payments. It uses the Scrypt algorithm for mining, which makes it more accessible than Bitcoin’s SHA-256, and has a fixed supply of 84 million coins—four times Bitcoin’s cap—to mimic silver’s abundance relative to gold.

But Litecoin’s Layer 1 (L1) design, while efficient for transfers, doesn’t natively support smart contracts. Smart contracts are self-executing programs that run automatically when conditions are met, like a vending machine that dispenses a snack once you insert the right coins—no middleman needed. This limitation meant Litecoin missed out on the DeFi boom, NFTs, and other Web3 innovations that exploded on Ethereum.

Enter Layer 2 solutions. Think of L1 as the busy highway foundation, handling core security and consensus. Layer 2 is like building express lanes on top, processing transactions off the main chain for speed and cost savings, then “rolling up” batches back to L1 for final settlement. LitVM is a zkRollup Layer 2, meaning it uses zero-knowledge proofs—mathematical tricks that verify transactions without revealing details—to bundle thousands of operations into one efficient proof.

What makes LitVM special? It’s the first EVM-compatible L2 on Litecoin. EVM is the runtime environment that powers Ethereum, allowing developers to write code in languages like Solidity. Compatibility means Ethereum tools, dApps, and assets can seamlessly port over to LitVM, bridging two worlds. Powered by technologies like BitcoinOS for trustless bridging, Arbitrum Nitro for scalable rollups, Espresso for decentralized sequencing, and Succinct’s zkVM for hybrid optimistic-ZK security, LitVM achieves thousands of transactions per second (TPS) at sub-cent fees—compared to Litecoin L1’s ~50 TPS and Ethereum’s often $10+ gas costs.

Historically, Litecoin has been a testing ground for Bitcoin upgrades, like Segregated Witness (SegWit) in 2017 for better scalability and Mimblewimble Extension Blocks (MWEB) in 2022 for privacy. LitVM builds on this legacy, addressing Litecoin’s programmability gap as Web3 evolves. With Litecoin’s market cap hovering around $6 billion in December 2025 and over 300,000 daily active addresses, LitVM positions it to compete in high-growth sectors without compromising its payment roots.

How LitVM Works Step-by-Step

Let’s analogize LitVM to a high-speed train system built on Litecoin’s tracks:

Off-Chain Processing: Users interact with dApps on LitVM. Transactions are executed off the Litecoin L1, in a secure environment using EVM tools. This is like passengers boarding trains at side stations, avoiding mainline congestion.

Batching and Compression: Thousands of transactions are bundled (rolled up) into a single batch. Zero-knowledge proofs compress this data, proving validity without sharing every detail—similar to a notary stamping a document bundle as authentic.

Settlement on L1: The ZK proof is submitted to Litecoin’s blockchain for final verification. BitcoinOS enables trustless bridging of assets like LTC, Bitcoin (BTC), Ordinals, Runes, and LTC-20 tokens, ensuring no central party controls the funds.

Dual Settlement with Ethereum: For extra liquidity, LitVM settles on Ethereum too, tapping into its $400 billion ecosystem. Espresso’s shared sequencing ensures censorship-resistant ordering, preventing manipulation.

Privacy and Interoperability: Leveraging MWEB, transactions can be shielded. Cross-chain composability allows seamless interactions with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and beyond—think of it as universal adapters connecting different power outlets.

This hybrid architecture (optimistic rollups with ZK upgrades) offers fast finality (sub-100ms pre-confirmations) and economic security, making LitVM versatile for retail and enterprise use.

Real-World Applications

For users, LitVM democratizes advanced crypto features. No longer confined to simple transfers, your LTC becomes a gateway to:

DeFi Opportunities: Trade LTC or BTC on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) with low-fee AMM swaps. Borrow against your holdings or farm yields—imagine earning interest on LTC through institutional strategies, previously inaccessible to retail users.

Tokenized Real-World Assets (RWAs): Tokenize assets like real estate or commodities (e.g., silver-backed tokens). Fractional ownership via smart contracts lets you invest in slices of property, secured by Litecoin’s PoW.

AI-Integrated Apps: LitVM supports AI agents that manage wallets, trade autonomously, or create user-friendly Web3 experiences. For beginners, this means apps that onboard you effortlessly, using LTC for computations.

Enhanced Payments and Gaming: Microtransactions for games or subscriptions become feasible with sub-cent fees. Play-to-earn models reward in LTC-20 tokens, while NFTs (via Ordinals) trade on marketplaces with royalties.

Case Study: In emerging markets with high inflation, like Argentina (where Litecoin adoption ranks high), users could use LitVM for stablecoin rails backed by LTC, hedging against currency devaluation. A real-user story from X highlights how LitVM’s yield markets could provide sustainable income: “LitVM could be big” for everyday holders seeking privacy and speed.

Comparisons show LitVM’s edge:

Feature Litecoin L1 LitVM L2 Ethereum L2 (e.g., Arbitrum) TPS ~50 Thousands Thousands Fees <$0.01 Sub-cent ~$0.10-$1 EVM Compatible No Yes Yes Privacy MWEB (optional) ZK + MWEB Varies Interoperability Limited Bitcoin/Ethereum+ Ethereum-focused

This table illustrates how LitVM enhances Litecoin without Ethereum’s congestion.

Challenges and Risks: Navigating the Roadblocks

No innovation is without hurdles. LitVM’s ZK tech, while secure, relies on complex cryptography—vulnerabilities in proofs could risk funds, though audits from partners like Arbitrum mitigate this.

Adoption is another challenge: Developers must migrate from Ethereum’s mature ecosystem. LitVM counters with grants, hackathons, and community-driven tokenomics (51% of tokens for Litecoin holders), fostering growth.

Regulatory risks loom, especially for RWAs and DeFi. Privacy features like MWEB could attract scrutiny, but LitVM’s focus on compliant, trustless designs (e.g., “sound money Web3”) aims to align with evolving laws.

Security incidents in L2s, like past bridge hacks, underscore the need for caution. Users should start small, use hardware wallets, and verify bridges.

Solutions include decentralized sequencing via Espresso to prevent single points of failure, and hybrid security for robust finality.

Future Outlook: LitVM’s Role in a Multi-Chain World

Looking ahead, LitVM could elevate Litecoin to a Web3 powerhouse. With BitcoinOS enabling Charms tokens and AI ecosystems, it positions LTC for sectors like staked media or prediction markets, as noted in recent crypto discussions. By 2030, as Web3 prioritizes interoperability, LitVM’s omnichain design could drive LTC adoption, potentially boosting its utility-driven value.

Societal impacts? It empowers underserved users with accessible finance, reducing reliance on banks. Economically, it creates demand for LTC as gas, yielding opportunities for holders.

As shown in the graph above, Litecoin’s price stability post-LitVM launch suggests growing confidence.

Conclusion

LitVM transforms Litecoin from a payment coin into a programmable ecosystem, making EVM-compatible smart contracts accessible with low costs and high speed. For users, it means practical tools like DeFi yields, private payments, and AI apps—explained simply: faster, cheaper, and more versatile crypto without leaving Litecoin’s secure foundation.

Ready to explore? Start by bridging LTC to LitVM via its official platform, experiment with a DEX, or join the community for grants. Remember, always research and use trusted wallets.

Subscribe to Cryptopress.site for more insights on blockchain fundamentals, or explore related articles like “Understanding zkRollups” and “Litecoin’s Privacy Evolution with MWEB.” Your crypto education starts here—let’s build a decentralized future together.

The post LitVM: The First EVM-Compatible Layer 2 on Litecoin – Smart Contracts for Everyday Users appeared first on Cryptopress.

The crypto market in mid-December 2025 remains under pressure, with total capitalization hovering around $3.15 trillion after a 0.5% daily decline. Bitcoin has struggled below $90,000, influenced by broader risk-off sentiment tied to AI stock concerns and a hawkish Federal Reserve rate cut that failed to ignite sustained rallies. Altcoins have underperformed, with the Fear and Greed Index entrenched in extreme fear.

Main news: Ripple’s Regulatory Breakthrough and XRP Momentum

The standout development this week centers on Ripple’s growing institutional legitimacy. Ripple Labs secured a national trust bank charter from the OCC, enabling it to operate as a regulated financial entity. This milestone, coupled with a front-page New York Times feature on December 15 highlighting the SEC’s softened enforcement stance—including reduced penalties in Ripple-related cases—signals a pivotal shift in U.S. crypto regulation.

XRP has directly benefited, with U.S. spot XRP ETFs recording over $100 million in weekly inflows, pushing cumulative inflows near $1 billion since launch. Additionally, Hex Trust’s launch of wrapped XRP (wXRP) on Ethereum, Solana, Optimism, and HyperEVM unlocked new DeFi utility, starting with $100 million TVL. These factors provide a counter-narrative to the broader market downturn, positioning XRP as a beneficiary of regulatory clarity and cross-chain expansion.

This momentum could sustain XRP’s relative strength if inflows continue, though it remains vulnerable to Bitcoin’s dominance in risk sentiment.

Other news:

Positive

WET token surges 28%+ after Upbit and Bithumb listings in Korea.

Strong XRP and Chainlink digital asset inflows ($245M and $52.8M respectively).

Neutral

Bitwise amends Hyperliquid ETF filing, nearing potential approval.

ZIGChain mainnet launches on Bybit.

Negative

Bitcoin price correction deepens below $90K post-Fed cut.

Standard Chartered halves 2025 BTC forecast to $100K.

Michael Saylor warns on Strategy index risks.

Solana validators drop 68%, raising decentralization concerns.

What coins are moving the most lately?…

Recent movers include WET (up 28%+ on Korean exchange listings) and select altcoins, showing resilience amid broader declines. XRP has outperformed with ETF inflows and wrapped token utility, boosting liquidity.

However, the market lacks clear buying opportunities due to extreme fear sentiment, reduced liquidity, and pending macro risks like the Bank of Japan’s potential rate hike. No strong buy signals emerge for major coins at present.

Bitcoin remains the benchmark, trading near $90,000 after failing to hold post-Fed gains. Its price evolution reflects ongoing correction from October highs near $126,000.

The post Crypto Weekly Snapshot – Bitcoin Dips Below $90K as Ripple and XRP Shine in Regulatory Shift appeared first on Cryptopress.

Bitcoin price action shows increased volatility, dipping to $87,600 before recovering slightly to around $89,400.

The Crypto Fear and Greed Index has dropped to 17, signaling extreme fear for over 30% of the past year.

Michael Saylor hinted at further Bitcoin acquisitions by MicroStrategy amid the price decline.

Key support levels at $88,500 hyphen $89,000 are under test, with risks of a drop to $80,000 if breached.

Bitcoin experienced renewed volatility on December 15, 2025, falling below $88,000 amid persistent bearish pressure. The leading cryptocurrency dipped to $87,600 during Sunday trading, erasing recent gains and highlighting ongoing market uncertainty. Analysts note that this move comes after a period of extreme low volatility, with traders anticipating a significant price shift.

Market sentiment has shifted dramatically, with the Crypto Fear and Greed Index registering at 17, firmly in extreme fear territory. This level has persisted for more than 30% of the past year, reflecting investor caution following Bitcoin’s 30% decline from its all-time high. The index’s reading aligns with broader equity market fears, as seen in the CNN Fear and Greed Index at 42.

Michael Saylor Hints at Next Bitcoin Buy Bitcoin fell to $87,600 amid more Sunday selling pressure, while Michael Saylor hinted that Strategy would buy more.

— Cryptopress (@CryptoPress_ok) December 15, 2025

The price drop coincides with technical indicators flashing bearish signals. A November death cross marked a local bottom near $80,000, but current moving averages remain pessimistic across timeframes. Oscillators show neutrality, with RSI at 43 and MACD negative, suggesting weak momentum that could lead to further downside if supports fail.

Michael Saylor, MicroStrategy’s founder, hinted at additional Bitcoin purchases, potentially providing a bullish counterpoint. “Don’t wait until your banker tells you to buy Bitcoin,” Saylor posted on X earlier this year, underscoring his long-term bullish stance (via X). Such moves by institutional players could bolster prices, but liquidity worries persist after Bitcoin shed Fed-fueled gains last week.

Don’t wait until your banker tells you to buy Bitcoin.https://t.co/7brBqMKAOI

— Michael Saylor (@saylor) October 24, 2025

Support levels are critical. Bitcoin is clinging to $88,500 ~ $89,000, with trading volume at $35.66 billion in the last 24 hours. A break below could target $80,500 ~ $82,000, while resistance looms at $90,600. For context, Bitcoin and Ethereum prices reflect similar market pressures.

Analysts warn of risks, noting that every death cross this cycle has signaled a bottom, but current conditions differ due to macroeconomic factors. “The latest death cross in November has so far marked a bottom of around $80,000,” according to market observers (CoinDesk).

For more on Bitcoin’s recent dip, see this related article: Bitcoin Falls Below $90,000 Amid Extreme Market Fear.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post Bitcoin Dips Below $88K as Volatility Returns and Fear Dominates Market Sentiment appeared first on Cryptopress.

Imagine paying pennies for transactions on a network that powers billions in decentralized finance, NFTs, and real-world assets—while the underlying blockchain remains secure and decentralized. That’s the promise Ethereum has been chasing since its inception. On December 3, 2025, the Ethereum network successfully activated its latest major upgrade: Fusaka (a blend of “Fulu” for the consensus layer and “Osaka” for the execution layer).

This upgrade, the second hard fork of 2025 following Pectra in May, isn’t about flashy new features for end-users. Instead, it’s a foundational improvement focused on scalability and efficiency for Layer 2 (L2) solutions. Fusaka builds on the rollup-centric roadmap, dramatically increasing data availability and reducing costs for the ecosystems built on Ethereum—like Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, and zkSync—that now handle the vast majority of daily activity.

For beginners: Ethereum’s base layer (Layer 1 or L1) is secure but historically slow and expensive during peak times. L2 networks bundle transactions off-chain and post compressed data back to L1 for security. Fusaka supercharges this process, paving the way for Ethereum to support millions more users without compromising its core principles.

Historical Context: Ethereum’s Journey to Scalability

Ethereum’s scaling challenges date back to its early days. In 2017, CryptoKitties—a simple NFT game—nearly brought the network to a halt, with transaction fees soaring and blocks filling up.

Vitalik Buterin and the community outlined a long-term roadmap: The Merge (2022) shifted to Proof-of-Stake for energy efficiency; Shanghai/Shapella (2023) enabled staking withdrawals; Dencun (March 2024) introduced “blobs” via EIP-4844, slashing L2 fees by over 90%; and Pectra (May 2025) refined staking and increased blob capacity to 6-9 per block.

Fusaka continues this evolution during the “Surge” phase of the roadmap, aiming for 100,000+ transactions per second (TPS) across L2s. It reflects Ethereum’s shift to a twice-yearly upgrade cadence, allowing faster iteration without rushing risky changes.

Key predecessors:

Dencun’s blobs: Temporary data packets for L2s, replacing expensive calldata.

Pectra’s tweaks: Improved validator economics and minor blob boosts.

Fusaka takes these further, addressing the growing demand as L2 TVL (total value locked) surpasses hundreds of billions and real-world assets (RWAs) tokenize trillions.

Core Explanations: How Fusaka Works

At its heart, Fusaka introduces Peer Data Availability Sampling (PeerDAS), the headline feature enabling massive blob scaling.

What Are Blobs, and Why Do They Matter?

Introduced in Dencun, blobs are ephemeral data attachments to blocks—cheap, temporary storage for L2 rollups. Pre-Fusaka, nodes had to download and store every full blob to verify availability, limiting safe increases.

PeerDAS changes this:

Blobs are erasure-coded (split with redundancy).

Nodes sample small portions via peer-to-peer networking.

Cryptographic guarantees ensure full data availability without everyone downloading everything.

This reduces bandwidth needs dramatically, allowing blob capacity to scale from ~9 per block to targets of 15, 21, or even higher via future adjustments.

Blob Parameter Only (BPO) Forks

A clever innovation: Post-Fusaka, blob limits can increase through lightweight “config-only” forks—no full client upgrades needed. Planned BPOs started shortly after activation, gradually ramping capacity.

Other Key EIPs in Fusaka

Higher gas limits: Default raised to ~60 million per block, boosting L1 throughput.

DoS protections: Tighter limits on resource-intensive operations.

History expiry support: Nodes can prune old data, reducing storage bloat.

Developer tools: Precompiles and optimizations for better EVM efficiency.

Analogy: Think of Ethereum as a highway. Dencun added express lanes (blobs) for L2 traffic. Fusaka widens those lanes and installs smart tolls (sampling) so more cars flow without gridlock.

Upgrade Blobs per Block (Target/Max) Approx. L2 Cost Impact TPS Potential (Across L2s) Dencun (2024) 3/6 Fees drop 90%+ ~10,000-20,000 Pectra (2025) 6/9 Moderate reductions ~50,000 Fusaka (2025+) 9+ (scaling to 21+) 40-90% further drops post-activation 100,000+

(Data approximated from ethereum.org and post-upgrade analyses.) Applications and Real-World Examples

Fusaka’s benefits shine in L2 ecosystems:

DeFi: Protocols on Base or Arbitrum saw transaction costs dip further post-activation, enabling micro-transactions and higher volume.

RWAs and Stablecoins: Ethereum leads with $166B+ in stablecoins and $12B+ tokenized assets—lower DA costs attract more institutional flows.

Gaming and Social: High-throughput L2s like zkSync can now support complex on-chain games without prohibitive fees.

Case study: Post-Dencun, Base TVL exploded from billions to tens of billions. Fusaka amplified this, with early data showing 27%+ weekly transaction growth on rollups and blob fees compressing sharply.

Comparisons:

Pros vs. Competitors: Unlike monolithic chains, Ethereum’s rollups inherit L1 security. Fusaka makes dedicated DA layers (e.g., Celestia) less necessary, as Ethereum’s capacity now rivals or exceeds them (up to 16MB/block potential).

Cons: Still modular—users interact via L2 bridges, adding minor complexity.

Challenges and Risks

No upgrade is risk-free:

Activation Risks: Though successful, hard forks require node operators to update—delays or bugs could cause temporary issues (mitigated by extensive testnets).

Centralization Concerns: Higher capacity helps solo stakers, but liquid staking dominance persists.

Adoption Lag: Fee reductions take time to reflect fully; some L2s adjusted slowly post-launch.

Competition: Faster rivals push innovation, but Ethereum’s developer ecosystem and security remain unmatched.

Solutions: Community governance, bug bounties ($2M+ for Fusaka), and incremental BPOs ensure safe scaling.

Societal Impact: Cheaper, scalable Ethereum democratizes finance—emerging markets access DeFi, creators monetize directly, and institutions tokenize assets securely.

Future Outlook

Fusaka bridges to full danksharding and beyond:

Short-term: Ongoing BPOs push blobs higher, targeting sub-cent L2 transactions.

2026: Glamsterdam: Potential block time reductions, parallel execution.

Long-term: 1M+ TPS, Verkle trees for stateless clients, ultimate “Purge” for efficiency.

Ethereum’s maturity—decade-old, battle-tested—positions it as Web3’s settlement layer. Fusaka reinforces this without hype: steady, infrastructure-focused progress.

Conclusion

The Fusaka upgrade, activated smoothly on December 3, 2025, marks Ethereum’s continued commitment to scalable, decentralized innovation. By enhancing data availability for L2s, it lowers barriers for users and builders alike, fostering broader adoption in DeFi, RWAs, and beyond.

Whether you’re a beginner exploring crypto or an intermediate user staking ETH, Fusaka’s improvements make the ecosystem more accessible and efficient.

Practical advice: Use L2 wallets like those on Base or Arbitrum for everyday transactions. Monitor blob fees on sites like dune.com for optimal timing.

Subscribe to Cryptopress.site for more deep dives into blockchain fundamentals. Explore related articles on the Ethereum roadmap or Layer 2 solutions.

The post Ethereum’s Fusaka Upgrade appeared first on Cryptopress.

Tether has made a binding proposal to buy Exor’s 65.4% stake in Juventus at €2.66 per share, a 21% premium.

The company plans to invest €1 billion in the club if the deal succeeds, aiming for full ownership via a tender offer.

The Agnelli family, long-time owners, have stated they are not interested in selling, highlighting potential hurdles for theacquisition.

Stablecoin issuer Tether has escalated its involvement in sports by submitting a binding all-cash offer to acquire full control of Italian Serie A club Juventus FC.

The proposal targets Exor’s majority 65.4% stake, held by the Agnelli family, at €2.66 per share—a 21% premium over the club’s recent closing price. This values Juventus at over €1 billion ($1.17 billion). Tether, which already owns more than 10% of the club, intends to follow up with a public tender offer for the remaining shares at the same price.

Tether Juventus Bid Stablecoin issuer offers to acquire Italian football club Juventus with $1B investment plan.

— Cryptopress (@CryptoPress_ok) December 13, 2025

Tether’s financial strength underpins the bid. With USDT’s market cap at $186 billion, Tether reported over $10 billion in net profits for the first nine months of 2025, largely from U.S. Treasury yields. The firm also holds 116 tons of gold in reserves. Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or BNB, USDT maintains a stable peg to the U.S. dollar, facilitating its use in global transactions.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino, a lifelong Juventus fan, emphasized the company’s commitment in a statement: “Our interest in Juventus comes from deep admiration and respect. Tether is in a position of strong financial health and intends to support Juventus with stable capital and a long horizon.”

However, the deal faces significant resistance. Sources close to Exor told Reuters that the Agnelli family, who have controlled Juventus since 1923, has no intention of selling. Exor CEO John Elkann reiterated this stance in November, affirming the family’s commitment to the club despite its financial struggles, including no annual net profit in nearly a decade and a 27% share price drop this year.

Juventus, with 36 Serie A titles, ranks seventh in the league this season. The club’s fan token JUV surged 30% following the announcement, reflecting market excitement but also volatility in crypto-linked assets.

LATEST: USDT issuer Tether has submitted a proposal to acquire a 100% stake in Juventus, saying it is prepared to invest 1 billion euros in the football club if the deal goes through. pic.twitter.com/TcRNOIMmGW

— CoinMarketCap (@CoinMarketCap) December 13, 2025

This move aligns with Tether’s broader diversification strategy. Beyond stablecoins, the firm is expanding into AI, payments, and robotics. Analysts note potential regulatory scrutiny, given Tether’s past controversies over reserves, though recent audits have bolstered transparency. The bid could signal crypto’s growing influence in traditional sectors, but success hinges on regulatory approvals and Agnelli’s resolve.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post Tether Bids €1 Billion to Acquire Juventus FC Amid Agnelli Resistance appeared first on Cryptopress.

Hong Kong will host WikiEXPO HK 2026 on July 23–24 at the Hopewell Hotel. As a leading global fintech event, this event is expected to attract over 12,000 professionals, 200+ speakers, and 100+ exhibitors from more than 120 countries and regions.

This year’s expo will spotlight key innovations reshaping global finance, including:• Fintech & Artificial Intelligence• Cryptocurrency & Digital Assets• Foreign Exchange & Liquidity Solutions• Web3.0 & Decentralized Finance• Next-Generation Payments• ESG in Finance

Attendees can engage with global thought leaders, innovators, and regulators through keynote presentations, panel discussions, fireside chats, and dedicated networking sessions.

“Hong Kong is the ideal international financial hub to bridge East and West,” said Loki So, Chief Operating Officer of WikiEXPO. “Leveraging this unique position, we aim to convene global fintech leaders in Hong Kong through this event, offering a dynamic and neutral platform that fosters responsible innovation and sustainable growth in fintech and digital assets.”

How to Participate:• Free registration is now open: https://bit.ly/wikiexpohk_2026• Join the Event’s LinkedIn Group for updates and announce your attendance to your business connections: 

https://bit.ly/linkedin_wikiexpohk2026

Sponsorship & Exhibiting Opportunities:Contact: Loki So | Email: [email protected] | Telegram: https://t.me/Loki_wikiexpo_coo

About WikiEXPO

WikiEXPO is a global hub for financial innovation, uniting visionaries and leaders in fintech, forex, and crypto industries. With a worldwide community of over two million followers, our iconic summits—held in global capitals including Dubai, Hong Kong, Cyprus, Bangkok, Singapore, Sydney, South Africa, and beyond. From cutting-edge startups to industry giants, we connect the brightest minds. After six years of rapid development, WikiEXPO has become one of the world’s largest and most influential events in the forex and crypto fields.

Past Speakers at WikiEXPO Global

• Dominic Williams: Founder & Chief Scientist, DFINITY Foundation• Evan Auyang Chi-chun: Group President, Animoca Brands• Justin Sun: Founder – TRON, Member – HTX Global Advisory Board• Reeve Collins: Co-Founder – Tether• Joy Lam: Member of Task Force on Promoting Web3 Development – Hong Kong Government, Head of Global Regulatory & APAC Legal – Binance• Alvin Hu: Managing Director, KuCoin Exchange• Kevin Lee: CEO, Gate.HK• Mario Nawfal: CEO, IBC Group• Julian Tehan: CCO, BitMEX• Hasnae Taleb: Managing Partner, Mintiply Capital, The Shewolf of Nasdaq by Nasdaq Stock Market• Mayoon Boonyarat: Director Revenue Tax Policy Division, Ministry of Finance of Thailand• John Riggins: Partner, BTC Inc• Loretta Joseph: Policy Consultant, The Commonwealth, Chairman, ADFSAC• Brian Norman: CFO Auros, Co-Chair Web3 & Blockchain committee – FinTech Assoc HK• Bugra Celik: Director, Digital Assets | Global Private Banking & Wealth, HSBC• Simon Callaghan: CEO, Blockchain Australia• Hassan Ahmed: Country Director, Coinbase Singapore

We look forward to welcoming you to Hong Kong in July 2026!

The post WikiEXPO HK 2026: Global Fintech Leaders Converge in Hong Kong, July 23-24 appeared first on Cryptopress.

What is Hyperwave [GWAVE]?

Hyperwave is a leading DeFi protocol built natively on Hyperliquid (HyperEVM), designed to maximize yield for users through advanced strategies and liquid wrappers.

GWAVE (Staked Hyperwave) is the protocol’s flagship “Real Yield” token. It acts as a liquid staking wrapper for the native HWAVE token. Unlike traditional staking where tokens are locked and yield comes from inflation, GWAVE operates on a Loyalty Fund model.

Mechanism: Users stake HWAVE to mint GWAVE.

Value Accrual: The protocol uses 100% of its generated revenue to buy back HWAVE from the open market. These bought-back tokens are distributed to GWAVE holders, causing the value of GWAVE to increase relative to HWAVE over time.

Liquid: GWAVE is a liquid ERC-20 token, meaning it can be used as collateral or traded in DeFi while still earning yield.

Factsheet: Hyperwave [GWAVE]

Feature Details Name Hyperwave (GWAVE) Yield Variable (100% Real Yield from Revenue Buybacks) + Points Sector Real Yield / Liquid Staking / DeFi Chains HyperEVM (Primary), Ethereum, Base Token GWAVE (Staked HWAVE)

Yield Opportunities: The Loyalty Fund

The core yield opportunity lies in the Hyperwave Loyalty Fund. This system is designed to reward long-term holders with non-inflationary yield derived from actual protocol usage.

Buyback & Burn/Distribute: Every week, Hyperwave uses its fees to buy back HWAVE.

Auto-Compounding: You do not need to claim rewards manually. The exchange rate of GWAVE/HWAVE increases, meaning your GWAVE commands more HWAVE when you unstake.

Wave Points: Holding GWAVE often qualifies users for “Community Badges” and boosters for Wave Points, which may be tied to future airdrops or incentives within the Hyperwave ecosystem.

Yield Steps: How to Earn with GWAVE

Follow these numbered steps to start earning real yield on Hyperwave:

Acquire HWAVE: Buy HWAVE tokens on Hyperliquid Spot or a supported exchange like MEXC.

Bridge to HyperEVM: Ensure your tokens are on the HyperEVM network (if bought on a CEX, withdraw to HyperEVM; if on Hyperliquid DEX, you are already there).

Access the App: Navigate to the Hyperwave Interface (app.hyperwavefi.xyz).

Connect Wallet: Connect your Web3 wallet (e.g., Rabby, MetaMask) configured for HyperEVM.

Enter the Vault: Go to the “Stake” or “Loyalty Fund” section and select GWAVE.

Stake HWAVE: Input the amount of HWAVE you wish to stake. Note: Staking may be subject to specific “Windows” or epochs.

Receive GWAVE: Confirm the transaction to mint GWAVE. You are now earning passive real yield!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post Forget Inflationary Farming: Earn Sustainable Real Yield with Hyperwave’s GWAVE appeared first on Cryptopress.

YouTube has introduced PYUSD payouts for US creators through PayPal’s infrastructure.

The stablecoin, with a market cap over $3 billion, operates on multiple blockchains including Ethereum and Solana.

This development follows regulatory advancements like the GENIUS Act, promoting stablecoin integration in the US economy.

YouTube, the video-sharing platform owned by Google, has quietly rolled out a new payment option allowing US-based creators to receive their earnings in PayPal’s stablecoin, PYUSD. This integration leverages PayPal’s existing infrastructure to handle the cryptocurrency payouts without YouTube directly managing digital assets. The move comes amid increasing mainstream adoption of stablecoins for everyday transactions.

Key details of the integration: According to reports, the feature became available following PayPal’s enablement of PYUSD for mass payments earlier in the year. Creators can now select PYUSD as their preferred payout method in their YouTube settings. This allows for on-chain settlements, potentially offering faster processing times compared to traditional bank transfers, especially for international creators, though currently limited to US users.

PYUSD, launched by PayPal in August 2023 and issued by Paxos Trust Co., maintains a 1:1 peg with the US dollar. Its market capitalization has grown to over $3 billion, reflecting strong demand. The stablecoin has expanded beyond Ethereum to include Solana, and recently to nine additional blockchains via LayerZero, such as Aptos, Avalanche, and Tron. For context, other major stablecoins like Tether (USDT) and USDC dominate the market with combined caps exceeding $200 billion.

Stakeholder perspectives: May Zabaneh, head of crypto at PayPal, confirmed the arrangement is live for American users in a statement to Fortune. Jakob Kronbichler, CEO of Clearpool, noted, “Big Tech like YouTube only adopts new payment rails when they’re operationally mature and low-friction.” He added that this could unlock efficiencies in on-chain finance.

Vedang Vatsa, founder of Hashtag Web3, described it as “a practical first step that other companies might look at as they figure out their own approaches to stablecoins.” Rohan Kohli from Bastion highlighted the role of regulatory clarity, stating, “This regulatory clarity is the foundation we’ve been seeking for a thriving, stablecoin-powered financial system.”

Broader implications: The integration aligns with recent regulatory developments, including President Trump’s signing of the GENIUS Act in July 2025, which provides a federal framework for stablecoins. Experts suggest this could foster institutional confidence and competition in the sector. However, challenges remain, with surveys indicating the stablecoin market may struggle to surpass $360 billion soon due to liquidity issues.

While promising for crypto adoption, users should note potential risks such as volatility in the broader crypto market and the need for KYC compliance when dealing with stablecoins. PayPal emphasizes that PYUSD is backed by dollar deposits and short-term Treasuries, ensuring stability.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post YouTube Enables US Creators to Receive Earnings in PayPal’s PYUSD Stablecoin appeared first on Cryptopress.

For years, people talked about crypto as “the future of money.” But by 2026, it finally stopped being a prediction and became something much simpler – a normal way to pay.

Coffee runs, groceries, travel, bills, the random things people buy throughout the week… crypto has quietly worked its way into all of it. It’s no longer just a digital asset to hold. It’s something people actually spend.

Here are the top five ways crypto is being used in everyday life right now.

1. Shopping Online

People are now using crypto to pay for almost anything – in-store, online, or on the go. Retailers that accept major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or stablecoins continue to grow. But the real game-changer is the crypto card. It instantly converts crypto to local currency, so it works anywhere a regular card is accepted.

Electronics, clothing, takeout, subscriptions, and even luxury items – if a store can take a card, people can pay with their crypto. No cashing out, no extra steps.

2. Traveling Without Limits

Crypto has made travel a lot easier. Flights, hotels, taxis, and rentals can be paid with crypto on supported platforms, which means no waiting in currency exchange lines or dealing with surprise fees. And when a place doesn’t take crypto directly, a crypto card comes in handy.

A card like KAST stands out because it works at merchants that put holds on cards – hotels, rental companies, gas stations. Many prepaid-style crypto cards get declined in these situations, but KAST isn’t restricted the same way, making it more reliable for frequent travelers.

3. Everyday Spending

People now use crypto for day-to-day essentials without thinking twice. They fund their card, tap or swipe, and the payment works like any other.

Most everyday users stick to stablecoins such as USDC or USDT because they’re pegged to the dollar. That makes budgeting simple and avoids the price swings that come with regular crypto.

Platforms like KAST let people spend stablecoins directly, so users always know how much exactly they’re spending and what’s left in their account.

4. Paying for Services

Anyone who’s tried sending money overseas through traditional banks knows the pain – delays, fees, failed transfers, timezone issues. And when the payment finally lands, the poor person barely gets the full amount.

Crypto makes it so much easier. Transfers usually settle within minutes, with fewer fees and no timezone delays.

This makes it a practical choice for hiring contractors, creatives, and remote workers globally. Once people get used to using crypto for services, it often becomes their preferred method for other recurring payments as well.

It’s a borderless way to pay for services without dealing with slow, old-school banking hurdles.

5. Paying Bills and Subscriptions

Bills aren’t fun, but paying them with crypto makes life a lot easier. Phone plans, internet, insurance, utilities, streaming services, gym memberships, even rent in some cases – many of these can now be paid with crypto. It’s super helpful, especially for people who travel or work remotely.

With KAST, it’s even more convenient because recurring charges can be pulled straight from a user’s crypto balance automatically. After it’s set up once, payments run month after month without extra work – so there’s no “oops, I forgot” moments.

Why You’ll Love Making Purchases With Crypto

The best part about actually using crypto? It feels natural. People aren’t just holding it and waiting anymore – they’re actually spending it on things they need every day. And many platforms reward this shift.

With KAST, for example, users can earn up to 10% back in KAST Points on eligible purchases. It’s a simple, practical upgrade to how one manages money.

Crypto finally fits into everyday life – easy to use, quick to spend, and rewarding at the same time. For anyone ready to go beyond just holding crypto, try KAST. It’s more than a card – it’s a crypto-friendly neobank designed for real-world use.

Discover how KAST makes crypto ready for everyday life.

By Juan Mende. In collaboration with Kast.

I’m a technology enthusiast with a passion for Bitcoin, blockchain, and cryptocurrencies . A former lawyer with a degree in marketing. I create content for various digital initiatives. Currently, I’m the editor of Cryptopress and a marketer for cryptocurrency companies.

The post The Top 5 Ways to Actually Use Your Crypto in 2026 appeared first on Cryptopress.

The Federal Reserve has lowered its benchmark interest rate by 0.25 percentage point and indicated it is ready to reduce rates further if economic conditions deteriorate, while inflation remains above its 2% target. The move marks another step away from the aggressive tightening of recent years and toward a more balanced stance between inflation risks and a cooling labor market.

The Key Decision

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) cut the target range for the federal funds rate to 3.5–3.75%, a reduction of 0.25 percentage point.

The decision was not unanimous: some policymakers argued for a larger cut, while others preferred no cut, underscoring internal disagreement over how fragile the economy is and how persistent inflation may prove.​

What It Says About the Economy

The Fed’s statement describes economic growth as “moderate,” with job gains slowing and unemployment edging higher, signaling that the labor market is gradually losing momentum.

Inflation has picked up compared with earlier in the year and remains “somewhat elevated,” meaning price pressures have not fully aligned with the central bank’s 2% goal.

How the Fed’s Stance Changed

Policymakers now see greater downside risk to employment and emphasize that uncertainty around the outlook has increased, justifying a modest easing of policy.

The Fed stresses that future moves—whether more cuts, a pause, or even a reversal—will depend on incoming data on growth, jobs, inflation and financial conditions, reinforcing its data‑dependent approach.

Balance Sheet and Liquidity

The Fed judges that bank reserves are now at “ample” levels and will buy shorter‑term Treasuries as needed to keep reserves ample over time.

In practice, this means the central bank is effectively ending the active shrinking of reserves and moving into a steady‑state system, adding liquidity when necessary to keep money markets functioning smoothly.

What It Can Mean for You and Markets

Over time, a lower federal funds rate tends to put mild downward pressure on borrowing costs for mortgages, consumer loans and business credit, and can support asset prices, although the impact will depend on how banks and markets respond.

With inflation still somewhat high and the Fed clearly data‑dependent, traders are likely to see this as the start of an easing cycle, but not a rush back to ultra‑low rates unless the economy weakens more sharply from here

The post Fed Cuts Rates by 0.25 Point and Opens Door to More Easing appeared first on Cryptopress.

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has called on the US Senate to abandon the Responsible Financial Innovation Act, citing significant risks to retirement security.

The union argues the bill strips safeguards from crypto assets and weakens protections for traditional securities, allowing tokenized stocks to evade regulation.

Sponsored by Senators Cynthia Lummis and Kirsten Gillibrand, the legislation seeks to establish a federal framework for digital assets amid ongoing negotiations.

The American Federation of Teachers, representing 1.8 million members, has urged the US Senate to withdraw the Responsible Financial Innovation Act, a key crypto market structure bill. In a letter from AFT President Randi Weingarten, the union highlighted profound risks to pensions and the broader economy. The bill, updated with a new discussion draft in September 2025, aims to define regulatory oversight for digital assets between the SEC and CFTC.

Weingarten’s letter emphasizes that the legislation fails to provide adequate guardrails for crypto’s inherent risks. Instead, it erodes protections for traditional securities, potentially allowing non-crypto companies to tokenize shares on blockchain without standard registration or reporting requirements. This loophole could expose retirement funds, including 401(k) plans, to unsafe assets and fraud.

Teachers Oppose Bill US teachers union calls for withdrawal of Senate crypto market structure bill.

— Cryptopress (@CryptoPress_ok) December 10, 2025

“Rather than providing desperately needed regulation and commonsense guardrails, this bill exposes working families—families with no current involvement in or connection to cryptocurrency—to economic risk and threatens the stability of their retirement security,” Weingarten wrote in the letter.

The AFT warns that passing the bill could lay the groundwork for the next financial crisis by doing little to curb illegal activities in crypto markets. Similar concerns have been echoed by the AFL-CIO, underscoring broader labor opposition. Democrats, whose votes are crucial for passage, have expressed reservations over tokenization provisions and potential regulatory gaps.

On the other side, proponents like Senator Lummis argue the bill offers much-needed clarity for the crypto industry, establishing uniform standards for exchanges, brokers, and token issuers. However, negotiations remain contentious, with some crypto stakeholders withdrawing support to avoid concessions, according to Decrypt.

The bill’s fate could impact how digital assets integrate into mainstream finance, but critics highlight risks to investor protections. As Senate leaders aim for a vote by early 2026, the AFT’s intervention adds pressure amid a divided Congress.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post US Teachers’ Union Urges Senate to Withdraw Crypto Market Structure Bill Over Retirement Risks appeared first on Cryptopress.

In a year marked by significant strides in cryptocurrency policy, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has emerged as a vocal advocate for comprehensive regulatory frameworks. His recent statements highlight the urgency of passing market structure legislation, emphasizing how such measures could solidify America’s position as a global leader in digital assets.

Progress in Stablecoin Legislation and Beyond

Armstrong has celebrated the advancements made in 2025, particularly with the passage of stablecoin legislation, which he credits for driving growth in the U.S. crypto sector. “We made huge progress on regulatory clarity for crypto in 2025 with stablecoin legislation, and this is already driving growth in the U.S.,” Armstrong stated in a recent post. He further stressed the need for additional reforms, noting that landing market structure legislation like the CLARITY Act would provide a robust foundation for future financial services.

The CLARITY Act aims to establish clear legal definitions and responsibilities for crypto exchanges, token issuers, and other participants in the digital asset ecosystem. Armstrong’s optimism stems from bipartisan momentum, with hopes for a Senate vote soon. He argues that Washington is closer than ever to implementing reforms by December 2025, which would clarify distinctions between commodities and securities, and set rules for trading platforms.

Intensive Lobbying and Bipartisan Engagements

Armstrong’s hands-on approach includes meeting with 25 senators in just 48 hours to push for regulatory clarity. He reported high urgency and momentum, even amid a government shutdown, underscoring the commitment from both parties to create rules that protect consumers while fostering innovation. “We’re 90% there,” he remarked, highlighting that the remaining challenges center on decentralized finance (DeFi), where policymakers seek to regulate centralized intermediaries without stifling protocols.

He remains bullish on the bill advancing out of committee by Thanksgiving and being signed by year-end, viewing it as a “freight train” of bipartisan support. Armstrong warns that banks resisting crypto integration risk being left behind, as partnerships like Coinbase’s collaborations with major U.S. banks on stablecoin pilots demonstrate growing mainstream adoption.

Stablecoins as a Catalyst for Growth

A key focus of Armstrong’s advocacy is the explosive potential of stablecoins. Coinbase anticipates the market expanding to $1.2 trillion by 2028, fueled by clearer regulations and innovative applications. Recent initiatives, such as collaborations with Citi to enhance stablecoin utility and digital asset adoption, reflect this vision. Armstrong envisions stablecoins updating the global financial system, enabling faster, cheaper payments and broader economic freedom.

Who is Brian Armstrong?

Brian Armstrong is the co-founder and CEO of Coinbase, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges. Under his leadership, Coinbase has grown into a pivotal player in the crypto industry, advocating for regulatory clarity to promote innovation and consumer protection. Armstrong is also involved in ventures like ResearchHub and New Limit, focusing on scientific research and longevity. His efforts extend to policy influence, where he actively engages with lawmakers to shape the future of digital assets.

From his official X account, a recent tweet encapsulates his stance: “We made huge progress on regulatory clarity for crypto in 2025 with stablecoin legislation, and this is already driving growth in the U.S. If we can land market structure legislation next (CLARITY, or the like), it will be a strong foundation to build the future of financial services in the U.S.”

Looking Ahead: The Impact of Regulatory Clarity

Armstrong’s statements underscore a transformative period for cryptocurrencies. With potential capital inflows boosted by clear rules, he predicts bitcoin could reach $1 million by 2030, driven by ETF flows, regulatory certainty, and institutional interest. As the Senate considers the CLARITY Act, the crypto community watches closely, hopeful for a framework that unlocks further innovation.

For more reading, check out these related articles from Cryptopress.site:

Senate Democrats Reaffirm Commitment to Crypto Market Bill

Crypto.com vs. SEC: The Battle for Crypto Regulation

The post Brian Armstrong Champions Crypto Clarity: Urging Swift Action on U.S. Regulation appeared first on Cryptopress.

Circle has secured a full Financial Services Permission license from ADGM’s FSRA to operate as a Money Services Provider in Abu Dhabi.

The company appointed Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, a former Visa executive, as Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa.

This regulatory milestone positions Circle to expand USDC-based payment and settlement services across the UAE, bolstering the region’s digital finance ecosystem.

Circle, the issuer of the $78 billion USDC stablecoin, has secured a pivotal regulatory license in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step in its Middle East expansion strategy.

The Financial Services Permission (FSP) from the Abu Dhabi Global Market’s (ADGM) Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) allows Circle to operate as a Money Services Provider within the international financial center.

This approval enables Circle to offer regulated payment and settlement services using USDC, a dollar-pegged stablecoin designed for stability in contrast to more volatile assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

With this license, businesses, developers, and financial institutions in the UAE can leverage USDC for efficient, onchain transactions, potentially streamlining cross-border payments in a region known for high remittance flows.

Circle expands its regulatory footprint in the UAEAnnounced at Abu Dhabi Finance Week:→ Secured an @ADGlobalMarket FSRA Financial Services Permission to operate as a Money Services ProviderThis milestone builds on USDC and EURC being the first stablecoins recognized by… pic.twitter.com/BCSDOpo3mb

— Circle (@circle) December 9, 2025

Strategic Leadership Hire: To spearhead operations, Circle has appointed Dr. Saeeda Jaffar as Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa (MEA). Jaffar, who joins from Visa where she oversaw the Gulf Cooperation Council as Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager, brings extensive experience in payments and financial strategy. Her role will focus on forging institutional partnerships and promoting the adoption of digital dollars and blockchain-based infrastructure across the UAE and broader MEA markets.

“Regulatory clarity is the foundation of a more open and efficient internet financial system,” said Jeremy Allaire, Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Circle. He praised ADGM’s framework for its emphasis on transparency, risk management, and consumer protection, which he believes enables stablecoins like USDC to facilitate real-world finance at scale.

The announcement aligns with the UAE’s ambitions to become a global leader in regulated digital assets. Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer at ADGM, noted that Circle’s presence reinforces Abu Dhabi’s efforts to build a trusted ecosystem for digital finance. This follows recent approvals for other major players, including Tether’s recognition for USDT across multiple blockchains and Binance’s authorization for exchange, clearing, and brokerage services set to launch in January 2026. 

Market Context and Risks: The UAE has emerged as a hub for crypto innovation, with clear rules for fiat-referenced tokens and support for yield-bearing stablecoins. However, industry observers highlight potential challenges, such as evolving regulatory requirements and competition from established players. Circle’s earlier recognition of USDC and EURC under Dubai’s DFSA regime complements this ADGM license, providing comprehensive coverage across key UAE financial zones.

Circle’s stock (NYSE: CRCL) closed down 1.94% at $83.96 on Monday, reflecting a 22% decline over the past six months amid broader market pressures. Despite this, the company’s regulatory-first approach positions it well for long-term growth in emerging markets like the UAE.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.

The post Circle Secures ADGM License to Drive USDC Expansion in UAE appeared first on Cryptopress.