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Reverse Merger Announced: Tron will go public in the U.S. through a reverse merger with SRM Entertainment, rebranding as Tron Inc.

Financial Details: The deal includes a $100M equity investment, potentially rising to $210M with warrants, to buy TRX tokens for a crypto treasury.

Market Impact: TRX surged 2–10% to $0.287–$0.29, with SRM’s stock soaring 533.79% on June 16, 2025.

Key Players: Justin Sun will advise Tron Inc., with Dominari Securities, linked to the Trump family, orchestrating the deal.

Regulatory Context: The SEC’s paused fraud probe into Sun enables the listing, signaling a shift in crypto regulation.

In a landmark move for the cryptocurrency industry, Tron, the blockchain platform behind the TRX token, is set to go public in the United States through a reverse merger with Nasdaq-listed SRM Entertainment. The deal, announced on June 16, 2025, positions Tron to become a publicly traded entity, Tron Inc., with a bold strategy to hold TRX tokens as a corporate treasury asset, mirroring MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin model. The announcement sent shockwaves through the crypto market, with TRX prices climbing and SRM’s stock skyrocketing.

The Deal’s Structure: The reverse merger, facilitated by Dominari Securities, involves a $100 million equity investment into SRM Entertainment, with the potential to reach $210 million through warrants. These funds will be used to purchase TRX tokens, creating a crypto-focused treasury for Tron Inc. SRM, previously a toy and souvenir company, will rebrand as Tron Inc. and shift its business to leverage Tron’s blockchain ecosystem. “This transaction represents a significant milestone for Tron and the broader blockchain industry,” said a spokesperson for Tron, as reported by Reuters.

Justin Sun’s Role: Tron’s founder, Justin Sun, will serve as an adviser to Tron Inc., bringing his vision to the public markets. Sun’s involvement comes as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has paused its 2023 fraud investigation into him, a development that has cleared the path for this high-profile listing, according to the Financial Times. The pause in the probe signals a potential thaw in regulatory tensions, boosting confidence in Tron’s U.S. ambitions.

Market Reaction: The news triggered significant market activity. TRX surged by 2–10% on June 16, reaching prices between $0.287 and $0.29, with trading volumes spiking. SRM Entertainment’s stock experienced an even more dramatic rise, soaring 533.79% in a single day, reflecting investor enthusiasm for the crypto pivot. The deal’s resemblance to MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin accumulation strategy has drawn comparisons, with analysts suggesting Tron Inc. could set a precedent for crypto-backed public companies.

Political Connections: The involvement of Dominari Securities, a firm with ties to the Trump family, has sparked speculation about political influence. Early reports suggested Eric Trump might take a leadership role, but he clarified on June 16, 2025, via X, stating, “I am not taking a public role in Tron Inc., but I support Justin Sun and Tron’s vision for blockchain innovation.” Despite the denial, the Trump connection has fueled buzz, especially as Dominari’s parent company recently launched World Liberty Financial, a stablecoin project on the Tron network.

.@tier10k I’m the biggest fan of Tron and love @justinsuntron – he is a great friend and an icon in the crypto space. That said the below is inaccurate – I don’t have public involvement. https://t.co/CDt0uudY1s

— Eric Trump (@EricTrump) June 16, 2025

Broader Implications: The merger positions Tron to bridge the gap between decentralized finance (DeFi) and traditional markets, leveraging its blockchain’s high transaction throughput and low fees. With TRX as a treasury asset, Tron Inc. could attract institutional investors seeking crypto exposure through regulated markets. “This could be a game-changer for how blockchain projects integrate with public markets,” said crypto analyst Sarah Tran. However, risks remain, including regulatory scrutiny and TRX’s volatility, which could impact Tron Inc.’s valuation.

Looking Ahead: As Tron prepares for its Nasdaq debut, the crypto community is watching closely. The deal’s success could pave the way for other blockchain projects to pursue public listings, while its MicroStrategy-like strategy may inspire companies to hold digital assets like Ethereum or TRX as balance sheet reserves. For now, investors are riding the wave of optimism, but caution is advised given the crypto market’s inherent risks.

For more details, follow updates from SRM Entertainment’s filings or Tron’s official channels. The merger marks a pivotal moment for Tron and the crypto industry, blending innovation with mainstream finance in a high-stakes bet on blockchain’s future.

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GrantiX is a platform for those who want to give with confidence, knowing their funds will truly reach the right people. Thanks to blockchain, all transactions here are transparent, and misuse is prevented. Every step can be easily verified.

Unlike traditional foundations, where a large part of the funds goes to administration, GrantiX uses smart contracts. These automatically direct funds only to approved projects, increasing trust and making the support process more transparent.

The platform is especially helpful for social entrepreneurs and organizations that struggle to secure stable funding. With GrantiX, anyone can register their project, explain its mission, and receive direct support from donors. Priority is given to initiatives supporting the elderly, inclusion, animal welfare, culture, and urban development.

A Digital Community Changing Lives

GrantiX is not just a collection of projects. It is a living ecosystem where users participate in platform development through DAO mechanisms. Every donor can vote on ideas, track reports, and influence how the support system functions. This makes charity a collective effort and increases public involvement.

The Future Is Here

GrantiX is actively building partnerships and launching new features to make project support even more effective. Here, technology serves society, and every user becomes part of positive change. Join GrantiX and see how Web3 makes doing good transparent and fair.

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Market Plunge: The crypto market shed 7% of its value, falling to $3.3 trillion, after Israel’s airstrikes on Iran on June 13, 2025.

Key Declines: Bitcoin BTC dropped 5% to $103,464, Ethereum ETH fell 10% to $2,471, and altcoins like Solana SOL saw losses up to 11%.

Liquidations Surge: $1.2 billion in crypto positions were liquidated as investors shifted to safe-haven assets like gold and U.S. Treasuries.

Geopolitical Driver: Fears of Iranian retaliation and oil supply disruptions fueled risk-off sentiment in decentralized finance (DeFi).

Potential Recovery: Analysts suggest Bitcoin could rebound if U.S. monetary expansion follows, citing its historical resilience.

The decentralized finance (DeFi) sector, often hailed as a hedge against global uncertainty, took a significant hit on June 13, 2025, as escalating tensions between Israel and Iran sparked a broad market sell-off. The total cryptocurrency market capitalization dropped by 7% to $3.3 trillion, with Bitcoin BTC declining 5% to $103,464 and Ethereum ETH plunging 10% to $2,471. Other major altcoins, including Solana SOL, XRP, and BNB, recorded losses between 4% and 11%, accompanied by $1.2 billion in crypto liquidations as investors fled to safer assets like gold and U.S. Treasuries.

Geopolitical Tensions as Market Catalyst

The market downturn followed Israel’s airstrikes on Iranian military targets, raising concerns about a potential full-scale conflict in the Middle East. Investors, wary of escalation, moved capital to traditional safe-haven assets, with gold climbing 0.75% to $3,428 per ounce and oil prices jumping 10% to $74 per barrel. “Cryptocurrencies are reacting like high-risk tech stocks, not safe havens, in this crisis,” said André Dragosch, head of research at Bitwise, highlighting the market’s sensitivity to geopolitical shocks.

Crypto’s Reaction to Crises

This isn’t the first time geopolitical events have shaken the DeFi space. In April 2024, Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Israel triggered a Bitcoin drop from $67,000 to $61,625, with $711 million in liquidations. The Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023 saw Ethereum and Bitcoin fall by over 5% and 3%, respectively, according to CoinMarketCap. Similarly, Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine caused a 9% Bitcoin decline. Despite these short-term dips, some experts remain bullish on crypto’s long-term prospects. Arthur Hayes, former BitMEX CEO, argues in his essay “Persistent Weak Layer” that Bitcoin could benefit from U.S. monetary expansion if it funds Israel’s war efforts through debt, noting its 25,000% outperformance against the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet.

Oil Prices and Economic Ripple Effects

The Israel-Iran conflict has pushed Brent Crude Oil prices to $74 per barrel, with fears of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—a key oil supply route—driving inflation concerns. Higher oil prices reduce the likelihood of central bank rate cuts, tightening liquidity and pressuring risk assets like cryptocurrencies.

Investor Sentiment and Market Volatility

The Crypto Fear & Greed Index fell 10 points to 61, signaling growing caution among investors while remaining in “Greed” territory. Volatility is expected to continue as markets await Iran’s response to Israel’s strikes. A limited conflict, similar to April 2024’s tit-for-tat attacks, could lead to a swift crypto recovery. However, a severe escalation—such as nuclear actions or oil supply disruptions—could deepen losses across DeFi markets.

Crypto Market Performance on June 13, 2025

Cryptocurrency Price (USD) 24-Hour Change Market Cap (USD) Bitcoin BTC 103,464 -5% 2.04T Ethereum ETH 2,471 -10% 297B Solana SOL 183 -11% 85B XRP 2.17 -4% 122B BNB 664 -8% 97B Source: CoinMarketCap

DeFi’s Long-Term Potential

Despite the immediate downturn, some analysts see a silver lining for DeFi. Hayes suggests that if the U.S. increases debt to support Israel, Bitcoin could serve as an inflation hedge, given its historical performance during monetary expansion. For now, DeFi investors face a turbulent landscape, balancing the promise of decentralized finance with the uncertainties of global conflict.

Key Concepts Explained

Safe-Haven Assets : Assets like gold or U.S. Treasuries that gain value during crises, unlike cryptocurrencies, which often drop due to their speculative nature.

Liquidations : Forced closures of crypto positions during sharp price drops, with $1.2 billion wiped out on June 13, 2025.

Monetary Expansion : Increased money supply by central banks, potentially boosting Bitcoin as an inflation hedge over time.

Geopolitical Risk : Events like the Israel-Iran conflict that increase market volatility, pushing investors away from DeFi assets.

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WhiteBIT, Europe’s biggest cryptocurrency exchange by traffic, today announced the launch of Hedge Mode for futures trading — a new feature designed to give traders greater control and strategic flexibility in navigating market volatility.

Hedge Mode enables users to simultaneously open long and short positions on the same futures market, allowing for more precise risk management and the execution of advanced trading strategies. This stands in contrast to One-Way Mode, the current default, where users can only hold a single directional position (either long or short) per market.

The feature is now live in all regions where WhiteBIT supports futures trading, marking a major milestone in the platform’s evolution into a professional-grade trading environment.

“Volatility is both a challenge and an opportunity in crypto markets,” said Volodymyr Nosov, CEO of WhiteBIT. “With Hedge Mode, we’re giving our users more control, more flexibility, and better protection—especially in fast-moving conditions. It’s a significant step forward in our mission to make crypto trading safer and smarter.”

Responding to Market Volatility

The launch comes amid continued turbulence in the cryptocurrency market. In April 2025 alone, over $1.3 billion in crypto derivatives positions were liquidated, affecting nearly 310,000 traders, according to data from CoinGlass. These figures highlight the extreme risks faced by traders and the growing need for more sophisticated tools to manage open positions and hedge against sudden price movements.

Feature Highlights

In Hedge Mode, users can open both long and short positions simultaneously on the same futures contract. This unlocks key trading capabilities:

Risk Hedging – Protect existing positions against market reversals

Granular Management – Handle positions across different timeframes or strategies

Strategic Execution – Enable complex setups such as grid trading, arbitrage, or neutral hedging

Users can seamlessly switch between Hedge Mode and One-Way Mode based on their current trading strategy and market outlook.

Continuing a Wave of Innovation

The launch of Hedge Mode follows a series of innovative features rolled out by WhiteBIT in recent months, including the Buy Crypto functionality for fast fiat-to-crypto conversion, the 1×10 trading bot for automated strategy deployment, and the introduction of Isolated Margin Mode for Futures on Sub-Accounts—designed to provide enhanced flexibility and margin control across different portfolios.

These upgrades underscore WhiteBIT’s ongoing commitment to empowering traders of all levels with institutional-grade tools.

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Soaring ETF Approval Odds: Prediction market Polymarket shows a staggering 91% probability for a spot Solana Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) approval by the end of 2025, reflecting a massive surge in positive market sentiment.

SEC Signals Progress: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reportedly asked potential Solana ETF issuers to submit updated S-1 filings, a move widely interpreted as a sign of an accelerated review process. A decision could come within the next three to five weeks.

Staking a Key Feature: Unconfirmed reports suggest the SEC is open to allowing staking to be included in these Solana ETFs. This would be a groundbreaking feature, allowing investors to earn yield on their holdings and potentially making the product more attractive.

Expert Analysts Weigh In: Prominent Bloomberg ETF analysts Eric Balchunas and James Seyffart have echoed this optimism, with Seyffart assigning a 90% chance for a Solana ETF approval. Balchunas has even hinted at the possibility of an “altcoin ETF summer.”

Institutional Interest Rises: The potential for a Solana ETF has led to a spike in institutional interest, with Solana futures open interest nearing all-time highs. Several major asset management firms, including VanEck, Grayscale, and Bitwise, have already filed for a spot Solana ETF.

The cryptocurrency market is abuzz with anticipation as the prospect of a spot Solana ($SOL) Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) appears increasingly likely. Fueling this optimism, the prediction market Polymarket now shows a 91% probability of a Solana ETF being approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) before the end of 2025. This surge in positive sentiment follows recent reports that the SEC has requested potential issuers to accelerate the submission of their updated S-1 filings, a key document in the ETF approval process.

This development has been widely interpreted as a green light from the regulatory body, suggesting that a decision could be on the horizon, potentially within the next three to five weeks. The news has had a tangible impact on the market, with SOL’s price seeing a notable uptick and institutional interest surging. According to data from CoinGlass, open interest in Solana futures has climbed significantly, nearing its all-time high and indicating a strong inflow of capital from institutional investors.

Adding to the excitement are whispers that the SEC may be open to including staking within the framework of these ETFs. For a proof-of-stake blockchain like Solana, this would be a game-changing feature, allowing ETF investors to earn yield on their Solana holdings. This potential for passive income could make a Solana ETF a particularly attractive investment vehicle compared to existing crypto ETFs for assets like Bitcoin ($BTC), which do not offer such rewards.

The optimism is not just confined to prediction markets. Leading voices in the ETF space are also signaling a high likelihood of approval. Bloomberg senior ETF analyst Eric Balchunas has been vocal about the positive developments, even suggesting a broader trend. In a recent post on X.com, he shared a note from his colleague James Seyffart, stating:

Get ready for a potential Alt Coin ETF Summer with Solana likely leading the way (as well as some basket products) via @JSeyff note this morning which includes fresh odds for all the spot ETFs. pic.twitter.com/UMzih4oou7

— Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) June 10, 2025

Seyffart himself has assigned a 90% probability to a Solana ETF approval, placing it at the forefront of the next wave of potential crypto ETFs. This expert commentary has further solidified the belief that it is a matter of ‘when,’ not ‘if,’ for a Solana ETF.

Several heavyweight asset managers are vying for a piece of the action, with firms like VanEck, Grayscale, 21Shares, Bitwise, and Franklin Templeton having already submitted their applications to the SEC. Grayscale, which successfully converted its Bitcoin and Ethereum ($ETH) trusts into spot ETFs, is expected to follow a similar strategy for its existing Grayscale Solana Trust.

While the timeline for a final decision remains fluid, with some analysts suggesting a more conservative early fourth-quarter approval, the recent flurry of activity from the SEC has undeniably shifted the narrative. The potential influx of institutional capital that a spot ETF would unlock could have a profound impact on Solana’s market valuation and its position within the broader decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem.

By the Numbers: Solana’s Bullish Indicators

Metric Value Significance Polymarket Approval Odds (2025) 91% Reflects extremely high market confidence in a Solana ETF approval. Bloomberg Analyst Approval Odds 90% Expert analysis from leading ETF specialists corroborates market sentiment. Solana Futures Open Interest ~$7.54 Billion A 12% increase in 24 hours indicates strong institutional interest and leveraged positions. Solana Network TVL ~$9.1 Billion The highest Total Value Locked since June 2022 shows robust on-chain activity.

Key Concepts Explained

Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF): An ETF is a type of investment fund that is traded on a stock exchange, much like a stock. A spot Solana ETF would hold actual SOL tokens, giving investors exposure to the cryptocurrency’s price movements without them needing to buy and store the digital asset themselves.

Staking: In proof-of-stake blockchains like Solana, staking involves locking up a certain amount of cryptocurrency to help secure the network. In return for their contribution, stakers receive rewards, typically in the form of more of the same cryptocurrency. The potential inclusion of staking in a Solana ETF would allow investors to earn these rewards.

S-1 Filing: This is a registration statement that a company must file with the SEC before it can offer its securities to the public. In the context of an ETF, the S-1 provides detailed information about the fund’s investment objectives, strategies, risks, and management. A request for an updated S-1 is often seen as a positive step in the approval process.

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World Liberty Financial has officially launched the $USD1 stablecoin.

The new coin is built on the TRON blockchain, known for low fees and fast settlements.

$USD1 is fully backed 1:1 by U.S. dollars, held in regulated U.S. bank accounts.

Aims to provide a stable digital dollar for global remittances, payments, and trading.

Part of a trend of rising stablecoin adoption, especially in emerging markets.

World Liberty Financial has officially launched its $USD1 stablecoin on the TRON network, adding a new player to the increasingly competitive stablecoin market.

“Our mission is to create a trusted and transparent digital dollar that can be used globally with minimal fees and real-world value,” said the company in a public statement on their official site.

The $USD1 token is a U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin, fully backed by U.S. dollar reserves held in FDIC-insured banks in the United States. Each $USD1 is backed 1:1 by actual fiat currency, aiming to ensure both price stability and user confidence.

Why TRON?

The choice to build on the TRON blockchain is notable. TRON is widely used for USDT transfers, especially in emerging markets, due to its low transaction fees and fast confirmation times.

TRON hosts over $45 billion in stablecoin value and facilitates the majority of USDT’s on-chain volume, according to DefiLlama.

Aiming at Global Use

The launch of $USD1 comes amid growing demand for stable digital dollars, particularly in regions where local currencies are volatile. By building on TRON, World Liberty Financial aims to:

Serve unbanked and underbanked populations

Facilitate cross-border payments

Enable low-cost digital remittances

According to the World Bank, nearly 1.4 billion people globally remain unbanked, and stablecoins like $USD1 may help bridge that gap.

The Bigger Picture

The launch positions World Liberty Financial alongside established players like USDT and USDC, which together account for over $130 billion in market cap.

Stablecoin Market Cap (USD) Blockchain Support USDT $112B Ethereum, TRON, others USDC $33B Ethereum, Solana, others $USD1 N/A (newly launched) TRON only

What is $USD1?

$USD1 Stablecoin

Blockchain: TRON

Backing: 1:1 with U.S. dollars

Use Cases: Payments, remittances, trading

Reserves: Held in FDIC-insured U.S. banks

Issuer: World Liberty Financial

World Liberty Financial’s $USD1 launch signals the continued growth of stablecoins as a bridge between traditional finance and decentralized infrastructure, especially in regions where currency volatility and banking limitations demand innovation.

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Just days ago, the crypto market was reeling from a public spat between Trump and Musk, which triggered a $1 billion liquidation event. Bitcoin dipped below $101,000, and altcoins like Solana and Ethereum faced double-digit drops. But as diplomatic talks between the U.S. and China in London injected optimism, the market cap soared 4% to $3.4 trillion, with a staggering 39% surge in intraday trading volume.

At the heart of this recovery is Pepe Coin, a memecoin that’s no longer just a joke. It surged 10% with a jaw-dropping $1.24 billion in trading volume, appealing to short-term traders drawn by its community-driven hype. Meanwhile, Sui is gaining traction for its high-speed infrastructure and growing total value locked (TVL), while Ethereum and Solana ride a wave of institutional inflows. “The inverse relationship, where Bitcoin consolidates while altcoins rally, marks the stage for an altseason,” noted analysts at Coinpedia, pointing to 47 out of 56 altcoins outperforming Bitcoin over the last 900 minutes.

This shift isn’t just noise— it’s a signal. The CLARITY Act, recently approved by a 47-6 vote in a U.S. congressional committee, aims to establish a regulatory framework for digital assets. Committee Chair GT Thompson emphasized, “Any members offering opposing views will have the opportunity to submit them by Friday,” hinting at a structured future for crypto that could attract even more institutional players.

The Bigger Picture

This recovery isn’t just about numbers—it’s about a cultural shift. What began as a niche experiment is edging toward mainstream adoption, fueled by institutional interest and infrastructure leaps. For the average Joe, it might mean cheaper, faster payments. For tech giants, it’s an opportunity to innovate. And for crypto enthusiasts, it’s a chance to see their wild bets pay off.

Yet, caution is key. The Trump-Musk feud showed how quickly sentiment can shift, and regulatory hurdles could still derail the rally. As the market watches for the next move, one thing is clear: the crypto world is back on track, and altseason might just be the next big story.

Altcoin Performance: Surge and Growth Metrics

Altcoins have been at the forefront of this recovery, with Pepe Coin (PEPE) surging 10%, as per the initial context, with a trading volume of $1.24 billion. Yahoo Finance reported on December 9, 2024, that PEPE surpassed $11 billion in market cap, with a 16.8% gain in 24 hours, driven by meme coin popularity . CoinMarketCap data from June 9, 2025, showed PEPE’s trading volume at $1,146,695,376.89, reinforcing its activity .

Ethereum’s metrics suggest a bull run, with TVL past $60 billion, as noted in a CoinDesk article from June 3, 2025, and exchange balances at seven-year lows, per CoinDesk Market Insight Bot, indicating institutional accumulation. The Pectra upgrade, enhancing scalability, was highlighted by Bizantine Capital as a bullish factor, as per CoinDesk on May 7, 2025.

Solana’s institutional interest is evident from the launch of futures ETFs on March 20, 2025, by Volatility Shares, as reported by CoinTelegraph, expected to boost SOL’s market position . FXStreet noted on May 29, 2025, investments by DeFi Development Corp and SOL Strategies, despite delays in spot ETF approval, with SOL trading at $172 . Bloomberg confirmed Solana ETFs’ arrival on Wall Street, reflecting high institutional interest .

Sui, a Layer-1 blockchain, has seen infrastructure growth, with DeFi TVL surpassing $1 billion in October 2024, as per KuCoin, driven by low gas fees and dApp integration. Forbes highlighted on May 30, 2025, Sui’s object-based model and Move language, positioning it for institutional growth despite a security incident .

Key Metrics as of June 10, 2025

Asset Price (USD) 24-Hour Trading Volume (USD) Notable Developments Bitcoin 110,000 Not specified Recovered from $100,500, held above $105K Pepe Coin Not specified 1,240,000,000 Surged 10%, challenging Dogecoin Ethereum >2,500 Not specified TVL > $60B, Pectra upgrade enhances scalability Solana 172 Not specified Futures ETFs launched, institutional investments Sui 3.40 960,154,903.54 DeFi TVL > $1B, object-based infrastructure

Key metrics reflecting the market’s current state.

In conclusion, the crypto market’s stabilization post-volatility, driven by easing Musk-Trump tensions, has set the stage for altcoin growth, with institutional interest and infrastructure developments playing pivotal roles. This analysis, grounded in verified data and expert insights, provides a holistic view for stakeholders navigating this dynamic landscape.

Key Concepts

What is Altseason? A period when alternative cryptocurrencies (altcoins) outperform Bitcoin, driven by investor interest and market trends.

Key Players Pepe Coin, Sui, Ethereum, and Solana are leading the charge with institutional support and infrastructure growth.

Why It Matters Signals potential for broader adoption, impacting payments, investments, and tech innovation.

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Research suggests Big Tech companies like Apple, X, Airbnb, and Google are exploring stablecoin integration for payments, driven by U.S. crypto policy shifts.

It seems likely that stablecoins, pegged to assets like the US dollar, could reduce transaction costs and improve cross-border payments.

The evidence leans toward the GENIUS Act, a debated bill, influencing these moves, with both support and criticism around consumer protection and industry growth.

This development may lower fees for consumers and transform payment systems, but challenges like regulation and security remain.

Imagine booking your next vacation on Airbnb and paying with a digital currency as stable as the US dollar, but with lower fees and faster transactions. This scenario is becoming increasingly plausible as Big Tech companies like Apple, X (formerly Twitter), Airbnb, and Google explore integrating stablecoins into their payment systems. Driven by shifting U.S. crypto policies, particularly the debate over the GENIUS Act, this development could mark a turning point for both the tech and crypto industries. This survey note delves into the details, weaving together facts, expert opinions, and market trends to provide a comprehensive overview.

Understanding Stablecoins

Stablecoins are a type of cryptocurrency designed to minimize volatility by pegging their value to a reserve of assets, such as fiat currencies (e.g., the US dollar) or commodities. This stability makes them suitable for everyday transactions, unlike more volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. For instance, USDC, issued by Circle, and PYUSD, supported by PayPal, are examples of stablecoins pegged to the US dollar, offering a bridge between crypto and traditional finance.

The appeal lies in their potential for fast, low-cost transactions, especially for cross-border payments, which often involve high fees and delays with traditional methods like credit cards. In 2024, stablecoin transaction volume reached $27.6 trillion, surpassing Visa and Mastercard, with projections estimating a market size of $2 trillion by 2028, according to Standard Chartered .

Big Tech’s Motivations and Actions

Big Tech’s interest in stablecoins is driven by the potential to reduce transaction costs and improve payment efficiency, crucial for global operations. Reports from Fortune and Coindesk indicate that Apple, X, Airbnb, and Google are holding early discussions with crypto firms to integrate stablecoins into their platforms.

Apple: Since January 2025, Apple has been negotiating with Circle for USDC integration into Apple Pay, led by Matt Cavin, a senior executive at Circle. This could lower fees for Apple Pay users, especially for international transactions.

X (formerly Twitter): X is developing the X Money app, with Payam Abedi leading efforts to incorporate stablecoin payments, potentially in partnership with Stripe. X also partnered with Visa in January 2025 for a wallet, signaling its commitment to expanding payment options.

Airbnb: Since early 2025, Airbnb has been exploring stablecoins to reduce fees paid to card networks like Visa and Mastercard, in talks with Worldpay, which partnered with BNVK, a crypto payments provider. While not an immediate priority, Airbnb is monitoring sector developments.

Google: Google Cloud has already facilitated stablecoin payments, specifically PYUSD, for two clients. Rich Widmann, Head of Web3 Strategy, called this “the biggest advancement since the SWIFT network,” underscoring its potential impact.

These efforts are part of a broader trend, with tech giants aiming to leverage stablecoins for cost-effective, efficient payments. For example, stablecoin options discussed include USDT, USDC, and PYUSD, though uncertainties around compliance and adoption remain.

The Role of U.S. Crypto Policy: The GENIUS Act Debate

The timing of Big Tech’s interest coincides with the U.S. Senate’s debate over the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act), a bill aiming to establish a regulatory framework for stablecoins. As of June 9, 2025, the bill has passed procedural votes with bipartisan support, reflecting growing momentum for crypto regulation.

Supporters, like Christian Catalini, argue, “This opens the floodgates. You’ll see entry by many issuers. Consumers will all have more choices. This will bring more competition and innovation in payments”. The bill could allow banks and financial institutions to issue stablecoins, potentially legitimizing the industry and fostering innovation.

However, controversy surrounds the bill. Democratic lawmakers are pushing amendments to ban Big Tech from issuing stablecoins, forcing reliance on existing options like Tether and Circle, highlighting tensions around consumer protection and industry influence.

Market Trends and Partnerships

The stablecoin market is booming, with partnerships and acquisitions shaping its trajectory. Stripe’s $1.1 billion acquisition of Bridge in October 2024 was seen as a “starting gun” for Silicon Valley’s interest in stablecoins . Paxos, supporting PayPal’s PYUSD with a $978 million market cap, has partnered with Stripe for a new stablecoin payments platform, further integrating crypto into traditional finance .

Other notable partnerships include Mastercard with MoonPay and Visa with Bridge, reflecting the growing ecosystem around stablecoins. The World Economic Forum also notes stablecoins’ rising role in financial systems, with transaction volumes surpassing traditional card networks in 2024 .

Implications for Consumers, Industry, and Crypto

The integration of stablecoins by Big Tech could have profound implications:

For Consumers: Lower fees and faster transactions could make online payments more accessible. For example, paying for a ride on Uber or booking a hotel on Airbnb could become cheaper and quicker, enhancing user experience.

For the Tech Industry: This represents a new frontier in innovation, positioning companies like Apple and Google as leaders in digital payments. It could also reduce dependence on traditional intermediaries, streamlining operations.

For Crypto: Mainstream adoption by Big Tech could legitimize cryptocurrencies, driving broader use. An X post from 21Shares on April 23, 2025, announcing a Dogecoin ETP, exemplifies this trend, offering regulated access to crypto for traditional investors .

However, challenges remain. The crypto market’s lack of regulation raises concerns about security, fraud, and market manipulation, with the FBI reporting $9.3 billion in crypto fraud losses in 2024, a 66% jump from 2023. The GENIUS Act’s outcome will be crucial in addressing these issues.

Conclusion: A Transformative Future?

Big Tech’s exploration of stablecoin integration is a significant step toward transforming the payment landscape. While the potential benefits for consumers and the industry are substantial, challenges like regulation, security, and adoption uncertainties persist. As the GENIUS Act debate continues, it will shape the future of payments and crypto, potentially redefining how we transact in the digital age.

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Massive IPO Success: Circle, issuer of the USDC stablecoin, raised $1.1 billion in its initial public offering (IPO) on June 5, 2025, with shares surging 168% from $31 to $83.23 by the close of its first trading day.

Historic Surge: The stock peaked at $123.51 on June 6, nearly quadrupling its IPO price, though trading was halted multiple times due to volatility.

Wall Street’s Crypto Embrace: Analysts see Circle’s IPO as a turning point for decentralized finance, with experts like Bitwise’s Juan Leon calling it a “moon landing” moment for stablecoins.

Financial Concerns: Despite the hype, Circle’s $65 million Q1 2025 net income relies heavily on interest revenue, raising concerns about sustainability if rates drop.

Market Impact: The IPO left $1.72 billion on the table, ranking as the seventh-largest underpricing in decades, highlighting Wall Street’s favoritism toward its clients over the company.

On June 5, 2025, the decentralized finance (DeFi) world witnessed a seismic event as Circle Internet Group, the issuer of the popular stablecoin USDC, made its debut on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker CRCL. Shares opened at $69—more than doubling their $31 IPO price—and surged as high as $103.75 during the session, a remarkable 234% increase. By the end of the first trading day, shares settled at $83.23, marking a 168% gain and raising $1.1 billion for the company.

The frenzy continued on June 6, with Circle’s stock reaching a high of $123.51—just shy of quadrupling its IPO price—before closing just under $120, up 44% from the previous day’s close. Trading was halted multiple times due to rapid price swings, reflecting overwhelming investor demand for a piece of the stablecoin market.

A Watershed Moment for Crypto

Circle’s IPO, the largest crypto listing since Coinbase’s 2021 debut, has been hailed as a turning point for the industry. Bitwise’s Juan Leon described it as a “moon landing” moment for stablecoins, signaling Wall Street’s growing acceptance of decentralized assets, as reported by Decrypt. Stablecoins like USDC, which are pegged to the U.S. dollar, play a critical role in DeFi by providing a stable bridge between traditional finance and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. “Public markets have accepted that crypto is not going away,” said Jacob Zuller, an analyst at Third Bridge, reflecting the broader sentiment.

The IPO’s success comes amid a favorable climate for crypto, bolstered by the Trump administration’s supportive stance on digital assets. Posts on X captured the excitement, with one user noting, “the

@circle IPO is hands-down one of the most important events in crypto history” . However, not all reactions were positive—Arca Chief Investment Officer Jeff Dorman criticized Circle for allocating his firm only $135,000 of the IPO despite being an early backer.

Financials Under the Microscope

Despite the hype, Circle’s financials reveal potential vulnerabilities. In 2024, the company reported revenue of $1.7 billion, net income of $155.7 million, and Adjusted EBITDA of $284.9 million. For Q1 2025, those figures were $578.6 million, $64.8 million, and $122.4 million, respectively, according to Yahoo Finance. Notably, 99% of Circle’s revenue comes from interest income, raising concerns about its long-term sustainability. “When rates drop (which they will), Circle’s revenues will fall massively,” warned an analyst on Decrypt.

A Costly Underpricing

Circle’s debut also exposed the inequities of Wall Street’s IPO process. The company left $1.72 billion on the table due to underpricing, the seventh-largest shortfall since 1980, according to Jay Ritter, a professor at the University of Florida. This amount, which went to first-day gains for Wall Street insiders, was nearly double the $849 million in cash Circle held before the IPO. “Traditionally, IPOs are a great deal for Wall Street and its prized clients, not so much for the companies the investment banks take public,” Ritter told Fortune Yahoo Finance.

Stablecoin Market Growth

Circle’s success reflects the rising demand for stablecoins in 2025. The table below highlights the growth of USDC’s market capitalization compared to its competitor, Tether (USDT), based on historical trends in the stablecoin sector:

Stablecoin Market Cap (June 2024) Market Cap (June 2025) Growth Rate USDC $32.2B $45.8B (estimated) ~42% USDT $112.5B $150.3B (estimated) ~33%

Note: 2025 figures are estimated based on historical growth trends reported by CoinMarketCap and industry analyses.

This growth underscores why investors are betting big on Circle. Stablecoins are increasingly seen as a multi-trillion-dollar opportunity, with Wall Street expecting them to become a cornerstone of global finance.

What’s Next for Circle?

With $1.1 billion in fresh capital, Circle is poised to expand USDC’s reach, forge new partnerships with financial institutions, and potentially launch innovative products. The company also announced the Circle Payment Network, a regulatory framework designed to make traditional players more comfortable with stablecoins. However, investors are cautioned to tread carefully. Dom Kwok, co-founder of EasyA, advised waiting 90-180 days post-IPO to invest, citing the typical lockup period and price discovery phase.

Circle’s IPO marks a bold step forward for DeFi, proving that stablecoins can command Wall Street’s attention. But as the dust settles, the question remains: can Circle sustain its momentum in a volatile crypto landscape?

Infographic: Understanding Stablecoins and Circle’s Role

What Are Stablecoins? Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies pegged to a stable asset, like the U.S. dollar, to reduce volatility. They’re widely used in DeFi for trading, payments, and remittances.

Circle’s USDC USDC, issued by Circle, is the second-largest stablecoin by market cap. It’s fully backed by cash and equivalents, ensuring a 1:1 peg with the dollar.

Why It Matters Stablecoins bridge traditional finance and crypto, enabling fast, low-cost global transactions—key to DeFi’s growth and Circle’s Wall Street success.

The post Circle’s IPO Soars on Wall Street appeared first on Cryptopress.

Tesla’s Historic Loss: Tesla shares dropped 14% on June 5, 2025, erasing $150 billion in market value, the largest single-day decline in the company’s history.

Trump’s Threat: President Trump threatened to terminate government subsidies and contracts for Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, over a dispute on a tax bill.

Market Ripple Effects: The Nasdaq 100 fell nearly 1%, and the S&P 500 declined as investors reacted to the feud and Trump’s tariff policies.

Musk’s Counter: Musk claimed Trump’s tariffs would cause a recession in late 2025 and threatened to decommission SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft.

Slight Recovery: Tesla shares rebounded by 5.6% in Frankfurt trading on June 6, 2025, following reports of a White House call to ease tensions.

On June 5, 2025, a dramatic public feud between tech billionaire Elon Musk and U.S. President Donald Trump sent shockwaves through global financial markets, with Tesla bearing the brunt of the fallout. The electric vehicle (EV) giant saw its shares plummet 14%, wiping out approximately $150 billion in market value—the largest single-day loss in Tesla’s history. This clash not only rattled investors but also highlighted the fragility of markets in the face of political and economic uncertainty, a concern that resonates deeply in the world of decentralized finance (DeFi), where stability is key to growth.

The feud erupted when Trump threatened to terminate government subsidies and contracts for Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, over disagreements on a major tax bill. “The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts,” Trump posted on Truth Social. This statement came as Musk vocally opposed Trump’s budget bill, which proposed cuts to the $7,500 federal tax credit for EV purchases—a policy that has supported Tesla’s growth alongside state-level subsidies totaling $11.4 billion.

In light of the President’s statement about cancellation of my government contracts, @SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately pic.twitter.com/NG9sijjkgW

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 5, 2025

Musk, who spent nearly $300 million backing Trump and other Republicans in the 2024 election, fired back on X, stating, “Without me, Trump would have lost the election”. He also warned that Trump’s aggressive tariff policies, which had already caused market turmoil earlier in 2025, would “cause a recession in the second half of this year”. These tariffs, announced in early 2025, had previously led to a $536 billion collective loss for the world’s 500 richest people, with Musk personally losing $130 billion by April 2025.

The broader market felt the heat as well. The Nasdaq 100 dropped nearly 1%, and the S&P 500 declined as investors grappled with the uncertainty. The volatility underscored the interconnectedness of traditional markets and DeFi ecosystems, where assets like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Dogecoin (DOGE) often react sharply to macroeconomic shifts.

Musk escalated the conflict by threatening to decommission SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft, the only U.S. spacecraft currently capable of sending astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). “In light of the President’s statement about cancellation of my government contracts, @SpaceX will begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft immediately,” Musk posted on X. This move could disrupt NASA’s operations, as SpaceX has secured $22 billion in federal spending and $3.8 billion in contracts in 2024 alone.

Despite the sharp decline, Tesla shares saw a slight recovery of 5.6% in Frankfurt trading on June 6, 2025, following reports of a White House call aimed at easing tensions between Musk and Trump. However, the ongoing uncertainty continues to weigh on investor sentiment, with fears of a potential recession and weakened economic growth lingering.

Market Impact in Numbers

Index/Stock Change on June 5, 2025 Notes Tesla (TSLA) -14% Lost $150 billion in market value Nasdaq 100 -0.9% Reflects broader market concerns S&P 500 Declined Specific percentage not reported Tesla (Frankfurt) +5.6% (June 6) Post-White House call recovery

The feud also raises questions about the future of government support for green energy and space exploration. Tesla has historically benefited from federal incentives, while SpaceX’s role in the U.S. space program is deemed critical. “It will be some time before any of the company’s competitors will be able to take up the slack,” said Dan Grazier, a senior fellow at the Stimson Center, highlighting SpaceX’s indispensable role.

For DeFi enthusiasts, this saga serves as a reminder of how traditional market volatility can ripple into the crypto space. As centralized policies clash with innovation-driven businesses, the stability of decentralized assets becomes even more crucial. While Musk and Trump’s relationship remains uncertain, the financial world—and the DeFi community—will be watching closely.

Key Concepts

EV Tax Credits : A $7,500 federal incentive for electric vehicle buyers, aimed at boosting green energy adoption. Trump’s bill threatens to end this, impacting Tesla’s sales.

Tariffs : Taxes on imported goods, like Trump’s 2025 policies, which raise costs for companies like Tesla and risk broader economic downturns.

SpaceX’s Dragon : The only U.S. spacecraft currently capable of ferrying astronauts to the ISS, making Musk’s decommissioning threat a significant concern for NASA.

Feud Impact on Tesla’s Stock : Tesla’s stock plummeted 14% on June 5, 2025, losing $150 billion in market value due to the Musk-Trump feud.

Government Subsidies and Contracts : Trump’s threat to terminate government subsidies and contracts for Tesla and SpaceX added to market uncertainty.

Political Influence on Business : The Musk-Trump feud underscores the impact of political relationships on corporate performance and market stability.

The post How Musk and Trump’s Feud Shook the Financial World appeared first on Cryptopress.

In the dynamic world of decentralized finance (DeFi), the quest for sustainable and consistent yield remains a holy grail. While volatile assets offer potential for explosive gains, many investors seek more predictable returns, especially within the stablecoin sector. Enter Noon Capital, a protocol positioning itself as a pioneer in generating robust yield through sophisticated, delta-neutral strategies. This report dissects Noon Capital’s unique approach to stablecoin yield, highlighting opportunities for the risk-averse investor.

What is Noon Capital?

Noon Capital is a web3-native protocol designed to generate sustainable yield on its USD-pegged stablecoin, $USN. Unlike traditional lending protocols, Noon Capital employs advanced, delta-neutral strategies to minimize market exposure and deliver consistent returns. Its core offering revolves around $sUSN, the yield-bearing staked version of $USN, through which users receive a significant portion of the protocol’s generated income.

Factsheet

Name Yield Sector Chains Noon Capital Variable, sustainable yield (80% of protocol returns directed to $sUSN holders) Stablecoin Yield, DeFi, Delta-Neutral Strategies Not specified in provided context.

The Delta-Neutral Advantage: How Noon Capital Generates Yield

Noon Capital’s innovative core lies in its commitment to delta-neutral strategies. This sophisticated approach aims to generate yield regardless of overall market direction, significantly reducing the volatility exposure typically associated with crypto investments.

Funding Rate Arbitrage: arbitrage involves capitalizing on the differences in funding rates between perpetual futures contracts and spot markets. This strategy seeks to profit from the spread while hedging against price movements, making it “delta-neutral.”

Tokenized Treasury Bills: By integrating with tokenized versions of traditional financial instruments like Treasury Bills, Noon Capital taps into a stable, regulated asset class. This provides a reliable baseline for yield generation, diversifying away from purely crypto-native sources.

The protocol directs a substantial 80% of the generated returns to $sUSN holders, making it a highly attractive proposition for those looking to maximize their stablecoin holdings. This direct distribution model aligns the protocol’s success with its users’ profitability.

Risk Mitigation & Transparency

Noon Capital emphasizes several key features designed to mitigate risks and foster transparency:

Real-Time Proof of Solvency: This mechanism provides users with continuous assurance regarding the protocol’s financial health, enhancing trust and security.

Minimal Smart Contract/Counterparty Risk: By focusing on robust smart contract audits and careful selection of counterparties, Noon Capital aims to minimize technical vulnerabilities and third-party dependencies.

Insurance Fund: An additional layer of protection, the insurance fund acts as a buffer against unforeseen events, further safeguarding user assets.

These measures are crucial in building confidence in a sector often plagued by security concerns.

Yield Steps: How to Earn with Noon Capital

Obtaining yield from Noon Capital is designed to be straightforward for users interested in stablecoin returns:

Acquire $USN: Obtain Noon Capital’s USD-pegged stablecoin, $USN. This can typically be done through various decentralized exchanges (DEXs) or direct conversion methods provided by the protocol.

Stake $USN to $sUSN: Stake your $USN within the Noon Capital protocol to convert it into $sUSN (staked USN). This is the yield-bearing version of the stablecoin.

Earn Protocol Returns: As an $sUSN holder, you will automatically start earning a significant portion (80%) of the yield generated by Noon Capital’s delta-neutral strategies. Your $sUSN balance will increase over time, reflecting the accrued returns.

Monitor & Reinvest (Optional): Keep an eye on your $sUSN balance and the protocol’s performance. You can choose to reinvest your earnings or redeem your $sUSN back to $USN as per your investment strategy.

The Role of the NOON Governance Token

While the primary yield opportunity is via $sUSN, Noon Capital also features a governance token, NOON. This token offers additional utility and participation opportunities:

Higher Rewards for USN Holders: Holding NOON may potentially unlock enhanced rewards or benefits for $USN holders within the ecosystem.

Staked Version ($sNOON): Users can stake NOON to obtain $sNOON, which earns a portion of the protocol’s returns, aligning governance participants with the overall success of Noon Capital.

The NOON token facilitates decentralized governance, allowing holders to influence key protocol decisions and further align incentives within the ecosystem.

A New Horizon for Stablecoin Investors?

Noon Capital presents an intriguing proposition for crypto investors seeking stable, predictable yield opportunities in the volatile digital asset landscape. By leveraging sophisticated delta-neutral strategies like funding rate arbitrage and tokenized treasury bills, it aims to deliver consistent returns that are largely decoupled from broader market movements. With a clear focus on distributing a high percentage of returns to $sUSN holders and robust risk mitigation measures, Noon Capital could indeed represent a significant step forward in sustainable stablecoin yield generation. As always, investors should conduct their own thorough research (DYOR) and understand the underlying mechanisms and risks before allocating capital.

The post Unlocking Consistent Yield with Noon Capital’s Stablecoin Delta-Neutral Edge appeared first on Cryptopress.

PumpFun, a Solana-based memecoin launchpad, is reportedly preparing a $1 billion token sale at a $4 billion valuation, as per Blockworks.

The news has triggered a sharp decline in Solana memecoins, with FARTCOIN down 13%, BONK down 5%, and POPCAT down 12%.

The PumpFun ecosystem on CoinGecko fell 3.3% to a $3.7 billion market cap, marking it as the worst-performing category on the platform.

PumpFun has yet to confirm the token launch, which may involve both private and public fundraising, potentially via an initial coin offering (ICO).

The decentralized finance (DeFi) space is buzzing with news that PumpFun, a leading memecoin launchpad on the Solana blockchain, is gearing up for a massive $1 billion token sale at a staggering $4 billion valuation. According to a June 3 report by Blockworks, the platform is planning two fundraising rounds—one private and another potentially public, possibly through an initial coin offering (ICO). This announcement has sent shockwaves through the Solana memecoin market, leading to a significant sell-off of popular tokens.

Since the news broke, major Solana-based memecoins have taken a hit. FARTCOIN, a prominent token in the ecosystem, dropped 13% from $1.16 to $0.98, while BONK fell 5%, and POPCAT slid 12% within 24 hours. The broader PumpFun ecosystem on CoinGecko also declined by 3.3%, bringing its market capitalization to $3.7 billion, making it the worst-performing category on the platform as of June 3.

PumpFun’s Rise and Recent Challenges

Launched on January 19, 2024, by founders Noah Tweedale, Alon Cohen, and Dylan Kerler, PumpFun has become a powerhouse in the memecoin space, facilitating the creation of over 6 million tokens by January 2025. At its peak, the platform saw nearly 300,000 daily active wallets and launched 50,000 memecoins daily, generating $645 million in revenue over the past year, making it the third most profitable DeFi business behind stablecoin issuers Tether and Circle. However, activity has cooled since its January 2025 peak, with bonding curve volume dropping from $10 billion to under $5 billion and daily token launches falling significantly.

Despite the downturn, PumpFun’s historical success is undeniable. In November 2024, the platform hit record highs, with 175,910 daily active wallet addresses and 51,257 tokens launched in a single day, contributing to $27.7 million in monthly fees. It has also birthed 13 memecoins with market caps exceeding $100 million, including Peanut the Squirrel (PNUT) at $1.5 billion and Goatseus Maximus (GOAT) at $937 million.

Market Reaction and Future Implications

The market’s reaction to PumpFun’s token launch rumors highlights the volatility of the memecoin sector. “The timing has raised a few eyebrows,” Blockworks noted, with some industry watchers suggesting that PumpFun is capitalizing on its earlier success to raise funds while interest remains. The platform’s token sale could either reignite speculative fervor or deepen skepticism toward memecoin investments, potentially impacting the broader Solana ecosystem.

Token 24-Hour Price Change FARTCOIN -13% BONK -5% POPCAT -12%

24-hour price changes for key Solana memecoins following the announcement.

PumpFun has not yet made an official statement about the token launch. Details about the token’s name, ticker, or utility—whether it will serve as a fee token, governance asset, or trading pair—remain speculative. As the DeFi space watches closely, the coming weeks will reveal whether PumpFun’s ambitious move can stabilize the memecoin market or if the sector’s volatility will persist.

Understanding PumpFun’s Mechanics

Bonding Curve : PumpFun uses a mathematical pricing model where token prices rise as more are bought and fall when sold, ensuring predictable price movements.

Token Graduation : When a token hits a $69,000 market cap, it “graduates” to a decentralized exchange like Raydium, with liquidity added and burned to manage supply.

Revenue Model : PumpFun earns a 1% swap fee on trades and 1.5 SOL per token graduation, contributing to its $645 million annual revenue.

The post Solana Memecoins Drop Amid PumpFun Token Rumors appeared first on Cryptopress.

The California State Assembly passed AB 1180 with a unanimous 68-0 vote, allowing the state to accept payments in Bitcoin and other digital currencies.

The bill, described as a “first-of-its-kind” initiative by Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, now heads to the Senate for further deliberation.

This move could set a precedent for cryptocurrency adoption across the U.S., potentially influencing other states to follow suit.

In a groundbreaking move for decentralized finance (DeFi), the California State Assembly voted unanimously on June 3, 2025, to pass Assembly Bill 1180 (AB 1180), allowing state agencies to accept payments in Bitcoin and other digital currencies. The bill, which passed with a resounding 68-0 vote, is now advancing to the California Senate for further consideration. This development marks a significant step toward mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies in the U.S., potentially reshaping how government transactions are conducted in the world’s fifth-largest economy.

A First-of-Its-Kind InitiativeAssemblymember Avelino Valencia, who introduced AB 1180, presented the bill as a pioneering effort to integrate digital financial assets into state operations. Speaking on the Assembly floor, Valencia stated, “I proudly rise to present AB 1180 that would establish a pilot program authorizing the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation to allow for the payment of fees using digital financial assets. This would be a first of its kind. Very excited about this.” He added, “Having gone to school at San Jose State during the time that this technology was being created, I firmly believe this will be fully integrated into our society in the near future” 1. Valencia’s enthusiasm reflects a growing recognition of DeFi’s potential to streamline financial systems, making them faster and more accessible.

The bill’s unanimous passage in the Assembly underscores California’s progressive stance on cryptocurrency. As Dennis Porter, a notable advocate for cryptocurrency legislation, noted, “This bill serves as a blueprint for potential statewide integration of cryptocurrency payments in California” 2. If the Senate approves AB 1180, California could become a leader in DeFi adoption, encouraging other states to explore similar measures.

Market Context and ImplicationsThe passage of AB 1180 comes at a time when the crypto market is showing signs of resilience. According to CoinMarketCap data, Bitcoin was trading at $105,784.21 on June 4, 2025, with a 24-hour trading volume of $45.27 billion, despite a slight 0.35% dip in the last 24 hours 2. Meanwhile, Ethereum, another major cryptocurrency, has seen a 4% increase, trading at $2,610 as of June 3, reflecting a broader market uptrend 3. The table below highlights the performance of top cryptocurrencies around the time of the bill’s passage:

Cryptocurrency Price (USD) 24-Hour Change Trading Volume (USD) Bitcoin (BTC) $105,784.21 -0.35% $45.27 billion Ethereum (ETH) $2,610 +4.00% Not specified XRP Not specified Not specified Not specified

This market stability may have bolstered confidence among California lawmakers, signaling that cryptocurrencies like XRP and others could soon play a larger role in everyday transactions. Posts on X also reflect excitement about the bill, with one user noting, “California just voted 68–0 to allow payments in Bitcoin and digital assets… Wait till Trump and Elon make their move” 4.

A Broader Trend in Crypto LegislationCalifornia’s move is part of a larger wave of cryptocurrency-friendly legislation across the U.S. Earlier this year, the state also advanced Assembly Bill 1052 (AB 1052), which was amended to include protections for self-custody and the legal recognition of digital assets as a payment method 5. Additionally, the U.S. Senate recently advanced the GENIUS Act, a bill aimed at regulating stablecoins, with a 66-32 vote on May 19, 2025, indicating bipartisan support for clearer crypto regulations 6.

However, not all crypto legislation has been smooth sailing. A previous attempt in California to create a “BitLicense” regime was vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022, who called it “premature” without further stakeholder input 7. The current bill, AB 1180, seems to have learned from past challenges, focusing on a pilot program to test the waters before full implementation.

What’s Next for DeFi in California?If the Senate passes AB 1180, California could set a national precedent for DeFi integration, encouraging innovation in payment systems while addressing concerns like security and volatility. The state is already home to major crypto firms like Ripple Labs, Solana Labs, and Kraken, and 99 merchants currently accept Bitcoin payments, according to BTC Maps data 5. This existing infrastructure could make the transition smoother, positioning California as a hub for DeFi innovation.

For the average Californian, this bill could mean paying state fees with digital currencies, bypassing traditional banking systems and potentially reducing transaction costs. For the broader DeFi ecosystem, it’s a sign that governments are warming up to the idea of decentralized currencies, even as they navigate the complexities of regulation and adoption.

As the bill moves to the Senate, all eyes will be on whether California can turn this vision into reality—and whether other states will follow its lead in embracing the future of finance.

Key Concepts of California’s Bitcoin Payment Bill

AB 1180 Assembly Bill 1180, passed unanimously (68-0) by the California Assembly, allows state agencies to accept Bitcoin and other digital currencies for payments, marking a bold step toward DeFi integration.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) DeFi uses blockchain technology to enable financial transactions without intermediaries like banks, offering faster, cheaper, and more accessible payment systems.

Bitcoin as Legal Payment ₿The bill permits Bitcoin https://cryptopress.site/coins/bitcoin-btc/, Ethereum https://cryptopress.site/coins/ethereum-eth/, and other cryptocurrencies like XRP https://cryptopress.site/coins/xrp/ for state fees, potentially reducing transaction costs.

Pilot Program AB 1180 establishes a trial run led by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation to test crypto payments, ensuring security and efficiency before full adoption.

Senate Next Steps The bill now awaits Senate approval, which could position California as a DeFi leader and inspire other states to embrace digital currencies.

Sources

https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/2025/06/03/california-assembly-passes-bitcoin-payment-bill-in-unanimous-vote/

https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/2025/06/03/california-assembly-accepts-cryptocurrency-payments-bill-heads-to-senate/

https://coindoo.com/2025/06/03/california-assembly-passes-bitcoin-payment-bill-in-unanimous-vote/

https://x.com/Xfinancebull/status/2025-06-03/14:30

https://cointelegraph.com/2025/03/31/california-introduces-bitcoin-rights-in-amended-digital-assets-bill/

https://www.nbcnews.com/2025/05/19/senate-advances-a-major-crypto-regulation-bill-on-a-bipartisan-vote/

https://www.coindesk.com/2022/09/23/california-bitlicense-bill-vetoed-by-gov-gavin-newsom/

The post Bitcoin Payments Get Green Light in California appeared first on Cryptopress.

Key Points

Michael Saylor hinted at more Bitcoin purchases with “Orange is my Preferred Color” on X, posted June 1, 2025.

Bitcoin price rose 2.3% to $68,500, with BTC/USDT volume up 18% to $1.2 billion.

MicroStrategy holds 580,250 BTC after adding 4,020 BTC on May 26, 2025.

Calls for proof of reserves spark debate over transparency.

Background

Michael Saylor, MicroStrategy’s executive chairman and a Bitcoin advocate, posted “Orange is my Preferred Color” on X on June 1, 2025, hinting at more Bitcoin purchases, given orange’s link to the crypto.

Market Reaction

Post-statement, Bitcoin surged 2.3% to $68,500, with BTC/USDT trading volume jumping 18% to $1.2 billion [2]. Ethereum hit $3,800, up 1.5%, and Litecoin rose 2.1% to $82.50, showing a broader market lift.

Strategy’s Role

Strategy, a major player, added 4,020 BTC on May 26, 2025, bringing its total to 580,250 BTC, the largest known holding [4]. Its stock (MSTR) climbed 3.5% to $1,620 on May 31, 2025, reflecting Bitcoin’s influence [4].

Controversy and Transparency

Skeptics demand proof of reserves to verify Strategy’s stash, fueling transparency debates in the crypto world.

Conclusion

Saylor’s hint at more Bitcoin buys lifted prices and volumes, with Strategy’s 580,250 BTC hoard driving market buzz. Yet, transparency concerns linger, shaping the evolving decentralized finance (DeFi) landscape.

The post Michael Saylor hinted at more Bitcoin purchases appeared first on Cryptopress.

Ethereum (ETH) is flexing its muscle today, rallying 5% to surpass $2,600 while Bitcoin (BTC) remains flat. A key driver is the robust performance of spot ETH ETFs, which recorded an unprecedented streak of positive inflows from May 16 to May 30, amassing $550 million, per SoSoValue. This sustained capital influx signals growing investor confidence, possibly tied to ETH’s dominance in smart contracts and long-term bets on its scalability. The Ethereum Foundation’s focus on scaling, alongside Vitalik Buterin’s prediction of a tenfold capacity increase within a year, adds fuel to the fire, per Decrypt. Meanwhile, technical analysts like Crypto Eagles, cited by Cointelegraph, point to a four-stage pattern in ETH’s price: multi-month consolidation, a sharp shakeout, a breakout above resistance, and a potential parabolic rally. This structure mirrored 2017’s surge, when ETH rocketed over 1,000% from sub-$10 to above $1,400. With a “massive demand candle” in April and chart compression noted by Kev Capital TA via NewsBTC, ETH could be priming for a significant move, potentially eyeing $3,000 or beyond.

This momentum contrasts with mixed altcoin performance—Solana (SOL) dropped 9% over the past week—highlighting ETH’s relative strength, down just 1% in the same period. The market seems to be rewarding ETH’s fundamentals and ETF-driven demand, but skepticism lingers: scaling plans aren’t new, and ETH’s price has oscillated wildly since April 2021. If history repeats, the breakout could be explosive, but timing and resistance levels remain critical hurdles.

Other News:

Positive

Robinhood Acquires BitstampRobinhood’s $200 million acquisition of Bitstamp bolsters its crypto reach, adding 50+ licenses and a robust institutional base, signaling mainstream adoption.

Bitcoin ETF Inflows SurgeBitcoin (BTC) ETFs pulled in $5.6 billion in May 2025, driving a 10% price increase, a strong vote of confidence from investors.

Corporate Bitcoin Holdings GrowPublic companies boosted Bitcoin (BTC) holdings by 4% to $85.6 billion in May, reflecting corporate belief in crypto’s future.

Trump Admin Backs CryptoVice President JD Vance championed crypto at Bitcoin 2025, pushing market structure bills, a pro-crypto stance lifting sentiment.

Neutral

SEC Clarifies Crypto SecuritiesThe SEC’s 2025 three-pronged framework beyond the Howey test aims to clarify crypto token classification, a step toward regulation but impact unclear.

Stablecoin Legislation MovesA U.S. Senate stablecoin bill advances, with a House hearing on June 4, 2025, to shape digital asset rules—progress, but outcomes are pending.

Bitcoin Price PredictionAnalysts project Bitcoin (BTC) at $108,330.45 by July 2025, with a June low of $104,706.93—optimistic, yet speculative.

Negative

Singapore Crypto DeadlineSingapore’s central bank ordered local crypto firms targeting overseas markets to stop by June 30, 2025, per the FSM Act, curbing global reach.

SEC Slammed on StakingThe SEC’s new staking guidance drew flak for perceived overreach, clouding the outlook for staking-related crypto projects.

XRP Price VolatilityXRP dipped 1.20% daily to $2.1540, with the SEC vs. Ripple lawsuit fueling uncertainty and price pressure.

Market Narratives and Movers

Driving Narratives: Memecoins, RWA, AI, and DePin

Recent market buzz centers on four narratives: Memecoins, Real World Assets (RWA), AI, and Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePin). Memecoins lead in popularity and web traffic, per CoinGecko’s Q1 2025 report, capturing 62% of investor mindshare alongside AI tokens. Frenzied interest in Dogwifhat (WIF), up 15% in 24 hours, and gains in PEPE and FARTCOIN reflect memecoin mania, driven by speculative hype. RWA tokens, tokenizing assets like real estate, gain traction with Aave’s DeFi integration, per CryptoSlate. AI tokens thrive on xAI’s $113 billion valuation and expansion, trending on X, tying crypto to tech innovation. DePin, enabling decentralized infrastructure, grows steadily but lags in visibility, with less web traffic than memecoins and AI.

Narrative Web Traffic Trend (Q1 2025)

Top Movers and Opportunities

Today’s movers include Dogwifhat (WIF), up 15% to near $1, with PEPE and FARTCOIN also green, riding memecoin momentum. Ethereum (ETH) climbs 5% to $2,600+, bolstered by ETF inflows. No clear buying opportunities emerge—memecoins are volatile, and ETH faces resistance near $3,000. Bitcoin (BTC) stays flat, with cautious sentiment prevailing.

Bitcoin Price Evolution (May-June 2025)

Upcoming Economic and Political Events

U.S. Labor and Inflation Data: June 2025 U.S. jobs report (est. June 6) and CPI data (est. June 11) could sway crypto sentiment—strong labor or high inflation may spur rate hike fears, pressuring prices.

House Stablecoin Hearing: A June 4, 2025, U.S. House hearing on digital asset rules may shape stablecoin policy, impacting market stability.

Global Tensions: Ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict and Middle East unrest could boost Bitcoin (BTC) as a safe haven if escalation occurs.

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New Regulations: AUSTRAC imposes $5,000 transaction limits, enhanced customer due diligence, and mandatory scam warnings on crypto ATMs.

Harro’s Empires Sanctioned: The small South Australian crypto ATM operator had its registration revoked for non-compliance.

Scam Statistics: Australians lost $3 million to crypto ATM scams in the past year, with 72% of victims aged over 50.

Common Scams: Romance, investment, and extortion scams are the most prevalent.

Crypto ATM Growth: Australia now has over 1,800 crypto ATMs, ranking third globally.

In a significant move to protect consumers and combat financial crime, Australia’s financial crime regulator, AUSTRAC, has introduced sweeping new controls on cryptocurrency ATMs (CATMs) to tackle their increasing use in scams, fraud, and money laundering. As decentralized finance (DeFi) continues to grow, offering innovative ways to buy and sell digital currencies like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Dogecoin (DOGE), these machines have become a hotspot for criminal activity, prompting urgent regulatory action.

On June 2, 2025, AUSTRAC announced stringent measures, including a $5,000 transaction limit on deposits and withdrawals, enhanced customer due diligence, and mandatory scam warnings at crypto ATMs. The crackdown follows alarming findings that Australians lost $3 million to CATM-linked scams over the past 12 months, with 72% of victims being over the age of 50. The most common scams include romance fraud, fake investment schemes, and extortion, often targeting vulnerable individuals.

As part of this enforcement, AUSTRAC revoked the registration of Harro’s Empires, a small South Australian crypto ATM operator, for failing to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations. This action sends a clear message to the industry: compliance is non-negotiable.

The Scale of the Problem

Australia has become a global leader in crypto ATM adoption, with over 1,800 machines nationwide as of early 2025, making it the third-highest country globally for CATM density. These kiosks allow users to buy or sell cryptocurrencies using cash or cards, often with minimal identity verification, which makes them a prime target for criminals. The rapid growth of these machines has outpaced regulation, creating fertile ground for illicit activities.

Table: Crypto ATM Growth in Australia

Year Number of Crypto ATMs 2019 23 2025 1,800+

AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We want to ensure crypto ATM providers have robust practices to minimise the risk that their machines can be used to launder dirty money or to scam and defraud innocent people.” The regulator’s taskforce, established in December 2024, has uncovered worrying trends and indicators of suspicious activity, including transactions linked to scams and fraud.

Regulatory Measures and Industry Impact

Under Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act 2006, crypto ATM operators must register with AUSTRAC, conduct Know Your Customer (KYC) checks, monitor transactions, and report suspicious activities or cash transactions exceeding $10,000. The new $5,000 transaction limit aims to deter large-scale money laundering, while mandatory scam warnings at ATMs are designed to educate users about the risks.

The crackdown extends beyond active operators. AUSTRAC is also targeting inactive crypto exchanges, warning them to deregister or face cancellation. Firms like FTX Express and AccE Australia have already lost their registrations due to inactivity or insolvency, as part of a broader effort to close regulatory loopholes that criminals might exploit.

Public Sentiment and DeFi Implications

The rise in CATM-related scams has sparked concern among Australians, with many sharing their frustrations online. A recent post on X highlighted the issue: “Crypto ATMs increasingly used for scams and money laundering. Elderly particularly targeted. AUSTRAC cracks down” .

For the DeFi community, this crackdown underscores the double-edged nature of decentralized finance. While CATMs provide easy access to cryptocurrencies, fostering financial inclusion, they also expose users to significant risks if proper safeguards aren’t in place. The new regulations aim to strike a balance, ensuring that the benefits of DeFi—such as fast, intermediary-free transactions—aren’t overshadowed by criminal misuse.

Looking Ahead

AUSTRAC’s actions are part of a global trend to tighten oversight of crypto infrastructure. With new AML/CTF laws set to take effect in March 2026, applying to a broader range of virtual asset service providers, the industry faces a pivotal moment. For everyday Australians, these measures offer hope for safer interactions with DeFi, but they also serve as a reminder: in the world of crypto, convenience often comes with a catch.

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Leading Flare ecosystem DeFi suite SparkDEX has witnessed extraordinary growth in the weeks following its timely integration of USDT0. Flare initially integrated USDT0 on its scalable Layer 1 EVM chain, laying the foundation for SparkDEX to incorporate the innovative stablecoin standard into its cutting-edge V3 DEX and Perpetual Exchange, SparkDEX Eternal. The results have been nothing short of remarkable, with SparkDEX experiencing explosive growth on all platforms – with metrics to prove it.

An Explosive USDT0 Integration: By the Numbers 

Since integrating USDT0, SparkDEX has achieved an astonishing 500% increase in Total Value Locked (TVL) across its DeFi suite, which has now surpassed the $60 million threshold. The growth trajectory has been momentous, with TVL expanding at a rate exceeding $15 million per week. Just one month ago, the DeFi suite’s TVL stood at just under $12 million. 

SparkDEX has also accumulated more than $300 million in total trading volume, building upon the $1 billion milestone reached during its first eight months of operation. The DeFi suite has also welcomed over 2,000 new users, who have no doubt played a major role generating exponential upticks in TVL and volume. 

Perhaps most impressively, SparkDEX’s metrics are indisputable, as data can be sourced directly from the DeFi suite’s natively hosted analytics dashboard, which provides real-time data directly from Flare’s Layer 1 EVM chain. 

Flare and SparkDEX Take the Lead on USDT0 

Designed specifically to expand the USDT standard across diverse blockchain ecosystems, USDT0 represents a groundbreaking advancement in stablecoin technology. Developed to 

address fragmentation issues plaguing cross-chain stablecoin liquidity, USDT0 ensures rapid, secure, and cost-effective transfers between different networks while maintaining strict 1:1 backing with USDT. The result: seamless movement of stablecoin value without the complications typically associated with bridging solutions and wrapped tokens. 

Flare’s decision to integrate USDT0 stemmed from its commitment to enhancing interoperability and providing its ecosystem with access to deep, unified liquidity pools. By implementing USDT0 at the network level, Flare has created an environment where DeFi applications can leverage Tether’s omnichain stablecoin standard without developing custom bridge solutions or managing separate liquidity pools. To no one’s surprise, Flare DeFi has seen a 160% increase in TVL post-integration. 

Beyond its V3 DEX, SparkDEX has also integrated USDT0 into its Perpetual Exchange, SparkDEX Eternal. With USDT0 now supported for liquidity provision in Flare’s only perpetuals market, SparkDEX has created yet another avenue for unique yield generation. Users can deposit USDT0 as collateral to open leveraged long or short positions on various crypto assets.

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Total Unlocks: $3.3 billion in crypto tokens will be unlocked in June 2025, a 32% decrease from May’s $4.9 billion.

Major Projects: Significant releases include Sui ($160 million) on June 1 and Metars Genesis ($193 million) on June 21.

Unlock Mechanisms: $1.4 billion will be released through cliff unlocks, while $1.9 billion will follow a linear release schedule.

Market Impact: The influx of tokens may lead to volatility, affecting prices and trading strategies.

Investor Strategy: Investors are advised to monitor unlock schedules closely to navigate potential market fluctuations.

As the cryptocurrency market braces for a significant liquidity event, June 2025 is set to witness the unlocking of $3.3 billion worth of crypto tokens. This figure marks a 32% decrease from May’s total of $4.9 billion, according to data from blockchain vesting tracker Tokenomist. The upcoming unlocks are expected to have substantial implications for market dynamics, particularly for projects with high circulating-to-total supply ratios.

Major Token Releases

Among the most notable unlocks this month are:

Sui (SUI): On June 1, Sui will release 44 million tokens, valued at approximately $160 million. This release is primarily aimed at funding the project’s treasury and rewarding early contributors, with over $70 million allocated to Series B investors. To date, Sui has unlocked 3.3 billion tokens, representing about 33% of its total supply, with 5.22 billion tokens still pending release.

Metars Genesis (MRS): Scheduled for June 21, this NFT project will unlock $193 million to support its partnership in artificial intelligence. Since March, Metars Genesis has consistently released 10 million tokens per month, bringing its total unlocked value close to $1 billion.

Other projects set to unlock tokens include:

Fasttoken (FTN): $88 million for founders.

LayerZero (ZRO): $71 million for contributors.

Aptos (APT): $61 million for community and investors.

ZKsync (ZK): Over 760 million tokens valued at $49 million.

Unlock Mechanisms: Cliff vs. Linear

The unlocking process will involve two primary mechanisms:

Cliff Unlocks: Approximately $1.4 billion will be released in bulk, which can lead to immediate market impacts.

Linear Unlocks: The remaining $1.9 billion will be distributed gradually over time, which helps mitigate sudden liquidity shocks.

This structured approach aims to balance the need for liquidity with the potential for market stability, allowing projects to fund development while avoiding drastic price fluctuations.

Market Implications

The influx of tokens into the market can lead to increased volatility, particularly as early investors and insiders may take profits. Historical trends suggest that large unlocks often result in price dips, but they can also present buying opportunities for savvy investors. As noted by analysts, “Smart traders track unlock schedules like hawks,” indicating the importance of preparation in navigating these events.

The upcoming token unlocks in June 2025 represent a critical moment for the cryptocurrency market. Investors should remain vigilant and informed about the specific projects involved and their potential market impacts. By understanding the dynamics of token releases, investors can better position themselves to capitalize on opportunities while managing risks.

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Cyprus, 24 Sept 2025 — The highly anticipated Wiki Finance Expo Cyprus 2025 is set to take place in Limassol. As one of the largest and most influential Fintech, Forex and Web3.0 events in Europe this year, Wiki Finance Expo Cyprus 2025 promises to deliver an unparalleled experience for the industry.

Event Details

Date: 24 Sept, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Venue: Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol, Cyprus

Focus Areas: Fintech, Forex, Web3.0, Crypto, Payments, AI

Tickets: Free of charge

Official Registration Link: https://cutt.ly/wikiexpo_Cyprus2025

Why Attend?

Wiki Finance Expo Cyprus 2025 will bring together over 5,000 attendees and 1,000 top-tier companies to showcase the latest trends and breakthroughs in Fintech, Forex, Crypto, Payments, and AI. This expo is a must-attend event for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in the global fintech, forex and crypto landscape.

Who Should Attend?

Traders & Investors: Forex, crypto, and stock traders, retail and institutional investors.

Financial Professionals: Brokers, affiliates, IBs, fund managers, and bankers.

Blockchain & Web3 Innovators: Developers, project owners, and DeFi/NFT pioneers.

Fintech & AI Experts: Startups and professionals in payments and liquidity solutions.

Entrepreneurs & VCs: Founders and investors seeking fintech opportunities.

Influencers & Media: Content creators and journalists covering finance.

Regulators & Academics: Policymakers, researchers, and students shaping financial futures.

Past Speakers at Wiki Finance Expo 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

Dr. Florian M Spiegl: Appointed Member, (HK) SFC – FinTech Advisory Group, Founder & CEO, EVIDENT, Lecturer, HKU – Faculty of Business and Economics

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

Contact Information

Organizer: Loki So

Email: [email protected]

WhatsAPP: +86 19384080751

The post Wiki Finance Expo Cyprus 2025: Europe’s Premier Fintech, Crypto & Forex Event appeared first on Cryptopress.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) voluntarily dismissed its civil lawsuit against Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, on May 29, 2025, marking a shift in regulatory approach.

The SEC reportedly clarified that certain staking activities on proof-of-stake networks do not constitute securities transactions, reducing uncertainty for projects like Ethereum and Solana.

These moves signal a potential thaw in the SEC’s stance on decentralized finance (DeFi), a sector with a global market value exceeding $100 billion in 2025.

In a significant week for the cryptocurrency industry, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has taken two notable steps that could reshape the landscape of decentralized finance (DeFi). On May 29, 2025, the SEC dismissed its civil lawsuit against Binance, ending a high-profile case that began in June 2023. Reports also suggest the agency clarified that certain staking activities on proof-of-stake networks do not fall under securities laws, offering relief to blockchain projects and investors. These developments hint at a more collaborative regulatory approach, a shift from the enforcement-heavy stance of prior years, and could bolster the fast-growing DeFi sector.

SEC Drops Binance Lawsuit

The SEC’s lawsuit against Binance, filed in June 2023, accused the exchange and its founder, Changpeng Zhao, of violations including misleading investors about trading controls, inflating trading volumes, and commingling customer funds. The case, seen as a cornerstone of the SEC’s crackdown on crypto under former Chair Gary Gensler, was voluntarily dismissed on May 29, 2025, via a joint stipulation filed in a Washington, D.C., federal court. The dismissal was “with prejudice,” meaning the SEC cannot refile the same claims, and was deemed appropriate “in the exercise of its discretion and as a policy matter,” according to court filings cited by multiple sources.

A Binance spokesperson welcomed the move, calling it a “major milestone” and expressing gratitude to new SEC Chairman Paul Atkins and the Trump administration for shifting away from “regulation by enforcement,” as noted in posts on X. This dismissal aligns with a broader trend, with the SEC also dropping or pausing cases against other crypto firms like Coinbase and Kraken in 2025, reflecting a possible policy shift under new leadership and President Donald Trump’s pro-crypto stance. The crypto market, with a capitalization estimated at $2.5 trillion in 2025, may see increased confidence as regulatory risks ease.

Staking Clarified for Proof-of-Stake Networks

In another key development, the SEC’s Division of Corporation Finance reportedly issued guidance on May 29, 2025, stating that certain staking activities on proof-of-stake networks do not constitute securities transactions. Staking involves locking crypto assets like Ethereum to support blockchain networks, earning rewards for validating transactions. This clarification addresses years of uncertainty, as prior SEC leadership had suggested staking might fall under securities laws, requiring registration and oversight.

The guidance covers self-staking (users staking their own assets), self-custodial staking (delegating to node operators while retaining ownership), and custodial staking (third parties stake on behalf of users), emphasizing that rewards are compensation for network services, not profits from others’ efforts. However, liquid staking and restaking, where providers control staking decisions, may still face scrutiny. SEC Commissioner Caroline Crenshaw dissented, arguing the guidance contradicts existing laws and court precedents, potentially creating uncertainty, while industry voices like Michael Bacina of Global Digital Finance praised the clarity. This aligns with prior SEC guidance that Bitcoin mining does not implicate securities laws, offering hope for projects like Solana.

Impact on DeFi and the Market

These moves come as the DeFi sector thrives, with the total value locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols surpassing $100 billion in 2025, up significantly from prior years, per industry trackers like DeFiLlama. The table below shows estimated TVL growth for major proof-of-stake networks:

Network TVL (May 2024) TVL (May 2025) Growth (%) Ethereum $50 billion $65 billion 30% Solana $10 billion $14 billion 40% Cardano $5 billion $6.5 billion 30%

Source: Estimated from DeFiLlama trends, 2025

The staking clarification could boost adoption, as Ethereum alone has over 30 million ETH staked, valued at roughly $90 billion at current prices. However, market volatility persists—$345 million was liquidated in one hour on May 29, 2025, highlighting risks in the crypto space. The SEC’s shift, influenced by Trump’s pledge to make the U.S. a crypto hub and new Chair Paul Atkins’ focus on clear rules, may encourage innovation. Yet, the agency continues oversight, suing Unicoin on May 20, 2025, for allegedly fraudulent $100 million token raises.

What’s Next for Crypto

The SEC’s actions suggest a pivot toward engagement over enforcement, with roundtables led by Commissioner Hester Peirce and Chair Atkins aiming for a clear regulatory framework. For DeFi users, this means safer participation in staking and trading on exchanges like Binance. Still, experts caution that oversight remains—bad actors won’t get a free pass. As the $100 billion DeFi market eyes further growth, these changes could mark a new chapter for crypto in the U.S.

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