He hid a gold treasure worth $1.5 million in the Rocky Mountains & left clues to its location in 24-line poem. For 10 years, people risked their lives to search for it, & only shortly before his death was it discovered in Wyoming.
Forrest Fenn, an antiquities dealer, captured public attention in 2010 when he announced he had hidden a treasure chest filled with gold coins, nuggets, and other valuables in the Rocky Mountains.
The treasure's value was estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million, and it is believed that around 350,000 people searched for it over the years.
His goal was to encourage people to explore nature and to offer a chance for instant wealth. The inspiration for the hunt came from the joy he found in collecting artifacts and a personal cancer diagnosis.
To guide the search, Fenn included a 24-line poem with clues in his 2010 book, "The Thrill of the Chase".
On June 6, 2020, he announced that the treasure had been found in Wyoming by a man from the East Coast who initially remained anonymous. The finder was later identified as Jack Stuef who located the chest by solving the poem's clues.
This guy makes $1.6M a day selling beef, fish, and organic chicken.
His name’s Mike. Here’s how it happened.
1/ Early days
Rewind to 2015. Mike’s wife just got diagnosed with a thyroid condition. And she’s on a strict diet. No gluten. No dairy. And only grass-fed beef.
So Mike starts shopping. But this fancy beef is hard to find.
After lots of searching, he lands a local farmer who sells it. Just one catch — Mike needs to buy the whole cow.
This is nuts. So he gets creative.
He buys the cow, divvies it up, and splits the meat with friends from the neighborhood. They love it.
High quality meat, straight from the farm, delivered to your door.
That worked well. And this gives Mike a big idea.
2/ Testing the business
If his neighbours appreciate farm-to-front-door beef, Mike figures others will like it too.
So he opens his laptop and throws up a kickstarter. He launches a beef subscription box campaign, with a goal of $25,000.
Turns out people are hungry for it. He raises $215,000 in a month. Now he’s got proof.
So Mike gets to work:
+ he starts dialling local farmers to build his supply
+ he finds a processor who can pack the meat
+ he partners with a shipper to deliver boxes directly to customers
Finally he comes up with a name: ButcherBox
Now it’s time to sell.
3/ Meat in motion
The business is simple. Customers can subscribe for about $130/mth. That gets you a curated box of grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and a bunch of bacon.
In year one, ButcherBox racks up $3 million in sales. Year two is $13M. And year three is a ridiculous $30M.
He’s doing it all with no outside capital and just 25 employees.
Things are looking good. And then something bad happens.
It’s March 2020. The world shuts down. People lock their doors. And ButcherBox is about to go on a wild ride.
4/ Explosive growth
Suddenly there are 100's of new customers signing up every hour. Way too many to handle.
And this could break the company. Mike’s gotta keep the meat moving or this business might crumble. Again, it’s time to get creative.
→ His meat suppliers are running empty. So he locks in guaranteed purchase orders to keep the food flowing.
→ His shippers can’t move meat fast enough. So he charters private jets to fly in boxes and dry ice.
→ His support team is drowning. So he rapidly hires dozens of people to handle the flood of customers.
It’s chaos. But it’s working. ButcherBox grows faster than ever.
Sales smash through $100M. And they just keep on growing. Delivering more meat to more doorsteps than anyone else.
Analyst Predicts Multi-Digit XRP Price Surge by 2025
A Russian analyst predicts a surge in XRP prices to $7–8 in the short term and potentially $13 if momentum continues, with long-term projections reaching $50–100. Despite the lack of official Ripple confirmation, similar bullish forecasts from analysts fuel discussions on potential XRP growth under favorable market conditions. A Russian analyst predicts XRP could reach $7–$100, sparking discussions within the crypto community. Community analysts like XRPunkie and Ali Martinez suggest a potential peak of $13–$22, but emphasize large-scale adoption as a necessity for sustained growth. XRPunkie, Ali Martinez, and Egrag Crypto have mentioned bullish projections on social platforms. Although no official Ripple leadership confirmed the exact targets, these analysts highlight potential gains paralleling historic trends and high-cap cryptocurrency movements. Analyst forecasts have invigorated the XRP community, drawing attention to potential financial gains. These predictions are influencing market sentiment among investors, traders, and stakeholders. Current analysis bases potential XRP ascends on historic technical patterns and overall crypto market trends. "The technical structure favors a Wave 3 rally; breakout could extend XRP toward $13 and possibly range between $10–$15…" — XRPunkie, Crypto Analyst Financial markets are observing shifts in large-cap cryptocurrencies, with XRP's movement tied to Bitcoin and Ethereum's momentum. Past trends suggest major price rallies are possible, contingent on broader market conditions and regulatory developments. While speculative, these forecasts underscore the importance of XRP within the crypto ecosystem. Understanding historical market cycles, analyst projections emphasize the critical role of successful technology adoption in driving XRP prices to new highs. Predicted XRP price ranges reflect analysts' confidence in eventual market recovery and expansion. These predictions align with narratives around macroeconomic drivers, regulatory influence, and XRP's role in future payment solutions.
Standard Chartered Raises Ethereum Price Target to $7,500 for 2025
Standard Chartered has increased its Ethereum price target to $7,500 by the end of 2025, attributing the rise to growing institutional investment and regulatory advancements. This upgrade could significantly influence the crypto landscape, driving key institutional inflows and potentially reshaping Ethereum's role within decentralized finance and technology infrastructure. Standard Chartered forecasts Ethereum's price to reach $7,500 by end-2025, driven by accelerated institutional demand. This upgrade highlights rising confidence in Ethereum, reflecting potential impacts on market dynamics and investment flows. Ethereum Target Boosted by Institutional Demand Standard Chartered has issued an Ethereum price upgrade to $7,500 by 2025. Factors influencing this include accelerated institutional buying and improved regulatory conditions. The bank's projection considers U.S. legislative changes like the GENIUS Act, alongside Ethereum's Layer 1 and Layer 2 scaling roadmap as pivotal to growth. Institutional Buy-In Inflates Ethereum Expectations Institutional capital inflows into Ethereum are happening at a faster rate than during Bitcoin's peak periods. Regulatory advancements are facilitating greater investment confidence. The financial sector is observing these changes keenly, anticipating changes in staking economics and network scalability due to ongoing upgrades and institutional engagement. "Institutional buying has accelerated to nearly twice the pace of Bitcoin accumulation during peak periods. This, combined with pro-crypto U.S. legislation, especially the GENIUS Act for stablecoin oversight, marks a pivotal change for Ethereum." - Geoff Kendrick, Global Head of Digital Assets Research, Standard Chartered Past Ethereum Predictions and Current Trajectory Historically, bullish forecasts by large banks have led to increased institutional participation. Past ETH upgrades, like “The Merge”, saw network activity spikes. Based on historical trends, Ethereum's scaling and regulatory progress could further attract institutional interest, affecting overall market liquidity and investment patterns.
As Bitcoin rises towards a remarkable $121,000, U.S. stock markets are experiencing a pronounced upswing. In this context, tariffs have been under scrutiny, having been implemented at April levels for all countries for almost two weeks. President Trump considers tariffs integral to managing the burgeoning U.S. debt. This raises questions about the achievement of annual revenue targets and their implications for the world of cryptocurrencies. What Drives Increasing Tariff Revenues? Efforts to decipher the impact of tariffs are intensifying with each new economic report from the U.S. Observing the trend in tariff revenues is pivotal to understanding their role in the economy. An unprecedented 300% surge in July’s customs duty revenues to $29.6 billion underscores the growing significance of tariffs. Should this trend continue, total annual revenue from tariffs could hit the $350 billion mark during Trump’s presidency. Moreover, this has indirectly led to Apple announcing a substantial $600 billion investment in the U.S., hoping for tariff exemptions. How Are Cryptocurrencies Affected? July saw tariff revenues at a staggering $30 billion; yet the budget deficit swelled by 19%, hitting $47 billion. The government’s expense outstripped $630 billion that month, spotlighting the limitations of tariffs in tackling deficit growth. Consequently, as mandatory interest rate cuts loom in response, gold and Bitcoin have strengthened their positions. TKL’s latest analysis compares current tariffs to those initiated in 2018. Back then, monthly revenues peaked below $10 billion, but today, they have tripled, and a prospective China deal could push them higher still. In 2025 alone, monthly tariff revenues advanced significantly: March garnered $8 billion, climbing to $30 billion by July. Despite a temporary 90-day halt, the totals have surged above $100 billion, fueled by escalating trading volumes amid anticipations of heightened taxes. Whether current tariff revenues can bridge the U.S. debt is questionable, as higher costs persist. Despite Trump’s strategy to use customs revenues to stem the deficit, this task remains elusive. “The persistently rising customs revenues suggest the tariffs’ effects on inflation won’t be fully understood until these revenues stabilize.” Concluding from these developments, there are key points to consider: Customs revenue in July hit a new high at $30 billion while the U.S. budget deficit rose to $47 billion.Apple’s proposed $600 billion investment highlights the broader implications of tariff strategies on industries.A potential trade deal with China could further elevate tariff revenues. The future suggests that tariffs might challenge corporate tax revenues in importance. While Trump could declare historic U.S. income figures, the deep-rooted debt issue resulting from excessive spending may be sidelined. This scenario supports continued crypto gains, illustrating a persistent economic resilience.
Bitcoin Shows Negative Kimchi Premium of 0.92% on August 14
Bitcoin shows negative Kimchi Premium of 0.92% on August 14. As of 12:00 AM KST on August 14, Bitcoin (BTC) was trading at 165.20 million KRW on South Korea’s leading cryptocurrency exchange Upbit, marking a 0.55% increase from the previous day. Meanwhile, BTC was priced at 166.73 million KRW on Binance, resulting in a price gap of -1.53 million KRW and a Kimchi Premium of -0.92%. Ethereum (ETH), the leading altcoin, is currently showing a negative Kimchi Premium of -0.84%. Other major altcoins are also trading at discounts compared to global prices: Solana (SOL) at -0.74%, Ripple (XRP) at -0.73%, Dogecoin (DOGE) at -0.70%, and Shiba Inu (SHIB) at -0.95%. Most top altcoins are reflecting negative Kimchi Premiums in the -0.7% to -0.9% range. #BinanceTurns8
Binance Bolsters Security Against North Korean Cyber Threats
Binance has intensified its security measures in response to escalating North Korean cyber threats, collaborating with global agencies to combat attacks affecting major exchanges like Bybit and WazirX. The enhanced security measures reflect a crucial shift in the crypto industry's defense strategy amid growing cyber threats, impacting market security and regulatory cooperation. Binance Bolsters Security Against North Korean Cyber Threats Binance and the crypto sector respond to increasing cyber threats linked to North Korea. This escalation includes new security measures aimed at countering the tactics used by groups like Lazarus. Nick Carlsen, North Korea expert at TRM Labs, noted, "The Bybit exploit indicates that the regime is intensifying its 'flood the zone' technique—overwhelming compliance teams, blockchain analysts, and law enforcement agencies with rapid, high-frequency transactions across multiple platforms, thereby complicating tracking efforts." The operation involves key industry leaders such as Bybit and government agencies. They have implemented stronger compliance strategies and stressed user awareness to mitigate these cyber challenges. Immediate consequences affect multiple crypto exchanges with vulnerabilities being exploited. Bybit suffered a significant hack, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Ben Zhou, CEO of Bybit, stated, "Despite immediate intervention, 20% of the stolen funds had already been laundered through mixing services, making them nearly impossible to trace." Financial impacts include the theft of billions in crypto assets, causing on-chain movements of major cryptocurrencies such as ETH and BTC. Mixers and OTC networks obscure the trail of these assets. These cyber attacks premise on evolving methods beyond previous phishing techniques, challenging traditional security paradigms. The global cooperation among exchanges and regulators aims to fortify defenses, with increased spending on forensics and compliance training.
The crypto world is buzzing again, and this time it’s about $PENGU. Investors and traders are closely watching this project as a potential breakout looms on the horizon. One of the biggest reasons for this excitement is the pending ETF filing—an exchange-traded fund that would give more traditional investors access to $PENGU without direct exposure to crypto wallets or exchanges. What makes this even more promising is the fact that the ETF is backed by CBOE, one of the largest and most reputable stock exchanges in the U.S. This gives $PENGU a layer of legitimacy that few emerging cryptocurrencies enjoy. An ETF approval could open the floodgates for institutional money to pour in. SEC Review Signals Credibility Another major development is the ongoing SEC review. While regulatory scrutiny can sometimes slow down projects, in this case, it adds weight to $PENGU’s legitimacy. A project under formal SEC review—especially with CBOE’s support—means it’s playing by the rules. This could be reassuring for cautious investors who typically avoid speculative tokens. If approved, the ETF could be a first of its kind in its niche, and that uniqueness alone could drive demand. It also sets a precedent for other altcoins, positioning $PENGU as a leader in regulatory compliance and innovation. Asia Is Fueling Rapid Adoption On top of these developments, $PENGU is expanding rapidly in Asia. The project has seen a significant uptick in partnerships, exchange listings, and user adoption across key Asian markets like South Korea, Japan, and Singapore. This regional growth is important because Asia continues to be a dominant player in the global crypto landscape. The combination of strong fundamentals, regulatory momentum, and global expansion suggests that $PENGU isn’t just having a moment—it’s preparing for a full-blown breakout.
Binance has scheduled the removal of three spot trading pairs for August 15.In contrast to the delisting effort, the exchange launched AIO/USDT and XNY/USDT perpetual contracts with up to 50x leverage.
The Latest Amendment Binance conducts periodic reviews of all listed spot trading pairs and sometimes delists some due to factors like poor liquidity and volume. Most recently, it announced the removal of ANIME/FDUSD, HYPER/FDUSD, and STO/BNB. The pairs will be effectively scrapped from the platform on August 15. “Users are strongly advised to update and/or cancel their Spot Trading Bots prior to the cessation of Spot Trading Bots services to avoid any potential losses,” Binance recommended. The exchange revealed that the delisting does not affect the availability of the tokens on Binance Spot. It said clients “can still trade the spot trading pairs’ base and quote assets on other trading pair(s)” that are available on the platform. Typically, the withdrawal of support from a crypto behemoth like Binance has a negative impact on the prices of the affected cryptocurrencies. This wasn’t the case here with ANIME jumping by 16% daily, while HYPER and STO posted more modest gains. Their rallies coincide with the broader resurgence of many of the well-known altcoins. Ethereum (ETH) is up 8% on a 24-hour scale and currently trades above $4,700, while Solana (SOL) soared by 15% to surpass $200. Other Updates Earlier this month, Binance announced a zero-fee trading promotion for VIP 2-9 users and spot liquidity providers. The campaign will cover the BNB/USDC, ADA/USDC, TRX/USDC, and XRP/USD trading pairs and will run from August 12 until October 11. Just a few hours ago, the company launched AIO/USDT and XNY/USDT perpetual contracts with up to 50x leverage. These products allow users to bet on the price of the aforementioned cryptocurrencies without owning them, and have no expiration date. OlaXBT (AIO) experienced a major uptick of almost 50% shortly after the disclosure. After all, the support from Binance increases the asset’s liquidity and visibility, providing it with a solid reputational boost. However, Codatta (XNY) headed in the opposite direction. It currently trades at approximately $0.015, representing a 20% decline on a daily scale.
BONK, a Solana-based meme coin, surged to $0.000027 in August 2025 before facing profit-taking, leading to a 6-8% price reduction due to institutional selling. The event reflects typical meme token volatility, highlighting potential market instability and a lack of official commentary, influencing investor perception and market conditions. BONK's 10% Surge Amid Institutional Activity BONK, a Solana-based meme coin, experienced a price surge to $0.000027. This was followed by profit-taking and substantial institutional selling, leading to a decrease in value. Originally a community-driven project, BONK aims to revitalize Solana's ecosystem. The surge involved no new announcements from BONK's team, emphasizing decentralized development. Institutional interest was highlighted by a $25 million purchase from Safety Shot. However, absence of official statements caused market uncertainty, with investors awaiting further updates.
Market Turbulence: BONK's Price Decline and Community Reaction The sharp sell-off reduced BONK's price by 6-8% (John Doe, Analyst, Crypto Insights). Solana and associated tokens saw correlated impacts, highlighting market interdependencies. Community sentiment was turbulent with high engagement on social platforms. Investors remain cautious. Market data indicates a spike in BONK's liquidity on DEXs during the event. Institutional buying hints at potential long-term confidence. No comments from major developers or regulatory bodies were noted, maintaining regulatory status quo for meme coins like BONK. BONK's Volatility: A Pattern in Meme Coin Behavior BONK's volatility mirrors previous events where sudden price rises led to profit-taking. Similar patterns were noted in late 2022 and 2024, affirming meme token-driven speculative behavior. Community eagerly waits for guidance from developers. Experts suggest caution amid volatility until official guidance is offered. Historical trends of meme coins, including past retracements, indicate potential short-term risks. Long-term interest remains due to community dynamics and decentralized development focus.
US Treasury Secretary Bessent Issues His Clearest Call Yet! He Announces Interest Rate Expectations!
Following the US inflation data released yesterday, expectations for the first interest rate cut of 2025 increased in September. While the 25 basis point interest rate cut in September is priced in at over 90%, calls for the Fed to cut interest rates in the US continue unabated. At this point, the final call came from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, making his clearest call to date. Speaking to Bloomberg TV, Bessent said there was a possibility of a large interest rate cut in September. Treasury Secretary Bessent, who stated that the FED should cut interest rates by 150-175 basis points, said that the FED should start cutting interest rates with 50 basis points next month. Bessent, who stated that a 50 basis point cut is likely in September, argued that the interest rate should actually be at least 1.5 basis points lower than the current one. “I think we could enter a series of rate cuts, starting with a 50 basis point cut in September.“Whatever model you look at, it shows we should probably have a 150, 175 basis point lower interest rate.” Bessent also noted the sharp decline in nonfarm payrolls data as a positive, saying, “This tells me that the probability of a 50 basis point cut is very high. That's why I'm hopeful about the September meeting.” Speaking about the Fed chairmanship, Bessent said that 10-11 candidates were being evaluated to replace Jerome Powell when his term ends in May, but the names have not been finalized. Bessent stated that the list includes both current FED officials and individuals from the private sector. The Treasury Secretary stated that Donald Trump is open-minded about the Fed chair, adding that Trump is looking at names like Janet Yellen and John Taylor. *This is not investment advice.
Latest Web3 Challenger Coldware Could Overshadow SUI As it Approaches Hardware Launch
The Web3 landscape has seen fierce competition among Layer-1 chains and smart contract platforms, but one new entrant is drawing comparisons to Sui (SUI)—and may soon eclipse it. Coldware (COLD) is rapidly gaining momentum as it merges the power of blockchain with encrypted, real-world hardware. With over $7.7 million raised, a 50% flash sale live, and physical product launches around the corner, Coldware is drawing comparisons to Sui—but could soon overshadow it. While Sui (SUI) focuses on on-chain scalability and Move-based smart contracts, Coldware (COLD) is building a hardware-first Web3 ecosystem, combining smartphones, laptops, and encrypted apps within a Layer-1 network that prioritizes security, decentralization, and real-world use. Larna 2400: A Web3 Smartphone Built for Encrypted Ownership At the core of Coldware’s offering is the Larna 2400, a mobile device that offers end-to-end encryption, cold storage, wallet connectivity, private messaging, and staking—all on one decentralized device. With a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, 5000mAh battery, IP68 water resistance, and integrated seed vault, the Larna 2400 directly competes with flagship smartphones—yet offers decentralized benefits that Apple, Samsung, and Google do not. Coldware doesn’t stop at phones. The upcoming Coldbook® laptop, Coldware’s dVPN app, and the Coldware dApp Store form a secure digital workspace tailored for retail and enterprise users alike. These products operate on the Coldware Layer-1 mainnet and corporate-focused subnet, providing tailored environments for both public users and institutional adopters. Presale Stage 3 Live – With Major Momentum Building The Coldware (COLD) presale is in Stage 3, currently priced at $0.008 USDT per token, with over 1.33 billion tokens sold and a fast-approaching next-stage price of $0.00975. A limited-time “50FLASH” promo code gives buyers 50% bonus tokens, increasing the appeal of this early investment phase. Unlike many token-only Layer-1s, Coldware offers immediate value through its hardware-driven network. Investors are not just buying into speculative software—they’re buying into a real ecosystem that merges Presale Momentum Confirms Confidence Coldware (COLD)’s presale has already attracted millions in early-stage investment, marking it as one of 2025’s most anticipated launches. The enthusiasm comes not only from its roadmap but also from the imminent hardware rollout. Investors aren’t just buying a token—they’re buying into an experience that merges Web3 with everyday digital behavior. Sui (SUI) Has Momentum, But Coldware (COLD) Offers Tangibility Sui (SUI) has built an impressive technical foundation with its Move-based architecture and high-performance throughput. Analysts, including Alex Clay, have identified bullish chart structures suggesting the token could push beyond $9.00 or even reach $11.70 in a full breakout. Sui (SUI) recently flipped Solana in daily active addresses, underscoring rapid network adoption and dApp engagement. Yet Coldware (COLD)’s physical product strategy offers a different kind of momentum: one rooted in real-world usability and ownership. By integrating staking, governance, messaging, and Web3 tools into mobile and desktop hardware, Coldware (COLD) solves onboarding and secure key management—key issues many software-only platforms have yet to address. Utility-First vs Software-First Philosophy Sui (SUI) relies on throughput and software excellence. Coldware (COLD) builds on end-user accessibility. While Sui (SUI) might promise scalability, Coldware (COLD) delivers tangible tools that extend Web3 beyond the browser and into users’ hands. The ability to own your Web3 identity, encrypt communications, and manage assets via Coldware devices gives the project an advantage with real-world use cases. conclusion Sui (SUI) has delivered impressive network stats and bullish signals, but Coldware (COLD) introduces a new category of Web3 utility. As its hardware launch approaches, Coldware (COLD) isn’t just a Layer-1 alternative—it’s a disruptive force that could reshape how people interact with blockchain technology.
The cryptocurrency world has once again been rocked by a significant security incident, highlighting the ongoing challenges within the decentralized finance space. A prominent memecoin launchpad exploit has left Odin.fun, a Bitcoin-based platform, reeling from a substantial financial blow. This event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks and the critical need for robust security measures in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. What Happened at Odin.fun? A Deep Dive into the Security Breach Recently, Odin.fun, a platform known for launching Bitcoin-based memecoins, suffered a major security breach. The incident resulted in a staggering loss of 58.2 BTC, which translates to approximately $7 million. This significant amount of lost funds has naturally caused concern across the community. According to reports from Decrypt, the platform immediately suspended trading operations following the discovery of the exploit. The team behind Odin.fun has indicated plans to resume services sometime next week, though the full extent of the damage and recovery process remains under close scrutiny. This Odin.fun security breach underscores the vulnerabilities that even seemingly robust platforms can face. Understanding the Crypto Liquidity Exploit Mechanism The core of the problem at Odin.fun was identified as a liquidity manipulation attack. In simpler terms, an attacker exploited a weakness in how the platform managed its liquidity pools. This allowed them to unfairly drain funds. Here’s a breakdown of how such an attack typically works: Identifying Vulnerabilities: Attackers often look for flaws in smart contracts or protocol logic related to token swaps and liquidity provision.Manipulating Prices: By exploiting these flaws, they can artificially inflate or deflate the price of tokens within the pool.Draining Funds: Once prices are manipulated, the attacker executes transactions that allow them to withdraw more assets than they deposited, effectively stealing from the pool. This type of crypto liquidity exploit is not new to the DeFi space, but each incident serves as a painful lesson for both users and developers. It highlights the importance of rigorous audits and continuous monitoring. The Broader Impact on Bitcoin Memecoin Platforms The incident at Odin.fun casts a shadow over the burgeoning sector of Bitcoin-based memecoins. While memecoins are often characterized by their community-driven nature and viral appeal, incidents like this can erode user trust. The promise of innovative new tokens launched on a Bitcoin-based memecoin platform can be overshadowed by security concerns. For users, the immediate concern is the safety of their investments and the reliability of the platforms they choose. For developers and project teams, it reinforces the need to prioritize security from the ground up. This incident might lead to increased scrutiny and demand for higher security standards across all new launchpads. Lessons from the Memecoin Launchpad Exploit: Enhancing User Safety Every exploit, while damaging, offers crucial lessons. The memecoin launchpad exploit at Odin.fun is no exception. For users, it emphasizes the importance of due diligence before engaging with any new platform, especially those dealing with high-risk assets like memecoins. Consider the following: Research Thoroughly: Investigate the platform’s history, team, and security audits.Understand Risks: Be aware that decentralized finance carries inherent risks, including smart contract vulnerabilities and rug pulls.Diversify: Avoid putting all your funds into a single high-risk venture. For platforms, the lesson is clear: security must be paramount. Regular, independent security audits are non-negotiable, and transparent communication with users during and after an incident is vital for maintaining credibility. Strengthening Decentralized Finance Security for the Future The Odin.fun incident serves as a stark reminder that strengthening decentralized finance security is an ongoing battle. As the DeFi ecosystem grows, so too do the sophistication of attacks. Developers must continuously innovate their security protocols, implement multi-layered defenses, and engage with the broader security community to identify and patch vulnerabilities quickly. Moreover, the community plays a vital role in identifying suspicious activities and reporting them. Collaborative efforts between users, developers, and security researchers are essential for building a more resilient and trustworthy DeFi environment. The goal is to create a future where such exploits become rarer, and user funds remain safe. In conclusion, the $7 million loss suffered by Odin.fun due to a liquidity manipulation attack is a significant event for the memecoin and broader crypto space. It highlights the persistent security challenges within decentralized finance. While recovery efforts are underway, this incident serves as a critical reminder for both platforms and users to prioritize robust security measures and exercise caution in this dynamic market. Learning from such events is crucial for fostering a more secure and sustainable future for crypto innovation. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What is Odin.fun? A1: Odin.fun is a Bitcoin-based memecoin launchpad designed to facilitate the creation and initial distribution of new memecoins built on the Bitcoin blockchain. Q2: How much money did Odin.fun lose in the exploit? A2: Odin.fun lost 58.2 BTC, which was valued at approximately $7 million at the time of the exploit. Q3: What type of attack caused the loss? A3: The loss was caused by a liquidity manipulation attack, where an attacker exploited vulnerabilities in the platform’s liquidity pools to drain funds. Q4: Is Odin.fun planning to resume operations? A4: Yes, Odin.fun has stated its intention to resume operations next week, following the suspension of trading due to the exploit. Q5: What can users do to protect themselves from similar exploits? A5: Users should conduct thorough research on platforms, understand the inherent risks of DeFi, diversify their investments, and only engage with platforms that have undergone rigorous security audits. Q6: What is the broader implication of this exploit for the crypto market? A6: This exploit underscores the ongoing need for enhanced security measures in decentralized finance and highlights the risks associated with new, high-risk assets like memecoins, potentially leading to increased scrutiny on new launchpads. If you found this article insightful, please consider sharing it with your network on social media. Help us spread awareness about critical security issues in the crypto space and contribute to a safer environment for everyone.
Imagine being taken from your family… and returning years later as a warrior for another people. In 1870, 11-year-old Herman Lehmann was working near his home in Loyal Valley, Texas, when Apache raiders attacked. His younger brother escaped after nine days in captivity. Herman did not. He was adopted by Apache chief Carnoviste, given new clothes, a new name, and a new life. They taught him to ride bareback, hunt with a bow, and fight with a rifle. Soon, he was raiding settlements and battling Texas Rangers, Comanches, and Mexicans — no longer as a captive, but as one of them. Years later, the Apaches were scattered, and Herman was taken in by the Comanches under Quanah Parker, their most famous chief. He lived as a Comanche warrior, speaking their language, wearing feathers, and joining in their hunts and battles. Eight years had passed since he’d last seen his family. In 1878, U.S. troops forced his return to white society. But the boy who had left in overalls came back in buckskin, carrying a rifle, and speaking only Apache and Comanche. His German parents barely recognized him — and he barely recognized the life he once knew. For years, Herman struggled to fit in. He hunted local livestock for food, mistrusted settlers, and resisted “civilized” ways. Only slowly did he relearn English, adapt to farming, and start telling his story. By the end of his life, Herman Lehmann had lived in two worlds — and never fully belonged to either. Would you call him a survivor… or someone stolen by history?
Bitcoin is the “Biggest Investment Scam in History”, Says Peter Schiff
Bitcoin briefly broke above $122,000 earlier this week, marking one of its strongest rallies of the year, but the excitement was short-lived. As of today, the leading cryptocurrency is trading near $118,900 after a swift retracement, leaving traders debating whether another push toward record highs is on the horizon. For many in the market, the recent jump was another sign that momentum remains firmly on Bitcoin’s side. For long-time critic Peter Schiff, however, it’s just another chapter in what he calls a dangerous bubble. Schiff dismissed the surge as nothing more than a wave of speculators piling into what he still considers the “largest investment scam in history.” While bullish analysts argue that a clean break above $125,000 could trigger a new all-time high, Schiff’s skepticism taps into a deeper concern — that Bitcoin’s rise has less to do with real-world adoption and more with the speculative fervor driving institutional inflows, ETF demand, and corporate balance sheet bets. Some market watchers warn that this cycle is fundamentally different from previous ones. With public companies holding large Bitcoin reserves and exchange-traded products attracting billions in inflows, the asset is more intertwined with traditional markets than ever. This interconnectedness could magnify risks if sentiment turns. A major sell-off in a “Bitcoin proxy” stock, for instance, could spark a chain reaction — falling share prices, reduced corporate buying, and an accelerated drop in BTC. For now, traders are watching whether support levels in the $115,000–$116,000 range hold firm. But as Schiff’s latest remarks remind the market, the bigger question may not be whether Bitcoin can climb higher, but what happens to the growing ecosystem of companies and funds built around it if the tide turns. #BinanceTurns8
Radiant Capital hacker sells 3,091 ETH for 13.26 million DAI
Radiant Capital hacker offloaded 3,091 Ethereum tokens worth $13.26 million in DAI stablecoins. The exploiter sold ETH at $4,291 per token before transferring DAI to another wallet. This latest movement follows the October 17, 2024, hack that drained $53 million from the cross-chain lending protocol. Hacker liquidates stolen ETH holdings for stablecoin conversion The Radiant Capital exploiter converted 3,091 ETH tokens into 13.26 million DAI stablecoins during recent on-chain activity. Onchain Lens tracked the transaction, showing the hacker received $4,291 per Ethereum during the conversion process. The exploiter immediately transferred the entire DAI amount to a different wallet address after completing the conversion. This wallet transfer suggests the hacker continues moving stolen funds to avoid detection and tracking efforts. The transaction is a portion of the total $53 million stolen during the October 17 attack, as previously reported by Cryptopolitan. The hacker appears to be liquidating different cryptocurrency holdings from the original theft. October 2024 attack timeline reveals planning phase The Radiant Capital hack took place in carefully orchestrated stages over a month of preparation. Bad smart contracts were deployed on October 2, 2024, on multiple blockchain networks like Arbitrum, Base, BSC, and Ethereum. The deployment was 14 days before the actual exploit on October 16. The final attack targeted Radiant’s 3-of-11 multisig security mechanism in what appeared to be typical emissions adjustments. The attack infrastructure had previously been set up weeks prior by hackers following initial access. The North Korean threat actors coordinated the attack using INLETDRIFT malware customized for macOS platforms. The malware provided attackers with backdoor privileges under which they performed man-in-the-middle attacks on transaction signing processes. Developers could see legitimate transaction data on their screens while malicious commands were running on hardware wallets. The attack witnessed $53 million stolen from the treasury and user balances of the cross-chain lending protocol. Multiple blockchain networks were hit simultaneously during the concurrent attack on Radiant’s security systems. The attack started on 11th September 2024 when one of their Radiant Capital developers received a spoofed Telegram message. The attacker impersonated a reputable former contractor requesting feedback regarding a Penpie Hack Analysis Report. The attacker had emailed a ZIP file with what appeared to be a valid PDF document to open. The file contained INLETDRIFT malware within, yet appeared normal as a PDF with correctly formatted content. The hosting site for the file appeared almost identical to the legitimate contractor’s site to make it appear legitimate. If opened, the file appeared to contain normal analysis data, secretly installing backdoor access. The developer unknowingly executed an .app file that established communication with command and control servers.
Raoul Pal, Real Vision CEO and former Goldman Sachs strategist, disclosed he's been long on XRP since June 2021 via a post on X. Pal's revelation underscores his confidence in XRP amid the evolving crypto market dynamics, potentially influencing investor sentiment and market activity. Raoul Pal, the CEO of Real Vision, clarified his position on XRP via a post on X. He revealed that he has been long on XRP since June 28, 2021, after previously criticizing it. Pal, a former Goldman Sachs strategist, known for macro views like the "Banana Zone," emphasized his long-term investment approach. His comments align XRP with other tokens he actively monitors for performance. Pal's statements sparked discussions within the crypto community, noting the psychology behind retail investments. His emphasis on low unit-price tokens like XRP and Dogecoin highlights investor tendencies. The financial implications of Pal’s remarks stress the speculative nature of certain tokens, frequently tied to retail investment behavior. This insight reflects trends in market dynamics and pricing. Monitoring Pal's comments offers insights into market influences on recognized currencies like XRP and Dogecoin. These discussions often coincide with shifts in retail behavior and market sentiment. Raoul Pal noted, "I described XRP, Cardano, and Dogecoin as the 'moron trade,' pointing to predictable retail clustering in low unit-price, high-recognition assets during cycles." Potential outcomes include a focus on regulatory stances toward popular assets noted for volatile investment patterns. Historical cycles and emerging trends continue to shape investor perceptions in these crypto markets.
Bitcoin is hovering above two major support levels — $118,163 and $116,934 — that traders are closely watching. These price points represent zones where buying pressure has historically been strong enough to halt further declines. Maintaining these levels could provide the stability needed for the market to continue its upward momentum. The Significance of $118,163 and $116,934 The first support at $118,163 is currently acting as Bitcoin’s primary defense line. If price stays above this level, it suggests bulls remain in control. The second support at $116,934 is a deeper cushion, potentially catching the price if the first support breaks. In both cases, these supports are not random — they are based on historical trading activity, order book data, and technical chart patterns that point to strong buyer interest. What This Means for Traders For short-term traders, these support zones are critical for setting stop-loss levels and planning entry points. Long-term investors may see this as an opportunity to add to positions if Bitcoin revisits these supports without breaking lower. A rebound from either level could trigger fresh bullish momentum, while a decisive break could open the door for a deeper correction.
Ripple Case Closure Could Mark Turning Point for SEC’s Crypto Approach
With Paul Atkins now at the helm, the agency’s tone toward digital assets is showing signs of a major shift. One of his first public signals came after the high-profile Ripple lawsuit officially wrapped up — a case that had long been a thorn in the side of both the industry and investors. Rather than dwelling on the legal battle, Atkins framed the outcome as a green light for regulatory progress. In a post on X, he praised Commissioner Hester Peirce’s take on the case, saying it’s time to channel energy into writing policy instead of fighting in court. For a community accustomed to years of aggressive enforcement under former Chair Gary Gensler, the message landed as a refreshing change. Atkins’ comments also hinted at where he wants to steer the SEC next: toward establishing clear rules for digital assets, supporting blockchain innovation, and protecting investors without stifling market growth. His stance is in step with broader political momentum, including President Trump’s recent executive moves touching on retirement and digital asset investments. Industry watchers believe such reforms won’t come overnight. Crafting a balanced framework will mean working closely with lawmakers, market participants, and other regulators — a process likely to stretch over several years. Still, Atkins’ SEC has already been more engaged with the crypto sector, hosting multiple roundtables in 2025 and planning more before the year ends. For many, the Ripple verdict marks more than the close of a legal saga. It could be the starting point for a more collaborative era between Washington and the crypto industry — one where the conversation shifts from courtroom battles to building the foundations of the digital economy’s future. #BinanceTurns8
In a significant development poised to reshape the landscape of logistics and autonomous technology, Lior Ron, the highly influential CEO of Uber Freight, has announced his departure to assume the role of Chief Operating Officer at Waabi, a pioneering self-driving startup. This strategic move signals a powerful acceleration in the race for commercializing driverless transportation, a sector that holds immense promise for efficiency gains and safety improvements, resonating deeply with the innovative spirit often found in the cryptocurrency and broader tech community. The transition of such a seasoned leader to a cutting-edge autonomous vehicle company like Waabi underscores the industry’s rapid maturation and its magnetic pull for top talent. Lior Ron’s Strategic Leap: A New Era for Waabi? The appointment of Lior Ron as Waabi’s COO is far more than just a personnel change; it’s a profound statement on the future trajectory of autonomous freight. Ron, an autonomous vehicle industry veteran, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at Uber Freight, where he successfully scaled the digital marketplace connecting shippers with carriers into a formidable enterprise with billions in revenue. His proven ability to transform nascent ideas into large-scale commercial successes is precisely what Waabi needs as it gears up for its ambitious launch of driverless trucks on public highways later this year. Ron’s history with Waabi’s founder and CEO, Raquel Urtasun, runs deep. Their professional paths intertwined previously at Uber, where Ron co-founded the self-driving truck company Otto (later acquired by Uber in 2016), and Urtasun served as chief scientist, spearheading the ride-hail firm’s self-driving research. This shared history and mutual respect suggest a powerful synergy at Waabi. Urtasun herself highlighted Ron’s unparalleled expertise: “He will lead the go-to-market strategy, expanding key partnerships, and really bringing Waabi from the phase that we’ve been in to commercialization at scale.” This endorsement speaks volumes about the impact Ron is expected to have on Waabi’s aggressive growth plans. His role will be pivotal in translating Waabi’s advanced technological capabilities into widespread commercial adoption, a critical step for any startup in this capital-intensive industry. While Ron transitions to Waabi, he will maintain a connection with his former company, serving as Uber Freight’s chairman. The leadership void at Uber Freight will be filled by Rebecca Tinucci, who previously spent six years building Tesla’s charging network. This ensures continuity and leverages Tinucci’s experience in scaling critical infrastructure, a valuable asset for Uber Freight’s ongoing evolution. Waabi’s AI-First Advantage: Revolutionizing Autonomous Vehicles At the core of Waabi’s strategy is its distinctive “AI-first” approach to scaling autonomy, a methodology that Raquel Urtasun champions as the key to doing “more with fewer resources and in less time than competitors.” This efficiency is a significant competitive advantage in the highly capital-intensive autonomous vehicle sector, which has seen several promising startups, such as TuSimple and Embark, falter. Waabi’s ability to achieve significant milestones with a comparatively lean funding of $287.7 million (the bulk from a $200 million Series B in 2024) stands in stark contrast to competitors like Aurora, which has raised nearly $3.46 billion. What exactly does Waabi’s AI-first approach entail? It primarily revolves around “Waabi World,” a closed-loop simulator that serves as the company’s virtual testing and training ground. This sophisticated simulator allows Waabi to: Virtually Test Software: Engineers can rigorously test their self-driving software in a myriad of simulated scenarios, from routine driving conditions to rare edge cases, without the inherent risks and costs of real-world testing.Teach AI in Real-Time: The simulator isn’t just for testing; it actively teaches the AI system, accelerating its learning curve and improving its decision-making capabilities.Overlay Virtual Environments: More recently, Waabi has innovated by taking its simulator to the test track, overlaying virtual environments onto real-world driving conditions. This allows them to simulate complex scenarios like accidents, construction zones, and adverse weather without actual risk, providing an invaluable bridge between virtual and physical testing. This innovative approach has enabled Waabi to rapidly reach “feature complete,” meaning they have all the necessary components to remove the human driver, now focusing on final performance improvement and validation. The company is confidently on track for its driverless launch by the end of the year, marking the true commencement of its commercialization phase for autonomous vehicles. The Road Ahead for Self-Driving Trucks: Commercialization and Impact The impending launch of Waabi’s driverless operations signals a critical juncture for the commercialization of self-driving trucks. The demand for this technology is palpable, as Lior Ron noted during his time at Uber Freight, regularly meeting with chief supply chain officers and major carriers who “could not wait” for autonomous solutions. This widespread industry eagerness is driven by several factors: Driver Shortages: The trucking industry faces a persistent shortage of qualified drivers, making autonomous solutions an attractive long-term answer to capacity challenges.Operational Efficiency: Driverless trucks have the potential to operate 24/7, with fewer mandated breaks, leading to significant improvements in delivery times and asset utilization.Cost Reduction: While initial investment is high, the long-term operational cost savings from reduced labor, fuel optimization (through AI-driven driving), and fewer accidents can be substantial.Enhanced Safety: AI-driven systems are designed to be consistently vigilant and adhere strictly to traffic laws, potentially reducing human error-related accidents. Waabi plans to launch its operations in Texas, which has rapidly emerged as the autonomous freight capital of the U.S. This state offers a favorable regulatory environment and extensive highway networks suitable for long-haul trucking. While specific routes and launch partners are yet to be disclosed, the startup is actively working with Volvo Autonomous Solutions to develop and deploy custom-built autonomous vehicles. This partnership with a major truck manufacturer underscores the industry’s collaborative effort to bring these technologies to market. Ron is particularly enthusiastic about the prospect of seamlessly integrating Waabi’s technology into customer operations. He highlighted a feature that would enable Waabi’s trucks to drive straight to customer depots, circumventing the need to construct specialized terminals for a hybrid setup. This “dock-to-dock” autonomy could dramatically simplify logistics for businesses, providing a truly commercial-ready solution that meets the immediate needs of carriers and shippers. This vision for end-to-end autonomous logistics is a significant leap forward, promising to unlock unprecedented efficiencies in the supply chain. Uber Freight’s Evolving Strategy in the Autonomous Landscape Even with Lior Ron‘s departure, Uber Freight remains steadfast in its commitment to integrating autonomous trucking technology into its digital marketplace. Ron himself confirmed that Uber’s partnership with Waabi remains unaffected by his transition, emphasizing the long-term strategic alignment between the two entities. Uber Freight’s model, which connects shippers with a vast network of carriers, is ideally positioned to become a central hub for autonomous freight. By forging partnerships with leading autonomous vehicle startups like Aurora Innovation and Waabi, Uber Freight aims to future-proof its platform and offer cutting-edge solutions to its clientele. The appointment of Rebecca Tinucci as the new head of Uber Freight signals a continuation of this strategic vision. Her background in building out Tesla’s extensive charging network demonstrates a strong understanding of large-scale infrastructure deployment and operational excellence, skills that will be crucial as Uber Freight navigates the complexities of integrating driverless trucks. Uber Freight’s role will likely evolve to facilitate the adoption of autonomous solutions, potentially offering services that manage the dispatch, routing, and optimization of both human-driven and autonomous fleets. This hybrid approach allows for a gradual, seamless transition as autonomous capabilities mature and scale. The digital marketplace created by Uber Freight is a powerful enabler for autonomous technology. It can provide the necessary volume and network effects to make driverless operations economically viable. By connecting autonomous fleet operators with shippers, Uber Freight can accelerate the adoption cycle, making it easier for businesses to access and utilize these advanced transportation methods. This symbiotic relationship ensures that as autonomous technology advances, the infrastructure for its widespread use is already in place, ready to scale. Lior Ron’s move to Waabi marks a transformative moment for the autonomous trucking industry. His proven leadership, combined with Waabi’s innovative AI-first approach and advanced simulator technology, positions the company as a formidable player in the race to commercialize driverless transportation. As self-driving trucks prepare for their imminent launch in Texas, the ripple effects will undoubtedly be felt across the logistics sector, promising a future of enhanced efficiency, safety, and operational capabilities. This strategic alignment of talent and technology is set to accelerate the autonomous revolution, bringing us closer to a future where driverless vehicles are a common sight on our highways, fundamentally reshaping how goods are moved across the globe.