Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Evening 1-14-25

Good Evening Dinar Recaps,

SEC FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST ELON MUSK FOR SECURITIES VIOLATION

Musk's lawyer claims the SEC's lawsuit is mere harassment with no substantial case.

▪️The SEC sued Elon Musk for failing to disclose his Twitter share purchases before acquiring the platform.

▪️Musk's lawyer claims the SEC's lawsuit is baseless and suggests no wrongdoing was committed.

The US SEC has initiated a lawsuit against Elon Musk in federal court, alleging he failed to timely disclose his purchase of more than 5% of Twitter (now X) shares before acquiring the social media platform, according to a Jan. 14 filing first shared by DB News.

The complaint, filed in federal court in Washington, DC, claims Musk’s delayed disclosure after accumulating more than 5% ownership allowed him to “underpay by at least $150 million for shares he purchased after his financial beneficial ownership report was due.”

Musk later acquired Twitter for $44 billion and renamed it X.

Alex Spiro, Musk’s lawyer, dismissed the lawsuit, stating it is “an admission” that the SEC cannot bring an “actual case,” because Musk “has done nothing wrong and everyone sees this sham for what it is.”

“As the SEC retreats and leaves office, the SEC’s multi-year campaign of harassment against Mr. Musk culminated in the filing of a single-count ticky tak complaint against Mr. Musk under Section 13(d) for an alleged administrative failure to file a single form – an offense that, even if proven, carries a nominal penalty,” Spiro said in a statement.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CryptoBeiefing

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UAE STEPS UP AS GLOBAL CRYPTO LEADER WHILE TRUMPS WATCH CLOSELY

Why does Eric Trump think UAE holds the answer to America’s crypto struggles?

▪️UAE’s crypto success showcases innovation-driven growth with clear regulations and tax incentives.

▪️Trump administration eyes blockchain and stablecoin integration to lead global digital finance competition.

As the United States braces for a potential cryptocurrency policy shift, with Donald Trump set to assume office on the 20th of January. Now, the spotlight has turned to global leaders in digital finance.

UAE’s crypto vision

Among them, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as a thriving hub for cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation.

Advocates suggest the UAE’s clear regulations and strategic investments offer a compelling blueprint for the incoming U.S. administration.

In fact, by embracing blockchain and establishing robust regulatory frameworks, the UAE has struck a leadership position in an industry where the U.S. has often faltered.

Eric Trump on UAE’s role in crypto

Speaking on the matter, Eric Trump during the Bitcoin [BTC] MENA conference in Abu Dhabi, underscored the UAE’s role as a model for crypto advancement.

He said,

“The UAE has shown how to do this right. By supporting crypto innovation, they’ve created jobs, attracted investment and strengthened their global standing. The U.S. can and should do the same.”

In fact, between July 2023 and June 2024, crypto transactions in the UAE soared to an impressive $34 billion, marking a 42% increase from the prior year, as per Chainalysis’ report.

UAE’s crypto success story

A key factor in this surge was the government’s decision to exempt cryptocurrency transactions from value-added tax. This exemption was applied retroactively to 2018.

This tax relief, designed to “supercharge” the sector, has reinforced the UAE’s position as a global leader in digital finance. It has attracted businesses and investors.

Additionally, there has been a significant focus on stablecoins due to their reliability in volatile cryptocurrency markets. Stablecoins are increasingly utilized for cross-border payments and everyday transactions.

Other developments

Additionally, in a notable development, Tether announced plans to introduce a Dirham-backed stablecoin in partnership with Abu Dhabi-based firms.

Remarking on the same, Eric Trump added,

“Stablecoins are a bridge between traditional and digital financial systems. They offer reliability and liquidity, making them a key tool for financial inclusion and global trade.”

Additionally, the UAE’s progressive integration of blockchain into public services and its balanced regulatory approach has further provided a compelling blueprint for various nations.

What should Trump take away from UAE’s playbook?

As the Trump administration focuses on digital finance, the U.S. faces a critical moment to redefine its role in the global crypto market.

With the sector’s market capitalization soaring to $3.3 trillion in 2024, the stakes have never been higher.

Trump’s decisive actions show a commitment to innovation while safeguarding investors. With fierce international competition, this isn’t just about reviving the crypto landscape—it’s a race to lead the future of digital finance.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  AMB Crypto

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CONGRESSMAN PROPOSES IRS ELIMINATION

On Jan. 9, 2025, congressman Earl Carter proposed a bill replacing the US tax code with a national consumption tax and abolishing the IRS. Earlier this month, the IRS was sued by Blockchain Association over the new reporting rule.

New tax system

The H.R. 25 bill, or The Fair Tax Act of 2025, was introduced by Rep. Earl “Buddy” Carter (R–GA). The bill challenges the existing U.S. tax code and the taxation policy status quo and aims to promote freedom, fairness, and economic opportunity. The Fair Tax Act calls to repeal the income, payroll, estate, and gift taxes. Instead, the act proposes enacting the sales tax.

According to the bill, the existing Federal income tax retards the economic growth and international competitiveness of the U.S., discourages small businesses and farms, and downgrades the standard of living of Americans, decreasing the savings and investment rates.

On top of that, the bill indicates the harm of the existing unnecessary administrative and compliance cost pressure on individual and corporate taxpayers. Privacy violations and lack of transparency in taxation are other problems associated with the Federal income tax. According to the Fair Tax Act, the Social Security, Medicare payroll taxes, and self-employment taxes hurdles employment rates.

The alternative proposed in the bill is a broad-based national sales tax on goods and services purchased for final consumption. The act proposes to tax all consumption of goods and services in the U.S. once, preventing double, multiple, and cascading taxation.

According to the bill, it will facilitate savings and investment, improve the standard of living of Americans, help businesses, and undo all other evils associated with the actual tax system. Also, the Fair Tax Act provides notes on how the government should foster the change in the policy.

IRS abolition

One of the most radical changes proposed in the Fair Tax Act is the Internal Revenue Service abolition. The move is meant to get rid of the bureaucratic burdens on individual and business taxpayers.

According to Carter, the tax system introduced in the legislation eliminates the need for the IRS. The taxes should be easy and transparent so that people will not need professional assistance to fill out their taxes.

The bill is supported by a number of Republican congressmen, including Barry Loudermilk, Eric Burlison, John Carter, Scott Perry, John Rutherford, Warren Davidson, Andy Biggs, Dale Strong, Rich McCormick, Andy Harris, and Andrew Clyde.

The latter noted that the act “provides a commonsense solution to eliminate the need for the weaponized IRS, simplify our tax code, and foster economic prosperity”.

Rep. Strong adds that the proposed taxation system will make illegal immigrants pay taxes fairly.

IRS vs the crypto community

The IRS was sued over the new reporting rules introduced by the service the day the rules were introduced, i.e., on Dec. 28, 2024. The complaint is signed by several organizations, including Blockchain Association, Texas Blockchain Council, and DeFi Education Fund.

The new reporting rules impose a threat to the well-being of the DeFi sector as it redefines the broker notion. According to the new rules, DeFi platforms will be considered brokers. They will have to provide the transaction info and proceeds to the IRS until 2027. 

The complaint clears that DeFi platforms are not brokers, and that’s what makes them unique and innovative. As peer-to-peer systems, they don’t depend on brokers or any other intermediaries, so the IRS’ new rules should not apply to them, but they do.

The plaintiffs find the rules unconstitutional and harmful to American development and leadership in the crypto industry. They note that if the rules get into effect, this may impact many leading industry brands to find better jurisdictions instead of working in America.

Considering this, the IRS abolition may be seen as a possibility to end the service’s attacks on the DeFi ecosystems. However, it is not clear yet if the Fair Tax Act of 2025 will be adopted. The history of the act began back in 1999. Will 2025 be a breakthrough year? We’ll see.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Afternoon 1-14-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

BRICS NEWS:  ANALYSTS PREDICT THE FUTURE OF BRICS CURRENCY

The BRICS alliance is working on the formation of a new currency to challenge the US dollar’s global prospects. The bloc aims to dethrone the US dollar from the world’s reserve currency and usher into a new financial era.

The bold idea is pushed most by members China, Russia, and Iran, as their economies are hampered by the US. The White House pressed sanctions on Russia and Iran and both countries are seeking an alternative currency.

On the other hand, China seeks global domination through BRICS and the launch of a new currency will boost its prospects.

On the contrary, India is against the idea as their leaders have openly supported the US dollar. India’s Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar repeatedly said that they need the US dollar and will not sideline it for trade. The statement highlights the stark differences and ideas among the member nations of the nine-country alliance.

Decoding the Future of BRICS Currency, Analysts Share Their Opinions

Two financial analysts decoded the future of the BRICS currency and shared their opinions about its prospects in the global markets. However, both strategists believe that the contrasting ideas among BRICS members will make the currency a disaster in the forex markets.

“In my mind, there are issues between those countries that make up the BRICS community,” says Michael Diaz, Global Managing Partner of Diaz, Reus & Targ, based in Miami. 

“I don’t believe that they will settle on a unified currency because they all have national security concerns. They could move to digital Bitcoin, but because of the individualized interests of those countries, I don’t see it as a risk to the US dollar,” he said.

Another analyst, Monteiro de Carvalho, a partner at Monteiro & Weiss Trade said that he does not believe BRICS currency can challenge the US dollar. 

“The very cohesion of BRICS ultimately favors a more fragmented international trade profile into competing blocs. Within BRICS, China acts as a globalizing agent, with its initiatives primarily aimed at opening markets for its products and companies. In the global context, this stance contrasts with countries that have adopted more protectionist measures,” he said.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

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BLACKROCK LAUNCHES CANADIAN BITCOIN ETF WITH DUAL-CURRENCY TRADING OPTIONS

BlackRock has launched its first Canadian Bitcoin ETF, offering dual-currency trading options amid market fluctuations and outflows in the U.S. Bitcoin ETF sector.

▪️BlackRock has launched its iShares Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) on Cboe Canada, offering both CAD and USD trading options and providing Canadian investors easier access to Bitcoin exposure

▪️The fund invests primarily in the U.S. iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF and allows investors to hold Bitcoin exposure in tax-advantaged accounts through traditional brokerage platforms

▪️Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent plans to divest his BlackRock Bitcoin ETF holdings before Trump’s inauguration to comply with Federal ethics guidelines

▪️The U.S. iShares Bitcoin ETF has accumulated $52.7 billion in assets under management, though it recently experienced a record-high outflow of $333 million on January 2, 2025

▪️Bitcoin spot ETFs saw collective outflows of $313.6 million on Monday, with Bitcoin trading around $95,000 at press time

Helen Hayes, Head of iShares Canada at BlackRock, explained the practical benefits of the new fund. “The iShares Fund provides Canadian investors with a convenient and cost-effective way to gain exposure to Bitcoin and helps remove the operational and custody complexities of holding Bitcoin directly,” she said.

@ Newshounds News™

Read More: Blockonomi

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JPMORGAN PROJECTS $3–$8 BILLION INFLOWS FOR POTENTIAL XRP ETF

▪️JPMorgan predicts that spot-based XRP ETF could see inflows of between $3 billion and $8 billion.

▪️Anticipation for XRP ETF approval is rising as multiple applications await the SEC’s verdicts.

▪️Ripple’s increasing usage and payment role make XRP a strong candidate for an ETF product.

JPMorgan, a leading global financial institution, has estimated that a spot-based XRP ETF may see flows of $3 billion and $8 billion. The financial giant based this approximation on the performance of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs that started in the market last year.

Spot ETFs have gained much popularity in the crypto market and represent about 8% of Bitcoin’s total market capitalization, which is now $1.81 trillion. Nonetheless, Ethereum ETFs have comparatively lower penetration at 3%, but the trend is still likely to experience an increase in future inflows.

According to JPMorgan, an XRP ETF is expected to have a similar market impact as Bitcoin ETFs. Similar levels of success are also expected from Solana-based ETFs. This will also stress the growing interest in diversified cryptocurrency ETFs among institutional and retail investors.

Industry players compete for approval

Increasing adoption and use of XRP in payment solutions add more weight to the crypto’s suitability for an ETF. Currently, there are already some applications for the XRP spot ETF being filed by some industry participants including Bitwise and WisdomTree. The competition has been further intensified especially after the emergence of positive results in Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs.

As previously reported by Cryptopolitan, Ripple President Monica Long stated an XRP ETF may be launched right behind Bitcoin and Ethereum products. Her remarks are in line with the market sentiment that the prospect of an XRP spot ETF being approved has risen considerably.

Nate Geraci, a well-known expert in the ETF market, also noted that an XRP spot ETF could be approved within the year. This would be a great boost to Ripple and would also provide a lot of credence to the XRP token as a key digital currency in the market.

While XRP has been garnering much attention, BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, has ruled out plans to apply for more altcoin ETFs at this time. The company continues to concentrate on its Bitcoin ETF, which has made it a leading player in the cryptocurrency investment market.

Ripple’s executives have also been making headlines. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, the Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty, and the U.S president-elect, Donald Trump, held a meeting that set speculations on possible friendly policies towards XRP. Even without any details about the meeting, the crypto community has considered this a positive sign.

The further expansion of the Ripple ecosystem has also added more wind to XRP’s sails. The RLUSD, a stablecoin issued on the XRP Ledger, is used to enhance the options of settlements on the XRP Ledger. The adoption of the XRP Ledger is expected to grow due to RLUSD improving cross-border transaction efficiency.

XRP price update

At the time of writing, XRP is trading at $2.47, a decrease of 3.28% in 24 hours.

@ Newshounds News™

Read more: Cryptopolitan

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Tuesday Morning 1-14-25

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CRYPTO ADVISORY COUNCIL LED BY 24 CEOS TO COLLABORATE WITH SEC, CFTC, AND TREASURY FOR REGULATORY CLARITY

▪️Crypto council will collaborate with key regulators, including the SEC, CFTC, and Treasury, to enhance regulatory clarity and promote a pro-crypto environment.

▪️The crypto industry will host the ‘Inaugural Crypto Ball’ on January 17 in Washington, DC, organized by BTC Inc and Stand With Crypto.

As per the latest Bloomberg report, President-elect Donald Trump will be appointing a total of 24 CEOs and founders to his crypto advisory council. Trump’s crypto council will provide guidance on digital asset policy and collaborate with Congress to draft cryptocurrency legislation.

Additionally, it also plans to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve, thereby fulfilling the promise of Trump’s election campaign.

 The Crypto Council also plans to work with top government regulators such as US SEC, US CFTC, and Treasury to bring regulatory clarity and promote a pro-crypto environment, per the CNF report.

The Bloomberg report shows that many potential appointees have existing ties to Trump and have met with him in recent months. On the other hand, Trump and key advisors, including the newly appointed crypto czar David Sacks, will be reviewing candidates for the council.

Crypto Executives Meet Trump Before Oath-Taking

Following Donald Trump’s election victory in November 2024, top leaders from the crypto industry have visited his residence at Mar-a-Lago in order to build a good rapport with the President-elect. Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek recently met with Donald Trump to discuss crypto-friendly policies and potential roles within the upcoming administration.

Meanwhile, MicroStrategy CEO Michael Saylor was seen in discussions with Eric Trump, focusing on Bitcoin’s potential role in the U.S. economy. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has also reportedly held meetings with Trump in recent weeks.

Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire was among the recent ones to meet Donald Trump and also announced a significant donation to the Trump inaugural committee. On Thursday, Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire revealed that the company donated 1 million USDC to Trump’s inaugural committee in an effort to establish goodwill as the new administration forms its advisory council, reported CNF.

Crypto Czar David Sacks Gears for Inaugural Crypto Ball

Last month, in December 2024, Donald Trump appointed Bo Hines to lead the newly established crypto council. Hines will be reporting to David Sacks, with the duo focused on offering a conducive environment for the crypto industry.

Bo will work with David to foster innovation and growth in the digital assets space while ensuring industry leaders have the resources they need to succeed,

The crypto industry is gearing up for a significant event, the ‘Inaugural Crypto Ball,’ set to take place on January 17 in Washington, DC, to celebrate and support the incoming administration. 

Organized by David Bailey’s BTC Inc., advocacy group Stand With Crypto, and other crypto organizations, the black-tie event will be held at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium.

Tickets are priced at $2,500, covering cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and valet service. Additionally, reports suggest that David Bailey is under consideration for a potential position on the administration’s advisory council.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News Flash

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ITALY’S LARGEST BANKING GROUP INVESTS DIRECTLY IN CRYPTOS FOR FIRST TIME

“As of Monday, Intesa Sanpaolo owns 11 Bitcoins.”

Banca Intesa Sanpaolo, Italy’s largest bank by assets, purchased 11 Bitcoins on Monday, worth €1 million ($1.02 million).

According to a Wired Italia report, this marks the first time in Italy, a credit institution concluded a direct crypto transaction.

Some employees of the largest Italian bank first flagged the crypto purchase and sale on the imageboard website 4Chan.

“As of today (Monday), Intesa Sanpaolo owns 11 Bitcoins. Thank you all for the teamwork”, said Niccolò Bardoscia, head of digital assets trading & investments at Intesa Sanpaolo in a mail.

However, Bardoscia did not reveal further information on Intesa Sanpaolo’s motivations for choosing BTC or its future crypto strategies. It is unclear whether the move signals the bank’s intent to expand its crypto services.

Last November, Intesa Sanpaolo expanded the remit of its digital assets desk to cover spot trading for crypto. The biggest lender in Italy had previously only traded crypto options, futures, and exchange-traded funds. However, the spot trading isn’t yet up and running.

Milan-based Intesa Sanpaolo has worked with Ripple Custody (formerly Metaco), to facilitate tokenised asset custody.

Intesa’s move mirrors a growing trend among traditional financial institutions exploring cryptos.

Italy’s Crypto Tax Revisions

The bank’s Bitcoin investment came when the country overhauled its crypto taxation laws, particularly focusing on Bitcoin (BTC) capital gains.

In December 2024, Italy’s Senate finalised the tax rates for crypto capital gains, confirming a 26% tax for 2025. Further, the parliament approved a government proposal to increase the withholding tax on Bitcoin profits to 33% in 2026.

In July 2024, Intesa became the sole institutional investor in Italian development bank Cassa Depositi e Prestiti’s digital bond issuance. The move marked a significant step in digital asset adoption in Italy.

Besides, the implementation of the European MiCA Regulation marks a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for crypto service providers across the EU.

The European Union set a Dec. 30 deadline for its member states to implement MiCA, although not all countries have managed to.

In Italy, the MiCA Decree, the Legislative Decree of September 5, 2024, assigns critical responsibilities to the Commissione Nazionale per le Società e la Borsa (Consob) and the Bank of Italy. It designs them as the primary national authorities for overseeing compliance with MiCA’s provisions.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CryptoNews

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CARDANO FOUNDATION UNVEILS ‘VENTURE HUB’ PILOT PROJECT TO FORTIFY BLOCKCHAIN INNOVATION

The Cardano Foundation, an autonomous not-for-profit organization backing the Cardano blockchain, has recently unveiled a pilot project Venture Hub. The new pilot project aims to expedite projects developing on the Cardano blockchain. The company revealed this development on its official X account.

Cardano Foundation Starts Pilot Program ‘Venture Hub’ to Increase Chosen Ventures’ Visibility

The Cardano Foundation mentioned that it leverages the new pilot project Venture Hub to enhance its methodology to back ecosystem endeavors. For this purpose, it offers modified assistance to exclusive and beneficial projects. 

It leverages its comprehensive experience backing projects via more than five hundred Slack and Telegram channels. Subsequently, the platform pursues to expand selected ventures’ visibility and offer valued feedback to advance its programs.

Venture Hub will reportedly include Web 3.0 Ventures, Web 3.0 Innovators, and Web 2.0 Businesses. These 3 categories take into account existing entities utilizing blockchain to increase client services and established blockchain firms endeavoring to grow or migrate to Cardano. In addition to this, the latest ventures introducing scalable solutions on the blockchain of Cardano are also invited. 

The Cardano Foundation will let the selected projects access an exceptional combination of business, visibility, and technical support. This will lead to the projects’ long-term success.

Venture Hub to Deliver Technical Support and Strategic Business Advice to Boost Project Development

Hence, in the case of visibility boost, the program will deliver a wider exposure via an organized Demo Day, marketing, and PR endeavors. Additionally, the projects will also get strategic business advice to attain sustainable growth.

Moreover, the in-house technical professionals will provide personalized guidance to the selected projects. Venture Hub will potentially cater to the respective projects at diverse development points. They range between early-stage ventures and fully established businesses dealing with blockchain solutions.

According to the Cardano Foundation, the participants will benefit from sophisticated technical strategies and boosted business development with ecosystem collaborators. Apart from that, they will also enjoy an enhanced visibility across the Cardano ecosystem.

Furthermore, the platform will also deliver investment readiness via curated opportunities such as VC engagements and Project Catalyst workshops.

The applications are invited between the 13th and 31st of January. Following that, the platform will announce the successful candidates in February while the 12-week program is scheduled to start on the 17th of March.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Blockchain Reporter

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Evening 1-13-25

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FILIPINO BANKS PLAN TO LAUNCH MULTI ISSUER STABLECOIN PHPX ON HEDERA DLT

Later this year several Filipino banks are planning to launch a multi bank peso stablecoin, PHPX, which will initially operate on the Hedera DLT network. The banks include the UnionBank of the Philippines, Rizal Commercial Banking, Cantilan Bank and the Rural Bank of Guinobatan. 

Singapore startup Just Finance is the initiator, but the banks will have a significant role in the governance. Given a key goal is cross border payments, the plans include more than just a stablecoin. There’s a need to exchange stablecoins in different currencies.

UnionBank, or more specifically its fintech spin off UBX, has been involved in blockchain for years including managing a quasi stablecoin network, albeit in a closed loop system.

In 2018 it set up a token-based automated clearing house (ACH) to enable payments for rural and community banks that were not members of the national retail payment system (NRPS) to funnel them via UnionBank.

That system uses a permissioned version of Ethereum and the more-or-less invisible backend token is PHX, not to be confused with PHPX the planned new stablecoin.

While the ACH has served its purpose, it’s time to take the next step. “We need to create something that is publicly exchangeable, so that we can support use cases outside of our own closed loop ecosystem,” said John Januszczak, UBX CEO, during an interview with Ledger Insights. He also wants to support stablecoins beyond that created by UBX.

Hence, when David Inderias and Mikko Perez from Just Finance approached UBX with the concept for PHPX, Mr Januszczak was open to it.

While it’s not the only use case, cross border payments are top of the list, particularly for remittances.

Filipino stablecoin remittances

Inbound remittances from people working abroad are a critical source of funds in the Philippines. According to the World Bank, the country is the fourth largest recipient of remittances which totaled $40 billion in 2024, representing around 10% of the country’s GDP.

Some of the stablecoin goals are basic. “The speed of payments has not kept up with the speed of commerce,” said Mr Januszczak. “As the operator of a payments network, it’s not about the technology, it’s about that fundamental problem.”

He noted that the people doing the work abroad have limited control over how their hard earned cash is spent. They often send the money to someone in the Philippines who looks after the bills.

“We want Filipinos that are earning money in the US (or elsewhere) to be able to pay their kids’ school tuition directly from the United States (and) for that payment to be affected in real time,” said Mr Januszczak. 

“We want to open up the opportunity for people to contribute to insurance policies and wealth products from overseas. So not just vanilla, pedestrian remittances, but remittances that give back that control.”

For the banks involved, the stablecoins will often be abstracted in the backend, so the customer simply chooses to send $500 rather than being aware of the stablecoin details. The $500 is exchanged for PHPX or another stablecoin in the background. From there it can be deposited into a bank account, a G Cash wallet or for cash pickup at an over the counter location. Hence, banks will provide seamless on and off-ramping.

Ultimately, consumers could have direct access to PHPX, but that would be subject to regulator approval.

Stablecoins and FX

To enable cross border payments, part of the plan is to create a multi currency stablecoin exchange. Given cross border payments will involve swaps of foreign currency stablecoins in USD, SGD or JPY with PHPX, that requires liquidity providers who can earn a yield. It also will have to be regulatory compliant. 

At launch it’s likely the banks or those implementing use cases will take on that role. But in a decentralized environment, that could open up over time, involving qualified investors as liquidity providers in the Philippines.

A safe PHPX stablecoin design

Turning to the stablecoin, Mr Inderias from Just Finance emphasized quality and compliance.

With a multi issuer token, the big question is what happens if a bank goes bust? Most of the stablecoin reserves will be held in segregated bank trust accounts which will hold government bonds, with a small cash balance for short term settlement. The trust accounts are ring-fenced rather than part of the general liability of the bank. Hence, if a bank fails, the stablecoin is bankrupt remote (provided the money hasn’t disappeared because of fraud). Given that Just Finance doesn’t hold the cash, the stablecoin should also be safe if it ran into trouble.

As a bank stablecoin, another challenge is compliance with Basel Committee crypto-asset rules. If stablecoins are classed with other cryptocurrencies (Group 2) that could get expensive for banks to hold them. In the latest Basel iteration, to qualify as a Group 1b (low risk) stablecoin the DLT network has to be permissioned, which is the reason for choosing the Hedera DLT as the initial network.

Another requirement to satisfy the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is for any coins the system interacts with to comply with the EU’s MiCAR regulations or regional equivalents.

Meanwhile, a key advantage of stablecoins over bank payments, is they don’t require interbank settlement. In the Philippines, the main National Retail Payment System (NRPS) limits payments to around $1,000 to manage risks. That’s because while the banks credit recipients almost immediately, the interbank settlement is not real time.

By contrast, the existing closed looped clearing house operated by UBX has been using blockchain for years, minting and burning tokens which are backed by reserves. Hence, it has already seen the benefits of stablecoin-style payments, where clearing and settlement don’t involve separate steps.

Getting to launch

The central bank is going to have the last say about when the solution goes live, with the earliest launch date between May and July this year.

Mr Inderias emphasized that the goal of PHPX isn’t purely for remittances. He also envisages larger cross border payments for trade and the potential domestic use of the stablecoin at point of sale (POS). But before that can even be considered, the first step is getting bank applications live.

“If and when we go to retail, we’ll do that in a measured way under the purview of the regulator,” he said.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Ledger Insights

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US BANKS CAN HOLD BITCOIN AND CRYPTO UNDER INCOMING TRUMP EXECUTIVE ORDER: REPORT

President-elect Trump will issue an executive order effectively allowing banks and financial institutions to hold Bitcoin (BTC) and crypto assets on behalf of their clients, according to a new report.

The incoming order will reverse a regulatory guideline that has shaped how financial institutions account for and custody digital assets, reports the Washington Post

“…Trump is expected to issue executive orders on the first day of his presidency that may address issues including “de-banking” and the repeal of a controversial crypto accounting policy requiring banks holding digital assets to count them as liabilities on the bank’s own balance sheet, according to a person involved with the conversations.”

The expected executive order is designed to reverse SAB 121, an SEC guideline that requires certain financial entities to list even the crypto assets they hold on behalf of customers as liabilities.

Crypto proponents say the guideline blocks financial institutions’ ability to enter the digital asset arena.

A bill aiming to eliminate SAB 121 recently passed both the House and the Senate, but President Biden vetoed the bill.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  DailyHodl

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COINBASE SCORES ANOTHER WIN AGAINST 'ARBITRARY AND CAPRICIOUS' SEC ORDER

A panel of Third Circuit federal judges ruled the SEC must explain its lack of crypto rulemaking—but stopped short of ordering the agency to create such regulations.

A panel of federal appeals court judges in Philadelphia dealt another blow to the SEC’s crypto regime on Monday, emerging as the latest prominent court to question how the federal agency has navigated its regulation of digital assets.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit ruled today in favor of Coinbase, which sued the SEC last year over the agency’s refusal to explicitly lay out its crypto policy. Instead of putting forth crypto-specific rules, the SEC has instead sporadically sued crypto firms over the last six-odd years in a pattern that has been disparagingly dubbed “regulation by enforcement.”

Today a three-judge panel, comprised of two Democrats and one Republican, ruled that the SEC’s dismissive response to Coinbase’s request for crypto-specific rulemaking was unacceptable.

“Because we believe the SEC’s order was conclusory and insufficiently reasoned, and thus arbitrary and capricious, we grant Coinbase’s petition in part and remand to the SEC for a more complete explanation,” today’s order reads.

The judges added that they declined, however, to force the SEC to create crypto-specific rules, as Coinbase had requested.

According to Judge Thomas Ambro, a Clinton-era Democrat who wrote Monday’s opinion, previous case law established that an agency like the SEC could only be forced to create rules against its will if an extreme delay in creating those rules “endangered human lives”—a requirement clearly not met by crypto-related regulations.

So the SEC doesn’t have to issue new crypto rules now, but it must explain to Coinbase in much greater detail why it has, thus far, refused to do so.

“Rather than force the agency to make a rule, we order it to explain its decision not to,” Judge Stephanos Bibas, a Republican appointed to the court by Donald Trump, wrote Monday in a concurring opinion. “Indeed, a rule may not prove necessary to solve the problems here; the agency could just state its position on crypto assets unequivocally.”

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Decrypt

~~~~~~~~~

CARDANO & RIPPLE TO PARTNER? ADA EYES RLUSD INTEGRATION

A cooperation that would see two of the industry’s most prominent networks team up, both Cardano (ADA) and Ripple are reportedly discussing a partnership that would include the latter’s recently launched Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin. Indeed, the discussions were confirmed in a recent post to X (Foermly Twitter) by Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson.

The asset has had a rather slow start to the year despite immense promise. However, that is widely expected to turn around. Moreover, with both ADA and XRP projected to make headway in the coming months, a partnership could ensure their prices skyrocket together.

Charles Hoskinson Confirms Talk to Bring Cardano and Ripple Together

2025 may be set to be a big year for Cardano and Ripple, as both companies look to build off of a momentous final two months to last year. Moreover, the two sides are reportedly engaged in talks, according to the former’s founder. The discussion centers around the promising Ripple stablecoin debut that would bring about an RLUSD integration.

Charles Hoskinson went as far as to confirm that discussion was taking place. However, he did not elaborate on what exactly was discussed between both sides. Yet, if it comes to fruition, it would be a game-changer for ADA, the native token on the Cardano network.

The cryptocurrency has certainly struggled since the start of the year. Over the last seven days, ADA has fallen more than 16%, according to CoinMarketCap. Moreover, the asset’s 13% drop in the last 30 days has it trading under the $1 mark. However, the token is not expected to remain this year, as it is projected to have a monumental year ahead.

According to cryptocurrency price prediction platform CoinCodex, Cardano will retake the $1 mark in January and then some. Indeed, analysts project the token to end January with a high price of $1.8, providing a potential ROI of more than 101%.

That isn’t all, as the asset is expected to build off of that success. Specifically, the platform projects ADA to reach the $2 mark in February, reaching heights of $2.50, with a 174% potential jump, by the end of the year’s second month.

With $3.9 yearly highs projected, Ripple and RLUSD stablecoin integration would help the network reach these marks. Moreover, they could help them exceed them, rewriting the potential it had entering the year.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Afternoon 1-13-25

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RIPPLE XRP AND BANK OF AMERICA: BIG CLAIMS, FEWER ANSWERS

▪️Ripple XRP integration at Bank of America sparks debate, with claims remaining unverified.

▪️Bank of America files 83 patents tied to Ripple blockchain, fueling XRP adoption speculation.

▪️XRP price rises 3.39% amid rumors of BoA’s blockchain use, with $2.89 as key resistance level.

Recent claims about Bank of America (BoA) using Ripple’s XRP for internal transactions have sparked heated debate within the financial and cryptocurrency sectors. While the bank’s potential use of XRP could signal a major shift in digital payments, these assertions remain unconfirmed, marking caution necessary.

Unverified Claims and Historical Context

David Stryzewski, CEO of Sound Planning Group, made headlines during a FOX Business interview on January 6, 2025, by stating that BoA has integrated XRP for all its internal transactions. He also revealed that BoA has filed 83 patents related to Ripple’s blockchain technology, demonstrating a considerable investment in the infrastructure that supports digital payments.

However, despite this bold claim, Bank of America has not issued an official confirmation. Historical records show that BoA has been exploring blockchain solutions for years. For example, in 2017, the bank filed a patent for a real-time settlement system that referenced a “ripple” distributed ledger without explicitly naming XRP. This action suggests an ongoing interest in decentralized technology but raises questions about its current adoption practices.

Technical Analysis and Market Sentiment

Market reactions reflect the news, with XRP trading at $2.41, a 3.39% daily increase. Analysts have identified a critical resistance level at $2.89 and support near $2.00, creating key zones for traders to monitor. Bullish sentiment has surged due to the potential for broader institutional adoption, but skeptics urge caution because of the lack of official statements.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

If Stryzewski’s claims are accurate, this development could set a precedent for cryptocurrency adoption in traditional banking systems. RippleNet, where BoA is a governance member, shows the growing collaboration between financial institutions and blockchain solutions. Still, the absence of verifiable evidence highlights the importance of relying on official updates for a clear understanding.

Meanwhile, the XRP community remains optimistic, driven by Ripple’s recent achievements, such as the launch of the RLUSD stablecoin. This milestone, along with XRP’s increasing adoption, underscores the asset’s growing role in global finance.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Coin Edition

~~~~~~~~~

XRP LEDGER UPGRADE: IMPORTANT CHANGES YOU MUST KNOW

The XRP Ledger (XRPL) is currently in the process of a major technology update, with several amendments already announced for voting.

The XRP development team revealed that about 80% of the XRPL servers have been successfully updated, and older version servers are expected to be automatically disconnected once this update is complete. This update will bring a number of important changes that have the potential to impact various aspects of XRP and XRPL usage as a whole.

Update to XRP Ledger v2.3.0

XRP Ledger v2.3.0 brings several important amendments aimed at improving network efficiency and functionality. Some of the key changes included in this update include:

▪️XLS-70: Credentials
This amendment allows you to provide credentials to the ledger and use them to automatically approve incoming payments.

▪️XLS-33: Multi-Purpose Token
This change presents a new, more optimal version of the token, especially for institutions operating in the Decentralized Finance (DeFi) sector. This aims to support the broader adoption of fungible tokens in DeFi.

▪️XLS-37: AMM Clawback
This amendment allows the use of tokens with a clawback feature in Automated Market Maker (AMM) systems, providing more flexibility in the management of revocable tokens.

▪️XLS-52: NFTokenMintOffer
With this amendment, you can make sales offers for Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT), opening up more opportunities in the ever-growing NFT market.

▪️Bug Fixes and Efficiency Improvements
In addition to the major amendments, this update also includes a number of technical improvements, such as fixing a bug that resulted in missing links in the NFT directory and improvements to the AMM transaction process that can improve overall system performance.

XRPL Server Update Progress

As part of this update, the development team also announced that around 80% of the XRPL servers have been successfully updated. This marks a major step in ensuring the XRPL network remains relevant and efficient.

Servers using versions 2.2.x and older are expected to automatically disconnect once the update is complete, forcing most users to upgrade to stay connected to the network.

Implications of the Update to the XRP Network

In addition to technical updates, recent data shows a significant increase in activity on the XRP network. According to data from CryptoQuant released in November 2024, XRP's Network Value to Transactions (NVT) ratio saw a spike, indicating increased activity on the network.

 Further analysis from CryptoQuant also showed significant changes in transaction types on XRPL, especially in “OfferCreate” transactions, reflecting increased trading activity on the network.

In January 2024, payment transactions accounted for 88% of all transactions on the ledger, while “OfferCreate” transactions accounted for 12%. However, in November 2024, both types of transactions will experience equal adoption with a contribution of 50% each. This shows that the adoption of new features, including decentralized trading (DEX), is starting to gain popularity among XRPL users.

XRP Outlook Post Update

In December 2024, crypto analyst Paul Barron revealed that the XRPL network was on the verge of a major breakthrough. According to him, the update that is being carried out has the potential to trigger a significant spike in the price of XRP.

Even though the price of XRP is currently hovering around $2.3 after experiencing a 4.4% decline in the last seven days, optimism for the future of the XRP network remains high, especially with increased activity and ongoing updates.

Thus, the XRPL v2.3.0 update not only brings significant technical changes, but also opens up new opportunities for adoption and further development in the XRP ecosystem, both for individuals, institutions, and developers in the DeFi and NFT sectors.

As the server upgrade nears completion, the XRP network is expected to become stronger and more competitive in the ever-evolving blockchain world.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  BitTime

~~~~~~~~~

LEDGER INSIGHTS - 13 JAN – TOKENIZATION, DIGITAL ASSETS NEWS

TOKENIZATION AND DIGITAL ASSETS: POLICY & LEGAL

FDIC Vice Chair acknowledges crypto debanking, outlines policy plan. He’s a candidate to become chair.
Ledger Insights  

United States Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) interpretive rule proposes to include stablecoins, crypto in Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA) as digital payments. This would give consumer protections such as the right to dispute errors or fraudulent transactions. Comments should be submitted by the end of March.  
CFPB-EFTA Document

OECD explores impediments to tokenization adoption.
Ledger Insights

New Springer legal book including digital assets
Governance and Control of Data and Digital Economy in the European Single Market: Legal Framework for New Digital Assets, Identities and Data Spaces
OPEN ACCESS DIGITAL LINK 

Indonesian commodities regulator transfers digital asset responsibilities:
the Commodity Futures Trading Supervisory Agency (Bappebti) transferred its digital assets duties including crypto and derivatives to the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and Bank Indonesia (BI).

OJK takes on most of the responsibilities with the central bank supervising derivatives where the underlying assets relate to money markets or foreign exchange.  KK Advocates 

Kenya’s Treasury publishes a draft set of digital asset rules and requests feedback.
Draft Document 

European Central Bank’s Bindseil and others explore tokenization terminology.  Tokenization Terminology 

TOKENIZATION & DIGITAL ASSETS: PROJECTS, PARTNERSHIPS

NUS, Northern Trust and UOB partner to tokenize green bond data. Part of Project Guardian. Ledger Insights 

Ownera, which provides a blockchain interoperability router FinP2P, partners with Layer 1 blockchain Kadena.  LINK 

Germany’s Bundesbank advertises for (more) DLT technical roles. Good news for wholesale DLT settlement solutions?  LINK 

Blockchain Security Standards Council issues first two standards. Its members include Anchorage Digital, Coinbase, Fireblocks, OpenZeppelin, Ribbit Capital. One of the standards is on asset integration – such as tokens.  LINK

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Ledger Insights 

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Monday Morning 1-13-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

SEN. TED CRUZ: FIGHTING REGULATORY OVERREACH, CHAMPIONING BITCOIN

In an interview with Cointelegraph, US Senator Ted Cruz discusses Bitcoin’s role in driving small business growth, its potential as a hedge against inflation and why Texas is becoming a top crypto hub.

In an exclusive interview with Cointelegraph, US Senator Ted Cruz shared his vision for Bitcoin, the broader crypto industry and the future of his home state of Texas.

As a self-proclaimed Bitcoin miner, Cruz emphasized the potential of BTC to empower small businesses, drive innovation, and serve as a hedge against inflation.

Despite his optimism for the future of BTC and crypto mining, Cruz warned against hasty government regulations, stressing the need for Congress to better understand before overreaching with regulatory actions.

“Very few Members of Congress understand cryptocurrency, so I am urging my colleagues to proceed slowly and carefully with any regulations governing cryptocurrency,” he said.

Bitcoin’s impact on small businesses

Cruz said he is “bullish on Bitcoin,” praising its capacity to provide privacy, autonomy and independence from government control.

“Most congressional Democrats are deeply skeptical of Bitcoin,” he said. “They don’t like that it creates individual freedom, privacy, autonomy and independence from the government.”

With the incoming administration of US President-elect Donald Trump, Cruz predicted that “Republicans will unleash small businesses and cryptocurrency like never before.”

“I’m proud to lead the fight to defend cryptocurrency from overreaching government regulation. I introduced legislation to prohibit the development of a central bank digital currency and to clarify that the Federal Reserve has no authority to do so unilaterally.”

Texas as an oasis for Bitcoin

Cruz described Texas as “an oasis for Bitcoin” due to its abundant, low-cost energy and business-friendly environment. He said the state’s “frontier mentality” and low taxes have made it a magnet for Bitcoin mining firms and crypto enthusiasts.

“Cryptocurrency mining requires dependable, low-cost energy, and if Texas is known for anything, it is abundant low-cost energy,” Cruz said. “I am thrilled to see so many jobs coming to Texas, and we need to make sure that trend continues and accelerates,” he added.

Recent developments, such as Hive Digital relocating its headquarters to Texas and Marathon Digital acquiring a wind farm in the state, underscore Cruz’s sentiment.

Cruz told Cointelegraph that, to his knowledge, he is the only member of the Senate who is a BTC miner and has “three miners hashing in West Texas right now.”

“I have a weekly buy order to take advantage of dollar-cost averaging,” he said. “I’ve been investing for several years, over which time Bitcoin’s value has roughly tripled.”

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CoinTelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

INCOMING TREASURY TO SELL BITCOIN ETF HOLDINGS

According to a recent report by Bloomberg, hedge fund manager Scott Bessent, who was recently nominated to be the new Treasury secretary, will divest his Bitcoin ETF holdings. The billionaire American investor owns no more than $500,000 worth of shares of BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT). Overall, Bessent has listed more than $500 billion worth of assets.

@ Newshounds News™

Read more:  U Today

~~~~~~~~~

RIPPLE CTO REVEALS COMPANY'S MEDIA STRATEGY ON XRP

Ripple CTO David Schwartz breaks silence on crypto company's approach to misinformation regarding XRP

Ripple's CTO David Schwartz recently shared some thoughts on the company's media strategy during its three-year legal battle with the Securities and Exchange Commission. 

The case ended with Ripple getting a partial victory, after they argued that XRP, the cryptocurrency associated with Ripple, should not be classed as a security. The court concluded that XRP is not a security, but the crypto company was fined for selling coins to institutional clients. 

This clarified the asset's status, which has big implications for both the San Francisco-based company and the wider crypto market.

Schwartz talked about the challenges Ripple faced in dealing with false information about XRP during the lawsuit. He admitted that the company couldn't do much to directly challenge the false stories about the cryptocurrency because of legal and strategic limits.

Instead, they relied on their community, also known as the "XRP Army," to spread the right message. But this meant that misinformation and speculation spread, which was not ideal.

Schwartz said that Ripple tried not to amplify unverified claims or people spreading misinformation on purpose, but he admitted that this approach might have had the opposite effect. He said that if they dealt with inaccuracies, they might accidentally give them more credibility or visibility, which would make it harder for Ripple to respond to the media.

Schwartz also talked about how Ripple tries to tell the difference between helpful contributions and baseless claims in the XRP community. While the company recognized the importance of fostering a positive narrative, it maintained caution in engaging with content or individuals that might harm its reputation or mislead the public. #XRP #XRP News #Ripple News

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  U Today

~~~~~~~~~

MASTERCARD INTRODUCES CRYPTO CREDENTIAL FOR SEAMLESS P2P TRANSACTIONS IN UAE, KAZAKHSTAN

▪️Mastercard has launched Crypto Credential in the UAE and Kazakhstan to simplify crypto transactions.

▪️The solution ensures secure transactions by verifying both the sender’s and recipient’s wallet compatibility.

Mastercard has launched its Crypto Credential solution, which will make it easier for people in the UAE and Kazakhstan to use cryptocurrencies. This launch enables the users to send and receive digital assets through easily memorable names instead of complicated blockchain addresses, making it easier to incorporate crypto.

Crypto Credential is one of Mastercard’s efforts to strengthen the security of digital asset transactions. Through cooperation with regulated exchanges like CoinMENA in the UAE, Fuze in Dubai, and ATAIX Eurasia in Kazakhstan, the solution is designed to enable the verification of transactions and ensure that both transacting parties have met certain verification standards. It also checks that the recipient’s wallet can accept the transferred asset.

It ensures that crypto users have a certain degree of confidence in the service, which checks the transaction details, including Travel Rule data and metadata sharing. Mastercard believes simplicity is key in crypto transactions to help boost trust among consumers and businesses.

“We are excited to see Mastercard embracing blockchain technology,” said Talal Tabba, CEO of CoinMENA. “Innovations like Crypto Credential are key to making digital assets more user-friendly, especially for those transitioning from traditional finance.”

How Mastercard Crypto Credential Works

The adoption of Crypto Credentials begins with the user’s validation in accordance with the Mastercard guidelines. After successful validation, users are given a unique alias that can be utilized on any supported exchange for transferring and receiving cryptocurrencies.

When a transfer is initiated, the system verifies if the recipient’s alias is active and if the wallet of the recipient supports the given digital asset. If not, the sender is informed, and the transaction is stopped to avoid the loss of the funds. This mechanism ensures security and ease of use since users are shielded from mistakes and deceit.

Initially, the pilot phase will cover only peer-to-peer transactions. Nevertheless, Mastercard plans to use Crypto Credentials in several services in the future. Some of the possible applications are Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), ticketing, and other new payment applications based on the market’s needs and legal frameworks.

A Broader Expansion Across Regions

Mastercard Crypto Credential is not only available in the UAE and Kazakhstan. It is part of a greater implementation strategy for the company’s commercialization plans in markets across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific. This expansion enables the user to transfer digital assets not only within these regions but also across blockchains and types of assets.

The new initiative has garnered support from industry leaders. Arutyun Poghosyan, CEO of ATAIX Eurasia, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are incredibly excited to implement Mastercard’s Crypto Credential technology. This partnership strengthens our position in the crypto space.”

In addition to the Crypto Credential, Mastercard has also collaborated with JPMorgan to create innovative B2B cross-border payment flows. CNF has earlier covered that the partnership links Mastercard’s MTN and JPMorgan’s Kinexys Digital Payments and is beneficial for businesses, according to CNF. 

This partnership leverages a single API to streamline foreign transactions, and minimize the time that is usually lost in crossing borders and other barriers that have hitherto slowed down global trade.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News Flash

~~~~~~~~~

XRP BULLS IN ACTION? KOREAN EXCHANGE SEES STUNNING OUTFLOWS

Popular cryptocurrency XRP eyes mysterious $60 million whale activity on Korea's biggest exchange

A big XRP transfer from Upbit, South Korea's biggest crypto exchange, is causing some buzz about what it might mean for the popular cryptocurrency. Whale Alert tracked the withdrawal of 24 million XRP, worth about $60.63 million, from Upbit's wallet "rDxJNb" to an address that had not been recognized before, "r9n1JL."

 It is common for such a movement to be made between the big players in the cryptocurrency game, like Ripple or major exchanges like Binance, so it's possible this wallet could even belong to Upbit itself. But this is just guesswork, and we are still not sure who owns the address.

While it is tempting to think this is a sign that whales are building up their holdings, it's best not to jump to any conclusions just yet. Have to do some more digging and keep a close eye on things to see what is really going on.

@ Newshounds News™

Read more:  U Today

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Afternoon 1-12-25

Good Afternoon Dinar Recaps,

KENYA PREPARES TO LEGALIZE CRYPTOCURRENCIES: REPORT

Kenya's Treasury Secretary unveils plans to legalize cryptocurrencies, introducing regulations to harness blockchain potential while tackling money laundering and fraud risks.

Kenya is set to introduce legislation to legalize cryptocurrencies, marking a policy shift, according to a local report quoting Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi.

Speaking on Friday, Mbadi outlined the government’s plans to create a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, an industry that has operated in the shadows despite an official ban.

“Kenya’s financial sector is a beacon of innovation and growth in Africa,” Mbadi stated. “The emergence and growth of Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers have given rise to innovations in the local and international financial system with dynamic opportunities and challenges.”

While recognizing the risks associated with cryptocurrencies, such as money laundering, terrorism financing, and fraud, Mbadi emphasized that a legal framework would allow Kenya see the benefits of the crypto market while mitigating its dangers.

“The Government of Kenya is committed to creating the necessary legal and regulatory framework in order to leverage opportunities presented by VAs and VASPs while managing the resultant risks,” he added.

IMF Urges Kenya to Establish Clear Crypto Regulations

The proposed policy seeks to establish a fair and competitive crypto market and improve financial literacy across the country.

This initiative aligns with recent calls from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which urged Kenya to develop regulations to address consumer protection and financial crime concerns related to cryptocurrencies.

In a technical assistance report released on January 8, the IMF outlined shortcomings in Kenya’s current regulatory approach to crypto assets.

Outdated frameworks have struggled to address the rise in crypto-related scams and illicit activities, leaving consumers vulnerable to financial risks.

With Kenya joining the growing list of African nations embracing cryptocurrency, this regulatory shift could position the country as a regional hub for blockchain innovation while addressing systemic risks.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CryptoNews

~~~~~~~~~

SINGAPORE LABELS POLYMARKET ILLEGAL GAMBLING, RESTRICTS SITE ACCESS

▪️Singapore blocks Polymarket, citing unlicensed gambling.

▪️Polymarket faces a ban in France and CFTC subpoena in the US.

Singapore has officially blocked Polymarket, a crypto-based betting platform, citing its unlicensed status in the country.

Warning Notice

Visitors to the site are greeted with a warning from the Gambling Regulatory Authority, labelling it an illegal gambling operation.

The notice warns that gambling on unlicensed platforms may result in fines, jail time, or both.

The block falls under the Gambling Control Act 2022, which mandates that all gambling operators targeting Singaporean residents obtain proper licensing.

Singapore currently restricts online gambling to state-approved operators like Singapore Pools, the country’s sole licensed provider.

Polymarket, known for hosting high-stakes prediction markets on events like the US presidential election, is also encountering resistance in Europe.

In France, the country’s gambling regulator, ANJ, blocked access to the platform in November.

According to The Big Whale, a French crypto news outlet, the ANJ considers Polymarket a form of illegal betting.

A source close to the regulator claimed, “This is not legal in France,” as officials examine its compliance with local gambling laws.

Meanwhile, in the United States, the platform is under fire from the CFTC, which has proposed stricter rules on prediction markets.

On Thursday it was revealed that Coinbase notified customers it received a subpoena from the CFTC seeking account information tied to Polymarket.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  DL News

~~~~~~~~~

'LIVE FREE OR DIE': NEW HAMPSHIRE THE LATEST STATE TO CONSIDER BITCOIN RESERVE BILL

New Hampshire Rep. Keith Ammon proposed a bill to enable a Bitcoin treasury reserve, which he framed as a matter of state sovereignty.

New Hampshire Rep. Keith Ammon (R) proposed a bill Friday that would enable the state’s Treasury to invest a portion of public funds into digital assets and precious metals.

Not only would the move insulate the Granite State from the threat of runaway inflation, but it would also dovetail with some of New Hampshire’s cultural values, Ammon told Decrypt.

“The ethos in New Hampshire is ‘Live Free or Die’—leave me alone, and don’t burden me with too many regulations,” he said. “We’re tied to the U.S. dollar, whether we like it or not, but this would allow us to have the state invest a small portion into this uncorrelated, new asset class.”

 Newshounds News™

Read more:  Decrypt

~~~~~~~~~

RIPPLE AND MOONPAY PLEDGE $50,000 IN RLUSD TO LAFD FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA WILDFIRE RELIEF

▪️Wildfires in California have reportedly destroyed about 12,000 structures leading to over 11 fatalities, with containment still a challenge.

▪️Ripple and MoonPay donated $50,000 worth of RLUSD to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, supporting first responders amid the crisis.

@ Newshounds News™

Read more:  Crypto News Flash

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Sunday Morning 1-12-25

Good Morning Dinar Recaps,

BRICS PAY: IS 2025 NOW OR NEVER FOR ALLIANCE PAYMENT SYSTEM?
Despite the project first being announced as part of the 2024 summit, BRICS Pay has failed to make a significant impact as 2025 arrives. With the economic alliance continuing its de-dollarization efforts and US President-elect Donald Trump issuing a start 100% tariff warning, it appears like it may be now or never for the payment system.

For the past two years, the bloc has sought alternative payment methods to help defend against Western economic dominance and imposed sanctions. 

Although BRICS has made some progress, it certainly has not been able to challenge the US dollar in any significant way. Now, all eyes are on the importance of 2025 for one of its most important economic plans.

BRICS Pay Faces Critical Year Amid Rising Geopolitical Turmoil

For the last two years, the BRICS bloc has mobilized in a way that has sent ripples through the globe. First formed in 2001, the bloc expanded for the first time in 2023. Now, two years later, it has already doubled its member count while welcoming a secondary tier of partner nations.

However, although its presence has grown, so too have its challengers. With the incoming presidential administration not content to allow the bloc to grow unchecked, the BRICS Pay platform and the group’s de-dollarization efforts look like they’re now or never entering 2025.

US President-elect Donald Trump has recently issued 100% tariff threats on the BRICS alliance specifically. This has greatly affected the bloc and its growth prospects.

 Although the previous administration allowed its efforts to go unchecked, nations seeking to join the group must now grapple with concerns regarding Western retaliation.

Moreover, for all that BRICS has attempted over the last year, the US dollar remains unchallenged. More importantly, it has emerged stronger compared to a plethora of alliance currencies. The greenback has appreciated more than 5% since the start of the year, with the Chinese yuan and Indian rupee falling significantly since the start of the year.

Ultimately, the BRICS Pay platform was the alliance’s “step towards a multipolar global economy,” Ramesh Vaidyanathan of the IBA Asia Pacific Regional Forum said. “It could also increase competition between the Western and Eastern economic models, with long-term geopolitical implications,” he warned.

Altogether, BRICS Pay has thus far failed to live up to expectations. With Donald Trump eager to protect the greenback, its road to de-dollarization looks more treacherous than ever. It is now or never for the alliance payment system, indeed.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

RIPPLE’S $100,000,000 RLUSD MILESTONE SIGNALS STRONG 2025 OUTLOOK FOR XRP

▪️Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin sees $100M+ daily volume, aiming to dominate DeFi and global payments in 2025.

▪️Ripple's liquidity-driven RLUSD strategy focuses on DeFi, tokenization, and partnerships for rapid adoption.

Ripple has launched its new stablecoin, RLUSD, which is already seeing impressive trading volumes of over $100 million daily. Many are curious about how this move will impact XRP, and here’s what Austin, a former Ripple employee and co-founder of Omni Network, shared about Ripple’s strategy moving forward.

“Liquidity is a flywheel. The more trading activity an asset has, the more incentivized other exchanges will be to integrate that asset. This idea is foundational to every initiative driven by Ripple. How are they applying this concept to their $RLUSD strategy?”, he wrote on social media.

Ripple’s RLUSD Strategy Revealed

Austin King, who previously worked closely with Ripple’s co-founder David Schwartz shared details on Ripple’s approach to RLUSD.

According to him, Ripple’s strategy is focused on driving adoption of RLUSD using a liquidity-driven model. The more trading activity RLUSD generates, the more exchanges and traditional finance companies will be incentivized to integrate it.

Key Pillars of Ripple’s RLUSD Strategy

Liquidity Hub and Tokenization: Ripple aims to make RLUSD the go-to asset for real-world asset tokenization and liquidity. This will be critical for onboarding traditional finance companies, positioning RLUSD as a central hub in the financial ecosystem.

DeFi Dominance: Ripple plans to integrate RLUSD into decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, including lending platforms, decentralized exchanges, and derivatives. The recent partnership with Chainlink to bring RLUSD to Ethereum-based DeFi protocols marks a significant step in this direction.

Leveraging Existing Partnerships: Ripple has a strong network of banks and fintechs through RippleNet. This existing infrastructure will be used to drive RLUSD adoption, making it easier for Ripple to introduce the stablecoin to its partners.

Austin believes that 2025 is set to be a huge growth year for Ripple and RLUSD, with stablecoins playing a central role in global payments.

FAQs

What is Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin?
Ripple’s RLUSD is a stablecoin focused on liquidity-driven adoption, aiming to integrate into DeFi and traditional finance for tokenization.

Will RLUSD use XRP?
RLUSD may leverage XRP’s liquidity and Ripple’s infrastructure, enhancing cross-border payments and driving adoption through RippleNet.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CoinPedia

~~~~~~~~~

NORTH DAKOTA EYES CRYPTO FOR TREASURY: COULD BITCOIN BE INCLUDED?

▪️North Dakota joins New Hampshire in exploring crypto investments for state reserves, aiming to diversify assets and combat inflation.

▪️Bitcoin’s market dominance positions it as a prime candidate, while tech-neutral policies reduce political resistance in crypto legislation.

@ Newshounds News™

Read more:  Crypto News Flash 

~~~~~~~~~

OKLAHOMA SENATOR PUSHES BITCOIN FREEDOM ACT FOR BTC PAYMENTS

▪️Oklahoma passed the Bitcoin Freedom Act, which permits state employees, businesses, and residents to make or receive payments in Bitcoin.

▪️The bill also provides for the voluntary acceptance of Bitcoin payments and some exemptions for digital asset companies from licensing.

@ Newshounds News™

Read more:  Crypto News Flash

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Afternoon 1-11-25

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RIPPLE'S RLUSD EXPANSION PLANS UNVEILED FOR MAJOR EXCHANGES, INCLUDING COINBASE LISTING STRATEGY

Ripple’s newly launched U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin, RLUSD, is gaining momentum following its debut on Ethereum and the XRP Ledger last month.

Approved by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), RLUSD has already been listed on Bitstamp, and Ripple is now in discussions with major exchanges like Coinbase to broaden its availability.  

Jack McDonald, Ripple’s Senior Vice President of Stablecoins, outlined the technical and strategic challenges of exchange listings during an interview. 

“It’s not just a handshake agreement,” he explained, emphasizing the need for exchanges to adapt to different blockchain protocols. Ripple’s CTO, David Schwartz, hinted at eventual expansion to additional networks, further increasing the stablecoin’s reach.  

Challenges in securing listings with major exchanges

Despite Ripple’s approval from NYDFS providing a regulatory edge, McDonald acknowledged the complexities of securing support from major exchanges like Coinbase and Binance, which often maintain exclusivity with certain stablecoins.

For instance, Coinbase’s close partnership with Circle’s USDC presents challenges, though McDonald believes Coinbase might gradually diversify its stablecoin offerings.  

Volume and demand are also critical factors. Exchanges assess the cost-benefit of listing new assets, considering both technical integration and the ongoing support required. “They want to make sure that there is demand for it,” McDonald noted.  

Looking ahead, McDonald predicts that institutional-backed issuers with strong compliance frameworks will dominate the stablecoin market. Smaller players may struggle to meet regulatory costs, leading to a consolidation of market share among established names. Liquidity, regulatory approval, and institutional relationships are likely to play pivotal roles in determining market leaders.  

Ripple’s focus on robust compliance and institutional support positions RLUSD as a key player in this evolving landscape, with further listings expected to drive adoption in 2025.  

In addition, Ripple collaborates with Chainlink to improve RLUSD adoption

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Traders Union

~~~~~~~~~

XRP LEGAL BATTLE BEGINS ON WEDNESDAY

The SEC, the US Securities and Exchange Commission, has until January 15, 2025, to submit its initial brief on the Ripple case. The court had previously decided that XRP was not a security in and of itself when the appeal was filed.

The financial watchdog contesting some of the ruling’s findings, including how Ripple’s XRP sales on cryptocurrency exchanges and the private XRP sales of Chris Larsen and Brad Garlinghouse, two of the company’s executives, should be categorized. The upcoming brief will most likely revolve around those arguments.

SEC chair Gensler, who has spearheaded the agency’s vigorous targeting of the cryptocurrency sector, will resign on January 20. Donald Trump, the president-elect, will take office on the 20th.

Gary Gensler will be replaced as SEC Chair by Paul Atkins, suggesting possible adjustments to the agency’s stance on crypto regulation. The case may likely be resolved given Gensler’s departure.

Media reports predict that the SEC may cut back on or drop some crypto lawsuits. The SEC may instead prefer settlements, also known as “consent decrees,” which provide industry clarity and permit negotiated resolutions.

These settlements may help the industry meet regulatory requirements without completely abandoning cases by encouraging the SEC to create more precise guidelines and regulations.

Brad Garlinghouse, the CEO of Ripple, voiced optimism, pointing out that Atkins could “bring common sense back to the agency.” “XRP may solidify its non-security status and possibly start a bullish price trend if the SEC withdraws its appeal as a result of this leadership change.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  FX Leaders

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Saturday Morning 1-11-25

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NEW HOUSE FINANCIAL SERVICES LEADERSHIP TARGETS DIGITAL ASSET REGULATION

The House Financial Services Committee has chosen leadership with an eye toward digital asset regulation.

Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.) announced the new appointments Thursday (Jan. 9), promising to “right-size the regulatory system for particularly community banks,” and “create a regulatory framework for digital assets that will protect investors and consumers.”

In addition, Hill said the committee would “ensure agencies are focused on their core statutory directed missions” and not political agendas.

The committee’s vice chairman — a position held by Hill in the last term — will be Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.). In addition, Hill said, Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) will serve as vice chair for communications, and Rep. Mike Haridopolos (R-Fla.) will be committee whip, the latter to “ensure our Republicans are working together toward our common goal.”

In addition, the committee has announced chairs for its various subcommittees, including: Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Maine), Capital Markets; Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.), Financial Institutions; Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wis.), Digital Assets, Financial Technology and Artificial Intelligence.

Rep. Warren Davidson (R-Ohio) was named chair of the Subcommittee on National Security, Illicit Finance, and International Financial Institutions, with Rep. Dan Meuser (R-PA) overseeing the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. Lastly, the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance will be chaired by Nebraska Republican Rep. Mike Flood.

As PYMNTS wrote earlier this week in a look at the upcoming legislative session, there have been a number of attempts at laws to create frameworks around digital asset markets.

For example, the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act was passed by the House but not the Senate. The act would, among other things, establish standards for digital assets and consumer protections, and segregation of funds.

And then there’s the question of cryptocurrency. Speaking with PYMNTS, Mike Katz, a partner in Manatt, Phelps and Phillips Financial Services Group, said that “despite the razor-thin Republican majorities, there is a growing bipartisan consensus in Congress around the need for thoughtful, innovation-focused crypto and AI legislation.

“It will be interesting to see if any digital asset bills are part of the tax-and-border-focused reconciliation package already being discussed in Congress. I’d expect a strong stablecoin bill to move quickly given existing bipartisan support,” he added.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Pymnts

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS NEWS:  BRICS: US DOLLAR REMAINS IN HIGH DEMAND, DE-DOLLARIZATION FAILING

The BRICS alliance which kick-started the de-dollarization agenda is now under the mercy of the US dollar in 2025. The US dollar remained in the green for nine consecutive days in the DXY index and tramping other local currencies. 

The Indian rupee has fallen to a lifetime low of 85.93 and is on the brink of dipping to the 86 level. The Chinese yuan and the Japanese yen are facing similar lows and are unable to take on the rising US dollar.

The US dollar singlehandedly outperformed all local currencies in 2025 taking the top spot in the currency markets. The USD has now reached a high of 109.30 in the DXY index and could breach its all-time high of 109.53. The currencies of BRICS members are the hardest hit despite the alliance pushing the de-dollarization agenda to bring the US dollar down.

BRICS: Here’s Why the US Dollar is Rising and De-Dollarization is Failing

The first boost to the dollar came in early January after US weekly Initial Jobless Claims declined to 201,000 from the previous 211,000. The US Department of Labor (DOL) published the report indicating that the jobs market could ease out leading to employability. 

In addition, Fed Governor Christopher Waller made an announcement saying that inflation could continue to fall in 2025. These two events early this month boosted the US dollar’s prospects and dented the BRICS’ de-dollarization initiative.

The BRICS bloc now remains under pressure as local currencies are facing an uphill task to sustain themselves. The raging US dollar is showing no signs of stopping and is taking the de-dollarization agenda by the horns. 

If the momentum persists, BRICS can only dream of de-dollarization and never make it a reality. The US dollar has sustained many whiplashes over the last seven decades and has faced all challenges head-on.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Watcher Guru

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Friday Afternoon 1-10-25

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XRP LAWSUIT: RIPPLE CTO REVEALS LEGAL STRUGGLES AND THE SILENCE HE WAS FORCED INTO

The ongoing legal battle between Ripple Labs and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has gained widespread attention, carrying profound implications for the entire cryptocurrency industry. The lawsuit, which began in December 2020, accuses Ripple, along with its CEO Brad Garlinghouse and co-founder Chris Larsen, of raising over $1.3 billion through an unregistered securities offering by selling XRP.

In the midst of this high-stakes legal fight, Ripple’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), David Schwartz, recently shared his thoughts on the situation. He opened up about the challenges posed by the lawsuit and the broader regulatory scrutiny faced by the crypto industry. 

He explained how the legal constraints surrounding the case prevented Ripple from addressing certain truths about the situation. “One of the things that most annoyed me about the lawsuit and the war on crypto was that there were things that were indisputably true that I could not say,” Schwartz said.

While Schwartz acknowledged the frustration of not being able to speak freely, he found some solace in seeing others express these truths on Ripple’s behalf. He added, “It definitely lifted my spirits to see someone else say them when I could not.”

Schwartz said that, despite his willingness to be more open about the matter, he believes discussing the past in detail would not be productive. He explained that, due to legal and strategic constraints, Ripple has been unable to directly combat misinformation, relying on the support of the XRP community, often referred to as the “XRP Army,” to help fill that gap.

Ripple Vs SEC Latest Update:

Judge Phyllis J. Hamilton has allowed Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse to keep some court documents sealed. This includes documents about judgments and expert testimony. Both Ripple and the SEC can keep these details private as the case moves to the next stage, following a rule to protect sensitive information.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Coinpedia

~~~~~~~~~

U.S. SENATE TO LAUNCH CRYPTOCURRENCY SUBCOMMITTEE, LUMMIS TAPPED AS CHAIR

In a significant move for the crypto industry, the U.S. Senate Banking Committee is set to create its first-ever subcommittee focused exclusively on cryptocurrency.

The U.S. Senate Banking Committee, under the leadership of Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), is poised to establish a dedicated cryptocurrency subcommittee to advance discussions on digital asset regulation and industry oversight, according to a report by Fox News.

The formation of this subcommittee, modeled after a similar House panel created in 2023, marks a pivotal step toward a more structured approach to crypto legislation at the federal level.

A Senate aide told Fox News that Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis, a staunch advocate for cryptocurrency, is the tentative choice to chair this groundbreaking panel. 

‘The selection of Lummis, pending a committee vote next Thursday, signals a shift in the Senate's approach to digital assets. Alongside her nomination, the subcommittee members, representing both Republican and Democratic sides, will also be finalized through the same voting process.

Lummis, known for her vocal support of Bitcoin, has described the asset as "freedom money" and has advocated for its potential to hedge against inflation and enhance financial independence.

She previously proposed a plan for the US to acquire a significant stake in the total Bitcoin supply through a 1-million-unit purchase program over a set period. "Establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve to bolster the U.S. dollar with a digital hard asset will secure our nation's standing as the global financial leader for decades to come," Lummis said at the time.

Her leadership could steer the subcommittee toward developing a more balanced regulatory framework, fostering innovation while ensuring market integrity.

Senator Tim Scott first hinted at the possibility of forming a crypto-focused subcommittee during the Wyoming Blockchain Symposium last August. 

“Wouldn't it be kind of cool if we had a subcommittee on the Banking Committee... so that we bring more light to the conversation, more hearings on the industry, so that we get things done faster?” Scott remarked, highlighting his vision for streamlined legislative action.

This move comes as Scott replaces outgoing Chair Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), who maintained a more critical stance on cryptocurrency. Brown frequently called for stricter oversight, citing concerns about crypto's role in enabling illicit activities and circumventing sanctions. The change in leadership, coupled with the creation of a dedicated subcommittee, could lead to a friendlier regulatory environment for digital assets under the new administration.

Notably, the subcommittee will include other crypto-friendly lawmakers such as Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and newly elected Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), both vocal supporters of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency. Moreno, who defeated Brown in the November elections, has vowed to champion crypto-friendly policies in the Senate.

@ Newshounds News™
Source:  BlockHead

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Friday Morning 1-10-25

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SEC’S GENSLER SAYS MOST CRYPTO PROJECTS ARE DOOMED AS RIPPLE APPEAL DEADLINE NEARS

▪️Gary Gensler warns crypto market still rife with fraud, says many projects won’t survive in his final interview as SEC Chair.

▪️Outgoing SEC Chair Gary Gensler highlights scams in crypto, calls for stronger regulation as he prepares to step down.

***************************************

Gary Gensler, the outgoing chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, shared his thoughts on regulating the fast-growing crypto market. While he acknowledged that crypto is still a small part of the overall financial markets, he said that it’s full of bad actors and scams.

Under his leadership, the SEC has filed about 100 enforcement actions in the past four years, compared to his predecessor Jay Clayton’s 80. Gensler believes that the crypto market is still struggling with fraud, with many projects acting like risky investments that may not survive.

In an interview with Bloomberg, Gensler said,

In this field, it’s rife with bad actors.” He then broke down the crypto market into two parts, saying, “The public knows a lot about Bitcoin, which, depending on its market value, is two-thirds to 80% of the market value of crypto.

Gensler pointed out that there are “10,000 to 15,000 projects raising money from the public.” Many of these projects, he believes, are simply speculative investments, “hoping for a better future.” 

He explained, “I’ve been around finance for over four decades, and everything in the markets trades on a mixture of fundamentals and sentiment.” However, he added, “At any given time, I’ve never seen a field that’s so much wrapped up in sentiment and not so much about fundamentals.”

Gensler Says Crypto Projects ‘Won’t Survive’

He also warned, “Many of these 10,000 to 15,000 projects will not survive. They’re like venture capital investments. They’re not going to survive.” Gensler pointed to the existence of “small pump and dump schemes” that have caused problems in the industry. Reflecting on past events, he said, “We’ve lived through a few years where they became notorious, but they’re in jail now.”

Despite the growing number of enforcement actions, Gensler thinks that the crypto market is still not complying with the rules. He sees his role as ensuring that the market works without fraud, manipulation, and misinformation. Gensler is set to resign on January 20 and Paul Atkins will serve as the SEC Chair next.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Coinpedia

~~~~~~~~~

******************************

PRO-CRYPTO CFTC BOSS, SUBCOMMITTEE RUMORED AS TRUMP INAUGURATION NEARS

New reports suggest the US Senate Banking Committee is looking to create its first crypto subcommittee, while Trump is reportedly eyeing a pro-crypto CFTC commissioner to take the agency’s helm.

The US Senate Banking Committee is reportedly set to create its first-ever crypto subcommittee, while a pro-crypto commissioner is now a top pick to replace the outgoing chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, according to two reports.

The two reports — seen as positive developments for the crypto industry — come less than two weeks before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, set for Jan. 20.

According to a report from FOX Business on Jan. 9, following a Punchbowl News report on Jan. 8, the US Senate Banking Committee’s new chair, Republican Senator Tim Scott, has made the creation of the subcommittee a top priority and plans to replicate the House Financial Services Committee’s model, which introduced a crypto subcommittee in 2023.

Two Senate aides told FOX that Scott has put forward Senator Cynthia Lummis to chair the subcommittee, with a vote on her approval to happen in the next few days. Lummis, a longtime crypto supporter, has recently echoed Trump’s push for a strategic Bitcoin.

Trump has made sweeping promises to rein in crypto regulation by enforcement and turn the US into a “crypto capital.” The Senate Banking Committee is the key overseer of financial agencies such as the Securities and Exchange Commission and of federal monetary policy.

A memo seen by FOX said Senators Bernie Moreno, Dave McCormick, Thom Tillis and Bill Hagerty were being considered for the new crypto subcommittee. They are all “strongly supportive” of crypto, according to the digital assets lobby group Stand With Crypto.

It is not known which Democrats might be joining the subcommittee, but Senator Elizabeth Warren, a vocal crypto skeptic, is the party’s most senior member of the Senate Banking Committee

In 2024, the House passed a key crypto bill known as FIT21 that was created by the House Financial Services crypto subcommittee. It would hand greater regulatory control to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The bill is currently awaiting action in the Senate.

*************************************

Mersinger tipped to lead CFTC

Meanwhile, Unchained reported on Jan. 9 that five people close to the matter said CFTC Commissioner Summer Mersinger has emerged as a leading choice to chair the agency, as current CFTC chair Rostin Behnam said he’d be stepping down when Trump takes office.

Mersinger has overtaken ex-CFTC commissioner and a16z policy head Brian Quintenz for the job, as she’s seen as someone who could pass a Senate confirmation. She was a staffer for Senate Majority Leader John Thune for 12 years.

As she’s already a commissioner, Trump could appoint her to a temporary chair role while the Senate deliberates on her confirmation.

Mersinger has made crypto-supportive comments, telling a Blockchain conference in November that she was “uncomfortable” that the CFTC was “kind of setting some sort of policy through our enforcement cases.”

Trump is set to take office on Jan. 20, officially giving Republicans full control of the government after the party picked up a majority of Senate seats and kept its House majority in November’s elections. The new Congress kicked off on Jan. 3.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CoinTelegraph

~~~~~~~~~

IOTA INVITES DEVELOPERS TO APPLY FOR $10M IN SEASON 2 GRANTS

▪️IOTA’s Season 2 grant program aims to empower builders aligned with IOTA’s vision of sustainability and decentralization.

▪️Prospective applicants can submit proposals via the IOTA Grants website, with projects evaluated based on scalability, usefulness, safety, alignment with funding goals, and long-term viability

The IOTA Ecosystem DLT Foundation unveiled its Season 2 grant program. The IOTA Grants Season 2 has committed to offering $10 million in funding and fostering innovation within the Web3 ecosystem. The initiative looking to empower Web3 builders and innovators focused on projects closely aligned with its vision of sustainability and thriving within a decentralized and free ecosystem.

IOTA Grants Season 2 Focus Areas & Funding Goals

It caters to three core areas, namely open-source development, education, and events, for supporting projects. These categories advance IOTA’s ecosystem by covering key aspects of Web3 growth.

For context, open-Source Development promotes the development of tools, utilities, and public goods that increase user experience.

****************************************

 Moreover, the foundation has targeted education to reduce the complexity of multi-layered technology to reach everyday users. Meanwhile, events that promote community-driven activities like hackathons and workshops are prioritized.

“We’re here to support you on this journey,” the IOTA Foundation stated. They added:

Whether you’re accelerating adoption through real-world applications, planning to utilize our EVM framework, or shaping the future of the IOTA Rebased network, our grants are designed to foster innovation and creativity across the entire spectrum.

Currently, one of the key areas of focus has been the launch of the IOTA rebased protocol. The IOTA Rebased protocol is reportedly gearing up for its mainnet re-launch in early 2025, reported CNF. On the social media platform X, Michael Atlan emphasized that this re-launch positions IOTA for broader real-world adoption

Success Of Season 1 Grants

The end of Season 1 of the IOTA Grants program has been on an upbeat note since it attracted quality talent and great projects. Altogether, there were 144 applications, from which 32 were funded amounting to $3.47 million. The process had to be momentarily halted because it was overwhelmed with applications.

The Foundation has reflected on the previous season by highlighting productive outcomes. In a blog post, the team wrote,

The first season proved highly productive, bringing exceptional talent and innovation into the IOTA ecosystem.

Hence, applying for Season 2 is relatively simple. Anyone can submit a proposal by logging onto the IOTA Grants website along with guidelines on the funding. The applicants would be interviewed by the IOTA Grant Committee, which includes members of the IOTA Foundation.

Projects are rated along six criteria including alignment with funding goals, scalability, usefulness, safety, expertise of the grantee, and long-term viability. 

The Foundation went ahead to inform that its evaluation process is quite transparent, assuring that all funding goes only to projects whose potential to alter the ecosystem can be maximally realized.

IOTA Grants Season 2 builds on the momentum of its predecessor and is seeking even more innovative ideas. “Your ideas have the power to drive positive change in the ecosystem, and the IOTA Ecosystem DLT Foundation is here to support you,” the Foundation encouraged.

The IOTA Foundation added that it’s excited to work with developers and visionaries to build the future of Web3. Thus, prospective candidates can visit the IOTA Grants website for more information or to apply.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  Crypto News Flash

~~~~~~~~~

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Seeds of Wisdom RV and Economic Updates Thursday Evening 1-9-25

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HOW THE BITCOIN FREEDOM ACT COULD SHIELD OKLAHOMANS FROM INFLATION?

In November 2024, the US inflation rate grew sharply from 2.6% to 2.7%. In May 2020, it was just 0.1%. In June 2022, it touched a peak of 9.1%. This inflation pattern has adversely affected the value of the US dollar. Inflation, thus, is something that determines the quality of life a working-class professional leads. Recent developments indicate that US states are keen to protect people from the threat of inflation.

The Bitcoin Freedom Act introduced in the Oklahoma law-making house by Senator Dusty Deevers is the latest example. How much can this law impact the United States society? 

What is the Bitcoin Freedom Act?

The act proposes that Oklahomans should be provided a chance to choose whether they want to receive their wages in Bitcoin or not. It also submits that businesses should be allowed to accept payments in Bitcoin.

Why is the Bitcoin Freedom Act Significant?

At the start of 2024, the US inflation rate stood at just 3.1%. In March, it touched a peak of 3.5%. Though in November it came down to 2.7%, it was far higher than the 1.2% inflation recorded in the same month in 2020.

Growing inflation is one of the most serious threats the US economy is facing right now. Rising inflation means falling purchasing power.

Bitcoin can save people from losing their purchasing power to inflation, as its total supply is fixed, and thus is unaffected by the threat of devaluation unlike traditional currencies.

Oklahoma’s Leadership in Financial Innovation

The introduction of the bill is likely to make a serious impact across the United States. The action has lifted the state to the celebrated position of innovation-friendly economies. It may encourage many to enter the world of financial innovation confidently.

The Future of the Bitcoin Freedom Act

The political stance against the cryptocurrency industry shifted when Republican candidate Donald Trump who projected himself as a pro-crypto candidate, defeated Democratic candidate Kamala Harris who represented a crypto-skeptic regime, in the US presidential election.

In the latest election, the Republican Party received a massive majority in Oklahoma, a US state that has emerged as a stronghold of Republicans, especially since 2011.

The Bitcoin Freedom Act, also known as SB325, is expected to be discussed in the 60th legislative session of the 60th legislature. Reports say that the session will begin on February 3, 2025.

In conclusion, the Bitcoin Freedom Act is more than legislation – it is a step toward financial empowerment and innovation. By embracing Bitcoin, Oklahoma is securing its place in the future of finance.

@ Newshounds News™

Source:  CoinPedia

~~~~~~~~~

BRICS NEWS:  BRICS FAIL TO CHALLENGE US DOLLAR IN 2024: CAN THEY THIS YEAR?

In one of the biggest developments of the last two years, the BRICS bloc has sought to challenge the dominance of the US dollar. Although its de-dollarization process persisted in 2024, the economic alliance has failed to make a significant impact. Now, all eyes are on if it stands a chance in 2025.

According to data from TradingView, a majority of major currencies have fallen against the US dollar. Indeed, the metrics show that the greenback ensured its strength through a resilient American economy. Contrarily, economic activity slowing in China and the Eurozone failed to create an environment for thriving de-dollarization.

US Dollar Ends 2024 Unmoved: Can BRICS De-Dollarization Take Hold This Year?

First created in 2001, the BRICS economic alliance has grown into a legitimate global force. The bloc has continued to expand, although its geopolitical implications have become a point of contention. Amid its increased de-dollarization efforts, the group has proved no match for the strength of the West.

Recent data show that the BRICS collective failed to truly challenge the US dollar in 2024, with its eyes now on succeeding in 2025. Over the course of the last twelve months, the Chinese yuan and Indian rupee both fell 2.8% against the dollar. Additionally, the Russian ruble fell 18.6% against the greenback.

A big reason for the outcome is the United States’ ability to continue its economic recovery. The country’s inflation has fallen from its 40-year high to settle just above the Central Bank’s target. Throughout the last year, it has become one of the best-recovering countries from the 2020 pandemic.

That hasn’t proven true for the rest of the world. Now, all eyes are on the incoming Trump administration. The US President-elect has already issued a stark warning to the BRICS bloc and those seeking to ditch the US dollar. However, his policies could have massive implications. Whether or not the greenback is challenged remains to be seen, but such a challenge would certainly come with a cost.

@ Newshounds News™

Source: Watcher Guru

~~~~~~~~~

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