Blockchain Archives

Exploring the Future of Blockchain: Trends to Watch

Casey2 weeks ago2 weeks ago07 mins

The blockchain industry is evolving at a breakneck pace, constantly redefining how we interact with technology, finance, and even our environment. From transforming the way we manage assets to driving financial inclusion, blockchain has become a force of innovation. Here’s a closer look at some of the most promising blockchain trends poised to shape the future. 1. The Rise of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Decentralized Finance, or DeFi, has disrupted traditional banking by enabling peer-to-peer financial services without intermediaries. From lending and borrowing to staking and yield farming, DeFi platforms empower users to earn on their digital assets. To maintain its relevance, DeFi is focusing on scalability and accessibility. Technologies like zkRollups and Optimistic Rollups are cutting transaction costs and improving user experiences. Cross-chain bridges are also enhancing liquidity by enabling interoperability between blockchains. As regulatory clarity grows, institutional investors are expected to enter the DeFi space, paving the way for more complex financial products. 2. Decentralized AI: A Game-Changer for Data Privacy Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming more decentralized, leveraging blockchain to distribute data processing and storage across networks. Decentralized AI, or deAI, promotes transparency, security, and privacy, addressing growing concerns over centralized monopolies. From healthcare to finance, deAI is unlocking new possibilities. For instance, medical data can be shared securely while maintaining patient privacy, and financial institutions can use decentralized AI to detect fraud collaboratively without sharing proprietary information. By democratizing access to advanced tools, deAI is enabling smaller businesses to compete in traditionally exclusive markets. 3. The Expanding Role of NFTs Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have evolved far beyond digital art. Today, NFTs are revolutionizing industries like gaming, real estate, and intellectual property. They provide proof of ownership, scarcity, and authenticity while creating new income streams for creators. In the future, NFTs will tokenize real-world assets like luxury goods and properties, ensuring transparency and reducing fraud. Enhanced interoperability will allow NFTs to seamlessly move between platforms, expanding their applications both in and out of the metaverse. 4. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs): A Financial Revolution CBDCs are emerging as a modern solution to enhance financial inclusion and modernize payment systems. Over 130 countries are actively exploring CBDC projects, with many expected to roll out in the coming years. CBDCs can provide underbanked populations with access to secure and affordable banking alternatives, reducing dependency on cash and increasing transaction efficiency. However, their implementation raises questions about privacy and centralization, particularly in regions with strict monetary controls. 5. Interoperability: Breaking Blockchain Silos With the rise of new networks and platforms, the blockchain ecosystem is becoming increasingly fragmented. Interoperability—allowing different blockchains to communicate and share data—is becoming crucial. Projects like Polkadot and Cosmos are at the forefront, creating seamless connections between blockchains. This is driving innovation by enabling multi-chain apps that combine the strengths of different networks, such as Ethereum for smart contracts and Solana for fast transactions. 6. Green Crypto and Regenerative Finance (ReFi) Environmental sustainability is a pressing issue for the crypto industry. Regenerative Finance (ReFi) is tackling this by funding ecological restoration projects through blockchain. Carbon-negative initiatives and renewable energy-powered mining operations are leading the charge. ReFi not only promotes sustainability but also integrates blockchain with global environmental goals, potentially redefining the industry’s reputation. 7. Asset Tokenization: Redefining Ownership Tokenization is transforming how we view ownership and investment by converting physical assets into digital tokens on the blockchain. This allows for fractional ownership, enhanced liquidity, and easier transferability. Tokenization is particularly impactful in sectors like real estate, where small investors can access markets traditionally reserved for the wealthy. Security tokens, representing ownership in businesses or assets, are also revolutionizing fundraising, opening new avenues for value creation. Looking Ahead Blockchain technology continues to evolve, offering solutions that address real-world challenges while unlocking new opportunities. From the disruptive potential of DeFi and NFTs to advancements in interoperability and sustainability, these trends underscore the transformative power of blockchain. To fully realize its potential, collaboration across ecosystems, improved scalability, and regulatory compliance will be essential. By staying informed and adapting to these trends, developers, businesses, and governments can harness blockchain’s full capabilities to create a decentralized and inclusive future.

Hong Kong stablecoin bill submitted to Legislative Council

Casey3 weeks ago3 weeks ago04 mins

The bill includes licensing requirements for stablecoin issuers, supply and marketing restrictions, and broad consumer protections. Hong Kong’s proposed stablecoin bill has been submitted to the Legislative Council, bringing the region closer to creating a comprehensive stablecoin regulatory system. On December 6, the Hong Kong government published the bill in the SAR Official Gazette, bringing it closer to enactment. On the 11th In 2018, the bill was submitted to the Hong Kong Legislative Council for its first reading. The bill must go through three readings, which include a series of debates, considerations, and possible amendments, before it can become law. If the bill passes the third reading, it will be sent to the territory’s head of government, who will sign the bill into law. Key Components of the Stablecoin Bill According to law firm King & Wood Mallesons, the Stablecoin Bill has three key components. These include licensing and requirements for stablecoin issuers, specific stablecoin offerings, and marketing restrictions with extensive consumer protections. Once the bill comes into effect, stablecoin issuers in Hong Kong will be required to obtain a license from the territory’s central bank, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA). Issuers will have to meet comprehensive requirements to obtain a license. The regulator will assess issuers and their managers, resources, stablecoins, reserve assets, and mechanisms for stabilizing their value. Only regulated companies and platforms will be allowed to offer or publicly sell stablecoins in Hong Kong. The bill provides consumer protections that will affect a range of market participants, including issuers and traders. MiCA-compliant stablecoins take Europe by storm If the bill passes, Hong Kong could see a similar shift in stablecoin usage as Europe saw when the MiCA regulation came into effect. On December 18, research firm Kaiko and Dutch cryptocurrency exchange Bitvavo reported that the launch of MiCA has significantly changed the stablecoin landscape in the region. Compliant issuers have flourished while issuers like Tether have stopped issuing euro-backed stablecoins. By November, MiCA-compliant stablecoins made up the majority of the market, with Circle, Societe Generale and Banking Circle stablecoins poised to account for 91% market share by the end of 2024.

Yat Siu X’s account hacked as part of a series of recent hacks: ZachXBT

Casey3 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

The X account of Yat Siu Brands, co-founder of Animoca Brands, was hacked for promoting fake currency, the latest in a series of similar hacks that have occurred over the past month. Blockchain gaming group Animoca Brands has confirmed that its founder and chairman Yat Siu was hacked on X to promote fake coins, in the latest in a series of attacks targeting crypto X accounts. “Unfortunately, [Siu’s] social media accounts have been compromised,” Animoca posted on X on December 26. “The post states that the token launch on Solana was initiated by hackers.” ¤ In the now-deleted post, Siu’s account shared a link to a token launched on Solana memecoin starter Pump.fun called Animoca Brands (MOCA), whose name is a cross between the company and its Mocaverse collection of tokens of the same name (NFT). ). Blockchain researcher ZachXBT wrote in a Token post that the operation generated $500,000 last month. ZachXBT said the fake MOCA tokens were “distributed in the same address” as the fake tokens distributed to other recently hacked CryptoX accounts. According to Birdeye, the fake MOCA tokens peaked at $36,700 shortly after being distributed to Siu’s wallet, but lost almost all of their value within seconds, with the market cap dropping to $7,700. The token’s current value is $6,200, and what little trading volume has been reduced. ZachXBT previously explained that the hackers were able to control more than 15 X accounts using social media — a signal to the X group to issue a copyright infringement notice. This notification appears to be a scam and tricks victims into visiting a phishing website, where they enter their Account X password and two-factor authentication (2FA) login messages, including messages sent to the attacker’s account. The first known incident occurred on November 26, involving Bitcoin infrastructure service provider RuneMine’s Account X, while the most recent (before the alleged Siu attack) occurred on December 26 with a cryptocurrency trading account for video streaming site Kick.

BRICS Welcomes Nine Countries as Partners – Russia Hints Four More Will Join Soon

Casey3 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

BRICS is set to expand to include nine new partner countries in 2025, signaling growing global rapprochement with BRICS as more countries seek to secure ties. BRICS to expand to include new partner countries in 2025 Several countries will gain BRICS partner status from January 1, 2025, after Russia receives the relevant confirmations, Kremlin adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters on Tuesday. Ushakov, referring to the BRICS summit in Kazan, said, “One of the main outcomes of the summit was the creation of the category of BRICS partner countries and an agreement on the list of 13 invited countries,” TASS reported. Russian officials added that they have been sent to these states. So far, willingness to become BRICS partner countries has been confirmed by Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda and Uzbekistan. “From January 1, 2025, they will officially acquire the status of BRICS partner countries. However, we expect replies from the other four countries to which we sent invitations soon,” he added. Ushakov noted that Eritrea has shown interest in cooperation with BRICS countries, reflecting the growing number of countries seeking cooperation with it. Representatives of partner countries will be invited to important meetings such as BRICS summits and foreign ministers’ meetings. The official added, “We believe that it is right to include partners in high-level security meetings, parliamentary forums and other events.” Regarding Russia’s chairmanship position in BRICS, Ushakov noted that Moscow is making efforts to incorporate new members into the organizational framework. He stressed that Russia needs to support the work of BRICS in an expanded manner “so that the new members of the group can harmoniously adapt to the usual arrangements and modes of interaction.” Ushakov assessed the process as successful and stressed the importance of Russia’s role in leading the bloc through the transition period.

DeFi hacks to drop 40% in 2024, CeFi breaches to hit $694 million – Hacken

Casey3 weeks ago3 weeks ago04 mins

DeFi losses fell 40% in 2024 as security measures tighten, while CeFi breaches hit $694 million. Dollar losses due to security breaches in decentralized finance (DeFi) are expected to drop 40% from 2023 to 2024, thanks to improved protocols, stronger bridges, and additional measures. The rise in DeFi security measures comes on the heels of a bleak year for centralized fiat currencies (CeFi), according to blockchain security firm Hacken’s annual “Web3 Security Report.” CeFi has suffered more than two breaches, with losses rising to $694 million as centralized exchanges are the focus of access control vulnerabilities and other security issues. The report’s findings highlight significant differences between DeFi’s progress and CeFi’s struggles, providing a valuable perspective to examine both sectors and highlighting the weakness of integration. DeFi Security Pump The 2024 Hacken report predicts that DeFi losses will drop significantly in 2024, from $787 million in 2023 to $474 million this year. The report said that bridge-related vulnerabilities were the largest breach in DeFi history, with losses falling from $338 million in 2023 to $114 million in 2024. Despite some advances in DeFi, such as multi-party operations and non-knowledge tokens, challenges remain, with access control vulnerabilities accounting for nearly half of all DeFi losses, such as the $55 million Radiant Capital hack. CeFi breaches are on the rise CeFi’s performance in 2024 contrasts with the rise of DeFi, with financial losses exceeding $694 million in 2023, according to a Hacken report. The increase in breaches was primarily due to governance vulnerabilities and major incidents such as the DMM exchange hack in Q2 and the WazirX hack in Q3. The hack, which involved leaking private keys and exploiting a multi-signature vulnerability, cost $305 million and $230 million, respectively. Dyma Budorin, founder and CEO of Hacken, told Cointelegraph that the report’s findings reveal “significant gaps” in the security of CeFi operations, due to “poor private key management, weak multi-signature setup, and poor governance.” Lessons to be learned The significant difference in financial losses in the DeFi and CeFi sectors highlights ways to improve both industries. Budolin said that attackers exploit vulnerabilities in security areas, making it important to implement key management procedures and automated monitoring systems to mitigate these risks. The problems identified by Director Hacken are evident in North American hackers who have stolen more than $1.3 billion in crypto assets in 47 incidents this year, according to a December 19 report by Chainalysis.

Life Saving, Taxation, and Crypto Charity: An Interview with Joshua Herring

Casey3 weeks ago3 weeks ago09 mins

Joshua Herring, the new CEO of the Longevity Science Foundation, discusses how cryptocurrency donations can fund long-term research and create tax benefits for investors. Achieving a longer lifespan is a long-term goal that humans have been pursuing through various types of research. With simplicity, fast turnaround times, and low costs, cryptocurrencies can serve as an effective tool to fund such efforts. By donating to research that extends healthy lifespan—not just life—crypto donors can help usher in a new era of preventative medicine, improved quality of life, and unprecedented collaboration between investors, scientists, and biotech entrepreneurs. As 2024 draws to a close, the opportunity for year-end tax breaks is approaching. The Longevity Science Foundation (LSF) is a non-profit organization that funds long-term research through cryptocurrency donations, providing the cryptocurrency community with a unique opportunity to use the proceeds for the good of the world. The NGO recently appointed Joshua Herring as its new president and CEO. Herring has a background in asset management and tax strategy, and is involved in finance, philanthropy, and biomedical research. Under his leadership, LSF aims to bring the written word to new medical practices, advance AI-powered diagnostics, personal care, and longevity science. In this exclusive interview, Herring discusses the significant opportunities facing crypto investors at the end of the year, the tax benefits that come with donating, and the life-changing research that donations can drive. Cointelegraph: With 2024 approaching, why do you think it’s a great time for crypto investors to consider giving to charity?Joshua Herring: Cryptocurrency investors now have a unique opportunity to make a big profit. The benefits of crypto investing go beyond financial, they can also drive innovation and transform healthcare around the world. By donating a large amount of money before December 31, 2024, you can avoid capital gains taxes, claim large tax deductions, and participate in long-term research on the planet. This is an opportunity to combine financial planning with the goal of building a longer, healthier life. CT: Can you explain how donating cryptocurrency can reduce taxes?JH: Of course. Donating popular cryptocurrency allows you to ignore capital gains taxes while claiming a tax deduction for the full market value of the asset. This is one of the most effective ways to support causes you care about. At LSF, we encourage investors to use this strategy not only to make money, but to support transformative health research. With many cryptocurrencies at or near all-time highs, now is a great time to consider this strategy. We accept over 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin BTC up to $96,207, Ethereum ETH up to $3,381.90, and stablecoins like USD Coin USDC up to $1.00 through a simple online form provided by The Giving Block. Transactions are completed within seconds, and you will receive a tax invoice to pay for your proceeds. Not only are we using cryptocurrency to democratize giving, we are also building an ecosystem that gives donors direct access to scientists, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders in the long-term and biotech industries. Through our parent organization, LongeVC, donors are part of a network that is shaping the biotech landscape. CT: You have extensive tax strategy experience from your previous roles. How has this expertise influenced your approach at the LSF? JH: In my previous role in high-value asset management at AllianceBernstein, I worked with clients and their accountants to optimize tax strategies. Two key strategies that have proven to be particularly effective are year-end gifting and tax harvesting. At LSF, I use this knowledge to help donors maximize their impact. This is my own work. Both of my parents had cancer, my mother had sarcoma, and my father had prostate cancer, and both are alive today because of basic research. I am deeply committed to ensuring that more people around the world can share similar success stories through early diagnosis and prevention. CT: How is the Longevity Science Foundation advancing global healthcare through longevity science? JH: We focus on four areas of change that can transform healthcare around the world. Using artificial intelligence, we can accelerate diagnosis, personalize treatment, and drive drug discovery to improve health outcomes. Predictive analytics tools shift the focus from treatment to prevention, enabling earlier and more effective disease management. Our current goal is to raise $250,000 to support research into the health and longevity of women. This grant will enable us to support a field of research that has not previously been funded. We recently awarded a grant to the University of Oxford to explore how diet affects heart aging, with a focus on reversing the negative effects of high methionine levels. The goal of this study is to identify dietary interventions that can slow or prevent cardiovascular aging. These findings could improve heart health and encourage a longer lifespan. These are just a few examples of the areas of our transformative work that we want the crypto community to be involved in. CT: What advice do you have for crypto investors considering giving before the end of the year? JH: It’s not just about saving taxes, but about encouraging innovation that will change lives around the world. Your cryptocurrency donations can support artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, personalized medicine and care, creating a world where diseases can be prevented, not just cured. But time will tell. To qualify for the 2024 tax deduction, donations must be made by December 31. CT: What excites you most about working at LSF?JH: The ability to shape a future where everyone lives longer and healthier than I do every day. This is about more than just research. It’s about hope, innovation, and the opportunity to change lives for the better. Together, we can overcome the greatest challenges in healthcare and create a healthier life for all.

Crypto Biz: Coinbase vs. BiT Global – Over $1 Billion wBTC Dispute

Casey4 weeks ago3 weeks ago08 mins

This week, Crypto Biz covers Coinbase’s controversial delisting of wBTC, Deutsche Bank Blockchain, USDT in Europe, repaying FTX creditors, BVNK’s US launch, and more. Coinbase’s decision to delist wrapped Bitcoin (wBTC) has sparked major controversy and prompted a $1 billion lawsuit from BiT Global Digital Limited, the co-manager of wBTC’s reserves. In November, Coinbase announced plans to delist wBTC from its platform, citing violations of undisclosed listing standards. The decision was criticized by BiT Global Digital Limited, a Hong Kong-based cryptocurrency exchange that has partnered with BitGo to store wBTC’s Bitcoin reserves since August. BiT Global argued that with this move, Coinbase wanted to promote its competing product, Coinbase Wrapped BTC (cbBTC), which was launched on September 12 and has since become one of the most popular Bitcoin wrappers with total sales of approximately US$1.4 billion. Following the delisting, BiT Global filed a lawsuit against Coinbase on December 13, seeking more than $1 billion in damages. The lawsuit accuses Coinbase of anti-competitive conduct, including attempting to monopolize the wrapped Bitcoin market under the Sherman Act, engaging in predatory conduct aimed at undermining wBTC’s market position, and making false statements implying that wBTC did not meet listing criteria. Coinbase’s general counsel Paul Grewal defended the company’s actions a few days later, saying that assets that do not meet the listing criteria will be delisted. The latest development in the case emerged on December 17 after Coinbase filed a response to a lawsuit highlighting the risks associated with cryptocurrency entrepreneur Justin Sun, including allegations of financial misconduct and regulatory investigations. The exchange’s response supported the assumption that there were no technical reasons for the token delisting. In X, users were reminded that Coinbase itself was under numerous investigations. On December 18, a federal judge sided with Coinbase and refused to issue an injunction to block the token delisting. Judge Araceli Martínez-Holguín said BiT Global’s legal team had not demonstrated “immediate and irreparable harm” in their arguments. But the decision appears to be just the beginning of a new legal battle. This week on Crypto Biz, we also cover Deutsche Bank’s blockchain, USDT trading in Europe, repaying FTX creditors, and BVNK’s US expansion. Deutsche Bank builds L2 blockchain on Ethereum Germany’s largest financial institution, Deutsche Bank, is reportedly developing its own Layer 2 (L2) blockchain on Ethereum using ZKsync technology to address compliance challenges associated with the use of public blockchains in regulated finance. According to Bloomberg, the L2 solution, part of Project Dama 2, is designed to improve transaction efficiency, ensure regulatory protections and integrate directly with Ethereum. Project Dama 2 is an initiative of the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s Project Guardian, which brings together 24 financial institutions to explore tokenizing blockchain-based assets. Tether USDT trading continues across Europe despite Coinbase delisting European cryptocurrency exchanges continue to support Tether’s USDt stablecoin after Coinbase announced it would delist it for European customers to comply with upcoming regulatory requirements. Major exchanges including Binance, Crypto.com and Kraken have maintained trading support for Tether’s USDt-USDT ticker at a drop of $0.9988 after Coinbase delisted the stablecoin in December. 13. Other platforms such as KuCoin, MEXC, and Bitget also offer stablecoins to European users, but the full implementation of the Crypto Asset Market Regulation (MiCA) is looming on December 30th. Coinbase has designated USDT as a MiCA-restricted stablecoin, but European authorities have not made a clear statement on whether USDT should be considered non-compliant with local laws. Kraken and BitGo will help distribute first FTX payments in 2025 Representative debtors in the bankruptcy case of the insolvent cryptocurrency exchange FTX announced that a restructuring plan that will allow them to repay customers will come into effect in January. 3. In a Dec. 16 announcement, FTX said it had established a timeline for the initial distribution of funds to the exchange’s users, more than two years after the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. According to FTX Debtors, the first group of creditors can expect repayment within 60 days starting Jan. 3, 2025, subject to certain conditions. The debtors said cryptocurrency companies BitGo and Kraken will help distribute the repayments to FTX users. Other groups of customers expecting repayments will be announced “in due course,” the exchange said. BVNK Raises $50M to Expand into U.S. Stablecoin Market Stablecoin infrastructure company BVNK has completed a $50 million Series B funding round led by Haun Ventures and plans to expand into the U.S. The new capital will be used to expand BVNK’s operations to San Francisco and New York City, according to a Dec. 17 announcement. London-based BVNK is currently valued at around $750 million. The company’s U.S. branch will develop local banking infrastructure and work on obtaining an operating license to serve local businesses. Participants in the round included Coinbase Ventures, Scribble Ventures, DRW VC, and existing investors Avenir and Tiger Global.

Lens Avara Raises $31 Million for SocialFi-Focused L2 Blockchain

Casey4 weeks ago3 weeks ago03 mins

Lens will launch its mainnet early next year, giving users ownership and access to money for their assets. Lens, a layer 2 blockchain created by Avara, has raised $31 million in a funding round led by Lightspeed Faction. The funds will be used to expand the network infrastructure ahead of the mainnet launch early next year. Plug-and-play social features Lens is built specifically for SocialFi use cases. According to the version 3 developer preview description, it has additional plug-and-play features including accounts, usernames, charts, feeds, and groups, as well as monetary features that developers can add to an app-based chain. Lens’s main prediction is to launch on Ethereum in early 2025. “The current L2 price is too high for widespread adoption. To bring SocialFi web3 to the mainstream, we built the fastest, cheapest, and most secure L2. […] Lens provides an easy-to-use web2 while providing unparalleled benefits that only blockchain can provide.” For participants, Lens offers the best user experience and a wide range of opportunities to create money to build their own financial path. It also gives users the power, control, and ownership of assets. Lens is built with ZKsync and uses the Avail data access protocol. It has partnered with development platform Alchemy, oracle network Chainlink, token-based tokenizer The Graph, and stablecoin USD CoinUS Department of Agriculture Stocks will fall $1.00, Consensys MetaMask wallet and Uniswap exchange. Other investors in the round include Avail, Circle, Consensys, Foresight Ventures, and Wintermute Ventures, along with investors including Rune Christensen, Anurag Arjun, Anton Bukov, Spencer Noon, and Illia Polosukhin. A nod from Trump Kulechov is also the CEO of Avara, which launched Lens in May 2022. Funding. Aave Companies announced the acquisition of the company behind the crypto wallet Family and a name change. On December 13, AaveDAO accepted a request from Donald Trump-backed platform World Liberty Financial to launch an Aave prototype on Ethereum in exchange for 20% of the payments it makes and 7% of the WLFI governance token currency (WLFI).

Executives Heading to Blockchain Gaming Companies Ahead of 2025 AAA Launch

Casey4 weeks ago3 weeks ago04 mins

The fourth annual survey conducted by the Blockchain Gaming Association shows a rise in C-suite executives, but other executives are on the decline. As the popularity of the blockchain gaming industry grows, the top gaming executives are increasingly prominent, according to data from the Blockchain Gaming Association’s fourth annual survey. The 2024 survey collated and analyzed data from 623 survey respondents from the Web3 gaming industry, and is the group’s largest survey to date. The respondents ranged from C-level executives to professional sports players. While many things have remained the same since the 2021 annual survey, including trust issues and user experience as key factors hindering adoption, the 2024 survey shows that significant growth at the management level and the influx of gaming talent are ahead of industry experience. According to a report detailing the findings, 73.2% of respondents held senior management positions. “Senior leadership is at an all-time high, with 46.7% of respondents holding founder, director or C-level positions – the highest proportion in four years.” A growing C-suite The report says the concentration of senior positions in the industry reflects “consolidation,” noting that funding is increasing and prices are slowing following the so-called “crypto winter” of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Life. However, the influx of talent from outside is one of the reasons why the leadership ranks have changed. More than half (52.5%) of respondents said that gaming is their area of expertise. This figure has increased significantly in 2023 (34.2%) and 2022 (39.2%). Those who considered themselves blockchain or cryptocurrency experts dropped to just 10.8%, down from 21% in 2022 and 2023 and 27.4% in 2021. The Web3 gaming world is poised to enter the AAA gaming market by 2025, with Ubisoft, Square-Enix, CCP and others launching competitors and mainstream demand. Static population The blockchain gaming industry is likely to face many challenges as it pushes into AAA territory by 2025. The survey showed that respondents aged 18 to 24 years old made up only 6.1% of all respondents. This is consistent with the idea that Web3 is already so pervasive that it is difficult to develop future talent or attract young people. The team also wrote: “Gender diversity remains a challenge.” Nearly 82% of respondents were male, and the number increased significantly at the highest levels of employment. “Among the CEOs, founders, directors and C-level executives surveyed, 87.2% were male, while only 12.5% were female. This is a higher proportion of men compared to the overall survey population.”

The modular blockchain will redefine Bitcoin and integrate artificial intelligence to increase security and scalability

Casey1 month ago3 weeks ago010 mins

This new roadmap will redefine Bitcoin and DeFi with AI governance, ensuring end-to-end proof-of-work and security. Manual processes in financial decisions are no longer necessary – from capital allocation to the governance of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), the impact of artificial intelligence is easily felt in various areas. The modern financial system is already benefiting from this exciting new technology: artificial intelligence experts are taking over the roles of institutional investors, fund managers, and even private strategists. As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in the business world, the need for a trust and security framework will increase. In the context of Web3 and decentralized finance (DeFi), AI agents will need an environment that is resistant to manipulation and fraud. With the advancement of artificial intelligence in DeFi, to ensure the security and relevance of the Web3 space, Syscoin (a modular blockchain powered by Bitcoin) has announced a comprehensive roadmap that aims to expand Bitcoin’s role in the financial ecosystem and integrate emerging artificial intelligence technologies. . knowledge technology. A legacy asset built on the foundation of Bitcoin securityFounded in 2014, Syscoin is deeply integrated into the Bitcoin network. As a mining platform used by most Bitcoin miners, Syscoin combines Bitcoin’s renowned security with its proprietary framework to provide a scalable and scalable solution for Web3. Over the past decade, Syscoin has sought to preserve and enhance Bitcoin’s trustless nature while addressing some of its performance limitations. The newly announced roadmap shows that it is possible to incorporate advanced functions and functions without compromising the security and integrity of Bitcoin as a DeFi token. Addressing scalability and interoperability issuesBitcoin’s scalability and security will remain the gold standard for blockchain, but scalability remains a major challenge, especially as Bitcoin’s Web3 ecosystem continues to grow to support alternative platforms like Ethereum and Solana applications. Syscoin’s “sidechain” project calls for a fully functional “application chain” that adheres to Bitcoin’s core principles. By acting as a separate extension, Edgechains can enable highly complex applications, such as high-end DeFi platforms, without burdening the underlying chain. This arrangement is designed to preserve the trustless nature of the proof-of-work (PoW) model, while introducing a layer of scalability that allows developers to innovate more. The collaboration between Edgechains promises a seamless and user-friendly Web3 ecosystem, bridging the gap that currently drives developers to different platforms. Syscoin’s architecture ensures a shared currency across Edgechains, preventing the watershed caused by the rise of a single layer 2 network in other ecosystems. Additionally, the availability of anonymous data (zkDA) ensures high throughput without compromising scalability. Syscoin’s flagship product, Edgechain zkSYS, demonstrates the platform’s capabilities. zkSYS is built on zkRollup technology, which enables scalable, decentralized, and decentralized applications (DApps). ZkSYS provides a powerful proof of concept for the broader Syscoin ecosystem and provides a model for other projects to emulate using the tools provided by the Syscoin architecture. Provides Endurance and StabilityAt the heart of Syscoin’s enhanced security model is the Sentry node, an incentive layer designed to increase endurance and stability without using a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) protocol. Using multi-quorum key chains, these supported nodes help ensure that transactions remain valid, reducing the risk of 51% attacks and random mining. This approach addresses Bitcoin’s lack of finality, key requirements for data availability (DA) and advanced scaling solutions, and maintains the integrity of PoW. In this context, Syscoin introduces artificial intelligence nodes as an intelligence layer, which can perform segmentation, predictive analysis, automated management, and fraud detection. They also aim to enable advanced AI agents that can operate independently in DeFi or as participants in DAOs. This AI-powered BTC Sentry Node is designed to maintain Bitcoin’s security guarantees while allowing AI agents to operate in a decentralized environment. This combination promises to enable networks to learn, adapt, and self-regulate, paving the way for AI-powered blockchains under the highly stable proven PoW principles. Expanding Bitcoin’s reachBy implementing the Bitcoin Virtual Machine (BitVM), Syscoin aims to create an environment where complex smart contracts can operate with Bitcoin’s strong PoW security. This technology will serve as a central hub for transaction processing, allowing various ecosystems to communicate seamlessly. By incorporating zkRollup’s scalability enhancements, BitVM can support more complex applications, from financial devices to autonomous control frameworks, all without compromising Bitcoin’s core security features. Trustless TransferSyscoin’s Robin Bridge enables asset transfers between Bitcoin and its ecosystem. By introducing zero-knowledge (ZK) smart contracts, the bridge eliminates the need for real-time intermediaries, ensuring the smooth flow of BTC and other assets between chains. This approach helps maintain the independence and security of the underlying network. Through the failure detection mechanisms associated with Bitcoin’s consensus, on-chain management conflicts can be resolved, reducing overhead and minimizing deadlocks. Use cases for a growing ecosystemBecause Syscoin combines the unbreakable security of Bitcoin with advanced technology and AI, DApp developers can envision a decentralized, data-rich platform that can access real-time analytics and leverage shared pools, thereby achieving better markets and fair pricing. There are many use cases for this advancement. Gaming platforms could transform into dynamic, AI-powered ecosystems that can respond to player behavior and provide personalized experiences. Similarly, supply chain networks will benefit from increased transparency and autonomy as intelligent agents can inspect inventory, logistics, and compliance without the need for human intervention. That same combination of security and intelligence could support robust insurance services, where AI-powered analytics can detect fraud and resolve claims, reducing costs and increasing consumer confidence. While memecoins, a space driven by ideology, could evolve into “memecoin 2.0,” the token model will incorporate AI-driven governance and economic incentives that will enable a microeconomic system to become more robust and efficient over time. Syscoin’s roadmap is not just about technological advancements, but also about developing the blockchain landscape, specifically by bringing the Bitcoin platform to the forefront. By adhering to its principles more than ever and incorporating innovations driven by artificial intelligence, Syscoin creates an ecosystem that offers security, scalability, and intelligence.

Bitcoin Breaks $100,000, ETH Still Doing Well

Casey1 month ago3 weeks ago06 mins

Bitcoin’s recent rally last week wasn’t without its ups and downs, as investors flocked to Ethereum ETFs, and more. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and the Return of Trading Bitcoin is set to hit $100,000 before the New Year. 100K is a huge psychological milestone, and the crypto community is celebrating the milestone. It’s a big thank you, a big, “I told you so.” Some are scared, but many are pointing to a Darth Maul-like 2017 when Bitcoin first hit $10,000. To explain the speed of $100,000, we can point to several triggers. The most obvious is the Trump administration’s support for cryptocurrency candidates. A few weeks ago, Trump appointed Scott Bessent, a hedge fund manager who supports the creation of a strategic national cryptocurrency reserve, as Secretary of the Treasury. Howard Lutnick, CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald, which owns most of the US Treasury’s Tether bonds, was nominated as Commerce Secretary. This week, he appointed crypto advocate Paul Atkins as SEC chairman. Since 2017, Atkins has served as co-chair of the Chamber of Digital Commerce’s Token Alliance, which focuses on policy issues related to the digital asset space. The day after the election was announced, Bitcoin hit $100,000. My favorite quote about the Trump administration’s choices came from Noelle Acheson on the excellent Bits + Bips podcast this week. Speaking about the choices the Trump administration made over the previous administration, Acheson said, “It’s like a tough choice.” Another driver for Bitcoin is the return of the retail industry to cryptocurrency. In recent weeks, the value of many of the so-called “dinosaur coins” has increased by hundreds of percent. Dinocoin was a popular coin in the last cycle but has since fallen out of favor, much like XRP. XRP’s market cap surpassed Solana to rise to fourth place, and briefly moved up to third place from Tether as an example of the rise of dinosaurs. I think there will be two types of traders entering the market in this cycle, and one of them will be buying Bitcoin. You invest in altcoins like a regular trader because “it’s too late to make money from Bitcoin now.” But unlike previous cycles, I think now that Bitcoin has been institutionalized by companies like BlackRock, large assets and older traders (e.g., the baby boomers of millennials) will enter the market. They have money, but they won’t be getting into Bitcoin, or even Ethereum on the risk curve. Speaking of Ethereum, it’s been a pretty good week for the high-flying alt-cryptocurrency Bitcoin. This week, Ethereum ETF flows have been higher than BTC ETF flows for a few days in a row. It seems like the funds are on the rise. Another good sign is Ethereum’s performance during Bitcoin’s rally. So far, ETH has outperformed BTC and SOL. With ETH showing signs of strength, you can see that ETH-based blue chip NFTs are doing well. Who are you? All of the above NFT collections have seen their prices increase in the past 7 days. You can also expect Ethereum L2 to do well, and it did. I think Base is the best Ethereum L2 at the moment. They have proven to the market that tokenization is not coming, Ethereum L1 is a popular strategy. The artificial intelligence proxy in Base via Virtual is the strongest of all chains. Finally, Coinbase has not yet started attracting customers to Base. Finally, I will leave you with a question that we are considering this week in Token Narratives. Where are we in the market cycle? This is a good thing to remember when things get hot.

Cryptocurrency Sector Valuation Surges Past $3.5 Trillion Amid Market Rebound

Casey1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The cryptocurrency market experienced a dramatic resurgence on Thursday, as the total sector valuation soared beyond $3.5 trillion. This marks a robust 9.4% recovery following the market crash earlier in the week, signaling renewed investor confidence and market stability. Liquidations Highlight Volatility Despite the positive movement, the last 24 hours have been turbulent for many traders. Data reveals that approximately 104,700 traders faced liquidations, with the total value of liquidated contracts reaching $298.5 million. Notably, long contracts accounted for 58% of this total, equating to $172.7 million. This highlights the significant risks associated with leveraged trading in the volatile cryptocurrency market. Political Endorsement Boosts Bitcoin In an unexpected turn of events, President-elect Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of adopting a Bitcoin strategic reserve during his visit to the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday. While details remain sparse, such a move could mark a watershed moment for Bitcoin, further legitimizing it as a strategic financial asset. Market analysts speculate that this announcement contributed to the day’s bullish sentiment, as it underscores the growing acceptance of cryptocurrency at the highest levels of government and finance. Broader Implications The recent surge in valuation is being closely watched by market participants and analysts. This rebound not only restores a degree of investor confidence but also raises questions about the sustainability of such rapid recoveries in the face of underlying volatility. With institutional interest in cryptocurrency continuing to rise and potential political endorsements on the horizon, the sector appears poised for further growth, albeit with its characteristic unpredictability. The Road Ahead As the market moves forward, traders and investors will need to remain vigilant. The events of the past week serve as a stark reminder of the cryptocurrency sector’s inherent volatility, where substantial gains and losses can occur in short timeframes. However, the prospect of greater institutional and governmental involvement suggests a more stable and regulated future for digital assets. For now, the cryptocurrency market’s ability to recover so strongly after a significant downturn reflects its resilience and the growing belief in its long-term potential.