Global bank Citi has predicted 2025 could be a possible inflection point for blockchain adoption driven by stablecoins, akin to the breakout year artificial intelligence (AI) had with popular application ChatGPT. "2025 has the potential to be blockchain’s ‘ChatGPT’ moment," the bank's analysts said in a report published earlier this week. At the center of the Citi's projection are stablecoins, a class of cryptocurrencies pegged to traditional currencies like the U.S. dollar. These tokens, led by Tether's $145 billion USDT and Circle's $60 billion USDC, have seen tremendous growth recently and are increasingly being used for payments and remittances globally. Citi sees the asset class potentially growing to $1.6 trillion by 2030 in its base case from the current $230 billion, with the caveat that regulatory support and institutional integration take hold. In the bank's more optimistic scenario, the market could balloon to $3.7 trillion, though lingering structural challenges could keep the number closer to $500 billion in the bank's bear case. A major catalyst is the supportive regulatory stance in the U.S., with a recent presidential executive order directing the formation of a federal framework for digital assets, the report said. The clarity around stablecoin rules could allow these tokens to be more deeply embedded in the financial system, offering faster payments, improved transparency and more efficient asset settlement. "This could lead to greater adoption of blockchain-based money and spur other use cases, financial and beyond, in the U.S. private and public sector," the authors noted. Stablecoin issuers to become major U.S. Treasury holders Stablecoins are expected to remain heavily dollar-denominated in the future. The report anticipates that around 90% of stablecoins in circulation in 2030 will still be tied to the U.S. dollar, cementing its dominance. This has major implications for the global financial system. Dollar stablecoin issuers could become one of the largest buyers of U.S. Treasuries, assuming that regulations push toward backing tokens with low-risk, highly liquid traditional financial assets like government bonds. Citibank estimated issuers could hold $1.2 trillion in U.S. government debt by the end of the decade, potentially surpassing all major foreign sovereign holders. Meanwhile, the central banks of countries in Europe and Asia will likely promote their own digital currencies, or CBDCs, the report noted. The report pointed to several risks that could hamper the growth. Stablecoins de-pegged nearly 1,900 times in 2023 alone, including more than 600 instances involving major tokens, the report's authors wrote, citing Moody's data. In extreme cases, mass redemptions—like those following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) that consequently hit USDC—can disrupt crypto liquidity, force automated selloffs and ripple through financial markets, the authors added.
CoinDesk 2025-04-25 20:56
Paul Atkins’ first public event as chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission was a crypto roundtable on Friday, where the new agency chief devoted his inaugural speech to assuring the industry that he'll continue to remake securities policy to favor digital assets innovation. The agency and industry have been awaiting congressional action to establish crypto market-structure oversight that will likely set guardrails, and Atkins told an audience at the SEC's Washington headquarters that the regulator will work toward delivering "a rational, fit-for-purpose framework" for crypto. However, in answer to a question from CoinDesk after his speech, Atkins indicated that the agency may be able to act to some degree during this wait for new laws. "It's always good to have Congress' input, and if there's a statute to back up what we're doing, I think that's all the better," Atkins said. "But we have ample room to maneuver under existing rules and laws." Atkins further suggested that he thinks the concept of special-purpose crypto broker dealers, a little-used registration most prominently represented by Prometheum, has been very successful and may need to be reconsidered, and he said the agency will look at whether custody rules need to be changed to "accommodate crypto assets and blockchain technology." Atkins previously appeared at a swearing-in ceremony earlier this week in the White House, where Trump said "he's the perfect man to lead this agency" at a time when the digital assets sector needs regulatory clarity, and Atkins said a "top priority of my chairmanship will be to provide a firm regulatory foundation for digital assets." But Friday's event at the SEC's headquarters represented his first full-fledged engagement with the public. Read More: Crypto Ally Paul Atkins Sworn In to Replace Gary Gensler Atop U.S. SEC The crypto sector has high hopes for Atkins, though his stand-in for the past few months — Commissioner Mark Uyeda — already took a number of decisive actions to reverse the regulator's earlier crypto reluctance under former Chair Gary Gensler. As interim chairman, Uyeda reversed or sidelined a number of crypto policy efforts pursued under Gensler and has abandoned most of the regulator's prominent enforcement actions targeting the industry. Until now, industry expectations for Atkins' leadership were based on conjecture rooted in his experience advising and investing in digital assets firms, especially since his Senate confirmation hearing failed to explore his crypto views . Atkins had served as an adviser to crypto entities such as the Digital Chamber and as a board member of tokenization firm Securitize, and his ties to Off the Chain Capital had previously linked him to its investment stakes in big crypto companies like Digital Currency Group (DCG) and Kraken. Friday's roundtable was the third in a series the agency has held on crypto matters, this time focused on custody in the industry. Crypto custody has been a particularly dicey topic at the agency, which under Gensler's reign had sought to approve a policy demanding investment advisers put their clients' digital assets only with certain qualified custodians. Gensler had argued that the rule was meant to exclude most of the existing crypto platforms as suitable custodians, but the effort was put on ice. Read More: U.S. SEC's Acting Chair Walking Back Agency Proposal on Crypto Trading Platforms Atkins was asked by reporters on the event's sidelines about President Trump's own crypto interests and whether Trump's memecoin, $TRUMP, will rob credibility from the White House on industry policy. "I have no comment on any of that," Atkins said.
CoinDesk 2025-04-25 20:55
Key Takeaways: Circle expects to comply with future U.S. regulations on stablecoins, which may involve obtaining a trust charter or another type of nonbank license. Regulatory uncertainty in the U.S. contrasts with more defined frameworks in other jurisdictions, adding pressure for lawmakers to act. Circle has denied reports that it plans to become a bank. The company’s Chief Strategy Officer, Dante Disparte, clarified in a statement posted on April 24 that it does not intend to seek status as an insured depository institution. @circle does not intend to become a bank or any other kind of an insured depository institution. We do intend to comply with a future U.S. regulatory framework for payment stablecoins, which may require registering for a federal or state trust charter or other nonbank license. We… — Dante Disparte (@ddisparte) April 25, 2025 According to Dante, the company said it will comply with expected legislation on payment stablecoins, which may require holding a federal or state trust charter or another form of nonbank license. Circle Clarifies Stance Amid Speculation on Bank Licensing “We do intend to comply with a future U.S. regulatory framework for payment stablecoins, which may require registering for a federal or state trust charter or other nonbank license,” said Dante. “We urge Congress to pass bipartisan payment stablecoin legislation now to champion American innovation, stability, and consumer safety,” he added. A report on April 21 placed Circle among several crypto firms said to be exploring bank charters, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter. Alongside BitGo, companies such as Paxos and Coinbase were described as considering various forms of licensure—including trust charters and industrial bank models—to bring their stablecoin and custody businesses under formal regulatory oversight. The article linked these discussions to potential legislation moving through Congress that would require stablecoin issuers to hold either a federal or state charter. That framework, backed by members of both parties, is designed to bring oversight to the growing market for dollar-backed tokens used in digital payments and settlement. Stablecoin Rules in the U.S. Still Undefined Circle, which issues the USDC stablecoin , has been central to policy debates around digital dollar assets. As one of the two largest stablecoin issuers globally, the company is often referenced in regulatory contexts—even when it has not made formal moves in line with the speculation. The U.S. still lacks a unified legal framework for stablecoins, leaving oversight split across agencies. While Congress debates new rules, firms like Circle are navigating patchwork requirements that mirror banking without the benefits or obligations of becoming a bank. Other markets have moved faster. Europe’s MiCA and Japan’s stablecoin laws provide clearer paths for issuers. Without similar clarity in the U.S., regulatory ambiguity continues to shape how—and where—stablecoin companies operate. The post Is Circle Becoming a Bank? CSO Slams Rumors, Demands Stablecoin Law appeared first on Cryptonews .
cryptonews 2025-04-25 20:19
Key Takeaways: Vilonia rejects crypto mining to protect community health. Arkansas tightens crypto mining rules amid statewide backlash. Studies link crypto mining to pollution harming 1.9 million Americans. On April 25, Vilonia’s planning commission rejected a cryptocurrency mining facility proposal. Residents had protested for weeks, arguing the operation would bring unbearable noise, drain local energy supplies, and harm the environment. Could Arkansas Spark a Nationwide Crypto Mining Crackdown? Residents cautioned that the steady hum of cooling fans and surging energy needs threaten to erode the town’s calm and drive up utility bills. One of the residents stressed that they had moved to the city seeking peace rather than Bitcoin. Vilonia, an affluent Arkansas town, boasts a median household income exceeding $80,000 (2023), well above the state average. Its high homeownership rates and growing population reflect a thriving community. However, the town’s energy infrastructure has put the community on the map. Bitcoin miners are eyeing the town thanks to its proximity to an Entergy substation and surplus energy capacity. For an industry hungry for power, Vilonia’s grid is a goldmine. The latest mining rejection continues Vilonia’s firm stance against crypto mining . In 2023, commissioners denied Vilo AR’s permit to establish a crypto mining facility in the town. This isn’t just small-town resistance. It’s part of a growing statewide crackdown. State lawmakers have also moved to rein in crypto mining. Arkansas lawmakers passed two bills in 2024, tightening restrictions on crypto mining operations. Legislators also introduced a measure to ban mining facilities within 30 miles of military bases. However, the Senate’s City, County, and Local Affairs Committee later shelved it. The backlash stretches far beyond Arkansas. From Texas to Pennsylvania, communities are pushing back against what they see as industrial intrusions. In Granbury, Texas, residents took their fight to court last October, suing Marathon Digital over what they claim are health impacts from nonstop mining noise. Their lawsuit details complaints ranging from chronic headaches to hearing damage, putting numbers to the human cost of 24/7 operations. This led to the passing of a Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT) rule in November 2024 requiring Bitcoin miners on the Energy Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid to register facilities within one working day, disclose locations, ownership, power demands, and renew registration annually by March 1. As Vilonia reaffirms its no-mining policy, crypto ventures will likely seek locations with fewer community and regulatory hurdles. Can Federal Rules Stop Crypto Mining Pollution From Spilling Across State Lines? The health and environmental fears of industrial Bitcoin mining have intensified after a peer-reviewed study in Nature Communications revealed that U.S. mining sites emit harmful fine particulate matter (PM2.5) across state lines, exposing 1.9 million Americans to elevated pollution levels. JUST IN: HARVARD-LED STUDY REVEALS BITCOIN MINING SPREADS FOSSIL-FUELED AIR POLLUTION ACROSS U.S. STATES, IMPACTING OVER 1.9M PEOPLE — Coinwaft (@coinwaft) April 14, 2025 Researchers led by Dr. Francesca Dominici analyzed the top 34 mining facilities from August 2022 to July 2023. They found that the facilities consumed 32.3 terawatt-hours of electricity, 33% more than the city of Los Angeles, with 85% derived from fossil fuels. Exposure hotspots span New York City, the Houston–Austin corridor, northeast Texas, and the Illinois–Kentucky border. In Metropolis, Illinois, residents inhale PM2.5 from a Kentucky power plant powering a North Carolina Bitcoin mine. This cross-border pollution exposes a regulatory blind spot since state agencies can’t curb emissions originating elsewhere. Authors recommend that the EPA enforce a “Good Neighbor” rule to compel upwind states to tighten power-plant controls. Legal and policy actions accompany these issues. In March 2024, Save Carbon County sued Stronghold Digital Mining under Pennsylvania’s constitutional right to a clean environment over waste-coal and tire-burning operations for electricity generation . Globally, the IMF reported in August 2024 that cryptocurrency mining consumes 2% of total electricity and proposed an 85% tax on mining power to raise $5.2 billion annually. How Tariff Policies Threaten U.S. Bitcoin Mining Expansion Environmental worries and local restrictions aren’t the only challenges facing the U.S. crypto mining sector. American firms, responsible for over 40% of the global hash rate as of 2024 , could face hefty tariffs on imported rigs. The tariffs that matter for BTC miners: 36% on Thailand, 32% on Indonesia, and 24% on Malaysia. @AsILayHodling , @bc1matt , and @ethan_vera break down how Trump’s tariffs will impact bitcoin miners on the latest @theminingpod . pic.twitter.com/tIb8AMyoT9 — The Mining Pod (@theMiningPod) April 5, 2025 Under President Trump’s trade policy, Bitcoin-mining machines from Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia may face up to 36% in tariffs, though a temporary 90-day reprieve has kept duties at 10% for now. Since the tariff announcement on April 2, a mining-firm index has dropped 12%, outpacing the S&P 500’s 8% decline. Companies are rushing to import equipment before the July deadline, while some, like Synteq Digital, scout overseas sites. Compass Mining remains committed to U.S. expansion but calls for swift tariff clarity. This uncertainty threatens billions in investment needed to sustain and grow domestic Bitcoin-mining infrastructure. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Will mining companies target poorer towns if banned elsewhere? Yes. With affluent towns like Vilonia rejecting mines, companies may target low-income or rural areas with weaker regulations, exacerbating energy poverty and environmental injustice. Would home-based mining solve noise and pollution fights? Small-scale mining may reduce noise/pollution concerns, but residential energy use could still strain local grids, leading to hidden costs or future crackdowns on household operations. The post Arkansas Town Blocks Crypto Mining as Pollution Fears Spur Nationwide Crackdown appeared first on Cryptonews .
cryptonews 2025-04-25 19:41
Scammers Use AI Deepfakes and Fake Trading Platforms Cryptocurrency-based fraud is booming in Canada, where scammers are increasingly using sophisticated AI tools like deepfakes to trick investors. The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) has warned that the trend makes it harder to identify scams as fake trading platforms and online impersonations are on the rise. CEO Grant Vingoe, speaking at the OSC’s annual conference, said that today the business environment is marked by higher rates of fraud, insider trading, and corruption. He attributed the rise in criminal activity to the decline of the traditional standards and ambiguity of the international geopolitics. Losses Near $640 Million in 2024 According to data from the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Canadians reported almost $640 million in losses due to fraud in 2024 alone. Vingoe noted that geopolitical uncertainty creates a climate where fraudsters can thrive, taking advantage of economic uncertainty and public fear. OSC enforcement executive vice-president Bonnie Lysyk mentioned the commission is going to prioritize “high-impact cases” and implement new strategies to tear down scams earlier, especially since the crypto space remains largely vulnerable to bogus schemes. Hiking Regulations for Crypto Platforms In response to rising threats, Canada began tightening cryptocurrency regulations in February 2023. The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) now require crypto trading platforms operating in Canada to make legally binding pre-registration commitments. Also, the CSA’s classification of some stablecoins as securities or derivatives has caused restrictions on stablecoin provision without advance approval to skyrocket compliance demands for crypto exchanges operating in Canada.
BTC Pulse 2025-04-25 19:04
Nasdaq, the operator of one of the premier U.S. stock exchanges and a crypto index, is advising the U.S. regulators to carefully focus on defining digital assets in four buckets that will clearly determine which agency acts as referee, according to a 23-page letter sent to the Securities and Exchange Commission's crypto task force. "While a stock by any other word would still be a stock, the existing market ecosystem can readily absorb digital assets by establishing the proper taxonomy and calibrating certain rules to reflect what is truly new and novel about digital assets," the letter argued in response to the invitation issued by the task force's chief , Commissioner Hester Peirce, to weigh in on future regulations. The four future categories of digital assets, in Nasdaq's view, should be: financial securities (tokens tied to assets that are securities under existing definitions, like stocks, bonds and exchange-traded funds (ETFS), which Nasdaq said should be treated just the same as their underlying assets); digital asset investment contracts (tokenized contracts that check all the securities boxes under a "clarified version" of the Supreme Court's so-called Howey test); digital asset commodities (meeting the U.S. definition of commodities) other digital assets (stuff that doesn't fall anywhere else and shouldn't have rules for securities or commodities imposed on it) The securities categories belong in the hands of the SEC, which will be working with its cousin agency, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, that will handle the commodities. Those agencies — presumably directed at some point by a new crypto law hatched by Congress — will figure out the precise border between their jurisdictions. The letter, signed by John Zecca , the company's chief regulator executive, argued that "digital assets that constitute financial securities must trade as they do today." Nasdaq also suggested that the two agencies should formulate a kind of crossover trading designation for platforms that can handle digital asset investment contracts, commodities and other types of assets under one roof. In the letter, Nasdaq underlined its digital-asset credibility, saying its "trading and clearing services, market and trading surveillance, and central securities depository technology support digital assets platforms on six continents." It contended that the regulators should consider imposing safety measures or further constraints on firms that want to handle investors' activity from top to bottom, which is the common approach of existing crypto firms. Read More: SEC 'Earnest' About Finding Workable Crypto Policy, Commissioners Say at Roundtable
CoinDesk 2025-04-25 18:00
The registration of NEAR ETF by Bitwise could significantly enhance institutional participation in altcoins, boosting market liquidity. The post Bitwise registers first NEAR ETF in US as institutional interest in altcoins grows appeared first on Crypto Briefing .
Crypto Briefing 2025-04-25 17:34
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has filed a joint motion with blockchain company Dragonchain to dismiss its ongoing lawsuit against the firm. The decision, submitted on Thursday , reflects a broader policy shift within the agency following the establishment of its Crypto Task Force earlier this year. The SEC originally launched legal action against Dragonchain in August 2022, accusing the firm and its affiliates of conducting an unregistered securities offering through their 2017 initial coin offering (ICO). Trump’s Reelection Triggers Softer SEC Stance on Crypto Regulation Under former Chair Gary Gensler, the SEC pursued aggressive enforcement actions against numerous crypto projects, asserting that many digital assets qualified as unregistered investment securities. However, with President Donald Trump’s reelection and Gensler’s departure, the SEC has softened its stance on cryptocurrency regulation. The newly formed Crypto Task Force has focused on clarifying which digital assets fall outside the agency’s jurisdiction, recently stating that most meme coins are not considered securities. NEW from me: SEC Drops Dragonchain Lawsuit in Latest Crypto Enforcement Reversal “We finally have the right to innovate without fear,” @dragonchain founder @j0j0r0 told me. Read the Friday edition of the @CryptoAmerica_ newsletter https://t.co/9iEMYj1oaD — Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) April 25, 2025 “In light of the foregoing, and in the exercise of its discretion and as a policy matter, the Commission believes the dismissal of this case is appropriate,” the SEC noted in its filing. The news of the dismissal sparked a sharp rally in Dragonchain’s native token, DRGN, which surged more than 100% in the past 24 hours, reaching $0.07898, according to CoinMarketCap . Crypto-Friendly Paul Atkins Sworn as SEC Chair As reported, Paul Atkins was sworn in as Chairman of the SEC on Monday, marking a leadership shift that is being welcomed by the digital asset industry. Under Atkins’ leadership, the SEC has already withdrawn or delayed several prominent cases against crypto firms. The agency dropped its lawsuits against Coinbase and Cumberland DRW earlier this year, and a separate investigation into Uniswap Labs closed in February without enforcement action. Last week, the agency also closed its investigation into CyberKongz , a prominent Ethereum-based NFT and gaming project, with no enforcement action taken. More recently, the SEC announced it would not pursue further legal action against Richard Schueler, better known as Richard Heart, the founder of Hex, PulseChain, and PulseX. SEC attorney Matthew Gulde informed New York District Court Judge Carol Bagley Amon that the regulator would not file an amended complaint following the court’s earlier dismissal of its case. Judge Amon had thrown out the SEC’s initial complaint on February 28, citing a lack of jurisdiction, as Heart’s activities were deemed not specifically directed at U.S. investors. The post SEC Moves to Dismiss Lawsuit Against Blockchain Firm Dragonchain, DRGN Surges 100% appeared first on Cryptonews .
cryptonews 2025-04-25 16:02
The post Ljubljana Becomes World’s Most Crypto-Friendly City, Beating Hong Kong, Singapore appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, has just hit a massive milestone by securing the top spot as the world’s most crypto-friendly city, according to the 2025 Crypto Cities Index by Multipolitan . Beating out the biggest cities like Hong Kong, Zurich, and Singapore, Ljubljana is quickly becoming a leader in using crypto every day. Let’s take a closer look at why this small city is winning big in the crypto world. Easy Access to Crypto in Ljubljana One of the key reasons Ljubljana has reached the top is its outstanding crypto infrastructure. The city has made it easy for locals and visitors to use digital currencies with over 150 crypto ATMs spread across town. Many local shops also accept crypto as payment, which makes it easy for people to use digital money every day, boosting the city’s reputation as a crypto-friendly hub. Local support has played a big role in Ljubljana’s rise as a crypto leader. The Blockchain Alliance Europe, for example, helped businesses and people bring together those who are interested in crypto. Local Platform Blocksquare’s Thriving Another reason Ljubljana is doing so well is because of local platforms like Blocksquare. It’s a platform that helps turn real estate into digital assets (tokens). Recently, it has partnered with Vera Capital for a $1 billion deal . This helps show the world that Ljubljana is serious about crypto and can be a global player in the digital world. Slovenia’s Crypto Wealth Slovenia, where Ljubljana is located, also ranks high in crypto wealth. On average, people in Slovenia have $240,500 in digital assets, more crypto than people in countries like the UK and the US. This shows that people in Slovenia trust and invest in crypto, adding to Ljubljana’s reputation as a crypto-friendly city. Slovenia to impose 25% on Crypto Gains However, there is a concern. The Slovenian government is planning to introduce a 25% tax on personal crypto gains starting in 2026. While this could bring in money for the government, some people worry it might stop new crypto ideas from coming to Slovenia. Despite all, Ljubljana is proving that a city’s size doesn’t matter, it’s the vision that counts in shaping the future of the crypto world. .article_register_shortcode { padding: 18px 24px; border-radius: 8px; display: flex; align-items: center; margin: 6px 0 22px; border: 1px solid #0052CC4D; background: linear-gradient(90deg, rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.1) 0%, rgba(0, 82, 204, 0.1) 100%); } .article_register_shortcode .media-body h5 { color: #000000; font-weight: 600; font-size: 20px; line-height: 22px; text-align:left; } .article_register_shortcode .media-body h5 span { color: #0052CC; } .article_register_shortcode .media-body p { font-weight: 400; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: #171717B2; margin-top: 4px; text-align:left; } .article_register_shortcode .media-body{ padding-right: 14px; } .article_register_shortcode .media-button a { float: right; } .article_register_shortcode .primary-button img{ vertical-align: middle; width: 20px; margin: 0; display: inline-block; } @media (min-width: 581px) and (max-width: 991px) { .article_register_shortcode .media-body p { margin-bottom: 0; } } @media (max-width: 580px) { .article_register_shortcode { display: block; padding: 20px; } .article_register_shortcode img { max-width: 50px; } .article_register_shortcode .media-body h5 { font-size: 16px; } .article_register_shortcode .media-body { margin-left: 0px; } .article_register_shortcode .media-body p { font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; margin-top: 6px; margin-bottom: 14px; } .article_register_shortcode .media-button a { float: unset; } .article_register_shortcode .secondary-button { margin-bottom: 0; } } Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World! Stay ahead with breaking news, expert analysis, and real-time updates on the latest trends in Bitcoin, altcoins, DeFi, NFTs, and more. .subscription-options li { display: none; } .research-report-subscribe{ background-color: #0052CC; padding: 12px 20px; border-radius: 8px; color: #fff; font-weight: 500; font-size: 14px; width: 96%; } .research-report-subscribe img{ vertical-align: sub; margin-right: 2px; } Subscribe to News var templateIds = "6"; var listOfSubscribed = []; function subscribed_popupmodal(template_id) { var templateId = '6'; getAllSubscriberCategoryList([templateId]); var subcribemodal = window.parent.document.getElementById('subscribe-modal-design'); if (subcribemodal) { var modalContent = ` Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World! Stay informed and gain the edge you need to navigate the crypto world. Select your subscription now Daily Get real-time crypto news, market insights, and blockchain updates. Weekly Stay updated with major trends, funding news, and price analysis. Monthly Receive a detailed report with market analysis and expert predictions. Subscribe Now `; subcribemodal.innerHTML = modalContent; } subscribe_unsubscribe_status(template_id); //getAllSubscriberCategoryList(template_id); } function toggleSubscription(subscription, template_id) { var subscriptionCheckbox = document.getElementById(subscription + '_' + template_id); var li = document.getElementById(subscription + 'Selected_' + template_id); if (subscriptionCheckbox.checked) { li.classList.add('active'); } else { li.classList.remove('active'); } } function getAllSubscriberCategoryList(getcategoryId) { jQuery.ajax({ url: 'https://coinpedia.org/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php', type: 'GET', data: { action: 'subscribe_api_ajax_request', apiurl: '/app/email_newsletter/list', }, success: function(response) { var result = JSON.parse(response.message); if (result.status === true) { var idstosubscribed = [] // Populate listOfSubscribed with subscribed category IDs result.message.forEach(listofcategory => { if (listofcategory.subscribe_status === 1) { if (!listOfSubscribed.includes(listofcategory._id)) { listOfSubscribed.push(listofcategory._id); } if (!idstosubscribed.includes(listofcategory.news_cp_category_row_id)) { idstosubscribed.push(listofcategory.news_cp_category_row_id); } } }); idstosubscribed.forEach(id => { var subscribeButton = document.getElementById('subscribe_' + id); var unsubscribeButton = document.getElementById('unsubscribe_' + id); if (subscribeButton && unsubscribeButton) { subscribeButton.style.display = 'none'; unsubscribeButton.style.display = 'block'; var showDownloadReport = document.getElementById('download_report'); if (showDownloadReport) { showDownloadReport.style.display = 'block'; } } }); } }, error: function(xhr, status, error) { console.error('Error:', error); } }); } function subscribe_unsubscribe_status(getcategoryId) { var elementTounsubscribe = parent.document.getElementById('unsubscribe_' + getcategoryId); var elementTosubscribe = parent.document.getElementById('subscribe_' + getcategoryId); jQuery.ajax({ url: 'https://coinpedia.org/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php', type: 'POST', data: { action: 'subscribe_api_ajax_request', apiurl: '/app/email_newsletter/list?category_row_id=' + getcategoryId, }, success: function(response) { var result = JSON.parse(response.message); if (result.status === true) { parent.jQuery('.skeliton-loader-block').hide(); var hasSubscribeStatusOne = false; result.message.forEach(subscribeStatus => { if (listOfSubscribed.includes(subscribeStatus._id) && subscribeStatus.subscribe_status === 1) { hasSubscribeStatusOne = true; } if (subscribeStatus.notification_type === 3) { parent.document.getElementById('monthlySelected_' + getcategoryId).style.display = 'block'; parent.document.getElementById('monthly_' + getcategoryId).setAttribute('data-id', subscribeStatus._id); if (subscribeStatus.subscribe_status === 1) { parent.document.getElementById('monthly_' + getcategoryId).checked = true; } } else if (subscribeStatus.notification_type === 2) { parent.document.getElementById('weeklySelected_' + getcategoryId).style.display = 'block'; parent.document.getElementById('weekly_' + getcategoryId).setAttribute('data-id', subscribeStatus._id); if (subscribeStatus.subscribe_status === 1) { parent.document.getElementById('weekly_' + getcategoryId).checked = true; } } else if (subscribeStatus.notification_type === 1) { parent.document.getElementById('dailySelected_' + getcategoryId).style.display = 'block'; parent.document.getElementById('daily_' + getcategoryId).setAttribute('data-id', subscribeStatus._id); if (subscribeStatus.subscribe_status === 1) { parent.document.getElementById('daily_' + getcategoryId).checked = true; } } if (subscribeStatus.subscribe_status === 1) { listOfSubscribed.push(subscribeStatus._id); } }); if (hasSubscribeStatusOne) { elementTosubscribe.style.display = 'none'; elementTounsubscribe.style.display = 'block'; } else { elementTosubscribe.style.display = 'block'; elementTounsubscribe.style.display = 'none'; } } }, error: function(xhr, status, error) { console.error('Error:', error); } }); } function logSelectedSubscriptions(categoryid) { var unsubscribemodal = document.querySelector('.unsubscribed-popup-modal .modal'); var subscribedmodal = document.querySelector('.subscribed-popup-modal .modal'); unsubscribemodal.innerHTML=''; subscribedmodal.innerHTML=''; var selectedSubscriptions = []; var storeCheckedId = []; var checkboxes = document.querySelectorAll('#subscription-options-' + categoryid + ' input[type="checkbox"]'); var errorMessage = document.getElementById('error-message-select'); // Use a Set to handle unique data-ids var uniqueSubscribedIds = new Set(listOfSubscribed); checkboxes.forEach(function(checkbox) { var dataId = parseInt(checkbox.getAttribute('data-id')); if (checkbox.checked) { selectedSubscriptions.push(checkbox.id); storeCheckedId.push(dataId); } else { uniqueSubscribedIds.delete(dataId); // Remove unchecked data-id } }); // Update listOfSubscribed with unique values listOfSubscribed = Array.from(uniqueSubscribedIds); var selectedSubscriptionsString = selectedSubscriptions.join(', '); var concatinateSubscribeId = [...new Set(storeCheckedId.concat(listOfSubscribed))]; var categoryData = { 'subscribed_categories': concatinateSubscribeId }; var requestSubscriberData = { action: 'handle_dynamic_api_request_with_headers', security: 'd18ca00de0', endpoint: '/app/email_newsletter/update_categories', token: '', data: categoryData }; jQuery.ajax({ url: 'https://coinpedia.org/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php', type: 'POST', data: requestSubscriberData, beforeSend: function(xhr) { xhr.setRequestHeader('X-Requested-With', 'XMLHttpRequest'); }, success: function(response) { try { response = response.data; if (storeCheckedId.length === 0) { var unsubcribedPopUpmodal = ` You’ve Unsubscribed Successfully We're sorry to see you go! Your subscription has been canceled. If you change your mind, you can re-subscribe anytime. Thank you for being part of our community! `; unsubscribemodal.innerHTML = unsubcribedPopUpmodal; document.querySelector('#subscribe-modal-design .modal').style.display = 'none'; unsubscribemodal.style.display = 'block'; unsubscribemodal.classList.remove('hide'); unsubscribemodal.classList.add('show'); document.getElementById('subscribe_' + categoryid).style.display = 'block'; document.getElementById('unsubscribe_' + categoryid).style.display = 'none'; var showDownloadReport = document.getElementById('download_report'); if (showDownloadReport) { showDownloadReport.style.display = 'none'; } } else { var subscribedPopupModal = ` Thank you for subscribing! Thank you for subscribing to our crypto and blockchain newsletter! You’ll now receive the latest news, insights, and updates straight to your inbox. Welcome to our community! `; let selectedSubscriptionsArray = selectedSubscriptionsString.split(','); let subscribedCategories = selectedSubscriptionsArray.map(subscription => subscription.split('_')[0]); let subscribedCategoriesString = subscribedCategories.join(', '); subscribedmodal.innerHTML = subscribedPopupModal; if (document.getElementById('selectidname')) { document.getElementById('selectidname').textContent = subscribedCategoriesString; } document.querySelector('#subscribe-modal-design .modal').style.display = 'none'; subscribedmodal.style.display = 'block'; subscribedmodal.classList.remove('hide'); subscribedmodal.classList.add('show'); document.getElementById('subscribe_' + categoryid).style.display = 'none'; document.getElementById('unsubscribe_' + categoryid).style.display = 'block'; var showDownloadReport = document.getElementById('download_report'); if (showDownloadReport) { showDownloadReport.style.display = 'block'; } } } catch (e) { console.error('Error parsing response:', e); } }, }); } function closeModal(template_id) { var modalId = template_id; var modal = document.querySelector('#' + modalId); // Using querySelector to find the modal if (modal) { modal.classList.add('hide'); modal.classList.remove('show'); setTimeout(function() { modal.style.display = 'none'; }, 500); } else { console.warn('Modal not found:', modalId); } } function closeunsubscribemodal() { var unsubscribemodal = document.querySelector('.unsubscribed-popup-modal .modal'); if (unsubscribemodal) { unsubscribemodal.classList.add('hide'); unsubscribemodal.classList.remove('show'); } setTimeout(function() { unsubscribemodal.style.display = 'none'; }, 500); } function closesubscribemodal() { var subscribedmodal = document.querySelector('.subscribed-popup-modal .modal'); setTimeout(function() { subscribedmodal.style.display = 'none'; }, 500); if (subscribedmodal) { subscribedmodal.classList.add('hide'); subscribedmodal.classList.remove('show'); } } function withoutLoginClicked(withoutlogin_id) { localStorage.setItem('subscribe_without_Login', 'true'); localStorage.setItem('subscribe_clicked_id', withoutlogin_id); } document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() { const subscribewithoutData = localStorage.getItem('subscribe_without_Login'); const subscribe_clicked_cat_id = localStorage.getItem('subscribe_clicked_id'); // Function to get cookies function getCookie(name) { let value = "; " + document.cookie; let parts = value.split("; " + name + "="); if (parts.length == 2) return parts.pop().split(";").shift(); } // Get user token from cookies const userToken = getCookie('user_token'); if (subscribewithoutData === 'true' && userToken) { // Call the modal function with the category ID subscribed_popupmodal(subscribe_clicked_cat_id); // Remove the flag and category ID from localStorage localStorage.removeItem('subscribe_without_Login'); localStorage.removeItem('subscribe_clicked_id'); } }); /************************** update susbcriber content **************************** */ function initializeSubscriptionButton() { var initialListItems = document.querySelectorAll('.subscription-options input[type="checkbox"]'); initialListItems.forEach(function(item) { console.log(item.checked, 'Initial Checkbox checked status'); }); var listItems = document.querySelectorAll('.subscription-options li'); if (listItems.length === 0) return; var anyActive = false; listItems.forEach(function(item) { var checkbox = item.querySelector('input[type="checkbox"]'); if (checkbox) { if (checkbox.checked) { item.classList.add('active'); anyActive = true; // Set anyActive to true } else { item.classList.remove('active'); // Remove 'active' class if checkbox is unchecked } } }); } function updateButtonText(anyActive) { var subscribeButtonSpan = document.querySelector('.subscribe-submit .changeBtnText'); if (subscribeButtonSpan) { if (anyActive) { subscribeButtonSpan.textContent = 'Subscribe Now'; } else { subscribeButtonSpan.textContent = 'Unsubscribe'; } } } function updateSubscriptionButton() { var listItems = document.querySelectorAll('.subscription-options li'); if (listItems.length === 0) return; var anyActive = false; listItems.forEach(function(item) { var checkbox = item.querySelector('input[type="checkbox"]'); if (checkbox) { if (checkbox.checked) { item.classList.add('active'); anyActive = true; // Set anyActive to true } else { item.classList.remove('active'); // Remove 'active' class if checkbox is unchecked } } }); // Update the button text based on whether any list item has the 'active' class updateButtonText(anyActive); } document.addEventListener('click', function(event) { var clickedItem = event.target.closest('.subscription-options li'); if (clickedItem) { var checkbox = clickedItem.querySelector('input[type="checkbox"]'); if (checkbox) { checkbox.checked = !checkbox.checked; updateSubscriptionButton(); } } });
coinpedia 2025-04-25 15:40
The White House has received over 10,000 public comments on its proposed artificial intelligence (AI) strategy.
BitDegree 2025-04-25 15:38
The world of cryptocurrencies, while offering exciting opportunities, also unfortunately attracts malicious actors. A recent case in the legal system of South Korea serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences faced by those who exploit public trust through deceptive schemes. This particular instance of Crypto Fraud South Korea involves a significant prison sentence handed down by an appeals court. Understanding the Scale of the Investment Scam At the heart of this case is a large-scale Investment Scam orchestrated by an individual identified as Hahm, in collaboration with a company executive. The scheme managed to illicitly raise a staggering 446.7 billion won, which translates to approximately $311 million USD at the time of the report. This was collected through a massive 140,000 individual transactions over a relatively short period, between February and July of 2023. The modus operandi involved nationwide investment seminars. These weren’t just casual meetups; they were carefully crafted events designed to build trust and persuade potential investors. The key promises made were highly enticing, yet ultimately fraudulent: Guaranteed Principal Protection: Investors were assured that their initial investment was safe and would be returned. High Daily Returns: Promises of daily returns ranging from 1% to 1.38% were made, figures far exceeding realistic, legitimate investment yields. To facilitate the scheme, investors were directed to use a custom payment application. This added a layer of technical legitimacy while centralizing the flow of funds into the scam’s control. The investments were tied to a specific cryptocurrency promoted by the perpetrators, adding a layer of complexity and perceived innovation to the traditional Ponzi-like structure. How Does This Relate to Illegal Deposit Taking? Under South Korean Crypto Regulation and broader financial statutes, raising funds from the general public requires specific authorization and registration. This is a crucial legal safeguard designed to protect citizens from unregulated and potentially fraudulent financial activities. The actions of Hahm and his accomplice directly violated these regulations, falling under the category of Illegal Deposit Taking . Illegal deposit taking typically involves soliciting funds from an unspecified number of people under the promise of future repayment with interest or other forms of return, without holding the necessary licenses from financial authorities. In this case, the promises of guaranteed principal and high daily returns fit this definition perfectly, regardless of whether the funds were collected in traditional currency or digital assets. The Evolving Interpretation of Cryptocurrency Law One of the most significant aspects of this case is the appellate court’s ruling regarding the nature of the assets involved. Initially, a lower court had acquitted Hahm of charges specifically related to receiving Bitcoin and Ethereum. This earlier decision seemingly drew a distinction between traditional money and virtual assets under existing laws, which were arguably not fully updated to address the nuances of cryptocurrencies. However, the appeals court overturned this part of the decision. It delivered a crucial clarification on Cryptocurrency Law , stating that transactions involving virtual assets can indeed constitute illegal deposit-taking activities, just as transactions involving traditional currency can. This ruling sets an important precedent, indicating that South Korean courts are increasingly applying existing financial regulations to the crypto space, closing potential loopholes that fraudsters might try to exploit by operating with digital assets. The appellate court’s perspective highlights the principle that the underlying nature of the activity (unlicensed fund-raising with promises of returns) is what matters, not just the specific form of currency or asset used in the transaction. What Are the Challenges and Actionable Insights for Investors? This case underscores several challenges within the crypto landscape: Identifying Legitimate Opportunities: The promise of high, guaranteed returns is a classic red flag for an Investment Scam . Legitimate investments, especially in volatile markets like crypto, inherently involve risk and rarely offer guaranteed daily returns. Complex Legal Landscape: As seen with the differing court rulings, the application of existing laws to new technologies like crypto can be complex and subject to interpretation, although courts are becoming clearer. Sophistication of Scams: Using custom apps and investment seminars adds a layer of apparent legitimacy that can deceive unsuspecting individuals. For potential investors, the actionable insights are clear: Due Diligence is Paramount: Verify Legitimacy: Check if the company or individual is registered with relevant financial authorities in South Korea or your local jurisdiction. Be Skeptical of High Returns: If an investment promises returns that seem too good to be true, they almost certainly are. Understand the Investment: Don’t invest in something you don’t fully understand. Research the underlying technology, the project team, and the market. Seek Independent Advice: Consult with a trusted financial advisor who is knowledgeable about cryptocurrencies before making significant investments. The Impact of South Korean Crypto Regulation The increased sentence from five to seven years reflects the severity with which the appellate court viewed this crime and its impact on 140,000 victims. It also signals a strengthening stance under South Korean Crypto Regulation against fraudulent activities. Regulatory bodies globally are grappling with how to effectively oversee the rapidly evolving crypto market while fostering innovation. Cases like this demonstrate the need for clear legal frameworks that protect investors while ensuring accountability for those who abuse the system. The ruling on Illegal Deposit Taking involving virtual assets is a key development, providing greater clarity for future cases and reinforcing the idea that crypto operations are not above the law. This stricter enforcement contributes to building a more secure environment for legitimate crypto activities in South Korea. Conclusion: A Warning Against Crypto Fraud South Korea The sentencing of Hahm to seven years in prison for orchestrating a massive Crypto Fraud South Korea serves as a powerful warning to potential fraudsters and a cautionary tale for investors. The case highlights the significant financial and human cost of such schemes and demonstrates the increasing willingness of courts to apply stringent financial laws, including those pertaining to Illegal Deposit Taking , to the cryptocurrency space. As Cryptocurrency Law continues to evolve, robust enforcement and investor education remain critical tools in combating sophisticated Investment Scam operations and strengthening South Korean Crypto Regulation . To learn more about the latest crypto market trends and regulatory developments, explore our articles on key developments shaping cryptocurrency law and South Korean crypto regulation .
Bitcoin World 2025-04-25 14:30
Big news from the world of cryptocurrency regulation ! The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is reportedly seeking to dismiss its long-standing case against blockchain technology firm Dragonchain. This move, targeting Dragonchain’s 2017 initial coin offering (ICO), marks a significant turn in one of the many crypto lawsuit battles the SEC has waged. For years, the SEC crypto enforcement actions have been a major point of tension in the digital asset space. The case against Dragonchain was a notable example, alleging that the company’s 2017 token sale constituted an unregistered securities offering. Understanding the SEC Dragonchain Case The original lawsuit against Dragonchain was filed by the SEC in August 2022. The core of the SEC’s claim revolved around the funds raised during Dragonchain’s 2017 token sale, which included both a private presale and a public ICO. The SEC alleged that Dragonchain, its founder Joe Roets, and affiliated entities raised approximately $16.5 million through this offering. The SEC contended that the DRGN tokens sold were investment contracts and thus securities, subject to federal registration requirements. Because Dragonchain had not registered the offering with the SEC, the regulator argued it violated securities laws. This legal challenge put significant pressure on Dragonchain and was closely watched by the wider crypto community, as it touched upon fundamental questions about how digital assets should be classified and regulated. Why the Shift? The SEC Drops the Dragonchain ICO Lawsuit While the exact reasons for the SEC’s decision to seek dismissal are not fully detailed in the initial report, such moves in complex litigation can stem from various factors. These might include: Settlement: The parties may have reached an agreement outside of court. Settlements often involve some form of penalty or undertaking from the defendant, but avoid a protracted legal battle and a definitive court ruling on the securities status of the token. Insufficient Evidence: As the case progressed, the SEC might have determined that its evidence was not strong enough to secure a favorable judgment at trial based on the specifics of the Dragonchain ICO. Strategic Reprioritization: The SEC has a vast portfolio of cases. They might decide to focus resources on other enforcement actions deemed more critical or likely to succeed. Legal Challenges: Dragonchain’s legal defense may have raised compelling arguments that presented significant hurdles for the SEC’s case. Regardless of the specific catalyst, the decision to drop the case against the Dragonchain ICO is a significant development, particularly given the SEC’s generally aggressive stance towards crypto offerings it deems unregistered securities. Implications for Dragonchain and the Crypto Landscape For Dragonchain, this news is undoubtedly a major relief. Facing a crypto lawsuit from a powerful regulator like the SEC is costly, time-consuming, and can severely impact a company’s operations, reputation, and ability to innovate. The dismissal removes a significant legal cloud that has hung over the company since 2022, potentially allowing them to focus more fully on their technology and business development. For the broader market, this development could be interpreted in several ways: Potential Precedent (with caution): While a dismissal is not the same as a court ruling in favor of Dragonchain, it avoids setting a formal legal precedent classifying the DRGN token as a security through litigation in this specific instance. However, it doesn’t automatically declassify all ICO tokens. Signals about Enforcement: Some may see this as a sign that the SEC’s enforcement efforts, while broad, are not insurmountable and can be challenged. It might encourage other projects facing similar lawsuits. Continued Uncertainty: Others will note that this dismissal doesn’t provide clear regulatory guidance. It resolves one specific case but doesn’t clarify the rules for future ICOs or the status of other digital assets under U.S. law. The path forward for cryptocurrency regulation remains complex. The SEC crypto approach continues to evolve, and each case, whether settled, dismissed, or litigated, adds a layer to the ongoing debate about how best to oversee this rapidly developing industry. What Does This SEC Dragonchain Decision Mean for the Future? The dismissal of the SEC Dragonchain case is a notable event, but it’s crucial not to overstate its impact on the entire regulatory landscape. It doesn’t signal a wholesale retreat by the SEC from its position that many tokens sold as part of fundraising efforts are securities. However, it does highlight the challenges the regulator faces in pursuing these cases, which often involve complex technological and legal arguments. The crypto industry continues to push for clearer rules and a legislative framework rather than regulation primarily through enforcement actions. Cases like the one against the Dragonchain ICO underscore the need for this clarity, as the current environment leaves many projects operating under a cloud of legal uncertainty. Ultimately, while Dragonchain can breathe a sigh of relief, the larger conversation about cryptocurrency regulation in the U.S. is far from over. The outcome of other high-profile crypto lawsuit cases and potential legislative action will likely play a more significant role in shaping the future regulatory environment. This dismissal is a positive development for Dragonchain and offers a moment of optimism for parts of the crypto community facing regulatory challenges, but the path to comprehensive and clear regulation remains long. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our articles on key developments shaping cryptocurrency regulation and legal challenges .
Bitcoin World 2025-04-25 14:10
