Crypto Briefs — Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Cryptocurrency markets and policy remain in flux as regulatory clarity takes center stage. Senator Lummis signaled that the CLARITY Act could advance through Congress with Democratic compromise, while former President Trump continues advocating for the legislation despite holding approximately $1 billion in crypto assets—a development raising potential conflicts of interest. Separately, Circle's $400 million acquisition of cross-border payments firm Tazapay aims to strengthen stablecoin infrastructure, and USDC has surpassed TETHER to capture 67% of adjusted stablecoin payment volume. These developments reflect ongoing efforts to integrate cryptocurrencies into traditional financial systems while addressing regulatory uncertainty.
Lummis Says Clarity Act Can Pass With Democratic Compromise
Senator Cynthia Lummis stated that the Clarity Act, cryptocurrency legislation, can advance through Congress but requires further compromise from Democrats. Lummis, a pro-crypto senator, indicated willingness to negotiate with the opposing party to secure passage of the bill.
Goldman Sachs: AI spending now rivals Fed influence on rates
Goldman Sachs analysis suggests artificial intelligence investment has grown influential enough to shape interest rates alongside or potentially beyond Federal Reserve policy. The shift represents changing economic power dynamics that could diminish the Fed's traditional monetary-policy authority, according to the bank's assessment.
Metaplanet shareholders seek to unwind 273M-share executive windfall
Metaplanet's equity issuances to fund Bitcoin purchases expanded an executive options pool from 46 million to 319 million shares, triggering shareholder demands for cancellation of roughly 273 million shares. The Tokyo-listed company's compensation structure has become a point of contention as its Bitcoin holdings grew, with shareholders seeking to reverse what they view as an unintended executive windfall.
Circle to Acquire Tazapay for $400M to Expand Stablecoin Infrastructure
Circle has agreed to purchase cross-border payments firm Tazapay for $400 million, the company announced. The acquisition aims to provide Circle with regulated infrastructure for connecting stablecoins to traditional banking systems, addressing the final-mile challenge of converting digital assets into local currency at endpoints.
Trump Advances CLARITY Act Push Amid $1B Crypto Holdings
Former President Trump is advocating for Congress to pass the CLARITY Act, which aims to establish regulatory clarity for cryptocurrency markets, while holding approximately $1 billion in crypto assets. The dual role of promoting legislation while maintaining significant crypto holdings raises ethical questions about potential conflicts of interest.
Robinhood Chain explores credit markets for PONS token holders
Robinhood Chain is considering credit market expansion for holders of its $PONS token, which could improve liquidity but may increase volatility and trigger forced liquidations. The initiative aims to unlock additional utility for the token while introducing counterparty and market risks.
Bybit Launches FX Perpetual Contracts for EUR, GBP, USD Pairs
Bybit has introduced USDT-settled perpetual contracts for foreign exchange pairs, with initial offerings in EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY. The expansion adds traditional forex exposure to the exchange's derivatives platform, broadening its product suite beyond cryptocurrency perpetuals.
Bitcoin Miner Depletes Treasury BTC for Compute Without Recovery
An unnamed Bitcoin miner spent millions in BTC to purchase computing capacity, with cloud customers generating 74% of August's production increase. However, newly mined coins are not returning to the miner's treasury, only partially offsetting July's holdings decline.
AI-Driven Bug Hunting Targets Bitcoin Layer-2 Infrastructure
Recent security incidents across Coldcard, Lightning, and Liquid reveal a shift in vulnerability discovery as AI tools make finding bugs in Bitcoin's scaling layers economically viable. The trend highlights how automation is changing the risk profile of layer-2 solutions and their underlying protocols, raising questions about infrastructure resilience as AI adoption accelerates.
Bitcoin Rally Has Room to Run as Volatility Shorts Unwind
Two Prime CEO Alexander Blume said bitcoin's rebound is being driven by subdued funding rates and continued call selling rather than excessive speculation, suggesting further upside potential. Blume attributed the dynamics to short unwinding in volatility markets, indicating the rally may not yet be overextended.
Fed's Warsh Signals Potential Rate Hike Amid Inflation
Federal Reserve official Christopher Warsh has signaled concern over inflation and a potential shift toward tighter monetary policy, according to Crypto Briefing. The remarks reduce near-term expectations for rate cuts and could impact asset markets including cryptocurrencies, which are sensitive to Fed policy shifts.
Ethereum stalls below $2,500 as momentum weakens
Ethereum traded below $2,500 on September 8 amid weak short-term momentum, with the ADX indicator falling to 11, signaling low directional conviction. Uncertainty over Federal Reserve policy decisions kept ETH confined to a narrow trading range.
Ethereum Foundation debates staking yields vs. ETH holder dilution
Ethereum Foundation Protocol is advocating for broader discussion on issuance policy, caught between maintaining high staking rewards for validators and controlling dilution for unstaked ETH holders. The tension reflects a fundamental tradeoff in monetary policy: higher validator incentives increase network security but dilute the token supply proportionally for non-stakers.
Kraken Seeks Final Judgment Against Mazars Over $22M Award
Kraken is pursuing a final Delaware court judgment against former auditor Mazars following a $22 million arbitration award. Kraken claims Mazars' sudden resignation during increased U.S. regulatory scrutiny caused material financial and operational damage to the exchange.
Polymarket Enables Instant Bitcoin Deposits via Lightning Network
Polymarket has activated instant self-custodial Bitcoin deposits through the Lightning Network using Spark technology. The integration allows users to deposit Bitcoin directly onto the prediction market platform without intermediaries, reducing settlement times and fees associated with on-chain transactions.
SpaceX Nasdaq-100 Inclusion Channels $4.3B Passive Flows to Bitcoin Holder
SpaceX's addition to the Nasdaq-100 index triggered approximately $4.3 billion in passive inflows to the aerospace company, which holds 18,712 BTC on its balance sheet. The inclusion creates rules-based institutional demand for Bitcoin through corporate treasuries, as passive index funds automatically rebalance to include the new constituent.
USDC Captures 67% Stablecoin Payment Share as Volume Hits $1.79T
USDC has surpassed TETHER (USDT) to represent approximately 67% of adjusted stablecoin transaction volume, according to Visa data cited by CCN. Stablecoin payments reached a record $1.79 trillion, with Base and Solana networks driving adoption of faster, lower-cost payment channels.
Malone Lam Admits Role in $245M Crypto Crime Ring
Malone Lam admitted to joining a RICO conspiracy that U.S. prosecutors linked to over $245 million in cryptocurrency thefts. The admission follows charges connecting Lam to organized criminal activity targeting digital assets.
Ethereum Pulls Back 1% After 12% Weekly Surge Near Resistance
Ethereum declined approximately 1% following a 12% gain over the past week, as traders took profits near a key resistance level. The pullback reflects typical profit-taking behavior after a significant rally.
Plattsburgh considers 12-month moratorium on crypto mining
Plattsburgh is evaluating a one-year ban on new cryptocurrency mining operations, artificial intelligence facilities, and data centers consuming 300 kilowatts or more. The measure addresses local concerns over energy demand and infrastructure strain from high-power computing activities.
XRP Community Awaits CLARITY Act Vote on September 15
The XRP community is anticipating a September 15 vote on the CLARITY Act, which could clarify regulatory treatment of digital assets. The legislation's passage would potentially resolve longstanding regulatory ambiguity around cryptocurrencies including XRP, though the article frames uncertainty around whether such expectations are justified.
DeFi Development raises $11M for Solana token purchases
DeFi Development closed an $11 million preferred stock offering with a 13% initial dividend rate to fund additional SOL acquisitions. The financing mechanism and stated use of proceeds indicate the company's strategy to increase its Solana holdings.
Block seeks OCC approval for national trust bank to custody Bitcoin, stablecoins
Block, the payments company founded by Jack Dorsey, has applied to the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) for approval to establish a national trust bank offering custody services for Bitcoin and stablecoins. The move aims to establish regulatory clarity and institutional trust in digital asset custody.
CleanSpark mined 593 BTC in August as hashprice recovered
Bitcoin miner CleanSpark produced 593 BTC in August while selling 821 BTC during the period, according to the company's operational update. The miner did not disclose power and operating costs, preventing independent verification of profitability for the month.
Tether Freezes $39.3M USDT Linked to Xinbi Guarantee
Tether froze approximately $39.3 million in USDT across 10 Tron addresses connected to Xinbi Guarantee, a Chinese-language marketplace that blockchain investigators have associated with billions in crypto transactions. The freeze was identified by MistTrack, an onchain tracing platform, as part of apparent enforcement against illicit or high-risk activity.
Upbit Delist HEMI Following 124.5M Token Exploit
South Korean exchange Upbit delisted HEMI trading after an exploit drained 124.5 million unclaimed tokens from a legacy smart contract. Simultaneously, Upbit listed two new tokens: CP and USELESS. The exploit prompted the immediate suspension of HEMI trading on the platform.
UAE Retailers Pilot DDSC Stablecoin Payments at POS Terminals
DDSC and Network International launched the UAE's first in-store pilot enabling customers to spend the AED-backed, Central Bank-licensed DDSC stablecoin through existing point-of-sale terminals at select retailers. The pilot integrates the stablecoin into mainstream retail infrastructure without requiring new hardware, marking a step toward regulated digital-currency adoption in merchant payments.
Bitcoin Capitulation Zone at $38.4K Shows Signs of Shift
CryptoPotato reports that Bitcoin's historically reliable capitulation zone near $38,400 may be losing predictive power for identifying cycle bottoms. The analysis suggests Bitcoin's relationship with the Balanced Price metric is changing, potentially signaling a fundamental shift in how deep-cycle lows form.
Wintermute: Bitcoin Bottoms Becoming Less Severe Than Prior Cycles
Wintermute analysis indicates Bitcoin is spending less time at extreme capitulation lows, marking a potential shift in market maturity compared to earlier cycles. The observation suggests improved market structure and reduced duration of panic-driven selloffs during drawdowns.
XRP Rebounds as Bitcoin Reclaims $79K Level
Bitcoin recovered to above $79,000 while XRP posted a swift rebound in market activity over the past 24 hours. Alternative assets including VVV, LIT, ATOM, and DOT also gained, with VVV leading gainers at over 50% in the same period.
Strive Issues $12M in Preferred Shares to Fund Bitcoin Purchases
Strive issued nearly one million preferred shares, adding $12 million to its dividend obligations while maintaining a 19-month cash coverage ratio. At the current 13% dividend rate, the arrangement implies approximately $130 million in annual payouts, according to CryptoSlate.
XRP ETFs gain $2M while Bitcoin, Ether funds see outflows
XRP exchange-traded funds attracted nearly $2 million in inflows on Tuesday, bucking a broader trend of outflows from Bitcoin, Ether, Solana, and Hyperliquid funds. Grayscale's products accounted for the entirety of outflows in both Bitcoin and Ether ETFs.
XRP ETFs Added to $11.4M Schwab Collateral Pool
XRP exchange-traded funds have been added to Charles Schwab's collateral pool, with $11.39 million in ETF shares now securing Wall Street repurchase agreements. The disclosure shows nearly $2 million in new XRP ETF holdings being mobilized as collateral, indicating growing institutional integration of XRP products in repo markets.
BitMart Hires Alvarez & Marsal for Financial and Withdrawal Review
Cryptocurrency exchange BitMart has appointed advisory firm Alvarez & Marsal to conduct a comprehensive review of its assets and withdrawal processes. The exchange committed to delivering an action plan within three weeks, signaling steps toward transparency following operational scrutiny.
India FIU Issues Notices to 15 Crypto Platforms Over AML Non-Compliance
India's Financial Intelligence Unit has issued non-compliance notices to 15 cryptocurrency platforms including Weex, Blofin, and WOO X, ordering the takedown of their apps and URLs for operating without meeting anti-money laundering requirements. The action represents heightened regulatory enforcement in India targeting crypto service providers deemed to be circumventing the country's financial compliance framework.
FBI Traces Bitcoin to Florida Brothers in Darknet Opioid Case
The FBI traced Bitcoin payments linking two Florida brothers to an alleged darknet opioid network connected with 12 overdose deaths. The case demonstrates law enforcement's ability to track cryptocurrency transactions in criminal investigations, though specific details of the investigation and charges remain limited in the source account.
Bitcoin Core Lightning Docker Bug Exposes Node Operators
A vulnerability in Bitcoin Core Lightning Docker images allowed containers to report version v26.06.7 while lacking critical security fixes, leaving node operators potentially exposed. The issue affected multiple image tags and prompted recommendations for digest verification checks ahead of planned public disclosure.
Germany Plans 25% Flat Tax on Crypto Gains Starting 2028
Germany's Federal Ministry of Finance is preparing a 25% flat tax on cryptocurrency gains effective 2028, according to Der Spiegel reporting. The levy would eliminate Germany's current exemption for digital assets held over one year, marking a significant shift in the country's tax treatment of crypto holdings.
Altcoin Rally Shows Concentration in Few Tokens, Not Broad Strength
A CryptoPotato analysis of recent market data suggests that apparent altcoin outperformance against Bitcoin is concentrated in a small number of tokens rather than reflecting sector-wide gains. The findings challenge the narrative of a sustained altcoin rally and indicate broader market weakness outside top performers.
Buterin Outlines Ethereum's Multi-Year Transition to 'Lean' Architecture
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has detailed plans for a comprehensive architectural overhaul toward what he calls 'Lean Ethereum' over a multi-year timeline. The initiative represents a significant shift in the network's long-term development roadmap, though specific technical targets and implementation details were not fully enumerated in the source.
Ctrl Wallet shuts down after security exploit, sets Aug. 3 deadline
Ctrl Wallet announced permanent shutdown of services following a security exploit, giving users until August 3 to withdraw their crypto assets before core wallet functions go offline. The wallet published the notice via blog post, urging customers to move funds ahead of the deadline.
Bitcoin S&P 500 Correlation Hits Decade Low Despite Daily Divergence
Bitcoin's correlation with the S&P 500 has reached its lowest level in a decade according to Bitwise analysis, though daily data shows conflicting signals with positive return correlation observed in a FRED proxy. Portfolio performance varies depending on the time period examined, suggesting correlation measures differ across lookback windows and data granularity.
Singaporean Man Pleads Guilty in $245M Crypto Fraud Case
Malone Lam, 22, pleaded guilty to leading a fraud ring that stole approximately 4,100 bitcoin through online scams and home invasions, totaling $245 million. The Miami-based defendant coordinated fraudulent schemes targeting cryptocurrency holders across multiple attack vectors.
Iran eases currency controls to permit crypto-funded imports
Iran has relaxed currency restrictions to allow exporters to use overseas earnings to fund imports directly through cryptocurrency, bypassing the official foreign-exchange system, according to the Financial Times. The measure permits traders to convert earnings into crypto and use those holdings to settle import transactions, effectively creating an alternative channel around Iran's tightly controlled currency regime.
Mexico Seizes 300 Crypto Mining Rigs at Hydroelectric Dam
Mexican authorities seized approximately 300 cryptocurrency mining rigs that were illegally connected to a hydroelectric dam's power supply. Forensic accountants are investigating the ownership and funding of the hardware, with money laundering under consideration as a potential motive for the operation.
Cross-chain bridges remain crypto's biggest security vulnerability
Cross-chain bridges enable value transfer between blockchains but have suffered billions in losses to hackers, making them the most compromised crypto infrastructure. The article explains how bridges work and examines why they remain persistent targets despite their critical role in the multi-chain ecosystem.
BonkDAO loses $20M treasury to governance attack via token acquisition
On July 6, 2026, an attacker spent approximately $4 million to acquire BONK tokens, secured near-total voting control across seven wallets, and executed a treasury withdrawal of $20 million without exploiting any code vulnerability. The incident exemplifies a governance attack where token-weighted voting mechanisms prove susceptible to well-capitalized actors who can rapidly accumulate sufficient stake to pass resolutions.
EU Parliament Calls for DeFi and NFT Review Under MiCA
The European Parliament has approved a policy position requesting a review of whether decentralized finance, staking, crypto lending, borrowing, and NFTs should be more explicitly covered by the EU's Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA). The move signals potential regulatory expansion into asset classes and financial activities that may currently fall outside MiCA's existing scope.
TRXS ETF launches, offering TRON staking exposure to US investors
A new TRXS ETF has launched providing U.S. brokerage access to TRON (TRX) with integrated staking rewards, according to 99Bitcoins. The launch occurs as TRON expands its role in stablecoin infrastructure.
Silvergate's Federal Bank Status Raises Questions on Crypto Regulatory Control
CryptoSlate examines whether federal banking status protects cryptocurrency firms from regulatory pressure or instead increases government oversight. The analysis centers on Alan Lane's new Silvergate account and broader implications for crypto-focused trust banks operating under federal supervision versus state charter alternatives.
Bitcoin rises to $79,700 amid geopolitical tensions, oil surge
Bitcoin climbed to $79,700 as Brent crude exceeded $100 per barrel and European equity indices fell following Iran strikes, suggesting crypto is correlating more closely with traditional safe-haven assets like gold than with equity markets.
Bitcoin Price Consolidates Below Key Resistance After Recent Selloff
Bitcoin is recovering from a recent sell-off but remains capped beneath a major resistance cluster that has limited relief rallies since June. CryptoPotato technical analysis indicates short-term momentum has improved, with the next move at a decisive level potentially determining whether the recovery develops into a broader trend reversal.
NEAR Governance Eliminates Developer Gas Rebate via HSP-027
NEAR's House of Stake governance body passed proposal HSP-027 to eliminate the protocol's developer gas rebate program, effective immediately. Under the change, all network gas fees will be burned rather than partially rebated to smart-contract developers, altering NEAR's fee distribution model.
Corn Launches Members Club After Closing Bitcoin L2 Network
Corn has pivoted from operating a Bitcoin layer-2 network to launching a private members club for digital asset holders, following the L2's closure. The shift coincides with a third investment from Polychain Capital, bringing Corn's total funding to $19 million.
UK National Crime Agency ranks crypto third-highest economic crime priority
The UK National Crime Agency has identified cryptocurrency as its third-highest economic crime priority, according to Crypto Briefing. The ranking underscores growing regulatory focus on digital-asset abuse and signals the need for enhanced frameworks and intelligence capabilities to address evolving threats in the sector.
US Bank tests USBDC stablecoin for cross-border payments on Stellar
US Bank is piloting a stablecoin called USBDC for cross-border payments on the Stellar blockchain, according to Crypto Briefing. The test aims to enable 24/7 payment settlement and streamline international financial operations using distributed ledger technology.
Strive Surpasses Metaplanet in Bitcoin Treasury Market Cap
Strive has exceeded Metaplanet's Bitcoin treasury market capitalization despite holding significantly fewer coins, according to Crypto Briefing. The comparison highlights market preference for aggressive growth strategies and innovative financing approaches over raw asset accumulation alone.
Aave Launches MCP Server for AI Agent Protocol Access
Aave has released a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server enabling AI agents to access V3 and V4 protocol data and prepare transactions. The tool aims to streamline AI-driven DeFi operations and accelerate adoption of AI agents in decentralized finance.
Tether's Former CIO Heathcote Plans to Sell Equity Stake
Richard Heathcote, who served as Tether Holdings' chief investment officer until earlier this year, is planning to sell a portion of his equity stake in the stablecoin issuer, according to Bloomberg sources. Heathcote has engaged investment bank PJT Partners to facilitate the sale of his holding in Tether, the world's largest stablecoin operator by market capitalization.
Bitcoin dominance falls to one-month low amid altcoin rally
Bitcoin's market dominance dropped to 54%, down from 58.12%, while the altcoin category outside Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins climbed to 24.68% of total crypto market cap from 19.39%, according to CoinGecko data. Bitcoin dipped below $58,000 last week before recovering, coinciding with the shift in dominance metrics.
Bitcoin tests $64K as labor data weakens Fed rate-hike odds
Bitcoin climbed above $60,000 following June payroll data showing 57,000 jobs added and unemployment rising to 4.2%, which pushed September Fed-hike odds down to 54% from 67%. The dollar index declined 0.56% to 100.83 as market participants reduced bets on near-term rate increases, with Bitcoin attempting to breach $64,000 as geopolitical tensions ease.
Vanguard Hires Digital Assets Leader Amid Crypto Strategy Shift
Vanguard is recruiting a digital assets leader to oversee tokenization, stablecoins, and blockchain initiatives, signaling a strategic reassessment of its cryptocurrency engagement. The role reflects the asset management giant's growing focus on emerging digital-asset infrastructure and institutional adoption pathways.
MetaDAO Launches Onchain Treasury for Post-Sale Funding
MetaDAO has introduced an onchain treasury model designed to increase investor control and transparency following its token sale. The structure aims to reduce financial mismanagement risks and support sustainable growth through decentralized fund management.
Zcash ETF Launch Cited as Stabilizing Force as Bitcoin Trades Near $79K
Bitcoin traded near $79,000 as a newly launched Zcash ETF supported cryptocurrency sentiment, according to 99Bitcoins. The rally faced headwinds from Federal Reserve rate-hike expectations and oil prices approaching $100 per barrel, which could pressure risk assets including cryptocurrencies.
Bitcoin Faces Profit-Taking Resistance at $82K Level
Bitcoin supply in profit has reached 71%, approaching Bitfinex's historical mean of 74.7%, while ETF inflows support current prices. Traders are monitoring the $82,000 level as a potential resistance point where profit-taking selling pressure may emerge.
Luxor: 235 EH/s Bitcoin Mining Capacity Remains Idle
Luxor estimates approximately 235 exahashes per second of Bitcoin mining capacity is currently offline, representing nearly one-fifth of total network hashrate. The firm warns that reactivating idle miners as Texas's summer curtailment window ends could create a margin trap for operators, complicating traditional capitulation signals.
Geely Sweden CEO joins Concordium Foundation board
Concordium Foundation appointed Per Ansgar, CEO of Geely Sweden Holdings AB, to its board. The move strengthens ties between the blockchain platform and Geely group while advancing Concordium's focus on verified AI agents and digital payments through deepened partnership on autonomous transactions.
Coinbase Expands Morpho-Powered USDC Lending to Brazil
Coinbase launched its Morpho-powered DeFi Earn product for eligible Brazilian customers on September 9, allowing users to earn market-based returns on USDC deposits without fixed lock-up periods. The expansion marks Coinbase's extension of its lending infrastructure into Latin America through the Morpho protocol integration.
Bitcoin Stalls Near $80K as Momentum Cools at Resistance
Bitcoin is trading near $79,000 after recovering from $60,000, but price action indicates weakening momentum at a major resistance level. On-chain metrics show adjusted SOPR (Spent Output Profit Ratio) has rebounded above 1, suggesting improving profitability for holders, though the short-term price structure requires a breakout to confirm sustained recovery.
Bitcoin Collateral Loans Available But Face Cross-Chain Complications
Bitcoin holders can borrow cash against their BTC holdings without selling, preserving price exposure while accessing liquidity. However, most blockchain lending applications operate on Ethereum, creating friction for Bitcoin-based collateral across different networks.
Harmony ONE Now Trading on Kraken Exchange
Kraken announced that Harmony ONE (ONE) is now available for trading on its platform as of September 9, 2026. The listing includes funding and trading capabilities for the token.
Hyperliquid Policy Group Challenges CME Lawsuit Against CFTC
The Hyperliquid Policy Center filed arguments with a federal court to dismiss CME Group's lawsuit against the CFTC, contending the derivatives exchange lacks legal standing and cannot invoke the cited Commodity Exchange Act provisions. The filing represents intervention in an ongoing regulatory dispute involving CME's challenge to CFTC authority.
Fintech Expert: Collateral Use, Not Volume, Signals Real Bank Bitcoin Adoption
Fintech veteran Wojciech Kaszycki outlined three metrics to gauge genuine institutional bank adoption of Bitcoin: client custody balances, credit-funded spot trades, and use as loan collateral. The assessment follows Standard Chartered's launch of deliverable Bitcoin and Ethereum trading for eligible UAE institutions, suggesting custodial and collateral frameworks are becoming infrastructure benchmarks for traditional finance entry.
RedStone Prices $170M FalconX Credit Vault on Three Chains
RedStone has launched price feeds for a FalconX private-credit vault with over $170 million in exposure across Monad, Plume, and MegaETH blockchains. The integration enables real-time pricing for the vault's assets on these three chains.
Speculative Crypto ETFs Face Regulatory Headwinds
Crypto Briefing reports that speculative exchange-traded funds are proliferating despite increased regulatory scrutiny, potentially reshaping market dynamics. The trend poses challenges for ETF issuers who must navigate compliance requirements or risk operational viability as regulators scrutinize shorter-term trading vehicles.
Tema Launches Prediction Markets ETF With 15% in Kalshi, Polymarket
Tema has launched an exchange-traded fund focused on prediction markets, allocating 15% of holdings to private companies Kalshi and Polymarket. The ETF aims to provide retail investors with easier access to the prediction markets sector, potentially influencing investment patterns and market structure in the space.
Block Files for OCC Charter to Launch Bitcoin Custody Bank
Block has applied for an Office of the Comptroller of the Currency charter to establish Builders Bank, a custody institution for bitcoin and stablecoins that would operate under federal supervision without accepting deposits or originating loans. The application represents Block's formal entry into regulated digital-asset banking and requires OCC approval to proceed.
Bitcoin retreats from $79.7K overnight gain as altcoins decline
Bitcoin rallied to $79,701.36 overnight but surrendered the advance by midday New York time, finishing flat over 24 hours. Ninety-three of 123 major non-stablecoin tokens traded lower. Zcash surged 56.3% weekly after DCG and Grayscale executed a swap involving 85,705 ZEC valued at roughly $100 million.
Lido's Ethereum Staking Market Share Shrinks Despite Growth
Lido captured only 5.7% of Ethereum staking growth in the first half of 2024, signaling a declining market share in the institutional staking sector. The analysis cites a negative NEST budget as evidence that staking deposits alone cannot fund protocol development, implying pressure on Lido's economics and competitive position.
U.S. Treasury Sanctions Xinbi Guarantee for Crypto-Enabled Scam Hub
The U.S. Treasury has sanctioned Xinbi Guarantee, a Chinese-language platform accused of facilitating cryptocurrency transactions for criminal networks and operating as a widespread cyber-scam hub. The action targets the platform's role in enabling financial crime through digital assets.
PayPal Launches PYUSDx Platform for Custom Stablecoin Creation
PayPal has introduced PYUSDx, a platform enabling custom stablecoin creation designed to streamline issuance and compliance processes. The platform aims to increase demand for PYUSD by lowering barriers to stablecoin deployment and potentially reshaping the competitive stablecoin landscape.
Kalshi Files to Launch Gold and Silver Perpetual Futures
Kalshi has filed with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission to list dollar-settled perpetual futures contracts for gold and silver, according to September 9 regulatory filings. The expansion would add two commodity-linked products to Kalshi's existing lineup of 18 cryptocurrency perpetual contracts available to eligible American traders.
LAPTOP Coin Surges Then Crashes After Troll Origins Revealed
The LAPTOP cryptocurrency experienced rapid price volatility following the discovery of troll-related origins, according to Crypto Briefing. The incident underscores risks in politically-driven crypto assets and has drawn regulatory scrutiny over potential market manipulation, highlighting ongoing concerns about meme coin stability.
Ledger Consolidates Technology and Security Leadership
Ledger has consolidated its technology and security oversight functions amid growing concerns about AI-driven cyber threats. The hardware wallet manufacturer emphasized the need for unified defenses against evolving attack vectors in the cryptocurrency security landscape.
EIP-8288 proposes frame type for post-quantum signatures
EIP-8288 introduces a framework for post-quantum signatures and STARK aggregation on Ethereum, according to Crypto Briefing. The proposal aims to reduce gas costs and improve privacy while making post-quantum cryptographic security economically feasible for the network.
Ethereum at Crossroads as Exchange Reserves Decline Amid Institutional Interest
Ethereum faces a critical technical juncture with bulls citing reduced ETH exchange reserves and institutional demand as support for a potential rally toward $3,000, while bearish scenarios point to a possible decline to $2,000. The shrinking on-exchange supply typically indicates holders moving assets to self-custody, a metric often associated with accumulation phases.
Tether's $45M crackdown pushes scam operators toward USDD
Tether froze $45 million in Xinbi-linked assets tied to Southeast Asian scam compounds, prompting the sanctioned marketplace to shift toward USDD, a decentralized stablecoin. Bitrace identified over $45 million in targeted holdings associated with Xinbi, illustrating how regulatory pressure on centralized stablecoins is redirecting illicit activity to alternatives with weaker freeze capabilities.
Secret Service Freezes $52.8M in Crypto Linked to Telegram Scam Bazaar
U.S. Secret Service froze $52.8 million in cryptocurrency connected to an illicit Telegram marketplace that facilitated global scams, with blockchain analysis firm Elliptic tracing the funds and the Treasury imposing sanctions. The operator Xinbi, which processed $24 billion through the platform, disputed the asset freeze as unfair.
Canaan Posts $97M Loss, Sells Crypto to Fund Share Buyback
Bitcoin miner manufacturer Canaan reported a loss of $97 million with revenue falling below its $35 million guidance floor. The company sold cryptocurrency holdings to partially fund its share buyback program, signaling financial strain amid difficult market conditions for hardware makers.
ConsenSys to Spin Off MetaMask as Standalone Company
ConsenSys Software will rebrand as MetaMask, with Ethereum co-founder Joe Lubin remaining as chairman and CEO, marking a structural separation of the wallet business. The company did not disclose plans regarding a potential IPO, leaving its public market ambitions undecided.
Tether launches $400M private credit fund with Fasanara
Tether, the USDT stablecoin issuer, is partnering with Fasanara Capital to establish a $400 million private credit fund. Under the arrangement, Tether will help identify lending opportunities and provide stablecoin payment infrastructure for Fasanara's credit network, expanding the issuer's footprint beyond stablecoin issuance into alternative credit markets.
U.S. Backs $300M Quantum Computing Push as Crypto Prepares
The U.S. government is investing $300 million in quantum hardware development, with industry timelines pointing to fault-tolerant quantum computers arriving around 2029—the same window crypto projects are targeting for migration strategies to counter quantum threats. Bitcoin and Ethereum are among digital assets preparing cryptographic upgrades to defend against potential quantum decryption capabilities.
21Shares addresses misconceptions about XRP, Ripple connection
21Shares, a $11 billion asset manager, has publicly addressed persistent claims about XRP and its relationship to Ripple. The firm weighed in on key misconceptions surrounding the token, though the specific debunking points are not detailed in the source material.
Circle lands Premier League shirt deal with Chelsea despite FCA warnings
Circle, a regulated cryptocurrency company, secured a shirt sponsorship deal with Chelsea FC three months after the UK Financial Conduct Authority cautioned Premier League clubs against signing agreements with questionable crypto sponsors. The deal marks the first regulated crypto company to obtain a Premier League shirt sponsorship, suggesting regulatory acceptance of compliant stablecoin issuers in mainstream sports partnerships.
RLUSD Stablecoin Surges to $2.3B While XRP Falls 27%
Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin has grown 1,278% this year and crossed $2.3 billion in market value, while the native XRP token declined 27% over the same period. The divergence highlights how Ripple's network activity is increasingly captured by its stablecoin rather than XRP, despite elevated transaction volumes on the network.
Prosecutors charge group with laundering 4,100 stolen Bitcoin via luxury spending
Federal prosecutors allege a group stole and laundered more than $245 million in cryptocurrency, including 4,100 Bitcoin, and spent the proceeds on private jets, exotic cars, and nightclub parties. The case highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to pursue theft and money laundering in the crypto sector.
Crypto Lobby Targets Home States Ahead of Clarity Act Vote
Cryptocurrency advocates and community bankers are conducting grassroots lobbying in senators' home states as the Senate prepares for a September 15 procedural vote on the Clarity Act. The campaign reflects industry efforts to influence legislation governing crypto regulation before a key procedural milestone.
Iran Uses Bitcoin to Stabilize Economy Amid Sanctions
Iran continues to utilize bitcoin to maintain economic stability, according to business and regime insiders cited in reports. The practice has become an established method for conducting transactions despite international sanctions, though the article provides limited specific details on scale or mechanisms.
Steak 'n Shake Reports Double-Digit Sales Growth After Bitcoin Adoption
The burger franchise began accepting Bitcoin via the Lightning Network last year and claims to have experienced double-digit sales growth since adoption. The reported performance suggests mainstream merchant adoption of Bitcoin payments may be driving increased customer activity, though the franchise has not disclosed specific transaction volumes or attribution methodology.
World Opens Solana Prediction Market to 1M Waitlisted Users
World has launched its standalone Solana prediction market platform to over 1 million waitlisted users, following creation of 150,000+ markets via Phantom wallet integration. The expansion grants direct market access to users previously on a waitlist, broadening participation in on-chain prediction trading on Solana.
Bitcoin Holds $78K as Traders Use Leverage Amid Oil, Inflation Concerns
Bitcoin traded around $78,451 as traders employed borrowed funds to bet on further gains, amid geopolitical tensions that pushed Brent crude above $100 per barrel. Rising Treasury yields and inflation fears from Middle East escalation are raising questions about cross-asset pressure ahead of Friday's inflation data release.
Fed Rate Hike Odds for September 2026 Climb Above 56%
CME FedWatch data shows the probability of a Federal Reserve rate hike in September 2026 has risen to near 56%, according to 99Bitcoins. Treasury yields have shown the most immediate market reaction to the Fed repricing, while Bitcoin has yet to display comparable movement.
Jump Trading's Hyperliquid Sees $150B in Trading Volume
Jump Trading's Hyperliquid derivatives platform has accumulated nearly $150 billion in trading volume, with the firm accounting for approximately 8% of global perpetual futures activity. The milestone underscores Hyperliquid's growing presence in the decentralized derivatives market and Jump Trading's dominant position in crypto market-making infrastructure.
Lookonchain Links $2.08M LAPTOP Token Sales to Wintermute
Blockchain analyst Lookonchain traced a 2.5 million-token team allocation of LAPTOP to a wallet tagged as Wintermute, a cryptocurrency market maker, valued at approximately $2.08 million. The report surfaced amid reports of near-empty launch pools and a 98% price decline from initial levels, raising questions about token distribution practices.
Robinhood CEO Says Stock Tokens Need Not Require Issuer Consent
Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev stated that stock tokens should not automatically require issuer consent for issuance, while acknowledging that token holders lack voting rights under the current structure. The tokens provide economic exposure through Jersey-issued debt securities rather than direct share ownership, positioning them as a regulatory middle ground between traditional equity and tokenized assets.
Tokenized Stocks: How Crypto Assets Mimic Equities Without Shareholder Rights
Tokenized stocks offer lower trading costs and broader access but often lack actual shareholder rights, creating confusion where two investors viewing identical company names at similar prices may own fundamentally different assets. CryptoSlate explains how one holder may possess actual shares while the other holds only a speculative token, distinguishing between equity exposure and crypto derivatives.
Malone Lam pleads guilty to $245M Bitcoin theft
Malone Lam pleaded guilty to stealing $245 million in Bitcoin and related lavish spending. The case marks a significant use of RICO charges in cryptocurrency crime prosecution, signaling an escalation in legal enforcement tactics that could reshape crypto regulatory and enforcement frameworks globally.
Solana's 300ms Speed Upgrade May Create Trade-offs for Validators
Solana is implementing a 300-millisecond speed boost intended to help users outpace trading bots, though the upgrade presents mixed incentives across different network participants. Fee-charging pools stand to gain the clearest benefits, while proprietary market makers and validators face distinct trade-offs in the new environment.
Sunrise expands tokenized stocks on Solana to 20 via Backpack
Sunrise has added 20 new tokenized stocks to Solana through Backpack Securities, according to Crypto Briefing. The expansion aims to improve accessibility to equity trading on blockchain infrastructure, though the move raises regulatory and operational questions around tokenized securities.
Pump.fun Expands Token Launches to 93 Quote Asset Pairs
Pump.fun enabled token creators to launch coins priced in assets beyond SOL and USDC on Wednesday, expanding quote pairs to 93 including tokenized Nvidia, Tesla, and the S&P 500. Half the revenue from new quote-asset pairs flows to the PUMP buyback-and-burn contract, with the deepest quote asset holding $3.07 million in liquidity.
Treasury Secretary Bessent Backs Crypto Clarity Act Ahead of Senate Vote
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has urged the Senate to pass the Clarity Act, a long-awaited cryptocurrency regulatory bill set for a Senate vote next week. The endorsement from a top Biden administration official signals potential executive branch support for crypto-focused legislation.
1inch Routes $800B in Trades but Remains Unprofitable
1inch, a decentralized exchange aggregator, has facilitated over $800 billion in cumulative trades, according to a co-founder statement. Despite the substantial volume, the executive indicated that the DeFi market remains too small to generate sustainable profits, highlighting structural profitability challenges in the sector.
Law enforcement restrains $52M in laundered crypto in single operation
A law enforcement operation identified as the Scam Center Strike Force seized or restrained $52 million in cryptocurrency identified as proceeds of fraud in a single day. The action demonstrates expanding regulatory capacity to track and freeze illicit digital assets, reflecting intensified global efforts against cryptocurrency-enabled financial crime.
Dollar stablecoins dominate onchain by 300-to-1 versus euro, gap narrows
Ryan Connor of RockawayX reports dollar-pegged stablecoins outnumber euro equivalents by roughly 300 to 1 onchain, compared to a 3-to-1 offchain ratio, with euro stablecoins totaling €711 million—under 1% of stablecoin supply. Connor attributes the disparity to path dependency and insufficient euro DeFi infrastructure, but notes that MiCA-regulated issuance and euro vault infrastructure are beginning to address the imbalance.
Block Files Application for U.S. Banking Charter
Block, Jack Dorsey's fintech firm, has applied for a banking charter to establish Builders Bank, which would offer bitcoin custody and fiduciary services. The move marks Block as the latest bitcoin-focused company seeking federally regulated banking status to expand its cryptocurrency offerings.
Zcash Volatility Outpaces Bitcoin Despite 1% Market Cap
Zcash (ZEC) trades at roughly 1% of Bitcoin's market capitalization but exhibits volatility more than three times higher, according to CryptoPotato analysis. The disparity creates opportunities for options traders seeking risk management or premium income strategies, the outlet suggests.
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