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by Cointelegraph by Nancy Lubale on April 29, 2025 at 1:33 pm

Key takeaways:Strong Ethereum ETF inflows signal high institutional demand.Ethereum’s $51.8B TVL and 30% DEX weekly volume rise show robust network strength.A bull flag pattern on the ETH’s four-hour chart targets $2,100.Ether’s (ETH) price rose to a new range high at $1,860 on April 28, its highest value since April 2.Several analysts argue that the ETH price needs to hold above $1,800 to increase the chances of rising higher.“Once ETH confirms this 4H close above resistance [$1,800], Ether and altcoins will finally get their time to shine,” trader Kiran Gadakh said in an April 29 post on X.  “I can feel it in my bones, $2,000 ETH coming fast.” ETH/USD 12-hour chart. Source: Kiran GadakPopular analyst Nebraskangooner opined that if ETH faces high volume rejection from the $1,800 level, it might drop to test support levels around $1,600.Source: NebraskangoonerEthereum ETF demand returnsSeveral data metrics suggest that Ether is well-positioned to break out toward $2,000 in the following days or weeks.One factor supporting Ether's bull case is resurgent institutional demand, reflected by significant inflows into spot Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs).On April 28, Ethereum ETFs saw a net inflow totaling $64.1 million. This followed inflows totalling $151.7 million during the week ending April 25, the highest since February 2025. Spot Ethereum ETF netflows. Source: SoSoValueThe increase in institutional demand was reinforced by net inflows of $183 million into Ethereum investment products last week, ending an eight-week streak of outflows, as reported by CoinShares. This trend reflects growing confidence among traditional finance players, as observed by market analysts like CoinShares' head of research, James Butterfill, who noted:“We believe concerns over the tariff impact on corporate earnings and the dramatic weakening of the US dollar are why investors have turned toward digital assets, which are being seen as an emerging safe haven.”Institutional buying creates sustained upward pressure on Ether’s price by absorbing the available supply.Strong Ethereum onchain activity is backEthereum remains the undisputed top layer-1 blockchain with more than $51.8 billion in total value locked (TVL) on the network, according to data from DefiLlama. The chart below shows that Ethereum's TVL has increased by approximately 16% over the last seven days.Ethereum TVL and daily DEX volumes. Source: DefiLlamaAave was among the strongest performers in Ethereum deposits, with the TVL rising 13.5% over seven days. Other notable increases included Lido (12%), EigenLayer (13%), and Ether.fi (12%).Compared to other top-layer networks, the Ethereum network towers above its rivals in terms of TVL growth in the daily and weekly time frames, except SUI, which has seen a 47% increase in its TVL over the last seven days.Ethereum’s daily DEX volumes have increased by more than 30% over the last week, to $1.65 billion. However, this is significantly lower than the 78% and 44% increases on SUI and Solana, respectively. Related: Ethereum Foundation shuffles leadership, splits board and managementETH price bull flags targets $2,100The ETH/USD pair has a good chance of resuming its upward momentum despite the rejection at $1,860, as the chart shows a classic bullish pattern.Ether’s price action over the past week has led to a bull flag pattern on the four-hour chart, as shown in the figure below. A four-hour candlestick close above the flag’s upper boundary at $1,800 on April 29 suggests the start of an upward move.The flagpole’s height sets the target, which projects Ether’s price ascent to $2,100 or approximately a 15% increase from the current price.ETH/USD 4-hour chart w/ bull flag pattern. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewAnother bullish indicator is the relative strength index, which is moving within the positive region at 60, suggesting that the market conditions still favor the upside.As Cointelegraph reported, increased demand from the $1,700 area (at the 20-day SMA) should serve as a solid foundation for ETH price to reach the $2,110 level, eventually topping out at $2,500.This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

by Cointelegraph by Cointelegraph on April 29, 2025 at 1:29 pm

Today in crypto, the US Department of Justice has requested a 20-year prison sentence for Alex Mashinsky, the co-founder and former CEO of defunct crypto lender Celsius, a crypto group petitioned the White House to drop charges against crypto devs, including Tornado Cash’s Roman Storm, and Arizona’s House passed two crypto reserve bills.US DOJ requests 20-year sentence for Celsius founder Alex MashinskyAlex Mashinsky, the founder and former CEO of the now-defunct cryptocurrency lending platform Celsius, faces a 20-year prison sentence as the US Department of Justice (DOJ) seeks a severe penalty for his role in a multibillion-dollar fraud.The DOJ on April 28 filed the government’s sentencing memorandum against Mashinsky, recommending a 20-year prison sentence for his fraudulent actions, which led to billions of dollars in losses for Celsius customers.The 97-page memo mentioned that Celsius users were unable to access approximately $4.7 billion in crypto assets after the platform halted withdrawals on June 12, 2022.“The Court should sentence Alexander Mashinsky to twenty years’ imprisonment as just punishment for his years-long campaign of lies and self-dealing that left in its wake billions in losses and thousands of victimized customers,” the DOJ stated.In addition to the investor losses, the DOJ noted that Mashinsky has personally profited from the fraudulent schemes in his role.As part of his guilty plea in December 2024, Mashinsky admitted that he was the leader of the criminal activity at Celsius, that his crimes resulted in losses in excess of $550 million, and that he personally benefited more than $48 million, the DOJ said.An excerpt from the government’s sentencing memorandum against Celsius founder Alex Mashinsky. Source: CourtListenerThe DOJ highlighted that Mashinsky’s guilty plea showed that his crimes were “not the product of negligence, naivete, or bad luck,” but rather the result of “deliberate, calculated decisions to lie, deceive, and steal in pursuit of personal fortune.”Crypto group asks Trump to end prosecution of crypto devsThe DeFi Education Fund has led an April 28 petition to White House crypto czar David Sacks asking to end what it claimed was the “lawless prosecution” of open-source software developers, including Roman Storm, a creator of the crypto mixing service Tornado Cash.The group urged President Donald Trump “to take immediate action to discontinue the Biden-era Department of Justice's lawless campaign to criminalize open-source software development.” They said that in Storm’s case, who was charged in August 2023 with helping launder over $1 billion in crypto through Tornado Cash, the Department of Justice is attempting to hold software developers criminally liable for how others use their code, which is “not only absurd in principle, but it sets a precedent that potentially chills all crypto development in the United States.”Source: DeFi Education FundThe petition has so far attracted over 250 signatures from industry executives and developers.Meanwhile, lawyers for executives of the crypto mixer Samourai Wallet, charged with money laundering and unlicensed money transmitting, said prosecutors are mulling whether to dismiss the case after Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche shuttered the DOJ’s crypto team earlier this month.Arizona legislature moves forward with Bitcoin reserve billsLawmakers in the Arizona House of Representatives have voted to pass two bills that could allow the state to adopt a reserve using Bitcoin (BTC) or other cryptocurrencies.In a third reading on April 28 of the Senate Bill 1025 (SB1025), a proposal to amend Arizona’s statutes to allow for a strategic BTC reserve, 31 members of the Arizona House voted in favor of the bill, with 25 opposed. A similar bill, SB1373, to establish a state-level digital assets reserve, passed with 37 lawmakers in favor and 19 voting nay.“This bill basically takes the approach that probably 15 other states are considering the same legislation nationwide that allows the treasurer to invest up to 10% into, probably mainly Bitcoin but other things as well,” said State Representative Jeff Weninger on SB1025. “I think this probably would start as a ‘may’ for the foreseeable future, but as things continue to pivot towards Bitcoin and these things, would have that already in place in the future.”Voting for SB1025 in the Arizona House of Representatives on April 28. Source: Arizona State Legislature

by Cointelegraph by Helen Partz on April 29, 2025 at 1:18 pm

The United States’ rejection of a central bank digital currency has not halted the progress of CBDCs globally, but their success has been questionable so far, according to a former Binance executive.Global CBDC projects have not failed, but they have also not become what they were anticipated to be, according to Olga Goncharova, CEO at the consulting firm Rizz Go and former director of government relations in the Commonwealth of Independent States at Binance.“CBDCs were conceived as a technological breakthrough, but so far they look like expensive imitations of existing traditional fiat currencies that citizens and businesses already use through online banking and payment apps,” Goncharova told Cointelegraph at the Blockchain Forum in Moscow.Olga Goncharova during a panel on Web3 geopolitics at the Blockchain Forum 2025 on April 23. Source: Blockchain ForumThough some of the CBDC-like creatives date back to the 1990s, modern initiatives are yet to offer users a real added value compared to traditional payment channels, she said.CBDC leaders like China struggle with adoption“Today it is clear that the expectations around CBDCs were overestimated,” Goncharova claimed, adding that none of the jurisdictions worldwide have succeeded in the mass adoption of retail CBDCs.“Even in China, where the digital yuan project has been moving longer and more actively than others, its share in the payment system remains minimal,” she added, referring to multiple online reports suggesting that China’s CBDC has been struggling amid slow adoption.Source: Mercator Institute for China StudiesWith China’s CBDC early-stage research starting in 2014, China’s digital yuan is known as one of the biggest CBDC projects worldwide, offering an electronic version of the Chinese yuan intended for online and offline transactions.Related: China selling seized crypto to top up coffers as economy slows: ReportThe Chinese government has been actively promoting the use of the digital yuan. Still, some reports declared China’s digital project a failure in late 2024, referring to the downfall of Yao Qian, the first director of CBDC development at China’s central bank. Late last year, he was reportedly expelled from public office by the government.EU pushes a digital euro for autonomyEvery country has its reasons to pursue a CBDC, Goncharova continued, noting that the European Union has been pushing its digital euro project to protect its financial autonomy.“In the EU, the digital euro is perceived more as an instrument of strategic autonomy than as a response to market demand,” she stated, adding that its goal is to reduce reliance on payment giants like Visa and Mastercard.Source: ReutersHowever, the efforts to create a pan-European payment system have faced serious challenges, such as market share concerns by banks as well as adoption difficulties.“The European Central Bank has not yet decided whether the digital euro will operate on the blockchain, as it does not see convincing cases for programmability and points to technological risks,” Goncharova said.Russia delays a digital rubleRussia has emerged as one of the most active jurisdictions in the global CBDC race, but it’s yet to roll out its digital currency as well, which has been on multiple trials since early 2022.After seeing many launch delays, a digital ruble could be postponed further as Bank of Russia Governor Elvira Nabiullina in February announced that the mass adoption of a digital ruble would occur later than planned.A panel at the Blockchain Forum 2025 in Moscow. Source: Blockchain ForumAt the same time, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov has recently claimed that the digital ruble is scheduled to be rolled out for commercial banks in the second half of 2025.Related: Russian ruble stablecoin: Exec lists 7 ‘Tether replica’ features“In Russia, there is no urgent need to reduce dependence on foreign payment systems as in the EU,” Goncharova told Cointelegraph, adding:“The digital ruble is rather perceived as a tool for increasing the efficiency of internal settlements. The project is still at the testing stage. Its further development will depend on how clearly the tasks are formulated and whether there is practical sense for users and the economy.”While Russia has been delaying its digital ruble, some officials have recently called on the government to create ruble-pegged stablecoins, echoing the US’s stablecoin push.While several ruble stablecoins have already been introduced, it remains to be seen whether the initiatives can compete with giants like Tether’s USDt (USDT).Magazine: Ethereum is destroying the competition in the $16.1T TradFi tokenization race

by Cointelegraph by Adrian Zmudzinski on April 29, 2025 at 1:03 pm

The Beijing city administration has announced a plan for local blockchain development and implementation over the next two years.According to an April 29 announcement, the plan was jointly developed by the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission, the Zhongguancun Administrative Committee, the Cyberspace Administration Office, the Bureau of Government Services and Data, the Bureau of Economy and Information Technology and the Bureau of Commerce. The implementation is expected to start this year and continue until 2027.The announcement. Source: Beijing governmentThe Beijing Blockchain Innovation and Application Development Action Plan recognizes blockchain as a “critical foundational technology for industrial digitalization and vital digital infrastructure.” Notably, the objectives also include plans to “enhance the value extraction from digital assets through blockchain,” which may indicate crypto mining. The announcement also claims that the city has already invested heavily in this area of research:“Beijing has significantly progressed in autonomous blockchain technology development and application scenarios.“Related: An overview of China’s digital yuanBeijing bets on blockchain for economic growthThe plan involves developing blockchain software that targets breakthroughs in cryptography, confidential computing and distributed systems. The project also includes the development of blockchain infrastructure, including national blockchain hub nodes and platforms for trusted digital identity and distributed data directories.Industries targeted for blockchain application include healthcare, education, large artificial intelligence models, financial services and transportation. The objective is to enhance efficiency and trust:“The aim is to optimize business processes, ensure trustworthy data sharing, and innovate service models, establishing benchmark applications to drive broader blockchain adoption.“Related: Trump’s crypto push vs. Xi’s digital yuan: What it means for the future of moneyOne blockchain, one network, one platformThe announcement cites the “one blockchain, one network, one platform” principle. By 2027, the project aims to implement dedicated blockchain chips, privacy protection features, crosschain interoperability and distributed networking.The project hopes to achieve petabyte-scale trusted node storage, large-scale blockchain interoperability, and a hundred-million-user-scale interoperable trusted identity system. The announcement promises the development of at least 20 blockchain use cases.The announcement follows Beijing’s release of a white paper to foster innovation and advance the Web3 industry in May 2023. The “Web3 Innovation and Development White Paper” recognized Web3 technology as an “inevitable trend for future Internet industry development.“The commission behind the paper hoped to establish Beijing as an innovation hub for the digital economy and planned to allocate a minimum of 100 million yuan ($14 million) annually until this year.Magazine: Illegal arcade disguised as … a fake Bitcoin mine? Soldier scams in China: Asia Express

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 29, 2025 at 12:20 pm

A16z Crypto led a $25 million investment round into Miden, an independent blockchain project spun out of Polygon Labs.Miden closed its $25 million seed rounds led by a16z Crypto, 1kx, and Hack VC, with participation from Finality Capital Partners, Symbolic Capital, P2 Ventures, Delta Fund, MH Ventures, as well as from angel investors, including MakerDAO’s Rune Christensen and EigenLayer’s Sreeram Kannan.Miden is a zero-knowledge (ZK) proof-powered blockchain focused on high scalability through its hybrid consensus mode, which moves transaction execution from the mainnet on “edge devices,” referring to users’ devices.Designed for institutions that value confidentiality, Miden enables applications to execute both public and private transactions with full privacy, according to an April 29 announcement shared with Cointelegraph.Execution on edge devices can help with the “bottlenecks that limit traditional chains,” said Bobbin Threadbare, the co-founder at Miden and former engineer at Meta, adding:“It allows blockchains to scale without relying on supernodes or sacrificing decentralization, while making privacy a built-in feature instead of an afterthought.”The $25 million will be used to fund Miden’s development, and its mainnet launch is slated for the fourth quarter of 2025.Related: Coinbase to launch yield-bearing Bitcoin fund for institutionsMiden is “the future of blockchains,” says Polygon Labs’ Nailwal“Miden is what the future of blockchains looks like. With edge execution at its core, it’s not just an upgrade — it’s the blueprint for the final form of blockchain architecture,” according to Sandeep Nailwal, the founder of Polygon Labs.“With ambitions to rival Solana, Sui, and Aptos — and to be the epicenter of crosschain liquidity for Agglayer as a native chain and help grow the Agglayer ecosystem— building independently naturally positions Miden to attract the capital and focus needed to compete at the highest level,” Nailwal added.Miden plans to airdrop around 10% of its native tokens to Polygon (POL) tokenholders and stakers to reward its native ecosystem.Related: BlackRock Bitcoin ETF buys $970M in BTC as inflows surge, boost marketNo existing blockchain is ready for mass adoption: Miden co-founder“The reality is that no existing blockchain is ready for mass adoption,” either lacking privacy, scalability, or Web3-native principles such as censorship resistance, according to Miden’s Threadbare.However, Miden’s infrastructure may be a “catalyst for large institutional adoption,” he claimed, adding:“The reality is that up until this point, blockchains have not been in the position to offer privacy without compromising on performance or programmability, which is a major issue.”Large tech firms joining the space require privacy solutions with regulatory compliance, leaving a significant gap for solutions like Miden, added the co-founder.Inco: the fourth layer of the blockchain stackOther industry watchers have also criticized the industry’s lack of confidentiality for limiting institutional adoption.Confidential computing technologies such as fully homomorphic encryption could unlock the next $1 trillion worth of capital for the crypto space with continued technological development, Remi Gai, the founder of Inco, told Cointelegraph.Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest, April 13 – 19

by Cointelegraph by Aaron Wood on April 29, 2025 at 11:58 am

The first 100 days of the administration of US President Donald Trump have deeply impacted the crypto industry, starting with his own memecoin and culminating in a Bitcoin reserve and a spate of blockchain policymaking. Trump’s trade war with the entire world has had the largest short-term impact on crypto markets, as crypto prices have wavered amid macroeconomic worry and uncertainty. Higher prices on electronics mean Bitcoin (BTC) miners are finding it harder to break even, and de-dollarization concerns abound. Still, crypto markets have shown some resilience and cause for optimism in the administration’s crypto-friendly policies. A number of pro-crypto leaders have been appointed to key government agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The crypto industry’s long-awaited regulatory framework is also imminent. Trump’s first 100 days have seen remarkable changes for the crypto industry, and it appears that things are only getting started. Here’s a look at what’s happened so far.Jan. 20 — Trump’s first 100 days kick off with a memecoinOn Jan. 20, while Trump was sworn into office in the rotunda of the Capitol Building, his family’s crypto investment firm, World Liberty Financial (WLFI), launched its second token sale of WLFI tokens.Massive demand saw prices initially spike, though the true value of the tokens, if any, is yet to be determined, as WLFI is currently not transferable and cannot be traded on any exchanges. The memecoin served as a kickoff for Trump’s crypto agenda, which has seen unprecedented support for the industry in Washington, DC, along with a slew of moral and ethical concerns among observers and lawmakers. Related: Trump’s WLFI crypto investments aren’t paying offJan. 20 — Pro-crypto leaders head up federal agencies on “day one”The president of the US sets the tone for several federal regulators, including those overseeing crypto. Trump immediately set out to appoint a number of pro-crypto lawyers and businessmen to head up the SEC, the CFTC and other critical federal agencies.Trump nominated businessman Paul Atkins to lead the SEC on “day one” of his presidency. Atkins would replace Gary Gensler, who was perceived by many in the crypto industry as an enemy to adoption and the industry’s progress. Also on day one, Trump appointed businessman and crypto investor David Sacks as chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology — or the crypto and AI “czar.”Atkins wouldn’t be confirmed by the Senate until April 9 and sworn in on April 21. But in the meantime, Trump also tapped former CFTC Commissioner and crypto proponent Brian Quintenz to head up that agency. Jan. 21 — $500-billion Stargate AI initiative In a press conference, Trump announced a $500-billion private-led AI infrastructure investment called “Stargate.” The president claimed the project — led by ChatGPT creator OpenAI, SoftBank and Oracle — would create some 10,000 American jobs.Trump said the US needed to lead the world in AI innovation and keep development onshore. “China is a competitor, others are competitors. We want it to be in this country, and we’re making it available,” he said.OpenAI claimed that the project would “not only support the re-industrialization of the United States but also provide a strategic capability to protect the national security of America and its allies.”Jan. 21 — Pardon for Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht Trump announced on Truth Social that he had called the family of Silk Road 2.0 founder Ross Ulbricht after commuting his sentence.After his arrest in 2013, Ulbricht was sentenced to life in prison in 2015 without the possibility of parole for his role in facilitating the trafficking of narcotics and other illicit substances. Ulbricht’s case became a rallying point for libertarian movements and prison reform advocates alike. Libertarian-minded crypto advocates supported Ulbricht, as his platform was one of the first places people could actually spend Bitcoin. Crypto advocates supported Ulbricht, with many believing he did nothing wrong. Source: The Bitcoin HistorianFreeing Ulbricht was one of the many campaign promises Trump made to the crypto community.Jan. 23 — Ban on digital dollar, establishing a crypto working groupWith an executive order, Trump established an internal working group to focus on making the US “the world capital in crypto.” The order also prohibited “the establishment, issuance, circulation, and use” of a US central bank digital currency (CBDC). CBDCs are a contentious issue in the crypto community, with many privacy activists claiming that they are another form of state surveillance and government control. Enthusiasm over their creation from central bankers has further set the more libertarian-minded crypto community against their creation.Trump signing the executive order. Source: ABC NewsThe working group would kickstart the process for creating the forthcoming US Bitcoin and crypto reserves. Feb. 1 — Trade war begins with tariffs on Mexico, China and CanadaOne of the promises of the Trump campaign was to rectify the “bad deals” that the US had with many of its oldest allies and most important trading partners. Just over a week after he was sworn into office, Trump announced sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, citing border security concerns and the supposed proliferation of cross-border trade of fentanyl from those countries. The same day, Canada announced retaliatory measures. On Feb. 3, Mexico promised to step up security of its northern border, responding to American requests for increased patrols. This led Trump to reverse initial tariff plans on both countries. The unexpected hostile tariffs from a close partner and ally sent stock and crypto prices tumbling. They marked the beginning of the macroeconomic uncertainty that has come to characterize the early days of the Trump administration. Feb. 12 — Vinnik-Foegel prisoner swap with RussiaAlexander Vinnik, the convicted money launderer who funneled Bitcoin stolen in the infamous Mt. Gox hack through his crypto exchange BTC-e, returned to his home country of Russia.Vinnik pled guilty to money laundering conspiracy charges in 2024. BTC-e processed more than $9 billion in transactions and had over 1 million users worldwide, many of whom were in the US.Vinnik was exchanged for American schoolteacher Marc Fogel, who was teaching at the Anglo-American School of Moscow and had been in a Russian jail since 2021 after being arrested for illegal possession of cannabis. Feb. 18 — Bankman-Fried makes veiled plea for releaseIn an interview with The New York Sun, the former CEO of now-defunct crypto exchange FTX, Sam Bankman-Fried, addressed his controversial political contributions, saying the Republican Party was always “far more reasonable.”Bankman-Fried, or SBF, made widely publicized contributions to the Democratic Party as he purportedly tried to influence democratic policymakers’ approach to the digital asset industry. It later became known that SBF was playing both sides of the aisle, donating significant funds to Republicans, though the exact amount remains unknown. In the interview, SBF likened his position to that of Trump, claiming that he’d been unfairly treated by the criminal justice system. SBF called into question the conduct of the federal judge overseeing his trial, Judge Lewis Kaplan. “I know President Trump had a lot of frustrations with Judge Kaplan. I certainly did as well.”Observers saw the interview as an attempt to elicit a pardon from Trump. Roger Ver, an early Bitcoin advocate facing criminal tax evasion charges, has made an outright appeal.March 7 — Trump establishes Bitcoin reserve and crypto stockpileOn March 7, the 46th day of Trump’s presidency, he signed an executive order establishing a “Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.” Trump made big promises about crypto adoption on the campaign trail, including the possibility of a long-sought-after Bitcoin reserve. The US reserve, however, would fall short of expectations among Bitcoin maximalists. Rather than create a concrete plan for the US government to purchase and hold Bitcoin, it merely created a single reserve to pool all Bitcoin the government had seized during criminal proceedings.While the order does state that the government may purchase additional Bitcoin, it must do so in a budget-neutral fashion. In tandem with the Bitcoin reserve, Trump also established a US Digital Asset Stockpile containing other cryptocurrencies such as Ether (ETH), Solana (SOL), XRP (XRP) and Cardano (ADA).March 7 — White House Crypto SummitLeaders of the crypto industry descended on Washington for a meeting at the White House to discuss a wide range of topics related to crypto regulation and the development of the industry in the US.Attendees included Strategy executive chairman Michael Saylor, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong and “crypto czar” David Sacks. While some attendees, including Chainlink co-founder Sergey Nazarov, were optimistic about the event’s focus on strengthening the US crypto industry, some crypto luminaries who were not on the list were less impressed.Cardano and IOHK co-founder Charles Hoskinson, who did not attend the event, noted in a video stream that real change — i.e., legislation — must be made in Congress. “Everybody focuses on the White House because it’s simple and easy to do so. [...] And as much as we, as an industry, want this to be a short process, it’s going to be a long and methodical process,” Hoskinson said.Others put it more simply:Source: George MandrikMarch 25 — WLFI goes stablecoinWLFI expanded its offerings in March with the soft launch of its stablecoin USD1. The coin, “100% backed by short-term US government treasuries, US dollar deposits, and other cash equivalents,” launched on the Ethereum and BNB Chain networks.News of the token’s launch came just days after WLFI secured more than $500 million by selling its own WLFI tokens.US lawmakers subsequently called for an ethics probe into WLFI and cited the president’s ability to influence stablecoin policy as a major conflict of interest with the project. Related: Atkins becomes next SEC chair: What’s next for the crypto industryApril 2 — Liberation DayDoubling down on his belligerent trade policy, Trump levies tariffs on all US trade partners on what he dubs “Liberation Day.” At a special event at the White House, Trump signed an executive order levying reciprocal tariffs on every country with a tariff on US goods, starting at a 10% minimum.Markets saw a spate of red across the board following the order, and many economic observers raised concerns over a looming recession. Crypto miners based in the US were further squeezed as their operation costs, namely for buying new mining rigs, increased significantly. Former White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci told Cointelegraph, “I would say that he’s had the worst 95 days in modern presidential history. The markets recovered a little, but we’ve got $9 trillion taken from the stock market. You had a growing economy that’s now heading into a medium-sized recession, possibly a steep recession.”He said that Trump declared a trade war “without any real weaponry” and subsequently lied about progress when the president claimed China was attempting to negotiate.“The lies are ok — everyone accepts that he’s a congenital liar [...] but when you’re declaring war on people and then you’re lying, it’s really bad.”April 25 — $300,000-per-plate memecoin dinner raises call for impeachmentTop Trump memecoin holders were reportedly offered an opportunity to have dinner with the president, sparking renewed concerns over his crypto project and prompting one US lawmaker to support impeachment. At a town hall meeting in his home state of Georgia, Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff said he “strongly” supports impeachment. “When the sitting president of the United States is selling access for what are effectively payments directly to him, there is no question that that rises to the level of an impeachable offense,” he said.TRUMP holders can register to have dinner with the President. Source: gettrumpmemes.comRumors on social media stated that $300,000 would grant tokenholders an audience with the president, a claim the Trump administration later denied.Trump’s first 100 days could jeopardize changeThe first 100 days of Trump’s presidency have brought unprecedented change to the crypto industry. Simultaneously, they have opened it up to increased criticism and controversy as the president’s personal ties with blockchain projects raise ethical questions. These controversies may well jeopardize the industry’s efforts to effect change in Congress, according to Scaramucci, who said, “Trump has so inflamed everything that he’s made it even hard for [stablecoin legislation] to happen.”The STABLE Act, which aims to provide guardrails for stablecoin issuance in the US, was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 26 and passed a committee vote on April 3, with prominent Democrats dissenting. The bill will soon head to the floor for a general vote before going to the Senate. The Senate’s GENIUS Act has recently made headway, passing a vote in the Banking Committee, largely along party lines.Magazine: Bitcoin $100K hopes on ice, SBF’s mysterious prison move: Hodler’s Digest, April 20 – 26

by Cointelegraph by Amin Haqshanas on April 29, 2025 at 11:47 am

USDC stablecoin issuer Circle has received in-principle approval (IPA) from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the company announced on April 29.The approval moves Circle closer to obtaining a full Financial Services Permission (FSP) license, allowing it to operate as a regulated money services provider in the United Arab Emirates, the firm said in an official press release.Jeremy Allaire, Circle’s Co-Founder and CEO, said the approval “advances our strategy to establish deep roots in markets embracing the onchain economy.” He added:“It also underscores Circle’s enduring commitment to global stablecoin oversight—strengthening trust, compliance, and adoption worldwide, while laying a resilient foundation for the internet financial system.”Comments from Circle CEO and Chief of Market Development at ADGM regarding the regulatory nod. Source: PR Related: Circle files for Initial Public Offering planned for AprilCircle partners with Hub71In addition to regulatory progress, Circle announced a partnership with Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s tech ecosystem. As part of the collaboration, the two firms plan to work together on projects within ADGM’s digital regulatory sandbox.Circle will also join Hub71’s digital assets group, sharing its experience with a community of more than 500 tech startups and investors.Circle’s flagship USDC token is the second-largest stablecoin in terms of market capitalization. As of now, there are $62.03 billion USDC (USDC) tokens in circulation, according to data from CoinMarketCap.Meanwhile, Circle has been pushing into new global markets amid rising interest in stablecoins.In July 2024, Circle became the first global stablecoin issuer to comply with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation.In Japan, Circle expanded its presence through a partnership with SBI Holdings. On March 26, 2025, SBI VC Trade, a subsidiary of SBI Holdings, launched USDC trading, making it the first stablecoin approved under Japan’s regulatory framework.Related: Circle executive denies claims of seeking US banking licenseUAE aims to position itself a major Web3 hubThe United Arab Emirates has been actively working to establish itself as a global Web3 hub, leveraging progressive regulation and strategic partnerships to attract leading digital asset firms.In August 2024, the country ranked third in a crypto adoption index released by Henley & Partners, an investment migration consultancy firm.On April 6, Dubai’s real estate and crypto regulatory authorities signed a new agreement aimed at expanding digital asset adoption in the real estate sector. The agreement will link Dubai’s real estate registry with property tokenization through a governance system. Magazine: Bitcoin price consolidation likely as US Core PCE, manufacturing, and jobs reports print this week

by Cointelegraph by Adrian Zmudzinski on April 29, 2025 at 11:30 am

Bitcoin mining firm Phoenix Group announced the addition of 52 megawatts (MW) worth of mining capacity to its capabilities in Ethiopia.According to an April 29 announcement, with this latest addition, Phoenix’s Bitcoin mining capacity in Ethiopia reaches 132 MW. The firm’s global capacity now reportedly exceeds 500 MW.Phoenix’s co-founder and CEO, Munaf Ali, said the firm’s strategy relies on “securing prime locations with abundant, low-cost energy.”“Initiatives like our latest expansion in Ethiopia are pivotal steps, not only creating significant value today but also solidifying our position,” he said.Related: Arkansas city rejects crypto mining proposal after community pushbackBuilding on previous agreementsThe news follows Phoenix Group signing an agreement that secures the right to 80 MW of power in Ethiopia in January. An announcement published at the time noted that the new Bitcoin mining site was scheduled to go live in the second quarter of 2025.The 52 MW site will be developed in two phases, with the first one using just 20 MW to power 5,300 air-cooled mining units with an expected hashrate of 1.2 exahashes per second. In the second phase — expected to reach completion by the end of Q2 2025 — the site will use the full 52 MW, water cooling, and produce an estimated 2.4 exahashes per second of hashrate.An exahash is a unit of computational power used mainly to measure the speed of cryptocurrency mining networks, especially Bitcoin. Exahashes quantify how many trillions of calculations a mining network can perform per second.Reza Nedjatian, the CEO of the firm’s mining, artificial intelligence and data center subsidiary, highlighted that the plant will be powered by renewable energy:“With 132 MW now running on clean hydropower, we’re proud to set a new benchmark for sustainable mining in Africa and deliver large-scale operations in energy-rich regions.”Related: LAPD recovers $2.7M worth of Bitcoin miners stolen in airport heistA fast-burn companyPhoenix Group became a publicly-traded company following its late 2023 listing on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. The firm successfully closed its initial public offering (IPO) with an oversubscription of 33 times, reporting that its offer of 907,323,529 shares saw “overwhelming demand.”Following the listing, Phoenix Group shares rapidly rose by 50% following the $371 million IPO, opening at 2.25 dirhams ($0.6) and rapidly reaching 1.50 dirhams ($0.41). At the time of writing, shares are trading at around $7.94.Phoenix Group share price chart. Source: Google FinanceThe firm is known for its large-scale mining initiatives, having acquired $187 million worth of Bitcoin mining equipment in a single transaction in early 2024. Bitcoin mining is not the only activity the firm is involved in.In 2024, Tether, the largest stablecoin provider in the digital asset industry, announced plans to launch a new stablecoin pegged to the United Arab Emirates dirham. Tether partnered with Phoenix Group and Green Acorn Investments on the project.Magazine: AI may already use more power than Bitcoin — and it threatens Bitcoin mining

by Cointelegraph by Sasha Shilina on April 29, 2025 at 11:30 am

What is digital identity? Your digital identity is the fingerprint you leave across the internet, a living map of who you are.Your digital identity is more than just your name or email; it stretches from your social media profiles and crypto wallet addresses to your device fingerprints and even the rhythms of your daily browsing habits. In the fast-moving world of cryptocurrency, where identity and financial access often overlap, digital identity theft isn’t just a nuisance; it’s an open door to your assets. Without strong protection, even small pieces of stolen information can be stitched into a full profile, giving cybercriminals everything they need to impersonate you, seize your funds or lock you out of your accounts.What many don’t realize is how quickly this exposure happens. Every new wallet connection, exchange login, or saved payment method quietly expands your digital surface area. With each step, your data becomes more valuable and more vulnerable. In a landscape where information is currency, your cyber identity can become a jackpot for hackers who know how to cash it out.Did you know? In 2025, experts estimate that over 50 billion digital identities could be compromised worldwide, a 22% jump from last year. Crypto users are among the biggest targets, especially on decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms without strong identity checks. Synthetic identity fraud is also exploding, hitting new crypto lending services the hardest. How cybercriminals steal your digital identity Cybercriminals blend technology and manipulation to pry open digital identities.Phishing remains a common entry point, where fake websites or emails trick users into revealing passwords or seed phrases. Large personal data breaches leak databases of usernames, emails and credentials, fueling account takeover attacks across different services.Hackers also exploit:Synthetic identity fraud: combining real and fake data to create new identities.Social engineering attacks: manipulating users emotionally to voluntarily reveal sensitive information.Credential stuffing: using leaked passwords on other platforms, hoping users reused them.Knowing how criminals exploit crypto markets and digital ecosystems can make it much harder to be tricked. Stolen identity, sold forever on the dark web Once your data is stolen, it often ends up for sale on the dark web, multiplying the threat.Dark web identity theft is a thriving economy. Full identity profiles, including names, emails, Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and crypto keys can fetch high prices. Buyers may use the stolen identity immediately or resell it repeatedly, creating multiple waves of attacks months or even years later.Even after you lock down your accounts, your leaked data can keep circulating in dark corners of the web. That’s why tools like dark web monitoring and breach alerts aren’t optional; they’re your long-term defense. Recovery isn’t a one-time fix. It’s a habit of staying alert and adapting. Signs your digital identity has been stolen Spotting the signs of identity theft early can stop criminals before they cause major damage.Victims of cyber identity theft may notice strange transactions, denied logins or devices appearing that they don't recognize. Sometimes the signs are financial — unauthorized credit card charges, changes in your crypto balances or unexpected loans under your name.Key warning signs include:Password reset requests you didn’t initiate.Locked-out accounts or sudden logouts across devices.New accounts or credit lines appearing on your financial history.Unexpected withdrawals or transfers from crypto wallets.By catching the signs of identity theft early, you can shut down fraud before it spirals, and protect your money and your name. What to do if your identity is stolen Fast, clear action gives you the best chance to limit the damage from identity theft.If you realize your identity has been stolen, the first priority is locking down access. Update your passwords across all platforms, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) protection, and revoke access to any suspicious sessions or devices. Most major exchanges, banks and crypto services allow you to temporarily freeze your accounts while you investigate.Beyond immediate security steps, you should report the incident to authorities and file a case with your local cybercrime unit or financial protection agency. Using online help services can speed up your response plan. These initial moves through clear recovery steps are critical to regaining control before criminals spread the attack further.Recovery steps after digital identity theftRecovering from identity theft involves more than just securing your passwords; it’s a complete rebuild of your digital trust.After locking down your accounts and alerting key institutions, you need to start active monitoring. This means regularly reviewing your bank statements, checking your crypto wallets for unauthorized transactions and inspecting your credit report for any new activity.Some victims also pursue:Filing fraud alerts or credit freezes with major credit agencies.Hiring professional identity recovery services.Exploring identity theft insurance to cover legal and investigative costs.Full recovery can take months, but a systematic approach reduces financial and emotional damage. How to protect your digital identity Good security habits are the strongest defense against cybercriminals.Crypto platforms and companies should adopt decentralized blockchain-based identity solutions. These systems ensure that your data remains secure, transparent and in your control, making it much harder for hackers to manipulate or steal your personal information.Unlike centralized systems, blockchain-based identities are stored on a distributed ledger, reducing single points of failure and making it significantly more difficult for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access. Furthermore, decentralized identity systems enable users to verify their identities without exposing sensitive personal data, allowing for more privacy and control over who sees their information.For users, fortifying their digital identity isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about building sharp habits that evolve with the risks. Here’s how to stay ahead:Treat passwords like armor: Use strong, unique combinations for every account. A password manager can forge and guard them better than memory ever could.Double down with 2FA: One password isn’t enough, so add an extra lock on every door worth protecting, especially your finances and crypto.Practice digital minimalism: Every birthday, pet name or photo shared online can become ammo for hackers. Choose smart allies: Stick with crypto platforms that prioritize decentralized digital identity verification and real security, not just flashy promises.Watch, detect, respond: Set alerts and monitor your accounts. Spotting strange activity early can turn a disaster into a close call.Be stingy with your data: Only trust platforms that collect the bare minimum. If a site asks for too much, walk away.Avoid easy mistakes: Public WiFi is a hacker’s playground. Use a VPN when you connect, and regularly check if your credentials have leaked.The less you reveal, the safer you stay.  Update, review, repeat: Your digital identity depends on it Maintaining your digital identity is a daily practice, not a one-time setup.Regularly update your passwords and security settings. Review app permissions, device authorizations and wallet connections at least every few months. Incorporating biometric authentication (fingerprints or facial scans) adds a critical physical layer of protection beyond passwords.Understanding how hackers manipulate crypto — from phishing for private keys to setting traps with fake decentralized applications (DApps) — is what keeps you a step ahead. In today’s world, staying sharp about cybersecurity isn’t optional. It’s a basic survival skill, right up there with managing your money or protecting your home.The future will only become more digital and more decentralized. Defending your digital identity today means preserving your independence tomorrow.

by Cointelegraph by Nancy Lubale on April 29, 2025 at 10:27 am

Key takeaways:Bitcoin’s price consolidates as the market awaits President Trump’s 100-day speech.Over $4.7 billion in BTC has been withdrawn from exchanges since April 22, reducing supply and boosting price sensitivity to demand.Trump’s crypto policy clarity could spark a BTC surge, but tariffs may cap gains.Traders say Bitcoin price must clear key hurdles above $95,000 before continuing the uptrend to $100,000 and beyond.Bitcoin’s (BTC) price is consolidating in a tight range between $91,700 and $95,850, ahead of Trump’s 100-day commemorative rally.BTC/USD daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingView Market awaits Trump’s 100-day speechBitcoin investors have adopted a wait-and-see approach ahead of US President Donald Trump’s speech to commemorate his 100th day in the White House on April 29. Crypto-related policies have been prominently featured so far in Trump’s second-term presidency, but markets await crypto-specific regulatory updates on his economic policies.Clarity on his administration’s strategic Bitcoin reserve proposal could trigger a move toward $100,000. However, renewed focus on tariffs or aggressive budget cuts could weigh on broader markets and cap Bitcoin’s upside in the short term.Cryptocurrency betting platform Polymarket predicts a 24% chance of Trump mentioning “crypto” or “Bitcoin” in his 100-day speech today. Data from the platform showed users had poured more than $1 million into bets on the event.Polymarket odds of what Trump will say in his 100-day speech. Source: Polymarket Trump’s rhetoric could drive short-term price surges, just like in the past. For example, Bitcoin’s recent recovery from $74,400 to $94,000 was partly fueled by Trump’s comments that tariffs on goods from China "will come down substantially.” While the speech may spark optimism and price spikes, broader market dynamics, including tariffs and global trade tensions, could temper gains, as seen with recent crypto market fluctuations.Over $4.7 billion in BTC leave exchangesApart from possible positive comments from Trump, Bitcoin’s declining supply on exchanges supports the bullish case for a rally toward $100,000. Investors have withdrawn over 50,500 BTC (worth $4.7 billion) from exchanges since easing macroeconomic tensions sparked a marketwide rally.Bitcoin reserve on exchanges. Source: CryptoQuantLower exchange supply reduces available BTC for selling, amplifying price sensitivity to demand, which could rise after Tump’s speech.When $100,000 BTC price?Bitcoin price has been consolidating below the $96,000 level over the last seven days, as data from Cointelegraph Markets Pro and TradingView shows.“BTC is slowly compressing and making higher lows under 96K resistance,” said popular Bitcoin analyst AlphaBTC in an April 29 post on X. Related: Bitcoin targets $115K as BTC supply metric nears 'historic euphoria' zoneAs Cointelegraph reported, the $95,000 level is a key resistance that the bulls needed to overcome to secure the recovery.“The more attempts into the $95K, the more likely it will push through,” AlphaBTC asserted, adding that the squeeze will likely take Bitcoin to the sought-after 100,000 level.“I expect a bigger pullback, but probably not until 100K has been taken out.”BTC/USD 30-minute chart. Source: AlphaBTCWhile making similar observations, fellow analyst Daan Crypto Trades said, “BTC Price is compressing again the past few days after the move back into the previous range.”According to Daan Crypto Trades, a key level to watch on the downside is the 200-day simple moving average (SMA) within the $89,500 and $91,000 range.Major resistance levels are the $99,5000 local high and “the big psychological $100K area,” the analyst explained, adding:“Those are good levels to watch here in the intermediate term. Currently, it is just a waiting game of where this wants to head next in the short term.”BTC/USD daily chart. Source: Daan Crypto TradesAs Cointelegraph reported, healthy market fundamentals could propel Bitcoin price past $100,000 to new all-time highs. Meanwhile, Peter Chung, head of research at quantitative trading firm Presto, has reiterated his prediction that Bitcoin will reach $210,000 in 2025.This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

by Cointelegraph by Zoltan Vardai on April 29, 2025 at 9:41 am

BlackRock’s exchange-traded fund (ETF) bought nearly $1 billion worth of Bitcoin on behalf of its clients on April 28, with continued inflows providing “structural support” for Bitcoin’s price appreciation, according to market analysts.BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) ETF bought $970 million worth of Bitcoin (BTC) on April 28, its second-largest day of inflows on record after scooping up $1.12 billion of BTC on Nov. 7, 2024, Sosovalue data shows.IBIT ETF Inflows, all-time chart. Source: Sosovalue IBIT’s near $1 billion investment brought total net inflows to US spot BTC ETFs to just above $590 million, with all other ETFs realizing net negative outflows or remaining flat. ARK Invest’s ARKB ETF recorded the highest outflows of $226 million.Related: Bitcoin treasury firms driving $200T hyperbitcoinization — Adam Back“Nearly *$1bil* into iShares Bitcoin ETF today.. 2nd largest inflow since Jan 2024 inception. I still remember when there was “no demand,” Nate Geraci, the president of ETF Store advisory firm, wrote in an April 29 X post.BlackRock’s IBIT is the largest spot BTC ETF, with over $54 billion in assets under management, accounting for 51% of the total spot BTC ETF market share, Dune data shows.Bitcoin ETFs by market share. Source: DuneThe latest inflows make IBIT the world’s 33rd-largest ETF among crypto and traditional finance-based ETFs, according to data from ETF Database.Last week’s “ETF inflows and croproate buying” have been significant for Bitcoin’s recovery above $94,000, as retail investor interest continued to lag, Ryan Lee, chief analyst at Bitget Research, told Cointelegraph.Related: Bitcoin’s role as a reserve asset gains traction in US as states adoptETFs provide “structural” support for Bitcoin rallyBitcoin’s recovery over the past week was aided by over $3 billion worth of cumulative net inflows for the US spot Bitcoin ETFs, marking their second-highest week of investments since launch.The Bitcoin price posted its “strongest weekly gain since Trump’s election victory, but signs suggest another move could be brewing,” according to Nexo dispatch analyst Iliya Kalchev.“ETF inflows into spot Bitcoin products topped $3 billion last week — the highest since November — providing structural support that could fuel further upside,” the analyst told Cointelegraph.Bitcoin investments have previously been a significant driver of Bitcoin’s upside momentum. Bitcoin ETFs accounted for an estimated 75% of new investment into Bitcoin when it recaptured the $50,000 mark in February 2024, a month after the debut of the US spot Bitcoin ETFs.Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest, April 13 – 19

by Cointelegraph by Yashu Gola on April 29, 2025 at 9:36 am

Key takeaways:Bitcoin supply in profit has climbed back above 85%, nearing the classic euphoric area.Onchain data shows strong accumulation from new and momentum buyers with minimal profit-taking.Bitcoin could rally toward $110,000–$115,000 helped by a “max buying” zone.Bitcoin (BTC) is charging toward a potential new all-time high near $115,000, as a surge in profitable supply signals growing bullish momentum and a classic setup for market euphoria.Nearly 87% of Bitcoin supply in profitAs of April 28, approximately 86.9% of all Bitcoin coins were in profit, according to on-chain data resource CryptoQuant. Historically, the metric’s climb into the 85–90% range has signaled a transition from healthy optimism to speculative euphoria among traders.Between October and December 2024, for instance, Bitcoin’s price climbed from around $80,000 to over $100,000, a rally coinciding with Bitcoin’s profitable supply rising from under 80% to as high as 99%.Bitcoin percent supply in profit. Source: CryptoQuantIn his April 28 post, CryptoQuant-based analyst DarkFrost reminded that Bitcoin’s euphoric phases may not last for longer timeframes, leading to sharp corrections as holders begin realizing gains. BTC’s price established a record high of nearly $110,000 in January, with its profitable supply hitting 99%. But the cryptocurrency dropped by over 30% afterward. Similar profit-taking behaviors have led to price corrections in the past, as shown above.“Currently, the supply in profit has climbed back above 85%, which is fairly positive,” DarkFrost writes, noting that its recovery from the recent bottom of 75% is still better when compared to 45-50% lows witnessed during bear market corrections.Besides, the BTC supply in profit still remains below 90%. Crossing above 90% has historically preceded profit-taking behavior among traders, suggesting that there’s more room to grow for BTC prices in the coming days.DarkFrost argues:“Of course, there are certain levels that are more "comfortable" than others, but generally, an increase in the supply in profit tends to fuel bullish phases.” Additional onchain data also supports the bullish outlook. Bitcoin’s First Buyers and Momentum Buyers are actively accumulating, while Profit Takers remain relatively quiet, according to Glassnode metric tracking BTC’s cumulative supply per cohort.BTC relative strength index of cumulative supply per cohort. Source: GlassnodeThis means fresh demand is coming in without heavy selling, a key ingredient for keeping the rally strong as anticipated by DarkFrost in the analysis above.Bitcoin “max buying” zone hints at $115,000In late April, Bitcoin bounced strongly from the $89,000–$90,000 support zone, a key horizontal level from prior price action strengthening the case for more upside. The area, according to chartist CryptoCaesarTA, now acts as a “max buying” zone where buyers have aggressively stepped in to limit Bitcoin’s drawdowns.BTC/USD weekly price chart. Source: TradingView/CryptoCaesarTABelow it, the $70,000–$72,000 region remains untested, aligning closely with the long-term ascending trendline. If Bitcoin faces deeper pullbacks, this zone could serve as a critical secondary support.For now, Bitcoin’s resilience above $90,000 keeps the bulls firmly in control. Related: 5 Bitcoin charts predicting BTC price rally toward $100K by MayA breakout above the $100,000 psychological barrier could pave the way toward new all-time highs at $110,000–$115,000, according to CryptoCaesarTA. The upside target aligns with previous resistance highs and a so-called "weak high" zone on the weekly chart above.This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.

by Cointelegraph by Amin Haqshanas on April 29, 2025 at 9:05 am

DeFi protocol Loopscale has recovered nearly half of the funds stolen during a major exploit over the weekend, as white hat negotiations with the attacker show signs of progress.In an April 29 update posted to X, Loopscale confirmed that approximately 19,463 Wrapped SOL (WSOL) (worth roughly $2.88 million) have been returned to its wallets since April 28.The first two returns included 10,000 WSOL (~$1.48 million) and 4,463 WSOL (~$660,000), following an earlier recovery of 5,000 WSOL (~$740,000).“Our pursuit of an amicable resolution regarding Saturday’s incident continues to make progress,” the team wrote.Loopscale updating community on negotiations progress. Source: LoopscaleRelated: DeFi platform KiloEx to compensate users impacted by $7.5M hackLoopscale offers 10% bounty for return of fundsOn April 27, Loopscale’s team said it had sent an onchain message to the exploiter, offering them a 10% bounty and a full release of liability in exchange for the return of 90% of the stolen funds.The team warned that if no agreement were reached within 24 hours, it would contact law enforcement.At 3:52 pm Eastern Time on April 28, Loopscale announced it had received a response from the exploiter, who indicated willingness to negotiate a return in exchange for a bounty.The exploit occurred on April 26, when manipulation of Loopscale’s RateX PT token pricing functions led to the theft of approximately $5.7 million in USDC (USDC) and 1,200 Solana (SOL) from its USDC and SOL vaults.The stolen amount represented about 12% of the platform’s total funds and impacted only vault depositors, not borrowers or loopers.While recoveries are not very common in decentralized finance, there have been more instances of successful fund returns as of late.Related: WazirX confirms restart on track as it awaits sanction hearing in MayOn April 27, Ethereum-based lending protocol Term Finance said it had recovered $1 million of the $1.6 million lost in an incident involving a misconfigured oracle on its Treehouse (tETH) market.The team said 223 Ether (ETH) was recaptured internally, and another 333 ETH was recovered through negotiations.Term Finance explaining their recovery progress. Source: Term FinanceIn the first quarter of 2025, hackers stole more than $1.6 billion worth of crypto from exchanges and onchain smart contracts, blockchain security firm PeckShield said in an April report. More than 90% of those losses are attributable to a $1.5 billion attack on Bybit, a centralized cryptocurrency exchange, by North Korean hacking outfit Lazarus Group.Magazine: Bitcoin $100K hopes on ice, SBF’s mysterious prison move: Hodler’s Digest, April 20 – 26

by Julia Bergin on April 29, 2025 at 9:04 am

An inner-city Melbourne mayor has been granted an interim personal safety intervention order against the head of Council Watch, Dean Hurlston, over alleged harassment. 

by Cointelegraph by Helen Partz on April 29, 2025 at 8:50 am

Alex Mashinsky, the founder and former CEO of the now-defunct cryptocurrency lending platform Celsius, faces a 20-year prison sentence as the US Department of Justice (DOJ) seeks a severe penalty for his role in a multibillion-dollar fraud.The DOJ on April 28 filed the government’s sentencing memorandum against Mashinsky, recommending a 20-year prison sentence for his fraudulent actions, which led to billions of dollars in losses for Celsius customers.The 97-page memo mentioned that Celsius users were unable to access approximately $4.7 billion in crypto assets after the platform halted withdrawals on June 12, 2022.“The Court should sentence Alexander Mashinsky to twenty years’ imprisonment as just punishment for his years-long campaign of lies and self-dealing that left in its wake billions in losses and thousands of victimized customers,” the DOJ stated.Mashinsky’s personal benefit was $48 millionIn addition to the investor losses, the DOJ noted that Mashinsky has personally profited from the fraudulent schemes in his role.As part of his guilty plea in December 2024, Mashinsky admitted that he was the leader of the criminal activity at Celsius, that his crimes resulted in losses in excess of $550 million, and that he personally benefited more than $48 million, the DOJ said.An excerpt from the government’s sentencing memorandum against Celsius founder Alex Mashinsky. Source: CourtListenerThe DOJ highlighted that Mashinsky’s guilty plea showed that his crimes were “not the product of negligence, naivete, or bad luck,” but rather the result of “deliberate, calculated decisions to lie, deceive, and steal in pursuit of personal fortune.”Related: Prosecutors seek over 6 years prison for Mango Markets exploiterThe memorandum came days before Mashinsky’s sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for May 8, and will be presided over by US District Judge John Koeltl in the Southern District of New York.Previously, former SEC Chair Jay Clayton, who was sworn in as interim US Attorney for Manhattan last week, shared in an April 23 letter that at least 200 victims filed statements in the case against Mashinsky.Other Celsius co-foundersWhile Mashinsky emerged as a key figure in the Celsius fraud, others were involved in the massive cryptocurrency scam, including Shlomi Daniel Leon, who co-founded Celsius with Mashinsky in 2017.Formerly the chief strategy officer (CSO) of Celsius, Leon quit his job in October 2022, months after Celsius’ collapse in June.Celsius CSO Shlomi Daniel Leon (left) and Celsius co-founder Alex Mashinsky. Source: Calcalistech In July 2023, the Federal Trade Commission charged Leon, along with Mashinsky and another co-founder, Hanoch Goldstein, and issued a $4.7 billion fine against the bankrupt lender.Magazine: Bitcoin $100K hopes on ice, SBF’s mysterious prison move: Hodler’s Digest, April 20 – 26

by Stephen Clarke on April 29, 2025 at 8:43 am

A court has heard how the mother of a woman, whose dead body was left on a Brisbane apartment verandah for months, was allegedly tricked into sending hundreds of thousands of dollars to her alleged killer.

by Cointelegraph by William Suberg on April 29, 2025 at 8:34 am

Key points:Bitcoin has beaten out three key resistance levels in a single weekly candle.The weekly close defended the 2025 yearly open, but a subsequent dip below it is making analysis question the strength of the BTC price breakout.BTC/USD remains in a “critical zone” pending fresh support confirmations.Bitcoin (BTC) has broken through three key resistance levels in a week, but its biggest reclaim battle continues.Analysis from sources including popular trader and analyst Rekt Capital underscores BTC price acting in a critical area for bulls.Bitcoin breaks through “triple resistance”Bitcoin’s latest weekly candle saw a reclaim of a full three resistance lines, Rekt Capital reveals.In addition to horizontal weekly resistance, BTC/USD broke beyond a multimonth downtrend previously discussed by Cointelegraph, as well as the 21-week exponential moving average (EMA).“Bitcoin broke them all last week,” Rekt Capital commented in a post on X while uploading an illustrative chart.“Bitcoin broke the Triple Resistance.”BTC/USD 1-week chart with 21, 50 EMA. Source: Rekt Capital/XAnother post highlights Bitcoin leaving both the 21-week and 50-week EMAs behind, with these traditionally offering bull market support.“Bitcoin has repeated mid-2021 price history with a breakout from its range formed by the two Bull Market EMAs,” Rekt Capital summarized.BTC/USD 1-week chart with 21, 50 EMA comparison. Source: Rekt Capital/XBTC price weakness worries lingerFor some, however, the real test for the current BTC price rebound lies elsewhere.Related: A 'local top' and $88K retest? 5 things to know in Bitcoin this weekIn his latest YouTube video analysis on April 28, Keith Alan, co-founder of trading resource Material Indicators, drew attention to Bitcoin’s ongoing battle to reclaim the 2025 yearly open.At around $93,500, this level forms the key focus moving forward, with a brief dip below it after the weekly close leaving Alan concerned.“It’s one of the reasons why I think we could see more downside volatility,” he said while acknowledging the potential benefits of a fresh support retest.Alan added that he hoped the 21-week simple moving average (SMA) would hold, but that price was in a “critical zone.”Short-term BTC price magnets also include $94,000 thanks to a wall of bids in place on the Binance futures order book.The buy liquidity was flagged and uploaded to X by monitoring resource CoinGlass on April 29.Binance Bitcoin futures liquidity data. Source: CoinGlass/X This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

on April 29, 2025 at 8:23 am

North Melbourne's Paul Curtis remains suspended for three matches after losing his challenge to a rough conduct charge at the AFL tribunal. 

by Cointelegraph by Shailey Singh on April 29, 2025 at 8:10 am

What is the Paws Telegram Mini App? Paws is a Telegram-based Mini App created by the same team behind other projects, such as Notcoin and Dogs. If you’ve been cruising around Telegram lately, chances are you’ve stumbled upon Paws, the viral crypto Mini App that’s got everyone tapping, clicking and inviting their friends like it’s 2010 FarmVille all over again. Originally launched in October 2024 on The Open Network (TON) blockchain, Paws exploded in popularity with its ultra-simple tap-to-earn concept. Think of it as a gamified rewards engine embedded directly in Telegram, where users rack up points by completing tasks, referring others and interacting with mini-game elements. Within just eight days of going live, Paws pulled in over 20 million users, and within a few months, that figure soared past 80 million.But the real twist? Paws, in March 2025, migrated from TON to Solana, a move that brought more scalability, lower fees and deeper integration with a broader decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem. Alongside this shift came the launch of the PAWS token — used for governance, staking, in-game purchases and more — positioning Paws as more than just a viral hit. The app’s core philosophy is simple: You create value every time you engage online, so why not earn for it? With no extra downloads needed, Paws is frictionless. You just activate the bot on Telegram (@PAWSOG_bot), and you’re in. From there, it’s all about interacting: tap items, read posts, join groups, complete quizzes, and get rewarded with points that convert into real tokens.So, is it legit? Before answering that, we’ll unpack how it actually works. How does the Paws Telegram Mini App actually work? Paws has a simplified interactive interface that allows users to earn points and stay involved in its gamified engagement economy.Once you launch the Mini App via its official Telegram bot, you’re welcomed into a digital world that rewards you for social activity. You’re not mining crypto, solving puzzles or trading tokens — you’re completing micro-tasks like tapping virtual objects, joining Telegram channels, referring friends or answering simple quizzes.Every action earns you points, which are later converted into PAWS tokens. These tokens can then be staked, used in Paws’ upcoming in-app economy, or possibly traded depending on future listings. The simplicity is what makes it addictive, and the referral model makes it viral.And here’s the kicker: You don’t even need a separate wallet app. The Paws Mini App syncs with existing wallets like Phantom on Solana or Telegram-native wallets (TON-based). It’s designed for ease, especially for people new to crypto. Why Paws migrated to Solana and why it matters At first, Paws ran on TON, but in a move that surprised some and excited others, Paws announced a major shift to Solana in early 2025.In early 2025, Telegram introduced a policy mandating that all Mini Apps and third-party crypto wallets on its platform exclusively operate on TON. This move forced projects like Paws to choose between remaining confined to TON or migrating to a different blockchain.Paws opted to migrate to Solana, a decision that has had significant implications:​User base migration: Over 80 million Paws users transitioned to Solana, leading to more than 9 million downloads of the Phantom crypto wallet and the creation of over 1 million new Solana addresses. NFT integration: PAWS introduced non-fungible token (NFT) vouchers on the Solana-based marketplace Magic Eden, resulting in over 100,000 transactions within two weeks.Ecosystem expansion: The migration has allowed Paws to evolve from a viral Telegram application into a full-fledged Web3 brand, with plans to integrate DeFi features, gaming partnerships and social engagement tools.This strategic move not only circumvented Telegram’s restrictive policies but also positioned Paws to leverage Solana’s scalability and active DeFi ecosystem, paving the way for broader adoption and innovation.Did you know? The migration to Solana led to over 9 million new downloads of Phantom Wallet, with more than 1 million fresh Solana addresses created by Paws users. That’s one of the biggest onboarding waves in Solana’s history. The PAWS airdrop: What you need to know No viral Web3 game is complete without an airdrop, and Paws is no exception.Users who engage with the app, tapping, referring and completing tasks earn points, which are later converted into PAWS tokens. These tokens are distributed via an airdrop, and the team has already completed early reward rounds with plans for future drops as the ecosystem expands.The PAWS token officially launched on March 18, 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the key events that took place:​March 11-15: Withdrawals opened to exchanges.March 17: Token deposits became available on exchanges.March 18: Withdrawals to Phantom Wallet and the official PAWS listing commenced.​The airdrop distribution was as follows:​62.5% allocated to Paws app users.7.5% reserved for established Solana communities.The remaining percentage is designated for ecosystem growth, partnerships and liquidity.Despite the successful migration and platform enhancements, the PAWS token launch faced some challenges:​Price volatility: The token experienced a significant drop in value shortly after launch.Airdrop confusion: Many users were unsure about eligibility criteria, leading to dissatisfaction.Communication gaps: Delays and a lack of clear communication regarding the token generation event (TGE) affected community trust on X.As of April 2025, the PAWS token is listed on a few exchanges, including Bybit, MEXC and KuCoin. There’s growing speculation that listings on more centralized exchanges (CEXs) may follow, especially given the size of the community and early engagement.Did you know? After migrating to Solana, Paws launched NFT vouchers on Magic Eden. In just two weeks, these NFTs generated over 100,000 transactions. Is Paws legit or just another hype train? Paws has demonstrated substantial growth and user engagement; however, users must do their own research before joining in. Let’s get to the big question: Is Paws legit?Paws has demonstrated substantial growth and user engagement. The following help to make a better assessment on how to approach Paws:​Pros:Developed by a team with a track record (Notcoin and Dogs).Successful migration to Solana indicates long-term planning and future orientation.Rapid user adoption and community growth.​Cons:Limited transparency with no public team page or comprehensive white paper.Potential for bot-driven airdrop farming, as has been seen on Telegram Mini Apps.The project is navigating regulatory uncertainty, particularly as airdrops via Telegram Mini Apps remain in a legal gray area, often lacking clear Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements.So, what’s the verdict? While Paws appears to be a well-used platform for casual engagement, users should conduct thorough research and exercise caution, especially when considering financial investments. What’s next for Paws? As the platform matures and cements its place, the team behind it has hinted at a much bigger vision: one that turns Paws from a simple viral game into a dynamic Web3 super app. Here’s what’s reportedly on the roadmap:In-app marketplace: Users will soon be able to spend their PAWS tokens within an integrated marketplace. This could include digital goods, services and utility items tied to the app’s gaming ecosystem, such as power-ups, skins or access to exclusive features.NFT rewards and avatar customization: Paws plans to introduce customizable avatars powered by NFTs. These will not only let users personalize their experience but also function as tradable digital assets. The team has already launched early NFT vouchers on Solana’s Magic Eden, showing a clear direction toward gamified asset ownership.Social leaderboards and guild mechanics: Paws is building out more community-first features. Competitive social leaderboards will reward the most active players, while upcoming guild mechanics will allow users to team up, compete and share rewards, blending social gaming with decentralized coordination.DeFi integrations: With its migration to Solana, PAWS has opened the door to deeper DeFi utility. Upcoming features could include staking, lending pools, yield-based games or partnerships with native Solana DeFi protocols, adding more financial layers to the Paws economy.With a user base now exceeding 80 million and growing, Paws is laying the groundwork to evolve into a full-blown Web3 social and gaming hub — though its rapid rise also warrants caution, as regulatory clarity and long-term sustainability remain key concerns.

by Tom Lowrey on April 29, 2025 at 7:34 am

The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church denies organising volunteers for Coalition campaigns, but says members are free to volunteer on their own.

by Cointelegraph by Amin Haqshanas on April 29, 2025 at 7:30 am

Decentralized exchange (DEX) aggregator 1inch has launched on Solana, marking a significant step toward its vision of a “unified multichain” decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem.According to a press release shared with Cointelegraph, the integration enables users to trade over 1 million Solana-based tokens directly through the 1inch decentralized application (DApp), benefiting from maximal extractable value-protected swaps, optimized rates and open-source smart contract infrastructure.The move brings 1inch’s Fusion protocol to Solana for the first time. Fusion enables users to define their ideal swap parameters, which are then executed by competing professional market makers, or “resolvers,” using Dutch auction mechanics.Combined with Solana’s ultra-fast block times, the setup promises more efficient and seamless trading execution than other networks.A 1inch representative told Cointelegraph that users could expect “minimal fees” when executing swaps on Solana. “Users may expect costs of less than one cent,” they said.Related: Solana’s Loopscale pauses lending after $5.8M hack1inch to launch crosschain swaps for SolanaIn addition to enabling Solana-based swaps, 1inch revealed plans to roll out crosschain functionality in the coming months, aiming to allow swaps between Solana and more than 10 other blockchains already supported by 1inch.“At this stage, there is no fixed launch date,” the 1inch representative said. “However, development is progressing well, and we expect the feature to go live in the coming months.”1inch’s crosschain swaps functionality. Source: 1inchThe representative said that crosschain swaps will initially support the 10 blockchains already integrated into 1inch’s crosschain swap ecosystem. The final list will be confirmed closer to launch.1inch’s expansion into Solana comes as the blockchain has outperformed Ethereum and layer-2 networks in several key DeFi metrics.Over the past three months, it posted a 33% higher DEX trading volume ($539 billion), handled 400% more transactions, and hosted 180% more active addresses than its rivals, according to data from Dune Analytics.Related: Solana whale sits on $153M profit after 4-year staking play“Both Solana and Ethereum play critical roles in the evolving DeFi landscape,” the 1inch representative said.They said that while Ethereum’s network effects and liquidity depth continue to dominate today, Solana’s performance improvements and growing adoption make it a serious contender.The integration also includes access to six APIs through the 1inch Developer Portal, giving builders tools to create new DApps and services on top of the 1inch-Solana infrastructure.On Sept. 12, 2024, 1inch first revealed the details of its solution to crosschain interoperability issues when it published a white paper about the intent-based, crosschain interoperability protocol it was developing. On Sept. 18, 2024, the DEX aggregator revealed “Fusion+” to allow users to swap their digital assets crosschain while retaining self-custody of the assets. Magazine: Ethereum is destroying the competition in the $16.1T TradFi tokenization race

by Andrew Williams and Stan Shaw on April 29, 2025 at 7:26 am

Dardanup locals say they are angry and disheartened over the state government's decision to approve the disposal of toxic "forever chemicals" at a nearby waste facility.

by Tom Lowrey on April 29, 2025 at 7:24 am

The Liberals and the Nationals are both eyeing off working class seats that were once unquestionably Labor territory, but has the Coalition's nuclear policy blown wind farms out of the water as an issue for voters?

by Baz Ruddick on April 29, 2025 at 7:21 am

Katter's Australia Party MP Nick Dametto says police have issued him with a caution for breaking alcohol restriction laws in a Palm Island Aboriginal community.

by Stephanie Dalzell on April 29, 2025 at 7:09 am

The Coalition has turned from cost of living to culture wars, the prime minister doesn't want to talk about any threats to Australia's AAA credit rating and millions of people are voting early.

by Cointelegraph by Helen Partz on April 29, 2025 at 6:53 am

The concept of a Russian ruble stablecoin received special attention at a major local crypto event, the Blockchain Forum in Moscow, with key industry executives reflecting on some of the core features a ruble-backed stablecoin might require.Sergey Mendeleev, founder of the digital settlement exchange Exved and inactive founder of the sanctioned Garantex exchange, put forward seven key criteria for a potential “replica of Tether” in a keynote at the Blockchain Forum on April 23.Mendeleev said a potential ruble stablecoin must have untraceable transactions and allow transfers without Know Your Customer (KYC) checks.However, because one of the criteria also requires the stablecoin to comply with Russian regulations, he expressed skepticism that such a product could emerge soon.The DAI model praised Mendeleev proposed that a potential Russian “Tether replica” must be overcollateralized similarly to the Dai (DAI) stablecoin model, a decentralized algorithmic stablecoin that maintains its one-to-one peg with the US dollar using smart contracts.“So, any person who buys it will understand that the contract is based on the assets that super-securitize it, not somewhere on some unknown accounts, but free to be checked by simple crypto methods,” he said.Source: CointelegraphAnother must-have feature should be excess liquidity on both centralized and decentralized exchanges, Mendeleev said, adding that users must be able to exchange the stablecoin at any time they need.According to Mendeleev, a viable ruble-pegged stablecoin also needs to offer non-KYC transactions, so users are not required to pass their data to start using it.“The Russian ruble stablecoin should have the opportunity where people use it without disclosing their data,” he stated.Related: Russia’s central bank, finance ministry to launch crypto exchangeIn the meantime, users should be able to earn interest on holding the stablecoin, Mendelev continued, adding that offering this feature is available via smart contracts.Russia opts for centralizationMendeleev also suggested that a potential Russian version of Tether’s USDt (USDT) would need to feature untraceable and cheap transactions, while its smart contracts should not enable blocks or freezes.The final criterion is that a potential ruble stablecoin would have to be regulated in accordance with the Russian legislation, which currently doesn’t look promising, according to Mendeleev.Sergey Mendeleev at the Blockchain Forum in Moscow. Source: Bits.Media“Once we put these seven points together [...] then it would be a real alternative, which would help us at least compete with the solutions that are currently on the market,” he stated at the conference, adding:“Unfortunately, from the point of view of regulation, we are currently going in the absolutely opposite direction [...] We are going in the direction of absolute centralization, not in the direction of liberalization of laws, but consolidation of prohibitions.”Possible solutionsWhile the regulatory side is not looking good, a potential Russian version of USDT is technically feasible, Mendeleev told Cointelegraph.“Except for anonymous transactions, everything is easy to implement and has already been deployed by several projects, but it’s just not unified in one project yet,” he said.The crypto advocate specifically referred to interesting opportunities by projects like the ruble-pegged A7A5 stablecoin, unblockable contracts at DAI, and others.Related: Russian crypto exchange Mosca raided amid cash-to-crypto ban talksRegulation is necessary but not enough, Mendeleev said, adding that the most difficult part is the trust of users who must see the ruble stablecoin as a viable alternative to major alternatives like USDT.Recent reports suggest that the deputy head of Russia’s Finance Ministry’s financial policy department urged the government to develop ruble stablecoins.Elsewhere, the Bank of Russia has continued to progress its central bank digital currency project, the digital ruble. According to Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, the digital ruble is scheduled to be rolled out for commercial banks in the second half of 2025.Magazine: Bitcoin $100K hopes on ice, SBF’s mysterious prison move: Hodler’s Digest, April 20 – 26

on April 29, 2025 at 6:42 am

Jamarra Ugle-Hagan takes a leave of absence from the Western Bulldogs as he deals with personal issues. 

by Brooke Fryer on April 29, 2025 at 6:37 am

Twenty-year-old Barkandji woman Laylah Al-Saimary is running for the Senate this federal election. She’s a member of the first all-Indigenous party in Australia's history. 

on April 29, 2025 at 6:23 am

Two-time grand slam doubles champion Max Purcell accepts an 18-month doping ban from the International Tennis Integrity Agency.

by Cointelegraph by Stephen Katte on April 29, 2025 at 6:13 am

A trio of major Abu Dhabi institutions, including the Emirate’s sovereign wealth fund, have teamed up to launch a new dirham-pegged stablecoin.Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund ADQ, the United Arab Emirates’ largest bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), and the massive conglomerate the International Holding Company, have partnered to launch the stablecoin, pending regulatory approval, the three companies said on April 28.The trio said the stablecoin would be regulated by the UAE’s central bank and backed by the country’s currency, the dirham. It will also support use cases such as machine-to-machine and artificial intelligence.Source: IHCThe goal is to place the UAE at the “forefront of global blockchain innovation,” while also strengthening the digital infrastructure, according to ADQ.If it gets the nod from regulators, the new stablecoin will operate on the ADI blockchain, created by the ADI Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping established financial systems and governments advance and adopt blockchain technology.Established in 2018, ADQ is a sovereign wealth fund focused on critical infrastructure and global supply chains. Meanwhile, IHC is one of the UAE’s largest investment firms and conglomerates with a market value of over $243 billion that has ties to the ruling family of Abu Dhabi, the country’s capital.FAB is the largest bank in the UAE, formed in 2017 through a merger between First Gulf Bank and National Bank of Abu Dhabi.Countries line up to challenge US dollar stablecoinsOther countries have also announced plans to launch stablecoins backed by currencies other than the US dollar.The market cap of US dollar-denominated stablecoins crossed $230 billion in April, an increase of 54% since last year, with Tether (USDT) and USDC (USDC) dominating 90% of the market.Related: UAE stablecoin issuer gets nod from central bankA Russian finance ministry official has floated a plan for the country to develop its own stablecoin after a freeze on wallets linked to the sanctioned Russian exchange Garantex by US authorities and stablecoin issuer Tether. However, an April 23 report from investment banking giant Citigroup predicts the stablecoin supply will remain US dollar-denominated, with non-US countries promoting national or central bank digital currency.Magazine: DeFi will rise again after memecoins die down: Sasha Ivanov, X Hall of Flame

by James Tugwell on April 29, 2025 at 6:10 am

Construction of the Molonglo River bridge is causing temporary road closures and traffic delays as residents express concern the area lacks the infrastructure to support predicted population growth.

by Sonya Gee on April 29, 2025 at 6:05 am

Baking for an election day cake stall? Check out our one-bowl cakes, plus easy biscuits and slice recipes.

by Malcolm Sutton on April 29, 2025 at 5:54 am

With many rainwater tanks across the Adelaide Hills running low or on empty due to an ongoing dry spell, two residents say thieves have used water trucks to steal nearly 200,000 litres overnight.

by Georgie Burgess on April 29, 2025 at 5:50 am

The big moment of releasing a group of juvenile spotted handfish into the wild has arrived — and to help them adjust, researchers have built little underwater "hotels" for the young fish.

by Emma Wynne on April 29, 2025 at 5:41 am

The independent school has been designed to help teenagers with autism reach their full potential while exploring their interests.

by Kristian Silva on April 29, 2025 at 5:37 am

Victorian prosecutors drop some of the charges against Ms Patterson, as the 50-year-old's Supreme Court murder trial gets under way in the regional town of Morwell.

by Lottie Twyford on April 29, 2025 at 5:35 am

Kate Cooper died at Mapleton Falls in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland last Friday. Her devastated partner says she was a brave and beautiful person who loved nature and was "everyone's best friend".

by Jack McKay, Lexy Hamilton-Smith, Peter Sanders, and Jessica Haynes on April 29, 2025 at 5:33 am

With polls indicating the Coalition may need preferences from right-leaning candidates to secure key seats, Trumpet of Patriots and One Nation could play a decisive role in how the election plays out.

by Claudia Long on April 29, 2025 at 5:29 am

Across the country candidates are making their case for how they can put a lid on the rising cost of everything, but if the cost-of-living debate shows anything this election, it’s just how many people still feel forgotten.

by Nicolas Perpitch on April 29, 2025 at 5:24 am

A judge says the results of a psychologist's report into a woman who hit a 12-year-old girl with her car was "just not adding up", causing a sentencing delay.

by Cointelegraph by Brayden Lindrea on April 29, 2025 at 5:24 am

The founders of the crypto fintech firm Bankera used funds from the project’s 2018 initial coin offering to purchase luxury properties worldwide, according to a report by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project.The OCCRP reported on April 28, citing leaked company records and bank statements, that nearly half of the funds from Bankera’s 100 million euro ($114 million) ICO were transferred to a bank in the Pacific Island country of Vanuatu that was purchased by the project’s founders, Vytautas Karalevičius, Justas Dobiliauskas and Mantas Mockevičius.Soon after, the Vanuatu bank reportedly began issuing millions of euros in loans to companies owned by the trio to build a luxury real estate portfolio — including a villa in the French Riviera and high-end property in Lithuania, where the project was founded.Bankera’s three founders. Source: BankeraThe leaked records and statements reportedly show that the funds were used to underwrite loans to other companies, which were then used to purchase high-end real estate. The Vanuatu bank also loaned millions more directly to the three founders for “personal use,” according to the OCCRP report.Lawyers representing the founders reportedly denied that the ICO was fraudulent but declined to comment on specific transactions. Cointelegraph contacted Bankera for comment but did not receive an immediate response.Bankera over-promised, under-deliveredBankera pledged to become the “bank for the blockchain era,” offering a suite of retail and institutional investment services while holding and exchanging most of the largest cryptocurrencies.Many investors were attracted to the Bankera (BNK) token ICO by the promise of discounted rates on Bankera’s services and products, along with the opportunity to earn weekly BNK payouts.However, an investor in Bankera’s ICO told the OCCRP that those weekly payouts began to “drop significantly below the promised amount.”The revenue-sharing scheme was reportedly halted in 2022.Related: Tether scales crypto payments in Eastern Europe with new investmentBankera also reportedly promised to obtain a European Union banking license, which is yet to materialize.Despite the 100 million euro ICO raise, the fully diluted value of the BNK token is currently at $975,710, CoinGecko data shows.Bankera continues to provide crypto-related banking services and maintains an active social media presence on LinkedIn and, to a lesser extent, X.Magazine: Financial nihilism in crypto is over — It’s time to dream big again

by Cointelegraph by Stephen Katte on April 29, 2025 at 5:13 am

Researchers at the University of Zurich have been accused of undertaking an unauthorized four-month-long experiment on a Reddit board using artificial intelligence-generated comments to test whether AI could alter people’s opinions. As part of the experiment, AI-powered accounts faked a variety of personas, including a rape victim, a person opposed to specific social movements and a trauma counselor specializing in abuse, moderators of the r/changemyview subreddit said in an April 26 post.“Our sub is a decidedly human space that rejects undisclosed AI as a core value,” the moderators said. “People do not come here to discuss their views with AI or to be experimented upon.” The researchers used AI to generate responses but attempted to personalize the replies based on information from the original posters’ prior Reddit history, such as political orientation, gender, age, and ethnicity, according to a draft of the paper.Moderators of the r/changemyview subreddit say researchers at the University of Zurich conducted an unauthorized experiment within their community. Source: RedditOver the four-month experiment, Zurich University’s fake AI accounts posted 1,783 comments and received 137 deltas — a mark showing when another Reddit user acknowledged the account had persuaded them to change their opinion on an issue. The researchers said in a post to the subreddit that all comments were manually reviewed before posting to ensure they met the community guidelines and to “minimize potential harm.”The university team argued that the potential benefits of this research substantially outweigh its risks. Source: RedditThe university team argued that the “potential benefits of this research substantially outweigh its risks” because they have found that the large language models used in the experiment can be highly persuasive, surpassing all “previously known benchmarks of human persuasiveness.”“Our controlled, low-risk study provided valuable insight into the real-world persuasive capabilities of LLMs — capabilities that are already easily accessible to anyone and that malicious actors could already exploit at scale for far more dangerous reasons,” the researchers said. At the same time, the researchers said the experiment shows that distinguishing humans from AI still faces significant challenges because nobody in the subreddit discovered the AI bots during the entire experiment. The r/changemyview board has 3.8 million members and ranks among the top 1% of subreddits by size.Reddit considers legal options The Reddit board’s moderators said they were unaware of the experiment and have asked the university for an apology and to block the publication of the research. Reddit might also be considering legal action, as the platform’s chief legal officer, Ben Lee, said in a follow-up April 28 post that the experiment broke the site’s user agreement and rules, and all known accounts associated with the University of Zurich research effort were now banned. “We are in the process of reaching out to the University of Zurich and this particular research team with formal legal demands,” Lee said. “We want to do everything we can to support the community and ensure that the researchers are held accountable for their misdeeds here,” he added. Related: White House receives over 10,000 comments on AI development planIn its response to the subreddit, the University of Zurich’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences Ethics Commission said it had investigated the incident and promised to coordinate better with test subjects in the future. The lead investigator for the project was also issued a formal warning.“This project yields important insights, and the risks are minimal. This means that suppressing publication is not proportionate to the importance of the insights the study yields,” the ethics commission said. The University of Zurich did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Cointelegraph did not immediately receive a response to questions sent to an email address associated with the experiment.Magazine: Bitcoin $100K hopes on ice, SBF’s mysterious prison move: Hodler’s Digest

by Victoria Pengilley on April 29, 2025 at 5:05 am

Former NSW CFMEU leaders Darren Greenfield and son Michael reach a plea deal with prosecutors.

by Nick Sas, Chrisnrita Aumanu-Leong, and Stephen Dziedzic on April 29, 2025 at 4:43 am

A new coalition of Solomon Islands MPs that includes former prime minister Manasseh Sogavare says it has the numbers to oust the country's sitting prime minister, with a vote of no confidence set for next week. 

by Cointelegraph by Martin Young on April 29, 2025 at 4:39 am

US federal prosecutors and the co-founders of the crypto mixer Samourai Wallet have asked a court for more time to consider potentially dismissing the case after the Justice Department rolled back its crypto enforcement.Lawyers for Samourai Wallet CEO Keonne Rodriguez and chief technology officer William Hill said in an April 28 letter to Manhattan federal judge Richard Berman that they jointly requested with the government “for a continuance of the pretrial motions schedule by 16 days.”The Samourai executives' lawyers said on April 10 that they wrote to Acting Manhattan US Attorney Jay Clayton to request the dismissal of the case after an April 7 memo from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche shuttered the Justice Department’s crypto team.“On April 24, 2025, defense counsel met with the prosecutors and their supervisors in person at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to discuss this request,” the lawyers said.“The Defendants believe that a continuance of the pretrial motions schedule is warranted to permit Defendants to avoid the significant expense of preparing their motions while the Government determines its position,” the letter stated.It added that prosecutors agreed to adjourn “without expressing any views on the merits.”Samourai Wallet’s Rodriguez and Hill were charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and operating an unlicensed money transmitting business in April 2024, to which they both pleaded not guilty.Blanche’s memo said, “The Department of Justice is not a digital assets regulator,” and it would abandon enforcement and investigations besides those which “focus on prosecuting individuals who victimize digital asset investors, or those who use digital assets in furtherance of criminal offenses.”An excerpt of the letter to Judge Berman. Source: PACERCurrently, motions in the Samourai executives' case are due May 13, responses are due on June 10, and replies on June 24. The letter proposes to put this back to May 29 for motions, June 26 for responses, and July 10 for replies.The continuance would not affect the trial date, which is slated for early November. Quashing crypto litigation list lengthens The move is the latest in a long list of court actions to have prosecutors' crypto cases quashed under the Trump administration's favorable stance toward the industry. Related: SEC says it won’t re-file fraud case against Hex’s Richard Heart On April 9, SafeMoon CEO Braden John Karony, who is charged with wire fraud and money laundering, cited Blanche’s directive in a bid to get his case dismissed. Meanwhile, on April 28, the DeFi Education Fund petitioned the White House to drop charges against Tornado Cash co-founder Roman Storm and requested immediate action to “discontinue the Biden-era Department of Justice’s lawless campaign to criminalize open-source software development.” Magazine: Bitcoin $100K hopes on ice, SBF’s mysterious prison move: Hodler’s Digest

by Danielle Mahe on April 29, 2025 at 4:37 am

The state government's new tourism campaign shows a man riding an e-bike on a popular Gold Coast beach. But a cycling body says it sends the wrong message, as bikes on the sand pose a risk to beachgoers.

by Michael Janda on April 29, 2025 at 4:33 am

The major parties are working hard to keep Australian house prices at record highs, but a moderate fall in values may be just what Australia's economy needs in the long-term.

by Sundance on April 29, 2025 at 4:20 am

In an effort to keep the Daily Open Thread a little more open topic we are going to start a new daily thread for “Presidential Politics”. Please use this thread to post anything relating to the Donald Trump Administration and Presidency. This thread will refresh daily and appear above the Open Discussion Thread. Posted in The post April 29th – 2025 Presidential Politics – Trump Administration Day 100 appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Sundance on April 29, 2025 at 4:15 am

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. THY WILL BE DONE, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but DELIVER US FROM EVIL. The post Tuesday April 29th – Open Thread appeared first on The Last Refuge.

by Cointelegraph by Ezra Reguerra on April 29, 2025 at 3:58 am

While United States dollar-denominated stablecoins dominate the stablecoin and real-world asset (RWA) tokenization game, other competitors are coming into play, according to Tether co-founder Reeve Collins. Speaking to Cointelegraph in Dubai, Collins said that while dollar-backed stablecoins may be dominant, other currencies and assets may compete to back stablecoins.“The stablecoin definitely helps preserve the dollar dominance, especially in the crypto space,” Collins said. “The dollar is kind of the reserve currency of crypto. But now there are other currencies coming into play. But more importantly, it’s not currencies. It’s other types of backing,” he added.Collins said that other assets used to back stablecoins may compete with US dollars by bringing a higher yield to users. Interview with Tether co-founder Reeve Collins in Dubai, UAE. Source: Cointelegraph Tether co-founder says tokenized assets can back stablecoinsCollins, who works bringing stablecoin yield for users through Pi Protocol, told Cointelegraph that apart from currencies, money-market funds, other commodities and gold could back stablecoins in the future. “When you can back it with money market funds, for instance, that generate a higher yield than T-bills and other things like that that are coming onchain, where there’s a lot of yield that will be generated. Those will take precedence,” Collins said. Collins said these will “start winning” because they bring higher user returns. Furthermore, the executive also said RWA tokenization could play a role in stablecoin backing. The executive told Cointelegraph that since all types of assets can be tokenized, these can be used to back stablecoins in the future. “You’re going to have a lot of choices other than just dollars,” he added. Related: Tether boosts Juventus stake to 10% in latest strategic buyTrump-linked stablecoin lays foundation for the rest of the worldIn March, the World Liberty Financial (WLFI) project, backed by US President Donald Trump, launched its stablecoin on BNB Chain and Ethereum. However, the project said that the tokens were not tradable yet. According to Collins, the stablecoin entry of a Trump-backed project means that stablecoins are now “fully accepted.” The executive believes everyone will get involved in stablecoins because of the move. This includes institutions, governments and financial technology companies. “The President of the United States launched a stablecoin. It’s impressive. It lays the foundation for the rest of the world to do it as well,” he said. Magazine: Ethereum is destroying the competition in the $16.1T TradFi tokenization race