7 May 2025, 11:05

Ozark’s star Julia Garner eyes for role of Caroline Ellison in Netflix’s FTX series: report

The Emmy-winning Ozark star Julia Garner is reportedly set to headline Netflix’s dramatization of the FTX saga as Caroline Ellison. Julia Garner is reportedly in talks to play Caroline Ellison, a former top executive in Sam Bankman-Fried ‘s fallen crypto empire, in an upcoming Netflix limited series about the collapse of the FTX crypto exchange, Variety has learned , citing sources familiar with the matter. The role would reunite the Emmy-winning Ozark star with Netflix, where she also appeared in Inventing Anna, Maniac, and The Get Down. The series will follow the rise and fall of FTX through the lens of the relationship between Ellison and FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried. The untitled series would “explore the story of the infamous cryptocurrency exchange through the lens of the love story of Caroline Ellison and Sam Bankman-Fried,” Variety reported. Garner is also expected to serve as an executive producer on the project. Netflix has reportedly ordered eight episodes, with filming scheduled to begin this summer. Graham Moore, who won an Academy Award for The Imitation Game, will serve as writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner. Jacqueline Hoyt, known for The Leftovers and The Good Wife, will also be executive producer and co-showrunner. You might also like: Caroline Ellison turns in all her assets in FTX lawsuit settlement Other executive producers include Barack and Michelle Obama under their Higher Ground banner, Vinnie Malhotra, Scoop Wasserstein of Scoop Productions, and Lauren Morelli. James Ponsoldt will direct the first episode and executive produce as well. FTX collapsed in November 2022 amid allegations of embezzlement and misappropriation of billions of dollars in customer funds involving its owners and affiliated hedge fund Alameda Research. Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of the exchange, was sentenced to 25 years in prison and ordered to reimburse $11 billion. Caroline Ellison pleaded guilty to conspiracy and financial fraud charges, and was sentenced to 24 months in prison. Read more: Why did Caroline Ellison get such a light sentence?

7 May 2025, 11:04

Binance adds monitoring tag to MOVE following market maker scandal and rebrand

Binance has applied the monitoring tag to six additional tokens, most notably including Movement Labs’ MOVE. The token was previously embroiled in a market maker scandal and the project has since relaunched under a new name. According to a recent notice , the crypto exchange has decided to apply the monitoring tag to a number of tokens, including Movement Labs’ native token MOVE ( MOVE ). This follows the protocol’s recent rebranding announcement that involves changing its name to Move Industries and removing co-founder Rushi Manche. “Tokens with the Monitoring Tag exhibit notably higher volatility and risks compared to other listed tokens,” noted the exchange in its statement. In addition to MOVE, Binance has also added the monitoring tag to Stella’s ALPHA, Hifi Finance’s HIFI, LeverFi’s LEVER, PORTAL ( PORTAL ) and Rei Network’s REI. According to the announcement, tokens listed under the monitoring tag will be under constant surveillance by Binance. The exchange will conduct reviews of each token’s performance in accordance with its guidelines to determine whether it still warrants the monitoring tag. If tokens continue to exhibit volatility and trading risks or fail to meet listing criteria, they may be at risk of being delisted from the platform entirely. Price chart for MOVE in the past 24 hours of trading, May 7, 2025 | Source: CoinGecko Read more: Movement Labs drops co-founder Rushi Manche, appoints new leadership and rebrands Shortly after Binance’s announcement, MOVE slipped even further down from its ongoing decline. At press time, MOVE has gone down more than 12% in the past 24 hours. Compared to when the protocol first announced its rebrand, the token was still nearing a 10% decline at $0.16. The token is currently trading hands at $0.15. In the past month it has gone down nearly 50%, following the network’s market maker scandal earlier this month. Other mentioned tokens like REI, ALPHA and PORTAL also experienced declines shortly after Binance applied monitoring tags. ALPHA fell by more than 5%, REI plummeted as much as 12.5%, while PORTAL suffered the worst fall with a 17.1% decrease. On the other hand, HIFI and LEVER were able to maintain modest growth at 4.4% and 12.8% in the past 24 hours of trading. In addition to the higher trading risk warning, a monitoring tag on a token means that Binance users have to participate in a quiz every 90 days on the Binance Spot and Binance Margin platforms to trade the tokens. Users must also accept the platform’s terms of use periodically. You might also like: Binance founder proposes lowering BSC gas fees by three to 10 times

7 May 2025, 11:00

Bhutan Crypto Payments: Kingdom Welcomes Tourists with Digital Currency

The Kingdom of Bhutan, often celebrated for its stunning landscapes and unique approach to development, has just taken a significant leap into the digital age. In a move set to revolutionize travel finance, Bhutan is now enabling Bhutan crypto payments for tourists, making their visit even more seamless and modern. Embracing Digital Wallets: Bhutan Crypto Payments Go Live Imagine exploring the serene monasteries or trekking through the breathtaking Himalayas of Bhutan without worrying about traditional currency exchange or carrying large amounts of cash. Thanks to a groundbreaking partnership, this is now a reality. Bhutan has officially launched a system allowing tourists to make real-time payments using cryptocurrencies. This exciting development, announced via a post by Binance, sees Bhutan collaborating with global crypto giant Binance through its Binance Pay service, and integrating with the local financial infrastructure via DK Bank. This collaboration bridges the gap between digital assets and the traditional economy, offering unparalleled convenience for international visitors. How Does This Enable Crypto Payments for Tourists? The process is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly. Tourists visiting Bhutan can now use their Binance app to make payments directly to participating merchants. Here’s a quick breakdown of how it works: Initiate Payment: A tourist simply uses the Binance app on their smartphone. Select Cryptocurrency: The system supports a wide array of digital assets – over 100 cryptocurrencies are accepted, including major ones like Bitcoin (BTC), Binance Coin (BNB), and USD Coin (USDC). Real-Time Conversion: The magic happens instantly. When a payment is made in crypto, DK Bank facilitates the immediate conversion of the digital currency into the local Bhutanese currency, the Ngultrum (BTN). Instant Settlement: Merchants receive the payment in Ngultrum in real-time, eliminating volatility risk for them and providing certainty for the transaction. This seamless process means tourists don’t need to find currency exchange booths or worry about fluctuating rates while they are on the ground. It’s a modern solution for a modern traveler. What Does This Mean for Bhutan Tourism Crypto Adoption? This initiative positions Bhutan at the forefront of integrating cryptocurrency into the tourism sector. It signals a forward-thinking approach from the kingdom, known for its focus on high-value, low-impact tourism. By catering to the growing number of individuals holding cryptocurrencies, Bhutan is potentially opening its doors to a new demographic of tech-savvy travelers. The integration of Binance Pay tourism services provides a robust and widely recognized platform, leveraging Binance’s global reach and user base. This partnership lends credibility and accessibility to the system, making it easier for tourists already familiar with Binance to adopt this payment method during their travels. Benefits of Cryptocurrency Payments Bhutan The adoption of cryptocurrency payments Bhutan offers numerous advantages for both visitors and the local economy: For Tourists: Convenience: No need to carry large amounts of cash or constantly look for ATMs/exchange offices. Accessibility: Easy payment for anyone with a Binance account and supported crypto. Potential Cost Savings: May offer more favorable rates compared to traditional currency exchange fees. Speed: Real-time transactions are faster than some traditional international payment methods. For Bhutanese Merchants & Economy: Attracting New Tourists: Appeals to crypto holders globally. Modernization: Positions Bhutan as a digitally progressive destination. Efficiency: Instant settlement in local currency simplifies accounting and cash flow. Reduced Handling Costs: Less cash handling can decrease associated risks and costs. This system is a win-win, enhancing the tourist experience while providing economic benefits and technological advancement for the host country. Are There Any Challenges with Crypto Payments for Tourists? While the launch is exciting, integrating crypto payments isn’t without potential considerations: User Education: Ensuring both tourists and merchants are comfortable using the new system. Internet Connectivity: Reliable internet access is crucial for real-time mobile payments. Regulatory Landscape: While Bhutan has enabled this, ongoing clarity and stability in crypto regulations are always beneficial. Merchant Adoption: Widespread acceptance across various businesses (hotels, restaurants, shops, guides) will be key to the system’s success. However, the partnership with established entities like Binance Pay and DK Bank suggests a thoughtful approach to mitigating these challenges through technology and local integration. Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel and Crypto Bhutan’s move could serve as a case study for other nations looking to modernize their tourism payment infrastructure. As cryptocurrency adoption grows globally, offering visitors the flexibility to pay with digital assets could become a significant competitive advantage for tourist destinations. The success of Bhutan crypto payments will likely inspire further exploration of how blockchain technology and digital currencies can enhance travel, from booking flights and accommodations to paying for local experiences. It’s an exciting step towards a more interconnected and digitally-enabled world of tourism. Planning Your Trip? Actionable Insights If you’re a crypto holder planning a trip to the Kingdom of Bhutan, here’s what you should know: Ensure you have the Binance app installed and verified. Fund your Binance account with one of the 100+ supported cryptocurrencies. Look for merchants displaying the Binance Pay or crypto payment accepted signs. Be aware of the specific cryptocurrencies accepted by individual merchants (though the system supports many, merchant preference or technical setup might vary). Enjoy the convenience of paying directly with your digital assets! Conclusion Bhutan’s integration of crypto payments for tourists, powered by Binance Pay and DK Bank, marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of travel and digital finance. It offers a glimpse into the future of tourism, where convenience, technology, and global accessibility converge. By embracing Bhutan tourism crypto payments, the kingdom not only enhances the visitor experience but also solidifies its reputation as a nation willing to adopt innovative solutions for sustainable growth. This development is a testament to the increasing real-world utility of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping cryptocurrency payments Bhutan price action.

7 May 2025, 10:58

Record Number of SEC Filings Mention Cryptocurrency and Stablecoins

The prospect of a change in the US government's attitude towards the cryptocurrency industry became apparent during the election campaign last year. At that time, presidential candidate Donald Trump said that he intended to give up the fight against the industry, which at that time the Biden administration was doing. He eventually realized his promise, and as a result, the SEC also got a chairman who supports the coin industry. Companies are more eager than ever to launch products based on digital assets. What's next for cryptocurrencies In the second half of April, Paul Atkins officially became chairman of the SEC and even named digital assets the main priority in his activities. Accordingly, the SEC now has a leader who can dictate the vector of the regulator's activities and at the same time take responsibility for various decisions. Certainly, investment funds are feeling the change in the SEC's approach: at least since the new U.S. president took office, the regulator has canceled several proceedings against major cryptocurrency companies. Therefore, they are now actively filing to launch new instruments based on digital assets. The number of mentions of cryptocurrencies in filings with the Commission reached an all-time high in April at 786. At the same time, mentions of stablecoins have more than doubled in recent months. The growth of the indicator turned out to be massive. In particular, the word ”cryptocurrency” in official documents in April was encountered 38 percent more often than in March - then the figure reached 569 references. At the same time, the average number of mentions of this word from January 2024 to March 2025 was 457. According to analysts, the sharp rise in mentions of digital assets indicates that federal agencies are devoting more attention and resources to crypto as they await new rules for dealing with the coin industry and upcoming guidance from the SEC. That is, they expect the regulator to bring clarity to interactions with the crypto sphere, and this will enable them to create appropriate products and allow customers to interact with them. The same trend is relevant for stablecoins. Between January 2024 and January 2025, the term was mentioned an average of 48 times per month in SEC filings. From February through April 2025, however, the average rose to 103. Specifically, the number of mentions of staples totaled 81 times in February, 124 times in March and another 104 times in April. According to experts, this trend indicates a renewed interest of regulators in asset reservation standards and consumer protection. In addition, if the interaction with this category of tokens is formalized, the adoption of staples will grow both at the corporate and retail level. How the SEC hurt crypto As mentioned above, the SEC stopped investigating many cryptocurrency companies after Donald Trump took office. For example, in late April, the SEC dismissed claims to the PYUSD stablecoin from PayPal, the activity with which was studied by the regulator since November 2023. Also on the list of dismissed cases were Binance, Coinbase, Uniswap and other major industry players. Here's their full list. According to Devin Finzer, head of the popular NFT platform OpenSea, the end of enforcement actions against popular cryptocurrency companies indicates a change of trend in the regulation of digital assets. That said, the approach to governing the industry through enforcement actions has somehow left the field with persistent ”regulatory uncertainty,” notes Cointelegraph . Under the Biden administration, Finzer said, the SEC has unfairly targeted good players within the coin industry. And OpenSea was also on that list - here's a quote from the manager. There are many types of digital assets, and I think it's obvious that you can't lump them all under one umbrella. I think the approach that the previous SEC leadership took was too generalized. Recall that in 2024, the Securities Commission sent the OpenSea platform the so-called Wells Notice, which spoke of the beginning of an investigation into the company's activities. According to the regulator's version, the platform served as an exchange for unregistered securities, which was a typical SEC complaint against crypto under Gary Gensler. At the time, Finzer criticized the SEC's approach, calling it regulation through coercion. In addition, he said that OpenSea is ready to fight for normalization of the authorities' attitude to the blockchain industry. It seems that this period has now arrived. The OpenSea executive now expects an adequate and balanced regulatory framework for digital assets. He continues. Good cryptocurrency regulation must strike a balance between protecting consumers and preserving the opportunity for innovation. This isn't a ”one-size-fits-all” challenge, is it? Despite the sharp decline in trading volumes with NFT, Finzer calls the industry thriving. He says new innovations and applications are emerging - especially in gaming and art collecting. However, OpenSea is trying to diversify the business and is looking for other asset options for bidding. For the first time in the history of the internet, people have a real opportunity to own digital objects. You can move them freely between different applications and take them anywhere on the internet - and that's a really powerful thing. The growing number of references to cryptocurrencies in SEC documents confirms a turnaround in the regulation of the industry. The new approach promises not only to reduce pressure on developers, but also to open up opportunities to launch legal products. The separate interest of regulators in stablecoins could be the key to their mass adoption..

7 May 2025, 10:50

Changpeng Zhao May Slash BNB Chain Gas Fees by 10x; Rivals Solana, Ethereum At Risk?

The post Changpeng Zhao May Slash BNB Chain Gas Fees by 10x; Rivals Solana, Ethereum At Risk? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) is stirring up the Layer-1 battlefield and this could really tip the balance. CZ has proposed slashing BNB Chain gas fees by up to 10x , and that’s no small tweak. It’s a direct challenge to Ethereum’s costly transactions and Solana’s ultra-cheap speed. With Binance Smart Chain (BSC) already handling billions of transactions daily, this potential fee cut could supercharge its position in the DeFi race – threatening to outpace blockchain heavyweights Vitalik Buterin’s Ethereum and Anatoly Yakovenko’s Solana. Binance Moves to Crush Gas Fees – and the Competition High gas fees have long haunted the crypto space, especially on Ethereum, where the average cost hovers around $0.42. Solana has gained traction with lightning-fast speeds and near-zero costs, but Binance isn’t sitting still. Now, CZ is looking to undercut both by pushing BNB Chain’s already-low gas fees even further down. The network currently boasts a median gas price of just 1 Gwei (around $0.01 per transaction). In the last 24 hours alone, BNB Chain processed over 7.2 billion transactions at an average fee of $0.0945 – already a bargain by blockchain standards. “Affordability is key to blockchain’s future,” CZ shared on X. “We’re lowering BNB fees to empower developers and users, outpacing Ethereum and Solana.” Why This Could Be a Game-Changer for BNB Chain Let’s just be clear. This is a calculated strategy to reposition BNB Chain as the sweet spot between Ethereum’s network strength and Solana’s affordability. Lower fees could drive a new wave of developers to the BNB ecosystem, lured by high throughput, cost efficiency, and growing momentum. From DeFi and NFTs to blockchain gaming, the use cases are massive and Binance is setting the stage to become the go-to platform for them all. However, going too far could backfire. Zero or near-zero fees might invite spam and overload the infrastructure, putting pressure on validators. The challenge? Slashing fees without compromising network security or developer incentives. Is This the Beginning of a New Blockchain Power Shift? What strategic timing! As Ethereum continues to battle scalability issues and Solana works to maintain its reliability, Binance is seizing the moment to strike with what could be the most cost-effective Layer-1 option on the market. This fee slash proposal – though not officially confirmed yet – signals Binance’s renewed ambition to lead the L1 race. If implemented smartly, it could tilt user and developer sentiment in BNB Chain’s favor in a big way. What way will it finally go? We, at Coinpedia, will keep you updated.

7 May 2025, 10:47

Binance Partners with a Surprise Country! It Interests Bitcoin, BNB and These Altcoins!

The government of Bhutan, the country with the fourth largest number of Bitcoins, continues to make new moves regarding BTC and cryptocurrencies. At this point, the Bhutanese government has officially launched the world’s first national cryptocurrency tourism payment system together with Binance Pay and local digital bank DK Bank. With this move, Bhutan has become the first country to allow crypto payments across its entire tourism ecosystem. With this partnership, Binance Pay users are now supported to use cryptocurrency to pay for almost any item on any trip to Bhutan. In an official statement made by Binance, it was stated that tourists can now make real-time cryptocurrency payments through the Binance app. The system supports over 100 cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Binance Coin (BNB), and USDC, and instant payouts in local currency via DK Bank. “Bhutan has become the first country to allow crypto payments across its entire tourism ecosystem, supported by Binance Pay and DK Bank. Visitors can now pay with crypto for flights, visas, accommodation, guides, and even street market items through a network of over 100 supported merchants. “This initiative demonstrates how cryptocurrency can foster both inclusivity and innovation by helping small businesses in remote areas go digital.” Bhutan had previously announced plans to include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH) and Binance Coin (BNB) in its strategic reserve assets. Related News: The Country with the Fourth Most Bitcoins Announces It Will Add Two More Surprise Altcoins to Its Reserves! *This is not investment advice. Continue Reading: Binance Partners with a Surprise Country! It Interests Bitcoin, BNB and These Altcoins!