8 Aug 2025, 19:52

Ether Rockets Above $4,000 For First Time Since December 2024 As Analyst Says Next Move Will “Melt Faces”

Ethereum soared above the much-watched psychological $4,000 level on Friday for the first time in eight months amid a continuing surge of ETH treasury companies.

8 Aug 2025, 19:50

Inflation in Bolivia has hit 25%, and dollars are scarce, pushing people toward cryptocurrencies

Bolivia is in the middle of a money crisis, and the boliviano is no longer the safe bet it once was. Inflation has blown up to 25%, the highest in 34 years. Dollars are almost impossible to get. Trust in the government is hanging by a thread. So people are moving fast into cryptocurrencies, as a way to keep their businesses running and their savings from shrinking. At El Alto International Airport, a shop sells candy and sunglasses in USDT , a stablecoin tied to the dollar. A top university sends paychecks in Bitcoin to foreign professors. For a while, the state oil company even got permission to make foreign payments in stablecoins. In just the first half of 2025, digital transactions shot up more than five times, hitting $300 million. “Among importers, crypto use is high,” Oswaldo Barriga said. “When they can’t access hard currency and need to make urgent payments, crypto becomes a viable alternative.” Bolivians turn to digital money as the economy falls apart The numbers behind the crisis are grim. The government has run budget deficits for 11 years in a row. Foreign debt has grown to about a quarter of the country’s GDP. The natural gas industry, once a steady source of dollars, has collapsed. On top of that, the boliviano’s fixed exchange rate has made imported goods more expensive. For most people, the value of their money is dropping every week. This has created a perfect opening for crypto. Many see it as a way to avoid the slow death of their savings. But it’s not without risks. Some stablecoins have been caught with shaky reserves. Bitcoin’s price can jump or crash in a single day. Even so, the distrust in banks and government is so deep that people prefer the risk. With a presidential election coming on August 17, no one expects a quick fix, and the shift toward digital assets is already too far along to stop. Getting US dollars is a headache. Banks sometimes allow only $100 a week in withdrawals. On the black market, one dollar goes for 14 bolivianos, double the official rate, the same price many pay for one USDT. This has made stablecoins a practical stand-in for cash. In downtown La Paz, Christopher Salas runs a small coffee stand. Most customers still pay in bolivianos, but some use satoshis, the smallest unit of Bitcoin, by scanning a QR code linked to their Blink wallet. “I’m not the only one using Bitcoin,” Christopher said. “There’s a barbershop over there and a gym that also accepts satoshis.” For him, it’s both a way to protect his savings and, as he put it, “a way to go against the system, against bureaucracy.” Platforms and payment systems race to keep up with demand Crypto platforms are seeing a rush of new users. Carlos Neira, who co-founded Colombian wallet provider Meru, said Bolivian accounts on his platform have grown by 6,600% since the ban was lifted. Binance is also popular for its low fees and beginner tutorials. But there are reminders of how fragile the market can be. The Terra stablecoin collapsed in 2022, wiping out billions. In 2021, Tether paid $41 million to settle US claims that it lied about its reserves. Even the US dollar, the anchor for most stablecoins, is down about 8% this year, according to data from Bloomberg , because of changes in US trade policy. The government’s involvement has been minimal since legalizing crypto. Unlike El Salvador, which made Bitcoin legal tender and heavily promoted it, Bolivia simply ended the ban and stepped back. Adoption here has been driven by the public, not a state campaign. In El Salvador , only 4.9% of transactions in 2023 were in Bitcoin despite the law. Other Latin American countries have also seen people turn to crypto during inflation (like Venezuela and Argentina), but mostly as savings. In Bolivia, it’s becoming a payment tool. “Foreign companies view Bolivia as the epicenter of the crypto ecosystem in Latin America,” Mauricio Dulon said at a recent crypto summit in La Paz. That interest has brought more providers into the market. Hugo Miranda of the Bolivia Internet Foundation said both global and local companies are moving in fast. Social media influencers are promoting crypto as a way to escape financial limits. Businesses are adapting, too. Want your project in front of crypto’s top minds? Feature it in our next industry report, where data meets impact.

8 Aug 2025, 19:03

Weekly Crypto Regulation Roundup: Trump Backs Crypto in 401(K) Accounts, and SEC Embraces Liquid Staking

This week marked further progress in the U.S. crypto regulation environment, with President Donald Trump’s administration making moves in favor of digital assets and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) clarifying the legality of liquid staking products. Trump Pushes for Crypto in 401(k) Retirement Accounts President Trump on Thursday signed an executive order that could reshape the future of American retirement savings. The directive urges regulators to identify and remove barriers preventing employers from offering alternative assets—such as cryptocurrencies, private equity, and real estate—in workplace retirement plans known as 401(k)s. The move is part of a broader agenda to diversify investment options for American savers, especially amid inflation concerns and dissatisfaction with traditional pension plans. While the order doesn’t immediately change existing rules, it instructs regulatory bodies, including the Department of Labor and the Treasury, to re-evaluate current restrictions and recommend reforms. By targeting 401(k) limitations, Trump is pushing crypto regulation into mainstream financial planning. If fully implemented, the policy could allow millions of Americans to allocate retirement funds to Bitcoin and other digital assets through regulated channels, effectively legitimizing crypto as a long-term wealth vehicle. Pro-Crypto Economist Stephen Miran Nominated to Fed Board Alongside the retirement reform, Trump announced the nomination of economist Stephen Miran to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. Miran, who currently serves as chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, is widely viewed as supportive of digital assets and financial innovation. United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) head Paul Atkins doubled down on his commitment to ensuring the next wave of “financial innovation” happens on American soil in an August 4 X post.Paul Atkins Reaffirms U.S. Commitmen… https://t.co/YFYyHDJze2 — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) August 4, 2025 Trump made the announcement via Truth Social, stating that Miran will fill the seat vacated by Adriana Kugler, a Biden appointee who recently resigned. Although Miran’s term will run only through January 2026, the decision is being interpreted by analysts as a sign of continuity in Trump’s evolving pro-crypto stance. The news coincided with Bitcoin’s rise back above $117,000—a symbolic reminder of the strong link between crypto markets and policy developments. With Miran on the Fed Board, crypto-friendly monetary policy views could find firmer footing at the U.S. central bank. Association Hails Trump’s Exec Orders as ‘Historic Shift’ Trump’s twin executive orders also drew praise from crypto industry leaders. Summer Mersinger, CEO of the Blockchain Association, called the actions “a historic shift in how the U.S. treats digital assets and the innovators building in this space.” The second order, signed alongside the 401(k) directive, seeks to end the controversial practice of “debanking”—where financial institutions deny services to lawful crypto firms based on perceived reputational risk. The order penalizes banks that discriminate against crypto clients without due cause, a move that could ease operational burdens for blockchain startups and exchanges. Mersinger stated that the executive orders are not only pro-business but also reinforce consumer rights. “Allowing Americans to include regulated, diversified crypto exposure in their retirement accounts expands consumer choice and empowers individuals to responsibly build wealth,” she said. SEC Clarifies Liquid Staking Is Not a Securities Transaction While the executive branch took the spotlight this week, the SEC also made waves by clarifying its stance on liquid staking, a long-awaited issue for the DeFi sector amid crypto regulation concerns. United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) head Paul Atkins doubled down on his commitment to ensuring the next wave of “financial innovation” happens on American soil in an August 4 X post.Paul Atkins Reaffirms U.S. Commitmen… https://t.co/YFYyHDJze2 — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) August 4, 2025 In a statement released Tuesday, the SEC’s Division of Corporation Finance explained that certain types of liquid staking models, particularly those involving receipt tokens like Lido’s stETH, do not qualify as securities. This means platforms can offer these services without registering them under securities law, easing fears of regulatory crackdowns. Jason Gottlieb, a partner at Morrison Cohen, welcomed the move, noting that the SEC appears to be maturing in its understanding of crypto mechanics. “At heart, a liquid staking token is just a receipt on a token,” he said. “With the SEC now correctly taking the position that cryptocurrency tokens themselves are not securities, it makes sense that a receipt for a token is not a receipt for a security.” The guidance is expected to boost institutional confidence in liquid staking and may pave the way for regulated DeFi investment products in the U.S. market. SEC Chair Vows to Keep Crypto Development on U.S. Soil Rounding out the week’s crypto regulation developments, newly appointed SEC Chair Paul Atkins reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring crypto innovation happens in the United States. United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) head Paul Atkins doubled down on his commitment to ensuring the next wave of “financial innovation” happens on American soil in an August 4 X post.Paul Atkins Reaffirms U.S. Commitmen… https://t.co/YFYyHDJze2 — Cryptonews.com (@cryptonews) August 4, 2025 In remarks delivered at the America First Policy Institute and later posted on his official X account, Atkins said the SEC under his leadership will be “proactive, not reactive” in building a crypto-friendly regulatory environment. “The SEC will not stand idly by and watch innovations develop overseas while our capital markets remain stagnant,” he said, framing the agency’s future agenda as a bid to reclaim U.S. leadership in digital finance. Atkins’ comments build on a broader shift in tone at the SEC, where officials appear increasingly open to working with the crypto industry rather than policing it through enforcement alone. From Washington to Wall Street, this week shows a growing political will to integrate digital assets into the mainstream financial system. Trump’s executive orders, along with regulatory signs from the SEC, suggest a more constructive environment for both crypto firms and investors heading into the second half of 2025. The post Weekly Crypto Regulation Roundup: Trump Backs Crypto in 401(K) Accounts, and SEC Embraces Liquid Staking appeared first on Cryptonews .

8 Aug 2025, 19:00

SharpLink Bets Big On Ethereum: $200M Raised To Deepen ETH Exposure

SharpLink Gaming has announced a $200 million capital raise aimed at expanding its Ethereum treasury. As ETH solidifies its role as programmable money and a yield-bearing asset through staking, SharpLink is betting big on its long-term potential. The raise positions the company among a rising class of corporates reshaping capital strategy around blockchain-native assets. Why SharpLink Is Going All-In On Ethereum In an X post, SharpLink Gaming shared an update stating that the company has secured $200 million capital raise through a direct offering priced at $19.50 per share, and has been backed by four global institutional investors. Related Reading: SharpLink Buys the Dip and Adds $100M-Worth of $ETH to its Treasury as $BEST Stands to Gain According to the company, the capital will be strategically deployed to expand its ETH treasury holdings. Upon full deployment, SharpLink expects its ETH reserves to exceed $2 billion, placing it among the most ETH-heavy corporate treasuries globally. The company focuses on accumulating ETH, staking ETH to earn sustainable on-chain yield, and consistently growing ETH-per-share for long-term shareholders. Ethereum is becoming the foundational layer of global finance infrastructure for tokenized assets, and SharpLink is built to capture that upside. According to the DuRtY_Crypto post, Vitalik Buterin recently pointed out that ETH treasuries are increasingly valuable, not just as a store of ETH, but as a different vehicle for people to have access to ETH. Instead of simply buying ETH and holding it, investors are turning to companies that hold and manage ETH treasuries. DuRtY_Crypto has outlined the irony that was unseen between the Bankless crew, who quickly celebrated the mainstream validation. The PulseChain Sacrifice Wallet has skyrocketed to become the 5th-largest ETH holder in crypto with 171,054 ETH. Before the funds rotated into ETH, the wallet was already commanding attention as the largest DAI holder across all chains. Thus, the expert has commended Richard Heart, the controversial figure behind PulseChain, for executing a strategic pivot that few saw coming. Ethereum Activity Heats Up As Transaction Volume Nears ATH While prominent figures are raising capital and increasing the ETH treasury’s value, CoinW has also revealed that Ethereum on-chain momentum is surging again. According to data from Etherscan, the network processed 1.87 million transactions on Aug 6th, nearing its all-time high of 1.96 million, which was set back in January 2024. Related Reading: Ethereum Bears Dominate Market Orders: -$418.8M Daily Net Taker Volume Signals Trouble Meanwhile, the validator queue data shows the ETH pOs exit queue has dropped significantly to 443,164 ETH, worth roughly $1.612 billion. Following the decline, the average exit wait time now sits at 7 days and 17 hours. With UK regulators officially lifting the ban on crypto exchange-traded notes (cETNs) for retail investors, as reported by CoinW, Ethereum’s performance may experience notable growth. This move signals a major policy shift toward embracing digital asset markets. Furthermore, it will allow individuals to engage in these risk-bearing financial products at their discretion, a move seen as aligning the UK more closely with the global crypto market. Featured image from Getty Images, chart from Tradingview.com

8 Aug 2025, 19:00

Catalyst Watch: Cisco earnings, Sailpoint lockup expiration, CPI read, and another crypto exchange IPO

More on the markets July CPI Preview: More Evidence Of Stagflation Window Of Weakness? Capex Nation: Investment Themes For A Decade 10 stocks return 80% of S&P 500’s gains since ‘Liberation Day’ Nearly 50% of the S&P 500’s weight is packed into just 20 stocks

8 Aug 2025, 18:15

Ukraine Crypto Bill: Crucial August Review Set to Shape Digital Asset Future

BitcoinWorld Ukraine Crypto Bill: Crucial August Review Set to Shape Digital Asset Future Exciting developments are on the horizon for the digital asset landscape in Eastern Europe! Ukraine is taking a significant step forward, with its parliament poised to review a pivotal Ukraine crypto bill in late August. This legislative move could redefine how cryptocurrencies are treated within the nation, signaling a clear path towards greater integration and regulation for digital assets. What’s on the Table for the Ukraine Crypto Bill? The upcoming parliamentary session will focus on a comprehensive framework for cryptocurrency regulation. This isn’t just a minor tweak; it’s a foundational proposal designed to bring clarity and legal standing to digital assets across the country. The bill aims to establish a clear legal basis for the circulation and management of cryptocurrencies, addressing a long-standing need in the sector. One of the most talked-about aspects of this proposed Ukraine crypto bill involves taxation. For individuals who have already acquired digital assets, the bill suggests a specific pathway for legalization. This is a critical point for many existing crypto holders in the country, offering a chance to formalize their holdings. Understanding the Proposed Cryptocurrency Tax Ukraine The draft legislation outlines a straightforward tax structure for legalized crypto holdings. It proposes a clear framework for the cryptocurrency tax Ukraine residents would pay. Specifically, the bill suggests: A 5% income tax on profits derived from cryptocurrency activities. An additional 5% military duty , which would also apply to these gains. This combined 10% levy is intended to formalize past gains and contribute to national coffers. This taxation approach seeks to encourage existing holders to declare their assets, providing a structured way to bring previously undeclared holdings into the legal financial system. For the government, this represents a new source of revenue and a step towards comprehensive financial oversight. Will Ukraine Bitcoin Reserves Become a Reality? Beyond taxation, the bill touches upon an even more intriguing possibility: the inclusion of cryptocurrencies in the nation’s reserves. Cointelegraph reported that the central bank might gain the authority to incorporate digital assets into its official holdings. This would be a monumental shift, potentially making Ukraine one of the pioneering nations to hold significant crypto as part of its strategic reserves. Ukraine already possesses a notable amount of Bitcoin, reportedly holding 46,351 BTC . Should the central bank be empowered to manage or expand these holdings, it could signify a profound institutional embrace of digital currencies. This move could also bolster national financial stability and diversify reserve portfolios, highlighting the potential for Ukraine Bitcoin reserves to become a reality. Broader Implications of Digital Asset Legislation This comprehensive digital asset legislation has far-reaching implications, not just for Ukraine but for the global crypto landscape. A clear regulatory framework can foster greater investor confidence and attract more businesses to the country’s crypto sector. It provides the certainty that many traditional financial institutions seek before engaging with digital assets, encouraging further investment. The bill’s passage could also set a precedent for other nations considering similar moves. As countries worldwide grapple with how to regulate the burgeoning crypto market, Ukraine’s approach to crypto regulation Ukraine offers a compelling case study. It balances innovation with the need for fiscal responsibility and legal clarity, showcasing a pragmatic path forward. Ultimately, this legislative push signals Ukraine’s commitment to becoming a leader in the digital economy. By providing a clear legal and tax environment, the country aims to harness the potential of cryptocurrencies while mitigating associated risks. The late August review will be a defining moment for the future of crypto in Ukraine. In summary, Ukraine’s impending review of its crypto bill is a significant event for the global cryptocurrency community. It addresses crucial aspects like taxation of past holdings and the potential for central bank crypto reserves. This forward-thinking Ukraine crypto bill aims to integrate digital assets into the national economy, setting a clear path for their future. The outcome will undoubtedly shape Ukraine’s financial landscape and serve as an important benchmark for global crypto regulation efforts. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: When will Ukraine’s parliament review the crypto bill? A1: Ukraine’s parliament is set to review the comprehensive crypto regulation bill in late August. Q2: What taxes are proposed for crypto holdings in Ukraine? A2: The bill proposes a 5% income tax and an additional 5% military duty for legalizing past cryptocurrency holdings. Q3: Can Ukraine’s central bank hold cryptocurrencies as reserves? A3: Yes, Cointelegraph reported that the bill may allow Ukraine’s central bank to include cryptocurrencies in its national reserves. Q4: What is the current amount of Bitcoin reportedly held by Ukraine? A4: Ukraine reportedly holds 46,351 BTC. Q5: How does this bill benefit crypto holders in Ukraine? A5: The bill provides a clear legal framework for digital assets and offers a pathway for crypto holders to legalize their past holdings, bringing clarity and reducing uncertainty. If you found this insight into Ukraine’s crypto regulation efforts valuable, please share this article on your social media platforms! Help us spread awareness about these crucial developments in the global digital asset space and contribute to a more informed crypto community. To learn more about the latest crypto regulation Ukraine trends, explore our article on key developments shaping digital asset legislation and its impact on institutional adoption . This post Ukraine Crypto Bill: Crucial August Review Set to Shape Digital Asset Future first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team