20 May 2025, 20:00

Crypto market today: BTC ETFs hit $133B, Ethereum cofounder moves $262M ETH

In a remarkable display of market momentum, Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have soared to record highs, Ethereum has seen a massive whale movement, and Argentina’s president has disbanded the task force that was investigating the controversial LIBRA scandal. Bitcoin ETFs’ inflows exceed expectations Bitcoin ETFs have reached a new milestone with assets under management (AUM) surpassing $133 billion, fueled by massive inflows and surging institutional demand. Spot Bitcoin ETF AUM | Source: The Block In the past five weeks alone, Bitcoin spot ETFs recorded net inflows of $6.63 billion, with $667.40 million entering the funds on May 19 alone, according to Coinglass’ Total Bitcoin Spot ETF Net Inflow (USD) data . This marks one of the most aggressive periods of accumulation since ETFs were introduced, hinting at strong confidence from institutional players. The spike in inflows comes amid rising technical optimism. Analysts have pointed to a looming “golden cross,” a bullish signal that occurs when the 50-day simple moving average crosses above the 200-day average. Historically, this pattern has preceded long-term rallies in Bitcoin’s price. Despite minor price pullbacks, market sentiment remains notably bullish. In fact, even on days of correction, inflows persisted, revealing that investors are buying the dip rather than retreating. Notably, the continued inflows have coincided with a broader shift in investor sentiment, as reflected by the Crypto Fear and Greed Index moving deeper into the “greed” zone. Analysts view this convergence of sentiment and technical patterns as a foundation for Bitcoin’s next rally, possibly pushing it toward a fresh all-time high. Ethereum co-founder’s $262M ETH transfer sparks speculation While Bitcoin shines in the ETF arena, Ethereum faced renewed scrutiny following a significant whale movement linked to one of its cofounders. Jeffrey Wilcke, a lesser-known but foundational figure in Ethereum’s early development, transferred 105,732 ETH (worth approximately $262 million) to Kraken, a move that immediately raised eyebrows in the crypto community. According to data from Arkham Intelligence , the transaction was executed at block height 22,524,638 with a minimal fee of $0.16. Such massive transfers to centralised exchanges often suggest potential sell-offs, especially when conducted through platforms like Kraken, which are known for high-volume liquidations. The timing of the move added to the uncertainty, occurring just as Ethereum was rebounding 1.56% to around $2,490 after dipping to $2,452. While it remains unclear whether Wilcke’s wallet had been dormant before this transfer, the sudden activity has unsettled some traders. Ethereum has struggled to breach the $2,500 resistance level, and this movement by a known insider has added to market jitters. Adding to the unease, other high-volume ETH transfers linked to notable entities such as Justin Sun and the Ethereum Foundation have taken place in recent weeks. Moreover, the optimism that initially surrounded the Pectra upgrade is beginning to wane. Reports of a possible bug in Ethereum Improvement Proposal 7702 (EIP-7702) have cast doubts on the upgrade’s long-term stability. As a result, market watchers are urging caution, especially if Wilcke’s transaction signals broader intentions within Ethereum’s founding circles. Argentina’s president disbands task force probing LIBRA scandal In a surprising political twist, Argentina’s President Javier Milei has ordered the disbandment of the special task force investigating the high -profile LIBRA scandal . The probe had been initiated to examine alleged financial mismanagement and regulatory breaches tied to the LIBRA crypto project, which had drawn significant criticism from global financial watchdogs. Milei’s decision to halt the investigation comes amid sweeping reforms aimed at reducing governmental oversight in financial markets. Supporters argue that the move reflects a desire to attract innovation and promote cryptocurrency adoption within Argentina. However, critics see it as a political manoeuvre that undermines transparency and accountability, particularly in light of LIBRA’s controversial history. Although the official statement cited “budgetary constraints and institutional restructuring” as the rationale behind the move, sources within the government suggested that the order may have been influenced by external lobbying from crypto-linked interests. This development effectively ends one of the most closely-watched regulatory inquiries in Latin America, leaving questions about the future of crypto oversight in the region. Conclusion From historic ETF inflows and whale-sized Ethereum transfers to sweeping political decisions in South America, the cryptocurrency space remains as dynamic as ever. Bitcoin appears to be entering a bullish phase driven by institutional confidence, while Ethereum navigates uncertainty amid high-stakes movements by key players. Meanwhile, the regulatory developments, such as Argentina’s pivot on LIBRA, continue to shape the global crypto narrative. The post Crypto market today: BTC ETFs hit $133B, Ethereum cofounder moves $262M ETH appeared first on Invezz

20 May 2025, 19:55

Robinhood Presses SEC for Clarity on Tokenizing RWAs in Bid for On-Chain Stock Trading: Report

Robinhood has submitted a 42-page proposal to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requesting regulatory clarity on the tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) and its potential application to on-chain stock trading. According to a Forbes report , the proposal, filed with the SEC’s Crypto Task Force, outlines a framework for compliant issuance, custody, and trading of tokenized assets, aiming to modernize US capital markets. Quantum Economics founder Mati Greenspan told Forbes, “This proposal could mark the first time a U.S.-regulated broker has laid out a viable path for bringing trillions of dollars in assets onchain – without compromising regulatory integrity. If the SEC embraces this, it’s a signal to the world that tokenization has a legitimate seat at the traditional finance table.” Robinhood’s plan includes federally licensed tokenized asset standards, integrated Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols, and a modified Form S-1 for tokenized securities. The planned Real World Asset Exchange (RRE) would operate on the Solana ( SOL ) and Base blockchains. Last month, Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev said that the tokenization of traditional assets could secure the dominance of the US equities market. “Tokenization of securities, which we’re very excited about, allows you to have ownership in companies… Stablecoins are viewed rightly as an area that could increase demand among individuals overseas as governments become prone to diversifying away from holding treasuries. So in the same way that stablecoin legislation can kind of push forward US dollar dominance, I think tokenized securities can really push forward US company dominance in the global market.” At time of writing, the SEC has yet to issue a formal response. Follow us on X , Facebook and Telegram Don't Miss a Beat – Subscribe to get email alerts delivered directly to your inbox Check Price Action Surf The Daily Hodl Mix Disclaimer: Opinions expressed at The Daily Hodl are not investment advice. Investors should do their due diligence before making any high-risk investments in Bitcoin, cryptocurrency or digital assets. Please be advised that your transfers and trades are at your own risk, and any losses you may incur are your responsibility. The Daily Hodl does not recommend the buying or selling of any cryptocurrencies or digital assets, nor is The Daily Hodl an investment advisor. Please note that The Daily Hodl participates in affiliate marketing. Featured Image: Shutterstock/Space Wind The post Robinhood Presses SEC for Clarity on Tokenizing RWAs in Bid for On-Chain Stock Trading: Report appeared first on The Daily Hodl .

20 May 2025, 19:44

Oldest Law School In U.S.: XRP Holders Own a Slice of Ripple’s Future Cashflows

A new academic paper published in May 2025 by Professor James C. Spindler of the University of Texas and released through the William & Mary Law School presents a detailed legal examination of XRP’s economic nature. The analysis asserts that individuals who purchase XRP may be acquiring more than a digital asset; they may, in effect, be aligning themselves with Ripple’s future financial outcomes. This perspective, introduced to the public by independent crypto researcher SMQKE on X, has led to extensive debate within the XRP community. The report brings fresh insight into the ongoing conversation around XRP’s legal and financial status, particularly in light of Ripple’s long-standing conflict with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). XRP HOLDERS OWN A SLICE OF RIPPLE’S FUTURE CASHFLOWS Read closely. “At the end of the day, XRP purchasers have bought, effectively, a SLICE OF THE FUTURE CASHFLOWS that Ripple would make from the licensing of its transaction settlement system.” Of course it’s… pic.twitter.com/kADEC1GbRT — SMQKE (@SMQKEDQG) May 19, 2025 XRP’s Economic Link to Ripple’s Business The central claim of the report is that while XRP does not legally represent a share in Ripple nor grant rights such as dividends or governance participation, its value is closely tied to Ripple’s financial performance. According to Spindler, XRP purchasers are essentially wagering on Ripple’s future revenue, especially revenue generated from its blockchain-based payment solutions. The paper describes this connection as an economic interest, suggesting that XRP serves as a proxy for Ripple’s financial trajectory. However, the paper also acknowledges a critical legal distinction: XRP does not meet the traditional criteria of a security under existing U.S. law. Holders do not receive the legal safeguards or disclosures that are typically mandated for investors in regulated securities. This raises concerns about investor protection and regulatory clarity, positioning XRP in a legal gray area. Functional Utility of XRP Strengthens Ripple’s Defense The report also explores Ripple’s argument that XRP is fundamentally a utility token, not an investment vehicle. Ripple has consistently asserted that the token’s primary purpose is to enable efficient cross-border transactions through its network, particularly on the XRP Ledger and in services such as Ripple Payments. Spindler’s analysis gives merit to this claim, noting that the asset plays a crucial role in enabling system functionality. It is required for transaction fees on the XRPL and is used optionally as a bridge asset in payment corridors. This practical application, the report argues, distinguishes XRP from traditional financial instruments like stocks or bonds that offer passive investment returns. We are on twitter, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) July 15, 2023 Potential Regulatory Implications for Tokenized Revenue Models Beyond the case of Ripple, the report considers broader implications for the crypto sector. It posits that if firms begin offering digital tokens that track future earnings, without offering corresponding legal rights, they could potentially bypass conventional financial regulations. While this strategy could offer innovation and new funding models, it also introduces potential regulatory risks and calls for updated oversight frameworks. Still, the report notes that Ripple stands apart from many other crypto entities by operating a business with actual, consistent revenue. This fact adds legitimacy to its model and supports its claim that the token functions within a working economic system rather than serving solely as a speculative asset. Legal Dispute Nears Resolution This academic insight arrives as Ripple and the SEC move toward resolving their long-running legal dispute. Both sides have reportedly agreed to drop pending appeals and are currently seeking court approval to formalize a settlement. A partial ruling in Ripple’s favor in 2023, where the court determined that certain XRP sales did not constitute securities offerings, has already shifted the regulatory outlook in Ripple’s favor. The paper ultimately suggests that while Ripple’s approach may fall outside of traditional financial models, it is grounded in real-world functionality and ongoing business operations, setting it apart from many digital asset offerings in today’s market. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are urged to do in-depth research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Oldest Law School In U.S.: XRP Holders Own a Slice of Ripple’s Future Cashflows appeared first on Times Tabloid .

20 May 2025, 19:21

Spot XRP ETFs Now ‘Only A Matter Of Time’ After CFTC-Regulated Futures Begin Trading In US

XRP futures traded for the first time on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group’s US derivatives exchange on May 19, offering market participants new tools to manage risk and get exposure to the price of XRP as the Ripple-linked token’s mainstream adoption gains momentum. A popular crypto industry pundit believes the CME futures listing bodes well for a potential spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) listing in 2025. XRP Futures Finish First Day Of Trading Last month, CME confirmed plans to list two types of XRP futures contracts: retail-friendly micro contracts representing 2,500 XRP and standard contracts representing 50,000 XRP. They are the second regulated XRP futures to hit the US market after Coinbase launched XRP and nano XRP futures contracts on its derivatives exchange in April. The newly launched XRP futures are settled in cash, not physical XRP. On May 19, the contracts’ first trading day, 4 standard contracts totaling around $480,000 in notional volume at an average price of $2.40, changed hands on the exchange, according to CME data. The majority of activity came from 106 micro contracts, accounting for over $1 million in day one trading volume. “The launch of regulated XRP Futures on @CMEGroup marks a key institutional milestone for XRP,” Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse stated on X on Monday, adding that Hidden Road executed the first block trade. CME already lists futures contracts for Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). US regulators approved exchange-traded funds for both of those cryptocurrencies last year. The rollout of XRP futures on CME comes as efforts to settle the SEC’s protracted lawsuit against Ripple hit a wall in court. As ZyCrypto covered last week, US District Judge Analisa Torres denied a joint request by the two parties to approve a settlement that would have reduced Ripple’s civil penalty from $125 million to $50 million. Calling it “procedurally improper,” Judge Torres indicated that the motion did not satisfy Rule 60, which only allows relief from a final judgment under exceptional circumstances. The ruling keeps Ripple’s legal woes alive and adds uncertainty over the timeline for spot XRP ETF approvals. ETF Approval Odds ETF Store Nate Geraci has expressed optimism about XRP’s next big move after the launch of the highly anticipated CME XRP futures. Amid the buzz surrounding this significant development, Geraci reckons that U.S.-listed spot XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are next in line. His remark suggests that the launch of the CFTC-regulated futures will act as a stepping stone for XRP to secure regulatory approval for spot products. CME-traded XRP futures are now *live*… CFTC-regulated contracts on XRP. Spot XRP ETFs only a matter of time. pic.twitter.com/MOhHtoGWbs — Nate Geraci (@NateGeraci) May 19, 2025 At least five ETF issuers, including Grayscale , 21Shares , WisdomTree , Bitwise , Canary Capital , and Franklin Templeton , have submitted paperwork with the SEC to introduce spot XRP ETFs. Bloomberg Intelligence estimates the likelihood that XRP ETFs are ultimately approved at approximately 85% following the change in leadership at the SEC .

20 May 2025, 19:15

Hailey Welch cleared for HAWK token rug pull

Hailey Welch said she was cleared by the US Securities and Exchange Commission and federal authorities for the crash of the HAWK token. The instant fame of HAWK ended quickly in a rapid crash, costing buyers as much as $50M. Hailey Welch claimed she was cleared by the US Securities and Exchange Commission as well as federal authorities. The creator of the HAWK token previously stated the SEC was done with its investigation , and federal authorities cleared her of responsibility for the HAWK token crash. Welch stated she lacked the knowledge on crypto, and regretted misleading her fans with a token that she did not fully understand and was misled. She explained her engagement with authorities in a recent Talk Tuah podcast. https://t.co/ONwwqD0oN5 pic.twitter.com/5JNaz9JZ82 — Talk Tuah with Haliey Welch (@talktuahpod) May 20, 2025 At the time of the crash, up to 97% of the token supply was held by snipers, and a group of insider wallets ended up crashing the price with rapid selling. HAWK was sniped early before it was available to the public, and sold to unaware retail investors. After that, the token did not have liquidity providers or market makers, and simply extracted SOL, leaving buyers to absorb the losses. The lawsuit against Welch started in December 2024, and crypto-investigating lawyer office Burwick Law is still seeking out all related parties. The legal team has tried class action lawsuits against meme token creators, aiming to compensate buyers. There is no official document proving that Welch is innocent. However, authorities did not continue the investigation beyond verifying the rug pull. Despite the losses, Welch reportedly received only $125K in advanced payment, with up to 50% of the token’s proceeds. At one point, Welch held over 50% of the token supply in a single wallet. HAWK sees almost no trading activity, and previous large wallets were broken up to smaller holdings. | Source: Bubblemaps Currently, the biggest wallet holds around 16.8% of the supply, with the rest split among smaller holdings. The token is relatively inactive, with small-scale trades to extract any remaining SOL in the liquidity pool. HAWK never recovered its meme reputation Within minutes, HAWK was sold off, resulting in losses of more than 95%. She went silent and stopped using social media after the selling, which took place during a livestream with Welch. The most recent podcast restated earlier indications that Welch would not be subject to fines or penalties. After the crash, HAWK traded in a single trading pair, with only $95K in liquidity. Previously, HAWK managed to reach $500M in market capitalization within minutes, rivaling older and more established memes. HAWK launched during peak season for celebrity tokens. The token did not revive after the news, still trading at $0.00015. Despite the low price, whales still realized gains, with one whale extracting 11.5 SOL . HAWK can still manage a small rally from its lows, but quickly falls on renewed selling from remaining holders. According to Solscan, the token still has 7,609 holders and continues to see small-scale trading through Jupiter or directly on Raydium. The volumes are extremely low, with trades in the hundreds of dollars. Cryptopolitan Academy: Tired of market swings? Learn how DeFi can help you build steady passive income. Register Now

20 May 2025, 19:15

India’s Supreme Court Pressures Government to Regulate Crypto, Not Ban It

Supreme Court calls crypto ban unrealistic, urges regulatory action. Fraud case involving 2,091 BTC drives court scrutiny. Court compares Bitcoin trading to hawala, flags urgent oversight need. On May 19, 2025, India’s Supreme Court questioned why the central government has yet to create clear rules for cryptocurrencies. Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh said banning digital assets would be like “shutting your eyes to the ground reality.” Instead, they urged regulatory action, not prohibition. The bench said, “We aren’t experts. Experts would examine it, but some steps to regulate it and have an eye on it are necessary.” Supreme Court to India Gov: Regulate Crypto, Don’t Ignore Reality The justices emphasized that the government must act with the help of domain experts to monitor the fast-evolving crypto market. They referred to a previous case where the Attorney General claimed regulation was impossible due to the international nature of crypto, which the court found inadequate. The court highlighted the contradiction in India’s approach: taxing crypto at 30% plus 1% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source), all while lacking any f… The post India’s Supreme Court Pressures Government to Regulate Crypto, Not Ban It appeared first on Coin Edition .