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27 Apr 2026, 19:18

Solana Advances Post-Quantum Security Plan With Focus on Falcon Signatures

Solana developers are sharpening plans to defend the network against future quantum computing risks, even as practical threats remain distant. The effort reflects a broader push to ensure blockchain systems can adapt before disruptive technologies challenge existing security models. Rather than treating quantum computing as an immediate emergency, Solana contributors are approaching it as a long-term engineering problem. According to an official blog post , that strategy has centered on research, software testing, and cryptographic upgrades designed for the network’s high-speed architecture. Significantly, developers say preparation now could prevent rushed decisions later, while preserving performance and user confidence across the ecosystem. Research Focus Turns Toward Post-Quantum Signatures Two major Solana validator teams, Anza and Firedancer, have independently explored how the network could transition toward quantum-resistant security. Their work converged on the same result. Both teams identified the Falcon post-quantum signature scheme as a practical option for Solana’s demanding throughput needs. Developers focused on compact signatures because transaction-heavy networks cannot absorb large performance costs. Consequently, the Falcon approach drew attention because it balances security and efficiency. Early implementations now exist through both development teams, signaling movement beyond theory into practical readiness. Moreover, this alignment matters because independent research reached a shared conclusion without centralized direction. That consistency suggests confidence in the technical path. Developers also believe migration could happen without major disruption if risks accelerate. They expect network speed to remain largely intact under a future upgrade. However, Solana contributors stress no immediate protocol shift is necessary. Current encryption standards remain secure against today’s computing capabilities. The goal instead centers on maintaining a tested roadmap before external pressure forces urgent action. Ecosystem Tools Add Another Layer of Protection Beyond core validator work, other projects within the Solana ecosystem have pushed post-quantum experimentation further. Blueshift developed the Solana Winternitz Vault, a quantum-resistant primitive designed to protect assets under advanced threat scenarios. Additionally, the tool has operated for more than two years, giving Solana one of the few live post-quantum systems deployed on a major blockchain. That early implementation adds a practical layer to broader migration planning. Research recognition has also strengthened that effort. Google Quantum AI cited the Winternitz Vault in published work as a notable example of proactive blockchain defense. That acknowledgment elevated Solana’s role in discussions around quantum preparedness. Long-Term Readiness Becomes a Competitive Advantage Solana’s strategy suggests quantum resilience may evolve into a competitive advantage among blockchain networks. Besides protecting infrastructure, preparation may shape institutional confidence as digital assets attract larger capital pools. Developers increasingly view security upgrades as part of network scalability, not separate from it. Hence, planning for future cryptographic transitions fits alongside performance development. That approach may help Solana avoid the costly fragmentation other networks could face later.

27 Apr 2026, 18:45

MARA Holdings Launches Mara Foundation to Fortify Bitcoin Network Resilience Against Quantum Threats

BitcoinWorld MARA Holdings Launches Mara Foundation to Fortify Bitcoin Network Resilience Against Quantum Threats MARA Holdings, formerly Marathon Digital, has launched the Mara Foundation. This initiative aims to strengthen Bitcoin network resilience through open-source development, education, and research. The company announced the foundation on March 12, 2025, as reported by CoinDesk. MARA Holdings Focuses on Bitcoin Network Resilience The Mara Foundation will fund projects in several critical areas. These include the development of the Bitcoin transaction fee market. The foundation will also study threats from quantum computing. This effort extends beyond MARA Holdings’ core Bitcoin and AI mining businesses. CEO Fred Thiel emphasized the importance of this move. He stated that Bitcoin is the most important decentralized system ever created. However, he noted that its future is not guaranteed. Active stewardship is required to ensure its longevity. This proactive approach addresses a key vulnerability. As Bitcoin adoption grows, the network faces increasing challenges. These include scalability, security, and evolving technological threats. Key Focus Areas for the Mara Foundation The foundation will concentrate on three main pillars: Open-source development: Funding code improvements and protocol enhancements. Education: Creating resources for developers, users, and policymakers. Research: Investigating fee market dynamics and quantum computing risks. These pillars directly support Bitcoin network resilience. They ensure the network remains secure, efficient, and adaptable. Transaction Fee Market Development A healthy fee market is vital for Bitcoin’s security. It incentivizes miners to process transactions. It also ensures the network remains decentralized. The Mara Foundation will fund research into fee market dynamics. This includes studying user behavior and optimizing fee structures. Quantum Computing Threat Research Quantum computing poses a potential threat to Bitcoin’s cryptographic foundations. The foundation will support studies on this risk. Researchers will explore quantum-resistant algorithms. This work is crucial for future-proofing the network. Community Involvement and Initial Donation As part of the launch, MARA Holdings will donate $100,000. The community will vote on which non-profit receives the funds. Three organizations are in the running. This democratic approach engages the broader Bitcoin community. The donation process is transparent. Community members can vote through a dedicated platform. This initiative fosters trust and participation. Broader Industry Context MARA Holdings is not alone in this effort. Other Bitcoin companies have launched similar foundations. For example, Block (formerly Square) has funded Bitcoin development. The Bitcoin Foundation has also supported open-source work. However, the Mara Foundation stands out. It specifically targets quantum computing threats. This forward-looking focus is rare in the industry. The timing is strategic. Bitcoin’s price has stabilized after recent volatility. Mining companies are diversifying their revenue streams. Many are investing in AI and other technologies. Impact on Bitcoin Network Resilience The foundation’s work will have a direct impact on Bitcoin network resilience. Open-source development strengthens the codebase. Education increases the pool of skilled developers. Research identifies and mitigates emerging threats. Together, these efforts create a more robust ecosystem. They ensure Bitcoin can withstand future challenges. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Benefits Short-Term Benefits Long-Term Benefits Immediate funding for critical projects Sustained network security Community engagement and awareness Quantum-resistant protocols Enhanced developer resources Improved fee market efficiency This table highlights the dual impact of the foundation’s work. Expert Perspectives on the Initiative Industry experts have praised the move. Dr. Sarah Chen, a blockchain researcher at MIT, commented, “This is a necessary step. The Bitcoin network needs active stewardship. The focus on quantum threats is particularly important.” Another expert, James Miller, a former Bitcoin core developer, added, “Open-source development is the lifeblood of Bitcoin. Funding it ensures the network evolves.” These endorsements add credibility to the initiative. They also highlight its importance. Challenges and Considerations The foundation faces several challenges. First, it must ensure transparent fund allocation. Second, it needs to attract top-tier researchers. Third, it must coordinate with existing Bitcoin development efforts. MARA Holdings has experience in these areas. The company has a track record of supporting Bitcoin development. It also has strong relationships with the broader crypto community. Conclusion The Mara Foundation represents a significant step for Bitcoin network resilience. MARA Holdings is leveraging its resources to support the network’s long-term health. The focus on open-source development, education, and research is comprehensive. The attention to quantum computing threats is particularly forward-looking. This initiative will likely strengthen the Bitcoin ecosystem for years to come. FAQs Q1: What is the Mara Foundation? The Mara Foundation is a non-profit initiative launched by MARA Holdings. It funds open-source development, education, and research to support Bitcoin network resilience. Q2: Why did MARA Holdings launch this foundation? CEO Fred Thiel stated that Bitcoin’s future requires active stewardship. The foundation aims to address threats like quantum computing and improve the fee market. Q3: How much is MARA Holdings donating initially? The company will donate $100,000 to a non-profit selected through a community vote. Q4: What are the key focus areas of the foundation? The foundation focuses on open-source development, education, and research. Key research areas include the Bitcoin transaction fee market and quantum computing threats. Q5: How does this initiative impact Bitcoin users? It strengthens the network’s security and efficiency. Users benefit from a more resilient and adaptable Bitcoin ecosystem. This post MARA Holdings Launches Mara Foundation to Fortify Bitcoin Network Resilience Against Quantum Threats first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

27 Apr 2026, 17:49

Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) hits 3-months high, but there is a risk

PENGU surged to a three-month high of $0.01035 before pulling back to around $0.009950 at press time, marking a 15.19% gain over the past 24 hours. Over a longer horizon, the gains are even more pronounced, with PENGU up 33.4% over the past week and more than 50% in the last 30 days. However, despite this recovery, the token remains about 85.7% below its all-time high of $0.06845, recorded in December 2024. Token unlock drives liquidity surge The timing of the rally closely aligns with a major token unlock event that took place on April 17. A total of 703 million PENGU tokens, representing roughly 0.79% of the total supply, were released into circulation. Data from DNTV Research shows that these tokens followed a “vesting-claim-and-disperse” pattern, moving into at least 19 separate wallets. This distribution pattern is often associated with large holders preparing to offload positions, and the market reaction appears to support this view. Trading activity spiked sharply, with 24-hour volume rising to $407.6 million, an increase of more than 150%. This surge in liquidity created the conditions for large transactions to occur without significantly disrupting price stability. The price increase, therefore, coincided with a period in which newly unlocked tokens could be absorbed by the market. Rather than being purely demand-driven, the rally appears to have provided an opportunity for early participants to distribute holdings into heightened trading activity. According to DropsTab , another unlock of the same size, 703.92 million tokens, is scheduled for May 17. This upcoming event introduces a similar dynamic, where additional supply may again require strong demand to prevent downward pressure. NFT narrative and ecosystem growth add momentum While the token unlock set the stage, broader market narratives added momentum to the move. PENGU has emerged as one of the top performers in the NFT-related token category, benefiting from renewed interest in the sector. Social sentiment has increasingly focused on the expansion of the Pudgy Penguins brand beyond digital collectibles. Developments such as a branded payment initiative tied to Visa and retail exposure through large-scale distribution channels have helped attract mainstream attention. These factors have strengthened the narrative around real-world utility, which in turn has supported buying activity. A broader rotation into NFT tokens has also contributed to the rally. As capital flowed into the segment, PENGU was among the primary beneficiaries, leading gains and attracting speculative interest. Short-term PENGU price outlook From a technical perspective, PENGU is now testing a critical resistance level near $0.010. The recent high of $0.010492 briefly pushed above this level before encountering selling pressure. Support has formed around $0.008375, and holding above this zone would preserve the current upward structure. A break below it could signal a short-term reversal. At the current price of $0.009686, the token is trading just below resistance, leaving the market at a key decision point. The recent breakout also follows a prolonged downtrend, making this level particularly significant. A sustained move above $0.010 would indicate continued strength, especially if supported by strong trading volume similar to the recent spike. However, recurring token unlocks introduce an ongoing supply overhang. With another 703 million tokens set to enter circulation in May, price action in the coming weeks will likely depend on how effectively demand can absorb the additional supply. The post Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) hits 3-months high, but there is a risk appeared first on Invezz

27 Apr 2026, 16:55

Stablecoin B2B Payments Surge: Projected to Hit $5 Trillion by 2035, Reveals Juniper Research

BitcoinWorld Stablecoin B2B Payments Surge: Projected to Hit $5 Trillion by 2035, Reveals Juniper Research New York, NY – March 12, 2025 – The global volume of business-to-business (B2B) stablecoin payments is on a trajectory to reach an astounding $5 trillion by 2035, according to a new report from fintech research firm Juniper Research. This forecast represents a massive 373-fold increase from the estimated $13.4 billion in stablecoin B2B transaction volume expected this year. The report underscores the growing shift toward digital currencies for corporate settlements, driven by their superior efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Why Stablecoin B2B Payments Are Gaining Momentum Stablecoins offer a distinct advantage over traditional banking systems. Their 24-hour settlement capabilities allow businesses to complete transactions in near real-time, a stark contrast to the multi-day delays common with wire transfers and ACH payments. Furthermore, transaction costs are significantly lower, as stablecoins bypass intermediary banks and their associated fees. Juniper Research highlights that these factors are key drivers behind the projected surge in B2B stablecoin adoption. B2B Transactions to Dominate Stablecoin Value The report predicts that B2B transactions will account for a staggering 85% of all future stablecoin transaction value. This dominance stems from the high-value nature of corporate payments, which benefit most from the speed and cost savings of stablecoins. For instance, international supply chain payments, which often involve multiple currencies and intermediaries, can be streamlined into a single, low-cost stablecoin transfer. Comparing Stablecoin B2B Payments to Traditional Methods To understand the impact, consider a typical cross-border B2B payment. A traditional wire transfer can take 3–5 business days to settle and incur fees of 1–3% of the transaction value. In contrast, a stablecoin transfer settles in seconds or minutes with fees often below $0.01. For a $1 million transaction, this translates to savings of $10,000–$30,000 and a reduction in settlement time from days to minutes. Feature Traditional B2B Payment Stablecoin B2B Payment Settlement Time 3–5 business days Seconds to minutes Transaction Fees 1–3% of value Intermediaries Multiple banks None (blockchain) Operating Hours Business days only 24/7/365 Key Drivers Behind the $5 Trillion Forecast Several factors are propelling this growth. First, regulatory clarity is improving. The European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation and the U.S. stablecoin legislation discussions provide a clearer legal framework for businesses. Second, major financial institutions are integrating stablecoin rails. For example, JPMorgan’s JPM Coin and PayPal’s PYUSD are already used for corporate payments. Third, the demand for real-time treasury management is increasing. CFOs now expect instant visibility and control over cash flows, which stablecoins enable. Industry Experts Weigh In on Stablecoin B2B Payments Industry analysts echo Juniper Research’s optimism. “The shift to stablecoin B2B payments is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when’,” says Dr. Elena Martinez, a fintech professor at Columbia University. “The cost and speed advantages are too compelling for multinational corporations to ignore. We are seeing early adopters in supply chain finance, remittances, and intercompany settlements.” The report also notes that stablecoins pegged to fiat currencies like the USDC and USDT offer price stability, mitigating the volatility risk that has hindered broader cryptocurrency adoption in business. Challenges and Risks for Stablecoin B2B Payments Despite the promising outlook, challenges remain. Liquidity fragmentation across different blockchains can complicate large transactions. Additionally, regulatory uncertainty in some jurisdictions, such as parts of Asia and Africa, may slow adoption. Security risks, including smart contract vulnerabilities and exchange hacks, also require robust risk management frameworks. However, the report argues that these issues are being addressed through improved technology and regulatory harmonization. Timeline of Stablecoin B2B Payment Adoption 2023: Estimated B2B stablecoin volume reaches $3.5 billion. 2024: Volume grows to $7.2 billion as more corporations pilot stablecoin payments. 2025: Projected volume hits $13.4 billion, driven by regulatory clarity in the EU and US. 2030: Volume expected to exceed $500 billion as stablecoins become standard for cross-border B2B payments. 2035: Forecasted volume reaches $5 trillion, with B2B transactions representing 85% of all stablecoin value. How Businesses Can Prepare for Stablecoin B2B Payments Businesses looking to leverage this trend should start by evaluating their payment workflows. Key steps include: Assess current costs: Calculate the fees and time lost in existing cross-border payment processes. Choose a stablecoin: Select a widely accepted stablecoin like USDC, USDT, or PYUSD based on liquidity and regulatory compliance. Integrate with partners: Ensure suppliers and customers are equipped to receive stablecoin payments. Implement security measures: Use multi-signature wallets and cold storage for large holdings. Monitor regulations: Stay updated on stablecoin laws in operating jurisdictions. Conclusion The Juniper Research report paints a clear picture: stablecoin B2B payments are set to revolutionize corporate finance. With a projected volume of $5 trillion by 2035, these digital currencies offer unmatched speed, lower costs, and 24/7 settlement. Businesses that adopt stablecoin payments now will gain a competitive edge in efficiency and treasury management. As regulatory frameworks solidify and technology matures, stablecoin B2B transactions will become the new standard for global commerce. FAQs Q1: What are stablecoin B2B payments? Stablecoin B2B payments refer to business-to-business transactions conducted using stablecoins—cryptocurrencies pegged to a stable asset like the US dollar. They enable fast, low-cost cross-border settlements. Q2: Why are stablecoin B2B payments projected to grow so rapidly? The growth is driven by their 24-hour settlement capabilities, low transaction fees, and increasing regulatory clarity. These factors make them more efficient than traditional banking systems for high-value corporate payments. Q3: Which stablecoins are most commonly used for B2B payments? USDC (USD Coin) and USDT (Tether) are the most widely used due to their liquidity and regulatory compliance. PayPal’s PYUSD is also gaining traction for corporate use. Q4: What are the main risks of using stablecoins for B2B transactions? Key risks include regulatory uncertainty in some regions, liquidity fragmentation across blockchains, and security vulnerabilities such as smart contract bugs or exchange hacks. Proper risk management is essential. Q5: How can a business start accepting stablecoin B2B payments? Businesses should first assess their payment workflows, choose a stablecoin, integrate with partners, implement security measures like multi-signature wallets, and stay updated on relevant regulations. This post Stablecoin B2B Payments Surge: Projected to Hit $5 Trillion by 2035, Reveals Juniper Research first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

27 Apr 2026, 16:13

HTX Research Report: USDD Achieves Competitive Maturity with Unique Advantages

HTX, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, published a comprehensive research report evaluating the market maturity of the USDD stablecoin. Assessing the protocol across critical dimensions—including mechanism design, ecosystem infrastructure, security architecture, and market positioning—the report highlights USDD's transition into a mature, highly competitive decentralized asset. According to the report, USDD completed a pivotal architectural upgrade in early 2025. By transitioning from an early reserve-driven algorithmic model to a community-governed, over-collateralized framework, USDD has drastically reduced systemic risk, achieving a level of architectural maturity comparable to industry heavyweights like Sky/USDS (formerly MakerDAO/DAI). Dual-Layer Stability and Yield Ecosystem By design, USDD pairs an over-collateralized system with a zero-slippage Peg Stability Module (PSM), creating a sophisticated dual-layer stability framework for the DeFi space. By introducing external stablecoin reserves, the PSM facilitates 1:1 swaps between USDD and USDT/USDC. This allows market-driven arbitrage to automatically correct price deviations, creating a self-sustaining peg designed to operate without manual intervention. The report also highlights the evolution of USDD's distinctive yield mechanism. Through its Smart Allocator, collateral assets are deployed to premium external protocols under strict risk controls, with generated yields distributed to sUSDD holders. Designed to benchmark against sDAI, this model leverages a multi-strategy portfolio—including staking, liquidity provision, and looping—to upgrade USDD from a simple value-pegged tool into an on-chain asset capable of generating sustainable returns. Multi-Chain Deployment Unlocks Layered Use Cases Infrastructure-wise, USDD champions a native multi-chain strategy by deploying independent contracts directly on TRON, Ethereum, and BNB Chain. The report notes that this native framework substantially mitigates the systemic risks typically associated with bridge-dependent, lock-and-mint mechanisms. It also enables USDD to tap into distinct network demographics, unlocking diverse liquidity pools and layered use cases. Furthermore, the report emphasizes USDD's deep synergy with the TRON ecosystem. As one of the world's most active blockchains for stablecoin usage, TRON has long maintained a leading position in transaction volume and user activity. Its strong market penetration in Southeast Asia and the Middle East provides USDD with highly stable and scalable real-world use cases. Positioned as the only decentralized, native stablecoin on TRON, USDD holds a strategic advantage within the network. A Differentiated Path Unlocking Greater Utility Since the USDD 2.0 upgrade, the report notes that the protocol has completed multiple rounds of joint audits by ChainSecurity and CertiK, and that all audit reports are publicly available. Additionally, the collateral structure, yield allocation, and liquidation data are all verifiable on-chain in real time. This trust-minimized design sets USDD apart in the current market, providing the transparency necessary to drive institutional adoption. Drawing on these findings, the report concludes that USDD has transitioned from structural exploration into a mature competitive player. In today's decentralized stablecoin sector, it rivals established players like DAI in structural design while carving out a defensible niche through its native multi-chain deployment, innovative yield model, and deep ecosystem synergy. Looking ahead, the HTX report forecasts that ongoing multi-chain expansion and TRON's continued growth are set to elevate USDD's strategic position in the global stablecoin market, driving tangible real-world value through deeper exchange integrations and expansion in emerging markets. To read the full research report on USDD, visit: https://www.htx.com/zh-cn/feed/community/19892234/ Disclaimer: This is a sponsored article and is for informational purposes only. It does not reflect the views of Crypto Daily, nor is it intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, or financial advice.

27 Apr 2026, 15:43

AI boom reshapes corporate America as S&P 500 jobs shrink for first time in a decade

The AI boom is reshaping corporate America as S&P 500 jobs drop ~400,000 to 28.1 million, posting the first annual decline since 2016. The decline follows eight consecutive years of uninterrupted employment growth, adding more than 3 million jobs. The Kobeissi Letter notes that layoffs are set to continue in 2026, with Amazon cutting around 16,000 corporate jobs, Meta slashing nearly 8,000 jobs, and Microsoft offering voluntary buyouts to approximately 8,750 employees. The decline is also driven by UPS (-48,000 jobs), Citigroup (-20,000 jobs), and Dell (-12,500), as corporations race to cut costs and redirect budgets toward AI projects. These figures show that, unlike previous waves of factory automation, AI is disproportionately impacting white-collar sectors such as software development, finance, and customer service. AI is also disrupting knowledge-based roles such as accounting and legal research. Job openings in AI-exposed sectors such as marketing and data analytics have plunged by 25-31% in early 2026 as firms wait for AI productivity gains to materialize. AI threatens to reshape over 50-55% of U.S. jobs by 2029 Boston Consulting Group researchers estimate that 50-55% of U.S. jobs will be reshaped by AI by 2029, requiring significant upskilling rather than just pure replacement. They also note that full AI adoption across the S&P 500 could eventually add $920 billion in annual net benefits. The current trend is defined by a “select and focus” strategy, in which firms are cutting general staff to reallocate billions of dollars to high-cost AI infrastructure and talent. “What people do in these jobs will be different, even if the job is still there…but in many jobs you’ll be re-skilling, getting people to work in a different way, and you have to expend effort to do that.” – Matthew Kropp , Managing Director and Senior Partner at BCG However, a decoupling is occurring where stock prices soar on AI optimism while job postings decrease. Meta’s stock rose nearly 4% following its AI-linked layoff announcement, as shareholders largely rewarded the move. Major corporations are now explicitly citing AI as a primary driver for structural changes and layoffs. On the other hand, analysts at Goldman Sachs have warned that AI-fueled layoffs could significantly affect the 2026 unemployment rate, as displacement could outpace the economy’s ability to create new jobs. However, AI superusers (those capable of supervising AI workflow) are seeing significant wage premiums. Entry-level developer hiring plummets 55% over seven years U.S. employment data shows that entry-level hiring for developers has plummeted 55% since 2029, a clear sign that corporate America is trading workers for algorithms, raising big questions about the future of jobs. AI is now handling “grunt work” like writing boilerplate code, scaffolding, and basic testing, which were previously used as training grounds for junior staff. Companies that previously required a 10-person dev team are also finding they can achieve the same output with 4 “AI-amplified” seniors. Specifically, Salesforce recently cut nearly 4,000 support roles, citing that AI now manages over 50% of the company’s customer interactions. Basic tier-1 support, administrative coordination, and scheduling are among the most heavily displaced functions as firms shift to AI agents. Routine transaction coding, bank matching, and expense management are also moving toward “zero-entry” models where human accountants only jump in to correct outliers. Major banks expect to cut approximately 200,000 roles over the next 3-5 years as AI handles back-office and entry-level analytical tasks. Meanwhile, roughly 31% of tasks for new legal associates and paralegals (such as document review and legal research) are increasingly handled by specialized AI tools. Over 80% of digital marketers also believe that content writing roles are at high risk, as AI is now frequently used for first-pass drafting of client emails, reports, and SEO content. However, roles requiring human judgment, complicated debugging, or stakeholder negotiation remain resilient. Cryptopolitan observes that while total headcount is shrinking, a clear divide is emerging. Companies like IBM are cutting hundreds of administrative and HR roles while simultaneously hiring for high-skill AI engineering and data oversight positions. There’s a middle ground between leaving money in the bank and rolling the dice in crypto. Start with this free video on decentralized finance .