7 Aug 2025, 09:55

Bitcoin DeFi Project BOB Secures $9.5M in Landmark Funding

BitcoinWorld Bitcoin DeFi Project BOB Secures $9.5M in Landmark Funding The world of cryptocurrencies is constantly evolving, and a major milestone has just been reached that promises to reshape the landscape of Bitcoin DeFi . Bitcoin layer-2 project BOB recently announced a significant capital injection, securing an additional $9.5 million in a strategic BOB funding round. This latest investment brings their total financing to an impressive $21.1 million, signaling strong confidence from investors in their vision for expanding Decentralized Finance on Bitcoin. What Does This Significant BOB Funding Mean? This substantial BOB funding round was spearheaded by Castle Island Ventures, a prominent name in the venture capital space. New investors, including Anchorage, Amber Group, and Sats Ventures, joined existing backers like Ledger Cathay Fund, RockawayX, Asymmetric, and UTXO Management. This diverse group of investors highlights the broad industry support for BOB’s innovative approach to Bitcoin Layer-2 solutions. The capital infusion is set to accelerate the development of BOB’s unique hybrid BitVM model. This model aims to unlock a new realm of use cases and liquidity within the Bitcoin DeFi ecosystem. For those interested in the future of crypto, this development is certainly one to watch closely. Why is Bitcoin Layer-2 Innovation Crucial for DeFi? Bitcoin, despite being the pioneer cryptocurrency, traditionally lacks the smart contract capabilities seen in platforms like Ethereum. This limitation has historically hindered its direct involvement in complex Decentralized Finance applications. However, Bitcoin Layer-2 solutions are changing this narrative. These layers build on top of Bitcoin’s foundational security, enabling faster, cheaper, and more complex transactions without compromising the network’s core principles. BOB’s BitVM model is a prime example, aiming to integrate Ethereum’s Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility with Bitcoin’s robust security. This integration is a game-changer for Bitcoin DeFi , as it allows developers to build sophisticated DApps directly on Bitcoin. The implications are profound: Increased Liquidity: More capital can flow into DeFi protocols directly from Bitcoin. New Use Cases: Complex financial instruments and applications become possible. Enhanced Security: Leveraging Bitcoin’s unparalleled network security for DeFi. How Will This Crypto Funding Impact Decentralized Finance? The recent Crypto Funding secured by BOB is not just a win for one project; it is a significant boost for the entire Decentralized Finance sector, especially for Bitcoin-centric initiatives. It demonstrates a growing investor appetite for projects that bridge the gap between Bitcoin’s security and DeFi’s innovation. This trend suggests a maturation of the crypto market, where fundamental infrastructure improvements are attracting substantial investment. With this fresh capital, BOB plans to expand its team, enhance its technology, and foster a vibrant developer community. The goal is to make Bitcoin DeFi more accessible and functional for a wider audience. This move could potentially onboard millions of Bitcoin holders into the DeFi space, unlocking immense value. What’s Next for Bitcoin DeFi and BOB? The success of BOB in securing this substantial BOB funding underscores a critical shift towards making Bitcoin a more active participant in the broader crypto economy. As Bitcoin Layer-2 solutions like BOB’s BitVM continue to evolve, we can expect a surge in new applications, from lending and borrowing protocols to decentralized exchanges, all built on the most secure blockchain. The journey to a fully integrated Bitcoin DeFi ecosystem is still ongoing, but milestones like this funding round provide strong momentum. It signals a future where Bitcoin is not just a store of value but also a dynamic platform for innovation and financial freedom. This expansion will ultimately benefit users seeking robust and secure decentralized financial services. Summary: A New Era for Bitcoin DeFi BOB’s impressive $9.5 million BOB funding round marks a pivotal moment for the advancement of Bitcoin DeFi . By leveraging Bitcoin Layer-2 technology and its innovative BitVM model, BOB is poised to unlock new frontiers in Decentralized Finance . This significant Crypto Funding not only validates BOB’s vision but also signals a broader trend towards integrating Bitcoin more deeply into the decentralized economy. The future of finance looks increasingly bright with these advancements. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is BOB, and what does it do? BOB, or Build on Bitcoin, is a Bitcoin Layer-2 project that aims to bring smart contract capabilities and Decentralized Finance (DeFi) applications to the Bitcoin network. It uses a hybrid BitVM model to achieve this. How much funding has BOB raised in total? With this latest strategic funding round of $9.5 million, BOB has now raised a total of $21.1 million in financing. What is a Bitcoin Layer-2 solution? A Bitcoin Layer-2 solution is a protocol built on top of the main Bitcoin blockchain. It aims to improve scalability, reduce transaction costs, and enable more complex functionalities, like smart contracts, without altering Bitcoin’s core security. Who are the key investors in BOB’s funding round? The recent $9.5 million round was led by Castle Island Ventures, with new investors including Anchorage, Amber Group, and Sats Ventures. Existing backers like Ledger Cathay Fund, RockawayX, Asymmetric, and UTXO Management also participated. How will this funding impact Bitcoin DeFi? This funding will accelerate the development of BOB’s technology, enabling new Bitcoin DeFi use cases and increasing liquidity. It will help integrate Bitcoin more deeply into the decentralized finance ecosystem, making it more functional for complex applications. If you found this article insightful, please consider sharing it with your network! Your support helps us bring more valuable insights into the world of cryptocurrency and Decentralized Finance. To learn more about the latest Bitcoin DeFi trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin institutional adoption. This post Bitcoin DeFi Project BOB Secures $9.5M in Landmark Funding first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

7 Aug 2025, 08:30

Senators think DeepSeek could leak data or aid Chinese military

A group of Republicans led by Senator Ted Budd has called for an inquiry into China’s DeepSeek over potential national security threats. They believe the company’s open-source AI model, known as R1, could leak U.S. user data. The U.S. lawmakers sent a letter about the inquiry to the U.S. Commerce Department on August 1, which was made public on Tuesday. The senators argued that the company’s AI model could leak U.S. user data to aid China’s military and surveillance efforts. DeepSeek accesses chat history and secret keys Recent reports that DeepSeek AI is sharing U.S. data with China’s government are deeply troubling. @SenTedBuddNC and I are asking the Commerce Department to ensure Americans are protected from these potential vulnerabilities. https://t.co/KdIrfRbpD1 — Senator Todd Young (@SenToddYoung) August 5, 2025 The U.S. officials also highlighted that R1 offers open-source access, which allows software engineers to modify portions of its code to meet specific purposes. They are also concerned that the AI model has been found to produce potentially harmful content at higher rates than U.S. models. Wiz Research found the R1 had a publicly accessible database belonging to DeepSeek. According to the firm, the archive allowed full control over its operations, including the ability to access internal data. The research company also found sensitive information like chat history and secret keys on more than a million lines of log streams. The senators argued that DeepSeek’s R1 did not undergo comprehensive safety tests to prevent the generation of harmful content before release. They cited an example by The Wall Street Journal, where the model produced instructions for a social media campaign encouraging self-harm among teenagers, as well as guidance for developing a bioweapon. The U.S. officials said such outputs show the dangers of deploying permissively licensed AI models without supervision. CEO of ByteNova, Chris Anderson, believes that restrictions in government systems may be warranted. He also warned of potential broader tradeoffs in the industry. “When provenance and auditability are unclear, enterprises risk unknowingly exposing sensitive data or enabling adversarial misuse.” -Chris Anderson, CEO of ByteNova. Anderson also argued that a ban on AI will lead to a monopoly among AI companies in the U.S. He believes it will slow down some AI innovations and cause issues, noting how those issues add to the challenge of decentralizing AI innovation outside of the U.S. The Senators also noted that China had found a way of embedding open-source AI models into applications and services despite its restricted access to the most advanced computer resources. The country made the improvements as part of its plan to compete with the U.S. for global AI leadership. China’s President Xi Jinping said at an April 2025 Politburo meeting that the country’s AI sector needs to be strongly oriented toward applications. Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei also mentioned that there will be a flurry of open-source software programs to meet the entire society’s needs. The senators also acknowledged that the U.S. has previously recognized threats posed by technology companies in China, such as Huawei. The U.S. Congress pushed to remove Huawei’s hardware from the country’s networks after determining that it could provide surveillance for Beijing. Senators urge U.S. government to identify threats posed by DeepSeek On #DeepSeek , the Chinese government attaches great importance to data privacy and security and protects it in accordance with the law. We have never asked and will never ask any company or individual to collect or store data against laws. China has all along opposed moves to… pic.twitter.com/uDR2QlxblC — CHINA MFA Spokesperson 中国外交部发言人 (@MFA_China) February 6, 2025 The U.S. officials urged the U.S. government to identify and evaluate any potential backdoors or vulnerabilities posed by Chinese open-source models like DeepSeek’s R1. They want the U.S. to identify any threats regarding data collected by such models being fed back to China-based servers. The senators also want the government to identify any verifiable information on DeepSeek and other Chinese AI models feeding U.S. user data to China or companies affiliated with the PRC’s military or surveillance apparatus. They also want to know how Chinese semiconductors may have violated the use terms of U.S. models to advance their capabilities. The Republicans enquired about the U.S.’s plan to use resources like the Center for AI Standards and Innovation (CAISI) to investigate how AI applications built atop Chinese AI models could harm Americans. They would also like to know instances where Chinese AI models may have accessed export-controlled semiconductors. KEY Difference Wire : the secret tool crypto projects use to get guaranteed media coverage

7 Aug 2025, 07:53

Ripple CTO Wants to Share XRP Facts with Caitlin Long

David Schwartz, chief technology officer at Ripple, has volunteered to share "facts" about XRP and the XRP Ledger with Caitlin Long

7 Aug 2025, 07:05

Bithumb FCT2 Suspension: Crucial Update for FirmaChain Mainnet Upgrade

BitcoinWorld Bithumb FCT2 Suspension: Crucial Update for FirmaChain Mainnet Upgrade The world of cryptocurrency is always buzzing with activity, and staying informed about key developments is crucial. A significant announcement recently came from South Korean crypto exchange Bithumb regarding the Bithumb FCT2 suspension . This temporary measure holds considerable importance for users holding or trading the FCT2 token . What’s Happening with Bithumb FCT2 Suspension? Bithumb, a prominent South Korean digital asset exchange, officially announced a temporary halt to deposits and withdrawals of the FCT2 token. This suspension begins on August 21st at 03:00 UTC . Understanding the implications is key to managing digital assets effectively. It’s a strategic pause, not a permanent delisting. The primary reason behind this token deposits and withdrawals halt is to facilitate a critical infrastructure improvement. Exchanges often take such measures to ensure smooth transitions and integrity during significant network changes. This highlights the dynamic nature of crypto, where continuous upgrades are common. Why the FirmaChain Mainnet Upgrade Matters The core purpose of this suspension is to support the upcoming FirmaChain mainnet upgrade . A mainnet upgrade is a fundamental improvement to a blockchain’s core protocol, like a major software update. These upgrades are vital for several reasons: Enhanced Security: Bolsters network defenses against threats. Improved Scalability: Increases transaction capacity for faster operations. New Features: Introduces new functionalities, making the blockchain more versatile. Network Stability: Maintains overall health and stability. For the FCT2 token, this upgrade signifies a commitment to its long-term viability and performance. It’s a positive sign that the underlying technology is evolving to meet future demands. What Does This Mean for FCT2 Token Holders? If you hold FCT2 tokens on Bithumb, be aware of the upcoming suspension. While trading might continue (verify with Bithumb), the inability to move tokens in or out will affect those planning transfers. This prevents loss or corruption during transition. This situation shows why staying updated with crypto exchange updates is crucial. Users should always monitor official announcements from their exchanges to avoid unexpected issues. Proactive engagement ensures you are prepared for operational changes. Preparing for the Suspension: Actionable Insights For FCT2 token holders, these steps can help navigate the temporary suspension smoothly: Review Holdings: Confirm your FCT2 token balance on Bithumb. Plan Transfers: Adjust any intended deposits or withdrawals around August 21st. Complete necessary transactions before the 03:00 UTC deadline. Monitor Channels: Keep an eye on Bithumb’s official announcements for resumption details. Understand Timeline: The suspension is temporary, lasting only for the FirmaChain mainnet upgrade completion. This proactive approach mitigates inconvenience. It’s part of securing and enhancing blockchain networks, ultimately benefiting the entire ecosystem. A Glimpse into the Future of FCT2 and FirmaChain The temporary Bithumb FCT2 suspension for the FirmaChain mainnet upgrade exemplifies continuous evolution in blockchain. These upgrades are foundational steps towards a more robust, efficient, and secure decentralized future. For the FCT2 token, this upgrade promises enhanced infrastructure, potentially leading to better performance and broader utility. Staying informed about these crucial crypto exchange updates empowers users to make informed decisions for their digital assets. It reinforces diligence in the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. When will Bithumb suspend FCT2 deposits and withdrawals? Bithumb will temporarily suspend FCT2 token deposits and withdrawals starting at 03:00 UTC on August 21st . 2. Why is this suspension happening? The suspension is to support the upcoming FirmaChain mainnet upgrade , a significant improvement to the blockchain’s core network. 3. What is a mainnet upgrade? A mainnet upgrade is a major update to a blockchain’s underlying protocol, aiming to enhance security, scalability, introduce new features, and improve overall stability. 4. Will I still be able to trade FCT2 tokens on Bithumb during the suspension? While the suspension specifically affects token deposits and withdrawals , trading FCT2 on Bithumb might continue. Users should always verify this directly with Bithumb’s official announcements. Did you find this update on the Bithumb FCT2 suspension helpful? Share this article with your fellow crypto enthusiasts and help them stay informed about crucial crypto exchange updates and the latest developments in the blockchain space. Your shares help us keep the community informed! To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping FirmaChain and other blockchain upgrades . This post Bithumb FCT2 Suspension: Crucial Update for FirmaChain Mainnet Upgrade first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

7 Aug 2025, 06:40

Crypto Trading Bot Scams: Urgent Warning on YouTube’s Rising Threat

BitcoinWorld Crypto Trading Bot Scams: Urgent Warning on YouTube’s Rising Threat The cryptocurrency world offers exciting opportunities, but it also presents growing risks. Lately, a concerning trend has emerged: the alarming rise of crypto trading bot scams . These deceptive schemes specifically target unsuspecting users, often leveraging platforms like YouTube to lure them in. Understanding these threats is crucial for anyone involved in digital assets. What Are These YouTube Crypto Scams? Cybersecurity firm SentinelLABS recently issued a stark warning, highlighted by Cointelegraph, about a surge in these illicit activities. Scammers are now actively exploiting aged YouTube accounts, particularly those previously associated with legitimate crypto news or investment advice. They then use these seemingly credible channels to promote fraudulent crypto trading robots. These sophisticated YouTube crypto scams promise effortless profits through automated trading. However, the reality is far from it. Since last year, these operations have become rampant, leading to a collective loss of 256 ETH from victims. This significant sum underscores the severe financial danger these scams pose to the crypto community. How Do These Online Crypto Scams Operate? The method is deceptively simple yet effective. Scammers upload videos promoting fake trading bots, often using deepfake technology or stolen footage to impersonate legitimate crypto influencers. They then direct users to malicious websites or encourage them to download harmful code. Deceptive Promotions: Videos showcase unrealistic returns, promising quick and guaranteed profits with minimal effort. Malicious Code Deployment: Users are often tricked into deploying “trading bot” code that, in reality, siphons off their crypto assets directly from their wallets. Exploiting Trust: By using aged accounts, scammers capitalize on the established credibility these channels once held, making their fraudulent content appear more trustworthy. Alex Delamottea, a senior threat researcher with SentinelLABS, advises extreme caution. He warns against deploying any code promoted through influencer videos or social media posts, especially if it promises fast money. This vigilance is key to safeguarding your investments from online crypto scams . Boosting Your Digital Asset Security Protecting your cryptocurrency requires a proactive approach. Given the increasing sophistication of these threats, awareness is your first line of defense. Here are practical steps to enhance your digital asset security : Verify Sources: Always double-check the legitimacy of any channel or individual offering crypto advice. Look for official websites and verified social media accounts. Avoid “Too Good To Be True” Offers: High-yield, no-risk investment opportunities are almost always scams. Legitimate crypto trading involves inherent risks. Never Share Private Keys: Your private keys are the ultimate access to your funds. Never share them with anyone, under any circumstances. Use Hardware Wallets: For significant holdings, consider storing your crypto in a hardware wallet, which provides superior offline security. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Always use 2FA on all your crypto accounts and exchanges to add an extra layer of protection. Effective Cryptocurrency Fraud Prevention Strategies Beyond individual actions, community awareness plays a vital role in cryptocurrency fraud prevention . Reporting suspicious videos and accounts helps platforms like YouTube take down harmful content faster. Furthermore, staying informed about the latest scam tactics empowers you to identify and avoid them. Remember, the responsibility for securing your digital assets ultimately lies with you. Be skeptical, do your own research (DYOR), and prioritize security over speculative gains. The allure of quick profits can blind even experienced traders to obvious red flags when dealing with potential crypto trading bot scams . Conclusion: Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe The proliferation of crypto trading bot scams , particularly those exploiting YouTube, serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing threats in the digital asset space. By understanding how these scams operate and implementing robust digital asset security practices, you can significantly reduce your risk. Always prioritize caution and verification when navigating the exciting yet volatile world of cryptocurrency. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What are crypto trading bot scams? Crypto trading bot scams involve fraudulent schemes that promise automated, high-profit cryptocurrency trading using fake software or code, ultimately designed to steal users’ digital assets. 2. Why are YouTube accounts used for these scams? Scammers use aged YouTube accounts, often those previously related to crypto news, to leverage existing credibility. This makes their deceptive videos promoting fake trading bots appear more trustworthy to unsuspecting viewers. 3. How can I identify a fake crypto trading bot? Be wary of promises of guaranteed high returns with no risk. Legitimate trading involves risk. Also, be suspicious of requests to download executable files or share private keys, and always verify the source of any code or investment opportunity. 4. What is the most important step for digital asset security? The most important step is never to share your private keys or seed phrases with anyone. Additionally, always enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on all your accounts and use hardware wallets for significant holdings. 5. Has anyone lost money to these scams? Yes, SentinelLABS reported that scams promoting crypto trading robots through YouTube videos have led to a collective loss of 256 ETH from victims since last year. If you found this article helpful in understanding and protecting yourself from crypto trading bot scams , please consider sharing it with your network. Spreading awareness is crucial in safeguarding the wider crypto community from online crypto scams . To learn more about the latest cryptocurrency fraud prevention strategies, explore our article on key developments shaping digital asset security in the evolving market. This post Crypto Trading Bot Scams: Urgent Warning on YouTube’s Rising Threat first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

7 Aug 2025, 02:27

Bitcoin Price Prediction: $218M Satsuma Raise and SMA Retest Hint at $123K Breakout

Bitcoin is trading just above $114,000, defending its ascending trendline and 50-day SMA, a key confluence zone that traders often watch for bullish continuation. This technical retest comes as institutional momentum heats up: Satsuma Technology just raised $218 million in BTC-denominated funding, adding to a broader wave of long-term capital moving into Bitcoin. With higher lows forming since April and major players like pension funds and SBI Holdings expanding crypto exposure, the setup for a breakout toward $123K is becoming harder to ignore. Satsuma’s Bold Bitcoin Bet London-based Satsuma Technology has made headlines with a $217.6 million convertible credit note , the first of its kind in the UK to be fully subscribed in Bitcoin. This funding round, backed by Pantera Capital, Kraken, Blockchain.com, and UK asset managers overseeing more than £300 billion, outperformed its target by 63%. JUST IN: Satsuma Technology raises $217.6M to expand Bitcoin treasury strategy. pic.twitter.com/t0bFAv80Qy — ChainDesk (@ChainDesk_) August 6, 2025 Despite the positive momentum, Satsuma’s stock slipped 14%, a move analysts attribute to profit-taking and short-term volatility. CEO Henry Elder confirmed the capital will support their plan to fuse decentralized AI infrastructure via Bittensor with a Bitcoin-native treasury strategy. Currently holding 1,126 BTC at an average entry of $115,149, Satsuma’s position is nearly break-even, reflecting firm conviction in Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory amid broader market turbulence. The raise aligns with a growing macro trend: $7.8 billion in crypto asset acquisitions were disclosed last week, with $2.7 billion flowing into Bitcoin alone. Bitcoin (BTC/USD) Technical Setup Points to Breakout Bitcoin is showing notable technical strength. Price action around $114,980 is consolidating just above two key supports: The 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at $112,860 Long-term ascending trendline stretching back to April. This confluence zone, where resistance has flipped into support, is often a bullish continuation signal. Bitcoin Price Chart – Source: Tradingview RSI is about to cross above 50, which could be the start of the bullish momentum. The chart shows a broad ascending triangle with higher lows and accumulation below $123,206. A break above this level could unleash the buyers towards $131,337 and $138,680. If the trendline holds, it’s a stair-step rally. But if it breaks below $111,995 it could shift the sentiment and open the door for a drop to $105,225 or $99,500. Volume confirmation and a bullish engulfing candle above $115,000 would be the perfect entry for swing traders. BTC Trade Setup (Short-Term): Entry: Break above $115,000 Targets: $123,200 Stop-Loss: Below $113,800 If this triangle breakout confirms, bulls could regain control, especially if paired with renewed institutional inflows and ETF stability. Institutions Double Down on BTC In the U.S., the Michigan State Retirement System just tripled its Bitcoin ETF exposure, adding 200,000 shares of the ARK 21Shares BTC ETF to its portfolio, now valued at $11.4 million. This comes despite over $1.4 billion in outflows across U.S. ETFs last week, signaling long-term conviction. Michigan also holds $13.6 million in Grayscale’s Ethereum Trust , unchanged since 2024. Though crypto remains a small slice of its $19.3 billion portfolio, analysts say the Sharpe ratio for Bitcoin is increasingly attractive for pension strategies seeking asymmetric returns with manageable risk. Michigan State Pension Triples Bitcoin ETF Exposure, Latest Filing Shows ► https://t.co/kllKdIYnpZ https://t.co/kllKdIYnpZ — Decrypt (@DecryptMedia) August 6, 2025 Across the Pacific, Japan’s SBI Holdings is awaiting approval for the country’s first Bitcoin-XRP ETF. If greenlit, it would be listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange — unlocking institutional access in a tightly regulated market. A second ETF, blending gold and crypto, is also in the pipeline. These developments could dramatically boost Asian inflows, especially if Japan’s Financial Services Agency reclassifies crypto under the FIEA statute — a shift that could redefine institutional access across the region. What’s Next for BTC? With BTC holding support near $115K and institutional narratives strengthening across the U.S., U.K., and Japan, the foundation is set for a bullish continuation. If the ascending triangle plays out, Bitcoin could break through $123K resistance and revisit $131K or $138K in the near term and possibly set the stage for a Q4 run toward $250K or higher. Bitcoin Hyper Presale Over $7.3M as Price Rise Nears Bitcoin Hyper ($HYPER) , the first BTC-native Layer 2 powered by the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM), has raised over $7.3 million in its public presale, with $7,310,393 out of a $7,502,850 target. The token is priced at $0.01255, with the next price tier expected to be announced soon. Designed to merge Bitcoin’s security with Solana’s speed, Bitcoin Hyper enables fast, low-cost smart contracts, dApps, and meme coin creation, all with seamless BTC bridging. The project is audited by Consult and engineered for scalability, trust, and simplicity. The golden cross of meme appeal and real utility has made Bitcoin Hyper a Layer 2 contender to watch in 2025. Click Here to Participate in the Presale The post Bitcoin Price Prediction: $218M Satsuma Raise and SMA Retest Hint at $123K Breakout appeared first on Cryptonews .