hodler

30 Apr 2026, 15:13

Ripple Treasury Evernorth CEO Explains How RLUSD Could Enter Fed Payment Rails

Ripple Treasury Evernorth CEO Asheesh Birla has said a policy shift in Washington around stablecoins and “skinny master accounts” could change how digital dollars move through the U.S. payment system, with Ripple’s RLUSD potentially positioned as a settlement asset if the proposal advances. According to the X post, Birla said a Federal Reserve master account sits at the top of the U.S. payment infrastructure because it allows direct dollar settlement at the central bank. Today, access is generally limited to banks, which means payment apps and fintech firms must route transactions through banking partners. The proposed “skinny” master account model would give certain federally chartered stablecoin issuers a limited form of direct access to Fed payment rails. These accounts would be narrower than traditional master accounts and would not include full banking privileges. Skinny Master Accounts Could Shift Stablecoin Settlement The proposal would allow eligible payment stablecoin issuers to settle dollars more directly through systems such as FedNow and Fedwire. Supporters say this could reduce reliance on sponsor banks and shorten settlement chains between stablecoin networks and bank accounts. The accounts are expected to carry restrictions. They would not earn interest, allow overdrafts, or provide access to emergency lending through the Fed’s discount window. For stablecoin issuers, direct access to central bank settlement could reduce operational risk tied to commercial bank reserves. It could also make redemption and movement between stablecoins and bank accounts faster. The policy discussion is developing alongside the GENIUS Act, which created a federal framework for payment stablecoins. The law requires permitted issuers to hold one-to-one reserves in high-quality liquid assets and comply with anti-money laundering rules. RLUSD Fits Regulated Stablecoin Debate Birla said Ripple’s RLUSD could fit the direction of the policy debate because it is issued through Ripple’s New York-regulated trust structure. He said that the profile is close to what a skinny master account proposal may contemplate. RLUSD has expanded rapidly since launching in December 2024, with its market capitalization moving toward $1.6 billion. The stablecoin has also been integrated across trading, settlement, and tokenization use cases. As we reported recently, Ripple has been positioning RLUSD for institutional settlement, trading, and tokenized asset markets. The stablecoin is available on OKX across more than 280 spot trading pairs and can be used in selected trading and collateral workflows. RLUSD is also being used in tokenization and settlement settings. The stablecoin has been integrated with Securitize for BlackRock’s BUIDL tokenized fund, allowing investors to exchange fund shares for RLUSD on-chain. XRP Could Serve as Movement Rail Birla said that if RLUSD qualifies for future Fed access, dollar settlement would still happen at the Federal Reserve. XRP, however, could function as a movement rail for dollar value inside the broader payment stack. Subsequently, the Ripple stablecoin RLUSD would represent the dollar stablecoin, while XRP could support transfer activity across blockchain rails, especially where fast movement and liquidity are needed. Ripple has also taken steps to align its operations with regulatory expectations. The company received conditional approval for a national trust bank charter and has applied for access to Federal Reserve accounts through affiliated entities. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to position its infrastructure within regulated financial systems Concurrently, Mastercard, Ripple, WebBank, and Gemini have been working on a pilot to settle Gemini Credit Card flows in RLUSD on the XRP Ledger. Mastercard executives have described stablecoins as another settlement currency within global payment networks. The possible Fed account model could also affect closed wallet providers such as PayPal. If stablecoin issuers gain direct access to Fed settlement, open digital dollar networks could compete more directly with app-based payment systems that rely on internal balances and banking intermediaries. However, the policy path remains unfinished. Stablecoin issuers would still need to meet federal chartering, reserve, compliance, and supervisory requirements before gaining any direct Fed account access.

30 Apr 2026, 15:12

WhiteBIT Coin (WBT) jumps above $57, just 10% below ATH: check forecast

WhiteBIT Coin (WBT) has pushed back into the spotlight after climbing above the $57 level, placing it just about 10% below its all-time high of $64.11. The move comes amid a period of unusual strength for the token, with price action showing clear independence from the broader crypto market , supported by both regulatory developments and strong trading activity. Why is the price of WBT rising? The main driver behind WBT’s recent rally is a major regulatory milestone tied to its ecosystem. WHITE TECH, a core company within the W Group associated with WhiteBIT’s founder, has received authorisation from Croatia’s financial regulator HANFA to operate under the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. This approval strengthens the ecosystem’s legal footing within the EU and is seen as a key step toward expanding regulated crypto services across Europe. The market reaction was immediate. WBT rose 4.9% within hours, moving from the mid-$53 range to around $57.26. Trading activity also surged, with 24-hour volume jumping nearly 97% to approximately $139 million, up from earlier averages of around $118 million. Such a sharp increase in participation suggests the rally is backed by strong buyer conviction rather than thin liquidity. Market structure shows controlled bullish momentum From a technical perspective, WhiteBIT Coin continues to maintain a strong upward trend. The token is trading above all major exponential moving averages (EMAs), including the 10-day, 20-day, 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day indicators. This alignment indicates that both short-term and long-term trends remain firmly bullish. WhiteBIT Coin price analysis At the same time, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands near 61.93, placing it in neutral territory and suggesting the asset is not yet overbought. WhiteBIT Coin (WBT) price forecast Looking ahead, traders are watching a clearly defined technical range. Immediate resistance lies at $58.93, followed by the key psychological level at $60. A sustained breakout above these levels could push WBT into price discovery territory and bring its previous all-time high near $64 back into focus. On the downside, initial support is seen at $55, with a stronger support zone around $54.58. A sustained break below this range could open the door to a broader correction, with medium-term projections pointing to potential retracement levels around $42.24 and, in a more extended downside scenario, near $31.94. For now, WBT remains in a structurally bullish position, supported by regulatory progress, strong trading volume, and a fully aligned moving average setup. The next decisive move will depend on whether buyers can sustain momentum above resistance or if profit-taking emerges near the $60 level. The post WhiteBIT Coin (WBT) jumps above $57, just 10% below ATH: check forecast appeared first on Invezz

30 Apr 2026, 15:10

Coinbase launches tokenized credit fund to bridge traditional credit markets with digital assets

More on Coinbase Coinbase: Bitcoin's Rising Tide Masks A Retail Moat In Structural Decline Coinbase: The 16x EV/Adjusted Ebitda Valuation Remains Attractive Coinbase: Don't Enter Just Yet Wisconsin DOJ sues Kalshi, Robinhood, Polymarket, Coinbase, Crypto.com over sports betting Coinbase-Bybit eyes tokenized U.S. stocks as volume hits $2.87B

30 Apr 2026, 15:10

Agora Stablecoin Charter: Bold OCC Application Could Reshape Crypto Banking

BitcoinWorld Agora Stablecoin Charter: Bold OCC Application Could Reshape Crypto Banking Agora applies for US federal trust bank charter to directly issue stablecoins, a move that could fundamentally alter the fiat-to-crypto conversion landscape. The cryptocurrency startup submitted its application to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) last week, as reported by CoinDesk. If approved, this charter would allow Agora to operate under direct federal supervision, bypassing traditional banking intermediaries. This development arrives at a pivotal moment for stablecoin regulation in the United States. Agora Stablecoin Charter: A Direct Path to Federal Oversight Agora’s application for a federal trust bank charter represents a strategic shift in how stablecoin issuers engage with regulators. Currently, most stablecoin companies partner with state-chartered banks or third-party custodians to manage fiat reserves. Agora’s model, however, seeks to internalize these functions. The OCC, a bureau within the U.S. Treasury Department, grants trust charters to non-depository institutions that provide fiduciary services. By securing this charter, Agora would become a federally regulated entity, subject to rigorous capital requirements, liquidity standards, and compliance audits. CEO Nick Van Eck stated that the charter could eliminate excessive fees in the fiat-to-crypto conversion process. Traditional conversion routes often involve multiple layers of intermediaries, each adding a margin. Agora’s direct issuance model would cut these costs, potentially passing savings to end users. This efficiency could accelerate stablecoin adoption for remittances, cross-border payments, and decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. Why Agora Pursues an OCC Trust Bank Charter Now The timing of Agora’s application aligns with a broader regulatory push for stablecoin clarity. In 2024, the U.S. Congress debated the Stablecoin Transparency Act, which aimed to establish a federal framework for payment stablecoins. Although the bill stalled, the OCC has taken proactive steps to regulate digital assets through existing banking laws. Agora’s move capitalizes on this regulatory momentum. Additionally, the company plans to expand its business beyond stablecoin issuance. Agora intends to offer custody services, compliance infrastructure, and blockchain-based settlement tools. This diversification positions Agora as a full-service crypto financial institution, not just a token issuer. The trust bank charter provides the legal foundation for these activities, offering a single regulatory umbrella for multiple revenue streams. Impact on Fiat-to-Crypto Conversion Fees Current conversion fees often range from 1% to 3% per transaction, depending on the payment method and provider. Agora’s direct issuance model could reduce these costs to near zero for on-chain transactions. The company’s infrastructure would connect directly to the Federal Reserve’s payment systems, enabling instant settlement in U.S. dollars. This integration eliminates the need for intermediary banks, which typically charge processing fees and hold funds for settlement periods. For context, traditional wire transfers can take 1-3 business days and cost $15-$50 per transaction. Agora’s stablecoin, if issued under a federal charter, could settle in seconds at a fraction of the cost. This efficiency appeals to both retail users and institutional clients seeking low-cost liquidity. Regulatory Landscape for Stablecoin Issuers in 2025 The stablecoin market has grown to over $200 billion in total market capitalization as of early 2025. Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) dominate the market, but both operate under state-level licenses or international frameworks. Agora’s federal charter application challenges this status quo. If approved, Agora would become the first stablecoin issuer with a direct OCC trust charter, setting a precedent for future applicants. The OCC has historically granted trust charters to non-bank entities like payment processors and digital asset custodians. In 2021, the OCC issued interpretive letters allowing national banks to custody cryptocurrencies. Agora’s application extends this logic to stablecoin issuance itself. The agency’s decision will likely hinge on Agora’s ability to demonstrate robust risk management, consumer protection measures, and anti-money laundering (AML) controls. Comparison of Stablecoin Issuance Models Model Regulator Key Advantage Key Disadvantage State Trust Charter State Banking Department Faster approval Limited interstate operations OCC Federal Trust Charter U.S. Treasury OCC Nationwide authority Stringent capital requirements Partnership with Chartered Bank OCC + State Shared compliance burden Higher fees, slower innovation Offshore Issuance Foreign Regulator Lower regulatory costs Limited U.S. market access Broader Implications for Crypto Infrastructure Agora’s application signals a maturation of the cryptocurrency industry. By seeking federal oversight, the company acknowledges that long-term growth requires regulatory clarity. This approach contrasts with earlier crypto startups that operated in regulatory gray zones. Agora’s strategy could encourage other issuers to pursue similar charters, fostering a more transparent and stable market. The company’s expansion plans include building a custody platform for institutional clients. This service would hold both fiat and digital assets under the same regulatory framework. Additionally, Agora aims to provide compliance-as-a-service tools for other fintech companies, leveraging its federal charter to offer KYC/AML solutions. These ancillary services could generate recurring revenue beyond stablecoin transaction fees. Expert Perspectives on the Application Industry analysts view Agora’s move as a calculated bet on regulatory convergence. “The OCC has signaled its willingness to engage with digital assets,” said a former Treasury official familiar with the application process. “Agora’s application tests the boundaries of what a trust charter can encompass.” The official noted that the OCC typically takes 6-12 months to review trust charter applications, meaning a decision could come in late 2025 or early 2026. Legal experts emphasize the importance of the application’s compliance framework. Agora must demonstrate that its stablecoin is fully backed by U.S. dollar reserves held at the Federal Reserve. The company also needs to implement real-time auditing mechanisms to prove reserve adequacy. These requirements align with the OCC’s focus on consumer protection and financial stability. Conclusion Agora applies for US federal trust bank charter to directly issue stablecoins, marking a potential turning point for crypto regulation. The application, if approved, would create a new template for stablecoin issuers seeking federal oversight. By reducing fiat-to-crypto conversion fees and expanding into custody and compliance services, Agora positions itself as a comprehensive crypto financial institution. The OCC’s decision will carry significant weight for the industry, influencing how other companies approach regulatory compliance. As the stablecoin market continues to grow, Agora’s move underscores the importance of integrating digital assets into the existing financial system. FAQs Q1: What is a federal trust bank charter from the OCC? A federal trust bank charter is a license issued by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency that allows a non-depository institution to provide fiduciary services, such as custody and asset management, under federal supervision. For Agora, this charter would permit direct stablecoin issuance without relying on state-level banks. Q2: How would Agora’s stablecoin differ from USDC or USDT? Agora’s stablecoin would be issued directly under a federal charter, meaning its reserves would be held at the Federal Reserve and audited by the OCC. This contrasts with USDC (regulated by state authorities) and USDT (operating under international frameworks). The direct federal oversight could offer greater transparency and lower fees. Q3: What fees does Agora aim to eliminate? Agora targets the fees charged by intermediary banks during fiat-to-crypto conversions. These include wire transfer fees, processing charges, and currency conversion margins. By connecting directly to the Federal Reserve’s payment systems, Agora can settle transactions instantly without intermediaries, reducing costs to near zero. Q4: When will the OCC decide on Agora’s application? The OCC typically reviews trust charter applications within 6 to 12 months. A decision on Agora’s application is expected in late 2025 or early 2026, depending on the complexity of the review and any public comment periods. Q5: What other services does Agora plan to offer? Beyond stablecoin issuance, Agora plans to offer custody services for digital assets, compliance infrastructure for other fintech firms, and blockchain-based settlement tools. These services would all operate under the same federal trust charter, creating a unified regulatory framework. This post Agora Stablecoin Charter: Bold OCC Application Could Reshape Crypto Banking first appeared on BitcoinWorld .

30 Apr 2026, 15:09

Wasabi Protocol exploit tied to admin key breach, $5M+ drained across chains

Wasabi Protocol has halted activity after a reported $5M+ exploit, with security firms linking the attack to an admin key compromise.

30 Apr 2026, 15:05

Nexo Zero-Interest Loans Now Accept SOL and XRP as Collateral: A Game-Changer for Crypto Borrowers

BitcoinWorld Nexo Zero-Interest Loans Now Accept SOL and XRP as Collateral: A Game-Changer for Crypto Borrowers Nexo, a leading crypto lender, has expanded its zero-interest loan offerings by adding Solana (SOL) and XRP as collateral. This move strengthens the company’s Zero-Interest Credit (ZiC) line, allowing users to borrow stablecoins without paying annual interest. The product also eliminates forced liquidations, a common risk in traditional crypto lending. Borrowers must maintain a lower loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 30%, compared to standard loans. This development signals a shift in how crypto-backed credit works, offering more flexibility and security for users. Nexo Zero-Interest Loans: A Closer Look at the ZiC Product The ZiC line from Nexo provides a unique borrowing experience. Users can deposit crypto assets as collateral and receive stablecoins in return. The key feature is the 0% annual interest rate, which applies as long as the loan remains within the required LTV ratio. Nexo captures any excess profits if the collateral’s value appreciates beyond a certain threshold. This model aligns the interests of both the lender and the borrower. It also reduces the stress of managing volatile collateral values. For example, if a user deposits SOL worth $10,000, they can borrow up to $3,000 in stablecoins. If SOL’s price rises to $15,000, Nexo shares the profit after the loan is repaid. This structure encourages long-term holding while providing liquidity. The product requires a 30% LTV ratio, which is lower than Nexo’s standard loan offerings. This lower ratio acts as a buffer against market volatility, reducing the risk of margin calls. SOL and XRP Collateral: What It Means for Borrowers Adding SOL and XRP expands the collateral options for Nexo’s zero-interest loans. Previously, the ZiC line supported only a limited set of assets. Now, holders of Solana and XRP can access liquidity without selling their tokens. This is particularly valuable for investors who believe in the long-term potential of these assets. They can use their holdings to cover expenses or reinvest without triggering a taxable event. Solana, known for its high-speed blockchain, has a large and active community. XRP, with its focus on cross-border payments, also has a strong user base. By accepting these tokens, Nexo taps into these communities, potentially increasing its user base. The decision also reflects growing institutional interest in these assets. According to market data, Solana and XRP are among the top cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, making them attractive for lending platforms. Comparison of ZiC Loans vs. Standard Nexo Loans To understand the value of the ZiC product, compare it with Nexo’s standard loan offerings. The table below highlights key differences: Feature ZiC Line Standard Loan Annual Interest Rate 0% 6.9% – 13.9% Loan-to-Value Ratio 30% 50% Forced Liquidation No Yes Profit Sharing Yes (if collateral appreciates) No Collateral Options SOL, XRP, and others Multiple assets This comparison shows that the ZiC line offers a trade-off: lower borrowing capacity in exchange for zero interest and no liquidation risk. It suits conservative borrowers who want to avoid margin calls. Market Impact and Industry Context The announcement comes at a time when the crypto lending market is evolving. After the collapse of several centralized lenders in 2022, platforms like Nexo are focusing on transparency and risk management. The ZiC product addresses two major pain points for borrowers: high interest rates and forced liquidations. By offering zero-interest loans, Nexo differentiates itself from competitors like BlockFi or Celsius, which have higher rates. Industry experts see this as a positive development. “Nexo’s zero-interest loans provide a safety net for long-term holders,” says a crypto analyst. “It allows them to access liquidity without selling their assets during a downturn.” This approach aligns with the broader trend of decentralized finance (DeFi) offering more flexible borrowing options. However, the 30% LTV ratio means borrowers need to deposit more collateral, which could limit adoption among smaller investors. Timeline of Nexo’s Lending Innovations 2018: Nexo launches its first crypto-backed loan product with a 50% LTV ratio. 2020: The company introduces instant credit lines for multiple cryptocurrencies. 2022: Nexo launches the ZiC line with zero-interest rates for select assets. 2025: SOL and XRP are added as collateral for ZiC loans, expanding access. This timeline shows Nexo’s commitment to innovation in the lending space. Each step has aimed to reduce barriers for borrowers while maintaining risk controls. How the ZiC Product Works: A Step-by-Step Guide To use the ZiC line, borrowers must follow a straightforward process. First, they create a Nexo account and complete identity verification. Next, they deposit SOL or XRP into their Nexo wallet. The platform then calculates the borrowing limit based on the 30% LTV ratio. For instance, a deposit of 100 SOL at $20 each allows borrowing up to $600 in stablecoins. Once the loan is issued, borrowers can withdraw stablecoins or use them within the Nexo ecosystem. The loan has no fixed repayment schedule, but interest accrues if the LTV ratio exceeds 30%. If the collateral’s value drops, Nexo does not liquidate the position. Instead, it captures any upside if the value recovers. This mechanism protects borrowers from sudden market crashes. Risks and Considerations for Borrowers While the ZiC product offers benefits, it also carries risks. The main risk is the opportunity cost of using collateral. If the price of SOL or XRP rises significantly, borrowers may miss out on gains because Nexo shares the profit. Additionally, the 30% LTV ratio limits borrowing capacity, which may not suit those needing larger loans. Borrowers should also consider the tax implications of using crypto as collateral, as it may be treated as a disposal in some jurisdictions. Conclusion Nexo’s addition of SOL and XRP as collateral for zero-interest loans marks a significant step in crypto lending. The ZiC product offers a unique combination of zero interest, no forced liquidations, and profit sharing. This appeals to long-term holders who want liquidity without selling their assets. However, the lower LTV ratio and profit-sharing model may not suit all borrowers. As the crypto lending market matures, products like Nexo’s ZiC line could become standard. Borrowers should carefully evaluate their needs before using such services. FAQs Q1: What is the Nexo ZiC line? The ZiC line is a zero-interest credit product from Nexo. It allows users to borrow stablecoins using crypto collateral without paying annual interest. Nexo shares in any profit if the collateral appreciates. Q2: Which cryptocurrencies are accepted as collateral for ZiC loans? As of 2025, Nexo accepts SOL and XRP as collateral for ZiC loans, along with other select assets. The list may expand over time. Q3: What is the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for ZiC loans? The LTV ratio for ZiC loans is 30%. This means borrowers can borrow up to 30% of their collateral’s value. This is lower than Nexo’s standard loan ratio of 50%. Q4: Can I lose my collateral with a ZiC loan? No, Nexo does not force liquidations on ZiC loans. If the collateral’s value drops, the loan remains active. However, Nexo captures any upside if the value recovers. Q5: How do I repay a ZiC loan? Borrowers can repay the loan at any time without penalties. Repayment is made in stablecoins or other supported assets. The loan has no fixed maturity date. Q6: Is the ZiC product available globally? Nexo’s ZiC line is available in most countries, but some jurisdictions may have restrictions. Users should check Nexo’s terms for their specific region. This post Nexo Zero-Interest Loans Now Accept SOL and XRP as Collateral: A Game-Changer for Crypto Borrowers first appeared on BitcoinWorld .