Coin Academy https://thecoinacademy.co/ Discover the crypto universe in depth Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:38:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://thecoinacademy.co/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/cropped-favicon-1-80x80.png Coin Academy https://thecoinacademy.co/ 32 32 Child Rugs Memecoin: A Phenomenon Sparking a Surge in Value https://thecoinacademy.co/news/child-rugs-memecoin-explosive-value-surge/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=child-rugs-memecoin-explosive-value-surge Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:37:58 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/child-rugs-memecoin-explosive-value-surge/ Child Rugs Memecoin, Witnessing Explosive Surge in Value A child launched a Solana-based memecoin on the Pump.fun platform…

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Child Rugs Memecoin, Witnessing Explosive Surge in Value

A child launched a Solana-based memecoin on the Pump.fun platform on Wednesday morning, capturing the attention of a captivated audience. By quickly selling all of his tokens, he made a profit of nearly $30,000. However, the events that followed took an unexpected turn, as the degenerate part of the crypto community took hold of the project, causing the token’s market capitalization to skyrocket to over $100 million.

Child Rugs Memecoin: The Phenomenon of the Day

This initially unpretentious memecoin’s value soared after influential members of the crypto community took over its technical management, a practice known as ‘CTO’d’ in the cryptocurrency world. The young creator missed out on a theoretical fortune of several million dollars by selling too early.

Potential Millions vs. Realized Thousands

According to data from Pump.fun and the Solscan blockchain explorer, the child liquidated all his positions during the initial surge of the token. The amount he received from this sale was $29,500, an impressive sum for someone his age but minuscule compared to what his holdings could have been worth. A few hours later, his initial investment could have reached over $4 million.

Ironically, the excitement surrounding the token appears to have been fueled by the story itself: the tale of a child missing out on a golden opportunity spread throughout the crypto sphere, attracting speculators and amplifying the bubble. Without this twist of events, such a valuation would likely have been improbable.

Community Chaos: Doxxing and New Projects

In a darker turn, some members of the crypto community ‘doxxed’ individuals they believed to be close to the young creator. These revelations led to the launch of new memecoins on Pump.fun, all connected to this story. Undeterred, the child himself created two other tokens, once again making five-figure profits before quickly exiting the projects.

These maneuvers reflect a recurring phenomenon in the memecoin universe: unbridled speculation, where viral narratives shape valuations and become the actual fundamentals of projects.

The Trump Effect and the Memecoin Frenzy

The recent election of Donald Trump, perceived as cryptocurrency-friendly, has reignited interest in memecoins. Projects like Dogwifhat and Pepe surged after being listed on Coinbase, while initiatives like ‘memefunds’ attract attention. The example of the Just a Chill Guy (CHILLGUY) token illustrates this frenzy: launched a few days ago, it reached a record market capitalization of $450 million and gained a massive presence on numerous social media platforms.

These figures demonstrate the unpredictability of the memecoin world, driven by collective impulses and captivating narratives. For the child at the center of this story, the adventure could have turned into a financial fairy tale. But it remains a harsh reminder: in cryptocurrencies, timing is everything.

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Gary Wang Escapes Prison with Cooperation in FTX Case https://thecoinacademy.co/news/gary-wang-avoids-prison-after-pleading-guilty-in-ftx-case/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gary-wang-avoids-prison-after-pleading-guilty-in-ftx-case Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:37:56 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/gary-wang-avoids-prison-after-pleading-guilty-in-ftx-case/ Gary Wang Avoids Prison After Pleading Guilty in FTX Case Gary Wang, former CTO of FTX and close…

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Gary Wang Avoids Prison After Pleading Guilty in FTX Case

Gary Wang, former CTO of FTX and close associate of Sam Bankman-Fried, has managed to avoid a prison sentence despite his central role in the collapse of the platform. During his sentencing hearing, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan emphasized the significance of Wang’s immediate cooperation with prosecutors following the downfall of FTX in 2021. This exemplary behavior was deemed ‘deserving of a world of merit’ by the magistrate, justifying a pivotal decision in this complex case.

A Non-Custodial Sentence: An Exceptional Case

Wang pleaded guilty in December 2022 to four charges: electronic fraud, conspiracy to commit electronic fraud, conspiracy to commit securities fraud, and conspiracy to commit commodity fraud. Despite the gravity of the allegations, his assistance has shed light on fraudulent practices within FTX. As a reward, he has avoided prison, a rare decision in cases of this magnitude.

This leniency starkly contrasts with the sentences handed down to other figures involved in the FTX case. Caroline Ellison, former CEO of Alameda Research and ex-girlfriend of Bankman-Fried, was sentenced to two years in prison in September. Ryan Salame, another FTX executive, received the heaviest sentence (excluding SBF), with seven and a half years in prison for campaign finance fraud.

A Mea Culpa in Court

Prior to the announcement of his verdict, Gary Wang publicly expressed remorse, stating that he was ‘deeply sorry’ for his role in the FTX orchestrated fraud. Wang, as the developer of the notorious backdoor that facilitated the illegal transfer of funds from FTX clients to Alameda Trading, acknowledged, ‘There are so many things I could have done differently.’ These words reflect the magnitude of the betrayal felt by investors and employees whose hopes were shattered by the company’s dubious practices.

A Conclusion for FTX Executives

With this conviction, Gary Wang becomes the last FTX executive to receive judgment, marking the end of a series of trials that have shaken the cryptocurrency ecosystem. The FTX case not only exposed deep flaws in the company’s internal controls but also highlighted the importance of insider cooperation in dismantling fraudulent networks. While Wang regains his freedom, the weight of his role in one of the largest frauds in cryptocurrency history remains undeniable.

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MicroStrategy Emerges as a Leading Public Company Driven by Bitcoin https://thecoinacademy.co/news/microstrategy-emerges-as-a-leading-public-company-driven-by-bitcoin/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=microstrategy-emerges-as-a-leading-public-company-driven-by-bitcoin Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:48:00 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/microstrategy-emerges-as-a-leading-public-company-driven-by-bitcoin/ MicroStrategy has become the 97th largest public company in America, with a market capitalization close to $100 billion,…

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MicroStrategy has become the 97th largest public company in America, with a market capitalization close to $100 billion, following a 530% increase over the year.

The company holds 331,200 bitcoins, worth over $30 billion, which accounts for one-third of its market value.

MicroStrategy announced that it will increase its bond offering from $1.75 billion to $2.6 billion, dedicated to the massive purchase of Bitcoin.

L’envolée historique de MicroStrategy portée par Bitcoin

MicroStrategy, now the 97th largest public company in America by market capitalization, continues its meteoric rise. The company’s market cap is approaching $100 billion, supported by a more than 500% increase in its stock price since the beginning of the year. This momentum reflects a direct synergy with Bitcoin reaching new highs above $94,000 and a bold investment strategy focused on massive BTC acquisition.

Une dynamique boursière inédite

The shares of MicroStrategy (MSTR) gained 12% on Tuesday, reaching a new peak of $400 per share before adding 6.6% on Wednesday in pre-market trading. This puts the company among the big winners of the year, with an annual performance exceeding 528%. As Bitcoin continues to break records, the value of MSTR shares evolves in parallel, reinforcing the image of a company closely linked to the digital asset revolution.

MicroStrategy augmente sa vente d’obligations de $1,75 milliard à 2,6 milliards

The company recently increased its convertible debt offering from $1.75 billion to $2.6 billion. This interest-free placement marks a new milestone in MicroStrategy’s strategy, as it uses these funds exclusively for the purchase of bitcoins. This sixth convertible bond, the largest in the company’s history, illustrates its radical commitment to cryptocurrency. The maturities of these bonds range from 2027 to 2032, consolidating MicroStrategy’s position as a central player in the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Des chiffres impressionnants

As of November 18th, MicroStrategy holds 331,200 bitcoins, valued at over $30 billion at current prices. These massive reserves account for nearly one-third of its market capitalization, illustrating a valuation closely correlated with the performance of the leading crypto. This unconventional approach has turned the company into an indirect investment vehicle in Bitcoin, attracting the attention of both traditional and crypto investors.

Un pari risqué mais payant

MicroStrategy’s strategy, under the leadership of its CEO Michael Saylor, is based on a bold vision: making Bitcoin the backbone of its financial model. This aggressive positioning in a still volatile market is not without risks, but it has allowed the company to stand out among the giants of the American stock market. By entering the top 100 public companies, MicroStrategy has become a key player in the digital transformation, redefining the boundaries of traditional finance.

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Bitcoin ETF Options IBIT Achieve Record Start with $2 Billion Exposure https://thecoinacademy.co/news/bitcoin-etf-options-ibit-achieve-record-start-with-2-billion-exposure/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bitcoin-etf-options-ibit-achieve-record-start-with-2-billion-exposure Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:27:56 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/bitcoin-etf-options-ibit-achieve-record-start-with-2-billion-exposure/ Bitcoin ETF Options IBIT Achieve Record Start with $2 Billion Exposure Bitcoin ETF options, known as IBIT, recorded…

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Bitcoin ETF Options IBIT Achieve Record Start with $2 Billion Exposure

Bitcoin ETF options, known as IBIT, recorded nearly $2 billion in notional exposure on their first day of trading. With 354,000 contracts exchanged, including 289,000 calls and 65,000 puts, this volume is considered exceptional for a newly launched product. The overrepresentation of calls, with a ratio of 4.4:1, may have contributed to Bitcoin’s new all-time high reached Tuesday evening in the United States.

This launch comes amid a profound transformation in the Bitcoin market. IBIT options provide a new entry point for institutional investors, enabling them to develop complex risk management and investment strategies.

The IBIT options introduce advanced trading tools that could reshape the Bitcoin market structure. By allowing professional investors to buy or sell options without holding the underlying asset, they promote greater liquidity and diversify potential strategies. These tools are particularly appealing to institutions that have, until now, avoided unregulated offshore platforms.

Strategies such as options overwriting, which generate passive income through premiums collected, are popular in stable or slightly bearish markets. Other speculative players can leverage price fluctuations without directly owning Bitcoin, simplifying market access.

In the short term, this dynamic could increase demand for call options, creating a leverage effect known as a gamma squeeze, where massive purchases of calls further amplify price hikes.

Sophisticated Trading Opportunities with Bitcoin Options

Options, whether calls or puts, are derivative instruments that offer unique flexibility. A call allows the purchase of an asset at a given price before an expiration date, ideal for betting on a price increase. Conversely, a put offers the right to sell an asset, protecting against a decrease in its value.

These instruments introduce unprecedented sophistication for Bitcoin investors. Institutions can now hedge their bullish exposures with puts or maximize returns by selling calls, a strategy inaccessible in unregulated markets. These tools also provide insights into market expectations: options data often reveals traders’ anticipations, influencing the behaviors of other participants.

A Turning Point for Institutional Bitcoin

The introduction of IBIT options marks a significant step for institutional adoption of Bitcoin. In September, the US SEC approved these derivatives for several Bitcoin spot ETFs, signaling a regulatory turning point for cryptocurrencies. Investors now have a wider range of strategies to access this digital asset, further integrating it into traditional portfolios.

With such strong interest right from the start, IBIT options herald a new era for Bitcoin. By attracting institutional capital while expanding trading possibilities, they could play a key role in the next phase of maturity for the cryptocurrency market. Bitcoin ETF options from Grayscale, GBTC, and BTC, also begin today.

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ECB Warns of Debt Crisis in the Eurozone https://thecoinacademy.co/news/ecb-warns-of-debt-crisis-eurozone/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ecb-warns-of-debt-crisis-eurozone Wed, 20 Nov 2024 13:48:03 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/ecb-warns-of-debt-crisis-eurozone/ The ECB warns of a debt crisis if growth is not stimulated and deficits are controlled, with a…

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The ECB warns of a debt crisis if growth is not stimulated and deficits are controlled, with a particular focus on Italy, Spain, and now France.

Borrowing costs are rising for sovereign debts, making refinancing more expensive. Interest payments could exceed 4% of GDP in Franceand 6% in Italy by 2034.

A downward revision of growth forecasts (1.3% in 2025) and the concentration of risks in financial markets exacerbate economic and political tensions in the Eurozone.

Troubling signals of a debt crisis in Europe issued by the ECB

In its latest Financial Stability Report, released on Wednesday, the European Central Bank (ECB) sounded the alarm: the Eurozone could be faced with a new debt crisis if measures are not taken promptly to stimulate growth, reduce public debt, and dissipate political uncertainties. The warning is particularly focused on the sustainability of sovereign debts, an issue that the institution finds concerning given the high levels of debt and budget deficits.

The Vice-President of the ECB, Luis de Guindos, highlighted the historical weakness of some member states in complying with the European Union’s fiscal rules. These weaknesses, combined with factors such as low productivity and bleak economic prospects, increase the risk of tensions in financial markets.

Italy and Spain under pressure, France in the crosshairs

While borrowing costs for countries like Italy and Spain remain below the heights reached during the previous decade’s debt crisis, investor concerns are now shifting towards other major economies, such as France. In October, the spread between French 10-year bond yields and those of Germany — a key market sentiment indicator — reached levels seen before the French parliamentary elections last summer.

According to De Guindos, markets are increasingly paying attention to fiscal risks. Financing costs for countries with a debt-to-GDP ratio exceeding 100% have increased particularly during recent episodes of volatility, making these economies even more vulnerable to shocks.

Difficult debts to refinance in a high interest rate environment

The ECB’s analysis also highlights a structural challenge: maturing sovereign debts must be refinanced at much higher interest rates than before. For example, France’s interest payments could exceed 4% of GDP by 2034, while Italy’s would approach 6%, according to European estimates. Such developments would complicate the funding of strategic investments, particularly in defense and the ecological transition.

These financial difficulties are accompanied by a downward revision of growth forecasts. The European Commission now anticipates only 1.3% growth in 2025 for the Eurozone, widening the economic gap with the United States.

Vulnerable financial markets

In addition to public debts, the ECB points out a concentration of risks in financial markets, exacerbated by high valuations and increased volatility. Recent corrections have not dispelled concerns about a possible speculative bubble fueled by artificial intelligence or abrupt adjustments in bond and equity markets.

In a scenario of economic slowdown, the balance sheets of banks and investment funds could be severely impacted. With high interest rates, European companies and consumers are already struggling to meet their obligations, increasing the risk of losses in the commercial real estate sector, which is particularly exposed.

A decade at risk for the Eurozone

The ECB warns that the dual burden of low growth and high public debt could hinder European governments’ ability to address the challenges of the 21st century on a lasting basis. The lessons from the previous crisis, marked by the historic intervention of Mario Draghi, seem to be fading as the Eurozone enters a period of increased fragility. The need for concerted action between fiscal and monetary policies appears more critical than ever before.

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Russian Government Proposes 15% Crypto Tax https://thecoinacademy.co/news/russian-government-proposes-15-percent-crypto-tax/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=russian-government-proposes-15-percent-crypto-tax Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:07:57 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/russian-government-proposes-15-percent-crypto-tax/ The Russian Government to Introduce Crypto Tax of up to 15% The Russian government plans to tax income…

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The Russian Government to Introduce Crypto Tax of up to 15%

The Russian government plans to tax income from cryptocurrency mining and transactions at a rate of up to 15%, classifying cryptocurrencies as taxable assets.

Miners will be able to deduct their operational expenses from their taxable income, while transactions will be exempt from VAT to encourage a favorable business environment.

The new regulations will include reporting obligations for mining operators to enhance tax compliance and limit evasion.

Transactions in digital currency will not be subject to value-added tax. Income from digital currency transactions will be accounted for in the same tax base as income from securities transactions. Thus, the maximum personal income tax rate for cryptocurrency taxation will not exceed 15%.

The 15% Crypto Tax Proposal in Russia

The Russian government has recently approved amendments to a bill aimed at taxing income from crypto transactions and mining. According to Interfax news agency, citing the Russian Ministry of Finance, these amendments will classify income generated from crypto activities as taxable assets. This marks a significant evolution in the regulation of digital assets in Russia, reflecting a desire to firmly regulate a previously relatively unrestricted sector.

Classification and Taxation of Mining Income

The new provisions introduce the classification of cryptocurrencies as property, resulting in the taxation of mining income based on their market value at the time of receipt. This approach could enhance transparency in financial flows related to mining activities, while allowing miners to deduct their operational expenses from their taxable income. Such a measure aims to balance the interests of businesses and the state, providing miners with flexibility to maintain profitability while ensuring a tax contribution to the national budget.

VAT Exemption and Transaction Taxation

The bill also provides for an exemption from value-added tax (VAT) for crypto transactions, although income generated from trading will be subject to the same tax rates as those applied to securities transactions. Thus, the maximum personal income tax rate could reach 15%. This differential tax policy seems to seek a more favorable business environment for cryptocurrency exchanges while regulating gains from this activity.

Enhanced Control and Compliance

To ensure the effective implementation of these new regulations, mining operators will be required to report information about individuals using their infrastructure. This obligation aims to counter tax evasion and limit illicit practices by precisely identifying participants in the mining ecosystem.

In October, the Russian government had already taken measures to limit the energy consumption of unregistered miners, setting a monthly limit of 6,000 kilowatt-hours.

Crypto in Russia: A Legislative Framework Under Construction since 2020

The path towards cryptocurrency taxation legislation in Russia is not new. The first bill was introduced in December 2020, with a reading adopted in 2021. Since then, the evolving discussions highlight the complexity of integrating cryptocurrencies into the existing legal framework while adapting to the realities of a rapidly expanding market.

The Ministry of Finance justifies these new taxes by the need to create a framework that, while imposing taxes on mining and transactions income, maintains the attractiveness of the sector. This bill reflects a compromise between strict regulation and the competitiveness of crypto companies operating in Russia.

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BlackRock Set to Launch Options on Bitcoin ETF Leading the Way Towards a New Era in Financial Markets https://thecoinacademy.co/news/blackrock-options-bitcoin-etf-us/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=blackrock-options-bitcoin-etf-us Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:57:57 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/blackrock-options-bitcoin-etf-us/ BlackRock to Launch First Options on its Bitcoin Spot ETF (IBIT), Marking a Crucial Milestone for the US…

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BlackRock to Launch First Options on its Bitcoin Spot ETF (IBIT), Marking a Crucial Milestone for the US Crypto Derivatives Market

The imminent introduction of options on Bitcoin ETFs in the United States may transform the cryptocurrency investment landscape.

“Doors are opening for the evolution of Bitcoin in financial markets.” – Joe Consorti, Head of Growth at Theya

This launch could trigger a wave of interest from institutional and retail investors alike, enticed by the opportunity for greater liquidity and new risk management tools.

A Decisive First Step with BlackRock

The first step in this initiative will be led by the BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), whose options launch has been confirmed by the Options Clearing Corporation (OCC). Alison Hennessy, Head of ETP Listings at Nasdaq, stated that the platform plans to begin listing and trading options on Bitcoin ETFs as early as this Tuesday. This event marks the start of a new chapter in price dynamics and digital asset volatility.

What is an Option on a Bitcoin Spot ETF?

Options on Bitcoin spot ETFs allow investors to speculate or hedge by buying or selling ETF shares at predetermined prices. This type of financial instrument is crucial for institutional players as it offers sophisticated tools for price discovery and risk management. These options are the cornerstone of capital markets, essential for creating market depth and encouraging widespread adoption.

An Underdeveloped Derivatives Market

The current Bitcoin derivatives market falls far short of its potential. While Bitcoin’s market capitalization approaches $1.8 trillion, listed derivatives represent only a fraction of that amount. In contrast, in traditional markets, derivatives often outweigh the value of their underlying assets by 10 to 20 times. This underrepresentation hinders the maturation of the crypto market, despite significant institutional demand for hedging and diversifying products.

The Opening of the US Market

A significant portion of Bitcoin derivatives is currently traded outside of the United States, on offshore or over-the-counter (OTC) platforms like Deribit, where open interest reaches approximately $31 billion. However, US investors were previously excluded from this market due to regulatory restrictions. The US stock market accounts for 44% of the global market’s $109 trillion, highlighting the magnitude of opportunities that the introduction of options on ETFs could unlock.

Increased Investor Participation

The introduction of these products in the United States will allow institutional and retail investors to participate more extensively, making Bitcoin derivative products more accessible. This opening could transform the structure of the Bitcoin market, following in the footsteps of stocks and commodities, where derivatives significantly outweigh spot markets.

Firms like QCP Capital have also predicted a significant increase in Bitcoin ETF liquidity after the approval of options by the SEC on major US exchanges like the NYSE and CBOE. The introduction of these options to the US market could be an impressive turning point.

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Ukraine Strikes Russian Arsenal with US Missiles, Marking a Strategic Turning Point https://thecoinacademy.co/news/ukraine-strikes-russian-arsenal/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ukraine-strikes-russian-arsenal Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:37:58 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/ukraine-strikes-russian-arsenal/ L’Ukraine Strikes Russian Arsenal with US Missiles for the First Time Ukraine has reached a decisive milestone in…

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L’Ukraine Strikes Russian Arsenal with US Missiles for the First Time

Ukraine has reached a decisive milestone in its war against Russia by striking a military target inside Russian territory with Atacms missiles provided by the United States. This attack comes shortly after the Biden administration lifted restrictions on the use of these weapons, marking a major shift in US policy. According to sources close to the matter, the attack targeted a significant weapons arsenal near Karachev in the Russian region of Bryansk, over 115 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.

‘Without the Americans, it is impossible to use these high-tech missiles.’ – Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister

The missiles, known for their precision and range, enabled Kyiv to strike an ammunition depot located 190 kilometers from the front line in the neighboring Kursk region. This region is currently the scene of a Russian offensive aimed at pushing back Ukrainian troops who have occupied approximately 600 square kilometers since their breakthrough in August. The date of this strike coincides with the thousandth day of the large-scale Russian invasion, emphasizing Ukraine’s determination to continue its operations despite the risks of escalation.

A Cautious Response From Washington

Joe Biden’s decision to lift restrictions on the use of Atacms inside Russia illustrates a significant strategic shift. This decision comes at a crucial time as President-elect Donald Trump is set to resume office in January and has promised to quickly end the war without specifying his strategy details.

Sources indicate that Biden has authorized limited use of Atacms to support targeted operations in Russia, particularly in the Kursk region where Russian forces have amassed approximately 50,000 soldiers, reinforced by 10,000 North Koreans equipped with heavy artillery and rocket systems provided by Pyongyang.

S&P 500 and Bitcoin: Impact on Markets

Facing escalating tensions between the United States and Russia, American stock markets have shown signs of fragility. S&P 500 futures contracts pointed to a 0.5% opening decline on Tuesday, erasing some of the gains made in the previous session. This nervousness reflects the increasing uncertainty about the potential repercussions of an expanded conflict involving major powers.

However, the crypto market seems relatively unaffected by the rising tensions. Bitcoin, in particular, is trading around $91,500 after reaching highs of $92,000, close to its record levels, and up 1.5% in the past 24 hours. This resilience may indicate that investors are finally considering digital assets as a hedge against geopolitical uncertainties.

Reactions on the Ground and Media Responses

The Russian Ministry of Defense has confirmed the attack while stating that its air defense systems intercepted five out of the six Atacms missiles above the Bryansk region. Videos distributed on Telegram show military installations on fire and smoke trails in the sky, enhancing the visual and symbolic impact of the attack.

Although the Ukrainian General Staff has not explicitly confirmed the use of Atacms, it has claimed responsibility for the strikes on this Russian arsenal, emphasizing the importance of these attacks in slowing down Russian aggression and hindering its logistical capabilities.

Towards Escalation or a Turning Point?

The attack with Atacms marks a strategic turning point in the conflict, raising questions about the next steps in this protracted war. While the Russian response remains uncertain, the lifting of American restrictions and Kyiv’s increased commitment to destroying critical infrastructure could alter the balance of forces. Europe and the rest of the world will closely monitor the repercussions of this new phase of the conflict while scrutinizing financial markets to assess the scope of this latest act in the complex theater of international relations.

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Innovation for Institutional Investors: Tapping into Real Assets in DeFi https://thecoinacademy.co/news/innovation-institutional-investors-tapping-real-assets-defi/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=innovation-institutional-investors-tapping-real-assets-defi Tue, 19 Nov 2024 13:57:58 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/innovation-institutional-investors-tapping-real-assets-defi/ Securitize and Elixir have introduced the sToken, a new way for holders of tokenized real assets, such as…

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Securitize and Elixir have introduced the sToken, a new way for holders of tokenized real assets, such as the BlackRock BUIDL fund, to generate returns while using them in DeFi through the deUSD stablecoin. This initiative enhances liquidity and composability of real-world assets (RWA), providing a solution to the legal and technical barriers that hinder their widespread adoption in decentralized finance.

Lancement du sToken: A Major Innovation for Institutional Investors

Tokenization firm Securitize is taking another step towards integrating traditional finance with digital assets by introducing the sToken. Developed in collaboration with the Elixir synthetic dollars project, this innovative token utilizes Ethereum’s ERC-4626 standard, which enables the creation of collective vaults that generate returns. For institutional investors, this opens the door to more flexible use of tokenized real assets while continuing to earn interest.

Pour la toute première fois, les détenteurs d’actifs réels tokenisés peuvent utiliser nativement leurs actifs on-chain dans la DeFi, en accédant à une liquidité unifiée via deUSD.
– Philip Forte, fondateur d’Elixir

BUIDL: Leading the deUSD RWA Asset Program

The first asset to benefit from this architecture is BUIDL, the BlackRock digital liquidity fund backed by US Treasuries. Through the deUSD RWA Institutional Program, BUIDL holders can convert their shares into deUSD, the decentralized stablecoin from Elixir, while continuing to generate returns. This advancement offers a new dimension to traditional assets, allowing them to be integrated into the DeFi ecosystem without compromising profitability.

Towards Wider Adoption of Real-World Assets (RWA)

Tokenization is increasingly seen as the future of asset management, facilitating the circulation and use of value on a global scale. Giants like BlackRock, KKR, UBS, and HSBC are already exploring the possibilities offered by blockchain to transform how assets are issued and traded. Despite these advantages, the widespread adoption of RWAs is limited by legal and technical obstacles such as regulatory restrictions on transferability and low integration into DeFi.

Securitize and Elixir believe that the growth of Total Value Locked (TVL) for RWAs depends on solutions that combine regulatory-compliant liquidity with asset composability. With the sToken, Securitize takes another step towards this vision, allowing funds like BUIDL to be used more actively while respecting legal constraints.

Philip Forte, CEO of Elixir, highlights that for the first time, holders of tokenized real assets can use them directly in DeFi through deUSD. This ability to mobilize capital in the blockchain universe without compromising compliance is a leap forward for the industry. Forte emphasizes the potential of deUSD to overcome legal limitations that might hinder users like those of BUIDL.

To ensure this seamless integration, Elixir will issue a derivative of BUIDL called sBUIDL, which will be held by Securitize users. This enhances the project’s liquidity while expanding the reach of deUSD across multiple blockchains, solidifying its position in the market.

Strategic Collaboration and Future Implications

This development is part of the ongoing collaboration efforts between Securitize, BlackRock, and Circle. In October, these partners implemented a system that allows BUIDL holders to sell their shares to Circle in exchange for USDC and transfer BUIDL to the blockchain through Circle’s smart contracts. These initiatives exemplify a broader trend where traditional finance and blockchain innovation converge to offer more dynamic and accessible solutions.

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TMTG, Trump’s Company, in Talks to Acquire Crypto Exchange Bakkt https://thecoinacademy.co/news/trump-company-acquiring-crypto-exchange/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=trump-company-acquiring-crypto-exchange Mon, 18 Nov 2024 20:47:58 +0000 https://thecoinacademy.co/news/trump-company-acquiring-crypto-exchange/ TMTG, Donald Trump’s Company, in Advanced Talks to Acquire Crypto Exchange Bakkt TMTG, the Trump Media and Technology…

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TMTG, Donald Trump’s Company, in Advanced Talks to Acquire Crypto Exchange Bakkt

TMTG, the Trump Media and Technology Group, which owns the Truth Social platform, is in advanced discussions to acquire Bakkt, a cryptocurrency trading platform owned by Intercontinental Exchange (ICE). This move marks a strategic shift for the group, aiming to expand its influence beyond social media and enter the booming digital asset sector.

TMTG, with a market valuation of $6 billion despite modest revenues of $2.6 million this year, is considering an acquisition through a stock exchange. Bakkt, on the other hand, has a market capitalization just over $150 million but has struggled to achieve profitability since its launch.

Donald Trump’s Increased Interest in Cryptocurrencies

Donald Trump’s interest in cryptocurrencies is not new. The former president recently supported a crypto project led by his partners at World Liberty Financial, signaling a growing appetite for this domain. Investors anticipate crypto-friendly policies under his future administration, resulting in over a 30% surge in Bitcoin’s price since the announcement of his electoral victory.

Bakkt, founded by ICE, remains a prominent player with a prestigious legacy despite persistent financial challenges. It initially garnered hope for services such as cryptocurrency custody on behalf of third parties, although this activity has been subpar, recording operating losses of $27,000 for revenues of only $328,000 in the third quarter.

Restructuring Needed for Bakkt

The acquisition discussions do not involve Bakkt’s cryptocurrency custody branch, which is expected to be shut down, according to sources familiar with the matter. This decision highlights TMTG’s focus on the most promising segments of Bakkt’s business, particularly the development of a trading platform for institutional investors. Bakkt recently avoided delisting from the New York Stock Exchange through a reverse stock split (1 for 25), although its stock remains fragile.

Implications for TMTG and the Crypto Industry: Trump Meets Coinbase CEO

If this acquisition materializes, it would strengthen Trump’s TMTG position in the crypto world at a critical moment as financial markets shift towards more integrated digital assets. The deal would provide the company with much-needed diversification, especially given the limitations of Truth Social, which remains a modest player with only 646,000 daily visits compared to Elon Musk’s X Network’s 155 million.

This acquisition could also solidify Donald Trump’s fortune, as his stake in TMTG represents over half of his estimated $5.7 billion wealth, according to Bloomberg. It would also allow Trump to fully integrate into the crypto ecosystem since expressing his support.

President-elect Donald Trump will meet privately with Coinbase CEO, Brian Armstrong, on Monday to discuss staffing his second administration, according to sources from the WSJ. The discussions are expected to center around personnel appointments. The meeting between Trump and Armstrong would be the first since Election Day and comes as Trump continues to fill out his cabinet and other key positions of responsibility.

A Forward-Looking Vision

As Trump prepares for his new presidency, this deal underscores his desire to capitalize on the growing potential of digital assets. With the support of influential allies like Kelly Loeffler, co-chair of his inaugural committee and former Bakkt executive, TMTG could turn this gamble into a long-term winning strategy. Acquiring Bakkt would not only be a diversification but also a strong signal of a proactive approach towards innovation and economic integration of financial technologies.

The article TMTG, Trump’s Company, in Talks to Acquire Crypto Exchange Bakkt appeared first on Coin Academy.

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