Cboe Global Markets, a major financial markets player, has announced the unprecedented launch of options linked to Bitcoin Spot ETFs on Monday, December 2. This marks a new milestone in integrating digital assets into traditional financial products.

These options will be tied to the Cboe Bitcoin US ETF index, designed to reflect the performances of Bitcoin ETFs listed on US exchanges. With this launch, Cboe offers investors an indirect alternative to access the Bitcoin market without requiring direct exposure to the cryptocurrency.

Options Tailored to Investor Needs

Cboe’s indexed options will be cash-settled, allowing positions to be settled in cash upon expiration, without the complexity of physically delivering Bitcoin ETFs. This structure reduces the technical barriers often associated with cryptocurrency-related products. In addition, these options will adopt a European-style exercise mechanism, where positions can only be exercised on their expiration date, further simplifying their management.

Rob Hocking, Head of Product Innovation at Cboe, highlighted the unique advantages of these options:

Our indexed options offer a unique value proposition that is likely to appeal to both institutional investors and retail traders. These products allow investors to leverage Bitcoin’s fluctuations or protect themselves from them, without directly holding the underlying asset.

To cater to different investor profiles, Cboe will also introduce a mini version called Cboe Mini Bitcoin US ETF Index options (MBTX). With a notional value equivalent to one-tenth of standard options, these mini-options aim to attract a wider audience, particularly retail traders.

A Strategic Diversification into Digital Assets

This launch is part of Cboe’s broader strategy to expand its portfolio of digital asset derivatives. The company already offers cash-settled futures contracts on Bitcoin and Ethereum through the Cboe Digital Exchange. With the introduction of these new options, Cboe strengthens its position in the rapidly expanding crypto derivatives market while meeting the growing demand for accessible and flexible investment tools.

A Key Step for the Future of Bitcoin ETFs

This product not only democratizes access to Bitcoin, but also bridges the gap between traditional and cryptocurrency markets. As investors continue to seek innovative ways to participate in the crypto ecosystem without assuming the technical risks, Cboe appears well-positioned to capture this opportunity.

The article Cboe Global Markets Launches Options Linked to Bitcoin Spot ETFs appeared first on Coin Academy.

Jaime Lizárraga, a commissioner of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and an influential figure in financial regulation, will be stepping down from his position on January 17, 2025, citing personal reasons. This departure, along with that of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler, could pave the way for a revamp of the SEC’s priorities under the future Trump administration. The financial sector anticipates a shift in regulation, with potential opportunities for crypto actors and asset managers.

Departure of Jaime Lizárraga, a Key Player in Regulation

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of the United States is set to lose a second senior official in a matter of months. Jaime Lizárraga, a commissioner of the agency, has announced that he will leave his position on January 17, 2025, after less than three years in the role. This departure, motivated by personal reasons relating to his wife’s health, marks the end of a career marked by a strong commitment to financial regulation and legislation.

Lizárraga began his journey at the SEC in the 1990s as the deputy director of legislative affairs. His influence grew when he became the senior advisor to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi from 2011 to 2022. One of his major contributions was his role in the drafting of the Dodd-Frank Act, a crucial legislation to reform financial practices after the 2008 crisis. As a commissioner, Lizárraga has been particularly active on topics such as climate risks, cybersecurity, and transparency in case of data breaches.

A Transitioning SEC

Lizárraga’s departure comes one day after the announcement of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler’s upcoming resignation, also scheduled for January. These successive resignations weaken the Democratic representation within the agency at a crucial moment, as President-elect Donald Trump is set to take office.

Under Gensler’s leadership, the SEC stood out for its strict approach to crypto regulation, marked by legal actions and sanctions. This departure could signify a change of direction for the agency, especially considering that Trump had promised to dismiss Gensler on his first day in office during a speech at the Bitcoin Conference in Nashville.

Opportunities for an Industry in Search of Stability

The prospect of a new administration and a revamped SEC is already generating excitement in the financial sector. On the same day as the announcement of Gensler’s departure, the BZX Exchange of the Chicago Board Options Exchange filed applications to allow several asset managers, such as Bitwise, VanEck, 21Shares, and Canary Capital, to launch Solana Spot ETFs. This initiative reflects hope for more favorable regulation and a less hostile environment for crypto under the future direction of the SEC.

A New Era for Financial Regulation?

With a change of leadership within the SEC and the start of Donald Trump’s presidency, the agency seems to be heading towards a revamp of its priorities. While the Gensler era was synonymous with stringent control, particularly regarding cryptocurrencies, the coming months could see a relaxation of policies and a revision of approaches. For the financial sector, these upheavals represent both challenges and opportunities in a context where market players are calling for clear and stable regulation to foster innovation.

The article Changes Expected in SEC as Key Regulator Departs appeared first on Coin Academy.

The imminent departure of Gary Gensler and Donald Trump’s pro-crypto policy could accelerate Schwab’s crypto services launch.

Schwab anticipates increasing demand for digital assets while maintaining a measured approach to protect its clients and reputation.

Charles Schwab Ready to Launch Crypto Trading

Charles Schwab, one of the giants in financial services in the United States with $7 trillion in assets under management, is preparing to offer direct crypto investments to its clients as soon as the regulatory framework becomes more favorable. Rick Wurster, current president and future CEO starting from January 1, 2025, confirmed this ambition in an interview with Bloomberg. Currently, the company offers crypto-related products such as ETFs and futures contracts, but aims to integrate spot trading into its portfolio of offerings.

This announcement comes as financial products related to crypto experience rapid growth in the United States. According to the latest data, Bitcoin Spot ETFs saw their total net value surpass $100 billion this week, a sign of the growing appetite among institutional investors for digital assets.

A Turn Supported by a Favorable Political Context

Schwab’s initiative comes at an optimistic market climate, marked by the reelection of Donald Trump, whose electoral program heavily focused on the development of cryptocurrencies. Trump promised favorable measures to the ecosystem, such as creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve for the country, increased support for crypto mining, and the promotion of decentralized finance technologies. Additionally, the announced departure of Gary Gensler, current chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, scheduled for January 2025, could pave the way for a more lenient regulatory approach.

Gensler, often seen as an adversary of cryptocurrencies due to his actions against major players such as Coinbase, Binance, and Kraken, symbolized an era of strict control. His departure is seen by many observers as a pivotal moment for the crypto sector.

Rick Wurster: A Measured yet Ambitious Approach

“Cryptocurrencies have certainly caught the attention of many people who have made a lot of money through them. I have not bought any cryptocurrencies, and I feel silly.”

While Schwab prepares to fully embrace the crypto market, Rick Wurster made it clear that he does not plan to personally invest in digital assets. This personal reserve contrasts with the company’s strategic vision, which aims to offer its clients investment opportunities in a rapidly expanding sector.

This strategy reflects a growing recognition of customer demand for crypto products as well as the importance of keeping pace with the swiftly evolving digital asset market. Schwab also appears to want to capitalize on the increasing popularity of cryptocurrencies as institutional financial instruments by diversifying its services to remain competitive against traditional finance players adopting similar approaches.

The article Charles Schwab to Launch Crypto Trading appeared first on Coin Academy.

The renowned decentralized prediction market, Polymarket, has abruptly suspended access to its platform for users in France following an investigation opened by the French government regarding its compliance with gambling laws. Although this restriction has not yet been reflected in Polymarket’s terms of use, attempts to access the platform via servers located in France confirm an effective blockage.

This decision comes after weeks of speculation that Polymarket, a pioneer in the field of decentralized prediction markets, is under scrutiny by the French Gaming Authority (ANJ). The agency responsible for regulating gambling in the country is conducting an in-depth investigation into the platform’s practices.

An Incident Triggered by a Risky Bet

The ANJ’s interest in Polymarket was aroused by a large-scale bet placed by a French trader on the outcome of the 2024 US presidential election. The bet, which heavily favored a victory for Donald Trump, caught the attention of regulators and raised questions about the legality of Polymarket’s activities under French regulations. The current legal framework imposes strict restrictions on online gambling, particularly regarding licenses and transparency.

Polymarket, a platform powered by blockchain technology, allows users to speculate on various events, ranging from election results to economic forecasts. While the platform’s innovation has attracted a global audience, it also appears to navigate in legal gray areas, especially in Europe and the United States.

Silence from Polymarket and French Authorities

Neither Polymarket nor the ANJ have responded to requests for comment regarding the investigation or the potential repercussions for the platform. This lack of communication creates uncertainty about Polymarket’s future in France and the measures the company may take to regularize its situation.

Currently, French users find themselves cut off from a platform that had gained popularity due to its innovative and decentralized approach. This blockade also raises broader questions about how European regulators will approach the emergence of blockchain-based prediction markets, a sector that is still loosely regulated but rapidly growing.

It is worth noting that the platform still appears to be easily accessible using VPN or simply changing DNS settings.

A Signal for the Crypto Industry

The Polymarket case could set a precedent for how European regulators monitor innovative crypto platforms. As the industry continues to expand, platforms like Polymarket must now contend with increased scrutiny and stricter regulatory expectations. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Polymarket will be able to meet the ANJ’s requirements or if it will be forced to revise its strategy to maintain its presence in the European market.

The article Polymarket Suspends Access for French Users Amid Investigation by French Gaming Authority appeared first on Coin Academy.

Bitcoin is on the verge of reaching the psychological and historical milestone of $100,000. As of Friday, its price hovers around $99,000, after reaching a peak earlier in the night. Nearly fifteen years after its creation, the pioneering cryptocurrency confirms its central position in a booming ecosystem. The total market capitalization of the crypto market also reaches an unprecedented record of $3.4 trillion, supported by a 4.5% increase in the past 24 hours.

Contagion Effect on Altcoins

The strength of Bitcoin acts as a catalyst for other major cryptocurrencies. Ethereum, up by 9% in the past 24 hours, is waking up after a disappointing week. Low-cap tokens closely correlated to Ether, such as MOG and PEPE, are climbing over 20%, benefiting from the growth of the Ethereum ecosystem. Solana has surpassed $260 for the first time, propelled by announcements of new ETFs in the United States and increased usage of its blockchain for memecoin trading. Cardano has surged by 12%, while XRP from Ripple stands out with a spectacular 25% jump, directly linked to the imminent departure of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler, seen as a victory for US business-related crypto projects.

A Historic Surge Towards $100,000

Bitcoin’s meteoric rise is accompanied by massive flows into Bitcoin ETFs in the United States. These ETFs recorded over $1 billion in net inflows, with BlackRock leading the way with $600 million injected into its flagship product, IBIT. Fidelity also captured $300 million in new capital. No withdrawals have been observed among the eleven listed ETFs, highlighting widespread investor confidence.

Perspectives of a Bullish Crypto Market

The favorable climate surrounding Bitcoin is amplified by positive expectations regarding the incoming Trump administration, set to take office in January. The hope for a more crypto-friendly government fuels growing optimism among investors, with Bitcoin options already anticipating prices above $100,000 for 2025. The options and futures market reflects this enthusiasm, with Bitcoin futures expiring in March, June, and September 2025 trading above $100,000. Call options at this price level record an open interest exceeding $2 billion, a clear indication of bullish trader expectations.

An End-of-Year Under Tension

Analysts agree on the possibility of a technical retracement approaching $100,000, but the fundamentals remain strong. Demand for Bitcoin remains high, supported by accommodating global monetary policy. Institutional investors and individuals seem ready to maintain their optimism as 2024 comes to an end.

If Bitcoin surpasses the symbolic threshold of $100,000 in the coming days, it will mark a new milestone in the adoption of cryptocurrencies and lay the foundation for an even more dynamic market next year. Who knows, CoinAcademy may take this opportunity to express its gratitude to its community…

The article Bitcoin Nears $100,000 as Crypto Market Reaches Record High appeared first on Coin Academy.

Gary Gensler, the controversial chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and a prominent figure in the aggressive regulation of cryptocurrencies, has announced that he will step down from his position when Donald Trump takes office on January 20, 2025. In an unusual move, Gensler will not only relinquish the chairmanship but also resign as commissioner, leaving the SEC without its key advocate for strict policies until the end of his term in 2026.

Gensler described the SEC as an “outstanding agency” in a statement, praising its role in protecting investors and ensuring transparent markets. He thanked President Joe Biden and his fellow commissioners while highlighting the agency’s efforts to preserve the integrity of the US financial markets. This announcement marks the end of an era in which the SEC, under Gensler’s leadership, engaged in decisive legal battles against the crypto industry.

The Repressive Nature of Crypto Regulation

Since taking over the SEC in April 2021, Gensler has made the regulation of cryptocurrencies a top priority. Despite hopes for a more permissive regulatory framework, he adopted a strict stance, launching numerous cases against major crypto trading platforms. Binance, Coinbase, Kraken, and others were targeted for their alleged operation as unregistered securities intermediaries. This strategy led to a significant increase in crypto-related lawsuits, with 18% of the SEC’s investigations in 2024 focusing on the sector, despite its limited impact on US financial markets.

Under Gensler’s tenure, the SEC also oversaw the approval of the first Bitcoin and Ethereum Spot ETFs, a decision that initially faced resistance. However, a judicial ruling compelled the SEC to authorize these ETFs, forcing Gensler to vote alongside the two Republican commissioners.

A Period of Uncertainty for the SEC

Gensler’s departure will leave a strategic void within the agency, especially during a presidential transition. Until a new chairman is nominated and confirmed by the Senate, the SEC will be split between two Democratic and two Republican members, preventing decisive progress in regulation policy. Several names are being considered as potential successors, including Teresa Goody Guillén, a regulation specialist, and Brian Brooks, former chief at Binance.US and a well-known figure in the crypto ecosystem.

However, institutional balance may delay major changes until a successor is confirmed. In addition, there are ongoing legal challenges: just hours before Gensler’s resignation announcement, a federal court invalidated the SEC’s attempt to broaden the legal definition of a “dealer,” putting a brake on its regulatory ambitions, including its case with ConsenSys.

A Controversial Legacy

Gary Gensler’s legacy at the SEC remains deeply polarizing. While his supporters praise his efforts to impose strict rules on an industry perceived as opaque and risky, critics denounce a repressive framework that hampers innovation. His strategy, based on rigorous enforcement of existing laws rather than creating new, adapted rules, has created escalating tensions with the crypto industry and certain lawmakers.

Gensler’s departure presents an opportunity for Donald Trump and his administration to redefine the trajectory of crypto regulation in the United States. The future of the industry will largely depend on the direction taken by the next SEC chairman and the approach of the expected Republican majority in the Commission.

The article Gary Gensler to Resign as SEC Chairman, Introducing Uncertainty in US Crypto Regulation appeared first on Coin Academy.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is currently reviewing the Solana Spot ETF filings from multiple exchange-traded fund (ETF) issuers, according to sources close to the matter.

The federal agency has started examining the S-1 documents submitted by these issuers, marking a crucial step in the ETF launch process. Among the key players involved are VanEck, 21Shares, and Canary Funds, who have already submitted their filings, while Bitwise recently announced their intention to do the same.

The next step will be to submit 19b-4 forms by US exchanges like CBOE, requesting authorization from the SEC to list these products. Once these forms are accepted, a 240-day period will begin for the agency to decide on the approval or rejection of the proposals.

Discussions Underway with SEC for Solana Spot ETF

Talks between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and several ETF issuers looking to launch a Solana Spot ETF are progressing, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The SEC has begun reviewing the S-1 documents filed by these issuers, which signals an important milestone in the ETF launch process. VanEck, 21Shares, and Canary Funds are among the participants who have already submitted their filings, with Bitwise recently announcing their intention to follow suit.

The next step will involve the submission of 19b-4 forms by US-based exchanges such as CBOE, seeking permission from the SEC to list these products. Once these forms are accepted, a 240-day period will commence for the agency to make a decision on approving or rejecting the proposals.

A More Favorable Climate for Crypto ETFs?

The filing of 19b-4 forms does not guarantee the approval of an ETF, as demonstrated by the past rejections of VanEck and 21Shares, whose previous filings were withdrawn from the CBOE website in August. These withdrawals sparked speculation about the SEC’s reluctance, under the leadership of Gary Gensler, to approve cryptocurrency-based products.

However, recent signs indicate a shift, particularly since the election of Donald Trump, who promised to fire Gensler. Ongoing discussions with the SEC teams, combined with the arrival of an administration perceived as more crypto-friendly, fuel hopes for potential approval of a Solana Spot ETF. The concerned issuers believe that these factors could lead to approval by 2025, marking a significant turning point for the crypto sector.

A Strategic Stake for Solana and Investors

The prospect of a Solana Spot ETF is generating increasing excitement among investors. Unlike futures-based ETFs, a spot ETF would allow for direct investment in the SOL token, providing a more accurate exposure to its real price. This development could enhance Solana’s legitimacy as an institutional investment asset while solidifying its position among the top blockchains. The impact of Bitcoin Spot ETFs on BTC’s price is undeniable, with over $30 billion in net inflows accumulated in these new products launched in January.

In contrast, ETH has not experienced the same demand following the approval of Ethereum Spot ETFs, with more modest but still impressive results for the industry. If Solana Spot ETFs are approved, attention will turn to SOL, which could directly benefit from it after already delivering an impressive performance this year.

SOL saw a 7% price increase today, surpassing $250 for the first time since November 2021 before stabilizing around $245.

While awaiting the SEC’s decision, all eyes are on the next steps of the process, which could determine the future of crypto ETFs in the US market.

The article SEC Reviews Solana Spot ETF Filings appeared first on Coin Academy.

Take advantage of 40% off on Nano S and Nano X, 25% off on the Nano S Plus Noir, and $70 in Bitcoin for the purchase of a Ledger Flex. These offers are available from November 21st to December 5th on the official Ledger website using our promo code.

Ledger, the Leader in Crypto Security

In the crypto space, security remains an absolute priority. Ledger has established itself as the ultimate reference for securely storing your digital assets. For Black Friday, the French brand is offering exclusive deals on its flagship products, allowing users to secure their cryptocurrencies while making significant savings. These promotions, valid from November 21st to December 5th, are an opportunity not to be missed to invest in a reliable and high-performing hardware wallet.

Discounts on Ledger Nano S Plus, Nano X, and Flex Models

Crypto enthusiasts will find their happiness with enticing discounts on several Ledger models. Here are the details of the offers:

• 40% off on Nano S and Nano X models, perfect for users seeking a robust and versatile solution.
• 25% off on the Nano S Plus Noir, an elegant and practical version, ideal for daily use.
• $70 in Bitcoin offered for the purchase of a Ledger Flex, an innovative design novelty.

These promotions provide access to top-of-the-line wallets at unbeatable prices. Whether you are a novice or an expert in cryptocurrencies, this is the perfect opportunity to strengthen your security.

Why Choose Ledger?

Ledger is not just a manufacturer of crypto wallets. Its products offer advanced protection with certified chips and integration with Ledger Live, an intuitive interface for easy asset management. The brand is renowned for its reliability and ability to meet the needs of millions of users worldwide.

• Nano S and Nano X: Compact and efficient, they are suitable for investors looking to secure multiple cryptocurrencies.
• Nano S Plus: An improved version with a larger screen and increased capacity.
• Ledger Flex: A recent innovation combining futuristic design and advanced technology.
• Ledger Stax: For users seeking a high-end model with unique features.

How to Take Advantage of These Offers

To benefit from these discounts, visit the official Ledger website by clicking here and use the dedicated promo codes during your purchase. These offers are limited in time and could run out quickly due to the high demand during Black Friday.

A Strategic Investment

In a context where crypto hacks and thefts are frequent, investing in a Ledger wallet is a wise decision to protect your assets. With discounts of up to 40% and Bitcoin bonuses, it is the perfect time to adopt a secure, recognized, and accessible solution.

Don’t wait any longer to take advantage of these exclusive offers and join the millions of users who trust Ledger to secure their cryptocurrencies!

The article Ledger Offers Unbeatable Black Friday Discounts on Crypto Security appeared first on Coin Academy.

A two-hour unexpected interruption occurred on the relatively new Sui blockchain on Thursday. The cause of this incident was a bug affecting the transaction planning logic, a crucial element of its operation. This malfunction resulted in a sudden halt in the validator network, temporarily paralyzing the entire network.

The Sui team quickly identified and fixed the issue, allowing operations to resume after a relatively short interruption for this type of outage.

Suspension of Trading and Impact on SUI Price

The interruption had an immediate impact on trading platforms, with several, including Upbit, temporarily suspending SUI token transactions. Users were unable to make transfers or access their funds during the interruption. Such reactions are common during blockchain outages as platforms seek to protect users from potential data synchronization or transaction processing issues.

The native Sui token, SUI, experienced a notable impact. Its value dropped by approximately 7% during the outage, reflecting investors’ concerns about the perceived fragility of the network. However, the rapid resumption of operations and assurances from the technical team allowed the token to regain its value once the issue was resolved.

The Inherent Risks of Blockchains and the Reliability Challenge

Blockchain outages, while undesirable, are not uncommon. They can be caused by various factors, ranging from technical errors to malicious attacks like 51% attacks. In the case of Sui, the precise cause was related to a software bug, a type of vulnerability that highlights the constant challenges blockchain networks face in ensuring their reliability. Errors in the code, particularly when it is outdated or poorly tested, can render essential processes of a network inoperable.

This type of incident also highlights the importance of validators, entities that ensure transaction processing and block synchronization. If a network’s validators fail to function cohesively, the entire ecosystem temporarily collapses.

Rapid Response to Mitigate Damage

Despite the outage, the ability of the Sui team to quickly identify the problem and restore the network is a positive point for the reputation of this young blockchain. This kind of responsiveness is essential for establishing trust among users and investors, especially in an industry where every incident can become a market alarm.

This incident serves as a reminder that even the newest blockchains, often designed to address the shortcomings of their predecessors, are not immune to unforeseen events. If Sui aims to establish a lasting presence in a competitive market, it must continue to strengthen its infrastructure and minimize the risks of outages.

The article Sui Blockchain Outage Raises Continued Reliability Concerns appeared first on Coin Academy.

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.

The article Child Rugs Memecoin: A Phenomenon Sparking a Surge in Value appeared first on Coin Academy.