Etherealize closed a $40 million funding round to accelerate institutional adoption of Ethereum by building tokenization and settlement infrastructure for institutions, while public firms added roughly $1.26 billion of ETH
BitcoinWorld CalPERS Crypto: The Urgent Debate Dividing a $506B Pension Fund The financial world is buzzing with a pivotal discussion at the heart of one of the largest public pension funds globally. The California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), managing a staggering $506 billion in assets, is grappling with a significant question: should it embrace CalPERS crypto investments? This isn’t just a theoretical discussion; it’s a real debate among its board candidates, and its outcome could set a precedent for institutional investors worldwide. The Heart of the CalPERS Crypto Debate: A Clear Divide The upcoming CalPERS board election in November has brought this contentious issue into sharp focus. Decrypt recently reported on the differing viewpoints of key candidates regarding digital assets. This division highlights the ongoing struggle many traditional financial institutions face when considering the volatile yet potentially lucrative world of cryptocurrency. Board candidate David Miller has unequivocally stated that including cryptocurrency directly in the pension fund is ‘out of the question.’ His stance reflects a cautious approach, prioritizing the stability and long-term security expected from a pension fund responsible for the retirement savings of millions of public employees. This perspective often emphasizes the inherent risks, regulatory uncertainties, and price volatility associated with digital assets. Conversely, fellow candidate Dominic Bei offers a more nuanced perspective. He argues that CalPERS already has a degree of indirect exposure to Bitcoin. This comes through its $170 million holding in MicroStrategy stock, a company known for its significant Bitcoin treasury reserves. Bei’s argument suggests that completely ignoring crypto is no longer feasible, given its growing presence in the broader financial market and the portfolios of publicly traded companies. Why is CalPERS Crypto Adoption Such a Hot Topic? The debate around CalPERS crypto adoption is more than just an internal discussion; it reflects a broader shift in how institutional investors view digital assets. Pension funds, by their nature, are typically conservative. They prioritize capital preservation and consistent returns over speculative gains. However, the unprecedented growth and increasing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are forcing a re-evaluation. Potential Benefits of CalPERS Crypto Exposure: Diversification: Cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, have historically shown a low correlation with traditional asset classes, potentially offering valuable diversification benefits. Inflation Hedge: Proponents argue that Bitcoin, with its capped supply, could serve as a hedge against inflation, a growing concern for long-term investors. Growth Potential: Despite volatility, the long-term growth trajectory of the crypto market remains attractive to some investors seeking higher returns than traditional assets currently offer. Key Challenges and Concerns: Volatility: The significant price swings of cryptocurrencies pose a risk to a fund designed for stability. Regulatory Uncertainty: The evolving and often unclear regulatory landscape for digital assets presents compliance challenges. Custody and Security: Safely storing large amounts of digital assets requires specialized infrastructure and expertise, which can be complex and costly. Indirect Exposure and Future Implications for CalPERS Crypto Dominic Bei’s point about indirect exposure through MicroStrategy stock is particularly insightful. It highlights a reality for many large funds: even if they don’t directly invest in crypto, their portfolios may already contain companies that do. This means the performance of the crypto market can still indirectly impact their returns. This indirect exposure could serve as a ‘toe in the water’ for CalPERS. It allows the fund to gain some benefit from the crypto market’s performance without directly taking on the full operational and regulatory burden of holding digital assets. However, it also means that the fund is exposed to crypto-related risks without having direct control over the specific digital asset investments. What Does This Mean for the Future of Pension Fund Crypto? The CalPERS debate is a microcosm of a larger trend. As cryptocurrencies mature and become more integrated into the global financial system, pension funds and other institutional investors will face increasing pressure to consider them. The question is no longer ‘if’ they will engage, but ‘how’ and ‘when’. The outcome of the CalPERS board election and the subsequent policy decisions will be closely watched. A move towards direct CalPERS crypto investment, even a small allocation, could signal a significant shift in institutional acceptance. Conversely, a firm rejection might reinforce traditional conservative investment strategies for a while longer. Ultimately, the decision will involve a careful balancing act between potential rewards and inherent risks. It requires a thorough understanding of the evolving digital asset landscape and a clear vision for the fund’s long-term financial health. Summary: A Watershed Moment for Institutional Crypto The division among CalPERS board candidates regarding CalPERS crypto investments underscores a critical juncture for institutional finance. With a $506 billion fund at stake, the debate is not merely about adding a new asset class; it’s about defining the future investment philosophy for a major pension system. Whether through direct allocation or continued indirect exposure, the influence of cryptocurrencies on traditional portfolios is undeniable. The upcoming election will play a crucial role in determining CalPERS’ path forward in this exciting, yet challenging, new financial frontier. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What is CalPERS and why is its crypto debate important? CalPERS is the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, one of the largest public pension funds globally, managing $506 billion. Its debate over cryptocurrency investments is important because its decision could influence other large institutional investors and set a precedent for how pension funds approach digital assets. 2. What are the main arguments against CalPERS investing in crypto? The primary arguments against direct crypto investment for CalPERS include high volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and the inherent risks associated with a new and rapidly evolving asset class. Opponents prioritize the stability and security of the pension fund’s long-term investments. 3. How does CalPERS currently have ‘indirect exposure’ to Bitcoin? CalPERS holds $170 million in MicroStrategy stock. MicroStrategy is a publicly traded company that has made significant investments in Bitcoin for its corporate treasury. Therefore, CalPERS’ investment in MicroStrategy indirectly exposes it to Bitcoin’s price movements. 4. What are the potential benefits of CalPERS crypto investment? Potential benefits include portfolio diversification due to low correlation with traditional assets, a possible hedge against inflation given Bitcoin’s fixed supply, and the opportunity for long-term growth in a rapidly expanding market. 5. When is the election for the CalPERS board that will influence this decision? The election for the CalPERS board is scheduled for November, and the outcome will significantly impact the fund’s future investment strategies regarding cryptocurrencies. If you found this discussion on CalPERS crypto and institutional investment insightful, please share this article with your colleagues and on social media. Your engagement helps us continue to provide valuable insights into the evolving world of finance. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin institutional adoption. This post CalPERS Crypto: The Urgent Debate Dividing a $506B Pension Fund first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
Ripple has extended the reach of its US dollar-backed stablecoin, Ripple USD (RLUSD), into Africa, forming new partnerships with fintech platforms Chipper Cash, VALR, and Yellow Card. Key Takeaways: Ripple has partnered with Chipper Cash, VALR, and Yellow Card to bring RLUSD to institutional users across Africa. RLUSD is built for enterprise use cases, including remittances, treasury management, and tokenized asset trading. The stablecoin is also being tested in climate insurance pilots in Kenya, linking payouts to real-world weather data. The move opens regulated access to a stable digital dollar for institutional users across the continent, where demand for reliable cross-border payment infrastructure continues to grow, Ripple said in a Thursday blog post . Launched in late 2024, RLUSD is issued by a New York trust company regulated by the state’s Department of Financial Services and has surpassed $700 million in supply on Ethereum and the XRP Ledger. RLUSD Stablecoin Targets Remittances, Treasury, and Tokenized Asset Trading The stablecoin is designed to serve enterprise-grade use cases such as remittances, treasury operations, and tokenized asset trading. Ripple’s expansion comes as stablecoins gain traction as a faster, lower-cost alternative to traditional payment systems in regions with limited access to banking infrastructure. In markets across Africa, stablecoins like USDT are already used for savings and international transfers. RLUSD’s arrival provides a regulated option tailored to institutions, with compliance built into its structure. “RLUSD is uniquely positioned to drive institutional use of blockchain technology across Africa and broader global markets,” said Chipper Cash CEO Ham Serunjogi. VALR CEO Farzam Ehsani emphasized the demand for high-quality digital assets, while Yellow Card’s Chris Maurice highlighted the need for reliable stablecoins in cross-border payments and treasury management. 1/ The next chapter for $RLUSD starts in Africa. → https://t.co/6gRqrdNwSW We're proud to bring our trusted, USD-backed stablecoin to the continent with new partners @chippercashapp , @VALRdotcom , and @YellowCard_App . Together, we'll unlock new potential for cross-border… — Ripple (@Ripple) September 4, 2025 Beyond payments, RLUSD is also playing a role in real-world use cases. In Kenya, Mercy Corps Ventures is piloting the stablecoin in climate risk insurance programs. In one initiative, RLUSD is held in escrow and released automatically when satellite data detects drought conditions. Another pilot provides rainfall insurance, with funds disbursed in the event of extreme weather. Ripple’s strategic push into Africa reflects a broader aim to position RLUSD as a preferred stablecoin for regulated institutions globally. With additional listings across major exchanges like Bitstamp, Kraken, and Gemini, RLUSD is becoming increasingly accessible for enterprises seeking compliance-grade infrastructure for digital assets. Stablecoins Find Momentum Globally Globally, stablecoin regulation is accelerating. In the US, President Donald Trump signed the first federal stablecoin bill on July 18, calling it a “giant step” toward securing American dominance in global finance and crypto technology. As reported, Western Union is positioning itself for a new phase of digital transformation, signaling strong interest in using stablecoins to modernize its global remittance operations. In July, CEO Devin McGranahan outlined how stablecoins could streamline cross-border transfers, improve currency conversion in underserved markets, and provide financial tools for populations grappling with unstable local currencies. Meanwhile, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has said the stablecoin sector is poised for explosive growth, projecting the market could balloon from its current $250 billion capitalization to as much as $2 trillion in the near future. The post Ripple Expands Dollar-Backed Stablecoin RLUSD to Africa via New Partnerships appeared first on Cryptonews .
BitcoinWorld Sui Data Privacy: Mysten Labs Unveils Revolutionary Seal Service A significant leap forward for Web3 has just arrived! Mysten Labs, the innovative developer behind the high-performance blockchain Sui (SUI), has officially launched Seal on its mainnet. This groundbreaking service is set to revolutionize Sui data privacy , offering decentralized data privacy management that addresses a critical need in the blockchain ecosystem. For anyone building or interacting with decentralized applications, understanding Seal’s capabilities is essential for a more secure digital future. What is Seal and Why Does it Matter for Sui Data Privacy? Seal is a decentralized data privacy management service designed to bring robust privacy features directly to the Sui network. Before Seal, developers building on Web3 often faced a dilemma: how to handle sensitive user or application data securely without relying on centralized solutions. This often meant compromising on the very decentralized principles Web3 stands for. Mysten Labs created Seal to bridge this gap. It introduces two core features that empower users and developers: Trustless Encryption: Data can be encrypted in a way that doesn’t require users to trust a third party. The encryption keys and processes are managed on-chain, ensuring maximum security. Programmable Access Control: Developers and users can define precise rules for who can access encrypted data and under what conditions. This is done through smart contracts, ensuring transparency and immutability for all interactions. This development is crucial because it empowers developers to build dApps with native, on-chain data privacy, significantly enhancing the security and user confidence in the Sui ecosystem. It truly redefines what’s possible for sensitive information on the blockchain. How Does Seal Enhance User Control and Sui Data Privacy? The absence of native encryption and on-chain access controls has long been a challenge for Web3 applications. Developers were forced to use off-chain, centralized tools for data management, which undermined the decentralized ethos and introduced single points of failure. Seal changes this paradigm by integrating privacy features directly into the blockchain’s architecture. Imagine a decentralized social media platform on Sui. With Seal, a user could encrypt their private messages, allowing only the intended recipient to decrypt them, all managed by smart contracts. Or consider a health data application where a user grants temporary access to a specific doctor for a limited time. This level of granular control over personal data is a game-changer for Sui data privacy and user empowerment. By providing these essential tools, Seal fosters an environment where: Users have ultimate sovereignty over their data, controlling who sees what and when. Developers can innovate with confidence, knowing sensitive data is protected by robust on-chain mechanisms. The integrity and trustworthiness of decentralized applications are significantly strengthened, building a more reliable Web3. What Are the Benefits of This Advancement for the Sui Ecosystem? The launch of Seal brings several compelling benefits to the Sui ecosystem and the broader Web3 landscape. It addresses long-standing issues with innovative solutions: Enhanced Trust: Users are more likely to adopt dApps when they know their data is truly private and secure, managed by immutable code rather than centralized entities. Developer Empowerment: Developers now have native tools to build privacy-preserving applications directly on Sui, reducing reliance on complex off-chain solutions. This simplifies development and opens up new use cases. New Use Cases: Industries requiring stringent data privacy, such as healthcare, finance, and enterprise solutions, can now explore decentralized applications on Sui with greater confidence. Competitive Advantage: Sui distinguishes itself as a blockchain platform that prioritizes and provides robust on-chain data privacy solutions, setting it apart from competitors. This innovative service positions Sui as a leader in addressing one of Web3’s most pressing challenges, setting a new standard for decentralized application development and user security. What’s Next for Sui Data Privacy and Decentralized Applications? While Seal offers a powerful solution, its success will also depend on widespread adoption by developers and the community. Education and seamless integration will be key to unlocking its full potential. As more developers begin to leverage Seal’s capabilities, we can expect to see a new wave of privacy-focused dApps emerge on Sui, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The introduction of Seal is not just a technical upgrade; it’s a philosophical statement. It underscores Mysten Labs’ commitment to building a truly decentralized internet where user privacy is paramount. This move strengthens the foundation for a more secure and user-centric Web3 experience, particularly for those concerned with their Sui data privacy . In conclusion, Mysten Labs’ Seal service marks a pivotal moment for Sui data privacy . By offering trustless encryption and programmable access control directly on the mainnet, Seal eliminates the need for centralized tools, empowering both developers and users. This innovation paves the way for a more secure, private, and truly decentralized Web3 future, where data sovereignty is not just a promise, but a reality on the Sui blockchain. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What exactly is Mysten Labs’ Seal service? A1: Seal is a decentralized data privacy management service launched by Mysten Labs on the Sui mainnet. It provides trustless encryption and programmable access control for data on the blockchain. Q2: How does Seal address existing data privacy issues in Web3? A2: Previously, Web3 developers often relied on centralized tools for data encryption and access control due to a lack of native on-chain solutions. Seal solves this by offering these features directly on the Sui blockchain, maintaining decentralization. Q3: What are the main benefits for developers using Seal? A3: Developers gain native, on-chain tools for building privacy-preserving dApps, reducing reliance on complex off-chain solutions, simplifying development, and opening up new use cases for sensitive data. Q4: How does Seal enhance user control over their data? A4: Seal enables users to encrypt their data trustlessly and define precise access rules via smart contracts. This means users have granular control over who can access their encrypted information and under what conditions. Q5: Can Seal be used for all types of data on Sui? A5: Seal is designed to manage sensitive data, providing encryption and access control for app data on the Sui network. Its programmability allows for a wide range of applications requiring enhanced privacy. If you found this insight into Mysten Labs’ Seal service valuable, consider sharing it with your network! Help spread the word about the future of decentralized data privacy on Sui and empower more users and developers in the Web3 space. To learn more about the latest Sui trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Sui ecosystem growth . This post Sui Data Privacy: Mysten Labs Unveils Revolutionary Seal Service first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
Electric Capital and Paradigm helped raise $40 million for the Ethereum advocacy company Etherealize as public firms added billions worth of Ether.
BitcoinWorld Binance Alpha Unlocks Exciting Opportunity with GATA Listing The cryptocurrency world is constantly evolving, with new projects emerging daily. For savvy investors seeking the next big opportunity, platforms that offer early access are invaluable. This is precisely why the latest announcement regarding Binance Alpha and its addition of GATA is generating significant buzz. Binance Alpha , an innovative on-chain trading platform seamlessly integrated within the Binance Wallet, specializes in bringing these promising, early-stage coins to light. What is Binance Alpha and Its Unique Value Proposition? Binance Alpha serves as a dedicated gateway for users to discover and trade nascent cryptocurrency projects directly from their Binance Wallet. It’s designed for those who understand the potential for substantial growth in the early phases of a coin’s lifecycle. Essentially, it streamlines the process of engaging with cutting-edge digital assets before they hit mainstream exchanges. The recent addition of GATA to Binance Alpha signifies a new opportunity. While specific details about GATA’s project are emerging, its listing suggests it has met Binance Alpha’s rigorous vetting process. This process typically evaluates a project’s innovation, technology, team, and community potential, ensuring that only projects with genuine promise are presented to users. Consequently, GATA’s presence on the platform immediately elevates its visibility and perceived credibility within the crypto community. Unlocking Early Access: The Binance Alpha Advantage One of the primary benefits of using Binance Alpha is the unparalleled access it provides to projects in their infancy. This early access can translate into significant advantages for investors. By getting in before widespread adoption, there’s a greater potential for higher returns if the project gains traction. Moreover, the platform offers a secure and familiar environment, leveraging the robust infrastructure of the Binance ecosystem. Investors can participate in on-chain trading directly, which offers transparency and direct interaction with the blockchain. This direct engagement ensures that transactions are recorded publicly and immutably, enhancing trust and reducing reliance on intermediaries. Therefore, Binance Alpha is not just about listing coins; it’s about fostering a secure and efficient environment for early-stage crypto exploration. Navigating Early-Stage Investments on Binance Alpha: Key Insights Successfully navigating the early-stage crypto market requires a strategic approach. Here are some actionable insights for users exploring opportunities on Binance Alpha : Conduct Due Diligence: Always research the project thoroughly. Understand its whitepaper, team, technology, and market potential. Start Small: Allocate only a small portion of your portfolio to early-stage, high-risk investments. Diversify: Spread your investments across multiple early-stage projects to mitigate risk. Stay Informed: Follow project updates, community discussions, and market trends closely. For instance, imagine a project that aims to revolutionize supply chain management using blockchain. Its early listing on Binance Alpha could provide the initial funding and exposure needed for its development, offering early investors a chance to be part of its growth story. However, if the technology faces unforeseen challenges or market adoption is slow, the investment could lose value. This highlights the dual nature of opportunity and risk inherent in early-stage ventures. In conclusion, the addition of GATA to Binance Alpha marks an exciting development for the crypto community, particularly for those with an appetite for early-stage investments. This dedicated on-chain trading platform within the Binance Wallet continues to serve as a crucial conduit for discovering innovative projects. While offering significant potential for growth, it also underscores the importance of diligent research and prudent risk management. As the crypto landscape matures, Binance Alpha remains a key player in shaping the future of decentralized finance by empowering early adoption. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is Binance Alpha? Binance Alpha is an on-chain trading platform integrated within the Binance Wallet, specifically designed to list and facilitate trading of early-stage cryptocurrency coins. What kind of projects does Binance Alpha list? It focuses on listing early-stage coins from innovative projects that have undergone a rigorous vetting process, offering users access to potential high-growth opportunities. Is investing on Binance Alpha risky? Investing in early-stage projects inherently carries higher risks due to market volatility and the nascent nature of the projects. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and practice risk management. How does Binance Alpha benefit investors? It provides early access to promising new projects, offering the potential for significant returns if the projects succeed. It also leverages Binance’s secure infrastructure for on-chain trading. What should I consider before investing in an early-stage coin on Binance Alpha? Consider the project’s fundamentals, team, technology, market potential, and your personal risk tolerance. Always conduct your own due diligence. *** If you found this article insightful, consider sharing it with your network! Help others discover the exciting opportunities and important considerations when exploring early-stage crypto investments on platforms like Binance Alpha . To learn more about the latest explore our article on key developments shaping early-stage crypto market adoption . This post Binance Alpha Unlocks Exciting Opportunity with GATA Listing first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
Tokenized equities fall under the larger real-world assets (RWA) umbrella which is forecasted to exceed $30 trillion by 2034 according to Standard Chartered Bank’s research. TradFi Meets DeFi: Ondo and Block Street to Tokenize US Equities Traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi) are increasingly resembling two peas in a pod and Block Street, a
Explore the top Web3 jobs in 2025, salary ranges and how to start in the best-paying blockchain careers.