The European Central Bank’s recent interest rate cut has triggered a notable 3.2% surge in Bitcoin prices, signaling renewed investor confidence in the cryptocurrency market. This monetary policy adjustment has
HodlX Guest Post Submit Your Post Do you know that one misstep from a Web 3.0 founder could bring the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) knocking at the doorstep of the company unannounced? This has been the fate of reputable projects like Ripple, Block.one and so on. Their regulatory missteps have turned into multi-million-dollar headaches for years now. Let’s take Ripple as a case study . Over the years, the SEC sued Ripple, claiming that XRP was an unregistered security – this has led to lengthy battles. Consequently, this prolonged battle had a huge impact on XRP market value, and holders experienced a significant loss. According to this source , after Ripple was granted a partial victory through summary judgments, CEO Brad Garlinghouse said the company has spent over $150 million on its defense. Thus, while there is no perfect approach to staying off the SEC’s radar, especially if you’re founding a solution-driven project. Here is a guide that can arm you with the right compliance strategies to stay off their radar. SEC scrutiny and the regulatory nature of the blockchain startup A lot has happened in recent years with the SEC asserting itself over many projects falling short of its standards. For new companies emanating in the Web 3.0 space, knowing how to build on a compliant basis from day one is no doubt paramount to their survival. Yes, SEC scrutiny might delay a launch, freeze assets or give rise to enforcement actions, but the basic aim of this article is to give a legal-strategic guide to the founders of Web 3.0 projects that wish to identify possible risks tied to the SEC, approach compliance from a proactive standpoint and build up their projects for the long haul. This guide is a sort of seasoned lawyer’s toolkit for compliance without stifling innovation. 1. Understand the SEC’s role in Web 3.0 regulation This is one of the surest ways to avoid SEC scrutiny. Technically, the SEC is charged with protecting investors and maintaining fair, orderly markets. While their interest isn’t limited to ICOs (initial coin offerings) – it extends to DeFi (decentralized finance) protocols, staking mechanisms, NFT (non-fungible token) projects, token-based fundraising and more. One of the common mistakes startup founders make is thinking that decentralization exempts them from scrutiny. According to this source , SEC has increased their dogged vigilance in holding projects accountable, even retroactively. Crypto startup owners must understand that regulators view blockchain through a risk-focused lens, and they prioritize consumer protection over the innovation you’re bringing in. Furthermore, founders have to align operational frameworks with regulatory expectations from inception. Startups that anticipate and respond to the SEC’s evolving stance gain credibility not just with regulators but with investors and users alike. Also, when founders understand the regulators’ triggers and intentions, they can conceive products and ecosystems that innovate within the legal guardrails. 2. The Howey test and token classification – The SEC’s primary lens Once a project structurally passes the Howey test , it has passed the first compliance checkpoint. This test is not just central to SEC enforcement – it’s their primary lens that determines whether a digital asset qualifies as a security. What is a Howey test? It is simply analyzed as an investment of money in a common enterprise with a reasonable expectation of profits to be derived from the efforts of others. Here are the four-pronged Howey test questions to be asked. Is there any investment of money? Is it a common enterprise? Is there an expectation of profits? Is it derived from the efforts of others? If the answer is ‘yes’ to all four, the asset is perceived as a ‘security’ and subject to SEC rules. For years now, many tokens have been sold with speculative promise. To avoid such scrutiny, founders must carefully structure their tokenomics. While this act may include removing profit expectations, decentralizing control and delaying token issuance until the network is sufficiently mature, legal memos and third-party assessments can help support the non-security classification. One of the SEC’s rules has emphasized that simply calling a token a ‘utility’ doesn’t exempt it from being a security. The Howey test is functional, and a rigorous application of it that is backed by legal counsel and documentation is the first line of defense in controlling regulatory risk and avoiding unwanted SEC attention. 3. Smart structuring from day one – Entity formation and jurisdiction One of the smartest ways to avoid SEC scrutiny is to engage in smart structuring from the beginning. How a startup incorporates and where it operates can significantly impact its regulatory exposure. For instance, US-based startups fall directly under the SEC’s oversight, so selecting the right entity type (LLC, C-Corp, Foundation) and jurisdiction is very strategic. While offshore jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands or Switzerland may offer more favorable regulatory environments for token-based projects, it doesn’t absolve the startup completely from US law if their citizens’ investments are involved. More so, a project with dual-entity structure – for example, a dual between the US C-Corp for operations and an offshore foundation for protocol governance – can offer balance, but it must be supported by robust governance, crystal clear roles and arms-length dealings. Early legal counsel is critical here because any missteps in entity setup can jeopardize the startup in multi-jurisdictional legal issues that are very costly and time-consuming to resolve. Blockchain birthed decentralization, and decentralization eradicates excessive protocol from the development team. But for it not to be an SEC meal ticket, it must be handled with legal precision to avoid scrutiny. The end goal is to align the structure with the project’s operational goals and compliance needs. 4. Regulatory-first tokenomics design No matter how great your Web 3.0 project ideas are, if you toil with your tokenomics, you’re giving the SEC an open invitation. Startups must think beyond utility and value capture to consider how their token models may be perceived under securities laws. Avoiding profit promises is essential. For example, it’s much safer to design structures for tokens to be earned through network participation or staking instead of speculative promises that entice people to participate during pre-launch. By doing this, you’re reducing legal exposure. More so, vesting schedules for team and investor tokens should be transparent and defensible. The more a token ecosystem is decentralized at launch, the lower the risk. Airdrops and ‘fair launches’ are also under scrutiny if tied to promotional schemes or disguised fundraising. Any Web 3.0 startup that embeds compliance in tokenomics has not only de-risked its operations but has also gained investor confidence by showing that its model can withstand regulatory due diligence. 5. Implementing an education compliance program Education is a powerful key and leveraging it can help Web 3.0 founders to avoid the SEC’s strong scrutiny. By ensuring that your team members understand compliance obligations, you can prevent inadvertent violations. When your team members are armed with the necessary knowledge, like periodic audits and internal legal reviews, how they consult with outside counsel will help smooth your project processes and avoid violations. Meanwhile, it’s also wise to engage with regulators when appropriate, for instance, you could submit no-action letters or seek interpretative guidance. A startup that shows proactive compliance is more likely to receive regulatory cooperation than a sanction. 6. Build a compliance shield – KYC/AML as a non-negotiable pillar While decentralization is a core value of Web 3.0, KYC (know your customer) and AML (anti-money laundering) protocols are non-negotiable from a regulatory perspective. The SEC, along with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), expects any entity engaged in token sales or exchanges to implement KYC/AML safeguards. Failure to do so not only attracts scrutiny but can invite criminal liability. Blockchain startups must integrate identity verification processes for investors and users – particularly during token distributions, fundraising or when providing financial-like services. Tools like Chainalysis or TRM Labs can also help monitor on-chain behavior for suspicious activity. Privacy does not mean anonymity in the eyes of regulators – it means responsible data management. Even decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) that facilitate economic activity must consider KYC obligations, depending on their functions. Embedding these checks from day one allows your project to scale lawfully. Moreover, demonstrating AML/KYC readiness opens up institutional partnerships and fiat on-ramp opportunities. In a maturing market, clean compliance can be more valuable than fast growth. 7. Understand how to navigate fundraising – From reg D to reg CF Do you know how to navigate fundraising without raising eyebrows? Whether it’s token sales, SAFEs (Simple Agreements for Future Equity) or even NFT-based fundraising, to avoid pitfalls, Web 3.0 founders must align their fundraising approach with one of the SEC’s recognized exemptions. One of these is Regulation D (Reg D). It allows private offerings to accredited investors without full SEC registration. It’s commonly used during token presales but requires proper filings (Form D) and marketing restrictions. Another is Regulation CF (Regulation Crowdfunding). It offers a path for raising from the general public, up to $5 million annually, with lower compliance burdens than IPOs. It still mandates disclosures, investor limits and platform usage. In order not to trigger SEC scrutiny, you must avoid these death traps, and they are as follows: misrepresenting the offering, failing to file accordingly and overselling tokens. More so, ensure your legal counsel is fully involved when structuring these rounds and drafting appropriate documentation. Smart fundraising isn’t just about capital – it’s about regulatory sustainability. 8. Staying ahead, constant monitoring and having an experienced legal counsel The path to success is not just paved with code and capital – it’s fortified with legal foresight. Hiring and retaining experienced legal counsel is not a luxury but a necessity. After my recent LinkedIn interview with Yarden Noy , blockchain legal and regulatory advisor at DTL Law, on the basic requirements of hiring a seasoned blockchain lawyer or advisor, here is his feedback. Noy said, “It’s not enough to simply know the law in this industry. “A seasoned blockchain lawyer should be able to analyze the unique model and features of a project, identify the relevant laws that apply or may apply to it and apply them in this constantly evolving and dynamic landscape. “And all of that must be in a way that facilitates the project’s growth – not stifling it. “Lawyers in this nuanced space need to have a good understanding not only of the law but also of the technology, the industry and the Web 3.0 community. “Even the best legal advice, when not coupled with an understanding of the unique features of the crypto world, would be of little to no use for a crypto entrepreneur.” Your legal advisor should not be left out on tactical activities like periodic legal reviews, audits and compliance updates that surround the legal boundaries of your project. Furthermore, as the SEC continues to evolve its posture on blockchain regulation, Web 3.0 startups must adapt continuously to match the changes in global regulatory frameworks. Startups must maintain internal communication channels for discussing compliance updates, ensuring all stakeholders – from developers to marketers – act in sync. The goal is not just to avoid enforcement but to build a business that can grow confidently under regulatory clarity. In conclusion, if you’re a founder pregnant with a revolutionary Web 3.0 idea, build boldly and legally – compliance isn’t a burden. Ejiofor Francis is a seasoned technology writer with over six years of experience. His current focus is on finance, blockchain, Al and tech matters. He loves helping both startups and mid-sized companies to develop great SEO content and marketing strategies that set them on the right track. Check Latest Headlines on HodlX Follow Us on Twitter Facebook Telegram Check out the Latest Industry Announcements Disclaimer: Opinions expressed at The Daily Hodl are not investment advice. Investors should do their due diligence before making any high-risk investments in Bitcoin, cryptocurrency or digital assets. Please be advised that your transfers and trades are at your own risk, and any loses you may incur are your responsibility. The Daily Hodl does not recommend the buying or selling of any cryptocurrencies or digital assets, nor is The Daily Hodl an investment advisor. Please note that The Daily Hodl participates in affiliate marketing. Generated Image: Midjourney The post How a Startup Could Avoid SEC Scrutiny With Strong Compliance Strategies appeared first on The Daily Hodl .
TESLA TRADING AT $300 IN EXTENDED SESSION AFTER SINKING AS LOW AS $273 INTRADAY $TSLA $TSLL
Bitcoin long traders faced significant losses as the cryptocurrency’s price declined amid escalating macroeconomic tensions and intensified public disputes involving key figures. Long-term Bitcoin holders have increasingly liquidated positions following
The post What Is Pi Network’s GCV and Why Is Everyone Talking About It? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News Pi Network’s GCV has become one of the most discussed topics in the community lately. Some believe it is the key to massive wealth, while others call it pure hype. What’s really going on? Let us break it down. The term GCV in the Pi Network community stands for Global Consensus Value, an idea introduced by Pi enthusiasts to set a fixed value for Pi Coin. Some fans claim that 1 Pi Coin equals $314,159, inspired by the mathematical constant π (pi). They say that Pi’s rising user base, real-world uses, and limited supply justify such a valuation and see it as a motivational tool to encourage adoption and participation. Critics See Red Flags But critics said that since there is no official approval or big exchange listings yet, it is just speculation and an unrealistic hope that might end up disappointing them. They even compare Pi Network to multi-level marketing or Ponzi schemes due to its reliance on social media campaigns and referrals. PI NETWORK NEWS: Big Congratulations to Mr. Vijay Soni as the Head of GCV Ambassador in France! Thank you for your outstanding creativity, leadership, and tireless commitment to advancing the GCV movement in France and across the world! Global GCV Core Team April… pic.twitter.com/JrdjbJqNkw — JoJo-π (@jojo102102) April 13, 2025 Dr Altcoin recently stepped up to clear the air. He clarified that GCV was never backed by market data or the Pi Core Team. It came from a group of early users who truly believed in Pi’s huge potential and promoted the idea through events, campaigns, and community efforts. The Reality Check The catch here is that while the Pi Core Team never officially endorsed GCV, they also never clearly rejected it. Their vague comments like “Pi is worth what pioneers make it worth” allowed the myth to spread. Pi is currently trading at about $0.6323, which is far away from the claimed $314,159. GCV supporters point to many blockchain transactions, but these involve only small items, not big purchases. One case showed paying thousands in fees for a $3 item that was very unrealistic. The GitHub Confusion Some people point to Kosasi’s GitHub to justify GCV, but the analyst says that the code was copied and has no link to the Pi Core Team. Many wrongly think the community can set Pi’s price, but he emphasized that real value comes from scarcity, utility, and trust, and not hype. With 100 billion coins, Pi is not scarce like Bitcoin. GCV would make Pi worth $72 trillion, which would be more than the world’s GDP, and far from being true. He has stressed the need for the Core Team to step up and clear the confusion. Focus on Real Progress Instead of chasing these shallow dreams, the community needs to focus on faster KYC, smooth mainnet launch, tokenomics clarity, migration speed, improved validator rewards, and real-world use cases that give Pi true value. With proper planning, real-world use, and transparency, Dr Altcoin predicts it to reach $100 to $300. Analyst Mr. Spock has also called out GCV promoters for misleading the Pi community. He warned that these false claims have crashed Pi’s price multiple times and hurt real Pioneers. The real threat is not the price, it’s the manipulation by people using Pi for personal gain, he said.
Romania’s national postal service, Poșta Română, has launched its first Bitcoin ATM, marking a pivotal moment in expanding cryptocurrency access nationwide. This initiative leverages the postal network’s extensive reach to
BitcoinWorld Institutional Staking: BitGo Unveils Secure TAO Staking Service with Yuma In a significant move for the world of digital asset management, BitGo has officially announced the launch of institutional staking services for TAO, the native token of the decentralized AI network Bittensor. This development, revealed via BitGo’s X account, marks a crucial step in expanding access to yield-generating opportunities within the cryptocurrency market for large-scale investors and financial institutions. The service is being rolled out in partnership with Yuma, a recognized validator in the Bittensor ecosystem, aiming to provide a secure and compliant pathway for institutions looking to participate in network consensus and earn rewards through TAO staking . What is Institutional Staking and Why is it Important? Institutional staking refers to the participation of large financial entities – such as hedge funds, asset managers, and corporations – in the process of staking cryptocurrencies. Unlike retail staking, which can be done individually or through smaller platforms, institutional staking requires robust infrastructure, stringent security measures, regulatory compliance, and sophisticated reporting capabilities. BitGo specializes in providing these high-level services, making them a key player in enabling institutions to enter the staking arena. The importance of institutional involvement in crypto staking cannot be overstated. It brings significant capital into proof-of-stake networks, enhancing their security and decentralization. Furthermore, it signals growing maturity and acceptance of digital assets within traditional finance, potentially paving the way for wider adoption. For institutions, staking offers a way to generate passive income on their digital asset holdings, adding a new dimension to portfolio management beyond simple price appreciation. Deep Dive into TAO Staking and Bittensor’s Ecosystem Bittensor (TAO) is a fascinating project that aims to create a decentralized, open-source network for machine intelligence. It functions as a marketplace for AI models, where participants contribute computational resources or intellectual property and are rewarded in TAO tokens based on the value they add to the collective intelligence. Staking TAO is integral to the network’s operation, allowing participants to become validators or delegate their tokens to validators to earn rewards from network emissions and transaction fees. The decision by BitGo to offer Bittensor staking specifically highlights the growing interest in AI-focused blockchain projects among institutional investors. As AI continues to dominate technological discussions, networks like Bittensor that merge AI development with decentralized principles are attracting attention. Staking TAO allows institutions not only to earn yield but also to implicitly support and participate in the growth of a cutting-edge decentralized AI infrastructure. BitGo’s Secure Infrastructure for Institutional Staking BitGo is a well-established digital asset trust and security company known for providing institutional-grade custody, trading, and finance services. Their entry into BitGo staking for assets like TAO is a natural extension of their core offerings. For institutions, security and compliance are paramount concerns when dealing with digital assets. BitGo addresses these needs through: Qualified Custody: Secure storage solutions that meet regulatory requirements. Insurance: Protection against potential losses due to theft or other security breaches. Compliance Frameworks: Adherence to relevant financial regulations and AML/KYC procedures. Robust Technology: Infrastructure designed for high availability and protection against slashing risks associated with staking. Partnering with a trusted validator like Yuma further enhances the reliability and performance of the TAO staking service offered by BitGo, ensuring that institutional assets are managed professionally and securely while participating in the Bittensor network. The Role of Yuma Validator in the Partnership While BitGo provides the institutional gateway and secure infrastructure, Yuma serves as the operational validator within the Bittensor network. Validators play a critical role in proof-of-stake systems; they are responsible for proposing and validating new blocks on the blockchain. This work is essential for maintaining the network’s integrity and processing transactions. Yuma’s expertise as a validator in the Bittensor ecosystem is crucial for the success of this institutional offering. They manage the technical complexities of running validator nodes, ensuring high uptime and performance to maximize staking rewards and minimize potential penalties (slashing) that can occur if a validator goes offline or acts maliciously. This partnership leverages the strengths of both entities: BitGo’s institutional-grade security and client management, and Yuma’s specialized technical knowledge in validating for the Bittensor network. Benefits of BitGo’s Institutional TAO Staking For institutions considering adding TAO to their portfolio, staking through BitGo offers several compelling benefits: Yield Generation: Earn passive income on TAO holdings through staking rewards. Enhanced Security: Leverage BitGo’s battle-tested security and custody solutions, mitigating risks associated with self-staking or using less secure platforms. Simplified Participation: BitGo handles the technical complexities of staking, reporting, and reward distribution. Regulatory Compliance: Access staking services that align with institutional compliance requirements. Participation in AI Growth: Support and benefit from the growth of the decentralized Bittensor AI network. This service lowers the barrier for entry for institutions interested in Bittensor staking , providing a familiar and trusted counterparty to manage their digital assets and staking activities. Challenges and Considerations for Institutional Stakers While the benefits are clear, institutions must also consider potential challenges associated with crypto staking : Slashing Risk: Although minimized by professional validators like Yuma and platforms like BitGo, there is always a theoretical risk of losing staked assets if the validator misbehaves or suffers technical issues. Lock-up Periods: Staked assets are typically locked for a certain period, affecting liquidity. Institutions need to understand the unbonding period for TAO. Price Volatility: The value of the staked asset (TAO) can fluctuate significantly, impacting the overall return on investment in fiat terms. Regulatory Uncertainty: The regulatory landscape for crypto staking is still evolving in many jurisdictions. Tax Implications: Staking rewards have tax implications that institutions must navigate. BitGo aims to help institutions navigate these complexities by providing secure infrastructure and potentially assisting with reporting, but thorough due diligence is always required. Market Implications and Future Outlook The launch of institutional TAO staking by a major player like BitGo is a positive signal for both Bittensor and the broader institutional crypto market. It indicates increasing institutional appetite for yield-bearing digital assets beyond the major ones like Ethereum. It also validates the importance of specialized service providers like BitGo in bridging the gap between traditional finance and decentralized networks. As more institutions become comfortable with crypto staking , we can expect to see increased capital flow into proof-of-stake networks, potentially boosting network security and stability. This trend is likely to accelerate as regulatory clarity improves and more mature financial products around staking emerge. Actionable Insights for Institutions Institutions interested in exploring Bittensor staking through BitGo should: Assess Risk Tolerance: Understand the potential risks, including slashing and price volatility. Evaluate Liquidity Needs: Be aware of the lock-up and unbonding periods for TAO. Consult with BitGo: Engage directly with BitGo’s institutional team to understand the specific terms, security measures, and reporting capabilities of their TAO staking service. Review Validator Performance: While BitGo partners with Yuma, understanding Yuma’s track record as a validator is prudent. Consider Regulatory and Tax Implications: Consult with legal and tax professionals regarding staking rewards. Utilizing a trusted platform like BitGo provides a more secure and compliant path compared to navigating the complexities of staking independently. Summary: A New Era for Institutional Crypto Yield BitGo’s launch of institutional TAO staking with Yuma is a significant development, expanding the options available to large investors seeking yield in the crypto space. By providing a secure, compliant, and professionally managed service, BitGo is lowering the barriers for institutions to participate in the Bittensor network and benefit from its growth and staking rewards. This move underscores the increasing maturity of the digital asset market and the growing institutional interest in innovative decentralized projects like Bittensor. As institutional crypto staking continues to evolve, services like this will play a vital role in driving broader adoption and integrating digital assets into traditional financial portfolios. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping institutional adoption. This post Institutional Staking: BitGo Unveils Secure TAO Staking Service with Yuma first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team
North Korea’s sprawling crypto laundering network has been hammered as U.S. authorities seized $7.74 million tied to fake IT jobs, blockchain trickery, and weapons funding. DOJ Targets North Korea’s Crypto Laundering Network With Asset Seizure The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on June 5 that it has filed a civil forfeiture complaint seeking to
Dogecoin started a fresh decline from the $0.20 zone against the US Dollar. DOGE is now consolidating losses and might recover if it clears $0.180. DOGE price started a fresh decline below the $0.1880 and $0.180 levels. The price is trading below the $0.1850 level and the 100-hourly simple moving average. There is a key bearish trend line forming with resistance at $0.1880 on the hourly chart of the DOGE/USD pair (data source from Kraken). The price could start a fresh decline if it declines below the $0.1680 zone. Dogecoin Price Dips Below Support Dogecoin price started a fresh decline after it failed to clear the $0.20 zone, like Bitcoin and Ethereum . DOGE declined below the $0.1920 and $0.1880 levels. The bears even pushed the price below the $0.1750 level. A low was formed at $0.1687 and the price is now consolidating losses below the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $0.2005 swing high to the $0.1687 low. Dogecoin price is now trading below the $0.1850 level and the 100-hourly simple moving average. There is also a key bearish trend line forming with resistance at $0.1880 on the hourly chart of the DOGE/USD pair. Immediate resistance on the upside is near the $0.1760 level. The first major resistance for the bulls could be near the $0.1840 level. It is close to the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the $0.2005 swing high to the $0.1687 low. The next major resistance is near the $0.1880 level. A close above the $0.1880 resistance might send the price toward the $0.20 resistance. Any more gains might send the price toward the $0.2050 level. The next major stop for the bulls might be $0.2120. More Losses In DOGE? If DOGE’s price fails to climb above the $0.1850 level, it could start another decline. Initial support on the downside is near the $0.1685 level and the trend line. The next major support is near the $0.1650 level. The main support sits at $0.1550. If there is a downside break below the $0.1550 support, the price could decline further. In the stated case, the price might decline toward the $0.1350 level or even $0.1320 in the near term. Technical Indicators Hourly MACD – The MACD for DOGE/USD is now losing momentum in the bearish zone. Hourly RSI (Relative Strength Index) – The RSI for DOGE/USD is now below the 50 level. Major Support Levels – $0.1680 and $0.1650. Major Resistance Levels – $0.1760 and $0.1880.
Bitcoin long traders took a hit over the past 24 hours amid Bitcoin’s price dwindling amid broader macroeconomic tension and continued sell-offs by long-term holders.