$MNT Bulls Charge Past $0.91, But Overheated RSI Warns of Consolidation

Mantle’s $MNT token jumped 15.6% to $0.91 as traders piled into the Layer-2 network amid surging DeFi activity. While the asset’s technical indicators show the move may be overheating, the broader picture reveals a network gaining serious traction. With major upgrades rolling out and key partnerships forming, Mantle appears to be hitting its stride at just the right moment in Ethereum’s scaling race. Source: Coingecko Mantle Hits $2.95B Market Cap: Can It Overtake Top L2s? Mantle is a modular Layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum, built on Optimistic Rollups and integrated with EigenDA to enhance data availability and security. Since its mainnet launch in July 2023, Mantle has rolled out OP-Stack upgrades, including meta-transactions and fee optimizations, and launched the Mantle Ecofund, allocating $200 million for developer grants to drive DeFi, gaming, and AI innovation. As a utility and governance token, $MNT pays for transaction fees and on-chain voting and currently has a market cap of more than $2.953 billion . A flurry of partnerships and product launches has put Mantle Network squarely in the spotlight in the last few months. Since its February 2025 integration with Chainlink Scale , Mantle has operated live Data Feeds and Data Streams on mainnet, allowing decentralized oracle data at high throughput for smart contracts. Under the hood, Mantle’s technical architecture has made strides in both throughput and security. In March 2025, Mantle became the first major L2 to fully integrate EigenDA, expanding its data availability operators from just 10 to over 200 and slashing trust assumptions in favor of economic security. EigenDA is now the LARGEST alternative DA provider in the world (in TVL secured). Meet the new blueprint for scaling the next decade of crypto infrastructure. Why @Mantle_Official trusts EigenDA to verify and secure $1.3B in value pic.twitter.com/Xkh1DxoxVz — EigenCloud (@eigenlayer) March 19, 2025 Gaming and DeFi projects continue to flock to the platform: the April Games Fest spotlighted HyperPlay titles, while AI-driven platforms like Funny Money and cross-chain swaps via Bungee have gone live as part of a broader push to make Mantle a true “ liquidity chain .” In April, Mantle launched the Mantle Index Four (MI4)—a $400 million, Securitize-backed institutional fund that tokenizes a diversified basket of Layer 1 and Layer 2 assets via on-chain minting and redemption mechanics. We’re pleased to announce the launch of the Mantle Index Four (MI4) Fund—a new institutional-grade crypto product developed in partnership with @Mantle_Official and backed by a $400M anchor investment from Mantle Treasury. MI4 is designed to become the de facto SPX or S&P 500 of… pic.twitter.com/rNLuIaaPhH — Securitize (@Securitize) April 24, 2025 These upgrades demonstrate a commitment to “progressive decentralization,” marrying high throughput with cryptographic guarantees. Last week at @gmvn_official , Mantle Network's Head of Product @joshuacheong took the stage to share how the chain’s modular infrastructure brings institutional-grade security from Ethereum together with speed and scalability, without compromises. Here are 5 key takeaways from… pic.twitter.com/xZ4HU1iX98 — Mantle (@Mantle_Official) August 4, 2025 On the incentives front, Mantle has kept users engaged with regular reward campaigns. June’s Yapperboard Challenge Phase 2 doled out 50,000 MNT in weekly Discord rewards, and July 8 kicked off the $1.2 million MNT Reward Booster Season 3 —locking MNT allows users to earn proportional shares of the prize pool through time-weighted snapshots. This spurred further on-chain activity, reflecting robust adoption: Q1 2025 recorded about 650,000 daily active users and over 30 million transactions, according to Mantle’s own progress review , showing a vibrant developer and user base. DeFi TVL stands at $233 million, up 2.4% in 24 hours, while bridging TVL exceeds $1.7 billion. As Mantle pushes toward its v2 roadmap with ZK proofs and expanded DA bridges, the coming months are expected to be another proving ground for this fast-moving Layer 2. Mantle Breaks Out Above $0.91, But Aggressive Sellers Return Near Session Highs $MNT has extended its upward streak on the back of sustained demand, pushing to a high of $0.9207 before retreating slightly. What’s interesting with this move is the shift in volume dynamics across the 1-hour footprint and how the price responded to it. During the early phase of the session, buy volume rose aggressively between $0.8650 and $0.8800 with supportive deltas in excess of 600K, which is indicative of committed spot and perpetual buyers lifting offers across multiple price levels. $MNT/USDT price chart, August 5 (Source: TradingView) This laid the groundwork for the impulsive move toward the $0.91 zone. However, the character changed in the final two candles. The volume footprint showed that while total traded volume exceeded 3.9 million in the last hour, delta flipped sharply negative to -1.07M. This goes beyond passive distribution; it was more of a direct selling into bids after a vertical rise. Such behavior often implies profit-taking or renewed supply entering the market, especially when it coincides with key round numbers like $0.9200. The 4-hour price chart backs up the strength of the rally, as $MNT pushed well above its 20, 50, and 100 SMAs, all now stacked in proper bullish order. The asset’s price has broken out of a falling structure and left behind a V-shaped recovery. That said, the RSI is approaching overheated territory, reading at 73.81, which historically warns of potential pause or pullback. The MACD remains supportive of trend continuation, with the lines widening and histogram building upwards, but it’s already extended. Momentum remains strong overall, but it’s worth noting the shift in effort versus result. Buyers had to expend more volume to push the price just a few cents higher toward the close. Unless fresh demand steps in above $0.9150, the risk of a local pullback grows. $MNT’s price may revisit the $0.8800–$0.8850 area again to test whether recent buyers are willing to reload. If they do, the way toward $0.94 remains open. If not, we could see today’s high as a temporary ceiling. The post $MNT Bulls Charge Past $0.91, But Overheated RSI Warns of Consolidation appeared first on Cryptonews .

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Liquid Staking: SEC’s Landmark Clarification Brings Immense Relief to DeFi

BitcoinWorld Liquid Staking: SEC’s Landmark Clarification Brings Immense Relief to DeFi The crypto world is buzzing with significant news! The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has provided a much-anticipated clarification regarding liquid staking activities. This development, initially reported by Walter Bloomberg on X, confirms that these activities are not considered securities under current regulations. This announcement brings immense clarity and potentially paves the way for greater innovation in the decentralized finance (DeFi) space. What Exactly is Liquid Staking and Why Does This Matter? Many in the crypto community have eagerly awaited guidance on various aspects of digital assets. So, what is liquid staking , and why is the SEC’s statement so crucial? Liquid staking allows users to stake their cryptocurrencies (like Ethereum) to support a blockchain network while still retaining a liquid token representing their staked assets. This liquid token can then be used in other DeFi protocols, offering flexibility and additional yield opportunities. Previously, uncertainty existed about whether these liquid staking tokens, or the activities themselves, might fall under securities laws. This ambiguity created a cloud of regulatory risk, hindering growth and participation. The SEC’s recent stance provides a welcome sigh of relief. The SEC’s Stance: A Breakthrough for Digital Asset Regulation? The U.S. SEC’s statement signifies a pivotal moment for digital asset regulation . By explicitly stating that liquid staking activities are not classified as securities, the commission offers a clearer framework. This move distinguishes liquid staking from other crypto offerings that the SEC has previously deemed securities, such as certain initial coin offerings (ICOs). This clarification suggests a more nuanced approach from the regulator, potentially indicating a willingness to understand and differentiate various blockchain-based activities. It empowers developers and users within the DeFi ecosystem to proceed with more confidence, reducing the fear of unforeseen legal challenges. This positive development could foster a new wave of innovation. Boosting DeFi Innovation and Blockchain Securities How will this clarification impact the broader landscape of DeFi innovation and the perception of blockchain securities ? The positive ripple effects are substantial across the industry. Increased Participation: More users might feel comfortable engaging in liquid staking protocols, knowing the regulatory uncertainty has lessened significantly. Enhanced Development: Developers can now build more robust and integrated DeFi applications that leverage liquid staking without the looming threat of being classified as unregistered securities. Market Confidence: This clarity could attract institutional investors who typically shy away from unregulated or ambiguous areas, potentially bringing more capital into the DeFi space. The distinction between liquid staking and traditional securities could set a precedent for future regulatory discussions concerning other decentralized protocols. This move is a crucial step towards fostering a more predictable environment for the digital asset economy. What Are the Next Steps for Crypto Enthusiasts and Developers? While this news is overwhelmingly positive, it is important to remember that the regulatory landscape is always evolving. What should crypto enthusiasts and developers consider moving forward? Stay Informed: Continue monitoring SEC statements and broader crypto regulations. Regulatory clarity can be incremental and subject to further interpretation. Due Diligence: Always conduct thorough research on any liquid staking protocol or DeFi platform before participating. Understand the risks involved, including smart contract vulnerabilities and market volatility. Advocate for Clarity: Support initiatives that promote clear, sensible regulation for the digital asset space. This ongoing dialogue is crucial for sustainable growth and further DeFi innovation . This clarification on liquid staking is a significant step towards fostering a more predictable and innovative environment for decentralized finance. In conclusion, the U.S. SEC’s recent statement confirming that liquid staking activities are not classified as securities marks a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency industry. This announcement provides much-needed regulatory clarity, significantly reducing uncertainty for participants and paving the way for accelerated DeFi innovation . It reinforces the idea that not all digital asset activities fit neatly into existing regulatory boxes and encourages a more nuanced approach. As the crypto ecosystem continues to mature, such distinctions are vital for fostering growth and ensuring a robust, compliant future. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. What is liquid staking? Liquid staking allows users to stake their cryptocurrencies (like Ethereum) to secure a blockchain network while receiving a liquid token representing their staked assets. This liquid token can then be used in other decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. 2. Why is the SEC’s clarification on liquid staking significant? The SEC’s statement confirms that liquid staking activities are not considered securities under current regulations. This provides crucial regulatory clarity, reducing uncertainty and fostering greater participation and innovation in the DeFi sector. 3. Does this mean all crypto activities are not securities? No, this clarification specifically applies to liquid staking activities. The SEC has previously deemed other crypto offerings, such as certain initial coin offerings (ICOs), as securities. Each crypto activity is assessed individually. 4. How does this impact DeFi projects? This clarity is highly beneficial for DeFi projects. It reduces regulatory risk for platforms offering liquid staking services, potentially attracting more users and institutional investment, and encouraging further development of integrated DeFi applications. 5. What should users consider before engaging in liquid staking? Users should always conduct thorough due diligence on any liquid staking protocol. Understand the specific risks involved, including smart contract vulnerabilities, potential impermanent loss, and overall market volatility, even with regulatory clarity. Did this groundbreaking news on liquid staking clarify your understanding of crypto regulations? Share this article with your friends and fellow crypto enthusiasts on social media to spread the word about this crucial development! To learn more about the latest liquid staking trends, explore our article on key developments shaping decentralized finance innovation. This post Liquid Staking: SEC’s Landmark Clarification Brings Immense Relief to DeFi first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

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BNB Defies Selloffs, Stays Within 30% of All-Time High

TL;DR BNB trades around $760, maintaining stability while other top cryptocurrencies faced steeper market losses. A rounding bottom breakout puts $745 as key support and potential targets at $790 to $1,000. Institutional players like Nano Labs are adding BNB to treasuries, signaling rising corporate interest. Price Near Record Levels BNB changed hands at $760 at press time, with over $1 billion in 24-hour volume. Prices dipped slightly in a day and 9% over the past week. In the last 24 hours, BNB traded between $755 and $770. Its seven-day range was $735 to $833. The token is still only 12% below its record high of $858 (CoinGecko data), set on July 28, 2025. Crypto analyst Crypto Patel pointed out that BNB has outperformed most major altcoins during this market downturn. Many tokens have fallen 60–80% from their peaks, but BNB never slipped beyond 30%. That steadiness keeps it close to record levels while the broader crypto market remains shaky. $BNB is performing better than most other major coins. While many dropped by 60–80%, #BNB never fell more than 30%. Now it’s already close to its all-time high. Quietly strong and consistent. Source: CryptoQuant @cz_binance @binance pic.twitter.com/EIhlqQO4WO — Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) August 4, 2025 Market data tracking the drawdown from all-time highs for top altcoins shows a clear difference. BNB, marked in blue, saw its pullbacks stay between -6% and -30%. XRP ranged from -15% to -38%, while ETH also touched -38%. SOL had the heaviest losses, dropping over 60% from its high. Interestingly, the numbers show that BNB stayed more stable than its peers. It held its ground during periods where other coins swung sharply lower, giving it a reputation for relative consistency. Chart Patterns and Future Targets Analyst Jonathan Carter identified a rounding bottom pattern on the daily chart. BNB broke above the neckline near $745 and is now retesting that level as support. Holding this zone would keep the bullish setup in place. #BNB Binance Coin is retesting the broken neckline of a rounding bottom pattern on the daily timeframe The price needs to hold above the neckline level to confirm the support and continue the bullish momentum If confirmed, we could see the price surge toward targets at… pic.twitter.com/KTrtx2T4aV — Jonathan Carter (@JohncyCrypto) August 4, 2025 In case of a resumed momentum, Carter identified potential highs at $790, $850, $900, and $1,000. Volume and the RSI readings indicate that the current rally has taken a breather, and the price is consolidating upon breaking out. Ecosystem Updates and Institutional Interest Binance rolled out a web wallet that allows traders to approve transactions for up to seven days and opened bitcoin options writing to all users. Both changes are designed to support active traders and strengthen BNB’s ecosystem. Corporate interest has picked up as well. CEA Industries, Liminatus Pharma, Windtree Therapeutics, and Nano Labs have all revealed BNB-related plans. Nano Labs said it purchased 128,000 BNB as part of its new treasury strategy. BNB remains on watch as it retests support and approaches critical resistance zones that could lead to new highs. The post BNB Defies Selloffs, Stays Within 30% of All-Time High appeared first on CryptoPotato .

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Towns Protocol Gets Exciting Coinbase Support on Base Network

BitcoinWorld Towns Protocol Gets Exciting Coinbase Support on Base Network Get ready, crypto enthusiasts! A significant development just dropped in the world of decentralized applications: Coinbase is officially adding support for Towns Protocol ’s TOWNS token on the Base network . This exciting Coinbase listing marks a pivotal moment for the growing Web3 gaming sector, promising enhanced accessibility and liquidity for a promising new project. What is Towns Protocol and Why Does Coinbase Care? Towns Protocol stands out as a unique Web3 social gaming platform. It aims to empower players with true ownership over their in-game assets and experiences. Unlike traditional games, Towns Protocol leverages blockchain technology to create a more open and user-centric ecosystem. The TOWNS token serves as the native utility token within this ecosystem. It facilitates various in-game actions, governance, and economic interactions. Consequently, its availability on a major exchange like Coinbase is a game-changer. Why is this Coinbase listing so important? Coinbase is one of the largest and most trusted cryptocurrency exchanges globally. Its support brings: Increased Visibility: Millions of new users can now discover Towns Protocol. Enhanced Liquidity: Easier buying and selling of the TOWNS token. Greater Legitimacy: A stamp of approval from a reputable platform. This move clearly signals Coinbase’s growing interest in the burgeoning Web3 gaming space and its commitment to listing innovative projects. How Does the Base Network Elevate This TOWNS Token Listing? The decision to list the TOWNS token on the Base network is strategic. Base, an Ethereum Layer 2 blockchain incubated by Coinbase, offers several advantages. It provides a scalable and cost-effective environment for decentralized applications. For Towns Protocol, building on Base means users can enjoy: Lower Transaction Fees: More affordable in-game interactions. Faster Transaction Speeds: A smoother gaming experience. Strong Security: Inheriting Ethereum’s robust security features. This synergy between Coinbase, Base, and Towns Protocol creates a powerful trifecta. It streamlines the user experience for those engaging with Web3 gaming, making it more appealing to a broader audience. Therefore, the choice of Base is crucial for the long-term success and adoption of the TOWNS token. What Impact Will This Coinbase Listing Have on Web3 Gaming? The integration of Towns Protocol and its TOWNS token onto Coinbase’s platform, specifically via the Base network , sends a strong message across the entire cryptocurrency market. It validates the potential of decentralized gaming and the broader Web3 ecosystem. This development could lead to a ripple effect, encouraging other major exchanges to explore similar listings. Furthermore, it might inspire more developers to build innovative Web3 gaming projects, knowing there’s a clearer path to mainstream adoption and liquidity. For the average user, this means easier access to engaging Web3 gaming experiences. It reduces the friction often associated with navigating complex decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystems. Ultimately, this move contributes significantly to the mainstream acceptance and growth of the Web3 gaming paradigm. When can trading begin? Coinbase announced that trading will commence later today, provided liquidity conditions are met. This standard practice ensures a stable trading environment for all participants. The Future is Bright for Towns Protocol The Coinbase listing of Towns Protocol ’s TOWNS token on the Base network is undeniably a significant milestone. It not only elevates Towns Protocol but also shines a spotlight on the burgeoning potential of Web3 gaming . As more users gain easy access to these innovative projects, we can expect the decentralized gaming landscape to evolve rapidly. This is a clear indicator that Web3 gaming is moving from niche to mainstream, offering exciting opportunities for players and investors alike. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is Towns Protocol? Towns Protocol is a Web3 social gaming platform designed to give players true ownership of their in-game assets and experiences through blockchain technology, fostering a more open and user-centric gaming environment. What does Coinbase support mean for TOWNS token holders? Coinbase’s support for the TOWNS token means increased visibility, enhanced liquidity, and greater legitimacy for the token. Holders will find it easier to buy, sell, and trade TOWNS, making it more accessible to a broader audience. Why is the Base network significant for this listing? The Base network, an Ethereum Layer 2 solution incubated by Coinbase, provides Towns Protocol with lower transaction fees, faster transaction speeds, and strong security. This improves the overall user experience for Web3 gaming on the platform. How does this impact the broader Web3 gaming landscape? This Coinbase listing validates the potential of decentralized gaming, potentially encouraging other major exchanges to list similar projects and inspiring more developers to build in the Web3 gaming space. It helps reduce friction for users, accelerating mainstream adoption. When can trading of TOWNS token begin on Coinbase? Coinbase announced that trading for the TOWNS token will commence later today, provided that sufficient liquidity conditions are met on the platform. Did you find this update helpful? Share this article on your social media to inform your network about the exciting developments in Web3 gaming and Coinbase’s latest listing! To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping decentralized gaming institutional adoption. This post Towns Protocol Gets Exciting Coinbase Support on Base Network first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

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Top Trending Cryptos to Watch Today: Mantle, Cronos & Litecoin

Today's market spotlight shifts to three promising cryptocurrencies. Discover why Mantle , Cronos , and Litecoin are capturing attention and showing potential for significant growth. Peek into the factors driving their momentum and what makes them stand out in the crowded crypto space. Dive into the article to uncover the trends that could shape their future. Mantle (MNT): Recent Movement and Critical Price Levels Mantle experienced noticeable shifts over the past month and six months. The coin surged approximately 48% in one month, followed by a pronounced uptrend that faced a 27% pullback over a six-month period. Price action varied widely, marked by a steady weekly gain of about 4%, hinting at underlying momentum amidst broader volatility. Price levels largely remained confined within a range from $0.58 to $0.88, reflecting a market responding to dynamic changes and intermittent investor interest. Oscillators and momentum figures suggest shifts between bullish bursts and temporary corrections, showcasing a market that tests both upward and downward pressures. Current price levels anchor tightly between support and resistance boundaries. The coin trades in a defined band with immediate resistance at $1.01 and a secondary barrier at $1.31, while support sits near $0.42 and a lower cushion at $0.12. Price consistently finds footing at these support levels, facing pressure when approaching resistance. Bulls appear cautiously optimistic with a rising moving average recommendation near $0.93, though oscillators indicate some lingering hesitation. Trading within these levels suggests a strategy of buying on dips near support and considering scaled exits around $1.01, especially given recent momentum. The current lack of a clear trend calls for vigilant monitoring of these key boundary levels. Cronos: Month Surge and Bullish Pivot Amid Support and Resistance Levels Cronos experienced a remarkable 71.15% gain over the past month and a 36.48% rise in the last six months, showing impressive short-term increase and steady long-term progress. The coin’s price moved significantly in recent weeks, indicating heightened trader interest and swift market response. The notable one-month surge points to renewed confidence in the asset, while the six-month growth reflects underlying strength developed over time. These changes suggest that Cronos has been capitalizing on market opportunities, with rapid price action in the short run and consistent gains over a longer period. The current trading arena sits between $0.0956 and $0.1663, with immediate resistance around $0.1935 and firm support established at $0.0521. A secondary resistance appears at $0.2642, while another support level lies at zero. Technical indicators show a slight upward thrust with the Awesome Oscillator at 0.0174, though a nearly flat Momentum Indicator at -0.003 and a minor negative Oscillators Recommendation of -0.182 suggest mixed signals. A Relative Strength Index of 61.431 hints that buyers are active, yet caution is warranted as price action remains balanced. Traders might consider entering long positions near the support level, and a confirmed break above $0.1935 could ignite further bullish momentum. Litecoin's Strong Momentum and Key Price Levels Over the last month, Litecoin experienced a strong upward move with a notable monthly gain of 38.55% and a weekly increase of 11.35%. The coin posted a 17.33% rise over the past six months, showing consistent strength throughout both short-term and intermediate periods. Price action has attracted trader attention and provided momentum that hints at a bullish outlook. Market activity has maintained a steady pace as indicated by these sharp increases, pointing to a market responsive to recent catalysts and investor interest. The current trading range for Litecoin sits between $84.91 and $124.80, with the nearest support at $63.72 and resistance at $143.51. A second resistance is noted at $183.40, while a lower support is observed at $23.83. The Relative Strength Index hovers near 69.48, signaling overbought conditions. Momentum stands at 7.51 and the Awesome Oscillator registers a positive reading of 8.63, indicating bullish forces pushing prices higher. Although buyers have driven prices upward, the range-bound action suggests no clear trend. Traders might watch for a breakout above $143.51 for further gains, while pullbacks to support levels could offer potential entry points. Conclusion MNT , CRO , and LTC are gaining significant attention today. MNT shows strong potential with its innovative technology. CRO is growing due to increased use in transactions. LTC remains a reliable choice for many due to its longevity and dependability. Keeping an eye on these cryptos could be beneficial as they continue to develop and attract interest. Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

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Trump signs 11 trade deals ahead of new tariff rollout

The U.S. government brought in $30 billion from tariffs in July, a new monthly record that pushes total tariff collections for 2025 past $152 billion. That’s a 261% increase from March’s $8.2 billion, when President Donald Trump’s latest round of global trade duties began kicking in, according to Treasury Department data . This revenue spike comes right before a fresh batch of tariff rate changes goes live on Thursday, August 7. They were originally scheduled to begin on August 1, but Trump’s team delayed them by a week to give the U.S. Customs and Border Protection more time to handle logistics. Since April, the monthly flow of tariff revenue has risen fast: $17.4 billion in April, $23.9 billion in May, then $28 billion in June, and now the biggest number yet. Trump signs 11 trade deals ahead of new tariff rollout Trump also signed new trade deals with major U.S. partners in the days before the updated tariffs take effect. Agreements were reached with Japan, the European Union, and South Korea, three of America’s top trade allies. So far, 11 of the country’s 15 biggest trading partners have signed on to new trade arrangements under Trump’s leadership. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the White House expects total tariff revenue could top $300 billion. That money comes from U.S. businesses, which pay duties on imports directly to the government. But those costs don’t stay there. Companies usually raise prices on everyday goods to make up the difference, meaning consumers pay the price in the end. Meanwhile, consumer debt is piling up fast. New numbers from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Quarterly Report on Household Debt and Credit show that 3% of all U.S. consumer debt was at least 90 days late between April and June, the highest level since early 2020. That’s up from 2.8% in the first quarter, and the jump was mainly driven by student loans, where 12.9% of debt went seriously delinquent, the worst in 21 years of tracking. Consumer spending falls as delinquencies rise Consumer spending has dropped during the first six months of 2025. That’s before the newest round of tariffs even hits. And now, with high interest rates still in place and job growth slowing, American households are feeling more pressure. Joelle Scally, an economic policy adviser at the New York Fed, said in a press release, “This quarter’s flow of household debt into serious delinquency was mixed across debt types, with credit card and auto loans holding steady, student loans continuing to rise, and mortgages edging up slightly.” Overall household debt rose by $185 billion in Q2, bringing the total to $18.4 trillion. That’s a 30% increase from pre-pandemic levels, while the nation’s GDP has grown 38% during the same period. Even as Americans fall behind on payments, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said Wednesday that current delinquency levels “are not a problem.” He claimed that “essentially, you have a consumer that’s in good shape and is spending,” though “not at a rapid rate.” But other recent data show cracks in that narrative. Middle- and upper-income households are starting to miss payments on credit cards and auto loans, a trend that could threaten an economy increasingly powered by high-income spending. Mortgages, which make up the largest portion of household debt, are seeing a slight increase in late payments. But the biggest jump came from FHA loans, which usually go to first-time homebuyers and lower-income Americans. Delinquencies in that segment are rising faster than the rest. Researchers at the New York Fed pointed to tighter lending rules after the Global Financial Crisis as the reason mortgage credit quality has stayed strong. But they warned that risks are rising again as the housing market slows down following the pandemic-era price surge. KEY Difference Wire : the secret tool crypto projects use to get guaranteed media coverage

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Solana’s Recent Surge: Could a Breakout Above $172 Signal Further Gains?

🚀 Are You Chasing New Coins? Catch the newest crypto opportunities. Be the first to buy, be the first to win! Click here to discover new altcoins! Solana’s recent 5%

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Upcoming Executive Order Is Big News for Bitcoin, XRP, and Cryptos

A recent post from RIPPLE Eagle eye on X has stirred waves across the crypto landscape, revealing that President Donald Trump is preparing to sign a groundbreaking executive order. The order will reportedly penalize U.S. banks that refuse to work with Bitcoin, XRP, and other cryptocurrency companies, effectively ending years of discriminatory bank policies toward digital assets. A Direct Strike Against Banking Discrimination This executive order aims to halt what the White House calls “ideological financial censorship.” Banks that deny services to lawful crypto companies, allegedly based on political or risk-profile considerations, could face federal penalties. Institutions found guilty may be subject to hefty fines, regulatory action, and even criminal referrals, per emerging drafts of the order reviewed by credible outlets, including The Wall Street Journal. BREAKING: PRESIDENT TRUMP WILL SIGN AN EXECUTIVE ORDER TO PENALIZE BANKS THAT REFUSE TO WORK WITH BITCOIN AND #XRP CRYPTO COMPANIES. NO MORE BANK BLOCKADES. CRYPTO IS HERE TO STAY. pic.twitter.com/LCjJHqXMow — RIPPLE Eagle eye (@Ripple_Eagleeye) August 5, 2025 Trump’s decision is reportedly motivated partly by claims that banks like JPMorgan and Bank of America closed or restricted accounts tied to him and his supporters. However, the implications extend well beyond politics, impacting how banks treat an entire industry. Crypto Firms Could Gain Full Banking Access For Bitcoin, XRP, and the broader digital asset ecosystem, this move could be a seismic shift in how the U.S. banking sector engages with crypto. If signed, the order would force major banks to provide basic financial services to compliant crypto businesses, opening the door to deeper institutional involvement, enhanced liquidity, and wider adoption. The banking blockade—often seen in the denial of accounts or payment processing—has long been a thorn in the side of crypto firms. This new policy would place the burden on banks to justify any refusal of service, thereby protecting the financial rights of digital asset companies. XRP Poised to Benefit Most Among digital assets, XRP could emerge as a top beneficiary. Its issuer, Ripple, has been at the forefront of pushing for regulatory clarity and banking access. Earlier this year, XRP was included in the U.S. federal government’s Strategic Crypto Reserve —alongside Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Cardano—under another Trump executive directive aimed at bolstering the U.S. role in global digital finance. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse , a vocal advocate for XRP’s utility in cross-border finance, has also been credited with fostering deeper ties between Ripple and the current administration. With banking access restored, XRP’s real-world liquidity potential could finally be unlocked at scale. We are on twitter, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) July 15, 2023 Industry-Wide Impact and Market Optimism Market analysts say this could be the most crypto-positive move by any administration to date. Removing barriers between banks and crypto firms would boost investor confidence, draw in traditional financial players, and accelerate blockchain innovation. Some critics warn about the selective benefits of the order and whether it could unduly favor certain companies or tokens. Nonetheless, the industry at large views the move as a decisive step toward mainstream legitimacy. Final Thoughts RIPPLE Eagle Eye’s report appears consistent with official drafts under consideration. While the timeline for signing remains flexible, insiders suggest the order could be finalized within days. Once enacted, it will mark a historic shift in how the U.S. government views and treats cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin and XRP. This executive order isn’t just political. It’s a financial revolution in the making. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are urged to do in-depth research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Upcoming Executive Order Is Big News for Bitcoin, XRP, and Cryptos appeared first on Times Tabloid .

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The Perplexity Paradox: Why Defending AI Scraping Sparks a Crucial Web Crawling Debate

BitcoinWorld The Perplexity Paradox: Why Defending AI Scraping Sparks a Crucial Web Crawling Debate In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, where data is the new gold, a significant controversy has erupted, pitting web security giant Cloudflare against the AI search engine Perplexity. This isn’t just a technical dispute; it’s a fundamental debate about who controls access to information on the open web and how AI agents should behave. For anyone navigating the decentralized and data-intensive world of cryptocurrency, understanding the nuances of AI scraping and web access protocols is paramount, as it directly impacts the flow of information and the economic models of online platforms. Unpacking the Cloudflare Perplexity Clash The core of the recent dispute emerged when Cloudflare accused Perplexity of stealthily scraping websites, seemingly disregarding established blocking methods. Cloudflare’s test case was meticulously designed: a new website with a fresh domain, explicitly configured with a Robots.txt protocol file to block Perplexity’s known AI crawling bots. Despite these clear directives, when asked about the website’s content, Perplexity provided an answer. Cloudflare researchers discovered the AI search engine allegedly used a ‘generic browser intended to impersonate Google Chrome on macOS’ to bypass the blocks. Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince did not mince words, posting his findings on X (formerly Twitter) and stating, ‘Some supposedly ‘reputable’ AI companies act more like North Korean hackers. Time to name, shame, and hard block them.’ This strong condemnation immediately ignited a heated debate across tech communities. The Core Debate: AI Agents vs. Traditional Web Crawling Perplexity’s defenders, particularly on platforms like X and Hacker News, quickly rallied, arguing that Cloudflare’s assessment was overly harsh. Their central argument hinges on a critical distinction: is an AI accessing a public website on behalf of its user equivalent to a human making the same request, or is it a bot? One Hacker News user articulated this by asking, ‘If I as a human request a website, then I should be shown the content, why would the LLM accessing the website on my behalf be in a different legal category as my Firefox web browser?’ Perplexity itself weighed in, initially denying the bots were theirs and calling Cloudflare’s blog post a ‘sales pitch.’ Later, Perplexity published its own blog post, claiming the behavior stemmed from a third-party service it occasionally uses. Their defense echoed their online supporters: ‘The difference between automated crawling and user-driven fetching isn’t just technical — it’s about who gets to access information on the open web.’ This argument highlights the evolving nature of web crawling . Traditionally, bots were either ‘good’ (like Googlebot, which indexed content to send traffic) or ‘bad’ (malicious scrapers, spammers). Websites used Robots.txt protocol and other security measures to differentiate and control access. However, the rise of sophisticated AI agents blurs these lines, posing a significant challenge to existing web governance. The Rising Tide of AI Scraping and its Implications The debate comes at a pivotal time when bot activity is reshaping the internet. According to Imperva’s recent ‘Bad Bot Report,’ bot activity now outstrips human activity online, with AI traffic accounting for over 50%. A significant portion of this is from large language models (LLMs) engaged in data collection. While not all AI traffic is malicious, the report also found that malicious bots make up 37% of all internet traffic, encompassing everything from persistent AI scraping to unauthorized login attempts. Historically, websites had a clear incentive to cooperate with ‘good’ bots like Googlebot, guiding them via Robots.txt protocol , because indexing led to traffic and potential revenue. Now, LLMs are increasingly ‘eating’ that traffic. Gartner predicts that search engine volume could drop by 25% by 2026. This shift creates a dilemma for website owners: Loss of Direct Traffic: If users get answers directly from AI agents, they might not click through to the original website, reducing ad revenue and engagement. Economic Disruption: Websites invest heavily in creating content. If AI agents consume this content without driving traffic back, the economic model for content creation becomes unsustainable. Data Control: Who owns the data and who has the right to access it for AI training or user-driven queries remains a contentious issue. Navigating the Future of Web Access: AI Agents and Beyond Cloudflare’s stance is that leading AI companies, such as OpenAI, follow best practices by respecting Robots.txt protocol and not attempting to evade network-level blocks. Matthew Prince specifically mentioned OpenAI’s use of ‘Web Bot Auth,’ a Cloudflare-supported open standard being developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force. This standard aims to create a cryptographic method for identifying AI agent web requests, offering a potential solution to distinguish legitimate AI activity from malicious or unwanted scraping. The economic implications of this debate are profound. While humans currently tend to click website links from LLMs at the point they are most valuable (e.g., ready to transact), the widespread adoption of AI agents for tasks like booking travel or shopping could change this. Would websites inadvertently hurt their business interests by blocking these agents? The online debate captured this perfectly: ‘I WANT perplexity to visit any public content on my behalf when I give it a request/task!’ wrote one person. ‘What if the site owners don’t want it? they just want you [to] directly visit the home, see their stuff,’ argued another, highlighting the content creator’s perspective. ‘This is why I can’t see ‘agentic browsing’ really working — much harder problem than people think. Most website owners will just block,’ a third predicted, pointing to the practical challenges. This ongoing discussion between Cloudflare Perplexity , the broader tech community, and website owners underscores a fundamental tension: the desire for open access to information versus the need for content creators to protect their intellectual property and economic models. As AI agents become more sophisticated and ubiquitous, the internet’s established norms for web crawling and data access are being challenged, demanding new protocols and a clearer understanding of digital ethics. A Pivotal Moment for Web Governance The Cloudflare-Perplexity incident is more than just a corporate spat; it’s a flashpoint in the broader evolution of the internet. It forces us to confront difficult questions about the nature of web access, the role of AI in information dissemination, and the economic viability of content creation in an AI-driven world. The resolution of this debate will likely shape how AI interacts with the web for years to come, impacting everything from search engines to personal AI assistants and the very fabric of online commerce. Finding a balance between innovation, open access, and fair compensation for content creators will be the crucial challenge ahead. To learn more about the latest AI market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping AI models features. This post The Perplexity Paradox: Why Defending AI Scraping Sparks a Crucial Web Crawling Debate first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

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Ripple Research: Traditional Finance Invests $100B in Blockchain from 2020-2024

Banks invested over $100B in blockchain infrastructure from 2020 to 2024. 65% of banks explore digital asset storage, focusing on stablecoins and tokenized RWAs. Emerging markets like UAE and India lead growth, outpacing US and Europe adoption. Traditional financial institutions have invested more than $100 billion in blockchain infrastructure between 2020 and 2024, according to a joint study by Ripple, CB Insights, and the UK Centre for Blockchain Technologies (UK CBT) titled “Banking on Digital Assets.” The report analyzed more than 10,000 blockchain deals and surveyed over 1,800 financial institution executives worldwide. According to the report, banks are increasing investments in digital assets despite regulatory uncertainty and market volatility. Between 2020 and 2024, banks participated in 345 blockchain-related deals. The greatest interest was in payment infrastructure, followed by cryptocurrency storage, tokenization, and currency transactions on the blockchain. Additionally, approximately 25% of investments targeted infrastructure supporting settlements and digital asset issuance. Over 90% of surveyed executives believe blockchain and digital assets will have a significant or massive impact on the financial sector by 2028. Among banking respondents, 65% are actively exploring digital asset storage options, with more than half citing stablecoins and tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) as priorities. The report cites examples of new technology implementation such as HSBC's tokenized gold platform, Goldman Sachs' GS DAP blockchain settlement tool, and Japanese bank SBI’s developments in quantum-resistant digital currency. However, consumer digital assets are not a primary focus for most banks, with less than 20% of respondents saying they offer crypto trading or wallets for retail clients. The report emphasized that changes are more infrastructural than speculative. By investing in blockchain, banks aim to modernize international payments, optimize balance sheet management, and reduce reliance on legacy systems. Ripple indicates that “the tokenization of real assets is moving into the implementation phase.” While regulatory clarity is still lacking in many countries, more than two-thirds of surveyed banks expect to launch digital asset initiatives within the next three years. These include pilot projects with tokenized bonds and infrastructure for settlements using CBDCs (central bank digital currencies) and private stablecoins. Crypto market participants are investing in tokenized treasury products, with McKinsey estimating their potential at $2 trillion. Blockchain investment from traditional finance peaked after the FTX collapse in Q1 2024. The biggest growth has been seen in emerging markets, particularly the UAE, India, and Singapore, which are outpacing the US and Europe in adoption rates. Analysts note that the next wave of institutional adoption of digital assets will be driven not by hype or retail fever but by a gradual transformation of the global financial infrastructure.

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