The crypto market cap just hit $2.69T—why are investors pulling funds from ETFs despite this growth?
Europe appears to be leading the way in the financial industry’s transition to crypto. Institutions throughout Europe are responding to the United States’ crackdown on crypto-friendly banks by enhancing their efforts to foster a more hospitable environment for digital assets. According to recent data, Europe is now home to over 50 institutions that provide crypto services, a figure that surpasses that of both Asia and North America. Regulations Provide A Clearer Path The regulatory clarity of Europe is a significant factor contributing to its increasing involvement in crypto banking. With the implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework by the European Union, enterprises involved in cryptocurrencies are subject to clear laws. This gives organizations the confidence to offer services without worrying about unforeseen legal changes. On the other hand, the US has taken a different approach. The recent closures of Silvergate Bank and Signature Bank, two banks known for their backing of cryptocurrency companies, have left a hole in the American market. Currently, many US-based cryptocurrency companies are looking to other nations for financial solutions. Europe is leading the world in terms of crypto-friendly banks While the U.S. OCC just issued guidance allowing banks to engage in crypto services such as custody or stablecoin services, European banks are already years ahead. BBVA Spain is the latest example, announcing… pic.twitter.com/2FRr38FA2k — Patrick Hansen (@paddi_hansen) March 11, 2025 Europe is leading the globe in terms of crypto-friendly banks, said Patrick Hansen, EU Strategy and Policy Advisor at Circle, in a recent X post. Europe has quietly established itself as the unchallenged leader in the digital currency market , while major powers like the United States try to gain a firm presence in the field through banking partnerships. Numbers Show Europe Pulling Ahead Data from Coincub indicates that there is an increasing level of division. Asia has only 24 banks that support Bitcoin and other related assets, while Europe has 55 banks that do. As regulatory pressures intensify, North America, which was previously a hub for Bitcoin-friendly banks, is now lagging behind. Lack of trustworthy banking partners is making US crypto companies struggle with capital management and payment processing. Some have already started moving their business to areas with better laws. Europe’s approach, stressing control over limitation, is proving appealing. Traditional Institutions Get Involved Established financial institutions in Europe are also getting into the mix. A major player in the financial markets, Deutsche Boerse’s Clearstream is now developing services for bitcoin custody and settlement. This move indicates that traditional financial institutions are looking to serve institutional investors since they understand the possibilities of digital assets. Meanwhile, American institutions continue to exhibit caution. Due to regulatory scrutiny, numerous individuals are refraining from investing in digital currency. The result? A growing disparity between the United States and Europe in terms of the number of financial institutions that are willing to provide services to the industry. The Road Ahead For Europe Europe is becoming a center for digital banking as more institutions get involved and regulations become clearer. On the other hand, the US has yet to lay down a clear framework on how banks should deal with digital assets. If policies don’t change, American companies may continue to be behind their European competitors. Featured image from Gemini Imagen, chart from TradingView
An analyst known for nailing the end of the 2021 crypto cycle believes that Bitcoin’s drop below $80,000 is designed to lure BTC bears into thinking that the bull market is over. Pseudonymous analyst Capo tells his 942,200 followers on the social media platform X that he thinks Bitcoin is now process of carving a mid-bull cycle bottom following a substantial correction from its all-time high of around $110,000. According to the trader, BTC’s plummet to a 2025 low of $76,000 is a bear trap or a false breakdown that would lead to a sharp bullish reversal with altcoins leading the charge. “Bear trap went lower than expected, but the local bottom should be in or very close. A strong relief bounce is likely over the next few days, with altcoins expected to outperform Bitcoin.” On the instant messaging platform Telegram, Capo says that he’s starting to see signs of strength for Bitcoin and altcoins in the lower time frames. “Ideally, BTC needs to reclaim $84,000 and ETH $2,000 for bullish continuation… Most altcoins are hitting major support after a strong correction. Many people are panic selling at these levels. Others are waiting for lower prices. Fundings are very negative, confirming the bearish sentiment. There’s a lot of liquidity to the upside.” At time of writing, Bitcoin is trading for $82,765 and Ethereum ( ETH ) is worth $1,926. To support his bullish stance on altcoins, Capo says he’s closely watching the TOTAL2 chart, an alt index that tracks the market cap of all crypto assets excluding Bitcoin and stablecoins. The trader shares a chart suggesting that TOTAL2 has successfully retested a crucial support area at $971 billion. Source: Capo/Telegram A bullish TOTAL2 chart indicates that the altcoin market is rallying. At time of writing, TOTAL2 is worth $1 trillion after dropping to a 2025 low of $974 billion. Don't Miss a Beat – Subscribe to get email alerts delivered directly to your inbox Check Price Action Follow us on X , Facebook and Telegram Surf The Daily Hodl Mix 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 losses 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 Analyst That Called 2021 Crypto Collapse Predicts Relief Bounce With Altcoins Outperforming Bitcoin appeared first on The Daily Hodl .
On March 13th, COINOTAG News reported significant developments regarding Solana’s SIMD-0228 proposal, which is currently experiencing varying levels of support within the community. According to on-chain data, the support rate
European regulators are closely examining the role of OKX in laundering funds from a massive cyber heist on Bybit. National regulatory bodies across the European Union deliberated on the issue during a meeting led by the European Securities and Markets Authority’s (ESMA) Digital Finance Standing Committee on March 6. OKX Faces Intense Scrutiny The focus of the inquiry is OKX’s Web3 service, which happens to be a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform and self-custodial wallet that facilitates access to multiple blockchains and exchanges. Reports indicate that hackers, allegedly tied to North Korea, funneled approximately $100 million in stolen cryptocurrency through this platform. Bloomberg report suggests that authorities are now assessing whether OKX’s Web3 service falls under the jurisdiction of the EU’s newly implemented Markets in Cryptoassets (MiCA) regulation, which aims to oversee digital asset providers and ensure compliance with financial security measures. Some regulators, particularly from Austria and Croatia, argued that OKX’s Web3 service should be subject to MiCA’s regulatory framework despite fully decentralized platforms being exempt under the rules that came into force in late 2024. A key point of discussion at the meeting was whether the platform’s integration into OKX’s main website and its connection to an OKX Singapore entity constituted grounds for enforcement under MiCA. A regulatory presentation at the meeting reportedly outlined how OKX’s user interface enables token swaps and wallet connections directly through its website, suggesting centralized oversight rather than a purely decentralized model. Additionally, officials raised concerns about potential violations of sanctions against North Korea, given the laundering activities linked to the attack. The outcome of this regulatory scrutiny could lead to penalties for the crypto and further discussions on the application of EU financial laws to similar platforms. OKX Responds OKX has firmly rejected claims, calling the Bloomberg report misleading. The exchange clarified that its Web3 wallet and swap features function similarly to those of other major crypto platforms, and serve as aggregators to improve user efficiency rather than facilitating illicit transactions. According to OKX, its immediate response to the Bybit breach included freezing related funds on its centralized exchange and introducing a new tool to detect and block hacker-linked addresses from accessing its decentralized exchange or wallet services. The company expressed disappointment over Bybit’s statements and argued that they contributed to misinformation by wrongly implying an investigation into OKX. It even went on to emphasize that regulatory scrutiny is not directed at its operations but rather stems from broader industry discussions on decentralized finance regulations. Additionally, OKX suggested that the real issue lies in Bybit’s security shortcomings, rather than any wrongdoing on its part. The exchange strongly refuted what it described as false claims that misrepresented its role in the aftermath of the cyberattack. The post EU Regulators Probe OKX’s Web3 Role in Bybit Crypto Laundering Case appeared first on CryptoPotato .
The Ripple lawsuit against the SEC remains unresolved with multiple potential outcomes. Experts predict penalties could remain while restrictions might be lifted. Continue Reading: Ripple vs. SEC: The Ongoing Legal Battle Sparks Varied Outcomes The post Ripple vs. SEC: The Ongoing Legal Battle Sparks Varied Outcomes appeared first on COINTURK NEWS .
The Bolivian state energy company, Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales Bolivianos (YPFB) has announced plans to make energy imports into the country with cryptocurrency as there is a current shortage of dollars within the country. This shortage is due to the dwindling exports of natural gases over the years. Up until June 2024, Bolivia’s central bank, Banco Central de Bolivia had a ban placed on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. At the time, the bank cited Bolivia’s struggling economy as the reason for the ban. It also stated that the ban would align the country with Latin American crypto regulations. The ban was lifted for a simpler reason — the global acceptance of cryptocurrencies. Other Latin American countries such as El Salvador, Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico had adopted the use of cryptocurrencies before Bolivia jumped on the wagon. With its economy still struggling and the reduction in exports, the country is again turning to cryptocurrency as a way out. Cryptocurrency for energy According to Reuters , a spokesperson for the state-run energy firm YPFB revealed that a system to use cryptocurrency to purchase fuel imports has been put in place. The energy firm also said that it had received government approval to use digital assets to help meet demand. Despite the government’s approval, YPFB has not yet used digital currency to purchase energy imports, but it intends to do so, according to a government spokesperson. Bolivia is catching up to other countries within South America with its increased acceptance and adoption of cryptocurrency and digital assets. Countries such as El Salvador and Argentina are integrating digital assets into their financial systems. Argentina’s state-owned energy firm, YPF, ventured into crypto mining operations in 2022 and has been supplying power for mining activities while making plans to further expand its crypto mining operations. Brazil established a law regulating digital assets in December 2022, and it came into effect in June 2023. The aim of the regulation was to legalize crypto as a payment method. Bolivia fuel shortages Bolivia’s economy is largely dependent on its vast natural resources. The country’s primary export is natural gas, but it also exports gold, zinc, and silver among other commodities. Bolivia’s natural gas exports were valued at $2.05B in 2023 and while this might sound like an impressive amount, those figures are a whopping 31% less than the value of Bolivia’s natural gas exports from the previous year which was valued at approximately $2.97B. Following the descending trend, the value of natural gas exports from Bolivia in 2021 was also higher than that of 2022. The exports of natural gas from Bolivia are typically imported by Argentina and Brazil. Over the years, the country has been experiencing a significant decline in its exports of natural gas, and as a result, has witnessed a decrease in its foreign currency reserves. This shortage of dollars has rendered the country incapable of regular function as it uses the US dollar to import goods, fuel included. The lack of dollars led to a fuel crisis in the country, and now, long lines at gas stations and scattered protests are becoming a norm. Bolivia functioned as a net energy exporter due to its large reserves of gas. The country also utilized its natural resources domestically. However, with the diminishing production, it has become reliant on imports to meet the country’s energy consumption needs. Cryptopolitan Academy: Coming Soon - A New Way to Earn Passive Income with DeFi in 2025. Learn More
The Lazarus Group, North Korea’s infamous hacking unit, has carried out new cyberattacks in cryptocurrency with an increasing focus on developers. Security researchers have discovered over the last few months that the group has been sabotaging malicious npm packages that steal credentials, exfiltrate cryptocurrency wallet data, and create a persistent backdoor in development environments. It marks a major escalation in their years-long cyberwar, which has already witnessed some of the biggest crypto heists in history. According to a new investigation by the Socket Research Team , a branch of Lazarus Group has penetrated the npm repository, one of the most popular package managers for JavaScript developers. The hackers then used typosquatting techniques to publish malicious versions of popular npm packages, deceiving unsuspecting developers into downloading the programs. The packages include is-buffer-validator, yoojae-validator, event-handle-package, array-empty-validator, react-event-dependency, and auth-validator. When executed, the compromised packages install BeaverTail malware. This “advanced” tool can steal login credentials, search through browser files for saved passwords and dump files from cryptocurrency wallets, such as Solana and Exodus. Security researchers noted that the stolen data were sent to the hardcoded command-and-control (C2) server, a common modus operandi employed by the Lazarus Group to relay confidential data back to their actors. Its purpose is to steal and transmit compromised data without being detected, and it was particularly threatening in the world of developers building financial and blockchain applications, says Kirill Boychenko, a threat intelligence analyst at Socket Security. Lazarus launched an offensive against Bybit, stealing nearly $1.46 billion In addition to these supply chain attacks, Lazarus Group has also been tied to one of the biggest cryptocurrency thefts on record. Its first action is suspected to have occurred on February 21, 2025, when group-linked hackers breached Bybit, one of the world’s biggest crypto exchanges, making off with an estimated $1.46 billion in crypto assets. The attack was extremely sophisticated and was allegedly launched from a compromised device of a Safe{Wallet} employee, a Bybit technology partner. Hackers leveraged a vulnerability in the infrastructure of Bybit’s Ethereum wallet and altered smart contract logic to redirect funds to their wallets. Although Bybit addressed the problem immediately, a statement from CEO Ben Zhou revealed that 20% of the stolen money had already been laundered via mixing services and was untraceable. This latest series of attacks is part of North Korea’s broader effort to evade international sanctions against it by stealing and laundering cryptocurrency. According to a 2024 United Nations report, North Korean cybercriminals were responsible for over 35% of global cryptocurrency thefts over the past year, accumulating over $1 billion in stolen assets. Lazarus Group is not just a cybercrime syndicate but also a geopolitics threat since stolen money is reportedly directly funnelled into the nation’s nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. Such Lazarus Group attacks have also progressed over the years, from direct exchange hacks to supply chain attacks and even developer and software repository attacks. By adding backdoors to open-source platforms like npm, PyPI, and GitHub, the group expands its potential attack range to many systems, eliminating the need to hack directly into cryptocurrency exchanges. Security experts are calling for stricter protections for crypto developers Noting these growing risks, cyber specialists are pushing for stricter security for developers and crypto users and protection from hackers. One such best practice is verifying the realness of npm packages before installation because typosquatting continues to be one of the most common methods cyber criminals use. Socket AI Scanner also tracks anomalies in your software dependencies or npm audit, which informs you whether any compromised packages are in use and allows you to remove them from your application before they can do any real damage. The guide recommends that users and developers take the initiative to protect themselves by enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) for exchange wallets, developer platforms like GitHub, and other accounts. Network monitoring is now regarded as the first line of defence as the compromised system will usually send messages back to an external command and control (C2) server, which then uploads the malicious updates on the infected computer. Blocking illegitimate outbound traffic can cut hackers’ access to this stolen data. Bybit launches recovery bounty as crypto security battle heats up Following the Bybit hack, the exchange also initiated a Recovery Bounty Program, rewarding anyone who helps find the stolen assets. The program allows for rewards of up to 10% of the money recovered. At the same time, the larger crypto ecosystem is busy ramping up security practices and alerting developers to protect against the same practices that can lead down this threatening path. But as Lazarus Group’s tactics advance ever more quickly, network defenders say the war on crypto has only just begun. Cryptopolitan Academy: Tired of market swings? Learn how DeFi can help you build steady passive income. 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Texas is ramping up its crypto adoption, with a new bill allowing up to $250 million in public funds to be invested—solidifying its leadership in digital assets. Texas Bill Paves Way for $250M Crypto Investment The U.S. state of Texas is actively pursuing legislation to integrate bitcoin into its financial framework, with multiple bills aimed
Get ready for a potentially seismic shift in the crypto landscape! Coinbase, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges, has just dropped a bombshell announcement. Buckle up, because they’re listing Aethir (ATH)! This news, revealed on X, has sent ripples of excitement throughout the crypto community. Mark your calendars for March 13th at 9:00 a.m. (PT) – that’s when the Coinbase listing ATH goes live. But what exactly is Aethir, and why is this listing such a big deal? Let’s dive into the details. What is Aethir and the Buzz Around ATH? Aethir is not just another cryptocurrency project; it’s a platform focused on something truly groundbreaking: decentralized GPU usage. In a world increasingly reliant on processing power for everything from AI to gaming, Aethir is stepping in to democratize access to GPUs. Imagine a future where GPU resources are readily available and distributed, rather than concentrated in the hands of a few. That’s the vision Aethir is working towards. The ATH token is the lifeblood of this ecosystem. Think of it as the fuel that powers the Aethir network. It serves as the primary medium of exchange within the Aethir ecosystem, facilitating transactions and incentivizing participation. As the platform grows, the utility of the ATH token is expected to increase, making this Coinbase listing ATH announcement even more significant. Why is the Coinbase Listing ATH a Game Changer? Coinbase listing ATH is more than just adding another token to a crypto exchange. It’s a validation and a massive leap forward for Aethir and the concept of decentralized GPUs. Here’s why this listing is generating so much excitement: Increased Visibility and Accessibility: Coinbase is a giant in the crypto world, known for its user-friendly platform and broad reach. Listing ATH on Coinbase instantly exposes Aethir to millions of potential users and investors who may not have been aware of the project before. This increased visibility is crucial for adoption and growth. Enhanced Liquidity: A listing on a major exchange like Coinbase typically leads to a significant boost in liquidity. This means it will be easier to buy and sell ATH tokens, making it more attractive for traders and investors. Higher liquidity can also contribute to price stability and reduce volatility. Credibility and Trust: Coinbase has a rigorous vetting process for listing new tokens. Their decision to list ATH signals a level of confidence in the project’s legitimacy, technology, and potential. This endorsement can significantly enhance Aethir’s credibility within the often skeptical crypto space. Mainstream Adoption of Decentralized GPUs: By listing ATH, Coinbase is indirectly promoting the concept of decentralized GPUs to a mainstream audience. This can accelerate the adoption of this innovative technology and pave the way for a more distributed and accessible computing future. Decentralized GPUs: Unlocking the Power of Distributed Computing The concept of decentralized GPUs might sound technical, but its implications are far-reaching. Here’s a simplified look at why decentralized GPUs are so important: Democratizing Access to Computing Power: Currently, access to high-performance GPUs is often limited and expensive. Decentralized GPU networks aim to break down these barriers, making powerful computing resources available to anyone, anywhere. This is especially beneficial for developers, researchers, and artists who require significant processing power but may not have the resources to acquire and maintain expensive hardware. Cost Efficiency: By leveraging a distributed network of GPUs, Aethir can potentially offer more cost-effective computing solutions compared to traditional centralized providers. Users can tap into unused GPU capacity, leading to optimized resource utilization and reduced costs. Enhanced Scalability and Resilience: Decentralized networks are inherently more scalable and resilient. If one part of the network experiences issues, others can continue to operate, ensuring continuous service. This distributed nature makes decentralized GPU networks less vulnerable to single points of failure and more adaptable to fluctuating demand. Innovation and New Use Cases: Easier and cheaper access to GPU power can spur innovation across various industries. From AI and machine learning to advanced graphics rendering and scientific simulations, decentralized GPUs can unlock new possibilities and accelerate technological advancements. Navigating the Coinbase Listing ATH: What You Need to Know The Coinbase listing ATH is an exciting development, but it’s essential to approach it with informed awareness. Here are a few actionable insights to consider: Aspect Consideration Price Volatility Listings on major exchanges often lead to increased price volatility, especially in the short term. Be prepared for potential price swings and manage your risk accordingly. Market Sentiment Keep an eye on market sentiment and news surrounding Aethir and the Coinbase listing ATH . Social media, crypto news outlets, and community forums can provide valuable insights into market perception. Long-Term Potential While short-term price action is important, consider the long-term potential of Aethir and decentralized GPUs. Evaluate the project’s fundamentals, team, roadmap, and the overall market for decentralized computing. DYOR (Do Your Own Research) Never invest blindly. Conduct thorough research on Aethir, understand its technology, tokenomics, and the risks involved before making any investment decisions. The Coinbase listing ATH is just one piece of the puzzle. The Road Ahead for Aethir and Decentralized GPUs The Coinbase listing ATH marks a pivotal moment for Aethir and the broader decentralized GPU ecosystem. It’s a strong signal that decentralized computing is gaining traction and recognition within the mainstream crypto world. While challenges and further developments are inevitable, this listing represents a significant step towards a future where computing power is more accessible, affordable, and democratized. Keep an eye on Aethir and the ATH token – this journey is just beginning! To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping decentralized finance and crypto adoption.