Cryptocurrencies Archives | Page 133 of 158

21Shares calls for unified EU crypto regulations

21Shares, a leading issuer of crypto exchange-traded products (ETPs), has called on the European Union to establish a unified regulatory framework for incorporating cryptocurrencies into investment products. The firm highlighted the current inconsistencies across member states, where countries like Germany and Malta allow crypto in UCITS funds, while others, such as Luxembourg and Ireland, do not.

A unified regulatory approach, 21Shares argues, would not only provide much-needed clarity for investors but also align Europe with other global markets, including the US and Hong Kong. By establishing clear guidelines, retail and institutional investors alike could benefit from greater diversification opportunities, all within a secure, regulated environment.

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has already begun reviewing feedback on the inclusion of crypto assets in UCITS funds, with a decision expected to follow. 21Shares, which currently offers over 40 ETPs, believes this move would pave the way for greater access to digital assets in a regulated market.

Bahrain’s first bitcoin fund targets GCC investors

The National Bank of Bahrain has launched its first bitcoin investment fund aimed at institutional investors in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Developed in partnership with ARP Digital, the fund allows investors to gain exposure to bitcoin while ensuring full protection against potential losses, albeit with a cap on possible gains.

Abdulla Kanoo, co-founder of ARP Digital, described the collaboration with NBB as a potential game-changer for the regional market. By combining ARP Digital’s expertise in digital assets with NBB’s strong presence in the financial sector, they have created a secure investment product for those looking to explore bitcoin.

Bahrain’s efforts to cultivate a crypto-friendly environment have attracted major players like Binance and Crypto.com, while the UAE is also advancing its regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. In 2023, Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority issued comprehensive rules to facilitate Web3 firms operating in the region.

According to Chainalysis, the MENA region recorded $338.7 billion in crypto transactions between July 2023 and June 2024, primarily driven by institutional investors. With the new fund, NBB provides a promising opportunity for regional investors to safely engage with bitcoin in a well-regulated landscape.

Europe mulls blockchain for unified digital assets

A European Central Bank official has suggested the creation of a ‘European ledger,’ a blockchain platform that could bring together digital assets and money across the continent. This proposed platform, referred to as a digital capital markets union, would tackle Europe’s fragmented financial systems and outdated regulations, creating a more efficient environment for digital assets.

According to Piero Cipollone, an ECB executive board member, many European banks are already experimenting with distributed ledger technology (DLT), which could lead to greater financial integration. However, non-interoperable systems between countries continue to create fragmented liquidity. A unified platform could bring significant benefits, including cost reductions and round-the-clock operations, benefiting both investors and central banks.

Despite the advantages, concerns remain that a European ledger could stifle financial innovation. Cipollone noted that traditional finance might require the flexibility provided by competing DLT platforms to flourish. As discussions continue, the ECB is exploring ways to settle DLT transactions using central bank money, while seeking long-term solutions to avoid inefficiencies.

El Salvador: Blueprint for the bitcoin economy

On 7 September 2021, El Salvador became the first country in the world to adopt bitcoin as legal tender, sparking global discussions about the role of cryptocurrencies in national economies. This groundbreaking decision transformed El Salvador into a beacon for financial innovation as other nations began to closely monitor its bold experiment. Initially seen as a monetary gamble, El Salvador’s decision has evolved into a strategy with far-reaching implications, both domestically and internationally. While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other financial institutions have raised concerns about potential risks, El Salvador’s commitment to cryptocurrency adoption has set a precedent by reshaping global economic systems.

From experiment to national strategy

When El Salvador made bitcoin legal tender, it was an ambitious experiment aimed at solving several economic challenges. The country, reliant on remittances and with a significant part of its population unbanked, saw cryptocurrency as a way to promote financial inclusion. Today, with 5,748.8 bitcoins held in national reserves, El Salvador’s leadership continues to buy bitcoin, signalling confidence in the long-term potential of the digital asset. In this way, the initial idea of bitcoin adoption has transformed from a simple test into a cornerstone of the nation’s financial strategy. El Salvador is now laying the foundation for broader economic development by positioning itself as a crypto-friendly environment.

Economic impact: benefits and challenges

El Salvador’s embrace of bitcoin has left a significant mark on its economy, though it has not been without its challenges. One of the major benefits has been the ability to streamline remittances, allowing Salvadorians abroad (of which there are many in emigration) to send money home using bitcoin, cutting out the traditional intermediaries and lowering fees. This move has made remittances faster, more affordable, and more accessible.

The country has also witnessed a surge in foreign investment, as businesses interested in cryptocurrency see El Salvador as an attractive hub. Crypto enthusiasts and digital nomads have flocked to the country, boosting tourism and putting El Salvador on the global map as a bitcoin-friendly destination.

Moreover, El Salvador’s innovation goes beyond adopting bitcoin as legal tender; it has also ventured into the creation of bitcoin bonds and infrastructure projects like ‘Bitcoin City.’ President Nayib Bukele’s vision for Bitcoin City includes a tax-free, crypto-friendly zone designed to attract foreign investment. The city, with a projected USD $1.6 billion investment, will feature modern infrastructure and create an environment conducive to the growth of blockchain and cryptocurrency businesses. If successful, Bitcoin City could become a global hub for digital finance, further cementing El Salvador’s position at the forefront of this financial revolution.

However, bitcoin volatility remains a persistent issue. Critics argue that heavy reliance on such a fluctuating asset could jeopardise financial stability. Unpredictable price swings in the crypto market pose a risk, potentially leading to instability in the national economy. While El Salvador continues to bet on bitcoin’s long-term success, these challenges highlight the need to carefully navigate the balancing act between innovation and economic resilience.

Educating for a bitcoin future

One of the latest initiatives El Salvador has undertaken is its Bitcoin certification programme. Spearheaded by the National Bitcoin Office (ONBTC), the programme aims to educate 80,000 government employees on the intricacies of bitcoin and blockchain technology. This strategic move underscores the nation’s commitment to integrating bitcoin into its broader governance structure.

By equipping civil servants with essential knowledge, El Salvador ensures that bitcoin adoption is not just a top-down policy but becomes deeply embedded in the daily functioning of the state. Beyond focusing on external performance, El Salvador is working to seed crypto into the core of its state organisations, ensuring that government employees fully understand the nature of cryptocurrency and not merely reproduce its use. This educational initiative is also expected to create a ripple effect across other sectors, solidifying El Salvador’s place as a leader in the global crypto space.

Global influence and partnerships

El Salvador’s progressive approach to cryptocurrency is beginning to influence other nations. Argentina, for example, has recently started collaborating with El Salvador to learn from its experience. Argentina’s pro-crypto president, Javier Milei, has shown interest in using cryptocurrencies to stabilise the country’s economy. This collaboration is a testament to the growing recognition of El Salvador’s pioneering role in this space. As more countries begin to explore cryptocurrency adoption, El Salvador’s approach provides a practical case study, proving that integrating digital assets into a national economy can have tangible benefits.

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Regulatory challenges and criticism

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Bitcoin adoption, El Salvador has faced significant criticism from international organisations. The IMF has been particularly vocal, warning that the adoption of cryptocurrency as legal tender poses risks to financial stability, consumer protection, and market integrity. These warnings highlight the regulatory challenges El Salvador faces, especially when dealing with global institutions that remain sceptical of digital currencies. However, the country has responded by reinforcing its regulatory frameworks and increasing transparency around its bitcoin activities. While the road is not without obstacles, El Salvador’s approach showcases a willingness to navigate these complexities and maintain its position as a leader in the crypto space.

El Salvador’s Chivo wallet project

One of the most significant elements of El Salvador’s bitcoin adoption is the introduction of the Chivo wallet, which plays a pivotal role in promoting financial inclusion. Chivo, the government-backed digital wallet, allows Salvadorians to easily access and use bitcoin, providing a crucial gateway to financial services for those previously excluded from the traditional banking system.

To help citizens become familiar with the cryptocurrency, the government offered USD $30 worth of bitcoin to each individual through the Chivo wallet, the country’s digital currency platform. However, public reception was mixed, with an August 2021 poll indicating that 70% of respondents opposed the initiative, and only 15% expressed confidence in bitcoin. Concerns about volatility also led to protests in San Salvador, as many feared the potential for drastic price fluctuations.

The Chivo wallet, available on mobile devices, empowers even the unbanked population to participate in the digital economy by enabling seamless transactions and easy access to remittances sent from abroad. By leveraging this digital wallet project, El Salvador has not only embraced crypto but has also laid the foundation for a more inclusive financial ecosystem. This approach serves as a model for other developing nations, showing how the integration of a government-supported crypto platform can help bypass traditional banking barriers, delivering financial tools to millions and boosting both individual economic prospects and national economies.

The broader global implications

El Salvador’s bold experiment is already making waves across the world. The Central African Republic has followed in its footsteps, adopting bitcoin as legal tender. As other nations watch closely, it is becoming clear that El Salvador’s approach could inspire a global movement towards cryptocurrency-driven economies. For countries struggling with inflation, financial exclusion, or dependence on foreign currencies, bitcoin adoption represents an alternative path. The world sees that cryptocurrency is not just a speculative asset—it can be a powerful tool for economic development and innovation.

A leader in the new digital financial order

El Salvador’s decision to adopt bitcoin as legal tender has positioned the country at the forefront of a financial revolution. What started as a daring experiment has blossomed into a comprehensive national strategy with global implications. Despite the challenges, including market volatility and regulatory pushback, El Salvador’s proactive approach sets a powerful and inspiring example for other countries. By embracing cryptocurrency from the deepest level of society, from education to infrastructure, El Salvador is showing the world that digital currencies can drive economic progress. As more nations observe its success, the small Central American nation may just be paving a historical way for global financial transformation.

Indian crypto exchange faces investigation after $235 million crypto hack

India’s Financial Intelligence Unit is investigating the Indian cryptocurrency exchange WazirX following a significant cyberattack that resulted in the theft of $235 million. The exchange is cooperating with government agencies and has provided authorities with extensive server logs and transaction data related to the incident, which occurred in July. Although no physical assets have been seized, WazirX is actively engaging with regulatory bodies to understand the broader implications of the hack on the unregulated crypto sector.

In a bid to enhance transparency, WazirX plans to publicly disclose wallet addresses through court affidavits and has committed to addressing user concerns. The exchange aims to establish a 10-member committee of creditors by 9 October to assist in its restructuring efforts, to return 52-55% of the remaining crypto assets to affected clients within six months.

Additionally, WazirX’s parent company, Zettai, is in discussions with 11 potential partners to explore capital injections and profit-sharing strategies that could aid in user recoveries. Following the hack, WazirX has sought a Scheme of Arrangement in Singapore under local insolvency laws. An independent audit revealed no evidence of wrongdoing by its custodian partner, Liminal Custody.

Worldcoin shifts focus to Asia for biometric tech

Worldcoin is redirecting its attention from Europe to Asia, aiming to engage markets that are more receptive to its biometric technology. The company, co-founded by Sam Altman, seeks regions where local businesses and governments embrace innovative solutions. Fabian Bodensteiner, managing director of Worldcoin’s European operations, highlighted the need to prioritise markets that present the most significant business opportunities, as the company continues to navigate its limited workforce.

The shift comes amid regulatory scrutiny in Europe, with Bavaria’s data protection authority set to make a decision that could affect Worldcoin’s operations in the region. In May, Hong Kong’s privacy regulator found that Worldcoin had violated local privacy laws by excessively handling biometric data. However, a spokesperson for the Worldcoin Foundation asserted the company’s commitment to operating within legal frameworks concerning data collection and usage.

Despite stepping back from Europe as a primary focus, Worldcoin has expanded into Poland and Austria this year and maintains its presence in Germany. Bodensteiner affirmed the company’s intention to remain engaged in the European market, stating, “We want to stay in the conversation and we want to stay committed to the market.” As of now, Worldcoin is trading at $1.92, reflecting a 4.44% increase.

Hong Kong set to grant more crypto exchange licences by year-end

Hong Kong’s financial regulator, the Securities Futures Commission (SFC), has announced plans to grant more licences to crypto exchanges and digital asset firms by the end of the year.

SFC CEO Julia Leung stated that progress would be made in issuing licences to 11 currently operating Virtual Asset Trading Platforms (VATPs) from the regulator’s list of potential licensees, according to an 6 October report from local media outlet HK01. She added that the licences would be granted in batches, aiming to ensure better compliance across exchanges.

Currently, 16 companies await decisions on their VATP applications. Eleven of these firms are already operating under a “deemed to be licensed” status, though the SFC has advised traders against doing business with them until full approval is granted.

The SFC recently revealed its 2024-2026 roadmap, focusing on further regulation of crypto platforms, promoting Real World Asset (RWA) tokenisation, and exploring blockchain technologies. This comes after Hong Kong prioritised the licensing of crypto firms in the wake of a $165 million scandal involving the Dubai-based exchange JPEX.

Telegram unveils new features amid Toncoin market struggles

Telegram recently introduced several new features, including the ability to send gifts, improved moderation tools, and enhanced video chats for iOS and Android users. However, Toncoin (TON) has failed to capitalise on these developments, with the coin’s price continuing to drop despite favourable market conditions. TON has fallen 2.7% in the past 24 hours and over 10% during the last week.

Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, revealed that users could convert some of these limited-edition gifts into TON-based NFTs, adding an extra layer of functionality to the platform. Yet, despite these innovations, TON’s price has struggled to recover from its mid-2024 downturn, following Durov’s arrest.

Though TON traded above $8 earlier this year, it now sits at $5.22. Despite the slow recovery, the community remains hopeful that future developments might turn the tide for the coin.

Bitcoin faces slight drop but whales hold steady

Bitcoin briefly surpassed the $62,000 mark earlier in October before seeing a slight correction, with the price settling around $61,950. Despite the dip, data shows that large holders, known as whales, didn’t participate in the recent sell-off. Whale transaction volumes also dropped by nearly half, suggesting the possibility of price consolidation and reduced volatility.

Over the past week, Bitcoin has seen a net outflow from centralised exchanges, with around $153 million withdrawn. This could indicate growing accumulation as investors maintain bullish expectations for the cryptocurrency this October.

However, the broader crypto market remains susceptible to external influences, with geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic events likely to affect price movements in the near term.

IMF advises El Salvador to limit Bitcoin exposure

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged El Salvador to limit its exposure to Bitcoin and to narrow the scope of its Bitcoin law. Julie Kozack, the IMF’s director of communications, stated that recommendations include strengthening the regulatory framework and enhancing oversight of the Bitcoin ecosystem. The IMF has consistently raised concerns about the financial risks associated with Bitcoin, particularly regarding transparency and its potential impact on the country’s financial stability.

Despite projecting a 3% growth for El Salvador’s economy this year, the IMF remains critical of the current Bitcoin programme, which has been linked to risks that could undermine fiscal stability. The organisation has called for further efforts to improve transparency and address potential risks related to Bitcoin, highlighting the need for ongoing discussions in key areas.

El Salvador is currently negotiating a new loan with the IMF, owing the organisation approximately 107.7 million in special drawing rights. This loan aims to stabilise the country’s macroeconomic situation while the government is willing to implement economic reforms. The IMF is working with El Salvador to enhance liquidity reserves, improve public finances, and ensure good governance amid concerns about Bitcoin risks. The government currently holds over $360 million in Bitcoin.