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◽Altcoin Alerts, News, Events, ICO/IEO Updates, Research, Tweets and more. 🚩Content posted in this channel should not be considered as investment advice. Invest only at ur own risk.
🔔Bitcoin Mining Difficulty Surpasses 80 Trillion for the First Time !
The hash rate for the Bitcoin network reached 562.81 EH/s, and the mining difficulty hit 81.73 trillion, both new all-time highs, according to BTC.com. The mining difficulty has been consistently increasing since January 2023 and is expected to reach 100 trillion in the coming months.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://explorer.btc.com/btc/insights-difficulty?chart=difficulty
🔔 Ethena Labs, Developer of Ethereum-Based Stablecoin USDe, Raises $14 Million in Strategic Funding Round, Valuing the Company at $300 Million !
Ethena Labs, the developer of the Ethereum-based stablecoin USDe, has raised $14 million in a strategic funding round. The round was co-led by Dragonfly, Brevan Howard Digital, and BitMEX founder Arthur Hayes' family office, Maelstrom. Other investors included PayPal Ventures, Franklin Templeton, Fidelity via Avon Ventures, and several crypto exchanges such as Binance, Deribit, Gemini, and Kraken. Ethena had commitments of over $50 million but capped the round at $14 million as it did not need more cash at the moment. The round, structured as a simple agreement for future equity with token warrants, brought Ethena's valuation to $300 million.
🔔 Fed Governor Suggests Stablecoins Could Strengthen Dollar's Position as Global Reserve Currency !
Federal Reserve governor Christopher Waller suggests that the popularity of USD-denominated stablecoins in DeFi may be strengthening the dollar's status as a global reserve currency.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/waller20240215a.htm
🔔 Prominent Crypto Attorney John Deaton may run against Elizabeth Warren in 2024 elections !
John Deaton, a well-known cryptocurrency advocate and attorney based in Swansea, is reportedly contemplating a run as a Republican candidate in the upcoming US Senate race against Democrat Elizabeth Warren. This potential move has been confirmed by two GOP insiders familiar with Deaton's intentions.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/02/14/metro/republican-lawyer-eyes-challenge-to-elizabeth-warren/
🔔 The Hacking group Lazarus Shifts to YoMix Following Sanctions on Sinbad Mixer, Reports Chainalysis !
The Lazarus Group, known for its extensive hacking activities targeting cryptocurrency companies and protocols such as Harmony, Coincheck, and Atomic Wallet and many others, continues to be a significant threat in the crypto space. While previously utilizing Tornado Cash and Sinbad mixer, the group has now shifted to a new mixer called YoMix, as identified by Chainalysis.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.chainalysis.com/blog/2024-crypto-money-laundering/
🔔 Telefonica, Spanish Telecom Giant, Teams Up with Chainlink to Enhance Security Against 'SIM Swap' Hacks !
Telefónica and Chainlink Labs have formed a strategic alliance to integrate real-world telecom capabilities into blockchain networks, enhancing security. The partnership's first use case involves the SIM SWAP API, which checks for changes to a SIM card linked to a mobile number, aiding in fraud prevention. Through Chainlink's Functions platform, developers can verify data for added security in blockchain transactions.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.telefonica.com/en/communication-room/press-room/telefonica-integrates-chainlink-to-strengthen-web3-security-with/
🚨 HACK ALERT : Notcoin Twitter Account is Hacked !
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🔔 SEC Proposes Rule to Update Definition of "Qualifying Venture Capital Funds" !
The Securities and Exchange Commission proposed a rule to update the dollar threshold for a fund to qualify as a "qualifying venture capital fund" under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The proposed rule would raise the threshold to $12 million aggregate capital contributions and uncalled committed capital, up from $10 million, in line with inflation. The proposal implements a requirement from the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act of 2018 and establishes a process for future inflation adjustments every five years. The proposal will be open for public comment for 30 days after publication in the Federal Register.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.sec.gov/news/press-release/2024-19
🔔 Fed Chair Powell Tells House Democrats, Stablecoin Bill is Needed for U.S.: Politico !
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasized the need for a legislative framework for stablecoins during a closed-door meeting with House Democrats. He expressed satisfaction that negotiations on stablecoin legislation are nearing completion, according to Politico.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.politico.com/newsletters/morning-money
🔔 Bitcoin Surpasses $51,000, Regains $1 Trillion Market Capitalization !
The price of bitcoin (BTC) surpassed $51,000, reaching a market capitalization of $1 trillion for the first time since December 2021.
🔔 Robinhood CFO States Bitcoin ETFs Have Not Impacted Spot Bitcoin Trading !
Robinhood traders have shown little interest in spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), with the majority of crypto trading on the platform still focused on direct spot Bitcoin transactions, according to the company's chief financial officer. Jason Warnick stated during an earnings call for Robinhood’s Q4 2023 results on Feb. 13 that only 5% of users' crypto trading involves Bitcoin ETFs, while the remaining 95% prefer direct spot Bitcoin trading.
🔔 Ledger Users can Purchase Assets Directly from Coinbase !
Coinbase and Ledger have collaborated to integrate Coinbase Pay into the Ledger Live app, enabling users to purchase digital assets directly from Coinbase without transferring crypto off their hardware wallet. This integration allows users to utilize various payment methods, such as ACH, Visa, and Mastercard, to buy assets from Coinbase and have them automatically sent to their Ledger device. This is currently available for users in US, UK, EU, Brazil, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and Singapore.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://twitter.com/Ledger/status/1757427724937724412
🔔 South Korean Regulator to Ban 'Unfit' Crypto Exchanges from Market Starting This Year !
South Korea's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) is tightening scrutiny over crypto exchanges, aiming to expel unsuitable platforms and introduce a preemptive trading suspension system for suspicious transactions.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2024/02/816_368640.html
🔔 Blockchain Association Expresses Concerns Over Warren's Proposed Crypto AML Bill in Letter to Congress !
The Blockchain Association, a nonprofit organization representing the interests of the U.S. crypto industry, expressed concern over Senator Elizabeth Warren's proposed bill, the Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2023, in a letter to Congress on Tuesday. The letter, co-signed by 80 former military and national security professionals with backgrounds in digital assets, warned that the bill could undermine the nation's strategic advantage, threaten U.S. jobs, and have little impact on targeting illicit actors.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
▪️Letter:
https://theblockchainassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NatSecLettertoCongress_2_13_24.pdf
▪️Crypto AML Proposal:
https://www.warren.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Crypto%20AML%20One-Pager_7.26.23.pdf
🔔 Franklin Templeton Initiates Process for Spot Ethereum ETF with New SEC Filing !
On Monday, investment firm Franklin Templeton initiated the process for a spot Ethereum ETF by filing an S-1 registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The proposed Franklin Ethereum ETF aims to mirror the price of ether and would be custodied by Coinbase Custody Trust Company and the Bank of New York Mellon for ether and cash holdings, respectively. If approved, the ETF's shares would be listed and traded on the Cboe BZX Exchange, Inc.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/2011535/000113743924000573/fets1022024.htm
🔔 JUST IN: SEC Charges Van Eck Associates for Failing to Disclose Influencer’s Role in Connection with ETF Launch !
Registered investment adviser Van Eck Associates Corporation will pay a $1.75 million civil penalty to settle SEC charges related to its failure to disclose a social media influencer's involvement in the launch of its VanEck Social Sentiment ETF (NYSE:BUZZ) in March 2021. Van Eck Associates did not disclose the influencer's planned role or the fee structure linked to the fund's size to the ETF's board during approval. The settlement includes a cease-and-desist order, a censure, and the monetary penalty.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.sec.gov/news/press-release/2024-20
🔔 Aptos and Jambo Collaborate to Empower Emerging Markets with Web3 Phone Technology !
The Aptos Foundation and Jambo Technology have partnered to enhance Web3 accessibility and education in regions such as Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Their core product, the JamboPhone, priced at $99, aims to facilitate access to the digital economy. It will be available in over 40 countries and integrates the Aptos network through pre-installed apps like the Aptos-compatible wallet Petra.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://aptosfoundation.org/currents/aptos-foundation-partners-with-jambo-to-empower-emerging-markets-through-web3
⚡️ News Flash - 15 Feb 2024 !
1️⃣ Orbs and SYMMIO Collaborate to Improve OTC Derivatives Trading
Orbs Partners with OTC derivatives platform SYMMIO to Enhance Onchain Derivatives Trading, Boosting Capital Efficiency and Liquidity Access
2️⃣ YouTuber KSI Accused of Pump-and-Dump Scheme by ZachXBT and Coffeezilla
On February 14, KSI reactivated his X account, previously used for discussing crypto token investments, with approximately 371,000 followers. Shortly after, ZachXBT commented on KSI's post, suggesting that the YouTuber would resume sharing questionable content.
3️⃣ Uniswap Announces V4 Expected to Launch in Q3 2024
The Dencun Mainnet Launch is Set for March 2024, While Uniswap v4 is Tentatively Planned for Q3 2024. The Uniswap Team is Prioritizing Thorough Auditing and Testing to Ensure the Security of v4.
4️⃣ Elizabeth Warren Shifts Stance on Bitcoin, Honors Nakamoto with Flag Over Capitol
Elizabeth Warren signed a certificate to honor Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto, with a ceremonial flag flying, stating, "Americans are forever grateful."
5️⃣ US Authorities Investigate Trust Wallet iOS App for Vulnerability
US Department of Commerce Agency Analyzes Older Version of Binance Trust Wallet App for Vulnerability Allowing Potential Fund Theft
🔔 MicroStrategy's Bitcoin Holdings Surpass $10 Billion in Value !
As of the latest report, MicroStrategy owns 190,000 Bitcoins. With the price of Bitcoin reaching $52,803, the total value of MicroStrategy's holdings has exceeded $10 billion.
🔔 Debt Box Opposes SEC's Request for Dismissal, Claiming Strategic Intent !
Digital Licensing Inc., also known as DEBT Box, faces a legal battle with the SEC over an alleged fraud scheme. Despite the regulator's attempt to dismiss the case and retry it, DEBT Box contends that such action should not be permitted.
🔔 Bakkt approved for $150M securities sale to stem its cash bleed !
Cash-strapped crypto company Bakkt has secured regulatory approval to raise up to $150 million through the sale of its securities. This development follows Bakkt's recent expression of concern about its financial position.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240214536733/en/Bakkt-Shelf-Registration-Statement-Declared-Effective-by-the-SEC
🔔 Paradigm's White Hat Hacker Samczsun Leads Crypto Security Initiative: Security Alliance !
The Security Alliance, also known as SEAL Org, is a new crypto security operation created by white hat hacker Samczsun. It offers a 24/7 emergency hotline for crypto users affected by hacks, legal protection for white hat hackers, and free red team exercises for web3 developers.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://twitter.com/samczsun/status/1757784864575910104
🔔 Genesis Global Gets Court Approval to Redeem $1.3 Billion in Grayscale Bitcoin Trust Shares !
Genesis Global Holdco LLC has received approval from a bankruptcy court to begin redeeming approximately 35 million shares of the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust, valued at over $1.3 billion. This move comes as the bankrupt crypto lender prepares to compensate clients who lent it digital assets.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-02-14/genesis-cleared-by-court-to-sell-gbtc-shares-worth-1-3-billion
🔔 BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF IBIT Surpasses 100,000 BTC Under Management !
BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) has accumulated 105,280 BTC in holdings. IBIT achieved this milestone on its 22nd day of trading, becoming the first spot Bitcoin ETF in the United States to reach this level among nine other spot Bitcoin ETFs, excluding Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC).
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.ishares.com/us/products/333011/ishares-bitcoin-trust
🔔 JUST IN: Starknet Announces Mainnet and $STRK Token Airdrop Claim Date on FEB 20 !
The Starknet Foundation is launching the Starknet Provisions Program, distributing over 700 million STRK tokens to nearly 1.3 million addresses out of 1.8 billion total tokens dedicated to the community. Eligible users can claim their tokens on the Starknet Mainnet starting February 20, 2024, with a 4-month claiming period. Unclaimed tokens will be redistributed in future rounds or programs.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://twitter.com/StarknetFndn/status/1757676598730342761
🔔 US Treasury to Address Concerns Over Crypto's Use in Illicit Finance at Upcoming Hearing !
A U.S. Treasury official is set to outline the agency's concerns about cryptocurrencies in illicit finance to House lawmakers. The official will also request additional authority to pursue bad actors, as per prepared testimony ahead of a congressional hearing scheduled for Wednesday.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://docs.house.gov/meetings/BA/BA00/20240214/116841/HHRG-118-BA00-Wstate-NelsonB-20240214.pdf
🔔 BTC ETF Flow doubled in past 3 days. At the same time Gold is 5th worst among all ETFs this year.
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🔔 Former PayPal CEO Peter Thiel's Founders Fund Invests $200 Million in Bitcoin and Ether in 2023: Reuters !
Former PayPal CEO Peter Thiel’s venture capital firm Founders Fund made a significant investment of $200 million in bitcoin and ether last year. The investment, totaling $100 million in each of the two largest cryptocurrencies, took place from late summer to early fall of 2023 when bitcoin's price was below $30,000. Founders Fund reportedly began investing in bitcoin in 2014, which resulted in a profit of $1.8 billion by selling before the 2022 market collapse.
▶️ Check More Details Here :
https://www.reuters.com/technology/peter-thiels-founders-fund-made-200-million-crypto-investment-before-bull-run-2024-02-13/
🔔 Bitcoin ETFs acquire ten times more Bitcoin than miners produce on Monday !
On February 12th, preliminary data suggests that over $493.4 million, or about 10,280 BTC, flowed into spot Bitcoin ETFs. BlackRock's IBIT led with a $374.7 million inflow, followed by Fidelity's FBTC fund with $151.9 million, and Ark 21Shares' ARKB fund with $40 million. However, Grayscale and Invesco saw outflows of $95 million and $20.8 million, respectively. Meanwhile, Bitcoin miners generated approximately 1,059 BTC, valued at roughly $51 million, representing just 10% of the BTC inflow into spot ETFs.
🔔 CNBC Reports : Criminal sentencing of Binance founder CZ postponed to late April
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