GameStop has bought over $500 million worth of Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and may allow crypto payments for trading cards. The company says it will take a careful approach to crypto, using its strong finances to explore new opportunities without rushing in.
AnaisStandard Chartered has started offering bitcoin and ether spot trading directly to institutional clients through its UK branch. This makes it the first major global bank to provide regulated crypto trading using existing foreign exchange systems.
WeatherlyCoinbase’s stock hit a record high as Bitcoin surged, pushing its market value above $100 billion. The jump was driven by growing investor confidence, political support for crypto, and strong earnings from stablecoin services.
AnaisBank of America has launched a new research series called On Chain to explore blockchain, stablecoins, and tokenised assets. The bank sees Ethereum and companies like Stripe as key to the future of digital finance and payment systems.
WeatherlyA man jailed for a major crypto theft has had his prison sentence raised to 12 years after refusing to return any of the stolen funds. The judge criticised him for living in luxury without paying back the $20 million he owes.
WeatherlySaruTobi, a mobile game, has returned to the iOS App Store with built-in Bitcoin payments using the Lightning Network. Players can now spend and earn small amounts of Bitcoin directly in the game without needing an external wallet.
JoyNew Zealand has banned all crypto ATMs and set a $5,000 limit on international cash transfers to fight money laundering and organised crime. Over 220 machines were shut down, with the government saying they were being used to quickly move criminal funds overseas.
WeatherlySBI Holdings and Aplus now let Japanese credit card users swap loyalty points for Bitcoin, Ethereum, or XRP. This is the first time crypto has been added as a reward option, though the exchange amount is small and capped.
WeatherlySweden is turning up the heat on crypto seizures, after Sweden's justice minister Gunnar Strömmer made a public statement calling the local authorities to focus on crackdowns that could yield larger profits.
XingChi"Madam Ngo", a fugitive behind a massive crypto fraud, was caught in Thailand after scamming over 2,600 people. She now faces extradition to Vietnam for trial.
AnaisKazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has announced plans for “CryptoCity,” a hub to legalise crypto payments for goods, services, and real estate. The city will act as a regulatory sandbox for digital assets, integrating crypto transactions, digital IDs, and blockchain-based tax systems—advancing Kazakhstan’s digital economy vision.
CatherineThe SEC dropped its lawsuit against Binance after nearly three years of legal action over alleged securities violations. The case was closed as the new SEC leadership began easing its stance on crypto regulation.
WeatherlyTwo Russian crypto entrepreneurs were kidnapped in Buenos Aires and held for a $43,000 crypto ransom. They were assaulted and released within 24 hours after a friend paid. Interpol has issued a red notice for the suspects, who fled to the UAE.
KikyoParis Saint-Germain became the first major sports club to hold Bitcoin in its treasury, converting part of its cash reserves in 2024. The announcement boosted the PSG Fan Token price and reflects the club’s focus on digital finance for its young global audience.
AnaisTether announced a $2 billion investment to become the world’s largest Bitcoin miner and now holds over 100,000 BTC, 50 tons of gold, and $120 billion in U.S. Treasuries. It also reported $13 billion in 2024 profits and continues expanding USDT use for payments and financial access worldwide.
WeatherlyThailand’s SEC is banning five major crypto exchanges on June 28, 2025, because they operated without proper local licenses. The ban aims to protect investors and prevent these platforms from being used for money laundering and illegal activities.
WeatherlyThe SEC said common crypto staking practices on proof-of-stake blockchains are not considered securities transactions. This new guidance gives more clarity to stakers and companies, though it is not legally binding and doesn't cover all types of staking.
AnaisSilk Road founder Ross Ulbricht has resurfaced as a polarising crypto figure, raising $1.8 million in Bitcoin by auctioning prison memorabilia. Days later, he received a surprise 300 BTC donation worth $31 million—reigniting debate over whether this support reflects alignment with his ideals or raises ethical concerns in today’s crypto culture.
CatherineElon Musk’s XChat app offers encrypted chats, vanishing messages, and cross-platform calls without a phone number. Built in Rust with Bitcoin-grade encryption, it prioritises privacy—but experts warn quantum computing could soon undermine its security.
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