Author: Arthur Hayes, founder of BitMEX; Translator: AIMan@黄金财经
While Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire had to take over the position at the request of Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, I hope that for those who trade any "stablecoin" related products in the public stock market, this article will prevent you from rapidly swelling because promoters shove shit into the asses of ignorant gamblers. It is based on this opening statement that I will begin to explore the past, present and future of the stablecoin market.
Professional cryptocurrency traders are unique in some ways in the capital markets because they must have a deep understanding of how funds flow in the global fiat banking system if they want to survive and thrive. Stock investors or foreign exchange traders do not need to understand how stocks and/or currencies are settled and transferred. Transactions must rely on the services of brokers, who will quietly provide this service in the background.
First of all, it is not easy to buy your first Bitcoin; it is not clear which option is the best and safest. Most people’s first step, at least when I started getting into crypto in 2013, was to buy Bitcoin from someone else, either through a direct bank wire or with a cash payment. After that, you can gradually transition to trading on exchanges that offer two-sided markets, where you can trade larger amounts of Bitcoin for lower fees. But getting your fiat currency onto an exchange isn’t easy. Many exchanges lack solid partnerships with banks or are in a regulatory gray area in their home countries, which means you can’t wire funds directly to the exchange. Exchanges come up with workarounds, such as directing users to transfer fiat directly to local agents who issue cash vouchers on the exchange, or setting up an affiliated business that appears to the bank account holder to have nothing to do with crypto to obtain an account and direct users to transfer funds to that business.
Scammers take advantage of this friction and steal fiat in a variety of ways. The exchange itself may lie about where the funds are going, and then one day…poof—the website disappears along with your hard-earned fiat. If fiat is transferred in and out of crypto capital markets through third-party intermediaries, these people can abscond with the money at any time.
Because of the risks of moving fiat money in crypto capital markets, traders must have detailed knowledge and trust in the cash flow operations of their counterparties. I received a crash course in global payments as money moved within the banking systems of Hong Kong, mainland China, and Taiwan (I refer to the region as Greater China).
Understanding how money moves in Greater China helped me understand how the business of major Chinese and international exchanges (such as Bitfinex) works. This is critical because all real innovation in crypto capital markets is happening in Greater China. This is especially true for stablecoins. Read on and you’ll understand why this is so important. The most successful example of a crypto exchange in the West is Coinbase, which was founded in 2012. However, Coinbase’s innovation was that it established and maintained banking relationships in one of the most hostile markets to financial innovation: Pax Americana. Otherwise, Coinbase is nothing more than an overpriced crypto brokerage account, and that’s all it needs to propel its early shareholders to billionaire status. The reason I’m writing another article on stablecoins is because of the huge success of the Circle IPO. To be clear, Circle is seriously overvalued, but its price will continue to rise. This listing marks the beginning, not the end, of this round of stablecoin mania. The bubble will burst after a stablecoin issuer goes public on the public markets (most likely in the U.S.) and uses financial engineering, leverage, and showmanship to siphon tens of billions of dollars of capital away from suckers. As usual, most of those willing to part with their precious capital don’t understand the history of stablecoins and crypto payments, why the ecosystem has evolved the way it has, or what this means for which issuers will succeed or fail. A charismatic, charismatic figure will take the stage, spout off all sorts of gibberish, wave his (most likely male) hands around, and explain to you why this leveraged shit he’s selling is about to corner the multi-trillion dollar stablecoin total addressable market (TAM).
If you stop reading here, then the only question you need to ask yourself when evaluating an investment in a stablecoin issuer is: how will they distribute their product? In order to achieve distribution at scale, i.e. be able to reach millions of users at an affordable price, issuers must have access to channels through cryptocurrency exchanges, Web2 social media giants, or traditional banks. Without distribution channels, they have no chance of success. If you can’t easily verify that the issuer has the right to promote the product through one or more channels, then walk away!
Hopefully my readers won’t waste their money in this way because they read this article and are able to think critically about the stablecoin investment opportunity in front of them. This article will discuss the evolution of stablecoin distribution. First, I will discuss why and how Tether developed in Greater China, which laid the foundation for their conquest of stablecoin payments in the Global South. Then, I will discuss the boom in Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and how this created a true product-market fit for Tether. I will move on to the first attempts by Web2 social media giants to enter the stablecoin space. Finally, I will talk about how traditional banks will get involved. Again, because I know X makes an article longer than a few hundred characters hard to read, if a stablecoin issuer or technology provider cannot distribute through cryptocurrency exchanges, Web2 social media giants, or traditional banks, then they have no business.
Currently, successful stablecoin issuers Tether, Circle, and Ethena all have the ability to distribute their products through large cryptocurrency exchanges. I will focus on Tether's development and touch on Circle a little to illustrate how it is almost impossible for any new entrant to replicate their success.
Initially, cryptocurrency exchanges were overlooked. For example, from 2014 until the late 2010s, Bitfinex was the largest global exchange outside of China. At the time, Bitfinex was owned by a Hong Kong operating company that had multiple local bank accounts. This was great for an arbitrage trader like me living in Hong Kong because I could wire funds to the exchange almost instantly. There was a street across from my apartment in Sai Ying Pun where almost all the local banks were located. I would shuttle between banks with cash to reduce fees and collection time. This was very important because it allowed me to turn over funds once a day during the workday.
Meanwhile, in mainland China, the three largest exchanges, OKCoin, Huobi, and Bitcoin China, all opened multiple bank accounts in large state-owned banks. It took me 45 minutes to take a bus to Shenzhen, and with my passport and basic Chinese skills, I opened multiple local bank accounts. As a trader, by having connections with banks in mainland China and Hong Kong, I had access to all the liquidity in the world. I was also sure that my fiat would not be lost. In contrast, I lived with fear every time I wired money to certain Eastern European exchanges because I did not trust their banking system.
But as cryptocurrencies grew in popularity, banks started closing accounts. You had to check the health of each bank-exchange relationship every day. This was very detrimental to my profits as a trader, the slower money moved between exchanges, the less money I made through arbitrage. But what if you could move electronic dollars on the blockchain, rather than through traditional banking channels? Then the U.S. dollar, which was and still is the lifeblood of the crypto capital markets, could flow between exchanges around the clock, almost for free.
The Tether team worked with the founders of Bitfinex to develop such a product. In 2015, Bitfinex allowed Tether USD to be used on its platform. At the time, Tether used the Omni protocol as a layer on the Bitcoin blockchain for sending Tether USD (USDT) between addresses. It was a prototype smart contract layer built on top of Bitcoin.
Tether allowed certain entities to wire dollars to bank accounts, and in return, Tether would mint USDT. USDT could be sent to Bitfinex to buy cryptocurrencies. Holy shit, why was there so much excitement about only one exchange offering this product?
Stablecoins, like all payment systems, only become valuable when a large number of participants with economic influence become nodes of the network. In the case of Tether, in addition to Bitfinex, cryptocurrency traders and other large exchanges need to use USDT to solve practical problems.
Everyone in Greater China faces the same dilemma. Banks are closing accounts of traders and exchanges. In addition, Asians are eager to obtain US dollars because their national currencies are prone to shock depreciation, inflation is high, and domestic bank deposits have low interest rates. For most Chinese, it is difficult or even impossible to obtain trading opportunities in the US dollar and US financial markets. Therefore, Tether, a digital version of the US dollar that anyone with an internet connection can use, is extremely attractive.
The Bitfinex/Tether team took advantage of this. Jean-Louis van der Velde, CEO of Bitfinex since 2013, used to work for a Chinese automaker. He understands Greater China and is committed to making USDT the go-to USD bank account for Chinese crypto enthusiasts. Bitfinex, while never having an executive of Chinese descent, has built tremendous trust between Tether and the Chinese crypto trading community. So you can rest assured that the Chinese trust Tether. And throughout the Global South, where overseas Chinese are finding it hard, as the citizens of the Empire are finding out in this doomed trade war, banks in the Global South are provided by Tether.
Just because Tether initially only had one large exchange as a distributor does not ensure its success. The market structure has changed so much that trading altcoins against the dollar is only possible with USDT. Let's go back to 2017, at the peak of the ICO craze, Tether really solidified its product-market fit.
August 2015 was a very important month because the People's Bank of China (PBOC) conducted a shock devaluation of the RMB against the US dollar, and ETH, the native currency of the Ethereum network, began trading. The macro and micro levels developed in sync. It was legendary and ultimately drove the bull run from then to December 2017. Bitcoin soared from $135 to $20,000; ETH soared from $0.33 to $1,410.
When money is printed, macroeconomics is always favorable. Because Chinese traders are marginal buyers of all cryptocurrencies, and cryptocurrencies at the time only meant Bitcoin. If they were uneasy about the RMB, Bitcoin would soar. At least it was at the time.
The shock devaluation by the PBOC exacerbated capital flight. Give me dollars, cryptocurrencies, gold, foreign real estate, etc. By August 2015, the price of Bitcoin had fallen from its all-time high of $1,300 before the collapse of Mt. Gox in February 2014 to a low of $135 on Bitfinex earlier that month, when Zhao Dong, China’s largest OTC Bitcoin trader, received the largest margin call in history on Bitfinex, a 6,000-BTC margin call. The narrative of Chinese capital flight sparked a surge in the price of Bitcoin; from August to October 2015, BTC/USD more than tripled.
The little things are always the most interesting. The proliferation of altcoins really began after the launch of the Ethereum mainnet and its native currency, Ether, on July 30, 2015. Poloniex was the first exchange to allow trading of Ether, and it was this foresight that made them the industry leader in 2017. Funny enough, Circle nearly went bankrupt when they bought Poloniex at the height of the ICO market. Years later, they sold the exchange to Justin Sun at a huge loss.
Poloniex and other Chinese exchanges took advantage of the nascent altcoin market by launching crypto-only trading platforms. Unlike Bitfinex, these platforms don’t need to interface with the fiat banking system. You can only deposit and withdraw cryptocurrencies and trade them with other cryptocurrencies. But this is not the best solution, as traders instinctively want to trade altcoin/USD pairs. Without the ability to accept fiat deposits and withdrawals, how can exchanges like Poloniex and Yunbi (which was the largest ICO platform in China until it was shut down by the People’s Bank of China in the fall of 2017) offer these trading pairs? Here comes USDT!
After the Ethereum mainnet is launched, USDT can be circulated on the network using ERC-20 standard smart contracts. Any exchange that supports Ethereum can also easily support USDT. Therefore, pure crypto trading platforms can offer altcoin/USDT trading pairs to meet market demand. This also means that digital dollars can flow seamlessly between mainstream exchanges such as Bifinex, OKCoin, Huobi, Bitcoin China (where capital enters the ecosystem) and more fun and speculative platforms such as Poloniex and Yunbi (where the vulgar play).
The IC0 craze gave birth to Binance, which later became a giant. A few years ago, Zhao Changpeng resigned as CTO due to a personal dispute with OKCoin CEO Mingxing Xu. Zhao left and founded Binance with the goal of becoming the world's largest shitcoin exchange. Binance has no bank account, and to this day, I don't know if it is possible to deposit fiat currency directly into Binance without going through a payment processor. Binance used USDT as its bank transfer channel and quickly became the preferred platform for trading shitcoins, and the rest of the story is history.
Between 2015 and 2017, Tether achieved product-market fit and built a moat against future competitors. Due to the trust of the Chinese trading community in Tether, USDT gradually became accepted by all major trading platforms. At the time, USDT was not yet used for payments, but it was the most efficient way to transfer digital dollars in and out of and within the cryptocurrency capital market.
By the late 2010s, exchanges were having great difficulty maintaining bank accounts. Taiwan became the de facto crypto banking hub for all large non-Western exchanges, which controlled most of the global cryptocurrency trading liquidity. This was because some Taiwanese banks allowed exchanges to open USD accounts and somehow maintained correspondent banking relationships with large US money center banks such as Wells Fargo. However, this arrangement began to unravel as the correspondent banks demanded that these Taiwanese banks expel all cryptocurrency customers or lose access to global USD markets. As a result, by the late 2010s, USDT was the only way for U.S. dollars to flow at scale in crypto capital markets. This solidified its position as the dominant stablecoin. Many Western players raised money by selling crypto payments and created competitors to Tether. The only one that survived at scale was Circle’s USDC. However, Circle’s disadvantage was obvious, as it was a US company based in Boston (duh!) with no connection to the core of cryptocurrency trading and use in Greater China. Circle’s unspoken message was: China = scary; America = safe. This message was ironic, as Tether has never had a Chinese executive, yet it has always been associated with the Northeast Asian market and now the Global South.
The stablecoin craze has been around for a long time. In 2019, Facebook (now Meta) decided to launch its own stablecoin, Libra. The appeal of Libra is that Facebook can provide dollar bank accounts to users around the world, except in China, through Instagram and Whatsapp. Here is what I wrote about Libra in June 2019:
The event horizon has passed. Facebook has begun its foray into the digital asset industry with Libra. Before I start my analysis, let me be clear: Libra is neither decentralized nor censorship-resistant. Libra is not a cryptocurrency. Libra will destroy all stablecoins, but who cares? I don't feel sorry for projects that somehow believe that there is value in some unheard-of sponsor creating a blockchain-based fiat market fund.
Libra could put commercial banks and central banks in a difficult position. It could reduce their role to a regulated digital fiat currency warehouse. And this is exactly what these institutions should encounter in the digital age.
Libra and other stablecoins from Web2 social media companies should have stolen the show. They have the most customers and have nearly complete information about their preferences and behavior.
Finally, the US political class is taking action to protect traditional banks from real competition in payments and foreign exchange. Here’s what I said at the time:
I have no love for the foolish comments and actions of US Representative Maxine Waters on the US House Financial Services Committee. But her and other government officials’ concerns are not based on altruism for their subordinates, but rather on fears of disruption in the financial services industry that has enriched them and kept them in office. That government officials were so quick to sound the alarm about Libra speaks to the potential positive value of the project for human society.
That was in the past, but now the Trump administration will allow competition in financial markets. Trump 2.0 has no love for the banks that de-banked his entire family during US President Biden’s administration. As a result, social media companies are re-starting projects to embed stablecoin technology natively into their platforms. This is great news for shareholders of social media companies. These companies can completely cannibalize traditional banking systems, payments, and foreign exchange revenue streams. However, this is bad news for any entrepreneur looking to create a new stablecoin, as social media companies will build everything needed to support their stablecoin operations on their own. Investors in emerging stablecoin issuers must be careful to see if their promoters claim to be working with or distributing through any social media companies. Other tech companies are also jumping on the stablecoin bandwagon. Social media platform X, Airbnb, and Google are all in preliminary discussions about integrating stablecoins into their business operations. In May, Fortune reported that Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta (which has tried blockchain technology in the past, but failed) is in talks with cryptocurrency companies to introduce a stablecoin payment solution.
— Source: Fortune
Whether banks like it or not, they will no longer be able to continue to earn billions of dollars in revenue each year by holding and transferring digital fiat currencies, nor will they be able to earn the same fees by trading foreign exchange.I recently spoke to a board member of a large bank about stablecoins, and they said “we’re screwed”. They believe that stablecoins are unstoppable and use the example of Nigeria. I don’t know the extent of USDT penetration in Nigeria, but they told me that even after the Nigerian central bank tried very seriously to ban cryptocurrencies, a third of Nigeria’s GDP was still settled in USDT.
They went on to point out that because adoption is bottom-up rather than top-down, regulators are powerless to stop it. By the time regulators take notice and try to act, it’s too late because adoption has already become widespread among the population.
Even though every large traditional bank has people like them in senior positions, the banking organism doesn’t want to change because it would mean the death of many cells (aka employees). With less than 100 employees, Tether has been able to scale using blockchain technology to perform key functions for the entire global banking system. By comparison, JP Morgan, the world’s best-run commercial bank, has more than 300,000 employees.
Banks are facing a critical moment — adapt or die. However, their efforts to streamline their bloated workforces and provide the products needed by the global digital economy are further complicated by the limits on how many people must be hired to perform certain functions. Take my experience at BitMEX, as I tried to open an office in Tokyo and obtain a license to trade cryptocurrencies. The management team considered whether they should open a local office and obtain a license to conduct some limited types of cryptocurrency trading in addition to the core derivatives business. The cost of complying with regulations was an issue because you couldn't leverage technology to meet the requirements. The regulators stipulated that for each compliance and operational function listed, you had to hire a person with the appropriate level of experience. I don't remember the exact number, but I think it would take about 60 people to do all the required functions, each making at least $80,000 per year, totaling $4.8 million per year. All of this work could have been automated for less than $100,000 per year to pay a SaaS vendor. I would also add that there would be fewer mistakes than hiring people who are prone to making mistakes. Oh... and in Japan, you can't fire anyone without closing the entire office. Oops!
The problem worldwide is that banking regulation is nothing more than a job-supplier for an overeducated populace. Their education is filled with bullshit, not what really matters. They are just high-paid guys punching time clocks. As much as bank executives would like to cut 99% of their staff and increase productivity, as regulated institutions, they can't do it.
Stablecoins will eventually be adopted in limited forms among traditional banks.
They will be running two systems at once: the old slow and expensive one and the new fast and cheap one. The extent to which they are actually allowed to adopt stablecoins will be determined by the prudential regulators in each office. Remember, JPMorgan is not a single institution, but rather its branches in each country are regulated differently. Data and personnel are often not shared across branches, which hinders technology-driven rationalization across the company. Good luck, asshole bankers, regulation protects you from Web2 but will kill you in Web3.
These banks will certainly not work with third parties on the technical development or distribution of stablecoins. They will do it all themselves. In fact, regulators may explicitly prohibit this. Therefore, the bank distribution channel is closed to entrepreneurs who build their own stablecoin technology. I don’t care how many proofs of concept an issuer claims to be running for a traditional bank. They will never lead to full bank adoption. So if you’re an investor, if a promoter of a stablecoin issuer claims they will partner with a traditional bank to bring their product to market, run.
Now that you understand the difficulties new entrants face in getting stablecoins to scale, let’s explore why they would even attempt the impossible. Because being a stablecoin issuer is incredibly lucrative.
The profitability of a stablecoin issuer is determined by the amount of net interest income (NIM). The issuer’s cost basis is the fees paid to holders, and the revenue comes from returns on cash investments in Treasury bills (such as Tether and Circle) or arbitrage in some cryptocurrency market, such as cash holdings trading (such as Ethena). The most profitable issuer, Tether, pays no fees to USDT holders or depositors, and earns all NIM based on the yield level of Treasury bills (T-bills).
Tether is able to keep all of its net interest income (NIM) because it has the strongest network effect and its customers have no choice but to have a USD bank account. Potential customers will not choose another USD stablecoin other than USDT because USDT is accepted throughout the southern hemisphere. A personal example is how I pay for my ski season in Argentina. I spend a few weeks each year skiing in the Argentine countryside. When I first went to Argentina in 2018, paying was a hassle if the merchant didn’t accept foreign credit cards. But in 2023, USDT has replaced USDT because my guide, driver, and chef all accept USDT. This is great because even if I wanted to pay in pesos, I couldn’t; bank ATMs only take out $30 worth of pesos per transaction and charge a 30% fee. Long live Tether, damn criminal. It is great for my employees to be able to receive digital dollars stored on a cryptocurrency exchange or mobile wallet and easily use them to purchase goods and services at home and abroad.
Tether's profitability is the best advertisement for social media companies and banks to create stablecoins. These two giants do not have to pay deposit fees because they already have a solid distribution network, which means they can get all the net income (NIM). Therefore, this can be a huge source of profit for them.
Tether's annual profit is much higher than this chart estimates. This chart assumes that all reserve assets are invested in 12-month Treasury bonds. Its purpose is to show that Tether's earnings are highly correlated with US interest rates. You can see that Tether's earnings jumped significantly between 2021 and 2022 as the Fed raised rates at the fastest pace since the early 1980s.
Here's a table from my article "Dust on Crust Part Deux" that uses 2023 data to prove that Tether is the most profitable bank per capita in the world.
Unless your stablecoin is owned by a captive exchange, social media company, or traditional bank, issuing a stablecoin can be very expensive. Bitfinex and Tether were founded by the same people. Bitfinex has millions of customers, so Tether has millions of customers from the start. Tether doesn’t have to pay issuance fees because it’s partially owned by Bitfinex, and all altcoins trade against USDT. Circle, and any other stablecoin that comes after it, will have to pay distribution fees through exchanges in some way. Social media companies and banks will never work with a third party to build and operate their stablecoins; therefore, crypto exchanges are the only option. Crypto exchanges can build their own stablecoins, as Binance tried to do with BUSD, but ultimately many exchanges decided that building a payment network was too difficult and distracted from their core business. Exchanges require equity in the issuer or a portion of the issuer’s net proceeds (NIM) in order to trade their stablecoin. But even so, it’s likely that all crypto/USD trading pairs will be pegged to USDT, meaning Tether will continue to dominate. That’s why Circle had to rope in Coinbase to compete. Coinbase is the only major exchange not in Tether’s orbit, as Coinbase’s clients are primarily American and Western European. Tether was being slammed as some kind of foreign-made scam by the Western media until U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnik took a fancy to Tether and banked it through his firm Cantor Fitzgerald. Coinbase, whose existence depended on its favor with U.S. politicians, had to look for an alternative. So Jeremy Allaire took over the job and took Brian Armstrong’s deal.
The deal was that Circle would pay Coinbase 50% of its net interest income in exchange for the distribution of USDC throughout the Coinbase network. Yachtzee!!
The situation for new stablecoin issuers is dire. Lack of open distribution channels. All major crypto exchanges either own or partner with existing issuers Tether, Circle, and Ethena. Social media companies and banks will build their own solutions. Therefore, new issuers must pass on a lot of net income (NIM) to depositors to pull them away from other stablecoins with higher adoption. Ultimately, this is why investors will lose everything on almost every publicly listed stablecoin issuer or technology provider at the end of the cycle. But that won't stop the party; let's dig deeper into why investors' judgment is blinded by the huge profit potential of stablecoins.
In addition to holding Bitcoin and other shitcoins, there are three business models for creating crypto wealth. They are mining, operating exchanges, and issuing stablecoins. In my own case, my wealth comes from my holdings in BitMEX (a derivatives exchange), while Maelstrom (my family office)'s largest holding and largest absolute source of return is Ethena, a stablecoin issuer in the USDE. In 2024, Ethena has gone from nothing to the third largest stablecoin in less than a year.
The stablecoin narrative is unique in that it has the largest and most obvious TAM (addressable market) of the traditional finance (TradFi) figureheads. Tether has proven that an on-chain bank that simply holds people's funds and allows them to transfer them can become the most profitable financial institution per capita ever. Tether has succeeded in the face of enforcement actions from all levels of the US government. What would happen if US authorities were at least non-hostile to stablecoins and allowed them to have a certain degree of operating freedom to compete with traditional banks for deposits? The profit potential is staggering.
Now let's consider the current situation: US Treasury officials believe that the issuance scale (AUC) of stablecoins could grow to $2 trillion. They also believe that USD stablecoins can be the vanguard of advancing/maintaining USD hegemony and acting as price-insensitive buyers of US Treasuries. Wow, that’s a strong macro tailwind. To make it even more surprising, don’t forget Trump’s deep hatred for big banks because they deprived him and his family’s companies of banking services after his first term as president. He has no intention of stopping the free market from providing better, faster, and safer ways to hold and transfer digital dollars. Even his sons have joined the stablecoin bandwagon.
This is why investors are so eager for investable stablecoin projects. Before we get into how I translate this statement into capital investment opportunities, let me define the criteria for investable projects.
The issuer can be listed in some form on the US public stock market. Next, the issuer will launch a product for trading digital dollars; this is not one of those foreign things, this is “American product”. That’s it, as you can see, there are a lot of blanks to get creative with.
The most notable IPO of a stablecoin issuer is Circle. They are a US company and the second largest stablecoin issuer in the world by issuance. Circle is currently overvalued. Remember, Circle gives 50% of its interest income to Coinbase. Yet Circle's market cap is 39% of Coinbase's. Coinbase is a one-stop crypto finance shop with multiple profitable business lines and tens of millions of customers around the world. Circle is good at "talking big", and while this is a very valuable skill, they still need to improve their skills and take care of their "stepchildren".
Don't ever short Circle! If you think the Circle/Coinbase ratio is wrong, maybe you should buy Coinbase. Although Circle is overvalued, many investors will regret holding Circle in the stablecoin craze in a few years. At least they will still have some principal left.
The next wave of listings will be Circle's copycats. These stocks will trade at higher P/AUCs than Circle in relative terms. In absolute terms, their revenues will never surpass Circle’s. Promoters will tout meaningless TradFi credentials, trying to convince investors that they have the connections and capabilities to disrupt traditional banks in global USD payments by partnering with them or leveraging their distribution channels. The gimmick will work; issuers will raise huge amounts of money. For those of us who have been in the trenches for a while, it’s hilarious to watch these uniformed clowns fool the investing public into investing in their lousy companies.
After the first wave, the scale of the fraud depends entirely on the stablecoin regulation that is enacted in the US. The more freedom issuers have in what underpins the stablecoin and whether or not to pay out yields to holders, the more likely they are to use financial engineering and leverage to cover up scandals. If you assume a light or even no-touch stablecoin regulation regime, then you might see a repeat of Terra/Luna, with issuers creating some silly algorithmic stablecoin Ponzi scheme. Issuers can pay holders high returns, and those returns come from leveraging some of their assets.
As you can see, I have nothing to say about the future. There is no real future, because the distribution channels for new entrants have closed. Forget about it. Trade this stuff like a hot potato.
But don't short it. These new stocks will tear the short sellers to pieces. The macro and the micro are in sync. As former Citigroup CEO Chuck Prince said when asked if his company was involved in subprime mortgages, "When the music stops, it gets complicated in terms of liquidity. But as long as the music is playing, you have to get up and dance. We're still dancing."
I'm not sure how Maelstrom will participate in the dance, but if there's money to be made, we'll do it.
The SEC, Tron Foundation, and Justin Sun have asked a federal court to pause the 2023 lawsuit to explore a resolution. The case involves allegations of unregistered TRX and BTT sales, market manipulation, and undisclosed celebrity endorsements.
KikyoMetro Singapore has teamed up with dtcpay to enable stablecoin payments for online and in-store purchases at Metro Paragon and Metro Woodlands, supporting USDT, USDC, FDUSD, and WUSD.
CatherinePayPal is expanding its PYUSD stablecoin to 20 million small and medium-sized merchants for payments and bill payments, aiming to simplify cross-border transactions. The company is also integrating PYUSD into its global payment service, Hyperwallet, to further drive adoption and support international business.
AnaisChinese grandmothers are going viral for believing AI-generated images of babies cooking are real, sparking the term "AI grandsons." This raises the question: is it more comforting to accept these virtual creations as real, or does this blur between reality and illusion have deeper implications?
KikyoOn-chain data shows that insiders linked to MELANIA and LIBRA tokens moved large sums through multiple wallets, raising concerns about money laundering.
AnaisAmidst slowed cloud growth and rising AI investments, Google’s layoffs reflect a strategic shift to optimise resources and stay competitive.
CatherineYesterday Previous 7 Days Upgrade plan More access to the best models ChatGPT Share J You said: Looking to seek to clear his name, he stated, “I am not a member of any organization. Most of the defendants do not know me, and I do not know them. I request acquittal.” improve this sentence ChatGPT said: In an effort to clear his name, he stated, “I am not affiliated with any organization. I do not know most of the defendants, and they do not know me. I ask for acquittal.” You said: Founder of Turkish Ponzi Scheme Sentenced to 45,000+ Years in Prison Mehmet Aydın, the mastermind behind the mobile gaming app Çiftlik Bank (Farm Bank), has been handed an extraordinary sentence of 45,376 years and six months in prison. The conviction comes after Aydın was found guilty of embezzling large sums of money from hundreds of thousands of victims, both local and international. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kind of a long sentence: The founders of Çiftlik Bank, Mehmet Aydın & Fatih Aydın, were sentenced to 45,376 years and 6 months in prison each today .The penalty was issued for their involvement in what has been described as a Ponzi scheme, where they were accused of defrauding… <a href="https://t.co/JLB4wP1YlJ">pic.twitter.com/JLB4wP1YlJ</a></p>— GlobalMacroZen (@GlobalMacroZen) <a href="https://twitter.com/GlobalMacroZen/status/1886449911740178724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The Rise and Fall of Çiftlik Bank Launched in 2016, Çiftlik Bank quickly gained attention with its game mechanics resembling the popular Farmville. IMAGE Players could "invest" in virtual livestock, believing their money would be used to finance a massive dairy farm project. Instead, the game operated as a Ponzi scheme, enticing over 350,000 Turkish investors and an additional 150,000 foreigners to part with their money, amounting to more than 1.1 billion Turkish lira (around $131 million). Aydin's Flight and Arrest Despite the scam’s collapse in early 2018, Aydın fled to Uruguay with a significant portion of the stolen funds. His extravagant lifestyle there, including driving a Ferrari, drew the attention of authorities, triggering a manhunt. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">Çiftlik Bank'ın kurucusu Tosuncuk lakaplı Mehmet Aydın'ın yat keyfi <br><br>132 bin 222 kişiyi 1 milyar 139 milyon 972 bin TL dolandırdı. <a href="https://t.co/QS3igijGXU">pic.twitter.com/QS3igijGXU</a></p>— ENSONHABER (@ensonhaber) <a href="https://twitter.com/ensonhaber/status/1147076367844089857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> After evading capture for over three years, Aydın eventually turned himself in at the Turkish embassy in Sao Paolo, Brazil, in 2021, where he was extradited back to Turkey to face trial. Defiant Claims of Innocence At his sentencing hearing, Aydın firmly rejected the accusations. He insisted, "I did not intend to defraud anyone; I had no intention of committing fraud.” He claimed that his assets, which had been frozen by authorities, prevented him from compensating victims. He suggested that the interest accumulated on the seized funds could be used for restitution. Despite his protests, the court proceeded with the sentence, convicting him of multiple charges, including fraud, money laundering, and establishing a criminal organisation. A Brother's Defence Aydın’s brother, Fatih Aydın, who also faced charges related to the scheme, similarly denied any involvement. In an effort to clear his name, he stated, “I am not a member of any organisation. Most of the defendants do not know me, and I do not know them. I request acquittal.” The Long Legal Battle The trial began in 2019, with prosecutors initially seeking over 75,000 years in prison for Aydın and his brother. Their conviction for fraud through information systems, money laundering, and other serious crimes has brought to a close a dramatic case that shocked many in Turkey and beyond. Aydın's sentence is one of the longest in Turkish history, signalling the seriousness with which the authorities are tackling large-scale financial crimes. Despite his claims of innocence, the massive scale of the fraud and the suffering of victims has led to his lengthy prison sentence. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Mehmet Aydın, founder of Çiftlik Bank, was sentenced to 45,376 years in prison for running a Ponzi scheme that defrauded over 500,000 people. He fled to Uruguay but was later extradited to Turkey, where he denied the charges but was convicted of fraud and money laundering. You said: Despite the regulatory uncertainties, the continued interest from major exchanges like Coinbase and Binance suggests that India’s crypto market holds significant potential, both for local and international players. humanise, less ai ChatGPT said: Even with the regulatory uncertainties, the ongoing interest from big exchanges like Coinbase and Binance shows that India’s crypto market still has a lot of potential, attracting both local and global players. 2/2 You said: Coinbase’s Push to Re-enter India’s Crypto Market After over a year of halting operations in India, Coinbase is actively pursuing a return to one of the world's largest crypto markets. The American crypto exchange, which ceased operations in India in 2023, is currently engaging with Indian regulators to ensure it meets compliance requirements, aiming to relaunch its services in the country. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">According to TechCrunch, Coinbase is planning to return to the Indian market and has already contacted regulators such as the Indian Financial Intelligence Bureau (FIU). Coinbase first entered the Indian market in April 2022, but was forced to suspend operations after only three…</p>— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) <a href="https://twitter.com/WuBlockchain/status/1889939385598271636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> This move marks part of Coinbase’s broader strategy for global expansion, despite the challenges posed by India’s stringent crypto regulations. Renewed Focus on Indian Market Amid Regulatory Landscape The company is in talks with key Indian authorities, including the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), the agency tasked with monitoring financial transactions in the country. According to sources familiar with the matter, the ongoing discussions are pivotal for Coinbase’s potential re-entry. Coinbase has made it clear that it is committed to following local regulations. A company spokesperson shared, “We are excited about the opportunities in India and are committed to complying with local regulations.” Binance Sets Precedent for Foreign Exchanges Coinbase’s potential return follows the footsteps of its competitor, Binance, which resumed operations in India in August 2023 after resolving regulatory hurdles. Binance’s successful re-entry established a significant precedent for other global crypto exchanges aiming to operate in India. The crypto giant had faced similar regulatory concerns before it could obtain the necessary approvals to resume trading in the country. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BREAKING: 🇮🇳 Binance is officially registered with India's Financial Intelligence Unit. <a href="https://t.co/iIaiiiFA0Y">pic.twitter.com/iIaiiiFA0Y</a></p>— Kashif Raza (@simplykashif) <a href="https://twitter.com/simplykashif/status/1788883231867093295?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Challenges in Coinbase’s Previous Attempt Coinbase initially launched its services in India in April 2022, only to face immediate setbacks. The exchange introduced support for India’s widely used United Payments Interface (UPI) system, but the service was halted within just three days. India’s National Payments Corporation refused to acknowledge Coinbase’s operations, prompting a swift suspension. The company later disclosed that informal pressure from the Reserve Bank of India had contributed to this abrupt stop. Despite cryptocurrency trading not being illegal in India, many financial institutions refuse to engage with virtual asset firms due to the central bank's stance. Policy Adjustments and Regulatory Uncertainty While India has imposed a 30% tax on crypto income and a 1% tax on each transaction, the future of crypto in the country remains uncertain. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇮🇳 India is revisiting its crypto policy amid global shifts - DEA Secretary Ajay Seth <br><br>30% tax on crypto gains & 1% TDS still in place. <a href="https://t.co/OVfECF7iOL">pic.twitter.com/OVfECF7iOL</a></p>— Ajay Kashyap (@EverythingAjay) <a href="https://twitter.com/EverythingAjay/status/1887030107652374622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The government’s tax policies have made the market less attractive for investors, despite the growing adoption of digital assets. In light of global policy shifts, India may yet adopt a more lenient approach to crypto regulation. If Coinbase successfully navigates these regulatory hurdles, its return could offer more choices for Indian traders, potentially fostering greater adoption of cryptocurrencies. Strengthening Ties with India’s Financial Sector Coinbase’s interest in India also reflects a wider trend in U.S.-India relations, particularly in the financial sector. Recently, Coinbase’s Chief Legal Officer, Paul Grewal, joined the U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) board, signalling a stronger partnership between the two nations. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The U.S.-India Business Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Grewal (<a href="https://twitter.com/iampaulgrewal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iampaulgrewal</a>), Chief Legal Officer, <a href="https://twitter.com/coinbase?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@coinbase</a>, to the USIBC Global Board of Directors. <br><br>Welcoming the new member, USIBC President Ambassador <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbKeshap?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAmbKeshap</a> said, "Paul Grewal’s leadership in… <a href="https://t.co/UPxxptlQ4K">pic.twitter.com/UPxxptlQ4K</a></p>— U.S.-India Business Council (@USIBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/USIBC/status/1889673069205311683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Grewal emphasised the importance of India’s growing web3 ecosystem, noting, “India has one of the largest and fastest-growing web3 ecosystems in the world, with a booming developer community, pioneering startups, and bold institutional adoption.” Competitive Market Landscape in India India’s crypto market has become more competitive in recent years, particularly with the exit of WazirX, once a leading local exchange, following a significant loss of funds. As a result, CoinSwitch and CoinDCX have emerged as the dominant players in the Indian market, with both platforms receiving backing from Coinbase. If Coinbase can clear the necessary regulatory requirements, it could capitalise on this gap in the market, offering Indian traders an additional trusted platform. Despite the regulatory uncertainties, big exchanges like Coinbase and Binance are still showing interest in India’s crypto market, hinting at its strong potential for both local and global investors. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Coinbase is trying to restart its crypto operations in India after stopping them in 2023 due to regulatory issues. It is working with Indian authorities to meet compliance rules, following Binance’s successful return to the market. You said: As more countries open up to institutional crypto trading, South Korea’s regulatory steps reflect the growing recognition of the need for robust, flexible frameworks to support the expansion of blockchain technology and digital assets. humanise, less ai 2/2 ChatGPT said: As more countries embrace institutional crypto trading, South Korea's regulatory moves show a growing understanding of the need for strong, adaptable rules to support the growth of blockchain and digital assets. You said: South Korea Set to Allow Institutions to Sell Crypto Assets in 2025 South Korea's Financial Services Commission (FSC) has announced plans to relax regulations on the sale of cryptocurrencies, allowing institutions such as charities, universities, and crypto exchanges to liquidate their digital assets in 2025. This development comes after a growing demand from the institutional sector for increased involvement in the crypto market, signalling a shift in the country’s approach to digital asset trading. Crypto Donations: New Opportunities for Charities and Universities As part of the new framework, the FSC will enable charitable organisations and universities to sell the cryptocurrency donations they have received. This move is expected to be implemented in the second quarter of 2025, opening the door for these institutions to convert their digital assets into cash. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">JUST IN 🚨<br><br>South Korea to reportedly allow charities, universities, and exchanges to sell donated crypto in Q2 2025, with broader institutional access planned later this year.🇰🇷💰</p>— Moby Media (@mobymedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mobymedia/status/1889943378898620866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The policy aims to streamline processes for entities holding crypto assets, addressing concerns about their use for funding purposes. The FSC's decision is seen as a response to the increasing interest in corporate participation within the crypto space. The regulator has acknowledged that these moves are in line with broader global trends where major markets are easing restrictions on institutional crypto trading. Crypto Exchanges to Sell Assets for Operational Costs In addition to institutional investors, South Korean crypto exchanges will also be permitted to sell their crypto holdings. These holdings, which are typically collected as transaction fees, will now be available for sale, allowing exchanges to cover essential operating costs like payroll and taxes. However, the FSC has noted potential risks of conflicts of interest, which may arise from mass sales of crypto assets by exchanges. To mitigate these concerns, the sale process will be gradually implemented, and a common set of guidelines will be established among operators. Pilot Programs for Corporate Accounts and Investment The FSC's decision to allow institutions to engage in crypto transactions marks a significant policy shift. The first step will involve a pilot program, which will begin in the first half of 2025. This initiative will allow around 3,500 listed companies and registered professional investors to open "real-name" accounts for crypto trading. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇰🇷 BREAKING: South Korea plans to allow institutional crypto trading by gradually issuing real-name accounts to corporations, starting with non-profits. <a href="https://t.co/V2J6q5a98b">pic.twitter.com/V2J6q5a98b</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1876955109290041651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The pilot is part of the regulator’s plan to assess the market and introduce real-time investment opportunities for institutional investors. A Shift Toward Institutional Crypto Trading The FSC's announcement reflects an evolving stance on virtual assets in South Korea. The country has historically maintained strict regulations on institutional crypto activity, especially since 2017, to prevent speculation and address concerns related to money laundering. However, with the growing demand for blockchain-based services and crypto adoption, the regulator is gradually lifting these restrictions to better align with global trends. Regulations and Future Development Looking ahead, South Korea's crypto regulatory framework, which went into effect in July 2024, is set for expansion. The FSC has already initiated discussions to create a follow-up regulation to address emerging issues in the market. These changes aim to ensure that the country’s crypto market remains secure and resilient, with a focus on protecting investors while encouraging innovation. South Korea’s role as one of the largest crypto markets in the world continues to grow. Upbit, a prominent South Korean exchange, ranks as the fourth-largest centralised exchange by monthly volume globally, reinforcing the country’s strong position in the crypto industry. A Global Shift Towards Crypto Adoption The FSC's recent actions show how cryptocurrency regulations are shifting, not only in South Korea but globally as well. As more countries open up to institutional crypto trading, South Korea’s regulatory steps reflect the growing recognition of the need for robust, flexible frameworks to support the expansion of blockchain technology and digital assets. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: South Korea plans to allow institutions like charities, universities, and crypto exchanges to sell crypto assets starting in 2025, helping them convert donations and transaction fees into cash. The move reflects a shift in the country’s approach to crypto, with pilot programs for corporate accounts set to begin in the first half of 2025. You said: "Memecoins can seem like an easy way to make money, but they come with a high risk of financial loss," VARA cautioned. convert to statement, impactful 4/4 ChatGPT said: Memecoins may seem like a quick way to make money, but they carry a high risk of financial loss, warned VARA. 4/4 You said: In this unpredictable market, VARA’s guidance is crucial to protecting investors from the risks of engaging with unregulated or poorly structured projects. humanise, too AI, more natural and add one comment 4/4 ChatGPT said: In this unpredictable market, VARA's advice is key to helping investors avoid the risks of getting involved with unregulated or poorly structured projects. It's a reminder to always approach with caution, especially when things seem too good to be true. 2/2 You said: VARA Warns Investors Over Risks of Memecoins Dubai’s regulatory body for digital assets, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), has issued a serious warning to investors about the high risks associated with memecoins. These cryptocurrencies, which often lack any tangible utility or intrinsic value, have become a source of concern due to their extreme volatility and vulnerability to manipulation. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇦🇪 NEW: Dubai’s crypto regulator says memecoins issued in the emirate must comply with VARA regulations. <a href="https://t.co/eUCQQk2fRe">pic.twitter.com/eUCQQk2fRe</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1890883948093280604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Memecoins Are Driven by Trends, Not Value While many traditional cryptocurrencies have real-world applications or at least a functional use case, memecoins are largely driven by social media trends. Their popularity often surges thanks to influencers promoting them, but once the hype dies down, investors can be left with tokens that rapidly lose value. VARA has pointed out that these tokens can fluctuate wildly in short periods, leaving investors with substantial losses. In a study conducted by Coinwire, 76% of memecoins promoted by influencers on X (formerly Twitter) are now worthless, highlighting how many of these tokens are short-lived. The study also showed that 80% of these hyped memecoins lost more than 70% of their value within just a week. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">According to a Coinwire research report, 76% of cryptocurrency influencers on the X have promoted Memecoins that have now returned to zero, only 1% of the promoted Memecoins have achieved a tenfold increase, and 80% of the promoted Memecoins have plummeted by 70% in a week.… <a href="https://t.co/EWmmymAS2N">pic.twitter.com/EWmmymAS2N</a></p>— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) <a href="https://twitter.com/WuBlockchain/status/1860902472929411511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Many investors are losing significant money because they trust influencers without doing proper research. Regulatory Crackdown on Memecoin Issuers As Dubai's cryptocurrency sector continues to grow, VARA is tightening its control over the issuance of memecoins. The authority has made it clear that any entity looking to issue a memecoin from Dubai must comply with its regulations, which include strict rules on marketing and transparency. Failure to adhere to these guidelines could lead to severe consequences, including platform restrictions and even fines. VARA’s regulations, which were introduced in 2023, stipulate that any marketing or promotional activity around digital assets must not mislead investors. In addition, businesses involved in the promotion of these speculative assets are required to disclose all associated risks clearly. Violating these rules could result in fines of up to $135,000. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇦🇪 BREAKING: Dubai’s VARA mandates memecoins comply with strict regulations, including transparent marketing, with fines up to $135K for violations, reinforcing investor protection under its 2023 Full Market Product Regulations. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CryptoNews?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CryptoNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubaiCrypto?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubaiCrypto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MemecoinRegulations?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MemecoinRegulations</a> <a href="https://t.co/OR7DGLuSnN">pic.twitter.com/OR7DGLuSnN</a></p>— CryptoMarketControl (@CryptoMarketCon) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMarketCon/status/1890975465378131993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Global Focus on Memecoin Risks Intensifies VARA’s warning is part of a broader global trend, with regulators in other countries also stepping up their scrutiny of memecoin projects. The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has recently issued a cautionary notice about a Solana-based memecoin, Retardio, highlighting that investors in this token might not be covered by financial compensation schemes in the UK. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 TODAY: The UK's Financial Conduct Authority has warned against Retardio.<br><br>They state, "This firm may be providing or promoting financial services or products without our permission. You should avoid dealing with this firm and beware of scams." <a href="https://t.co/2DK52eo53D">pic.twitter.com/2DK52eo53D</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1868698457156075952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> With memecoins contributing to a market cap of $81.1 billion, their appeal is undeniable. However, VARA made it clear that these tokens are often manipulated and linked to fraudulent schemes. Investors are urged to scrutinise promotional material and ensure they are not being misled by unrealistic promises of high returns. Regulations Offer Protection, But Investors Must Stay Vigilant Dubai’s growing influence as a global crypto hub has brought stricter regulatory measures. VARA’s crackdown is intended to create a more secure and transparent environment for digital asset trading. Investors are reminded to exercise caution when considering memecoin investments, especially those with no clear roadmap or utility. Memecoins may look like a quick way to make money, but they carry a high risk of financial loss. The authority also mentioned that it could restrict access to memecoin platforms without prior notice, increasing the uncertainty around these speculative assets. In this unpredictable market, VARA’s guidance is crucial to protecting investors from the risks of engaging with unregulated or poorly structured projects. It's a reminder to always approach with caution, especially when things seem too good to be true. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: VARA has issued a warning about the high risks of memecoins, stressing their volatility and potential for manipulation. The authority is enforcing strict regulations on their issuance and promotion, with fines for non-compliance, to protect investors. You said: VARA Warns Investors Over Risks of Memecoins Dubai’s regulatory body for digital assets, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), has issued a serious warning to investors about the high risks associated with memecoins. These cryptocurrencies, which often lack any tangible utility or intrinsic value, have become a source of concern due to their extreme volatility and vulnerability to manipulation. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇦🇪 NEW: Dubai’s crypto regulator says memecoins issued in the emirate must comply with VARA regulations. <a href="https://t.co/eUCQQk2fRe">pic.twitter.com/eUCQQk2fRe</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1890883948093280604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Memecoins Are Driven by Trends, Not Value While many traditional cryptocurrencies have real-world applications or at least a functional use case, memecoins are largely driven by social media trends. Their popularity often surges thanks to influencers promoting them, but once the hype dies down, investors can be left with tokens that rapidly lose value. VARA has pointed out that these tokens can fluctuate wildly in short periods, leaving investors with substantial losses. In a study conducted by Coinwire, 76% of memecoins promoted by influencers on X (formerly Twitter) are now worthless, highlighting how many of these tokens are short-lived. The study also showed that 80% of these hyped memecoins lost more than 70% of their value within just a week. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">According to a Coinwire research report, 76% of cryptocurrency influencers on the X have promoted Memecoins that have now returned to zero, only 1% of the promoted Memecoins have achieved a tenfold increase, and 80% of the promoted Memecoins have plummeted by 70% in a week.… <a href="https://t.co/EWmmymAS2N">pic.twitter.com/EWmmymAS2N</a></p>— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) <a href="https://twitter.com/WuBlockchain/status/1860902472929411511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Many investors are losing significant money because they trust influencers without doing proper research. Regulatory Crackdown on Memecoin Issuers As Dubai's cryptocurrency sector continues to grow, VARA is tightening its control over the issuance of memecoins. The authority has made it clear that any entity looking to issue a memecoin from Dubai must comply with its regulations, which include strict rules on marketing and transparency. Failure to adhere to these guidelines could lead to severe consequences, including platform restrictions and even fines. VARA’s regulations, which were introduced in 2023, stipulate that any marketing or promotional activity around digital assets must not mislead investors. In addition, businesses involved in the promotion of these speculative assets are required to disclose all associated risks clearly. Violating these rules could result in fines of up to $135,000. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇦🇪 BREAKING: Dubai’s VARA mandates memecoins comply with strict regulations, including transparent marketing, with fines up to $135K for violations, reinforcing investor protection under its 2023 Full Market Product Regulations. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CryptoNews?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CryptoNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DubaiCrypto?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DubaiCrypto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MemecoinRegulations?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MemecoinRegulations</a> <a href="https://t.co/OR7DGLuSnN">pic.twitter.com/OR7DGLuSnN</a></p>— CryptoMarketControl (@CryptoMarketCon) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMarketCon/status/1890975465378131993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Global Focus on Memecoin Risks Intensifies VARA’s warning is part of a broader global trend, with regulators in other countries also stepping up their scrutiny of memecoin projects. The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has recently issued a cautionary notice about a Solana-based memecoin, Retardio, highlighting that investors in this token might not be covered by financial compensation schemes in the UK. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 TODAY: The UK's Financial Conduct Authority has warned against Retardio.<br><br>They state, "This firm may be providing or promoting financial services or products without our permission. You should avoid dealing with this firm and beware of scams." <a href="https://t.co/2DK52eo53D">pic.twitter.com/2DK52eo53D</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1868698457156075952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> With memecoins contributing to a market cap of $81.1 billion, their appeal is undeniable. However, VARA made it clear that these tokens are often manipulated and linked to fraudulent schemes. Investors are urged to scrutinise promotional material and ensure they are not being misled by unrealistic promises of high returns. Regulations Offer Protection, But Investors Must Stay Vigilant Dubai’s growing influence as a global crypto hub has brought stricter regulatory measures. VARA’s crackdown is intended to create a more secure and transparent environment for digital asset trading. Investors are reminded to exercise caution when considering memecoin investments, especially those with no clear roadmap or utility. Memecoins may look like a quick way to make money, but they carry a high risk of financial loss. The authority also mentioned that it could restrict access to memecoin platforms without prior notice, increasing the uncertainty around these speculative assets. In this unpredictable market, VARA’s guidance is crucial to protecting investors from the risks of engaging with unregulated or poorly structured projects. It's a reminder to always approach with caution, especially when things seem too good to be true. suggest a captivating twitter caption with limited character count about the above context. no hashtag and emojis. end with a question, asking like will this warning be effective, considering strong influence and hype. 4/4 ChatGPT said: VARA issues a stark warning about the dangers of memecoins, urging investors to be cautious of their extreme volatility and manipulative tactics. Will this cautionary message be enough to counter the hype and influencer-driven trends? You said: However, Musk’s ambitions suggest he intends to close the gap as he continues to push for advancements in artificial intelligence. humanise, more natural, less ai rewrite, improve. 5/5 ChatGPT said: Musk's ambitions indicate he's determined to narrow the gap as he pushes forward with developments in artificial intelligence. You said: Elon Musk Unveils Grok 3 as xAI Enters Competitive AI Market Elon Musk has confirmed the release of Grok 3, the latest AI chatbot developed by his startup xAI. The announcement came via his social media platform, X, where he called it the “smartest AI on Earth.” The launch will be accompanied by a live demonstration at 12:00 PM UTC+8 on 18 February 2025. Musk stated that he would be offline until the launch, as he and his team are working on refining the product. He wrote, "Will be honing product with the team all weekend, so offline until then," <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Will be honing product with the team all weekend, so offline until then</p>— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1890959216724115790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Grok 3's Training and Capabilities Unlike traditional AI models, Grok 3 has been trained on synthetic data and features a self-correction mechanism that allows it to review its own outputs for logical accuracy. This approach is expected to enhance its ability to reason and minimise errors. The development of Grok 3 was accelerated by xAI’s Colossus supercomputer, which became operational eight months ago. Equipped with 100,000 Nvidia H100 GPUs, it provided 200 million GPU hours for training—ten times more than its predecessor, Grok 2. This significant increase in computing power has enabled the model to process vast datasets faster and more efficiently. xAI has also refined its training methodology by integrating synthetic datasets, reinforcement learning, and self-improvement techniques. These advancements aim to improve the chatbot’s performance and reliability. Musk's Vision for Grok 3 Shared in Dubai During the World Government Summit in Dubai earlier this week, Musk expressed high expectations for Grok 3. He claimed, “I think Grok 3 is kind of scary smart. [...] Grok 3 is scary. It's like, wow, this thing comes up with solutions that you didn't even think were, like you wouldn't even anticipate.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Elon Musk praised his upcoming Grok 3 chatbot as an AI model outperforming everything else that’s been released thus far, and said the world would get to see it in a matter of weeks <a href="https://t.co/681GBMTqJ6">https://t.co/681GBMTqJ6</a> <a href="https://t.co/4uLBPiIWSN">pic.twitter.com/4uLBPiIWSN</a></p>— Bloomberg (@business) <a href="https://twitter.com/business/status/1889951974889521213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> He highlighted its ability to learn from its mistakes by reviewing its data for logical consistency. Musk’s Bid for OpenAI Rejected Grok 3’s release follows news of a failed acquisition attempt by Musk and a group of investors, who reportedly offered $97.4 billion to acquire OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. The bid aimed to reverse OpenAI’s transition from a nonprofit research organisation to a for-profit entity. Musk’s attorney, Marc Toberoff, stated that the intention was to "retake control" of OpenAI and restore its original mission. However, OpenAI’s board rejected the proposal. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, responded on X, saying, "No thank you but we will buy Twitter for $9.74bn if you want." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">no thank you but we will buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want</p>— Sam Altman (@sama) <a href="https://twitter.com/sama/status/1889059531625464090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has responded to the WSJ's story on an Elon Musk buyout of OpenAI for $97.4 billion saying:<br><br>"no thank you but we will buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want"<br><br>Elon Musk, in response, called Sam Altman: "Swindler"</p>— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) <a href="https://twitter.com/unusual_whales/status/1889062465557991862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> DeepSeek’s Rise Adds to AI Competition Meanwhile, the AI industry has been shaken by the rise of DeepSeek, a Chinese startup that recently launched a low-cost, high-performance chatbot. Its rapid adoption saw it surpass ChatGPT in downloads on the Apple App Store, challenging US dominance in AI development. Funding and Market Position xAI has been aggressively expanding, securing $6 billion in funding in December 2024 from investors including Nvidia, AMD, and investment funds from Saudi Arabia and Qatar. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Announcing our Series C of $6B to accelerate our progress<br><br>Investors participating include a16z, Blackrock, Fidelity, Kingdom Holdings, Lightspeed, MGX, Morgan Stanley, OIA, QIA, Sequoia Capital, Valor Equity Partners, Vy Capital, Nvidia, AMD, among others</p>— xAI (@xai) <a href="https://twitter.com/xai/status/1871313084280644079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ar" dir="rtl">يسر شركة المملكة القابضة أن تعلن عن أحدث استثماراتها في شركة <a href="https://twitter.com/xai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@xai</a>، الشركة الرائدة في مجال الذكاء الاصطناعي (AI)، مع <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> وصاحب السمو الملكي الأمير <a href="https://twitter.com/Alwaleed_Talal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Alwaleed_Talal</a> (الاستثمارات الخاصة لسموه) وشركات استثمارية أخرى من ضمنها:<br>Valor Equity Partners, Vy Capital, Andreessen… <a href="https://t.co/G76jTnfYEN">pic.twitter.com/G76jTnfYEN</a></p>— شركة المملكة القابضة (@Kingdom_KHC) <a href="https://twitter.com/Kingdom_KHC/status/1795474054356295708?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> This followed an initial $6 billion funding round in May 2024. Despite its rapid growth, xAI remains smaller than OpenAI. However, Musk's ambitions indicate he is determined to narrow the gap as he pushes forward with developments in artificial intelligence. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. 3/3 ChatGPT said: Elon Musk has announced the release of Grok 3, an advanced AI chatbot developed by his company xAI, which features self-correction and enhanced training using synthetic data. This launch follows Musk’s failed bid to acquire OpenAI, while xAI continues to grow with significant funding and faces increasing competition from startups like DeepSeek. 2/2 You said: focus on grok 3 and what musk says about it ChatGPT said: Elon Musk has unveiled Grok 3, a new AI chatbot from xAI, calling it the "smartest AI on Earth" with the ability to self-correct and improve its logical accuracy. Musk described Grok 3 as "scary smart," capable of offering unexpected solutions and learning from its mistakes. 2/2 You said: Zhao Changpeng, the founder of Binance, has stepped in with a substantial commitment to aid Argentine students affected by the sudden collapse of the LIBRA token. In an effort to alleviate the financial burdens caused by the collapse, CZ, as he is commonly known, pledged 150 BNB, valued at around $100,000, through EnHeng’s charitable initiative. This gesture adds to the $50,000 already donated by EnHeng, a prominent encrypted KOL, to establish a relief fund aimed at supporting those who invested in the token. suggest a title, short and simple 2/2 ChatGPT said: "Zhao Changpeng Donates $100K to Support Argentine Students After LIBRA Collapse" You said: In an effort to alleviate the financial burdens caused by the collapse and showing support to the EnHeng’s charity move, CZ, as he is commonly known, he responded, improve 2/2 ChatGPT said: In an effort to alleviate the financial burdens caused by the collapse and to support EnHeng’s charitable initiative, CZ, as he is commonly known, responded: You said: He has pledged 150 BNB, valued at around $100,000. what does this pledged means ChatGPT said: "Pledged" in this context means that Zhao Changpeng (CZ) has committed or promised to donate 150 BNB (worth around $100,000). It indicates his intention to contribute this amount to the cause, though the actual donation might happen later. You said: In addition to the financial loss, the situation has led to increased demands for stronger cryptocurrency regulations to protect investors in the future. As donations continue to pour in through the BSC address, the focus remains on rebuilding trust and providing immediate support to those who have been most impacted. humanise, less ai. in natural tone. maybe can talk about trust in politicians that ends up rugging its own people. ChatGPT said: On top of the financial loss, the situation has sparked a growing call for tougher cryptocurrency regulations to protect investors down the road. With donations continuing to roll in through the BSC address, the priority now is to rebuild trust—especially at a time when people are losing faith in both the market and those in power who should be looking out for their interests, only to end up letting them down. You said: Binance Founder Donates $100K to Support Argentine Students After LIBRA Collapse Zhao Changpeng, the founder of Binance, has stepped in with a substantial commitment to aid Argentine students affected by the sudden collapse of the LIBRA token. In an effort to alleviate the financial burdens caused by the collapse and to support EnHeng’s charitable initiative, CZ, as he is commonly known, responded, “Support! I will donate 150BNB (about 10w U, based on BNB). DM you.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zh" dir="ltr">支持一下！我赞助150BNB (10w U左右，以BNB为准）。<br><br>DM you。</p>— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) <a href="https://twitter.com/cz_binance/status/1891390385139613776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> He has pledged 150 BNB, valued at around $100,000. This gesture adds to the $50,000 already donated by EnHeng, a prominent encrypted KOL, to establish a relief fund aimed at supporting those who invested in the token. The Devastating LIBRA Collapse Hits Students Hard The LIBRA token, which was recently endorsed by Argentine President Javier Milei, surged in value upon his public promotion. However, within hours, it plunged by 95%, leaving many investors, particularly students, facing heavy losses. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Argentina president Javier Milei's memecoin weekend recap<br><br>- promoted <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24LIBRA&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$LIBRA</a> in a tweet Friday<br>- said it was to stimulate Argentina's economy<br>- it rose to a $4.4B market cap, then collapsed 95%<br>- he has since deleted the tweet<br><br>Now Milei could face an impeachment trial <a href="https://t.co/WSj4r1ar6X">pic.twitter.com/WSj4r1ar6X</a></p>— Morning Brew ☕️ (@MorningBrew) <a href="https://twitter.com/MorningBrew/status/1891181393771675692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Critics have been quick to suggest market manipulation, with some calling the incident a “rug pull” due to its rapid crash following Milei's backing. Aiming to Rebuild and Provide Support In response to the devastation, Binance’s founder stepped forward with his generous pledge, backing the charitable initiative led by EnHeng. The focus is on providing financial relief to student victims who were influenced by the token's sudden rise and fall. Explaining the motivation behind his own $50,000 donation, EnHeng wrote, “As a college student, I know the feeling of this blow.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zh" dir="ltr">今天阿根廷总统发币Rug事件让不少人受到了伤害。作为一名大学生，我深知这种打击的感受。为了帮助受影响的朋友们，嗯哼决定捐赠 5万美元，并通过 BSC 地址接受捐赠款，用于发送嗯哼慈善晚餐赞助，为大家带来温暖和支持… <a href="https://t.co/DsPlWZdcGj">pic.twitter.com/DsPlWZdcGj</a></p>— EnHeng嗯哼 (@EnHeng456) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnHeng456/status/1890741217144844541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Translation: Today, the Argentine President's Rug currency incident hurt many people. As a college student, I know the feeling of this blow. In order to help the friends affected, EnHeng decided to donate $50,000 and accept donations through the BSC address to send Eneng charity dinner sponsorship to bring warmth and support to everyone. This assistance is open to all victims, with priority given to college students. This is not just a dinner, but also a transmission of hope. I hope everyone can join in the event, help those in distress, and give them more courage and strength. 📢 Please help forward it so that more victims can see it He further elaborated on the donation mechanism, which includes a Binance Smart Chain (BSC) address for additional contributions and invites donors to join a charity dinner to show solidarity with those affected. Relief Fund Simplifies Process for Victims to Apply For victims seeking compensation, EnHeng has set up a straightforward application process to determine their eligibility for financial aid. Students are required to provide their school name, major, and student ID for identity verification, while non-student victims can submit information to confirm their losses. Those applying must also provide their wallet address used during the incident to ensure accurate verification of their investment losses. Translated image of the application for LIBRA’s rug pull victims To streamline the process, an optional step allows victims to share details of the event and raise awareness in exchange for potential additional compensation. Political Fallout and Growing Calls for Accountability The collapse of the LIBRA token has sparked significant political backlash. The incident has raised questions about President Milei’s involvement, with critics alleging that his public endorsement misled investors. On top of the financial loss, the situation has sparked a growing call for tougher cryptocurrency regulations to protect investors down the road. With donations continuing to roll in through the BSC address, the priority now is to rebuild trust, especially at a time when people are losing faith in both the market and those in power who should be looking out for their interests, only to end up letting them down. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. Reasoned for a few seconds Binance founder CZ donated 150 BNB (around $100K) to support Argentine students hurt by the LIBRA token crash, which dropped 95% after President Milei's endorsement. This donation, along with a $50K contribution from EnHeng, is part of a relief fund aimed at helping victims and spurring calls for tougher crypto regulations. 2/2 You said: The purchase of Bitcoin and the strategic shifts taking place within Hong Kong Asia Holdings signal a strong belief in the future of cryptocurrency and the company’s intention to capitalize on its potential. humanise this, less ai and more natural this is for conclusion 2/2 ChatGPT said: The move to buy Bitcoin and the changes happening at Hong Kong Asia Holdings show that the company has strong confidence in cryptocurrency's future and is positioning itself to take advantage of its potential. 2/2 You said: Company Shifts Focus to Bitcoin Investment Hong Kong Asia Holdings, a prominent firm listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, has made a significant pivot towards cryptocurrency, purchasing Bitcoin as part of its new strategy. The company has acquired one Bitcoin from the open market for a total of approximately $96,150 (HK$750,000), a move that signals its growing commitment to Bitcoin as a core asset. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/Dp4J6tzliw">https://t.co/Dp4J6tzliw</a> announces purchase of 1 BTC. Symbolic in scale, this marks a significant step for the company's strategic transformation. <a href="https://t.co/DUpHGSRnFV">pic.twitter.com/DUpHGSRnFV</a></p>— 1723.HK (@MoonIncHK) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoonIncHK/status/1891079719518380541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Strategic Move to Leverage Bitcoin's Institutional Appeal The acquisition is seen as the first step in aligning the company’s portfolio with Bitcoin, a move that echoes the success seen by UTXO Management, a subsidiary of BTC Inc. UTXO previously led Bitcoin-focused strategies with impressive results, such as their work with Japan’s Metaplanet, which became one of the top-performing stocks in 2024. By acquiring Bitcoin, Hong Kong Asia Holdings intends to tap into Bitcoin’s increasing appeal among institutional investors, suggesting the firm plans to replicate the success seen by UTXO in previous ventures. Expansion and New Leadership Appointments To support its new direction, the company is making key leadership changes. Four new members have been appointed to the board, including David Bailey, founder of BTC Inc., and John Riggins, its co-founder. These appointments are expected to bring valuable expertise and strengthen the company's position as it embraces its Bitcoin-focused future. Rebranding to "Moon Inc." Marks New Chapter In addition to the leadership changes, the firm has announced plans to undergo a rebrand. It will adopt the new name "Moon Inc." to better reflect its strategic shift towards Bitcoin and its growing presence in the cryptocurrency space. This rebrand comes as part of a broader effort to align the company's identity with its evolving business model. The move to buy Bitcoin, along with the strategic changes at Hong Kong Asia Holdings, shows they have a strong belief in the future of cryptocurrency and are ready to take advantage of its potential. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Hong Kong Asia Holdings has purchased one Bitcoin as part of a strategic shift towards cryptocurrency, signaling its commitment to Bitcoin as a core asset. The company is also rebranding to "Moon Inc." and appointing new leadership to support its Bitcoin-focused future. You said: The move to buy Bitcoin, along with the strategic changes at Hong Kong Asia Holdings, shows they have a strong belief in the future of cryptocurrency and are ready to take advantage of its potential. add in briefly, 1-2 sentences, mention about microstrategy who made similar move. MicroStrategy Rebrands to ‘Strategy’ to Reflect Digital Asset Focus The company once known for its business analytics software has officially rebranded, now operating as "Strategy." This name change reflects its growing focus on Bitcoin, the digital asset it has heavily invested in. The rebrand comes ahead of its fourth-quarter earnings report, with Strategy introducing its updated identity, logo, and branding. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Strategy announces Q4 2024 financial results and launches new website <a href="https://t.co/zwmL0kNH16">https://t.co/zwmL0kNH16</a>. Join us for our Earnings Call today at 5PM EST to hear more about our new brand, financial results, and outlook for our Bitcoin Treasury Company. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24MSTR&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$MSTR</a> <a href="https://t.co/p1uovTN0sd">https://t.co/p1uovTN0sd</a></p>— Michael Saylor⚡️ (@saylor) <a href="https://twitter.com/saylor/status/1887246514206220756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> New Identity for the Digital Age With the launch of the refreshed branding, Strategy revealed a stylised “B” logo, symbolising its strong dedication to Bitcoin. The company's updated color scheme now prominently features orange, a clear nod to Bitcoin’s own signature hue. The rebrand, described as a “natural evolution,” highlights the shift in focus, with Bitcoin now at the heart of the company's operations. The company is positioning itself as the “first and largest Bitcoin Treasury Company,” moving away from its previous identity tied primarily to business analytics. Its updated website now highlights two distinct platforms: one dedicated to its analytics tools, and another showcasing branded merchandise. The name change further signals the firm’s growing focus on Bitcoin, moving away from its past identity tied to software services. Bitcoin and AI as Core Pillars Co-founder and Executive Chairman Michael Saylor explained that the streamlined name reflects the company’s evolving mission. He remarked, "Strategy is one of the most powerful and positive words in language." He also added that the change refines the company's identity without altering its core values. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">New ₿rand, Same Strategy <a href="https://t.co/r1LD5FdEjJ">pic.twitter.com/r1LD5FdEjJ</a></p>— Michael Saylor⚡️ (@saylor) <a href="https://twitter.com/saylor/status/1887229546199462309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> CEO Phong Le further clarified the company's vision, emphasising that the dual focus on Bitcoin and artificial intelligence (AI) is key to its future. Le highlighted their significance in driving the company’s next phase of growth, saying, “These are the two most transformative technologies of the 21st century.” Steady Growth in Bitcoin Reserves Strategy's shift in branding also coincides with the company’s aggressive strategy of expanding its Bitcoin reserves since 2020. The company now holds 471,107 Bitcoins, valued at an estimated $45.82 billion, and continues to add more to its holdings. Last quarter, it made its largest-ever Bitcoin acquisition, purchasing 218,887 Bitcoins for $20.5 billion. The company has consistently pushed forward with its strategy, with an aggressive capital plan to raise $42 billion over the next three years to continue increasing its Bitcoin reserves. This bold approach has paid off, with the company’s stock price surging nearly five-fold in 2024 and securing a spot in the Nasdaq 100 index in December. Strategy has also introduced new funding options, including convertible preferred stock, which aims to attract institutional and select retail investors. Financial Losses Amidst Expansion Plans Despite its growing Bitcoin portfolio, Strategy reported a fourth consecutive quarterly loss, booking an impairment charge of $1.01 billion for the quarter. This marks a significant shift from the previous year when impairment losses were just $39.2 million. The company’s net loss for the quarter stood at $670.8 million, or $3.03 per share, compared to a profit of $89.1 million, or 50 cents per share, a year ago. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24MSTR&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$MSTR</a> earnings are out<br><br>Microstrategy posted a GAAP Accounting Net Loss of $670 million because they did not adopt FASB Fair Market Value rules for 2024 and used the old method of recording the value of their <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> at the lowest intraday price<br><br>Q1 2025 will be HUGE earnings <a href="https://t.co/fjzESHcWLo">pic.twitter.com/fjzESHcWLo</a></p>— Cryptoklepto (@CK_Cryptoklepto) <a href="https://twitter.com/CK_Cryptoklepto/status/1887249435756765192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Strategic Shift in Focus In the face of these losses, the company remains optimistic. CEO Phong Le stated that the company will continue its shift towards fixed-income issuance, including convertible bonds and preferred stock, as it looks to diversify its funding sources. The company is set to adopt a new accounting rule in the first quarter, which will allow it to measure the fair value of its Bitcoin holdings. CFO Andrew Kang confirmed that the fourth quarter would be the last to reflect an impairment charge on Bitcoin. Despite the rebrand, the company remains publicly traded under the MSTR ticker on the Nasdaq. ChatGPT said: Hong Kong Asia Holdings’ shift towards Bitcoin investment mirrors moves made by other companies like MicroStrategy. MicroStrategy, now rebranded as "Strategy," has made Bitcoin the centerpiece of its operations, further reinforcing its commitment to the digital asset by significantly expanding its Bitcoin reserves. 2/2 You said: Australia has become the third-largest hub for Bitcoin and crypto ATMs Total number of Bitcoin ATMs / Tellers in Australia: 1462 Top 10 operators run 1456 crypto ATMs rewrite into a sentence with above information. don't have to use all the info. describe about bitcoin and crypto atms in australia ChatGPT said: Australia is now the third-largest hub for Bitcoin and crypto ATMs, with 1,462 machines nationwide, the majority operated by the top 10 providers. 2/2 You said: revised. Coinflip covers nearly half of the total amount ChatGPT said: Australia is now the third-largest hub for Bitcoin and crypto ATMs, with 1,462 machines nationwide, nearly half of which are operated by Coinflip. You said: Organised Crime Gang Caught After Targeting Crypto ATMs And Trading Card Shops Australian police have dismantled a criminal network accused of carrying out a string of burglaries across Melbourne, stealing cryptocurrency ATMs and high-value collector cards. The group allegedly stole six ATMs and tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of trading cards since mid-January, using stolen cars to execute their crimes. According to an official report published on Monday, Authorities arrested four men linked to the operation, with two facing multiple charges, including burglary, vehicle theft, and firearm offenses. Police suspect the offenders were acting on behalf of a larger organised crime syndicate. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Police have dismantled an organised crime syndicate allegedly involved in a series of commercial burglaries targeting crypto ATMs and collector cards across Melbourne’s north west. <a href="https://t.co/Y4jVw29XoH">pic.twitter.com/Y4jVw29XoH</a></p>— Victoria Police (@VictoriaPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/VictoriaPolice/status/1891263821358219685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Police Uncover A Hidden Stockpile Of Stolen Goods Following an extensive investigation, detectives discovered what they described as an “Aladdin’s cave” of stolen items across multiple properties in Reservoir, Coburg North, Greensborough, and South Morang. Among the recovered goods were five firearms, 100 stolen car keys, a pill press machine, ammunition, and various power tools. The stolen collector cards included Pokémon, Disney Lorcana, Yu-Gi-Oh, Magic the Gathering, Dragon Ball Z, AFL, and NBA cards, collectively valued at approximately 50,000 AUD (£25,900). <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Police have smashed a Melbourne crime syndicate behind an Aladdin’s cave of stolen goods including Pokémon cards, weapons and crypto ATMs. <a href="https://t.co/nM71Rp94zW">https://t.co/nM71Rp94zW</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jordy_wright?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jordy_wright</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/7NEWS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#7NEWS</a> <a href="https://t.co/kX1TsbVX9d">pic.twitter.com/kX1TsbVX9d</a></p>— 7NEWS Melbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) <a href="https://twitter.com/7NewsMelbourne/status/1891390164426952898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Detective Inspector Patrick Watkinson, from the North West Metro Regional Crime Squad, confirmed police had identified the masterminds behind the operation. He said, “Police have also identified the lesser offenders supplying stolen goods and, more importantly, the Middle Eastern Organised Crime Syndicates tasking the apprehended offenders.” Two Primary Suspects Facing Multiple Charges A 37-year-old man from Reservoir has been charged with 14 counts of burglary, firearm offenses, and handling stolen goods. He is scheduled to appear in court on 2 May 2025. Another suspect, a 32-year-old from Epping, faces charges including five commercial burglaries, vehicle theft, and drug possession. He is due in court on 21 February 2025. Two additional men, aged 33 and 46, were released pending further investigation. Crypto ATM Market Booming In Australia Despite Risks Australia has seen a rapid rise in cryptocurrency ATMs, with installations increasing 17-fold since 2022. The country now ranks third globally in the crypto ATM market, with over 1,462 machines in operation, compared to just 67 in mid-2022. Leading providers include Coinflip (679 ATMs), Localcoin (543), and Cryptolink (98). Australia is now the third-largest hub for Bitcoin and crypto ATMs, with 1,462 machines nationwide, nearly half of which are operated by Coinflip. (Source: Coin ATM Radar) Despite the boom, research from TRM Labs highlights concerns over illicit activity. An estimated 1.2% of crypto ATM transactions have been linked to crime—twice the rate of illicit activity in the broader crypto ecosystem (0.63%). Crime Syndicates Exploiting The Industry The recent crime spree targeted businesses in multiple suburbs, including Hoppers Crossing, Bentleigh, Brunswick, Werribee, and Vermont. Collectible card stores in Epping, Moonee Ponds, and Eumemmerring were also burglarised. Authorities believe the arrested men were working under instruction from larger organised crime syndicates. Watkinson issued a warning to those attempting to evade justice, “Paying others to do your dirty work won’t keep you hidden.” The investigation remains ongoing as police work to trace the full extent of the syndicate’s operations. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Australian police dismantled a crime gang involved in stealing crypto ATMs and trading cards across Melbourne. Four men were arrested, with two facing multiple charges, and the stolen items included firearms, car keys, and valuable collector cards. You said: Australian Police Uncover ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ of Stolen Goods, Including Crypto ATMs and Pokémon Cards add in NBA cards ChatGPT said: Australian Police Uncover ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ of Stolen Goods, Including Crypto ATMs, Pokémon Cards, and NBA Cards. You said: One message reads expand this line above. additional info: originally written in chinese, so this is the translated 4/4 ChatGPT said: The original message, written in Chinese, reads: "Australian Police Uncover ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ of Stolen Goods, Including Crypto ATMs, Pokémon Cards, and NBA Cards," which highlights the discovery of a vast collection of stolen items by the authorities. The items recovered in the operation included valuable collector's cards such as Pokémon and NBA cards, as well as cryptocurrency ATMs, firearms, stolen car keys, and various other items. This extensive haul was found across multiple properties in Melbourne, and the police are working to trace the full scope of the criminal syndicate’s operations. You said: Furthermore, he has inscribed multiple messages to every transactions he made and seemly like a suicide note. improve this sentence 2/2 ChatGPT said: Furthermore, he has left multiple messages inscribed on every transaction he made, which appear to resemble a suicide note. You said: Ethereum User Burns $7 Million in Protest Against Alleged Brain Control An individual claiming to be an "ordinary programmer and entrepreneur" has burned approximately $7 million worth of Ethereum in protest, describing it as a stand against being monitored and manipulated by a so-called "brain-control organisation." The user, who identifies as Hu Lezhi, has sent 2,553 ETH through multiple transactions, leaving a portion permanently removed from circulation by sending it to an unspendable blockchain address. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 BREAKING: Chinese programmer of <a href="https://t.co/D2kDYFNps5">https://t.co/D2kDYFNps5</a>, a contributor to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, claims nano-brain-computer chips have been deployed on a large scale to control all citizens.<br><br>An anonymous account, which has now been labeled as Hu Lezhi, sent… <a href="https://t.co/RTiUHBdk7b">pic.twitter.com/RTiUHBdk7b</a></p>— TruthLabs 🫡 (@BoringSleuth) <a href="https://twitter.com/BoringSleuth/status/1891514535913144526?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> His transactions were also accompanied by messages suggestive of suicidal intent. Hu Lezhi's Message of Alleged Manipulation Among the ETH burned, 603 ETH ($1.65 million) was sent to the infamous "ETH burn address" 0x00000, effectively making the tokens unrecoverable. Alongside these actions, Hu Lezhi has included messages detailing his intense belief that he has been under constant surveillance and control by an organisation using brain-machine technology. One of the messages, written in Chinese, reads: "Since October 2022, I realized that I have been monitored and manipulated by the mind control organisation since I was born. When I realized the existence of the mind control organisation, they also increased their harm to me. I have been very painful in the past two years. Now I have completely lost my dignity as a human being." Source: Etherscan.io Donations to Wikileaks Highlight Frustration and Despair Before resorting to burning tokens, Hu also donated over 700 ETH ($2 million) to causes such as WikiLeaks, along with several other wallets, including nda.eth. Feeling a deep sense of helplessness, he inscribed a personal statement in at least three transactions on the blockchain, "There is a new mode of crime in which the victim is gradually deprived of his senses of desire until he becomes a complete slave to the digital machine, and if one day I become a victim of the final stage, I will leave the world." Source: Etherscan.io Messages Targeting Specific Individuals and Firms In the past week, Hu has burned additional tokens, sending as much as 500 ETH ($1.38 million) to a null address. These transactions have been accompanied by increasingly bizarre on-chain messages, including accusations against executives at WizardQuant Capital Management, a Chinese hedge fund. One message named the firm's bosses, Feng Xin and Xu Yuzhi, accusing them of using "brain-machine weapons" to control their employees. Source: Etherscan.io <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My theory: All of this money belongs to Wizard Quant, Hu Lezhi is most likely an employee of WQ; has control of these assets.<br><br>He withdrew them, burnt and donated the rest.<br><br>He seems to be suicidal from these messages which are crazy enough on it's own with wild accusations.</p>— Loopify 🧙♂️ (@Loopifyyy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Loopifyyy/status/1891459515725361580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> A Painful Admission and Final Words The latest Ethereum transaction occurred on 17 February 2025, with Hu sending a message to WikiLeaks detailing his ongoing torment. In what appeared to be a final declaration of his pain and disillusionment, he wrote, "I have decided to leave this world and hope that this ugly world will be destroyed soon," Ethereum Burn Continues Amid Growing Pressure In addition to donations to WikiLeaks, Hu has also made significant transfers to other addresses, amounting to more than 1,238 ETH ($3.4 million). The focus of his messages remains centred around accusations of mind control technology and the use of such technologies for military purposes. He has repeatedly emphasised through multiple transactions, stating, "Brain-machine chips have already been deployed on a large scale for military purposes, and all major military powers are using base stations, radio signals, and nano brain-machine chips to control their citizens." Source: Etherscan.io Public Response and Ongoing Investigations Crypto users, especially on X, have been attempting to capitalise on Hu’s remaining funds, with some even claiming to be victims of similar persecution. Messages from users like "Please help me, I am being persecuted too, send ETH," reflect the growing tension within the crypto community surrounding Hu's actions. Source: Etherscan.io Despite multiple attempts to contact WizardQuant, including through the firm's press contact and listed phone number, there has been no response. Hu’s case has raised questions about the boundaries of digital protest and the complex nature of blockchain transactions. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: A programmer named Hu Lezhi burned $7 million worth of Ethereum in protest, claiming to be under surveillance and control by a "brain-control organisation." Along with burning tokens, he made donations to WikiLeaks and accused individuals, including executives at WizardQuant Capital, of using brain-machine technology for manipulation. 2/2 You said: mentioned about the messages he left Reasoned for a couple of seconds A programmer named Hu Lezhi burned $7 million in Ethereum in protest against alleged brain control, leaving on-chain messages that read like a suicide note and detailed his feelings of constant surveillance and manipulation. He also donated funds to WikiLeaks and accused executives, including those at WizardQuant Capital, of using brain-machine chips to control citizens. 3/3 You said: With AI poised to play a pivotal role in game development, Musk’s xAI aims to integrate advanced AI systems into the creative process. humanise, more natural writing. impactful. simple 4/4 ChatGPT said: With AI set to transform game development, Musk’s xAI is gearing up to bring powerful AI systems into the heart of the creative process. You said: Musk’s remarks on AI come ahead of the launch of xAI's Grok 3 on 18 February 2025, which will be demonstrated live. rephrase. the launch is today, 18 february 2025, and the live demo has happened ChatGPT said: Musk’s remarks on AI followed the launch of xAI's Grok 3 earlier today, showcased during a live demonstration. You said: Elon Musk's Ambitions to Revolutionise Gaming with AI Elon Musk, the tech mogul known for his ventures with Tesla and SpaceX, is turning his attention to the gaming industry. This week, he reiterated plans for his company xAI to launch an AI-driven video game studio. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It’s got to be done. <br><br>Make video games great again! <a href="https://t.co/IyWQQQlVAF">https://t.co/IyWQQQlVAF</a></p>— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1891396362404565341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Musk’s vision comes after he initially shared the idea on social media in November. Despite not specifying when the studio would be operational, he responded positively on X to a user’s post about the team’s progress, confirming that the project is still on track. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="qst" dir="ltr">Yes <a href="https://t.co/txlPmvJjJP">https://t.co/txlPmvJjJP</a></p>— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1891388509191049307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> xAI’s Plans to Transform Game Development Musk’s ambition to bring AI into game creation has stirred interest in the industry. He has long voiced his dissatisfaction with the gaming world’s current direction, particularly the concentration of large corporations controlling major studios. Last November, Musk expressed on X a desire to "make games great again" by tapping into AI technology. Hinting at xAI's potential to disrupt the sector, he wrote, “Too many game studios that are owned by massive corporations.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Too many game studios that are owned by massive corporations. <a href="https://twitter.com/xai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@xAI</a> is going to start an AI game studio to make games great again! <a href="https://t.co/UR4nFODyfd">https://t.co/UR4nFODyfd</a></p>— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1861801046949191686?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Musk has previously been vocal about the issues within the gaming landscape, which he believes could be reinvigorated by AI innovation. Musk’s Long-Standing Passion for Gaming This isn't the first time Musk has shown an interest in game development. Over the years, he has frequently discussed the potential for his companies to delve into the gaming space. In February 2024, Musk mentioned that a Tesla-developed game could be on the horizon, contingent on the rollout of Tesla’s Unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. While FSD is currently a priority, he indicated that making a game would follow once the technology reaches a sufficiently advanced stage. Musk has also shared that he personally developed a game, "Blastar," back in 1984, showcasing his early involvement in the industry. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Blastar is a video game created by Elon Musk when he was just 12 years old in 1984:<br><br>🕵️♂️Development: Elon Musk wrote this game in the BASIC programming language on a Commodore VIC-20 computer.<br><br>🕵️♂️Story: In the game, the player controls a spaceship to fight against alien cargo… <a href="https://t.co/C9oHaGVNQb">pic.twitter.com/C9oHaGVNQb</a></p>— Blastar CTO (@blastarcto) <a href="https://twitter.com/blastarcto/status/1867019004050899095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> AI and the Future of Gaming With AI set to transform game development, Musk’s xAI is gearing up to bring powerful AI systems into the heart of the creative process. The generative AI market in gaming is set for substantial growth, from $1.43 billion in 2024 to an estimated $11.11 billion by 2033. Musk’s plan comes at a time when other major players, such as Google and NetEase, are also exploring AI tools for game creation. This shift could alter the way games are designed, produced, and experienced, potentially opening up new avenues for innovation. Musk’s Personal Gaming Involvement Beyond his ambitions with xAI, Musk remains an avid gamer. He has openly shared his gaming interests on social media, citing titles like "Civilization" and "Elden Ring" as favourites. Musk’s involvement in gaming isn’t just recreational; he has also been actively competitive. For example, he set records in "Diablo IV" and caused a stir when admitting to using a game booster during a live stream of "Path of Exile 2." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Elon Musk will livestream the game Path of Exile on 𝕏 using Starlink internet while inflight later tonight.<br><br>"This is a serious stress test of the system, as a dropped connection can result in permadeath." <a href="https://t.co/KSKDZWq3fi">pic.twitter.com/KSKDZWq3fi</a></p>— SMX 🇺🇸 (@iam_smx) <a href="https://twitter.com/iam_smx/status/1873886192015720910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Musk defended the move, explaining the need for an edge in competitive gaming environments. His dedication to gaming dates back to his time as an intern at Rocket Science Games, where he contributed to game programming. xAI's Grok Model and Broader Plans Musk’s remarks on AI followed the launch of xAI's Grok 3 earlier today, showcased during a live demonstration. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/hEfQ31gANQ">https://t.co/hEfQ31gANQ</a></p>— xAI (@xai) <a href="https://twitter.com/xai/status/1891699715298730482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Earlier, in December 2024, xAI made the Grok model accessible to all X users, removing the previous paywall for premium account holders. As Musk pushes ahead with his vision for AI in gaming, it’s clear that xAI's future could reshape not only the way games are created but also how they are played. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Elon Musk announced plans for xAI to start an AI-driven video game studio. He aims to use AI to change how games are made and challenge big corporations in the industry. You said: Tether, the issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin by value, has signed a significant agreement with Guinea to explore the potential of blockchain and peer-to-peer technologies. rewrite, don't say it's world largest. just be normal and dont exaggerate ChatGPT said: Tether, the issuer of a widely used stablecoin, has signed an agreement with Guinea to explore the potential of blockchain and peer-to-peer technologies. You said: Tether Partners with Guinea to Drive Blockchain Innovation Tether, the issuer of a widely used stablecoin, has signed an agreement with Guinea to explore the potential of blockchain and peer-to-peer technologies. The memorandum of understanding (MOU), revealed on 17 February 2025, outlines plans to position Guinea as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tether Signs MoU with the Republic of Guinea to Accelerate Digital Transformation and Economic Growth Through Blockchain Technology<br><br>Read more:<a href="https://t.co/BWEOXdViAo">https://t.co/BWEOXdViAo</a></p>— Tether (@Tether_to) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tether_to/status/1891489461613023685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Supporting Guinea's Digital Future A central part of the MOU is fostering blockchain expertise within Guinea. The collaboration seeks to enhance both public and private sectors through educational initiatives, with a focus on developing local talent in digital technologies. Programs will be introduced to raise awareness and build skills, ultimately creating a workforce capable of driving future digital innovation. Paolo Ardoino, Tether’s CEO, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with the Republic of Guinea to possibly unlock the immense potential of blockchain and digital technologies across Africa.” Paolo Ardoino, Tether’s CEO He continued, “Together, we aim to implement efficient blockchain solutions that benefit both public and private sectors, paving the way for economic growth and establishing Guinea as a leader in technological innovation.” Guinea’s Aspiration for Technological Sovereignty The Guinean government is committed to integrating new technologies to empower the country’s younger generations. Djiba Diakité, Chief of Staff to Guinea’s interim president, highlighted the country’s ambition to equip its youth with the necessary tools to meet global challenges. He also noted the opportunity to capitalise on the growing digital economy, adding, “This MoU testifies to our determination to position Guinea among Africa’s innovation leaders through our Simandou 2040 program.” Supporting Guinea’s Innovation City Project Tether’s involvement goes beyond education. The company has pledged to support Guinea’s “Innovation City” project, an initiative aimed at fostering a vibrant environment for tech companies, research, and entrepreneurship. IMAGE View of Conakry, capital of Guinea This project, a cornerstone of Guinea’s broader strategy for economic growth and technological progress, aligns with the government’s vision to strengthen its position in the digital economy. Tether's Ongoing Commitment to Blockchain Adoption This partnership with Guinea builds on Tether’s ongoing efforts to promote blockchain adoption globally. In recent years, the company has collaborated with governments and institutions across various regions. For example, Tether signed a similar MOU with Uzbekistan to support blockchain infrastructure and digital asset education. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tether signs MOU with National Agency of Perspective Projects (NAPP) of the Republic of Uzbekistan's to explore and promote the development and adoption of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bitcoin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bitcoin</a>, stablecoins, blockchain technology, P2P, and digital asset tokenization in Uzbekistan🇺🇿<a href="https://t.co/XpveWOWP6i">https://t.co/XpveWOWP6i</a> <a href="https://t.co/jBvxEK7Lf5">pic.twitter.com/jBvxEK7Lf5</a></p>— Tether (@Tether_to) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tether_to/status/1765684324001546525?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The company has also been involved in initiatives in Türkiye and Ras Al Khaimah to educate the public on stablecoins and blockchain technologies. Guinea’s Government Optimistic About the Partnership The Guinean government sees this partnership as a crucial step in advancing the country’s technological landscape. Alpha Bacar Barry, Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, described the agreement as an essential move to position Guinea at the forefront of innovation in Africa. He stated, “This will enable us to strengthen our educational and scientific infrastructures while equipping our young people to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of the global digital transformation.” The collaboration between Tether and Guinea represents a growing trend in Africa, where emerging nations are increasingly adopting crypto and blockchain technologies. According to a recent survey by Consensys, countries like Nigeria and South Africa are seeing high levels of crypto adoption, with 84% of respondents in Nigeria and 66% in South Africa reporting ownership of crypto wallets. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇳🇬🇿🇦REPORT | Nigeria, South Africa Lead the World in Crypto Wallet Ownership, Says ConsenSys <br><br>According to the survey findings, over half the population in Nigeria (84%) and South Africa (66%) report owning a crypto wallet in 2024.<a href="https://t.co/BqdKvZz7YN">https://t.co/BqdKvZz7YN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Consensys?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Consensys</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/YouGov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YouGov</a> <a href="https://t.co/hvoHBJU7SJ">pic.twitter.com/hvoHBJU7SJ</a></p>— BitKE (@BitcoinKE) <a href="https://twitter.com/BitcoinKE/status/1867431492634525717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Tether has partnered with Guinea to explore blockchain and peer-to-peer technologies, aiming to support the country's digital transformation. The agreement includes initiatives to build local expertise and contribute to Guinea's "Innovation City" project. You said: This has been a repeated warning and reminder to all crypto users to never respond to unsolicited requests for private information, regardless of the situation. mention not just on Binance ChatGPT said: This has been a repeated warning and reminder to all crypto users to never respond to unsolicited requests for private information, whether on platforms like Binance or any other exchange or service. 2/2 You said: Binance CEO Warns of New 'Share-Seed-Phrase' Scam Targeting Crypto Users Cryptocurrency fraud continues to evolve, with a new scam recently gaining traction in the crypto world. This deceptive scheme, known as the "share-seed-phrase" scam, has been quickly catching users off guard, taking advantage of their trust and panic. Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, has issued a warning about this growing threat. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A new scam is on the rise. The "share-seed-phrase" scam tricks users into sending funds to "safe" wallets controlled by scammers. <br><br>Stay vigilant and never share your private information! ⚠️</p>— Richard Teng (@_RichardTeng) <a href="https://twitter.com/_RichardTeng/status/1891736556202824007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> How the Scam Works: A Deadly Deception The scam's mechanics are simple, yet devastating. Fraudsters, posing as security experts, convince victims that their wallets have been compromised. In a rush to protect their funds, the targeted users are instructed to transfer their entire holdings to a new wallet for safekeeping. Unbeknownst to them, these wallets are controlled by the scammers, and the funds quickly vanish, leaving victims with nothing. The success of this scam hinges on two key factors: confusion and urgency. Scammers prey on these emotions, pushing users into a state of panic where logical thinking is often clouded. By the time the victims realise they’ve been deceived, their assets are long gone. Richard Teng Warns of Growing Threat Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, has raised concerns over the rising frequency of this scam. He stresses the importance of awareness and skepticism when dealing with any unexpected alerts regarding digital wallets. In a Binance's blog post that he shared, it mentions that the exchange will “never generate a seed phrase for you, ask for access to your private keys, or send you a seed phrase via SMS or email.” This has been a repeated warning and reminder to all crypto users to never respond to unsolicited requests for private information, whether on platforms like Binance or any other exchange or service. A Red Flag: Urgency and Unverified Sources Fraudsters are experts at creating a false sense of urgency. They use high-pressure tactics, claiming that immediate action is needed to prevent financial loss. Such demands should always be treated as a red flag. It is crucial for crypto users to have a moment of doubt and take the time to verify through official channels. This can make all the difference between securing your funds and losing them entirely. Transfers based on instructions from unverified sources should always be avoided. How to Protect Yourself: Stop and Verify The most effective way to protect oneself from this scam is simple: verify. If you ever receive an alert that seems suspicious, reach out to customer support through official channels to confirm its legitimacy. Protecting your digital assets requires more than just knowledge of security protocols. It also involves the ability to step back, question the situation, and avoid hasty decisions that could lead to significant losses. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: A new "share-seed-phrase" scam is targeting crypto users, where fraudsters trick victims into transferring funds to wallets they control. Binance CEO Richard Teng has warned users to stay vigilant and avoid acting on unsolicited requests for private information. You said: Trump Merchandise Buyers Eligible for TRUMP Memecoin Airdrop Buyers of official Trump merchandise have a chance to claim free TRUMP memecoins as part of a President’s Day promotion. Those who purchased items from one of four licensed Trump online stores—including sneakers, watches, fragrances, and digital trading cards—before 15 February 2025 can receive three TRUMP tokens. The claim process requires users to submit the email address used for their purchase. Eligible buyers have until 1 March 2025 to claim their tokens through the website claim.gettrumpmemes.com. However, those who purchased Trump NFTs from secondary marketplaces will not qualify for the airdrop. TRUMP Memecoin Faces Market Volatility Despite Promotions Launched on 17 January 2025, TRUMP, the official Solana-based memecoin, saw its market cap surge to nearly $14.7 billion before dropping significantly. The token is now down approximately 78% from its all-time high, trading at $16.30 at the time of writing. Despite the price drop, the project remains optimistic about the coin’s future, actively promoting community engagement. The project stated on X, “$TRUMP is creating the biggest and strongest crypto community the world has ever experienced.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">HAPPY PRESIDENT TRUMP DAY!<br><br>On January 17, 2025 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> Meme took the world by storm. Nearly 1 million users held <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> in the first week, with 50% being first-time Crypto users! This was one of the biggest crypto onboarding events in history.<br><br>And <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> is just getting started!…</p>— TrumpMeme (@GetTrumpMemes) <a href="https://twitter.com/GetTrumpMemes/status/1891547794252628307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> NFTs and Collectibles Continue to Attract Interest Trump has previously capitalised on the digital collectibles market. His first-ever trading card collection, initially sold as NFTs, has recently seen a 17% increase in value over the past 24 hours, now holding a floor price of $187, according to NFT Price Floor. Beyond digital assets, Trump’s merchandise spans a wide price range. Items include fragrances priced at $199, NFTs starting at $99, and even a limited-edition 18-karat gold watch available for $100,000. Airdrop Coincides with Crypto Market Downturn The TRUMP memecoin airdrop comes amid a broader decline in the cryptocurrency market. According to CoinGecko, Bitcoin (BTC) has dropped 5.9% in the past month, now valued at $95,597.53. Ethereum (ETH) has fallen by 17.2%, while Solana (SOL) has seen a 27.6& decline. Memecoins have also taken a hit, with Dogecoin (DOGE) losing 35% of its value over the last 30 days. Meanwhile, TRUMP has seen a drastic fall from its peak of $56 last month, reflecting a 63.4% decrease. A representative for the TRUMP project has yet to disclose how many tokens are allocated for the airdrop or where the promotional coins originated. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Buyers of official Trump merchandise can claim free TRUMP memecoins through a President’s Day promotion, with a deadline of 1 March 2025. The TRUMP memecoin has experienced significant market volatility, dropping 78% from its peak despite ongoing promotions. 2/2 You said: Trump Merchandise Buyers Eligible for TRUMP Memecoin Airdrop Buyers of official Trump merchandise have a chance to claim free TRUMP memecoins as part of a President’s Day promotion. Those who purchased items from one of four licensed Trump online stores—including sneakers, watches, fragrances, and digital trading cards—before 15 February 2025 can receive three TRUMP tokens. The claim process requires users to submit the email address used for their purchase. Eligible buyers have until 1 March 2025 to claim their tokens through the website claim.gettrumpmemes.com. However, those who purchased Trump NFTs from secondary marketplaces will not qualify for the airdrop. TRUMP Memecoin Faces Market Volatility Despite Promotions Launched on 17 January 2025, TRUMP, the official Solana-based memecoin, saw its market cap surge to nearly $14.7 billion before dropping significantly. The token is now down approximately 78% from its all-time high, trading at $16.30 at the time of writing. Despite the price drop, the project remains optimistic about the coin’s future, actively promoting community engagement. The project stated on X, “$TRUMP is creating the biggest and strongest crypto community the world has ever experienced.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">HAPPY PRESIDENT TRUMP DAY!<br><br>On January 17, 2025 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> Meme took the world by storm. Nearly 1 million users held <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> in the first week, with 50% being first-time Crypto users! This was one of the biggest crypto onboarding events in history.<br><br>And <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUMP&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUMP</a> is just getting started!…</p>— TrumpMeme (@GetTrumpMemes) <a href="https://twitter.com/GetTrumpMemes/status/1891547794252628307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> NFTs and Collectibles Continue to Attract Interest Trump has previously capitalised on the digital collectibles market. His first-ever trading card collection, initially sold as NFTs, has recently seen a 17% increase in value over the past 24 hours, now holding a floor price of $187, according to NFT Price Floor. Beyond digital assets, Trump’s merchandise spans a wide price range. Items include fragrances priced at $199, NFTs starting at $99, and even a limited-edition 18-karat gold watch available for $100,000. Airdrop Coincides with Crypto Market Downturn The TRUMP memecoin airdrop comes amid a broader decline in the cryptocurrency market. According to CoinGecko, Bitcoin (BTC) has dropped 5.9% in the past month, now valued at $95,597.53. Ethereum (ETH) has fallen by 17.2%, while Solana (SOL) has seen a 27.6& decline. Memecoins have also taken a hit, with Dogecoin (DOGE) losing 35% of its value over the last 30 days. Meanwhile, TRUMP has seen a drastic fall from its peak of $56 last month, reflecting a 63.4% decrease. A representative for the TRUMP project has yet to disclose how many tokens are allocated for the airdrop or where the promotional coins originated. suggest 10 impactful headlines about this news, optimise for SEO. ChatGPT said: "Trump Merchandise Buyers Can Claim Free TRUMP Memecoins in President’s Day Airdrop" "How to Claim Your TRUMP Memecoins: Airdrop for Trump Merchandise Purchasers" "TRUMP Memecoin Airdrop: Free Tokens for Trump Fans Who Bought Official Merchandise" "Trump’s TRUMP Memecoin Faces Market Volatility Amid Airdrop Promotion" "Get TRUMP Memecoins: Buyers of Official Trump Merchandise Eligible for Free Tokens" "TRUMP Memecoin Price Drops 78% Despite President’s Day Airdrop" "Trump Merchandise Buyers Eligible for Free TRUMP Tokens – Here's How to Claim" "TRUMP Memecoin: Free Airdrop for Buyers of Trump Sneakers, Watches, and More" "TRUMP Memecoin's Roller Coaster Ride: Airdrop Amid Crypto Market Downturn" "TRUMP Memecoin Airdrop: Claim Free Tokens If You Bought Official Trump Merchandise Before February 15" 3/3 You said: mention like Loyal Trump fans who bought the nfts, merch are rewarded with airdrop, mention also the airdrop is to get free TRUMP tokens 3/3 ChatGPT said: Here are 10 optimized headlines incorporating the requested details: "Loyal Trump Fans Who Bought NFTs and Merchandise Rewarded with Free TRUMP Memecoin Airdrop" "Trump Merchandise and NFT Buyers Receive Free TRUMP Memecoin Airdrop as Part of Promotion" "Trump Fans Who Purchased Merchandise and NFTs Get Free TRUMP Tokens in Airdrop" "Airdrop for Loyal Trump Supporters: Free TRUMP Tokens for Buyers of Official Merchandise and NFTs" "Trump’s Airdrop: Loyal Fans Who Bought Merchandise and NFTs Can Claim Free TRUMP Memecoins" "Trump Merchandise and NFT Purchasers Eligible for Free TRUMP Token Airdrop" "Loyal Trump Fans Get Rewarded with Free TRUMP Tokens Through Exclusive Airdrop" "Airdrop Offers Free TRUMP Memecoins to Loyal Trump Fans Who Purchased Official Merch and NFTs" "Trump Fans Who Bought Merchandise and NFTs Can Claim Free TRUMP Tokens in New Airdrop" "Loyal Trump Supporters Receive Free TRUMP Tokens in Airdrop for Purchasing Official NFTs and Merchandise" You said: As AI continues to evolve rapidly, Murati’s latest venture promises to bring a fresh perspective to the field. improve this sentence, humanise, less ai bot. don't need to shill 10/10 ChatGPT said: As AI advances at a rapid pace, Murati’s latest venture aims to offer a new take on the industry. You said: Mira Murati Launches Thinking Machines Lab to Revolutionize AI Mira Murati, former CTO of OpenAI, has launched a new venture called Thinking Machines Lab. The AI startup has already attracted a team of around 30 highly skilled researchers and engineers from leading companies such as OpenAI, Meta, and Mistral. The company aims to make artificial intelligence systems more adaptable, ethical, and accessible across a wide range of industries. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Albanian-American Mira Murati, former CTO of ChatGPT maker OpenAI, has announced her new AI startup called Thinking Machines Lab.<br><br>The startup has recruited about 30 leading researchers and engineers from competitors such as OpenAI, Meta and Mistral. <a href="https://t.co/8RBuqoWFdD">pic.twitter.com/8RBuqoWFdD</a></p>— Admirim (@admirim) <a href="https://twitter.com/admirim/status/1891947855398437268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Talent from Competitors Strengthens the Startup’s Core Team Murati’s new company has quickly established itself with a strong team, largely composed of former OpenAI employees. Among the most notable additions are Barret Zoph, a prominent AI researcher, who has taken on the role of Chief Technology Officer. Zoph departed OpenAI on the same day as Murati in late September. The company has also attracted OpenAI co-founder John Schulman, who serves as the Chief Scientist at Thinking Machines Lab. Schulman left OpenAI earlier in the year to focus on AI alignment, a principle that will play a crucial role in the startup's development. In a statement to Reuters, sources confirmed that more former OpenAI employees are expected to join the company in the coming months. Thinking Machines Lab is currently in talks to secure venture capital funding, according to those close to the matter. AI Alignment Takes Center Stage in New Startup’s Mission One of the key focuses of Thinking Machines Lab is AI alignment—the process of embedding human values and ethical principles into AI systems. This concept of alignment is gaining increasing importance in the AI community, as developers seek to ensure that AI systems act in ways that are beneficial and safe for humans. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, we are excited to announce Thinking Machines Lab (<a href="https://t.co/gD5QlPMfWw">https://t.co/gD5QlPMfWw</a>), an artificial intelligence research and product company. We are scientists, engineers, and builders behind some of the most widely used AI products and libraries, including ChatGPT,…</p>— Thinking Machines (@thinkymachines) <a href="https://twitter.com/thinkymachines/status/1891919141151572094?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The startup’s mission, as outlined in their blog post, is to encode human values into AI systems and enable broader, more practical applications than current models offer. Murati has expressed her goal of bridging the gap between the research and product sides of AI development. In an announcement, the company said, "While current systems excel at programming and mathematics, we’re building AI that can adapt to the full spectrum of human expertise and enable a broader spectrum of applications." Open Science as a Core Pillar of the Startup’s Approach Thinking Machines Lab has stated that it will also focus on fostering an open science approach. The company plans to share research publications, code, datasets, and model specifications with the broader AI community to help advance the field. This commitment to transparency sets Thinking Machines Lab apart from other competitors in the space. Murati emphasised that the company would contribute to the understanding of AI systems through a culture of collaboration and open knowledge. Murati said in a post on X, We're building three things: - Helping people adapt AI systems to work for their specific needs - Developing strong foundations to build more capable AI systems - Fostering a culture of open science that helps the whole field understand and improve these systems <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I started Thinking Machines Lab alongside a remarkable team of scientists, engineers, and builders. We're building three things:<br>- Helping people adapt AI systems to work for their specific needs<br>- Developing strong foundations to build more capable AI systems<br>- Fostering a…</p>— Mira Murati (@miramurati) <a href="https://twitter.com/miramurati/status/1891918876029616494?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> A Track Record of AI Leadership and Vision Before her departure from OpenAI in September 2024, Murati had been instrumental in the development of ChatGPT, the AI chatbot that gained global recognition. Her career trajectory is marked by leadership positions at notable tech firms, including Tesla and augmented reality startup Leap Motion. At Thinking Machines Lab, she has taken on the role of CEO, demonstrating her continued leadership in the AI industry. Thinking Machines Lab aims to offer a more human-centered approach to artificial intelligence, providing tools that are not just powerful but also usable and beneficial across various sectors. As AI continues to evolve rapidly, Murati’s latest venture promises to bring a fresh perspective to the field. The company's focus on ethical AI has sparked interest, with many in the industry keeping a close eye on its development. As Thinking Machines Lab expands its team and looks for funding, it is positioning itself to play a bigger role in the fast-changing AI industry. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Mira Murati, former OpenAI CTO, has launched Thinking Machines Lab, an AI startup focused on ethical AI and open research. The company has recruited top talent from OpenAI, Meta, and Mistral and is now seeking funding to expand its work. You said: Bullish Secures Hong Kong Trading License as Crypto Landscape Evolves Bullish, a crypto trading platform, has officially secured a licence to operate within Hong Kong, further establishing the region as a growing hub for digital asset exchanges. This licence approval by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) brings the total number of licensed crypto platforms in the territory to ten. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨BREAKING: 🇭🇰Hong Kong’s SFC approves another <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crypto?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crypto</a> trading license for Bullish, bringing total to 10. <a href="https://t.co/T3D48ybqos">pic.twitter.com/T3D48ybqos</a></p>— SmartViewAI.Com (@smartviewai) <a href="https://twitter.com/smartviewai/status/1892103168961675684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Bullish Plans Focus on Institutional Business in Hong Kong Michael Lau, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Sales at Bullish, highlighted the importance of Hong Kong as a business centre, emphasising that the firm has over 100 staff in the region. Following the approval, Bullish aims to pivot towards serving institutional clients in Hong Kong, focusing on enhancing its offerings for more sophisticated investors. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We are excited to announce that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bullish?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bullish</a> has received licensing approval from the Securities and Futures Commission to offer services to eligible customers in Hong Kong.</p>— Bullish (@Bullish) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bullish/status/1892006071696560151?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Consensus Hong Kong Draws Global Attention Adding to Hong Kong's growing influence in the crypto world, the city is hosting the highly anticipated Consensus event. This marks the first time the conference, a major gathering for the digital asset sector, is being held outside the United States. The event, taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, kicked off on 18 February and will run through 20 February, drawing an estimated 8,000 participants. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nei Ho, Hong Kong! Team <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bullish?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bullish</a> is here at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ConsensusHK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ConsensusHK</a>. Stop by our booth to say hello to the team and grab some swag. <a href="https://t.co/qrx6RJ7TIy">pic.twitter.com/qrx6RJ7TIy</a></p>— Bullish (@Bullish) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bullish/status/1892071428515823822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Michael Lau, who is also serving as Chairman of Consensus Hong Kong, explained the strategic decision to bring the event to Hong Kong: "Choosing Hong Kong was a pretty strategic decision because we know that one of the big themes within the whole space is… this technology has enabled [that] traditional finance." Hong Kong Strengthens its Regulatory Framework for Digital Assets Hong Kong continues to demonstrate its commitment to becoming a leading player in the digital asset market. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) is actively working on creating regulations for stablecoins, with many experts believing these assets have significant potential in traditional finance. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Stablecoins Bill, which aims to establish a regulatory regime for issuers of fiat-referenced stablecoins in Hong Kong, is introduced into the Legislative Council for First Reading today (18 Dec). 🔒💡 <a href="https://t.co/YWj4ObANlc">pic.twitter.com/YWj4ObANlc</a></p>— HKMA 香港金融管理局 (@hkmagovhk) <a href="https://twitter.com/hkmagovhk/status/1869318768071201223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> In addition to approving licenses for exchanges like Bullish, Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) currently has eight other platforms under review. Mr. Yip Chi Hang, Executive Director of the SFC’s intermediaries division, reaffirmed that the licensing process is becoming clearer, with licences being granted only to applicants meeting high standards. Bullish Expands its Reach, Focused on Compliance and Regulation As part of its global expansion strategy, Bullish is also focusing on regulatory compliance. The platform recently secured licenses from the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFIN), strengthening its European presence. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We are proud to announce that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bullish?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bullish</a> has secured licenses in Germany from BaFin, marking a significant step in strengthening our position within the EU.</p>— Bullish (@Bullish) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bullish/status/1876977479602348379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Tom Farley, CEO of Bullish, stressed the importance of clear regulations for building trust within the industry. He said, “This milestone is a testament to Bullish’s dedication to expanding our global footprint and continuation of our commitment to being the most trusted digital asset exchange.” Hong Kong's Push to Become a Global Crypto Hub Hong Kong has been positioning itself as a key player in the digital asset world since 2022, following China’s ban on cryptocurrency transactions. Over the past few years, Hong Kong has introduced various initiatives to attract digital asset businesses, including the launch of Asia’s first spot crypto exchange-traded funds. The Cyberport Web3 network, which now boasts over 270 blockchain firms, is another example of Hong Kong’s growing influence in the space. In addition, Hong Kong has proposed tax exemptions for hedge funds, private equity firms, and family investment vehicles that deal in crypto assets, further solidifying the city’s appeal to investors in the digital asset sector. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. 2/2 ChatGPT said: Bullish has secured a crypto trading license in Hong Kong, becoming one of ten approved platforms in the region. Hong Kong continues to strengthen its crypto regulations and attract digital asset businesses, aiming to be a major global hub. You said: The company is working on making Bitcoin transactions as easy and familiar as traditional online payments. rewrite, simple impactful ChatGPT said: The company aims to make Bitcoin transactions as simple as regular online payments. You said: Bitcoin historian Pete Rizzo expressed skepticism on social media, while Trezor, a hardware wallet provider, advised users to consider offline storage if they are concerned about linking their Google accounts to Bitcoin. Bitcoin historian Pete Rizzo did not express skepticism. he is bullish about it. it's the response he received after sharing the news on social media ChatGPT said: Bitcoin historian Pete Rizzo shared the news on social media, receiving mixed reactions. Meanwhile, hardware wallet provider Trezor advised users to consider offline storage if they are concerned about linking their Google accounts to Bitcoin. You said: Google Plans to Simplify Bitcoin Transactions with Google Accounts Google is venturing into the world of cryptocurrency with a bold initiative that could revolutionise how users interact with Bitcoin. The tech giant aims to make it as simple as using Gmail to manage and transact Bitcoin, potentially bringing mainstream adoption closer to reality. The plan focuses on integrating Bitcoin wallet logins with Google’s authentication system, allowing users to send, receive, and manage Bitcoin with their Google credentials. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">BREAKING: GOOGLE WEB3 LEAD SAYS ITS WORKING TO "IMPROVE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BITCOIN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BITCOIN</a> WALLETS" <br><br>"OUR GOAL IS USERS CAN LOG INTO WALLETS USING GOOGLE AND TRADE BTC."<br><br>MASSIVE 🚀 <a href="https://t.co/fvCHB0FmeG">pic.twitter.com/fvCHB0FmeG</a></p>— The Bitcoin Historian (@pete_rizzo_) <a href="https://twitter.com/pete_rizzo_/status/1891792927380140250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Simplified Access to Bitcoin via Google Logins Navigating the world of Bitcoin has been a daunting task for many. Setting up a wallet, remembering complex seed phrases, and securing private keys can put people off. Google’s upcoming collaboration with Bitcoin network contributors is poised to simplify this process. By leveraging Google’s existing authentication protocols, users could manage their Bitcoin assets as easily as logging into their email accounts. Kyle Song, Google’s Web3 specialist for the Asia Pacific region, shared the vision during a panel at the Bitcoin Tech Carnival in Hong Kong on 18 February 2025. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Google is officially making moves in the Bitcoin space<br><br>At the Bitcoin Tech Carnival, Google's Web3 Specialist Kyle Song confirmed that Google has been collaborating with the Bitcoin ecosystem since last year<br><br>The goal? <br>Lowering entry barriers and improving BTC wallets to match… <a href="https://t.co/mqg6EYFQtB">pic.twitter.com/mqg6EYFQtB</a></p>— Mr. Photon (@0xMr_Photon) <a href="https://twitter.com/0xMr_Photon/status/1891910605130563720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> According to Song, the goal is to reduce barriers to Bitcoin by connecting traditional digital identities with the decentralised world of cryptocurrency. The aim is to make Bitcoin transactions as simple as regular online payments. Exploring Blockchain Integration with Web2 Technology Google's ambitious plan seeks to merge the convenience of Web2 payment systems with the decentralised world of blockchain technology. The company is working on a method that would allow users to log into Bitcoin wallets using their Google accounts. This move could attract millions of users who are hesitant to enter the crypto world due to its complexity. In addition to simplifying logins, Google is also exploring advanced encryption methods, such as zero-knowledge proofs (ZKP), to enhance trust between on-chain and off-chain systems. To ensure seamless and trustworthy integration of these technologies, Song emphasised the critical need to address trust and security concerns. Security Concerns Over Centralisation Risks While Google’s initiative has garnered attention, it has also raised concerns within the crypto community. Critics argue that linking Google accounts with Bitcoin wallets could expose users to risks of centralisation and data breaches. The idea of a compromised Google account potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive financial information is a major worry. Bitcoin historian Pete Rizzo shared the news on social media, receiving mixed reactions. Meanwhile, hardware wallet provider Trezor advised users to consider offline storage if they are concerned about linking their Google accounts to Bitcoin. One critic called the integration "a huge security risk," suggesting that it could undermine Bitcoin's decentralised ethos. Mainstream Adoption or Compromise of Privacy? Despite the concerns, there are those in the crypto community who see Google’s involvement as a game changer for Bitcoin adoption. The hope is that by simplifying the process and integrating with familiar login systems, more people will feel comfortable using Bitcoin. As one supporter put it, this is a "huge step" for the industry, one that could remove the complexity that has held many potential users back. However, the debate over privacy and centralisation is far from over. Some see the move as a sign that the world of cryptocurrency is becoming more accessible, while others fear it might lead to further control by large tech companies. Google Faces Growing Scrutiny Over Data Security In light of recent security issues, Google’s move to integrate Bitcoin wallets with its authentication systems has sparked renewed concern about data privacy. Earlier this month, a malicious software kit was discovered on the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store, which scanned user images to extract cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrases. This breach, known as SparkCat, highlighted the vulnerabilities in digital security, which could amplify with the integration of Google accounts into crypto services. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">MALWARE "SPARKCAT" INFECTS GOOGLE PLAY & APP STORE APPS, STEALS CRYPTO WALLET MNEMONICS<br><br>- A major cybersecurity threat has been uncovered by Kaspersky, warning Android and iOS users of an alarming malware named "SparkCat".<br><br>- This malware has been found embedded in SDKs… <a href="https://t.co/SKqD73ZHnr">https://t.co/SKqD73ZHnr</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gxl61IBQhE">pic.twitter.com/Gxl61IBQhE</a></p>— BSCN (@BSCNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/BSCNews/status/1887066547996569600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Further raising concerns, a report in November 2024 revealed that North Korean hackers had used malware to bypass Apple’s macOS security defenses. The increased number of cyber threats has made privacy-conscious users more wary of trusting their digital identities with large corporations like Google. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Google is working to simplify Bitcoin transactions by integrating wallet logins with Google accounts, aiming to make Bitcoin as easy to use as Gmail. However, the move has sparked concerns about centralization and security risks within the crypto community. You said: XRP is the token in the top 10 that has risen in the past 7 days. improve this sentence ChatGPT said: XRP is the only top 10 token that has gained value over the past 7 days. You said: what this mean ChatGPT said: It means that among the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market value, XRP is the only one whose price has increased in the past seven days, while the others have either stayed the same or dropped. You said: While some remain sceptical about how long SOHAI will be effective, Tan is confident that by continuously swapping numbers and improving the AI, the bot can keep frustrating scammers for a long time to come. humanise, less ai bot 5/5 ChatGPT said: While some are uncertain about how long SOHAI will stay effective, Tan believes that by constantly tweaking the system and making improvements, the tool will continue to outsmart scammers for a long time. You said: One user suggested, “You should make an AI to handle my wife’s messages.” convert to statement ChatGPT said: One user suggested creating an AI to handle his wife’s messages. You said: AI Chatbot Annoys Scammers to Keep Them Distracted A Malaysian entrepreneur has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot designed to waste scammers' time, keeping them occupied in endless conversations instead of targeting real victims. Dylan Tan, the founder and CEO of Replyr.ai, introduced the chatbot, named Scammers On Hold AI (SOHAI), as a way to disrupt online scams. The AI engages scammers in nonsensical discussions, repeatedly follows up if ignored, and records every interaction on a Google Sheets leaderboard. <blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGCCvW6yPs1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGCCvW6yPs1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; 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font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGCCvW6yPs1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Replyr.Ai (@replyr.ai)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script> AI Poses as a Gullible Senior Citizen to Trick Scammers The chatbot operates through WhatsApp, adopting the persona of Madam Soh, a confused elderly woman who bombards scammers with irrelevant questions, strange responses, and excuses to prolong conversations. Tan explained in his Linkedin post, “If a scammer contacts you, or you see an ad for a scam, give them SOHAI’s phone number. SOHAI will pretend to be Madam Soh - she will infinitely waste their time by giving excuses, digress, and act blur. If the scammer doesn't reply, SOHAI will follow up with the scammer to annoy them back.” Source: Dylan Tan’s Linkedin Unlike a typical chatbot, SOHAI does not reply instantly every time. Instead, it responds at random intervals—sometimes within seconds, other times hours or even a full day later—keeping scammers engaged for as long as possible. Chatbot’s Interactions Logged on a Leaderboard Each conversation is logged in a Google Sheets leaderboard, summarising the time wasted and the tactics used. This allows users to see how long SOHAI managed to keep scammers occupied. Tan shared screenshots of some of the chatbot’s conversations in multiple languages, including English, Malay, and Mandarin, demonstrating its ability to engage a wide range of scammers. Source: Facebook group Source: Facebook group He wrote, “Every minute of scammer time wasted is one less minute of them scamming someone else. Enjoy!” Scammers Strike Back by Blocking the Bot The chatbot initially operated using a single phone number, which was shared publicly for victims to pass on to scammers. However, Tan later updated that the number had been blocked, likely after scammers caught on. Despite this, he assured that a new number would be introduced soon. Tan also mentioned that SOHAI could be replicated using multiple accounts, ensuring that scammers remain occupied even if they recognise and block one number. Mixed Reactions From Users The AI bot has been met with enthusiastic responses from social media users, many of whom were eager to test it against known scammers. Some joked about using the chatbot to handle personal conversations, while others expressed concerns that scammers might adapt and create their own AI to counter it. One commenter suggested creating an AI for married men to handle their wife’s messages. Source: Linkedin Another claimed he is ready to use it on an alleged scammer from Nigeria. While some are uncertain about how long SOHAI will stay effective, Tan believes that by constantly tweaking the system and making improvements, the tool will continue to outsmart scammers for a long time. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: A Malaysian entrepreneur developed an AI chatbot, SOHAI, to waste scammers' time by engaging them in irrelevant conversations. Despite some challenges, the chatbot has received positive feedback, with users excited to test it against scammers. 2/2 You said: OKX, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges, has achieved a major milestone by securing the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license. OKX has become among the first MiCA-licensed global crypto exchanges to extend their services across Europe. rewrite, dont say it's world's leading. say it's the first MiCA-licensed global crypto exchanges 2/2 ChatGPT said: OKX has achieved a major milestone by securing the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license, becoming one of the first MiCA-licensed global crypto exchanges to offer its services across Europe. You said: OKX’s efforts reflect a commitment to driving the adoption of cryptocurrencies and offering a seamless trading experience for both novice and experienced traders across Europe. write as general as possible. natural tone. humanise, less of ai bot 2/2 ChatGPT said: OKX is focused on helping more people adopt cryptocurrencies and providing an easy trading experience for both beginners and experienced traders in Europe. You said: OKX Expands Crypto Services Across Europe With MiCA License Approval OKX has achieved a major milestone by securing the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license, becoming one of the first MiCA-licensed global crypto exchanges to offer its services across Europe. This approval enables the platform to operate in 28 countries across the European Economic Area (EEA), expanding its services to over 400 million potential users. With this license, OKX gains the ability to offer regulated crypto services under a unified framework, streamlining operations across multiple European markets. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">OKX is Now Live Across 28 EEA Countries 🇪🇺<br> <br>With MiCA licensing secured, we’re passporting regulated crypto services across Europe—offering local payment methods and secure, seamless access to 400M+ users.<br> <br>A new alternative for Europe’s crypto future ➡️… <a href="https://t.co/Ak3ieaCrfh">pic.twitter.com/Ak3ieaCrfh</a></p>— OKX (@okx) <a href="https://twitter.com/okx/status/1891759623075500119?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> New Regulatory Landscape Strengthens OKX’s Position in Europe The MiCA license, granted on 27 January 2025, provides OKX with the legal backing to provide fully regulated, localized services throughout the EU. The exchange has based its European operations in Malta, offering users a secure environment to trade cryptocurrencies. As part of this expansion, OKX has introduced free euro deposits and withdrawals via bank transfers, as well as local payment methods and currency options, enhancing its appeal across different European countries. Erald Ghoos, CEO of OKX Europe, shared, “We now offer fully regulated, localised crypto services to over 400 million people in 28 EEA countries, all through our European hub in Malta.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We’re proud to be the first global exchange to secure a MiCA license! 🇪🇺<br> <br>Our fully regulated crypto products are now set to roll out to 400M+ people across Europe.<br> <br>This is a win for crypto, a milestone for regulation, and a step toward mass adoption.<br><br>Learn more:… <a href="https://t.co/SpFVSeMGCK">pic.twitter.com/SpFVSeMGCK</a></p>— OKX (@okx) <a href="https://twitter.com/okx/status/1883827366541009169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> This development allows OKX to reach an even wider audience, ensuring accessibility to a diverse range of users. Over 240 Cryptocurrencies and Tailored Trading Services OKX’s platform now features more than 240 cryptocurrencies and over 300 trading pairs, including 60 euro-denominated options. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">OKX Secures MiCA License, Expands Across Europe🇪🇺 <a href="https://twitter.com/okx?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OKX</a> is now one of the first global exchanges to operate across 28 EEA countries under MiCA regulations, offering 400M+ users seamless access to crypto services with local payment options. <br>- Regulated trading with 240+ tokens…</p>— Crypto Miners (@CryptoMiners_Co) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMiners_Co/status/1892101617207607724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The exchange provides a wide range of services, from over-the-counter (OTC) trading to automated bot trading, all aimed at making crypto trading smoother and more flexible for users across Europe. These services are tailored to meet the preferences of local markets, with multi-language support and customer service specific to each region. The platform also offers zero-fee transactions for euro deposits and withdrawals, positioning itself as an attractive option for traders looking to minimize their costs. MiCA License Simplifies Regulatory Compliance Across Europe One of the standout advantages of the MiCA license is its passporting rights, allowing OKX to operate seamlessly across the EU under a single regulatory framework. This eliminates the need for the exchange to obtain separate licenses for each individual market. The MiCA regulation, which takes full effect in mid-2025, is designed to standardise crypto regulations across the EU, ensuring greater investor protection and financial stability in the sector. OKX’s MiCA approval comes after a year-long process that included policy updates, team restructuring, and product adjustments to meet the necessary regulatory standards. This effort highlights OKX’s commitment to compliance and trust-building within the European market. A Strategic Move to Solidify European Presence OKX’s expansion in Europe is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its global position. In 2024, the exchange launched in seven new markets and obtained four additional licenses. With the MiCA license in hand, OKX is now well-equipped to scale its operations further, providing regulated trading services to millions of users across Europe. In an official statement, OKX emphasised the significance of MiCA passporting in enhancing its growth trajectory, stating, “Now, with MiCA passporting, we’re able to scale even further, ensuring that users across Europe can trade with confidence on a regulated platform.” Building Trust and Transparency in European Crypto Market MiCA regulations aim to standardise rules for cryptocurrency businesses, enhancing transparency and protecting investors. By meeting the strict regulatory criteria, OKX has established itself as a reliable exchange for European crypto traders. This helps boost trust among users and enhances its standing in the competitive crypto market. With its MiCA license now secured, OKX plans to continue expanding its presence across Europe by further engaging with its user base through “exclusive reward opportunities, partnership prizes, and local community meet-ups in the future.” Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: OKX has secured the MiCA license, allowing it to offer regulated crypto services across 28 European countries. This milestone expands its reach to over 400 million users with local payment options and a variety of trading services. You said: France Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland Germany Greece Hungary Ireland Italy Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden how many places are there on this list 2/2 ChatGPT said: There are 27 places on this list. You said: isnt it 28? ChatGPT said: You're right! It is 28 places. I made an error—thanks for pointing that out! You said: Bybit CEO Stands Firm Against Pi Network Amid Fraud Concerns Bybit CEO Ben Zhou has doubled down on his opposition to Pi Network, calling it a scam and reinforcing his exchange’s refusal to list the token. The controversy surrounding Pi has intensified following its long-awaited mainnet launch, which saw a record-breaking $12.6 billion in airdropped tokens but also a sharp decline in price. Pi Network Faces Allegations of Fraud in China Concerns over Pi Network’s legitimacy resurfaced when Zhou shared a 2023 warning from Chinese law enforcement, describing the project as a pyramid scheme. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">1. Here is a official police warning of <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24Pi&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$Pi</a> from Chinese police back in 2023 warning to the public that it’s a scam targeted towards elderly folks <a href="https://t.co/LaGJqXSOXR">https://t.co/LaGJqXSOXR</a> which leaks their personal data and loss of their pension. There are multiple other reports out there… <a href="https://t.co/gkEu2wZwfo">https://t.co/gkEu2wZwfo</a></p>— Ben Zhou (@benbybit) <a href="https://twitter.com/benbybit/status/1892608824869327026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The authorities claimed that criminals exploited Pi to deceive users, particularly the elderly, with false promises of wealth. In the warning, it states, “Many criminals use "π Coin" to claim that they can mine for free by simply downloading an APP on their mobile phones. They also give lectures to the elderly, expand the victim group by claiming that they can "recommend rebates" by developing downlines, resell user personal information, and defraud the elderly of their pensions.” The strong wording from authorities highlights the deep skepticism surrounding Pi Network, which has struggled with trust issues despite its growing community. Bybit Rejects Pi Listing as Debate Heats Up Zhou’s renewed criticism of Pi came after Pi enthusiasts mocked him online, accusing him of being biased against the project. He dismissed these claims and reiterated that Bybit had no intention of listing Pi Network, stating his firm belief that it is fraudulent. An anonymous claim suggested that Bybit’s refusal stemmed from being rejected by Pi developers. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">⭕<a href="https://twitter.com/Bybit_Official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Bybit_Official</a> is gradually losing its position in the cryptocurrency market, when CEO <a href="https://twitter.com/benbybit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@benbybit</a> posted a bad post about Pi Network after being rejected by <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PI&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PI</a> to list on this exchange 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PiNetwork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PiNetwork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PI</a> <a href="https://t.co/ihWm6OWPds">pic.twitter.com/ihWm6OWPds</a></p>— SusDrones.pi (@SusDrones) <a href="https://twitter.com/SusDrones/status/1892047128374980925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Zhou swiftly refuted this, calling it “complete nonsense” and clarifying that Bybit never sought a listing. Bybit’s firm stance aligns with concerns that listing Pi Network could have wider implications, particularly in China. Authorities there have long maintained a cautious stance on crypto, and a major scandal involving Pi could potentially set back any progress in regulatory openness. Binance and OKX Face Backlash Over Pi Listing Considerations Bybit is not the only exchange caught in the Pi Network debate. When OKX hinted at listing the token, some users warned that it could provoke backlash from Chinese regulators. Binance also found itself at the centre of the controversy when it launched a community vote on whether to list Pi. IMAGE While the majority voted in favour, the decision remains contentious. Critics argue that listing Pi could expose users to potential risks, given the allegations of fraudulent activity. Pi Network’s Price Crashes After Launch Despite its historic airdrop, Pi’s market debut was marked by turbulence. The token initially surged to $1.99, reflecting a 36% increase, but quickly plummeted by 55% to $0.9123 within hours. The rapid decline fueled concerns over the project’s stability and long-term viability. Amid the price drop, frustrated users reported issues with Pi Network’s support team. One user claimed they accidentally sent their tokens to the wrong wallet address and received no assistance despite multiple attempts to contact the team. This lack of response has only added to the doubts surrounding Pi’s operational transparency. Critics and Supporters Remain Divided The divide over Pi Network continues to widen. While some investors remain hopeful, others share Zhou’s concerns over potential fraud. One supporter praised Bybit’s refusal to list Pi, arguing that exchanges must conduct thorough due diligence before approving tokens. For now, Pi Network remains a highly polarising project. Despite its record-breaking airdrop, questions over its legitimacy persist, and major exchanges like Bybit are unwilling to take the risk. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Bybit CEO Ben Zhou reaffirmed his stance against Pi Network, calling it a scam and refusing to list its token. Pi Network’s mainnet launch saw a massive $12.6 billion airdrop, but its price quickly dropped, raising concerns over its legitimacy. You said: focus on bybit on Pi Network ChatGPT said: Bybit CEO Ben Zhou criticized Pi Network as a scam and confirmed the exchange will not list its token. He cited past warnings from Chinese authorities and dismissed claims that Bybit ever sought a listing. You said: "Honestly, I’m excited to see the reaction we get," Mingo stated, emphasising the importance of adaptability and engagement with the community. “We’re gonna change and roll with however the people like it.” rewrite so it ends with dialogue ChatGPT said: "Honestly, I’m excited to see the reaction we get," Mingo said, highlighting the need for adaptability and community engagement. "We’ll change and roll with whatever the people like." 2/2 You said: With full control over the artistic vision, Mingo is finally poised to create something that is truly his own, hoping to make a lasting impact on the NFT space once again. humanise, less ai bot. natural tone ChatGPT said: With complete control over the artistic direction, Mingo is now ready to create something that truly reflects his vision, aiming to make a lasting mark on the NFT space once again. 2/2 You said: Creative Differences Lead to Departure from Pudgy Penguins Antoine Mingo, a former concept artist for the popular Ethereum-based NFT collection Pudgy Penguins, left the project in early 2023 after facing creative clashes with the leadership. Mingo, who joined the collection in 2021 through gig platform Upwork, had been pivotal in the creation of the collection's 8,888 NFT profile pictures, which became a huge success. But as Pudgy Penguins evolved, so did the tensions between him and the project's management. From Web2 to Web3: Mingo's Rise to Fame Initially working in the Web2 world, Mingo’s artistic journey took a sharp turn when he was hired for the Pudgy Penguins gig. The collection, created under founder Cole Thereum, skyrocketed in popularity as the NFT market boomed. Although Mingo was new to Web3, his art quickly gained recognition, bringing in a flood of work from other projects. He stayed on as a core artist for Pudgy Penguins even after Thereum's controversial exit in 2022, when he emptied the project’s treasury and was replaced by Luca Netz. However, it was clear that the artist’s vision was beginning to diverge from the direction the project was headed. Disagreements Over Creative Vision Sparked Departure Mingo began to feel that his style was no longer aligning with the evolving direction of Pudgy Penguins. Mingo shared, “[My style] just wasn’t clicking with them. Even the simple things, like the flippers. Just little creative differences like that.” He had pitched a more unique, dynamic vision for the brand, inspired by the animated series “The Amazing World of Gumball”, where 2D and 3D elements are blended. However, this vision was not embraced by the new leadership. "I think you could see it in the art," he added, noting that if one were to compare his designs to those of the current team, it would be clear where the differences lay, though not drastically so. Pudgy Penguins’ design in the past (left) vs current (right) The lack of creative freedom at Pudgy Penguins became a key factor in Mingo’s departure, leading him to seek out opportunities where he could take the reins of the creative direction. Embracing Creative Freedom at Burrrs Now at the helm of a new NFT project, Burrrs, Mingo is relishing the opportunity to bring his artistic vision to life. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hi Im Burrrs and youre printing on Berachain <a href="https://t.co/7RiOkFwlTc">pic.twitter.com/7RiOkFwlTc</a></p>— Burrrs (@Burrrsprint) <a href="https://twitter.com/Burrrsprint/status/1891951273202831671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The project, which will launch on Magic Eden for 4.2 BERA each ($34), promises to allow Mingo the flexibility he craved during his time with Pudgy Penguins. As a founding member and creative lead, he feels empowered to take on a much more direct role, ensuring that his ideas are given room to evolve. Mingo noted on the the importance of adaptability and engagement with the community, stating, "Honestly, I’m excited to see the reaction we get. We’re gonna change and roll with however the people like it.” Lessons from Pudgy Penguins Success Despite his reservations about the early days of Pudgy Penguins, Mingo credits much of the collection’s success to the ability to embrace imperfection and evolve. Mingo explained, "Things don't have to be picture-perfect. You can create a story and just kind of roll with the punches." The collection, like a chameleon, adapted and changed over time, ultimately thriving amid a turbulent market. Mingo acknowledged that while he once doubted the project's potential, the lessons learned from Pudgy Penguins have been invaluable in shaping his approach to creative freedom and collaboration. A Fresh Start and New Challenges Ahead Mingo’s departure from Pudgy Penguins marks a new chapter in his career. Though he maintains positive relations with the project’s leadership, he is no longer directly involved. As Burrrs takes shape, the artist is eager to continue his journey within the rapidly evolving world of Web3, where creative expression and adaptability are key to success. With complete control over the artistic direction, Mingo is now ready to create something that truly reflects his vision, aiming to make a lasting mark on the NFT space once again. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Antoine Mingo, a former concept artist for Pudgy Penguins, left the project in early 2023 due to creative differences with the leadership. He now leads a new NFT project called Burrrs, where he has full control over the artistic direction. You said: SEC Shifts Focus with New Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced the formation of a new unit, the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit (CETU), signalling a shift in its approach to tackling cyber-related misconduct. This restructuring comes as the SEC continues to adjust its stance on cryptocurrency regulation under the leadership of Acting Chair Mark Uyeda. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨NEW: The <a href="https://twitter.com/SECGov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SECGov</a> has renamed its Division of Enforcement’s Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit (CACU) to the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit<br>(CETU). <br><br>The unit will focus on combatting cyber and crypto-related fraud as well as cybersecurity related compliance. <br><br>H/T to… <a href="https://t.co/hD7F30BXYD">pic.twitter.com/hD7F30BXYD</a></p>— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) <a href="https://twitter.com/EleanorTerrett/status/1892588869423600112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> CETU to Combat AI-Related Crime, Crypto Less Prioritised The primary goal of CETU is to address fraudulent activities involving emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, and social media. Unlike its predecessor, the Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit, which was largely focused on crypto-related fraud, CETU will direct its efforts towards broader cyber crimes, such as hacking and account takeovers. Although the unit will still handle issues related to Web3 technologies, its focus on crypto crimes will not be its central concern. Speaking about the role of the new unit, Acting Chair Uyeda explained, "This new unit will complement the work of the Crypto Task Force led by Commissioner Hester Peirce. The unit will not only protect investors but will also facilitate capital formation and market efficiency by clearing the way for innovation to grow. It will root out those seeking to misuse innovation to harm investors and diminish confidence in new technologies." Smaller Team, Broader Focus: A New Direction for Enforcement CETU will be led by Laura D’Allaird, who takes on the role of head of the unit, alongside a team of around 30 legal and fraud experts. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Laura D’Allaird<br><br>The head of the new cyber and emerging technologies unit by the SEC.<br><br>If she's doing the arresting herself, I don't mind committing a few crimes. <a href="https://t.co/BJ2MCdzgvx">pic.twitter.com/BJ2MCdzgvx</a></p>— DegenCapitalLLC (@DegenCapitalLLC) <a href="https://twitter.com/DegenCapitalLLC/status/1892604781249868270?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> This is a significant reduction in staffing compared to the Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit, which had grown to about 50 members during Gary Gensler’s tenure. While the previous unit concentrated on crypto-related crimes, the new team’s mandate is to address a wider range of cyber misconduct across various technologies. Shift in SEC’s Enforcement Strategy Under New Leadership The changes mark a clear departure from the SEC's previous focus under Gary Gensler, who was known for his tough stance on digital asset regulation. During his time as SEC Chairman, the Commission regularly highlighted its enforcement actions against fraudulent crypto offerings. However, under the current leadership, the SEC appears to be scaling back its crypto enforcement efforts, a reflection of President Trump’s past remarks about curbing the federal government's stance on the cryptocurrency sector. Hester Peirce, who has advocated for less aggressive regulatory actions, further explained the SEC's evolving position, stating that the agency is looking to delegate some responsibility and limit its outreach in certain sectors. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">JUST IN: 🇺🇸 SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce states investors should NOT expect government intervention if crypto tokens dump<br><br>"If people want to buy a token or product that lacks a clear long-term value proposition, they should feel free"<br><br>"[Don't be] surprised if someday the… <a href="https://t.co/Qt9u0IRPbX">pic.twitter.com/Qt9u0IRPbX</a></p>— BlockNews (@blocknewsdotcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/blocknewsdotcom/status/1886880250849845576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> While enforcement against crypto crimes will not be abandoned, it will not dominate the SEC’s priorities. Crypto Task Force Remains a Key Component of the SEC’s Approach Although CETU's primary focus is not crypto crime, it will work in tandem with the SEC’s Crypto Task Force. Formed earlier in 2025, the Crypto Task Force is part of the SEC’s ongoing efforts to develop a clearer regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency industry. It is part of what the agency is calling “Crypto 2.0,” a new initiative aimed at refining how digital assets are regulated and ensuring that the industry operates with greater clarity and accountability. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: The SEC has replaced its Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit with the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit (CETU), shifting focus from crypto fraud to broader cyber threats like AI-related crime. While crypto enforcement continues, it is no longer the main priority under the new leadership. You said: Ulbricht, who spent 12 years in prison for creating the Silk Road darknet marketplace, posted a statement on 21 February, appealing for support for Ver. mention that he posted on X ChatGPT said: Ulbricht, who spent 12 years in prison for creating the Silk Road darknet marketplace, posted a statement on X on 21 February, appealing for support for Ver. You said: SafeMoon CTO Pleads Guilty To Fraud Charges Thomas Smith, the former Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of SafeMoon LLC, has admitted to his involvement in a high-profile fraud case that rocked the cryptocurrency community. The plea came after months of legal battles, as Smith withdrew his previous not-guilty plea and faced serious charges of wire fraud conspiracy and securities fraud conspiracy. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">3 years ago we exposed SAFEMOON's fraud. <br>They told their community it was just "FUD".<br>Today their CTO Thomas Smith pled guilty. <a href="https://t.co/MgUK6R0FcC">pic.twitter.com/MgUK6R0FcC</a></p>— Coffeezilla (@coffeebreak_YT) <a href="https://twitter.com/coffeebreak_YT/status/1892684591753785686?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Smith Faces Up to 45 Years in Prison Smith’s guilty plea has significant legal consequences, with the possibility of facing a combined sentence of up to 45 years in prison. The wire fraud conspiracy charge carries a potential sentence of 20 years, while securities fraud conspiracy could result in an additional 25-year sentence. Magistrate Judge Cheryl Pollak, who oversaw the plea hearing, has recommended that District Judge Eric Komitee accepts Smith's admission of guilt, although the final sentencing decision is yet to be made. The Allegations Against Smith and His Colleagues Smith is among three key figures involved in a criminal case brought forward by the US Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in November 2023. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">US government arrested the founders of the SafeMoon crypto token on November 1, 2023. The founders, Kyle Nagy, Braden John Karony, and Thomas Smith, were charged with conspiracy to commit securities fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. <a href="https://t.co/txjCc1Deqw">pic.twitter.com/txjCc1Deqw</a></p>— Mashable Crypto (@MashableCrypto) <a href="https://twitter.com/MashableCrypto/status/1719965140349858255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The other two are SafeMoon’s CEO, Braden John Karony, and the company's creator, Kyle Nagy. The case centres around the misleading promotion of SafeMoon (SFM), a cryptocurrency token, which allegedly defrauded investors of over $200 million. Prosecutors and the SEC claim that the executives falsely assured SFM buyers that the token’s liquidity was “locked” and inaccessible. SafeMoon’s CTO Thomas Smith (left) and CEO Braden John Karony (right). In truth, the executives reportedly had full access to the liquidity pool, allowing them to divert funds for personal use. These funds were allegedly used for extravagant purchases, such as luxury cars and high-end real estate. Market Crash Revealed The Fraud At its peak, SafeMoon had an estimated market capitalisation between $5.7 billion and $8 billion, drawing in a large number of investors. However, the token’s value plummeted by nearly 50% on 20 April 2021, following revelations that its liquidity pool was not locked as had been promised. This sharp decline left many investors facing substantial losses. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">3⃣ The Crash Begins: SafeMoon’s Price Tanks! 💥 <br><br>On April 20, 2021, news broke that SafeMoon’s liquidity wasn’t locked. A 50% price drop followed, marking the start of its downfall. 🚨 <a href="https://t.co/0LGAA4XAD5">pic.twitter.com/0LGAA4XAD5</a></p>— Clarenz_Feliciano (@The_DojiBear) <a href="https://twitter.com/The_DojiBear/status/1889214523942543672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> SafeMoon Executives Accused of Siphoning Funds Smith, along with Karony and Nagy, faces accusations of engaging in money laundering and fraud. Prosecutors allege that they used misleading tactics, including wash trading, to inflate SafeMoon's market cap, further deceiving investors. Smith and Karony were arrested at the time the charges were filed, while Nagy remains at large, with reports suggesting he has resurfaced in Russia. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">irony of fate or boomerang of life.<br>founder of the American cryptocurrency and blockchain company SafeMoon LLC Nagy Kyle, who stole over $200 million of clients' funds and fled to Russia. He is wanted by the FBI. blackmailed by Russian FSB agents for his quiet stay in the Russia. <a href="https://t.co/kCZ2IgfYm1">pic.twitter.com/kCZ2IgfYm1</a></p>— Monetary intelligence bureau (@MIB_officialnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/MIB_officialnet/status/1876544069121589401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Karony, the SafeMoon CEO, has pleaded not guilty to the charges and recently sought to have the case dismissed. His request to delay the trial, citing potential changes in US cryptocurrency policy under former President Donald Trump, was rejected. The trial is now set to begin on 7 April 2025. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Thomas Smith, the former CTO of SafeMoon, pleaded guilty to fraud charges, admitting involvement in a scheme that defrauded investors of over $200 million. The case, which also involves SafeMoon’s CEO and creator, centers around misleading promotions and unauthorized access to the token’s liquidity pool. 2/2 You said: focus on his withdrawal to what and why 3/3 ChatGPT said: Thomas Smith withdrew his previous not-guilty plea and pleaded guilty to fraud charges after months of legal battles. He faced charges of wire fraud conspiracy and securities fraud conspiracy, which carried the possibility of up to 45 years in prison. You said: A 74-year-old Malaysian businessman, who was introduced to an online investment scheme, has lost a staggering RM26.65 million to a fraudulent syndicate. The victim, who holds the title 'Datuk'—a ceremonial honor in Malaysia—was led into the scam after a simple Google search brought him to what appeared to be a legitimate investment opportunity. The director of a construction company claims to have lost a massive RM26.6 million after falling victim to a cryptocurrency investment scheme offered through the UVKXE app. merge in own words 3/3 ChatGPT said: A 74-year-old Malaysian businessman, who holds the title 'Datuk', lost a significant RM26.65 million after being lured into a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment scheme. He was introduced to the scheme through the UVKXE app, which appeared legitimate after a simple Google search, leading him to believe it was a genuine opportunity. The victim, a director of a construction company, was ultimately deceived by the scam. You said: RM61 million to usd 3/3 ChatGPT said: RM61 million is approximately USD 13.42 million, based on the current exchange rate of 1 MYR = 0.22 USD. You said: Scam Scheme Deceives Victim of Millions in Malaysia A 74-year-old Malaysian businessman, who holds the title 'Datuk', lost a significant RM26.65 million (approximately US$5.87 million) after being lured into a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment scheme. He was introduced to the scheme through the UVKXE app, which appeared legitimate after a simple Google search, leading him to believe it was a genuine opportunity. The victim, a director of a construction company, was ultimately deceived by the scam. How the Scam Began The man was added to a WhatsApp group after initially finding the investment opportunity online. A self-proclaimed expert, identifying himself as Professor Stanley Lim, began providing him with guidance on how to invest. Following the instructions, the Datuk made multiple transactions to bank accounts linked to various companies. He was completely unaware that the transactions were leading him down a path to financial ruin. The Startling Discovery of Fraud The investor's alarm bells only rang when he tried to withdraw an impressive amount of USDT—269,247,546.68, which is roughly RM1.2 billion. Upon trying to access the funds from his mobile investment app, he realised that something was wrong. His attempts to withdraw were unsuccessful, leading him to check the legitimacy of the platform. It was at this point that he discovered he had been scammed. Police Findings Reveal Widespread Fraud Police investigations later uncovered a deeper network of deception tied to the scam. Five of the bank accounts involved in the Datuk’s case were connected to at least 38 other fraud cases. This added to the gravity of the situation, as more victims were identified within the same scheme. Growing Number of Victims Authorities reported that 46 cases have been filed regarding the UVKXE investment scheme, with total losses exceeding RM61 million (approximately US$13.42 million). Despite heightened media coverage of the scam, more people continue to fall prey to the same fraudulent tactics. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSTnation?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSTnation</a> Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the victim was lured in August last year through a Facebook advertisement promoting a stock investment scheme called "UVKXE Investment."<a href="https://t.co/4lhulkkWVX">https://t.co/4lhulkkWVX</a></p>— New Straits Times (@NST_Online) <a href="https://twitter.com/NST_Online/status/1889868457107226812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, director of the Federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) said, "It is unfortunate that despite recent media coverage about this scheme, people are still falling victim to the syndicate." A Response to Combat Online Fraud In light of the rising number of scams in Malaysia, an entrepreneur, recognising the vulnerability of the public, has created an AI chatbot designed to safeguard individuals from falling victim to online investment fraud. The app aims to offer a safer platform for those looking to invest, allowing them to access legitimate investment advice and services. <iframe src="https://www.linkedin.com/embed/feed/update/urn:li:ugcPost:7296085567564304384" height="1361" width="504" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" title="Embedded post"></iframe> Warnings for the Public Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf has called on the public to avoid engaging in questionable online investment schemes. He encouraged people to consult official bodies such as the Securities Commission and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) for proper guidance on legitimate investment practices. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: A 74-year-old Malaysian businessman lost RM26.65 million (about US$5.87 million) in a cryptocurrency scam after being lured by a fake investment scheme through the UVKXE app. Police investigations revealed the scam involved multiple victims and over RM61 million (about US$13.42 million) in total losses. You said: A Twitch user summed up the moment with humour: rephrase differently ChatGPT said: A Twitch user humorously captured the moment with a clever remark: 3/3 You said: In October 2023, Seattle-based software engineer Peter Whidden published a YouTube video detailing how he trained a reinforcement learning algorithm to play Pokémon. His AI spent over 50,000 hours playing the game before it learned to successfully navigate it. One challenge was that the AI preferred to admire the pixelated scenery instead of actually playing the game. rewrite differently, avoid sounding like ai bot, humanise in natural tone ChatGPT said: Back in October 2023, Seattle software engineer Peter Whidden shared a YouTube video showing how he taught a reinforcement learning AI to play Pokémon. The AI spent more than 50,000 hours figuring out the game, but along the way, it got a little distracted—sometimes stopping just to admire the pixelated scenery instead of actually playing. You said: This isn’t the first time an attempt was done with AI. improve this sentence ChatGPT said: This isn’t the first time AI has been used for such an attempt. You said: Despite its slow and methodical approach, Claude 3.7 Sonnet’s progress in "Pokémon Red" hints at the future of AI, where models are not just trained for specific tasks but can reason their way through new challenges, step by step. rephrase entirely different structure, avoid sounding like ai bot, humanise in natural tone 2/2 ChatGPT said: Even though Claude 3.7 Sonnet takes a slow and steady approach, its progress in "Pokémon Red" offers a glimpse into the future of AI. It shows how models might evolve to tackle new challenges by thinking through problems one step at a time, rather than just being trained for specific tasks. 2/2 You said: another word for shows ChatGPT said: Even though Claude 3.7 Sonnet takes a slow and steady approach, its progress in "Pokémon Red" reveals a glimpse into the future of AI. It demonstrates how models might evolve to tackle new challenges by thinking through problems one step at a time, rather than just being trained for specific tasks. You said: For many, watching Claude play "Pokémon Red" brings back memories of "Twitch Plays Pokémon", the 2014 online social experiment where millions of players collectively controlled the game through chat commands. it's not 2014, it's over a decade ago, dont know the exact year 2/2 ChatGPT said: For many, watching Claude play "Pokémon Red" brings back memories of "Twitch Plays Pokémon," the online social experiment from over a decade ago where millions of players collectively controlled the game through chat commands. You said: add wherever possible: Each user could control the player character via Twitch chat, resulting in predictably chaotic gameplay. ChatGPT said: For many, watching Claude play "Pokémon Red" brings back memories of "Twitch Plays Pokémon," the online social experiment from over a decade ago where millions of players could control the player character via Twitch chat, resulting in predictably chaotic gameplay. You said: For many, watching Claude play "Pokémon Red" brings back memories of "Twitch Plays Pokémon", the 2014 online social experiment where thousands of players collectively controlled the game through chat commands. add wherever possible: Each user could control the player character via Twitch chat, resulting in predictably chaotic gameplay. ChatGPT said: For many, watching Claude play "Pokémon Red" brings back memories of "Twitch Plays Pokémon," the 2014 online social experiment where thousands of players could control the player character via Twitch chat, resulting in predictably chaotic gameplay as each user issued their own commands to collectively influence the game. 2/2 You said: AI Model Claude 3.7 Sonnet Takes on Pokémon Red in Live Experiment Artificial intelligence is proving its ability to navigate the digital world in unexpected ways. The latest version of Anthropic’s Claude, known as Claude 3.7 Sonnet, is playing “Pokémon Red”, and not just pressing random buttons. It’s actively strategising, making decisions, and adapting to challenges in real-time. Anthropic’s AI model, streaming live on Twitch under the channel “ClaudePlaysPokemon,” has already defeated three Gym Leaders, a feat that previous Claude models struggled to achieve. This experiment showcases how AI is advancing beyond simple task execution and into more complex problem-solving scenarios. AI Learns to Battle, Adapt, and Overcome Obstacles Unlike its predecessor, Claude 3.5 Sonnet, which failed to exit the player’s home in “Pokémon Red", Claude 3.7 Sonnet has shown noticeable progress. Within hours, it defeated Brock, the first Gym Leader, and just days later, overcame Misty. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Last week, a researcher tried out an early preview of Claude 3.7 Sonnet.<br><br>The results were striking. Within hours, Claude defeated Brock. Days later, it trounced Misty. Progress that older models had little hope of achieving.<br><br>Turns out extended thinking is super effective. <a href="https://t.co/RspsLgj2Uf">pic.twitter.com/RspsLgj2Uf</a></p>— Anthropic (@AnthropicAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnthropicAI/status/1894419025892880555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Anthropic explained that this success comes from the model’s ability to keep notes, observe the game screen, and use function calls to interact with the game. Rather than relying on pre-trained behaviours, Claude 3.7 Sonnet processes each situation, plans ahead, and adjusts when necessary—though it’s not without its struggles. At one point, Claude became stuck in front of a rock wall, continuously attempting to move through it. It took time before the AI recognised an alternative route. A user on Twitch gave a humorous take on the situation, “Who would win, a computer AI with thousands of hours put into programming it, or 1 rock wall?” Eventually, Claude figured out a way around the obstacle, demonstrating its capacity to learn from mistakes rather than simply repeating failed actions indefinitely. AI Playing Video Games Is Becoming a Research Benchmark AI models playing video games isn’t a new concept, but it remains a valuable way to test their reasoning abilities. In March 2024, researchers used OpenAI’s ChatGPT to play the classic first-person shooter "Doom", successfully navigating to the final room of the game. Around the same time, Google DeepMind introduced its Scalable Instructable Multiworld Agent (SIMA), capable of playing games like “No Man’s Sky”, "Teardown", and "Valheim" using only on-screen images and natural-language instructions—no access to source code or special APIs required. Unlike simple rule-based automation, these AI models demonstrate a level of general reasoning. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A few researchers at Anthropic have, over the past year, had a part-time obsession with a peculiar problem.<br><br>Can Claude play Pokémon?<br><br>A thread: <a href="https://t.co/K8SkNXCxYJ">pic.twitter.com/K8SkNXCxYJ</a></p>— Anthropic (@AnthropicAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnthropicAI/status/1894419011569344978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Anthropic noted that “Pokémon Red” was a particularly useful test for Claude 3.7 Sonnet, as it required the model to solve puzzles and make strategic decisions rather than just responding to direct commands. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Two things happened today: <br>1. Claude got an upgrade.<br>2. AGI was has finally been defined as "any model that can catch Mewtwo". <a href="https://t.co/0uUVMfwiaq">https://t.co/0uUVMfwiaq</a> <a href="https://t.co/nCFOpzizkf">pic.twitter.com/nCFOpzizkf</a></p>— Amanda Askell (@AmandaAskell) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmandaAskell/status/1894113894794498394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> A Throwback to Twitch Plays Pokémon, but With an AI Player For many, watching Claude play "Pokémon Red" brings back memories of "Twitch Plays Pokémon", the 2014 online social experiment where thousands of players collectively controlled the game through chat commands. The chaotic, collaborative nature of that event turned it into a cultural phenomenon. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Exactly 11 years ago today this very minute, on February 12, 2014 at 23:16:01 UTC, Twitch Plays Pokémon went live playing Pokémon Red Version for the first time!<br><br>It took viewers 16d 7h 50m 40s to see the end credits. <a href="https://t.co/CK8uNUfWwf">pic.twitter.com/CK8uNUfWwf</a></p>— Bulbapedia (@Bulbapedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bulbapedia/status/1889815749344240059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Now, instead of a community working together, viewers watch an AI struggle through a solo adventure. The experience has a different feel—more observational than interactive. Claude’s careful, step-by-step approach contrasts sharply with the erratic, crowd-driven gameplay of the original Twitch Plays Pokémon. One particularly amusing moment occurred when Claude, while searching for Professor Oak, repeatedly interacted with the wrong NPC despite having spoken to them several times before. Some viewers grew impatient, while others were more understanding: “Guys chill. Before we exited and entered Oak’s lab like 10 times before understanding how to move on.” This isn’t the first time AI has been used for such an attempt. Back in October 2023, Seattle software engineer Peter Whidden shared a YouTube video showing how he taught a reinforcement learning AI to play Pokémon. The AI spent more than 50,000 hours figuring out the game, but along the way, it got a little distracted—sometimes stopping just to admire the pixelated scenery instead of actually playing. Even though Claude 3.7 Sonnet takes a slow and steady approach, its progress in "Pokémon Red" offers a glimpse into the future of AI. It shows how models might evolve to tackle new challenges by thinking through problems one step at a time, rather than just being trained for specific tasks. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Claude 3.7 Sonnet, an AI model from Anthropic, is playing "Pokémon Red" live on Twitch, overcoming challenges and making strategic decisions. Unlike earlier versions, it has successfully defeated three Gym Leaders, showing significant progress in AI's ability to solve problems and adapt to new situations. You said: The firm’s strategy is clear: focus solely on Bitcoin. this is too AI, rewrite, humanise in natural tone. without colon 3/3 ChatGPT said: The firm has a clear strategy – it’s focusing solely on Bitcoin. 2/2 You said: GameStop Faces Bold Proposal to Invest in Bitcoin GameStop Corp., a company long known for its role in the 2020-2021 meme stock phenomenon, has received an eye-catching recommendation from Strive Asset Management. The investment firm is pushing the gaming retailer to transform its strategy by using its substantial cash reserves to acquire Bitcoin, positioning itself as a pioneer in the digital asset space. Strive Suggests GameStop Buy Bitcoin and Shift Focus Strive Asset Management CEO Matt Cole wrote a letter to GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen on 24 February 2025, advising the company to use its $4.6 billion in cash to purchase Bitcoin. IMAGE Cole suggests that GameStop should further increase its holdings through new market offerings. The goal, according to Strive, is to turn GameStop into a major player in the Bitcoin space, especially within the gaming sector. The proposal aligns with growing trends of Bitcoin adoption in both corporate and financial sectors. Strive Sees Bitcoin as the Solution for GameStop’s Future Strive’s recommendation is grounded in the belief that Bitcoin can offer GameStop a strategic advantage in a world of growing inflation. Strive stated in its letter, "Among digital assets, Bitcoin has uniquely established itself as 'sound money' and 'digital gold.'" The firm argues that holding Bitcoin rather than traditional cash would safeguard GameStop’s financial position, protecting it from inflationary pressures and making it a more appealing entity to investors. Strive advised GameStop to steer clear of other cryptocurrencies, claiming Bitcoin is the only “true store of value” in the digital asset space. By sticking exclusively to Bitcoin, GameStop would solidify its reputation as a disciplined, forward-looking organization and attract institutional investors, according to Strive. Bitcoin Holdings Could Shift GameStop’s Image from Meme Stock to Market Leader John Haar, the managing director of Swan Bitcoin, a BTC-only exchange, weighed in on the idea, calling it a move that could "bake the noodles of so many TradFi investors and commentators who think both GME and Bitcoin are a joke." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If GameStop embarks on the LBE (Leveraged Bitcoin Equity) strategy... <br><br>It will bake the noodles of so many TradFi investors and commentators who think both <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GME?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GME</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> are a joke 😂😂 <a href="https://t.co/kQniYEWIeE">pic.twitter.com/kQniYEWIeE</a></p>— John Haar (@john_at_swan) <a href="https://twitter.com/john_at_swan/status/1894504215793242224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> His remarks highlight the potential shockwaves such a move would send through traditional financial markets, where both GameStop and Bitcoin have often been regarded with skepticism. The suggestion aligns with Strive’s broader goal of positioning GameStop as a forward-thinking, innovative company capable of capitalizing on emerging financial trends. Strive argues that this Bitcoin-focused strategy would not only reshape GameStop's corporate identity but also make the company more resilient to market uncertainties. Cohen Responds to Proposal but Remains Silent on Next Steps GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen confirmed he received the letter from Strive, posting a simple message on X, “Letter received.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Letter received.</p>— Ryan Cohen (@ryancohen) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryancohen/status/1894458869364981938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Despite this acknowledgment, GameStop has not provided a formal response or indicated whether it plans to pursue the recommendation. Recently, Cohen has been spotted with Michael Saylor, the chairman of the Bitcoin-heavy business intelligence firm Strategy, which has inspired other companies to adopt similar strategies. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/wlOwEGli6n">pic.twitter.com/wlOwEGli6n</a></p>— Ryan Cohen (@ryancohen) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryancohen/status/1888098643732811864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> However, it remains unclear if GameStop will take the plunge and make Bitcoin a central part of its future. GameStop Considers a Shift Towards Alternative Assets Strive’s proposal follows recent reports indicating that GameStop has been exploring alternative assets, including Bitcoin, as part of its strategy. In early February 2025, GameStop’s stock saw a significant boost, rising by 20% following news of these explorations. Investors are clearly intrigued by the possibility of GameStop diversifying its portfolio, with Bitcoin seen as a potential stabiliser in a volatile market. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Strive Asset Management recommended that GameStop use its $4.6 billion cash reserves to buy Bitcoin, aiming to make the company a major player in the digital asset space. GameStop has yet to respond formally to the proposal, but recent reports suggest the company has been exploring alternative assets, including Bitcoin. 1/3 You said: shorten ChatGPT said: Strive Asset Management suggested GameStop invest its $4.6 billion in Bitcoin to become a key player in digital assets. GameStop has not yet responded but is reportedly exploring alternative assets. You said: emphasising that digital assets were not part of the company’s future plans for integration into its payment ecosystem. rephrase ChatGPT said: making it clear that digital assets were not intended for inclusion in the company’s payment system. You said: Apple Announces $500 Billion Investment in U.S. Operations Apple has revealed plans to invest more than $500 billion into its U.S. operations, with a focus on fields such as artificial intelligence, manufacturing, and engineering. This substantial investment, considered one of the largest in the tech industry, aims to further solidify the company's position within the U.S. economy. While the announcement did not mention digital assets, some industry figures have begun speculating about Apple’s potential move into the sector. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">As a proud American company, we're thrilled to continue to make significant investments in the US. Today, we’re announcing a $500 billion commitment to support American innovation, advanced manufacturing, and high tech job creation. <a href="https://t.co/xoNy7zGqZG">https://t.co/xoNy7zGqZG</a></p>— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) <a href="https://twitter.com/tim_cook/status/1894019006161473996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Speculation on Apple's Potential Crypto Move Although there were no direct mentions of cryptocurrency in the announcement, some industry experts have raised the possibility of Apple venturing into digital assets. Angus O’Callaghan, Head of Trading and Markets at XDC Network, speculated in an interview with TheStreet Crypto that this investment could be an early sign of Apple’s entry into the digital asset market. He pointed out that the company already has the user base and technical capabilities necessary to navigate the world of digital assets. O'Callaghan said, "This level of investment could be the precursor to Apple’s entry into the digital asset space." Despite this speculation, Apple has not disclosed any plans or provided any indication of integrating crypto into its business operations. O’Callaghan, however, added that Apple’s technical strength in combination with its user reach could make its entry into the crypto space a smooth transition. Tim Cook's Position on Cryptocurrency Remains Unchanged Apple CEO Tim Cook has maintained a clear stance on cryptocurrency, stating in 2021 that while he privately owns crypto, it is not something Apple intends to pursue as part of its corporate strategy. During the 2021 DealBook Online Summit, Cook said, "I think it’s reasonable to own [cryptocurrency] as part of a diversified portfolio.” He further clarified, "I don’t think people buy Apple stock to get exposure to crypto." He made it clear that digital assets were not intended for inclusion in the company’s payment system. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tim Cook of Apple reveals that he has personally invested in cryptocurrency. “I think it’s reasonable to own it as part of a diversified portfolio,” he said at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DealBook?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DealBook</a> Online Summit. <a href="https://t.co/xpahdlKfOe">https://t.co/xpahdlKfOe</a> <a href="https://t.co/CQpQgShu0x">pic.twitter.com/CQpQgShu0x</a></p>— DealBook (@dealbook) <a href="https://twitter.com/dealbook/status/1458091701252378624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Despite Cook's personal investment in crypto, Apple has refrained from making any public moves towards incorporating digital assets into its operations. His comments left little room for speculation about immediate changes to Apple’s financial strategy. Bitcoin Investment Suggestions Go Unheeded Meanwhile, Michael Saylor, the prominent Bitcoin advocate and CEO of Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), had also recommended that Apple invest $100 billion in Bitcoin. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Michael Saylor explains how Apple would be a Multi-Trillion dollar company if it would have bought <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> and how it makes the world a better place. <a href="https://t.co/LovKv226sW">pic.twitter.com/LovKv226sW</a></p>— Documenting Saylor (@saylordocs) <a href="https://twitter.com/saylordocs/status/1856457025158328502?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> However, this proposal was not taken up by the company. Saylor’s advice to other tech giants, including Microsoft, also failed to gain traction, as Microsoft shareholders voted against Bitcoin investment in the previous year. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My 3-minute presentation to the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24MSFT&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$MSFT</a> Board of Directors and <a href="https://twitter.com/satyanadella?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SatyaNadella</a>, articulating why the company should do the right thing and adopt <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a>. <a href="https://t.co/aHp91V9Slz">pic.twitter.com/aHp91V9Slz</a></p>— Michael Saylor⚡️ (@saylor) <a href="https://twitter.com/saylor/status/1863323760511627565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Apple, continuing its approach of personal crypto investments rather than corporate ventures, has left the door open for future possibilities without committing to any specific direction regarding digital assets. Apple's Domestic Focus Amid U.S. Investment Strategy Apple’s $500 billion commitment to U.S. innovation has sparked discussions about the company’s alignment with the “America-first” priorities championed by the Trump administration. Critics have suggested that Apple’s focus on investing domestically is part of a broader strategy to meet political and economic demands that prioritise domestic growth and innovation over international expansion. This focus on U.S.-based operations comes as tech companies face increasing pressure to promote American development and reduce reliance on overseas markets. At present, Apple’s shares are trading at $247.66, reflecting investor confidence despite the company’s hesitations to enter the cryptocurrency market. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Apple announced a $500 billion investment in its U.S. operations, focusing on AI, manufacturing, and engineering. Despite speculation, the company has not shown any interest in adopting cryptocurrency. You said: The message claimed his Binance account was being accessed from North Korea and urged immediate action to secure his funds. mention that he shared his ordeal on Linkedin ChatGPT said: He shared on LinkedIn that he received a message claiming his Binance account was being accessed from North Korea and urged immediate action to secure his funds. You said: getting wasted in life meaning 2/2 ChatGPT said: "Getting wasted in life" typically refers to feeling like one is not making the most of their time or potential, often due to poor choices, lack of direction, or excessive partying or substance use. It can imply a sense of wasting opportunities or not living life in a fulfilling or meaningful way. You said: Phishing Scam Targets Binance User, Highlights Ongoing Crypto Threats A recent phishing scam targeting Binance users has raised serious concerns about the security of digital asset platforms. Joe Zhou, a Web3 enthusiast and crypto entrepreneur, became a victim of a sophisticated scam after receiving a phishing SMS that appeared to come from Binance’s usual number, which he typically receives verification codes from. This happened just days after Bybit experienced one of the largest crypto exchange hacks in history. He shared on LinkedIn that he received a message claiming his Binance account was being accessed from North Korea and urged immediate action to secure his funds. Source: Linkedin Scammer Lures Victim into Creating Fake SafePal Wallet Believing the message to be legitimate, Zhou immediately called the number that had sent the SMS. The person who answered, speaking with a distinct British accent, instructed Zhou to set up a SafePal wallet. The scammer claimed that SafePal had partnered with Binance, and even sent an article purportedly from Binance to support the claim. Convincing as it seemed, the scammer asked Zhou to transfer all his Binance assets to the new wallet for safekeeping. Zhou, trusting the information, began the process of transferring his funds. However, he started to feel uneasy about the situation. Zhou recalled, "I followed the instructions to set up a wallet and started withdrawing my funds out of my Binance account. But I already sensed something was wrong." This hesitation prompted him to reach out to a friend who worked at Binance for advice. Binance Insider Warns Victim of Ongoing Scam Luckily, Zhou’s friend, Carlos M., who works at Binance, quickly recognised the signs of the scam and alerted him. Zhou explained, “I checked with him and realized I had been scammed.” After realising his mistake, Zhou attempted to reverse the transactions by transferring funds back from the SafePal wallet to his Binance account. However, the scammer quickly noticed this move and began withdrawing the funds before Zhou could fully recover them. The situation escalated when Zhou ran out of gas fees for the transaction. In a final attempt to drain the wallet, the scammer sent additional ETH to cover the gas and withdrew the remaining funds. Zhou reported that he lost only 200 USDT in the incident, but the experience served as a harsh reminder of the dangers lurking in the crypto space. Phishing Attacks on Binance Not a New Concern This incident is not the first time Binance users have fallen victim to phishing scams. Binance’s Risk Sniper account published a warning in November 2024, highlighting similar attacks affecting users in Sweden, Lithuania, and other parts of Europe. Scammers impersonated Binance and sent out SMS messages claiming to notify users of security issues, such as abnormal API activities. Source: Binance Square These messages urged victims to reach out to the attackers, who then guided them to transfer their assets to a supposedly secure TrustWallet. Once users handed over their funds, the scammers quickly accessed the wallets using the provided seed phrases and withdrew the assets. Such incidents demonstrate the ongoing threat of phishing scams targeting cryptocurrency exchanges and users alike, making it essential for crypto holders to remain vigilant and cautious. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Joe Zhou fell victim to a phishing scam after receiving a fake Binance security message, leading him to transfer funds to a fraudulent SafePal wallet. Fortunately, a Binance insider alerted him before he lost significant assets, but Zhou still lost 200 USDT in the process. You said: I want to report a recent scam that is related to Bybit incident and Binance. I just received an SMS (as below) from my usual Binance number where I always receive verification code. It told me my Binance account is being accessed from North Korea. I obviously paniced after days of dealing of Bybit hack and did not think twice before calling that number. does this mean he was a victim of bybit? ChatGPT said: No, it doesn't mean he was a victim of the Bybit hack. While he mentions dealing with the Bybit hack, he is reporting a separate scam involving Binance. The phishing SMS he received claimed his Binance account was being accessed from North Korea, which led him to panic and call the number. This is a different incident related to a scam targeting Binance users. You said: Phishing Scam Targets Binance User, Highlights Ongoing Crypto Threats A recent phishing scam targeting Binance users has raised serious concerns about the security of digital asset platforms. Joe Zhou, a Web3 enthusiast and crypto entrepreneur, became a victim of a sophisticated scam after receiving a phishing SMS that appeared to come from Binance’s usual number, which he typically receives verification codes from. This happened just days after Bybit experienced one of the largest crypto exchange hacks in history. He shared on LinkedIn that he received a message claiming his Binance account was being accessed from North Korea and urged immediate action to secure his funds. Source: Linkedin Scammer Lures Victim into Creating Fake SafePal Wallet Believing the message to be legitimate, Zhou immediately called the number that had sent the SMS. The person who answered, speaking with a distinct British accent, instructed Zhou to set up a SafePal wallet. The scammer claimed that SafePal had partnered with Binance, and even sent an article purportedly from Binance to support the claim. Convincing as it seemed, the scammer asked Zhou to transfer all his Binance assets to the new wallet for safekeeping. Zhou, trusting the information, began the process of transferring his funds. However, he started to feel uneasy about the situation. Zhou recalled, "I followed the instructions to set up a wallet and started withdrawing my funds out of my Binance account. But I already sensed something was wrong." This hesitation prompted him to reach out to a friend who worked at Binance for advice. Binance Insider Warns Victim of Ongoing Scam Luckily, Zhou’s friend, Carlos M., who works at Binance, quickly recognised the signs of the scam and alerted him. Zhou explained, “I checked with him and realized I had been scammed.” After realising his mistake, Zhou attempted to reverse the transactions by transferring funds back from the SafePal wallet to his Binance account. However, the scammer quickly noticed this move and began withdrawing the funds before Zhou could fully recover them. The situation escalated when Zhou ran out of gas fees for the transaction. In a final attempt to drain the wallet, the scammer sent additional ETH to cover the gas and withdrew the remaining funds. Zhou reported that he lost only 200 USDT in the incident, but the experience served as a harsh reminder of the dangers lurking in the crypto space. Phishing Attacks on Binance Not a New Concern This incident is not the first time Binance users have fallen victim to phishing scams. Binance’s Risk Sniper account published a warning in November 2024, highlighting similar attacks affecting users in Sweden, Lithuania, and other parts of Europe. Scammers impersonated Binance and sent out SMS messages claiming to notify users of security issues, such as abnormal API activities. Source: Binance Square These messages urged victims to reach out to the attackers, who then guided them to transfer their assets to a supposedly secure TrustWallet. Once users handed over their funds, the scammers quickly accessed the wallets using the provided seed phrases and withdrew the assets. Such incidents demonstrate the ongoing threat of phishing scams targeting cryptocurrency exchanges and users alike, making it essential for crypto holders to remain vigilant and cautious. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Joe Zhou fell victim to a phishing scam after receiving a fake SMS about his Binance account being accessed from North Korea. He transferred funds to a fraudulent SafePal wallet but realized it was a scam when a Binance insider warned him, losing 200 USDT in the process. You said: more general ChatGPT said: A Binance user was targeted by a phishing scam after receiving a fake SMS about account access from North Korea. The scammer convinced the user to transfer funds to a fraudulent wallet, resulting in a financial loss. You said: emphasizing the need for companies offering dollar-backed stablecoins in the US to register and comply with local laws. rewrite into a statement. 3/3 ChatGPT said: Companies offering dollar-backed stablecoins in the U.S. must register and comply with local laws to ensure regulatory adherence and transparency. You said: As the US takes steps to formalise its regulatory approach, it is clear that stablecoin issuers, including Circle and Tether, will face increasing scrutiny from both domestic and international regulators. less ai bot, more humanise, natural and general tone. dont use 'becoming clear', 'clear'. this is a conclusion, last sentence 3/3 ChatGPT said: As the U.S. moves forward with its regulatory framework, stablecoin issuers like Circle and Tether can expect more attention from regulators both at home and abroad. 3/3 You said: 3 versions ChatGPT said: With the U.S. working on its regulatory framework, stablecoin issuers like Circle and Tether are likely to face more scrutiny from regulators both in the U.S. and internationally. As the U.S. strengthens its regulatory approach, stablecoin issuers such as Circle and Tether will likely encounter more oversight from regulators around the world. As the U.S. moves ahead with new regulations, stablecoin issuers like Circle and Tether will likely see increased scrutiny from both domestic and global regulators. You said: Circle’s Call for Regulation on Stablecoin Issuers in the US As stablecoins become a focal point of global regulatory attention, Jeremy Allaire, the CEO and co-founder of Circle, is urging US authorities to introduce mandatory registration for all stablecoin issuers. This comes amid mounting scrutiny on the digital asset market, particularly regarding the role of these tokens in bridging cryptocurrencies with traditional financial systems. With Circle issuing the USDC stablecoin, Allaire advocates for clear and consistent regulations to ensure consumer protection and uphold financial integrity. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire argued that the regulation of stablecoins should align with U.S. law, rather than allowing some companies to bypass these regulations. Allaire stated that whether a company is registered offshore or not, if it wants to offer a dollar-backed stablecoin in…</p>— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) <a href="https://twitter.com/WuBlockchain/status/1894531693740253447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Stablecoins Under Scrutiny as US Regulation Intensifies Stablecoins, including USDC and Tether’s USDT, are key players in the cryptocurrency market due to their ability to maintain price stability by being pegged to assets like the US dollar. However, their rapid growth has raised questions about their oversight. Allaire’s comments reflect a broader concern that some issuers may circumvent existing regulatory frameworks by operating overseas, potentially undermining consumer trust and financial stability. He believes that companies offering dollar-backed stablecoins in the U.S. must register and comply with local laws to ensure regulatory adherence and transparency. IMAGE Jeremy Allaire, the CEO and co-founder of Circle He said in a recent interview with Bloomberg News, “Where you can just violate the US law and just go do whatever the damn you want wherever and then sell into the United States, it can’t be a free pass.” Dubai Recognises Circle’s USDC and EURC as Official Stablecoins Circle’s global expansion continues, with the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) officially approving its USDC and EURC stablecoins under the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) crypto regime. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">USDC & EURC are the first stablecoins recognized by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)!<br><br>This reinforces Circle’s position as the only major global stablecoin issuer compliant with European Union (MiCA) regulations and Canada’s new listing rules.<br><br>This recognition… <a href="https://t.co/QduRbNPpLo">pic.twitter.com/QduRbNPpLo</a></p>— Circle (@circle) <a href="https://twitter.com/circle/status/1894010641259925949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> This recognition is significant, marking the first time that a stablecoin issuer has received official status under Dubai’s newly established regulatory framework for digital assets. Following this approval, businesses in the DIFC are now able to integrate USDC and EURC into a variety of financial applications, such as payments and treasury management. Circle’s efforts to register its stablecoins in key jurisdictions, including the European Union and Canada, show the company’s commitment to adhering to regulated environments globally. Tether Faces Rising Pressure as Regulatory Framework Takes Shape Tether, the largest stablecoin issuer, has long been a controversial figure in the cryptocurrency market due to its lack of transparency. The company’s decision to relocate its headquarters to El Salvador, a country with a more lenient stance on cryptocurrency, has intensified questions about its adherence to global regulations. In response to growing regulatory pressure, Tether’s CEO, Paolo Ardoino, commented on X, expressing that some competitors seem more interested in undermining Tether rather than improving their own products. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🔥 JUST IN: Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino says competitors and politicians are working to “kill Tether,” using lawfare instead of building better products. <a href="https://t.co/dGin5LXvc6">pic.twitter.com/dGin5LXvc6</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1894415057267638342?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">During PlanB Forum El Salvador, I was asked this:<br><br>Journalist: are you worried about USDt competitors?<br><br>Me: not many realize that Tether has been building for the last 10 years one of the widest digital and physical distribution networks in the history of humanity. <br>While some…</p>— Paolo Ardoino 🤖 (@paoloardoino) <a href="https://twitter.com/paoloardoino/status/1887872308208865643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Tether’s reserves are partially managed by Cantor Fitzgerald, a relationship that has become a point of contention given Howard Lutnick’s recent appointment as the US Secretary of Commerce. This connection raises concerns about how regulatory decisions may influence Tether’s operations. US Government Steps Up Stablecoin Regulation Efforts US lawmakers are ramping up efforts to establish clear rules for stablecoins. Senator Bill Hagerty recently introduced a bill aimed at creating a legal framework for these digital assets, setting the stage for a broader regulatory push. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, I’m introducing the GENIUS Act w/ <a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorTimScott?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorTimScott</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SenGillibrand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenGillibrand</a>, & <a href="https://twitter.com/SenLummis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenLummis</a>, a bill that establishes a clear regulatory framework for stablecoins.<br> <br>I look forward to working with <a href="https://twitter.com/RepFrenchHill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepFrenchHill</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FinancialCmte?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FinancialCmte</a> to get it to the President’s desk and signed into law. <a href="https://t.co/8dz0HnYrLG">https://t.co/8dz0HnYrLG</a></p>— Senator Bill Hagerty (@SenatorHagerty) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorHagerty/status/1886793477679157723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Meanwhile, US financial regulators, including the Federal Reserve (Fed) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), are exploring how stablecoins can be better managed to safeguard both consumers and the financial system. Fed Governor Christopher Waller has highlighted the potential for properly regulated stablecoins to enhance the US dollar’s global dominance. Waller believes that stablecoins, when managed effectively, could strengthen the US economy by making the dollar more accessible in digital markets. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇺🇸NEW: Fed’s Governor Waller says banks and non-banks should be allowed to issue stablecoins, calling stablecoins as an “important innovation for the crypto ecosystem with the potential to improve retail and cross-border payments.” <a href="https://t.co/sisSydWKKi">pic.twitter.com/sisSydWKKi</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1889936294119456887?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> However, one of the key challenges in the regulatory debate is the potential impact on Tether’s business model, particularly with its significant Bitcoin holdings. Stricter US rules could force Tether to adjust its asset portfolio, leading to uncertainty about how the company would respond. Bipartisan Support Grows for Clearer Stablecoin Regulations With bipartisan support growing in Congress, stablecoin regulation is expected to be a major issue in the coming months. Democratic Representative Maxine Waters has introduced a bill aiming to establish clear guidelines, while the CFTC is considering a pilot program to better define how stablecoins should be managed. Circle’s push for mandatory registration of stablecoin issuers is part of a broader conversation about consumer protection and financial integrity in the rapidly evolving digital asset market. With the U.S. working on its regulatory framework, stablecoin issuers like Circle and Tether are likely to face more scrutiny from regulators both in the U.S. and internationally. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: Circle's CEO, Jeremy Allaire, is calling for mandatory registration of stablecoin issuers in the U.S. to ensure transparency and protect consumers. Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers and regulators are intensifying efforts to create clear rules for stablecoins, with growing scrutiny on companies like Circle and Tether. You said: PayPal Expands PYUSD Stablecoin Beyond Experimentation PayPal is shifting its PayPal USD (PYUSD) stablecoin away from its experimental phase and into a broader business strategy. Following a series of updates shared at the company's recent investor day in New York, executives detailed their ambitious goals for the stablecoin, including integration into both cross-border payments and existing business operations. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🔥 NEW: PayPal plans to expand the integration of its stablecoin, PYUSD.<br><br>By the end of the year, PayPal plans to enable its 20M+ small and medium sized merchants to use PYUSD for payments. <a href="https://t.co/ig90v5MaKs">pic.twitter.com/ig90v5MaKs</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1894568219806949809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> PYUSD Integration Into Merchants' Bill Payments One of PayPal's key plans for PYUSD is its integration into the company's bill-pay product, which will allow merchants to pay vendors using the stablecoin. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">⚡️ JUST IN: PayPal plans to boost <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PYUSD&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PYUSD</a> adoption in 2025 with a bill payment product, enabling 20M+ merchants to pay suppliers via stablecoin, enhancing efficiency. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CryptoNews?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CryptoNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PayPal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PayPal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Stablecoin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Stablecoin</a> <a href="https://t.co/0XWYrRjRwe">pic.twitter.com/0XWYrRjRwe</a></p>— CryptoMarketControl (@CryptoMarketCon) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMarketCon/status/1894764178746782159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> This feature is expected to roll out later in 2025, marking a significant expansion for PYUSD. Michelle Gill, PayPal’s General Manager for Small and Medium Enterprises, shared with Bloomberg, "The thesis was: Can we facilitate that on PYUSD rails so as not to have the currency conversion, the friction, as well as time?" This move will give businesses an alternative to traditional currency conversions and time-consuming international transfers. Cross-Border Payments: Reducing Friction in Global Transactions A major focus of PayPal's PYUSD initiative is addressing the challenges faced by U.S. merchants when making cross-border payments. The company aims to streamline international transactions, reducing the need for currency conversion and cutting down on transaction times. With PYUSD’s backing by U.S. dollar reserves, short-term Treasuries, and cash equivalents, PayPal’s stablecoin could offer a more efficient and cost-effective option for companies looking to engage in international business. Future Expansion Plans for PYUSD After launching PYUSD in August 2023, initially limited to Ethereum, PayPal has expanded the stablecoin's availability to additional blockchains. In May 2024, support was added for Solana, followed by integration with Cardano in January 2025. These moves are designed to make PYUSD more accessible and practical for both business transactions and everyday purchases. Hyperwallet to Facilitate PYUSD Payouts PayPal is also enhancing the utility of PYUSD by integrating it into Hyperwallet, a global payment service acquired in 2018. Hyperwallet facilitates mass payouts to freelancers, contractors, and sellers worldwide. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Stablecoins are becoming essential for global commerce in 2025 <br><br>Yesterday at its investor day, PayPal announced <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PYUSD&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PYUSD</a> expansion to Hyperwallet, cutting fees and speeding up international payments, for millions of businesses 💼<br><br>Soon you'll be able to pay companies like… <a href="https://t.co/OuPrGqEWYP">pic.twitter.com/OuPrGqEWYP</a></p>— BrotherHood (@BHVenture) <a href="https://twitter.com/BHVenture/status/1894673290998030697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> By the end of Q2 2025, PayPal plans to allow businesses to send payments in PYUSD, further driving adoption of the stablecoin. This expansion will give more users access to PYUSD’s benefits in global transactions, as PayPal continues to refine its strategy for incorporating digital assets. PYUSD’s Role in PayPal’s Growth Despite a decline in PYUSD’s market cap from over $1 billion to $704 million due to market fluctuations, PayPal remains optimistic about the stablecoin’s potential. The company is betting on international transactions to drive future growth. Gill noted that “a lot of the payments we’re expecting are going to be cross-border because merchants in the US are seeking to pay vendors and suppliers abroad.” With PayPal setting a target to grow its earnings by 20% by 2027, the integration of PYUSD across various platforms is seen as key to achieving this goal. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My quick take on <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PYPL&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PYPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PayPal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PayPal</a> after their impressive Investor Day yesterday:<br><br>We can now call this PayPal 2.0, as most of the executive team joined the company less than 15 months ago. <br><br>Their new aspiration is to transform from a payments company into a commerce platform, with… <a href="https://t.co/8HR33NI6tS">pic.twitter.com/8HR33NI6tS</a></p>— Kent (@KentEkasak) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentEkasak/status/1894669078440423870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The company’s efforts to streamline cross-border payments, reduce friction in business transactions, and expand into new blockchain networks demonstrate its commitment to the future of digital currency. PayPal CEO Alex Chriss also emphasised the long-term vision, explaining that while the company has been involved in blockchain technology for nearly a decade, only now can the concept "actually start to spend." As the company works to integrate digital assets into its ecosystem, PYUSD is set to play an essential role in PayPal’s ongoing evolution. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: PayPal is expanding its PYUSD stablecoin into business operations, aiming to streamline cross-border payments and integrate it into bill payments for over 20 million merchants. The company is also adding support for more blockchains and integrating PYUSD into its global payment service, Hyperwallet, to enhance international transactions. You said: PayPal Expands PYUSD Stablecoin Beyond Experimentation PayPal is shifting its PayPal USD (PYUSD) stablecoin away from its experimental phase and into a broader business strategy. Following a series of updates shared at the company's recent investor day in New York, executives detailed their ambitious goals for the stablecoin, including integration into both cross-border payments and existing business operations. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🔥 NEW: PayPal plans to expand the integration of its stablecoin, PYUSD.<br><br>By the end of the year, PayPal plans to enable its 20M+ small and medium sized merchants to use PYUSD for payments. <a href="https://t.co/ig90v5MaKs">pic.twitter.com/ig90v5MaKs</a></p>— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cointelegraph/status/1894568219806949809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> PYUSD Integration Into Merchants' Bill Payments One of PayPal's key plans for PYUSD is its integration into the company's bill-pay product, which will allow merchants to pay vendors using the stablecoin. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">⚡️ JUST IN: PayPal plans to boost <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PYUSD&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PYUSD</a> adoption in 2025 with a bill payment product, enabling 20M+ merchants to pay suppliers via stablecoin, enhancing efficiency. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CryptoNews?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CryptoNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PayPal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PayPal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Stablecoin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Stablecoin</a> <a href="https://t.co/0XWYrRjRwe">pic.twitter.com/0XWYrRjRwe</a></p>— CryptoMarketControl (@CryptoMarketCon) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMarketCon/status/1894764178746782159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> This feature is expected to roll out later in 2025, marking a significant expansion for PYUSD. Michelle Gill, PayPal’s General Manager for Small and Medium Enterprises, shared with Bloomberg, "The thesis was: Can we facilitate that on PYUSD rails so as not to have the currency conversion, the friction, as well as time?" This move will give businesses an alternative to traditional currency conversions and time-consuming international transfers. Cross-Border Payments: Reducing Friction in Global Transactions A major focus of PayPal's PYUSD initiative is addressing the challenges faced by U.S. merchants when making cross-border payments. The company aims to streamline international transactions, reducing the need for currency conversion and cutting down on transaction times. With PYUSD’s backing by U.S. dollar reserves, short-term Treasuries, and cash equivalents, PayPal’s stablecoin could offer a more efficient and cost-effective option for companies looking to engage in international business. Future Expansion Plans for PYUSD After launching PYUSD in August 2023, initially limited to Ethereum, PayPal has expanded the stablecoin's availability to additional blockchains. In May 2024, support was added for Solana, followed by integration with Cardano in January 2025. These moves are designed to make PYUSD more accessible and practical for both business transactions and everyday purchases. Hyperwallet to Facilitate PYUSD Payouts PayPal is also enhancing the utility of PYUSD by integrating it into Hyperwallet, a global payment service acquired in 2018. Hyperwallet facilitates mass payouts to freelancers, contractors, and sellers worldwide. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Stablecoins are becoming essential for global commerce in 2025 <br><br>Yesterday at its investor day, PayPal announced <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PYUSD&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PYUSD</a> expansion to Hyperwallet, cutting fees and speeding up international payments, for millions of businesses 💼<br><br>Soon you'll be able to pay companies like… <a href="https://t.co/OuPrGqEWYP">pic.twitter.com/OuPrGqEWYP</a></p>— BrotherHood (@BHVenture) <a href="https://twitter.com/BHVenture/status/1894673290998030697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> By the end of Q2 2025, PayPal plans to allow businesses to send payments in PYUSD, further driving adoption of the stablecoin. This expansion will give more users access to PYUSD’s benefits in global transactions, as PayPal continues to refine its strategy for incorporating digital assets. PYUSD’s Role in PayPal’s Growth Despite a decline in PYUSD’s market cap from over $1 billion to $704 million due to market fluctuations, PayPal remains optimistic about the stablecoin’s potential. The company is betting on international transactions to drive future growth. Gill noted that “a lot of the payments we’re expecting are going to be cross-border because merchants in the US are seeking to pay vendors and suppliers abroad.” With PayPal setting a target to grow its earnings by 20% by 2027, the integration of PYUSD across various platforms is seen as key to achieving this goal. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My quick take on <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PYPL&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PYPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PayPal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PayPal</a> after their impressive Investor Day yesterday:<br><br>We can now call this PayPal 2.0, as most of the executive team joined the company less than 15 months ago. <br><br>Their new aspiration is to transform from a payments company into a commerce platform, with… <a href="https://t.co/8HR33NI6tS">pic.twitter.com/8HR33NI6tS</a></p>— Kent (@KentEkasak) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentEkasak/status/1894669078440423870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The company’s efforts to streamline cross-border payments, reduce friction in business transactions, and expand into new blockchain networks demonstrate its commitment to the future of digital currency. PayPal CEO Alex Chriss also emphasised the long-term vision, explaining that while the company has been involved in blockchain technology for nearly a decade, only now can the concept "actually start to spend." As the company works to integrate digital assets into its ecosystem, PYUSD is set to play an essential role in PayPal’s ongoing evolution. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: PayPal is expanding its PYUSD stablecoin to 20 million small and medium-sized merchants for payments and bill payments, aiming to simplify cross-border transactions. The company is also integrating PYUSD into its global payment service, Hyperwallet, to further drive adoption and support international business. You said: On-chain data has surfaced revealing potentially illicit transactions involving wallets tied to MELANIA and LIBRA token insiders. The analysis indicates that significant sums were funneled through various accounts, including a common wallet, leading to serious allegations of financial misconduct. mention last night ChatGPT said: On-chain data that surfaced last night reveals potentially illicit transactions involving wallets linked to MELANIA and LIBRA token insiders. The analysis suggests large sums were moved through multiple accounts, raising serious concerns about financial misconduct. You said: Suspicious Transactions Linked to MELANIA and LIBRA Insider Teams Raise Concerns Lookonchain has surfaced revealing potentially illicit transactions involving wallets tied to MELANIA and LIBRA token insiders. The blockchain analytics firm posted on X last night that significant sums were funneled through various accounts, including a common wallet, leading to serious allegations of financial misconduct. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It seems that the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24LIBRA&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$LIBRA</a> and $MELANIA insider team is laundering funds.<br><br>They spent 19,846 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24SOL&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$SOL</a>($2.76M) to buy a memecoin(POPE) with a market cap of less than $150K, and sold it for 175 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24SOL&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$SOL</a>($24K), losing $2.73M!<br><br>That $2.73M was effectively funneled to other wallets in a "legal"… <a href="https://t.co/ACDC0EDcjx">pic.twitter.com/ACDC0EDcjx</a></p>— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) <a href="https://twitter.com/lookonchain/status/1894757929204813828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> $2.76 Million Spent on POPE, Resulting in Significant Loss According to the Lookonchain, insiders behind the MELANIA and LIBRA tokens spent a massive 19,846 Solana (SOL) — equivalent to $2.76 million — to acquire POPE, a meme coin. However, the tokens were later sold for only $24,000, resulting in a substantial loss of over $2.7 million. The funds from this sale were subsequently transferred to other wallets, raising suspicions of potential money laundering activities. Financial Tactics Draw Scrutiny as Transactions Surge The same analysis identified a disturbing surge in large transactions from both MELANIA and LIBRA-linked wallets. Transactions exceeding $100,000 increased by over 400% for MELANIA and 350% for LIBRA. This sharp rise in activity came amid allegations of illicit financial activity, as investors moved their assets in response to the unfolding scandal. Libra Insiders Named in Alleged Laundering Scheme Bubblemaps, a blockchain data analysis firm, revealed that the individuals behind both the MELANIA and LIBRA tokens were closely connected. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">6/ This means the creator of Melania—or someone close to their team—sniped their own launch<br><br>We kept a close eye on this address to track their activity</p>— Bubblemaps (@bubblemaps) <a href="https://twitter.com/bubblemaps/status/1891289880837148976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> It was further disclosed that the same network of insiders was linked to several other controversial projects, including VIBES, KACY, and TRUST. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">9/ But there’s more to the story. We’ve detected many token launches linked to 0xcEA, most of which are clear pump and dumps. Here’s some of them:<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TRUST&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TRUST</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24KACY&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$KACY</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24VIBES&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$VIBES</a> — and even <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24HOOD&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$HOOD</a><a href="https://t.co/zTFYGU2uep">https://t.co/zTFYGU2uep</a></p>— Bubblemaps (@bubblemaps) <a href="https://twitter.com/bubblemaps/status/1891290209561526447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> In one instance, an address tied to MELANIA was found to have earned $6 million from its involvement with LIBRA, using multiple wallets to disguise the transactions. The Role of Argentina’s President in LIBRA’s Collapse The LIBRA token’s brief rise to prominence saw a surge in value after Argentine President Javier Milei publicly endorsed it. In a tweet, he described the coin as a promising opportunity for investors looking to support small businesses in Argentina. This endorsement sparked a frenzy, propelling the token’s value to over $5 within an hour, reaching a market cap of more than $4 billion. However, shortly after, the token’s value crashed by over 80%, leading to suspicions of market manipulation. In response to the token’s collapse, President Milei retracted his endorsement and initiated an investigation into the project. He stated that he was unaware of the details surrounding the LIBRA coin and, upon learning about them, decided not to promote it further. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">Hace unas horas publiqué un tweet, como tantas otras infinitas veces, apoyando un supuesto emprendimiento privado del que obviamente no tengo vinculación alguna. <br><br>No estaba interiorizado de los pormenores del proyecto y luego de haberme interiorizado decidí no seguir dándole…</p>— Javier Milei (@JMilei) <a href="https://twitter.com/JMilei/status/1890606683291779195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Translation: A few hours ago I posted a tweet, as I have so many other times, supporting a supposed private enterprise with which I obviously have no connection whatsoever. I was not aware of the details of the project and after having become aware of it I decided not to continue spreading the word (that is why I deleted the tweet). To the filthy rats of the political caste who want to take advantage of this situation to do harm, I want to say that every day they confirm how vile politicians are, and they increase our conviction to kick them in the ass. VLLC! Critics, however, have called for his impeachment, alleging that he may have facilitated fraud by endorsing the project. MELANIA Token Faces Sharp Decline Following Initial Surge The MELANIA token, launched on 19 January 2025, quickly gained attention after it was endorsed by former First Lady Melania Trump. The token saw a market cap of $4 billion within just 30 minutes of its release. However, this meteoric rise was short-lived, as its value plummeted by more than 90%, falling from $13.7 to around $1.4 within hours. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The meme token $MELANIA has dropped by 90% since its launch a month ago. Despite this, it remains the 116th cryptocurrency by market cap. Investors who put in $13,000 now have $900.<br><br>ALWAYS INVEST WISELY AND BE CAUTIOUS. <a href="https://t.co/ASstXBZwd7">pic.twitter.com/ASstXBZwd7</a></p>— Ata💎 (@Atoxy021) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atoxy021/status/1894479909243732261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> LIBRA Scandal Spurs Investigation by US Authorities As the LIBRA token's creators face scrutiny, the US Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the token's creation and subsequent collapse. The probe is focusing on potential economic crimes, including market manipulation and fraud. Key figures, including the token's founders Hayden Davis and Julian Peh, as well as Argentine government officials, are under investigation. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The US Department of Justice has reportedly launched an investigation into President Javier Milei’s promotion of <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24LIBRA&src=ctag&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$LIBRA</a> and the role of its founders, including Kelsier Ventures’ Hayden Davis, KIP Protocol’s Julian Peh, and two Argentine entrepreneurs. <a href="https://t.co/mAx9sCuDGd">pic.twitter.com/mAx9sCuDGd</a></p>— cryptothedoggy (@cryptothedoggy) <a href="https://twitter.com/cryptothedoggy/status/1894832304733765976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The collapse of LIBRA, coupled with the allegations of insider trading and money laundering, has raised serious questions about the integrity of the broader meme coin market. With the US authorities involved, further developments are expected in the coming weeks. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. 2/2 ChatGPT said: On-chain data shows that insiders linked to MELANIA and LIBRA tokens moved large sums through multiple wallets, raising concerns about money laundering. The US Department of Justice is now investigating potential fraud, market manipulation, and the involvement of key figures, including LIBRA’s founders and Argentine officials. You said: FBI Issues Urgent Call to Block Transactions Linked to $1.5 Billion Bybit Hack The FBI has raised the alarm after confirming that a major cyberattack on cryptocurrency exchange Bybit was orchestrated by North Korean hackers. The theft, which saw approximately $1.5 billion in digital assets stolen, has prompted a request for action from the global crypto community, urging exchanges, blockchain analytics firms, and other industry players to block any transactions linked to the stolen funds. Source: FBI North Korean Hackers Behind Bybit Breach In a public service announcement, the FBI confirmed what had been speculated in the industry. The hack was the work of North Korea’s state-sponsored hacking group, known variously as TraderTraitor, Lazarus Group, APT38, BlueNoroff, and Stardust Chollima. This group has long been a threat to the crypto ecosystem, carrying out high-profile heists and laundering stolen funds to fund North Korea’s missile programmes. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bybit’s $1.5B hack is bullish - Lazarus has diamond hands.<br><br>Led by Park Jin Hyok, now wanted by the FBI.<br><br>They’ve just drained $1.46B in staked ETH & ERC-20 tokens from Bybit, making it the biggest crypto hack ever, twice the size of the second-largest breach.<br><br>How did they pull… <a href="https://t.co/OV1JzWmhYB">pic.twitter.com/OV1JzWmhYB</a></p>— arndxt (@arndxt_xo) <a href="https://twitter.com/arndxt_xo/status/1893166554612932790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> Bybit confirmed that the hack took place on 21 February 2025, when hackers intercepted a scheduled fund transfer from one of the exchange's cold wallets to a hot wallet. The stolen cryptocurrency was then redirected to a blockchain address controlled by the hackers. FBI's Warning to Crypto Node Operators In response to the breach, the FBI is urging crypto node operators, exchanges, bridges, DeFi services, and blockchain analytics companies to block any transactions linked to the stolen funds. The agency highlighted that the stolen assets are rapidly being laundered and dispersed across multiple addresses on different blockchains, complicating tracking efforts. The FBI also shared a list of 51 Ethereum addresses connected to the hackers. Source: FBI The authorities warned that these assets could eventually be converted into fiat currency, making it even harder to trace the stolen funds. The FBI further advised the private sector to take immediate action to help prevent further financial crime. Hackers Launder Stolen Funds through Multiple Channels Since the theft, the hackers have reportedly laundered over 135,000 Ether (ETH), with the funds being dispersed across a variety of wallets and exchanges. Blockchain forensics firms such as Chainalysis and Elliptic have tracked the movements, revealing that the stolen Ether has been converted into Bitcoin, stablecoins like Dai, and other assets through decentralised exchanges, cross-chain bridges, and services that lack Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols. ZachXBT, a well-known crypto fraud investigator, identified that some of the funds were routed through Ethereum addresses previously linked to other high-profile hacks attributed to the Lazarus Group. These findings were later confirmed by Elliptic and TRM Labs, both of which pointed to substantial overlaps between the addresses involved in the Bybit hack and previous North Korean thefts. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bybit stolen funds are likely headed to crypto mixers next, according to blockchain security firm Elliptic.<br><br>The Lazarus Group’s laundering process typically follows a characteristic pattern and it’s now engaged in the second stage of the laundering which involves layering the… <a href="https://t.co/9sFu5juZCO">pic.twitter.com/9sFu5juZCO</a></p>— Rollman Group (@Rollman_Group) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rollman_Group/status/1894067834755350875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> FBI Issues Public Service Announcement In an effort to prevent further laundering of the stolen assets, the FBI has made a public service announcement. The Bureau urged industry players to block transactions originating from the addresses tied to the North Korean hackers, saying, “TraderTraitor actors are proceeding rapidly and have converted some of the stolen assets to Bitcoin and other virtual assets dispersed across thousands of addresses on multiple blockchains.” The FBI’s warning underscores the seriousness of the situation, highlighting that these funds are likely to continue being laundered and eventually converted into fiat currency, a process that could fuel further criminal activities. Hackers Use Safe{Wallet} Platform to Access Funds The hack targeted Bybit’s Safe{Wallet} platform, with the attackers gaining access through a compromised developer machine. The hack was first investigated by cybersecurity firms Sygnia and Verichains, who revealed that a disguised malicious transaction proposal was made after infiltrating the Safe{Wallet} infrastructure. This breach is part of a broader pattern of North Korean-backed cyberattacks on the cryptocurrency sector. According to Chainalysis, North Korean hackers stole over $1.3 billion in crypto during 2024 alone, and Elliptic reported that the Lazarus Group has stolen more than $6 billion in total since 2017. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">In our latest blog, we look at how the near-$1.5 billion Bybit exploit occurred, the attackers’ link to the DPRK, and how we are collaborating with Bybit and law enforcement to help recover funds: <a href="https://t.co/MOh0JQZd9V">https://t.co/MOh0JQZd9V</a> <a href="https://t.co/iIwF2xm1b0">pic.twitter.com/iIwF2xm1b0</a></p>— Chainalysis (@chainalysis) <a href="https://twitter.com/chainalysis/status/1894132958878929142?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> The stolen funds are widely believed to be funnelled towards North Korea’s ballistic missile development programs. Summarise key factors into 2 short sentences. Simple words and clear. Focus on what happened. ChatGPT said: North Korean hackers stole $1.5 billion from Bybit, targeting the exchange’s Safe{Wallet} platform and using a compromised developer machine. The FBI has warned the crypto industry to block transactions linked to the stolen funds, as the hackers rapidly launder them across various blockchains. You said: focus on the warning ChatGPT said: The FBI has warned the crypto industry to block transactions linked to $1.5 billion stolen from Bybit, as the North Korean hackers are rapidly laundering the funds across multiple blockchains. The FBI urged exchanges, wallets, and blockchain services to take immediate action to prevent further financial crime.
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