Robinhood Markets' stock experienced a significant increase following the announcement of a $1 billion stock buyback program. The buyback is aimed at boosting investor confidence and stabilizing the company's stock price.

European crypto enthusiasts are experiencing FOMO as the U.S. SEC approved eleven spot bitcoin ETFs, while Europe already offers various crypto ETPs. Despite the larger potential of the U.S. market, Europe has been progressive with products like Bitcoin Tracker One and Bitcoin Tracker EUR. Key players in the European ETP market include 21Shares, CoinShares, and WisdomTree. Regulatory hurdles make a Bitcoin ETF unlikely in Europe. U.S. spot bitcoin ETFs saw significant trading volumes on their first day, with BlackRock and Grayscale products leading. Globally, crypto ETFs and ETPs have seen a 119.6% increase in 2023.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission has approved eleven spot Bitcoin ETFs, marking a significant milestone for the cryptocurrency market. However, the UK is unlikely to follow suit, as the Financial Conduct Authority remains cautious about approving similar products for retail investors. The FCA's concerns stem from the volatility and risks associated with crypto assets, and the regulatory requirements that US-listed ETFs do not meet. This decision highlights the differing regulatory approaches between the US and UK regarding cryptocurrency investment products.

A fee war has begun among Spot Bitcoin ETF issuers in anticipation of a possible approval by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Fees range from 0.24% to 0.5%, with some issuers offering temporary waivers. Bloomberg Intelligence analyst James Seyffart suggests the SEC may be forced to approve a Spot Bitcoin ETF. WisdomTree and VanEck have listed their ETFs on the DTCC, and the SEC's decision on the Ark 21Shares Bitcoin ETF is imminent. Laurent Kssis of CEC Capital notes fierce competition and potential limited benefits for custodians and service providers. Johnny Lyu, CEO of KuCoin, believes approval could lead to increased crypto adoption and regulatory clarity.

The article provides a guide to recognizing and avoiding common cryptocurrency scams, highlighting notorious cases such as Mt. Gox, OneCoin, Bitconnect, PlusToken, QuadrigaCX, Bitfinex, Tether, Terraform Labs, and the FTX collapse. It emphasizes the importance of due diligence, recognizing red flags, and conducting thorough research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The piece also discusses the broader economic implications of large-scale scams and the need for the crypto community to maintain trust and credibility.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has referenced the recent ruling on Terraform Labs in its ongoing lawsuits against cryptocurrency exchanges Coinbase and Binance, asserting that both exchanges violated securities laws. The SEC's ruling classified Terraform Labs' tokens UST and LUNA as securities, which it is now using to argue similar cases against Coinbase and Binance. Binance plans to delist several BUSD trading pairs and privacy coins due to regulatory concerns. Both exchanges are currently embroiled in legal battles with the SEC, which continues its crackdown on the crypto industry.

Cryptocurrency offers seniors an opportunity to diversify their investment portfolios with potential high returns, though it comes with risks such as volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and security concerns. The article provides a guide on understanding blockchain technology, the benefits and risks of investing in cryptocurrencies, and steps to start investing, including choosing a cryptocurrency and exchange, and ensuring security through wallets. It also highlights the importance of cybersecurity and the tax implications of cryptocurrency transactions, advising consultation with financial and tax professionals.

The article discusses the role of data mining in cryptocurrency, highlighting its importance in market analysis, risk management, and security. It addresses the environmental concerns of traditional proof-of-work (PoW) mining and the shift towards more sustainable proof-of-stake (PoS) systems by projects like Ethereum, Cardano, and Tezos. The text also explores privacy issues related to data mining in cryptocurrency and the regulatory focus on energy consumption and privacy. It mentions eco-friendly initiatives like Quebec's hydroelectric power and El Salvador's geothermal energy for Bitcoin mining, emphasizing the need for a balance between innovation, environmental sustainability, and user privacy.

Lee Chang-yong, the governor of South Korea's central bank, has emphasized the urgency of researching central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), particularly in light of the rise of stablecoins. Although the Bank of Korea has not decided on issuing a CBDC, the complexity and planning involved are acknowledged. The “2023 MOEF-BOK-FSC-IMF International Conference on Digital Money” in Seoul served as a platform for discussing the evolving financial landscape due to digital money. Kim So-young, Vice Chairman of the Financial Services Commission, highlighted the importance of regulatory balance to foster both investor protection and innovation.

StarkWare, an Ethereum developer, has launched the 'Devonomics Pilot Program' to pay 10% of its network fees to developers, with the first distribution amounting to 1,600 ETH or $3.5 million. The payments, which will eventually be made in StarkNet Tokens STRK, aim to incentivize builders to expand the network. The program is a collaboration between StarkWare and the Starknet Foundation, and payments will be automated and based on the fees generated by each dApp.

Taiwan's Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) has established a Financial Technology Bureau to oversee cryptocurrencies, aiming to protect investors and enhance regulation. This move follows calls from legislator Kuo Kuo-Wen and is part of Taiwan's broader efforts to strengthen crypto regulation. The FSC-managed bureau will focus on increasing oversight in the cryptocurrency market. Recently, Taipei-based Kronos Research experienced a significant cybersecurity breach, resulting in a $26 million loss in crypto assets.

M&G Plc has invested $20 million in the bitcoin derivatives exchange Global Futures & Options Holdings (GFO-X) to support regulated trading of digital assets and cater to institutional investors. GFO-X, in partnership with the London Clearing House and regulated by the FCA, aims to become a regulated trading venue for digital currency asset derivatives. The investment, part of a series B funding round, comes from M&G’s Crossover strategy through the Prudential With Profits Fund. Portfolio Manager Jeremy Punnett highlighted the need for regulated venues to foster growth in digital currency trading and expressed confidence in the UK's potential as a global hub for digital asset technology and investment.

Web3Auth, supported by major investors like Binance, has collaborated with Safe to introduce SafeAuth, a service enabling quick wallet creation without seed phrases. This innovation integrates Web3Auth's social login technology with Safe's account abstraction, enhancing user experience by allowing seamless interaction across decentralized applications. The launch is seen as a significant advancement in crypto wallet technology, emphasizing interoperability and security.

At Benzinga’s Fintech Deal Day event in New York, panelists discussed the transformative potential and responsible use of AI in FinTech. André Beganski moderated the discussion with Antonio Goncalves, Paul Fahey, and Traci Mabrey. Fahey highlighted the early stages of AI in investment, while Goncalves emphasized the potential for AI to automate portfolio management. Mabrey stressed the importance of media literacy and the challenges of misinformation. The discussion underscored the need for responsible AI use in the industry.

Industry experts at Benzinga’s Fintech Deal Day event in New York discussed managing market volatility and effective risk management strategies. Michael Green highlighted the rising trend of fixed allocation frameworks and the unique current market scenario with an increased supply of bonds. Kaitlin Meyer emphasized the growing demand for new market products driven by accessibility and the desire for instant gratification, pointing to the popularity of platforms like Robinhood. Kris Sidial discussed the potential risks associated with the increasing use of 0DTE options for generating passive income, noting the heightened market volatility.

Steve Quirk, Robinhood's chief brokerage officer, spoke at Benzinga's Fintech Deal Day & Awards in New York, highlighting the company's role in democratizing investing by offering commission-free trades and technology that was once expensive, now for free. He criticized a 'paternalistic state' attitude towards young investors and emphasized the importance of education. Quirk also noted Robinhood's evolution alongside its customers, with many seeking additional services like retirement planning and opportunities to earn yield.

Brendan Berry from Ripple expressed excitement about the tokenization trend at Benzinga's Future Of Digital Assets event in New York, highlighting its potential to revolutionize asset access through blockchain technology. He cited data predicting a $10 trillion market for tokenized assets by 2030. The discussion, moderated by Feroz Lakhani, included insights from Joshua Pulman and Josip Rupena. Berry noted HSBC's partnership with Metaco as a significant move towards tokenizing securities and gold, illustrating major financial institutions' growing interest in this trend.

Two crypto industry leaders, Ash Bennington and Brett Harrison, discussed the aftermath of the FTX scandal at the Benzinga Future Of Digital Assets event in New York. Harrison criticized Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) for his role in the financial fraud, emphasizing the need to hold him accountable and move beyond the incident. He highlighted the importance of skepticism in detecting fraud and contrasted genuine innovation, like that of OpenAI, with the chaotic growth of FTX. The discussion serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the need for regulatory clarity in the crypto industry.

At Benzinga's Fintech Deal Day & Awards in New York, CoinDesk's Chief Content Officer Michael Casey led a panel on blockchain technology's role in enhancing transaction security. Panelists, including Jay Biancamano from State Street Digital, John Avery from FIS Global, and Thomas Sullivan from Société Générale, discussed the industry's progress and challenges. Key points included the lengthy development timeline for blockchain, the need for a unified focus on specific use cases, and the importance of trust and regulatory approval, especially in light of the FTX fallout.

At the Benzinga Future Of Digital Assets event, Ash Bennington and Brett Harrison discussed the recovery of the cryptocurrency sector post-FTX crisis. Harrison predicts a spot Bitcoin ETF will be approved in early 2024, noting that the market hasn't fully priced in this development due to uncertainties with the US SEC's decision. He anticipates the ETF's approval will significantly boost spot cryptocurrency volumes, despite concerns it might stifle Bitcoin trading volumes. The discussion also touched on the potential for an ether ETF and the broader implications for cryptocurrency markets.

The upcoming Bitcoin halving event in April 2024 is generating cautious optimism, with potential for significant price movements in the cryptocurrency market. This follows the Ethereum merge, which saw only slight price changes. The event aligns with themes of accessibility and mainstream crypto adoption, to be discussed at Benzinga's Future of Digital Assets conference in New York City, featuring industry leaders like BlackRock, DTCC, and Amazon.

Wall Street firms are increasingly focusing on tokenizing assets using blockchain technology. State Street Global Advisors, BlackRock, and Citigroup are among the key players exploring this space. Tokenization is seen as a game-changer for asset classes, offering efficiencies in capital markets and improved investor access. Analysts predict the market for tokenized assets could grow to $10 trillion by 2030. Key industry players will discuss these developments at upcoming fintech events.

Bitcoin extended its rally, surpassing $27,000 for the first time since August, with other digital assets like Solana, Litecoin, and Bitcoin Cash also seeing significant gains. The Federal Reserve is expected to maintain steady borrowing rates, which typically reduces the appeal of high-risk assets such as cryptocurrencies. Experts like Mati Greenspan and Dessislava Ianeva provided insights on the market conditions and potential future movements.

Digital Currency Group (DCG) is nearing an agreement to sell its media company CoinDesk to a group of investors led by Matthew Roszak and Peter Vessenes. The transaction is valued at approximately $125 million. DCG, led by Barry Silbert, has faced significant challenges, including the collapse of FTX and the bankruptcy of its subsidiary Genesis Global Holdco. The company has been involved in settlement talks with creditors and has closed some of its businesses to raise funds. Gemini Trust Co. has also filed a lawsuit against DCG for alleged fraud.

The bankruptcy trustee for Mt. Gox, a collapsed crypto exchange, has extended the deadline for creditor repayments by 12 months to October 31, 2024. The extension is needed to gather and verify additional information from creditors and to coordinate with banks and other parties. Mt. Gox, once the largest Bitcoin exchange, collapsed in 2014, significantly impacting the early crypto markets.

Digital Currency Group is nearing a deal to sell its media company CoinDesk to an investor group led by Matthew Roszak and Peter Vessenes. The transaction's enterprise value is approximately $125 million. The Wall Street Journal initially reported the potential sale.

Digital Currency Group is nearing a deal to sell its media company CoinDesk to an investor group led by longtime crypto investor Matthew Roszak and Peter Vessenes. The transaction's enterprise value is approximately $125 million. The Wall Street Journal initially reported on the potential sale.

The bankruptcy trustee of the collapsed crypto exchange Mt. Gox has extended the deadline for repaying creditors by 12 months to October 31, 2024. The extension is needed to gather and verify additional information from creditors and to coordinate with banks and other parties. Mt. Gox, once the world's largest Bitcoin exchange, collapsed in 2014, significantly impacting the early crypto markets. The trustee currently holds 141,686 Bitcoin, along with cash and Bitcoin Cash tokens.

The UK's financial regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), has tightened rules on cryptoasset marketing, including banning 'refer a friend' bonuses and introducing a 24-hour cooling-off period for first-time investors starting October 8. This move is part of a global trend of increased oversight on cryptocurrencies to address issues like money laundering, lack of investor protections, and fraud. The UK is also working on a broader set of cryptoasset regulations.

Valkyrie Funds CIO Steven McClurg suggests that Ripple and Ethereum spot ETFs could soon enter the market, following Grayscale's addition of XRP to their publicly traded assets. McClurg anticipates the US SEC will approve spot Bitcoin ETFs, with trading to commence shortly after. Nearly a dozen Bitcoin ETF applicants are reducing management fees to gain competitive advantage, with Fidelity, Bitwise, and Wisdomtree among those adjusting their fee structures. Bloomberg Intelligence's James Seyffart notes these changes reflect feedback from the SEC.

Exchange-traded funds could represent 10% of Bitcoin's market value within three years if the US approves a direct investment fund, according to a Sanford C. Bernstein report. Analyst Gautam Chhugani notes the increased probability of a spot Bitcoin ETF, with the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust currently holding about 4% of Bitcoin. Regulatory approval is expected to drive significant retail and institutional investment. The US SEC recently delayed its decision on the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF application, with more reviews scheduled for September.

Exchange-traded funds could represent 10% of Bitcoin's market value within three years if the US approves a fund investing directly in the cryptocurrency, according to a Sanford C. Bernstein report. Analyst Gautam Chhugani noted the increasing probability of a spot Bitcoin ETF. Currently, the Grayscale Bitcoin Trust holds about 4% of Bitcoin. Regulatory approval is expected to drive significant retail and institutional investment flows. The US Securities and Exchange Commission recently delayed its decision on the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF.

Bitcoin fell below $26,000 for the first time in two months due to rising global government bond yields and risk aversion in the cryptocurrency market. The decline has nearly erased gains from BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF filing in June. Bitcoin's value dropped around 9% to $26,338, briefly touching $25,314. Analysts attribute the decline to a lack of positive news in the crypto space, rising interest rates, and weakened risk appetite. The cryptocurrency has been trading in a narrow range with decreasing volatility, and broader market weaknesses have also contributed to its decline.

Bill Wilson, former head of growth at Gemini Trust Co., has joined New York-based digital-banking startup Cogni Inc. in a similar role. Wilson, who left Gemini in April, will be responsible for customer acquisition and marketing at Cogni. Gemini, led by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, recently announced workforce reductions.

Bitcoin has dropped to its lowest level in almost two months as risk aversion weighs on the cryptocurrency market, coinciding with global bond yields reaching their highest level in 15 years. The most valuable type of digital asset by market value fell by up to 2.1% to $28,335 before paring its losses. Other cryptocurrencies traded mixed, with Ether down about 1.2%, while Cardano (ADA) and Solana (SOL) coins rose by about 1.5%. The rise in global yields comes as resilient economic data challenges the notion that central bank interest rates have peaked. Higher rates generally reduce the appeal of unconventional investments like cryptocurrencies. The latest drop in Bitcoin follows a period of months where the cryptocurrency traded within a narrow range, with volatility reaching its lowest level since 2016.

Web3 gaming firm Illuvium has secured $12 million in a series A funding round led by King River Capital, Arrington Capital, and Animoca Ventures. The funds will support the development of new games within the Illuvium ecosystem, which features a revenue-sharing model allowing players to earn ILV tokens. Illuvium's complex play-to-earn ecosystem includes interconnected games and has recently been listed on Epic Games. Additionally, King River Capital, Immutable, and Polygon Labs have launched a $100 million gaming fund to identify high-growth opportunities in the sector.

South Korea's tax authority, the Korea Customs Service, and five major cryptocurrency exchanges, including Bithumb, Coinone, Korbit, and Streami, have formed a committee to prevent illegal foreign transactions. The Digital Asset Exchange Association (DAXA), comprising the country's top cryptocurrency exchanges, will play an advisory role. The committee aims to address illegal foreign exchange transactions linked to cryptocurrencies and will collaborate with regulators and organizations. The Financial Services Commission has also announced measures to curb illegal fund outflows, including a ban on using credit cards to purchase cryptocurrency. Additionally, South Korean agencies are investigating a recent $82 million hack of the Orbit Bridge.

One of the largest decentralized lenders in the cryptocurrency space, MakerDAO, has significantly invested in US government bonds, boosting its governance coin, MKR, to an 18-month high. MKR has surged 77% this quarter, making it the best performer among major cryptocurrencies tracked by Bloomberg. MakerDAO currently oversees $4.6 billion in assets.

MakerDAO, a major decentralized lender in the cryptocurrency space, has reaffirmed its strategy to invest billions in US government bonds, resulting in its governance coin, MKR, reaching an 18-month high and outperforming major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. MKR has seen a 77% increase this quarter, reaching its highest value since April 2022, despite a slight decline on a recent Friday. MakerDAO currently oversees $4.6 billion in assets.

Bitcoin, along with other digital assets, continued its upward trajectory on Monday, surpassing the US$27,000 mark for the first time since August. The increase follows Bitcoin's recent positive weekly performance, marking its first weekly gain in five weeks. The rise coincides with expectations that the Federal Reserve will maintain current interest rates at its monetary policy meeting this week. Mati Greenspan of Quantum Economics commented on Bitcoin's stability above the US$25,000 psychological support and potential profit-taking above US$30,000. Analysts, including Dessislava Ianeva from Kaiko, are questioning the sustainability of the rally, noting the current low liquidity environment could amplify spot price movements and stimulate liquidations in derivative markets.

The Jacobi Bitcoin ETF, despite being a significant development in the cryptocurrency market, failed to generate excitement on social media and experienced thin trading. The focus of the crypto world was on whether the US SEC would approve an exchange-traded fund tied to the spot price of Bitcoin, with notable applicants including BlackRock.

Cryptocurrencies have extended their decline, sliding with other global risk assets as investors anticipate high interest rates to persist. A report on Elon Musk's SpaceX selling its Bitcoin holdings has further fueled investor concerns. Bitcoin is on track for its biggest weekly drop in three months, having reached its lowest level since 25,314 dollars. Over a billion dollars in positions were liquidated in the past 24 hours due to price drops. The broader markets are experiencing a sell-off as the dollar weakens, and the sell-off of digital coins continues amid weak liquidity. Analysts suggest that if Bitcoin falls below the support level of 25,000 dollars, it could accelerate liquidations. Other smaller cryptocurrencies have also declined. The momentum has nearly erased gains recorded after BlackRock's Inc. announced a Bitcoin ETF on June 15. Optimism had crept into the market following reports that the U.S. SEC is ready to allow the first ETFs based on Ethereum futures.

Cryptocurrencies extended their decline, sliding with other global risk assets as investors anticipate high interest rates to persist. A report on Elon Musk's SpaceX selling its bitcoin holdings further fueled concerns. Bitcoin was on track for its biggest weekly drop in three months after reaching a low of $25,314. Over $1 billion in positions were liquidated in the past 24 hours due to price drops. Market analysts suggest that if the sell-off in global risk assets continues, bitcoin could face further declines. The broader markets experienced a pullback as the dollar weakened, but the sell-off in digital coins continued. BlackRock's Inc.'s announcement of a bitcoin ETF on June 15 briefly boosted gains, but bitcoin has since fallen nearly 7% since the end of March. Optimism arose after Bloomberg reported the U.S. SEC was ready to allow the first Ethereum futures ETFs.

A period of unusual calm in crypto markets ended abruptly this week as the notion of higher-for-longer interest rates sparked a selloff in risk assets like Bitcoin, leading to mass liquidations of bullish bets. Bitcoin's value plummeted from nearly $29,000 to as low as $25,314 within 24 hours, with over $1 billion in positions unwound during the sell-off. The cryptocurrency was down 6% to $26,134 at 1.14pm on Friday in New York.

Cryptocurrencies experienced a downturn, with Bitcoin falling below $26,000 for the first time in two months amid rising global yields and resilient economic data suggesting central bank rates may not be peaking. This has reduced the appeal of cryptocurrencies as alternative investments. Ether, Cardano, and Solana also saw declines. Market volatility for Bitcoin has been low, with 90-day volatility at its lowest since 2016. The lack of a resolution for the Grayscale Bitcoin ETF and weaknesses in traditional markets, U.S. Treasury rates, and Chinese economic data have negatively impacted risk assets.

Bitcoin's value dropped below $26,000 for the first time in two months amidst rising global government bond yields and a general risk aversion in the cryptocurrency market. The decline nearly wiped out gains following BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF filing in June. Analysts attribute the fall to a lack of positive crypto news, rising interest rates, and weakening risk appetite. Traditional markets have also been weak, with tech stocks selling off and the dollar strengthening. Bitcoin's 90-day volatility hit its lowest since 2016.

Bitcoin fell below $26,000 for the first time in two months due to risk aversion in the cryptocurrency market and rising global bond yields. The digital asset dropped around 9% to $26,338, briefly touching $25,314, its lowest since June 16. Higher interest rates are reducing the appeal of alternative investments like cryptocurrencies. The decline follows a period of narrow trading margins and low volatility for Bitcoin. Market experts attribute the drop to various factors, including weak traditional markets, high 10-year yields, a strong dollar, and negative economic data from China.

BitGo Holdings Inc. has abandoned its plans to acquire Prime Trust due to allegations of a customer funds shortfall. The Nevada Financial Institutions Division has ordered Prime Trust to halt all deposits and suspend customer withdrawals as it addresses the state's concerns.

BitGo Holdings Inc. has canceled its plans to acquire the parent company of Prime Trust, which is facing allegations of a customer funds shortfall. The Nevada Financial Institutions Division has ordered Prime Trust to stop all deposits and withdrawals within the state, prompting Prime Trust to suspend customer withdrawals to address the state's concerns.

Bill Wilson, previously head of growth at Gemini Trust Co., has joined the digital-banking startup Cogni Inc. as head of customer acquisition and marketing. Cogni, a New York-based company founded in 2018, provides free checking accounts and a crypto wallet. Gemini, led by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has recently reduced its workforce and is facing other business challenges.

Flowdesk, a French cryptocurrency trading technology firm, is planning to more than double its workforce to 140 employees by the end of the year and expand overseas, despite the recent downturn in the digital asset sector. The expansion will include new staff in Paris, Singapore, and a forthcoming New York office. The company is backed by Ledger and Coinbase Ventures, and will be hiring for business development, trading, operational, legal, and compliance roles.

The article discusses the concept of a 'digital dollar' in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. While acknowledging that the pandemic is currently a more pressing issue for governments and the scientific community, the article notes that there has been increased discussion about the digital dollar. It mentions a recent legislative proposal by U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, the 'Banking For All Act', which has been referred to the Senate’s Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs. The bill would require banks to maintain digital wallets for individuals and organizations to receive government payments, allowing the creation of 'FedAccounts' at local banks.