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Showing posts from December, 2023

Blockchain Life 2024 will gather a record 8000 attendees in Dubai

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On April 15-16, Blockchain Life 2024 is going to prove its status as one of the main crypto events of the year bringing together over 8,000 crypto enthusiasts and thousands of international companies in the globally recognized crypto capital of Dubai. Learn more and buy a ticket: https://blockchain-life.com/asia/en/ The event unites top crypto players from Web3, Cryptocurrencies and mining industries from 120 countries. What to expect: Premium community of crypto whales and industry leaders More than 160 experts having a speech and analyzing the market from the stage More than 150 key industry companies featured at the exhibition and promising Startups Dozens of teams at the Startup Pitch contest – traditionally many of these projects will rise in a few months Smart networking app to find the one among the thousands Numerous formats for business networking The legendary AfterParty at one of the world's most renowned clubs – SKY2.0 “I have n

Critical Flaw in OKX Wallet: Urgent iOS Update Required

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Security Alert for OKX Wallet Users In a recent development, a notable blockchain security entity, Certik, has issued a warning to users of OKX Wallet. The firm's announcement highlights a significant security flaw discovered in the OKX Wallet application for iOS devices. Hazardous Remote Code Execution Identified Certik's investigation has unearthed a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in the app. An RCE allows cybercriminals to remotely manipulate a device from any location. This particular vulnerability poses a severe threat to user data and digital assets. OKX Reacts with Swift Update Following Certik's alert, OKX has promptly addressed the issue. The company has released an updated version of the app, devoid of the previously identified vulnerability. OKX’s proactive approach has been crucial in mitigating potential risks to its users. Certik emphatically advises, “Attention! We urge users of OKX wallets to update their iOS app to the latest version immediatel

HashKey Capital Singapore Gets Capital Markets Services License From MAS

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Hong Kong-based digital asset group HashKey's Singapore subsidiary, HashKey Capital Singapore, has secured a significant regulatory milestone, obtaining a full Capital Markets Services (CMS) licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This licence empowers the firm to deliver regulated fund management services primarily concerning capital markets products within Singapore. Regulatory Approval and Expansion Plans The licence acquisition, described as a pivotal development by the firm, marks a substantial move towards providing regulated fund management services from its Singapore base. Having applied for the licence in late 2021, the company expressed intentions to launch regulated funds and offer capital market products tailored for local customers. Focus on Local Community and Blockchain Integration HashKey Capital Singapore aims to bridge the gap between traditional and digital financial ecosystems. CEO Deng Chao emphasised the commitment to contribute to the local

OKX Crypto Exchange Faces Urgent Security Alert Over iOS Wallet Vulnerability

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OKX and Certik Security Vulnerability Cryptocurrency exchange OKX , in collaboration with blockchain security firm CertiK , has revealed a critical vulnerability in its iOS wallet, prompting an immediate call for users to update their applications. The 19 December announcement has stirred controversy over the timing of the disclosure, raising concerns about potential compromises to user data and crypto assets. 🚨 Attention! We urge users of OKX wallets to update their iOS app to the latest version immediately. Earlier this month, we identified and reported a critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in the OKX iOS App, leading to potential compromise of sensitive data and… — CertiK (@CertiK) December 19, 2023 This vulnerability, if exploited, poses a severe threat, leading to the potential compromise of sensitive data and, critically, users' crypto assets. OKX Response In response to the identified vulnerability, OKX swiftly confirmed the deployment of an update design

USDT Investment Fraud in Taiwan's 'Duo Duo Blind Box' Scheme

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The Fraudulent Scheme 45-year-old Mr. Hsu led a fraudulent pyramid scheme exploiting the elderly, establishing a fake investment platform and app named "DuoDuo Blind Boxes." They conducted investment seminars across Taiwan, enticing people to join by promising a 3% profit on reselling these blind boxes, pressuring them to become members and purchase USDT for deposit. Exploiting the Elderly From 2021 onwards, this fraudulent group targeted senior citizens, luring them with seemingly "free meal seminars." These events featured accomplices posing as lecturers, exploiting the elders' lack of knowledge about virtual currency transactions, and pitching the investment opportunity in the "blind box platform." The Deceptive Process Hsu and another individual, Mr. Guo, acted as hosts for these investment seminars. They amped up the atmosphere, bringing in guest lecturers halfway through the meal to explain how to make short-term investments for high profits. T

Nexon Invests $100 Million into Web3 Game MapleStory Universe

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Gaming industry giant Nexon has earmarked a $100 million investment to fuel the expansion of its Web3 intellectual property, MapleStory Universe. The company, currently valued at $27 billion, states that the $100 million injection primarily serves the purpose of securing operational funds. Kicking off the week with exciting news! MapleStory Universe recently received a whopping $100M investment. Talk about a GAME changer🤯!!!!!!!! Feel free to look forward to 2024😼😼 — MapleStory Universe (@MaplestoryU) December 18, 2023 MapleStory M, the original web2 MMORPG developed by Nexon and NSC, has seen great success since its launch in October 2016. By September 2023, the mobile game had achieved $600 million in cumulative sales, though reviews for the game in recent months have proved lacklustre. The game generated $55 million in just 35 days after entering the very competitive Chinese gaming market. Originating as an extension of Nexon's iconic MapleStory IP, which gained global p

Taiwanese Authorities Warn Against Cryptocurrency Betting in Upcoming Presidential Election

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Taiwan Cryptocurrency Warnings ⚠️ Ahead of Taiwan's presidential election, authorities issue a warning against using #cryptocurrency betting platforms for wagers, citing an ongoing investigation and summoning of individuals for questioning. https://t.co/KvcXJsaQKH — TWJ News (@TronWeekly) December 16, 2023 As the Taiwan presidential election on 13 January 2024 approaches, citizens are advised to refrain from using cryptocurrency betting platforms to wager on the election outcome. An ongoing investigation into such activities has prompted caution, resulting in the questioning of numerous individuals. 17 arrested for Taiwan election betting on crypto prediction market https://t.co/YhmWRNetBI pic.twitter.com/wSq1ASCv07 — Taiwan News (@TaiwanNewsEN) December 17, 2023 Polymarket Bets Under Scrutiny Reports highlight the involvement of Taiwanese residents in election betting on the decentralised platform Polymarket. Prosecutors and investigators have summoned several individuals for p

Revolutionizing Finance: Blockchain's Strides in 2023

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Franklin Templeton and Polygon Lead the Charge 2023 has been a pivotal year for blockchain technology, particularly in the realm of financial services. A standout example is Franklin Templeton, a global investment management firm, which initiated a mutual fund program using the Polygon blockchain. This innovative approach aimed at enhancing operational efficiency by integrating blockchain. The key benefits noted were heightened security, quicker transaction processing, and lower costs. By year's end, Franklin OnChain U.S. Government Money Fund had amassed approximately $329 million in net assets. Sandy Kaul, Head of Digital Asset and Industry Advisory Services at Franklin Templeton, noted the accelerated adoption of blockchain technology. He remarked on its significance in reshaping the global financial markets ecosystem, highlighting the increased involvement of financial companies and regulators in this evolution. MoneyGram International Embraces Stellar Blockchain Another sign

RepubliK and TON: Pioneering a User-Friendly Web3 Social Sphere

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Strategic Partnership Announced RepubliK, a SocialFi platform, has announced a strategic partnership with The Open Network (TON). This collaboration, set to launch in the second quarter of 2024, is a significant step in merging conventional social media with the innovations of Web3. It represents a move towards bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3, highlighting the evolving landscape of digital interaction. Streamlining User Experience RepubliK is set to revamp its user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) to resemble popular social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This approach aims to facilitate an intuitive transition for users to Web3 features, integrating familiar elements with advanced blockchain technology. Additionally, the platform offers simplified registration options, allowing users to use their email or single sign-on services like Gmail or Facebook. Engagement and Gamification In line with its user-centric approach, RepubliK plans to introduce gamificatio

bloXroute Labs' New Policy Shifts Blockchain Ethics

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Ethereum's MEV Relay Rethinks Censorship In an unexpected policy change, bloXroute Labs, known for its significant role in Ethereum block production, has decided to censor blocks containing transactions sanctioned by the US Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC). This move by bloXroute Labs, a key player in Ethereum's blockchain, marks a deviation from its previous stance on censorship resistance, stirring debate among Ethereum enthusiasts. Ethereum Community's Reaction BloXroute's announcement indicates that its Maximal Extraction Value (MEV) relays will no longer accept block bids with OFAC-sanctioned transactions. These transactions are linked to wallets identified by the US government for sanctions. This policy encompasses all MEV relays under bloXroute, notably the "bloXroute Max Profit" relay, a leading MEV relay since the Ethereum Merge. A Fine Line Between Regulation and Resistance BloXroute Labs asserts its dedication to Ethereum's decentralised

Crypto Exchange PayBito Set to Expand Workforce by 50% in Dubai and Singapore Offices

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PayBito's Workforce Expansion Signals Growth Plans PayBito, the Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange, is set to bolster its staff, eyeing a 50% increase in its Dubai and Singapore offices. The move is part of the company's strategy to double its workforce in the upcoming year, aligning with its commitment to delivering cutting-edge technological solutions to clients globally. Strategic Workforce Expansion PayBito aims to hire skilled professionals, matching diverse job roles, fostering career growth, and enhancing its capabilities. This strategic recruitment drive responds to the surge in the client base, reflecting the company's dedication to providing exceptional services in the competitive cryptocurrency market. CEO's Vision for Expansion Raj Chowdhury, CEO of PayBito, expresses enthusiasm about the expansion, linking it to the increased demand for their services. He states, "The decision to increase our team size is due to the surge in our client base. We

US Court Orders Binance to Pay $2.7 Billion in Settlement with CFTC

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Binance Settlement with CFTC Federal Court Enters Order Against Binance and Former CEO, Zhao, Concluding CFTC Enforcement Action: https://t.co/YJD1lglbsZ — CFTC (@CFTC) December 18, 2023 US court has approved a settlement against cryptocurrency exchange Binance and its former CEO, Changpeng "CZ" Zhao, requiring Binance to pay $2.7 billion and CZ to pay $150 million to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The court found violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and CFTC regulations, imposing penalties and directing Binance to disgorge ill-gotten transaction fees. This resolution concludes a long-standing case, with CZ stepping down as part of the settlement with the US Department of Justice, the Treasury Department, and the CFTC. Binance's former chief compliance officer, Samuel Lim, also faces a $1.5 million penalty. Binance Former Chief Compliance Officer, Samuel Lim, Agrees to Pay $1.5 Million for Willfully Evading U.S. Law, and Aiding and Abetting the Il

How Web3 Redefined Voting and Winners for Miss IMX 2023

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The Fusion of Technology and Glamour The recent Miss IMX Web3 Voting Campaign, held from 14-17 December 2023, marked a significant technological leap in the automotive industry. This groundbreaking collaboration between International Motor Show (HK) Management Limited (IMXpo) and iSHANG Technology Limited showcased the latest in Web3 technology, revolutionising traditional voting systems. 2023 Hong Kong IMXpo Unveils 'Miss IMX' Winners and iSHANG Web3 Voting Campaign Sets New Voting Records (Image Source: PR Newswire) Web3 Revolutionises Voting iSHANG, a Web3 solutions specialist, introduced their pioneering "Web3-as-a-Service" (W3aaS) platform, providing an end-to-end Web3 voting system for the Miss IMX contest. Powered by Polygon blockchain with IPFS database, this system ensured transparency, security, and accuracy in the voting process, setting new standards for fairness in contests. Transparent, Real-Time Voting Experience The winners, including Miss IMX and W

Innovation Push: Bitcoin's New Age of JPEGs

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A Layer-2 Leap Forward Adam Back, the chief of Blockstream, recently highlighted the inevitability of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on Bitcoin. He argues against restricting these digital assets, commonly in JPEG format, on the platform. On December 17, Back emphasized that efforts to halt their integration are not only futile but could lead to less optimal solutions. Rethinking Bitcoin's Transaction Limits Bitcoin, despite being a pioneer and a leader in the cryptocurrency world, faces challenges with its transaction capacity. Its ability to handle only seven transactions per second has been unchanged for fifteen years. This limitation becomes apparent under heavy network loads. The Role of JPEGs in Catalyzing Change Back proposes that the addition of JPEGs and similar digital assets on Bitcoin might actually be a catalyst for growth and innovation. He suggests that this could lead to wider adoption of secondary solutions like the Lightning Network, which is currently under develop

Mysten Labs' Winter Quest Strategy, Prizes, and More

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Mysten Labs has recently launched Winter Quest on the X platform, introducing an opportunity for users to receive up to 1,000,000 gifts valued at 500,000 SUI. The eligible activities for earning these rewards involve interaction with DeepBook, Hyperspace, SuiMint, and SuiFrens on the blockchain. Winter Quest The rewards, referred to as "presents" by Mysten Labs, come with a daily reset cycle. Each present holds a random amount of SUI. Progress and earning quotas reset every 24 hours at UTC 00:00, with the actual distribution of presents occurring at UTC 01:00. SEE: Mysten Labs' Winter Quest Scoring Logic While the Winter Quest is open to everyone, SuiFrens holders are granted a special privilege—a 15% multiplier on top of the standard reward structure, providing them with an enhanced opportunity to accumulate presents. Participants also have the option to trade presents on Hyperspace, offering a unique avenue for engagement within the Sui community and potentially d

Exciting Launch: Ordinals Creator Set to Debut Runes Mainnet in April

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April Launch: Runes Mainnet In a remarkable development within the cryptocurrency sphere, the founder of Ordinals, Casey, is poised to unveil the Runes mainnet. This significant event is slated to occur at Bitcoin block 840000, which, according to projections, aligns with April of the forthcoming year. The source of this compelling news is a release by the developer known as @raphjaph, who is active on the X platform. 👀 https://t.co/qtXqyepFrW pic.twitter.com/iy6kzzSVjK — raph (@raphjaph) December 16, 2023 The anticipation surrounding this launch cannot be overstated. Ordinals, under Casey's innovative leadership, has already marked a significant footprint in the digital currency landscape. The introduction of Runes on the mainnet is set to further elevate the platform's standing and influence. Casey's decision to advance with the Runes mainnet launch is a testament to the robustness and readiness of the platform. This move also signals a confident step forward in the re

Wall Street's New Frontier: XRP Spot ETF

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A Potential Market Leader Yassin Mobarak, founder of Dizercapital, has identified a notable opportunity on Wall Street: the possibility of an XRP Spot ETF. He recently shared his insights on Twitter, shedding light on the untapped prospects in the XRP market. Mobarak's observations come as institutional investors increasingly turn their focus to cryptocurrencies. If I were a Wall Street institutional fund and saw that the first mover advantage for #BTC and #ETH Spot ETF approval is gone, I would want to start thinking boldly and seriously consider filing an application for an #XRP Spot ETF. Why? 1. There's a significant pent-up demand… — Yassin Mobarak 🪝 (@Dizer_YM) December 17, 2023 Cryptocurrency's Rising Institutional Appeal Mobarak draws attention to a growing demand for regulated cryptocurrency investments among institutional players. He cites a significant rise in XRP's value following a false rumour about BlackRock's engagement in an XRP spot ETF. This

Bonk Challenges Shiba Inu in Crypto Race

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Solana's BONK Gains Momentum Solana's new memecoin, Bonk (BONK), is garnering attention in the cryptocurrency world. Its significant rise of 2,247% in just two months precedes its listing on major crypto exchanges like Coinbase and Binance. Arthur Hayes, co-founder of the crypto exchange BITMEX, voices his support for BONK, stating, “Let’s do the damn thang. $BONK > $SHIB.” Let’s do the damn thang. $BONK > $SHIB 🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡 pic.twitter.com/ZQB1WecBEl — Arthur Hayes (@CryptoHayes) December 17, 2023 Surprising Twist in Bonk's Market Cap Journey Bonk's journey aligns with Solana's 471% annual increase. Its popularity first spiked among Solana community members due to free $BONK airdrops. Further excitement was generated by the announcement of $BONK airdrops for purchasers of Solana’s SAGA Web3 smartphones. These phones experienced a sell-out in the US, with bids on eBay reaching tenfold the original price, largely driven by the desire for the 30 million BON

ETF Ad War Begins With the "Most Interesting Man in the World"

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Bitwise's Cryptic Ad Crypto index fund manager Bitwise has surprisingly aired an advertisement for its potential Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF), despite the non-existence of the financial product in the market. A word to the wise, from a man of few words. #bitcoinisinteresting https://t.co/wantGiAIqJ pic.twitter.com/x5MPbElEev — Bitwise (@BitwiseInvest) December 18, 2023 The Enigmatic Ad The 15-second clip features actor Jonathan Goldsmith, known for his iconic 'Most Interesting Man in the World' meme , engaging in a scene at an upscale restaurant alongside a sophisticated young couple. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U18VkI0uDxE The Cryptic Hint As the camera zooms in on the trio, Goldsmith intriguingly mentions Bitcoin, followed by on-screen text stating, "Bitwise. ETFs backed by crypto specialists." Expert Insight Bloomberg Intelligence ETF expert Eric Balchunas commented on the ad which was posted on X.com, hinting at the brewing Bitcoin ETF marketing wa

Crypto Jackpot: Trader's Daring $226K Gamble on Solana Memecoin Skyrockets to $1.69M in Just 5 Days!

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Solana's Dog-Themed Memecoin Craze The excitement around Solana's memecoin frenzy intensifies as a trader turns a modest investment of $226,000 into an astonishing $1.6 million. Thanks to the token $WIF , this trader turned $226K into $1.69M in 5 days. This trader bought 19.86M $WIF between Dec 13 and 15 at an average price of $0.01137. The 19.86M $WIF is now worth $1.69M, making ~$1.47M in 5 days. https://t.co/7QxZwvbzBA pic.twitter.com/xsBBOivbhW — Lookonchain (@lookonchain) December 18, 2023 This extraordinary feat was accomplished by speculating on a token adorned with a beanie-wearing dog as its mascot. Between 13 December and 15 December, the trader seized the opportunity to invest in over 19 million Dogwifhat (WIF) tokens, a recently launched dog-themed memecoin within the Solana network. HOW ONE TRADER MADE $1.5 MILLION ON NEW SOLANA MEMECOIN $WIF - The Solana-based $BONK memecoin has stolen headlines in both the $SOL ecosystem and the wider #crypto landscap

Ubisoft's The Warlords of Champions Tactics NFT Collection Mints Out, Surpasses $2 Million in Sales

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"The Warlords of Champions Tactics," Ubisoft's NFT collection tied to the impending PC-based PVP tactical game Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicles has been minted out. The collection has surpassed $2 million in sales within hours of its public free mint. Prologue completed. Stay tuned for reveal... pic.twitter.com/iP08QG7poH — Champions Tactics (@ChampionsVerse) December 18, 2023 Warlords and Champions Contrary to assumptions, The Warlords are not the focal characters in Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicles. The spotlight belongs to the Champions—distinctive magical figurines, each endowed with unique appearances and skill sets. Players must strategically assemble a squad of three Champions to navigate and counter opponents' actions in the dark world of Grimoria. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g0S4QY6b_U[/embed] Owning one or more Warlords offers exclusive early access to the Champions figurine drop, allowing players to mint up to five Champions at no

Astar Network Implements Second Phase of Tokenomics 2.0, Updates System for Fairer Rewards

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Astar Network is progressing into the second phase of what it calls Tokenomics 2.0 . Today, changes have been integrated to introduce a hybrid inflation model. Phase 2 of the Tokenomics 2.0 implementation is now underway on Astar! Today we merged in the necessary updates to implement our hybrid inflation model on Astar! 📷 This is a model transitioning us to dApp Staking v3 (coming very soon!) in order to create a mechanism that… pic.twitter.com/rg5yL2a06v — Astar Network (@AstarNetwork) December 19, 2023 This shift is intended to bring the network closer towards the upcoming DApp Staking v3, designed to equitably reward participants in the ecosystem while capping treasury incentives. Facing Inflation The primary issue being tackled is fixed inflation. Currently, Astar issues the same block rewards, whether the network is 5% or 40% utilised. This extends to dApp staking, where the reward pool stays constant regardless of active dApps. The new update aims to dynamically adjust infla

CFTC Triumphs in Legal Battle Against Binance

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Substantial Fine for Binance: A Court's Ruling The U.S. District Court has delivered a significant ruling against Binance, the prominent cryptocurrency exchange, and its Chief Executive Officer, Changpeng "CZ" Zhao. The court's recent judgment finds Zhao and Binance in breach of the Commodity Exchange Act and regulations set by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Consequently, Zhao faces a personal fine of $150 million. Severe Penalties for Regulatory Breaches The court's decision imposes severe financial repercussions on Binance. The exchange must relinquish $1.35 billion, deemed to be ill-gotten transaction fees. Additionally, it is ordered to pay a penalty of the same amount to the CFTC. These penalties reflect the severity of the violations identified. Mandatory Compliance and Injunctions The court order stipulates that Zhao and Binance must provide evidence of effective compliance controls. Also, permanent injunctions are in place to prevent fu