• Shiba Inu price is rising amid ETF speculation and whale accumulation signs.
• Shibarium activity has, however, plunged 82%, weakening token utility and burns.
• Key support at $0.0000095 could decide SHIB’s short-term direction.

Shiba Inu price has bounced back following a wave of renewed institutional attention sparked by crypto ETF speculation, though its long-term outlook remains mixed.

The SHIB token has climbed 3% today, outpacing the broader crypto market’s 2.03% gain, as traders reacted to T. Rowe Price’s proposed $1.6 trillion Active Crypto ETF filing — a move that officially lists Shiba Inu among potential holdings.

Despite the short-term rebound, the broader memecoin trend still shows signs of strain, with on-chain weakness, declining network activity, and lingering security concerns tempering optimism about a sustainable recovery.

Beneath the headlines, supply and liquidity metrics paint a more cautious picture.

Exchange reserves have also fallen sharply after an 84.55 trillion token decline from September 2024 to September 2025.

Such a supply shock often foreshadows short-term spikes as available sell pressure thins, but those same withdrawals raise volatility risk and can amplify swings if whales decide to redeploy balances into markets rather than hold.

Whales, Shibarium and the possibility of dropping another ‘zero’

Technical indicators tell a nuanced story.

SHIB found support near the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement and bounced from a key area around $0.0000095–$0.0000098, with the RSI sitting near 30 and the MACD histogram recently turning positive.

Short-term projections point to $0.00001078 and higher if buyers can clear immediate resistance at the 7-day and 30-day SMAs.

However, resistance remains stiff, and the 200-day and 30-day moving averages present obstacles that could stall rallies.

At the same time, on-chain fundamentals and development metrics limit conviction.

Shibarium activity cratered in October after a reported 82% decline in daily transactions, undercutting burn mechanics and utility-driven demand.

Token burn totals collapsed from tens of millions earlier in the week to just 2.57 million SHIB on October 31.

Combined with falling whale holdings and low open interest, that deterioration makes a sustained, ETF-fueled rally less certain and raises the possibility that SHIB might slide another decimal place if market conditions sour.

Compounding the uncertainty is a security incident: multiple signer keys associated with ShibaSwap appear compromised, and estimated losses approached $2.8 million in that event.

The project’s community response and any follow-up audits will be closely watched, because governance and custody issues can quickly sap institutional appetite for memecoins despite ETF windows.

Key Shiba Inu price levels to watch

Short-term traders should focus on whether SHIB can hold the $0.0000095 support and reclaim the $0.0000102–$0.0000109 zone on stronger volume.

On the other hand, longer-term traders should watch ETF progress, on-chain activity, and governance fixes to gauge whether Shiba Inu can move past its memecoin label and attract meaningful institutional flows.

A failure to cement technical gains or to restore Shibarium utility could mean SHIB slips toward another decimal decline, even as crypto ETFs keep the narrative alive.

The post Shiba Inu price forecast: SHIB could drop further amid the crypto ETF buzz appeared first on CoinJournal.

• Toncoin price surges after Binance-Telegram payment rollout and Chainlink CCIP extension.
• Chainlink CCIP links TON to 60+ blockchains for seamless DeFi access.
• Toncoin holds above $2.25 as projections point to a possible $3 breakout.

Toncoin price has surged, fueled by strong adoption news and strategic technological integrations, with Chainlink playing a central role in expanding TON’s reach across the blockchain ecosystem.

The cryptocurrency has seen a notable uptick, driven by both real-world utility developments and enhanced cross-chain capabilities.

Chainlink integration enhances TON’s cross-chain potential

A key driver behind TON’s recent performance is its adoption of Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) and Data Streams.

.@ton_blockchain, the L1 bringing Web3 to Telegram’s 900M+ users, is adopting Chainlink CCIP as the canonical cross-chain infrastructure for its native token TON, making it a Cross-Chain Token (CCT) to be transferable across leading blockchains.https://t.co/4hnmUOptun

TON is… pic.twitter.com/95DIHLpGu2

— Chainlink (@chainlink) October 31, 2025

This move positions TON as a Cross-Chain Token (CCT), allowing seamless transfers of Toncoin across more than 60 leading blockchain networks.

Beyond facilitating token mobility, Chainlink’s Data Streams provide low-latency, real-time market data, enabling developers to build advanced decentralised finance (DeFi) applications with institutional-grade reliability.

The integration addresses a longstanding challenge for TON: liquidity fragmentation.

By connecting TON to the broader multi-chain ecosystem, Chainlink helps create a composable, interoperable environment where assets, protocols, and liquidity can flow freely between chains.

This expansion also opens opportunities for developers to attract capital from Ethereum, Solana, and other ecosystems, elevating TON beyond a niche within the Telegram network into a serious contender in the multi-chain DeFi landscape.

The total value locked (TVL) growth on TON-based decentralised exchanges such as STON.fi and Dedust will serve as key indicators of how effectively the integration translates into tangible network activity and economic impact.

TON adoption gets a boost from Binance and Telegram

Another key driver of the current Toncoin surge is the launch of Binance-Telegram QR payments, a fee-free system currently active in Argentina.

This integration allows users to spend Toncoin directly via QR codes while merchants receive pesos instantly.

With Telegram boasting over 1 billion users globally, this adoption represents a significant step in bridging cryptocurrency with real-world transactions.

In countries facing high inflation, such as Argentina, this kind of utility makes TON particularly attractive as a payment alternative.

Market observers are keenly watching adoption metrics in Argentina, as well as potential expansion into other regions with similar economic dynamics, including Turkey and Nigeria.

This integration not only increases TON’s real-world utility but also strengthens its position as Telegram’s default blockchain, a factor likely to sustain demand over the medium term.

If usage of TON for payments grows consistently, it could translate into higher stability and further price appreciation, potentially pushing Toncoin beyond its current resistance levels.

Toncoin price reacts to technical and adoption catalysts

Toncoin price recently broke through the $2.25 resistance, reaching a high of $2.28, signalling strong technical momentum.

While short-term traders have responded to this breakout, trading volume has slightly decreased, dipping to $209 million, raising questions about the sustainability of the rally.

Despite this, the MACD histogram has turned positive, and the price remains above the 7-day moving average, suggesting a healthy short-term trend.

Market analysts have identified the next potential resistance at $2.36, with targets as high as $3 if trading volume picks up.

In the longer term, Toncoin could even reach $5.30, particularly if adoption of TON in real-world payment systems expands and the Telegram ecosystem continues to support innovative blockchain features.

With November approaching, historical data indicate that TON often posts positive monthly performance, adding further optimism to its trajectory.

The post Toncoin price rallies as Chainlink extends CCIP and data streams to TON appeared first on CoinJournal.

• Zcash price hits a new peak, flipping Monero as the top privacy coin.
• Celebrity endorsements and short squeezes fuel ZEC’s massive rally.
• Rising wedge pattern formation hints at a possible 30% correction ahead.

The Zcash price has defied the broader crypto market downturn, soaring to new heights and capturing global attention.

The ZEC price just surged to an eight-year high, marking one of the strongest rallies among major privacy coins this year.

With growing investor interest, celebrity endorsements, and accelerating adoption of privacy technologies, Zcash has reemerged as a powerful force in the cryptocurrency market.

Privacy demand ignites Zcash price rally

Zcash (ZEC) has skyrocketed 89% over the past two weeks, hitting a new all-time high (ATH) of $388 and flipping Monero (XMR) to become the most valuable privacy-focused cryptocurrency.

At a market capitalisation of around $6.2 billion, Zcash now stands as the leading altcoin in the privacy sector.

Notably, the surge in the ZEC price reflects a wave of renewed demand for privacy coins amid rising global concerns about data surveillance and financial transparency.

Over 4.5 million ZEC, roughly 28% of the total supply, are now held in shielded addresses using Zcash’s zk-SNARK privacy protocol.

This milestone marks the highest level of private holdings since 2021, signalling increased trust and usage of ZEC’s privacy technology.

Shielded coins tend to remain off exchanges longer, reducing liquid supply and adding upward pressure to the Zcash price.

Celebrity endorsements and short squeezes fuel the momentum

Besides the privacy coins demand, a significant percentage of the excitement surrounding the ZEC token can also be traced to high-profile endorsements.

Renowned investor Naval Ravikant described Zcash as “insurance against Bitcoin” in early October, triggering a massive 60% daily price jump.

Soon after, Helius co-founder Mert Mumtaz floated a $1,000 target, while BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes predicted that the ZEC price could rise to $10,000.

Each endorsement fueled further gains and drew new investors to the privacy coin sector.

The rally has also been amplified by an influx of short liquidations.

In the past two weeks alone, ZEC futures recorded approximately $65 million in liquidations — more than half from short positions.

This created a classic short squeeze, forcing bearish traders to close positions as prices climbed higher.

Retail investors followed suit, with Google search trends for “Zcash” spiking in late October as fear of missing out (FOMO) took hold.

The feedback loop between short liquidations and rising retail demand has propelled the ZEC token into one of the most dramatic recoveries of 2025.

Zcash price forecast

From a technical perspective, Zcash remains in a strong position but faces short-term risks.

The ZEC price trades well above its 7-day simple moving average of $332.01 and its 200-day exponential moving average near $96.68.

Indicators such as the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and MACD point to strong bullish momentum, though both are approaching overbought levels.

The current $370–$400 zone represents a critical resistance area, and a sustained breakout could set the stage for a move toward $450.

However, chart analysts have identified a rising wedge pattern — typically a precursor to corrections — that could lead to a 30% pullback toward the $260–$270 support range if momentum weakens.

The immediate support level to watch is $304.32, according to CoinLore’s analysis, which, if breached, could lead to a further decline to the next support level at $296.96, and further to the $260–$270 support range.

But despite these technical warning signs, market sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive.

Zcash’s +900% year-to-date rally demonstrates deep investor conviction and a structural shift in the market’s perception of privacy coins.

While whales have taken partial profits, on-chain data shows that the number of ZEC holders has surged by more than 60% in the past week, underscoring continued retail participation.

The post Zcash price hits new all-time high: how high can the ZEC price climb? appeared first on CoinJournal.

• Canary Capital has removed the “delaying amendment” in its XRP ETF filing, signalling a possible Nov. 13 launch.
• SEC and Nasdaq reviews could still affect the ETF’s final timeline.
• XRP-linked ETFs are already seeing strong inflows.

Canary Capital has amended its S-1 filing for a proposed spot Ripple (XRP) exchange-traded fund, removing a procedural clause that could clear the way for a November 13 launch.

The tweak is technical but meaningful: by eliminating the “delaying amendment,” the fund could become automatically effective under the 20-day statutory waiting period unless the SEC intervenes.

The update positions the XRP ETF to go live after 20 days

Canary’s latest submission to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) removes language that usually allows the agency to control the effective date of a registration.

In practical terms, the fund is now positioned to become effective automatically after twenty days under Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 — a path several recent altcoin ETFs have followed.

Journalist Eleanor Terrett flagged the amendment in a social media post, noting that the change now sets up a possible November 13 launch.

🚨SCOOP: @CanaryFunds has filed an updated S-1 for its $XRP spot ETF, removing the “delaying amendment” that stops a registration from going auto-effective and gives the @SECGov control over timing.

This sets Canary’s $XRP ETF up for a launch date of November 13, assuming the… pic.twitter.com/MKvEN23t5P

— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) October 30, 2025

The fund, however, still needs Nasdaq to clear a Form 8-A listing.

If Nasdaq greenlights the 8-A and the SEC staff does not raise new comments, the statutory clock would make November 13 a realistic target.

SEC could still request more amendments

Despite the procedural move, the timeline is not guaranteed.

The SEC could still issue comments that require Canary to amend its filing again, which would push the effective date back.

The broader reopening of government operations adds a further variable: staff availability and review priorities could either accelerate or delay finalisation.

SEC Commissioner Paul S. Atkins recently expressed support for issuers using the auto-effective route during periods when agency operations slow.

He praised the legal mechanism behind the 20-day waiting period, noting it as a long-standing option for issuers.

While Atkins did not comment directly on Canary’s filing, his remarks suggest a regulatory environment that — at least in principle — can accommodate automatic effectiveness when filings are in order.

XRP ETF market is already active

Even before this XRP ETF wins full approval, the market for XRP-linked ETF products has been busy.

Several funds already trade, including leveraged and volatility products from providers such as Teucrium, Volatility Shares, Rex-Osprey, ProShares, and Purpose.

These offerings have drawn meaningful inflows, highlighting investor appetite for XRP exposure through ETF wrappers.

Teucrium’s leveraged XRP product in particular has accumulated substantial assets, while Rex-Osprey’s recently launched fund crossed the low hundreds of millions in assets under management.

A wider slate of issuers, including some of the industry’s larger names, has pending applications, suggesting further competition if Canary’s product does reach market first.

The post Canary Capital updates its XRP ETF application, eyeing November 13 launch appeared first on CoinJournal.

• Revolut users can now swap USD for USDT or USDC with zero fees.
• The service supports six major blockchains, including Ethereum and Solana.
• Revolut’s crypto unit drove a 298% revenue surge in 2024.

Revolut has introduced fee-free, 1:1 USD-to-stablecoin conversions, eliminating traditional costs and spreads and allowing the company’s 65 million users to exchange US dollars for USDT or USDC across multiple blockchains at no extra cost.

Revolut removes friction between fiat and crypto

The new feature enables Revolut users to convert USD directly into Tether (USDT) or USD Coin (USDC) on a true one-to-one basis.

Customers can swap up to $578,000, or roughly €500,000, over a 30-day rolling period without paying any fees or spreads.

For every dollar deposited, users receive a matching stablecoin amount, effectively removing the pricing anxiety and conversion friction that typically come with moving between fiat and crypto.

The service supports transactions across six major blockchain networks, including Ethereum, Solana, and Tron, giving users flexible routing options.

The app automatically handles the technical steps, letting customers pick their destination chain without dealing with complex bridging or on-chain settlements.

Revolut’s Head of Product for Crypto, Leonid Bashlykov, described the rollout as a major leap toward making crypto access seamless.

Bashlykov said the company is covering the spread internally to guarantee exact 1:1 conversions, provided the stablecoins maintain their dollar peg.

A model built on simplicity and trust

Revolut’s in-app swap feature mirrors the company’s earlier approach to foreign exchange, which set a new standard for transparent, real-time conversions in digital banking.

Just as Revolut made zero-commission FX trading mainstream a decade ago, it now aims to make stablecoin swaps just as simple and accessible.

The fintech clarified that while the in-app conversion is completely free, standard network gas fees or withdrawal costs may still apply when tokens move off-platform.

Even so, the elimination of spreads and conversion fees marks a rare example of a financial institution fully absorbing costs to simplify crypto adoption.

For small and medium-sized businesses, particularly in regions facing currency instability, the implications are significant.

Venture capitalist Elbruz Yılmaz noted that Revolut’s clean one-to-one ramp “turns stablecoins from a speculative asset into working capital infrastructure,” helping businesses reduce foreign exchange losses and speed up payment cycles.

Revolut building on the strong performance of its crypto unit

The rollout builds on a strong year for Revolut’s wealth division, which includes crypto trading, commodities, and savings.

The segment posted a 298% jump in revenue in 2024, reaching £506 million, driven largely by growing demand for digital asset products.

The company’s full-year results showed a record £1.1 billion in profit and total revenue of £3.1 billion, underscoring its evolution from a digital bank into a global financial powerhouse.

Much of that momentum stems from Revolut X, the firm’s professional trading platform launched in 2024.

Offering over 100 tokens with zero maker fees and minimal taker fees, Revolut X positioned the fintech as a direct competitor to established crypto exchanges.

Its expansion to 30 European countries later that year strengthened the company’s foothold in the region.

With its new 1:1 stablecoin conversion, Revolut has not only removed a major barrier to digital asset adoption but has also redefined what a modern neobank can offer.

In doing so, it positions itself at the intersection of traditional banking and the decentralized financial future that is rapidly taking shape.

The post Revolut rolls out 1:1 USD-to-stablecoin swaps with zero fees or spreads appeared first on CoinJournal.

• GFH App to enable instant crypto-to-fiat payments via Binance Pay.
• The partnership boosts Bahrain’s role in GCC digital finance innovation.
• Central Bank of Bahrain backs the service with PSP and stablecoin rules.

Bahrain’s GFH Financial Group has become the first Islamic investment bank in the Kingdom to integrate cryptocurrency payments directly into its banking app, marking a major milestone in the nation’s digital finance journey.

The partnership with Binance Pay enables GFH clients to perform real-time crypto-to-fiat transactions, bringing blockchain technology closer to traditional banking in Bahrain.

A first for Bahrain’s banking sector

Through this collaboration, GFH customers can now use Binance Pay within the GFH app to fund investments instantly and securely.

The feature allows users to convert digital assets into local currency without leaving the bank’s ecosystem, streamlining what was once a complex process.

This innovation eliminates the need for third-party exchanges for simple conversions, bridging the gap between crypto and conventional finance.

The service is powered by Binance Pay’s infrastructure, ensuring fast and low-cost transactions.

Clients can top up fiat e-wallets, custody both fiat and cryptocurrencies, and complete investment subscriptions within seconds.

For GFH Financial Group, the partnership is a defining step in its digital transformation strategy, designed to enhance accessibility and efficiency for customers managing digital and traditional assets alike.

Regulatory backing strengthens the launch

The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has played a crucial role in supporting this advancement.

Earlier this year, it granted BPay Global B.S.C.(c) — a Binance Group company — a Payment Service Provider (PSP) license to operate in the Kingdom.

The license enables BPay Global to facilitate fiat and crypto custody, manage e-wallets, and process payments securely under the CBB’s supervision.

In parallel, the CBB introduced a stablecoin framework allowing both USD-backed and Bahraini dinar-pegged stablecoins to circulate in the local market.

This regulatory clarity provides a strong foundation for integrating crypto within the financial system, offering stability and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Financial experts say these policies strengthen Bahrain’s position as a crypto-friendly jurisdiction within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Bridging traditional banking with blockchain

Osama Nasr, Chief Digital Banking Officer at GFH Financial Group, described the initiative as a transformative step that bridges traditional banking with blockchain technology.

“By bridging traditional banking with blockchain technology, we are introducing a new era of convenience, security, and accessibility for our customers,” Nasr said.

Nasr emphasised that this integration aligns with GFH’s broader goal of delivering smarter and more connected financial experiences.

From Binance’s side, Tameem Al Moosawi, General Manager of Binance Bahrain, highlighted the partnership’s alignment with Bahrain’s economic vision. “

We are contributing to a more competitive and sustainable digital economy. This partnership not only enhances financial innovation but also fosters digital literacy and positions the Kingdom as a leader in the future of finance,” he noted.

Regional momentum in crypto integration

The GFH–Binance partnership reflects a growing trend across the GCC, where financial institutions are increasingly adopting blockchain-based solutions.

In the UAE, Liv Bank, a subsidiary of Emirates NBD, has teamed up with Aqua Now for fiat-crypto settlements, while RAKBANK has partnered with BitPanda to offer similar services.

Together, these developments illustrate how Gulf countries are moving toward harmonising digital assets with established banking systems.

In Bahrain, the combination of regulatory foresight, Islamic finance principles, and fintech innovation has created fertile ground for crypto adoption.

GFH Financial Group’s integration of Binance Pay not only enhances the local banking experience but also signals Bahrain’s readiness to compete as a regional hub for digital finance.

The post GFH Financial Group picks Binance Pay for crypto services in Bahrain appeared first on CoinJournal.

• Jiuzi commits up to $1B and 10,000 BTC to SOLV’s DeFi yield platform.
• The partnership bridges TradFi compliance with DeFi Bitcoin finance.
• JZXN shares have surged over 17% following the strategic announcement.

Jiuzi Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: JZXN) has unveiled a sweeping $1 billion Bitcoin finance initiative through a strategic partnership with SOLV Foundation, a decentralised finance (DeFi) platform managing more than $2.8 billion in total value locked.

The move positions Jiuzi as one of the few Nasdaq-listed firms actively bridging traditional finance (TradFi) with DeFi to create compliant, yield-generating Bitcoin products for institutional investors.

10,000 Bitcoin commitment to SOLV’s flagship SolvBTC.BNB vault

The partnership will see Jiuzi allocate up to $1 billion from its digital asset plan into Bitcoin staking and yield-focused blockchain products.

Central to the strategy is a commitment of up to 10,000 Bitcoin to SOLV’s flagship SolvBTC.BNB vault on the BNB Chain — one of the largest Bitcoin yield platforms in the ecosystem.

The assets will be safeguarded by regulated third-party custodians and verified through Chainlink’s proof-of-reserves auditing system, ensuring transparency and institutional-grade security.

This marks a pivotal moment for Jiuzi Holdings, which is best known for its new energy vehicle infrastructure business in China.

The company has been steadily diversifying into blockchain finance, and its partnership with SOLV Foundation signals a deepened commitment to positioning Bitcoin as a productive, yield-bearing asset rather than a passive store of value.

Building a compliant bridge between TradFi and DeFi

Jiuzi and SOLV have emphasised that the partnership will operate under strict compliance with US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations and Nasdaq listing standards.

The collaboration will establish a joint Steering Committee composed of senior representatives from both organisations.

This committee will develop and oversee Bitcoin-centric DeFi initiatives, including expanding the adoption of SolvBTC across additional blockchain networks such as Solana and Base.

By combining Jiuzi’s regulatory standing and institutional access with SOLV’s on-chain expertise, the partnership aims to create a secure, transparent, and scalable financial framework for Bitcoin-based products.

Both companies view the collaboration as a model for how regulated capital can participate safely in decentralised yield markets.

Optimising treasury strategy through blockchain

Beyond its yield products, Jiuzi will anchor its corporate treasury around Bitcoin as its primary digital asset.

The firm’s Bitcoin holdings, including those of its subsidiaries, will be deposited on SOLV’s platform and managed under the supervision of approved custodians.

This approach is designed to maximise capital efficiency while maintaining visibility and accountability through blockchain-based auditing tools.

Li Tao, Chief Executive Officer of Jiuzi Holdings, described the partnership as “a transformative step forward” that strengthens the company’s Bitcoin vault strategy and aligns it with one of the most advanced ecosystems for Bitcoin liquidity and staking.

SOLV Protocol co-founder Ryan Chow added that the partnership merges Jiuzi’s regulatory stature with SOLV’s expertise in managing large-scale Bitcoin assets, paving the way for secure institutional capital flow into DeFi.

Notably, the news of the partnership sparked a sharp rally in Jiuzi’s stock, with shares surging more than 22% in trading following the announcement.

Investors responded positively to the company’s expansion into digital asset finance, recognising the potential for Jiuzi to play a pivotal role in institutional Bitcoin adoption.

The post Jiuzi Holdings taps SOLV Foundation for its $1B Bitcoin investment plan appeared first on CoinJournal.

• Hackers drained over $5.5M from Garden Finance across chains.
• SEED token plunged 64% after the exploit triggered mass sell-offs.
• The DPRK-linked group “Dangerous Password” is suspected to be behind the hack.

Garden Finance has become the latest target of a major crypto heist, with hackers siphoning off at least $5.5 million across several blockchains.

The cross-chain bridge exploit has not only rattled investors but also reignited concerns about the security of decentralised finance (DeFi) infrastructure.

Bridge breach spreads across multiple chains

The attack on Garden Finance unfolded swiftly, draining millions in assets from multiple blockchains, including Arbitrum and Solana.

On-chain researcher ZachXBT was the first to identify the unauthorised withdrawals, noting that the losses could ultimately exceed $10 million once all affected chains are accounted for.

According to early reports, the attacker used the MetaMask router, a fast but costly swap tool, to immediately convert stolen tokens, which included wrapped ETH (wETH), wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC), Lombard-locked BTC, cbBTC, and SEED, Garden’s native token, to Ethereum (ETH).

🚨ALERT🚨Our system detected that @gardenfi has been hacked ~$6M across multiple chains.
Most of the stolen funds are in $WBTC, $USDC, $USDT and other digital assets.
However, most of the freezable assets are swapped to $ETH.
Team sent on-chain message to hacker offering 10%… pic.twitter.com/76YbG6aPK7

— 🚨 Cyvers Alerts 🚨 (@CyversAlerts) October 30, 2025

The move prevented freezing or recovery efforts, as the assets were instantly dispersed through decentralised exchanges.

Garden Finance later confirmed the breach in an on-chain message, stating that its systems had been compromised across multiple networks.

The team offered a 10% white hat bounty to the hacker in exchange for returning the funds and disclosing the vulnerability.

But despite the offer, the attacker has not yet responded.

ZachXBT links the hack to a DPRK-backed group

Investigations led by ZachXBT and other blockchain analysts suggest that the DPRK-affiliated hacker collective “Dangerous Password” could be behind the exploit.

This group has been tied to several recent cross-chain incidents targeting smaller protocols with liquid, fast-swappable assets.

Just days before the Garden breach, ZachXBT accused the protocol of enabling money laundering, claiming that up to 25% of its total fund transfers were connected to previously stolen assets from the Bybit and Swissborg hacks.

Another security researcher, Tayvano, alleged that North Korean hackers had been using Garden’s bridge extensively to move illicit funds.

These findings have cast a shadow over the platform’s recent success.

Earlier this month, Garden Finance proudly announced it had bridged over $2 billion in tokens, but the revelation that a quarter of its traffic may have originated from illicit sources has severely damaged its reputation.

Interestingly, today’s incident carries a note of irony. Garden Finance, once accused of facilitating laundering, has now fallen victim to the very type of attack it was criticised for enabling.

Observers have drawn parallels with THORChain, which was similarly accused of aiding North Korean hackers before being targeted itself.

ZachXBT highlighted this irony in his investigation, stating that the Garden team had profited “high six figures” in fees from illicit transfers but failed to assist victims in past cases.

The exploit, he argued, was a harsh reminder of the risks faced by protocols that neglect compliance and transparency.

With damages estimated between $5.5 million and $10.8 million, and the SEED token in free fall, Garden Finance faces a long road to recovery.

And whether the hacker accepts the 10% bounty or vanishes with the funds, the exploit highlights the urgent need for stronger bridge security, real-time monitoring, and better cooperation between developers and blockchain investigators.

SEED token collapses amid panic

The fallout was immediate. As the hacker dumped stolen SEED tokens into illiquid pools on Uniswap, the price crashed by 64%, plunging to $0.1928 and shrinking its market capitalisation to $2.5 million.

And although the token has slightly recovered to around $0.23, it remains down 57% from yesterday’s close price.

The thin liquidity made the sell-off particularly devastating, eroding investor confidence and intensifying scrutiny of the protocol’s risk controls.

The post Garden Finance exploit: over $5.5M stolen, 10% white hat bounty announced appeared first on CoinJournal.

• From October 31, 2025, Bybit will not be accepting new user sign-ups in Japan.
• Japan’s FSA plans to classify crypto assets as financial products.
• Japan is weighing allowing banks to hold and trade cryptocurrencies.

Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is suspending new user registrations in Japan starting October 31, 2025.

The move comes as the country’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) prepares to implement tighter regulations that could reclassify crypto assets as financial products.

The exchange said the suspension is part of its “proactive approach” to align with Japan’s evolving legal framework.

Bybit pauses onboarding of new Japanese users.

Beginning at 12 p.m. UTC on October 31, Bybit will halt the creation of new accounts for Japanese residents and nationals.

Existing users, however, will continue to have full access to all services for the time being.

In a statement, Bybit said it remains committed to operating “responsibly and in compliance with local laws and regulatory expectations.”

The company added that the pause will allow it to focus on reviewing local requirements and determining how to meet the new standards being drafted by the FSA.

This announcement comes amid growing scrutiny of global exchanges by Japanese regulators, who have been tightening oversight to protect investors and ensure transparency.

FSA prepares sweeping crypto reforms

Japan’s Financial Services Agency is preparing sweeping changes that could reshape how crypto is regulated in the country.

Japan’s crypto market has grown rapidly, with more than 12 million registered accounts as of early 2025.

Despite this growth, the FSA remains cautious about retail investor exposure.

About 80% of domestic accounts hold less than ¥100,000 ($670), raising concerns about the risks faced by small investors relying on limited information.

In August, the FSA established a new “Crypto Assets and Innovation Division” to monitor the fast-evolving industry while promoting responsible innovation.

The FSA now plans to amend the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA) in 2026, reclassifying cryptocurrencies from a “means of settlement” to “financial products.”

This shift would give regulators greater power to investigate and penalise insider trading and market manipulation in the crypto market.

A working group within the FSA is also drafting Japan’s first legal definition of insider trading in crypto, which could soon make it a punishable offence.

These developments mark a decisive step toward aligning Japan’s crypto oversight with that of its traditional securities markets.

At the same time, the FSA is considering allowing banks to hold cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin for investment purposes.

If approved, this would reverse a 2020 restriction and open the door for banks to participate in crypto trading and custody services under strict risk and capital requirements.

A challenging year for Bybit

Bybit’s suspension in Japan follows what has been one of the company’s most turbulent years.

In February 2025, the exchange suffered a $1.5 billion hack, one of the largest in the industry’s history, reportedly linked to North Korea’s Lazarus Group.

In the aftermath, Bybit intensified its compliance efforts, introducing monthly proof-of-reserve reports and expanding third-party audits to reassure users and regulators.

Independent auditor Hacken later confirmed that Bybit’s reserve ratio remained above 100% following the incident, easing customer concerns.

The exchange’s heightened transparency and regulatory cooperation mirror Japan’s broader expectations for crypto firms.

Bybit’s approach aligns with the FSA’s emphasis on accountability, financial soundness, and investor protection.

The post Bybit suspends new Japanese accounts ahead of stricter FSA rules appeared first on CoinJournal.

• Flutterwave has partnered with Polygon to enable fast, low-cost stablecoin payments.
• Pilot is scheduled to start before the end of 2025, expanding to consumers via the Send App in 2026.
• Verified merchants will benefit first, ensuring compliance and smooth adoption.

Flutterwave, one of Africa’s largest financial infrastructure providers, has announced a partnership with Polygon Labs to leverage blockchain technology for cross-border payments.

Fresh off the thrill of @money2020, we’re teaming up with @0xPolygon to make cross-border payments faster, cheaper & more accessible than ever!

With Polygon Proof of Stake (PoS) powering our new solution, businesses and individuals will soon be able to move money across borders… pic.twitter.com/7vmr88zy8e

— Flutterwave (@theflutterwave) October 30, 2025

Stablecoins at the heart of the partnership

Under the multi-year collaboration, Polygon will become Flutterwave’s default blockchain network, powering a new cross-border payments product designed around stablecoins.

These digital currencies, pegged to traditional fiat currencies like the US dollar, are expected to streamline international payments by reducing the inefficiencies that have long plagued Africa’s $2 trillion cross-border market.

For many businesses, settlement can take several days, and fees often exceed 8%, creating significant operational challenges.

Flutterwave plans to pilot the new system in 2025 with a select group of verified merchants, before rolling it out more broadly to enterprises and consumers through its Send App in 2026.

The initial rollout will prioritise global corporations such as Uber and Audiomack, which already rely on Flutterwave’s existing payment infrastructure, while subsequent phases aim to bring the benefits of blockchain-powered stablecoins to millions of everyday users.

The partnership also positions Africa alongside other regions where Polygon is already enabling major fintech innovations, including Europe and Asia.

With over a hundred fintech companies globally using Polygon to move money efficiently, Flutterwave’s adoption of the network demonstrates the continent’s growing embrace of blockchain technology for real-world commerce.

For Flutterwave, this initiative represents more than a technological upgrade; it aligns with the company’s broader mission to simplify international payments for African businesses.

CEO Olugbenga “GB” Agboola explained that by making cross-border transactions faster, cheaper, and more accessible, the collaboration sets a new standard for financial inclusion while providing a scalable solution for global commerce.

Faster, cheaper cross-border payments

By integrating Polygon’s high-performance blockchain, Flutterwave aims to cut both costs and settlement times dramatically.

Transaction fees on Polygon are typically fractions of a cent, and settlements can occur in near real-time.

Marc Boiron, CEO of Polygon Labs, highlighted the significance of this development, noting that stablecoins on Polygon can transform settlement periods from days into seconds and reduce fees from percentages into mere pennies.

This partnership not only reduces operational friction but also strengthens financial inclusion by making cross-border payments affordable and reliable.

For small merchants in Lagos, Nairobi, or Johannesburg, as well as individuals sending remittances, the technology promises to make previously cumbersome financial processes simpler and faster.

Regulatory compliance

Flutterwave is taking a cautious approach to regulatory compliance, initially limiting the stablecoin service to verified merchants who meet enhanced Know Your Customer (KYC) and Know Your Business (KYB) standards.

Vincent Yang, Flutterwave’s Senior Product Manager for Stablecoins and Cryptocurrency, emphasised that the company is working closely with regulators to ensure that the service launches only in markets with appropriate regulatory support.

The integration is designed to be seamless for merchants, requiring no technical changes to Flutterwave’s existing API.

This approach allows businesses to access the new payment options without disruption, embedding blockchain capabilities into familiar systems rather than replacing them entirely.

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• Thopen plans to use surplus solar energy for Bitcoin mining.
• The move could cut curtailment losses and boost grid stability.
• Brazil may emerge as a leader in sustainable crypto mining.

Brazilian solar energy firm Thopen is considering a bold new move to address one of the country’s most pressing renewable energy challenges of excess electricity generation.

The company plans to explore Bitcoin mining as a way to convert surplus solar energy into a profitable and sustainable business model.

Turning surplus energy into digital gold

Brazil’s rapid expansion of solar and wind power has brought both opportunities and challenges.

While the country now generates abundant clean energy, transmission bottlenecks and limited local demand have resulted in an oversupply in several regions.

This surplus often leads to energy curtailment, where producers are forced to reduce output, causing financial losses.

Thopen’s CEO, Gustavo Ribeiro, has acknowledged this growing concern and revealed that the company is studying ways to transform the problem into an advantage.

During an interview with BN Americas, Ribeiro explained that Thopen is considering setting up Bitcoin mining operations and data centers near its energy generation sites.

The goal, Ribeiro said, is to “convert energy into capital” — a strategy that could help absorb excess electricity, stabilize local supply, and ensure that renewable power is not wasted.

A breakthrough for Brazil’s renewable energy sector

The proposal comes at a time when Brazil’s renewable energy industry is facing limits on the amount of solar power it can feed into the grid.

By channeling surplus electricity into Bitcoin mining, Thopen aims to reduce curtailment losses and create a steady revenue stream.

Analysts note that this integration of renewable energy and digital mining could offer a flexible, scalable solution for the nation’s energy sector.

Similar models are emerging across the globe.

In the United Kingdom, Union Jack Oil has begun converting excess natural gas into electricity to power Bitcoin mining operations.

In Canada, AgriFORCE Growing Systems announced plans to use stranded gas to run mining rigs.

Thopen’s venture could position Brazil as the next country to merge clean energy with crypto mining on a large scale, showcasing an innovative way to monetize renewable resources.

Sustainable Bitcoin mining and grid stability

One of the most promising aspects of Thopen’s strategy is its potential to improve both environmental and economic outcomes.

Using surplus renewable power for Bitcoin mining eliminates the need for fossil fuel-based energy, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the process.

It also provides solar farms with a new income source, turning what would otherwise be wasted electricity into a productive asset.

Experts say this model can also enhance grid stability.

When power generation exceeds demand, mining operations can consume the surplus, balancing the system and preventing instability.

During low-output periods, operations can scale down, allowing electricity to flow back to the grid when it is needed most.

This flexibility makes Bitcoin mining an ideal companion to variable renewable sources like solar and wind.

The challenges and opportunities ahead

Despite its potential, Thopen’s plan is not without obstacles.

Brazil’s regulatory framework for cryptocurrency and energy integration remains under development.

Companies venturing into this space must navigate evolving policies, infrastructure demands, and the volatility of the crypto market.

However, industry observers believe that the benefits far outweigh the risks.

Ribeiro’s vision aligns with Brazil’s broader renewable energy goals — promoting efficiency, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.

If successful, Thopen’s approach could reshape how nations handle renewable energy surpluses, offering a model that is both profitable and environmentally sound.

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• The AfD party is urging Germany to treat Bitcoin as a strategic national asset.
• The AfD Bitcoin reserve motion seeks MiCA exemption and clear, favorable tax rules.
• AfD is pushing Bitcoin as “state-free money” to boost sovereignty.

Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has put forward a parliamentary motion urging the government to recognize Bitcoin as a strategic asset.

The short, forceful proposal argues Bitcoin deserves distinct treatment from other crypto-assets and calls for tax and regulatory relief to bolster innovation and national sovereignty.

The Bitcoin strategic reserve motion by AfD

The AfD motion urges lawmakers to treat Bitcoin differently from tokens and stablecoins covered by the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.

It argues Bitcoin’s decentralised design and fixed supply make it a unique form of digital value that should not be shoehorned into rules intended for centrally issued crypto instruments.

The party explicitly proposes that the government consider accumulating Bitcoin within national reserves as a hedge against inflation and currency volatility.

A central demand in the motion is tax certainty.

AfD lawmakers want to preserve the existing 12-month holding exemption for private capital gains and maintain Bitcoin’s exemption from VAT.

They also call for private mining and running Lightning Network nodes to be clearly classified as non-commercial activities, reducing administrative burdens for individual participants.

The motion stresses the right to self-custody and warns that legal uncertainty deters long-term private investment.

AfD frames the proposal as part of a broader defence of digital sovereignty.

The party opposes a European digital euro and portrays Bitcoin as “state-free money” that can protect liberties and reduce dependence on centrally issued currency instruments.

The motion arrives amid debate over Germany’s decision in mid-2024 to sell nearly 50,000 BTC seized from criminal proceedings — an action AfD and others now characterise as a policy mistake given subsequent price movements.

The proposal argues that heavy-handed national implementation of MiCA risks capital flight and diminishes Germany’s standing in blockchain innovation.

AfD lawmakers say excessive rules will push firms and talent to friendlier jurisdictions, eroding competitiveness in a field with rapidly evolving technology and commercial models.

AfD also highlights potential synergies between Bitcoin and energy policy.

The motion suggests that productive uses of excess renewable supply — including mining — could create a technological and economic fit between Germany’s energy transition and the Bitcoin network.

The party frames state accumulation of Bitcoin as a prudent diversification of reserve assets, drawing parallels to moves and proposals in other European countries that have discussed or adopted similar approaches.

Beyond urging a strategic statement from the federal government, the motion seeks concrete commitments: keep tax advantages intact, exempt certain private operations from commercial classification, enshrine self-custody rights, and open study of Bitcoin’s role in reserves and energy integration.

AfD wants the Bundestag to formally recognise Bitcoin’s distinct status and to restrain national rule-making that would extend MiCA beyond its intended scope.

The reaction from the public

Supporters in crypto circles welcomed the proposal as a sign that mainstream political debate is shifting away from dismissive tropes about digital currencies.

Critics, however, worry the plan could politicise reserve policy or clash with EU regulatory intent.

Observers note that Germany occupies an outsized spot in Europe’s economy, so any move to treat Bitcoin strategically would reverberate across markets and policy debates.

As Bundestag review AfD’s motions and the larger question of how national policy should sit alongside EU rules, whether the proposal gains traction depends on cross-party calculation about economic benefits, sovereign risk, and regulatory coherence.

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• The US Fed has cut rates by 25 bps, signaling a softer monetary stance.
• Bitcoin price is down 3% to $111,400 as traders digest the policy move.
• Fed to end the quantitative tightening on December 1.

The cryptocurrency market has seen renewed volatility after the US Federal Reserve announced a widely expected 25-basis-point interest rate cut.

Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and other altcoins have reacted with mild declines as traders digested the central bank’s decision and its implications for the broader economy and digital asset markets.

Fed delivers another cut amid economic uncertainty

The Federal Reserve reduced its benchmark federal funds rate by a quarter of a percentage point, bringing it down to a target range of 3.75%-4%.

This marks the second consecutive rate cut as policymakers move to support a cooling economy.

The decision, anticipated by nearly all market participants, came amid ongoing concerns over a weakening labor market, a persistent government shutdown, and the scarcity of fresh economic data.

At the post-meeting press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell noted that while some key federal data releases have been delayed by the government shutdown, the available public and private sector information suggests that the outlook for employment and inflation has changed little since the September meeting.

Powell also cautioned that another rate cut in December is “not a foregone conclusion.”

While projections released in September had indicated potential reductions in both October and December, Powell emphasized that the December move is not assured, signaling a more data-dependent approach by the central bank.

The Fed also announced it would end its quantitative tightening program on December 1, signaling a gradual shift toward a less restrictive policy stance.

However, not all members of the Federal Open Market Committee agree on how quickly to ease policy.

Some, like Stephen Miran, have argued for a steeper 50-basis-point reduction to accelerate growth, while others — including Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack and Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan — advocated caution.

This internal split underscores growing uncertainty over how the Fed will navigate the coming months.

Crypto markets unimpressed as Bitcoin price slips

In the hours following the Fed announcement, Bitcoin price slipped roughly 3% to trade near $111,400, while Ethereum hovered around $4,000, down a similar margin.

The broader crypto market cap stood at $3.86 trillion, after a modest 2.4% drop, with many top assets in the red.

Liquidations across derivatives platforms totaled approximately $560 million, reflecting a brief wave of volatility.

The muted reaction suggests the rate cut had been largely priced in, with traders anticipating the move weeks in advance.

Bitcoin’s weakness, in particular, follows a broader retreat from the all-time high it reached earlier this month.

Despite optimism surrounding lower rates and renewed liquidity, the market remains cautious.

Ethereum and other leading altcoins, including Solana (SOL), XRP, and Binance Coin (BNB), have also registered small daily losses.

Economic backdrop weighs on investor sentiment

Recent data from the Chicago Fed shows unemployment holding near 4.3%, its highest level in four years, while inflation continues to hover around 3%, above the central bank’s 2% target.

The Conference Board’s Expectations Index also remains below levels typically associated with economic optimism, fueling fears of a potential recession.

These signals paint a picture of an economy losing momentum.

With inflation still elevated and job growth softening, the Fed faces a delicate balancing act — supporting growth without reigniting price pressures.

Analysts suggest that if the economy slows further, additional rate cuts could follow before the end of the year.

Markets now await Powell’s next move

Traders will closely watch Powell’s comments for hints about how long the current easing cycle might continue.

Many expect the Fed to maintain a cautious tone while emphasizing flexibility, given the lack of up-to-date economic data due to the government shutdown.

Crypto analysts believe that a sustained move toward lower rates and an eventual halt to balance-sheet tightening could support digital assets in the medium term.

Easier financial conditions tend to encourage risk-taking, and historically, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have benefited when liquidity expands.

Still, near-term volatility is likely.

The Bitcoin price remains sensitive to macroeconomic shifts, and with uncertainty over both monetary policy and the global economic outlook, traders may see further swings before the market finds its next direction.

In the short term, crypto investors are bracing for Powell’s remarks and any signals of further easing.

While lower interest rates can provide relief for risk assets, the path forward remains uncertain — and for now, Bitcoin and altcoins appear content to wait for clearer signs from the Fed’s next move.

The post Bitcoin, altcoins slip as the Fed lowers interest rates by 25 basis points appeared first on CoinJournal.

• GIP-140 revamps GnosisDAO voting with on-chain and beacon data.
• GNO price dips amid profit-taking and technical resistance.
• Liquidity limits and stablecoin rules may influence short-term sentiment.

The Gnosis price has experienced modest volatility following the passing of the GnosisDAO GIP-140 proposal, a major governance update aimed at overhauling the platform’s voting mechanisms.

The GIP-140 initiative replaces the current subgraph-based GNO strategy with a suite of strategies that read blockchain state directly from both the execution and beacon layers.

The proposal’s approval marks a significant step toward enhancing the accuracy and reliability of Snapshot voting while adding support for StakeWise tokens and reducing dependency on external data providers.

GIP-140: revamping voting for accuracy and inclusion

GIP-140’s passage reflects a broad consensus among GnosisDAO participants, with 82 votes cast, overwhelmingly in favour of the measure.

The core objective is to eliminate the subgraph dependency, which has historically caused delays and inaccuracies in voting power calculations.

The new system attributes voting power to GNO balances across both the Gnosis Chain and Ethereum, locked GNO holdings, validator balances, and StakeWise’s sGNO and osGNO tokens.

By pulling data directly from on-chain and beacon chain sources, the proposal seeks to create a more robust and transparent voting environment that can better reflect actual stakeholder influence.

The technical implementation involves updating Snapshot’s configuration via a SafeSnap transaction, pointing to aggregator contracts deployed on both Gnosis Chain and Ethereum, as well as a new beacon-chain strategy for staked GNO.

Delegation mechanisms have also been updated to integrate these new sources, ensuring a seamless transition for DAO members accustomed to existing workflows.

The changes position GnosisDAO to handle complex governance requirements while reducing reliance on third-party indexers like The Graph, which previously introduced inconsistencies.

Gnosis price enters consolidation amid profit-taking

Surprisingly, following the approval of GIP-140, the Gnosis price has seen a slight pullback, falling 0.89% over the past 24 hours and underperforming the broader crypto market, which gained 0.06%.

The price movement aligns with profit-taking behaviour after GNO achieved a 7.98% weekly gain and an 8.3% rise during October.

Technical indicators suggest the market is testing resistance around the 30-day simple moving average of $137.93 and the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level at $138.47.

While the RSI remains neutral at 53.42, a bearish divergence in the MACD hints at potential short-term consolidation.

In addition, liquidity pressures stemming from CoinDCX’s June 2025 delisting continue to weigh on GNO trading activity.

Despite being months old, the delisting reduced retail access to the token, and the 24-hour turnover ratio of 1.08% remains relatively low compared with broader DeFi sector averages.

Regulatory uncertainties surrounding stablecoins, particularly the relaunch of USDS under the stricter US GENIUS Act, may also indirectly influence sentiment toward Gnosis Chain assets.

Nevertheless, milestones like Gnosis Pay’s $100 million transaction volume suggest that ecosystem adoption could counterbalance some of these headwinds.

Looking ahead

The combination of technical consolidation, lingering liquidity constraints, and regulatory considerations creates a cautious but watchful environment for Gnosis price movements.

Holding the $135–$137 zone could provide the stability needed for renewed momentum, particularly as GnosisDAO’s upgraded Snapshot strategies begin to reflect more accurate voting power across multiple token types.

In the coming weeks, the Gnosis price may respond to both market dynamics and the tangible impact of GIP-140’s execution, particularly if the changes enhance voting accuracy and encourage broader participation in the DAO.

For now, the community appears aligned, and the successful passage of GIP-140 represents a meaningful milestone that could shape GNO’s trajectory in both governance and market performance.

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• GRASS price drops as $80M tokens are unlocked.
• 181M tokens unlocked, raising dilution and sell-off fears.
• Technical analysis shows weak momentum but hints at a possible rebound.

The GRASS price is under heavy pressure as the market braces for a massive GRASS token unlock event.

With 181 million new tokens — worth more than $80 million — set to flood the market today at 1:30 PM UTC, investors are watching closely to see whether this move signals a deeper downturn or a short-lived shakeout before recovery.

Built on Solana, the Grass network powers a decentralised data infrastructure where users share idle bandwidth to support AI and web-scraping applications.

But despite its strong fundamentals, the latest unlock threatens to overshadow its long-term potential with short-term volatility.

GRASS price struggles under selling pressure

Over the past 24 hours, the GRASS price has fallen by 2.9% to trade near $0.41, underperforming the broader crypto market, which slipped only 0.56%.

The token is now down more than 50% in the past 30 days, reflecting rising investor anxiety ahead of the unlock.

Notably, the upcoming token release will increase the circulating supply by nearly 58%, from 243 million to roughly 424 million tokens.

This surge in available coins raises significant dilution concerns, particularly in a market already grappling with low liquidity.

Unfortunately, data shows that trading volume has dropped by more than 25% over the past week, suggesting thin demand to absorb the incoming supply.

Historically, token unlocks of this magnitude have triggered immediate price declines of 10–30% or more, as early investors and contributors take profits.

GRASS’s decline of nearly 50% over the last month fits that trend, reinforcing the perception that the market has been pricing in the unlock for weeks.

The token unlock has overshadowed Grass’s funding optimism

Earlier this month, Grass secured a $10 million funding round led by Polychain Capital and Tribe Capital to expand its decentralised AI data network.

The investment validated the project’s DePIN model and its 8.5 million active users, but market reaction was subdued.

Instead of fueling a rally, the news coincided with a 6% drop in GRASS’s value as investors focused on the looming unlock.

Part of the concern stems from the nature of the funding, which included token allocations that may add to near-term selling pressure.

As a result, even fundamentally positive developments are being viewed through a bearish lens, with traders preferring to stay on the sidelines until the post-unlock price action stabilises.

Technical outlook hints at fragile stability

Technically, GRASS remains in a pronounced downtrend.

The token trades below all major moving averages, with its 7-day SMA near $0.4266 and 30-day SMA at $0.6243.

Momentum indicators confirm weakness — RSI sits around 35, signalling oversold conditions, while MACD is attempting a modest bullish crossover.

Chart patterns point to a large descending triangle formation, with GRASS hovering close to its lower boundary.

The next major support lies at $0.3126, marking the 2024 low, while resistance is seen near $0.4694 and more prominently at $0.9 — the key point of control (POC) on the Volume Profile indicator.

A breakout above this zone could mark the beginning of a recovery phase, but until volume returns, upside potential remains limited.

Interestingly, Bitcoin’s strength over the weekend triggered a brief wave of optimism, sending GRASS higher on a large green volume candle.

However, follow-through buying has been muted, suggesting that traders are still cautious ahead of the unlock.

What to expect after the GRASS token unlock?

The immediate aftermath of the GRASS token unlock will determine whether this event deepens the sell-off or serves as a reset for future growth.

If selling pressure spikes, GRASS could test new lows below $0.31.

However, if buyers absorb the new supply and RSI begins to recover, a short-term rebound toward resistance near $0.47 may follow.

While GRASS’ fundamentals, anchored in decentralised AI data infrastructure, remain solid, the market’s focus is squarely on supply dynamics and investor sentiment for now.

As the flood of tokens hits exchanges, GRASS will need a compelling proof of demand to convince traders that the worst is behind it.

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• Router Protocol completes migration with an airdrop on Ethereum.
• ROUTE price gains momentum as the Router App launch boosts interest.
• Analysts see breakout potential but warn of post-airdrop volatility.

Router Protocol is entering a decisive phase as two major developments converge: the token migration completes with an airdrop for unmigrated balances, and the Router App — powered by the project’s Open Graph Architecture — has gone live.

These events could reshape liquidity, user flows, and market sentiment for the ROUTE token.

Airdrop seals migration

Router Protocol confirmed that unmigrated ROUTE tokens on the legacy Router Chain will be distributed to eligible Ethereum wallets via an airdrop on October 28, 2025.

The team published the eligible-wallet list and framed the distribution as the final step in consolidating the token on Ethereum.

ROUTE Migration Update

As part of moving all ROUTE tokens from Router Chain → Ethereum, the below addresses have unmigrated tokens and hence will receive their tokens via airdrop on Ethereum chain.

Airdrop Date: Monday, October 28
Eligible Wallet List: https://t.co/V1WyUqAgEF… https://t.co/3xN9SH6fSl

— Router Protocol (@routerprotocol) October 23, 2025

Market participants typically react to migration completions in two ways: some see it as a trust-building milestone that simplifies token management and encourages broader exchange support, while others treat airdrops as near-term sell pressure events when recipients liquidate allocations.

That tension — immediate selling versus longer-term confidence — is why observers expect heightened volatility around the airdrop date.

The migration also follows a larger strategic pivot by the project away from maintaining an independent L1 towards providing cross-chain infra via OGA.

The sunset of Router Chain and consolidation on Ethereum removes fragmentation and ends on-chain inflation tied to validator rewards, according to community commentary.

Router Protocol’s Router App goes live

On August 28, the team launched the Router App, a cross-chain swapping interface built on Open Graph Architecture.

The App aggregates bridges and DEX liquidity across EVM and non-EVM chains, promising smarter routing and the ability to split and reassemble trades in real time.

The announcement positions Router App as the consumer-facing layer of a broader routing standard.

Technically, the Router App’s value proposition is twofold: it offers immediate utility by improving swap efficiency across many chains, and it signals a productization of Router Protocol’s core infra, which may attract both retail users and protocol integrators.

Early adoption metrics, and whether users move meaningful TVL into the App, will matter for price and perception.

ROUTE price reaction: analysts eye a potential breakout

As Router Protocol completes its migration and launches the Router App, analysts and traders are closely watching the ROUTE price for confirmation of a possible breakout.

The token has already shown early signs of strength, maintaining steady gains in recent weeks as attention builds around these milestones.

At press time, ROUTE traded at $0.004541, up 11.7% in 24 hours after hitting a low of $0.003865.

Crypto analyst Chetan has been among the most vocal, noting that ROUTE remains up over 70% since his initial call and is now breaking above a key trend line that has held since November 2024.

Chetan suggests that if the breakout sustains, ROUTE could climb to a minimum target between $0.033 and $0.039, with a maximum upside around $0.10–$0.11.

Chetan frames the setup as a high-risk, high-reward scenario — roughly 50% downside risk versus 5x to 15x potential reward — but stresses the need for patience, saying he’s watching how the quarterly candle closes before adding more.

$ROUTE still up 70% since the buy…. and nearly 2x since its lows…

and now breaking out first time from its November 2024 trend-line….

if the breakout happens then its a possible sign for continuation to 0.033$ – 0.039$ minimum…

maximum it can go for 0.10$ – 0.11$…… https://t.co/7s3Rgy2YRk pic.twitter.com/Wsw9Ts46Hv

— Chetan (@chetangurjar642) September 28, 2025

At the same time, community member Jel has expressed renewed optimism, calling the potential “comeback of $ROUTE” “yuge”, reflecting growing bullish sentiment among long-term supporters.

Jel’s remarks echoed those of Ram from Router Protocol’s core team, who emphasised that the migration marks a fundamental reset for the ecosystem — validator rewards are ending, inflation is dropping to zero, and ROUTE is consolidating fully on Ethereum via Nitro.

Ram also noted that with consolidation complete, centralised exchanges are expected to fully support ROUTE on Ethereum, which could strengthen liquidity and accessibility.

The majority believe that completing the migration and delivering a live, functional cross-chain product could help the token rebuild credibility and attract more trading activity.

However, many warn that immediate volatility is likely after the airdrop as some recipients may take profits.

But if momentum continues alongside growing Router App adoption and Ethereum-based liquidity, the token could confirm its recovery narrative and extend its move higher.

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• Solana ETFs’ launch has boosted institutional interest and market optimism.
• Bulls target $230 as SOL holds strong above the key $200 support zone.
• Technical analysis shows rising momentum with resistance near $216–$227.

The long-awaited Solana ETFs have finally been approved, sparking renewed optimism across the crypto market.

The ETFs’ approval has reignited bullish momentum, with analysts believing that the Solana price could soon rally toward $230 and beyond.

Solana ETFs debut fuels optimism

Bitwise and Canary Capital have confirmed that their individual Solana ETFs officially begin trading on October 28 after weeks of regulatory uncertainty.

Bitwise’s product, launched under the ticker BSOL, serves as a gateway for institutional exposure to Solana, featuring staking powered by Helius Labs and a temporary management fee waiver.

Introducing $BSOL — the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF. Starts trading tomorrow.

– First U.S. ETP to have 100% direct exposure to spot SOL
– Maximizing Solana’s 7%+ average staking reward rate*
– Targeting 100% of assets staked
– Staking through Bitwise Onchain Solutions, powered by… pic.twitter.com/Vo8Ko0qOCn

— Bitwise (@BitwiseInvest) October 27, 2025

Grayscale has also moved swiftly, converting its Solana Trust (GSOL) into an ETF holding over $105 million worth of SOL.

Meanwhile, VanEck has also filed its sixth S-1/A amendment, with its Solana ETF status officially changed to “effective” and a 0.3% management fee established.

Adding to the growing momentum, Hong Kong’s first Solana ETF also began trading on Monday, marking Asia’s initial entry into the Solana ETF landscape.

Despite this wave of institutional activity, retail demand for Solana remains subdued.

Futures open interest sits near $9.75 billion — up slightly from the previous day but still below the $10 billion mark — indicating that traders are cautious amid market volatility.

Even so, analysts believe the ETF launches signal a critical turning point for Solana, reinforcing its legitimacy as an institutional-grade digital asset and providing the foundation for its steady hold above $200.

Bulls take charge as momentum builds

While retail demand for Solana remains unresponsive, the Solana price has been climbing steadily from $190 to $205, with short positions fading quickly.

Analysts note that bearish volume profiles are weakening while liquidity accumulates at higher price levels.

This shift has tilted momentum firmly in favour of buyers, with several technical indicators confirming the strength of the ongoing rally.

On the 4-hour chart, Solana trades above both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages, reinforcing the bullish setup.

The Ichimoku Cloud analysis shows a clear breakout, with price holding above key support between $197 and $201 — a signal that often precedes extended upward moves.

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) also hovers near 62, leaving room for additional gains before overbought conditions emerge.

Analysts now eye resistance zones between $204 and $208, followed by key hurdles at $216, $227, and $230.

Notably, a confirmed close above $205 could trigger a sustained rally toward these upper levels.

If momentum continues, higher targets around $237 and $253 come into view, aligning with Fibonacci retracement levels that mark previous swing highs.

Technical patterns hint at a repeat of 2023

Market observers have compared the current structure of Solana’s price chart to its 2023 breakout phase.

Analysts such as GalaxyBTC point to an ascending triangle pattern forming on the weekly chart, defined by a series of higher lows that indicate strong accumulation.

$SOL

Same pattern as October 2023.

This Q4 we should break-out from the consolidation into new all-time-highs. pic.twitter.com/pIURlH1YUu

— Galaxy (@galaxyBTC) October 25, 2025

The critical support at $188 remains intact, representing the network’s largest volume cluster where many long-term holders entered the market.

A successful breakout above $200 would confirm the pattern and potentially lead to a test of $215 and $225, echoing the bullish behaviour seen two years ago.

The broader macro picture also appears supportive.

Some traders suggest that if the US Federal Reserve signals an end to quantitative tightening, it could inject much-needed liquidity into the market — providing another tailwind for Solana’s next leg higher.

Long-term outlook stays bullish

Even as short-term traders monitor resistance near $230, long-term analysts remain optimistic about Solana’s broader trajectory.

The asset has maintained a pattern of higher lows since early 2023, and its market structure mirrors the accumulation phase that preceded its previous bull run.

Projections place potential mid- to long-term targets around $300, $390, and even $520 if momentum and institutional demand persist.

In the near term, maintaining support between $198 and $200 is crucial.

If buyers continue to defend this zone, the Solana price could strengthen further, confirming its leadership among major altcoins.

As the first wave of Solana ETFs begins trading, the market’s sentiment has clearly shifted — bears are losing ground, and bulls now have their eyes fixed firmly on the $230 milestone.

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• Canary Capital’s HBAR and LTC ETFs approved for launch on Nasdaq.
• The ETF approvals have sparked bullish momentum for Hedera and Litecoin prices.
• Institutional interest in Hedera has also grown significantly with new global partnerships.

The long-awaited approval of the Hedera ETF and Litecoin ETF has arrived, marking a pivotal moment for both assets.

With trading set to begin on the Nasdaq, investor enthusiasm has driven renewed interest in HBAR and LTC, sending prices higher as markets react to the historic development.

A breakthrough amid a US government shutdown

In a surprising turn of events, Canary Capital confirmed that its spot ETFs tracking Hedera and Litecoin will launch tomorrow on the Nasdaq.

The approval comes despite the ongoing US government shutdown, which many assumed would halt all Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) operations.

However, a recent procedural shift allowed issuers to bypass direct SEC intervention by letting their filings automatically go effective after 20 days.

According to Canary Capital CEO Steven McClurg, both ETFs have met all legal requirements and are ready to trade.

Bloomberg ETF analysts Eleanor Terrett and Eric Balchunas confirmed that the NYSE and Nasdaq have certified the required 8-A filings, the final step before shares can begin trading.

This development follows the model used for previous spot crypto ETFs, including those for Bitcoin and Ethereum, but with an even more dramatic twist, given the timing during a government shutdown.

🚨NEW: @CanaryFunds spot $HBAR and $LTC ETFs are now effective and will begin trading on the NASDAQ tomorrow, according to CEO @stevenmcclurg.

“Litecoin and Hedera are the next two token ETFs to go effective after Ethereum,” McClurg told me in a statement. “We look forward to… https://t.co/tPjsjLEE3R

— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) October 27, 2025

Hedera and Litecoin ETFs ignite market excitement

The approval of the Hedera and Litecoin ETFs has energised the crypto market, sparking fresh optimism among investors who view it as another major step toward mainstream adoption.

Hedera’s native token, HBAR, has rebounded strongly, climbing to around $0.21 at press time and reclaiming critical technical levels.

Notably, HBAR’s rise above its 20, 50, 100, and 200 exponential moving averages signals a decisive bullish shift.

At the same time, the Litecoin price is attempting to break through its stubborn $100 resistance level.

LTC price briefly spiked above the $100 mark following the ETF announcement, reflecting heightened investor interest, though it has yet to confirm a full breakout.

Technical indicators, including the Relative Strength Index (RSI) and Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD), suggest that a sustained move above $100 could mark the start of a broader bullish reversal for Litecoin.

Market data also shows a shift in trading behaviour.

Hedera’s open interest has declined from over $500 million earlier this year to roughly $163 million, indicating reduced speculative leverage.

This suggests that HBAR’s latest rally is being driven more by genuine spot demand than by leveraged futures trading — often a sign of healthier market growth.

Institutional momentum grows for Hedera

Beyond the ETF launch, Hedera’s recent institutional partnerships have strengthened its long-term outlook.

The network has been selected to participate in the Reserve Bank of Australia’s Project Acacia, exploring the use of distributed ledger technology (DLT) in tokenised financial markets.

It has also been chosen by the Bank of England for its DLT Challenge, further cementing Hedera’s position among credible blockchain platforms with real-world use cases.

Meanwhile, asset management giant T. Rowe Price has filed for an actively managed crypto ETF that may include both HBAR and LTC, signalling rising institutional confidence in these networks.

These developments are viewed as reinforcing the credibility of both assets at a time when regulated exposure through ETFs is gaining traction.

What traders should expect

If current momentum holds, Hedera price could test higher resistance zones near $0.25 and even $0.28 in the coming weeks, while Litecoin price may finally break through the $100 ceiling that has capped its rallies for months.

However, analysts maintain that Hedera (HBAR) must stay above $0.21, which has been established as the immediate support, for the bullish momentum to build.

At the same time, Litecoin (LTC) must stay above $99.67 for the $100 to come to effect.

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• Hyperliquid price dips 1.2% amid profit-taking and Aster DEX competition.
• Upcoming HYPE token unlocks worth $11.9B spark short-term supply concerns.
• Rising open interest and whale buying signal bullish momentum.

The Hyperliquid price has seen a brief pullback after a significant surge today, shedding 1.2% to trade around $46.57.

Despite this short-term dip, the HYPE token remains up 19.5% over the past week, highlighting continued investor interest and optimism about the project’s long-term prospects.

The retracement follows a strong rally and reflects a blend of profit-taking, technical rejection, and growing competition in the decentralised derivatives space.

Competition and profit-taking weigh on sentiment

After a robust run last week, Hyperliquid encountered selling pressure near the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement level at $49.36.

The failed breakout prompted traders to lock in gains, leading to a brief correction.

The MACD histogram is flipping negative on the 4-hour chart, signalling weakening short-term momentum, while the RSI eased from overbought territory at 69.89, suggesting that the market needed a cooldown after a 19% weekly surge.

Part of the sell-off also reflects the growing rivalry between Hyperliquid and the newly launched Binance-backed Aster DEX.

Since its debut on September 17, Aster has attracted massive trading volumes, processing $20.8 billion on its first day compared to Hyperliquid’s $9.7 billion.

Aster’s rapid adoption and $2 billion in total value locked within a week have shifted liquidity across the decentralised perpetuals landscape, briefly denting Hyperliquid’s dominance.

Still, Hyperliquid maintains a commanding presence in the market.

With a $12.74 billion market cap and a total value locked (TVL) of $4.85 billion, it remains one of the largest decentralised derivatives platforms.

However, traders are watching closely as the project faces near-term headwinds from both external competition and internal supply pressures.

HYPE token unlock fears

The most immediate challenge facing HYPE is a looming token unlock event beginning on November 29.

Around 237.8 million tokens — roughly 24% of the total supply — will begin to unlock over 24 months.

At the current price, this adds nearly $500 million per month in potential sell pressure, partially offset by $65 million in monthly buybacks from the project’s treasury.

This could lead to a monthly imbalance of around $410 million, which could lead to near-term volatility as the market adjusts to the increased supply.

Despite these concerns, the project’s $1 billion treasury filing, connected to the Sonnet Bio and Rorschach merger, could help counterbalance some of the dilution fears.

The treasury’s size and strategic reserves give the team room to manage liquidity and maintain market confidence through buybacks or ecosystem growth initiatives.

On-chain data shows bullish undercurrents

While short-term traders may focus on resistance levels, derivatives, and on-chain data tell a more optimistic story.

Futures open interest (OI) on HYPE has surged from $1.27 billion last Wednesday to $1.97 billion on Monday, the highest level since early October.

Rising open interest signals new capital entering the market, typically an indicator of growing bullish conviction.

Data from CryptoQuant also shows that whales — large investors — are increasing their positions, with buy orders dominating both spot and futures markets.

This accumulation trend suggests that institutional and high-net-worth participants expect further gains ahead.

Network data reinforces this bullish sentiment.

According to Artemis Terminal, Hyperliquid’s 24-hour chain fee revenue reached $2 million, surpassing edgeX and BNB Chain.

High network fees often correlate with elevated trading activity and liquidity, signalling robust user engagement even amid short-term market uncertainty.

Key technical levels to watch for the Hyperliquid price

Technically, HYPE has shown resilience after breaking above its descending trendline and the 50-day exponential moving average (EMA) at $43.54.

Over the weekend, it held that level as support before climbing back above $48.57.

If the token closes above the next resistance at $51.15, analysts expect the rally to extend toward the record high of $59.46, last seen on September 18.

However, a failure to hold above the $43.54 EMA could open the door for a deeper correction toward the $41.6 support zone.

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• 7M users have migrated to Pi mainnet, boosting market confidence.
• PI Network price is nearing a $0.30 breakout amid tight exchange supply and strong demand.
• ISO 20022 integration could link Pi to SWIFT and global banking systems.

The Pi Network price has staged a strong rebound, with the PI coin surging above key resistance levels amid renewed market optimism.

This rally comes on the heels of a major mainnet migration involving 2.7 million users and growing anticipation ahead of the network’s ISO 20022 financial integration scheduled for November 22, 2025.

Bulls regain control as Pi Network adoption surges

Pi Network’s market momentum has accelerated in recent days, with the token’s price climbing more than 25% in 24 hours and over 30% over the week.

The price currently hovers near the $0.28 mark, just shy of the psychological $0.30 breakout target eyed by bullish traders.

The price surge follows the completion of mass Know Your Customer (KYC) verification that enabled 2.69 million “Pioneers” to migrate their tokens to the mainnet.

🚨Welcome to the Mainnet! A massive 2.69 million Pioneers have migrated their Pi in the last week alone after a huge KYC verification wave. The ecosystem is expanding rapidly as we approach the Nov 22 ISO 20022 integration. The future of finance is being built now🚀#PiNetwork pic.twitter.com/zU1Myw7oGJ

— PiNetwork DEX⚡️阿龙 (@fen_leng) October 27, 2025

The migration marks one of the largest transitions in Pi’s history and signals growing confidence in the network’s long-term viability.

This migration has triggered a surge in market demand, particularly as millions of tokens were moved into circulation while exchange supplies tightened.

According to PiScan data, centralised exchanges (CEXs) recorded an inflow of more than 2.422 million PI tokens in the past 24 hours, but this was offset by strong accumulation activity.

In October alone, over eight million tokens exited exchanges, reducing available supply by roughly 2.4%.

This supply squeeze has been a key catalyst in Pi’s latest rally, easing sell pressure and fueling upward momentum.

Technical setup supports Pi Network price recovery

Technically, the Pi Network price is displaying a clear attempt to break out of a bullish pattern.

The token recently exceeded the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $0.2627, a level that previously acted as a strong resistance zone.

A sustained movement above $0.28 could be a confirmation of a breakout that could target $0.36 in the short term.

Momentum indicators, however, paint a mixed picture, with the Relative Strength Index (RSI) currently sitting above 58, suggesting the asset is approaching overbought territory.

At the same time, the Money Flow Index (MFI) hints at slowing inflows, creating the possibility of short-term consolidation before another push higher.

A failure to reclaim $0.28 could trigger a pullback toward $0.20, where strong support has held since mid-October.

Despite potential volatility, market sentiment remains upbeat.

The network’s strong fundamentals and reduced exchange supply continue to draw traders and long-term holders.

Pi’s recovery from its October low of $0.172 to recent highs around $0.29 underscores the renewed optimism surrounding the project.

ISO 20022 integration boosts real-world confidence

Beyond market charts, Pi Network’s ecosystem continues to mature rapidly.

The project’s upcoming ISO 20022 integration, aligned with the global financial messaging standard, is seen as a gateway to real-world adoption.

The move will allow Pi to connect more efficiently with banking systems, potentially enabling SWIFT compatibility for faster and cheaper cross-border transactions.

Built on the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP), Pi Network’s blockchain prioritises scalability, security, and energy efficiency.

This technical framework supports regulatory compliance while minimising environmental impact, positioning Pi alongside ISO 20022-compliant assets like XRP and XLM.

Community confidence has also strengthened as Pi’s automated KYC system verified over 3.36 million users, resolving one of the project’s major bottlenecks.

The growing mainnet base now stands at 2.69 million active users, reflecting sustained ecosystem expansion ahead of the November 22 milestone.

Outlook: Can Pi coin sustain its momentum?

The Pi Network price rebound reflects both technical recovery and growing ecosystem confidence.

While short-term traders eye the $0.30 resistance for signs of continuation, long-term observers point to Pi’s steady progress toward financial standardisation and global interoperability.

As the project approaches its ISO 20022 rollout, Pi Network is steadily bridging the gap between blockchain and traditional finance.

But whether the current bullish run holds or pauses for consolidation, the network’s growing user base, tighter token supply, and upcoming integrations suggest that the Pi Network price may be entering a defining phase in its evolution toward real-world adoption.

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• Madras High Court confirms crypto can be owned and held in trust.
• WazirX has been barred from redistributing investors’ unaffected XRP holdings.
• Ruling strengthens investor rights and Web3 governance in India.

In a landmark ruling that could reshape cryptocurrency in India, the Madras High Court has declared that cryptocurrencies qualify as property under Indian law.

The Court’s decision, delivered by Justice N. Anand Venkatesh, affirms that cryptocurrencies can be owned, held in trust, and protected as legal property — a major step in clarifying the legal status of digital assets in the country.

Cryptocurrency in India now recognised as property

The case arose from a petition by an investor whose 3,532.30 XRP coins were frozen after a cyberattack on WazirX, one of India’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges.

In July 2024, the platform suffered a $234 million hack involving Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens.

While the investor’s XRP holdings were not part of the stolen assets, WazirX sought to redistribute all users’ funds under its so-called “socialisation of losses” plan.

Justice Venkatesh firmly rejected the proposal, ruling that each investor’s digital holdings are individual property and cannot be diluted or redistributed to cover exchange losses.

He emphasised that cryptocurrencies, though intangible, possess all the essential attributes of property — they are identifiable, transferable, and exclusively controlled through private keys.

“It is not a tangible property nor is it a currency,” the judge observed. “However, it is a property, which is capable of being enjoyed and possessed in a beneficial form.”

This interpretation grants digital asset holders stronger legal standing, ensuring that their cryptocurrencies are recognised as assets protected under Indian law.

Jurisdiction and investor protection

The Court also settled questions over jurisdiction, dismissing WazirX’s argument that Singaporean arbitration rules applied because its parent company, Zettai Pte Ltd, is based in Singapore.

Justice Venkatesh cited the Supreme Court’s earlier decision in PASL Wind Solutions Pvt Ltd v. GE Power Conversion India Pvt Ltd (2021), noting that Indian courts have authority over assets located within India.

Because the investor’s transactions originated from Chennai and involved an Indian bank account, the Court confirmed that the case fell squarely under Indian jurisdiction.

The court further highlighted that Zanmai Labs Pvt Ltd, which operates WazirX in India, is registered with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) — unlike its foreign parent company or Binance.

This distinction reinforced that Indian exchanges operating domestically are subject to Indian oversight and accountability, particularly in protecting user assets and maintaining transparent custodial practices.

Strengthening Web3 governance

Justice Venkatesh’s decision went beyond individual relief to call for higher standards of corporate governance in the Web3 and crypto sectors.

He urged exchanges to maintain separate client funds, conduct independent audits, and uphold robust KYC and anti-money laundering controls.

These measures, the Court noted, are vital for building trust in the digital economy and protecting consumers from future mishandling of assets.

Legal experts hailed the judgment as a milestone in developing “crypto-jurisprudence” in India.

Vikram Subburaj, CEO of Indian exchange Giottus, described it as a foundational moment that signals to all market participants — exchanges, users, and regulators — that the digital asset space will be held to strong standards of governance and protection.

A foundation for India’s crypto future

The Court’s ruling not only protects the rights of individual investors but also strengthens the broader regulatory framework around digital assets.

By recognising cryptocurrency as property, the judgment fills a crucial legal gap in a country where tax enforcement on crypto remains strict, but investor protections have lagged.

As Justice Venkatesh wrote, courts now serve as the “central stage where the future of digital value is debated.”

Through this ruling, the Madras High Court has given India a clearer picture of ownership, responsibility, and trust in the age of decentralisation.

With cryptocurrency in India now firmly recognised as property under Indian law, the decision marks a turning point for the country’s digital asset ecosystem — affirming that in India, crypto holdings are not just speculative instruments but protected assets under the law.

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• Bitplanet bought 93 BTC in Korea’s first regulated corporate purchase.
• The firm plans daily Bitcoin buys to reach a 10,000 BTC treasury.
• Backed by major investors, Bitplanet leads Korea’s Bitcoin adoption.

Bitplanet has made history in South Korea’s financial landscape by becoming the nation’s first publicly traded company to purchase Bitcoin (BTC) through a regulated domestic exchange.

The KOSDAQ-listed technology firm recently acquired 92.67 BTC — worth approximately $10.9 million — marking a new chapter in the country’s corporate embrace of digital assets.

Korea’s first regulated corporate Bitcoin buy

The BTC acquisition positions Bitplanet as a pioneer in compliant Bitcoin adoption within Asia’s evolving financial ecosystem.

For the past month, @Bitplanet_KR has been quietly building the most reliable and compliant Bitcoin treasury infrastructure in Korea — culminating in becoming the first public company to purchase Bitcoin directly through a licensed domestic crypto exchange. As of October 26,… pic.twitter.com/hEmpvh9fUL

— Bitplanet Inc. (@Bitplanet_KR) October 26, 2025

It is the first time a listed company has acquired Bitcoin through a licensed exchange within the country’s regulated financial infrastructure.

Executed entirely under the supervision of South Korea’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), the transaction signals growing confidence among institutional investors that Bitcoin can serve as a legitimate, strategic treasury asset.

The Seoul-based company described the move as a deliberate, rules-based initiative rather than a speculative trade.

Co-CEO Paul Lee explained that the purchase marks the start of a disciplined, long-term accumulation plan designed to reduce timing risks while positioning Bitcoin as a strategic treasury reserve.

The transaction was executed fully in compliance with domestic financial laws, a milestone that could encourage other listed companies to follow suit.

Notably, the timing of Bitplanet’s move coincided with a strong rally in Bitcoin prices, which recently climbed above $115,000 amid optimism about US Federal Reserve rate cuts and increasing exchange-traded fund (ETF) inflows.

By choosing this moment to make its first acquisition, Bitplanet demonstrated not only market awareness but also confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term role as a corporate asset.

From its IT roots to a Bitcoin treasury company

Founded in 1997 as SGA Co., Ltd., Bitplanet has deep roots in IT, cybersecurity, and education technology services.

The company rebranded in September 2025 to reflect a broader shift toward blockchain and Bitcoin-focused ventures.

Its pivot follows the full $50 million acquisition of SGA earlier in the year and the completion of a $40 million fundraising round to support its new treasury strategy.

This strategic transformation underscores Bitplanet’s vision of becoming South Korea’s first institutional-grade Bitcoin treasury company.

The firm has developed a comprehensive infrastructure for compliant digital asset management, including regulated custody solutions, secure storage, and real-time audit systems that meet government and financial oversight standards.

Bitplanet’s management says it intends to accumulate Bitcoin daily through licensed domestic exchanges, aiming to build a reserve of up to 10,000 BTC over time.

This steady, methodical approach minimises exposure to market volatility and mirrors similar strategies employed by firms such as Japan’s Metaplanet, one of Bitplanet’s key backers.

Backed by global Bitcoin advocates

Bitplanet’s Bitcoin strategy is supported by a global network of digital asset investors.

The firm’s backers include Simon Gerovich of Metaplanet, AsiaStrategy, Sora Ventures, UTXO Management, KCGI, Kingsway Capital, and ParaFi Capital — groups known for advancing institutional Bitcoin adoption worldwide.

Their involvement signals strong confidence in Bitplanet’s compliance-focused model and its potential to establish a new standard for Bitcoin treasury management in Asia.

Industry observers believe the company’s regulated approach could pave the way for broader corporate participation in South Korea’s growing digital asset market.

The BTC purchase also aligns with the country’s forthcoming Digital Asset Basic Act, scheduled to take effect by 2027, which will formalise the rules for cryptocurrency custody and corporate holdings.

By moving early, Bitplanet positions itself to benefit from the regulatory clarity that this law is expected to bring.

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