New week, new crypto horoscope dedicated to the upcoming week from April 29th to May 5th.

This week will be characterized by two transits:

Venus enters Taurus on Monday 29/4;

Mars enters Aries on Tuesday 30/4.

For several months now we have been dedicating space to the crypto horoscope written by Stefania Stimolo, an expert in astrology and blockchain. It is a weekly column with the horoscope of each zodiac sign available every Sunday only on The Cryptonomist. 

In our slogan “We Tell the Future”, we wanted to delve deeper into the topic, jokingly speaking, with this entertainment column. 

The crypto horoscope

We call it crypto horoscope simply because industry terminology is used. 

Words like NFT, metaverse, and Over-The-Counter to describe actions and scenarios, but also trading terminology like bullish, bull run, bear market, or dump to identify the mood of each zodiac sign during the days of the week.

Obviously, the famous to-the-moon cannot be missing to indicate the mood of that sign! 

In general, you could experience a period of “hard-fork”, intended as an “inner split”, or pass your lightning torch to the next zodiac sign, meaning that the Sun is moving to the next sign. 

Or, simply, you need to reflect on some situations that are going through a “verify” phase, when the planet is in dissonance with the zodiac sign. Moreover, with each new change of guard of the Sun through the constellations of the zodiac, the roadmap of each sign will touch a new step. 

Obviously no investment advice is given, in fact, it is pure entertainment, just like any other horoscope. It must be said that there are many beginners in the sector who have understood the specific crypto terminology also thanks to the horoscope on The Cryptonomist. 

“Don’t Trust, Verify”

Astrology is not an exact science, but it aims to predict the future in its own way. So why not associate the typical phrase of blockchain “Don’t Trust, Verify” here as well. 

And in fact, what the author wants to propose is her interpretation of the planetary transits that occur during the week, describing the reaction of each zodiac sign, following the “logic” of traditional astrology. 

For those who are astrology lovers, they could stay updated just by following the weekly transits that are communicated and somehow influence us. Whether it’s a Mercury Retrograde or the days of the Full Moon. 

Others, on the other hand, may access the dedicated page, which is updated every Sunday, and read the horoscope of their zodiac sign, their rising sign, or why not, even the horoscope of friends and loved ones. 

And so, just for entertainment purposes, don’t waste time and click here to read your horoscope for this week!

In this article we provide all the essential information that you absolutely need to know in order to start investing in Bitcoin.

We initially present the cryptocurrency and explain what it is used for, and then move on to the exchange platforms where it is possible to buy and sell it.

It is important to remember that investing in Bitcoin, or in the crypto market in general, is a very risky activity and not everyone should consider exposing themselves financially in this sector, especially if their financial situation and lifestyle do not allow it.

Let’s see everything in detail below.

What is Bitcoin and what is it used for? 

Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency, which is a digital cryptographic currency that operates on blockchain, born from an invention by Satoshi Nakamoto, an anonymous user (or group of individuals) who in 2008 published the whitepaper of the project on an online forum.

Several experts in computer science and finance embraced Satoshi’s idea and began developing the Bitcoin protocol, officially launching it in January 2009.

From that moment on, the Bitcoin standard became increasingly popular worldwide, and the cryptocurrency gained more and more value as new buyers emerged.

Starting from a very low exchange rate in which 1309 BTC could be purchased for every dollar, today things have slightly changed: at the time of writing this article, each BTC has a value of 66,600 dollars.

Its price has grown so much since 2009 that it has been elected as the best performing asset in 8 of the last 11 years.

Source: Glassnode

Anyway, the speculative component of Bitcoin is not the most interesting part of the cryptocurrency. Many of you may be wondering what Bitcoin is really for and why there are so many people willing to spend tens of thousands of dollars to buy a virtual, intangible object whose value can fluctuate greatly from one moment to the next.

Bitcoin before being an investment option, represents something extremely rare: it is the first scarce digital asset that is spendable but cannot be duplicated ever existed in the history of humanity.

When we think of a file that lives in any online archive, we are talking about an asset that can be duplicated, sent multiple times (and not spent), whose value will always be very low precisely because it can be copied infinitely.

Bitcoin instead is a scarce asset: there will be a maximum of 21 million (currently there are 19.69 million) and it cannot be spent twice in different transactions.

Bitcoin represents an alternative currency to traditional fiat currencies, capable of storing value and being spent in P2P for goods and services, without the need for an intermediary such as a bank.

Bitcoin is the digital essence of freedom, expressed in all its splendor, in which financial independence takes on an exclusive connotation compared to the classic conceptions where free means being rich.

By using Bitcoin, regardless of whether we are rich or not, we are free to exchange value with any other person in the world who accepts our same standard, without any central entity needing to have any supervision over the transaction itself.

If you are approaching Bitcoin to get rich quickly, it’s better to forget about it.
If instead you are approaching Bitcoin to discover a revolutionary technology that could change the fate of global finance, and you want to protect your savings in the long term, you are in the right place.

How to start investing in Bitcoin? Choose the ideal platform

To start investing in Bitcoin, the first step is to choose the exchange where we will make the purchase of the cryptocurrency.

If you are a beginner, it is essential to choose a simple and easy-to-use platform, with a user-friendly interface and possibly registered in the Italian financial operators register (OAM) if you want to operate with a regulated broker.

Among the exchanges that fall into this category we find Bitget, Binance, Gemini, Coinbase, Trading212, Trade Republic and Young Platform.

Bitget represents the right compromise if you are approaching your first investments in Bitcoin and crypto, and you want to take advantage of an economical service with competitive transaction fees, various initiatives, and exclusive features at the same time.

To register, simply go to the official website through this link and create a new account with email and password. To better protect the Bitcoin funds we will be purchasing, it is recommended to activate 2FA verification for access (Google Authenticator).

At this point, you will need to recharge your account by depositing crypto from other platforms if you already own cryptocurrencies or by depositing euros. 

You can deposit via bank transfer or credit/debit card (0 commission). SEPA transfers take on average 2 working days while purchases with a card are instant.

With the amount in euros successfully deposited in the account to complete the purchase in Bitcoin, you will need to go to the “markets” section, select the “BTC/EUR” option in the search bar, select “trade“, then “buy“, set the order with the type “market” and the amount we want to exchange and finally click on “buy BTC“

Alternatively, you can simplify everything by going back to the deposits section and clicking on “fiat conversion“: here we can convert our euros to Bitcoin with a higher commission fee with a simple click.

Convert fiat function from the exchange. Source: Bitget.com

Once the purchase is finalized, you will have finally bought your first Bitcoins and you will have been “baptized” in this digital world.

Remember that if Bitcoin means freedom, as we said in the previous paragraph, it is not only used on centralized exchanges like the ones we mentioned earlier: in fact, there are also private digital wallets, technically defined as non-custodial, and markets where you can exchange your cryptocurrencies in a P2P manner.

The transition to this type of platforms requires a study of this fascinating but at the same time complex sector, and understanding the key concepts that underlie this digital revolution.

Non-custodial operability, in fact, while on one hand can guarantee pseudo-anonymity and complete autonomy in managing our cryptographic finances, on the other hand it is extremely dangerous and harmful to use without the necessary previous knowledge.

We do not speak excessively difficult to understand but still require a minimal study on the foundations of finance and on how cryptocurrencies and blockchain work.

All the risks of investing in cryptocurrencies

Before starting to invest in Bitcoin, it is essential to be aware of the risks you are facing.

Bitcoin is a very volatile currency, whose value changes very quickly even just a few days apart, so it is necessary to understand that if the money I am investing could be needed soon, maybe it is better to avoid exposing myself to crypto.

Never invest what you are not willing to lose and what you need to cover daily expenses (rent, bills, various installments, etc.): a famous “rule” in the world of finance more or less shared by any experienced investor.

Once I have established how much capital I can dedicate to investments in general (each financial situation is unique), I will need to understand what type of asset allocation to choose based on my risk exposure.

Without going into too much detail, the goal is to find an ideal breakdown between 4 macro-categories: bonds, liquidity (savings accounts, current accounts, cash), stocks, and crypto.

The first two identify a trend of investment with low risk and a focus on capital preservation, while the second two are decidedly riskier but offer potentially much higher returns.

Without prejudice to the fact that the examples reported here are not to be taken as financial advice, let’s see 3 different scenarios:

EXPOSURE TO HIGH RISK: 90% stocks, 10% crypto

EXPOSURE TO AVERAGE RISK: 50% stocks, 35% bonds, 10% cash, 5% crypto

LOW RISK EXPOSURE: 80% bonds, 10% liquidity, 10% stocks

The concept of asset allocation is further taken up within the crypto sector, where it is necessary to choose the most suitable type of portfolio for our goals and our exposure to risk (already medium-high if investing in this sector).

The challenge is to balance the amount of Bitcoin in the wallet along with Ethereum, and other altcoins (we do not consider stablecoins as liquidity to avoid complicating things too much).

We report as just done above, an example for illustrative purposes of 4 asset allocations in the crypto sector:

DEGEN: 50% eth, 50% altcoin

HIGH RISK: 50% btc, 25% eth, 25% altcoin

MEDIUM RISK: 70% btc, 20% eth, 10% altcoin.

LOW RISK: 80% btc, 17% eth, 3% altcoin. OR 100% BTC

Finally, we remind you that if you are thinking of investing in Bitcoin, in addition to the risks of market volatility and the potential impact of price fluctuations on our wealth, it is important to understand that you are operating in an unregulated market.

Bitcoin, unlike bonds and deposits that are guaranteed (up to 100k in the current account) by the State, is not guaranteed by any financial entity.

If for any reason you were to be hacked, no one will give us back our investment. Before taking a step into this dangerous but at the same time fascinating world, it is advisable to thoroughly study the functioning of this sector and understand how to avoid all the dangers involved.

On April 23rd Renzo, a well-known protocol for restaking the Ethereum ecosystem, announced with a post on X all the details related to the airdrop of its governance token REZ, and the listing on major exchanges.

Just 2 days later, however, after the project community complained loudly, Renzo decided to change some details regarding the distribution of the new token.

In particular, users complained that those who farmed REZ from the Binance launchpool would receive greater privileges compared to farmers who used the protocol.

The claim for the airdrop and the official launch are now scheduled for April 30, 2024.

All the details below.

1/ We are excited to announce that April 30th, 2024 will be the beginning of the decentralization of the Renzo Protocol.$REZ

Full details in the post below: pic.twitter.com/jQ7pFStsM4

— Renzo (@RenzoProtocol) April 23, 2024

Airdrop scheduled for Tuesday, April 30: everything you need to know

Renzo’s restaking protocol is about to officially launch the REZ token on April 30th on the largest cryptocurrency exchanges in the industry, along with a dedicated airdrop for early users of the project.

After achieving impressive results in just 4 months, including a TVL of 3.5 billion dollars with a market share of 33.5% in the liquid restaking sector, and a user base of 250,000, the protocol has decided to celebrate these milestones by introducing its own governance token.

Renzo also turns out to be the most distributed protocol in this particular niche, being present on 7 different chains, and the only one to have introduced the possibility of making deposits with stETH, wbETH and other LST in addition to native ETH.

As mentioned, the launch will be accompanied by a launchpool organized by Binance where users will be able to farm REZ by staking BNB and FDUSD.

Farm @RenzoProtocol $REZ on #Binance Launchpool.

Get involved before trading opens on April 30, 2024.

Don't miss out https://t.co/wv8B7j1NdT pic.twitter.com/uf324muwwt

— Binance (@binance) April 25, 2024

Focusing vertically on Renzo’s airdrop, we can see how the snapshot was taken on April 26th, revealing how only users who have accumulated at least 360 ezPoints (the platform’s airdrop points) are eligible to redeem the REZ token reward.

The claim will start on April 30th: eligible users will be able to request rewards within the website suclaim.renzoprotocol.com.

All REZ balances will be unlocked at TGE except for those of users with more than 500,000 ezPoints, who will have 50% unlocked at TGE and another 50% in linear vesting with a maturity of 3 months.

This initiative will see 700 million REZ tokens, which is 7% of the total supply, being released for the airdrop. However, starting from April 26th, a new season will begin with another 500 million tokens (5% of the total supply) up for grabs for the protocol restakers.

The circulating supply at launch will be 1,150,000,000, which is 11.5% of the total supply.

The official contract of REZ is the following: 0x3B50805453023a91a8bf641e279401a0b23FA6F9

Renzo’s foundation has thought about a precise allocation of the new token REZ, which will have to be distributed to different entities that have allowed the protocol to grow in recent months, as well as to the team itself.

Specifically, the tokenomics is as follows:

VC Investors: 31.56%: a large portion of tokens is allocated to investors who supported the initial development of the project. Investor tokens are subject to a total lock-up of 2 years: 1 year cliff followed by a 10% unlock and then 1 year of linear monthly vesting;

Community: 32%: capital dedicated to various community campaigns and new projects. This includes the 12% share for the two airdrop seasons;

Main collaborators: 20%: Renzo’s team and consultants who worked on the protocol to bring ezETH to the market. All main contributors are locked on a cliff for 1 year with a linear monthly maturity of 2 years. No token of the main collaborator is unlocked before the 1-year cliff;

Foundation 12.44%: tokens that will be used to finance further developments on ezETH and risk assessments on the platform;

Binance Launchpool: 2.5%: rewards for Binance stakers;

Liquidity: 1.5%: liquidity campaigns, exchange partnerships (CEX and DEX) and market makers.

Renzo makes some changes to the details for the REZ token airdrop after listening to the community

All the details of the launch of the REZ crypto just reported in the previous paragraph refer to the latest official announcement from Renzo’s team, which, after observing several complaints from the community, has decided to adjust its course.

Many have indeed pointed out how the timeline for the airdrop would have favored users of the Binance launchpool rather than those who had deposited on the platform. Initially, the date for eligible users to claim the airdrop was set two days after the listing on Binance.

This has infuriated the community, which immediately lashed out against this outrageous situation on X.

In addition to all this, there is also an error (we do not know if in good faith or bad faith) in the creation of the pie chart outlining the tokenomics of REZ in the first official announcement.

What is jarring are the blatantly incorrect proportions.

The Renzo Tokenomics pie chart how the team posted it vs how it looks with the correct proportions.

Look closely pic.twitter.com/x44PksFrOa

— Ajay Kashyap (@EverythingAjay) April 24, 2024

The reaction of Renzo’s team took only 2 days to arrive. After many opposed the situation by selling their ezETH token shares and causing a “depeg” with the equivalent value of ETH, it was decided to change some details.

First of all, the claim for airdrop participants has been moved to April 30, 1 hour before the claim for those who participated in the Binance launchpool, in order to offer a potentially higher price at which to sell.

Furthermore, the allocation of REZ tokens to the community has been modified, giving more weight to the community, in particular to the airdrop program which has increased from 10% to 12% overall.

We hear you! The Renzo team acknowledges feedback and the importance of our community who has made Renzo the leading restaking protocol.

Based on your feedback we’re updating:

1⃣Claim timeline
2⃣Tokenomics
3⃣Airdrop eligibility

Snapshot & Claim Timeline:
Snapshot date…

— Renzo (@RenzoProtocol) April 24, 2024

SPONSORED POST*

ETFSwap (ETFS) has seen a significant uptick in demand as Bitcoin (BTC), the largest cryptocurrency in the industry, starts another campaign toward a new all-time high. Thanks to the just-concluded fourth Bitcoin halving, the flagship asset is recovering nicely from the strong market corrections that saw it drop below $60,000.  

According to data from Coinmarketcap, it is currently trading above $66,000, and several assets in the crypto market are already beginning to follow suit. One such asset is ETFS, the native token of the ETFswap (ETFS) network. Investors are already betting millions of dollars on the token by joining the ETFswap (ETFS) ongoing presale event, which is already the biggest thing in crypto right now. 

Why Crypto Investors Are Bullish On ETFswap

ETFswap (ETFS) is an innovative crypto project that intends to bridge decentralized and traditional finance by tokenizing exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These ETFs consist of various assets spread across several industries, including the stock market, Bonds, and energy industry. The tokenized ETFs will allow crypto investors to invest in assets across multiple industries on a single interface, allowing them to diversify their portfolios. 

The platform will feature a web3 marketplace that will allow investors to trade tokenized ETFs and also help them monitor the progress of this asset on-chain before making investment decisions. Experienced traders can also benefit from the up to 10x leverage on trading on the platform to expand their earnings. Fractional ownership is also available for investors interested in amplifying their portfolio but do not wish to buy the whole thing. 

ETFswap (ETFS) will also enable users to access its platform without filling out Know Your Customer (KYC) forms that involve divulging personal information. Further, the platform has completed an audit of its smart contract with the help of the leading blockchain security firm Cyberscope. Cyberscope rigorously checked the ETFswap (ETFS) smart contract and found it clean of vulnerabilities that can weaken it against cyber attacks.

At the heart of the ETFswap (ETFS) ecosystem is ETFS, its native token, which will serve the purpose of utility and governance, allowing holders to be involved in making decisions that affect the platform. Also, holders can benefit from its staking functions, which will help them to make passive income through mouth-watering annual percentage yield (APY). 

ETFS Private Sale Success Attracts Whale Investors To Presale

ETFswap (ETFS) recently raised $750,000 in a successful private sale featuring two institutional investors and three angel investors. The platform intends to use the funds to accelerate the launch, development, and expansion of its ecosystem. 

To maintain its integrity, the platform has refrained from acquiring investments from venture capitalists (VCs), and this is because they would have to do the bidding of these investors instead of focusing on what will benefit the platform ecosystem and its users.

This bullishness from large industry players has spurred more crypto investors to participate promptly in its ongoing stage 1 presale, where it’s offering the token at $0.00854 per coin. Investors are confident that the start of Stage 2 at a price of $0.01831 per token will give them automatic profit even at its early presale stage. 

Also, experts have speculated that the ETFS has the potential to rise by 10,000% to $1, giving all early investors a 1,000x yield on their investments. Further, ETFswap(ETFS) aims to partner with other titans in the DeFi sector after the launch of its platform. 

For more information about the ETFS Presale:

Visit ETFSwap Presale

Join The ETFSwap Community

 *This article was paid for. Cryptonomist did not write the article or test the platform.

SPONSORED POST*

Bitcoin prices hit an all-time high of $73,454 last month. With Bitcoin halving this month, prices will hit all-time highs again in the future. Investors holding Bitcoin today will be more confident than before.

After this round of price carnival, the confidence of Bitcoin investors has indeed been greatly improved. The author believes that now is still an ideal cycle for investing in Bitcoin. For example, several of my friends have achieved excellent investment results of making $1,000 a day by investing in Simpleminers’ cloud mining contracts.

Simpleminers cloud mining is a shared mining business launched by the world’s top bitcoin miners. Investors do not need to purchase mining machines, rent sites, operate and maintain. Through this method of investing by simply purchasing a computing power contract, investors do not need to bear the costs of mining machines, sites, energy, maintenance, labor, etc., nor do they need to worry about whether they can mine Bitcoin.

Simpleminers executives told the author that the cloud mining business can ensure that Simpleminers has a steady stream of funds to deploy computing power to increase Bitcoin production. Investors can avoid the risk of asset fluctuations caused by directly holding Bitcoin, and can also avoid the unpredictability of output faced by their own investment in mining. This is a great win-win project for everyone

According to friends who invest in Simpleminers, you can earn at least 3 types of income by investing in Simpleminers’ computing power contract:

①Registration bonus: Download and register a Simpleminers account to get a US$10 registration bonus;

②Daily income: Purchase a computing power contract and obtain the daily income of the contract (the maximum daily income rate is 3%);

③ Invitation income: By inviting friends to invest in Simpleminers, you can get a reward of 3% of your friend’s investment. If your friend invites his friends to invest in Simpleminers, you can also receive a 1% bonus on their investment.

Investing in Simpleminers and making $1,000 a day is completely achievable.

Before publishing this article, I also experienced using Simpleminers. Investing in Simpleminers cloud mining contracts is very simple. All you need to do is complete three steps:

1: Create an account at Simpleminers. (This is super simple. You only need to click on the official website to register, fill in your email address, login account, login password, etc. in the form to complete the registration.) You can also get 10 US dollars in experience funds when you create an account, which is very considerate.

2: Select the contract that suits your purchase and purchase it. Simpleminers provides you with a variety of contracts with different “hash power” amounts. You can invest starting from $100, and the daily return rate is as high as 3%. You can choose any of them, or buy multiple different contracts or multiples of the same contract, depending on your needs.

3: Pay the required amount to the contract. After the payment is completed, no additional operations are required, and you can just sit back and wait for the benefits.

In addition, Simpleminers provides 24-hour online service from a team of experts and pays out profits daily. It also provides customers with mobile APP download services to facilitate users’ contract purchase and redemption operations, ensuring the security and visibility of user funds. Simpleminers does not charge any maintenance fees except for contract fees, making it a truly low-cost, high-yield cloud mining platform.

If you are also interested in making money from Simpleminers and want to know more about Simpleminers, you can now log on to their official website: simpleminers.com

Don’t miss out on this opportunity. Start earning today, and don’t forget to download the Google Play or Apple Store applications for additional rewards.

Company name: SimpleMiner

Company website: simpleminers.com

Company email: info@cryptomining-uk.com

Company address: 102 Middleton Road, London, United Kingdom

 *This article was paid for. Cryptonomist did not write the article or test the platform.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the lines between gaming, branding, and user interaction are increasingly blurring. Delving into what has become known as the era of game media—a term coined by Metahug years ago—UGCverse stands out as a groundbreaking platform. It not only observes but also actively shapes the future of digital engagement, representing a seismic shift in how brands interact with potential consumers, especially among younger demographics.

A New Era for Digital Interaction

The digital consumption habits of Generation Alpha, those born entirely in the 21st century, are markedly different from those of previous generations. This demographic is shifting away from traditional social media and is increasingly immersing themselves in the world of game media. The gaming industry, with a user base expected to exceed 800 million monthly active users, offers more than just escapism—it has become a vibrant hub of creativity and commerce.

Within this evolving context, UGCverse emerges as a transformative platform that bridges the virtual world of gaming with real-world brand interactions. Unlike traditional gaming or social media platforms, UGCverse integrates real-world rewards for gaming achievements, effectively linking virtual accomplishments with tangible benefits. This model not only enriches the gaming experience but also ties it directly to a broader ecosystem of goods and services, transforming gaming into a conduit for real-world interactions and rewards.

Empowering Creative Economies

At the heart of UGCverse’s success is its inclusive platform model, which allows any brand, regardless of size or industry, to connect with a UGC (User-Generated Content) creator who already commands a dedicated following. This setup is particularly advantageous for brands seeking to tap into established gamer communities without the need to build their own presence from scratch. UGC creators benefit from new revenue streams and partnership opportunities that enhance their content and expand their reach.

The Gamification of Everything

The gamification model adopted by UGCverse isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a strategic response to a growing trend across various sectors, from education to retail. Gamification increases engagement, encourages loyalty, and importantly, makes the interaction fun. In a world where consumers are bombarded with information and choices, gamification offers a way to make a brand’s message stand out by weaving it into the fabric of an immersive experience.

Bridging Virtual and Real Worlds

What’s particularly revolutionary about UGCverse is its structure as a bridge between the virtual worlds of gaming and real-world economic interactions. By rewarding players with real-world offers, UGCverse creates a seamless link between on-screen achievements and physical world rewards, thus extending the engagement loop beyond the digital sphere.

Leveraging a New Marketing Paradigm

In the age where consumer attention is fragmented across various platforms, UGCverse offers a unified solution that integrates gaming, marketing, and consumer engagement into a cohesive framework. This platform does not merely adapt to existing marketing strategies; it redefines them, offering a model where engagement is inherent and continuous, rather than episodic and disjointed.

Understanding Generation Alpha’s Preferences

Generation Alpha, more so than any previous generation, values interactive and immersive experiences over passive consumption. UGCverse’s platform is perfectly poised to meet these preferences by offering a deeply engaging environment that resonates with their interactive lifestyle. This demographic is not just looking for products to buy; they are seeking experiences that integrate seamlessly into their daily activities, making UGCverse’s approach highly effective.

The Future of Digital Engagement

As the landscape of digital engagement continues to evolve, platforms like UGCverse are pioneering the integration of gamification, user-generated content, and real-world rewards. This integration promises to redefine what it means to engage with a brand, moving beyond traditional advertising and into the realm of continuous, integrated experiences.

The Tripartite Benefit Structure

The true brilliance of UGCverse lies in its tripartite benefit structure, ensuring that gamers, UGC creators, and brands all reap substantial rewards from their engagement on the platform:

Gamers are rewarded for their engagement and loyalty with real-world offers, enhancing their gaming experience and providing additional motivation to interact with UGC.

UGC Creators gain access to a broader array of tools and partnership opportunities, allowing them to enhance their creative output, grow their followings, and increase their earnings.

Brands achieve unprecedented access to a captive and engaged audience, with the ability to forge deeper connections through integrated marketing efforts that go beyond traditional advertising.

The Future

Platforms like UGCverse are more than just the next step in digital evolution—they are a testament to the changing landscapes of media, culture, and commerce. As this game media ecosystem continues to grow, it promises to offer new ways for brands, creators, and consumers to interact, highlighting the interconnectedness of our digital and physical worlds in increasingly integrated and creative ways. This isn’t just a shift in how brands engage with consumers; it’s a glimpse into the future of digital interaction, where every action and achievement has the potential to be rewarding.

Shaping Consumer Behaviors with Game Media

The innovative model implemented by UGCverse also has the potential to significantly shape consumer behaviors. By making each interaction within the gaming environment potentially rewarding, UGCverse encourages a new level of engagement with digital content. Consumers are driven not just by the enjoyment of gameplay but also by the prospect of earning real-world rewards, which may include discounts, products, or exclusive experiences. This approach effectively transforms traditional consumer incentives, fostering a more dynamic interaction between brands and their audiences.

Enhancing Brand Visibility and Loyalty

Moreover, UGCverse enhances brand visibility and loyalty by embedding brands within the fabric of popular and engaging games. This visibility is not superficial but woven into the experiences that resonate deeply with users, particularly with Generation Alpha, who are more likely to advocate for and stay loyal to brands that they interact with in their daily digital lives. Brands that can effectively leverage the tools and opportunities provided by UGCverse are poised to build stronger, more enduring relationships with an up-and-coming generation of consumers.

Driving the Future of Marketing

Looking forward, UGCverse is not just maintaining the status quo but actively driving the future of marketing and brand interaction. As digital landscapes evolve and new technologies emerge, platforms like UGCverse will likely continue to innovate and adapt, constantly finding new ways to integrate real-world rewards with digital experiences. The potential for growth and adaptation in this space is vast, with UGCverse at the forefront, ready to explore new technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and more to enhance the gaming and brand engagement experience.

A New Standard in Digital Engagement

In conclusion, UGCverse.io is setting a new standard for digital engagement by seamlessly integrating game media, brand interaction, and user-generated content into a cohesive platform that benefits all parties involved. As this platform continues to grow and evolve, it promises not only to redefine the boundaries of digital marketing but also to offer a blueprint for how brands, big and small, can more effectively engage with the digital generation. By embracing the innovations brought forth by UGCverse, brands have the opportunity to step into the future of engagement, creating interactive and rewarding experiences that resonate with a tech-savvy, highly connected audience.

One of the fundamental concepts to understand in order to deepen the knowledge of the world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies is that of the so-called Proof-of-Stake (PoS).

In order to delve deeper into this topic, it is necessary first of all to know what is meant by blockchain.

The Proof-of-Stake Blockchain: the difference between centralized and decentralized

By itself, a blockchain would simply be, as the name suggests, a chain of blocks linked together. 

But the fact that a file is made up of a chain of blocks, where each new block is concatenated to the previous one, is not in itself a big deal. 

Actually, to tell the truth, since the blockchain is fundamentally used as a form of database to record, store, and read data, there are much more efficient and powerful ways to do it. 

The true and unique great advantage of using a blockchain to record data is that in this way the database can be public, shared, searchable and verifiable by anyone, and above all managed by a decentralized protocol. 

Therefore, blockchain really makes sense only if it is used as a ledger for a decentralized protocol, because for centralized protocols or infrastructures it does not turn out to be a good solution at all. 

But since the true blockchains are only those decentralized, we must consider how to allow anyone to record their transactions inside them without creating confusion and in a way that everyone always respects all the rules. 

Blockchain: The Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism

This issue revolves around the so-called consensus mechanism, which is an automated, open procedure that can be used by anyone without special permissions (permissionless) to validate transactions. 

The goal is to ensure that only correct and legitimate transactions are recorded on the blockchain, without having to rely on any particular individual to approve them. 

Indeed, in order to be truly decentralized, blockchains must not have special users with privileges or particular power: all users are and must be on the same identical level, in perfect P2P style. 

Consent mechanisms are precisely those procedures, inherent in decentralized protocols, that allow not only the validation of transactions, but also and above all their full verifiability by anyone. 

In the cryptocurrency sector, the most commonly used consensus mechanisms are Proof-of-Work (PoW) and Proof-of-Stake (PoS).

PoW was the first consensus mechanism ever used in the world on what was the first decentralized blockchain ever existed, namely that of Bitcoin.

Actually, even the second main cryptocurrency, Ethereum, was initially based on PoW, but in 2022 it switched to PoS.

The difference with Proof-of-Work (PoW)

PoW is based, as the term itself says, on a proof of work. 

Bitcoin transactions are validated by miners, whose job is to search and find the hash code that validates a block. They typically take about 10 minutes to find it, although this duration depends on the overall hashrate of the network, so it often turns out to be less than 10 minutes since there is plenty of hashrate on Bitcoin.

The problem with PoW is precisely the hashrate, because mining is effectively a competition where the winner is the one with the most hashrate, and therefore effectively rewards those who have more. However, higher hashrate also means higher energy consumption, which is why Bitcoin’s PoW consumes a lot of energy.

Another issue is the slowness with which transactions are approved, as it is necessary to wait for them to be included in a valid block and for this block to be mined correctly, and generally it takes at least 10 minutes for this to happen. 

The third issue is the fees, which however do not depend on PoW but on the fact that Bitcoin blocks are limited to 1 MB, thus being able to contain at most a little over 4,000 transactions. 

In addition to Bitcoin, other cryptocurrencies that use Proof-of-Work include Litecoin (LTC) and Dogecoin (DOGE), two cryptocurrencies that were born more than ten years ago, but there are also Bitcoin Cash (BCH) and Ethereum Classic (ETC), born much more recently. In fact, there are more than a hundred, including Kaspa (KAS) and Monero (XMR).

Usually these are first or second generation cryptocurrencies, but not third, with some exceptions. 

Ethereum, as already mentioned, initially used PoW, but in 2022 it switched to PoS. 

The main features of Proof-of-Stake

To solve some of the main issues of PoW, Proof-of-Stake was invented. 

With PoS there are no more miners, and there is no longer the need for hash research work.

There is no longer even a precise block-time, because instead of miners there are validator nodes that can validate blocks in extremely short times. 

There is not even the hashrate, because from a technical point of view validating a PoS transaction is very easy and fast. 

So PoS is faster and much less energy-intensive than PoW, but it doesn’t mean that the fees are low. In fact, Ethereum still has relatively high fees, although lower than those of Bitcoin at the moment, even though its layer-2 based on PoS now have very low fees. 

The way transactions are validated on Proof-of-Stake based blockchains is very simple: validator nodes lock up a portion of the network’s native cryptocurrency they own (for Ethereum it is 32 ETH) in staking, and this way they can validate blocks.

The validator node that successfully validates a block is then rewarded, expressed in the same native cryptocurrency of the network, but if it validates a block incorrectly or does not validate it, it is automatically punished with a penalty. 

So it is not convenient for validator nodes to not validate blocks, or validate them incorrectly, because they lose. It is instead convenient to validate as many as possible correctly because they gain from it. 

The differences

Blockchain based on PoW are certainly more solid and secure, but they are also much more energy-intensive and therefore much more expensive. 

Today probably only Bitcoin really makes sense to be based on PoW, while for all other blockchains PoS may be sufficient. 

Blockchain based on PoS are in fact faster, cheaper, less energy-intensive, but still quite solid and secure, if designed and managed well. Furthermore, they allow staking, encouraging holders of the native cryptocurrency to lock it up instead of using it. 

It is no coincidence that among the top ten cryptocurrencies, excluding tokens and stablecoins, there are only two based on PoW (BTC and DOGE), and of these two, one is just a memecoin that may not have a great future ahead of it (Dogecoin). 

There are instead 5 based on PoS (Ethereum, BNB, Toncoin, Cardano and Avalanche), and three others based on consensus mechanisms very similar to PoS (Solana, XRP and Tron) and that have nothing to do with PoW. 

The dominance of Proof-of-Stake, and similar consensus mechanisms, in the crypto space is now almost total, even though this does not concern the cryptocurrency that alone is worth more than half of the entire sector (Bitcoin). 

Two cat-themed memecoin airdrops for customers of the Solana “Chapter 2” phone temporarily covered the cost of the device on Thursday. 

Currently, the combined value of these airdrops for Chapter 2 is estimated to be around 385 dollars, while the price of the phone pre-orders is 450 dollars, awaiting its expected launch in 2025.

Let’s see below all the details. 

The value of the airdrop almost covers the price of the pre-order: the cost of the Solana phone reduced thanks to memecoins

As anticipated, the cat-themed airdrops for the new Solana phone “Chapter 2” could cover the cost of the device alone, with its provisional launch scheduled for 2025.

An airdrop of 5,199 Maneki tokens (MANEKI) launched on April 24, along with a previous airdrop of 37,600 Cat in a Dogs World tokens (MEW) on April 1, temporarily covered the cost of pre-ordering Chapter 2 last Thursday.

At a certain point, the combined value of these two airdrops reached 459 dollars, exceeding the pre-order price of the device, set at 450 dollars, according to Solana Floor.

MANEKI has grown by over 10% in the last 24 hours, while MEW has decreased by 3%, according to CoinGecko data. Currently, the value of the MANEKI airdrop is $127.38, while that of MEW is $214.78, according to the Two Loot dashboard.

Together with three other memecoin airdrops – WUFFI, IQ50, and CWIF – which are worth a total of 43.45 dollars, the total value of the airdrops for Chapter 2 now amounts to 385.62 dollars.

Solana Mobile presented Chapter 2 as the more affordable successor to its first cryptographic phone, the Saga, in January. The phone received 60,000 pre-orders in a month and is expected to be delivered in the first half of 2025.

Customers who pre-order the phone can connect their Solana wallet addresses, allowing them to receive airdrops before receiving the device.

Feline memecoins could cover the cost of the new Solana phone “Chapter 2”

As mentioned, several cat-themed memecoins could soon cover the cost of the “Chapter 2” phone, especially if their prices continue to rise. 

This phenomenon is similar to what happened with Bonk, a canine-themed token, which previously covered the cost of the original Solana Saga phone.

The first Saga phone was initially put on sale for $1,000, but due to poor sales, the price was reduced to $599. However, in December, the value of the Bonk memecoin, which is based on the Solana network, increased by over 800%. 

Since each phone included 30 million BONK tokens, their combined value soon exceeded the cost of the device.

This sudden increase in the value of memecoin has led to a rapid depletion of Saga phones stocks, with 20,000 units sold in a short time. Some orders have been canceled and refunded due to the shortage of stocks. 

Some reports suggest that some of these phones were later resold on eBay at prices reaching 5,000 dollars.

OpenDelta, a stablecoin linked to Bitcoin, recently raised $2.5 million in funding. This startup is among the first to develop tokenization technology designed for the Bitcoin era.

Let’s see below all the details. 

The success of OpenDelta reflects the interest in the Bitcoin stablecoin sector

As anticipated, the company focused on Bitcoin-backed stablecoins, OpenDelta, has raised $2.15 million in a pre-seed funding round led by 6th Man Ventures, as confirmed by CEO Konstantin Wünscher: 

“Our goal is to use Bitcoin to generate stable value in a fiat currency.”

OpenDelta is building the foundations of the new decentralized finance (DeFi) leveraging the latest trend of Bitcoin, Runes.

The creator of Runes, Casey Rodarmor, introduced a method to engrave fungible tokens on satoshis, the smallest unit of Bitcoin, during the Bitcoin halving on April 19th. 

This new approach has quickly gained popularity, becoming an important tool for Bitcoin transactions, according to a dashboard by Dune created by Crypto Koryo.

The main token of OpenDelta, USDO, will maintain its value anchored to the dollar thanks to Bitcoin (BTC) deposited as collateral by users. 

The token will only be available in May and initially will be accessible exclusively through a closed beta for members of the waiting lists. OpenDelta also intends to expand the use of Runes to other levels of Bitcoin.

The product will generate value for its holders through financing rates in derivative markets, maintaining its value in dollars. 

To mint USDO, users will need to deposit Bitcoin as collateral in a wallet managed by “institutional-level custodians,” as described in a press release.

OpenDelta is one of the first companies to build the new face of DeFi for Bitcoin in the era of Runes. Wünscher emphasizes that those passionate about Bitcoin may not be in tune with the complexities of Ethereum-based DeFi: 

“We have the opportunity to create new experiences on Bitcoin because those involved have not been influenced by anything other than Bitcoin.”

Luke Dashjr criticizes the Runes protocol

Luke Dashjr, one of the developers of Bitcoin core, criticized the Runes protocol, stating that it exploits a fundamental flaw in the design of the Bitcoin blockchain network.

In a post on April 26 on X (formerly Twitter), Dashjr compared ordinal subscriptions and the Runes protocol, explaining how they interact differently with the network. 

He emphasized that, while Ordinals exploit vulnerabilities in the blockchain, the Runes protocol operates within the design flaws of the network. 

He explained that Ordinals are a “9-vector attack” that exploits the vulnerabilities of Bitcoin Core, while Runes represent “only” a 5-vector attack that, however, follows the “rules”.

Ordinals are a form of digital asset similar to NFTs, engraved on satoshis, the smallest unit of Bitcoin. They have marked Bitcoin’s entry into the world of NFTs, generating interest in the crypto community. 

On the other hand, Runes are fungible tokens introduced on the day Bitcoin completed its fourth halving. Since then, they have caused congestion in the network and a surge in transaction fees.

Dashjr, a well-known critic of both types of assets, believes that they deviate from the fundamental principles of Bitcoin and contribute to blockchain spam. 

He proposed methods to filter Rune transactions, recommending to set datacarriersize=0 in the bitcoin.conf file for Bitcoin Knots or Bitcoin Core. However, it seems that miners are not following this advice. 

The decentralized mining pool Ocean Mining, where Dashjr is CTO, recently mined a post-halving block with over 75% of transactions coming from the Runes protocol, justifying the choice with the profitable revenue streams generated by Runes transactions.

At the end of last year, ARK purchased over 4 million BITO shares as a short-term investment, anticipating the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in the United States and planning to sell them once authorization is obtained. 

However, after a series of consistent sales in January, ARK sold its last BITO shares last week. Let’s see all the details below. 

ARK divests from BITO shares

As anticipated, on Thursday, ARK Invest, led by Cathie Wood, sold its last shares of the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO). 

The company has sold 237,983 BITO shares, obtaining 6.7 million dollars at Thursday’s closing price of 28.22 dollars each, through its Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW).

At the end of last year, ARK had purchased over 4 million shares as a short-term investment, anticipating the approval of spot ETFs on Bitcoin in the United States and planning to trade them once authorization was received.

After constant sales in January, ARK sold the remaining BITO shares last week.

Meanwhile, the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (ARKB) has become the largest holding of the fund, with 2,480,644 shares worth $160.6 million, calculated at Thursday’s closing price of $64.76. This represents 10.4% of the total value of the fund.

ARK Invest’s purchase of massive Tesla shares

Ark Invest by Cathie Wood made a significant acquisition of Tesla (TSLA) shares during a market downturn. 

On Monday, the company purchased 122,752 Tesla shares worth approximately $18.05 million, dividing the purchase among three of its main funds: ARKK, ARKQ, and ARKW. 

This operation underlines ARK Invest’s confidence in Tesla’s future growth and is part of its long-term investment strategy.

The news comes as Tesla faces a period of financial difficulties. The company reported a 9% drop in sales in the first quarter of 2024, the highest since 2012, partly due to ongoing price reductions. 

Furthermore, the net profit has decreased by 55%, from 2.51 billion dollars in 2023 to 1.13 billion dollars in 2024. Tesla has also forecasted a slowdown in the growth rate for 2024, which has raised further concerns among investors.

Despite these difficulties, Ark Invest continues to show confidence in Tesla, strengthening its position with a massive purchase of shares.

This can be seen as a positive signal for Tesla’s future, even though the market remains cautious due to recent fluctuations.

The increase in positions in Bitcoin and Ethereum before the halving

In anticipation of the Bitcoin (BTC) halving, ARK Invest had made a series of transactions that show its confidence in the future of the cryptocurrency.

Among the most significant moves, ARK added 139,152 units of its Bitcoin spot ETF, the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF, worth 8.96 million dollars. This follows a previous purchase of ETFs for 31.19 million dollars the day before.

ARK Invest has not limited itself to Bitcoin. It has also diversified its portfolio by purchasing 41,068 shares of the ProShares Ether Strategy ETF (EETH), worth approximately 2.78 million dollars. 

This acquisition adds to another purchase of 2.9 million dollars in EETH shares that took place on April 18th.

Analysts have considered these transactions significant, especially because they occurred just a few hours before the anticipated Bitcoin halving event.

Cathie Wood has confirmed her confidence in the long-term potential of Bitcoin, despite the volatility of the cryptocurrency market following the halving. 

In a recent interview, he spoke about his positive vision for transformative technologies, including artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and the cryptocurrency sector.

Furthermore, ARK Invest has expanded its global presence with the launch of its first three European UCITS ETFs, responding to the growing demand for its investment strategies. 

This expansion reflects ARK Invest’s vision of embracing new opportunities in global markets.

This article was paid for*

The Wormhole (W) token price is up 15% today, making it one of the top gainers among the top 100 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. In a generally boring market, a 15% gain is certainly noteworthy. We’ll explore the reasons behind this pump. 

Simultaneously, Dogeverse, a new multi-chain meme coin, has raised over $11 million in its crypto presale within a few weeks and recently added support for purchases on Base, Avalanche, Solana, Polygon, and BNB Chain, alongside Ethereum.

What’s Behind the Wormhole (W) Price Pump?

Last night, the official Wormhole team announced that the W token is now natively multi-chain using the Wormhole Native Token Transfers (NTT) framework. Native W is now available in SPL format on Solana and ERC20 format on Ethereum, Arbitrum, Optimism, and Base. 

This is decent news for W as it increases its availability on multiple networks, making it accessible to a broader range of traders.

Wormhole's W token is now natively multichain using the Wormhole Native Token Transfers (NTT) framework

Native W is now available in SPL format on @Solana and ERC20 format on @Ethereum, @arbitrum, @Optimism, and @buildonbase. pic.twitter.com/pwaJohYGXT

— Wormhole (@wormhole) April 25, 2024

What’s Behind the Wormhole (W) Price Pump?

On the W/USDT chart, we can see that over the past two weeks, this coin has been trading in a sideways channel between the $0.5 and $0.73 area. Despite today’s pump, W is still within this channel. 

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is currently at 38, indicating a neutral market sentiment, neither overbought nor oversold.

A Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) measures the relationship between two moving averages of an asset’s price.

The MACD line and MACD signal line are currently neck and neck, but the trend suggests that the MACD signal line might cross below the MACD line later today. 

This is known as a bearish crossover and can indicate a potential shift in momentum from bullish to bearish in the near future.

For W to gain strong upward momentum, it needs to break out of the sideways channel and surpass the $0.7-$0.73 area. Clearing this resistance level could potentially open the door for further upside, as it would signal a change in the prevailing trend from sideways to upward.

However, the current indicators, particularly the potential bearish crossover on the MACD, are not particularly promising for sustained upward momentum. 

If the MACD signal line does cross below the MACD line, it could suggest that the recent pump may be short-lived, and W could potentially retrace back towards the lower end of the sideways channel around $0.5.

Ultimately, the direction W takes from here will depend on its ability to break out of the current range and overcome key resistance levels. If it fails to do so and the bearish MACD crossover materializes, W could potentially consolidate further or even correct lower in the near term.

Dogeverse: A New Multi-chain Meme Coin

Dogeverse is a new meme coin currently in its crypto presale that launched a few weeks ago and has already raised over $11 million. Dogeverse ($DOGEVERSE) is a meme crypto project that aims to bring together different blockchain communities through a shared love for Dogecoin and the power of memes.

Dogeverse is designed to be a multi-chain meme coin, currently operational on Ethereum, BNB Smart Chain, Polygon, Solana, Base, and Avalanche. This multi-chain compatibility is a key differentiator, as it allows Dogeverse to potentially achieve wider adoption compared to meme coins limited to a single blockchain.

One of Dogeverse’s key features is its staking rewards system. Investors can stake their $DOGEVERSE tokens with an estimated annual reward of 100% according to their website. Currently, over 16 billion DOGEVERSE tokens have already been staked. 

The Dogeverse presale has a structure with price increases built-in, either every three days or upon reaching certain fundraising milestones.

Notably, 25% of the 200 billion $DOGEVERSE token supply is earmarked for marketing, indicating a strong focus on driving community growth and adoption. This is important as a strong community is crucial for the success of a meme coin project.

Conclusion

While the Wormhole (W) token’s price pump is notable, it is still trading within a sideways channel, and the indicators are not particularly promising for sustained upward momentum. For W to gain significant traction, it needs to break out of this channel and surpass the $0.7-$0.73 resistance level.

Dogeverse, a new multi-chain meme coin, has already raised over $11 million in its crypto presale within the first few weeks. Its multi-chain compatibility, staking rewards system, and strong focus on marketing indicate potential for growth and adoption. However, as with any early-stage meme coin project, the success of Dogeverse will largely depend on the strength and engagement of its community and marketing efforts. 

Visit Dogeverse

*Cryptonomist did not write the article or test the platform.

A recent study has calculated that global Bitcoin mining is consuming less energy than banks consume. 

The research was conducted by Payless Power, a retail energy provider serving the state of Texas, and analyzed the energy consumption of both Bitcoin mining and the traditional banking system. 

According to Payless Power’s calculations, the Bitcoin network consumes about 167 TWh of energy per year, while the global banking system consumes more than 258 TWh.

In other words, according to this research Bitcoin would consume 35% less than traditional banks. 

Bitcoin vs. banks: mining requires less energy

In light of these estimates, it would seem that traditional banks are currently overall more harmful to the environment than Bitcoin. 

Furthermore, the research by Payless Power also states that Bitcoin could be even more energy efficient in the long run.

The total energy consumption of all banks worldwide would amount to 258.85 terawatt hours (TWh), according to estimates by Payless Power. This consumption would be concentrated in bank data centers, with 225.45 TWh, while physical bank branches, ATMs, and card networks like VISA would consume much less: 22.68 TWh, 2.91 TWh, and 7.81 TWh respectively.

Therefore, the comparison holds, because in banking data centers, energy is consumed by servers, computers, and cooling systems that are actually similar to those used for Bitcoin mining.

In other words, the machines that perform calculations and those used to cool them consume so much, just like in the case of Bitcoin mining.

The estimate for BTC mining globally is 167.14 terawatt hours per year. 

The calculations

For this study, various datasets from multiple sources were used to generate estimates on electricity consumption for both the Bitcoin network and global banks. 

To estimate the electricity consumption of the Bitcoin network, the data from the Bitcoin Energy Consumption Index updated on April 17, 2024 were used, while to estimate the electricity consumption of banks, four main factors were used, each calculated independently with a separate set of assumptions and extrapolations. 

The first factor analyzed are indeed the banking data centers.

Based on assumptions regarding the size of private data centers, energy demand, and operating hours, the energy consumption of Bank of America, with its 23 private data centers, has been estimated. 

The remaining data was extrapolated taking as reference the total value of assets held by Bank of America and the total value of assets held by the top 100 banks in the world in 2023. 

These estimates to be correct assume that all data centers of all banks have the same size and energy demand, and that the total assets held are related to the use of data centers.

The other three factors considered are the consumption of physical bank branches, ATM consumption, and credit and debit card network consumption. 

However, in the end it is the first factor that is the most relevant, because the other three put together would only constitute 13% of the total consumption. 

The comparison and the comment

The comparison between the energy consumption of Bitcoin and that of the global banking system reveals surprising insights into the energy efficiency of digital assets. 

In fact, despite common perception, Bitcoin uses much less energy (35.4% less) compared to the energy used overall by banking operations worldwide.

According to Payless Power, this analysis highlights the potential of digital assets in offering more sustainable solutions within the financial sector, to the point of forcing us to reconsider our assumptions about the real energy costs of our financial choices.

The CEO of Payless Power, Brandon Young, commented saying: 

“It is a common misconception that Bitcoin uses much more energy compared to traditional banks, especially in recent years with many studies highlighting the excessive amount of energy needed to mine the cryptocurrency. However, our study reveals promising results indicating that if the world were to adopt Bitcoin on a global scale, it would actually be more energy efficient.”

According to Young, this disparity in energy consumption highlights the potential of digital assets like Bitcoin to offer more sustainable alternatives in the financial sector, because faced with increasing pressure to mitigate climate change and reduce our carbon footprint, the transition to energy-efficient technologies would be very important to consider, rather than sticking to traditional forms. 

Furthermore, the lower energy consumption of Bitcoin would also suggest that decentralized digital currencies could play a significant role in achieving this goal.

The study by Payless Power has highlighted that traditional banking infrastructures are not devoid of inefficiencies at all, and the fact that global banking operations consume substantially more energy than Bitcoin raises questions about the necessity and sustainability of these traditional systems.

Young added: 

“In the long term, the transition to energy-efficient financial technologies like Bitcoin could have far-reaching implications for the future. It could lead to a more environmentally conscious financial sector, where digital currencies coexist with renewable energy sources to create a greener and more sustainable economy. By harnessing the benefits of decentralized digital currencies, we can work towards building a brighter and more energy-efficient future for generations to come.”

Movement Labs, a pioneering team based in San Francisco, has announced a significant Series A funding of $38 million, led by Polychain Capital, for their ambitious goal of integrating Facebook’s Move Virtual Machine onto the Ethereum blockchain. 

A move that aims to revolutionize the application of smart contracts by mitigating vulnerabilities and increasing transaction capacity.

A solid investment context led by Polychain with the goal of bringing Facebook’s Move to Ethereum

The investment round saw the contribution of a number of notable venture capital entities, including Hack VC, Placeholder, Archetype, Maven 11, Robot Ventures, Figment Capital, Nomad Capital, Bankless Ventures, OKX Ventures, dao5, and Aptos Labs. 

This broad support base underlines the strong industry confidence in the vision and technological proposals of Movement Labs.

Founded in 2022 by Rushi Manche and Cooper Scanlon, Movement Labs seeks to address the pervasive vulnerabilities that have plagued the smart contracts of the Ethereum ecosystem.

Their innovative solution involves the implementation of a new execution environment capable of handling over 30,000 transactions per second (TPS). 

The introduction of a bytecode interpreter fully compatible with EVM, combined with Ethereum for settlement purposes, paves the way for a zero-knowledge Layer Two blockchain.

This development promises to bring parallelization and increased security to Ethereum users, addressing the crucial issues of scalability and security without requiring a detachment from the Ethereum ecosystem.

The urgency of Movement Labs’ mission is highlighted by recent statistics revealing that between 2022 and 2023, hackers exploited smart contracts for a total of over $5.4 billion. 

Such violations have affected important protocols through prevalent attack vectors such as reentrancy attacks. 

Move-EVM by Movement aims to strengthen smart contracts by allowing Move and Solidity developers to deploy fully verified code at runtime, thus preventing potential exploits.

Vision for a unified blockchain ecosystem

The vision of the co-founders goes beyond simple technological advancement; they aim to democratize blockchain development. “The two biggest problems in blockchain infrastructure at the moment are the poor user experience and smart contract exploits,” said Rushi Manche, co-founder of Movement Labs. 

He emphasized the team’s commitment to accelerating innovation in the crypto space, enabling the emergence of new revolutionary platforms similar to Facebook but built on blockchain, accessible even to developers with limited resources.

In line with their expansive vision, Movement Labs also plans to launch Move Stack, an execution layer framework compatible with various leading companies’ rollup frameworks such as Optimism, Polygon, and Arbitrum. 

This strategy aims to improve the execution of smart contracts across multiple networks, promoting a unified blockchain environment through the implementation of shared sequencers and other modular technologies.

After a pre-seed round of 3.4 million dollars, Movement Labs is getting ready to launch its public testnet, Parthenon, in the coming weeks. This will offer developers and users the opportunity to interact and contribute to the evolution of this revolutionary project.

The Serie A round of Movement Labs not only fuels their technological initiatives but also strengthens their position in the blockchain community as innovators and visionaries. 

As they progress, the potential impact of their work on the Ethereum ecosystem and the broader blockchain community remains a highly anticipated development.

Conclusions

The funding obtained from Movement Labs represents not only a significant financial support but also a recognition of the innovation they are bringing to the blockchain world. 

With their commitment to overcoming technical challenges and democratizing blockchain development, Movement Labs is destined to leave a lasting impact.

This phase of growth and development could very well mark the beginning of a new era in the security and effectiveness of smart contracts, envisioning a safer and more scalable future for the global blockchain ecosystem.

Yesterday, the ETC group announced the launch of BTC1, a global ETP on Bitcoin (BTC) listed on Deutsche Börse XETRA.

This is a new ETP on Bitcoin designed for long-term investors focused on the benchmark.

The new ETP on Bitcoin (BTC) listed on Deutsche Börse

The ETC Group Core Bitcoin ETP (ticker BTC1; ISIN DE000A4AER62) is an Exchange-Traded Product specifically designed for long-term buy-and-hold investors, and for global institutional investors with extensive liquidity and risk management needs.

The ETC group has already launched several similar tools in the past, managing now an AUM of over one and a half billion dollars. 

BTC1 has a Total Expense Ratio (TER) of 0.30%, thus offering a competitive advantage in terms of cost efficiency in the European market. Focused on the benchmark, it tracks the benchmark of institutional-level Bitcoin prices using CF Benchmarks, ensuring accuracy and reliability in tracking BTC price movements.

This is a global spot product that provides a lot of liquidity in the primary market, thus filling the spot liquidity of the US, European, and Asian markets during different trading windows. 

It uses a unique Tri-NAV methodology, which provides institutional investors with an extended window of primary market liquidity covering BTC spot liquidity on different markets. 

Therefore, in addition to the classic stock exchange opening hours, the issuer provides for three price determinations during the day (instead of just one), to expand the liquidity of the primary market also in other time zones. 

This means that institutional investors can trade their holdings for a longer period than any other regulated vehicle on the global primary market Bitcoin spot.

According to ETC Group this makes BTC1 the first global spot ETP on Bitcoin.

BTC1 will be tradable on both XETRA and many other platforms, and will be added to HANetf’s pan-European ETP distribution platform.

ETC Group

ETC Group offers high-level investment products in the digital asset sector, domiciled in Germany. 

Their Exchange Traded Products are physically backed, and act as a bridge between the traditional regulated financial market and the crypto market. So far, they have issued ETPs on Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other important cryptocurrencies.

In June 2020, the company launched the first Bitcoin ETP in Europe with centralized clearing on the market, issued in Germany and always listed on the German stock exchange XETRA, the largest ETF trading market in Europe.

Even BTC1 is issued in Germany, with primary listing on XETRA, 100% physical coverage and full fungibility with the underlying asset. 

ETC Group holds digital assets at Zodia Custody, one of the leading European providers of institutional-grade cold wallet custody, with banking-level compliance and governance framework.

The CEO of ETC Group, Tim Bevan, has stated: 

“At ETC Group, we want to advance the cryptocurrency investment sector and the launch of BTC1 represents a unique proposal. With BTC1, we are introducing the first globally oriented Bitcoin ETP to the market, with extended liquidity and risk management features that our clients need. We are proud to be the first to launch another market and believe that BTC1 has the potential to uniquely serve institutional investors with the best features in the category.”

The Product Manager of ETC Group, Chanchal Samadder, added: 

“BTC1 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Bitcoin investment products. Designed with benchmark-conscious and long-term investors in mind, BTC1 offers a unique blend of cost efficiency, accuracy, and extended primary market liquidity, setting a new standard in the Bitcoin ETP market.”

The CEO of Zodia Custody, Julian Sawyer, commented saying: 

“It’s one breakthrough after another with our innovative colleagues at ETC Group. BTC1, just launched, represents exactly what institutions have been looking for when increasing the adoption of digital assets, and we are doing our part to ensure they can do so with the highest security and compliance through bank-level custody. Together, we continue to be at the forefront of building a truly solid ecosystem for a mature digital asset sector”.

Deutsche Börse XETRA and the new ETP on Bitcoin (BTC)

Deutsche Börse is the company that operates the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, and XETRA is its fully electronic trading platform on which 90% of stock trades in Germany take place. 

The Frankfurt Stock Exchange was actually founded in 1585, and XETRA is now one of the largest stock exchanges in the world and the third in Europe.

Deutsche Börse was created only in 1992, but in continuity with Frankfurter Wertpapierbörse, the company created just two years earlier to manage the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. 

On the official XETRA website, in addition to all traditional investment products, there is now also a specific section dedicated to crypto ETNs.

Regarding BTC1, they state that this new ETN allows investors to obtain low-cost exposure to Bitcoin, and that it uses the institutional reference rate of the Bitcoin CF from CME (BRR) as the benchmark market for the spot price of BTC.

They also declare that BTC1 is physically guaranteed and admitted to the regulated market of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.

Benchmark and liquidity 

The benchmark and liquidity are important for this type of products, because liquidity on Bitcoin is fragmented across many exchanges, which complicates price determination for investors. 

For this reason, they wanted to develop a more robust benchmark that aggregates this liquidity, and that uses the BRR index and its US and Asian variants BRRY and BRRAP. 

BTC1 leverages all three regional variants of this benchmark, allowing institutional investors to monitor the price of Bitcoin accurately and securely, ultimately providing access to three liquidity pools over a 14-hour period (compared to the traditional 8-hour window for all other ETFs and ETPs).

Tezos Foundation has formed a new partnership with Wallet-as-a-Service provider Magic, to address one of the most pressing challenges of Web3. Thanks to the integration of the Tezos blockchain, Magic’s dApps will be able to offer users a frictionless onboarding experience. 

Tezos blockchain and Magic to overcome the challenge of Web3: user onboarding and authentication

Tezos Foundation has formed a new partnership with Wallet-as-a-Service provider Magic. The goal is to address one of the most pressing challenges in the Web3 space: user onboarding and authentication

"For the past 12 months, Tezos has consistently been a top 10 chain in Magic’s ecosystem." – @magic_labs

Because of this organic growth, Magic is now deepening integration on #Tezos.

Learn more about how they're featuring it as a top blockchain of choice for developers:… pic.twitter.com/jFbh1Rjwm7

— Tezos (@tezos) April 25, 2024

“In the last 12 months, Tezos has consistently been a top 10 chain in the Magic ecosystem.” – @magic_labs Thanks to this organic growth, Magic is now deepening integration with #Tezos. To learn more about how they are presenting it as the top choice blockchain for developers: https://spotlight.tezos.com/magic-simplifies-web3-access/.”

So, on one side there is the Tezos blockchain, famous for its self-amending mechanism and the energy-efficient proof-of-stake consensus algorithm. On the other side, there is Magic’s innovative solution that allows users to effortlessly create wallets, eliminating the need for cumbersome startup phrases, downloads, or plug-ins.

Basically, with the integration of Magic’s seamless wallet solution, decentralized applications (dApps) powered by Tezos can now offer users a frictionless onboarding experience. 

This means that the need for traditional passwords decreases and barriers to entry are reduced.

Tezos blockchain and Magic: a new Web3 infrastructure dedicated to developers

Overall, the partnership between Tezos Foundation and Magic serves as the foundation for the new Web3 infrastructure that opens the doors for developers to create engaging and user-friendly experiences. 

On this matter, Arthur Breitman, co-founder of Tezos, stated the following: 

“The extension of support to Tezos by Magic will make it easier for builders and creators to access new users to their dApps. By combining Tezos’ secure and scalable infrastructure with Magic’s intuitive solutions for authentication and wallet, developers are helped to build decentralized applications accessible to a much wider audience”.

Thanks to Magic’s SDKs and APIs, developers can seamlessly incorporate secure authentication into their Tezos-based projects, focusing on providing exceptional user experiences without compromising security.

Even Sean Li, co-founder and CEO of Magic, wanted to release comments about it:

“Like Magic, Tezos is also focused on security and is winning over the masses through cutting-edge brands like Ubisoft. From day one, Magic has aimed to simplify the complexities of wallets for a multi-chain world. Today, we are excited to deepen our integration with Tezos and unite our ecosystems, offering the best possible user experience to bring the next billion users to Web3.”

The new member of the Foundation Council: former French minister Fleur Pellerin

At the beginning of the month, Tezos Blockchain made headlines for the arrival of a new member in its Foundation Council: former French minister Fleur Pellerin.

In addition to being Minister of Culture and Communication, Pellerin is also the head of a venture capital fund with investments in Web3 companies such as Ledger, Bitfury, and Ramp. 

The new entry of Pellerin in the Tezos Foundation Council should bring with it a wealth of leadership and technological skills.

The Tezos Foundation Council has the general responsibility of managing and administering the Tezos Foundation and its assets and defining the strategy. 

For those who are new to the crypto world, knowing the right platforms and tools, such as CoinMarketCap and Blockchain.com, is essential. 

In particular, we see that CoinMarketCap helps users in researching the main cryptocurrencies, while Blockchain.com is useful for exploring blockchains. However, there are also other valid platforms. 

Let’s see in this article everything there is to know about it. 

A quick guide to crypto platforms and tools: Blockchain.com

Blockchain.com, founded in 2011, has emerged as the leading crypto finance company, serving individuals, projects, protocols, and institutions.

With a global management team boasting over 200 years of combined experience in some of the most renowned financial institutions, technology companies, and startups, the company has helped shape the future of finance.

The founders of Blockchain.com firmly believe that, within the next decade, the Internet financial system will be the largest in the world, powered by cryptocurrencies. 

The company started its journey as one of the first pioneers of infrastructure for the Bitcoin community. Specifically, by launching a Blockchain Explorer that allowed anyone to examine transactions and study the blockchain.

This was followed by an API that allowed companies to build on Bitcoin and a widely used cryptographic wallet that gives everyone the ability to control their own money.

The mission of Blockchain.com is to accelerate the adoption of cryptocurrencies and usher in the future of finance.

With a team that spans across the globe, the company works tirelessly to promote innovation and offer products that empower customers and drive the industry to new levels. 

Passion, determination, and enthusiasm are at the core of Blockchain.com’s identity, aiming to bring the world of finance to new horizons.

CoinMarketCap: the platform to monitor cryptocurrencies 

CoinMarketCap is a website specialized in monitoring the market capitalization and prices of cryptocurrencies. 

It is not an exchange or a trading platform, but it acts as an aggregator of information, offering data on prices, trading volumes, token supply, platforms, and much more. 

However, it is not completely neutral: CoinMarketCap belongs to Binance, which can influence its impartiality, with a tendency to favor cryptocurrencies listed by the well-known exchange.

The CoinMarketCap service was born out of the need to have a centralized source of information for a highly volatile market like cryptocurrencies. 

Although Binance is one of the largest exchanges in the world, none include all the cryptocurrencies listed on CoinMarketCap, and the volumes reported by individual exchanges do not reflect the true trading landscape. 

CoinMarketCap aims to provide an overview, offering an average price that takes into account the differences between exchanges.

CoinMarketCap offers its users a wide range of customizable tools and charts, useful for both beginner and experienced traders. 

In addition to monitoring features, the site allows you to change the default currency for quotes, offering support for USD, EUR, CAD, GBP, JPY, and other fiat currencies. 

Another feature that has contributed to the popularity of CoinMarketCap is its multilingual support, which allows users to view information in different languages, although the translations are automatic and sometimes inaccurate.

By clicking on a cryptocurrency, users can access detailed data and customizable charts showing the historical trend. The platform also allows to filter cryptocurrencies based on various criteria. 

eToro: innovation in trading with copytrading 

Another valid platform is eToro, which stands out among trading platforms for its copytrading feature, an innovative option that allows you to automatically copy the strategies of the best traders. 

However, eToro is much more than that. In recent years, the platform has consistently worked to improve itself and become accessible even to those who are new to the world of investments.

The advantages of eToro are numerous, such as the training. eToro indeed offers a wide section dedicated to training, including the possibility of using a demo account to practice without risks before investing real money.

Accessible minimum deposit: with a minimum deposit of 100€, eToro makes trading more accessible to a wider audience. 

Still, innovation continues, namely the introduction of new products such as CopyPortfolios, which group together various investment strategies.

eToro is a globally recognized broker, with over 25 million registered users, which testifies to its reliability. The platform operates with numerous licenses in different countries, ensuring security and compliance with regulations.

In addition to copytrading, eToro also offers features typical of an exchange and a broker. Users can buy cryptocurrencies directly on the market, like on an exchange, or trade them through CFDs (Contract for Difference), leveraging financial leverage.

One of the main advantages of eToro is the wide range of cryptocurrencies available, in addition to the possibility of accessing real-time information on CoinMarketCap. 

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The Bitcoin halving has come and gone, and as many analysts predicted, the supply shock sent prices upwards. As history has proven, the Bitcoin halving not only affects Bitcoin but other tokens too. The Ethereum price has seen a rise, as has many altcoins. Coindesk has made a few predictions about where the Bitcoin and Ethereum price will go, but not even the most bullish analysts have these tokens doing as well as the new Meme-fi AI token Raboo (RABT), currently in presale at $0.0036

Bitcoin (BTC): Bitcoin Halving Sees Price Predictions Double

For those who are unsure, the Bitcoin halving is an event that happens every four years where Bitcoin mining becomes twice as difficult as it used to be, which means a miner’s reward “halves” for the same amount of energy put in. This is the genius of Bitcoin, ensuring its scarcity and deflationary nature.  

The Bitcoin halving means the supply of Bitcoin is immediately cut in half, and basic economic principle states when supply goes down, the price goes up. Coindesk is predicting that Bitcoin will far overshoot its all-time high and hit over $86,000 within a month and then will double that in a year, making Bitcoin a solid investment. 

Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum Price Prediction Lowballs

Coindesk’s Ethereum price prediction is bullish but not as bullish as Bitcoin’s. According to the trusted source, the Ethereum price will reach about $3,200 in this month, well below its ATH, but Ethereum will double to about $6,600 in the year.

This is remarkably low, as altcoins have traditionally outpaced Bitcoin in post-halving gains. It is possible that the analysts have this one wrong, and the Ethereum price can still climb quite significantly on improved post-Bitcoin halving market sentiment. Still, investors looking for faster assets may have other options.

Raboo (RABT): Presale Gains Sees ICO Off To Flying Start

Seasoned investors know where to get the most bang for their buck, and that is often in ICOs and presales. Presales are structured so as to  guarantee a price rise independent of market sentiment. Raboo’s presale is set to go up by 233% at the conclusion. On the back of the post-Bitcoin halving sentiment, analysts are predicting Raboo will 100X once it trades on the open market after its presale.

Raboo is a new AI meme coin that marries the current market-defining coin categories of AI crypto with meme coins, two of the highest-grossing coin types in the cryptosphere. Meme coins have proven to be extremely lucrative investments. With an AI engine behind it, Raboo is set to go nuclear upon release, making a massive ROI for early investors.

Conclusion:

The overall prediction for the crypto markets since the Bitcoin halving is bullish, with the Bitcoin and Ethereum prices growing steadily. But for massive ROI, partaking in the Raboo presale is a great way to follow in lucrative meme coin investment footsteps for returns like those seen by investors in Dogecoin, Shiba Inu, and Pepe Coin.

You can participate in the Raboo presale here.

*This article was paid for. Cryptonomist did not write the article or test the platform.

In a significant legal challenge, the crypto company Consensys has initiated a lawsuit against the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), focusing on the classification of Ethereum’s native token, Ether, as a non-security.

Consensys defends Ethereum from the SEC: it is not a security

Presented in a federal court in Texas, this case reflects the controversial litigation involving Ripple Labs and its digital token XRP, which previously led the SEC to concede that XRP does not qualify as a security. 

The lawsuit comes at a critical time for Consensys, a key supporter of the Ethereum blockchain, as they seek to defend against a potential SEC lawsuit regarding their management of the MetaMask wallet.

The 34-page legal document from Consensys uses emphatic language to argue that the SEC’s actions against Ether are not only illegal but also pose a serious threat to the broader blockchain ecosystem. 

According to the complaint, if Ether were to be considered a security, this would seriously disrupt the functionality of the Ethereum network in the United States, potentially blocking one of the most significant technological innovations on the internet.

This classification would impose traditional security law on every transaction involving Ether, leading to a chilling effect on its use.

This case marks a crucial moment in the ongoing battle between the SEC and the cryptocurrency industry, which has intensified under the leadership of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler.

Under his leadership, the SEC has launched an aggressive enforcement campaign that includes issuing numerous subpoenas to entities involved with the Ethereum blockchain. These actions have sparked strong criticism from the crypto community, which sees these measures as invasive and excessive.

The presentation also reveals that in early April, Consensys received a Wells notice from the SEC, a formal indication that the agency may soon pursue legal action. According to the notice, the SEC is considering suing Consensys on the grounds that MetaMask has been operated as an unauthorized broker-dealer. 

This development could lead to a separate legal battle, depending on whether the SEC chooses to pursue this new case or address the issues raised in Consensys’ existing lawsuit.

The Howey test is not enough for the SEC

The ongoing debate on whether Ether should be considered a security significantly depends on how it is used and distributed within the network. The SEC has historically used the “Howey Test” to determine whether a particular asset constitutes an investment contract and therefore a security. 

However, many in the crypto industry argue that Ethereum, as a decentralized platform, does not meet these criteria because Ether primarily acts as a utility token within the network, facilitating operations and activities of developers rather than serving as an investment.

Furthermore, the outcome of this case could have widespread implications not only for Ethereum but also for the entire cryptocurrency industry. A ruling in favor of Consensys could validate the argument that decentralized blockchain tokens do not automatically qualify as securities, thus providing a clearer regulatory framework for the industry. 

On the contrary, a decision in favor of the SEC could lead to greater regulatory control and possibly stricter controls on similar cryptocurrencies.

This legal battle comes at a time when the SEC is considering the approval of several applications for Ethereum Spot ETFs, which would allow trading of Ether on traditional securities markets. 

The classification of Ether as a security could have direct consequences on these applications, potentially influencing how these ETFs are evaluated and regulated.

Conclusion

As the case progresses, it is expected to attract significant attention from regulators, investors, and legal experts eager to understand the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency regulation. 

The outcome of this case could establish a precedent that strengthens the crypto industry’s fight for autonomy from traditional securities laws or reinforces the SEC’s authority over new digital assets. As the court deliberates, the future of Ethereum and perhaps the broader structure of blockchain technology hangs in the balance.

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The crypto market is in constant flux, bringing new chances and challenges to investors. As this market grows, it becomes more important to select the right trading platform for cryptocurrencies

Types of Platforms for Trading Cryptocurrency

Many cryptocurrency trading platforms are available that cater to different types of traders. Traditional brokers additionally provide different securities, like Bitcoin futures. While these exchanges support the most common types of digital currencies, specialized crypto exchanges contain those that can be traded in a direct way. Services like Cash App and PayPal that deal with payment also enable users to buy and sell popular cryptocurrencies easily.

Overview of Top Crypto Exchanges and Brokers in April

In April 2024, some of the top cryptocurrency exchanges and apps are known for their easy-to-use interfaces, low fees, and strong security measures.

#1 Robinhood

Regarding its interface, which is popular for its simplicity and commission-free trading, Robinhood provides a smooth experience when purchasing and trading directly in cryptocurrency. Worldwide users can enable themselves to quickly include in the e-wallet cryptocurrency and other assets like equity and ETFs.

#2 Interactive Brokers 

They offer low commissions and provide direct access to a variety of investment funds. Paxos Trust Company and Zero Hash have served as a partner to traders who can now explore cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum futures.

#3 Webull

An investing platform that offers a huge variety of assets like stocks, ETFs, and crypto which would make you feel confident and give you an opportunity to grow. The attractive zero-rate commission on crypto trade, which will probably bring both new and experienced traders to their platform, is another factor to consider.

#4 Binance.US 

The enthusiasts of crypto are able to benefit from the fact that the Binance.US exchange can trade more than 300 digital assets. Moreover, it has competitive rates and a wide asset pool.

#5 Tastytrade 

Tastytrade being a fresh player in the industry still succeeds based on its affordability which its competitors aren’t able to match in terms of crypto trade pricing. The service is teamed up with Zero Hash and focuses on providing easy and cheap transactions. Tastytrade is known to be a nice choice for traders who are concerned with their spending and need budget-friendly alternatives.

#6 TradeStation 

This platform provides direct trading for cryptocurrency and also keeps the pricing fee structure open. Traders can enjoy the functionality of trading with Bitcoin futures and other different investment alternatives.

#7 Coinbase 

Coinbase has a strong reputation as one of the safest exchange platforms in the crypto world from a security point of view as well as being the best for user experience. Therefore, it is the best choice for crypto traders. 

#8 Kraken

Kraken is well-known for its wide range of coins and advanced trading features. It caters to both new and experienced traders. With competitive fees and an easy-to-use interface, Kraken has a loyal user base. 

#9 Charles Schwab 

Charles Schwab, as a reliable brokerage firm, provides access to Bitcoin futures; this enables the investors to potentially profit from crypto’s potential market. Furthermore, Schwab not only offers its clients tempting commissions and an easy-to-navigate interface but is well renowned for being a safe investment option.

Regulatory and Legal Considerations

One of the essential tasks for every crypto exchange is to abide by all the regulations and laws. It is the key that leads the crypto exchange to succeed in terms of legality and public trust. The cryptocurrency market is unregulated and different jurisdictions have their own set of regulations. 

1. Licensing and Compliance: Licenses and observance of regulations are the most important factors that should be in place for an exchange to be compliant with the law. It could be submitted to the relevant financial bodies as well as to seek the required licenses while observing AML and KYC regulations.

2. Securities Regulations: Several jurisdictions impose securities laws as a means to control issues of cryptocurrencies. Security token trading exchanges need to adhere to registration and disclosure regulations otherwise they may incur enforcement action.

3. Consumer Protection: Regulatory bodies essentially aim to limit an investor’s losses as well as ensure the fairness of the market. The exchanges should have robust security schemes and ensure efficiency by information regarding the fees and the trading types.

4. Taxation: The cryptocurrency tax system is different in every country, which may affect crypto investors and exchanges. Exchanges may be required to collect taxes, report transactions, and provide tax-related documents to users. Knowing and obeying tax law is vital.

Bottom Line

The crypto market is full of opportunities for investors but choosing the right platform is a decision that may make a huge difference. When analyzing security issues, fees, and regulatory issues, traders can do their trading with great confidence and minimize risks. Trustworthy exchanges and brokers give you a safe hand to trade crypto-currency but watch out for fake exchanges. In the fast-paced crypto industry, staying informed and being careful is critical to staying ahead of the curve.

*This article was paid for. Cryptonomist did not write the article or test the platform.