Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA) has proposed reclassifying cryptocurrencies as financial products, bringing digital assets under the same regulatory framework as traditional financial instruments.The plan introduces stricter disclosure and insider-trading rules for crypto platforms and cuts the proposed tax rate on crypto gains from around 55% to a flat 20%, aiming to increase transparency and investor protection.If adopted, the changes could boost mainstream adoption and institutional interest in crypto while imposing heavier compliance requirements on exchanges and businesses operating in Japan.

The Senate Agriculture Committee will hold a confirmation hearing for President Trump’s new CFTC nominee, Dawn Stump, after the withdrawal of his first pick, Heath Tarbert. The hearing will decide whether Stump will lead the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.The CFTC oversees derivatives, futures and swaps markets, and its chair influences rules affecting market stability, transparency and the growing digital asset sector. Observers are watching for signals on future cryptocurrency regulation.Stump, a former senior adviser to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, has drawn criticism over industry ties and potential conflicts of interest. Senators are expected to press her on independence, enforcement priorities and responses to market disruptions.The confirmation outcome could shape how regulators handle fallout from episodes like the GameStop trading frenzy, curb market manipulation and set the course for oversight of traditional and crypto markets.

Propanc Biopharma announced plans to build a crypto treasury of up to $100 million, with backing from Hexstone Capital, to support the development of its experimental cancer treatment and revive investor interest.The company says the crypto treasury will provide enhanced liquidity, transparency, and security while helping fund research and potential clinical trials. This move highlights a growing intersection between biopharma financing and blockchain-based asset management.If realized, the $100M crypto fund could accelerate Propanc’s development timeline and set a precedent for alternative funding strategies in the healthcare sector.

A recent AIMA survey shows 55% of traditional hedge funds now hold crypto assets, with most planning to boost exposure — a sign of growing institutional adoption.Greater U.S. regulatory clarity and the launch of crypto ETFs are increasing investor confidence, while volatility, valuation challenges, and infrastructure gaps remain concerns.As markets and rules mature, hedge funds view crypto for diversification and potential returns, pointing to continued expansion of digital assets in mainstream portfolios.

Major crypto-related stocks, including Coinbase, Block and Robinhood, fell sharply this week as investor sentiment soured. The market reacted to a recent $19 billion liquidation and mounting macroeconomic concerns, driving heightened volatility across digital-asset stocks.Fear of a potential government shutdown and growing regulatory scrutiny amplified the sell-off, prompting traders to reassess exposure to the sector. The losses underscored the fragile, sentiment-driven nature of crypto markets.Despite the downturn, some investors remain optimistic about long-term blockchain innovation. The episode serves as a reminder to approach crypto stocks with caution, diversify holdings, and stay informed amid rapid market swings.

Market maker Wintermute warns that apparent growth in crypto liquidity may be misleading due to "recycled liquidity" — assets being traded within the same ecosystem without fresh external inflows. This practice can inflate volumes and mask true demand.Recycled liquidity can distort price discovery and increase volatility, creating hidden risks for investors and traders who rely on accurate market data.Wintermute's alert highlights the need for greater transparency and regulatory oversight to ensure trading volumes reflect genuine market activity and to reduce potential manipulation.While the crypto market remains resilient, addressing recycled liquidity and improving market integrity are key steps toward long-term stability and increased institutional confidence.

This episode breaks down three crucial factors that could prevent Bitcoin from sliding into a deeper bear market.First, maintaining price above the 200-week exponential moving average (EMA) would signal long-term support and market resilience.Second, continued Federal Reserve liquidity measures (a form of stealth QE) could drive investors toward Bitcoin as an inflation hedge.Third, the return of U.S. market liquidity after the government shutdown may boost trading volume and stabilize Bitcoin’s price.

Giggle Academy, founded by Binance’s CZ, has publicly denied any affiliation with the GIGGLE token after the token’s sudden price collapse sparked investor panic and widespread confusion.The academy stressed it focuses solely on education and resources, while CZ called out misleading claims and urged caution when dealing with unverified tokens.The episode underscores crypto market volatility and the importance of transparency, due diligence, and clear communication as the GIGGLE token’s future remains uncertain.

Bitcoin climbed as news of a tentative US-China tariff truce eased recent market panic and boosted investor sentiment ahead of the upcoming tariff meeting.The crypto market reacted positively, with volatility calming and traders watching key resistance levels for potential further gains.Industry observers note Bitcoin’s growing appeal as a safe-haven asset amid geopolitical uncertainty, though caution remains as negotiations continue.

This episode examines the launch of the first U.S. Solana ETF and why it matters for SOL’s market exposure and institutional interest.Analysts are optimistic, with some forecasting a move toward $400 as ETF inflows and recent price momentum could drive further gains.We highlight the main drivers behind the bullish case: Solana’s high throughput and low fees, a growing dApp ecosystem, and new institutional access via the ETF.Listen for a breakdown of potential scenarios and the key indicators to watch next — price action, ETF flows, and broader crypto market trends.

The Basel Committee is revisiting its global banking rules on crypto-assets as stablecoins gain prominence, signaling a potential shift toward more tailored guidance for banks engaging with digital currencies.The review aims to address growing stablecoin use, reduce regulatory uncertainty, and clarify banks' risk management and capital requirements for crypto exposures.If adopted, the updated rules could open the door to greater bank involvement in custody, fiat-crypto flows, and institutional investment, with notable implications for market adoption and stability.

As central banks expand money printing and weaken fiat purchasing power, the "debasement trade"—investing in assets that protect against currency devaluation—has gained momentum among investors.Traditional safe-havens like gold and newer alternatives like Bitcoin are drawing interest for their limited supply and potential to preserve wealth amid inflation and monetary stimulus.Rising market volatility and policy-driven uncertainty are accelerating adoption of digital assets; Bitcoin's role as "digital gold" may strengthen as more investors seek inflation hedges.The trend toward alternative stores of value looks set to continue, shaping demand and the long-term outlook for Bitcoin and other real-assets.

This episode explores why decentralized finance must move beyond flashy high yields and prioritize certainty to attract institutional investors.We examine the risks that undermine yield—smart contract bugs, impermanent loss, rug pulls, and market volatility—and why predictability matters more than raw returns for large capital allocators.The conversation highlights practical solutions: rigorous audits, transparent governance, thorough testing, and proactive regulatory engagement to create dependable execution and legal clarity.Ultimately, the episode argues that security, transparency, and compliance are the keys to unlocking institutional adoption and mainstream growth for DeFi.

Ferrari has announced a new digital token for its top clients that will give holders the opportunity to bid on the Le Mans-winning 499P in a limited auction set to debut in 2027. The initiative uses blockchain-based tokens to open exclusive access to one of Ferrari’s most iconic race cars.The move signals Ferrari’s entry into the crypto space and reflects a growing trend of luxury brands exploring digital assets to engage high-value customers. With only a select number of tokens available, the auction promises a competitive and high-profile event for collectors and enthusiasts.

BNB emerged as the standout performer in “Uptober,” turning a sluggish month for Bitcoin into a breakout for the Binance ecosystem. Strong trading activity and network advantages helped BNB outpace competitors.The rally was driven by a surge in memecoin trading, rising fees and congestion on rival platforms that pushed traders to BNB, and the impressive ascent of DeFi project Aster, which boosted market interest and volume.All this unfolded amid renewed regulatory scrutiny of Binance. Despite the pressure on the exchange, BNB showed resilience, leaving questions about its long-term path as market volatility and compliance issues persist.

Quick market overview of major cryptocurrencies with price action and near-term levels to watch. The episode covers Bitcoin's pressure near $60,000, Ethereum's struggle below $4,000 ahead of EIP-1559, and strong momentum in Solana.Highlights include Bitcoin holding $60k with a potential bounce to $65k, BNB consolidating under $500 (watch $500/$450), XRP pressured by the SEC case, and SOL reaching new highs above $200. Ethereum's upcoming upgrade is flagged as a possible catalyst.Altcoin rundown: DOGE trading between $0.20–$0.25, ADA below $2 awaiting smart contract developments, LINK consolidating under $30 (watch $30/$25), XLM ranging $0.30–$0.35, and the new HYPE token gaining attention for its rapid rise.

Bitcoin fell to a 15-week low, dropping below $105,000 as stress at US regional banks spilled into the crypto market, echoing the banking-driven volatility seen in 2023.Traders focused on the crucial $100,000 threshold as market sentiment turned bearish and volatility increased.Analysts warned that interconnected risks between traditional banks and crypto could prolong uncertainty, prompting investors to reassess risk and strategy.Despite the sell-off, some see the correction as a potential buying opportunity for longer-term investors amid ongoing market shifts.

Ripple has partnered with Absa Bank to bring bank-grade crypto custody services to South Africa, expanding Ripple's institutional custody network across Africa.The collaboration targets institutional investors and high-net-worth clients, offering secure, regulated digital asset custody to protect holdings from theft and hacking.This move aims to boost institutional confidence and adoption of cryptocurrencies in South Africa, setting a higher security standard for the region's crypto ecosystem.

Democrats have blocked progress on a U.S. Senate bill to create a national crypto framework, demanding new amendments focused on stronger consumer protections and clearer tax rules for digital asset transactions.The dispute centers on measures to prevent fraud, protect vulnerable investors, and ensure crypto is taxed comparably to traditional finance. Supporters warn that vague rules could harm innovation, while critics say tougher safeguards are needed.Lawmakers will continue negotiations in the coming weeks as the industry watches closely — the final compromise will shape the future regulatory landscape for crypto in the United States.

AI-powered wearables—smartwatches, fitness trackers and similar devices—are collecting intimate, real-time data about our bodies and lives, forcing a rethink of traditional privacy norms. This episode explores how constant data harvesting changes what privacy means and who controls our personal information.We examine cryptography as a practical defense: encrypting data, limiting access, and pushing companies to prioritize security. The discussion covers technical and social challenges, from algorithm complexity to trade-offs between convenience and control.Listeners will come away with a clear sense of the risks, the potential protections, and the policy and design choices needed to keep personal data private as wearables become more pervasive.