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OnePiece Labs × Solana: Powering the Next Wave of Web3 Innovation

Events & Conferences 📅

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August 13, 2025

OnePiece Labs × Solana: Powering the Next Wave of Web3 Innovation

The future of Web3 is accelerating—and this time, it’s happening at lightning speed. OnePiece Labs, a leading founder-first Web3 accelerator, is teaming up with Solana, one of the fastest and most scalable blockchains, to launch a game-changing Web3 accelerator aimed at empowering early-stage founders building the next wave of decentralized applications.

This accelerator marks a pivotal moment for Web3 innovation, combining Solana’s unmatched speed, low fees, and thriving ecosystem with OnePiece Labs’ proven track record of hands-on founder support. Together, they’re not just building projects—they’re shaping the future of RWA (Real-World Assets), PayFi (Payments in Web3), and AI-powered tooling.

Apply Now to secure your spot in this transformative accelerator program.

Key Dates:

Applications Close: August 22, 2025
Program Start: September 1, 2025
Online Demo Day: November 13, 2025‍
On-site Demo Day: December 12, 2025 (in Abu Dhabi at Solana Breakpoint)

More Information: Event details & program outline

What’s Happening: A Strategic Alliance with Purpose

“This accelerator launch is a major milestone for us. We’ve always believed in supporting mid-stage founders with practical, hands-on help, not just theory or hype. With Solana’s technical firepower and our community expertise, this accelerator will provide everything you need to build fast and grow smart.”
— KJ, CEO of OnePiece Labs

Web3 rewards those who move fast—and this accelerator is designed for founders who want to move faster than the market. By merging Solana’s record-breaking speed and scalability with OnePiece Labs’ deeply embedded founder network, this program offers more than mentorship—it’s a launchpad into one of the most vibrant ecosystems in blockchain.

Solana delivers what modern builders need: lightning-fast transaction finality, fees so low they disappear into the background, and an infrastructure proven at scale across DePIN, global payments, high-performance gaming, DeFi, and more. It’s not just technology—it’s a foundation for the next decade of decentralized innovation.

OnePiece Labs brings the human edge. With over 60 successful projects accelerated, $30M+ raised in early-stage funding, and a global footprint stretching from Silicon Valley to APAC, their model is hands-on, execution-first, and tailored to real founder challenges—not theory. Here, founders aren’t just another “batch.” They’re partners in a program built for results.

Why Now: Riding the Web3 Growth Wave

The Web3 space is shifting from speculative hype to real adoption. Users want better experiences, enterprises are exploring blockchain-backed solutions, and the demand for high-performance infrastructure is surging. By launching this accelerator now, OnePiece Labs and Solana are positioning founders right at the heart of this momentum—where opportunity meets execution.

This brings us to the most important question—who will benefit from this accelerator?

Who’s It For: The Builders Shaping the Future

This program is designed for passionate Web3 founders who are past the ideation stage and have tangible products, early traction, and a hunger to scale globally.
The ideal participant is:

Building in Real-World Assets (RWA), PayFi, or AI in Web3
Ready to leverage hands-on mentorship from top-tier operators and investors
Committed to delivering measurable impact, not just chasing trends

The accelerator will attract innovators from around the world, including blockchain developers, fintech disruptors, AI engineers, and founders working on bridging Web2 and Web3 experiences.

And with focus comes clarity—let’s explore the three tracks this accelerator is betting big on.

Three High-Conviction Tracks

A timely collaboration designed to fast-track Web3 founders—combining Solana’s speed with OnePiece Labs’ proven startup guidance.

Real-World Assets (RWA): Digitizing physical assets like real estate, commodities, and collectibles into secure, tradable tokens. This opens new liquidity channels, fractional ownership opportunities, and cross-border investment access.
PayFi: Building blockchain-powered payment systems that enable instant, low-cost, and borderless transactions. Ideal for remittances, micro-payments, and financial inclusion in underbanked regions.
AI in Web3: Integrating AI’s analytical and decision-making capabilities with blockchain’s transparency and decentralization to create smarter, more autonomous dApps, DAOs, and marketplaces.

These sectors represent the next frontiers in Web3 innovation, with the potential to redefine industries and global systems.

But ideas alone don’t change the world—execution does. That’s where the OnePiece Labs accelerator model comes in.

How It Works: From Vision to Venture

The accelerator offers founders:

Expert-led workshops on fundraising, product-market fit, and scaling
Direct access to Solana’s technical teams for infrastructure optimization
Mentorship from successful Web3 founders and industry leaders
Demo days with top-tier investors and VCs

This program isn’t about theory—it’s about building, refining, and launching real products into the market. Let’s stay informed about upcoming events through the community event calendar!

Community Events Calendar

To celebrate and grow the Solana ecosystem, founders and developers can engage through a series of global and regional community events leading up to Demo Day.

Upcoming Events:

University Tour – September 2025 – Inspiring the next generation of Web3 innovators.
Solana APEX – September 2025 – A deep dive into Solana’s tech and ecosystem growth.
OnePiece Conference – October 2025 – Gathering industry leaders and builders.
OnePiece Boba – August / November 2025 – Informal networking and idea-sharing over boba tea.
Demo Day at Solana Breakpoint – December 12, 2025 – Showcasing the accelerator’s top projects on a global stage in Abu Dhabi.

These events offer unmatched networking, learning, and collaboration opportunities for anyone passionate about blockchain innovation. And no global initiative is complete without the right platform to amplify it—enter Orbis86.

About Orbis86

Orbis86 is revolutionizing Web3 innovation through its Engage – Educate – Elevate approach, engaging users with personalized experiences, educating them on emerging technologies, and elevating their journey with seamless cross-chain integration. Throughout the year, we host global events that bring communities together to explore Web3 and AI, enabling meaningful discussions and collaboration. Our mission is to create an inclusive ecosystem where individuals can learn, grow, and shape the future of decentralized technology.

First Speakers Announced for Blockchain Futurist Conference Miami, the Next Major Web3 Event in the U.S.

Events & Conferences 📅

Anna Dovzhenko

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August 12, 2025

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First Speakers Announced for Blockchain Futurist Conference Miami, the Next Major Web3 Event in the U.S.

Taking place at a pivotal time for the American crypto industry, the 8th annual conference is set to make a huge impact this November 5 – 6, 2025.

MIAMI, FL, August 12, 2025 – Blockchain Futurist Conference returns for its eighth edition on November 5-6, 2025, bringing its signature Web3 experience to Greater Miami, Florida. The event will take place at the iconic Hard Rock Guitar Hotel and DAER, offering a unique mix of quality programming and immersive networking.

For more than seven years, Futurist Conference has redefined what a Web3 event can be, earning a reputation for sparking high-value conversations in immersive, unconventional settings.

Now, with momentum accelerating across the industry and regulatory clarity beginning to take shape in the United States, the timing for its U.S. expansion could not be better. The Miami edition continues that legacy in a city rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for Web3 innovation.

The first wave of speakers for Futurist Miami has officially been announced, representing some of the most influential names across crypto, blockchain, AI, and emerging tech:

Mike Belshe, Co-Founder and CEO, BitGo
Shaw Walters, Founder, Eliza Labs
Luca Netz, CEO, Pudgy Penguins
Lisa Loud, Executive Director, Secret Network
Evan Kuhn, President, DeLorean Labs
Justin Sun, Founder, TRON
Janet Adams, COO, SingularityNET
Dean Skurka, President and CEO, WonderFi
Clara Tsao, Founding Officer, Filecoin Foundation
Todd Shapiro, Co-Founder and CEO, Red Light Holland
Trevor Koverko, Co-Founder, Sapien
Toufi Saliba, CEO, HyperCycle.ai

This lineup showcases the caliber of content attendees can expect, with over 300 speakers set to take the spotlight across four epic stages.

Current top sponsors include Tangem Wallet, ZKDL, DeLorean Labs, Sullivan Hart, and Nexa, with additional announcements to come. Media partners such as Paul Barron Network, The Defiant, Genzio, Blockchain North, Market Across, and Melrose PR will be in participating. Conference goers can expect tons of on-site interviews and coverage throughout the two days.

Futurist Conference Miami will also feature thousands of attendees, on-site side events, multi-level expo floors, and VIP private outdoor cabanas. The experience will include a curated NFT gallery by BitBasel, showcasing both digital and physical art.

In keeping with Futurist’s Web3-native approach, attendees can purchase tickets using major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, thanks to their payment partner EukaPay. This on-chain integration reinforces the event’s commitment to the ecosystem it serves.

Less than three months remain until industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers gather in Miami. Be part of the movement, apply to speak, sponsor, or secure your tickets now.

For sponsorship: https://www.futuristconference.com/sponsorship-form
For speaking: https://www.futuristconference.com/speaker-form
For tickets: https://www.futuristconference.com/florida/ticket

XRPINU – Meme Power With a Mission

Press Release 📢

Anna Dovzhenko

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August 9, 2025

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Could XRPINU Become the Most Strategic Memecoin Since Dogecoin?

Memecoins began as a joke, but they’ve become a serious asset class. In 2021, Dogecoin briefly surpassed $88 billion in market cap. Shiba Inu followed closely behind, proving the power of community-driven momentum. Now in 2025, the memecoin sector is evolving – and XRPINU is stepping into the spotlight with more than just internet humor. It blends irony, solid tokenomics, and a roadmap that extends far beyond memes.

What Sets XRPINU Apart?

XRPINU isn’t just a parody of XRP. It’s a calculated memecoin aimed at claiming second place in the meme ecosystem – just as XRP aims to be second to Bitcoin. But unlike Dogecoin, which grew through hype and endorsements, XRPINU is engineered for both cultural impact and sustainable growth.

Its formula:

A polished brand inspired by XRP’s professional visuals
A layer of humor, irony, and cartoon crypto icons
Underlying infrastructure-presale stages, liquidity commitments, community governance, and long-term utility

This approach positions XRPINU as a hybrid of meme virality and project seriousness, reminiscent of how WallStreetBets disrupted traditional finance with a wink and a roar.

Tokenomics and Structure

Token Supply: 100 billion XRPINU
Presale Allocation: 75 billion XRPINU
Liquidity Funded: $1 million USDT

The presale is broken into 15 stages. Each stage features an increased token price to reward early supporters. Upon launch, 10 billion tokens are reserved for DEX liquidity, minimizing volatility and preventing early-stage manipulation often seen in earlier memecoins.

In contrast to Dogecoin and Shiba Inu – which experienced unstable launches-XRPINU is front-loading stability by locking liquidity and predefining token allocations.

Roadmap – Beyond Hype

Here’s a high-level look at what’s ahead:

Q3 2025 – Website and social launch, meme contests, and influencer outreach
Q4 2025 – DEX launch, liquidity lock, CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko listings
Q1 2026 – Listings on CEXs and rollout of governance systems
Q2 2026 – XRPINU Wallet launch and early utility features
Q3 2026 – Beta testing of its own blockchain infrastructure

This roadmap signals serious intent to grow from memecoin to an ecosystem project.

Community at the Core

What fuels memecoins more than anything? Community. XRPINU draws from XRP’s global supporter base and blends it with meme enthusiasts who love satire and irreverence. Expect Telegram raids, social media campaigns, and community voting.

The site and project graphics include playful renditions of crypto figures like Brad Garlinghouse and Gary Gensler, giving the project a recognizable yet ironic identity.

How to Join the Presale

Connect a compatible wallet like MetaMask to the official site
Choose your crypto (ETH, USDT, or SOL)
Make your purchase and claim tokens after the presale ends

Buying early means benefiting from lower stage prices before they increase.

Why It Matters

Dogecoin took years to gain mainstream legitimacy. XRPINU is packaging meme appeal with immediate structure and scalability. With real tokenomics, a dedicated liquidity fund, and a vision beyond jokes, XRPINU could become the model for future meme tokens. Whether you’re here for the entertainment or the upside potential, XRPINU offers more than bark-it may just deliver the bite.

>> BUY XRPINU HERE! <<

Arthur Hayes Turns Bearish: Why the Crypto Legend Is Seeing Storm Clouds Ahead

News

Anna Dovzhenko

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August 2, 2025

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Arthur Hayes Turns Bearish: Why the Crypto Legend Is Seeing Storm Clouds Ahead

Takeaways:

Arthur Hayes just dumped millions in crypto and predicts a short-term dip, with Bitcoin possibly heading to $100,000 and Ethereum to $3,000.
He blames tariffs, weak U.S. job numbers, and macroeconomic stress for his sudden flip to caution.
Hayes remains bullish long-term but signals now is a time for patience and risk management, not bravado.

If you’ve been following crypto for any length of time, you know Arthur Hayes—BitMEX co-founder, notorious risk-taker, and a guy who isn’t afraid to stake bold claims. Well, Hayes just flashed a rare “caution” sign for the crypto faithful, and honestly, people are listening.

What Set Off the Bearish Alarm?

In early August 2025, Hayes surprised everyone by offloading over $13 million in crypto assets. We’re talking big stashes of Ethereum, Pepe, and Ethena swapped out for cash just as the market started looking shaky. Hayes pointed to President Trump’s new tariffs and a disappointing U.S. jobs report as the spark—hinting that macroeconomic pain is coming, especially from trade wars and weak hiring data.

“Markets will be impacted by these tariffs and America’s worst jobs numbers in a while,” he warned. Instead of riding out the storm, he hit the sell button—a move that’s very un-Hayes, considering he’s usually the first to call for big, wild bull runs.

What’s the Big Deal With His Prediction?

Here’s where things get interesting. Despite calling for a huge Bitcoin moonshot ($250,000 by 2025), Hayes says not so fast – for the near future, he’s expecting a correction. Bitcoin, he figures, might have to brace for a drop toward $100,000 in the coming weeks or months, and Ethereum could slide down to $3,000. It doesn’t sound like a total doomsday, but for anyone who bought in at the top, it stings.

If you’re a regular investor, hearing a whale like Hayes go bearish is kind of like watching Warren Buffett sell Apple stock. Even if you don’t act, it makes you check your seatbelt.

What’s He Doing While Bearish?

Here’s what’s wild: Hayes isn’t storming off to cash entirely. He’s clear that long-term, he still thinks Bitcoin and Ethereum will soar once government money printers go into overdrive again. He even keeps a shopping list handy—ready to buy low if this sell-off gets ugly.

But for now, Hayes is talking like a trader who wants to dodge bullets. He’s suggesting there’s a pullback coming, partly driven by bad economic news and possible hits to investor confidence caused by tariffs, weak jobs data, and nervous traders all trying to get out before the herd.

Real-World Comparisons

Honestly, the whole thing reminds me of a lifeguard blowing a warning whistle at the beach—he’s not saying, “Never swim again,” just that the waves are getting rough and you might want to get out for a while.

Other big players sometimes ride out storms, but Hayes is reminding everyone that sometimes the best trade is having patience. If you’re the type who hates checking red numbers in your portfolio, maybe take Hayes’ cue and brace for some chop. If, on the other hand, you believe what he believes about money printing, there’s still time to play the long game—just maybe not this month.

Why Trust Hayes?

Like him or not, Arthur Hayes has a track record for calling both the roaring rallies and the rug pulls. His big moves and blunt warnings make him the crypto world’s weatherman—when he raises an umbrella, people notice.

Indonesia Shakes Up Crypto Tax Rules: What Just Happened?

News

Anna Dovzhenko

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July 30, 2025

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Indonesia Shakes Up Crypto Tax Rules: What Just Happened?

Takeaways

Indonesia doubled domestic crypto trading taxes to 0.21% and slapped a 1% tax on overseas platform sales while eliminating buyer VAT.
Crypto miners face a doubled VAT rate and will lose special tax treatment by 2026, potentially forcing smaller operations out of business.
The changes push traders toward regulated local exchanges while making crypto investment cheaper for buy-and-hold investors, showing how governments can use tax policy to shape crypto behaviour.

So Indonesia just completely flipped the script on crypto taxes, and honestly, it’s got everyone talking. Starting August 1st, they rewrote the playbook on how digital assets get taxed—and the changes are pretty dramatic depending on where you trade and what you do with crypto.

Let me break this down like we’re just chatting over coffee, because the official government language makes it sound way more complicated than it is.

The Big Picture Changes

Indonesia’s finance ministry dropped new tax rules that hit different parts of the crypto world in totally different ways. If you’re selling crypto on local Indonesian exchanges, your tax just doubled from 0.1% to 0.21% per transaction. Not exactly pocket change, but manageable.

But here’s where it gets interesting—if you’re using overseas platforms like Binance or Bybit, you’re now looking at a hefty 1% tax on every sale, up from just 0.2%. That’s five times higher than before. The government’s saying, “Hey, we’d prefer if you used our local exchanges, thanks.”

On the flip side, buyers actually got some good news. They scrapped the VAT (value-added tax) that used to hit crypto purchases, which was running between 0.11% and 0.22%. So if you’re just buying crypto to hold, you’re coming out ahead.

Miners Are Getting Hit Hard

Crypto miners in Indonesia are probably not thrilled right now. Their VAT rate just doubled from 1.1% to 2.2%, which is going to eat into profits pretty significantly. And starting in 2026, they’re losing their special 0.1% income tax rate—mining income will be taxed just like regular personal or corporate income.

Think about it this way: if you’re running a small mining operation from your garage, these changes might make it tough to stay profitable. The bigger operations with better efficiency and lower costs? They’ll probably be fine, but the little guys might get squeezed out.

Real-World Impact on Regular People

Let’s say you’re just a regular person in Jakarta who likes to trade a bit of Bitcoin on the weekends. If you’ve been using Binance because the fees were lower, you might want to rethink that now. That 1% tax is going to add up fast if you’re actively trading.

But if you’re more of a “buy and hold” type, the removal of buyer VAT saves you money. It’s like the government is saying, “We’re fine with you investing in crypto, but we want you to do it through our regulated local platforms.”

One crypto exchange executive I read about and compared it to how different countries handle alcohol taxes—some places tax production heavily, others focus on retail sales. Indonesia’s going after overseas trading while making it cheaper to just buy and hold locally.

Why This Matters Beyond Indonesia

This whole tax overhaul is part of Indonesia’s move to crypto regulation from their commodity regulator (Bappebti) to their financial services authority (OJK). They’re basically treating crypto more like stocks and bonds now, less like trading commodities.

What’s striking is how targeted these changes are. The government did its homework—crypto transactions in Indonesia tripled in 2024 to about $40 billion, with over 20 million users. They’re not trying to kill the crypto market; they want to control it and profit from it.

I think this shows how governments are getting smarter about crypto regulation. Instead of blanket bans or super-loose rules, they’re using tax policy as a steering wheel. Want people to use local exchanges? Make foreign ones more expensive. Want to encourage long-term investing over day trading? Remove buyer taxes but increase seller taxes.

Scammers Are Getting Smarter: AI Joins the Crypto Con Game

News

Anna Dovzhenko

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July 29, 2025

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Scammers Are Getting Smarter: AI Joins the Crypto Con Game

Takeaways:

AI is making crypto scams way more believable — including fake voices, videos, and support chats.
New investors are especially vulnerable because the scams look legit and spread fast on social media.
Slow down, question what you see, and double-check before sending crypto anywhere — it could save you big time.

You know that sinking feeling you get when something just feels… off? Like when a message pops up claiming Elon Musk is doubling Bitcoin if you send yours first—but this time, it sounds weirdly convincing? Yeah, that’s AI stepping into the scam game. And it’s making crypto fraud a whole lot scarier — and sneakier.

So, what’s happening?

Scammers have always been pretty creative, especially in the crypto world. But now, with AI tools getting better (and easier to use), they’re leveling up. We’re not just talking about shady emails or spammy YouTube ads anymore. We’re talking fake voice calls that sound like your boss, deepfake videos of crypto influencers promoting sketchy tokens, and bots that can mimic real customer support on Telegram.

It’s wild—and it’s working.

A Real Example That’ll Give You Chills

There was this one case where someone got tricked into sending funds after a video showed a well-known crypto analyst praising a new project. The video looked and sounded real—but it was completely fake. AI had cloned the guy’s face and voice. By the time anyone realized it wasn’t him, people had already sent thousands in ETH to a scam wallet.

And these deepfakes aren’t just floating around in the dark corners of the web. Some show up right on social media feeds—looking polished, professional, and believable.

It’s Not Just the Tech, It’s the Timing

What makes this even worse is that it’s happening during a time when more everyday folks are getting into crypto. They’re excited, they’re hopeful, and… well, they’re not always experienced. That’s exactly the type of person these scams are targeting.

Combine that with how fast things move in the crypto world—new projects, new tokens, constant FOMO—and you’ve got a perfect storm. Scammers know people don’t always double-check before clicking or sending. They just see the opportunity and jump.

My Two Sats (That’s Crypto Talk for Cents)

Honestly, it’s getting harder to tell what’s real and what’s AI-fueled noise. I used to think I was pretty sharp at spotting scams, but even I’ve had to pause lately and double-check voices in videos or read replies on X (Twitter) extra carefully. The tech is just that good now.

It feels like we all need to slow down a bit—not just in crypto, but in how we trust what we see online. Especially now that AI can basically throw on a mask and pretend to be anyone.

Three Experts Share How to Prepare for the Post‑GENIUS Act Crypto Era

News

Anna Dovzhenko

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July 28, 2025

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Three Experts Share How to Prepare for the Post‑GENIUS Act Crypto Era

With the passage of the landmark GENIUS Act in mid‑July, the U.S. has formalised its first federal regulatory framework for stablecoin issuance. Market leaders are calling this regulatory milestone a turning point—one that splits the crypto narrative between newfound legitimacy and structural readjustment. So what should investors do next? We asked three seasoned experts for practical guidance.

Define Your Exposure: Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana Lead the Charge

For many portfolio strategists, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana continue to be the primary beneficiaries of regulatory clarity. According to policy analysts, they function like traditional commodities: Bitcoin represents digital gold, while Ethereum and Solana serve as programmable infrastructures supporting stablecoins.

The experts generally recommend modest exposure—around 1 to 5 percent of a diversified portfolio—through regulated products like Bitcoin ETFs or crypto-native equities, including compliance-focused firms. This approach balances upside with reduced custody and compliance risk.

Don’t Ignore Regulatory Signals

The GENIUS Act requires stablecoin issuers to maintain full asset backing, undergo monthly audits, and meet anti-money laundering standards. As one financial strategist explained, these guardrails reduce uncertainty—but standards will be stiff. Not every issuer will qualify, especially smaller projects.

Investors should prioritize stablecoins from regulated and audited issuers only. Less credible tokens may lose relevance or face discontinuation if they fail to meet compliance thresholds. In short: know who you’re trusting and why.

Diversify Through Tokenization and Infrastructure Exposure

Beyond stablecoins, crypto-backed innovation continues to expand. Tokenized money-market funds, treasury instruments, staking-based yield protocols, and real‑world asset (RWA) tokenization all stand to benefit from enhanced regulatory alignment. Analysts see this as a growth vector.

One expert highlighted Goldman Sachs and BNY Mellon’s emerging initiative to tokenize traditional liquidity products using blockchain—a clear example of how regulated finance is entering digital rails. Investors may look to these developments as a bridge between crypto opportunity and financial orthodoxy.

Risks to Watch: Market Structure, Liquidity, and Macro Shocks

While regulatory clarity brings opportunity, it also carries risks. Some analysts warn of parallels to past deregulation missteps that triggered systemic crises. One concern: unlabelled regulatory arbitrage could expose retail investors or smaller issuers.

Exposure to stablecoins may also introduce implicit banking services—raising questions about treasury liquidation, token velocity, and redemption liquidity under stress. A more conservative thesis is to maintain liquidity buffers, especially in volatile environments.

Building a Balanced Strategy

Putting it all together, expert consensus emphasises:

Focus on regulated access, like crypto ETFs or public equities linked to compliant platforms.

Avoid unbacked or algorithmic stablecoins lacking transparency and regulatory alignment.

Monitor new tokenization projects and staking platforms—especially if they comply with audit and custody standards.

Set portfolio limits and avoid overexposure, particularly to volatile or untested decentralised models.

This is a moment of transition and sophistication: innovation is accelerating, but so is scrutiny.

Final Thought

The GENIUS Act’s passage may not dramatically change crypto overnight—but it does set a new tone. Investors now have a clearer roadmap for regulated exposure, legitimised stablecoins, and emerging asset innovation. The playbook has shifted: this is about long-term credibility, not short-term hype.

Kraken Embraces INK and Ink Layer-2 to Enhance On-Chain Experiences

News

Anna Dovzhenko

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July 25, 2025

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Kraken Embraces INK and Ink Layer-2 to Enhance On-Chain Experiences

Kraken is integrating INK and Ink Layer-2 to offer users faster, smoother on-chain experiences.
This step helps connect traditional crypto trading with modern decentralized finance.
It shows Kraken’s commitment to making blockchain more usable and accessible for everyone.

Kraken, one of the world’s largest and most trusted cryptocurrency exchanges, has taken a major step toward deepening its involvement in the world of decentralized finance. The exchange recently announced the integration of the INK token along with the Ink Layer-2 protocol into its platform. This move is set to unlock new, seamless on-chain experiences for its users, combining the speed and flexibility of Layer-2 networks with the reliability of Kraken’s infrastructure.

As more users explore blockchain beyond just buying and selling tokens, this integration is aimed at bridging the gap between centralized platforms and decentralized applications. Kraken’s decision to incorporate Ink Layer-2 is not just about supporting a new token—it reflects a growing trend in the industry where exchanges are actively participating in the development of on-chain utilities.

A New Era of Layer-2 Integration

The crypto ecosystem has seen significant growth in Layer-2 networks over the past few years. These protocols are designed to handle transactions off the main blockchain, or Layer-1, in order to reduce fees and increase speed. Ink Layer-2 operates in a similar manner, offering Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility and much faster transaction times.

By integrating Ink Layer-2, Kraken is offering its users access to this advanced technology directly within its platform. This makes it easier for users to interact with decentralized applications and on-chain features without needing to leave Kraken or manage multiple wallets. In essence, it streamlines the entire experience, particularly for those who are new to blockchain or find traditional DeFi platforms too complex.

What the INK Token Brings to the Table

The INK token is a key component of the Ink Layer-2 ecosystem. It functions as a utility token, powering various activities within the network. Kraken’s integration of this token means users will be able to use INK across different products and services within the exchange’s growing ecosystem.

Kraken also announced that eligible users will receive INK tokens through its Drops reward program. This initiative is expected to increase awareness and usage of the token while encouraging users to explore the on-chain functionalities that Kraken is introducing. By rewarding user engagement with a native utility token, Kraken is creating a feedback loop that supports the development of both the token and the broader ecosystem.

Building Bridges Between CeFi and DeFi

One of the most important aspects of this integration is its potential to bridge centralized finance (CeFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi). While CeFi platforms like Kraken offer ease of use, security, and customer support, DeFi offers transparency, autonomy, and a wide range of on-chain opportunities. Kraken is now bringing both worlds together in a way that benefits the user.

With Ink Layer-2 in its toolkit, Kraken users can now engage in DeFi-style activities, such as staking, interacting with smart contracts, and using decentralized applications—all while staying within the Kraken environment. This unified experience can be particularly appealing to users who want the benefits of decentralization without giving up the safety and simplicity of a centralized platform.

Why This Move Matters Now

The integration comes at a time when interest in DeFi and on-chain applications is growing again. Following a turbulent period for the broader crypto market, platforms like Kraken are investing in infrastructure that supports innovation and growth. By adopting a Layer-2 solution like Ink, Kraken is preparing for the next phase of crypto adoption, where utility, speed, and user experience matter more than ever.

This move also shows how major exchanges are no longer just passive marketplaces—they are becoming active contributors to blockchain ecosystems. Kraken is not only listing a new token; it is building a deeper technical relationship with it by enabling its full utility through a Layer-2 network.

ARK Invest Makes History with First AI-Crypto ETF Filing in the U.S.

News

Anna Dovzhenko

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July 24, 2025

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ARK Invest Makes History with First AI-Crypto ETF Filing in the U.S.

In a landmark move that reflects the rapidly growing convergence of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology, ARK Invest has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to launch the nation’s first AI-focused cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF).

The filing, submitted on July 24, 2025, proposes a passively managed index fund titled the ARK Next Generation AI + Crypto ETF, designed to track a basket of tokens that power AI-related infrastructure, decentralized machine learning, and on-chain data intelligence protocols.

If approved, this ETF would mark a significant expansion in the thematic investment landscape—offering investors exposure to what many are calling the most disruptive intersection of technologies since the rise of the internet.

What’s in the ETF?

According to ARK’s filing, the ETF will track a proprietary index comprising 20–30 cryptocurrencies across sectors such as:

Decentralized AI compute (e.g., Render Network, io.net)
Autonomous agent protocols (e.g., Fetch.ai, SingularityNET)
Data marketplaces and training pools (e.g., Ocean Protocol, Numeraire)
AI-enhanced DeFi engines (e.g., Gensyn, dClimate)
ZK-proof data verifiers with AI integrations

The weighting of assets will be algorithmically adjusted on a monthly basis using a transparent rebalancing formula that accounts for liquidity, developer activity, and on-chain AI usage metrics.

No more than 10% exposure will be allocated to any single asset, ensuring sectoral diversification. Stablecoins and meme tokens are explicitly excluded from the portfolio.

Why AI + Crypto—and Why Now?

ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood has long championed the role of innovation-driven investing. In the ETF filing, ARK states that “the convergence of decentralized compute with machine learning and generative AI models will define the infrastructure backbone of the next internet.”

The timing is significant. 2025 has seen explosive growth in crypto projects that integrate AI models for prediction markets, automated research, fraud detection, and autonomous smart contracts. Investment into this sector has soared, with over $4.2 billion in VC funding flowing into AI-blockchain startups in the first half of the year alone.

At the same time, traditional AI leaders like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google DeepMind are facing regulatory and centralization challenges—opening the door for decentralized alternatives.

ARK’s ETF aims to capture this shift by offering exposure to protocols that are decentralizing compute power, training models collaboratively, and using tokens to coordinate economic incentives across global AI ecosystems.

SEC Stance and Regulatory Landscape

The ETF filing comes just months after the SEC approved multiple spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs—signalling a softening stance toward crypto-based investment vehicles.

However, this new filing may face novel regulatory scrutiny, as it combines exposure to volatile altcoins with emerging AI applications—many of which operate in legally grey areas, particularly around data privacy, synthetic content generation, and DAO governance.

That said, legal analysts point out that ARK has structured the fund in a way that mimics existing commodity baskets, focusing on utility tokens with real infrastructure roles, rather than speculative or unregistered securities.

The proposed ETF will trade on the Cboe BZX Exchange, pending approval, and will use Coinbase Custody and Fireblocks as dual custodians to satisfy institutional-grade risk requirements.

Industry and Investor Reactions

The filing has generated immediate buzz across both the financial and crypto sectors. Within hours of the news:

FET (Fetch.ai) rose 14%
OCEAN (Ocean Protocol) jumped 11%
AGIX (SingularityNET) saw a 9% spike in volume

Crypto-native fund managers praised the move as a validation of AI’s role within Web3. Meanwhile, traditional asset managers are watching closely to see whether a successful approval opens the door for more sector-specific crypto ETFs in areas like GameFi, DePIN, and tokenized assets.

ARK’s innovation-first branding gives the firm a strategic edge in leading this charge. Having already pioneered ETFs around genomics, robotics, and fintech, its foray into AI + crypto feels like a natural evolution.

Broader Implications for Web3

Beyond investor access, the ETF could also bring much-needed institutional visibility and liquidity to niche tokens that are otherwise under-represented on major exchanges.

For AI-centric crypto projects, this means a new channel for capital inflows, increased media coverage, and legitimacy among tech-forward retail and institutional investors.

Moreover, ARK’s move signals a broader narrative shift in the crypto space—from speculative hype cycles to real-world, infrastructure-level value creation. AI-driven protocols are not just “Web3 tokens”—they’re components of a decentralized compute economy that will power finance, governance, content, and collaboration.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Thematic Crypto Investing

ARK Invest’s filing for an AI-Crypto ETF is more than a headline—it’s a signal that the next major theme in crypto investing has arrived. If approved, the fund will allow investors to access high-growth sectors of Web3 without needing to individually manage wallets, bridges, or token swaps.

More importantly, it places AI-powered crypto infrastructure on the radar of Wall Street, asset allocators, and regulators in a formal, structured way.

Whether or not the ETF is approved in its current form, one thing is clear: the era of AI x Crypto is no longer emerging—it’s accelerating.

Backed Finance’s Tokenized U.S. Equities Product Volume Jumps to $300 Million

News

Anna Dovzhenko

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July 23, 2025

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Backed Finance’s Tokenized U.S. Equities Product Volume Jumps to $300 Million

Tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) continues to gather momentum, and Backed Finance is leading the charge. The Swiss-based platform, known for offering tokenized versions of U.S. equities, has seen its product volume surge to $300 million, marking a pivotal moment in the blending of traditional finance with blockchain infrastructure.

This rapid growth underscores how investor demand for regulated, blockchain-native exposure to real-world stocks is heating up.

The Rise of Tokenized Securities

Backed Finance offers tokenized representations of popular U.S. stocks, such as Apple (bAAPL), Tesla (bTSLA), and Nvidia (bNVDA), alongside ETFs like the SPY. These assets are issued as ERC-20 tokens fully backed by their underlying equities, custodied in compliance with Swiss regulatory standards.

While the tokens can’t be redeemed by retail holders in the U.S. due to regulatory restrictions, they can be traded globally across DeFi protocols and secondary markets. For international users, they provide a way to gain access to U.S. markets without traditional broking accounts.

What makes these assets particularly attractive is their compatibility with the broader Ethereum and EVM ecosystem. Investors can provide liquidity, use them as collateral in lending protocols, or trade them peer-to-peer—all on-chain.

From Niche Product to $300 Million Milestone

When Backed launched its tokenized equity products, critics questioned the appetite. But in less than 12 months, the platform’s total value locked (TVL) and trade volume have ballooned.

Several factors contributed to this breakout:

Rising interest in RWAs, particularly among institutional DeFi users
Increased regulatory clarity in Europe, allowing compliant issuance
Integration with lending and yield protocols like Aave and Morpho Blue

Tokenized equities have also benefited from macro trends. As equity markets rallied in Q2 2025 and inflation showed signs of cooling, more investors turned to blockchain-native instruments that mirrored their TradFi holdings.

Regulatory Greenlight in Europe Helps

A major advantage for Backed is its regulatory footing. Operating under Switzerland’s DLT Act and leveraging frameworks in the European Union, it can issue and manage these tokenized products with legal backing. That’s given institutions more comfort, especially family offices and fintechs seeking to experiment with blockchain rails.

In contrast, the U.S. market remains cautious. SEC guidance on tokenized equities is still murky, and most U.S.-based platforms offering similar products have either paused operations or restricted access.

This geographic divide has helped Backed capture global market share by focusing on Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

Infrastructure for the Future

Backed’s $300 million milestone isn’t just about volume—it signals growing confidence in infrastructure that bridges TradFi and DeFi. Projects like Backed, Franklin Templeton’s BENJI, and BlackRock’s BUIDL fund show that tokenized finance is no longer theoretical.

The next step may involve programmable dividends, corporate governance rights, and broader asset classes—like real estate or bonds. Already, Backed is exploring partnerships to bring tokenized fixed income to market by Q4 2025.

DeFi protocols are watching closely. The integration of real-world assets has the potential to reshape lending markets by introducing yield sources not dependent on crypto-native leverage. Tokenized stocks could also find use in structured products, synthetic indexes, and retail robo-advisors operating entirely on-chain.

Bottom Line

The $300 million in volume isn’t just a number. It’s a sign that real-world assets—long promised but slow to arrive—are finally gaining traction in the blockchain world. And Backed Finance is at the center of this shift.

For a space often criticised for lack of real utility, tokenized equities offer a glimpse of a future where financial products are accessible, transparent, and programmable. The rails are being built—and users are beginning to arrive.