CRYPTOCURRENCY
Crypto News
The definition of a cryptocurrency is a digital asset containing cryptographic protocols that make transactions secure and immutable. Cryptocurrencies are built on top of distributed ledger technology, blockchain — which allows it to be decentralized and immune to government control and interference. Transactions involving cryptocurrencies involve public and private keys, enabling minimal processing fees, allowing users to be able to make transfers without traditional third-party institutions.
The definition of a cryptocurrency is a digital asset containing cryptographic protocols that make transactions secure and immutable. Cryptocurrencies are built on top of distributed ledger technology, blockchain — which allows it to be decentralized and immune to government control and interference. Transactions involving cryptocurrencies involve public and private keys, enabling minimal processing fees, allowing users to be able to make transfers without traditional third-party institutions.
Kraken Halts ACH Deposits and Withdrawals via Silvergate
Kraken has notified its users that it will no longer support ACH deposits and withdrawals via Silvergate starting from March 27, citing difficulties with the automated clearing house. Kraken has advised its users to use alternative funding options until ACH funding is available again.
Banking crisis could push cryptocurrency regulation into gray area
Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire believes that the ongoing global banking crisis could lead to more uncertainty and gray area in the regulation of cryptocurrencies due to market anxiety over exposure to the US financial system and the risk of a large-scale banking system failure.
Former OneCoin Executive Charged with Fraud
Irina Dilkinska, a former executive of fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme OneCoin, has been charged with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Dilkinska faces up to 40 years in prison and is accused of aiding in the laundering of over $400 million of OneCoin's proceeds.
Visa Reports Record-Breaking Cryptocurrency Thefts in 2022
Visa's biannual threat report reveals that over $3 billion was stolen in cryptocurrency thefts in 2022, with token bridges being a common target. The report also details a phishing campaign targeting crypto exchanges.
Bitzlato Partially Restores User Access
Bitzlato, a Russia-linked cryptocurrency exchange, has enabled its users to withdraw up to 50% of their assets stuck on the platform due to enforcement from the United States and Europol, with the help of a Telegram bot.
MetaMask Enables Direct Bank Transfers for Crypto Purchases in Nigeria
MetaMask, a major crypto wallet, has partnered with MoonPay to enable direct bank transfers for crypto purchases in Nigeria, allowing users to access crypto faster and cheaper without using credit or debit cards. Nigeria is a major market for MetaMask, despite current issues with crypto on-ramps in the country.
Australian Banks Ordered to Report Crypto Transactions
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has ordered local banks to report on cryptocurrency transactions amid concerns over the contagion of recent banking collapses, including that of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB). The regulator is seeking more information and insight into banking exposures to crypto assets and associated risks.
OKX to Halt Services in Canada Due to New Regulations
Cryptocurrency exchange OKX has notified its Canadian users that it will no longer provide services or allow new account openings in Canada, starting on March 24, 2023, due to new regulations. Existing Canadian customers must close open positions in options, margins, perpetual, and futures by June 22, 2023, and fiat or tokens must be withdrawn by the same date.
FTX debtors report over $4 billion in scheduled assets
FTX debtors have reported over $4 billion in scheduled assets among various company silos as of November 2022 in a filing with the United States Bankruptcy Court. The report revealed that Alameda Research held the majority of scheduled assets but had "potentially material claims that have been filed as undetermined," while the data surrounding cryptocurrency holdings or transactions was limited.
FDIC Requires Potential Buyers of Failed U.S. Banks to Give Up Crypto Services
The FDIC has asked banks interested in acquiring failed U.S. lenders, Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, to submit bids by March 17. The authority will only accept bids from banks with an existing bank charter, prioritizing traditional lenders over private equity firms. The FDIC has also required any buyer of Signature to agree to give up all cryptocurrency business at the bank. This news comes amid concerns expressed by U.S. Representative Tom Emmer that the federal government is “weaponizing” issues around the banking industry to go after crypto.