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.
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must close open positions in options, margins, perpetual, and futures by June 22, 2023, and fiat or tokens must be withdrawn by the same date.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.
Signature Bank Under Investigation by US Government Bodies
Signature Bank is reportedly under investigation by both the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Department of Justice over concerns that the bank did not take adequate measures to detect potential money laundering by its clients. The bank was closed on March 12 as part of a series of bank closures that also included Silvergate Capital and Silicon Valley Bank.
Cryptocurrency Firms Deny Exposure to Troubled US Banks
Major cryptocurrency firms, including Tether, Crypto.com, Gemini, BitMEX, and others, have denied exposure to dissolved U.S. banks like Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. The firms have taken to social media to assure their users that their funds are safe and accessible despite ongoing issues in the U.S. banking system.
Bitcoin Surges as US Inflation Rises
The price of Bitcoin surged over $26,000 as the US Department of Labor reported a 0.4% increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February 2023, with inflation rising by 6% over the last year. The cryptocurrency markets reacted positively to the news, with both Bitcoin and Ether experiencing price surges.
Cryptocurrency Community Debates Fallout from Closure of Major American Banks
The closure of three major American banks that serve cryptocurrency firms, including Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, has sparked debate within the cryptocurrency community. The closure of Silicon Valley Bank, which held over $3.3 billion of USD Coin issuer Circle's $40 billion reserves, has caused particular concern. As a result, the cryptocurrency ecosystem is now exploring neobank services and other options to bridge the gaps exposed by the latest mainstream banking failure.
Euler Finance Suffers Flash Loan Attack, Loses Millions in Multiple Cryptocurrencies
Euler Finance, an Ethereum-based noncustodial lending protocol, suffered a flash loan attack on March 13, resulting in the loss of millions in Dai, USD Coin, staked Ether, and wrapped Bitcoin. The attacker stole nearly $196 million in multiple transactions, making it the largest hack of 2023. On-chain data indicates that the attack is related to a deflation attack that occurred one month ago, and the attacker used a multichain bridge to transfer funds from the Binance Smart Chain to Ethereum.
US Federal Reserve to Create Cryptocurrency Team Amid Concerns Over Unregulated Stablecoins
The US Federal Reserve is planning to establish a specialized team of experts to keep up with developments in the cryptocurrency industry, specifically focusing on stablecoins. The move comes amid concerns that unregulated stablecoins could put households, businesses, and the broader economy at risk. While acknowledging the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies, the Federal Reserve believes that appropriate guardrails need to be in place to ensure that the benefits of innovation can be realized.