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Wirex’s new service, W-Pay, introduces a non-custodial crypto debit card service leveraging Zero-Knowledge (ZK) proofs-based technology. This service offers a new way of interacting with cryptocurrencies daily, promising swift, secure transactions, and sole control over funds. However, ongoing challenges with partnership dependencies may pose questions about the technology’s reliability.

The Institute of Risk Management (IRM) study suggests Bitcoin mining could contribute to reducing global carbon emissions by potentially reducing up to 8% of global carbon emissions by 2030, countering traditional narratives about Bitcoin’s negative environmental impact. However, the expanding energy-intensive crypto mining industry also highlights the balance needed between ecological preservation and technological progression.

BTSE, a digital assets exchange, has launched a crypto payments card allowing users to convert crypto-to-fiat for purchases online or offline across Mastercard’s network. The card, named the BTSE card, is seen as a substantial advance in practical cryptocurrency use. By supporting a variety of digital assets, it pushes the envelope towards universal crypto acceptance.

The web-based game Gods Unchained introduced a ‘Sealed Mode’, replicating traditional card games structures and rewarding skills over card collections. This attests to the convergence of traditional gaming and blockchain technology, fostering innovation in the increasingly digital sphere.

“Emurgo, a key contributor to Cardano blockchain, plans to address identified gaps within the ecosystem. The focus will be on incorporating decentralized identity (DID) solutions and layer-2 sidechains. Additionally, Emurgo explores zero-knowledge rollups and optimistic rollups, while acknowledging challenges in developer experiences due to specialized programming knowledge requirements. The outcomes of Emurgo’s efforts remain to be seen.”

At a recent gathering of local blockchain experts, the discussion revealed the potential for blockchain technology to have alleviated Nigeria’s naira shortage. Initiatives such as minting new naira notes and driving Central Bank Digital Currency adoption, the experts argued, could have been executed more effectively through a decentralized finance (DeFi) system. This would empower citizens and better prepare them for future transitions. While blockchain promises transparency, concerns about scalability and environmental impact remain.

Football fantasy game Sorare has innovated the NFT realm by introducing 3D digital football player cards supported by augmented reality (AR). These cards blur physical and digital boundaries to enhance virtual reality. Despite complexity in design scalability, Sorare sees this as an opportunity for progress.

Bulgarian platform Nexo launches a crypto Mastercard for European Economic Area (EEA) citizens to spend stablecoins globally via 100 million merchant terminals. The card also offers annual interest on stored balances, cashback, and credit line usage perks. However, Nexo recently faced legal issues in Bulgaria, raising concerns about its corporate governance. Further, earning potential is tied closely to the volatile crypto market.

“Digital monitoring, reporting, and verification (dMRV) leverages technologies like machine learning, remote sensing, satellite imagery, and blockchain for traceability and security in carbon reduction projects. Questions arise whether this method could transform voluntary carbon markets or if it’s too late for altering climate change.”

“Mastercard has initiated a unique forum for stakeholders in the crypto domain to deliberate on the issue of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). CBDCs are not the same as cryptocurrencies as they are digitized versions of existing fiat currencies backed by issuing governments. Mastercard’s CBDC alliance aims to foster groundbreaking innovations and efficiencies in the digital asset space.”

“Lamina1, a blockchain dedicated to the metaverse, has revealed its betanet platform for developers and creators. Supported by sci-fi author Neal Stephenson and crypto investor Peter Vessenes, Lamina1 aims for a digital-physical fusion, yet faces skepticism over its user-friendly, secure onboarding process. Their ultimate goal is to advance high-quality content creation, user experience, and carbon-negative infrastructure.”

U.S. crypto exchange Coinbase is set for the launch of its new Base blockchain, a ‘layer 2’ platform built on Ethereum. With $133 million already locked into the base network, Coinbase aims to promote blockchain accessibility and innovation. The firm faces regulatory and user-safety challenges, but remains committed to creating trusted experiences for users and fostering global decentralization.

“Bitcoin mining’s energy consumption has raised environmental concerns. However, recent innovations like flare gas solutions and nuclear energy are promising enhancements. Harnessing flare gas, an underused resource, for mining operations could drive a carbon-neutral era. Further potential lies in microgrids and nuclear power, despite safety and regulatory concerns. All these seek to incentivize blockchain use beyond Bitcoin mining, significantly reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.”

“Cardano network activity has surged, reflected by a rise in transactions and technical improvements. Despite a dip in active daily users, the ratio of transactions to active addresses is increasing, implying more active users. Key upgrades, including provision for Ethereum Virtual Machine smart contracts, could potentially boost token prices and expand the Cardano ecosystem’s utility.”