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Starbucks is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Pumpkin Spice Latte with non-fungible token (NFT) collectibles through its web3 rewards platform, Starbucks Odyssey. These NFTs, named “The PSL Collection: Spiced Stamp,” exhibit a unique merger of blockchain tech and customer loyalty programs, indicating the potential future of blockchain technology in the world of big brands.

The South Korean central bank, BOK, is advancing towards a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) pilot, scheduled for late 2024. By testing a wholesale CBDC model first, it aims to streamline inter-bank settlements while preparing for retail use. The bank collaborates with domestic institutions and international bodies like the BIS, though it remains undecided on fully endorsing a digital won.

Despite decreased interest in the metaverse, Neal Stephenson’s Blockchain project, Lamina1, continues its vision, organizing events to encourage metaverse-driven experiences. CEO Rebecca Barkin expresses optimism, noting the continued investment in digital experiences, gaming, and new technological explorations.

MoneyGram, a global payment processing giant, plans to launch non-custodial crypto wallets by Q1 2024, leveraging the Stellar network. The wallet promises no processing fees till June 2024 and includes transaction safety measures. However, the single network operation and reliance on centralized compliance screenings could face potential drawbacks and privacy threats.

The Arbitrum Foundation recently transferred 69 million unclaimed ARB tokens to its treasury, amounting to $59 million and boosting it to nearly $3 billion in governance tokens. This successful move was through a vote proposed by a community member, demonstrating the impact of community engagement and decentralized operations. Meanwhile, Arbitrum’s user activity is growing along with efforts to expand the NFT space on its network.

This article discusses speculation around Hal Finney’s involvement in creating Bitcoin, his use of zero-knowledge proof systems, and rumors of him being Satoshi Nakamoto. The mystery of Bitcoin’s creation and Finney’s role remains ambiguous and unsolved.

“Machiavellian principles are seen as a potential solution for issues concerning decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) such as power centralization, according to venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz. DAOs must balance power, entertain constant opposition, and adopt lockup mechanisms for stakeholders to achieve effective decentralized governance.”

A rediscovered video of early Bitcoin pioneer, Hal Finney, discussing zero-knowledge proofs, a cryptographic principle now integral to blockchain technology, provides insight into the early workings of Bitcoin and Satoshi Nakamoto. Finney’s contribution to privacy-enhancing technologies, including the anonymous email system and Proof of Work system, underpin today’s blockchain infrastructure.

AI startup Helisng, focused on developing AI-powered solutions for military use, has raised $223 million in Series B funding, led by General Catalyst and Saab. This funding is set to boost their goal of furthering AI technology for protecting democratic nations. Meanwhile, the proliferation of AI technology sparks discussions on job displacement and ethical issues surrounding its application, particularly in warfare.

A pivotal upgrade known as the Merge transitioned Ethereum from a proof-of-work (PoW) consensus mechanism to a proof-of-stake (PoS), causing a net supply decrease of 299,922.50 ether. The PoS mechanism needs users to hold ether to validate transactions and earn rewards. This eliminated much miner supply and made Ethereum more eco-friendly. However, despite these changes, ether’s market values have stagnated.

“SSV.network, in partnership with the Ethereum Foundation, recently launched its mainnet aiming to decentralize Ethereum staking pools. Leveraging Distributed Validator Technology, it aims to increase validator resilience, enhance private key security, and minimize the risks of validator downtime.”