Search Results for: Custodia

The Berlin-based cryptocurrency firm Finoa is launching FinoaConnect, a proprietary wallet integration allowing its clients to access handpicked decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms and web3 applications. This development aims to reframe the relationship between DeFi and regulatory institutions, offering a secure, regulated solution for institutional investors keen to engage with these technologies.

Congressman Tom Emmer plans to introduce an amendment to minimize SEC’s crypto oversight, highlighting overreach by chairman Gary Gensler. Emmer emphasizes the need to cease enforcing funds for digital assets until clear regulations are defined, reducing unnecessary compliance burdens and promoting innovation. However, the lack of concrete crypto regulation poses risks and challenges. Balancing regulation and protection of investors’ interests is paramount in propelling the crypto realm forward.

“The Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) decision on approving a Bitcoin ETF continues to stir anticipation. An approval may validate crypto in the US and offer easy Bitcoin exposure to investors. However, it contradicts the crypto industry’s premise of independence from traditional finance, and carries counterparty risks and potential network hard fork issues. Retaining Bitcoin’s unique value and security is paramount.”

“Cboe’s BZX exchange is preparing for a historical first with the potential launch of the U.S.’s maiden spot ether exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The SEC’s approval of such a move would mark a new era of crypto trading, including on-the-spot ether exchanges via ETFs. The decision may reshape the financial landscape, creating a new entry point for traditional investors into the realm of digital currency.”

Amid delays from the SEC on Ark Invest’s spot Bitcoin ETF, Ark Invest and 21Shares have proposed an investment vehicle with Ether exposure, using Coinbase as the custodian. The proposal joins several crypto ETFs awaiting SEC scrutiny. The SEC’s upcoming November decision could have significant implications for the crypto market. Despite the uncertainty, there’s an optimistic sentiment within the crypto markets.

South Korea’s KEB Hana Bank partners with BitGo, a leader in crypto custody and security, to offer digital asset custody services from 2024. The partnership is expected to enhance consumer protection and trust in South Korea’s digital asset market and improve the quality of Hana Bank’s digital asset custody operations. The collaboration also aims to capitalize on blockchain security technology, backed by BitGo’s recent funding of $100 million.

“A federal appeals court directive for the SEC to reassess its dismissal of Grayscale Investments’ motion to modify Grayscale Bitcoin Trust into an ETF led to Bitcoin’s surge on the market. This legal success could introduce a spot Bitcoin ETF in the U.S., encouraging broader public participation in Bitcoin investment while avoiding complexity and custodial concerns. This could lead to a more inclusive crypto market while raising concerns about possible regulatory inconsistencies.”

South Korean crypto exchanges like Upbit and Bithumb are mandated to uphold a reserve fund of at least 3 billion won to enhance user security. This evolved regulatory measure, part of the “Virtual Asset Real-Name Account Operation Guidelines,” aims to address potential risk events. Limits are set on these reserves to ensure financial stability. The regulations also aim to strengthen KYC processes and optimize fund transfer rules. Despite these measures promising a more secure experience, concerns arise for smaller exchanges possibly facing unsustainable financial burdens.

Bitstamp calls an end to staking services in the U.S., driven by the country’s stringent regulatory landscape. Conversely, the ether Liquid Staking Derivatives market shows potential for growth, expecting to grow to $24 billion in two years, highlighting the contrasting effect of regulatory environments on cryptocurrency ventures.

“The European Parliament has passed a bill allowing banks to hold up to two percent of their capital in cryptocurrencies from January 2025, signaling evolution in global cryptocurrency regulation. However, Stefan Rust, ex-CEO of Bitcoin.com, views the bill as favoring financial institutions more than common investors.”

Crypto policy experts at Coin Center are advocating for a better tax policy for digital assets. They propose a nominal exemption for small crypto transactions, no tax on block rewards until sold, and simpler methods for determining cryptocurrency donation amounts. They also emphasize the need for tax policy clarity for third-party non-custodial intermediaries in digital asset transactions.