Crypto Assets as Securities and Evolving Regulations: The Future of EU and Global Markets

A study commissioned by the European Parliament suggests that crypto assets may soon be treated as securities by default, based on the EU’s existing financial regulation framework. This move could lead to a more stringent regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies in the EU. Meanwhile, cross-compatibility of blockchain addresses gains momentum, and Gemini plans to acquire a crypto license in the UAE.

Temasek Penalizes Team for FTX Investment Debacle: A Tale of Reputational Damage and Crypto Risks

Temasek faces punitive measures over its $275 million investment in controversial exchange FTX, reducing salaries of involved team members despite no misconduct found. FTX’s “fraudulent” activity allegedly “intentionally hidden” has negatively impacted Temasek’s reputation, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the cryptocurrency world.

WEF Offers Solutions for Global Crypto Regulation Disparities: Pros, Cons and Conflicts

The World Economic Forum (WEF) proposes solutions to address disparities in global crypto policies in a white paper, aiming to better protect markets and investors. Recommendations target international organizations, regulators, and the industry, including establishing best practices, harmonizing terminology, fostering cross-sector coordination, and responsible innovation.

Hong Kong Crypto Expansion vs China’s Censorship: Who Wins This Battle?

Hong Kong regulators finalize virtual asset trading preparations, allowing exchanges to provide services to retail investors. Crypto exchange Gate.io launches its Gate.HK platform, while ZA Bank plans to offer virtual asset trading under the new licensing regime. In contrast, Terraform Labs CEO Do Kwon faces imprisonment, and memecoins’ prices fall over 50% in two weeks, highlighting their short-term hype-driven value.

Revolut’s License Woes & ASX Ditches Blockchain: Debating Innovation vs Stability

The Bank of England may reject Revolut’s banking license due to balance sheet concerns, while ASX Ltd opts for a conventional technology for its software overhaul instead of blockchain. HashKey Group plans to raise funds at a $1 billion valuation, and Grayscale exploits a potential loophole with a new Bitcoin ETF filing. Ledger’s controversial service launch is deemed a PR failure, and Bit Digital moves operations to Iceland for regulatory risk mitigation. Researchers suggest CBDC systems can be used for cross-border payments, and Switzerland’s canton of Zug raises the limit for tax payments in BTC and ETH.

Whampoa Group’s Digital Bank in Bahrain: Innovating Finance or Destabilizing Tradition?

Singapore-based Whampoa Group plans to launch a digital bank in Bahrain, offering services such as digital asset trading, custody, and management. With backing from influential families and Bahrain’s Central Bank’s conditional approval, this development signals a push toward financial innovation, accessibility, and the growing adoption of digital banking services.

First State-Owned Chinese Company Applies for Hong Kong Crypto License: Pros, Cons, and Impact

Greenland Financial Technology Group, a subsidiary of Greenland Holdings, becomes the first state-owned Chinese company to apply for a virtual asset trading license in Hong Kong, with plans to establish a dedicated company for virtual asset trading, including cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and carbon emission-related products. This move signifies the significant potential of Hong Kong’s virtual asset market and its potential as a global crypto hub.