Precious Metals Soar as Global Markets React to Rising Tensions
Labor market data suggests no early-year interest rate cuts are likely. Precious metals, like gold and silver, surge amid geopolitical tensions. Continue Reading: Precious Metals Soar as Global Markets React to Rising Tensions The post Precious Metals Soar as Global Markets React to Rising Tensions appeared first on COINTURK NEWS .
Aptos Futures Breakthrough: Bitnomial’s Pioneering Regulated Product Transforms US Crypto Derivatives Landscape
BitcoinWorld Aptos Futures Breakthrough: Bitnomial’s Pioneering Regulated Product Transforms US Crypto Derivatives Landscape Chicago-based derivatives exchange Bitnomial makes cryptocurrency history by launching the first regulated Aptos (APT) futures product in the United States, fundamentally expanding institutional access to innovative blockchain derivatives. This groundbreaking development, reported by The Block on November 15, 2024, represents a significant milestone for both regulated crypto markets and the Aptos ecosystem. Consequently, institutional investors gain their first regulated vehicle to hedge and speculate on APT price movements. Moreover, this launch signals growing regulatory acceptance for novel blockchain assets within traditional financial frameworks. Bitnomial’s Regulated Aptos Futures Launch Details Bitnomial’s new Aptos futures product will initially target institutional investors exclusively. The Chicago-based exchange plans subsequent availability through its retail subsidiary platform, Botanical. As the first crypto-native spot and derivatives exchange with full U.S. regulatory clearance, Bitnomial operates under Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversight. Therefore, this product launch follows extensive regulatory review and compliance verification. The exchange currently supports Bitcoin futures and options alongside its spot trading services. Additionally, Bitnomial maintains direct clearing capabilities through its registered clearinghouse, reducing counterparty risk for participants. This institutional-first approach mirrors traditional derivatives market development patterns. Initially, sophisticated market participants establish liquidity and pricing mechanisms. Subsequently, retail platforms like Botanical can offer the product with appropriate safeguards. The Aptos futures contract specifications include standardized settlement terms and margin requirements. Furthermore, Bitnomial employs robust risk management protocols aligned with CFTC standards. These measures ensure market integrity while preventing excessive volatility. The exchange also implements surveillance systems monitoring for manipulation and abusive trading practices. Aptos Blockchain and Market Context Aptos represents a Layer-1 blockchain developed by former Meta (Facebook) engineers using the Move programming language. The network emphasizes security, scalability, and reliability through its parallel execution engine. Since its mainnet launch in October 2022, Aptos has attracted significant developer interest and institutional backing. Major venture capital firms including Andreessen Horowitz and Multicoin Capital invested heavily in the ecosystem. Consequently, the APT token achieved substantial market capitalization despite broader crypto market volatility. The blockchain’s technical architecture enables high transaction throughput exceeding 150,000 transactions per second in test environments. This performance advantage positions Aptos as potential infrastructure for mass adoption applications. Currently, the network hosts decentralized finance protocols, gaming platforms, and non-fungible token marketplaces. However, until Bitnomial’s announcement, U.S. investors lacked regulated derivatives exposure to APT price movements. Previously, traders relied on offshore exchanges or over-the-counter markets with higher counterparty risks. Now, regulated futures provide price discovery and hedging mechanisms previously unavailable. Regulatory Landscape for Crypto Derivatives The U.S. derivatives market operates under stringent CFTC regulation established by the Commodity Exchange Act. Crypto derivatives faced regulatory uncertainty for years following the 2017 Bitcoin futures launch. However, recent court decisions and regulatory guidance have clarified jurisdictional boundaries. The Securities and Exchange Commission typically oversees security tokens, while the CFTC regulates commodity-based crypto derivatives. Aptos futures qualify as commodity derivatives since APT tokens demonstrate characteristics similar to established commodities like Bitcoin. Bitnomial secured its derivatives clearing organization registration in 2020 after extensive regulatory review. This registration enables the exchange to self-clear futures contracts, reducing operational dependencies. The CFTC’s regulatory framework requires daily position reporting, capital requirements, and customer protection measures. Additionally, Bitnomial must maintain segregation between customer funds and operational capital. These protections distinguish regulated U.S. derivatives from offshore alternatives. Meanwhile, the exchange’s compliance demonstrates maturing institutional infrastructure for digital assets. Institutional Adoption Implications Regulated Aptos futures provide institutional investors with crucial risk management tools. Hedge funds, proprietary trading firms, and asset managers can now implement sophisticated trading strategies. These strategies include basis trading, volatility arbitrage, and portfolio hedging. Previously, institutions faced regulatory constraints when accessing APT exposure through unregulated venues. Now, compliance departments can approve trading through CFTC-regulated platforms. This accessibility potentially increases institutional capital allocation to the Aptos ecosystem. The product launch also enhances price discovery mechanisms for the broader APT market. Futures markets typically lead spot markets in establishing forward price expectations. Consequently, APT spot prices may demonstrate reduced volatility with futures-based hedging availability. Furthermore, institutional participation often increases market depth and liquidity. These improvements benefit all market participants through tighter bid-ask spreads. However, futures introduction sometimes correlates with increased short-term volatility during initial trading phases. Bitnomial’s risk controls aim to mitigate such transitional effects. Comparative Analysis with Existing Products Bitnomial’s Aptos futures represent the seventh cryptocurrency derivatives product available on regulated U.S. exchanges. Currently, CME Group offers Bitcoin and Ethereum futures alongside micro contracts. Additionally, the exchange provides options on Bitcoin futures. Meanwhile, Bakkt (Intercontinental Exchange) lists physically-settled Bitcoin futures. However, no U.S. exchange previously offered Aptos derivatives despite growing market demand. Offshore exchanges including Binance, Bybit, and OKX provide APT perpetual swaps and quarterly futures. These products lack U.S. regulatory oversight and corresponding investor protections. U.S. Regulated Crypto Derivatives Comparison Exchange Products Settlement Minimum Size CME Group BTC/ETH Futures & Options Cash 5 BTC / 50 ETH Bakkt BTC Futures Physical 1 BTC Bitnomial BTC Futures/Options, APT Futures Cash Variable Bitnomial’s product differentiation includes smaller contract sizes potentially appealing to mid-sized institutions. The exchange also emphasizes user experience through its proprietary trading interface. Moreover, Bitnomial’s clearing model reduces settlement latency compared to third-party clearing arrangements. These technical advantages complement the regulatory protections inherent to CFTC oversight. Consequently, the exchange positions itself as the premier venue for emerging crypto derivatives. Market Impact and Future Developments The Aptos futures launch signals accelerating institutionalization of cryptocurrency markets. Regulatory acceptance for newer blockchain assets demonstrates maturing industry frameworks. Furthermore, this development may encourage other exchanges to pursue similar product approvals. Potential candidates include Solana, Avalanche, and Polygon derivatives. However, each asset requires individual regulatory assessment regarding commodity classification. The CFTC evaluates multiple factors including decentralization, use cases, and trading history. Bitnomial’s retail expansion through Botanical represents the next implementation phase. Retail investors will eventually access Aptos futures with appropriate risk disclosures and position limits. The subsidiary platform already offers Bitcoin derivatives to retail customers under Bitnomial’s regulatory umbrella. This dual-track approach serves both institutional and retail market segments effectively. Meanwhile, the exchange continues developing additional cryptocurrency derivatives products. Future launches may include options on Aptos futures or volatility products based on APT price movements. The broader Aptos ecosystem benefits from increased visibility and legitimacy. Developers building on the blockchain gain assurance regarding institutional market infrastructure. This assurance potentially attracts additional projects and users to the network. Moreover, regulated derivatives availability may influence corporate treasury decisions regarding APT holdings. Companies can now hedge APT exposure through regulated channels rather than maintaining unhedged positions. These risk management capabilities support broader enterprise adoption of blockchain technologies. Conclusion Bitnomial’s launch of regulated Aptos futures represents a transformative development for U.S. cryptocurrency markets. The product provides institutional investors with their first regulated exposure vehicle for APT price movements. Furthermore, this development demonstrates regulatory progress for newer blockchain assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. The Chicago-based exchange leverages its unique regulatory status as a crypto-native clearinghouse to innovate responsibly. Consequently, market participants gain sophisticated tools while maintaining investor protections. As cryptocurrency derivatives evolve, Bitnomial’s Aptos futures establish important precedents for institutional adoption and regulatory compliance. FAQs Q1: When will Bitnomial’s Aptos futures begin trading? Bitnomial has announced the product launch but hasn’t disclosed specific trading commencement dates. The exchange typically provides several weeks’ notice before new product activation to allow participant preparation. Q2: Can retail investors trade Aptos futures immediately? Initially, Aptos futures will only trade through Bitnomial’s institutional platform. Retail access will follow through the Botanical subsidiary platform after institutional liquidity establishment. Q3: How do Aptos futures differ from offshore perpetual swaps? Regulated futures have fixed expiration dates and settle daily, while perpetual swaps lack expiration but charge funding rates. U.S. regulation provides investor protections absent from offshore venues. Q4: What regulatory body oversees Bitnomial’s derivatives products? The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) regulates all cryptocurrency derivatives trading on U.S. exchanges including Bitnomial’s Aptos futures. Q5: Will Aptos futures be physically or cash settled? Bitnomial typically employs cash settlement for its cryptocurrency derivatives products, meaning traders receive or pay cash differences rather than actual APT tokens. This post Aptos Futures Breakthrough: Bitnomial’s Pioneering Regulated Product Transforms US Crypto Derivatives Landscape first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
Polymarket trader makes $330k in a day predicting sports results
A newly registered trader on Polymarket , one of the most widely used online cryptocurrency prediction market websites, has managed to turn a nearly $330,000 profit in a single day. Going by the name of NBA101 , the trader has made 48 predictions since they joined earlier this month, most of them sports -related. The latest was an $82,000 bet on Sacramento Kings vs. Los Angeles Lakers on January 13, which turned a 312% profit of approximately $256,500 for a total win of more or less $338,000 when the Sacramento team beat the L.A.-based rival 124:112. Adjusting for a nearly $9,000 daily loss on other positions, the figure came out at precisely $329,931.27 at press time. NBA101 ’s Polymarket profile. Source: Polymarket NBA101’s other sports bets While yesterday’s Kings game was NBA101 ’s most profitable bet, it is by no means their only high-stakes play. For instance, the trader has also placed a $116,000 bet on the last Timberwolves vs. Bucks game, which also ended favorably for NBA101 , with a total win of almost $261,000. Similarly, the user had another $116,000 position on Hawks vs. Lakers, for which they stand to win $275,000. With the most recent win, NBA101 ’s overall winnings have climbed to about $763,700, leaving social media wondering what kind of luck they are going to have in other markets. Featured image via Shutterstock The post Polymarket trader makes $330k in a day predicting sports results appeared first on Finbold .
Bybit Pay Bring Crypto Payments to Peru’s Most Popular Digital Wallets, Yape and Plin
BitcoinWorld Bybit Pay Bring Crypto Payments to Peru’s Most Popular Digital Wallets, Yape and Plin DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit , the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, announced the launch of Bybit Pay in Peru through seamless integration with two of the country’s most popular digital payment platforms: Yape and Plin . This expansion brings real-world crypto payment capabilities to millions of Peruvian digital wallet users, marking another milestone in bridging traditional finance with the digital economy in Latin America. Empowering Peru’s Digital-First Economy Peru’s digital wallet adoption has surged in recent years, with Yape and Plin each serving approximately 14 million users in 2024. Bybit Pay ‘s latest integration enables Peruvian consumers to use their existing Yape QR codes and Plin phone-number transfers to make cryptocurrency-backed payments both online and at local merchants, combining the familiarity of Peru’s most trusted payment methods with the innovation of digital assets. This partnership positions Bybit Pay at the heart of Peru’s rapidly evolving cashless economy, where Yape handled 54% of in-person transactions and PLIN 34% in 2024. Research showed over half of the adult population in Peru use phone-based digital wallets. Building on Yape’s and Plin’s vast local networks, Bybit Pay users in Peru can now: Pay with QR Codes : Use existing Yape QR codes to make instant cryptocurrency payments at participating merchants nationwide Transfer Money by Phone Number : Execute secure Plin phone-number transfers backed by cryptocurrency holdings Shop with Digital Assets : Access payments at both e-commerce platforms and physical retail locations Enjoy Fast Settlement : Benefit from near-instant transaction confirmation with enhanced security In Peru, the platform supports multiple cryptocurrencies including USDT, USDC, BTC, ETH, and other major digital assets, automatically converting them for seamless Peruvian Sol (PEN) transactions. To celebrate the launch, Bybit Pay is offering unprecedented rewards for users in Peru: New User Exclusive: On top of other welcome bonuses, new users who successfully sign up for Bybit Pay can get a 50% discount coupon on their first QR code or phone-number transfer payment. Current User Benefits: Existing Bybit Pay users can earn 2–10% cashback on every QR or phone-number transfer payment “By integrating with mainstream payment methods Peruvians already know and trust, Bybit Pay is removing barriers to digital asset adoption and making crypto genuinely useful for everyday transactions,” said Patricio Mesri, CEO of Bybit LATAM . “Peru represents one of Latin America’s most dynamic digital payment markets, and we are proud to be building the infrastructure for financial innovation and inclusion together with our partners.” Bybit Pay has been making headway in Central and Latin America through partnerships with leading local institutions and payment infrastructure providers from Brazil to Argentina . To learn more about how to use Bybit Pay, users may visit: How to Make Payment with QR Pay using Bybit Pay Bybit Pay currently serves global users who have successfully completed Identity Verification on Bybit. Users from Service Restricted Countries or local Bybit entities are not currently supported. For the latest updates and detailed terms and conditions, users may refer to the Bybit Pay official page . #Bybit / #CryptoArk About Bybit Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 80 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com . For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube This post Bybit Pay Bring Crypto Payments to Peru’s Most Popular Digital Wallets, Yape and Plin first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
Pundit Says Big Week for Crypto and Even Bigger for XRP. Here’s why
Crypto commentator X Finance Bull (@Xfinancebull) shared a video this week highlighting significant moves in U.S. crypto regulation and their potential impact on XRP. The video features SEC Chair Paul Atkins discussing recent congressional efforts to bring clarity to the crypto market. According to X Finance Bull, these developments position XRP to benefit immediately from the new regulatory landscape. BOOM Big week for crypto and even bigger for $XRP ! Congress is locking in laws that mirror Ripple’s court win Stablecoins, tokenization, XRP settlement rails now backed by statute No more gray zone. Clarity changes everything We're built for this moment LFG $XRP pic.twitter.com/oWsNoLd5bO — X Finance Bull (@Xfinancebull) January 13, 2026 Congress Establishes Clear Rules Atkins drew attention to the Genius Act that Congress passed and the President signed in 2025. He described it as “the first statute that the United States government has adopted to recognize a crypto asset.” This legislation provided formal recognition for digital assets and offered guidance on stablecoins. He explained that the current congressional effort builds on that work. “Now comes the next step. Good bipartisan effort by both houses of Congress to bring certainty to the market structure regarding cryptocurrencies,” Atkins said. The comments highlight the U.S. government’s focus on making clear legal frameworks for the crypto industry. Legislation Supports Market Certainty Atkins linked regulatory clarity to market certainty. “If you have clear legislation and clear rules, then you have certainty in the marketplace,” he said. For XRP, this matters because the asset was suppressed for years due to regulatory ambiguity. While XRP has received legal clarity, clear rules will help the broader market and reduce risk for businesses and investors using digital assets for payments, settlements, and tokenization. He further expressed confidence in the impact of upcoming legislation, like the Clarity Act. “We are very bullish on the effects of a bill getting to the President to be signed this year,” Atkins said. The statement signals optimism that the regulatory environment will strengthen market confidence and encourage the adoption of digital assets, such as XRP. We are on X, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) June 15, 2025 What’s Next for the Crypto Market? The Clarity Act defines how digital assets are regulated in the U.S., assigning clear roles to the SEC and CFTC. XRP benefits because its settlement network can now operate under defined rules, further reducing uncertainty. Clear regulation encourages adoption, investor confidence, and broader use of crypto. Stablecoins, tokenized assets, and exchanges also gain a legal path forward. According to X Finance Bull, XRP is well-positioned to take advantage of the new regulatory environment. The combination of a clear statutory framework and bipartisan congressional support sets the stage for broader adoption. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are advised to conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on X , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Pundit Says Big Week for Crypto and Even Bigger for XRP. Here’s why appeared first on Times Tabloid .
Crossmint CASP License: Spain’s Strategic Move Empowers EU-Wide Web3 Expansion
BitcoinWorld Crossmint CASP License: Spain’s Strategic Move Empowers EU-Wide Web3 Expansion MADRID, SPAIN – In a landmark regulatory development, Web3 infrastructure provider Crossmint has secured a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) license from Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV), fundamentally reshaping the European digital asset landscape. This authorization, certified under the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation framework, grants Crossmint immediate operational rights across all 27 EU member states. Consequently, the company now positions itself as a pivotal infrastructure player for stablecoin services, fiat-to-crypto exchanges, and cross-blockchain transfers throughout the unified European market. Crossmint CASP License: A Regulatory Milestone for Web3 The Spanish CNMV’s approval represents more than just corporate authorization. Indeed, it signifies Spain’s proactive stance in embracing MiCA’s harmonized regulatory approach. Furthermore, this license enables Crossmint to offer a comprehensive suite of regulated services that previously operated in regulatory gray areas across various jurisdictions. The company can now legally provide: Fiat-to-crypto exchange services with full banking integration Cryptocurrency custody solutions meeting EU security standards Digital wallet infrastructure for institutional and retail users Cross-blockchain asset transfers between different protocols Stablecoin issuance and management infrastructure Industry analysts immediately recognized the strategic importance of this development. According to regulatory compliance databases, Crossmint becomes one of the first Web3 infrastructure firms to obtain a MiCA-certified CASP license through Spain’s regulatory pathway. This achievement follows months of rigorous compliance assessments and technical audits by Spanish authorities. MiCA Regulation Implementation Timeline and Impacts The European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation, finalized in 2023, establishes a comprehensive framework for crypto-asset markets across member states. MiCA’s implementation occurs in phases, with the stablecoin provisions taking effect in June 2024 and remaining CASP requirements applying from December 2024. Crossmint’s early 2025 license acquisition demonstrates forward-looking regulatory preparation. MiCA Implementation Timeline and Key Provisions Date Regulatory Milestone Impact on CASPs June 2024 Stablecoin provisions active Strict requirements for asset-referenced tokens December 2024 Full MiCA framework applicable CASP licensing requirements enforced EU-wide January 2025 National implementation deadlines Member states must have domestic frameworks Present Crossmint license approval Early compliance advantage in EU market Spain’s regulatory authorities have positioned the country as an early adopter of MiCA’s provisions. The CNMV established specialized crypto-asset divisions in 2023, allocating significant resources to develop expertise in blockchain technology assessment. This institutional preparation enabled efficient evaluation of Crossmint’s technical infrastructure and compliance systems. Expert Analysis: Regulatory Arbitrage and Market Dynamics Financial regulation specialists observe strategic considerations behind Crossmint’s Spanish licensing approach. Dr. Elena Vargas, Professor of Digital Finance at IE Business School, explains the regulatory landscape: “Spain’s implementation of MiCA creates an attractive jurisdiction for Web3 firms. The CNMV developed clear technical guidelines while maintaining robust consumer protection standards. Consequently, companies obtaining Spanish CASP licenses gain passporting rights to operate across Europe with a single regulatory approval.” This regulatory passporting mechanism represents a fundamental advantage under MiCA. Once a company receives authorization in one member state, it can provide services throughout the EU without additional national approvals. Therefore, Crossmint’s Spanish license effectively serves as a European Union-wide operating permit for its Web3 infrastructure services. Technical Infrastructure and Security Implications Crossmint’s licensing achievement required demonstrating advanced technical capabilities meeting MiCA’s stringent requirements. The company’s infrastructure underwent comprehensive security audits covering multiple critical areas. These assessments verified robust protection mechanisms for user assets and data privacy compliance with GDPR standards. The CASP license specifically authorizes Crossmint’s proprietary wallet infrastructure, which supports multi-chain asset management. This technology enables seamless transfers between different blockchain networks while maintaining regulatory compliance throughout transaction processes. Additionally, the company’s custody solutions implement institutional-grade security protocols exceeding minimum regulatory requirements. Market data indicates growing institutional demand for regulated crypto infrastructure. A 2024 European Central Bank survey revealed that 68% of financial institutions cite regulatory clarity as their primary concern regarding digital asset adoption. Crossmint’s licensed status directly addresses this institutional hesitation by providing compliant access to Web3 technologies. Competitive Landscape and Market Positioning The European Web3 infrastructure market experiences increasing competition as MiCA implementation progresses. Crossmint’s early licensing provides significant first-mover advantages in several service categories. The company now competes directly with traditional financial institutions expanding into digital assets and other licensed crypto service providers. Comparative analysis reveals Crossmint’s distinctive positioning. Unlike exchange-focused platforms, the company emphasizes infrastructure services for other businesses. This B2B approach targets enterprises seeking to integrate Web3 capabilities without developing proprietary regulatory compliance systems. The licensed services particularly appeal to: Traditional banks exploring digital asset offerings E-commerce platforms considering crypto payment options Gaming companies implementing blockchain economies Enterprise software providers adding Web3 features Market projections suggest substantial growth potential for regulated Web3 infrastructure. Research firm Digital Asset Analytics forecasts the European market reaching €45 billion by 2026, representing a compound annual growth rate of 28% from 2024 levels. Licensed service providers like Crossmint stand to capture significant portions of this expanding market segment. Conclusion Crossmint’s acquisition of a Spanish CASP license under MiCA regulations marks a pivotal moment for European Web3 development. The authorization enables secure, regulated digital asset services across all EU member states through a single regulatory approval. This achievement demonstrates Spain’s progressive regulatory approach while providing Crossmint with substantial competitive advantages in the evolving European digital economy. As MiCA implementation continues, early adopters of compliant infrastructure will likely shape the continent’s Web3 landscape for years to come. The Crossmint CASP license represents both a corporate milestone and a broader indicator of Europe’s maturing regulatory framework for crypto-assets. FAQs Q1: What exactly is a CASP license under MiCA? A CASP (Crypto-Asset Service Provider) license authorizes companies to offer specific digital asset services within the European Union. MiCA establishes uniform requirements across all member states, creating a harmonized regulatory framework. Q2: Why did Crossmint obtain its license through Spain specifically? Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV) developed early expertise in MiCA implementation. The Spanish license provides passporting rights to operate throughout the EU, making it strategically efficient for pan-European expansion. Q3: How does this license benefit Crossmint’s clients and users? The license ensures regulatory compliance, enhanced security standards, and legal certainty for all services. Users benefit from stronger consumer protections and institutional-grade infrastructure meeting EU financial regulations. Q4: What services can Crossmint now offer across the EU? The authorization covers fiat-to-crypto exchanges, cryptocurrency custody, digital wallet infrastructure, cross-blockchain transfers, and stablecoin-related services throughout all 27 member states. Q5: How does MiCA change the European crypto landscape? MiCA creates uniform rules across the EU, replacing fragmented national regulations. This harmonization reduces compliance complexity while establishing consistent consumer protections and operational standards throughout the single market. This post Crossmint CASP License: Spain’s Strategic Move Empowers EU-Wide Web3 Expansion first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
Trade Futures, Win Razer Gear: New BitDegree Mission Goes Live
The latest BitDegree Mission, titled Trade Your Way to Razer Elite Gear With BYDFi , is now live .
Fors Launches Beta to Aggregate Prediction Markets Across Solana Ecosystem
Be'er Sheva, Israel, January 13th, 2026, Chainwire Fors , a prediction market aggregation platform built on Solana, today announced the release of its beta version, designed to address fragmentation and inefficiencies across modern prediction markets. Prediction markets covering multiple categories, including politics, sports, macroeconomic events, cryptocurrencies, and global developments, have expanded rapidly in recent years. However, market data, liquidity, and pricing remain fragmented across isolated platforms, making it difficult for participants to compare outcomes and identify inefficiencies efficiently. Fors addresses this challenge by aggregating multiple prediction venues into a single, unified interface. The platform normalizes probabilities, pricing, and liquidity, allowing users to compare identical outcomes side by side across different markets. Built on Solana, Fors leverages high-performance infrastructure to support real-time aggregation and low-latency data processing. The platform is also developing smart order routing capabilities designed to direct trades toward the most favorable venue based on price, liquidity, and execution conditions, while maintaining transparency and user control. One of the core benefits of aggregation is improved visibility into cross-market price differences. By presenting pricing disparities across venues, Fors enables users to identify arbitrage opportunities that may exist due to fragmented liquidity and inconsistent market pricing. In addition to aggregation and execution optimization, the beta release introduces copy trading functionality adapted for prediction markets. Users can follow experienced participants across aggregated venues, supported by transparent performance metrics, historical analytics, and configurable risk controls. A built-in demo practice mode allows users to test copy trading strategies without committing real capital. Fors operates with a non-custodial design, ensuring users retain ownership of their funds while interacting with multiple prediction markets through a single interface. The January 8 beta launch represents an early step in Fors’s broader vision to provide infrastructure-level tools as prediction markets continue to mature. About Fors Fors was created to solve the fragmentation and inefficiencies in modern prediction markets. Built on Solana, the platform aggregates multiple prediction venues into a single, transparent interface. Fors focuses on fairness, neutrality, and data integrity, allowing users to compare markets without bias. Its mission is to make prediction markets accessible, efficient, and professional-grade. With features such as real-time aggregation, smart order routing, arbitrage visibility, and copy trading with demo practice, Fors has attracted strong early adoption and is helping shape the next generation of prediction market infrastructure. Contact Johnathan Peled, Tel AvivHead Of Public Relations partnerships@fors.market Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release and is for informational purposes only. It does not reflect the views of Crypto Daily, nor is it intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, or financial advice.
Mantra Layoffs: A Stark Restructuring Amid Unrelenting Crypto Cost Pressures
BitcoinWorld Mantra Layoffs: A Stark Restructuring Amid Unrelenting Crypto Cost Pressures In a significant move reflecting broader industry strains, the Mantra (OM) blockchain protocol has initiated a major restructuring involving workforce reductions. This development, first reported by The Block on March 15, 2025, underscores the persistent financial pressures facing crypto projects in a prolonged bear market. CEO John Patrick Mullin confirmed the difficult decision on social media platform X, citing an unsustainable cost structure exacerbated by last year’s market crash and fierce competition. Mantra Layoffs Signal Deeper Ecosystem Challenges The restructuring at Mantra represents more than isolated corporate news. Consequently, it highlights systemic challenges within the blockchain sector. While the exact number of affected employees remains undisclosed, reports indicate targeted cuts across development, marketing, and human resources departments. These specific areas often face scrutiny first during cost-reduction phases. Furthermore, this strategic trimming aims to extend the project’s operational runway. The move follows a severe contraction in the protocol’s total value locked (TVL), a key health metric. Mantra’s TVL currently sits at approximately $860,000. This figure marks a dramatic 81% decline from its peak of $4.51 million in February of the previous year. Such a steep drop directly impacts revenue generated from protocol fees. Therefore, it creates a fundamental mismatch between income and operational expenses. The company’s leadership faced a clear imperative to align costs with this new, reduced reality. Market analysts often view TVL as a proxy for user trust and utility. Analyzing the CEO’s Statement and Market Context CEO John Patrick Mullin’s public statement provides crucial context for the Mantra layoffs. He explicitly linked the decision to three compounding factors: the April 2023 market crash, a prolonged downturn, and intensified competition. This triad of pressures creates a perfect storm for many layer-1 and layer-2 protocols. The April 2023 event triggered a widespread deleveraging across digital assets. Subsequently, a lack of sustained bullish momentum has hampered recovery for over a year. Competition within the blockchain space has indeed intensified. Newer protocols with substantial venture funding continue to launch, vying for the same developers, users, and capital. This environment demands exceptional efficiency and product-market fit. For established projects like Mantra, legacy cost structures from more bullish eras can become crippling liabilities. Mullin’s acknowledgment reflects a trend of increasing operational maturity and fiscal responsibility within crypto-native companies. Financial Metrics and Token Performance Under Scrutiny Beyond TVL, the native OM token’s performance offers additional insight. According to data from CoinMarketCap, OM was trading at $0.07949 at the time of the announcement, showing a 24-hour gain of 2.46%. However, short-term price movements often mask longer-term trends. The token’s value remains a fraction of its historical highs, mirroring the TVL contraction. This correlation between protocol utility (TVL) and token value is fundamental to the tokenomics of many blockchain networks. The following table compares key metrics before and after the market downturn: Metric Peak (Feb 2023) Current (Mar 2025) Change Total Value Locked (TVL) $4.51 Million $860,000 -81% OM Token Price* $0.41 (approx.) $0.079 -81% Market Environment Bullish Sentiment Prolonged Downturn Structural Shift *Representative historical price based on available data. This data illustrates the severe compression faced by the project. Restructuring becomes a survival mechanism under such conditions. The focus on development cuts is particularly noteworthy. It suggests a prioritization of core protocol maintenance over new feature expansion. Meanwhile, reducing marketing and HR spend indicates a shift from growth mode to conservation mode. The Broader Impact on Blockchain Development and Employment The Mantra layoffs contribute to a growing narrative about employment within the cryptocurrency industry. The sector, once known for aggressive hiring and high salaries, is now demonstrating cyclical vulnerability. Several other projects have undertaken similar workforce adjustments in recent months. This trend signals a maturation phase where unsustainable burn rates are no longer tolerated by investors or management. Key impacts of such restructuring include: Talent Redistribution: Affected developers and marketers may migrate to other crypto projects or traditional tech sectors. Development Slowdown: Roadmap delays are likely as core teams become leaner, potentially affecting ecosystem partners. Investor Sentiment: While cuts may improve financial sustainability, they can also erode confidence in a project’s near-term growth prospects. Community Perception: A loyal community may view layoffs as a negative signal, requiring transparent communication from leadership. Ultimately, the health of a protocol is measured by its resilience and ability to iterate. A smaller, more focused team can sometimes increase productivity by reducing overhead and bureaucracy. The coming months will reveal whether Mantra’s restructuring succeeds in creating a more agile and financially sound organization. Conclusion The Mantra layoffs and restructuring plan serve as a poignant case study in blockchain corporate adaptation. Faced with an 81% TVL decline and unrelenting market pressures, the protocol’s management made the difficult choice to reduce its workforce. This decision, focusing on development, marketing, and HR departments, aims to secure the project’s future by aligning costs with a new market reality. As the cryptocurrency industry continues its volatile evolution, such moves highlight the critical importance of sustainable economics and operational flexibility. The path forward for Mantra will depend on its ability to leverage a leaner structure to rebuild utility and trust, proving that strategic contraction can sometimes pave the way for future, more stable growth. FAQs Q1: Why is Mantra (OM) laying off employees? The company is implementing layoffs as part of a broader restructuring to address an unsustainable cost structure. CEO John Patrick Mullin cited the April 2023 market crash, a prolonged downturn, and intense competition as primary reasons. Q2: Which departments are affected by the Mantra layoffs? Reports indicate the workforce reductions are focused on the development, marketing, and human resources departments. The exact number of employees impacted has not been publicly disclosed. Q3: How has Mantra’s Total Value Locked (TVL) changed? Mantra’s TVL has fallen dramatically to approximately $860,000. This represents an 81% decrease from its peak of $4.51 million in February 2023, significantly reducing protocol fee revenue. Q4: What is the current price of the OM token? At the time of the announcement, the OM token was trading at $0.07949, according to CoinMarketCap. This reflected a 2.46% increase over the preceding 24-hour period. Q5: Is this part of a larger trend in the cryptocurrency industry? Yes, several blockchain projects have undertaken similar restructuring and layoffs in response to prolonged bear market conditions, highlighting a sector-wide shift towards financial sustainability and operational efficiency. This post Mantra Layoffs: A Stark Restructuring Amid Unrelenting Crypto Cost Pressures first appeared on BitcoinWorld .