ComplyControl has introduced a new program called SafeStart, offering early-stage fintechs in the UK and EU access to its AI-powered compliance tools at no cost for their first year. The initiative is designed to reduce the operational and financial pressures of regulatory compliance for startups, while supporting scalable growth and trust-building from day one. The London-based compliance technology provider said the SafeStart program provides startups with free access to its full suite of tools for up to 50,000 transactions per month. These tools include real-time transaction monitoring, AI-powered anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing detection, sanctions screening, and policy gap analysis. Small businesses spend significantly more per employee on compliance than large enterprises “The field of compliance grows perpetually more complex every day, making it a major roadblock for many fintechs who are just taking their first steps towards growth. With ComplyControl SafeStart, we want to remove that burden and let startups focus on building great products while we take care of the compliance side of things,” said Roman Eloshvili, Founder of ComplyControl. Data shows small businesses spend significantly more per employee on compliance than large enterprises, with the average cost reaching $7,000 annually. For startups operating with limited capital, these expenses can be prohibitive, yet skipping compliance often leads to even greater risks, including fines, investor hesitation, and failed partnerships. To help mitigate this risk, ComplyControl SafeStart offers 12 months of usage with no restricted features or hidden charges, enabling participants to fully integrate and test the platform without immediate commercial pressure. The program also includes unlimited no-code rule creation, allowing companies to configure the system rapidly, along with early access to new features and expert guidance from the ComplyControl team. The company emphasized that SafeStart participants will be using the same compliance infrastructure already deployed by banks and regulated financial institutions. Its AI engine enables transaction screening in under five seconds and reduces false positives by up to 80%, while maintaining explainability and usability. ComplyControl also highlighted its role as a hands-on partner in the compliance process. Startups enrolled in SafeStart receive ongoing mentoring, implementation support, and direct access to compliance specialists throughout the onboarding period. By removing the cost and complexity barriers typically associated with compliance technology, ComplyControl aims to help newer fintechs operate with the same confidence and efficiency as more mature players in the space.

eToro has announced a multi-year agreement to become the Official Trading Partner of Nottingham Forest FC for the 2025/26 season, covering both the Men’s and Women’s teams. The trading and investment platform said the partnership builds on its existing sponsorships with Crystal Palace, Everton, and West Ham United. The deal is tied to eToro’s Loud Investing campaign, an initiative aimed at reducing the gender investment gap by making investing more visible and relatable. “Football shapes culture, sparks conversation and brings people together” Stephanie Wilks-Wiffen, Director of Marketing at eToro, commented, “Football shapes culture, sparks conversation and brings people together, which is exactly what we need to make investing feel open and relatable. By supporting both Nottingham Forest’s Men’s and Women’s teams, we’re doubling down on our commitment to close the gender gap, in both the finance and sports spaces.” As part of the sponsorship, eToro’s branding will appear across the City Ground, including on pitch-side LED boards, stadium screens, and interview backdrops. The collaboration will also feature co-branded digital content with football insights, alongside a fan-zone activation on matchdays. Paul Bell, Chief Business Officer at Nottingham Forest, said, “We’re excited to add eToro to our portfolio of valued partners. It’s a global brand with an important focus on being socially responsible, and it shares our passion of using football to create a meaningful difference to communities. We’re looking forward to collaborating on impactful campaigns throughout the upcoming season.” eToro had a strong first quarter as a publicly listed company eToro delivered a strong first quarter as a publicly listed company, with revenue momentum and asset growth boosted by new product launches and a push into Asia. The Nasdaq-listed trading and investing platform said net contribution — a key measure of revenue after certain costs — climbed 26% from a year earlier to $210 million in the three months to June 30, driven by higher trading activity. Adjusted EBITDA rose 31% to $72 million, while funded accounts reached 3.63 million, up 14% year-on-year. Assets under administration jumped 54% to $17.5 billion, helped by both organic growth and last year’s acquisition of Australian app Spaceship. The company closed the quarter with $1.2 billion in cash, equivalents, and short-term investments. Net income dipped slightly to $30.2 million from $30.6 million a year earlier, weighed down by $15 million in IPO-related costs. On an adjusted basis, net income rose to $54.2 million, with adjusted diluted EPS at $0.56. eToro’s product rollouts spanned all four of its business pillars. The Israeli broker launched 24/5 trading for U.S. equities, expanded its U.S. crypto coverage to over 100 assets and rolled out AI-powered “Alpha Portfolios” as part of its Smart Portfolio range. eToro will roll out tokenized trading for U.S. equities, ETFs, and futures, aiming to offer 24/7 access to traditionally time-bound markets. The plan will allow investors to trade tokenized versions of stocks like Apple, Tesla, and Nvidia via ERC-20 tokens on Ethereum. Futures trading will be offered through a partnership with CME Group. A partnership with Franklin Templeton brought target-date investment strategies to the platform, while the company debuted French savings products and expanded recurring investment services to the UAE. The period also saw the Europe-wide rollout of the eToro Money card, which offers stock-back rewards and fee-free FX. Assia said eToro is investing in tokenization and AI as part of a strategy to make investing simpler and more accessible for retail users, while continuing to drive sustainable growth.

Spotware, the developer of the cTrader multi-asset trading platform has launched an essential update with the introduction of cTrader Windows version 5.4, native Python, supporting algorithmic trading development. At this launch, cTrader will become the first trading platform to include Python at a native level, which is a big step towards increased flexibility and accessibility of the platform among traders and developers. Being one of the most popular programming languages in the world, Python is characterized by simplicity, readability, and a range of libraries related to data science and machine learning. Being integrated with the cTrader is a game-changer leveraging traders of all skill levels with an easier and more intuitive method of developing, personalizing, and automating trading strategies. New language, More opportunities to Algo Traders Version 5.4 also brings the ability to create cBots, indicators and plugins in Python to cTrader Windows users, opening up the potential for multi-faceted workflows and making it more attractive to a wider developer base. The new feature augments the platform which already supported C# allowing traders to use the language they feel most comfortable to code in. To the Python bot-builders, cTrader also offers a library of sample scripts running Python 3, to ensure a similar experience to C#. When combined with cTrader intuitive bot creation wizard, the user can begin creating an automated trading solution in Python with minimal requirements, ready to go with existing templates or work ad hoc. “The addition of native Python support in cTrader is a big leap forward for our ecosystem,” said Ilia Iarovitcyn, CEO Spotware. “Python is one of the most widely adopted languages in the world, particularly among algorithmic traders and fintech developers. By supporting it natively within cTrader, we’re not only lowering the barrier to entry for algo development, but also opening the door to a much broader community of innovators. This gives developers a fast, elegant way to turn their ideas into reality using the tools and libraries they already know. For brokers, it means faster delivery of new solutions and more ways to differentiate their offer.” As Engines of Growth to Brokers and IBs Algorithms Python support in cTrader is an entirely new source of revenues to introducing brokers (IBs). The popularity of the language worldwide allows a huge number of developers to create more sophisticated trading robots, plugins and indicators to be built more rapidly. The net effect is an even more powerful collection of innovative algorithms in the cTrader Store that IBs now have to attract and convert traders. Another advantage is on the side of brokers, who can provide clients with a more comprehensive palette of algorithmic solutions, increased client outreach and retention in an increasingly competitive trading environment. The Open Trading PlatformTM in Practice This update demonstrates Spotware focus on its Open Trading Platform philosophy- a flexible, extendible platform on which traders and developers may innovate without limitations, as well as brokers. The introduction of Python support languages expands the access and eases the process of innovation by developers, eases the capability of integration within the ecosystem of the platform. Regardless of whether it offers institutional-grade solutions or a retail strategy, the 5.4 release enables all participants to customize, scale and differentiate their trading experience with tools that can integrate into a transparent, broker-friendly environment. Spotware challenges traders and developers to wait and see what cTrader 5.4 will provide at its complete release. The team in the interim is currently accessible to enable individuals who are keen to exploit its latest Python features. About cTrader cTrader is a multi-asset FX/CFD trading platform launched by Spotware which is driven by its Traders First 00827616 euro concepts. With features, engineering and unmatched performance, cTrader is a premium trading platform designed by brokers, prop firms and retail traders. The most important highlights were: Full native charts Advanced native tools In-built social trading aspects Trading algorithm on-demand execution Free cloud Trading algorithm free on-demand cloud Algorithm execution free of charge login There are more than 100 third party integrations through the APIs and plugins provided as an open ecosystem. The cTrader Store will enable developers to commercialise their trading algorithms and place them in front of more than 8 million traders worldwide, and enable brokers to scale through IB solutions and streamlined onboarding.

KuCoin, one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges globally, has reported that KuCoin Pay, its very own crypto payment option is to conclude a partnership with Umy, a transformative Web3 travel and lifestyle platform. The integration will result in opening up travel, making it competent and worth it by making payments with seamless and secure cryptocurrencies on Umys worldwide reservations network. With this integration, KuCoin users can simply make hotel bookings, flight reservations as well as availing lifestyle services on Umy, using their digital currency. KuCoin Pay supports more than 50 cryptocurrencies such as KCS, USDT, USDC, and BTC, and its no currency conversion or even traditional banking middleman, providing a smoother travel expenditure. “At KuCoin Pay, our mission is to bridge crypto with everyday life, and travel is one of the most exciting frontiers,” said Kumiko Ho, Head of Payment Business at KuCoin. “Our partnership with Umy allows users to unlock real-world experiences directly with their digital assets, offering more freedom, convenience, and value in every journey.” “Umy is committed to making travel and lifestyle services accessible in the Web3 era,” said Alex Lee, Umy CEO. “By partnering with KuCoin Pay, we’re enabling travelers to seamlessly use their crypto assets for bookings, making the experience more efficient, borderless, and rewarding.” In promotion of the launch, KuCoin Pay and Umy have decided to provide KuCoin users with a special offer until 1September 2025: 20 dollars of discount with every 200 dollars spent on hotel booking, flights, and other traveller accommodations. The complete information is contained in an official announcement made by KuCoin.

Bitcoin (BTC) is undergoing a period of consolidation after recently hitting an all-time high above $124,000. As of August 18, the cryptocurrency is trading around $115,000, marking a notable retracement from its peak. Market sentiment has shifted from euphoric highs to cautious observation, as analysts highlight the potential for a deeper correction. Current technical patterns suggest that BTC is forming a triangle consolidation structure, with a key support zone between $117,000 and $118,000. If this level holds, traders expect a rebound toward resistance levels at $120,000–$123,000. However, a breakdown below support could trigger a retreat to the $108,000–$112,000 range, as some analysts warn of an overdue correction following a seven-week rally. Despite the short-term uncertainty, long-term technical indicators and historical halving cycle patterns point to renewed strength later in 2025. Market researchers note that Bitcoin may be entering a fresh price discovery phase, with potential to surpass recent highs if macroeconomic conditions remain favorable. Factors such as institutional inflows, evolving regulatory clarity, and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s policy stance could play pivotal roles in shaping BTC’s trajectory. For now, all eyes are on the $117,000–$118,000 support zone. A sustained defense of this level may provide the springboard for the next bullish leg, while a failure to hold could extend the correction further. As Bitcoin consolidates, the market faces a defining moment that could set the tone for the remainder of the year. Ethereum (ETH) is trading around $4,377, nearing a critical resistance zone at $4,480–$4,500. The second-largest cryptocurrency has gained momentum in recent weeks, approaching levels not seen since its previous record highs. A decisive break above this resistance could pave the way for ETH to test $5,000 in the near term. Exchange balances for Ethereum have dropped to a nine-year low, indicating investor accumulation and reduced selling pressure. This trend provides a supportive backdrop for a potential breakout. However, technical indicators remain mixed, with short-term oscillators and moving averages signaling caution. While the short-term outlook is cautious, institutional flows and broader market adoption are underpinning Ethereum’s longer-term trajectory. Analysts highlight Ethereum’s expanding role in stablecoin transactions, staking, and decentralized finance as key factors driving its fundamental strength. Standard Chartered recently raised its year-end price target for ETH to $7,500, citing its utility and demand in supporting the stablecoin economy. Support levels remain at $4,200 in the immediate term, with deeper floors near $3,950–$3,800 if selling pressure intensifies. Conversely, if ETH can sustain momentum above $4,500, analysts expect a strong move toward $5,000 and potentially new all-time highs later this year. For now, traders are watching Ethereum’s critical resistance zone. The coming days could define whether ETH embarks on a new bullish leg or faces another consolidation phase before resuming its upward climb.  

On August 18, 2025, FalconX, a leading institutional crypto prime broker, executed a transaction that immediately caught the attention of the digital asset industry. The firm moved 25,684 ETH, valued at roughly $115.1 million, to two newly created wallets. Analysts believe the wallets are likely controlled by the same entity, sparking widespread speculation about the purpose and timing of such a significant movement. The transfer was first detected and flagged by Onchain Lens, a blockchain analytics platform that monitors real-time on-chain activity. The alert quickly circulated across crypto trading communities, highlighting how institutional players’ moves are now scrutinized in the same way as those of high-profile individual investors, often referred to as “whales.” While FalconX has not issued a public statement on the matter, industry observers suggest multiple possible explanations. The move may represent internal restructuring of custodial assets, settlement of client-driven trades, preparation for Ethereum staking under the Proof-of-Stake model, or even the early stages of a new product launch. Each scenario has different implications for market structure and liquidity. Market Implications and Institutional Significance Despite the eye-catching size of the transaction, the Ethereum market has not yet shown sharp volatility in response. ETH prices remained relatively stable in the hours following the transfer. However, many analysts caution that such movements often shape investor sentiment and may foreshadow broader shifts. Even if the direct price impact is muted in the short term, the psychological effect of watching $115 million in ETH flow to unknown wallets cannot be overlooked. This episode underscores the growing influence of institutional actors in the crypto ecosystem. A decade ago, whale movements typically referred to early retail adopters or mining collectives. Today, prime brokers and trading firms like FalconX play a central role in liquidity provision, custody, and settlement. Their activity not only influences markets directly but also provides signals to other large players deciding how to allocate capital. Moreover, the visibility of blockchain transactions ensures that institutions cannot operate behind closed doors as traditional banks might. Instead, their strategic maneuvers are increasingly subject to real-time public analysis, which can amplify both market confidence and market anxiety, depending on interpretation. As the community speculates about FalconX’s intent, the lack of immediate clarification from the firm has fueled competing theories. Some argue the move is purely operational and reflects routine balance sheet management, while others see it as a sign of long-term positioning during a market dip, possibly in preparation for staking or derivative products. What is clear is that blockchain transparency has heightened the stakes for institutional actors. Their movements are no longer private decisions but rather public signals that can sway perception and shape narratives. For Ethereum traders and institutional investors alike, FalconX’s $115 million transfer serves as another reminder that in today’s digital asset markets, even the most technical transactions carry profound symbolic weight. As Ethereum continues to evolve and institutional adoption deepens, such events will likely become more common—each one a flashpoint for speculation, strategy, and scrutiny in the global crypto economy.

AMINA Bank AG has announced that Michael Benz will head its Hong Kong office and oversee growth across the Asia-Pacific region. The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority-regulated crypto bank recorded 69 percent revenue growth in 2024, reaching $40.4 million, and now seeks to build on this momentum in Asia. Benz spent more than three decades in senior leadership roles, including Global Head of Private Banking at Standard Chartered, CEO of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Asia, and Head of Product and Services at UBS Wealth Management APAC. He will report directly to Franz Bergmueller, CEO of AMINA Bank. “Expertise in both traditional finance and crypto” Franz Bergmueller, CEO of AMINA Bank, commented, “Michael’s expertise in both traditional finance and crypto makes him the ideal leader to continue our expansion across Asia. His exceptional network and deep understanding of client needs will allow us to continue evolving our crypto products and capabilities. Michael’s leadership ensures that we can deliver the comprehensive, regulated crypto services that our sophisticated clients demand in the region.” Hong Kong has recently advanced its regulatory environment for digital assets with the rollout of the Securities and Futures Commission’s ASPIRe roadmap, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s stablecoin licensing framework effective August 1, and the government’s Digital Asset Policy 2.0. These steps have opened the door to wider institutional adoption of crypto services in the market. Benz said, “My two decades in Asia have shown me that Hong Kong uniquely prioritises practical business adoption in a regulated environment, and crypto technology is no exception. This creates an extraordinary opportunity for institutions, corporates, and professional investors exploring this new asset class. What drew me to AMINA is their distinctive approach, combining regulatory excellence and rigor with Hong Kong market access to deliver crypto solutions that clients can trust. I look forward to contributing to AMINA’s journey as we shape the future of financial services in Hong Kong and beyond.” AMINA Bank intends to accelerate its APAC expansion with new strategic partnerships in Hong Kong and technology platform upgrades scheduled for the second half of 2025. The bank said these developments will strengthen its role as an infrastructure provider for institutional adoption of crypto banking services.

Dutch digital asset management company Amdax has announced plans to launch a new venture, the Amsterdam Bitcoin Treasury Strategy (AMBTS), with the goal of creating one of Europe’s first dedicated Bitcoin treasury firms. The initiative is designed to pool private investor capital into a long-term Bitcoin reserve, with a stated ambition to eventually hold 1% of the total Bitcoin supply. According to Amdax, AMBTS will seek a listing on Euronext Amsterdam, positioning itself as a regulated and transparent vehicle for institutional and high-net-worth investors to gain exposure to Bitcoin at scale. The listing would make AMBTS one of the first treasury-focused Bitcoin entities to appear on a major European exchange, setting a precedent for similar ventures across the continent. Rising Institutional Bitcoin Demand Amdax’s timing is no coincidence. The company highlighted the fact that institutions, governments, and corporates now collectively hold more than 10% of the Bitcoin supply, demonstrating a growing acceptance of Bitcoin as a legitimate store of value. With Bitcoin prices up around 32% year-to-date in 2025, the momentum behind institutional adoption continues to build. For Amdax, AMBTS represents not only a new investment product but also a statement of intent about the future role of Bitcoin in global finance. The company believes that Amsterdam, as one of Europe’s leading financial centers, offers the right infrastructure and regulatory environment to support such an initiative. By choosing Euronext Amsterdam, Amdax hopes to combine the credibility of a regulated exchange with the appeal of Bitcoin’s decentralized monetary properties. Long-Term Strategic Vision AMBTS aims to differentiate itself from traditional investment funds and exchange-traded products by focusing on treasury management rather than speculative exposure. The strategy is to accumulate Bitcoin in significant amounts, lock it into long-term reserves, and treat it as a strategic financial asset similar to gold. By targeting 1% of Bitcoin’s total supply—equivalent to around 210,000 BTC at today’s issuance—the company is setting an ambitious long-term benchmark. If achieved, this would place AMBTS among the largest corporate or institutional Bitcoin holders globally, rivaling entities such as MicroStrategy and government treasuries that have recently accumulated large Bitcoin positions. The launch also signals Europe’s intent to compete with the U.S. in hosting institutional-grade Bitcoin investment vehicles. While the United States has seen rapid growth in Bitcoin ETFs and corporate treasury adoption, Europe has been slower to embrace large-scale, publicly listed Bitcoin entities. AMBTS could mark a turning point, potentially drawing new flows of capital into European markets. Amdax emphasized that transparency, regulatory compliance, and investor protection will be at the core of AMBTS’s structure. By combining these elements with the long-term vision of creating a Bitcoin treasury powerhouse, the company is betting on growing institutional recognition of Bitcoin’s role in diversified portfolios. As the firm moves ahead with its plans, investors and policymakers alike will be watching closely to see if AMBTS secures its listing and delivers on its ambitious target. Success could pave the way for a new wave of Bitcoin treasury vehicles in Europe, while failure might reinforce skepticism about the feasibility of large-scale Bitcoin financial products in the region.

Reports have emerged suggesting that BlackRock, the world’s largest asset manager, is preparing to file for a spot exchange-traded fund (ETF) tied to Hedera’s native cryptocurrency, HBAR. According to some sources, the filing could come as early as August 18, 2025. The rumor has spread quickly through crypto media outlets and trading forums, drawing comparisons to BlackRock’s previous moves in the digital asset market. The firm’s successful applications for Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs marked significant milestones for institutional crypto adoption, fueling expectations that HBAR could be next in line. However, despite the excitement, there has been no official confirmation from BlackRock or the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). As of now, no filing has appeared in the SEC’s database. Industry observers warn that while the reports have generated momentum in the market, they remain speculative and unverified. HBAR Price Rises Amid Speculation Even without confirmation, the market reaction has been immediate. HBAR prices surged by approximately 2–5% following the rumors, pushing the token into the $0.25–$0.26 range. This rally follows a broader pattern of digital assets responding to ETF-related speculation, as seen with Bitcoin and Ethereum in the past. Technical analysis suggests a bullish outlook in the short term. Traders are watching the $0.275 level as a key resistance point, with sustained movement above that threshold potentially opening the way to further gains. Market commentators also note that the token’s price has risen above important moving averages, reinforcing positive momentum. Forecasts within the crypto space vary widely. Conservative short-term projections put HBAR at $0.40–$0.50 if speculative momentum continues. Mid-term outlooks see potential growth toward the $0.80–$1.00 range, while highly bullish scenarios stretch to $2.00 or more. Some fringe forecasts even suggest a $5 target, though such estimates are viewed as highly speculative and reliant on massive institutional inflows that have not yet materialized. Community Skepticism and a Reality Check While excitement dominates trading activity, the broader crypto community remains divided. Discussions on forums such as Reddit emphasize caution, with many users labeling the reports as baseless. “There is no news or official statement that confirms this,” one user remarked, reflecting a widespread sentiment that the current surge is being fueled more by rumor than reality. Analysts stress that only a confirmed SEC filing or a statement from BlackRock itself would validate the reports. Until then, traders are urged to approach the hype with skepticism, recognizing the volatility that often accompanies speculative news in the crypto sector. For now, the HBAR ETF story remains unconfirmed. Market participants are closely watching for regulatory filings, official announcements, and responses from Hedera or its governing council. If verified, a BlackRock HBAR ETF would represent a significant milestone for the project, potentially opening the door to broader institutional adoption. Until such confirmation arrives, however, the narrative remains speculative. Investors and traders are advised to balance optimism with caution, as the difference between rumor and regulatory reality could determine whether the recent price surge proves sustainable—or short-lived.

The idea of earning from digital art, collectibles, music, or media by selling NFTs is exciting. But one thing deters many creators: minting fees. Most NFT platforms charge “gas” (transaction) fees for creating NFTs, and on popular blockchains like Ethereum, these costs can add up quickly. However, the NFT space is evolving, and today’s creators have multiple options to mint NFTs for free. This guide walks you through how to create, mint, and list NFTs without spending any money—using “lazy minting,” gasless platforms, and free blockchain networks. Whether you’re an artist, musician, photographer, or creator, here’s your roadmap to launching an NFT project on a zero budget. What Are NFTs and Minting Fees? NFTs—non-fungible tokens—are unique digital assets stored on a blockchain. Traditionally, “minting” an NFT records your art or content as a new entry (token) on the blockchain, which incurs a transaction (gas) fee. On networks like Ethereum, these fees cover the computation and energy to process the transaction, sometimes costing $10–$50 or more per NFT. But today’s platforms, protocols, and techniques can pass those fees onto buyers or utilize eco-friendly blockchains with zero fees for creators. Step 1: Choose a Free NFT Platform or Blockchain Lazy Minting on Leading Marketplaces Lazy minting lets creators list NFTs for sale without paying upfront fees; the NFT isn’t officially minted until a buyer purchases it (and pays the blockchain fee). This technique is supported on major platforms: OpenSea: The world’s largest NFT marketplace supports lazy minting using the Polygon blockchain. You upload your art, create an NFT listing, and pay nothing upfront. When someone buys your NFT, the asset is minted, and the buyer pays the network fee. Rarible: Offers lazy minting for free on both Ethereum and Polygon networks. Like OpenSea, NFTs are not written to the blockchain until sale, passing minting costs to buyers. Gasless (Zero-Fee) Blockchains Certain blockchains are designed for free, eco-friendly NFT creation: Polygon (on OpenSea, Rarible, Mintable, etc.): No ETH gas fees. Minting on Polygon is virtually free for creators. Tezos (using platforms like Objkt, Kalamint): Ultra-low transaction costs. Many Tezos NFT platforms will cover fees for first-time creators. Solana (with Magic Eden, SolSea): Very low minting fees; some events or platforms sponsor free minting for new artists. Free Mint Promotions Occasionally, leading marketplaces run promotional events for free minting, especially for new users, drops by popular creators, or collaborative projects. Watch platform blogs and newsletters for these special offers. Step 2: Set Up Your Digital Wallet (No Ethereum Needed!) To create NFTs, you need a crypto wallet that supports your chosen blockchain. Here’s how to set up—completely free: Install MetaMask (for Ethereum/Polygon), Phantom (for Solana), Kukai (for Tezos), or other trusted wallet. Register and Secure your account; store your recovery phrase securely. No crypto or funds required! If you’re using lazy minting or a supported blockchain, you don’t need to buy ETH, SOL, or XTZ in advance. Step 3: Create Your Digital Content NFT platforms accept a wide range of media: Digital art (PNG, JPG, GIF, SVG) Music/audio (MP3, WAV) Video (MP4, MOV) 3D objects (GLB, OBJ) Photography and more Prepare your file within platform size limits—typically under 100MB per file. Step 4: Mint and List Your NFT for Free Example: Lazy Minting on OpenSea (Polygon) Go to OpenSea and connect your wallet. Click “Create.” Upload your file, set the name, description, and add properties or unlockable content if desired. Choose Polygon as your Blockchain. Complete the form and click “Create.” Your NFT will now appear in your account—no gas fees paid! You can now list it for sale. Only when the NFT is purchased will it be minted (and the buyer covers the cost). Example: Rarible Lazy Mint The process is similar: select lazy minting, confirm details, and sign a free transaction with your wallet. Example: Tezos on Objkt Connect your wallet. Many platforms cover first minting fees, so the process is free for new users. Step 5: Share and Promote Your NFT Minted for free, your NFT is now ready to sell. Promote it via social media, NFT communities, Discord servers, and online galleries. Creators who build a brand or story around their work have the best success. Additional Tips to Mint NFTs for Free Verify Platform Policies: Free minting is usually available for standard listings. Advanced features (like auction or unlockable content) may sometimes incur small fees. Be Wary of Scams: Only use well-known platforms. Never pay up-front for “minting” outside of official marketplaces. Collaborate: Some projects sponsor artists and cover all minting fees. Check out artist collectives and NFT communities. Test and Learn: Try minting a test NFT on a free blockchain to learn the process. Pros and Cons of Free NFT Minting Pros Cons Zero up-front cost The buyer pays the minting transaction fee Risk-free experimentation May be limited to certain blockchains Opens access to more creators Free NFTs may be less visible than paid drops The Bottom Line You no longer need deep pockets or technical expertise to start creating and minting NFTs. Major platforms and innovative blockchains provide routes for creators everywhere to share, sell, and profit from digital art with zero up-front cost. By learning how lazy minting, gasless platforms, and alternative blockchains work, you can join the NFT boom risk-free. So, gather your best work, set up a compatible wallet, and start experimenting with NFT creation today—without spending a dime! Frequently Asked Questions Does lazy-minted NFT provide real blockchain ownership? Yes. Once sold, the NFT is minted and recorded on the blockchain with permanent ownership history. Are free-minted NFTs less valuable? Not inherently. Quality and community matter far more than how an NFT was minted. Can I earn royalties with free minting? Absolutely. Platforms like OpenSea and Rarible let you set royalties even on lazy-minted NFTs. Will I ever need to pay fees? Selling and transferring NFTs may incur marketplace or network fees, especially for more advanced actions beyond initial minting.

The internet is replete with passing trends, but none have captured the public imagination and investor attention quite like NFTs. Ranging from multimillion-dollar digital artwork sales to tradable video highlights, NFTs were a staple of the Web3 economy. With that said, it should be mentioned that making sense of NFTs and what they are, how and why they work, and their importance entails untangling a complex combination of technology, finance, art, and law. This piece offers a detailed examination of NFTs, covering what they are, how they function, their applications, benefits and risks, and what the future has in store for this evolving technology. What is an NFT? A Non-Fungible Token, or NFT, is a digital asset that represents ownership or proof of authenticity of a unique item or piece of content, secured and verifiable by blockchain technology. The term non-fungible tells us that each token is unique and not interchangeable on a one-to-one basis with another token. This is in stark contrast with fungible assets, like Bitcoin or US dollars, where each unit is identical and can be freely exchanged with any other unit of the same type. Key Characteristics of an NFT Uniqueness: Each NFT is recognized by an ID code and metadata that distinguishes it from any other NFT. Indivisibility: NFTs are not normally divisible into portions to be purchased or sold like traditional cryptocurrencies. Provenance and Ownership: Provenance and ownership are immutably recorded on a blockchain, creating verifiable, tamper-proof digital ownership.   How Do NFTs Work? While the concept of NFTs may seem abstract, their functionality rests on familiar foundations: blockchain technology, digital ownership, and smart contracts. Understanding how NFTs are created, stored, and transferred is crucial to appreciating why they’ve become such a disruptive force in digital markets. Blockchain Backbone NFTs are typically built on blockchains that support smart contracts—programs that execute automatically when certain conditions are met. Ethereum is the most popular blockchain for NFTs, with standards such as ERC-721 and ERC-1155, but competitors such as Solana, Flow, and Tezos have also become leaders. Minting and Metadata To create an NFT, a process called minting is performed. Minting involves registering the asset, its metadata (like the creator’s name, original file hash, smart contract terms), and a unique token ID onto the blockchain. Once minted, the NFT is recorded in the creator’s wallet and soon available for transfer or sale. Metadata is the backbone of an NFT—it points to or contains the asset itself (digital artwork, music file, video), ensuring its provenance and uniqueness. Sometimes, the digital file is stored off-chain (in cloud storage or distributed systems like IPFS), and the blockchain stores only a link to its location with the hash for verification purposes. Buying, Selling, and Trading NFTs NFTs are bought, sold, and traded on specialized NFT marketplaces such as OpenSea, Rarible, Magic Eden, SuperRare, and NBA Top Shot’s proprietary platform. Some are bought at fixed prices, while others are auctioned. When you buy an NFT, you’re purchasing the blockchain-secured proof of ownership and the associated rights programmed in the smart contract. These rights vary widely and can include resale royalties for creators, access to exclusive materials or communities, or even rights to physical items in some cases. Wallets and Security NFTs are stored in digital wallets compatible with the NFT’s blockchain. Owning the private keys to your wallet means having ultimate control over your NFTs. Security is paramount—loss of your private keys means irrecoverable loss of your assets. What Kinds of Assets Can Be NFTs? NFTs have become a medium for representing ownership of both digital and real-world assets: Digital Art: Perhaps the most famous use case, allowing artists to sell digital works as unique, ownable assets. This includes still images, animations, 3D renderings, etc. Photographs and Memes: Viral internet content, including memes like Nyan Cat, has been sold as NFTs. Music and Audio Files: Musicians can release tracks, albums, or concert tickets as NFTs, often including access to exclusive content or future perks. Videos and Highlights: Iconic moments from sports—like NBA Top Shot clips—are especially popular. Collectibles: Digital trading cards, rare items in games, and virtual pets. Virtual Land & In-Game Assets: Platforms like Decentraland or The Sandbox let users buy and trade digital land and objects. Domain Names: Blockchain-based ownership of domain names can also take the form of NFTs. Physical Items and Tokenization: Some NFTs represent real-world objects—like limited-edition sneakers, sculptures, or real estate. Ownership of the NFT entitles the holder to claim the physical object or receive income from it. Why Do NFTs Matter? NFTs are more than just a fad—they represent a new way of thinking about ownership, authenticity, and value in the digital world. By embedding scarcity and provenance into assets that can otherwise be copied endlessly, NFTs unlock opportunities for creators, collectors, and industries to rethink how value is exchanged online. Redefining Ownership and Authenticity NFTs solve a longstanding problem in the digital world: how to confer uniqueness and ownership in a medium that is endlessly copyable. By leveraging blockchain’s immutable ledger, NFTs give digital assets scarcity, authenticated provenance, and proof of ownership that anyone can independently verify. Empowering Creators With NFTs, creators can mint, sell, and earn royalties from their work without the need for intermediaries like galleries, auction houses, or record labels. Smart contracts embedded in NFTs ensure artists receive royalty payments each time their works are resold on the secondary market—a major innovation in digital rights management. Unlocking Programmable Utility NFTs can do more than just designate ownership. They can act as keys to unlock additional content, grant entry to special experiences (like online concerts or club memberships), serve as DAO (decentralized autonomous organization) voting tokens, or evolve over time (for example, a game character that levels up based on its owner’s actions). Market Innovation Entire cottage industries—digital art collecting, blockchain gaming, and virtual real estate—have blossomed around NFTs. Brands, celebrities, and artists are testing new business models and creative distribution channels, making NFTs a laboratory for future possibilities in the digital economy. Understanding the Value Proposition Like fine art, collectibles, or rare commodities, NFTs derive value not only from their technological underpinnings but also from cultural demand and scarcity. To grasp their true potential, it’s important to explore what gives an NFT worth in the eyes of buyers, sellers, and communities. Scarcity and Demand NFTs derive their value from the scarcity and demand for a particular digital item. Like physical art, the reputation of the creator, uniqueness, historical significance, and desirability among collectors all play roles in establishing price. Ownership vs. Copyright Owning an NFT means owning the blockchain token that references or contains the asset—not automatically owning the full copyright to the content. Copyright and usage rights depend on the terms specified by the creator or marketplace. Most times, you have the right to display, resell, or use the content for personal enjoyment, but not to reproduce for commercial purposes unless explicitly granted. Examples and High-Profile Sales Beeple’s “Everydays: The First 5000 Days” sold for $69 million at Christie’s. NBA Top Shot moments: Highlight clips have been bought and sold for six or even seven figures. CryptoPunks and Bored Ape Yacht Club: These generative profile-picture projects have become status symbols, with single images selling for millions. Jack Dorsey’s first tweet: Sold as an NFT for nearly $3 million. Risks, Challenges, and Criticisms Speculation and Volatility The NFT market has seen wild swings in valuations and speculative buying. Many have questioned whether prices for some NFTs can be justified or sustained. Like any investment, NFTs are high risk, and a significant number of projects have crashed in value after the initial hype. Scams and Fraud Common issues include: Counterfeit NFTs: Scammers mint NFTs of art they don’t own the rights to. Phishing and wallet scams: Fraudsters trick users into giving away access to their wallets. Rug pulls: Developers abandon a project after selling NFTs, leaving buyers with worthless assets. Environmental Impact NFTs on proof-of-work blockchains like Ethereum have faced criticism for energy consumption. However, as Ethereum and other blockchains transition to proof-of-stake models, energy usage is set to decrease drastically. Legal and Regulatory Ambiguity NFT ownership can be complex from a legal standpoint. Unclear copyright rules, vague language in smart contracts, and differing international regulations all contribute to a rapidly shifting legal landscape.   How to Buy, Sell, or Create NFTs Set Up a Digital Wallet: Create and fund a wallet with the crypto required on your chosen NFT marketplace (usually ETH for Ethereum-based platforms). Choose a Marketplace: Popular NFT platforms include OpenSea, Rarible, NBA Top Shot, Magic Eden, and LooksRare. Browse and Purchase: Bid on auctions or buy NFTs outright using your crypto wallet. Create (Mint) NFTs: Many platforms allow artists and creators to upload their work, add metadata, choose royalties, and mint NFTs directly.   The Future of NFTs While NFT enthusiasm has cooled from its 2021-2022 peaks, serious infrastructure continues to develop. Brands are launching ticketing, loyalty, or digital identity solutions with NFTs. Gaming studios are integrating NFTs for in-game objects and player-owned economies. Furthermore, as regulations clarify and consumer education improves, NFTs will likely become more accessible, secure, and integrated into mainstream digital experiences. Conclusion NFTs represent a groundbreaking intersection of technology, art, ownership, and commerce. NFTs make digital assets unique, ownable, and tradable on a scale never before imaginable. As with any nascent innovation, the landscape continues to evolve—offering opportunities, risks, and challenges in equal parts. For artists, collectors, and investors, an understanding of NFTs is now essential for success in tomorrow’s digital economy. But however you think of them, as a flash in the pan or the building blocks of Web3, NFTs have already revolutionized how we think about value, creativity, and ownership online. As they evolve and mature, their impact on digital culture and economics is only just beginning. Disclaimer: The NFT space involves substantial risks. Always conduct your own research, and consult legal and financial experts before making significant investments.

The U.S. Treasury Department is seeking public input on how digital identity tools and emerging technologies could be built into crypto infrastructure to crack down on illicit finance — including a proposal to embed identity checks directly into decentralized finance (DeFi) smart contracts. The consultation, published this week, stems from the GENIUS Act, the stablecoin law signed by President Donald Trump in July that requires regulators to explore compliance technologies for digital assets. One option under review is integrating digital identity credentials into DeFi protocols. In practice, that would mean a smart contract automatically verifying a user’s ID before a transaction is executed, embedding Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks into the blockchain itself. Digital IDs as a Compliance Tool Treasury said digital identity systems — ranging from government IDs and biometrics to portable credentials — could cut compliance costs while giving banks and DeFi services stronger tools to detect money laundering, terrorist financing, and sanctions evasion. But it also acknowledged challenges, such as safeguarding privacy and balancing regulatory oversight with space for innovation. “Treasury welcomes input on any matter that commenters believe is relevant,” the agency said. Public comments will remain open until Oct. 17, 2025. After the consultation, Treasury will submit a report to Congress and may issue new guidance or rules. The request comes as banks lobby lawmakers to tighten stablecoin regulations. Last week, the Bank Policy Institute warned that a loophole in the GENIUS Act could allow issuers to offer interest through affiliates, potentially diverting as much as $6.6 trillion in deposits from the banking system. While the U.S. weighs digital ID frameworks, other jurisdictions have moved more swiftly. Switzerland expanded its DLT Act in April to let banks custody tokenized securities, and the FDIC in March gave U.S. banks more room to pursue crypto without prior approval.

Crypto exchange Kraken has temporarily suspended deposits of Monero (XMR) after detecting a 51% attack on the privacy-focused blockchain, raising fresh concerns over the security of one of the industry’s longest-standing digital assets. The suspension followed evidence that a single mining pool had seized control of more than half of Monero’s hashing power, giving it the ability to reorder transactions and attempt double-spends. “As a security precaution, we have paused Monero deposits after detecting that a single mining pool has gained more than 50% of the network’s total hashing power,” Kraken said on Friday. “This concentration of mining power poses a potential risk to network integrity.” For context, a “51% attack” occurs when a single entity or group controls the majority of a blockchain’s computational power, enabling them to rewrite parts of the ledger, reverse transactions, or block new ones. While rare, such attacks have been seen before on smaller proof-of-work blockchains like Ethereum Classic, Bitcoin Gold, and Verge, but Monero has historically been considered more resistant due to its strong community of independent miners. The fact that a network as mature as Monero has now faced this scenario has amplified industry concern. Qubic Claims Responsibility Layer-1 blockchain and mining pool Qubic said it had reached 51% dominance of Monero’s hashrate earlier this week, reorganizing six blocks in the process. The Monero community has disputed whether the event qualifies as a full-scale attack. Qubic’s spokespeople described the development as “a pivotal moment in the crypto industry,” contrasting the takeover of a $6 billion privacy network with the capabilities of a $300 million AI-driven blockchain project. The pool briefly lost its edge following a denial-of-service (DDoS) attack on August 4, which cut its hashrate from 2.6 GH/s to 0.8 GH/s, but it later recovered and regained majority control, according to developer Sergey Ivancheglo, who claimed responsibility. Ivancheglo is best known as one of the original co-founders of IOTA and has been a controversial figure in the blockchain space. His involvement has drawn additional scrutiny, with critics suggesting the move may be as much a publicity stunt for Qubic as a genuine attack on Monero. Others argue that regardless of intent, the incident highlights how concentrated hashpower—even from an external project—can destabilize a network. Monero, the world’s 29th largest cryptocurrency by market value, has long marketed itself as one of the most private and censorship-resistant blockchains. The ongoing hashrate takeover has rattled its community, with many warning that centralization of mining power undercuts its core ethos. Monero’s design—using techniques like ring signatures, stealth addresses, and confidential transactions—has made it a favorite among privacy advocates, but also a target for regulators who associate it with illicit use cases. As mining becomes more competitive, observers fear that smaller miners may be priced out, leaving room for powerful pools to dominate. This is the very scenario Monero’s community has historically tried to avoid by encouraging mining on consumer-grade hardware. While Kraken did not specify when deposits would be re-enabled, the exchange said it would continue monitoring the situation closely. Other exchanges may follow Kraken’s lead, as prolonged centralization of hashrate can put user funds at risk. In past cases involving 51% attacks on other coins, exchanges have raised confirmation requirements or temporarily halted trading to mitigate risks of double-spending.

Grayscale Investments has filed to convert its Dogecoin trust into an exchange-traded fund, seeking regulatory clearance to list on NYSE Arca under the ticker GDOG, according to a registration statement lodged with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The filing proposes renaming the Grayscale Dogecoin Trust as the Grayscale Dogecoin Trust ETF. “The Shares are expected to be listed on NYSE Arca under the ticker symbol ‘GDOG,’” the company said. The move is contingent on SEC approval of both the fund’s registration and a separate NYSE Arca application to list the shares. If cleared, GDOG would be the first U.S.-listed Dogecoin ETF, expanding Grayscale’s roster of digital asset funds beyond its high-profile bitcoin and ether products. Grayscale is not alone. Competitors including Bitwise and Rex-Osprey have also filed to bring Dogecoin ETFs to market, underscoring a wave of applications for exchange-traded crypto products. In recent months, the SEC has received filings spanning other large-cap tokens such as Solana and XRP, a marked shift from its historically defensive stance. The change in tone reflects a broader policy pivot. Under the Biden administration, the SEC resisted spot crypto ETFs until a federal court ruled in August 2023 that its rejection of Grayscale’s bitcoin ETF was “arbitrary and capricious.” That decision paved the way for the approval of spot bitcoin ETFs in January 2024, followed by ether ETFs in July 2024. In July this year, the SEC went further, authorizing in-kind creations and redemptions for crypto ETPs — a crucial step in aligning them with traditional commodity ETFs. Grayscale has a head start. The firm launched its Dogecoin Trust in the private placement market, giving it a pool of assets that could be converted if GDOG goes live. The company is also familiar with the regulatory gauntlet: its flagship GBTC fund became the world’s first U.S.-listed spot bitcoin ETF after its 2023 court victory. Dogecoin’s elevation to ETF status would be unusual given its origins. Created in 2013 as a joke by engineers Jackson Palmer and Billy Markus, the coin became a pop-culture phenomenon thanks to memes and endorsements from figures such as Elon Musk. Despite its inflationary design — about 5 billion new DOGE are minted annually — it ranks among the most actively traded cryptocurrencies and has already inspired listed exchange-traded products in Europe. The SEC now faces a decision on whether Dogecoin, like bitcoin and ether before it, should be granted ETF legitimacy in U.S. markets.

U.S.-based spot Bitcoin and Ether exchange-traded funds (ETFs) notched their strongest week of trading yet, buoyed by surging inflows into Ether products and fresh highs for the two largest cryptocurrencies. “Biggest week ever for them, thanks to Ether ETFs stepping up big,” said ETF analyst Eric Balchunas in a post on X on Friday. He noted that Ether ETFs recorded roughly $17 billion in weekly volume, smashing their previous record. “Man did it wake up in July,” he added, pointing out that the funds had seen muted demand for nearly a year after their 2024 debut. The surge came as Bitcoin climbed to a new all-time high of $124,000 on Thursday before easing back to around $117,600, down 5.5% from its peak. Ether also rallied to $4,784, just shy of its November 2021 record of $4,878, before sliding to $4,486 by Friday. Ether ETFs Wake Up On Monday, spot Ether ETFs logged their biggest single-day inflow ever, attracting $1.01 billion. Across the first half of August, net inflows have topped $3 billion, making it the second-strongest month since launch. Balchunas compared the sudden activity to “cramming one year’s worth of action into six weeks,” underscoring renewed investor interest in Ethereum after a long stretch of dormancy. Analysts say the pattern mirrors the surge Bitcoin experienced after its own ETFs went live in early 2024. Bitcoin ETFs hit new highs of $73,679 within two months of their debut. Crypto strategist Michael van de Poppe, founder of MN Trading Capital, said the market still has room to run: “There’s way more to come for this cycle.” Still, some urge caution. Jake Kennis, analyst at blockchain analytics firm Nansen, told Cointelegraph that while Ether is close to a new record, it could take weeks or months for the token to firmly break above its all-time high. For now, the surge in ETF volumes suggests Wall Street is warming to digital assets once again — and that Ether is finally joining Bitcoin in leading the charge.

Current and former employees of OpenAI are in talks to sell nearly $6 billion worth of shares in the ChatGPT maker, in a secondary transaction that could value the company at $500 billion, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Saturday. The prospective deal, which involves investors SoftBank Group, Thrive Capital, and Dragoneer Investment Group, would mark a sharp jump from OpenAI’s last valuation of about $300 billion. Bloomberg News first reported the development, noting that discussions remain in early stages and the size of the sale could still change. All three firms are existing OpenAI backers. SoftBank has also been a leading player in OpenAI’s $40 billion primary funding round. Fueled by its flagship ChatGPT product, OpenAI’s revenue doubled in the first seven months of 2025, reaching an annualized run rate of $12 billion and is on track to hit $20 billion by year-end, Reuters reported earlier this month. The company, backed by Microsoft, now has about 700 million weekly active users, up from 400 million in February, highlighting its rapid growth in both consumer and enterprise adoption. If finalized, the deal would represent one of the largest employee-led secondary sales in the tech sector, offering early staff and insiders a chance to cash out in the world’s most valuable artificial intelligence company. The share sale follows a primary funding round earlier this year also led by Japan’s SoftBank, which is still working to complete its $22.5 billion portion of the raise. Other participants in the raise include Blackstone, TPG, Sequoia Capital, Fidelity, Andreessen Horowitz, Altimeter Capital, Coatue, D1 Capital, Thrive Capital, and Tiger Global. With competition for AI talent intensifying, tech firms are offering hefty packages and equity opportunities. Meta has reportedly made a multi-billion-dollar offer to woo Scale AI’s young CEO Alexandr Wang to head a new AI division. Meanwhile, other private tech companies like ByteDance, Databricks, and Ramp have also turned to secondary sales to reset valuations and reward employees.

Gemini Space Station Inc., the cryptocurrency exchange and custodian founded by billionaire twins Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has filed for an initial public offering on the Nasdaq, becoming the latest digital-asset firm to tap public markets. The New York-based company plans to trade under the ticker symbol GEMI, according to its S-1 filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, and Morgan Stanley are among the lead underwriters. Gemini’s filing revealed widening losses even as revenue declined. The company reported a net loss of $158.5 million on $142.2 million in revenue in 2024. Losses deepened further in the first half of 2025, totaling $282.5 million on just $67.9 million in revenue. Cash reserves fell from $341.5 million at the end of 2024 to $161.9 million by June 30, 2025. Gemini said it plans to use IPO proceeds for general corporate purposes and to repay debt. The company will adopt a dual-class share structure, leaving the Winklevoss twins with majority voting control through Class B shares. IPO Wave in Crypto The listing would make Gemini the third publicly traded U.S. crypto exchange, following Coinbase and Bullish. It comes amid a string of crypto IPOs fueled by friendlier regulation under the Trump administration. In June, stablecoin issuer Circle raised $1.2 billion in its Nasdaq debut, with shares soaring 167% above their $31 IPO price. Earlier this month, Bullish, led by former NYSE president Tom Farley, raised $1.1 billion and saw its stock more than double on opening day. Gemini’s offering coincides with improving sentiment in Washington. The passage of the GENIUS Act, which sets a U.S. framework for stablecoins, and a more supportive stance from regulators have bolstered investor confidence. Gemini, founded in 2014, operates a regulated crypto exchange, custody business, the U.S. dollar-pegged Gemini Dollar (GUSD) stablecoin, and a crypto rewards credit card. It currently supports over 70 cryptocurrencies across 60 countries. “Investor focus will be on how Gemini differentiates itself in trading and custody, how strong its moat is, and whether it can scale sustainably against competitors like Coinbase,” said Michael Ashley Schulman, CIO at Running Point Capital.

Crypto scalping is one of the most active ways to trade in the volatile cryptocurrency market. This technique involves executing numerous small transactions throughout the day to capitalize on minor price fluctuations, with traders occasionally holding their assets for just seconds or minutes. Blockchain technology is changing the way money flows, and it provides a safe and open platform that makes crypto trading possible. According to the Harvard Business Review, blockchain technology is revolutionizing finance by reducing the cost, time, and hacking risk of traditional systems. This directly helps crypto scalpers by speeding up transaction settlements and lowering expenses.  Crypto scalping is a good way for beginners to get into active trading, and for pros, it gives them access to advanced tools that can help them grow their businesses.  We’ll talk about methods at both levels in this essay, with a focus on how blockchain technology supports the crypto ecosystem. Scalping works best in the crypto market when there is a lot of liquidity and volatility. Blockchain technology makes sure that ledgers can’t be changed and networks are decentralized.  This makes crypto assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum significant for quick trades. If you’re new to crypto or have been trading for a while, knowing these tactics can help you deal with the fast-paced world of crypto. What Is Crypto Scalping? Crypto scalping is a type of high-frequency trading in which traders try to make money off of minor price swings rather than long-term trends. Scalpers perform dozens or even hundreds of trades every day, taking advantage of bid-ask spreads, breakouts, or changes in momentum. This is different from day trading or swing trading.  The secret to success is being quick and accurate, as the profit each trade is usually relatively small—between 0.1% and 0.5%—but it adds up over time. At its foundation, crypto scalping takes advantage of the fact that cryptocurrencies are quite volatile and that blockchain technology makes this even more so by being decentralized. This system cuts out intermediaries, which lets scalpers make transactions almost instantly, which is very important for them.  For example, blockchain technology cuts settlement times from days in traditional finance to seconds in crypto exchanges. This lets traders quickly enter and leave positions. Beginners should start with pairs that are very liquid, like BTC/USDT or ETH/USDT, to avoid slippage. More experienced traders might try altcoins for more volatility. But there are problems with crypto scalping. It requires keeping an eye on the market all the time, being emotionally stable, and making decisions quickly. The method works for people who are used to working in high-stress situations, since even little mistakes might cost them money because of trading fees. What Blockchain Technology Does for Crypto Trading Blockchain technology is what makes the crypto world work. It provides the necessary infrastructure for scalping to function effectively. Blockchain technology enhances transparency and security by creating unchangeable ledgers dispersed across various networks.  This reduces the likelihood of fraud, a significant issue in the financial sector. This allows traders to trust the price data and transaction integrity in crypto markets, which is crucial for scalping that requires split-second accuracy. Blockchain technology also makes it easier for retail traders to get started. Blockchain technology makes decentralized exchanges (DEXs) cheaper and easier to use than centralized exchanges.  This means that new traders can practice scalping without having to pay a lot of money. For professionals, smart contracts using blockchain technology let them use automated algorithms to make trades based on set circumstances without any human involvement. Blockchain technology is changing crypto scalping as it gets better by working with AI and machine learning to make predictions. This synergy enables scalpers to spot micro-trends, which makes their strategies even better in the highly competitive crypto space. Essential Tools and Signals for Crypto Scalping You need the correct tools to be good at crypto scalping. Beginners could start with simple charting systems like TradingView, which give real-time data on crypto pairs. Important signs are: Moving Averages (MA): The Simple Moving Average (SMA) and the Exponential Moving Average (EMA) are two tools that can help you spot patterns. A 5-period EMA crossing, for instance, can show when to enter a trade. The Relative Strength Index (RSI): It shows when something is overbought or oversold. If the value is above 70, it means to sell; if it’s below 30, it means to purchase. Bollinger Bands: Shows how volatile the market is; scalpers trade based on bounces off the bands when the market is going up and down. Volume Indicators: Confirm price changes; high volume backs up breakout plans. Professionals typically utilize complex software like crypto trading bots (like Cryptohopper) to automate their work and search many marketplaces at once. These technologies work with APIs on exchanges like Binance to make sure that trades happen quickly and efficiently thanks to blockchain technology. Beginner’s Strategies For people who are new to crypto scalping, it is essential to keep things simple. Use a demo account to experiment without risking your money. Here are some easy-to-follow tips for beginners: Range Trading: Use 1–5 minute charts to find support and resistance levels. Use Bollinger Bands to confirm ranges and buy at support and sell at resistance. This works effectively in sideways crypto markets because it limits exposure. Bid-Ask Spread Scalping: Make money by taking advantage of the difference between the purchase and sell prices on pairs with a lot of liquidity. Place limit orders to get spreads. This is a good strategy for novices because it doesn’t involve as much guesswork. Momentum Scalping: Use the RSI to see how strong the price is and enter trades when it goes up quickly. Once the momentum starts to dissipate, get out immediately and aim for 0.2–0.5% gains every trade. Beginners should only make 10 to 20 trades a day and focus on the most significant crypto assets to gain confidence. Add to the security of your data by confirming it on-chain, which is a feature of blockchain technology.  Managing risk is very important: Set your stop-losses 0.5% below where you entered and your take-profits 1% above. Don’t take on too much debt, since crypto prices can fluctuate rapidly. Advanced Strategies for Experts Traders with more experience can use more advanced crypto scalping methods, which are commonly automated for speed: Breakout Scalping: Trade breakouts from critical levels with a lot of volume confirmation. For accuracy, use tick charts to enter on retests and quit at the next resistance. Mean Reversion Scalping: When prices move away from averages, you make counter-trend trades via Bollinger Bands or Stochastic Oscillators. Pros use this with AI bots to do quick math. Arbitrage Scalping: Take advantage of price disparities between exchanges or pairs, like triangle arbitrage on DEXs. This is where algorithmic bots come in, using blockchain technology to enable cross-chain transfers immediately. High-Frequency Trading (HFT): Use setups with very low latency to make hundreds of trades, paying attention to the depth of the order book and small patterns. This advanced method needs specific algorithms and is only for professionals with financed accounts. Pros should use several techniques and slowly increase their holdings as their capital rises. Bots help decrease emotional bias and let Bitcoin markets run all the time. Managing Risk and Following Best Practices Without good risk controls, no crypto scalping approach is failsafe. Use position size based on volatility to keep the risk of each transaction to 1–2% of your portfolio. Use trailing stops to protect your winnings and set daily loss limitations (like 3%) to avoid excessive losses. Backtesting techniques on past data, not trading when there isn’t much liquidity, and keeping up with crypto news that could cause volatility are all beneficial ways to do things. Use blockchain technology’s on-chain analytics to get real-time information about market sentiment. Emotional discipline is essential for both beginners and experts. Stick to your goal and don’t trade for retribution. Spread your risk by investing in various assets, and think about using financed programs to grow your business without using your own money. Crypto scalping can be a fun way to make quick money, but it requires talent, tools, and a lot of knowledge about the markets. Traders may make their methods more efficient and secure by using blockchain technology. No matter if you’re new to range trading or an expert using HFT bots, the key to success is to practice often and minimize your risks.  Blockchain technology is continuously improving, and the future of crypto scalping seems bright. It will open up even more new ways to trade. In the world of crypto, remember to start small, keep learning, and trade responsibly.

The U.S. Federal Reserve said on Friday it will wind down a special oversight program launched last year to monitor banks’ cryptocurrency and fintech activities, folding that work back into its regular supervision process. The “novel activities supervision program,” created in August 2023, focused on banks providing deposits, payments, and lending services to crypto-related companies and fintechs. The Fed described it as “risk-focused” when launched, citing a need to understand emerging business lines tied to distributed ledger technology. “Since the Board started its program to supervise certain crypto and fintech activities in banks, the Board has strengthened its understanding of those activities, related risks, and bank risk management practices,” the Fed said in its notice. “As a result, the Board is integrating that knowledge… back into the standard supervisory process.” The decision does not necessarily signal a retreat from oversight, but it comes as the Trump administration takes a softer line on digital assets. Since January, the Securities and Exchange Commission has dropped several investigations into crypto firms, and Treasury officials have aligned with White House plans for a national crypto reserve. The Fed’s leadership has also become a political talking point. President Donald Trump frequently criticized Chair Jerome Powell over interest rate policy. Powell’s term as chair runs until May 2026, though he remains a Fed governor until January 2028. Separately, Fed Governor Adriana Kugler resigned on Aug. 8. Trump has tapped Stephen Miran, chair of the Council of Economic Advisors, to fill the vacancy temporarily before making a permanent pick in January. The Fed also rescinded prior guidance that discouraged banks from engaging with cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. The regulator withdrew its 2022 supervisory letter that required banks to pre-notify regulators about crypto-related activities, along with separate 2023 guidance on stablecoin services. Going forward, banks’ crypto activities will be monitored through the standard supervisory process rather than through additional reporting. The Fed, along with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), also rolled back earlier statements warning of the risks associated with crypto asset exposures, particularly fraud and scams.

The crypto industry is well known for its incentive structure, offering participants payment for their contributions or engagement within its ecosystem. One of the many inventive structures put in place is through Learn-to-Earn initiatives, which reward learners for acquiring crypto-related skill sets. One reason behind incentivizing learning is the belief that these learners are likely to use their skills to help grow the ecosystem for the better—ensuring that talent is readily available. Now, let’s dig into what Learn-to-Earn platforms actually are, why they’re important, and how to approach them. Key Takeaways Learn-and-earn platforms merge education with crypto rewards, making blockchain learning engaging and practical. They cover diverse topics—from blockchain basics to advanced DeFi strategies and Web3 trends. Rewards are usually small but add up over time and can spark deeper involvement in the crypto space. Choosing reputable platforms ensures both quality education and safety from scams. In 2025, these programs remain a valuable on-ramp for beginners and a skill-refresh tool for experienced crypto users. What Is a Learn-to-Earn Platform Learn-to-Earn platforms are educational programs in the crypto and blockchain space that reward participants with cryptocurrency or digital assets for completing learning activities. They combine education with incentives, turning the process of understanding blockchain concepts, decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, or specific crypto projects into an earning opportunity. Top 5 Learn-and-Earn Crypto Platforms in 2025 1. Coinbase Learn and EarnCoinbase remains one of the most established platforms for Learn-to-Earn. Users can complete short video lessons and quizzes—typically lasting just a few minutes—to earn actual cryptocurrency such as NEAR, GRT, or AMP, often valued at up to $24 per module. It’s beginner-friendly, globally accessible (though some regional restrictions apply), and offers direct rewards to your Coinbase wallet. 2. Binance Learn & EarnAs the world’s largest crypto exchange, Binance offers a robust Learn-to-Earn program with a wide range of educational content—from blockchain basics to advanced DeFi topics. Upon completing lessons and quizzes, users receive tokens or stablecoins directly to their accounts. It’s highly dynamic, with frequent new modules and global support. 3. CoinMarketCap EarnCoinMarketCap, a neutral crypto data aggregator, has become a Learn-to-Earn hub. Users watch short videos about various blockchain projects (like The Sandbox, FIO, and 1inch) and complete quizzes to earn crypto—typically around $5 per campaign. It’s great for discovering emerging projects. 4. BitDegree Learn & EarnBitDegree focuses on blockchain education and reward-based learning. Not only can users earn crypto (sometimes through “Learn Drops”), but they may also unlock discounts on hardware wallets like Ledger (e.g., 10% off). Courses often include practical Web3 topics like KyberSwap or FIO. 5. Robinhood Crypto Learn & EarnAvailable primarily in the U.S., Robinhood offers quick, mobile-friendly lessons paired with quizzes—rewarding users with small amounts of cryptocurrencies like AVAX, USDC, or BTC (usually under $3 per module). Integration with Robinhood’s all-in-one investing ecosystem is a plus. Top Advantages of Learn-to-Earn Platforms Free Access to Crypto: One of the biggest appeals of Learn-to-Earn platforms is that they let users acquire cryptocurrency without spending their own money. By simply completing educational tasks, anyone can start building a portfolio, making it a safe entry point for beginners who want to explore the market without risking capital. Structured, Beginner-Friendly Education: These programs provide short, accessible lessons that break down complex blockchain concepts into easy-to-understand formats. For newcomers, this guided approach reduces the intimidation factor and ensures they understand the basics before diving deeper into crypto. Exposure to New and Emerging Projects: Many lessons focus on specific tokens or blockchain platforms that are still gaining traction. This early exposure can give users a head start in discovering potential growth projects before they reach mainstream popularity. Low Risk with Potential Portfolio Diversification: Since the rewards are free, there’s no risk of losing invested funds. Over time, the tokens earned can diversify a user’s holdings, potentially leading to long-term gains if some of the projects succeed. Incentive to Keep Learning: The reward system gamifies education, turning learning into a motivating and repeatable activity. This can help users stay engaged, deepen their knowledge, and continuously expand their understanding of the crypto ecosystem. Top Disadvantages of Learn-to-Earn Platforms Small and Inconsistent Rewards: While the concept is attractive, most rewards are modest—often under $20 per course—and can run out quickly when demand is high. This limits the financial benefit for users who join late or expect significant earnings. Geographic Restrictions and KYC Requirements: Many platforms require identity verification and restrict access to certain countries due to regulatory constraints. This means not everyone can participate, and privacy-conscious users may be deterred. Token Price Volatility: The value of earned tokens can fluctuate dramatically, sometimes losing half their value in a short time. While you’re not risking your own funds, this volatility can reduce the perceived value of rewards. Marketing-Driven Content: Lessons are often sponsored by the projects themselves, leading to overly positive portrayals. This can result in biased information that doesn’t highlight potential risks or downsides. Limited Educational Depth: Most programs focus on surface-level explanations to appeal to beginners, which can leave more advanced learners wanting more. Those seeking in-depth technical knowledge will need to look beyond Learn-to-Earn platforms. What Can Be Learned on a Learn-to-Earn Platform Learn-to-Earn platforms cover blockchain basics, cryptocurrency fundamentals, and DeFi concepts such as lending, staking, and liquidity pools. They also include project overviews, security best practices, and emerging Web3 trends like NFTs, Metaverse applications, AI-blockchain use cases, and asset tokenization. Some now offer advanced topics in blockchain development, smart contract programming, marketing strategies, and product management for Web3 projects. Bottom Line Learn-to-Earn platforms have become a gateway for millions to explore cryptocurrency while gaining tangible rewards. They bridge education and adoption, offering both newcomers and seasoned users a way to expand their knowledge, discover emerging projects, and develop practical skills in blockchain technology. As the sector matures, expect these programs to move beyond basic tutorials into advanced, career-relevant topics—making them not just a source of free crypto, but a valuable tool for building expertise in the Web3 economy. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is a learn-and-earn crypto platform?It’s a platform that rewards users with cryptocurrency or tokens for completing educational modules, quizzes, or interactive tasks related to blockchain and Web3. Are rewards from learn-and-earn programs taxable?Yes, in most jurisdictions, rewards are considered taxable income. It’s best to keep track and consult local tax regulations. Do I need prior blockchain knowledge to join?No, most platforms cater to beginners, though some offer advanced modules on development, DeFi, and Web3 marketing. Can I earn a significant income through these platforms?They’re best for supplemental earnings and education, not as a primary income source. Rewards vary by platform and topic. Are learn-and-earn platforms safe?Generally, yes—when using reputable platforms. Always verify authenticity to avoid phishing scams or fake reward schemes.