Hong Kong now allows cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum as proof of net worth for its investment visa. However, crypto cannot be used for the required investment after visa approval.
AnaisPi Network will launch its Open Network on 20 February 2025, ending its Enclosed Mainnet phase. With 10.14 million migrations and 19 million verified Pioneers, this transition unlocks Pi’s ecosystem for real-world use, enabling integration with other compliant systems.
CatherineWorld Liberty Financial, backed by the Trump family, launched a strategic token reserve to support cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, aiming to stabilize the market and strengthen DeFi. This initiative is part of the family's growing influence in the crypto industry, with WLF already accumulating significant assets and making moves to connect crypto with mainstream investors.
WeatherlyHoliday scams in the UK are rising, with AI-generated images and social media making it easier for fraudsters to deceive consumers. Many holidaymakers, especially young people, are falling victim to scams due to the allure of cheap deals and influencer promotions.
WeatherlyCertiK audited the code behind a stablecoin used by Huione, a platform linked to human trafficking and illegal activities. The firm has apologised and promised to improve its vetting process after failing to fully investigate the project's risks.
AnaisOpenAI is launching GPT-5 to enhance usability, but CEO Sam Altman warned that users may eventually need to cover compute costs which has sparked criticism. Is Altman that hard up for money?
CatherineEstonian nationals Sergei Potapenko and Ivan Turogin have agreed to surrender all claims to digital assets seized by US authorities as part of their plea agreement. To date, $350 million has already been returned to victims.
KikyoThe US released Russian national Alexander Vinnik in a prisoner swap for American teacher Marc Fogel, who was detained in Russia on drug charges. Vinnik was convicted of laundering billions through his cryptocurrency exchange BTC-e.
AnaisAdobe’s Firefly Video Model enters the AI video space, competing with OpenAI’s Sora and startup Runway. Its key advantage lies in its seamless integration with Premiere Pro, giving it a potential edge in professional video editing. But will it challenge OpenAI, or remain a limited competitor?
CatherineEthereum's Pectra upgrade, set for March 2025, will improve scalability, reduce gas fees, and enhance user experience with features like Account Abstraction and Layer 2 storage improvements. Key changes also include larger validator staking and security upgrades, positioning Ethereum for better performance in the blockchain space.
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