Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse’s meeting with Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago signals a strong start to 2025, driven by legal victories and XRP optimism. Ripple CLO Stuart Alderoty also praised the beef bourguignon. With Trump’s ongoing meetings with tech leaders, what’s next on the menu and agenda?
KikyoGetty Images and Shutterstock are merging in a $3.7 billion deal to create a leading visual content company. This merger aims to strengthen their position against the growing influence of AI in the digital content market.
AnaisFinnish authorities have confiscated over $2.6 million in luxury watches from Hex founder Richard Heart, who is facing allegations of tax evasion and assault. As officials intensify their search, Heart’s whereabouts remain unknown.
CatherineMcAfee launched its Scam Detector at CES 2025, using AI to help users identify and stop scams in texts, emails, and videos. The tool includes a deepfake detector and will be available to McAfee customers in spring 2025 at no extra cost.
WeatherlyGelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) in Bhutan has added Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Binance Coin to its strategic reserves to strengthen its economy and embrace digital assets. The move follows the introduction of new laws to regulate digital asset services and is part of Bhutan's broader strategy to expand its role in the cryptocurrency market.
AnaisAs his SEC term ends, Gary Gensler reiterates his criticism of crypto, stressing the need for strict regulation and citing 100 enforcement actions. Is this frustration or justified caution?
CatherineDo Kwon’s fraud trial over the $40 billion Terra LUNA collapse is set for 26 January 2026, in the US, delayed by six terabytes of evidence, encrypted phones, and untranslated Korean documents. He has one week to request an earlier date. Will this delay benefit him or prolong his legal battle?
KikyoSmartOSC and Avalanche have launched Vietnam's first blockchain-based loyalty program with a major coffee chain, aiming to improve customer engagement. The partnership seeks to drive broader blockchain adoption across industries in Vietnam.
WeatherlyIn 2025, Thailand will launch a Bitcoin payment pilot in Phuket to simplify transactions, enhance visitor convenience, and boost tourism and local businesses.
CatherineChina plans to build a blockchain-powered national data infrastructure by 2029, focusing on secure data exchange and privacy protection. The initiative includes pilot projects, blockchain-based data markets, and advanced security measures, with significant investment expected over the next five years.
Anais