CryptoTale News

Chainalysis report claims that Iranians are withdrawing Bitcoin from exchanges and stashing it in their personal wallets.

To combat the currency crisis Irans’s Central Government has bought over $500 million in dollar-backed digital assets.

Amid the geopolitical tensions, Iran’s crypto ecosystem has grown to nearly $7.78 billion in 2025.

According to a report by blockchain analytics company Elliptic, the Central Bank of Iran bought more than $500 million in dollar-backed digital assets in the past year to mitigate a currency crisis and bypass US sanctions. Iran has also begun offering cryptocurrency payments for overseas weapons contracts, signaling a shift in how sanctioned states conduct trade. 

The current widespread battling movements have caused the Iranian rial to plummet by 90%, and this has created a new trend among the public. Chainalysis’s report provided insights into this matter. 

As per the analysis, the Iranians are withdrawing Bitcoin from exchanges and storing it in their personal wallet. This act is a response to the ongoing currency crisis in the country. Moreover, the geopolitical uncertainty has become a contributor to the growth of the crypto ecosystem in Iran.

Iran’s crypto ecosystem has grown to nearly $7.78 billion in 2025, which is a fast-paced growth compared to the previous year. The IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) on-chain activity alone contributed to over 50% of Iran’s total crypto ecosystem in Q4 of 2025.

Reports cite that Iran’s digital asset activity is tied to several major domestic and geopolitical events over the past couple of years. This includes the Kerman bombings in January 2024, Iran’s missile strikes against Israel in October 2024, and the 12-day Iran-Israel war in June 2025.

Related: Iran Rial Collapse Triggers Protests as Currency Hits Record

Cause of The Economic Collapse of Iran

The recent economic collapse has its roots starting from 1979. Since then, Iran was under various sanctions. The country faced enhanced international sanctions, including an arms embargo, trade controls, asset freezes, travel bans, and export restrictions between 2006 and 2010, due to its nuclear non-compliance.

During 2019 and 2020, the US santions was further extended to the finance and banking sector. The issues of Iran further worsened when U.S. President Donald Trump’s campaign focused on imposing enforcement mechanisms on those acting in violation of existing sanctions. The primary aim of the campaign is to drive Iran’s oil exports to zero. 

The strain on Iran’s economy has been severe, fueling prolonged inflation and eroding the living standards of ordinary citizens. These pressures recently spilled into widespread unrest, with protests breaking out in cities across the country from December 28, 2025, and continuing to this day. The demonstrations have been met with a harsh response from authorities, with reports indicating that more than 2,000 people have been killed during the crackdown.

The Turn To Digital Currency

“During the recent mass protests, Iranians have significantly increased withdrawals of Bitcoin to personal wallets, possibly as a flight to safety amid currency collapse and political instability,” said Chainalysis.

It was not just Iran that turned to digital assets. The IRGC also significantly contributed to on-chain activity during Q4, 2025. 

“Notably, it is not just ordinary Iranians who have turned to crypto-the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has extensively leveraged digital assets to finance its malign activities,” read the report.

In this way, the external and internal pressure of the country caused the country to turn to digital assets.

The post Iran’s Rial Collapse Triggers Activity in Crypto Ecosystem appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Iran’s Rial Collapse Triggers Activity in Crypto Ecosystem appeared first on Cryptotale.

The PI token trades near $0.18 as wider market pressure drives sharper losses

Heavy token unlocks and weak liquidity keep the PI token stuck in a fragile setup

RSI shows deep oversold levels, yet sellers still dominate near key barriers

The PI token slid again, holding near $0.1837 at press time after another mild dip over the past day. The move extends a bruising stretch for the token, which is now down by 11% on the week and roughly 90% from last year’s levels. The decline mirrors an uneasy mood across the wider market, where risk appetite has thinned, and smaller altcoins have struggled to find buyers.

The tone has grown heavier in recent sessions. Outflows from U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, paired with shifting expectations for Federal Reserve policy, have tightened conditions across the board. Even sturdier assets felt the pullback, leaving higher-risk names such as PI more exposed to abrupt selling.

Broader Pressure Spills Into Smaller Caps

Total crypto market capitalization slipped about 0.87% in 24 hours, enough to reinforce the sense that sentiment has tilted defensive. Similarly, Bitcoin’s move lower followed ETF withdrawals of roughly $1.22 billion in a week, a figure that caught attention and stirred talk of investors seeking steadier ground.

Source: SoSoValue

Strong GDP data added to the mix by softening hopes for quick rate cuts, giving traders one more reason to ease off exposure. A look at the Fear and Greed Index, sitting at 34, reflected that caution.

Source: CoinMarketCap

Conditions like this often widen the gap between major tokens and thinner altcoins. PI’s tight liquidity leaves little room for error, and even modest trades can push prices farther than expected.

Structural Friction Persists in the PI Ecosystem

Away from macro forces, PI faces long-running issues inside its ecosystem. More than 1.2 billion tokens are scheduled to unlock in the next year, an overhang that continues to shadow price action. On the other hand, demand has not risen at the same pace, leaving supply growth to do most of the talking.

Source: PiScan

Notably, market access remains narrow. PI is still absent from tier-one exchanges, keeping liquidity shallow and limiting participation. That limited reach, combined with the large supply controlled by the Pi Foundation, has raised ongoing questions about concentration.

Updates such as the recent Pi App Studio rollout were noted, but the market reacted little, with structural concerns continuing to dominate the conversation.

Technical Picture Offers a Brief Pause, but Not Relief

On the chart, PI touched a record low of $0.15 earlier in the week before bouncing. A double bottom appeared around that zone, helped by a hammer-shaped candle that signaled some resistance to further selling. However, the relief was short and tentative.

Source: TradingView

The price is now drifting toward a familiar barrier at $0.19 to $0.20, a former support shelf that flipped into resistance after December’s breakdown. Moreover, its position near the 23.60% Fibonacci mark only strengthens the level’s influence. Unless the token pushes cleanly through that range, the broader downtrend remains intact.

Not to leave out, PI continues to trade beneath all major moving averages, and the Supertrend signal still tilts negative. None of these points point to a firm recovery. Thus, a revisit of the prior low near $0.15 sits within reach if sellers regain momentum.

Related: SAND Price Jumps 11% as Two-Week Bullish Streak Extends

Momentum Gauges Highlight Room to Move

The one counterweight, however, is the Relative Strength Index, now hovering around 26. That reading reflects heavy selling rather than renewed strength, but it does suggest space for short-term rotation if buyers reappear.

For any meaningful recovery, PI would need to reclaim the $0.19-$0.20 band, stabilize, and then work toward higher levels at $0.23 and $0.26. For now, sentiment remains cautious, supply pressure lingers, and the burden rests on the chart to show that sellers have finally exhausted their advantage.

The post PI Holds Near $0.18 as Bearish Pressure Meets Oversold Signs appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post PI Holds Near $0.18 as Bearish Pressure Meets Oversold Signs appeared first on Cryptotale.

Ledger targets a $4B valuation as demand for secure self-custody wallets accelerates.

Rising crypto hacks and fraud drive stronger demand for offline hardware security.

Goldman, Jefferies, and Barclays back Ledger’s planned push into US public markets.

Ledger is preparing for a potential U.S. initial public offering (IPO) that could value the company at more than $4 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.

The French crypto hardware wallet maker has engaged Goldman Sachs, Jefferies, and Barclays to advise on a U.S. listing. The people said a New York float could follow as soon as 2026.

NEWS: @Ledger eyes a New York IPO at a valuation above $4B, per the Financial Times. pic.twitter.com/P3wHqEmnxj

— CoinGecko (@coingecko) January 23, 2026

Ledger’s US IPO plan targets New York

Ledger, founded in Paris in 2014, markets itself as a consumer security brand in crypto custody. Ledger sells USB-like hardware wallets that keep private keys offline in cold storage, including Nano devices that connect to phones and computers. A report by the Financial Times said the company is preparing a U.S. listing that could value it above $4 billion. However, the timetable remains subject to change. 

The report also noted Ledger last carried a valuation of roughly $1.5 billion in 2023 following a fundraising round that included True Global Ventures and 10T Holdings. Chief Executive Officer Pascal Gauthier has also framed New York as central to crypto financing. In addition, the report said Ledger generated “triple-digit millions” in revenue in 2025.

Ledger security record and Nano X issues

Ledger’s public-market push arrives with attention on its security history. In a December 2020 update, the CEO said attackers stole about 1 million email addresses and 9,532 records with detailed personal data.

Let me rephrase:

Ledger, a French security company has been breached multiple times which resulted in its customers private data being leaked has lead to targeted thefts and millions stolen.

Current products have major issue like the battery for the Ledger Nano X.

Now Ledger…

— ZachXBT (@zachxbt) January 23, 2026

In early January 2026, Ledger said unauthorized access hit systems run by its e-commerce partner Global-e. The company said the incident exposed limited customer order and contact details. Ledger said the incident did not compromise wallets, devices, or recovery phrases. Still, the company warned users about phishing attempts tied to leaked purchase data.

Product reliability has also drawn attention from customers. Ledger’s support guidance addresses Ledger Nano X battery issues and outlines “battery conditioning” steps. Ledger has also added fees in parts of its ecosystem. Its Ledger Multisig documentation lists a $10 fixed fee for most transactions. It also lists a 0.05% variable fee for certain Ethereum transfers, on top of network fees.

The company links that push to Clear Signing, which it describes as readable transaction details before approval. Meanwhile, Chainalysis estimated scammers and fraudsters stole $17 billion in 2025, up from $13 billion in 2024. The Federal Bureau of Investigation said North Korea stole about $1.5 billion in virtual assets from Bybit on or about February 21, 2025. The FBI said it calls that activity “TraderTraitor.”

Wall Street banks line up as crypto listings regain traction

Ledger’s IPO planning comes as the sector tests public markets again. Recent deals have given bankers fresh reference points for pricing. Crypto custody firm BitGo debuted on the New York Stock Exchange on January 22, 2026, under the ticker BTGO. It priced its IPO at $18 per share and opened at $22.43.

Related: BitGo Prices IPO Above Range, Values Firm at $2.08 Billion

Reportedly, BitGo and selling shareholders raised about $212.8 million. Furthermore, BitGo’s debut valuation was about $2.59 billion after the early jump. BitGo’s shares later slipped back and closed at $18.49, according to market reporting. 

In addition, the report highlighted that Ledger’s plans pointed to a broader pipeline. It said firms such as Circle, Gemini, Bullish, Grayscale, and Kraken have pursued or explored U.S. listings. Ledger has not announced IPO terms or a filing date. Consequently, investors will watch for disclosures that clarify timing, structure, and security commitments as a public issuer.

The post Crypto Hardware Wallet Maker Ledger Explores $4B US IPO appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Crypto Hardware Wallet Maker Ledger Explores $4B US IPO appeared first on Cryptotale.

Japan’s bond yields surge and alter risk signals while gold rises during market stress.

Bitcoin lags gold as investors wait for clear liquidity action from the Bank of Japan.

BOJ bond support weakens the yen and strengthens gold demand across markets.

Gold prices rose while Bitcoin lagged in early 2026 as Japan’s bond market emerged as a key driver of global risk sentiment. Rising yields altered capital flows and investor positioning across assets. The Japanese government raised its alert level because bond market movements caused financial distress to investors. Officials confirmed that market conditions improved after the recent sell-off, but they recognized that rates, currencies, and risk assets continued to experience volatility.

On Friday, Japan’s two-year government bond yield reached a record 1.245%. The ten-year yield steadied near 2.25%, suggesting persistent upward pressure at the long end of the curve. Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama said authorities are monitoring markets with a high sense of urgency. She added that communication with investors remains critical to avoid disorderly moves.

According to Stockwits, Katayama said stress in the bond market has begun to ease. Still, investors remain sensitive to fiscal signals, bond supply dynamics, and monetary normalization.

Gold Rises Alongside Bonds in a Policy Stress Signal

Market researchers noted that rising Japanese yields no longer pressure gold through higher opportunity costs. Instead, gold and Japanese bonds have climbed together during the recent yield surge.

Delphi researcher Marcus said the shift reflects policy stress and balance sheet fragility rather than healthy normalization. He also noted that the one-year relationship between gold and Japan’s ten-year yield has turned positive.

Bitcoin is stalling while gold grinds higher.

The reason could be in Japanese bonds.

Normally rising yields pressure gold by increasing the opportunity cost of holding a non yielding asset.

When gold and yields move together, the market is pricing policy stress and balance… https://t.co/aPoHmdEg6B pic.twitter.com/IYmhg961by

— Delphi Digital (@Delphi_Digital) January 22, 2026

Gold traded at $4,596.32 per ounce early Friday. Retail chatter around gold-backed stablecoin Tether Gold stayed high while sentiment remained neutral on Stocktwits. Marcus said Japanese bond moves now act as a stress signal for global markets. For US risk assets, BOJ intervention has historically worked as a liquidity release valve.

When liquidity conditions stabilize, gold tends to benefit first during stress periods. This dynamic has supported gold’s edge higher during recent bond volatility.

Related: Japan Bond Yields Hit Record Highs: Is Crypto Going To Be Bullish?

Bitcoin Waits for BOJ Action as Liquidity Focus Grows

Bitcoin has not mirrored gold’s rally as investors wait for clearer signals from the Bank of Japan. Researchers say Bitcoin reacts more positively after credible BOJ intervention. Marcus said Bitcoin does not compete with gold during stress. Instead, it waits for policymakers to turn off the stress signal by smoothing the yield curve or controlling long-end yields.

Macro trader JustDario said the BOJ already moved to de-escalate bond stress. In one session, it purchased eight ¥50 billion bond tranches and lent ¥312 billion to banks. He said the ¥1.16 trillion liquidity support pressured the yen. The currency weakened to 158.8 per dollar, which reinforced gold’s role as a hedge.

The BOJ printed JPY to stop the collapse of the JGB market, now the JPY is logically depreciating as a result, although not as fast as it should be. Why? Because the Japanese government threat of direct FX intervention at ~160 vs USD successfully keeping money managers and… https://t.co/QX53zremcJ pic.twitter.com/pM49FTOIvh

— JustDario (@DarioCpx) January 22, 2026

Crypto analyst Quinten François said Bitcoin has never been this undervalued against gold on a long-term basis. He cited Bitcoin to gold power law models and called the ratio a rare opportunity.Investor Mark Chadwick said gold rallies often precede crypto gains. He pointed to 2017 and 2021 when gold rose first before Bitcoin and altcoins followed. As Japanese yields reshape risk signals, one question now guides markets: will decisive BOJ intervention unlock liquidity and shift momentum from gold toward Bitcoin?

The post Japan Bond Shock Lifts Gold While Bitcoin Awaits BOJ Signal appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Japan Bond Shock Lifts Gold While Bitcoin Awaits BOJ Signal appeared first on Cryptotale.

DOGE stays in a steep decline despite the Nasdaq ETF launch drawing weak early demand

Long liquidations rise as open interest falls, marking fading conviction in the market

Analysts highlight wedge and channel structures, suggesting long-range breakout potential

Dogecoin’s slide has stretched into another week, and the tone across markets remains heavy. The token has been drifting lower since early September, rarely finding enough strength to stabilize, let alone reverse course.

By mid-morning, DOGE hovered near $0.1244. The move shaved another percentage point off the day and pushed weekly losses to roughly 11%. Besides, its year-on-year performance tells a deeper story: a 64.67% decline that underlines just how persistent the trend has been.

Source: CoinMarketCap

Similarly, market depth continues to thin. DOGE’s market cap settles at $20.96 billion, yet trading activity looks weaker by the day. Volume slipped 42.9% in the last 24 hours to $832.53 million. That kind of contraction typically signals fatigue rather than preparation for a pivot.

And while traders had hoped for a spark from the 21Shares Dogecoin ETF, launched on Nasdaq on Jan. 22 under the ticker TDOG, no momentum followed. Instead, the debut landed quietly. The long run-up of anticipation ended in a textbook “buy the rumor, sell the news” fade, leaving markets exactly where they were: uninspired and drifting.

ETF Launch Brings Little Change

The absence of inflows after the ETF’s arrival became the clearest message of the week. Traders watching for institutional participation saw none. Without fresh orders to support spot demand, the bearish slope steepened. 

Within hours of the first session, analysts began treating the listing as a neutral event rather than a catalyst. Flow trackers now point to ETF subscription data as a key gauge for sentiment. But even that remains more of a monitoring exercise than a near-term trigger. For now, the market has simply shrugged.

Derivatives Data Shows Long Pressure

The derivatives tape adds another layer. Over the past day, liquidations reached $1.64 million, and most of that came from the long side, about $1.30 million versus $332.13K in short positions.

Source: CoinGlass

That imbalance suggests buyers were pushed out as prices slipped, reinforcing direction rather than challenging it. Open interest tells a similar story. It has eased to roughly $1.41 billion from this year’s peak of around $1.96 billion.

Source: CoinGlass

When OI falls this steadily, it often reflects participants stepping back, trimming exposure, and letting the market drift until conditions reset. None of that helps DOGE price build a base.

Analysts Point to Long-Term Wedge Structure

Even so, not every analyst sees this as a terminal slide. Ali Charts highlighted a long-running descending wedge he’s tracked for years, patterns that, in past cycles, eventually resolved with sharp breaks to the upside. His chart places DOGE near the lower boundary of this structure, almost pressed against the floor around the $0.124 area.

Dogecoin $DOGE tends to respect wedge structures, and a breakout from this one could be powerful. pic.twitter.com/aw17nIv1ws

— Ali Charts (@alicharts) January 22, 2026

He described prior wedge breakouts in 2017 and 2021 as precursors to strong rallies. The same setup now points to potential targets near $0.29, $0.55, and $1.10, though only if the price clears the upper line. At the moment, nothing confirms such a move.

Related: RIVER Price Hits $48 Record High Amid Rising Market Manipulation Scrutiny

Monthly Chart Shows a Rising Channel

Another analyst, Trader Tardigrade, turned to the monthly chart instead. His work shows DOGE holding a broad rising channel stretching across several years, with repeated pullbacks into support that later gave way to continuation moves.

Source: X

The recent test of that support, he noted, keeps the long-term structure intact. The trend of higher lows persists, even if day-to-day action suggests exhaustion. No formal target was attached, though the chart implies room for advance if the channel holds.

For now, DOGE remains shaped by the same forces that defined recent months: thinning interest, heavier long liquidations, and a lack of fresh capital. Until those conditions shift, the downtrend stays in control.

The post DOGE Bearish Trend Holds Firm Despite Analysts’ Bullish Calls appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post DOGE Bearish Trend Holds Firm Despite Analysts’ Bullish Calls appeared first on Cryptotale.

FIU orders Indian exchanges to stop handling anonymity-enhancing cryptocurrency tokens.

Privacy coins like Monero, Zcash, and Dash are now restricted under the guidelines.

Directive strengthens AML rules, wallet monitoring, and offshore crypto oversight.

India’s Financial Intelligence Unit has directed crypto exchanges to stop handling privacy-focused digital tokens, citing increased money laundering risks. The directive, issued earlier this month through updated compliance guidelines, targets anonymity-enhancing crypto assets traded on domestic platforms. The move involves exchanges, intermediaries, and regulators, aiming to curb untraceable transactions by restricting how such assets enter and exit the system.

FIU Targets Anonymity-Enhancing Crypto Assets

Under the updated guideline, the FIU instructed reporting entities to avoid deposits or withdrawals involving anonymity-enhancing crypto tokens. The guideline classifies these virtual digital assets as incompatible with existing risk-mitigation frameworks. According to the FIU, such assets conceal transaction origin, ownership, or value, raising compliance concerns.

In contrast, public blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum allow transaction tracing despite pseudonymous identities. However, privacy coins rely on advanced cryptography that blocks transaction visibility. Tokens such as Monero, Zcash, and Dash use stealth addresses and shielded transactions to hide recipients and transferred amounts.

Purushottam Anand, founder of Crypto Legal, said global regulators increasingly oppose these tokens due to traceability gaps. According to Anand, regulators now see anonymity-enhancing tokens as high-risk instruments rather than privacy tools. He added that the FIU directive aligns with this emerging global consensus.

The guideline further warns exchanges against allowing privacy coins through indirect tools. Notably, tumblers and mixers remain a concern because they obscure transaction trails. These tools pool funds from multiple users, breaking links between source and destination wallets.

Because of this, coins from sanctioned or blacklisted wallets may bypass detection. U.S. regulators, including OFAC and FinCEN, have previously flagged similar risks. Therefore, the FIU asked Indian platforms to remain alert to such methods.

Exchanges, Wallets, and Transaction Monitoring

Although exchanges in India lack a unified regulatory license, FIU registration remains mandatory for compliance. Consequently, the directive may effectively end privacy coin trading on recognized platforms. Some exchanges already limit withdrawals, though a few wallet transfers can still go through in certain cases. 

To close that loophole, the FIU has stepped up checks on self-custody wallets. Platforms are now required to gather details on transfers that involve unhosted wallets where users hold their own private keys. Moreover, the guideline allows exchanges to limit transactions involving wallets promising enhanced secrecy.

Sudhakar Lakshmanaraja, founder of Digital South Trust, said enforcement agencies face major tracking challenges once privacy coins leave regulated platforms. Based on his work with law enforcement, tracing such assets becomes nearly impossible outside controlled environments. Therefore, he said, the FIU balanced investment access with withdrawal restrictions.

Meanwhile, the directive also reflects broader compliance expansion. Exchanges must appoint AML officers, complete CERT-In audits, and share sender and receiver data. These rules apply even to self-custody wallet transfers, strengthening transaction transparency.

Global data support the regulatory concern. According to Chainalysis, on-chain scams reached at least $14 billion in 2025. This figure rose sharply from earlier 2024 estimates, which were later revised upward to $12 billion.

Related: RBI 2026 Rules Explained: What Every Indian Must Know

Offshore Crypto Profits 

Together with exchange compliance, banks now face challenges in handling offshore crypto proceeds. Some residents invested years ago in foreign platforms and later liquidated holdings abroad. When proceeds return to India, banks must assess compliance without clear FEMA guidance.

One Indian bank recently contacted the Foreign Exchange Dealers’ Association of India after receiving unclaimed funds from the U.S. Treasury. The funds followed the liquidation of a dormant overseas crypto account belonging to an Indian investor.

Banks remain cautious because RBI guidance on cross-border crypto transactions remains limited. Many lenders already restrict the Liberalised Remittance Scheme for overseas crypto purchases. However, they still face uncertainty when sale proceeds arrive as foreign inward remittances.

Harshal Bhuta, partner at P. R. Bhuta & Co., explained that banks usually treat such inflows as normal remittances. However, enhanced KYC and source-of-funds checks apply because FEMA lacks a specific crypto framework. According to Bhuta, large or poorly documented inflows may be withheld or reported to regulators, including the FIU or Enforcement Directorate.

Lawmakers are still having wider talks on the issue. Parliamentary committees have looked at how other countries handle crypto, such as Japan’s rules on keeping customer funds separate and Russia’s limits on how much people can invest. For now, these examples are being studied to shape India’s thinking, even though none of them have been formally adopted yet.

India’s FIU action restricts privacy-focused crypto assets while reinforcing monitoring across exchanges, wallets, and banks. The directive addresses anonymity tools, transaction tracking, and offshore fund flows within existing legal structures. Together, these steps show how regulators are tightening controls while managing unresolved gaps in cross-border crypto handling.

The post India Tightens Rules on Privacy Cryptos Over Laundering Risks appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post India Tightens Rules on Privacy Cryptos Over Laundering Risks appeared first on Cryptotale.

Prosecutors found seized Bitcoin was missing after last year’s audit in custody.

Investigators link the loss to phishing tied to the exposed wallet access control.

The case emerges as courts confirm broader powers to seize digital assets nationwide.

South Korean prosecutors are investigating the disappearance of Bitcoin seized as criminal proceeds after an internal audit flagged missing assets under state custody. Authorities estimate the loss at approximately 70 billion won, or $48 million. A senior prosecution source told local media that the Bitcoin likely vanished during management last year.

Investigators now treat the case as a suspected phishing attack involving compromised storage controls. The incident emerged as South Korea expands legal authority over crypto markets. The case also arrived during intensified regulatory activity around digital assets and enforcement standards.   

JUST IN: South Korean prosecutors search for "lost" Bitcoin

– Prosecutors say a “significant” amount of BTC was lost while in state custody
– Loss likely occurred mid-2025, possibly via phishing
– Authorities refuse to disclose how much Bitcoin is missing pic.twitter.com/BexowaFnlX

— Bitcoin Archive (@BitcoinArchive) January 22, 2026

Audit Findings and Suspected Phishing Attack

Yonhap News reported Thursday that the Gwangju District Prosecutors’ Office confirmed the missing Bitcoin during a recent internal review. The assets came from a prior criminal case and no longer appear in official records.

Prosecutors believe the loss occurred in the middle of last year while officials stored and managed the Bitcoin. Investigators suspect phishing, though they declined to disclose exact amounts or current valuations during the ongoing probe.

Early evidence indicates that officials stored the Bitcoin on a portable USB device with a durable custody system. Reports also state that a wallet password reached a third party during a routine inspection, enabling unauthorized transfers.

Legal Context and Prior Precedents

The case surfaced shortly after a Supreme Court ruling reported on January 9 confirmed that Bitcoin held on exchanges can be seized under the Criminal Procedure Act. The ruling involved 55.6 BTC seized from a money laundering suspect.

That December decision reinforced earlier judgments that classify cryptocurrencies as intangible assets with economic value. A 2018 ruling first established that courts could seize crypto linked to criminal activity.

Later decisions expanded seizure authority further. Courts also confirmed that Bitcoin on domestic exchanges like Upbit and Bithumb qualifies for confiscation during criminal proceedings.

Broader Security Concerns and Industry Data

This marks the second major Bitcoin controversy tied to Gwangju authorities. In November 2021, 1,476 BTC disappeared during a police seizure from an illegal gambling site, with litigation still pending before the Supreme Court.

The present case differs from previous cases in that it does not involve police officers but instead involves their role as prosecutors. The case raises security concerns about two elements, which include internal controls and human vulnerabilities, but does not address blockchain system weaknesses and how secure are seized digital assets under state custody? 

The data shows that worldwide patterns exhibit identical characteristics. PeckShield reported that scam and phishing activities resulted in $1.37 billion of losses during 2025, representing a 64% increase from the previous year.

Related: South Korea To Lift 9-Year Ban On Corporate Crypto Access

Ledger announced a customer data breach that occurred because of a third-party payment processor. Over 16 million South Koreans now hold crypto accounts, representing approximately one-third of the population, as regulators increase their oversight of the digital currency market. The case involves missing seized Bitcoin, which disappeared during state custody because of phishing attacks and inadequate internal security procedures. The situation establishes security risks that arise from the current methods authorities use to store and protect digital assets from confiscation. The situation creates trust problems, with accountability challenges for society, because governments create new rules to control and monitor digital currency activities. The incident shows that human mistakes pose a greater security risk to institutional cryptocurrency operations than actual blockchain technology weaknesses.

The post Seized Bitcoin Vanishes as South Korea Expands Crypto Control appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Seized Bitcoin Vanishes as South Korea Expands Crypto Control appeared first on Cryptotale.

Chainlink has acquired Atlas to expand SVR and raise DeFi revenue via multi-chain recapture.

Atlas integration extends Chainlink SVR to new chains, helping protocols reclaim MEV.

The deal accelerates SVR adoption across ecosystems and adds sustainable revenue for DeFi.

Chainlink has acquired Atlas from FastLane to expand its SVR solution and increase revenue opportunities across decentralized finance ecosystems. The move brings proven order flow technology directly under the Chainlink standard. It also marks a step toward scaling value recapture across multiple blockchains.

The acquisition includes Atlas technology and the onboarding of key Atlas personnel into Chainlink’s ecosystem. As a result, Atlas now exclusively supports Chainlink SVR. Existing Atlas users will follow a streamlined migration path to the Chainlink solution.

We’re proud to share that Atlas, our protocol for application specific orderflow auctions, has been acquired by @chainlink.

Atlas’s proven orderflow technology is now integrated into Chainlink SVR, enabling applications and protocols to capture and retain value more effectively.… pic.twitter.com/Jz43BO2xVy

— FastLane Labs (@0xFastLane) January 22, 2026

Chainlink said the integration expands SVR into new blockchain environments. SVR now operates on Arbitrum, Base, BNB Chain, Ethereum, and HyperEVM. Additional networks are expected to follow over time.

Atlas Strengthens SVR’s Multi-Chain Reach

Atlas, developed by FastLane, allows DeFi protocols to recover value via application-specific order flow auctions. These auctions often support liquidation processes. Protocols such as Compound and Venus already use Atlas technology.

Chainlink has now completely incorporated this system into SVR. The integration allows DeFi applications to recapture value from Chainlink Price Feeds. This value stems from the Maximal Extractable Value tied to oracle updates.

Chainlink SVR focuses on Oracle Extractable Value, also known as OEV. The system redirects value back to protocols instead of external actors. This creates a new revenue stream for participating applications.

According to Chainlink, SVR has already processed more than $460 million in liquidations. It has also recaptured over $10 million in OEV. These figures reflect adoption by major DeFi platforms.

Aave and Compound rank among the early adopters of SVR. The protocols use the system to improve economic efficiency during liquidations. The recaptured value supports both protocols and the Chainlink Network.

The revenue split model shares value between DeFi protocols and Chainlink. This structure aims to improve long-term sustainability. Chainlink said the Atlas acquisition accelerates this model across more chains.

FastLane Partnership And Ecosystem Impact

FastLane partnered with Chainlink to place Atlas under Chainlink’s stewardship. The firm cited Chainlink’s security and reliability record. Chainlink has enabled over $27 trillion in transaction value to date.

The network also secures more than 70% of the DeFi ecosystem. This scale influenced FastLane’s decision to migrate Atlas fully. Chainlink’s oracle infrastructure supports the system’s expansion.

Johann Eid, Chief Business Officer at Chainlink Labs, commented on the acquisition. He said the integration creates a more effective value recapture system. He added that the move helps expand SVR into new ecosystems faster.

Related: SBI Deepens Ties With Chainlink to Power Tokenized Assets

FastLane CEO Alex Watts echoed the view. He said the combination offers DeFi protocols a credible path to recapture on-chain value at scale. He noted that Chainlink is positioned to lead the OEV market.

Despite the acquisition, FastLane will continue operating independently. The company will remain a strategic partner to Chainlink. It will support Atlas operations and broader adoption efforts.

Existing Atlas users can transition to SVR using Chainlink documentation. Chainlink Labs will also provide upgrade support. This includes users migrating from the deprecated Atlas RedStone deployment. On the Ethereum mainnet, SVR will continue using Flashbots MEV-Share. Atlas technology enables SVR expansion beyond Ethereum.

This approach supports deployment across diverse blockchain environments. Chainlink said the acquisition strengthens its role in DeFi infrastructure. By expanding SVR, the network aims to unlock sustainable revenue for the wider DeFi economy.

The post Chainlink Acquires Atlas to Expand SVR and DeFi Revenue Push appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Chainlink Acquires Atlas to Expand SVR and DeFi Revenue Push appeared first on Cryptotale.

BOJ keeps benchmark rate at 0.75% while upgrading inflation and growth forecasts.

Yen weakness and rising bond yields increase risks for leveraged crypto positions.

Dissenting vote signals internal pressure for faster tightening and market caution.

Japan’s central bank kept interest rates unchanged on Friday, yet the decision quietly raised fresh risks for Bitcoin and crypto markets. The Bank of Japan held its benchmark rate at 0.75% in Tokyo on January 23, upgrading inflation and growth forecasts. While prices barely moved, the vote exposed internal policy strain, yen funding risks, and growing pressure on leveraged crypto positions.

BOJ Holds Rates as Inflation Outlook Turns Firmer

The Bank of Japan maintained its benchmark rate at 0.75% in an 8-1 vote, matching market expectations. Board member Hajime Takata dissented, arguing that rates should rise to 1% immediately. He cited stronger inflation pressures and improving global economic conditions.

However, the majority chose caution as political uncertainty grows ahead of Japan’s February 8 snap election. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi approved the dissolution of parliament the same day. As a result, the central bank faced competing pressures between monetary normalization and election timing.

Alongside the rate hold, the BOJ upgraded its economic outlook. The bank raised fiscal 2025 real GDP growth to 0.9% from 0.7%. It also lifted fiscal 2026 growth to 1.0%, citing trade support and a large stimulus package.

More importantly, inflation forecasts moved higher. Core CPI is now projected at 3.0% for 2025 and 2.2% for 2026. December headline inflation stood at 2.1%, marking 45 straight months above the 2% target.

Political Spending, Yen Weakness, and Bond Market Moves

Japan’s fiscal outlook added to the complexity. Prime Minister Takaichi centered her campaign on suspending the 8% food sales tax for two years. According to NHK, 45% of voters rank living costs as their top concern.

Her proposed $783 billion budget for the next fiscal year raised concerns about public debt. Notably, Japanese government bond yields climbed to multi-decade highs following the announcement. Japan’s 40-year bond yield fell slightly on Friday but remains elevated at 3.939%.

Meanwhile, the yen has weakened sharply. Since Takaichi took office in October, the yen has fallen 4.6% against the US dollar. On Friday, it traded near 158.54 per dollar, showing only modest strength after the BOJ decision.

Crypto markets showed a limited reaction. Bitcoin moved toward $90,000, while gold also traded higher. However, broader sentiment is cautious as US PCE inflation stayed elevated and Japan’s inflation slowed for the first time in four months.

Related: BOJ December Rate Hike to 0.75% Puts BTC Liquidity at Risk

Yen Carry Trades Keep Crypto Exposure in Focus

For years, investors borrowed low-yielding yen to fund higher-yielding assets, including cryptocurrencies. This structure, known as the yen carry trade, remains sensitive to BOJ policy shifts. So even small shifts in expectations can have real effects. Takata’s objection pointed to growing pressure inside the BOJ to raise rates sooner. At the same time, the bank’s higher inflation outlook strengthened the case for more hikes this year. Together, this drew attention to crypto trades that rely on cheap yen borrowing.

Past events make the concern more serious. In August 2024, Bitcoin fell hard when traders rushed to unwind yen-funded positions amid talk of BOJ rate hikes. That moment showed how moves in the yen can quickly force sell-offs.

For now, markets are calm. Still, policy signals are mixed. Japan’s slow move toward tighter policy clashes with Takaichi’s push for more government spending. Higher bond yields could pull money back into Japan, reducing liquidity elsewhere.

Global policy alignment is also shaky. CME FedWatch suggests the Fed will likely keep rates unchanged in January, and JPMorgan expects no US rate cuts in 2026 after strong economic data. This leaves crypto markets caught between higher yen funding costs and firm global interest rates.

The BOJ’s decision to hold rates masked deeper shifts. Higher inflation forecasts, internal dissent, fiscal expansion, and a weaker yen all point to growing risk. Even though prices haven’t moved much yet, Japan’s policy direction remains a key influence on Bitcoin and the wider crypto market.

The post BOJ Rate Hold Masks Rising Yen Risk for Bitcoin, Crypto appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post BOJ Rate Hold Masks Rising Yen Risk for Bitcoin, Crypto appeared first on Cryptotale.

SAND price climbs as GameFi demand rises and volume spikes across major tokens.

Buyers defend the $0.14–$0.10 zone while higher lows shape early recovery structure.

Key resistance near $0.29 limits upside as broader trend signals stay cautious.

The SAND price pushed higher again today, adding nearly 11% in 24 hours and stretching a rebound that has been building for two weeks. The move comes on the back of a strong prior stretch, when the token climbed roughly 30% last week and re-entered market conversations after a period of muted trading.

Trading picked up noticeably as well. Market value now sits near $428.72 million, while volume rose almost 46% to $259.32 million. That uptick in activity hints at a market leaning back into risk after several hesitant weeks, though the trend remains fragile.

GameFi Momentum Adds Fuel

According to CoinMarketCap data, GameFi names were among the strongest performers in the latest session. Sector data showed nearly 7% growth on January 22, outpacing the broader crypto market’s steadier tone.

The shift pulled capital into familiar high-beta projects such as The Sandbox, Axie Infinity, and Decentraland. This rotation often appears when traders feel slightly more comfortable taking on volatility.

The SAND price benefited from that shift, slotting back into its role as one of the sector’s preferred liquidity hubs. Still, even with the recent rally, the token is climbing out of a deep trough rather than confirming a full trend recovery.

Structure Shows Early Stabilization

From a technical perspective, SAND’s chart remains mixed. A sharp rejection at the 20-day moving average halted earlier momentum and briefly revived selling, reinforcing a longer-term bearish backdrop.

At press time, the token continues to trade below its major moving averages, a reminder that higher-timeframe pressure has not fully cleared. Yet the lower edge of the market has held firm. The SAND price found support repeatedly in the $0.14 to $0.10 pocket, an area that has shaped trading behavior for months.

Source: TradingView

A higher low has now formed above that zone, a subtle but important sign that sellers no longer have the same control they held late last year. Besides, momentum readings tell a similar story. The RSI has worked its way back toward the low 40s after dipping into oversold territory.

It is not a clean signal, nor is it meant to be. But the lift shows buyers reappearing in enough size to cool the earlier slide. A move above the 50 mark would strengthen that case, though markets are rarely that neat.

For now, SAND remains boxed in beneath its short- and medium-term moving averages. Until those levels give way, rallies face the risk of fading as they have before. A notable ceiling sits near $0.29, overlapping with the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement. Traders point to this level as the next test for any attempt at sustained recovery.

Related: RIVER Price Hits $48 Record High Amid Rising Market Manipulation Scrutiny

Longer-Term Setup Draws Attention

A separate high-timeframe view from analyst Crypto Patel outlines a larger structure still in play after SAND’s roughly 99% slide from its peak. The token has carved out a base inside a descending channel. Reactions in the $0.14 to $0.11 band have held for months, and the setup remains intact as long as the SAND price stays above $0.10 on higher-timeframe closes.

Source: X

While longer-range projections exist, near-term focus remains on whether SAND can hold its footing and press into the next resistance cluster. For now, the market shows early signs of steadiness, enough to extend the streak, but not enough to claim a breakout.

The post SAND Price Jumps 11% as Two-Week Bullish Streak Extends appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post SAND Price Jumps 11% as Two-Week Bullish Streak Extends appeared first on Cryptotale.

Experts warn NYSE’s tokenization plan lacks a clear blockchain design and token economics.

Centralization concerns rise as NYSE’s tokenization model appears to preserve intermediaries.

Crypto industry leaders still view on-chain tokenized stocks as a major market milestone.

The NYSE tokenization plan has sparked debate over whether the New York Stock Exchange is poised to deliver a genuine blockchain platform or merely a broad vision. The proposal targets tokenized stocks and tokenized exchange-traded funds (ETFs) with modern market features.

Columbia Business School professor Omid Malekan criticized the plan as “vaporware,” arguing it lacks the details needed to judge feasibility. His remarks amplified wider skepticism about how traditional finance will execute real-world asset tokenization.

NYSE tokenization plan faces “vaporware” criticism on specifics

Malekan said the NYSE described outcomes without explaining implementation. He argued that the proposal does not read like a technical roadmap. He highlighted missing information about blockchain selection. Malekan said the NYSE did not state which blockchain network the platform would use.

He also said the exchange did not clarify whether it prefers a permissioned blockchain or a permissionless blockchain. In addition, he said the NYSE did not describe any hybrid architecture. Token economics drew similar criticism. Malekan said the announcement did not explain fee mechanisms, incentives, or token design choices.

Those gaps matter, he argued, because tokenized securities require clear operating rules. Consequently, he framed the announcement as conceptual messaging rather than execution planning.

Malekan also questioned what “multi-chain support” means in practice. He said the plan did not explain how the platform would operate across chains.

Related: NYSE Moves Toward On-Chain Trading With Tokenized Securities

ICE targets 24/7 trading and instant settlement for ETFs

The NYSE and its parent, Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), have outlined goals for a blockchain platform tied to real-world asset tokenization. The headline aims include 24/7 trading for stocks and ETFs. The proposal also targets instant settlement. In addition, it mentions multi-chain support and custody services, but it leaves core design decisions unspecified.

Malekan challenged the idea that continuous trading requires blockchain. He argued that exchanges already run powerful databases and could extend trading hours using conventional systems.

He raised similar doubts about instant settlement. Malekan suggested that settlement speed depends on market structure and business relationships, not only on software.

In addition, the critique points to a broader tension. Exchanges can modernize operations without adopting blockchain while tokenization claims a different value proposition. Still, ICE and the NYSE have positioned tokenized markets as a forward step. The plan’s stated features signal interest in new token listings and always-on access.

Centralization concerns shape tokenized stocks debate today

Malekan argued that the NYSE operates within a centralized market structure. He described the exchange model as highly centralized and oligopolistic. He said cryptographic technology does not change that structure by itself. However, he suggested that meaningful decentralization would require a shift away from existing frameworks.

That argument centers on access and intermediation. Malekan implied that tokenization may preserve current gatekeeping, rather than open markets broadly. Supporters in the crypto industry view the announcement as a positive signal. Carlos Domingo, chief executive officer of Securitize, said, “On-chain trading of natively tokenized stocks is a major positive development.”

Meanwhile, Alexander Spiegelman, head of research at Aptos Labs, described the timing as “timely” for traditional markets to adopt blockchain technology. Their comments reflect optimism that institutional momentum can accelerate the adoption of blockchain.

The discussion also touches decentralized finance (DeFi), which refers to blockchain-based financial activity that can reduce reliance on traditional intermediaries. Malekan argued that public access and bearer-like assets define permissionless systems more than simple cryptography.

Furthermore, the disagreement highlights the gap between vision and delivery in tokenization. Skeptics want architecture, token standards, and token economics before treating the plan as credible.

The post NYSE Tokenization Strategy Sparks Debate Over Missing Details appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post NYSE Tokenization Strategy Sparks Debate Over Missing Details appeared first on Cryptotale.

SEC and CFTC to hold joint public crypto oversight event on Jan 27, signaling alignment.

The leaders aim to reduce jurisdictional confusion through regulatory harmonization talks.

Event highlights coordination as Congress delays crypto market structure legislation.

U.S. crypto regulation could take a forward step starting January 27, when the SEC and CFTC will hold a joint public event. The session, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Eastern at CFTC headquarters, brings SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins and CFTC Chairman Michael Selig together. The agencies say the discussion aims to address regulatory harmonization and reduce long-standing jurisdictional confusion in crypto oversight.

A Public Display of Regulatory Alignment

The Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission confirmed the joint event would be open to the public and livestreamed. According to the SEC, the session focuses on harmonization and U.S. financial leadership in the crypto era. Importantly, the choice of a public forum signals institutional coordination rather than private enforcement discussions.

Paul Atkins said he looks forward to joining Michael Selig to discuss alignment between both agencies. He added that the discussion supports President Donald Trump’s promise to make the United States the crypto capital. Notably, both agencies tied their cooperation directly to that broader federal agenda.

The event takes place at CFTC headquarters, indicating shared ownership of crypto oversight. However, the format remains structured and limited to introductory remarks and a panel discussion. That structure highlights policy design rather than enforcement actions or investigations.

Leadership Ties Reinforce a Shared Direction

Personal history between Atkins and Selig adds context to the coordination. Atkins previously served as Selig’s boss at the SEC before Selig moved to the CFTC. Notably, Selig worked on crypto policy at the SEC before becoming the CFTC’s permanent chairman last month.

Selig replaced interim chair Caroline Pham, who previously participated in similar coordination efforts. In September, Atkins and Pham jointly declared an end to agency turf wars. They also hosted a roundtable on decentralized finance and prediction markets.

Since taking office, Selig has announced a new “future-proof” crypto initiative at the CFTC. That initiative aligns with the agencies’ stated goal of reducing unclear jurisdictional boundaries. According to both chairs, legacy silos have forced market participants to navigate misaligned regulatory designs.

In a joint statement, Atkins and Selig said the event builds on broader harmonization efforts. They emphasized innovation under American law and in the service of U.S. investors and consumers. Notably, the language focused on system design rather than enforcement penalties.

Related: SEC and CFTC Roundtable Seeks Clear Crypto Oversight Rules

Policy Coordination Amid Congressional Delays

While agencies coordinate, Congress continues work on crypto market structure legislation. The Senate Banking and Agriculture Committees are advancing separate bills defining agency oversight roles. However, delays have slowed progress due to ongoing bipartisan negotiations.

Earlier this month, a Senate Banking draft triggered industry concern. That version added restrictions on stablecoin yields and decentralized finance. As a result, Coinbase withdrew support, and the committee delayed its markup.

Meanwhile, Senate Agriculture Republicans released their draft ahead of a scheduled markup next week. That version lacked Democratic support, according to committee disclosures. Both committees must still reconcile differences before a final Senate vote.

Meanwhile, the SEC–CFTC event indicates administrative coordination while lawmakers debate statutory authority. The agencies acknowledged Congress’s role but emphasized near-term policy alignment. The event occurs as staff at both agencies continue drafting oversight frameworks.

The session will open with remarks from each chairman, followed by a joint panel discussion. According to agency statements, the discussion centers on harmonization and U.S. financial leadership. The timing places regulatory coordination alongside legislative uncertainty.

The joint SEC-CFTC event brings agency leadership, shared history, and public transparency into one forum. It indicates ongoing coordination efforts tied to President Trump’s crypto agenda and current congressional debates. The statements, setting, and timing consolidate a clear picture of agencies presenting a unified regulatory approach.

The post SEC-CFTC Unity Points to an End of U.S. Crypto Rule Splits appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post SEC-CFTC Unity Points to an End of U.S. Crypto Rule Splits appeared first on Cryptotale.

YZi Labs entered the BitGo public listing to support regulated crypto custody growth.

BitGo serves over 5,100 institutions with secure custody, staking, and stablecoin tools.

NYSE debut shows rising demand for compliant crypto platforms across global finance.

YZi Labs, formerly Binance Labs and now the $10 billion investment arm linked to Changpeng Zhao, has joined the Initial Public Offering of BitGo on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker BTGO. The firm entered the listing as a major institutional investor, signaling support for regulated crypto infrastructure and compliant digital asset services.

The investment aligns with YZi Labs’ strategy to focus on Web3, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology, while supporting companies that build secure and compliant financial systems. On X, YZi Labs described U.S.-regulated digital asset infrastructure as a long-term strategic pillar. The firm linked that view to global capital markets moving closer to digital asset rails.

https://t.co/RixOKzJ5vp

— YZi Labs (@yzilabs) January 23, 2026

It also pointed to BitGo’s regulated trust structure and its multi-jurisdictional compliance framework across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This participation comes as institutions increase demand for regulated custody, clear compliance rules, and strong security standards. 

BitGo now sits at the center of that shift with $82 billion in Assets on the platform and more than 5,100 institutional clients across 100 countries. The company also provides custody, trading, settlement, token management, staking services, and stablecoin infrastructure.

Strategic focus on regulated infrastructure

YZi Labs stated that regulated digital asset platforms form the backbone of long-term market development. The firm said BitGo’s structure supports fiduciary security and cross-border compliance in multiple jurisdictions. This framework allows institutions to operate within strict regulatory environments while accessing digital asset markets.

The OCC regulates BitGo Bank & Trust as a National Trust Bank, which BitGo operates. The company also maintains both SOC 1 and SOC 2 Type 2 audit certifications. The platform meets institutional requirements through its custody, settlement, and token services. 

Beyond custody services, BitGo provides staking-as-a-service and stablecoin-as-a-service solutions. The services enable banks and enterprises to create compliant white-label stablecoin products. The system links conventional financial systems with authorized digital asset trading platforms.

Institutional scale and operational reach

BitGo reports $82 billion in Assets on the platform. It serves more than 5,100 institutional clients across 100 countries. This scale places it among the largest global digital asset infrastructure providers. The company pioneered multi-signature wallet technology. It also operates a vertically integrated model that combines custody, trading, settlement, and token management. This structure supports end-to-end institutional workflows.

Ella Zhang, Head of YZi Labs, said BitGo has maintained a hack-free security record for more than a decade. She credited the technical foundation built by CEO Mike Belshe. She described BitGo’s regulated, institutional-grade infrastructure as a critical competitive advantage.

“With $82 billion AOP, BitGo is a cornerstone asset,” Zhang said. “We are committed to providing the strategic resources necessary to fuel its next phase of global growth as a public company.” She also referenced Belshe’s role as both a Bitcoin pioneer and a web technology architect.

IPO, compliance, and market convergence

Mike Belshe, CEO of BitGo, linked the NYSE listing to long-term institutional trust.
He said the company’s mission centers on delivering security and compliance to the digital asset ecosystem. He described YZi Labs’ investment as a shared commitment to regulated infrastructure.

“By combining BitGo’s security technology with Binance and the BNB ecosystem’s global market reach, we are setting the standard for how capital enters this space,” Belshe said. The statement tied BitGo’s infrastructure to broader market access. It also connected the IPO to global adoption.

Related: BitGo Prices IPO Above Range, Values Firm at $2.08 Billion

YZi Labs manages more than $10 billion in assets and invests across Web3, AI, and biotech. Its portfolio spans over 300 projects in more than 25 countries across six continents.
Notable holdings include Trustwallet, CoinMarketCap, Polygon, Injective, Ethena, Safepal Wallet, Better Payment Network, Aster, and XAI.

BitGo’s public listing demonstrates increasing interest from regulated cryptocurrency companies that seek to enter mainstream financial markets. The stable digital asset platforms that meet regulatory requirements have become more popular among institutional investors, according to the current initial public offering. 

The main question exists between traditional finance and digital markets. There exists an ongoing discussion about the future of regulated crypto infrastructure, which could serve as the primary connection point between traditional finance and digital markets.

The post BitGo NYSE Listing Draws YZi Labs Backing for Crypto Trust appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post BitGo NYSE Listing Draws YZi Labs Backing for Crypto Trust appeared first on Cryptotale.

World Liberty Financial partners with Spacecoin to extend USD1 payments via space internet.

USD1 market cap tops $3.3B as the stablecoin expands beyond on-chain settlement uses.

The deal links DeFi with satellite networks to reach users without reliable banking access.

World Liberty Financial is expanding the use of its USD1 stablecoin into satellite-based internet payments through a partnership with Spacecoin. The move comes as USD1 surpasses $3.2 billion in market value and seeks broader real-world adoption.

The Trump-backed crypto project announced the collaboration on Thursday through a Spacecoin blog post. The partnership aims to support payments and settlement in areas without reliable banking or internet access.

Both companies confirmed a strategic token swap as part of the agreement. However, they did not disclose financial terms or token amounts. World Liberty Financial said the deal focuses on off-grid payment use cases. It also reflects a shift beyond on-chain settlement activity.

MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT

In a move anchored by a token swap with @worldlibertyfi, we’re entering into a strategic partnership to explore new solutions that converge the decentralized technology of finance and satellite internet connectivity.

Together, we will continue… pic.twitter.com/XnTRfdOKUx

— Spacecoin (@spacecoin) January 22, 2026

Expanding USD1 Beyond Traditional Networks

Zak Folkman, co-founder of World Liberty Financial, explained the goal in the announcement. He said USD1 supports real-world payment and settlement needs. Folkman added that the partnership explores environments where traditional financial rails remain limited. He highlighted remote regions and underserved populations as key targets.

USD1 launched last year as a dollar-pegged stablecoin. Since then, it has steadily grown in circulation and adoption. According to market data, USD1 reached a market capitalization of about $3.3 billion at press time. That growth places it among the larger stablecoins in circulation.

World Liberty Financial has also expanded into crypto lending. It operates World Liberty Markets as a lending and settlement platform. The project positions USD1 as a core settlement asset across its services. The Spacecoin partnership extends that strategy beyond traditional internet infrastructure.

Satellite Internet Meets Decentralized Finance

Spacecoin is building a low-Earth orbit satellite network. The company aims to provide internet access without relying on ground-based broadband. Recently, Spacecoin launched three satellites into orbit. The company described the launches as a major step toward operational coverage.

Spacecoin calls its network a decentralized physical infrastructure system. It plans to support connectivity in remote and underserved locations. The partnership with World Liberty Financial aligns with that mission. Spacecoin said global internet access requires compatible financial tools.

Tae Oh, founder of Spacecoin, addressed that need in a statement. He said connectivity alone does not ensure digital freedom. Oh explained that users also need access to open financial services. He added that payments remain a core internet function.

By integrating USD1, Spacecoin users could transact financially when they first came online. The companies see this as a step toward inclusive digital participation. The partnership also reflects broader ambitions for decentralized finance. Both firms aim to combine infrastructure and financial access at scale.

Related: Trump-linked World Liberty Applies for U.S. National Bank

World Liberty Financial continues to pursue international partnerships. Earlier this month, a World Liberty affiliate signed an agreement with Pakistan. The memorandum of understanding explores USD1 use in payments and remittances. It marked a sovereign-level engagement for the project.

Together, the projects aim to test payment coordination in extreme environments. These include regions without banks, broadband, or stable infrastructure. World Liberty Financial said it will continue exploring new USD1 use cases. The company has not announced timelines for satellite payment pilots.

The post World Liberty Expands USD1 Into Satellite Internet Payments appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post World Liberty Expands USD1 Into Satellite Internet Payments appeared first on Cryptotale.

Circle CEO says stablecoins can handle billions of AI-driven payments at scale.

US lawmakers debate yield limits as banks warn of deposit migration risks.

Money market fund growth shapes stablecoin yield comparisons in policy talks.

Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire said stablecoins remain critical digital infrastructure as U.S. lawmakers debate tighter yield rules. He said stablecoins can support billions of transactions for artificial intelligence agents while coexisting with traditional banking structures. His remarks surfaced during regulatory debates over stablecoin yields and broader concerns about deposit migration from banks.

Allaire spoke during digital asset infrastructure panels as Congress reviewed draft language under the CLARITY Act. The proposal triggered backlash in January 2026 after lawmakers moved to restrict passive yield on stablecoin holdings. The debate followed earlier legislation that reshaped stablecoin oversight in the United States.

"STABLECOIN FEARS ARE TOTALLY ABSURD”

Jeremy Allaire pushes back on claims that stablecoin rewards would drain bank deposits and destabilize credit markets, calling the argument “totally absurd.” pic.twitter.com/9WJ791lnfG

— Coin Bureau (@coinbureau) January 22, 2026

Stablecoins and Artificial Intelligence Transactions

Allaire stated that stablecoins remain the only system capable of handling transaction volumes required by AI agents. He said future AI systems may execute billions of automated payments that demand constant liquidity and instant settlement. According to Allaire, existing payment rails cannot match that scale without friction.

Industry executives echoed similar projections during public forums on digital finance.
Galaxy Digital CEO Michael Novogratz said in September 2025 that AI agents may soon dominate stablecoin usage. He cited automated purchasing and machine-driven commerce as likely demand drivers.

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao made related claims at Davos. He said crypto payments could enable AI-led commerce across global markets. Yet public examples remain limited to experimental deployments rather than live systems.

Yield Debate and Banking Sector Warnings

Allaire compared stablecoin yields to money market funds during public discussions.
He said government money market funds expanded for decades without triggering systemic bank disruptions. He did not provide timelines or quantified impacts in available remarks.

Banking groups warned lawmakers about deposit erosion risks. The Kansas City Federal Reserve estimated that yield-bearing stablecoins could remove $1.5 trillion in lending capacity. Representatives said deposit migration could weaken traditional credit intermediation.

U.S. money market funds now hold about $7.7 trillion in assets, according to the Investment Company Institute. Balances rose by $868 billion over the past year despite Federal Reserve rate cuts. Critics note that money funds operate under different regulatory and insurance frameworks than stablecoins.

Legislative Framework and Regulatory Friction

The GENIUS Act, whichwas passed in 2025, made it illegal for issuers to pay interest directly to their bondholders. Crypto platforms argued the law still permitted third-party yield programs to operate. 

The interpretation of that law created the framework for subsequent policy conflicts. Draft CLARITY Act language sought to close that gap. The proposal would ban passive yield for holding stablecoins while allowing rewards tied to transaction activity. Lawmakers postponed progress because industry objections became known. 

Related: Hong Kong Prepares Stablecoin Licenses for Digital Finance

Circle’s comments place stablecoins at the center of two debates: artificial intelligence payments and U.S. financial regulation. Lawmakers weigh yield limits as banks warn of deposit risks, while industry leaders frame stablecoins as neutral infrastructure. With AI transaction volumes rising and legislative language unsettled, regulatory choices may shape how digital dollars integrate with banking and automated commerce going forward globally.

The question of whether lawmakers can create financial stability regulations without restricting stablecoin usage, which supports emerging AI-based transactions, remains vital as Congress evaluates the proposed changes.

The post Circle CEO Says Stablecoins Can Power AI Payments Globally appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Circle CEO Says Stablecoins Can Power AI Payments Globally appeared first on Cryptotale.

61% of Indian crypto investors want stock or mutual fund-like taxes on digital assets.

Nearly 90% understand the 30% tax and 1% TDS rules, yet 66% still call the regime unfair.

59% cut back on crypto activity due to taxes, while 80% say clear rules are essential.

A CoinSwitch survey released ahead of India’s February 1 Union Budget shows calls for crypto tax reform. The survey found that 61% of Indian crypto investors want crypto taxed like stocks or mutual funds.

Another 17% supported a separate tax framework for crypto, while 22% chose other preferences. In addition, the nationwide poll shows awareness of the Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) rules, alongside dissatisfaction with the current approach.

Nearly 61% of Crypto investors want Crypto to be treated like Stocks and mutual funds for TAX.

Another 17% want a separate tax system for crypto.

-> 90% of Indian crypto investors know the tax rules.
-> 66% feel the current crypto tax system is unfair.
-> 59% have reduced… pic.twitter.com/TdzDBDVQgc

— Kashif Raza (@simplykashif) January 22, 2026

CoinSwitch survey highlights demand for equity-style crypto tax

The CoinSwitch survey indicates many investors want crypto brought into India’s mainstream financial taxation framework. Respondents most often backed tax treatment aligned with equities and mutual funds, rather than a standalone VDA structure.

Ashish Singhal, Co-founder of CoinSwitch, framed the demand as rationalization, not relief. He said respondents do not seek exemptions and want a fairer policy. He said respondents want “rationalisation,” including lower rates, loss set-off provisions, reduced transaction deductions, and clearer rules aligned with established markets.

The responses show investors rank both taxation and regulation as key Budget issues. The survey presents them as linked priorities for policy action. However, opinion splits on how to structure the rules. About 17% want a separate crypto tax regime, indicating support for tailored treatment.

Investors also signalled broader policy preferences beyond taxation mechanics. In the survey, 51% said India should encourage crypto as a new asset class, while 30% backed cautious regulation. Only 7% favoured active discouragement.

India’s crypto tax rules spark unfairness concerns among investors

The survey reported high awareness of India’s current crypto tax provisions. Nearly 90% said they understand core rules, including the headline rates and key limitations.

Those provisions include a 30% tax on gains, restrictions on loss set-off and carry-forward, and a 1% TDS on transactions. Respondents cited familiarity with each element as part of their tax knowledge. Still, most investors described the framework as unbalanced. Sixty-six percent said the current crypto tax system is unfair, despite widespread awareness of how it works.

Singhal said the findings indicate investors remain informed and willing to comply. He said they want a fair and predictable framework that aligns with established financial markets and reflects market realities.

Taxation also appears to shape behaviour in the market. About 59% said they reduced crypto investing or trading because of the prevailing rules, pointing to potential impacts on trading volumes and liquidity.

However, not all investors pulled back. The survey found 17% increased participation. Another 16% said the tax rules did not affect activity. Meanwhile, 8% reported other impacts, showing mixed responses across investor groups.

Related: India Crypto Tax: How Compliance Can Unlock ₹66,000 Crore More

Regulatory clarity on VDAs influences investor activity in India

Beyond taxation, respondents stressed the need for clearer crypto regulation in India. Over 80% said clear rules matter. In addition, 60% rated regulatory clarity as extremely important for investor confidence.

Respondents also suggested that tax reform alone will not build long-term trust. Many investors linked market participation to predictable rules for VDAs, alongside clear compliance expectations. Information channels emerged as a theme in the poll. Crypto platforms and exchanges served as the primary source for updates at 30%, followed by news media at 27% and social media at 25%.

In addition, 18% relied on other sources for guidance on taxes and regulations. That mix highlights the importance of consistent and authoritative communication, especially when rules affect transaction flows.

Singhal said clearer regulation could support compliant onshore participation and a more transparent digital asset ecosystem. He also said investors want a fair and predictable framework as policy discussions continue.

As the Union Budget approaches, the CoinSwitch survey suggests investors will watch for signs of tax rationalisation and regulatory clarity. Any policy shift could influence participation patterns and the direction of India’s VDA market.

The post Most Indian Crypto Investors Favor Stock-Like Tax Rules appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Most Indian Crypto Investors Favor Stock-Like Tax Rules appeared first on Cryptotale.

Vietnam to licence exchanges from January 20, 2026, under a government pilot framework.

New finance rules define licensing adjustment and revocation for crypto market operators.

Banks and securities firms prepare exchanges while meeting high capital and staffing rules.

Vietnam will begin formally licensing cryptocurrency trading market operators from January 20, 2026, marking a key step in its pilot framework for a regulated digital asset market. The Vietnam State Securities Commission confirmed the timeline after the Ministry of Finance issued new administrative procedures governing crypto exchange licensing.

The move follows Government Resolution No. 05/2025/NQ-CP, which approved a controlled pilot for cryptocurrency trading services in Vietnam. According to the SSC, applications will be accepted under Decision No. 96/QD-BTC, dated January 20, 2026, which defines the scope, process, and oversight responsibilities for the sector. Detailed guidance appears in an appendix attached to the decision and published on the SSC’s official portal at www.ssc.gov.vn.

New Licensing Framework Takes Effect

Decision No. 96/QD-BTC introduces three administrative procedures under the Ministry of Finance’s authority. These cover licensing, license adjustments, and license revocation for organizations operating cryptocurrency trading markets.

JUST IN: State Securities Commission of Vietnam begins licensing crypto-asset trading markets from Jan 20, 2026. pic.twitter.com/IEB9HWa1q7

— Whale Insider (@WhaleInsider) January 21, 2026

The SSC stated that applicants must follow the standardized process outlined in the new appendix. The appendix lists required documents, application steps, and compliance obligations for each procedure. The framework supports the government’s pilot approach rather than a full market rollout.

Financial Institutions Prepare for Market Entry

Industry data cited by Vietnam VN shows that about 10 securities firms and banks have announced plans to enter the crypto exchange market. These institutions expect to launch operations after securing regulatory approval. Within the securities sector, SSI Securities formed SSI Digital Technology Joint Stock Company in 2022. The unit, known as SSID, has expanded its digital asset initiatives in recent years.

SSID and SSI Fund Management Company signed cooperation agreements with Tether, U2U Network, and Amazon Web Services. The partnerships aim to develop a blockchain-based digital finance ecosystem using cloud infrastructure.

Meanwhile, VIX Securities contributed capital to establish the VIX Cryptocurrency Exchange, known as VIXEX. The firm also signed a cooperation agreement with FPT to prepare its technology systems.

Banks Align With Pilot Market Rules

Several banks have also announced readiness to participate once licenses are issued. Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank, known as MB, has partnered with Dunamu, the operator of Upbit.

The collaboration focuses on building a Vietnam-based cryptocurrency exchange. It also covers legal frameworks, operational processes, and investor protection measures. Techcombank has established the Techcom Cryptocurrency Exchange, or TCEX, with charter capital reaching hundreds of billions of dong. Its TCBS trading platform already displays a dedicated cryptocurrency section tracking major digital assets.

VPBank has also confirmed it has prepared internal resources and systems. The bank said it will begin operations immediately after receiving regulatory approval. With capital thresholds set at 10,000 billion VND and strict ownership and staffing rules, how many firms will ultimately qualify for Vietnam’s tightly controlled crypto market pilot?

Related: Five Firms to Join Vietnam’s Regulated Crypto Exchange Plan

Licensing Conditions Under the Pilot Program

Resolution No. 05/2025/NQ-CP sets detailed entry requirements for service providers.
Applicants must operate as Vietnamese enterprises under the Enterprise Law. Charter capital must be fully contributed in Vietnamese dong. At least 65% of that capital must come from organizations. More than 35% must be contributed by at least two eligible institutions. These include banks, securities firms, fund managers, insurers, or technology companies.

Each entity or individual may invest in only one licensed provider. Applicants must also maintain registered offices with adequate facilities and secure technology systems.

Senior management must meet experience standards. The General Director requires at least two years in finance or related fields, while the Chief Technology Officer needs five years in information technology.

Organizations must employ at least 10 cybersecurity-certified technology staff. They must also maintain at least 10 employees holding securities professional certifications across operational departments.

The post Vietnam Opens Crypto Exchange Licensing Under New Finance Rules appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Vietnam Opens Crypto Exchange Licensing Under New Finance Rules appeared first on Cryptotale.

CZ says he is in talks with a dozen governments on tokenization of state-owned assets.

Tokenization could help states raise funds early by selling fractional stakes in assets.

BlackRock flags tokenization as a 2026 theme as IBIT leads U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs.

Changpeng Zhao, Binance’s co-founder and former CEO, said he is in talks with “probably a dozen governments” about tokenization of state assets. The remarks were delivered at the World Economic Forum in Davos. No countries or assets were identified during the panel. The discussion centered on how tokenization could help governments raise funds by selling small portions of public holdings.

During the panel, Zhao argued tokenization could unlock value earlier in the development cycle. Governments could potentially raise capital before long projects mature. “This way the government could actually realize their financial gains first,” he said. Those gains could then be used to develop industries tied to the assets.

.@cz_binance on what’s working in crypto – and what’s next – at @wef Davos

What's proven at scale: exchanges & stablecoins.

The next frontier:
> State-level tokenization of assets
> Crypto as the invisible payment rail
> AI agents transacting autonomously, using crypto as… pic.twitter.com/PG3eoNBMRV

— YZi Labs (@yzilabs) January 22, 2026

New Funding Paths

Privatization models provide a rough comparison. Stakes in national oil firms and telecom companies have been sold by several states in the past. Tokenization could replicate that concept through digital rails. Smaller allocations could be offered to citizens and investors. Large block sales would not be the only route.

Earlier public statements from Zhao referenced talks with Pakistan, Malaysia, and Kyrgyzstan. Those mentions were made on social media, not in Davos detail. Government interest was described as spread across regions. The comments did not include policy frameworks or timelines. No official confirmation from the cited governments was provided in the remarks.

Kyrgyzstan was cited as an example of broader digital currency activity. A stablecoin pegged to the som launched last year. Plans were also announced for a dollar-pegged stablecoin backed by $300 million in gold reserves. Zhao referenced this as a signal of state experimentation. Direct involvement in issuance was not claimed.

Payment systems were another focus in Zhao’s Davos comments. Swipe-card style products could use crypto in the background. Merchants receive traditional currency while users pay in crypto. Conversion happens during settlement. This structure aims to reduce friction for businesses.

Related: BRD Stablecoin Ties Brazil’s Sovereign Debt to On-Chain Yield

Traditional payment rails are also converging with crypto infrastructure, Zhao said. Local-currency settlement remains important for merchants. Crypto could still be used without requiring businesses to hold it. Card-based layers could make that possible. Adoption could then expand through familiar checkout methods.

AI Agents and BlackRock Spotlight Tokenization Shift

Artificial intelligence was linked to crypto utility in Zhao’s remarks. “The native currency for AI agents will be crypto,” he said. Autonomous systems may need programmable settlement for transactions. Banking rails are not built for machine-driven global micro-payments. Crypto networks could process automated value transfer.

Autonomous AI systems could create new transaction flows. Machine-to-machine payments are expected to grow as automation expands. Programmable tokens allow conditional payments and execution. Zhao did not present a timeline for that shift. The point was framed as a long-term structural trend.

Institutional attention is also rising, according to BlackRock’s latest research. The firm released a report titled “2026 Thematic Outlook.” Crypto and tokenization were listed as major themes shaping 2026. Investor focus was said to be increasing. AI and energy infrastructure were included as other key sectors.

BlackRock said crypto should not be treated only as a speculative asset class. The report described crypto as infrastructure for payments and settlement. Liquidity management was also cited as a future use case. Tokenization was presented as a bridge between decentralized markets and traditional finance. The firm framed the shift as part of the broader market evolution.

ETF performance was used by BlackRock as supporting evidence. The company said its spot Bitcoin ETF, iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), is the fastest-growing exchange-traded product in history. IBIT launched in January 2024. It has operated for just over two years. The firm pointed to rapid growth as a signal of demand.

No finalized agreements were announced by Zhao. Contracts, deployments, and country-level decisions were not disclosed. Even so, his comments suggested tokenization is moving into policy discussions. Public finance could become a core use case for blockchain. Broader adoption could change how governments fund assets and distribute investment access.

The post CZ Is In Talk With A Donzen Countries On Asset Tokenization appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post CZ Is In Talk With A Donzen Countries On Asset Tokenization appeared first on Cryptotale.

BitGo priced its IPO at $18, above the marketed $15–$17 range for its 11.8M shares.

The IPO raised $212.8 million and valued BitGo at about $2.08 billion after final pricing.

BitGo’s NYSE debut comes as the U.S. market structure bill debate adds fresh regulatory risk.

BitGo Holdings priced its initial public offering at $18 per share, above the marketed range of $15 to $17. The company planned to sell 11.8 million shares, according to a Reuters report. The pricing move increased the total funds raised and set a higher valuation for the crypto custody firm.

The IPO raised $212.8 million at the $18 offer price. At the top of the marketed range, BitGo would have raised about $201 million. Reuters reported that the IPO values BitGo at $2.08 billion.

BitGo Sets NYSE Debut With BTGO Ticker as IPO Prices Above Range

BitGo has pursued a stock market listing for years as it sought to benefit from growing demand for digital asset infrastructure. The Palo Alto-based firm filed for a U.S. IPO last September. It said it planned to list its Class A shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker BTGO.

On January 12, BitGo said it was targeting a valuation of up to $1.96 billion in what it described as the first cryptocurrency IPO of the year. The final IPO pricing lifted that valuation outcome. The higher pricing also reflected stronger demand than the midpoint of the original range.

Goldman Sachs is serving as lead underwriter for the offering, according to the company’s announcement. Citigroup is also managing the IPO. BitGo said it will operate as a controlled company under NYSE rules after the listing.

The IPO comes at a tense moment for the U.S. crypto sector, as lawmakers advance a long-awaited market structure bill. The proposed framework would reshape how regulators classify and oversee digital assets. 

Coinbase has warned that parts of the market structure effort could restrict core areas of the crypto business. The broader industry has argued for clearer rules but has also pushed back against provisions that could limit trading, staking incentives, or product design. 

Related: U.S. Market Structure Reform Pulls Crypto Into Banking

Market conditions have also become more demanding. Reuters noted that a sharp selloff in cryptocurrencies in October unsettled the sector and raised the bar for investor backing. The decline increased pressure on valuations and made public market appetite harder to gauge.

BitGo IPO in Focus as Grayscale, Kraken Weigh Listings 

Several crypto-linked firms are still preparing to test investor demand through IPOs this year. Crypto-focused asset manager Grayscale and cryptocurrency exchange Kraken have been cited among companies considering offerings. BitGo’s debut is being watched because custody firms sit at the infrastructure layer of the sector.

Not every major crypto firm is moving toward an IPO. Ripple Labs has said it will remain private and will not pursue a public listing in 2026. The divergence highlights how company balance sheets and liquidity options are shaping listing decisions.

In the first week of this year, Ripple President Monica Long said the company has no plan to go public in 2026. She said Ripple has a strong balance sheet and does not need public market capital. Long said companies typically list to access liquidity and expand their investor base, but Ripple already has those advantages.

Ripple raised $500 million in November 2025 at a $40 billion valuation, according to the details in the report. The fundraising round included Fortress Investment Group, Citadel Securities, and major crypto funds. Ripple also completed a $1 billion tender offer earlier in 2025 at the same valuation and said it has repurchased more than 25% of its outstanding shares.

BitGo’s listing comes after a period when crypto sentiment had improved in 2025. The digital asset sector was buoyed by President Donald Trump’s pro-crypto stance and policy momentum tied to regulatory frameworks such as the stablecoin-focused GENIUS Act.

The post BitGo Prices IPO Above Range, Values Firm at $2.08 Billion appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post BitGo Prices IPO Above Range, Values Firm at $2.08 Billion appeared first on Cryptotale.

Thailand’s SEC to enable cryptocurrency ETFs and futures trading under new regulations.

Cryptocurrency ETFs allow investors exposure without holding private keys or wallets.

Futures trading on TFEX provides legal clarity and hedging options for investors.

Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission will introduce new regulations covering crypto ETFs and crypto futures trading this year. The rules will allow crypto ETFs and enable crypto futures trading on the Thailand Futures Exchange (TFEX). 

Deputy Secretary-General Jomkwan Kongsakul said the SEC has already approved crypto ETFs in principle and is finalizing operational guidelines. The move aims to place digital asset investment under clearer legal oversight while expanding regulated market access.

SEC Sets Framework for Crypto ETFs

The Thai SEC plans to release formal guidelines for crypto exchange-traded funds early this year, according to the Bangkok Post. These rules will explain how asset managers and licensed digital asset exchanges can jointly structure ETF products. The SEC board has already approved crypto ETFs in principle.

Jomkwan Kongsakul said crypto ETFs appeal to investors concerned about wallet management and cybersecurity risks. ETFs allow exposure to digital assets without holding private keys. Consequently, investors avoid direct custody responsibilities and hacking concerns.

The SEC is finalizing investment limits, operational requirements and disclosure standards for ETF issuers. However, product approval will require close coordination between asset managers and licensed exchanges. Once completed, eligible products could list on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

To support trading activity, the regulator is considering market maker mechanisms for crypto ETFs. These participants could include exchanges, financial institutions, and firms holding cryptocurrencies on balance sheets. As a result, the SEC expects tighter spreads and steadier pricing during trading hours.

The regulator stressed that crypto ETFs already trade in overseas markets, including the United States and Hong Kong. Thailand’s rules aim to provide similar access under domestic supervision.

Crypto Futures Trading Planned for TFEX

Alongside ETFs, the SEC is preparing to enable crypto futures trading on the Thailand Futures Exchange. The regulator wants digital assets recognized as an underlying asset class under the Derivatives Act. 

This change would provide legal clarity for crypto-linked derivatives. Under the proposal, crypto futures would trade on TFEX under the Futures Trading Act. Jomkwan said futures contracts could help investors manage risk more effectively. 

Notably, futures allow hedging strategies similar to those used in commodities and equities markets. The SEC is also reviewing liquidity safeguards for futures trading. Market maker participation remains under consideration to improve order depth and price stability. 

However, final rules will define eligibility and capital requirements. Thailand approved its first spot Bitcoin ETF in 2024 through One Asset Management, using a fund-of-funds setup aimed at institutional investors.

Now, regulators want to go beyond just Bitcoin. In October 2025, the SEC started working on wider ETF rules that could later include groups of different digital tokens. However, officials have not disclosed a final product list.

Related: Thailand Moves to Track Crypto and Gold Flows in Real Time

Oversight Expands Across Digital Asset Ecosystem

Beyond investment products, the SEC is tightening oversight across Thailand’s digital asset sector. The regulator plans clearer rules for online financial influencers. Factual market commentary may remain unlicensed, while investment recommendations will require authorization.

The SEC is also collaborating with the Bank of Thailand on a regulatory sandbox for tokenization. Officials think tokenized bonds and fund units could make investing easier for everyday people. Thailand’s first green token is expected to roll out under this setup.

At the same time, the Bank of Thailand is closely watching stablecoin use, including USDT, due to worries about cross-border transfers and grey money. This oversight comes alongside stronger enforcement by the SEC.

Overall, Thailand is building on its 2021 Digital Assets Decree, which made crypto trading and payments legal. Rather than sudden bans, the country has chosen a steady, rule-based approach. Officials say this approach supports market development while maintaining controls.

The Ministry of Finance also introduced a five-year capital gains tax exemption on crypto transactions. That policy aims to attract global digital asset activity. However, crypto payments remain restricted.

Meanwhile, Thailand’s SEC is advancing rules for crypto ETFs, futures trading, and tokenized products within existing laws. The framework involves the SEC, TFEX, asset managers, and licensed exchanges. Regulators say the approach focuses on structured access, defined oversight, and coordinated market development.

The post Thailand to Introduce Crypto ETFs, Futures in New Rules appeared first on Cryptotale.

The post Thailand to Introduce Crypto ETFs, Futures in New Rules appeared first on Cryptotale.