1. Hong Kong SFC Considers Introducing Virtual Asset Derivatives for Professional Investors
Hong Kong’s Financial Services and Treasury Bureau (FSTB) announced that the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) is exploring virtual asset derivatives trading for professional investors, emphasizing robust risk management. This move aims to diversify market offerings while ensuring secure and transparent transactions. The FSTB will also release its second Virtual Asset Policy Declaration to outline future regulatory directions.
2. Stablecoin Report: Over 80% of Spot Trading Pairs Dominated by Stablecoins in 2025
The Block Research highlights stablecoins’ pivotal role, accounting for 80%+ of crypto spot market volume. This marks a shift from BTC/USD-dominated trading pairs a decade ago, underscoring stablecoins’ liquidity and utility.
3. Trump’s USD1 Stablecoin Struggles with Low Adoption
Kaiko analysts reveal that Trump-affiliated USD1 stablecoin faces weak demand, with limited institutional partnerships and marketing. Despite initial trading volume spikes on PancakeSwap, centralized exchange adoption remains low compared to rivals like RLUSD ($50M daily volume).
4. JPMorgan to Accept Crypto ETFs as Loan Collateral
The bank plans to recognize Bitcoin ETFs (e.g., iShares Bitcoin Trust) as collateral, aligning them with traditional assets. This expansion reflects growing institutional acceptance amid a softening U.S. regulatory climate.
5. Study: 45% of VC-Backed Crypto Projects Failed (2023–2024)
Chainplay’s research shows high failure rates among funded projects: 77% generated under $1,000 monthly revenue. Polychain Capital-backed ventures had a 44% failure rate, while Binance Labs’ reached 72%.
6. SEC Shifts to Formal Rulemaking for Crypto Policies
Chair Paul Atkins announced a “notice-and-comment” approach to replace ad-hoc enforcement actions, aiming for clearer investor protections. The SEC’s Crypto Working Group will release guidelines soon, prioritizing “rational frameworks” for innovation.
7. Bitcoin Range-Bound Amid Lack of Catalysts
QCP Capital notes BTC stabilizes near $105K with muted volatility (IV <40). Speculative trades target $130K September calls, but macroeconomic risks (tariffs, U.S. debt debates) may suppress major breaks.
8. Moscow Exchange Launches Bitcoin Futures for Accredited Investors
Russia’s premier exchange introduced USD-denominated, RUB-settled Bitcoin futures, backed by ETF valuations. The Central Bank permits crypto-linked derivatives but discourages direct investments.
9. Coinbase CEO Warns Bitcoin Could Challenge Dollar Amid U.S. Debt Crisis
Brian Armstrong cited the $37T national debt as a threat to dollar dominance, urging fiscal reforms. Gemini’s Winklevoss twins echoed calls to “buy Bitcoin” as a hedge.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Hong Kong expanding virtual asset derivatives?
A1: To enhance market diversity and attract professional investors with regulated, risk-managed products.
Q2: How do stablecoins dominate crypto trading?
A2: Their price stability and liquidity make them preferred base pairs for 80%+ spot transactions.
Q3: What’s the outlook for Bitcoin ETFs as collateral?
A3: Institutions like JPMorgan signal growing legitimacy, but adoption depends on regulatory clarity.
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10. Ethereum Foundation Emphasizes “Defipunk” Values in New Treasury Policy
The 2025-26 strategy prioritizes privacy, self-custody, and decentralized UIs, allocating 15% annual spending to ecosystem growth.
11. California Bill AB-1052: Inactive Crypto Assets to State Custody
Unused assets after three years may be held (not liquidated) by the state, akin to traditional unclaimed property laws.
12. DevOps Tools Exploited for Crypto Mining Attacks
Wiz reports 25% of cloud environments are vulnerable via misconfigured tools like Docker API and HashiCorp Consul.
13. Bitwise CIO: Bitcoin Optimizes 60/40 Portfolios
Matt Hougan advocates blending BTC with bonds to boost returns (207% vs. 107%) while marginally increasing volatility.
14. Pakistan and U.S. Discuss Digital Asset Collaboration
Talks focused on Bitcoin integration and decentralized infrastructure, aligning with Pakistan’s new Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.