"portal asset management" "cryptocurrency hedge fund" or "crypto hedge fund" or "crypto investment fund" or "crypto fund" or "crypto asset management"

Midpoint to Acquire Blockchain Technology Company

Midpoint Holdings Ltd (TSXV: MPT) (Frankfurt: 8MH1) ("Midpoint" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a purchase agreement dated December 14, 2021, pursuant to which the Company proposes to acquire all of the issued and outstanding share capital of Blockchain World Ltd ("BWL") a company focused on building innovative consumer-focused blockchain-based products (the "Transaction"). BWL owns premium domain names Blockchain.eu (Europe) and Blockchain.com.au (Australia) and will be launching new offerings in early 2022.

In consideration for the Transaction, Midpoint proposes to issue 10,000,000 common shares (the "Consideration Shares") to the existing shareholders of BWL (collectively, the "Vendors"). The Consideration Shares will be subject to restrictions on resale until the date which is six (6) months from the closing date of the Transaction.

In addition to the Consideration Shares, the Vendors will also be entitled to receive the following additional common shares (the "Performance Shares") subject to the satisfaction of the following performance milestones:

(a) 5,000,000 Performance Shares will be issuable to the Vendors upon the official launch of the website domain "blockchain.com.au" (or such earlier date as mutually agreed upon by the parties), in the event such official launch occurs within 9 months of the closing date of the Transaction;

(b) 5,000,000 Performance Shares will be issuable to the Vendors upon the official launch of the website domain "blockchain.eu" (or such earlier date as mutually agreed upon by the parties), in the event such official launch occurs within 9 months of the closing date of the Transaction;

(c) 5,000,000 Performance Shares will be issuable to the Vendors upon the achievement by BWL of CTV or AUM of no less than $20,000,000 within 24 months of the official launch; and

(d) 5,000,000 Performance Shares will be issuable to the Vendors upon the achievement by BWL of CTV or AUM of no less than $50,000,000 within 30 months of the occurrence of the official launch.

"CTV" means the cumulative gross transaction value of all digital currency transactions processed through website domains maintained by BWL, for a given period, calculated in $CAD.

"AUM" means the total amount of digital currency held by the custodial wallet of all customers of BWL, as calculated on the last business day of any particular month based on the average market price of the applicable currency during such day.

BWL was founded by Domenic Carosa as a B2C ("Business to Consumer") blockchain-focused product organization. Domenic is a highly regarded entrepreneur and early adopter of blockchain technology. Notably, he is the Founder and Chairman of Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BNXA) and Cryptocurrency fund Apollo Capital. Through Domenic's stewardship, Banxa has achieved significant transactional revenue growth alongside increased partnership roll-outs. Upon successful completion of the Transaction, Domenic Carosa will join the Midpoint board of directors and Derek Ivany will step down as a director to accommodate the appointment.

Commenting on the Transaction, Midpoint President Derek Ivany stated, "We are very pleased to have consummated this Transaction with Dom and his innovative company. It has been one of our stated corporate goals to augment our consumer-facing business with applicable blockchain technology. As such, we believe that this Transaction represents a very compelling opportunity to take Midpoint into the digital asset space in order to assist in building shareholder value in 2022 and beyond. The addition of Domenic Carosa will further bolster Midpoint's board with highly relevant blockchain and cryptocurrency experience that will be vital as the Company moves forward in this arena. Midpoint's ability to tap into Domenic's vast network within the digital asset sector will be of tremendous value as the Company assesses further product expansion and partnership opportunities."

Domenic Carosa commented, "I'm looking forward to working with the Midpoint team in order to expand their presence in the blockchain space. I see significant opportunities to leverage their consumer-facing foreign exchange platform that has been the backbone of their business. One of my first priorities will be to help build the internal blockchain capabilities and then oversee the execution of the strategy."

According to Markets and Markets, from 2020 - 2025 the global blockchain market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 67.3%, reaching $39.7 billion by 2025. Further, according to Statista, the financial sector currently accounts for more than 60% of blockchain's worldwide market value. In line with these potentially accelerating market trends, Midpoint believes there is an opportunity to capture synergies between its existing foreign exchange platform and the blockchain business of BWL. Midpoint's core competency in the consumer-facing foreign exchange space lends itself to expansion via broadened scope and potential product offerings within the digital asset sector.

The Company is at arms-length from each of BWL, and the Vendors. In connection with completion of the Transaction, the Company does not expect to assume any material liabilities, nor does it expect to devote the majority of its working capital or resources to the development of BWL. As a result, the Transaction does not constitute a fundamental acquisition for the Company, within the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Transaction will not result in the creation of a new insider, or a change of control, of the Company, within the meaning of applicable securities laws.

Completion of the Transaction remains subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and cannot be completed until such approval has been received. No finder's fees or commissions are payable in connection with the Transaction.

About Midpoint

Headquartered in London, UK, Midpoint is an FCA authorized payments institutions specializing in cross-border payments and foreign exchange. SMEs, overseas professionals, property owners, foreign students, individuals, and anyone involved in international payments use Midpoint for transparent, multi-party, multi-currency services. Midpoint currently handles transactions in 27 currencies with the ability to collect and transfer across over 200 countries. This highly secure platform provides customers with the most cost-effective F.X. at the Midpoint of the interbank buy/sell rate, therefore removing the spread as well as hidden costs and fees.
Midpoint Holdings Limited is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange and cross-listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.

For information on Midpoint, please visit: https://www.midpoint.com .

For further information please contact :

Corbin Comishin, CFO David Wong, Chairman
Midpoint Holdings Limited, 22-25 Portman Close, Marylebone,
505 Kootenay Street, Nelson, London W1H 6BS, United Kingdom
British Columbia V1L 1K9, Canada Tel: 0044 20 7448 3082
Tel: 001 250 352 7667 Email: info@midpoint.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release and has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this news release.

Forward-looking information

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing Midpoint and its business and affairs, readers should refer to Midpoint's Management's Discussion and Analysis. Midpoint undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities laws.


News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia

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Keynotes, Educational Panels and 88 Companies to Present at the Planet MicroCap Showcase on May 3-5, 2022 at Bally's Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV

Keynotes, Educational Panels and 88 Companies to Present at the Planet MicroCap Showcase on May 3-5, 2022 at Bally's Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV

SNN Network presents the Planet MicroCap Showcase taking place on May 3-5, 2022, where 88 MicroCap public and private companies will be presenting at Bally's Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV

Event website: www.PlanetMicroCapShowcase.com

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Banxa Holdings Inc. Reports Results of Its Annual General and Special Meeting

Banxa Holdings Inc. Reports Results of Its Annual General and Special Meeting

Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV:BNXA)(OTCQX:BNXAF)(FSE:AC00) ("Banxa" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that all matters submitted to shareholders for approval as set out in detail in the Company's management information circular ("Circular") dated February 16, 2022 were approved at the annual general and special meeting of the shareholders of the Company held on March 31, 2022 (the "Meeting"). At the Meeting RSM Canada LLP was re-appointed as auditor of the Company, and the incumbent members of the board of directors, being Doron Cohen, Domenic Carosa, Matthew Cain and Joshua Landau were re-elected

In addition to the above, disinterested shareholders of the Company voted in favour of making certain amendments to the escrow agreement dated September 27, 2018 (the "Escrow Agreement") among the Company (formerly as A-Labs Capital I Corp.), TSX Trust Company and certain shareholders of the Company, to align the Escrow Agreement with changes made to the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV" or the "Exchange") Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies, which became effective as at January 1, 2021 (the "New CPC Policy").

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BANXA Announces AUD $106 Million February Transaction Volume & Secures Cryptocurrency Custody Registration

BANXA Announces AUD $106 Million February Transaction Volume & Secures Cryptocurrency Custody Registration

Highlights:

  • February 2022 Total Transaction Volume (TTV) of AUD $106 million (USD $76 million) up 48% Year-on-Year
  • Five new partners signed in February, including TokenPocket, ApolloX, IDEX, Sologenic and IX Swap
  • Added two new fiat currencies in February, now supporting a total of 32
  • Secured Netherlands cryptocurreny custody registration from the Dutch National Bank (DnB)

Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV:BNXA)(OTCQX:BNXAF)(FSE:AC00) ("Banxa" or "The Company"), the world's first listed payment service provider (PSP) and RegTech platform for the digital assets industry, has today announced its February 2022 TTV, recording AUD $106 million (USD $76 million), and growth of 48% Year-on-Year. The TTV is broadly in line with the decline in volumes of the overall cryptocurrency market

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Banxa Breaks Down Crypto Barriers by Launching World-Leading Layer 2 Fiat On-Ramp

Banxa Breaks Down Crypto Barriers by Launching World-Leading Layer 2 Fiat On-Ramp

Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BNXA) (OTCQX: BNXAF) (FSE: AC00) ("Banxa" or "The Company"), payment service provider (PSP) and RegTech platform for the digital assets industry, is proud to announce the launch of its world-leading Layer 2 (L2) Fiat On-Ramp.

While the cryptocurrency market has significantly grown, heavy fees and complex purchasing systems have weighed upon the industry providing unnecessary complexities and barriers to entry. The Australian-founded organisation, Banxa, has developed purchasing for a range of L2 protocols - available now - to eliminate these barriers. These protocols currently include Arbitrum, Optimism, and zkSync, allowing users to pay with Banxa's wide range of global and local payment options, including credit card and bank transfers, for direct purchasing on L2.

The L2 Fiat On-Ramp will completely disrupt the current system by removing high "gas fees" accumulated throughout the crypto transaction process. At the same time, it will also be a catalyst to reducing fulfillment times, an issue faced within an industry that prides itself on agility and fast transactions. In 2021, Banxa processed one order every 18 seconds a day, a transaction value over USD 880 million, showcasing the true scale of transactions moving through the market.

"The crypto industry faces a complex web of challenges and barriers that might have discouraged consumers and merchants from making purchases in the past. The launch of our L2 Fiat On-Ramp offers greater accessibility to a whole new audience, breaking down two key entry barriers: high fees and faster processing times. We are honored to be launching this world-leading product as a way to transform the industry," said Banxa CEO Holger Arians.

Banxa is a pioneer in cryptocurrency as it has created its own technology on blockchain and is rapidly expanding. The business offers a market-leading range of currencies and payment methods globally.

Since its January 6th, 2021 IPO, Banxa has gone from strength to strength, growing from 38 to over 200 team members, adding over 31 new coins and additional payment methods, such as SEPA Instant and others. Additionally, the company has accelerated its already rapid onboarding of new partners, securing 103% growth in 2021 alone.

In celebration of this launch, Banxa is offering free purchasing Layer 2 with Optimism, Arbitrum and zkSync for a limited time[2]. User's spread fees will be waived; however, standard payment surcharges will apply, such as credit card transaction fees. This offer is now available to all users on these protocols.

ENDS

About Banxa

Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BNXA) (OTCQX: BNXAF) (FSE: AC00) powers the world's largest digital asset platforms by providing payments infrastructure and regulatory compliance across global markets. Banxa's vision and mission is to build the bridge that provides people in every part of the world access to a fairer and more equitable financial system. Banxa is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, with European headquarters in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

For further information, go to www.banxa.com

This news release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, and contingencies.

These statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "may", "should", "will", "could", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "anticipate", "expect", "believe" or "continue", or the negative thereof or similar variations. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance.

Banxa's statements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and conditions, many of which are outside of Banxa's control, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by the inherent risks and uncertainties of the Company's business, including: Banxa's assumptions in making forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect; adverse market conditions, including risks related to COVID-19 and risks that future results may vary from historical results.

Except as required by securities law, Banxa does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

---------------------

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Per: "DOMENIC CAROSA" https://twitter.com/dcarosa
Domenic Carosa
Chairman (1-888-218-6863)

CONTACTS:
Investor Relations:
North America: +1 (604) 609 6169
International: +61 407 790 016
Email: Investor@banxa.com

Lytham Partners, LLC
Ben Shamsian
New York/Phoenix
Email: shamsian@lythampartners.com

Media Contacts:
Dave Malcolm, Chief Marketing Officer
Email: dave.malcolm@banxa.com

Michelle Boland, PR Group
Email: michelleb@prgroup.com.au

News Provided by Newsfile via QuoteMedia

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Banxa Announces Partnership with the Leading Hardware Wallet Provider Ledger

Banxa Announces Partnership with the Leading Hardware Wallet Provider Ledger

Banxa Holdings Inc. (TSXV: BNXA) (OTCQX: BNXAF) (FSE: AC00) ("Banxa" or "The Company"), the world's first listed payment service provider (PSP) and RegTech platform for the digital assets industry, is excited to announce a partnership with Ledger, the world-leading hardware wallet provider.

Customers will now be able to access Banxa's global payments network through the Ledger Live app, opening up a wide variety of payment options for purchasing crypto on their Ledger Nano hardware wallets. Banxa supports competitive payment options for users in the US, Canada, Europe and the Australian markets, with direct bank transfers and credit card transactions.

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Canadian flag overlaying digital stock market chart with red graphics.

Robinhood, WonderFi Deal Marks Bold C$250 Million Bet on Canada’s Crypto Future

Just in time for Canada Crypto Week, Robinhood Markets (NASDAQ:HOOD) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Canadian digital asset firm WonderFi Technologies (TSX:WNDR,OTCQB:WONDF) for approximately C$250 million (US$179 million) in an all-cash transaction.

The deal, which amounts to a 41percent premium over WonderFi's Monday (May 12) closing price, is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2025, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.

The acquisition marks a significant expansion of Robinhood's international footprint. WonderFi operates two of Canada's longest-standing regulated crypto platforms, Bitbuy and Coinsquare, managing over C$2.1 billion in assets.

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CN Tower with red and blue lights, surrounded by starry sky and digital network pattern.

Web3 Leaders Gather in Toronto for Canada Crypto Week

From May 11 to 17, world leaders in blockchain will gather in Toronto for Canada Crypto Week, a series of events highlighting the evolution of digital finance and the Web3 economy.

In focus this year are deep dives into pressing topics like regulation, tokenization, decentralized finance (DeFi), the future of Web3 infrastructure and how artificial intelligence (AI) will transform the crypto landscape.

Also on the agenda is Canada’s growing role in the global crypto conversation.

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Bitcoin coin with upward arrow, symbolizing increase and growth in a digital landscape.

Crypto Market Recap: Bitcoin Breaks US$100,000, Coinbase Makes US$2.9 Billion Power Play

Here's a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Friday (May 9) as of 9:00 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ethereum and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

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Bitcoin symbol over rising stock chart with green arrow.

Crypto Market Recap: New Hampshire Launches First State Crypto Reserve, Trump Stirs Controversy

Here's a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Wednesday (May 7) as of 9:00 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ethereum and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

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Golden Bitcoin puzzle pieces on a reflective surface.

Crypto Market Recap: Strategy Buys US$180 Million Worth of Bitcoin, GENIUS Act Stalls

Here's a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Monday (May 5) as of 9:00 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ethereum and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

Bitcoin and Ethereum price update

Bitcoin (BTC) was priced at US$94,808.21 as markets wrapped for the day, down 1.2 percent in 24 hours. The day's range has seen a low of US$93,704.12 and a high of US$94,838.85.

Bitcoin performance, May 5, 2025.

Bitcoin performance, May 5, 2025.

Chart via TradingView.

Bitcoin's price has been stuck in a range of US$93,000 to US$97,900 since late April, failing to break above the US$98,000 resistance level. Profit-taking volume above statistical norms suggests strong selling pressure despite a large portion of Bitcoin's supply being in profit, creating potential for volatile price swings.

Analysts are waiting to see if Bitcoin can break above US$95,000 and then US$98,000 to aim for higher prices, while failure could lead to a drop toward US$92,000 or even lower targets between US$85,000 and US$75,000. Positive exchange-traded fund inflows and the upcoming US Federal Reserve meeting could provide bullish catalysts.

Ethereum (ETH) ended the day at US$1,824.90, a 0.7 percent decline over the past 24 hours. The cryptocurrency reached an intraday low of US$1,798.96 and saw a daily high of US$1,825.38.

Altcoin price update

  • Solana (SOL) reached its peak at the end of the day, hitting a value of US$146.95, up 0.2 percent over 24 hours. SOL experienced a low of US$143.72.
  • XRP is trading at US$2.16, reflecting a 1.5 percent decrease over 24 hours and its highest point of the day. The cryptocurrency recorded an intraday low of US$2.11.
  • Sui (SUI) is priced at US$3.47, showing an increaseof 5.4 percent over the past 24 hours. It achieved a daily low of US$3.40 and a high of US$3.48.
  • Cardano (ADA) is trading at US$0.6716, down 3.3 percent over the past 24 hours. Its lowest price of the day was US$0.6566, and it reached a high of US$0.6717.

Today's crypto news to know

Saylor’s Strategy buys US$180 million worth of Bitcoin

Michael Saylor’s Strategy (NASDAQ:MSTR) has acquired another 1,895 BTC at an average price of US$95,167, bringing its total Bitcoin holdings to a staggering 555,450 BTC worth over US$38 billion.


The latest US$180.3 million purchase, funded through proceeds from 2024 common and STRK at-the-market offerings, signals the firm’s unwavering commitment to a Bitcoin-centric treasury strategy.

As of Sunday (May 4), Strategy’s average purchase price across all of its holdings stood at US$68,550 per coin, showing the company’s profitable long-term conviction. The market is watching closely as Strategy continues to be one of the largest institutional holders pushing Bitcoin as a macro asset.

Australia's path forward on crypto regulation

The Australian Labor Party secured a landslide victory in Saturday's (May 3) election, garnering 54.9 percent of the two-party-preferred vote compared to 45.1 percent for the coalition of the Liberal and National parties.

While both major groups committed to cryptocurrency reform during their campaigns, the opposition specifically promised to release draft legislation within 100 days of the election.

The burgeoning Australian cryptocurrency industry has been actively advocating for the government to prioritize the development and implementation of clear and supportive regulations. In a Monday statement, the government said a draft of digital asset legislation is slated to be released next month.

Bipartisan concerns stall GENIUS Act

A group of bipartisan lawmakers set back progress on the GENIUS Act on Saturday, issuing a joint statement regarding an updated version of the text released last week. This story was first reported by Politico.

These lawmakers, who voted in March to advance the bill, have indicated they would not support the legislation if it proceeds through Congress in its current form, highlighting the contentious nature of the proposed legislation and the need for potential amendments to garner broader support in the Senate.

The group is calling for “stronger provisions on anti-money laundering, foreign issuers, national security, preserving the safety and soundness of our financial system and accountability for those who don’t meet the act’s requirements."

“We must advance legislation that enshrines American leadership in the digital asset space and protects the US dollar for centuries to come. That time is now," Senator Bill Haggerty, one of the bill’s authors, posted on X.

“We have a choice here. Move forward and make any remaining changes needed in a bipartisan way, or show that digital asset and crypto legislation remains a solely Republican issue.”

The Senate is expected to begin considering the stablecoin bill in the coming days, with the first procedural vote anticipated as soon as next week. The bill needs support from at least seven Democrats to pass.

Arizona governor vetoes Bitcoin Reserve bill, labels crypto "untested investment"

In a decisive move against digital asset adoption at the state level, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed a controversial bill that would have allowed the state to invest in Bitcoin using seized funds.

Senate Bill 1025 narrowly passed state legislature and aimed to establish a crypto reserve managed by the state, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the US. However, Hobbs dismissed the proposal, saying Arizona’s retirement and treasury systems should avoid “untested investments like virtual currency,” and emphasizing fiscal conservatism and a cautious approach to emerging financial instruments, even as crypto assets gain traction globally.

The veto effectively halts what could have been a landmark experiment in state-level Bitcoin adoption.

Maldives courts crypto billions in bid to become a blockchain finance hub

The Maldives, traditionally known for luxury tourism, is pivoting toward digital finance with a massive US$8.8 billion crypto investment deal led by MBS Global Investments, the family office of Sheikh Nayef bin Eid Al Thani.

The deal, which dwarfs the island nation’s US$7 billion GDP, involves building a massive blockchain-focused financial hub spanning 830,000 square meters and employing up to 16,000 people.

Maldives Finance Minister Moosa Zameer called the initiative crucial for economic diversification and a potential solution to mounting foreign debt obligations due over the next two years. Early financing commitments have already surpassed US$4 billion, with the remainder to be raised via equity and debt.

The proposed Maldives International Financial Center would transform the country into a key player in the global digital asset space. If realized, it could mark the most aggressive national pivot to crypto infrastructure in the Global South.

Binance to roll out crypto payments in Kyrgyzstan

Binance has signed a landmark partnership with Kyrgyzstan’s National Agency for Investments, aiming to introduce crypto payments and blockchain education as part of a broader national tech initiative. Through a memorandum of understanding, Binance Pay will soon enable crypto transactions for local residents and tourists, while Binance Academy will collaborate with Kyrgyz financial regulators and institutions to build out educational infrastructure.

The agreement was announced during Kyrgyzstan’s first Council for the Development of Digital Assets, with President Sadyr Japarov in attendance, highlighting high-level state support for crypto integration.

Binance’s regional head, Kyrylo Khomiakov, stressed the importance of the partnership in shaping regulatory clarity and fostering innovation in the country. Kyrgyzstan also committed to launching a central bank digital currency, the “digital som,” after a law granting it legal tender status was signed on April 18.

Tether teases launch of new AI platform

After announcing it was developing a website for an artificial intelligence (AI) tool in December 2024, Tether is teasing the upcoming launch of Tether AI, a new platform designed to offer “personal infinite intelligence."

The platform, originally slated to launch by the end of Q1 2025, will be able to directly interact with and facilitate payments made using USDt and Bitcoin through a peer-to-peer network.

It will not use API keys or depend on a single point of control. Instead, Tether AI will feature a fully open-source AI runtime operating on an intentionally resilient and censorship-resistant peer-to-peer network deeply integrated with Tether's open-source Wallet Development Kit (WDK), which was released in November 2024. By leveraging the WDK, Tether aims to facilitate self-custodial (or non-custodial) management of USDt and Bitcoin.

Don't forget to follow us @INN_Technology for real-time news updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Bitcoin coin on a pedestal surrounded by question marks, symbolizing uncertainty.

Crypto Market Recap: Trump’s US$2 Billion Stablecoin Deal with UAE Sparks Ethics Debate

Here's a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Friday (May 2) as of 9:00 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ethereum and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

Bitcoin and Ethereum price update

Bitcoin (BTC) was priced at US$96,855.98 as markets wrapped for the day, up 0.5 percent in 24 hours. The day's range has seen a low of US$96,855.69 and a high of US$97,281.99.

Bitcoin performance, May 2, 2025.

Bitcoin performance, May 2, 2025.

Chart via TradingView.

Bitcoin network economist Timothy Peterson suggests that Bitcoin could reach a new all-time high, potentially reaching US$135,000 in the event of a short squeeze in the next 100 days.

His broader outlook is partly based on low market volatility, indicating risk appetite.

Ethereum (ETH) ended the day at US$1,839.38, a 0.5 percent decrease over the past 24 hours. The cryptocurrency reached an intraday low of US$1,834 and reached its daily high of US$1,865.38.

Altcoin price update

  • Solana (SOL) ended the day valued at US$148.08, down 1.4 percent over 24 hours. SOL experienced a low of US$147.97 and peaked at $151.55.
  • XRP traded at US$2.21, reflecting a 0.6 percent decrease over 24 hours. The cryptocurrency recorded an intraday low of US$2.20 and reached its highest point at US$2.24.
  • Sui (SUI) was priced at US$3.42, showing a decreaseof 6.7 percent over the past 24 hours. It achieved a daily low of US$3.41 and a high of US$3.49.
  • Cardano (ADA) was trading at US$0.6913, down 1.9 percent over the past 24 hours, and its lowest price of the day. It reached a high of US$0.7149.

Today's crypto news to know

Trump-backed stablecoin triggers US$2 Billion UAE deal

MGX, a United Arab Emirates (UAE) investment firm tied to Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, has committed to a US$2 billion investment in Binance — and it’s doing so using “USD1,” a stablecoin controlled by the Trump family.


The coin was developed by World Liberty Financial, a company where Trump is listed as “chief crypto advocate” and his sons serve as “Web3 ambassadors.” The token, launched shortly after Trump’s re-election, has already sold over US$550 million worth of coins — much of it after November.

The deal was announced in Dubai by Zach Witkoff, son of Trump’s former envoy to the Middle East, who appeared on stage with Eric Trump. Democrats have accused the move of being a front for corruption, with Senator Elizabeth Warren calling it “a shady deal backed by a foreign government.”

With Trump set to visit the UAE and Saudi Arabia in two weeks, critics say the overlap between his private interests and foreign diplomacy has never been more naked.

Strategy doubles down on Bitcoin with fresh US$21 billion raise

Michael Saylor’s Strategy (NASDAQ:MSTR) reported a US$16.5 billion quarterly loss and a massive US$5.9 billion writedown on its Bitcoin stash — but that hasn’t slowed its hunger for more.

Instead, the firm announced a new US$21 billion stock offering, the proceeds of which will go toward purchasing even more Bitcoin. As of April, Strategy held 553,555 BTC acquired at an average cost of US$68,459 — now worth around US$53 billion at current prices. The company is targeting a 25 percent BTC yield and a US$15 billion gain by the end of the year, signaling a long-term vision despite short-term pain.

Morgan Stanley moves toward crypto trading on E*Trade

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) is reportedly gearing up to launch direct crypto trading for users of E*Trade, its retail investment arm, in a major leap toward integrating digital assets with mainstream finance.

The bank, which acquired E*Trade in 2020, currently only offers crypto ETF access, but new plans would allow clients to buy and sell actual tokens. Insiders say Morgan Stanley is in talks with multiple crypto-native firms to provide backend infrastructure, signaling a shift from hesitancy to full participation. The move comes just days after the US Federal Reserve scrapped prior crypto-related restrictions, effectively greenlighting banks to enter the space.

With more than 5 million active users, E*Trade could become one of the largest onramps into crypto for average investors if the plan moves forward.

CIA deputy director discusses Bitcoin's role in intelligence

During an appearance on Anthony Pompliano’s podcast, Michael Ellis, deputy director of the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), said the agency is increasingly incorporating Bitcoin as a tool in its counter-intelligence operations, also noting that working with the cryptocurrency is a matter of national security.

“People may have thought Bitcoin was anonymous, but I'd say it's synonymous, and there's a lot of work that we do with law enforcement to try to track illicit crypto payments by bad actors,” he said.

“Whether they're drug cartels or terrorist groups, outlaw regimes use cryptocurrency," Ellis continued.

“There is tremendous potential for law enforcement and the intelligence community to be able to use cryptocurrency to help track what our adversaries are doing to disrupt it.”

Coinbase to delist MOVE token

Coinbase Global (NASDAQ:COIN) will halt trading of the Movement Network token (MOVE) starting May 15.

In a Thursday (May 1) announcement on X, the exchange said the decision is due to MOVE’s inability to meet its listing requirements. Following this news, the price of MOVE dropped to below US$0.20.

Later, Movement Labs confirmed the suspension of co-founder Rushi Manche due to a controversial market maker agreement he facilitated, which led to an external investigation and Coinbase's delisting.

Metaplanet issues bonds to increase Bitcoin holdings

Japan’s Metaplanet (OTCQX:MTPLF,TSE:3350) issued 3.6 billion yen, equivalent to roughly US$25 million, in bonds on Friday, earmarked to buy more Bitcoin. The newly issued bonds, which according to a filing were sold entirely to EVO FUND, carry no interest and can be redeemed at par value by October 31, 2025.

Metaplanet has been actively acquiring Bitcoin throughout 2025 and currently holds 5,000 BTC worth over US$485 million following its most recent purchase of 330 BTC on April 20.

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Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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