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After supporting nine blockchains with in-browser crypto wallet support in January, Opera Crypto Browser will soon include scalable blockchain Elrond into its cryptocurrency browser, enabling users to access the network using its integrated Opera Wallet. Web3, which is powered by blockchain, has been the subject of significant bets from Opera and other browsers with a crypto-focused design, such as Brave.
Low-cost airline Flybondi of Argentina has announced that its clients will be able to purchase tokenized tickets through Binance Pay and complete the transaction using the USDC stablecoin. It claims to be the first airline in the world to offer tokenized tickets, also known as "NFTickets," which customers can transfer, resell for a set price, or auction off. Through a partnership with TravelX, a provider of blockchain technology, the low-cost Argentine airline will introduce the service.
The use of cryptocurrencies is increasing in the Kingdom of Bahrain, where local businesses now accept payments made in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC). In order to enable cryptocurrency payments in Bahrain, Binance Pay has partnered with EazyPay, an online payment network governed by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB). In Bahrain, more than 5,000 point-of-sale (POS) terminals and an online payment gateway will accept the recently launched cryptocurrency payment option.
Nomura Holdings, a major player in Japanese investment banking, is entering the market for crypto assets and will introduce a number of cryptocurrency-related new services and product lines in the upcoming months. The new Laser Digital Holdings is a holding company with Swiss corporate status that seeks to build three vertical product offerings, including investor products, venture capital, and secondary trading.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office has received trademark applications from pop artist Christina Aguilera pertaining to non-fungible tokens and the Metaverse. The "Genie in a Bottle" singer aims to provide downloadable multimedia files that include music- and performing-arts-related images, sounds, text, and videos. Additionally, Aguilera hopes to offer entertainment services including musical performances and online appearances.
The Indian government is putting the finishing touches on its position on the legitimacy of cryptocurrencies in order to submit it to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for the nation's "mutual evaluation" by early 2023. A government official confirmed that the Revenue Department has already delivered their opinions and that the Department of Economic Affairs has now been given the duty of preparing a thorough response on India's position on the legality of bitcoin.
Ripple is entering the fight for a greener future along with hundreds of other companies even while its legal dispute with the Securities and Exchange Commission of the United States (SEC) continues. Ripple declared that it has joined more than 375 other companies in the Climate Pledge, a commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2040 in an effort to build a more sustainable future.
In order to meet the growing demand from investors for cryptocurrencies, Societe Generale (GLE), the third-largest French bank by market capitalization, has launched new services for its asset manager clients. According to the bank, the services would enable asset managers to provide cryptocurrency funds in a simple and tailored manner within a framework that complies with European legislation.
Mike McGlone, senior commodity strategist at Bloomberg Intelligence, asserted in a recent tweet that the flagship cryptocurrency, Bitcoin's value has fallen to an extraordinary discount while maintaining that it is still a secure investment for any long-term investors. McGlone has frequently emphasized that the price of Bitcoin is on track to soar toward $100,000 despite the protracted market turbulence.
In the next four to five years, or by 2027, worldwide cryptocurrency usage might soar and reach billions, according to Pantera CEO Dan Morehead, and this increasing demand will cause price increases. According to Morehead, cryptocurrencies are in a secular bull market and will likely trade separately from conventional risk assets in the next few years. Dan Morehead has made it plain that the prolonged crypto winter doesn't worry him.
Bitcoin's Open Interest has surged by $1.8 billion as its price broke the $27,000 mark, indicating a strong influx of investor interest. Open Interest tracks the total value of Bitcoin futures contracts open on derivative exchanges, with rising figures signifying increased market activity and potential volatility. The recent jump from $11.04 billion to $12.81 billion suggests heightened trading and leveraged positions. The future direction of Bitcoin's price remains uncertain, with the surge potentially fueled by shorts covering positions or longs hoping for further gains. The funding rate suggests a balanced mix of long and short positions.
Morgan Creek Capital founder Mark Yusko predicts a bright future for Bitcoin (BTC) as institutional capital worth hundreds of billions is expected to enter the market. Yusko points to Bitcoin's historical trend of adding a zero to its price following each halving event, with the next one slated for April 2024. He anticipates a 1.5x increase from the current all-time high, potentially reaching $100,000. Additionally, Yusko believes Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) will be approved by late 2023 or early 2024, leading to a substantial influx of capital into the cryptocurrency.
Citigroup has unveiled Citi Token Services, a permissioned blockchain platform designed for institutional clients, offering access to tokenized deposits, cross-border payments, and automated trade finance around the clock. This move aligns with Citigroup's goal of creating a 24-7, on-chain, programmable financial system. The partnership with Maersk enables instant payments through smart contracts, benefiting companies with numerous vendors. Citi Token Services also aids corporate treasurers in managing global liquidity more efficiently. Meanwhile, JPMorgan is reportedly still in the early stages of exploring a similar private blockchain service, lagging behind Citigroup's innovation.
Bitcoin is making a strong comeback, currently priced at $26,684 and holding over 50% of the total cryptocurrency market, boasting a market cap of approximately $520 billion. This milestone is significant as it contrasts with the stagnation or decline of many alternative cryptocurrencies (altcoins). Ethereum, the closest rival, sits at $1,632.09, with other altcoins showing modest gains or losses. Bitcoin's resurgence aligns with historical trends, often thriving during bear markets, cementing its status as a digital "safe haven." Despite gains, it remains below its peak dominance levels, but its return to prominence is noteworthy.
Animoca Brands subsidiary Darewise Entertainment is set to introduce the first-ever metaverse token on the Bitcoin blockchain. The token is aimed at powering a comprehensive ecosystem for gaming, brands, and real-world experiences. This move represents a significant expansion of Bitcoin's capabilities beyond a store of value. The metaverse token will facilitate in-game assets and virtual lands for the Life Beyond metaverse project, marking a new era for Bitcoin. Darewise Entertainment is partnering with Horizen Labs to develop and expand the Ordinals ecosystem on Bitcoin, with more innovations expected in the coming months.