Bitcoin News and Finance: What You Need to Know

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is expected to green-light “a handful” of spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on Wednesday, potentially unleashing a wave of trading this week. On Monday, 10 applicants submitted their final amendments, including Blackrock, which also filed to register its Ishares Bitcoin Trust as a security. SEC Expected to Green-Light Spot Bitcoin ETFs on Wednesday Monday was filled with anticipation in the spot bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) race as 10 applicants filed final amendments with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), meeting the regulator’s 8 a.m. deadline. Market expectations of potential approvals sent BTC soaring past $47,000 . As investors eagerly await the SEC decision on spot bitcoin ETFs, CNBC reported Monday that the securities regulator could unlock the gates for several applicants on Wednesday. Reporter Kate Rooney detailed: Bitcoin ETF is now widely expected to get the green light this week. Two so...

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Gary Gensler has issued warnings about crypto investing amid soaring anticipation for potential spot bitcoin ETF approvals. The SEC chief stressed that crypto investors “should understand they may be deprived of key info” and “other important protections” in connection with their investment. Gary Gensler’s Crypto Warnings The chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Gary Gensler, raised concerns about investing in crypto assets in a series of posts on social media platform X Monday. His warnings came amid heightened anticipation for spot bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) approvals. “Some things to keep in mind if you’re considering investing in crypto assets,” the SEC chief began . Firstly, Gensler warned, “Those offering crypto asset investments/services may not be complying w/ applicable law, including federal securities laws,” elaborating: Investors in crypto asset securities should understand they m...

Visa, a worldwide leader in credit payment technology, has announced that it will include Web3 elements in its customized loyalty program solution. The company partnered with Smartmedia Technologies, a Web3 loyalty rewards startup, to add innovative features to these programs that include virtual worlds, digital wallets, and gamified rewards. Visa Turns to Web3 to Revitalize the World of Loyalty Rewards Programs Visa, one of the largest payments companies in the world, is adding Web3 elements to its loyalty program solution. The company announced that it was revitalizing its traditional engagement solution with Web3 elements to catch the attention of a new kind of customer with more expectations about rewards than just receiving points. For this, Visa partnered with Smartmedia Technologies, a startup that allows adding virtual and digital experiences to rewards programs. Smartmedia has worked with American Express, Accenture, Axe, and Vodafone. Kathleen Pierce-Gilmore, SVP and G...

Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer’s retirement at the end of 2024 opens the door for a new era in cryptocurrency regulation, with Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.) poised to lead the charge in the House Financial Services Committee. Shift in House Financial Services Committee Leadership Could Lead to More Progressive Crypto Legislation In a move that could impact the future of cryptocurrency regulation, U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-Mo.) announced his retirement at the end of 2024. This decision leaves a potential opening for a more crypto-friendly chairmanship of the House Financial Services Committee, following the departure of the current chair, Patrick McHenry, in early 2025 when his term ends. pic.twitter.com/Kp2TmrR7jw — Blaine Luetkemeyer (@RepBlaine) January 4, 2024 Luetkemeyer, who currently holds a position on the House Financial Services Committee, had expressed interest in running for McHenry’s chairmanship. His retirement opens the door for Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.), known for lea...