DeFi Total Value Locked Surpasses $60 Billion Milestone
The decentralized finance (DeFi) sector has reached a significant milestone, with the total value locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols surpassing $60 billion. This surge in TVL underscores the continued growth and adoption of DeFi as investors seek alternative financial services and opportunities. Factors such as increased yield farming incentives and the expansion of DeFi offerings contribute to the sector's ongoing momentum and attractiveness to both retail and institutional participants. (BeInCrypto)
Ethereum's Dencun Upgrade Goes Live on Holesky Testnet
Ethereum has successfully implemented its Dencun upgrade, which aims to improve the network's security and scalability. The upgrade introduces several changes, including a reduction in gas fees, enhanced transaction throughput, and increased security measures. With these improvements, Ethereum seeks to address long-standing concerns and maintain its position as a leading blockchain platform for decentralized applications and smart contracts. (Blockworks)
Crypto Trading Volume Reaches Highest Levels Since June 2022
Crypto trading has surged to its busiest pace since June 2022, with exchanges witnessing a significant increase in spot trading volume. This spike in activity reflects renewed investor interest in the cryptocurrency market, driven by factors such as positive sentiment, institutional adoption, and growing mainstream acceptance. The heightened trading volume suggests a bullish outlook for the crypto market in the near term, with potential for further price appreciation across various digital assets. (CoinDesk)
Neon EVM Launches Native Solana-EVM Swaps
Neon Labs has introduced Neon EVM, a groundbreaking protocol designed to enable smooth swaps between Solana-based assets and Ethereum-based tokens. Neon EVM aims to bridge the gap between the Solana and Ethereum ecosystems, offering users the flexibility to seamlessly engage in cross-chain DeFi activities. By leveraging Solana's high throughput and low fees alongside Ethereum's established smart contract capabilities, Neon EVM opens up new opportunities for developers and users alike, fostering interoperability and innovation in the decentralized finance space. (Crypto Briefing)
EigenLayer Removes Staking Cap, TVL Surges Past $3 Billion
EigenLayer, a liquid restaking protocol, has temporarily eliminated its 200,000 ether (ETH) per-protocol staking cap, resulting in a rapid $750 million increase in total value locked (TVL) within hours. This move underscores the protocol's flexibility and responsiveness to user demand, driving significant growth in its TVL which now exceeds $3 billion. EigenLayer's decision highlights its commitment to providing enhanced staking opportunities and accommodating the rising interest in decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols. (CoinDesk)
Ethereum Name Service Partners with GoDaddy to Offer Website Domains
In a significant development for decentralized web infrastructure, the Ethereum Name Service (ENS) has partnered with GoDaddy, a leading domain registrar. This collaboration enables users to effortlessly associate their Ethereum-based .eth domains with traditional website URLs, streamlining the process of integrating blockchain-based domains into existing web infrastructure. By leveraging GoDaddy's extensive user base and infrastructure, ENS aims to broaden the accessibility and adoption of decentralized web technologies, offering users more options for managing their online presence securely and efficiently. (Decrypt)
Solana Sees Record Number of New Addresses in January
Solana blockchain has hit a significant milestone with an all-time high in monthly new addresses registered during January. This surge reflects a substantial increase in user adoption and interest in the Solana network, fueled by its reputation for high throughput and low transaction costs. The milestone not only demonstrates Solana's growing popularity but also underscores its appeal as a leading platform for decentralized applications and token creation, positioning it as a strong competitor in the blockchain ecosystem. (The Block)
Robinhood Adds Support for MetaMask Wallet Integration
Robinhood has introduced support for MetaMask wallet integration, enabling users to connect their MetaMask wallets to the Robinhood platform. This integration allows Robinhood users to view their Ethereum-based assets held in MetaMask alongside their traditional investments on the Robinhood app. By expanding its compatibility with MetaMask, Robinhood aims to offer greater flexibility and convenience for cryptocurrency investors, facilitating a more seamless experience for managing diversified portfolios. (Decrypt)
Ripple Sets Sights on US Expansion for Payment Solutions
Ripple, a prominent player in blockchain-based payments, is poised to ramp up its operations in the United States, targeting the domestic payments market. The company's strategy revolves around offering solutions that facilitate faster, more cost-effective, and transparent cross-border transactions for financial institutions. With a focus on leveraging its RippleNet network and innovative technology, including its digital asset XRP, Ripple aims to strengthen its position in the US market. This expansion effort aligns with Ripple's broader mission to revolutionize global payments by bridging traditional finance with blockchain technology. (PYMNTS)
Pyth Network Launches Second Phase of Token Airdrop
Pyth Network has announced the second phase of its token airdrop program, distributing tokens to eligible users who contributed to the project's growth. This phase follows the successful completion of Pyth's first airdrop, aiming to further incentivize community involvement and engagement. With this initiative, Pyth Network seeks to foster a vibrant ecosystem and reward participants for their support and contributions to the project's development. (The Block)
