Coins.ph Partners with Palawan Pawnshop for Cash-Out Services
Coins.ph has formed a partnership with Palawan Pawnshop to offer cash-out services across the Philippines. Users of Coins.ph can now withdraw funds from their digital wallets at any Palawan Pawnshop branch nationwide. This collaboration aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for Filipinos who rely on digital financial services for remittances and everyday transactions. The initiative is part of Coins.ph's efforts to expand its network and improve financial inclusion in the country. (Manila Bulletin)
Circle Secures MICA-Compliant EMI License for European Expansion
Circle, a prominent stablecoin issuer, has successfully obtained an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework in Europe. This milestone allows Circle to operate within the regulatory framework for digital assets across the European Union. The license enables Circle to continue issuing and managing stablecoins like USDC, ensuring compliance with EU financial regulations. This move positions Circle to expand its services and strengthen its presence in the European market amid growing regulatory scrutiny over digital currencies. (Coindesk)
Nigeria Launches AI and Blockchain Research Centers
Nigeria has established centers dedicated to researching artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology, aimed at fostering innovation and digital transformation in the country. These centers signify a strategic move to enhance technological education and development in emerging fields. There are also plans to further support these initiatives with innovation sandboxes, which will aid in fostering more local startups. Nigeria aims to position itself as a hub for technological advancement and entrepreneurship in Africa. (Cointelegraph)
Galaxy Digital Optimistic About Crypto Venture Capital Despite Market Downturn
Galaxy Digital reports a positive shift in sentiment within the crypto venture capital sector, noting an improvement despite the recent market downturn. The global financial services firm highlights growing interest from institutional investors and a robust pipeline of promising projects as key factors driving this optimism. Despite short-term market volatility, Galaxy Digital remains confident in the long-term potential of blockchain technology and its applications across various industries. The report concludes that ongoing regulatory developments and market fluctuations are unlikely to deter sustained investment and innovation in the crypto space. (The Block)
Telegram's Hamster Kombat Game Gains Massive User Base
Hamster Kombat, a game hosted on Telegram, has rapidly amassed 239 million users since its launch, showcasing its immense popularity within the messaging platform's ecosystem. The game allows users to compete against each other in virtual hamster battles, leveraging Telegram's large and engaged user base. The team behind the game is also expected to do a token airdrop soon, which will introduce the benefits of blockchain to an even wider array of people. This success underscores Telegram's strategy to integrate entertainment and social interaction, further solidifying its position as a multifaceted digital ecosystem beyond messaging. (Cointelegraph)
Basel Committee Approves Crypto Disclosure Framework
The global banking standard setter has approved a new disclosure framework for banks regarding their exposures to cryptocurrencies, marking a significant regulatory development. This framework aims to enhance transparency and risk management practices among financial institutions dealing with digital assets. It requires banks to disclose their crypto-related activities, including investments, loans, and custody services, to better inform stakeholders and regulators about potential risks. The implementing guidelines of the framework will be published by July, and will be implemented by the start of 2026. (Coindesk)
Solana Meme Coins Outperform Ethereum Tokens
Solana-based meme coins have demonstrated stronger performance compared to their Ethereum counterparts, showcasing the network's growing popularity in the meme coin market. These coins, often associated with viral internet trends and communities, have seen significant price increases and trading volumes on the Solana blockchain. This has resulted in Solana meme coins outperforming ETH by over 800% YTD. This trend highlights Solana's scalability and transaction speed advantages over Ethereum, attracting developers and users seeking lower fees and faster transactions for meme coin activities. (BeInCrypto)
