Business

April, 2025

• 2 April

  South Korean Police Launch Global Manhunt for OTC USDT Theft Suspects

  

  South Korean authorities have launched an international manhunt for suspects involved in an over-the-counter (OTC) USDT theft operation. Law enforcement agencies are working with international partners to track down individuals accused of orchestrating a large-scale fraud involving Tether (USDT), one of the most widely used stablecoins in the crypto market. According to investigators, the suspects allegedly lured victims into OTC …
• 2 April

  Sony Singapore Embraces Crypto: USDC Payments Now Live via Crypto.com

  

  Sony Singapore has taken a major step into the world of digital payments by integrating USD Coin (USDC) transactions through Crypto.com. This move allows customers to use the popular stablecoin for purchases, reflecting the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in mainstream commerce. The partnership with Crypto.com enables seamless, secure, and fast transactions using USDC, a stablecoin pegged to the U.S. dollar. …
• 2 April

  Kristin Smith Departs Blockchain Association to Lead Solana-Backed Policy Initiative

  

  Kristin Smith, the longtime CEO of the Blockchain Association, is stepping down from her role to join a new policy group backed by Solana, marking a significant shift in the crypto advocacy landscape. Her departure comes after years of leading one of the most influential blockchain lobbying organizations in Washington, where she played a key role in shaping regulatory discussions …
• 2 April

  Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Pushes for Onchain Interest-Bearing Stablecoin Regulations

  

  Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong is calling for clear regulatory guidelines on interest-bearing stablecoins, arguing that an onchain framework could unlock new opportunities for financial innovation while ensuring consumer protection. His advocacy comes amid increasing demand for stablecoins that generate yield, a feature that could transform the way digital assets are used in mainstream finance. Stablecoins, which are typically pegged to …
• 1 April

  Pakistan Shifts Stance on Crypto, Aims to Play Key Role in Global Web3 System: Crypto Council CEO

  

  In a significant development, the CEO of the Crypto Council has revealed that Pakistan is shifting its stance on cryptocurrency and is now looking to position itself as a key player in the global Web3 ecosystem. The move marks a major change in the country’s approach to digital assets, as it seeks to tap into the growing potential of blockchain …
• 1 April

  OKX Appoints Ex-NYDFS Head as Chief Legal Officer, Strengthening Legal Team

  

  OKX, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges, has made a significant move by appointing the former head of the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), Linda Lacewell, as its new Chief Legal Officer (CLO). This strategic appointment underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening its legal and regulatory framework amidst the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. Who is Linda Lacewell? …
• 1 April

  Russia’s Irkutsk to Potentially Enforce Year-Round Crypto Mining Ban Starting April 1

  

  In a significant move that could affect the crypto mining community, Russia’s Irkutsk region is set to potentially enforce a year-round ban on cryptocurrency mining, starting from April 1. This development comes amidst growing concerns over energy consumption in the region, where mining activities have surged in recent years. Irkutsk, known for its relatively cheap electricity rates, has become a …
• 1 April

  Circle Gears Up for IPO with New Bank Hires, Eyes Late April Filing: Report

  

  Circle, the issuer behind the USDC stablecoin, is preparing to go public with an Initial Public Offering (IPO) later this year. According to recent reports, the company has made significant strides in its IPO plans, including hiring top investment bankers to help lead the process. Circle’s IPO ambitions come at a time when the cryptocurrency industry is undergoing significant regulatory …
• 1 April

  South Korean Crypto Traders Fall Victim to Money Laundering Scams

  

  South Korean crypto traders are facing a growing problem, with several individuals becoming victims of sophisticated money laundering schemes. These scams, which often appear to be legitimate investment opportunities, are increasingly targeting the country’s thriving cryptocurrency market. As the popularity of digital currencies continues to rise, fraudsters have found new ways to exploit unsuspecting traders, luring them into illegal activities. …
• 1 April

  Aussie Watchdog Cracks Down on Crypto ATM Providers, Issues Warning Over Missing AML Checks

  

  Australia’s financial watchdog has taken a stern stance against cryptocurrency ATM operators in the country, warning that many providers are failing to meet Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance requirements. The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) has placed crypto ATM providers “on notice,” urging them to implement adequate checks to prevent illicit activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing. …