🌍 Moneygram Partners with Fireblocks to Transform Cross-Border Payments

📌 On December 4, 2025, Moneygram announced a strategic partnership with Fireblocks to enhance its global payment network using advanced stablecoin technology. This collaboration aims to revolutionize cross-border transactions by enabling real-time, multi-blockchain value transfers across Moneygram’s extensive network in over 200 countries.

We are leading the next era of money movement by enabling money to move instantly across any channel,

said Anthony Soohoo, Moneygram’s Chairman and CEO. The partnership will provide Moneygram with a programmable settlement layer that reduces capital requirements, improves liquidity access, and streamlines financial reporting.

🔒 Fireblocks will serve as the secure infrastructure for this initiative, supporting Moneygram’s ability to receive stablecoin payments at scale and introduce innovative digital payment features.

MoneyGram is rebuilding the rails of cross-border settlement in real time,

noted Michael Shaulov, Fireblocks’ Co-Founder and CEO, emphasizing the transformative potential of this collaboration.

📈 Central Bank of Argentina Considers Allowing Banks to Offer Cryptocurrency Services

📌 The Central Bank of Argentina is contemplating a significant shift in its approach to cryptocurrencies. It is drafting a proposal that would enable private banks to provide cryptocurrency trading and custody services. This move could potentially transform the national crypto landscape by making it easier for citizens to access and use cryptocurrencies like bitcoin and stablecoins.

💬 Julian Colombo, the South America manager for Bitso, emphasized the importance of this measure, stating that it

would encourage many more people to invest in crypto, by providing the ease and confidence of doing so through their bank.

This sentiment is echoed by members of the Argentine cryptocurrency industry, who believe that allowing banks to engage in crypto would greatly benefit the national crypto ecosystem.

📈 Argentina is already one of the leading countries in crypto adoption, largely due to the use of stablecoins as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation. In 2022, Banco Galicia became the first local bank to offer cryptocurrency trading services, allowing customers to trade BTC, ETH, USDC, and XRP. However, this was short-lived as the central bank swiftly imposed a ban on such services under a previous administration.

🌍 If the Central Bank of Argentina proceeds with this proposal, it could position the country as a crypto pioneer in Latin America. While countries like Bolivia and Venezuela have considered similar measures, they have yet to implement them. Experts suggest that allowing banks to offer crypto services would provide a new impetus for the crypto system as a viable alternative to traditional banking methods.

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📌 China Prioritizes Domestic AI Chips Amid U.S. Export Easing

🔍 China has officially included domestic artificial intelligence (AI) chips in its government procurement list for the first time. This strategic decision comes just days before the U.S. announced plans to relax restrictions on Nvidia exports to China. Processors from Huawei and Cambricon have been added to the approved supplier list by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).

🛡 This move underscores Beijing's commitment to enhance its semiconductor capabilities before the U.S. policy shift allows Nvidia's advanced H200 chips to reach "approved customers in China." The U.S. has previously implemented strict export controls to limit China's access to cutting-edge semiconductors and manufacturing tools, particularly in areas with military applications like advanced AI.

🚀 Critics argue that these U.S. restrictions have prompted Beijing to accelerate its efforts towards technological self-sufficiency. China views dependence on foreign technology as a national security risk and has responded by providing substantial subsidies and investments through initiatives like the National IC Industry Investment Fund. The recent inclusion of domestic AI chips in the procurement list marks a significant step in prioritizing local alternatives to U.S. products.

‼️ This decision reflects China's confidence in its local processors and its determination to reduce reliance on U.S. technology. Subsidies for data centers have further facilitated the adoption of domestic chips by major firms such as Alibaba and Tencent. However, challenges remain as some institutions struggle to adapt systems built on Nvidia hardware to Chinese alternatives.

❗️ While the MIIT has not publicly commented on the procurement list, the timing of this announcement highlights Beijing's resolve to stay competitive in the escalating AI race with the United States.

🪙 The AI Bubble's Impact on Bitcoin and Stock Markets

📉 Recent fears of a potential bubble bursting have affected various markets, including cryptocurrencies and stocks. The price movements of Bitcoin (BTC) over the past eight weeks illustrate this connection; despite significant institutional investment and favorable legislation, Bitcoin did not experience a year-end rally. Instead, it appears that AI hype may be contributing to a bearish trend in both Bitcoin and stock markets.

🔄 There are two main theories linking the AI bubble to Bitcoin's price decline. The first suggests that investors are shifting their capital from Bitcoin to popular tech stocks like Nvidia. Alex Thorn from Galaxy noted,

Bitcoin started the year as the hottest investment narrative... But AI, hyperscalers, gold, and the Magnificent 7 have absorbed capital and attention that might otherwise flow into BTC.

The second theory posits that concerns about a potential AI bubble have led investors to retreat from riskier assets like Bitcoin in favor of safer options such as gold and silver, which are currently trading at near all-time highs.

📊 As traders grew cautious about Bitcoin, they also began to lose confidence in AI stocks. For instance, despite Broadcom's impressive fourth-quarter results—which exceeded analysts' expectations with over $18 billion in revenue—its shares fell nearly 12% the following day. Bernstein analyst Stacy Rasgon remarked,

It seems that AI stock angst is continuing with Broadcom’s shares trading down.

📉 At the time of reporting, Bitcoin was trading at $90,308.12, down 2.33% over 24 hours but up 0.93% for the week. Daily trading volume had increased by 34.61% to $82.08 billion, although market capitalization fell to $1.8 trillion. Bitcoin dominance remained steady at 59.43% while total futures open interest dipped slightly.

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Get Ready for the EMCD Advent Calendar!

🎄 This December, a magical surprise is set to enhance your holiday spirit with the EMCD Advent Calendar! From December 15-28, a new piece of crypto magic will be revealed each day. Unlock daily challenges and mini-missions to explore Web3, improve your skills, and delve deeper into the EMCD ecosystem.

🔥 Expect quick and enjoyable tasks that take you into new Web3 experiences without any tedious reading. This is the perfect vibe as we count down to the New Year.

Are you ready to discover the surprise? It's already waiting for you — just click the link!

🪙 FDIC Proposes Framework for Bank Issuance of Payment Stablecoins

🔔 The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has introduced its first official proposal detailing how banks can secure approval to issue payment stablecoins. This move transitions the regulatory framework established by the GENIUS Act from legislation to practical application.

📝 Approved by the FDIC board on December 16, the proposal outlines a formal application process for FDIC-supervised banks wishing to issue payment stablecoins through subsidiaries. It implements Section 5 of the GENIUS Act, providing a regulatory roadmap for insured banks entering the stablecoin market.

⚠️ Central to the proposal is a new rule, 12 CFR § 303.252, which mandates that FDIC-supervised state nonmember banks and state savings associations must apply for approval before launching a payment stablecoin subsidiary. Once approved, these subsidiaries become permitted payment stablecoin issuers (PPSIs) and are subject to FDIC supervision for safety and soundness.

🔍 The FDIC emphasizes that approval depends on one key question:

whether the proposed stablecoin activity would be safe and sound.

Applications can only be denied on this basis, and issuance on open or public blockchains cannot be used as a reason for rejection, acknowledging the importance of crypto-native infrastructure.

💼 Applicants must prove their ability to maintain one-to-one reserves backing outstanding stablecoins, disclose reserve compositions monthly, and submit certified reports reviewed by a public accounting firm. The reserves must consist of liquid assets such as U.S. dollars or short-term Treasuries, with broad prohibitions on reuse or rehypothecation of those assets.

🛡 Governance is also scrutinized; applications must disclose ownership structures, directors, officers, and major shareholders, along with confirmations that leadership has not been convicted of financial crimes. Competence, compliance history, and managerial integrity are all considered.

🔔 EU Agrees to €90 Billion Loan for Ukraine, Excludes Russian Assets

💰 The European Union has committed to providing a €90 billion ($105 billion) loan to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia over the next two years. This decision was made during a lengthy 16-hour session and will be financed through joint borrowing by most EU member states, excluding Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic.

They committed and delivered,

said European Council President António Costa on X, highlighting the urgency of the decision due to dwindling funding from Washington after the Trump Administration shifted its focus.

🚫 However, the EU decided against leveraging frozen Russian assets, valued at over €210 billion, for this loan. Belgium strongly opposed this idea due to concerns about potential legal repercussions from the Russian government.

It would leave us vulnerable to legal actions,

a Belgian official stated, leading to their refusal to support such a deal.

🗣 Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban criticized the loan agreement, arguing that

it looks like a loan, but the Ukrainians will never be able to pay it back. It is basically losing money.

This sentiment reflects the skepticism among some EU leaders regarding the viability of repaying the loan.

❗️ Looking ahead, while the immediate risks of taking control of Russian assets have been avoided, these assets remain frozen and could still play a role in future negotiations. Experts warn that the ongoing freeze could potentially destabilize the financial system in upcoming discussions.

OpenLedger's Global Moment

1/ The project is getting major validation, moving from Korean roots to worldwide attention.

2/ The investment from gaming titan Netmarble (via MarbleX) into $OPEN is strategic. It highlights a crucial shift toward trust in verifiable, on-chain AI and data systems.

3/ With strong partnerships, a transparent public roadmap, and a 15% price surge, all engines are firing. The $0.30 level is now in sight as the logical next target if this momentum holds.

Check it out:

👉 Announcement
👉 Telegram: English | China | Korea
👉 Twitter: Global | China

💰 Michael Saylor's Strategy Boosts USD Reserve by $748 Million

🔍 Michael Saylor recently made headlines with a cryptic message on social media, followed by a significant announcement from Strategy. The company revealed a $748 million increase in its U.S. dollar reserve, bringing the total to $2.19 billion. This move was documented in a Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

💵 The additional funds were acquired through at-the-market sales of Strategy’s Class A common stock. This approach highlights the company's commitment to maintaining balance-sheet flexibility while adhering to its long-term bitcoin strategy. Despite the increase in cash reserves, Strategy's bitcoin holdings remained steady at 671,268 BTC as of December 22. This stability follows a recent purchase of 10,645 bitcoin but reflects a temporary pause in acquisitions.

🚫 The filing indicated that no bitcoin purchases occurred between December 15 and December 21, even as the firm's total purchase price surpassed $50.3 billion. Saylor's approach is clear: prioritize liquidity while maintaining conviction in long-term strategies.

📈 Bitcoin's Christmas Performance: A Cautious Stance Amidst Holiday Cheer

📉 This Christmas, Bitcoin maintained a steady position at $87,489, showing more caution than celebration. The cryptocurrency has been flirting with the lower end of its intraday range, reflecting a sense of indecision rather than a festive rally.

📊 On the daily chart, Bitcoin is digesting its recent highs after a sharp retracement from the peak of $94,652. It has found support around the $86,000–$87,000 zone, but the small candle bodies indicate a lack of conviction in the market. The trend remains technically corrective following an uptrend, with momentum muted and bulls yet to make a decisive return.

🔍 The 4-hour chart shows a period of consolidation after a test at $86,363. Bitcoin has hovered near $88,000 but with decreasing volume. A breakout above $88,800 is still elusive, suggesting that traders are waiting for a volume-driven push to validate any directional bias.

📉 Zooming into the 1-hour chart, Bitcoin's microtrend is swaying between bearish and neutral. A recent bounce from $86,363 to a local top at $87,976 has settled into a narrow range. With thin volume, short-term participants appear exhausted, leaving Bitcoin in a holding pattern. A clear move above $88,000 could indicate upside potential, while a drop below $87,000 might unravel support quickly.

📌 Oscillators are also reflecting a neutral stance. The relative strength index (RSI) is at 43, the stochastic oscillator at 34, and the commodity channel index (CCI) at -62. The average directional index (ADX) is at 23, indicating a lack of trend strength. Although there are signs of bullish divergence in the moving average convergence divergence (MACD), overall momentum remains mildly positive.

🚀 Sberbank's Groundbreaking Crypto Loan in Russia

🌟 Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, has made headlines by issuing a loan backed by cryptocurrency collateral for the first time in the country. This pilot transaction signifies a significant milestone in the institutional adoption of digital assets in Russia.

🔍 The details of the loan, including the amount and the specific cryptocurrency used, remain undisclosed. However, it was noted that the digital collateral was processed through Sberbank's own system and the Rutoken hardware solution. The recipient of the loan was Intelion, a prominent player in industrial crypto mining with over 1,500 customers and substantial data center operations.

💡 Sberbank emphasized that this type of transaction could be beneficial not only for mining companies but also for other businesses holding digital assets seeking to leverage them without liquidating. This suggests the potential for expanding the pilot program to a broader range of companies in the future.

📈 The implications of Sberbank's crypto loan are significant. It could accelerate the use of cryptocurrency as a reserve asset for companies, allowing them to use it as collateral for loans. Intelion's CEO, Tiomofey Semenov, described the deal as an

important practical case for the industry

highlighting its potential to elevate the crypto market to a new level. He noted that if the effectiveness of this arrangement is confirmed, it could be scaled up for use in the Russian mining industry.

🚫 Looking ahead, Russia is poised to further integrate crypto assets into its financial system. The Bank of Russia has recently proposed a new framework that would enable non-qualified investors to invest in crypto assets, thereby expanding their accessibility as investment tools.

🚨 Bitcoin Price Prediction Ahead of FOMC Minutes

👉 Read more

🆕 Bitwise Expands U.S. Market with 11 New Crypto ETFs on NYSE Arca

📈 Bitwise, an asset management firm, is set to list 11 single-asset cryptocurrency strategy ETFs on NYSE Arca, enhancing U.S. market access to major protocol tokens. This move follows recent regulatory filings indicating a broader shift towards diversified digital-asset products.

📝 On December 30, Bitwise submitted a post-effective amendment to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to register these ETFs, which are linked to individual protocol tokens such as AAVE, UNI, TRX, and ZEC. Each fund aims for capital appreciation through exposure to a specific digital asset rather than traditional securities.

Each fund intends to invest at least 80% of net assets plus borrowings in instruments providing exposure to its respective token,

the prospectus states,

with direct holdings generally capped at 60%.

🔍 The filing also mentions that the funds may use wholly owned Cayman Islands subsidiaries to hold digital assets while maintaining regulated investment company status. It addresses various risks including digital asset volatility, custody and cybersecurity threats, and liquidity constraints.

💡 Bitwise notes that fund performance may not exactly mirror the spot price of the underlying cryptocurrency due to fees and structural features. The shares of each fund are expected to list and primarily trade on NYSE Arca, with large block creations and redemptions managed through authorized participants.

🚀 Coinbase Ventures' Vision for Crypto Growth in 2026

🌟 As 2025 comes to a close, Coinbase Ventures has outlined its vision for the future of cryptocurrency in its end-of-year report. The firm identifies key sectors that it believes will drive crypto's growth in 2026, including real-world asset (RWA) trading, next-generation decentralized finance (DeFi), advanced market structures, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with blockchain technology.

RWA perpetuals offer faster and more flexible exposure by using synthetic markets that don’t require custody of underlying assets,

Coinbase Ventures explains. This approach could open up on-chain markets linked to various assets, appealing to traders seeking sophisticated hedging methods.

🔄 The report also highlights rapid innovations in exchange design. Specialized exchanges and trading terminals are emerging to fill gaps in current on-chain markets. For instance, prop-style automated market makers (AMMs) are being developed to better protect liquidity providers.

📈 In the realm of DeFi, there is a shift towards capital efficiency and maturity. Perpetual futures are becoming essential components, integrated with lending protocols to allow traders to earn yield while maintaining leverage. Unsecured, credit-based lending presents another significant opportunity. Coinbase Ventures notes the potential to bring parts of the trillion-dollar unsecured credit market on-chain using new reputation and risk models.

Privacy-preserving infrastructure is seen as essential for both institutional participation and everyday users,

the report states.

🤖 Beyond finance, Coinbase Ventures emphasizes the importance of AI and robotics. The firm points to decentralized methods for collecting high-quality robotics training data, systems to distinguish humans from AI agents, and AI-driven tools that could simplify the process of building and securing smart contracts.

🌐 Overall, Coinbase Ventures envisions 2026 as a year of maturation for crypto infrastructure. The sector is expected to move beyond experimentation towards becoming more specialized and integrated with global markets and emerging technologies.

💥 Bitcoin's Volatile Correction: A 'Dead Cat Bounce' or Resilience?

📉 On January 6, Bitcoin experienced a sharp correction after briefly surpassing $94,000. The cryptocurrency quickly fell to $91,500, erasing over 2% of its value and triggering $96.5 million in long liquidations. This decline also impacted the broader crypto market, which saw its total market cap drop by $70 billion.

After peaking at approximately $94,800 on Monday, bitcoin shed more than 2% of its value.

🔍 Analysts expressed skepticism about the recent rally, suggesting it may have been a "dead cat bounce" rather than a genuine breakout. The total crypto market capitalization fell from an intraday peak of $3.3 trillion to $3.23 trillion by early afternoon.

💔 The situation was particularly challenging for leveraged traders, with a Coinglass report indicating that the sudden price drop led to the forced liquidation of $96.5 million in long positions. This wave of liquidations likely contributed to the further decline in Bitcoin's price.

📈 However, some experts argue against the "dead cat bounce" narrative. They point to the significant inflow of over $1.1 billion into spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the first two business days of 2026 as evidence of institutional support rather than short-term speculation.

The Spent Output Profit Ratio is sitting right around 1.0, which tells us coins are changing hands at roughly break-even. Nobody’s panic selling at a loss

📌 Analysts suggest that breaking the $95,000 level could set the stage for a run towards $100,000. They emphasize the importance of looking beyond short-term price fluctuations to assess the overall health of the crypto system.

What matters more is whether the system itself is holding up: liquidity is available when it’s needed, settlements continue without friction, and capital can move efficiently even when sentiment is weak

💬 As of 4 p.m. Eastern time on January 6, Bitcoin's price stood at $92,475 following the dip. While the recent correction has raised concerns, institutional demand and accumulation metrics suggest a potential for recovery and growth in the near future.

🌍 Tether and UNODC Join Forces to Combat Cryptocurrency Crime in Africa

📈 On January 9, Tether announced a strategic partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to address illicit cryptocurrency activities and enhance digital resilience in Africa. This collaboration comes as Africa experiences rapid growth in digital assets but also faces increasing risks from scams and organized crime.

📈 Africa is now the third-fastest-growing crypto region, yet it suffers from weak regulatory frameworks and limited cybersecurity. An Interpol operation revealed $260 million in illicit crypto and fiat transactions across the continent, underscoring the need for stronger protections.

🌐 The partnership aligns with UNODC’s Strategic Vision for Africa 2030, which seeks to promote peace and inclusive growth. By utilizing blockchain and emerging technologies, the initiative aims to reduce cybercrime vulnerabilities, expand financial opportunities, and support human trafficking victims.

⚠️ Key components of the collaboration include the Senegal Project, which offers cybersecurity education for youth through bootcamps and mentorship, and the Africa Project, which funds civil society organizations in several African countries to assist human trafficking victims. Additionally, the Papua New Guinea Project raises awareness about financial inclusion and fraud prevention through university partnerships and student competitions.

💬 Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino emphasized the importance of coordinated action in tackling human trafficking:

Tackling human trafficking and preventing exploitation requires coordinated action across sectors.

He noted that the partnership combines innovation and education to empower communities.