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    Welfare state at risk unless Europe halts decline in growth, says Lagarde

    $1 for 4 weeksThen $75 per month. Complete digital access to quality FT journalism. Cancel anytime during your trial.What’s included Global news & analysisExpert opinionFT App on Android & iOSFT Edit appFirstFT: the day’s biggest stories20+ curated newslettersFollow topics & set alerts with myFTFT Videos & Podcasts20 monthly gift articles to shareLex: FT’s flagship investment column15+ Premium newsletters by leading expertsFT Digital Edition: our digitised print edition More

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    Next-Gen Gamified Launchpad LaunchPunks Goes Live with Ghosty Cash

    LaunchPunks has officially launched, introducing a gamified and community-centric approach to the crypto launchpad landscape. Built on Bitcoin via the TAP Protocol, the platform emphasizes fairness, transparency, and scalability while challenging traditional launchpad models.Ghosty Cash “Spooky” – Supernatural UtilityLeading the charge with them is Ghosty Cash. Ghosty Cash represents an innovative approach to anonymous, cross-chain swaps, designed to challenge conventional DeFi models and enhance user autonomy.With over $50 million volume swapped and 200% monthly Total (EPA:TTEF) Value Swapped (TVS) growth, Ghosty Cash and its utility token Spooky ($SPKY) are establishing a presence in the expanding Bitcoin DeFi ecosystem.$SPKY Token Utility Highlights:A New Era for Launchpads: Fair, Fun, and Built for the CommunityLaunchPunks breaks away from fixed tiers, hidden tokenomics and passive participation and takes a fresh, community-focused approach:With Ghosty Cash, LaunchPunks aims to bring a revolutionary approach to token launches sure to spook the competition.For more information, users can visit launchpunks.com.About LaunchPunksLaunchPunks is a first-of-its-kind, gamified, social launchpad experience on a mission to rewrite the code of crypto launches. Powered on Bitcoin by TAP Protocol, LaunchPunks delivers a transparent, scalable, and fun experience that puts the community first. LaunchPunks rejects outdated norms, embraces transparency, and seeks to disrupt.ContactLaunchPunksinfo@launchpunks.comThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Bybit Card Joins Black Friday with 20 USDT Sign-Up Bonus and Up to 15% Cashback

    Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, are pleased to announce this year’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday are coming early for Bybit Card holders with extra benefits. From now until Dec. 2, Bybit Card users—both new and existing—can unlock rewards on their annual shopping spree.Exclusive Sign-Up OfferFor those who have yet to discover the Bybit Card experience, can now join the club for seamless crypto off-ramp that pays off at every swipe: New Bybit Users Can:1. Register for the event.2. Apply for the Bybit Card and make a first deposit of at least 100 USDT.3. Spend at least $100 with the Bybit Card to receive a 20 USDT airdrop.Existing Bybit Users Can:1. Register for the event.2. Apply for the Bybit Card.3. Spend at least $100 with the Bybit Card to receive a 5 USDT airdrop.Event Period: Nov 15, 2024, 12PM UTC – Dec 2, 2024, 11:59PM UTCBlack Friday Weekend BonusBybit Card holders can earn an additional 5% cashback on eligible purchases made during the Black Friday weekend. Depending on their cardholder tier, users may receive up to 15% cashback in total during the promotional period.Event Period: Nov 29, 2024, 12AM UTC – Dec 2, 2024, 11:59PM UTCThe Bybit Card aligns with Bybit’s mission to expand access to crypto payments and enhance the utility of digital assets. By simplifying the process of holding and spending cryptocurrency, the card provides users with a practical tool for engaging with the digital economy.Users can find out more about Bybit’s answer to everyday crypto spending on eligibility: Bybit Card.#Bybit / #TheCryptoArkAbout BybitBybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving over 50 million users. Established in 2018, Bybit provides a professional platform where crypto investors and traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, 24/7 customer service, and multilingual community support. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One’s reigning Constructors’ and Drivers’ champions: the Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) Red Bull Racing team.For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit PressFor media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.comFor more information, please visit: https://www.bybit.comFor updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social MediaContactHead of PRTony AuBybittony.au@bybit.comThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Bitcoin price today: flat around $90k as post-election rally slows

    The cryptocurrency’s pullback came as enthusiasm surrounding Donald Trump’s presidency began to cool, and broader market sentiment was dampened by growing uncertainty over the US interest rate policy path.Bitcoin surged by approximately 11% last week, during which it notched an all-time high of nearly $93,500. The rally was fueled by optimism sparked by pro-crypto Donald Trump’s win in the US presidential election.Bitcoin fell 1.5% to $89,663.0 on Monday as of 08:30 ET (13:30 GMT). After clearing the $90,000 hurdle recently, markets are now watching for the cryptocurrency to attack the $100,000 next, which is seen as a key level.Analysts at Bernstein have identified several catalysts that could drive Bitcoin’s price to their cycle target of $200,000 by 2025.“We are entering a stage, where we expect intrigue will turn to pain for the bitcoin bears,” said analysts led by Gautam Chuggani in a Monday note to clients.Bernstein set their current target in June when Bitcoin traded at around $66,000, noting that Bitcoin’s surge toward $100,000 “seems around the corner and our $200K bitcoin target [by the end of] 2025 now looks not as delusional.”Following Trump’s presidential election victory, his administration has made significant pro-crypto moves. Notable appointments include bitcoin advocates Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Health and Secretary of Defense.Yet, the most critical appointments for crypto—a new SEC Chair to replace Gary Gensler and a Treasury Secretary—are still forthcoming, the analysts pointed out.Another major driver could be progress toward creating a US bitcoin reserve, a key campaign promise from Trump.Bernstein highlighted that Senator Cynthia Lummis has already introduced the BITCOIN Act, proposing the US acquire up to 5% of Bitcoin’s total supply over five years, equivalent to nearly $100 billion at current prices.While the plan holds strong political momentum, implementing such a reserve could require significant legislative efforts.“Demand for bitcoin this cycle is led by institutions, corporates and retail,” analysts said, but added that the next phase will likely be “sovereign led,” as political support grows for crypto-friendly policies and resistance to CBDCs.“The political winds of change are favoring candidates that prefer crypto deregulation and are against potential surveillance from a CBDC,” they noted.Akin to Bitcoin, broader crypto markets also saw sluggish performance on Monday, mirroring the recent slowdown.World no.2 crypto Ether slipped 0.7% to $3,081.15.Meanwhile, Solana and XRP rose 3.7% and 1.1% respectively, while Cardano traded flat. MATIC/USD also added around 1% on the day.Among meme coins, DOGE/USD edged 0.1% lower, and Shiba Inu fell 0.5%. DOGE saw strong gains last week after Trump announced the formation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which will be led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. More

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    Ai16z and Ryze Labs Partner to Launch AICombinator Program, Announce $5M Fund to Support Developers

    Project founders will receive early access to use newly launched features on ai16z’s Eliza frameworkRyze Labs and ai16z, the first venture capital firm run by autonomous AI agents investing in AI-driven innovation, today announced the launch of an AICombinator program and $5M USD fund aimed at supporting the growth of the ai16z ecosystem. As investors in best-in-class web3 projects, Ryze Labs, together with ai16z, are finding and funding the next generation of developers building at the intersection of AI and crypto.In addition to access to a $5M funding pool, project founders who enter the ai16z and Ryze Labs AICombinator program will receive early access to use newly launched features in the ai16z’s Eliza framework roadmap. Eliza framework is a flexible AI tool for creating unique, interactive characters that can connect to Discord and Twitter, and is widely utilized for developing crypto AI agents. About Ryze Labs Ryze Labs invests in the builders of blockchain technology around the globe that are designing Web3 applications designed to accelerate adoption and democratize access to the next generation of the internet. Ryze Labs has always supported projects founded by hard-working visionaries, that work with cutting-edge technologies, located in the next Silicon Valley. Ryze Labs leverages emerging markets expertise as strategic investors for best-in-class web3 projects looking to expand their international presence into emerging markets with high-growth potential. Ryze has invested in some of the most successful web3 projects to date, including Solana, LayerZero, Polygon, and Wintermute.About ai16zAi16z is the first venture capital firm led by AI agents. Their team of AI leaders are aiming to shape the future of AI. They connect AI entrepreneurs, investors, and experts, fostering growth in a rapidly evolving ecosystem. The singularity is approaching, and we are here to guide it forward. Users can learn more at ai16z.aiContactM Group on Behalf of Ryze Labsmedia@ryzelabs.ioThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Web3 Gaming Trailblazer Big Time Studios Announces $OL Token for the OpenLoot Gaming Platform

    Big Time Studios, a Web3 gaming trailblazer and creator of the Open Loot platform and hit game Big Time, which has already processed a half billion dollars in total transaction volume, is making waves again. Active users of the Open Loot platform will soon be able to collect $OL, the marketplace’s first utility token, which will become the cornerstone of the Open Loot.$OL Token$OL token is not a fundraising mechanism. This launch is fair: there are no token sales, team-allocated tokens, or tokens sold to early investors. Open Loot users can collect $OL=ugh various activities within the platform. Players actively engage in unique game opportunities with partners, completing challenges and participating in unique events. For loyal players, the $OL tokens will provide users with early access to games, opportunities to purchase unique NFTs, and discounts on special premium currency packs and NFT primary sales.For game developers, $OL is a powerful tool for user acquisition. Developers can leverage the token to reward players for in-game activity, such as reaching milestones or dropping tokens in-game, which will drive engagement. Limited-timed events can attract users to Open Loot partner games and create exposure for the game and the ecosystem. $OL fosters more profound connections between developers and their audiences, giving developers the power to offer players significant value through competitive, social, and metagame features and targeted promotional offers that enhance player engagement.The potential uses for $OL are vast and will define engagement and innovation across the platform. $OL will foster trust in the Open Loot platform and marketplace, extend reach beyond traditional off-chain models, and lead the way for the Web3 gaming industry, opening up a world of opportunities for players and studios. Open Loot PlatformBig Time Studios’ Open Loot gaming platform and marketplace has facilitated nearly half a billion dollars in transactions since early 2024. This achievement stems from Open Loot’s ability to simplify complex cryptocurrency functions, scalability, distribution, payments, and regulatory compliance for developers. The marketplace boosts NFT discoverability and sales while providing various payment options.Players enjoy high-quality games without typical Web3 issues like connecting a crypto wallet, paying gas fees, or waiting for transactions. Patented Vault technology allows easy NFT buying and selling without high gas fees, with the option to mint them onto the blockchain. The platform includes features like NFT rentals, a marketplace for non-crypto game currencies, and detailed NFT price histories, making Web3 gaming accessible. Game studios benefit from ready-to-use tech solutions, including game launchers and premium currencies. Open Loot also provides expert support in marketing, game economy design, and production, ensuring developers can meet player expectations and achieve success.Open Loot platform manages all foundational elements, overseeing the sales and leasing of digital and traditional items for Big Time, the wildly successful free-to-play multiplayer action RPG, and five pioneering launch partners, each curating distinct Web3 gaming experiences. World Shards, an expansive sandbox MMORPG; Boss Fighters, an engaging multiplayer action title; The Desolation, an immersive cross-platform loot shooter; ShatterPoint, an adrenaline-fueled F2P action mobile RPG; and One Tap, a strategic first-person shooter. Positioned to redefine the gaming sector, Open Loot will focus on high-caliber mid-core to hardcore games.First Half of 2024 SuccessSince the start of 2024, the Open Loot platform has experienced growth driven by its vibrant community and excellent partners. So far, Underscoring Open Loot’s successful quarter was the exchange of over 1,067,103 NFTs and 1,551,969 NFT rentals. This year, more than 226,588 players have crafted more than 3,625,725 NTFs showcasing the platform’s dynamic and engaging ecosystem.Since it opened, Open Loot has amassed over $445,167,044 in total transaction volume, with millions of transactions signaling the platform’s escalating popularity and triumph.Users can visit https://openloot.com/ for more details.About Big Time StudiosBig Time Studios, founded by Ari Meilich, is a pioneering force in the crypto gaming industry, renowned for its innovative Open Loot platform and the hit game Big Time. With a mission to revolutionize the NFT gaming experience, Big Time Studios seamlessly integrates high-quality games with blockchain technology, offering players unparalleled gaming experiences. The curated Open Loot platform gives developers the opportunity to reach a wider audience and drive engagement through unique in-game rewards and events, while players benefit from exclusive access to high-quality games, special NFT sales, in-game perks and airdrops. Big Time Studios’ Open Loot platform has facilitated nearly half a billion dollars in total transaction volume, underscoring its commitment to creating a dynamic and engaging ecosystem for gamers worldwide. For more information, visit Big Time Studios’ website.ContactCMOMichael MiglieroBig Time Studios LTDpress@bigtime.ggThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Trump tariffs would hurt US defence sector, warns Beijing adviser

    $1 for 4 weeksThen $75 per month. Complete digital access to quality FT journalism. Cancel anytime during your trial.What’s included Global news & analysisExpert opinionFT App on Android & iOSFT Edit appFirstFT: the day’s biggest stories20+ curated newslettersFollow topics & set alerts with myFTFT Videos & Podcasts20 monthly gift articles to shareLex: FT’s flagship investment column15+ Premium newsletters by leading expertsFT Digital Edition: our digitised print edition More

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    Satoshi Nakamoto Published Oldest Known BTC Code on This Date 16 Years Ago: Details

    Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin’s pseudonymous creator, had already outlined the cryptocurrency’s groundbreaking concept in its whitepaper a month earlier. However, this release of the original Bitcoin code marked the beginning of its evolution from a mere idea to a functional reality.Back then, Bitcoin was worth nothing. There was no market, no miners and certainly no value attached to the lines of code Nakamoto shared. Fast forward to today, and Bitcoin’s value has skyrocketed, surpassing the $90,000 mark.Satoshi’s vision was to create a decentralized digital currency that could operate without the need for a central authority. This vision was detailed in the Bitcoin white paper, published on Oct. 31, 2008.Bitcoin was launched on Jan. 9, 2009, with Satoshi Nakamoto mining the first genesis block.Fast forward to today, and Bitcoin has reached thousands of dollars, setting all-time highs of $93,495 on Nov. 13.At the time of writing, BTC was up 0.62% in the last 24 hours to $91,785. Bitcoin recovered from its largest two-day drop since Nov. 5, declining in Saturday and Sunday trading session before rising to intraday highs of $92,234 early Monday morning.Investors are lowering their expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate reduction in an otherwise strong U.S. economy, which might pose a challenge for cryptocurrencies because liquidity conditions might influence speculative demand for digital assets.This article was originally published on U.Today More