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    Arch Raises $7M Led By Multicoin Capital To Build The First Bitcoin-Native Application Platform

    The combination of the Taproot upgrade in November 2021, which introduced smart contract-like functionality to the Bitcoin blockchain through Schnorr signatures, Merkelized Abstract Syntax Trees (MAST) and Tapscript, and the advent of Ordinals in January 2023, which pioneered inscriptions of arbitrary data directly into Bitcoin transactions, paved the way for turing-complete applications on Bitcoin. Since then, the prospect of programmability on Bitcoin has spurred renewed interest in the world’s most secure blockchain, creating a surge of development activity including now over 50 Bitcoin “Layer 2 Networks.” While designed to leverage Bitcoin, these networks require takers to bridge assets to nascent networks, weakening the user experience and going against the core ethos of Bitcoin users in order to engage in DeFi on Bitcoin. Standing in contrast to them, Arch is the first bitcoin-native application platform; it brings bridgeless trading directly to the Bitcoin blockchain and does not require takers to bridge.“Ordinals marked a foundational shift in Bitcoin’s evolution. It signaled the beginning of a new era where Bitcoin could serve as more than just a payment ledger; it could leverage its strength and security to also be the canonical base layer for complex protocols. This moment paved the way for Arch. We’re building on Bitcoin’s unmatched security and liquidity to unlock an entirely new application ecosystem on the world’s more secure and liquid blockchain,” said Matt Mudano, the co-founder of Arch.“The Arch Network is a parallelized, proof-of-stake network that uses zk-proofs to enhance Bticoin-native programmability. The network consists of a Rust-based zkVM, called the ArchVM, and a decentralized verifier network. Together, these components form a trustless execution environment directly within the Bitcoin blockchain that allows for bridgeless trading experiences. Arch not only preserves the security and liquidity of Bitcoin but also significantly enhances its capabilities, enabling rapid, secure, and fully-verifiable applications on Bitcoin for the first time.“We’ve evaluated several Bitcoin Layer 2’s and all of them make the same set of trade offs that sacrifice security in exchange for speed. Arch is explicitly not a Layer 2 in the sense that takers do not have to bridge assets to some untrusted chain to use it. Bitcoin developers are excited to build on Bitcoin because it’s the most secure blockchain in the world. If they wanted speed, they would build on another network like Solana. Arch gives principled, Bitcoin-aligned users and developers the only way to build Bitcoin-native experiences without takers having to sacrifice custody of assets to a less secure, less decentralized Layer 2,” said Vishal Kankani, Investment Principal, Multicoin Capital. “Once the market appreciates this, we expect the vast majority of Bitcoin development activity to rapidly shift to Arch. Arch transforms Bitcoin from a store of value to a robust platform where a wide array of dApps—from finance to gaming and beyond—can thrive.”Several projects within the Bitcoin ecosystem have already started migrating to Arch. Liquidium, the premier borrowing and lending marketplace on Bitcoin, recently started incorporating liquidity pools leveraging Arch to support both instant-liquidity loans and fungible-token pools, something that Bitcoin, even Discrete Log Contracts (DLCs), are incapable of natively supporting. Currently, there are more than 20 stealth stage projects, across stablecoins, decentralized exchanges, borrow/lend markets and more, building on Arch’s devnet. As excitement around Bitcoin grows, the Arch Foundation plans to support the ecosystem through upcoming hackathon and grant programs.To start building bridgeless applications on Bitcoin, or to learn more about Arch, please visit https://www.arch.network. ### About Arch Arch is the first Bitcoin-native application platform—unlocking bridgeless DeFi on the world’s largest blockchain. The Arch Network is a parallelized, proof-of-stake network that uses zk-proofs to enhance Bticoin-native programmability. The network consists of a Rust-based zkVM, called the ArchVM, and a decentralized verifier network. Together, these components form a trustless execution environment directly within the Bitcoin blockchain that allows for bridgeless trading experiences. To learn more about Arch, please visit https://www.arch.networkAbout Arch Labs Arch Labs is a software development company focused on building innovative products and solutions that leverage the Arch Network, Bitcoin’s first native application platform. Arch Labs is a core contributor to Arch Network and works closely with the Arch Foundation to advance crypto innovation on the Bitcoin blockchain. To learn more about Arch Labs, please visit https://www.archnetwork.xyz/.About Multicoin CapitalMulticoin Capital is a thesis-driven investment firm that invests in cryptocurrencies, tokens, and blockchain companies. Crypto networks and companies will create trillions of dollars of value over the next decade. But investing in tokens is fundamentally different than investing in companies. New tools, heuristics, and security measures are needed to responsibly invest in this ecosystem. We leverage our deep understanding of blockchain technology and crypto markets to deliver exceptional returns. For more information, visit: https://multicoin.capital.ContactCEOMatt MudanoArch NetworkMatt@arch.networkThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Bitcoin (BTC) Price to Dip Below $55,000, Warns Top Analyst

    Van de Poppe tweeted that Bitcoin was currently in the range’s low, noting that this was technically the area prefered, allowing for the continuation of upward momentum and the maintenance of the range. He added that if this level failed to hold, there could be an expectation for a potential low of $52-55K during this correction, signaling a possible bearish trend on the horizon.The crypto market, renowned for its volatility, has been grappling with heightened uncertainty in recent weeks. Bitcoin, often regarded as a bellwether for the wider sector, has faced challenges in sustaining its upward trajectory amid regulatory uncertainties and macroeconomic factors. Concerns surrounding inflation and potential interest rate hikes on traditional financial markets have added to the apprehension among investors, influencing sentiment across the space.Given the prevailing market dynamics, analysts are meticulously monitoring Bitcoin’s price movements for any indications of a potential trend reversal. Van de Poppe’s warning regarding a potential dip below $55,000 is a stark reminder of the delicate nature of current market sentiment and shows the importance of implementing robust risk management strategies for traders.This article was originally published on U.Today More

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    ‘Rich Dad Poor Dad’ Author Kiyosaki Shares Key Bitcoin Revelation Amid Crucial Warning

    Kiyosaki’s latest post underscores his belief that being prepared for adverse financial conditions is paramount. Urging his audience to move away from the metaphorical “Disneyland” of financial ignorance, Kiyosaki advocates for proactive measures to secure wealth, notably through astute investments in tangible assets like gold, silver and the increasingly prominent cryptocurrency, BTC.For Kiyosaki, the looming prospect of depression serves as a catalyst for proactive wealth-building, urging individuals to seize the moment and prepare diligently for the road ahead.This is not the first time Kiyosaki has sounded the alarm bells about economic instability. He posits that amid fear, doubt and uncertainty, Bitcoin stands out as a beacon of potential wealth accumulation, citing its resilience in the face of inflationary pressures and currency devaluation.Of particular interest is Kiyosaki’s bullish stance on Bitcoin’s price future trajectory. Forecasts of its value skyrocketing to staggering heights, including predictions of it reaching $120,000 by year’s end and a jaw-dropping half-million mark in the following year, have garnered attention and sparked discussions in financial circles.This article was originally published on U.Today More

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    Yoton Yo Studios appoints award-winning Paul Jenkins to role of Creative Director in Residence for the upcoming Exfinitum Omniverse phygital TCG

    Following April’s announcement that Yoton Yo Studios had secured a sizeable series A investment, and continues to attract world-leading blockchain grant funding, the independent studio released further details concerning its all-new genre defining phygital TCG game, Exfinitum Omniverse.Helmed by Peter J Wacks, creator of Cyberpunk CCG and an award-winning and highly acclaimed author of graphic novels, comics and major franchises; Exfinitum Omniverse was always going to be steeped in rich storytelling and narrative at its core.To supplement the talented Wacks and his writing team, the studio have significantly boosted their credentials and creative capacity with the appointment of Paul Jenkins and his Meta (NASDAQ:META) Studios outfit to the role of Creative Director in Residence.Jenkins is a serial award-winning creative with extensive accomplishments. These straddle writing for, and building franchises in the film, graphic novel and video game industries. During this time, he has won an Eisner, been nominated for BAFTAs, hit #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list, and worked with hundreds of world-renowned entertainment icons, from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Spider-Man, Batman, and The Origin of Wolverine to six platinum-selling video games.He is credited with playing a key role in the revitalisation of the Marvel Universe. His creations have been seen in multiple Marvel movies and video games,including Into The SpiderVerse, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, and the upcoming Thunderbolts movie, which sees the screen debut of The Sentry.Peter J Wacks commented “I’ve long held the belief that talent begets talent and never more so than when you put highest grade creatives in the same sandbox. I’m ecstatic that Paul and his team have come to join us. What they bring is not just exceptional creative talent and output, but ready-baked IP that fits Exfintium’s purpose and story arc. This is going to be a fun ride!”Paul Jenkins stated “I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy success across books, comics, films and video games for three decades. It’s a genuine pleasure to have another opportunity in gaming and to help Peter and his team shape story and more. We both share very similar outlooks on the creative industries as a whole, and the immense opportunities and challenges they currently face.Jenkins continued, “My team at Meta didn’t hesitate to commit to YYS for the long-haul when we understood the game-changing nature of Exfinitum Omniverse, and what it represents as a phygital TCG with multiverse, cross-storytelling at its core. Weaving some magic between the merging worlds of web2 & web3 offers myriad new opportunities to develop story and content. Combined with the generative approach to technology that Peter and his engineers are developing for the game system, and contributing tech, our combined visions and expertise certainly promise a significant shift in the TCG genre”Meta Studios will be unveiling a raft of new IP via Exfinitum Omniverse including Fablewood, Sidekick, and Switchlings, as well as a soon to be announced Exfinitum Omniverse origin story titled Quantumverse.About Yoton Yo StudiosYYS is a games and technology company building new and groundbreaking software solutions to generate vastly improved experiences in gaming, asset pedigree and data usage.About Exfinitum OmniverseState-of-the-art innovation sits at the core of taking the traditional trading card game into a new realm that morphs multiverses in physical and digital play, enabling the same cards to be playable in multiple games. Discord https://discord.gg/exfinitumTwitter / X https://x.com/exfinitumExfinitum Omniverse https://www.theomniverse.info/Exfinitum https://exfinitum.com/Yoton Yo Studios https://www.yotonyostudios.com/ContactDirectorGary Burns1UP PR Ltd.garyb@1uppr.netThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    SimpleSwap Exchange Marks Six Years of Evolution in the Cryptocurrency Sector

    Since its creation in 2018, SimpleSwap has been committed to providing its customers with straightforward, swift, and secure cryptocurrency exchange services. Celebrating its six-year anniversary in the market, this platform takes pride in its achievements and the changes it has undergone during this time.Buying Cryptocurrency with FiatAt SimpleSwap, users have the option to buy and sell cryptocurrencies using fiat. Platform offers 30+ crypto that can be bought with a debit or credit card. After completing a transaction customers will receive their cryptocurrency directly on their wallets.Loyalty ProgramLoyalty Program is one of the most demanded features of SimpleSwap. The platform enables its customers to take full advantage of the benefits offered by their completed swaps. That’s why participants get BTC cashback for every finished transaction. In order to take part in Loyalty Program, customers can create an account and they’ll become participants automatically. Invite SystemSimpleSwap’s Invite System incentivizes users to invite friends and acquaintances to join the platform. By doing so, users can let their friends get a 50$ reward. The only rule here is that the referral has to finish one swap on the exchange. This initiative not only encourages user expansion but also creates a sense of community among participants.AnalyticsSimpleSwap also features an Analytical Section designed to provide users with valuable insights and data to make cryptocurrency trading decisions. This section offers a range of tools and resources to help users analyze market trends, track price movements, create portfolios and so on.Market EvolutionThe crypto market has experienced notable transformations since SimpleSwap’s inception. From the rise of new blockchain technologies to the emergence of decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), the market has evolved, presenting both opportunities and challenges for users and service providers alike. SimpleSwap has adapted to these changes, innovating its services.ContactSimpleSwap teammarketing@simpleswap.ioThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Banxa Adds Tokenized Real Estate Platform Blocksquare’s BST Token to Fiat Checkout

    Blocksquare, a tokenization infrastructure provider for real estate, is delighted to announce that its native token BST has been added to the fiat checkout system of global crypto on- and off-ramp Banxa. The integration will enhance the accessibility of BST, enabling users from around the world to purchase it using a wide array of local and international payment options, including Visa (NYSE:V), Mastercard (NYSE:MA), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) Pay, and Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Wallet.Renowned for its robust payment infrastructure that processes billions of dollars in transactions, Banxa’s commitment to widening financial accessibility aligns with Blocksquare’s goal of democratizing access to real estate investment. The feature is also expected to be directly integrated into Blocksquare’s marketplace solutions in the future, further simplifying the process for users to engage with real estate tokenization. Blocksquare is designed to power hundreds of marketplaces across the globe, representing a white-label solution clients can use to create, list, issue, sell, distribute, manage, track and trade properties tokenized on its protocol. A global leader in crypto payment solutions, Banxa is trusted by many leading web3 projects and exchanges such as Binance, OKX, KuCoin, and Huobi. It recently made headlines as the first company to join the UK Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) crypto register in 2024, a milestone which will see it expand its services to UK clients securely and in compliance with local regulations.Blocksquare continues to lead innovations in the Real World Asset (RWA) tokenization sector, which remains predominantly illiquid and confined to private markets. The platform’s revolutionary approach not only facilitates fractional property ownership but also enhances liquidity, making it possible for everyday investors to participate in real estate markets that were traditionally out of reach. To date, its operating system has onboarded over $95 million worth of real estate assets in 21 countries.Last year, Blocksquare achieved a landmark milestone by executing the first-ever notarization of a tokenized real estate asset and registering it into the national land registry of Slovenia. The achievement underscores the practical, real-world application and legal recognition of blockchain-based real estate transactions.About BlocksquareBlocksquare is an award-winning company developing the world’s leading blockchain-based real estate tokenization system. Headquartered in Ljubljana, Slovenia (EU), Blocksquare has developed a state-of-the-art system in close co-operation with Medius – the leading provider of enterprise software solutions in the CEE region.Blocksquare’s vision is to power 100s of platforms across the globe, connecting investors to real estate opportunities in their region. With its real estate tokenization protocol, anyone can start digitizing real estate assets at a fraction of the cost, while its white-label platform provides the quickest way to launch an online marketplace. Blocksquare expanded its operations into the realm of decentralized finance (DeFi) with Oceanpoint – a layer on top of their established tokenization infrastructure to create borderless access to real estate financing for anyone with an internet connection.About BANXABanxa’s mission is to accelerate the world to Web3 with its leading global on-and-off ramp solutions. Through its extensive network of local payment solutions paired with the required crypto licenses, Banxa gives its partners and projects access to global audiences with less friction and higher conversions. Banxa has a global team of Web3 natives – with operating headquarters in the USA, Europe and APAC regions.ContactCMOJulia Buchholzmarketing@blocksquare.ioThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    AIGOLD Goes Live, Introducing the First Gold Backed Crypto Project

    AIGOLD is pleased to announce the launch of its innovative cryptocurrency project. This groundbreaking initiative integrates artificial intelligence with the enduring value of gold, aiming to redefine the landscape of digital assets. The presale phase of AIGOLD is currently underway, with early access available at aigold.io.AIGOLD: Pioneering Gold Integration in Cryptocurrency with Enhanced Security and Market StabilityAIGOLD is aiming to lead the integration of gold into the cryptocurrency sector, enhancing security and stability for those engaged in trading. The platform’s design includes dedicating a portion of the proceeds from the presale of AIG (NYSE:AIG) (AIGOLD) tokens to acquire PAXG tokens. PAXG tokens are backed by physical gold, each representing one fine troy ounce stored in LBMA-certified vaults in London. At launch, the liquidity pool, underpinned by over one million dollars in PAXG, will be securely locked and aligned with gold price movementThe initial presale price for AIGOLD is set at $0.0035 per token and the project underwent comprehensive audits from Cyberscope and is currently being audited by CertiK, underscore AIGOLD’s commitment to security and transparency. As the market trends towards gold-backed assets, AIGOLD is looking to offer a unique platform that not only secures value but also rewards participants with gold, enhancing their participation in the evolving digital economy. AIGOLD: Leading Sustainable Digital Finance with Strategic TokenomicsAIGOLD team’s innovative tokenomics structure is crafted to foster growth and establish a solid foundation for its next developmental phase. This structure, along with a strategic tax model, is aimed at enhancing the benefits for participants in the ecosystem. By reinvesting 2% of every transaction back into the liquidity pool, AIGOLD looks to ensure a dynamic and well-supported trading environment. Additionally, a designated marketing allocation aims at keeping AIGOLD prominent in the marketplace, driving ongoing visibility and engagement. The team sees the self-sustaining approach as marking a notable evolution in the cryptocurrency arena, positioning AIGOLD as a leader in sustainable digital finance practices.AIGOLD: Empowering Future Financial Landscapes with Innovative Rewards and StabilityAIGOLD’s ecosystem offers multiple compensation methods to its participants, including rewards in gold for every transaction. Holders of AIG tokens will potentially benefit from a 5% share of gold with each buy and sell action, thanks to AIG’s built-in reward mechanism. This reward is issued in digital gold, which can also be claimed physically. AIGOLD not only provides rewards in gold but also serves as a strategic hedge against inflation and de-dollarization. By integrating artificial intelligence with gold, AIGOLD is not merely a tool for potential profit but a forward-looking platform designed to empower participants for future financial landscapes.AIGOLD is excited to announce the limited release of its real gold-backed NFT Mining Permits, with a total of only 4,000 permits ever to be issued. These exclusive mining permits offer additional benefits to AIG NFT holders, including receiving an annual share of 25% of the profits from gold recovered in AIG’s mining operations. This innovative approach positions AIG NFT holders to benefit from the burgeoning digital economy.For more details and to ensure early access, users visit aigold.io to secure their place on the whitelist.AIGOLDs team marks a transformative point in the development of digital currencies by integrating artificial intelligence with genuine gold mining. This initiative is led by new technology, including an AI-integrated exploration recovery vessel (ERV) equipped with state-of-the-art tools and LIDAR systems. These advancements facilitate the extraction of gold from the seabed in the Bering Sea, where estimates suggest there are over 500 million ounces of gold. With the rising value of gold, strategic positioning is crucial. AIGOLD’s founder and CEO, Forest, from Cornell University, stated, “At AIGOLD, we are forging a unique combination of advanced artificial intelligence, forefront technology, and the reliability of gold-backed assets.” For more details about AIGOLD, including its tokenomics, token metrics, and gold paper, users can visit aigold.io.The AIG Team is set to introduce a variety of incentives and special offers to benefit AIG token holders. These include exclusive NFT Mining Permits, participation in charity events, air drops, and official merchandise available through the AIG store. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to enter a Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) Cyber Truck Competition.For more details on these exciting opportunities, users can visit aigold.io.AIGOLD is currently hosting a Cybertruck Competition featuring the chance to win a Tesla Cybertruck among a total of 20 prizes. The Tesla Cybertruck boasts remarkable features such as bulletproof construction, a waterproof or wade mode that allows driving in up to 30 inches of water, and a durable exoskeleton similar to materials used in Space X rockets. This all-electric vehicle includes Tesla’s autopilot system, accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds, can tow up to 11,000 lbs, and travels up to 340 miles on a single charge, all while being equipped with advanced interior technology. This competition is skill-based, not a random draw.In an era where durability and real-world utility are highly valued, AIGOLD offers a substantial opportunity. Moving away from transient trends in cryptocurrency, AIGOLD is looking to establish itself as a significant force with the potential to impact the crypto market significantly this year.About AIGOLDAIGOLD is the first-ever cryptocurrency project to back its liquidity pool in gold. Founded in 2023, they are a cryptocurrency ecosystem and a digital currency that offers a reward mechanism that pays out digital gold to all of their token holders. They are the first of their kind, bringing together AI and real gold mining. AIGOLD is a real utility token and aims to act as a hedge against inflation. They offer gold-backed assets through the buy/sell of their AIG token and access to the profits from their gold mining operations to Gold Mining NFT holders. AIGOLD is committed to and strives to become one of the top 100 cryptocurrencies and get on top-tier 1 exchanges. They are on a mission to maintain a self-sustainable, well-balanced, and healthy ecosystem where their investors and their ecosystem thrive. They aim to build a community of investors from around the world, including Bitcoin and Ethereum enthusiasts.Users can find more information about AIGOLD on the following platforms: Website I X I Telegram I Medium I InstagramAIGold is the source of this content. This Press Release is for informational purposes only. The information does not constitute investment advice or an offer to invest.ContactPR Media RelationsKate BrownAIGOLDaigoldofficial@aigold.ioThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Bitcoin price today: Slips to $61k as rates, regulatory fears spur consolidation

    The token once again drifted towards the lower end of a trading range seen through most of the last two months. Bitcoin had also slid as far as $57,000 in late-April, entering a bear market from record highs hit in early-March.Bitcoin fell 1.65% in the past 24 hours to $61,215 by 08:28 ET (12:28 GMT). The token was also reeling from sustained outflows from crypto investment products, particularly spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds.Regulatory fears continue to chip away at Bitcoin Concerns over increased U.S. regulatory scrutiny against crypto remained in play, after trading app Robinhood Markets Inc (NASDAQ:HOOD) said it was facing regulatory action from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over the trade of crypto tokens on its platform.Potential action against Robinhood could add to the current cases the SEC already has running against exchange Coinbase Global Inc (NASDAQ:COIN) and XRP issuer Ripple, both of which are expected to determine the nature of cryptocurrencies under U.S. law.The SEC was also reportedly investigating world no.2 token Ethereum over its nature as a security. The regulator postponed a decision on approving spot Ethereum ETFs this week, and appears unlikely to approve the ETFs until its investigation is concluded.A report released earlier this week alleged that over 90% of all transactions in stablecoins were artificial, raising concerns over more regulatory scrutiny against the sector, which is a key pillar of the crypto industry.As cryptocurrencies remain in a corrective phase, a series of supply events valued at billions could further delay significant recovery.According to a Wednesday report by 10x Research, nearly $2 billion worth of token unlocks over the next ten weeks could negatively impact the altcoin market.These unlocks often have a bearish impact as they increase supply by releasing assets previously held in vesting contracts to team members, organizations, and early investors such as venture capital firms.Over the next two months, nearly $97 million in Aptos (APT), $79 million in StarkWare (STRK), $94 million in Arbitrum (ARB), $53 million in Immutable X (IMX), $330 million in Avalanche (AVAX), $64 million in Optimism (OP), $28 million in PRIME, and nearly $1 billion in Sui (SUI), among others, will be introduced into circulation, the report indicates.”Venture capital investors might be pressured to lock in recent gains, which could cap any upside performance of tokens with positive momentum, especially those where unlocks become available,” the report states.Moreover, over $11 billion in Bitcoin is set to be distributed to creditors of Gemini’s Earn program and the now-defunct Mt. Gox crypto marketplace, per a Tuesday report by K33 Research analyst Velte Lunde.”The next months are rigged to see waves of good old crypto FUD,” said Lunde, referring to the popular acronym for fear, uncertainty and doubt (FUD).Recent reports also showed that customers of the now-defunct exchange FTX will receive their deposits back, with interest, although it was unclear whether the payments will be in cash or crypto.Beyond Bitcoin, other major crypto tokens also saw little relief on Thursday. Ethereum fell 0.7% and Solana lost 1.7%, while XRP rose 1.5%.Traders remained largely biased to the dollar after a string of Federal Reserve officials warned that U.S. interest rates were likely to remain high for longer in 2024- a scenario that bodes poorly for risk-heavy crypto markets. Focus is now on upcoming comments from more Fed speakers, as well as key U.S. inflation data due next week. More