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![Only 4% of South Koreans use metaverses, survey reveals 1 man with VR goggles making hand gestures | Only 4% of South Korea use the metaverse, survey reveals](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/metaverse-business-2022-07-14-18-34-04-utc-1260x840.jpg)
Only 4% of South Koreans use metaverses, survey reveals
Only 4.2% of South Korean citizens have said that they regularly use metaverse services, a recent survey results show.
![Crypto’s aversion to anti-money laundering standards is only hurting itself 2 anti-money laundering in global standards](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Forkast-Opinion-Images-5-1260x710.png)
Crypto’s aversion to anti-money laundering standards is only hurting itself
For crypto to grow for the long term, the industry must show greater respect for global standards that combat crime, writes Slava Demchuk of AMLBot.
![Bitcoin, Ether rise; Dogecoin falls despite record high transaction volume 3 Several golden cryptocurrencies highlighting the Dogecoin coin with graphics in blue color](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Doge.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether rise; Dogecoin falls despite record high transaction volume
Top 10 non-stablecoin cryptos traded mixed, while investors continue to assess U.S. debt talks.
![VeeCon: Rekindling the NFT Community's Fire 4 A shot of VeeCon](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Veecon-Gary-Twitter-e1684871498633.png)
VeeCon: Rekindling the NFT Community’s Fire
VeeCon 2023 NFT conference inspires and strengthens the market with community focus and innovation. Gary Vaynerchuk’s keynote resonates with fans worldwide.
![Hong Kong? Singapore? Tokyo? Seoul? Dubai? The race is on for the Web3 hub of Asia | Part 2 5 Hong Kong](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/HK-1260x728.jpg)
Hong Kong? Singapore? Tokyo? Seoul? Dubai? The race is on for the Web3 hub of Asia | Part 2
While U.S. regulators continue debating over whether cryptocurrencies are securities or commodities, the digital assets industry is being pleasantly welcomed by several Asian cities. And the competition is really hotting up now.
![Bitget crypto exchange registers in Poland 6 Warsaw, Poland.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/poland-1260x840.jpg)
Bitget crypto exchange registers in Poland
Seychelles-headquartered cryptocurrency exchange Bitget announced on Tuesday that it successfully registered as a virtual asset service provider in Poland.
![Binance allegedly commingled customer funds: Reuters 7 Binance logo](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/binance-1.jpg)
Binance allegedly commingled customer funds: Reuters
Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, has been accused of blending client funds with its own corporate revenue in violation of U.S. financial regulations, according to three unnamed sources cited by Reuters.
![Hong Kong to open crypto to retail traders, plans guardrails 8 Wong Tai Sin Temple in Hong Kong](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/HK2-1260x840.jpg)
Hong Kong to open crypto to retail traders, plans guardrails
Hong Kong will allow licensed cryptocurrency trading platforms to offer services to retail investors and will implement a slew of measures to protect individual traders, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) said on Tuesday.
![Governments could access Ledger wallet private keys, says CEO 9 Ledger Nano S hardware wallet cold storage for cryptocurrency](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ledger_Nano_S_-_Hard_Wallet_-_Cold_Storage_for_Cryptocurrency_04-1260x945.jpg)
Governments could access Ledger wallet private keys, says CEO
Cryptocurrency wallet Ledger’s new update allows governments to access users’ seed phrases via subpoena, said Pascal Gauthier, the chief executive officer of Ledger.
![All top 10 cryptos rise; Hotbit crypto exchange shuts down; U.S. stock futures drop 10 Bitcoin golden coin and dollar background. Cryptocurrency](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin4-1260x841.jpg)
All top 10 cryptos rise; Hotbit crypto exchange shuts down; U.S. stock futures drop
Bitcoin gained 1.71% and Ether climbed 2.35%. Polygon gained the most in 24 hours followed by Tron.
![Philippines regulator warns against Gemini Derivatives for unregistered securities 11 Philippines flag and Gemini logo | Philippines regulator warns against Gemini Derivatives for unregistered securities](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Untitled-design-44-1260x709.jpg)
Philippines regulator warns against Gemini Derivatives for unregistered securities
The Philippines Securities and Exchange Commission warned the public last week not to use crypto exchange Gemini’s derivatives platform.
![How many of today's AI darlings will end up in the dot-com and crypto sewage? 12 dot com, crypto and AI](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Forkast-Opinion-Images-6-1260x710.png)
How many of today’s AI darlings will end up in the dot-com and crypto sewage?
For every PayPal or Google, countless other startups from the bubble days of yore took investor money down the toilet, writes Naveen Agnihotri. What makes this AI boom any different?
![Bitcoin, Ether, top 10 cryptos rise; US futures climb 13 crypto btc](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/crypto-btc.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether, top 10 cryptos rise; US futures climb
The top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ether, were up across the board as U.S. Fed rate talks and debt negotiation outcomes remain unpredictable.
![Hong Kong? Singapore? Tokyo? Seoul? Dubai? The race is on for the Web3 hub of Asia | Part 1 14 Tourist junk boat ferry with red sails and Hong Kong skyline cityscape downtown skyscrapers over Victoria Harbour in the evening. Hong Kong, China](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Hong-kong-1260x840.jpg)
Hong Kong? Singapore? Tokyo? Seoul? Dubai? The race is on for the Web3 hub of Asia | Part 1
As U.S. regulators file lawsuits against cryptocurrency platforms, prompting some digital asset companies to seek more favorable jurisdictions, a fleet of cities in Asia are putting out the welcome mat, seeking to attract the jobs and investment that Web3 technologies promise. Right now, Hong Kong seems to be grabbing the limelight, but it has competition.
![Malaysian regulator orders Huobi crypto exchange to cease local operations 15 The popular tourist attraction of Batu Caves which are sacred Hindi limestone caves near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/batu-caves-malaysia-1260x840.jpg)
Malaysian regulator orders Huobi crypto exchange to cease local operations
The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), the capital markets regulator, has charged cryptocurrency exchange Huobi Global and its chief executive officer Leon Li for operating a digital asset exchange (DAX) without registration.
![Bitcoin, top 10 cryptos fall except Tron; U.S. futures slightly up; Asian equities rise 16 3 different colored bitcoin digital currency on computer keyboard with blurred background of investing chart stock market trading in monitor, future financial currency concept](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin-16-1260x802.jpg)
Bitcoin, top 10 cryptos fall except Tron; U.S. futures slightly up; Asian equities rise
Bitcoin traded below US$27,000 in Monday afternoon trade in Asia.
![Are deposit tokens the new stablecoins — or a wolf in sheep’s clothing? 17 deposit slip with coins](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Forkast-Opinion-Images-3-1260x710.png)
Are deposit tokens the new stablecoins — or a wolf in sheep’s clothing?
Stablecoins are a key part of the crypto ecosystem, but banks like JPMorgan are now exploring deposit tokens as an alternative. Which is better, and why?
![S.Korean lawmakers propose public officials disclose crypto holdings 18 South Korea's Ruling Party lawmaker Lee Man-hee | S.Korean lawmaker propose public officials disclose crypto holdings |](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Untitled-design-42-1260x709.jpg)
S.Korean lawmakers propose public officials disclose crypto holdings
A South Korean ruling party lawmaker proposed all public officials and candidates disclose their crypto holdings in a new bill unveiled last Friday.
![Circle: US regulation can help create the 'most stable stablecoin' 19 Circle’s reserve breakdown shows US$13.58B cash and US$42.12B U.S. Treasurys](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/52196963136_2eca3c7ede_o.jpg)
Circle: US regulation can help create the ‘most stable stablecoin’
Circle Vice President of Global Policy Corey Then says he is optimistic that U.S. regulatory developments can eventually benefit local players despite ongoing scrutiny.
![Bitcoin, Ether fall; Tron trades higher; Investors digest G7, U.S. debt ceiling implications 20 Cryptocurrencies](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/crypto-8.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether fall; Tron trades higher; Investors digest G7, U.S. debt ceiling implications
Bitcoin fell below US$27,000 on Sunday, dipping further Monday morning in Asia as wider macro developments continue to weigh.
![Weekly Market Wrap: Bitcoin trades below US$27,000 amid U.S. debt ceiling negotiations 21 Bitcoin on chart | Bitcoin, Ether fall to month lows; Polygon leads losers; U.S. equity futures up as inflation cools | Markets, BTC - Bitcoin, ETH - Ethereum, Matic - Polygon, Inflation](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin-coins-on-stock-chart-background-2022-12-16-11-11-48-utc-1-1260x840.jpg)
Weekly Market Wrap: Bitcoin trades below US$27,000 amid U.S. debt ceiling negotiations
Bitcoin traded below the US$27,000 mark for most of the week, as investor sentiment was weighed down by the prospect of the U.S. government’s potential default. Investors will be closely monitoring the ongoing debt ceiling negotiations.
![XRP lone gainer among top 10 cryptocurrencies 22 Ripple XRP token and market screen backdrop | Markets: Bitcoin, Ether inch up; XRP biggest loser among top 10 | bitcoin price today, ether price today, crypto market today, crypto price, xrp news](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/markets-1230-1260x945.png)
XRP lone gainer among top 10 cryptocurrencies
Bitcoin and Ether fell during afternoon trading in Asia, along all other top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, excluding XRP.
![Ripple joins Hong Kong CBDC pilot, partners with Fubon Bank 23 Ripple logo, Hong Kong dollars](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Timmy2-1-1-1260x709.jpg)
Ripple joins Hong Kong CBDC pilot, partners with Fubon Bank
Ripple Labs has launched a new payment platform for a central bank digital currency in Hong Kong.
![XRP gains; Lift-off for Space Pepe NFTs; US investor sentiment up on positive debt talks 24 Golden BTC Bitcoin and XRP Ripple Coins | XRP sees gains after Ripple’s CBDC announcement; US investor sentiment up on positive debt ceiling talks; Bitcoin Ordinals tops sales](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/golden-btc-bitcoin-and-xrp-ripple-coins-2022-12-16-11-51-33-utc-1260x833.jpeg)
XRP gains; Lift-off for Space Pepe NFTs; US investor sentiment up on positive debt talks
Bitcoin and Ether prices fell on Friday morning in Asia. XRP gained after Hong Kong CBDC announcement by issuer Ripple.
![How blockchain can shift electric car use into the fast lane 25 electric vehicle and blockchain concept](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Forkast-Opinion-Images-2-1260x710.png)
How blockchain can shift electric car use into the fast lane
Electric vehicles remain rare in developing countries because of high costs and ‘range anxiety,’ writes George Cox of eTukTuk. Here’s how blockchain technology can remove those barriers.
![Is Tether unmoored — or just dandy? 26 Tether USDT China Litecoin](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Tether-USDT-China-Litecoin-1260x710.png)
Is Tether unmoored — or just dandy?
Top blockchain and crypto news: Fighting words over USDT erupt on Twitter. Litecoin surges amid memecoin fever. Chinese city bids for blockchain business.
![Hong Kong’s e-HKD pilot puts the world on notice 27 HKMA boss Eddie Yue](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Hong-Kong-e-HKD-pilot-puts-the-world-on-notice-1260x840.jpg)
Hong Kong’s e-HKD pilot puts the world on notice
Rollout of the central bank digital currency in Hong Kong is a potential game-changer and a move that others may soon look to follow.
![Binance suspends Australian dollar services 28 Binance logo displayed on screen and a kangaroo.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Binance-Australia-ASIC-license-1260x709.jpg)
Binance suspends Australian dollar services
World’s largest cryptocurrency exchange halts Australian dollar services after payment provider cuts off service.
![Matic leads crypto rise despite Ledger security concerns 29 stack of Bitcoins. | January weekly crypto investment reaches highest since July 2022, says CoinShares report](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/bitcoinnew-1260x840.jpg)
Matic leads crypto rise despite Ledger security concerns
Cryptocurrencies rebounded on Thursday but wallet service provider Ledger’s latest update raised new security concerns.
![Philippine telco giant partners BlockchainSpace for Web3 creator platform 30 (From left to right) Dexter Chan, Smart acting vice president for content business development; Peter Ing, BlockchainSpace founder and chief executive officer; Lloyd Manaloto, Smart first vice president head of prepaid and content; and Aspen Sañez, BlockchainSpace global head of marketing.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Philippine-telco-giant-partners-BlockchainSpace-for-Web3-Creator-Platform-1260x840.jpg)
Philippine telco giant partners BlockchainSpace for Web3 creator platform
Smart Communications, one of the Philippines’ largest telcos, is entering the Web3 space through a partnership with Web3 community enabler in Southeast Asia, BlockchainSpace.
![Bitcoin mining difficulty rises to a new all-time high 31 Bitcoin and cryptocurrency miner](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mining.jpg)
Bitcoin mining difficulty rises to a new all-time high
Bitcoin’s mining difficulty level rose 3.22% on Thursday, hitting an all-time high, as the network’s hashrate also increased to a record high.
![Montenegro prosecutors appeal court ruling to allow bail for Terraform Labs CEO Do Kwon 32 Flag of Montenegro, Do Kwon | Montenegro prosecutors appeal court ruling to allow bail for Terraform Labs CEO Do Kwon | do kwon, terra luna, terraform labs](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Untitled-design-39-1260x709.jpg)
Montenegro prosecutors appeal court ruling to allow bail for Terraform Labs CEO Do Kwon
Montenegro prosecutors have filed an appeal against a local court decision to approve bail for the detained Terraform Labs CEO Do Kwon.
![Conflux Network, China Telecom unveil blockchain-based SIM card 33 A SIM card with Conflux logo | Conflux Network, China Telecom unveil blockchain-based SIM card | Conflux Network, China, Hong Kong](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/featured-image-6-1260x709.jpg)
Conflux Network, China Telecom unveil blockchain-based SIM card
Conflux Network and China Telecom on Tuesday unveiled their first blockchain-based SIM card, which will be piloted in Hong Kong.
![Bitcoin, Ether mixed; Polygon leads gainers; Equity futures flat as U.S. debt default worries recede 34 bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies | Bitcoin, Ether mixed; Polygon leads gainers; Equity futures flat as U.S. debt default worries recede](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/virtual-currency-cryptocurrency-2021-08-26-22-36-31-utc-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether mixed; Polygon leads gainers; Equity futures flat as U.S. debt default worries recede
Bitcoin prices rose on Thursday morning in Asia. Ether edged down, while other top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies by market capitalization gained.
![Bitget crypto exchange doubles down on expansion, to hire 300 more 35 Bitcoin, cryptocurrency trading.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitget2-1260x840.jpg)
Bitget crypto exchange doubles down on expansion, to hire 300 more
Bitget is looking to hire 300 more people across operations, compliance, research and development, and customer support, the cryptocurrency exchange said.
![Ordinals inscriptions slow down but Bitcoin congestion lingers 36 Bitcoin | Bitcoin loses ground, Ether dips even as inflows rise; Litecoin edges up, with halving cited | Markets, BTC - Bitcoin, ETH - Ethereum, LTC - Litecoin, Memecoin](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/golden-bitcoin-cryptocurrency-2021-08-26-18-32-29-utc-2-1260x840.jpg)
Ordinals inscriptions slow down but Bitcoin congestion lingers
Ordinals inscriptions have slowed down this week but Bitcoin continues suffering from congestion issues due to the BRC-20 craze.
![Ripple Labs acquires digital asset custody provider Metaco for US$250 mln 37 Ripple coin on dollar banknotes. XRP Cryptocurrency on US dollar bills](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ripple-1260x840.jpg)
Ripple Labs acquires digital asset custody provider Metaco for US$250 mln
San Francisco-based Ripple Labs, a technology and financial services firm built around the XRP cryptocurrency, said it will acquire Metaco, a Swiss-based tokenization and digital asset custody provider, for US$250 million.
![UK lawmakers propose cryptocurrency regulation as gambling 38 UK lawmakers propose cryptocurrency regulation as gambling](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Cryptocurrency-Bitcoin-gambling-1260x832.jpg)
UK lawmakers propose cryptocurrency regulation as gambling
In a new report, U.K. lawmakers suggest treating Bitcoin and Ether like gambling due to significant consumer financial risks.
![Bitcoin slips below US$27,000, XRP leads gains in top 10 cryptos 39 bitcoin on downtrend red candlestick graph background](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bitcoin-15-1260x734.jpg)
Bitcoin slips below US$27,000, XRP leads gains in top 10 cryptos
Bitcoin prices dropped below US$27,000 on Wednesday afternoon in Asia, while XRP gained the most after positive news for Ripple Labs on its lawsuit against U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
![China’s top prosecuting body issues warnings, guidance about country’s NFT market 40 China emblem and NFT | China’s top prosecuting body issues warnings, guidance about country’s NFT market | China, Regulation & Law, NFT - Non-Fungible Token](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/featured-image-5-1260x772.jpg)
China’s top prosecuting body issues warnings, guidance about country’s NFT market
China’s top legal authority issued a commentary on Monday about the risks and potential in NFTs, highlighting the need for legislation.
![XRP lawsuit: Judge denies SEC motion to seal documents in win for Ripple 41 William Hinman, a former director of the SEC’s Division of Corporation Finance. Images: SEC, Envato Elements](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Timmy2-1-1260x709.jpg)
XRP lawsuit: Judge denies SEC motion to seal documents in win for Ripple
A U.S. federal judge has denied a motion by the SEC to seal internal documents related to a speech given by the SEC’s former director on whether cryptocurrencies are securities.
![Web3 needs to engage with local communities. Its future depends on it 42 Web 3.0](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Forkast-Opinion-Images-8-1260x710.png)
Web3 needs to engage with local communities. Its future depends on it
Web3’s terrible user experience, scams and lack of diversity could be solved if its leaders take a cue from environmentalists and ‘act locally,’ writes Tim Williamson of NieuxCo.
![XRP gains as SEC motion denied; NFT index down; US investors anticipate debt ceiling deal 43 Ripple coin isolated on black background. Cryptocurrency. Top view | XRP gains as U.S. denies SEC motion; NFT index down; U.S. equities anticipate debt ceiling deal | hinman speech, ripple sec, crypto news, crypto price, bitcoin, ether, nft, biden debt ceiling](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ripple-coin-isolated-on-black-background-2022-12-16-11-17-39-utc-1260x840.jpg)
XRP gains as SEC motion denied; NFT index down; US investors anticipate debt ceiling deal
Bitcoin prices fell on Wednesday morning in Asia but remained above the US$27,000 line. Ether gained but still posted a weekly drop. XRP led gainers among other top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies.
![Bitcoin history shows first financial transaction was almost an NFT 44 Screenshot of image on Bitcoin sale in 2010, as displayed on Bitcointalk.org.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Bitcoin-1260x875.png)
Bitcoin history shows first financial transaction was almost an NFT
Internet sleuths unearth the first financial transaction on Bitcoin, showcasing the potential of NFTs.
![Bitcoin, Ether fall, Solana leads declines; U.S. stock futures trade flat; Asian equities mixed 45 Bitcoin on a home computer chart and money and investment](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin-12-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether fall, Solana leads declines; U.S. stock futures trade flat; Asian equities mixed
Bitcoin fell 0.58% while Ether dropped 0.36%. Solana was the biggest loser of the day, dropping 1.67%.
![EU's MiCA gets unanimous nod from European Council 46 EU crypto MiCA](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/EU-1260x840.jpg)
EU’s MiCA gets unanimous nod from European Council
European Union finance ministers unanimously approved MiCA, a set of cryptocurrency rules aiming to reshape the digital asset industry across the EU bloc.
![SEC in no rush to respond to Coinbase calls for regulatory clarity 47 Logos of SEC and Coinbase](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Timmy2-1260x709.jpg)
SEC in no rush to respond to Coinbase calls for regulatory clarity
As part of the ongoing legal dispute between the two, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said it would not be hurried into a response to Coinbase demands.
![South Korea raids firms Upbit, Bithumb, Kakao over local lawmaker’s crypto scandal 48 Lawmaker Kim Nam-kuk and Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office | South Korea raids firms Upbit, Bithumb, Kakao over local lawmaker’s crypto scandal](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Untitled-design-38-1260x709.jpg)
South Korea raids firms Upbit, Bithumb, Kakao over local lawmaker’s crypto scandal
South Korean prosecutors have raided Upbit, Bithumb and the crypto wallet unit of Kakao, as part of their investigation into lawmaker Kim Nam-kuk.
![How DeFi can keep out bad apples while upholding crypto's core ideals 49 anti-money laundering, crypto coins](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Forkast-Opinion-Images-1-1260x710.png)
How DeFi can keep out bad apples while upholding crypto’s core ideals
Crypto users need not fear the increasing KYC/AML requirements around the world and loss of privacy, writes Kurt Hemecker of the Mina Foundation. Here’s why.
![Bitcoin, Ether gains; Litecoin continues bull run; optimism a solution to US debt crisis can be reached 50 bitcoin crypto currency diagram | Bitcoin, Ether gains; Litecoin continues bull run; optimism solution to US debt crisis will be reached](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin-crypto-currency-diagram-2022-07-07-16-02-20-utc-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether gains; Litecoin continues bull run; optimism a solution to US debt crisis can be reached
Bitcoin prices rose along with Ether, while Litecoin continues to lead gainers among other top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies.
![Bitcoin, Ether push higher, Litecoin biggest gainer in top 10 cryptos; U.S. stock futures, Asian equities gain 51 Cryptocurrency golden bitcoin](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin-11-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether push higher, Litecoin biggest gainer in top 10 cryptos; U.S. stock futures, Asian equities gain
Bitcoin rose 2.07% to US$27,409 in 24 hours while Ether gained 1.27% to US$1,829. Litecoin was the biggest gainer of the day, rising 7.65%.
![Head of U.S. DOJ crypto enforcement eyes crackdown on non-compliant crypto exchanges: FT 52 DOJ Logo](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/GettyImages-803354590-1260x916.jpg)
Head of U.S. DOJ crypto enforcement eyes crackdown on non-compliant crypto exchanges: FT
The U.S. Department of Justice is aiming to crack down on cryptocurrency exchanges that help criminals facilitate money laundering
![Tokenization is changing the world, from finance to art 53 blockchain and NFT abstract concept](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Forkast-Opinion-Images-9-1260x710.png)
Tokenization is changing the world, from finance to art
Fractionalizing assets on the blockchain opens up investment opportunities for the public and the capital market’s access to liquidity, writes Bob Ras. Here’s what’s holding it back.
![China’s Jiangsu Province to expand digital yuan adoption in education sector 54 E-CNY icon and office supplies | China’s Jiangsu Province to expand digital yuan adoption in education sector | China, CBDC - Central Bank Digital Currencies, Digital Yuan](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/featured-image-5-1260x898.png)
China’s Jiangsu Province to expand digital yuan adoption in education sector
China’s Jiangsu Province plans to expand the use of digital yuan to its public education system, as the province seeks to spearhead the country’s CBDC pilot.
![Bank of Korea and financial regulator in turf war over who supervises crypto industry 55 bitcoin korean won | Bank of Korea and financial regulator in turf war over who supervises crypto industry](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin-korean-won-1260x945.png)
Bank of Korea and financial regulator in turf war over who supervises crypto industry
Bank of Korea, the central bank, seems uncomfortable with the Financial Services Commission, the country’s regulator, having the mandate over the cryptocurrency industry. The bank is pushing for more say, arguing crypto can influence the stability of the overall financial market and that involves the central bank.
![China’s Fuzhou City offers cash, subsidies to attract blockchain companies, investment 56 China flag and yuan icon | China’s Fuzhou City offers cash benefits to attract blockchain companies, investment | China, DLT - Distributed Ledger Technology, Regulation & Law](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/featured-image-4-1260x840.png)
China’s Fuzhou City offers cash, subsidies to attract blockchain companies, investment
China’s Fuzhou City on Friday unveiled a raft of policies to attract investment by blockchain-related companies, including rent subsidies and cash awards.
![Binance exits Canada amid increased regulation in North America 57 The national flag of Canada. Image: Envato Elements](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Canada.jpg)
Binance exits Canada amid increased regulation in North America
Regulatory hurdles have once again hit Binance in North America, with the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange announcing on Friday that it would cease operations in Canada due to tightened crypto rules.
![Bitcoin, Ether edge higher; Litecoin leads gainers; investors weigh impact of US debt crisis 58 Bitcoin, ether](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/golden-bitcoin-and-computer-chip-in-background-2022-02-16-06-56-59-utc-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether edge higher; Litecoin leads gainers; investors weigh impact of US debt crisis
Bitcoin prices rose on Monday morning in Asia to above US$27,000. Ether managed to rise above the US$1,800 support level as Litecoin leads gainers.
![Looking to expand Web3 activities into Japan? Watch the biggest firms for clues, says gaming protocol founder. 59 Sebastien Guillemot, Web3 developer in Japan](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/IMG-3258-1260x946.jpg)
Looking to expand Web3 activities into Japan? Watch the biggest firms for clues, says gaming protocol founder.
While the community might be small, there’s a growing buzz around Web3 in Japan, with overseas companies now taking note. For clues on how to make it big in the land of the rising sun, follow the lead of the nation’s largest firms, says Sebastien Guillemot, co-founder of Paima Studios.
![Elon Musk’s NFT rocket launch. What has he done to Milady? 60 ElonMusk](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ElonMusk-1260x862.jpg)
Elon Musk’s NFT rocket launch. What has he done to Milady?
NFTs were ready for takeoff this week and Elon Musk’s tweet blasted it off.
![Weekly Market Wrap: Bitcoin dips to US$26,166 as memecoins flood the blockchain 61 Coins with bitcoin symbol on red light and crypto stocks chart background. Concept of a cryptocurrency market crisis.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/markets-1260x946.jpg)
Weekly Market Wrap: Bitcoin dips to US$26,166 as memecoins flood the blockchain
Bitcoin briefly fell to US$26,166 this week, as BRC-20 memecoins flooded the blockchain, raising network congestion issues. Market analysts told Forkast that a weekly close under US$26,111 signals more bearish momentum
![Bitcoin, Ether fall along with most top 10 cryptos; U.S. futures rise ahead of debt ceiling negotiations 62 Bitcoin tokens above dollar banknotes](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/crypto-6-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether fall along with most top 10 cryptos; U.S. futures rise ahead of debt ceiling negotiations
Bitcoin and Ether fell during Friday afternoon trading in Asia, along with most of the top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, apart from the XRP token.
![Binance.US may reduce founder Changpeng Zhao’s ownership stake: The Information 63 Binance.US founder Changpeng Zhao. Image: Binance/Twitter](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/CZ-1260x671.jpg)
Binance.US may reduce founder Changpeng Zhao’s ownership stake: The Information
Binance.US is reportedly exploring ways to cut founder Changpeng Zhao’s ownership stake in the company, The Information reported on Thursday, citing two sources familiar with the matter.
![Japan government’s crypto czar touts nation’s Web3 capabilities 64 Tokyo Big Sight venue, Japan](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/IMG-3227-1260x945.jpg)
Japan government’s crypto czar touts nation’s Web3 capabilities
Japan was an early believer in blockchain and cryptocurrencies until exchange hacks brought a crackdown. But that was then. Now the government has become a crypto cheerleader.
![Bitcoin, Ether fall to month lows; Polygon leads losers; U.S. equity futures up as inflation cools 65 Bitcoin on chart | Bitcoin, Ether fall to month lows; Polygon leads losers; U.S. equity futures up as inflation cools | Markets, BTC - Bitcoin, ETH - Ethereum, Matic - Polygon, Inflation](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/bitcoin-coins-on-stock-chart-background-2022-12-16-11-11-48-utc-1-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether fall to month lows; Polygon leads losers; U.S. equity futures up as inflation cools
Bitcoin prices slid under US$27,000 on Friday morning in Asia. Ether fell below support at US$1,800 as all top 10 non-stablecoin tokens retreated.
![Terraform’s Do Kwon pleads not guilty to passport forgery; lawyers propose US$437,000 bail 66 Terraform’s Do Kwon pleads not guilty to passport forgery; lawyers propose US$437,000 bail](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Untitled-design-36-1260x709.jpg)
Terraform’s Do Kwon pleads not guilty to passport forgery; lawyers propose US$437,000 bail
Terraform Labs chief Do Kwon denied charges of attempting to travel with fake travel documents during a court hearing Thursday in Montenegro.
![Animoca Brands says it holds US$3.4 bln in assets 67 Animoca Brands co-founder and chairman Yat Siu | Animoca Brands slashes Web3 fund target to US$1B: Bloomberg | ftx, animoca brands, star atlas](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/GettyImages-1435140035-1260x885.jpg)
Animoca Brands says it holds US$3.4 bln in assets
Animoca Brands revealed US$2.7 billion in off-balance sheet token reserves in its latest unaudited financial update.
![Bitcoin network buckles under weight of BRC-20's runaway success 68 BRC-20 makes Bitcoin network a victim of its own success](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/BRC-20-makes-Bitcoin-network-a-victim-of-its-own-success-1260x710.png)
Bitcoin network buckles under weight of BRC-20’s runaway success
Top blockchain and crypto news: Memecoin fever strains BTC network. Binance slams brakes on Bitcoin withdrawals. Chinese court allows crypto for repaying debt.
![Bitcoin congestion issues continue amid BRC-20 memecoin, Ordinals surge 69 A screenshot of Bitcoin Punks, on the Ordinals.Market NFT marketplace](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Bitcoin-Punks-ScreenCap-1260x708.png)
Bitcoin congestion issues continue amid BRC-20 memecoin, Ordinals surge
Bitcoin network faces heightened congestion with over 5 million inscriptions, exacerbating block space demand as BRC-20 tokens achieve a market cap milestone of $1 billion, contributing to increased activity on the network.
![Bitcoin, Ether fall along with most cryptos; U.S. futures strengthen as inflation in April slowed 70 Gold bitcoin coin falling to water. Bitcoin and water splash.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/gold-bitcoin-coin-falling-to-water-bitcoin-and-wa-2021-08-30-02-16-08-utc-5-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin, Ether fall along with most cryptos; U.S. futures strengthen as inflation in April slowed
Bitcoin and Ether fell during Thursday afternoon trading in Asia, along with most of the top 10 non-stablecoin cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, with Polygon’s Matic leading losses for a second consecutive session.
![Japan looks to regain its place in the cryptocurrency world pecking order 71 Japan Nextech week conference hall](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/NexTech-Week-2023-1260x889.jpg)
Japan looks to regain its place in the cryptocurrency world pecking order
The three-day NexTech Week trade show kicked off Wednesday in Tokyo, celebrating all things technology, including blockchain and Artificial Intelligence.
![China’s national blockchain research center aims to train 500,000 blockchain professionals 72 China emblem on circuit | China’s national blockchain research center aims to train 500,000 blockchain professionals | China, DLT - Distributed Ledger Technology, Government](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/china-flag-on-circuit-1260x884.png)
China’s national blockchain research center aims to train 500,000 blockchain professionals
China’s national blockchain research center was launched in Beijing on Wednesday and plans to train over 500,000 blockchain professionals for the country.