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![In crypto market, altcoins get a chance to shine 1 AVAX SHIB](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/AVAX-SHIB.png)
In crypto market, altcoins get a chance to shine
AVAX and SHIB outperform Bitcoin, which gained in price but shied from the $50K mark.
![China’s Inner Mongolia seeks out stealth crypto mining operations 2 crypto mining farm](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/mining-farm.png)
China’s Inner Mongolia seeks out stealth crypto mining operations
China’s Inner Mongolia region — once a thriving cryptocurrency mining hub that has enacted a series of measures to rein in the sector — is tightening its crackdown by hiring a contractor to monitor and ferret out mining operations. Fast facts The Inner Mongolia Development and Reform Commission announced on Wednesday a bidding result for […]
![China’s e-CNY rollout enters ‘sprint stage’ for Beijing Winter Olympics 3 Chinese RMB banknote](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/chinese-rmb-banknote-L2DM78Q-1260x664.jpg)
China’s e-CNY rollout enters ‘sprint stage’ for Beijing Winter Olympics
Digital yuan expected to undergo its first crucial international test despite concerns it can be used as a surveillance tool.
![U.S. Treasury prepares to recommend stricter regulation on stablecoins 4 treasury](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Treasury-1260x823.jpg)
U.S. Treasury prepares to recommend stricter regulation on stablecoins
The U.S. Treasury is preparing a raft of recommendations for stricter oversight of Tether and other stablecoins, as unnamed insiders say the department has identified the greatest risks posed by the tokens, according to a recent Bloomberg report. Fast facts Making sure investors are able to transfer money in and out of tokens is a […]
![El Salvador’s Bitcoin adoption, one week on 5 bitcoinbeach](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Bitcoinbeach.jpg)
El Salvador’s Bitcoin adoption, one week on
It’s hot on Bitcoin Beach and the Twitterverse, but the new legal tender doesn’t have uptake elsewhere in the Central American country.
![Crypto exchange Binance wants centralized headquarters amid regulatory heat 6 Crypto exchange CEO Changpeng Zhao](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Binance-1260x709.jpg)
Crypto exchange Binance wants centralized headquarters amid regulatory heat
Under scrutiny around the world, the largest cryptocurrency exchange wants to do a better job engaging with regulators.
![Avalanche's AVAX token surges to all-time high after $230M fundraise 7 Avalanche](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Avalanche-1260x709.jpg)
Avalanche’s AVAX token surges to all-time high after $230M fundraise
AVAX — the native token of the Avalanche blockchain — today surged to a new all-time high of US$68.34, according to CoinGecko data, boosted by news of a US$230 million investment into the Avalanche ecosystem. AVAX has increased by 60% over the past seven days. Fast facts Launched in September 2020, Avalanche is an open, […]
![Institutional DeFi poised to become a $1 trillion industry, Blockdata says 8 Institutional DeFi poised to become a $1 trillion industry, Blockdata says](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/DeFi-blockdata-1260x709.jpg)
Institutional DeFi poised to become a $1 trillion industry, Blockdata says
Blockchain research firm sees explosive growth in smart contract-based products that can replace existing financial services.
![How quadratic funding promotes projects for the common good 9 Man casting his vote to a ballot box mockup, quadratic funding can democratize community capital allocation](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/democracy-voting-poll-psd-X935T68-1260x840.jpg)
How quadratic funding promotes projects for the common good
What is quadratic funding, and why is this mathematical method ideal for allocating capital for a community? Pranav Sharma of Woodstock Fund explains.
![Hong Kong-based crypto lender Babel Finance expands to Singapore 10 Babel Finance, Babel Finance survives short-term debt requirements](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/截圖-2021-09-16-下午6.21.08.png)
Hong Kong-based crypto lender Babel Finance expands to Singapore
Babel Finance, a Hong Kong-based crypto lender and asset manager, today announced it is opening a business headquarters in Singapore named Babel Asia, as the company looks to serve more clients globally. Fast facts Babel Asia plans to serve as a base for future merger and acquisition activities, together with Babel Finance to drive mainstream […]
![Logging each step in tea production on a blockchain — from farm to cup 11 kombucha](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/kombucha-1260x945.jpg)
Logging each step in tea production on a blockchain — from farm to cup
With the ease of counterfeiting products like premium tea, keeping a tamper-proof digital paper trail can record each step along the way.
![Canaan sees strongest ever quarterly sales results 12 Bitcoin mining machines, Canaan sees strongest ever quarterly sales results](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bitcoin-mining-farm-it-hardware-PMCWJGQ-1260x840.jpg)
Canaan sees strongest ever quarterly sales results
Leading Chinese crypto mining hardware manufacturer attributes robust revenue to ‘substantial increase in total computing power sold.’
![NFT charity auction to benefit low-income families in Singapore 13 BAS and NTUC-U-Care logos. One of the auction NFTs titled “'Protectors of the Soul” contributed by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Hamlatul Arsy Mulia, daughter of HRH Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/BAS-NTUC-U-Care-1260x709.jpg)
NFT charity auction to benefit low-income families in Singapore
Blockchain Association Singapore (BAS) and Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) U Care Fund today announced their inaugural non-fungible token (NFT) charity auction event, Blockchain For Good, which will take place Oct. 4 to 10. Fast facts The charity initiative — supported by a wide range of companies including Singapore Airlines, Amazon Web Services Inc., […]
![South Korea's finance minister stands by 20% crypto income tax plan 14 South Korean National Assembly | Finance Minister says no delay in crypto tax law](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/GettyImages-1282599039-1260x840.jpg)
South Korea’s finance minister stands by 20% crypto income tax plan
South Korea’s finance minister Hong Nam-ki gave a firm “no” at the National Assembly to lawmakers asking for crypto taxation to be delayed until the industry is fully prepared. Fast facts Minister Hong insisted the plan to tax capital gains from cryptocurrency transactions should be executed as planned. The amended tax law stipulates that crypto […]
![African cryptocurrency market grows by more than 12 times in past year 15 African man using his phone, African cryptocurrency market grows by more than 12 times in the past year](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/african-man-in-africa-traditional-shirt-9EFXXTY-1260x838.jpg)
African cryptocurrency market grows by more than 12 times in past year
African countries collectively received US$105.6 billion worth of cryptocurrency between July 2020 and June 2021, a year-on-year increase by more than 12 times, blockchain data platform Chainalysis said in a report. Fast facts The adoption rate of cryptocurrency in Africa at the grassroots level is the highest in the world. And retail transactions in Africa […]
![China’s blockchain infrastructure project goes live in Hong Kong, Macau 16 BSN](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/新建-Microsoft-PowerPoint-演示文稿-1-1260x709.jpg)
China’s blockchain infrastructure project goes live in Hong Kong, Macau
Blockchain-based Service Network (BSN) soft launch is the first attempt to roll out the state-backed ‘internet for blockchain’ outside of the Chinese mainland.
![Insider trading scandal rocks world’s biggest NFT platform OpenSea 17 NFTs](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/OpenSea-1260x801.png)
Insider trading scandal rocks world’s biggest NFT platform OpenSea
As the trading volume in non-fungible tokens begins to slow down from recent record heights, leading NFT marketplace OpenSea has been rocked by an insider trading scandal involving a senior team member. Fast facts The company, dubbed “the eBay of NFTs,” issued a statement yesterday acknowledging it became aware on Tuesday that an employee had […]
![How you can own a (tiny) part of a Thai beachfront villa for US$150 18 Fraction](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Fraction-1260x974.jpg)
How you can own a (tiny) part of a Thai beachfront villa for US$150
Blockchain and tokenization are transforming how real estate can be bought and sold. Here is how one fintech startup in Asia is using digital fractionalization to raise capital.
![Litecoin unloved at Walmart. Cardano’s Alonzo upgrade. China takes aim at NFTs. 19 Shoppers Hit Stores On Black Friday Amid Worsening Pandemic](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Walmart-at-night.jpg)
Litecoin unloved at Walmart. Cardano’s Alonzo upgrade. China takes aim at NFTs.
Top blockchain and crypto news: Walmart dispels Litecoin hoax. Cardano’s real work begins. Beijing bears down on NFTs.
![SEC chair says most cryptocurrencies including stablecoins are securities 20 SEC Chair Gary Gensler says most cryptocurrencies including stablecoins are securities](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/GettyImages-145009756-1260x840.jpg)
SEC chair says most cryptocurrencies including stablecoins are securities
In his testimony before the Senate Banking Committee, Gary Gensler, chairman of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, said that Coinbase lists “dozens of tokens that may be securities.” Fast facts In response to Senator Pat Toomey’s questions about whether cryptocurrencies classify as securities, Gensler said “very many” of the cryptocurrencies, including stablecoins, are in […]
![2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou to sell torch NFTs supported by Alipay 21 Asian Games NFT](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Asian-Games-NFT.jpg)
2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou to sell torch NFTs supported by Alipay
Despite widespread criticism of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) that has emerged in Chinese state-owned media, the 2022 Asian Games has announced the sale of its first NFT collection. Fast facts Organizers of the games, set to take place in September 2022 in Hangzhou, the capital city of the eastern province of Zhejiang, announced in a social […]
![Solana crashes, SOL prices tumble as network scrambles to restart 22 Solana](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/SolanaCrashPic-1260x709.jpg)
Solana crashes, SOL prices tumble as network scrambles to restart
SOL had been on a tear but is now losing ground. Is Solana a victim of its own success — or does the network have deeper problems?
![Bank of China, DBS and HSBC partner with GSBN on digitizing trade finance 23 GSBN MOU signing](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/GSBN-MOU-1260x840.jpg)
Bank of China, DBS and HSBC partner with GSBN on digitizing trade finance
Three banks — the Bank of China, Singapore’s DBS and HSBC — have partnered with the Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN), a Hong Kong-based non-profit consortium that recently launched a blockchain-based trade platform, to form a trade finance advisory group, according to a media release shared with Forkast.News today. Fast facts Trade finance — the […]
![Reserve Bank of Australia posts CBDC job position 24 RBA](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/RBA-1260x805.jpg)
Reserve Bank of Australia posts CBDC job position
Amid the country’s ongoing Senate inquiry into crypto regulation, the Reserve Bank of Australia has posted a job advertisement for a position within its central bank digital currency research team. Fast facts A successful applicant would join a new cross-disciplinary team to research “whether there is a case for a CBDC in Australia, and if […]
![Laos backpedals on crypto ban, looks to trading, mining pilot program 25 Laos backpedals on crypto ban, looks to introduce positive regulation](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/pexels-rodnae-productions-8369770-1260x840.jpg)
Laos backpedals on crypto ban, looks to trading, mining pilot program
The government of Laos has authorized six firms to trade and mine cryptocurrencies, ending a ban imposed in 2018, according to a recent notice from the prime minister’s office. Fast facts Laos had implemented a complete ban on cryptocurrencies three years ago, including on trading and mining activities. As recently as last month, the country’s […]
![South Korean exchanges close cash-to-crypto trading services as new rules loom 26 Golden bitcoins and South Korea flag. | South Korean crypto exchanges shut down cash-to-crypto markets under harsh regulations](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/golden-bitcoins-and-south-korea-flag-PNHDMAM-2-1260x840.jpg)
South Korean exchanges close cash-to-crypto trading services as new rules loom
Mid-sized crypto exchange Foblgate announced the closure of its Korean won (KRW) trading functions in advance of a government mandate banning digital asset platforms from operating cash-to-crypto services without a local bank partnership. Fast facts Foblgate announced it is temporarily suspending its KRW withdrawal, deposit and trading market between cryptocurrencies and the Korean won. Instead, […]
![The world's largest corporate Bitcoin holder goes even bigger 27 Microstrategy buys another 5,050 Bitcoins for US$242.9M](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Screenshot-2021-09-15-at-11.34.42-1260x711.png)
The world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder goes even bigger
Software firm MicroStrategy, the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder, purchased an additional 5,050 Bitcoins for US$242.9 million at an average price of US$48,099 per Bitcoin. Fast facts Bitcoin was trading 3% lower on Monday, the day of the purchase, at around US$44, 800. The purchase puts MicroStrategy’s total Bitcoin holdings at 114,042 Bitcoins acquired for around […]
![South Korea’s crypto 'death note' updated; 7 more exchanges to survive 28 Golden bitcoins and South Korea flag. | South Korea updates crypto 'death note', says seven more will survive.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/golden-bitcoins-and-south-korea-flag-P9WDP8A-2-1260x840.jpg)
South Korea’s crypto ‘death note’ updated; 7 more exchanges to survive
Financial authorities reveal an updated list of virtual asset platforms that have complied with new regulations.
![China’s largest brokerage says the metaverse will be popularized in two decades 29 a man with vr device, China’s largest brokerage said the metaverse would be popularized in two decades](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/side-view-man-in-vr-headset-L2J5BCW-1260x840.jpg)
China’s largest brokerage says the metaverse will be popularized in two decades
China’s largest brokerage firm, CITIC Securities, said in a research report the metaverse will enter an exploration stage in the next three to five years and could become a way of life in 20 years. Fast facts The report said the development of the metaverse can be divided into three stages. The first stage will be completed […]
![Huobi Ventures bets on DeFi and gaming in $10M GameFi fund 30 Person playing games on a computer](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/gaming-1260x709.jpg)
Huobi Ventures bets on DeFi and gaming in $10M GameFi fund
Huobi Ventures, the investment arm of cryptocurrency exchange Huobi, today announced the launch of a US$10 million “GameFi” fund to invest in early-stage projects that integrate blockchain gaming and decentralized finance (DeFi). Fast facts Huobi’s new GameFi fund follows the launch of its US$100 million DeFi fund in May and comes amid increasing mainstream interest […]
![China’s e-CNY soft rollout continues, while Moody’s frowns at use of CBDCs in cross-border payments 31 RMB](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/RMB.png)
China’s e-CNY soft rollout continues, while Moody’s frowns at use of CBDCs in cross-border payments
A tourist spot in South China’s Hainan province to hand out digital yuan, while Shenzhen tests adoption for Hong Kong residents.
![China’s Hebei and Gansu provinces to phase out crypto mining 32 Bitcoin mining](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Bitcoin-mining.png)
China’s Hebei and Gansu provinces to phase out crypto mining
More provinces in China are putting new limits on the cryptocurrency mining sector, as the country works toward its carbon neutrality goals and concerns over cryptocurrency trading loom. Fast facts Authorities in North China’s Hebei province today issued a notice to crack down on cryptocurrency mining and trading activities, saying that crypto mining consumes huge […]
![Walmart, FTX and Animoca Brands hit by crypto misinformation 33 HONGKONG](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/HONGKONG3-1260x709.jpg)
Walmart, FTX and Animoca Brands hit by crypto misinformation
Scams and fake news have long dogged the crypto world. This week saw two major blockchain companies and a global retailer get swept up by hack rumors or hoaxes.
![Mets owner, hedge fund mogul Steve Cohen backs NFT platform Recur 34 New York Mets owner Steve Cohen backs NFT platform Recur](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Screenshot-2021-09-14-at-17.37.51-1.png)
Mets owner, hedge fund mogul Steve Cohen backs NFT platform Recur
Florida-based non-fungible token (NFT) platform Recur announced it has received backing from Steve Cohen, owner of Major League Baseball’s New York Mets, in its US$50 million series A funding round. Fast facts The financing round, which valued Recur at a US$333 million post-money valuation, was led by Digital, a metaverse investment platform backed by Cohen’s […]
![China-run media outlet criticizes NFT platform as a payment risk 35 UMX.ART NFT](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/UMX.ART_.png)
China-run media outlet criticizes NFT platform as a payment risk
In the latest response to a growing interest in non-fungible tokens, Beijing Business Today faults an art marketplace.
![Ernst & Young teams up with Polygon on Ethereum scaling 36 Ernst & Young integrates Polygon for Ethereum scaling solutions](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Screenshot-2021-09-14-at-13.22.42-1260x703.png)
Ernst & Young teams up with Polygon on Ethereum scaling
Ernst & Young, one of the Big Four consulting multinationals, announced today it has integrated India-based Polygon, a Layer 2 Ethereum scaling solution, to allow its corporate clients to process blockchain-based transactions on the Ethereum mainnet. Fast facts EY has connected the public Polygon commit chain with EY’s blockchain services including EY OpsChain and EY […]
![SEC chair reiterates call for crypto platforms to 'come in and talk to us' 37 SEC Chair Gary Gensler](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/GettyImages-93181663-1260x833.jpg)
SEC chair reiterates call for crypto platforms to ‘come in and talk to us’
Ahead of the U.S. Banking Committee’s hearing on the “Oversight of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission” today, SEC Chairman Gary Gensler reiterated his call for crypto platforms and projects that have securities to register with the agency. Fast facts In prepared remarks, Gensler emphasized the concerns he sees over the lack of investor protection […]
![Solana funds attract strong inflows of $50M despite crypto market correction last week 38 CoinShares' crypto market fund flows](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/20210913-digital-fund-flows-1260x847.jpg)
Solana funds attract strong inflows of $50M despite crypto market correction last week
Institutional investors continued to buy into Solana investment products despite the market correction last week, according to a report by digital asset manager CoinShares. Fast facts Solana prices, which have soared by over 13,000% this year, reached an all-time high of US$213.47 on Sept. 9, according to CoinGecko data. Solana briefly overtook XRP to become […]
![The cryptocurrency industry’s liquidity issues — and an effort to solve them 39 Don Guo, co-founder and CEO of Broctagon Fintech Group](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Don-Guo-1260x709.jpg)
The cryptocurrency industry’s liquidity issues — and an effort to solve them
Broctagon Fintech Group is launching what it hopes will become a new global standard for cryptocurrency exchanges to reduce price discrepancies. Will it work?
![CrossTower says it wants to collaborate, not compete, with Indian exchanges 40 Bitcoin, CrossTower says it wants to collaborate, not compete, with Indian exchanges](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/new-crypto-currency-WV2X9FC-1260x840.jpg)
CrossTower says it wants to collaborate, not compete, with Indian exchanges
CrossTower became the second international crypto exchange to enter the Indian market last week after Binance made its entry by acquiring WazirX in 2019.
![China state mouthpiece criticizes NFT mania 41 NFT concept,China state mouthpiece criticizes on NFT Frenzy](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/微信截图_20210913191757-1260x709.png)
China state mouthpiece criticizes NFT mania
A sister paper of the People’s Daily, Securities Times, published an opinion piece to criticize non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as hype and suggested the digital assets should serve the real economy by tokenizing actual assets. Fast facts The article offers as an example Justin Sun’s NFT purchase of a digital avatar for US$10.5 million and the […]
![Miss Universe Thailand, NFTs join in world first 42 Miss Universe Thailand to include NFTs in a world first](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Screenshot-2021-09-13-at-15.31.50-1260x689.png)
Miss Universe Thailand, NFTs join in world first
The Miss Universe Thailand 2021 pageant has partnered with Bangkok-based crypto exchange Bitkub to feature non-fungible tokens (NFTs) as part of the competition, Bitkub announced. Bitkub claims the event will mark the first NFT beauty pageant. Fast facts Bitkub will mint NFT collectible cards of the pageant contestants. The company also will provide participants with […]
![Altcoins have their day in the sun as market pulls back 43 Feature Image Alt 1](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Feature-Image_Alt-1-1260x709.jpg)
Altcoins have their day in the sun as market pulls back
A few altcoins managed to stand out coming into the working week as Solana’s tear comes to an end.
![What are smart contracts and what are they used for? 44 Blockchain, smart contract explainer](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/blockchain-technology-concept-PEHGTVU-1-1260x735.jpg)
What are smart contracts and what are they used for?
In this Forkast.News explainer, learn why blockchains with smart contract capability are surging in popularity and the new darlings of investors.
![China’s central bank reports progress, challenges on e-CNY adoption 45 CNY, China's e-cny adoption progress](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/CNY.png)
China’s central bank reports progress, challenges on e-CNY adoption
PBOC still working out regulatory rules, acceptance environments and payment systems.
![Iran closes down more unauthorized crypto mining farms: reports 46 Iran flag](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Iran-flag.jpg)
Iran closes down more unauthorized crypto mining farms: reports
Iran, which imposed a temporary ban on Bitcoin mining a few months ago, continues to crack down on illegal crypto mining operations, closing down thousands of unauthorized mining facilities, according to local media reports. Fast facts The Iran Power Generation, Distribution and Transmission Company, also known as Tavanir, told the state-run ISNA that it had […]
![Alibaba's Tmall sells out mooncake NFTs 47 mooncake NFT](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/mooncake-NFT.png)
Alibaba’s Tmall sells out mooncake NFTs
Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba is sparing no efforts in riding the non-fungible token (NFT) wave, with its online retailer Tmall selling out a new collection of NFTs featuring mooncakes — a signature snack made to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival that falls on Sept. 21 this year. Fast facts Tmall has issued “mooncake NFTs” built with […]
![CoinSwitch Kuber says it's now the largest Indian exchange with over 10 million customers 48 CoinSwitch Kuber becomes largest Indian exchange with over 10 million customers](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Screenshot-2021-09-13-at-14.19.29-1260x707.png)
CoinSwitch Kuber says it’s now the largest Indian exchange with over 10 million customers
The platform reports more users than WazirX and CoinDCX, and aims to make crypto trading as easy as ordering food online.
![What crypto can learn from Apple’s smooth interface to computing 49 User interaction design,](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/top-view-of-gadgets-near-website-design-template-a-E8CHRTR-1260x841.jpg)
What crypto can learn from Apple’s smooth interface to computing
Crypto in 2021 is like the early days of the internet, writes Hisham Khan of Aldrin. Here’s why the quality of user experience will decide the industry’s future.
![Hangzhou launches China’s first intellectual property blockchain certification platform 50 The front page of the Intellectual Property Blockchain Certification Platform](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/_20210910181312-e1631268845680-1260x655.png)
Hangzhou launches China’s first intellectual property blockchain certification platform
In another example of harnessing blockchain technology in the legal world, the Zhejiang Patent Office launched China’s first intellectual property blockchain certification platform on Thursday in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province’s capital city. Fast facts The platform provides users with a blockchain certification after they upload pictures or description documents of their original creation, such as art […]
![Mastercard acquires crypto investigation firm to boost security 51 Logo of mastercard and CipherTrace](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/新建-Microsoft-PowerPoint-演示文稿-1260x709.jpg)
Mastercard acquires crypto investigation firm to boost security
Payments giant Mastercard announced it is extending its reach into the realm of cryptocurrency with the acquisition of CipherTrace, a blockchain analytics startup, for “greater security, transparency and trust to digital assets across the ecosystem.” Fast facts CipherTrace, which calls itself the world’s first blockchain forensics team, provides cryptocurrency tracking and investigation services. It launched an […]
![Cardano set for Alonzo launch, smart contracts and NFTs to come 52 Cardano](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/2-1260x709.jpg)
Cardano set for Alonzo launch, smart contracts and NFTs to come
Cardano’s Alonzo hard fork will bring smart contracts and NFT support to the world’s third-largest blockchain. What will it mean for the crypto market?
![Australian banks defend decision to shun business with crypto providers 53 WEstpac](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/FF_Westpac-1260x840.jpg)
Australian banks defend decision to shun business with crypto providers
Two of Australia’s “Big Four” banks — National Australia Bank and Westpac — have hit back at criticism they are suppressing competition by refusing to do business with cryptocurrency providers in the country, according to a report. Fast facts While neither of the banks have formal policies excluding crypto businesses, NAB chief executive Ross McEwan […]
![International crypto money launderer who worked with N. Korean hackers gets 11 years 54 U.S. sentences money and crypto launderer to 11 years in prison](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/pexels-david-mcbee-730564-1260x945.jpg)
International crypto money launderer who worked with N. Korean hackers gets 11 years
A Canadian-American citizen, who laundered tens of millions of dollars for cybercriminals including North Korea’s military intelligence agency hackers, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison, the U.S. Department of Justice announced. Fast facts Ghaleb Alaumary, 36, pleaded guilty to money laundering in 2020 and has been asked to pay US$30 million in restitution […]
![‘Pororo the Little Penguin’ NFTs and metaverse theme park underway 55 The Sandbox's NFT renditions of Pororo the Little Penguin characters | ‘Pororo the Little Penguin’ NFTs and metaverse theme park underway](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/0_oY2_xZTCvcD_ykmn-1260x709.png)
‘Pororo the Little Penguin’ NFTs and metaverse theme park underway
The Sandbox, Animoca Brand’s subsidiary for decentralized virtual gaming, announces partnership with animation studio in Korea.
![Crypto.com inks another sports sponsorship deal with football club Paris Saint-Germain 56 Paris Saint-Germain football club first team](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/PSG-first-team-1260x630.jpg)
Crypto.com inks another sports sponsorship deal with football club Paris Saint-Germain
Football giant Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) today announced a multi-year partnership agreement with Hong Kong-based cryptocurrency exchange Crypto.com that will see the exchange become the Parisian club’s official cryptocurrency platform partner. Fast facts PSG competes in Ligue 1, the top division of French football, and its star-studded team includes forwards Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Neymar. […]
![Singapore’s cult-favorite premium collectibles maker XM Studios finances expansion plans through tokenization 57 XM Studios CEO Ben Ang and ADDX CCO Oi Yee Choo, with XM's premium collectible statue Batman Shogun, from the Batman Samurai Line.](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ADDX-Tokenises-XM-Studios-Investment-XM-Studios-CEO-Ben-Ang-and-ADDX-CCO-Oi-Yee-Choo-1260x997.jpg)
Singapore’s cult-favorite premium collectibles maker XM Studios finances expansion plans through tokenization
Design studio that makes hand-crafted statues for global brands such as Marvel, DC Comics and Hasbro plans to expand into new product categories, markets and NFTs.
![What does El Salvador’s new Bitcoin law mean for crypto markets? 58 El Salvador flag](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/el-salvador-flag-is-depicted-on-a-sports-cloth-fab-Q3LPGFZ-1260x835.jpg)
What does El Salvador’s new Bitcoin law mean for crypto markets?
El Salvador’s Bitcoin embrace may be a domino for some emerging markets, but a fierce rival to the BTC is also coming to the fore.
![Why Algorand's price is on a two-year high right now 59 Algorand blockchain](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Algorand-1260x709.jpg)
Why Algorand’s price is on a two-year high right now
Algorand’s ALGO cryptocurrency prices have surged by 90% over the past seven days, crossing the US$2 mark and hit a two-year high of US$2.44 today, according to CoinGecko data. ALGO, ranked the 17th largest cryptocurrency by market value, has not seen such price heights since its launch in 2019. Fast facts Algorand is an open-source, […]
![Global shipping network's new blockchain platform for international trade goes live 60 shipping container terminal](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/container-terminal-1260x839.jpg)
Global shipping network’s new blockchain platform for international trade goes live
Hong Kong-based Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN), a nonprofit consortium whose members handle one-third of all the shipping containers in the world, announced yesterday that its new blockchain platform for global trade has officially gone live. The platform, built in partnership with Oracle, Microsoft, AntChain and Alibaba Cloud, aims to accelerate digital transformation in the […]
![South Korean exchanges facing closure may seek legal action to halt new regulations 61 South Korea flag waving against cloudy sky | South Korean exchanges in deadlock may seek legal action](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/south-korea-flag-waving-against-cloudy-sky-DVGMXHR-1-1260x548.jpg)
South Korean exchanges facing closure may seek legal action to halt new regulations
At the risk of losing billions, crypto industry officials weigh options to oppose authorities.
![C.R.E.A.M. Finance integrates 6 NFT tokens as part of DeFi bridge strategy 62 CREAMNFTs](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/CREAMNFTs-1260x709.jpg)
C.R.E.A.M. Finance integrates 6 NFT tokens as part of DeFi bridge strategy
C.R.E.A.M. Finance, a Taipei-based decentralized finance (DeFi) lending platform, on Sept. 8 announced its support of six metaverse and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) that will allow users to borrow and lend against the assets. Fast facts NFTs, unique digital assets whose authenticity and ownership are tracked on a blockchain, have seen exponential growth over the past […]
![Mark Cuban to Coinbase: 'Go on the offensive' against SEC over high-yield product 63 Mark Cuban asks Coinbase to play offense against SEC over lending product dispute](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/GettyImages-1052424570-1260x840.jpg)
Mark Cuban to Coinbase: ‘Go on the offensive’ against SEC over high-yield product
Billionaire investor Mark Cuban says Coinbase should “go on the offensive” against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in its feud over high-yield savings account Lend. Brad Garlinghouse, CEO of Ripple — which is itself embroiled in ongoing litigation with the SEC — quipped “Welcome to the party” in a GIF tweet. Fast facts In […]
![Crypto mining rig giant Bitmain to supply 56K miners to U.S. partners 64 crypto mining](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Bitmain-NA.png)
Crypto mining rig giant Bitmain to supply 56K miners to U.S. partners
China-based Bitmain, one of the world’s biggest producers of cryptocurrency mining rigs, has sealed a deal with its United States partners — ISW Holdings and Bit5ive — to expand its operation in America. Fast facts ISW Holdings, a Nevada-based portfolio company with extensive crypto mining operations, will host 56,000 Bitmain mining rigs and pair them […]
![SEC pushes back on Ripple’s legal questions over XRP 65 Bitcoin, Ethereum Ether and XRP](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/XRP-1260x709.jpg)
SEC pushes back on Ripple’s legal questions over XRP
Ripple wants to know how SEC regards Bitcoin, Ether and XRP, but SEC says Ripple is repeating the same questions as ‘they do not like the answers they received.’
![Former Hong Kong news site issues NFTs to preserve history 66 Initium Media NFTs](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Initium-opensea.png)
Former Hong Kong news site issues NFTs to preserve history
Initium Media, also known as 端傳媒, is turning to blockchain technology to grow revenue and to ensure controversial news does not get forgotten — or tampered with.
![Solana launches into sixth place as price tear continues 67 Solana](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/FF_Solana3.png)
Solana launches into sixth place as price tear continues
As most of the market saw a 10% to 15% dip in the past 48 hours, Solana (SOL) has defied that trend, crossing the US$200 mark for the first time and becoming the new sixth-largest coin by market cap a few hours ago, according to data from CoinMarketCap.com. Fast facts SOL was trading at US$205.27 […]
![Bitcoin miner Blockstream partners with Macquarie for zero-carbon project 68 BTC Mining](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/FF_Macquarie-1260x840.jpg)
Bitcoin miner Blockstream partners with Macquarie for zero-carbon project
As the debate over cryptocurrency’s carbon footprint rages on, leading bitcoin miner Blockstream is developing new zero-carbon Bitcoin mining facilities in partnership with Australia-based financial services giant Macquarie Group, according to a company blog post. Fast facts The first pilot site will be in the U.S. where Blockstream will leverage Macquarie’s experience in green investments […]
![El Salvador wowed the world by adopting Bitcoin as legal tender. Other countries are taking note 69 Bitcoin, El Salvador wowed the world by adopting Bitcoin as legal tender. Other countries are taking note](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/GettyImages-1320843284-1260x837.jpg)
El Salvador wowed the world by adopting Bitcoin as legal tender. Other countries are taking note
Following crypto’s adoption in one struggling economy, nations in Latin America and elsewhere are now weighing the pros and cons of digital currency
![Polkadot's decentralized identity project KILT wins Kusama parachain auction 70 Kusama and KILT Protocol](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Kusama-and-KILT-Protocol-1260x709.jpg)
Polkadot’s decentralized identity project KILT wins Kusama parachain auction
KILT Protocol, an open-source blockchain protocol for issuing self-sovereign, anonymous and verifiable credentials, has won the sixth Kusama parachain auction and has launched its mainnet, the project announced yesterday. Kusama is Polkadot’s canary network for blockchain developers to build and test out their code as well as products and services. Fast facts KILT Protocol had […]
![Riding the NFT trend: questions to consider before investing in these hot digital assets 71 NFTs of Pudgy Penguins, CryptoPunk, Loot (for Adventurers)](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/NFT-1260x709.jpg)
Riding the NFT trend: questions to consider before investing in these hot digital assets
As non-fungible tokens break into the mainstream, experts advise buyers to do research and watch for a correction.
![Chinese game company's stock price soars after announcing metaverse game 72 a player using a vr headset, A Chinese game company's stock price soared to daily limits for announcing a Metaverse game](https://forkast.news/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/pro-cyber-sport-gamer-relaxing-playing-video-games-XF457M9-1260x709.jpg)
Chinese game company’s stock price soars after announcing metaverse game
A Chinese game company, Zhong Qing Bao, announced a metaverse game, and its stock rose considerably this week for two days in a row. Fast facts The game’s name is Brew Master, a game that lets players pretend to be winemakers and trade the wines that they make as NFTs. Two days after the game […]