Articles by
Timmy Shen
Timmy Shen is a Taipei-based journalist at Forkast. Previously, he wrote for Caixin Global and TechNode, covering topics ranging from fintech to fan economy. He also cares about LGBT+ issues and is a shabu shabu fanatic. Timmy holds an MS degree from Columbia Journalism School.
September 2021
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-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.
China’s central bank reports progress, challenges on e-CNY adoption
PBOC still working out regulatory rules, acceptance environments and payment systems.
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.
Hacked DeFi platform pledges to replace stolen crypto to users
C.R.E.A.M. Finance suffered a flash loan exploit that was much larger than earlier estimates
Genesis Digital Assets signs deal for 20K mining machines to fuel growth in North America, Nordic region
The order follows a June purchase by Genesis of 10K machines from China-based Canaan, one of the world’s biggest Bitcoin mining rig makers
China’s state-backed blockchain network to expand to South Korea
As its first international expansion, China’s Blockchain-based Service Network is launching a portal in Korea. Who are the key players, and where else in the world will BSN emerge this year?
How blockchain technology is shaking up courtrooms in Asia
Blockchain is helping with cross-examinations in China while bolstering chain of custody for evidence in Taiwan. Is Asia ahead of the technological legal curve?
September 2021
Three state-owned banks in China release e-CNY usage data
Tens of billions in digital yuan circulate through the banks’ systems, as leaders encourage wider adoption.
Taiwan Semiconductor chip price increase on the way
Amid global supply shortage, the move could impact clients such as mining rig maker Bitmain, which sources TSMC’s wafers for its Antminer S19 series.
Court in China says trading in cryptocurrency ‘not protected by law’
The ruling by Shandong’s High Court backs up China’s official stance against trading in cryptocurrencies. What does this mean for investors?
Bitcoin miners may soon face tougher digging
As the crypto hashrate continues to recover, miners will likely have to work harder for their coins.
Digital yuan trials now looking like a ‘soft launch’ stage
China’s high penetration of smartphones, digital-savvy population helps reduce e-CNY testing time, observers say
Taiwanese startup XREX raises $17 million to advance crypto payment services
XREX’s fundraise reflects Taiwan’s ambition to be part of fintech and blockchain innovation in spite of the island’s strict banking regulations.
As China cracks down on crypto, blockchain technology keeps flowering
Steelmaker Ansteel Group and lithium battery producer Tianneng are the latest companies to make use of blockchain in accordance with China’s national strategy.
BIT Mining revenue soars despite losses from operational pivot
Operating costs and crypto bear market suck up cash after former lottery operator bets on digital assets
Alibaba launches new auction service as it doubles down on NFTs
Accessibility of Alibaba Auction through Tencent’s WeChat service hints at closer relationship between two longtime rivals.
AppWorks raises US$150M as it trains its sights on Southeast Asia
Taiwanese VC firm attracts big investors as it bets on future of region and staying-power of NFTs.
China’s mining exodus flows to U.S. Is Texas the new promised land?
Poolin, a major mining pool in China, has set sail for America. ‘Large players are all over the U.S. now looking for deals.’
NFTs and the music industry: K-pop’s new token economy | Part 2
K-pop superstars Brave Girls, Se7en and A.C.E. are among the latest to jump on the non-fungible token bandwagon. Are fans buying it?
Latest digital yuan trial launches with backing of JD.com, Bank of Communications
E-commerce company’s tie-up with government-owned lender suggests hybrid private-state future for central bank digital currency.
Canaan grows crypto rig sales as Chinese miners tool up abroad
North America emerges as hardware demand hotspot amid Beijing’s regulatory onslaught against cryptocurrency sector.
Chinese central bank shows no sign of softening stance on crypto
People’s Bank of China vows to keep sector under ‘heavy pressure’ as it pushes digital yuan.
August 2021
Is Bitcoin mining hot again? These crypto insiders think so
Despite China’s crackdowns on Bitcoin mining and growing consternation about crypto mining’s carbon footprint, some miners are betting big on a rosy future.
Robinhood readies IPO as risks cast shadow over future earnings potential
The fee-free trading platform’s initial public offering promises plenty of action for retail investors, but pitfalls may lie in wait amid trading volatility and wider adoption of business model.
Huobi’s stock plunges in Hong Kong as it shuts Beijing unit
Closure of blockchain business may be related to regulatory concerns, but unlikely to hit crypto industry hard, observers say.
Thai crypto miner found dead after suspected electronics accident
Case could be first fatality associated with mining, although hot-running equipment has history of starting fires.
Crypto miner ships China-based rigs abroad in deal with U.S. fossil fuels firm
Optimum Mining Host-Black Rock Petroleum plan comes as Canaan seeks greener operations through Czech partnership.
Russia looks to tap demand for power as crypto miners flood out of China
Plentiful electricity, cold climate are among drawcards as Chinese mine operators flee crackdown at home.
China’s digital yuan moves a step closer with smart-contract technology
Central bank in apparent push for adoption ahead of Olympics as it doubles up on warning over non-state cryptocurrencies.
Malaysian police are crushing it in illegal Bitcoin mining crackdown
In viral video, Borneo police use a giant steamroller to destroy 1,069 crypto mining rigs that had been caught running on stolen electricity.