The last days of May 2025 marked a turning point for digital assets.
In Las Vegas, the Bitcoin Conference gathered political leaders and corporations pushing Bitcoin into national reserves and retail adoption.
Meanwhile, Trump Media raised $2.5 billion to buy BTC, GameStop created a Bitcoin treasury, and Santander explored launching a dual-currency stablecoin.
In Washington, the U.S. legalized crypto in 401(k) plans and declared Trump-era tariffs illegal — moves that rippled through markets.
Add to that, a record number of BTC transactions in one day, the SEC’s review of the first XRP ETF, and a memecoin explosion driven by viral toys, and one thing is clear: crypto is no longer a sideshow — it’s part of the global agenda.
Let’s break down the events that are redefining who controls money, how it moves — and what comes next on the crypto market.
Bitcoin Conference 2025: Politics, Corporations, and the Future of BTC Taking Center Stage
Source: Eventbrite
The Bitcoin Conference 2025, held from May 27 to 29 at The Venetian in Las Vegas, gathered over 35,000 attendees and 400 speakers, reaffirming its status as the world’s largest event dedicated to Bitcoin.
This year’s edition underscored the growing intersection of cryptocurrency and politics, featuring major announcements that could shape the future of digital finance.
Key Highlights from the Bitcoin Conference 2025
1. Political Support for Bitcoin
U.S. Vice President JD Vance introduced the proposed GENIUS Act, aimed at establishing a regulatory framework for stablecoins. He also announced plans for a U.S. strategic Bitcoin reserve and criticized past regulations for “stifling innovation.”
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, proposed a “crypto revolution” in the UK, including a reduction of capital gains tax on digital assets to 10% and the creation of a BTC reserve at the Bank of England. His party also became the first in the UK to accept crypto donations.
2. Trump Family Participation
Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump reaffirmed their family’s support for the crypto sector, advocating for a Bitcoin treasury and increased investment in crypto mining.
Trump Media & Technology announced plans to invest $2.5 billion in Bitcoin, further strengthening the institutional role of the asset.
3. Notable Announcements and Speakers at the Bitcoin Conference 2025
Michael Saylor (MicroStrategy) delivered the keynote “21 Ways to Get Rich,” reinforcing Bitcoin as a tool for financial freedom and hinting at new BTC-backed products.
Ross Ulbricht*, recently released from prison after serving over a decade for his role in operating Silk Road, made a rare public appearance advocating for decentralization, privacy, and individual liberty within the Bitcoin ecosystem.
* Ross Ulbricht, founder of the Silk Road darknet marketplace, was sentenced to life in 2015 for drug trafficking, money laundering, and cybercrimes. After years of advocacy, he was recently released through a presidential pardon granted by Donald Trump.
Block (formerly Square) announced BTC payment integration into its retail platform, with rollout expected in 2026.
4. Market Trend During the Bitcoin Conference 2025
During the conference, Bitcoin’s price dropped 2.2%, trading around $107,800. Analysts attribute the decline to investor caution amid global economic uncertainty and anticipation of corporate earnings, particularly from Nvidia.
Bitcoin Breaks World Record for Daily Transactions at Bitcoin Conference 2025
On May 28, 2025, in Las Vegas during the Bitcoin Conference 2025, Bitcoin reached a new historic milestone: the world record for the highest number of payments made in a single day using the cryptocurrency.
A total of 4,001 point-of-sale (PoS) transactions were recorded in just 8 hours — surpassing all previous attempts and reinforcing Bitcoin’s potential as a practical payment method in everyday life.
To facilitate the payments, organizers distributed 4,000 “Bolt Cards” — physical cards enabled for instant payments via the Bitcoin Lightning Network, a second-layer solution.
A New Era for Bitcoin
The 2025 Bitcoin Conference edition marked a turning point for Bitcoin. With open political endorsements, billion-dollar corporate interest, and regulatory debates at the forefront, Bitcoin is no longer a fringe asset — it’s now central to the global conversation about the future of money.
Visit the official site for more insights and videos from the conference: b.tc/conference/2025.
Litecoin Summit 2025: The Key Highlights From the Event
Source: Eventbrite
The Litecoin Summit 2025, hosted at Harrah’s Resort in Las Vegas, marked a major leap for the Litecoin ecosystem. The decision to schedule the event immediately after the Bitcoin Conference 2025, which took place from May 27–29 at The Venetian, was no coincidence.
This strategic move allowed attendees to participate in both events during the same week, making it easier for enthusiasts and professionals interested in both cryptocurrencies to be present.
Over two packed days, developers, investors, and blockchain leaders gathered to witness Litecoin’s most transformative updates to date — from entering the smart contracts arena to ETF speculations and strategic integrations with platforms like Polygon.
Here are the key highlights from the event:
LitVM Launch: Litecoin’s Zero-Knowledge Layer-2 for Smart Contracts
The biggest reveal was the launch of LitVM — Litecoin’s first EVM-compatible Layer-2 network, built using BitcoinOS and Polygon’s Chain Development Kit (CDK). Developed by Lunar Digital Assets, LitVM brings smart contract capabilities to Litecoin, enabling:
- Cross-chain liquidity between Litecoin and Ethereum
- Deployment of dApps on Litecoin for the first time
- Seamless interaction with DeFi protocols
LitVM places Litecoin among Ethereum, Bitcoin, and other major chains exploring scalability through zk-rollups and Layer-2 solutions.
“LitVM makes Litecoin a smart contract-enabled chain without compromising on speed or security,” said project engineers at the summit.
Charlie Lee’s Keynote: Litecoin as the People’s Currency
Litecoin creator Charlie Lee opened the event by reiterating Litecoin’s original mission — being a fast, cheap, and decentralized digital currency for everyone. His keynote emphasized:
- Litecoin’s low transaction fees
- Strong community culture
- Support for financial inclusion
“We’ve never been about hype. Litecoin has always focused on accessibility, fairness, and function,” said Lee.
This vision aligns with platforms like Klever Wallet, which already embraces Litecoin as a practical payment method. Users on both Android and iOS can easily send and receive LTC using QR codes or direct address transfers, making it accessible and efficient for everyday use.
Litecoin ETF Expected by October 2025
Another major highlight came from Grayscale’s John Hoffman, who confirmed that a Litecoin ETF approval could arrive by October 10, 2025. He cited:
- Positive engagement with the SEC
- Favorable precedent following Bitcoin ETF approvals
- The current 6% discount on LTCN (Grayscale’s Litecoin Trust), suggesting arbitrage potential post-ETF
This would mark a historic shift, potentially opening the door to institutional Litecoin adoption.
Ecosystem Expansion: Possible Integration with Polygon’s AggLayer
During the Litecoin Summit, a cryptic tweet from Polygon co-founder Sandeep Nailwal hinted at an AggLayer integration with Litecoin. While not officially confirmed, this move would enhance Litecoin’s scalability and interoperability with major DeFi ecosystems.
Such partnerships could:
- Increase on-chain activity
- Improve Litecoin’s relevance in cross-chain finance
- Attract new developer interest
Additional Highlights and Speakers at the Litecoin Summit 2025
- María Laura Tardivo (BitcoinOS): Talked about zk-smart contracts and scalability.
- James Seyffart (Bloomberg): Gave insights into ETF market dynamics.
- Panel on Women in Web3: Reinforced diversity and inclusion in blockchain leadership.
Litecoin Steps into the Future
The Litecoin Summit 2025 confirmed that Litecoin is no longer just a payment coin — it’s evolving into a smart, scalable, and interoperable platform.
With LitVM enabling smart contracts, a potential Litecoin ETF on the horizon, and partnerships pointing toward cross-chain liquidity, Litecoin is building for the next decade of blockchain utility.
Trump Media Invests $2.5 Billion in Bitcoin
Source: Money Times
Trump Media & Technology Group (NASDAQ: DJT), the company behind the Truth Social platform, has announced a massive move into the cryptocurrency sector: a $2.5 billion capital raise aimed at acquiring Bitcoin and expanding into financial products.
The primary goal of the capital raise is to buy Bitcoin and develop financial products tailored to retail investors. Crypto custody will be handled by Anchorage Digital and Crypto.com, two well-known players in the industry.
Before this announcement, Trump Media already held $759 million in liquid assets. However, following the news, DJT shares dropped 6% in early trading—signaling cautious market sentiment about the new strategy.
How is the Bitcoin Investment Structured?
The $2.5 billion raise will be divided into two components:
- $1.5 billion via a market-priced share offering
- $1 billion through convertible bonds, issued at a 35% premium to the share price
The acquired Bitcoin will be classified as strategic assets on the company’s balance sheet, alongside its cash holdings and short-term investments.
“America First” Strategy and Financial Product Expansion
Devin Nunes, CEO of Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG) described the move as part of a long-term strategy to position Trump Media as both a media and financial platform aligned with American conservative values.
“Bitcoin represents financial freedom. This investment is 100% aligned with our ‘America First’ principles,” said Nunes.
The company has also signed a binding agreement to launch financial products, including crypto ETFs and retail investment tools—all modeled after former President Donald Trump’s economic agenda.
Cautious Market Response and Regulatory Scrutiny
Despite the bold scope of the initiative, the market reacted with caution to Trump Media’s pivot into crypto:
- DJT stock fell 6% shortly after the announcement, reflecting investor uncertainty about the shift in strategy
- Senator Elizabeth Warren voiced concerns over regulatory oversight and transparency surrounding the proposed financial products
The Trump Crypto Empire Expands into Web3 Ambitions
This latest move further deepens the Trump family’s involvement in crypto, which already includes:
- NFTs and digital collectibles
- Memecoins inspired by Trump’s image
- Bitcoin mining ventures
- A crypto exchange platform
Trump Media’s aggressive entry into Bitcoin and crypto products marks a bold intersection of conservative politics and crypto finance.
The real question now is: how will the market respond over time—and how closely will regulators watch?
U.S. Declares Trump-Era Tariffs Illegal and Tensions with China Rise After New Accusation
Source: The New York Times
The trade landscape between the United States and China returned to the spotlight following two major developments at the end of May 2025.
First, the U.S. Court of International Trade ruled that the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were illegal.
The next day, Trump reignited tensions by publicly accusing China of violating a recent tariff agreement.
U.S. Court Rules Trump-Era Tariffs on Goods Were Illegal
On May 29, the U.S. court ruled that the use of IEEPA to impose broad tariffs on imports — particularly from countries like China, Canada, and Mexico — exceeded the legal limits of presidential authority.
The law, originally designed to address specific national emergencies, was not intended to justify sweeping trade reforms.
This decision deals a significant legal blow to Trump’s core trade strategy, which relied heavily on executive orders and emergency powers to reshape U.S. trade relations. It also sets a precedent that restricts the use of tariff barriers without Congressional approval.
Trump’s Tariffs Impact on Businesses
Companies affected by the U.S. tariffs may now experience cost relief and greater predictability in international trade.
Trump Responds, Accusing China of Breaking Agreement
Just one day after the ruling, Trump escalated matters with a new accusation: China is violating the tariff-reduction agreement signed in May 2025.
According to him, Beijing was disregarding commitments made in Geneva under a deal meant to ease the ongoing trade war.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump claimed China had “completely violated” the agreement’s terms and was acting in bad faith—even after receiving concessions during what he described as a “severe economic crisis.” However, no concrete evidence was presented to support the accusation.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that negotiations with China are now “partially stalled” and may require direct intervention between heads of state to move forward.
Bitcoin Dips After U.S. Court Strikes Down Trump-Era Tariffs
Source: Coinmarketcap
Bitcoin (BTC) saw a slight decline this week following a U.S. court ruling that overturned trade tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.
While the stock market reacted positively to the news, BTC traded with mild volatility around $106.31 by the end of May 29, showing a negative variation of approximately 0.8% at the time of reporting.
Ethereum and other altcoins followed a similar pattern, experiencing moderate price swings.
Why Did Bitcoin Pull Back?
Bitcoin’s retreat can be attributed to three main factors:
- Technical Correction: After a recent rally, some profit-taking led to a modest dip.
- Reduced Perception of Systemic Risk: The reversal of the tariffs was seen as a sign of greater economic stability, which may have temporarily lowered demand for alternative assets like BTC.
- Capital Shift to Equities: With easing tensions in traditional markets, some investors redirected funds from crypto to stocks.
This development highlights how macroeconomic and geopolitical factors — even those not directly related to the crypto space — are playing an increasingly important role in Bitcoin’s price movements.
Key Factors for Crypto Investors to Watch
- Shifts in U.S.–China trade policies
- Economic-impacting court decisions
- Correlations between crypto and traditional risk assets
U.S. Department of Labor Allows Cryptocurrencies in 401(k) Plans
Source: The Bitcoin Historian
On May 28, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) officially revoked its 2022 guidance that had restricted the use of cryptocurrencies in 401(k) retirement plans.
The move marks a major regulatory shift, paving the way for fund managers like Fidelity to offer digital assets directly in retirement portfolios.
What Was the Previous Rule?
During the Biden administration in 2022, the Department of Labor criticized the practice of marketing cryptocurrencies to 401(k) plan participants.
The DOL advised “extreme caution” regarding the inclusion of digital assets, citing concerns about high volatility, lack of clear regulation, and risks of fraud and market manipulation.
This guidance effectively acted as a practical barrier to the adoption of crypto in retirement plans.
What Changes Under the New Policy?
With the reversal of the prior rule, the Trump administration returns autonomy to 401(k) plan fiduciaries. This means:
- No federal ban on including crypto in 401(k) plans
- Fiduciaries are responsible for evaluating the risks and suitability of assets
- Greater freedom for firms like Fidelity and Charles Schwab to expand crypto offerings—such as exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum
Who Stands to Benefit?
1. Younger Investors
With longer investment horizons, younger and more aggressive investors may consider small crypto allocations for diversification.
2. Investment Firms
Platforms already offering crypto—like Fidelity—gain a competitive edge.
3. The Crypto Market
Regulatory openness boosts the legitimacy of digital assets as an institutional investment class.
Risks Still Need Careful Evaluation
Despite the progress, experts warn:
- Crypto remains volatile
- Bitcoin ETFs and crypto funds can experience sharp swings
- Investors nearing retirement should be especially cautious with direct exposure
The DOL’s relaxed stance is a significant step toward bridging traditional finance and digital assets.
However, the decision to include crypto in a 401(k) plan should always be based on your risk profile, time horizon, and financial goals.
Top Tip: If your fund manager starts offering crypto in your 401(k), consult a financial advisor before allocating any portion to Bitcoin or altcoins.
Fed’s Preferred Inflation Gauge Shows 2.5% Rise in April
Source: Investing.com
Core inflation in the United States, as measured by the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index (PCE) — the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge — rose 2.1% year-over-year in April, following a modest monthly increase of 0.1%, according to data released Friday (May 30) by the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The result was in line with market expectations, reinforcing a trend of gradual inflation deceleration.
What Is Core PCE?
Core PCE excludes volatile food and energy prices, offering a clearer view of underlying inflation pressures. It is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve as a key input for interest rate decisions.
- Headline PCE (overall inflation): 2.1% YoY increase
- Core PCE: 2.5% YoY increase
- Fed’s target: 2% annual inflation
Market Reaction: Relief, but No Immediate Rate Cuts
Although the numbers met expectations, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates between 4.25% and 4.50% since December 2024 and remains cautious about initiating cuts.
- Inflation still above target: Even with signs of cooling, the 2.5% core reading remains above the Fed’s ideal level.
- Trade tariff impact: Ongoing tensions with China and protectionist measures could reignite inflationary pressures.
Why Crypto Market Prices Drop Sharplying?
Source: Coin360
The global cryptocurrency market saw a sharp decline on May 30, 2025, with total market capitalization falling by 2.6% to $3.34 trillion.
While many investors were hopeful for sustained momentum after recent gains, several key macroeconomic and technical triggers have led to a widespread sell-off.
If you’re wondering why the crypto market is down today, here’s a breakdown of what’s driving the correction—and what it could mean for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins moving forward.
1. U.S.-China Trade Tensions Resurface
One of the main catalysts behind today’s market drop is the stall in U.S.-China trade negotiations. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that talks with China have reached a deadlock, increasing global market uncertainty.
This geopolitical tension has caused a flight from risk assets—including cryptocurrencies—as investors shift toward safer holdings. Historically, similar diplomatic setbacks have triggered short-term volatility in the crypto space.
2. $683 Million in Crypto Liquidations
Over the last 24 hours, more than $683 million in crypto futures positions have been liquidated, with a staggering $617.85 million from long positions.
- Bitcoin (BTC): $211.21 million liquidated
- Ethereum (ETH): $112.53 million liquidated
These liquidation cascades increase downward pressure and add to the panic selling, especially among short-term traders and over-leveraged positions.
3. Technical Breakdown Adds to Selling Pressure
The total crypto market cap broke below a multi-week parallel channel, testing a key support level at $3.22 trillion. Previous breaks below this support have resulted in steep corrections—such as the 26% drop in February 2025.
Traders are now watching closely to see whether this level holds or if further downside is ahead.
Bitcoin Falls to $104K Amid U.S. Inflation Concerns and Trade Uncertainty
Source: Coinmarketcap
Bitcoin (BTC) dropped 2.8% over the past 24 hours, trading around $104,430 this Friday (May 30).
This marks the lowest weekly close for the cryptocurrency, reflecting a mix of macroeconomic and technical factors that have heightened risk aversion among investors.
Part of the decline is also attributed to profit-taking. Bitcoin had reached an all-time high of $111,800 just eight days ago, prompting some market participants to close positions.
This correction is viewed as a natural move after a strong rally.
In the short term, however, the pullback increases pressure on key technical support levels.
Bitcoin ETFs Also See Outflows
On Thursday (May 29), U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $358 million in net outflows — the first day of withdrawals since May 13.
This trend underscores growing institutional caution in the crypto sector, directly affecting market liquidity and sentiment.
According to technical analysts:
- If BTC loses the $100,000 support, the next target could be around $94,000
- On the other hand, a recovery above $108,000 could reignite buying interest, with a target near $112,000
The current scenario calls for heightened attention to short-term volatility and reactions to macroeconomic news.
In the meantime, the market remains split between risk-off sentiment and hopes for a bullish reversal.
Post-Conference Drop: A Recurring Bitcoin Pattern
Historically, Bitcoin tends to experience a price correction shortly after the Bitcoin Conference. The event often fuels short-term optimism and speculative buying, leading to local highs. However, once the excitement fades and profit-taking sets in, it’s common to see a pullback — a pattern that appears to be repeating itself in 2025.
SEC Review of First Spot XRP ETF in the U.S.
Source: Live Bitcoin News
On May 27, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) officially started to review the first-ever spot XRP ETF application in the United States.
The proposal was submitted by the Cboe BZX Exchange and centers on the WisdomTree XRP Trust, which aims to provide direct exposure to the price of XRP—without requiring direct purchases or digital wallets.
This review signals a pivotal moment in XRP’s journey and could mark a historic opening for institutional adoption.
How Does the Proposed XRP ETF Work?
- Issuer: WisdomTree
- Benchmark: CME CF Ripple-Dollar Reference Rate (CME Group + CF Benchmarks)
- Goal: Allow investors to gain exposure to XRP through traditional brokerage accounts, similar to approved Bitcoin ETFs
- Exchange Listing: Cboe BZX Exchange
The fund would use a trusted price index calculated daily to ensure transparency and traceability—two key factors for SEC approval.
What Is the SEC’s Timeline?
The SEC has up to 240 days to issue a decision. This review period includes:
- Technical and legal analysis
- Public comment period, allowing investors and experts to weigh in on:
- Investor protection
- Market manipulation risks
- Suitability of XRP as a regulated asset
Why Is This XRP ETF Important?
If approved, it would be the first spot XRP ETF in the U.S., potentially triggering several positive outcomes:
- Increased institutional demand for XRP
- Inflow of capital from traditional investors
- Asset appreciation — with analysts forecasting XRP could reach up to $3.40, about 48% above current levels
It could also set a precedent for future spot ETFs tied to other altcoins, such as SOL, ADA, KLV or AVAX.
Ripple vs. SEC: Relevant Context
This proposal comes amid a more favorable climate between Ripple and the SEC following a 2023 court ruling that determined XRP is not a security in retail transactions.
That outcome bolstered market confidence and strengthened XRP’s positioning within the regulated financial landscape.
Strategy Buys Another R$2.4 Billion in Bitcoin, Increasing Holdings to 580,250 BTC
Source: X
Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), the world’s second largest corporate holder of Bitcoin, has announced the purchase of an additional 4,020 BTC, totaling $427.1 million (R$2.4 billion) in new capital allocation.
However, leading the global ranking is asset manager BlackRock, with over $70 billion in BTC under management — making it the largest institutional holder of Bitcoin in the world, second only to Satoshi Nakamoto.
With this latest acquisition, the company now holds 580,250 bitcoins in custody, acquired at an average price of $69,979 per BTC, according to its official statement. This position represents about 3% of Bitcoin’s total circulating supply.
Thanks to Bitcoin’s price appreciation in recent months, Strategy now records an unrealized profit of approximately $22.7 billion. The company’s total BTC investment has surpassed $40.6 billion, cementing its status as a global benchmark for corporate Bitcoin adoption.
New Stock Offering to Fuel More Bitcoin Purchases
To continue expanding its reserves, Strategy has launched a new common stock offering worth up to $21 billion. According to Michael Saylor, the company’s founder and chairman:
“This funding allows us to further strengthen our Bitcoin position and maintain our commitment to digital scarcity.”
Since October 2024, Strategy has raised over $20.9 billion through stock sales and aims to reach $42 billion within three years—supporting its long-term Bitcoin accumulation strategy.
Strategy’s CEO, Phong Le, noted that over 70 publicly traded companies have already adopted the Bitcoin standard as part of their treasury policies. He emphasized:
“We’re proud to lead this transformation and demonstrate that Bitcoin is a reliable strategic asset for the long term.”
The acquisition of 4,020 more BTC underscores Strategy’s role in driving institutional adoption of Bitcoin as a reserve asset.
With a portfolio now exceeding half a million BTC, the company exemplifies the shift toward decentralized corporate treasury management, showing Bitcoin’s potential to serve beyond speculation—as a long-term strategic reserve.
GameStop Invests $512 Million in Bitcoin and Establishes Strategic Reserve
Source: Portal do Bitcoin
GameStop, the U.S.-listed video game retail giant, surprised markets by announcing the purchase of 4,710 bitcoins, equivalent to approximately $512 million (or R$2.8 billion). The company now joins a select group of firms using Bitcoin as a corporate store of value.
The investment was made using proceeds from a recent $1.5 billion convertible notes offering, signaling a strategic shift in the company’s treasury approach.
GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen had previously hinted at an interest in Bitcoin, having been seen alongside Michael Saylor, founder of Strategy — the company that pioneered the use of BTC as a reserve asset. Strategy’s strategy helped push its market cap to $101.76 billion, serving as a model for other publicly traded firms.
GameStop Joins Growing List of Companies Adding Bitcoin to Their Balance Sheets
GameStop is now following the path of major corporations embracing Bitcoin as a strategic asset, joining the ranks of companies that have already added the cryptocurrency to their balance sheets, such as:
- Strategy
- Tesla (holding over $1.25 billion in BTC as of December 2024)
- Marathon Digital Holdings
- Riot Platforms
- CleanSpark
These moves reflect a growing trend among public companies aiming to shield their cash reserves from fiat currency devaluation and gain exposure to the most established digital asset on the market.
Despite the announcement, GameStop’s stock closed down 10.9% the same day, after three consecutive sessions of gains totaling +24.8%. The pullback may signal profit-taking by investors and a reassessment of the company’s strategy given the volatility of the crypto market.
GameStop’s R$2.8 billion Bitcoin allocation marks a new chapter at the intersection of traditional retail and digital assets — and may encourage other corporations to follow suit, further reinforcing Bitcoin’s role as a decentralized digital reserve.
Santander Bank May Launch Its Own Stablecoin Pegged to USD and Euro
Source: Cointelegraph
According to a Bloomberg report published on May 29, the bank is considering offering fiat-backed tokens tied to both the U.S. dollar and the euro. This reflects a broader trend of traditional banks moving into the blockchain space.
The project is still in an early exploratory phase.
Although the bank has not officially confirmed the launch, the mere interest already represents a relevant step in the stablecoin market — currently dominated by fintech and blockchain-native companies such as Tether (USDT) and Circle (USDC).
If it moves forward, Santander will join a growing group of major financial institutions that are already studying or developing their own stablecoins, including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, and Wells Fargo.
Why Are Banks Creating Stablecoins?
There are several reasons why large banks are exploring stablecoins:
Faster and cheaper payments: Stablecoins allow for near-instant settlement at lower cost, especially in international transactions.
Global reach of digital money: A stablecoin backed by Santander could expand the use of fiat currencies in digital payments.
Financial inclusion: Stablecoins can help unbanked populations access the financial system through digital assets.
Innovation for businesses: Small and medium-sized enterprises could benefit from more efficient access to capital and global markets.
Unlike decentralized stablecoins, those issued by banks tend to be fully regulated, audited, and backed by transparent reserves. This can boost institutional confidence and accelerate adoption within traditional finance.
However, experts warn that these benefits may come with downsides — such as reduced competition and less consumer choice.
The rise of interest-bearing stablecoins — also called yield-bearing stablecoins — has sparked debate among regulators and banking specialists.
Crypto critics like Senator Kirsten Gillibrand argue that this model could drain deposits from community banks, undermining their ability to issue credit to families and small businesses.
Although the project is not yet official, Santander has the infrastructure, regulatory readiness, and large user base to enter the stablecoin market with strength and credibility.
If launched, the bank’s stablecoin is expected to focus on institutional applications — such as real-time settlements, tokenized securities, and supply chain financing.
Still, success will depend on factors like regulatory approval, market adoption, and technological interoperability with other blockchains.
A New Phase in Digital Finance?
Current overview of the stablecoin market. Source: RWA.XYZ
Santander’s potential stablecoin marks a key moment in the convergence between traditional finance and the digital economy.
As global banks explore asset tokenization and blockchain technology, stablecoins are taking a central role in the future of digital money.
The next wave of innovation in the financial sector might not come only from startups — but also from century-old banks entering the Web3 space with regulatory support and billions in capital to deploy.
Toy Goes Viral and Sends Solana’s LABUBU Memecoin Soaring 5,934% in Two Weeks
Source: Crypto Times
The memecoin LABUBU, built on the Solana blockchain, surged by an astonishing 5,934% in just two weeks. The reason? The viral explosion of Labubu toys — collectible keychains with a cute and quirky design that have taken social media by storm.
But this trend didn’t originate from the crypto world. It came straight from pop culture and fashion. Created by artist Kasing Lung, the Labubu character has become a must-have among celebrities and collectors.
Photos of Rihanna holding a Labubu keychain triggered global buzz and skyrocketing demand.
How the Labubu Toy Craze Fueled the Crypto Surge
The viral success of Labubu toys has led to:
- Crowds and long lines at physical stores in the UK
- Units selling for up to $1,200 on eBay
- Pop Mart suspending sales due to overwhelming demand
With the physical items suddenly scarce, fans and investors began looking for digital alternatives to ride the hype. That’s when the LABUBU memecoin exploded, quickly gaining traction in Solana’s crypto community.
After Going Viral:
- The coin soared over 5,900%
- Market cap exceeded $49 million
- Liquidity spiked on Jupiter and Raydium, two major Solana-based platforms
Despite having no concrete utility, LABUBU came to digitally represent a growing cultural trend — driving heavy speculation.
Labubu Memecoin is Not an Isolated Case
The crypto market has shown strong synergy with viral and cultural phenomena, especially when:
- There’s an engaged fan base
- Scarcity or hype surrounds a physical item
- The digital asset becomes a “speculative version” of the trend
Similar patterns have been seen with memecoins like PEPE, BONK, and DOGE — but LABUBU stands out for being driven by a physical collectible rather than an internet joke.
Risks: Should You Invest in Memecoins Like LABUBU?
While LABUBU’s recent performance is eye-catching, investors should be aware:
- Memecoins are highly volatile
- There’s no guarantee of continued price appreciation
- Lack of technical fundamentals makes them highly speculative
Investors should approach with caution and understand the risks involved.
The meteoric rise of LABUBU highlights how the virality of a physical item can fuel demand for digital assets.
In a market increasingly shaped by trends, communities, and social behavior, the fusion of pop culture and crypto might keep driving sudden spikes — but it also means extreme volatility is here to stay.
Javier Milei Restructures Argentina’s Public TV with Bitcoin-Inspired Cartoon “Tuttle Twins”
Source: The Crypto Basic
On May 28, Argentine President Javier Milei took another step in his ideological campaign by overhauling the programming of the state-run children’s channel Paka Paka. Part of the traditional content was replaced with the American animated series Tuttle Twins, known for teaching economic freedom, private property, and decentralization — values closely aligned with Milei’s libertarian views and widely embraced by Bitcoin supporters.
Aimed at educating children through classical liberal and Austrian economics principles, Tuttle Twins is set to premiere in Argentina in July 2025. The show simplifies and adapts the ideas of economists like Milton Friedman, Friedrich Hayek, and Ludwig von Mises for younger audiences.
One of the most talked-about episodes features the creation of Bitcoin, explaining how it works, its value proposition, and the role of Satoshi Nakamoto as the cryptocurrency’s creator. The episode critiques traditional banking systems and fiat currency, framing Bitcoin as a fairer and more efficient alternative — a narrative that strongly resonates with Milei’s support base.
According to the government, this programming shift is part of a broader effort to cut public spending and cultivate a new generation rooted in free-market values, personal responsibility, and entrepreneurship.
Community and Media Reactions
The move sparked mixed reactions. Critics accused Milei of early-stage ideological indoctrination, while supporters praised the initiative for breaking away from narratives they say have long supported a paternalistic and inefficient state.
In the crypto community, the decision was widely applauded as yet another sign that Argentina may become a hub for Bitcoin adoption, with public policies promoting decentralized finance education from childhood.