Novice

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the U.S. Congress is actively working on regulatory frameworks for the cryptocurrency market. According to Odaily, Trump expressed his hope to sign a cryptocurrency bill in the near future.

European Central Bank Governing Council member Fabio Panetta commented on the United States’ recent digital finance initiatives, saying they reflect Washington’s broader effort to reinforce global demand for the U.S. dollar, according to ChainCatcher.Panetta noted that developments in digital finance are not purely technological, but carry strategic monetary implications, particularly as major economies compete to shape the future of global payments and financial infrastructure. 

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has identified crypto asset regulation as a primary management and performance risk for the fiscal year 2026, according to a report released by the Office of the Inspector General on Tuesday. According to Odaily, the report highlights that pending crypto legislation could significantly expand the CFTC's responsibilities, while the agency is currently dealing with staffing shortages and internal pressures.Data indicates that the number of full-time employees at the CFTC has decreased from approximately 708 at the end of fiscal year 2024 to about 556 a year later, marking a 21.5% reduction. The Inspector General warns that fulfilling these expanded functions will require hiring more staff, establishing technical expertise, and developing new data systems. Vincent Liu, Chief Investment Officer at Kronos Research, noted that the CFTC's current duties and resources are not designed for decentralized spot markets, and effective regulation will necessitate targeted legal expansion and a hybrid framework.

Grayscale has submitted an S-1 filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, aiming to transform its Grayscale Near Trust into an ETF. According to Foresight News, the trust's shares are currently traded on the OTCQB market under the ticker "GSNR." Once the registration statement attached to its prospectus becomes effective, the trust plans to list these shares on the NYSE Arca, maintaining the same ticker symbol "GSNR."

U.S. President Donald Trump's newly appointed Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), Mike Selig, has announced plans to establish a regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency industry. According to ChainCatcher, Selig aims to create rules that will provide long-term protection for crypto assets and other financial innovations, ensuring they are not easily overturned in the future.In an article published on social media platform X and in The Washington Post on Tuesday, Selig stated that the CFTC will move away from its current practice of enforcement-based regulation. Instead, it will develop tailored rules for emerging markets like digital assets to maintain the global competitiveness of U.S. financial markets. He noted that the digital asset economy has grown from a novelty to a market valued at approximately $3 trillion. While specific regulatory details have not yet been disclosed, Selig mentioned that more policy adjustments will be announced in the coming days. Additionally, an Innovation Advisory Committee will be established to provide guidance on financial innovations, including crypto assets, prediction markets, and perpetual contracts.Selig emphasized that regulatory policies formed through formal rule-making processes are more stable and less likely to be overturned by future administrations compared to informal guidance. On the same day, the CFTC also announced the hiring of crypto attorney Michael Passalacqua to assist with related efforts. Analysts suggest that this stance aligns with the Trump administration's overall supportive position on crypto innovation, indicating that the CFTC may become one of the most crucial regulatory bodies for the U.S. crypto market in the future.

Delaware Life Insurance Company has announced the inclusion of the BlackRock U.S. Equity Bitcoin Balanced Risk 12% Index in its fixed index annuity offerings. According to ChainCatcher, this index combines U.S. equities with Bitcoin exposure through the iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT), aiming for a target volatility of 12% while safeguarding the principal of the fixed index annuities.

Michael Selig, the newly appointed Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), has announced the launch of the 'Future Proof' program aimed at modernizing regulations for digital assets. According to NS3.AI, this initiative seeks to reassess outdated rules originally intended for agricultural futures and introduce the minimum necessary regulations to encourage innovation in the digital asset sector. The CFTC is also preparing to expand its role should Congress enact new legislation concerning the digital asset market structure, with the goal of maintaining the competitiveness of U.S. markets.

The U.S. Congress is working to establish a clearer legal framework for digital assets, aiming to support technological innovation while enhancing constraints on illegal activities. According to Odaily, the legislative process may not achieve its intended outcomes due to weakened regulatory authority and insufficient enforcement resources. The article highlights that the "Genius Act," related to stablecoin regulation, distributes key responsibilities across various regulatory bodies. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), which plays a crucial role, has seen its enforcement capabilities limited following layoffs and cybersecurity incidents. Meanwhile, the "Clarity Act" proposes to adjust regulatory responsibilities, reducing the jurisdiction of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and placing most tokens under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). However, the CFTC's budget is only a fraction of the SEC's, leading to long-standing constraints on manpower and enforcement resources. Additionally, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), which previously handled consumer complaints in the crypto sector, has had its functions significantly reduced, further weakening the overall regulatory network. Bloomberg suggests that promoting broader public and institutional investment in crypto assets without adequate regulatory capacity could backfire. Continued exposure of fraud and illegal activities might undermine market confidence and industry growth. The article recommends establishing a unified trading regulatory framework for digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, with rules jointly developed by the SEC and CFTC to enhance market stability, information disclosure, and investor protection. The commentary warns that until Congress provides regulatory agencies with sufficient authority, expertise, and resources, the crypto market will remain in a "buyer beware" state.

Despite ongoing regulatory uncertainty in the U.S. with delays to the Clarity Act, blockchain adoption continues to grow robustly across institutional finance. According to NS3.AI, major financial institutions are expanding their use of tokenized products and on-chain infrastructure even without clear market structure legislation. Analysts caution that regulatory setbacks may slow adoption and reduce competitiveness but highlight resilient institutional momentum as a key driver.

Hong Kong's Securities and Futures Practitioners Association (HKSFPA) has submitted feedback to regulatory authorities regarding the proposed digital asset management framework, expressing opposition to several restrictive measures. According to Odaily, the HKSFPA primarily objects to the removal of the current 'de minimis' arrangement. Under existing rules, institutions holding a Type 9 license (asset management) can allocate up to 10% of total fund assets to crypto assets without needing an additional virtual asset management license, provided they report to the regulatory body. The proposed framework seeks to eliminate this limit, requiring a full virtual asset management license even for a 1% allocation to Bitcoin. The HKSFPA argues that this 'all-or-nothing' regulatory approach is disproportionate and could lead to significant compliance costs despite limited risk exposure, potentially deterring traditional asset management firms from entering the crypto asset sector. Additionally, the HKSFPA has raised concerns about the proposed custody requirements. The proposal mandates that virtual asset managers use only Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) licensed custodians for asset custody. The association contends that this requirement is impractical for early-stage token investments and Web3 venture capital, possibly restricting local institutions from engaging in related activities. The HKSFPA supports the direction of allowing self-custody and using qualified overseas custodians when serving professional investors. Reports indicate that these regulatory suggestions are advancing. Hong Kong authorities have previously released a consultation summary on the related framework and are conducting a new round of consultations on the licensing system for crypto asset trading, advisory, and management services.

The U.S. Federal Reserve has scheduled an $8.3 billion Treasury bill purchase for January 20, 2026, as part of a broader $55 billion liquidity injection into financial markets, according to data cited by NS3.AI.The announcement comes amid heightened volatility in the Bitcoin market, which has been pressured in recent sessions by geopolitical tensions and renewed tariff-related uncertainty.Liquidity injection amid macro instabilityThe Treasury bill purchase forms part of the Federal Reserve’s ongoing balance sheet operations, aimed at maintaining sufficient liquidity within the financial system. While the move does not represent a formal shift in monetary policy, it adds short-term liquidity at a time when global markets remain sensitive to political and macroeconomic developments.Bitcoin has experienced sharp price fluctuations in recent days, reacting to escalating trade tensions and broader risk-off sentiment across global markets.Bitcoin outlook remains cautiously optimisticDespite near-term pressure, some market participants maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook for Bitcoin, noting that liquidity injections have historically provided medium-term support for risk assets.However, analysts also warn that macroeconomic uncertainty remains elevated. Investor flows have recently favored traditional safe-haven assets such as gold and silver, both of which have reached record highs, potentially limiting Bitcoin’s upside in the short term.Short-term consolidation possibleWith tariff risks, geopolitical uncertainty, and shifting capital flows still dominating sentiment, Bitcoin may continue to consolidate or face further corrective moves before establishing a clearer trend.Market participants are closely monitoring whether sustained liquidity support and improving risk appetite can eventually translate into renewed momentum for digital assets.

Police in Pasay City, Philippines, have successfully rescued a Chinese national who was kidnapped by fellow Chinese individuals demanding a $1 million ransom. According to NS3.AI, the victim was forced to transfer approximately $400,000 in cryptocurrency and pay an additional $14,000 in cash during the ordeal. Authorities have apprehended two suspects, while two others remain at large. The arrested individuals are set to face charges of kidnapping and illegal detention.

The Georgia Department of Banking and Finance has issued a cease and desist order against Crypto Dispensers, a virtual currency platform operated by Virtual Assets LLC. According to PANews, the platform was found to be operating an online virtual currency exchange and engaging in money or 'monetary value' transmission, including virtual currency, without obtaining the necessary Money Transmitter license or applicable exemption in Georgia.Under Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. § 7-1-681 and § 7-1-681(b), any entity transmitting funds or virtual currency within the United States or internationally must first secure a license or meet exemption criteria. Failure to comply with these requirements is considered illegal.

South Korea is set to reform its digital asset regulatory framework, according to PANews. The country's financial authorities are planning to abolish the "one exchange-one bank" restriction, which will allow the issuance of crypto derivatives and corporate account participation in trading. This move aims to dismantle the current market monopoly structure and enhance liquidity.Regulators believe that although this restriction is not legally mandated, it has persisted due to anti-money laundering requirements, limiting competition among exchanges and user choice. The upcoming policies will be included in the second phase of the Digital Asset Basic Act legislation. Both political parties in the National Assembly have reached a consensus on some aspects of regulatory relaxation.

The Hong Kong government is set to announce the 2026/2027 fiscal budget on February 25, with a focus on virtual assets and investor protection. According to ChainCatcher, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Professionals Association stated that the city has completed the initial regulatory infrastructure for virtual assets. The next step should be to focus on the commercialization and practical application of these assets.Efforts to enhance Hong Kong's position as a global virtual asset hub include improving secondary market liquidity for real-world assets, expediting product approvals, introducing international liquidity, and strengthening professional training. These initiatives aim to transform Hong Kong from a market with clear regulations into one with abundant liquidity and widespread application, aligning with the national "15th Five-Year Plan" for financial openness and digital economy strategy.

Injective's governance proposal IIP-617 has been overwhelmingly approved, with 99.89% of community members voting in favor. According to ChainCatcher, this proposal has been enacted immediately, significantly reducing the total supply of INJ tokens. This move positions INJ as one of the most deflationary assets in the cryptocurrency market.

Denmark and the United Kingdom reaffirmed their commitment to territorial integrity during high-level talks in London, as geopolitical tensions surrounding Greenland continue to draw international attention.On January 19, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Rasmussen met with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper in London. Following the meeting, Rasmussen said he was encouraged by the support Denmark and Greenland have received from international partners.According to Odaily, Rasmussen emphasized that the UK clearly stated territorial boundaries are non-negotiable, underscoring the principle of national sovereignty under international law.Message directed toward the United StatesRasmussen said it is essential to deliver a clear message to the United States that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations must be respected, particularly amid renewed discussions related to Greenland.The comments come as geopolitical friction has increased following recent statements from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Greenland, prompting diplomatic responses from European leaders.Europe signals unified stanceThe meeting reflects broader European efforts to present a unified position on sovereignty issues, reinforcing that territorial integrity remains a foundational principle in international relations.Officials did not announce any concrete policy measures following the talks, but the statements signal growing coordination among European allies amid rising geopolitical uncertainty.

Economists have raised concerns about the potential for a recession in the United Kingdom if U.S. President Donald Trump swiftly implements his latest tariff threats. According to Odaily, Capital Economics estimates that if the new tariffs are added to the existing 10% import tax in the UK, the country's GDP could decrease by 0.3% to 0.75%. The World Bank's assessment of UK economic growth suggests that if tariffs are increased to 25% starting in June, the UK economy could suffer a blow of £21.6 billion. Paul Dales, Chief UK Economist at Capital Economics, stated, "Currently, the UK economy is growing by only 0.2% to 0.3% per quarter, and a sudden impact could trigger a recession."

Eurozone finance ministers have chosen Vujcic to succeed Guindos as the Vice President of the European Central Bank, with the term starting on June 1. According to Odaily, this decision marks a significant leadership change within the ECB.

According to Cointelegraph, Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has enacted legislation to regulate digital assets, including cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC). The newly signed laws, titled 'On Banks and Banking Activities' and 'On Amendments and Supplements to Certain Legislative Acts on the Regulation and Development of the Financial Market, Communications, and Bankruptcy,' aim to create a structured framework for digital asset management. This legislation introduces a classification system for digital assets, encompassing stablecoins, assets backed by financial instruments and property, and financial instruments issued in electronic digital form. The National Bank of Kazakhstan (NBK) is designated as the primary regulator, with the authority to license exchanges, approve cryptocurrencies for circulation, and set trading activity limits on regulated platforms. Kazakhstan's legislative framework introduces a new asset class comprising three types of digital financial assets (DFAs). The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market (ARDFM) is tasked with establishing requirements for the issuance, circulation, and redemption of DFAs, excluding stablecoins. New digital platform operators serving as DFA issuers will require licensing from the central bank. DFAs will adhere to requirements similar to those for traditional financial instruments, including risk management, information disclosure, and investor protection. The legislation also covers cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH), categorized as 'unsecured digital assets.' The NBK will regulate and license cryptocurrency exchange organizations, establishing a list of permitted crypto assets and setting limits and restrictions on exchange operations. Kazakhstan's digital asset regulation aligns with its ambitions to become a regional industry hub in Central Asia. The country has been proactive in adopting stablecoin payments and witnessed the launch of Bitcoin exchange-traded funds in 2025, while also playing a significant role in global crypto mining. Cointelegraph reached out to the ARDFM for comments on the list of permitted crypto assets and other rules but did not receive a response by the time of publication. This regulatory move reflects Kazakhstan's strategic efforts to position itself as a key player in the digital asset sector, fostering a secure and structured environment for digital financial activities.