‍Aptos Proposes Post-Quantum Signatures to Secure Blockchain Future The Layer-1 network Aptos is moving to integrate post-quantum signatures via AIP-137. This proactive measure aims to protect against the growing capabilities of quantum computing, which could theoretically bypass current cryptographic security. The proposal introduces the FIPS 205 standardized SLH-DSA scheme, an opt-in upgrade for users. This makes Aptos one of the first blockchains to offer native post-quantum accounts, safeguarding against future quantum-induced vulnerabilities without disrupting existing users. Other networks like Solana and Bitcoin are also exploring similar quantum-resistant solutions.
‍FBI Dismantles E-Note Crypto Exchange Linked to $70M Ransomware Laundering The FBI, in collaboration with international partners, has shut down E-Note, a virtual currency service allegedly used to launder over $70 million in illicit funds for transnational cybercriminal organizations since 2017. Authorities unsealed an indictment against the platform's alleged operator, Russian national Mykhalio Petrovich Chudnovets. The operation seized domains, servers, and mobile applications. E-Note operated with a low public profile to evade AML monitoring. This action is part of a broader global effort to curb crypto-related crime, with billions in digital assets stolen annually.
‍Redbelly and AMAL Modernize Asset Markets via Onchain Tokenization Redbelly Network and AMAL Trustees are advancing institutional finance through onchain tokenization, replacing manual processes with real-time digital infrastructure. Key initiatives include Project Acacia, a pilot with the Reserve Bank of Australia exploring tokenized asset-backed securities, and the use of zkIdentity for compliant participation. Redbelly Network's infrastructure supports deterministic consensus, achieving over 97,000 transactions per second. This marks a strategic shift for managing complex asset lifecycles and collateral mobility.
‍Trump Media & Technology Group to Merge with Fusion Power Leader TAE Technologies in $6 Billion Deal Trump Media & Technology Group (DJT) has announced a definitive agreement to merge with TAE Technologies, a developer of fusion power. The $6 billion all-stock transaction, which aims to combine digital media infrastructure with advanced energy solutions for AI and blockchain, caused DJT shares to surge 35% in early trading. The merger is expected to be completed by mid-2026. DJT Chairman and CEO Devin Nunes stated the combination is designed to position the firm as a leader in the global AI revolution and an American energy renaissance. The company also recently facilitated a $2.5 billion Bitcoin acquisition and is advising on a $6 billion digital asset treasury firm.
‍Brickken Achieves $300M in Tokenized Assets Amidst Institutional Adoption Brickken, a platform focused on institutional tokenization, has surpassed $300 million in tokenized assets under management across 16 countries. CEO Edwin Mata highlighted the evolution of blockchain infrastructure, moving from early regulatory pilots to a robust solution for institutional capital. The company, serving over 100 institutional clients, emphasizes the increasing convergence of traditional finance and public-chain ecosystems. Market demand is notably strong in commodity issuance, particularly gold-backed assets, and extends to real estate, private credit, and investment funds, driven by the need for transparency and efficiency.
‍Kalshi Integrates TRON to Boost Prediction Market Liquidity Kalshi, the world's largest prediction market, has integrated the TRON (TRX) network, enabling seamless deposits and withdrawals using TRX and USDT on TRON. This strategic move aims to unlock new liquidity pathways for global participants by leveraging TRON's high throughput, near-zero transaction fees, and access to over $80 billion in USDT. John Wang, Head of Crypto at Kalshi, stated, "TRON's integration strengthens Kalshi’s multichain vision of maximizing accessibility." Sam Elfarra of TRON DAO highlighted the network's scalability for prediction markets' mainstream adoption. This collaboration reflects a growing trend of traditional finance platforms adopting decentralized protocols for reduced settlement friction and enhanced global accessibility.
‍Bitcoin Surges Past $89K as US Inflation Hits Lowest Since 2021 US CPI inflation for November dropped to 2.7% year-over-year, significantly below forecasts. This surprising decline triggered market volatility, with Bitcoin briefly exceeding $89,000 before retracting. The lower inflation reading suggests a potential shift in Federal Reserve monetary policy, increasing the probability of interest rate cuts. However, market analysts note ongoing "liquidity hunts" leading to erratic price swings and significant liquidations. The outlook remains cautious amidst macroeconomic support and technical volatility.
‍Fetch.ai Launches ASI:ONE Payment System for Autonomous AI Agents Fetch.ai is set to launch a new payment system in January 2026, enabling autonomous AI agents to execute transactions using credit cards, stablecoins, and FET tokens. This system aims to transition the economy towards an "AI-first" model by eliminating the need for real-time human intervention in checkout processes. The platform features single-use credentials, direct Visa integration (with Mastercard support planned), and an offline "mailbox" system for message processing. A robust Identity Layer with KYC elements is integrated to ensure trust and regulatory compliance, tying agents to identifiable users or businesses. This development is a significant step towards making AI agents autonomous participants in the global economy.
‍Revolut Lists $AURORA Amidst CEO Transition Global financial app Revolut has listed $AURORA, the native token of Aurora Protocol, for its 65 million users. This integration allows 160+ countries to access $AURORA with fiat on-ramps and trading tools. The announcement coincides with Declan Hannon's appointment as new CEO of Aurora, signaling a focus on commercial growth. Former lead Alex Shevchenko will advise on protocol innovation.
‍VivoPower Plans Indirect XRP Exposure Deal Valued at $900M Nasdaq-listed VivoPower International is arranging to source up to $300 million in Ripple Labs equity for South Korean firm Lean Ventures. This strategic move aims to offer institutional investors indirect exposure to approximately 450 million XRP tokens, currently valued at $900 million. The transaction leverages Ripple's corporate holdings rather than direct cryptocurrency ownership, reflecting a trend in using equity as a proxy for digital asset exposure. The deal, to be managed by VivoPower’s subsidiary Vivo Federation, targets net economic returns of $75 million over three years, primarily through management and performance fees. This initiative follows increased institutional interest in XRP and the XRPL ecosystem, partly due to regulatory clarity following Ripple's legal battles and the potential for spot XRP ETFs. Despite the deal's ambitious scope, VivoPower's stock (VVPR) saw an 11.56% decline on December 17, 2024. Market analysts suggest the success hinges on the availability of private Ripple shares and cryptocurrency market performance. The transaction underscores the growing sophistication of crypto-linked financial products, particularly targeting markets like South Korea with high crypto participation.