• Fourteen US states disclosed a combined $632 million investment in Strategy stock in the first quarter of 2025.
• Strategy remains popular due to its large Bitcoin reserves and rising stock value.
• California led with $276 million in holdings through its two major public pension funds.
• Florida, North Carolina, and New Jersey each reported significant increases in Strategy share acquisitions.
• Despite its smaller share count, Utah showed the highest quarterly growth rate at 184%.

In Q1 2025, fourteen US states collectively reported $632 million in Strategy stock across public retirement and treasury funds. Strategy, formerly MicroStrategy, is known for its large Bitcoin reserves and strong stock performance. This surge signals growing state-level interest in gaining indirect Bitcoin exposure through traditional equity holdings.

California Leads in Strategy Share Accumulation

California holds the largest portion of Strategy shares, totaling $276 million across its two main pension funds. CalSTRS added 18% more shares, reaching 336,936, while CalPERS increased its stake by 35% to 357,183 shares. This quarter, the state’s combined holdings represent the highest dollar value among all reporting entities.

The consistent growth shows a continued push toward blockchain-aligned assets through regulated institutions like Strategy. Both California funds saw a significant quarterly rise in share numbers and market value. As Strategy’s stock price grew in early 2025, the value of California’s holdings appreciated accordingly.

Other large holders like Florida and North Carolina also expanded their positions in Strategy during Q1. Florida reported 221,860 shares valued at $88 million, a 38% quarterly increase. North Carolina’s treasurer now manages 107,925 shares, reflecting a 41% jump since Q4 2024.

Smaller States Show Rapid Growth in Strategy Shares

Utah posted the highest percentage increase in Strategy holdings, up 184% from the previous quarter. It currently holds 25,287 shares valued at $10 million across its retirement system. The sharp rise marks the most aggressive quarter-on-quarter growth among all states.

Colorado followed with a 67% increase, now managing 30,567 shares worth $12 million. This demonstrates accelerated activity even among states with limited exposure to the Strategy. Such momentum aligns with the rising market interest in Bitcoin-aligned equities.

Arizona raised its holdings by 25%, bringing its Strategy share count to 66,523 worth $26 million. This occurred despite the recent veto of a proposed Bitcoin reserve bill in the state. The development indicates selective but rising engagement with crypto-linked stocks.

Wisconsin and New Jersey Shift Strategies in Crypto Exposure

Wisconsin’s Investment Board holds 127,528 Strategy shares valued at $51 million after growing its position by 26% during the quarter. However, it simultaneously sold its entire $300 million stake in the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT). This move shows a change in approach toward direct crypto-related securities.

New Jersey maintains $43 million in Strategy holdings across two public pension funds. The Police and Firemen’s Retirement System holds 33,628 shares, increasing by 40%, while Common Pension Fund D grew by 14% to 76,615 shares. These steady gains contribute to New Jersey’s overall Bitcoin-related asset exposure.

While Strategy’s stock closed at $397 on May 9 after a recent peak, it remains up 37% year-to-date. This performance supports the increasing state-level allocation to the stock.

The post States Quietly Pour $632M into Strategy Stock as Bitcoin Surges in 2025 appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Cardano launched Midnight as a privacy-focused network designed to integrate with major blockchains, including XRP.
• Midnight allows developers to pay transaction fees using native chain tokens without asset migration.
• The network introduces a cooperative model to promote interoperability without enforcing ideological alignment.
• Midnight addresses privacy concerns by enabling selective disclosure of sensitive data on public blockchains.
• Cardano created Shielded and the Midnight Foundation to lead technical development and decentralized governance.

Cardano’s new privacy-focused protocol, Midnight, will cooperate with multiple blockchain ecosystems, including XRP, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Charles Hoskinson confirmed the platform’s cross-chain integration strategy at Consensus 2025 in Toronto. Midnight addresses privacy, interoperability, and governance through structural innovation rather than competition.

Cardano Midnight Connects Directly With XRP

Midnight will integrate directly with the XRP Ledger, allowing users to pay transaction fees using XRP and other native tokens. This approach removes the need to move assets between blockchains and avoids unnecessary migration or liquidity disruption. Therefore, Cardano’s strategy with Midnight supports a collaborative infrastructure instead of a competing ecosystem.

Additionally, the use of native tokens for fees strengthens interoperability between Cardano and XRP without enforcing any ideological requirements. Hoskinson emphasized that Midnight does not seek to dominate but to interlink chains with callable infrastructure. As a result, Cardano’s model introduces cross-platform utility while preserving chain sovereignty.

The platform promotes cooperation and functional utility between major chains like XRP and Cardano. Rather than replacing existing systems, it offers a protocol that supports privacy and integration. This structure, labeled “cooperative economics,” presents an alternative to the zero-sum behavior often seen in Web3 development.

Cardano Midnight Adds Privacy to Bitcoin

Midnight introduces a privacy layer that enables selective disclosure to protect financial and medical data across Bitcoin and Ethereum. Cardano’s team developed this feature to address rising concerns over financial surveillance in public blockchains. Transactions on stablecoins like USDC and USDT remain visible, exposing user identities.

Midnight allows users to decide what information to disclose to counteract this, improving confidentiality across public chains like Ethereum and Bitcoin. This selective privacy architecture reflects Cardano’s focus on balancing transparency with personal data protection. Shielded, an engineering arm, now leads the platform’s technical development.

Furthermore, the Midnight Foundation, headed by Fahmy Syed, governs the network’s structure and ensures open participation across all supported chains. The foundation focuses on inclusive governance, helping Cardano extend its principles to partner ecosystems. These coordinated entities aim to make privacy a default feature across networks like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Cardano Pushes New Token Distribution with the Glacier Drop

Cardano will avoid venture capital and token presales by distributing Midnight tokens to 37 million addresses through the Glacier Drop. The airdrop covers eight chains, including Cardano, XRP, Bitcoin, and Ethereum, ensuring wide distribution without capital concentration. Two tokens will be distributed, NIGHT for governance and DUST for transactions.

This approach eliminates early investor advantage and promotes equitable participation across all supported ecosystems. By doing so, Cardano distances itself from speculative models and focuses on sustainable infrastructure. The project funds itself without an initial coin offering or private fundraising round.

Cardano founder Hoskinson noted that on-chain governance ensures long-term adaptability and community control over network evolution. Midnight mirrors this approach with token-based voting and treasury control, reinforcing decentralized oversight. Cardano’s model aims to reshape blockchain governance through inclusive, fair, and transparent systems.

The post Cardano Midnight Sets Silent Alliance With XRP, Bitcoin, Ethereum appeared first on CoinCentral.

• BlackRock enters DeFi with sBUIDL live on Avalanche via Euler.
• sBUIDL brings BlackRock’s Treasuries into DeFi—fully redeemable.
• Borrow stablecoins with sBUIDL and earn AVAX rewards.
• sBUIDL turns passive yield into active DeFi utility.
• Avalanche powers BlackRock’s first on-chain DeFi move.

BlackRock has entered decentralized finance as its tokenized fund BUIDL integrates with Euler on the Avalanche blockchain. Securitize has launched sBUIDL, a composable ERC-20 token minted from BUIDL, enabling on-chain functionality. This marks BlackRock’s first direct DeFi protocol integration and a new era for tokenized real-world assets.

1/ A historic first in DeFi.

BlackRock-backed sBUIDL, issued by @Securitize, is now live on Euler.

It's sBUIDL's first ever direct DeFi integration.

Curated by @Re7Labs on @Avax. pic.twitter.com/B7tTuGzqHL

— Euler Labs (@eulerfinance) May 15, 2025

sBUIDL is issued using Securitize’s vault system, allowing users to lock BUIDL and mint sBUIDL for DeFi use. The token maintains full 1:1 redeemability for BUIDL, which holds short-term U.S. Treasuries and repos. BlackRock now connects traditional asset exposure with permissionless protocols without compromising yield or liquidity.

The integration allows sBUIDL to be used as collateral on Euler’s borrowing and lending markets on Avalanche. The asset earns native AVAX liquidity rewards while users access DeFi-native features. Re7 Labs curated the listing and manages the risk parameters across the Euler deployment.

sBUIDL Unlocks DeFi Access for BlackRock’s Treasury Fund

sBUIDL transforms the traditionally passive nature of BlackRock’s BUIDL fund into an actively usable DeFi asset. It holds all the underlying characteristics of BUIDL while allowing composability in on-chain protocols. Users can maintain yield exposure while leveraging the token for borrowing and other DeFi strategies.

Through the Euler integration, sBUIDL offers up to 92.5% loan-to-value (LTV) and enables borrowing of major stablecoins. Supported assets include USDC, USDT, AUSD, and deUSD, enhancing utility across the Avalanche ecosystem. Users can also participate in AVAX mining rewards when borrowing against sBUIDL.

This positions sBUIDL as a functional bridge between BlackRock’s tokenized treasury exposure and decentralized financial markets. It improves capital efficiency for BUIDL holders by enabling real-time liquidity and active portfolio management. BlackRock now enters a more composable digital finance landscape while retaining full asset backing.

Euler Lists BlackRock’s sBUIDL with AVAX Incentives

Euler has listed sBUIDL as a deposit-enabled asset on its Avalanche deployment, supporting BlackRock’s expansion into DeFi markets. Users can now supply sBUIDL as collateral to borrow other assets while maintaining exposure to Treasury yields. This brings a new utility layer to a $3 billion tokenized fund.

The Euler platform relaunched in 2024 after resolving a previous exploit, now offering a modular, developer-first protocol. Its redesigned architecture has attracted over $387 million in deposits, reflecting renewed confidence in its risk controls and structure. The listing of sBUIDL signals growing institutional interest in secure, composable lending markets.

Re7 Labs and Securitize structured the launch, with Merkl providing additional AVAX incentives for participating users. These incentives enhance the value proposition for sBUIDL holders looking to earn while leveraging DeFi tools. BlackRock’s on-chain participation now offers a scalable model for real-world asset composability.

Avalanche Enables Institutional DeFi with BlackRock’s Entry

Avalanche provides the infrastructure for BlackRock’s sBUIDL to operate within decentralized markets. The chain’s low fees and fast finality support scalable, permissionless finance. With sBUIDL now active, Avalanche deepens its position as a blockchain for real-world asset adoption.

This development marks Avalanche’s growing role in enabling compliant on-chain asset management. BlackRock’s integration signals that the chain meets key performance and security standards for institutional use. Avalanche becomes a proving ground for real-world asset composability at scale.

BlackRock advances its digital asset strategy by launching sBUIDL on Avalanche and integrating with Euler. It establishes a live use case for tokenized Treasuries within a regulated and composable environment. The result is an efficient and transparent pathway for traditional capital to interact with DeFi systems.

The post BlackRock Enters DeFi as sBUIDL Launches on Euler and Avalanche appeared first on CoinCentral.

• World Liberty Financial received 99.96 percent approval from WLFI holders to proceed with USD1 airdrops.
• The airdrop will distribute a fixed amount of USD1 to eligible WLFI-holding wallets on the Ethereum mainnet.
• The proposal was described as a live test of the network’s on-chain airdrop system.
• World Liberty Financial will fully fund the USD1 distribution without requiring user contributions.
• The USD1 stablecoin has reached a market cap of over 2.1 billion dollars within two months of launch.

World Liberty Financial (WLFI) is preparing to execute USD1 airdrops following near-unanimous WLFI token holder community approval. The proposal gained 99.96% support, signaling strong momentum behind the USD1 stablecoin. This move positions the project for broader deployment and increased visibility in the digital asset space.

WLFI Community Approves USD1 Airdrop Proposal

World Liberty Financial initiated a governance proposal via Snapshot to distribute USD1 to all eligible WLFI token holders. The voting process concluded with over 6.8 billion votes in favor, representing 99.96% of the total voting power. This approval reinforces strong community backing and trust in the USD1 airdrops initiative.

The proposal’s objective includes distributing a fixed amount of USD1 per wallet, fully funded by World Liberty Financial, Inc. Though the exact airdrop date remains unconfirmed, it will occur on the Ethereum mainnet. The team is finalizing technical criteria and distribution timelines before beginning the airdrop.

WLF fam — it’s time.
A new Snapshot vote is live to airdrop USD1 to all eligible $WLFI holders.
Free USD1. The hottest stablecoin in crypto 🦅
Don’t miss your chance — vote now:https://t.co/Cv99dBiPh1

— WLFI (@worldlibertyfi) May 6, 2025

The organization described this distribution as a live stress test of its airdrop system to ensure readiness and contract reliability. The WLFI governance platform enabled participants to influence early-stage deployment and direct project development. As such, the proposal has successfully aligned network growth with token utility expansion.

USD1 Gains Traction Despite Regulatory Hurdles

Launched two months ago, the USD1 stablecoin reached a market cap of $2.129 billion in early May. It is pegged to the US dollar and is marketed as a politically neutral digital asset. This positioning aims to attract adoption in both decentralized finance and traditional financial sectors.

While USD1 airdrops are expected to increase circulation, concerns have emerged over links to political figures. Reports suggest individuals connected to former President Donald Trump may have been involved in the project. US regulatory agencies are reviewing the platform’s compliance and governance structures in response.

World Liberty Financial has not issued an official comment but continues preparing for stablecoin distribution. Despite external scrutiny, the company aims to build USD1 into a trusted global asset. Still, political and regulatory challenges could affect future market access, especially in Europe under MiCA guidelines.

Airdrop Strategy Targets Broader Market Expansion

The USD1 airdrops aim to reward early WLFI holders and promote stablecoin adoption across digital asset markets. By distributing to wallet addresses on Ethereum, the company increases exposure without requiring upfront capital from participants. This aligns with current strategies across DeFi, where free distributions generate rapid user engagement.

World Liberty Financial structured the campaign to validate smart contract performance in a live setting under mainnet conditions. This mechanism, once proven, may support future airdrop models across additional platforms. Continued community participation is expected to influence the rollout’s next phases.

As USD1 adoption accelerates, the airdrop plan could mark a key milestone in the stablecoin’s global roadmap. It enhances token visibility, strengthens on-chain trust, and supports a wider utility for WLFI holders. USD1 airdrops are poised to become a foundational tool in the project’s broader scaling ambitions.

The post USD1 Airdrops Set to Launch After WLFI Vote Hits 99.96% Support appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Wintermute has opened a new office in New York to expand its operations in the United States.
• The company cited improved regulatory conditions as a key reason for entering the US market.
• Wintermute aims to play an active role in shaping the future of US crypto regulations.
• The firm appointed Ron Hammond as Head of Policy and Advocacy to lead its policy initiatives.
• Hammond previously worked on Capitol Hill and authored a major bipartisan crypto bill in 2021.

Wintermute has expanded its operations to the United States by opening a new office in New York. The move reflects the firm’s response to improving regulatory conditions and increased digital asset adoption in the US. Wintermute aims to strengthen its role in shaping crypto policy through local presence and strategic appointments.

Wintermute Targets US Growth Amid Regulatory Shift

Wintermute opened its New York office on May 15, marking a key step in its global expansion strategy. The firm stated that improved US regulatory conditions influenced its decision to establish roots there. It plans to leverage its presence to contribute to the evolving digital asset framework actively.

The company seeks to expand operations while engaging directly with regulators and lawmakers in Washington. Wintermute confirmed that discussions have already been held with the SEC Crypto Task Force to offer technical input. The company aimed to influence ongoing legislative developments that affect institutional crypto involvement.

Wintermute’s CEO, Evgeny Gaevoy, stated that the firm is positioned to offer policy support across various digital asset categories. He highlighted that Wintermute remains neutral but experienced in the entire digital asset ecosystem. The firm believes this expertise will help shape practical, innovation-friendly policies in the US.

New Policy Head Joins Wintermute’s Expansion Strategy

Wintermute appointed Ron Hammond as Head of Policy and Advocacy to support its US expansion. Hammond brings a decade of experience in crypto policy and legislative work in Washington, DC. He most recently worked at the Blockchain Association and previously served as a policy lead for Representative Warren Davidson.

Wintermute is officially on the ground in the US

With 2,500 counterparties globally, we're already one of the biggest players in the US market

Now we’re excited to share that we’ve opened a New York office and brought on @RonwHammond as Head of Policy and Advocacy pic.twitter.com/P87LJZku1y

— Wintermute (@wintermute_t) May 15, 2025

Hammond also drafted the Token Taxonomy Act of 2021, the US’s first bipartisan-supported crypto regulatory proposal. Wintermute stated that his addition will strengthen its ability to navigate and influence federal policymaking. The company plans to work closely with lawmakers to support effective crypto regulation.

Wintermute emphasized that a knowledgeable policy team ensures sound regulatory outcomes. It intends to continue offering guidance on upcoming crypto bills and technical standards. With Hammond on board, Wintermute expects to deepen its engagement on Capitol Hill.

US Firms Expand as Regulatory Clarity Grows

Wintermute is one of several major crypto firms expanding in the US following the 2024 presidential election. Since January, at least eight firms, including Binance.US, eToro, OKX, and Circle, have moved to grow their US presence. The trend reflects growing confidence in the current administration’s approach to digital asset regulation.

The administration has prioritized crypto as a national issue, encouraging firms like Wintermute to engage more deeply in policy development. Wintermute noted that increased institutional participation requires supportive laws and stable enforcement environments. The firm said its work with lawmakers will help create an ecosystem that enables further innovation.

Wintermute continues to monitor legislative activity, including progress on stablecoin-focused bills in Congress. The STABLE Act passed a key House committee in April and awaits further debate in the full chamber. Another bill, the GENIUS Act, failed to advance in early May, prompting increased industry engagement in Washington.

The post Crypto Giant Wintermute Enters NYC: Is US Policy Finally Shifting? appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Pi Network has launched a $100 million venture capital fund to support real-world use cases.
• The fund will be managed by Pi Network Ventures, a newly created entity under the Pi Foundation.
• Funding will be provided in both USD and Pi Coin to support early-stage and growth-stage startups.
• The fund will back projects on blockchain, AI, e-commerce, and other practical applications.
• HTX has hinted at a possible Pi Coin listing, which has increased community anticipation.

Pi Network has announced a $100 million VC fund to back projects that push real-world adoption of Pi Coin. The fund will focus on early-stage startups and emerging ventures integrating Pi Network into real-world utility. The move is part of a larger effort to strengthen the Pi Network ecosystem and support broader digital innovation.

Pi Network Targets Utility With $100M Fund

Pi Network will manage the new $100 million fund through Pi Network Ventures, a separate entity created under the Pi Foundation. The funding pool includes USD and Pi Coin, sourced partly from the Pi Foundation’s reserves. The fund aims to promote use cases that drive practical applications for Pi Coin in daily commerce and digital infrastructure.

The fund will prioritize early-stage companies and continue support through Series B and later rounds for selected ventures. Pi Network Ventures will not limit its support to blockchain-native startups but will also fund AI and e-commerce sectors. The Pi Network team plans to provide resources, technical support, and funding to foster meaningful growth.

Pi intends to build lasting value across its ecosystem by focusing on innovation and utility. The project expects funded startups to create products integrating Pi Coin in real business scenarios. This initiative marks a decisive step in Pi Network’s roadmap to mass adoption.

HTX Hints at Possible Pi Coin Listing

In recent weeks, HTX has hinted at a potential listing of Pi Coin through a series of strategic social media messages. These signals have fueled expectations of a listing as Pi gains momentum across global communities. The possibility of a listing has drawn attention due to HTX’s wide crypto user base.

Although no formal confirmation has emerged, multiple Pi users anticipate an announcement during the Consensus 2025 event. With the ecosystem fund launched, HTX could become one of the first major exchanges to officially recognize Pi Coin, marking a major milestone for Pi Network in the exchange landscape.

Such a listing could increase liquidity and visibility for Pi Coin, further boosting adoption efforts tied to the $100 million fund. As excitement builds, Pi Network continues to position itself as a serious digital currency platform. Market watchers remain alert to further developments from both HTX and Pi Network Ventures.

Upbit and Binance Speculations Add Momentum to Listing Hopes

Upbit remains a contender for listing Pi Coin due to its large user base in South Korea and growing demand. With many Pi holders in the region, a potential Upbit listing could support significant transaction volume. The South Korean market continues to show interest in Pi Coin’s broader utility.

Meanwhile, ongoing speculation links Binance to a possible listing, although no official statement has been made yet. Binance’s global influence and reach could provide a strong launchpad for Pi Coin in the broader market. A listing on Binance would reinforce the credibility and reach of Pi Network’s digital currency.

Together with HTX and Upbit, these platforms represent major opportunities for Pi  to expand its exchange footprint. The VC fund and potential listings signal Pi Network’s serious commitment to real-world integration.

The post Pi Network Sets $100M Venture Fund to Power Real-World Use Cases appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Summer Mersinger will resign from the CFTC on May 30 to lead the Blockchain Association.
• Her departure will leave the CFTC with only three active commissioners out of five.
• The CFTC is already dealing with one existing vacancy and faces another expected resignation.
• President Trump has nominated Brian Quintenz as the next CFTC Chair but confirmation is delayed.
• Christy Goldsmith Romero plans to resign once Quintenz is confirmed, adding to the staffing issues.

The CFTC will soon operate with only three of its five commissioners as Summer Mersinger prepares to resign. She will officially leave on May 30 to assume the CEO role at the Blockchain Association. This transition intensifies growing concerns about the CFTC’s ability to maintain regulatory efficiency amid an extended staffing gap.

CFTC Faces Pressure After Mersinger Exit

Summer Mersinger’s departure follows an earlier vacancy, bringing the CFTC down to three active commissioners. Her exit removes one of the commission’s most consistent pro-crypto voices during a crucial regulatory period. Although she will remain active in crypto advocacy, her absence inside the agency could delay key initiatives.

Her successor at the Blockchain Association highlights her industry expertise and federal regulatory background as strategic assets. Yet, the CFTC must now adjust operations without her leadership while facing regulatory deadlines. This transition, while planned, adds uncertainty to the agency’s oversight structure in a sensitive regulatory environment.

Although Acting Chair Caroline Pham remains in place, the commission will lack the full leadership needed for timely decision-making. Two other commissioners remain past their official term expiration, complicating long-term planning. Mersinger’s term was the most secure among the five, so her departure significantly impacts commission stability.

CFTC is Becoming a ‘Ghost Town’

President Trump has already nominated Brian Quintenz to lead the CFTC as its next Chair. However, the Senate has not scheduled hearings or votes to confirm him. The absence of updates indicates that this process could extend into the later part of 2025.

If confirmed, Quintenz will take a pro-crypto stance, potentially shifting commission priorities toward market innovation. But once he assumes office, another Commissioner—Christy Goldsmith Romero—has stated she will resign. This resignation would immediately open a second vacancy, further straining the CFTC’s operational capacity.

The CFTC will enter another prolonged selection process with no successor named for Romero. Staffing delays like these could hinder the agency’s ability to enforce and craft digital asset regulations. As a result, the commission’s regulatory authority could weaken during a period of rapid market evolution.

Crypto Regulation Slows as CFTC Shrinks

Extended confirmation timelines and pending resignations will likely leave the CFTC shorthanded for most of the year. One confirmed appointment will not resolve the broader staffing deficit as the agency prepares for another exit. Under these conditions, the commission’s ability to address emerging crypto regulation may slow.

Although a pro-crypto majority could emerge, staffing lags reduce short-term efficiency and coordination. Key enforcement actions and policy updates may face internal delays as fewer commissioners handle growing workloads. The CFTC needs immediate replacements to maintain its primary digital asset regulator role.

Until confirmations are completed, the CFTC remains in a transitional phase with reduced decision-making capacity. The agency’s influence over crypto market regulation will remain significant, but its momentum may temporarily weaken. Stable leadership and full staffing remain critical to its long-term effectiveness.

The post CFTC Faces Staffing Crisis as Pro-Crypto Commissioner Steps Down appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Donald Trump declared that the United States is ahead of China in the global crypto race.
• The United States currently holds over 198,000 Bitcoins, primarily through government seizures.
• China follows closely with nearly 190,000 Bitcoins but takes a more infrastructure-focused approach.
• Donald Trump confirmed plans to adopt Bitcoin as part of a national reserve strategy.
• The crypto market reacted to Trump’s statement with a slight increase in total market value.

Donald Trump declared that the United States leads China in the global crypto race, particularly in Bitcoin dominance. The President emphasized this while reinforcing his vision to make America a global crypto capital. This announcement followed recent developments in the escalating US-China economic rivalry.

Donald Trump Claims US Leads in Crypto

Donald Trump emphasized the US’s crypto leadership, supported by current federal Bitcoin reserves valued at over $20.5 billion. These reserves originated primarily from law enforcement seizures related to cybercrime and tax enforcement actions. Consequently, these strategic holdings significantly strengthened the nation’s crypto position.

President Trump just said that he is a "big fan of crypto"

And that The USA is leading China in crypto.

SEND EVERYTHING HIGHER 🚀 pic.twitter.com/nevA1b1YqU

— Gordon (@AltcoinGordon) May 14, 2025

In contrast, China’s crypto holdings stand at nearly 190,000 BTC, valued at around $19.7 billion based on current market rates. However, the US has continued to increase its Bitcoin reserves through ongoing operations and enforcement efforts. Donald Trump’s remarks highlight the country’s focus on expanding control over digital assets.

While the US secures Bitcoin through legal mechanisms, China focuses on blockchain infrastructure development. Yet, Trump insists the US now commands a stronger crypto foothold than China. Thus, the digital asset rivalry reflects broader economic competition between the two powers.

Bitcoin Emerges as a Strategic Reserve Asset

Donald Trump also reiterated plans to establish Bitcoin as a national reserve asset in the United States. This marks a major shift in the US financial framework and suggests stronger alignment with emerging digital trends. The statement arrives amid increased volatility in the global crypto market.

China also evaluates similar steps but maintains a more centralized and regulatory-heavy approach. While China aims to control blockchain innovation, the US accumulates crypto wealth through strategic acquisitions. Donald Trump positioned these differences as key factors in America’s crypto lead.

The US’s current approach combines technological adoption with strong enforcement capabilities. Donald Trump views this model as more effective than China’s rigid policies. Consequently, the administration seeks to reinforce this dominance by building further national reserves in Bitcoin.

Crypto Rises Amid US UK Agreement

Tensions between the US and China have influenced major fluctuations in crypto prices over the past week. After Donald Trump’s tariff policy announcement, the market dropped sharply but rebounded following easing talks. The recent rebound lifted the total crypto market cap to $3.34 trillion.

Donald Trump’s statement triggered a minor market uptick of 0.7%, signaling strong reactions to geopolitical developments. The US-UK economic agreement also contributed to recent shifts in market activity. As a result, the crypto sector remains sensitive to cross-border political strategies.

Donald Trump’s vision continues to impact the financial narrative and shapes how the US navigates digital transformation. While both nations explore Bitcoin reserves, their methods reflect their contrasting economic models.

The post US Quietly Builds Bitcoin Reserve: Donald Trump Reveals China’s Lag appeared first on CoinCentral.

• Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse emphasized that XRP can move value across borders in just three seconds.
• XRP is positioned as a practical tool for banks seeking real-time international transactions.
• Ripple’s model allows banks to avoid prefunding using XRP for on-demand liquidity in major currencies.
• XRP helps financial institutions reduce costs and free up capital by eliminating the need for multiple currency reserves.
• Unlike Bitcoin, XRP is optimized for speed and scalability, making it suitable for institutional financial operations.

Ripple continues to push the boundaries of blockchain innovation, with XRP emerging as a standout digital asset in cross-border finance. XRP’s role in accelerating transaction speeds is now central to Ripple’s strategy, especially in addressing global payment inefficiencies. In a video clip shared by Rowen Exchange on X, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse recently emphasized XRP’s unique capabilities.

XRP Powers Instant Transfers Across Borders

Ripple’s XRP facilitates value transfers in approximately three seconds, a significant advantage in the financial sector. This capability contrasts with Bitcoin (BTC), which can take over ten minutes for a single transaction. Consequently, XRP meets the demand for speed in financial operations.

Rapid transaction processing offers more than convenience; it directly supports real-time settlement in cross-border payments. This becomes crucial for banks managing liquidity across jurisdictions. Moreover, faster settlements contribute to reduced operational delays and improved financial coordination.

Garlinghouse underscored XRP’s role beyond speculative use, focusing on utility within institutional finance. XRP supports high-volume, low-latency transactions, making it scalable for global financial systems. In this context, it addresses real-time needs in sectors where transaction time is critical.

Brad Garlinghouse: "XRP moves value in seconds" pic.twitter.com/1eojAoATuY

— Rowen Exchange (@RowenExchange) May 14, 2025

Ripple Uses XRP to Unlock Bank Liquidity

Banks traditionally rely on prefunded accounts in various currencies to support cross-border payments. Ripple’s model, using XRP for on-demand liquidity, removes the need for such reserves. As a result, institutions can access liquidity denominated in major fiat currencies through XRP.

This system streamlines operations and enables institutions to move capital more efficiently across regions. It also frees up previously locked funds, improving overall cash flow management. Additionally, the model reduces dependency on intermediaries, which often increase transaction time and cost.

By offering real-time access to liquidity, XRP provides a more responsive and cost-effective method for international payments. Financial institutions benefit from both lower overhead and faster settlement cycles. Therefore, digital assets directly improve the infrastructure that supports global financial exchanges.

Bridging the Gap Between Banks

Ripple aims to bridge institutional payment networks by offering XRP as a bridge currency for seamless international transactions. This reduces the need to hold multiple currency reserves across borders. Furthermore, it promotes cost reduction and capital efficiency for participating banks.

Traditional methods for moving funds internationally remain slow and fragmented. Ripple’s solution, powered by XRP, addresses these inefficiencies through blockchain technology. The system ensures quicker settlements and transparent tracking throughout the transaction process.

The post XRP News: Ripple CEO Reveals What Makes XRP Faster Than Bitcoin in New Clip appeared first on CoinCentral.

• GD Culture Group announced a $300 million plan to invest in TRUMP token and Bitcoin.
• The funding will come from a stock purchase agreement with a British Virgin Islands-based investor.
• TRUMP token surged over 6 percent after the announcement, reversing its recent losses.
• The token has gained over 23 percent in the past week and nearly 62 percent in the past month.
• GDC aims to build a long-term crypto reserve by acquiring TRUMP and Bitcoin.

TRUMP token sharply rebounded after GD Culture Group announced it would allocate $300 million toward TRUMP and Bitcoin purchases. The Nasdaq-listed company confirmed this plan through an official filing, triggering renewed market momentum. TRUMP surged over 6% within 24 hours, reversing a 6% drop amid growing anticipation for the upcoming crypto dinner.

TRUMP Token Rebounds After GDC Funding News

GD Culture Group (GDC), a U.S.-listed firm with Chinese connections, plans to establish a major crypto reserve with TRUMP and Bitcoin. The company confirmed using funds from a stock purchase agreement with a British Virgin Islands-based partner. The partner pledged up to $300 million, which GDC will deploy to acquire TRUMP and Bitcoin.

The announcement’s timing coincided with TRUMP’s recovery from a recent downtrend, helping the memecoin regain momentum. TRUMP had dropped to a low of $12.22 but climbed to $13.55 following the news. Market watchers attributed the 6.11% daily rise to renewed confidence sparked by GDC’s investment plan.

TRUMP’s weekly and monthly charts also reflected strong growth, rising 23.28% in seven days and 61.8% over a month. The token traded between $13 and $14 recently, hitting a weekly high of $15.07. GDC’s plan contributed significantly to this performance, reinforcing positive sentiment ahead of the high-profile crypto dinner.

Bitcoin Also Benefits from GDC’s Crypto Reserve Strategy

Alongside TRUMP, Bitcoin will form a major part of GDC’s long-term reserve strategy using the $300 million raised. The firm clarified that part of the proceeds would support general corporate needs, but with a primary focus on crypto assets. This dual acquisition approach highlights Bitcoin’s continued role as a reserve asset.

Although Bitcoin did not experience the same spike as TRUMP, the announcement reinforced its status in corporate treasury strategies. Market data showed steady price action, with slight gains following GDC’s disclosure. The move underscored GDC’s intent to diversify into leading and emerging digital assets.

Bitcoin’s inclusion suggests GDC aims to balance TRUMP’s volatility with Bitcoin’s relative market stability. While TRUMP responds sharply to news and events, Bitcoin remains a broader benchmark. This combination may help GDC optimize both short-term gains and long-term positioning.

TRUMP Crypto Dinner Builds Momentum for Token Surge

Scheduled for May 22, the TRUMP crypto dinner will host 220 top TRUMP holders in a private meeting with Donald Trump. The exclusive nature of the event has already fueled market attention, acting as a catalyst for TRUMP’s recent gains. Analysts expect stronger movement in the days leading up to the event.

After the dinner confirmation, the TRUMP token’s rally began earlier this month, and GDC’s investment added further strength to its trend. The event continues to attract high interest due to its exclusivity and proximity to major token developments.

Market participants remain focused on TRUMP’s near-term trajectory as hype surrounding the dinner intensifies. While the memecoin market remains volatile, TRUMP is positioned for further upward action amid growing institutional interest. GDC’s funding has added credibility to the token’s rise, setting the stage for a pivotal week.

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