Global crypto adoption is accelerating, led by surging interest in memecoins, while the UK emerges as the leading country for crypto adoption. Major players like Blockchain.com and MetaMask pursue expansion in emerging markets. Regulatory momentum is building worldwide with advances in stablecoin legislation, tax reform debates, and heightened scrutiny of crypto service providers, while security concerns remain acute amid a spate of high-profile crypto-related crimes and law enforcement crackdowns in Europe, the US, and Asia. Innovation continues apace as firms launch AI-powered trading tools, institutional infrastructure, and real-world asset integrations, signaling both broadening engagement and intensifying competition within the sector.
According to Gemini's latest report, global crypto ownership increased in 2025, with the UK emerging as the leading country for adoption. The study identifies memecoins as a major entry point for new investors, fueling deeper engagement in the market. This memecoin-driven trend is playing a significant role in attracting newcomers and accelerating worldwide crypto adoption.
Blockchain.com is increasing its footprint in Africa, focusing on markets like Nigeria where governments are formalizing crypto regulations. The UK-based exchange plans to open a physical office in Nigeria as part of its regional push.
MetaMask co-founder Dan Finlay outlines the company's strategy to reach a much larger audience and attract new users to its platform.
DappRadar suggests that linking real-world assets with NFTs could help revive the struggling NFT lending sector, which is currently experiencing a significant drop in volumes and user activity.
Taurus and Parafin have joined forces to provide blockchain infrastructure for financial institutions in Europe and Latin America, aiming to boost adoption of crypto custody and settlement solutions.
Prometheum is positioning itself for the US tokenization boom by acquiring a broker-dealer and launching a registered digital transfer agent, aiming to offer a fully regulated solution for digital asset securities.
OKX's restructuring of its legal and compliance team continues with the departure of global general counsel Melissa Muehlfeld. This move marks the latest in a series of high-profile exits from the exchange's legal department.
Cobie's Echo has launched Sonar, a new ICO platform. Its first project, Plasma, is offering 10% of its XPL token supply, aiming to raise $50 million at a $500 million token valuation.
BingX, a leading crypto exchange and Web3 AI company, has announced BingAI, an AI-powered trading assistant designed to revolutionize crypto trading. The new tool aims to enhance user experience and trading efficiency with artificial intelligence.
The U.S. Senate is nearing a breakthrough on the GENIUS Act, a significant stablecoin regulation bill, with Sen. Cynthia Lummis emphasizing the challenges in its advancement. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump's nominee for CFTC chair, Brian Quintenz, has disclosed $3.4 million in assets and connections to crypto organizations, demonstrating transparency as he seeks the regulatory position. These developments signal growing momentum and scrutiny in U.S. crypto regulation. Both events highlight the evolving landscape of oversight and leadership in the digital asset sector.
Australia's corporate regulator has initiated civil penalty proceedings against Liang (Allan) Guo, former director of the failed crypto exchange Blockchain Global, alleging multiple breaches of director duties.
Thailand plans to allow tourists to spend cryptocurrency via credit card-linked platforms and is considering regulatory reforms to modernize its financial system and embrace digital assets.
India's crypto industry is lobbying for significant tax cuts as the government appears to be considering a softer stance on digital assets. Industry leaders hope these changes could revive the sector and encourage growth.
Luxembourg's 2025 National Risk Assessment classifies virtual asset service providers as high-risk entities for money laundering, citing concerns over the crypto sector's exposure to financial crime.
US Representative Bryan Steil urges lawmakers to avoid adding unrelated provisions to key crypto bills, arguing that such additions delay the establishment of a regulatory framework for the industry.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi drive the UAE’s strategic rise as a leader in Web3 and AI, marking a shift from oil to technology. The nation’s approach highlights its ambition to become a global innovation hub in emerging digital sectors.
The Bank of Korea is exploring the use of stablecoins issued by private entities, with its deputy governor warning that increased adoption could threaten monetary sovereignty and financial stability.
Thailand is planning to streamline payments for foreigners by introducing crypto-linked credit cards, while ensuring merchants receive payments in local currency. The country is also looking to merge crypto legislation for greater efficiency.
South Korean authorities arrested one of three Russian nationals accused of attempting to rob Korean investors during a fake crypto deal in Seoul. The suspects allegedly lured victims to a hotel and tried to steal $730,000. Two suspects remain at large.
French authorities have arrested over 12 individuals, including minors, in connection with two high-profile crypto kidnapping cases in Paris, marking a significant move against crypto-related crime in the country. Meanwhile, a third suspect has surrendered to law enforcement in New York City for the kidnapping, torture, and attempted extortion of an Italian tourist, underscoring persistent security risks for crypto investors. These developments highlight growing law enforcement action against kidnappings tied to cryptocurrencies in major global cities.
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