A week after committing to free speech, Meta blocks decentralized competitor
In a recent move that has sparked controversy and criticism, Facebook, led by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, has been aggressively removing any links to competing platforms from its social media network. This comes just days after Zuckerberg declared a commitment to “More Speech and Fewer Mistakes” across all of Facebook’s platforms.
The decision to censor links to competing platforms has raised concerns about Facebook’s monopoly over the social media landscape and its impact on free speech. Many have accused the company of using its dominant position to stifle competition and limit users’ access to alternative platforms.
This move by Facebook is not the first time the company has faced backlash for its censorship practices. In the past, the platform has been accused of silencing voices and suppressing content that goes against its own agenda. This latest action only adds fuel to the fire and raises questions about the company’s true intentions.
Critics argue that Facebook’s actions go against the very principles of free speech and open communication that it claims to uphold. By limiting access to competing platforms, the company is essentially controlling the flow of information and limiting users’ choices.
Moreover, this move also highlights the growing concern over the power and influence of big tech companies like Facebook. With their vast user base and control over the online space, these companies have the ability to shape public discourse and control the narrative.
As the debate over free speech and censorship continues to rage on, it is clear that Facebook’s actions have far-reaching implications. Whether the company will face any consequences for its actions remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the battle for free speech and open communication in the digital age is far from over.
US election another ‘buy the rumor, buy the news’ event for BTC: Pantera
The Wall Street adage of “buy the rumor, sell the news” didn’t apply to the launch of US spot Bitcoin ETFs last year, and it won’t apply to President Trump’s inauguration next week.
Crypto ETPs record $47M inflows last week amid Bitcoin sell-off
The recent US election may have brought a temporary sense of relief and stability to the markets, but it seems that the honeymoon period is now over. According to James Butterfill, Investment Strategist at CoinShares, macroeconomic data is once again taking the lead in driving the performance of crypto Exchange Traded Products (ETPs).
Butterfill points out that during the post-election period, the focus was primarily on political developments and their potential impact on the markets. However, as the dust settles and the new administration takes office, investors are once again turning their attention to economic indicators and their influence on the crypto market.
This shift in focus is evident in the recent performance of crypto ETPs, which have seen a decline in inflows and a decrease in overall market value. Butterfill explains that this is due to the correlation between traditional markets and crypto assets, as economic data such as inflation and interest rates can have a significant impact on both.
Butterfill also notes that the recent surge in Bitcoin’s price was largely driven by institutional investors seeking a hedge against inflation and a store of value. However, as economic data suggests a potential rise in inflation, these investors may now be turning to traditional assets such as gold, causing a decrease in demand for crypto assets.
Despite this temporary setback, Butterfill remains optimistic about the long-term prospects of crypto ETPs. He believes that as the global economy continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, investors will once again turn to crypto assets as a means of diversification and potential growth.
In conclusion, while the post-election period may have brought a brief respite for the crypto market, it seems that economic data is once again taking center stage. As the world continues to navigate through uncertain times, it will be interesting to see how the performance of crypto ETPs evolves and adapts to changing market conditions.
World announces 10 million users verified on World Network
The World project has recently achieved a major milestone, but it still faces challenges in the form of regulatory hurdles in various jurisdictions. This innovative project has been making waves in the financial world, offering a decentralized platform for global transactions and investments. However, as with any groundbreaking technology, there are bound to be obstacles along the way.
Despite its success, World has not been immune to the regulatory landscape. In fact, navigating the complex and ever-changing regulations in different countries has been a major hurdle for the project. This is not surprising, as the traditional financial system is heavily regulated and any new player in the market is subject to scrutiny and compliance requirements.
One of the main challenges for World has been obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals to operate in different jurisdictions. This process can be time-consuming and costly, and it requires a deep understanding of the local regulations and compliance standards. Additionally, the project has had to adapt to the varying levels of acceptance and openness towards blockchain technology in different countries.
Despite these challenges, World has made significant progress and has successfully obtained licenses in several key markets. This is a testament to the team’s dedication and expertise in navigating the regulatory landscape. However, there is still work to be done as the project continues to expand its reach and offer its services to a global audience.
In conclusion, while World has reached a significant milestone, it is important to acknowledge the regulatory hurdles that the project has faced and continues to face. These challenges are not unique to World, but they serve as a reminder of the importance of compliance and regulation in the financial world. With its innovative approach and determination, World is well-equipped to overcome these obstacles and continue to revolutionize the way we think about global transactions and investments.
Blockchain is the best fintech to ensure Sharia ethics — Web3 exec
Mohemed AlKaff AlHashmi, a prominent Islamic finance expert, recently discussed the impact of value-accrual mechanisms on the compliance of digital assets with Islamic Sharia Law. In his view, the way a token’s value is accrued can determine whether it is considered halal (permissible) or haram (prohibited) under Islamic principles.
According to AlHashmi, the key factor in determining the compliance of a digital asset with Sharia Law is its value-accrual mechanism. This refers to the way in which the value of a token is generated and distributed to its holders. In traditional finance, this would be equivalent to the interest earned on a loan or the dividends received from a stock.
In the world of digital assets, value-accrual mechanisms can take various forms, such as staking rewards, transaction fees, or even a fixed supply that creates scarcity and drives up the token’s value. However, not all of these mechanisms are considered halal under Islamic principles.
For example, staking rewards, where users earn a return for holding their tokens in a specific wallet, may be seen as a form of riba (usury) and therefore prohibited. Similarly, transaction fees that are charged for the use of a digital asset may also be considered haram, as they can be seen as a form of gharar (uncertainty) and maysir (gambling).
On the other hand, a fixed supply mechanism, where the total number of tokens is limited and cannot be increased, may be deemed halal as it creates scarcity and does not involve any form of interest or uncertainty.
AlHashmi emphasized the importance of understanding the value-accrual mechanisms of digital assets before investing in them, especially for Muslim investors who must ensure their investments are in line with their religious beliefs. He also highlighted the need for more education and guidance in this area to help Muslim investors navigate the world of digital assets.
In conclusion, the compliance of a digital asset with Islamic Sharia Law depends on its value-accrual mechanisms, and investors must carefully consider these mechanisms before investing to ensure their investments are halal. With the growing popularity of digital assets, it is crucial for the Islamic finance industry to provide more guidance and clarity on this topic to cater to the needs of Muslim investors.
Singapore blocks access to Polymarket over unlicensed gambling concerns
Singapore users are facing a major setback as they are unable to access Polymarket, a popular prediction market platform. This has caused an uproar among the users, who are claiming that the platform has been blocked by the authorities. According to reports, the reason behind this blockage is the Gambling Control Act 2022, which prohibits betting with unlicensed operators.
Polymarket, a decentralized prediction market platform, allows users to bet on the outcome of various events, such as political elections, sports matches, and even cryptocurrency prices. It has gained a lot of popularity in recent years, especially among the tech-savvy and crypto community in Singapore. However, the recent blockage has left many users disappointed and frustrated.
The Gambling Control Act 2022 was introduced to regulate and control the gambling industry in Singapore. It requires all operators to obtain a license from the authorities in order to offer their services to the public. This is to ensure that the operators are following strict guidelines and regulations to protect the interests of the users. However, Polymarket does not fall under the category of traditional gambling, as it operates on a decentralized platform and does not involve any physical or monetary transactions.
The users are now questioning the decision to block Polymarket, as they believe it does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Gambling Control Act. They argue that the platform is simply a prediction market and does not involve any form of gambling. Many are also concerned about the impact this blockage will have on the growth of the prediction market industry in Singapore.
The authorities have not yet released an official statement regarding the blockage of Polymarket. However, the users are hopeful that the issue will be resolved soon and they will be able to access the platform again. In the meantime, they are exploring alternative prediction market platforms and keeping a close eye on any updates from the authorities.
Bitcoin analysts explain why BTC could avoid a drop under $90K
The world of cryptocurrency has been buzzing with excitement as Bitcoin continues to break records and reach new heights. With its recent surge above $90,000, many are wondering what is driving this incredible rise in value. While there are a variety of factors at play, one of the most significant is the presence of Bitcoin whales.
These whales, or individuals and organizations that hold large amounts of Bitcoin, have a significant impact on the market. As they buy and sell large quantities of the cryptocurrency, their actions can cause significant fluctuations in price. In recent months, there has been an increase in the number of Bitcoin whales, which has contributed to the overall rise in value.
But it’s not just the whales that are driving the price of Bitcoin. There has also been a surge in speculative appetite among investors, with many seeing the potential for huge returns in the cryptocurrency market. This increased demand has further fueled the rise in Bitcoin’s value, as more and more people are looking to get in on the action.
In addition to these internal factors, there are also macroeconomic factors at play. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and economic uncertainty, many investors are turning to alternative assets like Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation and market volatility. This increased demand for Bitcoin has helped to keep its price above $90,000 and shows no signs of slowing down.
So what does this all mean for the future of Bitcoin? While it’s impossible to predict with certainty, many experts believe that the cryptocurrency will continue to rise in value as more people and institutions adopt it as a legitimate form of currency. With the presence of Bitcoin whales, increased speculative appetite, and macroeconomic factors all working in its favor, it’s no surprise that Bitcoin is breaking records and capturing the attention of the world.
Bitcoin’s outlook remains bullish despite macro setback: Grayscale
As the world eagerly awaits the upcoming US presidential inauguration, many are speculating about the potential impact it could have on various industries and markets. One area that has caught the attention of investors and analysts is the cryptocurrency market, with some experts predicting a positive outcome.
According to a recent statement from a leading asset manager, the US presidential inauguration could serve as a catalyst for the cryptocurrency market. This comes as no surprise, as the cryptocurrency market has been on a steady rise in recent months, with Bitcoin reaching all-time highs and other altcoins following suit.
The asset manager believes that the new administration’s policies and initiatives could have a positive impact on the cryptocurrency market. With the incoming administration’s focus on economic stimulus and infrastructure development, there is a strong possibility that this could lead to increased adoption and investment in cryptocurrencies.
Furthermore, the asset manager also pointed out that the current economic climate, with low interest rates and a weakening US dollar, could also contribute to the growth of the cryptocurrency market. As investors look for alternative assets to protect their wealth and hedge against inflation, cryptocurrencies could emerge as a viable option.
However, it’s worth noting that there are also some concerns surrounding the potential impact of the new administration on the cryptocurrency market. Some experts believe that increased regulation and government intervention could hinder the growth of the market. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the US Senate runoff elections in Georgia could also affect the market’s performance.
Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many investors and analysts anticipating a bright future for the cryptocurrency market. As the world watches the US presidential inauguration, all eyes will be on the cryptocurrency market, waiting to see how it will be affected and what opportunities it may bring.
Solana poised for 2025 rally, Fetch.ai launches $10M fund: Finance Redefined
Solana, the fast-growing cryptocurrency, is quickly gaining popularity among retail investors. This surge in interest has led analysts to predict another year of significant gains for the digital asset. With the highly anticipated launch of the first US spot SOL ETF on the horizon, the future looks bright for Solana.
One of the main reasons for Solana’s rise in popularity is its impressive performance in the market. In just a few short years, it has become one of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, surpassing well-established coins like Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash. This growth has caught the attention of investors, who are now flocking to Solana in search of potential profits.
But what sets Solana apart from other cryptocurrencies? One of its key strengths is its lightning-fast transaction speed. While other popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum can take minutes or even hours to process transactions, Solana can do it in a matter of seconds. This makes it an attractive option for retail investors who are looking for a more efficient and user-friendly cryptocurrency.
Another factor contributing to Solana’s popularity is its innovative technology. The Solana blockchain uses a unique consensus mechanism called Proof of History, which allows for faster and more secure transactions. This has made it a favorite among developers, who are building a wide range of decentralized applications (dApps) on the Solana network.
With the upcoming launch of the first US spot SOL ETF, Solana is poised for even more growth and adoption. This ETF will make it easier for retail investors to gain exposure to Solana, further driving up demand for the cryptocurrency. As more people discover the benefits of Solana, it’s likely that its value will continue to rise, making it an attractive investment opportunity.
In conclusion, Solana’s impressive performance, innovative technology, and upcoming ETF launch have all contributed to its growing popularity among retail investors. With the potential for significant gains in the future, it’s no wonder that Solana is quickly becoming the preferred cryptocurrency for many.
How validator compromises threaten DeFi security
Validators play a crucial role in the functioning of Proof-of-Stake (PoS) blockchains. They are responsible for validating transactions and maintaining the integrity of the network. However, as with any system, there are potential risks and challenges that can arise when relying on validators.
One of the main concerns with validators is the issue of centralization. In a PoS system, validators are chosen based on the amount of cryptocurrency they hold. This means that those with a larger stake have a higher chance of being selected as a validator. While this may seem fair, it can lead to a concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals or entities. This can potentially compromise the decentralization and security of the network, as these validators may collude or act in their own self-interest.
Another challenge for validators is the risk of compromise. As they are responsible for validating transactions, they are also a prime target for hackers. If a validator’s system is compromised, it can lead to fraudulent transactions being approved and potentially harm the network’s integrity. This not only affects the validators themselves, but also the users who rely on the network for secure and trustworthy transactions.
To address these concerns, some PoS blockchains have implemented measures such as random selection of validators and penalties for malicious behavior. However, these solutions are not foolproof and there is still a need for continuous monitoring and improvement.
The integrity and security of validators are crucial for maintaining user trust in PoS blockchains. Without trust, the value and adoption of these networks can be greatly affected. It is important for developers and stakeholders to constantly evaluate and improve the system to ensure the reliability and decentralization of validators.
In conclusion, while validators are essential for the functioning of PoS blockchains, there are challenges and risks that need to be addressed. By promoting decentralization and implementing effective security measures, we can ensure the integrity of validators and maintain the trust of users in these networks.