Star Sightings: Sutton Foster, The Weeknd and More Celebs

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December 20, 2024

Missed Bitcoin’s Rise? Here’s What You Should Know

by
Victoria d’Este

Published: December 20, 2024 at 10:00 am Updated: December 20, 2024 at 10:00 am

by Ana

Edited and fact-checked:
December 20, 2024 at 10:00 am

In Brief

Bitcoin’s recent surge to $100,000 raises questions about its future for investors as its volatility continues to keep them on edge.

With Bitcoin soaring past $100,000, what does this mean for everyday investors? Is it a final boarding call, or has the ship already sailed?

Once worth nothing at its 2009 launch, Bitcoin’s meteoric rise continues. After doubling its value in 2024 and shattering records at $107,000, its appeal remains undeniable—yet its volatility keeps seasoned and new investors on edge.

For those watching from the sidelines, the question lingers: “Is this just the beginning of a new era or a peak before the fall?”

Bitcoin Past $100K to Touch $107K

An absolutely remarkable rise has occurred. With Trump’s victory, the value of Bitcoin has skyrocketed, more than doubling this year.

It’s not hard to understand. Trump campaigned on a platform to make the United States “the world’s crypto capital” by reversing President Joe Biden’s harsh enforcement policies and appointing softer authorities.

Indeed, bitcoin surpassed $100,000 after Trump’s appointment of crypto advocate Paul Atkins as the next head of the SEC earlier, giving the sector optimism about a more accommodating Wall Street regulator.

The idea of a crypto “strategic reserve,” which Trump has put forth, could see the United States becoming an investor in cryptocurrencies directly. A crypto enterprise even has his family’s financial interests.

Inevitable Volatility Ahead

The swiftness of the bitcoin rally over the past couple of weeks has investors hoping for further gains. But they’re not just optimistic because of Trump and the Republican Congress.

Traders are hoping for more wins because of how quickly Bitcoin has gone up in value over the last couple of weeks. However, their optimism is due to more than simply Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress.

Since Gensler grudgingly authorized the establishment of investment funds linked to Bitcoin (referred to as ETFs) earlier this year, bitcoin has been steadily gaining popularity.

With total assets over $100 billion, these funds have clearly been successful. Bitcoin’s demand is on the rise because of it.

Having said that, cryptocurrency prices may be quite unpredictable. Better Markets’ president and CEO, Dennis Kelleher, is concerned that regular people may fall for fraud with the promise of wealth.

He recently pointed out that among all the billionaire crypto supporters, you may find some who do anything from “money laundering to financing terrorists.”

FOMO After Bitcoin Surge

With all this excitement, investors may be asking whether now is a good time to invest in Bitcoin.

Nigel Green, CEO of global financial advice company deVere Group, stated that some degree of “FOMO” is inevitable, as BTC has turned into a “global mainstream,” attracting high-profile investors.

Michael Saylor, the CEO of the largest market maker on Wall Street has just become optimistic on bitcoin, saying that he should have bought in sooner, just as the price of bitcoin is bracing for another major shock.

Ken Griffin, founder of Citadel Securities, stated in a recent conference that he also missed out on BTC, an asset that “trades at 100x” of its price just a few years ago. Nobody is immune to FOMO or the fear of missing out. It’s a fundamental aspect of the human psyche, and it’s simply… there.

Griffin said that he would do everything in his power “to help support” the newly elected president of the United States, Donald Trump. He also mentioned that the cryptocurrency market and bitcoin prices are soaring as Trump gets ready for his second term in office, likely due to the increased need for “agency” in people’s lives.

Is Now a Good Time to Invest in Bitcoin?

Bitcoin has surged astronomically, currently touching $107K, growing +7K just in the last five days.

Those who are still unsure or suffering from FOMO and believe they must act quickly to get a better investment opportunity might be debating whether to buy coins like Bitcoin now or wait for prices to drop.

NerdWallet’s Elizabeth Ayoola believes that while crypto is volatile, Bitcoin can go even higher, and we don’t know “how much higher” it may rise.

A lot of people think Bitcoin’s value will keep going up. Talking to Fortune, Anthony Scaramucci, creator of Skybridge, suggested that Bitcoin might surpass $170,000 by mid-2025. Along similar lines, Cathie Wood, CEO of Ark Invest, projected that Bitcoin would reach close to $1.5 million by 2030.

Scaramucci also stated that BTC is here to stay, and will eventually turn into a “long-term” choice in investment portfolios.

How to Invest in Bitcoin

So, it’s not too late to invest in Bitcoin, no matter the size of your capital. There are several standard strategies:

Directly Buy BTC

Cryptocurrency exchanges like Binance.US, Coinbase, or Kraken allow you to purchase bitcoin. Making a “crypto wallet” is the first step in storing your fractional Bitcoin holdings. The amount of Bitcoin you will get will be quite little until your investment is in the $100,000 area.

Use Stockbrokers

Stockbrokers like E-Trade provide the option to invest in Bitcoin and other coins. Also, there are cheap entry points; for example, on Robinhood, you can purchase a fraction of a Bitcoin or any cryptocurrency for as little as $1.

Go for ETFs

Another option to invest in cryptocurrency, similar to purchasing stocks, is via these exchange-traded funds (ETFs) from financial organizations like Blackrock and Fidelity. The SEC authorized these ETFs early this year. Again, the amount you put in is entirely up to you.

Investing in Bitcoin Past the $100K Mark

Anytime you decide to invest in Bitcoin, you should think about how it fits into your overall business plan. Most financial experts suggest having a broad portfolio with about 5% in cryptocurrencies.

If you’re more comfortable with risk, however, you may want to consult a financial advisor before putting all your eggs in the cryptocurrency basket. Even while Bitcoin is trending upwards at the moment, it doesn’t mean that its value won’t fall in the next week or month. Therefore, you shouldn’t deposit funds that you’ll need soon.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author

Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.

More articles

Victoria d’Este

Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.

The Explosive Rise of Crypto Theft in 2024 with North Korea Leading the Charge

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December 20, 2024

The Explosive Rise of Crypto Theft in 2024 with North Korea Leading the Charge

by
Victoria d’Este

Published: December 20, 2024 at 9:56 am Updated: December 20, 2024 at 9:56 am

by Ana

Edited and fact-checked:
December 20, 2024 at 9:56 am

In Brief

North Korean hackers stole $2.2 billion worth of cryptocurrency assets in 2024, posing a growing threat to global security and the crypto industry.

The cryptocurrency industry saw a tragic turning point in 2024 when hackers took advantage of flaws to steal digital assets valued at $2.2 billion. Of them, North Korean hackers were the most powerful, accounting for $1.3 billion of the money that was taken. An increasing threat to the crypto business and global security is highlighted by the fact that, according to Chainalysis, the value stolen by North Korea-affiliated entities has increased by 102.88% since 2023.

Photo: Chainalysis

The Increasing Trend of Digital Theft

The sector has always struggled with crypto theft, with some years witnessing historically high amounts of money taken. Due to a rise in the frequency and intensity of hacking attacks, the total amount taken in 2024 increased by more than 21% over the previous year. Reports of breaches increased from 282 in 2023 to 303 in total, underscoring the industry’s ongoing vulnerability.

Photo: Chainalysis

In 2024, hacking activities took a different course. Crypto theft totaled $1.58 billion between January and July, an 84.4% rise over the same period in 2023. At first, analysts thought 2024 may be in line with the record-breaking years of 2021 and 2022, when more than $3 billion was stolen every year. However, following the middle of the year, hacking instances substantially decreased, indicating the possibility of outside influences.

Target Shift: Centralized Platforms vs. DeFi

Hackers have historically targeted decentralized finance networks primarily because of their quick development cycles and sometimes inadequate security mechanisms. Most stolen assets in early 2024 were attributed to DeFi. The second and third quarters of the year saw a discernible change, nevertheless, with centralized systems taking the brunt of attacks.

This tendency is seen in two major breaches: the $234.9 million loss from WazirX in July and the $305 million hack of DMM Bitcoin in May. These occurrences highlight centralized services’ weaknesses, especially in relation to private key management. Private key compromises were the most frequent attack vector in 2024, accounting for 43.8% of all crypto thefts.

Photo: Chainalysis

An essential part of security are private keys, which provide access to users’ money. The DMM Bitcoin hack shows that any compromise may have disastrous results. In addition to causing financial loss, the exchange’s failure to sufficiently safeguard its private keys ultimately resulted in its shutdown later that year.

A Major Participant in Crypto Hacking – North Korea

The widespread theft of cryptocurrencies has come to be associated with North Korean hackers. They were the most common actors in the space in 2024, accounting for 61% of the total amount taken. The $1.3 billion that was taken in 47 attacks is a substantial increase above the $660.5 million that was taken in 20 hacks in 2023. Pyongyang’s dependence on cryptocurrency theft to finance its weapons programs and get around international sanctions is reflected in this spike in activity.

Photo: Chainalysis

North Korean hackers have developed increasingly complex strategies. They carried out large-scale exploits more frequently in 2024, more often aiming for sums over $50 million than in prior years. They also broadened their scope to cover hacks on a lesser scale, aiming for amounts as little as $10,000.

Photo: Chainalysis

Cyber Espionage and Infiltration of the Workforce

The infiltration of crypto firms by North Korean IT professionals is a development concern. To obtain access to critical networks, these agents employ fictitious identities, third-party agents, and distant employment possibilities. In one well-known instance, 14 citizens of North Korea were charged with stealing $88 million using these kinds of techniques. In order to stop such breaches, these strategies emphasize the necessity of rigorous staff screening and strong cybersecurity procedures.

The first half of 2024 saw a sharp increase in North Korean cyber activity, but after July, it significantly decreased. A geopolitical event—a summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin—coincided with this decrease. North Korea’s hacking activities seemed to change after the meeting, as evidenced by a 53.73% decrease in the daily worth of stolen cash. However, within the same time frame, there was a modest rise in hacking activities by non-North Koreans.

Photo: Chainalysis

The causes of this deterioration are yet unknown. It’s possible that North Korea shifted funds to assist its military partnership with Russia, which has included sending ballistic missiles and people to Ukraine. On the other hand, the delay may be the result of a strategic change in Pyongyang’s cyber activities.

The DMM Bitcoin Breach Case Study

Among the most important events of 2024 was the $305 million DMM Bitcoin breach. North Korean hackers stole 4,502.9 Bitcoin by taking advantage of holes in the exchange’s system that allowed them to get private keys without authorization. After being laundered through mixing services, the stolen money was subsequently moved to platforms connected to the Huione Group, a cybercrime-affiliated company based in Cambodia.

Photo: Chainalysis

This violation has serious repercussions. With the goal of finishing the transformation by 2025, DMM Bitcoin halted operations and transferred its assets to SBI VC Trade. The incident emphasizes the necessity for proactive defenses against such assaults and the disastrous effects of inadequate security measures.

Predictive Models and Crypto Security’s Future

Predictive technology developments give promise in the fight against cryptocurrency theft. The purchase of Web3 security company Hexagate by Chainalysis is a big step in the direction of proactive threat detection. Real-time blockchain activity analysis is done by Hexagate’s machine learning algorithms, which spot questionable trends and possible attacks before they happen.

For instance, two days before the assault, Hexagate discovered a contract connected to a $20 million UwU Lend vulnerability. The early identification shows the potential of such technologies to avert financial losses, even though the link to the ultimate attack was not immediately apparent.

Despite these developments, predictive models’ efficacy hinges on how well they are incorporated into current security systems. To ensure that such dangers are eliminated before they become more serious, protocols must be outfitted with the instruments required to respond to early alerts.

The surge in crypto theft in 2024 emphasizes how urgently improved security measures are needed. Addressing the changing threat landscape requires a cooperative strategy combining regulators, law enforcement, and industry players. A thorough security plan must include solid private key management, sophisticated tracing capabilities, and real-time monitoring.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author

Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.

More articles

Victoria d’Este

Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.

Dogecoin to Turn $500 Into $5000 with a 10x Rally, But This $0.15 Coin Will Flip It Into $20500 with a 41x Mega Pump

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December 20, 2024

Dogecoin to Turn 0 Into 00 with a 10x Rally, But This alt=

by
Gregory Pudovsky

Published: December 20, 2024 at 9:52 am Updated: December 20, 2024 at 9:52 am

Dogecoin to Turn $500 Into $5000 with a 10x Rally, But This $0.15 Coin Will Flip It Into $20500 with a 41x Mega Pump

The recent 250% surge from Dogecoin has inspired hope and experts are projecting a 10x gain, turning $500 into $5000. However, emerging star Rexas Finance promises a 41x huge pump, potentially converting $250 into $20500 and outpacing the memecoin boom. With enormous presale success, ground-breaking features, and upcoming listings, Rexas Finance emerges as the project to watch this cycle.

Flip $250 Into $20500 with Rexas Finance

Rexas Finance has gained attention as the Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenization ecosystem positioned to revolutionize decentralized finance (DeFi). At its foundation, Rexas Finance permits the tokenization of actual and intangible assets such as real estate, art, and financial instruments, thereby breaking down investment boundaries and empowering global participation. Individual investors, small enterprises, and blockchain initiatives can all benefit from Rexas Finance’s comprehensive platform and innovative solutions. Rexas Finance has been one of the best seen in the sector in recent years. The project has raised $28.5 million by selling 359 million RXS tokens through nine presale rounds, and Stage 10 is now 92% sold. After a 400% surge from its first stage listing price of $0.03, each RXS token is now priced at $0.15, with an expected increase to $0.175 in Stage 11. Following the presale, RXS will be listed on at least three of the top ten cryptocurrency exchanges at $0.20 per token.

The recent Certik’s audit certification strengthens investor confidence in Rexas Finance by ensuring the project’s smart contract security and compliance. The $1 million giveaway campaign adds to the excitement, with 20 winners receiving $50,000 in RXS tokens apiece. These benefits, together with the project’s creative environment, make Rexas Finance an enticing option for both novice and experienced cryptocurrency aficionados.

The ecosystem’s features include the Rexas Token Builder, which allows for no-code token production for cryptocurrency and NFTs, as well as the QuickMint Bot, which allows for instant token creation via Telegram and Discord. Advanced technologies like Rexas AI Shield provide unrivaled protection with AI-driven audits and real-time monitoring. In contrast, Rexas GenAI transforms NFT creation by generating original AI-driven artwork. In addition, Rexas Treasury optimizes yield farming through automated tactics, and the Rexas Launchpad encourages new blockchain firms. Each tool exemplifies Rexas Finance’s commitment to democratizing blockchain technology and providing excellent value. With scheduled listings on top-tier exchanges, analysts expect an explosive post-listing surge, with probable price forecasts ranging from $10 to $15 in the first quarter of trade. This corresponds to returns greater than 41x for early-stage investors, representing a dramatic possibility to turn $250 into $20500.

Dogecoin to Convert $500 into $5000

Dogecoin’s bullish fractal suggests an 85% rally, echoing patterns exhibited during its legendary 2021 run. Dogecoin’s consolidation phases have traditionally preceded significant breakouts, and the present price action matches its pattern before the 8,000% surge in 2021. Analysts predict that if the current trend continues, DOGE’s price will grow from $0.39 to $4 by January 2025, representing a 10x return for investors starting at $500.

Key indicators support this forecast. Dogecoin’s weekly Relative Strength Index (RSI) has just entered overbought territory above 70, which frequently indicates either corrections or sustained rises. Similar overbought conditions in 2021 encouraged more bullish momentum rather than causing downturns.

The ongoing whale accumulation increases confidence in Dogecoin’s trajectory. Messari’s on-chain data shows that addresses with 1 million DOGE or more now have 130.2 billion DOGE, a record high. This indicator reflects substantial whale confidence, replicating accumulation trends throughout the 2021 rise, which saw whale addresses increase holdings from 110.3 billion to 112.5 billion DOGE.

Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s influence remains crucial. His affiliation with Dogecoin has previously resulted in significant price increases. Recently, Musk’s appointment to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has revived attention. While hilariously linked to Dogecoin’s ticker, this development has rejuvenated community sentiment and increased investor demand.

Dogecoin’s rise is also boosted by broader market optimism. With Bitcoin’s recovery and an increasing appetite among crypto investors for high-risk, high-reward investments, meme coins like DOGE stand to benefit disproportionately during hot periods. If Dogecoin achieves its expected surge, converting $500 into $5000 will be possible. The meme coin’s simple yet powerful strategy, paired with whale activity and Musk’s ongoing support, sets it poised for another potentially explosive cycle.

Conclusion

Despite whale activity and Elon Musk’s influence, Dogecoin’s capacity to generate significant returns demonstrates its long-term appeal. A 10x surge might result in substantial rewards for investors, cementing its status as a top-tier memecoin. Meanwhile, Rexas Finance’s unrivaled presale success and creative ecosystem promise dramatic results. With listings on major exchanges and a projected 41x growth rate, Rexas Finance symbolizes the future of blockchain investment. Investors looking for high-growth potential should keep an eye on Rexas Finance.

For more information about Rexas Finance (RXS) visit the links below:

Website: https://rexas.com

Win $1 Million Giveaway: https://bit.ly/Rexas1M

Whitepaper: https://rexas.com/rexas-whitepaper.pdf

Twitter/X: https://x.com/rexasfinance

Telegram: https://t.me/rexasfinance

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author

Gregory, a digital nomad hailing from Poland, is not only a financial analyst but also a valuable contributor to various online magazines. With a wealth of experience in the financial industry, his insights and expertise have earned him recognition in numerous publications. Utilising his spare time effectively, Gregory is currently dedicated to writing a book about cryptocurrency and blockchain.

More articles

Gregory, a digital nomad hailing from Poland, is not only a financial analyst but also a valuable contributor to various online magazines. With a wealth of experience in the financial industry, his insights and expertise have earned him recognition in numerous publications. Utilising his spare time effectively, Gregory is currently dedicated to writing a book about cryptocurrency and blockchain.

Multiple Network Unveils Brand Upgrade, Focusing On Privacy Protection And Data Acceleration

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December 20, 2024

by
Alisa Davidson

Published: December 20, 2024 at 9:11 am Updated: December 20, 2024 at 10:13 am

by Ana

Edited and fact-checked:
December 20, 2024 at 9:11 am

In Brief

Multiple Network announced a brand upgrade to enhance global AI adoption and integration with decentralized ecosystems through its network powered by advanced P2P and SD-WAN technologies.

Decentralized networking platform Multiple Network announced a comprehensive brand upgrade, signaling its commitment to shaping the future of AI and decentralized ecosystems. This highlights the platform’s focus on addressing critical challenges in AI through decentralized architecture and advanced privacy-computing technologies.

Multiple Network provides a privacy-acceleration solution designed for AI applications. By aggregating bandwidth resources from distributed nodes, the platform creates a high-efficiency, low-latency network environment that supports key functionalities. These include accelerating training speeds and inference efficiency for large-scale AI tasks, enabling real-time encrypted data transmission to protect user privacy during search engine interactions, and facilitating the secure transfer of large-scale data while ensuring privacy remains intact.

The platform’s unique use of peer-to-peer (P2P) and software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) technologies enables it to address the dual challenges of data transmission efficiency and privacy protection in complex AI scenarios. At this pivotal juncture for the industry, Multiple Network is actively supporting the Decentralized AI (DeAI) ecosystem by enhancing privacy-computing capabilities and offering solutions that cater to the needs of both users and enterprises.

Unlike centralized systems, Multiple Network operates through a decentralized network of distributed nodes. This approach strengthens resistance to attacks, eliminates single points of failure, and ensures overall system reliability and availability. The decentralized model fosters equitable sharing of data, models, and computing power, promoting global access to AI resources for users and developers.

By integrating decentralized networks with privacy-computing frameworks such as federated learning and secure multi-party computation, Multiple Network allows sensitive data to be collaboratively trained and analyzed without centralized processing. This enables the development of privacy-friendly AI applications, reinforcing trust and advancing innovation across various sectors. Through these efforts, Multiple Network is redefining how privacy and scalability intersect in the evolving AI landscape.

🔥「 Brand Announcement 」🔥🎉 We’re excited to unveil our brand upgrade:

Multiple Network — A Web3 Privacy Acceleration Solution for AI

As a leading Web3 solution for AI, we specialize in privacy protection and data acceleration services, leveraging cutting-edge P2P and… pic.twitter.com/efewL6H3gL

— Multiple Network (@MTP_Network) December 20, 2024

Multiple Network Strengthens AI And Web3 Integration With Industry Support And Collaborations

Over the past year, Multiple Network has gained attention and support from OKX Ventures, Youbi Capital, and Stratified Capital. Notable achievements include the launch of the Multiple Network testnet and Miniapp, which have collectively attracted nearly 100,000 registered node users, showcasing the platform’s growing influence and reach.

Recently, it has collaborated with TON Society and UxLink to host the MultiWave TON Year-End Rewards Gala. This event brought together over 20 Web3 projects and media organizations, fostering partnerships and reinforcing the development of the broader ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Multiple Network is committed to further optimizing its network architecture to meet the ever-changing demands of the AI industry. By focusing on enhancing network stability and reliability, the platform aims to deliver high-quality services to AI companies. Additionally, the platform plans to broaden its collaborations within the AI sector, exploring new application scenarios such as smart contracts, real-time data analysis, and machine learning model training.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author

Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.

More articles

Alisa Davidson

Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.

Over One Billion Dollars Vanishes in Crypto Market Shakeup as Traders Are Caught Off Guard by Sudden Volatility

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December 20, 2024

Over One Billion Dollars Vanishes in Crypto Market Shakeup as Traders Are Caught Off Guard by Sudden Volatility

by
Victoria d’Este

Published: December 20, 2024 at 9:09 am Updated: December 20, 2024 at 9:09 am

by Ana

Edited and fact-checked:
December 20, 2024 at 9:09 am

In Brief

Crypto market decline led to over $1 billion in leveraged positions liquidation, revealing unprepared traders.

A steep decline in the crypto market occurred, and within a day, leveraged positions worth over $1 billion were liquidated. After a month of robust bullish momentum, this event demonstrated how unprepared traders were for unforeseen market disruptions.

Notwithstanding the setback, some analysts speculate that this might not be the beginning of a long-term slide but rather a temporary correction.

Effects of Liquidation and Market Responses

Bitcoin, which saw its price fall and settle at $94,971 at the time of writing, was the leader of the liquidation wave.

Photo: CoinGecko

According to CoinGlass data, long positions included about $856.7 million of the $1.02 billion liquidated on December 19.

Photo: CoinGlass

This incident was the month’s second major liquidation. On December 5, Bitcoin’s price fell 5.47% below $93,000, wiping away $300 million in a matter of minutes. Days later, on December 10, more over $1.7 billion in leveraged positions were eliminated in a single day due to a wider market slump. The inherent volatility of the cryptocurrency market and the dangers of leveraged trading are both reflected in these incidents.

Caleb Franzen, a cryptocurrency market expert, said that comparable pullbacks have happened in past cycles and explained this volatility as typical behavior during a bull run. His observations show the present drop could not portend a deeper drop but rather an episodic correction characteristic of upward market trends.

These are all of the Bitcoin pullbacks (not incl. the COVID crash) from the last bull cycle, all of which were followed by higher highs.

Down -18.9%, -15.9%, -21.2%, -16.8%, -31.1%, -25.6%, -18.3%, -58.6%, -30.1%, -25.1%.

All within the span of 16 months.

Buckle up buttercup. pic.twitter.com/1QFdOIj1ks

— Caleb Franzen (@CalebFranzen) December 19, 2024

Hawkish Federal Reserve Signals Contribute to Market Pressure

The cryptocurrency market is now much more complicated as a result of recent steps by the Federal Reserve. The Fed announced a quarter-percentage-point drop to its main interest rate on December 18, its third in a row. However, market confidence was tempered by its cautious approach to further cutbacks.

For risky assets like cryptocurrencies, the central bank’s decision to restrict rate cuts until 2025 has generated uncertainty. Although cryptocurrencies are increasingly being viewed as a hedge against inflation, their extreme volatility still poses a problem in developed countries, according to Ruslan Lienkha, Chief of Markets at YouHodler.

Bearish sentiment in the cryptocurrency market was fueled by the Fed’s measures that limited liquidity. However, Lienkha said that by increasing liquidity in the banking sector, quicker rate reductions could raise the value of cryptocurrencies.

Leverage Risks Are Highlighted by Long Liquidations

The risks of high-leverage trading in erratic markets are highlighted by the $856.7 million long position liquidation. In a December 19 X post, Bitcoin maximalist Fred Krueger highlighted this issue and cautioned that leverage is still the primary approach to “screw up” trading Bitcoin.

Bitcoin is the best trade you will probably ever see.There is exactly one way to screw it up.Leverage.

— Fred Krueger (@dotkrueger) December 19, 2024

The mood is indicative of the wider dangers that leverage presents to traders, both institutional and individual. Leveraged holdings are particularly risky amid sudden changes in the market since they increase both possible gains and losses.

Expectations for the Santa Rally Despite Volatility

Some market players are still hopeful for a year-end revival in spite of the recent upheaval. The idea of a “Santa rally,” in which asset values increase during the Christmas season, has been alluded to by analysts such as Pav Hundal of Swyftx and Jamie Coutts of Real Vision.

Tightening liquidity was evident for 2 months. Brace and watch the whites in the eyes of the central planners if this escalates. Buying opp incoming. https://t.co/ftgesVUq4H

— Jamie Coutts CMT (@Jamie1Coutts) December 20, 2024

Hundal described today’s state of situation as “short-term angst,” implying that the bullish mood of the previous month would reappear. He said that more volatility or a rebound might be fueled by the market’s response to recent events, such as Federal Reserve policies and conjecture around Donald Trump’s upcoming administration.

In line with past trends when pullbacks during bull runs were followed by higher highs, Coutts and other analysts see the current decline as a possible buying opportunity. During the last Bitcoin bull run, Franzen noted nine such drops that preceded new all-time highs.

Market Expectations Are Shaped by Political Factors

Beyond current market conditions, cryptocurrency investors are paying attention to Donald Trump’s coming inauguration as the 47th president of the United States in January 2025. A U.S. Bitcoin strategic reserve is one of the possible regulatory changes that market players are thinking about.

Hundal said that when businesses consider expectations for crypto regulation and more general economic measures, there would likely be volatility around Trump’s administration. In the upcoming months, this uncertainty may cause the cryptocurrency market to fluctuate even more.

Some analysts advise caution, while others see this pullback as a normal part of a larger bull market. The next stage of cryptocurrency price changes will probably be shaped by the interaction of market mood, political events, and Federal Reserve policy.

Traders and investors must balance the possible benefits of engaging in an erratic yet quickly changing market against the hazards of leveraging positions when faced with uncertainty. It remains to be seen if the market undergoes a protracted decline or if the expected Santa rally occurs. The takeaways from this incident, however, are unmistakable: risk management and planning are crucial for surviving in the volatile cryptocurrency market.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author

Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.

More articles

Victoria d’Este

Victoria is a writer on a variety of technology topics including Web3.0, AI and cryptocurrencies. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for the wider audience.

Foresight Ventures Releases New Research On Story’s Protocol For AI-Driven IP Economy

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December 20, 2024

Foresight Ventures Releases New Research On Story’s Protocol For AI-Driven IP Economy

by
Alisa Davidson

Published: December 20, 2024 at 9:00 am Updated: December 20, 2024 at 5:43 am

by Ana

Edited and fact-checked:
December 20, 2024 at 9:00 am

In Brief

Foresight Ventures has released a new research report on Story, exploring how it facilitates trustless intellectual property management by enabling automated licensing and adaptive royalty mechanisms.

Venture capital firm specializing in Web3 and blockchain technologies, Foresight Ventures, announced that it has released a new research report on Story, emphasizing its role in creating a decentralized ecosystem for managing intellectual property (IP). The report explores how Story facilitates trustless IP management through blockchain technology, enabling automated licensing and adaptive royalty mechanisms. By integrating AI-driven tools, the protocol aims to revolutionize digital creativity and collaboration, paving the way for a more efficient and transparent IP economy.

“Story is more than a blockchain; it’s an operating system for decentralized creativity,” stated Maggie Wu, Research Lead at Foresight Ventures, in a written statement. “Its ability to empower creators with scalable, automated, and transparent IP tools represents a paradigm shift in how intellectual property is viewed and managed on a global scale,” she added.

Story has unveiled the Agent Transaction Control Protocol for Intellectual Property (ATCP/IP), a new framework designed to facilitate the efficient and autonomous exchange of intellectual property on the blockchain. This system incorporates features such as programmable licensing terms, automated royalty distribution, and built-in dispute resolution, offering a scalable and trustless infrastructure tailored for creators and innovators.

The framework’s integration with the advancing AI ecosystem is a notable focus of recent research. Through ATCP/IP, AI agents can independently manage, license, and trade datasets, outputs, and algorithms. This capability fosters collaboration and drives innovation, enabling seamless interaction between blockchain technology and AI on an unprecedented scale.

“AI and blockchain are converging to redefine how we manage and exchange value,” said Forest Bai, Co-founder of Foresight Ventures, in a written statement. “Story distinguishes itself by creating a seamless marketplace for intellectual property, empowering creators, and driving sustainable innovation through trustless systems,” he added.

Story’s utility goes beyond intellectual property, addressing a wide range of market demands. By accommodating tokenized real-world assets such as Bored Ape Yacht Club and facilitating royalty-based financial derivatives, the platform offers a modular framework that serves both creators and enterprises. Its integration with AI enhances scalability, fostering the growth of decentralized knowledge-driven economies and unlocking new possibilities for collaboration and innovation.

Foresight Ventures: Empowering Blockchain And Web3 Innovation

Foresight Ventures is among the leading cryptocurrency venture capital firms uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between the East and West. With a research-focused approach and offices in both the US and Singapore, the firm stands as a notable player in cryptocurrency investment and incubation.

Recently, it has announced a multimillion-dollar strategic investment in Aptos, a Layer 1 blockchain. The funding will be used to accelerate the development of Aptos’ products, boost liquidity, and support the growth of its scalable and upgradeable blockchain infrastructure.

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

About The Author

Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.

More articles

Alisa Davidson

Alisa, a dedicated journalist at the MPost, specializes in cryptocurrency, zero-knowledge proofs, investments, and the expansive realm of Web3. With a keen eye for emerging trends and technologies, she delivers comprehensive coverage to inform and engage readers in the ever-evolving landscape of digital finance.

AI in Finance: Redefining Success in the Financial World – Web3oclock

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December 20, 2024

AI in Finance: Redefining Success in the Financial World – Web3oclock

Table of Contents:

Why AI Matters in Finance?

Key Applications of AI in Finance

Benefits of AI in Finance

Challenges of AI in Finance

AI has been moving forward from just another buzzword; it has become a new phenomenon in transforming the world and reshaping all industries reaching far into today’s finance. AI is the game-changer of efficiency, accuracy, and most importantly, innovation in the financial arena. Be it robo-advisors managing investments, systems designed for fraud detection in transactions, or even AI-driven predictive models for credit scoring, is enormously significant.

In this blog, we will explore how AI is revolutionizing the world of finance, what key applications it flaunts, the challenges faced, and what may lurk in the future. So, let’s see how AI is flipping the whole financial landscape upside down in a good way.

Why AI Matters in Finance?

Picture Courtesy: advansappz.com

The complex finance ecosystem demands precision, speed, and reliability. Until now, financial processes, whether personal or institutional, have been largely manual, dependent on processes often prone to inefficiencies and errors. Enter AI: a technology that provides vast quantities of data, discovers patterns, and makes decisions at incredible speeds.

Decision-Making by Data:

AI processes large numbers of financial information faster than humans and discovers insights and trends that humans would take significantly longer to identify, culminating in smarter and speedier decisions.

Cost Efficiency:

AI saves expenditure due to automation by performing repetitive processes like data entry, compliance checks, and monitoring transactions, which allow funds to unlock for strategic activities.

Improved Accuracy and Risk Management:

AI minimizes Human errors in important financial transactions. AI makes detecting deceitful activities easier and assessing risks possible, thus providing high compliance and safety.

Enhanced Customer Experience:

AI provides more personalized financial services, tailored investment advice to instant customer support through a chatbot, making financial instruments easier for customers to use.

Innovative Financial Products:

AI creates new financial gadgets and services, such as robo-advisers, algorithmic trading, or alternative credit scoring methods, and drives growth in the industry.

Key Applications of AI in Finance:

Picture Courtesy: https://www.finalroundai.com/

Here are the key applications of AI in finance, showcasing its transformative impact across the industry:

1. Fraud Detection and Prevention:

AI monitors transactions in real time, identifies unusual patterns, and detects fraudulent activities before they cause harm. For example, MasterCard and PayPal entities try to authenticate financial transactions through AI.

2. Robo-Advisors and Wealth Management:

Robo-advisors provide AI-managed personalized investment portfolios, financial advisory services, and rebalancing of assets when market and individual risk preferences change. Betterment and Wealthfront are usually cited examples.

3. Algorithm Trading:

Artificial intelligence could analyze market data and carry out transactions in milliseconds based on analytics. Therefore, the whole system can tackle emotional biases and transactions become extremely efficient. The black rock is a giant user of AI to optimize its trading strategies.

4. Credit Scoring and Lending:

AI analyzes social media behavior and payment histories in addition to all the traditional data for credit risk evaluation. Most importantly, AI can enable faster decisions for loans as well as fairer ones. Upstart is one example of making use of such AI technology for its lending purposes.

5. Risk Management:

AI could use predictive analytics to identify potential risks, simulate financial scenarios for resilience, and dynamically adapt strategies to limit losses in turbulent markets.

Benefits of AI in Finance:

Picture Courtesy: matellio.com

The advantages of using AI in finance are compelling:

1. Efficiency Boost:

With repetitive procedures like data entry, transaction processing, and compliance checking, AI is able to speed up life for financial institutions and make them more efficient.

2. Improvement Accuracy:

AI achieves better risk management, compliance, and overall financial reliability by significantly minimizing human errors in calculations, analyses, and decision-making.

3. Cost Saving:

Operational costs are minimized through reduced employment and optimized workflows, while enabling companies to allocate resources strategically while providing services of high quality.

4. Personalized Customer Experience:

AI customizes financial goods and services to the various specific needs of different customers, offering personalized investment advice, as well as bank experiences and good customer response.

5. Fraud Detection and Security:

AI systems detect fraudulent transactions and cyber threats in real-time, enhancing the security of sensitive financial data and protecting customers and institutions from significant losses.

6. Data Driven Decisions:

With the capacity to sift through huge amounts of data, AI can give out practical business recommendations offering financial houses opportunities to make more defined investments, anticipate market movements, and streamline directions of strategies.

7. Innovations in Financial Products:

AI will move ahead in the creation of modern tools such as robo-advisors, algorithmic trading conditions, and alternative credit scoring systems, expanding the possible future of services in finance.

8. Scalability and Flexibility:

AI allows the financial infrastructure to be totally scalable and adaptive to new situations such as increased volumes of transactions or changing compliance requirements in a seamless manner.

Challenges of AI in Finance:

No revolution comes without challenges. While AI holds immense promise, it also raises concerns:

Data Privacy and Security:

AI relies heavily on data, making financial institutions vulnerable to breaches. Protecting sensitive customer data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR is a major concern.

Algorithmic Bias:

AI systems can inherit biases from training data, leading to unfair outcomes in areas like lending or credit scoring. Addressing and mitigating these biases is critical for ethical AI use.

Regulatory and Compliance Issues:

The fast-paced evolution of AI in finance often outpaces regulatory frameworks. Lack of clear guidelines can make compliance difficult, leading to potential legal risks for institutions.

Integration and Implementation Costs:

Adopting AI technologies requires significant investment in infrastructure, training, and resources, which can be a barrier for smaller financial institutions.

Transparency and Explainability:

AI models, especially deep learning systems, can act as “black boxes,” making it challenging to explain decisions to regulators, customers, or stakeholders.

Cybersecurity Risks:

While AI enhances security, it can also be exploited by malicious actors for sophisticated cyberattacks, requiring constant vigilance and advanced defenses.

Workforce Displacement:

AI-driven automation may lead to job displacement in routine roles, creating challenges for workforce adaptation and retraining.

Dependence on Quality Data:

AI performance is highly dependent on the quality and quantity of data. Poor or incomplete data can lead to inaccurate predictions or unreliable outcomes.

The rise of AI in finance isn’t just for corporations or Wall Street traders; it’s for everyone. Whether you’re an investor, a small business owner, or just someone managing personal finances, AI has something to offer. By embracing AI tools and understanding their potential, you can make smarter decisions and stay ahead of the curve.

Your Turn! What’s your take on AI in finance? Have you tried using any AI-powered financial tools? Share your experiences in the comments below. Let’s discuss how we can all make the most of this exciting technological revolution!

For more insights and updates on Metaverse, DeFi, Blockchain, NFT & Web3, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter. Stay informed on the latest trends and developments in the decentralized world!

Bye 2024, Welcome 2025!

Metaverse

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December 20, 2024

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on what an incredibly eventful time it has been—especially in the realms of AI and Microsoft 365 Copilot. The pace of evolution in these areas is faster than ever before, and witnessing how Copilot is reshaping the way we work has been nothing short of exhilarating.

This year, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with customers on Microsoft 365 Copilot adoption. From coaching and training sessions to innovating extensions and developing proofs of concept, it’s been a transformative journey. Helping organizations unlock the potential of AI and integrate it into their daily operations has been immensely rewarding.

Being actively involved with the Microsoft Tech Community—truly the best community in tech—has been one of the highlights of my year. I’ve had the opportunity to speak at events across Finland, Europe, and the United States, sharing knowledge and connecting with passionate professionals from all over the world. Meeting friends, both old and new, within this vibrant community has enriched my life, and I’m eagerly anticipating more of these meaningful interactions in 2025.Thank you everyone who made this possible!

Looking ahead, I know that 2025 will be a year filled with even more advancements in Copilot and AI. Customers are increasingly recognizing the value these technologies bring. However, they’ve also realized that a return on investment doesn’t happen automatically. True ROI materializes when a larger number of people understand how and when to use these tools effectively. This underscores the importance of creating relevant use cases that resonate with users and enhance their workflows.

I’m excited about the upcoming events that will kick off the new year. At the end of January, I’ll be heading to Tallinn, Estonia, for the Cloud Technology Townhall Tallinn (CTTT). It’s always inspiring to start the year by engaging with fellow tech enthusiasts and exploring the latest innovations.

In early May, I’ll be flying to the United States to speak at the Microsoft 365 Community Conference. Alongside my good friend Adam Deltinger, we’ll be hosting a workshop titled “Mastering Cross-Organization Collaboration with Microsoft Teams.” Additionally, I’ll be presenting a session on “Administrating and Governing Microsoft Loop.“ These topics are close to my heart, and I’m eager to delve into them with attendees. If you’re interested in joining us, you can register for the conference and save $150 with the code SAVE150.

As we approach the holiday season, it’s time to wind down and take a well-deserved break. The year has been filled with hard work, learning, and growth, and now it’s important to rest and recharge. I’m grateful for all the experiences and connections made this year and am enthusiastic about what lies ahead.

Wishing everyone a peaceful holiday break and a happy new year. Here’s to embracing the opportunities that 2025 will bring and continuing our journey together in the ever-evolving world of AI and technology.

Did that sound like written by AI? Probably yes and hopefully not too much. I deliberately used the Azure OpenAI Service o1-preview model to write this article, based on the information I gave to it, and did very little changes / additions. This reasoning model is just excellent! I have been trying it out on several occasions and I am truly impressed on what it can do.

After the first reply, I asked for a rewrite. Prompt is just a flow of my thoughts and not by any means a refined one.

GPT-4o is good, but o1 is way better with its 200K context capability. Answers I get from it are longer and better, it can understand much more complex inputs – I noticed if I just write prompts just like I would be speaking them.. it would give me great results. It is very easy to see how this will be changing the scene during 2025, as it will be more and more used. The model is currently in the preview but once it goes to GA it is interesting to see how it will be incorporated to Microsoft 365 Copilot. GPT-4o is faster (o1 is not slow either!) but there is a clear leap in the quality.

And it is stated in Azure AI Foundry models catalogue, there are very advanced situations where o1 will excel

The OpenAI o1 series models are specifically designed to tackle reasoning and problem-solving tasks with increased focus and capability. These models spend more time processing and understanding the user’s request, making them exceptionally strong in areas like science, coding, math and similar fields. For example, o1 can be used by healthcare researchers to annotate cell sequencing data, by physicists to generate complicated mathematical formulas needed for quantum optics, and by developers in all fields to build and execute multi-step workflows.

Using the o1 to write a blog article is just a small part of what it is capable of. How you can use it then? Just like any other model in Azure AI Foundry – deploy it and use it to power your custom agents! At the moment you need to apply for access, so you will need a good use case to get started with this.

Pricing is higher, as o1 will use much more computing power than other models. That is one reason why you should not always use the most powerful model, but instead choose the one meeting to your needs. Up to date pricing can be found at https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/pricing/details/cognitive-services/openai-service/#pricing

Comparing that to GPT-4o we can see o1 is roughly 6 times as expensive in the input and output.

When you have a good use case for o1,where results are important, then probably the price isn’t the biggest factor if it is saving people’s time big time – and/or delivering better and more correct answers compared to less expensive models. Perhaps you will have 1000 people using that several times a day, and you start calculating how high the cost will be. Remember to also estimate how much it will save time every day for those 1000 employees, and thus increasing productivity.

But the point of the pricing is: don’t just use o1 because it is there. Choose the model that meets your needs. For example there are o1-mini, gpt-4o, gpt-4o-mini and so on. There are , at the moment, 1820 models in Azure AI Foundry’s catalogue. If you need the reasoning and advanced model, o1 is certainly something you want to experiment with and try!

Published by Vesa Nopanen

Vesa “Vesku” Nopanen, Principal Consultant and Microsoft MVP (M365 and AI Platform) working on Future Work at Sulava.

I work, blog and speak about Future Work : AI, Microsoft 365, Copilot, Microsoft Mesh, Metaverse, and other services & platforms in the cloud connecting digital and physical and people together.

I have about 30 years of experience in IT business on multiple industries, domains, and roles.
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Ragnarok Landverse Coming to Ronin Network in Q1 2025

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December 20, 2024

Ragnarok Landverse Coming to Ronin Network in Q1 2025

Ragnarok Landverse, a new Web3 version of the classic MMORPG Ragnarok Online, will launch on Sky Mavis’ Ronin Network in early 2025. Ragnarok Landverse: Genesis is the result of a partnership between Ronin Network and blockchain gaming studio Zentry. Terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but this brings more players and fans into Web3 gaming.

A Classic Goes On-Chain

Ragnarok Online was first released in 2002 by South Korean company Gravity. It became a global phenomenon, with over 100 million players and over $2 billion in revenue. Over the years, the franchise has been known for its immersive quests, detailed character customization, and strong player communities. It’s especially popular in Southeast Asia, where its player-driven economies and social features make it stand out.

Source Ragnarok

By going on-chain, Ragnarok Landverse aims to add more value and engagement. According to Zentry, this Web3 version stays true to the original experience. Still, it adds the ability to earn, own and trade digital assets. Players can complete familiar quests, kill monsters and explore the game world while collecting on-chain resources like adamantine fragments and earning tokens.

This added layer of digital ownership could mean stronger in-game economies and more player involvement. In fact, by 2024, a community of over 400,000 Landverse players had already generated more than $15 million in revenue through sales of in-game items and NFTs.

Pre-Register and Future Plans

Want to play Ragnarok Landverse on Ronin? Pre-register now. Pre-registration is easy:

Visit rolg.maxion.gg/pre-register

Click “Pre-Register”

Create a Maxion account with your email

Link your Ronin Wallet to unlock possible mystery rewards

This is the entry point to Web3 gaming. The Ronin Wallet is a bridge where you can store and manage your on-chain items. For many, it will be their first Web3 game, where they can experience digital ownership and community-driven economies.

Zentry’s flagship studio, Maxion, has an official partnership with Gravity, the publisher of Ragnarok, to ensure the new game stays true to the original experience and story.

Zentry will also operate a node validator on the Ronin Network to help maintain and secure the blockchain infrastructure for these games.

This could be a big moment for Web3 gaming. If this succeeds, more developers might bring their IP into the blockchain. For players, it’s an opportunity to play a classic game again with the added benefits of digital ownership and a more connected economy.

Editor’s note: Written with the assistance of AI – Edited and fact-checked by Jason Newey.

Jason Newey is a seasoned journalist specializing in NFTs, the Metaverse, and Web3 technologies. With a background in digital media and blockchain technology, he adeptly translates complex concepts into engaging, informative articles.

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