Today’s Top Crypto Stories: From Bitcoin Banks to New Stablecoins

The cryptocurrency industry continues to see rapid developments, from major institutional investments to regulatory changes and new product launches. Here’s a quick roundup of the most important crypto news you should know today.

Tether Acquires a Minority Stake in Bit2Me

Tether has acquired a minority stake in Bit2Me, a Spanish cryptocurrency exchange. Bit2Me is notable for being licensed under the EU’s new MiCA regulations, giving it a competitive advantage in the European market.

The investment is expected to strengthen Bit2Me’s expansion across Europe. Tether, best known for issuing the USDT stablecoin, has been increasing its strategic investments in crypto infrastructure. The companies will explore joint initiatives to promote stablecoin adoption. Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

Harvard Invests $120 Million in BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF

Harvard University has invested $120 million into BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF. The move highlights growing institutional interest in Bitcoin among prestigious academic institutions. Harvard’s investment signals a shift toward digital assets as a legitimate part of long-term portfolios.

The BlackRock ETF offers direct exposure to Bitcoin without the need for self-custody. Analysts believe this could encourage other universities to follow suit. Harvard has not commented publicly on the investment strategy.

First Bitcoin Bank to Launch in El Salvador

El Salvador will establish the first Bitcoin bank in the country under newly approved legislation. The bank will operate within the national Bitcoin framework introduced in 2021. It will provide loans, savings accounts, and other services denominated in both Bitcoin and US dollars.

The government hopes this will boost financial inclusion for the unbanked population. The move is also aimed at attracting international crypto investment. The bank is expected to start operations in 2025.

CEA Industries Becomes Largest Corporate Holder of BNB

CEA Industries has purchased 200,000 BNB tokens, making it the largest corporate holder of Binance’s native cryptocurrency. The acquisition is valued at over $100 million at current market prices. The company says it sees BNB as a strategic asset for future blockchain-based projects.

This move also strengthens its relationship with Binance’s ecosystem. Analysts note that such a large single purchase could impact BNB’s market liquidity. CEA Industries has not shared details on storage and custody arrangements.

Coinbase Adds DEX Trading to its Mobile App

Coinbase will integrate decentralized exchange (DEX) trading into its mobile app. Users will be able to trade tokens directly from their wallets without using a centralized order book. The update supports several major DEX platforms at launch.

Coinbase says this will give users more flexibility and access to DeFi tokens. The move reflects growing demand for non-custodial trading solutions. The rollout will start in selected regions before expanding globally.

Ripple and SEC End Legal Dispute

Ripple and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have officially ended their multi-year court battle. Both sides agreed to drop their remaining appeals. The case revolved around whether XRP should be classified as a security.

The settlement removes a major source of uncertainty for Ripple’s business. XRP’s price reacted positively to the news. The companies have not disclosed additional settlement terms.

GreedyBear Hacker Group Steals $1M via Fake Extensions

A hacker group known as GreedyBear has stolen over $1 million in cryptocurrencies. The group distributed fake browser extensions that mimic popular crypto wallet tools. Once installed, these extensions steal private keys and seed phrases.

Most victims were targeted through phishing campaigns. Security experts are warning users to only download software from verified sources. Authorities are investigating but have not confirmed any arrests.

SEC Eases Accounting Rules for Stablecoins

The US Securities and Exchange Commission has simplified the accounting treatment of certain stablecoins. Under the new rules, eligible stablecoins can be classified as cash equivalents. This change could make it easier for companies to hold stablecoins on their balance sheets.

The decision is aimed at supporting innovation in the payments sector. Market participants see it as a positive step for mainstream adoption. The policy will take effect in Q4 2025.

DeFi Liquidity Reaches $270 Billion

The liquidity in the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector reached a record $270 billion in July. Ethereum remains the dominant blockchain, accounting for most of the total value locked (TVL).

The surge is driven by rising token prices and new protocol launches. Major contributors include lending platforms, DEXs, and liquid staking services. Analysts say this growth signals renewed confidence in DeFi. However, they warn that volatility remains a key risk factor.

MetaMask to Launch Stablecoin with Stripe

MetaMask is planning to launch its own stablecoin, MetaMask USD (MMUSD), in partnership with Stripe. The stablecoin will be pegged to the US dollar and integrated directly into the MetaMask wallet.

Users will be able to buy, send, and spend MMUSD within the app. Stripe will handle fiat on- and off-ramps for the stablecoin. The launch aims to simplify payments and DeFi participation. MMUSD is expected to debut in early 2026.

About Paybis

Paybis is a global cryptocurrency exchange platform that provides fast, secure, and user-friendly digital asset transactions. Founded in 2014, the company specializes in fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat conversions, enabling users to buy, sell, and swap Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies using various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets.

With a strong focus on security and compliance, Paybis is registered with regulatory authorities and implements industry-leading AML/KYC procedures. The platform is known for its intuitive interface, 24/7 customer support, and competitive exchange rates, making it a preferred choice for both beginners and experienced traders.

Summing Up

From institutional adoption and solo miner success stories to troubling cybercrime trends and outspoken industry voices, this week paints a vivid picture of a rapidly evolving crypto landscape. Whether you’re an investor, developer, or just crypto-curious, staying informed has never been more essential.

Written by

Rem Vasilenko

Rem Vasilenko is a Growth Operations Manager at Paybis. With a keen interest in FinTech, Rem brings a unique perspective to the evolving digital finance landscape. He combines his passion for FinTech with his marketing and business skills to drive innovative strategies. Find him on LinkedIn.