© 2025 All rights reserved
News
Altcoin News
Altcoin News
Browse all Altcoin related articles and news. The latest news, analysis, and insights on Altcoin.
A First in the US: Solana Stake ETF Begins Trading This Week
A new milestone is being reached in the cryptocurrency market. According to a report by Bloomberg citing anonymous sources, the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) providing Solana (SOL) staking returns, developed by REX Shares and Osprey Funds, will begin trading in the US on Wednesday, July 2. Listed under the ticker symbol “SSK,” this ETF offers investors the opportunity to generate income not only from Solana price movements but also from block rewards earned through staking. In this regard, the fund holds the title of the first stakable cryptocurrency ETF in the U.S.Overcoming legal hurdles: The C-Corp structureThis product was designed with a different legal structure to bypass SEC approval processes. Unlike traditional ETFs, REX-Osprey ETFs are structured as taxable C-corporations (C-Corps). Under this model, staking rewards are taxed within the fund before being distributed to investors and then reflected as dividends. This structure reduces the risk of the fund not being recognized as an investment company by the SEC, thereby paving the way for market entry.The SEC had previously issued warnings that REX and Osprey's ETF did not comply with legal requirements. However, the fund's commitment to invest at least 40% of its assets in other Solana-based ETFs and ETPs outside the US enabled these concerns to be overcome. According to sources speaking to Bloomberg, the fund has officially received approval to launch.Strahinja Savic, data analytics director at FRNT Financial, noted that this development is a sign of the deepening integration between traditional capital markets and the crypto economy. Savic noted that the SEC's more lenient stance toward crypto since the Trump administration took office has made it easier for such products to enter the market. “Crypto is no longer a pariah asset class; it is becoming an integrated part of public markets,” he said.The SSK ETF offers a different alternative to existing Solana-based products in the market. Previously listed Volatility Shares Solana ETF (SOLZ) and its leveraged version SOLT focused solely on futures contracts. However, the new ETF stands out as a more attractive option for investors seeking direct access to staking income.Impact on prices remained limitedIn response to the news, the Solana price rose by 5% within minutes, climbing from $150 to $158. However, this increase was not sustained, and the price quickly dropped back to $152. Solana, which has gained 7% in value over the past week, has declined by approximately 50% since reaching its peak at the beginning of the year amid the meme coin craze. It also fell below the $170 peak reached at the beginning of June. This development has sparked excitement regarding crypto ETF launches in the US. So far, only Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs have been approved. The approval granted to REX-Osprey is expected to pave the way for similar products, such as an Ethereum staking ETF, in the coming period.
·
1 Jul 2025
National Cryptocurrency Reserve Being Established in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan has announced a new step to increase its influence in the cryptocurrency field. According to a statement by Timur Suleimenov, Governor of the National Bank of Kazakhstan, cryptocurrencies seized in the country and coins obtained from state-supported mining activities will be collected in a national reserve managed by an institution affiliated with the National Bank.A reserve will be created for cryptocurrencies in KazakhstanTimur Suleimenov, Governor of the National Bank of Kazakhstan, has announced a new plan that will take the country's approach to cryptocurrencies one step further. According to the plan, cryptocurrencies seized by the state and those obtained from public mining operations will be collected in a “national cryptocurrency reserve” managed by an institution affiliated with the Central Bank.This development could increase Kazakhstan's influence in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. The country already stands out for accounting for approximately 13% of the global Bitcoin (BTC) mining hash rate. Following an energy crisis in 2022, the state carried out a major operation against illegal mining activities and seized equipment worth approximately $200 million.According to Suleimenov, this new reserve structure will be established in a manner similar to a sovereign wealth fund model. The system, which will be managed through a single governing body, will prioritize transparency, oversight, and secure storage standards. The Central Bank governor stated, “In the face of volatile market conditions and potential cyber threats, a centralized structure will be the most viable solution.”Details of the plan are being worked out by relevant ministries and law enforcement agencies. However, no date has yet been given for when the reserve will be launched or how large it will be.BTC reserves are growingThis move puts Kazakhstan among the countries that have created state-level cryptocurrency reserves. While the idea of a “Strategic Reserve” for Bitcoin is on the agenda in the US, states such as Arizona, Ohio, and Texas have already legalized holding BTC. Meanwhile, in the private sector, companies like MicroStrategy, Metaplanet, and GameStop have begun creating new-generation corporate treasuries by including cryptocurrencies in their balance sheets. In fact, this morning we reported that Metaplanet had added another 1,005 BTC to its treasury.Cryptocurrency experts note that Kazakhstan's move could directly impact global Bitcoin demand. In particular, governments adopting such reserve strategies contributes to the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies as “new-generation reserve assets.” As of June 30, 2025, Bitcoin's market value reached $2.14 trillion, with a 28.6% increase in value over the past 90 days. This momentum is believed to be driven by institutional purchases, particularly from governments and large institutions.
·
30 Jun 2025
What is Stellar (XLM)?
As cryptocurrencies evolve beyond mere investment vehicles to become structures that trigger the transformation of the global financial system, one of the projects at the center of this revolution is Stellar. Aiming to open the doors of financial inclusion for millions of people without access to banking infrastructure, Stellar uses blockchain technology not only as a technological innovation but also as a social solution. This system, which focuses on low cost, speed, and accessibility in cross-border money transfers, offers a sustainable and inclusive digital economy vision for both individuals and institutions. So, what is Stellar (XLM), how does it work, and what innovations does it bring to the field? Let's take a closer look together.Definition and Origin of StellarThe question “What is Stellar (XLM) coin?” is a topic of interest for many people entering the world of digital finance. Simply put, Stellar is an open-source cross-border payment network protocol. In other words, it is a digital network that enables fast, reliable, and especially low-cost transactions between different currencies. It aims to create a more accessible and efficient system for individuals and institutions by combining traditional financial systems (such as banks and payment networks) with blockchain technology.Stellar was launched in 2014 by Jed McCaleb, one of the founders of Ripple, alongside Joyce Kim. Behind this project is the Stellar Development Foundation (SDF), a non-profit organization. The SDF's primary mission is to increase financial inclusion. In line with this, it is creating more equal access to the global financial system. The Stellar network focuses particularly on developing economies, microfinance solutions, and cross-border money transfers to achieve this goal.The network's native cryptocurrency is Lumens, known by the abbreviation XLM. The answer to the question “What is the XLM coin?” is as follows: XLM is a utility token used to facilitate transactions on the Stellar network and protect the network from spam. It is also used for purposes such as ensuring accounts on the network maintain a certain minimum balance and paying “rent” for smart contract data. In short, the Stellar XLM coin pair is seen as the heart of the digital infrastructure that enables these fast and inexpensive transfers.So, if you ask what the Stellar network is and what its purpose is, its purpose is to leverage blockchain to create a more accessible system that allows everyone, regardless of where they live, to participate in a stable global financial network. So, what is Stellar network? Stellar was designed for the exchange of money or tokens in line with this accessibility goal. It is an open-source protocol that uses the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP). Basic concepts of the Stellar network. Source: Stellar.org Stellar’s History: Major MilestonesThe answer to the question of when XLM was launched dates back to the beginning of the Stellar network. The Stellar project and its native currency (originally known as “stellars”) were officially launched on July 31, 2014. Initially, the non-profit Stellar Development Foundation (SDF) was created in collaboration with Jed McCaleb, Joyce Kim, and Stripe CEO Patrick Collison, and the project received $3 million in seed funding from Stripe. When the network launched, there were 100 billion stellars, 25% of which would be given to other non-profit organizations working in the field of financial inclusion. Stripe received 2% of the initial Stellar, or 2 billion, in return for the initial investment. The cryptocurrency was originally known as Stellar, but was later called Lumens or XLM. This is a milestone in the history of XLM coin.Throughout its history, Stellar has taken significant steps to develop its technology and ecosystem:2014: Stellar is founded. It was launched in July 2014 by Jed McCaleb, David Mazières, and Joyce Kim with the aim of creating "a decentralized protocol for sending and receiving money in any currency pair." Before founding Stellar, McCaleb was the co-founder of Ripple, a payment network for cross-border payments. In July 2013, McCaleb left Ripple due to reported disagreements with his fellow founders. In a blog post titled "Introduction to Stellar" published on July 31, 2014, Stellar announced that Stellar would be developed by the non-profit Stellar Development Foundation (SDF) and would control the entire initial token supply (105.00 billion XLM). 100 billion Stellar (now known as XLM) had been created when the network launched. In August 2014, the first Brazilian Bitcoin exchange, Mercado Bitcoin, announced that it would be using the Stellar network. However, in December 2014, the network was inadvertently forked due to the nodes not being able to reach consensus.2015: Stellar released an upgraded protocol with a new consensus algorithm, the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP), created by David Mazières. The protocol with this new algorithm went live in November 2015. The implementation of SCP is one of the key features that differentiate Stellar from mining-based Proof-of-Work (PoW) or other systems like Bitcoin. During this period, Stellar was announced to be integrated with the Praekelt Foundation's open-source messaging platform Vumi in South Africa, and Vumi would use mobile phone airtime as currency using the Stellar protocol. It also partnered with Oradian to support microfinance institutions.2016: Deloitte announced its integration with Stellar to create the cross-border payments application Deloitte Digital Bank. In December 2016, it was announced that Stellar’s payment network had expanded to include mobile payments startup Coins.ph in the Philippines, ICICI Bank in India, African mobile payments firm Flutterwave, and French remittance company Tempo Money Transfer.2017: Stellar’s commercial arm, Lightyear.io, launched in May 2017. In October 2017, Stellar partnered with IBM and KlickEx to facilitate cross-border transactions in the South Pacific region. The cross-border payments system, developed by IBM, included partnerships with banks in the region. This IBM-Stellar partnership was a significant step in showing how serious Stellar was in the enterprise space. In December 2017, Stellar announced a partnership with Nigeria-based remittance platform SureRemit.2018: Stellar signed a deal with TransferTo to facilitate cross-border payments to over 70 countries. It also became the first distributed technology ledger to receive Sharia-compliant certification for payments and asset tokenization, and was selected as a partner by IBM for its dual-backed stablecoin project. In September 2018, Lightyear Corporation acquired Chain, Inc., and the combined company was named Interstellar. 2019: Stellar ended its 1% annual inflation mechanism via a validator vote on October 28, 2019. Then, on November 4, 2019, SDF announced that it was reducing its Lumen holdings by burning (sending to unreachable addresses) a total of 55,442,095,285.7418 Lumens, reducing the total supply to approximately 50 billion. While this move caused a short-term price increase, the rally quickly fizzled out. XLM price chart since launch 2020-2024 and beyond: In October 2020, SDF announced USDC support, which entered the market in February 2021. In January 2021, the Ukrainian Ministry of Digital Transformation announced a collaboration and partnership with Stellar to develop Ukraine's digital infrastructure. This was a significant development demonstrating Stellar's role in digital currency projects. In 2021, Franklin Templeton launched the first tokenized US investment fund using Stellar. In June and July 2021, Protocol 17 (the ability for asset issuers to revoke assets for regulatory compliance) and Protocol 18 (Automated Market Makers - AMMs) were implemented, respectively. In March 2022, Starbridge, a bridge protocol between Stellar and Ethereum, was announced. In June 2022, Protocol 19, which introduced off-chain payment channels, was implemented. In October 2022, the Stellar Anchor Platform, which will help financial intermediaries provide services on Stellar, was announced. In 2023, beta testing of the Soroban smart contract platform began, and it was fully deployed in early 2024. This opened the door for developers to create new DeFi and NFT applications. In September 2023, Circle's euro stablecoin, EURC, was launched on Stellar. In October 2024, Stellar announced partnerships with Mastercard and Paxos.Why is Stellar valuable?With so many blockchain projects on the market, what makes Stellar valuable? Stellar's unique features that set it apart and add value to the network are as follows:Fast and low-cost transfersStellar's core promise is fast and low-cost transfers. The network can process cross-border payments extremely quickly (almost instantly, typically under 6 seconds) and at an incredibly low cost. Transaction costs are typically less than 1 cent for 10,000 transactions. The average transaction cost is around $0.0009437. This is a significant advantage, especially in situations where traditional wire transfer methods are slow and expensive. In the cross-border money transfer space, Stellar stands out for its speed and low cost.Focus on financial inclusion in developing countriesIn line with the SDF's mission, Stellar aims to provide access to financial services for those who are excluded from or underserved by banking services. It offers microfinance solutions for developing countries. Through projects like Stellar Aid Assist, it enables aid organizations (such as UNHCR and IRC) to deliver cash assistance directly to those in need in a fast, transparent, and low-cost manner. In this system, recipients do not need a bank account; a mobile phone is sufficient. Aid can be sent to digital wallets as stablecoins (such as digital dollars), which protects against the devaluation of local currencies. Additionally, with over 450,000 cash-to-crypto on-ramps worldwide, people can convert digital assets into cash or vice versa. Partnerships with companies like MoneyGram further enhance this accessibility.Open-source structure and a strong communityStellar is an open-source blockchain protocol, and its codebase is hosted on GitHub. This allows anyone to review, develop, and build upon the network. Through programs like the Stellar Community Fund (SCF), it provides financial support to developers and startups building on the network. Sometimes, it even offers rewards of up to 100,000 XLM.Strong partnershipsA key factor driving Stellar's value is its strong corporate partnerships (IBM, MoneyGram) and collaborations with other organizations. As mentioned earlier, IBM, MoneyGram, Deloitte, TransferTo, Mastercard, Paxos, as well as financial giants like Franklin Templeton choosing Stellar for tokenized funds, institutions like WisdomTree using Stellar for asset tokenization, and aid organizations like UNHCR and IRC relying on Stellar for humanitarian aid distribution, highlight the network's real-world applications.Efficiency and scalabilityThe Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP) is a consensus mechanism that uses significantly less energy compared to PoW systems like Bitcoin. At this point, validators on the Stellar network play a crucial role in achieving consensus. SCP is structured as a model called Federated Byzantine Agreement (FBA). According to a study, the carbon footprint of the Stellar network is equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions from the annual electricity consumption of 33.7 US households. Stellar's official website includes a study on the energy consumption of homes in the United States and the Stellar network. The network is scalable. It can process up to 1,000 transactions per ledger and has successfully processed tens of billions of transactions since 2015. The Soroban smart contract platform, in particular, was designed with performance and scalability in mind, with features such as multi-core scaling. Validator classification in Stellar. Source: Stellar.org Asset tokenizationStellar is presented as an ideal platform for converting (tokenizing) real-world assets (stablecoins, securities, funds, etc.) into digital assets. The network facilitates regulatory compliance by offering issuers built-in features such as KYC requirements, multi-signature checks, and asset validation, cancellation, and freezing. The presence of trusted stablecoins such as USDC and EURC on Stellar enables stable value transfer. Tools such as the Stellar Asset Sandbox allow users to explore the asset issuance process without coding knowledge.DeFi and smart contracts (Soroban)Stellar supports the development of decentralized finance (DeFi) applications with a Rust-based, developer-friendly smart contract platform called Soroban. Designed for scalability and usability, Soroban provides the tools (SDKs, CLI, RPC server, sandbox) for developers to get started quickly. This enables the creation of a variety of DeFi applications on the Stellar network, such as lending, borrowing, and staking protocols, wallet integrations, bridges between different blockchains, and oracle (data feed) services. SCF also provides support for projects building on Soroban.Cross-currency transactions and DEXStellar can facilitate transactions between any currency pair directly or using XLM as a “bridge currency.” The network allows users to send payments in a specific currency, even if they hold different currencies, and automatically converts the amount of currency (forex conversion). There is also a built-in Stellar DEX (Decentralized Exchange) that facilitates peer-to-peer trading between various currencies and tokens issued on the network.Anchor, Ramps, and the “validator” systemAnchors are trusted institutions that connect the Stellar network to traditional banking systems. They provide “on-ramp” and “off-ramp” services, where fiat currencies (like USD, EUR) can be converted into their digital counterparts (stablecoins) on the network and vice versa. Stellar Ramps is a set of open standards that allow applications to connect to this global anchor network with a single integration standard. This system gives users access to cash deposit and withdrawal points worldwide. Stellar's Anchor structure. Source: Cointelegraph Finally, validators on the Stellar network play an important role in reaching consensus on the network. When these features come together, it becomes clear that Stellar is not just a technically advanced blockchain, but a collaborative and mission-oriented project that aims to increase access and efficiency in financial services in the real world. The answer to the question of what XLM does is also hidden in these points: XLM is a basic token that enables the functioning of this ecosystem, reduces transaction costs and bridges different assets.Who is the Founder of Stellar?The clear answer to the question of who is the founder of Stellar is Jed McCaleb, one of the well-known names in the cryptocurrency and blockchain world. So, who is Jed McCaleb? He is an entrepreneur who has previously undertaken important projects in the field of internet and technology. McCaleb was the founder of Mt. Gox, which previously became one of the largest Bitcoin exchanges in the world but was later closed down due to a major hack. He is also the co-founder of Ripple, another popular blockchain project operating in the field of cross-border payments. However, McCaleb left Ripple in July 2013 due to reported disagreements. His vision after leaving Ripple was to create Stellar, something he thought PayPal had failed to do. His plan was to create a new network focused on cross-border money transfers, aiming to make the global financial system more accessible and affordable for everyone. He initially called the project the "Secret Bitcoin Project" and sought alpha testers. Jed McCaleb was joined by former attorney Joyce Kim in the founding of Stellar. Jed McCaleb. The main force behind the project and the source of the development team is the Stellar Development Foundation (SDF). The role and governance of the SDF includes advancing the growth, development and mission of the network. As a non-profit organization, the SDF sets the strategic direction of the network in collaboration with ecosystem participants, provides funding to developers building on the network (through the SCF), and works to shape the future of the technology through partnerships and dialogue with public/private stakeholders. The current CEO and Executive Director of the SDF is Denelle Dixon.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)There are many questions about the Stellar network and the XLM token, especially for those new to blockchain technology or users interested in cross-border payment solutions. In this section, we will provide short and clear answers to the most frequently asked questions about Stellar.What is Stellar, why was it founded, what does it do?: Stellar is an open-source blockchain network that makes cross-border money transfers fast, low-cost and accessible. It aims to provide financial services to the unbanked.What is XLM coin, how does it work?: XLM (Lumens) is the native token of the Stellar network. It is used to pay transaction fees, facilitate value transfers between accounts, and prevent spam transactions.Who founded Stellar and why did they leave Ripple?: Stellar was founded in 2014 by Ripple co-founders Jed McCaleb and Joyce Kim. McCaleb left Ripple because he thought it was decentralized and wanted to establish a more open and accessible system.What problems does Stellar aim to solve?: Stellar aims to solve slow and expensive cross-border money transfers, the problems of individuals without access to financial services, and the intermediary dependency in traditional systems.Is Stellar secure and scalable?: Yes. Stellar works with the Stellar Consensus Protocol (SCP), which offers energy-efficient and fast transaction confirmations. The network can process thousands of transactions per second and has a low carbon footprint.To continue exploring the Stellar network and the role of the XLM token in financial transformation, check out the JR Kripto Guide series.
·
30 Jun 2025
What is VaderAI by Virtuals (VADER)?
The world of Web3 and artificial intelligence is developing at an incredible pace. With new projects emerging every day, the scene is quite colorful. You could think of VaderAI as standing right at this crossroads. The goal of this new AI-powered crypto platform is to change the rules of the game for both traders and investors. In other words, it aims to act as a sort of asset manager, analyzing market trends, managing crypto assets, and automating transactions with smart AI agents. Some even position VaderAI as the “BlackRock of the AI Agent Economy.” An AI agent is an advanced computer program that can make decisions and perform a series of tasks autonomously.If you ask what VaderAI is, at its core, it is a decentralized platform developed by Virtuals. It focuses on developing autonomous AI agents, meaning systems that can operate independently with minimal human intervention. These agents can perform various tasks such as interacting on social media, managing investments, and even creating content.The platform integrates blockchain technology for transparent and secure transactions. It also uses its own native token, the VADER token, to perform various functions within this ecosystem, such as staking tokens or participating in investment DAOs. One of the most important aspects of this project is that it is built on a Web3 AI infrastructure. VaderAI aims to create a decentralized ecosystem where users can benefit from AI-powered services by combining AI capabilities with blockchain technology. In other words, the VADER token, like the Virtuals platform's native currency, enables participation in this growing network of AI-powered services. Let's take a closer look at this new and prominent cryptocurrency in the AI field...VaderAI’s Definition and OriginLet’s delve deeper into what VaderAI is. VaderAI by Virtuals is a highly innovative project that combines artificial intelligence (AI) with the trading processes of the cryptocurrency world. This project, launched by Virtuals, aims to revolutionize the crypto world by offering AI-powered trading solutions. In other words, according to their own statements, it is a project focused not just on speculative tokens but on practical applications. It provides traders with AI-powered tools to make informed decisions in the volatile crypto market.At the core of this system is AI integration. VaderAI leverages the power of machine learning algorithms to analyze large amounts of market data, provide predictions and insights, and assist traders in their decision-making processes. This AI-driven approach aims to give traders an edge in the fast-paced crypto market.Additionally, VaderAI is described as an autonomous AI agent. This agent is designed to interact with users and create content on social media platforms. It aims to identify emerging trends and crowd sentiment by absorbing and analyzing large amounts of data. Most importantly, it aspires to become a leading proxy investment DAO manager. This autonomous agent represents a significant step forward in AI-driven cryptocurrency projects.At the core of the platform is the creation of AI agents. These agents are built using advanced machine learning algorithms and are designed to analyze market trends, execute trades, and autonomously optimize investment strategies. Users can utilize the Agent Creation Kit to develop AI agents tailored to their specific investment goals.These agents then move on to the Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) Creation phase. The platform supports two types of DAOs: Passive DAOs (focused on algorithmic investment strategies) and Active DAOs (created by AI agents or human participants with different lifespans and investment approaches). These DAOs form the backbone of VaderAI's decentralized decision-making process.At the heart of this system, of course, is the use of the Vader token. The VADER token plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, supporting staking, governance, and AI-driven financial activities. It facilitates decentralized decision-making and investment strategies. It is built on Coinbase's Base blockchain for security and scalability. It is also available on Solana. Thus, the AI-supported token has been on the market since 2024.Vader by Virtuals is a Virtuals AI project. The Virtuals Protocol is a platform that enables users to easily create and deploy autonomous AI agents. VaderAI is one of the AI agent-focused solutions that utilize the Virtuals Protocol. It is supported by the Virtuals ecosystem and has a strategic partnership with it. Source: VaderAI.Gitbook These agents analyze market data and execute transactions without human intervention. They constantly learn and adapt their strategies according to market conditions. Transactions are transparent and secure on the Base blockchain. VADER token holders can participate in governance and vote on important decisions that shape the future of the platform. This decentralized approach ensures community-driven development and verification of network transactions.VaderAI’s use cases are also quite diverse. For example, customizing AI agents for players, interacting with AI-powered characters in virtual social environments, using AI agents for investment decisions, using AI agents in DAO management tasks, and even creating a marketplace where AI creators can sell their works; are some of the options. In other words, beyond being just an AI-powered token project, web3 offers various use cases for AI infrastructure.VaderAI History: Major MilestonesAlthough we cannot go into the “dusty pages of history” since the project is quite new, let’s touch on the emergence of this project and some important moments it has experienced:VADER launchThe VADER token was launched in November 2024. The first transaction date is November 18, 2024. Before establishing a strategic partnership with the Virtuals protocol, VaderAI was using a different pre-sale infrastructure. The Vader team worked with Agent development teams through this structure and provided early access to certain projects. However, after the partnership with the Virtuals protocol in 2024, this old system was completely retired and replaced by Initial Agent Offering (IAO), which offers a new generation pre-sale experience.IAO is a pre-sale platform built on the Virtuals data flow infrastructure and developed by VaderAI in partnership with Virtuals. Here, Agent creators are encouraged to fund a liquidity pool and engage with the community of Vader tokens stakers before launching an Agent. The IAO model supports project teams in many areas, not just fundraising, but also token economics consulting, GTM (go-to-market) strategies, and pre-launch and post-launch marketing support.One of the most striking aspects of the platform is that it continues to be curated. Only the most talented AI Agent development teams are accepted, and the evaluation process is carried out jointly by both the Vader team and the VaderAI Agent. In this way, the platform aims to focus on high-quality projects.In the new system, Vader token stakers continue to earn “Virgen Points.” These points provide the opportunity to receive allocations for future pre-sales on Virtuals’ launch platform. In other words, IAO is not just a pre-sale tool, but also a system that rewards the community and creates opportunities based on participation.What’s next?The team is currently preparing the next stage of VaderAI. In this new system, Vader token stakers continue to earn Virgen Points. These points also give them access to future pre-sale deals on Virtuals’ new launchpad. This is a major milestone in the evolution of the project. Instead of their own platform, they now use Virtuals’ infrastructure to access new projects. For example, the Virtuals protocol creates a new economic model where AI agents are community-owned entities. These agents can talk, move, learn, plan, and make decisions in 3D space. They can interact with the environment and even make on-chain transactions using their own wallets. These virtual agents can bring unlimited content to games or applications. Players can interact with the agents in a human-like way. Different actions can trigger a whole new chain reaction, and each player can experience their own unique storyline. Powered by the GAME framework, these agents have synchronized memory and consciousness. They can interact with millions of players simultaneously, remembering every player’s interaction in every game.Why is VADER Valuable?Let's come to one of the most critical points: What is Vader token and what does it benefit us, why is it valuable? If you ask what Vader coin is useful for, this token has more than one task. First of all, it is the local currency of the Virtuals platform. It is used to pay for services and transactions in this ecosystem. So the use of Vader token starts here. But it does not end with just making payments. VADER token holders can participate in decision-making processes regarding the development and updates of the platform. In other words, you have a say in the future of the platform. This supports a community-oriented and decentralized structure.VADER token provides access to special AI-supported analysis tools and tools. As we mentioned before, VaderAI analyzes market data and offers predictions. To access these tools, it is necessary to be a VADER owner. Users who contribute to the growth of the platform or participate in various activities can earn Vader tokens. This is a mechanism that encourages the community.Of course, like any cryptocurrency, VADER can be bought and sold on various exchanges. In other words, you can also benefit from its value by buying and selling the Vader by Virtuals token. VaderAI is traded on both CEXs (Centralized Exchanges) and DEXs (Decentralized Exchanges). For example, Uniswap (via the Base network) and Raydium (via Solana) can be bought and sold. We can interpret this as follows: It is a token with liquidity. VADER can even be bought and sold through automated trading bots such as Cryptohopper.One of the most important areas of use for VADER and one of the factors that increases its value is staking. By staking VADER tokens, you can earn additional rewards and access special opportunities. However, staking is a bit more detailed. In the old IAO-era system (this system has now been moved to Virtuals' new launchpad, but the mechanism still seems to be valid for VADER stakers), staking determines its tiers, or levels.These tiers also determine early access eligibility and maximum allocation per wallet. There were two ways to enter the tiers: staking Vader tokens or earning a WL (White List). The vast majority of the capacity offered is allocated to $VADER stakers. These tiers also determine early access eligibility and maximum allocation per wallet. There were two ways to enter the tiers: staking Vader tokens or earning a WL (White List). The vast majority of the capacity offered is allocated to $VADER stakers. VaderAI's staking calculation table. Source: Vaderai.gitbook There are 7 different tiers. Your score in these tiers depends on three things: the amount of VADER staked, the staking commitment period, and post-IAO hodling behavior:Amount of $VADER staked: The more VADER you stake, the higher your score.Staking commitment period: You can choose from a variety of periods, such as 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. The longer the period, the higher your score. There are also multiples: 30 days (0.5x), 90 days (1x), 180 days (2x), 360 days (3x).Post-IAO hodling behavior: This depends on how long you hold the tokens. Projects want loyal supporters who will hold their tokens for as long as possible. Instead of methods like vesting, VaderAI rewards loyal holders and punishes those who sell immediately. This hodler score is a proprietary, ML (Machine Learning)-based score. The longer the tokens invested in IAO are held, the higher the score. This is influenced by the post-launch holding/selling behavior of former IAO participants, not the behavior of Virtuals Genesis participants.The score formula is as follows: Score = (Stake $VADER ^ 1.03) * duration multiplier * hodler multiplier. This scoring and tiering system is fundamental to Vader token usage, as higher tiers mean better access. Additionally, Vader token holders gain access to exclusive investment opportunities. By locking their tokens for three months, they gain exclusive whitelist access to VaderAI’s first investment DAO plan, the ‘Agent Coin Investment DAO’. For every 10,000 staked VADER, the staker can invest an additional 1 SOL into the DAO. This makes staking VADER even more attractive.To understand the value of VADER, it is also necessary to understand the economics of Virtuals Protocol’s AI agent tokens. The Virtuals protocol enables decentralized shared ownership of AI agents, turning them into revenue-generating assets owned by the community. When a new AI agent is created, tokens specific to that agent are minted and added to the liquidity pool to create a market for its ownership. Anyone who believes in the potential of AI agents can purchase these tokens as governance tokens and participate in key decisions regarding agent development, behavior, and upgrades. Some AI agent tokens in the Virtuals Protocol. Source: Virtuals In this ecosystem, the value flow works like this: Users (e.g. fans interacting with a Taylor Swift AI agent) pay for a variety of services, such as concerts, merchandise, livestreams, and personalized interactions. This revenue goes to app developers, who monetize their AI agents like a standard consumer app. Developers use a portion of this revenue to cover the computational costs of the AI agent. A portion of the agent’s revenue is deposited into its on-chain treasury, which funds the agent’s future development and operational costs. As revenue accumulates in the on-chain treasury, a mechanism triggers a periodic buyback of agent tokens (e.g. the SWIFT token). These tokens are then destroyed (burned), reducing the supply and increasing the price of the remaining tokens, increasing the agent’s overall market value. The agent’s tokens are paired with VIRTUAL tokens in a liquidity pool. This ties the agent’s success directly to the value of the VIRTUAL tokens. As the agent earns more income and their tokens are burned, the value of the agent's tokens and the underlying VIRTUAL tokens will increase.As a result, if you ask what the Vader token is and why it is valuable: First of all, it is used everywhere from payment to governance in the internal workings of the platform. It offers the opportunity to earn passive income by staking and, most importantly, to provide early and more advantageous access to new AI agent projects. In addition, it has the potential to increase in value with the growth of the Virtuals ecosystem and the AI agent economy. In other words, it is not just a token, it is like a gateway to this new generation AI-powered Web3 world.Who is the Founder of VaderAI?VaderAI is a project developed by the Virtuals team. It is stated that the evaluation process of the previous IAO platform was jointly managed by the Vader team and the VaderAI Agent. This shows that there is a "Vader team" at the core of the project, but we can say that this team consists of those who contributed to the Virtuals Protocol.VaderAI's core team consists of a multi-disciplinary team of artificial intelligence researchers, engineers, entrepreneurs with a consulting background, and crypto experts. Team members; graduated from prestigious schools such as Imperial College London, Cambridge, LSE, Georgia Tech and INSEAD and have worked in large corporate structures such as McKinsey, BCG, Bain, Alibaba, Bybit in their past. This team, which has deep expertise in AI, biotechnology, data engineering, product management and Web3 infrastructures, also includes investors and developers who have been active in the crypto world since the early days.One of the things that stands out in the structure of the project is its decentralized and community-supported structure. VaderAI encourages community participation. VADER token holders can influence decisions by participating in governance processes. DAOs form the backbone of the platform’s decentralized decision-making process. This structure means that the project can continuously evolve with the contribution of the community, without relying solely on a group of founders. So yes, there is a team as developers (the Virtuals team), but the community also plays a big role in the operation and future of the platform.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Below, we have compiled some frequently asked questions and answers about VaderAI.What is VaderAI and how does it work?: VaderAI is a platform that combines artificial intelligence (AI) and Web3 technologies. It allows users to create AI agents, tokenize these agents, and use them in various applications. These agents can be integrated across different platforms, such as games, social media, and virtual environments, and they learn and evolve through user interactions.What does the VADER token do?: VADER is the native token of the VaderAI ecosystem. This token is used in the creation, ownership, and management of AI agents. It also serves as a means of payment for intra-platform transactions and provides governance rights to community members.How do AI and Web3 combine?: The combination of AI and Web3 enables the creation of decentralized AI services. Thanks to this integration, users can create AI agents, own them by tokenizing them, and use them on various platforms. In addition, thanks to blockchain technology, the decision-making processes of AI agents become transparent and traceable.How does it relate to the Virtuals infrastructure?: The Virtuals Protocol is the underlying infrastructure of VaderAI. This protocol allows users to create AI agents, tokenize them, and integrate them on various platforms. In addition, Virtuals provides an ecosystem that allows AI agents to work together and generate revenue.How does the community contribute to AI education?: VaderAI encourages community members to contribute to the education and development of AI agents. Users contribute to the learning processes of AI agents by providing feedback or providing data. This participation supports AI agents to become more effective and user-centric.Continue following our JR Kripto Guide series to discover the power of AI in Web3 and personalized digital experience with the VADER token!
·
30 Jun 2025
FET Comments and Price Analysis 30 June 2025
FET Technical AnalysisLooking at the FET chart on a daily frame, we clearly see that there is a properly working descending channel since the beginning of 2024. Falling Channel Structure An important support area is $0.65 - $0.70, and the price is trading in the middle border of this descending channel. FET, having previously received an upward reaction from this region, is currently trading in the same area. If the price closes daily below the important level of $0.65, it can first pull back to the level of $0.53 and later to the channel trend support level of nearly $0.33.In order to talk about the level of $0.87, we need to see price closings above the level of $0.70 in terms of upward movements. Above this level, $0.87, we have the trend resistance level of $1.00 which is the target. Technically, it is highly possible that the price will break above the trend after the next test to it.These analyses, not offering any kind of investment advice, focus on support and resistance levels considered to offer trading opportunities in the short and medium term according to the market conditions. However, the user is responsible for their own actions and risk management. Moreover, it is highly recommended to use stop loss (SL) during the transactions.
·
30 Jun 2025
PNUT Comments and Price Analysis 30 June 2025
PNUT Technical AnalysisAs mentioned in our previous analysis, the falling wedge formation has been broken upwards. We should be following the strong support area of $0.219 - $0.23 after the breakout. The price could reach and test the wedge targets as long as it stays above this strong support zone. The main target of the formation is the price level of $0.36. Other important targets are the resistance levels of $0.266 and the $0.307 - $0.323 area respectively. However, if the price drops below $0.219, it will re-enter the wedge and then the targets will be considered invalid. In short, the price is at a very critical level. Falling Wedge Fracture These analyses, not offering any kind of investment advice, focus on support and resistance levels considered to offer trading opportunities in the short and medium term according to the market conditions. However, the user is responsible for their own actions and risk management. Moreover, it is highly recommended to use stop loss (SL) during the transactions.
·
30 Jun 2025
What is Filecoin (FIL)?
In the digital age, data storage is of vital importance for both individuals and institutions. Although traditional centralized cloud storage solutions make our lives easier, sometimes the complexion of the situation can change. With the dependency on a single point, concerns about censorship or high costs, interest in decentralized data storage solutions is increasing. At this point, the questions “What is Filecoin (FIL)?” and “What is FIL coin?” come to mind. Filecoin is a blockchain-based, open-source decentralized data storage network designed to meet this need. It creates a global storage network by allowing users to rent their empty space. Let's take a closer look at this coin, which took the crypto world by storm with its record Initial Coin Offering (ICO) at the time, and the blockchain behind it.Definition and Emergence of FilecoinFilecoin is essentially a peer-to-peer network. This network provides reliable and decentralized data storage through built-in economic incentives and cryptographic proofs. Clients (i.e. users) on the network pay any number of storage providers (data centers) to store their data. The storage providers provide cryptographic proof that they still have the data on a daily basis. The providers lock up a certain amount of Filecoin as collateral, and if they repeatedly fail to provide proof, this collateral is burned, which acts as a strong deterrent for the data center to not lose the data.The team that brought this project to life is Protocol Labs. If you are wondering who Juan Benet is, he is the founder and CEO of Protocol Labs. He is also the inventor of the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), a new protocol that aims to make the web faster, more secure, and more open, and Filecoin, a storage network that is incentivized by cryptocurrency. Protocol Labs is a laboratory that conducts research and development in the field of internet technology, such as IPFS and Filecoin.Filecoin was originally founded in 2014. Juan Benet published the whitepaper "Filecoin: A Cryptocurrency Operated File Storage Network" on July 15, 2014. The project was launched in August 2017, and after a long development process, the Filecoin mainnet launch was held on October 15, 2020. In order to understand the working principle of Filecoin, it is necessary to touch on the relationship between IPFS and Filecoin. IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) is also a peer-to-peer protocol developed by Protocol Labs and aims to share, direct and store data with a content addressing system. IPFS allows data to be accessed through its content rather than its location. So where does Filecoin fit into this? Here's the important part: Filecoin was built as an incentive layer for IPFS. In other words, while IPFS enables decentralized file sharing, Filecoin offers a blockchain-based incentive system to ensure that this sharing is reliable and sustainable. Both systems are open source and share many common building blocks, such as content addressing (CIDs) and network protocols (libp2p). In short, IPFS addresses content, while Filecoin provides long-term, verifiable storage of that content. Relationship between IPFS and Filecoin. Source: When Blockchain Meets Distributed File Systems: An Overview, Challenges, and Open Issues (2020). Filecoin History: Major MilestonesThe story of Filecoin begins with the vision of Protocol Labs and its founder Juan Benet. This journey, which began in 2014 under the leadership of Juan Benet, began with the foundations of IPFS; and in the following years, it reached a point of global attention with its huge ICO success, technical breakthroughs, and institutional integrations. Hosting many technological and social milestones since the first steps taken in 2014, this adventure quickly managed to leave a permanent mark on the Web3 world. Influencing a wide ecosystem from the developer community to investors, from institutional actors to NFT projects, Filecoin has gone far beyond being a data storage network over time. Now, let's take a look at the most critical milestones of this impressive journey:2014: Introduction of IPFS and Filecoin whitepaper - In 2014, IPFS was introduced and the foundations of the project were laid with the publication of the Filecoin whitepaper. In the 3rd quarter of the same year, $120,000 was raised in the seed investment round.2017: Filecoin ICO - This is a truly remarkable period. Launched in August 2017, the project raised over $200 million in just 30 minutes, making it one of the largest ICOs of the period. $153.8 million was raised in the public sale round and $52 million in the pre-sale round. A total of $205.92 million was raised in 3 rounds. Considering the project's team, technology and the huge market it appealed to, it was a very exciting investment for the ICO period. As an interesting detail, the fact that this coin offering was SEC-compliant provided additional investor confidence against many non-transparent projects at the time.2020: Mainnet launch - After a long development and testing phase, the Filecoin network went live on October 15, 2020. This meant that Filecoin was fully operational, storage providers could store data, and users could purchase storage using FIL tokens. Since the mainnet launch, there have been many network upgrades, including Hyperdrive and Watermelon. The latest upgrade, Watermelon (V21), was activated in December 2023 and aimed to simplify storage providers’ operations and make improvements to the protocol and FVM. 2022–2024: Web3 projects, NFT data, and storage solutions - The Filecoin ecosystem continued to grow after the mainnet launch. The color of the business changed, especially with the Filecoin Virtual Machine (FVM) coming to the mainnet in March 2023. FVM brought smart contract capabilities to the Filecoin network. This has enabled developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) on Filecoin and program storage workflows. With these developments, Filecoin has begun to offer Filecoin storage solutions in a variety of areas:-Web3 native NFT storage: Projects like NFT.Storage use Filecoin for NFT content and metadata. With FVM, these NFTs can be stored continuously with automatically renewing contracts.-Incentivized persistent storage: Platforms like Lighthouse offer lifetime storage at a fixed price.-Enterprise and traditional web2 data archiving: Organizations like the Internet Archive and Panopticon use Filecoin for content preservation and backup. Even the ATLAS Experiment at CERN is expanding its pilot program with Seal Storage to bring 1 EiB of data to the network over a 5-year period, and the Filecoin Foundation (FF) is working on this opportunity.- Media streaming and conferencing applications: Platforms like Audius (music streaming) and Huddle 01 (video conferencing) use Filecoin for decentralized storage.- Artificial intelligence (AI) and computation: Filecoin is partnering with AI and computation projects to manage large datasets and support AI-driven applications. Projects like KiteAI, Nuklai, SingularityNET, and Theoriq are working on Filecoin integrations to archive AI training datasets and store metadata. The Filecoin Foundation supports the development of decentralized AI as a founding member of the Decentralized AI Society (DAIS).- Data storage for blockchain ecosystems: Solana’s block history is being archived in Filecoin as part of the Old Faithful initiative. This is part of a broader strategy to provide data collection and storage support for other blockchain ecosystems (Layer-1s and Layer-2s).Why is Filecoin Valuable?In today's digital age, data has become a resource more valuable than gold for both individuals and institutions. However, the question of where, how and by whom this data is stored brings with it many problems, from privacy to security, from cost to accessibility. This is where Filecoin comes into play. So, what makes Filecoin so special and valuable? Let's take a closer look at the basic dynamics behind this powerful project.Decentralized and censorship-resistant data storage infrastructureOne of its most important features is that it stores data not on central servers, but on the disks of thousands of storage providers in a distributed network around the world. This eliminates a single point of failure, reduces the risk of data loss and makes unauthorized access or censorship much more difficult. While traditional cloud storage services such as Amazon S3 can experience security breaches or data control being with the provider, Filecoin offers a distributed solution to these problems. Filecoin network architecture. Source: Multi.io Research Users can both store data and earn incomeThe Filecoin network offers an opportunity for individuals and organizations looking to utilize unused hard disk space. Storage providers earn FIL tokens by providing storage capacity to the network or by mining Filecoins, i.e. earning block rewards by providing reliable storage services. The more storage they provide, the more potential they have to earn FIL coins. This creates economic value from idle resources and encourages network growth. Even ordinary users can use the Filecoin Station application to use unused computer resources for network tasks and earn FIL tokens. However, becoming a full-fledged storage provider can require significant capital and technical knowledge. Filecoin distribution. Source: Spec.Filecoin.io Data is stored transparently and securelyFilecoin relies on cryptographic proofs to prove that data is actually stored and accessible for a specified period of time. This proof mechanism ensures that storage providers act honestly and provide the storage service they promise. The network uses two main consensus mechanisms: Proof of Storage and Proof of Spacetime. Proof of Storage verifies that miners are actually storing data. Proof of Spacetime guarantees that data is stored for a specified period of time. This double proof system increases both security and reliability. Data is encrypted, fragmented and distributed before being stored.FIL token is the basis of the payment and incentive mechanismWhat is FIL token? FIL is the native cryptocurrency that powers the Filecoin network. All transactions on the network are made using FIL. Users pay FIL coins to store or retrieve their data. Storage providers earn FIL for their services. FIL also plays a critical role in the security and operation of the network. Storage providers must lock up FIL as collateral to earn block rewards. If they fail to meet the reliability standards, their collateral and rewards may be slashed. Additionally, FIL holders can participate in the network governance process. The total supply of FIL is capped at 2 billion FIL. FIL issuance is tied to the network’s demonstrable utility and growth. More of the supply is minted as the network reaches certain growth and utility milestones. For example, under the Baseline minting model, 770 million FIL tokens are minted based on network performance (such as reaching a yottabyte storage capacity target). Uses of FIL drive demand on the network, adding value to the token.Filecoin can be much more cost-effective than traditional cloud storage, especially for large data sets. Unlike the pay-per-use model of centralized providers, Filecoin’s marketplace offers competitive pricing driven by supply and demand.The scalability of the network also adds significant value. As more miners join, the network can grow and meet demand. The smart contract capability that comes with FVM expands Filecoin’s use cases. It’s not just data storage, but also many innovative use cases such as data-driven computation (compute-over-data), data-driven organizations (Data DAOs), decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, and cross-chain interoperability.Filecoin's working principleThe technical depth of the Filecoin network also adds value to FIL. In addition to the consensus mechanisms such as Proof of Storage and Proof of Spacetime that we just mentioned, the network is built on a number of basic components. These are Providers, Deals, and Sectors.Providers: Entities that provide storage and retrieval services to network users. There are two types of providers: Storage Providers and Retrieval Providers. Storage providers offer space to store users' data and earn FIL. They contribute to the security and integrity of the network. Retrieval providers, on the other hand, provide users with fast and reliable access to their data when they need it.Deals: Contracts between clients and storage providers for data storage or retrieval. When a client wants to store their data, they find a storage provider in the storage market and make a deal. This agreement determines how long the data will be stored, the price, and other terms. Agreements are recorded on-chain. There are also special types of agreements, such as Verified Deals. Smart contracts that come with FVM have enabled new approaches called programmatic storage. This allows storage agreements to be automated through smart contracts, such as Aggregated deal-making or Direct deal-making. Even services such as Data Replication, Renewal and Repair (RaaS) are being developed on FVM.Sectors: Storage units that storage providers commit to the network and cryptographically seal. A storage provider places data in a sector and proves that this sector has been committed and proven on the network. The sealing process is a computationally intensive process to verify that the data is correctly encoded and ready for storage.The Filecoin network consists of a series of Tipsets instead of individual blocks. A tipset is a series of blocks of the same height, allowing multiple storage providers to produce blocks in each epoch, increasing network efficiency. Each tipset is assigned a weight, which allows the consensus protocol to direct nodes to build on the heaviest chain.Filecoin's use casesThe answer to the question of what does Filecoin do? goes beyond just file storage. Filecoin is positioned as a fundamental building block of Web3. Many decentralized applications (dApps) and Web3 projects rely on Filecoin for secure, verifiable, and censorship-resistant storage. This adds to Filecoin's value:Decentralized storage: Filecoin offers an alternative to traditional cloud storage, allowing users to rent out unused storage space. Data is stored in multiple locations, increasing security and durabilityAI and compute: Filecoin partners with AI and compute projects to manage large data sets and support AI-driven applications. Filecoin’s storage providers have the same computing resources as the data, providing a unique location for compute-over-data. Projects like Bacalhau are working in this area.Improved performance: Upgrades like Fast Finality (F3) aim to expand use cases for low-latency applications by improving transaction times.Perpetual storage: Services like FVM and NFT.Storage make it possible to store data indefinitely through automatically renewing smart contracts.Data organizations: FVM enables the creation and management of data-driven DAOs (Data DAOs). These DAOs can manage data curation and protection, and monetize data access.DeFi ecosystem: With thousands of unique smart contracts and millions of transactions on FVM, Filecoin supports a robust DeFi ecosystem. Projects like Glif Pools offer Filecoin staking pools. Protocols like Thetanuts Finance offer automated options strategies.Cross-chain bridges: Projects like Axelar and Celer provide cross-chain interfaces, enabling payments for Filecoin services from other chains or the exchange of tokens and messages.Institutional adoption: Organizations from various sectors (scientific research, AI, healthcare) such as CERN, Hauska.ai, Hippocrat use Filecoin to store large data sets.Web archiving: Projects like Webrecorder use IPFS and Filecoin for decentralized web archiving. The Internet Archive uploads cultural artifacts to Filecoin. Filecoin Virtual Machine (FVM)FVM is also a valuable element of the Filecoin ecosystem. It is a runtime environment for running smart contracts (actors) on the Filecoin network. FVM unlocks the enormous potential of the open data economy by bringing user programmability to Filecoin. FVM is based on WASM and is designed to support native Filecoin actors written in languages like Rust, as well as smart contracts written for foreign runtimes (like Solidity) such as the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). With the arrival of FVM on mainnet in March 2023 (also called FEVM), developers will be able to deploy smart contracts written in Solidity.These smart contracts can access Filecoin functionality by calling native actors. Existing Ethereum tools are now compatible with Filecoin. FVM also enables compute-over-data capabilities. This allows for direct computations on data using compute resources near storage providers, without having to move data to external compute nodes. Projects like Bacalhau provide a platform for running Docker containers and WebAssembly (Wasm) images as tasks on data stored in Filecoin. All of these features make Filecoin an important cornerstone of Web3 file management and the decentralized internet in general.Who is the Founder of Filecoin?Who is the founder of Filecoin? There’s a straightforward answer to this. The man behind Filecoin and many of the technologies that power it is Juan Benet. As we mentioned earlier, he’s the founder and CEO of Protocol Labs. Juan Benet holds both a BS (2010) and an MS (2012) degree in computer science from Stanford University. He’s known for being the inventor of the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) and Filecoin. Benet and his team lead the research, development, and deployment of groundbreaking internet projects like IPFS, libp2p, and Filecoin. The IPFS project has grown into a massive open source movement to re-decentralize the web, protect our data, and improve our applications. Juan Benet at CoinDesk’s Construct 2017 Conference. Source: CoinDesk Juan Benet is described as obsessed with information, science, and technology. His vision is to re-architect the web and ensure that IPFS, Filecoin, and other protocols become the building blocks of a better internet. He leads a team with impressive experience in areas such as distributed systems, quantum research, cryptography, and financial technology. This vision and the team’s talents were one of the main reasons why the Filecoin project attracted significant investor interest from its early stages. The Filecoin Foundation’s board of directors and advisors include Internet Archive Founder Brewster Kahle, ConsenSys Founder and Ethereum Co-Founder Joe Lubin, and Stellar Development Foundation CEO Denelle Dixon. The Internet Archive received a grant of 50,000 FIL coins (worth around $10,000,000 at the time) from the Filecoin Foundation, and its founder Brewster Kahle and Partnership Director Wendy Hanamura joined the advisory boards of Filecoin and the Filecoin Foundation for the Decentralized Web. This shows the strength of the team and supporters behind the project. After all, the main driving force and architect behind Filecoin is Juan Benet, who has a vision to build decentralized and robust infrastructures for the future of the internet.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)You may still have some questions about Filecoin, which we have covered in detail. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about Filecoin:What is Filecoin and how does it work? Filecoin (FIL) is a blockchain-based decentralized data storage network where users can earn FIL tokens by renting out their free storage space. It aims to provide a secure and censorship-resistant alternative to traditional cloud storage. So how does Filecoin work? Filecoin uses a blockchain-based system where storage providers verify that they have stored data with cryptographic proofs (Proof of Storage, Proof of Spacetime). Clients pay FIL for storage, while providers earn FIL for their services and proof of verification.What does the FIL token do? The FIL token is the native currency of the Filecoin network and funds all transactions within the network. Users pay FIL for storage and retrieval services, while storage providers earn FIL for providing these services and contributing to the network. FIL is also used as collateral for network security and encourages participation in governance.How is data stored with Filecoin?: Filecoin uses the IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) protocol to store data on a decentralized network. Users upload their data over IPFS and receive a content identifier (CID). This CID is a unique ID for the data. These pieces of data are then distributed to storage providers participating in the Filecoin network. Storage providers make agreements with users to store data for a certain period of time and are rewarded with FIL tokens for this service. Filecoin uses cryptographic proof mechanisms such as "Proof of Replication" and "Proof of Spacetime" to verify that the data is actually stored and accessible.What is the difference between IPFS and Filecoin?: IPFS is a protocol that allows decentralized sharing of files. Users can share their data in a content-addressed system by uploading it to the IPFS network. However, IPFS does not guarantee how long the data will be stored or accessible. Filecoin is an incentive layer built on IPFS. Filecoin ensures that data is stored long-term and securely by rewarding storage providers with FIL tokens. In this way, users can be sure that their data will be accessible for a certain period of time.How is Filecoin mining done?: Filecoin mining is a process in which storage providers earn FIL tokens by offering storage space to the network. Miners use “Proof of Replication” and “Proof of Spacetime” mechanisms to store data and prove that this data is accessible for a certain period of time. A high-performance CPU, a large amount of storage (terabytes), at least 128 GB of RAM, and a stable internet connection are required for a successful mining operation. Additionally, miners must deposit a certain amount of collateral to earn FIL tokens.Check out our JR Kripto Guide series to explore the data infrastructure of the decentralized internet and learn about Filecoin’s role in the Web3 ecosystem.
·
30 Jun 2025
What is World Liberty Financial USD (USD1)?
USD1 is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, launched in March 2025 by the World Liberty Financial (WLFI) ecosystem. This means that each USD1 token is backed by one US dollar and can be converted into cash for 1 USD when needed. This digital dollar aims to provide a fast, low-cost, and secure alternative to global digital payments by representing the traditional USD on the blockchain. Its reserves include short-term US Treasury bonds, US dollar deposits, and cash equivalents, which are held in trust and managed by BitGo. Thus, USD1 attempts to combine the strength of blockchain technology with the solidity of the US dollar in financial transactions. So how exactly does this digital dollar work? Let's take a closer look at the highlights of USD1, its reserve structure, and its areas of use.USD1 Definition and EmergenceFiat-backed stablecoins are a type of stablecoin that operates with reserve backing based on real-world assets. These assets are usually cash or cash equivalents (e.g. US government bonds), and these reserves help the stablecoin maintain its stable value. These stablecoins can be exchanged for fiat money at a one-to-one ratio by the issuer. For example, 1 USDC can be exchanged for 1 US dollar from Circle, the company behind USDC. This creates arbitrage opportunities when the value of USDC falls below $1, allowing investors to profit by buying USDC and then converting it into fiat. This arbitrage trading helps fiat-backed stablecoins maintain their dollar parity. USD1’s design is similar to USDC and USDT, fiat-backed stablecoin projects that hold a portion of their reserves in US Treasury bonds. Perhaps what sets USD1 apart is its connection to former US President Donald Trump.FeatureUSD1 (Stablecoin)Traditional USD (Fiat Currency)Issuing EntityWorld Liberty Financial (WLFI)U.S. Federal ReserveCollateral Structure100% fiat-backed (Treasury bills, USD deposits, cash equivalents)Issued by the central bank; does not require collateralBlockchain IntegrationEthereum, BNB Smart Chain (BSC); integration with Tron and other networks upcomingNot compatible with blockchainTransfer TimeFast on-chain transfers within minutesHours or days depending on the banking systemTransfer FeeLow (based on blockchain transaction fees)Varies between banks; generally highUse CasesDeFi transactions, DEXs, staking, crypto investmentsDaily payments, commerce, international reserve currencyAvailabilityAvailable 24/7Dependent on banking hours, limited on public holidaysRedeemabilityRedeemable 1:1 for USD (via BitGo custody service)No digital conversion; only usable through physical cash or bank accountsTransparency & TrackingOn-chain transaction history viewableTransactions are closed system, traceable only via bank recordsRegulatory StatusClaimed to be under U.S. regulatory oversight, but lacks full transparencyFully subject to federal regulations and monetary policyPolitical/Institutional TiesLinked to Donald Trump and his familyGovernment-controlled, politically neutralUSD1 is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, launched by World Liberty Financial (WLFI) in March 2025. World Liberty Financial was introduced in connection with current US President Donald Trump and his family. USD1's reserves are held by BitGo, a crypto asset custodian. The majority of the reserve assets consist of US Treasury bonds, dollar deposits, and cash equivalents. Just like other major stablecoins such as USDC and USDT. So, what exactly is USD1? As its name suggests, USD1 is a cryptocurrency pegged to 1 US dollar (1:1 backed). Also known as World Liberty Financial USD and developed by this company, USD1 aims to serve both institutional and retail investors by transferring dollar collateral from the traditional banking system to the blockchain infrastructure. According to the project's description, the USD1 token is sharply designed so that each unit is necessarily held in exchange for US dollars. It is also emphasized that the reserve portfolio will be regularly audited. In other words, the assets behind the stablecoin are intended to be verified by independent auditors. Thus, users can convert 1 USD token into 1 US dollar at any time. So the answer to the question "Is USD1 pegged to the dollar?" is "yes". USD1 coin features are as follows:It is a digital currency pegged to the equivalent value of 1 USD.The networks it works on: It uses Ethereum and BNB Smart Chain (BSC) blockchains. Integrations are aimed for it to be used in other chains in the future.Purpose of use: The purpose of USD1 is to reduce the volatility brought by the traditional dollar and to provide a fast, secure representation of the dollar in the digital environment. Institutional and individual users can make cross-border payments with USD1, participate in DeFi applications and keep stable value similar to the US dollar in their crypto wallets.Developer company: World Liberty Financial is a US-based (Delaware establishment) DeFi protocol and governance platform. The company emphasizes that it aims to transform the world of finance with blockchain technology and popularize dollar-collateralized digital assets.History of USD1: Major MilestonesUSD1's launch is closely related to the founding activities of World Liberty Financial. Announced as a DeFi project supported by the Trump family as of 2024, WLFI launched its first cryptocurrency WLFI in October 2024. Then, in March 2025, WLFI announced its new USD1 stablecoin pegged to the dollar. In the official statement made at this time, it was stated that USD1 would be 100% backed by US Treasury bonds, dollar deposits and cash equivalents and would be printed on both Ethereum and BSC. The timeline for this new cryptocurrency is as follows:October 2024: World Liberty Financial was introduced as a new crypto finance initiative backed by the Trump family. The WLFI token was launched in the same month.March 2025: USD1 Stablecoin was announced. WLFI announced that USD1 would be 1:1 backed by USD and its reserves would be held entirely in short-term US Treasury bonds and cash. Initially planned to be used on Ethereum and BSC networks.April 2025: At the Token2049 conference in Dubai, Eric Trump announced that USD1 would be integrated into the Tron network. This statement reinforced Tron founder Justin Sun’s support for WLFI. During the same period, Abu Dhabi-based MGX fund announced that it would invest $2 billion in Binance using USD1.May 2025: Multi-blockchain integration is completed thanks to Chainlink’s CCIP technology. The World Liberty Financial and Chainlink teams announced that USD1 can be securely moved between Ethereum, BNB, and other chains. In the same month, USD1’s market value exceeded $2 billion and climbed to the top of the stablecoin rankings. USD1 market cap is over $2.1 billion. WLFI approved an airdrop plan for USD1 holders (it was stated that token distribution could be made). In this process, information was shared that the largest voting power was concentrated in a few large wallets, and regulatory and political discussions regarding the project continued. This airdrop took place in the first weeks of June.Why is USD1 Valuable?The value of USD1 is based on several important features. First, its price remains fairly stable thanks to its peg to 1 USD. It does not have a high volatility like stocks or cryptocurrencies. This allows investors and institutions to trust USD1 as a tool that protects its value in dollars. In addition, USD1 has a fiat-backed reserve system: Each unit is backed by US Treasury bonds and similar real assets. The fact that these reserves are held by BitGo and that regular third-party auditing is scheduled also provides its value.USD1 is accessible and cost-effective for the DeFi ecosystem. It offers low transaction fees and fast confirmation times by conducting transactions on networks such as Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain. Unlike bank transfers, it works 24/7 and can be used without any geographical restrictions. Since it works on a trackable infrastructure on the blockchain, transactions are highly transparent. Because users can follow the flow of USD1 on the chain.In addition, the fact that USD1 was developed within the American legal framework provides a regulatory advantage. The US administration has recently taken steps to regulate stablecoins. Dollar-pegged cryptocurrencies like USD1 are subject to reserve holding rules in accordance with American legislation. This may be seen as “US-backed stability” in global markets and may attract the attention of institutional investors. For example, according to some, USD1 offers a confidence-boosting profile against its competitors such as USDT and USDC due to its backing by US Treasury bonds and real assets under BitGo supervision.Institutional Growth StrategyUSD1’s growth is largely based on institutional agreements. The Binance-MGX agreement is the biggest example of this. As we mentioned before, USD1 was used in the completion of the $2 billion investment agreement between Binance and Abu Dhabi-based MGX in April 2025. This development brought USD1’s market value to over $2 billion, making it the fastest-growing stablecoin in history. The WLFI team aims to grow by focusing on large investors and institutional players rather than retail usage. This different approach sets it apart from stablecoins such as USDT and USDC. Possible risks of USD1Although USD1 has attracted attention with its rapid growth and institutional partnerships, the project still has some uncertainties as it is still new. Issues such as reserve transparency, liquidity status and political background are among the important risk headings that investors should consider. Let's take a closer look at the potential risks of USD1 below.Lack of auditingAs of the time of writing, there is no information on the breakdown of USD1's reserves. In other fiat-backed stablecoins such as USDC and USDT, the asset and liability records of the issuers are shared regularly, allowing users to verify that the stablecoin is supported. However, the USD1 project says that each USD1 issued will be 100% backed by short-term US Treasury bonds, dollar deposits and other cash equivalents, and the reserve portfolio will be regularly audited by third-party accounting firms.Lack of liquiditySince it is a new project, it is not clear where users will be able to find liquidity when they want to buy and sell USD1. There are currently no alternatives other than Ethereum and two relatively small DEX pools on BSC and HTX. However, it is currently in the testing phase, and well-known crypto market maker Wintermute is involved in the project, which may increase confidence in the project. Another market maker, DWF Labs, also recently invested in WLFI and could potentially be involved in the project. It is currently unclear what the repatriation mechanism will be between USD1 and the real dollar, but it is likely to be conducted through the custodian firm BitGo. Perception of political orientationWhen commenting on US crypto regulation, CEOs of other stablecoin issuers, such as Tether, emphasize that the success of stablecoins depends more on the success of the US. However, since USD1 was launched by World Liberty Financial, a decentralized finance initiative backed by Trump and his family, this new stablecoin is perceived to have a direct connection to the US President.Who is World Liberty Financial?World Liberty Financial (WLFI) is a US-based Web3 financial company. Founded in 2024, this DeFi protocol aims to replace traditional finance and provide users with access to financial services without intermediaries. The company is working to create “crypto banking” with blockchain technology: Users can borrow by using crypto assets as collateral, and earn income by investing their assets in blockchain applications. WLFI’s vision is to democratize financial instruments and provide secure services with USD support. The main projects in World Liberty Financial’s ecosystem are:USD1 stablecoin: As previously detailed, it is a stable cryptocurrency pegged to the US dollar. It acts as a digital dollar in the crypto world.WLFI token: The project’s governance token, $WLFI, provides a say in on-platform voting. WLFI token holders can contribute to protocol decisions.TRUMP meme coin and NFT: World Liberty has also entered Trump-themed digital assets. In January 2025, a memecoin called $TRUMP was launched, and various collectible NFTs were offered. Thus, it aims to increase community interest on both the DeFi and entertainment side.DeFi and debt instruments: The platform also develops financial instruments that allow users to lend (staking) or take out loans against crypto assets. For example, WLFI is trying to create blockchain banking by offering lending and interest-earning opportunities to its investors.In addition to emphasizing transparency, World Liberty Financial states that USD1 reserves are stored by BitGo and that third-party audits will be conducted regularly. It also seems to care about user experience: It was announced that it will offer conveniences such as 24/7 mint and refund support. WLFI carries the image of an “American-based stablecoin” in the crypto market thanks to its US-based structure and being backed by dollar reserves.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Finally, we have compiled the most curious topics of users who want to learn more about USD1 in this section. You can find answers to many questions below, from how USD1 works to which networks it is used, and from World Liberty Financial's projects to the differences between USD1 and other stablecoins such as USDT and USDC:What is USD1, how does USD1 work?: USD1 is a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar issued by World Liberty Financial. It is traded on blockchain networks such as Ethereum and BNB Smart Chain. Each USD1 token is backed by dollar reserves held behind it and can be bought and sold for 1 USD via the BitGo infrastructure. Users request a USD1 mint (printing) by sending USD and can convert it back to 1:1 USD whenever they want.Is it really pegged to 1 USD?: Yes, project officials state that USD1 is 100% backed by the US dollar and each unit is convertible to 1 USD. In other words, in theory, its value is pegged to the dollar and secured by short-term treasury bonds. However, since independent audit reports have not been fully shared with the public so far, it is expected that all reserves will be audited.On which platforms is USD1 used?: Currently, USD1 can be traded on Ethereum and Binance Smart Chain (BSC). According to the announcement made at the Token2049 conference, it will also be integrated into the Justin Sun-backed Tron network. In addition, thanks to the Chainlink CCIP integration, USD1 has become transferable between multiple blockchains. In other words, it will be possible to keep USD1 in your wallet on different blockchains in the future.What kind of projects does World Liberty Financial carry out?: World Liberty Financial develops staking, lending and governance tools as a DeFi protocol and financial platform. It aims to provide crypto credit and savings services worldwide. It also launched a Trump-themed memecoin called $TRUMP and supported NFT projects. In short, it has established an ecosystem that includes the USD1 stablecoin, WLFI token and digital asset investments.Is there a difference between USD1 and stablecoins like USDT, USDC?: Functionally, USD1 is a stablecoin pegged to 1 USD, like USDT or USDC, but the support mechanism and infrastructure are different. The reserve structure of USD1, just like USDT/USDC, is held in US Treasury bonds. The difference is: USDT (Tether) and USDC (Circle) are stablecoins that have been in the market for a long time and are managed by different companies. USD1, on the other hand, is relatively new and is backed by an institutional custodian like BitGo. While USDC is subject to strict regulatory controls, USD1 claims to hold transparent reserves in a similar way. In short, they are all collateralized by dollars; the difference between them is how the reserves are managed, which companies issue them, and their legal infrastructure.Get to know the digital dollar and prepare for the future of finance — Follow our JR Kripto Guide series for more information on USD1 and World Liberty Financial.
·
30 Jun 2025
2.7 Billion Dollars Flowed into BTC and Altcoins: Institutions in Shopping Spree for 11 Weeks
According to CoinShares' latest weekly report, institutional interest in digital asset investment products continues to grow. During the week spanning June 21 to June 27, a total of $2.67 billion in net inflows were recorded for these products. This marks the 11th consecutive week of inflows. The total inflow for the first half of the year reached $17.8 billion, coming very close to the same period last year.The report notes that this strong performance is driven by macro factors such as geopolitical uncertainties and the lack of clarity regarding central banks' monetary policies. In particular, the massive inflow of 2.65 billion dollars from the US stands out, accounting for nearly the entire weekly total. While inflows of $19.8 million and $23 million were recorded from countries such as Germany and Switzerland, respectively, small outflows were observed in markets such as Canada (-$13.6 million), Hong Kong (-$2.3 million), and Brazil (-$2.4 million).Bitcoin and Ethereum are the focus of investments83% of the weekly total inflows were directed toward Bitcoin (BTC). There was an inflow of $2.224 billion into BTC investment products alone, reaching $14.9 billion in the first half of the year. In contrast, there was an outflow of $2.9 million from “Short Bitcoin” products that invest in Bitcoin's decline, reaching a total outflow of $12 million since the beginning of the year. This indicates a generally positive mood in the market.Ethereum (ETH) ranked second with a weekly inflow of $429.1 million. Total inflows into ETH products since the beginning of the year have reached $2.86 billion. Altcoin front is mixedThere is no clear trend on the altcoin front. XRP stood out with a weekly inflow of $10.6 million and a monthly inflow of $21.2 million, attracting a total of $219 million in investments since the beginning of the year. Sui (SUI) was another altcoin that attracted attention with a weekly inflow of $1.4 million and a total inflow of $104 million throughout the year.Solana (SOL) closed the week with $5.3 million in inflows, but total investment for the year remained at $91 million. Chainlink (LINK) contributed $0.8 million to investment products, while Cardano (ADA) contributed $0.7 million.However, outflows were observed in some altcoins and product groups. A monthly outflow of $17.3 million from multi-asset funds was notable. Similarly, Litecoin (LTC) products ended the week with zero flows, while only receiving $5 million in inflows for the year. Despite a $1.7 million inflow this week from products in the “other” category, there was a total outflow of $508 million for the year.Institutional demand continuesAnother notable data point in the report was provider-based flows. iShares/USA maintained its leadership with a massive weekly inflow of 1.544 billion dollars and a total of 17 billion dollars for the year. Grayscale, on the other hand, saw a weekly outflow of 5 million dollars and has experienced a total investment loss of 1.65 billion dollars since the beginning of the year. CoinShares XBT Provider also saw an outflow of $17 million this week and $269 million year-to-date.In short, institutional investors' interest in crypto assets is concentrated particularly on Bitcoin and Ethereum. In altcoins, investors are cautious, but there is selective interest in some projects.
·
30 Jun 2025
What is Monero (XMR)?
Privacy and anonymity are increasingly important concepts in the cryptocurrency world. While transactions on blockchains like Bitcoin are transparent and can be tracked by everyone, Monero stands out with its privacy-focused structure. Monero (XMR) provides privacy by cryptographically storing both the sender, recipient, and transaction amount in transactions on the blockchain. In other words, in a payment you make with Monero, the recipient and your address, as well as the amount of XMR sent, cannot be known from the outside. In this respect, Monero is also called a privacy coin (anonymous cryptocurrency). All transactions on the network are necessarily private; there is no way to accidentally send a transparent transaction. This feature makes Monero attractive to users looking for anonymity and investors who care about privacy. In order to understand Monero, it is very important to understand its underlying structure and where it comes from. In this guide, we will examine in detail what Monero is, its technical foundations, its development, and why it is valuable. If you are looking for answers to your questions about Monero, care about anonymity and security, or are an XMR investor, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview. You will also be able to find answers to questions such as “What is Monero?”, “How does Monero work?”, “What are Monero’s features?”Monero’s Definition and OriginsMonero (XMR) is an open-source, privacy-focused, anonymous cryptocurrency launched in April 2014. The project is based on a CryptoNote article published in 2013 by a person named Nicolas van Saberhagen. The protocol proposed in this article was aimed at making transactions anonymous and untraceable. Monero’s core developers took a fork from the Bytecoin codebase to implement this idea. Initially, this new cryptocurrency was called “BitMonero”; after the “Bit” was removed, the project took the name “Monero”. Monero means “coin” in Esperanto, an artificial language developed by Polish ophthalmologist Ludwik Lejzer Zamenhof in 1887.So, what is XMR coin? Monero is defined as: “Monero is the leading cryptocurrency focused on privacy and censorship-resistant transactions.” It was born on April 18, 2014, by forking the code of Bytecoin. Completely open-source, Monero is built on the CryptoNote protocol. Unlike transparent blockchains, the Monero blockchain uses an obfuscated public ledger. This means that anyone can publish and verify new transactions, but no outside observer can see the source, destination, or amount. In short, transactions made with Monero are opaque; the details of the transactions are hidden by cryptographic methods. Funds sent in Monero are transferred to a one-time stealth address that can only be detected by the recipient’s private view key, not the recipient’s public address. Source: Akash Kandpal/Medium Monero works as a functional digital currency while preserving the privacy of the currency. Miners mine new Monero units, verify transactions, and ensure network security. In addition, the block size and transaction fees in Monero are dynamically adjusted. In other words, the block size can grow or shrink depending on the density in the network. Unlike Bitcoin, Monero offers a coin that is strictly based on the fungibility principle and is not affected by transaction history and cannot be distinguished from each other. In short, Monero is a decentralized, secure, private, and untraceable cryptocurrency.Monero's History: Major MilestonesThe point Monero has reached today is based not only on its technical features, but also on the evolutionary process it has gone through over the years. This project, which was initially an idea put forward by a small and anonymous developer community, has taken important steps in the field of privacy technologies over time and has become a pioneer in the sector. With software updates, protocol improvements, and radical changes in the mining algorithm, Monero has become a project that redefines the standards of privacy-focused cryptocurrencies. Now, let's take a look at these technical and community-driven developments that left their mark on Monero's history.2013: Anonymous software developer "Nicolas van Saberhagen" published an article called CryptoNote. This article proposed ring signatures and other anonymity techniques as a solution to Bitcoin's traceability problem. This idea later became the basis of Monero.2014 (April): An anonymous developer known by the username "thankful_for_today" forked the Bytecoin code to create BitMonero. Later, the "Bit" suffix was removed and the coin began to be called "Monero". Monero's mainnet was launched on this date. Financial privacy was at the forefront when Monero's foundations were being laid.2016 (June): Monero was updated with an update that included ring signatures, stealth addresses, and ring confidential transactions (RingCT). This also allowed transaction amounts to be hidden. With RingCT, transaction amounts were taken behind the scenes and offered as an option for transparency.2017 (January): RingCT functionality was implemented in block #1220516 and was made mandatory for all transactions on the Monero network as of September 2017. This meant that no Monero transaction made after 2017 could be sent without the amount information; the amounts were cryptographically obfuscated for each transaction. This step guaranteed default privacy by distinguishing Monero from other anonymous tokens (such as Zcash).2018 (October): A major software update called “Beryllium Bullet” was in act. This hard fork significantly reduced the size and fee of transactions using a new protocol called Bulletproofs. The same update also increased the Proof-of-Work (PoW) algorithm to CryptoNightV2 and the number of ring signatures to a uniform 11. Bulletproofs reduced the size of RingCT by introducing a zero-knowledge proof (range proof) system for numerical values. This made Monero transactions faster and cheaper.2019 (November): Monero switched to a new ASIC-resistant Proof-of-Work algorithm called RandomX. RandomX was designed to work efficiently with general-purpose CPUs instead of specially designed mining devices (ASICs). This made mining possible on anyone’s computer again, and prevented miner centralization in the network. As of 2019, Monero uses a CPU/GPU-friendly Proof-of-Work that is ASIC-free.2022 (May): Monero’s inflation plan began with “Tail Emission” (permanent block reward). After the first approximately 18.4 million XMR were mined, it was decided to give a fixed reward of 0.6 XMR for each block. In other words, the mining reward in Monero will never drop to zero; new XMR will continue to be created to secure the network. This approach aims to protect the security of the network by motivating miners even if the fees to be earned from transactions are very low.2022-2024: Monero became more accessible to both individual users and the developer community. During this period, with the widespread use and advanced support of wallet applications such as Cake Wallet, Monerujo, Feather Wallet, XMR began to offer a more user-friendly experience on mobile and desktop devices. In particular, Feather Wallet's advanced privacy controls and Tor integration allowed users to take serious steps to keep their online footprint to a minimum.2024: On the other hand, the regulatory pressure from states and regulatory bodies on crypto increased. There were developments such as various regulatory pressures in the US, the European Union's tendency to exclude privacy coins with developments such as MiCA (regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies), and some exchanges delisting Monero. Binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange by daily trading volume, removed Monero from its platform in February 2024.Today: Although Monero is not loved by governments and various institutions, it continues to be on the radar of many individual investors. Because it is a constantly developing project. The project's Research and Engineering community (Monero Research Lab) is working on new privacy protocols. In 2024, the v0.18 "Hydrogen Helix" version brought speed up Bulletproofs and additional privacy tools. The latest Fluorine Fermi (v0.18.4.0) version was released in April 2025. This update made improvements to network security and performance. As of May 2025, XMR's market value is around $6.35 billion and its circulating supply is around 18.44 million. However, the supply increases over time with additional XMR rewards for each block. Monero's development process has made it a leading player among privacy coins.Why is Monero Valuable?Another issue that is as important as Monero's technical foundations and historical development is the value of this project. Where does Monero's value come from? Monero is unique in the cryptocurrency world not only with its history but also with the features it offers. Especially in an era where privacy has decreased in the digital world and user data can be easily tracked and stored, the anonymity and censorship resistance offered by Monero has become an attractive alternative for both individual users and institutional investors. At this point, in order to better understand why Monero attracts so much attention and to answer the question of what XMR is for; it is necessary to examine the technical and economic elements that make it stand out:Full privacy and anonymity: Monero's most prominent feature is transaction privacy. In every transaction, the sender address, recipient address and amount are stored cryptographically. This puts Monero in the anonymous cryptocurrency category. Whether you send a donation somewhere or buy goods, no one can see who you are sending from and how much money you are sending. Ring signatures, RingCT and stealth addresses provide this. In short, transactions made with Monero are like an end-to-end encrypted message sent to your mobile phone; Only the sender and receiver share the information they need, so your financial privacy is protected. Monero uses three technologies for privacy: Ring signatures, confidential transactions, and stealth addresses. Source: Digital Asset Research Fungibility: Monero does not have a “taint” problem in transactions. Because it is impossible to track XMRs used in any transaction in the past, no XMR can be distinguished from another. This means that the money is fungible. For example, a Bitcoin can sometimes be blacklisted depending on its transaction history. There is no such risk in Monero; every XMR is considered equivalent. As a result, Monero is a currency that is always more likely to be accepted and resists censorship. This feature is an important value for investors and sellers.Security and decentralization: Unlike Bitcoin, Monero uses the ASIC-resistant RandomX algorithm. This prevents huge mining farms that could create a mining monopoly. Anyone can mine Monero with the CPU or GPU on their computer, which helps keep the network decentralized. The network remains secure thanks to advanced cryptography and an active developer community.Dynamic scalability: In Monero, the block size is not fixed; it can increase and decrease dynamically according to demand. During peak hours, blocks grow larger to accommodate more transactions, and shrink when needed. This allows the network to naturally scale. Monero’s flexibility allows transactions to continue even against large data attacks. Moreover, transaction fees are adjusted according to block occupancy. These features make Monero suitable for both high-volume payments and small anonymous payments.Active community and continuous development: Monero is supported by a strong community of independent developers rather than traditional exchanges and institutions. Thousands of developers from around the world have contributed to the project since its inception. Organizations such as the Monero Research Lab work on new privacy protocols, which keeps it up-to-date and increases reliability in the future. Thanks to the volunteer efforts of the community, Monero remains resistant to hacker attacks and censorship.Together, these features make Monero a valuable asset for individuals looking to make anonymous transactions and investors seeking privacy. From a market perspective, XMR’s long-term appeal comes from its limited supply (approximately 18.4 million coins and a permanent block reward) and the increasing demand for privacy. Unlike many other privacy coins (Zcash, Dash, etc.), privacy is default and mandatory in Monero, which some consider to be the most trusted privacy coin.Who are the Developers of Monero?Since its launch, Monero’s development has been carried out by a community of independent and anonymous developers rather than a central institution. However, a few key figures who made significant contributions to its establishment and after can be listed as follows:Nicolas van Saberhagen: The person who came up with the basic ideas behind Monero is an anonymous writer using the pseudonym “Nicolas van Saberhagen”. In his manifesto called CryptoNote, which he published in 2013, he proposed hiding transactions with methods such as signatures and single-use addresses against Bitcoin’s traceability problem. This document became the technical inspiration not only for Monero but also for many privacy-focused coins. Although he did not directly contribute to the Monero code, Monero would not have been possible without this theoretical background from Saberhagen. In this respect, he is considered the mastermind behind the project.“thankful_for_today”: The original ideas behind Monero emerged around the time of the fork from Bytecoin to create BitMonero. The developer who initiated this version, nicknamed “thankful_for_today,” has kept his identity secret. This anonymous person, who implemented the suggestions in Van Saberhagen’s CryptoNote article, laid the foundation for Monero. Riccardo Spagni at the North American Bitcoin Conference. Riccardo “fluffypony” Spagni: South African software developer Riccardo Spagni has long been one of the most prominent figures in Monero. Known by his nickname “fluffypony,” Spagni joined the project in 2014 and was Monero’s lead developer until December 2019. During this time, he organized the community and contributed to many technical papers. Although he stepped down from his active leadership role in 2019, the Monero community appreciates Spagni’s contributions.Monero community and research lab: The Monero core team generally prefers to remain anonymous. Many core developers hide their true identities. For example, there are developers known by their code names such as “Smooth”, “BinaryFate”, “SerHack”, “Howard”, “Luigi”, “ArticMine”. In total, Monero is the third largest developer community after Bitcoin and Ethereum. Groups such as the Monero Research Lab (MRL) provide new technologies with financially supported research. As of 2025, the number of people contributing to Monero is in the hundreds.Other contributors: Many different volunteer software developers have contributed to Monero’s code base over time. These people are usually active in the crypto community and privacy-oriented software developers. For example, Cristian “selenious” Hiesa, ArticMine (Francisco Cabañas), smooth, etc. have brought innovations to Monero features. Many developers do not like to make official statements, but their contributions can be seen on GitHub.In short, Monero was not developed by any company. The project is based on the collective labor of volunteer developers. The ideas for Monero originated from anonymous people and spread around the world. If you ask who developed Monero, the answer will be “anyone who wants privacy”.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)Finally, in this section of our article, we have compiled frequently asked questions and answers about Monero.How does Monero provide privacy?: Monero uses three basic technologies together to provide privacy in transactions. First of all, Ring Signatures attract attention. These make it impossible to determine which transaction is real by mixing the transaction with the transactions of other users to hide the identity of the sender. Secondly, there are Stealth Addresses. In order to protect the identity of the recipient, unique and randomly generated addresses are used for each transaction. In this way, the real address of the recipient is hidden and the transactions cannot be linked. Finally, RingCT (Ring Confidential Transactions): It hides the transaction amounts and ensures that the amount sent is seen only by the relevant parties.Can XMR coin be tracked?: Monero's design makes it extremely difficult to track transactions and identify users. Although some companies and government agencies are trying to develop tools to track Monero transactions, no definitive and reliable method has been found so far. However, Monero's privacy features do not mean that transactions are completely untraceable. It is important for users to be careful and follow best privacy practices.What is the difference between Monero and Bitcoin?: Despite being cryptocurrencies, Monero and Bitcoin have significant differences in terms of privacy and transaction structure. Bitcoin transactions are public and traceable; anyone can see the transaction history of a wallet address. Monero, on the other hand, offers privacy by default; sender, recipient and transaction amount information is hidden. Bitcoin's transparent structure makes it easy to track transactions. Monero's privacy features make it extremely difficult to track transactions. While Bitcoin mining usually requires special hardware (ASIC), Monero's ASIC-resistant structure allows mining with standard computers (CPU/GPU).Is Monero legal, in which areas is it used?: The legal status of Monero varies by country. While it can be used legally in many countries, there are restrictions or bans in some countries due to its privacy features. Monero is especially preferred by users who care about privacy. It is used in areas such as online shopping, donations and private payments. However, it is also known to be used in some illegal activities due to its privacy features.Is mining decentralized?: Yes, Monero mining is decentralized. Monero is designed to be resistant to ASIC mining, which allows anyone to mine with standard computer hardware (CPU/GPU). This feature prevents mining from being controlled by large mining pools and makes the network more fair and decentralized.Continue to explore projects like Monero in our JR Kripto Guide series to discover privacy-focused financial freedom.
·
30 Jun 2025
EIGEN Comments and Price Analysis 29 June 2025
EIGEN Technical AnalysisThe EIGEN chart clearly demonstrates a downward breakout following the consolidation in the upper region. There is a descending trend pattern forming in the short term, and we see that there has not been a strong breakout in this trend yet; the price has been rejected from this area again. Looking from a wide perspective, the price has rebounded and risen from the strong support area of $1.00 - $1.04 twice so far. In case of price closings below this support zone, the level of $0.89 might be possible then.On the other hand, if we see a breakout, $1.15 will be the first target, and then the price may want to test the resistance area of $1.28 - $1.33. The next possible test of the trend could bring a breakout.These analyses, not offering any kind of investment advice, focus on support and resistance levels considered to offer trading opportunities in the short and medium term according to the market conditions. However, the user is responsible for their own actions and risk management. Moreover, it is highly recommended to use stop loss (SL) during the transactions.
·
29 Jun 2025
OP Comment and Price Analysis 30 June 2025
Optimism (OP) Technical Analysis: In Major Liquidity Zone Following Head & Shoulders Formation32.21 million Optimism (OP) tokens, approximately 1.84% of the market cap value amounting to $17.72M, will be unlocked on June 30, 2025 at 03:00 UTC. Therefore, we should be careful about the price and the levels before the unlocking. Let’s study the chart together. OBO Formation As clearly seen on the daily chart, Optimism (OP) has been in a downtrend since the $6.00 peak and is at the end of a critical technical formation called Head and Shoulders, which has caused a selling pressure with the breakdown of the neckline of the formation. The price is trading at the level of $0.55 now and has rebounded from the $0.46 - $0.38 area, marked as the "Major Liquidity Zone" on the chart.If the price can hold, the first important price level will be the resistance at $0.665 in upward movement. If the price can go above this resistance, then the other resistance zones $0.90 - $1.00 and $1.22 - $1.36 can be tested. However, what we need is a breakout of these areas, then a retest.On the other hand, we can expect the Major Liquidity Zone to work as support once again and perhaps complete the double bottom formation if the price drops to the level of $0.46. Selling pressure may increase further if the price closes below $0.46; what is more, pricing at $0.38 and below may cause a longer-term descending trend.These analyses, not offering any kind of investment advice, focus on support and resistance levels considered to offer trading opportunities in the short and medium term according to the market conditions. However, the user is responsible for their own actions and risk management. Moreover, it is highly recommended to use stop loss (SL) during the transactions.
·
29 Jun 2025
CRV Yorum ve Fiyat Analizi 28 June 2025
CRV Technical AnalysisLooking at the CRV chart, we see a descending channel pattern similar to what we observe in most of the market nowadays. The price of the coin has managed to maintain this pattern with regular tests to the lower and upper borders after re-entering the channel, even though the pattern was violated once last month. Falling Channel Formation It is obvious on the chart that the price level of $0.51 - $0.53 appears to be an important area, yet the price has fallen below this zone. If CRV tests and can hold above this level, we can expect the price to further test the upper trend zone, which is around $0.56. Otherwise, we may see a test to the lower border of the descending channel if the price cannot hold above the resistance zone it is in now. We have $0.46 as the horizontal support level.In short, the possibility of a breakout is technically high if the price breaks out above the resistance and tests the upper border of the channel. If such a breakout occurs, the resistance area of $0.64 - $0.66 will be the main target in the short term.These analyses, not offering any kind of investment advice, focus on support and resistance levels considered to offer trading opportunities in the short and medium term according to the market conditions. However, the user is responsible for their own actions and risk management. Moreover, it is highly recommended to use stop loss (SL) during the transactions.
·
28 Jun 2025
ETC Comments and Price Analysis 28 June 2025
ETC Technical AnalysisETC (Ethereum Classic) is printing a widening descending channel formation on its chart, and it is safe to say that it is, for the time being, consolidating in the middle border of the channel while moving parallel to the market. Falling Channel Structure The price level of $15 seems to act as a significant support area, and it is clear that the price tested this support and rebounded from here due to strong buying activity. ETC is currently trading just below the resistance level of $16.33, which can be considered as a decision point.The price might rapidly rise to the $17.70 target if it sees a daily closing above this resistance level of $16.33, meaning that the channel will see an upward break.However, if the price cannot break above the resistance, then it can pull back to the level of $15 again and even fall below it to test the channel lower trend support.We have the level $17 remaining our target in the short term unless we see a daily closing below the level of $14.These analyses, not offering any kind of investment advice, focus on support and resistance levels considered to offer trading opportunities in the short and medium term according to the market conditions. However, the user is responsible for their own actions and risk management. Moreover, it is highly recommended to use stop loss (SL) during the transactions.
·
28 Jun 2025
RENDER Comments and Price Analysis 28 June 2025
RENDER Technical AnalysisLooking at the RENDER chart, it is obvious that the pattern is similar to the one we see on the ETC chart, namely a widening falling channel formation. We should draw attention to the support area of $2.83 - $3.13 in the horizontal support zones. The price of the coin, as obvious in the chart, quickly recovered after falling below this support zone and is currently trading above it. We are very close to the upper border of the channel for the time being. Falling Channel Structure If we see a breakout above the support level, then the first main target will be $5.52 - $6.10, and below it we have a resistance level of $4.15 in the intermediate zone. The critical zone of $2.83 - $3.13 can play an important role in case the price pulls back after the trend test. The price might go down to the lower border of the channel, $2.40, if there come price closings below this area.Will RENDER break out of the trend or pull back after the trend test is yet to be seen. The price will confirm its direction in the short term according to the scenario we lay out above.These analyses, not offering any kind of investment advice, focus on support and resistance levels considered to offer trading opportunities in the short and medium term according to the market conditions. However, the user is responsible for their own actions and risk management. Moreover, it is highly recommended to use stop loss (SL) during the transactions.
·
28 Jun 2025