Polygon taps into Manifold for institutional liquidity to DeFi ecosystem

A recent exchange on X between Polygon's CTO Mudit Gupta and Zcash founder Zooko Wilcox has reignited a longstanding debate about the integrity of Zcash's 21 million coin cap. The discussion centers on whether privacy-preserving shielded pools can be fully audited, raising important questions about trust in cryptocurrency design. This clash highlights ongoing concerns in the crypto community regarding privacy and transparency, making it a significant topic for investors and enthusiasts alike.

Mono Protocol has reached an exciting milestone by entering Stage 15, securing a $2.8 million raise, launching its Reward Hub, and completing a Smart Contract Audit. These developments are significant as they enhance the safety and connectivity of web3 and decentralized finance (DeFi) experiences, setting the stage for a more robust digital economy in 2025.

Excitement is in the air as institutional investors prepare for the launch of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to Solana, Litecoin, and Hedera on U.S. exchanges this week. This development is particularly noteworthy given the partial shutdown of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which adds an element of intrigue to the market. The introduction of these ETFs could signal a growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in mainstream finance, potentially attracting more investors and boosting the overall market.

XRP is currently at a pivotal resistance level, prompting traders to speculate whether a final dip will occur before a significant breakout. As it continues to fluctuate within a critical range, analysts from CasiTrades emphasize that this moment is crucial for determining the next steps for XRP. Understanding these movements is essential for investors looking to navigate the volatile cryptocurrency market.

Dr. Sangmin Seo, chair of the Kaia DLT Foundation, has criticized South Korea's current approach to stablecoins, suggesting that the Bank of Korea needs to establish clearer regulations for both banks and non-banks to issue these digital tokens. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the need for a more structured framework in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency landscape, which could impact the future of digital finance in the country.

Wisdomtree has partnered with BNY Mellon to enhance onchain banking through the use of tokenized assets. This collaboration is significant as it represents a step forward in integrating traditional finance with blockchain technology, potentially making financial services more accessible and efficient. By leveraging BNY Mellon's expertise, Wisdomtree aims to innovate the way assets are managed and traded, which could lead to a more streamlined financial ecosystem.

Bitcoin is currently facing a significant downturn, with its price dropping below $113,500 and struggling to break past the $114,200 resistance level. This decline is concerning for investors, as it indicates a potential continuation of the downward trend if the price remains below $112,000. Understanding these price movements is crucial for traders and enthusiasts alike, as they reflect broader market sentiments and can influence future investment decisions.

In today's Asia Morning Briefing, Bitcoin remains steady as traders opt to hold onto stablecoins ahead of the Federal Reserve's upcoming decision. This situation highlights the cautious approach many investors are taking in the current market, reflecting uncertainty about future monetary policy. The Fed's decisions can significantly impact cryptocurrency prices, making it crucial for traders to stay informed and prepared.