Crypto and Big Tech Behind Trump’s $300 Million White House Ballroom

President Donald Trump's recent pardon of Binance founder Changpeng 'CZ' Zhao has ignited significant backlash, particularly from Congresswoman who are outraged by the implications of clearing Zhao's federal conviction related to anti-money-laundering failures. This decision raises serious questions about accountability in the cryptocurrency industry and the message it sends regarding regulatory compliance. As Zhao had previously pleaded guilty and faced penalties, the pardon could undermine efforts to enforce financial regulations, making it a critical issue for lawmakers and the public alike.

Ripple has made headlines by being included in a list of major donors to a White House project, alongside other big tech firms. This recognition comes at a time when XRP is experiencing a notable rebound, showcasing its potential in the market. The involvement of Ripple in such initiatives highlights its growing influence and commitment to engaging with key stakeholders in the financial landscape, which could have positive implications for its future.

XRP is showing promising signs of a rally, potentially reaching between $3 and $3.45, thanks to strong technical support and Ripple's efforts to engage more institutional investors. This is significant as it reflects growing confidence in the cryptocurrency market and could attract more investors looking for opportunities.

Ripple has successfully completed its $1.25 billion acquisition of Hidden Road, now rebranded as Ripple Prime, marking a significant milestone as the first crypto company to operate a global, multi-asset prime broker. This strategic move is expected to enhance Ripple's capabilities and expand the use of XRP in innovative ways. President Monica Long expressed optimism about the future, indicating that exciting developments are on the horizon for the company and its stakeholders.

Private crypto and tech donors are funding a new 90,000-square-foot ballroom at the White House, a project championed by President Donald Trump. The estimated cost has risen to around $300 million, with the administration emphasizing that taxpayer money will not be used. This development highlights the increasing influence of private funding in political projects and raises questions about transparency and priorities in government spending.

This week in crypto has been eventful, starting with a 3% drop in Bitcoin's price and a broader downturn in the crypto market. However, the week took a turn with discussions around Changpeng Zhao's potential pardon and Donald Trump's influence on the news cycle. As the US stock market ended the week positively, these developments highlight the ongoing volatility and political dynamics affecting cryptocurrency, making it a crucial time for investors and enthusiasts alike.

JPMorgan is making waves in the financial world by allowing Bitcoin and Ether to be used as collateral for institutional clients, a move that signals a growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies on Wall Street. This development is significant as it not only enhances the legitimacy of digital assets but also opens new avenues for institutional investors to engage with the crypto market. As the landscape evolves, this could lead to increased investment and innovation in the sector.

Crypto.com is making headlines by applying for a national trust bank charter with the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. This significant step not only positions Crypto.com alongside other major players like Coinbase and Ripple Labs but also reflects the growing acceptance and integration of cryptocurrency into traditional banking systems. As more firms seek similar charters, it could pave the way for a more regulated and stable crypto environment, which is crucial for investor confidence and market growth.

President Donald Trump's recent pardon of Binance founder Changpeng 'CZ' Zhao has ignited significant backlash, particularly from Congresswoman who are outraged by the implications of clearing Zhao's federal conviction related to anti-money-laundering failures. This decision raises serious questions about accountability in the cryptocurrency industry and the message it sends regarding regulatory compliance. As Zhao had previously pleaded guilty and faced penalties, the pardon could undermine efforts to enforce financial regulations, making it a critical issue for lawmakers and the public alike.

Ledger's latest multisig app has received mixed reactions, with many praising its technological advancements while simultaneously expressing frustration over the newly introduced transaction fees. This backlash highlights the ongoing tension between innovation and cost in the cryptocurrency space, as users seek to balance enhanced features with affordability.

A US Representative has disclosed an exposure of up to $30,000 in Bitcoin, showcasing the increasing acceptance of cryptocurrency investments among lawmakers. This move could significantly influence regulatory perspectives on digital currencies, reflecting a shift in how government officials view and engage with emerging financial technologies.

Bitcoin has shown remarkable growth in 2025, climbing from $93,300 in January to an all-time high of $126,000 this month. This surge reflects strong confidence among long-term investors, despite some corrections along the way. However, recent price fluctuations in October have raised concerns about the sustainability of this upward trend. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for investors as they navigate the volatile cryptocurrency market.

The latest Q4 hashrate heatmap highlights significant growth in Bitcoin mining power from the US and China, showcasing their contributions to the overall zettahash capacity. This expansion is crucial as it not only reflects the increasing interest and investment in Bitcoin but also indicates a competitive landscape in the mining sector. As these two countries lead the charge, it could pave the way for more innovations and advancements in cryptocurrency technology, making it an exciting time for investors and enthusiasts alike.

The price of SOL is showing signs of recovery, approaching the significant resistance level of $200, thanks to a surge in inflows into the Staking Solana ETF. This uptick is important as it indicates growing investor confidence and interest in Solana, which could lead to further price increases and market stability.