14th August 2023

This week in the cryptocurrency market, Bitcoin and Ethereum experienced slight price increases after PayPal's announcement of an Ethereum-based stablecoin. The Federal Reserve's note on stablecoins indicated a potential shift in Washington's stance towards crypto. Bitcoin gained 1.5% to reach $29,408, while Ethereum rose by 1.3% to $1,851. Notable altcoin gains included Solana (SOL) with 8.5% growth to $24.55, Toncoin (TON) up 10.1% to $1.32, and Shiba Inu (SHIB) surging 17.8% to $0.00001108.

Shiba Inu's rally continued due to its developers' efforts to enhance security and privacy through a new identity protocol. The overall market saw modest gains amid signs of reduced inflation. The week was eventful, featuring PayPal's introduction of an Ethereum-based stablecoin named PayPal USD (PYUSD) and the concerns expressed by Congresswoman Maxine Waters regarding stablecoin regulation.

Brazil introduced its central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital real (DREX), which raised controversy due to its centralized features conflicting with crypto's principles. Binance obtained licenses to operate in El Salvador, where Bitcoin is legal tender, despite facing scrutiny from the SEC in the U.S. The Federal Reserve outlined guidance for banks dealing with dollar-pegged stablecoins and increased supervision for crypto-related activities.

The SEC's appeal of a ruling in the Ripple lawsuit, Judge Torres's decision on XRP's status as a security, and the delay of a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund decision from ARK 21Shares marked regulatory developments. Lastly, Visa introduced an Ethereum blockchain solution enabling users to pay gas fees using Visa cards.

In other news Microsoft, Aptos Labs team up on new Blockchain AI tools, Binance has achieved full licensure as a cryptocurrency exchange in El Salvador and Japanese startup to use stablecoins and CBDC to link Asian countries. Russia to test digital ruble with banks, clients. Russia's central bank revealed plans to expand its digital ruble pilot with 13 banks initiating real-world trials next week, Nvidia teases new hardware, software, and services for AI and Canada to develop repository for storing crypto and NFT seizures. UAE to develop national system for carbon credits using blockchain, Big four accounting firm discusses ESG benefits of Bitcoin and dispels misconceptions and Tech firm Finboot calls on companies to tighten ESG reporting with blockchain.?

In the News:?

Coinbase layer-2 chain base taps Chainlink ahead of mainnet launch. The base has incorporated Chainlink's price feeds to streamline the process of integrating well-known DeFi applications onto the latest blockchain. Decrypt?

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Cube3.AI secures $8.2M to launch an AI-powered Blockchain security app. With CUBE3's Protect software, those deploying smart contracts can address cyber attacks and vulnerabilities without the need to halt their protocols. Decrypt?

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Coinbase Ethereum L2 launches mainnet with $142M already on its network. The company has stated that it currently has no intentions of introducing a native token on Base. Instead, its focus will be on providing support to developers native to the network. Decrypt?

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Microsoft, Aptos Labs team up on new Blockchain AI tools. Following the announcement, the Aptos token (APT) experienced a substantial increase of approximately 15%, reaching a value of $7.70. Coindesk??

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BNB Chain hard fork to improve security and compatibility with EVM chains. Two upgrades are on the horizon for Binance's BNB Chain, with the goal of enhancing network finality and bolstering compatibility with other EVM blockchains. Cointelegraph?

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Crypto brokerage Blockchain.com receives an institution license from Singapore. Last year, the Monetary Authority of Singapore granted the company an in-principle approval. Coindesk?

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ChatGPT and Claude are ‘becoming capable of tackling real-world missions,’ say scientists. The researchers created a tool named "AgentBench" for the purpose of benchmarking LLM models functioning as agents. Cointelegraph?

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Binance expands global reach — becomes a fully licensed Crypto Exchange in El Salvador. Having secured both a Bitcoin Services Provider license (BSP) and a Digital Assets Services Provider license (DASP), Binance has achieved full licensure as a cryptocurrency exchange in El Salvador. The company's global footprint now includes approvals and registrations in 18 markets across the globe. Bitcoin News??

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PayPal’s regulated stablecoin is a ‘Watershed Moment’ in crypto space, says partner Paxos. “The difference is significant because we have a prudential regulator,” Hessert said in an interview with CoinDesk. Coindesk??

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Japanese startups use stablecoins and CBDC to link Asian countries. Soramitsu, a blockchain startup from Japan, is in the process of creating a cross-border payment platform that leverages Cambodia's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and focuses on serving Japan, India, China, and the Southeast Asian region. Cointelegraph?

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G20 President India proposes ‘Action Points’ for implementing global crypto rules. The G20 Presidency held by India has presented suggestions for a pathway to establish a worldwide regulatory structure for cryptocurrency assets. India holds the view that achieving a harmonized approach will be essential for enforcing global norms in this domain and effectively reducing potential risks. Bitcoin News?

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Architectural AI is revolutionizing design. Predicting the ultimate outcomes might be a challenge, yet AI's permanence is undeniable, whether we embrace it or not. According to Leach, “Architects are like ostriches with their heads in the sand. What they need to design right now is not another building – but the future of their profession.” The Guradian?

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Russia to test digital ruble with banks, clients. Russia's central bank revealed plans to expand its digital ruble pilot with 13 banks initiating real-world trials next week. The Bank of Russia stated that the pilot's launch signifies a crucial phase, ensuring client convenience and usability. Coindesk??

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It's ChatGPT, but for Bitcoin: New AI Tool Avoids 'Hallucinations'. The new "ChatBTC," as described by the labs, exhibits reduced tendencies to provide inaccurate responses about the foundational blockchain compared to the widely-used and more general-purpose ChatGPT, which is also more prone to "hallucinations." Coindesk?

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Arte News:?

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From Square Enix to Ubisoft: The biggest publishers building NFT games. The creators responsible for major successes such as Final Fantasy, Assassin's Creed, Madden, and FIFA are actively involved in the NFT gaming arena. Decrypt??

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Nvidia teases new hardware, software, and services for AI. Nvidia unveiled a range of new offerings, including million-dollar superchips and high-performance gaming GPUs, all highly compatible with artificial intelligence applications. Decrypt?

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Singapore commits $112M to support fintech solutions like Web3. The central bank of Singapore acknowledged the significance of collaborating with industry participants to endorse solutions stemming from emerging technologies such as Web3. Cointelegraph?

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Leonardo's $450m Salvator Mundi returns as an NFT. Digital representations of iconic artworks such as the Mona Lisa and Van Gogh's Starry Night have also been introduced as digital assets. The Art Newspaper?

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DeGods sales leap as artwork evolution is unveiled. DeGods' trading volume surged 197% to 1,359 ETH ($2.5 million) on OpenSea in 24 hours. Despite a floor price dip, the $13,600 NFT purchase indicates NFT market optimism. DeGods revealed plans for "Season III," adding 20,000 artworks and enabling trait swaps. Coindesk??

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Canada to develop a repository for storing crypto and NFT seizures. The RCMP seeks a digital asset solution for cryptocurrency and NFT seizure and storage. A tender's open for a user-friendly repository, accommodating top 20 cryptocurrencies, Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon NFTs. Security measures, Chainalysis software, and a mobile app will aid enforcement. Cointelegraph??

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Roblox is tapping AI to generate 'More Rich and Dynamic' games: CEO. Roblox CEO David Baszucki envisions enhanced gaming via generative AI. During Q2 2023 earnings call, Baszucki stated Roblox would enter an era where avatars and clothing could be crafted entirely through text prompts. Players would create using AI tools, granting diverse experiences and boosting 3D creation. Decrypt??

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Crypto gaming investments surged in July as Metaverse NFTs fizzled out. Last month, the crypto gaming industry secured a significant investment of $297 million, a remarkable increase from June's $68 million. Infrastructure development claimed 63% of July's funding, indicating the industry's early stage. Notable July investments include Animoca Brands, Inworld AI, Valhalla Ventures, and Futureverse.? Decrypt??

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Famous pop stars and their views on Music AI, from Grimes to Drake. Around 60% of recording artists have already employed AI technology in the creative process of their works. Decrypt??

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Borderless art comes to life with Superchief's network of NFT Galleries.? The individual who established Superchief Gallery is dedicated to establishing a network of 50 physical NFT galleries worldwide. Leading the way is IHAM Gallery, the inaugural native NFT Gallery in Europe, situated in Paris. Decrypt??

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Grimes, who once banked $5.8 million in 20 minutes by selling crypto art, says she's made more from NFTs than from her entire music career. Recently, the artist proposed a revenue-sharing arrangement with individuals who utilize AI to create songs using her voice. Insider?

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‘The Next Crypto Gem’ TV show aims to be ‘The Apprentice’ for Crypto. A fusion of "The Apprentice" and "Shark Tank," "The Next Crypto Gem" is a fresh reality competition featuring 16 crypto enthusiasts vying for a lucrative $150,000 prize. The show seeks to bring crypto to mainstream audiences through challenges that educate and entertain, premiering on Sept. 7. Coindesk?

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How Decentraland is using AI to make the Metaverse feel more alive. Decentraland is infusing life into its Ethereum-based metaverse by partnering with AI startup Inworld to introduce AI-powered non-player characters (NPCs). These NPCs, including Simone the Robot, Doge, and Aisha, engage users with varied personalities and languages, enhancing immersion. Decrypt??

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Neopets: From NFT Experimentation to Mobile Revival. As Neopets delved into NFTs, the CEO of the company subtly suggests the possibility of incorporating blockchain technology down the line to elevate the user experience. Decrypt?

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You can try on Copenhagen Fashion Week's latest styles in the Metaverse. Copenhagen Fashion Week joins forces with theDrest mobile game, inviting users to style avatars and engage in daily fashion challenges. The collaboration highlights Nordic brands and aims to expand into a metaverse-enabled version with social interactions. Decrypt?

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The Green Block News:?

UAE to develop a national system for carbon credits using blockchain. The goal of this partnership is to decrease emissions and promote sustainable agriculture, while also improving environmental well-being and biodiversity within the UAE. Gulf Business?

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The AI boom will drive tripled demand for renewable energy, predicts industry CEO. Brookfield Renewable is in a strong position to fulfill the increasing need for renewable energy propelled by the rise of AI and the proactive efforts of profit-driven companies at the forefront. Energy Portal?

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Why IMPT’s vision is more powerful and extensive than Solar (SXP) in the Blockchain sustainability market? Blockchain's potential extends beyond DeFi and NFTs. Solar Blockchain (SXP) focuses on green vision but faces limited scope, while IMPT offers carbon credits, loyalty platforms, and global sustainability actions, with projected growth and media attention. Bitcoinist?

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Harnessing the power of blockchain technology in transforming food supply chains for a sustainable future. Blockchain transforms food supply chains by ensuring transparency, traceability, and trust. It secures product origins, tracks ingredients efficiently, advances sustainability, and reshapes the industry for a transparent, efficient, and sustainable future. Blockzeit??

Tech firm Finboot calls on companies to tighten ESG reporting with blockchain. Global regulations tighten for ESG reporting, net zero, and circularity. Blockchain offers secure, transparent, and verifiable data solutions to meet regulatory demands and combat greenwashing, aiding compliance and sustainability efforts. FF News??

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Costa Rica's Blockchain Jungle 2023: Merging sustainability with innovation. Costa Rica hosts groundbreaking "Blockchain Jungle 2023" conference, merging sustainability with blockchain technology. Over 30 global experts and local dignitaries aim to position Costa Rica as a pioneer in eco-conscious blockchain innovation, fostering lasting change and international recognition. EIN News??

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The green energy revolution: How microgrid trading platforms are driving change. Innovative technologies and novel strategies for energy production and distribution are propelling the green energy revolution. Leading this transformation are microgrid trading platforms, which play a pivotal role. These platforms spearhead the shift by enabling P2P energy trading and promoting the utilization of renewable energy sources. Through these means, they actively contribute to the development of a future energy system that is not only more sustainable and efficient but also remarkably resilient. Energy Portal?

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Energy management meets AI: A synergy for cutting-edge research design. The potential for significant innovation in research design and the creation of a more sustainable and efficient energy landscape lies in the collaborative interplay of energy management and AI. Fagen Wassani?

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