The Ethereum Foundation (EF) has quietly taken a tactical step into DeFi by borrowing $2 million in GHO stablecoins using wrapped ETH (wETH) as collateral on the Aave protocol.

Marc Zeller, founder of the Aavechan Initiative, shared the development on May 29, noting that the Foundation’s use of GHO aligns with Aave’s core value proposition, enabling ETH holders to unlock liquidity without exiting their positions.

He said:

“They didn’t have to sell a single ETH to fund their objectives. Aave is designed for holders with conviction.”

Stani Kulechov, founder of Aave Protocol, echoed this sentiment. He highlighted that the EF is supplying ETH and borrowing on Aave, calling it a demonstration of DeFi’s complete utility cycle.

The Ethereum Foundation has not officially commented on the transaction as of press time.

However, the crypto community has broadly supported the strategy, viewing it as a prudent approach to treasury management and long-term sustainability.

Maksym Blazhkun, the co-founder of WeNode, said:

“Borrowing without selling — that’s DeFi conviction in action. Ethereum Foundation playing it smart with Aave.”

According to DeFillama data, Aave is Ethereum’s dominant DeFi lending protocol, with over $43 billion in total value locked (TVL). GHO is Aave’s native overcollateralized stablecoin and currently has a circulating supply of $249 million.

According to blockchain analytics firm Token Terminal, active lending and GHO issuance are critical metrics that correlate directly with Aave DAO’s ability to generate revenue.

Ethereum Foundation’s revamp

Meanwhile, this loan move follows EF’s recent efforts to reshape its treasury strategy after extended community complaints.

Earlier this year, the Foundation deployed 50,000 ETH across multiple DeFi platforms. That included a February deposit of 30,800 ETH into Aave, split between its core market and Aave Prime. Additional allocations included 10,000 ETH to MakerDAO’s Spark and 4,200 ETH to Compound.

The borrowing reflects a strategic shift away from liquidating ETH to finance operations. Instead, EF is now tapping into DeFi lending to maintain its holdings while generating yield.

This approach also distances the Foundation from the criticism it faced in January, when it sold 300 ETH worth nearly $1 million.

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Cannes, the glitzy capital of film and French Riviera flair, is about to take on a new role: global crypto tourism hub.

The city announced plans to roll out crypto payment infrastructure across 90% of local merchants, thanks to a partnership with Web3 payment firm Lunu Pay.

By summer 2025, you might be able to grab a croissant, buy a bottle of champagne, or book a yacht – all using crypto.

What makes this different from previous ‘crypto city’ experiments – like El Salvador’s Bitcoin Beach or Miami’s Bitcoin-branded city campaigns – is the level of coordination. Cannes isn’t just slapping QR codes in cafes.

The municipality is actively training shop owners and laying down Web3 infrastructure. That’s a big deal, because it makes crypto payments truly accessible to regular people – not just hardcore HODLers.

And when crypto becomes this real, certain projects stand to benefit more than others. Let’s look at some of the best altcoins riding this wave of mainstream adoption.

1. Best Wallet Token ($BEST) – Powering the Next Generation of Crypto Payments

As crypto payments go mainstream in cities like Cannes, one thing becomes clear: the wallet you use – and the token behind it – matters more than ever. That’s where Best Wallet Token ($BEST) steps in.

Priced at $0.02495 and with nearly $12M already raised in its presale, $BEST isn’t just another utility token. It’s the backbone of a radically modern, user-first crypto experience.

Best Wallet is positioning itself as the next evolution of Web3 wallets, outpacing clunky tools like MetaMask with a sleek, app-style interface, smarter security, and a host of exclusive features.

But it’s the $BEST token that unlocks the real perks.

Buying and holding $BEST gives users serious advantages. We’re talking reduced transaction fees, early access to hot new crypto projects, and even bonus rewards through Best Wallet’s iGaming partnerships.

That’s a far cry from tokens that just sit in your wallet looking pretty.

$BEST holders also gain access to ‘Upcoming Tokens,’ a built-in launchpad tool. It allows users to discover, vet, and invest in new tokens directly in-app – without hopping through shady mirror sites.

In short, $BEST isn’t just a token. It’s your all-access pass to the future of crypto payments, investments, and perks – all in your pocket.

2. SUBBD Token ($SUBBD) – The Future of Content Monetization Is AI-Powered and Instant

The way we pay for content is about to change forever – and SUBBD Token ($SUBBD) is leading the charge.

Built for the next generation of fans and digital platforms, $SUBBD is reimagining the $85B content subscription industry by blending AI, crypto, and premium fan experiences into one seamless ecosystem.

Currently priced at $0.0553, with over $300K raised in presale, $SUBBD powers an AI-driven content platform where users can subscribe, tip, and interact with creators using fast, low-fee crypto payments.

The platform offers tools like AI-generated photos and videos (approved by the original creators), a chatbot assistant for creators, and customizable staking perks.

Holding and staking $SUBBD unlocks exclusive content, early access to drops, and platform bonuses, all while earning up to 20% APY during presale.

Analysts predict the token could reach $0.301 by 2025, and possibly soar to $2.50 by 2030, making it one of the most promising projects in the content and AI space.

With $SUBBD, fans get more value, creators earn more directly, and the token at the center gets real-world utility.

3. Litecoin ($LTC) – The OG That Still Gets the Job Done

In a world of flashy new tokens and headline-chasing meme coins, Litecoin ($LTC) continues to quietly do what it does best – enable fast, cheap, and reliable payments.

Launched in 2011, it’s one of the oldest cryptocurrencies still thriving, and for good reason.

At a current price of $86.74, $LTC is more than just a legacy coin – it’s a practical, well-oiled machine built for real-world use.

It processes transactions four times faster than Bitcoin and with much lower fees, making it ideal for everyday purchases, especially in retail-heavy environments like Cannes.

With crypto payment terminals going live across 90% of the city’s merchants, Litecoin’s battle-tested speed and cost-efficiency could make it a natural fit.

Already accepted in crypto-forward cities like Miami and Lugano, Litecoin’s consistent performance and broad integration across wallets and payment platforms give it a major head start.

As crypto adoption spreads through tourism and local commerce, $LTC may just be the quiet workhorse powering your next seaside espresso.

4. Toncoin ($TON) – Turning Telegram Into a Global Crypto Powerhouse

Toncoin ($TON) is the native cryptocurrency of The Open Network (TON), a high-speed, scalable layer-1 blockchain originally developed by Telegram.

After regulatory setbacks paused Telegram’s direct involvement, the project was revived by an independent community and is now gaining serious momentum.

Priced at $3.18, Toncoin powers a range of blockchain functions – from staking and governance to paying for transaction fees.

What sets $TON apart is its deep integration with Telegram’s massive user base of over 900M people.

Through this partnership, users can send $TON directly in chats, use built-in wallets, and access decentralized services without ever leaving the app. It’s frictionless, fast, and tailor-made for mass adoption.

As cities like Cannes build crypto into everyday life, Toncoin’s seamless messaging-app integration could be a game changer.

Tourists and locals alike could one day send crypto payments with the same ease as sending a text – something $TON is already making possible.

Real-World Crypto Is Here – And These Projects Are Ready

As Cannes paves the way for real-world crypto adoption, a new era of usability is taking shape.

Whether it’s paying for coffee with $LTC, unlocking premium features with $SUBBD, securing your assets and the best crypto presales through $BEST, or sending instant payments through Telegram with $TON, these projects are built for the kind of everyday crypto usage that’s finally becoming a reality.

As more cities follow Cannes’ lead, projects like these are poised to lead the charge.

Before you invest, always do your own research (DYOR), as this article is for informational purposes only and doesn’t constitute financial advice.

Editorial Process for bitcoinist is centered on delivering thoroughly researched, accurate, and unbiased content. We uphold strict sourcing standards, and each page undergoes diligent review by our team of top technology experts and seasoned editors. This process ensures the integrity, relevance, and value of our content for our readers.

In an exciting development for the art and tech community, SurR.Ai, a pioneering artist in the digital realm, has been granted early access to the HUG Artist Shop platform. This innovative tool is the brainchild of Debbie Soon and Randy Zuckerberg, co-founders of TheHug.xyz, designed to empower artists to transition from creators to successful entrepreneurs.

The HUG Artist Shop platform is an extension of the existing HUG Artist Profile, which has primarily served as a virtual showcase for artists’ works. With the introduction of the SHOP tab, SurR.Ai’s profile has transformed into a dynamic commercial hub. This feature enables artists like SurR.Ai to not only display their creations but also to sell a variety of products directly to their audience. At launch, the available products include Fine Art Prints, Onchain Collectibles, and Digital Downloads, with plans to expand these offerings in the near future.

SurR.Ai‘s innovative use of the HUG Artist Shop platform marks a significant step in merging art and technology, transforming their profile into a vibrant business hub. This strategic move allows them to offer a diverse range of products—from the ‘SurR: OrnaBase‘ on-chain collectibles and ‘SurR Skins‘ Luxury Blue Series digital downloads, to traditional fine art prints like ‘SurR: Portrait Study #44‘, ‘SurR: Ethereal Whisperer #8‘, and ‘SurR: Orbital Synchrony #2‘. These offerings not only showcase SurR.Ai‘s versatility but also cater to both digital and physical art collectors.

Expanding Creative Revenue Streams

The HUG Artist Shop platform stands out by providing artists with the tools necessary to diversify and grow their revenue streams effectively. For SurR.Ai, this opportunity means a significant enhancement in how they engage with fans and collectors. The platform allows them to sell high-quality fine art prints and innovative onchain collectibles, catering to both traditional art enthusiasts and the crypto-art community. Moreover, the inclusion of digital downloads offers a flexible option for consumers looking for more accessible art pieces.

Seamless Integration and User Experience

One of the key features of the HUG Artist Shop is its seamless integration. Artists can easily manage their sales and track orders without leaving the platform. This integration ensures that artists can focus more on their creative work while efficiently managing their entrepreneurial activities.

Future Enhancements and Community Engagement

The Hug.xyz team, under the guidance of Debbie Soon and Randy Zuckerberg, has promised that the platform will soon support additional product categories. This expansion will likely include unique art-related merchandise and more digital asset options, broadening the scope for artist engagement with different market segments.

SurR.Ai is currently accepting commissions. Interested in a custom piece? Send us a request to begin discussing your ideas today.

The HUG Artist Shop platform represents a significant leap forward in how artists like SurR.Ai can manage their careers and business endeavors. By providing a tool that combines artistic showcasing with commercial capabilities, TheHug.xyz is setting a new standard for artist entrepreneurship in the digital age. As SurR.Ai and other artists begin to explore the full potential of this platform, the art industry is poised to witness a remarkable transformation in how art is created, sold, and enjoyed.

If a price isn’t displayed, we’re open to hearing your offers.

SurR.Ai is a leader in ‘Phygital Art’, offering digital art as NFTs (leveraging blockchain technology) as well as physical formats such as fine art and video prints. Customers can buy NFTs from SurR.Ai and order corresponding physical versions, including fine art prints from VastPhotos.com or WhiteWall.com, and loop video prints from InfiniteObjects.com. SurR.Ai typically provides NFTs in medium resolution, but also offers the option to upgrade to Ultra High Resolution for high-definition quality prints, available through an artwork commission.

Read also: The Best Place to Find Rare and Unique Crypto Collectibles: Discover the World of NFTs with SurR.Ai’s Innovative News Aggregation.

Stay informed on the intersection of art, technology, & commerce in the rapidly evolving world of digital collectibles.

Digital crypto collectibles (NFTs) are reshaping the art world, offering a new platform for artists and a novel investment opportunity for collectors. Their significance extends beyond the digital realm, as they can be converted into tangible forms like high-resolution prints. This fusion of digital and physical art offers both a novel way for art enthusiasts to display their collections and a fresh investment avenue. The market for NFTs is rapidly growing, with their tangible versions adding an extra layer of value and investment potential.  As the market for these digital assets continues to grow, so too does the potential for investment and enjoyment of art in its many forms.

Now with the MoonPay checkout integration, OpenSea users can easily purchase an NFT using a debit or credit card, sidestepping the need to first acquire cryptocurrency.

MoonPay now supports the purchase of Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon NFTs with a debit or credit card. With this new feature, collectors can pay directly with major payment methods like MasterCard, Visa, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. This is a big step towards the goal of making NFTs accessible to everyone.

Get some SurR for Your NFT Collection!

A cool gift for every season & any occasion.

Just for fun or as an investment.

SurR.Ai, a cutting-edge startup that provides a convenient platform for buying a diverse range of surreal Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs). It offers a one-stop-shop solution for acquiring animated videos and still images as digital collectibles, available on popular marketplaces like OpenSea, Rarible, and Mintable

Behind every NFT is a Story.
Read them on NFTsurRPost.com and
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You can discover our unique content and access our blog directly at NFTSurRPost.com. Additionally, stay updated by following us on Twitter & Instagram.

NFTSurRPost.com publication serves as a platform for sharing backstories, news, and ideas that have inspired the creation of our digital collectibles. We want to give our readers a better understanding of the art and creativity that goes into each collectible, including the concepts and references that are incorporated into each one.

Stay ahead of the curve & embrace the dynamic evolution of business, technology, visual arts, and digital collectibles. Visit our NFT collections on OpenSea, Rarible & Mintable and stay tuned for new drops, sets, series, collections and special editions!