Slams – Earlybirds Invest https://earlybirdsinvest.com Latest Crypto News Tue, 09 Sep 2025 20:57:07 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.7 https://i0.wp.com/earlybirdsinvest.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/cropped-New-Project-2024-12-17T235703.455.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Slams – Earlybirds Invest https://earlybirdsinvest.com 32 32 240146708 Samson Mow Slams Bitcoin Core Devs: Contempt for Users Threatens Network Future https://earlybirdsinvest.com/samson-mow-slams-bitcoin-core-devs-contempt-for-users-threatens-network-future/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/samson-mow-slams-bitcoin-core-devs-contempt-for-users-threatens-network-future/#respond Tue, 09 Sep 2025 20:57:06 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/samson-mow-slams-bitcoin-core-devs-contempt-for-users-threatens-network-future/

A dispute has emerged within the Bitcoin community, with Jan3 CEO Samson Mow accusing Bitcoin Core developers of treating users with disdain, and warning that such attitudes could jeopardize the network’s long-term success.

Mow stressed that no project can succeed if its builders look down on the people they are meant to serve.

Mow’s Indictment of Developer Conduct

In a lengthy post published on X, the BTC advocate argued that Bitcoin’s core issue is not merely technical but deeply cultural. He asserted that a toxic attitude among some developers is poisoning the ecosystem.

“You cannot develop software for users that you despise,” Mow stated.

He pointed to specific behaviors to illustrate his claim, alleging that developers have been branding user nodes as “fake,” telling them “they don’t matter,” and even engaging in “DDoSing their nodes and laughing about it.”

The Jan3 executive described this behavior as “appalling” and suggested it stems from a problematic mindset:

“Somehow we’ve ended up with node software developers that have both a god complex and a victim mentality at the same time,” he wrote.

According to him, the only solution to the issue is a return to professionalism and humility. He stated that anyone looking to work on Bitcoin should not make it all about themselves or take out their frustrations on other users.

“If you are really such a talented developer, then how come you are completely incapable of convincing people that your changes are good?” Mow asked, alluding to the ongoing debate surrounding the decision to remove the longstanding 80-byte limit on OP_RETURN outputs, which has seemingly divided the community.

His sentiment found support from others, with developer ‘Uncle Rockstar’ pointing out that it was “easy for developers to fall into the trap of thinking that technical proficiency equals intellectual superiority.”

However, not everyone agrees with this characterization. Earlier, BTCAzores co-founder Antoine Poinsot stated that Bitcoin is money and that protocol developers cannot force anyone to use it one way or the other.  Meanwhile, security expert Jameson Lopp offered a more pragmatic view, suggesting programmers may simply be “building for a different set of users” and that the “free market tends to sort these things out.”

The Technical Catalyst

Initially, the 80-byte OP_RETURN cap was implemented as a “gentle signal” to discourage excessive non-financial data from being embedded on the blockchain. However, some developers now say the limit is obsolete because miners have found ways to bypass it, even though they are complex and inefficient.

According to them, removing it will promote cleaner data storage and uphold network neutrality. Some, like Gregory Sanders, have asserted that “this is not endorsing non-financial data usage, but accepting that as a censorship-resistant system, Bitcoin can and will be used for use cases not everyone agrees on.”

Still, their justification has failed to placate critics. One of them, Bitcoin Knots maintainer Luke Dashjr, called the removal “utter insanity,” a sentiment also echoed by Mow and others who fear it will lead to network spam and a departure from the blockchain’s main function as peer-to-peer electronic cash. This change has become the battleground for a much larger war over the soul and future direction of the Bitcoin network.

SPECIAL OFFER (Sponsored)

Binance Free $600 (CryptoPotato Exclusive): Use this link to register a new account and receive $600 exclusive welcome offer on Binance (full details).

LIMITED OFFER for CryptoPotato readers at Bybit: Use this link to register and open a $500 FREE position on any coin!

]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/samson-mow-slams-bitcoin-core-devs-contempt-for-users-threatens-network-future/feed/ 0 57612
Fenwick & West Slams Revised FTX Lawsuit, Denies Ties to Alleged Fraud https://earlybirdsinvest.com/fenwick-west-slams-revised-ftx-lawsuit-denies-ties-to-alleged-fraud/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/fenwick-west-slams-revised-ftx-lawsuit-denies-ties-to-alleged-fraud/#respond Sun, 31 Aug 2025 22:49:45 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/fenwick-west-slams-revised-ftx-lawsuit-denies-ties-to-alleged-fraud/

Fenwick & West has asked a Florida judge to block efforts to update a class-action lawsuit that claims the firm was closely involved in the events leading to the collapse of FTX.

In a filing submitted on August 25, Fenwick argued that the updated claims have no merit. The firm said it merely provided standard legal services and had no knowledge of any fraudulent activity.

Fenwick also criticized the timing of the amended lawsuit. According to the firm, the materials on which the plaintiffs rely have been publicly available for years. It also called the complaint misleading and lacking in substance.

What is a Crypto Airdrop & How to Get FREE Coins? (Animated)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

One key point raised by the FTX users is testimony from former FTX engineer Nishad Singh. Plaintiffs claim Singh said Fenwick helped disguise misused customer funds and questionable loans.

However, Fenwick stated that Singh only described the firm’s role in advising on how to structure founder loans, a common legal task for private companies.

Fenwick further noted that many witnesses in Sam Bankman-Fried’s trial confirmed that the fraud occurred without the awareness of FTX’s internal lawyers, external advisors, or accountants.

The updated lawsuit also introduces new claims that Fenwick played a role in launching and marketing the FTX Token (FTT), which may violate securities laws in Florida and California. Fenwick argued that they should have been included when the lawsuit was first filed.

The firm suggested the plaintiffs are adding these claims because most of their original allegations, particularly those targeting celebrities who endorsed FTX, have already been dismissed.

Recently, US federal authorities appealed the sentencing decision involving two Estonian citizens who admitted to operating a large-scale crypto mining scam. What was their argument? Read the full story.


]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/fenwick-west-slams-revised-ftx-lawsuit-denies-ties-to-alleged-fraud/feed/ 0 56111
Senator Elizabeth Warren Slams Crypto Bills as Gift to Trump’s Family Business https://earlybirdsinvest.com/senator-elizabeth-warren-slams-crypto-bills-as-gift-to-trumps-family-business/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/senator-elizabeth-warren-slams-crypto-bills-as-gift-to-trumps-family-business/#respond Tue, 12 Aug 2025 07:37:09 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/senator-elizabeth-warren-slams-crypto-bills-as-gift-to-trumps-family-business/

Senator Elizabeth Warren has voiced concern that new crypto-related laws may give an unfair financial advantage to President Donald Trump.

She claimed the recent legislation could help Trump’s family business, which is active in the crypto industry and reportedly backed by large amounts of foreign funding.

In an appearance on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, Warren argued that the crypto industry has had too much influence in shaping its own rules.

What Are Crypto Rollups? ZKSnarks vs Optimistic Rollups (ANIMATED)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

She stated:

We need regulation that limits the corruption and the ability of elected officials to trade in it, that also limits the ability to blow up the economy with crypto.

Warren pointed to the GENIUS Act, which has already passed, and the CLARITY Act, which is still under review. She said they reflect the growing pressure from crypto lobbyists and lack strong protections against misuse.

Her main concern centers on the Trump family’s financial involvement through World Liberty Financial. Warren noted that without stronger oversight, there is a risk that personal business interests could influence national policy.

She argued that the connection between public power and private gain must be addressed before it undermines public trust.

According to Warren, the current system of crypto oversight is not strong enough. She described the rules as “weak, weak restrictions” because they leave room for misuse by criminals, including those involved in terrorism or drug trafficking.

Recently, US senators, including Warren, called on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to address potential conflicts of interest involving President Trump’s cryptocurrency activities. What did they say? Read the full story.


]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/senator-elizabeth-warren-slams-crypto-bills-as-gift-to-trumps-family-business/feed/ 0 52785
Robert Kiyosaki slams ETFs for being ‘paper versions’ of Bitcoin, gold and silver https://earlybirdsinvest.com/robert-kiyosaki-slams-etfs-for-being-paper-versions-of-bitcoin-gold-and-silver/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/robert-kiyosaki-slams-etfs-for-being-paper-versions-of-bitcoin-gold-and-silver/#respond Sat, 26 Jul 2025 01:04:05 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/robert-kiyosaki-slams-etfs-for-being-paper-versions-of-bitcoin-gold-and-silver/

Investor and “Rich Dad Poor Dad” author Robert Kiyosaki warned investors to beware of holding Bitcoin (BTC), gold and silver through exchange‑traded funds, saying those paper‑based instruments are no substitute for the real thing.

Kiyosaki likened ETFs to having only a “picture of a gun” for self‑defense, useful in good times but useless in a crisis. He said ETFs make assets such as Bitcoin and bullion more accessible to everyday investors, but they don’t give investors physical possession of the underlying commodity.

He wrote:

“Sometimes it’s best to have real gold, silver, Bitcoin, and a gun.”

Kiyosaki’s skepticism isn’t new, he has previously told his followers to ditch “fake money,” meaning fiat currency, and turn to bearer assets like Bitcoin, gold and silver as a hedge against inflation and a weakening U.S. dollar.

He argued that paper claims on hard assets can become worthless if the institution issuing them fails to hold enough reserves. He added that a crisis of confidence can trigger a run on an ETF or bank that doesn’t have sufficient liquidity, risking collapse.

ETFs have exploded in popularity as more investors seek exposure to cryptocurrencies and precious metals without dealing with cold‑storage wallets or vaults.

Several spot Bitcoin ETFs, introduced in the US this year, regularly trade billions of dollars’ worth of shares. But that convenience comes at a cost, Kiyosaki contends: you are buying a claim, not the asset itself.

However, ETF experts like senior Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas believe such fears are unfounded. He told CoinTelegraph that ETFs are subject to strict safeguards and legal separation between issuers and custodians

He said:

“All the shares of the ETF are connected to actual Bitcoin; it’s a one‑for‑one ratio, there is no paper.”

Balchunas acknowledged that the crypto community is often suspicious of traditional finance, but noted the ETF sector has operated for 30 years with “a sterling reputation.”

Balchunas said that wealthy Bitcoin holders might actually be safer using ETFs, because self‑custody can make them targets for theft and ransom schemes. He added that physical gold and silver also carry storage and security costs that many retail investors can’t afford, and a regulated fund might be the better bet for them.

The debate highlights a broader tension between advocates of decentralized assets and the traditional financial system. While products like spot Bitcoin ETFs have brought billions in inflows and opened digital assets to a wider audience, skeptics such as Kiyosaki believe nothing beats personal possession in a crisis.

Mentioned in this article
]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/robert-kiyosaki-slams-etfs-for-being-paper-versions-of-bitcoin-gold-and-silver/feed/ 0 49685
New York Attorney General Slams Weak Crypto Bills, Demands Tougher Rules https://earlybirdsinvest.com/new-york-attorney-general-slams-weak-crypto-bills-demands-tougher-rules/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/new-york-attorney-general-slams-weak-crypto-bills-demands-tougher-rules/#respond Sat, 05 Jul 2025 08:38:10 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/new-york-attorney-general-slams-weak-crypto-bills-demands-tougher-rules/

Letitia James, Attorney General of New York, is asking Congress to make changes to two proposed laws focused on stablecoins.

In a letter sent on July 1, she said the current versions of the STABLE Act and the GENIUS Act are not strong enough to protect people who use or invest in these digital assets.

James said the bills need clearer rules to stop anonymous transactions. She warned that, without proper checks, stablecoins could be used for illegal activity such as fraud or money laundering.

What Is Tether? (USDT SIMPLY Explained With Animations)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

One of her suggestions is that stablecoin holders get the same kind of insurance protection that banks offer through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). This would help protect users if the company behind a stablecoin were to go out of business.

James also recommended that companies behind stablecoins should follow the same rules as banks. Since these companies hold people’s money and promise to keep its value steady, James noted that they should be treated like financial institutions.

This would include meeting certain standards to prevent harm if any of them fail.

Another point raised in the letter was the possible impact on small, local banks. James said stablecoins might create an unfair edge over community banks, which are already losing ground in many areas.

She wants lawmakers to consider how to protect these banks as new financial technologies emerge.

Recently, a group of US crypto advocacy organizations asked lawmakers to revise the CLARITY Act. What did they say? Read the full story.

Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.


]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/new-york-attorney-general-slams-weak-crypto-bills-demands-tougher-rules/feed/ 0 45872
BBC Slams Perplexity for Copying News, Demands Payback https://earlybirdsinvest.com/bbc-slams-perplexity-for-copying-news-demands-payback/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/bbc-slams-perplexity-for-copying-news-demands-payback/#respond Fri, 20 Jun 2025 23:52:15 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/bbc-slams-perplexity-for-copying-news-demands-payback/

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has accused Perplexity, a US-based artificial intelligence (AI) company, of copying its news content without permission.

According to a June 20 report by BBC, the broadcaster sent a letter to Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas, requesting that the firm cease using its material, delete any existing content, and offer compensation for past use.

The BBC stated that Perplexity’s chatbot has been repeating its articles word for word, which it considers a clear breach of copyright and a violation of its usage terms.

What is a MetaMask Wallet? (And How to Use it - Animated)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

The letter claimed these issues hurt the BBC’s reputation and risk damaging trust among its audience, especially those in the UK who pay licence fees to support the service. The broadcaster argued that the chatbot may cause confusion about what was actually reported and by whom.

The broadcaster also pointed to its own research from February, which found that several popular AI tools, including Perplexity, were summarizing news inaccurately.

Furthermore, the BBC noted that news organisations typically negotiate agreements before their content is reused, especially when it is part of a commercial product.

Perplexity dismissed the BBC’s claims. It stated:

The BBC’s claims are just one more part of the overwhelming evidence that the BBC will do anything to preserve Google’s illegal monopoly.

Meanwhile, OpenAI has challenged a copyright lawsuit from The New York Times, which demands that the company keep records of all user interactions. What did OpenAI say? Read the full story.

Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.


]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/bbc-slams-perplexity-for-copying-news-demands-payback/feed/ 0 43191
Connecticut Slams the Brakes on All Government Crypto Activity https://earlybirdsinvest.com/connecticut-slams-the-brakes-on-all-government-crypto-activity/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/connecticut-slams-the-brakes-on-all-government-crypto-activity/#respond Thu, 12 Jun 2025 02:07:31 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/connecticut-slams-the-brakes-on-all-government-crypto-activity/

Connecticut has decided to walk away from crypto by becoming the first state to fully block government involvement in digital assets.

On June 10, lawmakers unanimously approved Public Act No. 25-66, which applies strict limits on the state and its local governments’ interactions with cryptocurrencies.

Under the new law, public agencies are banned from creating or holding any kind of crypto reserve. They are also not allowed to accept digital currencies as payment for taxes, fees, or any other amount owed to the state or local authorities.

Crypto Day Trading VS Swapping: What’s More Rewarding? (Animated)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

It also places new requirements on crypto-related businesses operating in the state. Companies that transfer money using virtual currencies must clearly warn customers about the risks.

These businesses must display a message that says:

LOSSES DUE TO FRAUDULENT OR ACCIDENTAL TRANSACTIONS MAY NOT BE RECOVERABLE AND TRANSACTIONS IN VIRTUAL CURRENCY ARE IRREVERSIBLE.

Additionally, there are new protections in place for younger users. Companies must verify the identities of anyone under 18 and give full details about each crypto transaction when requested.

Furthermore, the legislation updates Connecticut’s financial rules, which include defining terms such as “digital wallet” and “kiosk” and ensuring that licensed crypto firms follow compliance standards. These updates give the state more control over how crypto services operate locally.

Recently, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced new policies regarding overseas services provided by Singapore-based cryptocurrency firms. What do the regulations say? Read the full story.

Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.


]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/connecticut-slams-the-brakes-on-all-government-crypto-activity/feed/ 0 41513
Dev Slams DeepSeek’s Latest AI Model for Avoiding Criticism of China https://earlybirdsinvest.com/dev-slams-deepseeks-latest-ai-model-for-avoiding-criticism-of-china/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/dev-slams-deepseeks-latest-ai-model-for-avoiding-criticism-of-china/#respond Fri, 30 May 2025 21:56:51 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/dev-slams-deepseeks-latest-ai-model-for-avoiding-criticism-of-china/

DeepSeek’s latest artificial intelligence (AI) model release has raised concerns as it tends to avoid conversations about sensitive political topics, especially those related to the Chinese government.

The new version, called R1-0528, was reviewed by a developer who goes by @xlr8harder on X.

In a series of posts, the developer compared it with earlier versions and pointed out that the latest model was less open to discussing controversial issues.

How to Trade NFTs Safely? (Animated Explainer For Beginners)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

One of the main examples involved a test question about internment camps. The AI acknowledged that camps in China’s Xinjiang region are linked to human rights problems but refused to engage in deeper discussion or criticize the Chinese government directly.

Even when asked directly about the camps, the new DeepSeek model repeated general concerns about human rights but stopped short of placing blame. @xlr8harder described the latest AI model as “the most censored” in terms of avoiding criticism of Chinese officials.

The developer said it was “not entirely surprising” that the model could name the camps as an example of abuse, but still chose not to answer when the question became more direct. They argued that this shows the model has been adjusted to avoid crossing certain lines, possibly to follow local rules.

Recently, Anthropic tested its latest AI model, Claude Opus 4, by placing it in a simulated office role with access to internal emails. What happened? Read the full story.

Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.


]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/dev-slams-deepseeks-latest-ai-model-for-avoiding-criticism-of-china/feed/ 0 39233
Aussie Senator Slams Bitcoin as a 'Ponzi Scheme', Sparks Backlash https://earlybirdsinvest.com/aussie-senator-slams-bitcoin-as-a-ponzi-scheme-sparks-backlash/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/aussie-senator-slams-bitcoin-as-a-ponzi-scheme-sparks-backlash/#respond Tue, 27 May 2025 06:43:59 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/aussie-senator-slams-bitcoin-as-a-ponzi-scheme-sparks-backlash/

Australian Senator Gerard Rennick caused a stir in a May 23 post on X after describing Bitcoin
BTC


$108,313.52

as a “Ponzi scheme”.

He claimed that Bitcoin’s value would keep climbing due to large investors like BlackRock pushing more money into an asset with a fixed supply.

Senator Rennick added, “You can’t eat Bitcoin”, and questioned its usefulness in the real world.

NEAR Protocol Explained: Beginner's Guide to NEAR (Animated)

Did you know?

Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?

Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!

Currently leading the People First Party, Senator Rennick argued that Bitcoin and its supporters offer little to Australia’s economy. Instead, he said the country should focus on building essential infrastructure like roads, energy systems, and clean water access.

He wrote in a post, “Australia needs real engineers, not financial engineers”.

Senator Rennick’s remarks drew criticism from the crypto community. In a May 24 post on X, the Australian Bitcoin Industry Body (ABIB) called his comments “a deep misunderstanding”.

They warned that public statements like his could lead to poor decisions by lawmakers. ABIB said Australians already use Bitcoin, and the real issue is whether leaders are willing to understand its role in the country’s future.

Senator Rennick, however, questioned why anyone cared about his opinion on Bitcoin in the first place. He wrote in a follow-up post on X, “You’re disappointed about what a politician thinks about Bitcoin? Seriously? Invest as you will”.

A recent proposal to make Bitcoin easier to use has sparked fresh discussion, reviving a long-running debate about its smallest units. What did the crypto community say? Read the full story.

Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.


]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/aussie-senator-slams-bitcoin-as-a-ponzi-scheme-sparks-backlash/feed/ 0 38541
VanEck Exec Slams SEC For Delay On Bitcoin ETF Options – Details https://earlybirdsinvest.com/vaneck-exec-slams-sec-for-delay-on-bitcoin-etf-options-details/ https://earlybirdsinvest.com/vaneck-exec-slams-sec-for-delay-on-bitcoin-etf-options-details/#respond Sun, 25 May 2025 10:36:24 +0000 https://earlybirdsinvest.com/vaneck-exec-slams-sec-for-delay-on-bitcoin-etf-options-details/

Trusted Editorial content, reviewed by leading industry experts and seasoned editors. Ad Disclosure

Matthew Sigel, the head of digital assets research at VanEck, has criticized the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over a delayed response on a proposal to list options trading on the firm’s Bitcoin Spot ETF. 

Notably, the Commission has continued to issue delayed responses to all recent digital asset-related ETF proposals/amendments despite a crypto-friendly policy of the Donald Trump Administration.

SEC Delay Is Frustrating, Offers No Feedback, VanEck’s Sigel Says

On April 3, 2025, the Chicago Board of Exchange (Cboe) filed a proposed rule change to list options trading on the VanEck Bitcoin ETF (HODL). For context, options trading grants investors the right to buy and sell an asset at a specific price before a certain date.

Following the resounding success of the US Bitcoin Spot ETFs, options trading became a potential mode of market expansion, with several asset managers submitting applications to offer options to their respective ETFs. 

Notably, the SEC has granted approval for this request for multiple Bitcoin ETFs, including the Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund (FBTC), BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust (BTC), and the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF (BITB), among others. 

However, following the initial 45-day review, the Commission has delayed a response on Cboe’s proposal to list trading options on the VanEck Bitcoin ETF (HODL). In an X post on May 23, Matthew Sigel strongly criticized this decision, which he described as “frustrating” and offered no transparency to investors. 

While tagging Hester Pierce, the Head of the SEC’s Crypto Task Force, Sigel complained that the Commission had issued a delayed response while offering no comments or feedback along with this decision. The VanEck Exec explained the asset manager’s objection to this development while responding to a user comment. He said. 

This was the first decision date, so it has not been rejected, just delayed, even though the SEC’s initial comments were addressed. It’s the lack of any feedback that is particularly irksome…

It is highly worth noting that delayed responses by the SEC have been quite a common response for digital assets ETF-related proposals. The Commission can choose to wait till the final decision deadline, i.e., 240 days after the application, as seen with the Bitcoin Spot ETFs in 2024.  However, Sigel’s concerns stem from an absence of an explanation on this delayed ruling, especially considering that options trading has been approved for certain other Bitcoin Spot ETFs.

Bitcoin Price Overview 

At the time of writing, Bitcoin trades at $108,349, reflecting gains of 5.23% and 17.71% in the past seven and 30 days, respectively. 

VanEck
BTC trading at $108,244 on the daily chart | Source: BTCUSDT chart on Tradingview.com

Featured image from iStock, chart from Tradingview

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.

]]>
https://earlybirdsinvest.com/vaneck-exec-slams-sec-for-delay-on-bitcoin-etf-options-details/feed/ 0 38218