<h2>MoonPay Acquires Helio for $175M to Enhance Crypto Payment Services</h2>MoonPay has&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/moonpay/status/1878792175045198317">acquired Helio</a>, a&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/solana-sol">Solana</a>-based payment processor, for $175 million to enhance its crypto payment services. Known for its crypto checkout platform, Helio allows businesses to accept payments in digital assets like&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitcoin-btc">Bitcoin</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/ethereum-eth">Ether</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/usd-coin-usdc">USD Coin</a>, serving over 6,000 merchants with a transaction history exceeding $1.5 billion. The acquisition will strengthen MoonPay’s payment infrastructure, aiming to improve the efficiency and speed of merchant transactions.&nbsp;Helio is integrated with popular platforms such as Discord, Shopify, and WooCommerce, enabling a more comprehensive solution for merchants and consumers. Stijn Paumen, Helio's CEO, highlighted the move as a way to offer faster, cost-effective, decentralized payment options. Additionally, MoonPay received approval to operate as a licensed crypto business in the Netherlands under the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) bill, marking a significant step in its growth strategy and solidifying the crypto industry's role in the global economy.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Chainalysis Acquires AI Startup Alterya for $150M to Enhance Crypto Fraud Prevention</h2>Chainalysis has acquired Israeli AI startup Alterya for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chainalysis.com/blog/chainalysis-alterya-announcement/">$150 million</a>, enhancing its capabilities in fraud detection across both crypto and traditional finance. Founded in 2022 and supported by $9.8 million in seed funding, Alterya specializes in using AI agents to prevent scams targeting financial institutions, fintechs, and crypto service providers. The acquisition enables Chainalysis to transition from reactive investigations to proactive fraud prevention, especially as scams increasingly utilize generative AI.&nbsp;Alterya monitors over $8 billion in monthly transactions, helping clients like&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/review/binance">Binance</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/review/coinbase">Coinbase</a> identify and reduce fraud by 60%. In 2024 alone, Alterya detected $10 billion sent to scams and has protected 100 million end-users. According to Coinbase's Ilan Zimmer, Alterya’s technology effectively identifies&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/crypto-wallets">wallet</a> addresses associated with scams, aiding in customer protection and trust-building. This move follows Chainalysis’s recent acquisition of Hexagate, further solidifying their commitment to combatting financial crimes.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

Cubic robot holding contract and crypto asset

Cubic robot holding contract and crypto asset_11zon.webp

Crypto M&A Highlights: MoonPay Acquires Helio, Chainalysis Adds Alterya

<h2>Initial Distributions Scheduled for Early 2025</h2><a href="https://coin360.com/coin/ftx-token-ftt">FTX</a>, the now-defunct cryptocurrency exchange that filed for bankruptcy in November 2022, is preparing to distribute over $1.2 billion to creditors starting January 2025. This repayment initiative marks a pivotal step in addressing the financial fallout from one of the largest failures in the crypto industry. The initial wave of distributions will target “convenience class” creditors owed up to $50,000, with&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/exchange/kraken">Kraken</a> and BitGo facilitating the repayment process.Creditors have until January 20, 2025, to fulfill pre-distribution requirements, a deadline that aligns with Donald Trump’s inauguration day and the potential acceptance of the&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitcoin-btc">Bitcoin</a> Act, which proposes creating a U.S. Bitcoin reserve. Sunil, a member of the FTX Customer Ad-Hoc Committee,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/sunil_trades/status/1878370811515379942">emphasized this timeline</a> in a post, clarifying that repayments are unlikely to commence before this date. The first payments are expected to roll out within 60 days of this deadline, contingent on proper documentation and onboarding with Kraken or BitGo.<figure class="image"><img alt="tweet-1878370811515379942_11zon.jpg" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1878370811515379942_11zon_7626dc8cd2.jpg"></figure>Under the approved repayment model, creditors will receive 119% of their assets’ declared value, calculated using cryptocurrency prices at the time of FTX’s bankruptcy. While some creditors view this as a step forward, others have criticized the plan for disregarding Bitcoin’s more than 370% price increase since November 2022. Smaller investors may sell their assets upon repayment for financial security, while others are likely to hold onto their crypto, betting on long-term market growth.&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/blockchain">Blockchain</a> expert Anndy Lian highlighted the disparity, noting that those with greater faith in crypto’s future are less inclined to liquidate.The crypto community remains divided over the implications of this repayment plan. While some see it as a crucial move to restore trust in the market, critics argue it undercuts gains achieved during crypto’s recovery. Comparisons have been drawn to Mt. Gox’s Bitcoin repayment saga, where many creditors retained their holdings despite significant market appreciation. Philipp Zentner, CEO of LI.FI protocol, described the current market conditions as akin to a “Black Friday” sale for crypto, suggesting a favorable environment for creditors who choose to hold.The broader financial impact of FTX’s repayments could lead to heightened market volatility. Analysts predict a liquidity event as some creditors liquidate their holdings, while others may retain their assets in anticipation of further growth. Zentner suggested this repayment could catalyze market momentum, serving as a potential driver for long-term industry expansion. Historical data from Glassnode supports the view that widespread sell-offs are unlikely, as most creditors tend to retain their cryptocurrency rather than convert it to fiat.Kraken and BitGo’s&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/news/kraken-ftx-creditor-payouts">involvement</a> ensures a streamlined distribution process for the roughly 1,500 creditors included in the initial phase. Their participation aims to reduce administrative hurdles, expediting payouts and bringing resolution to those affected by FTX’s collapse. This significant repayment effort reflects broader industry efforts to rebuild investor confidence and&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/address">address</a> the damages caused by one of crypto’s most high-profile failures.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

Cubic robot distributing tokens on pastel pathway

Cubic robot distributing tokens on pastel pathway_11zon.webp

FTX Set to Distribute $1.2 Billion to Creditors Following Trump's Inauguration

<h2>Community Reacts to Temporary Suspension with Skepticism</h2>Indian cryptocurrency investment platform Mudrex has temporarily halted cryptocurrency withdrawals as part of a compliance upgrade, sparking varied reactions from its user base and the broader crypto community. Announced on January 13, 2025, the move was framed as a proactive step to strengthen security and streamline operations. Alankar Saxena, the platform’s founder and CTO,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/alankar_saxena/status/1878343681121697872">assured users</a> that withdrawals would resume by January 28, emphasizing the temporary nature of the suspension and reaffirming the safety of user funds.<figure class="image"><img alt="tweet-1878343681121697872_11zon.jpg" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1878343681121697872_11zon_990f400e3a.jpg"></figure>Mudrex’s leadership underscored the decision as a necessity to counter increasing scrutiny in the crypto sector. CEO Edul Patel&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Dul_dul/status/1878347101979169194">highlighted</a> plans to automate and refine verification processes to ensure quicker, more reliable withdrawals while upholding rigorous compliance standards. Patel noted that this suspension reflects a broader industry push to prevent misuse by bad actors, fostering a safer environment for traders. Throughout this period, INR (Indian Rupee) withdrawals remain unaffected, preserving access to fiat currency for Indian users.<figure class="image"><img src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1878347101979169194_20250114_015451_via_10015_io_11zon_c520a4dae4.jpg" alt="tweet_1878347101979169194_20250114_015451_via_10015_io_11zon.jpg"></figure>Despite the reassurances, the announcement triggered&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/AakashAtha/status/1877995827156729997">skepticism</a> within India’s crypto community. Critics accused Mudrex of prioritizing “price exposure” over genuine ownership. Some drew comparisons with past incidents involving other exchanges, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/wazirx-wrx">WazirX</a>, raising broader concerns about transparency in India’s cryptocurrency ecosystem. Addressing the backlash, Saxena took to X (formerly Twitter) to dispel misinformation, reaffirming the platform’s commitment to the core principles of cryptocurrency and transparency.<figure class="image"><img src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1877995827156729997_11zon_4faa17bf12.jpg" alt="tweet-1877995827156729997_11zon.jpg"></figure>While some skepticism lingered, Mudrex’s clarification efforts garnered positive responses from a segment of users. Many&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/IITian_InCrypto/status/1878389677759062150">expressed relief</a> over the company’s openness, with one user commenting, “Thanks for addressing this issue! This will give clarity to investors.” Others urged the platform to maintain consistent transparency, seeing it as a vital component of trust-building in the volatile crypto landscape.<figure class="image"><img src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1878389677759062150_20250114_015558_via_10015_io_11zon_1699528b54.jpg" alt="tweet_1878389677759062150_20250114_015558_via_10015_io_11zon.jpg"></figure>This isn’t Mudrex’s first encounter with operational challenges. In August 2024, the platform successfully secured a court order to dismantle fraudulent websites that impersonated its services. These scams, often orchestrated through Telegram, misled users with false promises of rewards and job offers. The incident underlined Mudrex’s resolve to combat fraud and safeguard its rapidly growing user base, which saw a 200% year-over-year increase by late 2024.Mudrex’s decision to pause crypto withdrawals aligns with its long-term strategy to enhance its compliance infrastructure in a regulatory environment that continues to evolve. By focusing on transparency and security, the platform aims to bolster user confidence despite short-term reputational risks. As January 28 approaches, the success of these measures will likely define Mudrex’s ability to sustain its standing in India’s increasingly competitive crypto market.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

Blockchain pathway compliance upgrade by humanoid robot

Blockchain pathway compliance upgrade by humanoid robot_11zon.webp

Mudrex Suspends Crypto Withdrawals Citing Compliance Overhaul

<h2>Tokenomics, Community Engagement, and Strategic Partnerships</h2>Animecoin is gearing up to make waves in January 2025 with the launch of its ANIME token on&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/ethereum-eth">Ethereum</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/arbitrum-arb">Arbitrum</a>, promising to reshape the global anime fandom through&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/web3-companies-projects">Web3</a> integration. Backed by the&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/nft/0xed5af388653567af2f388e6224dc7c4b3241c544">Azuki</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/nft">NFT</a> series and Arbitrum, Animecoin introduces a comprehensive&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/tokenomics">tokenomics</a> model designed to empower the community while fostering ecosystem growth.<figure class="image"><img alt="tokenomics_11zon.jpg" src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tokenomics_11zon_c8241048c1.jpg"></figure>The total supply of 10 billion ANIME tokens reflects a community-first approach, with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.anime.xyz/tokenomics">50.5%</a> dedicated to engaging and cultivating its base. Notably, 37.5% is earmarked for the Azuki NFT community, aligning with its mission of strengthening anime culture. An additional 13% is set aside for AnimeDAO initiatives, enabling fans to lead and fund community projects.&nbsp;The Azuki team itself will receive 7.44% of the tokens, structured with a three-year vesting schedule and a one-year cliff to ensure their commitment to the project’s success. Early contributors, including Azuki employees and advisors, will share in 15.62% under the same vesting terms. The Animecoin Foundation, tasked with ecosystem expansion, holds 24.44%, while strategic partners such as&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/hyperliquid-hype">Hyperliquid</a> and Kaito AI will receive 2%.Alex Xu, Azuki’s founder, underscored the project’s vision,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Zagabond/status/1803802757847200028/photo/1">stating</a>, “The overall experience of anime culture is fragmented. There is a lack of a unified platform to bring this global fandom together in a meaningful way.” By framing ANIME as a “Culture Coin,” the foundation aims to unify the diverse and expansive anime fandom—estimated at 1 billion enthusiasts—into a decentralized, participatory creative economy. The initiative transforms fans from passive consumers to active contributors, bridging cultural passion with blockchain technology.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Airdrops and Collaborations Fuel Anticipation</h2>The Animecoin launch is further bolstered by strategic partnerships and&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/airdrop">airdrops</a> targeting key stakeholders. Hyperliquid’s&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/hyperliquid-hype">HYPE</a> token stakers will benefit from an ANIME token airdrop,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HyperliquidX/status/1878598088979570985">announced</a> Monday via X (formerly Twitter).&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://prod-coin360-cms.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/tweet_1878598088979570985_20250114_013802_via_10015_io_11zon_31ac7e6315.jpg" alt="tweet_1878598088979570985_20250114_013802_via_10015_io_11zon.jpg"></figure>Other recipients include Kaito platform users, members of the Arbitrum community, and anime enthusiasts. The Animecoin Foundation expressed its enthusiasm, saying, “We’re excited to welcome the Hyperliquid community (HYPE stakers), Kaito yappers, Arbitrum communities, and anime communities to the open anime universe.”This collaboration coincides with notable market reactions. Azuki NFT prices surged to a floor of 14.59&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/ethereum-eth">ETH</a>, marking a 13.3% jump within 24 hours, while BEANZ NFT prices climbed 23.2% to 0.95 ETH. Analysts attribute this spike to growing enthusiasm around Animecoin’s potential to integrate anime culture with blockchain’s decentralized ethos. One community member noted, “This blend of culture and&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/decentralised-finance">DeFi</a> could ignite serious interest.”<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Challenges and Market Dynamics</h2>Despite the optimism, challenges persist. Hyperliquid, one of Animecoin’s key partners, faces hurdles after its total value locked (<a href="https://coin360.com/glossary/understanding-tvl-defi">TVL</a>) hit a yearly low. Speculation regarding security vulnerabilities, including&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/news/hyper-liquid-sees-millions-of-daily-usdc-withdrawal-amid-fears-of-north-korean-hacking">threats</a> from the notorious Lazarus Group, has fueled concerns. However, the ANIME token airdrop is seen as a strategic opportunity to reinvigorate engagement and align Hyperliquid’s community with Animecoin’s expansive vision.The Animecoin Foundation framed this initiative as a pivotal moment for anime culture, stating, “For decades, anime has shaped global culture—from art to fashion, gaming, and music. Yet these fans have remained passive consumers. Until now.” By leveraging blockchain, Animecoin is set to transform the anime fandom into a cohesive and participatory creative economy, potentially setting a new benchmark for cultural integration in Web3.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.&nbsp;

Faceless robot painting Azuki NFTs on pastel holographic canvas

Faceless robot painting Azuki NFTs on pastel holographic canvas_11zon.webp

Animecoin Reveals Tokenomics with Over 50% Allocated to Community

<h2>New Hampshire and North Dakota Propose Bills for Strategic Bitcoin Reserves</h2>New Hampshire and North Dakota have recently introduced legislation aimed at creating a strategic&nbsp;<a href="https://coin360.com/coin/bitcoin-btc">Bitcoin</a> reserve, as part of a broader initiative to integrate cryptocurrency into state financial strategies. In New Hampshire, the bill was introduced by Republican Representative Keith Ammon and&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Dennis_Porter_/status/1877757532305039502">refers to</a> “digital assets” rather than explicitly mentioning Bitcoin. This approach aims to ease political tensions. Meanwhile, North Dakota's legislation is supported by Representatives Nathan Toman and Josh Christy, alongside Senator Jeff Barta, and boasts 11 sponsors. Additionally, Pennsylvania introduced a similar proposal in November, with Representative Mike Cabell highlighting Bitcoin’s potential as a hedge against inflation. Interest in Bitcoin reserves has surged following Donald Trump's promise to make the U.S. a cryptocurrency leader if elected. Current market sentiment suggests only a 27% chance that Trump will establish a Bitcoin reserve within his first 100 days, which reflects a decrease from 45% in November.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>FDIC's Travis Hill Calls for Policy Shift on Crypto Banking Restrictions</h2>FDIC Vice Chair Travis Hill has&nbsp;<a href="https://beincrypto.com/operation-chokepoint-fdic-crypto-policies/">criticized</a> past federal restrictions on banks’ involvement in cryptocurrency, including the controversial use of “pause letters” that hindered innovation and perception of regulatory obstruction. He called for an end to tactics reminiscent of “Operation Choke Point,” which pressured banks to limit services to certain industries, urging clearer guidelines for safe engagement with digital assets. Hill emphasized the need for balanced regulations that enable banks to evolve while managing risks effectively. He highlighted a lack of transparent standards for handling cryptocurrencies, referring to a 2023 FDIC report that disclosed multiple “pause letters” sent to banks. Furthermore, Hill indicated that existing Bank Secrecy Act policies incentivize banks to shut accounts over compliance fears, underlining the need for a reevaluation of these approaches. The ongoing push for fair treatment of the crypto sector is reinforced by legal actions from industry leaders demanding better regulatory practices.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Trump Establishes Crypto Advisory Council to Shape New U.S. Digital Asset Policies</h2>President-elect Donald Trump is establishing a new&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/CswapIntern/status/1878778594693898245">crypto advisory council</a>, comprising approximately 24 CEOs and founders, to shape U.S. digital asset policies and draft pro-crypto legislation. This initiative aims to create a strategic Bitcoin reserve and collaborate with major agencies like the SEC, CFTC, and Treasury to develop a clear regulatory framework, addressing the ongoing regulatory uncertainties in the crypto sector.&nbsp;Key figures, such as Crypto.com CEO Kris Marszalek and Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire, have actively engaged with Trump, with Allaire contributing $1 million in USDC to support crypto initiatives. Bo Hines, a former congressional candidate, has been appointed to lead the council alongside David Sacks, Trump’s AI and crypto czar, focusing on fostering innovation in the digital asset realm. To rally industry support, a black-tie event named the “Inaugural Crypto Ball” is scheduled for January 17th in Washington, D.C. This signals a proactive approach to U.S. crypto policy under Trump's leadership.<div class="page-break" style="page-break-after:always;">&nbsp;</div><h2>Singapore Bans Polymarket Amid Crackdown on Unlicensed Online Gambling</h2>Singapore has officially restricted access to the prediction marketplace Polymarket as part of a national crackdown on unlicensed online gambling. This initiative has already led to the shutdown of over 3,800 gambling websites since the start of 2025, with more than $37 million worth of transactions blocked. On January 12, Singapore's Gaming Regulatory Authority (GRA) warned users that Polymarket is illegal, imposing penalties that could include fines of up to SGD 10,000 (approximately $7,200) and six months in prison.&nbsp;Residents wishing to engage in online betting must use Singapore Pools, the only licensed online gambling provider in the country. The restriction aligns Singapore with jurisdictions such as Taiwan, France, and the U.S., which have also taken measures against Polymarket following its rising popularity during the 2024 presidential election. Notably, Taiwan prosecuted an individual for political betting on the platform, showcasing the stringent regulatory environment surrounding online gambling.This article has been refined and enhanced by ChatGPT.

Humanoid robot presents crypto law tablet on a digital courtroom

Crypto M&A Highlights: MoonPay Acquires Helio, Chainalysis Adds Alterya

MoonPay Acquires Helio for $175M to Enhance Crypto Payment Services

Chainalysis Acquires AI Startup Alterya for $150M to Enhance Crypto Fraud Prevention

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