Connect with us

Business

Cryptocurrencies Accepted at Sotheby’s Auctioning of Rare Diamond Worth $15 Million

Cryptocurrencies Accepted at Sotheby’s Auctioning of Rare Diamond Worth $15 Million

Published

on

Photo: Shutterstock

Sotheby’s, the world’s largest auction house, is auctioning a rare, 101.38-carat flawless diamond estimated to be worth $15 million, and cryptocurrencies are accepted.

Biggest Auction House Accepts Cryptocurrencies
Sotheby’s announced Monday that it is auctioning a rare, pear-shaped diamond on July 9 in Hong Kong that can be purchased with cryptocurrency.

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s described itself as the world’s largest marketplace for art and luxury. With a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 44 departments, “we host over 600 auctions annually and offer a cross-category selection of items available for immediate purchase via both digital and physical shopping experiences as well as private sales,” its website details. Artprice.com ranks Sotheby’s as the number one auction house by turnover, followed by Christie’s.

The auction house explained that this is the first time a diamond of such size, or any physical object of such high value, is offered for public purchase with cryptocurrency. Bitcoin, ether, and traditional money will be accepted as payment.

Patti Wong, chairman of Sotheby’s Asia, said in a statement:

This is a truly symbolic moment. The most ancient and emblematic denominator of value can now, for the first time, be purchased using humanity’s newest universal currency

The name of the diamond is Key 10138. The auction house describes it as a 101.38-carat, pear-shaped, colorless, flawless diamond. It is one of just 10 diamonds of more than 100 carats ever to come to auction. It carries a pre-sale estimate of $10 million – $15 million.

Sotheby’s began accepting cryptocurrencies via Coinbase back in May with Banksy’s “Love is in the Air” image at the Contemporary Art Evening Auction. The piece sold for $12.9 million

Source Credits: Bitcoin.com

Business

Bitcoin price risks drop to $71K as Trump tariffs hurt US business outlook

Published

on

Bitcoin is setting its sights on the $71,000 mark as market conditions shift in response to geopolitical and economic developments, including a new tariff agreement and weakening U.S. business sentiment.

Recent market activity suggests that Bitcoin is benefiting from concerns over traditional economic indicators, with investors turning to digital assets as a hedge against economic uncertainty. A rare slump in U.S. business outlook has fueled speculation that risk assets, including Bitcoin, could see increased inflows.

Additionally, ongoing global trade negotiations and tariff adjustments have contributed to market volatility, prompting investors to seek alternative stores of value. Analysts suggest that if macroeconomic pressures persist, Bitcoin could continue its upward trajectory, potentially testing the $71,000 resistance level.

Despite short-term fluctuations, Bitcoin remains a focal point for investors navigating inflation concerns, regulatory shifts, and global economic trends. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Bitcoin can sustain its momentum and break through key price barriers.

Continue Reading

Business

Crypto donations top $1B in 2024, gain traction after Myanmar, Thailand quake

Published

on

Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, the former CEO of Binance, has donated 1,000 BNB to aid relief efforts following a powerful earthquake that struck the Thailand-Myanmar border region. The donation, valued at approximately $600,000, aims to support those affected by the disaster and assist in recovery operations.

The earthquake caused significant damage in several areas, displacing residents and impacting local infrastructure. CZ’s contribution highlights the growing role of cryptocurrency in humanitarian aid, providing fast and transparent relief funding.

The donation will be distributed to organizations working on the ground to deliver emergency assistance, including shelter, food, and medical supplies. Crypto-based aid is increasingly being utilized in disaster response efforts due to its efficiency in reaching affected communities without the delays of traditional banking systems.

As the affected regions begin the recovery process, the crypto community continues to demonstrate how blockchain technology can play a meaningful role in global humanitarian initiatives.

Continue Reading

Business

Hackers are selling counterfeit phones with crypto-stealing malware

Published

on

Security researchers have uncovered a wave of counterfeit Android devices preloaded with malware designed to steal cryptocurrency, posing a significant threat to users worldwide. The infected devices, which mimic popular smartphone brands, contain malicious software capable of hijacking digital wallets and siphoning funds.

The malware, embedded at the firmware level, allows attackers to gain remote access, intercept sensitive data, and execute unauthorized transactions. Because the malicious code is deeply integrated into the device’s operating system, it is difficult to detect and remove, making it a persistent threat.

Cybersecurity experts warn that unsuspecting buyers may unknowingly expose their crypto holdings to risk by purchasing these compromised devices from unverified sellers. Users are urged to exercise caution by only purchasing smartphones from trusted retailers and manufacturers.

The discovery highlights the growing sophistication of cybercriminals targeting the cryptocurrency sector. As mobile-based crypto transactions become more common, security measures such as hardware wallet usage and multi-factor authentication are increasingly essential to safeguard digital assets from emerging threats.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025 cryptonews.lk