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Thailand delays digital money handout

Thailand’s planned digital wallet scheme, which intends to payout 10,000 baht (~$274) to citizens over 16 years old, has been delayed, while critics call for a probe from the country’s electoral commission.

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Thailand’s planned digital wallet scheme, which intends to payout 10,000 baht (~$274) to citizens over 16 years old, has been delayed, while critics call for a probe from the country’s electoral commission.

As originally reported by the Bangkok Post, Thailand’s deputy finance minister, Julapun Amornvivat, announced that the planned February 2024 launch of a new digital wallet has been delayed to buy more time for the development of the system.

The Thai government hopes to use the wallet to issue 10,000 baht to eligible citizens in a bid to stimulate the local economy.

A statement from Amornvivat highlighted that the government wants more time to ensure the security of the system underpinning the digital grant wallet while reaffirming that its launch will still take place in the first quarter of 2024.

According to reports from the country, the sub-committee responsible for the program is still deliberating over the source of the funds for the scheme. The Pheu Thai Party’s digital wallet scheme is estimated to cost 548 billion baht ($15 billion).

The government previously projected the initiative to stimulate economic growth by 5% next year, while Amornvivat also suggested that tax revenue from increased economic activity would help fund part of the cost of the program.

Former Thai Senator Rosana Tositrakul is a vocal skeptic of the project and has since requested the election commission probe the legality of the proposed scheme.

With the Thai government considering using its national budget to fund the digital handout, questions over a lack of funding and the potential of raising debt to pay for the initiative have led to Tositrakul questioning the legality of the scheme.

Business

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

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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.

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

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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.

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Hackers are selling counterfeit phones with crypto-stealing malware

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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.

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