Starknet, the Ethereum layer-2 scaling solution, has announced plans to incorporate Bitcoin as a settlement layer, marking a significant step toward interoperability between the two largest blockchain networks. This move aims to bridge Ethereum’s smart contract ecosystem with Bitcoin’s robust security and decentralization.

The integration will enable Starknet transactions to be settled on Bitcoin, potentially enhancing security while fostering greater cross-chain functionality. By leveraging Bitcoin as a settlement layer, Starknet seeks to unify blockchain ecosystems, allowing developers and users to benefit from both Ethereum’s programmability and Bitcoin’s immutable ledger.

This development aligns with the broader trend of enhancing Bitcoin’s utility beyond a store of value. With innovations like Bitcoin ordinals and layer-2 solutions gaining traction, Bitcoin is increasingly being positioned as a foundation for decentralized applications.

Starknet’s decision reflects a growing industry focus on interoperability, as projects explore ways to connect major blockchain networks without relying on centralized intermediaries. While details on the implementation timeline remain unclear, the initiative could mark a milestone in blockchain unification, paving the way for a more interconnected decentralized financial ecosystem.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has dropped its lawsuit against a prominent YouTuber accused of unlawfully promoting an initial coin offering (ICO) without proper disclosures. The decision marks a significant development in the ongoing regulatory scrutiny of social media influencers involved in cryptocurrency promotions.

The YouTuber had been targeted by the SEC for allegedly endorsing a crypto project without informing followers of any financial compensation received for the promotion. The case was part of the regulator’s broader crackdown on influencers who promote digital assets without adhering to securities laws.

While the SEC’s decision to dismiss the lawsuit removes immediate legal pressure, it does not indicate a change in the agency’s overall enforcement approach. The regulator has repeatedly warned content creators and social media personalities about their responsibility to disclose financial incentives when promoting crypto investments.

Legal experts suggest that the dropped case may reflect challenges in proving wrongdoing or indicate a shift in enforcement priorities. However, the SEC is expected to continue monitoring influencer-driven crypto promotions, especially as digital asset markets evolve.

The outcome serves as a reminder that regulatory scrutiny remains high in the crypto space, and influencers promoting token sales may still face legal consequences if they fail to comply with disclosure requirements.

Coinbase is preparing to relaunch its operations in India after securing registration with the country’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), signaling a renewed push into one of the world’s fastest-growing cryptocurrency markets.

The U.S.-based crypto exchange had previously faced regulatory hurdles in India, leading to a scaling back of its services. However, with FIU registration now in place, Coinbase is positioning itself to operate within the country’s legal framework, potentially restoring full trading services for Indian users.

India’s crypto regulatory landscape remains complex, with authorities maintaining a strict stance on compliance and taxation. The government has implemented a 30% tax on crypto gains and a 1% transaction tax deducted at source (TDS), factors that have contributed to a decline in trading activity within the country.

Despite these challenges, Coinbase’s renewed entry into India reflects the exchange’s long-term commitment to the market. The company has previously highlighted India as a key region for Web3 development, with plans to support local blockchain startups and developers.

The comeback aligns with Coinbase’s broader global expansion strategy as it seeks to navigate regulatory challenges and establish itself as a leading player in international crypto markets. The company’s next steps in India will be closely watched as it works to rebuild its presence in a highly regulated but rapidly growing digital asset economy.