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Rwanda Central Bank Joins CBDC Movement After Announcing Digital Currency Research

Rwanda Central Bank Joins CBDC Movement After Announcing Digital Currency Research

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The National Bank of Rwanda (NBR) has become the latest African central bank to join the digital currency movement after an employee confirmed the institution is studying the possibilities of issuing its own digital currency.

CBDC Implications on Financial Stability

According to the employee, John Karamuka, this study will be looking at economic, financial, and technical aspects related to central bank digital currencies (CBDC), as well as “the operationalization model.” The study will also analyze the “implication of the CBDC on monetary policy and financial stability.”

However, in his remarks to The New Times, Karamuka revealed that the study had exposed the limits or lack of global standards and reliable benchmarks on the subject. On the African continent, a few countries, namely Nigeria, Ghana, and Tanzania recently either signaled plans to explore or have made progress on developing CBDCs. Still, only a few countries globally, including small nations like the Bahamas and The Republic of the Marshall Islands, have seen their CBDC projects make real progress.

Meanwhile, Karamuka, who is the director of payment systems at the NBR, explains how his organization has attempted to benchmark its own progress. He said:

Nevertheless, we are benchmarking on countries that are at more advanced stages, learning both positive and negative experiences. We are basing on work done by international institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, World Economic Forum among others.

The Necessity of the CBDC

The New Times report also carried the Rwandese crypto and blockchain community leader’s reaction to the revelations. Norbert Haguma, who is the Chairman of the Rwanda Blockchain Association, questions the necessity of a CBDC. He said:

“A CBDC should retain the best attributes of both cash and existing e-wallet solutions: cash can be exchanged offline, without restrictions or fees, while digital payments such as mobile money allow for instant long-distance transfers.”

Additionally, Haguma suggests that financial inclusion and the CBDC’s interoperability should be key factors that must be considered as well. Following Karamuka’s revelations, Rwanda, whose central bank issued a warning against bitcoin trading in 2018, becomes the latest African country to signal its readiness to embrace emerging fintech. The revelations come a few weeks after the Central American nation of El Salvador made bitcoin legal tender.

Source Credits: Bitcoin.com

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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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