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Cyprus calls for collective crackdown on crypto terror financing

Cyprus has intensified its efforts to combat the potential misuse of cryptocurrencies for financing terrorism, according to recent reports. The Mediterranean island nation has joined forces with international partners to strengthen regulatory frameworks and enhance monitoring of digital financial transactions.

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Cyprus has intensified its efforts to combat the potential misuse of cryptocurrencies for financing terrorism, according to recent reports. The Mediterranean island nation has joined forces with international partners to strengthen regulatory frameworks and enhance monitoring of digital financial transactions.

Sources indicate that Cyprus is bolstering its regulatory measures to prevent illicit activities involving cryptocurrencies, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in addressing global financial security concerns. The move comes amid growing scrutiny of digital assets as potential avenues for illicit financing, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with international standards.

Authorities in Cyprus are reportedly collaborating with financial institutions and law enforcement agencies to implement stringent controls and enhance transparency in cryptocurrency transactions. This coordinated approach aims to bolster the integrity of the financial system while safeguarding against emerging threats posed by digital currencies.

The initiative underscores Cyprus’ commitment to upholding regulatory standards and combating financial crime, aligning with broader international efforts to strengthen the resilience of the global financial system. By enhancing oversight and regulatory enforcement in the cryptocurrency sector, Cyprus seeks to mitigate risks associated with money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit activities facilitated through digital assets.

As regulatory frameworks evolve globally, stakeholders in the cryptocurrency industry are urged to adhere to robust compliance measures and cooperate with authorities to uphold the integrity of financial markets. Cyprus’ proactive stance on countering crypto-related terrorism financing signals its determination to foster a secure and transparent financial environment conducive to sustainable economic growth.

With ongoing developments in regulatory oversight and enforcement, Cyprus remains vigilant in monitoring the evolving landscape of digital finance and implementing measures to mitigate potential risks associated with cryptocurrency use. The collaborative efforts underscore a unified approach to combating financial crime and protecting the integrity of global financial systems in the digital age.

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Celo, Chainlink, Hyperlane launch crosschain USDT on OP Superchain

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Celo, Chainlink, Hyperlane, and Velodrome have introduced a cross-chain version of Tether’s USDT on the OP Superchain. The newly launched “Super USDT” is backed by reserves locked on Celo and utilizes Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol and Hyperlane for seamless movement across networks. This innovation aims to enhance liquidity and reduce the fragmentation of stablecoins across the ecosystem.

The initiative aligns with Optimism’s goal of creating a unified, interoperable Superchain. Unlike traditional bridged USDT, which struggles with compatibility, Super USDT is designed to integrate with upcoming interchain standards and future native USDT upgrades. This is expected to simplify stablecoin transactions and increase adoption within the Superchain framework.

Chainlink’s business officer, Johann Eid, emphasized the significance of this development, noting that Chainlink’s Data Feeds have already secured billions in USDT lending markets. With the introduction of Super USDT, users will have greater flexibility in utilizing the stablecoin across multiple Optimism-based chains.

Tether’s USDT remains the dominant stablecoin, accounting for over 61% of the $231 billion stablecoin market. With stablecoin adoption surpassing Visa and Mastercard’s transaction volumes, interoperability solutions like Super USDT are becoming increasingly critical for ensuring seamless and efficient digital asset transfers. Read more.

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SEC Enforcement Division closes investigation into Robinhood Crypto

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The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has closed its investigation into Robinhood Crypto, informing the company on February 21 that no enforcement action would be recommended. This decision comes less than a year after Robinhood received a Wells notice regarding potential securities violations.

Robinhood Markets’ compliance officer, Dan Gallagher, criticized the investigation, stating that the company has always adhered to federal securities laws. The SEC had been examining Robinhood’s crypto operations since issuing the Wells notice in May 2024, which suggested possible enforcement action.

In January 2025, Robinhood reached a $45 million settlement with the SEC over multiple securities law violations. The company admitted to some findings in the SEC’s order but has since urged regulators to move away from a “regulation by enforcement” approach.

This development reflects a broader shift in the SEC’s stance on crypto regulation, with growing calls for clearer guidelines. Some experts speculate that pending enforcement actions against other major crypto firms could also be reconsidered. Read more.

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Hong Kong investment firm’s board gives nod to more Bitcoin buying

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HK Asia Holdings Limited has expanded its Bitcoin holdings to nearly 9 BTC, following board approval for additional purchases. The Hong Kong-based investment firm acquired approximately 7.88 BTC on February 20, spending around $761,705. This comes after its initial 1 BTC purchase a week earlier, which significantly boosted its stock price.

The company financed its Bitcoin acquisition using internal resources, bringing its total investment in the asset to roughly $861,500. The firm emphasized its growing interest in digital assets amid increasing cryptocurrency adoption in the business world.

Following the Bitcoin purchases, HK Asia’s stock price surged by nearly 93% after its first acquisition and continued to rise by 5.7% on February 24. If the trend holds, the stock could surpass its all-time high from June 2019, reflecting strong investor confidence in the firm’s crypto strategy.

HK Asia voluntarily disclosed its Bitcoin acquisitions, even though they remained below the legal threshold requiring disclosure. This move aligns with a broader trend of publicly traded firms incorporating cryptocurrency into their asset holdings.

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