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Kraken secures VASP registration in the Netherlands

Kraken has secured its fourth license in Europe, making its compliant services now available in the Netherlands.

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Kraken has secured its fourth license in Europe, making its compliant services now available in the Netherlands.

According to an announcement on Feb. 8, the exchange was granted a virtual asset service provider (VASP) registration from the Dutch Central Bank (DNB), giving it the ability to offer exchange and transfer services of virtual assets, as well as custody and wallet services.

A VASP license is a regulatory framework designed to oversee businesses that provide services related to digital assets. Under the regulation on Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA), entities providing services related to digital assets within the European Union must comply with a range of requirements, including preventing money laundering and terrorist financing and ensuring client information is disclosed and transparent.

The exchange has been targeting key markets in Europe. In addition to the Netherlands, Kraken has VASP licenses in Spain, Italy and Ireland. It also offers crypto services in Belgium through a licensed subsidiary.

In October 2023, the exchange announced the acquisition of a Netherlands-based crypto exchange Coin Meester B.V. (BCM) to expand its market presence in the country. The deal is pending regulatory approval.

Kraken’s regulatory progress in Europe contrasts with its challenges in the United States. The company, based in San Francisco, was sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission in November 2023 for allegedly commingling customer funds and failing to register as a securities exchange, broker, dealer and clearing agency Binance and Coinbase had been sued by the regulator on similar grounds a few months earlier.

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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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