Ethereum Developer Proposes 6-Second Block Times to Improve Network Speed
Key developments in cryptocurrency technology this week include:
- Ethereum developer proposes reducing block times from 12 seconds to 6 seconds, potentially doubling transaction speed.
- ZKsync's new prover "Airbender" claims to generate Ethereum block proofs in 35 seconds using a single GPU.
- Norway plans a temporary ban on new crypto mining data centers to conserve electricity.
- XRP Ledger releases version 2.5.0 with upgrades such as Token Escrow and Permissioned DEX for enhanced functionality.
Network News
Ethereum Proposal: Core developer Barnabé Monnot suggests reducing Ethereum’s slot time to enhance network speed. The proposal could be part of the Glamsterdam upgrade in 2026, aiming to streamline consensus steps and improve user experience.
ZKsync's Airbender: Matter Labs introduces the "Airbender" cryptographic prover, outperforming competitors by delivering block proofs quickly, which may reduce transaction fees significantly.
Norway's Mining Ban: The Norwegian government plans a ban on new energy-intensive crypto mining data centers, effective Autumn 2025, citing environmental concerns and limited community benefits.
XRP Ledger Update: RippleX releases version 2.5.0 of "rippled," introducing amendments like TokenEscrow and Batch transactions, enhancing its capabilities for DeFi and regulatory compliance.
Other News
- MSTR experiences lowest 10-day realized volatility since adding Bitcoin in 2020; implied volatility sits at 48.33%.
- Coinbase price target raised to $510 by Bernstein, citing its role as a central player in the crypto space despite broader market sentiment.
Regulatory and Policy
- U.S. senators propose principles for domestic crypto markets, focusing on stablecoin legislation and regulatory frameworks.
- Texas establishes a publicly-funded bitcoin reserve with a $10 million initial appropriation, becoming the first U.S. state to do so.
Upcoming Events
- June 24-26: Permissionless, Brooklyn
- June 30-July 3: EthCC, Cannes
- July 16-18: Web3 Summit, Berlin
- Sept. 22-28: Korea Blockchain Week, Seoul
- Oct. 1-2: Token2049, Singapore
- Nov. 17-22: Devconnect, Buenos Aires
- Dec. 11-13: Solana Breakpoint, Abu Dhabi
- Feb. 10-12, 2026: Consensus, Hong Kong
- May 5-7, 2026: Consensus, Miami