20 August 2025

SoFi Partners with Lightspark to Enable Bitcoin Lightning Remittances

SoFi Utilizes Bitcoin Lightning for Remittances: SoFi Technologies partners with Lightspark to enable real-time international remittance payments via Bitcoin's Lightning Network. Users can send USD and recipients will receive local currency, with transparent exchange rates and fees. The service is expected to launch later this year.
Bitlayer Launches YBTC on Solana: Bitcoin DeFi project Bitlayer introduces its bitcoin-backed token YBTC on the Solana blockchain, aiming to enhance yield opportunities for BTC holders while ensuring security and interoperability within decentralized finance applications.
Valantis Acquires stHYPE: Valantis acquires Staked Hype (stHYPE), which holds $180 million in total value locked. The acquisition aims to bolster liquid staking operations on Hyperliquid, where liquid staking represents a significant portion of the DeFi ecosystem.
Hyperbeat Secures $5.2M Funding: Hyperbeat raises $5.2 million in seed funding led by ether.fi Ventures and Electric Capital to develop yield infrastructure for the Hyperliquid decentralized exchange, enhancing accessibility for users.

SkyBridge Capital plans to tokenize $300 million of hedge funds on Avalanche network, utilizing ERC-3643 standard for operational support.
Thumzup Media announces an all-stock deal to acquire Dogehash Technologies, pivoting into crypto mining, valuing the transaction at $153.8 million.

The crypto industry opposes proposed changes to the GENIUS Act that could favor traditional banks over stablecoin issuers, urging lawmakers to maintain existing provisions.
U.S. Federal Reserve Vice Chair Michelle Bowman advocates for clearer regulatory frameworks to support digital asset integration within banking systems.