Sony Launches Soneium Blockchain Amid Memecoin Controversy

Key Developments in Cryptocurrency

  • Sony launches Soneium: Sony introduced its blockchain platform Soneium, built on Optimism's OP Stack, aimed at connecting Web2 and Web3 audiences. Controversy arose as the platform blocked memecoin trading, leading to allegations of censorship.
  • Bubblemaps introduces BMT: Bubblemaps announced a new token (BMT) and an "Intel Desk" for community-driven investigations, enhancing its analytics service for tracking token ownership and suspicious patterns.
  • Babylon enhances Bitcoin interoperability: Babylon Labs is developing a trust-minimized bridge with Cosmos using the BitVM2 paradigm to enable Ethereum-style smart contracts on Bitcoin, paving the way for zero-knowledge technology.
  • Bitfinex recovery efforts: U.S. prosecutors seek court approval to return 94,643 bitcoins recovered from the 2016 Bitfinex hack to the exchange, following the sentencing of the hacker.
  • Bitcoin ETFs record performance: Bitcoin ETFs had record debuts in 2024, with analysts predicting further growth in 2025.
  • Corporate Bitcoin adoption: Four new U.S.-listed companies have added Bitcoin treasuries, indicating growing interest among corporations.
  • Regulatory updates: New FDIC chair suggests easing banking rules for crypto companies; judges demand SEC clarify its stance on crypto regulations.

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