WazirX faces $230M hack, introduction of spot ether ETFs highlight crypto news this week

This week's cryptocurrency news roundup covers major developments. India's largest crypto exchange, WazirX, experienced a $230 million breach on July 18, potentially linked to North Korea, involving a multisig wallet with six signatories. WazirX attributed the incident to a discrepancy between data displayed on Liminal's interface and actual transaction contents during the cyber attack.

In positive news, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has granted initial approval for three out of eight asset managers seeking to launch exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tied to Ether's spot price, set to commence trading soon.

WazirX suffers $230 million hack

WazirX has confirmed a security breach resulting in the theft of $230 million in cryptocurrency assets from one of its multi-signature wallets.

WazirX halts withdrawals after $230 million loss

Following the significant breach, WazirX has temporarily paused withdrawals, impacting nearly half of its reserves.

WazirX and liminal clash over hack responsibility

A dispute has arisen between WazirX and Liminal after the $230 million crypto exploit, with both parties blaming each other for the security lapse.

WazirX files police complaint over massive hack

WazirX has taken legal action by filing a police complaint to address the $230 million cryptocurrency theft and support affected customers.

Spot ether ETFs set to launch amid SEC approval

The SEC has greenlit Ethereum ETFs to commence trading as early as July 23, marking a significant development in crypto investment options.

BitForex prepares to resume withdrawals

Following a regulatory investigation, BitForex plans to reopen for withdrawals, reassuring users of its readiness to resume operations.

Polymarket hits record $116M trading volume

Decentralized prediction market Polymarket saw a historic $116 million in trading volume in the first half of July, driven by speculation on the upcoming US presidential election.

Messari founder ryan selkis resigns

Ryan Selkis, CEO of Messari, stepped down following controversial tweets that sparked backlash. Selkis cited potential harm to the company due to his political rhetoric as the reason for his resignation.

Italy’s banks issue euro digital bond on polygon

Italy's major banks, including Intesa Sanpaolo, participated in a $25 million digital bond issuance on the Polygon blockchain, supported by the Bank of Italy’s Milano Hub as part of an ECB trial.

Kraken partners with Dave Portnoy, pays in Bitcoin

Cryptocurrency exchange Kraken struck a sponsorship deal with Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports, paying a significant portion of the deal in Bitcoin, highlighting mainstream adoption efforts.

BlockFi initiates crypto distributions via Coinbase

Bankrupt crypto lender BlockFi announces plans to start distributing cryptocurrencies through Coinbase this month, notifying eligible clients via email.

State street explores stablecoin and deposit token launch

State Street, a major global financial services provider, is considering the launch of a stablecoin and tokenized deposits, reflecting traditional finance's increasing interest in blockchain and tokenization for improved efficiency and transparency.

Winklevoss twins support trump-aligned super PAC

Gemini co-founders Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss each donate $250,000 to America PAC, a new super PAC aligned with former President Trump, contributing to its $8.75 million fundraising total this quarter from tech and venture capital leaders.