Crypto Biz: X payment system, Block moves into Bitcoin mining and more

As an experienced financial analyst, I find these recent developments in the world of cryptocurrencies and fintech quite intriguing. Social media platform X’s decision to expand its payment system into a comprehensive financial ecosystem, with features similar to Venmo and Apple Pay, is a significant step towards becoming a one-stop solution for users. This could potentially attract more economic activity within the platform and disrupt traditional financial services.


Social media platform X is planning to expand its offerings by integrating various financial services. According to Christopher Stanley, X’s payments chief, the upcoming features of the platform will resemble the convenience of using both Venmo and Apple Pay combined, as Stanley announced in a post on April 22.

While Jack Dorsey’s company, Block, is pushing forward with its cryptocurrency projects under the umbrella of financial technology, they are specifically focusing on Bitcoin (BTC) mining. This endeavor aims to tackle significant industry hurdles, such as the extensive need for ASIC mining rigs.

As a researcher studying market trends on Wall Street, I’ve come across an intriguing development: the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is considering adopting 24-hour trading, modeled after cryptocurrency markets. This shift could bring enhanced liquidity for traders, allowing them to buy and sell stocks around the clock. However, it might also introduce heightened volatility for retail investors, as market fluctuations could occur outside of regular business hours.

As a cryptocurrency market analyst, I’d like to shed light on some noteworthy developments from the past week. X is set to roll out its new payment system soon. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) has been considering shifting to round-the-clock trading, which could bring significant changes to the traditional financial market. Additionally, Block, formerly known as Square, has announced plans to delve into Bitcoin mining. The total investment volume in crypto assets continues to show robust growth.

X payments details released: App to become your bank account

Christopher Stanley, the payments chief at X, unveiled an expansive roadmap for the company’s payment system in his latest announcement. X intends to broaden its tipping feature into a full-fledged financial infrastructure. To begin with, it will mirror Venmo, enabling users to transfer funds within the application. In the future, the functionality is expected to develop further and encompass aspects commonly linked to bank accounts, such as earning interest on saved funds. Ultimately, X aims to transform into a system that permits users to purchase goods and make in-store payments, thereby fostering economic activity within its ecosystem, according to Stanley’s plans.

NYSE gauges interest in 24/7 stock trading like crypto: Report

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is considering expanding its trading hours to operate around the clock, akin to cryptocurrency markets. To assess market sentiment towards this shift and gather suggestions for managing potential price fluctuations during off-hours, the NYSE’s data analysis team has distributed a questionnaire. At present, prominent exchanges including the NYSE, Nasdaq, and the Chicago Board Options Exchange function between 9:30 am and 4:00 pm Eastern Time, from Monday to Friday.

Block announces development of “full Bitcoin mining system”

Block, the payments firm formerly named Square, unveiled plans for a novel Bitcoin mining system. This undertaking arises from Block’s achievement of a three-nanometer chip, tailored for BTC mining, following an earlier five-nanometer prototype in May 2023. Block intends to provide both individual mining chips and comprehensive mining systems to promote the dispersal of Bitcoin mining, as stated. The company champions a decentralized mining methodology and encourages feedback from the mining sector regarding matters including procurement of miners, maintenance, transparency, and software complications.

Crypto investment products see outflows for second consecutive week — CoinShares

Over the past two weeks, investments in digital asset funds have seen a downturn, with $206 million withdrawn between April 15 and 19. Bitcoin ETFs were hit hardest, with investors pulling out a substantial $192 million in anticipation of the halving event. Ether funds also experienced a decrease, with $34 million withdrawn, marking six consecutive weeks of negative inflows. Moreover, blockchain equities reported an 11th successive week of losses, totaling $9 million. The outflows are believed to be driven by investor anxiety over rising US interest rates, making safer, less volatile financial instruments more attractive than the unpredictable cryptocurrencies. Recent economic indicators and inflation figures suggest that the Federal Reserve’s plans for easing monetary policies by mid-2024 might not materialize as expected.

Each Thursday, you’ll receive a weekly update, the Crypto Biz, bringing you insightful information about the business world of blockchain and cryptocurrencies straight to your email inbox.

Read More

2024-04-27 00:16