This week in the crypto world brought significant developments—from major M&A moves and regulatory shifts to leadership changes and strategic pivots. Here’s a roundup of the top headlines you need to know.
Coinbase in Advanced Talks to Acquire Deribit
U.S.-based crypto exchange Coinbase is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Deribit, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency derivatives platforms. According to sources familiar with the matter, the Dubai-based exchange has been valued between $4 billion and $5 billion earlier this year.
The potential acquisition marks a major strategic play for Coinbase as it seeks to expand deeper into derivatives, one of the most lucrative segments in crypto trading. This comes as Coinbase’s stock faces bearish pressure, with analysts predicting a possible downside breakout in the near term.
Kraken Acquires NinjaTrader for $1.5 Billion
Coinbase isn’t the only exchange making moves. Kraken has agreed to acquire NinjaTrader, a U.S.-based retail futures trading platform, in a deal valued at $1.5 billion, subject to price adjustments.
The acquisition is expected to transform Kraken into a 24/7 trading platform for both traditional and digital futures, bolstering its existing service offerings and reaching a broader investor base.
Ripple Concludes Four-Year Legal Battle with SEC
In a landmark moment for the crypto industry, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse confirmed that the company’s prolonged legal dispute with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially ended.
“It’s over,” Garlinghouse posted on X (formerly Twitter).
The resolution follows a series of partial legal victories for Ripple and marks a potential turning point in U.S. crypto regulation, possibly signaling a more measured enforcement approach by the SEC going forward.
Gemini Appoints New CFO Amid IPO Rumors
Gemini, the crypto exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has appointed Dan Chen as its new Chief Financial Officer. Chen previously served as Vice President of Capital Markets and Bank Partnerships at Affirm.
The timing of the hire coincides with increasing speculation about Gemini’s plans for an initial public offering (IPO), though the company has yet to confirm the rumors.
South Korea Targets Unregistered Crypto Exchanges
Regulatory pressure is ramping up in Asia, with South Korea’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) preparing to take action against unregistered virtual asset service providers (VASPs) operating within the country.
The move reflects growing global efforts to enforce compliance and protect retail investors in the digital asset space.
Dubai Launches Blockchain Real Estate Pilot
The Dubai Land Department (DLD) has launched the Middle East’s first property tokenization pilot, using blockchain technology to digitize title deeds. The initiative is a major milestone for real estate innovation in the region and highlights Dubai’s commitment to advancing Web3 applications.
ZachXBT Exposes Fraudster Behind Massive BTC Trades
Renowned blockchain investigator ZachXBT has identified William Parker, a convicted fraudster, as the person behind a series of highly profitable crypto derivatives trades. Parker reportedly made $6.8 million by going long on Bitcoin just before President Trump’s strategic crypto reserve announcement.
Tornado Cash Sanctions Lifted
In a surprise move, the U.S. Treasury has lifted sanctions on Tornado Cash, the crypto mixer previously accused of aiding North Korea’s Lazarus Group. The decision marks a notable shift in the U.S. stance toward crypto privacy tools, though the rationale behind the move remains unclear.
Strategy Raises $711M to Keep Buying Bitcoin
Bitcoin investment firm Strategy announced the successful completion of an $711.2 million capital raise through a preferred stock offering. Between March 10-16, the firm purchased 130 BTC at an average price of $82,981 per coin, reaffirming its commitment to long-term accumulation.
LG to Shut Down NFT Platform
South Korean electronics giant LG will close its NFT marketplace, LG Art Lab, after three years of operation. The company stated it will now “shift focus and explore new opportunities,” indicating a reorientation of its digital asset strategy.
Eric Trump Joins Bitcoin-Focused Metaplanet
In a high-profile appointment, Eric Trump, the second son of former President Donald Trump, has joined the advisory board of Metaplanet, a Japanese firm focused on building a robust Bitcoin treasury strategy. CEO Simon Gerovich noted that Trump’s expertise will help expand Metaplanet’s presence in global markets.
Ethereum to Sunset Holesky Testnet
The Ethereum Foundation has announced plans to discontinue the Holesky testnet in September, following validator issues during the Pectra upgrade. The move signals a consolidation of Ethereum’s development environment as it prepares for future upgrades.
From M&A waves and regulatory wins to notable hires and strategic pivots, the crypto sector continues to evolve at breakneck speed. With Ripple’s legal woes behind it, Coinbase and Kraken making major acquisitions, and fresh interest from global players like Dubai and Metaplanet, the industry is shaping up for a transformative 2025.
