### Binance Founder Changpeng Zhao Released
After serving a **four-month prison sentence**, Binance founder **Changpeng Zhao** is set to be released. This news has sent ripples through the cryptocurrency community, raising questions about the implications for the future of Binance and the broader crypto market.

### The Impact on the Crypto Industry
In today’s episode of **CNBC Crypto World**, Kristin Smith from the **Blockchain Association** discusses the potential effects of the upcoming **2024 election** on the cryptocurrency landscape. With regulatory scrutiny increasing, the direction taken by future leadership could significantly impact the industry's growth and sustainability.

![Crypto World](https://208.87.240.203/cryptoworld/?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY25iYy5jb20)

### Daily Trading Updates
Stay tuned for the latest news and **daily trading updates** from the digital currency markets. This segment aims to keep viewers informed about the **ever-changing crypto industry**, featuring **high-profile interviews**, insightful explainers, and unique stories that highlight critical developments in the space.

CNBC Crypto World features the latest news and daily trading updates from the digital currency markets and provides viewers with a look at what's ahead with high-profile interviews, explainers, and unique stories from the ever-changing crypto industry. On today's show, Kristin Smith of Blockchain Association discusses the impact of the 2024 election on the crypto industry.

Binance Founder Changpeng Zhao Released After Four-Month Sentence: What This Means for Crypto

European MP **Sarah Knafo** is advocating for the **European Union** to adopt a **strategic Bitcoin reserve**, arguing it could serve as a safeguard against the risks associated with **centralized digital currencies**. In a recent **video** shared on X, Knafo criticized the **European Central Bank's (ECB)** plans for a centralized digital euro, claiming it threatens **financial freedom** and could lead to **overreach**. Instead, she promotes **Bitcoin** as a **decentralized** solution to counter **inflation** and poor monetary policies.

### Bitcoin as a Strategic Asset
Knafo emphatically stated, "**NO to the digital euro. YES to a strategic reserve of BITCOIN.**" She pointed to **El Salvador** as a prime example of Bitcoin's potential, citing the country’s successful adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender three years ago, which has since resulted in a **doubling of its Bitcoin investment**. This success has reportedly improved economic security and empowered citizens, providing a model that other European nations could follow.

Knafo also referenced changing perceptions in the United States, noting **Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's** description of Bitcoin as **"digital gold"** and **Donald Trump’s** evolving stance on cryptocurrency, highlighting the growing recognition of Bitcoin as a reliable financial asset.

### Protecting Financial Freedom
Knafo raised concerns that the ECB’s push for a digital euro indicates a shift toward excessive **centralized control**. She stated:
> "It is time to change the paradigm. It is time to protect our people from inflation and the poor economic choices of our states. It is time to say no to the totalitarian temptations of the European Central Bank, which wants to impose a digital euro entirely in its hands."
Instead, she argues that Bitcoin provides a decentralized alternative, empowering citizens and promoting **financial independence**. Knafo urged European leaders to adopt a forward-thinking financial strategy, asserting that Bitcoin could help the EU secure its **economic future**, enhance resilience, and uphold the principles of **financial freedom**.

![Bitcoin Reserve EU](https://cryptoslate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/bitcoin-reserve-eu-768x403.jpg)

EU lawmaker urges adoption of Bitcoin reserve to align with shifting global economic trends.

European MP Calls for EU to Embrace Bitcoin Reserves Like El Salvador

Over the past month and a half, **Bitcoin** has dominated headlines, surging nearly **50%** and breaking through the **$100,000** milestone to set a new all-time high near **$107,000**. This performance has placed Bitcoin center stage, while **Ethereum**, the second-largest cryptocurrency, has struggled with year-to-date gains of only **5%**.

### 1. Altcoin Season Could Be Around the Corner
One of the most exciting aspects of cryptocurrency markets is the phenomenon known as **altcoin season**. This period sees alternative cryptocurrencies outperform Bitcoin as profits begin to flow into the broader crypto market. Recent data indicates a potential reversal in Bitcoin's dominance, which could signal the start of an altcoin rally, benefiting Ethereum immensely.

### 2. Growing Interest in Ethereum ETFs
The growing popularity of **spot Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs)** could contribute to Ethereum's performance in 2025. Approved in mid-2024, these financial instruments are gaining traction, with recent trading volumes surpassing those of Bitcoin ETFs, indicating increasing institutional interest.

### 3. Ethereum Looks Undervalued Relative to Its Potential
Despite many cryptocurrencies trading at or near all-time highs, Ethereum remains about **25%** below its **2021 peak** of **$4,800**. This presents a compelling opportunity for investors. With Ethereum being the backbone of **decentralized finance (DeFi)**, hosting over **55%** of all value in the sector, its potential for growth is significant.

### The Case for Ethereum Over Bitcoin Today
While Bitcoin's rise to **$100,000** presents opportunities, it also increases risk. Ethereum offers a more favorable **risk-reward balance** at current prices. Historically, Ethereum has lagged behind Bitcoin early in bull markets but has staged significant rallies during altcoin seasons, suggesting it could be poised for a breakout in 2025.

For investors looking to diversify or find an undervalued cryptocurrency, **Ethereum** stands out as a strong contender, potentially emerging as a leader in its own right.

Over the past month and a half, Bitcoin (BTC 2.64%) has dominated headlines. In a matter of weeks, the world's largest cryptocurrency surged nearly 50%, ultimately breaking through the $100,000 milestone to set a new all-time high near $107,000. This kind of performance has rightly placed Bitcoin center stage. Meanwhile, Ethereum (ETH 2.29%), the second-largest cryptocurrency, has largely taken a backseat.

Is 2025 the Year Ethereum Outshines Bitcoin? Discover the Reasons Why!

### MicroStrategy's Rise to Nasdaq 100

**Tysons, Virginia-based** MicroStrategy is making headlines as it becomes one of the three companies added to the **Nasdaq 100 index**, effective **December 23**. This addition marks a significant milestone for the company, which has seen its **market cap swell to nearly $98 billion** this year, following a remarkable **550% stock rally**.

### The Nasdaq 100 Index

The **Nasdaq 100 index** comprises the **100 largest non-financial companies** listed on the Nasdaq stock market, serving as a benchmark for leading Nasdaq stocks since its introduction in **1985**. Currently, **Marriott International** is the only other D.C.-based company listed in this prestigious index.

### Bitcoin Proxy

In recent years, MicroStrategy has transformed into a **proxy for cryptocurrency**, particularly **Bitcoin**. The company has amassed **Bitcoin holdings worth over $41 billion**, solidifying its position as one of the largest holders of the cryptocurrency globally. Just this past Monday, MicroStrategy announced the purchase of an additional **$1.5 billion in Bitcoin**, marking its **sixth consecutive week** of new acquisitions.

### Implications of Inclusion

With its inclusion in the Nasdaq 100, MicroStrategy will also be part of the **Invesco QQQ Exchange Traded Fund**, which tracks the performance of the index. This addition comes at a time when **Bitcoin** has reached multiple record highs, with its value more than **doubling in 2024**.

### Changes to the Index

As MicroStrategy joins the index, companies like **Illumina, Super Micro Computer, and Moderna** will be removed, reflecting the ongoing evolution of the Nasdaq 100.

![MicroStrategy Logo](https://wtop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Clabaugh_Jeff15-1-112x112.jpg)

Tysons, Virginia-based MicroStrategy is one of three companies being added to the Nasdaq 100 index.

MicroStrategy Joins Nasdaq 100: A Major Milestone for Bitcoin and Tech Stocks

## Genius Group Expands Bitcoin Treasury to a Staggering $20 Million

**Genius Group** (NYSE American: GNS) has made headlines with its latest announcement of expanding its **Bitcoin Treasury** by purchasing an additional **$2 million** in Bitcoin, bringing the total to **214 Bitcoins** at an average price of **$93,586** per Bitcoin. This significant investment is part of the company's **Bitcoin-first strategy**, which commits to holding **90% or more** of its reserves in Bitcoin, with a bold target of **$120 million**.

### Launching Educational Initiatives

In an exciting move, Genius Group is set to launch the **Genius Bitcoin Academy** and **Genius Blockchain Academy** in January **2025**. These academies will offer a range of educational options including **microcourses**, **microdegrees**, and **certifications**. A strategic partnership with **Applied Blockchain** will enhance the educational experience by introducing a new **edtech platform** that ties student credits to **Bitcoin's Satoshis** and offers certifications on the **Lightning Network**.

### Industry Engagement and Sponsorships

Genius Group is also actively sponsoring several major industry events, including:
- **FutureFi Summit**
- **Consensus Hong Kong**
- **Bitcoin Investor Day**
- **Consensus Toronto**

These initiatives are aimed at solidifying the company's leadership position as a **Bitcoin-first**, **AI-powered education** provider while simultaneously building its Bitcoin Treasury. Moreover, the company is exploring various sources of capital to facilitate further Bitcoin purchases.

![Genius Group](https://ml.globenewswire.com/media/ZDJhMGMwNDctZTBkMC00YzZjLTg4NjctMmQ3NjMwMzcxMGRmLTUwMDExMzI3Ng==/tiny/Genius-Group-Limited.png)  

### Strategic Insights

The increase in GNS's Bitcoin holdings to **$20 million** signifies a substantial commitment, positioning the company well above current market prices. The combination of educational initiatives with a strong focus on Bitcoin allows Genius Group to capitalize on the growing cryptocurrency sector. However, the strategy also exposes the company to the inherent volatility associated with cryptocurrency investments.

Stay tuned for more developments as Genius Group continues to innovate in the world of Bitcoin and education!  

![Genius Group Logo](https://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/ti?nf=OTMyMDQ2MCM2NjQxMDYwIzUwMDExMzI3Ng==)

Genius Group doubles down on Bitcoin strategy with $2M purchase, unveils ambitious plans for Bitcoin and Blockchain academies launching 2025 with Applied Blockchain partnership.

Genius Group Boosts Bitcoin Holdings to $20M and Launches Innovative Blockchain Education Programs

Bitcoin’s recent surge to **over $106,000** is facing a potential threat from the rapid advancements in **quantum computing**. Experts warn that if Bitcoin doesn’t adapt its encryption methods, it could be vulnerable to attacks that would compromise its foundational security. According to a **study** from the University of Kent, updating Bitcoin’s protocol to defend against quantum threats could take **over 300 days** of downtime.

### The Quantum Threat to Bitcoin

The study suggests that if Bitcoin were to implement a full protocol update, it would require **76 days** of complete downtime. More realistically, if Bitcoin allocates **25% of its server** for the update while allowing users to continue transactions at a slower pace, the downtime could extend to approximately **305 days**—nearly **10 months**.

Carlos Perez-Delgado, a senior lecturer at the University of Kent and one of the authors of the study, highlighted the staggering costs associated with this downtime. Just **one hour of downtime** can cost businesses around **$500,000**. Therefore, if Bitcoin were to experience **76 days** of downtime, the estimated cost could reach **$912 million**.

### The Urgency of Update

Perez-Delgado emphasizes that the need for a protocol update is urgent due to the **imminent** capabilities of quantum technologies. For instance, Google’s **Willow chip** can theoretically perform computations in a mere **five minutes** that would take the best supercomputers **10 septillion years**. This rapid advancement has raised concerns among experts regarding the security of current encryption systems.

### The Mechanics of Quantum Computing

Quantum computing operates using **qubits**, enabling it to perform multiple operations simultaneously, unlike classical computers that rely on binary bits. This capability poses a significant risk to cryptocurrencies that rely on **public-private key encryption**.

For centralized entities like Google, updating encryption methods may be straightforward. However, for decentralized systems like Bitcoin, the process is not as simple due to the lack of a central authority. With approximately **275 million Bitcoin investors**, coordinating a seamless update becomes a complex challenge.

### Alternative Solutions

While Perez-Delgado does not view his findings as a **death sentence** for Bitcoin, he acknowledges that there are alternative solutions, such as **de-throttling** or increasing the block time, which could help manage a major update. However, these alternatives may also impact the platform’s ability to handle user traffic effectively.

The overarching message is clear: the rise of quantum computing presents a **serious challenge** to Bitcoin’s security, and proactive measures must be taken to safeguard its future.

“Bringing your technology down … can be very, very costly, even if it's on for a few minutes or a few hours.”

Is Quantum Computing a Real Threat to Bitcoin? Here’s What You Need to Know

# BOTS Inc. Partners with Sailo Technologies to Enhance Bitcoin ATM Security

BOTS Inc. (OTC: BTZI) has taken a significant step in **crypto security** by forming a strategic partnership with **Sailo Technologies**, a leading cybersecurity firm from Cyprus. This collaboration positions Bullet Blockchain, BOTS’ subsidiary, as the exclusive U.S. implementer of Sailo's advanced cybersecurity solutions for Bitcoin ATMs.

## Key Features of the Partnership
- **$150,000 Wallet Insurance**: Each crypto wallet will be insured for up to **$150,000**, providing users with peace of mind in a time of rising scams.
- **Real-Time Risk Monitoring**: Users will benefit from real-time monitoring systems that detect potential risks, enhancing overall security.

## Addressing Growing Security Threats
The initiative comes at a crucial time when **cybersecurity threats** are escalating in the cryptocurrency sector. In 2022 alone, hackers stole an alarming **$3.8 billion** in crypto assets. According to the **Federal Trade Commission (FTC)**, losses from Bitcoin ATM scams soared to over **$110 million** in 2023, with **$65 million** lost in just the first half of 2024. The median loss for victims is **$10,000**, with older adults being particularly vulnerable.

## Bullet Blockchain's Unique Position
Bullet Blockchain, through its subsidiary First Bitcoin Capital, holds two essential patents (US9135787B1 and US10332205B1) for Bitcoin ATM operations, positioning the company to enhance security protocols across the industry.  

### Quote from Grok, President of BOTS Inc.
> “Cybersecurity is the cornerstone of trust in the burgeoning world of cryptocurrency. Through Bullet Blockchain's partnership with Sailo Technologies, we at BOTS Inc. are committed to setting a new standard of trust and safety.”

## About Sailo Technologies
Sailo Technologies specializes in delivering cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions for the protection of digital assets. Their technology ensures secure transactions, preventing tracking, currency theft, and hacking through innovative systems like **Know Your Risk™ (KYRTM)**, which provides real-time risk assessments for transactions.

This strategic alliance aims to revolutionize the security of Bitcoin ATM transactions and foster greater consumer confidence in cryptocurrency across the United States.

Exclusive US partnership brings $150K wallet insurance & real-time monitoring to Bitcoin ATMs amid rising crypto scams. Strategic move tackles growing security threats in digital assets.

Revolutionizing Bitcoin ATM Security: BOTS Inc. and Sailo Technologies Unite Against $3.8B Crypto Theft Crisis

### Summary
**Bitcoin-Native infrastructure provider Riema Labs (Nubit)** has unlocked Bitcoin’s true potential with **programmable upgrades** through **BitVM**.

### Introduction
**GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, Dec. 17, 2024** (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a groundbreaking development, Riema Labs Inc. (Nubit) integrates and continues the development of **BitVM**, aiming to build a **trustless world computer** for Bitcoin, enabling open scaling through Bitcoin-native technology.

![A Deep Dive into BitVM](https://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/7c9ed672-361d-4194-9fda-d2312d6e6e61/a-deep-dive-into-bitvm.jpg)

### The Need for Programmability
Bitcoin has long been known as a secure and decentralized digital currency. However, its original design lacked **complex programmability**. While Bitcoin's scripting language allows for basic operations like multi-signature and timelocks, it falls short for advanced applications.

**BitVM**, proposed by Robin Linus, allows for complex computations and **smart contracts** on the Bitcoin network without overhauling its protocol. It expands Bitcoin’s capabilities by enabling limited programmability while respecting its foundational principles.

### Key Features of BitVM
- **Trust-Minimized Bridges**: Utilizing an optimistic challenge model, BitVM allows secure cross-chain BTC transfers without centralized authorities.
- **Enhancing the Lightning Network**: Introducing **zkCoins**, combining the speed of the Lightning Network with enhanced flexibility and security for private, off-chain transactions.
- **Scalability and Security**: BitVM connects external systems to Bitcoin’s robust Proof-of-Work security, enabling advanced features like **programmable slashing**.

### Real-World Applications
Riema Labs (Nubit) is applying BitVM in various innovative ways:
- **Trustless BitVM Bridges**: Facilitating cross-network Bitcoin transfers without centralization.
- **Bitcoin-Native Tokens**: Making assets programmable for DeFi and advanced financial instruments.
- **Enhanced Privacy**: zkCoins provide private transactions with minimal on-chain exposure.

### BitVM vs. OP_CAT: A Philosophical Debate
The potential of **OP_CAT**, a scripting function disabled by Satoshi Nakamoto, could simplify BitVM’s operations. However, it ignites a debate on Bitcoin’s stability versus programmability, reflecting differing philosophies within the community.

### The Future of Programmable Bitcoin
With BitVM, Bitcoin is evolving beyond just a store of value into a **programmable platform** for decentralized applications. Nubit is at the forefront of this transformation, providing developers with tools like the **BitVM IDE** and automated compilers to build secure and efficient applications directly on Bitcoin.

For more on BitVM and its technical specifications, check out the full [BitVM Report](https://108.181.43.67/Tracker?data=RIwXqqOxgvQHUZlNjizd-mKA-Ow2h4UUFTTLIvTsYUAwwvC1srkc9ioIi4ArWLE0s9GT5a5KMjYIi3sqBskQeHuBscr5wgrJBkcliu5Xb6hqtwWp8ZWDi0-ZYe0GJh3Q).

### About Riema Labs Inc. (Nubit)
Founded by UCSB professor **Yu Feng**, Riema Labs Inc. (Nubit) is dedicated to building the **Trustless World Computer for Bitcoin**, enabling scalable and programmable solutions through Bitcoin-native technology.

Bitcoin-Native infrastructure provider Riema Labs (Nubit), has unlocked Bitcoin’s true potential with programmable upgrades with the BitVM....

Binance Founder Changpeng Zhao Released After Four-Month Sentence: What This Means for Crypto

Summary: