The September events that could move markets

Welcome to the On the Margin Newsletter, brought to you by Ben Strack and Casey Wagner. We hope our US readers are enjoying Labor Day. Here’s what you’ll find in today’s abbreviated edition:

The September events that could move markets — from a debate, to a rate cut. 
What’s going on in the euro-backed stablecoin market? 

Significant September in store?

If August was a vacation-laden month within the so-called “summer doldrums,” it seems September could be the opposite.

Though September is historically a bad month for bitcoin, several potential crypto market-moving events this month could change that. 

Let’s start with the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ jobs report…

Read more on Blockworks

LATEST: Qatar’s Financial Sector Embraces Digital Assets with New Regulations

Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has announced a progressive new digital assets regime, positioning Doha as a leader in cryptocurrency regulation. Developed by the QFC Authority and Regulatory Authority, this framework features robust tokenization processes, legal recognition of digital property rights, smart contracts, and stringent custody protocols. Mirroring free economic zones like those in the UAE, QFC operates with unique legal and fiscal structures, encouraging 100% foreign ownership and profit repatriation.

This initiative aligns with Qatar’s Third Financial Sector Strategy launched last November, aimed at fostering economic growth through emerging technologies. According to Qatar Central Bank Governor, His Excellency Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani, these regulations mark a significant advancement in the country’s financial landscape. The framework, crafted with inputs from over 37 organizations globally, ensures a secure, transparent digital asset market, bolstering consumer and investor confidence.

Source

Competitors eye a slice of Solana’s pie

Howdy!

Happy Labor Day to all our US-based readers. To everyone else, happy Monday.

I will personally be celebrating my own position as a laborer by eating several hotdogs. Wouldn’t have it any other way. That being said:

Competitors eye a slice of Solana’s pie

Looking at price, DeFi metrics, and vibes, Solana has arguably lifted its stock the most of any smart contract blockchain this market cycle. 

But while Solana may be riding high for the moment, there are several competitors waiting in the wings. In conversations with multiple industry sources, Sui, Sei, Aptos, Monad, and Base all came up as potential Solana competitors — alongside Solana’s longtime foil,…

Read more on Blockworks

Daily US Bitcoin ETFs Net Flow Analysis (As of September 02, 2024)

The daily net flow for U.S. Bitcoin ETFs as of September 2, 2024, reveals a relatively stable landscape with selective adjustments, underscoring a resilient market despite minor fluctuations.

BlackRock’s IBIT ETF maintained a steady position with no net inflow or outflow, holding a robust 357,509 BTC. Similarly, Fidelity’s FBTC and other funds like ARK’s ARKB, Grayscale’s secondary fund BTC, VanEck’s HODL, Valkyrie’s BRRR, and Franklin Templeton’s EZBC also showed no changes in their holdings.

However, some funds experienced slight outflows. Grayscale’s GBTC saw a reduction of 392 BTC, bringing its holdings down to 226,862 BTC. Bitwise’s BITB also recorded a decrease of 284 BTC, and Invesco Galaxy’s BTCO fund decreased by 118 BTC.

Overall, the total holdings across all ETFs amounted to 912,372 BTC, with a net decrease of 794 BTC valued at approximately $53.2 million. This day-to-day data highlights the ongoing commitment of investors to the Bitcoin market, reflecting confidence and sustained interest in cryptocurrency as a valuable asset class.

Disclaimer: Market capitalizations and data can vary in real-time. The information provided here is intended purely for educational purposes and should not, under any circumstances, be construed as financial advice.

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LATEST: Japan’s SBI Collaborates with Metaplanet on Bitcoin Trading Services

Metaplanet, often called the “Japanese MicroStrategy,” has announced a new strategic partnership with SBI Group’s crypto investment service, SBI VC Trade. Metaplanet CEO Simon Gerovich revealed on social media that the collaboration, effective immediately, will focus on enhancing Bitcoin trading and custody solutions. The partnership marks a significant step in Metaplanet’s strategy to expand its Bitcoin holdings, leveraging SBI’s expertise to ensure tax-efficient custody and the use of Bitcoin as financing collateral.

SBI’s support will enable Metaplanet to enhance its financial flexibility through innovative tools and strategies. The Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed SBI Holdings subsidiary, SBI VC Trade, will provide crucial trading, storage, and operational assistance. With services including a new tax exemption on crypto asset benefits, Metaplanet is set to strengthen its position in the cryptocurrency market, bolstering its treasury with advanced financial assets and operational support from a trusted partner.

Bitcoiners and Wobblies: Labor Day Edition

Recently, I’ve been reading about the foundations of the American Labor Movement. Specifically, the birth of the Industrial Workers of the World and a group called the Wobblies, a nickname given to IWW Members. At its peak, the IWW had over 150,000 members in 1917, with global memberships and significant power and influence. While the IWW was a socialist leaning organization in theory, many of its core values were intertwined into the DNA of the American Labor movement, and was undeniably pivotal to the development of organized labor and a strong working class following the industrial revolution. The parallels between some of the IWW’s origins and ideologies and Bitcoin are…

Read more on BitcoinMagazine

LATEST:OKX Secures Major Payment Institution License in Singapore

Crypto exchange OKX has made a significant stride in the global cryptocurrency market by securing a full major payment institution (MPI) license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore. This achievement allows OKX to offer expanded services such as cross-border money transfers and digital payment tokens without the typical volume restrictions faced by other payment institutions.

Simultaneously, OKX Singapore has strengthened its leadership by appointing Gracie Lin, a former MAS regulator, as its CEO. Lin’s extensive regulatory experience and understanding of Singapore’s financial landscape are expected to drive the company’s strategic initiatives in the region. She emphasized that the MPI license is a crucial step in fortifying Singapore’s position as a central hub for digital assets.

Under this new license, OKX is now authorized to surpass the monthly transaction limit of 6 million Singaporean dollars for multiple payment services. This regulatory milestone is poised to enhance the exchange’s offerings, providing users with more flexibility and access to the thriving digital economy.

Source

LATEST: Cardano Moves to Decentralized Governance with Chang Hard Fork Launch

Cardano has marked a significant milestone by initiating the first phase of its Chang hard fork, spearheaded by Ethereum co-founder Charles Hoskinson. This groundbreaking move transitions the blockchain from a centralized governance model to a pioneering token-based decentralized system. Over the next 90 days, the platform will evolve into a community-driven governance structure, guided initially by an interim committee.

The interim phase focuses on ensuring security and continuity, setting the stage for delegate representatives to register and campaign. This process will culminate in the establishment of a robust governance framework, including a constitutional committee, by early 2025. This structural shift represents a major step forward in empowering ADA holders, placing decision-making directly in their hands.

Reflecting on Cardano’s journey, Hoskinson expressed pride in the blockchain’s growth from a mere concept to a leading crypto ecosystem. Despite recent market challenges, today marks a historic turning point where every ADA stakeholder gains an equal voice in shaping the blockchain’s future and its global impact.