Telegram's Chinese Crypto Scam Craze Is Back

Elliptic's report highlights the rise of Tudou Guarantee as the successor to Huione Guarantee, the world's largest illicit marketplace shut down by Telegram. The criminal network's survival was ensured by acquiring a 30% stake in Tudou Guarantee, allowing continuity of operations for scammers offering illicit services.

A 27-year-old Tel Aviv man was arrested on espionage charges for completing tasks for Iranian operatives in exchange for crypto payments. The suspect engaged in missions like photographing sensitive locations and spray-painting politically motivated graffiti, as announced by the Israel Security Agency and Tel Aviv District Police.

Cryptocurrency prices surged after President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, with Bitcoin rising 5% to over $105,000. The leading cryptocurrency had dipped below $100,000 after U.S. forces bombed Iran's nuclear sites but quickly recovered over the weekend.

Midnight Network, a blockchain focusing on privacy and data protection, will distribute NIGHT tokens to users of major networks like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana through its Glacier Drop event. The tokens will be claimable by holders of specific native tokens, with a gradual vesting period.

ECD Automotive Design, Inc. has secured $500 million to acquire and store a significant amount of Bitcoin in its corporate treasury, following a trend seen among various public companies. The Florida-based car restoration company signed an equity facility with ECDA Bitcoin Treasury LLC for this purpose.

Circle's stock price surged to an all-time high of over $298 before dropping back down, with shares currently trading around $250. The company's market capitalization of nearly $63 billion now surpasses that of its stablecoin, USDC, valued at almost $61.3 billion.

Bitcoin and the broader crypto market showed resilience as oil prices fell after U.S. airstrikes against Iran. The S&P 500 rose to 6,006 points, and the Federal Reserve maintained rates at 4.25%-4.5%. Gold near $3,388 per oz as oil's dip eases inflation concerns.

Coinbase's stock surged over 23% after obtaining a MiCA license and the Senate passing the GENIUS Act. Analyst Mark Palmer raised the price target to $421, citing favorable regulatory changes and increased stablecoin adoption.

Trump Media and Technology Group plans to repurchase up to $400 million of its common stock, emphasizing it won't affect the $2.3 billion allocated for Bitcoin. The board's decision reflects confidence in the company's future and strategic direction, with repurchases to be made at their discretion on the open market.