CFA Report Pegs US Crypto Fraud Losses at $80.7B

Nikkei reported that Japan could list crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in 2028, with the Financial Services Agency planning to allow cryptocurrencies as specified assets. This potential debut is later than previously reported, with the regulator yet to confirm the information.

Metaplanet expects a nearly doubled revenue for 2026, attributing success to its Bitcoin Income Generation business and new equity issuance. Despite a Q4 write-down leading to net losses, the company's BTC yield rose significantly over the year.

Ark Invest made its first purchases of Coinbase, Circle Internet, and Bullish stocks since mid-December, adding to its holdings in its ARKK and ARKF ETFs. The company bought shares worth $21.5 million, focusing on stablecoin developer Circle and crypto exchange Coinbase.

Japan is preparing to introduce its first cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds as soon as 2028, allowing retail investors to access digital tokens like Bitcoin. The Financial Services Agency is considering adding cryptocurrencies as specified assets for ETFs, with Nomura Holdings and SBI Holdings in the running to launch Japan's first crypto ETFs.

GameFi tokens like Axie Infinity are surging, with AXS up 131% in a week, contrasting Bitcoin's struggle. Gold and silver hit all-time highs as the S&P 500 faces declines due to geopolitical tensions.

Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan notes a similar trend between the rise of NFTs and smaller coins during the pandemic crypto boom and the current surge in gold and silver prices. Investors are rotating profits between assets, creating a "classic altcoin cycle in metals."

Ryan James Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder accused of running a drug-smuggling operation backed by crypto, was arrested by the FBI in Mexico. The DOJ and Treasury Department claimed Wedding used Tether to fuel his activities, leading to his capture as one of the FBI's top 10 most wanted fugitives.

Binance co-founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao predicts a potential supercycle for Bitcoin in 2026, attributing it to the US government's pro-crypto stance and the trend of other nations following suit. Despite not providing a specific price target, Zhao believes in a positive trajectory for Bitcoin and the overall crypto market.

CertiK, a crypto security firm, plans an IPO after raising $296 million and facing controversies. The CEO remains confident in the decision, emphasizing trust, security, and transparency in the Web3 ecosystem.

UBS Group AG, the world's largest wealth manager, is considering offering crypto investment options to its private banking clients. The bank's assets under management surged by $1.5 trillion after a forced merger with Credit Suisse in 2023.