Here are the **latest updates in crypto and DeFi**: --- ### 🔹 **U.S. Senate Advances Stablecoin Regulation (GENIUS Act)** * The Senate is poised to pass the bipartisan **GENIUS Act**, introducing regulation and consumer protections for stablecoins. The bill prohibits Congress members and families—but not the President—from profiting via stablecoins, prompting criticism from Democrats over a loophole tied to former President Trump’s crypto investments ([theguardian.com][1], [apnews.com][2]). * After Senate approval, it moves to the Republican-led House for further review. --- ### 🔹 **Trump Media Files Bitcoin–Ether ETF** * Trump Media & Technology Group has filed with the SEC for a **75% BTC / 25% ETH ETF**, in partnership with Crypto.com ([businessinsider.com][3]). * This is part of a broader initiative that includes a \$2.5 billion “Bitcoin treasury” plan and other crypto ventures tied to Trump's networks. --- ### 🔹 **Tron to Go Public via Reverse Merger** * Justin Sun’s Tron Group plans to go public in the U.S. by merging with Nasdaq-listed SRM Entertainment. The move includes a \$100 million token acquisition strategy and is seen as another step in mainstream finance integration ([businessinsider.com][3], [wsj.com][4]). --- ### 🔹 **European Crypto Firms Approaching MiCA Licenses** * Gemini, OKX, and Crypto.com have secured operating licenses in Malta under the EU's **MiCA** framework. Luxembourg is expected to license Coinbase soon, though regulators warn some weaker delegate processes could erode trust ([reuters.com][5]). --- ### 🔹 **Stellar Growth in DeFi Lending** * DeFi lending protocols have hit record highs in June, with **TVL** at **\$55 billion** and **active loans** around **\$26.3 billion**. * *Aave* leads with \$16.5 billion in active loans—over 60% market share—prompting concerns over risk concentration ([ainvest.com][6], [beincrypto.com][7]). --- ### 🔹 **Aave v4 Upgrade Incoming** * Developers unveiled **Aave v4**, scheduled to deploy in the coming weeks/months. * It introduces a Unified Liquidity Layer to improve scalability and cross-chain asset movement—potentially boosting AAVE token value toward \$650 ([99bitcoins.com][8]). --- ### 🔹 **Macro Market Drivers** * **Bitcoin** fluctuated around **\$106–108 k**, buoyed by U.S. spot BTC/ETH ETF inflows (\~\$408 M and \$21 M respectively). It dipped slightly amid global instability and tightening expectations around the Fed ([cryptonews.com][9]). * **Solana**, **XRP**, and **Hyperliquid** also saw gains, with XRP and Chainlink boosting the broader CoinDesk 20 Index ([coindesk.com][10]). --- ### 🔹 **Crypto Treasury Trend Expands** * Following Trump Media’s BTC buck acquisition, other public firms are emulating **“bitcoin treasury”** strategies—now collectively holding almost **100,000 BTC** ([reuters.com][11]). --- ### 🔹 **Global Focus: India & CBDC** * In **India**, the Reserve Bank is rolling out the **Digital Rupee** while encouraging harmonious coexistence with crypto/stablecoins. A discussion paper on crypto regulation is expected this month ([economictimes.indiatimes.com][12]). --- ### 🔹 **Institutional Momentum & Infrastructure** * **Circle’s USDC issuer** saw its stock jump 80% since IPO, signaling strong Wall Street involvement in stablecoins and promising regulatory clarity ([fnlondon.com][13]). * European regulators under MiCA increasingly license crypto firms, reflecting growing market maturity ([reuters.com][5]). --- ## Summary * **Stablecoins** are becoming regulated and mainstream, with major growth in circulation and institutional backing. * **DeFi lending and Aave v4** point to a resurgence in decentralized finance. * **Crypto as corporate treasury** is gaining traction among public companies. * **Regulatory clarity** is improving globally—from U.S. and India to the EU. * **Market trends**: BTC/ETH ETFs are pulling in heavy institutional flows, fueling price action; macro conditions remain important.