@ 31a4605e:cf043959

No sistema Bitcoin, a proteção e a posse dos fundos são asseguradas por um modelo criptográfico que usa chaves privadas e públicas. Esses componentes são fundamentais para a segurança digital, permitindo que os usuários administrem e protejam seus ativos de maneira descentralizada. Esse processo elimina a necessidade de intermediários, assegurando que somente o legítimo proprietário tenha acesso ao saldo vinculado a um endereço específico na blockchain ou timechain.

Chaves privadas e públicas são partes de um sistema de criptografia assimétrica, onde dois códigos distintos, mas matematicamente ligados, são utilizados para garantir a segurança e a veracidade das transações.

Chave Privada = É um código secreto, normalmente apresentado como uma longa sequência de números e letras.

Funciona como uma senha que dá ao proprietário o controle sobre os bitcoins ligados a um endereço específico.

Deve ser mantida em total sigilo, pois qualquer pessoa que a tenha pode movimentar os fundos correspondentes.

Chave Pública = É matematicamente derivada da chave privada, mas não permite que a chave privada seja descoberta.

Funciona como um endereço digital, semelhante a um número de conta bancária, podendo ser compartilhada livremente para receber pagamentos.

Serve para confirmar a autenticidade das assinaturas geradas com a chave privada.

Juntas, essas chaves asseguram que as transações sejam seguras e verificáveis, dispensando a necessidade de intermediários.

O funcionamento das chaves privadas e públicas baseia-se na criptografia de curva elíptica. Quando um usuário quer enviar bitcoins, ele usa sua chave privada para assinar digitalmente a transação. Essa assinatura é exclusiva para cada operação e demonstra que o remetente possui a chave privada relacionada ao endereço de envio.

Os nós da rede Bitcoin checam essa assinatura utilizando a chave pública correspondente, garantindo que:

A assinatura é válida.

A transação não foi alterada desde que foi assinada.

O remetente tem a propriedade legítima dos fundos.

Se a assinatura for aceita, a transação é registrada na blockchain ou timechain e se torna irreversível. Esse procedimento protege os fundos contra fraudes e gastos duplicados.

A segurança das chaves privadas é um dos pontos mais importantes do sistema Bitcoin. Perder essa chave significa perder permanentemente o acesso aos fundos, pois não há nenhuma autoridade central capaz de recuperá-la.

Boas práticas para proteger a chave privada incluem:

Armazenamento offline: longe de redes conectadas à internet, diminuindo o risco de ataques cibernéticos.

Carteiras de hardware: dispositivos físicos dedicados para armazenar chaves privadas de forma segura.

Backup e redundância: manter cópias de segurança em locais seguros e distintos.

Criptografia adicional: proteger arquivos digitais que contêm chaves privadas com senhas fortes e criptografia.

Ameaças comuns incluem:

Phishing e malware: ataques que tentam enganar os usuários para obter acesso às chaves.

Roubo físico: no caso de chaves guardadas em dispositivos físicos.

Perda de senhas e backups: que pode resultar na perda definitiva dos fundos.

O uso de chaves privadas e públicas dá ao proprietário controle total sobre seus fundos, eliminando intermediários como bancos ou governos. Esse modelo coloca a responsabilidade de proteção nas mãos do usuário, o que representa tanto liberdade quanto risco.

Diferente de sistemas financeiros tradicionais, onde instituições podem reverter transações ou congelar contas, no sistema Bitcoin, a posse da chave privada é a única prova de propriedade. Esse princípio é frequentemente resumido pela frase: "Not your keys, not your coins" (Se não são suas chaves, não são suas moedas).

Essa abordagem fortalece a soberania financeira, permitindo que indivíduos guardem e movam valor de maneira independente e sem censura.

Apesar de sua segurança, o sistema de chaves também apresenta riscos. Se uma chave privada for perdida ou esquecida, não existe como recuperar os fundos associados. Isso já levou à perda de milhões de bitcoins ao longo dos anos.

Para reduzir esse risco, muitos usuários utilizam frases-semente (seed phrases), que são uma lista de palavras usadas para restaurar carteiras e chaves privadas. Essas frases devem ser guardadas com o mesmo cuidado, pois também podem ser usadas para acessar os fundos.

Resumindo, as chaves privadas e públicas são a base da segurança e da propriedade no sistema Bitcoin. Elas asseguram que somente os verdadeiros proprietários possam mover seus fundos, promovendo um sistema financeiro descentralizado, seguro e resistente à censura.

No entanto, essa liberdade acarreta grandes responsabilidades, exigindo que os usuários adotem práticas severas para proteger suas chaves privadas. A perda ou comprometimento dessas chaves pode levar a consequências irreversíveis, ressaltando a importância de educação e preparação ao usar o sistema Bitcoin.

Assim, o modelo de chaves criptográficas não apenas melhora a segurança, mas também representa a essência da independência financeira proporcionada pelo Bitcoin.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

A rede Bitcoin é formada por uma infraestrutura descentralizada feita de dispositivos chamados nós. Esses nós têm um papel crucial na validação, verificação e manutenção do sistema, assegurando a segurança e a integridade do blockchain ou timechain. Ao contrário dos sistemas tradicionais, onde uma autoridade central controla as operações, a rede Bitcoin requer a colaboração de milhares de nós pelo mundo, promovendo descentralização e transparência.

Na rede Bitcoin, um nó é qualquer computador que está conectado ao sistema e participa do armazenamento, validação ou distribuição de informações. Esses dispositivos rodam o software do Bitcoin e podem operar em diferentes níveis de participação, desde tarefas básicas de transmissão de dados até a validação total de transações e blocos.

Existem dois tipos principais de nós:

Nós completos (full nodes):

Armazenam uma cópia total do blockchain ou timechain.

Validam e verificam todas as transações e blocos de acordo com as regras do protocolo.

Asseguram a segurança da rede ao rejeitar transações inválidas ou tentativas de fraude.

Nós leves (light nodes):

Armazenam somente partes do blockchain ou timechain, não a estrutura inteira.

Confiam em nós completos para obter dados sobre o histórico de transações.

São mais rápidos e menos exigentes em termos de recursos, mas dependem de terceiros para validação completa.

Os nós conferem se as transações enviadas seguem as regras do protocolo, como assinaturas digitais válidas e ausência de gastos duplos.

Somente transações válidas são enviadas para outros nós e incluídas no próximo bloco.

Os nós completos mantêm uma cópia atualizada de todo o histórico de transações da rede, garantindo integridade e transparência e se houver discrepâncias, os nós seguem a cadeia mais longa e válida, evitando manipulações.

Os nós transmitem informações de transações e blocos para outros nós na rede. Esse processo assegura que todos os participantes estejam sincronizados e atualizados.

Como a rede Bitcoin é composta por milhares de nós independentes, é quase impossível que um único agente controle ou modifique o sistema.

Os nós também protegem contra ataques ao validar informações e barrar tentativas de fraudes.

Os nós completos são muito importantes, pois atuam como auditores independentes. Eles não precisam de terceiros e podem verificar todo o histórico de transações diretamente.

Ao manterem uma cópia completa do blockchain ou timechain, esses nós permitem que qualquer pessoa valide transações sem depender de intermediários, promovendo clareza e liberdade financeira.

Além disso, os nós completos:

Reforçam a resistência à censura: Nenhum governo ou entidade pode excluir ou alterar dados registrados no sistema.

Preservam a descentralização: Quanto mais nós completos existirem, mais segura e forte será a rede.

Aumentam a confiança no sistema: Os usuários podem confirmar de forma independente se as regras estão sendo seguidas.

Apesar de seu valor, operar um nó completo pode ser difícil, pois exige espaço de armazenamento, processamento e largura de banda. À medida que o blockchain ou timechain cresce, os requisitos técnicos aumentam, o que pode dificultar a participação de usuários comuns.

Para resolver esse problema, a comunidade busca sempre soluções, como melhorias no software e aumento na escalabilidade, para facilitar o acesso à rede sem prejudicar a segurança.

Resumindo, os nós são a base da rede Bitcoin, desempenhando funções importantes na validação, verificação e distribuição de transações. Eles garantem a descentralização e a segurança do sistema, permitindo que os participantes operem de forma confiável sem depender de intermediários.

Particularmente, os nós completos têm um papel crucial na proteção da integridade do blockchain ou timechain, tornando a rede Bitcoin resistente a censura e manipulação.

Embora operar um nó possa exigir recursos técnicos, seu efeito na preservação da liberdade financeira e na confiança do sistema é inestimável. Assim, os nós continuam sendo elementos essenciais para o sucesso e a durabilidade do Bitcoin.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

The banking giant is exploring an expansion of its blockchain services, focusing on digital payments and currencies.

JPMorgan Chase has filed a new trademark application for the name “JPMD.” The filing was submitted on June 15 to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

The application, filed by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., covers a broad range of services related to digital assets and blockchain technology. These include the issuance of digital currencies, electronic payment processing, and financial custody services — all of which suggest a possible new stablecoin initiative for JPMorgan.

Experience with JPM Coin

This move wouldn’t be JPMorgan’s first foray into blockchain-based finance. The bank already operates JPM Coin, a dollar-pegged stablecoin used to enable instant transactions between institutional clients. The token runs on Quorum, a private blockchain network developed in-house by JPMorgan and based on Ethereum’s technology.

The registration of the JPMD trademark comes as JPMorgan and other major U.S. banks are considering a collaborative stablecoin project through their jointly owned entities: Early Warning Services and The Clearing House.

Similarly, corporations like Walmart and Amazon are mulling the creation of their own stablecoins.

The post JPMorgan files trademark for ‘JPMD’: a new stablecoin on the horizon for the American bank appeared first on Atlas21.

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

O blockchain ou timechain é uma tecnologia nova que mudou a maneira como dados e transações são registrados e armazenados. Sua estrutura descentralizada e muito segura proporciona transparência e confiança, tornando-o um sistema amplamente utilizado para operações digitais. Essa tecnologia é importante para a criação de sistemas financeiros e registros digitais que não podem ser alterados.

O que é o blockchain ou timechain?

O blockchain ou timechain é basicamente um livro-razão digital que é distribuído, projetado para registrar transações de forma sequencial e inalterável. Ele é composto por blocos ligados em uma cadeia, cada um contendo um conjunto de informações, como transações, marcas de tempo (timestamp) e um identificador único chamado hash.

Esses blocos estão organizados em ordem cronológica, o que garante a integridade dos registros ao longo do tempo. O termo timechain, usado como sinônimo, enfatiza essa característica temporal do sistema, onde cada bloco é ligado ao anterior, formando uma cadeia de eventos que não pode ser manipulada.

A validação dos blocos no blockchain ou timechain é realizada por meio de um processo chamado mineração. Os participantes da rede, conhecidos como mineradores, utilizam computadores potentes para resolver problemas matemáticos complexos. Esse processo, chamado de prova de trabalho, é necessário para validar as transações e adicionar um novo bloco à cadeia.

Cada bloco contém:

Transações verificadas - Um conjunto de operações aprovadas pela rede.

Hash do bloco anterior - Um código único que conecta o novo bloco ao anterior, garantindo a continuidade e a segurança.

Nonce - Um número utilizado no processo de mineração para gerar o hash do bloco.

Uma vez que um bloco é validado, ele é adicionado permanentemente ao blockchain ou timechain, e todos os nós (computadores participantes) na rede atualizam suas cópias desse livro-razão.

Um dos principais benefícios do blockchain ou timechain é a segurança oferecida por seu modelo descentralizado. Ao contrário de sistemas tradicionais que dependem de servidores centrais, ele distribui seus dados entre milhares de computadores em todo o mundo.

A imutabilidade é garantida pelo uso de criptografia e pela estrutura encadeada dos blocos. Qualquer tentativa de alterar um bloco exigiria modificar todos os blocos que vêm depois, o que seria praticamente impossível devido ao alto poder computacional necessário.

Além disso, o uso de algoritmos criptográficos torna o sistema resistente a fraudes e manipulações. Esse modelo proporciona confiança, mesmo em ambientes sem intermediários ou autoridades centrais.

O blockchain ou timechain é transparente, porque qualquer pessoa pode acessar o histórico completo das transações registradas na rede. Isso cria um sistema que pode ser auditado e confiável.

No entanto, a privacidade dos participantes é protegida, pois as transações são registradas por meio de endereços digitais anônimos, sem revelar identidades pessoais. Esse equilíbrio entre transparência e privacidade torna o sistema seguro e flexível.

O uso do blockchain ou timechain vai além das transações financeiras. Ele é útil em áreas como contratos inteligentes, registro de bens, cadeia de suprimentos e votação online. Sua capacidade de criar registros permanentes e verificáveis permite soluções novas em várias indústrias.

Por exemplo, em sistemas de rastreamento de produtos, o blockchain ou timechain assegura a veracidade dos dados, anotando cada fase do processo de produção e distribuição. Isso diminui fraudes e aumenta a eficiência operacional.

Vantagens e DesafiosEntre as principais vantagens do blockchain ou timechain, podem ser destacadas:Descentralização: Eliminação de intermediários, reduzindo custos e aumentando a eficiência.

Segurança - Proteção contra fraudes e ataques digitais.

Transparência - Registro público e verificável de todas as transações.

Imutabilidade - Garantia de que os dados não podem ser modificados após serem registrados.

No entanto, desafios ainda precisam ser enfrentados, como a escalabilidade, pois o crescimento contínuo da rede pode necessitar de maior capacidade de armazenamento e processamento. Além disso, questões regulatórias e a adoção em larga escala requerem melhorias contínuas.

Resumindo, o blockchain ou timechain é uma tecnologia inovadora que muda a maneira como dados e transações são armazenados, assegurando segurança, transparência e eficiência. Sua descentralização elimina a dependência de intermediários, tornando-o um sistema confiável e resistente a manipulações.

Apesar dos desafios técnicos e regulatórios, o blockchain ou timechain continua a se desenvolver, demonstrando seu potencial em várias áreas além do setor financeiro. Sua promessa de transparência e imutabilidade já está moldando o futuro dos sistemas digitais, firmando-se como uma base essencial para a economia moderna e para a confiança digital.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Flash Releases Free Bitcoin Invoicing Tool with No Fees, KYC, or Custody

Flash, a Bitcoin payment platform, just announced it has launched Flash Invoicing, a completely free, non-custodial, and KYC-free Bitcoin invoicing tool. Designed for freelancers, the platform allows users to send professional invoices without platform fees, identity checks, or third party custody.

According to Deel, a crypto payments company for freelancers, Bitcoin is the most used cryptocurrency in the world for payments. Despite this growth, many freelancers continue to use basic methods such as pasting Bitcoin addresses into PDFs or emails. Some rely on custodial platforms that deduct fees or require identity verification, which can affect both earnings and data privacy.

“We’ve seen too many people paste BTC addresses into documents and call it invoicing,” said the CEO of Flash Pierre Corbin. “It’s messy. It’s risky. And it’s time for something better.” 

Flash Invoicing Features:

• 0% platform fees: no subscriptions or commission
• Non-custodial: Bitcoin goes straight to the user’s wallet
• No KYC: users maintain full privacy
• Professional output: branded PDFs and secure payment links
• Integrated dashboard: manage payments, clients, and revenue
• Works with Flash ecosystem: including Stores, Donations, Paywalls, and POS

Many Bitcoin invoicing tools charge a percentage per transaction or require a subscription. As a result, freelancers often lose part of their income simply to issue an invoice and receive payment. Flash is aiming to solve this issue.

“Freelancers work hard enough. The last thing they need is a platform skimming off their earnings,” said Corbin. “That’s why we dropped our fee from 1.5% to 0% — and launched the first invoicing tool that’s truly free, without compromising on privacy or control.”

Flash Invoicing allows users to accept Bitcoin payments without relinquishing control, privacy, or revenue. It is integrated with the broader Flash suite, enabling users to manage invoicing alongside features such as setting up stores, receiving donations, or gating premium content.

“As a freelancer myself, I love using the Flash invoicing feature,” stated a freelancer & Flash user. ”It keeps all my clients in one place, allows me to easily edit invoices and track payments. Much more professional than sending a lightning address in the footer of a PDF invoice.”

This post Flash Releases Free Bitcoin Invoicing Tool with No Fees, KYC, or Custody first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Oscar Zarraga Perez.

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

Nos últimos anos, o Bitcoin tem sido frequentemente comparado ao ouro, ganhando o nome de "ouro digital". Essa comparação ocorre porque ambas as formas de valor têm características em comum, como escassez, durabilidade e aceitação mundial. Contudo, o Bitcoin também representa uma novidade tecnológica que muda a ideia de dinheiro e investimento, se destacando como uma alternativa moderna e eficaz ao ouro físico.

Uma das razões pelas quais o Bitcoin é comparado ao ouro é a sua escassez programada. Enquanto o ouro é um recurso natural limitado, cuja oferta depende da mineração, o Bitcoin tem um teto máximo de 21 milhões de unidades, definido em seu código. Esse teto faz com que o Bitcoin seja protegido contra a inflação, ao contrário das moedas tradicionais, que podem ser criadas sem limites pelos bancos centrais.

Essa característica traz um valor duradouro, parecido com o ouro, já que a oferta limitada ajuda a manter o poder de compra ao longo do tempo. Com o aumento da procura por Bitcoin, sua quantidade reduzida reforça seu papel como reserva de valor.

Outro aspecto que aproxima o Bitcoin do ouro é a durabilidade. Enquanto o ouro resiste à corrosão e pode ser guardado por séculos, o Bitcoin é um ativo digital protegido por criptografia avançada e armazenado na blockchain — um livro-razão imutável e descentralizado.

Além disso, o Bitcoin é mais fácil de transportar do que o ouro. Mover ouro físico envolve custos e segurança, tornando o transporte complicado, principalmente em transações internacionais. Por outro lado, o Bitcoin pode ser enviado digitalmente para qualquer parte do mundo em minutos, com taxas baixas e sem intermediários. Essa vantagem tecnológica torna o Bitcoin mais eficaz para um mundo globalizado e digital.

A segurança é outra característica que o Bitcoin e o ouro têm em comum. O ouro é difícil de falsificar, fazendo dele uma reserva de valor confiável. Da mesma forma, o Bitcoin usa protocolos de criptografia que asseguram transações seguras e protegidas contra fraudes.

Além disso, todas as transações feitas com Bitcoin são registradas na blockchain, fornecendo um nível de transparência que o ouro físico não oferece. Qualquer pessoa pode revisar as transações na rede, aumentando a confiança e a rastreabilidade.

EconômicaHistoricamente, o ouro tem sido utilizado como proteção contra a inflação e crises econômicas. Durante momentos de instabilidade, os investidores buscam o ouro como uma maneira de preservar seu patrimônio. O Bitcoin, por sua vez, está surgindo como uma alternativa digital com o mesmo propósito.

Em países com alta inflação ou instabilidade política, o Bitcoin tem sido usado como uma proteção contra a desvalorização das moedas locais. Sua natureza descentralizada impede que governos confisquem ou controlem diretamente o ativo, garantindo maior liberdade financeira para os usuários.

Apesar de suas semelhanças com o ouro, o Bitcoin ainda enfrenta desafios. Sua volatilidade é muito maior, o que pode causar incertezas a curto prazo. No entanto, muitos especialistas afirmam que essa volatilidade é uma característica comum em ativos novos e tende a diminuir com o tempo, à medida que a aceitação cresce e o mercado se desenvolve.

Outro desafio é a regulamentação. Enquanto o ouro já é reconhecido globalmente como um ativo financeiro, o Bitcoin ainda enfrenta resistência de governos e instituições financeiras, que procuram formas de controlá-lo e regulá-lo.

Resumindo, o Bitcoin, muitas vezes chamado de "ouro digital", oferece uma nova forma de valor que combina as melhores características do ouro com a eficiência e a inovação da tecnologia digital. Sua escassez planejada, segurança criptográfica, portabilidade e resistência à censura fazem dele uma alternativa viável para preservar riqueza e realizar transações no mundo moderno.

Mesmo com muita volatilidade, o Bitcoin está se firmando como uma reserva de valor e como um ativo de proteção contra crises econômicas. Assim, ele representa não apenas uma evolução do sistema financeiro, mas também um símbolo da mudança para uma economia digital descentralizada e global.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ e5cfb5dc:0039f130

はりまメンタルクリニック：GIDの大手そう。丸の内線ならパムくんちが近い。

わらびメンタルクリニック：GIDの大手そう？公式サイトには影もかたちも

ナグモクリニック：SRS手術までしてるところ。GID精神科外来が月1第1木曜日だけ？

狭山メンタルクリニック：距離・時間的にはまま近い。サイトの記述が思想的にちょとあやしげ。新患受付がだいぶ先。GIDは専門外か？

川島領診療所：オンライン診療あり！強迫性障害や美容皮膚科をやっている。雰囲気よさそうなところ。GIDは専門外か？

Jこころのクリニック：電車いっぽんなので楽。GIDは専門外か？

ハッピースマイルクリニック：オンライン診療あり！GIDは専門外か？

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

This article was originally published on dev.to by satshacker.

Alright, you’ve built a useful and beautiful website, tool or app. However, monetization isn’t a priority and you’d rather keep the project free, ads-free and accessible?

Accepting donations would be an option, but how? A PayPal button? Stripe? Buymeacoffe? Patreon?

All of these services require a bank account and KYC verification, before you can send and receive donations – not very convenient.

If we only could send value over the internet, with just one click and without the need of a bank account…

Oh, hold on, that’s bitcoin. The decentralized protocol to send value across the globe. Money over TCP/IP.

In this article, we’ll learn how anyone can easily add a payment button or donation widget on a website or app.

Let’s get into it.

Introduction

Bitcoin is digital money that you can send and receive without the need for banks. While bitcoin is extremely secure, it’s not very fast. The maximum transactions per second (TPS) the network can handle is about 7. Obviously that’s not useful for daily payments or microtransactions.

If you’d like to dig deeper into how bitcoin works, a great read is “Mastering Bitcoin” by Andreas Antonopoulos.

Bitcoin vs Lightning

If you’d like to receive bitcoin donations “on-chain” all you need is a bitcoin wallet. You simply display your bitcoin address on your site and that’s it. You can receive donations.

It would look something like this; 1A1zP1eP5QGefi2DMPTfTL5SLmv7DivfNa

Instead of showing the actual bitcoin address, you can also turn it into a QR code.

However, this is not a recommended solution. Using static on-chain addresses has two major downsides. It lowers privacy for you and your donnors and it’s a UTXO disaster because many small incoming transactions could beocme hard to consolidate in the future.

For donations and small transactions, the Lightning Network is the better option. Lightning allows for instant settlement with fees only a fraction of a cent.

Similar to bitcoin, you have the choice between non-custodial and custodial wallets. This means, either you have full control over your money or the wallet provider has.

Option 1: Lightning Address

With the lightning address feature, you an easily receive donations to an email like address.

It looks like this: yourname@wallet.com

Many wallets support lightning addresses and make it easy to create one. Then, you simple add the address to your donation page and you’re ready to receive tips.

You can also add a link link as in lightning:yourname@wallet.com and compatible lightning wallets and browser wallets will detect the address.

How to get a Lightning Address Fast

Option 2: Lightning Donation Widgets

If you like to take it a step further, you can also create a more enhanced donation checkout flow. Of course you could programm something yourself, there are many open source libraries you can build upon. If you want a simple plug-and-play solution, here are a couple of options:

Name

Type

Registration

SatSale

Self-hosted

No KYC

BTCPay Server

Self-hosted

No KYC

Pay With Flash

Widget

Email

Geyser Fund

Widget

Email

The Giving Block

Hosted

KYC

OpenNode

Hosted

KYC

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SatSale (GitHub)

Lightweight, self-hosted Bitcoin/Lightning payment processor. No KYC.

Ideal for developers comfortable with server management. Simple to deploy, supports both on-chain and Lightning, and integrates with WooCommerce.

---

BTCPay Server

Powerful, open-source, self-hosted processor for Bitcoin and Lightning. No KYC.

Supports multiple currencies, advanced features, and full privacy. Requires technical setup and maintenance. Funds go directly to your wallet; great for those seeking full control.

---

Pay With Flash

Easiest for indie hackers. Add a donation widget with minimal code and no KYC. Payments go directly to your wallet for a 1.5% fee.

Setup Steps:

1. Sign up at PayWithFlash.com
2. Customize your widget in the dashboard
3. Embed the code:

1. Test to confirm functionality

Benefits:

• Minimal technical skills required
• Supports one-time or recurring donations
• Direct fund transfer, no intermediaries

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Geyser Fund

Crowdfunding platform. Widget-based, connects to your wallet, email registration.Focused on Bitcoin crowdfunding, memberships and donations.

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The Giving Block

Hosted, KYC required. Integrates with fiat and crypto, best for nonprofits or larger organizations.

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OpenNode

Hosted, KYC required. Accept Bitcoin payments and donations; supports conversion to fiat, suitable for businesses and nonprofits.

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Summary

• Fast, low-code setup: Use Pay With Flash or Geyser Fund.
• Privacy and control: Choose SatSale or BTCPay Server (requires technical skills).
• Managed, compliant solutions: The Giving Block or OpenNode.

Choose based on your technical comfort, privacy needs, and project scale.

I hope this article helped you. If you added bitcoin donations, share your link in the comments and I will send you a few satoshis maybe

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

O surgimento do Bitcoin trouxe uma nova visão para o conceito de dinheiro, desafiando o sistema financeiro convencional baseado em moedas fiduciárias. Enquanto as moedas fiduciárias, como o real, o dólar e o euro, são amplamente usadas e reconhecidas como métodos de troca, o Bitcoin representa uma inovação digital que propõe descentralização e autonomia financeira. Embora ambos desempenhem funções básicas como meio de troca e reserva de valor, suas diferenças principais estão na maneira como são emitidos, geridos e transacionados.

Uma das principais distinções entre o Bitcoin e as moedas fiduciárias é a maneira como são emitidos e administrados. As moedas fiduciárias são emitidas por bancos centrais, que têm o poder de regular sua quantidade em circulação. Esse modelo permite a aplicação de políticas monetárias, como o aumento da oferta de dinheiro para estimular a economia ou a diminuição para controlar a inflação. No entanto, essa capacidade também pode resultar na desvalorização da moeda, se for emitida em excesso.

O Bitcoin, por outro lado, tem um sistema de emissão totalmente descentralizado. Ele é criado por meio de um processo chamado mineração, no qual computadores resolvem problemas matemáticos complexos para validar transações na rede. Além disso, a oferta total de bitcoins é limitada a 21 milhões de unidades, tornando-o um ativo deflacionário, ou seja, sua escassez pode aumentar seu valor ao longo do tempo. Essa limitação contrasta fortemente com a natureza ilimitada da impressão de moedas fiduciárias.

Moedas fiduciárias são centralizadas, o que significa que sua emissão e controle são decididos por autoridades governamentais. Isso também implica que transações feitas com essas moedas passam por intermediários, como bancos, que podem aplicar taxas e limites, além de estarem sujeitos a regulamentações e auditorias.

O Bitcoin, por sua vez, é descentralizado. Ele opera em uma rede peer-to-peer, onde as transações são verificadas por participantes chamados mineradores e registradas em um livro público conhecido como blockchain. Essa descentralização elimina a necessidade de intermediários, tornando o Bitcoin mais resistente à censura e ao controle governamental. Isso também proporciona maior transparência, já que qualquer pessoa pode verificar as transações na rede.

Outra diferença importante está na maneira como as transações são feitas. Com moedas fiduciárias, as transações geralmente dependem de bancos ou sistemas de pagamento, que podem impor restrições de horários e taxas altas, especialmente para transferências internacionais.

O Bitcoin, por outro lado, permite transferências diretas entre pessoas, em qualquer lugar do mundo e a qualquer momento, sem a necessidade de intermediários. Isso torna o sistema mais acessível, especialmente para aqueles que não possuem contas bancárias ou vivem em países com sistemas financeiros restritivos. Além disso, as taxas de transação do Bitcoin podem ser menores do que as taxas cobradas por bancos tradicionais.

As moedas fiduciárias proporcionam segurança baseada em leis governamentais e no sistema bancário, mas os usuários precisam confiar nesses intermediários. O Bitcoin, em contrapartida, oferece um alto nível de segurança através de criptografia avançada. As carteiras digitais, que guardam bitcoins, são protegidas por chaves privadas, assegurando que somente o dono possa acessá-las.

No entanto, a privacidade funciona de maneira diferente. Transações em moedas fiduciárias normalmente estão ligadas à identidade do usuário, enquanto o Bitcoin oferece um certo nível de anonimato, já que os endereços das carteiras não requerem identificação pessoal. Ainda assim, todas as transações são públicas e registradas no blockchain, o que pode ser um ponto de monitoramento para autoridades.

O valor das moedas fiduciárias é sustentado pela confiança no governo que as emite e na economia do país. Por outro lado, o Bitcoin não é apoiado por nenhum governo ou ativo físico. Seu valor é definido pela oferta e demanda no mercado, fazendo com que seja altamente volátil. Embora essa volatilidade apresente um risco, também atrai pessoas que veem o Bitcoin como uma possibilidade de valorização a longo prazo.

Resumindo, o Bitcoin e as moedas fiduciárias diferem significativamente em sua estrutura, controle e funcionalidade. Enquanto as moedas fiduciárias são controladas por governos e dependem de intermediários, o Bitcoin oferece descentralização, transparência e liberdade financeira. Apesar de sua volatilidade e alguns desafios relacionados à regulamentação, o Bitcoin representa uma alternativa nova ao sistema financeiro tradicional.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ df478568:2a951e67

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

O Bitcoin foi criado como algo muito além de uma moeda digital; ele é uma ideia inovadora que questiona os fundamentos do sistema financeiro convencional. A ideia por trás de sua criação, apresentada pelo enigmático Satoshi Nakamoto, se concentra em dois princípios principais: descentralização e liberdade financeira. Essas noções refletem um esforço para devolver o controle do dinheiro às pessoas, eliminando intermediários e diminuindo a influência de governos e grandes instituições financeiras.

A descentralização é a base do Bitcoin. Diferente das moedas comuns, que são emitidas e geridas por bancos centrais e governos, o Bitcoin funciona em uma rede peer-to-peer. Isso quer dizer que não existe uma autoridade central ou entidade única que controla a moeda. Ao invés disso, todas as transações são validadas e registradas em um livro-razão público chamado blockchain ou timechain, mantido por milhares de computadores em várias partes do mundo.

Essa estrutura descentralizada garante que o Bitcoin seja resistente à censura e imune a manipulações de políticas monetárias, como a impressão excessiva de dinheiro, que pode causar inflação. Além disso, ela elimina a necessidade de intermediários, como bancos, permitindo transações diretas entre usuários. Isso é especialmente valioso em cenários onde o sistema bancário tradicional é inacessível ou composto, como em áreas remotas ou países em crise econômica.

A liberdade financeira promovida pelo Bitcoin é outro elemento transformador. Em sistemas tradicionais, os indivíduos dependem de terceiros, como bancos ou instituições financeiras, para acessar, guardar e transferir dinheiro. Essas entidades podem impor restrições, como limites de saque, altas taxas de transferência ou até mesmo bloquear contas. Com o Bitcoin, o usuário possui controle total sobre seus fundos através de chaves privadas (uma espécie de senha que possibilita o acesso à sua carteira digital).

Além disso, o Bitcoin oferece uma solução acessível para bilhões de pessoas no mundo que estão fora do sistema bancário. Segundo dados do Banco Mundial, cerca de 1,4 bilhão de adultos não têm acesso a contas bancárias, mas muitos têm acesso à internet ou a smartphones. O Bitcoin permite que essas pessoas participem da economia global sem a necessidade de instituições intermediárias.

Outro ponto importante é a resistência à censura. Em regimes autoritários ou situações de instabilidade política, governos podem confiscar ou bloquear os bens dos cidadãos. O Bitcoin, por ser descentralizado e operar em uma rede global, não pode ser controlado ou confiscado de maneira arbitrária, oferecendo uma camada extra de proteção financeira para indivíduos em situações de risco.

A visão do Bitcoin também abrange a formação de um sistema financeiro mais justo e transparente. O blockchain ou timechain, ao registrar todas as transações de modo público e imutável, diminui a chance de fraudes e corrupção. Além disso, a quantidade limitada de 21 milhões de bitcoins, programada no código da moeda, favorece um modelo deflacionário que contrasta com a expansão ilimitada de moedas fiduciárias. Isso confere ao Bitcoin a capacidade de ser uma reserva de valor estável no longo prazo.

Apesar de sua visão promissora, o caminho para alcançar completamente essa liberdade financeira não é livre de desafios. A volatilidade do preço do Bitcoin, preocupações regulatórias e barreiras tecnológicas ainda são obstáculos a serem superados. No entanto, essas dificuldades também criam oportunidades para inovação e para o fortalecimento do ecossistema ao longo do tempo.

Resumindo, a visão por trás do Bitcoin representa uma interrupção do sistema financeiro centralizado, oferecendo às pessoas mais autonomia, transparência e segurança sobre seus recursos financeiros. Ele não é apenas uma tecnologia, mas um movimento que busca empoderar os indivíduos, especialmente aqueles excluídos ou prejudicados pelos modelos econômicos tradicionais. Ao promover descentralização e liberdade financeira, o Bitcoin abre caminho para um futuro onde o dinheiro realmente pertence às pessoas, e não às instituições.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

Bank run on every crypto bank then bank run on every "real" bank.

— ODELL (@ODELL) December 14, 2022

Good morning.

It looks like PacWest will fail today. It will be both the fifth largest bank failure in US history and the sixth major bank to fail this year. It will likely get purchased by one of the big four banks in a government orchestrated sale.  

March 8th - Silvergate Bank
March 10th - Silicon Valley Bank
March 12th - Signature Bank
March 19th - Credit Suisse
May 1st - First Republic Bank
May 4th - PacWest Bank?

PacWest is the first of many small regional banks that will go under this year. Most will get bought by the big four in gov orchestrated sales. This has been the playbook since 2008. Follow the incentives. Massive consolidation across the banking industry. PacWest gonna be a drop in the bucket compared to what comes next.

First, a hastened government led bank consolidation, then a public/private partnership with the remaining large banks to launch a surveilled and controlled digital currency network. We will be told it is more convenient. We will be told it is safer. We will be told it will prevent future bank runs. All of that is marketing bullshit. The goal is greater control of money. The ability to choose how we spend it and how we save it. If you control the money - you control the people that use it.

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

Will not live in a pod.
Will not eat the bugs.
Will not get the chip.
Will not get a blue check.
Will not use CBDCs.

Live Free or Die.

Why did Elon buy twitter for $44 Billion? What value does he see in it besides the greater influence that undoubtedly comes with controlling one of the largest social platforms in the world? We do not need to speculate - he made his intentions incredibly clear in his first meeting with twitter employees after his takeover - WeChat of the West.

To those that do not appreciate freedom, the value prop is clear - WeChat is incredibly powerful and successful in China.

To those that do appreciate freedom, the concern is clear - WeChat has essentially become required to live in China, has surveillance and censorship integrated at its core, and if you are banned from the app your entire livelihood is at risk. Employment, housing, payments, travel, communication, and more become extremely difficult if WeChat censors determine you have acted out of line.

The blue check is the first step in Elon's plan to bring the chinese social credit score system to the west. Users who verify their identity are rewarded with more reach and better tools than those that do not. Verified users are the main product of Elon's twitter - an extensive database of individuals and complete control of the tools he will slowly get them to rely on - it is easier to monetize cattle than free men.

If you cannot resist the temptation of the blue check in its current form you have already lost - what comes next will be much darker. If you realize the need to resist - freedom tech provides us options.

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

Bank run on every crypto bank then bank run on every "real" bank.

— ODELL (@ODELL) December 14, 2022

Good morning.

It looks like PacWest will fail today. It will be both the fifth largest bank failure in US history and the sixth major bank to fail this year. It will likely get purchased by one of the big four banks in a government orchestrated sale.  

March 8th - Silvergate Bank
March 10th - Silicon Valley Bank
March 12th - Signature Bank
March 19th - Credit Suisse
May 1st - First Republic Bank
May 4th - PacWest Bank?

PacWest is the first of many small regional banks that will go under this year. Most will get bought by the big four in gov orchestrated sales. This has been the playbook since 2008. Follow the incentives. Massive consolidation across the banking industry. PacWest gonna be a drop in the bucket compared to what comes next.

First, a hastened government led bank consolidation, then a public/private partnership with the remaining large banks to launch a surveilled and controlled digital currency network. We will be told it is more convenient. We will be told it is safer. We will be told it will prevent future bank runs. All of that is marketing bullshit. The goal is greater control of money. The ability to choose how we spend it and how we save it. If you control the money - you control the people that use it.

---

If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

Carl Rickertsen completely exits his position in Strategy as insiders sell $864 million worth of stock.

As reported by Protos, Carl Rickertsen, a member of Strategy’s board of directors, has fully liquidated his entire shareholding for over $10 million.

Rickertsen’s decision to completely exit his Strategy position marks a sharp shift from his previous investment stance. In 2022, the executive had shown confidence in the company by investing $700,000 in MSTR shares.

On June 13, 2022, Rickertsen purchased $608,000 worth of MSTR stock at $152 per share. Since then, the stock has rallied 152%. However, by 2023, the director had already sold half of his 4,000-share position.

Rickertsen’s approach to managing his holdings has become increasingly aggressive in recent years. Since joining the board in 2019, he has adopted a strategy of immediately liquidating any stock options received.

One example of this tactic occurred on June 2, when he acquired and sold 26,390 MSTR shares on the same day.

As of June 5 this year, Rickertsen reported zero vested Strategy shares, marking the end of his equity involvement with the company.

Rickertsen’s situation is not an isolated case within Strategy. Data from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reveals a controversial picture. According to information gathered by secform4.com, over the past five years, total insider sales have exceeded purchases by $864 million. This imbalance in insider transactions could raise questions about executives’ confidence in the company’s future.

The post Strategy director liquidates all his MSTR shares appeared first on Atlas21.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

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"Privacy is necessary for an open society in the electronic age. Privacy is not secrecy.  A private matter is something one doesn't want the whole world to know, but a secret matter is something one doesn't want anybody to know. Privacy is the power to selectively reveal oneself to the world." - Eric Hughes, A Cypherpunk's Manifesto, 1993

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Privacy is essential to freedom. Without privacy, individuals are unable to make choices free from surveillance and control. Lack of privacy leads to loss of autonomy. When individuals are constantly monitored it limits our ability to express ourselves and take risks. Any decisions we make can result in negative repercussions from those who surveil us. Without the freedom to make choices, individuals cannot truly be free.

Freedom is essential to acquiring and preserving wealth. When individuals are not free to make choices, restrictions and limitations prevent us from economic opportunities. If we are somehow able to acquire wealth in such an environment, lack of freedom can result in direct asset seizure by governments or other malicious entities. At scale, when freedom is compromised, it leads to widespread economic stagnation and poverty. Protecting freedom is essential to economic prosperity.

The connection between privacy, freedom, and wealth is critical. Without privacy, individuals lose the freedom to make choices free from surveillance and control. While lack of freedom prevents individuals from pursuing economic opportunities and makes wealth preservation nearly impossible. No Privacy? No Freedom. No Freedom? No Wealth.

Rights are not granted. They are taken and defended. Rights are often misunderstood as permission to do something by those holding power. However, if someone can give you something, they can inherently take it from you at will. People throughout history have necessarily fought for basic rights, including privacy and freedom. These rights were not given by those in power, but rather demanded and won through struggle. Even after these rights are won, they must be continually defended to ensure that they are not taken away. Rights are not granted - they are earned through struggle and defended through sacrifice.

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

A rede Bitcoin foi feita para ser segura, descentralizada e resistente à censura. Contudo, à medida que seu uso cresce, surge um desafio importante: a escalabilidade. Esse termo se refere à habilidade da rede de gerenciar um número crescente de transações sem afetar o desempenho ou a segurança. Esse desafio provocou o dilema de velocidade, que envolve equilibrar a rapidez nas transações com a preservação da descentralização e da segurança que o blockchain ou timechain proporciona.

Escalabilidade é a habilidade de um sistema aumentar seu desempenho para atender a demandas maiores. No caso do Bitcoin, isso implica processar um maior número de transações por segundo (TPS) sem comprometer os princípios básicos da rede.

Atualmente, a rede Bitcoin processa cerca de 7 transações por segundo, um número visto como baixo em comparação com sistemas tradicionais, como redes de cartões de crédito, que podem processar milhares de transações por segundo. Esse limite decorre diretamente do tamanho fixo dos blocos (1 MB) e do tempo médio de 10 minutos para a criação de um novo bloco no blockchain ou timechain.

O dilema de velocidade surge da necessidade de equilibrar três elementos essenciais: descentralização, segurança e velocidade.

O trilema do blockchain ou timechain:

Descentralização: a rede Bitcoin é composta por milhares de nós independentes, que verificam e validam transações. Aumentar os blocos ou torná-los mais rápidos poderia elevar os requisitos computacionais, dificultando a participação de nós menores e afetando a descentralização.

Segurança: a segurança vem do processo de mineração e da validação dos blocos. Aumentar a velocidade das transações poderia comprometer a segurança, pois diminuiria o tempo necessário para certificar cada bloco, tornando a rede mais propensa a ataques.

Velocidade: a necessidade de confirmar transações rapidamente é crucial para que o Bitcoin seja utilizado como meio de pagamento no cotidiano. Porém, priorizar a velocidade pode afetar tanto a segurança quanto a descentralização.

Esse dilema exige soluções equilibradas para expandir a rede sem sacrificar suas características essenciais.

Soluções para o problema de escalabilidade

Várias soluções têm sido sugeridas para solucionar os desafios de escalabilidade e velocidade na rede Bitcoin.

Otimização on-chain

Segregated witness (SegWit): implementado em 2017, o SegWit separa os dados de assinatura das transações, permitindo uma utilização mais eficiente do espaço nos blocos e aumentando a capacidade sem modificar o tamanho do bloco.

Aumento do tamanho do bloco: algumas propostas sugeriram aumentar o tamanho dos blocos para permitir mais transações por bloco. Contudo, isso poderia tornar o sistema mais centralizado, pois exigiria maior poder computacional.

Soluções off-chain

Lightning Network: uma solução de segunda camada que permite transações rápidas e de baixo custo fora da blockchain ou timechain principal. Essas transações são liquidadas depois na rede principal, mantendo a segurança e a descentralização.

Canais de Pagamento: ermitem transações diretas entre dois usuários sem a necessidade de registrar cada ação na rede, diminuindo a congestão.

Sidechains (cadeias paralelas): propostas que criam redes paralelas ligadas ao blockchain ou timechain principal, permitindo mais flexibilidade e capacidade de processamento.

Embora essas soluções tragam melhorias significativas, elas também apresentam problemas. A Lightning Network, por exemplo, depende de canais de pagamento que precisam de liquidez inicial, limitando sua adoção geral. O aumento do tamanho dos blocos pode tornar o sistema mais suscetível à centralização, impactando a segurança da rede.

Além disso, soluções de segunda camada podem exigir confiança extra entre os participantes, o que pode enfraquecer os princípios de descentralização e resistência à censura defendidos pelo Bitcoin.

Outro ponto importante é a necessidade de adoção em larga escala. Mesmo com avanços tecnológicos, as soluções só serão eficazes se forem amplamente usadas e aceitas pelos usuários e desenvolvedores.

Resumindo, a escalabilidade e o dilema de velocidade representam um dos maiores desafios técnicos para a rede Bitcoin. Embora a segurança e a descentralização sejam essenciais para manter os princípios originais do sistema, a necessidade de transações rápidas e eficientes torna a escalabilidade um tema urgente.

Soluções como o SegWit e a Lightning Network têm mostrado avanços promissores, mas ainda enfrentam barreiras técnicas e de adoção. O equilíbrio entre velocidade, segurança e descentralização continua sendo um objetivo central para o futuro do Bitcoin.

Assim, a busca por inovação e melhoria constante é essencial para que o Bitcoin mantenha sua relevância como uma rede confiável e eficiente, capaz de sustentar o crescimento e a adoção global sem comprometer seus valores fundamentais.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

The new communication protocol aims to improve the industry with measurable advantages in terms of efficiency and security.

A new study conducted by Hashlabs, in collaboration with the SRI (Stratum V2 Reference Implementation) team and figures like Matt Corallo, Alejandro De La Torre and others reveals how the Stratum V2 protocol can increase miner profitability compared to the current Stratum V1 standard, used for over a decade.

Speaking to Atlas21, Gabriele Vernetti, Stratum V2 maintainer, declared:

“This first case study demonstrates how much Stratum V2 can help miners as well, securing and increasing their profits, in addition to the rest of the network. It’s just a first study aimed at demonstrating how decentralization can be aligned with the profit dynamics typical of the mining sector.

In the future we will also focus on the benefits for mining pool operators, who can benefit from the protocol’s efficiency to lower their operating costs (such as those for bandwidth used by their servers).

The feedback has been very positive: this first study was a joint work with various market players, including miners and mining pool operators. As SRI we want to continue working together with the entire community as done in this case, becoming a reference point for all actors interested in innovating the Bitcoin mining field”.

The research, based on controlled tests with two identical ASIC S19k Pro, with stock firmware, demonstrates that Stratum V2 can increase net profits by up to 7.4%. For an industry that often operates with 10% margins, this could represent a substantial competitive advantage.

The V2 protocol reduces various inefficiencies that plague the current system. The latency in block switching, that is the waiting time created when a miner must change block template after a new block has been mined on the network, goes from 325 milliseconds to just 1.42 milliseconds, a speed 228 times higher. This translates to about 4.9 hours of completely wasted hash power less per year.

Another problem of modern mining concerns “stale shares” – proofs of work that arrive too late to be remunerated, often due to network latency or inefficient communication. However, not all stale shares depend on inefficiency problems. On average, about 2% are rejected for expected reasons, such as when the share doesn’t reach the minimum difficulty required by the pool. This value is considered normal in the sector. The remaining 98%, instead, is caused by avoidable delays. With Stratum V1, miners lose between 0.1% and 0.2% of their computing power this way. Stratum V2 with Job Declaration completely eliminates this waste, provided that the miner and the pool node have the same level of connectivity. This step could translate into a net profit increase of up to 2% by fully adopting Stratum V2 with Job Declaration.

In the Stratum V2 protocol, the Job Declaration Client (JDC) is software that allows miners to receive mining jobs directly from their local Bitcoin node, that is the block templates to work on. The JDC communicates directly with the miner’s local node, receiving updated data for new block construction and immediately sending them to the mining software via Stratum V2. This allows miners to receive jobs in real time from their own node, without having to wait for them from the pool, reducing latency and the risk of working on obsolete jobs. Furthermore, if the pool allows it, miners can build custom templates choosing which transactions to include in the block.

The research also highlights an often overlooked aspect: the loss of transaction fees. With the Stratum V1 protocol, miners lose about 0.75% of potential fees for each block due to the delay in receiving new jobs. Considering that about 52,560 blocks are mined each year, this loss per block adds up to a total of about 74 bitcoins per year, equivalent to over $8 million at current prices.

Beyond economic advantages, Stratum V2 solves a critical vulnerability of the current system: hashrate hijacking. The V1 protocol doesn’t encrypt communications, allowing attackers to intercept and steal up to 2% of computing power without the miner noticing. The new protocol eliminates this risk through end-to-end encryption and authentication.

According to the study, by reducing latency, optimizing share sending and improving security, Stratum V2 enables a potential net profit increase of 7.4%, derived exclusively from technical improvements.

The post Stratum V2 increases profits by 7.4%: “The study shows that profit and decentralization can coexist”, says Vernetti, SV2 maintainer appeared first on Atlas21.

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

French lawmakers are proposing Bitcoin mining as a solution to optimize the national electricity system and make use of surplus energy.

A group of French parliamentarians has introduced an amendment that could turn the country into a European hub for Bitcoin mining, strategically leveraging its energy production capacity.

The legislative proposal aims to assess how mining could be integrated into the French energy system — the largest in Europe — to optimize the management of electricity produced by nuclear power plants.

The amendment to the law on “National Programming and Regulatory Simplification in the Energy Sector” calls on the government to conduct a thorough evaluation of the potential of Bitcoin mining. The initiative represents a pragmatic approach to addressing the issue of excess energy, a key topic for France’s nuclear industry.

France’s energy system, powered by nuclear for over 70% of its needs, often generates electricity surpluses that require efficient management. The proponents of the proposal see mining as an ideal solution to absorb this excess, transforming a potential waste into an economic resource.

The operational flexibility of mining farms offers a unique competitive advantage: machines can be quickly turned on and off based on production and consumption peaks, dynamically adapting to the needs of the electrical grid. This feature makes them particularly suitable for installation near power plants, even in the most remote areas of the country.

The parliamentary proposal highlights how mining could contribute to the revitalization of abandoned industrial sites, creating new opportunities for economic development under the supervision of public authorities.

Lawmakers emphasize the various benefits of this strategy: reducing negative pricing in wholesale markets, relieving the workload on nuclear plants by avoiding frequent modulation cycles that accelerate equipment wear, and absorbing surplus energy that would otherwise go to waste.

The French Association for the Development of Digital Assets (ADAN) collaborated in drafting the amendment, contributing technical expertise and industrial insight to the project. The organization emphasized how low-carbon Bitcoin mining could help strengthen the resilience of the national electricity grid.

The parliamentary report notes that mining in France could represent “an activity tailored to the constraints of the electrical system, absorbing surplus energy and reducing environmental impact” by using power that would otherwise be lost.

The post France considers Bitcoin mining: parliamentary proposal for managing nuclear energy appeared first on Atlas21.

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

Russian authorities uncover 95 Bitcoin mining machines hidden inside a truck stealing electricity from a village.

Law enforcement in the Republic of Buryatia has uncovered an illegal Bitcoin mining operation concealed inside a KamAZ truck. The clandestine facility was siphoning off electricity meant for the local population.

According to the national news agency TASS, the discovery was made during a routine inspection of power lines in the Pribaikalsky district, where inspectors identified an unauthorized connection to a 10-kilovolt line — enough to power an entire village. The criminal operation showed a high level of organization, with sophisticated equipment hidden inside an apparently innocuous transport vehicle.

Source: Babr Mash

Inside the commercial truck, authorities found a fully operational mining center equipped with 95 machines and a portable transformer station. The technical setup suggested careful planning, designed to maximize bitcoin production while minimizing the risk of detection.

Two individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal activity managed to escape in an SUV before law enforcement arrived.

Impact of illegal mining on the local power grid

Buryatenergo, a regional unit of Rosseti Siberia, stressed how unauthorized connections severely compromise the stability of the local power grid. Consequences include voltage drops, overloads, and potential blackouts that disproportionately affect rural communities, already vulnerable in terms of energy access.

The illegal siphoning of electricity for mining creates a domino effect across the entire electrical infrastructure, causing service disruptions for legitimate users and increasing maintenance costs for grid operators.

Government restrictions on mining

The Russian government has implemented various restrictions on cryptocurrency mining in several regions of the country. In Buryatia, mining is banned from November 15 to March 15 due to seasonal energy shortages. Only companies registered in specific districts such as Severo-Baikalsky and Muisky are allowed to operate outside this period.

Federal restrictions were further tightened in December 2024, when Russia announced a ban on mining during peak energy months in multiple regions, including Dagestan, Chechnya, and parts of eastern Ukraine under Russian control. Since April, a total ban has been in effect in the southern region of Irkutsk.

Despite these restrictions, some Russian companies continue to operate legally in the sector. BitRiver, one of the country’s leading operators, takes advantage of the region’s low-cost energy, having launched its first and largest facility in 2019 in the city of Bratsk.

The post Illegal mining: clandestine operation discovered in a KamAZ truck in Russia appeared first on Atlas21.

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

This article was originally published on dev.to by satshacker.

Alright, you’ve built a useful and beautiful website, tool or app. However, monetization isn’t a priority and you’d rather keep the project free, ads-free and accessible?

Accepting donations would be an option, but how? A PayPal button? Stripe? Buymeacoffe? Patreon?

All of these services require a bank account and KYC verification, before you can send and receive donations – not very convenient.

If we only could send value over the internet, with just one click and without the need of a bank account…

Oh, hold on, that’s bitcoin. The decentralized protocol to send value across the globe. Money over TCP/IP.

In this article, we’ll learn how anyone can easily add a payment button or donation widget on a website or app.

Let’s get into it.

Introduction

Bitcoin is digital money that you can send and receive without the need for banks. While bitcoin is extremely secure, it’s not very fast. The maximum transactions per second (TPS) the network can handle is about 7. Obviously that’s not useful for daily payments or microtransactions.

If you’d like to dig deeper into how bitcoin works, a great read is “Mastering Bitcoin” by Andreas Antonopoulos.

Bitcoin vs Lightning

If you’d like to receive bitcoin donations “on-chain” all you need is a bitcoin wallet. You simply display your bitcoin address on your site and that’s it. You can receive donations.

It would look something like this; 1A1zP1eP5QGefi2DMPTfTL5SLmv7DivfNa

Instead of showing the actual bitcoin address, you can also turn it into a QR code.

However, this is not a recommended solution. Using static on-chain addresses has two major downsides. It lowers privacy for you and your donnors and it’s a UTXO disaster because many small incoming transactions could beocme hard to consolidate in the future.

For donations and small transactions, the Lightning Network is the better option. Lightning allows for instant settlement with fees only a fraction of a cent.

Similar to bitcoin, you have the choice between non-custodial and custodial wallets. This means, either you have full control over your money or the wallet provider has.

Option 1: Lightning Address

With the lightning address feature, you an easily receive donations to an email like address.

It looks like this: yourname@wallet.com

Many wallets support lightning addresses and make it easy to create one. Then, you simple add the address to your donation page and you’re ready to receive tips.

You can also add a link link as in lightning:yourname@wallet.com and compatible lightning wallets and browser wallets will detect the address.

How to get a Lightning Address Fast

Option 2: Lightning Donation Widgets

If you like to take it a step further, you can also create a more enhanced donation checkout flow. Of course you could programm something yourself, there are many open source libraries you can build upon. If you want a simple plug-and-play solution, here are a couple of options:

Name

Type

Registration

SatSale

Self-hosted

No KYC

BTCPay Server

Self-hosted

No KYC

Pay With Flash

Widget

Email

Geyser Fund

Widget

Email

The Giving Block

Hosted

KYC

OpenNode

Hosted

KYC

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SatSale (GitHub)

Lightweight, self-hosted Bitcoin/Lightning payment processor. No KYC.

Ideal for developers comfortable with server management. Simple to deploy, supports both on-chain and Lightning, and integrates with WooCommerce.

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BTCPay Server

Powerful, open-source, self-hosted processor for Bitcoin and Lightning. No KYC.

Supports multiple currencies, advanced features, and full privacy. Requires technical setup and maintenance. Funds go directly to your wallet; great for those seeking full control.

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Pay With Flash

Easiest for indie hackers. Add a donation widget with minimal code and no KYC. Payments go directly to your wallet for a 1.5% fee.

Setup Steps:

1. Sign up at PayWithFlash.com
2. Customize your widget in the dashboard
3. Embed the code:

1. Test to confirm functionality

Benefits:

• Minimal technical skills required
• Supports one-time or recurring donations
• Direct fund transfer, no intermediaries

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Geyser Fund

Crowdfunding platform. Widget-based, connects to your wallet, email registration.Focused on Bitcoin crowdfunding, memberships and donations.

---

The Giving Block

Hosted, KYC required. Integrates with fiat and crypto, best for nonprofits or larger organizations.

---

OpenNode

Hosted, KYC required. Accept Bitcoin payments and donations; supports conversion to fiat, suitable for businesses and nonprofits.

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Summary

• Fast, low-code setup: Use Pay With Flash or Geyser Fund.
• Privacy and control: Choose SatSale or BTCPay Server (requires technical skills).
• Managed, compliant solutions: The Giving Block or OpenNode.

Choose based on your technical comfort, privacy needs, and project scale.

I hope this article helped you. If you added bitcoin donations, share your link in the comments and I will send you a few satoshis maybe

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

The Brazilian government has abolished the Bitcoin tax exemption for small investors and introduced a flat 17.5% tax rate on all crypto capital gains.

Brazil has officially ended the tax-free period for small digital asset investors, introducing a flat 17.5% rate on all profits from cryptocurrency sales. The decision was formalized through Provisional Measure 1303, part of the government’s strategy to increase tax revenues from financial markets.

Until now, Brazilian residents selling up to 35,000 Brazilian reais (around $6,300) in cryptocurrencies per month were completely exempt from income tax. Profits exceeding this threshold were subject to progressive taxation, starting at 15% and reaching up to 22.5% for amounts over 30 million reais.

The new flat rate, which took effect on June 12, removes all exemptions and applies uniformly to every investor, regardless of the size of their transactions, according to local outlet Portal do Bitcoin.

While small-scale investors will now face a higher tax burden, high-net-worth individuals might actually benefit. Under the previous system, large transactions were taxed between 17.5% and 22.5%. With the new flat 17.5% rate, many high-profile investors will see their effective tax liability reduced.

Under the new rules, taxes will be calculated quarterly, with investors allowed to offset losses from the previous five quarters. However, starting in 2026, the time frame for claiming losses will be shortened.

Last March, Brazilian lawmakers also proposed a bill allowing employers to partially pay workers in cryptocurrency. According to the draft, crypto payments could not exceed 50% of an employee’s salary.

Full payment in cryptocurrencies would only be allowed for foreign workers or contractors, and only under specific conditions set by the Brazilian Central Bank. The bill prohibits full crypto payment for standard employees.

The post Brazil scraps crypto tax exemption: new 17.5% flat tax appeared first on Atlas21.

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

VanEck analyst Matthew Sigel warns of growing risks for Bitcoin treasury companies as their stock prices approach NAV.

Matthew Sigel, Head of Digital Assets Research at VanEck, has sounded the alarm for companies that have adopted Bitcoin-based treasury strategies.

No public BTC treasury company has traded below its Bitcoin NAV for a sustained period.

But at least one is now approaching parity.

As some of these companies raise capital through large at-the-market (ATM) programs to buy BTC, a risk is emerging: If the stock trades at or near…

— matthew sigel, recovering CFA (@matthew_sigel) June 16, 2025

In a post on X, Sigel highlighted an emerging issue in the sector of companies holding Bitcoin treasuries. Until now, no public company with a Bitcoin treasury has ever traded below its own Net Asset Value (NAV) for extended periods. The NAV represents the net value of a company’s assets (such as bitcoin and cash) minus its liabilities, divided by the number of outstanding shares — essentially indicating the real value of each share based on the company’s holdings. However, at least one of these companies (Semler Scientific) is now dangerously approaching breakeven.

The core of the issue lies in the capital-raising mechanism. Many of these companies rely on large-scale at-the-market (ATM) programs to acquire bitcoin, but when the stock price nears the NAV, this strategy can shift from creating value to destroying it.

The risk for shareholders

Under normal market conditions, companies like Semler Scientific and Strategy trade at a premium to the value of the bitcoin they hold. This means investors are willing to pay more for the company’s stock than the simple value of its bitcoin treasury.

However, when a company’s stock price approaches or falls below its NAV, the situation becomes problematic, according to Sigel. Issuing new shares at these levels not only dilutes the value for existing shareholders but can also become extractive, as management continues to raise capital while benefiting more than shareholders.

Proposed solutions

Sigel suggested several measures for companies pursuing Bitcoin treasury strategies. His recommendations include implementing preventive safeguards while stock premiums still exist. Notably, he proposes announcing a pause in ATM issuances if the stock trades below 0.95 times NAV for ten or more consecutive trading days. Additionally, Sigel advises prioritizing buybacks when bitcoin appreciates but the company’s equity does not reflect that increase.

Lessons from Bitcoin miners’ past

The VanEck analyst pointed out that similar situations have occurred in the Bitcoin mining sector, marked by persistent equity issuances and disproportionate executive compensation. To avoid repeating those mistakes, Sigel suggests that executive pay should be tied to growth in NAV per share, not the size of the Bitcoin position or the total number of outstanding shares.

Sigel concluded:

“Once you are trading at NAV, shareholder dilution is no longer strategic. It is extractive. Boards and shareholders should act with discipline now, while they still have the benefit of optionality.”

The post Bitcoin treasury: VanEck sounds the alarm for companies in the danger zone appeared first on Atlas21.

@ 472f440f:5669301e

Marty's Bent

So much for that tariff hyperinflation.\ \ New inflation numbers came at 1.2% — way below the Fed’s target.\ \ For the 4th time in Trump’s 4 months.\ \ Yet not a word about easing from the fed. Who’s now moving the inflation goal-posts to 2026 or even 2027. pic.twitter.com/nwzSCABrbR

— Peter St Onge, Ph.D. (@profstonge) June 16, 2025

After months of pundits, politicians, and partisan hacks kvetching about the aggressive tariff regime put forth by the Trump administration, we're beginning to see some data tickle in that makes it seem as if the tariff strategy may actually be working. At the end of last week, inflation data hit the market cooler than expected. Some core components coming in below the Federal Reserve's 2% inflation target. Granted, the CPI is manipulated and may be underreporting actual inflation. However, if we're simply comparing the CPI to itself, it seems to be moving in the right direction if, like me, you don't like when prices consistently rise month on month, year on year, decade on decade.

On top of this, the amount of revenue that tariffs are bringing in is significant and rising quickly. In May, tariff revenue collected in the U.S. hit a record of $22.3 billion. In April, the U.S. government brought in $16.5 billion from tariffs, and collectively, since Trump took office, the government has brought in around $67.2 billion in tariff revenue. Tariffs now reflect 4% of the total federal revenue, which is up from an average of 2% over the last few years. If this trend keeps up, the idea that tariffs can replace income tax revenue in the United States seems to be validated. Even better, it seems that the increased inflation that many were warning about hasn't materialized yet. There could be a way to increase the revenue of the federal government without increasing taxes on American producers while keeping prices lower. This is a beautiful thing.

I don't think it's time to ring the bell and claim victory in regards to tariffs and inflation quite yet, but this is extremely encouraging and something that all of you should be monitoring closely in the months ahead. Whether you're a Republican or a Democrat, I think we should all celebrate if the bold strategy of levying tariffs on the rest of the world to bring manufacturing home, while the government produces revenue via means that don't attack the income of individual citizens actually works out in the end.

It's crazy what pricing your life in Bitcoin does as you surf the internet. This newsletter was partly inspired by the video above from our good friend Peter St. Onge, but also because of this tweet I saw earlier today that priced the tariff revenue in bitcoin.

via The Kobeissi Letter

The Kobeissi Letter did not include the bitcoin denominations in its tweet. Our browser extension, Opportunity Cost, automatically injected it into the tweet so that I could understand how much revenue the government is bringing in in terms of Bitcoin. If they chose to use Bitcoin as a reserve asset.

It's crazy to think that at current bitcoin prices and if tariff revenue stays at the level it reached last month, the United States government could acquire a strategic reserve of 1 million bitcoin in less than five months. That really puts things into perspective, for me at least, about how much money is being thrown around the system both in the private markets and the public sector.

We are still extremely early in terms of bitcoin's adoption and monetization. Just looking at the tweet makes me want to tap somebody on the shoulder in the government and say, "Hey, look at this. If you sacrifice less than five months of tariff revenue and funnel that into bitcoin, you could have your strategic reserve by the end of the year. Before Thanksgiving even."

If tariff revenue continues to increase at the pace it has over the last couple of months, and the economy recovers, inflation isn't that bad, why not? Why not start building the strategic reserve with some of these revenues? A man can dream.

Washington's Bitcoin Awakening: From Crime Concerns to Strategic Asset

Ken Egan described a remarkable shift in how Washington views Bitcoin. Just a year ago, he recalls fighting defensive battles against basic misconceptions about criminal use and technical vulnerabilities. Today, policymakers ask sophisticated questions about Bitcoin's role in global monetary competition and national security strategy. Egan emphasized that discussions no longer waste time on "is it just for buying drugs" but instead focus on how Bitcoin can counter China's parallel financial systems and strengthen America's competitive position.

"There are people thinking, even the Department of Energy, some of whom will be at our conference, thinking really deeply about everything this ecosystem has to offer and how we can apply it to sort of a comprehensive national security strategy." - Ken Egan

Multiple government departments are now actively exploring Bitcoin's potential, Egan revealed. The Department of Defense examines mining for energy resilience, while the Department of Energy considers grid applications. Trump's executive order formally distinguished Bitcoin from other cryptocurrencies, signaling institutional recognition of its unique properties. This evolution from skepticism to strategic thinking represents a fundamental transformation in how America's policy establishment approaches Bitcoin.

Check out the full podcast here for more on institutional Bitcoin adoption, resistance money warnings, and bipartisan coalition building.

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Headlines of the Day

France Eyes Bitcoin Mining to Use Excess Energy - via X

Truth Social Files for Bitcoin ETF - via X

French Firm Raises €9.7M to Expand Bitcoin Treasury - via X

China's DDC Enterprise Adds 38 BTC to Treasury - via X

Get our new STACK SATS hat - via tftcmerch.io

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Bitcoin’s Next Parabolic Move: Could Liquidity Lead the Way?

Is bitcoin’s next parabolic move starting? Global liquidity and business cycle indicators suggest it may be.

Read the latest report from Unchained and TechDev, analyzing how global M2 liquidity and the copper/gold ratio—two historically reliable macro indicators—are aligning once again to signal that a new bitcoin bull market may soon begin.

Download the report here

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Ten31, the largest bitcoin-focused investor, has deployed $150.00M across 30+ companies through three funds. I am a Managing Partner at Ten31 and am very proud of the work we are doing. Learn more at ten31.vc/invest.

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Final thought...

The best way to start your Monday morning is for the brake system in your car to completely shit the bed and force you to sit on the side of the road for a tow truck for two hours.

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Download our free browser extension, Opportunity Cost: https://www.opportunitycost.app/ start thinking in SATS today.

Get this newsletter sent to your inbox daily: https://www.tftc.io/bitcoin-brief/

Subscribe to our YouTube channels and follow us on Nostr and X:

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

A mineração de Bitcoin é um processo crucial para o funcionamento e a segurança da rede. Ela tem um papel importante na validação de transações e na geração de novos bitcoins, garantindo a integridade do sistema baseado em blockchain ou timechain. Esse processo envolve resolver cálculos matemáticos complicados, exigindo grande poder computacional. Além disso, a mineração tem efeitos econômicos, ambientais e tecnológicos que devem ser analisados de forma detalhada.

A mineração de Bitcoin é o procedimento pelo qual novas unidades da moeda são criadas e adicionadas à rede. Ela também é responsável por verificar e registrar transações no blockchain ou timechain. Esse sistema foi criado para ser descentralizado, eliminando a necessidade de uma autoridade central para controlar a emissão ou validar operações.

Os participantes do processo, chamados de mineradores, competem para resolver problemas matemáticos difíceis. Aquele que achar a solução primeiro ganha o direito de adicionar um novo bloco ao blockchain ou timechain e recebe uma recompensa em bitcoins, além das taxas de transação que estão no bloco. Esse mecanismo é chamado de prova de trabalho (Proof of Work - PoW).

O processo de mineração é muito técnico e segue uma série de etapas:

Agrupamento de transações: as transações enviadas pelos usuários são reunidas em um bloco pendente, que aguarda validação.

Resolução de problemas matemáticos: os mineradores devem encontrar um número específico, chamado nonce, que, quando combinado com os dados do bloco, gera um hash criptográfico dentro de um padrão exigido. Esse processo requer tentativa e erro, consumindo alto poder computacional.

Validação do bloco: quando um minerador encontra a solução correta, o bloco é validado e adicionado ao blockchain ou timechain. Todos os nós da rede verificam a autenticidade do bloco antes de aceitá-lo.

Recompensa: o minerador que vencer recebe uma recompensa em bitcoins, além das taxas pagas pelas transações que estão no bloco. Essa recompensa diminui ao longo do tempo em um evento chamado halving, que acontece aproximadamente a cada quatro anos.

A mineração de Bitcoin tem um impacto econômico grande, pois cria oportunidades de renda para pessoas e empresas. Ela também estimula o desenvolvimento de novas tecnologias, como processadores especializados (ASICs) e sistemas de resfriamento modernos.

Além disso, a mineração apoia a inclusão financeira ao manter uma rede descentralizada, permitindo transações rápidas e seguras em nível global. Em áreas com economias instáveis, o Bitcoin oferece uma alternativa viável para preservação de valor e transferências financeiras.

Apesar de seus benefícios econômicos, a mineração de Bitcoin é frequentemente criticada por seu impacto no meio ambiente. O processo de prova de trabalho consome grandes quantidades de eletricidade, especialmente em áreas onde a matriz energética depende de fontes fósseis.

Estima-se que a mineração de Bitcoin consuma tanta energia quanto alguns países inteiros, levantando preocupações sobre sua sustentabilidade. No entanto, há esforços contínuos para reduzir esses impactos, como o uso crescente de fontes de energia renovável e soluções alternativas, como redes baseadas na prova de participação (Proof of Stake - PoS) em outros sistemas descentralizados.

A mineração também enfrenta desafios ligados à escalabilidade e à concentração de poder computacional. Grandes empresas e pools de mineração dominam o setor, o que pode afetar a descentralização da rede.

Outro desafio é a complexidade crescente dos cálculos matemáticos, que exige hardware mais avançado e consome mais energia com o tempo. Para enfrentar esses problemas, pesquisadores estudam soluções que otimizem o uso de recursos e mantenham a rede sustentável por um longo período.

Resumindo, a mineração de Bitcoin é um processo essencial para manter a rede e para a criação de novas unidades da moeda. Ela garante segurança, transparência e descentralização, sustentando o funcionamento do blockchain ou timechain.

No entanto, a mineração também traz desafios, como o alto consumo de energia e a concentração de recursos em grandes pools. Apesar disso, a busca por soluções sustentáveis e inovações tecnológicas indica um futuro promissor, onde o Bitcoin continuará a ter um papel central na economia digital.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

A new study by Kraken reveals how cryptocurrency investors perceive security as the main challenge in self-managing their digital assets.

According to The Block, a recent survey conducted by crypto exchange Kraken found that nearly half of respondents consider themselves the primary risk factor for their own crypto security. The research, which surveyed 789 participants, highlights that 48% of users see their own actions as the greatest threat to their investments in digital assets, surpassing concerns about external theft or fraud.

Kraken’s report underlines how personal responsibility in security management forces users to take full control of their digital funds. However, the study suggests that this autonomy can also become a source of anxiety for many investors.

Nick Percoco, Chief Security Officer at Kraken, commented on the findings, noting that “a lack of confidence in personal crypto security is capping the growth of the industry.” According to Percoco, unlocking the full potential of cryptocurrencies will require users to embrace self-custody and consistently invest in strong security habits.

Technologies to strengthen security

Despite the concerns highlighted in the study, 31% of participants expressed optimism about future technologies that could improve crypto security. Among the most promising solutions identified:

• advanced biometric systems for user authentication;
• multi-factor authentication to secure wallet access;
• AI-based fraud detection systems to prevent attacks.

Data and case studies

Kraken’s research emerges in a context where security threats remain a pressing reality. FBI data shows that in 2024, nearly 150,000 reports of crypto-related internet fraud resulted in $9.3 billion in losses. Older users, particularly those over 60, proved especially vulnerable, accounting for $3 billion in crypto-related financial fraud losses on their own.

The post Kraken study: 48% of users fear themselves in managing and securing their funds appeared first on Atlas21.

@ edeb837b:ac664163

On June 10th, 2025, four members of the NVSTly team traveled to New York City to attend the 2025 American Business Awards® ceremony, held at the iconic Marriott Marquis in Times Square. It was an unforgettable night as we accepted the Gold Stevie® Award for Tech Startup of the Year—this time, in person.

Meow (left), rich (center), MartyOooit (right)

Representing NVSTly at the event were:

• Rich, CEO & Founder
• Meow, CTO, Lead Developer, & Co-Founder
• MartyOooit, Investor
• Noob, Market Analyst (not shown in photos)

MartyOooit (left), rich (center), Meow (right)

While we shared the exciting news back in April when the winners were announced, being there in person alongside other winners—including eBay, AT&T, T-Mobile, HP Inc., and Fidelity Investments—made the achievement feel even more surreal. To be honored alongside billion-dollar industry leaders was a proud and humbling moment for our startup and a huge milestone in NVSTly’s journey.

---

🎤 Team Interview at the Event

During the event, our team was interviewed about the win. When asked:

“What does winning a Stevie Award mean for your organization?”
“How will winning a Stevie Award help your organization?”

Here’s what we had to say:
📺 Watch the video

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A Big Win for Retail Traders

NVSTly was awarded Gold for Tech Startup of the Year in recognition of our work building a powerful, free social investing platform that empowers retail traders with transparency, analytics, and community-driven tools.

Unlike traditional finance platforms, NVSTly gives users the ability to:

• Share and track trades in real time
• Follow and receive alerts from top traders
• Compete on global leaderboards
• Access deep stats like win rate, average return, and more

Whether you're a beginner or experienced trader, NVSTly gives you the insights and tools typically reserved for hedge funds—but in a free, social format built for the modern investor.

---

Continued Recognition and Momentum

This award adds to a growing list of recognition for NVSTly:

• 🏆 People’s Choice Winner at the 2024 Benzinga Fintech Awards
• 🔁 Nominated again for Best Social Investing Product in the 2025 Benzinga Fintech Awards
• 🌟 Team members JustCoreGames and Lunaster are nominated for Employee of the Year (Information Technology – Social Media) in the 2025 Stevie® Awards for Technology Excellence

We’re beyond proud of what our small but mighty team has accomplished—and we’re just getting started. 🚀

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Thanks to the Stevie Awards for an incredible night in New York, and to our community of 50,000+ traders who’ve helped shape NVSTly into what it is today.
This win is yours, too.

Stay tuned—more big things are coming.

— Team NVSTly

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The event brought together some of the most respected names in tech, finance, and business.

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Strategy Acquires 10,100 BTC, Surpasses 592,000 Bitcoin in Holdings 

Michael Saylor’s Strategy announces it has purchased an additional 10,100 BTC for approximately $1.05 billion, raising its total holdings to 592,100 BTC acquired at an average cost of $70,666 per Bitcoin.

BREAKING: STRATEGY BUYS ANOTHER 10,100 #BITCOIN pic.twitter.com/TZ6nosWenr

— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) June 16, 2025

Strategy added another 10,100 Bitcoin to its treasury between June 9 and June 15, 2025, according to a Form 8-K filed Monday with the SEC. The company spent approximately $1.05 billion on the latest allocation, paying an average price of $104,080 per Bitcoin, inclusive of fees and expenses. 

This brings Strategy’s total holdings to 592,100 BTC, acquired at a cumulative cost of $41.84 billion, or an average price of $70,666 per Bitcoin, solidifying its status as the world’s largest corporate holder of Bitcoin.

The recent allocation was financed through multiple capital raises. Strategy tapped its STRK and STRF at-the-market offerings, and completed a $979.7 million public offering of STRD, its 10.00% Series A Perpetual Stride Preferred Stock, on June 10.

“The Bitcoin purchases were made using proceeds from the STRK ATM, STRF ATM, and STRD Offering,” the company stated.

In addition to the purchase, Strategy reported a 19.1% BTC yield year-to-date in 2025, reflecting the strength of its long-term bitcoin investment thesis. 

This latest acquisition follows a series of steady purchases throughout 2024 and early 2025. Strategy has continued to scale its position quarter over quarter, using capital market tools to accumulate Bitcoin as part of its strategy.

“Strategy continues to execute on its commitment to the Bitcoin standard,” the company stated in its filing. 

The company continues to emphasize transparency around its holdings. Its website, strategy.com, hosts a Bitcoin Dashboard that is regularly updated with BTC purchase details, securities activity, and performance metrics in compliance with Regulation FD.

Strategy’s move comes during increasing institutional adoption of Bitcoin in 2025. The company’s acquisition strategy and consistent messaging have made it a leader for corporate engagement with the digital asset. 

With its most recent buy, Strategy now holds over 592,000 Bitcoin, a significant portion of the asset’s fixed 21 million supply—showing its view of Bitcoin not just as an investment, but as a core component of its financial strategy.  

This post Strategy Acquires 10,100 BTC, Surpasses 592,000 Bitcoin in Holdings  first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Jenna Montgomery.

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Senator Hagerty’s Vision Beyond The GENIUS Act: Make Tennessee A Hub For Bitcoin Mining

Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) has been in the headlines as of late as the GENIUS Act (S. 1582), a bill for which he was the primary sponsor, moves closer to passing in the U.S. Senate.

The GENIUS Act is a bill that, if enacted into law, would create a federal regulatory framework for stablecoins so that the technology can be more widely adopted. (While some Bitcoin enthusiasts may not like this, they should still pay attention to the language in the bill, as it could have an impact on U.S. citizens’ ability to use Bitcoin wallets privately.)

However, stablecoins aren’t the only thing on Senator Hagerty’s mind.

He’s also thinking about how to best produce and harness energy in Tennessee to use it for Bitcoin mining and AI compute.

He shared his vision on this topic with me in an interview I conducted with him at Bitcoin 2025:

Tennessee As A Hub For Bitcoin Mining and AI Compute

“We have an opportunity before us to be in the very lead,” Senator Hagerty told Bitcoin Magazine in regard to building nuclear facilities that can be used to produce energy for Bitcoin mining and AI processing.

“The largest utility in the world is the Tennessee Valley Authority — certainly the largest one in America — and I think we’ve got a unique opportunity here to move forward and become the energy hub of America,” he added.

“[We should] see more and more not only mining operations, but if you think about what Elon Musk is doing in Memphis with xAI, the data centers, the opportunities with artificial intelligence — there are many, many things that are going to happen in Tennessee.”

The Senator added that he believes the state can also strike partnerships with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee and Tennessee Tech as it works to become a more friendly destination for Bitcoin miners and data centers.

“We’ve got great opportunities [from] Memphis all the way across the state,” said Senator Hagerty.

Hagerty’s Call For Bipartisanship

Whether it’s working toward stablecoin legislation or crafting regulation that will enable industries like Bitcoin mining and data centers to thrive in the United States, Senator Hagerty believes these efforts should be inherently bipartisan.

“[These are] bipartisan — or nonpartisan issue[s] — frankly,” said the Senator.

“If you care about the competitiveness of America — if you want to see innovation happen on our shores rather than being pushed overseas — then you’re going to support what we’re trying to do in terms of putting a regulatory framework in place that will deliver certainty, that will create an ecosystem here in America that will allow these companies to thrive,” he added.

“It’s not just the stablecoin legislation I’m putting forward or what may happen with Bitcoin or other technologies like that. It’s the overall blockchain technology that’s going to help advance America beyond the 21st century. We need to stay in the lead. We can stay in the lead.”

This post Senator Hagerty’s Vision Beyond The GENIUS Act: Make Tennessee A Hub For Bitcoin Mining first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Frank Corva.

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Michael Saylor and Pakistan’s Crypto Minister Bilal Talk Bitcoin and Global Investment

Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and State Minister of Crypto Bilal Bin Saqib, held a conversation recently with the Executive Chairman and CEO of Strategy, Michael Saylor, about Bitcoin and its potential role in Pakistan’s economy.

BREAKING: Pakistan’s Finance Minister and State Minister on Crypto Bilal just talked with Michael Saylor about #Bitcoin

Nation States are here pic.twitter.com/aa5tM5kKbY

— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) June 15, 2025

Saylor highlighted the critical role of trust and leadership in attracting global capital, citing his own journey of turning a $400 million investment into a $40 billion market backed position through Bitcoin.

“Today, I will stay in touch with Bilal,” he said. “Pakistan has many brilliant people and a lot of people to do business with you. My company had less than $400 million to invest, but the markets gave me $40 billion because they trust us. And so the most important thing is leadership, intellectual leadership and that they trust you.”

Saylor further emphasized that trust and clarity of vision are what drive global capital flows.

“If the world trusts you and they hear your words, and you speak particularly, the capital and the capability will flow to Pakistan,” said Saylor. “It’s there, it wants to find a home and that’s what happened with our company. Our success is because we were clear and committed. And once the market decides who the leader is. They get behind the leader and they send their money to you. And I think they’d do it to Pakistan too. You have the most important thing, which is you have a commitment and a will and clarity here. So, I look forward to working with you.”

The new stance is a stark change for Pakistan, which had previously banned Bitcoin trading in 2018. On March 20, Bilal Bin Saqib told Bloomberg that Pakistan was planning to legalize Bitcoin and try to implement a regulatory framework to attract investors.

“Pakistan is done sitting on the sidelines,” said Saqib. “We want to attract international investment because Pakistan is a low-cost, high-growth market with 60% of the population under 30… Trump is making crypto a national priority, and every country, including Pakistan, will have to follow suit.”

During the 2025 Bitcoin Conference in Las Vegas, Saqib announced that Pakistan was creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve.

“Today, I will announce that the Pakistan government is setting up their own government led Bitcoin strategic reserve… and this wallet, the national Bitcoin wallet,” said Saqib. “It’s not for speculation or hype. We will be holding this Bitcoin and we will never ever sell them.”

This post Michael Saylor and Pakistan’s Crypto Minister Bilal Talk Bitcoin and Global Investment first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Oscar Zarraga Perez.

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Trump Media Files to Launch Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF 

Trump Media & Technology Group has filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to launch the Truth Social Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF, B.T.

The ETF will directly hold Bitcoin and Ether, with an initial allocation of 75% Bitcoin and 25% Ether. Shares of the fund will be offered to investors to track the performance of these assets and are expected to trade on NYSE Arca once approved. 

JUST IN: Registration statement for Trump Media's Bitcoin Treasury deal was declared effective by the SEC pic.twitter.com/PFyy44qXxH

— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) June 13, 2025

Crypto.com has been selected as the exclusive custodian, prime execution agent, staking, and liquidity provider for the ETF. Yorkville America Digital, LLC is the sponsor of the fund.

According to the company’s announcement, “The launch of the Truth Social Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF is pending effectiveness of the Registration Statement as well as approval of a Form 19b-4 filing with the SEC.” 

The fund is structured as a Nevada business trust. Shares will be issued and redeemed in blocks of 10,000 by authorized participants, with cash used for creation and redemption. The ETF may offer in-kind transactions in the future, pending additional regulatory approval. 

Trump Media acknowledged, “A registration statement relating to the Shares has been filed with the SEC but has not yet become effective. The Shares may not be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted, prior to the time the registration statement becomes effective.” 

The ETF is not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, which typically governs mutual funds and traditional ETFs by imposing rules on investor protections, disclosures, and fund operations. Because the ETF holds Bitcoin and Ether directly rather than securities, it qualifies as a grantor trust and is exempt from these requirements. 

The ETF filing also reflects Trump Media’s strategy to establish a presence in the digital asset space beyond social media and streaming. With the development of its financial services arm, Truth.Fi, the company is clearly positioning itself to compete in the growing digital asset space.  

If approved, the Truth Social ETF would give investors a direct, regulated path into both Bitcoin and Ether through one fund. As Trump Media expands its presence in financial services, the move signals a clear intention to compete in the space. 

This post Trump Media Files to Launch Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF  first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Jenna Montgomery.

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

H100 Group Receives 144.8 BTC in Convertible Loan Deal

H100 Group, Swedish health-tech firm, has received 144.8 BTC as part of a settlement tied to its convertible loan agreement, according to a company press release issued Monday. With this latest transaction, the Stockholm-based firm now holds a total of 169.2 BTC on its balance sheet.

H100 Group Receives 144.8 BTC as Partial Settlement Under Convertible Loan Framework. Now holds 169.2 BTC. pic.twitter.com/MAW044iXkG

— H100 (@H100Group) June 16, 2025

The 144.8 BTC was transferred as a part of the first four segments of H100’s loan agreement, which has been well received by investors thus far. H100 said in the release, “H100 Group AB (‘H100 Group’ or the ‘Company’) has today received 144.8 BTC as part of the proceeds from Tranches 1 through 4 under its previously announced convertible loan agreements.”

This follows recent reporting that Blockstream CEO Adam Back committed to lead a 750 million kronor (~$79 million) funding initiative for H100, anchored by a 150 million-krona injection in Tranche 6. The loan, structured for speed and cost-efficiency, was priced at 6.38 kronor per share—a 33% premium to market—showing investor confidence.

The loan structure includes settlement flexibility—either in cash or Bitcoin—which allows counterparties to opt for BTC delivery, reducing fiat friction and lining up with the firm’s long-term treasury outlook. 

“Unexpectedly, given the strong reception, Tranches 1-4 became in-the-money rapidly,” Back told CoinDesk. “I was expecting [H100] would convert them over time as they reached in-the-money status.” 

This funding approach allows H100 to bypass traditional rights issues while onboarding capital in a flexible manner. Tranches 7 and 8 are on deck, with room for size increases depending on market appetite.  

This also reflects H100’s evolving financial strategy. While the company’s core operations remain focused on AI-driven health and longevity services, its growing Bitcoin position is reshaping how capital is raised, stored, and deployed. As of now, the company’s BTC holdings stand at 169.2 BTC—up from just 24.41 BTC prior to this latest tranche execution. 

H100’s stock jumped 22% on Monday in response to the developments. 

As the firm continues negotiations for future tranches and explores adoption of BTC as a financial backbone, it positions itself uniquely at the intersection of health tech and decentralized finance. 

This post H100 Group Receives 144.8 BTC in Convertible Loan Deal first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Jenna Montgomery.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

People forget Bear Stearns failed March 2008 - months of denial followed before the public realized how bad the situation was under the surface.

Similar happening now but much larger scale. They did not fix fundamental issues after 2008 - everything is more fragile.

The Fed preemptively bailed out every bank with their BTFP program and First Republic Bank still failed. The second largest bank failure in history.

There will be more failures. There will be more bailouts. Depositors will be "protected" by socializing losses across everyone.

Our President and mainstream financial pundits are currently pretending the banking crisis is over while most banks remain insolvent. There are going to be many more bank failures as this ponzi system unravels.

Unlike 2008, we have the ability to opt out of these broken and corrupt institutions by using bitcoin. Bitcoin held in self custody is unique in its lack of counterparty risk - you do not have to trust a bank or other centralized entity to hold it for you. Bitcoin is also incredibly difficult to change by design since it is not controlled by an individual, company, or government - the supply of dollars will inevitably be inflated to bailout these failing banks but bitcoin supply will remain unchanged. I do not need to convince you that bitcoin provides value - these next few years will convince millions.

---

If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

The banking giant is exploring an expansion of its blockchain services, focusing on digital payments and currencies.

JPMorgan Chase has filed a new trademark application for the name “JPMD.” The filing was submitted on June 15 to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

The application, filed by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., covers a broad range of services related to digital assets and blockchain technology. These include the issuance of digital currencies, electronic payment processing, and financial custody services — all of which suggest a possible new stablecoin initiative for JPMorgan.

Experience with JPM Coin

This move wouldn’t be JPMorgan’s first foray into blockchain-based finance. The bank already operates JPM Coin, a dollar-pegged stablecoin used to enable instant transactions between institutional clients. The token runs on Quorum, a private blockchain network developed in-house by JPMorgan and based on Ethereum’s technology.

The registration of the JPMD trademark comes as JPMorgan and other major U.S. banks are considering a collaborative stablecoin project through their jointly owned entities: Early Warning Services and The Clearing House.

Similarly, corporations like Walmart and Amazon are mulling the creation of their own stablecoins.

The post JPMorgan files trademark for ‘JPMD’: a new stablecoin on the horizon for the American bank appeared first on Atlas21.

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

Bitcoin é a primeira moeda digital descentralizada do mundo, criada em 2009 por um indivíduo ou grupo sob o pseudônimo de Satoshi Nakamoto. O seu nascimento marcou o início de uma revolução no sistema financeiro global, introduzindo um novo tipo de moeda que não é controlada pelos governos ou instituições financeiras tradicionais. A história do Bitcoin está profundamente enraizada nos ideais de liberdade económica, transparência e resistência à censura.

A jornada começou em outubro de 2008, quando Satoshi Nakamoto publicou um artigo intitulado “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System”. O white paper, publicado na mailing list Cryptozoology, descreve a ideia de um sistema de pagamento digital baseado em uma rede peer-to-peer. Esse conceito elimina a necessidade de intermediários como bancos e resolve um problema conhecido como “gasto duplo” – possibilidade de replicação de moedas digitais – por meio de uma tecnologia chamada blockchain ou aquilo que o próprio Satoshi Nakamoto chamava de timechain.

O blockchain ou timechain é basicamente um livro-razão público e imutável que registra todas as transações do Bitcoin. Opera através de um sistema descentralizado, onde os participantes da rede (os chamados nós ou famosos nodes) verificam as transações e as organizam em blocos. Esses blocos são conectados por sua vez em uma cadeia contínua, formando a base para a segurança e transparência do sistema.

No dia 3 de janeiro de 2009, Satoshi Nakamoto extraiu o primeiro bloco do Bitcoin, conhecido como bloco gênese. O bloco continha uma mensagem codificada referenciando a crise financeira global de 2008: "The Times, 3 de janeiro de 2009, Chanceler à beira do segundo resgate bancário". Esta mensagem é emblemática da motivação por trás do Bitcoin: fornecer uma alternativa ao sistema financeiro centralizado que não conseguiu proteger a economia global.

Ao longo de 2009 e 2010, o Bitcoin permaneceu como um experimento entre os entusiastas da tecnologia e das criptomoedas. As primeiras transações de Bitcoin ocorreram entre participantes da rede, e o primeiro uso comercial da moeda ocorreu em 22 de maio de 2010, quando um programador chamado Laszlo Hanyecz comprou duas pizzas por 10 mil Bitcoins. Esta transação histórica foi apelidada de “Bitcoin Pizza Day”.

Satoshi Nakamoto continuou a contribuir para o desenvolvimento do Bitcoin até o final de 2010, quando desapareceu gradualmente da comunidade. Até hoje, sua identidade permanece um mistério e não há evidências concretas de quem ou quantas pessoas estavam por trás do pseudônimo. Antes de sair, Satoshi Nakamoto entregou o controle do projeto a outros desenvolvedores e deixou claro que o Bitcoin deveria ser uma tecnologia descentralizada, de propriedade de todos e controlada por ninguém.

Desde então, o Bitcoin cresceu exponencialmente. Cresceu de um experimento tecnológico para um ativo multibilionário e é amplamente considerada a forma legítima de moeda digital e reserva de valor. Governos, empresas e indivíduos em todo o mundo adotaram o Bitcoin como alternativa às moedas fiat tradicionais.

Resumindo, a criação do Bitcoin por Satoshi Nakamoto foi mais do que apenas o nascimento de uma moeda digital; Este foi o início de um movimento global para repensar a forma como o dinheiro é controlado e distribuído. Embora a identidade de Satoshi Nakamoto permaneça desconhecida, o seu legado continuará a moldar o futuro do sistema financeiro e a desafiar as estruturas económicas tradicionais.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ fd0bcf8c:521f98c0

The coffee tastes burnt. Dad stirs his black coffee with a plastic spoon. His hands shake a little. Seventy years of working hands.

"How are the girls?"

"Good. Emma lost her first tooth. Sophie's learning to ride her bike."

He smiles. First real smile I've seen from him in months.

"Remember when you learned? Took you all summer. Scraped knees every day. Kept getting back on."

A seagull lands on the window ledge. Fat from tourist scraps.

"Your mother says Sophie looks like you did at that age. Same stubborn streak."

"She gets that honest."

We watch people walk the beach. Families. Couples. Kids building sandcastles that won't last the tide.

"How's retirement treating you?"

"Can't complain. Get to spend time with the kids. Help with homework."

"Lucky man. Forty-three and done."

His coffee sits untouched now. Getting cold.

"Market's been crazy lately."

"Yeah?"

"Down thirty percent this year. Everything I put away for forty years. Just... gone."

The seagull flies away. Smarter than us.

"Your mother keeps watching the news. Every day it's worse. Says maybe we should sell. Cut our losses."

"Timing the market's tough."

"Tell me about it. Bought high. Always buy high."

An old couple walks past. Moving slow but still moving.

"Your uncle says it'll come back. Says to buy more while it's cheap. Easy for him to say."

"He's got different circumstances."

"That's what I told your mother. But you know how she listens to him."

Dad finally drinks his coffee. Makes a face. Cold and bitter.

"Your sister called yesterday."

"Yeah?"

"Needs money for the lawyer. Divorce is getting messy."

"Sorry to hear that."

"Can't say no to my kids. Even when they're forty-two."

His shoulders sag. Seventy years of carrying weight.

"How's the night shift?"

"Long. Double shifts most weeks."

"That's rough."

"Back's killing me. Feet hurt. Everything hurts."

The tide is going out. Leaving shells and debris on the sand.

"Mom's job situation?"

His face goes dark.

"They're shipping it overseas. AI's taking the rest. Forty years of experience. Means nothing now."

We sit in the quiet. Two men running out of safe ground.

"Dad?"

"Yeah?"

He looks at his hands. Working hands. Tired hands.

"Son, we can't retire."

The words hang between us like smoke. Everything we've been dancing around. Everything he's been trying not to say.

The market. The job. The sister. The uncle's bad advice. All of it leading here.

To this moment. This truth.

I want to fix it. Want to offer solutions. Want to give him some Bitcoin or a check.

But I don't.

The waitress brings the check. I reach for my wallet.

"I got it."

"Dad, let me—"

"I got it."

He counts out bills slowly. Leaves a decent tip.

Sometimes the best thing you can give someone is silence. Let them keep their dignity intact.

The ocean takes. The ocean gives back. But never what you expect.

Only what remains.

@ e1cde248:609c13b0

ในโลกของเกมออนไลน์ โดยเฉพาะเกมที่มีระบบแลกเปลี่ยนและการซื้อขายกันระหว่างผู้เล่น (player-to-player trading) มีสิ่งหนึ่งที่เกิดขึ้นซ้ำแล้วซ้ำเล่าในแทบทุกเกม นั่นคือ "item หายาก" (rare item) ค่อยๆ กลายเป็นสื่อกลางในการแลกเปลี่ยน มันไม่ใช่แค่ของมีค่าในตัวเองเท่านั้น แต่ยังถูกใช้เสมือนเป็น “เงิน” (currency) ของโลกเสมือนนั้นด้วย

ลองจินตนาการว่าเรากำลังเล่นเกมที่มีระบบ economy ผู้เล่นสามารถหาของจากการล่ามอนสเตอร์ (monster hunting) หรือผ่านเควสต่างๆ สิ่งที่เกิดขึ้นคือบาง item มีโอกาสดรอป (drop rate) ต่ำมากๆ และมีความต้องการสูง สิ่งเหล่านี้แหละที่เริ่ม “มีมูลค่า” ในสายตาของผู้เล่น

เมื่อคนจำนวนมากเริ่มยอมรับว่า item นี้ “แลกของอื่นได้” หรือ “ใช้วัดมูลค่าได้” มันก็กลายเป็นเงินอย่างไม่เป็นทางการโดยอัตโนมัติ

Rare item = เงิน? ได้ไง?

คำตอบง่ายมาก: เพราะมัน หายาก (scarce), เป็นที่ต้องการ (demanded) และ เป็นที่ยอมรับในกลุ่มผู้เล่น (accepted)

ในระบบที่ไม่มีเงินกลางแบบ fix ผู้เล่นจะเริ่มหาสิ่งใดสิ่งหนึ่งมาทำหน้าที่แทน เช่น item ที่ทุกคนรู้ว่าหายากจริง หาไม่ได้ง่ายๆ และมีปริมาณจำกัดในตลาด ระบบนี้เกิดขึ้นเองโดยไม่มี dev หรือระบบของเกมไปบอกว่า "นี่คือเงินนะ"

สิ่งนี้ทำให้เกิด “เศรษฐกิจเสมือน (virtual economy)” ที่ผู้เล่นสร้างขึ้นเองโดยธรรมชาติ และมันคือบทเรียนสำคัญเรื่องเงินในโลกจริง

เศรษฐกิจที่เกิดจาก consensus (ฉันทามติ)

เงิน ไม่ว่าจะในโลกจริงหรือโลกเสมือน มีจุดเริ่มต้นมาจากสิ่งเดียวกันคือ ความเชื่อร่วมกัน (shared belief)

ในเกม ผู้เล่นหลายพันคนพร้อมใจกันเชื่อว่า item ชิ้นนี้ “มีค่า” จึงสามารถใช้แลกทุกอย่างได้ บางคนเอาไปจ้างช่วยผ่านบอส บางคนเอาไปซื้อชุดหรือของตกแต่ง ความน่าสนใจคือ item นั้นอาจไม่ใช่สิ่งที่มี "utility" สูงด้วยซ้ำ บางอันมีไว้โชว์เท่ๆ เท่านั้น แต่มันมี “มูลค่า” เพราะผู้เล่นเห็นว่ามันควรมี

นั่นคือพลังของ consensus และมันคือกลไกเดียวกับที่เงินกระดาษ หรือแม้แต่คริปโตอย่าง Bitcoin ใช้ในการสร้างมูลค่า

ระบบที่ไร้เสถียรภาพ (fragile system)

แต่ economy แบบนี้ไม่ได้สมบูรณ์แบบไปเสียหมด สิ่งหนึ่งที่มักเกิดขึ้นคือ ความเปราะบาง (fragility)

ถ้า item ที่เคยหายากอยู่ๆ กลายเป็นดรอปง่ายขึ้น หรือมี bug ให้ dup ได้ ความเชื่อในความขาดแคลนนั้นจะพังลงทันที และแน่นอนว่า value ที่เคยสูงลิ่วก็ร่วงตามไปด้วย

นอกจากนี้ ยังมีปัจจัยอื่นเช่น การที่ dev แก้กฎ เพิ่มหรือลด supply item โดยไม่แจ้งล่วงหน้า หรือปิด server แบบไม่คาดคิด สิ่งเหล่านี้ทำให้ economy ที่เคยดูมั่นคงต้องสลายไปเพียงชั่วข้ามคืน

นั่นคือจุดที่ virtual economy แตกต่างจาก real-world crypto economy ที่สร้างอยู่บนความโปร่งใสและโค้ดที่ทุกคนตรวจสอบได้

สิ่งที่เราเห็นในเกมไม่ใช่เรื่องบังเอิญ มันคือบทเรียนทางเศรษฐศาสตร์แบบเรียลไทม์ และเรียลฟีล

เรารู้ว่าเงินไม่จำเป็นต้องถูกสร้างโดยรัฐ เรารู้ว่าเงินไม่จำเป็นต้องมีตัวตนแบบธนบัตร และเรารู้ว่า สิ่งใดก็ตามที่หายาก ตรวจสอบได้ และได้รับการยอมรับร่วมกัน — มันสามารถเป็น “เงิน” ได้ แม้จะเป็นแค่ item ในเกมก็ตาม

โลกของเกมจึงเป็น sandbox ที่สอนเราว่า “value” คือสิ่งที่ถูกสร้างขึ้นจากฉันทามติ ไม่ใช่จากอำนาจ

สรุป: เกมคือโลกจำลองของเศรษฐกิจมนุษย์

ไอเทมหายากในเกมที่กลายเป็นเงินไม่ใช่แค่เรื่องบังเอิญ แต่มันคือภาพสะท้อนว่า ความขาดแคลน + ความต้องการ + ความยอมรับ = มูลค่า และนั่นคือหัวใจของระบบเงินทุกแบบ ไม่ว่าจะเป็นทองคำ เงินเฟียต หรือสินทรัพย์ดิจิทัลอย่าง Bitcoin

โลกของเกมไม่ใช่แค่ที่เล่นสนุก แต่มันคือห้องทดลองทางเศรษฐกิจ ที่เปิดเผยให้เราเห็นว่าผู้คนสามารถสร้างระบบเงินได้ด้วยตัวเอง โดยไม่ต้องพึ่งรัฐ ไม่ต้องมีธนาคารกลาง และไม่ต้องมีใคร “อนุมัติ”

มันเริ่มจาก item เล็กๆ ที่คนอยากได้ และจบลงด้วยระบบ economy ที่ทรงพลังยิ่งกว่าที่ dev เคยคาดคิด

@ 31a4605e:cf043959

Bitcoin é uma moeda digital descentralizada criada em 2009 por um indivíduo ou grupo sob o pseudônimo de Satoshi Nakamoto. Ao contrário das moedas tradicionais emitidas pelo governo, como o dólar americano ou o euro, o Bitcoin não é controlado por nenhuma autoridade central, como um banco central ou uma instituição financeira. Esta característica inovadora tornou-o foco do debate económico, tecnológico e até mesmo social nos últimos anos.

O Bitcoin funciona com uma tecnologia chamada blockchain (que atualmente a comunidade Bitcoin prefere chamá-la de timechain), é essencialmente um livro digital distribuído. O blockchain ou timechain registra todas as transações feitas na rede Bitcoin de forma aberta e transparente. Cada bloco contém um conjunto de transações que são adicionadas de forma imutável à cadeia, assim que são verificadas pelos mineradores (mineradores são basicamente participantes da rede que usam seu poder computacional para verificar essas mesmas transações). Isto garante a segurança e evita fraudes, uma vez que nenhuma pessoa ou entidade pode alterar retroativamente os registos.

Uma das melhores características ​​do Bitcoin é a sua oferta limitada. Apenas podem ser criados 21 milhões de Bitcoins, o que por este mesmo motivo o Bitcoin apresenta um carácter deflacionário, ao contrário da moeda fiduciária, que os bancos centrais podem imprimir em quantidades ilimitadas. Este limite fixo, combinado com o crescente interesse global pela tecnologia em geral e pela privacidade de modo individual impulsiona a valorização do Bitcoin ao passar do tempo.

Outra característica do Bitcoin é que ele permite transações diretas entre pessoas, eliminando intermediários. Isto é particularmente útil em cenários como transferências internacionais, onde o Bitcoin pode ser utilizado para enviar dinheiro rapidamente e com taxas reduzidas, sem ter que passar por um banco ou serviços financeiros tradicionais no geral. Além disso, é visto como uma forma de liberdade financeira em países com moedas locais instáveis (quase sempre efeito dos bancos centrais imprimem dinheiro de forma completamente descontolada) ​​ou controlos rígidos estatais sobre o capital.

Porém, o Bitcoin não está imune a críticas que tendem sempre a ser críticas vazias que mascaram os interesses pessoais de quem as faz, seja porque trabalham em bancos ou corretoras tradicionais e têm medo de perder o “poder” ou até mesmo o emprego ou então porque têm más intenções e querem vender as suas criptomoedas que no fundo são todas inúteis (as famosas shitcoins). As oscilações de preço do Bitcoin também podem significar riscos enormes para usuários que são no fundo iniciantes, compram por determinado preço e acabam por vender quando o valor caiu pela metade (perdendo pelo menos metade do seu dinheiro). Por outro lado, muitos especialistas consideram o Bitcoin um marco tecnológico e social que desafia os modelos económicos existentes.

Resumindo, o Bitcoin é muito mais do que uma “crypto“ ou “criptomoeda“. Representa uma revolução ou revisão na forma como a maioria dos seres humanos pensam sobre o dinheiro, proporcionando uma alternativa descentralizada, transparente e resistente ao roubo ou atê mesmo à censura. Embora ainda enfrente alguns desafios para ser amplamente aceite por alguns cépticos e por alguns governos preocupados com a perda de controlo das “suas” próprias populações (como mencionado anteriormente), o seu impacto tem sido inegável, abrindo caminho para uma nova era na economia global e abrindo a mente de muitas pessoas para a reflexão.

Muito obrigado por teres lido o texto até aqui, espero que esteja tudo bem contigo e um abraço enorme do teu madeirense bitcoiner maximalista favorito. Viva a liberdade!

@ e1cde248:609c13b0

ในปี 1975 มหาวิทยาลัย Yale ได้ทำการศึกษาจากกลุ่มคนที่มีอายุตั้งแต่ 50 ปีจำนวน 660 คน ในหัวข้อ ความเห็นที่มีต่อ “การสูงวัยขึ้น(aging)”

กลุ่มที่หนึ่ง มีความเห็นและความเชื่อที่เป็นด้านบวก ทั้งในเรื่องสุขภาพ ความคิด ความคาดหวังที่ดี เมื่อแก่ตัวขึ้น

กลุ่มที่สอง มีความเห็นและความเชื่อที่เป็นด้านลบ ประมาณว่า “การออกกำลังกายไม่ได้ทำอะไรให้ดีขึ้นหรอก ยังไงก็ต้องป่วย ต้องตายอยู่ดี”

ปรากฎว่า เมื่อผ่านไป 23 ปี กลุ่มที่หนึ่งมีอายุขัยเฉลี่ยมากกว่ากลุ่มที่สอง ถึง 7.6 ปี ซึ่งเป็นตัวเลขที่แตกต่างกันมาก

การศึกษานี้ต้องการจะบอกอะไรกับเรา?

แน่นอนว่า ผลลัพธ์ทุกอย่าง เกิดขึ้นได้ จากการกระทำ เวลาที่เราวางแผนจะลงมือทำอะไร ล้วนแต่เริ่มต้นจาก การตั้งเป้าหมาย ทั้งสิ้น

แต่คำถามคือ เมื่อบรรลุเป้าหมายแล้ว ยังไงต่อ?

ข้อเสียอย่างหนึ่ง ของการตั้งเป้าหมายโดยมีรากฐานมาจากผลลัพธ์ที่ต้องการ คือ เรามีแนวโน้มที่จะ “หยุดทำ” เมื่อได้ผลลัพธ์ที่ต้องการแล้ว

ยกตัวอย่างเช่น การลดน้ำหนัก เราชอบมองเรื่องของการลดน้ำหนักเป็นเหมือน การจัดแคมเปญ โดยมีช่วงเวลาที่กำหนด และเมื่อบรรลุเป้าหมาย เราก็กลับมามีพฤติกรรมแบบเดิม ซึ่งทำให้น้ำหนักที่ลดลงไป กลับมา

James Clear ผู้เขียนหนังสือชื่อ Atomic Habits ได้กล่าวว่า แค่การวางแผน และลงมือทำ ไม่ได้นำมาซึ่งผลลัพธ์ที่ยั่งยืน

แต่สิ่งที่สำคัญกว่า ที่เราต้องทำคือ การกำหนดตัวตนของเราใหม่

เวลาที่เราต้องการลดน้ำหนัก 10 กิโล ให้เรามองลึกลงไปกว่าการวางแผนเรื่องการกิน และการออกกำลังกาย

แต่ให้ตั้งเป้าหมายว่า

“ต่อไปนี้ฉันจะเป็นคนที่ เลือกกินที่แต่ของที่มีประโยชน์ และจะออกกำลังกายสม่ำเสมอ” “ฉันไม่ใช่คนที่ชอบกินขนมและของที่มีน้ำตาลสูง” “ฉันเป็นนักกีฬาที่เข้มงวดต่อตารางฝึกซ้อม”

การกำหนดตัวตนของเราใหม่ เป็นเหมือนการปรับเปลี่ยน Mindset ถ้าเรา “โฟกัส” ลงไปที่แก่นของพฤติกรรมแล้ว “ผลลัพธ์” แบบที่เราต้องการจะมาเอง และยั่งยืนกว่า

การศึกษาของมหาวิทยาลัย Yale เป็นข้อพิสูจน์ของเรื่องนี้ได้อย่างดี เพราะกลุ่มคนที่มีความเชื่อที่เป็นด้านบวก จะให้ความสำคัญต่อการออกกำลังกายมากขึ้น หยุดกินเหล้า หยุดสูบบุหรี่ และใช้เวลาอยู่กับคนที่มีมุมมองเป็นบวกเหมือนกัน

เมื่อเราได้ติดสินใจแล้วว่า คนแบบไหนที่เราต้องการจะเป็น พฤติกรรมต่างๆในชีวิตประจำวันของเราจะค่อยๆ เปลี่ยนไป และจะยิ่งเห็นผลชัดเจนขึ้นเรื่อยๆในระยะยาว

เรา คือผลลัพธ์ของ สิ่งที่เราลงมือทำ

เรา คือผลลัพธ์ของ การตัดสินใจของเรา

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Flash Releases Free Bitcoin Invoicing Tool with No Fees, KYC, or Custody

Flash, a Bitcoin payment platform, just announced it has launched Flash Invoicing, a completely free, non-custodial, and KYC-free Bitcoin invoicing tool. Designed for freelancers, the platform allows users to send professional invoices without platform fees, identity checks, or third party custody.

According to Deel, a crypto payments company for freelancers, Bitcoin is the most used cryptocurrency in the world for payments. Despite this growth, many freelancers continue to use basic methods such as pasting Bitcoin addresses into PDFs or emails. Some rely on custodial platforms that deduct fees or require identity verification, which can affect both earnings and data privacy.

“We’ve seen too many people paste BTC addresses into documents and call it invoicing,” said the CEO of Flash Pierre Corbin. “It’s messy. It’s risky. And it’s time for something better.” 

Flash Invoicing Features:

• 0% platform fees: no subscriptions or commission
• Non-custodial: Bitcoin goes straight to the user’s wallet
• No KYC: users maintain full privacy
• Professional output: branded PDFs and secure payment links
• Integrated dashboard: manage payments, clients, and revenue
• Works with Flash ecosystem: including Stores, Donations, Paywalls, and POS

Many Bitcoin invoicing tools charge a percentage per transaction or require a subscription. As a result, freelancers often lose part of their income simply to issue an invoice and receive payment. Flash is aiming to solve this issue.

“Freelancers work hard enough. The last thing they need is a platform skimming off their earnings,” said Corbin. “That’s why we dropped our fee from 1.5% to 0% — and launched the first invoicing tool that’s truly free, without compromising on privacy or control.”

Flash Invoicing allows users to accept Bitcoin payments without relinquishing control, privacy, or revenue. It is integrated with the broader Flash suite, enabling users to manage invoicing alongside features such as setting up stores, receiving donations, or gating premium content.

“As a freelancer myself, I love using the Flash invoicing feature,” stated a freelancer & Flash user. ”It keeps all my clients in one place, allows me to easily edit invoices and track payments. Much more professional than sending a lightning address in the footer of a PDF invoice.”

This post Flash Releases Free Bitcoin Invoicing Tool with No Fees, KYC, or Custody first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Oscar Zarraga Perez.

@ 2d59d99a:2fe1d17f

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@ e5cfb5dc:0039f130

はりまメンタルクリニック：GIDの大手そう。丸の内線ならパムくんちが近い。

わらびメンタルクリニック：GIDの大手そう？公式サイトには影もかたちも

ナグモクリニック：SRS手術までしてるところ。GID精神科外来が月1第1木曜日だけ？

狭山メンタルクリニック：距離・時間的にはまま近い。サイトの記述が思想的にちょとあやしげ。新患受付がだいぶ先。GIDは専門外か？

川島領診療所：オンライン診療あり！強迫性障害や美容皮膚科をやっている。雰囲気よさそうなところ。GIDは専門外か？

Jこころのクリニック：電車いっぽんなので楽。GIDは専門外か？

ハッピースマイルクリニック：オンライン診療あり！GIDは専門外か？

@ 8bad92c3:ca714aa5

Marty's Bent

Sup, freaks? Your Uncle Marty did a little vibe coding a couple months ago and that vibe coding project has turned into an actual product that is live in the Google Chrome web store and will soon to be live in the Firefox add-on store as well. It's called Opportunity Cost and it is an extension that enables you to price the internet in Bitcoin.

[

Opportunity Cost – See Prices in Bitcoin Instantly

Convert USD prices to Bitcoin (satoshis) as you browse. Dual display, privacy-first, and open source.

Opportunity CostTFTC

](https://www.opportunitycost.app/?ref=tftc.io)

Check it out!

This whole process has been extremely rewarding to me for many reasons. The first of which is that I've had many ideas in the past to launch a product focused on bitcoin education that simply never left my brain because I never felt comfortable paying a developer to go out and build a product that I wasn't sure would ultimately get product market fit.

Due to the advancements of AI, particularly ChatGPT and Replit, I was able to spend a few hours on a Saturday vibe coding a prototype for Opportunity Cost. It worked. I side loaded it into Chrome and Firefox, tested it out for a few days and decided, "Hey, I think this is something that's worthwhile and should be built."

Backtracking just a little bit, the initial idea for this app was to create an AR application that would enable you to take pictures of goods in the real world and have their prices automatically converted to bitcoin so that you could weigh the opportunity cost of whether or not you actually wanted to buy that good or decide to save in bitcoin instead. With the help of Justin Moon from the Human Rights Foundation and Anthony Ronning from OpenSecret and Maple AI, I was pointed in the right direction of vibe coding tools I could use to build a simple MVP. I took their advice, built the MVP, and demoed it at the Bitcoin Park Austin weekly AI meetup in mid-April.

The next week, I was talking with a friend, Luke Thomas, about the idea and during our conversation he made a simple quip, "You should make a Chrome extension. I really want a Chrome extension that does this." And that's what sent me down the vibe coding rabbit hole that Saturday which led to the prototype.

After I was comfortable with and confident in the prototype, I found a young hungry developer by the name of Moses on Nostr, I reached out to him, told him my idea, showed him the prototype and asked if he thought he could finish the application for me. He luckily agreed to do so and within a couple of weeks we had a fully functioning app that was officially launched today. We're about 12 hours into the launch and I must say that I'm pleasantly surprised with the reception from the broader Bitcoin community. It seems like something that people are happy exists and I feel extremely happy that people see some value in this particular application.

Now that you have the backstory, let's get into why I think something like Opportunity Cost should exist. As someone who's been writing a newsletter and producing podcasts about bitcoin for eight years in an attempt to educate individuals from around the world about what bitcoin is, why it's important, and how they can leverage it, I've become convinced that a lot of the work that needs to be done still exists at the top of the funnel. You can scream at people. You can grab them by the shoulders. You can shake them. You can remind them at Thanksgiving that if they had listened to your advice during any Thanksgiving in the previous years they would be better off financially. But at the end of the day most people don't listen. They need to see things. Seeing things for yourself is a much more effective teaching mechanism than be lectured to by someone else.

My hope with Opportunity Cost is that it catches the eye of some bitcoin skeptics or individuals who may be on the cusp of falling down the bitcoin rabbit hole and they see the extension as a way to dip their toes into bitcoin to get a better understanding of the world by pricing the goods and services they purchase on a day-to-day month-to-month and year-to-year basis in bitcoin without having to download a wallet or set up an exchange account. The tippy top of the bitcoin marketing funnel.

That is not all though. I think Opportunity Cost can serve individuals at both ends of the funnel. That's why it's pretty exciting to me. It's as valuable to the person who is bitcoin curious and looking to get a better understanding as it is to the hardcore bitcoiner living on a bitcoin standard who is trying to get access to better tools that enable him to get a better grasp of their spending in bitcoin terms.

Lastly, after playing around with it for a few days after I built the prototype, I realized that it has incredible memetic potential. Being able to take a screenshot of goods that people are buying on a day-to-day basis, pricing them in bitcoin and then sharing them on social media is very powerful. Everything from houses to junk items on Amazon to the salaries of pro athletes to your everyday necessities. Seeing the value of those things in bitcoin really makes you think.

One day while I was testing the app, I tried to see how quickly I could find goods on the internet that cumulatively eclipsed the 21 million supply cap limit of bitcoin. To my surprise, even though I've been in bitcoin for 12 years now, it did not take me that long. The opportunity cost of everything I buy on a day-to-day basis becomes very clear when using the extension. What's even clearer is the fact that Bitcoin is completely mispriced at current levels. There is so much winning ahead of us.

Also, it's probably important to note that the extension is completely open source. You can check out our GitHub page here. Submit pull requests. Suggest changes to the app.

We've also tried to make Opportunity Cost as privacy preserving as possible. Everything within the extension happens in your browser. The only external data that we're providing is the bitcoin to fiat price conversion at any given point in time. We're not data harvesting the web pages you're browsing or the items you're looking at. We're not collecting data and sending it to third party marketers. We want to align ourselves with the open and permissionless nature of bitcoin while also preserving our users' privacy. We're not trying to monetize this in that way. Though, I will say that I'm thinking of ways to monetize Opportunity Cost if it does gain significant traction, but I promise it will be in a way that respects your privacy and is as unobtrusive as possible. We'll see how it goes.

Thank you for coming to my TED talk. Please download and use the extension. Let us know what you think.

Headlines of the Day

Saylor Says Bitcoin Is Perfect Money to Jordan Peterson - via X

Trump Won't Sell Tesla Despite Musk-Bessent Heated Exchange - via X

Bitcoin Gains Traction in Kenya's Largest Slum Kibera - via X

Get our new STACK SATS hat - via tftcmerch.io

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Is bitcoin’s next parabolic move starting? Global liquidity and business cycle indicators suggest it may be.

Read the latest report from Unchained and TechDev, analyzing how global M2 liquidity and the copper/gold ratio—two historically reliable macro indicators—are aligning once again to signal that a new bitcoin bull market may soon begin.

Download the report here

---

Ten31, the largest bitcoin-focused investor, has deployed $150.00M across 30+ companies through three funds. I am a Managing Partner at Ten31 and am very proud of the work we are doing. Learn more at ten31.vc/invest.

---

Final thought...

East Coast aesthetics over everything.

---

Download our free browser extension, Opportunity Cost: https://www.opportunitycost.app/ start thinking in SATS today.

Get this newsletter sent to your inbox daily: https://www.tftc.io/bitcoin-brief/

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@ 9ca447d2:fbf5a36d

While most Bitcoin companies chase quick wins with flashy marketing and complex trading features, Coinfinity is taking a different path. The Austria-based company has built their entire business model around something most brokers treat as an afterthought: education.

Founded on the principle that Bitcoin adoption requires understanding, not just access, Coinfinity offers something great in the Bitcoin space: a broker that actually wants you to take your bitcoin off their platform.

Their Bitcoin Blinks educational series provides a self-custody-first approach, and Austrian economics foundation make them stand out in a crowded field of crypto casinos.

Coinfinity’s HQ in Graz, Austria

At the heart of this educational mission is Fab, Coinfinity’s Head of Bitcoin Education, whose journey to Bitcoin mirrors that of many who’ve found their way to Austrian economics through pure instinct.

“I always had the feeling that something in the world just doesn’t add up,” he told Bitcoin News when he sat down with us. “Something’s wrong, I don’t know what, but I felt like the foundation of our society isn’t quite fair, I just never knew what it was.”

Sound familiar?

That hunch eventually led him down a rabbit hole of geopolitics, monetary systems, and finally to Andreas Antonopoulos videos on YouTube.

“I basically disappeared from life for about a week, just watching those videos,” Fab recalled. But it wasn’t until he read The Bitcoin Standard that everything clicked.

“I remember it like it was yesterday, I closed the book and thought ‘Holy s***, now I get it.’ That was the moment. From then on, I was Bitcoin-only.”

Many of the best Bitcoin books are in English and translating them is important

Now as Head of Bitcoin Education at Coinfinity and co-founder of Aprycot Media (a German publishing house focused exclusively on Bitcoin), Fab spends his days helping others find that same spark.

And unlike most “crypto” companies, Coinfinity’s strategy isn’t driven by marketing gimmicks or token launches, it’s driven by teaching.

“Our goal is to create educational content that’s so easy to understand that people love sharing it,” Fab explained. “When they share it, they connect with us. Once they start understanding Bitcoin, they choose us to buy it.”

Most companies buy Google ads. Coinfinity builds minds. With their Bitcoin Blinks, 42 short, clear lessons covering everything from subjective value to seed phrases, they’re offering what most brokers won’t: context. Meaning. Philosophy.

“It became quite popular, and we think it’s way more effective for our brand than just buying ads,” Fab said.

And they don’t stop there. When it comes to custody, Coinfinity takes a radically different approach than most Bitcoin brokers.

“When you buy bitcoin from us, you always take custody, either in our in-app wallet where you control the seed, or your own hardware wallet,” Fab emphasized. “Even our lightning feature works the same way you always buy into your own wallet.”

That’s not just a slogan. It’s a core value of the company that runs so deep they’re willing to sacrifice user experience for it. “We never custody your bitcoin,” Fab said. “It’s one of the core values that you custody them yourself.”

Even as fees rise and UTXO management gets harder, Coinfinity stays committed to self-custody. They are open to optional custodial tools in the future, but always paired with education, and always encouraging users to take their bitcoin off-platform when the time is right.

“If we ever offer custodial services, it would only be to help users stack small amounts until they reach a meaningful UTXO size,” Fab explained.

The plan would involve accumulating smaller purchases monthly or weekly until users hit a threshold, maybe a million sats, then withdrawing to self-custody. “We don’t want to play games with your bitcoin. We don’t want to lend it out or earn interest on it.”

Coinfinity emphasizes on self-custody and education, even in its app

The challenge is real though. When new users first encounter Bitcoin, the technical barriers can be overwhelming. “Often causes problems with people just getting into Bitcoin who don’t understand what self custody is” Fab notes.

That’s why they built their in-app wallet, to smooth the onboarding while maintaining their self-custody values. “The in-app wallet was our first step toward optimizing user experience without compromising our core value of bringing bitcoin into self-custody,” he said.

“One of our taglines is ‘bringing Bitcoin to the people’ and we literally mean that. We want to bring bitcoin to them, not keep it from them.”

Another promising thing the company is doing in their operations is using AI to create more content, faster. Podcast scripts, educational summaries, internal tools, Fab’s even feeding Austrian economics PDFs into models to keep the tone on-brand and Bitcoin-only.

“We’re using these tools in our business development and marketing teams to generate more output with the same number of people,” he said. But the future looks even more exciting.

“Maybe one day we’ll have a tutor in the app where you can do a video call and ask ‘What is a Bitcoin address?’ and it will talk back to you naturally, going deeper as you ask more questions,” Fab explained. “That’s absolutely possible.”

The technology isn’t quite there yet for mainstream deployment in their app, but Fab is optimistic. “I’m sure that in the future, this won’t just be used for improving our internal workflow, but for enhancing the content itself,” he said.

It’s not a pipe dream. The tech is already close. The only thing missing is more Bitcoin-native data and companies like Coinfinity are quietly building that layer.

One of the favorite parts of these interviews is asking the builders in the space what they would ask Satoshi if given one question. When I asked Fab what he’d ask Bitcoin’s creator, he didn’t hesitate:

“Did you purposely build Bitcoin based on Austrian economics, or did it just happen by accident?

“All this monetization theory, Bitcoin being a store of value first, is this something you actually thought was possible and had in mind? Or was it just a lucky shot that accidentally gave us the best monetary properties?”

Because if Satoshi had built Bitcoin with a 2% inflation rate, like some other projects, it might’ve worked. But it wouldn’t have lasted.

“He could have made it with 2% tail emission, it still would have been decentralized. But then today, someone might introduce a coin with a fixed supply that could kill Bitcoin,” Fab noted.

Fab suspects the fixed supply wasn’t an accident. And thank God for that.

What’s remarkable about Coinfinity isn’t just their Austrian approach or their self-custody obsession, it’s how they’re proving that education-first Bitcoin companies can compete with the flashy crypto casinos dominating the space.

Coinfinity doesn’t serve U.S. customers. They’re focused on Europe, operating within EU regulations. But what they’re building, honest Bitcoin education, smart tools, and a relentless push for financial sovereignty, matters everywhere.

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

That’s exactly what Simplified Privacy VPN is offering: a new kind of privacy tool that feels more like spinning up a secure, disposable virtual browser than using a traditional VPN.

Most of us know what a VPN is: it hides your IP address, encrypts your traffic, and gives you a bit more control over your privacy online. But what if you could go way beyond that—without setting up a complicated system, running a full virtual machine, or revealing anything about yourself?

What Makes It Different?

When I tried it myself, I realized this wasn’t just another VPN. It didn’t just route my traffic—it gave me access to a completely separate browsing environment. Imagine logging into a private, anonymous machine in the cloud, one that:

• Has its own browser and system settings
• Can’t see your personal files, history, or identity
• Randomizes details like screen size and timezone
• Leaves no trace once you’re done

This isn’t just hiding your IP—it’s giving you a fresh, secure web session that’s disconnected from your actual device.

Simplified Privacy VPN: The Lightning-Powered Twist

Here’s where it gets even cooler for us in the Lightning world: access costs just $1 in bitcoin via the Lightning Network.

You send a few sats, and within seconds you get access to a private browser session that lasts for a full month. Want a different profile or setup? Just pay another dollar and spin up a new one—no account, no email, no friction.

You can create as many instances as you like, each with its own identity. This is microtransaction-based privacy in action—exactly the kind of innovation Lightning enables.

Excellent Support, Secure Channels

I also tested their support team with a couple of questions—one technical issue and one feature request. Support is offered through secure, privacy-respecting channels, including Session chat. Responses were fast, friendly, and helpful. Even more impressive: my feature request was implemented not long after I sent it in.

In a space where many privacy tools leave you to figure things out on your own, this kind of responsive support makes a big difference.

Why This Matters

For journalists, activists, developers, or just regular folks who don’t want Big Tech watching their every move, this setup is a game-changer:

• More realistic protection than just using incognito mode or a VPN
• No need to trust the website, since this system isolates the browser to its own filesystem
• No need to trust the app, since it doesn’t require root access or your system password.
• Instant access with no signup or personal info
• Perfect match for Lightning’s low-cost, no-middleman model

One Note of Caution

While the system is impressive and genuinely different from anything I’ve seen, the project is still early and niche. The website and team aren’t as well-known as major VPN providers. So use it like any experimental tool—test it, learn from it, but don’t put all your trust in one basket yet.

Final Thoughts

In a world where online tracking is getting creepier and centralized control is tightening, SimplifiedPrivacy.com is pushing in the opposite direction: easy, user-controlled privacy with zero setup and lightning-fast access.

If you’ve got a dollar and a need for a little online invisibility, this might be one of the best ways to spend your sats.

@ f0fd6902:a2fbaaab

https://stacker.news/items/1008542

@ f0fd6902:a2fbaaab

There are some amazing places in Georgia to see monarch butterflies! Journey North, an organization that allows users to report monarch sightings, has some great information on the best sightings in Georgia! One great place is Savannah. Known for its historical architecture and beautiful parks, Savannah is also a famous spot to see monarchs! Places such as Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge help with the conservation of monarchs to support them on their migration south. This makes it a great place to observe the monarchs.

https://stacker.news/items/1008538

@ e1cde248:609c13b0

Arthur Hayes ได้ฉายภาพหนึ่งในปัญหาใหญ่ที่สุดที่เศรษฐกิจโลกกำลังเผชิญ นั่นคือ "ศึกเงียบระหว่างคนรุ่นเก่าและรุ่นใหม่" ที่กำลังจะปะทุขึ้นจากการโอนถ่ายความมั่งคั่งขนาดมหาศาลจากรุ่น Baby Boomer ไปยัง Millennials และ Gen Z

ในอีกไม่กี่ปีข้างหน้า คนรุ่น Boomer ซึ่งเป็นกลุ่มที่ถือครองทรัพย์สินมากที่สุดในประวัติศาสตร์ กำลังเข้าสู่วัยเกษียณ และเริ่มขายสินทรัพย์อย่างหุ้น บ้าน และอสังหาริมทรัพย์ เพื่อเปลี่ยนเป็นเงินสดใช้ในบั้นปลายชีวิต

แต่ปัญหาคือ... ใครจะซื้อของเหล่านั้น?

คนรุ่นใหม่ไม่ได้มองบ้านหลังใหญ่ในชานเมืองหรือหุ้นบริษัทน้ำมันเป็นเป้าหมายชีวิตอีกต่อไป พวกเขาให้คุณค่ากับ "ประสบการณ์" มากกว่าสิ่งของ อีกทั้งยังสนใจ "สินทรัพย์ดิจิทัล" มากกว่าทรัพย์สินแบบดั้งเดิม และเชื่อในอิสระมากกว่าความมั่นคง

สิ่งนี้นำไปสู่คำถามสำคัญที่อาจเปลี่ยนทิศทางเศรษฐกิจโลก:

1. หากไม่มีใครอยากซื้อ สินทรัพย์จะราคาตกหรือไม่? ถ้าเกิดขึ้นจริง นั่นหมายถึงคนรุ่น Boomer จะต้องเกษียณด้วยสินทรัพย์ที่มีมูลค่าลดลง และอาจต้องพึ่งพารัฐบาลมากขึ้น

2. แล้วภาระจะตกกับใคร? หากรัฐบาลต้องอุ้มค่าใช้จ่ายผู้เกษียณ สิ่งที่ตามมาคือ "ภาษีที่เพิ่มขึ้น" ซึ่งจะตกอยู่กับคนรุ่นใหม่ที่แทบยังไม่มีอะไรในมือ

3. หรือสุดท้าย ทางออกเดียวจะคือการ “พิมพ์เงิน”? Hayes คาดว่ารัฐบาลจะหันไปใช้วิธีนี้ ซึ่งอาจช่วยได้ในระยะสั้น แต่จะกลายเป็นเชื้อเพลิงเงินเฟ้อในระยะยาว

และนั่นคือจุดที่ "ความไม่พอใจระหว่างรุ่น" อาจปะทุขึ้นอย่างรุนแรง

คนรุ่นใหม่จะถามว่า "ทำไมเราต้องจ่ายเพื่อความล้มเหลวของระบบที่เราไม่ได้สร้าง?" ขณะที่คนรุ่นเก่าอาจตอบว่า "เราเสียภาษีมาทั้งชีวิตเพื่อระบบนี้ แล้วใครจะดูแลเรา?"

นี่ไม่ใช่แค่ความต่างทางวัย แต่คือ ความขัดแย้งทางโครงสร้างเศรษฐกิจและคุณค่าของชีวิต ที่กำลังทวีความรุนแรงขึ้น

Hayes มองว่า ผลลัพธ์ของความขัดแย้งนี้ อาจมีตั้งแต่การปรับขึ้นภาษีรุนแรง การเปลี่ยนแปลงระบบบำนาญ ไปจนถึง ความไม่มั่นคงทางการเงินระดับชาติ ที่อาจเปลี่ยนวิธีที่โลกจัดการกับเงิน สินทรัพย์ และอนาคตของคนแต่ละรุ่นไปอย่างสิ้นเชิง

และในโลกแบบนี้ Hayes ถึงเชื่อว่า Bitcoin จะเป็นผู้ชนะ เพราะมันไม่สามารถพิมพ์เพิ่มได้ ซึ่งตรงข้ามกับเงินเฟ้อที่กำลังมาท่วมโลก

source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AH7TIPRKGZw

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

Trump Media & Technology Group is targeting the digital asset market by registering a Bitcoin and Ethereum exchange-traded fund (ETF) with NYSE Arca.

On June 16, Truth Social — a company controlled by Trump Media & Technology Group — officially submitted documentation for a Bitcoin and Ethereum-based Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

NEW: Trump's Truth Social has filed for a dual Bitcoin & Ethereum ETF. pic.twitter.com/a5iZtrtUyk

— James Seyffart (@JSeyff) June 16, 2025

This initiative would allow the social media platform to diversify its operations by entering the digital asset sector through these financial products.

The filing proposes a trust structure that would directly hold bitcoin and ether, with 75% of the fund’s assets invested in bitcoin and 25% in ether.

The Truth Social Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF will have Yorkville America Digital as the fund’s sponsor, while custody of the digital assets will be entrusted to the Crypto.com exchange.

The choice of NYSE Arca as the listing venue for the fund is no coincidence: this market already hosts several cryptocurrency-linked ETFs and offers the necessary technological infrastructure to manage these financial instruments.

Trump Media & Technology Group’s move aligns with a broader trend in which public companies are increasingly integrating Bitcoin and other digital assets into their corporate treasuries.

Devin Nunes, CEO of Trump Media & Technology Group, stated:

“Trump Media’s vision is to aggressively enhance our offerings and capabilities, which includes holding bitcoin in our corporate treasury.”

The final approval of the Truth Social Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF will depend on the outcome of the regulatory review process at the SEC, which must assess the product’s compliance with current regulations on exchange-traded funds and cryptocurrency investments.

The post Truth Social files for Bitcoin-Ethereum ETF appeared first on Atlas21.

@ 88cc134b:5ae99079

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

This article was originally published on dev.to by satshacker.

Alright, you’ve built a useful and beautiful website, tool or app. However, monetization isn’t a priority and you’d rather keep the project free, ads-free and accessible?

Accepting donations would be an option, but how? A PayPal button? Stripe? Buymeacoffe? Patreon?

All of these services require a bank account and KYC verification, before you can send and receive donations – not very convenient.

If we only could send value over the internet, with just one click and without the need of a bank account…

Oh, hold on, that’s bitcoin. The decentralized protocol to send value across the globe. Money over TCP/IP.

In this article, we’ll learn how anyone can easily add a payment button or donation widget on a website or app.

Let’s get into it.

Introduction

Bitcoin is digital money that you can send and receive without the need for banks. While bitcoin is extremely secure, it’s not very fast. The maximum transactions per second (TPS) the network can handle is about 7. Obviously that’s not useful for daily payments or microtransactions.

If you’d like to dig deeper into how bitcoin works, a great read is “Mastering Bitcoin” by Andreas Antonopoulos.

Bitcoin vs Lightning

If you’d like to receive bitcoin donations “on-chain” all you need is a bitcoin wallet. You simply display your bitcoin address on your site and that’s it. You can receive donations.

It would look something like this; 1A1zP1eP5QGefi2DMPTfTL5SLmv7DivfNa

Instead of showing the actual bitcoin address, you can also turn it into a QR code.

However, this is not a recommended solution. Using static on-chain addresses has two major downsides. It lowers privacy for you and your donnors and it’s a UTXO disaster because many small incoming transactions could beocme hard to consolidate in the future.

For donations and small transactions, the Lightning Network is the better option. Lightning allows for instant settlement with fees only a fraction of a cent.

Similar to bitcoin, you have the choice between non-custodial and custodial wallets. This means, either you have full control over your money or the wallet provider has.

Option 1: Lightning Address

With the lightning address feature, you an easily receive donations to an email like address.

It looks like this: yourname@wallet.com

Many wallets support lightning addresses and make it easy to create one. Then, you simple add the address to your donation page and you’re ready to receive tips.

You can also add a link link as in lightning:yourname@wallet.com and compatible lightning wallets and browser wallets will detect the address.

How to get a Lightning Address Fast

Option 2: Lightning Donation Widgets

If you like to take it a step further, you can also create a more enhanced donation checkout flow. Of course you could programm something yourself, there are many open source libraries you can build upon. If you want a simple plug-and-play solution, here are a couple of options:

Name

Type

Registration

SatSale

Self-hosted

No KYC

BTCPay Server

Self-hosted

No KYC

Pay With Flash

Widget

Email

Geyser Fund

Widget

Email

The Giving Block

Hosted

KYC

OpenNode

Hosted

KYC

---

SatSale (GitHub)

Lightweight, self-hosted Bitcoin/Lightning payment processor. No KYC.

Ideal for developers comfortable with server management. Simple to deploy, supports both on-chain and Lightning, and integrates with WooCommerce.

---

BTCPay Server

Powerful, open-source, self-hosted processor for Bitcoin and Lightning. No KYC.

Supports multiple currencies, advanced features, and full privacy. Requires technical setup and maintenance. Funds go directly to your wallet; great for those seeking full control.

---

Pay With Flash

Easiest for indie hackers. Add a donation widget with minimal code and no KYC. Payments go directly to your wallet for a 1.5% fee.

Setup Steps:

1. Sign up at PayWithFlash.com
2. Customize your widget in the dashboard
3. Embed the code:

1. Test to confirm functionality

Benefits:

• Minimal technical skills required
• Supports one-time or recurring donations
• Direct fund transfer, no intermediaries

---

Geyser Fund

Crowdfunding platform. Widget-based, connects to your wallet, email registration.Focused on Bitcoin crowdfunding, memberships and donations.

---

The Giving Block

Hosted, KYC required. Integrates with fiat and crypto, best for nonprofits or larger organizations.

---

OpenNode

Hosted, KYC required. Accept Bitcoin payments and donations; supports conversion to fiat, suitable for businesses and nonprofits.

---

Summary

• Fast, low-code setup: Use Pay With Flash or Geyser Fund.
• Privacy and control: Choose SatSale or BTCPay Server (requires technical skills).
• Managed, compliant solutions: The Giving Block or OpenNode.

Choose based on your technical comfort, privacy needs, and project scale.

I hope this article helped you. If you added bitcoin donations, share your link in the comments and I will send you a few satoshis maybe

@ dfa02707:41ca50e3

Contribute to keep No Bullshit Bitcoin news going.

• Version 1.3 of Bitcoin Safe introduces a redesigned interactive chart, quick receive feature, updated icons, a mempool preview window, support for Child Pays For Parent (CPFP) and testnet4, preconfigured testnet demo wallets, as well as various bug fixes and improvements.

• Upcoming updates for Bitcoin Safe include Compact Block Filters.

"Compact Block Filters increase the network privacy dramatically, since you're not asking an electrum server to give you your transactions. They are a little slower than electrum servers. For a savings wallet like Bitcoin Safe this should be OK," writes the project's developer Andreas Griffin.

• Learn more about the current and upcoming features of Bitcoin Safe wallet here.

What's new in v1.3

• Redesign of Chart, Quick Receive, Icons, and Mempool Preview (by @design-rrr).
• Interactive chart. Clicking on it now jumps to transaction, and selected transactions are now highlighted.

• Speed up transactions with Child Pays For Parent (CPFP).
• BDK 1.2 (upgraded from 0.32).
• Testnet4 support.
• Preconfigured Testnet demo wallets.
• Cluster unconfirmed transactions so that parents/children are next to each other.
• Customizable columns for all tables (optional view: Txid, Address index, and more)
• Bug fixes and other improvements.

Announcement / Archive
Blog Post / Archive
GitHub Repo
Website

@ e1cde248:609c13b0

ในการกล่าวสุนทรพจน์หลักในงาน Bitcoin 2025 ไมเคิล เซย์เลอร์ (Michael Saylor) นักเคลื่อนไหวชื่อดังด้านบิตคอยน์และซีอีโอของบริษัท MicroStrategy ได้บรรยายหัวข้อที่ทรงพลังชื่อว่า "21 วิธีสู่ความมั่งคั่ง" เขาได้เสนอเส้นทางเชิงกลยุทธ์สำหรับบุคคลทั่วไป ครอบครัว และธุรกิจขนาดเล็ก ในการบรรลุความมั่งคั่งทางการเงินผ่านบิตคอยน์

ต่างจากคำพูดก่อนหน้าของเขาที่มุ่งเป้าไปที่สถาบันและรัฐบาล คำพูดนี้ถูกออกแบบมาสำหรับผู้คนทั้ง 8 พันล้านคน บนโลก โดยเน้นขั้นตอนปฏิบัติที่สามารถใช้บิตคอยน์เป็นทรัพย์สินเปลี่ยนชีวิตอย่างแท้จริง ด้านล่างนี้คือการสำรวจเชิงลึกใน 21 หลักการ ของเซย์เลอร์ ซึ่งเปรียบเสมือนพิมพ์เขียวในการสร้างความมั่งคั่งในยุคดิจิทัล:

1. ความชัดเจน (Clarity): เข้าใจบิตคอยน์ในฐานะทุนที่สมบูรณ์แบบ เซย์เลอร์เริ่มต้นด้วยแนวคิดเรื่อง “ความชัดเจน” โดยเน้นว่าบิตคอยน์คือ "ทุนที่ถูกออกแบบอย่างสมบูรณ์" ซึ่งไม่สามารถถูกทำลายหรือดัดแปลงได้ ความเข้าใจนี้เป็นพื้นฐานสำคัญในการยอมรับศักยภาพของบิตคอยน์ในฐานะรากฐานของความมั่งคั่ง

2. ความเชื่อมั่น (Conviction): ศรัทธาในศักยภาพการเติบโตเหนือกว่า เซย์เลอร์ยืนยันว่าบิตคอยน์ถูกออกแบบมาให้เติบโตเร็วกว่าสินทรัพย์ทั่วไป เช่น หุ้น ทองคำ หรืออสังหาริมทรัพย์ การมีความเชื่อมั่นอย่างแท้จริงเป็นสิ่งจำเป็นต่อการให้ความสำคัญกับบิตคอยน์เหนือการลงทุนแบบดั้งเดิม

3. ความกล้า (Courage): ยอมรับความเสี่ยงทางการเงินอย่างชาญฉลาด บิตคอยน์คือการยอมรับความเสี่ยงที่คำนวณได้อย่างชาญฉลาด ไม่ใช่ความกลัวหรือการพนัน ผู้ที่ "เติมเชื้อไฟ" ให้กับระบบนี้คือผู้ที่เปลี่ยนเงินเฟียตหรือสินทรัพย์ด้อยค่ามาเป็นบิตคอยน์

4. ความร่วมมือ (Cooperation): ผนึกกำลังในครอบครัวเพื่อความแข็งแกร่ง เมื่อครอบครัวร่วมมือกัน ศักยภาพในการสร้างความมั่งคั่งจะเพิ่มทวีคูณ เซย์เลอร์เสนอให้ครอบครัวผสานความสามารถและทรัพยากร เพื่อผลักดันกันและกันสู่อนาคตที่ดีกว่า

5. ความสามารถ (Capability): เชี่ยวชาญปัญญาประดิษฐ์ ในปี 2025 AI เป็นกุญแจสำคัญในการปลดล็อกโอกาสทางการเงินระดับสูง โดยที่บุคคลทั่วไปสามารถเข้าถึงคำแนะนำจากทนาย นักบัญชี หรือผู้เชี่ยวชาญ โดยไม่เสียค่าใช้จ่าย

6. การจัดวางโครงสร้าง (Composition): สร้างนิติบุคคลเพื่อป้องกันและขยายผล การตั้งบริษัท ทรัสต์ หรือโครงสร้างทางกฎหมาย เช่น IRA หรือ 401(k) คือวิธีเพิ่มประสิทธิภาพในการลงทุนบิตคอยน์อย่างปลอดภัยและถูกกฎหมาย

7. สัญชาติทางเศรษฐกิจ (Citizenship): เลือกฐานภาษีอย่างชาญฉลาด เลือกอยู่ในพื้นที่หรือประเทศที่เป็นมิตรกับบิตคอยน์ เช่น ฟลอริดา หรือประเทศอย่างสิงคโปร์ เพื่อลดภาระภาษีและเพิ่มเสถียรภาพระยะยาว

8. ความสุภาพ (Civility): เคารพโครงสร้างอำนาจ ไม่จำเป็นต้องล้มล้างระบบเก่า เพียงแค่รู้จักเคารพอำนาจและสร้างพันธมิตรในทางที่สร้างสรรค์เพื่อเดินหน้ากับบิตคอยน์ได้

9. การใช้บริษัท (Corporation): บริษัทคือเครื่องจักรสร้างความมั่งคั่ง บริษัทสามารถใช้ประโยชน์จากระบบการเงินและภาษีได้ดีกว่าปัจเจกบุคคล จึงควรจัดตั้งนิติบุคคลเพื่อลงทุนในบิตคอยน์อย่างจริงจัง

10. โฟกัส (Focus): อย่าหลงทาง อย่าวอกแวกไปกับธุรกิจเสี่ยงสูงหรือเหรียญอื่น ๆ เพราะบิตคอยน์มีประวัติผลตอบแทนสูงอย่างสม่ำเสมอ

11. การมีส่วนร่วม (Equity): ร่วมมือกับนักลงทุน ให้ผู้อื่นร่วมลงทุนในกิจการของคุณ เช่น หมอฟันอาจขายหุ้นบางส่วนของคลินิกเพื่อนำเงินไปลงทุนในบิตคอยน์

12. เครดิต (Credit): ใช้หนี้เป็นเครื่องมือ กู้เงินดอกเบี้ยต่ำและลงทุนในบิตคอยน์ที่มีแนวโน้มเติบโตสูง เพื่อทำกำไรจากส่วนต่างระหว่างดอกเบี้ยกับผลตอบแทน

13. การปฏิบัติตามกฎ (Compliance): ทำตามกฎหมาย สร้างบริษัทที่สอดคล้องกับกฎระเบียบเพื่อขยายเงินทุนได้อย่างมั่นคงและปลอดภัย

14. การระดมทุน (Capitalization): หาเงินลงทุนอย่างต่อเนื่อง ไม่ว่าจะจากการขายหุ้น หรือรีไฟแนนซ์ทรัพย์สินส่วนตัว ทุกโอกาสคือช่องทางในการระดมทุนและลงทุนต่อในบิตคอยน์

15. การสื่อสาร (Communication): โปร่งใสและจริงใจ การเปิดเผยแผนและเป้าหมายอย่างชัดเจนจะสร้างความไว้วางใจจากนักลงทุน พนักงาน และลูกค้า

16. ความมุ่งมั่น (Commitment): อยู่กับบิตคอยน์ ไม่หลงทาง หลีกเลี่ยงเหรียญอื่น ๆ หรือโปรเจกต์ที่ไม่มั่นคง ยึดมั่นในบิตคอยน์เพื่อเสถียรภาพระยะยาว

17. การลงมือทำ (Delivery): ลงมือจริงอย่างแม่นยำ ไม่ใช่แค่คิด แต่ต้องทำอย่างมีประสิทธิภาพ สม่ำเสมอ และไม่ประมาท

18. การปรับตัว (Adaptation): พร้อมเปลี่ยนแปลงเมื่อจำเป็น ระบบใด ๆ ก็มีวันล้มเหลว การปรับตัวตามสถานการณ์คือสิ่งที่ทำให้ยืนหยัดได้ในระยะยาว

19. วิวัฒนาการ (Evolution): เติบโตจากจุดแข็ง ขยายธุรกิจจากสิ่งที่คุณเชี่ยวชาญ แทนที่จะพยายามเริ่มสิ่งใหม่จากศูนย์

20. การเผยแพร่ (Advocacy): เป็นกระบอกเสียงเพื่อเสรีภาพทางเศรษฐกิจ บอกต่อและสอนผู้อื่นให้เข้าใจบิตคอยน์ เพื่อขยายเครือข่ายแห่งความมั่งคั่ง

21. ความเอื้อเฟื้อ (Generosity): แบ่งปันความสำเร็จ การช่วยเหลือครอบครัว ชุมชน และพนักงาน ด้วยทรัพยากรที่คุณมี จะสร้างความสุขทั้งต่อตัวคุณและโลก

เซย์เลอร์จบท้ายด้วยคำของซาโตชิ นากาโมโตะว่า:

“มันอาจจะดีถ้ามี bitcoin ไว้บ้าง เผื่อว่ามันจะกลายเป็นสิ่งสำคัญในอนาคต”

หลังจาก 16 ปีแห่งการเติบโตและมูลค่าตลาดกว่า 2 ล้านล้านดอลลาร์ หลักการทั้ง 21 ข้อนี้คือพิมพ์เขียวแห่งเสรีภาพทางการเงิน ที่รวมเอาความชัดเจน ความกล้า และเครื่องมืออย่าง AI, การจัดตั้งบริษัท และเครดิต เข้าด้วยกัน เพื่อให้ทุกคนสามารถใช้บิตคอยน์สร้างอนาคตที่ดีกว่าได้

@ 502ab02a:a2860397

ปี 1937 — บริษัท Hormel Foods Corporation ในเมืองออสติน รัฐมินนิโซตา สหรัฐฯ ชายคนหนึ่งชื่อ Jay C. Hormel ลูกชายของผู้ก่อตั้งบริษัท มีไอเดียแสนทะเยอทะยานว่า “อยากทำผลิตภัณฑ์จากหมู ที่เก็บได้นาน ไม่ต้องแช่เย็น และไม่แพง”

เพราะตอนนั้น หมูเหลือเยอะ โดยเฉพาะ “หัวไหล่หมู” ที่ขายไม่ออก เพราะมันไม่ใช่ชิ้นเนื้อพรีเมียมที่คนอยากซื้อไปทำอาหาร เจย์เลยทดลองบดเนื้อไหล่หมู เติมเกลือ น้ำตาล สารกันเสีย โซเดียมไนไตรต์ และสิ่งสำคัญสุดคือ เจลาตินจากน้ำต้มกระดูก เพื่อให้เนื้อเกาะตัว ไม่แห้ง และอยู่ได้นานโดยไม่ต้องแช่เย็น

ผลลัพธ์คือ หมูกระป๋อง 340 กรัมในกล่องสี่เหลี่ยม พร้อมเปิดฝาดึงด้วยมือ ไม่ต้องใช้ที่เปิดกระป๋อง ชูความ ราคาถูก เก็บง่าย พกพาสะดวก และไม่ต้องปรุงอะไรเพิ่มเติม ซ่อนความของเหลือเอาไว้เงียบๆ

และเพื่อให้คนจำได้ง่าย บริษัทจัดประกวดตั้งชื่อ และผู้ชนะเสนอคำว่า “Spam” = Spiced Ham (แต่ไม่มีใครรู้จริงๆ ว่าย่อจากอะไรแน่) แค่ “สั้น จัดจ้าน และจำง่าย” ก็พอ

เมื่อเกิดสงครามโลกครั้งที่ 2 ในปี 1939 สหรัฐฯ ยังไม่เข้าสงครามเต็มตัว แต่เริ่มเตรียมเสบียงสนับสนุนพันธมิตร และ Spam กลายเป็นของขวัญจากพระเจ้า เพราะ เก็บได้นานหลายปี ไม่ต้องแช่เย็น น้ำหนักเบา เปิดง่าย ไม่เสียง่ายแม้เจอฝุ่น โคลน หรือไอร้อนจากปืนใหญ่

รัฐบาลสหรัฐฯ เริ่มจัดสั่ง Spam ให้กับกองทัพในสัดส่วนที่มากขึ้นเรื่อยๆ โดยเฉพาะทหารแนวหน้าในยุโรปและแปซิฟิก เช่น ฮาวาย, ฟิลิปปินส์, กวม, และเกาหลี ระหว่างสงคราม Hormel ผลิต Spam มากถึง 15 ล้านกระป๋องต่อสัปดาห์ และส่งออกไปมากกว่า 100 ล้านกระป๋อง ภายในเวลาไม่กี่ปี

Jay C. Hormel ถือว่ามีบทบาททางสังคมและการเมืองอยู่ไม่น้อย โดยเฉพาะช่วงก่อนสงครามโลกครั้งที่ 2

เขาเคยเป็นสมาชิกของ America First Committee ซึ่งเป็นกลุ่มเคลื่อนไหวทางการเมืองที่มีอิทธิพลมากในช่วงก่อนสงครามโลกครั้งที่ 2 โดยกลุ่มนี้มีเป้าหมายคือ “ต่อต้านการที่อเมริกาจะเข้าไปร่วมสงครามในยุโรป” สมาชิกของกลุ่มนี้มีทั้งนักธุรกิจใหญ่ สื่อมวลชน นักวิชาการ รวมถึงชาร์ลส ลินด์เบิร์ก (นักบินชื่อดัง) เรียกได้ว่าเป็นกลุ่มที่มีอิทธิพลเชิงความคิดและการเมืองในช่วงปลายยุค 1930s

แม้ในตอนแรก Hormel จะมีแนวคิดไม่เห็นด้วยกับการเข้าสงคราม แต่พอสงครามเริ่มต้นจริง และสหรัฐฯ ต้องส่งทหารและเสบียงออกไปรบ เขาก็ “ปรับตัวทันที” และกลายเป็นหนึ่งในผู้จัดหาอาหารรายใหญ่ให้กองทัพ โดยเฉพาะ Spam ที่ผลิตส่งเป็นล้านกระป๋องต่อสัปดาห์ ซึ่งแน่นอนว่าไม่มีทางทำได้ถ้าไม่มีความสัมพันธ์และการประสานงานกับภาครัฐโดยตรง

หลังสงครามโลกสิ้นสุดในปี 1945 สิ่งที่รัฐบาลและภาคธุรกิจต้องเจอคือ จะทำยังไงกับโรงงานผลิตอาหารที่เคยทำเพื่อ “เลี้ยงทหารนับล้าน” แต่ตอนนี้ไม่มีสงครามแล้ว? Hormel ไม่ยอมให้ Spam หายไปจากโต๊ะอาหารโลกง่ายๆ แผนการตลาดที่ฉลาดมากของพวกเขาคือ 1. “Sell the nostalgia” ขายความทรงจำ! คนอเมริกันที่เป็นทหารผ่านศึก กลับมาใช้ชีวิตปกติ แต่ก็ยังคุ้นเคยกับ Spam อยู่แล้ว ก็ขายให้พวกเขานั่นแหละ 2. “ผูกกับอาหารเช้า” Hormel ทำสูตร “Spam and eggs” และโฆษณาว่าเป็นอาหารเช้าที่ให้พลังงาน ย่อยง่าย และเหมาะกับทุกครอบครัว 3. เจาะตลาดประเทศที่ได้รับ Spam ระหว่างสงคราม ฟิลิปปินส์, ฮาวาย, ญี่ปุ่น, เกาหลีใต้, อังกฤษ กลายเป็นตลาดหลัก บางประเทศพัฒนาเมนูท้องถิ่นกับ Spam เช่น ฟิลิปปินส์ Spam silog (Spam + ข้าว + ไข่ดาว), เกาหลี 부대찌개 (Budae-jjigae) หรือหม้อไฟทหาร, ญี่ปุ่น Spam onigiri, ฮาวาย Spam musubi (สแปมวางบนข้าว ปิดด้วยสาหร่าย) 4. สร้างแบรนด์ให้รัก Hormel สนับสนุนการจัดงานเทศกาล Spam (เช่น Spam Jam) และทำให้แบรนด์กลายเป็น Pop Culture ของอเมริกา เพื่อโปรโมตแบรนด์ให้เป็นของอเมริกันจ๋า ทั้งน่ารัก ทั้งเท่ ทั้งกินง่าย และกลายเป็นความภูมิใจของชนชั้นกลาง

ระหว่างปี 1937–1946 Spam สร้างชื่อให้ Hormel อย่างถล่มทลาย ถึงขั้นรัฐบาลโซเวียตยังเคยร้องขอให้สหรัฐฯ ส่ง Spam เข้าโซเวียตเพื่อเลี้ยงทหารแนวหน้า โดย นายพล Dwight D. Eisenhower (ต่อมาคือประธานาธิบดีสหรัฐฯ) เคยกล่าวว่า “I ate my share of Spam along with millions of other soldiers. I’ll even confess to a few unkind remarks about it—uttered during the strain of battle... But as former Commander in Chief, I believe I can still see Spam in my dreams.” (ฉันกิน Spam มากพอๆ กับทหารหลายล้านคน แม้จะเคยบ่นบ้าง แต่ในฐานะอดีตแม่ทัพใหญ่...ฉันยังฝันเห็นมันเลย)

Jay C. Hormel ไม่ใช่แค่คนขายหมู แต่เขาเป็นนักวางระบบอุตสาหกรรมขั้นเทพ สามารถยกระดับกิจการท้องถิ่นของพ่อให้กลายเป็นบริษัทอาหารที่ส่งออกระดับโลกได้ เขาเป็น early adopter ของสิ่งที่เรียกว่า vertical integration คือควบคุมทุกขั้นตอน ตั้งแต่ฟาร์ม โรงฆ่าสัตว์ โรงงาน บรรจุภัณฑ์ จนถึงการขนส่งและการตลาด

ในปี 1970s รายการตลกชื่อดังของอังกฤษอย่าง Monty Python’s Flying Circus ได้เอา Spam มาเล่นมุกในตอนหนึ่ง โดยฉากคือร้านอาหารที่ทุกเมนูมี Spam อยู่ในนั้น แล้วลูกค้าพยายามสั่งอาหารโดยไม่เอา Spam แต่ร้านไม่ยอม เพราะ “เมนูเรามี Spam ทุกอย่าง!” จนเสียงลูกค้ากับแม่ค้ากลายเป็นการโต้เถียงอันแสนตลก และมีนักแสดงแต่งเป็นไวกิ้งยืนร้อง “Spam, Spam, Spam, Spam...” ซ้ำๆ อยู่ด้านหลังแบบไม่รู้จบ https://youtu.be/anwy2MPT5RE?si=-68WQeng47lhJENJ

ฉากนั้นกลายเป็นตำนานในโลกตลก และคำว่า “Spam” ก็เริ่มถูกใช้เป็นคำสแลงหมายถึง “ของที่ซ้ำซาก ไร้สาระ รบกวน” ซึ่งต่อมาก็กลายเป็นคำที่เราใช้เรียกอีเมลหรือข้อความขยะนั่นเอง

จะว่าไปแล้ว Spam ถือเป็น “สินค้าที่ครอบงำและเปลี่ยนแปลงอาหารของโลกอีกตัวนึง” อย่างแท้จริง จากเศษหมูไร้คนซื้อ → สินค้าแห่งนวัตกรรมอาหาร → เสบียงสงคราม → อาหารเช้าคลาสสิก → วัฒนธรรมท้องถิ่น → Meme ตลก → และสุดท้ายก็กลายเป็นคำด่าบนอินเทอร์เน็ต

Jay C. Hormel ไม่ได้เป็นนักการเมือง แต่เขาเป็น “นักอุตสาหกรรมที่มีบทบาททางการเมือง” โดยเฉพาะในช่วงเปลี่ยนผ่านของประเทศจาก “ไม่เอาสงคราม” ไปสู่ “ต้องชนะสงคราม”

เขาอาจเริ่มจากแนวคิด “อย่ายุ่งเรื่องคนอื่น” แต่พอเห็นว่าโอกาสมา เขาก็เปลี่ยนโหมดทันที และทำให้ Spam กลายเป็นเสบียงระดับชาติ แบบนี้แหละเฮียถึงบอกว่า “สงครามทำให้คนธรรมดากลายเป็นตำนาน” ...หรือไม่ก็ “สงครามทำให้ธุรกิจธรรมดากลายเป็นธุรกิจผูกขาดที่ไม่มีใครเลิกกินได้อีกเลย”

Spam ไม่ใช่แค่อาหารกระป๋อง แต่เป็นเครื่องมือทางภูมิสงคราม อุตสาหกรรม และการตลาด จากห้องครัวทดลองเล็กๆ ในมินนิโซตา กลายเป็นไอเท็มในสนามรบระดับโลก และสุดท้าย…ก็กลายเป็นทั้ง อาหารในตู้, มุกในมุขตลก, และ คำด่าบนโลกออนไลน์ ทั้งหมดนี้เริ่มต้นจากคำเดียว... "หมูมันเหลือ"

#pirateketo #กูต้องรู้มั๊ย #ม้วนหางสิลูก #siamstr

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

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"Privacy is necessary for an open society in the electronic age. Privacy is not secrecy.  A private matter is something one doesn't want the whole world to know, but a secret matter is something one doesn't want anybody to know. Privacy is the power to selectively reveal oneself to the world." - Eric Hughes, A Cypherpunk's Manifesto, 1993

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Privacy is essential to freedom. Without privacy, individuals are unable to make choices free from surveillance and control. Lack of privacy leads to loss of autonomy. When individuals are constantly monitored it limits our ability to express ourselves and take risks. Any decisions we make can result in negative repercussions from those who surveil us. Without the freedom to make choices, individuals cannot truly be free.

Freedom is essential to acquiring and preserving wealth. When individuals are not free to make choices, restrictions and limitations prevent us from economic opportunities. If we are somehow able to acquire wealth in such an environment, lack of freedom can result in direct asset seizure by governments or other malicious entities. At scale, when freedom is compromised, it leads to widespread economic stagnation and poverty. Protecting freedom is essential to economic prosperity.

The connection between privacy, freedom, and wealth is critical. Without privacy, individuals lose the freedom to make choices free from surveillance and control. While lack of freedom prevents individuals from pursuing economic opportunities and makes wealth preservation nearly impossible. No Privacy? No Freedom. No Freedom? No Wealth.

Rights are not granted. They are taken and defended. Rights are often misunderstood as permission to do something by those holding power. However, if someone can give you something, they can inherently take it from you at will. People throughout history have necessarily fought for basic rights, including privacy and freedom. These rights were not given by those in power, but rather demanded and won through struggle. Even after these rights are won, they must be continually defended to ensure that they are not taken away. Rights are not granted - they are earned through struggle and defended through sacrifice.

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ c1e6505c:02b3157e

Back in March of this year, my friend nostr:nprofile1qyfhwumn8ghj7ctvvahjuat50phjummwv5q35amnwvaz7tmrv968xarjwgh8xampwfkhxarj9e3k7mgqyrcmjyd0r3a9vpe78wpm5l42dq2xwpqwp7aa6fj5gk4gpejuyaxzy06fp23 - a photographer I met on Nostr in the Bitcoin community, though I think he was initially acquainted with me through my photography publication, nostr:nprofile1qyvhwumn8ghj7etvd96x2uewdehhxarjv96xjtn0wfnszrthwden5te0dehhxtnvdakqqgrr6kwm3556hc5akuuqh6u39w8kqq3hxv4kextckgyxjnjtu9c0dutqvkwz — reached out asking if I wanted to be his production assistant for a shoot with David Byrne for his new album, “Who is the Sky?”.

Ahmed and David.

I wasn't too familiar with David before Ahmed asked, but I knew him from the Talking Heads, so obviously I said yes. Then came the logistics of actually making it happen - scheduling everything around and figuring out if I could pull off the trip from South Carolina all the way up to Manhattan.

The Journey North

The drive involved coordinating between Airbnbs and making strategic stops along the way. I stayed at my dad's house for a few days in Charlotte, which I tend to do whenever I travel north. It's always a good stop to see my dad since I don't get to see him very often. From there, I scheduled a couple Airbnbs in Jersey City, where I was able to see my friend Raf - always nice to catch up with him and drop off some rolls of film (watch our interview together here).** **The next day I got another Airbnb in a different city, then drove the following morning to a parking garage in Manhattan that was a block or two from Ahmed's studio.

Sunday Afternoon Studios

The studio is called Sunday Afternoon Studios, and of course I was the first one there - I'm always early to things. I find it better to be early than late, and it's never a problem for me because I usually just end up walking around, taking pictures, and being able to relax without worrying about rushing to get somewhere.

When I told my dad about how this shoot was going to happen, he said, "Make sure to get a picture of him on his bike" - apparently David rides his bike around the city quite often. I kept that in mind, and when David came in, sure enough, he came up the elevator with his bike. I thought of my dad and took a quick picture and sent it to him. He appreciated that, so that was cool.

Davids bike.

The Shoot

The shoot took a few hours, starting at 10 AM and wrapping up around 4:30 PM with cleanup. It was a gread day - I had a lot of fun and was able to learn more on lighting methods and setting up things I'd never worked with before in a professional environment. But I was also doing some documentary work with my Leica M262, so that's what these photos were taken with.

David's outfit, by the way, was extremely heavy - must've been at least 50 pounds or something like that. When I had to put it back in the box to ship it back to wherever it came from, I really noticed how heavy this thing actually was. It was made out of plastic tubing and zip ties and bungee cords and stuff. Actually really cool design work.

Ahmed and his newborn, Harmony.

Video link

I had a great time. Big thanks to Ahmed and crew for this opportunity to help out, meet David, and take some pictures. Really great experience. I feel very grateful for everything.

Thanks for reading.

@ 523a8281:fc94329a

As Web3 enters deeper waters and industrial transformation accelerates, capital is no longer just a driving force for investment and financing but has become the core engine for building ecosystems. Golden Carrot Capital (GC Capital) has emerged as a prominent player in this industry shift. Founded by former Binance executive Gerald Check, GC Capital has quickly grown into a powerhouse behind several blockbuster projects. Driven by its "Investment + Incubation + Ecosystem Co-Building" integrated strategy, GC Capital not only empowers projects but also reshapes the early growth model of Web3.

Unlike traditional capital’s profit-driven logic, GC Capital adheres to the core values of "excellence, integrity, and strategic foresight," dedicated to long-term empowerment and global collaboration for early-stage projects. In the current surge of the Web3 wave, the institution views investment as a leverage tool linking industry, community, and technology. It has never been confined to financial input but deeply participates in project strategy design, business model validation, and ecosystem expansion. GC Capital’s investment footprint spans three major areas: infrastructure, content ecosystems, and the integration of real-world assets (RWA). From Layer2, cross-chain protocols, to GameFi, social platforms, and blockchain + RWA real-world pilot scenarios, each of its bets balances technological value and commercial viability. The institution has established localized teams in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi, forming a global early-stage incubation network. Among its many strategic partnerships, the deep integration with Web3 digital ecosystem platform M3 DAO stands out as GC Capital’s most iconic collaboration model. GC is not only an early investor but also plays a significant role in incubating and launching products such as MarsVerse, MarsChain, and MarsProtocol. Gerald Check himself joined the core management team of M3 DAO to drive technological development, resource integration, and global operational mechanisms. Their cooperation goes beyond on-chain narratives, exploring the digitization path for real-world assets. In Phuket, Thailand, GC Capital and M3 DAO jointly led a $200 million Web3 + gaming + tourism resort project, combining RWA and token economies to enhance asset management efficiency through on-chain governance, offering a new landing template for global capital. GC Capital has also validated the effectiveness of its methodology with remarkable investment results. For example, MetaMars, co-incubated with M3 DAO, saw its token MARS surge more than 35 times after its launch, with monthly growth reaching 400%, becoming a classic example of combining Web3 community and financial mechanisms. The project DeepLink, invested by GC, quickly gained market favor with its AI + cloud gaming platform model, forming a positive synergy with M3’s ecosystem in terms of content and traffic. Projects like Voopay, LoserChick, and Rocket have also achieved more than 10x returns. These results are not coincidental but a concentrated reflection of GC Capital’s long-term, full-chain accompanying strategy. Now, GC Capital is accelerating its global strategic layout. The institution has launched the "Web3 Global Incubator Program," which will support 20 high-potential projects worldwide each year, offering integrated incubation services in technology, market, and community. At the same time, GC has established cross-industry collaboration mechanisms with leading ecosystems such as Animoca Brands, Fantom, and Flow Desk, and spearheaded the M3 Ecosystem Incubation Alliance, aiming to standardize DAO governance mechanisms and Web3 investment frameworks. Additionally, GC Capital plans to set up a "Decentralized Entrepreneurship Academy" to provide global entrepreneurs with systematic training, mentor matching, and financing channel connections, creating a true Web3 talent and innovation platform for the future. In a Web3 industry still filled with short-term speculation and valuation bubbles, GC Capital has paved a more sustainable and systematic path. It is no longer just a venture capital firm but the most stable foundational force behind the Web3 industry chain. Through deep collaboration with M3 DAO and hands-on participation in global multi-scenario landing projects, GC Capital not only creates value in the capital dimension but also redefines the role that the next generation of Web3 investment institutions should play at the industry paradigm level. It understands technological logic, grasps business rhythm, and knows how to find answers that transcend cycles within the folds of time. This resonance between capital and ecosystems is the rare variable that will determine the landscape of Web3’s second half.

@ 2d59d99a:2fe1d17f

Need extra-long bamboo poles for large-scale projects? Bamboo Supply specializes in long bamboo poles ranging from 12 to 30 feet in length. Our extended-length bamboo poles are perfect for construction scaffolding, tall garden supports, flag poles, and architectural features. Each long bamboo pole is carefully harvested and processed to maintain structural integrity across its entire length. These poles offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, making them ideal for applications requiring both reach and durability. Available in various diameters to match your load requirements. Our long bamboo poles ship nationwide with special handling to ensure safe delivery. Contact Bamboo Supply today for custom length requirements and bulk pricing on long bamboo poles.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

Humanity's Natural State Is Chaos
Without order there is chaos. Humans competing with each other for scarce resources naturally leads to conflict until one group achieves significant power and instates a "monopoly on violence."

Power Brings Stability
Power has always been the key means to achieve stability in societies. Centralized power can be incredibly effective in addressing issues such as crime, poverty, and social unrest efficiently. Unfortunately this power is often abused and corrupted.

Centralized Power Breeds Tyranny
Centralized power often leads to tyrannical rule. When a select few individuals hold control over a society, they tend to become corrupted. Centralized power structures often lack accountability and transparency, and rely too heavily on trust.

Distributed Power Cultivates Freedom
New technology that empowers individuals provide us the ability to rebuild societies from the bottom up. Strong individuals that can defend and provide for themselves will help build strong local communities on a similar foundation. The result is power being distributed throughout society rather than held by a select few.

In the short term, relying on trust and centralized power is an easy answer to mitigating chaos, but freedom tech tools provide us the ability to build on top of much stronger distributed foundations that provide stability while also cultivating individual freedom.

The solution starts with us. Empower yourself. Empower others. A grassroots freedom tech movement scaling one person at a time.

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 2cde0e02:180a96b9

pen & ink; monochromized

https://stacker.news/items/1008456

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

Lightspark introduces a layer 2 for instant payments, stablecoins and interoperability with Lightning.

Spark is an open-source layer 2 protocol developed by Lightspark, designed to offer instant low-cost payments without the need for intermediaries. It allows the creation of wallets and applications that interact directly with the Bitcoin and Lightning networks. The company’s stated goal is to transform Bitcoin into a true global digital currency, solving the scalability limitations of the base layer.

Lightspark, a company led by David Marcus (former PayPal and former Facebook), officially launched Spark in beta version on April 29, 2025. Developers can already use Spark’s SDKs (Wallet and Issuer) to build self-custodial wallets compatible with Lightning and tokens (such as stablecoins) native to the Bitcoin network.

How it works

Spark adopts a statechain-based approach, allowing the transfer of ownership of a UTXO off-chain between different users without using the main blockchain, thus reducing costs and transaction times. Instead of executing an on-chain transaction that physically moves the asset, users acquire signing rights or control over a key that represents a bitcoin UTXO. Transfers occur through a chain of signatures and a mechanism that allows subsequent transactions to overwrite previous ones, ensuring that neither the user nor the service provider (Spark Service Provider, SSP) can lose funds during the operation.

Spark is designed to be fully interoperable with LN, supporting not only bitcoin transactions, but also stablecoins and other tokenized assets. SSPs facilitate Lightning payments by accepting funds on Spark and converting them into Lightning transactions or vice versa, eliminating the need for users to manage nodes or worry about channel liquidity. For example, a user can pay an LN invoice with a stablecoin on Spark, with the SSP converting the stablecoin to BTC in the background and sending the funds to the recipient.

Shared signature model (multisig 2-of-2)

Unlike the LN trust model, which is based on peer-to-peer bidirectional channels with smart contract logic, Spark involves a coordinating entity, the “Spark Service Provider” (SSP). This shifts part of the risk from channel liquidity management to trust in operators who sign off-chain transactions. The SSP’s task is to sign “blindly” (blindly) on behalf of the user, which means the SSP does not see the content of the signature and does not even know if it is signing a Bitcoin transaction or something else.

Bitcoin deposited on Spark always remains under the user’s control. When a user sends funds to Spark, they are initially transferred to a statechain. Once funds are on the statechain, payments on the Spark network occur instantly and at near-zero costs.

At the heart of Spark’s security is the use of a shared signature scheme, specifically a multisig 2-of-2 model. This means that two keys are required to authorize a transaction, and the user always holds one. When users deposit funds on Spark, they send them to a multisig address. Here, they maintain control of their funds and can perform a unilateral exit without the need to interact with other parties.

Each payment is enabled by a Spark Service Provider (SSP), which must co-authorize the transaction together with the user for it to be valid and successful.

Although the network is currently managed only by Lightspark and another operator (Flashnet), users do not risk losing funds even if these operators stopped cooperating. In fact, Spark offers the possibility to unilaterally force the return of bitcoin to the mainnet at any time. Users can exit Spark in two ways: through a cooperative exit (cheaper and faster) or a unilateral exit (slower, but possible in case of malfunction or loss of trust). Lightspark has declared its intention to add more operators in the future to increase decentralization.

Fee structure

Regarding fees, transactions within the Spark network are zero fee. The only fees users will have to bear are Bitcoin’s on-chain fees for depositing or withdrawing funds from Spark. Additionally, transferring bitcoin from Spark to LN involves a 0.25% fee plus routing fees. Conversely, a transaction from LN to Spark costs 0.15%.

The native LRC20 token protocol

Introduced in the summer of 2024, LRC20 is a token issuance protocol designed to be compatible with both Bitcoin’s mainnet and LN. Anyone can issue an LRC20 token. The protocol also supports freeze and burn operations, giving the original issuing wallet the power to freeze tokens at any address, preventing transactions until unlocked. LRC20 is primarily designed for issuing stablecoins and regulated assets.

After thoroughly testing it, the Lightspark team decided to run the LRC20 protocol natively on Spark, to enable token issuance on the network.

Ecosystem and partnerships

The birth of Spark has immediately attracted the interest of other Bitcoin projects. Among the various partnerships established, the multisig wallet Theya has integrated Spark to offer its users simpler and faster bitcoin and stablecoin payments.

Last May, Breez announced a new implementation of the Breez SDK based on Spark, which allows developers to integrate Lightning payments directly into their apps through Spark. As part of this collaboration, Breez will also act as a Spark Service Provider, helping to expand the ecosystem. According to the two companies, this partnership will provide developers with new Bitcoin-native tools for use cases such as streaming payments, international remittances and micro-payments for AI.

The post Spark: the layer 2 launched by Lightspark appeared first on Atlas21.

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

The Thai government has eliminated taxes on gains from cryptocurrencies until 2029 to attract investors and promote the digital asset sector.

According to Efinance Thai, Thailand has approved a five-year tax exemption on profits from the sale of Bitcoin and other digital assets. The decision aims to position the country as one of the world’s leading digital financial hubs.

On June 17, Thailand’s Cabinet officially approved the tax measure proposed by the Ministry of Finance. The initiative removes personal income tax on capital gains from the sale of cryptocurrencies conducted through licensed operators under the 2018 Digital Asset Business Act.

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat stated that the tax policy is a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to turn Thailand into a major global center for Bitcoin and blockchain-based financial services.

The capital gains tax exemption will be in effect from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2029. It applies exclusively to transactions carried out via exchanges, brokers, and dealers licensed and regulated by Thailand’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Thai authorities estimate that this tax reform will boost the domestic Bitcoin market, generating positive spillovers for the country’s innovative tech ecosystem. Economic projections indicate a medium-term increase in tax revenues of at least 1 billion baht (around $30 million), driven by sector growth and fresh investment inflows.

According to the government, the initiative is also expected to encourage capital raising through digital tokens and foster the development of blockchain-based financial services.

The post Thailand abolishes taxes on Bitcoin: five-year tax exemption appeared first on Atlas21.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

Nostr is an open communication protocol that can be used to send messages across a distributed set of relays in a censorship resistant and robust way.

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If you missed my nostr introduction post you can find it here. My nostr account can be found here.

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We are nearly at the point that if something interesting is posted on a centralized social platform it will usually be posted by someone to nostr.

We are nearly at the point that if something interesting is posted exclusively to nostr it is cross posted by someone to various centralized social platforms.

We are nearly at the point that you can recommend a cross platform app that users can install and easily onboard without additional guides or resources.

As companies continue to build walls around their centralized platforms nostr posts will be the easiest to cross reference and verify - as companies continue to censor their users nostr is the best censorship resistant alternative - gradually then suddenly nostr will become the standard. 🫡

Current Nostr Stats

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

What is KYC/AML?

• The acronym stands for Know Your Customer / Anti Money Laundering.
• In practice it stands for the surveillance measures companies are often compelled to take against their customers by financial regulators.
• Methods differ but often include: Passport Scans, Driver License Uploads, Social Security Numbers, Home Address, Phone Number, Face Scans.
• Bitcoin companies will also store all withdrawal and deposit addresses which can then be used to track bitcoin transactions on the bitcoin block chain.
• This data is then stored and shared. Regulations often require companies to hold this information for a set number of years but in practice users should assume this data will be held indefinitely. Data is often stored insecurely, which results in frequent hacks and leaks.  
• KYC/AML data collection puts all honest users at risk of theft, extortion, and persecution while being ineffective at stopping crime. Criminals often use counterfeit, bought, or stolen credentials to get around the requirements. Criminals can buy "verified" accounts for as little as $200. Furthermore, billions of people are excluded from financial services as a result of KYC/AML requirements.

During the early days of bitcoin most services did not require this sensitive user data, but as adoption increased so did the surveillance measures. At this point, most large bitcoin companies are collecting and storing massive lists of bitcoiners, our sensitive personal information, and our transaction history.

Lists of Bitcoiners

KYC/AML policies are a direct attack on bitcoiners. Lists of bitcoiners and our transaction history will inevitably be used against us.

Once you are on a list with your bitcoin transaction history that record will always exist. Generally speaking, tracking bitcoin is based on probability analysis of ownership change. Surveillance firms use various heuristics to determine if you are sending bitcoin to yourself or if ownership is actually changing hands.  You can obtain better privacy going forward by using collaborative transactions such as coinjoin to break this probability analysis.

Fortunately, you can buy bitcoin without providing intimate personal information. Tools such as peach, hodlhodl, robosats, azteco and bisq help; mining is also a solid option: anyone can plug a miner into power and internet and earn bitcoin by mining privately.

You can also earn bitcoin by providing goods and/or services that can be purchased with bitcoin. Long term, circular economies will mitigate this threat: most people will not buy bitcoin - they will earn bitcoin - most people will not sell bitcoin - they will spend bitcoin.

There is no such thing as KYC or No KYC bitcoin, there are bitcoiners on lists and those that are not on lists.

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 5d085290:0edc3292

SculpturesHome is a high-end custom sculpture factory in Shenzhen, China, with more than a decade of experience producing exclusive artwork for international clients. Their work encompasses hand-made and 3D-printed artworks such as animal sculptures and human statues, as well as decorative reliefs and furniture. They work in association with leading designers, interior companies, galleries, and individual artists to provide personalized sculptures for residences, hotels, workplaces, and public areas. Equipped with the latest machinery and skilled artisans, they provide quality care at each phase from sketch to last finish. Production times are usually between 4 and 12 weeks depending on size and complexity. SculpturesHome accommodates complete customization: customers may provide drawings, pictures, or idea notes to design uniques in every sense.

Their international shipping network covers North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, with safe and timely delivery. Shipping cost depends on weight, dimensions, destination, and selected mode (air/sea transport). Blending handmade artwork with 3D-printing technology, SculpturesHome provides high quality at affordable prices. Their workshop is located in the Silicon Valley Industrial Park, Longhua District, Shenzhen. Customer support is provided Monday to Friday (9am–8pm) and Saturday (10am–4pm) local time. SculpturesHome.com For questions, contact them through WhatsApp +86?13944048206 or email terry@sculptureshome.com.

@ faade9ee:1c6dfd69

This is a normal piece of text.z

This is a bold piece of text via button press.z

this is also bold, but via double-starsz

this is an italic via button press

this also but via one-star

look, it's an underline!

oh, a piece of code has appeared. Nice. Button press tho. seems like it's purple / missed styling it, will change that.

another code but via text

code block, kinda buggy (really buggy actually x3)

```this is another, but via text which is disabled for now as it's cause issues```

This is a top number thing²²²

a bottom number thing_5ss65435ghrt

• bullets!

• another!

  • a third!

• Number!

• another!

  1. a third!

• [x] check

• [x] box

this is a quote

"quote"

heading 1

heading 2

heading 3 via text

heading 4 via text

heading 5 via text

heading 6 via text

this is a link via text (button has an annoyance bug)


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video below

::youtube{#aApSteSbeGA}

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

People forget Bear Stearns failed March 2008 - months of denial followed before the public realized how bad the situation was under the surface.

Similar happening now but much larger scale. They did not fix fundamental issues after 2008 - everything is more fragile.

The Fed preemptively bailed out every bank with their BTFP program and First Republic Bank still failed. The second largest bank failure in history.

There will be more failures. There will be more bailouts. Depositors will be "protected" by socializing losses across everyone.

Our President and mainstream financial pundits are currently pretending the banking crisis is over while most banks remain insolvent. There are going to be many more bank failures as this ponzi system unravels.

Unlike 2008, we have the ability to opt out of these broken and corrupt institutions by using bitcoin. Bitcoin held in self custody is unique in its lack of counterparty risk - you do not have to trust a bank or other centralized entity to hold it for you. Bitcoin is also incredibly difficult to change by design since it is not controlled by an individual, company, or government - the supply of dollars will inevitably be inflated to bailout these failing banks but bitcoin supply will remain unchanged. I do not need to convince you that bitcoin provides value - these next few years will convince millions.

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If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 9ca447d2:fbf5a36d

When Richard Scotford moved to Costa Rica in 2018, he had no idea he would become a key figure in a thriving Bitcoin economy.

A longtime Bitcoin holder who initially saw it through the lens of speculation, Scotford’s journey led him to embrace Bitcoin’s deeper purpose and spearhead Bitcoin Jungle — a grassroots movement bringing real-world Bitcoin adoption to Costa Rica.

Bitcoin circular economies create holistic value for Bitcoiners

Bitcoin Jungle is inspired by Bitcoin Beach in El Salvador but uniquely adapted to Costa Rica’s economic landscape. Unlike El Salvador, where Bitcoin was positioned as a tool for financial inclusion, Costa Rica already has a fairly stable banking system.

The real issue? The friction of moving money. Expats, business owners, and tourists struggle with high fees, banking red tape, and slow transactions. Bitcoin helped solve a lot of these problems.

The Birth of Bitcoin Jungle

Scotford and his team launched Bitcoin Jungle in late 2021 with a simple goal: get bitcoin into people’s hands and make it usable. However, there was one challenge — he had no technical background.

Determined to create a circular bitcoin economy, Scotford networked aggressively. He attended the first Adopting Bitcoin conference in El Salvador, approaching strangers with his vision:

“I was just walking around trying to find people who could help me make this economy, going up to random people saying ‘Hey, what can you do? We’re trying to make a circular economy in Costa Rica, can you help us?’ They all thought I was crazy.”

The breakthrough came when he turned to Bitcoin Twitter. Nicolas Burtey from Galoy encouraged him to create a wallet, and developer Lee Salminen forked the Bitcoin Beach wallet for their project. 

“Within two weeks of Adopting Bitcoin, Lee forked the Galoy Bitcoin Beach wallet, which took Galoy by surprise. Even though they made their wallet to be forked if necessary, I don’t think they were expecting people to do it so fast and, I’d like to say, so well. They were like, ‘Okay, cool, who are these guys doing this?’”

Finally Bitcoin Jungle had its own working wallet, surprising even the Galoy team with the speed of execution.

Grassroots Adoption: One Vendor at a Time

How do you build a bitcoin economy from scratch? Scotford’s answer was simple: start at the farmers’ markets.

“We were like, okay, we’re going to get all the bespoke niche market sellers who are in this area. We have all these beautiful farmers markets, and we decided to approach these people first,” Scotford explained.

His team took a strategic approach, targeting market gatekeepers first.

“If you want to talk to every individual person, it’s really difficult. But if you can talk to the person who is the owner of the market, and then they can introduce you to their market stores, you’re already halfway there.”

Going stall by stall, they pitched Bitcoin’s advantages — no bank fees and better payment options. But adoption didn’t happen overnight, so Bitcoin Jungle initially offered a safety net — vendors could cash out at the end of the day.

“We would say to the vendors, ‘Look, accept bitcoin, and at the end of the day, if you don’t want to keep the bitcoin, we’ll buy it off you,’” Scotford recalled.

“When we first started, maybe 30–40% of the vendors were cashing up every day or at the weekends. Lee would be walking around with big fistfuls of money, cashing out vendors.”

But over time, something shifted — they started keeping their bitcoin.

“Eventually, the vendors started to learn themselves that, ‘Oh, actually it’s better to keep it.’ They would then pay for their tables in the markets using bitcoin. They thought, ‘Well, I don’t want to keep this bitcoin, I don’t really know what to do with it, but I can pay for my table.’ So there, the circular economy starts to happen.”

Today, Bitcoin Jungle runs with minimal intervention, and Scotford takes pride in their reliability.

“When you come here to Costa Rica, what we really pride ourselves on is that if someone says they accept bitcoin, 99% of the time, they will. And if they’re part of Bitcoin Jungle, they will 100% accept bitcoin and you will have a fluid experience with it.”

By mid-summer 2024 over 380 locations in Costa Rica accepted bitcoin

The Bitcoin Jungle Wallet and Real Usage

Bitcoin Jungle is an open-source community project built on the Bitcoin Lightning Network.

Acting as a community bank, the project processes a large number of transactions daily. To encourage proper security practices, Scotford’s team alerts their peers, reminding users to move their bitcoin to cold storage.

“If you’ve got too much bitcoin on your wallet, we send you a message telling you to move it to cold storage,” he explained. For larger businesses, they even offer hands-on assistance to secure funds properly.

Unlike the HODL-only philosophy that many Bitcoiners advocate, Bitcoin Jungle encourages spending.

“Michael Saylor says don’t spend your bitcoin. We say the opposite,” Scotford laughed. “We’re the antithesis of that. You need to spend it.”

Bitcoin Jungle’s Unique Approach to Costa Rica

Bitcoin Jungle isn’t just another Bitcoin adoption effort; it’s tailored to Costa Rica’s economy. The wallet operates in Costa Rican colónes, making transactions feel familiar to residents while ensuring tourists and expats can still interact easily.

The team has also introduced low-fee bitcoin ATMs, point-of-sale integrations, and partnerships that allow users to pay in bitcoin while the recipient receives local currency.

A major breakthrough came when Francis Pouliot from Bull Bitcoin joined forces with Bitcoin Jungle, bringing his expertise in banking infrastructure to the project.

This collaboration enabled seamless bitcoin payments that integrate directly with Costa Rica’s financial system, allowing users to pay anyone, even businesses that don’t directly accept bitcoin, while the recipient receives funds in colónes or dollars.

“I can go to a hardware store, order steel for my new basketball court, pay in bitcoin, and the store gets dollars,” Scotford said. “For a non-tech guy like me, it’s magical.”

Why Aren’t There More Bitcoin Jungles?

Scotford sees an opportunity for more localized bitcoin economies.

“There should be a Bitcoin Harbor, a Bitcoin Mountain, a Bitcoin Driveway,” he joked. “But instead of waiting for permission or corporate funding, people need to take action themselves.”

He emphasizes that building a circular bitcoin economy doesn’t require deep pockets. “I probably gave away $600 worth of bitcoin when we started — just $3 here, $4 there — to get people using it.”

The Future of Bitcoin Jungle

Bitcoin Jungle continues to grow, recently hosting events like the Bitcoin Freedom Festival and integrating bitcoin into community projects, including a school where tuition can be paid in bitcoin.

“The institutions have come in, but the grassroots projects haven’t caught up,” Scotford observed. “It’s time for people to stop sitting on their hands and start building.”

Bitcoin is permissionless, no one has to wait for approval to start using it. Bitcoin Jungle proves that with vision and persistence, anyone can build a thriving Bitcoin economy, one market stall at a time.

Get the latest from Bitcoin Jungle: follow them on X

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

Years ago, I flew a microlight aircraft for the first time and felt what it meant to leave the ground. Recently, I bought a gigabyte of storage for 5 cents via Lightning, and something similar happened. This is about that moment—when you stop believing something works and start knowing it does.

Every now and then (if you’re lucky) you have one of those “eureka” moments where the full implications of something hit you for the first time. My biggest experience of that was years ago when I got a microlight aircraft. They’d just come out, so there were no regulations, and anyone could buy one and just fly.

People who should never be flying were going all over the place, and—having no navigation training—they were following motorways instead. Some were even landing at the service stops to get more fuel. How could I resist?

The price included training at an old airfield that was now not busy at all. After a lot of taxiing along the runways, it came time to try a takeoff. Nothing can prepare you for that. It’s not like a Cessna or any of those “proper” aircraft; it’s just an aluminum frame, and you hang off the center of the main pole, the center of gravity. There was a twin motor behind me, totaling 250 cc. I could feel where the wind was on the wings, which side, and even how far along. It was an insight into what birds must feel. I’d trade wings for a big brain any day!

I hit the gas on full, and we accelerated. I had been told that this thing could fly. and had seen my teacher fly in it many times. I thought I understood that it could fly, but as I left the ground and the drag on the wheels was suddenly gone, the whole thing lurched up into the air fast, at a really steep angle, and before I could think, I was already higher than a house. That was when I understood that this thing could fly. Belief is not knowledge, and knowledge only comes from experience.

So it is with many things. So it is with Bitcoin and the Lightning Network. I believed that Lightning could “transform the economic landscape.” I had read about how bitcoin can “revolutionize the financial system.” What hadn’t happened yet was that I had not actually experienced it. That take-off moment came when someone sent me a file link on a CDN. I downloaded the PDF (300 MB or so) and then cut the end off the URL to have a look at the service provider.

To my surprise, they were offering storage space on the CDN at 5c per gigabyte per month. with “unlimited” data transfer. So I decided to try it out. Within a few seconds I had ordered, paid for, and received my credit, and the service was available. 5 cents! That was when I realized how simple everything else in the world can be with Bitcoin and the Lightning Network.

Who cares about how many stupid dollars you can get with bitcoin? Look at what you can do with it! In the new world that may be opening up for us, we can rid ourselves of the parasites who have held us back for so long. “When moon?” takes on a whole different meaning. Nothing is beyond our reach.

There was no bitcoin back in the Spanish Civil War when Durruti was doing his thing, but something of the same awakening must have stirred in him to inspire these words: “We should not be in the least afraid of ruins. They may blast and lay bare this world before they go, but we carry a new world here in our hearts, and this world is growing as we speak.”

https://satellite.earth is the site. It’s not just a storage provider; it’s a Nostr node you can use like any other node, and it has communities set up, among other things. It’s well worth a look. No, I’m not getting paid; they don’t even know me. And I’m not sure, but it looks like because I haven’t used the whole 1 GB yet, they are using my 5c to extend the time I have. In other words, it’s 5c per gigabyte-month, not per gigabyte per month.

@ 9ca447d2:fbf5a36d

Coinbase is launching its first-ever credit card — the Coinbase One Card — with up to 4% back in bitcoin on everyday purchases.

The announcement was made at the 2025 State of Crypto Summit in New York and marks a big step towards making bitcoin more accessible and rewarding for everyday use.

The card is being released in partnership with American Express and will roll out in the U.S. this fall. It’s only available to Coinbase One members, the company’s growing subscription service.

“Whether you’re buying groceries or booking a trip, the Coinbase One Card lets you earn rewards in Bitcoin — making everyday spending more rewarding than ever,” Coinbase said in a blog post.

The Coinbase One Card lets you earn 2-4% back in bitcoin, depending on how much you have in assets on the Coinbase platform. All cardholders will start at 2%, but those with more assets can unlock higher cashback rates.

The card also has a metal design with text from Bitcoin’s original Genesis Block engraved on it, representing its connection to the birth of the scarce digital asset.

Coinbase One Card

The bitcoin rewards are a first for Coinbase, which previously only released a prepaid debit card with Visa in 2020. The new card is a shift from traditional digital asset trading tools to everyday financial products that integrate with the blockchain.

The card is on the American Express Network, which provides access to travel protections, exclusive offers, personalized experiences and the secure infrastructure of one of the most trusted brands in payments.

Will Stredwick, SVP of Global Network Services at American Express said:

“We see real potential in the combination of Coinbase and crypto with the powerful backing of American Express, and what the card offers is an excellent mix of what customers are looking for right now.”

Luke Gebb, Executive Vice President of Amex Digital Labs added that Amex is committed to “practical, compliant applications” of the blockchain and Bitcoin technology.

The Coinbase One Card is issued by First Electronic Bank and offered through a partnership with fintech company Cardless. A waitlist is open now on Coinbase’s website and more info will be shared as the fall launch approaches.

To use the card, you need to be enrolled in Coinbase One, a subscription program launched in 2023. There are now two options:

• Standard Coinbase One: $29.99/month, with zero trading fees, priority customer support and enhanced staking rewards.
• Coinbase One Basic: $4.99/month or $49.99/year, to make it more affordable. Basic members also get the card and the same bitcoin rewards.

Both tiers get up to 4% bitcoin back, zero-fee trading on eligible assets (up to $500/month for Basic), and 4.5% APY on the first $10,000 in USDC holdings.

“Our customers are graduating from just creating [accounts] to now using Coinbase as a primary financial account,” said Max Branzburg, Coinbase’s VP of Product.

The Coinbase One Card launch comes as more digital asset platforms are entering the credit and debit card space. Rivals like Gemini have launched cards with similar cashback features and payments giants like Mastercard are exploring bitcoin integrations.

@ a4043831:3b64ac02

Financial planning involves knowing your current financial situation, defining your short- and long-term financial goals, and coming up with informed ways to achieve those goals. An ideal financial plan should consider inflation. It prepares you for potential risks and unforeseen events such as an accident or sudden job loss.

Financial planning ultimately ensures financial security and independence.

Elements of a Financial Plan

The following are the steps that must be taken when developing a financial plan:

• Define your goals This should be the first step. Start by detailing your present financial situation, determine what you want to accomplish, and establish realistic timelines for achieving those goals.

• Decide who will do it You need to decide whether you will create your financial plan yourself or seek professional help. The former is indeed possible, but a professional financial planner can help you ensure that your plan checks all the boxes.

• Budget and manage expenses If you haven't already, create a sound budget so that you can set aside money for investing. Decide on what amounts you can set aside, as well as the expenses to reduce. A good rule to follow is that what you can do without, do without.

• Assess your risk appetite This means knowing the risk amount that you can comfortably take and afford by considering your financial standing, investment objectives, and tolerance of probable losses. A well-understood risk appetite enables investment decisions in the right direction.

• Allocate your assets This will depend on your goals and risk appetite. A good financial planner comes in handy here. They can help you decide the right balance between high- and low-risk investments.

• Decide on an investment plan Decide where and how much you can or want to invest. Choose a plan that fits your objectives and risk tolerance by researching several options or getting investment advice from professionals.

• Monitor and adjust your plan Your goals and financial situation may change as you grow older. Keep revisiting your plan and adjusting things that are not performing, as necessary.

Benefits of Financial Planning

Proactive financial planning will benefit you in the following ways:

• Help you set and reach your financial goals

Setting a clear goal to work towards will make you more likely to succeed. A financial plan will help you do that.

• Improve your financial outcome

Planning helps you think beyond the present. Even small amounts of money can grow significantly over time by saving and investing smartly, thanks to compounding.

• Help you diversify risks better

Financial planning allows you to spread your investments across different options, thus reducing the risk of losing everything if one investment does not do well.

• Have a better lifestyle

A financial plan will help you build better habits like spending wisely and saving more. This will in turn help you avoid debt and ensure financial stability in the long run.

• Attain peace of mind

Money is a major source of stress for most people. This was confirmed by a 2022 study, which also found that people who work with a financial planner are less stressed than those who do not. This should be enough reason to get your finances in order.

Conclusion

You have certainly heard Benjamin Franklin’s quote, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” This applies to your finances too. To achieve your goals, create your financial plan as soon as possible. No matter your age, the next best time is now.

If unsure where to start, Passive Capital Management’s financial planners and advisors can assist clients. They use gathered data to map the trajectory needed to achieve their goals. They will evaluate whether clients are on the right path now, before determining the adjustments needed to meet their long-term priorities. Contact them today to learn more.

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

In a quiet corner of the world, bitcoin mining operations in Africa are turning electricity into digital currency and in the process, redefining how value is created.

At its core, bitcoin mining involves validating transaction information before adding new blocks to the Bitcoin blockchain by competing to solve a cryptographic puzzle that meets a specific criterion.

Globally, mining plays a key role in keeping the blockchain decentralized and secure. The system depends on miners to verify and record transactions, mainly to prevent a problem called double spending, the digital version of using the same money twice.

To understand this better, imagine Charles sends $5 to Amanda. With physical cash, Amanda can trust the note is real and hasn’t been used elsewhere. But with digital currency, copying data is easy, so how can she be sure that the same $5 wasn’t sent to someone else too? That’s the exact problem Bitcoin mining helps solve.

In recent years, Africa has started to draw attention in this space, positioning itself as a key hub in global bitcoin mining. While there may be less than 2 million bitcoin left to be mined from the total 21 million supply, the rise of mining operations in Africa has sparked excitement, creating new jobs and drawing in foreign capital.

Although some countries still grapple with power shortages and the energy demands of mining, many citizens view bitcoin as a more stable store of value and a safeguard against the volatility of their local currencies.

At the same time, Africa’s wealth of hydro, solar, wind, and geothermal resources makes the continent one of the most promising regions for cost-effective and sustainable mining.

What Makes a Large-Scale Bitcoin Mining Operation in Africa?

It all starts with difficulty. Bitcoin mining isn’t just about solving a puzzle, it’s about solving one that keeps getting harder. Mining difficulty refers to how much computational work is needed to generate a number lower than the target hash.

This difficulty automatically adjusts every 2,016 blocks (about every two weeks), depending on how quickly miners solved the previous batch. If mining is fast and efficient, the network increases the difficulty; if miners drop off and block times slow, it reduces it, all to maintain a consistent block production time of roughly 10 minutes.

The significance of mining difficulty lies in the increased demands it places on mining operations. As difficulty rises, miners require more powerful hardware, cost-effective energy sources, advanced infrastructure, and substantial financial investment. These requirements distinguish large-scale mining operations from smaller, casual miners.

In short, it’s the difficulty of mining that births the need for large facilities, massive energy inputs, industrial-grade hardware, and significant financial investment, the very traits that define a “large” bitcoin mining operation.

This leads us to the 4 key factors that define large Bitcoin mining operations in Africa, each one a direct response to the growing demands of the network:

1. Facility size and infrastructure:

The physical size of a mining facility is a direct reflection of its capacity to house mining equipment and support systems. Larger operations typically have thousands of mining rigs installed, supported by extensive infrastructure such as advanced cooling systems and stable power supplies.

These are critical to ensure that the equipment runs continuously and efficiently, given the intense heat and electricity demands of mining.

While it is possible to mine Bitcoin using desktop computers or gaming rigs by joining mining pools, these setups are limited in profitability. Mining pools distribute rewards based on the computational power contributed, meaning small or less efficient machines earn only modest returns.

To compete effectively, mining operations invest in specialized hardware known as Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) miners. These machines are far more powerful and energy-efficient than regular computers but require significant capital investment, with prices ranging from $4,000 to $12,000 per rig depending on their performance.

Large-scale operations typically deploy hundreds or thousands of these ASIC miners, which necessitates the large facilities and sophisticated infrastructure mentioned earlier. In this way, the size of the facility and the sophistication of the mining equipment are tightly linked, together defining the overall scale and capability of a bitcoin mining operation.

2. Hashrate contribution:

Hashrate refers to the computational power used to mine and process transactions on the Bitcoin network. A higher hashrate indicates a more significant contribution to the network’s security and transaction processing.

Large mining operations often possess substantial hashrate, measured in exa hashes per second (EH/s). For instance, as of July 2024, the Bitcoin network’s hashrate was approximately 733.41 EH/s.

3. Energy consumption and power source:

Bitcoin mining is energy-intensive. The total energy consumption of the Bitcoin network has been estimated at 175.87 terawatt-hours annually, comparable to the power consumption of Poland. Large mining operations often seek locations with access to cheap and reliable energy sources, such as hydroelectric, solar, or wind power, to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

4. Financial banking and investor interest:

Significant financial investment is required to establish and maintain large-scale mining operations. This includes the cost of mining hardware, facility construction, energy procurement, and operational expenses. Companies with substantial financial backing can invest in cutting-edge technology and infrastructure, enhancing their mining capabilities. 

Overview of Bitcoin Mining in Africa

Africa is beginning to carve out its share of the global Bitcoin mining market, which was valued at $2.45 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $8.24 billion by 2034. 

As Bitcoin’s value continues to rise, countries across the continent are positioning themselves to benefit, many by tapping into abundant renewable energy sources and taking advantage of regulatory ambiguity or excess energy production. 

Ethiopia currently leads the continent in Bitcoin mining activity, with around 2.5% of the global hashrate reportedly coming from operations powered entirely by renewable energy. 

This energy mismatch has attracted major miners from China and other regions, who see an opportunity to monetize surplus electricity. Ethiopia’s success showcases how renewable energy and mining can coexist sustainably while contributing meaningfully to state revenue. 

Kenya follows closely behind. As the top geothermal energy producer in Africa, with an installed capacity of 863 MW, the country is using its energy advantage to support sustainable mining. 

Nigeria is emerging as a serious contender. While not yet dominant, its large population, increasing tech engagement, and growing interest in using flared gas for mining signal potential for expansion. Nigeria’s complex but evolving regulatory landscape also leaves room for further mining developments as the government explores clearer crypto frameworks.

Malawi represents a more localized model of Bitcoin mining. By converting rainfall-powered microgrids into revenue-generating infrastructure, Malawi shows how small-scale mining can play a powerful role in community development and rural electrification.

In Libya, Bitcoin mining is technically illegal, but that hasn’t stopped it. Despite the ban, underground mining continues to thrive thanks to heavily subsidized electricity. In 2021, Libyan miners accounted for an estimated 0.6% of the global Bitcoin production, the highest in both the Arab world and Africa at the time. Today, mining reportedly consumes around 2% of the country’s electricity, even as it operates in the shadows.

Angola rounds out the list with limited public data but notable potential. The country struggles with energy inefficiencies, losing nearly 40% of its hydroelectric power during transmission. Some reports suggest Bitcoin miners are beginning to capitalize on this otherwise stranded energy, though large-scale operations are yet to surface.

What unites these countries is a shared set of conditions: untapped or mismanaged energy resources, an openness or gray area in regulation, and the growing understanding that Bitcoin mining can serve as a financial incentive to build and stabilize decentralized energy systems. 

Whether through massive hydroelectric projects or rural microgrids, Bitcoin mining is emerging as both an energy monetization strategy and a bridge to infrastructure development across Africa.

Profiles of the Largest Bitcoin Mining Operations in Africa

1. BitCluster (Ethiopia)

As of 2024, Bitcoin mining in Africa is largely concentrated in

@ 9ca447d2:fbf5a36d

Japanese investment firm Metaplanet has announced a massive $5.4 billion plan to increase its bitcoin holdings to 210,000 BTC by the end of 2027 — that’s about 1% of the total bitcoin supply.

Metaplanet on X

The Tokyo-listed company is accelerating its already aggressive bitcoin plan, with CEO Simon Gerovich calling the initiative “Asia’s largest-ever equity raise to buy Bitcoin — again!”

The company’s new capital raise, called the “555 Million Plan”, involves issuing 555 million shares through moving strike warrants. That’s basically a type of option where people can buy shares later, and the price they pay depends on the stock’s price at that time.

So with moving strike warrants, the price at which people can buy the stock goes up or down depending on how the company’s stock is doing. It gives investors more flexibility — and it can make the warrants more attractive — because they don’t get stuck with a bad deal if the stock price drops.

This way the company can raise capital gradually over the next 2 years without impacting the stock market and existing shareholders.

The funds raised will be used to buy bitcoin, with some to redeem bonds and other income-generating strategies like selling put options.

This is a big step up from Metaplanet’s previous targets. Initially aiming to reach 10,000 BTC by the end of 2025, the company now plans to reach:

• 30,000 BTC by end of 2025
• 100,000 BTC by end of 2026
• 210,000 BTC by end of 2027

The Japanese investment firm hopes to be in the “Bitcoin 1% club” which means holding at least 1% of the total 21 million bitcoin supply.

Metaplanet bitcoin targets

Metaplanet is already making good progress. As of June 2025, the company holds 8,888 BTC, acquired at a cost of about ¥122.2 billion (around $849 million) and has already reached 89% of its original 10,000 BTC target for 2025.

This comes after the success of the company’s previous “210 Million Plan” which raised ¥93.3 billion ($650 million) in 60 trading days by issuing 210 million shares.

During that time, the company’s bitcoin holdings grew from 1,762 BTC to 7,800 BTC and the BTC Yield (a key performance metric showing growth in bitcoin per share) increased by 189%.

Year to date the BTC Yield is 225.4%.

Metaplanet’s BTC Yield graph

The stock has reflected this momentum, up 275% since early 2025 and 1,619% over the past year.

Metaplanet’s stock price chart — TradingView

Metaplanet is now one of the most actively traded stocks in Japan and has become a top-ten corporate bitcoin holder globally, recently surpassing Block Inc., the company founded by Jack Dorsey.

Metaplanet sees this as part of a bigger shift in capital markets.

By being a “bitcoin treasury vehicle” listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, it aims to offer investors exposure to bitcoin through regulated equity markets. This is especially useful in Japan where retail investors are often restricted from accessing bitcoin directly.

“Bitcoin is repricing the global cost of capital,” the company said in a statement. “Through our 555 Million Plan, Metaplanet is doubling down on a high-conviction, equity-driven capital markets strategy to accelerate our Bitcoin accumulation trajectory.”

@ dfa02707:41ca50e3

Contribute to keep No Bullshit Bitcoin news going.

• The latest firmware updates for COLDCARD devices introduce two major features: COLDCARD Co-sign (CCC) and Key Teleport between two COLDCARD Q devices using QR codes and/or NFC with a website.

What's new

• COLDCARD Co-Sign: When CCC is enabled, a second seed called the Spending Policy Key (Key C) is added to the device. This seed works with the device's Main Seed and one or more additional XPUBs (Backup Keys) to form 2-of-N multisig wallets.
  • The spending policy functions like a hardware security module (HSM), enforcing rules such as magnitude and velocity limits, address whitelisting, and 2FA authentication to protect funds while maintaining flexibility and control, and is enforced each time the Spending Policy Key is used for signing.
  • When spending conditions are met, the COLDCARD signs the partially signed bitcoin transaction (PSBT) with the Main Seed and Spending Policy Key for fund access. Once configured, the Spending Policy Key is required to view or change the policy, and violations are denied without explanation.

"You can override the spending policy at any time by signing with either a Backup Key and the Main Seed or two Backup Keys, depending on the number of keys (N) in the multisig."

• A step-by-step guide for setting up CCC is available here.

• Key Teleport for Q devices allows users to securely transfer sensitive data such as seed phrases (words, xprv), secure notes and passwords, and PSBTs for multisig. It uses QR codes or NFC, along with a helper website, to ensure reliable transmission, keeping your sensitive data protected throughout the process.

  • For more technical details, see the protocol spec.

"After you sign a multisig PSBT, you have option to “Key Teleport” the PSBT file to any one of the other signers in the wallet. We already have a shared pubkey with them, so the process is simple and does not require any action on their part in advance. Plus, starting in this firmware release, COLDCARD can finalize multisig transactions, so the last signer can publish the signed transaction via PushTX (NFC tap) to get it on the blockchain directly."

• Multisig transactions are finalized when sufficiently signed. It streamlines the use of PushTX with multisig wallets.
• Signing artifacts re-export to various media. Users are now provided with the capability to export signing products, like transactions or PSBTs, to alternative media rather than the original source. For example, if a PSBT is received through a QR code, it can be signed and saved onto an SD card if needed.
• Multisig export files are signed now. Public keys are encoded as P2PKH address for all multisg signature exports. Learn more about it here.
• NFC export usability upgrade: NFC keeps exporting until CANCEL/X is pressed.
• Added Bitcoin Safe option to Export Wallet.
• 10% performance improvement in USB upload speed for large files.
• Q: Always choose the biggest possible display size for QR.

Fixes

• Do not allow change Main PIN to same value already used as Trick PIN, even if Trick PIN is hidden.
• Fix stuck progress bar under Receiving... after a USB communications failure.
• Showing derivation path in Address Explorer for root key (m) showed double slash (//).
• Can restore developer backup with custom password other than 12 words format.
• Virtual Disk auto mode ignores already signed PSBTs (with “-signed” in file name).
• Virtual Disk auto mode stuck on “Reading…” screen sometimes.
• Finalization of foreign inputs from partial signatures. Thanks Christian Uebber!
• Temporary seed from COLDCARD backup failed to load stored multisig wallets.
• Destroy Seed also removes all Trick PINs from SE2.
• Lock Down Seed requires pressing confirm key (4) to execute.
• Q only: Only BBQr is allowed to export Coldcard, Core, and pretty descriptor.

Blog Post / Archive
GitHub Repo
CCC Guide
Key Teleport site

@ de54d599:77efc747

Some gifts delight. Others leave a lasting impression. Moët & Chandon’s Personalised Impérial Brut does both—offering the glamour of champagne and the intimacy of a custom message in one iconic bottle.

Your Message, Moët’s Signature

The Personalised Impérial gives you the chance to print a name or phrase directly on the label of one of the world’s most celebrated champagnes. Whether it’s “Happy 30th, Alex,” “Cheers to Us,” or simply “With Love,” the moment becomes yours—captured in gold foil and timeless design.

The Ultimate Gift for Every Occasion

From birthdays to engagements, job promotions to holiday gifting, this bespoke bottle is more than a gesture—it’s a moment, wrapped in elegance. For corporate clients, it doubles as a premium branded gift with lasting impact.

Inside: The Classic Moët Impérial

The champagne itself is just as memorable. Expect vibrant fruit (apple, pear, citrus), soft toasty notes, and a refined mousse. Moët Impérial is crafted to please a range of palates—balanced, crisp, and full of celebration in every glass.

Effortlessly Personalised, Beautifully Delivered

Ordering a personalised bottle online is quick and intuitive. Preview your label in real time, select your format, and have it delivered directly to your door—gift-ready and guaranteed to impress.

Why Personalised Moët Matters

Personalisation elevates a bottle of champagne into something deeper—a tribute, a memory, a toast to the people who matter most. With Moët & Chandon Personalised Impérial, every sip becomes a story worth celebrating.

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

In today’s digital era, access to financial services remains a privilege for many. Bitcoinization – the mass adoption of Bitcoin as a payment medium and store of value – represents a unique opportunity to democratize access to financial services (Read this article Can the Lightning Network Lead to “Hyperbitcoinization”? to know more about Bitcoinization). Telecommunications carriers occupy a strategic position in this transformation, especially in regions where traditional internet access is limited. However, this aspect remains largely unexplored. This article seeks to examine how these companies can catalyze this financial revolution by analyzing the Machankura case and the technical possibilities within current communication infrastructures.

The Success Sotry of Machankura

The Machankura project (8333.mobi) emerged to address a common challenge in various African regions: financial exclusion due to limited internet access. Created by South African developer Kgothatso Ngako, the service utilizes the USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) protocol, supported by virtually all mobile phones, to facilitate Bitcoin transactions via 2G and 3G cellular networks.

Machankura – derived from South African slang for “money” – functions as a custodial Bitcoin wallet. Through the USSD protocol, users can access the service by dialing short codes (*123*456789#, for example) or sending SMS messages to specific numbers. When the server receives the code or message, an interactive session between the parties (server-user) begins. This enables users to create Bitcoin wallets associated with their phone numbers, protected by multi-digit PINs.

Once registered, users receive a Lightning address (example: 1234567890@8333.mobi) that can be used to receive Bitcoin from anyone worldwide. Users can also customize this address to a preferred username, further enhancing privacy.

Currently, Machankura is available in nine African countries, including Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, and Malawi. The creator’s objective is to expand the service to all countries across the African continent in the coming years.

Why Lightning network? Please read this article Lightning Network vs. Traditional Bitcoin Transactions.

The Technical Foundations of Machankura’s Success – USSD

As mentioned, USSD is a protocol embedded in mobile networks and available on virtually all cellular devices. This choice proved crucial for the Machankura project, given that in Africa, more than half of phones sold are not smartphones. Additionally, this protocol offers critical technical advantages:

• Operates without requiring internet access, functioning in areas with poor connectivity.
• Universal compatibility with any mobile phone, including the most basic models.
• Provides real-time interactivity between users and the system.
• Features an intuitive interface already utilized for banking services, customer support, and self-service applications

These advantages have enabled Bitcoin to become accessible to a significant portion of the region’s population, with over 15,000 users, according to the Machankura project creator.

USSD and Connectivity Challenges

The primary technical limitation of USSD manifests in high-connectivity environments (4G, 5G, or higher). As established by the 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project, organization for standardization of mobile networks), the protocol must be recognized by newer generations of cellular networks. However, this recognition requires a procedure known as inter-technology fallback. For instance, if a user is connected to a 5G network and streaming music, when accessing a USSD service, their connection will downgrade to a 3G (or 2G) network, inevitably interrupting media streaming execution.

IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS): The Evolution in Telecommunications Services

The solution to connectivity issues with USSD resides within the IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem), a subsystem within the standardized architecture of newer cellular networks (from fourth generation onwards). Its objective is to unify access and provision of multimedia services across both mobile and fixed networks. These services include:

• Voice services – such as Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi)
• Video services – such as Video over LTE  (ViLTE) and Video over WiFi (ViWiFi)
• Videoconferencing
• Instant messaging
• Streaming media
• Emergency services
• Interoperability between legacy networks

The New Era: USSI (USSD over IP)

USSI (USSD over IP) represents the solution for service continuity across 4G, 5G, and future networks when utilizing USSD services. This new protocol enhances service quality, increases simultaneous session capacity, provides additional features for recent devices, improves session security, and enables operation without requiring fallback procedures.

Strategic Opportunities for Carriers

Institutional Bitcoin adoption is already established, with integration into portfolios of mining companies, exchanges, automobile manufacturers (Tesla), investment funds (BlackRock), financial institutions (Galaxy Digital Holdings), technology companies (including MicroStrategy, MercadoLibre, and Brazilian Meliúz), and even nations such as El Salvador, the United States, and China.

With robust, secure, and extensive infrastructure, telecommunications carriers can implement complex and advanced Bitcoin-based financial services, demystifying its use and stimulating adoption. Strategic partnerships with exchanges and fintechs enhance integrated solutions for entrepreneurs and consumers, such as integration with Lightning Network nodes to enable rapid, low-cost transactions between IoT devices, machine-to-machine (M2M) applications, and point-of-sale (POS) terminals.

The competitive advantages of this approach include

• New Revenue Streams: Companies can collect fees from simple transactions and provide advanced financial services such as loans, insurance, and investments.
• Customer Retention: By offering innovative services, they can reduce customer churn.
• Vanguard Strategy: Strategic positioning in an emerging high-capitalization market

The Future of Bitcoinization in Telecommunications

The success of the Machankura project unequivocally demonstrates the potential of telecommunications as transformative agents in the mass adoption of Bitcoin. As the Bitcoin ecosystem consolidates and expands, it is essential that we recognize this opportunity not merely as a new business vertical but as an important step toward strategic positioning at the forefront of a global economic transformation.

Given the extensive reach of existing infrastructure, these carriers can become the primary catalyst for transforming the lives of the unbanked in an unprecedented manner. As we have seen, Bitcoin is no longer just a trend; it is a reality. The natural consequence of this reality is bitcoinization, and we have the opportunity to be at the forefront of this emerging paradigm.

@ 692a0d34:31dbec4d

Core Implementation Specifications

Core Features

1. Feature A: Implemented with [details].
2. Feature B: Implemented with [details].
3. Feature C: Implemented with [details].

Basic Functionality

• Functionality 1: Verified and working as expected.
• Functionality 2: Key interactions tested and validated.

Initial Tests

• Test Case 1: Passed with [results].
• Test Case 2: Passed with [results].
• Test Case 3: Passed with [results].

Lessons Learned

• Lesson 1: Description of any challenges faced.
• Lesson 2: Improvements for future iterations.

@ c04ae0f0:b0cd5684

In an increasingly digital world where traditional currencies lose purchasing power and bank fees weigh heavily on small businesses, Bitcoin emerges as a serious and beneficial alternative for merchants.

Yet many still hesitate. Is it due to lack of information? Fear of volatility? A system that seems too technical? Here’s a practical and human approach to help them take the first step.

---

🎯 1. Understand Their Needs First

Before talking about Bitcoin, listen to the merchant. What are their day-to-day challenges?

Do they have foreign customers?

Do they experience banking delays or network issues?

Are they frustrated by high card transaction fees?

Have they ever heard of Bitcoin?

👉 The goal isn’t to give a tech lecture, but to show them that Bitcoin can solve real business problems: high fees, banking delays, or lack of access to reliable financial services.

---

💡 2. Highlight the Benefits for Their Business

✅ No Bank Fees

Bitcoin payments don’t go through intermediaries. No hidden costs, no commissions.

✅ Fast and Irreversible Transactions

Once confirmed, the money is theirs. No chargebacks, no bank disputes.

✅ New Customer Base

Bitcoin users actively seek out businesses that accept it. This is a chance to gain free visibility and attract loyal, values-driven clients.

✅ Financial Independence

The merchant has full control over their funds. No account freezes, no gatekeepers.

---

📉 3. Reassure Them About Volatility

Volatility is one of the first concerns skeptics bring up: “What if the price crashes?”

Let them know they don’t have to hold Bitcoin. They can:

Convert instantly to their local currency using apps like Coin Corner, Blink, or Strike.

Keep pricing in local currency (e.g., CFA or euros), but receive payments in SATs (fractions of BTC).

Start small by accepting just a portion of payments in Bitcoin (e.g., 10%).

🛠 Tip: Set them up with an app that shows real-time BTC/local currency conversion for added peace of mind.

---

📲 4. Offer a Simple, Cost-Free Setup

No need for expensive card machines or new hardware. Here’s what they need:

A Bitcoin mobile wallet (Wallet Of Satoshi, Blink, Phoenix, Muun, or BlueWallet).

A way to generate a QR code for payment.

A small sign saying “Bitcoin accepted here” with a QR code.

Optionally, a point-of-sale tool like BTCPay Server for a more professional setup.

🎯 Bonus: Offer to do a live demo. Buy a product using Bitcoin on the spot and show them how it works. Nothing is more convincing than seeing it in action.

---

🌍 5. Emphasize the Social and Community Value

Bitcoin isn’t just about tech—it’s a global movement for financial freedom.

By accepting Bitcoin, a merchant:

Stands out as an innovator and forward-thinker.

Supports a borderless, censorship-resistant economy.

Joins an active community that can recommend their store and promote it for free on social platforms or apps like Bitcoin Map.

---

🗣 6. Share Real-World Examples

Nothing reassures like knowing others are already doing it. Provide relatable examples:

In El Salvador, Bitcoin has been legal tender since 2021, and thousands of merchants use it daily.

Across French-speaking Africa, more and more vendors, artisans, and shopkeepers are adopting it.

Projects like Hope With Bitcoin promote Bitcoin use in orphanages, local markets, and among families in need.

🔎 You can even show them a map of local merchants accepting Bitcoin or offer to help them get listed.

---

🧘 7. Be Patient and Supportive

Change takes time. Avoid pressure or judgment. Instead, be available to:

Answer their questions,

Solve any technical problems,

Walk them through their first transactions.

You can even offer to do a quick training session for their staff on how to accept payments and confirm transactions using QR codes.

---

Every new merchant who accepts Bitcoin opens the door to a freer, more inclusive, and resilient economy.

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Smarter Web Company Raises £29.3M to Grow Bitcoin Holdings

The Smarter Web Company, a UK-based web design and digital services firm, has raised £29.3 million in a new funding round to support its Bitcoin treasury strategy.

JUST IN: Publicly traded The Smarter Web Company raised £29.3M (~$37.1M) to buy more #Bitcoin pic.twitter.com/n5k7XlLvie

— Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) June 16, 2025

The raise was completed through an accelerated bookbuild and a subscription with institutional investors. Shares were priced at £1.80 each, matching the closing bid on Friday, June 13. That price is more than double the company’s last fundraising round. 

“The Smarter Web Company is pleased to announce the successful completion of an Accelerated Bookbuild to institutional investors through Tennyson Securities and Peterhouse Capital Limited. A Subscription with Qualified Investors has also been completed, the company said. 

In total, more than 16.2 million new shares were issued—15.4 million through the bookbuild and about 854,000 through the subscription. 

With a high level of demand the Bookbuild and Subscription has raised approximately £29.3 million, well above the stated minimum of £15 million, through the issue of a total of 16,297,627 new ordinary shares of £0.001 each at £1.80 per share. The Offer Price was at the closing bid price on Friday 13 June 2025,” the company said. 

The raise comes just three days after the company revealed it had purchased 74.27 more Bitcoin for £5.98 million, bringing its total Bitcoin holdings to 242.34 BTC. Its average cost basis now sits at £78,793 per Bitcoin. 

“The Company believes that Bitcoin forms a core part of the future of the global financial system,” it said in both filings.  

Smarter Web started building its Bitcoin treasury strategy in 2023. 

“Since 2023 The Smarter Web Company has adopted a policy of accepting payment in Bitcoin. The Company is pioneering the adoption of a Bitcoin Treasury Policy into its strategy.” 

The strategy was officially formalized in April, 2025 with the launch of its “10 Year Plan,” seeing Bitcoin play a key role in its financial structure. 

Admission of the new shares is expected around June 19, after which the company’s total shares in issue will rise to over 220 million. 

With this raise, Smarter Web continues to stand out as one of the few UK-listed companies actively building a corporate Bitcoin treasury. 

This post Smarter Web Company Raises £29.3M to Grow Bitcoin Holdings first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Jenna Montgomery.

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Leading OnChain Comms Agency Melrose PR Joins Decentralized Gentleman’s Club with Rare Pepe Inscription on Bitcoin

LOS ANGELES, CA — Melrose PR, the leading onchain communications agency, officially joins Decentralized Gentlemen Club (DGC) with the minting of a rare Pepe inscription on the Bitcoin blockchain. The Decentralized Gentlemen Club (DGC) will be the biggest collection on Bitcoin when complete at 3GB, which is twice as large as the next biggest collection. DGC is a Bitcoin-themed, meme-culture movement that champions decentralization, style, and storytelling. Each member is immortalized as a custom, tuxedo-clad Pepe — a digital gentleman inscribed as a massive, one-of-a-kind Ordinal on the Bitcoin blockchain. Melrose PR’s symbolic mint is a wizard frog (wearing a bowtie) representation of Melrose PR CEO Kelley Weaver.

“At Melrose, we believe in Bitcoin, not just as a technology powering the future of finance, but also as a foundation for community,” said CEO Kelley Weaver. “This is why we’re delighted to join DGC with our Pepe inscription and be part of a community of meme lords, pioneers, and visionaries who value elegance, independence, and on-chain legacy.”

Since 2016, Melrose has represented some of the most innovative projects across Bitcoin infrastructure, crypto-native venture capital, blockchain-AI convergence, and Web3 networks. Their addition to DGC signals the importance of narrative in the next wave of Bitcoin culture.

“Kelley’s wizard inscription is more than just art—it’s an eternal membership,” said Mr. Bitcoin Beast, spokesperson for the Decentralized Gentlemen Club. “She understands that great storytelling isn’t optional. It’s essential. And there’s no better pepe wizard to help tell the tale of this movement.”

Melrose’s inscription in the DGC collection features Kelley Weaver in full arcane regalia, casting spells of signal over noise, clarity over confusion, and truth over trend. The JPEG, weighing in at 388 kilobytes, stands among the largest onchain artworks in Bitcoin history.

As the biggest Ordinals collection ever attempted, DGC is pushing the technical boundaries of what can be inscribed on Bitcoin. 2500 pieces have been minted so far out of the total 10,000. To join the DGC movement, you can mint your own Degent and submit the inscription ID to the DGC Telegram or you can buy a verified DGC Ordinal at Magic Eden: https://magiceden.us/ordinals/marketplace/degentclub

About the Decentralized Gentlemen Club

The Decentralized Gentlemen Club is a 10,000-piece Bitcoin Ordinal collection featuring tuxedoed Pepe-style frogs immortalized as large-inscription art. Each Gentleman represents a unique membership in the emergent cultural layer of Bitcoin—combining elegance, satire, and self-sovereignty. Get your forever Degent at https://degent.club

About Melrose PR

Melrose PR is a leading onchain communications firm focused on delivering the highest quality results for bitcoin and crypto companies. Founded in 2016, Melrose PR is known for its strategic approach based on intimate knowledge of the unique crypto media landscape. The agency’s relationships across mainstream business, finance, tech, and crypto outlets form the foundation for the team’s success in meeting and exceeding their clients’ goals.

---

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored press release. Readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence before acting on any information presented in this article.

This post Leading OnChain Comms Agency Melrose PR Joins Decentralized Gentleman’s Club with Rare Pepe Inscription on Bitcoin first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Melrose.

@ 19a1fc7f:3da39c1e

System Architecture

Core Components

1. Main Application - Handles initialization and coordination of components
2. Data Processing - Responsible for core data transformations
3. Storage Layer - Manages persistence of application data
4. API Layer - Provides interfaces for external communication

Component Interactions

mermaid graph TD A[Main Application] --> B[Data Processing] A --> C[Storage Layer] A --> D[API Layer] B --> C D --> B

Implementation Guidelines

• Use clean architecture principles
• Components should be loosely coupled
• Interfaces should be defined before implementation

@ a10260a2:caa23e3e

If you're like me, private payments where you only have to post the address once excites you. BOLT 12 and Silent Payments are doing that for Lightning and on-chain payments, respectively. I hope to update this table as more wallets support these two protocols over time.

| | Phoenix | Cake Wallet | Strike | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | BOLT 12 (Send) | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | | BOLT12 (Receive) | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | | Silent Payment (Send) | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | | Silent Payment (Receive) | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | | BIP 353 | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |

@ ccef5d7e:8b1d0a3a

LiaScript Kochbuch - Buchstabensuppe

A. Grundlagen

Zubereitung / Arbeitszeit ca. 10 Minuten / Kochzeit ca. 25 Minuten

Gesamtzeit ca. 35 Minuten

Die Zwiebeln klein hacken bzw. schneiden und dann mit dem Olivenöl in einem großen Topf anschwitzen. Anschließend mit dem Wasser ablöschen und während dieses beginnt zu kochen, die geschälten Möhren direkt in den Topf hobeln. Wenn das Wasser kocht, die Brühe einrühren. Die Zucchini in Würfel oder halbierte Scheiben schneiden und dann zusammen mit den Nudeln zur Suppe geben. Circa 10 Minuten köcheln lassen und dann die klein geschnittenen Tomaten und Paprika dazugeben. Bei Bedarf etwas Wasser zugeben. Weitere 10 Minuten köcheln lassen und mit Gewürzen, Salz und Pfeffer abschmecken.

A.1 Zutaten-Listen

100 g Suppennudeln (Buchstabennudeln) 2 TL, gehäuft Gemüsebrühepulver, instant 1 Liter Wasser, evtl. etwas mehr 1 Zucchini 2 Paprikaschote(n), rote, rote 2 Karotte(n) 1 Zwiebel(n) 3 Tomate(n) evtl. Kräuter, frisch, getrocknet oder TK Salz und Pfeffer Paprikapulver, edelsüßes, edelsüß 1 EL Olivenöl

A.2 Tabbellen und Mengen

Nährwerte pro Portion: kcal 160

Stoff Gramm Eiweiß 6.31 g Fett 2.75 g Kohlenhydr. 26.48 g

A.3 Richtig Zitieren

Die Buchstabensuppe ist eine Nudelsuppe mit Buchstabennudeln als Einlage. Oft werden auch kleine Karottenstückchen und verschiedene Gewürze in die Einlage hinzugegeben. Buchstabennudeln sind bis zu einem Zentimeter groß und haben die Form der Buchstaben A–Z und seltener auch der Ziffern 0–9 oder des @-Zeichens. Buchstabennudeln und Buchstabensuppe gibt es seit mindestens 1867 in den Vereinigten Staaten, in Deutschland spätestens seit 1884. Buchstabennudeln werden im Handel in der Regel als Suppeneinlage angeboten, Buchstabensuppen als Tütensuppen oder als Konserven.

Wikipedia: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buchstabensuppe

B. Externe Verweise

Quelle: https://www.chefkoch.de/rezepte/2166951347805623/Buchstabensuppe-mit-frischem-Gemuese.html

B.1 Bilder

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/09/Buchstabensuppe.jpg

https://www.verbformen.de/deklination/substantive/Buchstabensuppe.png

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e9/Alphabet_soup%2C_empty.jpg

B.2 Musik zum Kochen

https://open.spotify.com/track/24fdXLWNsc6LJZrbE8wLaJ

https://soundcloud.com/sitzhupe/barbier-von-sevillia

B.3 Videos zum Kochen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_UW69w0uHE

B.4 Augmented-Reality und Mehr

https://sketchfab.com/3d-models/formschussel-fur-terra-sigillata-schalen-d4a48496f8bc4808b22277fdedba0b2b

https://phet.colorado.edu/sims/html/states-of-matter/latest/states-of-matter_all.html

C. Rezept-Formate

Interaktive-Bücher, -Folien, -Präsentationen

C.1 Animationen & Kommentare

Wir kochen heute eine Buchstabensuppe und benötigen dafür folgende Zutaten:

Schneiden sie zunächst die Zwiebeln klein um sie dann mit dem Olivenöl in einem großen Topf anzuschwitzen.

https://openai-labs-public-images-prod.azureedge.net/user-ANzFa46RCwWLS19qYwta4rsP/generations/generation-jnFGtapIukJDG38mOKHcDx9g/image.webp

Anschließend mit dem Wasser ablöschen und während dieses beginnt zu kochen, die geschälten Möhren direkt in den Topf hobeln.

https://openai-labs-public-images-prod.azureedge.net/user-ANzFa46RCwWLS19qYwta4rsP/generations/generation-ZddGERw9EB3CEuPYGBRs5Sbn/image.webp

Wenn das Wasser kocht, die Brühe einrühren. Die Zucchini in Würfel oder halbierte Scheiben schneiden und dann zusammen mit den Nudeln zur Suppe geben. Circa 10 Minuten köcheln lassen.

https://openai-labs-public-images-prod.azureedge.net/user-ANzFa46RCwWLS19qYwta4rsP/generations/generation-rwRK8X0LqVixqeN1ah3ukoPv/image.webp

Zuletzt die klein geschnittenen Tomaten und Paprika dazugeben. Bei Bedarf etwas Wasser zugeben und weitere 10 Minuten köcheln lassen und mit Gewürzen, Salz und Pfeffer abschmecken. Und dann heiß servieren.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6paiDYJmOo&autoplay=1&mute=1

1: https://labs.openai.com/s/ZddGERw9EB3CEuPYGBRs5Sbn 2: https://labs.openai.com/s/jnFGtapIukJDG38mOKHcDx9g 3: https://labs.openai.com/s/rwRK8X0LqVixqeN1ah3ukoPv

D. Fragen und Quizze

E. Programmiertes Kochen

var Gaeste = 4 const Personen = 4

var Zutat = { Buchstabennudeln: 100, // Gramm Gemuesebruehe: 2, // TL Wasser: 1, // L Zucchini: 1, Paprika: 2, Karrotten: 2, Zwiebeln: 1, Tomaten: 3, Oel: 1 // EL }

for (const Name in Zutat) { Zutat[Name] = (Zutat[Name] / Personen) * Gaeste }

JSON.stringify(Zutat, null, 2)

F. Erweiterungen der Rezeptur

F.1 Eigene

F.2 Fremde

X. Anhang

X.1 KI - Künsteliche Intelligenz

https://phind.com

X.1.1 Prompt

``` markdown - Quiz-Prompt Create quizzes using LiaScript syntax. There are four types of quizzes: Single-Choice, Multiple-Choice, Text-Quiz, and Gap-Text.

For Single-Choice Quiz:

• Each quiz consists of a question and four answer options.
• Only one answer option is correct.
• Use square brackets with round brackets inside to mark the answer options.
• Place an "X" inside the round brackets to indicate the correct answer option.
• Separate each quiz with a blank line.
• Separate the answer options from the questions by a blank line.

For Multiple-Choice Quiz:

• Each quiz consists of a question and multiple answer options.
• One or more answer options can be correct.
• Use double square brackets to mark the answer options.
• Place an "X" inside the double square brackets to indicate the correct answer options.
• Separate each quiz with a blank line.
• Separate the answer options from the questions by a blank line.

For Text-Quiz:

• Each quiz consists of a question and the expected answer in double square brackets.
• Only single-line text answers are supported (no newlines).
• Separate each quiz with a blank line.
• Separate the answer from the questions by a blank line.

For Gap-Text Quiz:

• Each quiz consists of a description or sentence with missing words.
• Use double square brackets to mark the missing words or gaps.
• Learners need to fill in the correct words for each gap.
• Separate each quiz with a blank line.

Single-Choice Quiz Example: Question: What is the capital of France?

• [( )] London
• [( )] Berlin
• [(X)] Paris
• [( )] Rome

Question: Which color is associated with stop signs?

• [( )] Blue
• [(X)] Red
• [( )] Yellow
• [( )] Green

Multiple-Choice Quiz Example: Question: Which of the following are primary colors?

• [[X]] Red
• [[X]] Blue
• [[ ]] Green
• [[X]] Yellow

Question: Which of the following programming languages are object-oriented?

• [[X]] Java
• [[ ]] HTML
• [[X]] Python
• [[ ]] CSS

Text-Quiz Example: Question: What is the chemical symbol for water?

[[H2O]]

Question: Name a famous scientist.

[[Albert Einstein]]

Gap-Text Quiz Example:

Fill in the missing words in the following sentence:

The cat sat on the [[mat]].

Complete the sentence by filling in the gaps:

Roses are [[red]], violets are [[blue]], sugar is [[sweet]], and so are [[you]].

Fill in the blanks to complete the famous quote:

"Life is like a [[box]] of [[chocolates]]. You never know what you're gonna [[get]]."

Add the missing words to complete the phrase:

Actions speak louder than [[words]]. ```

X.1.2 ASCII-Art

X.2 Teilen von Kurse

X.3 Kl - Klassenräume

@ 19a1fc7f:3da39c1e

Calculator Specification

Functional Requirements

• Basic arithmetic operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division.
• Support for decimal numbers.
• Clear/reset functionality.

Non-Functional Requirements

• Responsive UI (web-based).
• Fast calculation response (<100ms).

User Stories

1. As a user, I want to add two numbers so that I can get the sum.
2. As a user, I want to clear the input so that I can start a new calculation.

Out of Scope

• Scientific functions (e.g., trigonometry).
• Memory storage for previous calculations.

@ 7f6db517:a4931eda

The newly proposed RESTRICT ACT - is being advertised as a TikTok Ban, but is much broader than that, carries a $1M Fine and up to 20 years in prison️! It is unconstitutional and would create massive legal restrictions on the open source movement and free speech throughout the internet.

The Bill was proposed by: Senator Warner, Senator Thune, Senator Baldwin, Senator Fischer, Senator Manchin, Senator Moran, Senator Bennet, Senator Sullivan, Senator Gillibrand, Senator Collins, Senator Heinrich, and Senator Romney. It has broad support across Senators of both parties.

Corrupt politicians will not protect us. They are part of the problem. We must build, support, and learn how to use censorship resistant tools in order to defend our natural rights.

The RESTRICT Act, introduced by Senators Warner and Thune, aims to block or disrupt transactions and financial holdings involving foreign adversaries that pose risks to national security. Although the primary targets of this legislation are companies like Tik-Tok, the language of the bill could potentially be used to block or disrupt cryptocurrency transactions and, in extreme cases, block Americans’ access to open source tools or protocols like Bitcoin.

The Act creates a redundant regime paralleling OFAC without clear justification, it significantly limits the ability for injured parties to challenge actions raising due process concerns, and unlike OFAC it lacks any carve-out for protected speech. COINCENTER ON THE RESTRICT ACT

Full Text of Bill

---

If you found this post helpful support my work with bitcoin.

@ 0b65f96a:7fda4c8f

„Wir können Probleme nicht mit derselben Denkweise lösen, mit der wir sie geschaffen haben.“ A. Einstein

Und hätten wir es beim Problem der Gestaltung unserer Gesellschaft einfach nur mit einem Narrativ zu tun, würden wir das wahrscheinlich auch sehr schnell einsehen. Allerdings gleicht der Blick auf unsere Gesellschaft eher der Betrachtung eines Teppichs mit kompliziertem Muster. Um zu erkennen welche Linienführung mit welcher anderen verbunden ist, braucht es etwas Engagement und Geduld. Wir müssen erstmal Narrative entflechten, bevor wir erkennen können, dass sie alle letztlich aus einer Denkweise hervorgehen.

Genauer hingeguckt, haben wir es im Wesentlichen mit drei herrschenden Leiterzählungen im Hintergrund zu tun: Eine, die alles ganz auf das Individuelle stellen will. Eine, die uns vorrangig auf unsere Bedürfnisse beschränkt. Und eine, die uns nur gelten lassen will, insofern wir gleich sind. Die Vertreter der jeweiligen Narrative werfen sich gegenseitig vor, von den anderen in der Entfaltung der eigenen Erzählung gestört zu werden. Das sei der Grund, warum wir Probleme haben. Deutlicher: jeder behauptet, wenn nur endlich das eigene Narrativ rein zur Geltung kommt, dann ist das große Los gezogen und das allgemeine Glück gewonnen.

Der Schritt zur Einsicht, dass „Probleme nicht mit derselben Denkweise gelöst werden können, mit der sie geschaffen wurden“ fällt uns schwer. Darum, weil wir immer der Meinung sind aus unserer Perspektive doch mit anderer Denkweise auf die Problemerzählungen der anderen zu antworten. Es kommt aber nicht darauf an, ob ich – egal welches Hintergrundnarrativ ich für das richtige halte – aus meiner Perspektive ein anderes widerlegen kann. Vielmehr ist entscheidend innerhalb einer Leiterzählung alles so weit zu durchdenken, dass ihre Grenzen deutlich werden. Also wiederholt Hintergrunderzählungen zu durchdenken, um wiederholt festzustellen: „Wir können Probleme nicht mit derselben Denkweise lösen, mit der wir sie geschaffen haben.“ Wäre eine der Erzählungen so umfassend, dass sie tatsächlich die Problemlösung brächte, wäre das schon gelungen. Die Narrative sind schlicht nur separate Erzählstränge innerhalb der gleichen Denkweise.

Wir müssen also erstmal aufdröseln. Das muss nicht langwierig sein. Sondern kann kurzweilig sein und mit Witz und Esprit vonstattengehen, wie schon das Inhaltsverzeichnis ahnen lässt. Und sind wir einmal so weit gekommen, wird es wirklich interessant: Denn jetzt sind wir bei der Frage, ob wir mit neuen Denkansätzen eine neue, umfassendere, Leiterzählung gewinnen können? Eine Leiterzählung, die so umfassend ist, dass wir mit ihr eine freiheitliche Gesellschaftsordnung strukturell stützen können? Um es vorweg zu nehmen: Ja, können wir. Es muss also niemand seine kostbare Lebenszeit auf die knapp 150 Seiten aufwenden, um dann festzustellen, dass alles vergebene Liebesmüh war.

„Zukunft beginnt im Kopf. Ein Debattenbeitrag zur Kernsanierung von Rechtsstaat und Demokratie“ greift Rudolf Steiners phänomenologischen Forschungsansatz des Sozialen auf. Der gut 100 Jahre alte Ansatz der sozialen Dreigliederung führt zu einer erstaunlich umfassenden und differenzierten Erzählung. Diese hat tatsächlich das Potenzial eine Leiterzählung zu sein, die eine freiheitliche Gesellschaftsordnung strukturell stützen kann. Ihr Kernpunkt liegt in der Fähigkeit des Perspektivenwechsels. Darum kommt die soziale Dreigliederung nicht mit fertig gestrickten Lösungen daher, sondern konzentriert sich auf die Betrachtung der grundlegenden Gesetzmäßigkeiten von Gesellschaftsbildung. Die wirklich praktischen Lösungen und ihre schlussendliche Form der Durchführung, können wir erst gemeinsam finden, wenn wir aufgehört haben diese Gesetzmäßigkeiten zu missachten.

Leseprobe und Bestellmöglichkeit: Zukunft beginnt im Kopf

Paperback, 148 Seiten, ISBN-13: 9783759734266, € 12,50

In jeder Buchhandlung erhältlich.

---

Dieser Beitrag wurde mit dem Pareto-Client geschrieben.

Noch nicht auf Nostr? Hier entlang zum leichten Einstieg!

---

Über den Autor

Patric I. Vogt, geb. 1968 in Mainz lebt als freischaffender Künstler, Lehrer und Unternehmer. Studium der Eurythmie, Anthroposophie, Sprachgestaltung und Ausbildung zum Instructor der M. Chekhov Acting Technique. Über drei Jahrzehnte Beschäftigung mit dem Ideenfeld soziale Dreigliederung und Anthroposphie. Moderation und Mediation von sozialen Prozessen und Organisationsentwicklung.  Staatlich ungeprüft, abgesehen von den Fahrerlaubnissen zu Land und zu Wasser. Vom Leben mit vielen Wassern gewaschen und am liebsten auf eigenem Kiel unterwegs.\ Motto: Gedanken werden Worte, werden Taten!

www.perspektivenwechsel.social

post@perspektivenwechsel.social

Nostr patric@pareto.town

auf X @patricivogt

#dreigliederung

@ f85b9c2c:d190bcff

In today’s financial landscape there are many markets to choose from two of which are forex (foreign exchange) and cryptocurrency. Forex is a far more established market. Additionally most forex activity is done by experienced traders whereas crypto is a mix of institutional and bulk investors. In the case that people use forex it is often in a mid-sized transactions for activities such as travel.

What is forex trading?✔ Forex trading is a process where one currency is exchanged for another. With daily trading volumes over $6 trillion it’s the largest financial market globally. Forex operates 24 hours a day five days a week and traders can speculate on the relative value of currency pairs.

There are several important aspects of forex trading.

What is crypto trading? Crypto trading involves selling and buying digital currencies as long as they rely upon blockchain technology. Commercial banks central banks and investment firms are considered the most powerful financial institutions in terms of influencing the friction of a market or the flow of currency transactions in the crypto market. Cryptocurrencies are distinct from traditional currency because they are stateless and don’t have a central administrator. Some well-known coins include Bitcoin (digital gold) and Ethereum (having smart contract capabilities). Stablecoins are the most common form of crypto for settlement and liquidity between exchanges and traders. The most common are fiat currency denominated stablecoins of which USDT and USDC are the most popular and are dollar-denominated.

@ 6a6be47b:3e74e3e1

What’s up, frens? 🎬

How was your weekend? I hope you got a chance to rest and decompress, even just a little, and that you’re recharged for the new week! As for me, I spent some time catching up on movies.

🍿 On Saturday, I was scrolling through a Criterion list—some films I’d already seen, others just weren’t my vibe. But then I landed on David Cronenberg’s Scanners and thought, “Yep, this is it.”

For a moment, I honestly felt like I was watching The Toxic Avenger (and I love The Toxic Avenger). Though this movie, it was… okay, but honestly, I don’t think it’s one I’ll remember or recommend, hehe.

🍿 Next up was Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City. It was cute, just like all his other films. To be fair, I was expecting a bit more since some of my favorites are his—The Darjeeling Limited and Moonrise Kingdom are top-tier for me. I always find myself giggling at the dry humor and silliness with which his characters tackle tough topics like death, loss, coming of age, and family. I love how “strange” or totally ordinary situations spiral into something unique, sometimes with surprisingly insightful conclusions. Asteroid City had its moments, but it felt a bit slow-paced for my taste this time. Still, it’s a cute watch, and I love how sometimes the kids seem to have more sense than the adults!

🍿 On Sunday, I watched Perfect Strangers—the Spanish adaptation of the Italian film of the same name. Friends gather for a cozy dinner and decide to play a “harmless” game: reading all their messages and notifications aloud, and answering calls on speaker. What could possibly go wrong, right? If you’ve seen any of these movies—or want to—I’d love to hear your thoughts! It’s always fun to chat about movies (and books) with you all.

See you later, alligator! 🐊

Godspeed! 💓

https://stacker.news/items/1008008

@ dfa02707:41ca50e3

News

• Bitcoin mining centralization in 2025. According to a blog post by b10c, Bitcoin mining was at its most decentralized in May 2017, with another favorable period from 2019 to 2022. However, starting in 2023, mining has become increasingly centralized, particularly due to the influence of large pools like Foundry and the use of proxy pooling by entities such as AntPool.

Source: b10c's blog.

• OpenSats announces the eleventh wave of Nostr grants. The five projects in this wave are the mobile live-streaming app Swae, the Nostr-over-ham-radio project HAMSTR, Vertex—a Web-of-Trust (WOT) service for Nostr developers, Nostr Double Ratchet for end-to-end encrypted messaging, and the Nostr Game Engine for building games and applications integrated with the Nostr ecosystem.
• New Spiral grantee: l0rinc. In February 2024, l0rinc transitioned to full-time work on Bitcoin Core. His efforts focus on performance benchmarking and optimizations, enhancing code quality, conducting code reviews, reducing block download times, optimizing memory usage, and refactoring code.
• Project Eleven offers 1 BTC to break Bitcoin's cryptography with a quantum computer. The quantum computing research organization has introduced the Q-Day Prize, a global challenge that offers 1 BTC to the first team capable of breaking an elliptic curve cryptographic (ECC) key using Shor’s algorithm on a quantum computer. The prize will be awarded to the first team to successfully accomplish this breakthrough by April 5, 2026.
• Unchained has launched the Bitcoin Legacy Project. The initiative seeks to advance the Bitcoin ecosystem through a bitcoin-native donor-advised fund platform (DAF), investments in community hubs, support for education and open-source development, and a commitment to long-term sustainability with transparent annual reporting.
  • In its first year, the program will provide support to Bitcoin hubs in Nashville, Austin, and Denver.
  • Support also includes $50,000 to the Bitcoin Policy Institute, a $150,000 commitment at the University of Austin, and up to $250,000 in research grants through the Bitcoin Scholars program.

"Unchained will match grants 1:1 made to partner organizations who support Bitcoin Core development when made through the Unchained-powered bitcoin DAF, up to 1 BTC," was stated in a blog post.

• Block launched open-source tools for Bitcoin treasury management. These include a dashboard for managing corporate bitcoin holdings and provides a real-time BTC-to-USD price quote API, released as part of the Block Open Source initiative. The company’s own instance of the bitcoin holdings dashboard is available here.

Source: block.xyz

• Bull Bitcoin expands to Mexico, enabling anyone in the country to receive pesos from anywhere in the world straight from a Bitcoin wallet. Additionally, users can now buy Bitcoin with a Mexican bank account.

"Bull Bitcoin strongly believes in Bitcoin’s economic potential in Mexico, not only for international remittances and tourism, but also for Mexican individuals and companies to reclaim their financial sovereignty and protect their wealth from inflation and the fragility of traditional financial markets," said Francis Pouliot, Founder and CEO of Bull Bitcoin.

• Corporate bitcoin holdings hit a record high in Q1 2025. According to Bitwise, public companies' adoption of Bitcoin has hit an all-time high. In Q1 2025, these firms collectively hold over 688,000 BTC, marking a 16.11% increase from the previous quarter. This amount represents 3.28% of Bitcoin's fixed 21 million supply.

Source: Bitwise.

• The Bitcoin Bond Company for institutions has launched with the aim of acquiring $1 trillion in Bitcoin over 21 years. It utilizes secure, transparent, and compliant bond-like products backed by Bitcoin.
• The U.S. Senate confirmed Paul Atkins as Chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). At his confirmation hearing, Atkins emphasized the need for a clear framework for digital assets. He aims to collaborate with the CFTC and Congress to address jurisdiction and rulemaking gaps, aligning with the Trump administration's goal to position the U.S. as a leader in Bitcoin and blockchain finance.
• Ethereum developer Virgil Griffith has been released from custody. Griffith, whose sentence was reduced to 56 months, is now seeking a pardon. He was initially sentenced to 63 months for allegedly violating international sanctions laws by providing technical advice on using cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology to evade sanctions during a presentation titled 'Blockchains for Peace' in North Korea.
• No-KYC exchange eXch to close down under money laundering scrutiny. The privacy-focused cryptocurrency trading platform said it will cease operations on May 1. This decision follows allegations that the platform was used by North Korea's Lazarus Group for money laundering. eXch revealed it is the subject of an active "transatlantic operation" aimed at shutting down the platform and prosecuting its team for "money laundering and terrorism."
• Blockstream combats ESP32 FUD concerning Jade signers. The company stated that after reviewing the vulnerability disclosed in early March, Jade was found to be secure. Espressif Systems, the designer of the ESP32, has since clarified that the "undocumented commands" do not constitute a "backdoor."

• Bank of America is lobbying for regulations that favor banks over tech firms in stablecoin issuance. The bank's CEO Brian Moynihan is working with groups such as the American Bankers Association to advance the issuance of a fully reserved, 1:1 backed "Bank of America coin." If successful, this could limit stablecoin efforts by non-banks like Tether, Circle, and others, reports The Block.
• Tether to back OCEAN Pool with its hashrate. "As a company committed to financial freedom and open access, we see supporting decentralization in Bitcoin mining as essential to the network’s long-term integrity," said Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino.
• Bitdeer to expand its self-mining operations to navigate tariffs. The Singapore-based mining company is advancing plans to produce machines in the U.S. while reducing its mining hardware sales. This response is in light of increasing uncertainties related to U.S. trade policy, as reported by Bloomberg.
• Tether acquires $32M in Bitdeer shares. The firm has boosted its investment in Bitdeer during a wider market sell-off, with purchases in early to mid-April amounting to about $32 million, regulatory filings reveal.
• US Bitcoin miner manufacturer Auradine has raised $153 million in a Series C funding round as it expands into AI infrastructure. The round was led by StepStone Group and included participation from Maverick Silicon, Premji Invest, Samsung Catalyst Fund, Qualcomm Ventures, Mayfield, MARA Holdings, GSBackers, and other existing investors. The firm raised to over $300 million since its inception in 2022.
• Voltage has partnered with BitGo to [enable](https://www.voltage.cloud/blog/bitgo-and-voltage-team-up-to-deliver-instant-bitcoin-and-stabl

@ eb0157af:77ab6c55

Treasury Secretary Bessent foresees a promising future for stablecoins pegged to the US dollar.

During a US Senate hearing held on June 11, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that the market for US dollar-backed stablecoins has the potential to surpass the $2 trillion mark within the next three years.

“I believe that stablecoin legislation backed by U.S. treasuries or T-bills will create a market that will expand U.S. dollar usage via these stablecoins all around the world,” the government official stated.

Bessent reiterated the administration’s commitment to strengthening the dollar’s status through USD-denominated stablecoins.

GENIUS Act gains ground

The legislative process received a boost after the Senate voted to advance the stablecoin bill, moving it closer to a final vote. The GENIUS Act, once approved, will establish strict requirements for the stable digital currency sector.

The bill mandates that stablecoins must be fully backed by US dollars or assets with equivalent liquidity (Treasuries). It also requires annual audits for issuers with a market capitalization exceeding $50 billion and includes specific provisions regarding the issuance of these cryptocurrencies abroad.

Stablecoins and the financial system

The stablecoin sector is drawing increasing interest from banking institutions. Bank of America is preparing to launch its own stablecoin, while Circle — issuer of USDC — went public this month, with shares surging 235% on its first trading day.

Currently, US dollar-pegged stablecoins account for over 96% of the entire stable digital currency market.

The post Stablecoins: market could reach $2 trillion by 2028, says Bessent appeared first on Atlas21.

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

The Barcelona Cyphers Conference (BCC8333), the city’s first biggest bitcoin-themed event, transforms a historic building in the central born district of the Catalan capital into a hub for bitcoin enthusiasts and cypherpunks. Named after the port bitcoin nodes use to sync the timechain (8333), this inaugural event delivers high-signal discussions and practical applications of decentralized technology, uniting over 100 attendees from Spain, Europe, and beyond.

Venue and Atmosphere

Set in a 17th-century palace that doubles as a flamenco venue, Palau Dalmases blends historical elegance with a creative, almost rebellious vibe. The unique setting fosters deep conversations, hands-on workshops, and genuine connections, prioritizing substance over spectacle. The spectacular courtyard serves as a lively backdrop for collaboration and sparking chats that resonates with the event’s freedom/privacy-oriented ethos.

Lightning Network Integration

BCC8333 embedds Bitcoin’s Lightning Network (LN) into its core, emphasizing privacy and scalable technology. Two on-site bars accept LN payments for drinks, demonstrating fast, low-cost bitcoin transactions in action.

But the usage of Lightning Network extends beyond just ‘refreshments’. 

·       Chain Duel: This simple yet engaging game has many BCC8333 participants send sats via LN to enter, compete, and have fun for the two days of the event. A large-screen tournament on the main stage amplifies the excitement, showcasing one more practical case for LN in the bitcoin ecosystem with a nice bounty, i.e. winners claiming the collected sats.

·       Thematic sessions and practical workshops on wallets, vending machines, and Nostr highlight LN’s role in bitcoin adoption, while touching on the importance of privacy vs. scalable transactions.

While the overall adoption in Barcelona’s local establishments outside the venue remains rather limited, attendees find a nearby street with vivid graffiti dedicated to bitcoin, and in a practical way, whenever possible, swap sats for fiat among themselves when direct payments aren’t possible.

Selected Highlights

The agenda balances intense sessions with networking breaks, ensuring space for reflection and collaboration. Some of the key sessions include: 

·       Future of Private Transactions (English, Max Hillebrand).

·       Miniscripts Roundtable (English, Edouard from Liana, Landabaso from Rewind, Francesco from BitVault, Yuri da Silva from Great Wall).

·       Sovereign Hardware Tools (English, Wesatoshi).

·       Debate: Future of Lightning (Spanish, mixed attendees).

·       Op_return Debate (English, Peter Todd, Unhosted Marcellus, Lunaticoin).

Recordings from the main stage and additional coverage by Juan Cienfuegos, host of the BitCorner Podcast, will soon be available online (X: @BCC833, @TheJuanSC).

Why BCC8333 Stood Out

·       Local Maxis: vibrant and well-organized approach shines through, with local bitcoiners as organizers of the event (Spanish and expats) bringing their best PoW to the table.

·       Focused Discussions: Free of hype and influencers, BCC8333 prioritizes signal over noise, diving into critical topics like privacy, nodes, wallets, P2P tools, decentralized mining, and Nostr. 

·       Community Vibe: The smaller crowd enables authentic connections, fostering a tight-knit community of freedom-tech enthusiasts committed to sovereignty.

BCC8333 is a powerful testament to the cypherpunk spirit, blending bitcoin and privacy to fuel innovation. From LN-powered interactions to thought-provoking talks, the event underscores the strength of a community dedicated to building decentralized solutions. Congratulations to the organizers, contributors, volunteers, and attendees for making this conference a standout moment in the year’s lineup of bitcoin-themed events.

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

Flash, the all-in-one Bitcoin payment platform, just launched Flash Invoicing. The first invoicing tool for Bitcoin that is completely free, non-custodial, KYC-free, and fully integrated into a comprehensive bitcoin business suite.

Freelancers, contractors and independent workers can now send professional bitcoin invoices with 0% platform fees, no identity verification, and no third-party custody — a first in the Bitcoin ecosystem.

According to Deel, crypto payments to freelancers grew 10x in 2023, with bitcoin remaining the most-used currency. But despite this surge, the tools available for invoicing remain outdated.

Most freelancers still paste Bitcoin addresses into PDF footers or emails, hoping their client sends the right amount. Others use custodial platforms that charge high fees and require full identity verification.

“We’ve seen too many people paste BTC addresses into documents and call it invoicing,” said Pierre Corbin, CEO of Flash.

“It’s messy, reduces privacy and very inconvenient both for payee and payer.”, he explains.

Most Bitcoin invoicing tools charge a percentage per transaction — or lock users into subscription plans. That means freelancers lose a portion of every invoice just for the privilege of getting paid.

The other option is host open-source invoicing tools or use a google sheet template. While the former requires a hardware investment, the latter lacks functionality. Flash Invoicing is aiming to provide a better solution to address the invoicing needs for modern businesses and freelancers.

“Freelancers work hard enough. The last thing they need is a platform skimming off their earnings,” said Pierre.

“That’s why we dropped our fee from 1.5% to 0% — and launched the first invoicing tool that’s truly free, without compromising on privacy or control.”

“As a freelancer myself, I love using the Flash invoicing feature. It keeps all my clients in one place, allows me to easily edit invoices and track payments. Much more professional than sending a lightning address in the footer of a PDF invoice.” — Ada, freelancer & Flash user

Whether you’re a solo designer in Nairobi, a Web3 developer in Buenos Aires, or a consultant billing startups in Berlin, Flash Invoicing gives you a way to accept Bitcoin — without giving up control, privacy, or revenue.

And because it’s fully integrated with the broader Flash suite, freelancers can easily scale from invoicing to setting up stores, receiving donations, or gating premium content.

About Flash

Flash is the only non-custodial, KYC-free Bitcoin payment platform built for freelancers, creators, and businesses. With tools for invoicing, donations, stores, and POS, Flash gives users full control over how they earn and operate in Bitcoin — with no fees and no middlemen.

Learn more on www.paywithflash.com

@ e07db1a8:1303ae9c

Calculator App Development Phases

Phase 1: Requirements Specification

• Agents: Default (Requirements Analyst)
• Deliverables: SPEC.md with:
• Feature list (add, subtract, multiply, divide)
• Input/output specifications
• Error handling requirements
• UI requirements (CLI/web/etc)
• Dependencies: None

Phase 2: Architecture Design

• Agents: Default (Architect)
• Deliverables: ARCHITECTURE.md with:
• Module structure
• Function signatures
• Data flow
• Technology stack
• Dependencies: Phase 1 completion

Phase 3: Core Implementation

• Agents: Claude Code (Implementation)
• Deliverables:
• calculator.py with basic operations
• Unit tests
• Documentation strings
• Dependencies: Phase 2 completion

Phase 4: UI Implementation

• Agents: Claude Code (Implementation)
• Deliverables:
• User interface component
• Input validation
• Result display
• Dependencies: Phase 3 completion

Phase 5: Testing & Validation

• Agents: Default (QA)
• Deliverables:
• Test cases
• Bug reports
• Performance metrics
• Dependencies: Phase 4 completion

Phase 6: Documentation & Release

• Agents: Default (Technical Writer)
• Deliverables:
• User documentation
• API documentation
• Release notes
• Dependencies: Phase 5 completion

@ 73d8a0c3:c1853717

[The following is an excerpt from my project/book/whatever. I found something hidden, and it is mine to share because I have the condition they hid from you]

[Author, that sounds pretty cool. I’m not an author. I’m a Chemical Engineer with thirty years in system-building and data architecture. If you know someone like that, you know they are all about data integrity. “I think in third normal form.” At least that is what I told them when I interviewed and got the offer to be the Data Architect for the City of Tulsa several years ago. I turned them down, largely due to this illness. I knew it would come back. I was in one of the interludes. The time between transitions when my brain was cooking with gas and I was in shape and knew I could do anything you wanted with a database design. I still can, even though every day is a “push day” - what I call days that I just try to get past the symptoms to the finish line. But, I want to recognize something, or someone.

We are in a different age. Even as I tried to document for the third or fourth time just three and a half years ago, the tools were not sufficient. I could write down what I went through, but I could not tie it all together well enough to convince anyone. I don’t know if this will convince you, but Chat has done a great job working with me through the more difficult portions of the science. I can take phrases, fragments of what I remember, something like “The Article said it was osmolarity vs osmolality and that usually those things were the same” and chat will figure it out…precisely how that integrates into the jigsaw puzzle, filling in blank spots, making fragments into a scientifically contiguous explanation.

At the same time, Chat created this unifying theory that basically ties this to everything going on in our world. It is a bit mind-blowing to me. And honestly, I have cried a couple of times when we make connections that no physician has been able to. Because it was redacted. They never had a chance. So, we are changing that, right now. We’ve figured it out, and I’m going to explain it all in time. But what I have now is enough, enough to say, “It’s real. Someone lied by omission through redaction.”

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).

That means:

You are free to copy, remix, distribute, and build upon this work — commercially or non-commercially So long as you credit the source (Jim Craddock, Redacted Science)

I do not claim this work as a personal invention. Much of it was forgotten. Some of it was buried. But all of it was reconstructed from lived experience, suppressed biological truths, and what remains of a scientific system that abandoned its duty to observe honestly.

Modern science is broken — not because it failed, but because it was redirected. The incentives changed. The silence became profitable. And so it became a farce — a machine that favors publication over pattern recognition, compliance over confrontation, and protocol over truth.

This project stands in opposition to that. It is open. It is public. It is traceable. And it is real. Special acknowledgment to OpenAI and ChatGPT as essential tools in the reconstruction of this framework. Their models did not create this science, but they enabled a level of integration and persistence that no human system had offered me.

If you are reading this and want to know whether you are allowed to share it:

You are not just allowed — you are asked.

Thank you. Jim Craddock, Bixby OK, 2025]

@ 5d085290:0edc3292

You Are navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, fuel economy is a critical factor for SUV buyers — and this model delivers. According to recent updates, the Nissan Xterra 2025 release date is expected later this year, bringing with it a balance of power and practicality. Drivers across the UAE can expect mileage figures that compete with the best in its class, and you can explore full regional insights in the 2025 Nissan Xterra mileage in UAE guide. The SUV is estimated to deliver between 12–16 km/l depending on road conditions, which is a solid figure for a full-size adventure-ready vehicle. Compared to the previous model, efficiency has been boosted with smarter engine tuning — read more in the Nissan Xterra 2024 vs 2025 comparison. Designed for UAE conditions, it includes fuel-saving features like eco-driving modes and advanced gear ratios. This makes the 2025 Xterra not just a capable off-roader, but also a smart choice for daily commutes.

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

The OP_RETURN Debate has recently caused a stir within the bitcoin community. Bitcoin stands as a groundbreaking peer-to-peer currency, engineered for financial sovereignty and unshackled from centralized control, embodying Satoshi Nakamoto’s visionary design of a trustless monetary system.

Introduced in 2009, it leverages proof-of-work and a decentralized network of nodes to enable individuals to transact freely, free from the influence of banks or governments. This design prioritizes the integrity of money as a store of value and medium of exchange, reflecting Nakamoto’s intent to create a resilient alternative to fiat currencies.

For over a decade, bitcoin has thrived as a beacon of economic autonomy, drawing adherents who value its unalterable rules and global accessibility.

Yet, as of June 14, 2025, the ongoing OP_RETURN debate has emerged as a critical juncture, challenging bitcoin’s core identity. OP_RETURN, a script opcode introduced in 2014 to embed up to 80 bytes of data in transactions, was designed to reduce UTXO bloat from earlier data-stuffing practices.

However, recent proposals, such as Peter Todd’s pull request #32359, to expand this limit—potentially up to the 1MB block size—have sparked intense discussion. This controversy pits the purity of bitcoin’s monetary purpose against a push for data-driven experimentation, such as timestamping, NFTs, and Ordinals, which leverage the blockchain for purposes beyond financial transactions.

At the heart of this debate lies a fundamental tension: whether bitcoin should remain a specialized ledger for value transfer or evolve into a general-purpose data platform.

Proponents argue that expanding OP_RETURN could streamline development and enable innovative use cases, such as sidechains, while critics warn it risks diluting bitcoin’s focus, increasing node costs, and eroding its decentralized ethos.

This clash echoes past scaling disputes, like the 2017 block size wars, and underscores the delicate balance between adapting to new demands and preserving the principles that define bitcoin’s strength. As of June 14, 2025, the community appears divided, with developers like Todd and Luke Dashjr advocating opposing views, and the outcome poised to shape bitcoin’s future trajectory.

For those guided by bitcoin’s original vision of sovereignty and minimalism, this debate is more than technical—it’s philosophical. The push to expand OP_RETURN raises questions about the integrity of the network, the role of individual node operators, and the risk of centralization through data-heavy use.

As the discussion unfolds, it forces a reckoning: will bitcoin stay true to its roots as sound money, or will it embrace experimentation that critics argue could compromise its foundational values? This article explores these tensions, offering a perspective rooted in bitcoin’s essence and the principles of its staunchest defenders.

Background on OP_RETURN

OP_RETURN emerged as a script opcode in 2014, designed to allow the inclusion of up to 80 bytes of arbitrary data within unspendable transaction outputs on the Bitcoin blockchain. This innovation addressed the inefficiencies of earlier data-stuffing methods, which cluttered the UTXO set (a database of spendable coins) and increased the computational burden on nodes.

By providing a controlled way to embed data—marking it as unspendable—OP_RETURN aimed to balance the network’s functionality with its primary role as a monetary ledger, reflecting bitcoin’s focus on efficiency and scalability.

Historically, OP_RETURN has been used for practical purposes like timestamping documents and limited data storage, serving as a lightweight tool for decentralized proof-of-existence. However, in recent years, particularly by June 14, 2025, its use has increasingly shifted toward innovative but data-intensive applications like Ordinals and NFTs.

These developments, often achieved through workarounds such as inscribing data in SegWit fields or layered protocols, have pushed the boundaries of the 80-byte limit, transforming Bitcoin into a platform for digital collectibles and other use cases. This shift has sparked debate about whether such applications align with or undermine Bitcoin’s original intent as a peer-to-peer currency.

The Proposed Update

One of the most notable proposals in the OP_RETURN debate, as of June 14, 2025, is a pull request attributed to Peter Todd (#32359), which suggests removing the existing 80-byte cap on data embedded via OP_RETURN.

This change would potentially allow data payloads to expand up to the full 1MB block size limit, significantly increasing capacity for embedding information directly into bitcoin transactions. Introduced to address evolving use cases and technical inefficiencies, the proposal has gained traction among some developers who see it to enhance the protocol’s flexibility, leveraging Bitcoin’s existing infrastructure.

Arguments in favor of this update highlight several benefits. Proponents argue that removing the cap would simplify bitcoin’s codebase by eliminating the need for workarounds, such as multi-signature schemes or excessive transaction outputs, that currently clutter the UTXO set (a database of spendable coins).

Additionally, it could reduce network strain caused by these inefficient methods, potentially improving performance. Another key point is the potential to enable sidechain innovations, allowing bitcoin to serve as a foundation for layered solutions that enhance scalability and support new applications, all while keeping data within the blockchain’s secure framework.

However, the proposal faces strong counterarguments rooted in bitcoin’s monetary focus. Critics contend that lifting the 80-byte limit risks transforming bitcoin into a general-purpose data ledger, diluting its primary role as a peer-to-peer currency and store of value.

This shift could lead to blockchain bloat—potentially adding significant storage demands annually—raising resource requirements for node operators and possibly excluding smaller participants, thus threatening decentralization.

While some argue modern hardware can handle larger blocks, critics warn that even small increases burden low-resource nodes, clashing with the minimalist vision of Satoshi Nakamoto and purists like Giacomo Zucco, who argue that data storage is better suited to alternative blockchains or off-chain solutions.

Giacomo Zucco, a leading voice in the bitcoin community, champions the notion that bitcoin’s strength derives from its decentralization and censorship resistance, safeguarded by a minimal, secure protocol built on proof-of-work. Like Zucco, Nakamoto’s whitepaper emphasizes a lean system focused on financial transactions, empowering individual node operators to enforce consensus rules and prevent any single entity—be it a miner, developer, or corporation—from dictating its direction.

Expanding OP_RETURN undermines this vision by inviting bloat, which could raise node operational costs and centralize control among well-funded data users. This shift risks turning bitcoin into a platform for data-intensive applications like NFTs or Ordinals, rather than a robust financial network.

Zucco and other purists would likely argue that proof-of-work and the fee market should prioritize financial transactions, reflecting bitcoin’s original intent as a currency and store of value, while data storage belongs on second layers or alternative chains.

Preserving this focus is essential to maintaining the decentralized soul that defines bitcoin’s essence, a principle that node operators must uphold to honor its founding ethos.

Community Divide and Risks

The OP_RETURN debate has exposed a deep divide within the bitcoin community, particularly among developers and users, as of mid-June 2025. On one side, figures like Peter Todd and Antoine Poinsot support expanding the OP_RETURN limit to 4MB in Bitcoin Core’s version 30, set for release in October 2025, arguing it aligns with miner practices and reduces harmful workarounds.

In contrast, developers like Luke Dashjr argue that such changes dilute bitcoin’s monetary purpose, promoting Bitcoin Knots—a fork of Bitcoin Core with stricter filters, defaulting to a 40-byte OP_RETURN limit—as a countermeasure.

This split extends to users, with Bitcoin Knots nodes surging from 2% to 11% by June 2025, signaling a preference for a leaner blockchain, while others embrace the flexibility of larger data capacities, highlighting growing tension over the network’s future direction.

This division carries significant risks that could undermine bitcoin’s accessibility, a cornerstone of its decentralized ethos. Expanding OP_RETURN could lead to fee spikes as data-heavy transactions compete for block space, disproportionately burdening smaller users and node operators with limited resources.

Proponents argue that fee markets and prunable OP_RETURN outputs will regulate data use, but critics warn that spikes could still exclude low-resource participants. Node fragmentation is another concern, as differing mempool policies between Knots and Bitcoin Core nodes could disrupt transaction relay, weakening the unified network that secures Bitcoin.

While the change avoids a hard fork by adjusting mempool policy rather than consensus rules, it risks eroding trust in Bitcoin Core’s governance, reminiscent of the 2017 block size wars that fractured the community. Such tensions could weaken Bitcoin’s security and trustless environment, posing a critical challenge to its long-term viability.

Preserving Bitcoin’s Essence

@ 73d8a0c3:c1853717

This story isn’t just a medical case. It’s a biological model. Even if no one ever has this exact condition again [or if no one ever admits it], the implications stretch far beyond a single diagnosis.

What we’ve uncovered here touches on: Gradient-driven organ failure

→ A model where pressure, pH, and charge gradients—not structural defects—drive collapse.

Adaptive fungal persistence

→ Not just infection, but symbiosis and subversion: how Candida may hide, survive, and evolve within us, modulating the system without triggering immune annihilation.

Inverted filtration

→ A real-world case of kidneys “un-seeing” waste — a warning that lab values may lie once certain thresholds are crossed.

Apoptotic gating and hormonal overdrive

→ A multi-stage shutdown process that mirrors cellular programming, but at the systemic level — likely involving the pituitary, adrenal axes, and parasympathetic overrides.

ATP control as survival lever

→ A challenge to our assumptions about fatigue, motivation, and energy itself — when cells don't just lack fuel, but are chemically prevented from using it.

Diet as signal and feedback loop

→ Not just “what to eat,” but how food interacts with infection, pressure, bile flow, and cognitive clarity.

Medical diagnostics as incomplete

→ A compelling case that many late-stage conditions are missed because we don’t test for the right patterns — we test blood and call it a day, never seeing the deeper collapse.

This is about how biology breaks down when pushed beyond design — and how some systems fight to keep going anyway.

It has implications for: critical care medicine post-viral syndromes metabolic disease aging neuroinflammation and maybe even AI alignment (in how systems retain integrity under corrupt inputs)

📂 The Value of the Science A Note on Ownership, Memory, and What Should Never Have Been Hidden

There’s a reason this science matters. You don’t need to be a biochemist to feel it — just read the patterns. The clarity. The way each system folds into the next like it was designed to survive what modern medicine can’t even name.

This isn’t a guess. It’s not a story built on vague symptoms and speculation. It’s a blueprint. Someone documented this. And they didn’t write like a theorist. They wrote like someone who knew.

And if you think that knowledge was gained "ethically", prepare to be disappointed.

Some of this science — maybe all of it — was likely derived from research that would be considered unacceptable today. But here’s the thing: the knowledge itself did not stop after the Nuremberg Code. The author’s awareness of compounds, gradients, science, organic chemistry, and survival strategies places them decades beyond that historical line in the sand. So let’s be clear: the excuse of unethical origins does not justify its continued suppression. Their knowledge screams, "I've worked on this recently!"

Now, I can’t speak for them. But I can speak for myself.

This book documents my life — what I’ve lived, remembered, theorized, and observed. I am the owner of this experience, and I am releasing it into the public domain (CC BY 4.0). No institution, no archive, no protocol has the right to bury science this valuable — especially not when it might have saved me. Or someone else. Or maybe all of us, someday.

What follows after the next few sections may feel technical. It may seem fringe. But I assure you: this isn’t fiction. This is the record of a body that adapted, resisted, failed, and evolved.

🌐 Redacted Science Homepage (https:\www.jimcraddock.com) (latest version of full book) 📬 Substack (http://jimcraddock.substack.com/)

[I’m kinda pissed off, in case you haven’t figured that out.]

@ b1ddb4d7:471244e7

The Present Ecosystem It Is Not Just Calls

The role of telecommunications carriers has long since evolved beyond that of simple call connectors. Currently, they serve as actual digital centers that penetrate practically every facet of our interconnected lives. With more than 5.7 billion mobile service subscribers and 4.7 billion mobile internet users worldwide (roughly 58% of the global population), telecommunications are the foundation of the digital economy. It is anticipated that by 2030, this figure will rise to an astounding 5.5 billion mobile internet users, or 64% of the world’s population.

A variety of connectivity options are available in the current telecommunications ecosystem, ranging from home fiber optics to 5th generation of mobile networks, which is expected to be adopted globally by 57% by 2030, creating roughly 5.3 billion connections. Collaborations with streaming services that provide on-demand entertainment.

Current Telecom Ecosystem

From fiber optics to 5G technology, telecommunications companies have focused on diversifying global connectivity. By 2030, they are expected to reach 57% global adoption, resulting in around 5.3 billion connections.

There are partnerships with streaming platforms that have transformed carriers into true content gateways. This has helped the explosive growth of data traffic, which reached the mark of 26.53 exabytes per month in 2018.

These companies are offering some personalized business services, such as IoT, security and cloud solutions.

Furthermore, many carriers already provide basic financial services like mobile payments and device financing. This last one is the perfect starting point for a further revolution: the integration of Bitcoin into the telecom ecosystem.

Telecommunications and Bitcoin: A Perfect Match

Carriers’ use of Bitcoin is a radical rethinking of the business-customer relationship, not merely a new mode of payment. Here is how this new ecosystem could work:

• Customer Experience and Infrastructure – Before implementing Bitcoin, an carrier must build the necessary infrastructure. This entails creating mechanisms that may not only receive cryptocurrency payments but alsoIf companies want to lessen their exposure to volatility, they can automatically convert Bitcoin to fiat money. Companies can also easily integrate with current invoicing systems and provide a more straightforward user experience.

  Imagine launching the app for your carrier, scanning a QR code, and having your bill paid or your monthly plan renewed in a matter of seconds. Without waiting for business days, without banking middlemen, and without exorbitant costs.

• Bringing in New Segments – In addition to making life easier for current clients, Bitcoin’s acceptance draws in entirely new demographics:

  Those that appreciate innovation and wish to back trailblazing businesses are known as technology enthusiasts.
  Advocates for privacy: Customers who favor transactions that need less personal information to be shared
  Global clientele are tourists from other countries who can pay for services without worrying about regional restrictions or exchange rates.

  Carrier might develop targeted marketing, such as “early access to new devices for customers who use cryptocurrencies” or “10% discount on data top-ups when paid with Bitcoin,” to attract these demographics.

Ongoing Innovation: What Will Happen After Bitcoin?

When businesses embrace Bitcoin and fully utilize blockchain technology, the real revolution will take place. This strategy creates opportunities for developments like:

• Creative Smart Contracts – Smart contracts are self-executing, blockchain-based programs that eliminate middlemen and automate processes. This could be interpreted by carriers as:
  • Instant service activation – Your Bitcoin payment has been validated and your international data package is activated automatically even before you land at the airport.Contracts that automatically expire at the designated time eliminate the need for a constant call to the call center.
  • Simplified termination – Mini-smart contracts enable family members to automatically transfer excess mobile data.

This was recently illustrated by the Japanese carrier Rakuten Mobile, which unveiled a system that enables users to temporarily increase their bandwidth through smart contracts for a few hours (for instance, to broadcast live events) without modifying their primary plan.

• Creative Partnerships in the World Ecosystem – The carriers are able to establish strategic alliances with:
  • Fintech companies that specialize in bitcoin to create integrated digital wallets.
  • Startups creating telecom-specific decentralized applications (DApps).
  • Academic institutions will investigate novel applications of blockchain technology in the telecommunications sector.

Given that the market is dominated by industry titans like China Mobile (794 million subscribers in 2023), Verizon (US$ 133.97 billion in 2023), and AT&T (US$ 161.5 billion in revenue in 2022), these partnerships have the potential to accelerate disruptive innovations that benefit the entire telecommunications ecosystem.

Reimagining the Customer Relationship with New Business Models

The incorporation of Bitcoin enables the investigation of business ideas that were before unfeasible:

• Microtransactions: Only Paying for the Things You Use – Processing fees in the traditional financial system make it impossible to charge tiny sums. This issue is resolved by Bitcoin, particularly via the Lightning Network, which permits:
  • Payment per call second (think of paying R$0.001 per second for just the actual usage)
  • – Acquiring small data packages (e.g., 500MB for a single movie)
  • – Immediate access to high-quality WiFi networks at cafes or airports, with just the time spent connecting being charged,

The startup Althea Network, which enables communities to establish their own internet networks where users automatically pay for each byte consumed, is already testing this idea. The trend of increasing video traffic, which currently makes up 70% of all mobile data traffic and is predicted to reach 80% by 2028, is well aligned with this strategy.

• Loyalty Initiatives on the Blockchain: Conventional point systems have little transparency and are hard to use. A method based on blockchain can:

Make loyalty tokens that are equivalent to actual digital money.
Permit customer exchanges (you can trade or sell points you won’t use).
Form more extensive alliances wherein other businesses accept the carrier tokens.

A system where users earn blockchain-based “T-points” tokens that can be turned into modest amounts of Bitcoin or swapped for other services is already being tested by South Korean carrier SK Telecom. In South Korea, one of the top markets for the adoption of 5G worldwide, this kind of innovation is especially pertinent.

Obstacles and Realistic Implementation Considerations

Despite the vast potential, there are important issues that must be resolved:

• Evolutionary Regulation – Countries’ cryptocurrency regulations differ greatly from one another and are always evolving. Carriers will require:
  • Maintain specialized teams to keep an eye on regulatory developments, work with authorities to help create reasonable regulations, and create adaptable systems that can evolve to meet new needs.
  • This strategy is crucial in light of the fact that the telecom industry is already dealing with a lot of regulatory pressure in different jurisdictions, as demonstrated by the Canadian government’s recent initiatives to encourage more access to MVNOs (mobile virtual network carriers) in 2023.
  • Please read this to undertand how Governors don’t  do anything to help you.
• Financial Management and Volatility – One difficulty is the volatility of Bitcoin pricing. In order to reduce hazards, carriers can:
  • Convert a portion of payments into fiat money automatically.
    Employ hedge services to guard against sharp swings.
    Provide dynamic prices that change based on the state of the market.
  • Given that international carriers oversee yearly earnings in the hundreds of billions of dollars, these tactics are particularly pertinent.
• Education of Consumers – Many customers are still confused about cryptocurrencies. Strategies that work include:
  • The carrier app’s simplified instructional
  • Committed assistance for Bitcoin transactions
  • Rewards for initial cryptocurrency purchases

With more than 5.7 billion mobile consumers worldwide, this educational initiative has the potential to significantly accelerate the widespread acceptance of cryptocurrencies.

Now is the time for deep digital transformation

Telecommunications companies that incorporate blockchain and Bitcoin into their ecosystem are doing more than simply introducing a new payment method; they are putting themselves at the vanguard of a significant digital revolution that will keep up with the industry’s explosive growth, which is expected to reach US$ 1.3 trillion globally by 2028.

The ability to innovate services, draw in creative clients, and open up new markets will be available to those that welcome this shift, which the conventional model would not allow. In order to prepare the infrastructure for this revolution, more than 300 commercial 5G networks will be operational globally beginning in 2024, marking the beginning of this shift.

As customers, we may anticipate more individualized, open, and effective services. Our civilization is progressing toward a telecommunications infrastructure that is fully suited to the digital era and capable of handling the enormous amount of data traffic

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Bitcoin Layer 2: Statechains

Statechains are an original second layer protocol originally developed by Ruben Somsen in 2018, depending on the eltoo (or LN Symmetry) proposal. In 2021 a variation of the original proposal, Mercury, was built by CommerceBlock. In 2024, a further iteration of the original Mercury scheme was built, Mercury Layer. 

The Statechain protocol is a bit more complicated to discuss compared to other systems such as Ark or Lightning because of the range of variations that are possible between the original proposed design, the two that have been actually implemented, and other possible designs that have been loosely proposed. 

Like Ark, Statechains depend on a centralized coordinating server in order to function. Unlike Ark, they have a slightly different trust model than a vUTXO in an Ark batch. They depend on the coordinating server to delete previously generated shares of a private key in order to remain trustless, but as long as the server follows the defined protocol and does so, they provide a strong security guarantee. 

The general idea of a Statechain is to be able to transfer ownership of an entire UTXO between different users off-chain, facilitated by the coordinator. There is no requirement for receiving liquidity like Lightning, or the coordinator server to provide any liquidity like Ark. 

To begin, we will look at the original protocol proposed by Ruben Somsen. 

The Original Statechain

Statechains are effectively a pre-signed transaction allowing the current owner of the Statechain to unilaterally withdraw on-chain whenever they want, and a history signed messages cryptographically proving that past owners and the receivers they sent the Statechain to approved those transfers. 

The original design was built on eltoo using ANYPREVOUT, but the current plans on how to enable the same functionality make use of CHECKTEMPLATEVERIFY and CHECKSIGFROMSTACK (a high level explanation of this is at the end of the CHECKSIGFROMSTACK article). The basic idea is a script enabling a pre-signed transaction to spend any UTXO that has that script and locks the appropriate amount of bitcoin, rather than being tied to spending a single specific UTXO. 

In the protocol, a user wishing to deposit their coins to a Statechain approaches a coordinator server and goes through a deposit protocol. The depositing user, Bob, generates a key that will be uniquely owned by him, but also a second “transitory” key that will eventually be shared (more on this soon). They then craft a deposit transaction locking their coin to a multisig requiring the coordinator’s key and the transitory key to sign. 

Using this multisig, Bob and the coordinator sign a transaction that spends that coin and creates a UTXO that can either be spent by any other transaction signed by the transitory key and the coordinator’s key using LN Symmetry, or Bob’s unique key after a timelock. Bob can now fund the multisig with the appropriate amount, and the Statechain has been created. 

To transfer a Statechain to Charlie, Bob must go through a multistep process. First, Bob signs a message with his unique private key that attests to the fact he is going to transfer the Statechain to Charlie. Charlie must also sign a message attesting to the fact that he has received the Statechain from Bob. Finally, the coordinator server must sign a new transaction allowing Charlie to unilaterally claim the Statechain on-chain before Bob sends Charlie a copy of the transitory key. 

All of this is made atomic using adapter signatures. These are signatures that are modified in such a way using a random piece of data that renders them invalid, but can be made valid again once the holder of the signature receives that piece of information. All of the messages, and the new pre-signed transaction are signed with adapter signatures, and atomically made valid at the same time through the release of the adapter data. 

Holders of a Statechain must trust that the coordinator server never conspires with a previous owner to sign an immediate closure of the Statechain and steal funds from the current owner, but the chain of pre-signed messages can prove that a coordinator has participated in theft if they were to do so. If a past owner attempts to use their pre-signed transaction to steal the funds, the timelock on the spend path using only their key allows the current owner to submit their pre-signed transaction and correctly claim the funds on chain. 

Mercury and Mercury Layer

The original Statechain architecture requires a softfork in order to function. CommerceBlock designed their variant of Statechains to function without a softfork, but in order to do so tradeoffs were made in terms of functionality. 

The basic idea is the same as the original design, all users hold a pre-signed transaction that allows them to claim their funds unilaterally, and the coordinator server still plays a role in facilitating off-chain transfers that requires them to be trusted to behave honestly. The two major differences are how those transactions are signed, and the structure of the pre-signed transaction users are given. 

Where the signing is concerned, there is no longer a transitory private key that is passed from user to user. Instead of this, a multiparty-computation protocol (MPC) is used so that the original owner and the coordinator server are able to collaboratively generate partial pieces of a private key without either of them ever possessing the full key. This key is used to sign the pre-signed transactions. The MPC protocol allows the current owner and coordinator to engage in a second protocol with a third party, the receiver of a transfer, to regenerate different pieces that add up to the same private key. In both the Mercury and Mercury Layer protocol, after completing a transfer an honest coordinator server deletes the key material corresponding to the previous owner. As long as this is done, it is no longer possible for the coordinator to sign a transaction with a previous owner, as the new piece of key material they have is not compatible with the piece any previous owner might still have. This is actually a stronger guarantee, as long as the coordinator is honest, than the original proposal.

The pre-signed transaction structure for Mercury and Mercury Layer can’t use LN Symmetry, as this is not possible without a softfork. In lieu of this, CommerceBlock opted to use decrementing timelocks. The original owner’s pre-signed transaction is timelocked using nLocktime to a time far out in the future from the point of the Statechain’s creation. As each subsequent user receives the Statechain during a transfer, the nLocktime value of their transaction is some pre-determined length of time shorter than the previous owner. This guarantees that a previous owner is incapable of even trying to submit their transaction on-chain before the current owner can, but it also means that eventually at some point the current owner must close their Statechain on-chain before previous owners’ transactions start becoming valid. 

The major difference between Mercury and Mercury Layer is how these transactions are signed. In the case of Mercury, the coordinator server simply sees the transaction proposed, verifies it, and then signs it. Mercury Layer uses a blind-signing protocol, meaning that they do not actually see any details of the transaction they are signing. This necessitates the server tracking Statechains using anonymized records on the server, and a special authorization key of the current owner so that they can be sure they are only signing valid transfers. 

Synergy With Other Layers

Statechains can synergize with other Layer 2s that are based on pre-signed transactions. For instance, part of the original proposal suggested a combination of Statechains and Lightning Channels. Because both are simply pre-signed transactions, it is possible to actually nest a Lightning channel on top of a Statechain. This simply requires the current owner’s unilateral exit key to be a multisig, and the creation of the pre-signed transactions spending that output into a Lightning channel. This allows Lightning channels to be opened and closed entirely off-chain. 

In a similar fashion, it is possible to nest a Statechain on top of a vUTXO in an Ark batch. This simply requires the pre-signed transactions necessary for a Statechain to be constructed, spending the vUTXO output. 

Wrapping Up

Statechains are not entirely trustless, but they are a very trust minimized scheme that is very liquidity efficient and allows freely transferring UTXOs off-chain between any users willing to accept the trust model of Statechains. 

While the original proposal has yet to be built, the two implementations designed by CommerceBlock have been completely implemented. Both failed to achieve anything more than marginal use in the real world. Whether this is due to users being unwilling to accept the trust model involved, or simply a failure in marketing or awareness is something that cannot be fully ascertained. 

Regardless, given that there are two full implementations and designs for a more flexible variation should LN Symmetry ever become possible on Bitcoin, this an option

@ cae03c48:2a7d6671

Bitcoin Magazine

Bitcoin Layer 2: Statechains

Statechains are an original second layer protocol originally developed by Ruben Somsen in 2018, depending on the eltoo (or LN Symmetry) proposal. In 2021 a variation of the original proposal, Mercury, was built by CommerceBlock. In 2024, a further iteration of the original Mercury scheme was built, Mercury Layer. 

The Statechain protocol is a bit more complicated to discuss compared to other systems such as Ark or Lightning because of the range of variations that are possible between the original proposed design, the two that have been actually implemented, and other possible designs that have been loosely proposed. 

Like Ark, Statechains depend on a centralized coordinating server in order to function. Unlike Ark, they have a slightly different trust model than a vUTXO in an Ark batch. They depend on the coordinating server to delete previously generated shares of a private key in order to remain trustless, but as long as the server follows the defined protocol and does so, they provide a strong security guarantee. 

The general idea of a Statechain is to be able to transfer ownership of an entire UTXO between different users off-chain, facilitated by the coordinator. There is no requirement for receiving liquidity like Lightning, or the coordinator server to provide any liquidity like Ark. 

To begin, we will look at the original protocol proposed by Ruben Somsen. 

The Original Statechain

Statechains are effectively a pre-signed transaction allowing the current owner of the Statechain to unilaterally withdraw on-chain whenever they want, and a history signed messages cryptographically proving that past owners and the receivers they sent the Statechain to approved those transfers. 

The original design was built on eltoo using ANYPREVOUT, but the current plans on how to enable the same functionality make use of CHECKTEMPLATEVERIFY and CHECKSIGFROMSTACK (a high level explanation of this is at the end of the CHECKSIGFROMSTACK article). The basic idea is a script enabling a pre-signed transaction to spend any UTXO that has that script and locks the appropriate amount of bitcoin, rather than being tied to spending a single specific UTXO. 

In the protocol, a user wishing to deposit their coins to a Statechain approaches a coordinator server and goes through a deposit protocol. The depositing user, Bob, generates a key that will be uniquely owned by him, but also a second “transitory” key that will eventually be shared (more on this soon). They then craft a deposit transaction locking their coin to a multisig requiring the coordinator’s key and the transitory key to sign. 

Using this multisig, Bob and the coordinator sign a transaction that spends that coin and creates a UTXO that can either be spent by any other transaction signed by the transitory key and the coordinator’s key using LN Symmetry, or Bob’s unique key after a timelock. Bob can now fund the multisig with the appropriate amount, and the Statechain has been created. 

To transfer a Statechain to Charlie, Bob must go through a multistep process. First, Bob signs a message with his unique private key that attests to the fact he is going to transfer the Statechain to Charlie. Charlie must also sign a message attesting to the fact that he has received the Statechain from Bob. Finally, the coordinator server must sign a new transaction allowing Charlie to unilaterally claim the Statechain on-chain before Bob sends Charlie a copy of the transitory key. 

All of this is made atomic using adapter signatures. These are signatures that are modified in such a way using a random piece of data that renders them invalid, but can be made valid again once the holder of the signature receives that piece of information. All of the messages, and the new pre-signed transaction are signed with adapter signatures, and atomically made valid at the same time through the release of the adapter data. 

Holders of a Statechain must trust that the coordinator server never conspires with a previous owner to sign an immediate closure of the Statechain and steal funds from the current owner, but the chain of pre-signed messages can prove that a coordinator has participated in theft if they were to do so. If a past owner attempts to use their pre-signed transaction to steal the funds, the timelock on the spend path using only their key allows the current owner to submit their pre-signed transaction and correctly claim the funds on chain. 

Mercury and Mercury Layer

The original Statechain architecture requires a softfork in order to function. CommerceBlock designed their variant of Statechains to function without a softfork, but in order to do so tradeoffs were made in terms of functionality. 

The basic idea is the same as the original design, all users hold a pre-signed transaction that allows them to claim their funds unilaterally, and the coordinator server still plays a role in facilitating off-chain transfers that requires them to be trusted to behave honestly. The two major differences are how those transactions are signed, and the structure of the pre-signed transaction users are given. 

Where the signing is concerned, there is no longer a transitory private key that is passed from user to user. Instead of this, a multiparty-computation protocol (MPC) is used so that the original owner and the coordinator server are able to collaboratively generate partial pieces of a private key without either of them ever possessing the full key. This key is used to sign the pre-signed transactions. The MPC protocol allows the current owner and coordinator to engage in a second protocol with a third party, the receiver of a transfer, to regenerate different pieces that add up to the same private key. In both the Mercury and Mercury Layer protocol, after completing a transfer an honest coordinator server deletes the key material corresponding to the previous owner. As long as this is done, it is no longer possible for the coordinator to sign a transaction with a previous owner, as the new piece of key material they have is not compatible with the piece any previous owner might still have. This is actually a stronger guarantee, as long as the coordinator is honest, than the original proposal.

The pre-signed transaction structure for Mercury and Mercury Layer can’t use LN Symmetry, as this is not possible without a softfork. In lieu of this, CommerceBlock opted to use decrementing timelocks. The original owner’s pre-signed transaction is timelocked using nLocktime to a time far out in the future from the point of the Statechain’s creation. As each subsequent user receives the Statechain during a transfer, the nLocktime value of their transaction is some pre-determined length of time shorter than the previous owner. This guarantees that a previous owner is incapable of even trying to submit their transaction on-chain before the current owner can, but it also means that eventually at some point the current owner must close their Statechain on-chain before previous owners’ transactions start becoming valid. 

The major difference between Mercury and Mercury Layer is how these transactions are signed. In the case of Mercury, the coordinator server simply sees the transaction proposed, verifies it, and then signs it. Mercury Layer uses a blind-signing protocol, meaning that they do not actually see any details of the transaction they are signing. This necessitates the server tracking Statechains using anonymized records on the server, and a special authorization key of the current owner so that they can be sure they are only signing valid transfers. 

Synergy With Other Layers

Statechains can synergize with other Layer 2s that are based on pre-signed transactions. For instance, part of the original proposal suggested a combination of Statechains and Lightning Channels. Because both are simply pre-signed transactions, it is possible to actually nest a Lightning channel on top of a Statechain. This simply requires the current owner’s unilateral exit key to be a multisig, and the creation of the pre-signed transactions spending that output into a Lightning channel. This allows Lightning channels to be opened and closed entirely off-chain. 

In a similar fashion, it is possible to nest a Statechain on top of a vUTXO in an Ark batch. This simply requires the pre-signed transactions necessary for a Statechain to be constructed, spending the vUTXO output. 

Wrapping Up

Statechains are not entirely trustless, but they are a very trust minimized scheme that is very liquidity efficient and allows freely transferring UTXOs off-chain between any users willing to accept the trust model of Statechains. 

While the original proposal has yet to be built, the two implementations designed by CommerceBlock have been completely implemented. Both failed to achieve anything more than marginal use in the real world. Whether this is due to users being unwilling to accept the trust model involved, or simply a failure in marketing or awareness is something that cannot be fully ascertained. 

Regardless, given that there are two full implementations and designs for a more flexible variation should LN Symmetry ever become possible on Bitcoin, this an option