Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

XRP Scams Trigger Panic as Ripple Cracks Down on Fraud

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency.

Ripple’s XRP (CRYPTO:XRP) has become the latest cryptocurrency in the spotlight—not for innovation, but for the growing storm of XRP scams that have rocked its community and rattled investor confidence. In July 2025, the XRP price dropped 10.34% following revelations that impersonation scams targeting XRP holders have cost investors an estimated $2.1 billion. Ripple Labs is now scrambling to contain the fallout, enhancing security protocols and calling for stronger enforcement as scam tactics grow increasingly sophisticated.

Deepfake Threats and Fake Giveaways on the Rise

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has issued repeated public warnings about fraudulent videos, deepfake impersonations, and fake XRP giveaways circulating on platforms like YouTube and X. Many of these XRP scams convincingly mimic Ripple’s official branding, often tricking even savvy investors into surrendering personal information or crypto assets.

Garlinghouse has urged community members—often referred to as the “XRP Army”—to stay vigilant, report suspicious accounts, and avoid engaging with any offer promising free XRP in exchange for small deposits. These scams not only harm individual investors but also erode trust in XRP itself, leading to greater volatility.

Ripple Tightens Security Amid $2.1 Billion in Losses

In response to the crisis, Ripple has taken measurable steps to mitigate further damage. The company has upgraded wallet security protocols, partnered with top cybersecurity firms, and is deploying AI-powered monitoring systems to detect fraudulent activity in real-time. Despite these efforts, scammers are evolving rapidly, now using artificial intelligence to create deepfakes that imitate Ripple executives with uncanny accuracy.

Ripple has also intensified community outreach to educate users about red flags and how to verify official communication. Community figures like MackAttackXRP have amplified these warnings, urging the XRP Army to practice “collective vigilance” in combating the rising tide of fraud.

DOJ Crypto Seizure Reveals Broader Enforcement Challenges

The rise in XRP scams reflects a broader systemic issue in crypto regulation. In a recent case unrelated to Ripple, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) seized $7.1 million in crypto assets linked to a fraudulent oil and gas investment scheme. While that case didn’t involve XRP, it underscores how cross-border anonymity in blockchain transactions complicates asset tracing and recovery.

The DOJ’s actions point to a potential shift toward proactive enforcement. However, critics note that the recovery rate remains low—just a fraction of the $97 million stolen was returned to victims. These cases illustrate the limits of existing legal tools in an ecosystem designed around decentralization and pseudonymity.

Market Impact: XRP Price Volatility and Investor Sentiment

The combination of scam activity and a broader liquidity crunch contributed to the 10.34% price drop in XRP during July 2025. Analysts point to shaken investor confidence, especially among retail holders who have suffered significant losses. At the same time, uncertainty around global regulatory approaches to crypto fraud continues to put downward pressure on XRP.

Ripple’s leadership is attempting to stabilize sentiment by emphasizing long-term growth and transparency. But for many investors, the damage is already done. Rebuilding trust will take time and coordinated action from the private sector, regulators, and the broader crypto community.

Community Action Is the Best Defense

While Ripple boosts security and regulators pursue criminals, the community remains the first line of defense. Garlinghouse and other leaders are calling on XRP supporters to double down on reporting suspicious content and educating newcomers about the dangers of XRP scams.

As Ripple works to reinforce its legitimacy in a volatile crypto landscape, the battle against impersonation fraud is far from over. It will take collective vigilance, improved technology, and international cooperation to reduce crypto’s attractiveness to bad actors.

Until then, XRP scams remain one of the biggest threats to the digital asset’s future—and a cautionary tale for the entire cryptocurrency industry.

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PayPal Crypto Payments Expand to U.S. Merchants

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency.

PayPal Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:PYPL, ETR:2PP) is diving deeper into the cryptocurrency space with the launch of Pay with Crypto, a groundbreaking new service that enables U.S.-based merchants to accept payments in over 100 cryptocurrencies. This move marks a major step forward in the company’s strategy to modernize digital commerce and make cross-border transactions faster and cheaper through PayPal crypto payments.

A Game-Changer for Cross-Border Payments

Rolling out in the coming weeks, Pay with Crypto supports a wide range of digital assets, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Tether (USDT), and Solana (SOL). The service charges a flat 0.99% transaction fee—substantially lower than traditional international payment methods, which can run as high as 5% or more.

Merchants using PayPal’s new crypto payment solution will receive instant conversions of the digital assets into either fiat currencies or stablecoins, providing them with real-time settlement and protection from crypto price volatility. By cutting international payment fees by up to 90%, PayPal aims to attract businesses seeking to lower costs and streamline global commerce.

Broad Integration Through Major Wallets

To ensure wide accessibility, PayPal’s service integrates with major crypto wallets, including MetaMask, Coinbase Wallet, and Binance Wallet. This broad compatibility makes PayPal crypto payments easier to adopt for merchants and consumers already operating within the crypto ecosystem.

This development aligns with a growing trend among fintech giants that are embracing decentralized finance and blockchain as key components of their future offerings. By becoming crypto-compatible, PayPal is positioning itself at the intersection of digital finance and traditional e-commerce.

Why PayPal Is Making This Move Now

The company estimates that over 650 million people worldwide currently hold cryptocurrency—a number that continues to grow. The global crypto market is valued at approximately $3 trillion, and PayPal sees enormous potential in enabling more seamless and affordable transactions using these assets.

The launch of Pay with Crypto follows the recent debut of PayPal World, a new platform integrating five leading digital wallets to simplify international money transfers. These back-to-back announcements make it clear that PayPal is going all-in on digital asset integration, and PayPal crypto payments are set to become a key pillar of the company’s global strategy.

Implications for PYPL Stock

For investors, this move may signal a turning point in PayPal’s growth narrative. After facing stiff competition from Block Inc. (NYSE:SQ), Visa Inc. (NYSE:V), and other fintech players, PayPal is reasserting itself as a pioneer in financial innovation.

Although PYPL stock has struggled in recent months, the company’s aggressive push into crypto could reignite investor interest. Analysts will be watching closely to see how quickly the new service gains traction among merchants and what kind of transaction volumes it generates.

By offering a unique value proposition—low fees, fast settlement, and broad crypto support—PayPal is attempting to carve out a niche that bridges the gap between traditional finance and blockchain technology.

The Future of PayPal Crypto Payments

With PayPal crypto payments, the company isn’t just facilitating purchases—it’s helping legitimize cryptocurrency as a mainstream payment method. If successful, this rollout could inspire a wave of adoption among both small businesses and large enterprises seeking to reduce costs and tap into global markets.

In the long term, this move could also pave the way for PayPal to introduce new services such as crypto lending, digital ID verification, and DeFi-style savings tools. For now, though, all eyes are on how well U.S. merchants respond to the company’s latest offering.

As the lines between fiat and digital currencies continue to blur, PayPal crypto payments may well be a critical part of the future of commerce—and a new growth engine for the fintech giant.

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Ethereum Bull Run Could Outshine Bitcoin Soon

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency.

As the cryptocurrency market shifts into a new phase, the spotlight is turning toward Ethereum (ETH). According to Galaxy Digital CEO Mike Novogratz, Ethereum may soon outperform Bitcoin (BTC), marking a major shift in investor sentiment. The term Ethereum bull run is no longer just hype—it’s gaining traction with institutions and analysts alike.

Ethereum Gathers Steam

In a recent CNBC interview, Novogratz explained why he believes Ethereum is poised to outpace Bitcoin over the next three to six months. A key reason is ETH’s limited float—fewer coins available to trade—as well as mounting institutional interest. If Ethereum breaks above the psychological barrier of $4,000, he argues, it could enter what traders call “price discovery,” potentially accelerating toward new highs.

Currently trading around $3,700, Ethereum still sits about 25% below its all-time high of $4,800 reached in 2021. Bitcoin, on the other hand, has already surpassed previous records this cycle, topping $123,000. But despite this lead, Novogratz sees ETH narrowing the gap rapidly.

Institutions Eye Ethereum

The Ethereum bull run is being fueled by institutional moves. Companies such as SharpLink Gaming (NASDAQ:SBET) and BitMine Immersion Technologies (OTC:BMNR) are reportedly adding ETH to their corporate treasuries. This echoes early Bitcoin strategies by firms like Tesla and MicroStrategy, and it reflects a broader shift in how Ethereum is perceived.

Moreover, optimism around Ethereum spot ETFs is adding fuel to the fire. Novogratz notes that ETFs are a major gateway for institutional money, and Ethereum is now getting the kind of attention that was once exclusively reserved for Bitcoin.

Galaxy Digital’s Strategic Pivot?

Speculation is swirling about Galaxy Digital’s latest move. The firm recently shifted Bitcoin holdings tied to a Satoshi-era wallet to various exchanges. While the transaction raised eyebrows, some observers believe it signals a potential reallocation into Ethereum.

Though Galaxy has not confirmed a large-scale ETH buy, Novogratz’s public comments suggest growing confidence in Ethereum’s trajectory. “You’re seeing institutions getting interested in Ethereum just like they did with Bitcoin,” he said. “You combine that with limited float, and it’s a powder keg.”

ETH vs BTC: Not a Price Race, But a Percentage Game

Novogratz isn’t claiming that Ethereum will surpass Bitcoin in price per coin—that remains unlikely given BTC’s smaller supply. Instead, his bet is on percentage gains. With ETH trading at a fraction of Bitcoin’s price, smaller moves yield larger returns. That’s especially compelling for investors looking for short- to mid-term growth.

Recent market data supports this view. Ethereum has overtaken Bitcoin in trading volume on several major exchanges. It has also led ETF inflows over the past few weeks, suggesting growing confidence from both retail and institutional investors.

Ethereum Bull Run: What to Watch

As Ethereum edges closer to the $4,000 mark, all eyes are on whether it can sustain momentum and spark the next leg of this Ethereum bull run. For investors, the key indicators include:

  • ETF approval developments in the U.S.

  • Institutional wallet activity

  • Trading volume vs. Bitcoin

  • Technical breakouts above $4,000

If these elements align, Ethereum could not only match Bitcoin’s growth—it might lead the crypto charge into the next market cycle.

In the words of Mike Novogratz, “This could be Ethereum’s moment.”

For long-term investors, this moment could present a unique entry point before broader institutional adoption fully materializes. As Ethereum’s ecosystem continues to mature—with scaling solutions like Layer 2 networks, enterprise integration, and increasing developer activity—its use cases extend far beyond just a store of value. Decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and smart contracts remain Ethereum’s strongest value drivers, setting it apart from Bitcoin. If the Ethereum bull run continues, it could redefine portfolio strategies for both retail and professional investors. Whether you’re a crypto veteran or new to the space, keeping Ethereum on your radar may prove to be a wise move.

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Coinbase Stock Forecast: 3 Catalysts After GENIUS Act

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency.

The recent passage of the GENIUS Act marks a pivotal moment in crypto regulation—and Coinbase stock (NASDAQ:COIN) stands to gain significantly. With a new legal framework around stablecoins now in place, institutional confidence is climbing, and investor interest in Coinbase is reaching new highs. This Coinbase stock forecast explores whether COIN is a buy, sell, or hold as the market digests these groundbreaking changes.

GENIUS Act Fuels Stablecoin Surge and Coinbase Momentum

Signed into law by President Donald Trump, the GENIUS Act creates a stablecoin framework requiring full reserve backing, real-time redemption, and strict transparency standards. Analysts call it the foundation of a new “Web3 economy”—and Coinbase is one of its primary beneficiaries.

Platforms that combine stablecoin infrastructure with decentralized finance (DeFi) integration—such as Coinbase and privately held Circle—are well positioned for growth. Coinbase’s regulatory compliance, existing user base, and stablecoin integration tools make it a central pillar in the emerging digital dollar ecosystem.

Why the Coinbase Stock Forecast Just Got Better

Aside from regulatory clarity, there are three major catalysts strengthening the bull case for Coinbase stock (NASDAQ:COIN):

1. ETF Custodian Role Validates COIN’s Core Business

Coinbase serves as custodian for the majority of crypto ETFs currently on the market, managing assets exceeding $120 billion. These funds are attracting major institutional investors, signaling a broader shift in mainstream crypto acceptance. According to Coinbase CFO Alesia Haas, corporate treasuries and even sovereign entities have begun accumulating Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC), highlighting the growing reliance on Coinbase’s infrastructure.

2. Deribit Acquisition Expands Derivatives Market Reach

Coinbase’s $2.9 billion acquisition of Deribit, the world’s leading crypto options platform with a 75% global market share, is its largest deal to date. With over $30 billion in open interest, this move gives Coinbase a dominant position in the crypto derivatives space—an area that accounts for approximately 75% of all crypto trading volume.

3. Crypto-as-a-Service Gains Institutional Traction

Coinbase now powers crypto operations for over 200 financial institutions. Its turnkey service model makes it easier for banks, fintechs, and investment firms to offer crypto products to clients. As Wall Street grows more comfortable with blockchain technology, Coinbase is increasingly becoming the go-to infrastructure partner.

Analyst Ratings: Mixed Outlook with Upside

Among 31 analysts covering Coinbase, the sentiment is split:

  • 14 rate it a “Strong Buy”

  • 1 rates it a “Moderate Buy”

  • 14 recommend “Hold”

  • 2 suggest “Strong Sell”

Despite strong catalysts, the average price target sits at $341, which is roughly 14% below the current price. This may reflect concerns about valuation or macroeconomic uncertainty, but it also suggests analysts see room for recalibration as new data rolls in.

Final Verdict: Is Coinbase Stock a Buy?

Based on the latest Coinbase stock forecast, COIN appears to be well-positioned for long-term growth. The GENIUS Act provides long-awaited clarity, institutional adoption is accelerating, and strategic acquisitions are plugging key revenue gaps.

Investors should monitor upcoming earnings, regulatory updates, and adoption metrics—but overall, Coinbase is transitioning from speculative play to infrastructure backbone of the new crypto economy. For long-term believers in digital assets, Coinbase stock (NASDAQ:COIN) remains a strong contender in any crypto-focused portfolio.

Why Institutional Investors Are Still Wary of Ethereum Treasury Companies

Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf on . Posted in Cryptocurrency.

Ethereum treasury companies are making waves as they raise capital, purchase large amounts of Ether (ETH), and bet their share prices will follow. Despite mounting excitement, major institutions remain cautious about these plays. The focus keyword—Ethereum treasury companies—captures both the trend and the uncertainty surrounding it.

SharpLink and BitMine Spark Attention

The most aggressive example so far is SharpLink Gaming (NASDAQ:SBET), a small online casino platform that has shifted gears and gone all-in on Ethereum. According to Ethereum co-founder and ConsenSys CEO Joe Lubin—who is now also SharpLink’s chairman—the company has acquired over $1.3 billion in Ether, buying “tens of millions of dollars” worth daily.

BitMine Immersion Technologies (OTC:BMNR), a Bitcoin miner turned Ethereum accumulator, is another firm seeing speculative interest. Both companies are now trading at nearly double the value of their Ether holdings.

The Ether Accumulation Trend

SharpLink and BitMine are just two of more than 60 companies currently holding Ethereum as a treasury asset, collectively controlling more than 1.8 million ETH, valued at roughly $6.2 billion. While that’s still below the holdings of Bitcoin treasury companies—157 firms holding Bitcoin as reserves—it’s growing rapidly.

Matt Hougan, Chief Investment Officer at Bitwise Asset Management, believes this accumulation is creating a market imbalance. He recently noted that since mid-May, exchange-traded products and public companies have bought 2.83 million ETH—32 times more than new supply.

“No wonder the price of [Ethereum] has soared,” he wrote in a July 22 investor note.

Why Ethereum?

So what’s drawing these companies toward Ethereum and not just Bitcoin?

Two reasons stand out: less competition and built-in utility.

“It’s less crowded,” says Matthew Sigel, Head of Digital Assets at VanEck. That means there’s still space for early movers to gain attention and potential upside before the sector matures.

More importantly, Ethereum isn’t just digital gold. It’s programmable and productive. Jeff Park, Head of Alpha Strategies at Bitwise, says Ethereum is appealing to investors because it “earns yield.” On the Wolf of All Streets podcast, Park explained:
“Bitcoin stores value. But Ethereum is productive—it earns.”

In a market increasingly focused on cash flow, that productivity matters.

Institutional Skepticism Remains

Still, large institutions aren’t jumping in just yet. According to Sigel, they’re holding back due to concerns that echo early Bitcoin treasury strategies—namely:

  • Insider-friendly structures that prioritize promoters over shareholders

  • Speculative valuations disconnected from revenue or utility

  • Volatility, which makes treasury strategies risky at best

In other words, institutional players are waiting to see whether this is true innovation or another bubble.

Market May Decide the Fate

Ethereum has climbed more than 60% in the last 30 days, trading around $3,600. As prices soar and smaller public companies continue to convert their balance sheets into ETH, retail investors may be tempted to follow.

But without a proven track record or consistent regulatory support, the verdict is still out.

Are Ethereum treasury companies truly a breakthrough in financial innovation—or just speculative wrappers for crypto exposure? That’s a decision the market—not the hype—will eventually make.

Until then, investors would be wise to approach this trend with equal parts curiosity and caution. Whether it becomes the next Bitcoin-like surge or a flash-in-the-pan moment will depend on performance, transparency, and real-world results—not just token price action.

For now, Ethereum treasury companies remain a high-risk, high-reward proposition. Their success—or failure—will likely shape how other small and mid-cap firms treat crypto as a balance sheet asset. If these experiments work, they could open the door to broader corporate adoption. If not, they’ll serve as cautionary tales in crypto history.

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