WhiteboardCrypto News - Sept 28

Welcome back to this week's edition of our WhiteboardCrypto Newsletter!

Deanonymization?

Ethereum researchers warn that node operators could be deanonymized due to the unique way their servers interact with the blockchain. By analyzing patterns in network traffic, attackers may identify and link node operators to specific activities, including their IP address. This vulnerability could lead to privacy risks, especially for operators wanting to stay anonymous. Solutions like encryption and better network privacy tools are being explored to address this issue.

Learn more here.

EIGEN tokens unlock Sept 30

EigenLayer's EIGEN tokens will become transferable on September 30, marking a significant step for the project. These tokens are used to incentivize stakers who provide security to Ethereum’s decentralized infrastructure. By enabling transfers, it opens up trading and broader utility for token holders, further integrating EigenLayer into Ethereum's ecosystem. But, as with all token unlocks, this raises some concerns about a potential sell-off.

Learn more here.

Caroline Ellison sentenced

Of FTX fame, Ex-Alameda Research CEO, and SBF’s ex, Caroline Ellison has been sentenced to 2 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and an $11 billion forfeiture. The sentence is light due to her cooperation with authorities and testifying against SBF, who was sentenced to 25 years.

Learn more here.

Consensys’ case thrown out

A U.S. federal judge dismissed a lawsuit by Consensys against the SEC regarding MetaMask and Ethereum. Consensys claimed the SEC failed to respond to its request for clarification on whether using MetaMask and Ethereum could trigger securities laws. The judge ruled the case lacked merit, as the SEC wasn't required to provide the requested information. This ruling is significant as it maintains the regulatory uncertainty around decentralized applications and Ethereum's legal status.

Learn more here.

US SEC’s Gensler gets grilled

During a Senate hearing, SEC Chair Gary Gensler was grilled by U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty, who criticized Gensler for dodging direct questions about crypto regulation. The Senator sarcastically remarked, "Kudos to you for answering a different question," highlighting frustration with Gensler's evasive responses. The discussion centered around the SEC’s stance on crypto regulation and enforcement, targeting their regulation-through-enforcement, lack of clarity, and lack of leadership. They also called for stablecoin regulation by the end of the year.

Learn more here.

Visa helps tradfi meet defi

Visa is launching a new Tokenized Asset Platform (VTAP) that allows banks to issue fiat-backed tokens on Ethereum. This move will help banks digitize traditional assets like commodities and bonds, offering faster, real-time settlement through smart contracts. Visa's platform aims to boost liquidity and improve transaction transparency, helping bridge traditional finance with blockchain technology.

Learn more here.

Avalanche grant program

Avalanche has announced a $40 million grant program to support developers building on the upcoming testnet for the Avalanche9000 upgrade. The grants will help fund projects focused on decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and infrastructure. The upcoming Avalanche9000 upgrade will change its current subnet structure to a network of specialized L1s. Grants will be distributed based on community voting, with all submissions displayed on a public leaderboard for transparency.

Learn more here.

Thanks for reading and I hope you learned something!

- Theodore