Crypto News Update – January 29, 2025
French Authorities Investigate Binance
French investigators have launched a judicial inquiry into Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, over allegations of money laundering related to drug trafficking and tax fraud. The investigation covers activities from 2019 to 2024 and includes complaints from users who claim to have lost funds due to misinformation and lack of necessary approvals by the platform.
Crypto Exchanges Expand in the EU
Cryptocurrency exchanges are increasingly focusing on expanding their presence in the European Union due to the enforcement of the Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation (MiCA), which provides clear regulatory guidelines. Exchanges including OKX, Crypto.com, and Bitpanda have already secured MiCA licenses in Malta and Germany, respectively. This regulatory clarity has made the EU an attractive destination for crypto firms, facilitating easier customer trust and compliance.
Heather 'Razzlekhan' Morgan to Begin Prison Sentence
Heather 'Razzlekhan' Morgan, convicted for her involvement in a $4.5 billion crypto heist, is set to begin her prison sentence on February 4 at a federal institute in Victorville, California. Morgan, known for her viral rap persona, has expressed regret for her actions but remains loyal to her husband and co-conspirator, Ilya Lichtenstein. She is also pursuing legal action against Netflix for defamation related to a documentary about her case.
UK Government Considers Selling Seized Bitcoin
The UK government is considering selling £5.2 billion worth of bitcoin seized from organized criminals to address a £22 billion deficit in public finances. The bitcoin was confiscated from Jian Wen, a former takeaway worker linked to a cryptocurrency fraud scheme, and has become the largest cryptocurrency seizure in UK history. Proceeds from the sale would be influenced by victim compensation, recovery costs, and international obligations.
Cryptocurrency Market Prices
- Bitcoin (BTC): $102,679.00 (-0.00106%)
- Ethereum (ETH): $3,143.89 (-0.01739%)
- Binance Coin (BNB): $677.76 (-0.00274%)
- Cardano (ADA): $0.9454 (-0.00878%)
- Solana (SOL): $232.83 (-0.03225%)
Please note that cryptocurrency prices are volatile and can change rapidly.
For more detailed information, refer to the provided sources.
