Crypto Industry Faces Quantum Threat as BTC Rally Pauses at $105K

Asia Morning Briefing: Crypto Industry 'Unprepared' For Quantum Threat Says Analyst

Bitcoin Market Movements

Bitcoin BTC$106,402.39 rebounded by 0.9%, recovering from a weekend decline linked to ETF outflows and geopolitical tensions. The cryptocurrency experienced significant trading volume shifts, reflecting a growing correlation with Japanese 30-year government bond yields, as noted by macro strategist Weston Nakamura. This correlation indicates a deeper global macro shift in financial markets, suggesting Japan's increased influence over cross-asset dynamics. Bitcoin is currently testing critical support levels around $104,300.

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Quantum Threat to Crypto

Rick Maeda of Presto Research warns that the cryptocurrency sector is unprepared for the advancing threat of quantum computing. In a recent report, Maeda highlights a critical barrier: economic incentives for funding quantum-resistant technology. He states, "Crypto is underprepared. The biggest risk is just waiting too long." He emphasizes the need for proactive measures, particularly for blockchains relying on elliptic curve cryptography (ECC). The urgency for systematic preparation cannot be overstated, as waiting until the threat is real could result in dire consequences.

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Meta Shareholders and Bitcoin Proposal

Meta's shareholders overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to allocate part of its $72 billion cash reserves to Bitcoin, with only 0.08% support. The proposal, backed by Ethan Peck of Strive, aimed to hedge against inflation by adopting Bitcoin as a treasury asset. Despite Meta's past involvement with crypto projects like the Libra stablecoin, the company is currently focusing on stablecoin payments across its platforms. Meta shares saw a 3.5% increase to $670.09 following the vote.

Crypto Lobbyists and Stablecoin Regulation

Crypto lobbyists are urging U.S. senators to prioritize the GENIUS Act, which aims to regulate stablecoin issuers. Advocacy groups, including the Blockchain Association, stress the importance of maintaining the bill's focus amid potential distractions from unrelated amendments during Senate debates. The GENIUS Act has garnered bipartisan support, presenting a promising path for stablecoin regulation. Analysts estimate a 60-65% chance for the bill to become law this year, marking a significant milestone if passed.

Singapore's Crypto Regulatory Update

Singapore has mandated that crypto service providers operating locally but serving overseas customers must obtain licensing by June. This regulatory move is crucial for maintaining compliance and ensuring that firms can continue operating within the legal framework.

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Lazarus Group's Exploitation of Cryptocurrency Bridges

The Lazarus Group has been reported to exploit cryptocurrency bridges for money laundering activities. This highlights the growing concern of security vulnerabilities within cross-chain operations, necessitating enhanced cybersecurity measures.

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Coinbase Data Breach

Coinbase has faced scrutiny after reports surfaced indicating the company was aware of a data breach involving customer data at outsourcing firm TaskUs months before the public disclosure. This incident raises critical questions about data security and the responsibilities of companies in safeguarding user information.

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Ethereum Foundation Restructuring

The Ethereum Foundation has conducted layoffs within its R&D department, rebranding its core development unit as “Protocol” to sharpen its focus on scaling and enhancing user experience. This restructuring is a response to the evolving demands of the Ethereum ecosystem.

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