Sharp, essential news and analysis from Malaysia.
Bitcoin and cryptocurrency-linked stocks climbed sharply after US President Donald Trump called on Congress to pass the Clarity Act, which would establish regulatory jurisdiction over the digital asset sector.
The cryptocurrency industry has invested nearly $200 million in U.S. midterm elections, channelling funds through super PACs to support candidates favourable to relaxed digital asset regulation and crypto-friendly legislation.
A security vulnerability in Coinkite's Coldcard hardware wallets has enabled attackers to drain approximately US$86 million worth of Bitcoin from more than 4,500 users. The flaw compromised the seed phrases that protect cryptocurrency stored offline.
Johor police have dismantled an illegal bitcoin mining operation, arresting three individuals and confiscating 71 mining devices during raids conducted across two days. The syndicate had been stealing electricity from TNB.
Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has reached a settlement with the US Securities and Exchange Commission over a Freedom of Information Act dispute, with the regulator agreeing to pay $150,000 and overhaul its record-keeping practices.
The Financial Action Task Force has warned that organised crime groups are moving billions of dollars through cryptocurrency markets, exploiting regulatory weaknesses. Illicit actors are developing sophisticated methods including custom stablecoins designed to resist asset seizure.