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Explore tags covering technology, startups, marketing, crypto, and venture capital for faster access to what interests you. - [Terms of Use & Privacy Policy](https://techwiseblog.com/terms-privacy/): Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy to learn how TechWiseBlog handles data, cookies, third-party services, and your rights as a visitor --- ## Posts - [Fitbit App Updates Device Settings Page to Mirror Pixel Watch Design](https://techwiseblog.com/fitbit-app-updates-device-settings-page-to-mirror-pixel-watch-design/): Fitbit has revamped the device settings page in its app for smartwatches and trackers running Fitbit OS, aligning the design more closely with the Pixel - [24-Year-Old Entrepreneur Builds Dumpling Business with Six-Figure Monthly Sales](https://techwiseblog.com/24-year-old-entrepreneur-builds-dumpling-business-with-six-figure-monthly-sales/): At 24, Si Yu Wei has transformed her early passion for sales into a thriving dumpling business generating six-figure monthly revenues. Her entrepreneurial - [Anker Introduces Soundcore Sleep A30 Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation](https://techwiseblog.com/anker-introduces-soundcore-sleep-a30-earbuds-with-active-noise-cancellation/): Anker has launched its latest Soundcore Sleep A30 wireless earbuds, now equipped with active noise cancellation (ANC) to enhance sleep quality by reducing - [AI Boosts Efficiency but Alone Cannot Solve Productivity Challenges](https://techwiseblog.com/ai-boosts-efficiency-but-alone-cannot-solve-productivity-challenges/): Despite concerns over AI-driven job losses, proponents argue that artificial intelligence can enhance productivity for workers and the economy. Microsoft - [Public Companies Increasing Bitcoin Holdings Face Risks If Crypto Prices Drop](https://techwiseblog.com/public-companies-increasing-bitcoin-holdings-face-risks-if-crypto-prices-drop/): A growing number of publicly traded companies, including distillers, cannabis producers, and energy storage firms, are adding Bitcoin to their balance - [Ethereum (ETH) Price Outlook for June 14 Indicates Bearish Trends](https://techwiseblog.com/ethereum-eth-price-outlook-for-june-14-indicates-bearish-trends/): Ethereum (ETH) showed a slight increase of 0.12% over the past 24 hours, according to CoinMarketCap. Despite a generally bullish weekend market, ETH faces - [Crypto Timing Model Predicts Bitcoin Rally in November After Accurate All-Time High Forecast](https://techwiseblog.com/crypto-timing-model-predicts-bitcoin-rally-in-november-after-accurate-all-time-high-forecast/): A crypto timing model by Weiss Crypto Ratings, known for accurately predicting Bitcoin's recent all-time high (ATH), now signals a possible market rally - [Analytics Platform Highlights Bitcoin Stalling Below Key Resistance, Breakout Depends on Strong Fundamentals](https://techwiseblog.com/analytics-platform-highlights-bitcoin-stalling-below-key-resistance-breakout-depends-on-strong-fundamentals/): Analytics platform Swissblock reports that Bitcoin (BTC) is struggling to surpass a major resistance level just below its all-time high.Swissblock notes - [Raoul Pal Attributes 89% of Bitcoin Rally to Global Money Supply Growth](https://techwiseblog.com/raoul-pal-attributes-89-of-bitcoin-rally-to-global-money-supply-growth/): Crypto investor and macroeconomic expert Raoul Pal has identified the main driver behind Bitcoin's price surge over the past two years. According to Pal, - [Ethereum Co-Founder Joseph Lubin Proposes Tokenizing SharpLink’s SBET Stock](https://techwiseblog.com/ethereum-co-founder-joseph-lubin-proposes-tokenizing-sharplinks-sbet-stock/): Joseph Lubin, Ethereum co-founder and SharpLink board chairman, has suggested tokenizing SharpLink Gaming’s SBET stock to create an on-chain version. This - [IBM Unveils Roadmap for Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computer by 2029, Raising Bitcoin Security Concerns](https://techwiseblog.com/ibm-unveils-roadmap-for-fault-tolerant-quantum-computer-by-2029-raising-bitcoin-security-concerns/): IBM has announced its plan to develop the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computer, named IBM Quantum Starling, expected to launch by 2029. This - [Microsoft Mistakenly Replaces Windows 11 Startup Sound with Windows Vista's Chime](https://techwiseblog.com/microsoft-mistakenly-replaces-windows-11-startup-sound-with-windows-vistas-chime/): Microsoft accidentally swapped the Windows 11 startup sound with the Windows Vista boot chime in recent test builds. Users of the Windows Insider Dev - [Legacy of Kain: Defiance May Join PS Plus Premium Soon](https://techwiseblog.com/legacy-of-kain-defiance-may-join-ps-plus-premium-soon/): Legacy of Kain: Defiance appears set for a PS Plus Premium release, allowing players to experience the game on PS5 and PS4. This follows recent remasters - [Apple iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Expected to Launch in September 2025](https://techwiseblog.com/apple-iphone-17-and-iphone-17-pro-expected-to-launch-in-september-2025/): Apple is set to launch the iPhone 17 series in fall 2025, coinciding with the release of iOS 26. While the exact launch date has not been announced, - [Switch 2 Displays Message: ‘Rumble Has Been Turned Off Due to Prolonged Use’—Here’s What It Means](https://techwiseblog.com/switch-2-displays-message-rumble-has-been-turned-off-due-to-prolonged-use-heres-what-it-means/): Some Switch 2 users have reported seeing a message indicating that HD Rumble has been turned off due to prolonged use. This alert has caused concern among - [Ethereum Whale Acquires $127 Million in ETH Amid Market Sell-Off](https://techwiseblog.com/ethereum-whale-acquires-127-million-in-eth-amid-market-sell-off/): During a period of heightened market volatility and widespread panic selling, a major Ethereum whale has purchased approximately 48,825 ETH, valued at - [Walmart, Amazon, and Other Major Companies Explore Issuing Stablecoins](https://techwiseblog.com/walmart-amazon-and-other-major-companies-explore-issuing-stablecoins/): Walmart, Amazon, and several other multinational corporations are reportedly considering issuing their own stablecoins, according to a Wall Street Journal - [Charles Hoskinson Confirms XRP and RLUSD Integration in Cardano’s DeFi Ecosystem](https://techwiseblog.com/charles-hoskinson-confirms-xrp-and-rlusd-integration-in-cardanos-defi-ecosystem/): Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson has confirmed ongoing work to integrate Ripple’s XRP and its stablecoin RLUSD into the Cardano network. Although no - [Cardano (ADA) Tops Crypto Conversations Amid DeFi Growth](https://techwiseblog.com/cardano-ada-tops-crypto-conversations-amid-defi-growth/): Over the weekend, Cardano (ADA) became the most discussed cryptocurrency, surpassing Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, and Monero in conversation volume. This surge - [Consensys Confirms LINEA Token Launch Ahead of MetaMask](https://techwiseblog.com/consensys-confirms-linea-token-launch-ahead-of-metamask/): Joseph Lubin, founder of Consensys, announced that the Ethereum layer-2 network LINEA is expected to launch a token before MetaMask. He shared this update - [Altcoins Poised to Challenge Visa and Mastercard Following $60 Billion Market Shift](https://techwiseblog.com/altcoins-poised-to-challenge-visa-and-mastercard-following-60-billion-market-shift/): Visa and Mastercard recently saw a combined $60 billion drop in market value after reports revealed that major global merchants are seeking alternatives - [Bitcoin-Backed Loans Enable Tax-Efficient Real Estate Purchases](https://techwiseblog.com/bitcoin-backed-loans-enable-tax-efficient-real-estate-purchases/): Bitcoin holders are increasingly using crypto-backed loans to buy real estate without selling their Bitcoin, avoiding capital gains taxes in the - [Bitcoin Shows Strong 656% Gain Amid Market Uncertainty, Reflecting Robust Demand](https://techwiseblog.com/bitcoin-shows-strong-656-gain-amid-market-uncertainty-reflecting-robust-demand/): Bitcoin is experiencing market volatility amid rising geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran, which have unsettled financial markets globally. - [BlackRock's IBIT Bitcoin ETF Surpasses $70 Billion Amid Rising Institutional Interest](https://techwiseblog.com/blackrocks-ibit-bitcoin-etf-surpasses-70-billion-amid-rising-institutional-interest/): BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) saw $1.1 billion in net inflows last week, pushing its assets under management past $70 billion in just 341 days. - [XRP Faces Potential Drop to $1.85 Amid Bearish Bollinger Band Signals](https://techwiseblog.com/xrp-faces-potential-drop-to-1-85-amid-bearish-bollinger-band-signals/): XRP is trading near $2.15, but technical indicators suggest a possible decline toward the lower end of its recent range. This outlook poses challenges for - [MindsEye Debuts at Number Four in UK Physical Sales Despite Criticism](https://techwiseblog.com/mindseye-debuts-at-number-four-in-uk-physical-sales-despite-criticism/): The UK physical games chart for the week ending June 14, 2025, reveals that the much-criticized action title MindsEye has debuted strongly at number four. - [XRP Burning Nears 14 Million Token Milestone](https://techwiseblog.com/xrp-burning-nears-14-million-token-milestone/): The XRP Ledger is close to reaching a key deflationary milestone, with nearly 14 million XRP tokens burned to date. According to data from XRPscan, the - [Bitcoin Nears Golden Cross Amid Rising Geopolitical and Market Risks](https://techwiseblog.com/bitcoin-nears-golden-cross-amid-rising-geopolitical-and-market-risks/): Bitcoin is attempting to regain short-term bullish momentum after fluctuating below $104,500 and then rebounding above $106,000 in the past 24 hours. - [Michael Saylor Praises Pakistan’s Leadership in Cryptocurrency Innovation](https://techwiseblog.com/michael-saylor-praises-pakistans-leadership-in-cryptocurrency-innovation/): American entrepreneur Michael Saylor has commended Pakistan's advancing efforts in cryptocurrency and digital assets, according to a press release from - [Traditional Finance’s Liquidity Challenges Pose Structural Risks for Crypto Markets](https://techwiseblog.com/traditional-finances-liquidity-challenges-pose-structural-risks-for-crypto-markets/): Despite promising decentralization, cryptocurrency remains subject to market liquidity challenges similar to traditional finance. As crypto markets grow, - [Understanding Internet Capital Markets and the Rise of Meme Coins](https://techwiseblog.com/understanding-internet-capital-markets-and-the-rise-of-meme-coins/): Internet capital markets describe a new fundraising approach where companies use digital-native financial instruments, primarily meme coins, to raise - [Polyhedra Network’s ZKJ Token Plummets 60% in One Hour Amid Liquidity Crisis](https://techwiseblog.com/polyhedra-networks-zkj-token-plummets-60-in-one-hour-amid-liquidity-crisis/): On June 15, Polyhedra Network’s ZKJ token crashed nearly 60% within an hour, erasing over $360 million in market value. During the same period, 48 Club - [XRP Surges Nearly 600% After Years of Setbacks, Experts Highlight Holder Patience](https://techwiseblog.com/xrp-surges-nearly-600-after-years-of-setbacks-experts-highlight-holder-patience/): XRP surged nearly 600% from November 2024 to January 2025, becoming the top-performing major cryptocurrency during the market upswing under US President - [Altcoins Poised to Outperform Bitcoin, Says Blockchain Analytics Firm](https://techwiseblog.com/altcoins-poised-to-outperform-bitcoin-says-blockchain-analytics-firm/): Speculation about an upcoming altcoin season has persisted within the crypto community throughout the year, despite many altcoins struggling to maintain - [Pi Coin Holds Steady, XRP Eyes $27, Web3 AI Presale Surges Past $7.8M](https://techwiseblog.com/pi-coin-holds-steady-xrp-eyes-27-web3-ai-presale-surges-past-7-8m/): Pi Coin maintains community enthusiasm despite lacking live integrations, leaving its real-world impact uncertain.XRP continues to attract institutional - [Bitcoin DeFi Expands on Sui Network with Multiple Integrations](https://techwiseblog.com/bitcoin-defi-expands-on-sui-network-with-multiple-integrations/): Bitcoin’s reputation as a secure store of value is well established, but its financial utility has been limited by network constraints. Recently, - [Bitcoin Mining Difficulty Declines Slightly After Recent Peak](https://techwiseblog.com/bitcoin-mining-difficulty-declines-slightly-after-recent-peak/): Bitcoin's mining difficulty decreased marginally on Saturday, dropping from an all-time high of 126.9 trillion recorded on May 31 to approximately 126.4 - [The Irony of Trump’s Embrace of Bitcoin’s Anti-Establishment Roots](https://techwiseblog.com/the-irony-of-trumps-embrace-of-bitcoins-anti-establishment-roots/): Bitcoin emerged from the 2008 financial crisis as a decentralized alternative to centralized power, embedding a protest against bank bailouts in its - [This Week in Crypto Games: Dogecoin Expansion and FIFA Rivals Launch](https://techwiseblog.com/this-week-in-crypto-games-dogecoin-expansion-and-fifa-rivals-launch/): The rapidly evolving crypto gaming sector saw major developments this week, including Dogecoin-themed game releases and the launch of a new blockchain - [Analyst Predicts New All-Time High for Layer-1 Altcoin HYPE, Warns of Potential 50% Drop for WIF and POPCAT](https://techwiseblog.com/analyst-predicts-new-all-time-high-for-layer-1-altcoin-hype-warns-of-potential-50-drop-for-wif-and-popcat/): A popular crypto trader believes the layer-1 decentralized exchange (DEX) altcoin Hyperliquid (HYPE) is poised for a rally to new all-time highs despite - [XRP Strengthens Support as Shiba Inu Faces Potential Collapse; Ethereum Nears Golden Cross](https://techwiseblog.com/xrp-strengthens-support-as-shiba-inu-faces-potential-collapse-ethereum-nears-golden-cross/): XRP has shown resilience by repeatedly testing and holding above its 200-day exponential moving average (EMA), a key technical support level. Over the - [Welsh IT Worker Abandons Quest to Recover €742 Million in Lost Bitcoin](https://techwiseblog.com/welsh-it-worker-abandons-quest-to-recover-e742-million-in-lost-bitcoin/): James Howells, a Welsh IT professional, has ended his 12-year effort to retrieve a hard drive containing 8,000 Bitcoins worth an estimated 742 million - [Samsung Targets Aging Population with New Health Features in Galaxy Watch Update](https://techwiseblog.com/samsung-targets-aging-population-with-new-health-features-in-galaxy-watch-update/): Samsung aims to expand its digital health presence by focusing on aging consumers and rising healthcare costs. The company plans to enhance its Galaxy - [Nintendo to Reveal Donkey Kong Bananza Details in Upcoming Direct](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-to-reveal-donkey-kong-bananza-details-in-upcoming-direct/): Nintendo has announced a Donkey Kong Bananza Direct livestream set for Wednesday, June 18th at 9AM ET / 6AM PT. The 15-minute event will provide new - [Nintendo Switch 2 Stock Updates: Availability and Key Highlights](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-switch-2-stock-updates-availability-and-key-highlights/): New Nintendo Switch 2 stock has become available in the U.K., with GAME offering more Mario Kart World bundles. However, availability is limited and - [Bitcoin Surpasses $107,000 Amid Israel-Iran Conflict, Institutional Demand Persists](https://techwiseblog.com/bitcoin-surpasses-107000-amid-israel-iran-conflict-institutional-demand-persists/): Bitcoin (BTC) price recovered above $107,000 on Monday during the European session, following a slight decline last week. However, market sentiment - [SRM Announces $100 Million Investment to Launch TRON Treasury Strategy, Names Justin Sun Advisor](https://techwiseblog.com/srm-announces-100-million-investment-to-launch-tron-treasury-strategy-names-justin-sun-advisor/): SRM Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: SRM) revealed a $100 million equity investment from a private investor to launch a TRON Token (TRX) Treasury Strategy. - [AI and Cryptocurrency Drive U.S. Electricity Demand to New Records Through 2026](https://techwiseblog.com/ai-and-cryptocurrency-drive-u-s-electricity-demand-to-new-records-through-2026/): Rising use of artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency is expected to push U.S. electricity consumption to unprecedented levels in 2025 and 2026, - [T-Mobile Offers Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus Free with Any Trade-In](https://techwiseblog.com/t-mobile-offers-samsung-galaxy-s25-plus-free-with-any-trade-in/): T-Mobile is offering the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus for free when customers trade in any eligible phone, even if it’s broken, and sign up for the Experience - ['Misc. A Tiny Tale' Delivers Enhanced Performance on Switch 2 Through Developer Insight](https://techwiseblog.com/misc-a-tiny-tale-delivers-enhanced-performance-on-switch-2-through-developer-insight/): Development of the cozy, Chibi-Robo-style adventure Misc. A Tiny Tale has been underway since 2021. The game launches on Nintendo Switch on July 22 and - [Bernstein: Stablecoins Set to Become Internet's Money Rail Following GENIUS Act Passage](https://techwiseblog.com/bernstein-stablecoins-set-to-become-internets-money-rail-following-genius-act-passage/): The U.S. Senate's GENIUS Act, a pivotal piece of stablecoin regulation, is slated for a vote this week and is expected to become law within months, - [Oakley Meta Glasses Expected to Launch This Friday](https://techwiseblog.com/oakley-meta-glasses-expected-to-launch-this-friday/): Oakley Meta glasses are set to launch this Friday, following the release of Ray-Ban Meta glasses. These smart glasses feature a camera, microphones, and - [Tesla Firmware Update Reveals Grok AI Personas and Expands Robotaxi Testing](https://techwiseblog.com/tesla-firmware-update-reveals-grok-ai-personas-and-expands-robotaxi-testing/): Tesla's latest firmware update, version 2025.20, unveils new details about Grok, its AI assistant developed alongside xAI. Research by Tesla hacker - [Nintendo Switch 2 Restock Updates: Availability and How to Buy](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-switch-2-restock-updates-availability-and-how-to-buy/): The Nintendo Switch 2 remains difficult to find following its launch, with limited restocks and high demand across major retailers. As of June 16, 2025, - [Bernstein: Stablecoins Set to Become the Internet's Money Rail Once GENIUS Act Passes](https://techwiseblog.com/bernstein-stablecoins-set-to-become-the-internets-money-rail-once-genius-act-passes/): The U.S. Senate is expected to vote on the GENIUS Act this week, a significant piece of stablecoin regulation anticipated to become law within months, - [Dogecoin Trading Volume Surpasses $1 Billion Amid 46% Surge, Signs of Rebound Emerge](https://techwiseblog.com/dogecoin-trading-volume-surpasses-1-billion-amid-46-surge-signs-of-rebound-emerge/): Dogecoin (DOGE) has exceeded $1 billion in 24-hour trading volume, with data from CoinMarketCap showing a 46% increase to $1.05 billion.Despite this surge - [Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Developer Plans Major Updates](https://techwiseblog.com/clair-obscur-expedition-33-developer-plans-major-updates/): Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has received widespread acclaim, but developer Sandfall Interactive is already planning further improvements.Since its April - [Leak Reveals Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Series and 2025 Ultra Model](https://techwiseblog.com/leak-reveals-samsung-galaxy-watch-8-series-and-2025-ultra-model/): Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch 8 series is expected to debut in July, alongside new foldable devices. Recent leaks offer clearer images and details about - [Purpose Investments to Launch Spot XRP ETF on Toronto Stock Exchange](https://techwiseblog.com/purpose-investments-to-launch-spot-xrp-etf-on-toronto-stock-exchange/): Purpose Investments will launch a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) in Canada this week, following regulatory approval. The ETF will provide investors - [Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 Delivers a Smooth and Immersive Experience](https://techwiseblog.com/cyberpunk-2077-on-switch-2-delivers-a-smooth-and-immersive-experience/): After testing Cyberpunk 2077 across various systems and handheld devices, the Switch 2 stands out as the most enjoyable platform to play the game. It - [Instagram Users Report Mass Bans, Suspect AI Automation](https://techwiseblog.com/instagram-users-report-mass-bans-suspect-ai-automation/): Instagram users have reported a surge in account bans and suspensions in recent weeks, many claiming their accounts were wrongly banned without violating - [Nintendo Resumes Direct Sales on Amazon After Year-Long Hiatus](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-resumes-direct-sales-on-amazon-after-year-long-hiatus/): After more than a year of absence, Nintendo has resumed direct sales of first-party games and accessories on Amazon. Over the weekend, Amazon began - [Get a Free Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus with T-Mobile Trade-In Offer](https://techwiseblog.com/get-a-free-samsung-galaxy-s25-plus-with-t-mobile-trade-in-offer/): T-Mobile is offering the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus for free when you trade in an eligible phone in any condition and sign up for their Experience Beyond or - [Nintendo Switch 2 Restocks: Latest Updates and Where to Buy](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-switch-2-restocks-latest-updates-and-where-to-buy/): The Nintendo Switch 2 remains in high demand, with restocks appearing briefly and selling out quickly. Despite over 3.5 million units sold, securing one - [Analyst Cautions Corporate Treasuries Against Using 'Consumptive' Cryptocurrencies Beyond Bitcoin](https://techwiseblog.com/analyst-cautions-corporate-treasuries-against-using-consumptive-cryptocurrencies-beyond-bitcoin/): A growing number of public companies are adding cryptocurrency to their treasuries, but an analyst warns against investing in alternative tokens with - [Bitcoin Surpasses $108K Amid JPMorgan Crypto Filing; XRP Gains on ETF Launch News](https://techwiseblog.com/bitcoin-surpasses-108k-amid-jpmorgan-crypto-filing-xrp-gains-on-etf-launch-news/): Cryptocurrency markets advanced Monday as traders shifted focus from geopolitical tensions to institutional developments ahead of the Federal Open Market - [Microsoft 365 Experiences Outage Affecting Outlook and Teams](https://techwiseblog.com/microsoft-365-experiences-outage-affecting-outlook-and-teams/): Hundreds of Microsoft 365 users reported issues with Outlook and Teams on Monday evening, causing widespread frustration. Users took to social media to - [Oura’s New Campaign Embraces Aging with Bold Message](https://techwiseblog.com/ouras-new-campaign-embraces-aging-with-bold-message/): Health tech company Oura has launched a brand campaign called “Give Us the Finger” that challenges typical fitness advertising stereotypes. Instead of - [AI Transforming Brand-Consumer Engagement Through Personalization](https://techwiseblog.com/ai-transforming-brand-consumer-engagement-through-personalization/): Artificial intelligence is reshaping how brands interact with consumers, moving beyond basic support to personalized, context-aware engagement. Indian - [Peloton Appoints Megan Imbres as Chief Marketing Officer Amid Strategic Shift](https://techwiseblog.com/peloton-appoints-megan-imbres-as-chief-marketing-officer-amid-strategic-shift/): Peloton Interactive has appointed Megan Imbres as its chief marketing officer, effective July 7, marking the company’s fourth CMO change in five years. - [Hollywood’s Leading Marketing Campaigns of 2025](https://techwiseblog.com/hollywoods-leading-marketing-campaigns-of-2025/): Studios, streamers, and record labels are expanding promotional partnerships to capture audience attention in a crowded market, says Disney’s chief brand - [Jadarite: Rare Mineral Could Boost Green Energy but Found Only in Serbia](https://techwiseblog.com/jadarite-rare-mineral-could-boost-green-energy-but-found-only-in-serbia/): Jadarite is a unique lithium-rich mineral discovered in 2004 in Jadar, Serbia. Its chemical composition—a sodium lithium borosilicate hydroxide—makes it - [24-Year-Old Entrepreneur Builds 6-Figure Dumpling Business Through Hard Work and Persistence](https://techwiseblog.com/24-year-old-entrepreneur-builds-6-figure-dumpling-business-through-hard-work-and-persistence/): Si Yu Wei’s entrepreneurial journey began at 16, selling snacks to classmates despite school rules. What started as a small venture to earn pocket money - [Inside the Creation of the $3,600 Seneca Keyboard by Norbauer & Co.](https://techwiseblog.com/inside-the-creation-of-the-3600-seneca-keyboard-by-norbauer-co/): Among keyboard enthusiasts, the term "endgame" refers to finding the perfect keyboard setup to stop tinkering and start using it fully. Yet, that ideal - [Nintendo Surveys Switch 2 Users on Early Experience](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-surveys-switch-2-users-on-early-experience/): Just over a week after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has begun surveying users to gather feedback on their experience with the new - [Google Urges 2 Billion Users to Change Gmail Passwords Immediately](https://techwiseblog.com/google-urges-2-billion-users-to-change-gmail-passwords-immediately/): Google is advising its 2 billion users to change their Gmail passwords due to widespread email attacks. According to Evan Kotsovinos, Google's - [Jadarite: A Unique Lithium-Rich Mineral Key to the Green Energy Shift Found Only in Serbia](https://techwiseblog.com/jadarite-a-unique-lithium-rich-mineral-key-to-the-green-energy-shift-found-only-in-serbia/): Jadarite is a rare lithium-rich mineral essential for manufacturing batteries critical to the global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. - [Minecraft's Vibrant Visuals Update Set for June 17 Release](https://techwiseblog.com/minecrafts-vibrant-visuals-update-set-for-june-17-release/): Mojang has announced that Minecraft's "Vibrant Visuals" update will launch on June 17. This update introduces enhanced visual elements including - [Switch 2 Sets New US Launch Record for Video Game Hardware Sales](https://techwiseblog.com/switch-2-sets-new-us-launch-record-for-video-game-hardware-sales/): Nintendo's Switch 2 has become the fastest-selling Nintendo hardware ever in the United States, breaking records for launch week sales.According to - [Nintendo Surveys Early Switch 2 Users on Their Experience](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-surveys-early-switch-2-users-on-their-experience/): A week after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has begun surveying users about their experience with the new console.The survey is being sent - [Apple Unveils iOS 26 with Early Beta Updates and Smart Storage Feature](https://techwiseblog.com/apple-unveils-ios-26-with-early-beta-updates-and-smart-storage-feature/): Apple announced iOS 26 on June 9, releasing the first developer beta the same day. Remarkably, a second build of this initial beta appeared just three - [Fans Track Which Switch Games Perform Better on Nintendo Switch 2](https://techwiseblog.com/fans-track-which-switch-games-perform-better-on-nintendo-switch-2/): An enthusiastic group of Nintendo Switch fans has created a comprehensive list evaluating how original Switch games run on the new Nintendo Switch 2 - [iPhone 17 Pro Launch Expected in Three Months with 12 Major Upgrades](https://techwiseblog.com/iphone-17-pro-launch-expected-in-three-months-with-12-major-upgrades/): Apple's iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are anticipated to launch in approximately three months, featuring several significant updates according to - [Jadarite: Rare Lithium Mineral Key to Green Energy Found Only in Serbia](https://techwiseblog.com/jadarite-rare-lithium-mineral-key-to-green-energy-found-only-in-serbia/): Jadarite is a rare lithium-rich mineral essential for battery production and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Discovered exclusively - [Media Buyers Scrutinize DSP Partnerships Amid Shifts in Ad Tech Landscape](https://techwiseblog.com/media-buyers-scrutinize-dsp-partnerships-amid-shifts-in-ad-tech-landscape/): Media buyers are reevaluating demand-side platform (DSP) partnerships as the ad tech ecosystem undergoes significant changes. Attendees at Digiday’s - [Mars Selects Publicis After Extensive Agency Review](https://techwiseblog.com/mars-selects-publicis-after-extensive-agency-review/): Mars has chosen Publicis as its new agency partner following a comprehensive review process. Gülen Bengi, Mars' Chief Marketing Officer, shared insights - [Top 10 Spirits Brands Excelling on Social Media in 2025](https://techwiseblog.com/top-10-spirits-brands-excelling-on-social-media-in-2025/): The social media landscape for spirits brands has evolved significantly, with many exiting X (formerly Twitter) amid controversial changes and declining - [British TV Host Criticizes Sydney Sweeney’s Bathwater Soap as 'Silly Marketing Nonsense'](https://techwiseblog.com/british-tv-host-criticizes-sydney-sweeneys-bathwater-soap-as-silly-marketing-nonsense/): British TV presenter Lorraine Kelly expressed skepticism over actress Sydney Sweeney’s marketing stunt of selling soap made with her bathwater during a - [Nintendo Switch 2 Breaks U.S. Sales Record with Over 1.1 Million Units Sold at Launch](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendo-switch-2-breaks-u-s-sales-record-with-over-1-1-million-units-sold-at-launch/): The Nintendo Switch 2 set a new U.S. gaming record, selling over 1.1 million units in its launch week ending June 7, 2025. This surpasses the previous - [Digital Foundry Reviews Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition on Switch 2](https://techwiseblog.com/digital-foundry-reviews-cyberpunk-2077-ultimate-edition-on-switch-2-5/): Digital Foundry has released its technical analysis of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition running on Nintendo's new Switch 2 console. The review evaluates - [Apple Watch Introduces Wrist Flick to Easily Dismiss Notifications](https://techwiseblog.com/apple-watch-introduces-wrist-flick-to-easily-dismiss-notifications/): Apple recently unveiled watchOS 10, highlighting several new features for the Apple Watch. Among enhancements like a smarter Smart Stack, Live - [How to Find Upcoming Crypto Tokens Using Launchpads](https://techwiseblog.com/how-to-find-upcoming-crypto-tokens-using-launchpads/): Cryptocurrency investors seeking early access to promising tokens rely on launchpads—platforms that facilitate discovery, research, and purchase of new - [Apple’s iOS 26 ‘Liquid Glass’ Design Fuels Excitement for iPhone 17 Air](https://techwiseblog.com/apples-ios-26-liquid-glass-design-fuels-excitement-for-iphone-17-air/): Apple has officially introduced iOS 26 with a major redesign called 'Liquid Glass,' a change described by Craig Federighi as a once-in-a-decade shift. - [PI Coin Falls Amid Rising Geopolitical Concerns and Market Volatility](https://techwiseblog.com/pi-coin-falls-amid-rising-geopolitical-concerns-and-market-volatility/): The cryptocurrency market has faced significant downturns following escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel. This unrest has impacted - [Navigating Paid Media Reporting and Attribution for Ecommerce](https://techwiseblog.com/navigating-paid-media-reporting-and-attribution-for-ecommerce/): Global advertising spending has surpassed $1 trillion, with digital advertising—especially search and social media—expected to account for nearly 73% of - [LastPass Faces Lawsuit Over $200,000 Ethereum Theft Following 2022 Hack](https://techwiseblog.com/lastpass-faces-lawsuit-over-200000-ethereum-theft-following-2022-hack/): An anonymous LastPass user has filed a lawsuit seeking damages after losing $200,000 in Ethereum due to a 2022 security breach. The plaintiff claims - [Nintendo’s Gradual Release of Classic Games Gains New Appreciation with Switch Online](https://techwiseblog.com/nintendos-gradual-release-of-classic-games-gains-new-appreciation-with-switch-online/): Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 launch features marquee titles like Mario Kart World, but for longtime fans, the highlight is the initial GameCube library. - [Wyndham Launches Unified Campaign for All 25 Hotel Brands](https://techwiseblog.com/wyndham-launches-unified-campaign-for-all-25-hotel-brands/): Wyndham introduced a new multi-million dollar advertising campaign on Wednesday that promotes all 25 of its hotel brands alongside its loyalty program - [Xbox's $80 Game Pricing Highlights Global Cost Differences](https://techwiseblog.com/xboxs-80-game-pricing-highlights-global-cost-differences/): Xbox's recent move to $80 USD for new game releases was spotlighted at the Xbox Games Showcase, with The Outer Worlds 2 becoming the first Xbox Game - [GameStop Increases Convertible Bond Offering to $2.25 Billion Amid Bitcoin Holdings](https://techwiseblog.com/gamestop-increases-convertible-bond-offering-to-2-25-billion-amid-bitcoin-holdings/): GameStop has raised its convertible senior notes offering to $2.25 billion from an initial $1.75 billion, the video game retailer announced in a press - [Reddit Reveals Growing Influence on Consumer Purchase Decisions](https://techwiseblog.com/reddit-reveals-growing-influence-on-consumer-purchase-decisions/): Reddit has released a report highlighting its expanding role in shaping consumer purchase behavior. Users increasingly rely on Reddit conversations to --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages TechWiseBlog is an independent digital publication dedicated to covering the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, digital marketing, venture capital, and the evolving world of cryptocurrency. Our mission is to provide meaningful context, data-backed insights, and well-researched analysis that help readers understand how innovation shapes business, culture, and the global economy. We publish articles that explore current and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, fintech, SaaS, product design, and growth strategies for early-stage and scaling startups. Each piece is crafted to bring clarity to complex ideas, combining domain expertise with accessible language. Whether discussing startup funding trends, crypto market dynamics, or marketing tactics for tech-driven products, our goal is to inform without hype and explain without oversimplification. 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Changes to This Policy We may update these terms from time to time. Continued use of the website after changes are published constitutes acceptance of the updated terms. 5. Contact For any questions regarding these terms or your data, you may contact us at: techwiseblog@gmail. com --- --- ## Posts Fitbit has revamped the device settings page in its app for smartwatches and trackers running Fitbit OS, aligning the design more closely with the Pixel Watch companion app for Wear OS. The update features a prominent device preview and current watch face at the top. Below, it displays connection status, battery level, and last sync time, with a "Sync now" button located in the upper-right corner. This replaces the older interface that relied on prominent tiles for various features. A row of cards for Watch Faces, Apps, and Tiles follows the preview, offering quick access to management screens similar to the previous layout but with a refreshed appearance inspired by the Pixel Watch app. The redesigned settings menu on devices like the Fitbit Sense 2 includes categories such as:Notifications: Calls, texts, and app alertsDevice preferences: Wrist selection and device lockGoogle: Wallet and Maps integrationFitbit reminders & alerts: Move reminders, goal celebrations, and heart rate warningsTips & support: Tutorials, device guides, and helpSystem: Software updates and device disconnectionSmart features: Amazon Alexa and on-wrist callsFitbit trackers receive a similar redesign, with the update rolling out in recent weeks. Over the past year, Fitbit has progressively updated both the Android and iOS apps, modernizing health stats layouts and charts, except for food logging, and refreshing app settings last June. Google has previewed a Material 3 Expressive redesign for the Fitbit Android app, which is expected to introduce a dark theme. --- At 24, Si Yu Wei has transformed her early passion for sales into a thriving dumpling business generating six-figure monthly revenues. Her entrepreneurial journey began at 16, selling snacks to classmates, driven by a desire to avoid financial worries. While still a student, Yu Wei juggled three full-time jobs during university, gaining valuable business experience and saving startup capital. After experimenting with various products, a chance encounter with dumplings during Malaysia’s Movement Control Order inspired her to start making and selling them. With an initial RM300 investment, she later flew to China to train in dumpling-making, spending RM25,000 on skills and equipment. Overall, her investment reached RM50,000. As a solo operator, Yu Wei works around 15 hours daily handling production, packaging, and deliveries. She faced significant challenges, including overwhelming demand during her first group buy that exceeded RM50,000 in sales over three days. Supply delays and quality issues led to some customer complaints, but support from buyers encouraged her to persevere. Additional setbacks, like a power outage destroying RM20,000 worth of stock, tested her resilience. In September 2024, Yu Wei opened a physical stall but struggled to manage both the store and production alone. After eight months, she closed the shop to focus on her online business, which has since stabilized. Her business now consistently earns around RM100,000 monthly, though growth is limited by manpower shortages. She pays herself RM5,000 monthly and reinvests the majority of profits into expansion. Reflecting on her journey, Yu Wei advises aspiring entrepreneurs not to overthink or fear failure. "Failure isn’t the scariest thing. Losing your dreams is. So don’t be afraid. Take that step. Keep going," she said. This story was exclusively reported by WeirdKaya with the consent of Si Yu Wei. --- Anker has launched its latest Soundcore Sleep A30 wireless earbuds, now equipped with active noise cancellation (ANC) to enhance sleep quality by reducing disruptive sounds. Unlike previous models that relied on passive noise blocking through a snug fit, the Sleep A30 use dual microphones inside and outside the ear to actively cancel noise. The earbuds are available for preorder via a Kickstarter campaign, with full release expected in August 2025 through Amazon and Soundcore’s online store. Priced at $229. 99, they are more expensive than last year’s $149. 99 Sleep A20 model. Early Kickstarter backers can secure a discounted price of $139. The Sleep A30 are 7 percent slimmer and designed to minimize ear protrusion, lowering pressure for side sleepers. To ensure a secure fit, the package includes multiple silicone ear tips, memory foam tips, and ear wings in various sizes. Anker claims the earbuds can reduce up to 30dB of external noise. The inclusion of ANC decreases battery life compared to the Sleep A20: up to nine hours per charge or 45 hours with the charging case when playing stored white noise or sleep sounds. Streaming music or podcasts reduces battery life to 6. 5 hours or 35 hours with the case. The charging case features "Adaptive Snore Masking technology" that detects nearby snoring and generates noise-masking audio transmitted to the earbuds to minimize disturbance. Additional features include sleep monitoring with position tracking via the Soundcore app, a private, repeatable alarm with snooze, and a Find My Earbud function to locate misplaced earbuds at night. --- Despite concerns over AI-driven job losses, proponents argue that artificial intelligence can enhance productivity for workers and the economy. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella envisions autonomous AI agents that set goals, plan, execute, and learn across systems to improve efficiency. However, history suggests efficiency alone cannot resolve productivity slowdowns. Over the past 50 years, faster computers have become ubiquitous, yet labor productivity growth in advanced economies has declined from about 2% annually in the 1990s to 0. 8% in recent years. Even China’s rapid output per worker growth has stalled. The combination of computers and the internet promised not only improved efficiency but a surge in innovation by connecting global knowledge and talent. Yet, research productivity has decreased, with scientists producing fewer breakthrough ideas per dollar compared to the 1960s. One key issue is the trade-off between quantity and quality in innovation. Studies show that researchers working on multiple projects simultaneously are less likely to produce groundbreaking work. Incremental scientific papers and patents have increased while major discoveries have become rarer. Historical innovators like Isaac Newton and Steve Jobs emphasized focused effort and saying no to distractions as essential to true innovation. Major economic progress comes from discovery, not merely speeding up existing tasks. Large language models (LLMs) tend to replicate prevailing knowledge rather than pioneering new ideas. A Nature review found that while AI assists with routine scientific work, major insights remain human achievements. Even AI successes like AlphaFold, which predicts protein structures, rely on ongoing innovation before artificial general intelligence can match human cognition across all domains. Currently, AI primarily enhances efficiency. A survey of over 7,000 knowledge workers showed heavy users of generative AI cut email-related tasks by 31%, though collaborative work time remained steady. As AI handles more routine tasks, overall workload may increase, offsetting gains. Past productivity boosts from new technologies like spreadsheets faded without accompanying breakthroughs. For AI to truly spark a productivity renaissance, it must enable exploration of entirely new frontiers rather than incremental improvements. This requires institutions to prioritize originality, support higher-risk projects, and grant greater autonomy. While AI technology advances, adapting organizational structures is crucial to unlocking its full potential. --- A growing number of publicly traded companies, including distillers, cannabis producers, and energy storage firms, are adding Bitcoin to their balance sheets. This trend, inspired by MicroStrategy's successful pivot, involves leveraging debt to acquire digital assets but carries significant risks if Bitcoin's price declines or the firms face cash flow issues. Experts warn that such firms might be forced to sell their Bitcoin holdings at a loss or become acquisition targets in distressed scenarios. Ben Werkman, CIO at Swan Bitcoin, noted that highly creditworthy companies could consolidate these firms by buying Bitcoin at discounted prices during downturns. MicroStrategy, which began buying Bitcoin in 2020 and has since shifted away from software development, now holds approximately 582,000 Bitcoin valued over $61 billion, about 2. 7% of the total available supply. Other public companies hold a much smaller share. Matt Cole, CEO of Strive Asset Management, acknowledges the risk of forced Bitcoin liquidations but currently views the potential market impact as limited. He also highlighted possible future acquisition opportunities arising from distressed Bitcoin treasury companies. According to Coinbase's David Duong, near-term forced selling is not anticipated, thanks in part to refinancing options that may help leveraged firms avoid liquidating assets. Companies adopting a Bitcoin treasury strategy often focus on growing Bitcoin per share rather than traditional financial metrics such as revenue or operating margin. Many use convertible bonds or bank loans to fund Bitcoin purchases, but borrowing can increase risks if market conditions worsen. Werkman explained that larger companies benefit from established options markets, aiding bond popularity and hedging, advantages smaller firms lack initially. Firms using bank loans may face increased pressure to sell if unable to service debt, potentially losing control over their assets. Market valuation metrics, like the multiple-to-net asset value (mNAV), often fail to fully capture differences among Bitcoin treasury firms due to varying capital structures and operating businesses. When a company's stock trades at a premium over its Bitcoin holdings, raising capital via stock issuance is straightforward. However, if that premium turns into a discount, the firm's ability to raise funds and sustain operations may weaken considerably. Some firms choose to hold Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation, swapping cash and Treasuries for digital assets to preserve purchasing power rather than replicating MicroStrategy's playbook. Ultimately, MicroStrategy's strategy leverages stock price volatility and capital markets arbitrage, allowing it to increase Bitcoin per share by issuing convertible bonds and other instruments. As more companies enter the Bitcoin treasury space, investors may distinguish between "growth" plays aiming for rapid Bitcoin accumulation and "value" plays focused on steady growth. Smaller players risk acquisition or adaptation as Bitcoin evolves as an asset class. Werkman emphasized that these firms seek to move away from the traditional financial system toward what they perceive as the future system, gaining a first-mover advantage in the process. --- Ethereum (ETH) showed a slight increase of 0. 12% over the past 24 hours, according to CoinMarketCap. Despite a generally bullish weekend market, ETH faces potential declines based on recent price movements. On the hourly chart, ETH briefly broke below the local support level at $2,522. If the daily candle closes near this level, a deeper drop toward the $2,500 zone is likely. Longer time frames also suggest a bearish trend. Should the daily candle close at or below current prices without a significant wick, ETH may test the $2,300–$2,400 range in the coming days. From a midterm perspective, Ethereum recently bounced off resistance near $2,857. A weekly close well below this level could signal renewed selling pressure, potentially pushing prices toward $2,400. At the time of writing, Ethereum is trading around $2,538. --- A crypto timing model by Weiss Crypto Ratings, known for accurately predicting Bitcoin's recent all-time high (ATH), now signals a possible market rally in November. In May, Weiss forecasted a bullish trend that preceded Bitcoin reaching a record price of $111,886. The model's latest update anticipates a 4-year cycle peak in the cryptocurrency market during the final quarter of the year, specifically in November. This 4-year market cycle, influenced by Bitcoin’s halving events, typically includes an accumulation phase before a bear market and a bullish phase thereafter. This trend has been observed since 2011, though some analysts note that growing institutional participation could affect its consistency. As of the report, Bitcoin trades near $103,091. The broader market has recently seen a correction followed by a price surge, with Bitcoin briefly climbing to $107,000 on June 9. Blockchain analytics firm Glassnode attributes this jump to a short squeeze triggered by a wave of short position liquidations, fueled by negative funding rates and increased short interest in the previous week. --- Analytics platform Swissblock reports that Bitcoin (BTC) is struggling to surpass a major resistance level just below its all-time high. Swissblock notes that Bitcoin is "stalling below $110,000," with a broad trading range forming between $100,000 and the resistance point. This consolidation phase indicates pressure on the upward trend. "Consolidation may last, but one thing's clear: No breakout without strong fundamentals. " — SwissblockCurrently, Bitcoin trades around $104,447, approximately 7% below the recent peak near $112,000. Earlier, Swissblock cautioned that failure to break out due to lack of new investor inflows could result in a double-top pattern, a bearish signal characterized by two consecutive peaks signaling strong resistance. A joint report by Swissblock and on-chain analyst Willy Woo, called Bitcoin Vector, shows declining BTC liquidity over recent days. This suggests lower trading volumes, reduced transactions, and less market activity. "Network growth remains stable, and participants are not leaving the market. Profit-taking is low, indicating limited selling pressure. " — Bitcoin VectorDespite lower liquidity, Bitcoin Vector considers a further price correction unlikely given the stable network growth and minimal selling. --- Crypto investor and macroeconomic expert Raoul Pal has identified the main driver behind Bitcoin's price surge over the past two years. According to Pal, 89% of Bitcoin's price movement correlates with the growth of the global money supply (M2). Pal shared a chart showing that as M2 increased, Bitcoin's price followed closely, particularly since BTC surpassed $40,000 in 2023. He explained that trillions of dollars printed and injected into the global economy have boosted liquidity, which largely explains Bitcoin’s rally. Pal stated that much of the news and narratives around Bitcoin are noise compared to this fundamental relationship. He also highlighted Bitcoin’s role in debasing the U. S. dollar. Bitcoin experienced volatility late last week, dropping more than 4% from above $108,000 to around $103,000 amid rising military tensions in the Middle East. It later partially recovered but faced further declines. Separately, investor Anthony Pompliano described Bitcoin as "the new bonds," suggesting that recognizing this perspective clarifies its value proposition. This view aligns with discussions about "BitBonds," a concept mentioned in a recent Forbes article proposing that U. S. Treasury bonds could be partially backed by Bitcoin. Such backing could reduce interest costs by leveraging Bitcoin’s fixed supply of 21 million coins. The article highlighted a shift in U. S. economic policy under the Trump administration, which designated Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset through an executive order. The U. S. government reportedly holds nearly 200,000 BTC confiscated from illicit activities, including those linked to the Silk Road marketplace. --- Joseph Lubin, Ethereum co-founder and SharpLink board chairman, has suggested tokenizing SharpLink Gaming’s SBET stock to create an on-chain version. This initiative aims to improve investor access, reduce fees, enable 24/7 trading, and prevent ticker manipulation. SharpLink’s stock tumbled nearly 80% following a misunderstood SEC filing related to a share resale, which Lubin clarified was procedural and tied to Ethereum treasury management. The company recently acquired 176,271 ETH, becoming the largest public Ethereum holder, and is pursuing a $1 billion shelf offering to expand its Ethereum reserves. Lubin’s dual roles at Ethereum and SharpLink position him to integrate blockchain technology with public market assets. Tokenization of SBET stock could enhance transparency, ownership verification, and compatibility with decentralized finance (DeFi) tools, addressing growing concerns over fake SBET tokens circulating in the market. While regulatory challenges remain, SharpLink’s focus on an Ethereum-based treasury and Lubin’s endorsement of tokenization underscore the potential for innovation at the intersection of fintech and blockchain. This move could set a precedent for other tech-forward public companies adopting stock tokenization. --- IBM has announced its plan to develop the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computer, named IBM Quantum Starling, expected to launch by 2029. This system aims to execute 100 million quantum operations using 200 error-corrected qubits, advancing the timeline for when quantum computing might threaten Bitcoin’s cryptographic security. Current quantum computers suffer from high error rates and cannot run complex algorithms needed to break blockchain encryption. IBM’s approach focuses on fault tolerance—detecting and correcting errors in real-time to overcome issues from noise and decoherence. Starling will utilize advanced error correction techniques, specifically Bivariate Bicycle codes, which reportedly reduce the required physical qubits by up to 90% compared to prior methods. It will feature a real-time error correction decoder implemented via field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) to immediately address errors. Rosa Di Felice, technical director at the IBM Quantum Innovation Center, highlighted that Starling’s connectivity improvements could streamline quantum error correction and facilitate breakthroughs in molecular and material science. IBM’s updated quantum computing roadmap includes:2025: Launch of 120-qubit IBM Nighthawk processor and modular fault-tolerant quantum computing architecture. 2026: Introduction of IBM Quantum Kookaburra, a modular processor combining quantum memory and logic to scale fault-tolerant systems. 2027: Scaling to 1,080 qubits by linking multiple Kookaburra modules via chip-to-chip couplers. 2028–2029: Prototype and full deployment of the fault-tolerant Starling quantum computer. While some, like Strategy co-founder Michael Saylor, downplay quantum threats to Bitcoin—arguing banks and governments face risk sooner—experts emphasize fault tolerance as essential for scalable, practical quantum computing. Professor David Bader of the New Jersey Institute of Technology stressed the importance of blockchain transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptography to prepare for future vulnerabilities. Bader noted that powerful quantum computers capable of running Shor’s algorithm, which could break current cryptographic schemes, remain years away, suggesting that while blockchains won’t be compromised imminently, ongoing vigilance is crucial. --- Microsoft accidentally swapped the Windows 11 startup sound with the Windows Vista boot chime in recent test builds. Users of the Windows Insider Dev Channel reported hearing the Vista startup sound after the release of preview build 26200. 5651. The replacement occurred when the . WAV file stored in imageres. dll was changed to the older Vista sound. Microsoft acknowledged the error and noted it in the release notes, describing it as "a delightful blast from the past" and promising a fix soon. Brandon LeBlanc from the Windows Insider team humorously commented on X (formerly Twitter) that he "went in and had some fun with the sound files," but later confirmed the issue was a bug. The cause of the mix-up remains unclear. This incident coincides with Microsoft drawing comparisons between Apple's new Liquid Glass design and Windows Vista's Aero Glass interface, which may have triggered some nostalgia among the development team. --- Legacy of Kain: Defiance appears set for a PS Plus Premium release, allowing players to experience the game on PS5 and PS4. This follows recent remasters and classic releases, making the entire Legacy of Kain series accessible on current consoles. The news originates from Taiwan, where an age rating for the PS2 title was listed for PS5 and PS4 versions. Such ratings often signal an imminent launch on PS Plus Premium. Sony recently revealed several upcoming additions to PS Plus Premium during their State of Play. These include Twisted Metal 3 and Twisted Metal 4 arriving in July, followed by the original PS1 versions of Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, expected in August. Legacy of Kain: Defiance marked the first time players could control both Kain and Raziel within the same game. Amy Hennig, involved in the remaster, explained: "Given we were revealing crucial things about our characters’ motivations and the world that shaped them, it was critical for us to make Kain and Raziel dual protagonists, and to cut back and forth between their playable chapters. " --- Apple is set to launch the iPhone 17 series in fall 2025, coinciding with the release of iOS 26. While the exact launch date has not been announced, industry patterns and current events help narrow the timeframe. Apple’s annual keynote, which usually features the new iPhone and occasionally other products, typically occurs in the first half of September, on a Tuesday or Wednesday, and avoids September 11. Potential keynote dates include:Tuesday, Sept. 2 or Wednesday, Sept. 3Tuesday, Sept. 9 or Wednesday, Sept. 10Tuesday, Sept. 16 or Wednesday, Sept. 17The first pair is unlikely due to the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin running Sept. 5–9 and Labor Day occurring on Sept. 1. The last pair seems late, although production delays could push the event to that week. The most probable dates are Tuesday, Sept. 9 or Wednesday, Sept. 10. Apple's previous iPhone 16 keynote was on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, making Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025 a strong candidate for the next announcement. Pre-orders usually open on the Friday following the keynote, likely Sept. 12, with availability starting the next Friday, Sept. 19. If the keynote shifts to the week of Sept. 17, the release would then fall on Sept. 26. Industry experts such as Alex Lee of The Independent support this timeline, noting Apple's consistent pattern of announcing new iPhones in the second week of September, followed by pre-orders and then the release the week after. --- Some Switch 2 users have reported seeing a message indicating that HD Rumble has been turned off due to prolonged use. This alert has caused concern among players who worry their Joy-Con or Pro 2 Controllers might be malfunctioning. According to user reports on Reddit and other forums, this message appears when the console's advanced HD Rumble feature overheats or places too much strain on the system, possibly affecting battery life or performance. Games like Wind Waker and Cyberpunk 2077 have reportedly triggered this shutdown during extended rumble sequences. The rumble feature temporarily disables itself as a protective measure and will reactivate once conditions normalize. Currently, there is no option to manually disable this safety function in the system settings. Players experiencing this issue, especially in titles with sustained intense rumble effects, may consider lowering rumble intensity within game settings to reduce occurrences. Nintendo has acknowledged the importance of balancing rumble performance and has been refining this feature on the Switch 2. We have contacted Nintendo for further clarification on the conditions that cause this message to appear and will update accordingly. Have you encountered the HD Rumble message on your Switch 2? Share your experience below. --- During a period of heightened market volatility and widespread panic selling, a major Ethereum whale has purchased approximately 48,825 ETH, valued at around $127 million. This significant acquisition occurred despite bearish market conditions influenced by recent Bitcoin price declines and geopolitical tensions. Data from blockchain analytics firm Lookonchain reveals that the whale executed these large purchases through exchanges including Coinbase and Wintermute. The average purchase price was about $2,605 per ETH, even as many retail investors worry prices may fall further. Prior to this move, the whale’s wallet received over $127 million in USDC stablecoins, suggesting a planned strategy rather than an impulsive buy. Lookonchain also notes the whale's historical trading success, including a prior $30 million profit from Ethereum trades, implying experienced market insight. The investor’s accumulation coincides with price dips, indicating a buy-the-dip approach and confidence in Ethereum’s recovery potential. Transaction records show rapid and substantial inflows consolidating into a single wallet, underlining the scale and intention behind these moves. Though no direct evidence of insider information exists, the timing and size of the purchases have drawn attention within the crypto community, where some speculate the whale anticipates a market rebound. Ethereum currently trades near $2,535, and the whale's activity highlights a notable contrast to general market sentiment during this downturn. --- Walmart, Amazon, and several other multinational corporations are reportedly considering issuing their own stablecoins, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing anonymous sources. These dollar-pegged digital assets would enable the companies to reduce transaction fees significantly, marking a potential shift away from traditional financial systems dominated by major banks and credit card providers. Other companies reportedly exploring stablecoins include Expedia Group and various unnamed airlines. Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies tied to assets like the U. S. dollar, metals, or other cryptocurrencies, often backed on a one-to-one basis. They have grown popular for their lower fees and faster payment processing compared to conventional methods. The companies' plans may hinge on the passage of the GENIUS Act, a proposed stablecoin regulatory framework currently progressing through Congress. This legislation aims to foster competition in the payment industry, challenging giants such as Visa and MasterCard. Sources indicate Amazon’s stablecoin interests focus on facilitating online purchases, while Walmart has actively lobbied to amend the GENIUS Act to encourage more competition within the credit card market. Both are also evaluating the option of utilizing existing stablecoins instead of launching their own. --- Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson has confirmed ongoing work to integrate Ripple’s XRP and its stablecoin RLUSD into the Cardano network. Although no launch date was provided, Hoskinson described a comprehensive "XRP package" under development. This package includes XRP’s integration into Cardano’s decentralized finance (DeFi) layer, support for Cardano’s native Lace wallet, discussions surrounding RealUSD, and a concept referred to as "glacier drops. " While the timeline remains unconfirmed, active discussions indicate significant progress. "Glacier drops" appear to describe a phased or milestone-based approach to token or feature releases, suggesting a strategic alternative to traditional airdrops. The integration with the Lace wallet aims to simplify user interaction with Ripple-based assets within Cardano’s ecosystem. Hoskinson highlighted the broader context, stating, "These are discussions that are part of the overall Bitcoin DeFi agenda. I'd love for Cardano Midnight to be the DeFi layer of the XRP ecosystem. So they can stay and continue to be XRP, but then they can get much better yields for their holders and for X Ripple itself... We're in a good position and ecosystem strong. And we should never forget the principles. "This initiative aligns with Cardano’s goal to create a more open and interconnected ecosystem. Incorporating XRP into Cardano’s DeFi space could expand opportunities in lending, borrowing, and yield generation—areas where XRP has had limited presence. While specific dates were not announced, Hoskinson’s remarks underscore Cardano’s intent to collaborate with other networks and accommodate major assets like XRP and RLUSD. This integration could attract more users and developers, especially those from the XRP community seeking robust DeFi options without abandoning their holdings. --- Over the weekend, Cardano (ADA) became the most discussed cryptocurrency, surpassing Ethereum, Bitcoin Cash, and Monero in conversation volume. This surge is linked to several ecosystem developments, community debates, and shifts in its decentralized finance (DeFi) narrative. Cardano's CEO, Charles Hoskinson, contributed to this attention by announcing a plan to swap $100 million worth of ADA for Bitcoin and stablecoins. This move has intensified interest in ADA's long-term value and its strategic role within the evolving DeFi sector. The Cardano DeFi market is expanding, supported by enhanced infrastructure and deeper liquidity. Increased activity in staking pools and the network's consistent offering of competitive staking rewards have also fueled the asset's popularity. Developers and organizations are attracted to Cardano's low transaction fees and improved scalability, making it a favored Layer-1 platform. The launch of new enterprise-grade solutions targeting NFT marketplaces and business integrations further bolsters Cardano's relevance. Growing adoption of smart contracts and ADA-based NFTs suggest an active economic ecosystem rather than a stagnant one. However, ADA faces technical pressure after falling below its 200-day exponential moving average (EMA), currently trading near $0. 62, a significant support level. A break below this could lead to further declines, though oversold conditions indicated by RSI suggest a possible short-term rebound. Other cryptocurrencies making headlines include Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, Chainlink, and Monero. Bitcoin Cash's rally is driven by privacy debates and strong fundamentals supporting Chainlink's momentum amid high trading volumes and breakout speculation. For now, Cardano stands out not due to price movements but because it leads conversations, highlighting its vibrant, dynamic, and sometimes divisive ecosystem. --- Joseph Lubin, founder of Consensys, announced that the Ethereum layer-2 network LINEA is expected to launch a token before MetaMask. He shared this update in response to token-related questions on X. Lubin emphasized that Consensys is adopting a deliberate approach, focusing on transforming products into decentralized protocols before issuing tokens — a process he refers to as "protocolization. " Token launches will follow as projects mature and grow community governance. LINEA, managed by the Linea Association, is an Ethereum scaling solution designed to enhance transaction efficiency and lower costs. According to L2Beat data, LINEA ranks among the top 10 Ethereum layer-2 networks, securing about $370 million on its platform. Although the token launch was initially planned for the end of Q1 2025, that timeline was missed, but Lubin confirmed the launch remains forthcoming. Several Consensys products may issue tokens over time, each intended to serve distinct roles within a wider Web3 ecosystem, such as governance, incentives, and interoperability across decentralized applications. Despite ongoing speculation about a MetaMask token, Lubin refrained from making commitments. He highlighted that any token associated with MetaMask would depend on its evolution into a more protocol-like framework, indicating it is not yet ready for such a development. MetaMask remains one of the most popular Ethereum wallets, with over 30 million users in 2024, serving as a gateway between users and decentralized apps. Previous warnings about fake token scams have accompanied speculation around a MetaMask token. Lubin clarified that any token tied to MetaMask would be part of a carefully planned and broader rollout strategy within Consensys' ecosystem. Disclaimer: This article follows Trust Project guidelines for unbiased and transparent reporting. Readers should verify information independently and seek professional advice before making decisions based on this content. --- Visa and Mastercard recently saw a combined $60 billion drop in market value after reports revealed that major global merchants are seeking alternatives to traditional credit card networks. Rising processing fees and outdated systems have pushed retailers to explore new payment methods. Merchants have grown frustrated with 2–3% transaction fees, delays, and chargebacks, while consumers increasingly favor faster, cheaper options like cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. Although Visa and Mastercard still dominate payments, their position is weakening as innovative crypto projects introduce more efficient solutions. Here are three altcoins gaining attention as potential disruptors in the payments space: Best Wallet Token ($BEST): Backing the Best Wallet ecosystem, $BEST offers lower transaction fees, early access to new projects, and higher staking rewards. With over $13 million raised in presales and enhanced security through Fireblocks’ MPC-CMP technology, the token supports a seamless, scam-resistant environment for presale participation. Current price is around $0. 025, with projections to reach $0. 072 by 2025. SUBBD Token ($SUBBD): This token powers an AI-driven, decentralized creator platform that eliminates intermediaries, allowing influencers to monetize directly through low-fee crypto and fiat payments. Featuring personal AI assistants and AI-enhanced content creation, $SUBBD supports real-time fan interactions and boasts over 250 million followers in its ecosystem. It is currently priced near $0. 055 and has raised $662,000. Smog Token ($SMOG): A meme coin with utility, $SMOG runs on Solana and Ethereum networks and incorporates gamification elements such as staking rewards, airdrops, and community quests. With a current price around $0. 009 and 42% APY staking rewards, it engages over 110,000 holders and incentivizes participation through gaming and social activities. The declining dominance of Visa and Mastercard highlights shifts in financial technology, where crypto projects offer faster, cheaper, and more rewarding payment solutions. Investors are advised to conduct independent research before considering these tokens. Note: This article is informational and does not constitute financial advice. --- Bitcoin holders are increasingly using crypto-backed loans to buy real estate without selling their Bitcoin, avoiding capital gains taxes in the process. Mauricio Di Bartolomeo, co-founder of Ledn, explained to Cointelegraph that early crypto adopters and high-net-worth individuals are leveraging Bitcoin-backed loans to access property financing despite not meeting traditional lending criteria. These loans allow borrowers to use Bitcoin as collateral without triggering taxable events since borrowing against assets typically does not count as a sale. Clients lock Bitcoin at about a 50% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio and receive fiat currency or stablecoins, often within an average funding time of 9. 6 hours. The funds serve as down payments or full payment for real estate. The loan terms are flexible: interest and fees accumulate over time with no mandatory monthly payments, repayments can occur anytime without penalties, and loans are renewable if the LTV stays below 60%. Borrowers may also withdraw excess collateral if Bitcoin's value rises during the loan period. Ledn reports strong adoption of these loans in Latin America, the US, and parts of Europe, emphasizing Bitcoin's borderless nature. Loan volatility is managed by requiring additional collateral if Bitcoin's price falls and the LTV rises. Should the LTV reach 80%, the lender liquidates enough Bitcoin to cover the loan, with any excess returned to the borrower. Real estate purchases remain unaffected by such liquidations. Unlike traditional lenders wary of crypto due to regulatory and credit risks, Bitcoin-backed loans require no credit checks, relying instead on a 2:1 collateral ratio and instant liquidation capabilities. According to Di Bartolomeo, Bitcoin's high liquidity and 24/7 trading make it an excellent form of collateral. Ledn has issued over $300 million in retail loans in Q1 2025 and aims to surpass $1 billion by year-end. Clients have benefited from Bitcoin’s appreciation, earning returns that greatly exceed interest costs, with over 1,000 BTC withdrawn as excess collateral in 2024. High-net-worth individuals increasingly prefer borrowing against Bitcoin to accessing liquidity for real estate while maintaining exposure to Bitcoin’s growth potential. In support of this trend, Xapo Bank launched a lending product in March 2025 allowing qualified clients to borrow up to $1 million using Bitcoin as collateral, reflecting growing confidence in crypto-backed borrowing. --- Bitcoin is experiencing market volatility amid rising geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran, which have unsettled financial markets globally. After dipping below $103,000 on Friday, the cryptocurrency has stabilized in a consolidation range between $105,000 and $106,000. Analytics firm Glassnode provided insights into Bitcoin's current bull cycle on June 14, comparing its price growth to previous cycles. Bitcoin’s market cycles, which typically last four years, involve phases of accumulation, bull markets, distribution, and bear markets. In past cycles from 2015-2018 and 2018-2022, Bitcoin's prices jumped 1,076% and 1,007%, respectively. The current cycle starting in 2022 shows a 656% increase so far. Although lower than previous gains, this performance is notable given Bitcoin’s maturation, institutional adoption, and a market valuation near $2 trillion. Glassnode highlights that as an asset matures, exponential growth often slows, similar to gold’s approximate 192% rise over the past decade. Therefore, Bitcoin’s sixfold growth since 2022 indicates sustained market demand despite its expanded market cap. At the time of writing, Bitcoin trades at $105,540, up slightly by 0. 20% over 24 hours, while daily trading volume has declined by 35. 39%, signaling reduced market participation. Additionally, analytics firm Sentora reports a 3. 31% drop in weekly Bitcoin network fees amid ongoing geopolitical concerns and market uncertainty. Exchange inflows surged by $2. 4 billion, suggesting many investors are offloading holdings as Bitcoin struggles to regain upward momentum. Since reaching a new all-time high of $111,891 on May 22, Bitcoin has seen a correction with prices dipping below $101,000 amid adverse micro-economic factors. Nonetheless, investor sentiment remains positive, with the Fear & Greed Index at 63, indicating a solid level of market greed. --- BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) saw $1. 1 billion in net inflows last week, pushing its assets under management past $70 billion in just 341 days. This rapid growth marks IBIT as one of the fastest-growing funds in the ETF industry's history. According to Bloomberg Senior ETF Analyst Eric Balchunas, the swift adoption of crypto ETFs by financial advisors and institutions signals growing confidence in the asset class. "These are bigger fish that don't bite quickly," Balchunas said, noting that such investors typically take years to engage with new ETFs due to liquidity concerns. A Bloomberg Intelligence report highlighted that investment advisors filers of 13-F reports to the SEC hold about 20% of all spot Bitcoin ETF shares, roughly $21 billion. Balchunas predicts this percentage could double within a year, with around 1,200 13-F filers currently holding IBIT shares. The increased interest coincides with a more crypto-friendly regulatory environment under the Trump administration, which has contributed to significant price gains for Bitcoin, recently trading near $105,000—up 12% year-to-date, outperforming many traditional assets. Financial advisors have shown greater interest in crypto ETFs. A January study by Bitwise and VettaFi found that nearly 20% of advisors plan to include crypto in client portfolios by 2025, double the prior year’s figure. Almost all surveyed advisors reported receiving client inquiries about cryptocurrency. Ric Edelman, founder of the Digital Assets Council of Financial Professionals, attributes this trend to advisors’ efforts to educate themselves amid a friendlier political climate. He encourages advisors to allocate 10% of cautious portfolios and up to 40% of more aggressive accounts to digital assets, shifting from the traditional 60-40 stock and bond split. Edelman also cites BlackRock's strong brand as a key factor driving IBIT’s dominance in assets under management. Institutional investors favor familiar brands when entering new asset classes to ease board and executive concerns. ETF. com Senior Analyst Sumit Roy expects institutional interest in regulated crypto ETFs to grow as they offer exposure to digital assets without the risks associated with direct ownership. Roy noted that while retail and adventurous investors have accessed crypto via trading platforms and OTC products, advisors and institutions have only recently begun adopting these funds due to enhanced regulatory protections. --- XRP is trading near $2. 15, but technical indicators suggest a possible decline toward the lower end of its recent range. This outlook poses challenges for holders anticipating a swift recovery. The price recently closed below the mid-line of the Bollinger Bands, currently at $2. 32—a key support level in recent weeks. This breach shifts the risk toward further downside. If the downward trend persists, the lower Bollinger Band near $1. 85 will be critical. XRP has not fallen below this level since April, and previous tests of this band have often led to quick rebounds, though there is no certainty of a repeat. Market conditions are calmer now compared to the heightened volatility seen during the December to February rally, which featured strong buying activity. The upper Bollinger Band stands at $2. 79, while the mid-line’s role as support is weakening. This suggests sellers currently dominate the market, or at least deter new long positions. Currently, the $2 level acts as a psychological barrier. Analysis of recent candlesticks indicates a potential retest of $1. 85 within the next one to two weekly closes. Without a decisive move back above $2. 32, XRP may experience a gradual decline toward the lower Bollinger Band, with a drop below $2 serving as a critical tipping point. The countdown to this possible move appears to be underway. --- The UK physical games chart for the week ending June 14, 2025, reveals that the much-criticized action title MindsEye has debuted strongly at number four. Despite negative reviews, UK gamers appear willing to try the game, with the PS5 version accounting for 80% of its sales. The chart continues to be led by Mario Kart World at number one, followed by EA Sports FC 25 in second and Hogwarts Legacy in third place. A notable rise comes from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which climbed from 31st to eighth. Below is the full top 10 for physical game sales in the UK:Mario Kart WorldEA Sports FC 25Hogwarts LegacyMindsEyeCyberpunk 2077 Ultimate EditionMario Kart 8 DeluxeThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KingdomClair Obscur: Expedition 33The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the WildThe Last of Us Part II RemasteredFurther sales data from other regions will provide a clearer picture of MindsEye's overall performance. --- The XRP Ledger is close to reaching a key deflationary milestone, with nearly 14 million XRP tokens burned to date. According to data from XRPscan, the total burned XRP stands at 13,985,106. Though small compared to the overall XRP supply, this milestone highlights the ledger's ongoing focus on utility and network sustainability. Unlike typical token burns driven by buybacks or community efforts, XRP burns occur automatically through transaction fees. Each transaction permanently destroys a small amount of XRP, helping prevent spam and improve network efficiency. This mechanism steadily accumulates burned tokens over time, pushing the total close to 14 million. Recent developments on the XRP Ledger include several announcements at the XRPLApex community event. Notably, USDC is now live natively on the ledger, providing developers, enterprises, and users access to the largest regulated stablecoin for B2B payments and financial applications. Additionally, Ondo Finance launched its short-term U. S. Treasuries fund, OUSG, on the XRP Ledger. This marks an important step for tokenized real-world assets, with minting and redemptions handled via Ripple's RLUSD stablecoin. At the time of reporting, XRP was trading at $2. 19 following a week of price declines. --- Bitcoin is attempting to regain short-term bullish momentum after fluctuating below $104,500 and then rebounding above $106,000 in the past 24 hours. Technical indicators suggest a potential rally as the cryptocurrency approaches a critical formation known as the golden cross. Crypto analyst Titan of Crypto shared on X that Bitcoin's daily Ichimoku chart points to an imminent golden cross—a bullish signal where the short-term average surpasses the long-term average. This crossover, boosted by a recent daily close above the Tenkan line (conversion line), signals a possible long-term trend reversal. Currently consolidating near $105,000, Bitcoin could target the key resistance around $111,600 if the golden cross confirms. However, ongoing geopolitical tensions, notably in the Middle East, may thwart this upside. Despite the bullish technical setup, caution arises from other indicators. Analyst Ali Martinez highlights $104,124 as a critical support level clustered with large investor buy-ins. A drop below this level could lead to a rapid correction toward $97,405 due to thin buying support between these prices. Adding to the uncertainty, on-chain data reveals that major Bitcoin holders—whales owning over 1,000 BTC—have been reducing their holdings since Bitcoin's recent all-time high near $111,800 in May. The whale count decreased from 2,114 to 2,094 addresses recently, signaling potential selling pressure. At the time of reporting, Bitcoin trades around $105,505 amid mixed signals from technical formations and market dynamics. --- American entrepreneur Michael Saylor has commended Pakistan's advancing efforts in cryptocurrency and digital assets, according to a press release from the office of State Minister on Blockchain and Crypto Bilal Bin Saqib. Saab, also CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council (PCC), noted that Pakistan is emerging as a key player in the global crypto economy, actively setting trends rather than following them. The PCC was launched in March to regulate and integrate blockchain technology and digital assets into Pakistan's financial system. Saylor met with Saqib and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb to discuss Bitcoin's potential role in enhancing sovereign reserves, monetary resilience, and fostering long-term digital economic transformation. The statement described Saylor as a leading advocate for Bitcoin’s institutional adoption. His company, Strategy, holds the largest corporate Bitcoin reserve. His advocacy aligns with a vision of economic sovereignty, decentralization of financial power, and investment in hard digital assets for long-term national strength. Finance Minister Aurangzeb said Pakistan aims to lead the Global South in digital asset development, setting benchmarks for innovation, regulation, and inclusive growth in the digital economy. Saab highlighted Saylor’s impact in elevating Bitcoin to a “sovereign-grade asset” and praised his success in transforming a mid-sized software firm into a $100 billion company through strategic vision and execution. He expressed confidence in Pakistan’s capacity to achieve similar growth at a national level. Saylor acknowledged Pakistan’s forward-looking stance on digital innovation and offered support for ongoing developments. He emphasized Bitcoin as a strong asset for national resilience and described the opportunity for emerging markets like Pakistan to leapfrog into the future of finance. The dialogue marks a milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to create a comprehensive digital assets policy, attract institutional interest, and position itself as a Web3 and Bitcoin-ready market. Earlier this month, the PCC agreed to establish a technical committee to draft a regulatory framework for digital and virtual assets. The Ministry of Finance stated the council will play a key role in policy development, innovation, and securing a future-oriented approach to crypto adoption in Pakistan. --- Despite promising decentralization, cryptocurrency remains subject to market liquidity challenges similar to traditional finance. As crypto markets grow, they increasingly mirror the liquidity dynamics and risks found in established financial systems. The global crypto market, valued at $2. 49 trillion in 2024, is expected to reach $5. 73 trillion by 2033, growing at nearly 10% annually. However, beneath this expansion lies a fragility tied to the illusion of liquidity. Like the foreign exchange (FX) and bond markets, crypto exhibits phantom liquidity—order books that appear deep during calm periods but quickly evaporate amid volatility. The FX market, with $7. 5 trillion in daily volume, faces similar issues, as some institutions now question the true depth of liquidity, especially during sell-offs. Post-2008 regulations shifted liquidity risk from banks to asset managers, ETFs, and algorithmic traders. Passive funds, holding more illiquid assets within liquid wrappers, have contributed to structural mismatches. ETFs often trade more heavily than their underlying bonds in volatile markets, widening spreads and pressuring market makers. This structural liquidity problem is increasingly evident in crypto. While onchain metrics and centralized exchange order books suggest healthy activity, these hide the fragile and fragmented nature of liquidity. Most tokens, particularly those outside the top 20 by market cap, face scattered liquidity across multiple exchanges, each with varying depths and inconsistent market-making support. Market manipulation tactics like spoofing, wash trading, and volume inflation further distort perceived liquidity. Projects sometimes artificially enhance market depth to attract attention, but when volatility strikes, these efforts vanish, exposing retail traders to sudden price collapses. Effective solutions require protocol-level integration that embeds crosschain bridging and routing directly into blockchain infrastructure. Some layer-1 protocols are adopting this approach to unify liquidity pools and reduce market fragmentation, facilitating smoother capital flows. Technological advancements have also improved execution speeds to as low as 10-20 milliseconds, supported by cloud providers enabling near-instant trade processing. This enhanced infrastructure supports automated trading, which now accounts for 70% to 90% of stablecoin transactions—a critical market segment. However, improved technology alone is insufficient without smart interoperability and unified liquidity routing at the protocol level. Without addressing liquidity fragmentation, rapid execution systems risk operating on unstable, divided foundations. Arthur Azizov, Founder and Investor at B2 Ventures, highlights these issues, underscoring the need for foundational liquidity solutions in crypto markets to match their growth and complexity. This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or investment advice. Views expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the positions of Cointelegraph. --- Internet capital markets describe a new fundraising approach where companies use digital-native financial instruments, primarily meme coins, to raise capital or promote their business. Unlike traditional stocks, these tokens often lack utility and serve primarily as speculative assets driven by hype. This trend has seen both startups and established firms launching meme coins that achieve rapid, sometimes massive, market capitalizations. For example, Vine Coin, launched by Vine co-founder Rus Yusupov in January 2025, reached a market cap of nearly $500 million on its first day due to nostalgia-driven trading, although its value has since declined sharply. Internet capital markets gained traction through platforms like the Solana-based launchpad Pump. fun and later Believe app, which cater specifically to these token offerings. Early adopters include AI projects and social media-related startups. Businesses pursue internet capital markets primarily for two reasons: to raise funds and to boost marketing. Some issue tokens to generate capital directly, while others use meme coins as a promotional tool to attract attention and grow their communities. For instance, JellyJelly saw 10,000 signups immediately after launching its meme coin, which reached a $248. 5 million market cap, though the tokens were not sold for funding. While some critics view many projects under this model as lacking substance, analysts suggest that speculative enthusiasm can inject capital into the market and encourage innovation. Legally, internet capital markets remain a grey area. Experts advise companies to seek legal counsel to determine whether their tokens qualify as securities, governed by regulations such as the Howey test in the US. Recent regulatory statements indicate a possible shift towards a more lenient stance on meme coins, emphasizing whether tokens are speculative community assets or function as capital raises. --- On June 15, Polyhedra Network’s ZKJ token crashed nearly 60% within an hour, erasing over $360 million in market value. During the same period, 48 Club DAO’s governance token, KOGE, fell 50%, losing more than $100 million in market capitalization. The decline stemmed from a liquidity shortage in the KOGE/USDT pool, which ran dry and left liquidity providers unable to exit. This triggered panic selling as investors rushed to swap KOGE for ZKJ. Community reports indicate the KOGE team neglected to add USDT to their liquidity pool, prompting accusations of a "rug pull from both sides. " With no USDT available in the KOGE pool, holders offloaded KOGE into the still-liquid ZKJ pool, overwhelming the ZKJ/USDT pair. This liquidity strain caused ZKJ prices to crash, significantly undermining investor confidence. Members of 48 Club DAO criticized the team for negligence and mismanagement. Social media was flooded with calls for accountability, with the phrase "rugged from both sides" trending within crypto communities. The incident eroded trust in both ecosystems, raising concerns about the viability of their liquidity management strategies. Adding to the pressure, a scheduled token unlock of 5. 3% of ZKJ, valued at $32 million, is set for later this week. Market analysts noted that with Binance Alpha’s trading volume declining, bots and whales dominate order books, increasing volatility for both tokens. ZKJ and KOGE are closely linked, frequently paired in liquidity pools and used in farming strategies. ZKJ supports zkBridge and zero-knowledge proof infrastructure, while KOGE serves as a governance token for 48 Club, a BNB Chain DeFi project. Prior coordinated farming and arbitrage activities had boosted trading volumes but also heightened vulnerability to liquidity disruptions. Disclaimer: In line with the Trust Project guidelines, this report aims to provide accurate, unbiased information. Readers should independently verify facts and consult professionals before making financial decisions. BeInCrypto's updated Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers apply. --- XRP surged nearly 600% from November 2024 to January 2025, becoming the top-performing major cryptocurrency during the market upswing under US President Donald Trump. Market analyst John Squire emphasized the significance of XRP holders' patience through years of challenges, including crashes and legal disputes. "If patience were a crypto token, XRP holders would already be billionaires," he said. The price rose from approximately $0. 11 in early November 2024 to about $0. 75 by late January 2025, supported by increased trading volumes on multiple platforms, indicating new investment inflows. XRP's history includes a meteoric rise of over 68,000% from March 2017 to January 2018, peaking at $3. 84, followed by a 97% decline by March 2020. A subsequent rebound in November 2020 was undercut by the US Securities and Exchange Commission lawsuit, resulting in a 67% drop in December 2020. Despite regulatory challenges, the number of XRP wallet holders grew from around 986,000 in January 2018 to over 4. 5 million by December 2022, reflecting sustained interest even as some US and Canadian exchanges halted XRP trading. While XRP’s recent rally stands out, broader cryptocurrency markets remain volatile. Bitcoin and Ethereum have experienced inconsistent performance amid cautious investor sentiment. Analysts warn that sharp price increases may lead to profit-taking, especially if market conditions worsen or the SEC lawsuit intensifies. Some analysts like BarriC have set ambitious price targets for XRP, aiming for $100 per token, which would place its market capitalization among the largest cryptocurrencies. Achieving such growth depends on increased adoption, resolution of legal issues, and overall market stability. --- Speculation about an upcoming altcoin season has persisted within the crypto community throughout the year, despite many altcoins struggling to maintain bullish momentum recently. A market intelligence firm now forecasts that altcoins could outperform Bitcoin in the coming months. On June 14, on-chain analytics platform Alphractal shared on X that altcoins may be on the cusp of significant movement. The prediction hinges on the Altcoin Dominance metric approaching a historically important support level. Alphractal analyzed two Altcoin Dominance metrics: one excluding stablecoins, and another excluding both stablecoins and Ethereum. The first metric has historically found strong support near 25%, a threshold that often precedes major altcoin rallies. In previous cycles, this metric dropped to about 25% before rebounding to near 35% in 2020, and fell to 24% before surging above 50% in 2021 during the last notable altseason. Currently, the metric stands at approximately 27. 91%, suggesting a potential reversal and significant altcoin activity soon. The second metric, excluding Ethereum and stablecoins, has a critical support around 18%. Falling below this level has historically correlated with substantial price gains for altcoins relative to Bitcoin. These trends indicate the market may experience increased volatility shortly. Alphractal noted that many altcoins could outperform Bitcoin regardless of whether Bitcoin’s price rises or declines. “These levels don’t guarantee the start of an Altcoin Season, but they’ve proven to be meaningful signals with a strong historical probability of leading to major market moves,” the firm stated. Ethereum remains the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap, valued at over $302 billion. At the time of writing, ETH is trading around $2,504, down 1. 6% in the past 24 hours. This analysis underscores the potential for altcoins to gain prominence in the coming months, signaling a possible shift in market dynamics beyond Bitcoin's dominance. --- Pi Coin maintains community enthusiasm despite lacking live integrations, leaving its real-world impact uncertain. XRP continues to attract institutional interest, though analysts note ongoing price pressure remains a challenge. In contrast, Web3 AI is gaining significant traction with eight AI tools designed for decentralized finance, powered by the WAI token. The presale has already raised over $7. 8 million. Currently priced at $0. 000422, WAI is set to launch at $0. 005242, representing a potential gain of 1,147%. This combination of utility, investor confidence, and projected returns positions Web3 AI as a notable opportunity for 2025. --- Bitcoin’s reputation as a secure store of value is well established, but its financial utility has been limited by network constraints. Recently, decentralized finance (DeFi) applications built around Bitcoin, known as BTCfi, are gaining traction on networks like Sui, Cardano, Aptos, and Solana, aiming to provide Bitcoin holders with expanded use cases beyond holding. Sui, a layer-1 blockchain developed by Mysten Labs, supports several Bitcoin DeFi integrations, including Wrapped Bitcoin (WBTC), Lombard Finance’s LBTC, and Stacks’ sBTC. These tools enable Bitcoin holders to engage in lending, trading, borrowing, and yield-generating strategies in a decentralized environment. WBTC, bridged from Ethereum, offers fast DeFi access on Sui, though it relies on centralized custodians. LBTC provides a Bitcoin derivative that supports yield strategies through overcollateralized minting and integration with fixed-income products, reducing dependency on cross-chain bridges. sBTC, a 1:1 Bitcoin-backed asset on the Stacks layer-2, uses a decentralized multi-signer model to issue tokens without central custodians, preserving Bitcoin’s trust-minimized principles. This allows holders to participate directly in DeFi on Sui with enhanced security and decentralization. Adeniyi Abiodun, co-founder of Mysten Labs, noted that Bitcoin-related assets now represent over 10% of total value locked on Sui, reflecting a strong demand for Bitcoin utility expansion beyond passive holding. He emphasized that Sui seeks partnerships, including with Babylon, Redstone, Lombard, Cubiest, and SatLayer, to unlock Bitcoin’s full DeFi potential. Stacks contributor Rena Shah highlighted that the Sui-Stacks integration facilitates DeFi participation for Bitcoin holders without reliance on centralized intermediaries, maintaining Bitcoin’s decentralized ethos. Other blockchains are also advancing Bitcoin DeFi. Cardano leverages its Extended UTXO model to enable BTC-based lending and staking through projects like BitcoinOS and AnetaBTC. Solana supports wrapped Bitcoin via Ethereum bridges on decentralized exchanges, although with lower liquidity relative to Ethereum assets. Sui distinguishes itself by combining custodial bridges, synthetic derivatives, and trust-minimized Bitcoin assets in a unified platform. Aptos, a related Move-language blockchain, focuses on yield-driven BTC DeFi through connections like xBTC and the B≤ Network, emphasizing lending and staking opportunities. Despite Bitcoin’s limited native smart contract support, initiatives like Ordinals and BitVM are expanding its programmability. Sui recently announced a partnership with Bitlayer to launch the first trust-minimized BitVM bridge, signaling ongoing innovation in Bitcoin DeFi. As BTCfi evolves, Sui considers it a strategic priority, aiming to provide Bitcoin holders with more active financial use cases while preserving decentralization and security. --- Bitcoin's mining difficulty decreased marginally on Saturday, dropping from an all-time high of 126. 9 trillion recorded on May 31 to approximately 126. 4 trillion, according to CryptoQuant data. Mining difficulty and network hashrate—measures of the competitiveness and total computing power securing Bitcoin—impact miners by increasing operational costs and competition. Since the April 2024 halving reduced block rewards, miners have faced tighter profit margins amid rising expenses and heightened mining difficulty. Despite these challenges, some publicly traded mining firms are expanding production and holding onto their Bitcoin reserves rather than selling to cover costs. MARA reported a 35% increase in BTC output during May, mining 950 Bitcoin amid record hashrate and volatile markets. The firm’s treasury holdings now total 49,179 BTC, making it one of the largest Bitcoin holders globally. CFO Salman Khan confirmed the company did not sell any Bitcoin in May. CleanSpark, a public miner focusing on clean energy, boosted BTC production by 9% in May, mining 694 Bitcoin. Its total reserves reached 12,502 BTC. The company also increased its hashrate by 7. 5% month-over-month to 45. 6 exahashes per second. This emerging strategy of accumulating mined Bitcoin as a treasury asset marks a shift in how miners manage finances amid growing operational pressures. --- Bitcoin emerged from the 2008 financial crisis as a decentralized alternative to centralized power, embedding a protest against bank bailouts in its genesis block. Over the years, it has grown from niche digital money into a multi-trillion-dollar asset class, inspiring a broad spectrum of users committed to personal sovereignty and open access. However, Bitcoin's foundational ethos of decentralization and anti-authoritarianism faces contradictions as former President Donald Trump increasingly positions himself as a key political supporter of the cryptocurrency. On June 14, 2025, simultaneous with Trump's birthday celebrations, protests known as “No Kings” reiterated Bitcoin’s original spirit against centralized control, contrasting sharply with Trump’s polarizing political image. While Bitcoin's protocol resists any single entity’s control, Trump’s leadership style is characterized by centralized authority and top-down decision-making. Trump’s public pivot from crypto skeptic to advocate has included launching a memecoin, promoting a U. S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, and aiming to make the U. S. a global crypto hub. Vice President JD Vance hailed the administration as a strong ally of the crypto industry at the Bitcoin 2025 Conference. Despite overlapping anti-establishment messaging, populism and decentralization differ fundamentally: populism centers on singular leadership, whereas decentralization disperses power. This alignment poses a tension within the Bitcoin community between strategic political alliances and preserving the movement’s nonpartisan, decentralized identity. Supporters like Bitcoin Magazine chairman David Bailey view cooperation with the Trump administration as beneficial for regulatory clarity and self-custody rights. Meanwhile, figures like Jason Maier express concern that close political ties threaten Bitcoin's broad, inclusive values. Bitcoin’s culture, heavily influenced by memes and viral narratives, parallels Trump’s media strategy. This synergy fuels interest in crypto projects like the $TRUMP memecoin, emphasizing cultural vibe over ideology but also raising questions about long-term principles. Ultimately, Bitcoin’s future depends on maintaining the integrity of its community beyond the underlying protocol. While the blockchain resists centralized control, the surrounding movement must guard against political co-option that could compromise its founding ideals. --- The rapidly evolving crypto gaming sector saw major developments this week, including Dogecoin-themed game releases and the launch of a new blockchain soccer title. Dogecoin Gaming GrowthPlaysOut plans to roll out about 15 Dogecoin-themed mini-games through 2025, starting with a launch in August. These hypercasual games will be accessible via the MyDoge wallet and PlaysOut’s mobile app, leveraging the DogeOS layer on Dogecoin’s blockchain. Players can earn DOGE tokens through leaderboards, quests, and competitions, while in-game items can be traded as Dogecoin NFTs, called Doginals. The titles will cover diverse genres including life simulators and puzzles, aiming to extend Dogecoin’s practical use beyond simple token holding. PlaysOut, which adapts successful WeChat games for Western markets, is also negotiating licensing agreements to introduce global intellectual property into the Dogecoin gaming ecosystem, supporting both utility and culture for the meme coin. FIFA Rivals LaunchMythical Games launched FIFA Rivals, a mobile blockchain soccer game available on iOS and Android. The company projects the game could surpass its NFL Rivals title—which attracted seven million players—due to soccer’s global fan base of approximately five billion. FIFA Rivals features a multi-year licensing agreement with Adidas, including collectible gear and sponsored athletes like Lionel Messi. Built on the Mythos blockchain, the game permits free trading of in-game assets. Mythical Games holds a FIFA contract covering multiple World Cups and plans to introduce AI sports agents, esports competitions, and new modes throughout the year. Additional UpdatesFor continuous coverage and detailed insights into web3 gaming trends, subscribe to the GG Newsletter for updates from studios, influencers, and industry partners. --- A popular crypto trader believes the layer-1 decentralized exchange (DEX) altcoin Hyperliquid (HYPE) is poised for a rally to new all-time highs despite recent market corrections. Known as Altcoin Sherpa on social media platform X, the analyst told his 248,500 followers that HYPE shows significant strength and is currently consolidating near its peak before a potential surge. "HYPE has insane strength right now, this one got bought up quickly. Wouldn’t be surprised to see a bit more chop around here but $50+ is destined, even in these crazy times," Altcoin Sherpa said. At the time of writing, HYPE trades at $40. 44. While bullish on HYPE, Altcoin Sherpa expressed a negative outlook on two Solana (SOL)-based memecoins, dogwifhat (WIF) and Popcat (POPCAT). He warned these coins could suffer significant declines if Bitcoin (BTC) fails to reach new highs. "Moment of truth for many of these soon; that could have just been a lower high formed. It’s all going to be dependent on BTC. If we see it blast through the highs, we’re going up again. If not, alts probably go another 30-50%. Can see some examples with WIF, POPCAT," he said. The trader’s charts indicate POPCAT could drop as low as $0. 22 from its current price of $0. 31. WIF could fall to approximately $0. 60, down from around $0. 839. This analysis highlights the ongoing sensitivity of altcoins to Bitcoin's price movements and underscores varied prospects within the cryptocurrency market. --- XRP has shown resilience by repeatedly testing and holding above its 200-day exponential moving average (EMA), a key technical support level. Over the past few sessions, XRP tested the 200 EMA near $2. 09-$2. 10 three times, each followed by strong recoveries. This repeated interaction suggests a solid base forming amid volatile market conditions. Currently, XRP remains range-bound between its 200 EMA support and 50 EMA resistance. With the relative strength index (RSI) around mid-40s, momentum is neutral, leaving room for an upward move without reaching overbought levels. If XRP can convert its 50 and 100 EMAs (around $2. 25-$2. 30) into support, it may retest the $2. 60-$2. 70 range soon. These tests strengthen XRP's structural integrity and hint at a potential stronger recovery, provided market conditions remain stable. Shiba Inu (SHIB) is facing a steep decline, risking a psychological setback known as "adding a zero," where prices drop below $0. 00001000. Trading near $0. 00001195 and beneath key EMAs (50, 100, 200), SHIB has struggled to regain momentum. The critical support level at $0. 00001231 has been broken, signaling diminished investor confidence. Volume has steadily declined, reflecting waning interest even at discounted prices. The RSI is near oversold but lacks confirmation for a bullish reversal. Without significant buying interest or catalysts, SHIB's downside risk remains high, potentially turning it into a cautionary tale rather than a success story in the current bear market. Ethereum (ETH) is approaching a significant technical event: the golden cross, which occurs when the 50-day moving average crosses above the 200-day moving average. Trading around $2,521, ETH has demonstrated resilience, maintaining levels above its 100 EMA after recovering within an ascending channel. Trading volume remains steady, and the RSI just below 50 suggests neutral momentum with potential for buildup. A confirmed golden cross, supported by rising volume on positive days, RSI above 50, and closes above $2,600, could signal a medium- to long-term bullish trend. If sustained, ETH might target $3,000 within the next month. --- James Howells, a Welsh IT professional, has ended his 12-year effort to retrieve a hard drive containing 8,000 Bitcoins worth an estimated 742 million euros. The hard drive was accidentally discarded in a landfill in Newport, South Wales, in 2013. Howells acquired the Bitcoins early, when their value was negligible, and stored them on a hard drive. Years later, unaware of its worth, he accidentally threw the drive away. As Bitcoin's value surged, the lost digital fortune grew to hundreds of millions. Determined to recover the hard drive, Howells proposed excavating a 2,000-square-meter area of the landfill using drones, robots, and specialized teams. However, local authorities denied permission due to environmental and health risks associated with disturbing the landfill. Under UK law, waste in landfills becomes property of the site, and disturbing it risks releasing toxins. After numerous refusals, a British judge ruled in 2024 that Howells had no realistic chance of retrieving the device, citing environmental dangers and elapsed legal time limits. Howells expressed disappointment with the legal system, emphasizing that his effort was about principle as well as monetary value. Despite the setback, the judge noted that even if found, the hard drive's data might not be recoverable due to prolonged exposure. Ultimately, Howells has accepted the loss of the invaluable digital asset buried beneath tons of waste, ending a remarkable story of early cryptocurrency adoption and its unforeseen consequences. --- Samsung aims to expand its digital health presence by focusing on aging consumers and rising healthcare costs. The company plans to enhance its Galaxy Watch with new health features designed to support users as they age, according to Hon Pak, vice president of Samsung's digital health team. "Increasing chronic diseases and higher care costs are shifting healthcare to the home," Pak said. Samsung sees this trend as an opportunity to grow in the digital health market and compete with Apple, whose Apple Watch dominates the smartwatch sector with about 20% market share compared to Samsung's 6%, per IDC data. Samsung's upcoming smartwatch software update, launching in beta this month for the Galaxy Watch 5 and newer devices, will introduce features like antioxidant level measurement. This operates by emitting LED lights on the skin to estimate beta carotene levels, an antioxidant found in vegetables like carrots and spinach. The feature has undergone clinical trials to validate its accuracy. Additional updates include personalized sleep recommendations and a "running coach" that creates customized training plans. Samsung is also developing an AI-powered health chatbot, though details remain undisclosed. Pak highlights Samsung's advantage in integrating health technology into the home ecosystem, building on its existing appliances and entertainment products. He envisions future innovations, such as AI-enabled smart glasses that can monitor eating habits or detect allergens by analyzing meals visually. Despite these advancements, Samsung's smartwatches are not compatible with iPhones—limiting their reach given Apple's significant market share. Pak noted ongoing but inconclusive discussions about potential collaboration with Apple in the future. Samsung’s strategy marks a shift towards preventative healthcare, aiming to offer users insights on nutrition, sleep, and exercise to maintain wellness before chronic conditions arise. This positions Samsung to better compete in a market where wearable tech serves as both fitness companion and health monitor. --- Nintendo has announced a Donkey Kong Bananza Direct livestream set for Wednesday, June 18th at 9AM ET / 6AM PT. The 15-minute event will provide new information about the upcoming Switch 2 game. Donkey Kong Bananza was first revealed on April 2nd and is scheduled to launch on July 17th for the Switch 2. The action-adventure title features a redesigned Donkey Kong battling through destructible environments to recover stolen banana-shaped diamonds from the villainous VoidCo group. Players will be able to break walls, dig tunnels, and explore underground areas. Following the pattern of Nintendo’s recent Direct for Mario Kart World, the livestream is expected to showcase deeper gameplay insights and highlight key features, possibly including the new character Odd Rock. The Direct will be streamed on YouTube. Donkey Kong Bananza is priced at $69. 99 and is available for preorder now. --- New Nintendo Switch 2 stock has become available in the U. K. , with GAME offering more Mario Kart World bundles. However, availability is limited and moving quickly. Amazon U. K. currently has both the standalone Switch 2 console and the Mario Kart bundle in stock at retail price, with free Prime shipping available. Stock levels fluctuate, but more units seem to have become available recently. In the U. S. , Amazon has just launched listing pages for the Switch 2 and its launch games, including Mario Kart World and Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Switch 2 Edition. Although the Switch 2 Mario Kart bundle is marked unavailable, this suggests Amazon will soon join restocking efforts. Gamers considering accessories may want to look at the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller. It offers improved ergonomics, responsive buttons, and a 40-hour battery life, making it a strong choice for docked mode play. While some features like Hall Effect sensors and analog triggers could be added, it remains a recommended upgrade over the standard Joy-Cons. Availability varies across retailers. Additionally, Nintendo will host a Donkey Kong Bananza Direct livestream on June 18. The game, considered a major Switch 2 title, is available for pre-order with a planned release on July 17. It promises large destructible environments and new gameplay, making it a highlight for Switch 2 owners. --- Bitcoin (BTC) price recovered above $107,000 on Monday during the European session, following a slight decline last week. However, market sentiment remains cautious as the Israel-Iran conflict enters its fourth day with ongoing missile and drone strikes. Despite geopolitical tensions, institutional interest in Bitcoin remains strong. Japanese investment firm Metaplanet added 1,112 BTC on Monday, raising its total holdings to 10,000 BTC. Additionally, US spot Bitcoin ETFs reported inflows of $1. 37 billion last week, a sharp increase from the previous week's outflows. The Kobeissi Letter noted contrasting signals between global markets and geopolitical events. While the conflict escalated, equities markets turned positive and oil prices rose modestly, with gold declining. The report suggests that if a prolonged conflict were expected, oil prices would have surged above $100 per barrel, indicating market optimism for a possible peace deal. Still, analysts caution that any further escalation could prompt risk-off sentiment, negatively impacting risky assets like Bitcoin. Technically, Bitcoin faces resistance at a Fair Value Gap (FVG) near $108,064, established after a sharp drop from $110,274 to $105,671 last week. BTC is currently testing this resistance level. A rejection at this point could lead to a retest of support around $102,943, near the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), and potentially $100,000. Indicators show mixed signals: the Relative Strength Index (RSI) hovers near neutral, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) shows a recent bearish crossover. If Bitcoin breaks above the $108,064 resistance and closes above this FVG zone, it may target a move toward its May 22 all-time high near $111,980. Bitcoin: Largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, designed as a decentralized digital currency without third-party intermediaries. Altcoins: Cryptocurrencies other than Bitcoin; some consider Ethereum separately due to different protocol development paths. Litecoin is often cited as the first altcoin. Stablecoins: Cryptocurrencies pegged to assets like the US Dollar, designed to maintain price stability and provide liquidity on and off crypto markets. Bitcoin dominance: The ratio of Bitcoin's market capitalization to the total crypto market, indicating investor preference for Bitcoin relative to altcoins. Correction: The report cited is from The Kobeissi Letter, not Kobessi. --- SRM Entertainment, Inc. (Nasdaq: SRM) revealed a $100 million equity investment from a private investor to launch a TRON Token (TRX) Treasury Strategy. The company also appointed Justin Sun, founder of the TRON blockchain, as an advisor. Under the Securities Purchase Agreement, SRM will issue 100,000 shares of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock convertible into 200 million common shares at $0. 50 each, plus 220 million warrants exercisable at the same price. The company plans to rebrand as Tron Inc. Dominari Securities LLC serves as the exclusive placement agent. The investment could reach $210 million if all warrants are exercised, enabling SRM to build a significant TRON Treasury. The strategy includes plans to introduce a dividend policy after establishing a TRX staking program. CEO Rich Miller said the move aligns with the company's vision to leverage blockchain and digital innovation for long-term shareholder value. “Stablecoins and blockchain are revolutionizing global payments, enabling faster, cheaper, and more transparent transactions. With over 310 million international user accounts and daily transactions exceeding $20 billion year-to-date, TRON aims to be the preferred protocol for on-chain settlement worldwide,” said Justin Sun. TRON, founded in 2017, is a decentralized blockchain supporting smart contracts and decentralized apps. It offers faster transactions and lower fees compared to Bitcoin and Ethereum, hosting nearly $78. 7 billion in US dollar stablecoins as of June 15, 2025. SRM specializes in designing and manufacturing licensed merchandise for major theme parks and entertainment venues globally. Note: The securities involved in this private placement are unregistered and offered only to accredited investors. They cannot be sold in the U. S. without SEC registration or exemption. --- Rising use of artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency is expected to push U. S. electricity consumption to unprecedented levels in 2025 and 2026, according to the Energy Information Administration's (EIA) latest Short-Term Energy Outlook. The EIA projects power demand to reach 4,193 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2025 and 4,283 billion kWh in 2026, up from a record 4,097 billion kWh in 2024. Data centers will lead the increase in electricity use, while residential and commercial sectors will also consume more energy for heating and transportation. The energy mix is expected to shift slightly. Natural gas will see its share of power generation decrease from 42% in 2024 to 40% in 2025 and 2026. Coal will remain steady at 16% in 2025 before dropping to 15% in 2026. Renewables are projected to grow from 23% in 2024 to 27% by 2026, while nuclear power's share will hold around 18-19% during this period. Phil Flynn, senior market analyst at Price Futures Group, emphasized the need for a comprehensive energy strategy to meet rising demand beyond 2026. He praised the Trump administration's efforts to boost coal production, fast-track advanced nuclear technologies, and classify AI data centers as critical infrastructure. Flynn also criticized the previous four years under President Joe Biden for focusing largely on climate change without adequately addressing economic and national security impacts related to energy supply. Regarding future energy sources, Flynn noted no single solution exists. He pointed to modular nuclear plants and natural gas as key contributors depending on regional needs and goals. As electricity demand grows fueled by AI and crypto sectors, the U. S. faces challenges in balancing supply, infrastructure, and policy to ensure reliable power delivery. --- T-Mobile is offering the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus for free when customers trade in any eligible phone, even if it’s broken, and sign up for the Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plans. The $1,000 credit for the phone is applied over a 24-month billing cycle, requiring customers to commit to a two-year contract. Unlike many carrier offers that demand a working trade-in device, T-Mobile accepts phones in any condition for this promotion. The Galaxy S25 Plus features a 6. 7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 3,120 x 1,440 pixels, providing vivid and sharp visuals. Positioned between Samsung’s S25 and S25 Ultra models, it offers strong performance, especially in its camera capabilities. ZDNET’s phone expert Kerry Wan favors the S25 Plus for its versatile triple-camera system, which includes a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom, noting that its computational photography rivals the Ultra model. To take advantage of the deal, interested customers need to contact T-Mobile directly, as the contact number may vary by region. Eligible device trade-in in any condition required. Must be a new or existing customer on Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plans. $1,000 credit spread over 24 months. For full details and terms, visit T-Mobile’s official website. --- Development of the cozy, Chibi-Robo-style adventure Misc. A Tiny Tale has been underway since 2021. The game launches on Nintendo Switch on July 22 and will naturally support Switch 2 via backwards compatibility, offering improved resolution, frame rates, and responsiveness. These performance gains stem from a strategic decision by Tinyware Games, the developer, which anticipated the capabilities of the Switch 2 before its official reveal. Tinyware founder and lead developer Michael Pearce explained that the team predicted the new console would run backward compatible Switch titles with better and more stable resolution and frame rates, especially if the original game didn’t restrict rendering. To leverage this, they designed the Switch version's resolution to be dynamic, allowing it to scale up on more powerful hardware. They also removed frame rate caps, enabling the game to reach up to 60 FPS—beyond what the original Switch could handle. Without early access to a Switch 2 dev kit, the team waited until they could test on actual hardware. The results were substantial: handheld mode performance improved from around 480p at 30 FPS on the original Switch to 1080p at 60 FPS on the Switch 2. Additional enhancements included faster load times, nearly eliminated texture pop-in, more responsive controls, and an overall smoother gameplay experience. Pearce praised the Switch 2's handling of the game, stating it "runs the game like a dream. " He also emphasized pride in the game's solid performance on the original Switch, while acknowledging the "really special" improvements on the newer console. Misc. A Tiny Tale launches on July 22 for Nintendo Switch and will benefit from enhanced backward compatibility on Switch 2. --- The U. S. Senate's GENIUS Act, a pivotal piece of stablecoin regulation, is slated for a vote this week and is expected to become law within months, according to a Monday research report from Wall Street firm Bernstein. Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies pegged to assets like the U. S. dollar or gold. They provide a key payment infrastructure in crypto markets and facilitate international money transfers. Bernstein predicts that once the GENIUS Act is enacted, stablecoins will transform from serving as a crypto-specific money rail to becoming the money rail of the broader internet. The full name of the legislation is the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U. S. Stablecoins Act. It aims to restore stablecoin innovation to the U. S. , prioritizing regulated American issuers. The act mandates federal oversight for stablecoins with market capitalizations above $10 billion, while allowing state-level regulation if aligned with federal standards. It classifies stablecoins as digital cash, aiming to promote their mainstream use in payments beyond their current role as settlement currency for digital assets. Bernstein notes the act restricts non-financial public companies from issuing stablecoins, countering recent reports that major retailers like Amazon and Walmart were exploring direct stablecoin issuance. Instead, e-commerce and tech platforms seeking to adopt stablecoins will likely need to partner with regulated U. S. issuers. For further context, Deutsche Bank anticipates stablecoins will go mainstream by 2025 following regulatory developments in the U. S. --- Oakley Meta glasses are set to launch this Friday, following the release of Ray-Ban Meta glasses. These smart glasses feature a camera, microphones, and speakers, but do not include a display. The glasses support multiple functions, including capturing photos and videos, playing music, podcasts, and audiobooks, making and receiving calls, and sharing a first-person view on WhatsApp, Messenger, or Instagram video calls. They also offer speech translation, QR code scanning, and access to Meta AI, a large language model assistant that can analyze objects in view through the camera. Additionally, some phone notifications can be read aloud. Ray-Ban Meta glasses come in three styles: Wayfarer, Headliner, and Skyler. Each style is available with four lens types—Clear, Sun, Polarized, and Transitions—and offers various frame and lens color options. To maintain privacy, a white LED on the front pulses whenever the camera is active, signaling to those nearby. --- Tesla's latest firmware update, version 2025. 20, unveils new details about Grok, its AI assistant developed alongside xAI. Research by Tesla hacker @greentheonly reveals the introduction of multiple Grok personalities, including a new Language Tutor designed to help users learn languages. The update also adds icons for these AI personas, indicating Tesla is nearing Grok's official launch. While Tesla may initially enable the feature for select testers, Grok is expected to become one of the most significant software updates for their vehicles. Grok currently requires AMD-based vehicle software, suggesting that older, Intel-based Tesla models may not support it initially. This is similar to Tesla's past rollout of voice assistants in China. Subscription requirements for Grok remain unclear. Additionally, update 2025. 20. 3 introduces an energy-saving navigation feature that uses Tesla's data to advise drivers on optimal speeds to conserve battery power. For example, the system might suggest slowing down slightly to increase range by a certain percentage. This tool could support future autonomous route planning for Tesla’s Robotaxi and Unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) services. Separately, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced changes to accelerate approvals for vehicles without human controls. Previously, obtaining exemptions for such vehicles could take years. The agency now aims to reduce this to months, facilitating faster deployment of purpose-built autonomous vehicles like Tesla’s Cybercab Robotaxi. This streamlined regulatory process provides Tesla greater certainty in manufacturing and deploying the Cybercab, which is expected to enter production by late 2026. The NHTSA will release detailed guidelines soon. In Texas, Tesla has registered its Robotaxi fleet on the Department of Transportation’s Automated Vehicle Deployment website, marking the first publicly trackable Tesla ride-share vehicle without a safety driver. Currently, one Model Y operates in the Austin Metro area under testing status. This official registration signifies a major milestone by shifting liability to Tesla for an unsupervised FSD vehicle on public roads. The testing phase enables Tesla to collect data in controlled conditions, avoiding complex driving scenarios as the system’s safety is validated. While Tesla’s Robotaxi service is not yet publicly available, this step reflects regulatory progress and growing confidence in Tesla’s autonomous technology. The tracked fleet is expected to expand as Tesla continues its rollout. --- The Nintendo Switch 2 remains difficult to find following its launch, with limited restocks and high demand across major retailers. As of June 16, 2025, the console is mostly sold out in the U. S. , except through some third-party sellers on Walmart. BJ's briefly restocked the Switch 2, but the units quickly sold out. Amazon has taken steps to remove scalper listings that priced the Mario Kart World bundle as high as $879, reducing opportunities for overpriced resales. While this won't halt scalpers entirely, it may limit their market reach. In the U. K. , availability is better. Amazon U. K. currently has the standalone Switch 2 and the Mario Kart World bundle in stock, though quantities are dwindling. GAME also has limited stock of the Mario Kart bundle, but availability is running low. Meanwhile, Nintendo announced a Donkey Kong Bananza Direct livestream for June 18, highlighting one of the Switch 2’s upcoming key titles. Donkey Kong Bananza is available for pre-order, with a launch date set for July 17. For those considering accessories, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is highly recommended, especially for docked play. It offers responsive controls, a comfortable design, and a 40-hour battery life. However, some retailers are already experiencing shortages of the Pro Controller. Amazon U. S. has recently launched listing pages for the Switch 2 console and its launch games, including Mario Kart World and Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Switch 2 Edition, though the console listings are currently marked unavailable. For those seeking the Switch 2 at retail price, monitoring restock updates is essential, as supplies fluctuate rapidly. BJ’s Wholesale Club - Brief restock, now sold out Amazon U. K. - Currently has stock of console and bundles GAME U. K. - Limited bundle stock available Amazon U. S. - Listings live but consoles unavailable Walmart - Only third-party sellers currently Stay tuned for ongoing restock news to secure a Nintendo Switch 2 at retail price. --- The U. S. Senate is expected to vote on the GENIUS Act this week, a significant piece of stablecoin regulation anticipated to become law within months, according to a research report from Wall Street broker Bernstein. Stablecoins are cryptocurrencies pegged to assets such as the U. S. dollar or gold. They are integral to the cryptocurrency ecosystem, serving as a payment infrastructure and facilitating international money transfers. Bernstein forecasts that after the GENIUS Act passes, stablecoins will transform from being the financial backbone of crypto markets to becoming the primary money rail for the entire internet. The full title of the legislation is the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U. S. Stablecoins Act. It aims to revive stablecoin innovation within the U. S. , providing an advantage to regulated domestic issuers. The act requires federal oversight of stablecoins with market capitalizations exceeding $10 billion. States may also regulate stablecoins if their rules align with federal guidelines. Stablecoins are classified as digital cash to encourage broader adoption for payments beyond crypto asset settlements. The bill restricts non-financial public companies from becoming stablecoin issuers, a move highlighted by Bernstein following reports of Amazon and Walmart exploring stablecoin use. Consequently, e-commerce and technology firms seeking to utilize these cryptocurrencies will likely need to partner with regulated U. S. issuers rather than creating proprietary stablecoins. --- Dogecoin (DOGE) has exceeded $1 billion in 24-hour trading volume, with data from CoinMarketCap showing a 46% increase to $1. 05 billion. Despite this surge in volume, DOGE’s price rose modestly by 1. 68% over the same period, trading at $0. 1782, indicating potential renewed buying interest. After a five-day decline from a June 11 high of $0. 206, Dogecoin found support around $0. 17 on June 13 and showed a slight rebound during Monday’s session. Crypto analyst Ali noted on Twitter that Dogecoin is poised for a rebound, citing multiple buy signals on the 12-hour TD Sequential indicator. Ali also emphasized the importance of maintaining support above $0. 168 to avoid a possible 30% price drop. Analysts are focusing on the $0. 20 to $0. 25 resistance range, aligned with the daily 50 and 200 simple moving averages, which has recently capped gains. A decisive break above this zone could trigger bullish momentum, potentially pushing DOGE toward $0. 43 to $0. 49. On the downside, dropping below $0. 17 could lead to short-term selling pressure, with the next support at $0. 16. If that level fails, DOGE might decline further to $0. 14, where buying interest is expected to increase. The next significant move will likely depend on a breakout above $0. 26 or a drop below $0. 14. Breaking below $0. 14 may push Dogecoin down to $0. 10, while surpassing $0. 26 could drive the price up to $0. 38. --- Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has received widespread acclaim, but developer Sandfall Interactive is already planning further improvements. Since its April launch, the RPG has exceeded expectations, prompting the studio to reevaluate post-release support. Sandfall has released several significant updates and is now "actively assessing" additional enhancements. According to the developer, they are "exploring a wide range of future improvements," including accessibility features, new content, and various smaller updates. The focus on accessibility follows recent adjustments to the easier 'Story Mode,' which made it even more approachable. These accessibility goals likely include enhanced visual aids in combat and other options to widen the game's appeal without altering core mechanics. Meanwhile, new content remains a key area of interest. Although DLC has been hinted at before, no official announcements have been made. --- Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Watch 8 series is expected to debut in July, alongside new foldable devices. Recent leaks offer clearer images and details about the new smartwatch lineup, which appears to include three distinct models. Renowned leaker Evan Blass shared higher-resolution images of the Galaxy Watch 8, Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, and introduced a new model named the "Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)" in his newsletter. This marks the first time Samsung is expected to feature three smartwatches in its core lineup. While previous leaks indicated an Ultra model was in development, it was unclear if the 2025 version would be a generational update or a new variant of the 2024 release. The latest images show the Ultra in a notable blue color, but specifics on new features remain scarce. All models will run Samsung's One UI 8 Watch interface, which recently entered beta testing. The Galaxy Watch 8 series continues Samsung's push to update its smartwatch design and software ahead of the official launch. --- Purpose Investments will launch a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) in Canada this week, following regulatory approval. The ETF will provide investors access to the fourth-largest cryptocurrency by market cap through traditional investment accounts. The ETF will begin trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on Wednesday, June 18, under the ticker symbol XRPP. This follows the Ontario Securities Commission's (OSC) final prospectus receipt for the fund, as confirmed in a Monday press release. Following the announcement, XRP's price rose nearly 7% in the past 24 hours, outperforming both Bitcoin and the broader CoinDesk 20 Index. "The OSC’s granting of a receipt for the Purpose XRP ETF prospectus reinforces Canada’s global leadership in building a regulated digital asset ecosystem," said Vlad Tasevski, Chief Innovation Officer at Purpose Investments. Purpose Investments previously launched the world's first spot Bitcoin ETF in Canada in 2021, ahead of similar approvals in the U. S. --- After testing Cyberpunk 2077 across various systems and handheld devices, the Switch 2 stands out as the most enjoyable platform to play the game. It blends strong visuals with comfortable controls, making it likely the first system on which I'll complete the game since 2020. The Switch 2 version runs at 1080p resolution, delivering playable frame rates—typically between 30 and 40 fps—under quality settings both in handheld and docked modes. Performance remains consistent even during intense action sequences, though occasional frame rate dips occur in dense environments, particularly in third-person view. Controls on Switch 2 offer a significant advantage over other platforms. The game supports joystick and gyro aiming by default, providing precise targeting without relying solely on thumbsticks. A separate mouse mode is available but can cause hand discomfort over extended sessions due to awkward positioning and frequent hand rolling for button presses. Upgraded gyros on the Switch 2 enable smooth and accurate headshots, reducing the need for mouse controls. Additional motion-based controls allow weapon reloading and melee swings but feel less reliable, reminiscent of early motion gaming. Players typically prefer traditional button inputs for a tighter experience. Currently, enabling mouse mode disables gyro and thumbstick input, limiting flexibility. Future support for seamless switching between control methods, similar to upcoming games like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, would improve ergonomics. Despite strong graphics, some visual glitches appear, particularly kaleidoscopic effects on complex textures like fabric and rugs. These anomalies likely stem from the use of Nvidia's DLSS technology on the Switch 2's custom Nvidia chip, based on the Ampere architecture. While DLSS upscaling improves image clarity from 720p to 1080p, it occasionally introduces artifacts. The hardware supports some ray tracing effects, but not at the level of high-end gaming PCs. Cyberpunk 2077 remains a visually demanding game years after its release. The Switch 2 version preserves the immersive Night City atmosphere, portraying a richly detailed world affected by corporate control and social decay. Unlike the initial 2020 launch, which suffered severe bugs, this edition offers a smooth, visually appealing, and engaging experience on the go or docked. --- Instagram users have reported a surge in account bans and suspensions in recent weeks, many claiming their accounts were wrongly banned without violating platform policies. Several users suspect the use of AI automation may be responsible, though no direct evidence has been provided. Meta has not issued an official statement regarding these reports. Across social media platforms like Reddit and X, users share experiences of bans with no clear explanation or response to appeals. Many express frustration over the lack of direct support channels at Meta, leaving them uncertain about how to resolve their account issues. “I’ve already submitted multiple appeals, uploaded my ID, and tried reaching out to Meta through all the official channels, but I’ve been completely ignored. It feels like I’m shouting into a void,” wrote a Reddit user (u/Dyrovicious). Meta does offer verified account subscriptions for creators and businesses, which include priority customer service access, but this does not appear to address the broader ban concerns. The topic dominates discussions in Instagram-related Reddit communities and users frequently tag Instagram’s official accounts on X, demanding acknowledgment or resolution. A Change. org petition opposing the bans has gathered over 4,000 signatures. Some users have even threatened to pursue class action lawsuits against Meta. Automated moderation systems inevitably produce false positives, but the volume of bans has raised suspicion that AI-driven enforcement could be malfunctioning. Earlier this year, Pinterest faced a similar issue with mass bans stemming from an internal error, though the company denied AI was involved. The bans are impacting not only personal accounts but also business operations. Some users report significant disruptions to their livelihoods. “This is my livelihood, my full-time job. I heavily rely on Instagram for leads,” wrote one user (u/Paigejust). “This ban has directly affected my business and all of the hard work and branding that I’ve spent countless hours pouring into my business, my gym, and my students,” shared a gym owner (u/CourtShaw). Without transparency from Meta, it remains unclear if these bans represent an increase in false positives or another issue. Disturbingly, some users report being accused falsely of severe offenses such as child sexual exploitation, which can cause lasting damage to personal reputations and careers. --- After more than a year of absence, Nintendo has resumed direct sales of first-party games and accessories on Amazon. Over the weekend, Amazon began offering titles and products for the Nintendo Switch 2, marking a shift from the previous period when these items were unavailable through the retailer. Reports from April last year indicated that pre-orders for upcoming Nintendo titles, such as Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD, were being canceled on Amazon without explanation. Since then, new Nintendo games were only accessible via third-party sellers on the platform. Earlier this month, neither the Switch 2 nor its launch games and official accessories were available for pre-order on Amazon, frustrating many customers. This weekend, as noted by IGN and others, first-party Nintendo titles including Donkey Kong Bananza, Super Mario Party Jamboree, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World appeared for direct sale on Amazon. Although a listing for the Switch 2 briefly appeared, it has since been removed. These developments suggest that Nintendo and Amazon have resolved their issues and are preparing for a full return of Nintendo products to the retailer. Neither company has confirmed the reasons behind the prior withdrawal. Some speculate the move was related to leaks caused by early shipments, but no official statements have been made. --- T-Mobile is offering the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus for free when you trade in an eligible phone in any condition and sign up for their Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plans. The trade-in phone can be broken or used, but it must be an iPhone 12, Samsung Galaxy S10, or newer model. The $1,000 credit for the new phone is applied over a 24-month billing cycle, requiring a two-year contract. The Galaxy S25 Plus features a 6. 7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 3,120 x 1,440 pixels. It offers a versatile triple camera system, including a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom, praised for its strong computational photography capabilities. ZDNET’s phone expert noted its performance comes close to the higher-end S25 Ultra model. To claim the offer, customers must contact T-Mobile directly, as trade-in and activation processes vary by region. This deal is notable for accepting trade-ins in any condition, a rarity among carriers. Key conditions:Trade-in device must be iPhone 12, Galaxy S10, or newer, in any conditionMust be a current or new subscriber to Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plans$1,000 credit spread over 24 months in billing creditsWhile the deal is attractive, it requires a long-term commitment and phone credit billing. Availability is subject to change and may vary by location. For the latest terms and contact details, visit T-Mobile's official website. --- The Nintendo Switch 2 remains in high demand, with restocks appearing briefly and selling out quickly. Despite over 3. 5 million units sold, securing one can still be challenging. Here are current retailer stock links to check availability: Amazon Best Buy Walmart GameStop Target Nintendo Newegg Sam's Club Antonline BJs - Currently in stock Dell Verizon Costco Accessories: Nintendo Switch 2 Camera: A compact, affordable official webcam priced at $54, ideal for online play. Switch 2 Pro Controller: At $84, this controller offers improved ergonomics, responsive controls, and a 40-hour battery life, essential for docked play. Stock Updates: Recent scans across major U. S. retailers found limited availability, with most appearing sold out within minutes. BJ's Warehouse briefly had units in stock but quickly depleted. Scalper listings, especially on Amazon U. S. , have been removed to prevent price gouging. In the U. K. , Amazon continues to have stock of both the standalone Switch 2 and Mario Kart World bundles, though supplies are running low. GAME also reports limited availability on Switch 2 bundles. Upcoming Launch: Nintendo announced a Donkey Kong Bananza Direct livestream for June 18 — highlighting a major upcoming Switch 2 title set for release on July 17, currently available for pre-order. Amazon U. S. has recently activated its Switch 2 listing page, including game pre-orders, signaling that restocks may be forthcoming. UK gamers have more immediate access with current stock and Prime delivery options. Stay tuned for ongoing updates on Switch 2 restocks and availability across regions. --- A growing number of public companies are adding cryptocurrency to their treasuries, but an analyst warns against investing in alternative tokens with limited adoption and consumptive designs. Greg Cipolaro, global head of research at Bitcoin financial services firm NYDIG, highlighted Bitcoin's unique status as "digital gold" compared to many alternative cryptocurrencies, which function as consumptive commodities. These tokens are often "burned" or removed from circulation during transactions or when executing smart contracts, raising concerns about their long-term value for corporate treasuries. "Unlike Bitcoin, which investors understand best as 'digital gold,' many of these alternative treasury cryptocurrencies function as consumptive commodities," Cipolaro wrote. "These protocols may or may not achieve meaningful adoption, leaving open questions about the long-term value and utility of the treasury holdings. " Bitcoin's acceptance as a store of value has developed steadily within Wall Street, while other large tokens like Ethereum are still gaining traditional finance's confidence as utility assets. Cipolaro also warned that acquiring digital assets exposes firms to the risk of the associated network failing to scale successfully. Recent months have seen companies acquiring alternative cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Tron. Some firms have pursued tokens with niche applications, like Nasdaq-listed Synpatogenix accumulating TAO tokens for the AI-focused Bittensor network, and Interactive Strength acquiring Fetch. ai (FET) tokens, which support decentralized machine learning platforms. Cipolaro emphasized that crypto treasury strategies depend not just on the digital asset but also on the transparency and structure of the companies making these acquisitions. He noted that some microcap firms provide limited details, making it challenging for investors to evaluate their crypto holdings. --- Cryptocurrency markets advanced Monday as traders shifted focus from geopolitical tensions to institutional developments ahead of the Federal Open Market Committee's upcoming meeting. Bitcoin rose 3. 1% in 24 hours, reaching $108,600, approaching its all-time high. The broader crypto market also gained, with the CoinDesk 20 index climbing 4. 3%, led by strong performances from Chainlink and other major tokens. Traditional markets showed renewed risk appetite after last week's Middle East missile incidents. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq increased 0. 9% and 1. 4%, respectively, while gold dropped 1. 5%. Crypto-related stocks followed suit, with Coinbase and Circle up 7. 7% and 13%. Bitcoin miners Bitdeer and Hut 8 gained nearly 7% and 5. 6%. In contrast, Strategy declined slightly, while Metaplanet surged 25% on Japan's stock exchange. Key institutional news drove the crypto rally further. JPMorgan filed a trademark for a digital asset product offering trading, exchange, payment, and issuance services. Asset manager Purpose announced plans to launch a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) in Canada, boosting momentum for altcoin-focused funds. Altcoin OutlookNansen analyst Nicolai Søndergaard tempered expectations for a sustained altcoin rally. He noted Bitcoin still leads the market, with altcoins often reacting to Bitcoin's movements. While some altcoins and DeFi tokens have seen short bursts of strength, most remain weakened over time. Bitcoin's recovery from Friday's lows suggests improving market conditions. Bitfinex analysts highlighted that recent market behavior resembles local bottom setups, indicating selling pressure may be easing if Bitcoin holds the $102,000-$103,000 range. Focus on the Federal ReserveThe Federal Reserve and Chair Jerome Powell's upcoming announcements are in investors' sights. The market widely expects rate hikes to pause through July. However, Powell's tone during the press conference is expected to influence volatility across commodities and risk assets more than the rate decision itself, according to digital asset analytics firm Swissblock. --- Hundreds of Microsoft 365 users reported issues with Outlook and Teams on Monday evening, causing widespread frustration. Users took to social media to share problems ranging from crashes to high memory usage. Downdetector recorded a surge of over 1,400 complaints starting around 6:30 pm, with 59% related to Outlook, 26% concerning login problems, and 15% about the Microsoft 365 website. Microsoft acknowledged the disruptions, stating, "We're having issues, but we're working on it. " The company confirmed intermittent crashes in the Microsoft Teams desktop app and marked Teams as currently down. Microsoft is deploying a new build expected to resolve Teams issues by Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM UTC. Although complaints about Outlook persisted, Microsoft reported the service as up. Earlier in the week, Microsoft shared a possible workaround for Outlook crashes linked to the inability to open the Forms Library, particularly affecting virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) users. The suggested fix involves creating a FORMS2 folder, and the issue is under investigation. Microsoft 365 serves over two million companies worldwide, including more than one million in the US. --- Health tech company Oura has launched a brand campaign called “Give Us the Finger” that challenges typical fitness advertising stereotypes. Instead of focusing on youthful athletes, the campaign highlights the positive and aspirational aspects of aging. Oura CMO Doug Sweeny explained that younger generations are anxious about aging. "Longevity is not just about the length of your life; it's about how well you live it, staying healthy and happy through every stage," he said. A 60-second commercial directed by Walid Labri features people aged 40 to late 70s wearing the Oura Ring in varied settings including gyms, diners, art galleries, and outdoors. The campaign also includes TV spots, outdoor advertising in major cities, and a New York experiential activation. The independent creative agency Nice&Frank developed the campaign from a clear brief focused on embracing longevity. Creative Director Rob Stone said, "We wanted to show that you can get old, and Oura can help you get there. ” The headline “Live Fast, Die Old” was conceived by Oura’s head of creative, Matt Kipper. To maintain authenticity, the team cast real individuals who embody an active and vibrant older lifestyle, including viral street baller George Papoutsis and Argentine tango dancers Mónica Romero and Omar Ocampo. Even a depiction of Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old “Saint John the Baptist” appears wearing the ring. The ad’s style features continuous push-in shots that transition fluidly between scenes, culminating each vignette with a focus on the finger wearing the Oura Ring. The campaign’s tagline, “Give Us the Finger,” conveys a double meaning: an invitation to join a community rather than a rebellious gesture. CMO Sweeny acknowledged the tagline’s edginess but views it as a powerful symbol for connection and embracing aging positively. --- Artificial intelligence is reshaping how brands interact with consumers, moving beyond basic support to personalized, context-aware engagement. Indian companies are leading this shift with innovative AI applications that enhance customer experience and boost business results. HDFC Bank’s AI chatbot, EVA, handles over 2. 7 million queries annually, providing 24/7 assistance that lowers service costs and reduces wait times. This represents effective use of reactive AI in customer support. Myntra’s "My Stylist" uses predictive algorithms to recommend outfits based on user preferences, body type, and current trends. This personalization has increased cross-sales by 20% and improved customer retention. BigBasket analyzes purchase patterns to remind customers when to restock essentials like milk and rice, resulting in a 25% rise in repeat orders. Zomato demonstrates empathetic AI by sending context-aware suggestions, such as recommending hot momos on a rainy evening in Delhi. These targeted prompts create a human-like connection, blending behavioral data with real-time conditions to enhance user comfort. --- Peloton Interactive has appointed Megan Imbres as its chief marketing officer, effective July 7, marking the company’s fourth CMO change in five years. The move reflects Peloton’s ongoing challenges in adjusting its business post-pandemic boom. Imbres brings extensive direct-to-consumer and entertainment marketing experience from roles at Apple, Amazon, and Netflix. She succeeds Lauren Weinberg, who left in April during a reorganization that divided Peloton's marketing into separate chief marketing and chief communications functions. An avid cyclist and triathlete, Imbres will oversee global brand and product marketing, growth strategies, creative development, consumer insights, and member engagement. She will report directly to CEO Peter Stern. Before joining Peloton, Imbres led Apple’s marketing communications in Los Angeles, focusing on major campaigns including those tied to Apple Music and Apple TV. She previously held senior marketing roles at Amazon Advertising, the streaming startup Quibi, and Netflix, where she helped build the Originals brand. Peloton is shifting its focus away from hardware-dependent offerings like bikes and treadmills, aiming to attract a broader subscriber base. During Weinberg’s tenure, the company launched campaigns targeting new audiences, such as a series featuring NFL players designed to appeal to millennial men. Alongside this marketing leadership change, Peloton announced the promotion of Francis Shanahan to chief technology officer. Shanahan, formerly senior vice president of connected fitness software, will lead engineering and innovation efforts, including advancements in customer-facing artificial intelligence. --- Studios, streamers, and record labels are expanding promotional partnerships to capture audience attention in a crowded market, says Disney’s chief brand officer Asad Ayaz. The past year saw unprecedented collaborations across various campaigns. Universal’s Wicked campaign stood out with over 450 promotional partners, including Walmart and Monopoly, despite doubts about the film's success. Legendary’s Dune: Part Two also earned praise with its viral sandworm popcorn bucket and Xbox Ornithopter flight experience that logged 181 million miles. Amazon MGM Studios effectively promoted Red One, partnering with brands like M&M’s and Pillsbury to support $176 million in global ticket sales. On TV, their activation for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power included social invasions by Orc armies in 31 countries. Apple Music gained attention through Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show, viewed by 133. 5 million people, and boosted engagement by featuring a 1987 Buick Grand National GNX linked to Lamar’s album. Apple TV+ used innovative strategies such as a live-in glass cube stunt for Severance at Grand Central Station and a notable State Farm ad integration. Music labels made strategic moves, with Atlantic Records promoting Charli XCX’s “Brat” campaign alongside H&M, Interscope Records dominating hip-hop charts, and Columbia Records finding success with Tyler, the Creator's early album release. Epic Games further bridged entertainment and gaming with concerts and in-game artist takeovers in Fortnite. AMC Networks combined brand integration and original content, while Focus Features elevated specialty films like Nosferatu through unique retail collaborations and immersive marketing. Fox Entertainment partnered with outdoor brand BattlBox for the survival series Extracted. HBO & Max leveraged partnerships with American Express and the Four Seasons for The White Lotus, creating immersive fan experiences. Neon’s agile marketing for indie films Anora and Longlegs included successful pop-up merchandise and online cipher campaigns. Netflix expanded live programming partnerships for high-profile events such as Beyoncé’s NFL Halftime Show and sports streaming with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson, while Paramount capitalized on viral TikTok challenges and large brand tie-ins for films like Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning and Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Searchlight Pictures showcased Timothée Chalamet to promote the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, collaborating with Levi’s for authentic denim merchandise. Sony Pictures Entertainment boosted summer releases with creative partnerships involving Monster Energy and Popchips. The Walt Disney Company achieved remarkable box office results with films such as Deadpool & Wolverine, Inside Out 2, and Moana 2, aided by partnerships with Heinz, Airbnb, Hawaiian Airlines, and Spam. Disney’s television marketing secured record Emmy wins and innovative collaborations like Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building with Rare Beauty. Warner Records excelled in artist development with Benson Boone and Teddy Swims, securing brand partnerships including BMW campaigns featuring Boone’s hit single. Warner Bros. Pictures’ marketing team contributed to the success of A Minecraft Movie with viral branded snacks and a global McDonald’s campaign. Each of these entertainment giants demonstrated creative and impactful ways to connect with consumers, combining multimedia campaigns, brand partnerships, and cultural relevance to make 2025 a standout year for entertainment marketing. --- Jadarite is a unique lithium-rich mineral discovered in 2004 in Jadar, Serbia. Its chemical composition—a sodium lithium borosilicate hydroxide—makes it highly valuable for battery production, crucial for the transition away from fossil fuels. Despite being named "kryptonite" in the movie Superman Returns, the mineral does not share the fictional properties such as a green glow or radioactivity. The Jadar deposit contains enough lithium to supply batteries for up to 90% of Europe's anticipated electric vehicles in the coming decades. However, its extraction faces complex political challenges involving Serbia and the European Union. Scientists have recently uncovered the specific geological conditions required for jadarite to form. These include the presence of lithium-rich volcanic glass, alkaline terminal lakes, and the transformation of clay minerals into crystalline structures under precise chemical conditions. Such a unique combination is extremely rare, explaining why jadarite has only been found in this one location so far. “Similar to baking a cake, everything needs to be measured and exact for this rare mineral to form,” said Dr. Francesco Putzolu from the Natural History Museum, London. “If conditions are too acidic or too cold, jadarite will not form, which is why it hasn’t been identified elsewhere. ” While the mineral is rare, understanding its formation process may help researchers narrow down potential new sites for discovery. This knowledge could facilitate locating other deposits and improving extraction methods. “With global lithium demand rising in the push for renewable energy, jadarite could play a significant role if mined sustainably,” said Dr. Robin Armstrong, geologist and co-author of the study published in Nature Geoscience. “Our findings bring us closer to identifying other possible deposits. ” --- Si Yu Wei’s entrepreneurial journey began at 16, selling snacks to classmates despite school rules. What started as a small venture to earn pocket money evolved into a thriving dumpling business generating six-figure monthly sales. Yu Wei excelled in economics and mathematics in school and later pursued a Bachelor’s in Business (Marketing). During university, she balanced three full-time jobs while attending online classes during Malaysia’s Movement Control Order (MCO), gaining experience in business operations and saving capital to invest in her own venture. After experimenting with various product sales, Yu Wei discovered her passion for dumplings during MCO. Starting with RM300, she invested about RM50,000 after traveling to China for training and purchasing equipment. Her business expanded quickly, but she faced challenges, including working 15-hour days alone, coping with overwhelming orders that led to quality control issues, and setbacks like a power outage that destroyed stock worth RM20,000. In September 2024, she opened a physical stall but shut it down eight months later due to staffing difficulties and declining food quality. She refocused on the online business, which stabilized by April 2025. Today, her dumpling brand consistently reaches RM100,000 in monthly sales but remains limited by manpower shortages. Yu Wei pays herself RM5,000 monthly, reinvesting most profits to grow the business. Reflecting on her journey, Yu Wei advises aspiring entrepreneurs not to overthink or fear failure. "Most obstacles are self-doubt," she said. "Start now, learn from mistakes, and keep going. You never know what’s possible until you try. " --- Among keyboard enthusiasts, the term "endgame" refers to finding the perfect keyboard setup to stop tinkering and start using it fully. Yet, that ideal often remains elusive due to compromises in cost, time, or availability. Ryan Norbauer, founder of Norbauer & Co. , has defied these constraints with the Seneca keyboard: a $3,600, seven-pound masterpiece crafted from plasma-oxide-finished milled aluminum, featuring a solid brass switch plate, custom capacitive switches, and the company's own stabilizers. The keyboard offers a flat typing angle, spherical-profile keycaps with retro-centered legends, and no backlighting. After months of testing the Seneca, users praise its exceptional build quality and superior typing experience, citing Topre-style switches that outperform originals and industry-leading stabilizers. Norbauer's journey began with a passion for computing sparked in his 1990s West Virginia childhood, inspired by Star Trek and early internet culture. He transitioned from starting startups and learning to code under challenging conditions, to exploring industrial design and keyboard customization. He initially focused on creating aluminum housings for Topre keyboards, like the Norbatouch, Norbaforce, and Heavy Grail models, designed to replace the less desirable plastic cases of original keyboards. Despite success, relying on OEM keyboard supply limited control and customization. Determined to build a fully custom keyboard, Norbauer designed the Seneca with a unique capacitive switch mechanism that maintains Topre's tactile feel but eliminates wobble and adds compatibility with MX-style keycaps. This required redesigning switch housings and stems and undergoing multiple rounds of prototyping to optimize sound and feel. He also reinvented keyboard stabilizers—the mechanisms ensuring balanced keypress feel on larger keys—by collaborating with kinematics experts to develop two innovative stabilizer designs. The Seneca employs a complex, high-precision model that drastically reduces noise and improves responsiveness without lubrication. The keyboard's case is machined from solid aluminum with a specialized finish, and the brass switchplate enhances acoustic qualities. Its PCB features galvanic isolation for electrical safety, and it uses premium Lemo connectors for durability and style. The keycaps, chosen for comfort and aesthetics, come from MTNU's spherical-profile line. Each Seneca is hand-assembled in Norbauer's Los Angeles workshop, with painstaking stabilizer assembly requiring precision adjustments. Despite its high price and substantial development costs—still unrecovered weeks after launch—the keyboard targets a niche audience who value craftsmanship over cost. Norbauer aims for limited production runs akin to Leica in photography: creating technically fascinating, exclusive products for a small but dedicated clientele. Having secured investment to handle business operations, he remains focused on engineering and design. Future plans include leveraging the custom switches and stabilizers for new keyboard models with varying layouts, materials, and sound profiles. Open-source firmware and further R&D on stabilizer designs are also underway. While the Seneca is an elite luxury item unlikely to appeal to most users, it represents a remarkable achievement in keyboard engineering and artisanal manufacture. --- Just over a week after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has begun surveying users to gather feedback on their experience with the new console. Users in regions including Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Europe may have received an email inviting them to participate. The survey covers basic demographic information such as age and household size, along with general gaming habits and specific questions about the Switch 2. Key questions include whether participants have purchased the Switch 2, if they intend to make it their primary gaming device, and how they acquired it. Some sections require written responses, asking users to explain their reasons for buying the Switch 2, what they like about the system so far, and any aspects they find unsatisfactory. Nintendo noted that survey availability is limited. Recipients are encouraged to respond promptly to share their firsthand experiences with the Switch 2 within its first week on the market. --- Google is advising its 2 billion users to change their Gmail passwords due to widespread email attacks. According to Evan Kotsovinos, Google's vice-president of privacy, safety, and security, 61% of U. S. consumers have been targeted by email scams, with a third experiencing data breaches. Kotsovinos urged users to replace passwords with passkeys, a more secure authentication method that relies on biometric verification like face or fingerprint recognition. Passkeys are resistant to phishing and eliminate the need to remember complex passwords. Passkeys function using a pair of cryptographic keys: a public key stored on Google's servers and a private key kept on the user's device. This system ensures that login credentials cannot be intercepted or guessed, securing the sign-in process against hacking attempts. To switch to passkeys, users should have a compatible device and browser, such as Windows 10, macOS Ventura, or ChromeOS 109 and above, combined with smartphones running iOS 16 or Android 9 or later. Users on Apple devices must enable iCloud Keychain. Google provides a simple three-step process to set up passkeys through account security settings. Implementing passkeys helps protect Gmail accounts from ongoing cyberattacks that often use AI-driven techniques, significantly enhancing user security. --- Jadarite is a rare lithium-rich mineral essential for manufacturing batteries critical to the global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Discovered in 2004 by Rio Tinto researchers in Jadar, Serbia, it holds enough lithium to power up to 90% of Europe's future electric vehicles. Its chemical composition, sodium lithium borosilicate hydroxide, is unique and previously unknown in nature, although it gained fame as the fictional kryptonite in the film Superman Returns. Unlike its cinematic counterpart, jadarite does not glow or emit radiation. The mineral's formation requires highly specific geological conditions: lithium-rich volcanic glass, alkaline terminal lakes, and the transformation of clay minerals into crystalline forms. These rare factors explain why jadarite is found only at this single location. Dr. Francesco Putzolu from the Natural History Museum, London, noted that even slight deviations in acidity or temperature prevent jadarite's formation, making its natural occurrence exceptionally limited. Understanding the exact formation process narrows the search for other deposits worldwide, despite none yet being discovered elsewhere. Dr. Robin Armstrong, co-author of the study published in Nature Geoscience, emphasized the mineral's potential role in meeting growing lithium demand for renewable energy technologies. The extraction of jadarite also involves complex political considerations between Serbia and the European Union, highlighting the challenges in harnessing this resource. --- Mojang has announced that Minecraft's "Vibrant Visuals" update will launch on June 17. This update introduces enhanced visual elements including directional lighting and volumetric fog, aimed at improving the overall look of the game. The update adjusts the atmosphere of each biome, with warmer areas displaying orange and yellow hues, while cooler biomes take on a crisper blue tone. According to Mojang, these changes are purely aesthetic and do not affect gameplay mechanics such as light levels or mob spawning. Vibrant Visuals will be available on many platforms supporting Minecraft Bedrock Edition, and will activate by default on compatible devices once updated. The feature is currently not available for the Java Edition, but Mojang is actively developing a version for it. Dejan Dimic, the lead on Vibrant Visuals, described this release as the first step in modernizing Minecraft’s visual experience and expressed eagerness to receive player feedback. --- Nintendo's Switch 2 has become the fastest-selling Nintendo hardware ever in the United States, breaking records for launch week sales. According to Circana analyst Mat Piscatella, over 1. 1 million Switch 2 units were sold in the US during the week ending June 7, 2025. This marks an all-time launch week record for video game hardware in the country, surpassing the previous record held by Sony's PlayStation 4. These figures exclude purchases made through the My Nintendo Store. Additionally, 79% of US buyers purchased the exclusive Switch 2 launch title, Mario Kart World, either individually or as part of system bundles. In terms of physical game sales for the Switch 2 in the US, Mario Kart World leads, followed by Cyberpunk 2077 and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Switch 2 Edition. The new Mario Kart title also dominated software sales in other regions during its first week. Earlier reports from Nintendo revealed that over 3. 5 million Switch 2 units were sold globally within the first four days, setting a new record for the fastest Nintendo hardware sales worldwide. --- A week after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has begun surveying users about their experience with the new console. The survey is being sent to users in regions including Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Europe. Recipients are asked general demographic questions as well as specific queries related to Nintendo products and the Switch 2. Questions focus on whether respondents have purchased the Switch 2, if they intend to make it their primary gaming device, and how they acquired the system. There are also open-ended questions about the reasons for purchasing the console, features enjoyed, and any aspects users find disappointing. Nintendo notes that survey participation is limited. Those who receive the email are encouraged to respond promptly to share their feedback on the Switch 2 experience. --- Apple announced iOS 26 on June 9, releasing the first developer beta the same day. Remarkably, a second build of this initial beta appeared just three days later, a much faster release pace than usual. Typically, updates do not arrive until the second beta in late June or early July, often weeks after the first, with the public beta scheduled for July. This time, Apple’s rapid release suggests a critical update. The iOS 26 beta is currently available only for iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models; devices running iPhone 14 or earlier are not supported in this beta phase. Registered developers can check for updates by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update. The build number has changed from 23A5260n to 23A5260u, indicating a revised version of the first beta rather than a full second beta release. Apple has not detailed the differences between these builds, but reports suggest the update addresses a battery-related issue that could cause some iPhone 15 and 16 units to display a low battery icon and fail to start after updating. Other speculation points to a critical bug or security flaw or the removal of leaked code referencing future products such as AirPods Pro 3. One of the most notable features introduced in iOS 26 is smart storage management. Previously, low device storage could block system updates, requiring users to manually free up space. iOS 26 aims to resolve this by dynamically reserving storage space ahead of updates, smoothing the update process for users with nearly full devices. Details on how much space will be reserved or how the system manages this are still emerging, though it may function similarly to mechanisms in macOS. As Apple releases more information, further details on iOS 26 and its features will be available. --- An enthusiastic group of Nintendo Switch fans has created a comprehensive list evaluating how original Switch games run on the new Nintendo Switch 2 console. The fan-made database records performance changes, whether improvements or declines, based on user experience rather than official patches. More than 350 games have been submitted so far, with detailed performance notes for over 150 titles. For example, players report that ARMS benefits from smoother framerates and enhanced dynamic resolution on Switch 2 after a free update, although loading times remain similar. Meanwhile, Diablo 3: Eternal Edition shows better frame rate stability and quicker load times on Switch 2 without any formal update. The list’s creator acknowledges that players’ observations can be subjective, and some users have reported differing experiences. The purpose of the list is strictly informational, helping gamers understand how their existing Switch library may perform on the new hardware without making purchase recommendations. Interested users can contribute or view the list on Reddit. Since its launch, Nintendo has sold 3. 5 million Switch 2 units in four days, marking it as the company's fastest-selling hardware. Nintendo also addressed a known issue with the Switch 2’s battery indicator displaying inaccurately. --- Apple's iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are anticipated to launch in approximately three months, featuring several significant updates according to recent rumors. Aluminum Frame: Unlike the titanium frame of recent Pro models, the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to use an aluminum frame combined with a part-aluminum, part-glass back design. Rectangular Camera Bump: A larger rectangular camera bump with rounded corners will house a triangular arrangement of lenses. New Sky Blue Finish: Inspired by the latest MacBook Air, a Sky Blue color option may be introduced. Larger Battery: The iPhone 17 Pro Max might offer a slightly thicker build to accommodate a bigger battery. A19 Pro Chip: Powered by Apple’s next-generation A19 Pro chip built on TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process, the device is expected to deliver modest boosts in performance and efficiency. Apple-Designed Wi-Fi 7 Chip: All iPhone 17 models will likely feature a new Wi-Fi 7 chip designed in-house, replacing Broadcom components. 24-Megapixel Front Camera: The front-facing camera will double its resolution from 12MP to 24MP across all models. 48-Megapixel Telephoto Camera: Pro models are set to upgrade their telephoto lens from 12MP to 48MP. Dual Video Recording: Users may be able to record simultaneously with front and rear cameras through the stock Camera app. 8K Video Recording: With the enhanced rear cameras, 8K video capture could debut on the iPhone 17 Pro series, a feature previously tested but unreleased. 12GB RAM: Both Pro and Air models are rumored to receive a RAM increase from 8GB to 12GB, supporting better multitasking and intelligence features. Improved Cooling System: Internal redesigns including a vapor chamber cooling system aim to improve heat dissipation. This roundup aligns with Apple's typical multi-year development strategy, revealing details months ahead of launch. Additional rumors and updates can be found in Apple's dedicated iPhone 17 Pro coverage. --- Jadarite is a rare lithium-rich mineral essential for battery production and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Discovered exclusively in Jadar, Serbia, its unique formation process has now been decoded by scientists. First identified in 2004 by Rio Tinto researchers, jadarite's chemical composition is sodium lithium borosilicate hydroxide. Interestingly, this formula was previously fictionalized as "kryptonite" in the film Superman Returns. Unlike the movie version, jadarite is neither glowing nor radioactive. The Serbian deposit contains enough lithium to power up to 90% of Europe's projected electric vehicles in the coming decades. However, mining jadarite involves geopolitical tensions between Serbia and the European Union. Researchers determined that jadarite's formation requires highly specific conditions: lithium-rich volcanic glass, alkaline terminal lakes, and transformation of clay minerals into crystalline structures under precise chemical and environmental factors. Any deviation in acidity or temperature prevents its formation. "The ingredients and conditions need to be exact, much like baking a cake," said Dr. Francesco Putzolu of the Natural History Museum, London. The extreme rarity of these conditions explains why jadarite is only found in one location. Understanding its formation narrows the search for similar deposits worldwide. While jadarite is not common, this discovery could help identify other viable sources of lithium in the future. "With ongoing demand for lithium in renewable energy, jadarite mining holds significant potential," added geologist Dr. Robin Armstrong, also from the Natural History Museum. "Our findings bring us closer to locating new deposits by recreating its formation conditions in the lab. "The research was published in Nature Geoscience. --- Media buyers are reevaluating demand-side platform (DSP) partnerships as the ad tech ecosystem undergoes significant changes. Attendees at Digiday’s Programmatic Marketing Summit voiced a strong interest in shifting budgets toward more transparent DSPs that better meet client needs. One key topic was Amazon's growing presence in the DSP market, which could challenge established leaders like The Trade Desk and Google’s DV360. The demand was so high that a virtual follow-up session was scheduled to delve deeper. Participants in a June 6 virtual town hall, held under Chatham House Rule, discussed the risks and opportunities presented by major DSPs and the likelihood of market consolidation. Microsoft’s Xandr DSP Closure: Microsoft Advertising’s decision to shut down Xandr’s DSP in 2025 sparked debate. Several attendees noted the partnership with Netflix limited Xandr’s potential, as Netflix’s inventory was seen as costly and immature. Advertisers faced challenges activating campaigns, which tarnished Xandr’s reputation more than Netflix’s. Amazon’s Rising DSP Influence: Amazon has become the third-largest DSP, leveraging zero-fee supply-side platform services to attract publishers and compete with The Trade Desk. Despite operational challenges, Amazon offers valuable first-party data through its Marketing Cloud. However, some warned of its aggressive business model and potential to dominate the market similarly to Google. Google’s Customer Support and Market Position: Customer dissatisfaction with Google’s support surfaced prominently. Media buyers reported limited assistance unless spending extremely large sums, often receiving only generic help center articles. Despite frustrations, many continue to use Google due to its effective inventory. Upcoming antitrust proceedings could disrupt Google’s DSP dominance and alter market dynamics. The Trade Desk’s Sophistication and Pricing Issues: Recognized as the most advanced DSP, The Trade Desk faces criticism for its complex and costly fee structures. Users described its evolving API as inconsistent and challenging, and many struggle to understand the platform’s total expenses due to opaque pricing. As media buyers navigate this shifting landscape, transparency, support, and platform capabilities remain critical factors influencing DSP partnerships and spend allocation. --- Mars has chosen Publicis as its new agency partner following a comprehensive review process. Gülen Bengi, Mars' Chief Marketing Officer, shared insights with Ad Age about the decision and the company's updated growth strategy. The review was part of Mars' efforts to realign its marketing approach and drive growth in a changing consumer landscape. Bengi emphasized the importance of finding an agency that aligns with Mars' priorities and can support its evolving business goals. This move reflects Mars' commitment to innovation and adapting to new market dynamics within the consumer packaged goods sector. --- The social media landscape for spirits brands has evolved significantly, with many exiting X (formerly Twitter) amid controversial changes and declining organic reach. While some brands have closed or restricted their accounts on X, others are shifting focus to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and emerging sites such as BlueSky. Instagram remains a key platform for spirits brands due to its diverse user base and strong sales conversion potential. TikTok offers significant organic reach for new accounts, despite complex advertising restrictions, which recently eased in the US. Threads has seen a 73. 6% higher engagement rate compared to X, making it an appealing alternative for audience engagement. Hebe Richardson, founder of Drinks With Hebe, emphasizes that spirits brands should tailor their social media strategies based on brand maturity and target audience. Established brands tend to perform well on Facebook, while newer brands gain traction on TikTok. Instagram continues to offer good opportunities for reach and sales. Meanwhile, many brands avoid investing heavily in X due to its lowering effectiveness and regulatory concerns. Below are the top 10 spirits brands leading social media engagement in 2025, evaluated on content frequency, creativity, engagement, responsiveness, relevance, and consistency. Follower counts are from May 2024. 10. Olmeca Altos – 124,841 followers. Known for playful celebrity-led campaigns, including a Margarita-making campaign with actress Busy Philipps that generated user content and engagement. 9. Beefeater – 652,400 followers. Leveraged influencer-driven cultural campaigns, such as the viral #OnWednesdaysWeDrinkPink, resulting in millions of engagements and a surge in user-generated content. 6. Jameson – 744,600 followers. Expanded into gaming with a Football Manager partnership, achieving 10 million impressions and high audience engagement. 6. Aperol – 1,320,100 followers. Maintains brand consistency with signature branding and influencer campaigns, including Coachella festival sponsorship, driving strong user-generated content. 6. Grey Goose – 2,779,800 followers. Combined sport, luxury lifestyle, and event activations, notably boosting the Honey Deuce cocktail’s cultural status and sales via viral social media buzz. 5. Havana Club – 2,468,000 followers. Increased engagement through educational contests, seasonal bottle promotions with animated assets, and cross-category collaborations. 4. Teremana – 906,500 followers. Celebrity affiliation helped grow a large following with active presence across platforms, efficiently repurposing content on X. 3. Baileys – 5,043,449 followers. The liqueur embraces playful, shareable content promoting enjoyment, maintaining perfect consistency across channels. 2. Malibu – 2,420,200 followers. Balanced viral content and responsible messaging, highlighted by a summer water safety initiative featuring Olympic diver Tom Daley. 1. Kahlúa – 817,118 followers. Social Media Hero 2025 for its resurgence driven by creative campaigns with Salma Hayek and influencer collaborations, transforming it into a culturally relevant brand with strong multi-platform presence. --- British TV presenter Lorraine Kelly expressed skepticism over actress Sydney Sweeney’s marketing stunt of selling soap made with her bathwater during a discussion on the UK morning show Lorraine. Joined by journalists Matt Chorley and Claer Barrett, Kelly called the idea "beyond silly. " Kelly questioned the appeal of purchasing such a product. Chorley noted that the soap sold out quickly, while Barrett explained that Sweeney collaborated with American brand Dr. Squatch, known for luxury soaps, to produce bars containing only a tiny amount of her bathwater. These bars originally sold for about $8 (£6) through US retailers. While skeptical, Kelly acknowledged the product's success but referred to it as "silly marketing nonsense. " The soap also sparked viral debate online when an X (formerly Twitter) user falsely claimed it had a hole in the middle, leading to the nickname "SoapGate. " However, other users dismissed the claim, highlighting it as a marketing boon. After the launch on Dr. Squatch’s website, the soap sold out almost instantly. Resellers on eBay have since listed the bars at inflated prices ranging from $119 to as high as $1,600, with one listing asking $2,000. These resale packages often include glossy, high-quality 8. 5-inch photo prints of Sydney Sweeney, featuring images from her show Euphoria. The autographs on these prints are reportedly reproductions, not originals. --- The Nintendo Switch 2 set a new U. S. gaming record, selling over 1. 1 million units in its launch week ending June 7, 2025. This surpasses the previous record held by the PlayStation 4. Including all sales, the first week total is projected between 1. 3 and 1. 35 million units, though this figure is not yet confirmed. Sales from the My Nintendo Store were not included in the initial count. Top-selling physical games on launch were:Mario Kart World (most purchased, with 79% of Switch 2 buyers acquiring it either physically or bundled with the hardware)Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition (second place)The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (third place)Nintendo confirmed that Switch 2 is the company’s fastest-selling hardware in the U. S. and achieved the highest global sales for any Nintendo platform in its first four days. Credit to Mat Piscatella for providing the sales data. --- Digital Foundry has released its technical analysis of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition running on Nintendo's new Switch 2 console. The review evaluates how both the main story and the Phantom Liberty expansion perform on the system. It is noteworthy that the Phantom Liberty expansion is included, despite CD Projekt Red choosing to exclude older consoles like PS4 and Xbox One. The Switch 2’s ability to run this content is impressive, though it represents the greatest strain on the hardware. The game offers four visual modes on Switch 2: 30fps quality and 40fps performance, each available in handheld and docked formats. Resolutions vary as follows:Handheld Performance: 640x360 to 1280x720Handheld Quality: 800x450 to 1440x810Docked Performance: 960x540 to 1920x1080Docked Quality: 1280x720 to 1920x1080DLSS technology is employed, though fast-paced action can introduce visual artifacts like blurriness and temporal noise. Aside from resolution, visual quality remains consistent between handheld and docked play. Texture quality on Switch 2 matches the PS5 and surpasses the Xbox Series X and PS4 in many respects. While many textures are uniform across platforms, Switch 2 achieves notably crisp image clarity thanks to DLSS, especially compared to PS4. However, pedestrian and vehicle density is closer to PS4 levels, resulting in less populated environments to maintain stable frame rates. Shadow quality varies: indoor shadows on Switch 2 are superior to PS4, but outdoor shadows are slightly weaker. Performance-wise, the Switch 2 maintains 30fps in quality mode during the main story, but frame rates dip to 20-25fps in the more complex Phantom Liberty expansion environments. In 40fps performance mode, indoor areas generally hold steady near 40fps, while outdoor zones and intense combat can reduce frame rates to around 30fps or below. Handheld performance appears roughly equivalent to docked, though Digital Foundry notes limited testing in this mode. Variable refresh rate (VRR) enhances smoothness during portable play, but frame dips below 30fps become more noticeable. --- Apple recently unveiled watchOS 10, highlighting several new features for the Apple Watch. Among enhancements like a smarter Smart Stack, Live Translations for messages, and Workout Buddy — an AI-driven tool offering real-time workout feedback — one stands out for its practical everyday use. Called Wrist Flick, this feature allows users to dismiss notifications quickly with a simple wrist movement. Whether it’s app alerts, incoming calls, or timers, a quick roll of the wrist away from the user will clear these interruptions efficiently. Wrist Flick aims to improve notification management on the Apple Watch, providing a seamless and intuitive way to handle distractions without needing to tap or swipe. --- Cryptocurrency investors seeking early access to promising tokens rely on launchpads—platforms that facilitate discovery, research, and purchase of new crypto projects. One recommended tool is the Best Wallet app, available on iOS and Android, which streamlines token launches, tokenomics analysis, and asset management. To get started, users should:Download a licensed crypto exchange app such as Best Wallet. Create and verify an account using email, Google, or Apple ID with identity verification and two-factor authentication for security. Fund the account via bank transfer, credit card, or gift cards. Purchase cryptocurrencies using ticker symbols like BTC or ETH. Choose suitable storage options: exchange wallets, hot wallets, or cold wallets for enhanced security. Early access to token sales can provide a significant advantage. However, platform user retention tends to be low as investors frequently switch among tools like Moonshot and DexScreener in search of better features. Key ecosystems supporting new token launches include:Solana: Known for low fees and high throughput, with launchpads like Raydium’s AcceleRaytor and wallet support from Phantom. Tools like Solscan offer detailed transaction and token tracking. Ethereum: Decentralized exchanges such as Uniswap allow token trading and discovery. DexScreener provides enhanced analytics, and following Ethereum developers helps identify emerging projects. Binance Smart Chain (BSC): PancakeSwap leads token trading and yield farming, while BSCScan tracks new token contracts. Aggregators like CoinLaunch and Best Wallet aggregate launches. Investors should also monitor crypto forums, Telegram and Discord groups, and reputable news sites like CoinDesk and Cointelegraph for project announcements. According to experts, tokens are created through blockchain protocols using smart contracts that define supply, distribution, and functionality. Finding reliable launchpads involves research on trusted platforms and social channels. Launchpads help fund new blockchain projects by offering early-stage token sales with vetting and promotional support. Well-known platforms include Binance Launchpad, CoinList, and DAO Maker, while others like Pump. fun gain popularity for specific features. Choosing exchanges with strong security, liquidity, and regulatory compliance is vital. Top exchanges often cited are Binance, Coinbase, Kraken, Bitstamp, Crypto. com, Bullish, and Gemini. By leveraging these tools and resources, investors can enhance their chances of discovering and securing stakes in the next successful crypto projects. --- Apple has officially introduced iOS 26 with a major redesign called 'Liquid Glass,' a change described by Craig Federighi as a once-in-a-decade shift. This new interface aims to create a seamless blend between iPhone hardware and software, setting the foundation for future hardware innovations. The Liquid Glass design emphasizes an interface that mirrors the glass surfaces of Apple devices, enhancing the sense of the glass display coming alive. Designer Sebastiaan de With described it as an interface matching the material qualities of Apple’s products. Many see this design best suited for ultra-thin devices where the display dominates the design, minimizing distractions from other elements. This aligns with Apple’s long-standing vision of a "single slab of glass" design, which is expected to be fully realized with the special 20th anniversary iPhone set for 2027. In the near term, the upcoming iPhone 17 Air is garnering particular anticipation due to its radically sleek, lightweight design, making it an ideal match for iOS 26’s Liquid Glass interface. Current thicker iPhone models may feel less fitting for this new design aesthetic. While Liquid Glass will enhance all iPhone models with iOS 26, the iPhone 17 Air could best deliver a preview of Apple’s future direction with this clean, glass-centric design. Do you think the Liquid Glass design increases the appeal of the iPhone 17 Air? Share your thoughts in the comments. --- The cryptocurrency market has faced significant downturns following escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel. This unrest has impacted various altcoins, including PI coin, which has seen notable losses. In the last 24 hours, PI's price dropped about 10%, accompanied by a 254% surge in trading volume, reaching $241. 31 million. Its market capitalization declined to $4. 2 billion with a dominance of 0. 1288%, fueling widespread fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) within the crypto community. Investors remain cautious as uncertain conditions persist ahead of the weekend. PI Coin experienced a sharp 23% decline within hours, with volume indicators revealing increased selling pressure after a brief consolidation phase. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) for the 4-hour chart hit an oversold low of 15. 8 but has since rebounded to 26. 82, signaling heightened volatility. Technical resistance is noted around the 50- and 200-day exponential moving averages (EMA) near $0. 62 and $0. 68, respectively. Current market sentiment reflects a bearish outlook for PI coin this week. If bullish momentum returns, PI could retest resistance levels at $0. 60 and $0. 74, potentially rising toward $0. 89. Conversely, increased selling pressure may drive its price down to a critical support level near $0. 47. --- Global advertising spending has surpassed $1 trillion, with digital advertising—especially search and social media—expected to account for nearly 73% of total ad revenue this year. Leading platforms like Google, Meta, Amazon, and Alibaba together capture over half of this market. Ecommerce paid media teams face challenges managing vast amounts of data across multiple channels such as search, social, and out-of-home advertising. Fragmented reporting arises from varied attribution models and the use of diverse tools, causing only 32% of executives to feel they fully leverage their marketing data. This article explores key performance indicators (KPIs), platform attribution methods, business goals, and strategies for integrating data to assess paid media effectiveness. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Effective paid media reporting begins with selecting appropriate KPIs that align with business objectives. Metrics vary in purpose and scope and include short-, mid-, and long-term measures. Short-Term MetricsReturn on Ad Spend (ROAS): Revenue divided by ad spend, indicating campaign profitability but excluding factors like customer acquisition costs (CAC) and margins. Cost Per Acquisition (CPA): Average cost per sale or lead, useful for monitoring efficiency but lacking insight into revenue or customer value differences. Cost of Sale (CoS): Percentage of revenue spent on advertising, valuable for margin-sensitive businesses but may overlook unprofitable sales. Mid-Term MetricsCustomer Acquisition Cost (CAC): Total marketing and overhead costs per new customer, providing a holistic acquisition cost necessary for profitability analysis but less suited for channel-specific reporting. Marketing Efficiency Ratio (MER): Total revenue divided by total ad spend across all channels, simplifying multi-channel analysis but masking individual channel performance. Long-Term MetricsCustomer Lifetime Value (CLV): Estimated net revenue from a customer over time, essential in conjunction with CAC for retention strategies, though complex to calculate and maintain. A comprehensive approach combining these KPIs supports informed decision-making and performance evaluation. Understanding Platform AttributionAdvertising platforms apply different attribution models that affect reported performance. For example, Google Ads uses Data-Driven Attribution, crediting paid channels differently depending on integrations with tools like GA4. Meta Ads attributes 100% of a conversion within a seven-day click or one-day view window to itself, often inflating its reported impact. Platform metrics are useful for internal optimization but do not fully capture the incremental value of paid media. Interpreting these data points within the broader marketing strategy is crucial. Holistic Measurement ApproachesTo move beyond fragmented data, brands can use methods like Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) and Incrementality Testing. Marketing Mix Modeling: Statistical analysis of aggregated historical data that isolates each marketing channel’s effect on sales. MMM helps allocate budgets strategically without relying on user-level tracking, which suits privacy-compliant environments. Incrementality Testing: Controlled experiments comparing test and control groups to measure paid media’s true contribution to business outcomes, guiding spend decisions more reliably. Operational ConsiderationsAccurate ecommerce reporting also depends on factors such as product margins, average order value variability, shipping and return rates, discounting, stock availability, and pixel tracking quality. Ignoring these can lead to misleading data and poor optimization. Integrating Data for Informed ReportingNo single tool or metric fully explains paid media performance. Combining platform data with internal analytics and external modeling provides a clearer picture. Begin by defining solid KPIs that incorporate operational realities, then select trusted models to reveal overall impact. Third-party attribution tools can blend data, but they still require clean KPIs and reliable tracking. BI tools like Looker Studio, Tableau, and Datorama enable flexible reporting, often using multiple dashboards to accommodate different data views. Prioritizing comprehensive, multifaceted reporting connects media spend to profit and supports strategic growth in ecommerce. --- An anonymous LastPass user has filed a lawsuit seeking damages after losing $200,000 in Ethereum due to a 2022 security breach. The plaintiff claims LastPass failed to notify him about the hack, which exposed his seed phrase stored on the platform. The hackers used the compromised seed phrase to regenerate the victim's Ethereum wallet and withdraw all funds. LastPass experienced a significant data breach in late 2022, which led to $4. 4 million being stolen from 25 users in 2023. This case marks one of the first legal actions stemming from that incident. The lawsuit, filed in Washington state by a San Diego-based consumer law firm, keeps the victim's identity confidential. It alleges that LastPass did not inform the user of the breach, enabling the theft. However, experts note that storing seed phrases online is highly risky, as they cannot be changed once created. Notification delays may not have prevented the loss since the victim could have moved funds only by acting quickly after being informed. Despite the ongoing fallout, LastPass remains operational. The company may pursue a settlement to avoid prolonged litigation. Note: Readers are encouraged to verify information independently and consult professionals before making decisions based on this report. --- Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 launch features marquee titles like Mario Kart World, but for longtime fans, the highlight is the initial GameCube library. After over two decades, Nintendo is finally offering some of its cherished GameCube games on a modern console—many of which have not been officially available since their original release. However, only three GameCube titles are available at launch, marking the smallest initial lineup in the Switch Online classics offerings. While this slow rollout frustrates some players, it is a deliberate strategy Nintendo has employed since its early digital stores. Since introducing the Wii Shop, Nintendo has steadily and cautiously re-released legacy games rather than flooding its platforms with titles all at once. The Wii Shop, launched alongside the Wii, promised a vast archive of classic games, ultimately delivering over 400 by the console’s end. But at launch, it had fewer than a dozen first-party titles, focused primarily on NES games, with only Super Mario 64 available from the Nintendo 64 library. Other N64 games arrived months later. The same pattern continued with the Wii U, which began with just eight Virtual Console games. Compatibility issues meant Nintendo rebuilt its retro catalog for the system, gradually adding SNES, Game Boy Advance, DS, and Wii titles over time. Although Nintendo allowed owners to transfer Wii Virtual Console purchases to the Wii U and offered discounted upgrades, early lineups remained limited and slow to expand. On the Switch, Nintendo shifted from individual game sales to a subscription-based approach with Switch Online, which launched in 2018 over a year after the console’s release. Initially, only NES titles were available, with SNES, Game Boy, N64, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance libraries added incrementally over several years. This measured release serves several purposes. Nintendo uses classic games to fill release calendar gaps, keeping players engaged during less active periods. The subscription model also encourages users to try lesser-known titles alongside popular ones. Moreover, spacing out releases allows players to fully appreciate each game rather than viewing them as disposable entertainment amid today’s overcrowded gaming ecosystems. This approach is especially fitting for GameCube games, which often require extensive time investments similar to modern games. With many titles exceeding 20 hours to complete, the gradual rollout lets players savor these experiences without rushing. While waiting for favorite classics can be frustrating, Nintendo’s slow and intentional release schedule honors the depth of its back catalog. It ensures each new addition remains an event and gives users time to explore titles thoroughly. Unlike previous generations, the current platform provides a broad selection to enjoy while awaiting new favorites. --- Wyndham introduced a new multi-million dollar advertising campaign on Wednesday that promotes all 25 of its hotel brands alongside its loyalty program under a single tagline. Branded as "Where There's a Wyndham, There's a Way," this campaign marks a departure from the company's previous strategy of marketing individual brands like Super 8 and La Quinta separately. It reflects Wyndham's adaptation to evolving marketing approaches amid AI-driven changes in travel search. Marissa Yoss, vice president of brand marketing and paid media, stated that this campaign will act as a long-term foundation for Wyndham’s consumer messaging rather than a one-off effort. The campaign highlights "grounded storytelling" instead of traditional polished travel visuals. For example, one advertisement depicts a young aunt rushing to attend her niece’s graduation and then assisting her, illustrating authentic travel experiences. --- Xbox's recent move to $80 USD for new game releases was spotlighted at the Xbox Games Showcase, with The Outer Worlds 2 becoming the first Xbox Game Studios title at this price point. For Canadian gamers, however, the cost is significantly higher. The Outer Worlds 2 is priced at $100 CAD for the standard edition and $130 CAD for the Premium Edition before taxes. With provincial and federal taxes reaching up to 15%, the final price can soar to approximately $115 and $150 CAD respectively. These increases come amid broader price hikes for AAA games, exemplified by upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 titles like Super Mario Kart World and Super Mario Party Jamboree, priced at $110 and $115 CAD before tax. Industry observers note that Xbox’s pricing strategy may also encourage adoption of its Game Pass subscription service as an alternative to purchasing expensive individual titles. Despite exchange rates somewhat mitigating these costs when converted to USD or GBP, many gamers feel the rising prices are outpacing average wage growth, risking pricing out new players from AAA titles. Brandon Adler, director of The Outer Worlds 2, clarified that pricing was set by Xbox, expressing a desire for broader accessibility. Meanwhile, discussions continue about the impact of these changes on gamers worldwide. How are game prices affecting your purchasing decisions? Share your thoughts below. --- GameStop has raised its convertible senior notes offering to $2. 25 billion from an initial $1. 75 billion, the video game retailer announced in a press release Thursday. The new bonds, which bear no interest, carry a conversion price of about $28. 91 per share—a 32. 5% premium over the company’s average stock price Thursday afternoon. This price is subject to change under certain conditions, according to the release. This marks the second convertible bond raise by GameStop following a $1. 5 billion offering in April. Despite this, the company’s shares dropped 24% over the week, closing at $22. 14 on Friday, down from around $28. 36 when GameStop first disclosed plans to buy Bitcoin in late March. Last month, GameStop acquired 4,710 Bitcoin. However, CEO Ryan Cohen recently stated the company will not announce future Bitcoin purchases or follow other firms' strategies in accumulating the leading cryptocurrency. The funds from the bond offering are intended for general corporate purposes, including investments aligning with GameStop’s Investment Policy and potential acquisitions. Beyond gaming, GameStop has sought to diversify its business. It shut down its NFT marketplace early last year and is now focusing on trading cards, which accounted for 29% of first-quarter sales. Cohen described trading cards as a natural extension of GameStop’s heritage, covering sports, Pokémon, and collectibles. --- Reddit has released a report highlighting its expanding role in shaping consumer purchase behavior. Users increasingly rely on Reddit conversations to make informed decisions, valuing the platform's real-world product experiences shared by engaged subreddit communities. The platform’s crowd-sourced upvote system promotes the most helpful responses, boosting their visibility. This influence is underscored by Google's partnership with Reddit, granting access to Reddit data for search and AI applications. "In a world of expanding options, decreasing trust in influencers and heightened economic pressure, people are becoming more intentional about their buying choices. They turn to Reddit communities and conversations throughout their shopping journeys to vet their options and make faster, better decisions. In addition, posts on Reddit remain useful and provide value weeks, months, or even years later. "Key findings from Reddit's report include:88% of users consult Reddit to assist with purchase decisions. Reddit search results often rank highly on Google, with many users specifically adding "Reddit" to their queries for detailed insights. More than half (57%) of Reddit posts mentioning brands or products continue to receive views for over a year. For brands, active participation on Reddit can foster positive engagement. Reddit notes that:One organic brand post per week is linked to a 3. 5% increase in positive user posts about that brand. Three organic brand comments per week on user posts, combined with paid media, correlate with a 2. 2% rise in positive mentions. Furthermore, Reddit advertising contributes to broader marketing success. A media mix modeling analysis with TransUnion showed Reddit ads delivered an average return on ad spend (ROAS) of $6. 94 for tech advertisers. In conclusion, Reddit is becoming a significant platform for product discovery. Brands can benefit from engaging authentically within communities and leveraging Reddit ads to amplify their message. The platform's full marketing impact report and the Reddit Trends tool offer more insights for businesses considering their presence on Reddit. --- ---