Here’s What Happened in Crypto Today (2024)

If you're looking to stay in the loop about the latest happenings in the world of cryptocurrency, you've come to the right place.

In this comprehensive article, we'll delve into the most recent developments that have been shaping the crypto landscape.

From legal battles and market surges to legislative standstills and the rise of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), we've got you covered. Let's explore the exciting and ever-evolving world of cryptocurrency.

Binance and CZ's Legal Battle with the CFTC

In the crypto realm, few names are as prominent as Binance and its CEO, Changpeng "CZ" Zhao.

However, recently, they've been making headlines not for their market moves but for their legal tussle with the United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

On March 23, 2023, the CFTC filed a lawsuit against Binance, alleging that the exchange failed to register with the regulator, thereby violating derivatives trading rules.

Binance and CZ, in response, have made a bold move to dismiss this lawsuit. Their filing, dated October 23, argues that the CFTC's lawsuit exceeds its jurisdiction, particularly in matters related to derivatives products.

Essentially, Binance and CZ are contending that if the CFTC's arguments are accepted, it would grant the agency sweeping powers to regulate cryptocurrency activities associated with derivatives products globally.

In their filing, they make a clear statement: "Congress did not make the CFTC the world’s derivatives police, and the Court should reject the agency’s effort to expand its territorial reach beyond what is permitted by the law."

This legal battle is a significant one, with potential ramifications for the regulation of cryptocurrency worldwide.

Bitcoin Surges Past $35,000 Mark

Bitcoin, often considered the bellwether of the crypto market, recently achieved a significant milestone.

On October 23, 2023, the price of Bitcoin briefly touched the $35,000 mark, a level it hadn't seen since May 2022. This remarkable surge marked a staggering gain in just 24 hours.

The sudden uptick in Bitcoin's price was nothing short of impressive. It surged more than 10%, moving from $31,000 to over $34,000 in a matter of hours. And that wasn't the end of it.

Less than two hours after crossing the $34,000 threshold, Bitcoin reached an even higher point, hitting $35,300, according to data from TradingView. As of the latest update, Bitcoin is trading at $34,550.

This price rally was not an isolated event. It occurred amidst renewed enthusiasm for the potential approval of spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and a substantial uptick in trading volumes across various spot markets.

One particularly significant development was the listing of the iShares spot Bitcoin ETF proposed by BlackRock on the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC).

This listing suggests the possibility of approval by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a move that could have a profound impact on the cryptocurrency market.

Crypto Legislation Stalls Amidst House Speaker Vacuum

While the crypto market is experiencing exciting dynamics, the legislative front is facing a standstill in the United States. Key pieces of crypto legislation are currently in limbo due to the absence of a new House speaker.

In the world of politics, especially in the U.S., the role of the House speaker is crucial in pushing bills through the legislative process. Without a House speaker.

bills passed by the Financial Services Committee, including the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act, the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act.

the Clarity for Payment Stablecoins Act, and the Keep Your Coins Act, have no clear path forward. These bills remain on hold, awaiting the appointment of a new House speaker.

The speaker race has seen pro-crypto candidates vying for the position. Notably, Tom Emmer is considered the frontrunner, although the political landscape is far from certain, and his ascension to the role is not guaranteed.

In contrast to the pro-crypto candidates, there is a growing contingent of lawmakers seeking to "curtail illicit crypto activity."

This perspective is endorsed by Senator Elizabeth Warren and more than 100 other representatives, reflecting the ongoing debate and diversity of views within the legislative sphere.

In conclusion, the crypto world is as dynamic and multifaceted as ever. Legal battles, price surges, and legislative standstills all contribute to the complex tapestry of the cryptocurrency landscape. Stay tuned for more updates as the crypto saga unfolds.

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.