Brazilian lawmakers file bill to fully repeal online gambling laws with fines up to $385M; Venezuelan economist proposes a USD-pegged stablecoin to bypass currency controls; Latam becomes a safe haven amid Middle East conflict and energy crisis.
Starkware CPO Avihu Levy has introduced QSB, a scheme designed to make Bitcoin transactions quantum-safe using existing script rules, without soft forks or new opcodes, though deployment hurdles remain significant.
This week in Latam: Brazil's ruling party files bill to ban online gambling entirely with fines up to $385M; Venezuela economist proposes a national USD stablecoin to bypass currency controls; Latam emerges as investment safe haven amid Middle East conflict.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued its first stablecoin issuer licences to HSBC and a consortium led by Standard Chartered, including Animoca Brands and HKT. HSBC plans to launch a HKD-pegged stablecoin in H2 2026. The regime requires full reserves, minimum capital of $3.19M, one-day redemption, and prohibits interest payments.
PayPal announces PYUSD, a fully backed stablecoin issued by Paxos, marking the first major financial firm to enter the stablecoin space. CEO Dan Schulman envisions PYUSD as part of the global payment infrastructure, initially supporting crypto trades and in-app payments, with future plans for cross-border remittances.
Hong Kong’s monetary authority has awarded its first two stablecoin licences to HSBC and a Standard Chartered-led group. HSBC plans to launch a HKD-pegged stablecoin in H2 2026 via its Payme wallet. Strict rules mandate full reserves, $3.19 million minimum capital, one-day redemption, and no interest on holdings.
ShibaDino has announced two new platforms, detailed its NFT distribution model, and outlined future plans including exchange listings, a mobile game, and a dedicated blockchain as it seeks to expand beyond a typical memecoin narrative.
Boston Blockchain Week 2025 will run from Sept. 9 to 13 across Greater Boston, bringing together 500+ participants, 100+ speakers, and a $44,000 startup pitch competition centered on blockchain, AI, and digital infrastructure.
