Norway Hits Pause on Digital Currency Plans as Doubts Grow

TL;DR: The Central Bank of Norway concluded that there is no need to introduce a CBDC at this time. The decision is based on the fact that the Nordic country’s current payment system is “efficient and secure.” Norway will continue researching tokenization and monitoring CBDC development in the European Union.
Paxful Admits Guilt: Platform Accused of Enabling Crime and Dodging AML Rules

TL;DR: Paxful pleaded guilty to three criminal counts, including violating the Travel Act and operating without a money transmitting license. The platform facilitated crimes such as illegal prostitution, fraud, and sanctions evasion, earning $29 million in fees. The $112.
Japan Reclassifies Crypto as Securities

TL;DR Japan confirms a structural shift by moving digital assets under securities law, redefining how platforms operate and how risks are evaluated. The FSA promotes tighter transparency standards for token sales and listings, including audits and standardized disclosures. The crypto sector expects broader institutional participation and a rulebook that supports projects with real liquidity.
U.S. Congress accelerates debate on crypto tax reform ahead of August 2026

TL;DR US Congress aims to pass a new digital asset tax bill by August 2026. Debate centers on treating crypto as property versus currency for small payments. The IRS is increasing enforcement ahead of new 1099-DA reporting requirements. The U.S. crypto tax debate enters a new phase as Rep.
PayPal Exec Joins Securitize as Firm Says U.S. Is Ready for Tokenized Stocks

Securitize has strengthened its legal leadership with the hiring of Jerome Roche, the former PayPal strategist who helped the firm’s foray into blockchain and oversaw the launch of its stablecoin. Roche joins Securitize as Chief Legal Strategist, sending a clear signal to the market: tokenized ownership is a domestic business opportunity.
Massive Liquidation Risk in Crypto Market: Over $10B in Long Positions at Stake

TL;DR Liquidation heat‑map data shows more than $10 billion in long crypto positions may be vulnerable if a price correction hits. For Bitcoin (BTC) alone over $5.6 billion in long positions could be liquidated; similar pressure exists on Ethereum (ETH) for over $5 billion — combined risk exceeds $10 billion.
Binance Establishes Oversight Hub in Abu Dhabi Ahead of 2026 Rollout

Binance established an oversight hub in Abu Dhabi and received full authorization from ADGM to operate its platform under a top-tier regulatory framework. Regulated services are set to begin on January 5, 2026.
Major European Crypto Scam Network Dismantled After Years-Long Investigation

TL;DR European authorities uncover a major cross-border crypto investment fraud. The scam used fake trading platforms and aggressive sales tactics. Police conducted raids in Spain, Cyprus, and Germany, making arrests. European law enforcement agencies report a large crypto investment fraud network that drained funds from retail investors across several countries.
Global Framework Needed: IMF Pushes for Safe Stablecoin Adoption

TL;DR The IMF calls for a global framework that supports safe and transparent stablecoin adoption as these assets gain influence in global payments. Stablecoins already improve cross-border transfers and expand financial access in regions with limited banking services.
U.S. Greenlights First Spot Crypto Trading on Regulated Exchanges

TL;DR: U.S. regulators approved the first spot crypto trading on federally supervised exchanges, placing digital assets under the same framework as futures and options. The move introduces customer protections, transparent settlement standards, and institutional grade infrastructure that could attract conservative retail and large financial players.