Bitcoin ETF Issuers Launch Google Marketing Campaigns Following Changes to Rules on Acceptable Ads

According to a report from the Financial Times, BlackRock, Grayscale, Bitwise, Invesco, and Fidelity already have live Bitcoin ETF ads running on Google.

BlackRock, Grayscale, Invesco and several others now have Bitcoin ETF ads running on Google after rule changes went into effect last week.

Several asset managers have started advertising campaigns for their spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as Google changes marketing rules on cryptocurrency products.

Bitcoin ETF Issuers Already Advertising on Google

Google’s new rules went into effect on January 29. Under the regulations, advertisers who offer “cryptocurrency coin trusts” and target recipients in the United States can advertise their products and services as long as they meet Google’s requirements.

Google announced changes to its policy on cryptocurrencies and related products last December. The announcement notes that the advertising giant will issue a warning at least seven days before suspending any account that violates the rules.

Additionally, the ad includes non-exhaustive lists of dos and don’ts, including a specification that all ads must comply with local laws and regulations in the target audience’s region or country. It states that cryptocurrency coin trusts that “allow investors to trade shares in trusts that hold large amounts of digital currency” must apply for certification.

Moreover, the advertiser must be an authorized provider. Interestingly, the rules prohibit advertisements for initial coin offerings (ICOs), initial DEX offerings, DeFi trading protocols, or advertisements that encourage the purchase, sale, or trading of cryptocurrencies or related products. All broadcasters seem to compete in their efforts to draw attention to themselves and not to others.

This competition began before the initial approval by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) when the price wars began. The filings reveal that, at 0.20 percent, Bitwise Bitcoin ETP Trust (NYSE: BITB) has the lowest fee. It also provides a waiver that lasts six months, or until the fund reaches $1 billion. While several others have different exemption details, VanEck Bitcoin Trust (CBOE:HODL) has none.

Last month, via X (formerly Tweeter), James Seyffart, Research analyst within Bloomberg Intelligence, posted the following:

“Updated Fee war for the Bitcoin ETF Race. Was missing Wisdomtree’s waiver that was added this morning! Looking for potential approvals tomorrow and potential listings on Thursday.”

At the moment, the advertising investment of each issuer is uncertain since Google does not publish these figures. According to Google, advertisers bid to place ads through auction.

Meta Platforms Will Follow Suit

Meta Platforms is reportedly currently reviewing its advertising policies to allow issuers to promote spot Bitcoin ETFs in the US. In an X post, ETF Store President Nate Geraci hinted that Facebook and Instagram will likely join Google in accepting ads.

On January 10, the SEC approved 11 Bitcoin spot ETFs after rejecting all proposals for more than a decade. The Commission finally gave the green light sometime after losing a court case to Grayscale Investments. The asset manager had sued the SEC for rejecting its application, accusing the SEC of applying the laws arbitrarily. The court ruled in favor of Grayscale, which many observers concluded was a big indicator that approval was just a matter of time.

The products have posted healthy numbers, with more than $7 billion in receipts. Unfortunately, capital outflows from the Grayscale ETF have already exceeded $5 billion. At the end of January, net inflows into all active ETFs amounted to $1.5 billion.

By Audy Castaneda

“If You Want to Invest in Cryptocurrencies, Find Out How Blockchain Works”: Pablo Gil, Trader and Economist

The trader and economist Pablo Gil suggested cryptocurrency users study the projects behind the issuance of cryptoassets. “If you buy with the argument that a cryptocurrency goes up, the day it goes down significantly, you will be one of those who sell,” said the trader and economist, adding that “you should look for an exchange in your language and regulated, with 24/7 attention to the client, as is the case of Bit2Me.”

In an interview with a media outlet, the trader and economist, Pablo Gil, explained that, regardless of what is studied, people have the obligation to understand “what they are getting into.” The trader suggested to those interested in investing in cryptocurrencies, “first find out what blockchain really is.”

The renowned trader and economist pointed out that the bases for a good trading education begin with prior information before investing in any crypto asset. He invited cryptocurrency enthusiasts to learn about the projects behind digital assets and access the training that exists on the web.

Pablo Gil: “It is Recommended to Study the Projects behind Cryptocurrencies”

For Pablo Gil, studying “is not educating yourself”, but studying continuously with an inquisitive mind, since this will allow for better understanding of how difficult things can be. He admitted that with cryptocurrencies it is a similar process, where it is necessary to have the concern to “understand better” and have a solid foundation.

Gil highlighted that the “attitude of learning every day is what matters,” more than what a person studies. He recalled that knowledge about cryptocurrencies can be acquired on sites such as Bit2Me, masterminds, or on the Internet. He recommended not being “one more” of those who follow the trend, or those who only hope for a return.

The expert shared his own personal experience in the following terms:

“When the futures market was going to be launched in Spain, I discovered that technical analysis had a lot of prestige in the United States and in 2000 the opportunity arose to be a partner with BBVA and set up the first Hedge Fund with Spanish regulation. We started with 40 million dollars and grew to more than 500 million dollars. Since 2013 I discovered the retail world.”

Cryptocurrency trading has been on the rise, even before the approval of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs). BeInCrypto reported that trading volumes on centralized exchanges increased 10.4% from December 2023 to a 12-month high of more than $800 billion in January.

What Should a Beginner Do Before They Decide to Invest in Cryptocurrencies?

According to Gil, “you have to seek the greatest possible security, knowing that it is legal, compliance, and the commitment that the site where you open your account makes to protect you as a client. There is a harmful current on the Internet, in trading where people think that money is lost because the broker is very expensive.”

The expert pointed out that “If you lose money in the market, it is not because the commission is a little more expensive than that of another broker, you lose money because you do not know how to trade and you do not know how to invest, you have not been trained. They maintain that it may be very cheap, even if the company is in Cyprus or in a tax haven. The day you want to claim your money, they will not answer the phone.”

In Gil’s view, when investors understand that the conditions themselves are not so relevant to the final result, there is no doubt that they have to look for a place that is trustworthy and will not scam them, for example, regulated brokers in Spain.

By Leonardo Perez

New Cryptocurrency Priced at $0.1 Wins Favor with SOL and SHIB Bulls, Poised for a 2000% Breakout in 2024

A new project, Retik Finance, is attracting the attention of experienced investors and enthusiasts alike.

Retik Finance, priced at $0.1, has become a focal point for Solana and Shiba Inu bulls, with rumors in the crypto community suggesting the potential for a 2000% breakout in 2024.

The Rise of Retik Finance

Retik Finance’s journey began with noticeable pre-sale success, raising $1 million in just nine days and approaching the $6 million mark in a month. Since then, the project has continued to garner strong community support, evident in its impressive pre-sale funding totals exceeding $18.7 million. This backing has solidified Retik Finance’s financial foundation and also positioned it as a player to watch in the decentralized finance (DeFi) space.

Retik Finance places great importance on security and has undergone a thorough examination by Certik, a distinguished blockchain security company. By successfully completing a comprehensive audit, Retik Finance received validation of the strong security and reliability of its smart contracts. This audit serves as a crucial factor in instilling confidence among users and investors regarding the integrity of the project.

Why Solana and Shiba Inu Bulls Are Taking Notice

Explosive growth potential. The appeal of Retik Finance lies in its price of $0.1, which creates significant appeal for investors looking for tokens with high growth potential. Solana and Shiba Inu bulls, known for their strategic investment approaches, view Retik Finance as a gem with potential for a 2000% breakout in 2024. The relatively low entry point increases the appeal of Retik Finance for those looking capitalize important profits.

DeFi innovation and adaptability. Solana and Shiba Inu bulls are recognizing Retik Finance’s focus on DeFi innovation and its ability to adapt to the changing landscape of decentralized finance. The introduction of advanced features aligns with the broader industry trend toward sophisticated DeFi solutions. Investors are attracted to projects that demonstrate adaptability and offer innovative solutions, and Retik Finance appears to tick these boxes.

Strategic Positioning in the Market. Retik Finance’s strategic change, by selling Polygon for RETIK, positions it uniquely in the market. Bulls from the Solana and Shiba Inu camps are recognizing the project’s efforts to redefine global transactions and expand their utility. Strategic moves and a clear vision contribute to Retik Finance’s perceived potential to make a significant impact in the crypto space.

2000% Breakout Projection Assessment

Driving pre-sale success. The strong momentum generated by Retik Finance’s pre-sale success is a key factor fueling the optimistic projection of a 2000% breakout. The enthusiastic community response and ongoing initiatives, such as the 10-stage pre-sale structure and $333,000 giveaway, create anticipation and excitement, potentially driving greater demand.

Adoption of innovative features. The adoption of innovative features within the Retik Finance ecosystem positions it as a project with potential for widespread adoption. As users engage with features like futuristic DeFi debit cards and AI-powered P2P lending, the utility and appeal of Retik Finance can contribute to its great potential.

Market dynamics and investor sentiment. Market dynamics and investor sentiment play a crucial role in predicting the future trajectory of a cryptocurrency. The attention Retik Finance is receiving from Solana and Shiba Inu bulls suggests favorable sentiment and belief in the project’s potential. If this sentiment continues, it could contribute to the projected breakout.

The convergence of pre-sale success, innovative traits, strategic positioning and support from the Solana and Shiba Inu bulls has created a narrative of potential explosive growth. However, it is always best to conduct some serious research before making investment decisions.

By Audy Castaneda

Bitcoin Maximalist Nayib Bukele is Reelected in a Landslide as President of El Salvador

This Sunday, the votes in El Salvador allowed Nayib Bukele to consolidate power and guarantee the continuity of the Bitcoin project. Despite criticism, Bukele has won the sympathy of millions of Salvadorans and foreigners alike. In the midst of the bull market, BTC has not yet shown any further reaction to the news.

Nayib Bukele won the presidential elections in El Salvador. As many expected, Bukele has been re-elected without major problems, becoming president of the Republic for the second consecutive time.

Despite criticism, Bukele has won the sympathy of millions of Salvadorans and foreigners alike. Known in the financial and technological world for his peculiar and transcendental commitment to Bitcoin in 2021. The Salvadoran president will have five more years to advance the adoption of this cryptocurrency in the country. The 42-year-old candidate of the Nuevas Ideas party is entrenched in power despite the fact that the national constitution places limitations on re-election.

Nayib Bukele Sweeps the Presidential Elections in El Salvador

During election day, Nayib Bukele’s popularity was evident, eclipsing his opponents with a considerable margin of victory. According to the first data, the Bitcoin maximalist would have surpassed the other opposition parties by a more than overwhelming difference, with a percentage of votes ranging between 85% and 87%. This margin is large enough to avoid a second round. In the Central American country, the runoff takes place if none of the candidates exceeds 50%.

Through his social network X (formerly Twitter), Nayib Bukele announced his victory as follows:

“According to our numbers, we have won the presidential election with more than 85% of the votes and a minimum of 58 of 60 deputies in the Assembly. The record in the entire democratic history of the world. See you at 9pm in front of the National Palace. God bless El Salvador.”

Nayib Bukele’s Triumph Brings 5 ​​More Years of Hope for Bitcoiners in El Salvador

Since announcing the historic decision to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender in September 2021, El Salvador has become a focal point for the global crypto community. Bukele has maintained a firm commitment to this vision, defending the integration of Bitcoin into the economy and daily lives of Salvadorans.

Despite criticism and challenges, such as market volatility and resistance from certain sectors, Bukele has persisted in his conviction that Bitcoin can provide economic and financial opportunities to Salvadoran citizens, especially those who lack access to traditional banking services.

The Two Faces of El Salvador’s Nuevas Ideas

Although the support of the crypto community for the Salvadoran president is as strong as the support of the population, not everything is rosy. The country under the rule of Nuevas Ideas presents two faces to the world. The first is that of an advanced administration widely committed to new technologies and ambitious futuristic projects with a vision of youth. Meanwhile, the other side is that of a totalitarian regime that is quickly projecting itself as a one-party system.

According to human rights agencies, thousands of people were arbitrarily imprisoned and the number of deaths due to torture is increasing alarmingly. Although the war against gangs totally improved internal security, the imprisonment of innocents could be dramatic.

The political environment internally is much more precarious, with a notable increase in retaliation against detractors. Such negative aspects of the Bukele government could have little beneficial weight for Bitcoin. The impartial nature of cryptocurrency could be tainted by being a embellisher for an alleged authoritarian state.

By Leonardo Perez

Crypto Classrooms: US Authorities Charge School Staff in Illegal Campus Mining Scandal

The case occurs at a time when there is increased scrutiny of crypto mining’s energy consumption.

The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged two senior staff members of the Patterson Joint Unified School District for allegedly operating a cryptocurrency mining operation on the campuses of the district’s 10 schools, using school resources and driving up electricity costs.

In a recent statement, the DOJ claimed that Patterson Joint Unified School District Assistant Superintendent and Chief Business Officer Jeffrey Menge, along with the school district’s IT Director, Eric Drabert, worked together to operate a cryptocurrency mining farm, pocketing the profits.

However, the statement did not provide clarity on how many schools in the district were used for the cryptocurrency mining operation, which comprises 10 schools serving about 6,200 students. Furthermore, the type of cryptocurrency mined was not revealed.

Some of the most commonly mined cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Monero, Ravencoin, and Dogecoin. According to recent data from CoinGecko, mining a single Bitcoin as an individual miner requires approximately 266,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity. This would take approximately seven years, with a monthly electricity consumption of 143 kWh.

Crypto: Energy Concerns and Global Scrutiny

The case comes amid the US energy regulator’s recent crackdown on cryptocurrency miners as part of an initiative to reduce energy waste in the nation. The US Department of Energy (DOE) recently required mandatory reporting on energy use by crypto miners for six months, citing concerns about rising Bitcoin prices and an influx of mining activity.

Additionally, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) launched a survey to measure the electricity usage of local crypto mining companies.

This is not just a concern within the United States, as regulators around the world are making efforts to control excessive electricity consumption. For example, Indonesian authorities shutting down illegal Bitcoin mining operations in December 2023.

The DOE reporting mandate aims to increase transparency and accountability within of the crypto mining industry. This data can inform policy decisions and ensure responsible management of resources, mitigating potential environmental and financial damage.

Further Investigation Needed

While the Department of Justice alleges that Menge embezzled between $1 million and $1.5 million and Drabert stole between $250,000 and $300,000, further investigation is crucial to fully understand the details and scope of their alleged activities.

The charges against Menge and Drabert involve billing manipulation within the school district through a company controlled by Menge called CenCal Tech. Using a fictitious executive named Frank Barnes, the duo conducted “fraudulent transactions totaling more than $1.2 million” by engaging in practices such as double billing, overbilling, and billing for items that CenCal Tech never provided to the school district.

According to a statement, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey A. Spivak is prosecuting the case, while the FBI is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of Investigation. District. U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley will preside over sentencing on May 30, 2024.

Each defendant faces a maximum statutory sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. However, the court will be free to determine actual sentences after taking into account legal requirements and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

This case highlights broader ethical and environmental issues surrounding cryptocurrency mining. While the technology offers potential benefits, concerns about energy consumption, the possibility of illegal activities, and the potential misuse of public resources require careful consideration and responsible regulation.

By Audy Castaneda

Miners’ BTC Reserves Plummet, and other Top News in the Bitcoin Mining Industry

A new week closes for the Bitcoin mining industry with important events, as the sector approaches the fourth Bitcoin halving in April this year.

News about Bitcoin mining is abundant and most of it has to do with the progress of the sector. The expansion of major mining companies becomes a topic of great debates for the cryptocurrency community. These firms increasingly establish themselves as absolute queens of the industry and some experts fear monopolistic or oligopolistic concentration.

Added to the positive news are those in which the business is not looking very good, at least within the US, where complaints in some states are becoming more and more frequent. Likewise, the government authorities of the North American country are increasing pressure again.

Miners’ BTC Reserves Plummet

This week, the Bitcoin mining industry experienced one of the most worrying news, related to digital miners’ BTC reserves, which are at a 3-year low, according to CryptoQuant. For analysts, this could have bearish consequences for the price of the largest digital currency, which is particularly worrying, considering that the halving is just around the corner.

The statistics firm highlighted that, mid-week, miners’ reserves lost a total of 14,000 bitcoins. If a similar trend continues in the coming weeks, the expected rally would be compromised.

US Government Seeks New Approach to Digital Mining

The United States authorities seem once again interested in approaching the Bitcoin mining industry. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) is preparing to collect information from companies, which ranges from consumption, capacity and others.

Although this agency declares itself impartial, its statistics could help the authorities to resume the attack on the sector. In the North American country, the digital mining area is highly politicized. On the one hand, Republicans defend the industry tooth and nail, while Democrats want to annul it. Hence, within the crypto community it is suspected that the government seeks to exercise control to force political benefits from its rivals.

Hut 8 Will Manage Celsius Farms for 4 Years

Recently, it was learned that Celsius signed a four-year agreement with mining company Hut 8. The contract would see Hut 8 manage Celsius’ mining assets (equipment and farms) for a period of four years. With this, the mining firm could receive approximate profits of $100 million, as detailed in the contract they announced this week.

The agreement seeks to boost the Ionic initiative, which was created by Celsius after receiving approval from the bankruptcy commissioner. It is worth mentioning that the agreement includes both the management of Ionic’s four sites and the expansion of the firm.

Small Texas Towns Report Injuries Related to Digital Mining

Recently, a small town in the state of Texas, United States, is a victim of the voracity of companies dedicated to the mining business.

As TIME reports, residents of small towns like Granbury, TX and Kearney reported noise-related injuries. The company in charge of operations in the areas recently announced that it had reached an agreement to remove some facilities.

Core Scientific Mined $812 Million in BTC in 2023

Last year, Mining company Core Scientific made cryptocurrency revenue equivalent to $812 million. The company managed to get out of all its commitments and also from bankruptcy. The mining giant is now listed on the stock market again and is in full expansion awaiting the April halving.

By Leonardo Perez