Weekly Crypto Preview: Starknet Launches STRK Staking, HashKey Unveils HSK Token

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The crypto landscape is set for a dynamic week packed with major network upgrades, token launches, and pivotal governance decisions. From Layer 2 innovations to ecosystem expansions and critical token unlocks, the blockchain space is gearing up for significant developments across multiple platforms. This preview breaks down the most impactful events scheduled between November 25 and December 1, 2024, offering clarity on what to expect and why it matters.

Key Highlights This Week

Core Keywords: Starknet, STRK staking, HashKey HSK, WalletConnect WCT, Zircuit ZRC, token unlock, Layer 2 blockchain

November 25: Tax Reforms, Wallet Upgrades & Token Activation

Regulatory Shift: South Korea’s Crypto Tax Update

South Korea is advancing its crypto taxation framework with a revised bill set for committee review on November 25. The proposed policy introduces a 20% capital gains tax on crypto earnings (22% including local taxes), originally delayed twice due to industry pushback. Now scheduled for implementation in early 2025, the updated draft raises the tax-free threshold from 2.5 million to 50 million KRW (~$35,900 USD)—a move expected to shield most retail investors from liability.

Additionally, the bill allows taxpayers to estimate purchase costs based on a percentage of sale value when exact records aren’t available, easing compliance burdens. The legislation will proceed to full parliamentary debate if approved by the tax subcommittee.

👉 Discover how global regulations are shaping crypto investment strategies.

Coinbase Ends Salary Deposit Feature

Coinbase is sunsetting its direct salary deposit service on November 25. While users can no longer receive wages in crypto through this feature, the exchange hints at a more robust solution in development: an upcoming Coinbase Wallet direct deposit integration. This next-generation tool aims to deepen the connection between traditional finance and on-chain activity, enabling seamless crypto payroll experiences in the near future.

ZRC Token Goes Live on Zircuit

Zircuit’s native token **$ZRC** becomes freely transferable on November 25, marking a milestone for the emerging Layer 3 ecosystem built on EigenLayer. With over **342,000 on-chain wallet users** and backing from top-tier investors like Binance Labs and Pantera Capital, Zircuit has already launched a $2 billion liquidity hub and distributed airdrops to more than 200,000 users.

An upcoming product launch is also teased, suggesting further expansion of its modular architecture.

Governance Moves: Jupiter & Lista DAO

Jupiter launches its first Jupuary voting event on November 25, seeking a 70% approval threshold. Failure to meet this target will trigger repeated voting cycles until consensus is reached—a mechanism designed to ensure strong community alignment.

Meanwhile, Lista DAO is finalizing a proposal to introduce a Pegged Stable Module (PSM) and lisUSD Savings Rate (LSR). If passed, the PSM will initially support USDT with a 5 million lisUSD cap, expanding later to include FDUSD and USDC. The LSR offers yield tied to borrowing demand, incentivizing stablecoin deposits while maintaining peg stability.

November 26: Major Network Launches & Token Listings

Starknet Activates STRK Staking

One of the week’s most anticipated events is the mainnet launch of STRK staking on Starknet. After extensive testing on Sepolia, users can now participate in network security and earn rewards by either:

Both roles are subject to a 21-day unstaking period, promoting long-term commitment and network stability. This upgrade strengthens Starknet’s decentralized governance model and enhances its position as a leading Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solution.

👉 Learn how staking can boost your digital asset returns securely.

HashKey Launches HSK Token

HashKey Group officially debuts its ecosystem token HSK on November 26 via HashKey Global. Designed as the foundational utility token across all HashKey services, HSK will also serve as the native gas token for HashKey Chain, an upcoming Layer 2 blockchain.

This dual role positions HSK as a critical driver of long-term ecosystem growth, enabling transaction fees, governance participation, and incentivized engagement within the broader Web3 infrastructure.

WalletConnect Rolls Out WCT Rewards

Web3 communication protocol WalletConnect enables WCT token claiming and staking starting November 26. This marks a major step toward decentralized interoperability, rewarding early adopters and active contributors who helped scale cross-app connectivity across dApps and wallets.

Side Protocol Opens Airdrop Registration

Bitcoin-based financial layer Side Protocol begins its airdrop registration on November 26 at 18:00 UTC+8. A total of 100 million SIDE tokens will be distributed across multiple categories:

Tokens will be released gradually following mainnet launch.

November 27–30: Unlocks, Delistings & Regulatory Milestones

Significant Token Unlocks

Multiple projects face notable unlocks this week:

Such unlocks often influence price volatility, especially when large percentages enter circulation.

Exchange Adjustments

Binance removes several leveraged pairs—including C98/BTC and IDEX/BTC—on November 27. Users must close positions before the deadline to avoid forced liquidation.

Meanwhile, OKX halts withdrawals for six tokens—FITFI, GARI, XPR, AKITA, TAMA, WNCG—on November 30 following earlier trading pair delistings. Fairdesk Exchange also ceases all operations on that date due to regulatory pressures.

Looking Ahead: Developer Ecosystems & Financial Innovation

Telegram Growth Hub Application Deadline

The Telegram Growth Hub, backed by OKX Ventures and Folius Ventures with a $10M fund, closes applications on November 29. Focused on boosting TON blockchain adoption, the accelerator supports projects in three core areas:

Selected teams gain funding and mentorship over a two-month program.

Bitfinex Securities’ Tokenized U.S. Treasury Launch

Bitfinex Securities concludes its initial offering period on November 29 for USTBL, a tokenized U.S. Treasury bill issued under Salvadoran law. Built on Bitcoin’s Liquid Network, USTBL targets a 5.02% annual yield, backed by exposure to short-term U.S. government debt via iShares ETFs.

This marks one of the first regulated tokenized bond products leveraging Bitcoin’s Layer 2 infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the significance of STRK staking going live on Starknet?
A: It enables true decentralization by allowing users to secure the network and earn rewards. Validators and delegators now help maintain consensus on Starknet’s Ethereum Layer 2 platform.

Q: How can I participate in STRK staking?
A: You can either run a validator node (requires 20,000 STRK) or delegate your tokens to an existing validator. Both options lock funds for 21 days upon unstaking.

Q: When will HSK be tradable?
A: HSK launches on HashKey Global on November 26 and will be available for trading immediately upon listing.

Q: Why is WBTC being removed from Sky’s collateral system?
A: Concerns around centralized custody linked to BitGlobal and Tron’s founder Sun Yuchen have prompted Sky (formerly MakerDAO) to reduce exposure to WBTC for risk mitigation.

Q: What happens during a token unlock?
A: A portion of previously locked tokens becomes liquid and tradable. Large unlocks may increase sell pressure depending on recipient behavior.

Q: Is ZRC available on major exchanges yet?
A: While not yet listed widely, ZRC becomes transferable on November 25—often a precursor to exchange listings and broader market availability.

Stay informed and ahead of market-moving events with timely insights into blockchain upgrades, tokenomics shifts, and ecosystem innovations shaping the future of decentralized finance.