The cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with major exchanges expanding their offerings, influential firms making bold investments, and governments worldwide refining regulatory frameworks. This article explores the most impactful developments from December 21, 2024, including Binance’s launch of new USDT-margined perpetual contracts, Tether’s strategic $775 million investment in Rumble, cross-chain AI initiatives, and key regulatory milestones in Germany, Luxembourg, and the UK.
Binance Expands Derivatives Offerings with Four New Perpetual Contracts
In a move set to attract traders seeking high-leverage exposure, Binance has announced the launch of four new 1-75x USDT-margined perpetual contracts. These contracts provide advanced trading capabilities for emerging digital assets, enhancing market accessibility and liquidity.
The new contracts went live on December 21, 2024, at the following times (UTC+8):
- AIXBTUSDT: 02:30
- FARTCOINUSDT: 02:45
- KMNOUSDT: 03:00
- CGPTUSDT: 03:15
Notably, AIXBT (AI-XBT), FARTCOIN, and CGPT are already listed on Binance Alpha, the exchange’s platform for early-stage projects. This integration signals growing institutional interest in AI-driven and meme-based cryptocurrencies.
👉 Discover how top-tier exchanges are shaping the future of crypto trading.
Tether Makes Landmark $775 Million Strategic Investment in Rumble
Stablecoin giant Tether has cemented its influence beyond blockchain infrastructure by investing $775 million in Rumble, the video-sharing platform positioning itself as a free-speech alternative to mainstream media. The investment includes:
- $250 million in cash to support Rumble’s growth initiatives
- Acquisition of up to 70 million shares at $7.50 per share
- A total purchase of 103,333,333 shares by Tether
This strategic partnership aligns with Rumble’s recent move to allocate up to $20 million of its cash reserves to Bitcoin. Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino confirmed that over half of the company’s projected $10 billion net profit in 2024 will be reinvested—into ventures like this—and signaled continued investment momentum into 2025.
“We believe in supporting platforms that champion decentralization and open access,” said Ardoino.
Injective and Sonic Partner on Cross-Chain AI Agent Hub
The convergence of artificial intelligence and blockchain is accelerating with the announcement of the Smart Agent Hub, a cross-chain initiative between Injective (a Layer 1 blockchain) and Sonic (a Solana Virtual Machine-compatible chain). The platform will enable developers to deploy AI agents across ecosystems, leveraging tokenization and decentralized ownership models.
Key features include:
- Integration of SVM-based AI agents into Injective’s DeFi and derivatives markets
- Use of remote procedure calls (RPCs) for seamless deployment
- Monetization through native token incentives
A testnet is expected in Q1 2025, with full rollout phased over several months. This collaboration could redefine how autonomous agents operate in decentralized finance.
👉 Explore platforms enabling next-generation AI and blockchain integration.
Jump Trading Subsidiary Pays $123 Million SEC Settlement
Tai Mo Shan, a subsidiary of high-frequency trading firm Jump Trading, has agreed to pay approximately $123 million to settle charges with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The allegations include:
- Misleading investors about the stability of TerraUSD (UST), an algorithmic stablecoin
- Acting as an unregistered dealer in securities related to LUNA token sales
The settlement comprises:
- $73.5 million in disgorgement
- $12.9 million in pre-judgment interest
- $36.7 million in civil penalties
Notably, Tai Mo Shan neither admitted nor denied the findings but agreed to cease violations of securities registration and anti-fraud provisions.
Two U.S. Men Charged in $22 Million Crypto Fraud Scheme
The U.S. Department of Justice has indicted two men from Southern California for orchestrating a multi-project cryptocurrency fraud that allegedly defrauded investors of over $22 million. Between May 2021 and May 2024, Hay and Mayo promoted numerous NFT and digital asset projects—including Vault of Gems, Faceless, and Clout Coin—using false roadmaps and misleading claims.
Prosecutors allege the duo never intended to deliver promised features, instead siphoning funds from investor contributions. The case underscores ongoing enforcement efforts against deceptive practices in the Web3 space.
David Sacks Clarifies Role Amid Reports of Reduced Authority
Contradicting earlier reports from Fortune, David Sacks, designated as Trump’s “AI and Crypto Czar,” has denied any reduction in his responsibilities. In a public statement, Sacks asserted:
“Some legacy media reported tonight that my role has changed — this is completely false. I expect to spend half my time in Washington guiding policy and half in Silicon Valley.”
Earlier reports suggested his role had shifted from leadership to advisory status under Michael Kratsios, former CTO in the first Trump administration. Sacks’ clarification reaffirms his expected influence on future U.S. technology and crypto policy.
Global Regulatory Advancements: Germany, Luxembourg, and the UK
Germany Implements MiCAR-Compliant Legislation
Germany’s parliament has passed the Financial Market Digitization Act, enabling full implementation of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR). The law allows BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority) to issue MiCAR-compliant licenses to domestic crypto firms—previously delayed due to legislative bottlenecks.
Foreign firms already licensed elsewhere in the EU can now operate freely in Germany under passporting rules.
Luxembourg Simplifies Digital Fund Issuance with Blockchain Law 4
Luxembourg has enacted Blockchain Law 4, streamlining the issuance of digital securities using distributed ledger technology (DLT). The law introduces an optional control agent role—held by EU credit institutions or CSDs—to reduce reconciliation complexity inherent in its two-tier DLT system.
This positions Luxembourg as a leader in institutional-grade blockchain adoption for asset tokenization.
Google Enforces FCA Registration for UK Crypto Ads
Starting January 15, 2025, Google will require UK-based crypto advertisers to register with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The policy applies to:
- Crypto exchanges
- Software wallets
- Hardware wallets (without trading functionality)
All advertisers must also obtain Google certification—a move aligning with broader efforts to protect consumers from misleading financial promotions.
Market Movements: BONK Surges While APT Dips
According to data from OKX:
- BONK surged 19.62%, trading at $0.0000336
- PEPE rose 13.57%
- CRV and WIF both gained 10.84%
- APT declined 4.23%, now at $10.193
The rally in meme coins coincides with increased speculative activity ahead of potential regulatory clarity in early 2025.
Coinbase, Kraken, and Ripple Support Trump Inauguration
Major crypto firms are increasing their political engagement:
- Coinbase and Kraken: $1 million each
- Ripple: $5 million commitment
- MoonPay: Undisclosed donation
These contributions reflect growing alignment between the crypto industry and pro-innovation policy agendas in the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a USDT-margined perpetual contract?
A: It's a derivative product allowing traders to speculate on price movements using USDT as collateral, with no fixed expiry date and leverage up to 75x.
Q: Why did Tether invest in Rumble?
A: The investment supports free-speech platforms and aligns with Tether’s strategy of diversifying reserves while promoting decentralized digital ecosystems.
Q: What is MiCAR and why does it matter?
A: MiCAR is the EU’s comprehensive regulatory framework for crypto assets. It standardizes licensing, transparency, and consumer protection across member states.
Q: Are meme coins like BONK safe investments?
A: Meme coins are highly speculative. While they can deliver short-term gains, they lack fundamental utility compared to established protocols.
Q: How does Blockchain Law 4 benefit investors?
A: It reduces operational friction in issuing digital securities, lowering costs and increasing transparency for tokenized funds.
Q: Will Google’s ad policy affect all crypto companies?
A: Only those targeting UK audiences must comply. Firms must register with the FCA and pass Google’s certification process.
👉 Stay ahead of market trends with real-time data and secure trading tools.
Core Keywords: Binance perpetual contracts, Tether investment, MiCAR regulation, AI blockchain integration, crypto derivatives, stablecoin regulation, Web3 news