🔒 Crypto Security Takes Center Stage

Japan is moving toward approving cryptocurrency ETFs as early as 2028, according to Nikkei reports. Major financial institutions **Nomura and SBI Holdings** are positioned to lead the first wave of listings. This development follows Japan's earlier policy shifts that introduced tax cuts and allowed crypto to be included in diversified investment portfolios. The country's regulatory framework continues to evolve, potentially opening institutional access to digital assets through traditional investment vehicles. The 2028 timeline suggests Japanese regulators are taking a measured approach to crypto ETF approval, likely observing developments in other markets before implementation.

A Coinbase survey reveals institutional investors maintain strong conviction in crypto assets despite market volatility. **Key Findings:** - 80% of institutional investors would hold or buy more crypto if markets fall another 10% - Over 60% have held or increased their positions since October, when Bitcoin reached its all-time high - Results indicate long-term confidence in the asset class among institutional players The survey data suggests institutional appetite for crypto remains robust, with most investors viewing potential price drops as buying opportunities rather than exit signals.

The Ethereum Foundation has established a dedicated Post-Quantum security team with $2 million in funding. **Key Details:** - Team will be led by Thomas Coratger - Focus on addressing cryptographic vulnerabilities from quantum computing advances - Builds on Foundation's year-long expansion of security researchers and engineers **Why It Matters:** Quantum computers pose a theoretical threat to current blockchain cryptography. This initiative represents a proactive approach to securing Ethereum's infrastructure against future technological developments. The team joins existing security personnel from backgrounds in cryptography, security architecture, and risk management.

**World Liberty Financial made a significant portfolio shift**, selling 93.77 WBTC (wrapped Bitcoin) valued at $8.1 million to purchase 2,868 ETH at $2,813 per token. **Key Transaction Details:** - Sold: 93.77 WBTC (~$8.1M) - Acquired: 2,868 ETH at $2,813 each - Transaction executed through Trump-backed DeFi platform **Recent Activity Context:** This move follows World Liberty Financial's recent acquisition of multiple ENS domain names (WorldLiberty.eth, trumpcoin.eth, erictrump.eth, barrontrump.eth) and a previous purchase of 14,403 ETH worth approximately $48 million in mid-January. The strategic reallocation from Bitcoin to Ethereum by a Trump-affiliated entity signals potential confidence in ETH's near-term performance. [View transaction details](https://x.com/coinbureau/status/2015639583879565437/photo/1)

A comprehensive study analyzing $4 trillion in trade reveals a stark reality about tariff costs. **Key Findings:** - American consumers and businesses absorb **96% of tariff costs** through higher prices - Foreign exporters bear only **4% of the burden** - Economists warn tariffs act as a **hidden tax** on Americans **Market Implications:** The findings raise concerns about potential inflation pressures that could impact crypto assets including BTC, ETH, SOL, DOGE, and MATIC. As tariffs effectively function as a consumption tax, increased costs may influence investor behavior and market dynamics across digital assets. The data challenges assumptions about who ultimately pays for trade barriers, with the burden falling overwhelmingly on domestic parties rather than foreign exporters.