Semler Scientific Acquires $21.5 Million Worth of Bitcoin
Crypto investment company Semler Scientific has disclosed the acquisition of Bitcoin (BTC) valued at approximately $21.5 million. The purchase reinforces the growing trend of institutional investments in cryptocurrency, even amid a volatile market. In a tweet circulating, the investment firm’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) confirmed the purchase, stating that the investment aligns with its strategic plan to diversify assets. According to the X post, the recent buying spree saw the company accumulate 211 BTC at an average selling price of $101,890 per token. With the recent acquisition, Semler Scientific amassed a quarterly yield of about 67% and a 92.8% appreciation after adopting BTC treasury in May 2024. Still, in the same tweet, the CEO added, “As of 12/15/24, we held 2,084 BTC acquired for ~$168.6 million at ~$80,916 per Bitcoin.” Meanwhile, it is worth noting that Semler Scientific is primarily known for its diagnostic and monitoring solutions in the healthcare sector. This move into digital assets signals the company’s interest in leveraging Bitcoin as a potential long-term store of value. Semler Scientific has acquired 211 BTC for ~$21.5 million at ~$101,890 per #bitcoin and has generated BTC Yield of 67.0% QTD and 92.8% since adopting our BTC treasury strategy in May. As of 12/15/24, we held 2,084 $BTC acquired for ~$168.6 million at ~$80,916 per bitcoin. $SMLR — Eric Semler (@SemlerEric) December 16, 2024 Growing Trend of Corporate Bitcoin Adoption Semler Scientific’s Bitcoin acquisition reflects a broader institutional trend toward cryptocurrency adoption. Major financial players, including corporations and hedge funds, have increasingly embraced Bitcoin as an alternative investment. This trend persists despite regulatory uncertainties and fluctuating market conditions. Experts suggest that the acquisition may also be a shield against inflation as Bitcoin continues to gain popularity as a digital equivalent of gold. Hence, Semler Scientific’s purchase adds to the narrative of Bitcoin’s growing role in corporate balance sheets, following similar moves by other firms earlier this year. Cryptocurrency Investment Carries Risks While the acquisition represents a strategic diversification for Semler Scientific, it also carries risks. Bitcoin’s price has been volatile, with significant fluctuations in 2024. The cryptocurrency market remains under heightened scrutiny by regulators worldwide, adding another layer of uncertainty for institutional investors. The investment outlet has not disclosed additional details about its plans for managing or expanding its cryptocurrency holdings. However, the company’s foray into digital assets indicates confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term potential amid short-term market challenges.
Simple Guide on Bridging Your Assets to The Open Network (TON)
Moving assets between blockchains can be challenging. High fees, complex steps, and security questions can overwhelm you. But with the right guidance, you can confidently bridge your assets to TON and take advantage of everything this groundbreaking platform offers. In this guide, we’ll show you, step by step, how to bridge to the TON Network. You’ll learn how easy it can be to make the most of this powerful network using simple instructions and real-life examples. Let’s take a look. Source: Ton Blog Key Takeaways What Is the TON Network? The Open Network (TON), which was originally developed by Telegram’s creators, is a decentralized blockchain designed for high-speed transactions and large-scale applications. It’s built to support millions of transactions per second, making it one of the most scalable blockchains today. With its native cryptocurrency, Toncoin (TON), users can access decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and other blockchain services directly through the Telegram app. Think of TON as a high-speed highway for digital money. Imagine sending money to a friend as quickly as you’d send a message on Telegram—TON makes this possible. Recommended reading: An Overview of Cryptocurrency Market Cap Statistics Why Bridge to the TON Network? In 2024, the TON Network saw a jump in new users who wanted cheaper and faster transactions. According to DefiLlama, TON’s DeFi apps reached over $677 million in total value locked (TVL), as people moved assets over from Ethereum to avoid high fees. Bridging to TON unlocks new opportunities: Alexey Pertsev, a blockchain developer with experience in cross-chain integrations, notes that TON’s integration with Telegram offers a seamless user experience that other blockchains can’t match. It’s a game-changer for those who want to move assets quickly and with minimal friction. This insight highlights why users, especially those familiar with Telegram, find TON appealing. How to Bridge to the TON Network Now that you understand why TON is worth bridging to, let’s look at how to make the switch. Let’s get into the process of moving your assets to TON using the official TON Bridge, a secure and trusted method for bridging. Source: Youtube Step 1: Prepare Your Wallets First, make sure you have two things: an Ethereum wallet like MetaMask, and a TON wallet like Tonkeeper to hold your assets on TON. Tip: If you’re using MetaMask, have a little extra ETH in your balance to cover gas fees—this can save you from last-minute delays. Step 2: Visit the TON Bridge Website Go to bridge.ton.org and connect your MetaMask wallet. Make sure you have some Ethereum (ETH) to cover the transaction fees. Step 3: Select the Token and Amount Choose the token you want to bridge, such as USDT or DAI, and specify the amount. Enter your TON wallet address as the destination. Pro Tip: Start with a small amount for your first transaction to get comfortable with the process and ensure everything works smoothly. Step 4: Approve the Transaction Click “Approve” to authorize the bridge to use your selected token. Confirm the transaction in MetaMask. You’ll see a notification when the transaction is approved. Step 5: Pay the Fees and Transfer After approval, you’ll be prompted to pay a 1 TON fee along with Ethereum gas fees. Confirm the transfer, and wait for it to be processed. Depending on the Ethereum network’s congestion, this might take a few minutes. Step 6: Receive Your Assets on TON Once the transaction is confirmed, your assets will appear in your TON wallet. Congratulations—you’re now ready to explore the TON ecosystem. In 2024, as DeFi activity surged on the TON Network, many users sought ways to minimize the cost of bridging assets from Ethereum to TON. According to a blog by Exponential DeFi and user discussions on Reddit’s CryptoCurrency community, users managed to cut their gas fees by nearly 30% by timing their transactions during off-peak hours like weekends or late nights. Hord Liquid Staking These examples show how real users save money while taking advantage of TON’s faster, cheaper transactions—making the TON Bridge a more attractive option for those tired of high fees. How Much Does It Cost to Bridge to TON? The cost of transferring assets to the TON Network depends mainly on Ethereum’s gas fees. On average, users pay around $15-$30 per transaction during low-congestion periods For more accurate estimates, you can check current gas prices on platforms like ETH Gas Station. Reducing Your Costs David Hoffman, a prominent voice in the Ethereum community, shared on a podcast episode that, Timing your transactions is key. Sending transactions during off-peak times can save users significant amounts on gas fees, sometimes up to 50%—making a big difference, especially for larger transfers. Recommended reading: ISO 20022 Crypto: The New Standard Shaping Digital Finance Conclusion Bridging your assets to The Open Network (TON) is simpler than it sounds and opens the door to a range of opportunities, from going through DeFi applications to managing your crypto directly within Telegram. With lower fees and faster transactions, TON offers a smoother experience compared to many other blockchains. Ready to save on fees and discover TON’s fast DeFi options? Head to bridge.ton.org to get started, and join the growing community of TON users By following this guide, you’ve taken the first step into the future of decentralized finance. Enjoy the ride, and welcome to the TON Network! FAQs
How to Create Cryptocurrency Without Coding Skills
Cryptocurrencies have changed how we think about money and technology, and they’re not just for tech experts anymore. With over 20,000 different cryptocurrencies already in existence, digital coins are more than just a trend—they’re shaping the future of finance. Big names like Bitcoin and Ethereum have captured the world’s attention with their soaring values, and, now, many people are looking to go beyond just investing. They want to create their own cryptocurrencies. The good news is that you don’t need to be a tech expert or know how to code to make your own cryptocurrency. With the help of easy-to-use tools and platforms, creating a digital currency is now within reach for anyone. This guide will show you step by step how you can create your very own cryptocurrency without writing a single line of code. Let’s get started on your journey to launch your digital currency! Key Takeaways What is Blockchain? Before going into cryptocurrency creation, it’s crucial to grasp the basic concepts of blockchain technology: Blockchain A blockchain is a digital ledger used to record all cryptocurrency transactions. It is decentralized, meaning there is no central authority or single entity controlling the network. Once information is recorded on the blockchain, it becomes immutable, ensuring that data cannot be altered or deleted. This transparency and permanence make blockchain technology highly secure and reliable for various applications beyond cryptocurrency. Token A token represents a digital value or asset on a blockchain and can serve different purposes, such as a currency, a security, or a utility. Tokens can be used for transactions, accessing specific services, or even representing ownership in a project. The flexibility of tokens makes them a crucial component in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Smart Contract A smart contract is a self-executing contract with terms directly embedded in the code. It automatically performs actions, such as transferring funds or issuing tokens, when certain predefined conditions are met. Smart contracts enable automation on the blockchain, reducing the need for intermediaries and enhancing the efficiency of various processes. Related: How to Buy New Cryptocurrency Before It’s Publicly Available. Why Create a Cryptocurrency? People create cryptocurrencies for various reasons, such as: Decentralizing Financial Services Cryptocurrencies provide a way to enable peer-to-peer transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks or payment processors. This decentralization allows individuals to have greater control over their financial activities and reduces transaction costs. It empowers users by offering financial inclusion to people who may not have access to traditional banking services. Building New Business Models Companies are increasingly using cryptocurrencies to create innovative business models. By offering tokens as rewards or payment methods, businesses can incentivize customers, encourage engagement, or even build loyalty programs. Tokens can also serve as a means of governance in decentralized organizations, allowing users to participate in decision-making processes. Crowdfunding Cryptocurrencies make it easier to raise capital through Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs). By issuing tokens to investors, startups can secure funding without the need for traditional venture capital. ICOs have become a popular method for blockchain projects to generate the funds required for development while simultaneously offering early adopters a stake in the project. Creating Decentralized Applications (dApps) Developers use cryptocurrencies to power decentralized applications (dApps) on blockchain platforms like Ethereum. Tokens are essential for dApp functionality, such as paying for services within the app or rewarding users for contributing to the ecosystem. This approach encourages developers to build and expand blockchain-based solutions for various industries. Read Also: Anonymity-Focused Coins: Purpose, Functions and Benefits Reason for No-Code Cryptocurrency Creation The cryptocurrency market has evolved significantly since Bitcoin’s inception in 2009. As of 2024, there are over 10,000 active cryptocurrencies, with a total market capitalization exceeding $2 trillion. This growth has paved the way for no-code solutions, making cryptocurrency creation accessible to non-developers. Here are some reasons to consider no-code cryptocurrency creation: Accessibility for Non-Developers No-code cryptocurrency creation opens the door for individuals without programming skills to participate in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space. It democratizes access to digital currency creation, allowing entrepreneurs, small businesses, and hobbyists to launch their own tokens or blockchain projects without the need for expensive development services. This accessibility lowers the barrier to entry, making cryptocurrency creation feasible for a wider audience. Speed and Efficiency Creating a cryptocurrency using traditional coding methods can be time-consuming and complex. No-code platforms streamline the process, enabling users to generate tokens or launch blockchains in a matter of minutes or hours instead of weeks or months. This speed allows projects to get to market faster, test concepts quickly, and adapt to market changes without significant delays. Cost-Effectiveness Hiring developers to create a custom cryptocurrency or blockchain solution can be costly. No-code platforms provide an affordable alternative, as users typically only need to pay a small fee for the token creation or blockchain deployment. This cost-effectiveness makes it a viable option for startups, small businesses, and individuals who want to explore cryptocurrency projects without substantial upfront investment. Customization without Complexity No-code solutions offer easy-to-use interfaces that allow users to customize various aspects of their cryptocurrency, such as tokenomics, supply limits, and transaction fees, without dealing with complex code. This flexibility enables the creation of unique digital assets that cater to specific use cases, such as rewards programs, governance tokens, or payment solutions, while keeping the process straightforward. Empowering New Business Models No-code cryptocurrency creation enables businesses to explore innovative business models that leverage blockchain technology. Companies can issue tokens for rewards programs, crowdfunding, or payment systems, facilitating new revenue streams and customer engagement strategies. This empowerment encourages the adoption of blockchain technology in various industries and expands the possibilities for digital innovation. How to Create Cryptocurrency Without Code: A Step-by-Step Guide Creating a cryptocurrency without any coding skills is now possible, thanks to various tools and platforms that make the process straightforward and user-friendly. Let’s use Token Tool by Bitbond as our platform to create a cryptocurrency without any coding skills. Token Tool by Bitbond is a user-friendly platform that allows you to create
Can You Use Crypto Cards for Gambling?
Crypto cards have made gambling transactions faster, safer, and more private. Since its introduction to the gambling industry, players can bet easily, win without a hassle, and cash out funds securely. Read Also: Top Crypto Games You Can Start Playing Right Now This article highlights the growing adoption of crypto cards in the gambling industry. Key Takeaways Overview of Crypto Cards Crypto cards are payment cards that allow users to spend cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin, in real-world transactions. They are backed by blockchains but transactions on these cards are processed through traditional payment networks like Visa & Mastercard. These cards also come as prepaid cards loaded with cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies, and they bridge the gap between digital currencies and traditional payment systems. Types of Crypto Cards Popular cryptocurrencies used for gambling include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Dogecoin (DOGE), Tether (USDT), Stellar (XLM) and Ripple (XRP). Note: While some crypto cards, like the Crypto.com Visa card, restrict usage on gambling websites due to compliance and regulatory issues, others, like the UPay card, have broader acceptance, including on gambling websites. Crypto Cards In Gambling Source: Freepik Gambling can take various forms, including casino games (slots, roulette, blackjack), sports betting (football, basketball, tennis), poker, lottery, bingo, and horse racing. Examples of popular gambling platforms accepting crypto cards are BetOnline, Bovada, 888 Casino, BitStarz, and Cloudbet Comparison of Fees, Limits, etc Crypto Card Issuer Fees Daily Spending Limits Acceptance Upay Card 1% transaction fee $5,000 daily limit Accepted on gambling sites Binance Card 1.5% transaction fee $20,000 daily limit Accepted on gambling sites BitPay Card 3% transaction fee $10,000 daily limit Accepted on gambling sites CoinBase Card 2.49% transaction fee $10,000 daily limit Not accepted on gambling sites Why Crypto Cards Are Used For Gambling There are various reasons why gamblers favor crypto cards. Crypto cards offer numerous benefits for online gambling. Fees They have low fees that outperform traditional payment methods. Their competitive fees and fast transactions enable quick deposits and withdrawals, ensuring that betting activities are seamless. Absence of intermediaries The absence of intermediaries further reduces transaction costs, while more significant transactions mean high transaction costs. Additionally, cryptocurrency transactions provide anonymity, enhancing privacy and security. Global participation Players worldwide can participate in online gambling activities and pay seamlessly due to the global accessibility of cryptocurrencies, which enable borderless transactions—paired with diversified spending options that support multiple cryptocurrencies, expanding the reach of online gambling platforms. Access & availability With 24/7 availability, players can access their favorite platforms anytime, and mobile optimization ensures crypto cards work seamlessly on mobile devices. Registration processes are also simplified, making it easy to get started. Security Another significant benefit is that cryptocurrency transactions prioritize security and privacy, with pseudonymous transactions protecting users’ identities—encryption and cryptography guarantee and secure transactions, minimizing identity theft risk. Rewards & benefits Exclusive benefits for crypto users include cryptocurrency bonuses, cashback rewards in cryptocurrencies, and loyalty programs offering exclusive perks for frequent players. VIP programs provide enhanced rewards and benefits for high-rollers or whales. Risks and Limitations Although its benefits are large, using cryptocurrency cards for online gambling comes with inherent risks. Note: To minimize these risks, choosing reputable crypto card issuers is important. Also, use secure wallets and storage, set transaction limits, and monitor accounts regularly. Also, practicing responsible gambling habits is crucial. These habits include setting boundaries, seeking support when needed, and being aware of the potential negative consequences of excessive gambling. Regulatory Environment Source: Freepik The Gambling industry keeps improving daily, but its regulatory landscape is still quite complex. While some countries have established clear guidelines, others have ambiguous or restrictive policies, making it challenging for operators and players to navigate. Key regulatory bodies such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Trade Organization (WTO), European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA), and American Gaming Association (AGA) play crucial roles in shaping the global regulatory framework for gambling. These organizations aim to balance the need for innovation with concerns around anti-money laundering (AML), know-your-customer (KYC), and consumer protection. Country-specific regulations highlight the diversity of approaches to crypto gambling. Federal laws, such as the Wire Act (1961) and UIGEA (2006), prohibit online gambling in the United States, but some states, like Nevada and New Jersey, have legalized it. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) provides guidelines for virtual currency transactions. In contrast, the European Union has implemented directives like 2015/849 (AML) and 2018/843 (AMLD5), while member states like the UK, Germany, and Malta have their regulatory bodies overseeing crypto gambling. Australia, Singapore, and Japan have stricter national laws, with some exceptions at the state or provincial level. For instance, Australia’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001 prohibits online gambling, but some states allow online betting. Nigeria has a complex gambling regulatory environment, with federal and state laws governing the industry. The regulatory environment for crypto gambling is still unknown. You should know that while there are no specific laws addressing crypto gambling in Nigeria, existing financial regulations apply, such as restricting crypto transactions and activities and reporting suspicious transactions, including those involving cryptocurrencies, to the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). Given the CBN’s ban on cryptocurrency transactions, using crypto cards for gambling in Nigeria is risky and potentially illegal. However: Understanding these jurisdiction-specific regulations is vital for operators seeking to comply with laws and ensure player safety and for players involved in crypto gambling activities. Effective compliance with AML and KYC policies is critical for crypto gambling operators. Furthermore… AML regulations require Customer Due Diligence (CDD), which involves verifying customers’ identities and assessing risk levels. Ongoing Transaction Monitoring helps detect suspicious activities, which must be reported to relevant authorities. Robust Record-Keeping ensures that all transactions and customer information are securely stored. These measures help prevent illicit financial flows, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes. By adhering to these guidelines, operators can mitigate risks, protect players, and maintain the integrity of the crypto gaming ecosystem. Moreover, compliance enhances the sector’s reputation,