Latest from Stephen Alpher
Crypto industry experts at Consensus see Asian institutions pivot toward stablecoins
Panelists at the conference discussed how regulatory progress in Hong Kong and Japan creates a structured path for capital allocation.

Bitcoin layer-2 builders pitch BTCFi as the next institutional unlock
Leaders from Citrea, Rootstock Labs and BlockSpaceForce argued that bitcoin’s scaling layers are less about throughput and more about turning the asset into a programmable financial base layer.

From stablecoins to biotech: Why YZi Labs is betting on things that haven't happened yet
Ella Zhang of YZi Labs says her firm invests in founders building what doesn’t yet exist, guided by first principles and long-term conviction across AI, biotech and Web3.

Espresso network launches ESP token with 10% airdrop amid Ethereum layer-2 debate
The network transitioned to proof-of-stake and coincides with the rollout of the ESP token, which is used for staking, securing the network and protocol participation.

How CertiK rebuilt trust after Huione-related backlash
The cybersecurity firm has "no concrete plans" for an IPO despite reports to the contrary last month.

U.S. DOJ hits Paxful for $4 million in case tied to illegal sex work, money laundering
The crypto platform's penalty was sharply reduced due to its ability to pay, according to U.S. authorities.

Hong Kong remains committed to digital assets but feels competition from an ‘aggressive’ UAE
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have established a solid regulatory framework for virtual assets, and each region has brought this under the auspices of a single, dedicated regulatory authority.

Ondo and Securitize execs say utility, not hype, will drive tokenization’s next phase
Executives from both firms say the next phase of tokenization must prioritize functionality and compliance during a panel at Consensus in Hong Kong.

SEC's Paul Atkins grilled on crypto enforcement pull-back, including with Justin Sun, Tron
The U.S. agency's chairman said in a House hearing that he's open to a confidential briefing for lawmakers on the topic.

JPMorgan bullish on crypto for rest of year as institutional flows set to drive recovery
After bitcoin fell below its estimated production cost, the bank said stronger fundamentals and rising institutional inflows could lift crypto in 2026.

