Israel

eToro’s Crypto Trading Commissions Soar to $264M in Q2
Israeli-based exchange eToro said its commissions from crypto trading increased by nearly 23 times in the second quarter, compared with last year's same period. This comes as it readies going public via a merger with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) FinTech Acquisition Corp. V., which values the combined company at $10.4 billion. CEO Yoni Assia shares insights into the trading platform's earnings, growth, and plans.

Israeli Financial Authorities Double Down on Bitcoin-Linked Investments: Report
Insurance companies and investment houses might be required to detail and justify any investments linked to bitcoin.

Challenges of Dealing With Cryptocurrencies in Israel
A mix of high taxes, burdensome regulation and an antagonistic banking sector makes starting a crypto business in the Holy Land unviable.

CBDCs Can Stop Aid Falling Into Terrorist Hands
Central bank digital currencies, like the digital shekel, can be programmed to stop money reaching the wrong people, says Orbs' co-founder.

Israeli Bill Would Force Crypto Investors to Report Holdings Above $61K
The Israeli Bitcoin Association is opposing the proposed reporting requirement, calling it discriminatory.

Israeli Seizure Order Shows Hamas Holds USDT, TRX, DOGE
The wallets, 84 in all, show the terrorist group has diversified its holdings far beyond bitcoin.

Palestine’s Central Bank Reportedly Mulling a CBDC Launch
Palestinians do not have an independent currency, and rely on the Israeli shekel and Jordanian dinar.

Bank of Israel Has Already Tested a Digital Shekel
The official said he is not optimistic about an Israeli CBDC being launched.

eToro U.S. Chief on Expanding U.S. Hub to Miami; State of Crypto in Israel
Israeli-based exchange eToro plans to expand its U.S. hub in Hoboken, NJ, and build an additional branch in Miami, FL. eToro U.S. Managing Director Guy Hirsch joins "First Mover" to discuss what's in store. Plus, his main takeaways from the Bitcoin 2021 conference, how eToro is combatting the ransomware problem and the state of crypto in Israel.

Palestinian Militant Group Hamas Sees Increase in Crypto Donations Since Start of Conflict With Israel Last Month
The Palestinian militant group Hamas has seen a surge in cryptocurrency donations since the start of the escalating conflict in besieged Gaza. “The Hash” team explores bitcoin as a tool for freedom, and its role in the global financial system.

