Crypto Buzz: Bull Bitcoin Grows, Dogecoin ETP Debuts, Kraken Cards Launched

Bull Bitcoin: A Cypherpunk Vision Expands

Founded in Montreal in 2013, Bull Bitcoin has established itself as a privacy-focused, Bitcoin-only exchange. Unlike many competitors, it operates on a noncustodial model, ensuring that purchased Bitcoin is sent directly to users' wallets. This approach aligns with the cypherpunk ethos of privacy and self-sovereignty, as emphasized by founder Francis Pouliot.

Recently, Bull Bitcoin expanded its operations to the eurozone, following its earlier move into Costa Rica. The company has also integrated advanced technologies like the Lightning Network and PayJoin, enhancing user privacy. Additionally, Bull Bitcoin offers services such as bill payments and real estate purchases using Bitcoin, further promoting its use as a currency rather than a speculative asset.

"Bull Bitcoin is probably the longest-running Bitcoin-only, self-custodial exchange," said Theo Mogenet, Europe General Manager for Bull Bitcoin.

Key Takeaways:

Noncustodial model ensures user privacy and security.
Expansion into the eurozone and Costa Rica highlights its global ambitions.
Focus on Bitcoin-only services avoids the risks associated with altcoins.

21Shares and House of Doge Launch Dogecoin ETP

On April 9, 2025, 21Shares announced an exclusive partnership with the House of Doge to launch the first Dogecoin ETP endorsed by the Dogecoin Foundation. This product, listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker DOGE, is 100% physically backed, offering institutional-grade exposure to Dogecoin.

Dogecoin, originally created as a lighthearted alternative to Bitcoin, has gained significant traction due to its low fees and fast transaction speeds. Major brands like Microsoft and AMC Theatres now accept Dogecoin as payment. The ETP aims to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the Dogecoin ecosystem, promoting its adoption as a global currency.

"Dogecoin represents a cultural and financial movement," said Duncan Moir, President at 21Shares.

Key Takeaways:

First Dogecoin ETP endorsed by the Dogecoin Foundation.
Listed on SIX Swiss Exchange, providing regulated access to Dogecoin.
Supports Dogecoin's vision of becoming a global currency.

Toobit Wins Best Crypto Exchange MENA 2025

Toobit, a global cryptocurrency exchange, was awarded "Best Crypto Exchange MENA 2025" at the World Business Outlook Awards. This recognition highlights Toobit's innovation and commitment to secure trading in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The MENA region has become a hub for cryptocurrency activity, with the UAE's market projected to reach $1.53 billion in transaction value by 2025. Toobit's efforts in expanding crypto education and adoption have been pivotal in this growth. The exchange also ventured into South Korea in 2024, showcasing its global ambitions.

Key Takeaways:

Recognized for excellence in the MENA region.
UAE's crypto market projected to reach $1.53 billion in 2025.
Continued global expansion, including South Korea.

Kraken and Mastercard Introduce Crypto Debit Cards

Kraken has partnered with Mastercard to launch physical and digital crypto debit cards in the UK and Europe. These cards will allow users to spend cryptocurrencies and stablecoins at over 150 million merchants worldwide. This initiative is part of Kraken Pay, a service enabling cross-border payments in over 300 currencies.

More than 200,000 users have already activated their "Kraktag," a unique identifier linked to their Kraken wallet. The debit cards are expected to be available in the coming weeks, further bridging the gap between the crypto economy and traditional spending.

Key Takeaways:

Crypto debit cards to be launched in the UK and Europe.
Part of Kraken Pay, supporting over 300 currencies.
Over 200,000 users have activated their "Kraktag."

Binance Introduces Reward-Bearing Asset LDUSDT

Binance announced the launch of LDUSDT, a new yield-bearing product for futures trading. Unlike traditional tokens, LDUSDT allows users to earn rewards and use them as collateral for trading. This initiative follows the success of Binance's BFUSD, introduced in November 2024.

LDUSDT aims to increase capital efficiency for users, enabling them to earn rewards while maintaining liquidity. Binance continues to lead the derivatives market, with a 24-hour trading volume of $129.7 billion, according to CoinGecko.

Key Takeaways: