Fireblocks Teams Up with Sony to Bridge Web2 and Web3 on Soneium Blockchain

Crypto Custodian Fireblocks Expands to Sony's Soneium Blockchain

Fireblocks, a leading provider of crypto custodian technology, has announced its support for Sony's Soneium blockchain. This Ethereum layer-2 network, developed in collaboration with Singapore's Startale Labs, aims to bridge Web2 and Web3 technologies. The blockchain, which launched in January, currently holds $33.6 million in total value locked (TVL), as reported by DeFiLlama. Fireblocks' integration is expected to facilitate secure custody services for institutional clients, a critical step for broader adoption of digital assets. Omer Amsel, Fireblocks' head of Web3, emphasized the company's commitment to enabling decentralized digital ownership and innovation. (Source: CoinDesk, https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2025/02/12/fireblocks-adds-support-for-sony-s-soneium-first-step-in-provision-of-custody-services)

Franklin Templeton Extends Blockchain Fund to Solana

Franklin Templeton has expanded its Franklin OnChain U.S. Government Money Fund (FOBXX) to the Solana blockchain. This marks another step in the asset manager's blockchain integration strategy, which began with Stellar four years ago. FOBXX, which operates similarly to a stablecoin with a $1 share price, is already live on platforms like Coinbase’s Base, Aptos, and Avalanche. The fund invests in U.S. government securities and repurchase agreements backed by U.S. Treasuries. Franklin Templeton manages $594 million in tokenized Treasuries, making it a significant player in the $3.6 billion tokenized Treasuries market. (Source: The Block, https://www.theblock.co/post/340432/franklin-templeton-extends-fobxx-fund-to-solana)

CrowdGenAI Challenges Nvidia with Sustainable AI Solutions

CrowdGenAI, a CPU-based AI platform, is positioning itself as a sustainable alternative to Nvidia's GPU dominance. Launched at the World Economic Forum 2025 in Davos, the platform uses optimized CPU clusters to reduce costs and energy consumption while maintaining AI training efficiency. Its blockchain-based TraceID system ensures data ownership and provenance, addressing concerns over AI-generated misinformation and intellectual property theft. CrowdGenAI has already partnered with Google for Startups and Microsoft Accelerator, signaling strong industry interest. By leveraging existing CPU infrastructure, the platform offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly AI solution. (Source: Forbes, https://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2025/02/11/blockchain-proven-content-and-nvidia-alternative-check-out-crowdgenai/)

EVE Frontier Offers Free Trial for Blockchain-Based MMO

The blockchain-based MMO EVE Frontier is set to offer a 10-day free trial from February 14 to 24. This trial provides access to the game's alpha build, allowing players to explore its unique space survival mechanics without purchasing the $90 founder's pack. Set in a shattered region of space, the game challenges players to navigate supermassive black holes and rogue AI threats. While CCP Games avoids labeling it as a blockchain game, its integration of blockchain technology is a key feature. This trial aims to attract new players to experience the innovative gameplay. (Source: Massively Overpowered, https://massivelyop.com/2025/02/12/blockchain-space-survival-mmo-eve-frontier-will-offer-a-10-day-free-trial-on-february-14/)

BNB Chain Launches AI Hackathon to Drive Innovation

BNB Chain has introduced the BNB AI Hack, a hackathon designed to integrate artificial intelligence with blockchain technology. Sponsored by companies like APRO and Solidus AI Tech, the event encourages developers to create AI-powered solutions for the BNB ecosystem. Unlike traditional hackathons, this event features bi-weekly reviews instead of fixed deadlines. Suggested project tracks include AI-driven trading bots, decentralized data analysis tools, and gaming applications. The prize pool includes up to $10,000 in cash, $50,000 in funding, and mentorship opportunities. (Source: crypto.news, https://crypto.news/bnb-chain-launches-ai-hackathon-to-boost-blockchain-innovation/)

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