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Edelman’s 10%-40% Crypto Allocation Recommendation Reflects A Bold Bet On Digital Assets

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Ric Edelman, a prominent US financial advisor and head of the Digital Assets Council of Financial Advisors, has recommended that investors allocate 10% to 40% of their portfolios to cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin. This marks a significant shift from his 2021 recommendation of just 1% exposure, driven by Bitcoin’s mainstream adoption, the launch of US Bitcoin spot ETFs in January 2024, and the obsolescence of the traditional 60/40 stock-bond model due to increased life expectancy and the need for higher returns.

Edelman argues that crypto’s low correlation with traditional assets like stocks and bonds enhances portfolio diversification and offers higher return potential, with Bitcoin outperforming traditional asset classes over the past decade. However, he acknowledges the high risk, and investors should consider their risk tolerance. Other experts, like those from J.P. Morgan and Motley Fool, suggest more conservative allocations (1%-10%), citing crypto’s volatility. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Crypto’s high volatility (e.g., Bitcoin’s price swings of 20%-30% in short periods) introduces significant risk. A 10%-40% allocation could amplify portfolio losses during crypto market downturns, requiring strong risk tolerance. Edelman’s recommendation challenges the conventional 60/40 stock-bond portfolio, suggesting it’s outdated due to longer life expectancies and insufficient returns for retirement planning. Crypto could fill this gap for growth-seeking investors.

A high-profile recommendation like Edelman’s could drive more institutional and retail investment into crypto, boosting demand and potentially stabilizing prices over time. The launch of US Bitcoin spot ETFs in 2024 has already facilitated institutional access. Large allocations may attract greater regulatory attention, as governments monitor systemic risks from widespread crypto adoption. This could lead to stricter regulations, impacting market dynamics.

Edelman’s stance signals crypto’s growing acceptance among traditional financial advisors, potentially encouraging more advisors to include digital assets in client portfolios. Investors must understand crypto’s speculative nature, including risks like market manipulation, regulatory uncertainty, and technological vulnerabilities (e.g., hacks). Edelman’s advice emphasizes education and due diligence.

Younger investors, more comfortable with digital assets, may embrace higher allocations, while older investors may remain cautious, creating a generational divide in adoption. Financial advisors will need to upskill in crypto markets to guide clients effectively, as evidenced by Edelman’s Digital Assets Council of Financial Advisors.

Advisors like Edelman and firms like Grayscale view crypto as a transformative asset class, citing its historical performance, diversification benefits, and technological innovation (e.g., blockchain). They argue for significant allocations, especially for younger or high-risk-tolerance investors. Bitcoin’s fixed supply (21 million coins), institutional adoption (e.g., ETFs, corporate treasuries like MicroStrategy), and global accessibility make it a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation. These advisors target tech-savvy or growth-oriented investors willing to accept high volatility for potential outsized returns.

Firms like J.P. Morgan, Vanguard, and some Motley Fool analysts recommend far lower allocations (1%-10% or none), emphasizing crypto’s volatility, lack of intrinsic value, and regulatory risks. For example, J.P. Morgan suggests a 1%-5% cap for most investors. Critics argue crypto lacks the stability of traditional assets, with price movements driven by speculation rather than fundamentals. They prioritize capital preservation and proven assets like bonds or blue-chip stocks.

Risk-averse investors, particularly retirees or those nearing retirement, are advised to avoid or minimize crypto exposure. Some advisors advocate a balanced approach, suggesting 5%-10% allocations to capture upside potential while limiting downside risk. This aligns with modern portfolio theory, balancing risk and reward. They recommend diversified crypto exposure (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, or crypto ETFs) rather than single-coin bets, emphasizing professional management via funds.

Younger advisors and clients are more open to crypto’s high-risk, high-reward profile, while traditional advisors prioritize stability. Many advisors lack expertise in crypto, leading to conservative recommendations. Edelman’s council aims to bridge this gap. Crypto’s relatively short history (Bitcoin launched in 2009) and regulatory uncertainty make it contentious compared to established asset classes.

Edelman’s 10%-40% crypto allocation recommendation reflects a bold bet on digital assets as a core portfolio component, driven by their performance and diversification benefits. However, it amplifies risks and diverges from conservative advice, highlighting a divide between progressive and traditional financial advisors. Investors should carefully assess their goals, risk tolerance, and the evolving crypto landscape, ideally consulting a qualified advisor.

Africa Faces Heightened Cybercrime Cases Amid Rapid Digital Adoption

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Africa’s rapid digital transformation, driven by widespread mobile penetration, internet connectivity, and digital finance adoption, has created both opportunities and significant challenges.

As the continent embraces technologies like mobile banking, AI, and cloud computing, cybercrime has surged, exploiting gaps in cybersecurity infrastructure and law enforcement capacity.

According to the Interpol Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2025, with over 500 million Internet users in the region, many countries still lack adequate cybersecurity measures, leaving businesses and individuals vulnerable to attacks.

Many countries across the continent face challenges such as legal frameworks that are still taking shape, limited cybersecurity investment, and digital literacy gaps, further exacerbating these risks. Also, the widespread use of smartphones has made mobile platforms a primary target for cybercriminals, particularly in regions with high mobile banking adoption.

Additionally, the growing integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing presents new security risks, as many of these devices lack robust protection. Several African nations, including Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Uganda, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Mozambique, are among the most frequently targeted globally in 2024.

Notably, cybercriminals are continuously evolving their tactics, leveraging social engineering, artificial intelligence, and instant messaging platforms to launch increasingly sophisticated attacks. Both domestic and international cybercrime networks are capitalizing on human vulnerabilities, using advanced deception techniques to target individuals and organizations alike.

Recent survey findings from INTERPOL’s African member countries, in collaboration with private sector partners and regional cybersecurity reports, have identified the most pressing cyberthreats on the continent. These include online scams, ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), and digital sextortion.

Online scams, in particular, are surging across several African nations. Cybercriminals are rapidly adapting their strategies to exploit weaknesses and defraud victims. Phishing schemes, romance scams, and other fraudulent activities have become more complex through the strategic application of AI, social engineering, and manipulation via social media platforms.

INTERPOL member countries have underscored these scams as some of the most critical cyber risks in Africa for 2024, citing their increasing prevalence and the significant damage they inflict on both individuals and businesses. The rapid pace of digital transformation across Africa is fueling a sharp rise in online scams. As more people engage with social media, digital commerce, and mobile banking, cybercriminals are taking advantage of the expanded digital footprint to commit fraud.

Phishing, a method used to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information, has emerged as the most widespread cyberthreat in Africa in 2024. Both individuals and organizations are being targeted, with INTERPOL member countries ranking phishing as their top cybersecurity concern due to its high frequency and broad impact. Digital security reports show that phishing accounts for 34% of all reported cyber incidents across the continent.

Cybercriminals execute phishing attacks by impersonating trusted institutions through emails, messaging apps, and fake websites. These tactics are designed to manipulate victims into disclosing confidential data such as login credentials, banking information, or personal identification. Once acquired, this information enables unauthorized access, identity theft, and financial fraud.

The increasing sophistication of phishing schemes poses a growing threat to vital sectors, including banking, government services, and telecommunications. As Africa continues its digital evolution, the fight against phishing and online scams has become a critical priority for regional cybersecurity efforts.

As cyberthreats grow more complex, the strategies and tools used to combat them must also evolve. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, data analytics, and automation offer users and law enforcement agencies powerful capabilities to anticipate, detect, and disrupt cybercriminal activities at scale. Yet, the adoption of these tools remains inconsistent across African nations.

Ethereum (ETH) Trader Predicts Potential Rise to $7000 Despite Market Pullback, While Little Pepe (LILPEPE) is Tipped to Soar 7000%

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Ethereum (ETH) has been displaying bullish strength after a period of accumulation and a number of sustained technical supports at the $2,470 price level. In spite of the recent crash in the larger cryptocurrency market, ETH has not lost its trading range from around 2580-2770. Analysts observe that Ethereum is developing a pattern of higher lows, which is an early sign of a breakout. According to the technical analysts, resistance is noted at $2,773 and $2,879. A violation of these levels can lead ETH to overstep the $3,000 mark. This arrangement, together with increased institutional interest, has caused some traders to adjust their price targets. Some projections have placed an upward movement to around US$5,000 in the next quarter. If the healthy macroeconomic and regulatory environment continues, it will be as much as US$7,000 by the end of the year.

On-chain data confirms these bullish vibes in the recent past. A blockchain analytics company, Santiment, indicated that a range of 100-1000 ETH wallets must have gained 1.49 million ETH over the last 30 days. Distribution of these wallets currently controls about 27 percent of the overall circulating supply, an indication that long-term holders are gearing towards valuation hiking.

Institutional Demand and ETF Momentum Support Ethereum’s Case

Ethereum has also benefited from institutional interest, as evidenced by large inflows into ETH-focused investment products. Data from leading fund trackers show that institutions acquired over $240 million in Ethereum within a 24-hour window in early June. Market watchers attribute this activity to rising speculation that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may soon approve Ethereum-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs) with staking functionality.

Such regulatory clarity could unlock a new wave of capital and further cement Ethereum’s position as a preferred digital asset for both retail and institutional investors. With staking-enabled ETFs on the horizon, Ethereum’s core value proposition as a programmable asset with passive yield potential gains more prominence. This backdrop of technical strength, whale accumulation, and increasing institutional participation provides the basis for some traders’ projecting that ETH could climb as high as $7,000 by late Q4 2025.

Little Pepe (LILPEPE) Advances with Layer-2 Utility and Viral Growth

Ethereum represents a high-cap market asset with relatively moderate upside. A newer entrant, Little Pepe (LILPEPE), is attracting attention for its high-risk, high-reward potential. LILPEPE is currently in Stage 2 of its presale, with over $965,000 raised out of a $1.325 million goal. Its starting price of $0.0011 and unique Layer-2 positioning have led some market observers to speculate on a possible 7,000% return should it achieve adoption milestones.

LILPEPE is being introduced as the first Layer-2 blockchain explicitly designed for meme coins. Unlike standard meme tokens that operate solely as ERC-20 or BEP-20 assets, LILPEPE integrates infrastructure to support meme-focused project launches, including a proprietary launchpad, anti-sniper bot mechanisms, and zero taxation on token transactions. The project has already confirmed centralized exchange (CEX) listings and claims to be developed by anonymous creators with a history of launching successful meme assets in previous cycles. Its emphasis on security and decentralization sets it apart from many meme tokens that have faced scrutiny for a lack of transparency or tokenomics-related issues.

Market Buzz Surrounding LILPEPE Giveaway and Viral Campaign

LILPEPE’s presale has been further energized by a $777,000 giveaway campaign, which has significantly boosted engagement across social platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Telegram, and Discord. The campaign promises 10 winners $77,000 each in LILPEPE tokens, subject to presale participation. The project is positioning itself not only as a meme coin but also as a dedicated infrastructure for the meme ecosystem. It gives developers a platform with built-in liquidity locks, community-oriented governance, and rug-pull protections. Upon occurrence, this will enable LILPEPE to act as a utility, platform-like, and meme-driven asset, which in the given market will be highly unique, given that by then, only an asset with viral hype will be accessible. Indeed, these forecasts are more subjective and, to a substantial extent, founded on the mood in the market. Prior orders and technological presentation give LILPEPE a specific profile among new competitors in the business. In several months, Ethereum stands to increase 2 to 3 times; thus, traders are inclined to develop a release of LILPEPE, who attach significance to increased asymmetrical returns.

 

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Website: https://littlepepe.com

A Look At Tokenized Shares of MicroStrategy (MSTR) On Gemini

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Gemini, a cryptocurrency exchange, launched tokenized shares of MicroStrategy (MSTR) for its European Union customers. These tokens, issued on the Arbitrum blockchain, allow 24/7 trading of MSTR stock, bypassing traditional market limitations like restricted trading hours and high fees for international investors. Gemini partnered with Dinari, a tokenized securities provider, to ensure liquidity, transparency, and economic rights equivalent to the underlying stock.

More tokenized stocks and ETFs are planned for release soon. This move reflects a broader trend of integrating blockchain with traditional finance, though tokenized equities are not yet available in the U.S. due to regulatory hurdles. The launch of tokenized MicroStrategy (MSTR) stock by Gemini has several implications for investors, markets, and the broader financial ecosystem, particularly in the context of the divide between traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi).

Tokenized MSTR stock allows European investors to trade shares 24/7 on the Arbitrum blockchain, bypassing traditional market constraints like trading hours and geographic restrictions. This democratizes access to U.S.-listed securities like MSTR, which is heavily tied to Bitcoin due to MicroStrategy’s significant BTC holdings. Retail investors in the EU, who may face high fees or barriers to trading U.S. stocks, gain a cost-effective way to invest in MSTR. The use of blockchain also enables fractional ownership, lowering the entry barrier for smaller investors.

By tokenizing a traditional asset like MSTR stock, Gemini creates a hybrid financial instrument that operates within the DeFi ecosystem while representing ownership in a TradFi asset. This aligns with the growing trend of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, where traditional securities are mirrored on blockchain platforms. Investors can leverage DeFi’s advantages (e.g., transparency, immutability, and low-cost transactions) while retaining the economic rights of traditional stock ownership, such as dividends or voting rights, as ensured by Gemini’s partner, Dinari.

Tokenized securities are currently limited to the EU due to stricter U.S. regulations around blockchain-based financial products. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not yet fully embraced tokenized equities, creating a jurisdictional divide. This restricts U.S. investors from participating in this market, potentially slowing the adoption of tokenized assets globally. It also highlights the regulatory lag in integrating blockchain with traditional markets, which could stifle innovation in major financial hubs like the U.S.

Tokenization reduces intermediaries (e.g., brokers, clearinghouses) by leveraging blockchain’s decentralized infrastructure. This could lower transaction costs and settlement times compared to traditional stock trading. As Gemini plans to tokenize more stocks and ETFs, this could spur competition among exchanges to offer similar products, driving innovation in how assets are traded and managed. It may also pressure traditional exchanges to adopt blockchain technology to remain competitive.

MicroStrategy’s stock is closely tied to Bitcoin’s price, making tokenized MSTR a speculative asset within the crypto ecosystem. The 24/7 trading capability could amplify volatility, as investors react to crypto market movements in real-time. This could attract speculative traders, increasing trading volume but also heightening risk for investors unprepared for crypto-driven price swings. It may also draw attention from regulators concerned about market stability.

Centralized, regulated systems with intermediaries like banks, brokers, and exchanges. It prioritizes stability, investor protection, and compliance but is often slow, costly, and restrictive. Decentralized, blockchain-based systems emphasizing accessibility, transparency, and efficiency. However, it faces challenges like regulatory uncertainty, security risks (e.g., hacks), and limited mainstream adoption.

By offering a TradFi asset (MSTR stock) on a DeFi platform (Arbitrum), Gemini bridges these philosophies, combining TradFi’s structured asset class with DeFi’s technological advantages. However, the divide persists due to regulatory restrictions (e.g., U.S. exclusion) and differing investor mindsets. Heavily regulated with clear frameworks for securities trading, investor protections, and market oversight. DeFi operates in a regulatory gray zone, with fragmented global rules and ongoing debates about whether tokenized assets are securities, commodities, or something else.

The EU’s progressive stance on crypto (e.g., MiCA regulation) enables tokenized securities, while U.S. regulatory caution creates a geographic divide. This forces platforms like Gemini to limit offerings to specific regions, fragmenting the global market. TradFi relies on legacy systems like centralized clearinghouses and batch-processed settlements, which are slow and costly. DeFi uses blockchain for near-instant settlements, transparent ledgers, and programmable smart contracts.

By leveraging Arbitrum’s layer-2 blockchain, Gemini offers faster, cheaper transactions than traditional stock exchanges. This highlights DeFi’s technological edge but also underscores the challenge of integrating blockchain with TradFi’s infrastructure, which is not yet fully equipped for tokenized assets. TradFi dominant among institutional and retail investors due to familiarity, trust, and regulatory backing.

DeFi primarily adopted by crypto-native users and early adopters, with limited penetration among traditional investors wary of volatility or complexity. Tokenized MSTR appeals to crypto-savvy investors interested in Bitcoin exposure via MicroStrategy, but traditional investors may hesitate due to unfamiliarity with blockchain or concerns about counterparty risks (e.g., Dinari’s role as a liquidity provider).

The launch of tokenized MSTR stock by Gemini is a significant step toward integrating TradFi and DeFi, offering enhanced accessibility, liquidity, and efficiency for EU investors. However, it also highlights the persistent divide between the two systems, driven by regulatory, technological, and adoption barriers. While tokenized securities have the potential to reshape finance, their success depends on overcoming these challenges, particularly in harmonizing regulations and building trust among traditional investors.

Moonshot Launches “Moonshot Create” Features

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Moonshot, a mobile-first Web3 application built on the Solana blockchain, launched its Moonshot Create feature on, enabling users to mint memecoins directly from their mobile devices with unprecedented ease. This feature allows anyone to create a Solana-based memecoin by uploading a photo and paying a network initialization fee (e.g., 0.02 SOL) via Apple Pay, streamlining the process to under a few minutes without requiring coding or technical expertise.

The launchpad, branded as Moonshot Create, integrates a user-friendly interface with familiar payment methods like Apple Pay, credit/debit cards, and PayPal, making it accessible to both crypto newcomers and seasoned traders. Users sign up with an email and Face ID, define token parameters (name, ticker, description, and supply), upload an image, and pay a small fee to deploy the token on Solana.

Newly minted coins carry a 0.5% trading fee until they undergo a “bonding” event, locking the supply to an on-chain liquidity curve, reducing the fee to 0.3%. Creators earn up to 50% of swap fees post-bonding. Tokens reaching a $1 million fully diluted valuation and completing bonding gain preferred verification status and front-page placement on the app.

Since the launch, Moonshot’s daily fee revenue spiked to $330,000 and $320,000 over two days, a tenfold increase, driven by high user engagement and community interest in easy memecoin creation. The app uses Face ID for sign-in, operates as a self-custodial wallet for full user control, and vets tokens to prevent rug pulls, enhancing trust.

The launch has been met with enthusiasm, particularly on platforms like X, where users describe Moonshot Create as a “game-changer” for its clean UI, fast launches, and accessibility. For example, posts highlight the ability to launch a memecoin in under two minutes, with one user noting their friend launched a coin next to trending tokens like MONKEPHONE. However, some users have reported issues, such as app congestion during high volatility (e.g., during the $TRUMP token crash from $75 to $40), which prevented timely sales, and difficulties with registration or deposits.

Users can create a memecoin by uploading a photo, naming the token, and paying the network initialization fee through Apple Pay in three simple steps. The platform’s intuitive design eliminates the need for seed phrases or deep blockchain knowledge, making it accessible for beginners. It also supports other payment methods like PayPal, credit/debit cards, and crypto deposits.

Additional features include real-time market trend updates, Face ID login, and a self-custodial wallet, ensuring users retain control over their funds. However, some users have reported issues with Apple Pay transactions failing, requiring workarounds like debit card verification, and the platform has faced criticism for server congestion during high-volatility periods, impacting withdrawals.

Moonshot, developed by DEX Screener, competes with platforms like Pump.fun, which also updated its mobile app on the same day with features like rapid price tracking and one-click buying. While Moonshot excels in payment integration and security, it lacks the social features (e.g., chat or livestream) that Pump.fun offers, and memecoin trading interest has waned recently, with Solana memecoin trading volume dropping to $47 billion in June 2025 from $74.7 billion in May.

Despite this, Moonshot’s user base surged to 100,000 daily active users in January 2025, fueled by high-profile token launches like $TRUMP and $MELANIA. Memecoins are highly speculative and volatile, intended for entertainment, not investment. Users should exercise caution, as significant losses are possible, and Moonshot’s app emphasizes this disclaimer. Technical issues, like server congestion, highlight risks during peak trading periods.