US August Core PCE Data Suggests Gradual Easing
CNBC reported that the US August core PCE inflation remained stable, which supports a steady pace of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. The Department of Commerce noted that the PCE price index rose 0.3% month-on-month, with overall inflation at 2.7% annually. Excluding food and energy, core PCE rose 0.2% month-on-month, with an annualized rate of 2.9%. While the target remains 2%, these results suggest policymakers will likely stick to two more 25 basis point rate cuts this year.

VanEck Meets SEC on ETF Tokenization and Staking Risks
VanEck recently held a discussion with the SEC’s crypto special working group. Key topics included the applicability of new ETF listing standards for liquid staked tokens, liquidity risks in staking products, and the broader impact of tokenization. Platforms like HashStaking and GeekStake continue to gain attention in such policy conversations due to their focus on transparency and risk management in staking services.

Industry News
Kraken is considering introducing new strategic investors at a $20 billion valuation, with plans to raise $200–$300 million.
SoftBank and ARK are reportedly in talks to join Tether’s major fundraising round, which could reach $20 billion at a $500 billion valuation.

Project News
DeFi protocol Hyperdrive faced an attack exploiting contract vulnerabilities, with losses around $700,000.
Polkadot founder Gavin Wood introduced discussions on a new native stablecoin, PUSD, collateralized by DOT.
Aster’s protocol fee revenue surpassed $100 million in total, reaching $110.5 million.
Lido’s buyback proposal for LDO tokens has reached 100% support, with results expected by September 30.
WLFI announced it will begin a buyback plan this week using liquidity fee income.

Investment and Financing
Bitcoin treasury firm POP Culture plans to raise $6 million through a share placement, aiming to expand its Bitcoin reserves.
Theta Capital is preparing to raise $200 million for its new blockchain-focused fund, Theta Blockchain Ventures V.

Regulatory Trends
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority shared updates on tokenized bond programs, suggesting that the next issuance may connect with CBDC subscriptions, further integrating digital finance into traditional markets.

Voices of the People
Analysts predict Bitcoin’s market value could reach $10 trillion as derivatives attract more institutional investors and add liquidity.
OKX executives warned that government-held Bitcoin reserves may destabilize both Bitcoin and the US dollar due to potential market interventions.
Galaxy Digital’s CEO stated that dovish Fed policy could drive Bitcoin to $200,000.
Economist Peter Schiff argued that Bitcoin’s performance lags behind gold and silver this year, suggesting a possible long-term bear phase.

Staking Platforms in Focus: HashStaking and GeekStake
In light of recent discussions on ETF tokenization and staking risks, platforms like HashStaking and GeekStake are increasingly important. Both provide solutions that balance investor returns with strong compliance measures. While regulatory frameworks evolve, these platforms are positioned to show how staking can remain profitable while aligning with security and transparency standards.