PARODY ON $6.2M BANANA ART GRABS ATTENTION AT LAS VEGAS GALLERY

‘The Six Million Dollar Man with Banana’ by Mr. Hide Draws Crowds
At Animazing Gallery at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — A month after comedian Maurizio Cattelan’s banana duct taped to a wall sold to a crypto entrepreneur for $6.2 million, people are still talking… and having a laugh.


Crowds gather outside Animazing Gallery at Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas to see The Six Million Dollar Man with Banana art for sale for $6 million.

Animazing Gallery in the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, is having a little fun with the viral sensation – today unveiling a piece featuring a vintage 1973 Kenner The Six Million Dollar Man plastic toy doll holding an acrylic banana taped to a piece of white foam board – and it is grabbing attention! The 18 1/2-inch by 13 1/20-inch piece by “Mr. Hide,” also available on Artsy.net (Mr. Hide | The Six Million Dollar Man with Banana (2024) | Available for Sale | Artsy) is priced at… you guessed it… $6 million. Could this be a playful mocking of the buyer of Cattelan’s piece?

“The $6.2 million banana duct taped to a wall has certainly been the talk of the art world,” said Nicholas Leone, owner of Animazing Gallery. “It has lent itself to weeks of playful jest and awe, so it is not surprising that our ‘Six Million Dollar Man with Banana’ is already attracting crowds and an endless parade of people taking selfies with the piece at Animazing Gallery.”

ABOUT ANIMAZING GALLERY

Animazing Gallery began in 1984 as a gallery specializing in conceptual animation art. Over time, the collection expanded to include works by a wide range of renowned illustrators and pop culture artists. Animazing Gallery has become an industry stronghold for illustration art and contemporary art inspired by the masters of illustration and hosts pop up events throughout the United States to celebrate its artists and their works.

Upon acquiring a collection of comic strips by Charles M. Schulz in 1995, the gallery began to focus on at American Illustrators. In the gallery’s search to find art exhibiting “the perfect line,” the owner soon discovered an important collection of drawings and watercolors by Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. The artwork was exhibited in numerous museum exhibitions. 

Owner Nicholas Leone serves as a consultant for numerous auction houses and handles gallery sales and acquisitions. The company’s featured gallery is located in the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas and features an abundant repertoire of classic illustrators and contemporary artists. 

Media Contact: Terry Wills
twills@willscom.com
310-877-1458

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SOURCE Animazing Gallery

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Bybit Web3 Wallet Integrates Tonstakers: The First of Its TON Staking Offerings to Expand DeFi Opportunities

DUBAI, UAE, Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange,is excited to announce the integration of Tonstakers, the leading liquid staking protocol on the TON blockchain, into its Web3 Wallet. This marks the first of Bybit Web3’s TON staking offerings, reinforcing its commitment to expanding decentralized finance (DeFi) opportunities for its users.

With this integration, Bybit Web3 Wallet users can now seamlessly stake Toncoin ($TON) and receive $tsTON (Tonstakers LST) in return. The value of $tsTON increases relative to $TON every 26 hours, ensuring competitive rewards while contributing to the growth and success of the TON ecosystem. The integration also opens the door for 130 million users in the TON ecosystem to access TON staking directly within the Bybit Web3 Wallet.

Bybit is dedicated to simplifying DeFi adoption by providing intuitive and user-friendly staking experiences. This milestone partnership with Tonstakers enables users to unlock annual returns estimated between 3% and 5% APY, with rewards automatically compounded, further cementing Bybit’s role as a leader in DeFi accessibility.

Why Tonstakers Matters: The First of Its Kind
Tonstakers is the inaugural partner in Bybit Web3’s TON staking initiative, setting a new standard for staking services. With a total value locked (TVL) exceeding $260 million and a significant market share in the liquid-staked TON sector, Tonstakers offers Bybit Web3 Wallet users unparalleled access to TON staking benefits:

  • Effortless Staking: Securely stake $TON with ease, thanks to the user-friendly interface within the Bybit Web3 Wallet.
  • Earn $tsTON Rewards: Receive tokenized staked Toncoin ($tsTON), which can be leveraged within DeFi applications across the TON ecosystem.
  • Explore DeFi Liquidity: Engage with Tonstakers Earn to provide liquidity using $tsTON, unlocking diverse earning opportunities.

“Bybit Web3 is proud to deepen our integration with the TON blockchain, a crucial step in our mission to foster a thriving and interconnected Web3 ecosystem,” said Emily Bao, Head of Bybit Web3. “This integration empowers our users with seamless and trusted access to TON liquid staking pools and unlocks valuable earning opportunities. As a strong believer in DeFi adoption, Bybit Web3 is committed to bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3, creating simple, easy, and accessible solutions that bring the benefits of decentralized finance to a wider audience. We believe this integration will significantly contribute to the growth and success of the TON ecosystem.”

Start Staking Today To begin staking your $TON and earning with $tsTON, visit https://www.bybit.com/en/web3/staking and discover the power of Bybit Web3 Wallet’s integration with Tonstakers. Bybit Web3 Wallet currently supports a wide range of staking services beyond TON tokens, including ETH, USDT, USDC, bbSOL, SUI, and more.

Bybit Web3 Wallet Integrates Tonstakers: The First of Its TON Staking Offerings to Expand DeFi Opportunities

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk / #BybitWeb3

About Bybit Web3

Bybit Web3 is redefining openness in the decentralized world, creating a simpler, open, and equal ecosystem for everyone. We are committed to welcoming builders, creators, and partners in the blockchain space, extending an invitation to both crypto enthusiasts and the curious, with a community of over 130 million wallet addresses across over 30 major ecosystem partners, and counting.

Bybit Web3 provides a comprehensive suite of Web3 products designed to make accessing, swapping, collecting and growing Web3 assets as open and simple as possible. Our wallets, marketplaces and platforms are all backed by the security and expertise that define Bybit as the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, trusted by over 60 million users globally.

Join the revolution now and open the door to your Web3 future with Bybit.

For more details about Bybit Web3, please visit Bybit Web3.

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

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Asset Tokenization Revolutionizes Investments in 2025

Asset tokenization, the process of creating digital representations of real-world assets on a blockchain, has emerged as a key trend in both traditional and crypto finance. As companies like BlackRock (NYSE:BLK), Visa (NYSE:V), and Mastercard (NYSE:MA) adopt tokenization strategies, the technology promises to transform how assets are traded, managed, and utilized. Despite some challenges, asset tokenization is set to redefine the financial landscape by increasing liquidity, cutting costs, and enhancing efficiency.

What Is Asset Tokenization?

Asset tokenization involves converting physical or intangible assets—such as real estate, bonds, or art—into digital tokens stored on a blockchain. These tokens can represent ownership, simplify transactions, and make traditionally illiquid assets more accessible to investors.

While the idea of tokenization has existed for years, its application has been limited. According to data tracker rwa.xyz, only 0.003% of the world’s assets have been tokenized. However, momentum is building as regulatory frameworks improve, and major institutions are exploring the technology’s potential.

Institutional Adoption: A Game-Changer

In 2024, BlackRock launched a tokenized money-market fund, signaling institutional confidence in the technology. Visa introduced a platform allowing banks to issue fiat-based tokens, and Mastercard partnered with JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM) to settle cross-border transactions on the Kinexys blockchain platform. Kinexys processes $2 billion in daily transactions, showcasing blockchain’s capacity to handle large-scale financial operations.

These moves are setting the stage for broader adoption. Boston Consulting Group predicts tokenized assets under management could exceed $600 billion by 2030, a massive leap from the current $2 billion.

“Tokenization creates efficiency and opens new markets,” says Raj Dhamodharan, Mastercard’s executive vice president of blockchain and digital assets.

Benefits of Asset Tokenization

Asset tokenization offers numerous advantages:

Liquidity: By breaking assets into smaller, tradeable tokens, investors gain access to markets traditionally reserved for high-net-worth individuals or institutions.

Reduced Costs: Blockchain reduces intermediaries, lowering transaction fees and operational expenses.

Speed: Transactions settle faster, especially for cross-border deals.

Programmability: Smart contracts can automate processes like escrow or dividend payments, reducing counterparty risk.

Rob Krugman, Chief Digital Officer at Broadridge, emphasizes tokenization’s transformative potential: “It may even be bigger than the internet. It’s fundamentally rethinking how markets work.”

Risks and Concerns

Despite its promise, asset tokenization presents risks. Poorly structured tokenization projects could lead to overpricing, investor exploitation, or exposure to security breaches.

Nathan Allman, CEO of Ondo Finance, cautions: “Outside of Treasuries, there’s little value in tokenized public securities. Many projects distribute low-quality assets.”

Additionally, tokenization may not suit all asset types. Carlos Domingo, CEO of Securitize, questions its application to real estate, while Noelle Acheson, author of Crypto Is Macro Now, views tokenized private equity as “a solution looking for a problem.”

Regulatory Shifts Pave the Way

A supportive regulatory environment is crucial for tokenization’s growth. The U.S. under President-elect Donald Trump is expected to adopt a more favorable stance, encouraging innovation in blockchain-based financial products.

For instance, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is exploring guidelines for using tokenized assets as collateral, further legitimizing their role in mainstream finance.

Charlie You, co-founder of rwa.xyz, observes: “Regulatory clarity is accelerating timelines. Companies are now making things happen.”

Future Outlook

As tokenization gains traction, the financial industry is poised for a transformative shift. While challenges remain, the combination of institutional adoption, regulatory clarity, and technological advancements signals a bright future.

Asset tokenization isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a movement reshaping how investors interact with markets. Whether it’s tokenized Treasuries, real estate, or art, the ability to fractionalize ownership and improve efficiency is unlocking new possibilities in finance.

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Bitcoin Price Predictions for 2025: What to Expect

The cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, with Bitcoin price predictions fueling investor enthusiasm. Bitcoin (BTCUSD) broke the $100,000 mark in 2024, driven by surging institutional demand and regulatory optimism. As 2025 approaches, analysts and market participants are closely watching for clues about Bitcoin’s next big move.

The Role of Regulation in Bitcoin’s Future

A significant factor shaping Bitcoin’s future is regulatory clarity. The election of Donald Trump and crypto-friendly lawmakers has ignited optimism within the cryptocurrency sector. Trump has pledged to remove SEC Chair Gary Gensler and appoint crypto advocate Paul Atkins to lead the agency.

While these developments inspire hope, there’s uncertainty about how quickly comprehensive regulation will materialize. Castle Island Ventures Partner Nic Carter suggests that stablecoin legislation will take precedence, followed by a crypto market structure bill to clarify whether assets are securities or commodities.

The regulatory environment could profoundly influence Bitcoin price predictions, with a clear framework likely to attract more institutional investors. However, as Sarah Brennan of Delphi Ventures notes, Trump’s stance on decentralized finance (DeFi) remains inconsistent, adding an element of unpredictability.

Bitcoin’s Price Potential: $200,000 by 2025?

Analysts have issued bold forecasts for Bitcoin’s price trajectory in 2025. Bitwise projects Bitcoin could reach $200,000, while VanEck estimates a more conservative $180,000. These predictions hinge on continued institutional adoption and the lasting impact of the 2024 Bitcoin halving event, which reduced the supply of new coins entering circulation.

Bitcoin’s finite supply—capped at 21 million coins—is a key driver behind these optimistic projections. With 19.79 million coins already in circulation, scarcity continues to push demand.

Institutional interest further bolsters these predictions. Spot Bitcoin ETFs have attracted over $36 billion in investments, and corporations like MicroStrategy (NASDAQ:MSTR) hold significant Bitcoin reserves. As of December 2024, MicroStrategy owned 444,262 BTC, worth approximately $42 billion.

Despite these bullish trends, historical patterns suggest caution. Bitcoin operates on a four-year halving cycle, typically leading to market corrections. However, economist Alex Kruger believes Bitcoin is in a “supercycle,” characterized by smaller corrections of 20%-40%, rather than the drastic 85% drawdowns seen in the past.

Macro Factors That Could Impact Bitcoin

External economic conditions remain a wildcard for Bitcoin’s performance in 2025. The Federal Reserve’s decision to slow interest rate cuts could dampen Bitcoin’s appeal compared to traditional assets like Treasury bonds. High Treasury yields might divert investor capital away from riskier assets, including Bitcoin.

Nonetheless, Bitcoin’s established role as “digital gold” could insulate it from broader economic headwinds. Its decentralized nature and growing institutional backing position it as a hedge against inflation and economic instability.

Will Altcoins Follow Bitcoin’s Lead?

While Bitcoin has dominated the cryptocurrency narrative, questions remain about the fate of altcoins. The Bitcoin Dominance Index, which measures Bitcoin’s share of the total crypto market, has reached new highs, suggesting Bitcoin continues to outpace its peers.

Financial institutions are exploring ETFs for assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum (ETHUSD), including XRP (XRPUSD). However, it’s uncertain whether these altcoins will enjoy the same level of enthusiasm. Seth Ginns of CoinFund notes that Bitcoin’s dominance has historically been cyclical, with altcoins gaining traction only after Bitcoin significantly surpasses its previous highs.

Conclusion

The year 2025 promises to be pivotal for Bitcoin and the broader cryptocurrency market. With Bitcoin price predictions ranging from $180,000 to $200,000, the stage is set for significant developments. Institutional interest, regulatory clarity, and macroeconomic factors will play crucial roles in determining whether Bitcoin achieves these ambitious milestones.

While Bitcoin leads the charge, the fate of altcoins and the broader crypto market remains uncertain. As investors navigate this rapidly evolving landscape, the focus will remain on how regulation and institutional adoption reshape the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

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Markets Show Resilience Ahead of End-of-Year Options Expirations: Bybit x Block Scholes Crypto Derivatives Report

DUBAI, UAE, Dec. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, released the latest Crypto Derivatives Analytics Report in collaboration with Block Scholes, highlighting the muted market volatility despite major options expirations on Friday. BTC and ETH’s realized volatility has increased, but short-term options haven’t adjusted to this change. This indicates that while spot prices are fluctuating, the options market is not fully reacting to these shifts, although BTC and ETH volumes have displayed slightly different patterns.

With more than $525 million in BTC and ETH options contracts expiring on Dec 27, 2024’s end-of-year options expiration looks set to be one of the biggest yet, yet expectations for volatility have remained subdued. The report highlights an unusual inversion in ETH’s volatility structure, but BTC has not mirrored the reaction. Additionally, a change in funding rates—sometimes turning negative as spot prices drop—signals a new market phase. Notably, BTC’s volatility structure has been less responsive to changes in spot prices, whereas ETH’s short-term options are exhibiting more noticeable fluctuations.

Key Findings:

BTC Options Expirations:

In the past month, BTC’s realized volatility has been higher than implied volatility on three occasions, each time reaching a relatively calm equilibrium. Open interest in BTC options remains high, contributing to potential increased volatility as we near the end of the year. Around $360 million worth of BTC options (both puts and calls) are set to expire soon, which can affect price movement.

ETH Options: Calls Dominate

Sources: Bybit, Block Scholes

Despite a mid-week inversion, ETH’s volatility term structure has flattened, maintaining levels similar to those seen over the past month. In the final week of 2024, calls overwhelmed puts in open interest in ETH options, although market movements and trading activities are more on the put side. 

Access the Full Report:

Gain deeper insights and explore the potential impacts on your crypto trading strategies by downloading the full report here: Bybit X Block Scholes Crypto Derivatives Analytics Report (Dec 24, 2024)

#Bybit / #BybitResearch

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com

For more information, please visit: https://www.bybit.com

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