Polkadot is poised for a significant upgrade, as its parent company, **Parity Technologies**, has announced the expected release of **Polkadot 2.0** by the first quarter of 2025. This announcement marks a major development in the blockchain technology world, with advancements that promise to enhance network performance significantly. [1](https://x.com/WuBlockchain/status/1862495995722178986)

One of the notable features set to be introduced with Polkadot 2.0 is **Elastic Scaling**. This feature is engineered to improve the scalability of the network by allowing a single parallel chain to use multiple cores, thereby expanding the network's performance capabilities. Such a development is crucial for supporting the increasing demand and ensuring robust performance for various blockchain applications.

Currently, Elastic Scaling is under rigorous testing on the **Kusama network**, a public pre-production environment for Polkadot, where developers can experiment and roll out new innovative solutions in a real-world setting. Testing on Kusama ensures that these new features are thoroughly vetted before their official release, promising a seamless transition once Polkadot 2.0 is launched.

This strategic step by Parity Technologies not only highlights Polkadot's commitment to advancing blockchain technology but also positions it strongly among other blockchain networks, catering to a broader array of decentralized applications and use cases.

As the blockchain community awaits the full-scale launch of Polkadot 2.0, the enhancements anticipated with this upgrade could set new standards in innovation and technology application within the cryptocurrency space. These developments reflect a growing emphasis on creating more scalable, efficient, and robust blockchain solutions.

Polkadot 2.0 to launch with new features in 2025

Polkadot 2.0 Launches Q1 2025

PiP World, known for its previous acquisition of a **Roblox stock simulator**, is now making strides in the gaming world by introducing a novel **Telegram-based game** called Gold Rush. The release of this game marks another effort to establish a robust ecosystem within the web3 space and extend their reach among users from both Roblox and Telegram platforms. [1](https://x.com/TheBlock__/status/1836777923602235569)

Gold Rush, which launched on Thursday, allows players to start as interns and work their way up to becoming hedge fund managers, simulating a gamified financial literacy experience. According to PiP World's CEO Saad Naja, this move aims to further expand their ecosystem leading to the release of their upcoming blockchain-based mobile video game, PiP Trader, planned for later this year.

The web3 gaming ecosystem, including games like **Notcoin, Hamster Kombat**, and **Catizen**, has seen a surge in activity thanks to platforms like Telegram. However, it remains to be seen whether the appeal lies in gameplay enjoyment or the allure of potential financial rewards. Many Telegram games, including Gold Rush, utilize the **TON blockchain**, a notable protocol initially developed by Telegram.

By leveraging Telegram's extensive user base and innovative blockchain technology, **PiP World** continues to explore the intersection of gaming and financial education, potentially offering a unique gaming experience that blends economic concepts with interactive play.

PiP World unveils a new Telegram game, Gold Rush.

PiP World Expands with Telegram Game Launch

The crypto world is abuzz with the recent development from [@SolanaFloor](https://x.com/SolanaFloor) "**Solana Seeker**," a revolutionary product from the [@solanamobile](https://x.com/solanamobile) initiative, has made significant waves in the blockchain community. It recently surpassed **140,000 preorders**, marking an impressive milestone for the project. [1](https://x.com/SolanaFloor/status/1836681180080455998)  
  
Initially introduced under the name "**SolanaMobile Chapter 2**," the Solana Seeker has undergone rebranding, reflecting the project's dynamic evolution. The success of reaching over 140,000 preorders is not only a testament to the cryptocurrency's growing influence but also a clear indicator of the increasing consumer interest and potential market impact of Solana's initiatives.  
  
The achievement comes as part of the broader efforts by Solana to embed itself deeper into the blockchain ecosystem, providing users with advanced and innovative solutions. Solana's strategic expansion into mobile technology and other sectors highlights their commitment to pioneering avant-garde blockchain and mobile technologies that cater to the modern user.  
  
This development emphasizes Solana's role in leading innovation in the crypto space and setting new benchmarks for involvement and adoption in the digital era.  

This surge in preorder numbers signifies more than just interest; it's a validation of Solana's efforts to revolutionize user experiences with their cutting-edge technological advancements.  

As Solana continues to push boundaries, the response to the Solana Seeker sets a promising precedent for future ventures and breakthroughs.

Solana Seeker reaches 140,000 preorders in record time.

Solana Seeker Hits 140,000 Preorders

In a recent update, cybersecurity firm **PeckShield** has issued a crucial alert regarding a security breach involving the **Decentraland** platform. Users have been warned that Decentraland's official X account has been compromised, resulting in the creation of a phishing site. [1](https://x.com/PeckShieldAlert/status/1836651496307659157)

The phishing site in question is **launch-decentraland[.]org**, which has been falsely presented as legitimate. The alert emphasizes that users should **not click the link** until further official announcements are made from Decentraland or PeckShield.

This situation underscores the ongoing risks within the **cryptocurrency space** and highlights the need for vigilance among users engaging with blockchain platforms. Phishing attacks remain a prevalent threat, aiming to deceive users into disclosing sensitive information.

PeckShield's swift identification and alert about this breach are a reminder of the importance of timely and effective responses to security threats. As users await updates from Decentraland, they are advised to exercise caution and remain informed through trusted sources.

PeckShield alerts on Decentraland account breach.

Decentraland Account Compromised Alert

Solana, known for its innovations in blockchain and cryptocurrency, has unveiled a groundbreaking development in the form of the "**Solana Seeker**," a new smartphone that leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance user interaction. [The announcement was made by](https://x.com/SolanaFloor/status/1836623657612792153) [@SolanaMobile](https://x.com/SolanaMobile), the latest venture by Solana to diversify and strengthen its ecosystem.

One of the standout features of the Solana Seeker is its capability to enable users to create **tokenized AI agents** in collaboration with [@real_alethea](https://x.com/real_alethea) These AI agents are not merely digital assistants but are designed to engage with decentralized applications (**dApps**) and programs that are intrinsic to the Solana ecosystem.

This integration of AI with Solana's blockchain infrastructure represents a significant stride in bridging the gap between AI technology and decentralized platforms, offering users a more seamless and interactive experience. The implication of such advancements could potentially lead to an array of new applications and use-case scenarios within the world of **decentralized finance (DeFi)**, AI-driven dApps interaction, and more.

The Solana Seeker is expected to not just raise the bar for smart device functionality but also chart a new course for how smartphones might intersect with blockchain and AI technology going forward. This innovative move is seen as a step towards making **Web3** technologies more accessible and practical for everyday users, as Solana continues to innovate and lead in the technological frontier with its ambitious projects and partnerships.

Solana launches phone with AI agent integration

Solana Launches "Solana Seeker" AI Phone

**Token Terminal** has drawn attention with its presence at **TOKEN2049 Singapore**, a major blockchain conference. [@SebastianMotel1](https://x.com/SebastianMotel1) shared his excitement about attending the event. He encouraged attendees interested in discussing **chain integration** or **application listings** to directly message him for a meeting. . [1](https://x.com/tokenterminal/status/1836373281416331349)

TOKEN2049 serves as a vibrant platform for conversations around blockchain technology. In a quoted tweet by Token Terminal’s Twitter account, they invited interested parties to explore topics like **L1/L2/L3 integrations** and **app listings with standardized on-chain financials**. This underscores the conference's goal of facilitating fruitful discussions among industry participants. [1](https://x.com/tokenterminal/status/1836373281416331349)

The event promises a blend of insightful talks, networking opportunities, and a focus on **quality-filtered fundamental metrics**. With such gatherings, the blockchain community continues to push the boundaries of innovation and collaboration.

TOKEN2049 Singapore host industry talks and networking

Key Highlights from TOKEN2049 Singapore Event

Global cryptocurrency exchange **Bitstamp** is setting its sights on **Australia** as part of its strategic push to expand its **institutional business**. This development is part of Bitstamp's broader efforts to grow its footprint in the **Asia Pacific region**, especially following Robinhood’s announced plan to acquire the exchange for $200 million. [1](https://x.com/TheBlock__/status/1836315502337044505)

Bobby Zagotta, Bitstamp's global chief commercial officer, highlighted in an interview at the Token2049 conference in Singapore that the company sees substantial potential in serving institutional clients across Asia. [@TheBlock__](https://x.com/TheBlock__) "We see Asia as a great opportunity," Zagotta stated, naming **Hong Kong** and **Singapore** as primary markets while highlighting Australia’s growing importance.

Zagotta, who is also the CEO of Bitstamp US, noted that local operators primarily serve Australian exchange companies, suggesting Bitstamp's value propositions as a global exchange could offer unique benefits. He mentioned competitors like Binance and Kraken are present but with limited influence, giving Bitstamp an opportunity to innovate and capture market share.

Currently, Asia represents 20% of Bitstamp's global revenue share, whereas Europe commands about 65%. The focus on Australia is poised to diversify Bitstamp's geographic revenue streams, offering unique advantages in a market with limited choices. [1](https://x.com/TheBlock__/status/1836315502337044505)

Moreover, the planned $200 million **Robinhood acquisition** scheduled for completion in the first half of 2025, underscores Bitstamp's strategic long-term vision, potentially enhancing its operational capabilities and market reach.

As Bitstamp pushes for growth, both **Zagotta** and industry analysts are keenly observing the impact this move will have on the exchange market dynamics in Australia and beyond.

Bitstamp plans Australia expansion for institutional growth

Bitstamp Targets Australia for Expansion

In a significant development in the Web3 space, **Coinbase Ventures** has emerged as the lead investor in a $5 million funding round for **Vana**, a pioneering startup focused on creating a **network of user-owned data pools**. **Vana**, which aims at bridging the gap between **blockchain and AI**, announced this milestone, marking the company's total funding to date at $25 million. [1](https://x.com/TheBlock__/status/1836248061250556066)

This strategic funding round follows Vana's previous success, where it secured significant investment from **Paradigm**, a prominent cryptocurrency venture capital firm, through an $18 million Series A round. Vana's unique proposition lies in establishing decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) whereby internet users can pool their data from platforms such as **Reddit** and monetize it, potentially earning income by selling these data sets to AI researchers.

**Anna Kazlauskas**, Vana's co-founder and CEO, highlights the potential for individuals to become stakeholders in the future trajectory of artificial intelligence. Kazlauskas stresses the greater value in personal data from platforms requiring logins, boosting its attractiveness to AI model developers. Vana's DAOs aim to harness such data, which is more protected and hence more valuable.

Among Vana’s pioneering moves is the launch of a **Reddit DAO**, enabling Reddit users to congregate their platform history into a monetizable data pool. This initiative attracted approximately 140,000 users, with individuals reportedly earning between $300 to $400 from their data contributions. This endeavor exemplifies Vana’s objective of empowering users by transforming them into stakeholders within AI’s evolution.

The startup envisions a future with a robust network of over a dozen data-focused DAOs. Vana’s network not only supports AI model enhancement but also participates in redefining data ownership and income generation for internet users.

Coinbase Ventures invests in Vana's user-owned data network.