This Week in Crypto: From Ether to Libra, News Highlights

BitFlyer Embraces Ether with New Trading Pair

On September 25, BitFlyer, the Tokyo-based cryptocurrency exchange, announced the addition of the Ether (ETH)/Japanese yen (JPY) trading pair to its platform, BitFlyer Lightning. This new feature is specifically designed for professional traders looking to diversify their portfolios in the fast-paced crypto market.

But that’s not all! On the same day, BitFlyer revealed it would also be adding five exciting altcoins to its European and U.S. platforms, including Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Ethereum Classic (ETC), Litecoin (LTC), Lisk (LSK), and Monacoin (MONA). As if it were a game show, “Welcome to the world of crypto! What’s behind the curtain? A shiny new trading option!”

Commercial Blockchain Ventures on the Horizon

In a significant move, the CBSG Consortium, led by blockchain innovator TBCASoft and Japanese giant SoftBank, announced plans to develop a commercial blockchain solution for payment systems by early 2020. Nozaki Daichi, SoftBank’s executive officer, expressed optimism, stating that this initiative could offer a competitive edge to stakeholders involved.

Inclusivity on Ethereum.org

Mark it on your calendar! September 27 marks the day Ethereum.org became more accessible by rolling out a Japanese language option. This upgrade brings much-needed inclusivity by supporting five languages: English, French, Korean, simplified Chinese, and now Japanese, thanks to the hard-working volunteers of Ethereum Japan. “Your crypto journey just got a little less lost in translation!”

Bitpoint Japan Set to Resume Services

Bitpoint Japan is officially making a comeback! After halting operations in July due to irregular activities in its hot wallet that led to a staggering loss of $32 million, the exchange announced plans to resume its cryptocurrency delivery services on September 30. “You can take the Bitpoint out of the market, but you can’t take the market out of the Bitpoint!”

Matsumoto Weighs in on Facebook’s Libra

In a recent interview, Oki Matsumoto, the CEO of Monex Group, shared his thoughts on Facebook’s infamous stablecoin project, Libra, saying it has “opened Pandora’s box.” He highlights two main concerns: widespread distrust in Facebook’s ability to protect user privacy and the potential impacts on monetary policy in developing countries. It’s a lot to unpack, but as Matsumoto puts it, “When it comes to Libra, tread carefully; you might unleash something you didn’t expect!”