Weekly Article Recap: 5/05-5/09

The Stories that You Can’t Afford to Miss This Week

As the DeFi and crypto space continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it's essential to stay informed 

about the latest developments and trends. Our weekly recap provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the most significant news and trends in the DeFi and crypto space, helping you stay informed and up-to-date with the latest happenings.

Vaneck Files for BNB ETF with the SEC

Asset manager VanEck has filed an S-1 with the U.S. SEC to launch the “VanEck BNB ETF,” aiming to offer regulated exposure to Binance Coin (BNB). The move follows the fund’s earlier registration in Delaware on April 2. If approved, the ETF would let investors trade BNB on the stock market without using crypto platforms.

Learn about the VanEck BNB ETF.

What Does Ethereum Pectra Upgrade Mean for the Ecosystem?

Ethereum has officially deployed its Pectra upgrade, going live on May 7, 2025, at epoch 364032. Confirmed by Ethereum Foundation's Tim Beiko, the update introduces key enhancements aimed at improving scalability, streamlining transactions, and enhancing user and developer experience across the network. Further testing of included Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs) is ongoing.

Find out the features of Ethereum’s Pectra upgrade.

New Hampshire Becomes First US State to Create a Bitcoin Reserve Fund

New Hampshire has become the first U.S. state to authorize a Bitcoin reserve, following the signing of House Bill 302 (HB 302) by Governor Kelly Ayotte. The new law allows the state to invest up to 5% of its general funds in Bitcoin and other qualified assets, including precious metals and digital currencies with a market cap over $500 billion—currently, only Bitcoin meets that threshold.

The law also empowers the state treasurer to manage these assets through self-custody or regulated third-party custodians, including exchange-traded products.

Read the full story. 

Maldives Plans to Triple GDP with $9B Crypto Hub

The Maldives has signed a $9 billion deal with Dubai’s MBS Global Investments to develop a crypto and blockchain hub in Malé. The May 4 joint venture aims to diversify the island nation's economy beyond tourism and fisheries, targeting foreign investment and Web3 growth.

Details in the article.

FlokiHub Launches Web3 Identity Platform with $FLOKI Integration

FLOKI has unveiled FlokiHub, a Web3 identity platform built in partnership with SPACE ID Protocol. Launched on May 8, the platform lets users create .floki domain-based profiles on BNB Chain, showcasing crypto wallets, NFTs, social links, and more in one place.

Read the full story.