Blockchain
Italian crypto fund Iconium invests in Italian Metaverse platform OVER
Iconium, a leading Italian crypto investment fund specializing in digital assets and blockchain projects promoting decentralization and everything Web3.0, announces its second investment in Italy’s OVER, a decentralized Metaverse platform curating geolocalized AR/VR experiences. Through the ongoing partnership between the two Italian-based companies, Iconium supports OVER’s push to bring a community-owned Metaverse platform utilizing NFTs.
Italy’s quietly burgeoning crypto and blockchain scene is backed by a strong community of entrepreneurs and technical talent leading a diverse collection of startups, excelling especially in fintech and cybersecurity. While places like Silicon Valley, Singapore, Tel Aviv, and London get a lion’s share of the attention for being global blockchain hubs, Italy’s growing scene of blockchain-based businesses is putting the industry on notice.
The partnership between Iconium and OVER is rooted in their shared view that decentralization can bring about a Web3.0 revolution. Iconium first invested in OVER’s Seed round in 2021, before deciding to make another investment in the Metaverse platform earlier this year. During this period, both Iconium and OVER have experienced mutual growth and success. Recent highlights include Iconium’s investment in the $225 million Secret Ecosystem Fund and OVER’s increase in land sales on its platform, and the launch of a new version of its app that includes the precise geo-localization feature Map2earn.
Iconium is an all-encompassing crypto investment fund supporting a diverse range of decentralized projects and startups across every phase of their journey, ensuring maximum growth. As a principle, Iconium prioritizes blockchain-based projects related to disintermediation, decentralized finance (DeFi), and self-sovereignty with high disruptive potential. Since 2018 Iconium has backed more than 80 projects, investing $80 million across different segments such as DeFi, Web3.0, Layer-1 and Layer-2 scalability solutions, and the Metaverse. Iconium plans to invest another $60 million in the next two years.
OVER’s community-owned Metaverse leverages NFTs to bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds through advanced geolocation. OVER users have already visited 1.6 million locations as part of its Pokémon GO-styled treasure hunt. Using the platform requires only a regular smartphone camera. OVER, formerly OVR, recently went through a rebranding to better align with their vision of building a persistent and decentralized digital layer OVER the physical world.
“OVER represents an ideal partner as a crypto investment fund focusing on disruptive Web3.0 projects,” says Fabio Pezzotti, Iconium’s Founder and CEO. “We see its Metaverse platform as an innovative and engaging application of blockchain technology and NFTs. We love supporting local startups, but we would have invested in OVER regardless of where they are from—we are very proud, however, that they represent Italy.”
“From early on, Iconium has supported our vision and worked closely with us throughout the development stages,” says Davide Cuttini, OVER’s CEO and Co-Founder. “We look forward to continuing this partnership and we are excited to see where the journey takes us.”
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Blockchain
Blocks & Headlines: Today in Blockchain (BlackRock, Plume, SEALSQ, Hedera, Deutsche Bank, KuCoin)
Blockchain technology continues to drive innovation across industries, reshaping finance, infrastructure, and philanthropy. Today’s news roundup explores exciting developments in blockchain ETFs, tokenization funding, quantum-resistant chips, public blockchain initiatives, and impactful social projects. Here’s a deep dive into the latest blockchain headlines:
BlackRock ETF Embraces Blockchain with First Muni Bond Purchase
BlackRock’s blockchain-focused ETF has made its first foray into municipal bonds, signaling increased confidence in integrating blockchain technology with traditional finance. The ETF’s strategic investment demonstrates how blockchain can enhance transparency and efficiency in bond markets.
By tokenizing municipal bonds, BlackRock aims to simplify trading and settlement processes while reducing associated costs. This development underscores the growing role of blockchain in transforming financial instruments and fostering greater market accessibility.
Source: Yahoo Finance
Plume Secures Funding for Tokenization Platform
Blockchain fintech company Plume has raised significant funding to advance its tokenization platform. The company’s innovative approach enables businesses to convert real-world assets into digital tokens, streamlining asset management and unlocking liquidity.
Tokenization is rapidly gaining traction as a game-changer in sectors such as real estate, art, and commodities. Plume’s success reflects a broader trend of investment in blockchain solutions that bridge the gap between traditional assets and decentralized technologies.
Source: Fortune
SEALSQ and Hedera Partner for Quantum-Resistant Blockchain Chips
SEALSQ and Hedera have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to develop quantum-resistant chips designed to secure blockchain infrastructure. These advanced chips will provide robust protection against future quantum computing threats, ensuring the integrity of blockchain networks.
As quantum computing capabilities evolve, safeguarding blockchain ecosystems becomes increasingly critical. This partnership highlights the importance of proactive measures in maintaining the resilience and trustworthiness of decentralized systems.
Source: The Quantum Insider
Deutsche Bank’s Public, Permissioned Blockchain Initiative
Deutsche Bank’s Layer 2 blockchain solution is set to go public and operate as a permissioned network, according to its tech partner. This initiative aims to strike a balance between accessibility and security, leveraging blockchain to streamline financial services and enhance operational efficiency.
The decision to adopt a public, permissioned model reflects a growing trend among enterprises seeking to harness the benefits of decentralization while maintaining control over sensitive data. Deutsche Bank’s approach could serve as a blueprint for other financial institutions exploring blockchain adoption.
Source: CoinDesk
KuCoin’s “Light Up Africa” Initiative Brings Hope to Thousands
Cryptocurrency exchange KuCoin has made a significant impact through its “Light Up Africa” donation ceremony in Ghana, benefiting 36,000 children across the continent. The initiative combines blockchain technology with philanthropy to address energy poverty and support education.
By leveraging blockchain for transparency in charitable contributions, KuCoin sets an example of how the crypto industry can drive meaningful social change. The project demonstrates the potential of blockchain to empower communities and foster sustainable development.
Source: PR Newswire
Industry Implications and Key Takeaways
Today’s developments highlight the transformative potential of blockchain across multiple domains:
- Integration with Traditional Finance: BlackRock’s ETF underscores the synergy between blockchain and established financial systems.
- Tokenization Trends: Plume’s funding success reflects the growing demand for digital asset solutions.
- Quantum-Resistant Technologies: SEALSQ and Hedera’s partnership addresses emerging cybersecurity challenges.
- Enterprise Blockchain Adoption: Deutsche Bank’s public, permissioned network showcases the adaptability of blockchain in financial services.
- Social Impact: KuCoin’s philanthropic efforts illustrate blockchain’s capacity to drive positive societal outcomes.
The post Blocks & Headlines: Today in Blockchain (BlackRock, Plume, SEALSQ, Hedera, Deutsche Bank, KuCoin) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
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