GM. Ripple is exploring native staking for the XRP Ledger, a move that could redefine validator incentives and expand the network’s potential in decentralized finance.

Meanwhile, Aztec launched its privacy-centric Ignition Chain, crypto groups urged Trump to fast-track tax guidance, and BlackRock registered a Staked Ethereum Trust in Delaware.

Staking, secrecy, and policy heat up to close the week. 👇

Ripple Explores Native Staking to Expand XRP Utility

Ripple is considering adding native staking to the XRP Ledger to broaden its role in decentralized finance applications. The proposal, introduced Wednesday by RippleX Head of Engineering J. Ayo Akinyele, would realign network incentives between validators and token holders.

Akinyele said staking could strengthen participation and security but would require replacing XRPL’s current fee-burning model with a new rewards mechanism. Such changes could challenge the ledger’s Proof of Association framework, which prioritizes validator reputation and stability.

Outgoing Ripple CTO David Schwartz said the discussion signals an important stage in the network’s governance and programmability. He outlined two early concepts, a two-layer validator design and a zero-knowledge proof fee model, though both remain impractical for now.

Both executives emphasized the ideas remain exploratory as Ripple assesses XRPL’s long-term consensus and economic direction. Akinyele noted experiments by Uphold, Flare, and Axelar show growing developer interest without requiring protocol-level changes.

Aztec Launches Privacy-Focuse Ignition Chain Layer 2

Aztec Network has launched its privacy-focused Layer 2 Ignition Chain on Ethereum mainnet following its AZTEC token sale. The decentralized network enables programmable privacy and recorded 500 validators at launch, triggering block production and confirming full mainnet activation. Co-founder Zac Williamson said the milestone advances Aztec’s vision of a “private world computer” built on ZK proofs.

The team said Ignition Chain addresses transparency challenges on Ethereum by preserving verifiability while ensuring end-to-end transaction confidentiality. Validators require 200,000 AZTEC tokens for activation, aligning network participation with security incentives. Aztec said more than $2.5 million in bids from 1,925 participants have been registered ahead of the public auction on Dec. 2.

Crypto Groups Urge Trump to Fast-Track Guidance

Over 65 crypto organizations have urged President Donald Trump to direct Treasury and the IRS to expedite crypto tax rules. The Solana Policy Institute and firms including Uniswap Labs and Mysten Labs said delayed federal action hinders innovation and global competitiveness. They proposed applying de minimis rules, setting a $600 transaction threshold, and clarifying staking and mining taxation.

The coalition also called for exemptive relief for DeFi and urged the DOJ to dismiss Tornado Cash charges. They said dropping the case against developer Roman Storm would reaffirm that “code is speech” under the First Amendment. Lawmakers such as Sen. Cynthia Lummis have also introduced legislation to simplify reporting and end double taxation on staking rewards.

BlackRock Registers Staked Ethereum Trust in Delaware

BlackRock has registered the iShares Staked Ethereum Trust in Delaware, marking a preparatory step toward staking-enabled ETF products. The move follows October’s SEC approval of staking features in Grayscale’s ETH fund, setting a regulated precedent for passing rewards to shareholders. Analysts said the filing reflects institutional momentum toward integrating staking into US investment vehicles.

The trust’s formation coincides with modest trading in early staking ETFs like REX Osprey’s ETH + Staking fund. BlackRock previously filed to allow reward distribution within its iShares Ethereum Trust, citing income treatment considerations. Staking remains under regulatory scrutiny because it involves validator selection, slashing risk, and custody complexity distinct from passive asset holding.

Data of the day

A Zerohash survey found 35% of US investors aged 18-40 switched advisers due to limited crypto exposure. Those earning $100,000-$1 million said restricted digital-asset access led them to reallocate $250,000-$1 million. Zerohash said the results show rising frustration among younger investors seeking insured, compliant crypto integration across wealth-management platforms.

Over 80% of respondents said confidence rose due to institutional adoption by firms like BlackRock and Fidelity. Nearly 84% plan to increase crypto holdings next year, with half expecting “significant” allocation growth. Zerohash said advisers who adapt early can retain loyalty, while those who delay risk losing clients to crypto-ready competitors.

More breaking news

• The proposed Bitcoin for America Act would let taxpayers settle federal obligations in Bitcoin, directing proceeds to a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve to diversify national wealth.

• 21Shares launched a leveraged Dogecoin ETF as FalconX completed its acquisition, combining trading infrastructure and asset management to expand global crypto investment products.

• Samourai Wallet CTO William Hill was sentenced to four years in prison for operating an unlicensed money transmitter that processed $2 billion in Bitcoin.

• Coinbase introduced ETH-backed loans through Morpho, allowing verified users to borrow up to $1 million in USDC without selling their long-term crypto holdings.

• MEXC partnered with Hacken to conduct monthly Proof-of-Reserves audits, providing independently verified asset backing and enhanced transparency across its global trading platform.

• Bitwise launched a spot XRP ETF on the New York Stock Exchange, joining a wave of new altcoin funds amid expanding SEC guidance on crypto products.

• Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest increased its stakes in Bullish, Circle, and BitMine across ETFs, doubling down on crypto exposure despite sliding digital asset valuations.

• Bitcoin whale Owen Gunden sold his entire $1.3 billion portfolio as institutional ownership of Bitcoin ETFs climbed to a record 40% of total holdings.

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