BBVA gets nod to offer Bitcoin and Ethereum trading services in Spain

  • BBVA customers in Spain will soon be able to trade Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH)
  • The bank will roll out the crypto trading services in phases
  • First, the bank will allow a select group of customers to test the services before expanding it to retail customers

Spain’s Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA), the country’s second-largest bank, has received regulatory approval from the Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores (CNMV) to offer Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) trading services.

Following the approval by the securities regulator, BBVA announced that its clients will soon be able to buy, sell, and manage BTC and ETH directly through its mobile banking app, a move that underscores the growing convergence of legacy banking and digital assets.

This development positions BBVA as a trailblazer among European banks, capitalizing on the increasing demand for crypto-related services. With Bitcoin (BTC) trading at approximately $82,808 and Ethereum (ETH) at $2,118, the bank aims to tap into a market that has seen explosive growth and institutional interest.

Notably, BBVA’s decision reflects a broader trend of traditional financial institutions adapting to the evolving preferences of tech-savvy customers, many of whom view cryptocurrencies as both an investment opportunity and a hedge against economic uncertainty.

A phased rollout approach

BBVA will roll out its crypto trading in phases. Initially, the service will be available to a select group of users, allowing the bank to test and refine its platform before a wider rollout.

Afterwards, the lender will gradually expand access to all private banking customers across Spain.

This cautious yet deliberate strategy highlights BBVA’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and secure experience for its clients, leveraging its own cryptographic key custody platform to maintain full control over digital asset holdings without relying on third-party providers.

The bank’s proprietary custody solution is a key differentiator. By keeping customer assets in-house, BBVA aims to enhance security and trust—crucial factors in a sector often plagued by concerns over hacks and mismanagement.

This move also aligns with the bank’s long-standing emphasis on technological innovation, positioning it as a leader in the digital transformation of finance.

Building on the rising crypto adoption trends

BBVA’s crypto journey is not a sudden leap, but a calculated expansion of efforts that began years ago. In June 2021, the bank launched Bitcoin custody and trading services for private banking clients in Switzerland, where regulatory clarity provided an early foothold.

Since then, BBVA’s Swiss branch has broadened its offerings to include ETH and the USDC stablecoin after partnering with Ripple’s Metaco, catering to a sophisticated clientele comfortable with digital assets.

More recently, in January 2025, BBVA’s Turkish subsidiary, Garanti BBVA Kripto, introduced crypto trading services to the public, further solidifying the bank’s global footprint in this space.

The approval in Spain builds on these successes, adapting lessons learned from Switzerland and Turkey to meet the unique needs of the Spanish market.

With each step, BBVA is demonstrating a strategic vision to integrate cryptocurrencies into its core offerings, aligning with shifting regulatory and consumer landscapes.

Notably, the timing of BBVA’s Spanish rollout coincides with the full implementation of the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), which took effect at the end of 2024. MiCA establishes a harmonized framework for crypto services across the EU, providing banks and firms with the legal clarity needed to operate confidently.

Under this regulation, companies have until July 2026 to achieve full compliance during an 18-month transitional phase, giving BBVA ample time to refine its operations.

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Utah lawmakers approve amended Bitcoin bill

  • The state of Utah has passed its Bitcoin bill, but has dropped the Bitcoin reserve plan
  • The approved bill protects mining, staking, and self-custody rights
  • The bill now awaits Governor Cox’s signature, after which it will become effective starting May 2025

On March 7, 2025, Utah lawmakers took a significant step toward integrating cryptocurrency into the state’s legal framework by passing its amended Bitcoin bill.

Notably, though, HB230, the “Blockchain and Digital Innovation Amendments” bill, no longer includes its original groundbreaking provision to establish a state Bitcoin reserve. Approved by the Senate in a 19-7-3 vote, it focuses on fostering a supportive environment for blockchain technology and protecting residents’ rights to engage with digital assets.

The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Spencer Cox, who has not yet indicated his stance. If signed into law, it will take effect on May 7, 2025. This will make Utah a progressive player in the US cryptocurrency landscape, even without the reserve clause that once promised to make it a pioneer.

The Bitcoin reserve contention

Initially introduced by Representative Jordan Teuscher and sponsored in the Senate by Senator Kirk A. Cullimore, HB230 aimed to position Utah as the first US state to hold Bitcoin in its treasury.

The original proposal allowed the state treasurer to invest up to 10% of certain public funds in Bitcoin (BTC), a move that could have involved millions from accounts like the General Fund and Budget Stabilization Fund. This clause survived earlier votes, raising hopes among crypto advocates, but it failed to pass the third reading.

During the third and final Senate reading, lawmakers stripped the reserve provision from the bill, and Senator Cullimore acknowledged the change on the Senate floor, citing concerns over Utah being an early adopter of such a bold financial policy.

The House later concurred with the amendment in a 52-19-4 vote, reflecting a cautious retreat from the state-managed Bitcoin investment idea.

Approved bill protects Utah crypto holders

Despite removing the reserve clause, HB230 retains significant provisions that bolster Utah’s blockchain ecosystem.

The approved legislation ensures residents can self-custody their digital assets without state interference, a key win for individual freedom in the crypto space. It also safeguards the right to mine Bitcoin, operate blockchain nodes, and participate in staking—activities central to the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies.

These measures aim to empower Utahns and attract blockchain innovators to the state. By clarifying legal terms related to digital assets and prohibiting restrictive regulations, the bill lays a foundation for growth in this emerging sector.

Supporters argue that the bill balances innovation with safety, positioning Utah as a potential hub for crypto-related businesses.

25 out of 31 Bitcoin reserve bills remain active in the US

Utah’s legislative journey mirrors a nationwide push toward Bitcoin integration. While the state stepped back from its reserve ambitions, Arizona and Texas are advancing similar bills, having passed Senate committee votes.

According to Bitcoin Laws data, 25 of 31 introduced Bitcoin reserve bills across the US remain active, with states like Illinois and New Hampshire also in the race.

On the federal level, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on March 7, 2025, creating a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve using seized assets. This move, paired with plans for budget-neutral acquisitions, underscores a growing acceptance of Bitcoin (BTC) at both the state and national levels.

Utah’s amended bill, while less ambitious, aligns with this trend by prioritizing citizen participation over direct state investment.

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Bitcoin Pepe maintains its shine as Bitcoin price bleeds further

Bitcoin season remains in play at an index of 14, as highlighted on CoinMarketCap. Even with heightened market volatility and revolutionary technologies like AI and Telegram gaming, BTC remains the most steady and reliable network. While it has dropped by about 20% since hitting its all-time high in late January, it is still 30% higher than it was a year ago. 

Even so, savvy investors are increasingly looking for opportunities in the altcoins. More specifically, the meme culture has birthed numerous crypto millionaires. This is one of the reasons why revolutionary meme projects like Bitcoin Pepe are raising hefty figures in their first weeks of presale. Its adoption of the meme culture, coupled with the PEP-20 standard and layer-2 solution on the Bitcoin network places it on the list of crypto ICOs to watch in 2025.

Bitcoin ETFs record massive outflows as BTC price remains in the red

Bitcoin price is in the red for the second week in a row as the bulls strive to defend the support zone of $85,000. Since hitting its all-time high in late January 2025, it has dropped by over 20%; momentarily plunging below the crucial level of $80,000 a week ago. 

Amid the selling pressure, Bitcoin ETFs recorded total net outflows of $409.21 million on 7th March as stated on SoSoValue. ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF and Fidelity Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund topped the list with daily net outflows of $160.03 million and $154.89 million respectively.

A look at its daily chart points to the continuation of the downtrend, atleast in the short term. More specifically, it will likely trade within the range of between $85,083 and the 25-day EMA of $91,054 for a while longer. Failure to attract enough buyers to defend the current support zone will give the bears an opportunity to retest the week’s low at $82,223. 

Bitcoin Pepe surpasses $4 million in less than 4 weeks as momentum heightens

Less than 4 weeks since the launch of its presale, Bitcoin Pepe has already raised over $4 million. Indeed, it is more than a typical meme coin; it is a revolutionary project. 

Through the new PEP-20 standard, anyone can launch a meme coin directly on the highly stable Bitcoin network. This has bridged the gap between the Bitcoin maximalists who view meme coins as an unserious venture and meme coin enthusiasts who saw BTC as being beyond their reach. 

Besides, the Layer 2 solution is aimed at building “Solana on Bitcoin”. This means that investors are assured of Bitcoin’s top-notch security while enjoying lower fees and speedier transactions. 

At stage 6 of its presale, the early adopters have already locked in 27.6% in gains. By the time it hits the public shelves in Q2, their capital investment will have earned cumulative returns of 311.4%. Read more on how to buy Bitcoin Pepe here.

Crypto downturn pushes Solana on range-bound trading

Solana price

Solana price has experienced intense swings in recent weeks; plunging by about 53% since hitting its all-time high in late January 2025. During this timeframe, it has been in the red for six out of the past seven weeks.  

A look at its daily chart shows the altcoin trading below the 25 and 50-day EMAs, indicating that it is not out of the woods yet. In the short term, the range between the steady support zone of $125.28 and the resistance level of $146.33 will be worth watching. Further rebounding will have the bulls eyeing the next target at $160.10.

 

 

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Bitcoin Pepe raises $4M as Trump-linked memecoin rakes in $350M for creators

  • Bitcoin Pepe aims for Meme Layer-2 on Bitcoin with PEP-20.
  • TRUMP memecoin earned $350M for its creators, with 80% owned by Trump affiliates.
  • Regulatory push grows as memecoins spark profit and manipulation concerns.

The cryptocurrency world is buzzing with the rise of memecoins tied to high-profile figures and innovative concepts. Among the currently trending memecoins are Official Trump (TRUMP), themed after President Donald Trump, and Bitcoin Pepe (BPEP), which brings memecoins to Bitcoin blockchain.

Bitcoin Pepe has raised over $4 million in its ongoing presale, the “World’s Only Bitcoin Meme ICO,” while a Financial Times report shows that the Official Trump (TRUMP) memecoin, has reportedly generated a staggering $350 million for its creators.

Bitcoin Pepe seeks to build a meme empire on Bitcoin

Amid the memecoin frenzy, Bitcoin Pepe is carving its own niche, raising $4,029,822 in its ongoing presale. Dubbed a “Solana on Bitcoin,” this project aims to create a Meme Layer-2 for Bitcoin, boasting instant transactions and ultra-low fees via its PEP-20 token standard.

Currently in its sixth presale stage out of thirty presale stages, the Bitcoin Pepe (BPEP) token is its going for $0.0268 and it is set to rise to $0.0281 in the next phase.

Post-presale Bitcoin Pepe’s vision is ambitious: enabling memecoin creation on Bitcoin, which it calls “the only chain that will live forever.” Its whitepaper, roadmap, and team details are accessible on its site, alongside a SolidProof audit for credibility.

Bitcoin Pepe’s appeal lies in its simplicity and promise. The project’s branding—replete with giveaways and a “Watch Bitcoin Pepe’s Birth” video—taps into meme culture while leveraging Bitcoin’s enduring reputation, setting it apart from flash-in-the-pan tokens.

As Trump’s memecoin saga unfolds with regulatory clouds looming, Bitcoin Pepe offers a grassroots counterpoint.

Official Trump (TRUMP) has raked in millions

The TRUMP memecoin, launched just days before Donald Trump’s White House return on January 20, 2025, has become a financial juggernaut.

According to the Financial Times report dated March 7, entities behind the token—tied to The Trump Organization’s CIC Digital and Fight Fight Fight LLC—earned at least $314 million from token sales and $36 million in fees on the Solana blockchain. Together, these groups hold 80% of the 1 billion minted TRUMP tokens, though Trump’s personal profit remains undisclosed.

The project kicked off with 200 million tokens released initially, with the remaining 800 million slated for distribution over three years. Early sales saw 100 million tokens offloaded for under $1.05 each, but prices soared to a peak of $75 by January 19.

However, the launch of Melania Trump’s MELANIA memecoin triggered an 82% price drop, prompting Trump-linked accounts to spend $1 million stabilizing the market by buying tokens at $33.20.

Analysts suggest that market manipulation may be at play. The Financial Times tracked $291 million in USDC reinvested into liquidity pools to prop up TRUMP’s value, alongside 14.7 million tokens sent to exchanges like Binance and Coinbase.

Despite the crash, the 831 million tokens still held by Trump affiliates carry a notional value of $10.8 billion, underscoring the memecoin’s outsized impact.

The phenomenon has sparked regulatory scrutiny with Representative Sam Liccardo proposing banning officials from such ventures, while New York Assembly member Clyde Vanel introduced a bill on March 5 to penalize memecoin rug pulls.

Yet, with the SEC deeming memecoins outside securities laws, oversight remains murky, leaving investors vulnerable amid the hype of 700 copycat tokens.

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Bitcoin Pepe’s presale nears $4m as BTC’s price hits $92k

Key takeaways

  • BTC is trading above $92k after adding 6% to its value in the last 24 hours.
  • The Bitcoin Pepe presale is approaching $4 million as stage six nears completion.

Bitcoin surpasses $92k on tariff news

BTC, the number one cryptocurrency by market cap, was bullish on Wednesday, adding over 6% to its value and allowing it to cross the $92k level. At press time, the price of Bitcoin stands at $92,263 and could surge higher in the near term. 

Bitcoin’s rally can be attributed to tariff news as President Trump delays tariffs on auto parts from Mexico and Canada. The news eased investor worries and could push Bitcoin’s price higher in the coming hours and days. 

What is Bitcoin Pepe?

As Bitcoin’s price crosses the $90k level, altcoins are also performing excellently. New projects are not left out as investors continue to push funds into exciting projects in the crypto market.

Bitcoin Pepe is an exciting project that seeks to revolutionise the Bitcoin ecosystem. It is approaching a key level in its presale, with investors pushing millions of dollars into the project.

Bitcoin Pepe is seeking to leverage the liquidity and security of the Bitcoin blockchain. It will use Bitcoin’s position in the market to introduce memecoins to its ecosystem. 

The team revealed in its whitepaper that they are building a layer-2 network on the Bitcoin blockchain. Bitcoin Pepe will be a meme-specialized layer-2 solution built on top of Bitcoin, bringing Solana-style scalability to the Bitcoin network.

As a L2 network, Bitcoin Pepe will build a home for memecoin activities within the Bitcoin ecosystem. This will help it unlock decentralized finance (DeFi) and meme trading on top of BTC.

This project is also the first-ever meme initial coin offering (ICO) on the Bitcoin blockchain, making it the perfect fusion between BTC’s security and the unstoppable force of memecoins. 

The utility will enable Bitcoin Pepe to combine high levels of trust (BTC) with high levels of performance (SOL) to capture high levels of retail mass adoption.

Bitcoin Pepe presale nears $4m

The Bitcoin Pepe presale has been running for three weeks and has raised $3.9 million. It is approaching the $4 million mark and will soon enter its seventh stage, with 23 more stages to go.

The native token, $BPEP, is available to investors via the Bitcoin Pepe website. The token can be purchased using various cryptocurrencies, including ETH, USDT, USDC, BNB, and SOL. In this sixth presale stage, $BPEP is going for $0.0268 and is set to increase to $0.0281 in the next stage. 

Bitcoin Pepe’s utility makes this presale an excellent opportunity for investors as it could enable them to get in early on an exciting project. 

Will Bitcoin Pepe boost the Bitcoin ecosystem?

The Bitcoin Pepe project will unveil products and services that could improve the Bitcoin ecosystem. Introducing DeFi and memecoin trading on Bitcoin could enhance the network’s utility, enabling it to compete with smart contract blockchains like Ethereum and Solana in terms of utility. 

Bitcoin Pepe will enable developers to launch memecoins on the Bitcoin blockchain with ease. Memecoins will empower the Bitcoin blockchain to become home to a crazy high-octane meme experience. 

The Bitcoin Pepe project intends to unlock Bitcoin’s $2 trillion dormant market cap, making it available for memecoin trading. The layer-2 network will provide the necessary infrastructure for all memes to migrate to BTC, ensuring security and liquidity for investors and users. Bitcoin Pepe’s native $BPEP token will power several activities within the ecosystem. 

Should you buy the $BPEP token in its presale stage?

The Bitcoin Pepe presale is in its sixth stage, with the $BPEP token going for $0.0268 and increasing in the next stage. As the team develops its L2 network and other products, the presale could be an excellent opportunity to get in on the project, allowing investors to gain early exposure to the project.

Bitcoin Pepe will roll out memecoin trading to the Bitcoin ecosystem. This could increase the utility of the $BPEP token and could make it a top performer in the broader crypto market. The presale allows investors to purchase Bitcoin Pepe’s native token at a discount before it launches on centralised and decentralised exchanges.

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