Morning News | VanEck and Grayscale Submit BNB ETF Amendments on the Same Day; BlackRock in Talks to Invest Billions in SpaceX's IPO; Michael Saylor Posts Bitcoin Tracker Info Again

链捕手Published on 2026-05-18Last updated on 2026-05-18

Abstract

Crypto & Tech Roundup: VanEck and Grayscale both submitted revised applications for a BNB ETF. BlackRock is reportedly in talks to invest tens of billions of dollars in SpaceX's upcoming IPO. Michael Saylor hinted at another Bitcoin purchase announcement by MicroStrategy, expected next week. The Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund Mubadala increased its holdings of BlackRock's IBIT spot Bitcoin ETF to nearly $660 million. In other news, Grafana disclosed a GitHub security breach where code was stolen and a ransom demanded, while Circle's CEO expressed interest in funding teams building AI agents capable of signing legal contracts using its technology stack. Separately, Chinese customs in Zhejiang province cracked down on crypto mining rig smuggling, seizing over 400 machines. Popular memecoins on ETH, Solana, and Base networks were also listed. The roundup concludes with highlights from a Vitalik Buterin podcast on blockchain as a "sanctuary" from AI and an interview on US banks re-engaging with crypto.

Compiled by: ChainCatcher


Key News:

  • VanEck and Grayscale Submit BNB ETF Amendments on the Same Day
  • Michael Saylor Posts Bitcoin Tracker Info Again, May Disclose Accumulation Data Next Week
  • BlackRock in Talks to Invest Billions in SpaceX's IPO
  • Abu Dhabi Sovereign Wealth Fund Mubadala Increases IBIT Holdings to Nearly $660 Million
  • Grafana Discloses GitHub Environment Security Incident, Hackers Steal Code Repositories and Extort Ransom
  • Circle CEO Willing to Invest in Teams Exploring 'AI Agents Signing Legal Contracts' on Arc

What Happened in the Last 24 Hours?

Circle CEO Willing to Invest in Teams Exploring 'AI Agents Signing Legal Contracts' on Arc

ChainCatcher news, Circle co-founder and CEO Jeremy Allaire reposted an article on X about "How to Build AI Agents That Can Sign Legal Contracts."

Allaire stated he is willing to invest in teams building this business on Arc using the Circle Agent Stack.

Grafana Discloses GitHub Environment Security Incident, Hackers Steal Code Repositories and Extort Ransom

ChainCatcher news, open-source data visualization tool Grafana posted on X, stating that an unauthorized actor recently gained access to a token that provided access to the Grafana Labs GitHub environment and used it to download code repositories.

The investigation confirmed that no customer data or personal information was leaked, and no impact on customer systems or business operations was found. After the incident, forensic analysis was immediately initiated, and the source of the credential leak is believed to have been identified. Additional security measures have been deployed to strengthen environment protection.

Furthermore, Grafana disclosed that the attacker attempted to extort a ransom to prevent the code repositories from being published, but the company ultimately decided not to pay. More post-mortem information will be released after the investigation concludes.

BlackRock in Talks to Invest Billions in SpaceX's IPO

ChainCatcher news, according to a report by The Information, people familiar with the matter revealed that BlackRock has discussed investing $5 to $10 billion in SpaceX's IPO next month. This massive investment targets an IPO project that could raise up to $75 billion, representing a major vote of confidence from the world's largest asset manager in Elon Musk's company.

This investment also reflects the market's willingness to participate in what could be the largest IPO in history, despite SpaceX pursuing a sky-high valuation and plans that would give investors almost no power to challenge management decisions.

Abu Dhabi Sovereign Wealth Fund Mubadala Increases IBIT Holdings to Nearly $660 Million

Michael Saylor Posts Bitcoin Tracker Info Again, May Disclose Accumulation Data Next Week

ChainCatcher news, Michael Saylor, founder and executive chairman of bitcoin treasury company Strategy, posted Bitcoin Tracker related information again, writing: "₿ig Dot Energy".

Based on previous patterns, Strategy always discloses Bitcoin accumulation data the day after related messages are posted.

Zhejiang, China Customs Cracks Cryptocurrency Mining Machine Smuggling Case, Seizes Over 400 Machines

ChainCatcher news, according to Zhejiang Daily, Ningbo Customs Anti-Smuggling Bureau in China's Zhejiang Province recently cracked multiple cases of smuggling virtual currency mining machines, dismantling several criminal gangs and seizing over 400 machines including Antminer L9 and IceRiver KS3 models.

The report stated that the involved gangs disassembled the mining machines and falsely declared them as items like "industrial blockers" to smuggle them into the country via international express channels through ports like Ningbo and Guangzhou. The machines were then reassembled and sold domestically or shipped to mining farms in Xinjiang, Hunan, and other regions for hosting and mining.

Investigators also said the gangs used USDT for cross-border payment settlements to evade capital controls.

Meme Tokens Trending Chart

According to data from meme token tracking and analysis platform GMGN as of 09:00 on May 18,

The top 5 trending ETH tokens in the past 24h are: HEX, SHIB, LINK, PEPE, mUSD

The top 5 trending Solana tokens in the past 24h are: TROLL, WCOR, BULLISH, HANTA, neet

The top 5 trending Base tokens in the past 24h are: B3, BASED, SKYA, IMGA, TOSHI

Noteworthy Articles in the Past 24 Hours?

Vitalik: Our Goal Isn't to Fight AI, But to Create Sanctuaries

Just finished listening to this episode of Vitalik on a16z, and the information density is mind-blowing.

He founded Ethereum at 19, and now in his early 30s, he has evolved from living on "autopilot" to being the "active pilot."

The core topic of this episode is our most pressing anxiety today: AI is getting stronger, what should humanity do?

Vitalik's answer is not "fight AI," but to create sanctuary technologies. These technologies protect us without stripping away our privacy and agency.

Today, we'll break down the hardest counter-intuitive views, practical advice, and Ethereum's new positioning from this episode.

Conversation with Lead Bank Founder Jackie: U.S. Banks Embracing Crypto Again

• Why Lead Bank chose to provide banking services to crypto companies while other banks were exiting.
• How the "GENIUS Act" and recent regulatory changes are reshaping banking strategies.
• What new opportunities stablecoins will bring to traditional banks in a post-GENIUS Act world.
• How to build trust between traditional banking regulators and crypto innovators.

Whether you want to understand the role of the crypto industry in the future banking system, or are a Crypto Native exploring paths within the banking system, this conversation will offer valuable insights—from someone who has successfully bridged traditional finance and the crypto world.

Related Questions

QAccording to the article, what significant actions did major asset managers take regarding ETFs on the same day, and what specific cryptocurrency was involved?

AAccording to the article, on the same day, asset management firms VanEck and Grayscale both submitted revised applications for a BNB Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF).

QWhat investment is BlackRock reportedly discussing regarding SpaceX, and what is the potential scale of this investment according to the article?

AThe article states that BlackRock is reportedly discussing investing $5 billion to $10 billion into SpaceX's upcoming IPO (Initial Public Offering).

QWhat is the implied next step for Michael Saylor's company after he posts his 'Bitcoin Tracker' messages, and what did his recent message say?

AThe article states that following Michael Saylor's 'Bitcoin Tracker' posts, his company Strategy (presumably a misspelling of MicroStrategy) typically discloses Bitcoin purchase data the next day. His recent message was: "₿ig Dot Energy."

QDescribe the security incident disclosed by Grafana. What was accessed, and how did the company respond to the ransom demand?

AGrafana disclosed a security incident where an unauthorized attacker accessed a token that provided access to its GitHub environment and used it to download code repositories. The company stated that no customer data or personal information was compromised. When the attacker attempted to extort a ransom to prevent the code from being leaked, Grafana refused to pay.

QWhat core concept did Vitalik Buterin discuss regarding humanity's relationship with advancing AI, as summarized in the article's 'Past 24 hours' section?

AIn the podcast discussed in the article, Vitalik Buterin argued that humanity's goal should not be to 'fight against AI,' but rather to create 'sanctuary technologies.' These are technologies designed to protect human privacy and agency (sovereignty) without isolating us.

Related Reads

Agents Take Over Traffic Distribution Power: What Are Tencent, ByteDance, and Alibaba Competing For?

In the race to dominate the AI era's entry point, China's tech giants—Tencent, ByteDance, and Alibaba—are aggressively deploying AI Agents to control the future of traffic distribution. Alibaba is pursuing a dual-track "closed loop + openness" strategy. Its Qianwen app is evolving into a super-Agent integrated across its ecosystem (Taobao, Alipay, etc.) to handle complex tasks like travel planning. Concurrently, it is opening its platform to external brands (Luckin Coffee, KFC) and has launched a B2B Agent platform, "Wukong," targeting enterprise automation. Its other flagship, Quark, aims to be an "AI super search box" for information and tasks. ByteDance is executing an omnipresent "sprawl strategy." Its Doubao app boasts over 300 million monthly active users and is evolving into a default AI entry point for daily life, with plans for paid versions and e-commerce integration. Its core weapon is the Kouzi platform, a visual "AI assembly factory" for developers to build custom Agents. ByteDance is also pushing hardware integration, collaborating on AI phones and developing smart glasses to embed Doubao everywhere. Tencent is playing its long-held "ultimate card" by quietly embedding an AI Agent directly into WeChat. This Agent, accessible via a swipe, can understand user commands and automatically execute tasks by calling upon WeChat's millions of mini-programs (e.g., finding and ordering coffee). This leverages WeChat's unparalleled 1.4-billion-user ecosystem to position the app as an AI-powered "service operating system," a move that could dramatically reshape the competitive landscape. The core battleground is shifting from competing for "user screen time" to competing to be the "default execution layer" for user intent. The business model is evolving from an "attention economy" to an "intent economy," where the Agent that can most efficiently fulfill a user's need gains control over service access and token flow. This represents a fundamental change in how users connect with digital services, making the fight for the Agent入口 (entry point) a pivotal moment for redefining industry leadership in the AI age.

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Agents Take Over Traffic Distribution Power: What Are Tencent, ByteDance, and Alibaba Competing For?

marsbit41m ago

From Banning Doubao to Embracing Honor: Why Did WeChat Suddenly 'Change Its Face'?

The article explores the sudden shift in WeChat's strategy towards AI assistants from mobile phone manufacturers, transitioning from strict opposition to active collaboration. For over a year, WeChat fiercely resisted attempts by phone AI assistants (like ByteDance's Doubao in late 2025) to control its features via GUI automation ("simulated clicking"), citing security and data control concerns. This stance created a significant barrier for system-level AI integration. Now, Tencent has initiated A2A (Agent-to-Agent) partnerships with major phone brands like Honor, Xiaomi, OPPO, and vivo. This model allows a phone's system AI (e.g., Honor's YOYO) to parse a user's voice command and send a structured request directly to WeChat's own internal AI agent via secure APIs. WeChat then executes the action (e.g., sending a message) and returns the result. The article attributes Tencent's "change of face" to strategic pressure. While leading in social app usage, Tencent trails rivals like ByteDance and Alibaba in standalone AI app popularity. WeChat, with its vast mini-program ecosystem, is Tencent's key asset for an AI comeback. The upcoming WeChat AI agent aims to handle tasks like booking and payments within the app. However, phone system assistants remain the primary AI entry point for most users. The A2A collaboration allows Tencent to extend WeChat's AI reach to this crucial system layer while maintaining control over its core functions and data. For phone manufacturers, embracing A2A is a pragmatic move. The GUI route proved unviable due to WeChat's blocks. A2A offers a compliant path to integrate a vital service, enhancing their AI assistants' usefulness. It allows them to focus on developing their own AI ecosystems for other services while cooperating on WeChat access. The collaboration is framed as a mutual, strategic necessity: Tencent gains a distribution channel, and manufacturers gain a key functionality. The partnership relies on a "dual authorization" mechanism for security, requiring both user and app consent for each action. While questions about long-term data privacy practices remain, experts note A2A is more secure and compliant than GUI automation. Ultimately, this cooperation is seen as a tentative, calculated truce. Tencent's long-term goal is to make WeChat an AI-powered "service OS." Phone manufacturers aim to make their system AI the central user interface. Their paths may converge or clash in the future, but for now, the A2A deal represents the opening chapter in the battle for the AI-era user入口, driven by necessity and strategic calculus on both sides.

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From Banning Doubao to Embracing Honor: Why Did WeChat Suddenly 'Change Its Face'?

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What is BNB WHALES

Understanding BNB Whales: A Deep Dive into the Cryptocurrency Landscape Introduction to BNB Whales In the vibrant world of cryptocurrencies, new projects regularly emerge, often promising innovative solutions and unique experiences. One such project is BNB Whales, launched in 2023 and built on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP20). BNB Whales sets out to establish a distinctive presence within the cryptocurrency ecosystem, focusing on creating an engaging platform that combines the benefits of blockchain technology with social and gaming interactions. This article aims to delve deeper into BNB Whales, exploring its core components, mechanics, and developmental trajectory. What are BNB Whales? BNB Whales is a cryptocurrency initiative that seeks to provide a diverse range of features and opportunities for its users in the burgeoning Web3 environment. Utilizing the BEP20 standard, the project operates with a total token supply of 100 trillion (100,000,000,000,000,000). Despite this significant figure, it is noteworthy that no tokens are currently in circulation, indicating that the project may still be in its early developmental stages. The primary goal of BNB Whales is to create a platform where users can participate in various interactive activities while benefiting from the security and transparency afforded by blockchain technology. By fostering a unique and engaging environment, BNB Whales aims to build a strong community of users who are invested in the project and its development. Who is the Creator of BNB Whales? The identity of the creator of BNB Whales remains undisclosed at this time, presenting a challenge for those looking to understand the project's founding principles and visionary insights. This absence of publicly available information regarding the project's leadership may raise questions among potential investors and users about its governance and accountability structure. Who are the Investors of BNB Whales? As BNB Whales continues to evolve, information concerning specific investors or support from investment foundations is currently unavailable. The project’s official documentation, including its whitepaper, does not disclose either individual or institutional financial backers. The lack of transparency in this regard can sometimes raise questions about the legitimacy and sustainability of new projects within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. How Does BNB Whales Work? BNB Whales operates on the BNB Smart Chain utilizing the BEP20 standard, which is known for its efficiency and low transaction fees, attracting a variety of developers and projects. The unique aspect of BNB Whales lies in its focus on creating a community-driven platform. While precise operational details are scarce, the project emphasizes interaction and engagement, potentially incorporating gamified elements into its offerings. The emphasis on community is pivotal, as it aligns with prevailing trends in the cryptocurrency space, where user input and participation often dictate a project's success. Further innovation may be anticipated, but at present, the specific mechanisms and features that differentiate BNB Whales from other crypto initiatives remain to be fully elucidated. Without detailed information regarding its functionality, it is challenging to evaluate the project's differentiators comprehensively. Timeline of BNB Whales The development of BNB Whales has unfolded across key milestones, marking its journey in the cryptocurrency landscape. Below is a timeline of significant events pertaining to the project: 2023: Launch of BNB Whales, marking the project's entry into the market. 2023: Publication of the project's whitepaper, which lays out the overarching goals and operational framework. Ongoing: BNB Whales continues to develop its features, aiming to build a robust user base and expand its offerings. Key Points About BNB Whales Platform: BNB Smart Chain (BEP20) Total Supply: 100 trillion tokens (100,000,000,000,000,000) Circulating Supply: 0 tokens (indicating a nascent stage) Project Goal: To foster an engaging cryptocurrency platform for interaction and community building. Creator: Unknown Investors: Not disclosed Operational Status: Active with ongoing development and expansion Conclusion As BNB Whales navigates the competitive cryptocurrency landscape, it offers a glimpse into the potential of community-driven projects built on the foundations of blockchain technology. By focusing on engagement and interaction, the initiative stands at the forefront of innovation in the Web3 space. However, the project's success ultimately hinges on the clarity of its operational mechanics, the disclosure of its governance, and the establishment of a solid user community. For potential users and investors alike, BNB Whales represents a case study in the evolving nature of cryptocurrency projects—one that illustrates both the exciting possibilities and the complexities associated with new initiatives. As the landscape continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor BNB Whales' progress and its impact on the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem.

3.5k Total ViewsPublished 2024.04.01Updated 2024.12.03

What is BNB WHALES

What is PONKE BNB

Ponke BNB: A New Approach in the Cryptocurrency Space Introduction Ponke BNB, a newcomer in the cryptocurrency arena, was launched in 2024 and operates on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP20) platform. This innovative project seeks to build a distinctive and engaged community, focusing on sustainable reward generation. As the cryptocurrency landscape evolves, Ponke BNB aims to address critical issues surrounding reward sustainability, making it a project worth observing for enthusiasts and investors alike. What is Ponke BNB? At its core, Ponke BNB is a cryptocurrency designed specifically for the BNB Smart Chain ecosystem. Boasting an immense total supply of 370,000,000,000,000,000 tokens, it is worth noting that currently, there are no tokens in circulation. The guiding mission of Ponke BNB is to foster a sustainable reward system that mitigates the challenges associated with rewards depletion, a common pitfall in many cryptocurrencies today. The mechanics of Ponke BNB's functionality centre around encouraging user participation, while simultaneously providing rewards that can stand the test of time. The unique structure of its reward system is aimed at ensuring longevity and stability, addressing essential market concerns. Who is the Creator of Ponke BNB? Despite extensive exploration, the identity of Ponke BNB's creator remains unknown. There is a notable absence of publicly available information regarding the project’s founder or its development team. This anonymity, while not uncommon in the cryptocurrency space, raises some questions about transparency and accountability in project management. Who are the Investors of Ponke BNB? Similar to the lack of clarity surrounding its creator, there is no public information available regarding any investment foundations or organizations that support Ponke BNB. This absence of investor data can often breed uncertainty among prospective investors, who typically prefer a clear understanding of the backing behind cryptocurrencies they consider engaging with. How Does Ponke BNB Work? Ponke BNB stands out through its inventive two-layered sustainable reward generating system. This system is built to tackle the issue of rewards depletion effectively. By engaging users and creating a vibrant community, Ponke BNB seeks to provide a stable and enjoyable environment, which emphasizes user interaction and rewards. The operation framework of Ponke BNB encourages participation through various activities and challenges that are designed to incentivise users while ensuring that the reward system remains sustainable. It aims to stimulate the community and promote an engaging atmosphere where members can feel valued and appreciated. Timeline of Ponke BNB The evolution of Ponke BNB can be summarized through a few key milestones: 2024: The inception of Ponke BNB on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP20) platform marked a significant entry into the cryptocurrency market. 2024: The release of the project’s whitepaper and official website provided comprehensive insights into Ponke BNB’s goals and objectives, forming the foundation for its community-driven approach. Key Features of Ponke BNB Ponke BNB is built on several key features that set it apart from other cryptocurrency projects: Sustainable Reward System The two-layered reward system is designed to foster engagement, prevent depletion of rewards, and ensure the longevity of returns for participants in the Ponke BNB ecosystem. Community Engagement The project places a strong emphasis on active community engagement, driving participation through activities designed to create a social and collaborative environment. This community-centric approach empowers users to have a hand in shaping the project's future directions. BNB Smart Chain Integration Operating on the BEP20 platform, Ponke BNB is reinforced by the security and efficiency offered by the BNB Smart Chain. Users benefit from fast and cost-effective transactions, positioning Ponke BNB well within the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem. Conclusion In summary, Ponke BNB is an emergent cryptocurrency project aiming to carve a niche for itself in the growing digital currency landscape. With its focus on a sustainable reward system and community engagement, it presents a fresh outlook in an otherwise volatile sector. While uncertainties linger concerning the project's creators and investors, Ponke BNB continues to strive for transparency and innovation. As the cryptocurrency market continues to develop, Ponke BNB’s principles of sustainability and community-driven dynamics place it in a promising light for future observers and participants alike.

3.4k Total ViewsPublished 2024.04.01Updated 2024.12.03

What is PONKE BNB

What is BNB CARD

Understanding BNB Card: Revolutionizing Digital Identity in Web3 In the rapidly evolving landscape of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency, the BNB Card or $BNBCARD stands out as a noteworthy project. This community-driven utility meme token leverages the BNB Smart Chain (BSC), aiming to integrate meme culture with innovative digital identity solutions. As more users dive into the realms of decentralization, it is crucial to dissect what BNB Card offers, its operational nuances, and its potential market impact. What is BNB Card ($BNBCARD)? At its core, BNB Card represents a meme token with substantial utility. It is designed to empower users by enabling the creation of personalized digital identity cards that are both expressive and functional. The project encapsulates several key features: Customizable ID Cards: Users have the ability to design Binance-themed digital ID cards, providing them with a platform for self-expression and enhanced community interaction. Decentralized Framework: Developed on the BSC, BNB Card emphasizes key attributes such as security, transparency, and user sovereignty. The decentralized nature of the framework allows for transactions that are both efficient and secure. Community-Centric Model: The emphasis on grassroots participation rather than laboratory-driven financial models creates an engaging environment for its users. By leveraging the inherent virality of meme culture, BNB Card fosters a robust community movement. The primary goal of BNB Card is to democratize digital identity tools in Web3, offering accessible solutions that benefit the users without the encumbrances typically associated with traditional identity management systems. Creator and Investors When exploring the identity behind BNB Card, it is important to note that no singular creator is explicitly credited. Instead, the project appears to be community-driven, suggesting a collective effort inspired by the notion of Binance's “Early Builder Card.” This organic development approach is common among projects within the meme token spectrum, where development is often influenced by the community's passion rather than a central authority. In terms of investment, the absence of publicly disclosed institutional backers further highlights the project's grassroots foundation. It thrives on organic community support, reflecting a usual characteristic of meme-driven projects that often engage their audience through social channels rather than formal investment routes. How It Works BNB Card employs several mechanisms that delineate its functioning and innovative spirit: Token Utility: The BNBCARD token allows users access to a suite of ID creation tools while also providing a platform for community governance. The token serves as the linchpin that enables these functionalities. Blockchain Integration: By utilizing the BSC, BNB Card ensures compatibility with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-based applications. This integration provides users with the benefits of low transaction fees while enhancing accessibility. DIY Ecosystem: Central to BNB Card’s appeal is its do-it-yourself (DIY) approach to digital identity card generation. This participatory element encourages users to engage in creative expression, fostering an inclusive culture that thrives on contribution and collaboration. Timeline Chronology is vital to understanding BNB Card's trajectory. Important milestones in the project’s history include: March 18, 2025: BNB Card was listed on LBank, marking a significant step in its exchange journey and opening doors for liquidity and user accessibility. March 19, 2025: A pivotal moment occurred as the token experienced an astronomical surge of 26,000% within 24 hours, garnering attention for its potential and the community’s enthusiasm. Ongoing Developments: The project is continuously expanding its partnerships with decentralized exchanges (DEXs) like PancakeSwap, further enhancing liquidity and user engagement. Innovation and Differentiation Understanding what sets BNB Card apart involves deeper exploration into its innovative framework: Meme-Utility Hybrid: BNB Card successfully merges the playful allure of meme culture with practical applications in digital identity management. This niche approach effectively caters to a broad demographic, appealing to both tech-savvy users and those new to crypto. Decentralized Governance: Operating devoid of centralized control allows the project to harness community input directly. The collective decision-making process buoyed by community involvement empowers users, ensuring their voices contribute to the development and direction of the project. Scalability: BNB Card stands to benefit immensely from the 2025 roadmap upgrades to the BNB Chain, which include enhancements such as increased transaction speeds and the integration of artificial intelligence tools. These improvements position the project advantageously within a highly competitive environment. Conclusion BNB Card is emblematic of a new wave of digital identity solutions within the Web3 ecosystem. By blending fun, community engagement, and practical utility, it invites users to participate actively in shaping their digital personas. As the project navigates the dynamic cryptocurrency landscape, its success will likely hinge on maintaining strong community support while adapting to technological advancements and user needs. The integration of decentralization with meme culture serves not only as a means for user-driven engagement but also as a foundation for the evolving narrative surrounding digital identity in the age of blockchain. In summation, BNB Card not only exemplifies the convergence of creativity and utility within the crypto space but also underscores the importance of community in steering the future of decentralized technologies.

3.8k Total ViewsPublished 2025.03.26Updated 2025.03.26

What is BNB CARD

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Welcome to the HTX Community. Here, you can stay informed about the latest platform developments and gain access to professional market insights. Users' opinions on the price of BNB (BNB) are presented below.

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