LAPTOP Memecoin Collapse, Pump.fun Launches Tokenized Stock Trading, Liquid Recovers from 4,000 BTC Exploit, $245 M Crypto Heist Guilty Pleas, Iran Uses Bitcoin and USDT

This week’s crypto news showed both expanding use cases and growing security concerns.

Pump.fun pairs memecoins with tokenized assets on Solana

Pump.fun announced a new trading model that lets users launch tokens directly linked to tokenized stocks, crypto majors and metals on the Solana blockchain. The platform positions the offering as a way for traders to engage with traditional assets via memecoins, though analysts note it is not yet a vehicle for market manipulation.

Hunter Biden’s LAPTOP meme coin crashes 98% in 90 minutes

The LAPTOP token, promoted by a member of the Biden family, fell from a high of $199 to an all‑time low of $1.36 within an hour and a half after launch, representing a 98% loss in value.

Liquid network resumes after 4,000 BTC exploit

Liquid announced a controlled resumption of block production following a white‑hat hack that seized nearly 4,000 BTC. The attackers left a “tip” of 600 BTC, valued at roughly $45 million, before returning the remainder.

Cybercrime ring admits stealing $245 million in crypto

A Singapore‑based ringleader pleaded guilty to directing a network that stole and laundered more than $245 million in cryptocurrency. The scheme involved impersonating personnel from Google and Gemini to obtain Google Drive credentials, which were then used to access wallets and exchange accounts.

Iran adopts Bitcoin and USDT for trade settlement

Reports indicate that Iran is using Bitcoin and Tether’s USDT as a practical rail for international trade settlements, allowing the country to bypass traditional financial sanctions.