This week in crypto, regulatory shifts, major partnerships, and strategic integrations made headlines. The U.S. Federal Reserve eased rules for banks engaging with digital assets, while Coinbase and PayPal teamed up to expand stablecoin adoption worldwide. Meanwhile, Metaplanet crossed a major Bitcoin milestone, DWF Labs partnered with Mask Network to advance decentralized social platforms, and ZetaChain integrated Arbitrum to streamline cross-chain app experiences. Here is a recap of the biggest developments you need to know.
Federal Reserve Eases Crypto Rules for U.S. Banks
Earlier this week, the U.S. Federal Reserve announced a major shift in its crypto policy. It is easing regulations for banks dealing with digital assets and stablecoins. This move aims to lower regulatory barriers and encourage broader participation in the growing crypto sector. Previously, state-chartered banks had to seek Fed approval before offering crypto services. Now, that requirement is lifted, banks will manage crypto offerings under standard oversight procedures, similar to traditional financial products.
The relaxed rules are expected to drive innovation, expand liquidity, and open new opportunities for banks in the stablecoin market. Traditional financial institutions can now engage more freely with digital assets while maintaining risk management practices under Fed supervision.
Coinbase and PayPal Partner to Expand Stablecoin Payments Globally
Coinbase and PayPal have partnered to boost the adoption of PayPal USD (PYUSD), a U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin, making it more accessible for consumers, businesses, and institutions worldwide. Coinbase users can now buy, sell, and convert PYUSD without platform fees, redeeming it at a 1:1 rate with U.S. dollars.
Through this collaboration, Coinbase will offer PYUSD access via its trading and custody platforms, while helping integrate stablecoin solutions into PayPal’s merchant network. The partnership focuses on enhancing programmable payments, faster settlements, and broader global use of stablecoins. PYUSD, issued by Paxos Trust and backed by U.S. dollar reserves, will also be promoted through PayPal and Venmo for regulated digital transactions.
Metaplanet Surpasses 5,000 Bitcoin, Hits Midway Point in 2025 Target
Tokyo-based investment firm Metaplanet has surpassed 5,000 Bitcoin after acquiring another 145 BTC worth $13.6 million. The company, aiming to amass 10,000 BTC by the end of 2025 under its “21 Million Plan,” has already reached over 50% of its goal. Its Bitcoin holdings are now valued at around $428 million.
April marked a record month for Metaplanet, with over 1,650 BTC purchased for nearly $153 million, pushing it among the top 10 corporate Bitcoin holders. CEO Simon Gerovich praised the milestone, highlighting Japan’s growing role in global Bitcoin adoption. Since mid-2024, Metaplanet has raised approximately $745 million, one of the largest digital asset capital raises in Asia. The firm also introduced a BTC Yield metric to track performance, posting a 95.6% yield in Q1 2025 and 13% quarter-to-date for Q2.
DWF Labs Partners with Mask Network to Boost Decentralized Social Infrastructure
DWF Labs, a major Web3 market maker and investor, has partnered with Mask Network, a decentralized social platform, to enhance Web3 social experiences and infrastructure. The collaboration aims to empower users through seamless access to NFTs, DeFi, and encrypted messaging, bridging traditional and decentralized platforms.
Mask Network, through its venture arm Bonfire Union, has backed over 100 Web3 projects in recent years. Mask Network’s Founder Suji Yan emphasized that the alliance will further the adoption of permissionless technologies, joining other Mask supporters like Protocol Labs and Arweave. Together, the two firms aim to promote user sovereignty, digital autonomy, and free value flow across decentralized ecosystems.
ZetaChain Integrates Arbitrum to Power Seamless Universal Apps
ZetaChain has integrated Arbitrum into its Universal Apps platform, ZetaHub. With this, it is aiming to simplify cross-chain app usage. Announced via its official X account, the move enables Arbitrum wallets to access Universal Apps without needing wrappers, bridges, or token swaps.
With over 515,000 monthly users, ZetaHub is expanding its role as a leading multi-chain platform. The integration taps into Arbitrum’s fast, low-cost Ethereum L2 solutions, home to popular dApps like Radiant Capital and GMX. Now, developers can compose with Arbitrum’s ecosystem, gain native support for $ARB and related tokens, and interact with Arbitrum contracts from any chain using just one smart contract.
As the crypto industry continues to evolve, this week’s developments highlight growing momentum across regulation, stablecoin adoption, Bitcoin accumulation, decentralized social networks, and cross-chain innovation. With major institutions and platforms pushing forward, the Web3 landscape is shaping up for even broader participation and new opportunities in the months ahead. Stay tuned as BlockchainReporter brings you the latest updates driving the future of digital finance.
