Aave has integrated Chainlink’s Smart Value Recapture (SVR) on Ethereum Mainnet to recapture liquidation-related MEV, historically lost to block builders, and redirect it to DeFi apps.

The S&P 500 fell 1.53% last week amid tariff concerns, with investors awaiting jobs data and earnings. Gold dips to $3,025 as Ukraine peace talks reduce safe-haven demand, but Fed rate cut expectations may limit losses. Market focus shifts to U.S. retail sales data for further direction. CoinDesk Indices, which tracks the broader crypto market, rose 1.06% in the past 24 hours, Bitcoin dropped 0.75%, while Ether rose 0.07%. Trade these markets and more with up to 500x leverage on Bybit MT5 using this 

Today's top performer is ZRO, up 9.3%, as Wyoming partners with LayerZero for multichain stablecoin development.

LayerZero (ZRO), launched in 2021, is a cross-chain interoperability protocol enabling secure blockchain communication. It has raised $260M+ and reached a $3B valuation. Supporting 48 blockchains, its V2 upgrade enhances security and programmability. Its first DApp, Stargate Finance, enables seamless cross-chain transfers. Wyoming Stable Token Commission has 

 with LayerZero to develop the WYST stable token, announced at the DC Blockchain Summit. Test WYST has been deployed on multiple blockchain testnets using LayerZero’s Omnichain Fungible Token standard, meeting legislative requirements for a multichain stable token. The Commission aims to launch a fiat-backed, fully reserved stablecoin soon.

Check out the latest prices, charts, and data of 

 Chainlink’s Smart Value Recapture (SVR) on Ethereum Mainnet to recapture liquidation-related MEV, historically lost to block builders, and redirect it to DeFi apps. Developed with BGD Labs and Flashbots, SVR enables Aave to reclaim Oracle Extractable Value (OEV) from liquidations, boosting protocol revenue. Initially applied to select markets (tBTC, LBTC, AAVE, LINK), the recaptured revenue will be split between Aave (65%) and Chainlink (35%). SVR is also the first Chainlink service integrated with Payment Abstraction, allowing seamless LINK conversions for fees. Future upgrades will enhance decentralization, gas efficiency, and cross-chain functionality.

The BTC spot ETF data for the week of March 24–28, 2025, shows a total of $196.4 million in Non-GBTC, with no changes in GBTC. The week's total was negative due to a significant drop on March 28, where Non-GBTC was down by $93.2 million. The current total from inception stands at $36,334 million for Non-GBTC and -$22,526 million for GBTC.

Beginner

3.png

Aave integrates Chainlink SVR to recapture MEV and boost DeFi revenue

Mar 31, 2025: Our weekly Institutional Insights explores the latest market developments — market performance, industry news, exchange-traded fund (ETF) flows, trending topics, upcoming events and token unlocks — to help you supercharge your crypto trading.

 explores the latest market developments — market performance, industry news, exchange-traded fund (ETF) flows, trending topics, upcoming events and token unlocks — to help you supercharge your crypto trading.

Weekly highlight — Payroll is expected to further soften

US employers likely slowed hiring in March amid rising consumer caution and a dimmer economic outlook due to concerns over higher tariffs. Payrolls increased by 138,000, falling short of the 151,000 rise from the previous month, marking the slowest average job growth since October. The unemployment rate is expected to remain at 4.1%.

The labor market report comes as economic data shows a significant slowdown in Q1, with personal spending barely rising, soft disposable income growth and declining consumer sentiment over inflation fears.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and other Board of Governors members will address the economic outlook shortly after the jobs data release next Friday. The anxiety surrounding President Trump's aggressive trade policies is mounting, especially with the expected significant tariff increase on imports.

Trump stated he is unconcerned about potential auto price hikes due to these tariffs. 

 predicts that effective tariffs could reach around 15% next year, the highest in nearly a century, which may keep the Fed from lowering rates amid inflation risks.

With consumer confidence waning, any significant drop in job growth could heighten economic concerns. Upcoming manufacturing and services surveys from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) and S&P Global are anticipated to provide further insights.

Weekly crypto highlight — Ether doubts mount as volatility rattles market

Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum’s founder, was once celebrated as a visionary in the cryptocurrency realm. Known for his quirky style and idealistic views, he’s aimed to revolutionize finance and digital life via Ethereum, a significant competitor to Bitcoin. However, as Ethereum enters its second decade, it’s struggling to meet early expectations amid a rapidly evolving industry influenced by political shifts, notably under Donald Trump.

Developers are leaving, early supporters are frustrated — and Ethereum's token (ETH, or Ether) has underperformed compared to Bitcoin and other competitors. Complaints about Buterin's leadership have intensified, leading him to express the challenges of maintaining a positive environment for talent within the Ethereum Foundation.

Despite Ethereum remaining the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency, its value plummeted approximately 44% in 2025, marking its worst quarterly performance since 2022. While BTC has gained 30% over the past year, ETH has declined 45%, losing ground to rivals like Solana, which has experienced 83% growth in developer activity.

Analysts have downgraded Ethereum's year-end forecast by 60%, citing an identity crisis and dwindling dominance. At a recent conference, Buterin acknowledged the unmet promises of Ethereum but stressed the need for sustainable long-term value.

Buterin, who authored the Ethereum white paper in 2014 after dropping out of college, envisioned a decentralized platform for digital contracts and applications. Despite Ethereum's speculative highs, he has remained detached from material wealth.

In contrast to the crypto landscape embracing Trump's rhetoric, Buterin has maintained a critical stance, labeling “politician coins” as risky and detrimental to democracy. He hasn’t commented further on these issues, reflecting his commitment to Ethereum's foundational ideals amid shifting industry dynamics.

Bybit Institutional_Weekly Poster (1) (1).png

Weekly Institutional Insights: US payroll expected to weaken; Ether doubts mount

Following the success of recent Bitcoin and Ethereum Spot ETFs, asset managers are actively pursuing the creation of spot ETFs for altcoins. Learn more here.

US president Donald Trump's return to office has ignited renewed institutional interest in 

 (ETF) applications centered on these innovative digital assets. This surge reflects a growing recognition of altcoins as viable investment opportunities. 

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the dynamic 

 landscape, spotlight key altcoins that are drawing ETF proposals and discuss the potential market impact and regulatory challenges. 

An altcoin spot ETF application is a formal request submitted to regulators to create an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that directly holds altcoins (cryptocurrencies other than 

) as underlying assets, allowing investors regulated exposure to the altcoins’ real-time market prices without owning the altcoins themselves.

How does an altcoin spot ETF application work?

The process of applying for such an ETF in the United States involves several detailed steps, primarily overseen by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

During its review, the SEC assesses several critical factors to determine whether the altcoin is suitable for inclusion in an ETF. The agency examines the market surveillance capabilities of the exchange, ensuring it can effectively monitor trading activities to prevent fraud and manipulation. In addition, the SEC evaluates custody solutions to guarantee secure storage of the altcoin, protecting it against theft or loss. Finally, the agency considers the liquidity and market size of the altcoin, assessing its market maturity through indicators (such as trading volume and market capitalization) to ensure it can adequately support an ETF structure.

Current altcoin spot ETF application landscape

 in the United States in 2024, asset managers have expanded their focus to other cryptocurrencies. Major firms Grayscale Investments, Bitwise, VanEck and Canary Capital have filed applications with the US SEC for ETFs tied to cryptocurrencies such as 

 from Bloomberg Intelligence have assigned a 90% approval probability for a Litecoin ETF in 2025, with 

, Solana and XRP following at 75%, 70% and 65% likelihoods, respectively. 

In the international scene, Brazil's securities regulator, the Comissão de Valores Mobiliários (CVM), 

 Spot XRP ETF, the Hashdex Nasdaq XRP Index Fund. This ETF allows investors to gain direct exposure to XRP through Brazil's B3 stock exchange without the need to purchase and store the cryptocurrency themselves. 

Why is there a sudden rise in altcoin spot ETF applications?

Several factors have contributed to the surge in altcoin spot ETF applications.

An overview of altcoins with spot ETF applications

The growing interest in altcoin spot ETFs has led several asset managers in the US to file applications for a range of digital assets. Below is a detailed list of the altcoins currently targeted by spot ETF applications, along with the companies behind each filing.

 is a high-performance blockchain platform renowned for its scalability, speed and low transaction costs achieved through its unique Proof of History (PoH) 

. In February 2025, the SEC acknowledged several Spot Solana ETF applications from prominent asset managers, as follows.

Currently under review, these applications collectively carry an estimated 70% likelihood of approval, though this outlook may be affected by the regulatory classification of SOL as a security. 

 is a decentralized cryptocurrency launched in 2011 as a faster, lower-cost alternative to Bitcoin. Dubbed "digital silver," it uses a 

 (PoW) consensus mechanism and serves primarily as a payment network.

Several asset managers have submitted applications for a Spot Litecoin ETF.

The SEC’s final decisions are expected by late 2025. Bloomberg analysts estimate a 

 for Litecoin ETFs in 2025, due to Litecoin’s commodity classification and reduced regulatory risks as compared to other cryptocurrencies. Analysts also highlight that Litecoin’s technical similarities to Bitcoin are favorable factors in the ongoing review process.

’s decentralized blockchain platform is designed to enable interoperability between different blockchain networks. Pending DOT Spot ETF applications include the following.

The applications are under review by the SEC, and 21Shares recently 

its application in early March, 2025, indicating active collaboration with the SEC. 

 is a third-generation blockchain platform that uses a 

 (PoS) consensus mechanism, making it more energy-efficient than PoW blockchains. It’s known for its rigorous, peer-reviewed development process and focus on sustainability, scalability and interoperability. 

filed the first-ever (and, so far, only) Spot Cardano ETF application 

 with the SEC, aiming to list the ETF on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). 

Grayscale's Spot Cardano ETF application is currently under review by the SEC, with the regulatory body 

 on Feb 24, 2025. The SEC's decision is expected by August 2025. 

 is a decentralized public network that uses the novel 

 (based on a directed acyclic graph, or DAG) to offer high-speed, secure and energy-efficient transactions. It’s designed as an alternative to traditional blockchain systems, supporting applications across various industries like finance, gaming and healthcare. 

The following asset managers have submitted HBAR Spot ETF applications.

The SEC review process for the HBAR Spot ETFs has begun. It can take up to 240 days for a full response. However, HBAR isn’t considered a security by the SEC, which could potentially expedite the approval process for an HBAR Spot ETF. 

 is a decentralized oracle network that helps connect smart contracts to real-world data, ensuring that these contracts can securely and reliably access external information. 

Although no asset managers have filed for a Spot ETF focused solely on Chainlink (LINK), the asset is gaining exposure through broader crypto ETF filings. For instance, Hashdex's crypto ETF, which also features major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, includes Chainlink in its portfolio. This ETF application 

 on Nov 25, 2024, and is currently under review.

 cryptocurrency that originated as a satirical take on the burgeoning digital currency market. Despite its humorous beginnings, Dogecoin has developed a significant following and has been used in various charitable events and crowdfunding campaigns. 

Asset managers who have submitted applications for Dogecoin (DOGE) Spot ETFs include the following.

These applications are currently under review by the SEC, and a decision regarding Grayscale's application is anticipated by mid-October 2025. 

 blockchain platform developed by Ava Labs and launched in September 2020. It’s designed to support fast, scalable and secure 

The following asset managers have submitted applications for 

These applications are currently under review by the SEC. 

 is a Layer 1 blockchain platform developed by Aptos Labs, founded in 2021 by former Meta (Facebook) employees Mo Shaikh and Avery Ching. Leveraging the Move programming language, initially created for Meta's Diem project, Aptos aims to deliver a scalable, secure, and efficient infrastructure for DApps. 

As of now, Bitwise Asset Management is the only asset manager that has 

 for an APT Spot ETF. The application, submitted on Mar 5, 2025, is still pending with the SEC.

 is the native digital asset of the XRP Ledger, an open-source blockchain designed to facilitate fast, low-cost and energy-efficient cross-border payments. XRP aims to provide a scalable alternative to traditional financial systems such as SWIFT. 

All of these applications are currently under review by the SEC, with possible approvals expected later in the year.

 is a Layer 1 smart contract platform designed to enhance digital asset ownership by making transactions fast, secure and accessible. Its PoS consensus mechanism and use of the Move programming language enable Sui to support high-speed transactions and a wide range of DApps, positioning it as a scalable solution for various blockchain use cases. 

 with the SEC to launch an ETF tied to the spot price of SUI. This filing represents the first, and for now, only attempt to introduce a SUI-backed ETF in the United States.

The SEC has acknowledged receipt of Canary Capital's application, kicking off the regulatory review process. 

 is an Ethereum Layer 2 blockchain platform built to improve scalability and efficiency. It leverages the Move programming language for faster transaction speeds and lower costs, seeking to establish itself as a next-generation blockchain solution.

 for an ETF designed to track the MOVE token. Submitted on Mar 10, 2025, this marks the first, and currently the only, application for a MOVE Spot ETF.

The SEC is currently reviewing the application, having confirmed receipt.

Could this trend pave the way for crypto mainstream adoption?

The growing number of altcoin spot ETF applications and potential approvals could significantly impact the cryptocurrency landscape, potentially accelerating mainstream adoption. Here's how.

Historical data suggests that significant regulatory milestones, such as ETF approvals, often lead to market rallies. For instance, following the SEC's approval of Bitcoin Spot ETFs in early 2024, Bitcoin's price surged over 

, reaching a peak of $100,000. This rally contributed to the overall cryptocurrency market cap’s climb to approximately $3.5 trillion. Similarly, spot ETF approvals could trigger a bull run, as increased demand drives up prices. With easier access to crypto investments, more individuals and institutions may enter the market, further driving adoption and innovation within the ecosystem.

While the outlook is optimistic, it's essential to approach these developments with caution.

, and their market movements can be unpredictable. Investors should 

 and consider their risk tolerance before investing in cryptocurrencies or related products.

The altcoin Spot ETF landscape is rapidly expanding as asset managers like Grayscale, Bitwise, 21Shares and Canary Capital file applications for digital assets beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum. With ETFs targeting Solana, Litecoin, Polkadot, Cardano and other altcoins, these initiatives aim to enhance market accessibility and institutional participation, though final approval remains subject to regulatory review.

Intermediate

Crypto ETF landscape.png

Crypto ETF landscape: An overview of altcoins with ETF applications

Our weekly crypto derivatives analytics report delves into macro events; the current state of crypto and trading signals from spot trading volume; and futures, options and perpetual contracts.

Since hitting a local bottom on Mar 11, 2025, crypto asset prices have experienced a two-week rise, following a recovery above $87K for BTC and $2K for ETH. XRP remains stable, but BTC and ETH are still below their levels from the start of the year. SOL is also down for the year, despite reaching an all-time high (ATH) in January 2025 that coincided with the 

. While derivatives markets aren't bullish yet, they've reversed much of the bearish sentiment, although demand persists for puts on BTC and ETH.

Please check out the report’s highlights.

For most of this past week, perpetual open interest remained flat, reflecting a cautious risk-off sentiment across asset classes. This changed briefly with a partial spot recovery that allowed BTC to reach $88K (a two-week high), which led to slight increases in perp open interest and trade volume primarily driven by BTC. However, trade volumes are still significantly lower than at the start of the month when US president Donald Trump proposed a crypto strategic reserve for the big four tokens.

Negative funding rates point to bearish sentiment

Despite a week of lower realized volatility and positive performance among major crypto assets, funding rates for BTC and ETH contracts have remained mostly negative, indicating that short positions are paying long positions. This reflects a bearish sentiment not present in large-cap altcoins, whose funding rates have fluctuated between positive and negative without a clear directional trend.

Implied volatility levels have dropped by 3–5 points from last week, with 30-day options trading at their lowest level since the year's start. Realized volatility is nearing the 30% low established in late February. As is typical during periods of low volatility, options market activity has decreased, with open interest remaining low and balanced between puts and calls despite about $40M in weekly expirations.

Advanced

block-scholes-x-bybit-report.jpeg

Bybit X Block Scholes crypto derivatives analytics report (Mar 27, 2025): Cautious sentiment prevails despite price recovery

Bybit Learn

Crypto

DeFi

Explainers

Altcoins

Sky is a decentralized finance platform that evolved from MakerDAO (DAI). Learn how the new platform works in this article.

EN_2409-T35020_Learn_Read_to_Earn_728x90.png

Skinny_Banner-1600x400.webp

Sky, formerly known as MakerDAO, is redefining 

 (DeFi) with a significant transformation of its ecosystem. By introducing new features and upgraded tokens, Sky aims to enhance accessibility and drive the next era of DeFi adoption.

This article explores Sky, its history and the reasons behind the rebranding from MakerDAO. We'll also examine how the platform works, its key features, road map and new tokens, and evaluate whether SKY is a good investment in the evolving DeFi space.

 is a decentralized finance platform that evolved from MakerDAO (DAI). As the new front-end application for the Sky Protocol ecosystem, it offers an upgraded 

 system, native token rewards and a more accessible governance structure to drive the next era of DeFi adoption.

Users of Sky can interact with the protocol's features in the following ways:

Sky's roots trace back to MakerDAO, one of the pioneering projects in the DeFi space. Founded by Rune Christensen, MakerDAO introduced the concept of a decentralized 

 (DAI) backed by cryptocurrency collateral. The project gained significant traction and became a cornerstone of the DeFi ecosystem.

As the DeFi landscape evolved, the team behind MakerDAO recognized the need for further innovation and improvement. This vision led to developing the "Endgame" plan, a comprehensive strategy to enhance the protocol's capabilities and ensure its long-term sustainability.

The rebranding from MakerDAO to Sky is part of the broader Endgame strategy. According to the project's FAQ, the rebranding serves to:

Transitioning to Sky represents more than a name change — it's a fundamental shift in the project's approach to 

 (DeFi). By retaining the core principles of MakerDAO while introducing new features and a more intuitive user experience, Sky aims to bridge the gap between traditional finance and the world of DeFi.

Some of the key objectives of Sky include:

Sky operates on principles similar to its predecessor, MakerDAO, but with enhanced features and mechanisms.

Sky offers a range of innovative features designed to enhance user experience and provide new opportunities in the DeFi space.

Sky enables users to trade popular cryptocurrencies for ecosystem tokens using 

 and noncustodial pools. Users can exchange 

 and SKY for USDS, and vice versa. The platform utilizes smart contracts powered by CoW Swap to ensure efficient and secure transactions without relying on centralized entities.

Users can access Sky Token Rewards (STRs) by supplying USDS to the Sky Token Rewards module. This noncustodial feature allows participants to earn SKY 

 over time, with no minimum USDS amount required.

The reward rate fluctuates based on the token issuance rate, market price and the user's proportional supply in the pool. Subject to governance approval, users may also receive future rewards in the form of various Sky Star tokens.

The Sky Savings Rate is an evolution of the former DAI Savings Rate. It allows USDS holders to earn additional USDS over time by supplying their tokens to the SSR module. This noncustodial feature requires no minimum supply amount, and offers flexible withdrawals. The SSR is a variable rate determined by Sky ecosystem governance through decentralized on-chain voting.

Users can supply SKY tokens to the Activation module to accumulate Activation Token Rewards as USDS or various Sky Star tokens. SKY supplied to Activation doesn’t support delegation or voting, and users can activate or deactivate their SKY anytime without restrictions or fees.

Sealed Activation will enable users to seal their SKY or MKR governance tokens in order to accumulate higher Activation Token Rewards than with simple Activation. Users can delegate their voting power while their tokens are sealed. Unsealing incurs an Exit Fee, which increases over time and is set by Sky ecosystem governance.

SkyLink is an upcoming feature designed to connect Ethereum-based tokens and features to support 

 (L2) networks. This integration aims to enhance users' ability to manage their digital assets more efficiently by providing access to lower-cost platforms, which is especially beneficial for those deterred by high Ethereum 

Sky Stars are independent decentralized projects within the Sky ecosystem. Each Star operates with its own governance token, treasury and decision-making processes. Sky Stars serve as engines of scalability and innovation, enabling focused, fast-moving development and expansion.

, is already a top DeFi lending platform with over $2.5 billion in 

The Sky Atlas is the comprehensive set of rules governing the Sky ecosystem. It's a living document that evolves through improvement proposals and decentralized voting until governance determines no further modifications are necessary. The Atlas ensures that governance is shared among a diversified community aligned with the ecosystem's goals.

The Sky road map highlights recent achievements, and outlines ambitious plans for continued innovation in the DeFi space.

Sky Protocol’s road map emphasizes its commitment to decentralized expansion, continuous innovation and cross-chain 

. As the ecosystem grows, each new Sky Star is expected to develop its own road map — creating multiple threads of parallel, decentralized innovation and growth.

Sky introduces two tokens to offer enhanced functionality and opportunities for users.

SKY is the rebranded and upgraded version of the MKR token. It serves as the governance token for the entire Sky ecosystem.

USDS is the upgraded version of the DAI stablecoin.

Users can upgrade their tokens through the Sky platform. The process is voluntary, and legacy DAI and MKR tokens will continue to exist within the renamed Sky Protocol.

Following are the key aspects of SKY’s tokenomics.

The initial distribution of SKY is directly tied to existing MKR tokens:

It's important to note that some features, including Sky Token Rewards and the Sky Savings Rate, may be restricted in certain jurisdictions, including the U.S. and U.K.

, with analysts predicting SKY’s price to reach $0.0854 by the end of 2024, $0.4186 by 2028 and $0.9205 by 2030.

As SKY is a newly introduced token following the rebranding, specific price predictions are speculative and should be cautiously approached. Investors should conduct thorough research and consider the high volatility of cryptocurrency markets before making investment decisions.

Investing in SKY involves weighing potential benefits against inherent risks.

Before investing in SKY, investors should 

 and possibly consult financial advisors.

Sky builds upon MakerDAO's legacy to introduce a more accessible, innovative and decentralized platform. With its ambitious road map and plans for expansion across multiple blockchains, Sky is well-positioned to continue pushing the boundaries of DeFi.

Sky (SKY): Supercharged Upgrade of MakerDAO & DAI

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards

Grab Up to 5,000 USDT in Rewards