Weekly Article Recap: 5/19-5/23

The Stories that You Can’t Afford to Miss This Week

As the DeFi and crypto space continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it's essential to stay informed 

about the latest developments and trends. Our weekly recap provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the most significant news and trends in the DeFi and crypto space, helping you stay informed and up-to-date with the latest happenings.

Ripple Expands UAE Reach with Zand Bank and Mamo Partnership

Ripple is expanding its footprint in the Middle East, partnering with UAE-based Zand Bank and fintech firm Mamo. The move follows Ripple securing a DFSA license, enabling the rollout of its blockchain-powered Ripple Payments service in the region.

Both institutions will use Ripple Payments to streamline cross-border transactions, leveraging blockchain for faster, cheaper, and more transparent international transfers.

Read the full story.

MicroStrategy to Raise Another $2B for Bitcoin — What Does It Mean?

Michael Saylor’s Strategy, formerly MicroStrategy, plans to raise up to $2.1 billion through the sale of 10% Series A Perpetual Preferred Stock (STRF), according to a recent SEC filing. The offering will be made via an at-the-market (ATM) program, allowing flexible issuance based on market conditions.

The preferred shares offer a fixed 10% annual dividend and give Strategy the option to pause dividends or buy back stock—moves that add flexibility amid crypto market volatility.

Details in the article.

Solana Seeker Web3 Phone Set to Launch on August 4: Details

Solana Mobile has confirmed an August 4 launch for its second-generation Web3 smartphone, the Seeker. With over 150,000 pre-orders, the $450–$500 device is set to generate more than $67 million in gross revenue. Packed with crypto-native features like cryptographic attestation and tokenized incentives, the Seeker signals Solana’s broader ambition to challenge Apple and Google with a decentralized mobile ecosystem.

Find Seeker launch details.

Vivek Ramaswamy’s Strive Eyes 75,000 Bitcoin From Mt. Gox Claims

Strive Enterprises, led by ex-presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, plans to acquire up to 75,000 BTC through distressed crypto claims, focusing on assets tied to the Mt. Gox bankruptcy.

Announced May 20, 2025, the move comes through a partnership with 117 Castell Advisory Group. Strive is targeting settled but undistributed claims to access Bitcoin at discounted rates.

Read the full story.

Floki’s TokenFi Becomes Title Sponsor of West Indies Tour of Ireland 2025

Floki’s TokenFi platform has been unveiled as the title sponsor for the West Indies Tour of Ireland 2025. The series, running from May 21 to June 15, features three ODIs in Dublin and three T20Is in Northern Ireland. The deal is expected to boost TokenFi’s global visibility, with the tour projected to reach over 20 million viewers.

Learn more in the article.