This week in web3 #12
Every Friday afternoon, we share with you the most important news of the week in the world of web3.
1️⃣ Silvergate bank is crashing
Let's start with some bad news... Crypto bank Silvergate has cut 40% of its staff (or about 200 employees), the company said on Thursday, news that sent its shares down 46% to $11.76. https://www.coindesk.com/business/2023/01/05/silvergate-cuts-40-jobs-writes-off-diem-asset-acquisition/
2️⃣ 14 years since the first Bitcoin block
Tuesday marked the 14-year anniversary of when Satoshi Nakamoto mined the first Bitcoin block. https://www.coindesk.com/tech/2023/01/03/the-genesis-block-the-first-bitcoin-block/
3️⃣ Avalanche and Shopify are joining forces
Avalanche NFTs are now available to millions of Shopify merchants through Venly. Merchants can now easily design, mint, and sell NFTs in just a few clicks. https://medium.com/avalancheavax/millions-of-shopify-merchants-can-now-use-avalanche-nfts-through-venly-e7f27711458a
4️⃣ BMW goes web3 in Thailand
BMW has partnered with Coinweb to introduce blockchain-based tools to its operations. Among other things, the company will develop a rewards program for its customers in Thailand. https://news.bitcoin.com/bmw-partners-with-coinweb-to-develop-blockchain-based-vehicle-financing-automation-and-loyalty-program-in-thailand/
5️⃣ Eisenberg arrested in Puerto Rico
Avraham Eisenberg, the crypto trader behind the $110 million exploit of the decentralized exchange Mango Markets (not to be confused with Heisenberg aka Walter White), has been arrested in Puerto Rico and charged with market manipulation and fraud. https://cointelegraph.com/news/maybe-it-was-illegal-mango-markets-exploiter-arrested-on-fraud-charges
6️⃣ Web3 startups raised $7.1B in 2022
The web3 space raised $7.1 billion in funding throughout 2022, with gaming, metaverse, and social networks being the top three investment categories. https://cryptoslate.com/web3-startups-raised-7b-funding-in-2022-with-gaming-accounting-for-62/