The crypto space saw several key updates today. Ethical hackers are making millions finding bugs in DeFi platforms. The idea of a U.S. Bitcoin reserve is back in the spotlight. And Gemini’s public listing drew strong attention on the Nasdaq.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the main stories.
Web3 Hackers Are Earning More Than Cybersecurity Jobs
A growing number of independent hackers are earning far more than standard tech salaries. These white hats work in Web3. They search for flaws in DeFi platforms and get paid based on what they find.
Mitchell Amador, who runs Immunefi, a bug bounty site, said: “Our leaderboard shows researchers earning millions per year, compared to typical cybersecurity salaries of $150-300k.”
Immunefi says it has paid out more than $120 million. At least 30 people using the platform have now made over $1 million each.
These researchers don’t work regular jobs. They choose what projects to look at. They work on their own time. Their income depends on the size and seriousness of each bug they report. For some, that means large payouts. In Web3, the stakes are high—and so are the rewards.
U.S. Bitcoin Reserve Still on the Table, Says Analyst
Talks about a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve are not over. Alex Thorn, who leads research at Galaxy Digital, said the government may still move forward with the plan by year-end.
“I still think there’s a strong chance the US government will announce this year that it has formed the strategic Bitcoin reserve (SBR) and is formally holding BTC as a strategic asset,” Thorn posted on X.
Back in March, an executive order was signed to explore a digital asset reserve. Since then, no formal update has been given.
Some in the crypto space are doubtful. Setting up a reserve would need more than a single announcement. It would take planning, structure, and clear legal steps. Still, the idea is gaining fresh attention, especially as Bitcoin plays a larger role in global markets.
Gemini Shares Rise After Nasdaq Listing
Gemini’s stock made its public debut today. The exchange, founded by the Winklevoss twins, started trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker GEMI.
The IPO was priced at $28 per share. The stock opened strong and climbed to over $40 before dropping slightly. By mid-afternoon, it was trading around $35, giving Gemini a market value of about $1.3 billion.
Gemini raised $425 million by selling 15.2 million shares. Demand was high. The final price came in above both its original and revised target ranges.
The company moved quickly from its SEC filing to its first day of trading. Only ten days passed between those two steps. The listing reflects rising investor interest in regulated crypto businesses.
Focus Grows on Safety and Market Growth
As crypto expands, the push for better security continues. Platforms like Immunefi have become key tools in helping projects protect their code. At the same time, more firms are looking to go public. Gemini’s strong first day may encourage others to follow.
Regulators are also watching closely. If talk of a Bitcoin reserve moves forward, it could mark a new phase in how governments view digital assets—not just as a market, but as part of broader financial strategy.
