Weekly Brief | 04.23.25
 
 
Chainalysis Research and Analysis
 
 

As blockchain adoption extends beyond cryptocurrency, one of the most exciting frontiers is the tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) — physical or financial instruments like real estate, private equity, or fine art that already hold value in the traditional economy. ERC-3643 is a token standard built on Ethereum for creating and managing RWAs, merging the compliance standards of TradFi with the efficiency and transparency of blockchain. In our latest blog, we explore:

  • How compliance-driven tokenization works: ERC-3643 helps token issuers build important rules — such as KYC/AML checks, jurisdictional controls, and investor verification — right into token logic. These rules are enforced on-chain with decentralized identifiers (DIDs), ensuring only eligible participants can hold or transfer assets.
  • Why it matters across industries: This standard isn’t just for finance; ERC-3643 enables secure, compliant value exchange across sectors like gaming, fine art, and sustainability.
  • Seamless global liquidity: ERC-3643 allows 24/7 global trading and real-time settlement with clear records of every transaction. That means fewer delays and lower costs, all while maintaining regulatory trust.

Learn more about how ERC-3643 is turning RWA tokenization into a compliance-forward, scalable reality.

 
 
NCET Disbanded: What the “Blanche Memo” Means for the Digital Asset Ecocystem
This month, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche issued a memo officially disbanding the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET), calling for an end to “prosecution by regulation” and directing the agency to shift its focus. The DOJ will prioritize the criminal misuse of digital assets — particularly through fraud, organized crime, and terrorism financing — while stepping back from technical regulatory violations, unless there’s clear willful enablement of illicit activity. Chainalysis recognizes the DOJ’s world-class capabilities in tackling complex crimes with a crypto nexus. We're proud to support these efforts with advanced data, tools, and training.

Learn more about what the DOJ’s refined strategic priority means for Chainalysis and the industry at large.

 
 
Chainalysis Highlights
 
 

Chengyi Ong, Head of Policy for APAC, spoke with Singapore’s The Business Times about SGX’s entry into bitcoin futures, noting how the move strengthens Singapore’s reputation as a hub for crypto innovation and also reflects the rising demand for institutional grade digital assets exposure.

Chainalysis’ Juan Montaner was interviewed by the Spanish outlet Cinco Días, speaking to the success of Chainalysis-assisted Operation Bonanza in Spain and emphasizing that the future of enforcement is in prevention and early detection.

Chainalysis’ Nicola Buonanno was featured in the Italian edition of The Cryptonomist, discussing the evolution of crypto-related crime and how Chainalysis is equipping institutions with real-time actionable intelligence.

 
 
Chainalysis Events
 
 

Couldn’t attend Chainalysis Links in person? The digital premiere brings key insights from investigators, compliance professionals, and web3 security experts straight to you in the comfort of home. The sessions will explore the state of the industry, global policy developments, and expert-led demos with real-world case studies. Register for free.

Attention compliance pros: Attending ACAMS: The Assembly Hollywood? Join the Chainalysis team in sunny Florida for an exclusive rooftop happy hour after Day 2. Space is limited, RSVP today!

 
 
Cryptocurrency News
 
 

Crime

How North Korean hackers are targeting crypto developers with fake jobs

UK narcotics gang launched its own cryptocurrency to launder criminal proceeds in first-of-its kind case in Britain

Spanish court clerk arrested for stealing €19M worth of seized cryptocurrency

REGULATION

New U.S. SEC Chair Paul Atkins vows to take ‘rational, coherent and principled’ approach to digital assets regulation

U.S. lawmaker propose bill to end Puerto Rico’s status as a tax haven for crypto investors

Slovenia’s finance ministry moves to tax crypto gains at 25%

ADOPTION

Bitcoin becomes the fifth largest global asset, surpassing Google in market cap

Panama City will accept bitcoin and ether payments for tax and public services

Coinbase confirms it is exploring a U.S. banking license to further integrate crypto and TradFi

 
 
 
 
Who are we?
 
 

Chainalysis is the blockchain data platform. We provide data, software, services, and research to government agencies, exchanges, financial institutions, and insurance and cybersecurity companies in over 70 countries. Our data powers investigation, compliance, and market intelligence software that has been used to solve some of the world’s most high-profile criminal cases and grow consumer access to cryptocurrency safely. Backed by Accel, Addition, Benchmark, Coatue, GIC, Paradigm, Ribbit, and other leading firms in venture capital, Chainalysis builds trust in blockchains to promote more financial freedom with less risk. For more information, visit www.chainalysis.com.