2025-08-17 Market Watch: Crypto markets see big moves from IPOs, partnerships, and institutional interest

Here is what happened yesterday in the crypto market:

Gemini Prepares for Nasdaq IPO with Top Banks

Crypto exchange Gemini has filed an updated registration statement for its initial public offering, selecting Goldman Sachs, Citi, Morgan Stanley, and Cantor as lead bookrunners. This move signals Gemini’s strong push to become a publicly traded firm, following a strong debut for its Class A common stock on the Nasdaq.
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Nasdaq-Listed Pharma Distributor Adopts XRP Ledger for Payments

Wellgistics Health Inc. is implementing an XRP Ledger-based payment system for thousands of pharmacies across the United States. This strategic adoption deepens the company’s commitment to blockchain technology as it aims to revolutionize healthcare finance by streamlining payments.
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BlackRock’s CIO Calls Current Market the ‘Best Investment Environment Ever’

Rick Rieder, Chief Investment Officer of Global Fixed Income at BlackRock, stated that the current economic landscape offers the most favorable investment environment he has ever seen. He cited unusually positive market dynamics as the reason for his optimistic outlook, suggesting significant opportunities for investors.
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Adam Back’s $2.1B Bitcoin Treasury Play Challenges MARA Holdings

Bitcoin Standard Treasury Co. (BSTR), a new bitcoin treasury vehicle led by cryptography pioneer Adam Back, aims to accelerate real-world Bitcoin adoption. With a projected $2.1 billion in holdings, BSTR is poised to become a significant player, potentially rivaling Marathon Digital (MARA) in Bitcoin holdings.
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UAE Crypto Sector Projected to Be Second Largest in 5 Years

The crypto sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on track to become the country’s second-largest industry within the next five years. This rapid growth is attributed to the UAE’s progressive regulatory policies and a business-friendly environment that attracts significant investment and innovation in the digital asset space.
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