Bitcoin Lightning Startup Goes Beta With Twitter CEO Backing (CoinDesk.com)
A version of bitcoin’s much-anticipated Lightning Network is finally ready for real users. Announced today, California startup Lightning Labs has officially launched a beta version of its software (LND), making available what investors and project leads say is the first thoroughly tested version of the tech to date. This means that users can now leverage LND to send bitcoin and litecoin to other users, all without settling those transactions on the blockchain. While this software is one of several seeking to form a combined network that aims to make cryptocurrency transactions faster and cheaper, today’s development effectively takes bitcoin a step closer to new kinds of applications, such as Internet of Things payments and recurring billing.
Ethereum’s First Production Scaling Project Is Here – But With a Catch (CoinDesk.com)
A TechStars-incubated startup has launched what looks like the first production-ready platform designed to increase the capacity of ethereum. Called Loom Network, the little-known company is today releasing a developer toolkit that makes it possible to deploy scalable ethereum apps on the second-largest cryptocurrency network, effectively leapfrogging ongoing efforts such as Raiden Network and Plasma. For network users, the timing of the release couldn’t be more welcome. Scaling has long been top of mind for stakeholders of major cryptocurrencies, and on ethereum ever since CryptoKitties congested the network late last year.
Ripple’s [XRP] Continues to Build Partnerships – BBVA Compass Next on the List (AMBCrypto.com)
Ripple [XRP] has been covering the headlines ever since the giants like Moneygram, Fleetcor and Western Union favored Ripple’s xRapid ever since their declaration publicly. BBVA, the Spanish banking giant released a statement: “Our recent crypto tests involving Ripple have been successful.” BBVA Compass: BBVA Compass aims to create opportunities for a brighter future by understanding that every individual and company has unique dreams and ambitions, needs and wants. It is the second largest bank in Spain and was formed from a merger of Banco Bilbao Vizcaya and Argentaria back in 1999. They have tested XRP successfully which will facilitate cross-border payments between various countries within Europe and Latin America. These regions possess a good economic presence for the bank and will contribute majorly to digital development.
LiteCoin (LTC): LitePay Is Not Going To Happen (GlobalCoinReport.com)
LitePay was announced to be released first around the end of February 2018, then was rescheduled for launching at the beginning of March. However, all LiteCoin users that have taken time to apply for LitePay by pre-registering have gotten interesting, although a disappointing email from LiteCoin development team in charge of LitePay project. The email stated that LitePay was delayed for indefinitely. That means that LitePay may never happen, at least not in the near future. LitePay was supposed to represent an easy way to make transactions anywhere in the world at the tip of your finger – easy, simple and with only a couple of clicks away. LitePay project was also planned to have LitePay Debit Cards, similar to those MasterCard and Visa are issuing. So, with LitePay, you would be able to make transactions easily anywhere in the world while also being able to send LiteCoin units from any wallet to the LitePay Debit Card.
Litecoin To Skyrocket In Value (CryptoDaily.co.uk)
At a time when all major cryptocurrencies seem to be taking a dip in value, it is refreshing to hear a success story. Litecoin is set to skyrocket in value this year, after suggestions that it could be added to the hugely popular Gemini crypto exchange. Litecoin is currently valued at approximately $179.61, but this could change dramatically if they are to be added onto the exchange. Gemini exchange is owned and run by the Winklevoss brothers, and they have said that this year is going to look very different thanks to a great Wall Street involvement. He said; “In 2018, you’re really going to see institutions and Wall Street really get in, and it’s going to look very different.”
