Jun 3, 2026
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[Reporter's Notebook] The Too-Fast Changing Coin Ecosystem and the 'Fate' That Befell Staking Regulation

These days, the proverb "there is nothing permanent in this world" is deeply felt. Compared to just a few years ago, the current pace of change is unimaginably

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  • These days, the proverb "there is nothing permanent in this world" is deeply felt. Compared to just a few years ago, the current pace of change is unimaginably
[Reporter's Notebook] The Too-Fast Changing Coin Ecosystem and the 'Fate' That Befell Staking Regulation

These days, the proverb "there is nothing permanent in this world" is deeply felt. Compared to just a few years ago, the current pace of change is unimaginably fast. In particular, it is time to newly add 'agile ability to cope with change' to the essential virtues that CEOs must possess. A partner's change is now akin to fate, and companies must learn how to survive amidst it.

The biggest issue recently is undoubtedly 'staking.' Signs of a major shift in the perspective on staking are becoming clear, which was triggered when a global exchange was charged by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over staking-related matters.

Staking is a method where holders deposit their digital assets into blockchain infrastructure and receive rewards in return. Platforms utilize the tokens deposited by users for operation and validation, providing benefits accordingly. In this respect, staking can be seen as a kind of 'crypto interest.' Staking has established itself as one of the key systems in the token ecosystem, as holders enjoy a certain level of reward while fulfilling their role as members.

SEC Chairman Gary Gensler recently stated on his Twitter, "The SEC charged Kraken for offering and selling unregistered securities through its staking-as-a-service program," adding, "Whether it’s through staking-as-a-service, lending, or other means, crypto intermediaries must provide the proper disclosures and safeguards required by law."

The global crypto market was shaken by the news that Kraken, the world's second-largest exchange, would halt staking. Furthermore, it was also reported that the stock price of Nasdaq-listed Coinbase plummeted.

Various crypto exchanges in Korea are also operating staking systems. Therefore, some are raising their voices, saying that the SEC's charges against Kraken cannot simply be dismissed as someone else's problem. Although the authorities' future stance remains unclear, any measure could deal a massive shock to domestic crypto holders.

The crypto market, which had regained vitality early this year with talks of the U.S. moderating its rate hikes, is now rushing into an unpredictable phase. The fact that systems deeply rooted in the existing blockchain market, such as staking, could become grounds for illegality means that nothing can be taken for granted.

From an investor's perspective, one could suffer huge losses if they approach the market merely with the vague expectation that an uptrend will arrive as interest rate hikes slow down. It is no exaggeration to say that investors find themselves in a precarious crisis amidst this rapidly changing situation. It is an anxious market trend to simply sit back and do nothing.

One must pay close attention with their "five senses" to protect their assets against upcoming situations. Aside from the staking issue, another problem could suddenly pop up. Investors must always keep in mind to choose a better investment ecosystem within the flow of these changes.

▶ End at Once - Danbak Tip ▶ Making Articles from Videos 'Beagle Talk' CBC News | CBCNEWS Reporter Kwon Oh-sung kos@cbci.co.kr