The crypto landscape is evolving rapidly, with major exchanges, blockchain networks, and financial institutions rolling out pivotal updates, product launches, and regulatory milestones. This week brings a wave of important events—from platform security upgrades and token unlocks to high-profile policy speeches and NFT collaborations. Whether you're a trader, developer, or long-term investor, staying informed is crucial. Here's your comprehensive preview of the most impactful developments from August 21 to 26, 2025.
🔐 Exchange Updates: Security, Listings, and Platform Changes
OKX Advances KYC Process – Complete Verification by August 21
OKX has announced an ongoing upgrade to its Know Your Customer (KYC) verification system, aimed at aligning with global compliance standards. To ensure uninterrupted access to all products and services, users are strongly advised to complete advanced identity verification by August 21, 2025, at 15:00 HKT (Beijing time).
This enhancement reflects the growing emphasis on regulatory compliance across major crypto platforms. Users who fail to verify may face restricted functionality or limited access to trading features.
👉 Secure your account access now with streamlined verification steps.
Binance Launches CYBER Perpetual Contracts
Binance will list CYBER 1-20x U-Margin perpetual contracts on August 21 at 20:00 (UTC+8). This addition expands trading options for users interested in CYBER, a project focused on decentralized AI and virtual space exploration.
With leverage support up to 20x, this contract offers increased flexibility for experienced traders looking to capitalize on market movements.
Binance Delists SNM, SRM, and YFII
On August 22, Binance will cease trading and delist Sonm (SNM), Serum (SRM), and DFI.Money (YFII) at 11:00 HKT. The decision follows Binance’s routine review process to maintain high asset quality standards. Projects that no longer meet listing criteria or face significant industry shifts may be subject to removal.
Users holding these tokens should plan withdrawals accordingly before the deadline.
LTC/BUSD and DOGE/BUSD Contracts to Be Removed
Binance Futures will automatically settle and delist LTC/BUSD and DOGE/BUSD perpetual contracts on August 24 at 17:00 (Beijing time). All open positions will be closed prior to delisting. Traders are encouraged to adjust their strategies in advance.
💰 Token Unlocks: Market Impact Ahead
Significant token unlocks are scheduled this week, potentially influencing price volatility.
- Injective (INJ): ~2.86 million tokens unlocked on August 21, valued at approximately $22 million.
- SPACE ID (ID): ~18.49 million tokens released on August 22, worth around $3.7 million.
- 1inch (1INCH): ~274,000 tokens unlocked on August 24, valued at $68,000.
- Acala (ACA): ~4.66 million tokens unlocked on August 25, worth about $220,000.
- Avalanche (AVAX): A major unlock of ~9.54 million AVAX tokens, valued at $100 million, occurs on August 26.
- Lido DAO (LDO): ~8.5 million LDO tokens unlocked at 1:51 UTC on August 26, totaling ~$14.2 million.
These unlocks could increase sell pressure, especially for AVAX and LDO. Investors should monitor trading volume and whale movements closely.
👉 Stay ahead of market shifts with real-time data analysis tools.
🚀 Project Developments: NFTs, Upgrades & Ecosystem Growth
Adidas x BAPE Launch Limited NFT Sneakers
On August 22, Adidas Originals teams up with iconic Japanese streetwear brand BAPE to launch the Triple-White Forum 84 BAPE Low — a limited-edition sneaker tied to an NFT. Only 100 physical pairs will be available via auction on the Adidas Collect platform.
Each shoe includes an NFC chip embedded in the tongue, allowing owners to scan and verify authenticity through a linked NFT. This marks Adidas’ first NFT-backed sneaker auction, blending physical collectibles with digital ownership.
EigenLayer Increases LST Re-Staking Limit
EigenLayer, the Ethereum re-staking protocol, will raise its LST (Liquid Staking Token) re-staking cap on August 22 at 22:00 (Beijing time). Users can now deposit stETH, rETH, or cbETH until any single asset reaches 100,000 tokens.
Additionally, EigenLayer is preparing to launch its Operator Testnet, featuring EigenDA validation services and enhanced delegation tools in the upcoming M2 testnet phase.
Sentiment V1 to Be Retired
DeFi lending protocol Sentiment will officially deactivate its V1 platform on August 22 due to scalability limitations in its original architecture. While new loans have already been halted since August 15, existing users can still repay debts and withdraw funds.
The team is actively developing Sentiment V2, incorporating insights from extensive research aimed at building a more robust and scalable system.
Shibarium Returns to Public Access
After entering safety mode due to overwhelming traffic post-launch, Shibarium is set to reopen to the public on August 21. The team has completed security enhancements and stress testing during a private phase, ensuring smoother performance upon relaunch.
🏛️ Regulatory & Policy Milestones
UK Consultation on Digital Securities Sandbox Ends August 22
The UK Treasury’s consultation period for the Digital Securities Sandbox (DSS) concludes on August 22. The DSS aims to create a regulated environment where firms can test digital asset infrastructure under temporary legal modifications.
This initiative supports innovation while maintaining investor protection — a balanced approach gaining traction globally.
FCA Enforces “Travel Rule” Compliance by August 25
The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) requires all local crypto firms to implement the "Travel Rule" by August 25, mandating the collection and sharing of sender/receiver information for crypto transfers starting September 1.
This aligns crypto regulations with traditional financial systems to combat money laundering and enhance transparency.
FTX Dubai Hearing Scheduled for August 23
A US bankruptcy court hearing is set for August 23 regarding FTX’s request to exclude its Dubai subsidiary from American Chapter 11 proceedings. FTX Dubai claims it was solvent and inactive before the parent company’s collapse, making UAE-led liquidation more appropriate.
🌐 Community & Developer Events
ConsenSys Hackathon Ends August 21
The global virtual hackathon "Not Another Virtual Hackathon", hosted by ConsenSys, wraps up on August 21 after over six weeks of development. With a prize pool of $115,500, the event drew innovators building on Ethereum and related Web3 technologies.
Istanbul Blockchain Week & Gamescom Kick Off
- Istanbul Blockchain Week runs from August 21–25, bringing together builders, investors, and policymakers.
- The world-famous gaming expo Gamescom takes place in Cologne from August 23–27, spotlighting blockchain integration in gaming and digital ownership.
FAQ Section
Q: Why is OKX upgrading its KYC process?
A: OKX is enhancing its KYC system to comply with evolving global regulations and improve platform security. Full verification ensures uninterrupted access to trading and withdrawal features.
Q: What happens if I don’t complete KYC before August 21?
A: Users who haven’t completed advanced verification may experience restricted access to services or delayed withdrawals. Support is available 24/7 for assistance.
Q: How might the AVAX token unlock affect its price?
A: Large unlocks like AVAX’s $100M release can increase selling pressure. However, market reaction depends on overall sentiment, demand, and whether recipients are long-term holders or early investors.
Q: Is the Adidas x BAPE NFT sneaker only digital?
A: No — it's a physical sneaker with an embedded NFC chip linked to an NFT for authentication and proof of ownership.
Q: Can I still participate in the ConsenSys hackathon?
A: The submission window closed on August 21. Winners are expected to be announced shortly after judging concludes.
Q: What is the purpose of the Travel Rule in crypto?
A: The Travel Rule helps prevent illicit activity by requiring crypto firms to share identity details of senders and receivers during transactions — similar to traditional banking standards.
Core Keywords
cryptocurrency news, token unlock schedule, KYC verification, NFT sneakers, blockchain events, DeFi updates, regulatory compliance
👉 Get prepared for upcoming market movements with advanced trading tools.