Welcome to This Week in Crypto, your go-to roundup of the latest developments in the crypto world. In this edition, we cover Mastercard’s new partnership with Mercuryo, enabling crypto spending from self-custodial wallets at millions of merchants. We also cover the rapid rise of Neiro on Ethereum, which surged 233% and broke into the top 25 meme coins after major exchange listings. Plus, we take a look at Mysten Labs’ exciting plans to launch a blockchain-powered handheld gaming device, the SuiPlay0X1. Stay tuned for all the key updates shaping the future of crypto and blockchain!
Mastercard Enables Self-Custodial Crypto Spending with Mercuryo
Mastercard is taking significant steps to support cryptocurrency by enabling non-custodial wallet users to spend their digital assets more easily. Through a new partnership with crypto payments provider Mercuryo, Mastercard has introduced a euro-denominated crypto debit card, allowing users to spend Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies from self-custodial wallets at over 100 million merchants in the Mastercard network. This follows their recent collaboration with MetaMask and underscores Mastercard’s commitment to bridging traditional finance with crypto.
Self-custodial wallets, which give users complete control over their funds without relying on third parties, are gaining more traction in the crypto space. Mastercard’s push into this area reflects its aim to simplify the crypto purchasing process by removing the need for centralized exchanges. Christian Rau, Mastercard’s senior VP of crypto and fintech enablement, emphasized that this partnership aims to enhance the self-custody experience, making crypto spending more accessible and secure for everyday transactions.
Shiba Inu-Themed Neiro on Ethereum Enters Top 25 Meme Coins
Neiro on Ethereum (NEIRO) has surged into the top 25 meme coins by market cap after a 233% increase, following its listings on major crypto exchanges like Binance, Crypto.com, HTX, and OKX. The token’s rise comes after a period of competition among meme coins, sparked by the adoption of a new Shiba Inu named Neiro by the owner of Kabosu, the Dogecoin mascot. The listings and the popularity of the new dog-themed token have helped Neiro on Ethereum pull ahead of its rivals, with a market cap now reaching $161 million.
The coin’s rapid growth has dealt a blow to its competitors, with its largest Ethereum rival falling 47% and its Solana competitor dropping 22%. Neiro’s market cap now surpasses other popular meme coins. The success of Neiro has been supported by influencers, who called for unity within the meme coin community, encouraging collaboration instead of competition among fans of Shiba-Inu-themed tokens.
Mysten Labs Unveils New Web3 Gaming Handheld, the SuiPlay0X1
Mysten Labs has opened preorders for its $599 handheld gaming device, the SuiPlay0X1, with deliveries expected in the first half of 2025. The device will integrate blockchain technology to support both PC and Sui blockchain-based games, showcasing how Web3 technology can enhance gaming without disrupting traditional experiences. Unlike Web2 gaming, where game assets and progress are typically controlled by developers or platforms, Web3 gaming allows players to own in-game assets through blockchain, providing true ownership that can be traded or transferred outside the game. Mysten Labs hopes to highlight this ownership advantage with the SuiPlay0X1.
Running on Playtron GameOS, the SuiPlay0X1 will support AAA PC games and titles. Preorders can be paid with Sui, Ether, or Solana, and more than 1,000 orders have already been placed. Mysten Labs, founded by former Meta executives, joins a competitive handheld gaming market alongside companies like Valve and Asus, aiming to push the boundaries of gaming by incorporating blockchain for a more engaging and player-driven experience.
