The year 2024 has brought renewed hope for the crypto industry. With the approval of Bitcoin ETFs in January, the market has experienced a surge, with Bitcoin reaching an unprecedented high of over $72,000. Inflows of funds into crypto investment products have also broken records, with six consecutive weeks of significant growth in February and March, approaching the levels seen in 2021. These positive developments, combined with the upcoming Bitcoin halving and potential loosening of monetary policy, have created opportunities for more institutions to explore the world of crypto.
On March 7, Cointelegraph’s AMA on X (formerly Twitter) addressed these significant market developments and also shed light on the features of M2, a comprehensive crypto investment platform catering to both institutional and retail investors. The show featured Stefan Kimmel, the CEO of M2, as a guest speaker.
Kimmel strongly believes in the role of ETFs in building credibility for institutions. He stated, “In the past, institutions have been skeptical about crypto, which has deterred other investors as well. However, now the perception of crypto has completely changed, thanks to the credibility, sponsorship, and support from institutions.” He also emphasized that Bitcoin (BTC) will continue to be the focal point, with ETFs reducing regulatory debates regarding its classification as a security and making it a lower-risk investment option. Kimmel noted that institutions are bringing in much larger investments compared to retail investors.
Kimmel highlighted the prevalence of large over-the-counter (OTC) trades focused on Bitcoin, stating that the same trends are evident within M2. However, he also mentioned that altcoins, such as the platform’s utility token MMX, are gaining momentum and attracting institutional interest.
MMX’s primary use case is to enhance returns within M2’s Earn program. By burning MMX tokens, users can increase their yields on locked crypto holdings. This burning mechanism also reduces the overall supply of MMX, which initially had a supply of 500 million tokens. MMX holders can also enjoy reduced trading fees, a rewards program, and access to higher tiers within the upcoming payment card program.
M2 prioritizes user empowerment by offering features that make crypto more accessible and appealing to retail investors. The platform’s flagship product, the Earn program, offers flexible lockup periods and interest earned in the deposited currency, with rates as high as 10.5% for Bitcoin and Ethereum. Additionally, there is an early redemption option available for unexpected needs, albeit with a fee.
Amid the increasing institutional interest in crypto, concerns may arise regarding whether this shift contradicts the core principles of Web3. Kimmel addressed this issue, stating that M2 accepts all types of investors, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and institutions, to promote trade finance solutions. The platform also plans to launch a U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin, aiming to simplify payments in the trade finance space.
M2’s roadmap for the future includes the introduction of crypto lending, additional investment options, and structured products. Kimmel also teased upcoming features such as crypto debit cards, the launch of a referral program, and additional language support.
To learn more about M2 and its offerings, please visit their website.
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