The cryptocurrency is preparing for an action-packed week ahead with major events expected to take place. Investors and enthusiasts alike are eagerly tracking major $token unlocks for projects such as Arbitrum and Starknet. They are monitoring the introduction of new perpetual contracts on Coinbase International and the possible relaunch of WazirX. Adding a touch of traditional finance to the mix, Galaxy Digital Inc. will begin trading on Nasdaq, while Steak 'n Shake will start accepting Bitcoin payments, signaling a growing integration of crypto into everyday commerce. From interesting legislation to persuasive political theater, this week has it all and may well determine what the near future of crypto looks like.

Token Unlocks and Potential Launches

A number of these projects have large token unlocks this week, which could mean interesting dynamics in their respective markets. Then, Arbitrum (ARB), which is slated to unlock around 92.65 million tokens on May 16. This amounts to just 1.95% of the existing circulation, worth approximately $42.7 million.

On May 15, Starknet (STRK) has an unlock of approximately 127 million tokens. This event is 4.09% of its circulating supply and is worth around $23 million. On May 18, MELANIA-Meme (MELANIA) will release ~26.25 million tokens on the token’s one-year anniversary. This release accounts for 6.63% of the current circulation and is worth approximately $10.4 million. The market puts a lot of scrutiny on these unlocks. How those new tokens are released can make a big difference on how new tokens are priced.

To further hype things up, Obol Collective is rumored to release its OBOL token as soon as May 15. Though little information is currently available, such launches typically create a buzz around the community. Acurast’s token sale will be debuting on CoinList on May 16. The offering features 100% unlocked tokens.

Exchange Developments and Listings

Coinbase International is adding a new pair to its offerings! They’ve recently added support for Space and Time perpetual contracts on the Coinbase International Exchange and Coinbase Advanced. In addition to the listing on Coinbase International, perpetual contract trading for SXT will go live on Coinbase International on May 15. These additions stand to give traders additional leeway within the Coinbase ecosystem.

As one of the recent additions, Alpha Points consumption mechanism will be introduced on May 13. This addition would surely give users more of a reason to interact with each other and be active on the platform. WazirX, an Indian cryptocurrency exchange, which was recently shut down by the government, could possibly resume operations later this month. The court in Singapore is expected to decide on its restructuring and user compensation plan on May 13. This decision is hugely important for the exchange’s future, and the compensation it is able to provide its users.

The other important player in the crypto investment space is Galaxy Digital Inc. Soon, it will begin trading on the Nasdaq with the ticker symbol GLXY. It means the company will keep its primary listing on Toronto Stock Exchange — for now. Galaxy Digital’s move is a big one. It increases its visibility and makes it more accessible to a greater variety of investors.

Integration with Traditional Finance and Deadlines

Steak ‘n Shake, America’s favorite fast casual diner — mmm! Beginning May 16, it will accept Bitcoin payments at all of its locations. This transition is an extraordinary illustration of how cryptocurrency is being adopted in real-world commerce. More importantly, it would encourage other companies and business sectors to follow suit.

BlockFi is asking creditors to take steps as soon as possible and to make their claims against the bankruptcy payouts. The deadline to submit these comments is May 15th. In the case of the settlements, this proposed rule serves as a powerful reminder for implementers to do more to recover their deferred assets. Resolv tweeted on X Platform that registration for the RESOLV Token Genesis Event is open. Registration, which is required to receive an airdrop, closes on May 17th.

Photo via sns.sol On Tuesday, October 24th, SNS token airdrop allocation eligibility query open. The SNS airdrop commenced on May 13. WLFI has launched a Snapshot proposal to "airdrop USD1 stablecoin to $WLFI holders," with the voting deadline set for May 14. Whether through airdrops or proposal competitions meant to elicit diverse community engagement, these efforts are ultimately meant to distribute and decentralize tokens.