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CTO Realty Growth, Inc. (CTO) Q3 2025 Earnings Call Transcript

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Operator: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by. Welcome to CTO Realty Growth’s Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Call. [Operator Instructions] Please be advised that today’s conference is being recorded.

I would now like to turn the conference over to Jenna McKinney, Director of Finance. Please go ahead, Jenna.

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**Jenna McKinney:**
Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us today for the CTO Realty Growth Third Quarter 2025 Operating Results Conference Call.

Participating on the call this morning are John Albright, President and Chief Executive Officer; Philip Mays, Chief Financial Officer; and other members of the executive team who will be available to answer questions during the call.

I would like to remind everyone that many of our comments today are considered forward-looking statements under federal securities laws. The company’s actual future results may differ significantly from the matters discussed in these forward-looking statements, and we undertake no duty to update these statements.

Factors and risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations are discussed from time to time in greater detail in the company’s Form 10-K, Form 10-Q, and other SEC filings.

You can find our SEC reports, earnings release, supplemental information, and the most recent investor presentation on our website at [ctoreit.com](http://ctoreit.com).

With that, I will turn the call over to John.
https://seekingalpha.com/article/4834899-cto-realty-growth-inc-cto-q3-2025-earnings-call-transcript?source=feed_all_articles

Argentina’s Milei Strengthens Political Power Amid LIBRA Scandal

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**Milei’s La Libertad Avanza Party Wins Big in Argentina’s 2025 Midterms Amid Ongoing LIBRA Crypto Scandal**

Argentine President Javier Milei’s party, La Libertad Avanza (LLA), secured a significant victory in the 2025 midterm legislative elections, capturing nearly 41% of the national vote. This impressive win bolsters Milei’s influence in Congress and strengthens his position to advance his reform agenda. However, the triumph comes amid an escalating LIBRA cryptocurrency scandal that continues to erode public trust and intensify legal scrutiny surrounding Milei and his associates.

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### Victory in the 2025 Midterms

La Libertad Avanza emerged as a dominant political force in Argentina’s 2025 midterm elections, making notable gains in key districts such as Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Córdoba, and Santa Fe. With approximately 41% of the vote, LLA surpassed the Peronist alliance, which garnered 31.6%.

Following the elections, LLA now holds 101 out of 257 seats in the Chamber of Deputies, a substantial increase that enhances Milei’s legislative leverage. This expanded control is expected to facilitate the passage of Milei’s ambitious reforms in tax policy, labor laws, and pensions.

Reflecting on the victory, Milei stated, “During the first two years, we avoided falling off the cliff. In the next two years, we will continue the reformist path to make Argentina great again.”

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### LIBRA Crypto Scandal Continues to Unfold

Despite his electoral success, Milei’s association with the LIBRA cryptocurrency project has sparked ongoing controversy. The scandal began when Milei publicly endorsed LIBRA, a meme coin that saw a rapid rise in market capitalization.

However, the coin’s value crashed after insiders sold off their holdings, causing significant losses for investors. Although Milei has since distanced himself from LIBRA and denied direct involvement in its operations, the fallout severely impacted his public approval.

A recent Zuban Córdoba survey indicates only 36% of Argentinians still support Milei, while 57.6% express distrust in his leadership. This sharp decline in confidence has led to both criminal and congressional investigations targeting Milei and his advisers.

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### Legal Scrutiny Intensifies

Legal repercussions surrounding the LIBRA scandal have intensified in recent months. In October, an Argentine prosecutor ordered forensic examinations of the phones belonging to President Milei and his close aides as part of an ongoing inquiry into their possible roles in the cryptocurrency project.

Additionally, U.S. legal sources suggest that Milei, along with his brother Karina Milei and promoter Hayden Mark Davis, likely control assets linked to LIBRA. This development has increased pressure on the president’s inner circle, with calls mounting for the detention of two aides implicated in the launch of the token.

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### Struggling to Maintain Credibility

While the 2025 midterm election results increased Milei’s political power, the LIBRA scandal poses a serious threat to his credibility. Accusations of insider trading and market manipulation continue to dominate media coverage, contributing to waning public trust.

Milei faces a delicate balancing act: managing the fallout from the LIBRA scandal while delivering on the reforms that secured his electoral success. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to pushing forward with his policy agenda.

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### Looking Ahead

The coming months will be critical for Milei’s administration as it grapples with legal investigations and public skepticism. Restoring trust may prove essential not only for maintaining political momentum but also in shaping the trajectory of his government ahead of Argentina’s 2027 presidential election.

**Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.**
https://coincentral.com/argentinas-milei-strengthens-political-power-amid-libra-scandal/

Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere cast & characters – Meet the stars behind the show and the roles they play

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**Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere**
*Directed by Scott Cooper*
*In theaters October 24, 2025*

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**Overview**
Scott Cooper’s *Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere* is set to open theatrically in the United States on October 24, 2025, through 20th Century Studios. The film is based on Warren Zanes’ 2023 book and chronicles the creation of Bruce Springsteen’s landmark 1982 album *Nebraska*. This project was both a triumphant and deeply challenging period for Springsteen, capturing the emotion and artistry behind the album’s unique sound.

The biographical adaptation features Jeremy Allen White in the role of Bruce Springsteen, supported by a talented ensemble cast including Jeremy Strong, Odessa Young, Stephen Graham, Gaby Hoffmann, Paul Walter Hauser, Marc Maron, and David Krumholtz. The film also includes Johnny Cannizzaro, Harrison Gilbertson, Grace Gummer, and Chris Jaymes in important supporting roles.

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### Main Cast and Characters

**1) Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen**
Jeremy Allen White portrays Bruce Springsteen during the early 1980s, a time when the singer-songwriter worked from his New Jersey home using a simple four-track recorder to produce the *Nebraska* album. The narrative explores the songwriting sessions, Springsteen’s rising recognition, intense personal reflection, and struggles.

White is widely recognized for his roles as Lip Gallagher in *Shameless* (2011–2021) and Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto in *The Bear* (2022–present). His film credits include *The Rental* (2020), *After Everything* (2018), and *Fingernails* (2023).

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**2) Jeremy Strong as Jon Landau**
Jeremy Strong plays Jon Landau, Springsteen’s producer and longtime manager. The film portrays Landau’s early collaboration with Springsteen during the production of *Nebraska*, a partnership that would continue throughout Springsteen’s career.

Strong gained prominence for his Emmy-winning role as Kendall Roy in *Succession*. His filmography also includes *The Big Short*, *Molly’s Game*, and *The Trial of the Chicago 7*.

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**3) Johnny Cannizzaro as Steven Van Zandt**
Johnny Cannizzaro portrays Steven Van Zandt, a close friend and guitarist with Bruce Springsteen. Van Zandt was integral to Springsteen’s music and tours. Cannizzaro appeared in *Jersey Boys* (2014) and has experience in both theater and independent film projects.

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**4) Paul Walter Hauser as Mike Batlan**
Paul Walter Hauser takes on the role of Mike Batlan, a key supporter who managed Springsteen’s gear and recordings, playing a pivotal role in bringing together the *Nebraska* album’s setup. Hauser’s notable works include his lead role in *Richard Jewell* (2019), along with appearances in *I, Tonya* (2017), *Black Bird* (2022), and *Cruella* (2021).

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**5) Odessa Young as Faye Romano**
Odessa Young portrays Faye Romano, a significant figure in Springsteen’s personal story and a romantic interest who influences his journey. Young is an Australian actress known for roles in *The Daughter* (2015), *Assassination Nation* (2018), and *Shirley* (2020). She also starred in the CBS miniseries adaptation of *The Stand* (2020–2021).

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**6) Stephen Graham as Douglas Springsteen**
Stephen Graham plays Douglas Springsteen, Bruce’s father. The film depicts Douglas as an alcoholic with a strained, distant relationship with Bruce—an emotional dynamic that influenced Springsteen’s music and public reflections.

Graham is acclaimed for his roles in *Boardwalk Empire* (2010–2014) and *Peaky Blinders* (2017–2019). His film credits include *The Irishman* (2019), *Boiling Point* (2021), and *Venom: Let There Be Carnage* (2021).

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**7) David Krumholtz as Al Teller**
David Krumholtz plays Al Teller, a record executive responsible for managing the release of *Nebraska* through Columbia Records. Teller had a longstanding career in the music industry, holding executive roles at several labels.

Krumholtz is known for his role in *Numb3rs* (2005–2010), *The Santa Clause* series, and more recent appearances in *The Ballad of Buster Scruggs* (2018) and *Oppenheimer* (2023).

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### Supporting Cast

– **Gaby Hoffmann as Adele Springsteen**
Bruce Springsteen’s mother, who nurtured and supported his musical ambitions from a young age.

– **Marc Maron as Chuck Plotkin**
Producer who assisted with mixing and mastering the *Nebraska* album for its commercial release.

– **Harrison Gilbertson as Matt Delia**
A close friend of Springsteen.

– **Grace Gummer as Barbara Landau**
Wife of Jon Landau.

– **Chris Jaymes as Dennis King**
The mastering engineer for the *Nebraska* album.

– **Brian Chase as Max Weinberg**
The drummer of the E Street Band.

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**Release Date**
*Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere* is scheduled to hit theaters on October 24, 2025.

—

*Also Read:*
Is Bruce Springsteen planning a ‘Deliver Me from Nowhere’ sequel? Director Scott Cooper shares the details.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/movies/springsteen-deliver-me-nowhere-cast-characters-meet-stars-behind-show-roles-play

Qualtrics CEO Zig Serafin steps down after nine years building experience platform ready for AI’s inflection point

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**Zig Serafin Steps Down as Qualtrics CEO Amid Strategic Shift Toward Agentic AI**

Zig Serafin is stepping down as CEO of Qualtrics after nine years with the company—a surprise move that comes as the experience management (XM) vendor positions itself to help buyers guide and better understand their agentic AI deployments.

Serafin announced this week that he’s transitioning to Vice Chairman and Special Advisor. Meanwhile, board members Jim Whitehurst (former Red Hat CEO) and Mark Gillett (from Silver Lake) will step in as interim co-CEOs while the company searches for a permanent replacement.

In a note to employees, Serafin acknowledged that “there’s never a perfect time to step back from something you love,” but emphasized that “now is the right time to begin a thoughtful search for our next CEO.” He added:

> “Today, Qualtrics is the AI Experience Management partner to the world’s most iconic organizations, shaping the most critical experiences in business and in people’s lives. That’s a legacy and a future we should all be incredibly proud of.”

### Timing and Company Trajectory

The timing of Serafin’s departure is especially interesting, as Qualtrics has maintained a clear strategy in recent years and is heading toward $2 billion in revenue.

The vendor is also preparing to integrate Press Ganey Forsta, the $6.75 billion healthcare experience management acquisition announced earlier this year. (You can read my recent interview with Serafin on that announcement [here].)

More significantly, the company has been making substantial bets on agentic AI—positioning itself not as a competitor to operational agents from the likes of Salesforce, ServiceNow, or SAP, but as something different: the “experience layer” that measures and ensures quality across AI-driven interactions.

### Building the Foundation

When Serafin joined Qualtrics in 2016 as COO, he came from an 18-year career at Microsoft where he led products like Skype for Business. At that time, Qualtrics was already a significant player in survey and experience management software.

His tenure, which saw him become CEO in 2020, has been marked by significant transitions, including:

– An $8 billion acquisition by SAP
– An IPO in 2021
– Returning to private ownership in 2023 at a $12.5 billion valuation led by Silver Lake

Throughout these ownership changes, Serafin appeared to be building toward a specific vision.

In conversations with diginomica earlier this year, Qualtrics executives outlined a strategy that feels quite different from the agentic AI approaches pursued by most enterprise software vendors.

Rather than building standalone AI agents or rushing to acquire AI startups, the company has been embedding agentic capabilities into its core products—the ones customers already use heavily.

Brad Anderson, President of Products at Qualtrics, explained the approach during our conversation at the company’s X4 Summit in April:

> “A survey, a good old fashioned survey—the next button is clicked 50,000 times every 60 seconds for Qualtrics surveys, and it peaks at 300,000 times every 60 seconds. By agentifying that, every one of those can be an opportunity to close the loop for the customer.”

This pragmatic, build-not-buy strategy came after Qualtrics evaluated more than 100 potential acquisition targets, according to Anderson. The conclusion was that buying technology in such a rapidly evolving market wouldn’t provide meaningful advantages—particularly when no vendor has yet achieved scale with agentic deployments.

### The Experience Data Advantage

What Serafin leaves behind is a company with a unique asset: a vast repository of human sentiment data collected through billions of customer and employee interactions and an expanding platform.

This isn’t operational data about transactions or processes—it’s data about how people feel about those experiences.

When I spoke with Gurdeep Pall, Qualtrics’ AI President, earlier this year, he suggested that this experience data could eventually enable applications beyond traditional experience management.

The company’s thesis is that in a world where multiple AI agents will handle operational tasks, someone needs to ensure these agents deliver the kind of experiences that build trust and loyalty—rather than eroding them.

Given that trust in agentic AI will be critical to its success, this is a compelling argument.

Anderson articulated this positioning clearly:

> “One of the unique values that we bring, independent of what agent is being used, is the ability to be able to tell an organization: Is your digital agent giving the same experience that your best humans do? That’s the difference between an operational agent and an experience agent.”

### Healthcare as a Proving Ground

The Press Ganey Forsta acquisition takes on added significance in this context. Healthcare is arguably the most critical of all human experiences—moments when people are at their most vulnerable and where the quality of interaction can have long-lasting consequences.

When Serafin announced the deal, he told me healthcare was becoming “the proving ground for the enterprise.”

The sector’s combination of complex regulations, life-or-death stakes, and massive inefficiencies makes it an ideal testbed for whether AI can truly improve human experiences at scale.

With Press Ganey, Qualtrics gains not just a larger healthcare presence but deeper domain expertise in a sector ripe for AI-driven transformation.

If the company can demonstrate that its experience platform can improve healthcare interactions while maintaining quality and trust, the argument for deploying similar approaches across other industries becomes considerably stronger.

### My Take

What’s clear from Serafin’s tenure is that Qualtrics understands where it adds value.

Rather than attempting to be everything to everyone, it’s carved out a specific role: the layer that ensures AI systems deliver the kinds of human experiences organizations actually want.

The agentic AI market is still nascent, and many competing visions exist for how enterprise AI architectures will evolve.

Qualtrics is betting that as organizations deploy multiple operational agents, they’ll need a way to ensure these agents don’t degrade customer and employee experiences—and that experience data will be the key to making that assessment.

In his announcement, Serafin emphasized that the company is “at a key acceleration and inflection point.”

He’s built the platform and established the strategic direction. Now it falls to his successors to execute against that vision in an increasingly crowded and competitive market.

Let’s see who and what comes next!

In the meantime, I’m pleased Serafin is sticking around as an advisor and look forward to seeing what the next few months bring.
https://diginomica.com/qualtrics-ceo-zig-serafin-steps-down-after-nine-years-building-experience-platform-ready-ais

Where do you stand on the ‘non-pro’ MacBook Pro debate? [Poll]

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The Debate Over the “Non-Pro” MacBook Pro: Is It Worth It?

There’s been an ongoing debate recently about what some refer to as “the non-pro MacBook Pro,” or what John Gruber calls “the no-adjective M-series chip.” The crux of the discussion is whether it makes sense to buy the base model MacBook Pro instead of the significantly cheaper but similarly-specced MacBook Air.

John Gruber clearly came down on the side of “no.” He argues that the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the no-adjective M-series chip has always been an oddity in the MacBook lineup.

A History of the “Pro”-But-Not-Pro MacBook

This “Pro”-but-not-pro positioning dates back to the Intel era, when Apple offered a 13-inch MacBook Pro without a Touch Bar. That model was even recommended in 2016 by Phil Schiller for users who were waiting for a MacBook Air with a Retina display—the first Retina MacBook Air didn’t arrive until late 2018.

In many ways, this base model feels more like a MacBook “Pro” rather than a true MacBook Pro. The genuinely pro-spec’d MacBook Pros now come equipped with M-series Pro and Max chips and are available in both 14- and 16-inch sizes.

According to Gruber, the base 14-inch MacBook Pro with the no-adjective M-series chip is aimed at people who probably would be better off with a MacBook Air but mistakenly believe they “need” a laptop with “Pro” in its name.

Another Perspective: Why Some Users Choose the Base MacBook Pro

Fintech investor Brian Stuckey disagrees with Gruber’s assessment. He writes:

“I’m a cognizant MacBook Pro no-adjective user because the CPU/GPU is more than enough for me. I buy over Air for: XDR display, battery life, much better speakers, SD/HDMI ports.”

Stuckey highlights that the base model MacBook Pro offers these advantages without the added cost of the more powerful chips, which he doesn’t need.

Breaking down some of these benefits:

  • XDR Display: Significantly higher maximum brightness, HDR support, and ProMotion technology.
  • Speakers and Microphones: Much better speakers coupled with significantly improved microphones.
  • Battery Life and Charging: Longer battery life accompanied by faster charging capabilities.
  • Ports: Inclusion of SD card and HDMI ports, which the MacBook Air lacks.
  • SSD Storage Options: While both the 13-inch MacBook Air and 14-inch MacBook Pro offer RAM options of 16GB, 24GB, or 32GB, the Air maxes out at a 2TB SSD, whereas the MacBook Pro can be configured with up to a 4TB SSD.
  • Display Option: The nano-texture matte display is available only on the MacBook Pro.

Gruber’s Response and Final Thoughts

Gruber responded by pointing out that he used the word “probably” in his original post and maintains his view that, for most buyers, the base MacBook Pro is the wrong choice.

What’s Your Take?

Are these benefits enough to justify the higher cost and heavier weight of the base MacBook Pro compared to the MacBook Air, even if you don’t need a more powerful chip?

Please take our poll and share your thoughts in the comments below.

Highlighted Accessories

Image credit: Apple

https://9to5mac.com/2025/10/20/where-do-you-stand-on-the-non-pro-macbook-pro-debate-poll/

Apple reportedly cuts iPhone Air production while other models thrive

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**Apple Slashes Production of Ultra-Thin iPhone Air Amid Weak Demand**

Apple has reportedly decided to cut production of the ultra-thin iPhone Air due to weaker-than-expected demand. The company had high hopes for this model, believing it would finally win the affection of users after previous attempts with the mini iPhone and a lower-priced non-Pro version of the Pro Max had fallen short.

### The iPhone Air: Sleek and Impressive

You don’t need to be an iPhone fanatic to appreciate the design of the iPhone Air. At just 5.6 mm thick, it is the thinnest iPhone ever made—almost 19% thinner than the iPhone 6, which measured 6.9 mm and previously held the title since its 2014 release.

Despite its slim profile, Apple managed to pack enough power into the iPhone Air to provide all-day battery life. The device houses a 3,149 mAh battery in eSIM-only models and a 3,036 mAh battery in versions with a physical eSIM, showcasing impressive engineering to balance form and function.

### Camera and Pricing

The iPhone Air features Apple’s 48MP Fusion camera on the rear. However, unlike the Pro models, it lacks separate Ultra Wide and Telephoto lenses. The device supports up to 2x optical zoom but does not offer ultra wide-angle photography.

Starting at $999, Apple also offers customers the option to finance the phone over 24 months at $41.62 per month.

### Production Cuts and Market Reception

According to a report by South Korea’s The Elec and analysis from a Mizuho Securities analyst, Apple is reportedly cutting iPhone Air production by approximately one million units due to lower-than-anticipated demand. Meanwhile, production of other models is increasing, with the iPhone 17 seeing a hike of two million units, and the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max boosted by one million and four million units respectively.

Analysts suggest consumers are gravitating toward the more familiar iPhone 17 series models rather than experimenting with the iPhone Air. This consumer preference is reflected in a recent survey asking whether users would purchase the iPhone Air:

– 12.5% responded: *Yes, it’s just so cool looking.*
– 50% replied: *No, I don’t want to give up on “Pro” features.*
– 37.5% said: *I’m not buying an iPhone model.*

### Why the iPhone Air Might Be Struggling

Ironically, one reason behind the iPhone Air’s lagging sales could be the improvements introduced in the base iPhone 17 model. This year, Apple outfitted the entry-level iPhone 17 with a ProMotion display, featuring a variable refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz. Additionally, its video playback battery life increased significantly to 30 hours, up from 22 hours in the previous iPhone 16.

### Current Availability and Delivery Times

Despite the positive reception of other models, the iPhone 17 remains in high demand with order wait times of two to three weeks in countries including the U.S., U.K., France, China, Japan, and Switzerland.

### The iPhone Fold: A Future Vision?

While the iPhone Air may not be meeting sales expectations, it may still serve an important purpose for Apple—as a proof of concept. Bloomberg has described the upcoming foldable iPhone as essentially two iPhone Air units placed side-by-side.

Initially, reports suggested that the foldable iPhone, dubbed the iPhone Fold, would launch next year. However, new information points to a possible delay until 2027, as Apple reportedly has yet to finalize key design components such as the hinge mechanism.

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### Review and Final Thoughts

In our recent review, the iPhone Air scored 7.4 out of 10 points. We praised its fast, bright, and vivid display and unique, ultra-thin design. However, the review also noted shortcomings, such as weak and flat mono speakers, subpar rear camera performance, and the device’s tendency to run hot under load.

The iPhone Air is available in four colors: Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, and Sky Blue.

—

### Stay Updated with the Latest Apple News

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive timely updates and insights on all things Apple. By subscribing, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.

—

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[Learn More and Sign Up for Early Bird Discounts Here]

– **Save on Verizon’s Fastest 5G**
Buy 3 months of Visible+ Pro and get 3 months free, saving up to $135.
[Check Out The Offer]

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*We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through the links above.*

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**Follow us on [Google News] for more great tech stories.**

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*FCC Approves Cingular’s Purchase of AT&T Wireless*
https://www.phonearena.com/news/apple-reportedly-cuts-iphone-air-production_id174980

OpenSea Sees Token Trading Pivot With $SEA Token Planned for 2026, Expanding Beyond NFT Marketplaces

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OpenSea Now Sees Token Trading Dominating Volume: Over 90% of Activity Comes from Tokens, Not NFTs

OpenSea is pivoting from a pure NFT marketplace to a multi-asset, on-chain trading hub, as recent data reveals that more than 90% of its trading volume now comes from tokens rather than traditional NFTs. This strategic shift comes amid a fading momentum in the NFT market, with OpenSea aiming to expand its scope beyond collectibles into a broader financial ecosystem.

What Is OpenSea’s Pivot to Token Trading?

OpenSea is evolving from a singular focus on NFTs to becoming a cross-asset, on-chain trading platform. Central to this pivot is the launch of the EA token scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The new token will power a variety of features including staking, governance, and access to a mobile application currently in closed alpha testing.

This transformation enables OpenSea to offer trading across diverse asset classes such as tokens and perpetual contracts, in addition to NFTs. The company aims to capture a larger share of on-chain finance by supporting broader liquidity solutions.

How Does the EA Token Work within OpenSea’s Ecosystem?

The EA token is designed to be an integral element of OpenSea’s expanded ecosystem. At launch, 50% of the token allocation will be dedicated to the community, supporting decentralized participation. Additionally, the remaining half of OpenSea’s revenue will be allocated to token buybacks, which can help maintain token value and enhance liquidity.

Token holders will have the ability to stake their tokens and participate in governance decisions that shape the platform’s future. The upcoming mobile app—now in closed alpha—will further foster user engagement and cross-chain liquidity ambitions, enabling trading access to a wide range of crypto and tokenized assets.

Context: NFT Market Momentum Is Fading

The NFT market experienced explosive growth during 2021 and 2022 but has since faced a slow recovery. While there have been occasional bursts of activity, overall NFT volumes on major blockchains remain muted compared to their peak levels.

Meanwhile, token trading has steadily increased as a proportion of OpenSea’s platform activity. Even leading projects that once defined the NFT boom have seen their volumes and valuations decline significantly. This challenging environment has influenced OpenSea’s leadership to reposition the platform beyond cultural collectibles into a more comprehensive, finance-oriented trading hub.

Strategic Rationale Behind the Pivot

OpenSea’s pivot is not merely an expansion of its product line but a survival and strategic positioning move. Executives describe it as an evolution in line with broader industry trends toward tokenized ecosystems and decentralized finance (DeFi) utilities embedded within consumer platforms.

This approach aligns OpenSea with a growing movement in Web3, focused on governance, staking, and integrated financial models that extend beyond NFTs into fungible tokens and other on-chain assets. The company aims to become a hub where digital ownership and on-chain financial primitives coexist, driving sustained engagement through enhanced liquidity and cross-asset participation.

EA Token: A Fresh Start for a Fading Era

To support this next phase, OpenSea will launch the EA token in Q1 2026. Half of the token supply is allocated directly to the community, fostering decentralized growth and participation. OpenSea will dedicate 50% of its revenue to buying back the token, reinforcing its market value and demand.

The token will serve multiple purposes, including staking and governance, giving users influence over the platform’s direction. The launch also coincides with the rollout of a closed-alpha mobile app designed to facilitate cross-chain trading and liquidity.

OpenSea describes this move as building “a broader, on-chain liquidity layer,” enabling users to seamlessly stake, govern, and trade across tokens and other digital assets from within a unified platform.

Is the NFT Boom Truly Over?

OpenSea’s rebrand signals both an evolution and a retreat from the purely culture-driven NFT marketplace model. With the largest marketplace pivoting toward fungible tokens and integrated financial products, it suggests a wider industry shift from isolated NFT booms toward a more holistic, multi-asset crypto environment.

As the market consolidates, industry watchers will closely observe the EA token’s rollout and OpenSea’s broader product developments to gauge the platform’s success in navigating these changes.

Key Takeaways

  • Why is OpenSea pivoting away from NFTs? The shift responds to changing market dynamics and rising token trading volumes, aiming to become a multi-asset, on-chain trading hub.
  • What is the EA token launch about? Scheduled for Q1 2026, with 50% community allocation and half of OpenSea’s revenue allocated to buybacks; it will support staking, governance, and unlock access to a new mobile app.
  • Strategic context: The pivot reflects fading NFT momentum and greater emphasis on cross-asset liquidity and on-chain finance within crypto ecosystems.

Conclusion

OpenSea’s transformation from a single-purpose NFT marketplace into a multi-asset, on-chain trading hub marks a deliberate strategic shift shaped by evolving market trends and long-term crypto ecosystem growth. With the EA token launch, OpenSea is positioning itself to blend cultural leadership with enhanced financial utility, opening new pathways for user engagement and platform sustainability.

COINOTAG will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on how this transition affects users, liquidity, and the broader market landscape.

Author: COINOTAG

Published: October 17, 2025 | Updated: October 18, 2025

https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/nft/opensea-sees-token-trading-pivot-with-sea-token-planned-for-2026-expanding-beyond-nft-marketplaces/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=opensea-sees-token-trading-pivot-with-sea-token-planned-for-2026-expanding-beyond-nft-marketplaces

BlackRock Unveils Treasury Liquidity Fund to Manage Stablecoin Reserves

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**BlackRock Launches Revamped Fund to Manage Stablecoin Reserves**

BlackRock, one of the world’s largest asset managers with $13.5 trillion in assets, is expanding its footprint in the stablecoin market by launching a restructured money market fund designed specifically to manage reserves for US dollar-pegged stablecoins. This move aligns with the new regulatory landscape and positions BlackRock as a key player in the rapidly growing stablecoin sector, which is projected to reach $4 trillion by 2030.

### Strategic Push into Stablecoin Reserve Management

In response to increasing demand for secure and liquid reserve options, BlackRock has revamped one of its key money market funds, now renamed the **BlackRock Select Treasury Based Liquidity Fund (BSTBL)**. The fund’s primary objective is to provide a safe, liquid vehicle for stablecoin issuers to manage their reserves. It invests exclusively in short-term US Treasury securities and overnight repurchase agreements, ensuring both safety and high liquidity.

Jon Steel, the global head of BlackRock’s cash management business, emphasized the company’s commitment:
*“We want to be and we believe we are a preeminent reserve manager.”*

This statement highlights BlackRock’s goal to capture a larger share of the stablecoin market as demand for secure reserve solutions grows alongside stablecoin adoption.

### Compliance with the GENIUS Act

The redesigned BSTBL fund is tailored to comply with the new regulatory framework introduced under the GENIUS Act, signed into law earlier this year. The GENIUS Act sets forth guidelines requiring stablecoin issuers to maintain their reserves in safe, highly liquid forms.

By focusing its investments solely on short-term US Treasury securities and repurchase agreements, BlackRock’s fund meets these stringent requirements, providing stablecoin issuers with a compliant and reliable reserve management solution. This regulatory alignment enhances BlackRock’s appeal to issuers looking to meet both immediate and long-term reserve management needs.

### Longer Trading Hours and Institutional Focus

To better serve institutional investors—including stablecoin issuers—the BSTBL fund has extended its trading hours until 5:00 pm Eastern Time. This adjustment provides greater flexibility for investors operating across multiple time zones. Moreover, the fund’s valuation times have been pushed back to support global trading schedules, enabling more efficient and transparent fund management.

BlackRock’s focus on institutional investors is clear, as the stablecoin market is primarily driven by large financial entities. Offering a yield-bearing reserve option with extended trading hours positions the BSTBL fund as an attractive tool for issuers aiming to comply with the GENIUS Act and optimize their reserve strategies.

### Expanding BlackRock’s Digital Asset Strategy

This move into stablecoin reserve management complements BlackRock’s broader digital asset strategy. The firm is already active in the cryptocurrency space with products such as its Bitcoin ETF, Ether product, and a tokenized liquidity fund launched earlier this year.

The revamped BSTBL fund reinforces BlackRock’s commitment to the digital assets sector and its ambition to be a leading reserve manager for US dollar-pegged stablecoins. BlackRock has already established partnerships with issuers like Circle, the company behind USDC, further solidifying its reputation as a trusted reserve manager.

### Outlook

With stablecoin adoption on the rise and the market expected to expand exponentially, BlackRock’s strategic initiative to redesign its money market fund and align with new regulatory standards positions it to benefit from growing demand for secure, compliant reserve management solutions.

By proactively catering to the needs of stablecoin issuers, BlackRock is set to become an integral player in this dynamic and fast-evolving financial sector.
https://coincentral.com/blackrock-unveils-treasury-liquidity-fund-to-manage-stablecoin-reserves/

Add these seeds to your daily diet

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By Anujj Trehaan | Oct 06, 2025 | 01:35 PM

**What’s the story?**

Seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition, making them an essential part of a healthy diet. They are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Adding seeds to your daily meals can be an easy way to boost your nutrient intake without making drastic changes to your diet.

Here are five must-try seeds that can significantly enhance your daily nutrition.

### 1. Chia Seeds: The Fiber Powerhouse

Chia seeds are famous for their high fiber content, which helps with digestion and keeps blood sugar levels stable. These tiny black seeds are also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds give you 10 grams of fiber—more than one-third of the daily recommended intake for adults.

### 2. Flaxseeds: Rich in Omega-3s

Flaxseeds are an amazing source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain and heart health. They also provide lignans, which have antioxidant properties. To reap the maximum benefits, flaxseeds should be ground before consumption, as whole flaxseeds may pass through the digestive system undigested. Two tablespoons of ground flaxseeds provide about four grams of protein and eight grams of fiber.

### 3. Pumpkin Seeds: Nutrient-Dense Snack

Pumpkin seeds make for an excellent snack option as they are loaded with magnesium, zinc, and iron. These nutrients are essential for bone health, immune function, and energy production. Pumpkin seeds are also a good source of antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body. A quarter-cup serving gives you around 14 grams of protein and more than 40% of the daily recommended magnesium intake.

### 4. Sunflower Seeds: Vitamin E Boost

Sunflower seeds are packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage by free radicals. They also provide healthy fats that promote cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a balanced diet. A quarter-cup serving offers about six grams of protein along with significant amounts of copper and selenium.

### 5. Sesame Seeds: Calcium Source

Sesame seeds are an excellent source of calcium, making them perfect for those who want to increase their intake without dairy products. These tiny white or black seeds also contain sesamin, which may help lower cholesterol levels naturally over time when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet plan. One tablespoon provides approximately 88 milligrams (about 9% of the RDI) of calcium, along with other essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.

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Incorporating these seeds into your daily meals—whether by sprinkling them on salads, blending into smoothies, or enjoying them as snacks—can be a simple and effective way to enrich your diet with vital nutrients.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/must-try-seeds-for-daily-nutrition/story