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- ETH ETFs approved, NFT version of Swiss bank accounts, Snoop Dogg carrying Olympic torch, Gisele Bündchen’s $11M Miami home, and Angel City FC gets new investors.
ETH ETFs approved, NFT version of Swiss bank accounts, Snoop Dogg carrying Olympic torch, Gisele Bündchen’s $11M Miami home, and Angel City FC gets new investors.
Chris Thompson
July 24, 2024
Welcome back to irl Media NEWS. The only newsletter bringing you the business behind the news, with a healthy dose of sarcasm.
In today’s edition we discuss the SEC’s approval of ETH ETFs, Swiss fintech company Fiat24 introduces their NFT version of a Swiss bank account, Snoop Dogg is carrying the Olympic torch in Paris, Gisele Bündchen finishes renovating her $11M Miami home, and Angel City FC gets new investors.
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FROM THE EDITOR
This week I’ve been reflecting on the fact that we are now half way through the Summer of 2024, which for those of us in the Northeast it means we’re only a little over a month away from our kids going back to school so this content creator can write and record in peace while the kids are at school.
Summer’s not only a time of relaxation for me, but also of creativity. I usually pick a new side-project or startup to work on during the Summer, and this year is no different.
In the last 10 months we’ve launched the irl Media NEWS weekly newsletter in September 2023, then our YouTube channel in November 2023, followed by our website in June 2024, and our Podcast earlier this month in July 2024.
This Summer I’ve been working on a new YouTube channel I’m really excited about. I don’t want to share too much with you right now, but I’ve been busy researching locations to visit, buying to new tech gear for recording interviews, and since I own a Branding agency you know I’ve been working on the branding and style of this new YouTube channel.
It’s still early days, but my goal is to record the 1st episode by the end of August, with editing to follow in September, and a target goal of launching the new YouTube channel in October. As will all projects, I’m guessing my dates will slip a little, but I think you’ll agree it’ll be all worth it when we launch this new channel with some exciting new formats featuring Shorts, long form videos, POV shots, interviews, ASMR audio, and tutorials.
Excited to learn what our new channel will be about? Stick around, because I’m excited to share what we’re cooking up for you next.
YOUTUBE
Gwyneth Paltrow Is Selling Her LA Home For $29.99 Million
BUSINESS
SEC Approves ETH ETFs
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) just approved the launch of spot Ethereum exchange-traded funds (ETFs), marking a significant milestone in the cryptocurrency market. This decision allows investors to gain exposure to Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, through a regulated financial product. If you’ll recall Bitcoin ETFs were approved earlier this year on January 10, 2024.
What are Spot Ethereum ETFs? I thought you’d never ask!
Spot Ethereum ETFs are investment funds that track the price of Ethereum directly, allowing investors to buy shares that reflect the current market value of the cryptocurrency. Unlike futures-based ETFs, which are based on derivatives contracts and can involve additional risks, spot ETFs are backed by actual Ethereum holdings. This SEC approval is seen as a pivotal moment for crypto investors who prefer a more straightforward way to invest in digital assets without dealing directly with the complexities of buying and storing cryptocurrency.
The SEC’s approval of these spot Ethereum ETFs comes after considerable anticipation and regulatory scrutiny. The decision aligns with the growing interest in digital assets and the increasing demand for investment products that offer direct exposure to cryptocurrencies. This move follows similar approvals for Bitcoin ETFs, which have been well-received by the market.
The SEC approval process involved extensive review and compliance checks to ensure that the ETFs meet regulatory standards. The ETFs are set to begin trading as early as July 23, 2024, providing investors with a new opportunity to participate in the Ethereum market through a regulated investment vehicle.
The approval of spot Ethereum ETFs could have several implications for the cryptocurrency market and investors. Firstly, it provides a more accessible and regulated investment option for those interested in Ethereum. This could lead to increased institutional participation and broader market adoption of Ethereum as an asset class.
Secondarily, the move could potentially drive further innovations in the crypto investment space, as other cryptocurrencies might see similar products being developed. The introduction of these ETFs also signifies a positive shift in the regulatory environment, suggesting a growing acceptance of cryptocurrency-based financial products.
The SEC’s approval of spot Ethereum ETFs marks a significant development in the cryptocurrency investment landscape. By allowing investors to gain exposure to Ethereum through a regulated financial product, the approval enhances the accessibility and credibility of crypto investments. As these ETFs begin trading, they are expected to attract both institutional and retail investors, potentially shaping the future of digital asset investments.
CRYPTO
The NFT Version Of A Swiss Bank Account
Imagine the secrecy and privacy of having a Swiss bank account, but tailored for the digital age. That’s the promise of NFTs in the world of Web3. Now a Swiss fintech pioneering company named Fiat24 is at the forefront of this transformation, reimagining banking by leveraging blockchain technology to create a system where your financial identity and assets are more secure and private than ever before.
Instead of the old-fashioned vaults and secretive banking practices, Fiat24 uses ERC-721 NFTs to encapsulate clients' on-chain identities, and ERC-20 tokens to represent deposits. This approach doesn't just add a layer of security; it reshapes how we think about personal finance. It's like having your own impenetrable vault, but one that’s accessible from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
As we continue to innovate and adapt in the ever-changing landscape of finance-meets-crytpo, the adoption of NFTs in banking illustrates a profound shift. The future, it seems, isn’t just about digital currencies but about digital identities and the unparalleled security that blockchain technology can provide.
Privacy, control, and security are no longer just buzzwords in the world of crypto - they're becoming a digital reality.
ENTERTAINMENT
Snoop Dogg Is An Olympic Champion In The Making, Minus The Athleticism
Snoop Dogg, the legendary rapper, and entrepreneur, known for his laid-back vibe and love for all things chill, is about to spice up the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics in ways no one could have imagined.
Snoop Dogg has decided to take a break from his busy schedule of making hit records and coaching youth football to dip his toes into the world of Track & Field.
Yes, you read that right!
Snoop Dogg participated in the 200m sprint trials for the Olympics. Rumor has it he’s been training hard, possibly powered by his favorite munchies, because, let’s be honest, nothing fuels a sprint like a good snack attack.
Let me paint you a picture. Imagine Snoop Dogg, in his iconic braids and perhaps even some blinged-out sneakers, lining up alongside world-class athletes at the starting line. All the other athletes crouch down into their starting positions, and Snoop Dogg lights a blunt. End scene.
Back to reality.
Snoop Dogg was only at the Track & Field trials in Eugene, Oregon as a promotion for NBC’s coverage of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, but can you just imagine if he had really actually trained for the event for years and then tried out?
In reality, Snoop Dogg is carrying the Olympic torch during its final stages as it winds its way through France to arrive at the Olympic cauldron in Paris.
Let me paint you another picture. I’m imagining Snoop Dogg, with his effortlessly cool demeanor, gliding through the streets of Paris, torch in one hand, microphone in the other, possibly dropping some impromptu freestyle about peace, unity, and good vibes. Paris won’t know what hit it!
The city of lights is about to get a whole lot of swagger. Imagine the Eiffel Tower basking in the glow of the Olympic flame, with Snoop Dogg providing the soundtrack. If there’s ever been a time to see the merging of sports, music, and sheer entertainment, it’s now.
So, while most athletes are busy trying to break records, Snoop Dogg will be proving that the Olympics aren’t just about sports - they're about style, swagger, and a whole lot of fun. Mark your calendars because the Paris Summer Olympics are going to be lit.
REAL ESTATE
Gisele Bündchen Just Finished Renovating Her $11M Miami Home
Gisele Bündchen’s newly renovated $11 million dollar Miami, Florida home is everything you’d expect from one of the world’s best known supermodels. It’s the epitome of luxury and elegance. This stunning coastal retreat, located in the exclusive Indian Creek Island which is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Miami, has just been completed after more than a year of meticulous renovations. The Brazilian supermodel’s new crib is also strategically situated near her ex-husband, Tom Brady’s house, which should help with co-parenting their two children they have together.
Gisele Bündchen is more than just a supermodel; she’s an international icon. Rising to fame in the late 1990s, Gisele quickly became one of the highest-paid models in the world, gracing the covers of major fashion magazines and walking the runways for top designers. Her marriage to NFL legend Tom Brady further catapulted her into the limelight. The couple, who were married for 13 years before announcing their split in 2022, have two children together, Benjamin and Vivian. Despite their separation, Gisele and Tom have remained committed to co-parenting, ensuring that their children continue to feel loved and supported.
Gisele Bündchen’s Miami home is a masterclass in modern luxury. The extensive renovations have transformed the property into a serene oasis, perfect for relaxation and family gatherings. The house boasts 6,600 square feet, and features five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, as well as an impressive array of features designed to provide comfort and style. The open-plan living area is flooded with natural light, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The state-of-the-art kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and elegant finishes.
Each of the house’s bedrooms have been designed with a unique aesthetic that blends sophistication with comfort. The master suite is a sanctuary fit for a celebrity, complete with a spa-like bathroom and a private terrace that overlooks the lush gardens. Outside, the amenities are equally impressive. The expansive backyard features a luxurious swimming pool, a spacious deck for entertaining, and beautifully landscaped gardens that provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.
One of the most notable aspects of Gisele Bündchen’s new home is its proximity to Tom Brady’s residence. This strategic location is ideal for co-parenting, allowing Gisele and Tom to easily share responsibilities and spend quality time with their children. The close distance means Benjamin and Vivian can seamlessly transition between their parents’ homes, maintaining stability and continuity in their daily lives.
Florida has long been a magnet for celebrities, drawn by its beautiful weather, luxurious properties, and vibrant lifestyle. Gisele Bündchen joins a list of high-profile residents, including actress Sydney Sweeney, who also recently acquired a stunning home in the Florida Keys. These celebrity homes are often located in exclusive neighborhoods, offering privacy and security along with top-tier amenities. The appeal of Florida’s coastal cities continues to attract A-listers looking for a blend of relaxation and glamor.
Gisele Bündchen’s newly renovated $11 million Miami home truly is fit for a supermodel.
SPORTS
Angel City FC Brings On New Investors
Angel City FC, the LA-based women's soccer team, is hitting the headlines once again. This time, it's not just for their impressive play on the field but for the massive new investment they’re bringing in. If you thought women’s soccer was just a sideshow to the men’s game, it’s time to think again. Women's soccer teams are rapidly climbing the popularity charts, and their valuations are soaring.
Angel City FC is not your average soccer team. Born in the city of stars in 2020, this team has been glittering from the get-go. It has a lineup of investors that reads like a Hollywood blockbuster cast list. Think Natalie Portman, Serena Williams, and Alexis Ohanian, to name a few. These celebrities aren't just lending their names; they're backing the team with serious financial muscle.
With this fresh injection of capital, Angel City FC is set to ramp up everything from training facilities to marketing campaigns. This is more than just a game; it's a movement.
The buzz around Angel City FC is part of a much larger trend. Women’s soccer is having a moment - a big one. More and more fans are filling the stands and tuning into broadcasts. The fever pitch around the FIFA Women's World Cup is a prime example. The 2019 tournament in France was watched by over 1.12 Billion people globally. Yes, Billion with a capital B!
This surge in viewership isn't just about the love of the game. It’s also driving the business side of things, with revenues and team valuations reaching new heights.
Let's talk numbers. Angel City FC's valuation is skyrocketing, reflecting both the team's growing brand and the wider market trends. This isn't just happening in the U.S. European clubs are riding the wave too. Chelsea FC Women and FC Barcelona Femení have booth seen their valuations climb as they attract serious investment and grow their fan bases.
Several factors are fueling this rise in popularity and valuation, including media coverage by major TV networks and streaming platforms, corporate sponsorships by brands pouring money into sponsorship deals, grassroots development to get more young girls playing soccer, and advocacy and representation championing women’s sports and driving financial and social support.
The latest investment in Angel City FC is more than just a financial boost; it’s a sign of things to come. With the right mix of media coverage, corporate sponsorship, grassroots development, and star-studded advocacy, women's soccer is set to break new ground. Angel City FC isn't just a team; it’s a trailblazer, showing the world the incredible potential of women's sports.
PROMOTION
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So much news, so little time. Until tomorrow we’re signing out.
— Chris Thompson
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