Today in crypto: Trump bets on blockchain for aid

Blockchain for aid transparency

The Trump administration is reportedly considering using blockchain technology to improve the transparency and accountability of U.S. foreign aid programs. A leaked document from the State Department outlines plans to overhaul the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), renaming it the U.S. Agency for International Humanitarian Assistance. The new agency would operate under the Secretary of State's authority.

According to the document, blockchain would play a crucial role in tracking aid distributions, aiming to reduce fraud and ensure that resources reach the intended recipients. The proposal mentions using blockchain for "modernized, performance-based procurement" to radically increase security, transparency, and traceability.

Proponents argue that blockchain’s immutable and decentralized nature makes it a perfect tool for verifying transactions and ensuring that funds are used correctly. However, the ambitious plan may face legal challenges, as any major changes to USAID would require Congressional approval.

The document also suggests that the reforms would make U.S. foreign aid more efficient by focusing on measurable outcomes rather than simply completing tasks. The proposed strategy includes a three-pillar approach labeled "Safer, More Prosperous, and Stronger," led by agencies under the Secretary of State's direction.

Despite these innovative ideas, questions remain about whether blockchain is truly the best solution for foreign aid. Some experts worry that relying on complex technology could hinder rather than help the distribution process, especially in regions with limited digital infrastructure.

Eric Trump joins Metaplanet

In other news, Japanese investment firm Metaplanet Inc. has appointed Eric Trump to its new Strategic Advisory Board. Metaplanet, which holds over 3,000 BTC, aims to expand its Bitcoin strategy and capitalize on the growing adoption of digital assets.

In a statement released Thursday, Metaplanet praised Trump's business acumen and his "passion for Bitcoin." The company believes his experience in real estate and finance will help shape its future strategy as it aims to become one of the world's largest Bitcoin Treasury companies.

Following the announcement, Metaplanet’s share price surged by over 17%, reflecting investor optimism. The company has set a goal to hold 10,000 BTC by 2025 and 21,000 BTC by 2026, a clear sign of its long-term confidence in Bitcoin's future.

Eric Trump has already made waves in the crypto space through his involvement with World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a decentralized finance platform co-founded by the Trump family. The project, despite its controversial connections, has generated significant revenue, largely thanks to its ability to leverage the Trump brand.

Australia sets the crypto rulebook

Moving on to regulation, Australia has unveiled a new framework to regulate digital assets, aiming to provide clearer guidance for both large platforms and smaller-scale operators. The government’s plan requires major crypto businesses to obtain an Australian Financial Services Licence, while exempting smaller companies that don’t directly handle financial transactions.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to align with international standards, similar to the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. The new rules are designed to strike a balance between innovation and consumer protection, addressing concerns about the lack of regulatory clarity that has plagued the crypto industry for years.

Jonathon Miller, managing director of Kraken Australia, welcomed the move, saying, “It’s great to see recognition of the urgent need for bespoke crypto legislation to address the existing confusion and uncertainty facing Australian crypto investors and businesses.”

The new licensing regime also aims to reduce debanking issues, where financial institutions refuse to serve crypto businesses. By addressing these concerns head-on, Australia is positioning itself as a global leader in digital asset regulation.

Pump.Science brings longevity to crypto

On a different note, Pump.Science, a new decentralized science (DeSci) protocol, is merging crypto and scientific research to fund longevity projects. The platform takes inspiration from the popular Solana-based meme coin launchpad, Pump.Fun, but instead of hype and speculation, it focuses on advancing human life extension.

Its first product, Urolithin A, claims to support cellular health by restoring damaged mitochondria. The supplement is marketed as a way to boost energy and counter age-related decline. Co-founder Benjamin Leibowitz described the platform as a bridge between science and decentralized funding, aiming to disrupt traditional research financing.

By leveraging blockchain, Pump.Science aims to provide more transparency in research funding while reducing dependency on traditional grants. The protocol allows users to fund specific projects by purchasing tokens tied to experimental outcomes. If successful, the model could open new doors for scientific innovation while creating financial incentives for backers.

Leibowitz explained that Pump.Science’s funding model is crucial during a period of declining venture capital investments in life sciences. “Venture capital money doesn’t go into extending lifespan; it goes into drugs because they’re the most profitable,” he said. “We’re building infrastructure to help people live longer, but it’s hard to keep the community engaged when the token price is falling.”

The concept of decentralized science is still in its early stages, but Pump.Science is betting that transparency and community-driven funding will give it a competitive edge. As the project gains traction, it may set a precedent for how crypto can support not just finance but scientific progress.

Final thoughts

Today’s stories highlight the growing intersection between blockchain and traditional systems, from government accountability to scientific research. Whether it’s foreign aid transparency, Bitcoin adoption, regulatory clarity, or funding human longevity, blockchain is carving out a role in diverse sectors.

The shift from idealistic disruption to practical integration marks a maturing phase for the technology. The question now is not just how blockchain can replace existing systems, but how it can enhance them in meaningful ways.