Crypto
Telstra cuts 2,800 jobs as AI takes over
Telstra is set to cut 2,800 employees from its workforce. Photo: Shutterstock
Up to 2,800 Telstra workers will be retrenched by year’s end, with Australia’s largest telecommunications carrier announcing plans to pare its workforce in an AI-driven “reset” of its enterprise arm including an overhaul of its Telstra Purple services business.
The package of reforms is designed to contribute to $350 million in cost savings as the company overhauls Telstra Enterprise – the company’s business-focused service arm that includes its Data & Connectivity business and Telstra Purple consulting arm – to “sharpen its focus on areas where it has the strongest differentiation, further improve delivery for customers and improve the cost base of the business,” the company explained in an ASX filing.
The job cuts – which will require consultation with employees and unions and come days after Telstra’s last enterprise bargaining negotiations with the Communications Workers Union (CWU) – are intended to help streamline the company’s enterprise product portfolio through measures including cutting the number of products in its Network Applications and Services (NAS) arm by “close to” two-thirds.
Telstra will also simplify its customer sales and service model “to better support customers”, the company said, and will “reduce the cost base” of its Telstra Purple technology services business – a euphemism for staff cuts in that people-focused business, which last October added over 500 employees with the $267.5 million acquisition of Melbourne based cloud firm Versent.
Telstra Purple is the company’s digital transformation consulting arm, with more than 2,000 certified local experts offering a range of services across network, data and AI, cyber security, Internet of Things (IoT), software development, cloud, and workplace collaboration.
The changes mark a significant step after a review of the Enterprise business that was flagged in February during Telstra’s latest half year results briefing, when CEO Vicki Brady said Telstra was “being challenged by cost pressure” and revealed that the NAS business would undergo a full review because it was “a long way from where we need it to be.”
Many believe that the company’s successful addition of artificial intelligence (AI) has facilitated some of the cutbacks, with AI now being used to improve half of Telstra’s key processes – including automatically detecting and resolving faults with fixed services, and helping “solve customer issues faster”.
Replacing employees with AI is a “cheap, sinister move that will worsen its already disgraceful customer service standards,” Macquarie Telecom group executive Luke Clifton said after the cuts were announced.
“Telstra doesn’t believe in its staff or its customers,” Clifton said. “It has outsourced staff overseas and now, rather than taking the lead on investing in AI to support staff and create better technologies for customers, it’s trying to replace them with artificial intelligence.”
Tough measures for tough times
The CWU’s latest negotiations included demands for “fair and transparent” performance ratings and fixed and guaranteed pay increases – a change from what the union called “Telstra’s discriminatory approach of linking wage outcomes to metrics and outcomes outside of employee control.”
Whether the cuts are a direct response to the negotiations is not clear, but the CWU warned that the cuts will be a “disaster for workers and customers”.
“You can’t axe 2,800 jobs and not expect it to have an impact on service delivery,” national assistant secretary James Perkins said, warning that they “will have a devastating impact on services.”
Telstra is already grappling with after recent complaint figures showed it was struggling to maintain service standards.
The changes are just the beginning of the review of Telstra Enterprise, the company said, with Brady promising that the company “will support” retrenched workers “through this change with care and transparency”.
Consultation on 377 Telstra Enterprise roles will begin “immediately”, the company said, “mainly from areas supporting the products and services to be exited in Enterprise.”
The company – which has previously flagged the need to explore new opportunities – will also move its Global Business Services function into other parts of the business as it works through the detail of changes that are expected to deliver $350 million of the company’s T25 cost reduction strategy by the end of next year.
The restructuring efforts will cost Telstra $200 to $250 million over the next two financial years.
Telstra also announced that it will update the terms for its postpaid mobile plans to remove its CPI-linked annual price review – potentially stabilising prices that are currently set to rise with annual CPI inflation that was recently pegged at 3.6 per cent.
Crypto
US Rep. Bryan Steil to chair House cryptocurrency subcommittee
A Wisconsin congressman will head the House Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence.
Bryan Steil, a Republican representing the 1st Congressional District in southeast Wisconsin, was appointed to the role Thursday.
His subcommittee’s jurisdiction includes things like mobile banking and non-fungible tokens, or NFTs. It’ll also be the first stop for legislation on cryptocurrency.
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Digital currencies have a murky federal regulatory status. That allowed President Joe Biden’s Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler to go after the crypto industry.
The industry responded by spending over $130 million in 2024’s election cycle through its PAC, Fairshake.
It spent $764,206 to independently help re-elect Steil, according to campaign finance database OpenSecrets.
In a statement, Steil said “technologies like financial apps, digital assets, and machine learning revolutionize our economy,” adding that he looks forward to continuing “to provide the rules of the road to move our economy into the future.”
Steil was appointed to his new role by House Financial Services Chair French Hill, R-Arkansas. Hill’s top campaign contributors include the CEOs of the crypto exchange platform Coinbase and the Charles Schwab Corporation.
One of his legislative priorities has been a bill that would set up clearer, crypto-friendly federal financial regulations, which passed the House with bipartisan support in May. He called Steil “instrumental” in passing that bill, and in overturning an SEC rule requiring crypto exchanges to list their digital assets as liabilities on their balance sheets.
Now, the Janesville native will oversee hearings and votes on new crypto-related legislation.
Wisconsin Public Radio, © Copyright 2025, Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board.
Crypto
Which Crypto To Buy Right Now? 10 Best Cryptocurrency Coins For 2025
As Ripple’s XRP ongoing legal troubles continue to keep traders on edge, Polkadot (DOT), Ethereum (ETH), Ethena (ENA), and Cardano (ADA) remain steady. Meanwhile, Injective (INJ), Optimism (OP), Uniswap (UNI), and Tron (TRX) show mixed signals in trading activities. In the middle of all this, whispers of a new market disruptor are growing louder—JetBolt (JBOLT), making headlines with its blazing presale and zero-gas technology. With over 250 million JBOLT tokens already sold, JetBolt’s momentum is undeniable.
With everything from groundbreaking ecosystems to cross-chain powerhouses, the question remains: which crypto to buy right now? Would established crypto coins or rising blockchain superstars dominate 2025? Let’s explore why JetBolt, Polkadot, XRP, Ethereum, Ethena, Optimism, Injective, Uniswap, Cardano, and Tron are the 10 best cryptocurrency coins for 2025.
Which Crypto To Buy Right Now? A Quick List
- JetBolt (JBOLT): Surging new altcoin empowering gas-free transactions, AI intelligence and staking.
- Ethena (ENA): Redefining stablecoins with decentralized innovation.
- Optimism (OP): Scaling Ethereum with lightning-fast rollups.
- Injective (INJ): Unlocking limitless decentralized trading possibilities.
- Uniswap (UNI): Revolutionizing DeFi through seamless token swaps.
A Deep Dive Into the 10 Best Cryptocurrency Coins For 2025
- JetBolt (JBOLT)
JetBolt (JBOLT) is shaking up the crypto world, skyrocketing its way onto traders’ radar as one of the 10 best cryptocurrency coins for 2025 to buy right now. The buzz? Zero gas fees. JetBolt’s game-changing tech, built on the Skale Network, eliminates gas fees entirely, delivering lightning-fast, gas-free transactions that are already turning heads across the crypto space.
This revolutionary feature could also supercharge creativity. Developers can now launch and create dApps, SocialFi platforms, and blockchain gaming ventures without worrying about skyrocketing gas fees holding back innovation.
But that’s not all—JetBolt goes beyond just being another zero-gas token. With an AI-driven crypto tool delivering the latest crypto news and market data straight to its platform, JetBolt is showcasing how blockchain technology and artificial intelligence can go hand-in-hand to add a new functionality to crypto.
Turning it up a notch, JetBolt’s easy-to-earn staking mechanism turns ordinary staking into an electrifying experience. With its sleek, user-friendly Web3 wallet, joining is as effortless as a few clicks. And the twist: staking isn’t just about locking in tokens—it’s about active participation. Engage within the ecosystem and stakers earn even more rewards.
Meanwhile, JetBolt’s presale numbers don’t lie. Over 250 million JBOLT tokens have already been scooped up, with whales diving in to secure their piece of this zero-gas action. In addition, JetBolt’s Alpha Boxes, an exclusive presale perk that boosts batch token purchases by up to 25%, have been flying off the shelves, creating a frenzy that shows no signs of slowing down.
In a world where high gas fees and slow transactions plague most blockchains, JetBolt delivers something truly revolutionary. With every cutting-edge feature thoughtfully designed to resonate with modern and future crypto users, JetBolt quietly sets the bar higher for what blockchain networks can deliver—blending innovation and ease of use into a whole new crypto experience.
- Polkadot (DOT)
Polkadot (DOT) has dropped over 5% in the past week to $6.71 amid $1.23 million in long liquidations. Despite the dip, its advanced parachain technology and expanding ecosystem position Polkadot as a key player in 2025’s multichain future, with crypto analysts targeting $20 soon.
- Ripple (XRP)
Ripple’s (XRP) price holds at $2.34 with a $134.48 billion market cap. Crypto analysts anticipate a $3 breakout, driven by Ripple’s renewed U.S. expansion amid regulatory optimism under Trump. Its focus on blockchain-based CBDC solutions positions XRP as a key player for 2025.
- Ethereum (ETH)
Ethereum (ETH) trades at $3,319.97 following a 10% drop after the Foundation’s 100 ETH sale. Key support stands at $3,061, with resistance at $3,500. Despite short-term bearish momentum, Ethereum’s dominance in DeFi, staking, and upcoming Danksharding upgrade makes it a top contender for 2025.
- Ethena (ENA)
Ethena (ENA) faces bearish momentum, trading at $0.9295 with a $2.81 billion market cap. The Death Cross and oversold RSI signal risks, though possible rebounds could push Ethena toward $1.01.
Meanwhile, Trump’s World Liberty Financial putting in millions in Ethena has fueled bullish sentiment, signaling growing institutional interest. This strategic move could boost ENA’s credibility and adoption, providing holders possible stability and long-term value.
X posts by Panos highlight Trump’s World Liberty Financial purchasing millions of dollars in Ethena (ENA)
In addition, its unique stablecoin protocol expansion strengthens Ethena’s DeFi appeal, further establishing it as one of the top picks for 2025.
- Optimism (OP)
Optimism (OP) trades at $1.79 with a $2.41 billion market cap. Despite recent bearish sentiment, its Bedrock upgrade, reducing transaction costs by 40%, positions Optimism as a key Ethereum Layer 2 solution. Crypto analysts eye $2.20 resistance and possible $3.00 targets for OP.
- Injective (INJ)
Injective (INJ) is now priced at $21.18 with key support at $22 and resistance near $26. A breakout from its descending channel hints at possible bullish trajectories. Injective’s unique focus on decentralized derivatives trading and cross-chain liquidity positions it among 2025’s top cryptocurrencies.
- Uniswap (UNI)
Uniswap (UNI) struggles with a 0.33% daily dip, trading at $12.99 with a $7.8 billion market cap. Despite bearish trends, its innovative decentralized exchange model and Layer 2 scaling solutions could drive renewed interest, positioning UNI as a top 2025 contender.
- Cardano (ADA)
Cardano (ADA) now trades at $0.9286 with a $32.67 billion market cap. Crypto analysts predict a price range of $1.50 to $2.50 in 2025, depending on key support levels and market sentiment. Cardano’s Hydra upgrade pledges scalability, boosting adoption across decentralized applications.
- Tron (TRX)
Tron (TRX) is holding just a little above key support at $0.245, currently pinned at $0.2463. A possible breakout above $0.2700 could push TRX’s prices toward $0.40. Recent partnerships and its ISO 20022 integration further position Tron as a top blockchain for institutional adoption.
What is the best crypto to buy right now in 2025?
While nothing in crypto is ever guaranteed, JetBolt (JBOLT) stands out as one of the top choices for the best cryptocurrency coins to buy right now. With its zero-gas technology, crypto-earning staking model, and AI-powered functionality, JetBolt is leading the way in redefining user-friendly blockchain experiences. JetBolt’s ongoing presale success—with whales already snapping up over 250 million JBOLT tokens—also signals growing excitement around its ecosystem.
What are the 10 best cryptocurrency coins for 2025?
Based on recent price movements and market insights, here are the top 10 best cryptocurrency coins for 2025:
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Cardano (ADA)
- JetBolt (JBOLT)
- Tron (TRX)
- Polkadot (DOT)
- Ripple (XRP)
- Uniswap (UNI)
- Injective (INJ)
- Optimism (OP)
- Ethena (ENA)
This list of the best cryptocurrencies to buy right now for 2025 include coins with strong ecosystems, utility, and continued development.
In Summary: 10 Best Cryptocurrency Coins to Watch for 2025
Major crypto names like Ethereum (ETH), Ripple’s XRP, Cardano (ADA), and Polkadot (DOT) remain dominant, but breaking news highlights JetBolt’s (JBOLT) presale success and groundbreaking innovations as whale activity surges. Meanwhile, Ethena (ENA), Optimism (OP), Injective (INJ), Uniswap (UNI), and Tron (TRX) also make the list with key developments and strong ecosystems driving interest. Whether through staking rewards, blockchain scalability, or decentralized applications, these cryptocurrency coins deliver unique propositions worth following closely in the coming months.
Explore JetBolt’s game-changing technology and seize the presale excitement by visiting:
JetBolt’s Official Website: https://jetbolt.io/
JetBolt on X: https://x.com/jetboltofficial
Please note that this write-up is not financial advice. Remember that all cryptocurrencies are volatile. Always do your research and consult experts before navigating the unpredictable world of digital assets. No future performance is ever guaranteed, so always exercise caution.
Crypto
U.S. Senate to Launch Cryptocurrency Subcommittee, Lummis Tapped as Chair
The U.S. Senate Banking Committee, under the leadership of Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), is poised to establish a dedicated cryptocurrency subcommittee to advance discussions on digital asset regulation and industry oversight, according to a report by Fox News.
The formation of this subcommittee, modeled after a similar House panel created in 2023, marks a pivotal step toward a more structured approach to crypto legislation at the federal level.
A Senate aide told Fox News that Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis, a staunch advocate for cryptocurrency, is the tentative choice to chair this groundbreaking panel. The selection of Lummis, pending a committee vote next Thursday, signals a shift in the Senate’s approach to digital assets. Alongside her nomination, the subcommittee members, representing both Republican and Democratic sides, will also be finalized through the same voting process.
Lummis, known for her vocal support of Bitcoin, has described the asset as “freedom money” and has advocated for its potential to hedge against inflation and enhance financial independence.
She previously proposed a plan for the US to acquire a significant stake in the total Bitcoin supply through a 1-million-unit purchase program over a set period. “Establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve to bolster the U.S. dollar with a digital hard asset will secure our nation’s standing as the global financial leader for decades to come,” Lummis said at the time.
Her leadership could steer the subcommittee toward developing a more balanced regulatory framework, fostering innovation while ensuring market integrity.
Senator Tim Scott first hinted at the possibility of forming a crypto-focused subcommittee during the Wyoming Blockchain Symposium last August. “Wouldn’t it be kind of cool if we had a subcommittee on the Banking Committee… so that we bring more light to the conversation, more hearings on the industry, so that we get things done faster?” Scott remarked, highlighting his vision for streamlined legislative action.
This move comes as Scott replaces outgoing Chair Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), who maintained a more critical stance on cryptocurrency. Brown frequently called for stricter oversight, citing concerns about crypto’s role in enabling illicit activities and circumventing sanctions. The change in leadership, coupled with the creation of a dedicated subcommittee, could lead to a friendlier regulatory environment for digital assets under the new administration.
Notably, the subcommittee will include other crypto-friendly lawmakers such as Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and newly elected Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), both vocal supporters of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency. Moreno, who defeated Brown in the November elections, has vowed to champion crypto-friendly policies in the Senate.
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