Refund Plan for Recovered Assets

The protocol will return the $8 million in recovered tokens, secured by whitehat teams and Balancer internal security, to affected users in the same token types. StakeWise separately handles $19.7 million in osETH and osGNO positions with an independent recovery timeline.

Whitehat actors, who helped secure funds ahead of the hacker, will receive 10% of the recovered assets as rewards, paid in the same token types. Some chose to waive their rewards, highlighting ethical hacking compliance under Balancer’s Safe Harbor Agreement.

Affected users will connect their wallets, verify balances via snapshot, and accept a short legal agreement. Approved claims are paid instantly. The claim window is expected to be open for 90–180 days, after which unclaimed funds may be redirected by DAO vote.

Market Impact and Behavioral Analysis

Following this, the attacker recently moved 6,999 ETH to a new wallet, triggering increased attention and scrutiny on on-chain analytics platforms. After the exploit, Balancer’s TVL dropped from $775 million to $258 million, and the BAL token lost roughly 30% of its value. Meanwhile, the announcement of the refund plan led to a 2% recovery in BAL price over the past 24 hours.

The root cause of the attack was minor rounding errors in some v2 pool balance calculations. This flaw created extremely unbalanced pools, enabling manipulation that drained millions of dollars.

DeFi Security Test

This refund initiative emphasizes transparency and strengthens investor confidence. The DAO expects the claim portal to go live in late December or early January, while StakeWise recovery follows its own schedule. The case underscores the importance of secure DeFi protocols for future investor trust.

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Arkham Intelligence reported that the exploiter transferred 6,999 ETH to a newly created wallet. The movement followed an earlier one-ETH test transaction the attacker used to verify routing paths, a method frequently seen in DeFi exploit behavior. These transfers suggest a coordinated attempt to secure exit liquidity before further recovery efforts restrict access.

Recovery Efforts Reveal Hidden Scaling Vulnerability

Balancer stated that the recovered amount was tied to a vulnerability inside its internal scaling logic. The issue originated from a function responsible for adjusting token values during pool calculations. The attacker identified small rounding discrepancies and repeated swap operations to generate precise micro-profits. This approach differed from earlier Balancer incidents and demonstrated how new attack vectors continue to emerge in decentralized finance.

StakeWise also recovered a major portion of the assets drained during the event. The project retrieved 5,041 osETH through a smart contract call, reducing the overall stolen amount from $117 million to $98 million. The improvement helped several platforms restore halted services. Stader Polygon resumed MaticX unstaking after temporarily suspending withdrawals to prevent liquidity access during the critical stage of the investigation.

Major Crypto Security Breaches Continue Through 2025

The Balancer exploit adds to a series of high-impact attacks that shaped the crypto landscape in 2025. Earlier in the year, Cetus Protocol lost $260 million after a coordinated exploit. Investigators traced 12.9 million SUI to an attacker-linked wallet before the funds were moved through USDC and converted into ETH. Bybit also faced a severe security breach involving more than $1.4 billion in digital assets, marked by unusual ETH withdrawals from addresses tied to exchange inflows. Centralized platform BigONE reported a $27 million loss after attackers accessed its hot wallet, draining BTC, ETH, SOL, SHIB and USDT.

These incidents illustrate a broader trend of exploiters combining multi-chain routing, stablecoin swaps and rapid wallet transitions to obscure their tracks. Analysts emphasize that these patterns now form a consistent framework across most high-value attacks.

On-Chain Signals and Market Impact as the Investigation Continues

The attacker’s movements have intensified market attention as observers monitor large-scale transfers and potential liquidation strategies. The ongoing activity increases concerns about short-term liquidity pressure, especially in ecosystems linked to Balancer’s pools. On-chain experts note that rising conversion frequency, new address creation and repeated routing tests often indicate imminent selling phases during post-exploit periods.

The Balancer hack continues to evolve as investigators analyze transaction patterns and track the remaining assets. Market participants remain alert, recognizing that the attacker’s next steps could influence sentiment, trading volume and liquidity in the coming days.

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Shibarium Bridge Flash Loan Attack Details 

On September 14, the Shibarium cross-chain bridge became the target of a sophisticated flash loan attack. The hacker borrowed 4.6 million BONE tokens and gained control of 10 out of 12 validator signing keys, achieving a two-thirds majority. Using this power, the attacker attempted to withdraw approximately 224.57 ETH and 92.6 billion SHIB. 

Shiba Inu developers acted quickly to suspend staking and unstaking functions, locking the BONE tokens and removing majority control from the attacker. In addition, the hacker held about $700,000 worth of KNINE tokens from the K9 Finance DAO project. The K9 Finance DAO denylisted the attacker’s address to prevent KNINE token liquidation. LEASH, ROAR, TREAT, BAD, and SHIFU coins were also affected but have not been moved or sold. 

UPDATE 13/09/25

What we know so far about the recent incident

How the exploit was executed:

• The attacker used funds from the bridge hack in the same block as the attack to acquire 4.6M BONE to temporarily gain validator voting power, attempting to do it in one… https://t.co/4Ft1VMxeBv

— Shib (@Shibtoken) September 13, 2025

Developer Actions and Security Measures 

The Shiba Inu team secured investor funds by transferring them from proxy contracts to a multisig cold storage wallet. They collaborated with security firms Hexens, Seal911, and PeckShield to conduct a thorough investigation. The developers confirmed that the 4.6 million BONE tokens remain locked, and all validator assets are secure. They continue monitoring and freezing attacker-linked funds while preparing a full incident report. 

Market Impact and Token Performance 

Despite the attack, BONE token surged by 40% while SHIB gained over 8%. These movements reflect investor confidence following the team’s rapid intervention. The Shibarium attack highlights DeFi ecosystem risks, but Shiba Inu’s swift measures ensured all funds stayed safe. 

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Brief About the Project 

World Liberty Financial positions itself as a US-based DeFi project aiming to reinforce the global dominance of the US Dollar and promote financial freedom. Unlike traditional financial systems with centralized authorities, WLF is community-driven, promising users more control over their assets. 

Team 

The team behind World Liberty Financial combines the Trump family’s political and brand power with experienced crypto entrepreneurs’ technical expertise: 

• Donald J. Trump – Chief Crypto Representative: Leading the vision to make America the “Crypto Capital of the World.” 
• Eric Trump – Web3 Ambassador: Active in daily management and platform promotion. 
• Donald Trump Jr. – Web3 Ambassador: Collaborates in platform management and community engagement. 
• Barron Trump – DeFi Visionary: Listed as the decentralized finance visionary adding fresh perspectives. 
• Chase Herro: Co-founder of WLF and partner at Axiom Management Group (AMG), leading the technical team. 

The Trump family owns 50% of World Liberty Financial and receives 50% of all revenue from token sales. Initially, they received 22.5 billion WLFI tokens as supporters. 

Investors and Key Partners 

World Liberty Financial has attracted notable investors: 

• MGX (Abu Dhabi): Received significant support of $2 billion from MGX, a company based in Abu Dhabi.
• Zak Folkman and Chase Herro: Co-founders with previous experience at Dough Finance.
• Steve Witkoff: A real estate mogul who facilitated the Trump family’s involvement in the project.
• Aqua1 Foundation: A UAE-based fund that made the largest public WLFI investment ($100 million).
• Justin Sun: Founder of Tron, who invested over $75 million in WLFI.
• DWF Labs: Contributed $25 million and helped support WLFI’s liquidity.
• Sui and Chainlink: WLFI integrates with Sui assets and uses Chainlink oracles on Ethereum for price data.

Project Idea 

World Liberty Financial’s core idea is to strengthen the US Dollar digitally and bring decentralized finance (DeFi) to mainstream users. Unlike traditional banking, WLF eliminates intermediaries to offer users direct control over their assets. The project emphasizes American ideals like “Freedom, privacy, and financial liberty.” 

How Does It Work? 

World Liberty Financial operates through the WLF Protocol, with a community-based governance model centered around the $WLFI token. 

WLFI Token ($WLFI) 

The $WLFI token functions as a governance token with features such as: 

• Equal Voting Rights: Each WLFI token gives one vote, but no single person can hold more than 5% of total votes to ensure fairness. 
• Proposal Creation: Token holders can propose various platform changes. 
• Network: Built on Ethereum blockchain. 
• Non-Transferable: Tokens cannot be sold or transferred, making them solely for governance participation without profit motives. 
• Purpose: Used only for governance voting, not financial returns. 

USD1 Stablecoin 

Launched in March 2025, USD1 is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the US Dollar and a vital part of WLF’s mission to empower the US Dollar. By April 2025, it reached a circulation volume of $2.1 billion, becoming one of the fastest-growing stablecoins. 

Management Model 

WLF’s governance is democratic and community-focused: 

1. Proposal Submission: Any WLFI token holder can submit proposals. 
2. Community Review: Discussions happen on official forums. 
3. Voting: Token holders vote via Snapshot, usually lasting one week. 
4. Implementation: Approved proposals are executed by the technical team. 
5. This system prevents a single entity or group from controlling the platform’s future. 

Investment Requirements 

• US Participants: Must qualify as accredited investors. 
• International Participants: Must be outside the US. 
• KYC Compliance: Mandatory for all users. 
• How It Works and Why It Matters 
• USD1’s value is backed 1:1 by real US Dollars or equivalent high-liquid assets (e.g., US Treasury bonds). This peg makes USD1 a safe haven against crypto volatility. 

Key benefits of USD1: 

• Protection from Volatility: Keeps asset value stable amidst price swings. 
• Fast and Low-Cost Transfers: Enables cheaper, quicker cross-border payments. 
• DeFi Integration: Used for lending, borrowing, and yield farming within WLF and broader DeFi. 
• Strengthens the US Dollar’s digital role supporting Trump’s vision to make it the “Crypto Capital of the World.” 

WLFI Token Distribution 

• 35%: Reserved for token sales. 
• 32.5%: For community growth and incentives. 
• 30%: Allocated to early supporters (including Trump family’s initial 22.5 billion tokens). 
• 2.5%: For team members and advisors. 

WLFI Token Supply: 

• Total Supply: 10 Peta (10P) WLFI
• Circulating Supply: 10P WLFI (all tokens are non-transferable and used for governance)

USD1 Stablecoin Supply (Latest): 

• Total Supply: 2.2 Billion USD1 
• Circulating Supply: 2.2 Billion USD1 

Roadmap 

Though there is no detailed roadmap, the project was founded in 2024 and launched USD1 in March 2025. By April 2025, USD1 reached a $2.1 billion circulation, highlighting rapid growth. Future updates and partnerships will be community-voted. 

Ecosystem 

WLF aims to increase financial freedom and strengthen the US Dollar digitally. Core elements include: 

WLFI Token for governance 

• USD1 Stablecoin as the main digital dollar asset 
• WLF Protocol as the tech backbone 
• Community voting and discussions 
• Blockchain analytics via platforms like Arkham Intelligence 

Features 

WLF offers: 

• Democratic decision-making with voting limits 
• Supports USD-backed stablecoins 
• Easy access to DeFi services 
• Strong security audits 
• Beginner-friendly UI 
• Educational resources 
• American values focus 
• Risks and Considerations 

WLFI tokens are non-transferable and do not yield profits, which may deter some investors. 

• Political ties to the Trump family introduce regulatory and political risks. 
• Accredited investor requirements limit US user base. 
• Trump family’s 50% ownership raises questions about decentralization. 
• Being a new 2024 project, long-term sustainability is unproven. 

Social Media and Communities

• Website
• Twitter
• Telegram

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From MakerDAO to Sky: A Strategic Rebrand 

The story of Sky Protocol began in 2015 as MakerDAO. Originally operating under the Single Collateral Dai (SAI) model, the platform evolved into a Multi-Collateral Dai (MCD) system that accepted a broader range of assets. By November 2019, MakerDAO had fully transitioned to a decentralized governance structure. In 2023, the project took a major leap by rebranding to “Sky Protocol”—a change reflecting its expanded vision, including Real World Asset (RWA) integrations beyond crypto. 

Sky aims to create a secure and decentralized ecosystem where stablecoins are backed by transparent, asset-based systems integrating both DeFi and traditional finance. 

How Sky Works: Collateral Vaults & Stablecoin Issuance 

Sky Protocol allows users to deposit approved collateral (like ETH or RWAs) into smart contract-based Vaults to mint stablecoins (Dai or USDS). Also this process is entirely automated and transparent via smart contracts. 

Key Components of Sky Protocol: 

• Sky Vaults: Smart contracts that enable stablecoin minting against collateral. 
• RWA Vaults: Advanced vaults that accept tokenized real-world assets (e.g., real estate, bonds), using RWA tokens and oracles for valuation. 
• External Actors: Includes Keepers (for arbitrage and price stability), Oracles (price feeds), and Emergency Oracles (able to trigger shutdown). 
• DSR & SSR: Dai and USDS holders can earn yield by locking their tokens in savings contracts. These rates are governed by protocol governance. 
• Liquidation Process: When collateral value drops below a threshold, the protocol auctions the collateral via an Automatic Liquidation Mechanism. 

Key Features of Sky Protocol 

Sky ensures the stability and transparency of its stablecoins through several innovations: 

• Multi-Collateral Support: Accepts ETH, various ERC-20 tokens, and RWAs. 
• Soft USD Peg: Dai and USDS are softly pegged to USD for a reliable store of value and medium of exchange. 
• Decentralized Governance: SKY holders control protocol changes via a dual-layer system—Governance and Executive Votes. 
• Transparency & Non-Custodial Vaults: All transactions are visible on Ethereum, and users retain control of their assets. 
• Advanced Security Layers: Systems like the Oracle Security Module (OSM), Governance Security Module (GSM), and Emergency Shutdown protect the protocol. 

Sky Ecosystem & Use Cases 

Sky Protocol is not just technical infrastructure; it’s a living, modular ecosystem accessed through various decentralized frontends and applications. 

Ecosystem Elements: 

• Stablecoins: DAI, USDS 
• Governance Token: SKY 
• Community Frontends: Oasis Borrow, SummerFi, instadapp, Zerion, MyEtherWallet 
• Stars: Independent teams managing RWA operations 
• Sky Atlas: A governance and system architecture framework 

SKY Token Utilities: 

• Voting: Used for governance proposals and parameter updates 
• System Backstop: Used to cover liquidation shortfalls 
• Store of Value: Represents community ownership and long-term value 

Team & Governance 

The protocol is led by seasoned DeFi experts: 

• Rune Christensen: Founder 
• Mariano Conti: Head of Smart Contracts 
• Gustav: Advisor 

Backers & Partners:  The project is developed in collaboration with the original Maker Foundation developers, independent contributors, and third-party custodians in the RWA ecosystem. Investor names are not disclosed in the whitepaper.  

Tokenomics 

• Total Supply: 23.46B SKY 
• Circulating Supply: 21.28B SKY 

Roadmap Highlights 

1. 2022: Launched Web3 fund platform v1.0, broker partnerships with Gate and Binance 
2. 2023: Reached 50K users, launched DAO, partnered with TRON and ChainGPT 
3. 2024 (Planned): TGE, Telegram Mini App, DEX/CEX integration, algo trading, SDK/API tools 
4. 2025 (Target): AI tech, NFT management, and crypto cashback features 

Community & Social Channels 

• Website
• Twitter
• Discord

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The new direction? Open-source development, stronger security, and a commitment to compensate users.

Vulnerability Patched, Open-Source Future Unveiled

On May 22, attackers took advantage of a flaw in Cetus‘ pricing mechanism, draining major liquidity pools. Fortunately, $162 million worth of stolen assets were frozen shortly after.

You Might Be Interested In: Elon Musk Talks About the Name of a New Memecoin!

In a June 7 statement, the team revealed that they’ve not only patched the vulnerability but are also transitioning to an open-source model. A new white hat bounty program is launching to crowdsource contributions to security and stability.

Liquidity Restored Through Multiple Channels

To resume operations, Cetus replenished its liquidity using $7 million in cash reserves, a $30 million USDC loan from the Sui Foundation, and partial recovery of the stolen funds. Recovery rates for affected pools range from 85% to 99%, depending on the drain severity.

As part of a user compensation strategy, 15% of CETUS token supply has been allocated. While 5% will be distributed immediately, the remaining 10% will unlock linearly over 12 months, starting June 10.

Legal Action Underway As Security Tightens

Though a $6 million white hat bounty was initially offered, the attacker has started laundering funds, prompting Cetus to pursue legal action across multiple jurisdictions. Law enforcement agencies are actively involved, and the team remains confident about asset recovery.

Security audits are being ramped up again as Cetus aims to win back user trust through transparency and resilience.

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USD1 Becomes a Re-Stakeable Asset for the First Time

In a groundbreaking move, KernelDAO has partnered with World Liberty Financial (WLFI) to integrate USD1 as a re-stakeable asset on its platform. Through this feature, USD1 holders can now provide economic security for third-party decentralized applications and earn Kernel points in return.

You Might Be Interested In: Elon Musk Talks About the Name of a New Memecoin!

Backed by U.S. Treasuries, USD1 is designed for transparency and reliability, making it ideal for such utility. WLFI emphasized that this is the first time USD1 will be used to secure external decentralized apps—a major leap for stablecoin functionality.

KERNEL Token Jumps 22% After Announcement

Following the announcement, KernelDAO’s KERNEL token surged from $0.18 to $0.22, a 22% increase in value. The price rally signals market excitement and confidence in the project’s direction.

In parallel, Korean exchange Upbit confirmed it would list KERNEL in both BTC and USDT trading pairs, adding significant liquidity and exposure for KernelDAO.

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On April 26, a hacker siphoned around $5.7 million USDC and 1,200 SOL by executing a series of undercollateralized loans, co-founder Mary Gooneratne said.

Following the attack, Loopscale announced it had re-enabled loan repayments, balance top-ups, and loop closing. However, “all other app functionalities, including Vault withdrawals, remain temporarily restricted” as investigations continue.

You Might Be Interested In: Elon Musk Talks About the Name of a New Memecoin!

Gooneratne clarified that only the USDC and SOL vaults were impacted, with the losses representing about 12% of the protocol’s total value locked (TVL).

DeFi Sector Continues to Face Cyber Threats!

The Loopscale team emphasized that they are fully mobilized to investigate the incident, recover the stolen funds, and protect users.

In the first quarter of 2025, hackers stole over $1.6 billion in cryptocurrencies from exchanges and on-chain smart contracts. Over 90% of these losses were attributed to the $1.5 billion hack on the centralized exchange ByBit, reportedly orchestrated by North Korea’s Lazarus Group.

Loopscale’s Innovative Lending Model

Loopscale officially launched on April 10 after a six-month closed beta. The platform aims to boost capital efficiency by directly matching lenders and borrowers.

Unlike traditional DeFi platforms like Aave, Loopscale operates on an order book model rather than liquidity pools.

Its main USDC and SOL vaults currently offer annual percentage rates (APRs) exceeding 5% and 10%, respectively. It also supports lending markets for tokens such as JitoSOL, BONK, and looping strategies for over 40 token pairs.

Loopscale holds approximately $40 million in total value locked and has attracted over 7,000 lenders, according to researcher OurNetwork.

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