epakconsultant

bitcoin

Bitcoin, the forerunner of digital currencies, has now emerged from its downward trend, and it still has a certain leading effect on the US stock market. Currently, Trump has started a new round of turmoil with tariffs and seeking investment from allies. Smart investors in the market should take action in advance.


Bitcoin and Trump

tech

Sick of Paying Full Price for ChatGPT Plus? The Real Scoop on Saving Money

Frustrated You Can’t Create a US Apple ID? Here’s the 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

If you were given $5 million, how would you start a business with it?

news

🌍 World & Politics
1. Donald Trump announces sweeping new tariffs and ICE empowerment
Former President Trump revealed a 30% tariff on all imports from the EU and Mexico, effective August 1, citing insufficient efforts on drug trafficking. The EU is preparing possible €21 billion retaliatory measures 
The Guardian

Trump also granted ICE agents “full authorization to use any necessary means” for self‑defense and to arrest protesters obstructing immigration enforcement 
The Guardian

2. "Handala" Freedom Flotilla sets sail to Gaza
Activists launched the Handala ship today from Italy as part of the July 2025 Gaza Freedom Flotilla, aiming to break the Israeli naval blockade and deliver much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza 
Wikipedia
.

🎾 Sports & Environment
3. Wimbledon 2025 concludes today
The 138th Wimbledon finals take place on July 13, marking another historic moment in tennis. Notably, this year featured the first-ever electronic line-judging system at the prestigious tournament .

4. Europe endures third major heatwave this month
The U.K. is in the grip of its third heatwave since early July, with amber heat-health alerts issued and hose-pipe bans active across several regions, including Yorkshire Water and Kent/Sussex areas 
Wikipedia

🌐 Asia & Australia
5. Australia reaffirms stance on Taiwan during China visit
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized Canberra's commitment to the status quo on Taiwan during his Shanghai trade mission. He also highlighted bilateral trade and tourism ties, and discussed domestic policy topics including vocational qualification fraud and rising violent crime 
The Guardian
.

6. KyivPost reports key updates in Ukraine crisis

Top developments include:

North Korea pledges “full support” to Crimea envoy Sergey Lavrov

Ukrainian drones successfully intercept Russian UAVs

A U.S.–Ukraine investment group funds a ground drone initiative
Kyiv Post + The Guardian


Japan & Global Expo

7. Osaka Expo hits 10 million visitors at midpoint
Midway through its run, the Osaka Expo recorded its 10 millionth visitor, highlighting its success and global interest 
Japan Wire by KYODO NEWS
.


The top 7 hot news events from Sunday, July 13, 2025

nostr

At some point, every trader asks the same question—
“Wait… am I actually trading, or just gambling with a prettier interface?”

It usually hits after:

A winning streak turns into a blow-up

You revenge-trade after a bad loss

You enter a position without a clear plan, thinking, “Just one more…”

And the truth is uncomfortably simple:

Trading becomes gambling the moment you trade without a system, edge, or discipline.

This article isn’t here to bash trading—or glorify it.
It’s here to show where the line gets blurred, how most people fall on the wrong side of it, and what to do if you want to trade without lying to yourself.

🎰 Let’s Define the Game: Gambling vs. Trading
Element	Gambling	Trading
🔄 Probability	Random odds	Statistical edge (if done right)
🧠 Emotions	High dopamine	Needs emotional control
💡 Decision-making	Based on luck or superstition	Based on analysis, strategy
🔁 Repeatability	Mostly chance	Measurable performance over time
📈 Long-term outlook	House always wins	Can win with edge + discipline

🎯 Where It Gets Dangerous: When Trading Feels Like Gambling
Here’s the truth that many "retail traders" ignore:

Most new traders start as gamblers.
Why? Because it feels the same:

Dopamine rush

Fast wins or losses

“Gut feeling” entries

No real plan—just vibes

Ask yourself:

Have you ever traded just because a candle looked “bullish”?

Entered a trade without a stop loss?

Doubled your position after a loss to “make it back”?

That’s not trading. That’s chasing.
That’s gambling with extra steps.

🧠 What Makes Real Trading Different?
A real trader treats the market like a business. That means:

1. 📊 You Have a Strategy With Proven Edge
You don’t just “feel” a move—you’ve backtested it.
You know:

Your average win/loss

Your win rate

Your drawdown threshold

When your system works—and when it doesn’t

If you don’t know those things? You’re flying blind.

2. 📉 You Manage Risk Like a Professional
Gamblers think about how much they could win.
Traders think about how much they could lose.

Professional traders:

Risk 1% or less per trade

Use stop losses religiously

Never go all-in

Accept small losses as part of the game

Gambling is hoping for a jackpot.
Trading is surviving 1,000 small battles to win the war.

3. 📓 You Journal and Review Every Trade
A gambler forgets their losses.
A trader studies them.

One of the biggest shifts in mindset is when you stop saying:

“Why did I lose?”

And start saying:

“What did I learn?”

Trading becomes measurable when you start thinking in data, not dopamine.

4. 🧘 You Learn to Master Yourself
The markets don’t beat you.
Your emotions do.

Real traders have:

Patience

Discipline

Humility

The ability to sit out

Gamblers get high on action.
Traders get high on control.

💥 What If You Realize You’ve Been Gambling This Whole Time?
First of all—welcome. You’re not alone.
Most people only realize it after they’ve blown up a few accounts.

Here’s how to reset:

Stop trading for a week

Review every trade from the last month

Identify what your actual edge (if any) was

Build a rule-based strategy with risk controls

Demo trade it with a journal

Only go live again when you're consistent

It’s not about never making mistakes. It’s about being honest with yourself and adjusting.

Is Trading Just Glorified Gambling? The Uncomfortable Truth Most Traders Avoid

crypto

1. Bitcoin Hits Record High Near $119K — ETF Inflows & Short Squeeze Fuel Surge
Bitcoin surged to new all-time highs (~$118,000–$119,000), driven by massive spot ETF inflows (over $1B in a single day, $51B cumulative in 2025) and the unwinding of over $1B in short positions. Ethereum and altcoins also rallied strongly amid bullish sentiment.


2. Wall Street Analysts Predict BTC May Surge to $134K
Technical analysts point to bullish patterns—a cup‑and‑handle formation and supportive MACD—for continued upside. Bitcoin’s new support sits around $108,300, with a potential rally to $134,500 in sight.


3. Crypto Stocks Rally Ahead of “Crypto Week” Legislation
As "Crypto Week" approaches in Washington, crypto mining and infrastructure stocks (Riot, Hut 8, Mara) surged. Legislators are preparing to vote on major bills—the GENIUS Act, CLARITY Act, and Anti‑CBDC Surveillance State Act—which may bring regulatory clarity.


4. GENIUS Act Advances: Stablecoin Framework Nears Final Approval
The Senate-passed GENIUS Act would require private firms to issue fully reserved stablecoins under AML checks. Approved legislation supports stablecoin clarity and complements proposed anti-CBDC measures. U.S. retail giants like Walmart and Amazon are exploring their own stablecoins.


5. China Signals Possible Softening on Crypto Policy for Stablecoins
Shanghai regulators held high-level meetings about yuan-pegged stablecoins, signaling a potential shift in China’s previously strict crypto ban. JD.com and Ant Group are preparing licenses in Hong Kong, where stablecoin legislation launches August 1.


6. RBI Eyes Global Crypto Developments as India Drafts Policy
India’s central bank is closely monitoring U.S. and global crypto regulatory shifts, including the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and stablecoin frameworks, as it considers drafting its own policy paper.


7. Tornado Cash Co‑Creator Faces Money Laundering Trial
Roman Storm, co-creator of the Tornado Cash privacy tool, is set for trial in New York on charges including sanctions violations and money laundering. The outcome could set a landmark precedent for developer liability in decentralized finance.


Summary 
Bitcoin's parabolic rally highlights the power of institutional demand and ETF adoption.

Bullish technical setups point toward further upside, though volatility remains a risk.

Crypto Week legislation could define U.S. stablecoin and altcoin regulation for years to come.

Global watchers from China and India are signaling potential policy shifts, reinforcing crypto’s transitional moment.

The Tornado Cash trial underscores continued legal risk for DeFi developers and privacy tools.



Crypto Hot News Summary – July 12, 2025

Most people know the basics: wallets, nodes, and exchanges. But Bitcoin’s ecosystem is way deeper than that. Here are 10 underrated tools that hardcore Bitcoiners (and builders) should have in their toolbox:

1. Mempool.space (with API mode)
Not just a mempool visualizer—its API lets you track fee pressure, TX IDs, and mining pool behavior in real-time.

2. Sparrow Wallet’s Airgap Mode
Turn any old laptop into a fully offline signing device with a sleek interface. Better UX than most hardware wallets.

3. SeedSigner
Build your own DIY hardware wallet for ~$50. Camera-based seed input, open-source, no memory = ultimate stateless setup.

4. Bitcoin Dev Kit (BDK)
Build Bitcoin apps with modern tools in Rust. You get full control over UTXOs, key management, and wallet logic.

5. Lightning Terminal (LiT)
An all-in-one Lightning dashboard from Lightning Labs. Manage channels, run loop/swap, and monitor your LND node from a browser.

6. SeedQR / UR2 Standard
A new QR format for sharing Bitcoin seeds securely, error-resistant, and compatible with devices like SeedSigner.

7. Lightning Box
Instantly spin up test Lightning nodes in Docker—great for devs testing new ideas with zero setup friction.

8. KYCP.org
See how much data your TX leaks. Great for privacy testing—check if a TX has identifiable fingerprints.

9. Silent Payments (via JoinMarket beta)
A privacy improvement that lets people pay you without ever showing your address on-chain. Still experimental but very cool.

10. Ordisrespector
Filters out Ordinal inscriptions and BRC-20 junk from your node’s mempool. Keep your blockspace clean.

10 Bitcoin Tools You Probably Never Knew Existed

bitdevs

Curve V3 AI-Powered Liquidity: How Oracle Price Feeds and Machine Learning Slash

Maximizing Compound Income with Binance Maverick Protocol

Do you want to learn crypto trading

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Top 10 Banks Offering Crypto-Friendly Services in 2024

ideasfromtheedge

In a world where instant gratification is just a click away, many men find themselves ensnared in the web of pornography. While it might seem harmless at first, excessive consumption of porn can lead to significant issues, including addiction, distorted perceptions of intimacy, and a profound sense of disconnection from one's own masculinity. This article explores practical strategies to quit porn and reclaim your masculinity, empowering you to lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.

Understanding the Impact of Pornography on Masculinity

Pornography has become increasingly accessible, leading to a surge in consumption among men of all ages. However, the consequences of this habit are often overlooked. Research suggests that excessive porn consumption can erode aspects of masculinity, such as confidence, integrity, and the ability to form healthy relationships.

The Psychological Effects

Addiction: Just like substance abuse, porn can create dependency. Many individuals report feeling compelled to watch porn despite negative consequences on their personal lives.

Distorted Reality: Porn often presents an unrealistic portrayal of sex and relationships, leading to skewed expectations and dissatisfaction with real-life intimacy.

Emotional Isolation: Frequent use can result in feelings of shame and guilt, causing users to withdraw from social interactions and meaningful relationships.

The Physical Consequences

Reduced Testosterone Levels: Regular consumption of porn can negatively impact testosterone levels, leading to decreased energy, motivation, and overall vitality.

Erectile Dysfunction: Studies indicate a correlation between excessive porn use and erectile dysfunction in younger men, stemming from desensitization to sexual stimuli.

Steps to Quit Pornography

Quitting porn is not merely about stopping a habit; it involves a holistic approach that encompasses mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Here are actionable steps to help you break free from the cycle:

1. Acknowledge the Problem

The first step towards recovery is acknowledging that porn consumption has become problematic. Reflect on how it affects your life—your relationships, self-esteem, and overall happiness. Journaling your thoughts can help clarify your feelings and motivations for quitting.

2. Set Clear Goals

Define what quitting porn means for you. Is it complete abstinence or reducing consumption? Establish specific, measurable goals that align with your personal values and aspirations.

3. Identify Triggers

Understanding what prompts your urge to watch porn is crucial for developing effective coping strategies:
Emotional Triggers: Stress, loneliness, or boredom may lead you to seek out porn as an escape.

Environmental Triggers: Certain locations or times of day may be associated with your viewing habits.
Once you identify your triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or cope with them.

4. Replace with Healthy Alternatives

Finding healthier outlets for stress relief and entertainment can significantly aid in your recovery:
Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise; it boosts endorphins and helps improve mood.

Hobbies: Explore new interests or revisit old ones that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Social Connections: Strengthen relationships with friends and family by spending quality time together.

5. Seek Support

Quitting porn can be challenging when done alone. Consider seeking support from:
Therapists or Counselors: Professionals specializing in addiction can provide valuable insights and coping 

strategies.
Support Groups: Connecting with others facing similar challenges fosters accountability and encouragement.

6. Educate Yourself

Understanding the implications of pornography on mental health and relationships can reinforce your commitment to quitting:

Read books or listen to podcasts focused on overcoming addiction.
Follow experts who discuss masculinity and healthy relationships.


7. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques can help you manage urges when they arise:
Meditation: Practicing mindfulness meditation enhances self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Deep Breathing Exercises: These techniques can help ground you during moments of temptation.

Reclaiming Your Masculinity

As you embark on this journey towards quitting porn, it’s essential to focus on reclaiming your masculinity:

1. Define Your Values

Take time to reflect on what masculinity means to you personally. Consider qualities such as courage, integrity, responsibility, and empathy—traits that contribute positively to your identity as a man.

2. Build Healthy Relationships

Invest time in nurturing genuine connections with others:
Friendships: Foster deep friendships with other men who share similar values.
Romantic Relationships: Approach dating with honesty and openness; prioritize emotional intimacy over physical gratification.

3. Set Personal Goals

Establish goals that reflect your aspirations beyond quitting porn:

Career ambitions
Personal development
Physical fitness targets
By focusing on self-improvement, you’ll cultivate a sense of purpose that reinforces your commitment to change.

4. Engage in Community Activities

Participating in community service or group activities provides opportunities for personal growth while fostering connections with others who share your values.

Conclusion

Quitting pornography is not merely about breaking a habit; it's about reclaiming your identity as a man who embodies strength, integrity, and authenticity. By acknowledging the problem, setting clear goals, seeking support, and focusing on personal growth, you can overcome the challenges posed by pornography addiction.

As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that reclaiming your masculinity is not just about abstaining from porn—it's about embracing a fulfilling life characterized by meaningful relationships and personal empowerment. The path may be challenging at times, but the rewards of living authentically are well worth the effort. Take the first step today towards a healthier future—one where you fully embrace what it means to be a man in today's world.

How to Quit Porn and Reclaim Your Masculinity: A Path to Personal Empowerment

As the world increasingly embraces blockchain technology, decentralized applications (DApps) have emerged as a revolutionary force. Unlike traditional applications, DApps operate on a decentralized network, offering users enhanced security, transparency, and control over their data. However, with these advantages come unique challenges, particularly in testing and quality assurance. DApp testers play a crucial role in ensuring that these applications function correctly and securely. This article explores the key skills required to become a successful DApp tester, equipping you with the knowledge to thrive in this dynamic field.

Understanding DApps and Their Unique Testing Requirements

Before diving into the specific skills needed for DApp testing, it is essential to understand what makes DApps different from traditional applications. DApps are built on blockchain technology and often utilize smart contracts to automate processes. This decentralization introduces complexities in testing that require specialized knowledge and skills.

Key Characteristics of DApps

Decentralization: Unlike traditional apps that run on centralized servers, DApps operate on a peer-to-peer network.

Smart Contracts: These self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code are fundamental to DApps.

Blockchain Technology: Understanding the underlying blockchain is critical for effective testing.
Given these characteristics, DApp testers must develop skills that address both traditional software testing techniques and the unique aspects of blockchain technology.

Essential Skills for DApp Testers

1. Proficiency in Blockchain Technology

A solid understanding of blockchain fundamentals is paramount for any DApp tester. This includes:
Blockchain Architecture: Familiarity with how different blockchains (like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, etc.) function.

Consensus Mechanisms: Knowledge of various consensus algorithms (Proof of Work, Proof of Stake) and their implications for transaction validation.
Smart Contract Functionality: Understanding how smart contracts work, including their lifecycle and potential vulnerabilities.

2. Testing Methodologies


DApp testers should be well-versed in various testing methodologies tailored for decentralized applications:
Functional Testing: Ensuring that all features of the DApp work as intended.
Integration Testing: Verifying that different components (smart contracts, user interfaces) interact seamlessly.
Performance Testing: Assessing how well the DApp performs under various loads and conditions.

3. Security Awareness

Security is a critical concern in the realm of DApps due to their decentralized nature:
Vulnerability Assessment: Ability to identify common vulnerabilities in smart contracts (e.g., reentrancy attacks, integer overflow).
Penetration Testing: Conducting simulated attacks to uncover potential security flaws.
Compliance Knowledge: Understanding relevant regulations and standards related to data protection and security.

4. Automation Skills

As with traditional software testing, automation plays a significant role in DApp testing:
Test Automation Tools: Familiarity with tools like Truffle, Hardhat, or Cypress that can help automate tests for smart contracts and user interfaces.
Scripting Languages: Proficiency in languages such as JavaScript or Python for writing automated test scripts.

5. Analytical Thinking

DApp testers must possess strong analytical skills to evaluate complex systems:
Problem-Solving Abilities: Capability to identify issues quickly and propose effective solutions.
Data Analysis: Ability to analyze test results and user feedback to improve application performance.

6. Effective Communication

Communication is vital in any testing role:
Collaboration with Developers: Testers must work closely with developers to report bugs and suggest improvements effectively.
Documentation Skills: Ability to document test cases, results, and procedures clearly for future reference.

7. User Experience (UX) Understanding

A good DApp tester should also focus on user experience:
Usability Testing: Evaluating how user-friendly the application is and identifying areas for improvement.
User Journey Mapping: Understanding how users interact with the DApp to ensure a seamless experience.

8. Continuous Learning Mindset

The field of blockchain technology is rapidly evolving:
Staying Updated: Keeping abreast of new developments in blockchain technology, tools, and best practices is crucial for long-term success.

Community Engagement: Participating in forums, webinars, and conferences related to blockchain and DApp development can provide valuable insights.

Conclusion

Becoming a proficient DApp tester requires a unique blend of technical knowledge, analytical skills, and an understanding of user experience principles. As decentralized applications continue to gain traction across various industries, the demand for skilled testers will only increase. By honing these essential skills—ranging from blockchain proficiency to effective communication—you can position yourself as a valuable asset in the world of decentralized technology.

In this exciting landscape where innovation meets security challenges, your role as a DApp tester will not only contribute to the success of individual projects but also help shape the future of digital applications. Embrace this journey with curiosity and determination, and you will find yourself at the forefront of one of the most transformative technological movements of our time.
 



Essential Skills for Aspiring DApp Testers: Your Path to Success

Staking on the TON blockchain can yield competitive returns. While specific rates may vary, platforms often offer attractive Annual Percentage Yields (APY), which can be significantly higher than traditional savings accounts or other investment vehicles.

Staking USDT on TON typically involves lower risks compared to staking native tokens like Toncoin. The absence of slashing penalties (which can occur in Proof-of-Stake systems when validators misbehave) further enhances the safety of staked assets.

The TON blockchain supports liquid staking, allowing users to stake their USDT while still retaining liquidity through receipt tokens (Jettons). This means that even while earning rewards, investors can access their funds if needed.

Many platforms that facilitate USDT staking on TON credit interest daily, providing immediate benefits and compounding opportunities for stakers. This frequent accrual can enhance overall returns over time.

There are multiple platforms available for staking USDT on the TON blockchain, each offering different features and benefits, allowing users to choose options that best fit their risk tolerance and investment goals.

In summary, USDT staking on the TON blockchain is profitable due to its stable nature, attractive yields, low risk, and additional benefits such as liquidity and daily interest accrual. These factors make it an appealing choice for investors looking to earn passive income while minimizing exposure to cryptocurrency volatility.
