ASTR and Major Crypto Token Unlock Updates: Key Market Movements in 2025

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The cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with critical developments shaping market sentiment and investor strategies. From major token unlocks to exchange closures and regional crypto-friendly rankings, this article breaks down the most impactful updates across the digital asset ecosystem—especially focusing on Astar (ASTR), Arbitrum (ARB), and other high-profile projects preparing for significant token releases.

Major Token Unlocks Scheduled for Next Week

One of the most closely watched aspects in the crypto market is token unlocking, which can influence price volatility, liquidity, and investor confidence. Upcoming unlocks across several leading blockchain ecosystems are drawing attention from traders and long-term holders alike.

Arbitrum (ARB): Largest Unlock by Value

As one of the top Ethereum Layer 2 solutions, Arbitrum's unlock could temporarily pressure its price due to potential sell-off risks. However, given its strong developer activity and ecosystem growth, many analysts believe any downward movement may be short-lived.

👉 Discover how Layer 2 platforms are transforming blockchain scalability.

Axie Infinity (AXS) and Eigenlayer (EIGEN) Follow Closely

Both projects have seen growing traction—Eigenlayer in restaking innovation and Axie Infinity in reviving its play-to-earn model—making these unlocks pivotal moments for community sentiment.

Starknet, Taiko, and Astar Among Notable Mentions

Astar Network (ASTR): Modest Unlock, Strong Ecosystem Focus

Despite the relatively small unlock size, Astar remains a key player in the Polkadot ecosystem, focusing on Web3 gaming and decentralized applications. Its minimal dilution effect suggests less downward pressure compared to peers.

Fairdesk Exchange to Cease Operations by End of 2025

In a significant development for derivatives traders, Fairdesk, a Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange, has announced it will fully shut down services by November 30, 2025.

The decision comes amid tightening regulatory scrutiny across Asia and North America. Since its launch in 2021, Fairdesk served users in the U.S. and Canada but cited evolving compliance requirements as the primary reason for closure.

Key Timeline for Users:

Users are urged to act promptly to avoid loss of access to funds. This event highlights the growing importance of regulatory preparedness in the crypto exchange space.

Top Countries for Crypto Business in 2025

A recent report ranks the most favorable jurisdictions for cryptocurrency businesses based on regulatory clarity, tax policies, and infrastructure support.

Top 3 Crypto-Friendly Regions:

  1. Dubai – Leads with clear regulations, no capital gains tax, competitive corporate tax rate (9%), and affordable licensing.
  2. Switzerland – Home to over 900 registered crypto firms; offers favorable capital gains treatment (7.8% for long-term investors).
  3. South Korea – Strong institutional adoption, advanced fintech integration, and proactive blockchain policy frameworks.

Other notable entries include Singapore, the U.S., Estonia, and Brazil—all demonstrating progressive approaches to digital asset innovation.

These rankings provide valuable insights for startups and investors evaluating where to establish operations or allocate capital.

Google Search Trends: Bitcoin Fades While Memecoins Surge

Market interest often precedes price action—and recent data shows a notable shift in public curiosity.

Declining Interest in "Bitcoin"

As of mid-October 2025, global Google search volume for “Bitcoin” hit its lowest level in a year, scoring just 33 out of 100 on Google Trends. This reflects a temporary lull in retail engagement despite strong on-chain fundamentals.

Rising Popularity of "Memecoins"

Conversely, searches for “memecoins” spiked to 77, nearing the all-time high of 100 recorded in late 2023. CryptoQuant CEO Ki Young Ju predicts that memecoin interest could rebound to peak levels by the end of October.

This trend underscores the persistent appeal of community-driven tokens, even during broader market consolidations.

NFT Market Dips Amid Declining Participation

The NFT sector experienced another setback last week:

Chain Breakdown:

While overall activity declines, Bitcoin-based NFTs continue gaining momentum thanks to renewed interest in digital artifacts and BRC-20 tokens.

Security Alert: Zulu Network X Account Hacked

Bitcoin Layer 2 protocol Zulu Network fell victim to a social engineering attack when its official X (formerly Twitter) account was compromised.

The hacker posted phishing links aimed at stealing user wallets. Fortunately, the team acted quickly to regain control and warn followers.

This incident reinforces the need for robust social media security and user vigilance—especially during project announcements or airdrops.

👉 Learn how to protect your crypto assets from phishing scams.

FAQ: Common Questions About Token Unlocks and Market Trends

Q: Why do token unlocks affect cryptocurrency prices?
A: Large unlocks increase circulating supply, potentially leading to selling pressure if recipients liquidate their holdings. However, if the project has strong fundamentals, price impacts may be temporary.

Q: Is the Astar (ASTR) unlock likely to cause a price drop?
A: Given the small unlock size (only 0.13% of circulating supply), significant downward pressure is unlikely. The impact will depend more on overall market conditions and ecosystem developments.

Q: What should I do if I hold tokens scheduled for unlock?
A: Monitor project communications, assess vesting schedules, and consider risk management strategies like dollar-cost averaging or setting stop-loss orders.

Q: How can I stay safe from social media scams like the Zulu hack?
A: Always verify official links through project websites or trusted community channels. Never click on unsolicited DMs or suspicious posts—even if they appear to come from verified accounts.

Q: Why are memecoins gaining search popularity while Bitcoin fades?
A: Memecoins often gain traction through viral social media campaigns and celebrity endorsements, attracting short-term traders. Bitcoin’s lower search volume doesn’t necessarily reflect weakness—it may indicate a maturing asset with stable long-term holders.

Q: Which countries are safest for launching a crypto business?
A: Dubai, Switzerland, and Singapore stand out due to clear regulations, tax incentives, and supportive government policies—making them ideal hubs for compliant innovation.

Final Thoughts: Navigating Volatility with Informed Decisions

With major token unlocks, exchange closures, and shifting user behavior, the crypto market demands vigilance and strategic thinking. Projects like Astar, Arbitrum, and Eigenlayer face pivotal moments that could shape their trajectory in late 2025.

Whether you're an investor, trader, or builder, staying informed about unlocks, regulatory shifts, and global trends is essential for long-term success.

👉 Stay ahead of market movements with real-time data and secure trading tools.

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