Highlights:

• Ethereum Developer Proposes 6-Second Block Times to Boost Speed: A proposal by Ethereum’s core developer Barnabé Monnot suggests reducing the network’s slot time from 12 seconds to 6 seconds, potentially doubling the blocks produced.

• ZKSync’s Hourglass: Matter Labs introduced ‘Airbender’, a new prover that generates Ethereum block proofs in 35 seconds, optimizing transaction speeds and costs.

• Norway Proposes Crypto Mining Ban: Norway is considering a ban on new crypto mining centers that utilize energy-intensive proof-of-work systems.

• XRP Ledger Enhancements: With version 2.5.0 of ‘rippled’, RippleX introduces new features including token escrow capabilities and improved transaction processing.

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Further Insights:

1. New Ethereum Proposal: This proposes reducing the slot time, making transactions more efficient.

2. ZKSync Updates: Fast delivery of zero-knowledge proofs ensures reduced transaction fees and enhances usability in various applications.

3. Norwegian Regulatory Movements: The proposed ban aims to conserve resources for more beneficial industries.

4. XRP Ledger’s Advancements: Functionality improvements are aimed at enhancing usability for decentralized exchanges.