Cryptocurrency markets consolidate in second week of October, investors anticipate “Uptober” rally. $11 billion Bitcoin whale returns with $360 million BTC transfer after two months, possibly signaling rotation into Ether. US SEC receives 31 crypto ETF applications, but government shutdown may slow regulatory response. Japan’s new PM may boost crypto economy with refined regulations, positioning country as global hub for crypto companies. Afghanistan internet blackout highlights blockchain decentralization vulnerabilities, Iran faces similar issues. Ethereum sees $10 billion in withdrawals from validator exit queue, but institutional participants replace most in entry queue. DeFi market sees Zcash and Mantle tokens as top gainers, total value locked in DeFi hits record $237 billion.

Read more at Cointelegraph: $11B Bitcoin Whale Returns, DeFi Hits $237B Record: Finance Redefined