Welcome to the OpenSea digest. Let’s look back through the biggest NFT and web3 news of the week.

Coinbase integrates crypto with Apple Pay

Leading U.S. crypto exchange Coinbase announced it will now allow users to buy cryptocurrency through third-party apps using Apple Pay. The new integration, part of Coinbase Onramp, follows Coinbase’s ongoing efforts to make crypto more accessible to mainstream users by giving app makers a way for customers to convert fiat currency into crypto with minimal hassle.

RTFKT announces new chapter

RTFKT, the web3 studio known for its Nike-backed metaverse shoes, announced plans to wind down operations by the end of January 2025.

In a statement, the company highlighted its three-year legacy of developing innovative virtual fashion projects like the Clone X avatar collection created in collaboration with Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami (that basketball legend LeBron James famously wore). 

Before closing, RTFKT will update its website to showcase its projects and honor the spirit of innovation that lives on through the many creators involved in its releases since hitting the scene in 2021.

Seedphrase uses CryptoPunk #8348 as collateral for a $2.75M loan

Seedphrase, a prominent art collector and web3 personality, took out a secured loan of $2.75 million against his personal CryptoPunk profile picture (PFP). CryptoPunk #8348, an NFT from one of Ethereum’s most recognized collections, is noteworthy because it is the only 7-trait CryptoPunk in existence. 

GONDI, a new NFT lending platform, facilitated the on-chain loan, which reportedly has a six-month maturity and 20% interest rate. 

Refik Anadol’s ‘Inner Portrait’ exhibit opens in Istanbul

Celebrated Turkish-American artist Refik Anadol showcased his latest exhibit from Nov. 28 through Dec. 1 at the Atatürk Cultural Center in Istanbul. Created in partnership with Turkish Airlines, “Inner Portrait” explores the cognitive effects of travel by following four individuals as they embark upon new adventures. Known for his AI-driven visual installations, Anadol created the exhibit using large-scale projections that capture the travelers’ neurological responses to the beauty and new experiences surrounding them.

Art Blocks presents ‘Poetics of the Infinite’

Art Blocks, a leading platform for generative art, introduced its latest curated exhibition, “Poetics of the Infinite.” Featuring both physical and digital works by artists Iskra Velitchkova, Lars Wander, and Zach Lieberman, the collection features works exploring the concept of infinity and ephemerality, using various mediums like fragrance, light, ink, and textiles.

Adidas makes first physical drop of NFT collection

Adidas and blockchain fitness app STEPN GO launched a limited-edition physical shoe collection on MOOAR. The drop includes 1,2000 limited-edition pairs of STEPN GO x adidas Ultraboost 5 running shoes, available via raffle and to holders of STEPN Genesis NFTs, which first debuted in April 2024. 

Raffles for the running shoes will take place from December 13 to December 17. There will be four separate drawings, with priority given to STEPN Genesis NFT holders. A STEPN GO rep told OpenSea that “opportunities for broader participation will be provided through a contest on X and two raffles exclusively open to the ALTS by adidas and STEPN Apps communities.”

Winners can claim their shoes between January 6 and January 22. The collection includes four co-branded styles, with colors randomly assigned to winners for a fun surprise.

CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist Kate Barton makes digital fashion debut with SYKY

Luxury digital fashion platform SYKY has partnered with CFDA / Vogue Fashion Fund finalist Kate Barton for its latest Drops series, curated by creative director Nicola Formichetti. 

Launching on Dec. 5, the collection features a reimagined version of Barton’s Pierced Leather Bag in a limited-edition Sky Blue colorway. Constructed from calfskin leather with polished metal accents and Barton’s signature chrome goldfish keychain, the bags will be available for purchase onchain.

Buyers can also experience a digital dressing experience inspired by Barton’s designs, including metallic textures and reflective water elements.

Limited to 20 pieces, the Pierced Leather Bag will be priced at $495 and sold exclusively on syky.com through Jan. 9, 2025.

Animoca Brands backs Igloo Inc.

Web3 venture studio Animoca Brands announced a strategic investment in Igloo Inc., the parent company behind Pudgy Penguins. Igloo and its subsidiary companies develop tools to simplify blockchain gaming applications, currently placing a big focus on Abstract, an Ethereum layer-two network.

According to the press release, Animoca Brands’ subsidiaries The Sandbox and Animoca Brands Japan also participated in the investment agreement, citing its “confidence in the growth potential of Pudgy Penguins.”