TLDR: The S&P 500 added $7.3 trillion since March 30, marking one of the fastest recoveries recorded since 1982. The rally reflects strong investor demand and steady capital inflows across large-cap equities in recent weeks. Crypto observers compared the surge to Bitcoin trends, where rapid recoveries are more commonly seen. The gap in recovery speed [...] The post S&P 500 Hits New All-Time High After $7.3T Surge Since March Market Bottom appeared first on Blockonomi.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz heightens geopolitical tensions, potentially disrupting global oil markets and diplomatic relations. The post Iran closes Strait of Hormuz, casting doubt on US blockade lift appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Trump's claims may influence market dynamics and negotiation strategies, but skepticism persists due to Iran's public denials. The post Trump claims Iran agrees to demands, suspends nuclear program appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The threat to close the Strait of Hormuz could destabilize global oil markets and heighten geopolitical tensions, impacting international trade. The post Iran threatens to close Strait of Hormuz amid ceasefire tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The opening of the Strait of Hormuz has reduced macroeconomic uncertainty, boosting Bitcoin's stability and diminishing downside risks. The post Bitcoin tops $76,000 as Iran opens Strait of Hormuz appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

XRP's bullish SuperTrend suggests potential market optimism, but overcoming key resistance is crucial for sustained upward momentum. The post XRP SuperTrend turns bullish, resistance at $1.5 key for rally appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

In the latest generative AI news, CBS MoneyWatch reported that US households are actively making room in their budgets for AI subscriptions, backed by Bank of America Institute data showing the number of paying AI subscribers has surged 38% from…

Zelensky's warning highlights the potential for broader regional conflict, complicating diplomatic efforts and affecting ceasefire prospects. The post Zelensky warns Russia may draw Belarus into Ukraine war appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's refusal to negotiate with the US suggests prolonged geopolitical tensions, affecting market stability and diplomatic prospects. The post Iran declines new US negotiations, impacting ceasefire markets appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Barrack's advocacy for prosperity over military action may shift regional dynamics, emphasizing diplomacy and economic growth as conflict deterrents. The post US envoy Barrack urges prosperity over military action against Hezbollah appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's actions may ease regional tensions, but sustained peace hinges on broader diplomatic progress, particularly in nuclear negotiations. The post Iran removes sea mines from Strait of Hormuz, commits to keeping it open appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Spartans.com Reaches $40M in Gross Gaming Revenue During Beta While Hyperliquid & Monero Price Forecasts Turn Positive The web-based betting industry is seeing a business truth it was not ready for. Spartans.com, while still in a closed test and not yet open to the whole globe, made $40,000,000 in Gross Gaming Revenue prior to a single day of open work. That is not just a fake number. It is a major trade sign from the site working to become the top online gambling site by the close of 2026.   At the same time, digital money markets are showing big The post Spartans.com Reaches $40M in Gross Gaming Revenue During Beta While Hyperliquid & Monero Price Forecasts Turn Positive appeared first on The Merkle News.

Goldman Sachs filed a registration statement with the SEC on April 14 for the Goldman Sachs Bitcoin Premium Income ETF, the first bitcoin ETF news from the Wall Street giant that proposes directly issuing its own crypto income product rather…

• #bitcoin

Many industry commentators believe one of the tokens was dumped by a developer or another insider.

The announcement impacts market confidence, highlighting geopolitical tensions and the uncertainty of diplomatic resolutions without direct evidence. The post Trump claims Iran to surrender enriched uranium without US ground troops appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The conflicting claims highlight the fragile nature of international negotiations and the potential for market volatility and geopolitical tension. The post Trump claims Iran agrees to uranium concessions, Iran denies appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Increased optimism in Iran peace talks could stabilize regional tensions and impact global markets, though uncertainty remains high. The post Trump cites China’s positive view on Hormuz reopening amid Iran peace talks appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's regime's resilience amid protests suggests a strengthened grip on power, reducing near-term prospects for significant political change. The post Iran regime consolidates power despite protests, odds of collapse fall appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The collaboration could enhance diplomatic channels, potentially stabilizing regional tensions and influencing global geopolitical dynamics. The post Egypt and Pakistan collaborate on US-Iran peace plan, minister confirms appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The prolonged conflict risks destabilizing global energy markets and economic forecasts, with potential late-2026 congressional action. The post US-Iran conflict escalates, formal war declaration unlikely before late 2026 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Hezbollah's stance complicates ceasefire efforts, potentially stalling broader peace negotiations and impacting regional stability. The post Hezbollah’s Safa: No disarmament until Israel meets conditions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Increased tensions in the Strait of Hormuz could strain UK-Iran relations, impacting global trade and prompting strategic military decisions. The post Iran’s control over Hormuz may prompt UK warship deployment by April 30 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The closure heightens geopolitical tensions, impacting global trade and complicating diplomatic efforts for a US-Iran resolution. The post Iran closes Strait of Hormuz, complicating US-Iran deal talks appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Trump's NATO criticism may influence US foreign policy, impacting global alliances and market perceptions of geopolitical stability. The post Trump calls NATO “absolutely useless” for non-involvement in Iran conflict appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

China's diplomatic role in the Iran conflict could reshape global power dynamics, emphasizing its influence in international peace efforts. The post China acts as diplomatic middleman to end Iran war appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

RAVE has now entered the top 20 alts by marked cap after its mind-blowing rally.

• #litecoin
• #bitcoin

The demolitions risk undermining regional stability and could trigger market volatility, affecting investor confidence in the ceasefire's longevity. The post Israeli forces demolish homes in Lebanon, breaching ceasefire agreement appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Potential progress in US-Iran talks could reshape geopolitical dynamics, impacting global security and economic stability significantly. The post Trump hints at progress in US-Iran talks, uranium enrichment deal in focus appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Escalating strikes between Russia and Ukraine heighten geopolitical tensions, impacting crude oil prices and diminishing ceasefire prospects. The post Moscow bombards Ukraine as Kyiv targets Russian oil facilities appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Geopolitical tensions may exacerbate economic instability, influencing energy prices and increasing recession risks, impacting global markets. The post IMF links Middle East conflict to reduced global growth, US recession risk appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

French Finance Minister Roland Lescure has called on European banks to aggressively develop euro-based stablecoins and tokenized deposits to challenge the overwhelming dominance of the U.S. dollar in digital payments. Key Takeaways: Roland Lescure urged EU banks to launch euro stablecoins by 2026 to counter U.S. financial dominance. Tether leads the market with $185 billion, […]

AI advancements are reshaping job markets, emphasizing roles that require social skills and personal branding. The post Alex Imas: AI is reshaping job roles towards social skills, the emergence of AGI marks a pivotal shift, and Claude code enhances AI’s practical applications | Odd Lots appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Robert Dunlap will spend the next two decades in federal prison after a judge handed down a 276-month sentence for his role in a massive crypto fraud. A federal court in Florida issued the ruling following Dunlap’s conviction on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud. Related Reading: Tether Expands Bitcoin Bet, […]

Bitcoin's surge amid easing geopolitical tensions highlights its sensitivity to global events, impacting market confidence and investment strategies. The post Bitcoin rallies to $74K amid cooling Middle East tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz heightens geopolitical tensions, potentially disrupting global oil supply and escalating US-Iran conflicts. The post Iran closes Strait of Hormuz after US maintains blockade appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The sanctions exacerbate U.S.-Iran tensions, complicating diplomatic efforts and reducing the likelihood of imminent sanction relief. The post US sanctions seven Iran-backed militia leaders in Iraq appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's military threats during US talks heighten uncertainty, reducing ceasefire odds and complicating prospects for a swift resolution. The post Iran issues military threats amid US negotiations, impacting ceasefire prospects appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The mixed tanker movements indicate potential easing of tensions but highlight ongoing uncertainty in regional maritime dynamics. The post Eight tankers exit Persian Gulf via Strait of Hormuz, including sanctioned vessels appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Institutional interest in XRP persists despite market skepticism, highlighting potential long-term confidence amid geopolitical tensions. The post ETF clients buy $13.7M XRP, total ETF assets hit $1.1B appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded nearly $1 billion in weekly inflows, their strongest performance in over three months amid improving risk sentiment.

• #bitcoin

TLDR: Global silver deficit expected to rise 15% in 2026, reaching 46M troy ounces amid tightening supply. Since 2021, silver stocks have dropped 762M ounces, reducing liquidity across physical markets. Industrial silver demand is seen falling 3% as global growth slows and geopolitical risks weigh on output. Coin and bar demand expected to rise 18%, [...] The post Global Silver Market Faces Sixth Straight Deficit as Supply Tightness Deepens Into 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.

Schwab's crypto trading could drive gradual adoption, influencing client allocation and prompting regulatory and competitive responses. The post Schwab opens Bitcoin, Ethereum trading to 46M clients with $11.8T in assets appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

Diplomatic progress is possible, but without Iran's cooperation on uranium, the situation remains volatile and speculative. The post Trump claims Iran deal near despite uranium enrichment disputes appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The trade's timing suggests potential insider knowledge, raising regulatory concerns and impacting market confidence amid geopolitical tensions. The post $760M Brent crude short trade precedes Strait of Hormuz de-escalation news appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The IRGC's control claim heightens geopolitical tensions, impacting global oil markets and necessitating close monitoring of military responses. The post IRGC claims control of Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing US blockade appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Diplomatic efforts are crucial as military options are limited, and any breakdown could rapidly impact ceasefire market dynamics. The post Calls for treaty to shut down Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain nuclear site appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Pakistan's role in facilitating US-Iran talks could enhance its diplomatic influence, impacting regional stability and international relations. The post Pakistan prepares for US-Iran peace talks with increased security appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The Democrats' inability to limit Trump's military actions may hinder diplomatic efforts, increasing uncertainty in US-Iran relations. The post Democrats fail to block Trump’s Iran actions, peace deal by April 22 uncertain appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The passage of sanctioned tankers highlights enforcement challenges, suggesting potential erosion of blockade effectiveness over time. The post Sanctioned tankers pass through Strait of Hormuz despite US blockade appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Boyaa's Bitcoin-only focus highlights institutional interest but broader market trends and volatility may influence long-term Bitcoin valuation. The post Boyaa Interactive shifts treasury strategy to focus solely on Bitcoin appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

The EU's military simulations underscore a shift towards self-reliance in defense, reflecting broader uncertainties about US security commitments. The post EU military simulations spotlight NATO withdrawal speculation appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The World project has introduced its "most significant update" to the World ID protocol, positioning the system as a proof of human infrastructure aimed at consumers, businesses, and AI agents. New Architecture The upgrade is based on a shift to an account-based architecture: rotation and support for multiple keys, access recovery, and session management make the protocol suitable for corporate use.  One-time nullifiers are designed to enhance anonymity guarantees, while a new open-source SDK allows any application to act as a World ID authenticator. Simultaneously, the project launched the World ID app, specifically designed for managing and using online identity verification. Initially, the product is available as a public beta version. Project Partners According to World, several consumer platforms have continued to integrate proof of human infrastructure to enhance trust: Tinder — expanded World ID implementation to the US. Verified users receive a badge on their profile and five free Boosts. Previously, the partnership was active in other markets; Zoom — became the first communication platform to integrate Deep Face directly into calls. It provides three-way identity matching: Orb verification, real-time Face Auth selfie, and current video frame; Docusign — document signers confirm through World ID that they are a living person, not a bot; Vercel — integrates human in the loop for AI agent creators and workflows using the company's SDK. Any step in the action chain can require human verification—with full auditing; Okta — plans to launch the Human Principal product, allowing API developers to verify if a real person is behind an agent and apply policies based on this. World ID is a key integration partner; Match Group — implements Razer ID technology based on World ID as a standard for games; Mythical Games — uses user authentication for the gaming economy. Focus on AI Agents World emphasized that the update prepares the infrastructure for a new class of users—AI agents. The protocol will allow verification that each assistant is backed by a unique human, which becomes critical as autonomous systems spread. Back in March, World introduced the AgentKit product for identity verification in the agent internet.

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal is increasing his scrutiny of Binance as new questions emerge about the exchange’s handling of Iran-related transactions.  The Connecticut senator has been pursuing the issue since February, when he first launched a formal inquiry into whether the cryptocurrency exchange violated US and international sanctions involving Iran.  On Friday, April 17, Blumenthal […]

Economic constraints and geopolitical tensions shape market expectations, highlighting the complex interplay between conflict and financial stability. The post Iran-US war declaration market stable amid economic constraints appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The ongoing blockade heightens geopolitical tensions, potentially impacting global oil markets and necessitating diplomatic resolutions. The post Trump maintains Iranian port blockade despite strait reopening appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

TLDR: TRX is now tradable on Binance.US with TRX/USD and TRX/USDT pairs live for U.S.-based users. The listing gives American investors regulated and compliant access to the TRON blockchain network. TRON DAO says the move supports long-term growth by expanding TRX availability on licensed platforms. USDT on TRC20 remains central to TRON’s ecosystem as CEX [...] The post TRX Now Live on Binance.US as TRON DAO Expands Regulated U.S. Market Access appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR: ETH trades between $2,300–$2,400, with momentum near the 100-day EMA, supported by steady ETF inflows. Schwab launches spot ETH trading for retail clients, increasing traditional market access to Ethereum. Ethereum Foundation sees key researcher exits while security alert flags 100+ operatives in Web3 firms. Market sentiment remains bullish at 89%, with ETH holding $2,300 [...] The post Ethereum Holds $2.4K Range as ETF Inflows, Schwab Access Boost Market Activity appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR: LitecoinVM Liteforge testnet recorded over 230,000 transactions within its early launch phase More than 41,000 unique wallets interacted with the testnet, showing strong early engagement The rollout introduces smart contract capabilities to Litecoin’s long-established network BTC_OS integration positions Litecoin within the emerging “Hard Money Web3” framework Litecoin has recorded renewed developer activity following the [...] The post LitecoinVM Testnet Sees 230K Transactions as Developer Activity Reawakens Network appeared first on Blockonomi.

• #litecoin

Ukraine's expanded energy disruption campaign against Russia reduces ceasefire prospects, complicating future negotiations and stability. The post Ukraine strikes Russia’s Port of Vysotsk, widening energy disruption campaign appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The drone strike complicates ceasefire talks, yet market confidence in a resolution suggests traders view it as a temporary disruption. The post Hezbollah drone hits Israeli home amid ceasefire talks appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's threat to close the Strait of Hormuz could escalate tensions, impacting global oil markets and complicating US-Iran diplomatic efforts. The post Iran threatens to close Strait of Hormuz amid Trump talk claims appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Increased military presence in the Strait of Hormuz may heighten regional tensions, impacting trade routes and market stability. The post USS Miguel Keith heads to Strait of Hormuz for mine-clearing operations appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's ability to export oil despite the blockade highlights its resilience and may influence geopolitical dynamics and market expectations. The post Iranian tankers load oil at Kharg Island despite US blockade appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The crackdown highlights the regime's efforts to maintain control, reducing the likelihood of immediate change and impacting market perceptions. The post Iran arrests 127 in crackdown amid regime change speculation appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Pakistan's mediation could stabilize US-Iran relations, potentially easing oil sanctions and impacting global energy markets significantly. The post Pakistan mediates US-Iran talks, Trump oil sanction relief odds rise appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The SEC has sued crypto executive Donald Basile over an alleged $16 million scheme involving false claims about an “insured” Bitcoin Latinum token.

Lebanon's post-truce phase could stabilize regional tensions, boosting investor confidence and fostering diplomatic engagements with Israel. The post Lebanon enters ‘new phase’ post-Israel truce, April 30 ceasefire market jumps appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The rally underscores the regime's resilience, reducing near-term political change expectations and impacting market perceptions of stability. The post Tehran pro-government rally signals regime strength, dampens Reza Pahlavi entry odds appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Morgan Stanley's Bitcoin ETF could drive institutional interest, impacting Bitcoin's market dynamics and regulatory landscape significantly. The post Morgan Stanley launches Bitcoin ETF with Arkham tracking on-chain wallets appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

The Court of Justice of the European Union ruled on Wednesday that EU member states can prohibit specific online gambling services even when operators hold licenses from other EU countries. More critically, the decision means that consumers can sue to reclaim their losses when gambling contracts violate these national bans. Key Takeaways: CJEU ruled in […]

Institutional Bitcoin investments rise as a hedge against geopolitical instability, highlighting its role in diversifying risk amid global tensions. The post BlackRock clients buy $284M in Bitcoin amid Iran-US-Israel tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

Crypto founder Joe McCann’s passport is sitting with Zanzibar police. He isn’t going anywhere until they get answers. Related Reading: X Money’s Crypto Ambitions Draw Fire From Senator Over Security Fears Authorities Hold McCann Pending Autopsy Tanzanian police are questioning McCann, founder of the crypto hedge fund Asymmetric, after his fiancée, Ashly Robinson, 31, died […]

Iran's repression and economic struggles heighten regime instability risks, yet significant unrest or leadership change remains unlikely soon. The post Iran faces increased repression, economic woes post-ceasefire appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Despite the ceasefire, persistent tensions and market skepticism highlight the fragile nature of US-Iran relations and potential conflict risks. The post Iran reopens airspace after ceasefire with US, tensions remain appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Hezbollah's actions risk destabilizing regional peace, potentially leading to increased military tensions and impacting diplomatic efforts. The post Hezbollah force displays in Lebanon threaten Israel ceasefire stability appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Worldcoin (WLD) token fell 13.4% to $0.28 despite World 4.0 launch featuring new integrations with Zoom, Docusign, and Tinder for identity verification. The post Worldcoin (WLD) Plunges 13% After World 4.0 Launch with Major Tech Partnerships appeared first on Blockonomi.

USOIL dumped by double digits within minutes after the announcement.

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz signals potential de-escalation, yet fragile negotiations highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions. The post Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz amid US-brokered ceasefire with Israel, Lebanon appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Market volatility and geopolitical risks heighten as traders anticipate potential diplomatic resolutions or escalations in the region. The post Oil tankers reverse course in Persian Gulf amid Strait of Hormuz tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Intel's strategic moves bolster U.S. semiconductor independence, potentially reshaping global supply chains and market dynamics long-term. The post Intel CEO signs deals with Terafab, Google; acquires 49% stake in Irish fab appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Radev's potential leadership could shift Bulgaria's foreign policy, challenging EU unity on sanctions and military aid to Ukraine. The post Rumen Radev leads polls ahead of Bulgaria’s April 19 election appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Circle (CRCL) introduces USDC Bridge for native cross-chain transfers on 17 EVM blockchains, as $230M class action lawsuit targets CCTP security. The post Circle (CRCL) Stock: New Native USDC Bridge Simplifies Cross-Chain Transfers appeared first on Blockonomi.

The safe passage of oil tankers may indicate easing tensions, but market volatility and geopolitical risks still pose significant uncertainties. The post Oil tankers exit Persian Gulf safely via Strait of Hormuz appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Fidelity's Bitcoin purchase signals strong institutional confidence, potentially driving further investment and influencing market dynamics. The post Fidelity buys $163M in Bitcoin, prediction markets bullish on April prices appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

We compiled the week’s most important cybersecurity news. Ukrainian authorities seized $8.3 million in hackers’ crypto assets. Analysts found a crypto-address–swapping trojan with a sophisticated delivery chain. Kraken faced extortion. The FBI extracted Signal chats after the app was deleted. Ukraine seizes hackers’ crypto assets worth $8.3 million Law enforcement in Ukraine detained a member of an international hacking group that carried out cyberattacks in Europe and the US, according to Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko. Investigators say the perpetrators used malware to steal confidential information and documents to extort ransoms. The proceeds were sent to crypto wallets, then cashed out and laundered in Ukraine — including through purchases of real estate and high-value assets. Estimated losses exceeded $100 million. As part of the investigation, more than 30 searches were conducted and assets worth about $11.1 million were seized, including houses and cars, $1 million in cash and roughly $8.3 million in cryptocurrency. Authorities also identified the whereabouts of an accomplice responsible for laundering the funds. Analysts discover a crypto-address–swapping trojan with a complex delivery Researchers at Kaspersky reported a campaign distributing the ClipBanker trojan, which swaps crypto wallet addresses in the clipboard. The malware masquerades as Proxifier, a utility for routing application traffic through a proxy server used by developers and system administrators. According to analysts, a link to the infected GitHub repository appears near the top of search results on Google and Yandex. The trojan deploys stealthily during Proxifier installation, using a fileless technique that runs code in memory. A scheduled task then launches a registry-based script that points to GitHub. From there, the chain retrieves a file with code, injects it into fontdrvhost.exe and deploys the final payload. Source: Kaspersky Lab. ClipBanker’s core function is to monitor the clipboard for crypto wallet addresses and swap them. Since early 2025, more than 2,000 Kaspersky users — mainly in India and Vietnam — have encountered the threat, the experts said. Kraken faced extortion  Kraken’s chief security officer, Nick Percoco, reported several employee-related incidents after which the crypto exchange’s leadership was subjected to extortion. Kraken Security UpdateWe are currently being extorted by a criminal group threatening to release videos of our internal systems with client data shown if we do not comply with their demands. It’s important to start with the most important points: our systems were never…— Nick Percoco (@c7five) April 13, 2026 The perpetrators threatened to publish company videos that allegedly display exchange users’ data. According to Percoco, Kraken’s infrastructure was not breached and client funds remain safe. He attributed the incident to customer-support staff accessing restricted information without authorization. Users whose data may have been affected were notified. In total, about 2,000 accounts (0.02% of the client base) were impacted. Percoco said that in February 2025 a source alerted the team to a video circulating in criminal circles showing access to customer-support systems. The investigation found that a support agent had been recruited by hackers. A second similar case followed.  Percoco added that the exchange is working with law-enforcement agencies in several jurisdictions and has handed over evidence. The FBI extracted Signal chats after the app was deleted The FBI recovered messages from Signal even though they had been deleted and the app removed from an iPhone, 404 Media reported.  In a court case concerning an attack on an ICE facility in Alvarado, Texas, the FBI submitted deleted Signal messages as evidence. Journalists say federal agents restored the data from push notifications preserved in iOS’s internal database. If Signal’s settings allow message content to appear in lock-screen previews, the text remains stored even after the app is removed.  Signal offers an option to hide content, but Lynette Sharp apparently did not enable it. Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov reacted to the news. He called it “yet another proof” that Secret Chats are the safest way to communicate. Signal representatives confirmed receiving a request from 404 Media but then stopped replying. Apple declined to comment. Obsidian note-taking app used as a trojan backdoor Experts at Elastic Security Labs identified a campaign in which scammers use the Obsidian note-taking app as bait. The final payload is a previously unknown trojan dubbed PHANTOMPULSE. The targets were employees of financial and cryptocurrency organizations. The attack unfolds as follows: Attackers pose as staff at a venture-capital firm. The conversation moves to Telegram, where several “partners” discuss industry services to create an air of legitimacy. The victim is invited to connect to a shared Obsidian cloud vault that purportedly contains a joint analytics dashboard. To execute malicious code, the hackers rely on Obsidian community plugins: Shell Commands (to run commands) and Hider (to conceal activity in the interface). Because third-party plugins are disabled in Obsidian by default, the hackers persuade the victim to enable them. The malicious vault configuration then automatically launches commands. Source: Elastic Security Labs. On Windows, the attack triggers a script that downloads and installs the PHANTOMPULSE malware. Its features include: built with the help of AI; uses the Ethereum blockchain as a Dead Drop Resolver (DDR) to determine the command server’s address by decoding recent transactions of a specific wallet; collects telemetry, executes commands via code injection, takes screenshots, logs activity, can escalate privileges to SYSTEM, and cover its tracks. On Apple systems, the trojan launches an AppleScript and uses Telegram as the DDR, allowing the attackers to rotate domains if discovered. Also on ForkLog: Drift received $127 million from Tether to compensate hack victims. Ledger published a security roadmap for the age of AI agents. Scammers stole $9.5 million via a fake Ledger app in the App Store. The US Department of Justice began payouts to OneCoin victims. Regulators worldwide voiced concern over the capabilities of Anthropic’s new AI model. A hacker hacked the Hyperbridge bridge and minted 1 billion Polkadot tokens. What to read this weekend? Promises, billions raised and harsh reality: in a new feature, ForkLog revisits the evolution of layer-1 blockchains that tried to unseat Ethereum.

Bitcoin surges past $78K to a 10-week high as Iran opens the Strait of Hormuz and Trump announces US-Iran deal is nearly complete. ETF inflows continue. The post Bitcoin (BTC) Surges Past $78K as Iran Reopens Hormuz Strait Amid Peace Talks appeared first on Blockonomi.

• #bitcoin

The reopening reduces immediate oil price volatility but highlights the fragility of geopolitical stability affecting global markets. The post Strait of Hormuz reopens, easing oil supply concerns amid US-Iran tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

XRP holds key 200-week support against Bitcoin as ETF inflows top $1.1 billion and CLARITY Act decision nears, setting up a decisive move that could reshape its Spring 2026 outlook.

• #bitcoin

Iran said seven of Trump's claims made in one hour are all false.

• #bitcoin

The Ketman project, funded by the ETH Rangers program, identified a hundred North Korean IT specialists working in crypto companies under false identities over six months. The ETH Rangers Program has wrapped up and the results speak for themselves: $5.8M+ recovered, 785+ vulnerabilities reported, 100+ DPRK operatives identified, and so much more.A decentralized defence for a decentralized network.Read the full recap 👇— EF Ecosystem Support Program (@EF_ESP) April 16, 2026 The Ethereum Foundation has published a report on the ETH Rangers program—an initiative launched at the end of 2024 to fund independent researchers focused on ecosystem security. One of the scholarship recipients allocated funds to create the Ketman project, specializing in identifying "fake developers" in the crypto industry. Researchers concentrated on operations supported by North Korea. North Korean IT specialists have been infiltrating Web3 companies under fake identities for years, earning salaries while simultaneously conducting reconnaissance and potentially accessing project infrastructure. The notorious Lazarus Group is behind the most prominent operations. In six months, the Ketman team documented 100 DPRK operatives actively working within Web3 organizations and notified 53 projects that they likely employ active agents. According to materials posted on the Ketman website, experts focused on identified traits of "tactics, behavior, and operational models" typical of North Korean IT operatives, including: repeated use of avatars and profile metadata across multiple GitHub accounts under different names; accidental disclosure of unrelated email addresses during screen sharing in calls; system language settings that contradict claimed citizenship—such as Russian or others; specific communication behavior patterns and atypical working hours for the stated time zone. The methodology for detecting DPRK agents in the project and Ethereum Foundation was not disclosed in detail. In addition to investigative work, Ketman developed an open-source tool for automatically detecting suspicious activity on GitHub. Together with the non-profit Security Alliance, an industry verification standard was created—a framework for identifying North Korean IT workers during hiring. “This work directly addresses one of the most acute operational security threats facing the Ethereum ecosystem today,” states the Ethereum Foundation report on the ETH Rangers outcomes. As part of the initiative, the foundation supported 17 scholars in total. Their activities ranged widely, from researching vulnerabilities and security tools to education, threat analysis, and incident response. Earlier, on April 1, the DeFi platform Drift Protocol on Solana was hacked for $280 million. According to findings by the project team and cybersecurity experts, North Korean hackers were behind the attack.

The potential agreement could stabilize regional tensions, but without a uranium deal, the ceasefire's durability remains uncertain. The post Iran hopeful for preliminary agreement with US to extend ceasefire appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Ethereum is pushing against the $2,400 level but has not been able to close above it, caught in a market that is heating up around it, while the price action remains tentative. The broader environment is increasingly constructive, but ETH is still navigating the lingering effects of the correction that defined the first quarter of […]

Continued Russian military actions diminish prospects for peace, potentially prolonging conflict and impacting geopolitical stability. The post Russian military operations continue, ceasefire by April 30 unlikely appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Increased political strain on Trump may shift market dynamics, potentially affecting GOP support and influencing future electoral outcomes. The post Trump faces increased pressure after inconclusive Iran engagement appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Anthropic's valuation surge highlights the growing strategic importance of AI in national security, potentially reshaping global tech dynamics. The post Anthropic valuation hits $800B amid US strategic asset recognition appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The growing preference for Bitcoin over gold among Americans highlights shifting investment trends, yet price recovery confidence remains low. The post Americans own more Bitcoin than gold, 50M holders surpass 37M gold owners appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

The distribution failure raises concerns about election integrity, potentially affecting voter turnout and altering political dynamics. The post ONPE distribution failure impacts Lima polling stations during election appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The USDC Bridge adds to Circle's Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol, which often sees over $500 million worth of USDC transfers each day.

The potential resolution of US-Iran tensions could stabilize geopolitical risks, but ongoing disruptions may keep oil prices volatile. The post Traders see US-Iran conflict resolution, oil prices hit $90 amid disruptions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

TLDR: Claude Design enables users to create prototypes, slides, and documents using simple text prompts, reducing manual design work Figma and Adobe shares declined following the launch, reflecting investor concern over AI replacing core SaaS features The tool supports exports to Canva, PDF, and PowerPoint, streamlining workflows across design and presentation platforms Multiple AI labs [...] The post Anthropic’s Claude Design Triggers Market Reaction as Figma and Adobe Stocks Slip appeared first on Blockonomi.