TLDR: April 2026 recorded $606M in losses across 12 exploits, surpassing total Q1 losses by 3.7x. Social engineering led the largest breach, with Drift Protocol losing $285M in a 12-minute attack. Kelp DAO hack drained $293M via a bridge flaw, marking 2026’s largest DeFi exploit so far. Cross-chain risks surged as Aave absorbed $177M in [...] The post $606 Million Lost: April 2026 Becomes the Worst Month for Crypto Exploits appeared first on Blockonomi.

Elon Musk acquired $1.4B in SpaceX stock from employees before IPO. New compensation plan could award him 60M shares tied to $6.6T market cap target. The post Musk Acquires $1.4B Worth of SpaceX Shares Before Planned IPO appeared first on Blockonomi.

Researcher Doyeon Park drops a high‑severity CometBFT zero‑day that can stall Cosmos chains securing $8B, spotlighting disclosure gaps in core crypto infrastructure. A critical zero‑day vulnerability in Cosmos’ CometBFT consensus layer has been publicly disclosed by security researcher Doyeon Park,…

Doordash is planning to give its delivery drivers the option to receive payments in stablecoins through Tempo, a payments-focused blockchain developed by Stripe and Paradigm. Key Takeaways: The Information reports Doordash plans to pay its Dasher drivers in stablecoins via the Tempo blockchain, built by Stripe and Paradigm. Tempo raised $500 million in October 2025 […]

The resumption of Urals crude shipments eases market pressures, but ongoing conflict risks future disruptions and price volatility. The post Russia resumes Urals crude shipments after drone strike disruptions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Social media's influence on geopolitical tensions could destabilize economic policy, heightening recession risks and market volatility. The post Goldman CEO warns Iran conflict’s social media impact may raise US recession risk appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Bitcoin remains the dominant crypto holding and preferred investment among traditional assets.

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A consortium of 12 European banks, led by Qivalis, has selected the Fireblocks platform to launch a stablecoin pegged to the euro. The project is being developed in accordance with the MiCA regulation, reports Cointelegraph. The group includes major financial institutions such as BBVA, BNP Paribas, ING, and UniCredit. Fireblocks will provide technology for tokenization, wallets, and compliance tools, including identity verification and sanctions screening. The new coin is aimed at institutional clients and is intended for use in settlements, capital management, and working with tokenized assets. The stablecoin will be fully reserved and will receive the status of electronic money under the supervision of the Dutch Central Bank. The launch is scheduled for the second half of 2026. The initiative aims to reduce the dominance of dollar-pegged stablecoins. According to DeFiLlama, the market capitalization of the segment exceeds $320 billion, with 99% of the supply tied to US dollar assets. Source: DeFiLlama. Fireblocks' Chief Strategy Officer, Stephen Richardson, noted that the project will become a regulated tool for European companies, replacing less reliable alternatives. Back in April, the Bank for International Settlements warned that many dollar stablecoins function more as investment instruments than as a means of payment.

Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon warns oil could hit $80-$100/barrel soon, or $170 if Iran conflict escalates. Hormuz Strait remains largely closed. The post Goldman Sachs CEO Warns Oil Prices Could Surge to $170 Amid Iran Tensions appeared first on Blockonomi.

North Korea’s Lazarus Group is preliminarily attributed with draining approximately $292 million in rsETH from KelpDAO on April 18, 2026. The state-backed hacking entity has been responsible for billions of dollars stolen from the crypto industry over the last few years. Key Takeaways: Lazarus Group drained 116,500 rsETH from KelpDAO on April 18. The Arbitrum […]

The potential end of the US-Iran ceasefire could heighten geopolitical tensions, impacting global oil markets and economic stability. The post US-Iran ceasefire nears end, traders wary of oil supply disruption appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The escalating tensions risk destabilizing the region, potentially disrupting global oil markets and impacting international diplomacy. The post Trump accuses Iran of breaching ceasefire ahead of high-stakes Hormuz deadline appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Trump's Twitter stance may undermine diplomatic efforts, increasing volatility in US-Iran relations and impacting future peace negotiations. The post Trump’s Twitter opposition impacts US-Iran ceasefire extension prospects appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Cardano price rallied nearly 12% last week before stabilizing around $0.25 on Tuesday. Now it is close to confirming a bullish reversal pattern on the charts that could position it for more upside in the coming sessions. According to data…

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Trump's tariff strategy shift may provoke EU retaliation, impacting international trade dynamics and increasing market volatility. The post Trump shifts tariff strategy, praises Amazon and Apple appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Stock futures gain Tuesday on Iran ceasefire optimism, Apple CEO transition, and Bitcoin nearing $76K. Markets digest geopolitical and corporate developments. The post U.S. Stock Futures Advance on Iran Diplomacy Progress and Bitcoin Rally to $76K appeared first on Blockonomi.

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The collaboration enhances trust in AI financial systems by ensuring verifiable accountability, crucial for widespread adoption and regulatory compliance. The post W3.io teams with Space and Time to deliver end-to-end proof layer for AI-driven financial workflows appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Increased tensions could destabilize regional geopolitics, impacting global markets and diplomatic relations, while war remains unlikely. The post Trump hints at airstrikes on Iran after seizing ship with Chinese “gifts” appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Bitcoin Magazine Onramp Launches Finance Platform Combining Cash, Bitcoin and Gold in One Account Onramp launched a unified platform today combining cash management, bitcoin services, and gold ownership into a single account aimed at long-term wealth building. This post Onramp Launches Finance Platform Combining Cash, Bitcoin and Gold in One Account first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

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AXT (AXTI) stock falls 12% premarket after announcing $550M offering at $64.25/share to expand indium phosphide production capacity in Beijing facility. The post AXT (AXTI) Stock Tumbles 12% Following $550M Share Offering Announcement appeared first on Blockonomi.

Potential easing of oil sanctions could reshape geopolitical dynamics, impacting global oil markets and influencing US-Iran relations. The post Trump anticipates ‘great deal’ with Iran, eyes oil sanction relief appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Trump's aggressive Iran policy stance may lead to prolonged geopolitical tensions, impacting global oil markets and diplomatic relations. The post Trump’s hardline Iran stance dims hopes for oil sanction relief appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Rising U.S.-China tensions could impact diplomatic relations and market stability, potentially altering Trump's visit plans and investor confidence. The post Trump links seized ship to China, casting doubt on planned visit appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Geopolitical tensions highlight Bitcoin's vulnerability to external shocks, potentially affecting its long-term growth and market stability. The post Bitcoin falls below $76,000 as Trump warns of Iran attacks appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Most XRP investors are back in profit, increasing the chance for a rally to $2.24, but bulls must first hold the price above $1.40.

The Aave rsETH/wrsETH market froze abruptly, leading to a rapid series of withdrawals, including one notable exit tied to a wallet connected with Justin Sun. And this whopper of a withdrawal highlighted both the speed and weaknesses that come along with DeFi (decentralized finance), just minutes after the platform ceased trade. On April 18 at exactly 18:52 UTC, Aave froze the relevant market, starting a string of events. Just 21 minutes after the first transaction, activity was detected at an address dubbed HTX: Recovery, known to have ties with Sun’s team, which suggested a quick and organized withdrawal effort. The The post Aave Freeze Sparks Immediate Exit of $274M appeared first on The Merkle News.

Equifax (EFX) beats Q1 estimates with $1.86 EPS and $1.65B revenue, but Iran conflict rate spike forces cautious full-year guidance on mortgage market. The post Equifax (EFX) Stock Holds Steady as Iran Tensions Cloud Mortgage Market Despite Q1 Beat appeared first on Blockonomi.

GE Aerospace (GE) stock dropped 3.5% despite beating Q1 earnings estimates as rising jet fuel costs and lower flight growth outlook concerned investors. The post Why GE Aerospace (GE) Stock Tumbled Despite Crushing Q1 Earnings Expectations appeared first on Blockonomi.

Extreme fear surrounds AAVE after exploit-driven outflows, but whale order clusters historically linked to market bottoms are reappearing.

The Salam-Macron talks could influence regional stability, impacting diplomatic dynamics and potential ceasefire agreements in the Middle East. The post Lebanon PM, Macron to discuss strategy ahead of Israel talks appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The rising confidence in USDai's CALIBER protocol highlights growing interest in blockchain-based AI financing, potentially reshaping investment landscapes. The post USDai’s CALIBER protocol bets on $300M valuation post-launch appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

A falling VIX signals improving risk appetite, boosting Bitcoin’s chances of attracting fresh demand and breaking above the $80,000 level.

• #bitcoin

Philippine SEC targets dYdX and six other crypto platforms for unauthorized operations, intensifying crackdown on unlicensed digital asset providers. The post Philippines Securities Regulator Targets dYdX and Six Other Crypto Platforms appeared first on Blockonomi.

Nvidia (NVDA) stock rises 0.3% toward record highs as Google unveils new TPUs. KeyBanc analyst cites CUDA advantage with $275 target. Analysis inside. The post Nvidia (NVDA) Stock Approaches All-Time High as Google Launches AI Chip Offensive appeared first on Blockonomi.

The UK's regulatory embrace of stablecoins could enhance their legitimacy, potentially stabilizing markets and reducing depegging concerns. The post UK Treasury to integrate stablecoins into payments framework appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Ternus' appointment as CEO may accelerate Apple's product innovation, potentially altering its market position and competitive dynamics. The post John Ternus to succeed Tim Cook as Apple’s CEO, signaling strategic shift appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

A significant rise in oil prices could strain global economies, impact inflation rates, and alter geopolitical dynamics, affecting energy policies. The post Goldman CEO: Iran conflict could drive oil to $170 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Strategy CEO Le prioritizes per-share yield over Bitcoin price, XRP eyes $1.9 breakout as SuperTrend flips bullish. Plus, Kelp DAO hacker shifts $292 million to BTC as Arbitrum freezes $71 million of stolen ETH.

• #bitcoin

Gold dropped 0.8% Tuesday as the US-Iran ceasefire nears expiration and Kevin Warsh undergoes Senate confirmation hearings for Federal Reserve Chair. The post Gold Dips Below $4,800 as US-Iran Truce Deadline Approaches and Warsh Testifies appeared first on Blockonomi.

Hims & Hers (HIMS) stock jumped 49% in five days after FDA announced peptide review and company settled dispute with Novo Nordisk over Wegovy distribution. The post Hims & Hers (HIMS) Stock Rockets Nearly 50% Following FDA Peptide News and Novo Partnership appeared first on Blockonomi.

Apple (AAPL) stock edges lower after Tim Cook announces Sept 2026 CEO departure. John Ternus to take helm. Wedbush maintains Buy rating at $350 target. The post Apple (AAPL) Stock: Tim Cook to Exit CEO Role in 2026, John Ternus Named Successor appeared first on Blockonomi.

European banks partner with Fireblocks to launch Qivalis euro stablecoin in 2026, targeting MiCA compliance and challenging dollar-backed token dominance. The post Fireblocks Powers Qivalis Euro Stablecoin Initiative Backed by Major European Banks appeared first on Blockonomi.

When crypto markets get busy, slow execution becomes more than an inconvenience. It changes prices, fills, and trust. That is why many readers looking through the best crypto presales now pay close attention to trading infrastructure, not just token buzz. TradeView enters that discussion with a high-speed matching engine and platform tools built around execution. [...] The post Best Crypto Presale Picks Right Now: TradeView’s High-Speed Matching Engine and Trading Tools Explained appeared first on Blockonomi.

UnitedHealth (UNH) stock surges 5.7% after Q1 EPS of $7.23 crushes estimates. Full-year guidance raised to over $18.25 on improved medical cost ratio. The post UnitedHealth (UNH) Stock Soars 6% Following Blowout Q1 Earnings Report appeared first on Blockonomi.

Goldman Sachs predicts S&P 500 will reach 7,600, but consumer confidence collapses to record low as gas prices surge 40%. Analysis inside. The post Goldman Sachs Projects S&P 500 Rally to 7,600 Amid Historic Consumer Confidence Collapse appeared first on Blockonomi.

The US-Iran tensions highlight the fragility of diplomatic efforts and the potential for regional instability affecting global markets. The post US-Iran ceasefire talks in Pakistan as tensions rise with naval incident appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's move heightens geopolitical tensions, potentially disrupting global oil supply and prompting international diplomatic maneuvers. The post Iran closes Strait of Hormuz amid rising US tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The scam messages highlight the potential for misinformation to disrupt maritime security and influence market perceptions without concrete actions. The post Scam messages falsely offer safe transit through Strait of Hormuz, security firm warns appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could lead to volatile energy markets, impacting global economic stability and energy security. The post Halliburton earnings hit by Iran conflict, crude oil price expectations rise appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Saylor's Bitcoin investment underscores institutional confidence in crypto stability amid geopolitical tensions, influencing market dynamics. The post Saylor’s $2.5B Bitcoin buy aligns with US-Iran peace talks collapse appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

Bitcoin rally boosts altcoin sentiment as BlockchainFX nears final presale milestone. Bitcoin’s latest advance is beginning to reshape sentiment across the digital asset market.That matters beyond Bitcoin itself. Historically, a Bitcoin breakout tends to revive demand for altcoins by drawing…

• #litecoin
• #bitcoin

Securitize named former IMF representative Sunil Sabharwal to its board as the tokenization firm pursues a public listing.

Over the last two weeks, RaveDao (RAVE) burst into the crypto scene in a rapid price surge and a trajectory that led many in the community to call it a blatant market manipulation from insiders. In less than two weeks, the RAVE price had risen by more than 5,000%, with its fully diluted value reaching […]

A Dune Analytics report shows that nearly half of Layerzero applications rely on the lowest level of DVN security. The findings raise concerns about cross-chain risk following recent exploits. Most Layerzero OApps Rely on Basic DVN Security Configurations Nearly half of applications built on Layerzero are operating with the lowest level of security configuration, according […]

Stalled US-Iran negotiations could heighten geopolitical tensions, impacting global oil markets and delaying regional peace efforts. The post US-Iran deal stalled by nuclear, Strait of Hormuz disputes as deadline nears appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Increased readiness for combat heightens geopolitical tensions, reducing chances for diplomatic resolution and impacting market predictions. The post US ready for major combat operations against Iran, says General Caine appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Potential escalation in Lebanon could disrupt regional stability, but markets remain steady, indicating skepticism about immediate conflict. The post Lebanon warns of resistance if Israeli forces remain, ceasefire markets steady appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The potential acceleration of Ukraine's loan package could shift EU dynamics and impact geopolitical stability, influencing ceasefire prospects. The post EU diplomat hints at breakthrough on Ukraine’s €90B loan package appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's absence from talks heightens geopolitical tensions, reducing optimism for diplomatic breakthroughs and impacting market stability. The post Iran skips talks as ceasefire deadline nears, US-Iran meeting unlikely by April 30 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The intensified negotiations could significantly impact global oil markets and geopolitical stability, depending on the deal's outcome. The post Trump-Iran oil sanction deal talks intensify as ceasefire deadline looms appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The US-Iran talks in Islamabad could reshape geopolitical dynamics, influencing market expectations and diplomatic strategies globally. The post US and Iran confirm attendance at Islamabad ceasefire talks appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Israel's warning suggests a hardline stance, reducing confidence in a ceasefire endorsement and highlighting regional instability risks. The post Israel warns South Lebanon residents, impacting Trump ceasefire market appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's threat signals a shift from diplomacy, reducing immediate peace prospects and impacting market expectations for a resolution timeline. The post Iran threatens ‘new cards’ as US-Iran ceasefire nears expiration appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Binance's listing of CHIP could enhance USD.AI's market position, potentially driving significant investment and influencing crypto market trends. The post Binance lists CHIP token for USD.AI, boosting market confidence appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

US procurement rules may limit Anthropic's competitive edge, impacting its market position and highlighting geopolitical tech tensions. The post US procurement rules may hinder Anthropic’s AI model ranking prospects appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Amazon has confirmed a new $5 billion investment in Anthropic this Monday to deepen its ties with the startup behind the Claude artificial intelligence models, as demand for AI infrastructure continues to rise. According to a recent report, the latest…

Institutional adoption and ETF inflows could drive Bitcoin's price surge, impacting global financial strategies and market confidence. The post Bitcoin $80K target odds rise as BlackRock ETF sees $8.4B inflows appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Massive buybacks may stabilize equities amid geopolitical tensions, but institutional strategies and regulatory shifts will influence outcomes. The post US banks authorize $33B in buybacks amid $1.2T S&P 500 trend appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Institutional adoption of tokenized funds on Ethereum could accelerate blockchain integration, impacting crypto valuations and market dynamics. The post Tokenized funds hit $30B as JP Morgan, BlackRock drive Ethereum growth appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Pi Network will be heavily involved at Consensus 2026: check out how.

Bitcoin's stability amid geopolitical and monetary uncertainties highlights its role as a hedge against global market volatility. The post Bitcoin holds above $75K amid US-Iran ceasefire and Fed chair hearing appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

The suppression of protests in Iran underscores the regime's control, diminishing prospects for political change and impacting market predictions. The post Iranian forces suppress Mashhad protests, impacting Pahlavi return odds appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Ukraine's strikes on Russian refineries could tighten global oil supply, impacting prices and potentially affecting Russia's war funding. The post Ukraine targets Russia’s Tuapse refinery with drones for second time in a week appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Saylor's Bitcoin purchase underscores its role as a hedge, potentially stabilizing perceptions amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties. The post Michael Saylor’s $2.5B Bitcoin buy boosts market sentiment amid US-Iran tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Institutional Bitcoin accumulation trends suggest market stability, but thin trading volumes could lead to misleading price signals. The post Strategy surpasses BlackRock as largest Bitcoin holder with 815,061 BTC appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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The assassinations risk escalating regional instability and could lead to Iranian scientists selling expertise, further complicating diplomacy. The post US and Israel assassinations of Iranian scientists heighten nuclear tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The denial of talks and end of the ceasefire heighten tensions, reducing prospects for diplomacy and increasing the risk of conflict escalation. The post Iran denies delegation in Pakistan for US talks as ceasefire ends appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Solana's dominance in tokenized stock trading could reshape market dynamics, attracting institutional interest and influencing regulatory perspectives. The post Solana leads tokenized stock trading volume, eyes $110 target by April 18 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

RTX stock rallies 3% after beating Q1 estimates with $1.78 EPS and $22.1B revenue. Company raises 2026 guidance amid strong defense and aerospace demand. The post RTX (RTX) Stock Surges 3% Following Stellar First Quarter Performance appeared first on Blockonomi.

Northrop Grumman (NOC) reported Q1 EPS of $6.14, topping forecasts, with revenue climbing 4% YoY. Stock declined 1.6% as guidance stayed unchanged. The post Northrop Grumman (NOC) Stock Dips 1.6% Despite Strong Q1 Earnings Performance appeared first on Blockonomi.

David Schwartz said RLUSD can support settlement use cases but is not neutral because Ripple can freeze and claw back tokens.

The crackdown highlights the regime's resilience, but skepticism about its long-term stability persists amid potential internal fractures. The post Iran quashes 2026 uprising with massive crackdown in two nights appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The U.S. military's expanded operations could heighten geopolitical tensions, impacting global oil markets and regional stability. The post US military boards Iran-linked tanker in Indo-Pacific expansion appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Port Vila, Vanuatu, 21st April 2026, Chainwire

The Kelp DAO attacker has moved $175 million of stolen Ether in an apparent bid to start laundering it after the $290 million exploit.

BitMEX has partnered with Zodia Custody to enable institutional crypto derivatives trading via off-exchange collateral held in segregated custody.

US Congressional candidate Alex Bores has proposed an 'AI Dividends' program. The initiative suggests direct payments to citizens if automation leads to mass layoffs. Today, I’m proud to announce the AI Dividend, my plan to prepare for the AI economy with direct payments to Americans funded by tax reform that simultaneously incentivizes hiring humans instead of AI.Read the full plan here: https://t.co/sE1OuM8AlT pic.twitter.com/uoRiyIU9Me— Alex Bores (@AlexBores) April 20, 2026 Bores relies on expert forecasts suggesting that artificial intelligence could replace up to 50% of jobs, with entry-level positions being the most vulnerable.  The program would be triggered automatically upon reaching certain economic indicators: prolonged decline in employment levels;  decrease in wages in specific sectors;  increase in AI productivity without the creation of new jobs. In addition to payments, the project includes funding for retraining courses and increased oversight of technologies. The amounts and frequency of disbursements are not yet specified in the document.  To fund the initiative, Bores proposed several mechanisms:  a tax on the use of AI tokens;  the state's right to purchase shares in AI companies at a discount;  tax reforms. The author of the initiative believes these mechanisms should be implemented before a narrow circle of companies accumulates excessive profits through automation. In his view, it will be much harder to change the system after large-scale displacement of people from the labor market.  Earlier in April, Oracle began laying off thousands of employees amid falling stock prices and significant capital expenditures on AI infrastructure.

Qualcomm (QCOM) rallies nine days straight but remains down 20% in 2026. DRAM shortages, analyst downgrades, and weak handset demand cloud the outlook. The post Qualcomm (QCOM) Extends Rally to Nine Days — Is the Bottom In? appeared first on Blockonomi.

OCBC Bank launches GOLDX tokenized gold fund on Ethereum and Solana, merging physical gold investments with blockchain technology and digital settlement. The post OCBC Introduces GOLDX: Blockchain-Backed Gold Fund on Ethereum and Solana appeared first on Blockonomi.

Increased U.S. interdictions may prolong disruptions in maritime traffic, impacting market odds and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific. The post US forces board Iran-linked tanker M/T Tifani in Indo-Pacific crackdown appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Zelensky's criticism highlights diplomatic tensions, potentially delaying peace efforts and reducing confidence in a near-term ceasefire. The post Zelensky criticizes US envoys for Moscow focus, calls absence in Kyiv ‘disrespectful’ appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Bitcoin's surge reflects increased institutional confidence and geopolitical stability, but market volatility remains a significant risk. The post Bitcoin hits $76,720 after Strategy’s $2.5B buy, US-Iran tensions ease appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

• #bitcoin

The market might not be ready for a proper recovery, but activity around Shiba Inu is certainly recovering.

TLDR: RedotPay is among the first crypto card providers to support Native USDC on Sui’s blockchain network. Users in 100+ countries can now spend SUI and USDC-Sui at over 130 million merchants worldwide. RedotPay processes over $10 billion in annualized payment volume as recorded in November 2025. Mysten Labs built Sui’s payment infrastructure to move [...] The post RedotPay Integrates SUI and USDC-Sui to Power Stablecoin Payments Across 100+ Countries appeared first on Blockonomi.

BYDFi marks rapid global growth with 1M users and multiple industry recognitions.  Overview Website https://www.bydfi.com Founded 2020 Sector Hybrid crypto exchange (CEX + DEX) Registered Users 1,000,000+ Countries 190+ Spot Trading Pairs 1,000+ Derivatives Pairs 500+ Maximum Leverage 200x KYC…

Iran's potential absence from talks could stall diplomatic progress, heightening regional tensions and impacting global geopolitical stability. The post Iran may skip US talks in Islamabad amid naval blockade tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Unknown individuals are impersonating Iranian authorities, offering ships safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for payment in Bitcoin or USDT. The Greek maritime risk management company Marksis has warned of this new scheme, reports Reuters.  Experts examined one of the messages sent by the fraudsters to shipping companies. It stated that companies should first provide documents for verification by Iran's security service.  Subsequently, a transit fee must be paid in cryptocurrency. This supposedly allows for an "unimpeded crossing at a pre-agreed time," according to Marksis.  At least one vessel may have fallen victim to the scam. It attempted to leave Hormuz on April 18 but came under fire.  Strait of Hormuz Remains Closed   Earlier this month, journalists from the Financial Times, citing oil exporters, reported that Iran intends to demand payment in cryptocurrency from shipping companies for passage through the strait. No official confirmations followed.  Later, experts described Tehran's plans as "virtually unfeasible." They pointed to the ongoing sanctions against the country and the transparency of the blockchain, which could pose problems for Western-registered firms.  On April 17, Iranian authorities announced the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, the situation changed a few days later: U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to destroy all power plants and bridges in Iran if negotiations failed.  In response, the other side indicated it might skip a second round of talks while the United States maintains a naval blockade.  The next meeting between U.S. and Iranian representatives is scheduled for April 22, reports Axios. However, the situation remains unstable due to ongoing threats from both countries.  Experts from Bitwise stated that the conflict in the Middle East has brought Bitcoin closer to becoming a real means of settlement.

• #bitcoin

TLDR Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz sent Bitcoin up 4%, wiping out $593M in short positions Iran then reimposed controls, reversing the move and pushing Bitcoin to $74,335 Total liquidations across 72 hours hit $762M Both long and short traders made correct directional calls but still got liquidated At 25x leverage, a 4% price [...] The post Bitcoin Traders Lost $762M in 72 Hours as Hormuz Headlines Reversed appeared first on Blockonomi.

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Applied Materials (AMAT) stock rose Tuesday as Advantest joined its $5B EPIC Center as the first automated test equipment innovation partner in Silicon Valley. The post Applied Materials (AMAT) Stock Rises as Advantest Joins $5 Billion EPIC Center Campus appeared first on Blockonomi.

ARK Invest purchased Amazon (AMZN) stock before Q1 earnings and added Kratos shares while selling Iridium. Details on Cathie Wood's latest trades. The post ARK Invest Loads Up on Amazon (AMZN) Stock Ahead of Earnings, Exits Iridium Position appeared first on Blockonomi.