The Coinbase-supported L2 solution Base has launched the Azul update on its testnet. Developers have described it as the first independent upgrade ahead of its mainnet activation, scheduled for May 13. Base Azul is live on testnet — our first independent network upgrade.Azul makes Base more secure, performant, and easier to build on.More on what's inside: https://t.co/Ls6bGGCxVP— Base (@base) April 21, 2026 What's New Azul is built around a multi-proof system, combining two types: Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) proofs; Zero-Knowledge (ZK) proofs. The Base team explained that each type can finalize a block independently, and together they reduce asset withdrawal time to one day. In case of conflict, ZK takes precedence over TEE. The update will also simplify the network's software infrastructure—Base will transition to a unified client stack: base-reth-node will become the sole execution client; base-consensus—a new consensus solution based on Kona—will enhance blockchain performance and optimize operations. Source: X. Testing has already yielded initial practical results. Over the past two months, the number of empty blocks has decreased by 99%—from 200 to two per day. The blockchain withstood several peak loads of 5000 TPS. Progress Towards Decentralization According to developers, Azul will be a key step for Base towards the next stage of decentralization—Stage 2. The update will align the L2 solution with the latest specifications of the Osaka component, activated on Ethereum's execution layer as part of the Fusaka hard fork. Most applications will not require changes—only some node operators and developers using specialized functions. Users also need not take any action until Azul is implemented on the mainnet. Before activation, Base is conducting an audit competition on the Immunefi platform—applications are accepted until May 4. The prize fund for finding critical vulnerabilities is $250,000. Plans In the coming months, Base plans to release several more updates. By the end of June, a performance upgrade will be released: an integrated token standard, Flashblock access lists, a unified binary client, and accelerated withdrawals. In August, developers will introduce a user experience update with native account abstraction. In mid-May, Base will launch Vibenet—a public network for developers to experiment with future features before they go live on the mainnet. “Azul is the first network update on a stack we fully control. This marks the beginning of a sustainable rhythm of independent upgrades on the path to a global, free on-chain economy for the next billion users,” noted the L2 solution team. Back in February, Base abandoned the Optimism stack in favor of its own unified architecture.

The indefinite ceasefire extension eases geopolitical tensions, boosting crypto market confidence and increasing Bitcoin's bullish momentum. The post Trump extends US-Iran ceasefire, Bitcoin target $80K odds rise appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Escalating tensions could destabilize regional security, impact global oil markets, and complicate diplomatic efforts for conflict resolution. The post Iran calls US naval blockade an “act of war,” demands forceful response appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Cloud mining apps gain popularity as users seek easier access to Bitcoin and Litecoin rewards. As an increasing number of users seek easier ways to earn cryptocurrency rewards without the need to purchase expensive mining hardware, the popularity of free…

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Business leaders across Europe are no longer just watching the crypto market from the sidelines. Data shows that 42% of business investors already hold some form of digital currency. Another 18% of these institutional players say they plan to buy in soon. This shift among companies is moving faster than many expected, yet the traditional […]

Vertiv (VRT) stock declined over 5% in pre-market despite Q1 earnings beat, as full-year revenue guidance fell short of Wall Street's expectations. The post Vertiv (VRT) Stock Tumbles Despite Earnings Beat on Soft Revenue Outlook appeared first on Blockonomi.

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) reports record Q1 2026 results with $600M+ commissions, 77% margins, and dividend increase despite market volatility. The post Interactive Brokers (IBKR) Stock Surges on Record-Breaking Q1 2026 Performance appeared first on Blockonomi.

Geopolitical tensions and market instability could heighten economic uncertainty, influencing investor behavior and policy decisions. The post Iran tensions, stock bubble fears drive US recession odds by 2026 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Coinbase legal chief Paul Grewal says the company removed New York’s prediction markets lawsuit to federal court, setting up a sharper fight over CFTC authority and state gambling laws.

Bitcoin’s technical indicators predicted a significant move ahead for BTC, but the price must first break resistance at $80,000.

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Stablecoin yield is the return earned by depositing assets like USDT or USDC into lending, savings, or liquidity systems that generate income through borrowing demand, trading activity, or structured strategies. In 2026, this segment has matured: yields are lower than in previous cycles, but more transparent and tied to real market activity. This article explains [...] The post Where to Earn Interest on USDT and USDC in 2026: CeFi vs DeFi Compared appeared first on Blockonomi.

Stratiphy launches UK IFISA platform for tax-free Crypto ETN access after regulatory changes eliminated traditional ISA eligibility for digital assets. The post Stratiphy Secures IFISA Status to Offer Tax-Efficient Crypto ETN Investment in UK appeared first on Blockonomi.

United Airlines (UAL) stock dropped 1.8% after cutting 2026 EPS guidance to $7-$11 from $12-$14. Q1 earnings beat estimates but fuel costs weigh heavily. The post United Airlines (UAL) Stock Drops as Carrier Dramatically Reduces 2026 Profit Outlook appeared first on Blockonomi.

BlackRock bought over $900 million in Bitcoin in five days, driving ETF inflows and adding to supply shock concerns.

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This article is presented by Bitcoin.com News in partnership with ChangeNOW. This is sponsored content – Bitcoin.com News editorial was not involved in the development of this article. Developing a crypto wallet presents an economic challenge: storage incurs costs without generating revenue. Without integrated monetization, early-stage teams deplete resources while awaiting user growth. To address […]

CME Group (CME) stock falls 1.5% after posting historic Q1 2026 results with $1.9B revenue and 36.2M daily contracts—a 22% volume increase. The post CME Group (CME) Stock Slides Following Record-Breaking Q1 2026 Performance appeared first on Blockonomi.

"Developers are encouraged to try integrating subscriptions in their own apps," the official message reads.

Bitcoin has entered the US national security conversation more directly, and more publicly, than before. In Senate testimony highlighted Thursday by the Bitcoin Policy Institute (BPI) and several industry observers, Admiral Samuel Paparo, the four-star commander of US Indo-Pacific Command, described BTC as showing “incredible potential” as a tool with cybersecurity and broader strategic applications. […]

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Core Scientific is seeking to raise $3.3 billion through a debt offering as it pivots toward AI-focused data centers. The move underscores a broader shift away from bitcoin mining. Key Takeaways: Core Scientific plans $3.3 billion debt raise for 2031 notes, pivoting from bitcoin mining. JPMorgan-backed $1 billion credit and asset sales signal shift to […]

In 1955 the Joint Economic Committee of the US Congress published a report on the economic consequences of automation. Analysts warned that new technologies threatened workers unable to adapt to a changing labour market. Seventy years on, the warning rings true again. The industrial era automated manual work and squeezed factory hands. Generative artificial intelligence is reshaping the post-industrial economy. Now highly skilled specialists and knowledge professionals—once thought shielded from automation—are in the firing line. Drawing on a Tufts University study and corporate trends, we assessed the scale of the shift. “Wired belts” Prestigious diplomas and jobs in innovation clusters no longer guarantee career or financial stability. Many specialists in STEM, applied mathematics, law and the humanities are at risk. Key risk factors are tight coupling to digital technologies, standardised workflows and information-heavy tasks. Researchers at MIT estimate that in the near future AI is capable of displacing 11.7% of workers in the US labour market. In pay terms, that equates to $1.2trn across finance, health care and professional services. This is a sizeable chunk of household income and of municipal tax receipts. Automation could trigger a large-scale reallocation of global capital. Cutting-edge intellectual hubs that once generated most added value are rapidly turning into so-called “wired belts” (Wired Belts). There is a risk that innovation regions will become the new depressed zones—marked by structural unemployment, weaker consumer demand and prolonged stagnation. Occupational vulnerability to AI Analysts at Tufts University’s Digital Planet distinguish two notions: “exposure” and “vulnerability”. Exposure is the technical ability of LLMs to perform tasks within a given occupation. An assessment of how far an occupation’s tasks overlap with the capabilities of today’s AI models. Maximum is 100 points. Source: Tufts University Digital Planet — AI Jobs Risk Index. Vulnerability is the real economic risk that a human will be replaced by an algorithm. It factors in the cost of deployment (ROI), available infrastructure, regulatory barriers and firms’ readiness to rewire processes. Indices such as the American AI Jobs Risk Index rest on three metrics: Task-Based score — the ability of large language models to cut task time by at least 50% without loss of quality; Suitability for Machine Learning — the applicability of machine-learning methods to business processes; Advances in AI — the pace of progress in adjacent fields. The data undercut the belief that complex, creative or intellectual work is protected from automation. For modern neural networks built on the Transformer architecture, there are no sacred barriers such as human intuition, abstract logic or creativity. Labour-market statistics record a persistent pattern: a 1% automation of tasks in a sector is followed by a 0.75% reduction in jobs. Pressure is greatest on specialists whose work involves generating and processing digital content. The most vulnerable: writers and copywriters (57.4%) — mass text generation leads to platform monopolisation and falling incomes for freelancers; software developers (55.2%) — demand for juniors is declining and the outsourcing market is narrowing as boilerplate code and refactoring are automated; web-interface designers (54.6%) — displaced by no-code tools used directly by managers. Risk of job displacement (%). Source: Tufts University Digital Planet — AI Jobs Risk Index. Applied mathematicians and sociologists are also in the danger zone, as statistical modelling and semantic analysis of big data absorb their tasks. The productivity trap: from augmentation to substitution In expert circles and in Silicon Valley’s PR, a soothing line prevails: AI is augmentation—tools that extend human abilities. Algorithms will complement people, freeing them from cognitive drudgery for strategic and creative work. Corporate practice suggests otherwise. In most cases the line is classic AI-washing—an attempt to mask structural headcount cuts as a concern for innovation and productivity. If generative AI halves the time needed for a task, staff are unlikely to gain leisure. In a market economy, freed capacity is either redeployed to new tasks or becomes a rationale for layoffs. The Block case: the market favours substitution A clear example of the era of “cognitive automation” is Block’s restructuring under Jack Dorsey. In February 2026 the company announced nearly 4,000 job cuts. Headcount fell almost by half—from more than 10,000 to under 6,000. The stated aim was a leaner, flatter structure with an emphasis on AI. Markets moved quickly: by the end of the same day’s trading Block’s shares rose by 20%. Investors reward firms for replacing human capital with algorithms—Block’s stock continues to climb, and the fintech’s market value has topped $40bn. Source: Google Finance. SaaSpocalypse and the return of Taylorism Macro research shows an approaching tipping point for 4.9m highly skilled US workers. In affected segments, the share potentially replaceable could rise from today’s 10% to 40% within two years. In tech this is already dubbed SaaSpocalypse—a term for the rapid devaluation of traditional software-development models. The arrival of autonomous software agents has erased about $285bn in market capitalisation from legacy software firms. From Bain and Deloitte reports on AI agents’ future to the reaction of sector ETFs and JPMorgan. Source: Taskade. For decades these models rested on reselling routine intellectual labour by large developer teams. When code is generated by machines at near-zero marginal cost, such models lose their edge. Taylorism for white-collar workers Big corporations are reviving the principles of Taylorism for office staff. Tech giants are shifting from recommending to mandating AI use. Amazon Web Services introduced digital dashboards to track how often staff use AI. Google and Microsoft have folded this metric into performance reviews. An engineer’s or manager’s refusal to use AI tools is treated as professional inefficiency. Those who designed this technological shift have been hit hardest. Output of complex content and software is soaring, yet its market price is trending towards zero—steadily undermining middle-class incomes. The geography of risk and the “ghost GDP” paradox Adaptation to technology is already reshaping economic geography. The greatest risks sit in leading tech centres with historically high concentrations of well-paid cognitive jobs. Analysts have built the Iceberg Index—a digital twin of the US labour market modelling employment for 151m workers, each treated as an independent agent. It shows how neural networks reconfigure task structures long before changes appear in unemployment data. Spatial modelling yields an unexpected result. San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, tops the anti-ranking—with 9.9% of jobs at risk of displacement. Small university towns are especially vulnerable, their economies built around serving knowledge workers. The loss of even 7–8% of jobs there threatens reduced consumer demand and falling property markets. US regions most exposed to “cognitive automation”. Source: Tufts University Digital Planet — AI Jobs Risk Index. At the other end are regions historically dominated by manual labour, where AI substitution risk is statistically minimal. Ironically, areas long deprived of high-paying jobs may suffer least from their disappearance. This produces what analysts call “ghost GDP” (Ghost GDP). Headline GDP keeps rising on corporate productivity, but less of it reaches households: money pools in corporate profits rather than circulating in local communities. The militarisation of AI In the corporate sector, AI roll-outs often serve as a pretext for job cuts. In the military the logic differs: AI is a tool to boost capability, not merely to trim costs. Integrating AI into intelligence and defence is declared a strategic priority. In December the US military launched the GenAI.mil platform to apply Google’s Gemini for Government to national security. The initiative sits within the Trump administration’s plan, unveiled in July: federal agencies must accelerate the adoption of advanced AI systems. The US Army has initiated a retraining drive—introduced specialty 49B. AI officers will manage high-tech systems, speed decision cycles and work with autonomous platforms. Unlike private business, the army is not laying people off but investing in retraining. Strategies for the transition Classic trade unions, unemployment insurance and other social institutions were built for the industrial age. Can they cope with large-scale displacement of functions and rungs of employment? Researchers at Tufts University argue that fundamentally new mechanisms are needed: wage insurance — the state compensates the income gap for a specialist whom algorithms have pushed into a lower-skilled role; corporate transparency — public companies should regularly disclose how AI affects headcount; investors and regulators must see the balance between productivity gains and job cuts; an “augmentation-first” model — corporate deployment of neural technologies is tied to mandatory funding for staff retraining; in Germany and France there are already state subsidies for reskilling workers whose tasks are automated; “stack qualifications” — four-year degrees give way to short micro-modules refreshed every few months; emphasis shifts to meta-skills: systems thinking, ethical arbitration and empathy. What next The mass diffusion of generative AI has outgrown the frame of corporate efficiency. It is a structural shift of global scale that ends humanity’s centuries-long monopoly on complex mental labour. The formation of a new digital “rust belt” is becoming a painful socio-economic problem. The window for soft, preventive adaptation has almost shut. Digital transformation is spreading far faster than legislation and education can adjust. Future stability will not hinge on trying to slow adoption. But productivity gains and technological progress will lose their humanist purpose if the price is the destruction of the global middle class and the conversion of innovation hubs into zones of chronic decline.

Uzbekistan establishes regulated crypto mining zone in Karakalpakstan with tax breaks through 2035, mandating local bank processing for all mining revenues. The post Uzbekistan Establishes Special Economic Zone for Cryptocurrency Mining Operations appeared first on Blockonomi.

Adobe (ADBE) stock climbs 3.5% on $25B buyback announcement through 2030. Company addresses AI disruption fears at Summit 2026 with new CX Enterprise tools. The post Adobe (ADBE) Stock Surges on Massive $25B Share Repurchase Authorization Through 2030 appeared first on Blockonomi.

SpaceX announces option to acquire AI coding platform Cursor for $60B, offering access to xAI's Colossus supercomputer and $10B partnership alternative. The post SpaceX Gains $60 Billion Acquisition Rights to AI Developer Platform Cursor appeared first on Blockonomi.

AT&T (T) stock rises after beating Q1 estimates with $0.57 EPS, $31.5B revenue, and 294K postpaid adds. Company reaffirms 2026 guidance. The post AT&T (T) Stock Gains Following Strong Q1 Performance and Subscriber Momentum appeared first on Blockonomi.

Utility-driven new crypto coins gain momentum as investors target early-stage opportunities in 2026. The biggest winners in new crypto coins 2026 are emerging from projects that combine real-world utility with strong early-stage entry opportunities.  As innovation accelerates, investors are focusing…

The breakdown in talks heightens geopolitical tensions, reducing prospects for peace and stability in the region, impacting global markets. The post US-Iran talks collapse over uranium, ceasefire deal by April 30 unlikely appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The indefinite ceasefire fosters diplomatic avenues, reducing immediate conflict risks and altering geopolitical dynamics in the region. The post Trump extends Iran ceasefire indefinitely, shifting focus to diplomacy appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

POET Technologies (POET) stock jumps 40% after CFO confirms Marvell-linked purchase order and reveals pending agreements with Foxconn and Luxshare. The post POET Technologies (POET) Stock Soars 40% Following Marvell Partnership Revelation appeared first on Blockonomi.

Meta Platforms has started rolling out internal tracking software on devices used by its U.S.-based employees, gathering data such as mouse movements and keystrokes to support the training of artificial intelligence systems. According to reports, the rollout is part of…

ASML stock rises after Q1 2026 earnings exceed expectations. Company raises full-year outlook to €40B and announces €12B buyback through 2028. The post ASML (ASML) Stock Surges Following Blockbuster Q1 Results and Raised 2026 Outlook appeared first on Blockonomi.

The indefinite ceasefire extension may not ease tensions as Iran's missile display suggests a continued defensive stance, impacting diplomatic efforts. The post Trump extends Iran ceasefire as Tehran showcases missiles in parade appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The regulation could centralize crypto control, impacting innovation and limiting individual autonomy in Russia's digital currency landscape. The post Russia’s State Duma advances bill regulating crypto market, phasing out P2P transactions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

An attempt to bridge 19.6 WBTC away was intercepted and blocked by the protocol, thereby removing the assets from the attacker's control.

Dogecoin saw $330 million in whale buying as analysts tracked rising network activity and a key breakout level at $0.1018.

In a direct response to the growing "Quantum Anxiety" sparked by recent breakthroughs at Google and IBM, Ripple officially unveiled its Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) roadmap for the XRP Ledger (XRPL) on April 21, 2026.

The founder of TRON, Justin Sun, has filed a lawsuit against the cryptocurrency project World Liberty Financial (WLF), which is linked to the family of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The lawsuit arises from the blocking of his WLFI tokens and the threat of their burning. Today, I filed a lawsuit in California federal court against World Liberty Financial to protect my legal rights as a holder of $WLFI tokens. I have always been—and remain—an ardent supporter of President Trump and his Administration’s efforts to make America crypto friendly.…— H.E. Justin Sun 👨‍🚀 🌞 (@justinsuntron) April 22, 2026 The lawsuit was filed in a California federal court. According to Sun, the project's team deprived him of his rights as an asset holder and his ability to participate in governance without valid reasons. "I tried to resolve the situation amicably, but the team refused to unfreeze my tokens. I had no choice but to go to court," the entrepreneur stated. Previously, Sun criticized WLF for its lack of transparency. He pointed out that 76% of the votes in the project are controlled by just 10 wallets. He was also outraged by a new governance proposal from April 15, which entails a two-year lock-up of assets for early investors and the burning of 10% of advisor tokens. Those who do not accept the new terms face an indefinite freeze of their funds. The World Liberty Financial team called the allegations unfounded. Does anyone still believe @justinsuntron ?Justin’s favorite move is playing the victim while making baseless allegations to cover up his own misconduct.Same playbook, different target. WLFI isn't the first.We have the contracts. We have the evidence. We have the truth.See…— WLFI (@worldlibertyfi) April 12, 2026 "We have the evidence and contracts. See you in court," project representatives responded on X. Despite the legal battle, Sun emphasized that he continues to support Trump's policies. In his view, the actions of certain WLF employees "contradict the values of the elected U.S. President." Sun is among the largest holders of the meme coin TRUMP. According to CoinCarp, the distribution of this asset is highly centralized, with over 91% of the supply concentrated in 10 addresses. Source: CoinCarp. Back in November 2024, Sun purchased 2 billion WLFI worth $30 million, becoming the project's largest investor. In May 2025, Jonathan Lopez filed a lawsuit against WLF's Head of Data and Strategy, Chase Herro, accusing him of fraud.

Meta is installing new software on its employees' computers in the United States to track mouse movements, clicks, and keystrokes. The collected data will be used to train AI models, reports Reuters, citing internal documents. The project is part of a broader programme to develop AI agents capable of independently performing work tasks. The tool, named the Model Capability Initiative (MCI), operates in work-related applications and websites. It is also configured to periodically take screenshots. The initiative aims to improve models in areas where they perform poorly, such as selecting from dropdown menus and using keyboard shortcuts. "This is where all Meta employees can help our models improve simply by doing their everyday work," the documents state. Meta's Chief Technology Officer Andrew Bosworth mentioned in a separate memo that the company will enhance the collection of internal data as part of the AI for Work initiative. "We aim for agents to do the work while you guide and check them, and help them improve," added the top executive. Meta spokesperson Andy Stone assured that data collected via MCI will not be used for performance evaluation or any purposes other than model training. Security measures are also in place to protect confidential content. Automation and Unemployment AI tools enable the automation of some tasks and reduce personnel costs, a strategy some companies are adopting. Meta plans to lay off 10% of its workforce starting May 20. Additional significant cuts are being considered by the end of the year. Amazon has terminated contracts with 30,000 employees over the past few months. In February, Block reduced nearly half its staff. Meta encourages the use of AI agents for programming and other tasks, even if it slows down work in the short term. Last month, the company formed the Applied AI engineering team. Its task is to enhance the programming capabilities of neural networks and use them to create agents. These will eventually be used for the development, testing, and release of future products and infrastructure. In early April, Meta began transferring "strong" programmers to Applied AI. Legality of the Initiative Yale University law professor Ifeoma Ajunwa noted that recording computer actions and screenshots has historically been used by companies to detect employee violations. The shift to recording keystrokes takes data collection to a new level. Workers are subjected to a degree of real-time surveillance previously experienced only by couriers and those in the gig economy. "There are no federal restrictions on employee surveillance in the United States," said Ajunwa. York University law professor in Toronto Valerio De Stefano emphasized that European legislation would likely prohibit such monitoring. In April, Meta introduced the AI model Muse Spark, developed by the new Meta Superintelligence Labs research team.

Volo Protocol has confirmed a $3.5 million exploit affecting select vaults, adding that it has frozen assets and started fund recovery efforts amid ongoing investigation.

Bitcoin price metrics saw a broad recovery in April, but analysis warns that the 2022 bear-market breakdown could still repeat.

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Bitcoin's whale orderbook indicates positioning by big players with bid and supply zones spotted.

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HIVE Digital Technologies (HIVE) stock gains after closing $115M exchangeable notes deal to fund AI infrastructure and data center expansion. The post HIVE Digital Technologies (HIVE) Stock Surges Following $115M Exchangeable Notes Transaction appeared first on Blockonomi.

Ethereum price rallied nearly 5% to reclaim the $2,400 mark on Wednesday amid a broader market rebound as crude oil prices fell. According to data from crypto.news, Ethereum (ETH) price rose 4.8% to $2,402 on April 22, extending its monthly…

Bitcoin's surge reflects how geopolitical stability can boost risk assets, highlighting the cryptocurrency's sensitivity to global events. The post Bitcoin hits $78K after US-Iran ceasefire extension appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Prediction platforms Kalshi and Polymarket have announced the launch of perpetual futures on cryptocurrencies. These new instruments will allow users to trade with leverage. According to The Information, Kalshi will introduce the product in the coming weeks. Initially, users will be offered contracts on Bitcoin and other digital assets, with plans to later expand the range to include commodities. The platform will accept US dollars as collateral and plans to implement stablecoins in the second quarter. Last month, Kalshi obtained a license for margin trading in the US, reports The Information. Polymarket confirmed the launch of a similar service on its social media. The company released a video showcasing the interface for futures on crypto assets, stocks, and commodities. We price the future.Now you can lever it.Perps are coming to Polymarket.Sign up for early access 👇 pic.twitter.com/j3PRHhxv8N— Polymarket (@Polymarket) April 21, 2026 The platform has opened a waiting list—the tool will be available on the international version of the exchange, which operates outside US jurisdiction. Perpetual futures do not have an expiration date and are popular in the crypto industry. CFTC Chairman Michael Selig previously urged officials to quickly establish clear rules for prediction markets.  In April, Bernstein analysts suggested that by 2030, the total turnover of prediction markets could reach $1 trillion. 

Tether minted 2 billion USDT on the Ethereum network over three days, executing the issuance across multiple onchain batches from its treasury address. The minting adds to a supply base now near $190 billion. Key Takeaways: Tether minted 2 billion USDT on Ethereum in three days, with total USDT supply now near $190 billion. Large […]

BlackRock continues purchasing Bitcoin in large quantities as market sentiments flip positive and investors begin to show renewed interests.

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Uzbekistan launched a supervised crypto mining zone in Karakalpakstan with tax breaks and rules requiring proceeds in local banks.

Iran's actions highlight its strategic control in the Persian Gulf, impacting geopolitical stability and influencing market perceptions. The post Iran seizes two vessels, maintains control in Persian Gulf appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Iran's mapping of undersea cables heightens regional cyber threat, complicating diplomatic efforts and potentially escalating tensions. The post Iran maps Persian Gulf undersea cables, raising cyber threat concerns appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Increased financial strain on Iran may heighten regional instability, complicating diplomatic efforts and impacting global markets. The post Trump claims Iran “collapsing financially” amid US naval blockade appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Comparing market value Cardano BNB Pepeto after Hoskinson’s April 20 critique of Ripple’s tokenomics and BNB Chain’s $1.02 billion quarterly burn tells a brutal story for large caps. ADA sits at $0.247 and BNB holds $630 but neither can match the returns a presale at six decimal zeros still offers. BNB holders know the pattern. [...] The post Cardano, BNB and Pepeto: Comparing Market Value Shows Presales Still Crush Top 10 Coins appeared first on Blockonomi.

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Shiba Inu isn't following the market-wide recovery of memecoins and reasons are somewhat understandable.

AI day trading bots gain popularity as traders seek faster execution and better discipline. The rise of the AI day trading bot is changing how traders approach fast-moving markets. In 2026, more active traders are using AI tools to scan…

Stratiphy has introduced a new route for UK investors to regain tax-free exposure to crypto ETNs after recent rule changes limited access. According to the Financial Times, the fintech platform is offering crypto exchange-traded notes through Innovative Finance (IF) ISAs,…

Stratiphy is reopening a tax-free route to crypto ETNs in the UK after HMRC’s ISA rule change left retail investors with little practical access.

Uzbekistan has created a supervised crypto mining zone in Karakalpakstan, allowing foreign sales while requiring proceeds to flow through local bank accounts.

Russia's State Duma advances crypto regulation bill establishing licensing requirements, retail investment caps, and cross-border payment framework. The post Russia Prepares Comprehensive Crypto Licensing Framework with Investment Caps appeared first on Blockonomi.

Barrick Mining (B) stock dropped 5.8% to $40.45 despite beating earnings expectations and raising dividends. Is the stock overvalued or ready to rebound? The post Barrick Mining (B) Stock Plummets 6% Amid Valuation Worries — What’s Next? appeared first on Blockonomi.

Charles Hoskinson questioned Bitcoin’s post-quantum security choice, saying SPHINCS+ may protect the network but limit flexibility.

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Nvidia (NVDA) is in talks with South Korean power equipment makers about 800V DC data center infrastructure, signaling a major shift in AI data center design. The post Nvidia (NVDA) Explores 800V Data Center Revolution with South Korean Tech Giants appeared first on Blockonomi.

Gold prices surge over 1% to $4,767/oz after Trump extends Iran ceasefire indefinitely, but Fed nominee Warsh's hawkish stance limits gains. The post Gold Gains Over 1% as Trump Announces Indefinite Iran Ceasefire Extension appeared first on Blockonomi.

Ed Yardeni recommends overweighting Energy stocks after 10% drop, expecting oil to stay in $75-$95 range as Iran ceasefire expires April 22. The post Ed Yardeni Urges Investors to Buy Energy Stocks Ahead of Iran Ceasefire Expiration appeared first on Blockonomi.

Intel (INTC) stock has jumped 78% YTD on strategic deals and 18A chip progress. Q1 2026 earnings on April 23 will test whether the rally can continue. The post Intel (INTC) Stock Rockets 78% in 2026 — Will Q1 Earnings Justify the Rally? appeared first on Blockonomi.

The Bitcoin price continues to struggle despite the recent recovery, but the real losses are being recorded elsewhere. The decentralized finance (DeFi) sector was the main focus of the 2021-2022 bull market, with the emergence of new coins. However, the bullishness surrounding the entire sector has been eroded over the years, and the effects are […]

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The Greek maritime risk management firm MARISKS has issued an urgent warning regarding a cryptocurrency scam targeting shipping companies stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Key Takeaways: MARISKS reports unknown actors are extorting shipping firms for bitcoin and USDT to bypass the blockade. At least one tanker was hit by Iranian gunfire on April 18 […]

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Geopolitical tensions highlight crypto's vulnerability to external shocks, affecting market stability and influencing investor sentiment. The post Crypto market hit by $415M liquidation wave amid US-Iran tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Firefox developer Mozilla revealed that an early version of Anthropic’s Claude Mythos AI identified 271 vulnerabilities in the Firefox browser during internal testing, all of which were patched this week. The findings point to how advanced AI systems are starting…

The ceasefire extension highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions, with markets skeptical of a swift resolution without concrete diplomatic progress. The post Trump extends US-Iran ceasefire, but formal peace deal remains unlikely appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Samsung increases DRAM chip supply to Tesla by 400% in April 2026, addressing production bottlenecks under their $16.5B semiconductor manufacturing agreement. The post Samsung Boosts Tesla (TSLA) DRAM Deliveries by 400% in April 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.

Warsh's potential Fed leadership could signal a regulatory shift, boosting institutional confidence and impacting Bitcoin's future trajectory. The post Kevin Warsh’s Fed nomination boosts Bitcoin sentiment amid crypto holdings disclosure appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Young talent in the Philadelphia 76ers could be the key to their future playoff success. The post Daniel Jeremiah: Philadelphia 76ers’ young stars promise a bright future, concerns about Jalen Brunson’s leadership, and the impact of Knicks’ coaching decisions | Pardon My Take appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

As Bitcoin price continues to march higher towards $80,000, Grayscale researchers believe the asset has likely already formed a market bottom and is entering the early phase of a new bull cycle. Bitcoin (BTC) price reached a 10-week high above…

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The prolonged conflict risks sustained economic damage, with market skepticism on quick resolutions impacting global economic stability. The post Iran war disrupts global oil supply, Strait of Hormuz closure impacts markets appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Geopolitical tensions and the Strait of Hormuz closure are reshaping global energy security and market dynamics. The post Daniel Yergin: Geopolitical tensions are reshaping global energy markets, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz marks a pivotal moment, and energy security is shifting from oil to electricity | Odd Lots appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Market turbulence looms as liquidity cycles, not recession fears, shape the future of risk assets. The post Michael Howell: Market turbulence is approaching but not here yet, media narratives on recession are misleading, and understanding liquidity cycles is key for investors | Forward Guidance appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Just 24 hours after a massive $108 million shift to Coinbase, another 50 million XRP has left Ripple’s vaults, so the company is not selling its "North Star" anymore?

AMD stock jumped 3.47% after Stifel raised its price target to $320, driven by surging AI demand and major deals with Meta and OpenAI. The post Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) Stock Surges on Stifel’s Bullish $320 Price Target appeared first on Blockonomi.

The Iranian President's praise for the Revolutionary Guard signals a hardened stance, reducing diplomatic prospects and increasing conflict risks. The post Iranian President’s praise for Revolutionary Guard dims ceasefire hopes by April 30 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Microsoft (MSFT) stock edges higher as Xbox slashes Game Pass Ultimate pricing 23% to $22.99/month, removing day-one Call of Duty access in the process. The post Microsoft (MSFT) Stock Gains After Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Sees Major Price Reduction appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR: Tiger Research sets Bitcoin’s 12-month target at $143,000 using a neutral TVM base of $132,500. Upside from current BTC levels widened to 103% in Q2 2026, up from 93% recorded in Q1. Global M2 hit $134.4T, but 60% came from China, limiting liquidity access to Bitcoin markets. Bitcoin L2 TVL dropped 74% year-to-date, prompting [...] The post Bitcoin Price Target Set at $143,000 as Tiger Research Q2 Report Projects 2x Upside appeared first on Blockonomi.

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Sullivan & Cromwell admits AI tool created false citations in court filing, sparking concerns about AI reliability in legal practice and verification gaps. The post Sullivan & Cromwell Issues Court Apology After AI Generates False Legal Citations appeared first on Blockonomi.

The last time BTC traded at these levels was in early February.

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ARK Invest estimates SpaceX worth $1.75 trillion before its planned June 2026 IPO, driven by Starlink growth, reduced launch costs, and orbital economy. The post ARK Invest Projects $1.75 Trillion Valuation for SpaceX Before Rumored 2026 Public Debut appeared first on Blockonomi.

Core Scientific (CORZ) stock gained 6% after revealing a $3.3B junk bond sale to build six AI data centers leased to CoreWeave under a $10B contract. The post Core Scientific (CORZ) Stock Jumps 6% After Announcing $3.3B Bond Offering for AI Expansion appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR: Dogecoin recorded nearly $800M in transaction volume on April 16, one of its highest single-day spikes this year. Whale wallets accumulated over $330M in DOGE over the past week, pointing to a firm price floor forming during consolidation. The $0.1018 resistance level on the 4-hour chart has rejected five consecutive breakout attempts, keeping DOGE [...] The post Can Dogecoin Break $0.1018? On-Chain Signals and Whale Buying Build the Case appeared first on Blockonomi.

David Schwartz defended Arbitrum’s ETH freeze after the KelpDAO exploit by comparing it to Bitcoin’s 2010 overflow rollback.

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Revolut plans IPO with $200B valuation target by 2028, up from $75B in 2025. Profits jumped 57% while banking licenses expand across UK and US markets. The post Revolut Eyes Massive $200 Billion Valuation for 2028 IPO Launch appeared first on Blockonomi.

Apple announces John Ternus as next CEO replacing Tim Cook on Sept 1, 2026. AAPL stock falls 2.52%. Q2 earnings expected April 30 with analyst targets at $305.81. The post Apple (AAPL) Names John Ternus as Next CEO: Stock Dips on Leadership Change appeared first on Blockonomi.

Amazon (AMZN) launches GLP-1 weight loss program, sending Hims & Hers (HIMS) stock down 6% as competition heats up in the obesity treatment market. The post Amazon (AMZN) Enters Weight Loss Market as Hims & Hers (HIMS) Stock Plunges 6% appeared first on Blockonomi.

Tron founder Justin Sun filed a lawsuit in a California federal court against World Liberty Financial, the Trump-backed decentralized finance ( DeFi) project, alleging his $75 million WLFI token position was frozen without disclosure. Key Takeaways: Justin Sun filed a California federal lawsuit against WLFI on April 22 over $75 million in frozen tokens. Sun […]

Charles Hoskinson believes Bitcoin's post-quantume resistance choice wasn't that great.

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Bitcoin rose above $78,000 after Iran ceasefire extension, while crypto liquidations neared $460 million and market value topped $2.7T today.

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Volo Protocol suffers $3.5M exploit targeting select vaults on Sui network. Team freezes operations, secures remaining $28M TVL, and pledges full loss coverage. The post Volo Protocol Suffers $3.5M Security Breach, Team Vows Full User Reimbursement appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR: Justin Sun filed a federal lawsuit in California against World Liberty Financial over frozen tokens. Sun claims the WLFI team stripped his voting rights and threatened to permanently burn his holdings. A new WLFI governance proposal could lock tokens indefinitely for holders who reject its terms. Sun’s frozen tokens bar him from voting on [...] The post Justin Sun Files Federal Lawsuit Against World Liberty Financial Over Frozen Tokens and Stripped Voting Rights appeared first on Blockonomi.

Oil prices dropped 2% as Iran signaled potential talks on US naval blockade. Strait of Hormuz remains shut, affecting 20% of global crude supply. The post Crude Oil Retreats as Iran Hints at Potential US Naval Blockade Resolution appeared first on Blockonomi.

AI is driving more crypto bug bounty reports, but teams say low-quality and false-positive submissions are also rising fast.

The US's financial pressure on Iraq could escalate tensions, potentially leading to military actions if militia funding isn't curbed. The post US blocks Iraq dollar shipments to pressure Iran-backed militias appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

SK Hynix announces $13B South Korea plant for HBM chip packaging targeting AI data centers, with construction starting April 2026. Stock slips 1% on news. The post SK Hynix (000660) Commits $13B to Advanced HBM Packaging Facility in South Korea appeared first on Blockonomi.

OpenAI has launched the 'thinking' image generator ChatGPT Images 2.0 — a "cutting-edge model capable of tackling complex visual tasks and creating precise, ready-to-use works." Introducing ChatGPT Images 2.0A state-of-the-art image model that can take on complex visual tasks and produce precise, immediately usable visuals, with sharper editing, richer layouts, and thinking-level intelligence.Video made with ChatGPT Images pic.twitter.com/3aWfXakrcR— OpenAI (@OpenAI) April 21, 2026 The company highlighted a "qualitative leap" in following instructions, precise placement and proportion of objects, as well as in visualizing dense text. The model confidently operates in multiple languages and autonomously fills in gaps in requests, relying on visual and general context. As a result, users achieve the desired outcome with fewer clarifications. Precision and Control ChatGPT Images 2.0 handles complex concepts and accurately brings them to life visually. The model follows instructions, retains specified details, and displays fine elements with a resolution of up to 2K. Greater Precision and ControlChatGPT Images 2.0 can conceptualize more sophisticated images, and then actually bring that vision to life effectively. It’s able to follow instructions, preserve requested details, and render the fine-grained elements that often break image… pic.twitter.com/n29165pV9Q— OpenAI (@OpenAI) April 21, 2026 Working with Styles ChatGPT Images 2.0 more accurately conveys the distinctive features of photographs, cinematic frames, pixel art, manga, and other visual styles. LLM ensures a high degree of consistency in textures, lighting, composition, and fine details.  This level of precision can be beneficial in creating game prototypes, developing storyboards, preparing marketing materials, and creating works in a specific media format or genre. Capable of Thinking ChatGPT Images 2.0 is OpenAI's first image model capable of reasoning before generation. In conjunction with ChatGPT, the model can search for information online in real-time, create multiple variations from a single prompt, verify results, and generate functional QR codes. "This allows the model to take on much of the heavy lifting between idea and image, especially when accuracy, information relevance, consistency, and visual integrity are paramount," OpenAI claims. The model supports aspect ratios from 3:1 in width to 1:3 in height. It is available to ChatGPT and Codex users. The Images with thinking feature is included in the ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Business plans. In April, OpenAI granted limited access to its new AI model GPT-5.4-Cyber to select users.

Tesla (TSLA) stock falls ahead of Q1 earnings. Analysts expect $22B revenue, down 9% YoY, as Robotaxi expands and 2026 capex exceeds $20B. The post Tesla (TSLA) Stock Dips Before Q1 Earnings: What Wall Street Is Watching appeared first on Blockonomi.