Crypto market edges higher as short squeeze builds, Alphabet shares surge
The crypto market rose around 1.2% on Friday, with total market capitalization ticking higher as a wave of short liquidations and stronger tech-led risk sentiment lifted prices despite persistent geopolitical tensions. Bitcoin (BTC) climbed roughly 1.5% to trade near the…
Starknet Phase 4 Is Here: Shinobi Upgrade Brings Native Privacy and Bitcoin Support to Mainnet
TLDR: Starknet’s Shinobi upgrade is live on Mainnet, enabling protocol-level native privacy for the first time. strkBTC brings Bitcoin into Starknet with privacy support, backed by two governance votes closing May 7. Eight new projects launched on Starknet Mainnet, including Privily, the first privacy-focused L3 neobank. Loot Survivor hit 100 million onchain transactions, ranking ninth [...] The post Starknet Phase 4 Is Here: Shinobi Upgrade Brings Native Privacy and Bitcoin Support to Mainnet appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin Halted at $80K as US Fed and ECB Hold Interest Rates Steady: Your Weekly Crypto Recap
The ECB followed the Fed's example a day later, but it hinted about a hike in June.
Pentagon expands AI contracts with Nvidia, ends Anthropic deal
The Pentagon's AI contract shift bolsters NVIDIA's market dominance while highlighting security concerns in AI vendor selection. The post Pentagon expands AI contracts with Nvidia, ends Anthropic deal appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Exxon Mobil (XOM) Stock Climbs on Q1 Earnings Beat Amid Middle East Challenges
Exxon Mobil (XOM) stock climbed after Q1 adjusted earnings of $1.16/share exceeded forecasts, despite Middle East disruptions impacting production. The post Exxon Mobil (XOM) Stock Climbs on Q1 Earnings Beat Amid Middle East Challenges appeared first on Blockonomi.
WHITE TECH joins Croatia’s first MiCA-approved crypto firms
WHITE TECH gains MiCA approval in Croatia, allowing regulated crypto exchange, custody, and transfer services under EU rules.
Pentagon signs Nvidia, Microsoft, AWS for classified AI programs
The U.S. Department of Defense has expanded its push into artificial intelligence, securing fresh agreements with several major technology firms to deploy advanced AI systems across classified military networks. According to a Bloomberg report released Friday, Nvidia, Microsoft, Reflection AI,…
Trader Opens $1.96M MEGA Long at 1x Leverage, Already Down $402K
An onchain trader has opened a $1.96 million leveraged long on 11.96 million MEGA tokens and is already sitting on $402,000 in unrealized losses, a harsh reminder that altcoin risks do not disappear even when leverage is minimal. Key Takeaways: Trader 0xcc15 opened a $1.96 million leveraged long on 11.96M MEGA tokens and is already […]
US-Iran tensions drive oil prices above $110, impacting Fed rate cut odds
Geopolitical tensions and high oil prices may sustain inflation, influencing central banks to maintain cautious monetary policies. The post US-Iran tensions drive oil prices above $110, impacting Fed rate cut odds appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
OpenAI Foundation CFO Joins $1 Billion XRP Treasury; Bitcoin's Worst Case by May 2026 Detailed by Expert Trader; $183 Million 'Capital Flight' Hits Ethereum ETFs Amid DeFi Hack Wave - Morning Crypto Report
OpenAI CFO joins XRPN: will XRP become the currency of AI? DonAlt expects BTC "chop" at $77,000, while Ethereum ETFs lose $183 million amid a DeFi security crisis.
Coinbase Ventures: Crypto So Embedded in 5 Years We’ll Stop Talking About It
Coinbase Ventures: We’ll Stop Talking About It Imagine a world where cryptocurrency is not a buzzword or a risky bet, but a normal part of everyday business. According to Hoolie Tejwani, global head of Coinbase Ventures, that’s our future. In […] The post Coinbase Ventures: Crypto So Embedded in 5 Years We’ll Stop Talking About It appeared first on Blockmanity.
Moderna (MRNA) Surges Nearly 8% as Q1 Revenue Crushes Wall Street Forecasts
Moderna (MRNA) shares surge 8% after Q1 revenue hits $389M, tripling year-over-year and beating estimates on strong international vaccine sales. The post Moderna (MRNA) Surges Nearly 8% as Q1 Revenue Crushes Wall Street Forecasts appeared first on Blockonomi.
Roblox (RBLX) Stock Plummets 25% Following Dramatic Bookings Forecast Reduction
Roblox (RBLX) stock crashed 25% after drastically cutting bookings guidance. Age verification measures and rising competition weigh on user growth outlook. The post Roblox (RBLX) Stock Plummets 25% Following Dramatic Bookings Forecast Reduction appeared first on Blockonomi.
XRP to $10,000? Ripple CTO emeritus rejects bold claim
David Schwartz rejects $10,000 XRP claims and denies hidden government deal theories as old XRP comments resurface.
Bitcoin Gives US Leverage Against China, Defense Secretary Hegseth Says
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told Congress that Bitcoin can serve as a tool of US strategic leverage, linking the asset to classified Pentagon efforts and a broader competition with China. The comments mark one of the clearest public signals yet that parts of the US defense establishment now view BTC not only as a financial […]
Tether posts $1 billion Q1 profit, hits record reserves and holds $7 billion in Bitcoin
Tether's robust profit and record reserves highlight its resilience and significant influence in the global digital currency and financial markets. The post Tether posts $1 billion Q1 profit, hits record reserves and holds $7 billion in Bitcoin appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Tether Posts $1.04B Q1 2026 Profit as Reserve Buffer Hits Record $8.23B High
TLDR: Tether posted $1.04B in net profit for Q1 2026 despite highly volatile global market conditions. Excess reserves climbed to a record $8.23B, ranking third among all stablecoins on a standalone basis. Tether holds $141B in U.S. Treasury bills, making it the 17th largest Treasury holder worldwide. USD₮ circulation grew by over 5B tokens into [...] The post Tether Posts $1.04B Q1 2026 Profit as Reserve Buffer Hits Record $8.23B High appeared first on Blockonomi.
Roku (ROKU) Surges 8% on Strong Q1 Results and Upgraded Annual Forecast
Roku (ROKU) stock surged 7.8% after beating Q1 estimates with $1.25B revenue and raising full-year guidance above Wall Street expectations. The post Roku (ROKU) Surges 8% on Strong Q1 Results and Upgraded Annual Forecast appeared first on Blockonomi.
Will BNB price lose $600 support as a risky pattern forms?
BNB price is consolidating within a descending triangle pattern, with a horizontal support near $600 and a series of lower highs pressing against a downward-sloping resistance trendline, pointing to a potential breakdown. According to data from crypto.news, BNB (BNB) price…
When intelligence isn’t enough
The artificial-intelligence industry has hit a barrier that money or new generations of chips cannot clear. A global grid crunch, component shortages and community resistance have turned the construction of data centres into one of tech’s hardest logistical and political problems. How AI data centres differ from classical facilities, why the industry has grown more dependent on China, and how residents are voting out local officials to shield themselves from noise and environmental risks — all in ForkLog’s new report. An architectural shift Traditional data centres that powered the internet economy over the past two decades are fundamentally different from the architecture required for large language models. The classic data centre is built around the CPU and draws on average 5–10 kW per rack, whereas GPU-first AI racks consume roughly ten times more. Machine-learning racks with accelerators such as Nvidia’s H100 or B200 require 40–120 kW each. The power-density gap changes the underlying physics of these sites. A cluster of tens of thousands of GPUs under peak load consumes as much electricity as a small industrial city. The snag is that distribution networks and substations are rarely designed for such abrupt, localised surges in demand. The appetites of AI’s leaders have drained stocks of critical power-delivery gear: high‑voltage transformers, generators and batteries for uninterruptible power supplies. Manufacturing capacity in the US and Europe cannot keep up. As a result, lead times for industrial transformers, mostly sourced from China, have stretched from one–two years to three–five. America’s growing reliance on Chinese components runs counter to its political rhetoric. Source: Bloomberg. Another challenge is heat rejection. Air cooling cannot cope with AI-server density. The industry is being pushed toward liquid systems such as Direct-to-Chip and immersion baths. They require millions of litres of treated water and threaten regions, especially in arid climates. According to data cited by Dutch researcher Alex de Vries-Gao, AI systems worldwide used about 765bn litres of water in 2025. To conserve resources, developers are refining designs. Instead of traditional cooling towers, where water evaporates into the atmosphere, new data centres are increasingly equipped with closed‑loop systems. In them, water circulates through pipes, absorbs heat, is cooled in radiators and returns to servers with virtually no loss in volume. Adoption, however, is lagging far behind the pace of new builds. Almost at the Stargate An unprecedented budget, top-level political backing and the mantle of the decade’s defining AI alliance. At launch, Stargate seemed to have it all — at least on paper. Stargate is a $500bn initiative that US president Donald Trump announced in January 2025 as part of a national push to retain technological dominance. The OpenAI–SoftBank–Oracle joint venture was meant to drive a rapid build‑out of AI data‑centre infrastructure. A year on from the White House fanfare, the JV still lacked a full team and had not signed a single major construction deal in its own name. Markets turned skittish, too. JPMorgan Chase, slated to arrange $38bn of Stargate debt, ran into investor doubts about the project’s returns. OpenAI’s Sam Altman and SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son disagreed on fundamentals: where to build and who would be in control. From September to October 2025, Stargate’s top brass shuttled to Tokyo for tough talks with Son but failed to settle who would own the platform for the flagship campus in Abilene, Texas. A flagship site in Abilene spanning eight pads with a planned capacity of 2.1 GW. Source: Bloomberg. OpenAI weighed going it alone, but lenders refused to provide funds without a clear path to profitability. Stargate scaled back its aims and vacated a 900‑MW pad, keeping core Texas capacity with an eye to 1.2 GW later on. Partners shifted focus: in April 2026, developer Related Digital and Oracle raised $16bn in debt and equity to build a new mega‑data‑centre in Michigan for OpenAI’s needs. Rivals seized the opening. In late March 2026 Microsoft snapped up the vacant 900 MW, becoming Crusoe Energy’s new partner to expand the Abilene campus. The upgrade should lift the site’s total capacity to 2.1 GW by mid‑2027, using Nvidia GPUs. People push back Data centres are no longer viewed as unambiguous economic engines — they create few jobs once built, yet strain grids, consume water and generate constant noise. In April 2026 residents of Festus, Missouri, protested a $6bn data‑centre proposal. Locals secured the removal of four of eight city‑council members and launched a petition to oust the rest, including the mayor. On April 9 residents sued the city, alleging it failed to give the public enough time to review the proposal before voting and made illegal zoning changes for the project. The suit also claims the city held private meetings about the plan instead of public ones. The approved scheme for an unnamed developer would cover 360 acres. Similar episodes have unfolded across America in recent months: in February 2026 the New Brunswick (New Jersey) city council, under public pressure, rejected a data‑centre deal and opted instead to use 27,000 square feet for a public park; that same month, a proposal to annex land into Foristell (Missouri) met resistance over fears it would host a data centre. The decision was revised and the area kept its agricultural zoning; in September 2025 Prince George’s County (Maryland) paused data‑centre projects after local protests and set up a task force to study risks; in St. Charles (Missouri), less than an hour from Festus, officials are moving to ban data centres permanently after imposing a moratorium in August 2025. A data center in New Brunswick was canceled tonight when hundreds of residents showed up. When fight big tech and private equity we win. pic.twitter.com/doZ63Pdwue— Ben Dziobek (@BenDziobek) February 19, 2026 The growing backlash has increased demand for transparency and real‑time data. The team behind the “US Data‑Center Moratorium Tracker” is trying to unmask companies behind unnamed deal participants and is mapping all jurisdictions that have formally imposed temporary bans on new builds. According to the dashboard, as of April 14, 2026, there are 58 moratoria in force in the US. Source: “US Data‑Center Moratorium Tracker”. Fine, then: to space Energy shortages, delayed components and public protests have stalled the sector. Per Bloomberg, construction of about half of all planned US data centres has been postponed indefinitely or scrapped. Less than a third of projected capacity is actively being built. Expected delivery timelines for data centres as of March 9, 2026. Source: Bloomberg. Tech giants and independents are searching for alternatives — from the seabed to orbit. Between 2014 and 2024 Microsoft explored submerging sealed server capsules. The last large test of Project Natick took place off Scotland’s Orkney Islands from 2018 to 2020. A capsule housing two racks with 864 servers was lowered to about 35 metres. Only six compute units failed over two years underwater. By contrast, the on‑land control group saw eight times more failures. Researchers attributed this to inert nitrogen inside the capsule, the lack of temperature swings and the absence of the human factor — a frequent cause of breakdowns. A server capsule off the Orkney Islands, Scotland. Source: Microsoft. The ocean provided a free, effectively limitless heat sink and, contrary to fears, the data centre “did not harm the ecosystem”. An artificial reef even formed around the capsule, attracting fish. Despite the success, the project was shelved as ill‑suited to AI and hampered by logistics. Any physical intervention required ships, lifting the multi‑tonne capsule from the seabed and then resealing it. How might space fare? In late 2025, researchers at the 33FG group estimated that by 2030 AI compute in orbit would be cheaper than on Earth. In February SpaceX filed a request with America’s Federal Communications Commission to launch a constellation of 1m satellites for data centres — a network of orbital facilities linked by laser backhaul. The logic of space data centres rests on two factors: access to round‑the‑clock solar power and low temperatures for near‑ideal passive cooling. But the concept faces tough commercial and physical constraints. SpaceX’s leadership has warned of the risk that such projects are not viable at this stage. Main hurdles: launch costs. Even as the price per kilogram falls, sending heavy racks with tungsten radiation shielding remains extremely expensive; latency. Real‑time inference needs milliseconds. Shipping massive datasets to and from orbit adds delays that make the setup unsuitable for many tasks. Such facilities may fit only asynchronous model training; servicing. You cannot swap a failed GPU in space. Equipment lifetimes are strictly bounded by radiation tolerance. Others are joining the orbital push: Google said it aims to build a low‑Earth‑orbit satellite system to harvest solar power for data centres, while Nvidia has announced a compute platform for space‑based facilities. In 2026 California startup Aetherflux plans to launch orbital solar mini‑farms in satellite form to beam energy down to Earth with lasers. On April 27, 2026, Meta agreed to procure 1 GW of space‑derived power for its data centres from another startup. According to orbital power‑station developer Overview Energy, the first in‑orbit demo is due in 2028, with commercial deliveries in 2030. The build‑out of AI infrastructure has run into physical and administrative limits. The voracious power draw of new GPU clusters, their need for cooling water and the strain on local grids have changed how residents and municipalities view data centres. Scaling terrestrial compute has become not a matter of capital alone but a knotty logistical and social challenge. Orbital data‑centre ventures, despite today’s high costs and maintenance barriers, are emerging as a pragmatic response to the ground‑level crunch. In the coming years, firms’ ability to solve the placement problem will determine the pace of progress in computing.
MARA to Invest $1.5 Billion in Energy Company Transformation
Bitcoin miner MARA Holdings has entered into an agreement to purchase the Long Ridge Energy & Power gas power plant from FTAI Infrastructure for $1.5 billion. MARA expands its AI infrastructure pipeline by entering into an agreement to acquire Long Ridge Energy & Power, which owns, among other assets, a highly efficient 505 MW nameplate CCGT power plant and over 1,600 contiguous acres in one of the world’s largest AI and data center… pic.twitter.com/YUF9WlfQzP— MARA (@MARA) April 30, 2026 The deal includes Long Ridge's debt of $785 million. The remainder will be covered by cash and a loan from Barclays Bank. According to MARA, the asset is expected to generate approximately $144 million in annual adjusted EBITDA based on the second half of 2025 figures. The company plans to build an integrated digital infrastructure campus with a capacity of over 1 GW on the site. MARA's CEO Fred Thiel described Long Ridge as a "highly efficient contracted energy platform" that combines generation, fuel supply, grid connection, land, water, and fiber optics in one location. He believes the site will become a flagship campus for AI, with the company already receiving inquiries from potential tenants in the artificial intelligence and IT sectors. In February, MARA announced its shift towards data centers, reporting a $1.7 billion loss for the fourth quarter of 2025. MARA aims to transform from a pure bitcoin miner into an energy and digital infrastructure entity. In late March, the firm sold 15,133 BTC for $1.1 billion to repurchase its own bonds. On April 30, MARA's shares closed up nearly 12% at around $12. Over the past six months, the company's stock has risen by 54%. Source: Yahoo Finance. MARA is the second-largest public miner by operational hash rate (61.7 EH/s), trailing only Bitdeer (69.5 EH/s). According to BitcoinMiningStock, the rate increased by 5.83% over the month. In terms of bitcoin production, the company remains the industry leader. In April, the firm mined 736 BTC, a 4.39% increase for the month. Riot's First AI Revenue Riot Platforms has for the first time separated its data centers into a distinct business segment. By the end of the first quarter, the division generated $33.2 million for the company. Source: Riot. The firm's total profit for the reporting period was $167.2 million, with bitcoin mining contributing $111.9 million. The shift to AI accounted for about 20% of Riot's quarterly revenues. A key factor was a long-term agreement with AMD: the chip manufacturer exercised an option to expand and doubled its contracted capacity from 25 MW to 50 MW, with the potential to increase it to 200 MW. Riot continues to expand its site in Rockdale, Texas, where AMD's infrastructure is deployed. The firm is also constructing a campus in Corsicana. According to management, it will be able to accommodate either a single large tenant or multiple clients in AI, data centers, and hyperscaling. In the first quarter, Riot sold 3,778 BTC but retained 15,679 BTC on its balance sheet, valued at approximately $1.2 billion. This makes the company the seventh-largest public holder of bitcoin. Source: BitcoinTreasuries. The company's shares traded at $17.2 at the end of the latest trading session, gaining 7.8% for the day, according to Yahoo Finance. In the first quarter, public miners sold a record 32,000 BTC—more than in all of 2025.
WLFI Governance Vote: How a Coercive Ballot Captured 99.5% Approval From 18,000 Token Holders
TLDR: WLFI ballot gave holders no exit — accept vesting or face indefinite asset freezes with no appeal process. Four wallets controlled 40% of the vote, and one address alone exceeded the quorum threshold single-handedly. Founders retained 40.7 billion tokens worth $3.2B after burning only 4.5 billion — a 1:9 sacrifice-to-retention ratio. Simultaneous token unlocks [...] The post WLFI Governance Vote: How a Coercive Ballot Captured 99.5% Approval From 18,000 Token Holders appeared first on Blockonomi.
Nordic Bitcoin Education Initiative Deploys AI-Powered Tool to Address Energy Misconceptions
Nordic Bitcoin group unveils AI tool providing data-backed answers to energy claims about Bitcoin mining, citing renewable use and verified research sources. The post Nordic Bitcoin Education Initiative Deploys AI-Powered Tool to Address Energy Misconceptions appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin May rally ahead? $79K breakout could decide
Bitcoin trades near $77K as analysts watch $79K resistance, ETF flows, and exchange inflows for the next move.
US Navy adopts AI for mine detection in Strait of Hormuz, aims for faster clearance
AI-driven mine detection in the Strait of Hormuz could enhance maritime security, potentially stabilizing global oil trade routes by 2026. The post US Navy adopts AI for mine detection in Strait of Hormuz, aims for faster clearance appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Big Oil profits slump despite historic Iran-driven oil price surge
Despite operational gains, Big Oil's profit slump highlights vulnerabilities in financial hedging amid geopolitical disruptions. The post Big Oil profits slump despite historic Iran-driven oil price surge appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Brazil Bans Cryptocurrency Settlement in Regulated eFX Payment Systems
Brazil's central bank prohibits crypto and stablecoin settlement in regulated eFX payment rails under new Resolution BCB No. 561, tightening oversight. The post Brazil Bans Cryptocurrency Settlement in Regulated eFX Payment Systems appeared first on Blockonomi.
SBI adds Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP rewards in Visa card push
SBI and Visa launch a crypto rewards card for BTC, ETH and XRP as SBI pursues Bitbank subsidiary talks in Japan.
Ripple CTO Emeritus Dismisses $10,000 XRP Price Prediction
Ripple CTO Emeritus believes that the buzzing $10,000 price prediction for XRP is just a mere hype and it is unrealistic considering that XRP is still struggling around $1.
China Makes AI-Driven Layoffs Illegal as Global Job Cuts Hit 61,000 in 2026
TLDR: China courts ruled AI adoption is a voluntary business decision, not grounds for legal termination of workers. Over 61,000 workers lost jobs to AI-related cuts globally in just the first four months of 2026 alone. Amazon, Block, and Meta are among firms cutting headcount to redirect savings toward AI infrastructure spending. Economists warn of [...] The post China Makes AI-Driven Layoffs Illegal as Global Job Cuts Hit 61,000 in 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.
Trump’s Greenland acquisition unlikely amid US-Denmark tensions
Heightened US-Denmark tensions may signal a shift in US foreign policy focus away from Europe, impacting transatlantic diplomatic dynamics. The post Trump’s Greenland acquisition unlikely amid US-Denmark tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
AI Bot Based on Claude Outperforms S&P 500 by Mimicking Creator’s Style
Software engineer Jake Nesler developed a trading AI agent using Claude from Anthropic. The bot mimics the creator's trading style, analyzes risks, and independently determines position sizes, according to Bloomberg. During a month of testing, the agent achieved a 7% return, compared to 4.5% for the S&P; 500 over the same period. In the first week, the algorithm avoided buying Nvidia shares at their peak, saving the owner from a $10,000 loss. However, the strategy's volatility was high, with drawdowns reaching 22%. Nesler trained the model for two weeks using the Alpaca platform. Initially, Claude was overly conservative, selecting only blue-chip stocks. The developer had to manually adjust settings to encourage the AI to make riskier trades. The popularity of AI agents among retail traders continues to grow. Tools like OpenClaw allow users to manage bots via Telegram or WhatsApp. Major platforms such as OKX, Bybit, and Kraken have already implemented interfaces to simplify working with automated systems. Not So Straightforward Experts warn of the risks. According to Jay Malavia, co-founder of the Kairos terminal, profitable algorithms rarely become publicly available, and fake performance screenshots are often circulated on social media, typically to promote malicious software. Nesler himself is not yet ready to entrust the bot with real assets. In prediction market experiments, his agent quickly lost the entire deposit. He compared the state of AI trading to slot machines, where outcomes are largely determined by luck. In April, Anthropic introduced an experimental product, Claude Design, an AI-based design generation tool.
Tom Lee’s Bitmine stakes $508M ETH as holdings top 5M
Bitmine stakes $508M in ETH as holdings top 5M ETH, with over 4M ETH staked and 10.5% of Ethereum’s staked supply.
Iran closes Strait of Hormuz, US maintains blockade amid oil price surge
Geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions may sustain elevated oil prices, impacting global markets and economic stability. The post Iran closes Strait of Hormuz, US maintains blockade amid oil price surge appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Bitcoin ETFs draw $2B in April for highest monthly inflows this year
US spot Bitcoin ETFs posted strong April inflows as Bitcoin rallied, with IBIT leading gains despite late-month outflows across funds.
Crypto market edges higher as short squeeze builds, Alphabet shares surge
The crypto market rose around 1.2% on Friday, with total market capitalization ticking higher as a wave of short liquidations and stronger tech-led risk sentiment lifted prices despite persistent geopolitical tensions. Bitcoin (BTC) climbed roughly 1.5% to trade near the…
Bitmine Stakes $508M ETH in One Day, Now Controls 10.5% of Ethereum’s Total Staked Supply
TLDR: Bitmine staked $508.4M worth of ETH in a single day through six large transfers via Coinbase Prime. The firm now controls 10.5% of Ethereum’s total staked supply, totalling over 4 million ETH staked. Staking removes ETH from circulation, potentially creating long-term upward price pressure on Ethereum. No corporate entity has ever staked this proportion [...] The post Bitmine Stakes $508M ETH in One Day, Now Controls 10.5% of Ethereum’s Total Staked Supply appeared first on Blockonomi.
Global Crypto Pig-Butchering Crackdown: US, UAE, And China Bust 9 Scam Centers
The US, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Chinese authorities have cracked down on multiple cryptocurrency pig-butchering scam centers that have taken millions of dollars from American victims. Related Reading: South Korea Ramps Up 2027 Crypto Tax Prep Amid Abolition Calls 276 Arrested, 6 Indicted In Global Crackdown On Wednesday, the US Department of Justice […]
Justin Sun: Why Crypto Cards Are the ‘Next Evolution’ for Stablecoin Distribution
Tron founder Justin Sun has declared that crypto cards are the next structural phase in how digital assets reach everyday users. This follows a seismic year where stablecoins processed $33 trillion, surpassing Visa’s $14 trillion volume. Key Takeaways: Justin Sun identifies crypto cards as the “next evolution,” capitalizing on a $310 billion stablecoin market that […]
IDF restores security guidelines amid Lebanon border tensions
Heightened border tensions could delay Israeli withdrawal plans, impacting regional stability and influencing geopolitical market dynamics. The post IDF restores security guidelines amid Lebanon border tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
James Comey indicted for threats against Trump, arrest seen as imminent
Comey's indictment may accelerate legal proceedings, impacting political dynamics and public trust in justice system integrity. The post James Comey indicted for threats against Trump, arrest seen as imminent appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Ripple Big Unlock: 1 Billion XRP Hits Market Spotlight
1 billion XRP released from Ripple Escrow as new month kicks off.
Palantir (PLTR) Stock: Oppenheimer Sets $200 Target Ahead of Monday’s Q1 Report
Palantir (PLTR) reports Q1 earnings May 4. Oppenheimer sets $200 target with Buy rating. Wall Street expects $1.54B revenue, up 74% year-over-year. The post Palantir (PLTR) Stock: Oppenheimer Sets $200 Target Ahead of Monday’s Q1 Report appeared first on Blockonomi.
Strategy CEO Phong Le frames STRC as income despite payout risks
Strategy’s CEO has promoted its high-yield STRC stock as a way to cover personal expenses, drawing attention to the risks tied to its dividend structure. According to comments made by Phong Le on Natalie Brunell’s show, the executive described STRC…
Bitcoin STH MVRV Trendline Holds Across Three ATH Peaks: Structural Shift Hinges on Realized Price Reclaim
TLDR: Bitcoin has printed three consecutive ATHs in 2024–2025, each accompanied by a lower STH MVRV peak. A descending MVRV trendline has connected three structural peaks with precision since March 2024. Reclaiming the STH Realized Price would shift short-term holders from loss to a profit-dominated state. MVRV must stabilize above 1.0 alongside a Realized Price [...] The post Bitcoin STH MVRV Trendline Holds Across Three ATH Peaks: Structural Shift Hinges on Realized Price Reclaim appeared first on Blockonomi.
Pi Network (PI) Price Volatility, Ripple (XRP) Whales on the Move, and More: Bits Recap May 1
Here's everything most interesting surrounding PI, XRP, and SHIB.
UAE distrusts Iran over Hormuz, complicates US-Iran peace efforts
Regional instability may escalate, hindering diplomatic progress and impacting global oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz. The post UAE distrusts Iran over Hormuz, complicates US-Iran peace efforts appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Solana leads in quantum security with NIST-approved signatures, ahead of Ethereum
Solana's quantum security lead may boost investor confidence and market position, while Ethereum's lag could affect its long-term appeal. The post Solana leads in quantum security with NIST-approved signatures, ahead of Ethereum appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Analysis: Bitcoin’s 46-day funding drain set the stage for this week’s wipeout
Bitcoin funding rates stayed negative for 46 days, the longest since 2023, forcing shorts to pay longs daily. Bitcoin shorts didn’t just lose money when the squeeze hit; they had been losing money long before it arrived. For 46 consecutive…
Iran accuses US of strikes during talks, military tensions rise
The breakdown in US-Iran trust and military escalation risks destabilizing regional security and complicating future diplomatic efforts. The post Iran accuses US of strikes during talks, military tensions rise appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Japan’s JPX Plans Cryptocurrency ETF Debut in 2027 Amid Regulatory Reform
Japan Exchange Group plans crypto ETF launch by 2027 as regulatory reforms progress. Legal shifts under FIEA and tax clarity pave way for market entry. The post Japan’s JPX Plans Cryptocurrency ETF Debut in 2027 Amid Regulatory Reform appeared first on Blockonomi.
Ethereum rebound at risk? Exchange data flashes warning
Ethereum holds near $2,280 as exchange supply data signals dip risk while negative funding raises short squeeze concerns.
US-Iran conflict fuels WTI crude oil price hike expectations for May 2026
Geopolitical instability from the US-Iran conflict may lead to volatile markets, affecting global economic conditions and commodity prices. The post US-Iran conflict fuels WTI crude oil price hike expectations for May 2026 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
SBI eyes Bitbank deal as Japan’s crypto exchange market consolidates
SBI Holdings is in discussions to make Bitbank a subsidiary, adding to its push to acquire crypto exchanges amid improving regulatory clarity in Japan.
Brazil bars crypto settlement in regulated cross-border payment rails
Brazil’s central bank barred virtual assets from settlement inside regulated eFX payment rails as it tightens oversight of crypto-linked flows.
XRP Ledger User Count Nears 200,000: Is XRP Market Surge Incoming?
User count on the XRP Ledger is nearing extremely high values.
Memecoin News: Based Eggman and Shiba Inu Gain Traction as Solana Outpaces Bitcoin
Solana has been outperforming Bitcoin in recent sessions, and the rotation into higher-beta plays is lifting memecoin markets across networks. Based Eggman ($GGs) and Shiba Inu are both seeing fresh momentum, with Based Eggman pushing past $315K raised in Stage 3 of its presale. The best crypto presale tier on Base is where the cleanest setups [...] The post Memecoin News: Based Eggman and Shiba Inu Gain Traction as Solana Outpaces Bitcoin appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin Is In An Institutional Support Zone: Here Are The Three Metrics Funds Need Before They Jump In
Bitcoin is holding above $75,000 as the bullish momentum that drove it toward $79,000 over recent sessions has begun to slow. The recovery is real but not yet decisive — and as the market consolidates, a GugaOnChain report is drawing attention to a specific price zone that institutional participants appear to be watching with increasing […]
Kenyan Central Bank Moves to Vet VASP Applications With 4 Hires
The Central Bank of Kenya is reportedly actively recruiting for its first-ever dedicated virtual asset service provider supervision team. Key Takeaways: CBK opened recruitment for 4 VASP oversight roles following the passage of the 2025 VASP Act. The recruitment signals that the CBK aims to professionalize and stabilize Kenya’s growing crypto market. A 13-member committee […]
Indian Oil raises LPG, jet fuel prices amid West Asia conflict
The price hikes highlight the vulnerability of global energy markets to geopolitical tensions, potentially leading to prolonged supply chain disruptions. The post Indian Oil raises LPG, jet fuel prices amid West Asia conflict appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Trump considers pulling US troops from Italy, Spain amid NATO tensions
Potential U.S. troop withdrawal from Europe could destabilize NATO's strategic balance, prompting a reevaluation of transatlantic alliances. The post Trump considers pulling US troops from Italy, Spain amid NATO tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
CryptoQuant Labels April Bitcoin Surge as Speculative
According to CryptoQuant analysts, April's rally of the leading cryptocurrency from $66,000 to $79,000 was driven by perpetual futures, while spot demand remained negative. Perp demand is rising. Spot demand is still contracting.That exact setup appeared in 2022 and preceded the next leg down.It doesn’t guarantee the same outcome, but structurally, this is a bearish demand signal. pic.twitter.com/jE1Ld6koaZ— CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) April 30, 2026 They noted that the divergence between price growth and declining spot interest indicates a speculative nature of the movement. The Apparent Demand metric remained below zero throughout the month, indicating a lack of organic buyer support. Experts compared the current demand structure to the beginning of the 2022 bear phase: back then, growth in derivatives volumes was also accompanied by a contraction in spot activity, after which Bitcoin entered a multi-month correction. The digital gold's price has already retreated from a local high of around $79,000 to approximately $77,000. By the end of April, the asset had risen nearly 12%—the best performance since the start of the year, according to CoinGlass. Hourly chart of BTC/USDT on Binance. Source: TradingView. Specialists called this a predictable outcome of a rally primarily based on futures. An additional signal was CryptoQuant's Bull Score, which dropped from 50 to 40, falling back below the neutral mark into the "bearish zone." Key Level for Short-Term Holders CryptoQuant analyst Ignacio Moreno de Vicente specifically pointed to the STH MVRV indicator, which reflects the position of short-term Bitcoin holders. Bitcoin Is Close to Flipping the Market Structure“A sustained reclaim of the Realized Price, paired with the MVRV stabilizing and trending above 1.0, would signal a structural regime change.” – By @MorenoDV_ pic.twitter.com/AsxsyFEyzi— CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) May 1, 2026 According to him, in the current cycle, the indicator forms a descending resistance line connecting three peaks: March 2024 — Bitcoin reached $72,000; November 2024 — price rose to $106,000; July 2025 — the asset hit a new high of around $120,000. In all these cases, the price reached historical highs, but STH MVRV showed lower peaks. This is a sign of weakening momentum among short-term holders, despite rising prices. The market is now approaching a crucial test of this structure, the expert noted. If Bitcoin consolidates above the realized price of short-term holders, this group will move from loss to profit. According to Moreno de Vicente, a sustained recovery along with STH MVRV stabilizing above 1.0 could signal a market regime change—recent buyers would then stop pressuring the price at every rebound. Ethereum and the Risk of a Short Squeeze Similar tension in the derivatives market is observed with Ethereum, but the structure looks different. The altcoin's price has dropped 65% from its local peak. The TOTAL2 indicator has fallen by more than 51%, noted analyst Darkfost. 🗞️ Short Squeeze builds on Ethereum as Funding mirrors FTX-Era ExtremesThe altcoin market was hit hard during this downturn, with Ethereum at the forefront. ETH recorded a correction of around 65% from its last peak. TOTAL2, which represents the total market cap of altcoins… pic.twitter.com/7NkZo5XkNf— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) May 1, 2026 From the February low, the asset has recovered more than 30%. However, many participants still do not believe in the recovery and continue to open short positions, the specialist emphasized. According to him, funding rates for Ethereum on Binance have remained negative for a long time. This was only observed during the FTX collapse and the bottom of the last bear market in November 2022. The average monthly funding is currently -0.0018. Darkfost believes this reflects a persistent consensus among traders betting on further decline. “This is a risky bet, and some are already paying the price—as indicated by the growing volume of short position liquidations. As ETH's upward momentum strengthens, shorts are increasingly squeezed out. This dynamic could fuel Ethereum's recovery: cascading liquidations are mounting. Markets rarely reward such unanimous opinion,” he concluded. At the time of writing, the leading altcoin is trading around $2280. Over the past day, its price has risen by 0.8%, according to CoinGecko. On April 30, Glassnode experts noted a weakening of selling pressure from Bitcoin sellers.
ServiceNow (NOW) Stock Gains 2.5% After Hours: Barclays Maintains $132 Target With 49% Upside Potential
ServiceNow (NOW) stock gains 2.5% after hours on improved software sentiment. Barclays holds Buy rating with $132 target, implying 49% upside potential. The post ServiceNow (NOW) Stock Gains 2.5% After Hours: Barclays Maintains $132 Target With 49% Upside Potential appeared first on Blockonomi.
Riot Platforms (RIOT) Stock Climbs on AMD Partnership and Data Center Pivot
Riot Platforms (RIOT) stock surges after Q1 earnings reveal data center growth, AMD capacity expansion, and strategic shift beyond Bitcoin mining operations. The post Riot Platforms (RIOT) Stock Climbs on AMD Partnership and Data Center Pivot appeared first on Blockonomi.
Pete Hegseth defends Iran military campaign amid $1.5T budget request
The defense of the Iran campaign amid a hefty budget request may strain US-Iran relations and challenge congressional authority. The post Pete Hegseth defends Iran military campaign amid $1.5T budget request appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Microsoft boosts 2026 capital spending to $190B amid AI demand
Microsoft's increased capital spending signals a strategic push to secure a competitive edge in AI, potentially reshaping tech industry dynamics. The post Microsoft boosts 2026 capital spending to $190B amid AI demand appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Iran-US standoff disrupts Strait of Hormuz shipping, energy prices may hit $150
The prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could lead to sustained high energy prices, impacting global supply chains and industries. The post Iran-US standoff disrupts Strait of Hormuz shipping, energy prices may hit $150 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
US considers executive action to reintegrate Anthropic AI by April 2026
The potential reintegration of Anthropic AI into federal operations could reshape U.S. tech policy, balancing innovation with ethical concerns. The post US considers executive action to reintegrate Anthropic AI by April 2026 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
NuScale Power (SMR) Stock Soars 10% as Amazon Commits $500M to Small Modular Reactors
NuScale Power (SMR) stock climbed 10% after Amazon invested $500M in rival X-energy, igniting a nuclear sector rally and short squeeze. The post NuScale Power (SMR) Stock Soars 10% as Amazon Commits $500M to Small Modular Reactors appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bithumb wins court stay, dodges six-month suspension blow
South Korea’s Seoul Administrative Court has granted Bithumb a temporary reprieve from a six-month suspension, allowing the exchange to continue operating while the case proceeds. According to Yonhap News Agency, the court’s 2nd Administrative Division under Judge Gong Hyeon-jin approved…
US redefines Bitcoin as national security asset amid global tensions
The U.S. framing Bitcoin as a national security asset could boost its geopolitical influence and accelerate global digital currency adoption. The post US redefines Bitcoin as national security asset amid global tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Oklo (OKLO) Stock Surges 12% Despite Earnings Miss and Heavy Insider Selling
Oklo stock rallied 12% Thursday, but the nuclear startup missed Q1 projections and insiders sold $50M worth of shares. Here's what investors need to know. The post Oklo (OKLO) Stock Surges 12% Despite Earnings Miss and Heavy Insider Selling appeared first on Blockonomi.
Strategy (MSTR) Stock Climbs 5% Following Major Institutional Investments and Stable Bitcoin Holdings
Strategy (MSTR) stock rises 5% after AIMCo's $219M investment. The firm posted its first monthly gain in nine despite a 91% drop in Bitcoin buying volume. The post Strategy (MSTR) Stock Climbs 5% Following Major Institutional Investments and Stable Bitcoin Holdings appeared first on Blockonomi.
Brazil blocks crypto use in regulated cross-border payments
Brazil bars crypto settlement inside regulated eFX payment rails as its central bank tightens stablecoin oversight.
Crypto Price Analysis May-01: ETH, XRP, ADA, BNB, and HYPE
This Friday, we examine Ethereum, Ripple, Cardano, Binance Coin, and Hyperliquid in greater detail. Ethereum (ETH) Ethereum closed the week in the red, down 3%, after sellers returned at the $2,400 key resistance level. Hopefully, the price will not close this week with a bearish engulfing candle, as that would imply a major reversal awaits. […]
Russia halts Kazakh oil deliveries, escalating tensions with Ukraine
Russia's move exacerbates global energy supply issues, potentially hindering peace efforts and driving oil prices higher amid geopolitical tensions. The post Russia halts Kazakh oil deliveries, escalating tensions with Ukraine appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Israel strikes Hezbollah command HQ, military buildings in Lebanon
The Israeli strike on Hezbollah in Lebanon signals prolonged regional instability, reducing prospects for a near-term Israeli withdrawal. The post Israel strikes Hezbollah command HQ, military buildings in Lebanon appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Bennett and Lapid form “Together” alliance to challenge Netanyahu in elections
The "Together" alliance could intensify political fragmentation, potentially weakening Netanyahu's hold on power amid ongoing controversies. The post Bennett and Lapid form “Together” alliance to challenge Netanyahu in elections appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Why Goldman Sachs Prefers Tech Giants Over Semiconductor Stocks for AI Exposure
Goldman Sachs analyst Jim Covello argues hyperscalers like Amazon, Microsoft, and Alphabet offer better AI investment value than chipmakers right now. The post Why Goldman Sachs Prefers Tech Giants Over Semiconductor Stocks for AI Exposure appeared first on Blockonomi.
Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest Snaps Up $39.7M in Robinhood (HOOD) Stock After Earnings Disappointment
Robinhood (HOOD) stock dropped 12% after missing Q1 estimates. ARK Invest responded by buying $39.7M. Analysts debate if recovery is ahead or struggles persist. The post Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest Snaps Up $39.7M in Robinhood (HOOD) Stock After Earnings Disappointment appeared first on Blockonomi.
Iran-US peace talks begin with Khamenei’s approval amid regime stability
The talks may stabilize Iran's regime, but skepticism about a swift ceasefire persists, impacting geopolitical dynamics and market perceptions. The post Iran-US peace talks begin with Khamenei’s approval amid regime stability appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Rivian (RIVN) Stock Dips Following Q1 Earnings Despite Narrower Losses Than Anticipated
Rivian (RIVN) stock fell 4% after Q1 earnings beat forecasts. R2 production underway, Georgia plant expands, but profitability remains elusive. The post Rivian (RIVN) Stock Dips Following Q1 Earnings Despite Narrower Losses Than Anticipated appeared first on Blockonomi.
The Old Altseason Playbook Is Dead: Why This Cycle Has Changed Everything
TLDR: Broad altseason is considered an artefact of the past as too many coins chase shrinking speculative capital pools. Long-tail tokens have shifted from high risk, high reward to near-instant value destruction within seconds of holding. Bitcoin and Ethereum have underperformed historical recovery expectations, weakening the buy-the-dip anchor strategy. Institutional money is flowing into AI [...] The post The Old Altseason Playbook Is Dead: Why This Cycle Has Changed Everything appeared first on Blockonomi.
Hyperliquid Policy Center Fires Off CFTC Letter On Prediction Markets—Here’s What It Wants
The newly launched Hyperliquid Policy Center (HPC) has entered the US prediction market debate with a fresh submission to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The Washington, D.C.-based non-profit, led by Jake Chervinsky, said it responded to the CFTC’s request for public input following an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Prediction Markets (the “ANPRM”). […]
US ships 6,500 tons of munitions to Israel amid Iran tensions
The US munitions shipment to Israel may heighten regional tensions, impacting diplomatic efforts and market stability amid Iran conflicts. The post US ships 6,500 tons of munitions to Israel amid Iran tensions appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
SpaceX IPO and X Money Launch Push Dogecoin Whale Activity to Unprecedented $11.6 Billion by May 2026
The biggest Dogecoin whales now hold the highest amount of DOGE ever, likely positioning for the historic SpaceX IPO and X Money launch in the coming weeks.
Reddit (RDDT) Stock Soars 16% on Stellar Q1 Earnings Beat
Reddit (RDDT) stock surges 16% after crushing Q1 earnings with $663M revenue, $1.01 EPS, and strong Q2 guidance that topped Wall Street projections. The post Reddit (RDDT) Stock Soars 16% on Stellar Q1 Earnings Beat appeared first on Blockonomi.
SBI Holdings Pursues Bitbank Takeover in Bold Japan Crypto Expansion Play
SBI Holdings pursues Bitbank acquisition to strengthen Japan crypto market control amid tightening regulations and industry consolidation. The post SBI Holdings Pursues Bitbank Takeover in Bold Japan Crypto Expansion Play appeared first on Blockonomi.
Riot Q1 results show Bitcoin pressure and AI data center growth
Riot reports $167.2M Q1 revenue, sells 3,778 BTC, and expands AMD data center capacity to 50 MW.
Bitcoin Miner Riot Platforms Offloads Another 500 BTC to NYDIG, Extending Sell Streak
Bitcoin miner Riot Platforms has deposited another 500 BTC, worth $38.24 million, to institutional custodian NYDIG, extending one of the most consistent miner-selling patterns of 2026. Key Takeaways: Riot deposited 500 BTC worth $38.24M to NYDIG, extending its sustained 2026 sell streak. The move adds persistent supply pressure from one of the largest publicly listed […]
Iran to submit revised peace proposal after Trump rejection: CNN
Iran's revised peace proposal signals ongoing diplomatic efforts, potentially easing tensions and fostering future US-Iran dialogue opportunities. The post Iran to submit revised peace proposal after Trump rejection: CNN appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
ECB holds rates amid Middle East tensions, inflation concerns persist
The ECB's cautious stance on rates amid geopolitical tensions may prolong inflationary pressures, impacting future monetary policy flexibility. The post ECB holds rates amid Middle East tensions, inflation concerns persist appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Ethereum ETF outflows hit $23.6M amid price uncertainty
Investor skepticism and geopolitical factors may hinder Ethereum's growth, impacting its market position and long-term price expectations. The post Ethereum ETF outflows hit $23.6M amid price uncertainty appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
US-Venezuela oil talks may boost supply, pressure crude prices
Increased US-Venezuela oil collaboration may stabilize global markets, potentially lowering crude prices and altering geopolitical dynamics. The post US-Venezuela oil talks may boost supply, pressure crude prices appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
Bitcoin seals best monthly gain in a year as S&P 500 hits fresh all-time high
Bitcoin finished April above $76,000 to preserve most of its monthly gains, but the S&P; 500 stole the limelight with a trip back to record highs.
Apple shares rise 2.6% premarket on strong Q3 sales guidance
Apple's strong sales guidance boosts its market position, yet NVIDIA remains a formidable contender for the top market cap spot. The post Apple shares rise 2.6% premarket on strong Q3 sales guidance appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
US Navy blockade exposes gaps in Iran’s Strait of Hormuz strategy
The U.S. Navy's blockade highlights strategic vulnerabilities in Iran's approach, potentially prolonging regional tensions and market instability. The post US Navy blockade exposes gaps in Iran’s Strait of Hormuz strategy appeared first on Crypto Briefing.
A fresh crypto presale pick, BlockchainFX rises next to Ethereum price prediction news
Crypto price forecasts remain central in 2026 as BlockchainFX gains investor attention amid market shifts. What makes a smart crypto price prediction matter in 2026? Today’s crypto market cap sits near $2.56T, 24h volume is about $129.43B, and Ethereum (ETH)…
SanDisk (SNDK) Stock Declines 5% After Stellar Q3 Earnings Report
SanDisk (SNDK) shares fell 5% despite Q3 revenue of $5.95B, beating estimates by over $1B, and EPS of $23.41 surpassing forecasts by $8.75 per share. The post SanDisk (SNDK) Stock Declines 5% After Stellar Q3 Earnings Report appeared first on Blockonomi.
Western Digital (WDC) Stock Surges 5% on Record Q3 Performance and Strong Cloud Demand
Western Digital (WDC) stock jumped 5% after reporting Q3 revenue of $3.34B, up 45% YoY, with EPS of $2.72 beating estimates. TD Cowen ups target to $500. The post Western Digital (WDC) Stock Surges 5% on Record Q3 Performance and Strong Cloud Demand appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin upside capped by $82K sell wall after UAE exits OPEC
Geopolitical tensions and market volatility may hinder Bitcoin's growth, reflecting broader economic uncertainties and inflationary pressures. The post Bitcoin upside capped by $82K sell wall after UAE exits OPEC appeared first on Crypto Briefing.