The stock rally amid rising bond yields suggests investor confidence in economic resilience, but narrow market participation may signal fragility. The post Wall Street’s stock rally persists despite surge in US bond yields appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

HIVE's pivot to AI infrastructure highlights a broader trend of crypto miners leveraging existing power assets for more stable revenue streams. The post HIVE surges 35% after announcing 320MW AI gigafactory plans appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The recent outflows highlight the volatility and regional differences in crypto investment sentiment, signaling a shift in institutional strategies. The post CoinShares reports $1.1B in outflows from crypto ETPs and ETFs last week appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Geopolitical tensions and oil price spikes highlight crypto's vulnerability to external shocks, challenging its "uncorrelated asset" status. The post Oil spike and Iran ultimatum pull crypto markets lower appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The White House says it has achieved a legal and custody “breakthrough” for the US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, finally giving Washington a compliant way to safeguard billions in seized BTC. The White House has confirmed a major operational breakthrough for…

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The new US-China trade deals may foster improved diplomatic relations, potentially leading to increased bilateral engagements and cooperation. The post Trump announces new US-China deals on Boeing jets, agriculture appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Geopolitical tensions and market volatility highlight the fragility of Bitcoin's bullish momentum, emphasizing the need for stable institutional support. The post Bitcoin slides below $77,000 as Trump warns Iran, triggering broad selloff appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Commerzbank's rejection highlights tensions in cross-border mergers, emphasizing national economic sovereignty and labor influence in corporate governance. The post Commerzbank rejects UniCredit’s €37B takeover bid as too low appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Ether price fell sharply below $2,100 as increasing sell pressure on Binance and persistent ETF outflows fueled bearish momentum.

Bitcoin Magazine Standard Chartered to Absorb Zodia Custody’s Core Business in Digital Asset Consolidation Standard Chartered announced Monday that its non-binding offer to acquire Zodia Custody — the digital asset custodian it co-founded in 2020. This post Standard Chartered to Absorb Zodia Custody’s Core Business in Digital Asset Consolidation first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

Rising bond yields could trigger higher borrowing costs globally, impacting government budgets, corporate financing, and consumer spending. The post Global bond rout deepens as Middle East war fuels inflation fears appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Bitcoin Magazine Capital B Acquires 192 Bitcoin for €13 Million, Pushes Total Holdings to 3,135 BTC Capital B, formerly The Blockchain Group, added 192 BTC for €13 million, pushing its total holdings to 3,135 BTC. This post Capital B Acquires 192 Bitcoin for €13 Million, Pushes Total Holdings to 3,135 BTC first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

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ZachXBT, a well-known on-chain forensic investigator, is ramping up his efforts against alleged price market manipulation and will be using personal funds to hunt down what he calls ‘systemic abuse’ perpetrated by many trading platforms. Recently, he announced the launch of a $10K bounty for information about the capital gains team at the Hong Kong-based market maker Heisenberg Gurus (HSBG) which has fueled fierce discussion within crypto. Made public on his social media portals, the ransom is presented as a narrowly tailored investigation but also part of a larger project to put pressure on non-transparent trading practices. HSBG has been The post ZachXBT Offers $10,000 Bounty To Expose Apparent Market Manipulation By Hong Kong Firm HSBG appeared first on The Merkle News.

The EU's tougher trade measures could reshape global supply chains, impacting strategic industries and altering EU-China economic dynamics. The post EU plans tougher trade measures to counter Chinese export surge appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The US and Germany anchor a 70% surge in global XRP ETF inflows, defying a broader $1.074 billion flight from the market ahead of the CLARITY Act vote.

From May 11 to 15, cryptocurrency investment products experienced an outflow of $1.07 billion—the first in seven weeks and the third largest for the entire year of 2026. Crypto ETPs and ETFs saw outflows of US$1.1B last week.@Bitcoin saw US$982M of outflows. @ethereum saw outflows of US$249M, its largest since 30th January. Altcoins held up notably well. XRP (@Ripple) recorded US$67.6M of inflows and @solana US$55.1M, both accelerating on… pic.twitter.com/EJjwcZqzMu— CoinShares (@CoinSharesCo) May 18, 2026   According to a CoinShares report, the total assets under management decreased from $159 billion to $157 billion. The primary impact was on Bitcoin and Ethereum, although some altcoins continued to attract capital. Analysts linked market pressure to investor concerns about risky investments due to escalating tensions around Iran. Bitcoin and Ethereum Lead the Outflow Funds based on the first cryptocurrency lost $982 million. Since the beginning of the year, net inflows into products have decreased to $3.9 billion. Source: CoinShares. Ethereum funds recorded an outflow of $249 million—the largest since January 30. Blockchain company stock ETFs also came under pressure, with investors withdrawing $133 million. CoinShares noted that negative sentiment intensified amid geopolitical tensions around Iran. However, the discussion of the CLARITY Act in the United States partially supported the market—with crypto funds even showing a positive daily inflow of $174 million on Thursday. Investors Shift Focus to Altcoins Despite the overall outflow, several digital assets demonstrated resilient demand. Significant inflows were recorded by: XRP — $67.6 million; Solana — $55.1 million; Toncoin — $7.7 million; Sui — $4.7 million; Ondo — $4.1 million; Chainlink — $3.9 million; Dogecoin — $3.2 million. In total, 11 assets recorded positive capital flows, which analysts interpreted as a sign of a more selective approach by investors. U.S. Sells, Europe Buys The main outflow was from the United States—$1.14 billion. Meanwhile, European investors maintained a positive outlook: Switzerland attracted $22.8 million; Germany — $22 million; The Netherlands — $7.5 million. Conversely, Canada recorded an outflow of $12.6 million. Source: CoinShares. Earlier, from May 4 to 8, inflows into exchange-traded cryptocurrency products amounted to $857.9 million.

US-based global investment bank Goldman Sachs is betting big on XRP, with reports revealing a massive stake in XRP Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). The move comes as the regulatory conditions around XRP become clearer, prompting many institutions to begin accumulating the cryptocurrency globally.  How Much Goldman Sachs Has Invested In XRP ETFs A crypto and […]

A sharp reversal saw bitcoin funds snap a six-week inflow streak, recording $1 billion in net outflows. Ether products also remained under pressure, while XRP and solana ETFs emerged as relative bright spots, continuing to attract fresh institutional capital. Franklin and Bitwise Drive XRP ETF Gains as Bitcoin Sentiment Weakens The mood in digital asset […]

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Institutional cross-border payment giant Ripple is officially facing a disruptive challenge from high-throughput Layer 2 protocols engineered for the next generation of retail finance. While legacy tokens command massive market valuations due to institutional backing, savvy market participants are executing a major liquidity rotation into decentralized networks that fix immediate, real-world utility gaps. Financial ecosystems [...] The post You Missed The Historic XRP Move But This Is Your Last Chance: DOGEBALL Presale Stage Changes At Exactly 21:00 UTC Today To Crown The Best Cryptos To Invest In 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.

Tom Lee said Bitmine expects to reach its long-term goal of owning 5% of Ethereum's supply sometime during 2026.

The establishment of secure AI bases like Project Spire could reshape global tech alliances, intensifying the US-China tech rivalry and impacting supply chains. The post US considers Project Spire for secure AI base in Israel’s Negev appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The gigafactory could significantly boost Canada's AI capabilities, reduce reliance on US data centers, and create numerous high-skill jobs. The post BUZZ HPC advances 320 MW AI gigafactory in Greater Toronto Area appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The US's rejection of Iran's proposal signals prolonged diplomatic tensions, potentially impacting regional stability and global markets. The post US rejects Iran peace proposal ahead of Situation Room meeting: Axios appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

MicroStrategy has completed a massive purchase of $2.01 billion worth of Bitcoin, marking one of its biggest Bitcoin purchases in recent weeks.

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The joint framework could enhance market efficiency and competitiveness, fostering innovation and potentially reshaping global financial systems. The post Bank of England and FCA unveil joint framework to accelerate tokenization across wholesale markets appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Bitcoin Depot files for Chapter 11 in Texas, plans asset sale and wind-down as regulatory pressure forces shutdown of its Bitcoin ATM network.

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The FCA and Bank of England are seeking feedback on new tokenization guidance and plans to extend operating hours for the UK’s core payment and settlement infrastructure toward near-24/7 availability.

A bullish long-term chart pattern puts HYPE on track for a potential rally above $70 this year, with a16z-linked accumulation and fresh institutional catalysts strengthening the case.

Over 600 million Chinese residents have already used some form of AI application. The pace of integrating this technology into daily life is remarkable, writes The Economist. "The country is rapidly moving towards a future where artificial intelligence will select, purchase, and deliver many goods and services, fundamentally transforming the digital economy," the article states. The publication noted that to have coffee delivered to an office in Shanghai, one only needs to ask an app to choose the drink and confirm the order—it will be dispatched immediately. However, outsourcing such decisions carries risks. A journalist from The Economist, upon requesting a "special" coffee, received a drink with a vinegar taste and rose petals. The Third Internet Era Chinese internet users have experienced two eras of internet development: since the early 2000s, most used the Baidu search engine; after Google's departure at the end of the decade, Baidu became a monopoly and began aggressively monetizing services, leading to user dissatisfaction. With the spread of smartphones, they turned to super-apps—applications combining shopping, entertainment, communication, and payments. As a result, major tech companies like Alibaba, ByteDance, and Tencent have extensive portfolios of digital services and logistics networks, which can be used to develop autonomous solutions for various user tasks. Any of these tech giants could become a leader in the new era of China's internet. The chaotic AI race has already begun, writes The Economist. On May 11, Alibaba fully integrated its chatbot Qwen into the Taobao shopping app. This allows users to purchase a wide range of goods and services with simple commands. ByteDance is preparing for a similar release—merging Doubao with Douyin. Tencent has become the "dark horse" in this race. Its investments in AI models were initially modest, but over the past six months, it has completely restructured its AI team. The firm's new model—Hy3—is in the testing phase and shows promising results. Tencent is gradually integrating it into WeChat. AI Super-Apps AI-based super-apps could become an attractive source of growth during a period of low consumer spending in China. The adjusted operating profit of Alibaba's Chinese e-commerce division in the first quarter of 2026 fell by 40% compared to the same period last year. The company's cloud business is thriving, but this growth requires massive capital investment. Chinese tech giants claim their AI super-apps do not promote advertised products. However, they may need to change this policy, The Economist notes. An Element of Protection Chinese firms may fear the emergence of AI-based devices with built-in operating system agent functions that could displace super-apps. OpenAI is working on such a gadget. The new product can fully understand the user's environment and life. It is unobtrusive, can fit in a pocket or on a table, and "will become the third main device after the MacBook Pro and iPhone." ByteDance attempted a similar release in December, launching a smartphone with a pre-installed AI assistant in collaboration with electronics manufacturer ZTE. The project failed, partly because Alibaba and Tencent blocked its access to their payment platforms. In March, Xiaomi announced the release of new AI models to be integrated into smartphones and cars. Huawei may also join this battle. As China's internet enters a new era, it faces fierce competition for dominance, The Economist concluded. In August 2025, China outlined its national AI integration goals.

Strategy has acquired 24,869 BTC for $2.01 billion. According to a report filed with the SEC, the transactions occurred between May 11 and May 17 at an average price of $80,985. Strategy has acquired 24,869 BTC for ~$2.01 billion at ~$80,985 per bitcoin and has achieved BTC Yield of 12.6% YTD 2026. As of 5/17/2026, we hodl 843,738 $BTC acquired for ~$63.87 billion at ~$75,700 per bitcoin. $MSTR $STRC https://t.co/y1zvePEuym— Michael Saylor (@saylor) May 18, 2026 The firm holds 843,738 BTC valued at approximately $65.3 billion—over 4% of the total supply of the leading cryptocurrency. The average purchase price over time was $75,700. The company's "paper" profit has reached $1.4 billion. To finance the purchases, Strategy sold common shares of MSTR for $83.7 million and preferred shares of STRC for $1.95 billion. The company retains limits for further securities sales under existing programs. On May 14, Strategy agreed to repurchase zero-coupon convertible bonds maturing in 2029. The nominal value is $1.5 billion, with a buyback price of approximately $1.38 billion. Among potential funding sources, the company mentioned selling the leading cryptocurrency—contradicting the previously stated "pure accumulation" policy by Michael Saylor. Analysts at K33 noted that high demand for STRC creates regular buying pressure for bitcoin in the middle of each month. The company itself proposed paying dividends on these shares twice a month instead of once to enhance liquidity. AI Research Analyst Willy Woo published the results of an audit of STRC conducted using two AI models—Grok and Gemini Pro: he asked the neural networks to assess the risks of the yield instrument. I ask Grok and Gemini to assess the risks investing in Strategy's $STRC yield instrument. Then I asked it to estimate a yield that would fairly compensate the investor for the risk undertaken.Both concluded 11.5% was underpaying for the risk.Grok: 17-22% APYGemini: 16% APY— Willy Woo (@willywoo) May 11, 2026 The main question was whether the current yield of 11.5% adequately compensates for the risks undertaken. Both AIs concluded that investors are significantly underpaid. According to Gemini Pro's analysis, a fair yield should be 16%. The Grok neural network was even more conservative, estimating the necessary payout range at 17-22% annually. Gemini's detailed report stated that the current rate of 11.5% is "significantly overestimated" and does not account for the lack of direct asset backing, as well as risks related to bitcoin concentration and potential liquidity loss. Grok emphasized in its summary that the instrument is effectively a "leveraged bitcoin proxy disguised as a yield instrument," and the current rate reflects market enthusiasm rather than real risk compensation. BitMine Increases Assets to $12.6 Billion BitMine Immersion Technologies has accumulated 5.28 million ETH—4.37% of the total market supply of the cryptocurrency. The platform's total assets have reached $12.6 billion. This sum includes: Ethereum worth $11.5 billion; 202 BTC; stakes in Eightco and Beast Industries valued at $283 million; $685 million in cash. BitMine maintains its lead in Ethereum reserves among public companies. In the global crypto treasury ranking, it ranks second, only behind Strategy. Approximately 4.7 million ETH has been placed in the company's own staking service, MAVAN. The current yield is 2.8% annually, bringing BitMine about $289 million per year. The company plans to increase its ETH holdings to 5%. BitMine Chairman Tom Lee linked the growth in metrics to institutional interest in blockchain and the potential adoption of the CLARITY Act in the U.S. Senate. In his view, the document will create transparent rules for the industry. Back in May, Lee stated that the company had nearly reached its goal of accumulating Ethereum and plans to slow down its purchasing pace.  

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AI infrastructure is driving a memory chip shortage. Explore why Micron (MU), SK Hynix, SanDisk, and Western Digital are attracting investor attention in 2026. The post Memory Chip Stocks to Watch: Micron (MU), SK Hynix, and Western Digital Lead AI Boom appeared first on Blockonomi.

Evercore ISI targets S&P 500 at 7,750 (bull case 9,000) for 2026, while RBC sees 7,900. AI stocks drive both forecasts with significant upside potential. The post S&P 500 Could Hit 9,000 by End of 2026: Evercore ISI’s Bull Case Scenario appeared first on Blockonomi.

Gold prices fluctuate as Middle East tensions escalate with UAE drone attacks and failed peace talks, while global bond yields ease after recent selloff. The post Gold Markets Fluctuate Amid Middle East Tensions and Shifting Bond Yields appeared first on Blockonomi.

Kooc Media has introduced a specialist PR service built specifically for artificial intelligence companies. The agency, known for its work across the crypto, fintech, iGaming and technology sectors since 2017, is now accepting AI startups, AI SaaS providers, machine learning companies and AI tool developers as clients. Full package details are available on the Kooc [...] The post Kooc Media Introduces Specialist PR for Artificial Intelligence Companies appeared first on Blockonomi.

Bitmine Immersion Technologies now holds 5.28 million ethereum tokens worth more than $11.5 billion, putting the company within reach of controlling 5% of the entire ETH supply. Tom Lee Says Bitmine Will Hit 5% of ETH Supply Sometime in 2026 The Norwalk, Conn.-based company reported the figures as of May 18, 2026, disclosing total crypto, […]

Peak Treasury yields may signal a strategic entry point, potentially stabilizing markets and offering attractive returns for diversified portfolios. The post Yardeni Research sees peak Treasury yields creating buying opportunity for stocks and bonds appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Goldman's shift highlights a growing institutional preference for Bitcoin over altcoins, potentially reshaping crypto investment dynamics. The post Goldman Sachs dumps XRP and Solana ETFs entirely, doubles down on Bitcoin appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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The use of blockchain by sanctioned entities highlights the challenges of enforcing financial regulations in decentralized systems. The post Nobitex processed $2.3B on Tron and BNB Chain since 2023, Reuters investigation finds appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Meta (META) stock slips as company announces 8,000 job cuts and cancels 6,000 open roles, while increasing 2026 AI capital expenditure to $145 billion. The post Meta Platforms (META) Eliminates 8,000 Positions Amid $145B AI Investment Push appeared first on Blockonomi.

LiveRamp (RAMP) stock jumped 27% after Publicis announced a $2.55B acquisition at $38.50/share, targeting AI agent data capabilities with a 30% premium. The post Publicis Acquires LiveRamp (RAMP) for $2.55B in Major AI Data Integration Move appeared first on Blockonomi.

Microsoft (MSFT) trades at $421, down 30% from highs. Q3 earnings crushed estimates, and analysts project significant upside. Here's the bull case. The post Microsoft (MSFT) Stock Down 30% From Peak: Why Bulls See $600 Ahead appeared first on Blockonomi.

Bitmine (BMNR) stock dropped 4.10% Monday as investors focused on its 5.28M ETH treasury, NYSE uplisting, and $10.3B staked Ethereum position. The post Bitmine (BMNR) Stock Declines 4.10% Despite Massive $12.6B Ethereum Treasury appeared first on Blockonomi.

Hyperliquid whales now hold $4.039b in open interest with a near‑neutral long–short split, and both sides sitting on millions in unrealized losses after choppy price action. Whale traders on decentralized derivatives platform Hyperliquid (HYPE) currently hold a combined $4.039 billion…

Justin Sun moved 41.99m Spark worth $1.23m from Spark to HTX, adding to roughly 610m SPK in exchange-bound flows since 2025 and renewing sell-pressure and governance worries. Justin Sun has resumed large Spark (SPK) withdrawals from Spark, moving 41.99 million…

The online gambling industry has long been shaped by a handful of major operators. Bet365 and 888casino sit near the top of that list. Both have spent years building their reputations, expanding their game libraries, and attracting millions of players worldwide. But the market is shifting. A new wave of crypto-focused platforms is emerging, and [...] The post Bet365 vs 888casino: Established Leaders and the Growth of ZunaBet appeared first on Blockonomi.

Vitalik Buterin says AI‑assisted formal verification could be the “final form” of software, letting Ethereum ship ultra‑optimized code with machine‑checked proofs of correctness. Ethereum (ETH) co‑founder Vitalik Buterin has said that combining artificial intelligence with formal verification could become the…

AEON raised $8m led by YZi Labs to build an AI-native settlement layer, using its x402 protocol on BNB Chain to let agents pay 50m+ merchants via on-chain receipts. AEON has completed an $8 million pre-seed funding round to build…

HIVE Digital (HIVE) stock jumped 40% after announcing a C$3.5B AI gigafactory in Toronto. The facility will support 320 MW capacity and 100,000+ GPUs. The post HIVE Digital (HIVE) Stock Rockets 40% on C$3.5B AI Gigafactory Announcement in Toronto appeared first on Blockonomi.

Salesforce (CRM) stock falls near 52-week low as BofA warns of AI monetization issues, limited growth, and weak customer additions despite strong Q4 results. The post Salesforce (CRM) Stock Tumbles 25% as Bank of America Warns on AI Revenue Model appeared first on Blockonomi.

Bitmine added 71,672 Ethereum in one week, lifting holdings to 5.28M ETH, or 4.37% of supply, with $12.6B in crypto and cash.

Tether’s undisclosed LemFi investment wires USDT into African and Asian remittance corridors, swapping slow SWIFT transfers for near‑instant, low‑fee stablecoin settlement. Tether has announced a strategic investment in LemFi, a UK‑headquartered cross‑border financial platform used by African and Asian diaspora…

Goldman's shift towards Bitcoin and regulated blockchain firms highlights a trend of institutional preference for more stable crypto investments. The post Goldman Sachs exits XRP and Solana ETFs, raises Bitcoin call options stake appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

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Australia's move to limit Chinese influence in critical minerals highlights growing geopolitical tensions and the strategic importance of resource independence. The post Australia orders China-linked investors to divest Northern Minerals stake appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Elon Musk's SpaceX’s Bitcoin bag revealed amid growing corporate BTC interest.

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Hims & Hers (HIMS) stock tumbled 7% Monday after the company disclosed a $300M convertible notes offering to finance international growth and acquisitions. The post Hims & Hers (HIMS) Stock Tumbles 7% Following $300M Convertible Notes Announcement appeared first on Blockonomi.

Morgan Stanley upgrades Lam Research (LRCX) stock to Overweight with $331 price target, citing 59% NAND growth forecast for 2027. Analysis inside. The post Lam Research (LRCX) Stock: Morgan Stanley’s Bold Upgrade Signals Major NAND Recovery Ahead appeared first on Blockonomi.

Citi analysts see buying opportunities in aerospace and defense stocks after sharp selloff, raising targets on Boeing, Howmet, and upgrading views on Lockheed. The post Citi Analysts Identify Buying Opportunities in Aerospace and Defense Sector After Steep Decline appeared first on Blockonomi.

DeFi yields on blue-chip stablecoins now trail bank cash and tokenized Treasuries, forcing CoinEx to pitch Flexible Savings as a liquidity tool, not a rate stunt. CoinEx’s pitch for crypto-denominated savings now lands in a market where, for the first…

Bitcoin trades between $76,900 to $77,465 on May 18, 2026, at 9:40 a.m. ET as traders assess mixed technical signals across multiple timeframes. While broader trend structure remains constructive above major support zones, short-term momentum indicators continue to reflect a cautious tone amid resistance near the $78,400 area. Bitcoin Chart Outlook On the 1-hour chart, […]

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Standard Chartered will absorb Zodia Custody’s regulated crypto business and spin out Zodia Solutions, as big banks move to own core digital asset custody in-house.

Michael Saylor’s Strategy bought 24,869 Bitcoin for $2.01 billion last week, lifting holdings to 843,738 BTC as STRC sales funded around 97% of the acquisition.

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EUR 1 billion note programme planned for 2026 following completion of global issuance infrastructure by the end of Q3 2026.

Crypto ETPs lost $1.07B last week as Bitcoin shed $982M and Ethereum lost $249M, while XRP and Solana still drew inflows.

Formula by Cointelegraph PR head Katerina Zemskova says AI-fueled content saturation has pushed Web3 projects to ditch rigid retainers and build founder-led, macro-aware narratives instead of generic press blitzes. The Web3 public relations industry is sliding into what Formula by…

A member of the Ripple community has called out Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson for helping derail XRP’s growth through the ETHgate saga. In response, Hoskinson has defended himself, arguing that it is impossible he was involved in the XRP lawsuit.  Cardano Founder Accused Of Derailing XRP’s Growth In an X post, Ripple community member Wino […]

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European airlines may face operational and financial challenges due to heightened geopolitical tensions affecting regional logistics and airspace. The post Ryanair CEO warns European airlines face risks from Iran conflict appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The XRPL developers have confirmed that widespread social media offers of a Ripple USD (RLUSD) airdrop are a coordinated phishing scam.

The Iranian authorities have launched the digital platform Hormuz Safe for insuring ships in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. The service accepts payment in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, reports Fars News Agency. The project is overseen by the country's Ministry of Economy. The main aim of the platform is to circumvent the SWIFT system and Western intermediaries amid sanctions. The insurance covers risks of inspection, detention, and confiscation of ships. According to Fars, Iranian authorities expect to earn over $10 billion if the platform succeeds. Previously, industry representatives discussed collecting transit fees from tankers in Bitcoin or yuan. Such payments could reach $2 million per vessel, depending on the cargo volume. Hormuz Safe promises shipping companies quick verification and settlements "at blockchain speed." However, the platform lacks international recognition, and its use risks secondary sanctions from the United States. Amid this backdrop, Bitcoin's price adjusted below $77,000. At the time of writing, the digital gold is trading at $76,854 (-1.9% for the day). Hourly chart of BTC/USDT on Binance. Source: TradingView. In April, analysts at QCP stated that the resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz does not guarantee the lifting of supply restrictions or a reduction in inflationary pressure due to rising oil prices. 

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The cryptocurrency ATM operator Bitcoin Depot has filed for bankruptcy in Texas. The company plans to cease operations entirely and liquidate its assets. CEO Alex Holmes attributed the decision to regulatory pressure. He noted that states have tightened compliance requirements, imposed transaction limits, and in some regions, completely banned the operation of crypto ATMs. The Bitcoin Depot network has already been shut down. The liquidation will affect divisions in the US and other countries, including Canada. The company's troubles intensified in March after its license was revoked in Connecticut. At that time, Bitcoin Depot underwent a leadership change, and its revenue forecast dropped by 40%. In April, the operator's systems were hacked, resulting in a $3.7 million theft. According to a preliminary report, Bitcoin Depot's revenue for the first quarter nearly halved. The net loss amounted to $9.5 million compared to a profit of $12.2 million the previous year. The company cited the inability to operate under new restrictions as the main reason for its financial difficulties. Founded in 2016, Bitcoin Depot's network once boasted over 9,000 devices, making it the largest crypto ATM operator in North America. Over the past six months, the company's shares on Nasdaq have plummeted by 94.06%. Source: Google Finance. In November 2025, the bitcoin ATM operator Crypto Dispensers announced the sale of its business for $100 million. The reason was the criminal prosecution of the company's CEO.

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Mike Novogratz’s Galaxy Digital has partnered with Ethereum treasury firm Sharplink to launch a $125 million private DeFi fund.

Ondas (ONDS) stock climbed 1.5% premarket after announcing the acquisition of Omnisys, an Israeli AI defense software firm with 25 years of proven results. The post Ondas (ONDS) Stock Climbs After Announcing Acquisition of Israeli AI Defense Firm Omnisys appeared first on Blockonomi.

[PRESS RELEASE – Johannesburg, South Africa, May 18th, 2026] VALR, Africa’s leading digital asset infrastructure provider, served as diamond sponsor of the Kenya Blockchain & Crypto Conference held in Nairobi on 14 and 15 May 2026. Peter Mwangi, VALR’s newly appointed Country Manager for Kenya, delivered a keynote address in which he outlined his vision […]

The Philippines' AI hub plan could reshape regional tech dynamics, influencing global supply chains and deepening US-Philippines ties. The post Philippines joins Pax Silica to advance 4,000-acre AI hub plan appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The rapid depletion of oil inventories could lead to sustained price hikes, impacting global economies and increasing geopolitical tensions. The post IEA warns commercial oil inventories are falling at an unprecedented pace appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

China's economic slowdown could dampen global commodity demand, influence inflation expectations, and prompt potential stimulus measures. The post China’s economy slows as consumption and output disappoint in April appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Bitcoin's brutal sell-off may continue as panic spreads from long-term holders to short-term traders across markets.

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Bitcoin Magazine Bitcoin Depot (BTM) Stock Falls 80% As Company Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Bitcoin Depot (NASDAQ: BTM), once the largest Bitcoin ATM operator in North America, filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas. The Atlanta-based fintech company said it intends to wind down all operations and pursue a sale of its assets — marking one […] This post Bitcoin Depot (BTM) Stock Falls 80% As Company Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

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Korea's FSC reviews Hana Bank's $700M Dunamu stake purchase, testing bank-commerce rules as financial institutions seek crypto exchange exposure. The post South Korea’s FSC Scrutinizes Hana Bank’s $700M Investment in Upbit Owner Dunamu appeared first on Blockonomi.

Ford (F) stock jumps 6.9% premarket on EDF battery deal and seven new European vehicles. Ford Pro subscriptions grow 30% as software business expands. The post Ford (F) Stock Surges 7% on EDF Energy Partnership and European Expansion Plans appeared first on Blockonomi.

Standard Chartered will absorb Zodia Custody’s regulated business and spin out Zodia Solutions as banks build crypto custody in-house.

Warsh's leadership may signal a shift towards Fed independence and gradual policy changes, impacting market expectations and monetary strategy. The post Kevin Warsh confirmed as Federal Reserve Chair, Powell exit priced by 2026 appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The ongoing conflict strains Israel-Lebanon relations, hindering diplomatic efforts and reducing the likelihood of Israeli withdrawal. The post Israeli military actions in Lebanon persist despite ceasefire extension appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Shiba Inu's metrics show an increasing volatility, but unfortunately it's not going in the direction you'd expect.

State-level political spending by tech giants could reshape regulatory landscapes, influencing national policies through local elections. The post DraftKings, Meta, Andreessen Horowitz spend millions on state elections appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

The conflict's economic strain on global firms highlights vulnerabilities in supply chains and energy dependence, prompting strategic reassessments. The post Iran war costs global companies $25B and rising as oil tops $100 per barrel appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

KB Financial completed a won stablecoin pilot for offline QR payments and Vietnam remittances, cutting fees 87% as Korea crypto rules wait.

Bitcoin Magazine Iran Launches Bitcoin-Backed Insurance Service for Strait of Hormuz Shipping, Eyes $10B In Revenue Iran has reportedly launched “Hormuz Safe,” a bitcoin-settled maritime insurance platform aimed at cargo owners and shipping firms operating through the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. This post Iran Launches Bitcoin-Backed Insurance Service for Strait of Hormuz Shipping, Eyes $10B In Revenue first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

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Strategy (MSTR) adds 24,869 BTC for $2B, pushing holdings to 843,738 coins. Stock drops 2.5% as company funds purchase via STRC preferred shares. The post Strategy (MSTR) Stock Slides as Saylor Acquires Another $2B in Bitcoin appeared first on Blockonomi.

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Iran’s Hormuz Safe offers Bitcoin-settled insurance for Hormuz shipping, aiming for $10B revenue while testing US sanctions limits and spooking regulators and shippers. Iran’s Ministry of Economy has launched a Bitcoin (BTC) settled maritime insurance platform called “Hormuz Safe,” targeting…

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The parent company of South Korea’s largest bank completed a stablecoin payment pilot ahead of the country's proposed digital asset framework.

FCA and Bank of England launch consultation on UK tokenization rules for wholesale markets, with July 2026 deadline for industry feedback on securities framework. The post UK Financial Regulators Launch Tokenization Consultation With July 2026 Deadline appeared first on Blockonomi.

Apollo chief economist Torsten Slok says AI is now driving nearly half of all investment‑grade issuance and most VC funding, turning the AI boom into a full credit market cycle. Artificial intelligence has moved well beyond the stock market. According…

Bitcoin Depot entered Chapter 11 to wind down operations, sell assets, and shut its bitcoin ATM network as state rules tighten. The company cited new compliance burdens, transaction limits, and restrictions affecting BTM operators. Bitcoin Depot Begins Chapter 11 Process Amid Regulatory Pressure Bitcoin Depot Inc. (Nasdaq: BTM) announced on May 18 that it initiated […]

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XRP Ledger begins to move past Ethereum in the fast-growing world of tokenization, surpassing a massive $1.5 billion in net flows while Ethereum stays in the red.

Intel (INTC) stock rises after Trump says he regrets not asking for more than 10% stake. Earnings beat estimates, but analysts remain cautious on valuation. The post Intel (INTC) Stock Surges as Trump Expresses Regret Over 10% Stake Request appeared first on Blockonomi.

Goldman Sachs warns the 2025 market rally is heavily concentrated in AI stocks like Nvidia, with tech driving 85% of S&P 500 gains and limited upside ahead. The post Goldman Sachs Sounds Alarm on Tech-Heavy Market Rally Driven by AI Stocks appeared first on Blockonomi.

Chamath Palihapitiya says consulting giants are helping OpenAI and Anthropic build the firms that may replace them. Billionaire venture capitalist Chamath Palihapitiya issued a stark warning to the consulting industry on May 17, calling out PwC and Accenture by name…

Stock futures decline as oil hits $110 and Iran tensions boost Fed rate hike odds to 54%. Nvidia (NVDA) earnings Wednesday could shift sentiment. The post Stock Futures Tumble as Crude Oil Surges Past $110 Amid Escalating Iran Crisis appeared first on Blockonomi.

Tesla (TSLA) stock drops in premarket after CFO sells 3,000 shares for tax obligations. Insider sales reach $30.9M in three months with no purchases. The post Tesla (TSLA) Stock Dips as CFO Taneja Offloads Shares Worth $1.35M appeared first on Blockonomi.

NextNRG (NXXT) stock jumped 92% in premarket trading after Q1 revenue reached $21.1M, surpassing estimates as margins improved and losses narrowed significantly. The post NextNRG (NXXT) Stock Rockets Nearly 92% on Strong Q1 Earnings Performance appeared first on Blockonomi.