Blockonomi

TLDR:
BitGo announces Quantum Risk Score to measure exposure across Bitcoin wallet addresses.
New Fix Exposed Addresses workflow moves funds into keys with stronger hygiene practices.
UTXO selection method groups addresses by wallet to limit exposure from partial spends.
Belshe says safest key is one whose public key stays unrevealed on the blockchain.

BitGo is announcing new quantum risk management capabilities for bitcoin wallets. The launch adds a Quantum Risk Score, a guided workflow for exposed addresses, a new UTXO selection method, and updated default controls. These tools build on BitGo’s existing multi-signature architecture for institutional clients.
BitGo Rolls Out Quantum-Focused Wallet Controls Built On Multi-Signature Security
BitGo Holdings, Inc., trading as NYSE: BTGO, confirmed the launch as an expansion of its long-standing wallet security model.
The company built its reputation on multi-signature custody, a structure designed to remove single points of failure. This announcement adds quantum-focused tools directly into that same framework.
The centerpiece of the release is the Quantum Risk Score, a scoring system built into BitGo’s platform. It allows institutions to assess exposure levels across supported Bitcoin wallets in one place.
Clients can identify which addresses carry elevated risk due to public keys already visible on-chain. The score does not require a change to existing custody arrangements to be useful.
Paired with the score, BitGo introduced a guided remediation workflow named Fix Exposed Addresses. This tool walks clients through moving funds from higher-risk addresses into newly generated ones.
The new addresses follow improved key hygiene practices from the moment they are created. For institutions managing large wallet volumes, this removes much of the manual work involved.
Mike Belshe, CEO and Co-founder of BitGo, explained the reasoning behind the release. “We believe the safest key is one whose public key has never been revealed on-chain,” he said.
“These capabilities give institutions a practical way to understand and reduce quantum exposure while continuing to rely on the proven security of multi-signature.”
Additional Tools Target UTXO Handling And Wallet Defaults
Alongside the risk score, BitGo announced a new UTXO selection method aimed at reducing exposure from partial spends.
This method groups and prioritizes unspent transaction outputs by address instead of handling them separately. The approach limits how often public keys get revealed during normal wallet activity.
BitGo was clear that some address types fall outside this particular tool’s scope. Formats like Taproot and Pay-to-Public-Key expose a public key from the moment they are created.
Funds already held in those address types require separate remediation steps, a distinction BitGo highlighted directly in its announcement.
The company also announced updated default address-type controls as part of the same release. These changes adjust how new wallets behave by default, reducing reliance on patterns tied to added quantum-related exposure. BitGo positioned this update as a companion to future protocol-level changes rather than a substitute for them.
Adam Back, Co-Founder and CEO of Blockstream and BSTR, weighed in on the timing of the release. “Nobody has a quantum computer that can touch Bitcoin today, but that’s exactly why the work should start now, while it’s calm and optional rather than urgent and forced,” he said.
Belshe echoed that same view when describing the broader strategy behind the launch. “We believe institutions do not need to wait for a quantum event to begin managing quantum risk,” he added.
“The right approach is to reduce exposure now, harden wallet operations, and prepare for the migration from today’s security models to future post-quantum standards.”
BitGo maintained that institutions do not need to wait for an actual quantum event before acting. The announcement frames quantum risk management as routine operational hygiene, one step in a longer migration toward post-quantum wallet standards.
The post BitGo Announces Quantum Risk Tools for Bitcoin Wallet Security appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:
HPC and Phantom filed a joint letter urging CFTC to clarify registration rules for developers.
The letter asks CFTC to give registered exchanges a path to adopt onchain infrastructure.
HPC and Phantom want the Phantom no-action letter codified into a permanent formal rule.
The filing responds directly to a CFTC request on rules hindering market participants.
Hyperliquid Policy Center and Phantom have urged the CFTC to clarify that publishing onchain protocol software does not require registration.
The two firms submitted a joint comment letter this week addressing onchain market infrastructure. Their filing asks regulators to modernize outdated rules built around custodial intermediaries.
It calls for a clear registration pathway for exchanges adopting onchain systems. The letter also pushes to codify the existing Phantom no-action letter into formal policy.
HPC And Phantom Detail Registration Concerns
Hyperliquid Policy Center and Phantom compare software developers to internet service providers. The letter states “no one confuses either person for the other” between builders and brokers.
An internet provider supplies cables that let brokers take customer orders. The letter argues protocol developers deserve the same clear distinction under CFTC rules.
Digital asset builders have not received consistent treatment from past CFTC leadership. The letter notes developers were left “guessing whether they may be treated as operating an unregistered exchange.”
This ambiguity pushed many companies to build their products offshore instead. HPC and Phantom credit current leadership under Chairman Selig with shifting this approach.
Onchain markets differ structurally from traditional custodial trading systems, the letter notes. Legacy markets pass customer funds through brokers, exchanges, and clearinghouses sequentially.
The filing states onchain systems “let users hold their own funds and trade directly with one another.” Hyperliquid Policy Center and Phantom say regulation should reflect this fundamental difference.
Three recommendations anchor the joint submission to the Commission. Confirm first that publishing protocol software alone does not require registration.
Second, create pathways for registered exchanges to adopt onchain infrastructure directly. Third, convert the Phantom no-action letter into what the filing calls “a formal rule.”
Firms Frame Request As Path To Onshore Growth
HPC and Phantom present their proposal as a route to bring innovation onshore. The letter states protections can be built in “by design rather than by decree.”
Regulated intermediaries would continue handling responsibilities that code alone cannot resolve. This structure preserves protections while modernizing infrastructure for onchain derivatives markets.
The letter responds to a CFTC request asking which rules hinder market participants. HPC and Phantom write, “this is our answer, and it is within the Commission’s own authority to act on.”
They state the requested changes fall within the Commission’s existing regulatory authority. No new legislation would be required to implement these clarifications.
Codifying the Phantom no-action letter would benefit smaller non-custodial wallet providers broadly. The filing notes such firms would gain “durable certainty rather than having to ask, one at a time, for relief.”
Firms would gain lasting certainty instead of requesting individual relief repeatedly. This reduces friction for developers building non-custodial financial technology tools.
Existing registrants also stand to benefit from the proposed regulatory pathway. Exchanges and clearinghouses could retire legacy systems for transparent onchain alternatives instead.
Compliance obligations would remain intact under the new registration framework. HPC and Phantom describe this transition as advantageous for American consumers.
The joint letter reflects continued engagement between digital asset firms and federal regulators.
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Key Highlights
Kalshi is requesting regulatory clearance for perpetual futures covering gold, currencies, and energy.
The trading venue intends to move past cryptocurrency-focused derivative offerings.
Precious metals, particularly gold, represent a top strategic focus for upcoming launches.
Regulatory examination by the CFTC may establish precedents for energy-linked perpetual contracts.
Legacy derivative exchanges confront mounting competitive challenges from Kalshi’s strategic growth.
Kalshi has submitted applications to broaden its perpetual futures offerings into precious metals, currency pairs, and energy commodities. This strategic initiative represents an effort to extend its regulated derivatives framework beyond cryptocurrency markets. The expansion strategy positions Kalshi in direct rivalry with long-standing exchange platforms and retail-focused trading services.
Precious Metals Lead Kalshi’s Expansion Strategy
The trading platform has identified gold-linked perpetual futures as an initial priority amid expanding interest beyond digital currencies. Precious metals hold widespread recognition among both retail participants and institutional trading desks. Management views gold as an accessible gateway for introducing broader traditional asset exposure.
Unlike conventional futures agreements, perpetual contracts carry no fixed expiration dates. Market participants maintain positions indefinitely without needing to transition holdings into subsequent contract periods. Yet leveraged exposure amplifies potential profits and losses during volatile price movements.
Following CFTC authorization in May, Kalshi introduced regulated cryptocurrency perpetual futures that have accumulated approximately $16.1 billion in transaction volume. Building on that momentum, the platform seeks to deploy identical contract structures across conventional financial instruments.
Currency and Energy Markets Join Expansion Blueprint
The venue is simultaneously advancing products connected to currency exchange rates and energy commodities. These instrument categories frequently react to international tensions, production disruptions, and cyclical consumption patterns. Management identifies these characteristics as favorable attributes for sustained perpetual futures activity.
Company representatives report substantial progress in regulatory discussions regarding the planned product launches. The CFTC has additionally requested industry feedback concerning perpetual instruments linked to physically deliverable or inventory-based energy commodities. This consultation process may determine how petroleum products and related assets access regulated trading environments.
Future development may encompass contracts tracking equity indices and single-stock exposures. Nevertheless, metals, currencies, and energy commodities appear positioned as immediate priorities. Upon receiving approval, these instruments would operate during standard trading sessions rather than continuous 24-hour availability.
Perpetual Contract Approval Intensifies Market Competition
This development unfolds as established exchange operators evaluate competitive implications from regulated perpetual futures authorization. CME Group, Cboe Global Markets, Nasdaq, and Intercontinental Exchange have encountered pressure following CFTC approval decisions. These determinations sparked concerns regarding competitive dynamics within U.S. derivatives infrastructure.
CME Group has initiated legal proceedings against the CFTC and its leadership challenging approvals granted to Kalshi and Coinbase. The exchange contends that regulatory authorities advanced excessively fast on products carrying substantial market-wide consequences. Skeptics additionally caution that retail market participants may inadequately assess hazards associated with leveraged perpetual instruments.
Kalshi maintains that regulated market access channels offshore trading activity into supervised environments. Company estimates suggest international perpetual futures volume approached $90 trillion throughout the previous year. Consequently, its precious metals, currency, and energy initiative may gauge appetite for regulated alternatives within domestic markets.

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Key Takeaways
NATO unveils “Drone Edge” program allocating more than $40B for counter-UAV technology across five years
Four European nations—Norway, Finland, Germany, and Denmark—commit to purchasing up to five Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton reconnaissance drones
Russia’s Dronnitsa conference openly focuses its agenda on preparing for “large-scale conflict with NATO”
Russian drone manufacturers now produce millions of unmanned systems each year, maintaining production superiority
NATO aims to increase drone operator training fivefold before 2027 ends
Unmanned aerial vehicle technology is fundamentally transforming military readiness strategies for both NATO and Russia. From explosive-laden drones to artificially intelligent swarm systems, massive investments are flowing into UAV capabilities on both sides.
NATO Unveils Massive $40 Billion Counter-Drone Program
During this week’s summit in Ankara, NATO introduced its “Drone Edge” strategy. The comprehensive initiative allocates over $40 billion toward advanced counter-drone systems throughout the coming five years.
NATO expands its ability to deploy and operate drones at scale
At the #NATOsummit, Allies announced the NATO Drone Edge initiative, a major investment in counter-drone capabilities and drone training
Learn more → https://t.co/jGeWuFrZyN pic.twitter.com/MGYj1MR5rb
— NATO (@NATO) July 7, 2026
NATO’s Secretary General Mark Rutte additionally announced that member states will acquire up to five Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton high-altitude reconnaissance unmanned aircraft. A letter of intent formalizing this acquisition was signed by Norway, Finland, Germany, and Denmark.
These Triton systems will augment NATO’s current RQ-4D Phoenix drone fleet, which operates from Sigonella Air Base in Sicily. Both platforms trace their lineage to Northrop’s Global Hawk design, featuring a 35.4-meter wingspan and endurance exceeding 30 hours of continuous flight.
Additionally, NATO has committed to expanding its drone pilot training programs to produce five times the current number of qualified operators before 2027 concludes.
Russia’s Military Focus Shifts Toward NATO Confrontation
As NATO strengthens its defensive posture, Russia pursues its own strategic path. The upcoming Dronnitsa conference, Russia’s primary annual drone technology forum scheduled for August, explicitly centers on preparation for “major warfare with NATO.”
Samuel Bendett, a leading drone warfare analyst advising both CNA and CNAS research institutions, emphasizes the significance of this strategic pivot. He characterizes Dronnitsa as an operationally-focused gathering where field operators collaborate with manufacturers to develop actionable tactics and viable technology.
Russian defense manufacturers now output millions of unmanned systems annually. According to Bendett, this production capacity provides Russia with a significant, though potentially temporary, quantitative advantage over Western manufacturing capabilities.
Among the technologies under development are fiber-optic controlled drones, which prove substantially more resistant to electronic warfare jamming than conventional radio-controlled variants. These innovations emerge directly from operational experience gained during the Ukraine conflict.
Understanding the Evolution of Contemporary Drone Combat
Drones have evolved dramatically from reconnaissance platforms into primary offensive weapons systems. Throughout Ukraine, coordinated drone swarms have successfully targeted Russian petroleum facilities. Across the Middle East, Iranian-manufactured Shahed drones have created significant disruption to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormoz.
Contemporary loitering munitions cost substantially less than traditional cruise missiles while enabling mass deployment tactics. These systems can remain airborne for extended periods, engage mobile objectives, and utilize low-altitude flight profiles that evade conventional radar systems.
Looking forward, NATO analysts project that future drone warfare will incorporate artificially intelligent swarm coordination, directed-energy interception networks, underwater-launched aerial systems, and additive-manufactured munitions.
The technological competition between offensive drone capabilities and counter-drone defenses continues to intensify across both alliances.
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Quick Summary
PepsiCo exceeded revenue forecasts but stock declined due to sluggish North American snack performance and conservative forward guidance
SK Hynix’s American Depositary Receipt offering received overwhelming demand, fueled by aggressive AI investor interest
AstraZeneca stock tumbled following the failure of its experimental cardiovascular drug in late-stage clinical testing
U.S. equity markets advanced amid geopolitical uncertainty, with AI-focused and mega-cap technology stocks leading gains
Crude oil prices retreated, providing relief on inflation pressures and boosting airline and consumer-facing sectors
PepsiCo Surpasses Revenue Targets Yet Stock Slides
PepsiCo delivered quarterly revenue figures that topped analyst expectations, supported by robust international performance and effective pricing strategies across its portfolio of global brands.
However, the stock declined in trading. Market participants focused their attention on disappointing performance in North American snack categories and management’s conservative forward-looking commentary.
This response highlights the elevated bar companies face during this earnings cycle. Forward guidance has increasingly become the critical factor influencing stock movements rather than historical performance.
PepsiCo’s quarterly report offers valuable insight into consumer spending patterns and inflationary pressures. Analysts will be monitoring whether the North American weakness reflects company-specific challenges or signals broader consumer market trends.
SK Hynix ADR Offering Sees Extraordinary Investor Interest
Memory chip manufacturer SK Hynix experienced overwhelming demand for its U.S. American Depositary Receipt offering, with subscriptions coming in at multiple times the available shares, demonstrating robust appetite for AI-related semiconductor investments.
The South Korean company manufactures high-bandwidth memory solutions essential for AI servers and cloud data infrastructure, positioning it strategically within the ongoing artificial intelligence infrastructure expansion.
The strong market reception indicates that investor enthusiasm for premium semiconductor companies remains solid, despite recent turbulence across the broader technology sector.
AstraZeneca Shares Decline Following Clinical Trial Disappointment
AstraZeneca experienced a significant stock decline after announcing its experimental cardiovascular therapy failed to achieve its primary efficacy measure in Phase 3 clinical trials.
The disappointing outcome pressured sentiment across the pharmaceutical industry. While clinical trial setbacks are a routine aspect of drug development, market participants responded quickly to the news.
AstraZeneca maintains a robust development pipeline spanning oncology, respiratory conditions, and rare disease treatments. Market attention will now turn to forthcoming regulatory decisions and the company’s remaining advanced-stage development programs.
Equity Markets Advance Despite Global Tensions
Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq finished trading sessions in positive territory as market participants concentrated on corporate earnings and artificial intelligence stocks rather than international political developments.
Ongoing situations in the Middle East were tracked by investors but appeared to exert minimal influence on overall market trajectory during the trading day.
The market’s stability demonstrates a strategic pivot toward second-quarter corporate outlooks, which are anticipated to be the primary driver of stock valuations in coming weeks.
Crude Oil Prices Retreat from Recent Highs
Crude oil prices declined following a period of increased volatility, delivering some welcome relief regarding inflationary concerns.
Decreasing oil prices typically provide advantages to airline carriers, retail businesses, and consumer-oriented companies through reduced fuel expenses and lower operational costs. They can also diminish pressure on central banking institutions working to control inflation.
OPEC+ supply determinations and continuing geopolitical situations will continue to serve as critical variables influencing energy market dynamics in the immediate future.
The post Market Movers Today: PepsiCo Earnings Miss, SK Hynix ADR Surge, AstraZeneca Trial Fails, and Oil Retreats appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:
The CLARITY Act faces a fresh political hurdle as White House officials and Senate Democrats dispute vacant SEC and CFTC seats.
The CFTC vacancies matter since the crypto bill could give the agency broad authority over spot digital commodity markets.
White House officials said they requested Democratic nominee names for SEC and CFTC seats but had not received a response.
Senate talks now include nominations, ethics language, DeFi rules, and the timeline for passing the wider crypto bill.
The CLARITY Act has moved into a new Senate pressure point as the White House and Democrats trade claims over vacant SEC and CFTC seats. White House officials told Senate leaders that the administration sought Democratic names for both agencies but had not received them.
Democrats have argued that missing commissioners weaken the agencies expected to shape digital asset rules. The dispute now lands ahead of a possible vote on the crypto bill. The CFTC issue carries extra weight since the agency could receive broad spot crypto market authority under the proposal.
CLARITY Act Enters Senate Talks With CFTC Vacancies
The staffing clash centers on the CFTC, a five-member agency now operating with only Chair Michael Selig in place. Lawmakers have pressed the White House to submit a full slate of nominees before the Senate moves further on the crypto bill.
The White House letter, sent to John Thune and Chuck Schumer, rejected Democratic claims that the administration has blocked minority-party nominees. Officials said Democrats had not supplied names despite earlier requests. They also cited other Democratic nominations to argue that the administration had not shut out opposition-party picks.
NEW: The White House is pushing back on Senate Democrats’ claims that the Trump administration is refusing to nominate Democratic commissioners at independent agencies.
In a letter to Senate leaders, the White House says it requested Democratic recommendations for vacancies at… pic.twitter.com/eI05wQFPuu
— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) July 9, 2026
The fight has become part of a broader negotiation over the CLARITY Act. Senate Democrats still want changes tied to ethics rules, DeFi oversight, and agency staffing. Those issues matter since the bill likely needs Democratic votes to clear the Senate filibuster threshold.
CFTC vacancies also give Democrats a practical argument. A full commission could make future crypto rules look more durable and bipartisan. A single-commissioner agency may move faster, but opponents could challenge the process once rules hit courts.
Officials also pointed to Trump v. Slaughter, a recent Supreme Court ruling tied to presidential authority over independent agencies. That reference adds constitutional weight to a dispute already shaped by Senate procedure.
CLARITY Act Rulemaking Timeline Raises Agency Risk
The CLARITY Act would divide digital asset oversight between the SEC and CFTC. The CFTC would oversee spot markets for digital commodities, while the SEC would handle assets and sales that fall under securities law. That split is central to the crypto bill.
The proposal would also put regulators on a deadline. The agencies would need to write rules covering exchange registration, custody, disclosures, and market boundaries. That workload could test the CFTC if vacancies persist.
We both want bad actors held accountable. The difference is I’m working on solutions, you’re shouting into the void hoping the status quo fixes itself.
Sec. 303 enables new crypto sanctions on Iran.
Sec. 305 lets exchanges stop illicit funds before they reach North Korea. https://t.co/fbNGAZBlQl pic.twitter.com/sWoUyQyGCM
— Senator Cynthia Lummis (@SenLummis) July 9, 2026
Selig has said the agency can move without a full commission. Supporters of faster rulemaking say the crypto market needs federal standards after years of enforcement-driven policy. For exchanges and token issuers, the main question is whether Congress can pass rules before another election cycle shifts priorities.
Opponents see a different risk. If the CLARITY Act hands major authority to an understaffed CFTC, the first rulebook could face political and legal attacks. That would reduce the certainty the bill aims to create.
The White House and Democrats are now arguing over who must move first. The administration says it needs Democratic names. Democrats say the president must fill the agencies that would enforce any new crypto law. The nomination fight now sits beside the Senate calendar, with the August recess approaching and the crypto bill still waiting for floor action.
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Key Takeaways
CoreWeave shares declined 3.4% to close at $83.53, touching an intraday bottom of $79.46, while volume trailed the daily average by 20%
Analysts hold a Moderate Buy rating with a consensus price target of $135, with bullish forecasts reaching as high as $250
Investor anxiety is mounting over Meta’s reported plans to enter the AI cloud computing space, potentially challenging CoreWeave’s market position
Company insiders have offloaded more than $3 billion in shares over the last three months, primarily through tax withholding arrangements
The company’s Q1 results fell short of expectations with EPS of -$1.40 versus the -$1.17 estimate, despite revenue jumping 111.6% annually to $2.08 billion
CoreWeave (CRWV) experienced a 3.4% pullback on Tuesday, settling at $83.53 following an intraday descent to $79.46. The previous trading session had concluded at $86.46.
Trading activity registered approximately 23 million shares, falling roughly 20% short of typical volumes — indicating the downturn wasn’t fueled by mass liquidation.
Year-to-date, the stock maintains a 26% gain, though it’s nursing a 41% decline over the trailing twelve months and trading considerably beneath its 50-day moving average of $106.86.
Tuesday’s weakness reflected mounting investor apprehension centered on two key issues: Meta’s reported AI computing infrastructure ambitions and persistent insider share dispositions.
A Bloomberg piece highlighted Meta’s exploration of commercializing AI computing services and infrastructure capacity to external clients — a strategic direction that would place it squarely against CoreWeave’s primary revenue streams.
Rosenblatt upheld its Buy stance with a $250 target, contending the Meta threat is exaggerated. Both Wolfe Research and Evercore ISI confirmed Outperform positions with matching $150 targets.
Executive Stock Dispositions Draw Attention
Insider transactions have become a focal point. Throughout the preceding 90 days, company insiders have divested more than $3 billion in CRWV shares.
Most recently, General Counsel Kristen J. McVeety disposed of 22 shares for $1,889 on July 6, conducted under a Rule 10b5-1 arrangement established in May 2025.
Prior to that, insider Brian Venturo unloaded 76,912 shares on July 1 at an average price of $86.99, generating approximately $6.69 million. This transaction trimmed his holdings by 21%.
Insider Brannin McBee divested 56,707 shares on June 30 at $95.69, totaling roughly $5.43 million — reducing his stake by 14.9%.
Both transactions occurred through predetermined Rule 10b5-1 arrangements designed to satisfy tax liabilities on equity compensation vesting. While this represents standard practice, the magnitude has nonetheless attracted market attention.
Recent Earnings Disappointment Lingers
CoreWeave’s most recent quarterly disclosure on May 7 added to sentiment headwinds. The firm recorded EPS of -$1.40, falling short of the -$1.17 consensus projection by $0.23.
Revenue reached $2.08 billion, representing 111.6% year-over-year expansion. While top-line momentum remains robust, profitability challenges persist — the net margin currently registers at -25.57%.
Wall Street’s consensus forecast anticipates full-year EPS of -$4.57.
Notwithstanding the earnings shortfall, multiple analysts contend the sell-off is excessive. BNP Paribas holds the Street’s most optimistic target at $192, with Cantor Fitzgerald at $167. Wells Fargo elevated its objective to $155 in May.
Among 35 analysts tracking the equity, 21 assign Buy ratings, 12 recommend Hold, and 2 suggest Sell.
The company’s debt-to-equity ratio registers at 3.68, accompanied by a current ratio of merely 0.31 — a financial structure that introduces meaningful risk alongside the growth narrative.
CoreWeave’s market capitalization hovers between approximately $37–45 billion, fluctuating with market conditions. The company unveiled ARIA, an AI-powered research assistant, earlier this week — though analysts view it as lacking immediate catalytic potential.
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TLDR
Q2 adjusted earnings per share reached $0.28, surpassing analyst expectations of $0.24
Quarterly revenue climbed to $1.56 billion, an 8% year-over-year increase, exceeding the $1.52 billion forecast
Company upgraded full-year EPS guidance to $1.46–$1.52 and raised revenue growth expectations to 7%–7.5%
Dividend increased 14% to $0.16 per share, marking the fourth consecutive year of growth
Despite positive results, LEVI shares declined over 5% during after-hours trading
Levi Strauss delivered a solid Q2 performance on Wednesday, surpassing Wall Street projections for both earnings and revenue while simultaneously boosting its full-year forecast and increasing its dividend payment. Yet investors responded by sending shares down more than 5% after the closing bell.
For the fiscal quarter that concluded on May 31, the iconic denim manufacturer reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.28, comfortably above the Street’s consensus estimate of $0.24. Quarterly revenue reached $1.56 billion, representing an 8% year-over-year gain and beating analyst projections of $1.52 billion. The company’s profit from continuing operations totaled $95 million, showing improvement from the $80 million recorded in the same period last year.
Levi Strauss $LEVI Q2 FY2026 Earnings
Strong quarter with sales beat and raised fullyear guidance
KEY METRICS (Q2 FY2026)
Net Revenues: $1.562B (+8% reported, +6% organic YoY)
Gross Margin: 62.7% (+10 bps YoY)
GAAP Diluted EPS: $0.24 (+20% YoY)
…
— Emmanuel – Big Tech & AI Investor (@EmmanuelInvest) July 8, 2026
The after-hours selloff represents a textbook example of “buy the rumor, sell the news” market behavior. Some market participants had anticipated a more substantial guidance increase, and the updated EPS range of $1.46–$1.52 came in slightly below the analyst consensus midpoint of $1.51.
During regular trading hours on July 9, LEVI shares had climbed approximately 1%. Over the trailing twelve-month period, the stock has appreciated 24%.
Regional and Channel Breakdown
Growth materialized across all geographic segments. The Americas division generated $815 million in revenue, representing a 9% increase, with U.S. operations contributing 5% growth. European operations produced $420 million, up 4%, though organic sales declined 1% due to a distribution center transition from the prior year. Asian markets delivered $284 million, marking a 10% gain. The Beyond Yoga brand contributed $43 million, jumping 16%.
The company’s direct-to-consumer segment, which now accounts for 51% of total net revenue, expanded 11%. Digital commerce specifically surged 19%. The wholesale channel recorded 5% growth.
CEO Michelle Gass explained during a CNBC interview that approximately two-thirds of the revenue expansion came from volume increases rather than pricing adjustments. She characterized the company’s primary customer base as remaining resilient.
CFO Harmit Singh highlighted improved gross margins and disciplined cost management as the primary factors behind enhanced profitability.
Guidance and Dividend
For the complete fiscal year ending November 29, Levi elevated its revenue growth projection to 7%–7.5%, up from the previous 5.5%–6.5% range. The adjusted EPS outlook was increased to $1.46–$1.52, compared to the earlier guidance of $1.42–$1.48.
Management’s forecast incorporates the assumption that U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods remain at 30% and tariffs affecting other countries stay at 20%.
The quarterly dividend payment was increased to $0.16 per share, representing a 14% boost from the prior $0.14 distribution. This gives LEVI an approximate dividend yield of 2.50%. The payment date is scheduled for August 5 for shareholders on record as of July 22.
This represents the fourth consecutive year the company has increased its dividend following a pause during the COVID-19 pandemic period.
Wall Street analyst sentiment remains bullish, with eleven analysts rating LEVI as a Strong Buy, nine issuing Buy ratings, and two maintaining Hold recommendations. The consensus price target of $28.09 suggests approximately 14% potential upside from present trading levels.
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Key Highlights
MU shares advanced 7.90% following announcement of a $3B domestic semiconductor initiative.
Stock price reached $1,023.79 as investors responded positively to supply chain strategy.
Company commits $500M in strategic financing to back GlobalWafers’ Texas facility.
A decade-long supply agreement for cutting-edge silicon wafers is in the works.
Strategic move strengthens domestic chip manufacturing and addresses AI memory requirements.
Shares of Micron Technology (MU) climbed 7.90% to reach $1,023.79 following the company’s announcement of a substantial domestic supply-chain initiative. The semiconductor manufacturer revealed plans to invest up to $3 billion in strengthening U.S. chip material sources and manufacturing capabilities. Market participants welcomed the strategic commitment, which aligns with growing demand from artificial intelligence applications and high-performance computing sectors.
Micron Technology, Inc., MU
Company Unveils Massive Domestic Semiconductor Initiative
Micron announced plans to deploy as much as $3 billion toward bolstering the American semiconductor material supply network. According to company statements, this initiative aims to secure essential manufacturing inputs and enhance supply reliability. Management believes the investment will provide greater operational flexibility as production requirements evolve.
Company executives linked the initiative to the expanding requirements for advanced memory and storage solutions. The proliferation of AI workloads, cloud infrastructure, and data-intensive applications continues pushing capacity demands higher. Securing dependable access to crucial semiconductor manufacturing materials represents a strategic priority for the chipmaker.
This development represents another step in the broader national push to expand chip production domestically. Federal authorities have encouraged semiconductor firms to establish additional manufacturing capabilities within U.S. borders. Consequently, industry players are increasingly establishing long-term agreements focused on domestic production capacity.
Strategic Partnership Secures Raw Material Supply
The memory chip manufacturer will deliver $500 million in strategic financing to GlobalWafers. These funds will support the development of GlobalWafers America’s 300mm silicon wafer manufacturing plant located in Sherman, Texas. The partnership also includes plans for a comprehensive 10-year supply arrangement between both organizations.
This arrangement secures Micron substantial access to premium raw silicon wafer production capacity. Such wafers serve as fundamental components for memory chip fabrication and various semiconductor products. Consequently, this partnership strengthens the company’s extended production strategy and material availability.
GlobalWafers’ Sherman operation represents a strategic asset within America’s semiconductor infrastructure. The facility will enable domestic production of sophisticated 300mm wafers on U.S. soil. Furthermore, the project’s inclusion in the CHIPS for America Program provides additional governmental backing and support.
Federal and State Officials Endorse Sherman Facility
The proposed investment received endorsements from government representatives at multiple levels. Federal commerce authorities, trade officials, and Texas state leaders emphasized the project’s potential for employment generation and supply-chain security. They further connected the expansion to maintaining American technological competitiveness and addressing national security considerations.
The Sherman manufacturing site operates within North Texas’ expanding semiconductor manufacturing zone. Regional authorities have promoted this area as the emerging “Silicon Prairie” of the United States. This latest development reinforces the region’s significance in domestic chip production efforts.
Looking ahead, Micron and GlobalWafers intend to pursue joint research on emerging wafer technologies. Both organizations anticipate this collaboration will address future-generation semiconductor manufacturing requirements. However, finalizing the proposed transaction remains contingent upon completing definitive agreements, securing necessary approvals, and satisfying standard closing conditions.

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Key Highlights
Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma toured IBM’s Thomas J. Watson Research Center, sharing his quantum computing experience with his 1.3 million X platform followers.
The tech giant clarified the laboratory visit wasn’t sponsored — Kuzma initiated contact after publicly showing interest in quantum technology on social platforms.
Wall Street consensus rates IBM as “Moderate Buy” with a $306.47 average price target; Bank of America recently upgraded its forecast to $330.
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group decreased its IBM holdings by 3.8% during Q1, divesting 91,570 shares, while institutional investors maintain 58.96% ownership.
The company announces Q2 2026 financial results on July 22; shares began Thursday trading at $302.18, declining 1.3% intraday.
International Business Machines enters earnings reporting season amid a distinctive convergence of events — including a high-profile facility tour, dividend increases, and active analyst coverage.
Kyle Kuzma, who plays forward for the Milwaukee Bucks, recently explored IBM’s Thomas J. Watson Research Center and documented the experience for his 1.3 million X platform audience. He expanded on the visit through a Monday LinkedIn update, stating: “Quantum could end up being the foundation that expands what AI is even capable of.”
IBM informed Barron’s that Kuzma’s visit materialized after the athlete publicly demonstrated curiosity about quantum computing technology via social channels. Company representatives verified no financial arrangement supported the visit.
Shares commenced Thursday’s session at $302.18, registering approximately 1.3% decline during trading. This valuation positions the stock considerably below its 52-week peak of $332.46, while maintaining distance above the $212.34 annual low.
The technology giant schedules its Q2 2026 earnings announcement for July 22. During the previous quarter, IBM delivered earnings per share of $1.91, surpassing analyst expectations of $1.81 by $0.10. Total revenue reached $15.92 billion, exceeding the projected $15.60 billion and representing 9.5% year-over-year growth.
Wall Street’s Perspective
Current analyst coverage includes sixteen Buy recommendations and nine Hold ratings. The overall consensus classification stands at “Moderate Buy” with a $306.47 average price objective.
Bank of America elevated its price forecast to $330 in recent activity. Barclays commenced coverage during June with an “overweight” designation and $350 target. JPMorgan upgraded from neutral to overweight in late June, increasing its projection from $270 to $291.
Bearish sentiment exists among some analysts. KeyCorp downgraded to “sector weight” coinciding with JPMorgan’s upgrade. HSBC transitioned from “reduce” to “hold” during April, adjusting its target upward from $218 to $231.
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group reduced its IBM allocation by 3.8% throughout Q1, liquidating 91,570 units to conclude the quarter holding 2,348,360 units valued at approximately $569 million. Institutional investors collectively control 58.96% of outstanding shares.
Quantum Computing Enters Mainstream Consciousness
Kuzma’s facility tour represents another indicator that quantum computing technology is penetrating broader public awareness. A $2 billion federal government investment package materialized in May, accompanied by two executive directives addressing quantum advancement. IBM separately unveiled plans for an independent quantum chip manufacturing facility supported by $1 billion Commerce Department funding — an announcement that propelled the stock to its strongest weekly performance in over twenty years.
Kuzma maintains an established pattern of technology company visits. He toured Meta’s corporate headquarters in late June and recently shared photographs featuring equipment from Lunar Outpost, an emerging company holding a $220 million NASA agreement.
Industry analysts and quantum computing executives consistently emphasize that genuine sector validation originates from revenue-generating customers — not celebrity endorsements. Current end users predominantly comprise academic institutions and government agencies, rendering consumer-oriented publicity primarily a brand awareness strategy.
IBM additionally increased its quarterly dividend distribution to $1.69 per share, distributed June 10, up from the previous $1.68. The annualized dividend yield currently stands at 2.2%.
The corporation also introduced compact z17 and LinuxONE 5 computing systems this week, alongside unveiling Project Lightwell, an open-source security framework addressing software supply-chain vulnerabilities.
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Key Takeaways
June’s existing home sales dropped 2.4% to an annual pace of 4.09 million units, creating challenges for Opendoor’s business model
Mortgage rates for 30-year loans increased to 6.49%, while median home prices reached an all-time high of $440,600
The company’s inventory-based approach leaves it vulnerable to market slowdowns and elevated carrying costs
Analyst consensus points to a 12-month target of $4.38, with projections spanning from $1.40 to $8.00 across 7 analysts
Projections suggest mortgage rates will remain north of 6% until 2028, delaying any meaningful sector rebound
Opendoor Technologies (OPEN) stands out as one of the market’s most interest rate-dependent stocks. The company’s business revolves around purchasing residential properties, maintaining inventory, and selling them for profit — an approach heavily reliant on housing market momentum and precise valuation strategies.
Currently, the macroeconomic environment presents significant obstacles.
According to Reuters, June saw an unanticipated 2.4% decline in existing home sales, settling at a seasonally adjusted rate of 4.09 million annually. This tepid performance directly impacts Opendoor in ways that traditional listing platforms or construction companies would largely avoid.
The AP reports that 30-year mortgage rates have risen to 6.49%. Meanwhile, the median price for existing homes reached an unprecedented $440,600. This dual pressure — elevated borrowing costs paired with peak pricing — creates the perfect storm for buyer hesitation.
Since Opendoor maintains physical inventory on its books, market stagnation immediately affects profitability and liquidity. Unlike listing services that can weather downturns passively, Opendoor bears ongoing ownership expenses.
The Optimistic Perspective Remains Alive
Despite current challenges, the bullish argument maintains substance. A June 17 Reuters report highlighted that pending home sales climbed to their strongest level in six months during May. These early signals keep believers engaged.
Should borrowing costs decline even marginally and transaction activity rebound, Opendoor stands positioned for rapid improvement. The inherent operational leverage within its framework is genuine — favorable market shifts can translate into swift financial gains. This potential keeps OPEN relevant among investors despite prevailing sector weakness.
The stock’s price action responds more dramatically to rate forecasts and housing sentiment than quarterly earnings reports. This characteristic cuts both ways.
Wall Street’s Current Assessment
Analyst enthusiasm remains measured. According to MarketBeat tracking, 7 analysts have established a consensus 12-month target of $4.38, with individual forecasts ranging between $1.40 and $8.00.
This average target trails the most recent trading price, implying analysts believe recent gains have outpaced fundamental support.
This represents measured skepticism rather than outright pessimism. The distinction matters.
Fitch’s mid-year housing analysis identified persistent inflation, deteriorating affordability, and weakening employment trends as continuous demand suppressors. A Reuters survey of economists revealed expectations for rates to hold above 6% through 2028, with only gradual decreases anticipated.
This extended timeline complicates efforts to pinpoint when market conditions might meaningfully improve.
Opendoor’s consensus analyst target currently registers at $4.38, with coverage from 7 Wall Street firms tracked in the latest MarketBeat compilation.
The post Opendoor (OPEN) Stock: Why Investors Are Waiting on the Sidelines Despite Long-Term Potential appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Technology stocks powered indices higher with the Nasdaq advancing 1.2%, S&P 500 up 0.8%, and Dow rising 0.4% Thursday
Investor appetite for SK Hynix’s Friday Nasdaq listing reached seven times the number of shares being offered
Military conflict between the U.S. and Iran intensified with American forces hitting 90 Iranian locations, prompting Iranian retaliation against allied targets
Crude oil retreated Thursday, reversing part of the previous session’s advance despite Middle East hostilities
PepsiCo earnings revealed weakening consumer demand as Americans tighten budgets, though overall sales exceeded analyst forecasts
American equity markets posted solid advances Thursday, with technology shares leading the charge as market participants shrugged off geopolitical uncertainty and focused attention on SK Hynix’s upcoming artificial intelligence-focused public offering.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.2%, while the benchmark S&P 500 climbed 0.8%. The blue-chip Dow Jones Industrial Average registered a more modest gain of approximately 0.4%.
Nasdaq 100 Sep 26 (NQ=F)
The rally displayed widespread participation across market segments. The Equal Weight S&P 500 index surpassed its traditional market-cap-weighted counterpart, indicating the advance wasn’t confined to mega-cap technology names.
Three sectors bucked the upward trend: energy, consumer staples, and healthcare all finished lower. This sectoral breakdown is typical of risk-embracing sessions, with investors rotating away from traditionally defensive areas.
Memory Chipmaker’s Public Offering Generates Intense Interest
Thursday’s bullish sentiment was largely fueled by enthusiasm surrounding SK Hynix, the South Korean semiconductor manufacturer specializing in memory chips. The company planned to finalize pricing Thursday evening before commencing trading on the Nasdaq Friday morning.
Investor appetite has proven remarkably robust, with subscription requests reaching seven times the available allocation—a clear indication of confidence in artificial intelligence infrastructure spending trajectories.
The offering arrives following a turbulent period for semiconductor equities. Recent weakness in chip stocks had prompted questions about the sustainability of the AI-fueled market advance.
Geopolitical Tensions Fail to Derail Rally
Geopolitical developments commanded headlines Thursday. American military forces conducted operations against 90 Iranian sites, prompting Tehran to launch countermeasures against facilities in nations aligned with Washington throughout the Middle East region.
Despite the military escalation, equity investors displayed remarkable resilience. Markets maintained their positive trajectory throughout trading hours.
Oil prices declined Thursday, erasing portions of the prior day’s gains. The market response suggested traders anticipate continued tensions without necessarily expecting worst-case scenarios to materialize.
U.S. Treasury yields remained relatively unchanged. Currency markets showed similar stability, with the dollar exhibiting minimal movement.
Economic Data and Corporate Earnings
Weekly unemployment insurance filings showed marginal variation from the previous period. The relatively stable employment picture continues informing investor expectations regarding Federal Reserve monetary policy trajectory.
PepsiCo delivered quarterly results Thursday morning. While topline revenue exceeded Wall Street estimates, company management highlighted increasing consumer caution as economic uncertainty weighs on household spending patterns.
Among constituents of the Roundhill Magnificent Seven ETF, Meta Platforms and Tesla delivered positive returns, partially counterbalancing declines from Nvidia and Alphabet.
The specialized ETF managed to close marginally higher after recovering from steeper intraday losses earlier in the session.
By mid-afternoon, the Nasdaq traded around 26,194, while the S&P 500 hovered near 7,546 and the Dow sat approximately at 52,550.
The post SK Hynix IPO Sees Oversubscription by 7x as Tech Stocks Rally Amid Geopolitical Tensions appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Points
Labour lawmakers advocate for complete prohibition of cryptocurrency political contributions.
Byrne spearheads initiative to eliminate digital asset loopholes in campaign finance.
Dodds proposes reducing maximum electoral expenditure thresholds.
Legislators address startup party financing and international interference concerns.
Reform UK financing controversy intensifies parliamentary scrutiny ahead of debate.
Members of the Labour Party are preparing to advocate for a complete prohibition on cryptocurrency contributions to political entities as controversy surrounding Reform UK’s financing intensifies. This initiative addresses digital asset donations alongside broader electoral finance vulnerabilities, increasing ministerial pressure before upcoming legislative proceedings.
Parliamentary Push for Enhanced Electoral Finance Regulations
Legislators associated with the cross-party anti-corruption coalition are mobilizing backing for four distinct amendments scheduled for next week’s proceedings. Their objective is to compel government officials to reinforce the Representation of the People Bill. These proposals concentrate on Crypto Donation regulations, electoral expenditure, party financing mechanisms, and international influence verification protocols.
Liam Byrne is championing the initiative for an outright prohibition on cryptocurrency contributions. While the administration currently supports a temporary suspension, numerous Labour representatives advocate for comprehensive prohibition. Their position emphasizes that digital currencies present auditability challenges and compromise contributor verification processes.
Byrne’s proposed amendment attracted increased backing following inquiries regarding Reform UK’s financial arrangements. Media accounts connected substantial contributions and benefits to cryptocurrency-affiliated individuals Christopher Harborne and George Cottrell. Although Farage has rejected allegations of misconduct, the dispute has amplified political scrutiny.
Expenditure Caps and Party Reserves Under Legislative Scrutiny
Anneliese Dodds has introduced proposals to reduce permitted campaign expenditure thresholds. Her amendment seeks to decrease the nationwide ceiling from £34 million to £24.4 million. She contends that electoral financing increasingly resembles competitive escalation.
Yuan Yang has submitted an independent amendment addressing newly established political organizations. Her strategy would restrict the capital reserves a party may possess at inception. This proposal emerges from examination of parties launching with significant resources preceding complete contributor transparency.
Mark Sewards advocates for enhanced verification procedures concerning contributions potentially connected to international interference. His amendment would mandate risk evaluation before parties accept particular funds. Collectively, these initiatives broaden the discussion beyond the Crypto Donation matter.
Reform UK Financing Controversy Accelerates Legislative Action
The dispute encompassing Reform UK has amplified Labour’s pressure on ministerial officials. Media accounts indicated financial institutions flagged multiple transactions associated with contributors for National Crime Agency examination. Certain reports questioned the authentic origin of resources.
Farage asserted his innocence and characterized the situation as politically motivated pressure. He subsequently initiated a by-election in Clacton, declaring constituents should evaluate his actions. Primary opposition parties have reportedly declined to field candidates in that electoral contest.
Government officials have previously suggested modifications to the elections legislation. One provision would restrict contributions from overseas expatriates to £100,000 annually. Labour dissidents maintain the package remains insufficient.
The cryptocurrency contribution proposal now occupies the focal point of the financing discussion. Advocates assert permanent regulations would eliminate a rapidly expanding vulnerability. Critics may contend that current contributor verification systems adequately address digital assets.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government announced continued evaluation of methods to strengthen the legislation. The Commons will analyze the package upon the bill’s return on 14 July. The cryptocurrency contribution debate now determines the extent of Labour’s political finance transformation ambitions.

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Key Highlights
TeraWulf plans to secure roughly $3.5 billion through leveraged loans and high-yield bonds to fund a Kentucky data center campus
Morgan Stanley will spearhead the financing package, with launch anticipated within the year
A 20-year lease agreement with Anthropic for the Kentucky site is expected to yield approximately $19 billion in total revenue
Morgan Stanley maintained its Overweight stance while increasing the price target from $66.50 to $72
Shares of WULF climbed 2.43% to reach $23.39 during Thursday’s trading session
TeraWulf (WULF) is accelerating its expansion plans. The bitcoin mining company-turned-AI infrastructure provider is gearing up to secure roughly $3.5 billion through debt markets to construct an expansive data center complex in Kentucky — with artificial intelligence firm Anthropic already committed as its anchor tenant.
Shares of WULF advanced 2.43% to $23.39 during Thursday’s session.
The capital raise will combine leveraged loans with high-yield bond offerings. Morgan Stanley has been tapped to orchestrate the financing effort, as confirmed by CFO Patrick Fleury. Market participants anticipate the transaction will debut sometime this year.
This represents TeraWulf’s maiden voyage into the leveraged loan space. The firm has already demonstrated strong capital markets access, having issued $1.3 billion in high-yield debt this past December and another $3.2 billion in October, marking a historic milestone as the inaugural bitcoin mining operation to access junk bond markets.
Just days ago, TeraWulf finalized a two-decade lease arrangement with Anthropic for the Kentucky property, branded as Justified Data. The site is currently under development in Hawesville, located roughly 60 miles southwest of Louisville.
According to Fleury, the agreement should produce approximately $19 billion in committed revenue over its duration and features two additional five-year renewal provisions. The facility will provide 401 megawatts of artificial intelligence computing power, with initial operations slated to commence in the latter part of 2027.
Reporting from Bloomberg last month indicated that Anthropic has additionally committed to leasing computing hardware at two separate TeraWulf data center locations.
Fleury pointed out that numerous financial institutions involved in TeraWulf’s $250 million revolving credit arrangement earlier this year may also take part in the Justified Data financing round.
Morgan Stanley Increases Price Projection
On Thursday, Morgan Stanley reaffirmed its Overweight recommendation on WULF while elevating its price objective from $66.50 to $72, pointing to the company’s expanding artificial intelligence infrastructure opportunities.
The analyst’s revised outlook provided additional momentum to shares that had already been trending upward following the Anthropic lease disclosure.
Divesting Bitcoin Mining Assets
TeraWulf is simultaneously offloading its 50.1% ownership position in the Abernathy Joint Venture — converting approximately $450 million in assets at favorable terms. The transaction highlights the company’s strategic realignment from cryptocurrency mining operations toward AI-focused data center infrastructure.
This transformation hasn’t been entirely smooth. Earlier in the week, WULF encountered resistance from Samsung’s lackluster preliminary second-quarter performance, news that Chinese AI startup DeepSeek was developing proprietary AI inference processors, and Meta Platforms’ announcement regarding competing cloud infrastructure initiatives. Declining Bitcoin valuations further dampened investor enthusiasm.
Short interest in TeraWulf experienced a marginal decline, dropping from 108.78 million shares to 108.65 million during the latest reporting cycle. This represents 25.82% of the publicly traded float. Based on recent average daily volume of 26.35 million shares, short sellers would require approximately 4.12 days to fully exit their positions.
Morgan Stanley has served as lead underwriter for all of TeraWulf’s prior bond issuances and has maintained ongoing dialogue with company leadership regarding potential entry into the loan market for an extended period.
The post TeraWulf (WULF) Stock Climbs as $3.5B Financing Plan Backs Anthropic AI Data Center appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
DVLT stock advanced 4.67% following the Mandela Dollar partnership announcement.
Company secures exclusive technology provider status for MUSD stablecoin infrastructure.
Mandela Digital focuses on remittance solutions and financial services for emerging markets.
Partnership enhances DVLT’s position in RWA tokenization and regulatory compliance sectors.
Datavault AI’s platforms will power MUSD issuance, transparency, and operational systems.
Shares of Datavault AI Inc. (DVLT) climbed 4.67% to reach $0.3727 following the company’s announcement of its involvement in a joint venture centered on the Mandela Dollar stablecoin. This strategic partnership positions Datavault AI as the primary technology provider for Mandela Digital’s infrastructure development. The arrangement also reinforces the firm’s commitment to real-world asset tokenization and compliant digital payment systems.
Strategic Technology Partnership Established
Datavault AI entered into a tripartite joint venture alongside Unity Reserve and Mandela Dlamini & Manaway. This collaboration establishes Mandela Digital, the organization responsible for creating the Mandela Dollar (MUSD). The digital currency is designed to facilitate cross-border transfers, payment processing, and expanded financial services in traditionally underserved regions.
Datavault AI has been designated as the founding and sole technology provider for Mandela Digital. The firm will implement its technological solutions for token creation, redemption processes, regulatory adherence, and blockchain transparency mechanisms. This arrangement positions Datavault AI for sustained infrastructure revenue should MUSD achieve widespread market acceptance.
Mandela Digital represents an evolution of a concept originally introduced in February 2026. The initiative combines Datavault AI’s secure digital asset technology with the humanitarian objectives associated with the Mandela family organization. Unity Reserve facilitated the partnership structure and coordinated the three-party contractual agreement.
MUSD Stablecoin Designed for Financial Inclusion
The Mandela Dollar operates as a USD-pegged stablecoin maintaining a 1:1 value ratio. The project specifically addresses cross-border money transfers, digital commerce, and enhanced financial accessibility. Priority markets encompass developing regions and populations with restricted access to conventional banking infrastructure.
The initiative incorporates a philanthropic revenue framework. A designated percentage of MUSD transaction income will fund educational initiatives, vocational training programs, and anti-poverty measures. These charitable activities will be administered through organizations aligned with Nelson Mandela’s humanitarian principles.
Mandela Digital will now advance toward development milestones, regulatory approvals, liquidity establishment, exchange platform integration, and commercial deployment. Datavault AI’s technology infrastructure will underpin these operations from inception. The company will additionally provide connectivity to SanQtum AI’s zero-trust edge computing network.
Expanding Market Position in RWA Tokenization
Datavault AI characterized this partnership as a practical application of its RWA and compliance capabilities. Every stablecoin operation generates platform activity through verification procedures, transaction logging, and reserve validation. Consequently, this business relationship offers scalability beyond initial system implementation.
The company is positioning itself within a marketplace experiencing increased stablecoin adoption alongside stricter regulatory oversight. The U.S. GENIUS Act established federal guidelines for payment-focused stablecoins in 2025. The legislation mandates full reserve backing and transparent reserve reporting.
Datavault AI can leverage Mandela Digital as a demonstration project for attracting additional clients. This venture provides the company with an operational showcase spanning stablecoin technology, RWA frameworks, and compliance systems. The positive DVLT stock performance indicated heightened investor confidence in this expanded operational scope.

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Key Highlights
Meta has reportedly committed to a long-term NAND flash memory supply agreement with SanDisk
Shares of SanDisk soared more than 10% Thursday following the Reuters report
An internal Meta document reveals plans for 7 gigawatts of compute deployment in 2026, scaling to 14 gigawatts in 2027
Official confirmation and deal terms remain undisclosed by both companies
SanDisk previously reported approximately $42 billion in committed multi-year supply contract revenue
Shares of SanDisk (SNDK) rocketed higher by more than 10% Thursday after Reuters published a report indicating that Meta Platforms has entered into a long-term agreement designating SanDisk as a primary flash storage provider for its ambitious artificial intelligence infrastructure buildout.
According to the Reuters report, which referenced an internal Meta communication, SNDK shares climbed from approximately $1,727 to reach an intraday peak of $1,907.79 during Thursday trading. As of this writing, the stock was trading up roughly 10.27% at $1,904.52.
SanDisk isn’t the sole beneficiary of Meta’s procurement strategy. The internal document also identifies Samsung Electronics for DRAM supply and Sumitomo Electric for fiber-optic infrastructure. However, SanDisk stands out as the only U.S.-listed equity among the trio, positioning it as the most accessible opportunity for domestic investors.
The positive sentiment spilled over into adjacent technology stocks. Broadcom (AVGO) — which is collaborating with Meta on its proprietary “Iris” artificial intelligence processor — gained 3.74%. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM), tasked with manufacturing the chip, advanced 1.32%. Meta itself (META) posted modest gains between 1.51% and 1.59%.
Neither Meta nor SanDisk has provided official statements regarding the arrangement. SanDisk declined commentary when contacted by Reuters, while Meta did not provide a response.
Meta’s Aggressive Infrastructure Expansion
The leaked internal communication reveals an aggressive timeline. Meta is targeting the deployment of seven gigawatts of computational infrastructure in 2026, with plans to double that capacity to 14 gigawatts by 2027.
At the heart of this expansion sits “Iris,” Meta’s fourth-generation AI chip under its MTIA initiative — a strategic program designed to reduce dependence on hardware from Nvidia and AMD. According to reports, Iris has successfully navigated bug testing without significant setbacks and remains on schedule for production launch in September 2026.
Meta’s AI infrastructure investment for this year alone could reach $145 billion. Notably, this spending level surpasses the $136.6 billion in operating cash flow the company is projected to generate in 2026, based on S&P Global Market Intelligence estimates.
SanDisk’s Remarkable Market Performance
SanDisk commenced trading as an independent entity following its Western Digital spinoff in February 2025, debuting around $38.50 per share. Since then, shares have skyrocketed more than 800% year-to-date, establishing it as the S&P 500’s best-performing stock through the first half of 2026.
The company’s latest financial results showcased this explosive growth trajectory. Third-quarter revenue nearly doubled year-over-year to $5.95 billion. Non-GAAP gross margins reached an impressive 78.4%, fueled by constrained supply conditions in the NAND flash market.
Prior to Thursday’s Meta news, SanDisk had already announced multi-year supply commitments representing approximately $42 billion in guaranteed minimum revenue.
The broader memory semiconductor sector participated in Thursday’s rally. Micron (MU) climbed nearly 8%, Western Digital (WDC) advanced approximately 6.9%, and Seagate (STX) gained close to 6%.
Thursday’s surge continues an extraordinary run for the NAND flash memory manufacturer, which now commands a market capitalization of $256 billion.
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Key Highlights
PENG shares surged 13.5% to reach $89.03 following a Q3 earnings per share of $0.84, exceeding the analyst consensus of $0.63 by $0.21
Quarterly revenue reached $478.71 million, surpassing the expected $405.53 million
The company increased its full-year adjusted EPS forecast to a range of $2.55–$2.65 and revenue projections to $1.64B–$1.69B
Wall Street analysts responded with target increases, with Citizens JMP setting the highest at $85 while Barclays raised theirs from $27 to $40
Shares reached a fresh 52-week peak of $87.78, now trading 189% higher than the 200-day moving average
On Thursday, Penguin Solutions (PENG) delivered fiscal third-quarter financial results dated July 7th that significantly exceeded Wall Street’s projections, propelling shares to a new annual high.
Shares began trading at $85.74 and advanced to $89.03 during mid-session activity, representing a 13.46% gain. This positions the stock approximately 189% higher than its 200-day moving average of $29.83.
The company posted adjusted earnings per share of $0.84, surpassing analyst expectations of $0.63 by $0.21. Total revenue reached $478.71 million, exceeding the projected $405.53 million by over 17%.
Updated Forecast Reinforces AI Growth Story
Executives increased the company’s full-year financial projections, elevating adjusted EPS guidance from the previous $2.30 to a new range of $2.55–$2.65. Revenue expectations were also adjusted upward to $1.64B–$1.69B from the earlier $1.60B projection.
During the quarterly conference call, company leaders highlighted the transition of AI workloads from preliminary testing phases into full-scale production for inference and agentic AI applications. They characterized memory demand patterns as structural trends rather than temporary cyclical fluctuations.
Management pointed to notable customer successes. Deepgram expanded its infrastructure while acquiring ClusterWareAI. A major financial institution purchased additional MemoryAI KV Cache servers to support on-premises code-generation inference capabilities.
The company also spotlighted Spectra, a sovereign infrastructure deployment developed in partnership with Sandia National Laboratories and NextSilicon, as representative of the premium contracts fueling current business momentum.
Wall Street Responds with Broad Target Increases
The strong quarterly performance prompted widespread analyst target adjustments. Citizens JMP elevated its price target to $85, while both Rosenblatt and Stifel moved to $75, all maintaining Buy or Market Outperform recommendations.
Barclays increased its target from $27 to $40 while maintaining an Equal Weight stance. This revised target still suggests considerable downside from present trading levels, representing the most conservative position among covering analysts.
Zacks Research upgraded PENG to Strong Buy on June 30th in anticipation of the earnings release. MarketBeat data currently reflects a Moderate Buy consensus rating with an average analyst price target of $54.88.
Executives did acknowledge potential challenges for the fourth quarter. They anticipate reduced memory-pricing advantages compared to Q3, which may pressure gross margin performance. Supply chain issues including extended component lead times and elevated memory costs were also mentioned as concerns.
Insider transaction activity has been notable recently. SVP Joseph Gates Clark divested 10,351 shares at $58.87 in early June. Director Sandeep Nayyar sold 12,893 shares at $45.09 during May. Over the past 90 days, company insiders have collectively sold 70,574 shares valued at approximately $3.2 million.
Institutional investors have shown increased interest. California State Teachers Retirement System expanded its holdings by 52.8% during Q1. Pacer Advisors grew its position by 34%.
The stock’s 50-day simple moving average stands at $56.59, while the 200-day SMA is positioned at $33.09. PENG currently trades roughly 54% above its 50-day average and 29% above the 20-day SMA of $66.77.
Shares touched a one-year high of $87.78, contrasting sharply with the one-year low of $16.04, illustrating the rapid revaluation occurring in AI infrastructure investments.
At publication time, PENG was trading up 13.46% at $89.03, establishing a new 52-week high.
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Key Takeaways
Goldman Sachs secured contracts to oversee $70 billion in retirement funds for Verizon and Lockheed Martin
Verizon contributed $40 billion in 401(k) assets while pension funds from both firms account for $30 billion
Corporations are shifting toward outsourcing retirement fund management to specialized financial institutions
Goldman’s outsourced chief investment officer division now controls approximately $480 billion
These mandates align with Goldman’s strategy to develop consistent revenue sources beyond traditional trading operations
Goldman Sachs revealed on Thursday that it has clinched agreements to oversee a substantial $70 billion in retirement funds belonging to telecommunications giant Verizon Communications and defense contractor Lockheed Martin.
BREAKING: Goldman Sachs won deals with Verizon Communications and Lockheed Martin to manage a combined $70 billion in retirement assets. pic.twitter.com/TQvBBvxFfV
— Short Squeez (@shortsqueeznews) July 9, 2026
The announcement represents one of the most significant recent victories in the corporate asset outsourcing sector.
Verizon is contributing $40 billion from its defined-contribution retirement programs, primarily composed of 401(k) plan assets. An additional $30 billion derives from pension holdings shared between Verizon and Lockheed Martin, although Goldman has not disclosed the precise allocation between these two corporate giants.
The Rise of Third-Party Asset Management
Major corporations are progressively delegating retirement fund oversight to external financial specialists. With investment portfolios expanding in both scale and sophistication — encompassing public equities, bonds, and alternative investments — businesses are seeking expert partners to navigate these responsibilities.
Goldman faces considerable competition in this sector. Industry heavyweights including BlackRock, Russell Investments, and Mercer are aggressively pursuing comparable contracts in what has evolved into a highly competitive and rapidly expanding marketplace.
Marc Nachmann, who leads Goldman’s global asset and wealth management operations, commented: “Large plan sponsors are consolidating responsibilities with one partner with the investment expertise and depth of platform to manage their bespoke needs.”
Building Predictable Income Streams
These contracts support Goldman Sachs’ overarching business transformation. The financial institution has prioritized developing revenue channels that deliver stability and predictability, reducing dependence on trading activities and dealmaking, which typically experience significant quarterly fluctuations.
Retirement fund management contracts hold particular appeal due to their long-term nature. After winning these mandates, financial firms typically collect steady management fees spanning multiple years or even decades.
Goldman’s outsourced chief investment officer division controlled approximately $480 billion in assets at the end of the first quarter this year. This specialized unit operates within the company’s expansive asset and wealth management segment, which commands roughly $3.7 trillion in aggregate investments.
The bank’s investment banking division generated $2.84 billion in fees during the latest quarter, representing a nearly 50% increase compared to the prior-year period. Goldman has simultaneously benefited from fees associated with bond issuance and advisory services linked to artificial intelligence infrastructure investments.
The new partnerships with Verizon and Lockheed Martin strengthen Goldman’s portfolio of enduring institutional relationships, providing a counterbalance to the firm’s more volatile business segments.
The agreements were announced Thursday morning and rank among the largest recent developments in the outsourced investment management industry.
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Key Highlights
Ben Bernanke, former Federal Reserve Chairman, has been named to Anthropic’s Long-Term Benefit Trust
The independent oversight body advises the AI company and possesses authority to appoint board directors
Bernanke received the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2022 for his Great Depression research
Trust participants receive no ownership stake in Anthropic and are compensated solely for their service
The AI firm carries a $965 billion valuation and is considering an IPO in the coming months
Anthropic has announced that Ben Bernanke, who previously led the United States Federal Reserve, will join its Long-Term Benefit Trust. The artificial intelligence company made the announcement public on Thursday, July 9.
https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/2075260297120555205?s=20
The Long-Term Benefit Trust serves as Anthropic’s independent oversight mechanism. This body provides strategic guidance to the organization and maintains the authority to select and dismiss the majority of its board representatives.
Bernanke’s tenure as Federal Reserve chair spanned from 2006 through 2014. He succeeded Alan Greenspan and navigated the central bank through the tumultuous 2008 financial crisis, implementing unprecedented policies including near-zero interest rates and large-scale asset purchases.
Following his departure from the Fed, Bernanke accepted positions with the Brookings Institution, Citadel, and Pimco. His academic work examining the factors behind the Great Depression earned him the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2022.
“Artificial intelligence holds tremendous potential, but its trajectory remains uncertain,” Bernanke stated. “The ultimate impact will be shaped significantly by the governance frameworks we establish today.”
The Trust’s Structure and Function
The Long-Term Benefit Trust functions separately from [[LINK_START_0]]Anthropic’s[[LINK_END_0]] executive leadership and financial backers. Trust participants are selected based on their diverse professional backgrounds and specialized knowledge.
A defining feature of the trust is that its members receive no equity compensation in Anthropic. Their remuneration is strictly limited to payment for their time and contributions. The existing trustees collaborate with company leadership to identify and appoint new members.
With Bernanke’s addition, the trust now comprises four members. The other trustees include Neil Buddy Shah, who leads the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Richard Fontaine, a specialist in national security matters, and Mariano-Florentino Cuéllar, an expert in international affairs who joined in January 2026.
Anthropic’s Background and Trajectory
Anthropic emerged in 2021 when a group of researchers and senior leaders departed from OpenAI. The organization is structured as a public benefit corporation, a legal framework that requires balancing profit motives with positive societal impact.
The company’s current valuation stands at $965 billion. Leadership is evaluating options for an initial public offering that could materialize within the current year.
Bernanke’s appointment is expected to provide Anthropic with deeper insights into artificial intelligence’s economic implications. His extensive experience with financial systems and managing large-scale economic challenges is considered particularly valuable for this mission.
“Anthropic has established an innovative governance framework designed to maximize AI’s long-term benefits for society while minimizing potential harms,” Bernanke remarked. “I’m privileged to contribute to this important work.”
The addition of Bernanke brings significant economic expertise to a trust already dedicated to ensuring responsible AI development and long-term safety considerations.
As Anthropic moves closer to a possible public market debut later this year, the company continues strengthening its governance infrastructure.
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Key Takeaways
Secondary market valuations place Anthropic at $1.2 trillion, representing a 550% surge year-over-year
Investor appetite dramatically outweighs available shares, with current shareholders reluctant to part with equity
Special purpose vehicles facilitate the majority of transactions, despite the company’s official disapproval
OpenAI’s secondary market standing now sits at $908 billion, trailing its competitor
A confidential IPO filing was submitted to the SEC by Anthropic in early June 2026
The artificial intelligence firm Anthropic, creator of the Claude AI assistant, has achieved a staggering $1.2 trillion valuation in secondary market trading. This milestone positions the company as the world’s highest-valued private artificial intelligence venture, surpassing its primary competitor OpenAI.
BREAKING: Anthropic just hit $1.2 TRILLION on secondary markets. Almost nobody can actually buy in
Once public markets get to set the price, does $1.2T look cheap, or crazy? pic.twitter.com/g7sJI4aRsO
— Ruben (@rdominguezibar) July 9, 2026
This remarkable $1.2 trillion valuation marks a 550% climb compared to the same period last year, as reported by Javier Avalos, who serves as cofounder and chief executive of Caplight, a platform specializing in private secondary market transactions.
Avalos characterized Anthropic as representing “the most sought-after company the venture secondary market has ever seen.”
Limited Supply Creates Transaction Bottleneck
While investor interest remains extraordinarily high, actual completed deals remain surprisingly scarce. Glen Anderson, who heads Rainmaker Securities as CEO, verified that transactions are indeed occurring at the $1.2 trillion valuation mark, though successful closings happen infrequently.
“The demand outstrips the supply in Anthropic so much that it’s rare to get a trade done because no one’s selling,” Anderson told Business Insider.
Since neither Anthropic nor OpenAI trades on public exchanges, interested investors must navigate secondary markets to acquire ownership stakes. This requires finding employees or early-stage backers willing to liquidate their positions — a challenging endeavor given most stakeholders prefer to hold.
Some eager investors have resorted to extraordinary measures in their pursuit of Anthropic equity, including proposals to trade residential properties in exchange for company shares.
Special Purpose Vehicles Dominate Trading Activity Despite Corporate Resistance
The transactions that do materialize predominantly utilize special purpose vehicles, commonly known as SPVs. These financial structures aggregate capital from numerous investors to execute a single unified transaction.
Anthropic has taken a firm public stance against this approach. The company’s official website includes a clear warning: “Invest at your own risk: if someone offers you a way to participate, even on an indirect basis, in an investment in Anthropic, assume that it is invalid.”
Avalos additionally highlighted that SPV arrangements frequently carry substantial fees that buyers must absorb.
Anthropic’s most recent formal capital raise, a Series H round finalized in late May 2026, established the company’s valuation at $965 billion. Current secondary market pricing of $1.2 trillion represents a significant premium over that official figure.
OpenAI, which maintained valuation superiority over Anthropic for an extended period, currently trades at $908 billion on the Caplight platform.
This valuation divergence between the two AI leaders also manifests in their latest primary funding rounds. OpenAI secured an $852 billion valuation following its March 2026 financing, while Anthropic commanded $965 billion in its Series H.
Investor enthusiasm for OpenAI had experienced a relative lull until recent developments. The company’s launch of its GPT-5.6 model family, featuring the premium “Sol” model alongside the cost-effective “Terra” variant, has sparked renewed purchasing interest, Anderson observed.
Regarding the comparative demand between the two organizations, Avalos estimated approximately five potential Anthropic investors for every two seeking OpenAI exposure.
Anthropic submitted a confidential initial public offering prospectus to the Securities and Exchange Commission in early June 2026. Company representatives have indicated that the ultimate timing for any public market debut will be determined by prevailing market conditions.
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