Blockonomi

TLDR:

Moody’s assigned a provisional Ba2 rating to a $100M Bitcoin-backed New Hampshire municipal bond, a market first.

The bond requires 160% Bitcoin overcollateralization held by BitGo, with no taxpayer backing involved at all.

The speculative-grade Ba2 rating targets risk-tolerant investors while excluding most conservative institutional portfolios.

Bitcoin’s entry into credit rating systems could reshape its role across the $140 trillion global bond market.

Moody’s has assigned a provisional Ba2 rating to a $100 million Bitcoin-backed municipal bond in New Hampshire, marking a historic first for crypto in public debt markets.

The rating gives institutional investors a recognized framework to assess crypto-linked fixed income. It comes as regulatory clarity around blockchain-based instruments continues to grow.

The move positions Bitcoin as a credible collateral asset within traditional credit evaluation systems for the first time.

New Hampshire Bond Becomes First Crypto-Backed Issuance to Receive Credit Rating

The bond is structured through New Hampshire’s Business Finance Authority as a conduit instrument. It carries no taxpayer backing, separating it from conventional municipal debt. Bitcoin held in custody by BitGo serves as the sole protection for investors.

The borrower is required to post roughly 160% in Bitcoin as collateral. Liquidation triggers activate automatically if collateral levels fall below set thresholds. This overcollateralization model is familiar to fixed-income investors, though the underlying asset is new territory.

Moody’s based the Ba2 rating on three core risk areas: Bitcoin’s volatility, the bond’s structure, and operational factors. The speculative-grade rating makes the bond suitable for risk-tolerant investors.

NEW: Bitcoin-Backed Muni Bond Gets First Moody’s Rating; Stablecoin Yield Text Delayed

Lots of news this Wednesday. Read it all in today’s @CryptoAmerica_ newsletter from yours truly. https://t.co/J3MfVeV02k

— Eleanor Terrett (@EleanorTerrett) April 1, 2026

More conservative portfolios, such as pension funds and investment-grade mandates, remain largely outside the scope of this instrument.

The rating was first reported by Crypto In America in November, ahead of the formal Moody’s assessment. With the rating now official, institutional capital has a recognized entry point into Bitcoin-backed fixed income. That is a meaningful shift in how traditional finance can engage with digital assets.

Bitcoin Enters the $140 Trillion Global Bond Market Through Credit Framework

The Ba2 rating places Bitcoin-backed debt within the same evaluative system used for sovereign and corporate bonds. Traditional bonds rely on predictable cash flows or government taxing power as their foundation.

This bond relies entirely on the market value of Bitcoin held as collateral, which is a structural departure from convention.

Still, the credit rating bridges that gap for many institutional investors. A Moody’s rating provides the due diligence shorthand that large allocators require before entering a new asset class. Without it, most institutional portfolios could not touch this instrument regardless of appetite.

The U.S. Labor Department also issued a proposal this week to allow alternative assets, including cryptocurrency, in retirement accounts.

That development runs parallel to the Moody’s rating in expanding crypto’s access to institutional capital channels. Together, both moves reflect a broader shift in how regulators and credit agencies are treating digital assets.

Bitcoin’s entry into the credit ratings system carries long-term weight for the bond market. The $140 trillion global bond market has remained largely untouched by crypto until now. This rating may serve as the benchmark structure for future Bitcoin-backed debt issuances.

The post Moody’s Assigns First-Ever Rating to Bitcoin-Backed Municipal Bond in Historic Crypto Finance Move appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights

ACHR advanced approximately 5% during Tuesday’s session to reach $5.185, up from the previous day’s close of $4.94, with trading volume hitting ~33.5 million shares.

The company fell short of Q4 projections for both earnings per share (($0.26) actual vs. ($0.17) forecast) and quarterly revenue ($0.30M actual vs. $1.4M forecast).

Institutional investors now control more than 50% of shares, including Vanguard Index Funds’ 5.86% position and ARK’s holdings of roughly 35 million shares.

Wall Street consensus remains at “Moderate Buy” with a mean price objective of $12.00; TipRanks shows an average projection of $13.20.

Archer concluded 2025 holding approximately $2 billion in liquid assets and received FAA approval for its eVTOL compliance methodology, maintaining its late 2026 passenger service launch schedule.

Archer Aviation ($ACHR) shares have declined approximately 30% since the beginning of 2026, but Tuesday brought a modest recovery as the stock advanced roughly 5% intraday to $5.185, briefly hitting $5.23 during the session. Monday’s closing price stood at $4.94.

Trading activity reached approximately 33.5 million shares, representing about 7% less than the typical daily volume of roughly 35.9 million. The security’s 50-day simple moving average stands at $6.83, while the 200-day average rests at $8.41, indicating that both short-term and long-term technical indicators remain significantly above present trading levels.

The company’s latest quarterly financial results, published on March 2, presented challenges for shareholders. Archer reported a per-share loss of ($0.26), falling short of the analyst consensus forecast of ($0.17) by nine cents. Quarterly revenue totaled just $0.30 million, substantially below the anticipated $1.40 million. However, revenue demonstrated a remarkable 29,900% year-over-year increase from an essentially negligible base.

Despite the earnings shortfall, the company maintains a robust financial position. Archer finished 2025 holding approximately $2 billion in cash reserves, carrying a minimal debt-to-equity ratio of just 0.05, and showing a current ratio of 19.89. This financial runway provides management with flexibility to pursue commercial objectives without immediate capital constraints.

Regarding regulatory progress, the FAA has approved Archer’s eVTOL compliance methodology, preserving the company’s schedule for initial commercial passenger operations. Management continues to target a service debut by late 2026. This upcoming milestone represents a cornerstone of the investment thesis for bullish investors.

Wall Street Perspectives Vary, With Bullish Bias

Analyst opinion remains divided but leans optimistic. Five analysts assign a Buy rating, two recommend Hold, and one maintains a Sell rating. The mean price objective among analysts reaches $12.00, indicating significant appreciation potential from present levels. TipRanks, incorporating more current analyst updates, displays a Strong Buy consensus with a $13.20 mean target — suggesting possible upside of approximately 148% from the $5.185 level.

Needham reduced its price objective from $10.00 to $9.00 in early March while maintaining a Buy recommendation. Goldman Sachs launched coverage with a Neutral stance and an $11.00 target in December. Weiss Ratings continues to hold a Sell rating.

Insider transactions have skewed toward stock sales recently. During the past 90 days, company insiders disposed of approximately 380,750 shares worth roughly $2.6 million. CTO Thomas Muniz sold 9,580 shares on March 13 at $6.27 per share, while insider Tosha Perkins sold 10,949 shares at the identical price on the same date.

Large Investors Accumulate Shares

Notwithstanding the stock’s recent decline, major investors have expanded their holdings. Institutional and hedge fund ownership currently represents approximately 59% of outstanding shares. ARK Investment Management controls approximately 35.2 million shares following an addition of roughly 3.9 million shares during Q4. BNP Paribas expanded its stake by 423% in Q4, elevating its total position to approximately 5.1 million shares.

Vanguard Index Funds maintains a 5.86% ownership stake, positioning them as the top institutional shareholder. CEO Adam Goldstein holds approximately 4.89% of outstanding shares.

Among exchange-traded funds, the SPDR S&P Aerospace & Defense ETF ($XAR) maintains a 2.94% position, with the ARK Innovation ETF ($ARKK) holding 2.58%.

The company’s market capitalization stands at $3.86 billion with a beta of 3.10, demonstrating the stock’s tendency toward heightened volatility compared to broader market movements.

The post Archer Aviation (ACHR) Stock Gains 5% Despite Mixed Q4 Earnings Report appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

Beyond Meat shares tumbled approximately 12% following a fourth-quarter revenue decline of 19.7% to $61.6 million, undershooting analyst projections

Jefferies downgraded its price target from $1.25 to $0.70 while keeping a Hold rating on the stock

Fourth-quarter gross margin plummeted to merely 2.3%, with full-year adjusted EBITDA remaining substantially negative

Multiple delays in filing the annual report during March stemmed from “material weaknesses” related to inventory accounting practices

Analyst consensus leans toward Moderate Sell, with a mean price target of $0.85

Beyond Meat experienced a challenging trading session on Wednesday. Shares plunged roughly 12% following a lackluster fourth-quarter financial report that intensified concerns about the company’s future trajectory.

Fourth-quarter revenue totaled $61.6 million, representing a 19.7% decline compared to the same period last year and falling below Wall Street’s forecasts. The weakness extended across both retail and foodservice segments, indicating persistent challenges in the broader plant-based protein market.

Gross margin deteriorated sharply to only 2.3% during the quarter. Throughout the entire fiscal year, adjusted EBITDA stayed deeply in negative territory, despite the company posting net income boosted by a one-time, non-cash benefit related to debt reorganization.

While the debt restructuring provided some temporary relief for liquidity concerns, Jefferies analyst Kaumil Gajrawala emphasized that significant efforts remain necessary to curtail ongoing cash outflows.

Following the earnings release, Jefferies lowered its price target on BYND from $1.25 down to $0.70, maintaining a Hold recommendation. The revised target reflects 3.25 times the firm’s projected 2027 revenue of $250 million.

The investment firm highlighted limited clarity regarding when revenue trends might stabilize. Additionally, they observed that achieving meaningful margin expansion demands more favorable conditions than the present demand landscape provides.

Filing Delays Compound Investor Anxiety

Investor sentiment suffered an additional blow when Beyond Meat postponed its annual report submission on several occasions throughout March. Company leadership attributed the delays to “material weaknesses” in internal oversight mechanisms, particularly concerning inventory valuation and the treatment of obsolete inventory.

Such disclosures typically unsettle market participants, and this instance proved no exception. The revelations compounded an already challenging situation and prompted questions about management oversight and operational rigor.

Leadership is pursuing a repositioning initiative that encompasses expansion into related categories such as protein-based beverages and operational streamlining. However, uncertainty persists regarding whether these strategic pivots will successfully revitalize demand.

Trailing twelve-month revenue reached $291 million, accompanied by gross profit margins of merely 9.9%. The stock has declined 77% over the past twelve months.

Analyst Community Maintains Cautious Stance

The wider analyst community shows little inclination to upgrade their outlook on the stock. Current Wall Street sentiment reflects a Moderate Sell consensus on BYND, derived from one Hold recommendation and two Sell ratings issued within the last three months.

The consensus price target stands at $0.85, suggesting approximately 37% potential appreciation from present levels — though this spread primarily reflects the stock’s significant decline rather than renewed analyst confidence.

Beyond Meat has established an objective of achieving positive EBITDA by the latter part of 2026. Analysts express doubt about the company’s ability to meet this milestone given persistent margin headwinds and heightened scrutiny surrounding its internal control environment.

The company’s shares currently trade at $0.63.

The post Beyond Meat (BYND) Stock Plummets 12% Following Jefferies Price Target Cut to $0.70 appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Metaplanet erwarb 5.075 BTC im Wert von 400 Millionen Dollar im ersten Quartal 2026 und erhöhte die Gesamtreserven auf 40.177 Bitcoin weltweit.

Die Tokioter Firma hat MARA Holdings überholt und belegt nun den dritten Platz, nur hinter den 43.514 BTC Beständen von Twenty One Capital.

Das Bitcoin-Einkommensgeschäft von Metaplanet erzielte im ersten Quartal 19,8 Millionen Dollar und senkte die Nettokosten für den Erwerb um etwa 3.900 Dollar pro BTC.

Von unter 2.000 BTC Anfang 2025 wuchs Metaplanet die Reserven um 2.180 % und zielt auf 100.000 BTC bis Ende 2026.

Metaplanet, eine an der Tokioter Börse gelistete Investmentfirma, hat 5.075 BTC im Wert von etwa 400 Millionen Dollar im ersten Quartal 2026 erworben. Dies bringt die gesamten Bitcoin-Reserven auf 40.177 BTC, die auf 2,7 Milliarden Dollar geschätzt werden.

Key Takeaways

Iranian forces launched an attack on an Amazon Web Services data center located in Bahrain, resulting in temporary service disruptions

This marks the second assault on Amazon’s Bahrain infrastructure; previous strikes targeted facilities in the UAE

On March 31, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard designated 18 American technology corporations as legitimate military objectives

The threat roster features major corporations such as Microsoft, Nvidia, Google, Apple, Meta, Tesla, and additional tech leaders

Iranian authorities justify these operations by claiming the data centers facilitate U.S. military and intelligence operations

Amazon’s cloud services division has experienced another assault in the Middle Eastern theater. On Wednesday, Iranian forces targeted an AWS data center in Bahrain, leading to temporary service interruptions.

BREAKING: Iran has targeted the Batelco headquarters in Hamala, Bahrain, which houses Amazon Web Services (AWS) infrastructure. Bahrain’s Interior Ministry confirmed civil defense teams are responding to the strike. #Bahrain #AWS #Breaking pic.twitter.com/lhwKu6jSBb

— GCO (@GCO_Global) April 1, 2026

This represents the second attack on Amazon’s Bahrain infrastructure. Previously during the ongoing hostilities, Iranian forces struck two AWS facilities in the United Arab Emirates along with another commercial data center in Bahrain.

Bahrain’s interior ministry verified that Civil Defence personnel responded to a blaze at the location following the Iranian offensive. Officials indicated they were implementing security protocols at the site.

Prior to this recent assault, Amazon had already issued warnings that its AWS infrastructure in Bahrain faced disruption due to “drone activity” in the vicinity.

The attacks have triggered widespread outages affecting applications and digital platforms throughout the UAE and surrounding territories. Financial institutions and governmental organizations dependent on AWS systems experienced service interruptions.

Revolutionary Guard Names American Tech Companies as Military Objectives

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the attacks were directed at data facilities that provide support for “the adversary’s” military and intelligence functions.

On March 31, Iranian authorities formally classified 18 American technology enterprises as valid military targets. This designation encompasses Amazon, Microsoft, Nvidia, Google, Apple, Meta, HP, Tesla, Oracle, Boeing, Cisco, and IBM.

The April 1 assault on Amazon’s Bahrain operation represented the first confirmed direct attack on a specifically named U.S. technology company following that declaration.

Iran’s focus on data center infrastructure demonstrates a comprehensive tactical approach. Reports indicate that U.S. military personnel have utilized artificial intelligence platforms, including Anthropic’s Claude system, for analytical and operational purposes. AWS cloud infrastructure allegedly hosts classified government information and applications.

The reliance of U.S. military capabilities on AI systems has transformed cloud computing facilities into a novel battlefield dimension in the conflict.

Understanding Big Tech’s Middle Eastern Expansion

American technology corporations have pursued aggressive expansion strategies in the Middle East over recent years. Economical energy prices and abundant real estate made the region appealing for constructing AI infrastructure.

Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and other industry leaders have committed substantial capital to major data center developments throughout Gulf nations. This expansion strategy has now positioned them as physical targets within an active combat zone.

Wall Street analysts maintain a consensus Strong Buy rating on Amazon’s stock, with 43 analysts issuing opinions—40 Buy ratings and three Hold ratings over the past three months. The average analyst price target reaches $279.88, suggesting approximately 33% potential upside from present trading levels.

The Bahrain incident represents the latest verified attack on American technology infrastructure in the Middle Eastern region.

The post Amazon (AMZN) Bahrain Data Center Hit by Iranian Strike Amid Rising Tech Industry Threats appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Over $1 billion in ETH derivatives sell volume was recorded within one hour of Trump’s Iran remarks.

Binance alone absorbed $968 million of that selling pressure, the most of any exchange globally. 

ETH dropped approximately 4–5% intraday, trading at $2,047.24 with a 4.26% 24-hour decline. (

The S&P 500 shed $500 billion in market cap as Trump signaled possible strikes on Iran within weeks. 

ETH recorded over $1 billion in derivatives sell volume within one hour on Thursday. Markets had expected U.S. President Donald Trump to de-escalate tensions around the Iran conflict.

Instead, Trump stated the U.S. would strike Iran if necessary. He added the mission would end within two to three weeks. Global markets reacted sharply, sending shockwaves across traditional and crypto assets.

Derivatives Market Absorbs a Massive Wave of ETH Selling

The ETH derivatives market recorded more than $1 billion in sell orders in just one hour. Binance alone contributed $968 million of that volume within the same timeframe.

The exchange currently leads the entire industry in trading volume. This made the scale of the sell-off particularly notable. The concentration of selling on one platform raised concerns among market observers.

The sell-off unfolded swiftly and caught many market participants off guard. Selling pressure mounted quickly across major crypto derivatives platforms following Trump’s remarks.

ETH’s price fell by approximately 4–5% as a direct result. The move marked one of the sharper intraday corrections on the ETH chart in recent weeks.

Crypto analyst Darkfost flagged the sell-off on social media shortly after the event. The analyst pointed out that $968 million of that total came from Binance alone, within just one hour.

$1B in ETH selling hits derivatives in 1 hour After Trump’s speech.

While markets around the world were expecting a de-escalation speech from Donald Trump regarding the conflict with Iran, his remarks went in a completely different direction.

Instead, Trump made it clear… pic.twitter.com/nz6kIK1Clw

— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) April 2, 2026

As of writing, ETH is priced at $2,047.24, with a 24-hour trading volume of $20,741,030,628. The asset is down 4.26% over the past 24 hours and 3.55% over the past seven days.

Traditional Markets React Sharply to Trump’s Iran Comments

Trump’s remarks triggered an immediate and broad reaction across traditional financial markets. The S&P 500 lost $500 billion in market capitalization within minutes of his speech.

Traders processed the news rapidly and adjusted their positions across multiple asset classes. U.S. Treasury bonds, in contrast, moved higher during the same period. The divergence between equities and bonds pointed clearly to a risk-off response from global investors.

Investors shifted away from equities and riskier assets and moved toward safer instruments instead. This pattern quickly extended into the cryptocurrency market, pulling ETH lower along the way.

The correlation between traditional risk-off behavior and crypto selling became visible across multiple asset classes simultaneously. ETH’s seven-day decline of 3.55% reflected this sustained downward pressure.

The broader environment is now characterized by extreme uncertainty across all major asset classes. Price action in both traditional and crypto markets has grown increasingly erratic and unstable.

Geopolitical developments, particularly Trump’s Iran stance, are now acting as key drivers of market volatility. Market observers are advising traders to reduce risk exposure, avoid excessive leverage, and remain cautious until clearer signals emerge.

The post ETH Sees Over $1 Billion in Derivatives Selling After Trump’s Iran Remarks appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights

Merger negotiations between Estee Lauder (EL) and Puig are moving forward, with the potential transaction primarily structured as a stock deal

Bloomberg sources suggest an official announcement may arrive in the coming weeks

Marc Puig, Puig’s Executive Chairman, is anticipated to secure a board position in the merged entity

The proposed combination would establish a luxury beauty conglomerate worth approximately $40 billion

Since merger confirmation, EL shares have dropped roughly 15% while Puig stock has climbed 11%

The initial disclosure of merger negotiations between Estée Lauder and Puig came on March 23, when both corporations publicly acknowledged ongoing discussions without revealing specific deal parameters.

According to a Bloomberg report published April 1, sources with knowledge of the situation indicate that negotiations have advanced significantly, with a potential announcement timeline measured in weeks rather than months.

The deal structure under consideration would predominantly involve stock rather than cash. Both Estee Lauder and Puig declined to provide immediate commentary when contacted.

Should the transaction reach completion, it would unite iconic brands such as Tom Ford, Clinique, Carolina Herrera, and Rabanne within a single corporate umbrella.

The resulting company would command a valuation in the neighborhood of $40 billion, positioning it as a formidable player in the premium beauty industry.

Puig currently holds a market capitalization of roughly 9.8 billion euros. Estee Lauder’s shares, traded on the New York Stock Exchange, reflect a valuation near $27 billion.

Marc Puig, who transitioned out of the chief executive role just last month, is positioned to assume a board seat with the combined organization. Industry observers view him as instrumental to successful integration efforts.

His transition from CEO to Executive Chairman has been characterized as a deliberate preparation for increased merger and acquisition involvement.

Despite substantial progress, no binding agreement has been finalized. Bloomberg’s sources cautioned that negotiations remain fluid and could potentially stall or collapse.

Stock Performance Following News

Estee Lauder shares have experienced approximately 15% depreciation since the March 23 public confirmation of merger exploration. Puig’s Madrid-listed stock has demonstrated inverse momentum, appreciating roughly 11% during the identical timeframe.

The April 2 premarket session extended EL’s decline, with shares falling more than 2% immediately following Bloomberg’s updated reporting.

Strategic Context and Corporate Transformation

Estee Lauder is simultaneously executing a comprehensive organizational restructuring under CEO Stéphane de La Faverie. Key initiatives include accelerating digital commerce capabilities, with expanded distribution through platforms like Amazon.

Puig has similarly undergone internal reorganization, deliberately shifting Marc Puig away from operational responsibilities toward strategic transaction leadership.

The proposed merger would significantly bolster Estee Lauder’s fragrance capabilities, a category where Puig has cultivated substantial expertise and market presence. Estee Lauder currently ranks as the world’s second-largest cosmetics company, trailing only L’Oréal.

The post Estee Lauder (EL) Stock Slips 2% as Puig Merger Negotiations Progress appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Precious metals reversed course as spot gold declined 4.3% following Trump’s Middle East policy announcement

The President warned of intense military action against Iran within two to three weeks

Silver experienced a sharper 7% decline, with platinum and palladium following suit

UBS reaffirmed its positive gold stance, projecting $5,000 per ounce average for 2026

The investment bank sees potential dips to $4,000 as strategic entry points

Precious metals experienced a significant downturn Thursday following President Donald Trump’s evening address that created fresh uncertainty regarding the escalating Middle East situation.

The yellow metal plummeted by as much as 4.3%, halting its four-session rally. By 2:12 p.m. Singapore time, spot gold was changing hands at $4,562.88 per ounce. Meanwhile, silver suffered a steeper 7% decline to $69.86. Both platinum and palladium registered losses as well.

Micro Gold Futures,Jun-2026 (MGC=F)

In his address, Trump suggested the conflict was approaching its conclusion while simultaneously threatening to hit Iran “extremely hard” within the coming two to three weeks. The President claimed military objectives were close to completion and called on allies dependent on Middle Eastern energy supplies to assist in addressing the near-blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

NOW – Trump on Iran: "We're going to hit them extremely hard over the next 2-3 weeks. We're going to bring them back to the stone ages, where they belong!" pic.twitter.com/knSmNB9OQk

— Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) April 2, 2026

Prior to the conflict, the Strait of Hormuz served as a critical passage for approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Anxieties surrounding energy transportation through this strategic waterway contributed to rising crude prices.

The greenback strengthened, with the US dollar index climbing 0.4% after Trump’s remarks. Stock markets also retreated as investor risk tolerance diminished.

Christopher Wong, a strategist at Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp, observed that Trump’s address “essentially portrayed the conflict as a military victory narrative, rather than a peace agreement.” He pointed out that gold had touched an intra-day peak of $4,800 earlier, but suggested upward momentum might fade given concerns about potential US ground troops entering Iran.

Gold had already endured a challenging March. The precious metal plunged almost 12% during that period, marking its worst monthly showing since October 2008. Elevated crude prices sparked inflation worries, which diminished prospects for interest rate reductions and pressured gold values.

Prior to Trump’s speech, market participants had anticipated the Federal Reserve might lower rates to bolster economic activity if the conflict continued. That sentiment changed following the President’s aggressive stance.

With trading paused for the Good Friday holiday, Wong noted that investors’ desire to minimize exposure before the extended weekend also played a role in market movements.

UBS Maintains Optimistic Gold Perspective

Despite Thursday’s selloff, UBS is holding firm on its constructive gold outlook. Strategist Joni Teves stated in a Thursday research note that the firm interprets the price decline as an attractive buying opportunity.

UBS made a modest adjustment to its 2026 gold projection, lowering it to $5,000 per ounce from $5,200, acknowledging the recent retreat from January’s record peak. The firm’s 2027 outlook remains unchanged at $4,800, with 2028 at $4,250.

Teves explained that speculative positions have been unwound and exchange-traded fund redemptions have been limited, creating space for investors to reestablish holdings. Chinese gold ETFs continue registering net positive flows, while domestic physical buying remains robust.

According to UBS, any price correction approaching the $4,000 threshold should be considered an opportunity to accumulate positions.

Silver Projections Adjusted Lower

UBS reduced its 2026 silver target to $91.9 per ounce from $105. Teves highlighted that silver’s industrial applications make it more vulnerable to any deceleration in worldwide economic expansion.

Spot silver was last quoted at $69.86 on Thursday.

The post Gold Plunges Over 4% as Trump’s Iran Remarks Spark Major Market Reversal appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

GMX has facilitated over $363 billion in notional volume across eight chains, now adding MegaETH.

MegaETH processes up to 100,000 transactions per second with 10-millisecond block confirmation times.

Chainlink’s oracle infrastructure has enabled over $28 trillion in total transaction value across DeFi.

MegaETH’s Chainlink integration unlocks nearly $14 billion in assets for over 740,000 GMX traders.

GMX has launched perpetual markets on MegaETH, combining Chainlink Data Streams with the blockchain’s 10-millisecond block times.

The deployment brings real-time trade execution to one of DeFi’s most active perpetual exchanges. With over $363 billion in notional volume, GMX continues expanding its multichain presence.

This move aims to close the performance gap between decentralized and centralized trading platforms.

GMX Brings Real-Time Perpetual Trading to MegaETH

GMX’s integration with MegaETH marks a notable step in onchain derivatives trading. MegaETH processes up to 100,000 transactions per second, making it the first real-time blockchain.

These speeds allow GMX to offer faster price updates than most decentralized competitors. The result is a trading environment that mirrors the responsiveness of centralized exchanges.

Chainlink Data Streams serve as the oracle backbone for this deployment. The pull-based oracle solution delivers sub-second price data directly to GMX’s smart contracts.

This setup supports lower gas fees while maintaining accurate and timely price feeds. Chainlink’s infrastructure has already enabled over $28 trillion in transaction value across DeFi.

GMX first partnered with Chainlink Data Streams in 2023 following a community governance vote. That partnership laid the groundwork for GMX V2’s computationally dense contract architecture.

The current MegaETH deployment builds directly on that foundation. It runs on the same proven GMX stack operating across seven other chains.

The initial launch phase prioritizes stability and performance consistency across the network. A second phase will introduce MegaETH-specific optimizations without disrupting the existing trading experience.

GMX serves over 740,000 traders and integrates with more than 70 DeFi protocols. Adding MegaETH extends that reach to a new layer of high-throughput users.

MegaETH’s Chainlink Integration Opens Access to Major DeFi Assets

MegaETH joined the Chainlink Scale program last month, expanding its oracle capabilities. The integration covers Chainlink Data Feeds, Data Streams, and the Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol.

Through these tools, MegaETH users can now access nearly $14 billion in assets. These include Lido’s wstETH, Lombard’s BTC.b, and LBTC.

The Scale program connection also brings top DeFi protocols to MegaETH users immediately. Aave, Avon, HelloTrade, and GMX are among the protocols now accessible on the chain.

Each protocol benefits from Chainlink’s real-time oracle data flowing through MegaETH’s high-speed infrastructure. Together, they form a growing DeFi ecosystem built for performance.

A 2024 GMX case study confirmed Chainlink’s role in building secure, high-performance decentralized exchanges. The study showed how oracle quality directly affects user experience and platform safety.

Faster price updates reduce the risk of delayed liquidations during volatile market conditions. This directly protects traders from avoidable losses caused by stale price data.

As real-time blockchain infrastructure matures, partnerships like this one reflect where DeFi is heading. GMX and Chainlink are building tools that meet traders where centralized platforms currently operate.

MegaETH provides the speed layer that makes this possible at scale. The deployment represents a practical, tested approach to advancing perpetual market infrastructure onchain.

 

The post GMX Launches Chainlink-Powered Perpetual Markets on MegaETH for Real-Time DeFi Trading appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

Lufthansa could ground as many as 40 planes (approximately 5% of its total fleet) following Middle East fuel supply challenges

Closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted worldwide jet fuel availability, with Europe dependent on ~50% of supplies from Persian Gulf sources

Morgan Stanley reduced DLAKY rating from “overweight” to “equal-weight,” cutting its 2026 EBITDA projection by 17%

Elevated fuel expenses projected to deliver a €1.6bn cost impact and approximately €800m reduction in EBITDA

Load factors anticipated to decline roughly 2% year-over-year starting Q3 2026, while capacity expansion trimmed from 4% to 2.5%

Lufthansa faces mounting pressure this week as both a Wall Street downgrade and potential jet fuel shortages converge on the German aviation giant. The carrier stands among Europe’s most vulnerable airlines to ongoing energy market disruptions, and financial projections are beginning to capture this reality.

CEO Carsten Spohr has instructed planning teams to develop contingency strategies across various disruption scenarios. The most tangible measure under consideration: removing up to 40 aircraft from service, representing roughly 5% of the carrier’s total fleet. Leadership seems committed to controlling expenses proactively rather than reacting to declining passenger demand.

The underlying issue stems from the practical shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for international jet fuel transport. Asian refineries have already begun scaling back operations accordingly, while Europe faces particular vulnerability — approximately half of all European Union and United Kingdom jet fuel originates from Persian Gulf imports.

This supply constraint extends beyond mere pricing pressures. The possibility of actual fuel scarcity introduces operational uncertainty that’s extremely difficult to mitigate through hedging, particularly for an airline already trailing competitors in fuel hedge effectiveness.

Wall Street Firm Reduces Rating and Profit Projections

Morgan Stanley downgraded Lufthansa to “equal-weight” from “overweight” this Wednesday, pointing to diminished earnings prospects and inferior fuel hedging compared to rivals including IAG and Air France-KLM.

The investment bank slashed its 2026 EBITDA forecast for Lufthansa by 17% — significantly deeper than the 6% reduction applied to IAG or the 10% cut for Air France-KLM. This disparity stems primarily from hedging strategies. Morgan Stanley noted that Lufthansa’s fuel hedging “remains less attractive vs. peers.”

In absolute figures, the bank projects a €1.6bn fuel cost increase for the year, driving an approximately €800m decline in FY26 EBITDA compared to previous estimates.

Capacity expansion targets were similarly reduced, dropping from 4% to 2.5%, while load factors are expected to contract around 2% year-over-year beginning in Q3 2026.

Ticket Price Increases Provide Limited Relief

On the revenue front, Morgan Stanley anticipates Lufthansa will implement fare increases. Passenger yields are forecast to climb +7% in Q2, +11% in Q3, and +11% in Q4 of 2026.

However, these revenue improvements won’t completely counterbalance the fuel cost surge. Legacy carriers typically enjoy stronger pricing leverage than budget airlines, yet Lufthansa still emerges weaker than European counterparts when evaluating overall fuel cost exposure.

Notably, Morgan Stanley highlighted that Lufthansa’s year-to-date decline of approximately 9% remains substantially lower than the ~16% drops experienced by IAG and Air France-KLM, describing this disparity as “a disconnect we view as unjustified.”

The shares had surged as much as 8.1% during early Frankfurt trading Tuesday following initial news of the contingency planning — after having declined roughly 16% year-to-date at that juncture. Despite this temporary recovery, the downgrade and fuel outlook continue weighing on share performance.

The post Lufthansa (DLAKY) Stock Tumbles Following Morgan Stanley Downgrade Amid Fuel Crisis appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Crude oil prices rallied approximately 7%, pushing Brent crude above $107 and WTI near $106 per barrel

President Trump announced plans to strike Iran “extremely hard” within the next two to three weeks

U.S. equity futures declined over 0.8% following Trump’s prime-time Wednesday evening speech

Trump indicated other nations should assume primary responsibility for reopening the Strait of Hormuz

Tehran’s Foreign Ministry refuted Trump’s assertion that Iran had requested a ceasefire

Crude oil markets experienced a dramatic surge of nearly 7% on Thursday following President Trump’s announcement that U.S. military operations against Iran would intensify over the coming two to three weeks. The dramatic price movement followed Trump’s nationwide address delivered Wednesday evening.

Brent crude futures climbed to approximately $107.86 per barrel after trading below the $100 threshold earlier in the session. West Texas Intermediate crude similarly advanced to around $106.77 per barrel. Both benchmark contracts initially opened lower Thursday morning before reversing sharply higher.

Brent Crude Oil Last Day Financ (BZ=F)

U.S. stock index futures dropped more than 0.8% in the aftermath of the presidential address. Futures contracts tied to the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq 100 all registered losses as of 10:15 p.m. ET on Wednesday.

BREAKING: Brent crude oil prices officially surge above $110/barrel, now up another +7% tonight. pic.twitter.com/2XM5o66spJ

— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) April 2, 2026

During his address, Trump informed the American public that military strikes against Iran would come “extremely hard” in the upcoming weeks. He emphasized that preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons capabilities remains the primary objective.

“We’re going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks. We’re going to bring them back to the Stone Ages where they belong,” Trump declared during his national address.

The president had earlier indicated to reporters on Tuesday that U.S. forces could withdraw from Iran within a two to three-week timeframe, potentially without securing a formal agreement. While he reiterated this timeline during Wednesday’s speech, Trump provided no indication that a ceasefire arrangement was imminent.

Prior to delivering his televised remarks, Trump claimed via social media that Iran’s “new regime president” had requested a ceasefire. Iran’s Foreign Ministry promptly rejected this characterization, with state-controlled media reporting that Tehran had made no such overture.

Strait of Hormuz Uncertainty

Trump stated that other countries should assume the primary role in efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic 21-mile-wide passage serves as a vital energy transit point, with roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments flowing through the waterway.

“We will be helpful, but they should take the lead,” Trump stated, emphasizing that other nations “must cherish it” and “must grab it.” He further suggested the strait might “open up naturally.”

The crucial waterway continues to face disruptions with no definitive timeline established for when oil transportation could normalize. Market participants remain concerned about future supply availability.

Oil Market and US Stocks

Trump additionally asserted that the U.S. has achieved complete energy independence from Middle Eastern oil. Nevertheless, energy analysts have noted this claim oversimplifies the reality of globally interconnected oil pricing mechanisms.

The Energy Information Administration disclosed that U.S. crude oil stockpiles increased by approximately 5.5 million barrels during the week ending March 27, surpassing analyst projections.

Equity futures continued facing downward pressure as market participants assessed the implications of a potentially prolonged military conflict and its ramifications for worldwide petroleum supplies.

The post Crude Oil Prices Spike 7% as Trump Announces Expanded Iran Military Operations appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights

Financial Times reports Amazon pursuing approximately $9 billion acquisition of Globalstar

Premarket trading shows Globalstar (GSAT) climbing 12.3% while Amazon (AMZN) drops nearly 2%

Deal faces complexity due to Apple’s 20% ownership position in Globalstar

Amazon’s Leo satellite network currently operates 180 satellites with ambitions for 3,200

SpaceX’s confidential IPO filing highlights Starlink’s role in potential $1.75 trillion valuation

According to a Wednesday Financial Times report, Amazon has entered advanced negotiations to purchase satellite communications provider Globalstar in a transaction estimated at approximately $9 billion.

$AMZN is reportedly in talks to buy $GSAT as it looks to strengthen its satellite ambitions against Starlink.

The deal would give Amazon a bigger foothold in space-based connectivity as Project Kuiper scales. pic.twitter.com/t9PcqKYDtJ

— Shay Boloor (@StockSavvyShay) April 1, 2026

The revelation triggered a 12.3% surge in Globalstar shares during Thursday’s premarket session. Conversely, Amazon stock declined nearly 2% during the same period.

At Wednesday’s market close, Globalstar carried a market capitalization of $8.81 billion. The company’s stock value has experienced more than 100% growth over the preceding twelve months.

According to sources with knowledge of the situation cited by the FT, Amazon and Globalstar have maintained ongoing discussions but continue navigating the intricate details of a prospective agreement.

Both corporations remained silent on the matter. Globalstar failed to respond to inquiries seeking comment, while Amazon explicitly declined to provide a statement.

Apple’s Investment Creates Complications

A significant complicating factor in the negotiations stems from Apple’s 20% equity position in Globalstar. This ownership arrangement necessitates that any finalized deal would require coordination between Amazon and Apple, introducing additional complexity to an already multifaceted transaction.

Apple has incorporated Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure into its Emergency SOS functionality for iPhone devices, establishing a relationship between the companies that extends beyond mere financial investment.

Amazon’s Strategy to Rival Starlink

Should the acquisition reach completion, it would represent a strategic move to expedite Amazon’s satellite program objectives. The company’s network, currently branded as Leo and previously identified as Project Kuiper, has deployed 180 satellites to date with projections calling for a 3,200-satellite constellation.

This positioning still places Amazon considerably behind SpaceX’s Starlink operation, which maintains more than 9,500 active satellites and provides service to over nine million subscribers worldwide.

Starlink contributes between 50% and 80% of SpaceX’s overall revenue streams. The service caters to diverse clientele including individual subscribers, commercial enterprises, and U.S. national security organizations through its Starshield variant.

Integrating Globalstar’s established infrastructure would potentially deliver Amazon’s Leo network a substantial enhancement in both coverage footprint and operational capacity.

The report’s timing carries significance. SpaceX independently announced Wednesday that it has submitted a confidential filing for a U.S. initial public offering. Industry analysts project that Starlink could represent the majority of SpaceX’s estimated $1.75 trillion valuation, positioning it to become history’s largest stock market debut if executed.

Amazon’s Leo platform is broadly recognized as Starlink’s most viable competitor, despite the considerable disparity in deployed satellite numbers.

Globalstar maintains its headquarters in Covington, Louisiana, delivering low-earth-orbit communication solutions encompassing voice, data transmission, and asset monitoring capabilities to enterprise, government, and consumer sectors.

Discussions between the two corporations remain active, with no transaction formally confirmed.

The post Amazon (AMZN) Pursues $9B Globalstar (GSAT) Acquisition to Challenge SpaceX’s Starlink appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

CFTC published its first crypto asset taxonomy in March, distinguishing digital securities from digital commodities for market clarity.

The agency partnered with the SEC on Project Crypto in January to harmonize federal oversight across digital asset markets.

CFTC is finalizing de minimis exemptions to ease swap market access for energy, agriculture, and critical mineral producers.

The Commitment of Traders report is set for more frequent publication, addressing a long-standing request from agricultural businesses.

CFTC Chairman Michael Selig has completed his first 100 days leading the agency, outlining progress across crypto regulation, agricultural market access, and rollback of Biden-era policies.

Selig oversees a commission regulating more than $500 trillion in annual notional financial activity. His tenure has focused on reducing compliance burdens, advancing crypto clarity, and restoring confidence among American farmers and ranchers.

Crypto Regulation Takes Center Stage Under New CFTC Leadership

The CFTC has moved quickly to establish clearer rules for digital asset markets. In January, the agency partnered with the SEC on Project Crypto to harmonize federal oversight. This joint effort aimed to reduce regulatory overlap between the two agencies.

In March, the commission published the first formal crypto asset taxonomy. The document distinguishes between digital securities and digital commodities. This classification system had long been requested by industry participants seeking regulatory certainty.

The agency also issued no-action relief to a digital wallet software developer during the same month. Additionally, it delivered guidance on tokenized collateral for market participants. These steps collectively signal a more structured approach to crypto oversight.

Selig also launched an Innovation Task Force within the commission. The task force focuses on building clear regulatory frameworks for novel derivatives products. As he noted on X:

In my first 100 days as @CFTC Chairman, I’ve made significant progress in expanding access to risk management tools for farmers and ranchers, rolling back outdated rules and regulations, and delivering on @POTUS’ promise to make America the crypto capital of the world. 
 
The…

— Mike Selig (@ChairmanSelig) April 1, 2026

The CFTC is now preparing to regulate a $3 trillion crypto asset market. Congressional legislation on crypto market structure is also expected soon. Selig has positioned the agency to assume a larger oversight role once that legislation passes.

Agricultural Relief and Regulatory Reform Drive Domestic Policy Shifts

The CFTC has revitalized its Agricultural Advisory Committee under Selig’s direction. The committee gives farmers, credit providers, and commodity market participants direct input. This move reconnects the agency with its original mandate of supporting agricultural markets.

The commission is also working to finalize de minimis threshold exemptions. These exemptions would ease compliance requirements for energy, agriculture, and critical mineral producers. Smaller businesses have historically faced barriers in accessing commodity swaps markets.

The agency is also updating the Commitment of Traders report. Plans include publishing it more frequently, which has been a long-standing request from agricultural businesses. More timely data supports better risk management decisions for growers.

Selig dismantled the agency’s Climate Risk Unit and rescinded related initiatives. He described the CFTC as a financial regulator, not a platform for political projects. The agency is also ending what he called a “regulation through enforcement” approach that drove innovation offshore.

The post CFTC Chairman Selig Marks 100 Days with Crypto, Farm, and Deregulation Push appeared first on Blockonomi.

Wichtige Highlights

Binance Coin wird derzeit unter 591 $ gehandelt, was die dritte Woche in Folge im Minus markiert

Geopolitische Spannungen eskalierten nach den Drohungen von Präsident Trump gegen die iranische Infrastruktur, was eine risikoscheue Stimmung auslöste

Binance hat eine Prognosemarktplattform vorgestellt, die in seine Selbstverwahrung-Wallet-Lösung integriert ist

Kritische Unterstützungszone zwischen 570 $ und 600 $ identifiziert; Aufwärtswiderstandsziele von 640 $ bis 680 $

Die Positionierung der Trader zeigt ein Verhältnis von Long zu Short von 0,80, was die vorherrschende bärische Stimmung widerspiegelt

Key Highlights

Former FTX engineering chief Nishad Singh has settled with the CFTC for $3.7 million in disgorgement payments

Singh faces a five-year commodity trading prohibition and an eight-year CFTC registration restriction

Authorities reduced sanctions in recognition of his substantial assistance during the investigation

Singh escaped incarceration, instead receiving credit for time served plus three years under supervision

FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, serving 25 years in prison, has submitted a request for a retrial

Nishad Singh, who served as FTX’s top engineering executive, has reached a settlement agreement with the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission requiring him to pay $3.7 million related to the cryptocurrency platform’s dramatic implosion in November 2022.

Ex-FTX engineering chief Nishad Singh will have to return $3.7 million in illegal profits under a settlement with the US derivatives regulator over his role at the collapsed cryptocurrency exchange https://t.co/NWWZ06eXU4

— Bloomberg (@business) April 1, 2026

On April 1, 2026, the CFTC made the settlement public via a supplemental consent order. The $3.7 million payment represents disgorgement, which means Singh is returning money connected to regulatory violations instead of paying a separate penalty.

The settlement also imposes a five-year prohibition on Singh’s participation in commodity trading activities and an eight-year bar from registering with the regulatory agency. This registration restriction prevents him from securing professional licensing within the commodities sector.

CFTC enforcement chief David Miller stated that no further restitution payments or civil fines would be assessed currently. He emphasized that the decision factors in Singh’s willingness to assist authorities.

“The defendant engaged in, and aided, violations of the Act and CFTC regulations as the former FTX head of engineering,” Miller said. “But this resolution also reflects the Commission’s commitment to rewarding and incentivizing material assistance in Division investigations.”

Legal representatives for Singh expressed appreciation for the case’s conclusion and noted the CFTC’s acknowledgment of his minimal involvement in the core misconduct.

Multiple Regulatory Actions Targeted Singh

The CFTC initially brought charges against Singh in February 2023 on two allegations: fraudulent misappropriation and assisting former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried in committing fraud. He signed a consent order by April 2023 and committed to working with regulatory officials.

The Securities and Exchange Commission launched its own enforcement action against Singh in February 2023, alleging he participated in the misuse of client assets. That matter concluded in December with an eight-year ban from the securities industry.

Federal prosecutors also brought criminal indictments against Singh along with four other associates on various charges including fraud and illegal campaign contributions. Despite facing potential decades behind bars, Singh collaborated with law enforcement and provided testimony against Bankman-Fried. His sentence ultimately consisted of time already served and three years of monitored release.

The FTX cryptocurrency exchange failed spectacularly in November 2022, erasing billions of dollars in valuation and sparking extensive criminal probes into company executives.

Bankman-Fried Pursues Retrial

Separately, FTX’s founder Sam Bankman-Fried, who is presently incarcerated while serving a 25-year sentence following convictions on seven fraud and conspiracy charges, has submitted a motion requesting a new trial. He personally filed the motion, contending that critical witness statements were excluded from his 2023 proceedings.

The FTX Recovery Trust revealed earlier this year that it planned to distribute $2.2 billion to affected creditors in March 2026.

The post Former FTX Engineer Nishad Singh Settles CFTC Case for $3.7 Million appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights

eToro has activated cryptocurrency trading services for New York residents, more than three years following its BitLicense approval in February 2023

New York users initially have access to approximately 20 digital assets, a fraction of the 115+ available in other jurisdictions

The company became the first BitLicense recipient following the FTX bankruptcy, which heightened regulatory oversight

Staking services for New York customers are in development, awaiting regulatory clearance

eToro deliberately postponed its New York launch during the previous administration due to an unfavorable regulatory climate for crypto

The multi-asset trading platform eToro has officially activated cryptocurrency trading capabilities for New York residents, over three years following its BitLicense approval from the New York State Department of Financial Services in February 2023.

CRYPTO: ETORO GOES LIVE WITH CRYPTO TRADING IN NEW YORK, EXPANDS ACCESS TO 48 US STATES@eToro has launched crypto trading for New York residents, making it one of just 33 entities to activate the coveted New York BitLicense for live services. The platform now offers digital… pic.twitter.com/mKbHZAVhAB

— BSCN (@BSCNews) April 1, 2026

The initial offering includes approximately 20 digital tokens. This represents a significantly smaller selection compared to the more than 115 cryptocurrency assets eToro provides across 74 nations and 47 additional U.S. states where the platform currently operates.

Andrew McCormick, who leads eToro’s U.S. operations, acknowledged the launch during a recent interview. While recognizing the delay exceeded initial projections, he emphasized the significance of this achievement considering the limited number of companies that have successfully obtained and activated their BitLicense.

“We understood it wouldn’t be an immediate ‘day one, flip a switch’ scenario,” McCormick explained. “Our expectation was potentially launching within that first year.”

Since New York introduced the BitLicense framework in 2015, regulatory authorities have granted approval to fewer than 40 companies. A notable portion of approved firms never proceed to actually provide cryptocurrency services within the state.

According to McCormick, eToro holds the distinction of being the initial company granted a BitLicense following the November 2022 collapse of FTX. That catastrophic event significantly elevated regulatory approval standards.

“That event definitely intensified the examination and due diligence process,” he noted. “We take pride in successfully navigating those elevated standards.”

Factors Behind the Extended Timeline

According to McCormick, eToro strategically chose not to expedite its launch during the Biden administration. He characterized that timeframe as an inhospitable environment for cryptocurrency investment and expansion within the United States.

Additionally, the company concentrated its efforts on completing its initial public offering during the previous year, which McCormick indicated became the top strategic priority.

eToro continues to exclude Hawaii and Nevada from its crypto offerings, alongside New York’s previous absence.

Plans for Staking and National Regulatory Framework

eToro intends to introduce staking capabilities for its New York customer base. McCormick explained this addition necessitates submitting an updated business plan to regulatory authorities and is currently “in the pipeline.”

Regarding federal cryptocurrency regulation, McCormick voiced his backing for the U.S. House’s Clarity Act, legislation that would establish comprehensive crypto market structure guidelines at the national level while delineating responsibilities between the SEC and CFTC.

“I believe having B-plus legislation is preferable to having no legislation at all,” he stated. “The present regulatory landscape involves 50 separate states each implementing different requirements.”

The Clarity Act remains gridlocked in Congress as legislators continue debating specific provisions.

eToro’s platform encompasses stocks, ETFs, indices, currencies, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. The New York activation represents a substantial addition to the company’s U.S. cryptocurrency presence, with intentions to progressively expand the available token selection.

McCormick highlighted that eToro maintains a constructive working relationship with the New York Department of Financial Services, characterizing the regulatory body as meticulous yet supportive toward the companies under its supervision.

The post eToro Activates Crypto Trading in New York Three Years After BitLicense Approval appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights

Total value locked on Monad has climbed beyond $355 million, representing a 55%+ increase since early February 2026.

The MON token trades at approximately half its all-time high fully diluted valuation of $4.7 billion.

On-chain fee generation remains minimal at under $3,000 daily, creating concerns about organic network activity.

MON/USDT trading pair launched on OKX, while strategic alliances with NYSE and Securitize focus on tokenized asset infrastructure.

More than half of MON’s total token allocation stays locked until 2026 unlock schedules activate.

The Monad blockchain has achieved a significant milestone by accumulating over $355 million in total value locked, establishing itself as the quickest Layer 1 network to surpass $300 million TVL among recent launches. Following its mainnet deployment in November 2025, the platform reached this benchmark within approximately four months of operation.

[[IMG_2]]Source: DefiLlama

Since February 2026 began, the TVL metric has increased by more than 55%. Major DeFi platforms such as Uniswap, Curve, and Morpho have deployed on Monad’s infrastructure. Bridged assets account for $654.42 million according to current tracking data.

[[IMG_3]]Monad (MON) Price

However, this achievement comes with context: Monad represents less than 0.4% of the approximately $91 billion total value locked across all blockchain networks globally.

Minimal Fee Generation Sparks Debate

Daily fee revenue generated on Monad’s blockchain currently sits below the $3,000 threshold. This creates a scenario where $355 million in deposited capital operates on a network generating annual fees in the low six-figure range.

The resulting fee-to-TVL ratio positions Monad among the lowest performers in this metric compared to other chains with substantial value locked. Industry observers suggest that elevated TVL combined with minimal fee production often indicates capital attracted primarily by token rewards rather than authentic user engagement.

Notably, application-layer fee generation appears to exceed base-layer blockchain fees, indicating some legitimate ecosystem utilization beyond simple capital parking.

MON token’s current fully diluted valuation stands at $2.2 billion. This represents approximately a 50% decline from the $4.7 billion FDV peak achieved shortly after mainnet activation four months prior.

My analysis on $MON remains unchanged.

Still holding a bullish structure, still looking better than many other coins.

Still potentially going for the resistance level up there.https://t.co/HiNIC3iZPC pic.twitter.com/yS6IaaPa46

— Sjuul | AltCryptoGems (@AltCryptoGems) April 1, 2026

Sjuul, a cryptocurrency analyst associated with AltCryptoGems, shared commentary on X indicating his perspective on MON hasn’t shifted. He characterized the token’s technical structure as maintaining bullish characteristics with potential movement toward overhead resistance zones.

Exchange Listings and Upcoming Unlock Concerns

The OKX cryptocurrency exchange recently added MON/USDT as a trading option. According to the platform, this decision followed standard compliance procedures and risk evaluation protocols. The listing is designed to enhance liquidity access for MON token holders.

Strategic collaborations have been established between Monad, the New York Stock Exchange, and Securitize. These partnerships aim to develop round-the-clock tokenized securities infrastructure that creates interoperability between conventional financial systems and blockchain technology.

The network has secured additional infrastructure partnerships with AWS, Alchemy, and Messari. A euro-backed stablecoin adhering to the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulatory framework has been incorporated, positioning the platform for regulated European financial applications.

A significant risk factor persists: more than 50% of MON’s circulating supply remains subject to vesting schedules, with major unlock events programmed for 2026. Historical patterns from comparable projects demonstrate that large-scale token unlocks frequently generate downward price momentum.

The MON token maintains a $2.2 billion fully diluted valuation currently, marking a substantial decrease from the $4.7 billion FDV high registered immediately following mainnet launch.

The post Monad (MON) Token Down 50% Despite TVL Surge Past $355M – Can It Recover? appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Bithumb has officially pushed its IPO timeline beyond 2028, citing regulatory uncertainty and internal control preparations.

The exchange posted 651.3 billion won in sales and 78 billion won in net profit for the fiscal year 2025.

Bithumb’s switch to Kookmin Bank drove market share past 30% and attracted 1.74 million new subscribers in 2025.

A 36 billion won FIU fine and a Bitcoin mispayment incident raised shareholder concerns over internal compliance risks.

Bithumb has pushed its initial public offering timeline beyond 2028, confirming another delay at its 12th Annual General Meeting held in Seoul on March 31.

The South Korean crypto exchange had previously been expected to list in 2027. CFO Jung Sang-kyun cited ongoing work to strengthen accounting policies and internal controls as key reasons for the extended timeline. The company engaged Samjung KPMG as its IPO advisory partner at the end of last year.

Regulatory Environment and Internal Preparations Drive the Listing Delay

According to Maeil Business News Korea, Bithumb signed an IPO advisory agreement with Samjung KPMG with a preliminary 2027 deadline for preparatory work. However, officials clarified that the actual listing is now expected after 2028.

CFO Jung described the process as the industry’s first listing promotion, requiring thorough internal verification. He stated, “We are currently working on preliminary work to strengthen accounting policies and internal controls.”

South Korea’s Digital Asset Framework Act is also a major factor in the revised schedule. The legislation is expected to pass in the second half of the current year.

Bithumb is closely monitoring regulatory developments before committing to a firm listing date. A company official added, “The actual listing is likely to be after 2028, and we will work hard to prepare for the listing until 2027.”

That gives the exchange roughly two more years to align its internal controls with listing requirements. Officials said they plan to time the listing to maximize corporate value once conditions are favorable.

The delay reflects a cautious approach rather than a setback in business performance. Bithumb’s sales, operating profit, and net profit all improved considerably in 2025.

CEO Lee Jae-won was reappointed at the same shareholders’ meeting for a two-year term. He noted, “Last year was a year when we focused on improving brand awareness and upgrading transaction infrastructure despite increasing market volatility.”

The board also approved in-house director Hwang Seung-wook for another term alongside him. Shareholders additionally greenlit a proposal to raise the convertible bond issuance ceiling from 150 billion won to 300 billion won.

Strong 2025 Results Fail to Shield Bithumb from Shareholder and Compliance Pressure

Despite the IPO delay, Bithumb posted solid financial results for 2025. Sales reached approximately 651.3 billion won, while operating profit came in at around 163.5 billion won.

Net profit stood at roughly 78 billion won for the year. Total assets were recorded at approximately 3.3249 trillion won as of the end of 2025.

The exchange attributed part of its growth to switching its partner bank from NH Nonghyup Bank to Kookmin Bank. That transition improved public accessibility and pushed market share beyond the 30% mark.

New subscriber numbers reached 1.74 million during the same period. CEO Lee added, “We will continue to grow this year based on this stable business management.”

Shareholders raised concerns over dividend payments during the meeting, with one asking, “Competitor Dunamu pays dividends, but Bithumb has not heard from it after a single dividend in the past.”

CEO Lee responded directly to the concern, saying, “We will do our best to enhance shareholder value and actively discuss related issues such as dividends through the board of directors.”

He also noted that capital was redirected toward expanding market share and corporate value throughout 2025. The exchange attributed that decision to increasing market competition during the year.

Questions over a Bitcoin mispayment incident and a 36 billion won fine from the Financial Intelligence Unit also surfaced. Strategy Division head Lee Ju-hyun said, “We are considering whether to file an administrative lawsuit so that we can defend the company’s value through due process.”

On competition from the Dunamu and Naver Financial merger, CEO Lee stated, “We are actively considering business collaboration and M&A proposals with various companies to be competitive.”

He added that internal benchmarking is underway to diversify beyond the exchange’s current 97.69% commission income structure.

The post Bithumb Delays IPO Beyond 2028 as South Korea’s Crypto Giant Eyes Regulatory Clarity appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

Paul Grewal, Coinbase’s Chief Legal Officer, projects a resolution on the CLARITY Act’s stablecoin yield provision within two days

Central dispute centers on whether cryptocurrency platforms can provide interest on dormant stablecoin holdings

Traditional banking institutions worry about customer fund migration, though Grewal dismisses these concerns as unfounded

Senate Banking Committee expected to hold markup session following congressional recess this month

Prediction markets show 51% probability of presidential approval in 2026

A landmark cryptocurrency regulatory framework in the United States appears closer to completion, with Coinbase’s lead attorney projecting that negotiations over stablecoin interest payments could conclude by week’s end.

BULLISH: Coinbase CLO, Paul Grewal says CLARITY Act Progress in the next 48 hours

“I’m very confident we’re going to see progress.”

This is the unlock:

“Deciding which tokens… fall under the SEC… and which are better served by the CFTC.”

“We need to finish the job.”… pic.twitter.com/fT45vjw7ZI

— Mark (@markchadwickx) April 1, 2026

During a Fox Business appearance, Paul Grewal, who serves as Chief Legal Officer at Coinbase, revealed that discussions between cryptocurrency companies and traditional financial institutions have advanced significantly, with both parties approaching consensus.

The CLARITY Act represents comprehensive legislation designed to establish regulatory parameters for digital asset businesses operating in America. A critical component would delineate which digital tokens belong under Securities and Exchange Commission jurisdiction versus Commodity Futures Trading Commission authority.

However, progress has stalled over disagreements regarding stablecoin interest payments. The central question: should digital currency exchanges have permission to compensate users for maintaining stablecoin deposits on their platforms?

Traditional banks oppose this feature. Financial industry lobbyists have campaigned against the provision, contending that cryptocurrency companies must adhere to identical regulations governing conventional banking. They additionally warn that offering stablecoin yields could incentivize mass withdrawals from traditional deposit accounts.

Grewal contested these assertions. He emphasized that empirical evidence supporting the claim that stablecoin interest causes bank deposit erosion simply doesn’t exist, characterizing it as speculative fearmongering unsupported by actual market data.

Understanding the CLARITY Act’s Impact

Grewal characterized the CLARITY Act as the most consequential cryptocurrency legislation currently under consideration. He noted it advances the groundwork established by last year’s GENIUS Act passage, which he described as a transformative milestone for the sector.

The legislation would establish comprehensive market infrastructure for cryptocurrency throughout the United States. It would additionally define classification standards for various token types under federal regulatory frameworks.

Coinbase Chief Executive Brian Armstrong has publicly criticized legislative versions that would prohibit stablecoin interest features. He maintains that implementing such restrictions would disadvantage retail users and stifle technological advancement.

Senate leadership has decided against publishing the most recent draft language this week. A representative for Senator Thom Tillis explained that premature disclosure could enable legislative adversaries to deploy delaying tactics.

Negotiations between cryptocurrency advocates and banking sector representatives have persisted through recent days. Previously, both constituencies had rejected an earlier compromise framework negotiated by Senators Tillis and Angela Alsobrooks.

Coinbase (COIN) Stock Performance and Industry Perspective

Shares of Coinbase have declined approximately 50% during the preceding six-month period, settling at $172.99 on Wednesday with a 0.9% intraday decrease. The equity trades on the Nasdaq exchange.

Grewal emphasized that Coinbase prioritizes building durable infrastructure over chasing immediate transaction volume. He highlighted the organization’s overarching mission to transform financial system accessibility for ordinary American citizens.

Data from Polymarket indicates a 51% probability that presidential approval of the CLARITY Act occurs during 2026.

The Senate Banking Committee’s formal markup session is anticipated to proceed this month once legislators reconvene following their scheduled recess.

The post Coinbase (COIN) Chief Legal Officer Signals Imminent Breakthrough on Crypto Legislation appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

DOGE price action remains constrained under the declining 50-day EMA near $0.0900

Futures market data reveals negative funding rates and higher short position concentration

Critical support level at $0.0879 must hold — breakdown risks pushing price toward $0.0800

Upside breakout requires clearing $0.0930 barrier to unlock path toward $0.10

Daily chart Bollinger Band compression indicates significant volatility approaching

Dogecoin currently trades around $0.0926, registering a 2.28% gain over the last 24 hours, though resistance near $0.0930 continues to cap upward momentum. The popular meme cryptocurrency finds itself trapped between tentative bullish attempts and ongoing downward pressure, creating a tight consolidation zone that has traders on high alert.

Dogecoin (DOGE) Price

The token touched intraday lows at $0.0890 before buyers emerged to defend that level. Following the bounce, DOGE advanced through $0.0905, $0.0912, and $0.0920 in consecutive stages. This rally carried price above the 50% Fibonacci retracement of the recent decline from $0.0937 down to $0.0893.

Hourly chart analysis reveals a developing bearish trend line with resistance concentrated around $0.0928. The 76.4% Fibonacci level converges near this identical zone, creating a formidable technical obstacle. Sellers have successfully protected this ceiling multiple times.

Price action maintains a position above both $0.0912 and the 100-hour simple moving average. While this technical positioning suggests a mildly constructive short-term outlook, the margin remains narrow and vulnerable to reversal.

Futures Market Signals Bearish Positioning

Derivatives metrics for Dogecoin indicate prevailing negative sentiment. Data from CoinGlass shows DOGE futures Open Interest currently at $1.05 billion, representing a 0.81% decline over 24 hours. Liquidation events totaled $4.55 million during this timeframe, with long positions accounting for $3.48 million of that figure.

The long-to-short ratio for active DOGE contracts stands at 0.967, indicating short positions outnumber longs among active traders. Funding rates have fallen into negative territory at -0.0097%, demonstrating that short sellers are paying to maintain their bearish bets.

Bollinger Bands are squeezing on Dogecoin $DOGE daily chart, suggesting a major price move could be coming soon. pic.twitter.com/AO6dfMzKkE

— Ali Charts (@alicharts) April 1, 2026

Market analyst Ali Charts highlighted on X that Bollinger Bands are experiencing compression on Dogecoin’s daily timeframe. The analyst indicated this technical setup typically precedes substantial price movement, although the directional bias remains uncertain.

Critical Price Zones Under Scrutiny

For bulls to gain control, DOGE must decisively breach the $0.0928–$0.0930 resistance cluster to establish a pathway toward $0.0950, followed by $0.0980. Successfully clearing $0.0980 would place the psychologically significant $0.10 mark within reach, with $0.1020 representing the subsequent upside objective.

$DOGE is gathering energy at the bottom of the rising channel.

It is still located at the starting line, and a rally will begin soon. pic.twitter.com/gCoo4yLn7T

— CW (@CW8900) April 1, 2026

The 50-day exponential moving average at $0.0974 and 100-day EMA at $0.1107 present additional overhead resistance barriers.

Regarding downside risk, immediate support emerges at $0.0915. Breaking beneath that level brings $0.0900 into play as a crucial psychological threshold. Should DOGE close below $0.0879 on a daily basis—matching the February 11 low—the door opens for further decline toward $0.0800, with $0.0741 as an extended target.

The hourly Relative Strength Index maintains positioning above the 50 neutral level, while the MACD indicator remains in positive territory despite showing signs of weakening momentum. On the daily timeframe, RSI readings hover near 43, positioned below the midpoint and reflecting modest bearish undertones.

Current market structure shows DOGE maintaining its position above near-term support at $0.0912, while the $0.0930 resistance zone stands as the primary challenge bulls must overcome in the upcoming trading sessions.

The post Dogecoin (DOGE) Price Analysis: Bollinger Band Compression Signals Imminent Breakout appeared first on Blockonomi.