Blockonomi

Key Highlights
On August 5, a SpaceX Falcon 9 second stage collided with the lunar surface, forming a crater measuring 60 feet across and 10 feet in depth
The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter from NASA captured high-resolution photographs from 60 miles above the impact zone
The rocket stage had been in uncontrolled orbit for more than 12 months following its January 15 launch
According to SpaceX, executing a controlled reentry was not feasible given the energy requirements of lunar operations
Trading at $142.23, SpaceX shares declined 0.8% on Wednesday as market attention turns to share lockup expiration and upcoming Starship testing
On August 5, the second stage of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket slammed into the moon, carving out a crater approximately equivalent in size to two full-length buses placed side by side. NASA has just published the most detailed photographs of the collision site to date.
SpaceX punched a permanent hole in the Moon, and NASA just dropped the photos.
A discarded SpaceX Falcon 9 stage slammed into the surface two weeks ago at over 5,000 mph… and left a perfect 60-foot scar.
Elon is out here casually carving his name into another world now.… pic.twitter.com/dpKZYFh1p3
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 19, 2026
NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter captured these photographs while traveling at approximately one mile per second, maintaining an altitude of roughly 60 miles above the moon. The spacecraft’s camera was deliberately angled toward the impact site during each orbital pass to obtain optimal imagery.
Based on scientific analysis, the crater measures approximately 18 metres in diameter with a depth of less than three metres. The collision unleashed energy comparable to detonating three tonnes of dynamite.
What Caused the Lunar Collision?
Launched on January 15 with lunar landers aboard, the Falcon 9 second stage could not be safely deorbited following mission completion. The energy demands of lunar missions far exceed those of standard orbital launches, making controlled reentry unfeasible.
Spotted: Falcon 9 impact site
NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) has captured images of a new crater on the Moon. The crater formed on Aug. 5, 2026, when a SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage impacted the lunar surface. https://t.co/aqduBYwpmg pic.twitter.com/hE83yvzmIk
— NASA Solar System (@NASASolarSystem) August 18, 2026
“Our standard procedure involves planning a controlled deorbit of the Falcon second stage to ensure safe ocean reentry,” SpaceX explained in an X platform statement. However, gravitational forces and solar activity gradually pulled the rocket toward the moon during its extended drift period exceeding one year.
SpaceX emphasized its commitment to “actively work to be as responsible as possible with hardware left in space.”
Orbital Congestion Concerns Mount
This incident has drawn renewed attention to increasing orbital traffic. SpaceX currently operates over 10,000 Starlink satellites, providing broadband service to more than 12 million customers worldwide.
Amazon and China’s Qianfan network both have plans to deploy thousands of additional satellites. The growing satellite population increases debris risks, prompting serious discussions about sustainable space traffic control.
Proposed solutions under consideration include enhanced debris monitoring systems, active removal technologies, and engineering satellites with controlled end-of-life disposal capabilities.
SpaceX’s upcoming Starship vehicle features complete reusability. With both booster and upper stage designed for Earth return, future operations should eliminate uncontrolled hardware drift scenarios.
The fourteenth Starship test mission is scheduled for later this month, with market analysts monitoring developments closely.
Market Performance and Share Price
The lunar impact did not trigger any immediate market reaction for SpaceX shares. Following its June public offering at $135 per share, the stock had been trading slightly above $143 before Wednesday’s modest decline to $142.23.
Approximately 319 million shares held by early-stage investors will become tradable on August 20. This impending lockup expiration had previously created downward pressure on the stock price before a rebound driven by strong second-quarter financial results.
Broader market indices showed positive movement Wednesday, with the S&P 500 gaining 0.4% and the Dow Jones Industrial Average advancing 0.2%.
The post NASA Shares Images of Moon Crater Created by SpaceX Falcon 9 Impact appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Points
Tehran is evaluating potential attacks on American military installations across Europe should Trump administration intensify hostilities
Bulgarian and Cypriot territories housing US assets have been identified as possible strike locations, notably the Bezmer facility
Iranian military planners have explored targeting underwater communication infrastructure in the Strait of Hormuz
Diplomatic efforts to reopen the critical waterway have collapsed, with Trump confirming no discussions are planned
Defense analysts characterize the European threat as “genuine but constrained” given missile range limitations and precision challenges
Tehran is contemplating military action against American installations in Europe should President Donald Trump intensify the ongoing conflict, according to two sources with knowledge of regime deliberations who briefed the Financial Times.
BREAKING: Iran has weighed attacking US Military targets in Europe should President Trump escalate the war, per FT.
Details include:
1. Iranian forces have reportedly assessed striking US assets in south-eastern European countries such as Bulgaria
2. Cyprus, where a British…
— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) August 19, 2026
The sources revealed that Iranian military strategists have conducted assessments of striking American assets positioned in southeastern Europe, with particular focus on Bulgaria, where authorities recently authorized the Bezmer airbase for American aircraft refueling operations.
Cyprus has also emerged as a prospective target. Earlier this year in March, a British military facility on the island was hit by an unmanned aerial vehicle, which Western intelligence officials attributed to an Iranian drone operated through proxy forces.
Critical Waterway Standoff
Iranian military planners have additionally evaluated striking underwater fiber-optic communication infrastructure within the Strait of Hormuz should hostilities continue to intensify.
Iran is considering attacks on US military assets in Bulgaria and Cyprus if Washington escalates.
Tehran has also examined targeting subsea fibre-optic cables in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials increasingly view renewed conflict as inevitable and warn that attacks… pic.twitter.com/N5aWcFq6bG
— Europa.com (@europa) August 19, 2026
Diplomatic initiatives aimed at reopening the strategically vital strait have reached an impasse. Trump declared on Tuesday that there are “no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled” with Iranian authorities.
A June diplomatic arrangement between Washington and Tehran disintegrated last month following Iranian attacks on maritime vessels transiting the strait. Each nation accused the other of breaching the agreement, triggering reciprocal military strikes and Washington’s reimposition of a blockade on Iranian ports.
Trump has publicly threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure—including bridges or power facilities—each time Iran strikes a vessel in the waterway.
Tehran’s Public Stance
One regime source stated Iran would impose “no limits” on its retaliation if Washington adopts aggressive measures. “Should the US go too far, Iran will defend itself at any price, go beyond the region and hit Europe too,” the source declared.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has previously issued warnings that any military installation utilized for attacks against Iranian territory would be designated a legitimate target. That statement was specifically aimed at the United Kingdom regarding American operations from British military facilities.
Iran has demonstrated its capability to strike remote targets. Earlier this year, Tehran launched numerous missiles toward Diego Garcia, a joint American-British military installation in the Indian Ocean approximately 4,000km distant. None successfully reached their intended destination.
Turkey announced in March that NATO’s defensive systems successfully intercepted several ballistic projectiles launched from Iranian territory.
Sidharth Kaushal, a research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, characterized the European threat as “real, but limited.” Iran possesses medium-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching American assets in southeastern Europe, though precision and destructive capacity diminish at extended ranges.
Douglas Barrie at the International Institute for Strategic Studies acknowledged Iran possesses weaponry with ranges exceeding 2,000km, while emphasizing the substantial risk of technical failure or interception.
Iran’s supreme leader recently appointed hardliners to critical security and military leadership positions. Mohsen Rezaei, a former Guards commander, was named as the nation’s chief security official, a decision analysts interpret as signaling a departure from diplomatic engagement.
Significant elements within the Iranian regime have concluded that Washington cannot be relied upon to uphold agreements, and that Iran must increase the consequences of military action to compel American compliance with its commitments.
The post Tehran Mulls Targeting American Military Facilities in Europe Amid Escalating Trump Tensions appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Micron shares declined an additional 1.1% Wednesday following a steep 7% retreat in the previous session amid rising bond yield concerns
Top five NAND flash memory brands collectively generated $68.87 billion in revenue during Q2, representing a 77% sequential increase
Micron captured 15.1% of the NAND flash market by revenue in Q2, climbing from 13.9% and securing third position ahead of Kioxia
Ark Invest’s Cathie Wood identified high-bandwidth memory as the “most cyclical” and “most commoditized” segment within the semiconductor ecosystem
Wall Street projects Micron will deliver earnings of $31.27 per share in its upcoming report versus $3.03 last year, maintaining a consensus Buy rating with a $1,537.50 average target
Shares of Micron Technology (MU) retreated 1.1% during early Wednesday trading sessions, hovering near $947, after experiencing a 7% decline the day prior. The semiconductor sector faced widespread pressure as climbing bond yields triggered apprehension regarding AI infrastructure investments.
This consecutive two-day downturn occurred even as fresh market intelligence revealed Micron’s expanding footprint within the memory semiconductor industry.
Market research firm Trendforce disclosed Wednesday that the five leading publicly traded NAND flash memory manufacturers collectively achieved a 77% quarter-over-quarter revenue surge in Q2, totaling $68.87 billion.
Micron’s portion of this expanding market increased as well. The company’s NAND flash revenue market share advanced to 15.1% during Q2, rising from 13.9% in the preceding quarter, allowing it to surpass Japan-based Kioxia and claim third position, trailing only Samsung and SK Hynix.
According to Trendforce’s analysis, Micron generated $11.85 billion in NAND flash revenue throughout the quarter, representing a substantial 99.2% sequential increase—the strongest growth rate among the top five competitors.
NAND flash technology contributes approximately one-quarter of Micron’s overall revenue stream. The remainder comes from DRAM and high-bandwidth memory products.
Cathie Wood Expresses Skepticism
The optimistic memory market outlook isn’t universally shared. Ark Invest CEO Cathie Wood revealed she’s avoiding memory-focused AI semiconductor investments, characterizing high-bandwidth memory as the “most cyclical” and “most commoditized” component within the chip supply chain.
Wood contended that exceptionally elevated memory pricing could incentivize the industry to develop alternative solutions that bypass the constraint altogether. Her investment preference leans toward Cerebras Systems (CBRS) and Groq, companies she noted don’t depend on high-bandwidth memory technology.
Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra countered this perspective last June, describing memory as a “strategic asset” within the artificial intelligence landscape. The company has also secured 16 extended customer commitments representing approximately $100 billion in aggregate revenue extending through 2030.
Wall Street Expectations
Micron’s forthcoming earnings announcement is anticipated around September 22, 2026. Analyst consensus forecasts earnings of $31.27 per share, a dramatic increase from $3.03 reported in the comparable period last year. Revenue projections stand at $50.81 billion, climbing from $11.31 billion.
The equity maintains a consensus Buy recommendation, with analysts establishing an average price objective of $1,537.50.
Citigroup reaffirmed its Buy stance on August 7 while reducing its price target to $1,150. KeyBanc sustained its Overweight rating and elevated its target to $1,750 during July. Cantor Fitzgerald increased its projection to $2,000 in June.
From a technical perspective, MU currently trades approximately 5.6% above its 20-day moving average of $895.86 while positioning 1.7% beneath its 50-day moving average of $962.57. The relative strength index registers at 52.61, indicating neutral trading momentum.
Market participants are monitoring $1,012 as the immediate resistance threshold, with $891.50 representing potential support near the 20-day moving average.
The post Micron (MU) Stock Retreats Despite Strong NAND Flash Market Share Gains appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Amazon’s Prime Air drone service will extend to approximately 500 U.S. cities and towns before 2027.
Customers can receive packages in under 30 minutes, including groceries, electronics, prescriptions and home essentials.
The service currently operates across 11 metropolitan regions, including Phoenix, Detroit, Houston, Dallas and San Antonio.
Upcoming markets include Chicago, Atlanta, Cleveland, Syracuse and Boise.
This aggressive push intensifies rivalry with Walmart, which is expanding its drone operations via Alphabet’s Wing partnership.
In a bold move to revolutionize last-mile logistics, Amazon is preparing to extend its Prime Air drone delivery platform to approximately 500 cities and towns across the United States by late 2026, representing a dramatic increase from its current footprint of 11 metropolitan areas.
BREAKING: Amazon's drone delivery network is about to get a whole lot bigger.
Prime Air plans to expand to nearly 500 cities and towns by the end of this year. That means many more customers across the country will be able to get items delivered by drone in as fast as 30… https://t.co/5WFDyDK4We
— Amazon (@amazon) August 19, 2026
Shares of Amazon (AMZN) climbed 0.41% following the announcement.
The drone-based delivery platform guarantees shipments arriving in under 30 minutes. Products available through the aerial service include fresh groceries, consumer electronics, prescription medications and essential household goods.
David Carbon, who leads Amazon Prime Air as vice president, revealed that the company has successfully completed hundreds of thousands of drone deliveries throughout this year alone.
“Our goal is to reach customers in nearly 500 cities and towns by the end of 2026,” Carbon explained. “We’re combining the convenience of ultra-fast aerial delivery with Amazon’s signature competitive pricing and product variety.”
At present, Prime Air operates in suburban communities surrounding Tolleson, Arizona; Ruskin, Florida; Kansas City, Kansas; Papillion, Nebraska; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Hazel Park and Pontiac, Michigan; and Richmond, San Antonio, Richardson and Waco, Texas. Each operational zone encompasses approximately 175 square miles.
Major metropolitan markets scheduled for imminent activation include Chicago, Atlanta, Cleveland, Syracuse and Boise.
Retail Giants Clash in Aerial Delivery Battle
Amazon’s ambitious expansion strategy creates intensified competition with Walmart, America’s dominant brick-and-mortar retailer. Walmart announced plans earlier this year to introduce drone delivery capabilities at 150 additional store locations through its collaboration with Wing, a subsidiary of Alphabet.
Both retail powerhouses are deploying hybrid delivery systems combining aerial drones with traditional ground-based transportation to accelerate fulfillment speeds. However, reducing the per-unit cost of drone deliveries to match conventional vehicle-based methods continues to present significant economic obstacles for both companies.
DoorDash has entered the competitive landscape as well. The delivery platform obtained crucial FAA authorization for commercial drone operations in July and is simultaneously developing proprietary drone technology alongside the necessary ground-based infrastructure for coordinating aerial pickups and deliveries.
Most recently, Uber revealed a strategic alliance with Zipline focused on drone delivery services, aiming to accelerate delivery windows for restaurant meals, groceries and retail merchandise.
Industry Obstacles Remain Unresolved
The broader drone delivery sector continues navigating significant headwinds. Regulatory complexities, safety protocols, privacy considerations and adverse weather conditions have confined the technology to limited geographic markets with inconsistent implementation.
Acoustic disturbances represent a frequent grievance among residents in drone-serviced neighborhoods. Zipline, a drone delivery startup, has mitigated this concern by engineering systems that operate at elevated altitudes while lowering packages via extended tethers.
Amazon’s expansion represents the industry’s most ambitious scaling initiative to date, seeking to transform drone delivery from a specialized novelty into a standard fulfillment option accessible to millions of American consumers before year’s end.
The post Amazon (AMZN) Stock Climbs as Drone Delivery Expansion Targets 500 Cities by 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Nebius Group revealed plans for a $4.5 billion private placement of convertible senior notes
Shares of NBIS declined more than 8% during premarket hours after the disclosure
The debt issuance includes two tranches: $2.75B maturing in 2030 and $1.75B maturing in 2034
Funds raised will support data center expansion, AI cloud infrastructure, and graphics processing unit purchases
Nebius will also swap portions of existing 2029 and 2031 notes for Class A ordinary shares
Shares of Nebius Group (NBIS) tumbled over 8% during Wednesday’s premarket session following the company’s disclosure of a $4.5 billion convertible senior notes offering.
The capital raise will be structured across two separate tranches. The company plans to issue $2.75 billion in notes maturing on February 15, 2030, alongside $1.75 billion in notes coming due on February 15, 2034.
The entire offering will be conducted via private placement exclusively to qualified institutional buyers.
Nebius is providing initial buyers with an over-allotment option to purchase additional securities. This greenshoe provision encompasses up to $375 million for the 2030 tranche and up to $300 million for the 2034 tranche, with the option exercisable during the initial 13-day period following issuance.
Should the over-allotment options be fully exercised, the aggregate fundraise could exceed $5.1 billion.
Allocation of Capital Raised
According to the company’s statement, the capital will finance ongoing business expansion initiatives. This encompasses the construction and enhancement of data center facilities, advancement of its comprehensive AI cloud platform, and acquisition of critical hardware components such as GPUs.
Any surplus capital will be allocated toward general corporate needs.
Debt-for-Equity Exchange Initiative
In conjunction with the fresh debt offering, Nebius intends to negotiate exchange agreements with select holders of existing convertible debt. These include holders of the company’s 2.00% Convertible Senior Notes maturing in 2029 and 3.00% Convertible Senior Notes maturing in 2031.
Through these arrangements, certain portions of outstanding notes will be exchanged for Nebius Class A ordinary shares, each carrying a par value of €0.01.
This maneuver essentially transforms a portion of corporate debt into equity ownership, which has the potential to dilute current shareholders’ positions.
The combination of potential dilution and the substantial size of the new debt offering appears to be driving the significant premarket decline in NBIS shares.
Initially, the stock had fallen over 6% immediately following the announcement, with losses deepening to surpass 8% as premarket activity progressed.
Both the 2030 and 2034 note series will reach maturity on February 15 of their designated years, when the principal amount along with any accrued interest will be due for repayment.
The post Nebius (NBIS) Shares Drop 8% Following $4.5 Billion Convertible Debt Announcement appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Marvell Technology shares soared more than 12% in early trading following disclosure of a broadened chip collaboration with Google.
Google obtained warrant rights to acquire as many as 58.97 million Marvell shares at a strike price of $206.58, potentially valued at $12.2 billion.
The agreement encompasses AI inference accelerators, storage controllers, network interface controllers, and memory interface controllers for Google’s TPU platform.
Warrant exercise is contingent on Google achieving $500 million revenue milestones per tranche through fiscal year 2033.
Broadcom (AVGO), another Google custom chip supplier, declined more than 3% following the announcement.
Shares of Marvell Technology (MRVL) climbed over 12% during premarket hours Wednesday after revealing an enhanced collaboration with Google focused on designing custom artificial intelligence semiconductors.
The agreement was executed on July 29, with warrant issuance occurring on August 18. Google secured options to acquire up to 58.97 million shares at a per-share price of $206.58.
Should Google exercise the complete warrant allocation, the investment would total approximately $12.2 billion. This would position Alphabet as the fifth-largest shareholder in Marvell, based on LSEG records.
The arrangement differs from a conventional acquisition. The majority of warrant shares become available only when Google achieves specified procurement milestones with Marvell extending through fiscal 2033.
Under the terms, each tranche unlocks following $500 million in custom component revenue generated between Google and Marvell. This structure directly correlates Google’s ownership percentage with its purchasing volume.
Approximately 1.36 million warrant shares become available through equal quarterly distributions during year one. Remaining shares follow the revenue-based vesting framework.
Scope of the Partnership
The enhanced collaboration covers an extensive portfolio of semiconductors engineered for integration with Google’s TPU infrastructure. This encompasses AI inference accelerators, storage controllers, network interface controllers, memory interface controllers, and near-memory computing solutions.
Google’s tensor processing units serve as the backbone of its AI computing infrastructure. Interest in custom processors like TPUs has intensified as organizations seek alternatives to Nvidia’s GPUs, especially for AI inference applications.
This agreement positions Marvell as a significant contributor within that ecosystem, complementing Google’s existing arrangement with Broadcom.
Broadcom Shares Decline
Broadcom (AVGO) fell over 3% in premarket activity following the disclosure. Broadcom maintains a multi-year contract with Google for custom AI chip development and production extending through 2031.
While the Marvell partnership doesn’t supersede Broadcom’s existing contract, it demonstrates Google’s strategy to diversify its custom silicon supplier network.
Google’s shares showed minimal movement in premarket trading after the announcement.
This development arrives amid accelerating AI infrastructure investments by major technology companies. Earlier this year, leading tech firms projected combined AI infrastructure expenditures surpassing $700 billion for 2026, representing a substantial increase from approximately $400 billion in 2025.
Marvell now enters more direct competition with Broadcom for a portion of those capital allocations. The warrant mechanism ensures Google’s equity position expands proportionally with its procurement from Marvell.
The collaboration details were revealed through an SEC filing dated August 19, 2026.
The post Marvell (MRVL) Stock Soars 12% on Massive Google AI Chip Partnership appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Eagle Point Credit Management has closed a $1.3 billion private credit facility for a Texas-based AI data center featuring Anthropic as anchor tenant
This financing represents a component of an extensive $16 billion project-finance arrangement for Nexus Data Centers
The development spans 2,900 acres in Hubbard, Texas, positioned approximately 70 miles south of Dallas
Google has provided a guarantee for the senior debt component, streamlining the financing process
Morgan Stanley heads the comprehensive financing syndicate along with additional financial institutions
Eagle Point Credit Management has finalized a $1.3 billion private credit facility supporting an artificial intelligence data center in Hubbard, Texas. Nexus Data Centers is spearheading the development, with Anthropic secured as the facility’s anchor tenant.
JUST IN: Banks are in talks to lend $15 billion to build an Anthropic AI data center in Texas, backed by financial guarantees from Google.
A consortium led by Morgan Stanley would finance a 1.6-gigawatt campus in Hubbard, Texas, complete with its own natural gas power plant.… pic.twitter.com/evxIcO9gc9
— CryptoTweets (@CryptoTweets) July 30, 2026
This substantial loan forms one piece of a significantly larger $16 billion project-finance arrangement. Nexus intends to deploy these funds toward completing a sprawling 2,900-acre complex that will feature a dedicated gas-fired power generation facility.
Eagle Point holds the position of largest individual investor in this loan arrangement. The debt has been organized as mezzanine financing, positioning it beneath the more secure senior tranches within the overall capital structure.
Based in Greenwich, Connecticut, the investment firm was established in 2012 by Thomas Majewski alongside Stone Point Capital. The company currently oversees approximately $14 billion in assets under management.
Eagle Point initially commenced discussions regarding financing for Nexus during September 2025. During that early phase, the firm was evaluating approximately $150 million in senior secured debt backed by property Nexus had purchased in Hubbard.
Evolution of the Financing Structure
Throughout subsequent months, both the scale and complexity of the financing arrangement expanded on multiple occasions. The mezzanine component of the transaction reached financial close recently, based on a statement reviewed by Bloomberg.
The transaction gained momentum following two critical developments. Anthropic emerged victorious from a competitive selection process to secure primary tenant status, while Google committed to guaranteeing the senior debt obligations.
Google has provided debt payment guarantees for multiple data center facilities throughout the United States. Such guarantees typically encourage investors to commit substantial capital, although this approach also creates concentrated financial exposure.
Morgan Stanley serves as the lead arranger for the broader bank-syndicated financing package. Earlier during August, industry reports suggested a banking consortium was positioning to distribute approximately $15 billion in debt associated with this Google-backed facility.
Future Outlook
The Hubbard development represents Nexus’s inaugural construction project. It will rank among the most substantial data center complexes under construction nationwide to accommodate escalating demand from artificial intelligence enterprises.
Data center developers commonly retire construction financing by issuing replacement debt following project completion. One potential scenario involves Nexus pursuing high-yield bond issuance later during the current year to refinance the bank-led financing component.
Such a refinancing approach would necessitate Nexus securing a credit rating from recognized agencies. No official timeline has been publicly disclosed to date.
Anthropic’s annualized revenue has surpassed $65 billion as the company contemplates a potential initial public offering. The artificial intelligence company did not provide responses to comment requests submitted outside standard business hours.
A spokesperson for Nexus similarly declined to provide commentary. Eagle Point has refrained from issuing public statements beyond confirming the deal’s successful closing.
The post Eagle Point Credit Delivers $1.3B Financing for Texas AI Data Center Linked to Anthropic appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Hidden code in TikTok’s U.S. iPhone application shows work on peer-to-peer payment capabilities within DMs
Developers discovered the feature embedded in the app, though it hasn’t entered testing phases
The payment system would utilize TikTok Pay infrastructure, currently operational across Southeast Asian markets
Stock prices for PayPal and Western Union declined following the revelation
ByteDance, TikTok’s owner, has pursued fintech expansion initiatives dating back to 2021
TikTok has begun development on functionality enabling users to transfer funds directly through the platform’s messaging system. Bloomberg reported this discovery after examining code embedded within the current version of TikTok’s iPhone application available to U.S. users, rather than through any official company announcement.
JUST IN: TikTok is exploring a P2P payments feature with in-message transfers, notes, and status alerts, currently in early development and not tested in any market. $BTC, $ETH (note: no guarantees on launch) pic.twitter.com/rUshwY5O2s
— Bpay News (@bpaynews) August 19, 2026
This payment capability would operate using TikTok Pay infrastructure, a system already functioning across Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand. In those markets, the service facilitates purchases through TikTok Shop and handles various in-platform financial transactions.
A company representative acknowledged that no testing of this feature has commenced in any region, indicating the project remains in preliminary development stages.
Should TikTok proceed with deployment, the functionality would enable monetary exchanges between users within their message threads. Those receiving funds would need to accept the transfer before a designated deadline, while senders would receive confirmation through push notifications or their message center.
Analysis of the application code reveals users could attach text messages alongside their payments. This design mirrors PayPal’s Venmo platform, which permits users to annotate their financial transactions with custom messages.
Market Response From PayPal and Western Union
PayPal and Western Union experienced significant stock price declines Tuesday following Bloomberg’s publication. The market reaction signals investor apprehension about potential competition from TikTok in the money transfer sector.
With approximately 2 billion users engaging with the platform each month worldwide, TikTok possesses substantial reach should it expand into U.S. financial services.
ByteDance, headquartered in Beijing and serving as TikTok’s parent organization, launched its payment ventures in 2021 through Douyin Pay within China. This system allows users to connect banking institutions, complete transactions, and provide gratuities during live broadcasts.
With a valuation exceeding $550 billion, ByteDance continues recruiting for financial technology positions across U.S. and international markets. The corporation projects revenue growth reaching approximately $186 billion, representing an increase from 2024’s $155 billion.
Social Media Platforms Increasingly Target Payment Services
Elon Musk’s X, the platform previously known as Twitter, has similarly pursued financial service development. Select content creators on X have already experimented with X Money, a person-to-person payment system that Musk announced would become publicly available in April.
ByteDance might decide against bringing the peer-to-peer payment feature to American markets. However, the engineering development evident in the application code demonstrates serious consideration of this capability.
TikTok Pay remains confined to Southeast Asian territories without availability for U.S. consumers. Any American rollout would encounter regulatory scrutiny considering ByteDance’s Chinese connections.
This code discovery reinforces TikTok’s established trajectory of expansion beyond video content into e-commerce and financial technology, sectors receiving sustained investment over recent years.
The post TikTok Building Venmo-Style Payment System in DMs, Code Reveals appeared first on Blockonomi.

Quick Summary
Shares of TJX declined approximately 3-4% during premarket hours following disappointing Q3 earnings outlook
Second quarter earnings per share reached $1.22, surpassing the $1.19 Wall Street consensus; total revenue hit $15.2 billion
Third quarter adjusted EPS forecast of $1.30-$1.32 came in below analyst expectations of $1.35
Annual EPS projection increased to $5.31-$5.36 range, up from previous guidance of $5.08-$5.15
Company secured $331 million in tariff reimbursements and announced plans to boost long-term store count to 7,500 units
Shares of TJX Companies experienced a decline of approximately 3% during Wednesday’s premarket session following the discount retailer’s release of fiscal 2027 second quarter results that exceeded earnings expectations while providing underwhelming forward guidance.
The company’s second quarter adjusted earnings per share registered at $1.22, topping the analyst consensus forecast of $1.19. Total revenue landed at $15.18 billion, virtually matching Wall Street’s anticipated $15.19 billion. Comparable store sales advanced 4% during the period.
The selloff was triggered by third quarter projections. Management indicated it anticipates adjusted diluted earnings per share between $1.30 and $1.32 for the upcoming quarter. Wall Street analysts had been modeling approximately $1.35. This shortfall proved sufficient to pressure shares downward.
$TJX Q2’27 EARNINGS HIGHLIGHTS
Revenue: $15.2B (Est. $15.16B) ; +5% YoY
Adj. EPS: $1.22 (Est. $1.19) ; +11% YoY
Comparable Sales: 4%
Adjusted Pretax Margin: 11.9%; +0.5 pts YoY
FY27 Guide:
Adj. EPS: $5.15-$5.20
Pretax Margin: 12.3% to 12.4%
Adjusted…
— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) August 19, 2026
Notwithstanding the third quarter guidance miss, the company elevated its fiscal 2027 full-year EPS projection to a range of $5.31-$5.36, representing an increase from the previous $5.08-$5.15 guidance. Annual pretax profit margin expectations were similarly upgraded, climbing to 12.3%-12.4% from the earlier 11.9%-12% range.
One-Time Tariff Reimbursements Lifted Results
The second quarter performance received significant support from a non-recurring benefit: the company collected $331 million in tariff reimbursements for duties previously paid under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Excluding this windfall, the adjusted pretax profit margin stood at 11.9%, representing a year-over-year expansion of 0.5 percentage points.
Quarterly net income totaled $1.52 billion, translating to $1.36 per diluted share. This compares favorably to $1.24 billion, or $1.10 per share, reported during the corresponding period last year.
Chief Executive Ernie Herrman highlighted that the Marmaxx segment, encompassing T.J. Maxx and Marshalls chains, delivered comparable sales growth of merely 1%. In contrast, HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International divisions each achieved gains ranging from 6% to 7%.
“The third quarter is off to a strong start, and we are seeing improvement at our Marmaxx division to start the quarter,” Herrman said.
Store Growth Initiatives Accelerate
During the second quarter, TJX distributed $1.3 billion to shareholders via share repurchases and dividend payments. Management continues to target $2.75 billion to $3.0 billion in total buybacks across the complete fiscal year.
Regarding expansion strategy, the company revealed intentions to accelerate its new store opening pace to 4% per year beginning in fiscal 2028. Additionally, TJX elevated its long-term worldwide store count objective to 7,500 locations, representing an addition of 500 units above the prior target.
The broader equity market provided no support for TJX shares on Wednesday. The S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq Composite were all posting modest gains, indicating the decline was entirely company-specific.
Within the off-price retail sector, Wall Street analysts have increasingly favored Ross Stores and Burlington Stores as preferred investment choices, which may influence how market participants respond to any additional TJX weakness.
The company reaffirmed its fiscal 2027 comparable store sales growth projection of 3% to 4% for the full year.
The post TJX Companies (TJX) Stock Slides Despite Q2 Beat on Weaker Q3 Forecast appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
The INTerpath-001 Phase 3 study successfully achieved its primary recurrence-free survival goal in high-risk melanoma patients treated by Merck and Moderna
A total of 1,137 patients with Stage IIB-IV melanoma participated in this landmark study, representing the first successful large-scale Phase 3 trial for mRNA cancer immunotherapy
Shares of MRK reached $143.52 during premarket hours, representing approximately 10% gains and establishing a new yearly peak
Moderna’s stock price skyrocketed more than 90% in early trading, reaching $118.61 per share
Financial analysts from Barclays project the treatment could achieve approximately $3 billion in melanoma-related revenue by 2035
Shares of Merck experienced a remarkable surge of approximately 10% during Wednesday’s premarket session following the pharmaceutical company’s announcement alongside Moderna regarding a significant breakthrough in their collaborative personalized mRNA cancer immunotherapy program.
The companies revealed that their Phase 3 INTerpath-001 clinical study evaluating Intismeran autogene in combination with Keytruda successfully achieved both its primary objective of recurrence-free survival and secondary objective of distant metastasis-free survival among patients with fully resected Stage IIB-IV melanoma.
During premarket activity, MRK shares touched $143.52, establishing a fresh 52-week peak and surpassing the previous high watermark of $137.98.
The clinical investigation included 1,137 high-risk melanoma patients who underwent complete surgical tumor removal. Participants were administered up to nine treatment cycles of Keytruda combined with the personalized vaccine formulation, or Keytruda monotherapy, spanning roughly twelve months. The study revealed no unexpected safety concerns.
This breakthrough represents the inaugural successful late-stage clinical trial outcome for an mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy and the first investigation demonstrating superior efficacy compared to Keytruda monotherapy in this specific patient population.
These findings build upon impressive Phase 2b results disclosed in January, which demonstrated the combination therapy decreased the likelihood of disease recurrence or mortality by 49% over a five-year period when compared to Keytruda alone.
Moderna experienced explosive growth exceeding 90% during premarket trading following the announcement, with shares climbing to $118.61. The biotechnology company dominated Stocktwits trending discussions immediately after the news release.
Regulatory Submissions on the Horizon
Dean Li, Merck’s head of research and development, stated during a CNBC interview that both organizations anticipate initiating regulatory agency discussions in the coming months. Moderna’s Chief Executive Officer Stephane Bancel acknowledged that pricing strategies have not yet been determined, emphasizing that the clinical data only recently became available “within the past few days.”
Bancel further highlighted that Intismeran’s production process differs from cellular therapies as it doesn’t require harvesting patients’ own cells, potentially enabling more efficient manufacturing scalability and reduced production expenses.
Financial analysts at J.P. Morgan emphasized that the vaccine’s commercial introduction for adjuvant melanoma treatment will prove critical for Moderna’s path toward sustained profitability. Barclays’ analytical team forecasts the therapeutic approach could generate approximately $3 billion in melanoma-specific sales by 2035.
Wall Street Upgrades Provide Additional Momentum
This clinical achievement follows a series of favorable analyst actions in recent weeks. Daiwa elevated MRK to Outperform from Neutral on August 17, referencing advancement across the company’s development pipeline. Wells Fargo initiated coverage with a Buy recommendation on the same date.
William Blair’s equity analyst Myles Minter commented that the interim findings establish a strong foundation for both companies to pursue regulatory authorization, and the results appear encouraging for ongoing investigations across additional cancer indications. Multiple Phase 3 trials evaluating non-small cell lung cancer applications continue patient enrollment.
The broader equity markets showed minimal movement on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 advancing just 0.1% and the Nasdaq experiencing slight declines, confirming that MRK’s substantial gains were entirely driven by company-specific catalysts.
As of Wednesday’s premarket trading session, Merck shares are currently changing hands at a new 52-week high of $143.52.
The post Merck (MRK) Stock Rockets 10% After Groundbreaking Cancer Vaccine Trial Success appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Tesla announced a Cybercab launch event via X, inviting robo-taxi passengers who ride through August 23 to attend.
TSLA shares declined 0.3% to $335.94 during Wednesday’s premarket session, demonstrating minimal investor enthusiasm.
The electric vehicle maker’s robo-taxi platform debuted in Austin during June 2025 and has expanded to several metropolitan areas.
The company’s Q2 earnings significantly underperformed expectations with $0.33 EPS versus $0.50 consensus, despite revenue surpassing forecasts at $28.24 billion.
Wall Street maintains a $401.74 average price objective for TSLA with a collective “Hold” recommendation.
Tesla unveiled plans for a Cybercab launch event Monday night through its X platform, announcing that robo-taxi passengers using the service before August 23 could receive exclusive invitations. The announcement did little to energize traders, as TSLA shares dipped 0.3% to $335.94 during Wednesday’s premarket hours.
The subdued market response speaks volumes about investor expectations.
When Tesla hosted a robo-taxi presentation in October 2024, shares were trading around $240 ahead of Elon Musk’s event. Within a month, the stock had climbed to approximately $350. Currently hovering in that same territory, investors appear to be demanding substantive revenue generation rather than promotional events.
The Austin, Texas rollout of Tesla’s autonomous ride-hailing platform occurred in June 2025, utilizing Model Y vehicles equipped with Full-Self Driving technology. Operations have since spread across multiple urban centers. The Cybercab represents Tesla’s purpose-designed autonomous vehicle featuring no traditional steering controls, with manufacturing commencing earlier this year.
According to reports, Tesla has submitted applications for a charging infrastructure featuring up to 80 wireless charging stations, demonstrating commitment to fleet expansion capabilities.
Quarterly Results Dampen Investor Optimism
Tesla released second-quarter financial results on July 22nd, delivering earnings per share of $0.33—falling short of the $0.50 Wall Street consensus by $0.17. Top-line revenue reached $28.24 billion, surpassing the $26.42 billion forecast and representing a 25.5% increase compared to the prior year.
The company’s return on equity measured 3.82% while net margin registered 3.67%. Free cash flow has moved into negative territory as capital expenditures accelerate for robo-taxi infrastructure and AI-powered robotics development.
Tesla currently commands a valuation of approximately 312 times trailing earnings—an elevated multiple that becomes harder to justify following the recent earnings disappointment.
Rivals Accelerate Autonomous Transportation Efforts
The autonomous ride-hailing market features multiple well-funded competitors. Alphabet’s Waymo division and Amazon-backed Zoox continue expanding their footprints, with Zoox recently launching operations in San Francisco and Las Vegas markets.
Market share distribution among these competing platforms remains uncertain, with the ultimate winner yet to be determined.
Investment activity shows Petersen Hastings Wealth Advisors increased its TSLA position by 142.1% during Q2, expanding its holdings to 3,436 shares valued at approximately $1.45 million. Institutional ownership of Tesla stock stands at 66.2% overall.
Major institutional positions include Vanguard with 258.9 million shares, State Street controlling 114.8 million shares, and Geode Capital managing 65.7 million shares.
Analyst activity includes an Evercore upgrade to outperform issued in June. DZ Bank elevated its rating to strong buy during July. Morgan Stanley maintained equal weight while reducing its price target from $417 to $400. Mizuho established a $450 objective with an outperform designation. GLJ Research represents the bearish extreme, maintaining a Sell rating with a $24.86 price target.
The consensus analyst price objective sits at $401.74, accompanied by an overall “Hold” rating across coverage.
TSLA trades within a 52-week range spanning $297.38 to $498.83. The stock’s 50-day moving average registers at $368.18 while the 200-day moving average stands at $388.55.
The post Tesla (TSLA) Stock: Will Cybercab Launch Event Revive Investor Interest? appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Shares of Lowe’s declined approximately 4% to $208 following mixed second-quarter earnings released Wednesday
The company delivered adjusted earnings per share of $4.40, surpassing the Street estimate of $4.22, though revenue of $26 billion fell short of the anticipated $26.14 billion
Management revised full-year sales guidance to $92 billion, trailing Wall Street’s consensus projection of $92.94 billion
Comparable sales increased a modest 0.2%, supported by professional customer segments and e-commerce growth, while do-it-yourself demand remained weak
Wall Street maintains a Moderate Buy rating on LOW shares with a consensus price target of $261.12, suggesting approximately 21% potential upside
Shares of Lowe’s tumbled nearly 4% to approximately $208 during Wednesday’s early trading session following the home improvement giant’s mixed second-quarter performance and downward revision to its full-year revenue projection.
The retailer’s shares had already declined 11% year-to-date prior to the earnings announcement. Wednesday’s results provided little catalyst for a reversal.
For the fiscal quarter concluded July 31, Lowe’s delivered adjusted earnings of $4.40 per share, representing a 1.6% year-over-year increase and exceeding analyst projections of $4.22. Total revenue reached $26 billion, marking an 8% climb versus the prior-year period, though marginally below expectations of $26.14 billion.
LOWE'S $LOW Q2’26 EARNINGS HIGHLIGHTS
Revenue: $26.0B (Est. $26.16B) ; +8% YoY
Adj. EPS: $4.40 (Est. $4.22) ; +1.6% YoY
Comparable Sales: +0.2%
Net Earnings: $2.4B
Cuts FY26 Guide:
Revenue: $92.0B; from $92.0B-$94.0B
Comparable Sales: flat YoY; from flat… pic.twitter.com/9D9oWodJTW
— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) August 19, 2026
The company’s net income totaled $2.4 billion for the quarter, essentially unchanged from the same period a year earlier.
Investor concerns centered primarily on forward guidance. Lowe’s tightened its full-year revenue forecast to $92 billion, down from its previous range of $92 billion to $94 billion. Analysts had projected $92.94 billion. The retailer also established full-year adjusted EPS guidance of $12.25, falling short of the consensus forecast of $12.43.
Management indicated it now anticipates full-year comparable sales to be flat, retreating from its prior outlook calling for flat to 2% growth.
Professional Customers and Digital Channels Drive Growth
The retailer reported comparable sales growth of 0.2% throughout the quarter. This incremental advancement was powered by professional customer segments, encompassing contractors, builders, and renovation specialists, alongside expansion in digital commerce and home installation services.
E-commerce revenue climbed 15.7% during the three-month period. Home installation, design consultation, and project management services also provided meaningful contribution to revenue performance.
Chief Executive Officer Marvin Ellison highlighted these segments as critical drivers of performance. “Sustained growth in Pro, Online, and Home Services led to our fifth consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales, despite pressure in discretionary DIY spending,” he stated.
Consumer DIY Spending Remains Challenged
Do-it-yourself consumer spending continued its sluggish trend as persistent inflation caused many homeowners to postpone smaller renovation projects. This weakness created headwinds for overall revenue generation despite robust performance in professional and digital segments.
While the residential real estate market shows signs of recovery, elevated property values have continued to suppress home improvement investment throughout 2026.
Wall Street analysts presently maintain a Moderate Buy consensus rating on LOW shares, reflecting 14 Buy recommendations and 7 Hold ratings from 21 analysts covering the stock over the last three months.
The consensus price target stands at $261.12, implying roughly 21% appreciation potential from present levels. These ratings could face adjustments following the revised guidance disclosure.
Options market activity suggested an anticipated move of approximately 4.3% surrounding the earnings announcement. The actual stock movement aligned closely with these expectations.
The post Why Lowe’s (LOW) Stock Tumbled 4% After Q2 Earnings Despite EPS Beat appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Bank of America maintains its $350 price target for Nvidia (NVDA), which opened at $219 on Wednesday
The chipmaker trades at a 40%-50% discount compared to AI computing competitors based on enterprise value-to-free cash flow metrics
NVDA’s valuation sits 31%-36% under the S&P 500 average, presenting what BofA describes as an attractive entry point
The stock remains 7% off its 52-week peak of $236.54 reached on May 14
Stifel’s Ruben Roy anticipates Nvidia will exceed expectations and raise guidance during its Aug. 26 earnings call
With Nvidia (NVDA) trading at $219 as of Wednesday’s open, Bank of America believes investors are looking at a significant buying opportunity. BofA’s equity analyst Vivek Arya has reaffirmed his $350 price objective for the chipmaker, suggesting potential gains approaching $130 per share from present trading levels.
In Tuesday’s client communication, Arya emphasized valuation metrics as the foundation of his bullish stance. When measured by enterprise value-to-free cash flow, Nvidia is currently priced at a 40%-50% markdown relative to competing AI infrastructure providers. The company also trades at a 31%-36% discount versus the broader S&P 500 index using identical valuation measures.
According to BofA’s analysis, this valuation gap represents a market mispricing. Arya contends the discount is “overstating the risks” associated with capital deployment in private artificial intelligence ventures such as OpenAI and Anthropic, recommending institutional investors establish positions at current price levels.
BofA’s Case for Upside Momentum
Central to Bank of America’s optimistic outlook is Nvidia’s $105 billion infrastructure partnership with OpenAI. The investment firm views this arrangement as transforming Nvidia from merely a semiconductor vendor into a comprehensive AI infrastructure partner, delivering power solutions, facility access, and processing hardware to emerging cloud providers and advanced AI research facilities.
Arya also emphasized a defensive strategic approach. While major cloud platforms including Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft pursue in-house chip development initiatives, Nvidia has been diversifying its customer portfolio by investing in emerging AI startups. This strategy provides the company with alternative revenue channels should demand from hyperscale customers moderate.
Although NVDA shares have climbed 8% during the past 30 days, the stock continues trading 7% beneath its 52-week high of $236.54 established on May 14.
Upcoming Earnings Report in Focus
Investor attention has now shifted toward Aug. 26, when Nvidia releases quarterly results. Stifel’s equity analyst Ruben Roy forecasts the company will surpass consensus estimates and increase forward guidance.
Roy referenced a robust earnings period across the sector, observing that cloud service provider capital spending forecasts were increased, Foxconn’s cloud and networking division exceeded 50% of total revenue for the first time, and Super Micro secured more than $60 billion in fresh orders within a single quarter.
Roy cautioned that gross profit margins, rather than revenue demand, represent the primary uncertainty factor. Rising memory component costs and increased competition in AI inference applications could pressure profitability, though he suggests these headwinds are partially reflected in current valuation multiples.
Market sentiment heading into the Aug. 26 report appears constructive. The investment community anticipates solid financial performance and optimistic commentary from CEO Jensen Huang during the earnings conference call.
Shares declined 2.34% in Wednesday’s session, extending a trend of near-term price fluctuations despite sustained positive sentiment from Wall Street analysts over the medium to long term.
The post Nvidia (NVDA) Stock: BofA Sets $350 Target, Citing 60% Upside Potential appeared first on Blockonomi.

The growing role of blockchain and cryptocurrency in online payments is transforming digital transactions globally. Some of this success is fuelled by the growing popularity of the iGaming market, with crypto offering players enhanced security, faster processing times, lower fees, and more privacy. The use of blockchain also allows operators to offer provably fair games with verifiable randomness and outcomes, providing a welcome transparency to customer interactions.
However, traditional payment methods such as eCheck, a digital bank transfer option, continue to appeal to some online casino players. Alberta has seen rising interest in this area, with eCheck-related page visits reportedly up 22% quarter-over-quarter. To help meet that demand, Casino.ca Alberta reviews online casinos in Alberta so readers can compare key features and make a more informed decision about where to play. Ultimately, the best payment method will depend on each player’s priorities, so here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of each option.
Crypto deposits vs Traditional methods
Blockchain-based payments use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, while traditional banking uses eChecks and Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs). The main differences include:
1. Convenience
Crypto deposits: These allow players seamless global access and remove currency conversion irritations. They are easy to set up and offer round-the-clock availability with no need for bank logins or any third-party approvals. The only drawback here is the need for some knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Traditional methods: These offer users the convenience of widespread acceptance, with all banks accepting these types of payments. Transactions are simple but do require bank authentication or any special knowledge. They may also be affected by daily limits and restrictive banking hours.
2. Speed
Crypto: Cryptocurrencies are well-known for their speedy transactions. Deposits and withdrawals are typically done in a matter of minutes, making it extremely convenient in today’s fast-paced world.
eChecks and EFTs: Traditional methods can also offer quick deposits, with Interac offering users instant or near-instant transactions. However, withdrawals can take between 1 to 5 business days, and sometimes longer. This is due to processing, verification, and banking cycles.
3. Fees
Crypto transactions: Cryptocurrencies typically have lower fees than traditional methods, although they can fluctuate depending on demand. Regular upgrades to systems continue to improve the blockchain network capacity and improve efficiency, which drives costs down.
E-Transfers and eChecks are often low-cost or free at many casinos. Credit cards can add 2–5% cash advance fees, which add up over time. Fees for traditional methods generally remain stable, unlike the fluctuating fees for cryptocurrencies.
4. Security
Cryptocurrencies offer users strong decentralised security through the use of immutable ledgers. An immutable ledger is a decentralised, digital record of transactions. It cannot be altered, deleted, or interfered with once they are recorded, ensuring a permanent, transparent, and auditable transaction history. This method also gives the user anonymity as no personal information, such as bank details are shared with the casino.
Traditional methods like eChecks and EFTs provide a high level of security, with all the typical federally regulated banking safeguards on offer. That includes encryption, fraud monitoring, and reversible transactions, plus easier recovery through banks. There’s no anonymity here however, with transactions connected to verified identities to allow for regional regulatory compliance and responsible gaming requirements.
Verdict
Crypto deposits offer gamers speed, anonymity, and global access, while eChecks and EFTs provide familiarity, convenience and the security of regulated banking. While both methods have their pros and cons, players must weigh convenience, risk tolerance, and transaction preferences when selecting between blockchain banking and traditional methods. Ultimately, the choice of which is better comes down to personal preference.
The good news is that whatever method players prefer, they can be sure there’s a regulated casino that will provide what they are looking for. And as the Canadian market continues to grow in popularity and expand, especially with this year’s rollout of private operators in Alberta, market competition will ensure innovation provides players with even more options.
Responsible gaming
Currently, adoption of crypto payment methods remains limited amongst regulated online casinos in Canada. Many provincial gaming regulators, such as Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC), have strict rules on player protection and therefore rely on traditional methods. These ensure traceability, age verification, and ensure responsible gambling tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusions are adhered to.
Blockchain’s potential for enhanced transparent auditing and secure transactions would undoubtedly help Canada achieve its regulatory goals, but volatility risks and the inability to enforce responsible gambling features have delayed integration until solutions can be found.
The post Blockchain Banking: Crypto Deposits vs Traditional eChecks & EFTs at Canadian Casinos appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:
SEC proposes two registration exemptions for crypto offerings up to $5M and $75M annually.
Conditional safe harbor lets tokens exit investment contract status after managerial efforts end.
Proposal preempts state securities registration for exempted crypto offerings and resales.
Public comment period runs 60 days after publication in the Federal Register.

The Securities and Exchange Commission has proposed Regulation Crypto Assets, a new framework designed for investment contracts tied to crypto assets.
Announced on August 18, 2026, the plan introduces two registration exemptions and a conditional safe harbor. SEC Chairman Paul Atkins said the rules give crypto entrepreneurs clearer pathways to raise capital under federal securities laws.
The proposal builds on the agency’s March 2026 interpretive guidance and now enters a 60-day public comment period.
Exemptions Aim to Lower Registration Barriers
Regulation Crypto Assets creates two distinct paths for issuers to avoid full registration under the Securities Act of 1933. The first exemption applies once, allowing offerings up to $5 million within a four-year window.
Issuers using this path must still provide investors with principles-based narrative disclosures before any sale occurs.
The second exemption covers larger raises, permitting up to $75 million during any rolling 12-month period. Companies relying on this option face additional requirements beyond basic disclosures. They must supply financial statements and maintain ongoing reporting once the offering begins.
Atkins said the proposal reflects the Commission’s broader push to modernize its rulebook while Congress works toward permanent crypto legislation.
He added that the framework aims to onshore innovation in crypto asset markets for years to come. Both exemptions share a common goal: reducing barriers that pushed crypto entrepreneurs toward informal or offshore fundraising methods.
The proposal also extends beyond federal rules by addressing state-level friction. Securities issued under either exemption, along with certain secondary trades, would be exempt from state registration and qualification requirements. This preemption could simplify compliance for issuers operating across multiple jurisdictions.
Safe Harbor Targets Investment Contract Status
A central feature of Regulation Crypto Assets is its conditional safe harbor provision. Under specified conditions, a crypto asset would no longer count as part of an investment contract. This shift matters because investment contracts fall under the SEC’s definition of a security.
The safe harbor becomes available once an issuer completes or permanently ends the managerial efforts it originally promised.
Atkins explained that the rule “would also allow for a safe harbor once an issuer has completed or permanently ceased all essential managerial efforts that it represented or promised it would take under an investment contract.” Once those obligations conclude, the underlying token could trade without ongoing securities classification.
This approach directly responds to a common industry complaint. Many crypto projects argued that assets remain classified as securities long after any centralized development work ends. Regulation Crypto Assets attempts to formalize when that classification should lapse.
Atkins also framed the rulemaking within a wider constitutional purpose, noting that Congress built securities laws to amplify opportunities for entrepreneurs within specific guardrails. He called the proposal a key element of the Commission’s strategy to advance its rule books for the modern era.
Public feedback will shape the final version of Regulation Crypto Assets before adoption. The comment window runs 60 days from the proposal’s publication in the Federal Register. Market participants, legal experts, and crypto issuers are expected to weigh in during this period.
The post SEC Unveils “Regulation Crypto Assets” Proposal With New Offering Exemptions appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:
Neuberger and Securitize launched HINC, a tokenized high-income fund, on Sui and three chains.
HINC invests in high-yield bonds, CLOs, and leveraged loans, expanding tokenized fixed income.
The launch marks Securitize’s first integration with Sui and Neuberger’s first subadvisor role.
HINC joins Matrixdock, R25, KAIO, and Mubadala Capital in Sui’s growing institutional RWA base.
Sui has confirmed its first integration with Securitize through the launch of the Neuberger Securitize High Income Tokenized Fund, known as HINC.
The fund brings high-yield bonds, collateralized loan obligations, and leveraged loans onto the Sui network. HINC moves beyond the treasury and money market products that have dominated tokenized funds so far.
Neuberger serves as subadvisor to the fund, while Securitize supplies the regulated tokenization infrastructure. The launch also spans Avalanche, Ethereum, and Solana alongside Sui.
HINC Brings a New Fixed Income Strategy to Sui
HINC represents an actively managed fund focused primarily on high-yield bonds. The strategy also includes CLOs and leveraged loans as supporting assets.
Most tokenized funds to date have centered on treasuries and money market instruments. This launch introduces a higher-yield fixed income category that remains uncommon in tokenized form.
Neuberger brings its fixed income expertise to the fund as subadvisor. The firm oversees more than $230 billion in assets across its platform.
This marks Neuberger’s first engagement as subadvisor to a tokenized fund. Securitize continues its role as a leading provider of tokenization infrastructure for regulated products.
Adeniyi Abiodun, Co-Founder and CPO of Mysten Labs, original contributors to Sui, called the launch a pivotal milestone, noting that HINC represents “Securitize’s inaugural integration with Sui, signaling a significant shift in the trajectory of institutional tokenization.”
He explained that asset managers are increasingly looking beyond basic instruments toward networks built to handle full regulatory complexity.
Abiodun added that Sui “was designed precisely for this level of sophistication,” calling it invigorating to see HINC join the network’s expanding base of institutional-grade assets.
His comments point to a broader pattern of asset managers seeking compliance-ready infrastructure before committing capital onchain.
Sui Expands Its Institutional RWA Ecosystem
Sui shared news of the integration through its official X account, framing HINC as a step beyond typical tokenized products.
Sui's first integration with @Securitize is live.
The High Income Tokenized Fund (HINC) brings high-yield bonds, CLOs, and leveraged loans onchain, going beyond the treasuries and money markets that drive most tokenized funds to date.
Learn more https://t.co/OWrovQjtKb
— Sui (@SuiNetwork) August 18, 2026
The post noted that most tokenized funds have focused on treasuries and money markets until now. HINC changes that pattern by adding high-yield fixed income exposure onchain.
HINC joins existing institutional activity on Sui from firms including Matrixdock, R25, KAIO, and Mubadala Capital. These initiatives collectively broaden the range of tokenized financial products available on the network. Together, they reflect growing institutional interest in Sui as infrastructure for regulated assets.
Carlos Domingo, CEO and Founder at Securitize, said Sui has built “a strong, fast-growing ecosystem with the infrastructure and developer community to support the next generation of onchain financial products.” He noted that HINC becomes the first Securitize-issued asset available on the network.
Domingo added that “tokenizing an asset is only the beginning,” explaining that its value grows as it becomes accessible across more of the onchain economy.
He said expanding Securitize assets across blockchain ecosystems like Sui builds long-term connectivity for investors.
Tokenized real-world assets are expected to grow substantially by 2030 across the industry. As traditional financial products continue moving onchain, Sui’s programmable infrastructure offers a base for more complex offerings. Eligible investors can access further details on HINC directly through Securitize.
The post Securitize and Neuberger Launch High-Yield Tokenized Fund HINC on Sui appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
IBM achieved a critical breakthrough by successfully integrating and cooling two cryogenic modules for its quantum computing platform.
This achievement advances the company’s timeline for deploying Starling, a fault-tolerant quantum supercomputer expected by decade’s end.
Shares of IBM opened at $232.74 Wednesday morning, representing a 1.7% increase, with the company valued at $219.27 billion.
Despite recent price target reductions from several analysts, the consensus recommendation stays at “Moderate Buy” with a $265.40 average target.
Institutional ownership stands at 58.96%, with Merit Financial Group expanding its position by 6.6% during Q2.
Shares of IBM climbed to $232.74 at Wednesday’s opening bell, marking a 1.7% gain following the tech giant’s announcement of a significant quantum computing advancement.
The computing pioneer revealed it has successfully integrated and cooled two modules of its innovative cryogenic system. This infrastructure represents the foundation needed to connect hundreds of quantum processors within a single ultra-cold operational environment.
This achievement propels IBM toward its ambitious goal of deploying Starling, a fault-tolerant quantum supercomputer scheduled for release before the decade closes.
Fault tolerance enables systems to maintain functionality despite component failures. In quantum computing, where calculations depend on delicate quantum states, achieving this capability has remained one of the field’s most significant challenges.
“When we talk about Starling, we’re talking about a machine that’s at the scale of 200 qubits and 100 billion operations,” said Jerry Chow, IBM’s head of quantum-centric supercomputing.
The innovative architecture facilitates data transfer between processors, unlocking possibilities for more sophisticated computational tasks. Each module exceeds 8 feet in both height and width and is currently operational at an IBM facility in upstate New York.
Preliminary testing demonstrates the modules achieve 4 Kelvin temperatures in less than five days, subsequently dropping below 15 millikelvin. These extremely low temperatures, approaching absolute zero, are essential for quantum chip operation.
The announcement follows IBM’s recent publication of three technical papers with research collaborators, detailing methods for real-time verification of quantum calculation accuracy.
Wall Street Reduces Targets While Maintaining Bullish Stance
Recent weeks have seen multiple investment firms adjust their price expectations downward. Argus revised its forecast from $360 down to $280, JPMorgan reduced its target from $291 to $250, and Jefferies lowered its outlook from $320 to $260. Susquehanna established a $225 target with a neutral position.
Among 27 analysts tracking the stock, 15 recommend buying, 11 suggest holding, and one advises selling. The consensus price target stands at $265.40, substantially above current market levels.
Over the past year, IBM shares have traded between $199.19 and $332.46, while the 50-day moving average currently sits at $249.44.
Institutional Activity Remains Strong
During the second quarter, Merit Financial Group expanded its IBM holdings by 6.6%, increasing its stake to 55,171 shares worth roughly $15.5 million.
Multiple investment firms established fresh positions in recent quarters, including Basepoint Wealth, Portus Wealth Advisors, and Joseph Group Capital Management. Institutional investors collectively control 58.96% of outstanding shares.
The company’s second-quarter results showed earnings of $2.93 per share, aligning with Wall Street projections. Revenue totaled $17.16 billion, falling short of the $17.46 billion forecast but representing a 1.1% year-over-year increase.
Shareholders will receive a quarterly dividend of $1.69 per share on September 10, yielding 2.9% annually.
The company currently faces a securities fraud inquiry from law firm Bleichmar Fonti and Auld concerning its Z mainframe business slowdown. No determination of wrongdoing has been made.
Looking ahead, Starling will function as a stepping stone toward Blue Jay, an even more advanced quantum system IBM intends to launch in the early 2030s.
The post IBM (IBM) Stock Gains on Major Quantum Computing Milestone appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Q2 earnings release scheduled for August 20 before the opening bell
Analyst consensus projects $0.74 earnings per share versus $0.68 year-over-year, with revenues expected to reach $186.62 billion
A 5% price movement in either direction is anticipated by options market participants
Bearish sentiment reflected in 1.56x put-to-call ratio among options traders
Strong Buy rating prevails across Wall Street with $140.33 average target price
The retail giant approaches Thursday’s second-quarter financial disclosure with shares posting approximately 4% gains for the year but suffering a 14% decline during the last three-month period. Trading activity placed WMT near the $115 level ahead of the announcement.
Financial analysts anticipate second-quarter earnings of $0.74 per share, representing growth from the $0.68 reported during the comparable period one year earlier. Top-line revenue projections stand at $186.62 billion, marking an increase from the prior year’s $177.4 billion for Q2 2025.
Derivatives market activity suggests a 5.14% price fluctuation possibility following the earnings announcement. This expectation aligns closely with historical volatility patterns surrounding WMT earnings events.
Historical performance shows significant post-earnings volatility. Following the May 21, 2026 quarterly report, shares declined 7.27% in the subsequent trading session. Prior to that, the stock surged 6.46% following November 2025 disclosures, while August 2025 results triggered a 4.49% retreat. Volatility has been a consistent theme.
Options contracts set to expire August 21 show a put-to-call ratio of 1.56x, indicating bearish positioning among derivatives traders. Lower-strike contract pricing suggests a potential 4.28% downside scenario if quarterly results fall short of expectations.
Critical Focus Areas for Investors
Market participants will scrutinize management’s assessment of American consumer sentiment during the earnings call. Inflationary pressures combined with broader economic uncertainty have influenced shopping behaviors, making Walmart‘s perspective on consumer health particularly valuable.
Performance metrics from higher-margin operations including digital commerce, advertising platforms, and third-party marketplace services will draw considerable attention. These segments demonstrated momentum during the first quarter, and sustained growth would reinforce the bullish thesis.
Forward-looking guidance for both the third quarter and complete fiscal year will prove equally critical as the actual quarterly figures. In the current macroeconomic climate, future expectations carry substantial weight.
Valuation considerations add complexity to the investment case. Barchart metrics reveal WMT trading at nearly 40 times forward earnings, a premium multiple that leaves minimal margin for disappointment on Thursday.
The Bullish Perspective
Bernstein’s senior analyst Zhihan Ma advises clients to accumulate shares should any post-announcement weakness materialize. While acknowledging that Walmart faces comparable sales headwinds from cycling previous tariff-related general merchandise strength, she emphasized the company’s robust fundamental positioning beyond short-term fluctuations.
The Bernstein firm maintains a $142 price objective on WMT shares, suggesting potential appreciation exceeding 30% from present trading levels.
Income-focused investors can also consider the stock’s 0.86% dividend yield, which strengthens the investment thesis for long-term shareholders.
The broader Street consensus leans decidedly positive with a Strong Buy rating. Among the 29 analysts monitored by TipRanks, 26 maintain Buy recommendations while 3 advocate a Hold stance.
The consensus price target reaches $140.33, representing approximately 22% upside potential from current valuation levels. The most optimistic analyst forecast extends to $155 per share.
Shares have fluctuated within a 52-week range spanning $95.42 to $135.16. The stock’s 0.56 beta coefficient indicates lower volatility relative to broader equity markets under normal conditions, though earnings catalysts can temporarily override this characteristic.
The post Walmart (WMT) Q2 Earnings Preview: Wall Street Eyes 5% Swing Thursday appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Baidu shares plunged more than 12% following second-quarter revenue of 31.33 billion yuan that fell short of analyst projections
Advertising revenue tumbled 19% compared to the previous year, marking the eighth consecutive quarterly decline dating back to Q2 2024
Morgan Stanley shifted its rating on BIDU to Underweight from Equal-Weight while reducing the price target by 38.5% to $80
Barclays reduced its target price to $96 from $124 while keeping its Equalweight stance unchanged
Despite AI cloud revenue climbing 50% and GPU Cloud sales soaring 283%, these gains failed to compensate for advertising headwinds
Shares of Baidu ended Tuesday’s trading session at approximately $90.87, sliding roughly 12% following the release of second-quarter financial results that left investors disappointed. The Chinese tech giant’s stock has now lost more than 30% of its value year-to-date and is hovering close to its 52-week low of $84.82.
Second-quarter revenue totaled 31.33 billion yuan ($4.62 billion), representing a 4% year-over-year decrease and falling short of the 31.95 billion yuan consensus estimate. Adjusted earnings per American depositary share plummeted 47% to $1.06, well below analyst expectations of $1.38.
The primary culprit behind the disappointing results was the company’s online advertising segment. Revenue from this division plunged 19% to 13.1 billion yuan ($1.94 billion) as advertisers in China reduced their marketing budgets. This represents the eighth consecutive quarter of year-over-year contractions in search advertising revenue, a streak that began in Q2 2024. The pace of deterioration has now intensified to approximately 20% annually.
The company also made a strategic decision to restrict monetization of its latest AI-enhanced search features throughout the quarter, choosing to emphasize user satisfaction over immediate revenue generation. This approach negatively impacted the quarter’s financial performance.
Wall Street Analyst Turns Bearish
Morgan Stanley analyst Gary Yu wasted no time responding to the earnings report. He downgraded BIDU to Underweight from Equal-Weight while slashing the price target by 38.5%, bringing it down from $130 to $80. This new target suggests potential additional downside of approximately 12% from current trading levels.
Yu revised his core revenue projections for 2026 through 2028 downward by 1% to 9% and reduced non-GAAP operating profit estimates by 6% to 31%. The investment bank cited deteriorating sales performance and escalating AI-related investments as primary concerns, with minimal improvement anticipated during the latter half of 2026.
Capital expenditures nearly doubled compared to the previous quarter, reaching 11.39 billion yuan, which pushed free cash flow into negative territory at 7.95 billion yuan ($1.18 billion). This substantial spending level intensifies pressure on Baidu to demonstrate that its artificial intelligence initiatives can ultimately compensate for declining advertising revenues.
Barclays similarly lowered its price objective, adjusting it to $96 from $124, while maintaining its Equalweight rating. The firm expressed skepticism that advertising revenue declines will decelerate in the near term and cautioned that ongoing AI investments will continue pressuring operating margins throughout upcoming quarters.
Artificial Intelligence Division Shows Promise
The company’s AI operations delivered more encouraging results. Baidu’s AI cloud revenue expanded 50% year-over-year, while GPU Cloud revenue skyrocketed 283%. The overall AI business generated revenue of 12.5 billion yuan ($1.85 billion), up 25% from the prior year.
Barclays observed that Baidu has fallen behind rivals in developing advanced large language models and has recently recruited AI specialists to narrow this competitive gap.
Morgan Stanley anticipates AI cloud infrastructure revenue will accelerate to 66% year-over-year growth in upcoming periods, surpassing the previous quarter’s 50% expansion rate.
However, despite the positive AI momentum, the company’s new AI-powered marketing solutions demonstrated minimal advancement during Q2, remaining essentially unchanged throughout the quarter.
According to TipRanks, the Street’s consensus rating on BIDU stands at Moderate Buy. Among 7 analysts providing coverage, 4 recommend Buy, 2 suggest Hold, and 1 advises Sell, with an average two-month price target of $148.86.
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Key Highlights
Fourth quarter revenue increased 6.3% year-over-year to $3.63 billion, surpassing Street expectations of $3.55 billion
Adjusted earnings per share of $0.39 exceeded analyst consensus of $0.32
Net loss contracted significantly to $116 million from $546 million in the prior-year period
Workforce reduction of 10,000 positions confirmed, reaching the upper limit of management’s target
Adjusted operating margin forecast upgraded to 12.7%-13.5% from prior range of 12.5%-13%
Shares of Estée Lauder rallied approximately 7% during premarket hours on Wednesday, reaching $90.81, following the cosmetics giant’s release of fourth-quarter earnings that exceeded Wall Street projections and demonstrated meaningful progress in its strategic transformation.
Revenue for the fourth fiscal quarter that concluded on June 30 advanced 6.3% to $3.63 billion. The figure surpassed Wall Street’s consensus projection of $3.55 billion. On an adjusted basis, the company delivered earnings of $0.39 per share, outperforming the analyst estimate of $0.32 per share.
The company’s net loss for the period shrank to $116 million, equivalent to $0.32 per share, compared to a loss of $546 million, or $1.51 per share, during the corresponding quarter last year.
ESTÉE LAUDER $EL Q4’26 EARNINGS HIGHLIGHTS
Revenue: $3.6B (Est. $3.54B) ; +6% YoY
Adj. EPS: $0.39; +100% YoY
Adjusted Operating Income: $267M; +95% YoY
FY27 Guide:
Adj. EPS: $3.10-$3.35 (Est. $3.18)
Organic Net Sales Growth: 3% to 5%
Adjusted Operating… pic.twitter.com/1feH2FxqRK
— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) August 19, 2026
The skin care division emerged as a standout performer, recording revenue growth of 8.7% to reach $1.85 billion. Fragrance sales surged 10% to $618 million. The makeup segment posted a 2.9% increase to $1.01 billion. Hair care represented the only declining category, slipping 0.7% to $140 million.
These quarterly figures marked the conclusion of three consecutive years of declining annual revenues, a period that erased approximately $100 billion in shareholder value since the company reached its post-pandemic valuation peak in early 2022.
Strategic Transformation Gains Momentum
Chief Executive Stéphane de La Faverie, who assumed leadership in 2025, has prioritized profitability enhancement initiatives. The organization reported achieving $1.2 billion in aggregate gross benefits through its profit recovery and expansion program, reaching the upper boundary of its previously communicated target range.
Estée Lauder verified that it completed a net workforce reduction of 10,000 employees, likewise meeting the maximum of its projected range. Management indicated these headcount reductions will generate a 50% improvement in corporate employee productivity. Aggregate cumulative restructuring expenses exceeded the high end of the $1.5 billion to $1.7 billion guidance range by a modest amount.
“We concluded the fiscal year with strong momentum, as organic revenue expansion accelerated to 5% for our fourth straight quarter of positive growth alongside enhanced profitability,” de La Faverie stated.
Forward Guidance Enhanced
Looking ahead, Estée Lauder preserved its organic revenue growth guidance at 3% to 5% for the coming fiscal year, supported by sustained momentum in fragrance and skin care categories, combined with an anticipated rebound in makeup sales.
Management elevated its adjusted operating margin projection to a range spanning 12.7% to 13.5%, representing an improvement from the previous preliminary guidance of 12.5% to 13%.
The company additionally reaffirmed its revenue outlook extending through fiscal 2027.
Management has been broadening its appeal among younger demographics through partnerships with Amazon and TikTok Shop, while simultaneously accelerating innovation cycles throughout its brand ecosystem, which encompasses La Mer, Jo Malone London, MAC, Smashbox and Kilian Paris.
As of the market close on August 18, EL shares were changing hands at $84.27.
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