Blockonomi

Key Highlights
VivoPower shares maintain strength following battery storage feasibility announcement
Company pursuing Nordic reserve market access via Mo i Rana battery facility
Energy storage initiative could diversify VivoPower’s AI data center income
Feasibility study explores multiple reserve service opportunities for VIVO
Battery infrastructure positioned to complement expanding AI computing demand
Shares of VivoPower PLC (VIVO) maintained most of their recent upward movement following the company’s announcement regarding a battery energy storage feasibility study in Norway. VIVO shares traded at $4.7890 during pre-market hours, declining 0.44%, following the previous session’s close at $4.8100, which represented a 2.78% increase. The feasibility analysis projects potential incremental annual EBITDA contributions reaching $4 million through reserve market engagement.
VivoPower PLC, VIVO
Battery Energy Storage Feasibility Assessment Underway at Norwegian Site
VivoPower announced ongoing technical and commercial evaluation efforts at its Mo i Rana data center location. This Northern Norway facility possesses 41.5 MW of available capacity. The organization is exploring the integration of a battery energy storage system adjacent to existing operations.
The proposed infrastructure would enable the facility to participate in additional Nordic reserve markets. VivoPower anticipates the battery installation will provide access to grid services unavailable through computation loads alone. These specialized services demand characteristics including endurance capability, bidirectional symmetry, and rapid response times.
The feasibility study has identified FCR-N, enhanced FCR-D, and FFR as viable reserve product opportunities. FCR-N requires symmetric upward and downward regulation sustained for 60 minutes. FFR demands the rapid inverter response that battery systems provide, with activation windows spanning 0.7 to 1.3 seconds.
Nordic Reserve Participation Projects Significant EBITDA Contribution
VivoPower indicated the battery energy storage initiative could generate annual EBITDA contributions approaching $4 million. This projection derives from capacity payment revenue across three distinct Nordic reserve product categories. The estimate remains contingent upon multiple factors including market pricing dynamics, capital requirements, regulatory approvals, and successful prequalification processes.
The revenue projection utilizes current 2025 and 2026 Nordic capacity clearing price benchmarks. Revenue would accumulate through pay-for-availability compensation structures. Additional activation payments would supplement capacity revenues when grid operators dispatch reserve services.
The Mo i Rana location enjoys advantages from Norway’s NO4 power pricing zone. Average day-ahead electricity prices in 2025 approximated $0.009 per kWh. This rate represents substantial savings compared to southern Norwegian regions and continental European markets, where pricing ranged between $0.05 and $0.077 per kWh.
Energy Storage Infrastructure Designed to Enhance AI Workload Support
VivoPower emphasized that battery infrastructure could optimize the facility’s operational characteristics for artificial intelligence tenants. AI model training and inference applications generate significant fluctuations in electrical demand. Battery energy storage systems can buffer these variations and deliver smoother grid interaction profiles.
The installation would additionally strengthen ride-through capabilities during brief grid disturbances. Battery-coupled inverters provide mitigation against voltage fluctuations, transient events, and network topology changes. This resilience proves particularly valuable for extended training operations and mission-critical inference deployments.
VivoPower’s evaluation will examine grid capacity margins, switchgear infrastructure, transformer specifications, protection system architecture, and settlement mechanism design. The analysis will incorporate Statnett prequalification requirements and potential tenant service level implications. Final investment authorization requires Board approval, tenant engagement, and compliance with Norwegian regulatory frameworks.

The post VivoPower (VIVO) Stock Maintains Momentum After Norway Battery Storage Feasibility Study appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Syntiant Corporation submitted documentation for a public offering on the Nasdaq exchange with ticker symbol “SYTN”
The firm specializes in energy-efficient artificial intelligence processors for on-device machine learning applications
Major investors include Intel Capital, Microsoft Global Finance, and Knowles Corporation
First quarter 2026 financials show $64.5M in revenue against a $20.9M net loss
The offering contributes to an expanding wave of artificial intelligence companies entering public markets
Syntiant, a developer of artificial intelligence chips and software solutions, has submitted its initial public offering documents to list on the Nasdaq stock exchange, capitalizing on sustained investor enthusiasm for AI technologies.
Syntiant, an Intel and Microsoft-backed edge-AI chip/software maker, filed for IPO.
The company makes ultra-low-power AI chips and software for on-device AI in earbuds, wearables, and industrial systems.
Q1 results:
Revenue: $64.5M vs $66.6M YoY
Net loss: $26.2M vs $16.8M YoY… pic.twitter.com/9VlB4iBCK0
— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) July 6, 2026
Headquartered in Irvine, California, the enterprise intends to begin trading with the ticker “SYTN” on the Nasdaq Global Market. Financial terms regarding the offering size remain undisclosed at this time.
Established in 2017 by a quartet of tech entrepreneurs, Syntiant engineers energy-efficient AI processing units specifically architected to execute machine-learning algorithms directly within devices, eliminating dependence on cloud infrastructure.
The organization characterizes its technological approach as “physical AI” — terminology referring to localized sensing and neural computation that empowers devices to detect and react to environmental stimuli without external connectivity.
Applications for its processor technology span wireless earbuds, wearable technology, industrial machinery, and automotive systems.
Investment Partners and Funding Sources
Syntiant counts Intel Capital, the corporate venture division of Intel, among its principal financial supporters. Additional stakeholders include Microsoft Global Finance and Knowles Corporation, as detailed in the company’s securities filing.
In a strategic acquisition completed in December 2024, Syntiant purchased Knowles Corporation’s consumer MEMS microphone division. This business unit manufactures microphones utilized in mobile phones, wireless earbuds, and various consumer electronics.
The enterprise delivers what it characterizes as an integrated, ultra-low-power ecosystem. This architecture merges neural decision processing units, sensor products, and artificial intelligence models enabling clients to implement functionality locally while strategically leveraging cloud resources.
Financial Performance
During the opening quarter of 2026, Syntiant recorded a net loss totaling $20.9 million against revenues of $64.5 million.
This performance contrasts with the corresponding period one year prior, when the company posted a $14.1 million net loss on $66.6 million in revenue. The data reflects a modest revenue decline accompanied by expanding losses on an annual comparison basis.
The underwriting syndicate for the public offering includes Citigroup, BofA Securities, UBS Investment Bank, and Needham & Company as lead managers. Additional participating firms comprise Stifel, Cantor, KeyBanc Capital Markets, Craig-Hallum, Rosenblatt, Roth Capital Partners, and Wolfe | Nomura Alliance.
Market Environment for Public Offerings
Syntiant’s public market debut forms part of an accelerating trend of artificial intelligence companies accessing public equity markets throughout the current year.
J.P. Morgan analysts project that equity issuance exceeding $260 billion will materialize in 2026, as corporations seek to capitalize on strengthening investor sentiment.
The filing arrives amid continued public market investor interest in semiconductor and artificial intelligence enterprises.
Syntiant has yet to announce a preliminary price range or trading commencement date for its shares.
The post Syntiant (SYTN) Pursues Nasdaq Listing as Intel and Microsoft-Backed AI Chip Maker Goes Public appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
SK Hynix commits 11.9 trillion won for advanced EUV lithography equipment from ASML
Equipment delivery scheduled for completion by December 2027
Company launching 177.9 million American Depositary Shares on Nasdaq with July 10 trading debut
Expected net proceeds from the public offering total approximately $28 billion
ASML shares surged roughly 4% following the announcement amid broader market gains

South Korean memory chip powerhouse SK Hynix has unveiled plans for a substantial equipment investment as its Nasdaq listing approaches. Recent regulatory filings reveal the semiconductor manufacturer intends to allocate approximately 11.9 trillion won — equivalent to roughly $8.6 billion — toward purchasing EUV lithography scanners from Dutch equipment maker ASML (ASML).
Shares of ASML gained approximately 4% during Monday’s session after the filing became public, bolstered by a general market rebound following the prior week’s downturn.
This strategic purchase grants SK Hynix entry to the world’s most sophisticated semiconductor manufacturing technology. EUV equipment creates microscopic circuit designs on silicon substrates at the nanometer level, which is essential for manufacturing next-generation microchips.
ASML maintains a global monopoly on commercial EUV machine production and distribution. Its primary clientele consists of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSM), Intel (INTC), and Samsung Electronics (SSNLF).
SK Hynix anticipates receiving the complete EUV system shipment by December 2027.
Public Offering Breakdown
On the same day, SK Hynix filed documentation with the SEC outlining its intention to issue 177.9 million American Depositary Shares. Each ADS corresponds to one-tenth of a common stock share, with individual shares carrying a par value of 5,000 won.
The semiconductor company anticipates commencing Nasdaq trading operations on July 10. Management projects net proceeds of roughly $28 billion from this public offering.
SK Hynix presently maintains a market capitalization near $29.61 billion with a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.96x.
The manufacturer derives approximately 60-70% of total revenue from DRAM products while NAND contributes 30-35%. With a 33% DRAM market share and 21% NAND market share, the company ranks as the world’s second-largest provider in both categories.
Financial Metrics Analysis
SK Hynix achieves a GF Score of 86 out of 100, a comprehensive measurement evaluating financial stability, profitability metrics, growth trajectory, valuation, and market momentum. The company demonstrates an interest coverage ratio of 92.87 alongside an Altman Z-score of 20.94.
However, one red flag exists in the financial data. The company’s Beneish M-Score registers at -0.94, triggering alerts regarding potential financial statement manipulation. Industry analysts generally consider scores exceeding -1.78 as warranting additional scrutiny.
SK Hynix broadened its NAND market presence during 2021 through the acquisition of Intel’s NAND operations.
ASML’s latest-generation EUV equipment, declared production-ready earlier this calendar year, carries an approximate price tag of $400 million — representing double the cost of previous EUV iterations.
Corporate records indicate zero insider trading transactions at SK Hynix throughout the preceding 12-month period.
The post SK Hynix Commits $8.6 Billion to ASML’s Advanced Chip Equipment Ahead of Nasdaq Debut appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Cloud infrastructure expenditure worldwide surged to $129B in Q1 2026, marking a 35% annual increase
Microsoft’s Azure platform posted 40% revenue growth YOY during Q3 FY2026, capturing approximately 21% of global cloud market
Jefferies maintains Buy recommendation with $675 target price on MSFT; Citizens reaffirms Market Outperform with $550 objective
Shares have declined roughly 20% year-to-date, currently valued at 20.25x forward earnings versus sector mean of 24.61x
Wall Street consensus from 50 analysts shows Strong Buy, with mean price target at $552.27 suggesting approximately 43% potential gain
Shares of Microsoft (MSFT) have retreated approximately 20% during 2026, currently hovering near $386.74. This downturn has compressed the forward price-to-earnings ratio to 20.25x — substantially beneath the technology sector’s 24.61x average. Despite the stock’s weakness, the company’s core operations continue demonstrating robust expansion, capturing significant attention from financial analysts.
Jefferies maintains its Buy recommendation on MSFT with an ambitious $675 price objective. The investment firm emphasized Microsoft as a premier opportunity within the ongoing cloud computing expansion cycle, specifically citing Azure’s accelerating market penetration as justification for their optimistic stance.
Worldwide cloud infrastructure investments totaled $129 billion during Q1 2026, representing a 35% year-over-year surge. Major technology companies have substantially increased their capital spending blueprints for 2026 from approximately $600 billion to roughly $750 billion — a remarkable 67% escalation — while early 2027 forecasts already approach the $1 trillion threshold.
Azure stands positioned as a primary beneficiary of this trend. During Microsoft’s third fiscal quarter of 2026, Azure revenues expanded 40% compared to the prior year, exceeding Wall Street projections. The platform now commands approximately 21% of worldwide cloud infrastructure services, ranking second only to Amazon Web Services. Management indicates current customer demand consistently surpasses available infrastructure capacity.
The company’s Q3 FY2026 performance demonstrated strength throughout all segments. Consolidated revenues advanced 18% reaching $82.9 billion. Operating profits increased 20% to $38.4 billion, while net earnings surged 23% to $31.8 billion — translating to $4.27 per diluted share.
Microsoft Cloud revenues totaled $54.5 billion, reflecting 29% growth. Commercial remaining performance obligations nearly doubled with a 99% increase to $627 billion — signaling substantial future revenues already contracted.
The Intelligent Cloud division generated 30% growth reaching $34.7 billion. Productivity and Business Processes revenue expanded 17% to $35.0 billion. The More Personal Computing segment declined 1% to $13.2 billion.
Wall Street Perspectives
Citizens reaffirmed its Market Outperform rating alongside a $550 price objective on July 7. The firm highlighted CEO Satya Nadella’s artificial intelligence sovereignty initiatives and anticipates revenue acceleration to 17% during FY2026 from 15% in FY2025. Operating margins are forecast to widen from 46% to 47%.
Benchmark analyst Yi Fu Lee launched coverage during April 2026 with a Buy rating, characterizing Microsoft as a “pivotal force in AI” possessing data advantages competitors cannot easily duplicate — referencing 1 billion Windows installations, 300 million Office subscriptions, plus LinkedIn, GitHub, and Azure’s extensive enterprise presence.
Wedbush analyst Dan Ives maintains an Outperform designation with a $575 target, asserting Wall Street consistently underappreciates Azure’s expansion momentum.
Among 50 analysts providing coverage, the prevailing consensus registers as Strong Buy. The average price objective of $552.27 suggests approximately 43% appreciation potential from present trading levels.
Growth Catalysts and Initiatives
Microsoft executed a two-decade power supply agreement with Chevron’s Energy Forge One division to construct Project Kilby throughout West Texas — an infrastructure project anticipated to generate approximately 2.67 gigawatts supporting Microsoft’s data center operations.
The technology giant collaborates with Mayo Clinic developing an artificial intelligence platform for healthcare applications utilizing de-identified patient information, concentrating on enhanced early detection capabilities and personalized treatment protocols.
Microsoft’s next quarterly report arrives July 29. Wall Street anticipates Q4 FY2026 earnings per share of $4.21, compared with $3.65 during the comparable period — representing 15.3% expansion. Full-year FY2026 consensus estimates stand at $16.76 per share, advancing from $13.64 in FY2025.
Italy’s competition authority recently launched an inquiry examining Microsoft regarding potentially anticompetitive conduct connected to Microsoft 365 pricing adjustments associated with Copilot and Designer feature integration.
The post Microsoft (MSFT) Stock Poised for 43% Rally as Azure Cloud Dominance Accelerates appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR
UK FCA warned that autonomous AI agents could transform retail financial services by automating financial decisions and transactions.
The report identified tokenized money and systemic stablecoins as potential settlement infrastructure for AI-driven financial systems.
Regulators proposed seven recommendations, including trusted agentic finance protocols and expansion of the FCA AI Lab.
Research showed that 20% of UK adults are willing to let AI make financial decisions on their behalf.
Sheldon Mills said firms must remain accountable for AI actions and stressed that a human should always bear responsibility.
The UK FCA outlined a new regulatory direction as autonomous AI rapidly reshapes retail financial services. The UK FCA said AI agents could soon manage financial decisions without constant human involvement. The report also identified tokenized money and stablecoins as possible settlement tools for automated financial systems.
UK FCA outlines framework for agentic finance
The UK FCA released a 147-page report examining AI’s growing influence across retail financial markets. The report described a transition from human decisions toward continuous automated financial services. It also urged regulators to prepare for faster AI adoption across the financial sector.
Sheldon Mills led the review before leaving the regulator after eight years of service. He wrote, “The central shift is from human-led, episodic financial activity towards services that are AI-enabled, continuous and delegated.” The UK FCA said this transformation already exceeds previous regulatory expectations.
The report explained that modern AI systems now move beyond recommendations into direct decision-making. It noted that more than 20 frontier AI models have launched since late 2025. The FCA believes autonomous financial agents will become more common across consumer financial services.
The agency proposed seven recommendations to support responsible innovation and stronger oversight. One recommendation encourages trusted protocols that support agentic finance across regulated markets. Another recommendation expands the FCA AI Lab to support future financial system development.
Tokenized money supports automated financial services
UK FCA linked autonomous finance with programmable settlement infrastructure and faster transaction execution. The report said traditional banking systems cannot always match machine transaction speeds. Therefore, tokenized bank deposits and systemic stablecoins could support automated financial activity.
The review explained that programmable assets enable instant settlement between autonomous financial systems. These assets also reduce delays caused by traditional multi-day payment processes. The UK FCA said faster settlement could improve machine-driven portfolio and cash management.
The report also highlighted growing governance concerns surrounding autonomous financial decisions. Industry participants questioned how firms should assign responsibility when AI acts independently. One executive suggested the industry may require “a Turing test” to separate human intent from algorithmic behavior.
UK FCA stresses accountability as AI adoption accelerates
The UK FCA emphasized that governance must develop alongside increasingly capable AI systems. The regulator said firms remain responsible for decisions made through autonomous technology. The report also examined consumer confidence as AI gains greater financial authority.
Research cited by the UK FCA found that 20% of UK adults would allow AI to make financial decisions. That finding reflects growing public acceptance of automated financial management. However, the regulator expects firms to maintain strong oversight throughout AI deployment.
Emma Banymandhub, CEO of The Payments Association, welcomed the review and supported stronger governance standards.
She said, “AI has enormous potential for financial services, but realising that potential will depend on strong governance.” She added that accountability and consumer trust remain essential as adoption continues.
Mills also reinforced personal responsibility for AI systems before the report’s publication. He told the Financial Times, “You need a human on the hook for what they’re doing.” The UK FCA plans to use these findings to shape future financial regulation.
The post UK FCA Warns Banks on Autonomous AI Agents appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Major financial institutions including JPMorgan, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and PNC Financial are reportedly negotiating to acquire Fiserv’s STAR debit card network.
The STAR Network facilitates debit, ATM, and digital commerce transactions for more than 115 million cardholders spanning over 2,800 financial institutions.
FISV shares ended regular trading Monday at $51.78, declining 1.05%, before surging 7.49% to $55.66 in extended-hours trading.
This possible divestiture represents part of a strategic restructuring effort following a challenging period that saw FISV decline approximately 23% year-to-date alongside significant executive turnover.
The transaction remains unfinalized — several prospective acquirers have withdrawn from negotiations citing concerns about potential regulatory scrutiny and merchant opposition.
Shares of Fiserv (FISV) concluded Monday’s trading session at $51.78, registering a 1.05% decline, before experiencing a substantial 7.49% surge to $55.66 during after-hours activity following a Reuters exclusive revealing the company’s pursuit of a buyer for its STAR debit card network.
Reuters reported that Fiserv has engaged in exploratory discussions with several banking giants, including JPMorgan, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and PNC Financial Services Group regarding a prospective transaction. An individual with knowledge of the negotiations verified the ongoing talks while emphasizing that no definitive agreement exists and the discussions may ultimately dissolve without a transaction.
The STAR Network functions as critical financial infrastructure that facilitates the routing of debit card, ATM, and online payment transactions among financial institutions, retailers, and customers. The network supports over 115 million debit cardholders and connects more than 2,800 banking institutions nationwide.
The Wall Street Journal, which originally broke the story, observed that acquisition by a major banking institution could potentially enable the purchaser to circumvent federal restrictions on debit card interchange fees — presenting a strategically attractive opportunity for large-scale financial institutions.
Strategic Rationale Behind the Potential Sale
This prospective asset sale emerges as Fiserv navigates a comprehensive restructuring initiative after experiencing significant headwinds. The company’s shares have declined roughly 23% since the beginning of the year, and organizational upheaval involving executive leadership transitions has undermined investor sentiment. The stock’s 52-week trading range extends from $47.04 to $70.40, with current pricing positioned near the lower boundary.
Fiserv’s current market capitalization approximates $27.61 billion. Throughout the trailing twelve-month period, shares have tumbled approximately 70% from peak valuations, demonstrating an extended downturn.
Should the STAR Network transaction materialize, it would constitute a significant strategic pivot — divesting essential payments processing infrastructure to generate capital for alternative investment opportunities.
Regulatory Concerns Deter Some Prospective Buyers
The deal hasn’t attracted universal interest among potential acquirers. According to reports, certain corporations that evaluated the STAR Network opportunity have concluded the acquisition wouldn’t align with their strategic objectives. Their primary apprehension: purchasing infrastructure that processes debit transactions for millions of consumers could trigger significant opposition from legislators, regulatory agencies, and retail merchants.
This regulatory uncertainty compounds the complexity of any potential transaction timeline, explaining why sources emphasized the negotiations could still terminate without reaching completion.
Separately on Monday, Fiserv published its June Small Business Index, independent of the STAR Network developments. The report indicated small business revenues increased 2.4% on a year-over-year basis in June, propelled by elevated average transaction sizes and recovering retail expenditure patterns.
The index additionally highlighted stabilizing consumer spending patterns despite ongoing inflationary pressures — representing a marginally encouraging development for a company that has otherwise endured a challenging twelve-month period.
According to Benzinga Edge, FISV stock currently exhibits unfavorable price trend ratings across short-, medium-, and long-term timeframes.
The post Fiserv (FISV) Stock Surges After-Hours on STAR Network Sale Negotiations appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Bank of America upgraded IBM’s price target to $330 from $315, maintaining a Buy recommendation based on anticipated Q2 strength and potential 2026 guidance increases.
Shares of IBM surged 3.5% on Monday, reaching an intraday peak of $300.82 before settling at $299.58.
The investment bank positioned IBM as the “leader in the quantum category,” enhancing confidence in the company’s future growth trajectory.
IBM’s Q1 performance exceeded expectations with earnings per share of $1.91 versus the anticipated $1.81, while revenue grew 9.5% compared to the previous year.
The tech giant unveiled updated z17 and LinuxONE 5 systems on July 7, designed to address data center constraints and operational efficiency challenges.
Shares of International Business Machines received a boost on Monday as Bank of America Securities lifted its price objective to $330 from the previous $315 mark, while maintaining its Buy recommendation. The stock rallied 3.5% during trading, peaking at $300.82 before closing the day at $299.58—a notable increase from the previous session’s close of $289.52.
Trading activity reached approximately 7 million shares, falling marginally short of IBM’s typical daily volume of 7.3 million shares.
Bank of America’s optimistic outlook stems from expectations of robust Q2 performance, an enhanced software revenue composition, and the likelihood that IBM may revise its 2026 projections upward. The firm’s designation of IBM as the frontrunner in quantum computing technology resonates strongly as institutional interest in this emerging sector intensifies.
Supporting this narrative with tangible achievements, IBM collaborated with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Cleveland Clinic to deliver groundbreaking quantum computing calculations related to fusion materials—representing a significant practical application rather than theoretical promises.
Additionally, IBM unveiled a strategic cybersecurity collaboration with Deloitte and Red Hat, designed to equip enterprises with advanced defenses against automated cyber threats. This initiative reinforces the company’s position in enterprise software and security solutions.
Wall Street sentiment toward the stock remains predominantly positive. Among 26 analysts tracking IBM, 16 maintain Buy recommendations, one assigns a Strong Buy, while nine hold neutral positions. The average price target across analysts stands at $306.47, with Citigroup expressing the most optimistic view at $375.
Contrasting perspectives include Wolfe Research, which downgraded the stock to Peer Perform in late June, and Susquehanna, which initiated coverage with a Neutral stance. Oppenheimer maintains an Outperform rating but adjusted its target downward from $380 to $320 in April.
Strong Q1 Results Support Bullish Thesis
IBM’s latest quarterly performance provided substantial support for the positive outlook. The company delivered first-quarter earnings of $1.91 per share, surpassing analyst expectations of $1.81 by $0.10. Revenue reached $15.92 billion, beating the $15.60 billion forecast and representing a 9.5% year-over-year expansion.
The company achieved a return on equity of 37.23% with a net margin of 15.61%. Wall Street analysts project full-year earnings per share of $12.40. IBM’s upcoming earnings announcement is set for July 22, where market participants will scrutinize whether artificial intelligence-related demand is materializing in financial results.
IBM also increased its quarterly dividend payment to $1.69 per share from $1.68. This translates to an annual dividend of $6.76, offering shareholders a 2.3% yield.
Latest Hardware Innovations Address Infrastructure Challenges
On July 7, IBM introduced enhanced configurations for its z17 and LinuxONE 5 platforms, marking the first time rack mount options have been available across the entire Z and LinuxONE product line.
These updated systems accommodate up to 82 cores and 18TB of memory, delivering approximately 20% more processing cores. The innovations target enterprises grappling with limited data center capacity—CBRE research indicates vacancy rates have reached historic lows, with rental costs exceeding $400 per kilowatt-hour monthly in certain markets.
The z17 single frame and rack mount variants enable customers to integrate IBM hardware alongside third-party equipment, providing greater deployment versatility. The LinuxONE Rockhopper 5 Express, occupying 18U of rack space, serves as an economical option for organizations with lighter workload requirements.
Both z17 and LinuxONE Rockhopper 5 systems incorporate post-quantum cryptography capabilities as a standard feature.
The post IBM (IBM) Stock Surges 3.5% Following BofA’s Bullish Price Target Upgrade appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
Crinetics Pharmaceuticals shares surged 100% following Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ $10 billion cash acquisition announcement
Rivian Automotive declined 9% after revealing plans to sell 75 million shares to pay down federal debt
Micron Technology slipped 5% amid concerns over potential memory chip oversupply from increased Samsung and SK Hynix capital expenditure
Fiserv climbed as much as 8% following reports of potential STAR Network sale negotiations with leading banks
Semiconductor and AI-related equities experienced broad declines, with Intel falling 4.4% and Samsung dropping nearly 7%
Semiconductor and artificial intelligence stocks experienced significant premarket declines on Tuesday, July 7, signaling a swift reversal of Monday’s positive momentum.
The downturn began overnight with Samsung Electronics. Despite projecting a substantial profit increase, the South Korean technology giant saw its shares plunge nearly 7% as investors responded negatively to the earnings outlook.
This weakness quickly cascaded into American markets. Intel Corporation declined 4.4% while Micron Technology retreated 5.8% during premarket hours.
Additional declines were observed in Advanced Micro Devices, Corning, Marvell Technology, and Super Micro Computer. Each of these companies maintains significant exposure to the artificial intelligence market.
Nasdaq futures declined while Dow futures demonstrated greater resilience. Market participants appeared to be reassessing AI stock valuations in anticipation of key economic releases scheduled for later this week.
Crinetics Pharmaceuticals Soars on Vertex Acquisition
Crinetics Pharmaceuticals emerged as the session’s most dramatic winner. The stock rocketed 100% higher, trading at $83.66 during premarket activity.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals announced an agreement to acquire Crinetics at $85 per share in an entirely cash transaction. The deal values the company’s equity at approximately $10 billion.
Transaction completion is anticipated in the third quarter of 2026. Vertex highlighted that the acquisition would provide immediate revenue through Palsonify’s commercial launch, a therapy designed for acromegaly treatment.
Vertex executives also emphasized pipeline candidate atumelnant as representing a potential multi-billion-dollar revenue opportunity. The companies project that their combined product portfolio will deliver over $5 billion in peak yearly sales.
Fiserv shares also advanced, climbing between 6% and 8%. The Wall Street Journal disclosed that JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and PNC Financial Services have engaged in discussions to acquire Fiserv’s STAR Network payment processing division.
Rivian Slides on Equity Offering, Micron Pressured by Oversupply Concerns
Rivian Automotive ranked among the session’s weakest performers. The electric vehicle manufacturer’s shares dropped approximately 9% following disclosure of a 75 million Class A share offering.
The capital raised will support general corporate needs, with a portion designated to retire a $4.5 billion government-backed loan from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Despite the share dilution, Rivian provided second-quarter revenue projections exceeding analyst expectations. Management forecast revenue between $1.55 billion and $1.65 billion, surpassing the $1.44 billion Wall Street consensus estimate.
Micron Technology declined roughly 5%. Market concerns centered on aggressive capital deployment by Samsung and SK Hynix, which analysts fear could create memory chip oversupply conditions and depress pricing.
SpaceX edged down 1.3% in premarket trading. The aerospace company was scheduled to enter the Nasdaq 100 index before Tuesday’s opening bell.
Stock index futures presented a mixed picture. The day’s trading dynamics illustrated a market balancing enthusiasm over a major biotechnology acquisition against headwinds facing semiconductor and electric vehicle sectors.
The post Market Update: Crinetics Pharmaceuticals Surges 100% as Rivian (RIVN) and Micron (MU) Stocks Tumble appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
SpaceX has announced “Starmind,” an ambitious project to deploy up to one million AI-processing satellites in orbit
Unlike Starlink, which transmits data, Starmind satellites will perform actual AI computations in space
Initial prototype launches are scheduled for early 2027, with full-scale deployment beginning in 2028
SpaceX shares declined 1% to $160.42 on Monday following the announcement
According to SpaceX, orbital locations could offer the most cost-effective AI computing infrastructure within two to three years
In a groundbreaking announcement, SpaceX has revealed Starmind, an ambitious initiative to establish an artificial intelligence computing network directly in Earth’s orbit. The disclosure was made through a video published on SpaceX’s official website, with confirmation from Elon Musk.
Elon confirms “Starmind” will be the official name of @SpaceX‘s AI satellite constellation.
Earlier this year, SpaceX filed a request with the FCC to launch and operate a constellation of 1 million AI satellites.
SpaceX’s AI1 satellite: https://t.co/igDiXMDfgS pic.twitter.com/BrssGvX6Ub
— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) June 23, 2026
The Starmind project represents a distinct venture from Starlink. While Starlink functions as a communications network that transmits data across Earth’s surface, Starmind satellites will feature onboard AI processors capable of executing computations in space. Once processed, the data would be transmitted back to users on Earth from anywhere in the constellation.
Documentation filed with the Federal Communications Commission reveals SpaceX’s intention to deploy as many as one million AI-processing satellites.
The Rationale Behind Space-Based Computing
Ground-based data centers face mounting challenges. Escalating electricity costs, water consumption for cooling, limited real estate availability, and community resistance have created significant barriers to expanding terrestrial infrastructure.
Orbital deployment presents unique advantages. The sun provides constant, unlimited energy, the vacuum environment naturally dissipates heat from processors, and regulatory hurdles like zoning restrictions don’t exist.
During a June presentation, Musk projected that space-based facilities would become the most economically efficient location for AI computing operations within a two to three-year timeframe.
SpaceX currently leases terrestrial AI computing infrastructure to major clients including Google and Anthropic, generating billions in annual revenue. Starmind represents an expansion of this business model into the orbital domain.
Deployment Schedule and Technical Specifications
The initial phase involves launching two demonstration satellites, designated AI1, in early 2027. Mass manufacturing is planned to commence by late 2027 at a dedicated production center named Gigasat.
Large-scale orbital deployment operations are projected to begin throughout 2028.
The Starship rocket system plays a crucial role in this strategy. A single Starship mission can transport between 30 and 50 AI satellites, effectively delivering the computing power of multiple server racks with each launch.
Each Starmind satellite will be equipped with expansive solar panel arrays and utilize the vacuum of space for thermal management. Musk has indicated that the engineering required for AI satellites is less complex than that needed for Starlink units.
If successfully implemented at the proposed scale, Starmind could provide commercial customers with orbital AI inference capabilities featuring response times in the millisecond range.
Market Performance and Starlink Operations
SpaceX shares ended Monday’s trading session at $160.42, representing a 1% decline, after reaching an intraday peak of $167.90. In contrast, the S&P 500 advanced 0.7% while the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.3% during the same period.
Currently, SpaceX operates approximately 10,000 Starlink satellites in orbit, providing service to over 10 million subscribers worldwide. The Starlink division generates billions in yearly revenue while maintaining profit margins exceeding 60%.
The company recently decommissioned 260 first-generation Starlink satellites, a figure that rivals Amazon’s entire current orbital fleet. Amazon has deployed more than 300 satellites to date and expects to commence commercial broadband operations within the year.
SpaceX currently executes more than half of all orbital launch missions globally.
The post SpaceX Starmind: Elon Musk’s Ambitious Plan to Deploy AI Servers in Orbit appeared first on Blockonomi.

Quick Summary
SanDisk shares declined approximately 6% during Tuesday’s premarket trading, adding to a severe 23% pullback spanning the last three sessions
Samsung’s announcement of an extraordinary 1,800% surge in Q2 operating profits triggered widespread profit-taking across the memory chip industry
Fellow memory manufacturers Micron and Western Digital experienced similar 6% declines as sector-wide weakness intensified
Despite the recent downturn, SanDisk maintains impressive year-to-date gains exceeding 635%, though currently trading 15.7% beneath its 20-day moving average
Wall Street analysts maintain optimistic outlooks — with Bank of America, Bernstein, and Citi each holding Buy/Outperform ratings and price targets reaching $3,000
Samsung unveiled blockbuster quarterly results. The market responded by selling — leaving SanDisk caught in the crossfire.
Shares of SanDisk (SNDK) were changing hands at approximately $1,652.12 during Tuesday’s premarket hours, representing a roughly 6% decline. This latest drop compounds a punishing three-session decline that has erased approximately 23% of the stock’s value. Despite this setback, SNDK remains up an impressive 635% for 2026.
The catalyst originated from South Korea. Samsung revealed preliminary second-quarter operating profit of 89.4 trillion won — approximately $58.4 billion — representing an astronomical 1,800% year-over-year surge fueled by robust AI chip demand. Despite these impressive figures, the stock tumbled 6.9%. A textbook sell-the-news event.
The negative sentiment quickly spread across American exchanges. Both Micron and Western Digital experienced similar 6% declines in sympathy trades, as investors retreated from memory chip equities broadly. Nasdaq futures declined 1.11% during the same timeframe.
SanDisk’s remarkable ascent throughout the past twelve months — soaring more than 3,750% — has positioned it among the most impressive performers across U.S. equities. Such extraordinary gains inevitably generate substantial unrealized profits, and even minor shifts in market sentiment can trigger rapid profit-taking.
Critical Technical Indicators
The stock maintains comfortable distance above its long-term trend indicators. SNDK currently trades 41.5% above its 100-day simple moving average of $1,163.00 and 131.2% above its 200-day SMA of $711.62. However, short-term momentum has noticeably weakened.
The 50-day simple moving average at $1,625.76 represents a crucial threshold. SNDK currently hovers just 1.2% above this level — a decisive close beneath it could trigger additional downside pressure. The relative strength index registers at 46.93, indicating neutral momentum without reaching oversold conditions.
Resistance emerges near $1,861 while support consolidates around $1,514.50.
This isn’t unprecedented territory for SNDK in 2026. The equity endured a four-session losing streak during May and weathered a five-day decline in March before rebounding strongly on both occasions.
Wall Street Perspective and Forward Outlook
Sell-side analysts remain undeterred. Bank of America reaffirmed its Buy rating on July 1 while elevating its price objective to $2,500. Bernstein retained its Outperform stance on June 30 and increased its target to $3,000. Citi similarly maintained its Buy rating with a $2,500 price target on June 25.
The Street consensus registers as Buy, featuring an average price objective of $1,755.75.
The upcoming earnings report, anticipated for August 13, represents the next significant catalyst. Analysts project earnings per share of $33.38, up dramatically from just 29 cents in the comparable year-ago period, on revenues of $8.24 billion compared with $1.90 billion previously.
The stock currently commands a valuation of approximately 59.6 times forward earnings — representing a premium multiple that investors have willingly accepted given the company’s growth prospects.
Another development meriting attention: memory chip manufacturer SK Hynix plans to debut on U.S. exchanges this Friday, potentially introducing additional volatility throughout the sector this week.
The post SanDisk (SNDK) Shares Plunge 6% as Samsung’s Blockbuster Results Trigger Memory Stock Rout appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR
Tesla exceeded Wall Street expectations by producing 451758 vehicles during the second quarter.
Tesla shares declined after the production update as investors remained concerned about profitability.
Investors shifted their attention from production growth to vehicle margins and overall financial performance.
Elon Musk’s long-term strategy around robotaxis, artificial intelligence, and autonomous driving remains central to Tesla’s valuation.
The upcoming earnings report is expected to provide clearer insight into Tesla’s margins, cash flow, and future growth outlook.
Tesla (TSLA)reported stronger-than-expected second-quarter production, yet its shares declined after the update. The mixed reaction highlighted persistent concerns about profitability despite improving vehicle output. Investors now await the company’s earnings report for clearer evidence of financial strength.
Strong Production Eases Demand Concerns
Tesla produced 451,758 vehicles during the second quarter, beating most Wall Street expectations. The result suggested customer demand remained stronger than many analysts anticipated. The production update also eased concerns after a weaker first quarter.
The stronger figure supported the view that Tesla regained production momentum during the quarter. However, the market quickly shifted attention beyond headline production numbers. Investors focused on whether higher output would improve financial performance.
Production growth alone did not convince the market about Tesla’s long-term outlook. Instead, investors questioned whether discounts reduced profitability across vehicle sales. That concern limited enthusiasm despite the better-than-expected production result.
Tesla Stock Falls Despite Production Surprise
Tesla shares fell after the production announcement despite the positive surprise. The market reaction showed investors wanted stronger evidence than higher vehicle production. Many analysts believe revenue quality remains more important than delivery volume.
The company can deliver more vehicles while generating weaker profits through aggressive price reductions. That possibility remains a major concern for shareholders. Strong production therefore failed to remove questions about operating margins.
Tesla continues to trade at a premium compared with traditional automakers. That valuation creates higher expectations for earnings growth and future expansion. Investors therefore expect exceptional financial performance rather than ordinary automotive results.
Future Growth Remains the Central Focus
Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk continues to promote autonomous driving, robotaxis, artificial intelligence, energy storage, and humanoid robots. Those businesses remain central to the long-term investment case for Tesla. Supporters believe those technologies justify the company’s premium valuation.
Bullish investors argue the latest production figures prove Tesla recovered from earlier weakness. They believe the first quarter represented a temporary slowdown instead of lasting demand problems. The stronger production data strengthened that argument.
Bearish investors maintain Tesla must prove those vehicles generated healthy profits. They expect upcoming earnings to reveal margin trends and cash flow performance. Management commentary on pricing, robotaxis, and autonomous driving could also influence future sentiment.
The upcoming earnings report now represents the next major catalyst for Tesla shares. Investors expect updates on gross margins, operating income, and free cash flow. Those results will determine whether Tesla can support its premium valuation after the stronger quarter.
The post Tesla Stock Drops Despite Q2 Production Beat as Concerns Deepen appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR
META shares have declined despite Jim Cramer’s repeated support for the company’s long-term AI investment strategy.
Jim Cramer argued that META’s heavy capital spending is necessary to defend its competitive position in artificial intelligence.
META fell 5.5% on June 5 after reports suggested the company explored raising capital for AI investments.
The stock dropped another 2.9% on July 2 following analyst comments that weighed on investor sentiment.
Meta continues expanding its AI infrastructure despite ongoing market concerns over higher spending.
Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ) continues to face selling pressure despite strong support from CNBC host Jim Cramer. META has fallen sharply since Cramer argued the company deserved a higher valuation. However, market concerns about rising artificial intelligence spending have continued to weigh on sentiment.
Cramer defended Meta’s heavy AI spending
Jim Cramer repeatedly defended META as investors questioned its growing capital spending plans. He argued that the company needed aggressive investment to protect its leadership in social media. Cramer maintained that competitors continued increasing artificial intelligence spending across the industry.
He said, “Their stock is very down very big, because they’re really a lone wolf when it comes to spending.”
He also argued that META should trade higher instead of lower. Moreover, he linked the company’s investment strategy to its long-term competitive position.
Cramer also pointed to Mark Zuckerberg’s commitment to expanding artificial intelligence infrastructure. He noted that META traded in the $700 range before management announced higher spending. He added that the company lacked broad market support despite pursuing long-term growth opportunities.
Market concerns continued despite Cramer’s optimism
META declined 5.5% on June 5 after reports suggested the company explored raising capital through a stock offering. Financial Times reported that the funding could support future artificial intelligence investments. Consequently, investors reacted negatively to the additional spending expectations.
META also dropped another 2.9% on July 2 after analysts issued comments that pressured market sentiment. The decline extended the stock’s weak performance despite continued confidence from Cramer. Meanwhile, broader concerns over technology spending remained a key market theme.
Cramer defended Zuckerberg’s investment approach during earlier television appearances. He stated, “Meta should be up not down.” He also argued that spending on projects, including nuclear-powered energy initiatives, supported the company’s long-term strategy.
META remains focused on long-term investment strategy
META continues expanding artificial intelligence infrastructure under Zuckerberg’s leadership. The company believes stronger computing capacity will support future products and services. Therefore, management has maintained its aggressive investment plans despite market volatility.
Cramer also highlighted executives connected with large investment initiatives while discussing the company’s strategy. He praised leadership experience supporting sovereign wealth projects and infrastructure development. He argued that stronger market understanding could improve investor confidence in META.
META remains one of the largest technology companies investing heavily in artificial intelligence. However, recent share price declines show investors still question near-term spending levels. Even so, Cramer continues supporting META and expects stronger market recognition over time.
The post META Stock Slides as Cramer’s Upside View Faces Market Doubt appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
TeraWulf (WULF) shares climbed more than 7% following the announcement of a two-decade lease agreement with Anthropic, generating approximately $19 billion in contracted revenue.
The agreement encompasses 401 megawatts of critical IT capacity at TeraWulf’s Justified Data facility in Hawesville, Kentucky.
First-phase capacity deployment is projected for the latter half of 2027, reaching full operational status by early 2028.
Compass Point upgraded its WULF price target from $28 to $40, reaffirming its Buy recommendation.
Separately, TeraWulf disclosed the divestiture of its 50.1% interest in the Abernathy Joint Venture, unlocking approximately $450 million in capital.
Shares of TeraWulf (WULF) experienced a significant rally on July 6, 2026, following the company’s disclosure of a transformative partnership with Anthropic. By midday trading, the stock had climbed to approximately $22.74, representing a 7.3% gain, after launching the session at $24.21 and touching an intraday peak of $25.04.
The arrangement centers on a 20-year lease commitment at TeraWulf’s Justified Data facility located in Hawesville, Kentucky. This partnership is projected to yield approximately $19 billion in contracted revenue throughout the initial lease duration.
The facility is designed to accommodate roughly 401 megawatts of critical IT infrastructure. The first phase of capacity is anticipated to become operational during the second half of 2027, with complete buildout expected by the beginning of 2028.
Based on the contract structure, average annual lease payments are estimated at approximately $950 million, translating to roughly $2.37 million per megawatt annually. Anthropic’s financial commitments under the agreement are anticipated to carry investment-grade credit backing.
This partnership significantly expands TeraWulf’s contracted critical IT capacity portfolio from 522 MW to approximately 839 MW.
Analyst Upgrades: Compass Point Increases Target to $40
Following the announcement, Compass Point swiftly revised its price objective for WULF upward from $28 to $40 while maintaining its Buy rating. At the time of their analysis, shares were trading at $22.21, valuing TeraWulf at approximately $11 billion in market capitalization.
The positive sentiment extends beyond Compass Point. BofA Securities launched coverage with a Buy recommendation, while Bernstein initiated coverage with an Outperform rating, highlighting a robust backlog of approximately $24 billion in orders. Citizens JMP maintained its Market Outperform stance, emphasizing advancement at the Lake Mariner development.
Chief Executive Paul Prager stated that the Anthropic partnership “confirms our strategic direction and creates a sustained revenue foundation with a premier global AI enterprise.”
Strategic Divestiture: TeraWulf Exits Abernathy Venture for $450M
Concurrent with the Anthropic announcement, TeraWulf revealed its decision to divest its 50.1% ownership position in the Abernathy Joint Venture to an investor consortium led by Fluidstack. This transaction is expected to return approximately $450 million of previously invested capital to the company.
TeraWulf indicated its intention to reallocate these proceeds toward fully controlled AI infrastructure initiatives, aligning with its strategic shift away from cryptocurrency mining operations.
The organization has additionally been evaluating leveraged loan opportunities to finance AI infrastructure growth, following a $3.2 billion high-yield bond offering that received backing from Google.
Despite experiencing a 17% decline during the week preceding this announcement, WULF stock had generated an impressive 303% return over the preceding twelve months.
The Hawesville campus features engineering specifications targeting a power usage effectiveness ratio of approximately 1.20, supporting 401 MW of critical IT load from a total gross power capacity of 480 MW. Company leadership is projecting an 85% net operating income margin and capital expenditure requirements between $10 million and $12 million per megawatt, with final costs contingent upon the specific computing hardware deployed at the location.
The post TeraWulf (WULF) Shares Surge 7% Following Massive $19B Anthropic Partnership appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
On July 6, 2026, Vertex Pharmaceuticals announced an all-cash acquisition of Crinetics Pharmaceuticals
Shareholders of Crinetics will be paid $85 for each share they own
Total transaction value reaches $10 billion, with a net value of $8.8 billion when Crinetics’ cash reserves are factored in
The acquisition brings Vertex two significant oral endocrinology therapies: PALSONIFY and atumelnant, along with additional early-stage programs
Financing will come from Vertex’s cash reserves combined with a $4.5 billion bridge financing facility
On July 6, 2026, Vertex Pharmaceuticals entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Crinetics Pharmaceuticals through an all-cash transaction totaling $10 billion, representing a net purchase price of $8.8 billion when adjusting for Crinetics’ available cash.
Shareholders of Crinetics are set to receive a payment of $85 for every share held. Equity awards that have not yet vested will accelerate and convert to cash, whereas options significantly out of the money will be terminated without compensation.
The transaction has received unanimous backing from both companies’ boards of directors. Before completion, the deal must clear Hart-Scott-Rodino antitrust examination, international regulatory approvals, and secure approval from a majority of Crinetics shareholders.
Under specific conditions, a breakup fee of roughly $350 million would be triggered.
Vertex intends to fund the purchase through a combination of available cash on hand and fresh borrowing. The pharmaceutical giant has obtained commitments for a $4.5 billion unsecured bridge loan with a 364-day term from a consortium of banks, although the deal’s completion does not depend on securing this financing.
Strategic Assets Acquired by Vertex
This transaction delivers two critical oral endocrinology products to Vertex’s portfolio. PALSONIFY represents an FDA- and EMA-cleared once-daily oral medication for adult patients suffering from acromegaly. The therapy became commercially available in the United States in October 2025, marking the first oral treatment option approved for this medical condition.
Atumelnant is a once-daily oral medication that antagonizes the ACTH receptor, currently in advanced-stage clinical development for treating congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Additional Phase 2 studies are underway evaluating its efficacy in ACTH-dependent Cushing’s syndrome.
In addition to these marketed and late-stage products, Crinetics contributes a portfolio of earlier-stage programs focused on thyroid eye disease, Graves’ disease, and hyperparathyroidism.
Vertex’s Entry into Specialty Endocrinology
According to Vertex, this strategic acquisition establishes a foothold in the specialty endocrine therapeutic area where significant unmet medical needs persist. The company anticipates that this transaction could enhance revenue growth trajectories and strengthen its long-term profitability outlook.
Shares of VRTX were up 0.29% when the acquisition was publicly disclosed. The latest analyst recommendation on VRTX stands at Buy with a $550 price target.
Crinetics, based in San Diego, operated as a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in small-molecule, orally administered therapies for rare endocrine conditions. Following the transaction’s closure, Crinetics will operate as a fully owned subsidiary under Vertex.
Vertex currently maintains a market capitalization of approximately $134 billion.
The post Vertex Pharmaceuticals to Acquire Crinetics (CRNX) in $10 Billion Cash Deal appeared first on Blockonomi.

FUNToken continues to make access to its growing ecosystem more convenient by expanding the range of supported deposit assets. Users can now purchase $FUN using BONK (Solana) through the platform’s seamless deposit process.
With this latest addition, BONK (Solana) joins the growing list of supported assets, giving users another simple and efficient way to acquire $FUN. Deposits made with BONK are automatically converted into $FUN with 0% conversion fees, eliminating the need for manual token swaps or additional conversion steps.
A Simpler Way to Access the $FUN Ecosystem
FUNToken is committed to creating a frictionless experience for users entering the ecosystem. The addition of BONK (Solana) further expands the available deposit options while maintaining the same straightforward process that users have come to expect.
By depositing BONK (Solana), users receive $FUN automatically, allowing them to begin participating in the ecosystem without unnecessary complexity.
Key benefits include:
Automatic conversion from BONK (Solana) to $FUN
0% conversion fees
No manual token swaps required
A fast and seamless deposit experience
Expanding Access Through Greater Flexibility
As the FUNToken ecosystem continues to grow with $FUN mobile games, staking opportunities, community rewards, and new platform features, providing users with more ways to acquire $FUN remains a key priority.
The addition of BONK (Solana) reflects FUNToken’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility while giving users greater flexibility in how they participate in the ecosystem.
About FUNToken
FUNToken powers a growing Web3 gaming ecosystem designed to make digital rewards more accessible and engaging. Through $FUN Games, staking, community incentives, and an expanding range of supported assets, FUNToken continues to simplify how users participate in the ecosystem while creating more opportunities to play, earn, and engage.
The post FUNToken Expands Deposit Options with BONK (Solana) Support appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights
The energy giant upgraded its Q2 integrated gas production forecast to 610,000–650,000 boe/d from the previous 580,000–640,000 range.
SHEL shares advanced more than 3% during early London market hours after the announcement.
Gas trading performance is projected to significantly exceed first-quarter levels, while chemicals and products trading should match Q1 results.
The company anticipates a working capital inflow between $1 billion and $6 billion for Q2, a dramatic shift from the $11.2 billion outflow in Q1.
Ongoing Middle East tensions continue impacting Qatari operations, with Shell’s Pearl GTL facility remaining non-operational following a March incident.
Shell (SHEL) shares advanced over 3% during early Tuesday trading in London following the company’s decision to increase its second-quarter production and trading forecasts, providing greater visibility for investors before the July 30 earnings announcement.
The announcement propelled SHEL shares approximately 3.2% higher by mid-morning London time, substantially outpacing the broader European energy sector’s modest 0.3% advance.
The company revised its integrated gas production estimate upward to 610,000–650,000 barrels of oil equivalent daily (boe/d) for the second quarter, an increase from the previously communicated 580,000–640,000 boe/d range. Despite the upgrade, this figure remains considerably lower than the 909,000 boe/d achieved during the first quarter.
The production shortfall stems primarily from Middle Eastern operational challenges. Shell’s Pearl gas-to-liquids facility in Qatar ceased operations in March following an incident at Ras Laffan Industrial City that damaged one of its two production trains. The company anticipates repairs will require approximately twelve months to complete.
Qatar represents roughly 10% of Shell’s overall oil and gas production, which itself constitutes approximately 20% of the corporation’s worldwide output — totaling around 550,000 boe/d from that geographical area.
LNG liquefaction volume guidance also received an upward adjustment to 7.4 million–7.8 million metric tons for the period, increased from prior projections of 6.8–7.4 million tons, though remaining beneath the 7.9 million tons achieved in the first quarter.
Enhanced Trading Performance and Margin Improvements
The most encouraging element of the announcement centered on trading activities. The company indicated that gas trading and optimization performance would be “significantly higher” compared to first-quarter results, benefiting from substantial commodity price fluctuations connected to wider Middle East instability.
Brent crude averaged approximately $97 per barrel during Q2, climbing from $78 in Q1 and $67 in the year-earlier period. European gas prices at the TTF benchmark averaged roughly €46 per megawatt-hour, versus €40 in the first quarter and €36 twelve months prior.
Citi increased its second-quarter EPS projection for Shell by 13% after reviewing the update, characterizing it as “incrementally positive” and emphasizing robust performance in trading, chemicals, and fuels marketing operations.
Indicative refining margins registered around $20 per barrel during Q2, rising from $17 in the previous quarter. Chemicals margins surged to approximately $240 per ton from $139. The company acknowledged that actual realized margins fell short of these indicative figures due to market disruptions.
Working Capital Position Reverses Course
Regarding balance sheet dynamics, Shell projected a working capital inflow ranging from $1 billion to $6 billion in the second quarter. This represents a substantial turnaround from the $11.2 billion outflow documented in Q1, which the company attributed to “unprecedented volatility in commodity prices.”
Tax payment guidance increased to $2.6 billion–$3.4 billion, up from $2.3 billion in the first quarter.
Upstream production guidance also received an upward revision to 1.75 million–1.85 million boe/d, from the earlier range of 1.62 million–1.82 million boe/d.
Refinery utilization is anticipated to approach 100%, while chemicals facility utilization is projected at 80%–84%, marginally below the first quarter’s 85% rate.
Renewables and Energy Solutions adjusted earnings are forecast within a broad spectrum ranging from a $0.3 billion loss to a $0.3 billion profit.
Shell plans to release its second-quarter financial results on July 30. Analyst consensus estimates are expected to be published on July 22.
The post Shell (SHEL) Stock Surges Over 3% on Upgraded Q2 Production and Trading Guidance appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Barclays shifted its rating on Siemens Energy from “Equal Weight” to “Underweight,” triggering a 5%+ decline in shares on Tuesday.
Despite lifting its price target to €130 from €110, the bank cautioned that current valuations assume perpetual peak conditions.
Sustainable annual demand for global power equipment is estimated at 80–90 GW, about 15% lower than present order levels.
Peak free cash flow directed to shareholders is anticipated to reach approximately €7.6 billion in fiscal 2026 before tapering off.
Leading turbine manufacturers have already locked in over 70 GW worth of data center commitments, reducing potential for additional surprises.
Shares of Siemens Energy AG tumbled over 5% on Tuesday following a downgrade to “Underweight” from Barclays, making it the DAX’s biggest laggard during the trading session. The stock hovered around €146 when the downgrade was issued, retreating from year-to-date gains of approximately 35% prior to the announcement.
Barclays analyst Vlad Sergievskii delivered the downgrade while simultaneously lifting the firm’s price target to €130 from €110 — though the revised target still suggests substantial downside from prevailing price levels.
The core thesis: current market pricing assumes an ongoing gas turbine supercycle that Barclays believes is unsustainable.
Sergievskii noted that Siemens Energy has accumulated orders representing 50 GW on an annualized basis during the last six months. This figure exceeds total worldwide demand recorded in every year between 2017 and 2023. However, Barclays assesses long-term sustainable demand at merely 80–90 GW annually — roughly 15% beneath current order rates.
Siemens Energy’s gas turbine market share has expanded to approximately 40%, significantly surpassing its historic norm of 25–27%. Barclays anticipates this elevated share will revert toward historical levels over time.
Peak Cycle Warnings
The firm continues to project robust earnings expansion — a 25% EPS compound annual growth rate through 2030, with adjusted EPS climbing from €4.26 in fiscal 2026 to €9.20 in fiscal 2028. Revenue is forecast to advance from €43.24 billion to €57.41 billion during the same timeframe, representing a 13.7% CAGR.
The concern isn’t about growth prospects. Rather, Barclays contends that maximum order intake, peak cash generation, and tightest supply-demand dynamics are all aligning in 2026 — yet the stock trades as though these favorable circumstances will persist indefinitely.
Free cash flow available to equity investors is forecast to crest at roughly €7.62 billion in fiscal 2026, with approximately two-thirds stemming from working capital adjustments. Beginning in 2028, net working capital is projected to become a “significant drag.”
An additional constraint involves an ownership requirement. Siemens Energy faces a mark-to-market obligation of approximately $5 billion to increase its ownership in Siemens Energy India to 51% in 2028, which Barclays identified as a limitation on returns to shareholders.
Data Center Orders Already Secured
Among the most notable points in the research report: leading gas turbine and engine producers have already captured more than 70 GW in data center-linked orders or capacity reservations during the previous 15–18 months.
According to Barclays, this essentially satisfies the next three to four years of data center gas generation equipment requirements — implying that order momentum could decelerate significantly going forward.
Competitor GE Vernova posted gains during the same session, indicating this represents a company-specific narrative rather than an industry-wide development. Broader markets also showed strength, with the S&P 500 advancing 0.7% and the Nasdaq climbing 1.1%.
Regarding valuation, Barclays determined that Siemens Energy trades at a 20–35% discount relative to GE Vernova based on forward free cash flow yield and EV/EBITDA metrics — a differential the firm considers less substantial than widely perceived.
Siemens Energy’s upcoming earnings release is scheduled for early August, when order intake data will be scrutinized closely for initial indications of the demand normalization Barclays is forecasting.
The post Siemens Energy (ENR) Shares Tumble 5% Following Barclays Downgrade to Underweight appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Micron shares slid approximately 4.9% during premarket trading Tuesday following steep declines in Samsung and SK Hynix triggered by Samsung’s Q2 guidance.
Despite Samsung posting a 19-fold increase in operating profit that exceeded analyst expectations, memory chip stocks sold off across the board.
MU has retreated approximately 22% from its peak near $1,255, currently hovering around $985.
Analysts maintain optimistic outlooks — Bank of America lifted its target to $1,500, Citi set $1,200, and UBS holds at $1,625.
Potential headwinds include Michael Burry’s reported bearish bet and the threat of oversupply from Samsung and SK Hynix’s combined ~$3.7 trillion capital expenditure plans.
Shares of Micron Technology (MU) declined approximately 4.9% in early Tuesday trading, dragged down alongside South Korean memory semiconductor manufacturers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, which both experienced sharp losses. SanDisk also retreated 4.7% during the same session.
The catalyst behind the move was Samsung’s preliminary second-quarter financial guidance. The South Korean tech giant projected operating profit of 89.4 trillion won (approximately $58.44 billion) for the April-June period, a dramatic increase from 4.7 trillion won in the same quarter last year — representing roughly a 19-fold surge. The figure surpassed the LSEG SmartEstimate consensus of 87.3 trillion won. Revenue was expected to climb 129% year-over-year to 171 trillion won.
Despite the impressive figures, market participants sold off memory chip stocks across the board.
The premarket decline extends a broader correction that has pushed Micron approximately 22% below its all-time peak of roughly $1,255, with shares trading near $985 as of Monday’s close. Despite this pullback, MU has still surged more than 250% year-to-date.
The recent weakness doesn’t appear rooted in Micron’s operating performance. The memory chipmaker recently delivered record fiscal third-quarter sales of $41.5 billion, a massive leap from $9.3 billion in the prior-year period. Non-GAAP net income reached $28.9 billion, translating to $25.11 per diluted share. Operating cash flow surged to $25.4 billion.
These metrics hardly paint the picture of a struggling enterprise.
Understanding the Decline
The retreat appears more aligned with a broader recalibration across AI hardware stocks following an extended, rapid rally. Meta’s reported plans to develop a third-party AI compute business unsettled market participants, who interpreted it as a potential signal that some hyperscalers might eventually face excess capacity. This development dampened sentiment across semiconductor and AI infrastructure companies.
Goldman Sachs observed that US hedge funds had been reducing exposure to technology hardware stocks for four consecutive weeks leading into earnings season, reflecting increased caution following substantial semiconductor sector gains. Such positioning dynamics can magnify downward moves when market sentiment pivots.
Wall Street’s Perspective
Analyst community conviction remains largely intact. Bank of America’s Vivek Arya elevated his Micron price objective to $1,500 from $950 while maintaining a Buy rating. He views AI infrastructure transitioning from a demand narrative to a physical constraint scenario, where memory availability remains limited.
Citi’s Atif Malik increased his target to $1,200 in June, highlighting better-than-anticipated memory pricing dynamics and robust data-center demand. UBS analyst Nicolas Gaudois maintained a $1,625 price target, characterizing the decline as a buying opportunity while emphasizing continued strength in the memory industry.
The optimistic thesis centers on supply constraints persisting. This remains the primary factor underpinning most bullish analyst views.
Conversely, Michael Burry has allegedly established a short position in Micron, questioning whether the stock’s remarkable appreciation reflects AI enthusiasm rather than durable fundamental value.
The traditional memory cycle risk also looms. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix collectively plan approximately $3.7 trillion in long-term capital investments. Should this capacity come online during a period of softening AI demand, pricing pressures could materialize.
Samsung is anticipated to publish comprehensive divisional financial results later this month.
The post Micron (MU) Stock Tumbles 22% From Peak as Samsung Earnings Trigger Chip Stock Selloff appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Nasdaq 100 futures declined 0.9% on Tuesday following a record-breaking Monday session for major indexes
Samsung Electronics projected a nearly 19-fold increase in Q2 operating profit, yet shares plunged almost 7%
The Dow Jones Industrial Average achieved its second consecutive record closing on Monday, powered by technology sector gains
Crude oil advanced approximately 1.4% following Iran’s missile strikes on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz
Market participants await Federal Reserve meeting minutes on Wednesday and monitor the NATO summit for developments
U.S. equity futures retreated during Tuesday’s early trading hours after benchmark indexes delivered a robust performance in the previous session.
Futures tied to the Nasdaq 100 declined 0.9% in pre-market activity. Contracts linked to the S&P 500 slipped approximately 0.2%. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures managed a modest gain, rising roughly 48 points or 0.1%.
E-Mini S&P 500 Sep 26 (ES=F)
During Monday’s trading, each of the three primary indexes finished in positive territory. The Dow Jones notched a record closing level for the second consecutive day. The Nasdaq advanced more than 1% as semiconductor stocks experienced significant buying interest.
Monday’s upward movement stemmed from revitalized enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence investments, coming after semiconductor equities experienced weakness throughout June.
Tuesday’s retreat emerged as market participants opted to reduce technology exposure, despite encouraging earnings guidance from Samsung.
Samsung Delivers Strong Forecast Yet Shares Tumble
Samsung Electronics issued preliminary earnings guidance during early Tuesday trading, projecting operating income for the second quarter would surge nearly 19-fold compared to the prior year.
Despite exceeding expectations, shares fell approximately 6.9%.
The figures surpassed analyst projections by merely 6%, apparently prompting widespread profit-taking. The stock had rallied roughly 382% during the preceding 12-month period.
“One theme in the pack is how astonishing moves in the South Korean equity market have been over the last year,” said Deutsche Bank analyst Jim Reid.
South Korea’s benchmark KOSPI index similarly retreated following the announcement.
Penguin Solutions is scheduled to release earnings results Tuesday as well, providing markets with additional insight into semiconductor sector performance.
Commodities and Fixed Income Respond to Middle East Tensions
Crude oil prices advanced after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched missiles targeting two commercial vessels operating near the Strait of Hormuz.
Brent crude increased 1.4% to reach $72.99 per barrel. West Texas Intermediate gained 1.4% to settle at $69.48 per barrel.
The U.S. dollar edged 0.1% higher against a basket of major currencies. The benchmark 10-year Treasury note yield climbed 3 basis points to 4.51%.
No significant U.S. economic data releases are scheduled for Tuesday. Market participants are also monitoring a NATO summit taking place in Ankara, Turkey for potentially market-moving announcements.
Federal Reserve meeting minutes will be published Wednesday, providing investors with additional context regarding the central bank’s thinking on future monetary policy adjustments.
SpaceX recently became a component of the Nasdaq 100, with market analysts noting that the inclusion may contribute to enhanced price swings within the technology-heavy index.
The post Wall Street Futures Retreat as Semiconductor Momentum Fades and Samsung Results Underwhelm appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways
Iranian forces launched at least two missiles at commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz on Monday evening
Brent crude jumped 1.6% to reach $73.10 per barrel; WTI futures climbed 1.5% to $69.60 per barrel
A temporary one-week ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran has lapsed
OPEC+ members agreed to boost production quotas by 188,000 barrels daily beginning in August
Saudi Aramco reduced August pricing for Arab Light crude to a discount versus regional benchmarks—the first such move since 2020
Crude oil markets rallied on Tuesday following an Iranian missile attack targeting commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, reigniting concerns about the security of shipping operations in this critical global oil chokepoint.
Brent crude futures advanced 1.6% to $73.10 per barrel during early European trading sessions. U.S. West Texas Intermediate contracts increased 1.5% to $69.60 per barrel.
Brent Crude Oil Last Day Financ (BZ=F)
According to reports from Axios citing two American officials, Iranian military forces launched at least two missiles toward vessels in the strait late Monday. The strikes marked the end of a week-long cessation of hostilities that had been negotiated between the U.S. and Iran.
The IRGC fired missiles at commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, hitting TWO vessels, per a U.S. official.
-The IRGC launched at least two missiles at commercial ships transiting the strait, a U.S. official confirms
-Both ships were hit and suffered significant… pic.twitter.com/vmgdtFV5bq
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 7, 2026
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency confirmed that a tanker sailing near Oman’s coastline was struck by an unknown projectile, sparking a fire onboard. While Tehran has not formally acknowledged the attack, unnamed sources speaking to Iranian state media indicated the target may have been a vessel transporting natural gas from Qatar.
Fragile Ceasefire Collapses
The missile strikes occurred precisely as the seven-day suspension of attacks in the strait reached its conclusion. That temporary arrangement was connected to a more comprehensive memorandum of understanding inked fewer than three weeks prior, which now appears increasingly fragile.
Tehran has mandated that all vessels transiting the strait must follow Iranian-designated shipping corridors. Iranian officials warned that any American intervention would trigger “a rapid and decisive action.”
Oil markets had retreated to pre-conflict pricing levels following the signing of a peace agreement in June. During the early stages of the conflict that erupted in late February, oil prices had skyrocketed beyond $110 per barrel.
Analysts at Deutsche Bank observed that despite prices normalizing, vessel traffic through the strait remains significantly below historical norms. “There is still supply-chain stress here,” their research note stated.
OPEC+ Boosts Output Amid Gulf Recovery
The upward movement in crude prices faced resistance from expanding global supply. OPEC+ members reached an agreement on Sunday to raise production allocations by 188,000 barrels daily commencing in August. This marks the continuation of comparable increases implemented during June and July.
The United Arab Emirates, which exited the OPEC+ quota framework in May, reported production exceeding 3.8 million barrels per day throughout June, surpassing its pre-conflict output capacity.
Saudi Aramco simultaneously lowered the official selling price for Arab Light crude destined for Asian markets. This represents the first instance of discount pricing relative to regional benchmarks since 2020, signaling intensified competition for market positioning as Persian Gulf exports normalize.
Market analysts at MUFG suggested that upward price momentum will likely remain constrained. “Saudi Arabia has cut its August official selling prices, OPEC+ continues to unwind production cuts, Gulf exports are recovering, and the physical market remains well supplied,” explained Soojin Kim from MUFG.
Conditions in the strait remain volatile, with diplomatic negotiations continuing and jurisdiction over the strategic waterway remaining a fundamental point of contention between Iranian and American interests.
The post Iranian Missile Strike in Strait of Hormuz Pushes Oil Prices Up Over 1.5% appeared first on Blockonomi.