Blockonomi

TLDR:

Aave Will Win proposal directs application revenue from Aave Pro, Aave App, and Horizon directly to the DAO treasury.

Aave’s protocol revenue reached $140 million in 2025, with 2026 tracking similarly despite market weakness.

Swaps on Aave.com and Aave Pro are generating $10–20 million in new revenue on top of existing protocol income.

Aave Labs commits to zero-bureaucracy governance, requiring measurable SP goals and full financial transparency.

Aave has passed what its community calls the most important proposal in the protocol’s history. The Aave Will Win (AWW) proposal secured a landslide governance vote, reshaping how the protocol generates revenue.

The new framework positions the AAVE token as the central asset across all products and brand assets. It also introduces new application revenue streams beyond the core protocol. These earnings are directed entirely to the DAO treasury for the first time.

Aave Moves Toward a Full-Stack Revenue Model

The AWW proposal creates a new revenue layer on top of existing Aave Protocol earnings. Application and product revenue from Aave Pro, Aave.com, Aave App, Horizon, and Aave Kit will now flow to the DAO.

This represents a clear expansion beyond the protocol-only revenue model that has existed since the project launched.

According to Aave Labs founder Stani Kulechov, the DAO accumulated $140 million in protocol revenue in 2025. Revenue for 2026 is tracking at a similar level despite broader market weakness.

That growth was achieved through protocol-only income alone, making the addition of application revenue a notable shift.

Kulechov noted on X that swaps on Aave.com and Aave Pro are already generating between $10 million and $20 million.

Aave Will Win, the most important proposal in Aave's history just passed with a landslide.

Here's the master plan going forward:

General Direction

– Aave becomes fully token-centric: one asset, one model: $AAVE

– To date, protocol revenue per AIP-1 has accumulated to the Aave…

— Stani (@StaniKulechov) April 12, 2026

This revenue is additive, sitting on top of what the protocol already generates. Together, the two streams begin building the full-stack revenue model the proposal envisions.

Aave V4’s reinvestment feature allows idle capital in pools to generate additional yield for the protocol. New V4 Spokes will also unlock further collateral and address the demand side of the DeFi liquidity market. These technical upgrades work in tandem with the revenue changes introduced under AWW.

Aave Labs has committed to working exclusively on the protocol’s own products going forward. This means AAVE token holders now own the protocol’s brand, users, and integrations through one unified asset.

Owning the full vertical stack is increasingly important as protocol competition intensifies across the DeFi space.

Governance Rules Tighten as Risk Management Expands

The governance model under AWW is shifting to a zero-bureaucracy structure focused on execution. Service providers will now be held to real, measurable goals rather than process-heavy deliverables.

The change reflects the DAO’s intent to compete with well-funded and efficient organizations in the broader financial sector.

Kulechov stated plainly on X: “Payments for posting governance proposals are over.” The DAO has already consolidated service providers to direct resources more effectively.

Going forward, SPs who align with token holder interests will receive budget support, provided their requests remain reasonable.

Under the new rules, full transparency from all service providers is a firm requirement. Relationship gating and value leakage away from the protocol will not be tolerated. Everything built with the DAO’s funds must benefit the protocol and remain owned by it.

On the risk side, Aave will maintain a dual-layer approach covering both economic and technical risk assessment. External managers such as Llama Risk and Token Logic will continue operating in their current roles. Their work will be supported and coordinated by a new internal team at Aave Labs.

Aave Labs will build a permanent internal risk management function to sit alongside external managers. This combined structure makes the overall risk framework more resilient.

Better coordination between layers is expected to strengthen the protocol’s response to market and technical risks ahead.

The post Aave Will Win Proposal Passes: AAVE Token Now Controls Protocol Revenue, Brand, and Full Product Stack appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Average ROI across 2026 token launches sits at -54%, with RNBW losing nearly 90% from its ICO price.

Attention and liquidity both peak at TGE and consistently fail to recover, trapping retail buyers at the top.

Projects like MegaETH and Polymarket are now delaying TGEs until real usage milestones and traction are confirmed.

Tokens with proven product-market fit like Pendle and Hyperliquid continue holding narrative ground above newer launches.

Token launches in 2026 are delivering deeply negative returns for early participants, according to recent on-chain data.

Average ROI across this year’s launches sits at approximately -54%, raising serious questions about the current fundraising model.

Projects like RNBW, ZAMA, and AZTEC have each lost between 43% and nearly 90% of their value after their token generation events.

Market analysts now point to structural flaws in how new tokens reach the market. The pattern is consistent, and it is hitting retail investors hardest.

The Data Behind the Decline

Recent figures paint a troubling picture for anyone entering early-stage token sales. RNBW dropped 89.87% from its ICO price, while ZAMA fell 43% after its TGE. AZTEC declined nearly 50% shortly after going live on exchanges.

These are not isolated cases. The -54% average ROI across 2026 launches points to a recurring structural problem with token distribution and pricing at launch.

Crypto researcher Nick Research flagged this pattern publicly, noting that both attention and liquidity peak at TGE and then never recover. That observation lines up with what data consistently shows across multiple project launches this cycle.

➥ Is launching tokens dead in 2026?

Honestly, I think the old meta is completely dead

I look at the data, average ROI of 2026 launches = around -54% for early participants
– $RNBW: -89.87% from ICO
– $ZAMA: -43% after TGE
– $AZTEC: – 49.79 after TGE

This is systemic value… pic.twitter.com/gpaFqWNcnL

— Nick Research (@Nick_Researcher) April 12, 2026

The core issue is the low float, high fully diluted valuation model combined with heavy venture capital allocations. This structure creates what analysts describe as an exit liquidity machine, where early backers offload holdings onto retail buyers at peak hype.

A Market Pivoting Toward Usage and Revenue

Despite weak performance data, token launches are not disappearing entirely. However, the model is clearly evolving in response to consistent losses by retail participants.

MegaETH has chosen to delay its TGE until specific key performance milestones are met. Polymarket and OpenSea have also withheld firm launch dates, a move that signals growing caution among project teams about launching before real traction exists.

This shift reflects a broader recalibration in how investors assess new projects. The speculation-first approach that defined earlier cycles is giving way to a usage-first standard that the market now rewards more visibly.

Tokens with genuine product-market fit continue to hold narrative ground. Assets such as Pendle and Hyperliquid retain attention in ways newer launches simply cannot match.

BTC, ETH, SOL, TAO, and HYPE still dominate market conversation, crowding out newer entrants almost entirely within days of any new launch.

New experiments in attention markets and cashback incentive models are also emerging as alternative frameworks. These designs attempt to align token value with real platform usage rather than speculative demand.

For now, the market is sending a clear message: proof of traction before TGE is no longer optional for any project seeking long-term viability.

The post Token Launches in 2026 Face Systemic Value Destruction, Data Shows appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Michael Saylor posted “Think ₿igger” on X, widely read as a signal of Strategy’s next Bitcoin purchase.

Bitcoin dropped to $71,500 after US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad collapsed without an agreement. 

Strategy holds 766,970 BTC worth $54.47B, buying at 2.2x the rate of newly mined supply in 2025. 

With $2.25B in reserves and a $42B ATM facility, Strategy has the firepower for continued buying. 

Bitcoin watchers are on high alert. Michael Saylor, The Strategy executive chairman dropped two words on X — “Think ₿igger”.

With 766,970 BTC already on the books and geopolitical fires burning from the Strait of Hormuz to Islamabad, Saylor’s latest post is making markets wonder what comes next and how large the next purchase will be.

Saylor’s “Think ₿igger” Post Stops the Crypto World in Its Tracks

Two words. That is all it took. Michael Saylor posted “Think ₿igger” on X on April 12, attaching the Orange Dots chart that has become one of the most anticipated visuals in institutional crypto circles. 

Think ₿igger. pic.twitter.com/L1yH3n0k7t

— Michael Saylor (@saylor) April 12, 2026

Each orange dot marks a Bitcoin purchase by Strategy. More dots have always followed.

The post landed at a moment when Bitcoin was already bleeding, sliding toward $71,500 as news broke that high-stakes US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad had collapsed without a deal. 

The negotiations, the most direct diplomatic exchange between Washington and Tehran in decades, fell apart over nuclear commitments and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Markets did not take it well.

The Strait of Hormuz is no small flashpoint. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply moves through that narrow waterway daily.

When the US Navy began minesweeping operations in the region, risk sentiment cracked across equities, commodities, and crypto alike. 

Bitcoin dropped approximately 2.5%, caught in the crossfire of a geopolitical standoff with no clear resolution in sight. Yet there was Saylor, unfazed, pointing toward something larger. 

Last week, Strategy confirmed a $330 million Bitcoin purchase shortly after a similar Orange Dots post appeared. The pattern is well-established at this point. When Saylor posts the chart, a buy announcement tends to follow within days.

Strategy’s War Chest Positions the Firm for Another Major BTC Move

Strategy is not operating on hope. The numbers behind the firm’s Bitcoin ambitions are striking. The company currently holds 766,970 BTC, valued at approximately $54.47 billion, accumulated at a pace running 2.2 times faster than the newly mined supply entering the market. 

That kind of buying velocity does not happen without serious financial infrastructure behind it. The balance sheet backs up the aggression. 

Strategy carries $2.25 billion in USD reserves against $8.25 billion in total debt, with net leverage holding at a disciplined 11%. Enterprise value has climbed to $60.9 billion, comfortably ahead of its $44.6 billion market capitalization. 

These are not the numbers of a firm about to slow down. The capital pipeline tells the same story. 

A $42 billion at-the-market equity facility remains available, with additional runway coming through ongoing STRC fundraising. Strategy paused a 13-week consecutive buying streak in late March, but that pause now looks brief. 

With Saylor’s post circulating and the financial machinery still running at full capacity, another major Bitcoin acquisition may already be in motion.

The post Michael Saylor Hints at Buying More Bitcoin as BTC Slides to $71,500 appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Bitcoin’s OTC share reached 82.26%, placing settlement activity firmly inside the Institutional Alert Zone.

Coinbase captured 58.21% of CEX flows, reflecting its custody role for eight U.S. Bitcoin ETFs.

Long-term holders deposited just 94.68 BTC to exchanges against 706,000 BTC moved on-chain in 24 hours.

Analysts warn futures traders against short positions as public sell-side liquidity hits critical lows.

Bitcoin institutional dominance hit a macro alert level in the past 24 hours. On-chain analyst GugaOnChain reported OTC trading captured 82.26% of total BTC settlement volume. 

Coinbase led centralized exchange flows at 58.21% of residual CEX activity. With BTC at $73,337, up 9.02% over seven days, settlement reached 706,000 BTC, worth $51.5 billion. These figures point to coordinated institutional accumulation on a large scale.

OTC Markets Signal Structural Accumulation

Bitcoin’s OTC share crossing 80% places it inside what analysts call the Institutional Alert Zone. This range, between 80% and 90%, marks periods when public liquidity contracts sharply. 

As a result, only 17.14% of total settlement activity reached centralized exchanges in this window. Open order books were, therefore, left with minimal sell-side depth.

When OTC activity reaches this level, smart money moves large BTC volumes off-exchange. GugaOnChain noted this pattern has been intensifying over recent weeks. 

Institutional buyers are consistently opting for private transactions over exchange-based order flow. This behavior gradually removes available supply from retail-accessible trading venues.

GugaOnChain posted a direct warning to futures traders on social media. The analyst wrote that 82% off-exchange settlement leaves the spot market sell side near empty. 

Any demand spike, the post stated, would trigger a supply shock. Violent upward repricing of Bitcoin, the analyst warned, would follow closely.

The broader takeaway for active traders centers on managing directional risk. GugaOnChain explicitly cautioned against short positions in the current market environment.

 With minimal sell-side liquidity in public markets, any demand spike faces no resistance. This structural setup makes short positions particularly vulnerable to sudden, sharp reversals.

Coinbase Leads CEX Flows While Long-Term Holders Stay Inactive

Within the 17.14% of flow transacted on centralized exchanges, capital concentration was notable. Coinbase dominated at 58.21%, reflecting its role as custodian for eight of eleven U.S. Bitcoin ETFs. 

Binance followed at 22.13%, functioning primarily as a retail entry point rather than an institutional hub. Kraken accounted for 6.44%, drawing compliance-focused institutional capital.

To confirm the accumulation thesis, GugaOnChain cross-referenced OTC data with exchange inflow metrics. The analyst applied the “Bitcoin: Exchange Inflow – Spent Output Age Bands” indicator across all major exchanges. 

Coins older than six months deposited to exchanges totaled just 94.68 BTC in 24 hours. Against 706,000 BTC moved on-chain that day, this confirms near-total dormancy among long-term holders.

This data shows veteran holders are not distributing into the current price rise. Old coins stay locked away while fresh institutional accumulation continues off-exchange. 

Low long-term holder selling combined with high OTC absorption tightens the available supply structure. These converging factors build a case for continued upward price movement in Bitcoin.

The supply picture, taken together, favors sustained buying pressure. Liquidity drains privately while public order books remain thin and underpopulated. 

Any fresh wave of spot demand will encounter very little sell-side resistance. The data consistently supports the setup for a continued Bitcoin price advance.

The post Bitcoin Institutional Dominance Hits 82% Amid Surging OTC Activity appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

JD Vance confirmed US-Iran nuclear talks failed, triggering a 3% Bitcoin price drop overnight.

Bitcoin’s decline extended its drawdown to nearly 42% from its most recent all-time peak price.

Nearly $1 billion in sell volume hit Binance derivatives within one hour of the failed talk news.

Binance funding rates fell to -0.0065%, confirming short positions now dominate the derivatives market.

Bitcoin faced sharp selling pressure after US-Iran nuclear talks collapsed over the weekend. JD Vance confirmed no agreement was reached, sending BTC down 3% and back toward the $70,000 range.

Bitcoin Slides 3% After Diplomatic Breakdown

Bitcoin entered the weekend with cautious optimism, supported by improving geopolitical signals from the prior week. Traders had been watching the US-Iran negotiations closely for any sign of progress.

Instead, JD Vance announced overnight that talks had failed entirely. Disagreements over nuclear issues were cited as the main barrier to any deal.

The price quickly reflected the news, with Bitcoin dropping around 3%. That decline brought BTC back to the $70,000 area, a zone that had acted as support in recent sessions.

The move also extended Bitcoin’s drawdown to nearly 42% from its most recent peak. Despite the sustained decline, market participants continued to lean short.

Geopolitical tension has often added uncertainty to crypto markets, and this case was no different. The breakdown removed a layer of optimism that had been building throughout the week.

When that support gave way, the sell-off followed quickly and without hesitation. Bearish momentum took hold almost immediately after the announcement.

Trading volumes responded sharply as the news circulated. BTC price action was decisive, with sellers taking control during the session.

The broader crypto market also reflected the risk-off shift. Bitcoin, as the market’s lead asset, absorbed the brunt of the pressure.

Short Sellers Take Control of Binance Derivatives

Within one hour of the news breaking, nearly $1 billion in sell volume flooded Binance derivatives. Crypto analyst Darkfost noted in a post that this level of activity in such a short window pointed to heavy, coordinated short positioning.

The volume surge reinforced the already declining price trajectory. It was a clear signal that traders were reacting swiftly to the geopolitical news.

Funding rates on Binance moved further into negative territory, settling around -0.0065%. Binance incorporates an implicit interest rate of 0.01% into its funding rate calculations.

When the rate falls below that level, it confirms that short positions are already dominating. That threshold has now been crossed, placing control firmly with the bears.

This kind of short-side consensus has historically preceded counter-moves in the market. When most participants align on one side, price often moves in the opposite direction.

However, this dynamic tends to carry less force during bear market conditions. Any potential reaction is likely to remain limited in both scale and duration.

Traders watching this setup should remain measured in their expectations. The broader trend continues to favor the downside, even with crowded short positioning.

A reactive bounce is possible but not guaranteed under current conditions. BTC’s next move will likely depend on any fresh geopolitical or macro developments.

The post Bitcoin Drops 3% as Failed US-Iran Nuclear Talks Trigger Heavy Short Pressure appeared first on Blockonomi.

Tóm tắt:

Giá trị nắm giữ BTC và ETH của BlackRock đã giảm từ 78,36 tỷ đô la xuống 57,89 tỷ đô la trong quý 1 năm 2026.

Số lượng Bitcoin nắm giữ tăng 14.950 BTC mặc dù giá trị đô la giảm 16,24 tỷ đô la trong quý.

Số lượng Ethereum nắm giữ giảm 410.750 ETH, phản ánh cả sự yếu kém về giá và phân phối ròng tích cực.

Các khoản lỗ quý 1 năm 2026 là 20,47 tỷ đô la, thấp hơn 5,97 tỷ đô la so với mức giảm 26,44 tỷ đô la ghi nhận trong quý 4 năm 2025.

Danh mục đầu tư tiền điện tử của BlackRock đã ghi nhận sự giảm mạnh 20,47 tỷ đô la trong quý 1 năm 2026, khi giá Bitcoin và Ethereum giảm mạnh ảnh hưởng lớn đến tài sản của nhà quản lý.

Tóm tắt:

Binance đã ghi nhận sự giảm lớn nhất về lãi suất mở XRP, giảm khoảng 721.49 triệu XRP trong thời gian gần đây.

Bybit đã ghi nhận sự sụt giảm khoảng 132.10 triệu XRP trong lãi suất mở, phản ánh động lực đầu cơ suy yếu trên toàn nền tảng.

Bitfinex đã góp phần vào xu hướng giảm với sự sụt giảm khoảng 10.96 triệu XRP, hoàn tất một đợt giảm liên tục trên cả ba sàn giao dịch lớn.

Sự sụt giảm lãi suất mở XRP có thể giảm rủi ro thanh lý và thiết lập điều kiện sớm cho một sự phục hồi tiềm năng khi thanh khoản trở lại.

Key Takeaways

Major indices secured back-to-back weekly gains: S&P 500 advanced 3.5%, Dow Jones climbed 3%, Nasdaq jumped 4.7%

Financial sector heavyweights including JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America release quarterly results this week

Consumer prices posted their steepest monthly jump in nearly two years during March, primarily fueled by energy costs

WTI crude trading around $98 per barrel, though forward contracts point to potential decline toward $85 by summer

Technology sector shows dramatic split: software names plunge 30% while chip manufacturers soar over 20% year-to-date

Equity markets concluded their second straight positive week as Wall Street shifts focus toward quarterly corporate reports. The benchmark S&P 500 index rose 3.5%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 3% and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite surged 4.7% over the five-day period. Despite remaining in negative territory for 2026, all three major gauges now sit less than 1% away from returning to breakeven.

E-Mini S&P 500 Jun 26 (ES=F)

The coming days feature a packed calendar of corporate announcements. Goldman Sachs kicks things off Monday. JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Wells Fargo deliver their numbers Tuesday. Bank of America and Morgan Stanley are scheduled for Wednesday, while Netflix and Taiwan Semiconductor round out the week with Thursday releases.

#earnings for the week of April 13, 2026 https://t.co/hLn2sKQhEY $NFLX $TSM $GS $JPM $ASML $BLK $MS $BAC $C $KMX $FAST $AA $JNJ $SCHW $SIFY $SLG $JBHT $PGR $FITB $FBK $BK $PLD $NKLR $PEP $SURG $TFC $RF $WFC $SFNC $TRV $PNC $MTB $HOVR $CFG $CNS $ABT $ALLY $HOFT $LAKE $MAMA… pic.twitter.com/JFbFzQdWcB

— Earnings Whispers (@eWhispers) April 10, 2026

Investors remain attentive to international developments as well. Diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran conducted in Pakistan throughout the weekend concluded without breakthrough, as Tehran declined commitments regarding nuclear weapons development, Vice President JD Vance disclosed Saturday evening.

America is waking up to some major news.

Peace talks between the US and Iran have failed and both sides have returned home.

As a result, Iran is refusing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz without a permanent peace agreement and the US has called it "bad news" for Iran.

Now, we…

— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) April 12, 2026

Crude Oil Remains Central Market Driver

Since hostilities between the United States and Iran commenced, petroleum prices have emerged as the primary metric capturing trader attention. West Texas Intermediate crude finished Friday’s session near $98 per barrel, representing a significant jump from approximately $68 before conflict erupted.

Yet forward contracts for July settlement are pricing oil substantially lower around $85. Evercore ISI’s Julian Emanuel suggested that WTI settling in the “low-to-mid $80s” range would sufficiently eliminate downward pressure on equities.

The temporary 14-day truce involving the United States, Israel, and Iran provided market participants with renewed confidence during the previous week. The sustainability of this ceasefire will largely determine petroleum pricing and, consequently, broader equity market trajectory.

Friday’s inflation data revealed consumer prices climbed 0.9% during March, marking the steepest one-month advance since June 2022. Economic analysts attributed the bulk of this surge to energy-related increases stemming from geopolitical tensions.

The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment gauge dropped to an all-time low in April, though researchers noted 98% of survey responses were gathered prior to the ceasefire announcement.

Source: Forex Factory

Diverging Fortunes Within Technology Sector

The performance gap among technology stocks has expanded dramatically. The iShares Software Sector ETF tumbled more than 7% during the past week and now shows a 30% decline year-to-date.

Salesforce represents the category’s weakest performer, sliding over 35% in 2026. AppLovin, Intuit, and ServiceNow have each retreated more than 40%. Microsoft, Palantir, and Oracle have all declined more than 25%.

Chip manufacturers present a contrasting picture. The VanEck Semiconductor ETF has gained over 20% during the current year. Intel, Applied Materials, Lam Research, and Marvell Technologies have each surged more than 50%.

ASML unveils results Wednesday, followed by Taiwan Semiconductor on Thursday. Taiwan Semiconductor’s preliminary March revenue figures released last week indicated robust ongoing demand for artificial intelligence processors.

Netflix also joins the reporting schedule Thursday, capping an action-packed week for corporate earnings.

The post Banking Sector Earnings and Crude Oil Trends Dominate This Week’s Market Watch appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights

Micron’s Q2 fiscal 2026 quarterly sales surged nearly 200% compared to the prior year, with records set in all divisions

AMD delivered $10.3 billion in Q4 2025 sales, marking a 34% jump year-over-year alongside a 57% non-GAAP gross margin

TSMC forecasts approximately 30% revenue expansion in 2026 when measured in U.S. dollars

Despite strong AI exposure, these three companies maintain more modest price-to-earnings multiples than leading AI chipmakers

TSMC anticipates its AI accelerator division will expand at a compound annual rate in the mid-40 percent range through 2029

Three semiconductor powerhouses—Micron, AMD, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing—are riding the artificial intelligence wave with impressive momentum. Yet despite robust financial performance and accelerating growth trajectories, market analysts suggest these stocks may be undervalued relative to their sector peers.

The ongoing buildout of AI infrastructure has created surging demand across the semiconductor supply chain, from specialized memory modules to cutting-edge processors and advanced fabrication services. While these companies occupy distinct positions within this ecosystem, they share a compelling characteristic: substantial revenue acceleration without the elevated valuation multiples commanded by other AI-focused names.

Micron: Transforming from Commodity Memory to Critical AI Component

Micron has undergone a remarkable repositioning in investor perception, evolving from a cyclical commodity producer into an essential AI infrastructure provider.

During the company’s fiscal second quarter of 2026, revenues expanded almost threefold versus the same period twelve months prior. The semiconductor manufacturer achieved unprecedented performance levels across its entire product portfolio, including DRAM, NAND flash, high-bandwidth memory, and all operating segments.

Profitability metrics showed equally dramatic improvement. The company’s fiscal third-quarter outlook alone is projected to surpass total annual revenue figures from any fiscal year ending through 2024.

Artificial intelligence servers demand massive quantities of specialized high-bandwidth memory, and Micron has positioned itself as a primary supplier for this critical component. Company leadership indicated that robust demand coupled with constrained supply conditions will likely persist well into 2027.

The manufacturer is also negotiating extended, multi-year supply agreements with major customers, potentially transforming the business model toward greater predictability and reducing the historical boom-bust patterns that characterized the memory industry.

Despite these fundamental improvements, Micron continues trading at a valuation discount compared to AI chip designers, even as memory has become indispensable to the AI computing architecture.

AMD: Impressive Performance in Nvidia’s Shadow

AMD announced record quarterly sales of $10.3 billion for Q4 2025, representing a 34% year-over-year increase. The company achieved a non-GAAP gross margin of 57%.

Chief Executive Lisa Su characterized 2025 as a transformational year and emphasized that the company began 2026 with substantial forward momentum. She highlighted the EPYC processor family and expanding data center AI operations as primary growth engines.

AMD is constructing a comprehensive AI ecosystem that encompasses data center graphics processors, server central processing units, and strategic system-level collaborations.

Market participants frequently position AMD as a direct competitor to Nvidia and sometimes dismiss it as the inferior alternative. However, AMD’s investment thesis doesn’t require outperforming Nvidia entirely. The company simply needs to capture increasing market share within a rapidly expanding addressable market while maintaining healthy profit margins.

If AMD sustains its AI accelerator growth trajectory while preserving margin discipline, several analysts believe current valuations may prove significantly discounted when viewed retrospectively.

TSMC: The Essential Manufacturing Infrastructure Powering AI Innovation

TSMC produces the sophisticated semiconductor chips that power much of today’s AI economy. The foundry giant projects 2026 revenues will expand by nearly 30% when denominated in U.S. currency.

AI accelerator production represented a high-teens percentage of total 2025 revenue. Management forecasts this segment will grow at a compound annual growth rate in the mid-40 percent range during the five-year period beginning in 2024.

TSMC’s strategic position differs fundamentally from Micron or AMD. The company maintains diversification across products and customers rather than depending on any single offering or client relationship. As long as demand for leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing remains robust, TSMC occupies an irreplaceable position within the global supply chain.

The manufacturer operates production facilities throughout Taiwan, Japan, and the United States, with additional American expansion projects currently in development.

Final Thoughts

Micron, AMD, and TSMC have all delivered compelling financial results in their latest reporting periods. Each company maintains substantial exposure to AI hardware demand while demonstrating expanding revenues and improving profitability. The sustainability of these growth trends will largely depend on whether AI infrastructure investment maintains its current pace throughout the remainder of 2026 and beyond.

The post Three AI Chip Stocks Trading Below Their Potential: Micron (MU), AMD, and TSMC (TSM) appeared first on Blockonomi.

Những điểm chính

Cổ phiếu Plug Power đã tăng khoảng 25% tính từ đầu năm 2026 sau khi công bố kết quả quý mạnh hơn dự kiến.

Nhà sản xuất pin nhiên liệu hydro đã báo cáo khoản lỗ EPS là $0.06 so với kỳ vọng của các nhà phân tích là khoản lỗ $0.10, với doanh thu đạt $225.2M so với dự báo là $217.4M.

Susquehanna đã nâng mục tiêu giá lên $2.75 từ $2.50 trong khi duy trì quan điểm “trung lập”, gợi ý rằng tiềm năng tăng giá từ mức hiện tại là hạn chế.

Sự đồng thuận của Phố Wall vẫn ở mức “Giữ” với mục tiêu giá trung bình là $3.03; cổ phiếu giao dịch trong khoảng 52 tuần từ $0.69 đến $4.58.

Key Points

Diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran concluded after 21 hours without agreement in Pakistan

Nuclear weapons development remained the central sticking point, according to Vice President JD Vance

President Trump directed immediate naval blockade operations in the Strait of Hormuz

Approximately 20% of worldwide petroleum and LNG shipments transit through the strategic waterway

Energy commodity prices anticipated to surge when trading begins Monday

Diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran concluded without resolution on Sunday in Islamabad, Pakistan, as 21 hours of intensive negotiations failed to produce a breakthrough on fundamental disagreements.

JUST IN – Trump orders the U.S. Navy to blockade the Strait of Hormuz to "any and all ships trying to enter, or leave." Also instructing the U.S. Navy to seek and interdict every vessel in international waters that has paid a toll to Iran: "No one who pays an illegal toll will… pic.twitter.com/wpvTuTvyd6

— Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) April 12, 2026

The American negotiating team, headed by Vice President JD Vance, cited Iran’s unwillingness to halt its nuclear weapons development as the primary obstacle to reaching an accord.

“Our non-negotiable requirements have been communicated with absolute clarity, and they have declined to meet our conditions,” Vance stated to journalists in Islamabad during the early hours of Sunday.

Tehran’s diplomatic representatives characterized the outcome differently, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei noting that complex international disputes require multiple rounds of engagement. He emphasized that “diplomatic channels remain open” for continued dialogue.

The negotiating agenda encompassed three critical issues: governance of the Strait of Hormuz passage, extending the temporary ceasefire agreement, and implementing a graduated sanctions reduction framework. Iranian semi-official news outlets characterized American proposals as “unreasonable.”

Since hostilities between the United States and Israel commenced in late February, Iran has effectively halted maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz. This critical chokepoint facilitates roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas transportation worldwide.

On Sunday, two unladen oil tankers attempted passage through the strait but reversed course precisely when the diplomatic talks concluded.

Presidential Order for Naval Interdiction

Following the diplomatic breakdown, President Trump announced via Truth Social that U.S. naval forces would commence blockade operations in the Strait of Hormuz without delay.

“Effective immediately, the United States Navy will begin the process of blockading any and all ships trying to enter or leave the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump wrote.

Trump additionally declared that American naval vessels would detain any ship operating in international waters that had submitted payment to Iranian authorities. “No vessel paying an illegitimate fee will receive safe passage through these waters,” he stated.

The President characterized the diplomatic session as productive overall, noting that “most points were agreed,” while acknowledging the insurmountable divide concerning Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Energy Markets Prepare for Volatility

Market observers predict substantial increases in petroleum and natural gas valuations when trading commences Monday. Nick Twidale, chief market analyst at AT Global Markets in Sydney, noted growing optimism last week preceding the negotiations.

“This could set us back to levels that we were trading at prior to the ceasefire announcement,” Twidale said. “I would think we will see oil open higher alongside the dollar.”

The recently established two-week ceasefire now appears increasingly unstable. Pakistani officials, who facilitated the discussions, described them as “constructive” and pledged ongoing mediation support.

Casualties from the conflict have exceeded 5,600 across Iran, Lebanon, and surrounding territories. U.S. Central Command reports thirteen American military personnel have been killed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu advocated for the removal of enriched nuclear materials from Iranian facilities regardless of whether diplomatic agreements materialize.

The post Trump Imposes Naval Blockade on Strait of Hormuz After Iran Talks Fail appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

MO shares finished trading at $66.80, delivering 26.9% returns over 12 months and an impressive 91.9% gain across five years

Intrinsic valuation via DCF methodology reaches $99.44 per share, suggesting the stock trades at a 32.8% discount

Current P/E multiple of 16.12x falls short of the calculated Fair Ratio at 23.27x, indicating potential undervaluation

Company declared $1.06 quarterly dividend, translating to a 6.3% annual yield, with April 30 payment date

Wall Street maintains “Hold” rating with average price objective at $65.75

Altria Group (MO) has delivered impressive returns to shareholders recently. The tobacco giant’s shares settled at $66.80, representing year-to-date appreciation of 16.6% and a robust 26.9% advance over twelve months. Looking further back, the five-year return reaches 91.9%.

Such robust performance inevitably leads investors to wonder: is there more upside ahead, or has the rally exhausted itself?

MO shares began Friday’s session at $67.52. The 50-day moving average currently stands at $66.41, while the 200-day average tracks at $62.59. Over the past year, the trading range has extended from a low of $54.70 to a peak of $70.51.

The company’s fourth-quarter results showed earnings per share of $1.30, falling marginally short of analyst expectations at $1.32. Top-line performance fared better, with revenue reaching $5.08 billion versus the $5.02 billion consensus forecast.

Wall Street projects full-year earnings of $5.32 per share for the ongoing fiscal period.

Fundamental Analysis Indicates Discount to Fair Value

Utilizing a 2-Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity discounted cash flow framework, Altria’s fair value calculates to $99.44 per share. This assessment incorporates trailing twelve-month free cash flow of $9.11 billion, with projections reaching $9.31 billion by 2028.

Measured against the prevailing market price of $66.80, this methodology points to a meaningful 32.8% discount — flagging the stock as potentially undervalued.

Price-to-earnings analysis reinforces this conclusion. MO currently commands a 16.12x earnings multiple. While this exceeds the tobacco sector average of 12.27x, it trails the peer group average of 18.63x. Simply Wall St’s calculated Fair Ratio for Altria sits at 23.27x, further supporting the undervaluation thesis.

The company maintains a market capitalization of $112.85 billion, with a PEG ratio of 2.85 and beta of 0.41 — indicating lower volatility relative to broader equity markets.

Distribution Policy and Ownership Patterns

Management declared a $1.06 per share quarterly distribution, scheduled for April 30 payment. The ex-dividend date occurred on March 25. This translates to $4.24 annually and generates a 6.3% yield.

The current payout ratio registers at 103.16%.

Recent institutional activity shows Westbourne Investments establishing a fresh position valued at approximately $995,000 during Q4, acquiring 17,261 shares. Multiple other institutional players expanded holdings, including V Square Quantitative Management, Yarger Wealth Strategies, and Powers Advisory Group. MH & Associates Securities Management initiated a position worth roughly $2.72 million.

Institutional ownership currently represents 57.41% of outstanding shares.

Street Sentiment and Corporate Transactions

Wall Street opinion remains divided. UBS maintains a buy recommendation with a $74 price objective. Citigroup holds a neutral stance at $65. Barclays carries an underweight rating at $63. Jefferies assigns an underperform rating with a $50 target.

The aggregate consensus lands at “Hold” with a mean price target of $65.75 — marginally below current trading levels.

Regarding insider transactions, SVP Charles N. Whitaker disposed of 27,908 shares on March 5 at an average price of $67.57, generating proceeds of approximately $1.89 million. This sale reduced his holdings by 13.37%. His remaining position totals 180,869 shares.

Company insiders collectively control 0.08% of outstanding equity.

The post Altria Group (MO) Stock: Valuation Models Signal Upside Despite Mixed Analyst Sentiment appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

UNH shares gained 8.16% this past week, including a near-10% single-session surge

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services approved a 2.48% rate increase for Medicare Advantage in 2027

Bernstein boosted its target price to $411 while maintaining a Buy recommendation

HSBC moved UNH to Hold; Baird analyst Michael Ha stands alone with a Sell rating

Despite the rally, UNH remains down approximately 7% this year and more than 50% off its 2024 high

UnitedHealth Group (UNH) experienced its strongest weekly performance in seven months, surging more than 8% following an unexpected Medicare Advantage payment increase from federal regulators.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services confirmed a 2.48% boost to Medicare Advantage reimbursement rates for 2027. This represented a substantial upgrade from preliminary guidance that had suggested rates would remain virtually unchanged.

The news triggered an impressive single-day rally approaching double digits. Market participants had been positioning for disappointing news, making the elevated rate an unexpected positive catalyst.

Medicare Advantage has served as a critical revenue driver for UNH throughout the past ten years. However, escalating healthcare expenses combined with constrained government reimbursements had begun compressing profitability, making this regulatory decision particularly significant.

Bernstein analysts responded swiftly following the announcement. The research firm elevated its UNH price objective to $411 while reaffirming its Buy stance.

According to Bernstein’s analysis, the CMS ruling transforms what appeared to be a potential 4% drag on 2027 profits into anticipated earnings expansion of approximately 1.4%. That represents a substantial turnaround.

On the same trading day, HSBC analyst Sidharth Sahoo elevated UNH to a Hold recommendation. While stopping short of a bullish call, the upgrade signals a recalibration of downside risks.

A Lone Dissenting Voice

The enthusiasm isn’t universal. Michael Ha from Baird maintained his Underperform stance, positioning him as the sole bearish voice among 31 sell-side analysts tracking the healthcare giant.

Ha contends the payment bump may provide only short-term relief. His analysis highlights that fundamental challenges facing value-based care frameworks remain unresolved.

That perspective deserves consideration. The Medicare Advantage segment continues facing a complex operating landscape, despite the favorable rate adjustment.

Long-Term Challenges Persist

UNH recently forecasted declining 2026 revenues — potentially marking its first annual sales decline in more than thirty years. Membership levels are projected to decrease across commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid segments.

Shares remain down roughly 7% year-to-date and trade over 50% beneath their 2024 peak. This week’s advance narrows those losses, but significant ground remains to be recovered.

Nevertheless, the consensus view on Wall Street leans positive. Among 31 analysts following UNH, 22 maintain Buy recommendations. The consensus 12-month price target implies approximately 17% potential upside from current trading levels.

Optum, UNH’s healthcare services division encompassing pharmacy benefit management and care delivery operations, continues offering earnings stability while the traditional insurance segment navigates obstacles.

Market participants are now focused on Q1 2026 results. Healthcare cost trends and any revised Medicare Advantage profitability outlook will be critical focal points.

The post UnitedHealth (UNH) Stock Soars 8% on Medicare Advantage Rate Increase – Can Momentum Last? appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

UNH shares gained 8.16% in the past week, featuring a near-10% single-session jump

CMS approved a 2.48% Medicare Advantage payment rate boost for 2027

Bernstein lifted its price target to $411 while maintaining a Buy recommendation

HSBC moved UNH to Hold; Baird’s Michael Ha stands as the only analyst with a Sell rating

The stock remains down approximately 7% in 2025 and over 50% from its 2024 high

UnitedHealth Group (UNH) experienced its strongest weekly performance in seven months, surging more than 8% following an unexpected Medicare Advantage reimbursement rate increase from federal regulators.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services confirmed a 2.48% boost to 2027 Medicare Advantage payment rates. This represented a significant upgrade from the agency’s initial proposal, which had projected rates would remain essentially unchanged.

The regulatory announcement triggered a substantial single-day rally approaching double digits. Market participants had anticipated a less favorable outcome, making the enhanced rate a welcome surprise.

For more than ten years, Medicare Advantage has served as a critical growth driver for UNH. However, escalating healthcare expenses combined with constrained federal reimbursements had begun compressing profit margins, making this decision particularly significant.

Bernstein responded swiftly to the development. The research firm increased its UNH price objective to $411 while reaffirming its Buy stance.

Bernstein’s analysis indicated the CMS ruling transforms what might have been approximately a 4% drag on 2027 profits into projected earnings expansion of about 1.4%. That represents a considerable shift in the financial outlook.

HSBC analyst Sidharth Sahoo elevated UNH to Hold on the announcement day. While not a strong buy signal, the upgrade reflects an improved risk-reward balance.

A Lone Dissenting Voice

The bullish sentiment isn’t universal. Baird’s Michael Ha maintained his Underperform stance, positioning himself as the sole analyst with a sell-equivalent recommendation among 31 firms tracking the company.

Ha contends the payment bump might only provide temporary relief. He pointed to persistent structural challenges facing value-based care frameworks that remain unresolved.

This perspective deserves consideration. The Medicare Advantage segment continues operating in a challenging landscape, despite the improved reimbursement environment.

Broader Context

UNH recently forecasted declining 2026 revenue — potentially marking its first yearly contraction in more than 30 years. Membership is projected to decrease across commercial insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid segments.

Shares remain down roughly 7% year-to-date and trade more than 50% beneath the 2024 peak. This week’s advance reduces those losses somewhat, but substantial distance remains to recovery.

Nevertheless, the analyst community leans positive overall. Among 31 firms covering UNH, 22 maintain Buy recommendations. The consensus 12-month price target suggests approximately 17% upside potential from present levels.

Optum, UNH’s healthcare services division encompassing pharmacy benefit management and direct care delivery, continues delivering earnings consistency while the traditional insurance operation faces challenges.

Market watchers are now focused on Q1 2026 results. Medical expense patterns and any revised Medicare Advantage profitability outlook will be critical focal points.

The post UnitedHealth (UNH) Stock Soars 8% Following Medicare Advantage Rate Increase — Can It Last? appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Bitcoin an toàn với lượng tử hoạt động trong các quy tắc đồng thuận hiện tại của Bitcoin, không yêu cầu phân nhánh mềm hoặc tín hiệu từ thợ mỏ.

Mỗi giao dịch QSB có chi phí từ 75 đô la đến 200 đô la do yêu cầu tính toán GPU nặng nề ngoài chuỗi.

QSB thay thế bảo mật chữ ký ECDSA bằng các chứng minh dựa trên hàm băm mà máy tính lượng tử không thể dễ dàng phá vỡ.

Levy khung QSB như một công cụ khẩn cấp cuối cùng, không phải là sự thay thế cho các giải pháp lâu dài như BIP-360.

Một nhà nghiên cứu của StarkWare đã giới thiệu Bitcoin an toàn với lượng tử (QSB), một sơ đồ dựa trên hàm băm làm cho các giao dịch Bitcoin kháng lại các cuộc tấn công lượng tử hôm nay, mà không yêu cầu bất kỳ thay đổi nào đối với giao thức.

Tóm tắt:

Các altcoin đã vượt qua một mô hình wedge giảm trong nhiều năm trên biểu đồ TOTAL2, báo hiệu một sự đảo chiều xu hướng tiềm năng.

Chỉ báo MACD đang tiến gần đến một điểm cắt ngang tăng giá mà gần giống như thiết lập thấy trước đợt tăng giá altcoin năm 2020.

Các token bao gồm Zcash, LayerZero, Ethena, và Arbitrum đã ghi nhận mức tăng trên 10% trong một khoảng thời gian 24 giờ.

Hơn 40% các altcoin đã gần mức thấp nhất mọi thời đại vào tháng 3, nhưng lãi suất mở đã vượt qua 113 tỷ đô la kể từ đó.

Mùa altcoin 2026 đang cho thấy các tín hiệu kỹ thuật chưa từng thấy kể từ năm 2020. Một sự bứt phá mô hình wedge giảm trong nhiều năm trên biểu đồ TOTAL2, kết hợp với một điểm cắt ngang tăng giá MACD đang cận kề, đã khiến các nhà phân tích theo dõi chặt chẽ.

Điểm nhấn chính

Cổ phiếu Exxon Mobil giảm khoảng 1,6% vào thứ Sáu, bắt đầu phiên giao dịch ở mức 152,43 đô la, đánh dấu một đợt giảm khoảng 10% trong tháng Tư sau khi tăng mạnh 41% trong quý đầu tiên.

Giá dầu giảm khoảng 16% sau khi các diễn biến ngừng bắn làm giảm lo ngại về eo biển Hormuz, loại bỏ phí bảo hiểm rủi ro địa chính trị đã thúc đẩy cổ phiếu XOM tăng.

Khối Stabroek của Guyana chứa khoảng 11 tỷ thùng dầu dự kiến và được dự báo sẽ vượt qua 1 triệu thùng mỗi ngày trước khi kết thúc năm 2026.

TLDR

Robinhood shares slid 1.33% on Friday, ending the session at $69.19

The brokerage is growing its prediction market offerings while eliminating certain high-risk contract categories

“Mention Markets” contracts — wagers on specific words in public speeches — were discontinued due to abuse and manipulation risks

The company collaborates with regulated U.S. platforms Kalshi and ForecastEx instead of crypto-based competitors like Polymarket

CEO Vlad Tenev described prediction markets as the company’s “fastest-growing business ever” in 2025, with 12 billion contracts exchanged

Robinhood continues to scale its prediction markets operation, but the company is establishing firm boundaries around which contract types it will make available to traders.

The brokerage has eliminated specific event-based contracts from its offerings, particularly “Mention Markets” — instruments allowing traders to wager on whether certain words will appear in speeches or corporate earnings calls. According to Robinhood UK President Jordan Sinclair, these contracts were discontinued over concerns related to potential market abuse and insider trading vulnerabilities.

“We don’t necessarily offer all prediction markets or all event contracts,” Sinclair explained. “There are some we’ve chosen that aren’t right for our customers.”

This move arrives as prediction market platforms encounter heightened regulatory examination. Multiple prominent incidents have sparked concern throughout the sector.

Substantial, suspiciously-timed wagers emerged before a U.S. military operation targeting Iran. Israeli law enforcement brought charges against two people accused of exploiting classified defense intelligence to place bets. Trading volume also spiked prior to a Nobel Peace Prize reveal, prompting an official leak probe.

Beyond geopolitical events, a former editor associated with a popular YouTube channel paid a $20,000 penalty for wagering based on insider knowledge of unreleased video content.

These incidents demonstrate how prediction markets become vulnerable to exploitation when results depend on confidential information.

Choosing Compliance Over Decentralization

Robinhood has deliberately partnered with Kalshi and ForecastEx — both operating as regulated entities within the United States that mandate identity verification and comply with federal oversight frameworks. This approach contrasts sharply with Polymarket, which permits users to participate through cryptocurrency wallets requiring minimal personal verification.

For a publicly traded corporation, this strategic choice carries significant implications. Minimizing connections to unregulated platforms helps mitigate both legal exposure and potential damage to corporate reputation.

Robinhood views the prediction market sector as a substantial revenue generator. The firm projects approximately $300 million in annual revenue from this business line.

CEO Vlad Tenev characterized prediction markets as the platform’s “fastest-growing business ever” during 2025. Throughout that year, more than 12 billion contracts changed hands on the platform.

Tenev has additionally suggested the market might enter a “supercycle” phase, potentially reaching trillions in yearly trading volume eventually — though he provided no specific timeframe for such expansion.

HOOD Stock Performance on Friday

Robinhood’s stock decreased 1.33% during Friday’s trading, settling at $69.19.

Analyst sentiment toward the stock remains strongly positive. Aggregating 17 analyst assessments, HOOD holds a Strong Buy consensus rating. The mean price target stands at $106.20, implying a potential upside of 53.49% from Friday’s closing price.

Robinhood’s decision to discontinue Mention Markets comes after previous enforcement actions where individuals faced penalties for insider trading connected to comparable contract structures.

The post Robinhood (HOOD) Expands Prediction Markets While Eliminating Risky Contract Categories appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

Intel shares have climbed approximately 70% in 2026 year-to-date

The chip manufacturer strengthened its cloud computing and AI collaboration with Google, focusing on next-generation Xeon processors

Intel became part of Elon Musk’s Terafab initiative, joining forces with SpaceX, xAI, and Tesla

The company unveiled a gallium nitride (GaN) chiplet innovation coinciding with the Terafab reveal, suggesting strategic alignment with SpaceX requirements

Analyst sentiment remains neutral with a Hold rating and a consensus price target of $50.83 — approximately 19% under current trading levels

Intel’s recent performance has been remarkable. The semiconductor giant has posted gains approaching 70% in 2026 thus far, driven by two significant developments: an enhanced collaboration with Google and an unexpected participation in Elon Musk’s Terafab semiconductor venture.

The partnership with Google revolves around upcoming Intel Xeon processor platforms. Google Cloud currently utilizes Intel Xeon 6 chips throughout its C4 and N4 computing instances, supporting both artificial intelligence operations and conventional computational tasks. This strengthened arrangement ensures Intel maintains its foothold in Google’s data center ecosystem as artificial intelligence requirements expand.

Intel’s CEO Lip Bu Tan articulated the company’s vision clearly: “Scaling AI requires more than accelerators. It requires balanced systems.” The statement serves as a strategic counterpoint in an industry fixated on GPU capabilities.

Both organizations will deepen their collaboration on specialized infrastructure processing units, known as IPUs. These processors handle networking, data storage, and security operations separately from primary CPUs, liberating computational resources while reducing energy consumption. Google’s Amin Vahdat emphasized that CPUs paired with infrastructure acceleration represent “a cornerstone of AI systems.”

Intel’s Entry Into Terafab

Roughly one week following the Google announcement, Intel revealed its participation in Terafab — Musk’s ambitious semiconductor manufacturing initiative serving Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI. The project targets annual production capacity of one terawatt of computing power. To put this in perspective, current global production of cutting-edge AI processors totals approximately 20 gigawatts — merely 2% of Terafab’s objective.

Intel’s specific contribution to Terafab hasn’t been fully disclosed. Questions remain about whether the company will provide technology licensing, capital investment, or direct fabrication facility operations.

However, coinciding with the Terafab disclosure, Intel Foundry scientists published noteworthy research: a significant advancement in ultra-thin gallium nitride (GaN) chiplet technology.

GaN demonstrates superior durability compared to silicon when exposed to high-voltage and high-radiation conditions — both prevalent in space applications. Intel’s research team successfully developed a method to fabricate GaN directly onto standard 300mm wafers using conventional manufacturing infrastructure, significantly reducing production expenses. Additionally, they created a refinement technique that reduced the silicon substrate to merely 19 microns — about one-fifth the diameter of a human hair.

The Space Application Significance

The more substantial technical achievement: Intel successfully integrated GaN power electronics with silicon logic circuitry on a single chiplet. Traditionally, these transistor types must remain separated because power components produce thermal output and electrical interference that can compromise logic circuits. Maintaining separation results in bulkier, heavier hardware.

Intel’s layer transfer methodology combines them into one streamlined package. Validation testing demonstrated the chiplets perform reliably under demanding operational conditions.

For SpaceX, reduced weight and enhanced radiation resistance directly impact cost efficiency. Current launch expenses vary from $1,000 to $10,000 per pound of cargo. Weight reduction across any rocket component delivers meaningful savings.

Musk has indicated that the majority of Terafab’s semiconductor production will support SpaceX operations, including orbital AI computing facilities and an expanding space-based industrial infrastructure.

Despite Intel’s impressive stock performance, financial analysts maintain reservations. Among 35 analysts tracking Intel, the prevailing recommendation is Hold. The mean price target stands at $50.83, approximately 19% beneath current market valuation.

The post Intel (INTC) Stock Soars 70% on Google Partnership and Terafab Collaboration appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong publicly reversed his stance to back the CLARITY Act after months of opposition.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged Congress to move quickly on digital asset regulation rules. 

Coinbase CLO Paul Grewal anticipated meaningful CLARITY Act progress within 48 hours of his statement. 

Banks and crypto firms remain at odds over stablecoin rewards, stalling the bill since January 2025. 

CLARITY Act crypto regulation is nearing a turning point. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has reversed his months-long opposition to the bill and has publicly backed the legislation alongside U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. 

With Coinbase’s legal chief anticipating a deal within 48 hours, Washington’s push to establish a formal digital asset framework is gaining serious momentum.

Armstrong Reverses Stance Amid Washington’s Push for Crypto Rules

Coinbase Global CEO Brian Armstrong has publicly backed the CLARITY Act, reversing months of opposition to the legislation. His support came after U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged Congress to act quickly on digital asset regulation. 

Bessent published a Wall Street Journal opinion piece calling for clearer rules governing crypto markets and stablecoins.

Armstrong responded directly on social media, writing: “Thank you, Scott Bessent, for saying it. It’s time to pass the Clarity Act.” 

He also credited bipartisan Senate efforts over recent months for strengthening the bill. The public endorsement marked a clear departure from his earlier position.

Earlier this year, Armstrong withheld support as debates over stablecoin yield remained unresolved. He had stated that Coinbase would prefer no bill over a flawed one. 

We agree. Thank you @SecScottBessent for saying it. It's time to pass the Clarity Act.

Grateful for all the bipartisan work among Senators and staff over the past several months to make this a strong bill. https://t.co/jHoZ1bfLVZ pic.twitter.com/YBKebDkq8B

— Brian Armstrong (@brian_armstrong) April 10, 2026

His latest stance now aligns with Washington’s broader momentum toward formalizing crypto oversight. COIN stock has declined 29% this year, trading at $169.02 per share amid ongoing regulatory uncertainty.

Banks and Crypto Firms Remain Divided Over Stablecoin Rewards

Coinbase Chief Legal Officer Paul Grewal indicated on April 1 that progress on the CLARITY Act was expected within 48 hours. Speaking to Fox Business, he said, “I’m very confident we’re going to see progress. 

The reason for that is we need to finish the job.” He outlined a path through a Senate Banking Committee markup, a floor vote, and a presidential signature.

The Senate Banking Committee had delayed its markup session multiple times, stalling the bill since January. The central conflict involves whether third-party platforms can offer yield tied to stablecoin holdings. 

Banking groups want the CLARITY Act to restrict that practice, while crypto firms argue it would revisit already-settled rules.

Last year’s GENIUS Act, now signed into law, barred stablecoin issuers from paying interest directly. That provision was a concession to banks concerned about deposit migration to higher-yielding digital assets. 

President Trump has since warned banks not to obstruct his administration’s crypto agenda, stating that inaction risks ceding ground to countries like China advancing digital asset frameworks faster.

The U.S. Treasury also proposed the first rule under the GENIUS Act, allowing stablecoin issuers with under $10 billion in outstanding issuance to operate under state-level rules, subject to strict conditions.

The post Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Drops Opposition and Backs the CLARITY Act Bill appeared first on Blockonomi.