USA expansion to Celo signifies the first move beyond Ethereum, leveraging regulated digital dollars on a high-volume network.

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Base outlines its 2026 roadmap focused on global markets, stablecoins, and builders as it expands its onchain economy strategy.

The post Base outlines 2026 roadmap focused on global markets, stablecoins, and builders appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

World launches MiniKit 2.0 with faster transactions, gas sponsorship, and stablecoin support to streamline app development on World Chain.

The post World launches MiniKit 2.0 to unify app development across web and World App appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Block says it wants to rebuild as a mini-AGI weeks after cutting over 4,000 jobs in an AI driven overhaul led.

The post Jack Dorsey’s Block pitches mini-AGI vision weeks after cutting nearly half its workforce appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Anthropic exposed Claude Code source on npm, revealing internal architecture, hidden features, model codenames, and fresh security risks.

The post Anthropic’s Claude Code leak reveals autonomous agent tools and unreleased models appeared first on Crypto Briefing.

Bitcoin Magazine

Satoshi’s 2010 Quantum Response Is Getting a 2026 Stress Test as Google Warns Timeline May Be Closer Than Expected

In 2010, long before quantum computing became a mainstream concern in crypto circles, Bitcoin’s pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, was already sketching out how the network might respond if its underlying cryptography were ever compromised.

The premise was simple but consequential: Bitcoin’s security assumptions are not permanent. They can be replaced.

In early Bitcointalk discussions, Satoshi outlined a scenario in which the system’s cryptographic primitives — whether hashing or digital signatures—  could eventually weaken. If that happened gradually, the network could coordinate a transition: a protocol upgrade would introduce stronger algorithms, and users would migrate their holdings by re-signing coins into new address formats. 

Even in the case of widespread signature failure, Satoshi suggested the system could still recover if there was time to agree on a transition path.

At the time, it was an abstract exercise in future-proofing. Now, it is becoming a live design question.

Google’s quantum update shifts timeline

New research from Google’s Quantum AI division has reignited debate over how soon quantum machines could threaten modern cryptography, including the elliptic curve signatures securing Bitcoin.

In updated estimates published this week, researchers say the computational requirements for breaking elliptic curve cryptography may be significantly lower than previously believed — potentially requiring fewer than 500,000 physical qubits under optimized conditions. That marks a roughly 20-fold reduction compared to earlier projections.

More importantly, the research suggests that once sufficiently advanced systems exist, they may be capable of executing attacks within Bitcoin’s operational time frame (roughly ten minutes per block) enabling so-called “on-spend” attacks that target transactions while they are still unconfirmed in the mempool.

While no such cryptographically relevant quantum computer exists today, the updated models have compressed the perceived distance between current hardware and theoretical breakpoints. 

Some industry participants now describe the shift as moving risk from the mid-2030s into the late 2020s window.

Google has also publicly targeted 2029 as a milestone for broader post-quantum cryptography migration across systems

A stress test of Bitcoin’s upgrade philosophy

The renewed attention to quantum risk has placed Bitcoin’s original design philosophy under a new lens. Unlike centralized financial systems, Bitcoin cannot be upgraded unilaterally. Any migration to quantum-resistant cryptography would require voluntary coordination across miners, developers, exchanges, wallet providers, and users.

That dynamic makes Bitcoin structurally slower to adapt, but also more resilient against unilateral changes.

Satoshi’s early framing anticipated this tension. The proposed solution was not prevention, but migration: if cryptography weakens, users would re-sign coins into a new scheme, effectively moving value forward into a stronger security system. 

The blockchain itself would persist, but ownership proofs would evolve. What was less clear in 2010 to Satoshi was the scale and coordination challenge such a migration would require in a global, trillion-dollar network.

Recent analysis tied to Google’s findings highlights a more nuanced threat model than earlier “break Bitcoin” narratives. The concern is not only long-term key recovery, but short-window exploitation, where a sufficiently fast quantum system could derive private keys from exposed public keys during transaction broadcast and confirmation.

This introduces a distinction between dormant and active funds. According to estimates cited in the research, a substantial portion of Bitcoin supply may already have exposed public keys on-chain, increasing theoretical vulnerability once quantum capability reaches a threshold.

Industry response

The response across the digital asset industry has been divided but serious.

Some researchers argue the timeline remains comfortably distant, emphasizing that quantum systems capable of breaking modern cryptography still require breakthroughs in both hardware scale and error correction. 

Others, including contributors to Google’s research ecosystem, suggest the slope of progress has steepened enough to warrant immediate preparation.

Galaxy Digital’s head of research, Alex Thorn, noted that while the probability of near-term compromise remains low, the direction of progress is difficult to ignore, and that work on post-quantum migration should be treated as precautionary infrastructure planning rather than reactive crisis response.

“Google Quantum AI’s new paper describes much more efficient circuits that significantly reduce the requirements for a quantum computer to be capable of breaking classical cryptography, such as those that secure blockchains like Bitcoin,” Thorn wrote to Bitcoin Magazine. 

“No such computer exists today. And Google’s researcher Craig Gidney gives 10% odds that a quantum machine capable of breaking cryptography will be built by 2030,” Thorn added.

Others find this threat feasible, but far away.

“Quantum computing represents a genuine engineering challenge for the cryptocurrency industry, but it is far from an existential threat in the current form,” Bitfinex analysts shared with Bitcoin Magazine.

Satoshi’s assumption meets real-world constraints

The key tension in 2026 is that Satoshi’s migration model assumes time: time to detect a weakening primitive, time to agree on a replacement, and time for users to move funds safely.

Google’s updated analysis compresses that assumption.

If quantum capability develops gradually, Satoshi said that Bitcoin could theoretically transition as originally envisioned. But if capability crosses a threshold rapidly, especially with advances in “on-spend” attack feasibility, the window for orderly migration could narrow significantly.

That is the scenario now driving discussion across protocol developers: not whether Satoshi’s Bitcoin can survive quantum computing in principle, but whether its coordination mechanisms can respond quickly enough in practice.

This post Satoshi’s 2010 Quantum Response Is Getting a 2026 Stress Test as Google Warns Timeline May Be Closer Than Expected first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

Bitcoin Magazine

Bitcoin Price Faces Rising Sell Pressure as ETF Demand Absorbs Distribution

Bitcoin sell pressure is rising as the bitcoin price drifts toward a sixth straight monthly loss, yet underlying flows show a split market where short-term holders exit while institutions absorb supply.

Bitcoin price traded below $65,000 late Tuesday after falling from above $74,000 earlier in March. The move has come alongside a rise in exchange inflows, with about 22,000 BTC sent to trading venues during one session, signaling distribution from recent buyers. 

Despite that pressure, price has held above the $60,000 range and remains above long-term support levels.

The key question is where the coins are going.

On-chain data points to a steady transfer of supply from short-term holders to larger entities. Over the past month, roughly 63,000 BTC has been accumulated through spot exchange-traded funds and similar vehicles, offsetting a portion of the selling. That flow suggests demand from institutions has returned after several months of reduced exposure.

ETF data shows inflows have begun to stabilize after a period of sustained outflows. 

U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs have recorded about $1.2 billion in net inflows in March, marking a shift in positioning. The renewed demand has not been strong enough to lift price, but it has helped absorb coins sent to market during periods of weakness.

Short-term holders, defined as wallets holding Bitcoin for less than 155 days, tend to react to drawdowns and volatility. Their selling often peaks during consolidation phases, adding supply at local lows. That pattern has emerged again as Bitcoin price struggles to reclaim momentum following a failed push above $76,000 earlier in the month.

At the same time, the supply available from these holders is finite. As coins move into longer-term storage or institutional vehicles, liquid supply tightens. If demand remains steady, that dynamic can create a base for future price stability.

Bitcoin price’s six straight months of losses 

Still, macro conditions continue to shape the broader trend. Bitcoin is on track to match a rare six-month losing streak, last seen in 2018-2019. A monthly close below $67,300 would confirm the sequence, reflecting persistent pressure across risk assets.

Unlike past cycles, Bitcoin price has not yet broken below its 200-week moving average or realized price, levels that have marked prior bear market lows. That has left the market in a middle ground, with neither capitulation nor clear recovery, according to Bitcoin Magazine Pro data.

Nicolai Sondergaard, research analyst at Nansen, said positioning reflects uncertainty tied to macro drivers.

“Bitcoin still looks range-bound here, not outright weak but not in a clean risk-on regime either. Spot holding around $67,685 alongside exchange outflows suggests there is still underlying accumulation, but options positioning into end-of-week expiry reflects uncertainty more than conviction, with skew and IV being shaped primarily by macro inputs, dollar strength, and rate repricing rather than crypto-native demand,” Nicolai wrote to Bitcoin Magazine. 

Macro signals have taken priority over crypto-specific catalysts. Oil prices above $100, shifting expectations for rate cuts, and geopolitical tensions have driven capital allocation decisions. Bitcoin price has remained correlated with equities and other risk assets, limiting the impact of internal flows.

Bitfinex analysts pointed to a change in institutional behavior as a key development.

“Institutional flows have undergone a clear regime shift. After a strong accumulation phase in early March, ETF flows have turned decisively negative, culminating in some of the largest single-day outflows from IBIT. This reversal signals active de-risking by institutional participants rather than passive rotation, removing a key pillar of support for price,” they shared with Bitcoin Magazine.

They added that broader liquidity conditions continue to dominate.

“Bitcoin has remained correlated with broader risk assets and has participated in ongoing institutional de-risking. This behaviour reflects the dominance of liquidity conditions in the current regime, where rising yields and tighter financial conditions are driving capital allocation decisions.”

For now, the market reflects a balance between distribution and absorption. 

Short-term holders continue to sell into weakness, while institutions step in during dips. The outcome of that standoff will depend less on crypto-specific demand and more on whether macro conditions ease enough to support renewed risk appetite.

At the time of writing, the bitcoin price is less than $67,000.

This post Bitcoin Price Faces Rising Sell Pressure as ETF Demand Absorbs Distribution first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

Bitcoin Magazine

Bitfarms (BITF) Started Selling All of Its Bitcoin, Pivoting Fully to AI Infrastructure

Bitfarms is moving toward a future with no bitcoin on its balance sheet, marking one of the clearest breaks yet between legacy mining firms and the emerging AI infrastructure trade.

The Nasdaq-listed company confirmed it has begun selling its bitcoin holdings and plans to continue doing so over time, with CEO Ben Gagnon stating on the firm’s fourth-quarter earnings call, “In time, we will have no bitcoin.” 

The approach signals a phased exit rather than a single liquidation, with management indicating it will sell into market strength while extracting remaining cash flow from mining operations.

Bitfarms held 1,827 BTC as of its latest disclosure, according to BitcoinTreasuries.net. The company generated $28.2 million in realized gains from bitcoin sales in 2025, underscoring that the transition is already underway. While it continues to mine in the near term, the stated goal is to wind down that business line and redeploy capital elsewhere.

That destination is artificial intelligence and high-performance computing infrastructure. Bitfarms is building out a 2.2 gigawatt development pipeline across North America, spanning sites in Pennsylvania, Washington, and Québec. The company expects this infrastructure to support AI-driven workloads, with revenue contributions targeted to begin in 2027.

Bitcoin mining isn’t cutting it anymore for Bitfarms

The shift reflects a broader recalibration across the mining sector. Faced with tighter margins, rising competition, and the long-term impact of bitcoin halving cycles, many miners are exploring alternative uses for their energy assets.

Data centers designed for AI and cloud workloads offer a path to steadier demand and contracted revenue, in contrast to the volatility tied to bitcoin prices.

Bitfarms’ transformation also includes a corporate overhaul. 

Shareholders have approved a redomiciliation from Canada to the United States alongside a rebrand to Keel Infrastructure. The transition is expected to close around April 1, with shares set to trade under the ticker KEEL shortly after. 

The new identity is meant to reflect a business centered on energy and compute infrastructure rather than digital asset production.

Management framed the pivot as the culmination of investments made over the past year. “Everything we built in 2025 — the sites, the team, the balance sheet — was in service of one thesis,” Gagnon said, pointing to rising demand for AI infrastructure. The company has positioned its portfolio in regions with grid access and power availability, which it sees as key constraints in the current data center market.

As of late March, Bitfarms reported total liquidity of about $520 million, including both cash and bitcoin holdings. The gradual sale of its remaining BTC is expected to support ongoing development while simplifying the balance sheet. The company also repaid $100 million in debt tied to a prior financing facility, a move aimed at improving flexibility as it enters a capital-intensive buildout phase.

Financial results highlight the pressures behind the shift. Bitfarms reported $229 million in revenue for 2025, up 72% year over year, but posted a net loss of $284 million. A significant portion of that loss stemmed from changes in the fair value of digital assets and impairment charges, reinforcing the volatility inherent in holding bitcoin on the balance sheet.

Bitfarms has made clear it does not plan to compete directly in cloud services. Instead, it aims to supply powered land and data center capacity, enabling customers to deploy compute resources. 

The model aligns with a growing class of firms that focus on the physical layer of the AI stack, where access to electricity and permitting has become a bottleneck. Bitcoin miners fit well into that stack because of their existing infrastructure.

Bitfarm’s stock was up over 5% at times today. BITF is currently priced at $1.89 a share.

This post Bitfarms (BITF) Started Selling All of Its Bitcoin, Pivoting Fully to AI Infrastructure first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

Bitcoin Magazine

Google’s New Quantum Research Reignites Push to Harden Bitcoin

A new research paper from Google has intensified debate over whether Bitcoin can adapt in time to withstand advances in quantum computing, pushing developers and investors to confront a risk long treated as theoretical.

Google’s quantum division said this week in a new whitepaper that future machines could break widely used encryption far more efficiently than previously estimated, including the elliptic curve cryptography that underpins Bitcoin wallets. 

The research suggests attacks that once appeared decades away may arrive sooner, with some scenarios modeling the ability to crack encryption in minutes under advanced conditions.

The findings do not imply an immediate threat. Today’s quantum computers remain far below the scale required to break modern cryptographic systems. But the paper reduces the estimated resources needed, narrowing the gap between theory and practice and shifting attention toward preparation rather than dismissal.

Google has already set a 2029 target to transition its own systems to post-quantum cryptography, reflecting a broader shift among large technology firms and governments toward defensive planning.

Is Bitcoin under threat? 

For Bitcoin, the implications are specific and structural. The network relies on digital signatures that could, in principle, be reversed by a sufficiently powerful quantum computer. Roughly one-third of the total Bitcoin supply sits in addresses where public keys have been exposed, creating a defined set of targets under certain attack models.

Separate analyses cited in the research estimate that about 6.7 million Bitcoin may be exposed to varying degrees under quantum attack scenarios, including coins held in older address formats where public keys remain permanently visible on-chain.

More immediate concerns focus on transaction windows. When a Bitcoin transaction is broadcast, its public key becomes visible before confirmation. Google’s research suggests a theoretical attacker could exploit that gap, solving for the private key within the same time frame it takes for a block to be mined.

That has shifted the conversation among developers from abstract risk to engineering timelines.

Binance founder Changpeng Zhao pushed back on what he described as exaggerated concerns, arguing that most cryptographic systems, including Bitcoin, can migrate to quantum-resistant algorithms without destabilizing the network.

He noted, however, that execution remains a constraint. Coordinating upgrades across a decentralized ecosystem could lead to competing proposals, software fragmentation and potential forks, while users holding assets in self-custody would need to actively migrate funds to new wallet structures.

The Bitcoin ecosystem has begun early-stage work on quantum resistance. A recent proposal, known as BIP 360, introduces new transaction formats designed to remove or reduce exposure to vulnerable cryptographic assumptions. The proposal remains in draft form, but test implementations are already running in experimental environments, allowing developers to evaluate quantum-safe signatures in practice.

Even proponents describe the effort as a starting point rather than a solution. Any upgrade would require broad coordination across a decentralized network, a process that can take years to reach consensus and deploy.

That timeline is central to the emerging debate. Estimates suggest a full migration to quantum-resistant cryptography in Bitcoin could take the better part of a decade, depending on adoption and coordination across wallets, exchanges and infrastructure providers.

The risk, developers say, is not only technological but organizational. Bitcoin has no central authority to mandate upgrades, and changes to its core protocol require agreement among a global set of participants with differing incentives.

Banking, traditional finance at risk as well

The issue also extends beyond cryptocurrency. The same class of cryptography secures banking systems, government communications and large parts of the internet. 

In theory, the same cryptographic systems that secure Bitcoin also underpin global banking infrastructure, payment networks and government communications. 

Google and cybersecurity agencies warned that attackers may already be collecting encrypted data today in anticipation of future quantum capabilities, a strategy known as “store now, decrypt later.”

Any viable quantum attack would not be isolated to crypto markets, but would extend across financial institutions and critical systems that rely on public-key encryption. Bitcoin is not uniquely vulnerable, but it is uniquely transparent. Its ledger makes exposure visible, and its open-source development model makes its response observable in real time.

Market reaction has remained muted so far, with prices largely unaffected by the latest research. 

This post Google’s New Quantum Research Reignites Push to Harden Bitcoin first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

Bitcoin Magazine

Labor Department Proposal Could Open 401(k)s to Bitcoin and Alternative Assets

The U.S. Department of Labor has unveiled a sweeping proposed rule that could significantly expand the range of investment options available in 401(k) retirement plans, marking a potential turning point for alternative assets — including crypto — within tax-advantaged retirement accounts.

Released Monday by the department’s Employee Benefits Security Administration, the proposal aims to reduce regulatory uncertainty and litigation risk for fiduciaries considering alternative investments. 

The move follows an executive order from Donald Trump directing agencies to “democratize access” to non-traditional assets in retirement portfolios.

At its core, the rule reinforces that fiduciary responsibility under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act is grounded in process rather than outcomes. 

Plan managers would retain broad discretion to include a wide array of investment options — provided they follow a prudent, well-documented evaluation process assessing factors such as fees, liquidity, valuation, and performance benchmarks.

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said the proposal is designed to align retirement investing with modern financial markets. “This greater diversity will drive innovation and result in a major win for American workers, retirees, and their families,” she said.

Bitcoin gets exposure

The guidance could open the door for increased exposure to digital assets like Bitcoin within 401(k) plans — a development long sought by segments of the crypto industry. While plan sponsors have technically always been permitted to consider such assets, regulatory ambiguity and prior guidance had a chilling effect.

In 2022, the Biden administration issued a compliance release cautioning fiduciaries against offering cryptocurrency in retirement plans, citing volatility and investor protection concerns. 

That stance is now being reversed, with Deputy Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling emphasizing neutrality. “The department’s days of picking winners and losers are over,” he said.

The proposal does not explicitly endorse crypto or any specific asset class. Instead, it establishes “safe harbor” frameworks designed to protect fiduciaries who undertake thorough due diligence when adding alternative investments to plan menus. 

This process-based approach could make it easier for asset managers to introduce diversified funds that include exposure to private equity, real estate, or digital assets or Bitcoin.

Assets like Bitcoin could enhance long-term returns and provide a hedge against inflation, particularly for younger savers with longer time horizons. 

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the U.S. Department of the Treasury both collaborated on the rulemaking, signaling a broader interagency effort to modernize retirement investing.

This post Labor Department Proposal Could Open 401(k)s to Bitcoin and Alternative Assets first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Micah Zimmerman.

Bitcoin rose back above $68,000 on March 31 after markets began to bet on a resolution to the Iran-US-Israel War and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran was prepared to end the war under certain conditions.

Data from CryptoSlate showed the broader crypto market added about $40 billion in value after the remarks. Bitcoin climbed nearly 2% to retake the $68,000 level, while Ethereum rose 3% to around $2,100.

The rebound marked a sharp reversal for digital assets, which had spent much of the past week under pressure as the conflict in the Middle East pushed investors toward oil, the dollar, and other traditional defensive trades.

The terms sought by Tehran were not immediately clear, leaving markets to react first to the possibility of de-escalation rather than to any concrete diplomatic framework.

Still, that uncertainty did little to slow the initial move across asset classes.

Iran war de-escalation lifts market

The Kobeissi Letter suggested that oil prices had fallen sharply by 5% in about three minutes today, because of unconfirmed comments from Pezeshkian. The post implies that algorithmic trading systems quickly seized on the headline. It said more than $1 trillion in market value moved across global markets within minutes as investors repriced the likelihood of a prolonged conflict.

Reports also surfaced yesterday of the PM making similar comments.

Today, US stocks also rallied rapidly at the same time, while the dollar fell by almost 1% on the DXY Dollar Index. The S&P 500 gained 2.5% on the day, adding about $1.4 trillion in market capitalization, as traders moved back into risk assets that had been battered by the surge in energy prices and fears of a wider regional disruption.

A WSJ article today follows directionally with Kobeissi's narrative, stating that President Trump is also keen on ending the war soon.

The reaction reflected how heavily the war had begun to weigh on financial markets before Tehran's latest remarks. Notably, oil prices have consistently traded above the $100 mark this month, with Brent crude on course for its biggest monthly gain on record, up 54% since the start of March.

That oil shock has become the central macro channel linking the conflict to crypto. Bitcoin and other digital assets have increasingly traded like broader risk-sensitive instruments during periods of rising yields, tighter financial conditions, and inflation anxiety.

As crude surged, investors worried that a longer disruption in Middle East energy flows would keep price pressures elevated, weaken growth, and reduce the room for central banks to ease policy.

Meanwhile, the economic stakes stretch well beyond financial markets.

The International Monetary Fund recently warned that a prolonged conflict that continues to choke flows through the Gulf would lead to higher prices and slower growth worldwide.

That view has shaped investor behavior across asset classes, with traders watching not just the battlefield but also the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints.

The post Bitcoin, stocks rally because of chatter that Iran is ready to ‘end the war’ as Dollar Index sinks below 100 appeared first on CryptoSlate.

Senate Banking is targeting the second half of April for a markup of the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, with Easter recess running through Apr. 13.

Senator Cynthia Lummis publicly confirmed the timetable, and Senator Bernie Moreno put the deadline plainly: missing the Senate floor by May could push serious digital asset legislation beyond the 2026 midterm cycle and close the window.

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Congress has only weeks left to convince banks on crypto CLARITY Act or risk losing it to midterms

Congress must resolve stablecoin yield impasse or leave it to regulatory interpretation amidst intense banking pressure.

Mar 16, 2026 · Oluwapelumi Adejumo

The five-step route from Banking Committee markup to floor vote, conference with the Agriculture Committee version, final passage, and presidential signature compresses the bill's timetable into a few weeks.

The stablecoin yield dispute that canceled the January markup now has a resolution in principle.

Senators Thom Tillis and Angela Alsobrooks reached a deal that Lummis described as 99% resolved. The framework would bar passive yield on held stablecoins while allowing activity-based rewards tied to payments, transfers, wallet use, and similar functions.

Alsobrooks described the compromise as one that would leave both sides “just a little bit unhappy.”

Senators still need to resolve new complications regarding community bank deregulation, ethics provisions for crypto-linked officials, and the treatment of DeFi before they can lock in the markup text.

The House passed CLARITY 294-134 in July 2025, and the GENIUS Act became law on the same month. The White House established the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve by executive order in March 2025.

The SEC and CFTC jointly clarified the treatment of crypto on Mar. 17. Together, those moves show the US building a policy stack that sorts digital-asset models by how well they fit within the American financial system.

CLARITY would close the largest legislative gap in that architecture, and Bitcoin sits at the top of that hierarchy.

Senate Banking's own framing says the bill would draw a bright line between digital asset securities and digital asset commodities, replace regulation-by-enforcement with a rule-based regime, and give the CFTC authority over spot markets for non-security digital assets.

Bitcoin already occupies the commodity lane in market convention, court rulings, and political symbolism. CLARITY would give that position statutory backing and deepen the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve's policy weight.

What the stablecoin squeeze does for Bitcoin

The stablecoin architecture now taking shape points toward a payments utility.

The GENIUS Act requires 100% reserve backing, monthly disclosures, and marketing rules that bar misleading claims about government backing, insurance, or legal-tender status.

Section 404 of the Senate CLARITY draft bars digital asset service providers from paying interest or yield solely for holding a payment stablecoin and blocks any marketing that frames stablecoin compensation as deposit-like, FDIC-insured, or risk-free.

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Will crypto rewards survive upcoming CLARITY law? A plain-English guide to Section 404

Under Section 404, the same stablecoin reward can look lawful or risky depending on whether it is framed as interest, a perk, a rebate, or a loyalty benefit.

Jan 25, 2026 · Andjela Radmilac

Activity-based rewards tied to transactions and platform participation stay on the table. The familiar pitch of holding a dollar-pegged token and collecting yield sits outside what either law authorizes.

That framework reshapes Bitcoin's narrative position. As Congress channels stablecoins toward regulated payments plumbing, Bitcoin stands out more clearly as the investable risk asset in US crypto markets.

Stablecoins see increased transaction volume and utility within the framework. They lose the quasi-savings economics that could otherwise compete for capital alongside a long-term Bitcoin position.

The market already priced that asymmetry in real time. Circle suffered a 20% selloff when the stablecoin reward-restriction language surfaced.

Coinbase's stablecoin revenue reached $364.1 million in the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2025, while Circle's reserve-income-linked business drove the bulk of its results. Traders treated the compensation limits as a direct hit to those business models.

Bitcoin’s value proposition runs through scarcity and commodity demand, a model Congress is leaving intact.

CoinGecko shows Bitcoin accounting for roughly 56% of the total crypto market capitalization, with stablecoins at about 13%.

JPMorgan analysts called CLARITY passage by midyear a positive catalyst for digital assets, citing regulatory clarity and institutional scaling. Polymarket placed 2026 signing odds at 72%.

Those readings show a market that expects a cleaner commodity designation to give institutions a cleaner rationale for Bitcoin exposure and to formalize a dominance structure already in place.

What a markup represents

In the bull case, Senate Banking marks up the bill in late April, and the full Senate treats it as the closing chapter of a coherent US digital asset framework.

Institutions read the SEC/CFTC bright line as a mandate to classify Bitcoin as a commodity for custody, portfolio construction, and product approval.

Bitcoin's market cap dominance extends from the mid-50s toward the 60% range as capital concentrates in the asset with the clearest legal and political fit. Stablecoins keep expanding as a payments infrastructure.

Congress constrains its yield economics while preserving its transaction utility. Altcoins gain process clarity and lose the gray-area optionality that once let projects defer classification.

In the bear case, CLARITY passes and distributes the benefits unevenly. Stablecoin-linked equities stay under pressure because compensation limits cut directly into business models built around yield sharing. Exchanges lose a marketing tool.

Altcoin projects face disclosure obligations and intermediary standards that favor incumbents over new entrants. Bitcoin outperforms on a relative basis while the broader crypto complex trades sideways or weaker.

The Circle selloff already offered a preview of how fast that separation can show up in the market.

Each outcome points to the same destination: Bitcoin exits the process in a stronger position than the rest of the market. If CLARITY passes, Washington will have chosen which crypto asset gets to look legitimate first, and Bitcoin holds the strongest claim to that role.

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CLARITY Act gets deadlock breakthrough that also opens the door to more Bitcoin demand

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Mar 21, 2026 · Gino Matos

The post CLARITY Act deadline in weeks could kill stablecoin earnings and push money into Bitcoin appeared first on CryptoSlate.

A new paper from Google Quantum AI has sharply reduced the estimated hardware required to crack elliptic-curve cryptography used by Bitcoin and much of Ethereum, moving a long-running security debate closer to market terms.

At current market prices, the quantum computing risks could affect more than $600 billion in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins.

The paper, co-authored by Google researchers, Ethereum Foundation researcher Justin Drake, and Stanford cryptographer Dan Boneh, says Shor’s algorithm for the 256-bit elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem can run with either no more than 1,200 logical qubits and 90 million Toffoli gates or no more than 1,450 logical qubits and 70 million Toffoli gates.

Google says those circuits could be executed on a superconducting, cryptographically relevant quantum computer with fewer than 500,000 physical qubits in a few minutes, roughly a 20-fold reduction from prior estimates of the number of physical qubits.

Notably, Google does not say such a machine exists today. Still, Ethereum Foundation's Drake said his confidence in a so-called Q-day by 2032 had risen sharply and that he now sees at least a 10% chance that a quantum computer could recover a secp256k1 private key from an exposed public key by then.

Meanwhile, Google paired the paper with an unusual disclosure model, revealing that it engaged with the US government and used a zero-knowledge proof so outsiders could verify the resource estimates without receiving the underlying attack circuits.

The paper says progress in quantum computing has reached the point where publishing improved attack details in full has become less prudent, even as publishing trustworthy resource estimates remains necessary to motivate defenses.

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As quantum ‘Q-Day' jumps to 2029, Ethereum faces a new fight over what to do with coins left in old wallets

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Mar 26, 2026 · Gino Matos

Bitcoin’s problem is partly a race and partly a stockpile

For Bitcoin, the paper’s immediate market hook is timing. It models an “on-spend” attack in which a quantum machine derives a private key after a user reveals a public key by broadcasting a transaction, then tries to syndicate a competing transaction before the original payment is confirmed.

The paper says a fast-clock superconducting machine could reduce the live attack window to about 9 minutes from a primed state, close to Bitcoin’s roughly 10-minute average block time.

Under the paper’s assumptions, that implies a theft success probability of slightly less than 41%.

Meanwhile, that is only one part of the Bitcoin story, as the paper pointed out that about 6.7 million BTC are sitting in vulnerable addresses. This is equivalent to roughly $444 billion, or nearly 32% of BTC's total cap of 21 million coins.

Of this, the paper says old Pay-to-Public-Key scripts still secure more than 1.7 million BTC, worth about $112.6 billion at current market price, and that the total amount of dormant quantum-vulnerable Bitcoin may reach 2.3 million BTC across script types, or about $152.3 billion.

Those coins cannot all be migrated simply by asking current users to move funds, because many are thought to be abandoned, lost, or otherwise inactive.

Apart from that, the authors also argue that Taproot, despite its benefits for privacy and flexibility, reintroduced a quantum weakness because Pay-to-Taproot places the tweaked public key directly in the locking script.

They added that Grover-based attacks on Bitcoin mining remain impractical for decades, keeping the near-term focus on signatures rather than proof of work.

That leaves Bitcoin with two distinct problems. One is the risk of live transactions if a future fast-clock machine can reliably break keys within the settlement window. The other is a large stock of older or exposed coins that could become fixed targets in a post-CRQC world.

The paper explicitly states that every existing Bitcoin transaction type is vulnerable to on-spend attacks from a future fast-clock machine, while older P2PK outputs and modern P2TR outputs introduce at-rest exposure of their own.

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Ethereum’s quantum risk runs through wallets, validators, and tokenized assets

Meanwhile, the quantum risks for Ethereum are presented differently.

The paper says early fast-clock quantum computers are unlikely to launch the same kind of on-spend attack there because Ethereum produces blocks in deterministic 12-second slots, processes most transactions in less than a minute, and already relies heavily on private mempools.

Instead, the main quantum threat lies in at-rest attacks against long-lived accounts and the systems attached to them.

The paper estimates that a fast-clock attacker could crack the 1,000 highest-net-worth Ethereum accounts, holding about 20.5 million ETH, in less than nine days. At Tuesday’s ETH price of about $2,023.46, that comes to roughly $41.5 billion.

Among the top 500 contract accounts by ETH balance, it says at least 70 accounts holding about 2.5 million ETH are exposed through administrative keys, a bucket worth about $5.1 billion at current prices, with a private-key derivation attack on those accounts taking less than 15 hours on a fast-clock machine.

Meanwhile, the larger institutional story sits behind those balances. The paper links that admin vulnerability to about $200 billion in stablecoins and tokenized real-world assets on Ethereum and says those keys can function as control points for issuers, bridges, oracle operators, and emergency guardians.

The paper warned that a successful quantum attack on such accounts could allow arbitrary minting, false price feeds, frozen user funds, or drained liquidity pools, depending on the system. The paper says this is why standard asset-balance models understate the true value-at-risk.

It then widens the lens further. In its Ethereum risk taxonomy, the paper flags about 15 million ETH in Layer 2 and protocol value exposed through code and data-availability vulnerabilities, equal to roughly $30.4 billion at current prices, and about 37 million ETH in consensus stake exposed through BLS-signature-related risk, or about $74.9 billion.

Those figures overlap with other components of Ethereum’s architecture, but together they show why the paper treats Ethereum as a broader infrastructure problem rather than a wallet-security story.

The pressure shifts from theory to migration

Against this backdrop, the industry is left to ask whether blockchains, wallets, exchanges, and tokenized-asset issuers can migrate before the economics of attack shift.

Charles Guillemet, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Ledger, said:

“The good news is that we already have the tools: Post Quantum Cryptography, now we need to migrate.”

However, the Google paper says the process will take years, and the industry cannot wait for perfect clarity on the exact arrival date of cryptographically relevant quantum computers.

According to the firm, it will require both protocol work and changes in wallet behavior, including reducing public-key exposure and ending key reuse wherever possible.

Essentially, vulnerable cryptocurrency communities should move to post-quantum cryptography without delay.

For Bitcoin, that means a race against a settlement window that no longer looks comfortably wide. For Ethereum, it means protecting not just coins but the much larger stack of contracts and tokenized claims now resting on the same vulnerable math.

The post Google slashes quantum cracking estimates by 20X creating $600 billion countdown for Bitcoin and Ethereum appeared first on CryptoSlate.

Bitcoin enters April with a price carrying the weight of macro conditions, corporate balance sheets, and the credibility of the public wrappers built around it.

CryptoSlate has already laid out the broad structure: public equities created a new channel for balance-sheet demand, the premium on that demand opened the door to further issuance, and the cycle began feeding itself.

Later coverage on slowing purchase volumes and the economics of being underwater on treasury holdings narrowed the focus to which companies could keep financing the trade once price and sentiment turned less forgiving.

New disclosures around the Bitcoin treasury company, Nakamoto, sharpen that focus.

Bitcoin treasury company sells Bitcoin at a loss

Bitcoin is currently trading around $66,200 on March 31, while NAKA changed hands near $0.21, leaving the company with an equity market capitalization close to $8.1 million. Back in May 2025, the stock hit an all-time high of $34.77, then declined to around $8 by the start of September and to $0.93 by the end of October.

The spread between the underlying asset and the wrapper around it now defines the discussion.

The coin still trades as a globally recognized liquidity instrument. The stock trades like a distressed claim on a strategy whose financing assumptions no longer command the same confidence.

That gap grew more consequential after figures from Nakamoto’s March 30 annual filing circulated across crypto markets.

In a post from Wu Blockchain, later amplified by Justin Bechler, the company disclosed that it sold approximately 284 BTC in March for about $20 million, at an average sale price of $70,422 per coin, after net purchasing 5,342 BTC in 2025 at a weighted average price of $118,171.

Thus, a company that promoted Bitcoin treasury accumulation realized a sale at a price deep below the weighted average price from its prior buying campaign.

That change resets the economic lens. Unrealized losses fit inside the treasury-company model. They sit on the balance sheet, pressure equity valuations, and challenge access to capital, yet they still leave the company positioned for recovery if Bitcoin stabilizes and funding windows reopen.

Realized selling changes the sequence. It reduces the treasury, crystallizes the gap between acquisition cost and exit value, and invites a harder assessment of how management intends to fund operations, defend the stock, and preserve any premium the wrapper once carried.

NAKA stands as the clearest stress case because the company has also spent recent months expanding its corporate footprint.

In February, Nakamoto completed its acquisition of BTC Inc. and UTXO Management, issuing roughly 364.8 million shares in an all-stock transaction valued at around $81.6 million based on a February 19 closing price of $0.248.

That deal gave the company a larger role inside Bitcoin media, events, and advisory infrastructure.

It also tied the public wrapper more closely to the institutional Bitcoin narrative at precisely the point when the equity itself had already lost most of the market value investors once assigned to that narrative.

Bechler’s separate March 30 post on X pushed that credibility question further, pointing to insider ownership, the absence of open-market insider buying, the lack of recent treasury growth, and the stock’s collapse from prior levels.

Social posts do not settle filing-level questions like “Is this a managed treasury adjustment, or the first visible sign of funding stress?”, but they do shape how the market processes the capital structure.

In this case, the reaction is straightforward. Bitcoin remains the core asset.

The public vehicle around it has entered a phase where every treasury move, every financing choice, and every disclosure is being tested against survivability rather than ambition.

Macro pressure defines the week ahead, and Bitcoin treasury companies have to finance through it

The timing here raises the stakes because the first week of April puts Bitcoin back inside a dense macro calendar.

The March employment report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics arrives on Friday, April 3. U.S. equity markets are closed that day for Good Friday.

The combination produces a strange mix, one of the month’s most important macro releases landing into a holiday-shortened market structure with thinner price discovery across related assets.

Treasury wrappers tied to Bitcoin enter that window from a position of already elevated fragility.

Beyond payrolls, the market also has the Federal Reserve’s minutes from the March 17 to 18 FOMC meeting due on April 8.

That release will shape the rates discussion around growth, labor, inflation persistence, and the threshold for any policy adjustment later in the quarter.

For Bitcoin itself, those discussions often feed through the familiar channels, dollar liquidity, real yields, broad risk appetite, and institutional portfolio construction.

For treasury companies, the channel is even tighter because the effect shows up directly in financing costs, dilution sensitivity, and equity market willingness to keep underwriting balance-sheet accumulation.

Energy adds another layer.

Euro-area inflation rose to 2.5% in March from 1.9% in February, with energy costs driving the acceleration as the conflict involving Iran disrupted flows through the Gulf. Brent crude also reached roughly $106 a barrel during the escalation.

Bitcoin rarely trades in isolation during those episodes.

The asset gets pulled into a broader repricing of inflation expectations, growth concerns, and cross-asset liquidity.

Treasury companies tied to Bitcoin then absorb a second layer of pressure because the same macro shift raises the hurdle for equity issuance and compresses the market’s willingness to pay a premium over net asset value.

That is the economic climate for the week ahead, and the issue sits in the overlap between inflation risk and funding discipline.

A treasury company can carry a large Bitcoin reserve through volatility if it holds enough cash, commands enough investor trust, or retains access to external capital on acceptable terms.

Once those buffers weaken, each macro shock forces a narrower set of choices.

The equity can dilute at lower prices.

The balance sheet can tighten spending.

Treasury assets can be sold.

Management can seek a new corporate action to reset optics and compliance.

Under those conditions, Bitcoin itself remains the center of gravity because every treasury wrapper ultimately resolves back to the coin.

The corporate layer still affects market structure, especially when public companies aggregate demand at scale.

The weekly question now runs in the opposite direction.

Instead of asking how much Bitcoin public companies can absorb, the market is starting to ask how much stress those companies can absorb before their treasury becomes a source of supply.

That threshold carries wider consequences because it changes the direction of the flow.

Accumulation supports the institutional Bitcoin narrative.

Realized sales at steep losses introduce a new variable, forced or strategic distribution from the very vehicles built to represent long-duration conviction.

Nakamoto sharpens the next test for Bitcoin as the wrapper trades on durability, liquidity, and trust

Nakamoto’s position does not cover the entire sector, but a company built around a Bitcoin treasury strategy, which later expanded through the acquisition of Bitcoin-native operating businesses, has now been associated with a disclosed BTC sale far below its prior weighted average purchase price, while the equity trades near twenty-one cents.

That combination creates a sharper view of where the treasury model stands after the first wave of enthusiasm.

The premium era rewarded ambition, scale, and proximity to Bitcoin.

The current phase rewards durability, financing discipline, and the ability to preserve treasury optionality during stress.

That is why Bitcoin remains the correct focal point. The coin still provides the reference value for the whole trade.

A balance-sheet strategy only works if the market believes the treasury can be maintained, financed, and eventually leveraged into a stronger capital-markets position.

The moment the wrapper begins shrinking its Bitcoin stack into weakness, investors start valuing the company through a different lens.

Future upside from Bitcoin still exists.

The route to that upside becomes more conditional. Execution, liquidity, and trust move closer to the center of valuation.

Recent CryptoSlate coverage already prepared the groundwork for that transition. Public companies doubled Bitcoin holdings in 2024, and later reporting showed how aggressive corporate accumulation changed the supply picture.

The 2025 phase still carried that momentum. Then the data on slumping purchase volumes suggested a slower marginal buyer.

The latest Nakamoto disclosures bring another layer, weaker wrappers may now be moving from a world of paper losses into a world of realized sales.

That distinction has operational meaning for every investor trying to map where treasury-company demand sits in the current cycle.

None of this requires dramatic language. The capital structure already says enough.

A stock at $0.21 with a market cap around $8.1 million and a public identity tied to Bitcoin treasury expansion enters a much harder conversation once treasury reduction appears in the annual filing.

Social commentary has already drifted toward delisting speculation, reverse-split expectations, and questions around insider alignment.

The market is repricing the quality of the wrapper, and repricing it fast. The next test now sits in plain view.

If Bitcoin steadies, stronger treasury companies with cleaner balance sheets and broader financing access may keep their premium and continue absorbing supply.

If macro pressure persists and funding windows stay narrow, the market could begin separating the cohort into two groups, vehicles that can hold through the cycle, and vehicles that have to manage through it by selling coin, issuing equity from a position of weakness, or restructuring the capital stack.

Nakamoto has pushed that distinction closer to the surface.

Bitcoin remains the focal asset.

The public company ecosystem built around Bitcoin has entered a phase where conviction has to be funded, not simply declared.

The post Bitcoin treasury company sells $20M BTC at a loss as its stock collapses after buying at $118k appeared first on CryptoSlate.

The first Form 1099-DA season is arriving for US crypto investors with a basic problem: many people are getting the new IRS form before they understand what it actually tells them.

A Coinbase and CoinTracker survey of 3,000 US crypto users found that 61% were unaware of the new 2025 reporting rules, even though 74% said they knew crypto activity can be taxable and 56% rated their own knowledge of crypto tax rules as good or excellent.

That gap comes as the IRS begins receiving more standardized data on digital-asset sales handled by brokers. Treasury and the IRS require brokers to report gross proceeds on Form 1099-DA for digital-asset sales effected in 2025, with basis reporting on covered securities starting in 2026.

The IRS has also told taxpayers that most 2025 statements will not include basis, meaning the form can show that a sale happened without doing the work needed to determine the actual gain or loss.

For many investors, that turns a new information return into a false sense of completeness. The IRS says Form 1099-DA is used by brokers to report proceeds from, and in some cases basis for, digital-asset dispositions to both the taxpayer and the government.

It also says taxpayers must report all income, gains, and losses from digital-asset transactions, whether or not they receive the form, and must calculate the basis before filing.

Related Reading

Refusing new IRS crypto tax forms could cost you your exchange account

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Mar 7, 2026 · Gino Matos

A new form, but not a finished tax answer

The transition-year structure is what makes the first filing season unusually easy to misread. A taxpayer who bought Bitcoin on one exchange, moved it to self-custody, later transferred part of it to another platform, and sold there may receive a Form 1099-DA showing the disposal proceeds.

However, if the asset was transferred in from another broker or wallet, the form may not carry the basis information needed to calculate the real taxable result.

Tax practitioners writing in The Tax Adviser said taxpayers may receive Forms 1099-DA without basis for assets transferred in from another broker or self-custody wallet, for sales on some noncustodial platforms, and for assets bought before 2026 that are not treated as covered securities.

That is why tax specialists are warning taxpayers not to treat the document like a completed brokerage statement. Jonathan Cutler, a Deloitte senior manager, reportedly said the 2025 form is mainly a signal that the taxpayer transacted in crypto, while adding that taxpayers “really need their own records to be tight.”

The IRS has made the same point in plainer terms. Its guidance says taxpayers should use Form 1099-DA together with their other records and that they must calculate basis before filing. It also notes that taxpayers transacting through foreign brokers may not receive a Form 1099-DA from those brokers even when the transactions remain taxable in the United States.

Where investors are getting tripped up

Meanwhile, the Coinbase and CoinTracker survey data suggests the confusion is not limited to basis, as it found that only 49% of respondents correctly said a tax event is triggered when crypto is sold.

Another 41% said tax is triggered when crypto is transferred to a bank, 36% thought tax applies only once profits rise above a threshold, and 22% thought a transfer from another account is itself the trigger.

At the same time, users reported an average of 2.5 platforms or wallets, 83% said they use self-custodial wallets, and 71% said they had transferred assets between wallets or platforms.

The new IRS guidance runs against the cash-out logic still common among retail traders.

The agency treats digital assets as property for federal income-tax purposes and its Form 1099-DA guidance says taxpayers can receive the form when they dispose of digital assets for dollars, exchange them for another digital asset, use them to pay for goods or services in any amount, or use digital assets to pay broker transaction costs.

The IRS FAQ on virtual currency also says a taxpayer generally recognizes gain or loss when virtual currency is sold for real currency.

That leaves a market full of investors who broadly know crypto can be taxable but still misunderstand when taxable events arise and what records the IRS expects them to keep.

The Coinbase’s survey found that 76% of respondents knew cost-basis adjustments may be required, but only 35% said they had actually made those adjustments in the past.

Shehan Chandrasekera, Head of Tax Strategy at CoinTracker, said:

“While crypto brokerages will provide 1099-DA forms this tax year, users are responsible for correctly computing their cost basis, holding period and actual gains or losses. This cost basis issue is uniquely hard to solve.”

Visibility rises before compliance catches up

The reporting push reflects a wider belief that the old system captured only part of the market. A 2026 paper in Review of Accounting Studies using IRS data found the agency appeared to observe only 32% to 56% of US cryptocurrency owners.

A separate NBER paper using Norwegian data found that 88% of crypto holders failed to declare holdings or gains, and that even among investors using domestic exchanges that shared identifiable data with tax authorities, 80% still failed to declare.

Meanwhile, the current stricter scrutiny could changes crypto investors' behavior before it fully closes the tax gap. An NBER study on crypto tax-loss harvesting found that increased tax scrutiny pushed investors toward more legal tax planning and affected preferences for US-based exchanges.

That lines up with what practitioners are seeing in the first 1099-DA season, where missing or incomplete basis has forced accountants into what Accounting Today described as forensic reconciliation against client-maintained records rather than simple form-matching.

For U.S. investors filing this year, the immediate lesson is narrower and more practical. Form 1099-DA gives the IRS a cleaner view of many 2025 crypto sales. However, it does not, by itself, settle the tax bill.

Taxpayers still have to prove what they paid, where the asset moved, how long they held it and whether the disposal produced a gain, a loss or something much smaller than the proceeds figure shown on the form.

Until those records are reconciled, the government may see the sale more clearly than the investor can explain the profit.

The post The new IRS crypto tax form can flag your sale before you prove what you actually owe appeared first on CryptoSlate.

Markets Are Rallying on War-End Hopes

Global markets are currently experiencing a strong relief rally, driven by signals that tensions between the US and Iran could de-escalate.

Stocks surged across the board:

• The S&P 500 jumped over 2%
• Nasdaq and Dow followed with strong gains
• Trillions were added to global market capitalization

At the same time, crypto reacted positively:

• Bitcoin ($BTC) reclaimed the $68,000 level
• Ethereum ($ETH) pushed back above $2,100
• Altcoins showed short-term recovery

👉 On the surface, this looks like the beginning of a sustained recovery.

But the reality is far more fragile.

Why the Crypto Market Is Surging Right Now — and What Could Go Wrong

The current move is not being driven by improving fundamentals.

Instead, markets are reacting to a single dominant expectation:

👉 The war might end soon.

This creates a classic “risk-on” environment:

• Investors move back into equities
• Crypto benefits from renewed liquidity
• Volatility temporarily declines

However, this rally is built on expectation — not confirmation.

And that makes it extremely vulnerable.

The Hidden Threat That Could Crash the Crypto Market

While headlines focus on de-escalation, a major risk is quietly building:

👉 Iran has threatened to target major US companies operating in the Middle East.

This shifts the situation from geopolitical tension to:

👉 Economic and corporate disruption

If pursued, the consequences could extend far beyond the region.

Why This Threat Matters for Stocks

The companies at risk represent:

• A large share of the S&P 500
• Core drivers of Nasdaq performance
• Critical global supply chains

If disruptions occur, markets could react immediately:

• Tech stocks could sell off sharply
• Investor confidence could weaken
• Risk premiums could spike

👉 This would likely trigger a broader market pullback.

Oil Prices: The Key Trigger for a Crypto Crash

The most important variable in this situation is energy.

If tensions escalate:

• Oil prices surge
• Inflation fears return
• Liquidity tightens

👉 This directly pressures the crypto market.

At the moment, crypto is behaving like a risk asset, not a safe haven.

What Happens to Bitcoin and Altcoins Next?

Short-Term Reaction

If escalation headlines emerge:

• Bitcoin ($BTC) could drop quickly
• Ethereum ($ETH) would likely follow
• Altcoins could see sharper losses

This reflects crypto’s growing correlation with traditional markets.

The Second Phase to Watch

If the situation intensifies:

• Confidence in traditional markets may weaken
• Investors may seek alternative stores of value

👉 This could allow Bitcoin to stabilize and potentially recover after the initial drop.

Key Signals Investors Should Monitor

This market is now highly sensitive to headlines.

Watch closely for:

• Any confirmed targeting of US corporate assets
• Sudden spikes in oil prices
• Official geopolitical statements shifting tone

👉 These events could rapidly reverse the current rally.

A Market Pricing “Perfect Conditions”

Right now, markets are pricing:

• De-escalation
• Stable energy prices
• Improving liquidity

But if this scenario fails:

👉 The downside reaction could be fast and aggressive.

Conclusion: A Fragile Rally with Real Risk

The crypto market is rising on optimism — but that optimism is not yet supported by reality.

👉 If corporate threats become real, the current rally could unwind within hours.

For investors, this is a critical moment:

The next move will not be driven by charts — but by headlines.

$BTC, $ETH

A recent research development from Google has sparked serious concerns across the crypto industry. The paper suggests that breaking modern cryptographic systems may require far fewer quantum resources than previously estimated.

This has reignited a long-standing debate: could quantum computing eventually break Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies?

What the New Quantum Research Claims

What’s been going around the market lately is pretty eye-catching:

• Some are saying cryptographic systems might be breakable with around 500,000 qubits—much lower than older estimates
• In theory, an attack could take minutes instead of hours
• High-value wallets, especially older ones, might be at risk sooner than people thought

It’s still being debated, so nothing is confirmed. But it does point to one thing: quantum computing seems to be moving faster than most expected.

How Real Is the Threat to Bitcoin and Ethereum?

To understand the risk, it’s important to look at how major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are secured.

Both rely on public-key cryptography, which could theoretically be broken by a sufficiently powerful quantum computer using algorithms like Shor’s algorithm.

However, there are important caveats:

• Today’s quantum computers are still far from the required scale
• Real-world attacks would require stable, error-corrected systems (not yet available)
• Many wallets use additional layers of security beyond basic encryption

👉 Bottom line: the threat is not immediate—but no longer theoretical either.

Bitcoin Developers Are Already Responding

In response to growing concerns, developers within the Bitcoin community are actively working on solutions.

A new Bitcoin Improvement Proposal (BIP) is reportedly in development, aimed at making the network resistant to quantum attacks.

Key developments include:

• Early-stage testnets for quantum-resistant upgrades
• Exploration of post-quantum cryptography
• Discussions on how to safely migrate existing wallets

This shows that the ecosystem is not ignoring the threat—but preparing for it.

What Happens If Quantum Attacks Become Real?

If quantum computing reaches the required level, the impact could be massive:

Potential Risks

• Old Bitcoin wallets (especially exposed public keys) could be compromised
• Large ETH wallets could become targets
• Market panic could trigger sharp sell-offs

But Also Opportunities

• New quantum-resistant blockchains could emerge
• Existing networks could upgrade and become even stronger
• Security innovation would accelerate across the industry

Timeline: Do We Really Have 3 Years?

Some estimates suggest the crypto industry has around 3–5 years to prepare before quantum computers become a real threat.

However, timelines in deep tech are notoriously unpredictable. Breakthroughs can happen suddenly—or take much longer than expected.

👉 This uncertainty is exactly why developers are acting early.

Should Investors Be Worried?

From a research and risk perspective:

Reasons Not to Panic

• Quantum computers are not yet powerful enough
• Crypto communities are actively developing solutions
• Upgrades can be implemented over time

Reasons to Pay Attention

• The pace of innovation is accelerating
• Security assumptions are being challenged
• Long-term holders could face new risks

Cardano ($ADA) has had a rough ride this year. Over the past 12 months, it’s dropped more than 60%, with 2026 alone already seeing a 26% decline. Many investors are asking themselves: is Cardano finished, or is it just undervalued?

The truth isn’t so clear-cut.

Sure, the price looks weak, but it’s not just Cardano—macro pressures are weighing on the entire crypto market. Rising geopolitical tensions, especially the ongoing conflict in Iran, are shaking risk assets across the board.

Still, crypto has shown it can hold up under stress. Often, during times like these, markets go into a “wait-and-see” mode rather than collapse outright, giving projects like Cardano room to recover.

Cardano Price Analysis: What the Chart Is Telling Us

Looking at the below daily chart, the trend is clearly bearish—but with signs of stabilization.

Key Observations

• ADA has been in a long-term downtrend since mid-2025
• Price is currently consolidating around $0.24–$0.25 support
• Lower highs confirm continued selling pressure
• RSI is neutral (~40–45), suggesting no strong momentum yet

Important Levels to Watch

Support zones:

• $0.24 → critical short-term support
• $0.21 → next major downside target if breakdown occurs 

Resistance zones:

• $0.30 → first breakout level
• $0.40 → strong resistance zone
• $0.55 → macro trend reversal level

Right now, $Cardano is trading in a compression phase, often a precursor to a big move.

Iran War Impact on Crypto: Why ADA Is Struggling

The current geopolitical situation is playing a major role.

• Oil price spikes and inflation fears are reducing risk appetite
• Altcoins like ADA are typically hit harder than Bitcoin
• Market volatility is preventing clear bullish momentum 

Bullish Scenario: Cardano Recovery Targets in 2026

If market conditions improve—or if the war de-escalates—Cardano could recover faster than many expect.

Short-Term Recovery Targets

• $0.30 → first breakout confirmation
• $0.42–$0.58 → relief rally zone after macro stabilization 

Mid-Term Targets (2026)

• $0.50–$0.67 → realistic range based on analyst forecasts 
• ~$0.41+ → conservative baseline if downtrend ends 

Long-Term Potential

Some models suggest:

• $2+ possible by 2030 with strong adoption 
• Even $3+ in a strong bull cycle with regulation clarity 

👉 Bottom line: Cardano is not dead—but it needs a macro tailwind + market cycle shift.

Bearish Scenario: What If the Downtrend Continues?

If the Iran war escalates or macro conditions worsen, ADA could still drop further.

Downside Risks

• Breakdown below $0.24 → confirms bearish continuation
• $0.21 → next key support (~20% downside) 
• Sub-$0.20 → possible in extreme risk-off environment

Weak demand and declining trading activity are already visible in the market.

Is Cardano Still a Good Investment?

From an analytical standpoint:

Strengths

• Strong academic and research-driven blockchain
• Active development and roadmap (Voltaire phase, governance) 
• Long-term ecosystem growth potential

Weaknesses

• Weak price momentum
• Strong competition (Solana, Ethereum L2s)
• High dependence on overall crypto market cycles

The crypto market is going through a major phase of institutional accumulation right now. A good example: by the end of March 2026, Bitmine Immersion Technologies has staked a huge 3.31 million ETH.

That’s worth roughly $6.7 billion—and it’s not a small bet. Moves like this go beyond simple treasury management. It’s a strong signal that big players still see Ethereum as undervalued, especially when you look at how much the network is actually used and the fact that it can generate yield on top.

Bitmine’s "Digital Asset Treasury" Strategy

Bitmine has transitioned from a traditional mining firm into a sophisticated "Digital Asset Treasury" powerhouse. The firm’s long-term strategy, often discussed in institutional circles as the "Alchemy of 5%," aims to eventually control 5% of the total Ethereum supply.

By staking 3.31 million ETH, Bitmine has become one of the largest individual entities securing the network. This strategy treats $ETH not just as a speculative asset, but as a productive capital asset. By moving these tokens into staking protocols, Bitmine is effectively creating a "corporate bond" equivalent for the blockchain era, generating consistent yield while betting on the long-term appreciation of the underlying asset.

What is Staking and why is it Important

Staking helps keep Ethereum secure without using a lot of energy. By locking up your tokens, you're acting as a digital "guard" for the network. It’s a win-win: the blockchain gets the validation it needs to stay decentralized, and you earn rewards like new ETH and fee tips for your participation.

The Impact of 3.31 Million ETH Locked

• Network Security: Bitmine now controls a significant portion of the validator set via its MAVAN (Made in America VAlidator Network) platform, contributing to the decentralization and security of the Ethereum network.
• Massive Yield Generation: At current staking rates, this multi-billion dollar position generates hundreds of millions of dollars in annual revenue. This "organic" income is independent of market volatility, providing the firm with a robust balance sheet.
• The Supply Squeeze: By removing over 3 million tokens from the tradable supply, Bitmine is contributing to an illiquidity event. When large amounts of ETH are locked in staking, the "circulating" supply on exchanges drops, which can lead to explosive price moves if demand increases.

Why Institutional Data Suggests ETH is "Insanely Undervalued"

Despite the multi-billion dollar valuation of Bitmine’s holdings, many analysts argue that the current $Ethereum price is still far below its fair market value. The argument for ETH being undervalued hinges on several fundamental pillars:

Market leaders point to historical "V-shaped" recoveries, noting that Ethereum has frequently outperformed $Bitcoin in the late stages of a bull cycle. With the bridge between Wall Street and on-chain yield now fully established, the current price levels are increasingly viewed as a high-conviction entry point for long-term holders.

Ethereum Future and the Path to New Highs

If Bitmine and other institutional players continue to lock up massive quantities of ETH, the upward pressure could become unsustainable for bears. The "Triple Halving" effect—the combination of reduced issuance, fee burning, and massive staking—is creating a supply-demand imbalance that hasn't been fully priced in yet.

Global markets are starting to split in a noticeable way. The “Magnificent 7”—Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, Nvidia, and Tesla—have lost around $5 trillion in market value from their peaks. The Nasdaq is under pressure as AI hype cools and geopolitical tensions rise, pushing investors to look for safer ground.

What’s surprising is that crypto has held up relatively well so far. While big tech valuations are getting squeezed, Bitcoin and Ethereum have stayed fairly stable. Still, the strong link between tech stocks and crypto hasn’t gone away—so it’s probably a matter of when, not if, crypto reacts.

The $5 Trillion Tech Wipeout: A "Magnificent" Retreat

The sell-off in Big Tech has been nothing short of historic. Since hitting a combined valuation peak of roughly $20 trillion in late 2025, the leading seven stocks have entered a significant correction phase.

According to recent reports from Bloomberg, this $5 trillion wipeout is fueled by a "market rotation" away from overextended AI valuations and into cyclical sectors like energy and infrastructure. The outbreak of conflict in the Middle East has further pressured these giants, as rising oil prices threaten to keep interest rates "higher for longer."

Why Crypto Prices Are Stable Today

Despite the sell-off on Wall Street, Bitcoin is holding up relatively well. As of March 30, 2026, it’s trading in the $66,400–$67,500 range. Ethereum (ETH) is hovering around $2,050, showing a slight bounce from its recent lows.

This stability is largely due to:

1. Institutional HODLing: Spot ETFs have changed the market structure. Major allocators are treating Bitcoin as a long-term asset rather than a speculative trade.
2. Supply Constraints: Post-halving dynamics are fully in play, with exchange balances at multi-year lows.
3. Regulatory Clarity: Recent SEC and CFTC guidance classifying major assets as "digital commodities" has provided a floor for institutional confidence.

Crypto Prediction: Is the "Lagging" Crash Coming?

While crypto looks like a "hero" today, historical data serves as a stern warning. The 30-day correlation between Bitcoin and the Nasdaq 100 has recently hovered near 0.80, its highest level in years.

Historically, when a massive deleveraging event occurs in tech, crypto follows with a delay. As institutional investors face losses in their equity portfolios, they often liquidate "liquid" assets like Bitcoin to cover margin calls or rebalance risk. If the Magnificent 7 continue their slide toward a formal bear market (a 20% drop), we could see a "liquidity flush" in crypto that sends BTC toward the $58,000 support zone.

Crypto Price Today (March 30, 2026)

• Bitcoin ($BTC): $67,250 (+1.8% in 24h)
• Ethereum ($ETH): $2,058 (+3.6% in 24h)
• Solana ($SOL): $135 (+1.9% in 24h)
• $XRP: $1.35 (+1.2% in 24h)

Analysis: Will Cryptos Crash?

The current stability in crypto is a testament to its maturing market structure, but it would be premature to declare a total "decoupling" from tech. Traders should keep a close eye on $65,800 for Bitcoin; a break below this level would likely signal that the $5 trillion tech wipeout is finally spilling over into the digital asset space.

Stocks are surging while Bitcoin and Ethereum hit their highest prices in days after Iran's president said he's looking to end the conflict.

The Tether-backed USAT stablecoin built for the U.S. market has expanded to Ethereum layer-2 network Celo with help from Google Cloud.

Claude Code exposed: Anthropic is scrambling to contain the leak, but the AI coding agent is spreading far and wide and being picked apart.

Standard Chartered says stablecoin velocity has doubled in two years, driven by USDC's new use cases in TradFi and AI payments.

The BlackRock-backed firm has a clear path toward pressuring financial incumbents, according Benchmark’s Mark Palmer.

Solana's downtrend against Ethereum deepens, but indicators suggest that a reversal might not be far away.

Ripple enters another major partnership with Convera as it continues to push for crypto cross-border payments among enterprises across the globe.

Franklin Templeton Director Tony Pecore forecasts a "very positive year" for Bitcoin in 2026, with a new all-time high possible if only regulators or policy do not trigger headwinds.

Binance founder raises question about Satoshi Nakamoto's one million BTC coins, weighing in on the impact of quantum computing on crypto.

Ripple's RLUSD supply plummets by $128 million during a major Q1 closing. Is the stablecoin shrinking by design or demand?

Key Takeaways

• Shares of McCormick declined 5.70% to $50.66 following solid first-quarter results

• Positive earnings surprise overshadowed by anxieties surrounding Unilever Foods deal

• Proposed Unilever Foods acquisition sparks investor concerns about leverage expansion

• Top-line growth surges 17% while sluggish organic expansion dampens enthusiasm

• Early trading weakness reflects market hesitation despite improved margins and efficiency

Shares of McCormick & Company (MKC) experienced a significant downturn even after delivering impressive quarterly performance that exceeded Wall Street forecasts. The stock retreated 5.70% to close at $50.66 amid persistent selling pressure and consolidation at the lower end of the session’s trading range. This weakness emerged following pre-opening losses linked to acquisition-related anxieties and concerns about financial leverage.

McCormick & Company, Incorporated, MKC

Impressive Quarter Insufficient to Prop Up Stock Value

The spice and seasoning manufacturer disclosed first-quarter 2026 revenues totaling $1.87 billion, outpacing analyst projections of $1.79 billion. Adjusted profit per share came in at $0.66, topping consensus estimates of $0.61 and demonstrating continued operational strength. Despite these positive metrics, investor sentiment remained bearish, highlighting a gap between underlying business performance and market valuation.

Total sales climbed 17% compared to the same period last year, bolstered by strategic acquisitions and positive foreign exchange impacts. However, organic revenue growth registered a modest 1.2% increase, primarily attributable to price adjustments implemented across various product lines. The Consumer division exhibited robust performance, while the Flavor Solutions unit recorded steady advancement with marginal improvements.

The company’s operating profit totaled $228 million, marginally above the prior year’s $225 million result. On an adjusted basis, operating income increased to $268 million, showcasing enhanced profitability and effective expense management. Gross margin expansion was evident, supported by strategic pricing initiatives and operational efficiency measures, even as commodity input costs presented headwinds.

Acquisition News Catalyzes Negative Market Response

Management unveiled plans to combine operations with Unilever Foods, forming a merged enterprise projected to generate roughly $20 billion in yearly revenue. This strategic move introduced worries regarding elevated debt ratios and operational integration challenges upon deal completion. Shares tumbled 7.15% during premarket hours to $49.88 in response to the merger disclosure.

The strategic combination seeks to create greater business scale, broaden the product portfolio, and fortify worldwide distribution capabilities. Company leadership anticipates adjusted operating margins will reach between 23% and 25% following successful integration. Nevertheless, the substantial debt burden associated with financing the transaction sparked immediate investor apprehension about near-term financial flexibility.

The company has pursued growth through its purchase of McCormick de Mexico, which delivered meaningful contributions to overall revenue performance. Rigorous expense discipline and operational optimization initiatives supported profitability gains throughout business segments. Management reaffirmed its full-year 2026 guidance, maintaining expectations for consistent expansion and continued margin enhancement.

The post McCormick (MKC) Stock Tumbles 5.7% as Unilever Foods Merger Overshadows Q1 Beat appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Takeaways

• MKC shares tumble 5.70% to $50.66 following Unilever Foods merger announcement

• Strong Q1 results overshadowed by investor concerns regarding acquisition debt load

• $20 billion combined entity raises questions about financial leverage and execution

• 17% revenue surge offset by modest 1.2% organic sales growth

• Early trading signals investor wariness despite improved margins and earnings surprise

Shares of McCormick & Company (MKC) experienced a significant downturn despite delivering first-quarter results that exceeded Wall Street forecasts. The stock retreated 5.70% to close at $50.66, pressured by a pronounced intraday selloff and consolidation near the day’s low. The downturn stemmed from premarket weakness linked to strategic acquisition concerns and heightened leverage worries.

McCormick & Company, Incorporated, MKC

Quarterly Results Outperform Estimates Amid Negative Investor Sentiment

The Baltimore-based spice and seasonings company posted first-quarter 2026 revenue of $1.87 billion, comfortably topping analyst projections of $1.79 billion. Adjusted profit per share came in at $0.66, beating consensus estimates of $0.61 and demonstrating solid operational performance. Despite these favorable metrics, market participants responded with selling pressure, highlighting a divergence between financial results and share price momentum.

Total net sales climbed 17% compared to the same period last year, bolstered by recent acquisitions and positive foreign exchange effects. Organic revenue expansion remained subdued at 1.2%, primarily attributable to strategic pricing adjustments throughout the product portfolio. The Consumer business segment posted robust growth momentum, while the Flavor Solutions division registered steady performance with incremental progress.

The company generated operating income of $228 million, edging above the prior year’s $225 million level. On an adjusted basis, operating income advanced to $268 million, showcasing enhanced profitability and effective expense discipline. Gross margin improvement resulted from pricing initiatives and operational efficiency measures, even as commodity cost pressures persisted.

Strategic Acquisition Triggers Sharp Stock Decline

McCormick unveiled plans to merge with Unilever Foods, forming a combined operation with roughly $20 billion in yearly revenue. The strategic move sparked immediate investor apprehension regarding elevated debt ratios and operational integration challenges. Shares plummeted 7.15% during premarket hours to $49.88 as traders digested the merger implications.

Management outlined strategic rationale centered on achieving greater scale, broadening the product portfolio, and fortifying worldwide distribution capabilities. Leadership projects adjusted operating margins will reach between 23% and 25% following deal completion. Nevertheless, the substantial debt burden accompanying the transaction generated short-term balance sheet concerns among shareholders.

The company has pursued growth through its McCormick de Mexico acquisition, which meaningfully contributed to top-line expansion. Focused expense management and productivity enhancements drove margin gains across business units. Fiscal 2026 guidance remained intact, reaffirming management’s confidence in sustained revenue growth and profitability enhancement trajectories.

The post McCormick (MKC) Stock Plunges 5.7% as Unilever Foods Deal Overshadows Earnings Beat appeared first on Blockonomi.

Key Highlights

• BitGo introduces integrated platform consolidating crypto lending and borrowing operations
• New system features portfolio-based collateral approach for enhanced flexibility
• Platform accommodates loans backed by BTC, ETH, SOL, and various stablecoins
• Financial institutions access capital while maintaining asset holdings
• Unified infrastructure eliminates disjointed crypto financing processes 

BitGo has unveiled a comprehensive financing solution that merges lending, borrowing, and collateral oversight within a single operational framework. This development responds to institutional requirements for streamlined digital asset liquidity solutions. The company’s goal is to eliminate fragmented processes through a centralized, secure platform.

Comprehensive Financing Solution Designed for Institutional Users

BitGo introduces an integrated solution merging lending operations, borrowing facilities, and collateral monitoring into a unified process. Participants can oversee their positions without transferring holdings between different platforms. This framework minimizes operational challenges while enhancing capital deployment efficiency.

The new system facilitates portfolio-level lending across diverse digital assets maintained in custody arrangements. Financial institutions gain credit access without segregating collateral for individual deals. This methodology reflects standard practices in institutional portfolio and liquidity management.

BitGo provides financing options for staked and locked holdings stored in isolated wallets. Participants preserve their staking operations while obtaining liquidity for market activities. The infrastructure delivers transparency and administrative oversight across all holdings.

Diverse Collateral Support Spanning BTC, ETH and SOL

BitGo accommodates collateralized loans utilizing prominent digital assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. The platform also incorporates stablecoins and additional qualified tokens within established risk frameworks. This diversity enhances financing options for institutional investment portfolios.

The infrastructure permits participants to post diversified collateral comprising multiple supported assets within a single account. Consequently, financial institutions can modify their market exposure while preserving credit facility access. BitGo organizes these financing arrangements under supervised custody protocols for risk mitigation.

BitGo incorporates lending functionalities within its unified platform for qualified holdings. Participants can allocate capital toward yield-producing opportunities while retaining liquidity options. This combined capability reinforces treasury operations and proactive capital deployment strategies.

Industry Landscape and Expansion of Digital Asset-Backed Financing

Digital asset-backed lending has experienced significant growth across trading venues, decentralized finance protocols, and institutional service providers throughout the previous year. Infrastructure development has gravitated toward custody-integrated frameworks that minimize counterparty risk. BitGo’s approach corresponds with this industry trajectory through its consolidated financing model.

Current market movements underscore increasing appetite for borrowing against cryptocurrency holdings without liquidating positions. Modern platforms now deliver yield opportunities, liquidity solutions, and collateralized financing through integrated architectures. BitGo establishes its service offering within this transforming financial ecosystem.

Financial institutions progressively require financing mechanisms aligned with conventional capital management principles. BitGo responds to this requirement by merging adaptable lending frameworks with custody-centered security protocols. This product introduction signifies broader transformations occurring within digital asset market infrastructure.

The post BitGo Introduces Unified Platform for Institutional Crypto Lending and Borrowing appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

• Tether has removed two senior precious metals traders hired from HSBC within months of their recruitment.
• Vincent Domien and Mathew O’Neill have left the company, according to a Bloomberg report.
• Tether has not publicly disclosed the reason for its departures.
• The exits come as Tether advances its first full financial audit with KPMG.
• Tether holds around 140 tons of physical gold valued at about $24 billion.

Tether has removed two senior gold traders hired from HSBC within months of their recruitment, according to Bloomberg. Vincent Domien and Mathew O’Neill have exited the company, although Tether has not disclosed reasons. Their departure comes as Tether moves forward with a full financial audit by KPMG and reassesses operations.

Tether Gold Desk Sees Leadership Exit

Bloomberg reported that Vincent Domien and Mathew O’Neill have left Tether this week. However, the company has not clarified the circumstances surrounding their departures. The Block contacted Tether for comment, yet it has not issued a public response.

Domien previously led global metals trading at HSBC and served on the London Bullion Market Association board. O’Neill managed precious metals origination across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at HSBC. Tether recruited both executives in late 2025 to expand its bullion operations and increase revenue streams.

Chief Executive Paolo Ardoino had stated that Tether planned to compete directly with major banks in gold trading. He told Bloomberg the company aimed to build “the best gold trading floor in the world.” However, the recent exits alter the leadership structure of that strategy.

Audit Process and Bullion Strategy Under Review

Tether holds about 140 tons of physical gold, which it stores in Switzerland. That reserve carries an estimated value of $24 billion based on current market prices. The company acquired more than 70 tons of gold last year to strengthen its balance sheet.

Tether issues Tether Gold (XAUT), which represents around 60% of the gold-backed stablecoin market. The company had explored lending its bullion to generate yield and diversify income beyond USDT. However, it has not confirmed whether it will continue that approach following the traders’ exits.

The leadership changes coincide with Tether’s decision to appoint KPMG for its first full audit. The audit follows the 2024 launch of USDT under the current corporate structure. Tether has also considered raising and tokenizing up to $20 billion in external funding, although it has paused those plans pending audit results.

Tether has not announced replacements for Domien or O’Neill at this time. Neither executive has issued a public statement regarding the departure. The company continues to maintain its gold reserves and operate Tether Gold in global markets.

The post Tether Cuts Former HSBC Metals Chiefs as Audit Proceeds appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

• Galaxy Digital has introduced Solana staking on its GalaxyOne retail platform.
• Users can earn up to 6.5% in variable annual rewards through the app.
• The company will waive staking commissions until the end of the year.
• Galaxy Digital operates institutional-grade Solana validators that support the staking service.
• Staking rewards depend on network conditions and validator performance.

Galaxy has launched Solana staking on its GalaxyOne retail app and set a target yield of up to 6.5%. The company said users can now stake SOL directly within the platform and earn variable annual rewards. The rollout strengthens Galaxy’s consumer crypto offering as competition intensifies among multi-service trading apps.

Galaxy Digital adds SOL staking to GalaxyOne platform

Galaxy Digital confirmed that GalaxyOne users can stake Solana tokens through the mobile application. The company stated that users may earn up to 6.5% in annual rewards, although returns remain variable. It explained that network conditions and validator performance determine the final yield, so payouts can change over time.

Galaxy Digital said it will waive staking commissions until year-end to attract early participation. The company indicated that this limited-time incentive supports user growth during the product launch phase. It also operates institutional-grade Solana validators, which process transactions and validate blocks across the network.

Through GalaxyOne, retail users can delegate their SOL tokens to Galaxy’s validators. In return, validators distribute a share of staking rewards to delegators. The company stated that this integration connects its infrastructure operations directly with retail services.

Solana staking activity holds despite price decline

Solana traded near $250 in September but later fell about 67% from that level. Despite the price drop, staking participation has remained steady across the network. Market data shows continued token delegation to validators even during broader crypto weakness.

Institutional interest in staking-based products has also rebounded in recent months. Solana-focused exchange-traded funds now provide exposure to price movements and onchain yield. Some of these ETFs incorporate liquid staking strategies to enhance flexibility for investors.

Bohdan Opryshko, co-founder and chief operating officer of Everstake, addressed this trend. He said, “Both retail and institutional participants are increasingly treating Solana as a yield-generating asset rather than a speculative trade.” His company operates validator infrastructure across several proof-of-stake networks.

Galaxy’s new staking feature places it in direct competition with Coinbase and Robinhood. Both platforms already offer bundled trading, custody, and staking services within their apps. As a result, staking has become a standard feature across major crypto platforms.

Galaxy Digital continues to expand GalaxyOne as part of its broader retail strategy. The company confirmed that SOL trades near $82.93 at the time of the announcement. It stated that staking rewards will fluctuate based on participation levels and validator output.

The post Galaxy Digital Launches SOL Staking on GalaxyOne App appeared first on Blockonomi.

The world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange added a fresh batch of trading pairs to one of its specialized sections, giving users more opportunities.

At the same time, it revealed that certain pairs will be removed from the platform.

The Latest Amendments

Binance listed APT/U, ENA/U, FET/U, NIGHT/U, TRUMP/U, WLD/U, and TRUMP/USD1 to ist Cross Margin program. The effort is once again centered on United Stables (U) – a stablecoin launched in late 2025 and pegged to the American dollar.

The company has been consistently expanding its backing for the asset, adding the trading pairs XRP/U, SUI/U, ASTER/U, and PAXG/U on Binance Spot in February. A month later, it opened trading for AVAX/U, LINK/U, LTC/U, PAXG/U, and ZEC/U.

Support from Binance may result in a substantial price swing for the involved cryptocurrencies; however, this usually occurs after initial listings, not from introducing additional pairs. In fact, most tokens featured in the latest effort are in the red today (March 31), coinciding with the crypto market’s overall unsatisfactory condition.

Besides adding trading pairs, Binance has a habit of scrapping those that no longer meet the necessary criteria. Based on its most recent review, it decided to remove ALT/BNB, ARB/TUSD, BNB/ARS, GALA/ETH, INJ/BNB, SOLV/FDUSD, and XRP/TUSD. They will become unavailable from April 2, with the company warning:

“Binance will terminate Spot Trading Bots services for the aforementioned spot trading pairs at 2026-04-02 03:00 (UTC) where applicable. Users are strongly advised to update and/or cancel their Spot Trading Bots prior to the cessation of Spot Trading Bots services to avoid any potential losses.”

The Updates That Triggered Major Volatility

As mentioned above, cryptocurrencies initially added to Binance tend to perform quite well in the hours after the disclosure. The pattern is largely driven by the sudden jump in liquidity, the broader market access, and the enhanced reputation that comes with being listed on one of the industry’s behemoths.

The latest example of that theory is Centrifuge (CFG), whose price exploded by 63% in mid-March after Binance introduced trading services with the coin.

The exact opposite thing typically occurs when the company terminates all operations with a certain token. Two weeks ago, it delisted the altcoins Arena-Z (A2Z), Ampleforth Governance Token (FORTH), Hooked Protocol (HOOK), Loopring (LRC), IDEX (IDEX), Neutron (NTRN), Solar (SXP), and Radiant Capital (RDNT). Some of those plummeted by double digits following the announcement.

The post 2 Important Binance Updates Affecting Numerous Altcoin Traders: Details Inside appeared first on CryptoPotato.

Bitcoin remains firmly in the middle of its almost two-month-long sideways channel following weekend declines, during which it dumped below $66,000 briefly.

“Momentum remains tentative, with lower highs still defining the short-term structure,” commented on-chain analytics provider Coinglass on Monday.

The analysts noted that the market appears to be transitioning from “active distribution towards a more neutral footing,” however, there is still “limited conviction” at current levels.

“While conditions remain fragile, easing sell-side pressure and stabilising flows suggest the groundwork for a potential recovery is forming, though stronger demand is still required to confirm a sustained shift.”

$BTC broke back below $70k before finding support near $65k, with a modest rebound back towards $67k into the weekend. Momentum remains tentative, with lower highs still defining the short-term structure.

Read more in this week’s Market Pulsehttps://t.co/2YkGjsdzkQ pic.twitter.com/7uLOYEYriD

— glassnode (@glassnode) March 30, 2026

Bitcoin Back in Accumulation Zone

CryptoQuant said on Monday that Bitcoin had dipped back into the accumulation zone.

“Whales are increasingly active on the Binance platform, depositing large Bitcoin batches that will potentially be sold,” noted analysts.

BTC has declined around 4% over the past week, dipping below $66,000 on Saturday and again on Monday. It had recovered marginally to reach $68,000 during early Asian trading on Tuesday morning but appears to have found resistance there.

“The market is slowly compressing around this $60K to $80K region,” observed analyst ‘Daan Crypto Trades’ on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, analyst ‘Sykodelic’ remained bullish as usual, stating that Bitcoin is currently trading in the “largest pocket of supply it has ever had,” over five years, just underneath the high-time-frame bullish structure.

Back in 2022, this was totally different, he said before adding:

“We have been seeing signs of large accumulation across the board, with a lot more strength. It’s going to be over much faster than most people are expecting.”

Elsewhere on Crypto Markets

Crypto markets have ticked up a little over the past few hours, but nothing substantial. According to the latest Wall Street Journal article, President Trump is willing to end the Iran War even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.

Ethereum prices made a minor move, up from around $2,000 to $2,080, before hitting resistance as the asset remains weak. Meanwhile, the altcoins remained mostly flat, with low volumes and further losses for XRP, Hyperliquid, and Canton.

The post Groundwork For Potential Bitcoin Recovery Is Forming, Say Analysts appeared first on CryptoPotato.

Financial markets faced more volatility in the past hour or so, including bitcoin, which just jumped to a five-day peak of $68,500 before it was stopped and driven south by a grand.

The most likely reason for these enhanced fluctuations was the emerging reports that Iran’s President Pezeshkian said his country is ready to end the war with the US if it receives certain guarantees.

However, the details about the nature of these guarantees are quite scarce, with analysts expecting more information in the following hours.

BREAKING: Iran’s President Pezeshkian says Iran is ready to end the war with the US but wants guarantees.

US stocks are surging on the news. pic.twitter.com/O1cePDFw6Q

— The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) March 31, 2026

Aside from BTC, which rose by a few grand before it was rejected, the S&P 500 went on a wild run, surging from 6,320 to 6,520 in minutes. In contrast, oil prices dumped by 5% in minutes.

USOIL dropped from $105 per barrel to under $100 before it recovered some ground to $102 as of now. These are multi-trillion-dollar moves in the matter of hours, which included another one from earlier today – a drop from $107 to $101 and a subsequent rebound to $105.

The post Bitcoin and S&P 500 Surged, Oil Plunged as Iran Says It’s Ready to End the War appeared first on CryptoPotato.

Cardano’s native cryptocurrency has plunged by 13% over the past month, coinciding with the bear market reigning across the entire crypto sector.

However, the recent whale behavior suggests that a rebound could be on the way.

Something We Don’t Know?

ADA currently trades at around $0.24 (per CoinGecko), while its market capitalization has fallen below $9 billion. Thus, the asset (once part of the elite top 10 club) is now the 15th-largest cryptocurrency.

Nonetheless, the large investors appear to view the price levels as a great buying opportunity. The popular analyst Ali Martinez revealed that they have accumulated 220 million tokens over the last week alone. This stash amounts to roughly $53 million (at current rates), while whales now hold almost 13.84 billion units, or 37% of the asset’s circulating supply.

The buying spree from these market participants may encourage smaller players to hop on the bandwagon and distribute fresh capital. After all, whales are known as experienced investors who may have inside information about upcoming news or developments that could impact the price of the cryptocurrency.

Earlier this month, Martinez touched upon ADA again, setting $0.245 as a “key support level.” Prior to that, the asset’s valuation hovered around $0.25, and the analyst reminded that on previous occasions this had led to explosions of 85% and 200%. X user ALTS GEMS Alets is also optimistic. They believe the bottom is in, envisioning a potential pump above $0.60 in the following months.

ADA’s Relative Strength Index (RSI) supports the bullish outlook. The ratio of the technical analysis tool has dropped below 30 on a weekly scale, suggesting the asset is oversold and ready for a possible revival. On the other hand, readings above 70 are considered bearish territory.

The list of factors hinting at a short-term price recovery also includes ADA’s recent exchange netflow. Over the past several days, outflows have exceeded inflows, signaling that investors have been abandoning centralized platforms and shifting toward self-custody. This, in turn, reduces the immediate selling pressure.

ADA Going to Zero?

Despite the aforementioned optimism among analysts and the bullish elements, some market observers remain skeptical and even hostile toward the cryptocurrency.

The X user with moniker gnarleyquinn, for instance, argued that Cardano’s chain is “going to zero” in the next few years, noting the evident decline in ADA’s dominance. Recall that the figure stood at around 4.5% in 2021, whereas currently it is a mere 0.3%.

The post 220,000,000 ADA in 1 Week: Do Cardano Whales Know Something We Don’t? appeared first on CryptoPotato.

[PRESS RELEASE – Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, March 31st, 2026]

Encrypt brings FHE to Solana to enable fast, fully confidential, and composable applications on Solana

Encrypt is coming to Solana with a clear vision: Encrypted Capital Markets.

Solana is the number one ecosystem for blockchain developers and the most used blockchain in the world. It is where the fastest teams ship, where breakout consumer products launch, and where Internet Capital Markets are being built in real time.

Encrypt introduces a new cryptographic capability to the Solana ecosystem: Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE). This enables developers and institutions to build applications that can perform computations directly on encrypted data. In practical terms, this allows data to remain private while application logic is executed onchain.

With Encrypt, developers and institutions are building high-performance financial applications on Solana, can add native cryptographic privacy to those applications natively. These may include use cases such as trading venues, lending markets, auctions, prediction markets, and other application categories that previously faced difficulties on public blockchains due to privacy limitations.

Encrypted Capital Markets

Blockchains are recognized for their composability, though they have historically faced limitations in supporting data privacy.

Most existing approaches to onchain privacy force tradeoffs. Some rely on trusted operators or specialized hardware, others can hide information for a single user, but do not allow applications shared by multiple users to be confidential, and some sacrifice composability between applications. Additionally, many privacy systems are simply too slow or too limited for real financial applications.

Encrypt changes that model by bringing FHE to Solana.

FHE is a breakthrough cryptographic primitive that allows computation to happen on encrypted data without decrypting it first. Instead of exposing balances, positions, orders, or application state to the public, developers can build programs where sensitive information remains encrypted throughout execution.

This opens the door to a new design space for Solana builders: financial applications that are fast, composable and confidential by default.

Confidential trading, hidden liquidity, private collateral, sealed-bid auctions, private prediction markets, encrypted strategy vaults, FHE-TLS application with confidential and verifiable read/write API calls, and other privacy-preserving applications can now be built in a way that feels native to Solana’s execution environment.

“Solana already has the performance, developer energy, and market structure to become the home of the next generation of onchain finance,” said Dolev Mutzari, Co-Founder of Encrypt. “Encrypt adds a missing primitive: the ability to build applications that keep sensitive data encrypted while still running on a public blockchain. That is what Encrypted Capital Markets means.”

A New Primitive for Solana Developers

At the core of Encrypt is a developer platform that allows teams to write encrypted Solana programs.

Instead of treating privacy as a bolt-on feature, Encrypt makes confidentiality part of the application itself. Developers and institutions can build programs that operate on encrypted inputs and encrypted state, while preserving the composability and programmability that make Solana powerful.

For users, that means public blockchains no longer need to mean fully public financial behavior.

For developers, it means entirely new product categories become practical on Solana: markets with hidden intent, lending systems with confidential positions, marketplaces with sealed bidding, and applications where privacy is part of the user experience rather than a compromise.

For institutions, it removes one of the biggest barriers to adoption, allowing the institution to enjoy the benefits of a public, permissionless and composable blockchain, without having to share or reveal sensitive data.

Just as importantly, Encrypt is designed for real applications, not just demos. Its architecture is built to make confidential execution practical for the kinds of high-throughput, low-latency composable environments that modern onchain markets require.

Why It Matters

Today, much of crypto finance still assumes that every action, position, and strategy must be visible by default.

That transparency has benefits, but it also creates clear limitations. Traders expose intent before execution. Liquidity providers reveal positions. Institutions face barriers to participating in public markets where every move is immediately visible. And many applications that require confidential shared state simply cannot exist in a fully transparent environment.

Encrypt gives Solana builders a way to overcome those limits without sacrificing the openness and composability of public blockchains.

That is the foundation for Encrypted Capital Markets: a world where sensitive financial logic can move onchain without forcing users, institutions, and applications to reveal everything in public.

“Solana has already proven that markets can move onchain,” said David Lachmish, Co-Founder of Encrypt. “The next frontier is cryptographic guarantees for private state on a public blockchain, and Encrypt brings FHE to Solana to make confidentiality a native building block for composable applications.”

With Encrypt, Solana can support a future where markets are still onchain, programmable, and globally accessible, but where confidentiality becomes part of the infrastructure. Encrypt will be live on Solana devnet in early Q2, and will launch on mainnet later this year.

About Encrypt

Encrypt is building the infrastructure for Encrypted Capital Markets on Solana. By bringing Fully Homomorphic Encryption to the Solana Virtual Machine, Encrypt enables developers to build applications that compute on encrypted data directly onchain, unlocking a new generation of confidential DeFi, markets, and financial applications.

Encrypt is built by the team behind Ika, and uses Ika as infrastructure on Solana as part of its broader vision for next-generation onchain financial systems. Users can learn more here.

The post Encrypt Is Coming to Solana to Power Encrypted Capital Markets appeared first on CryptoPotato.