Bitcoin and Ether surged as US liquidity measures and record spot ETF inflows offset investors’ recession fears and their concerns over the war in Iran.
Lending protocol Morpho launched Morpho Midnight on Base, introducing fixed-rate, fixed-term loans to its onchain credit network. This new offer-driven protocol allows lenders and borrowers to propose terms, aiming to attract institutions by providing predictable borrowing costs.
Bitcoin (BTC) surpassed $66,000, reaching a one-month high, fueled by trader enthusiasm and short liquidations. Analysts predict further gains towards $67,000-$70,000, while month-end derivatives positioning indicates a slow return of confidence in crypto risk, despite some concerns about real buying interest.
Arcus, a decentralized exchange backed by Robinhood Crypto, has launched tokenized stocks and perpetual futures on Robinhood Chain, offering over 95 stock tokens and derivatives. The platform uses a self-custodial model, but its stock tokens are unavailable in the US, Canada, and the UK due to ongoing regulatory questions.
Cryptocurrency exchange MEXC has launched staking support for Bittensor's TAO token, enabling its 40 million users to earn rewards by securing the decentralized AI network. This integration, announced by Bittensor validator Yuma, aims to expand access and participation in the Bittensor ecosystem, which coordinates AI model development through 128 subnets.
Coinbase's Base network, led by creator Jesse Pollak, is "imminently" launching 1:1-backed tokenized equities, inspired by Robinhood Chain's success in an EVM environment. This move accelerates Base's strategic pivot towards financial applications, shifting from its earlier focus on social products.
Vietnam introduces fines for retail crypto users on unlicensed platforms, while Japan reclassifies crypto as financial assets with new tax rules and penalties. South Korea updates national asset management to include crypto and addresses platform hacks, while Malaysia faces controversy over a school hosting Israeli citizens. Coinbase reportedly opens verification for China-based users, and Hong Kong approves a tokenized fund.
