Stripe has rolled out a new financial infrastructure product allowing global businesses to hold and transact in U.S. dollar stablecoins, the payments company’s latest expansion into blockchain-backed services. The feature is dubbed Stablecoin Financial Accounts and enables users in 101 countries to store balances in dollar-pegged tokens, receive payments in both cryptocurrencies and traditional currencies, and send stablecoins across borders. At launch, the platform supports Circle’s USDC and Bridge’s USDB, with plans to add more stablecoins over time. The announcement follows Stripe’s $1.1 billion acquisition of stablecoin platform Bridge in February. Stripe’s acquisition of Bridge, a Sequoia-backed company that focuses on moving money using stablecoins, remains the largest crypto-related merger to date. Bridge provides APIs that allow businesses to accept and move stablecoin payments globally with reduced complexity. The company says the new product will help entrepreneurs in countries with unstable currencies protect their purchasing power and tap into global markets more easily. Industry observers believe the product could unlock a substantial revenue stream for Stripe through earnings on reserves held in assets like U.S. Treasurys. “Many of the world’s largest companies are turning to Stripe to help assemble their stablecoin strategies,” the company said in a statement. The stablecoin feature arrives alongside another major release, an artificial intelligence-based foundation model for payment processing. Stripe says the model was trained on tens of billions of transactions to identify patterns in payment behavior that can help detect fraud and improve transaction approval rates. According to Stripe, the system captures hundreds of subtle markers during a payment, providing broader insight than what traditional rule-based systems typically catch. It is reportedly the first such model built specifically for payments infrastructure. Stripe co-founder and CEO Patrick Collison described the convergence of stablecoins and AI as “gale-force tailwinds” pushing the global economy into a new phase. “There are not one, but two, gale-force tailwinds, well off the Beaufort scale, dramatically reshaping the economic landscape around us: AI and stablecoins,” he said in the announcement. Stripe initially became a leader in the crypto space when it introduced Bitcoin payment support in 2014. However, it discontinued the feature in 2018, citing declining demand, long transaction times, higher fees, and price volatility. The company reintroduced crypto payments last week, supporting USDC stablecoin transactions on Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon networks.

Alphabet (GOOGL) stock experienced a sharp sell-off yesterday, opening the session near $163.70 before plunging to an intraday low of around $148. Despite a modest late-session recovery, the stock ended the day down more than 7%—the steepest decline among all S&P 500 constituents (US SPX 500 mini on FXOpen). What Triggered the Sell-Off? The decline came in the wake of comments from Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Internet Software and Services. Cue highlighted: → A decrease in search traffic on Safari; → Apple’s plans to enhance Safari’s search capabilities using artificial intelligence. These remarks fueled concerns over Google’s dominance in online search and its core advertising business. Analysts have also pointed to increasing competition from AI-driven platforms like OpenAI, Grok, and Perplexity, raising further questions about Google’s long-term market position. Technical Outlook for Alphabet (GOOGL) In our analysis, we noted a descending price channel and stressed the psychological importance of the $150 support level, which has been pivotal in 2024. Since then, bullish momentum had lifted the price above the red descending channel, suggesting the emergence of a potential ascending channel (shown in blue on the chart). However, the latest developments have shifted sentiment. GOOGL shares are now hovering near the lower boundary of this blue channel—an area that coincides with the key $150 psychological support. However, a decisive break below this level could reignite the broader downtrend that began in February and open the door for a retest of this year’s lows.  FXOpen offers spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $1.50 per lot. Enjoy trading on MT4, MT5, TickTrader or TradingView trading platforms! The FXOpen App is a dedicated mobile application designed to give traders full control of their accounts anytime, anywhere. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice. Disclaimer: This content is provided by a sponsor. FinanceFeeds does not independently verify the legitimacy, credibility, claims, or financial viability of the information or description of services mentioned. As such, we bear no responsibility for any potential risks, inaccuracies, or misleading representations related to the content. This post does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation and should not be treated as such. We strongly advise seeking independent financial guidance from a qualified and regulated professional before engaging in any investment or financial activities. Please review our full disclaimer for more details.

Robinhood is reportedly developing a blockchain-based platform designed to enable European investors to trade tokenized U.S. securities, according to sources familiar with the matter. The initiative marks a significant shift in the company’s global strategy and a push to harness blockchain technology to streamline cross-border investing. As part of its European expansion, Robinhood recently acquired a brokerage license in Lithuania, allowing it to operate throughout the European Union. This regulatory approval is expected to be foundational for the upcoming platform, which would allow users across the region to gain exposure to U.S. equities in a fully digital and potentially more efficient format. The move is seen as an attempt to leverage new technologies to democratize financial access across borders. By using blockchain networks, Robinhood could significantly reduce friction in cross-border trading and attract a new wave of retail investors from markets traditionally underserved by U.S.-based financial products. Tokenization and Blockchain Integration in Focus The platform will reportedly explore deploying on established blockchain networks such as Arbitrum, Ethereum, or Solana—choices known for their scalability, low transaction fees, and robust developer ecosystems. These networks would provide the infrastructure for the tokenization of U.S. stocks, whereby shares are represented as digital tokens that can be traded in a decentralized environment. Tokenized assets promise several advantages over traditional financial instruments, including near-instant settlement, 24/7 market access, and improved transparency. For European investors, this could mean faster and more cost-effective access to high-demand U.S. equities such as those listed on the NASDAQ and NYSE. Industry analysts say that Robinhood’s move comes amid a broader push by fintech companies to integrate blockchain technology into traditional finance. The convergence of these two worlds—often referred to as “TradFi” and “DeFi”—is seen as a potential catalyst for innovation in capital markets. While Robinhood has not formally announced the blockchain platform, reports suggest that the project is already in early development stages. Details regarding a potential launch date, token standards, and whether fractionalized shares will be supported remain unclear. Still, the strategic timing of this initiative reflects growing momentum in the tokenization space. Several major financial institutions, including BlackRock and JPMorgan, have recently launched or explored tokenized asset offerings, signaling increased institutional interest in blockchain infrastructure. If successful, Robinhood’s platform could set a precedent for how retail brokerage firms approach global expansion and technological adoption. It may also pave the way for a broader transformation of how securities are issued, traded, and settled across jurisdictions.

David Bailey, the CEO of Bitcoin Magazine and a noted cryptocurrency advisor to former U.S. President Donald Trump, has raised $300 million for a new venture aimed at advancing Bitcoin adoption through global corporate acquisitions. The initiative, named Nakamoto, reflects Bailey’s broader ambition to reshape corporate capital structures around Bitcoin and take the firm public via a merger with an already-listed Nasdaq company. The funding round is comprised of $200 million in equity and $100 million in convertible debt, positioning Nakamoto as one of the most well-capitalized Bitcoin investment firms to date. Bailey confirmed that the firm will follow a treasury-focused strategy similar to that of MicroStrategy, by acquiring and holding Bitcoin as a core balance sheet asset. “Bitcoin has reached an inflection point where it should no longer be treated as a speculative asset, but as a foundational reserve asset for forward-looking companies,” Bailey said in a statement. Global Ambitions and a Bitcoin-Centric Corporate Strategy Beyond asset accumulation, Nakamoto aims to acquire and invest in businesses across emerging and developed markets, with initial focus on Brazil, Thailand, and South Africa. These regional plays are part of a broader strategy to integrate Bitcoin into the operational and financial DNA of firms operating in diverse economies. According to Bailey, the firm intends to develop what he calls “MicroStrategy equivalents” around the globe—entities that not only hold Bitcoin on their balance sheets but also adopt the cryptocurrency as a central pillar of their corporate strategy. This model is designed to bring Bitcoin adoption to a wider swath of the global economy, particularly in regions where traditional banking systems may be less efficient or inflation more severe. Bailey emphasized that such integration could protect companies against currency devaluation and promote financial sovereignty. Institutional Momentum in Bitcoin Investment Nakamoto enters the market at a time when institutional interest in Bitcoin is gaining rapid traction. Other firms such as Twenty One Capital and Strive Asset Management have also begun to pursue aggressive Bitcoin investment strategies. However, Bailey’s approach distinguishes itself by merging capital deployment with an ideological mission to promote Bitcoin as a superior form of money. Industry analysts note that the firm’s planned public listing and international investment scope could set a new precedent for how Bitcoin is incorporated into corporate and financial ecosystems. With $300 million secured and a vision grounded in both financial innovation and ideological conviction, Nakamoto may become a bellwether for the next chapter of Bitcoin’s institutional adoption.

Panama City, Panama, May 8th, 2025, Chainwire Flipster, one of the world’s fastest-growing cryptocurrency derivatives trading platforms, today announced an exclusive partnership with TALON, one of Asia’s premier competitive gaming organizations, competing in 10 major titles — including Dota 2, League of Legends, and Valorant — across seven countries. As part of the collaboration, TALON’s Dota 2 team will officially compete under the name Flipster Talon, with Flipster securing naming rights for the team for the next year. This milestone also establishes Flipster as the Official Crypto Exchange Partner of TALON, marking the platform’s debut in the rapidly expanding global esports space. These initiatives aim to bridge the energy of esports with the empowerment of digital assets, fostering education, interactivity, and inclusive participation across both worlds. “Esports is one of the most exciting frontiers for Web3 culture to thrive,” said Youngsun Shin, Head of Product and Partnerships at Flipster. “Through Flipster Talon, we’re championing a new kind of connection with a digital-native generation that values openness, creativity, and inclusion — the same values that underpin crypto.” Beginning with TALON’s Dota 2 roster, Flipster and TALON will roll out a series of co-created content, campaign drops, and digital fan activations aimed at deepening fan engagement and making crypto more approachable. “Flipster’s partnership with TALON is grounded in a shared commitment to access and inclusion,” Youngsun added. “By focusing on free-to-play titles and a player-first approach, Flipster supports the gaming community across the spectrum — from casual fans to pro athletes — much like it empowers both beginner and experienced traders through its platform.” “We’re thrilled to welcome Flipster to the TALON family,” said Sean Zhang, CEO of TALON. “As innovators in their field, Flipster shares our drive to push boundaries and create richer fan experiences. Together, we’re exploring exciting new ways to bring gaming and crypto culture together.” Since its founding in 2021, Flipster has grown rapidly, now serving over one million users across nearly 200 countries. With institutional-grade infrastructure and a community-first mindset, Flipster is on a mission to make crypto trading more accessible, rewarding, and fun. The full Flipster Talon rollout is set for June, including player signings, co-branded content, and a launch video to mark the partnership’s debut. About Flipster Flipster is a global cryptocurrency trading platform that delivers fast, secure, and intuitive access to digital assets. Offering over 350 trading pairs across spot and futures markets—with up to 100x leverage and zero trading fees—Flipster equips traders with the tools to execute strategies efficiently. Beyond trading, Flipster provides users with access to capital-efficient opportunities, including earning programs, and token airdrops. Built on a foundation of security, transparency, and user-first innovation, Flipster aims to offer a seamless trading experience for users engaging with digital assets in dynamic market conditions. Over the past year, Flipster has experienced rapid growth, with trading volume surging by 856% and total user assets on the platform increasing by more than 6,000%, solidifying its position as a leading derivatives exchange. To learn more, users can visit flipster.io or follow X. About TALON TALON is a leading esports and entertainment organization headquartered in Hong Kong, with competitive teams and operations across Asia. TALON is known for its dominance in titles such as League of Legends, Dota 2, Arena of Valor, and more, as well as its growing content platform and lifestyle-driven brand collaborations. Contact Flipster pr@flipster.io Disclaimer: This content is a press release from a wire service. This press release is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

Braden John Karony, former chief executive of crypto firm SafeMoon, has publicly declared his innocence as his criminal trial got underway this week in the Eastern District of New York. In a post on X, Karony said he “did not commit fraud,” pushing back against media reports covering the first day of court proceedings. Karony, along with SafeMoon founder Kyle Nagy and ex-chief technology officer Thomas Smith, faces charges of securities fraud conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy, and money laundering conspiracy. The charges stem from allegations that the trio misappropriated millions of dollars’ worth of the project’s native SFM token. Court documents allege the defendants marketed SafeMoon as a secure, decentralized investment while secretly draining funds for personal use, including luxury cars and real estate. Nagy, who reportedly fled to Russia after charges were filed in late 2023, was referenced in court filings by Karony as bearing responsibility for some of the misconduct. On the first day of trial, prosecutors brought forward a SafeMoon investor and Thomas Smith, who is cooperating with the government, as witnesses. Karony, who pleaded not guilty and has been out on a $3 million bond since February 2024, made his public comments outside court channels—a move legal experts say could carry risks. Many defendants in high-profile crypto cases remained silent during proceedings, often under legal counsel’s guidance to avoid public statements being used against them. The trial is scheduled to continue through May 26 and has so far attracted less public attention than recent crypto scandals, such as the prosecution of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried and the sentencing of Binance’s Changpeng Zhao. The SafeMoon case was filed in November 2023, shortly before Joseph Nocella, a former Trump appointee, was named interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. While the EDNY has overseen several notable crypto prosecutions, it remains unclear whether political affiliations will influence the case. Meanwhile, former Celsius CEO Alex Mashinsky is set to be sentenced on May 8 in the Southern District of New York after pleading guilty to two felony charges in December. Federal prosecutors have requested a 20-year prison term.

Popular trading app Robinhood is building a blockchain-based network that would allow retail investors in Europe to trade tokenized versions of U.S. stocks, according to a Bloomberg report citing people familiar with the matter. The initiative is still in its early stages and comes as part of Robinhood’s broader push to expand its footprint in European markets. The company is reportedly in discussions with crypto firms Arbitrum and the Solana Foundation, both of which are vying to support the project. No agreements have been finalized, and all parties declined to comment. Tokenization refers to the process of converting real-world assets such as equities, real estate, or commodities into digital tokens that can be traded on blockchain platforms. By moving stocks onto a decentralized ledger, brokers can sidestep traditional market infrastructure, cutting costs, speeding up transactions, and opening access to a wider range of users. The project comes as Robinhood deepens its involvement in the crypto space. In April, the company secured a brokerage license in Lithuania, granting it regulatory access to the entire European Union. That followed its 2024 agreement to acquire cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp, a move seen as laying the groundwork for a hybrid trading ecosystem. “You can sit down in front of some software, create a coin and have it be trading in five minutes,” said CEO Vlad Tenev in a recent interview. “That’s a scary thing. It’s also an incredibly powerful thing if you compare it to how slow and expensive the IPO process is.” Robinhood isn’t alone in exploring blockchain-backed finance. Wall Street firms including JPMorgan have been testing similar technology for years. JPMorgan’s Onyx platform supports tokenized dollar transfers, and Spanish bank Santander used blockchain for investor voting as early as 2018. The brokerage recorded $46 billion in crypto trading volume for Q1, down from $70 billion in Q4 2024, but still up 28% year-over-year. Despite the pullback, Robinhood ended 2024 with $141 billion in total crypto trading volume, reflecting strong fourth-quarter activity. In contrast, equity trading volume soared to $413 billion in Q1, an 84% increase from the same period last year. Crypto-related revenue rose 100% year-over-year to $252 million, but fell from $358 million in the previous quarter. While early April saw a rebound in retail interest after new U.S. tariff announcements, margin and derivatives activity remains soft across platforms.

Though the mining industry changes in April 2025, Chinese automobile transaction service platform Cango Inc. is doubling down on its strategic Bitcoin investment. Turning its focus to digital asset mining to diversify its revenue sources, the company has shown rising Bitcoin holdings and ongoing high mining efficiency throughout its operations. Handling Pressures After Halving The most recent halving event of Bitcoin in April 2025 was a major event in the crypto space that cut mining payouts by half. Usually, such a change strains miners with lower margins and more expenses. Cango has, however, effectively negotiated the difficulty by reducing its operations, modernizing to more efficient mining platforms, and maximizing energy utilization. While many mid-tier miners scaled back or left the market completely, Cango’s durability is evidence of its deliberate focus on blockchain and digital assets. The company’s capacity to react fast to post-halving dynamics offered it a competitive edge during a turbulent month of mining profitability. A Calculated Rise in Bitcoin Holdings Consistent with a rising trend among tech-oriented companies that view Bitcoin as a long-term asset rather than a trading tool, Cango disclosed an intentional increase in its Bitcoin holdings. Through increasing its Bitcoin holdings in April, the business strengthened investor trust and offered a positive future signal for cryptocurrencies. This accumulation approach coincides with a period of institutional interest in Bitcoin once more rising, thanks to macroeconomic uncertainties and ETF approvals in many markets. Cango seems to be positioned not only as a miner but also as a long-term participant in the larger crypto economy. Mining is Still Above the Industry Average Cango’s mining performance stayed robust even with lowered block rewards and network difficulty changes. Internal benchmarks show that the company’s hash rate efficiency exceeded industry averages, partly due to earlier in the year strategic infrastructure improvements undertaken. Maintaining operational expenses has also been aided by Cango’s ongoing cooperation with energy suppliers. The company guaranteed a smaller energy footprint by signing low-cost, renewable energy contracts, therefore preserving profitability even when the energy footprint was reduced. The Core Diversification Strategy: Crypto Cango’s push into Bitcoin mining and asset accumulation emphasizes its more general departure from its original automotive-oriented business plan. Cango is entering less crowded, high-growth industries like blockchain, utilizing its capital and technological skills as automobile transactions in China confront regulatory and market challenges. This development emphasizes a rising trend among mid-sized public companies: diversification via digital assets. Cango’s crypto approach is based on long-term value development, technical infrastructure, and capital preservation instead of speculative performance. Outlook for the Rest of 2025 Cango seems not to slow down going forward. The firm has made hints about more development into distributed finance (DeFi) connections and artificial intelligence-powered mining management. These developments could help it to lower volatility related to the price swings of Bitcoin and thereby boost its profits. Cango Inc. is demonstrating in a world where many mining companies fight to survive that infrastructure investment, timing, and strategy are fundamental for success in the digital asset economy.

Against gloomy predictions following the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) delay in authorising spot Bitcoin and crypto ETFS, Litecoin (LTC) surprisingly jumped by 10% over the weekend. LTC broke the trend as most altcoins stayed level or dropped slightly, casting doubt on what drove the unexpected surge and what it portends for the larger crypto market. SEC Delay Fails to Challenge Litecoin Bulls Early in the week, the SEC’s decision to delay approving numerous spot ETFs, including ones linked to Bitcoin and Ethereum, created a pall over the cryptocurrency market. Past times have seen such delays cause brief declines in prices and investor confidence.  Analysts think this is partially related to Litecoin, sometimes described as the “silver to Bitcoin’s gold,” not immediately impacted by the SEC’s postponement since it is not now in queue for a spot ETF. This lets the asset ride a separate wave, mostly influenced by long-term holders’ positive attitude and basic principles. Whale Behaviour and Technical Indicators Show Weakness On-chain data shows whale activity rising amid the price jump. Big-money investors’ faith was restored when large wallet addresses of collected LTC were quickly marked. Technical charts also indicated positive signals. Recently, after crossing its 50-day moving average, Litecoin sent buy signals to several algorithmic traders, indicating a possible short-term upside. Suggesting there is still opportunity for upward momentum before a correction becomes inevitable, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) likewise held just below the overbought area. Halving is Still in Play For After Effects In August 2023, Litecoin saw its third halving, lowering block rewards from 12.5 LTC to 6.25 LTC. Although the early price movement following halving was subdued, many observers now contend that LTC’s price performance is beginning to show the supply constraint. Litecoin’s pricing dynamics are gradually tightening with fewer coins in circulation and a rather steady demand base; this means that any increase in demand could cause significant price swings, as shown this week. Rotation in Markets and the ‘Safe Haven’ Effect Still another explanation for LTC’s surge is market rotation. Some investors are storing money in “safer,” more established coins as they get cautious about highly touted tokens and ETF-sensitive assets. With its decade-long background, minimal fees, and robust network uptime, Litecoin matches conservative crypto investors seeking short-term prospects amid uncertainties. Moreover, since Bitcoin is macro-level unpredictable, some traders see Litecoin as a hedge, offering comparable transactional value without the ETF noise. What’s Ahead? Analysts warn that even with the positive momentum, the crypto market is still erratic and Litecoin has a past of brief bubbles followed by severe declines. Important resistance values between $100 and $105 will be under constant observation in the next days. Still, this movement has spurred fresh interest in a coin sometimes disregarded in the crypto story. Should sentiment remain and outside macro factors not significantly change, Litecoin may be preparing for a higher Q2 than first projected.

Binance Smart Chain (BSC) might undergo a significant makeover. Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has raised the concept of cutting BSC gas costs by an amazing 90%. Made on X (formerly Twitter), the recommendation has rocked the Binance community and spurred both appreciation and worry. The Plan: A Bold Step to Inspire BSC Activity Once More CZ’s idea is to make the Binance Smart Chain much more affordable so as to revive it. Though a 90% drop might bring BSC gas fees down to fractions of a penny per transaction, they are currently rather inexpensive compared to Ethereum. CZ’s post made hints about the likelihood that, depending on community comments, this change might be adopted at the protocol level. Advocates of this approach think it will increase user acceptance, draw more developers, and help BSC regain some of its competitive edge lost as alternative effective Layer-1 and Layer-2 solutions like Solana, Base, and Arbitrum have proliferated. Community Split: Possibility against Sustainability The Binance community’s response has been uneven. Particularly among cost-conscious consumers in developing nations, many users embraced the concept as it would enable BSC to reclaim market dominance in DeFi, NFTs, and gaming apps. Others, however, expressed questions on security, validator incentives, and network sustainability. Reduced gas prices could entail lower income for validators and possible network integrity problems should incentives not be changed. Furthermore, several developers were questioned whether the present usage and congestion levels justified such a significant charge reduction. While a cheaper price structure would inspire more transactions, on-chain analysts noted that unless carefully balanced with appropriate protections, it could also lead to spam or abuse. Historical Context: BSC’s Path and Ahead Starting in 2020, Binance Smart Chain became a hotspot for DeFi and retail consumers priced out of Ethereum rapidly, thanks to its low costs and fast transactions. Ethereum was quickly acquired. However, regular hacks, centralizing issues, and an overabundance of low-quality projects degraded BSC’s reputation. BSC has lost its early momentum with Ethereum’s scalability enhancements and the emergence of younger chains like Aptos and Sui. CZ’s suggestion seems to be a calculated attempt to revitalize the network and set it apart once more from the cost standpoint. What Comes Next? Community Government Will Choose CZ has made it abundantly evident that without general community approval, this Plan will not proceed. Governance talks, validator comments, and perhaps a BSC Improvement Proposal (BEP) to officially document any changes would come next. Right now, the argument is still ongoing. Whether the 90% fee drop comes to pass or not, the discussion reveals more fundamental issues regarding BSC’s future orientation and the part it intends to play in a growingly competitive Layer-1 scene.

FD Technologies, one of Northern Ireland’s most prominent tech firms, is at the center of a potential £542 million acquisition by U.S. private equity firm TA Associates. The Boston-based investor proposed an offer of £24.50 per share for all 22.1 million outstanding shares. In a statement to the market, FD’s board said it is “minded to recommend” the proposal, with a formal offer deadline set for June 4. News of the bid sent FD’s London-listed stock soaring by over 20% on Wednesday, pushing its share price to £23.50 and valuing the firm at just under £520 million. Founded in 1996 as First Derivatives, FD Technologies rose to become one of Northern Ireland’s most successful tech stories, at one point employing around 3,000 people globally. However, following the death of founder Brian Conlon in 2019, the company underwent major structural changes. In March 2024, FD Technologies announced a three-way business division and soon after sold its consulting arm, First Derivative, to U.S. software firm EPAM Systems for £230 million. That deal saw around 1,800 employees exit the company in December 2024. In the aftermath, FD launched a £120 million share buyback program, purchasing 4.5 million shares for nearly £90 million. Today, FD Technologies primarily focuses on its KX software, a real-time analytics platform used in finance, manufacturing, and telecoms. The company’s pivot coincided with growing pressure from activist investor Irenic Capital Management, which gradually increased its stake to over 29% by early 2025. Under UK takeover rules, any move past 30% could trigger a mandatory full bid for the company. Irenic, which was founded in 2021 by Adam Katz and Andy Dodge, is known for its assertive involvement in board-level changes and restructurings, including its role in pressuring The Restaurant Group to divest its pub operations. The Conlon family retains a 10% stake in FD Technologies, down from 23.4% at the time of Brian Conlon’s passing. TA Associates now has until June 4 to formalize its offer. If accepted, the deal would likely result in a further transformation of FD Technologies’ ownership and operations. The company currently employs around 1,200 people across Newry, Belfast, and Dublin.

Both bitcoin and conventional equity markets are displaying clear activity as fresh US-China trade negotiations get closer. Investors are walking carefully since they are not sure how possible diplomatic results could affect asset performance over the near future. An Alert and Speculative Climate Geopolitical events typically affect global markets, and trade ties between the US and China still have a great impact. Both governments have made cautious but hopeful remarks ahead of the following round of negotiations, therefore indicating a readiness to reach common ground. Mixed signals in the equities market result from this uncertain environment. Reflecting market uncertainty, big US indices including the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average have changed in recent sessions. Past collapses in negotiations have some traders cautious even while others are hopeful about a possible fix. Crypto Notes: Increased Interest and Variability Fascinatingly, in the trade conflict, the market for cryptocurrencies has become rather busy. Both Bitcoin and Ethereum have seen rising trade activity and meager price increases. Many observers believe some investors see cryptocurrencies as a counterpoint against conventional financial uncertainties. Historically, crypto has responded to world unrest, especially in relation to fiat-based issues. Digital assets are once more attracting interest from risk-tolerant investors as central banks deliver conflicting messages on interest rates and inflation still lurks in both the US and China. Organizational Actions and Capital Flow Increasing involvement of institutional entities adds another layer to the dynamics of the present market. Closely observing trade events, hedge funds and investment banks are reallocating some of their holdings to more liquid or non-correlated assets, including stablecoins and short-term treasuries. Visible in the equity markets is capital rotation. While cyclical stocks linked to manufacturing and exports are underperforming directly to anxiety over possible tariffs or penalties, defensive sectors like utilities and consumer basics are becoming popular. Long-Term Effects Still Not Clearly Known Although the negotiation method almost guarantees short-term instability, the long-term consequences will depend on the result. A good negotiation can help to stem the move towards alternative assets like cryptocurrencies and stabilize equity markets. Conversely, a collapse in diplomacy could hasten the general diversification of capital into distributed finance, goods, or emerging markets. The main lesson is that institutional and individual investors both live in a condition of “watch and wait.” Now, more than just a speculative asset, crypto’s behavior during times of geopolitical conflict will continue to provide insights into its developing function within the global financial system. Markets Continue To Evolve Markets are based on certainty; for the present, there is not much of that as the US and China get ready to start high-stakes trade talks. One thing is evident: whether you are observing the Nasdaq or Bitcoin, global investors are ready for all outcomes, and the changing momentum in both cryptocurrencies and stocks reflects this expectation.

Growing player in distributed money, World Liberty Financial (WLF) has formally started community voting for the eagerly awaited USD1 airdrop. Especially as it releases more user-centric products, the airdrop seeks to honour devoted consumers and encourage more general involvement in the WLF ecosystem. The voting procedure enables the community to choose which wallets ought to receive USD 1 stablecoins. WLF is underlining its dedication to decentralisation and openness by including governance with incentive distribution. Those eligible to vote are WLF governance token holders until May 15, 2025. According to the WLF team, the airdrop is meant not simply as a bonus but also as a calculated move to boost liquidity and generate interest in its more general financial infrastructure. Presenting USD1: A Stablecoin With Actual Worth Designed 1:1 to the US dollar, USD1 is the recently introduced stablecoin available within the WLF network. Its flawless interaction with World Liberty’s financial instruments distinguishes it and makes it a fundamental asset in its forthcoming yield-generating capabilities. The WLF team claims USD1 was created to be a low-volatility asset and a yield-generating instrument, perfect for consumers looking for consistent returns free from high-risk systems. Its issuing and reserve information will be made publicly verifiable, therefore adding an element of trust sometimes lacking in less well-known stablecoins. New Stable Yield Mechanism for Extended Sustainability Along with the vote launch, World Liberty Financial presented a new stable yield mechanism (SYM) that offers consumers steady returns on their assets, free from the instability of conventional yield farming. The SYM pools stablecoin deposits like USD1 and USDC, then distributes yield produced by low-risk, real-world asset strategies, including short-term Treasury-backed products and controlled DeFi lending platforms. This method guarantees consistent returns free from Ponzi-style reward loops or unsustainable token emissions. WLF will release quarterly reports outlining how yield is created and how risks are controlled to help build user confidence even more. By June 2025, the mechanism should be operational. Increasing User Confidence Utilizing Openness and Control This twin release of the stable yield mechanism and airdrop vote marks WLF’s deliberate turn towards long-term user retention and protocol sustainability. WLF is stressing openness, community governance, and consistent value creation instead of short-term hype cycles. The WLF crew stated on their official blog: “We want to create tools that survive bear markets and thrive in bull markets.” Our approach of demonstrating that we are creating something that will last is allowing the community authority over airdrops and yield strategy. WLF Continues To Soar World Liberty Financial bills itself as more than simply another DeFi initiative. The platform is moving towards distributed, sustainable finance with a transparent voting system, a safe and usable stablecoin, and a well-considered yield mechanism. Projects like WLF that give user trust and long-term utility priority could be the ones that endure as the DeFi market develops.

The XAU/USD chart reveals a surge in market volatility, with the Average True Range reaching its highest level in weeks. This uptick is driven by the global market instability — now including a worsening conflict between India and Pakistan — which continue to fuel trading activity. Technical Outlook: Gold Under Pressure Amid Uncertainty A shift in sentiment was observed on 23rd April, following a peak in gold prices around $3,500. Current price action shows bearish pressure above $3,400, which earlier triggered a reversal at peak B. The peak B falls short of the high at point A. This pattern points to the formation of a descending channel, suggesting sellers are trying to contain the price within this range. However, bulls recently pushed the price above the $3,333 level (marked by a blue arrow), potentially forming a bullish “cup and handle” pattern. If this plays out, the May rally could see an attempt to break above peak B. Volatility is expected to remain elevated, particularly with the US Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision scheduled for 21:00 GMT+3 today, followed by Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s press conference at 21:30. FXOpen offers spreads from 0.0 pips and commissions from $1.50 per lot. Enjoy trading on MT4, MT5, TickTrader or TradingView trading platforms! The FXOpen App is a dedicated mobile application designed to give traders full control of their accounts anytime, anywhere. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.  

Dubai, UAE, May 7th, 2025, Chainwire In the aftermath of the largest hack in crypto history, Bybit has emerged as a case study in market resilience, transparency, and user trust. A new independent report by Kaiko, a leading provider of institutional-grade crypto market data, reveals that Bybit’s liquidity rebounded to pre-incident levels within just 30 days—a feat unmatched by industry peers following similar crises. On February 21, 2025, Bybit was the target of a coordinated cyberattack resulting in $1.5 billion in unauthorized withdrawals. While the incident sent shockwaves through the global crypto ecosystem, Bybit’s swift response and robust infrastructure ensured trading remained uninterrupted. In the weeks that followed, the platform’s liquidity, trading depth, and user confidence bounced back with remarkable speed. A 30-Day Turnaround Led by Market Structure Innovation According to Kaiko’s analysis, Bybit’s Bitcoin liquidity—measured by the 1% market depth—reached an average of $13 million per day by the end of Q1 2025, matching pre-hack levels. Liquidity recovered across all order book tiers, from 0.1% to 8% of the mid-price, underscoring deep institutional participation. A key contributor to this recovery was the timely launch of Retail Price Improvement (RPI) orders on February 20, just one day before the attack. These orders, exclusive to manual traders on Bybit’s interface and inaccessible via API, are placed by institutional market makers to enhance pricing conditions for retail participants. In the volatile days post-incident, RPI orders helped stabilize trading, tighten spreads, and protect manual users from predatory algorithmic behavior. Altcoin Market Strength and Narrowing Spreads Liquidity recovery wasn’t limited to Bitcoin. Over 80% of pre-hack market depth for the top 30 altcoins by market cap was restored by March. Spreads across major tokens—including high-volatility assets like DOGE and XRP—tightened significantly, indicating improved execution costs and renewed market maker confidence. Bid-ask spread volatility, a key indicator of market stress, also declined throughout March, signaling improved order book stability and increased participation from liquidity providers. Volumes Recover Faster Than in Previous Crises While broader market sentiment remained cautious amid macroeconomic uncertainty, Bybit’s trading volumes rebounded faster than after comparable shocks such as the 2016 Bitfinex hack or the 2023 Binance.US SEC case. Kaiko’s data shows that hourly trading volume on Bybit briefly spiked to $1.2 billion immediately following the incident. Although volumes dipped in line with weekend trends, they have since normalized and begun climbing steadily—highlighting strong user retention and a growing sense of trust in Bybit’s market resilience. Transparency as a Differentiator One of the standout takeaways from the Kaiko report is Bybit’s transparency throughout the recovery process. While other platforms in similar situations have suffered prolonged liquidity deterioration, Bybit’s open communication and proactive market structure improvements helped it regain trust and stabilize conditions faster than the industry norm. As the crypto market matures, exchanges are increasingly measured not only by performance during booms, but by how they respond to adversity. Bybit’s rapid liquidity rebound and commitment to user-centric innovation set a new benchmark for operational resilience in the industry. #Bybit / #TheCryptoArk About Bybit Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open, and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com. For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | YouTube Contact Head of PR Tony Au Bybit media@bybit.com Disclaimer: This content is a press release from a wire service. This press release is provided for informational purposes only. We have not independently verified its content and do not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

The cryptocurrency exchange Bybit showed remarkable resistance by attaining market recovery during the weeks following its massive security breach costing $1.5 billion. New data from the institutional digital asset provider Kaiko shows Bybit recovered its pre-hack funding liquidity within thirty days which surpasses historical digital asset industry recovery periods. The cyberattack triggered on February 21, 2025 allowed hackers to withdraw $1.5 billion. Trading operations at Bybit persisted uninterrupted despite the record-breaking breach which left their infrastructure unscathed. An independent analysis verified Bybit’s recovery steps after the hack which emphasized strategic innovation and transparent communication. The 30-Day market structure transformation led to Bybit’s triumphant return The data from Kaiko demonstrates Bybit’s Bitcoin liquidity reached $13 million each day following the attack through 1% market depth metrics during Q1 2025 at the same levels as prior to the breach. Institutional market participants demonstrated broad involvement during recovery phases reaching from 0.1% to 8% order book depth. The launch of Retail Price Improvement (RPI) orders on February 20 proved decisive for recovery because it happened precisely one day before the hack. Manual traders use these proprietary market orders that institutional market makers create specifically to enhance pricing prices for retail users. During that disruptive time post-breach RPI orders from institutional players delivered spread reduction and market stability by fighting volatility and protecting retail traders from aggressive algorithmic approaches. Altcoin Resilience and Tightening Spreads Bitcoin recovery was only the start of a broader market improvement that unfolded afterward. According to Kaiko’s study of the top 30 altcoins by market capitalization showed that March brought the return of 80% or more of the pre-hack market depth. The market saw XRP and DOGE become less volatile because spreads demonstrated substantial consolidation indicative of enhanced market maker presence and decreased execution fees. The essential market stress indicator of bid-ask spread volatility exhibited declining levels throughout March due to rising order book stability combined with deepened liquidity provider participation. The trading volume recovery at Bybit exceeded historical market recovery patterns Bybit’s trading volume bounced back more rapidly than previous market upheavals like the Bitfinex security breach of 2016 and the Binance.US conflict with the SEC during 2023. Kaiko’s trading records showed an initial large spike to $1.2 billion in hourly volume which followed the trading platform breach. Market volumes displayed a short decline on the weekend before they started increasing as users reestablished trust in Bybit’s recovery plan. Effective recovery requires both transparency alongside clear communication between stakeholders Bybit’s recovery strategy separated itself through complete transparency during its crisis response operations. Bybit restored user trust and market liquidity at a rate above average industry benchmarks through its seamless communication and swift execution of market structure enhancements. The way crypto exchanges handle stressful situations now represents a fundamental industry standard as the market evolves. The combination of speedy market stabilization alongside transparent updates and improved user experience operates as an example that establishes new benchmarks for operational stability and recovery speed in the market.

Broadridge Financial Solutions has announced new enhancements to its OpsGPT platform, introducing advanced agentic capabilities aimed at improving fails research, inventory optimization, and email integration. The upgrades are designed to support global post-trade operations with real-time intelligence and execution tools that address rising capital costs, operational risk, and the need for faster settlement cycles. “OpsGPT to optimize how clients can better operate and grow” Quentin Limouzi, Global Head of Post Trade at Broadridge, commented, “We are continuously innovating and evolving OpsGPT to optimize how clients can better operate and grow, particularly by unlocking Agentic capabilities to better manage risk, capital, and operational efficiency in today’s rapidly evolving trading environment. In response to shortened settlement cycles, escalating operational risks and increased cost of capital, firms need to invest in simplifying complex technology ecosystems and harmonize data to enable AI-powered automation.” The latest OpsGPT features include: Fails Research: Identifies root causes of settlement fails and provides real-time, actionable insights to reduce resolution time. Inventory Optimization: Offers global, real-time inventory visibility and suggests asset transfers to minimize capital usage. Email Integration Automation: Reads incoming emails, extracts intent and relevant context, and retrieves internal data to speed up operational response times. OpsGPT now includes agentic AI Broadridge stated that the upgraded OpsGPT now includes agentic AI that can not only surface insights but also recommend and execute actions, enhancing operational decision-making and reducing manual intervention. This shift from automation to intelligent orchestration is supported by the company’s harmonized data model, BRx, which enables consistent data across asset classes and business functions. OpsGPT, integrated with BRx, helps firms streamline data flows across front, middle, and back-office systems, removing silos and supporting advanced analytics, audit readiness, and compliance reporting. By embedding AI at the core of post-trade operations, Broadridge aims to reduce risk, improve capital efficiency, and simplify the end-user experience. The company said that these enhancements deliver quantifiable benefits such as faster fail resolution, cost savings from improved asset utilization, and reduced operational overhead. With increasing demands for automation and transparency in global trading environments, Broadridge positions OpsGPT as a tool for firms seeking to modernize their operations while adapting to evolving regulatory and market conditions.

Binary options are a unique form of financial trading that offers traders a simple yet exciting way to invest in global markets. Unlike traditional investments, binary options allow you to predict the price movement of assets without actually owning them. Their straightforward nature, combined with the potential for high returns in a short period, has made binary options popular among both beginners and experienced traders. How Binary Options Work In binary options trading www.bubinga.com, you make a prediction about the future price of an asset, such as a stock, currency pair, commodity, or index. You choose whether the price will be higher or lower than a specified level at the end of a predetermined time frame — often ranging from 30 seconds to several hours. If your prediction is correct, you receive a fixed payout, typically between 60% to 90% of your investment. If you are wrong, you lose the amount you invested. Example: Imagine you predict that the price of gold will rise above $2,000 in the next hour. If by the end of the hour the price is indeed higher, you win and receive the payout. If not, you lose your stake. Types of Binary Options Binary options come in several different types, each designed to cater to specific trading strategies and risk appetites. Understanding these types is crucial for choosing the right option for your goals. Here are the most common types: 1. High/Low Options (Call/Put Options) This is the most straightforward and popular type of binary option. How it works: You predict whether the price of an asset will be higher (Call option) or lower (Put option) than the current market price at the time of expiration. Example: Suppose a stock is currently trading at $100. You believe it will rise within the next hour. You buy a “Call” option. If the stock price is above $100 at expiry, you earn a profit. If it is below, you lose your investment. High/Low options are ideal for beginners because of their simplicity. 2. One Touch Options One Touch options offer higher payouts but come with higher risk. How it works: You predict whether the price of an asset will touch a predetermined target price at least once before the option expires. Example: If the EUR/USD pair is trading at 1.1000, and the “One Touch” target is 1.1050, you win if the price reaches 1.1050 at any time before expiration — even if it later falls back. One Touch options are great during volatile market conditions when big price moves are expected. 3. No Touch Options This is the opposite of the One Touch option. How it works: You predict that the price will not touch the target price before the expiration time. Example: If the asset is at 1.1000 and the No Touch target is 1.1050, you win if the price stays below 1.1050 until the option expires. No Touch options are useful when you expect low volatility and stable markets. 4. Range (Boundary) Options Range options focus on price stability. How it works: You predict whether the price of an asset will stay within a defined range or move outside it during a set time frame. Example: A stock is trading at $150. A range is set between $145 and $155. If you choose “In Range” and the price remains between $145 and $155 until expiration, you win. Range options are effective when the market is quiet and prices are moving within a limited zone. 5. 60-Second Options Also called Turbo Options, these are ultra-short-term trades. How it works: The expiry time is just 60 seconds after the trade is placed. Example: You predict that the price of Bitcoin will rise in the next minute. You buy a Call option. After 60 seconds, if your prediction is correct, you win. 60-second options are highly risky but popular among traders who prefer fast-paced action. 6. Ladder Options Ladder options are designed for experienced traders seeking higher returns. How it works: Several price levels (or “rungs”) are set above and below the current asset price. Payouts depend on which rung the price reaches by expiration. Example: If the current price of oil is $70, rungs may be set at $71, $72, and $73. Higher rungs offer higher payouts but are harder to achieve. Ladder options reward bold predictions but require strong market analysis skills. Advantages of Binary Options Binary options offer several benefits: Simplicity: No complicated calculations — you only need to predict up or down. Fast Returns: Some options expire in minutes, allowing quick results. Fixed Risk and Reward: You know exactly how much you stand to gain or lose before entering a trade. These factors make binary options appealing to those looking for straightforward financial opportunities. Risks Involved Despite their simplicity, binary options come with significant risks: High Potential for Loss: Due to the “all-or-nothing” outcome, it is possible to lose your entire investment quickly. Fraud and Scams: Unregulated brokers and fraudulent platforms have tarnished the reputation of binary options. Choosing the wrong broker can lead to losing your money through unfair practices. It is crucial to understand that binary options are not a guaranteed way to make money. Responsible trading and realistic expectations are essential. Tips for Successful Binary Trading If you decide to trade binary options, consider the following tips: Invest in Education: Learn about the markets, trading strategies, and how different assets behave. Practice Risk Management: Never invest money you cannot afford to lose. Use small amounts to minimize risk. Choose a Trusted Broker: Look for brokers that are regulated by financial authorities. Check user reviews and research before depositing money. Control Emotions: Trading requires discipline. Avoid chasing losses or overtrading due to emotions. By following these tips, you can trade more confidently and minimize the risks. Conclusion Binary options offer a fast-paced, easy-to-understand way to engage with financial markets. However, the potential for high returns is matched by equally high risks. Success in binary trading depends on education, disciplined strategy, and working with trustworthy brokers. Always remember: responsible trading is the key to long-term profitability. This content is the opinion of the paid contributor and does not reflect the viewpoint of FinanceFeeds or its editorial staff. It has not been independently verified and FinanceFeeds does not bear any responsibility for any information or description of services that it may contain. Information contained in this post is not advice nor a recommendation and thus should not be treated as such. We strongly recommend that you seek independent financial advice from a qualified and regulated professional, before participating or investing in any financial activities or services. Please also read and review our full disclaimer.

Feedzai has released its 2025 AI Trends in Fraud and Financial Crime Prevention report, which shows that more than 50 percent of financial fraud now involves artificial intelligence. The report highlights the increasing use of generative AI by criminals to create deepfakes, synthetic identities, and voice cloning schemes, while banks respond with AI-powered tools of their own to defend against these tactics. The findings show that 92 percent of financial institutions believe criminals already use generative AI in scams. Of those surveyed, 60 percent flagged voice cloning as a major concern, followed by 59 percent who identified phishing scams delivered through AI-generated text. Deepfakes featured in 44 percent of reported incidents, often used to build trust in early scam stages. Social engineering, cited by 56 percent of professionals, remains a central strategy, now supercharged by AI. “We’re seeing scam techniques that feel genuinely human” Anusha Parisutham, Senior Director of Product and AI at Feedzai, commented, “Today’s scams don’t come with typos and obvious red flags—they come with perfect grammar, realistic cloned voices, and videos of people who’ve never existed. We’re seeing scam techniques that feel genuinely human because they’re being engineered by AI with that intention. But now, financial institutions also have to deploy advanced AI technologies to fight fire with fire to combat scams.” Banks are deploying AI to detect fraud in real time, with 90 percent using AI tools across fraud detection, transaction monitoring, and money laundering investigations. Among these, 50 percent of institutions use AI for scam detection, 39 percent for transactional fraud, and 30 percent for anti-money laundering processes. However, Feedzai’s report also outlines the challenges financial institutions face when implementing AI. The leading issue is data management, with 87 percent of banks citing fragmented data and regulatory constraints as major barriers. Smaller institutions in particular struggle with integrating AI at scale while meeting compliance requirements. Pedro Bizarro, Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer at Feedzai, said, “In some ways, AI is like a car. When automakers design a car, they don’t just think about horsepower. They also consider safety features such as seatbelts, airbags, and anti-lock brakes that will keep drivers and passengers safe. The same is true for AI. Models that aren’t designed with trust at the forefront can lead to significant problems for users.” To address concerns around transparency and fairness, 89 percent of surveyed banks prioritize explainability and governance in their AI systems. Feedzai developed the TRUST framework to support the development of AI tools that are transparent, robust, unbiased, secure, and thoroughly tested. The report found that while criminals benefit from unconstrained use of AI, banks must follow ethical and legal guidelines, which adds complexity to their defense efforts. Even so, financial institutions are seeing gains from AI, with 43 percent reporting increased efficiency across fraud teams. The technology allows human analysts to focus on more complex fraud investigations by automating repetitive, lower-risk alerts. Looking ahead, Feedzai expects the next wave of AI defense tools to include behavioral analytics and real-time anomaly detection, pushing detection capabilities further. While AI will not replace humans in fraud prevention, it is already enhancing their capacity to detect and respond to evolving threats at scale. AI is now embedded in both sides of financial crime—fueling sophisticated attacks and enabling fast, scalable responses. For banks, the balance lies in using AI responsibly while continuing to adapt to new threat vectors. Feedzai’s report signals that while the threat is growing, so is the ability of institutions to counter it.

Bitcoin (BTC) is currently trading around $96,912, marking a 3.04% increase over the last 24 hours. The leading cryptocurrency has seen an intraday high of $97,513 and a low of $93,587, reflecting growing volatility as it inches closer to the psychological $100,000 threshold. Technical indicators point to a mixed short-term outlook. On the upside, BTC faces significant resistance near $99,900, where analysts suggest long-term holders may begin profit-taking, potentially triggering increased selling pressure. On the downside, BTC maintains strong support at $92,000, with a more robust safety net around the $85,000 level. A break below these zones could indicate a shift toward a bearish trend. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains in bullish territory, although waning trading volumes have raised questions about the sustainability of the current upward momentum. Sentiment in the crypto market remains cautiously optimistic. On-chain data indicates resilience among holders, but not without warning signs. One such signal is the Coinbase Premium Gap turning negative, which implies a hesitancy among U.S.-based investors to buy at current levels. This divergence between spot market enthusiasm and regional investor behavior could foreshadow a near-term correction. Meanwhile, derivatives markets have shown rising open interest, indicating leveraged positions are accumulating—a potential catalyst for volatility in either direction. Bitcoin’s short-term trajectory suggests it is well-positioned to challenge the $100,000 mark, driven by bullish sentiment and technical strength. However, traders should remain alert to key resistance levels and evolving market signals. With investor caution creeping in and trading volume showing signs of fatigue, the next few days could determine whether this rally is a breakout or a blow-off top. Ethereum (ETH) is currently trading at approximately $1,837.80, posting a 2.39% increase over the past 24 hours. The second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization reached an intraday high of $1,845.68 and a low of $1,757.58, reflecting a relatively strong rebound after recent market consolidation. ETH faces immediate resistance near the $1,850 level—a critical threshold that, if broken, could trigger a bullish rally toward the $2,000–$2,150 range. On the downside, strong support is established around $1,700. A breakdown below this support could initiate a bearish reversal. Technically, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains above 50, signaling bullish momentum. However, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is nearing a bearish crossover, prompting traders to maintain a cautious stance. The broader sentiment surrounding Ethereum remains cautiously optimistic, bolstered by the launch of the Pectra upgrade on May 7. This latest protocol enhancement is designed to improve staking efficiency and wallet usability—two key pillars for long-term ETH utility and adoption. However, institutional sentiment appears more tepid. BlackRock’s Ethereum ETF recorded zero net inflows on May 7, suggesting a momentary pause in institutional accumulation despite positive technical and fundamental developments. Ethereum’s short-term outlook shows signs of a potential breakout, particularly if it can close decisively above the $1,850 resistance level. While network upgrades and positive momentum indicators support a bullish scenario, mixed institutional interest and a possible MACD crossover warrant caution. Traders should closely monitor key technical levels and upcoming market developments to determine ETH’s next move.