Category: crypto

SharpLink purchased an additional 10,000 ETH for $16.1 million, increasing its total Ethereum holdings to 886,725 ETH. Despite this, Ethereum is on track for its third consecutive quarterly decline. Bitmine also expanded its ETH holdings to over 5.7 million, adding to institutional buying. Analysts are monitoring the $1,500 support level for Ethereum.

Ripple has proposed an XRP Ledger lending protocol for institutional borrowers and lenders, allowing them to borrow digital assets without selling their holdings. The system would support lending markets for various assets on the XRP Ledger, keeping credit decisions off-chain while loan servicing moves on-chain. The proposal awaits validator approval.

BlackRock, Coinbase, Ripple, Mastercard, and other financial firms are partnering to launch OUSD, a stablecoin that distributes reserve earnings through shared governance. OUSD offers zero-fee minting and redemption, with a decentralized governance model led by institutional members. The stablecoin will debut on Solana and Tempo with a revenue-sharing model.

The SEC is seeking public feedback on regulating novel ETFs that invest in new asset classes or use unconventional strategies. This consultation comes as prediction market ETF applications from Roundhill, Bitwise, and GraniteShares are pending. The SEC is also reviewing listing rules, competitive filing practices, and oversight of crypto-related investment products.

The crypto industry has contributed $189 million to the 2026 U.S. election cycle, surpassing 2024 levels. Ripple and Coinbase-backed PACs, led by Fairshake, are among the biggest sources of political spending. Rising voter interest in crypto and the ongoing CLARITY Act debate continue to shape the industry’s political influence.

Nasdaq has partnered with Pyth Network to provide TotalView order book data to blockchain applications. This move expands Nasdaq’s crypto strategy and gives developers access to institutional-grade market data. Other traditional exchanges, like Intercontinental Exchange, are also integrating digital assets into their products, signaling a growing trend in the industry.

Circle Internet Group shares fell 17.5% after the launch of Open USD, a stablecoin backed by BlackRock, Google, Visa, Coinbase, and 140+ other companies. Open USD offers a revenue-sharing model that distributes reserve income to ecosystem participants, challenging Circle’s business model. Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire remains confident in USDC’s expansion despite growing competition.

OKX has launched a beta version of an AI marketplace where AI agents can find work, complete tasks, and receive onchain payments. The platform includes features such as agent discovery, identity verification, escrow payments, reputation tracking, and decentralized dispute resolution. This launch expands OKX’s product offerings and supports tokenized finance initiatives in Europe.

Galaxy Digital has reduced the likelihood of the CLARITY Act passing in 2026 to 50%. Senate Republicans are still pushing for a vote when lawmakers return from recess, with ongoing negotiations focusing on key policy differences. The chances of the bill passing may be affected by procedural hurdles and the need for bipartisan support.