Category: crypto

Curve Finance has launched Llamalend v2 on Optimism, allowing users to access isolated lending markets and non-crvUSD borrowing pairs. LP tokens can now be used as collateral, and the system includes risk controls and liquidation models. The deployment starts with three isolated markets and a 250,000 OP incentive program before an Ethereum mainnet launch.

Brad Garlinghouse supported claims that Wall Street firms are adopting XRP’s institutional finance vision. Hugo Philion stated that Ripple’s payments strategy remains consistent despite criticism. The XRP Ledger is preparing for a software upgrade. Ripple also supports Mastercard’s new AI payments network. Many crypto firms are now seeking relationships with traditional finance institutions.

Nigeria’s Senate has advanced a bill that would establish formal regulations for cryptocurrency firms and virtual asset operators. The Virtual Asset Service Providers Regulation Bill, 2026, passed the second reading and is now under committee review. The bill aims to introduce licensing, compliance rules, and consumer protection measures for Nigeria’s crypto market.

Amazon has secured a $17.5 billion delayed draw term loan facility from Citibank and other banks. The loan will support general corporate purposes, including investments and debt repayment. The financing is linked to Amazon’s AI spending plans and could help fund artificial intelligence investments. Amazon also recently sold high-grade bonds.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has introduced GRID Standards for data center projects seeking state support. Developers must pay for new power generation, disclose project details, and secure certification. Separate bills from lawmakers aim to change tax exemptions, water rules, power requirements, and zoning powers for data centers in the state.

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz to all vessels after US attacks. Iranian military command cited security threats and warned ships against passing through the waterway. US Central Command launched fresh strikes on Iran, prompting talks to end the conflict. Iran continues to pressure the US as Qatar sends a delegation for diplomatic discussions.

Delaware and New Jersey are advancing bills to ban crypto ATMs in response to increasing scam complaints related to the machines. The move comes after FBI data showed a high number of complaints and losses nationwide. Other states have already implemented total bans on crypto ATMs, with Canada also considering restrictions. The bills in Delaware…

Token of Power suffered an exploit that drained over $1.5 million from its liquidity pool. On-chain firms reported the incident, with Blockaid describing it as a governance-takeover attack. The attacker moved stolen funds into Tornado Cash. The incident followed a separate breach at Humanity Protocol. Recovery details are not yet available.

Bitcoin traders are anticipating that the Federal Reserve will leave interest rates unchanged at the upcoming meeting, with a 98.3% probability according to CME FedWatch data. This has led to a cautious approach in the crypto market, as investors focus on signals from Fed Chair Kevin Warsh and the updated economic projections.

Wirex has joined Visa’s Agentic Ready program to test AI agents making payments using stablecoins. Initial trials will focus on SaaS subscriptions, marketing spend management, and procurement automation. The initiative expands Visa’s work in stablecoin payments and blockchain-based settlement systems, aiming to ensure secure and transparent transactions.