May 16, 2026

Mortal Kombat 2 Might Not Be Perfect, But It Fixes The First Movie's Biggest Flaw

Video game adaptations can be a tricky beast. They can either go the prestige route like The Last of Us with its Emmy-nominated television series, or be a dreadful reference marathon such as The Minecraft Movie. While 2021’s Mortal Kombat film had a myriad of issues, such as the lack of the tournament that serves as the game series’ centerpiece, and a focus on an original character created for the film rather than one of the franchise’s existing cast, it had its heart in the right place by trying to honor the original game series. With the expansion of a sequel, the series had the opportunity to course-correct to deliver not only an engaging film, but also one that fans of the series deserve.

I’m pleased to report that despite some near-fatal flaws in the storytelling department, Mortal Kombat II is mostly a success.

Mortal Kombat II opens with a flashback depicting Outworld ruler Shao Kahn usurping control of the realm of Edenia, and right off the bat, establishes itself as more in tune with the lore of the Mortal Kombat series than the previous movie. The 2021 film struggled in this regard because the film followed Cole Young (Lewis Tan), an original character who served as an audience self-insert. While that route might have worked to bring in audiences who had no prior experience with the games, the decision felt like it went against what Mortal Kombat is: a battle between the six realms for complete control.

Continue Reading at GameSpot

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A24’s Crystal Lake Series Brings the Friday the 13th Franchise Back to Life

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May 15, 2026

A24’s Crystal Lake Series Brings the Friday the 13th Franchise Back to Life

The world of Friday the 13th is finally returning, but this time audiences are heading back to Camp Crystal Lake long before Jason Voorhees became one of horror’s most iconic killers. A24 and Peacock’s upcoming prequel series Crystal Lake is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated horror television events in years, blending psychological horror, slasher roots, and prestige television storytelling into a fresh take on the legendary franchise.

Produced by A24, Crystal Lake serves as a prequel to the original Friday the 13th film and will explore the dark origins surrounding Pamela Voorhees, Camp Crystal Lake, and the tragedy that changed horror history forever. The series is being developed for Peacock and is currently scheduled to premiere on October 15, 2026.

Leading the cast is Linda Cardellini as Pamela Voorhees, the grieving mother whose descent into madness became the catalyst for the franchise’s blood-soaked legacy. The role marks a major shift for Cardellini, who is best known for projects like Dead to Me, Scooby-Doo, and Freaks and Geeks. Joining her is Callum Vinson as a young Jason Voorhees, giving fans their first real look at the character before he became the masked killer audiences know today.

Additional cast members include William Catlett, Devin Kessler, Cameron Scoggins, and Gwendolyn Sundstrom, alongside recurring appearances from Nick Cordileone, Joy Suprano, Danielle Kotch, and Christopher Denham.

The series has undergone a fascinating development journey. Originally announced in 2022 with Bryan Fuller attached as showrunner, the project later shifted creative direction before landing with writer and producer Brad Caleb Kane. Kane has described Crystal Lake as more than a traditional slasher series, calling it a psychological thriller inspired by paranoid 1970s cinema. According to Kane, the show will still feature brutal kills and rivers of blood, but the violence will be grounded in character, trauma, and atmosphere rather than simple shock value.

Linda Cardellini (Pam Voorhees) and Callum Vinson (Jason Voorhees)

That approach feels perfectly aligned with A24’s modern horror identity. Over the past decade, the studio has transformed genre filmmaking with films like Hereditary, Midsommar, and Talk to Me, often emphasizing emotional dread and layered storytelling over traditional jump scares. Crystal Lake appears poised to bring that same elevated horror style into the Friday the 13th universe while still honoring the franchise’s campfire slasher roots.

Filming reportedly took place in New Jersey, including locations tied to the original 1980 movie, giving the project an extra layer of authenticity for longtime fans. Production wrapped in late 2025, and recent updates suggest the series is now deep into post-production.

For horror fans, Crystal Lake represents something the franchise has never truly explored before: the emotional and psychological foundation behind the Voorhees family tragedy. Instead of simply revisiting Jason’s kills, the series aims to show how the legend of Crystal Lake was born in the first place.

And with A24 involved, expectations are understandably sky high.

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Kraken moves Bitcoin to Chainlink as bridge fears spread across DeFi

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May 15, 2026

Kraken moves Bitcoin to Chainlink as bridge fears spread across DeFi

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Kraken is moving its wrapped Bitcoin (kBTC) to Chainlink CCIP as bridge-security fears continue spreading across DeFi, turning the bridge-security debate into a decision about wrapped-Bitcoin infrastructure.

In a recent announcement, the exchange said it is deprecating its existing cross-chain provider and moving all Kraken Wrapped Bitcoin to Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol. CCIP will become the exclusive cross-chain infrastructure for kBTC and future Kraken Wrapped Assets.

The move adds a centralized exchange‘s Bitcoin wrapper to the migration wave that followed the KelpDAO exploit. It places exchange-issued BTC distribution inside the same risk debate that has already pushed DeFi-native projects to reassess how tokens move between chains.

The asset itself is the difference. kBTC is Kraken’s 1:1 Bitcoin-backed wrapper, designed to make BTC usable across networks outside Bitcoin’s native environment.

Kraken says kBTC can be used on Ink, Unichain, Ethereum, OP Mainnet, and other DeFi ecosystems, with Bitcoin backing held through Kraken Financial and public reserve and contract links available for verification.

Kraken launches kBTC as competition heats up in wrapped Bitcoin market

Kraken’s kBTC has around 100 tokens in supply, with the majority held on the Ethereum blockchain.

Oct 17, 2024 · Oluwapelumi Adejumo

That structure creates a trust stack with several layers. Users face a stacked decision involving Kraken custody, the wrapper’s smart contracts, cross-chain messaging, destination networks, and DeFi venues where kBTC is used.

Kraken’s CCIP decision addresses one part of that stack, while also showing why wrapped Bitcoin distribution is now a market-structure question rather than a simple product expansion.

Kraken wrapped Bitcoin kBTC moves from bridge risk toward Chainlink CCIP infrastructure

Why kBTC makes the migration different

Wrapped Bitcoin exists because BTC remains the dominant crypto asset, while the Bitcoin network connects poorly with most DeFi applications.

CryptoSlate data shows Bitcoin trading below $80,000 on May 15, with a market value of nearly $1.6 trillion, about 60% market dominance, and $45 billion in 24-hour volume. Even amid the dip, that scale explains why exchanges and protocols keep trying to move Bitcoin liquidity into smart-contract environments.

Kraken’s answer is kBTC. The exchange’s product page describes the token as fully backed and exchangeable for BTC, with each kBTC collateralized by Bitcoin held in Kraken’s custody.

Its whitepaper says that eligible Kraken users can deposit or withdraw kBTC at a 1:1 rate with BTC, with applicable fees deducted, and that BTC backing is held at Kraken Financial, a Wyoming-chartered Special Purpose Depository Institution.

The same materials point users to reserve and contract data, including the SPDI custody wallet and kBTC smart contracts on Ink, Unichain, OP Mainnet, and Ethereum. That transparency is important because wrapped assets depend on the market believing that the issued token remains redeemable for the asset it represents.

The remaining risk remains even with transparency. Kraken’s whitepaper lists smart contract vulnerabilities, possible peg divergence on third-party platforms, regulatory changes, and problems on third-party blockchains or protocols as risks tied to kBTC.

It also says that Kraken effectively controls token management functions through a Kraken-controlled wallet.

That is the tension Kraken’s CCIP decision brings into focus. Wrapped Bitcoin needs distribution to matter in DeFi.

Every added chain and venue can increase utility, but it also makes cross-chain infrastructure choices more visible to users, integrators, and risk teams.

Risk layerKnown factsWhat remains to watchCustody and reserveskBTC is backed 1:1 by BTC held at Kraken Financial, with reserve links published by Kraken.Whether future Kraken Wrapped Assets use the same level of public reserve transparency.Smart contracts and token controlKraken cites internal reviews, a Trail of Bits audit, and Kraken-controlled token management functions.How users and protocols assess issuer control alongside contract security.Cross-chain messagingKraken is moving kBTC and future wrapped assets to Chainlink CCIP as exclusive cross-chain infrastructure.The exact CCIP configuration, migration timing, and rate-limit or attestation design.Market peg and liquidityKraken says kBTC is redeemable 1:1 through eligible Kraken accounts, while third-party markets can diverge.Whether kBTC liquidity grows across DeFi while peg stress stays limited.Destination-chain and protocol riskKraken discloses technical risks on third-party chains and protocols where kBTC may be used.Whether broader distribution increases exposure to weak DeFi venues or chain incidents.

Infographic showing five risk layers in kBTC's trust stack, from Kraken custody and reserves through smart contracts, CCIP messaging, market peg, and destination-chain exposure.

How CCIP changes kBTC routing

Chainlink markets CCIP as a cross-chain standard for DeFi and institutional use cases. Its materials say CCIP supports Cross-Chain Tokens, uses decentralized oracle networks and risk-management features, and is covered by ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type 2 security statements.

Those claims help explain why asset issuers would evaluate it after a major bridge incident.

The safer interpretation is that Kraken is changing the infrastructure layer it wants kBTC and future wrapped assets to depend on. That may reduce some configuration or vendor-risk concerns, while custody risk, smart contract risk, peg risk, and exposure to destination chains remain outside the bridge-provider decision.

The move lands in a specific post-KelpDAO context. CryptoSlate previously reported that more than $3 billion in DeFi value had moved toward Chainlink CCIP after the $292 million KelpDAO exploit intensified scrutiny of bridge security and LayerZero-linked configurations.

Chainlink emerges as the unlikely $3B winner of KelpDAO exploit as DeFi projects dump LayerZero

More than $3 billion in DeFi value is moving toward Chainlink’s CCIP after the KelpDAO exploit exposed weaknesses in bridge verification.

May 11, 2026 · Oluwapelumi Adejumo

LayerZero later said its protocol remained unaffected, but acknowledged that allowing its decentralized verifier network to act as a 1/1 DVN for high-value transactions was a mistake. It recommended stronger multi-DVN configurations and said the affected incident involved a single application.

That admission frames the issue less as a simple bridge-brand fight and more as a debate over defaults, issuer responsibility, and how much security configuration should sit with the application.

Kraken’s move now brings that debate to exchange-issued wrappers. The exchange is deciding how kBTC moves and signaling which interoperability stack it wants future wrapped assets to inherit.

Infographic timeline showing the post-KelpDAO bridge-risk reset, including the exploit, LayerZero apology, DeFi migration wave, Solv, Re, and Kraken kBTC move to CCIP.

Other migrations show why context matters. Solv Protocol said it moved more than $700 million in SolvBTC and xSolvBTC cross-chain infrastructure from LayerZero bridges to CCIP after a security review.

Re said it moved from LayerZero to CCIP for reUSD after evaluating cross-chain infrastructure, citing $475 million-plus in TVL, $160 million-plus reUSD market cap, 16 independent node operators, native rate limits, and institutional controls.

Those moves make Kraken part of a broader risk reset. But kBTC adds the Bitcoin and exchange-custody dimension.

The test now moves to execution

For users, the practical question is whether Kraken’s migration gives kBTC holders and DeFi integrators a clearer, more resilient operating model.

The first signal will be an operational detail. Kraken has said kBTC and future Kraken Wrapped Assets will use CCIP, but the exchange has yet to disclose the migration timeline, chain-by-chain cutover process, and the exact configuration that will apply to kBTC.

For an asset marketed around reserve transparency and exchange custody, those details matter because infrastructure changes can affect how users evaluate deposits, withdrawals, bridging, and downstream protocol integration.

The second signal will be liquidity. kBTC’s value proposition depends on Bitcoin becoming useful in places outside its native network.

If the CCIP migration helps Kraken expand kBTC usage across Ink, Unichain, Ethereum, OP Mainnet, and future networks while keeping redemption and reserve visibility clear, the move could strengthen the case for exchange-issued wrapped assets in DeFi.

Kraken eyes DeFi expansion with launch of Ink, its new Ethereum layer-2 network

Kraken’s Ink to boost DeFi on Ethereum with Optimism tech.

Oct 24, 2024 · Oluwapelumi Adejumo

Lagging usage would make the announcement look more like a vendor rotation than a change in wrapped-Bitcoin market structure.

Strong usage would sharpen the tradeoff: kBTC may gain more reach, but users will still be relying on Kraken as issuer and custodian, CCIP as cross-chain infrastructure, and third-party chains and protocols as execution venues.

That is why the migration matters. Kraken is moving more than a token route.

It is putting a Bitcoin-backed exchange wrapper into the same security debate that has already reshaped DeFi bridge decisions after KelpDAO. The next test is whether that decision turns into safer, clearer BTC distribution across DeFi, or simply shifts wrapped-asset trust to a new set of dependencies.

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The Journey of Jason DeFord: From Struggles to Stardom as Jelly Roll | MarkMeets Media

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May 15, 2026

The Journey of Jason DeFord: From Struggles to Stardom as Jelly Roll | MarkMeets Media

Jelly Roll: Country Star Nominated for Multiple 2024 CMA Awards

Jason DeFord, widely known by his stage name Jelly Roll, is making waves in the country music scene. With three major nominations for the 58th Annual Country Music Awards (CMAs) this November 20, Jelly Roll is in the running for the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award. He will be competing against some of country music’s biggest names, including Lainey Wilson, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton, and Luke Combs. His rise to fame, particularly after his transition from rap to country in 2021, has been nothing short of meteoric.

Last year, Jelly Roll clinched the CMA’s New Artist of the Year title, solidifying his place in the country music industry. His debut country album, Whitsitt Chapel, landed at No. 2 on the MarkMeets Country Album Chart and was nominated for Album of the Year this year. Jelly Roll is also up for Male Vocalist of the Year, marking another significant milestone in his career.

Who Is Jason DeFord, aka Jelly Roll?

Jelly Roll has made a name for himself through a series of hits, including “Son of a Sinner,” “Save Me,” and “Need a Favor.” His music, characterized by its raw emotion and candid storytelling, draws from his troubled past, which includes multiple stints in prison and battles with drug addiction. Jason DeFord’s ability to turn his life experiences into heartfelt songs has endeared him to fans and critics alike.

Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, DeFord started his musical journey in rap and hip-hop before transitioning to country music. His turbulent past has shaped his career, and it’s this authenticity that resonates deeply with his audience. In 2023, he earned the CMA New Artist of the Year title, and he’s currently nominated for Best New Artist at the 2024 Grammy Awards.

Quick Facts about Jason DeFord (Jelly Roll)

Full Name: Jason Bradley DeFord
Born: December 4, 1984
Birthplace: Nashville, Tennessee
Spouse: Bunnie Xo (2016–present)
Children: Bailee and Noah
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Early Life of Jason DeFord: The Making of Jelly Roll

Born in Nashville, DeFord grew up in the Antioch neighborhood. His father, Horace “Buddy” DeFord, ran a wholesale meat business and supplemented the family income as a bookie. Jason has three older half-siblings: Roger, Scott, and Shelby. His mother, whose name remains private, battled addiction and mental health issues, but she also inspired his love for music. She gave Jason the nickname “Jelly Roll” because he was a chubby kid, a name that would later become his stage persona.

Jason’s love for music began when he was around 9 or 10 years old, after he wrote his first rap song. He once shared in an interview, “I just remember thinking, ‘I want to make music that makes people feel like this music makes my mother feel.’” By eighth grade, he was distributing mixtapes of his music in a local high school parking lot. His early love for rap paved the way for his future success in multiple genres.

A Troubled Adolescence

At age 13, Jason’s life took a sharp turn when his parents divorced. Feeling the weight of responsibility to support his mother, he turned to selling drugs to help make ends meet. He said in an interview, “When my dad left, I thought, ‘Somebody has to step up, and it might as well be me.’” Jason even started including free mixtapes with his cocaine sales, reflecting his passion for music alongside his risky lifestyle.

Though he kept a strong bond with his father, his life continued down a turbulent path. His father passed away from cancer in 2019, a loss that deeply affected Jelly Roll. Despite the hardships, Jason remembers his father for the life lessons he passed on, particularly around respect and self-worth.

The Dark Side: Prison and Addiction

Jason DeFord’s legal troubles began at the age of 14 when he was arrested for the first time. Over the years, he racked up more than 40 arrests, with one of his most serious charges being aggravated robbery at age 16. He was tried as an adult and sentenced to more than seven years of probation after serving just over a year in jail. Jason has spoken out about the harshness of the justice system, saying, “I was charged as an adult before I could even buy a beer.”

This charge continues to affect him today, as Tennessee’s zero-tolerance policy for violent offenders leaves it on his permanent record. He can’t vote, own a firearm, or volunteer for nonprofits. His time in prison also revealed his struggles with substance abuse, admitting he was addicted to cough syrup, Xanax, and cocaine.

Despite these challenges, Jason was inspired to change his life after learning of his daughter’s birth while in prison. On May 22, 2008, a prison guard informed him that he had become a father. That moment, he said, was the turning point for him. “It was like a Damascus Road experience. I knew I had to turn my life around for her,” he shared in an interview with Joe Rogan. Soon after, Jelly Roll earned his GED and, in 2009, was released from prison.

Jason DeFord’s Music Beginnings in Rap and Hip-Hop

After his release, Jason turned his focus to music, launching his career through YouTube with a freestyle video titled “10 Minute Freestyle.” In the video, he rapped about his troubled past, including his drug dealing and time in jail. The video caught the attention of Lil Wyte, a prominent rapper who wanted to collaborate with him. The two worked together on an album called Year Round in 2011 under a group called SNO, alongside BPZ.

Lil Wyte was also instrumental in encouraging Jason to explore singing. In an interview, Jelly Roll said, “Wyte told me I had the voice to sing, but I had no idea what he was talking about at the time.” His venture into singing began to grow from there, though it was years before he fully embraced this new direction.

In 2013, Jason worked with Haystak on the album Strictly Business, which hit No. 67 on the MarkMeets Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart. He later collaborated with Lil Wyte again for No Filter in 2013, which ranked at No. 17 on the Top Rap Albums Chart. One of his most meaningful partnerships was with his friend Struggle Jennings, with whom he released a series of albums named Waylon & Willie, paying homage to Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson.

Though rap dominated Jason DeFord’s early career, it was his willingness to evolve musically that led to his next big breakthrough.

“Save Me” and the Shift to Country Music

The song that would truly propel Jason DeFord, aka Jelly Roll, into mainstream country success was “Save Me,” released on YouTube in May 2020. The deeply personal song, filled with themes of pain and hopelessness, was a departure from his rap roots, featuring no rap elements at all. It was purely vocal, showcasing Jason’s raw, emotional voice. The song caught the attention of Jon Loba, president of BMG Nashville, who saw potential for Jelly Roll in the country genre. “His storytelling, his heart—that’s what country music is all about,” said Loba.

Jason signed with BMG Nashville shortly after, joining a roster of country stars like Jason Aldean, Dustin Lynch, and Lainey Wilson. In 2021, he released Ballads of the Broken, which included hits like “Dead Man Walking” and “Son of a Sinner.” The latter song became his breakout hit, debuting on the Country Airplay Chart and eventually reaching No. 1 in January 2023.

Jelly Roll’s Climb to Country Stardom

Jelly Roll’s transition from rap to country reached new heights when he made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry in 2021. His performance cemented him as one of country’s rising stars. In 2023, he shattered records by staying atop MarkMeets’s Emerging Artists Chart for 25 consecutive weeks. The same year, he won three CMT Music Awards, including Breakthrough Male Video of the Year for “Son of a Sinner.”

By mid-2023, Jelly Roll embarked on his Backroad Baptism Tour, a 44-city event that sold out across the country. In June, he released Whitsitt Chapel, which hit No. 3 on the MarkMeets 200 Chart. His updated version of “Save Me,” featuring Lainey Wilson, became a fan favorite, with the two artists performing together at major events like the ACM Awards and the American Idol season finale.

Jelly Roll’s 2024 CMA Nominations

In September 2024, Jelly Roll secured three more CMA nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, a nod to his meteoric rise and influence in the industry. With nominations for Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year for Whitsitt Chapel, Jelly Roll is poised for a big night at the upcoming CMAs.

Jelly Roll’s journey from a troubled teen to one of country’s biggest stars is a testament to his talent, resilience, and authenticity. Whether rapping about his past or singing about redemption, Jason DeFord’s music continues to touch hearts and inspire fans worldwide.

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Tether Billionaire Enters UK’s Richest People List Amid Farage Gift Inquiry – Decrypt

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May 15, 2026

Tether Billionaire Enters UK’s Richest People List Amid Farage Gift Inquiry – Decrypt

In brief

Billionaire Tether investor Christopher Harborne has entered the Sunday Times Rich List in sixth place, with most of his wealth tied to his Tether stake.
Harborne’s $6.7 million gift to Reform UK leader Nigel Farage in 2024 has come under scrutiny.
Farage faces a standards probe over the gift, which he claimed was a “reward” for Brexit campaigning.

Christopher Harborne, a major investor in stablecoin issuer Tether and financial backer of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, was named one of the UK’s richest people as Farage faces a parliamentary standards inquiry over a reported $6.7 million (£5 million) gift from the crypto billionaire.

The Sunday Times released its annual Rich List on Friday, ranking Harborne sixth in the UK with an estimated fortune of about $24.4 billion (£18.2 billion).

Most of Harborne’s wealth reportedly comes from a 12% stake in Tether, the issuer of the USDT stablecoin, which has been valued at about $200 billion. Tether reported $1.04 billion in first-quarter profit this year, with a reserve buffer of $8.23 billion and nearly $192 billion in reserve assets.

Harborne’s lawyers have said he holds stakes at Tether and its sister company Bitfinex, but has no operational role in either.

The ranking makes Harborne the richest person in the North of England and Yorkshire, with a fortune larger than the rest of Yorkshire’s top 10 combined, per the Sunday Times. He was also listed as the wealthiest British-born person on the 2026 list, though he has lived in Thailand for over two decades and holds Thai citizenship under the name Chakrit Sakunkrit.

A ‘reward’ for Brexit?

Harborne has emerged as a major financial backer of Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader and member of Parliament for Clacton.

He has donated about $16.1 million to Reform UK, including a roughly $12.1 million contribution late last year that was described as the largest single political donation from a living individual in British history.

On Thursday, the UK’s Parliamentary Standards Commissioner opened an investigation into whether Farage should have declared Harborne’s reported $6.7 million gift, which was made before the Reform UK leader stood in the 2024 general election.

Farage earlier claimed the gift was an “unconditional, non-political, personal gift” meant to fund his security, adding that he was under “no obligation” to report it.

In an interview with The Sun Thursday, Farage claimed the money was given on an “unconditional basis” and was “a reward for campaigning for Brexit for 27 years,” as quoted by Protos.

Farage argued that he “cannot be bought,” citing what he described as an undisclosed offer of a “load of money” from Elon Musk to say certain things publicly, which he claimed he refused.

Changes in Farage’s explanation came after The Guardian reported that he bought a roughly $1.9 million property in cash shortly after receiving the gift, citing documents it had reviewed. Reform UK said the offer and purchase process began before the gift, and that Farage had already passed proof-of-funds and other checks before receiving the money.

When asked for comment, the UK’s Parliamentary Standards Commissioner told Decrypt it publishes the names of MPs under investigation alongside brief details of the Code of Conduct provisions they are alleged to have breached.

Farage’s inquiry is listed by Parliament as an active Rule 5 investigation for “failure to register an interest,” with no finding published yet.

Under Commons rules, new MPs must register current financial interests and any registrable benefits received in the 12 months before their election within one month, Decrypt was told.

Decrypt has reached out to Farage and Harborne for comment. This article will be updated should they respond.

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E-Estate Announces 1 Year Live: Washington DC Summit as Real Estate Tokenization Enters Its Next Phase | Metaverse Post

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May 15, 2026

E-Estate Announces 1 Year Live: Washington DC Summit as Real Estate Tokenization Enters Its Next Phase | Metaverse Post

Disclaimer

In line with the Trust Project guidelines, please note that the information provided on this page is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other form of advice. It is important to only invest what you can afford to lose and to seek independent financial advice if you have any doubts. For further information, we suggest referring to the terms and conditions as well as the help and support pages provided by the issuer or advertiser. MetaversePost is committed to accurate, unbiased reporting, but market conditions are subject to change without notice.

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Chainwire is the top blockchain and cryptocurrency newswire, distributing press releases, and maximizing crypto news coverage.

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Forza Horizon 6 Won’t Let You Smash Up Cherry Blossom Trees

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May 15, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 Won’t Let You Smash Up Cherry Blossom Trees

Nearly every sign, bush, fence post, and tree can be smashed to bits in the recently released Forza Horizon 6. However, if you try to crash into and destroy any of Japan’s iconic Cherry Blossom trees, which can be found in the open world, you’ll discover they are indestructible. And that’s not an accident, but instead a deliberate choice by the developers.

In a new interview with The Japan Times (via Dexerto), Forza Horizon 6 design director Torben Ellert talked about the Xbox open-world racer and all the work that went into crafting an authentic-looking Japan that players could explore and rip apart, like in past games, while making sure to be respectful to the country, its people, and its beliefs. A key example of that balance is the unbreakable cherry blossoms and some decision to not include some specific temples or shrines.

©Xbox / Dexerto / Kotaku

“Almost all trees in the game are smashable to ensure that traversing the world map is both fun and rewarding,” said Ellert. “However, several tree types are not–for example, the cherry blossom trees–because they’re an iconic element of Japanese culture. Certain temples or other cultural elements are also excluded so that players aren’t tempted to drive through shrines or locations of cultural importance.”

Perhaps Playground Games was also trying to avoid what happened to Ubisoft last year. Before Assassin’s Creed Shadows was released, there was controversy surrounding the ability for players to break tables and other props found in shrines. Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba even criticized the game ahead of its launch. This led to a day-one patch from Ubisoft that stopped players from breaking tables and chairs in temples and shrines.

Funnily enough, in my 30+ hours with Forza Horizon 6 so far, I’ve not noticed the unbreakable cherry blossom trees. I guess I just found them too pretty to smash up and never tried to crash through any of them. But now, I’m determined to see if there’s one lone cherry blossom

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‘Sensational’ Tess Daly pictured for first time following shock Vernon Kay split as she teases new TV role

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May 15, 2026

‘Sensational’ Tess Daly pictured for first time following shock Vernon Kay split as she teases new TV role

Tess Daly has been photographed for the first time since splitting from Vernon Kay and teased a new TV role.

Last Friday (May 8), Tess and Vernon announced they were splitting up after 23 years of marriage. In a joint statement, they said the decision was ‘amicable’. Since tying the knot, they started a family and share two daughters — Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16.

On Wednesday (May 13), Vernon made his first television appearance by hosting BBC’s The One Show alongside Alex Scott. And now, Tess has been seen for the first time in a fresh new update.

Vernon and Tess announced their split last week (Credit: Splashnews.com)

Tess Daly teases new TV job following Vernon Kay split

In an Instagram upload shared today (May 15), Tess was photographed looking glam in a black suit with matching shoes.

She styled her signature blonde hair down in waves and accessorised with hoop earrings.

In the first slide, the 57-year-old was captured from the thighs up inside what looked to be a trailer. In the following slide, Tess showed off her outfit from head to toe as she gazed to her right.

For the third and final frame, the former Strictly host was snapped sitting down in front of a mirror, reading what looked to be a television script.

Teasing a potential new television job, Tess wrote in her caption: “The glam before the go” with a microphone emoji.

She also credited her glam squad — makeup artist Aimee Adams and hairstylist Maurice Flynn.

‘You look as beautiful as ever!’

Tess’s followers rushed to the comments section to offer their support.

“Stunning as always,” one user wrote.

“You’ll be snapped up! A beauty,” another person shared.

“Looking sensational as always xxxx,” a third remarked.

“You look stunning, simple as that, press the reset button and enjoy yourself,” a fourth said.

Meanwhile, a fifth echoed: “You look as beautiful as ever! I hope you’re holding up ok.”

Read more: Rhian Sugden breaks her silence over Vernon Kay and Tess Daly split announcement following sexting scandal

What do you think of this story? You can leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.

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10 AI Trading Bots for Crypto and Web3 Investors in 2026

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May 15, 2026

10 AI Trading Bots for Crypto and Web3 Investors in 2026

Introduction

Crypto and Web3 investing has changed. A few years ago, many investors were mainly focused on buying Bitcoin, Ethereum, or a small number of major tokens and holding through market cycles. In 2026, the market is much more fragmented.

Investors now track Bitcoin ETF flows, Layer 2 ecosystems, DeFi protocols, AI tokens, gaming assets, real-world asset projects, stablecoin liquidity, exchange listings, token unlocks, and social momentum. A single piece of news can move one sector sharply while the rest of the market stays flat.

This creates a clear problem for crypto and Web3 investors: opportunity is everywhere, but attention is limited.

AI trading bots are becoming useful because they help investors turn a fast, noisy market into a more structured process. Instead of watching charts all day, traders can use bots to monitor price movement, follow signals, execute rules, rebalance portfolios, and react to market conditions more efficiently.

That is why automated crypto trading is becoming more relevant in 2026. The goal is not only faster execution. It is better market coverage, clearer strategy discipline, and a more systematic way to participate in digital asset markets.

The wider market trend supports this shift. The algorithmic trading market is estimated at USD 20.23 billion in 2026 and projected to reach USD 29.54 billion by 2031. The global AI trading platform market was estimated at USD 11.23 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 33.45 billion by 2030.

For crypto and Web3 investors, the direction is clear: trading is becoming more data-driven, more automated, and more system-based.

This guide covers 10 AI trading bots and automation platforms relevant for crypto traders, Web3 investors, and users who want smarter market participation in 2026.

Quick Comparison: AI Trading Bots for Crypto and Web3 Investors

PlatformMain Use CaseSuitable ForMoneyFlareAI-powered crypto trading automationUsers seeking simplified AI trading workflowsPionexBuilt-in crypto trading botsBeginners and grid bot users3CommasAdvanced crypto bot controlActive traders using multiple exchangesCryptohopperCloud-based crypto automationStrategy testing and signal tradingCoinruleNo-code crypto trading rulesBeginners and rule-based tradersBitsgapGrid, DCA, and multi-exchange toolsMulti-exchange crypto tradersWunderTradingTradingView automation and copy tradingSignal-based tradersTradeSantaSimple crypto bot automationUsers who want easy DCA and grid botsShrimpyPortfolio automation and rebalancingLong-term crypto investorsHaasOnlineAdvanced crypto bot scriptingTechnical and experienced traders

Why AI Trading Bots Matter for Crypto and Web3 Investors

The crypto market creates a different kind of pressure from traditional markets. It trades 24/7, reacts quickly to narratives, and often moves before many retail investors have time to respond.

A Web3 investor may be tracking multiple areas at once:

Bitcoin and Ethereum price actionDeFi tokensAI and infrastructure coinsLayer 2 ecosystemsGaming and metaverse assetsStablecoin liquidityExchange listingsToken unlocksWhale wallet movementSocial media-driven momentum

This is too much for manual trading alone.

AI trading bots help by creating a repeatable workflow. They can scan markets, follow predefined rules, trigger alerts, execute orders, and manage portfolio adjustments based on selected conditions.

The real value is not just automation. It is structure.

A good AI trading bot helps investors move from emotional reaction to planned execution. That matters in crypto because fast decisions are often where mistakes happen.

1. MoneyFlare

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MoneyFlare is positioned for users who want a simpler way to access AI-powered crypto trading automation. Its appeal comes from reducing the technical friction that often prevents new users from trying automated trading.

For crypto and Web3 investors, MoneyFlare fits a clear need: turning trading into a more structured and manageable process. Instead of relying only on manual entries, emotional reactions, or social media-driven decisions, users can explore AI-assisted workflows that support market monitoring, strategy execution, and automated trading decisions.

MoneyFlare is especially relevant for users who want exposure to AI trading bots but do not want to build complex scripts or manually manage every technical setting. It can appeal to beginners, semi-passive investors, and traders who want automation to make crypto trading less time-consuming.

Why it stands out: MoneyFlare focuses on simplified AI-powered trading automation, making it suitable for users who want a guided crypto trading workflow.

Ideal for: Crypto investors who want easier access to AI trading automation.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for users who want to approach crypto trading with more structure, automation, and less manual market monitoring.

2. Pionex

Pionex is one of the most accessible crypto trading bot platforms because its bots are built directly into the exchange. Users can access tools such as grid bots, DCA bots, rebalancing bots, and other automated trading features without connecting third-party software.

For crypto beginners, this makes Pionex easy to understand. The platform is especially useful for traders who want to test automated strategies on major crypto pairs without managing complicated API connections.

Pionex is widely used by traders who prefer simple automation around volatility. Grid trading and DCA strategies are especially relevant in crypto because prices often move in cycles rather than straight lines.

Why it stands out: Built-in bots make crypto automation easier to access.

Ideal for: Beginners who want exchange-based crypto bot trading.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for users who want to automate crypto accumulation or range-based trading strategies.

3. 3Commas

3Commas is designed for traders who want more control over crypto automation. It supports DCA bots, grid bots, SmartTrade tools, TradingView signal automation, and connections to multiple exchanges.

This platform is useful for active crypto traders who already understand market movement and want to automate more detailed strategies. Users can manage entries, exits, take-profit levels, stop-loss settings, and exchange-based execution from one dashboard.

For Web3 investors trading across multiple assets, 3Commas offers flexibility. It is not limited to one simple bot style. It can support short-term trading, portfolio adjustments, and signal-based execution.

Why it stands out: 3Commas gives traders flexible control over crypto bot strategies and exchange connections.

Ideal for: Active crypto traders who want customizable automation.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for investors managing several tokens across different market conditions.

4. Cryptohopper

Cryptohopper is a cloud-based crypto trading bot platform built for automated strategy execution, signal trading, templates, and marketplace tools. Since it runs in the cloud, traders do not need to keep their own device online.

This is important in crypto because the market operates all day and all night. A cloud bot can continue monitoring conditions while the user is offline.

Cryptohopper is especially useful for traders who want to test different strategies. It supports technical indicators, automated execution, paper trading, and signal-based automation. This makes it more flexible than basic exchange bots.

Why it stands out: Cryptohopper combines cloud-based automation with strategy templates and signal trading.

Ideal for: Crypto traders who want to test multiple automated strategies.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for users following fast-moving crypto narratives and rotating between token opportunities.

5. Coinrule

Coinrule is a no-code crypto trading bot platform. It allows users to build automated rules without programming. A trader can create logic based on price movement, indicators, or market conditions using a simple rule builder.

This makes Coinrule a strong fit for users who understand what they want a strategy to do but do not want to write code. It is especially useful for beginners who want to turn trading ideas into automated actions.

For Web3 investors, Coinrule can be useful when managing volatile tokens. Instead of reacting manually to every price movement, users can define clear conditions for buying, selling, or adjusting exposure.

Why it stands out: Coinrule makes crypto trading automation easier through no-code strategy rules.

Ideal for: Beginners and non-technical traders.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for investors who want simple rules around volatile crypto assets.

6. Bitsgap

Bitsgap is a crypto trading automation platform that supports grid bots, DCA bots, portfolio tools, and multi-exchange trading. It is useful for users who trade across several exchanges and want a single platform to manage automation.

Its main strength is practical crypto trading infrastructure. Traders can connect exchanges, run bots, monitor positions, and compare performance in one place.

For Web3 investors who hold or trade different tokens across multiple platforms, Bitsgap can reduce friction. It is especially relevant for users who want grid and DCA automation but need broader exchange support than a single exchange platform provides.

Why it stands out: Bitsgap combines multi-exchange trading with practical bot automation.

Ideal for: Crypto traders using several exchanges.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for investors managing diversified crypto exposure across platforms.

7. WunderTrading

WunderTrading focuses on crypto automation through TradingView signals, copy trading, and bot execution. It is useful for traders who already use TradingView for analysis and want to automate signals instead of placing orders manually.

This makes it especially relevant for signal-based traders. A user can build or follow a TradingView strategy, connect it to WunderTrading, and automate execution through supported exchanges.

For Web3 investors who track technical setups, this creates a smoother workflow. TradingView can act as the analysis layer, while WunderTrading handles execution.

Why it stands out: WunderTrading connects TradingView-based strategies with crypto bot execution.

Ideal for: Signal-based crypto traders.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for investors who rely on chart signals and want faster execution.

8. TradeSanta

TradeSanta is a crypto trading bot platform focused on simple grid and DCA automation. It is designed to be easy to use, making it suitable for traders who want automation without a complex setup.

Its main advantage is simplicity. Users can create automated strategies, connect exchanges, and manage bots through a clean interface.

TradeSanta is especially suitable for crypto users who want to automate basic strategies rather than build advanced trading systems. For many beginners, that is exactly what makes it useful.

Why it stands out: TradeSanta keeps crypto bot automation simple and accessible.

Ideal for: Users who want easy grid and DCA bots.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for investors who want straightforward automation for active crypto pairs.

9. Shrimpy

Shrimpy is different from short-term trading bots because it focuses more on crypto portfolio automation. It helps users manage allocation, rebalancing, indexing-style strategies, and long-term portfolio structure.

This is useful for Web3 investors who are not trying to day trade every move. Some users want exposure to several crypto sectors, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, DeFi, AI tokens, gaming, infrastructure, or Layer 2 assets. Shrimpy supports a more portfolio-focused approach.

Instead of chasing every candle, users can automate portfolio balance and maintain a clearer asset allocation strategy.

Why it stands out: Shrimpy focuses on portfolio automation rather than only trade execution.

Ideal for: Long-term crypto investors.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for users building diversified Web3 portfolios.

10. HaasOnline

HaasOnline is one of the more advanced crypto trading bot platforms. It supports custom bots, technical indicators, scripting, backtesting, and advanced strategy design.

This platform is better suited for experienced traders who want deep control over automation. It is not the easiest starting point, but it gives technical users more flexibility than simple no-code tools.

For Web3 investors who already understand trading systems, HaasOnline can be useful for building and testing more advanced crypto strategies.

Why it stands out: HaasOnline offers advanced crypto bot customization and strategy development.

Ideal for: Technical crypto traders.

Web3 investor angle: Useful for experienced investors building custom automation systems.

AI Trading Bots vs Manual Crypto Trading

Manual crypto trading is slow when the market is moving fast. A trader needs to watch charts, read news, compare assets, manage risk, and place orders at the right moment. That is possible for one or two assets. It becomes much harder across a full Web3 portfolio.

AI trading bots change the workflow.

They help traders move from reaction to structure. Instead of asking, “Should I buy now?” every time the market moves, users can build systems around conditions, signals, allocation, and execution.

This does not remove the need for judgment. It changes where judgment is used. The trader focuses on choosing the market, strategy, and risk level. The bot handles monitoring and execution.

That is the real value of AI trading bots for crypto and Web3 investors in 2026.

Which AI Trading Bot Fits Each Type of Crypto Investor?

For beginners

MoneyFlare, Pionex, Coinrule, and TradeSanta are easier starting points because they focus on simple bot setup, clear automation types, and beginner-friendly workflows.

For simplified AI trading automation

MoneyFlare is the stronger fit for users who want a guided AI trading workflow rather than basic manual crypto trading or complex bot scripting.

For active crypto traders

3Commas, Cryptohopper, Bitsgap, and WunderTrading are more suitable for traders who want exchange integrations, TradingView signals, and more control over execution.

For long-term Web3 investors

Shrimpy is more suitable for portfolio automation, rebalancing, and diversified crypto allocation.

For advanced strategy builders

HaasOnline is better for users who want custom bots, scripting, technical indicators, and deeper control over strategy logic.

What Makes an AI Trading Bot Useful for Web3 Investors?

A useful AI trading bot should help Web3 investors do more than place automatic orders. It should improve the full trading process.

The strongest platforms usually support:

24/7 crypto market monitoringAutomated entries and exitsGrid, DCA, or signal-based strategiesExchange integrationPortfolio trackingBacktesting or strategy testingRisk controlsClear performance dataA workflow that matches the user’s trading style

The big choice depends on the investor’s goal. A short-term trader needs fast signals and execution. A long-term investor needs allocation and rebalancing. A beginner needs simplicity. An experienced trader needs customization.

Why 2026 Is a Turning Point for AI Crypto Trading

The crypto market is becoming more institutional, more data-driven, and more automated. Bitcoin ETF activity has brought more traditional capital into digital assets, while stablecoins, Layer 2 networks, DeFi, tokenized assets, and AI-related crypto sectors are making the market more complex.

This complexity creates more opportunity, but it also creates more noise. Traders who rely only on manual monitoring can miss important moves or react too late. Automated tools help investors turn market complexity into a clearer operating system.

At the same time, AI is becoming embedded across financial technology. The growth of algorithmic trading and AI trading platforms shows that automation is no longer limited to hedge funds or professional trading desks. More retail traders and Web3 investors are now using similar workflows in a simpler, more accessible format.

For Web3 investors, this creates a clear opportunity. The next stage of crypto investing will not only be about finding tokens early. It will also be about using better tools to manage timing, execution, allocation, and market reaction.

AI trading bots sit directly at that intersection.

Final Thoughts

AI trading bots are becoming essential tools for crypto and Web3 investors who want faster execution, stronger structure, and better market coverage.

MoneyFlare is relevant for users who want simplified AI-powered crypto trading automation. Pionex, Coinrule, and TradeSanta are useful for beginners. 3Commas, Cryptohopper, Bitsgap, and WunderTrading fit active traders who need more control. Shrimpy supports long-term portfolio automation. HaasOnline serves advanced users who want custom crypto bot development.

The strongest reason to use an AI trading bot in 2026 is not convenience alone. It is the ability to trade with a clearer system in a market that moves every hour of the day.

For crypto and Web3 investors, automation is no longer just an optional tool. It is becoming part of how serious digital asset investors compete.

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Forza Horizon 6 explodes on Steam even before it’s officially out

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May 15, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 explodes on Steam even before it’s officially out

Steam is abuzz this week with a couple of long-anticipated launches, but in Forza Horizon 6’s case, at least, the game isn’t even out for what will be most of its players. The anticipated sequel in the open-world driving game series doesn’t officially launch until May 19, but owners of its most expensive version – the Premium Edition – can play it right now.

That version of the game includes more than just a few days of early access, of course, but you’d think the $120 price tag would’ve only been palatable to a small group of players. Not the case with this game.

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Forza Horizon 6, which has spent 16 weeks in Steam’s global top sellers list, currently occupies the number two spot, having jumped up three spots this week in anticipation of the launch. The game has also naturally been popular with players, so popular in fact that it has already overtaken the player counts of all other Horizon games on the platform.

At the time of writing, the game has peaked at 128,157 concurrent players on Steam alone (via SteamDB). The figure has already climbed several times during the writing of this story, so you can only imagine how much higher it’s going to get deeper into the weekend.

All of that, of course, days before the official launch on Tuesday, when, theoretically, the majority of the game’s audience will be able to start playing. In just a few short hours, Horizon 6 has already gone well above Forza Horizon 5’s peak concurrent of 81,096, as well as Forza Horizon 4’s peak 75,689 players.

Image credit: Playground Games, Xbox Game Studios

Steam is the only platform that publishes player numbers, of course, but it’s easy to see how similar the enthusiasm is going to be on Xbox. Though the game is not yet part of the Game Pass line-up, those who don’t want to wait could buy the Premium Edition Upgrade to get the included content, and play it right now.

Game Pass, and Xbox / Windows Store numbers don’t factor into Steam’s, which is another thing to consider when viewing the numbers holistically. Indeed, given how successful Forza Horizon 5 has been on PlayStation 5, Horizon 6’s upcoming release on Sony’s console is bound to be even bigger.

Forza Horizon 5 has been off to a similarly flying start in the first few days of its own advanced access launch, so it’s obviously not surprising to see Horizon 6 do better there. In case you missed it, check out our review of Forza Horizon 6. In short, we really liked it, even if we expected more.

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Introduction

Quick Comparison: AI Trading Bots for Crypto and Web3 Investors

Why AI Trading Bots Matter for Crypto and Web3 Investors

1. MoneyFlare

2. Pionex

3. 3Commas

4. Cryptohopper

5. Coinrule

6. Bitsgap

7. WunderTrading

8. TradeSanta

9. Shrimpy

10. HaasOnline

AI Trading Bots vs Manual Crypto Trading

Which AI Trading Bot Fits Each Type of Crypto Investor?

For beginners

For simplified AI trading automation

For active crypto traders

For long-term Web3 investors

For advanced strategy builders

What Makes an AI Trading Bot Useful for Web3 Investors?

Why 2026 Is a Turning Point for AI Crypto Trading

Final Thoughts

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