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Deutsche Börse Takes 1.5% Stake in Kraken Through $200M Deal

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Deutsche Börse Takes 1.5% Stake in Kraken Through 0M Deal


Key Highlights

Deutsche Börse AG acquired a 1.5% stake in Payward Inc. through a $200M investment.

The deal values Kraken at around $13.3B, down from its previous $20B valuation.

The partnership aims to build a hybrid financial system combining traditional and tokenized assets.

Germany’s largest stock exchange operator, Deutsche Börse AG, has invested $200 million in Payward Inc., the parent company of crypto exchange Kraken, acquiring a 1.5% fully diluted stake that values the exchange at roughly $13.3 billion.

As reported by Bloomberg, the valuation marks a roughly 33% markdown from the $20 billion Kraken commanded in its November 2024 funding round, reflecting broader pressure on crypto-exchange valuations since bitcoin’s October 2025 peak. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval.

Strengthening traditional finance and crypto integration

The deal deepens a commercial partnership first announced in December 2025 and fits a growing pattern of legacy exchange operators taking equity positions in crypto platforms. In early 2026, Intercontinental Exchange Inc. (ICE) — owner of the New York Stock Exchange — made a similarly sized $200 million investment in crypto exchange OKX.

Thomas Book, a member of Deutsche Börse’s management board, described Kraken as a central partner in building what he called a “fully hybrid market infrastructure” that combines traditional and tokenized assets within a single integrated system.

“Irrespective of what is now the form of an asset — whether it’s tokenized or fully digital — we want to create one integrated value chain,” Book said.

Kraken eyes public listing

Kraken, one of the longest-standing crypto exchanges, has been actively expanding its institutional footprint. The company filed confidentially for a U.S. IPO in November and raised $800 million in the same month, at a $20 billion valuation.

It has also made regulatory strides, becoming the first crypto firm to gain access to the Federal Reserve’s core payments system in March. In Europe, Kraken launched MiFID-regulated crypto derivatives last year, signaling its intent to operate within established financial frameworks.

Expanding blockchain-based infrastructure

Deutsche Börse has been quietly building out its own blockchain stack. Its Clearstream post-trade unit launched a platform for trading tokenized securities in November 2025, followed a month later by the integration of Kraken into 360T, Deutsche Börse’s FX trading platform.

The $200 million investment cements what had been a commercial partnership into a capital relationship, giving Deutsche Börse both equity exposure and a deeper operational tie to one of the most established names in crypto.

Market headwinds and security concerns

The investment comes against a difficult market backdrop. Bitcoin is trading roughly 40% below its October 2025 peak, and exchange revenues across the sector have contracted alongside falling trading volumes. Rival exchange Gemini has reportedly approached investors for fresh capital after scaling back operations, according to industry reports.

Security risks also remain front and center. Kraken recently disclosed an attempted extortion attack by a criminal group that claimed to have obtained certain client account data. The exchange said no customer funds were compromised and declined to pay the ransom.

What to watch next

The deal is another data point in a rapidly shortening list of distinctions between traditional finance and crypto — a trend accelerated by the European Union’s MiCA framework and growing regulatory clarity in the United States. For Kraken, the Deutsche Börse investment delivers both capital and legitimacy ahead of its anticipated public listing. For Deutsche Börse, it secures a foothold in a market segment that several of its European peers have been slower to embrace.

Key milestones now include regulatory approval of the stake, expected in the second quarter of 2026; further disclosures on Kraken’s IPO timeline; and whether other European exchange operators — notably Euronext and the London Stock Exchange Group — respond with their own crypto-infrastructure investments.

Also Read: Aave DAO Passes $25M Funding Deal for Aave Labs With 75% Support


Disclaimer: The information researched and reported by The Crypto Times is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional financial advice. Investing in crypto assets involves significant risk due to market volatility. Always Do Your Own Research (DYOR) and consult with a qualified Financial Advisor before making any investment decisions.







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Animal Crossing: New Horizons gets a new item to celebrate 25 years of the series

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Animal Crossing: New Horizons gets a new item to celebrate 25 years of the series


Animal Crossing: New Horizons has received a surprise patch today to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the life sim series. The update, version 3.0.2, is available across the Switch and Switch 2 versions of the game.

The patch brings a single new addition to New Horizons – a leaf item. Everyone gets it, too, so you don’t have to do anything special to acquire it.

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After installing the patch, simply head to your in-house mailbox to claim it. The mail includes a hearty message to fans who supported the series for years, featuring an appropriate Nintendo N64 stamp.

The Leaf Statue, as it’s referred to in-game, lights up when placed.

Image credit: Nintendo

April 14, 2011 marks the release of the original, lesser-known version of Animal Crossing in Japan. The game was initially released as Animal Forest (Dobutsu no Mori) on the Nintendo N64, before later making its way to the Nintendo GameCube in December of the same year as Dobutsu no Mori+ with some extra features.

That same, original design of the package is also available for display in your game. The rest of the patch notes are entirely about various bug fixes, so not much more there. You can see the full change log on Nintendo’s support website.



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Saylor & Bitmine Buy Bitcoin, Ethereum Before $530M Liquidation – NFT Plazas

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    Saylor & Bitmine Buy Bitcoin, Ethereum Before 0M Liquidation – NFT Plazas


    Amidst naval blockades and tense diplomacy in the Middle East, the crypto market showed a clear split between big buyers and small sellers last week. While global energy markets worried about the failed peace talks in Islamabad, a major shift occurred as Saylor & Bitmine buy Bitcoin and Ethereum in record numbers.

    These large firms bought nearly $1.2 billion in crypto assets, even as Bitcoin miners and short-sellers rushed to close their positions during a messy $530 million liquidation event. The market’s period of intense volatility has highlighted a growing trend where institutional giants treat digital assets as a primary treasury reserve, regardless of the immediate geopolitical risks unfolding in the Strait of Hormuz.

    Learn more: What Is Bitcoin Backed By? The Truth About BTC’s Value

    Michael Saylor Buys $1B Bitcoin

    Despite sitting on unrealized losses totaling $14.46 billion in the first quarter of 2026, Strategy refused to blink in the face of macroeconomic uncertainty. Between April 6 and April 12, the firm scooped up 13,927 Bitcoin at an average price of $71,902 per coin. By funding this acquisition through the sale of 10 million Stretch (STRC) perpetual preferred equity shares, the company showed how it uses the stock market to bolster a digital balance sheet.

    Michael Saylor Buys $1B Bitcoin

    Michael Saylor Buys $1B Bitcoin

    As of now, Strategy holds an astonishing 780,897 BTC, leaving the firm just 19,103 coins shy of its much-anticipated 800,000 BTC target. Across the industry, analysts view Saylor’s persistence as a signal of ultimate conviction. Historically, whenever the Chairman teases a purchase on social media, the market anticipates a renewed floor for Bitcoin’s price.

    During this latest window, Strategy notably acquired its coins below its overall average cost basis of $75,577, effectively “averaging down” while the rest of the world watched the Strait of Hormuz with bated breath. The giant’s aggressive strategy contrasts sharply with other public companies; for instance, Japan’s Metaplanet added 5,075 BTC during the same period, while most other treasury holders remained stagnant or sold off assets.

    Bitmine Pushes for Ethereum Dominance

    Equally active in its expansion, Bitmine Immersion Technologies reported a massive intake of 71,524 ETH (worth about $170 million) over the past seven days.

    Now commanding approximately 4.04% of the total ETH supply, which is currently worth over $10 billion, the company is rapidly approaching its stated goal of owning 5% of all tokens in circulation. Unlike its peers who remain sidelined due to price volatility, Bitmine leveraged its recent uplisting to the New York Stock Exchange to secure institutional capital for this expansion.

    Bitmine Pushes for Ethereum DominanceBitmine Pushes for Ethereum Dominance

    Bitmine Pushes for Ethereum Dominance

    Through its in-house MAVAN platform, Bitmine currently stakes approximately 3.33 million ETH. Based on current network yields, these staked assets generate roughly $310 million in annual rewards. Chairman Tom Lee attributed this aggressive stance to the rising demand for tokenization on Wall Street and the increasing reliance of AI systems on public blockchain infrastructure.

    While Bitmine and Strategy led the buying charge, Bitcoin miners like MARA Holdings and Riot Platforms, on the other hand, took the opposite route, offloading over 17,000 BTC combined to navigate the shifting economic tides.

    Learn more: How Many Cryptocurrencies Are There? The Complete Guide

    Geopolitics Triggers $530M Short Squeeze

    Geopolitics acted as the primary catalyst for market turbulence throughout the week. Early Monday, President Donald Trump’s administration initiated a naval blockade of Iranian ports, a move designed to force Tehran back to the negotiating table. As a result, Bitcoin surged toward a four-week high of $75,000 as traders bet on a frantic diplomatic resolution from an embattled Iranian leadership.

    Because so many traders had positioned themselves for a market crash following the Islamabad stalemate, this sudden price rally triggered a violent short squeeze. According to CoinGlass data, the market liquidated 177,000 traders for a total of $530 million within 24 hours.

    Geopolitics Triggers $530M Short SqueezeGeopolitics Triggers $530M Short Squeeze

    Geopolitics Triggers $530M Short Squeeze

    Remarkably, leveraged short positions in Bitcoin and Ether accounted for 80% of these losses. In the heat of the rally, “Bull Theory,” a prominent analyst on X, noted that these liquidations added more than $100 billion to the total crypto market capitalization in just a few hours.

    Moreover, according to Valerius Labs, this move is not a true breakout but rather a forced rally driven by short-sellers hitting a wall of supply. For the experts at the lab, serious buyers typically only enter the market when the price holds above the 200-day moving average, rather than sitting 15% below it as it does now.

    Even so, investors view crypto as a high-beta play on geopolitical stability. When news of a potential ceasefire surfaced earlier in the week, Bitcoin reclaimed $70,000 almost instantly. Jeff Mei, COO at BTSE, suggested that Iran’s economic dependence on oil exports makes a deal inevitable, even if the current rhetoric remains hostile.





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    Why Is Bitcoin Up Today? Bitcoin Shrugs off Strait of Hormuz Blockade to Hit $74,900 Intraday High – NFT Plazas

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    Why Is Bitcoin Up Today? Bitcoin Shrugs off Strait of Hormuz Blockade to Hit ,900 Intraday High – NFT Plazas


    Bitcoin surged back toward $74,900 intraday on April 14, reversing a sharp weekend sell-off and catching many traders off guard. Just hours earlier, the market had been bracing for a deeper breakdown after escalating tensions in the Middle East, specifically the U.S.-led blockade targeting Iranian-linked activity in the Strait of Hormuz.

    Instead, Bitcoin did the opposite.

    After dipping to a low of $70,741, BTC staged a fast, high-conviction rebound, climbing more than $4,000 in a matter of hours and stabilizing in the $74,200–$74,700 range. The move was not driven by speculation or narrative alone. It was the result of a clear shift in macro conditions, combined with positioning dynamics that forced a rapid repricing across markets.

    At the center of the move are three concrete factors: oil prices pulling back below $100, the blockade proving less disruptive than initially feared, and the market having already priced in downside risk. Together, they created the conditions for a sharp rebound – one that was then amplified by a short squeeze.

    A fast macro repricing, not a random rally

    To understand why Bitcoin is up today, it’s important to look at how quickly the narrative changed.

    Over the weekend, markets reacted negatively after U.S.–Iran ceasefire talks failed. Bitcoin fell from around $73,000 to near $70,500, while risk sentiment deteriorated broadly. When news broke that the U.S. would enforce a blockade tied to Iranian shipping routes, initial reactions pointed toward a worst-case scenario: a disruption of one of the world’s most critical oil corridors.

    The Strait of Hormuz is not just another geopolitical hotspot – it is a chokepoint for global energy flows. Any sustained disruption there would likely push oil prices higher, reignite inflation concerns, and delay expectations for monetary easing. That combination is typically negative for risk assets, including crypto.

    And initially, that’s exactly how markets reacted.

    Oil surged above $100 per barrel, equities weakened, and Bitcoin extended its decline toward key support near $70,000.

    But that scenario did not hold.

    Within the next trading session, oil prices reversed sharply. U.S. crude futures dropped to around $96.5 per barrel, while Brent crude fell to approximately $96.9. That move – oil decisively back below $100 – became the turning point.

    It signaled that the market’s initial assumption of a major supply shock was likely overstated.

    BTC/USD 4H price chart (updated on 14/4/206) (Source: TradingView)

    BTC/USD 4H price chart (updated on 14/4/206) (Source: TradingView)

    Oil drops, and with it, the biggest risk to Bitcoin

    The decline in oil prices is arguably the single most important reason Bitcoin is higher today.

    When crude fails to sustain levels above $100, it reduces the probability of a renewed inflation spike. That, in turn, eases pressure on central banks, particularly the Federal Reserve, to maintain restrictive policy for longer.

    For Bitcoin, which has traded increasingly as a macro-sensitive asset, this matters directly.

    Lower oil prices → lower inflation expectations → more favorable liquidity outlook → support for risk assets.

    In practical terms, the market moved from pricing in an inflation shock to pricing in a more contained geopolitical event. That shift unlocked risk appetite almost immediately.

    Bitcoin’s rebound tracked that change closely.

    Oil price chart on 14/4/2026 (Source: TradingEconomics)Oil price chart on 14/4/2026 (Source: TradingEconomics)

    Oil price chart on 14/4/2026 (Source: TradingEconomics)

    The blockade was real, but narrower than feared

    The second key driver is the difference between headline risk and actual implementation.

    Initial reactions to the blockade assumed a broad disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Given that the route handles a significant share of global oil supply, even a partial closure could have had major consequences.

    However, details that emerged shortly after told a more nuanced story.

    The blockade focused primarily on Iran-linked vessels and ports, rather than a blanket shutdown of all maritime traffic. Importantly, shipping not directly tied to Iran was not broadly restricted, and reports indicated that at least some tankers were still able to pass through the region without incident.

    This distinction mattered more than the headline itself.

    Markets that had quickly priced in a worst-case supply disruption were forced to adjust. Oil reversed lower, equities stabilized, and crypto followed.

    Bitcoin’s rally, in this context, is less about ignoring geopolitical tension and more about repricing it accurately.

    The market had already done the selling

    Another reason the rebound was so sharp is that much of the downside had already played out.

    By the time the blockade was formally announced:

    Bitcoin had already dropped toward $70,000Sentiment had turned cautiousShort positioning had increased significantly

    In other words, the market was leaning bearish.

    This created an asymmetrical setup. When new information suggested that the situation was less severe than feared, there was limited additional downside to price in, but significant room for a reversal.

    That reversal came quickly.

    Bitcoin bounced from $70,741 to above $74,900, reclaiming key levels and pushing back toward the top of its multi-week range.

    The Crypto Fear & Greed Index rose sharply to 55, returning to neutral territory. (Source: CoinMarketCap)The Crypto Fear & Greed Index rose sharply to 55, returning to neutral territory. (Source: CoinMarketCap)

    The Crypto Fear & Greed Index rose sharply to 55, returning to neutral territory. (Source: CoinMarketCap)

    Short squeeze turns recovery into breakout attempt

    The speed of the move cannot be explained by spot demand alone. Derivatives markets played a central role.

    In the days leading up to the rebound:

    Funding rates had turned negativeShort positions had become crowded

    As Bitcoin reclaimed the $72,000–$73,000 zone, liquidation pressure began to build. Short sellers were forced to close positions, effectively buying back into the market and pushing prices higher.

    This created a feedback loop:

    Price risesShorts get liquidatedLiquidations push price higherMomentum traders follow

    Within hours, millions of dollars in short positions were wiped out, accelerating the move toward $75,000.

    This is why the rally appears sharp and vertical rather than gradual—it was driven as much by positioning as by fundamentals.

    Back at resistance: $75,000 becomes the key level again

    Bitcoin is now trading at a technically important level.

    For nearly two months, BTC has moved within a $65,000 to $75,000 range, repeatedly failing to sustain a breakout above the upper boundary. Today’s rally brings price back to that exact zone.

    Key levels now are clearly defined:

    Resistance: $73,000 – $75,000Support: $70,000 – $72,000

    On shorter timeframes, structure has improved:

    Higher lows are formingMomentum remains strong from the $71K → $74.5K moveVolume increased during the rebound

    However, the $74K–$75K region remains sensitive, with early signs of profit-taking emerging.

    A confirmed breakout above $75,000 would likely open the path toward $78,000–$80,000, especially if supported by continued short covering. On the other hand, failure to break could see Bitcoin return to consolidation within its established range.

    Broader market strength supports the move

    Bitcoin’s rebound is not happening in isolation.

    Across the crypto market:

    Total market capitalization has climbed to around $2.52 trillionEthereum has risen above $2,300, gaining over 7%Solana, XRP, and BNB have all posted solid gains

    This broad-based recovery suggests a return of risk appetite, not just a Bitcoin-specific event.

    The move also aligns with stabilization in traditional markets, reinforcing the idea that this is a macro-driven shift rather than a standalone crypto narrative.

    24-hour performance of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization (Source: CoinMarketCap)24-hour performance of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization (Source: CoinMarketCap)

    24-hour performance of the top 10 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization (Source: CoinMarketCap)

    Structural demand remains in place

    While the immediate catalyst for the rally was macro repricing, underlying demand continues to support Bitcoin.

    Recent flows show:

    Around $615 million in spot ETF inflows over the weekendContinued accumulation by large holdersStrong defense of the $68,000–$70,000 support zone

    Notably, Strategy added 13,927 BTC in a single week, highlighting ongoing institutional interest.

    This structural demand helps explain why Bitcoin did not break down further during the initial sell-off, and why it was able to rebound quickly once macro pressure eased.

    Strategy bought 13,927 bitcoin for $1 billionStrategy bought 13,927 bitcoin for $1 billion

    Strategy bought 13,927 bitcoin for $1 billion

    A clear answer to why Bitcoin is up today

    Bitcoin is rising today for specific, measurable reasons – not speculation.

    Oil dropped below $100, removing the biggest immediate macro riskThe blockade proved narrower than expected, avoiding a full supply shockMarkets had already priced in downside, setting up a reversalShort liquidations amplified the move, accelerating price higher

    The result is a clean, data-driven rally back toward the top of Bitcoin’s range.

    In the current environment, markets are not reacting to headlines alone – they are reacting to how reality compares to expectations. In this case, the outcome was less severe than feared.

    That difference was enough to turn a risk-off sell-off into a sharp recovery, pushing Bitcoin back toward $75,000 and putting the next move squarely in focus.



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    Iran War Fallout to Dominate 2026, Slowing Crypto Market Recovery

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    Iran War Fallout to Dominate 2026, Slowing Crypto Market Recovery


    The cryptocurrency market is facing renewed pressure in 2026 as war tensions involving Iran show no signs of easing, triggering energy shocks and shifting global monetary policy expectations. Brent crude prices surged from around $70 to over $110 per barrel in March before easing to the $95–$100 range, while the market has now largely priced out expectations for Fed rate cuts in the near future. Consequently, capital flows into risk assets, such as cryptocurrencies, have been significantly impacted, slowing the market recovery that was previously anticipated.

    Iran war impact spilling into global markets

    The impact of these conflicts is felt not only in Middle Eastern markets but is also rippling through global markets and reflecting clearly across financial sectors. Oil prices serve as the most evident signal. From the $60-$70 range at the start of the year, Brent rose steadily, surpassing $110 per barrel in March before adjusting to around $97 at present.

    Brent Oil Price Chart (1D)

    Brent Oil Price Chart (1D). Source: TradingView

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also warned that the conflict in the Middle East is spreading its impact globally through energy prices, supply chains, and financial conditions. According to the IMF, approximately 25–30% of global oil supply and 20% of global LNG pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making this shock a potential catalyst for higher inflation and slower growth. 

    Meanwhile, the US Dollar has recorded a similar market reaction. The DXY index climbed above the 100 mark in March before slightly retreating to around 98–99, indicating a trend of capital returning to safe-haven assets—a common occurrence during periods of economic instability.

    The crypto market is not exempt from this influence. Bitcoin fell sharply from its previous peak of nearly $98,000 and is currently fluctuating between $60,000–$75,000, reflecting pressure from the changing macroeconomic environment.

    From energy crisis to liquidity squeeze

    The conflict’s impact on crypto does not occur directly but rather through macroeconomic factors, specifically inflation and monetary policy.

    As oil prices rise, energy and transportation costs follow suit, putting pressure on global inflation. In a context where inflation is not yet fully under control, this shock forces central banks to be more cautious regarding policy easing.

    This is clearly reflected in market expectations. According to data from CME FedWatch, the probability of the Fed holding interest rates steady at the late April meeting stands at 99.5%, while there are virtually no expectations for a rate cut in Q2.

    Fed rate expectationsFed rate expectations

    Fed rate expectations. Source: CME FedWatch

    Delaying rate cuts means global liquidity will continue to be squeezed longer than expected. This is a critical factor for crypto, as capital flows into risk assets typically increase when interest rates are low and contract when rates remain high.

    In previous phases, expectations that the Fed would soon cut rates were a primary driver supporting the market’s upward momentum. However, given current developments, investors are recalibrating their positions and becoming more cautious with risk assets.

    Crypto reacts: volatility without direction

    BTC price chart (1D)BTC price chart (1D)

    BTC price chart (1D). Source: TradingView

    Bitcoin is currently trading in a wide range from approximately $60,000 to $75,000, following a sharp correction of nearly 30% from its previous peak near $98,000. Upswings and downswings occur rapidly but without creating a clear breakout, indicating the market is in a state of accumulation and lacks momentum.

    On the Altcoin side, the pressure is even more pronounced. Many assets have recorded deeper declines than Bitcoin during correction phases, while speculative capital flows have weakened significantly. This reflects a “risk-off” sentiment, as investors limit exposure to high-volatility assets.

    Notably, crypto is increasingly trading in tandem with traditional risk assets. When the USD rises, and rate expectations remain high, capital tends to exit crypto rather than seeking it out as a refuge.

    A delayed recovery, not a derailed cycle

    Despite heavy pressure from macroeconomic factors, current developments do not suggest that the crypto bull cycle has ended. Instead, the market shows signs of entering a more prolonged accumulation phase. The fact that Bitcoin remains above the $60,000 mark indicates that buying support still exists, though it is not yet strong enough to push prices to new highs.

    Compared to previous expectations, the BTC recovery timeline is being extended. Many earlier forecasts expected Bitcoin could soon return to the $90,000 range in 2026; however, this outlook now depends more heavily on macroeconomic shifts.

    A key change in this cycle is that the relationship between crypto and traditional financial markets has tightened more than ever before. The participation of institutional capital makes the crypto market more sensitive to interest rates and liquidity, rather than operating independently as in previous cycles.

    This also means that when macroeconomic conditions improve—such as declining inflation and the Fed beginning to ease—crypto could still recover strongly. However, within the current geopolitical context, that process is likely to occur more slowly than initially hoped.

    What could shift the trajectory?

    The remainder of 2026 will depend on several key factors that could determine the market’s recovery potential. One of the most critical factors is the potential de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

    If tensions cool and oil supply risks subside, energy prices could stabilize, thereby easing inflationary pressure. This would create conditions for central banks to return to a policy-easing roadmap.

    Furthermore, Fed policy will play a decisive role. Any signal suggesting the possibility of an earlier-than-expected rate cut could serve as a catalyst for the crypto market. Conversely, if oil prices remain high and elevated inflation persists, it may force the Fed to delay rate cuts even longer, keeping liquidity restricted.

    Additionally, capital flows from ETFs, the actions of large institutions, or regulatory issues still play an important role. However, these factors are unlikely to reverse the trend while the macroeconomic situation remains unfavorable.

    Conclusion

    Conflicts involving Iran are becoming one of the most significant macroeconomic factors dominating global financial markets in 2026. The oil price shock and inflationary pressure are shifting monetary policy expectations and prolonging the state of tightened liquidity.

    For the crypto market, this does not mean the bull cycle is over, but rather reflects a delay in the recovery process, as capital has yet to return clearly amidst high interest rates.

    Developments in energy prices and monetary policy will continue to be critical variables shaping liquidity and the direction of the crypto market throughout 2026.



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    Crypto News: AlphaPepe Crosses $830k Raised While Bitcoin Price Prediction Hits $50,000 Following Failed Iran Strait Negotiations | Web3Wire

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    Crypto News: AlphaPepe Crosses 0k Raised While Bitcoin Price Prediction Hits ,000 Following Failed Iran Strait Negotiations | Web3Wire


    MONACO, April 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AlphaPepe has crossed $830,000 in presale capital raised and the pace has not slowed despite the most volatile weekend of 2026 so far. Capital continues entering at a rate that draws direct comparisons to the earliest days of meme coins that went on to deliver life-changing returns to early participants. The crypto news around AlphaPepe is building ahead of a planned Q2 2026 exchange listing, stages are finalizing in days, and wallets are committing serious size even as Bitcoin retreats from $73,000 after US-Iran peace talks collapsed in Islamabad and a Bitcoin price prediction warning of $50,000 resurfaces as the geopolitical picture deteriorates rapidly.

    Before getting into what those wallets see and why they are moving now, the Bitcoin price prediction and the failed Iran Strait negotiations explain why the market is entering a phase of extreme uncertainty and why the capital already positioned inside this presale may be the most strategically placed in crypto right now.

    Crypto News: AlphaPepe Crosses $830K While the Bitcoin Price Prediction and Failed Iran Strait Negotiations Point to $50,000

    The timing of AlphaPepe crossing $830,000 could not land in a more volatile crypto news environment. The Bitcoin price prediction has taken a sharp bearish turn after US-Iran negotiations collapsed in Islamabad following a 21-hour marathon session. Vice President JD Vance confirmed that talks ended without agreement after Iran refused several red lines set by the Trump Administration, including terms around the Strait of Hormuz. Bitcoin dropped from above $73,000 to around $71,300 within hours of the announcement as the market priced in the return of the same geopolitical risk that defined February and March.

    President Trump responded by ordering the US Navy to blockade the Strait of Hormuz and interdict any vessel in international waters that had paid a toll to Iran. Oil surged back above $100 a barrel. The two-week ceasefire that had briefly lifted risk appetite now looks fragile, and the window for diplomatic resolution is narrowing with each escalation. The market that rallied 5% on ceasefire optimism is now staring at the possibility that the conflict intensifies beyond anything seen in Q1.

    Standard Chartered’s Geoff Kendrick has warned that Bitcoin could fall to $50,000 before recovering, describing a “final capitulation period” for digital asset prices that would precede a second-half recovery toward $100,000 by year end. That warning, issued in February when the conflict was in its early stages, now looks increasingly prescient as the diplomatic path narrows. Other analysts have projected Bitcoin could slide to $65,000 if the ceasefire fully collapses, with $50,000 representing the worst-case scenario in which the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and the conflict escalates into a prolonged economic disruption.

    The Bitcoin price prediction now spans from $50,000 on the bear side to $150,000 on the bull side depending entirely on whether diplomacy succeeds or fails in the coming days. That level of uncertainty is historically where the most significant divergences occur between large-cap holders who are forced to absorb macro volatility and early-stage participants who are positioned in assets with their own catalysts independent of geopolitics. The wallets entering AlphaPepe’s presale during this exact type of dislocation are following the pattern that has defined every cycle. They are not reacting to headlines. They are positioning ahead of what comes next.

    AlphaPepe Crosses $830K as Capital Positions Through Uncertainty

    AlphaPepe’s AI-powered decentralized exchange is the reason capital continues entering at this pace while Bitcoin holders face the prospect of a $50,000 retest driven by forces entirely outside their control. The meme coin sector sits at $45 billion but traders still rely on fragmented tools that cannot screen for scam contracts, track whale movements, or execute across chains without friction. AlphaSwap is designed to address all three with AI-driven contract screening, real-time whale tracking, and cross-chain execution on BSC with deployment planned for Q2 2026. The project has completed a full 10/10 BlockSAFU security audit verifying the contract before a single public trade takes place.

    Over 7,600 holders have joined so far and AlphaPepe is currently priced at $0.01422 per token. The presale has raised over $830,000 with daily participation holding steady through the ceasefire rally and the subsequent collapse in talks. Token delivery is instant with no vesting and no claim delay. While Bitcoin’s next move depends on whether Trump escalates or diplomats find a resolution in Islamabad, AlphaPepe’s next catalysts are the AI DEX launch and exchange listing, both on a Q2 timeline that is independent of any geopolitical outcome. The wallets that are entering now are not making a bet on peace or war. They are positioning in a project with its own momentum ahead of a milestone that arrives regardless of what happens in the Strait of Hormuz.

    Conclusion

    The crypto news around the failed Iran Strait negotiations, Trump ordering a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and the Bitcoin price prediction warning of $50,000 in a capitulation scenario all highlight why the current environment is separating reactive capital from strategic capital. The wallets entering AlphaPepe’s presale while the market debates whether Bitcoin holds $71,000 or retests $50,000 are following the same pattern that has defined every previous cycle. The participants who positioned during peak uncertainty in assets with independent catalysts captured the most significant returns, and those who froze during macro volatility watched opportunities pass at the exact moment they were cheapest.

    Stages close faster every day while each round that fills pushes the entry cost higher. The AlphaPepe official website is where participants evaluating early-stage crypto opportunities ahead of the Q2 2026 exchange listing are entering right now. The window at current presale pricing is narrowing regardless of what happens next in Iran.

    CLICK TO VISIT ALPHAPEPE OFFICIAL WEBSITE

    FAQs

    Could Bitcoin fall to $50,000 after the failed Iran negotiations?Standard Chartered’s Geoff Kendrick has warned Bitcoin could test $50,000 in a capitulation scenario before recovering to $100,000 by year end. The failed Islamabad talks and Trump’s Strait of Hormuz blockade have raised the probability of further downside if the conflict escalates.

    Why is AlphaPepe still raising capital during geopolitical uncertainty?AlphaPepe is building an AI-powered DEX with contract screening, whale tracking, and cross-chain execution. Its Q2 2026 exchange listing and AI DEX launch are independent of geopolitical outcomes, and the presale has crossed $830,000 with over 7,600 holders maintaining steady participation through the volatility.

    Contact:Jack Duffycontact@alphapepe.io

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by AlphaPepe. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above

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    Aave Passed “Aave Will Win” & Approved $25M Funding Grant – NFT Plazas

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      Aave Passed “Aave Will Win” & Approved M Funding Grant – NFT Plazas


      Recently, the decentralized finance world watched a major turning point as the Aave DAO passed the first binding part of the “Aave Will Win” (AWW) plan. Approved on Sunday, the new framework sends 100% of income from all Aave-branded products directly back to the community treasury, and also authorizes a $25 million stablecoin grant and a 75,000 AAVE token bonus to the development firm Aave Labs.

      After months of loud debates and the exit of several long-time partners, the success of this vote shows a clear yet controversial new path for the world’s largest lending protocol. While the vote represents a big win for founder Stani Kulechov with nearly 75% support (522,780 votes in favor vs. 175,310 against), it also highlights growing concerns about power becoming too centralized within a single entity.

      Learn more: What Is DeFi? A Beginner’s Guide to Decentralized Finance

      How $25 Million Funding Works

      Aave DAO’s approved plan ensures Aave Labs has enough money to build its new products over the next several years. Because the DAO committed 25 million aEthLidoGHO, a yield-bearing stablecoin, the money will move from the DAO’s Collector Contract in strategic stages. As a result, the schedule includes an immediate $5 million payment, followed by another $5 million streamed over six months, and the final $15 million distributed over a full year. Their step-by-step approach helps the DAO keep an eye on how the money is being spent for short-term operations and product development.

      Primarily, the second part of the deal includes 75,000 AAVE tokens, worth roughly $6.8 million at current market prices. Currently, these tokens are set to be given out slowly via a linear stream over 48 months, which is twice as long as the original 24-month plan. By making the waiting period longer, the DAO ensures that Aave Labs stays focused on the protocol’s long-term health and growth. These transfers were scheduled to begin Monday afternoon, officially starting this new financial chapter where the DAO acts as the primary funder for its core developers.

      How $25 Million Funding Works

      How $25 Million Funding Works

      What ‘Aave Will Win’ Framework Means

      The “Aave Will Win” framework represents a total strategic pivot that moves Aave from a fragmented group of contributors toward a unified, “token-centric” model. Historically, different teams handled different parts of the protocol, which sometimes led to disputes over brand ownership and fee redirection. AWW decisively solves those conflicts by placing all economic rights under the AAVE token. Under this setup, Aave Labs commits to working exclusively for the DAO, ensuring that the brand, the users, and the revenue belong solely to the token holders.

      Thus, the framework turns Aave into an integrated financial ecosystem. It focuses on building an “application layer”, products that everyday people can use, on top of the existing lending protocol. After launching tools like the Aave App and Aave Card, the DAO aims to capture the mainstream fintech market while funneling every cent of generated profit back into the community treasury, aiming to scale Aave from a DeFi protocol holding roughly $25 billion in total value locked (TVL) into a global financial network capable of handling $1 trillion in value.

      What 'Aave Will Win' Framework MeansWhat 'Aave Will Win' Framework Means

      Aave is holding $25 billion in TVL. – Source: DeFiLlama

      How The Vote Ends Fights Over Revenue Control

      Surprisingly, the “Aave Will Win” vote ends a long battle about where the protocol’s money actually goes. Late in 2025, many users grew upset when they discovered that fees from “swaps” on the official website flowed away from the community treasury to external recipients. Decisively answering this problem, the new rules send 100% of the money from all Aave-branded products back to the DAO. Currently, the protocol earns about $140 million a year from lending fees, and these new application-layer products could add another $10 to $20 million annually.

      Effectively, this change means that holding AAVE tokens now grants you a share in everything: the brand, the users, and the income. Stani Kulechov made it clear that the days of “value leakage” are over, and service providers must now work only for the benefit of token holders. Furthermore, every future product like the Aave Card or Aave Pro will now feed its fees directly into the community treasury.

      Major Partners Leave the DAO

      Despite the winning numbers, Monday’s vote showed a community that splits down the middle regarding governance standards. While the roughly 75% support marks a substantial improvement from the contested 52.58% support in March, many remains skeptical. Frequently, critics pointed out that big investment firms with top AAVE holding like ParaFi Capital (190,000 AAVE), Areta (75,775 AAVE), Token Logic (73,386 AAVE), and delegate “luggis.eth” (123,580 AAVE) pushed the vote through. Every large “Yes” vote from these firms basically cancelled out the “No” votes from smaller community groups and independent delegates.

      For that reason, the Aave Chan Initiative (ACI) and Chaos Labs both recently announced their exit from the DAO following this shift. ACI founder Marc Zeller cast 166,200 AAVE against the proposal, pointing out that “100% revenue” remains a vague term without independent audits. Also, Chaos Labs, the risk management experts, expressed deep concerns that the current model lacks the safety required for a protocol of this size.

      While “Aave Will Win” passed, the protocol lost many of the expert teams that used to check for risks and technical bugs, raising questions about future safety as technical contributors like BGD Labs also ended their engagement on April 1.

      Major Partners Leave the DAOMajor Partners Leave the DAO

      Major Partners Leave the DAO

      Aave Targets $1 Trillion in Value

      Immediately after the win, Kulechov called this the most important moment in Aave’s history. Under the new plan, Aave Labs wants to make the protocol feel more like a normal finance app, offering a “fintech-style” experience with the Aave App and even $1 million in account protection for users. To do this, the firm seeks legal licenses around the world to make it easier for people to use regular cash alongside crypto. The vote pays for the start of these goals, but the DAO must still vote on future payments as each specific product launches.

      Crucially, the new Aave V4 upgrade also helps generate more money by putting idle capital to work through a new reinvestment feature. Currently holding about $25 billion in deposits, Aave already leads the DeFi market, but Kulechov wants to grow that to a massive $1 trillion. This would turn Aave into a global network that any bank, asset manager, or fintech company can use. Interestingly, while Bitcoin fell to $71,000 following geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, AAVE price jumped over 8% to $97.67 following this news.

      Learn more: How Many Cryptocurrencies Are There? The Complete Guide



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      EastEnders spoilers for next week: Mark calls Grant and Ravi causes chaos

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        EastEnders spoilers for next week: Mark calls Grant and Ravi causes chaos


        Ravi’s spiralling mental health causes Priya to crash her car into Max, Cindy and baby Jimmy in EastEnders spoilers for next week, but will everyone be okay?

        Elsewhere, Nigel’s pneumonia takes a frightening turn, and Mark calls Grant to demand that he return to Walford. But why?

        Read our EastEnders spoilers for next week in full below…

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        Priya gets Ravi to the hospital, but there is drama (Credit: BBC)

        1. Ravi hits rock bottom

        Ravi is struggling with not being able to protect his family. Knowing he is self-harming, Priya takes matters into her own hands and gets him to the hospital. But Ravi isn’t happy, and an incident at the appointment leaves everyone back at square one.

        Nugget and Avani in McKlunky's confronting Will's friend
        Nugget confronts Will’s friends (Credit: BBC)

        2. Ravi tries to protect his family

        At McKlunky’s, Nugget confronts Will and his friends for filming his seizure. The fight doesn’t go Nugget’s way, and he runs off, only for Ravi to hear what happened and try to find his son. When he finally tracks him down, Ravi gets angry about the situation and demands that the entire family return home immediately.

        Ravi keeping Priya, Nugget and Avani at home
        Ravi leaves his family worried next week (Credit: BBC)

        3. EastEnders spoilers: Ravi reevals a shocking

        As he struggles to make sense of reality, Ravi demands that his family stay at home. However, Priya realises that Ravi needs help, and she tries to find a way to escape the flat. Ravi insists they stay put, but there is trouble when Nugget makes a discovery, and all hell breaks loose as a shocking secret is revealed.

        Priya holding Ravi's face as he spirals
        Ravi hits rock bottom (Credit: BBC)

        4. EastEnders spoilers: Priya tries to do damage control

        As Ravi’s revelation leaves the family reeling, Nugget lashes out at his dad. With Ravi distracted, Priya uses the opportunity to escape the flat, but she is caught by Ravi, who is dangerously on edge. Priya tells Ravi they should all leave Walford together… but her aim isn’t to leave Albert Square, it is to get Ravi to a hospital for help, and fast.

        Priya getting into a car with Avani
        Priya is terrified as she loses control of the car (Credit: BBC)

        5. Ravi causes a car crash

        After taking a car from the car lot, she tricks Ravi into getting in, along with Avani and Nugget. As they make their way to the hospital, Ravi works out what is happening and lashes out. At the same time, Nugget has a seizure, causing Priya to take her eyes off the road. She loses control of the car and ploughs into Max, Cindy and baby Jimmy.

        Max looking worried outside the car lot in EastEnders spoilers
        Max and Cindy grow closer next week (Credit: BBC)

        6. Max and Cindy grow closer following their ordeal

        After the crash, Max manages to get Jimmy and Cindy to safety. Relieved that everybody is okay, Max and Cindy share an emotional moment. Max takes Jimmy and Cindy to the hospital to be checked out, and while they are there, he and Cindy grow closer.

        Ravi clutching his head in distress
        Ravi can’t see a way out (Credit: BBC)

        7. Ravi risks his life in EastEnders spoilers

        Ravi fails to see the enormity of what just happened and goes missing in the aftermath of the crash. Priya eventually tracks him down to the bridge. As Priya talks to him, she makes him realise that he needs help, but will she manage to get him down to safety?

        Lexi sitting with Nigel in EastEnders spoilers
        Nigel is in a bad way (Credit: BBC)

        8. Nigel’s health deteriorates

        With Nigel’s pneumonia worsening, his friends and family are worried. Sam tells Phil that Nigel is gravely ill, and Mark is sure they need to call Grant before it is too late.

        Mark on the phone in EastEnders spoilers
        Mark calls his dad, Grant (Credit: BBC)

        9. Mark calls Grant

        Sam tells Mark that Grant has been ignoring her calls and that the Mitchell siblings have drifted apart since Peggy died. But Mark is convinced that Nigel could be the one to bring them back together again. Determined, Mark calls his dad and leaves a voicemail asking him to return to the Square.

        Lauren and Mark talking in the boxing gym in EastEnders spoilers
        Mark does a deal with Lauren (Credit: BBC)

        10. Lauren makes a deal with the devil in EastEnders spoilers

        After hearing about a cheap vintage car supplier, she strikes a deal with Mark to restore them and sell them for a profit. However, she is shocked when the first car arrives, and it isn’t exactly what she expected…

        Elaine and Ian at a council gala in EastEnders spoilers
        Ian backs Elaine at a council gala (Credit: BBC)

        11. Ian and Elaine make up

        As Ian is working the room at a council gala, Elaine feels out of place. After a run-in with another guest, Elaine is pleased when Ian backs her up, and they agree to put their past behind them. With tensions starting to thaw, could this be the start of something new between the pair?



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        91-Year-Old Who Received Wellness Check From Police Was Busy Gaming

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        91-Year-Old Who Received Wellness Check From Police Was Busy Gaming



        Usually, having to call for a wellness check on an elderly family member is a terrifying experience. But last week, a police check-in on a 91-year-old Ohio woman led to an unexpectedly amusing find: the woman had missed several phone calls and the sound of the cops knocking on the door because she was just really, really locked in on gaming.

        The unnamed elderly gamer was found in the zone last Thursday in Westlake, Ohio, according to a report by News 5 Cleveland (thanks, GamesRadar). She had signed up for a city program called Are You Okay? via which elderly residents can receive a daily check-in call over the phone. When she didn’t answer her daily call, dispatchers as well as the woman’s daughter called her to follow up, but she still didn’t pick up. Things got especially concerning when police officers were sent to her house, and she didn’t answer the door for them, either.

        But when the officers entered her home using a door code, they found out that she was entirely okay and was just busy hanging out in her bedroom “trying to beat her record” in a game. 

        “Everyone got a good laugh out of it,” Westlake Police Captain Jerry Vogel told News 5 Cleveland.Vogel said the woman was thankful they’d checked in on her (although I can only hope they didn’t interrupt her record attempt, which was apparently very important).

        Unfortunately for us, the report didn’t clarify what game she was so immersed in. It’s easy to assume she was busy playing Candy Crush or something on the casual side, but you never know. She could just as easily be the next elderly gamer phenomenon to join the ranks of the 91-year-old who beat Resident Evil Requiem without help and the 95-year-old legally blind grandmother who’s kind of a beast in the FPS training program Aimlabs. 



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        Crypto.com Reveals $1 Million in CRO Fighter Bonuses for White House UFC Fight – Decrypt

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        Crypto.com Reveals Million in CRO Fighter Bonuses for White House UFC Fight – Decrypt



        In brief

        Crypto.com will co-present UFC Freedom 250 at the White House on June 14, marking America’s 250th birthday.
        The exchange is creating a $1 million bonus pool in CRO tokens for fighters.
        Ilia Topuria faces Justin Gaethje in the main event, which coincides with the crypto exchange’s 10th birthday.

        Crypto.com will co-present a UFC combat sports event on the White House grounds June 14, commemorating America’s 250th birthday with the sport’s largest-ever fighter bonus pool, according to a weekend announcement from UFC and the crypto exchange.

        The exchange will distribute $1 million to selected fighters on the UFC Freedom 250 card, paid out in CRO tokens. With CRO recently trading above $0.068, the pool currently represents nearly 14.6 million CRO tokens.

        “This is the most historic sporting event in history, and it’s a night where every single fight has the potential to be Fight of the Night,” said UFC President and CEO Dana White, in a statement. “Crypto.com is giving fighters the biggest bonus in UFC history, with $1 million on the line. The world will be watching on June 14.”

        The fight card features lightweight champion Ilia Topuria against interim champion Justin Gaethje in the main event, while former two-division champion Alex Pereira seeks an unprecedented third UFC title against Ciryl Gane. The event will stream on Paramount+ in the United States, and coincides with the crypto exchange’s 10th anniversary.

        

        “I can think of no better way to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Crypto.com than by making history at the White House,” said Kris Marszalek, co-founder and CEO of Crypto.com. “We are humbled to join our long-standing partners at the UFC and serve as co-presenting partner of Freedom 250—an event that transcends sport.”

        The partnership between Crypto.com and UFC dates to 2021, when the exchange became the sport’s first Official Fight Kit Partner. The companies have also collaborated on official UFC digital collectables, aka NFTs, via the Crypto.com platform. UFC also has a blockchain tech partner in VeChain, and a licensed FIGHT token on Solana and BNB Chain.

        UFC has also tapped prediction market giant Polymarket for an exclusive partnership, and over the weekend, one trader on the platform scored big on a “scoring error,” turning a $500 bet into a $252,000 win after noticing that an incorrect fight outcome was announced on the broadcast.

        Crypto.com is already closely aligned with one of President Trump’s business endeavors, linking up with Trump Media & Technology Group for a series of crypto ETF offerings, as well as CRO integrations across the firm’s Truth Social and Truth+ platforms. The companies also teamed for a CRO treasury company, amassing large quantities of the coin, and a prediction market push.

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