BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 899,642
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 03Jun2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Ukraine's Drone Attack Shocks World / Russia-Ukraine Talks Fall Flat / ICE Nabs 1,500 Illegal Aliens / GOP Fiscal Bill Heads to Senate / Aussies Limit BTC ATM Amounts / Texas Lawmaker Discloses BTC Holding a Bit Too Late / Russian Bank Issues Bitcoin Bonds / Robinhood Buys Crypto Exchange / Coinbase Knew About Breach Months Ago, Faces Lawsuits / 21 Capital Stocking Up on BTC / Markets Steady / Meta Signs Nuke Deal to Power AI / AI to Quickly Surpass Bitcoin in Power Draw
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $105,308 31.35 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $106,543 / Lo: $103,727
Volume: $44B (Up 6%)
Mkt Cap: $2.09T (Up 1%)
HashRate: 926 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1 sats/vBtye (Down 50%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. How Ukraine carried out daring 'Spider Web' attack on Russian bombers: It was an attack of astonishing ingenuity – unprecedented, broad, and 18 months in the making. On 1 June more than 100 Ukrainian drones struck air bases deep inside Russia, targeting nuclear-capable long-range bombers. The scale of the operation dubbed "Spider Web" became clear almost as soon as it began, with explosions reported across several time zones all over Russia - as far north as Murmansk above the Arctic Circle, and as far east as the Amur region, over 8,000km from Ukraine. Maliuk said the drones were smuggled into Russia inside wooden cabins mounted on the back of lorries and concealed below remotely operated detachable roofs. The lorries were then apparently driven to locations near airbases by drivers who were seemingly unaware of their cargo; then, the drones were launched and set upon their targets. According to Ukraine, 41 strategic bombers were hit and "at least" 13 destroyed. The strategic missile-carrying bombers targeted in the attack are thought to be – among others - the Tu-95, Tu-22 and Tu-160. (BBC) (AC-A bit longer than our normal post, but a very significant event in this new age of remote warfare.)
2. Russia sets out punitive terms at peace talks with Ukraine: Russia told Ukraine at peace talks on Monday that it would only agree to end the war if Kyiv gives up big new chunks of territory and accepts limits on the size of its army, according to a memorandum reported by Russian media. Ukraine has repeatedly rejected the Russian conditions as tantamount to surrender. (Reuters)
-US Events-
1. ICE Nabs 1,500 Illegal Aliens in Large-Scale Boston Operation: The operation was a monthlong effort “focusing on transnational organized crime, gangs and egregious illegal alien offenders,” ICE said. "Working together, we were able to arrest almost 1,500 illegal aliens throughout the Commonwealth, most of whom had significant criminality in the United States or abroad,” (Breitbart)
2. GOP Megabill Moves To The Senate, But Rand Paul Says 'Math Doesn't Really Add Up': "I think there are four of us at this point, and I would be very surprised if the bill at least is not modified in a good direction," said Paul. "I want the tax cuts to be permanent. But at the same time, I don't wanna raise the debt ceiling five trillion," (ZeroHedge)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. AUSTRAC Responds to Rise in Scams by Imposing Limits on Crypto ATM Transactions: AUSTRAC is taking action against crypto ATM operators in Australia due to scams targeting elderly users, with new regulations including capped transactions at $5,000 and enhanced customer due diligence. (Decrypt)
2. Texas Lawmaker Makes Late Disclosure of $500,000 in Bitcoin: Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX) failed to disclose up to $500,000 in Bitcoin purchases within the 45-day window mandated by federal law, raising concerns about transparency and conflicts of interest among crypto-investing lawmakers. The STOCK Act, passed in 2012, requires timely reporting of lawmakers’ securities transactions, including those involving digital assets, to prevent insider trading. (Decrypt)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Russia’s Largest Bank Starts Issuing Bitcoin Bonds: Sberbank, Russia’s largest financial institution, has announced the issuance of the first batch of structured bitcoin bonds. The instruments are currently offered to a limited number of qualified investors, but the bank expects to provide more crypto-linked securities soon. (BitcoinCom)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Robinhood completes $200 million acquisition of crypto exchange Bitstamp: The acquisition helps Robinhood expand outside the U.S., accessing Bitstamp’s customers across the EU, UK, and Asia. (TheBlock)
2. Coinbase delayed revealing data breach that may cost up to $400M, drops third-party vendor: Coinbase was alerted as early as January 2025 that hackers had siphoned tens of thousands of customer records from one of its overseas support vendors, but the exchange waited until 14 May to notify regulators and users, according to internal emails. The revelation comes as Coinbase abruptly terminated its relationship with TaskUs, the Texas-based outsourcing firm whose India call centre staff were allegedly bribed to leak screenshots and KYC files. At least 69,461 customers’ names, addresses, partial Social Security numbers, and ticket histories were exposed. (CryptoSlate) (AC-A big blow to Coinbase.)
3. Tether Group & Bitfinex Transferred 25,812 BTC to Jack Mallers’ Twenty One Capital: Today, Tether Group and Bitfinex have transferred a combined 25,812.22 BTC to support their investment in Twenty One Capital, a newly formed Bitcoin-native company set to go public through a business combination with Cantor Equity Partners. (BitcoinMag) (AC-21 Capital is set to be a monster.)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Dollar Rises as Market Sentiment Stabilizes: The US dollar index edged higher toward 99 on Tuesday, recovering some ground after losses in the previous session as market sentiment steadied despite disappointing economic data and rising trade tensions. (TradingEconomics)
2. US Stocks Gain as Markets Eye Trump-Xi Call Amid Tariff Spat: Stocks in the US edged higher on Monday, kicking off June with gains despite rising global trade tensions. The S&P 500 rose 0.4% and the Nasdaq gained 0.7%, while the Dow added 35 points. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
NSTR
-Technology and Science-
1. Meta Signs Nuclear Energy Deal with Constellation to Power AI Expansion: Meta signed a 20-year agreement in 2025 to purchase 1.1 gigawatts of nuclear power from Constellation Energy's Clinton Clean Energy Center in Illinois. Constellation, led by CEO Joe Dominguez, plans possible new permits for advanced nuclear projects, including small modular reactors possibly at the Clinton site. (GroundNews)
2. AI's Energy Consumption Could Surpass Bitcoin's by 2025: In 2021, Elon Musk's Bitcoin tweet caused concern over proof-of-work mining's environmental impact. Now, a study predicts AI could surpass Bitcoin in global data center electricity usage by 2025. Companies like Google and Microsoft are increasing electricity consumption due to AI, but lack transparency. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Community-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 64/100 (Even)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
Watch us on YouTube and X Spaces: Tuesdays at 9pmEST/6pmPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 899,491
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 02Jun2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: 31 Palestinians Kills in Gaza / Fires, Chaos in France Following Football Final / Conservative Wins in Poland / Terror Attack With Flamethrower in Colorado / Homeless Man Stabs 11 in Oregon / IMF Eyes Pakistan Bitcoin Plans / Trump Media Raises $2.4B for Bitcoin / Trump, Xi May Talk This Week / Insurance Companies Step Up for Crypto Holders / Hackers Targeting Your Keys / XChat to Have 'Bitcoin Encryption' / Ross Ulbricht Given 300 BTC
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $104,094 31.02 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $105,930 / Lo: $103,833
Volume: $41B (Up 16%)
Mkt Cap: $2.06T (Even)
HashRate: 913 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2 sats/vBtye (Down 33%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Israeli attack on Palestinians near Gaza aid distribution center kills at least 31: Eyewitnesses said the IDF fired on crowds around 1km from a new aid site run by an Israeli-backed foundation in the al-Mawasi area of western Rafah, according to the Palestinian Authority’s Wafa news agency. Witnesses said Israeli forces fired directly “from tanks and drones”. (IndependentUK) (AC- Somewhat misleading as the area of concern is 1 KM from the aid site. Still troubling however.)
2. Two Dead, 700 Fires, and Nearly 560 Arrests in France After Champions League Final: France saw a record number of arrests following a major sporting event after deadly scenes broke out following Paris Saint-Germain’s victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final on Saturday.(Breitbart)
3. Polish nationalist Nawrocki wins presidency in setback for pro-EU government: In a victory for European conservatives inspired by U.S. President Donald Trump, Nawrocki secured 50.89% of the vote, election commission data showed, an outcome that presages more political gridlock as he is likely to use his presidential veto to thwart Prime Minister Donald Tusk's liberal policy agenda. (Reuters) (AC-Apparently Nawrocki is pro-Bitcoin.)
-US Events-
1. Suspect charged with murder after fire attack on Israeli hostage advocates in Colorado: A man who shouted "free Palestine" and used a "makeshift flamethrower" to attack people marching in support of Israeli hostages held by Hamas has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, Colorado authorities said early Monday. Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, of El Paso County, Colorado, had been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and is an Egyptian national who seemingly acted alone. (NBC)
2. Suspect in custody after 11 stabbed at Oregon homeless services provider: A suspect was in custody after the violence at 7:15 p.m. at Union Gospel Mission. Executive Director Craig Smith said that the attacker was new to the mission, having spent Saturday night there, and was about to check in for a second night when he got into a fight. (NBC)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. IMF Vs. Bitcoin: Expert Warns Pakistan Will Be The Next To Fold: Less than a week after Pakistan unveiled a plan to channel 2,000 megawatts of surplus electricity into Bitcoin mines and artificial-intelligence data centres, the International Monetary Fund has asked Islamabad authorities for “urgent clarification” and scheduled a stand-alone virtual meeting with the Finance Ministry to discuss the power allocation. (Bitcoinist)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Trump Media Completes $2.4 Billion Raise to Fuel Bitcoin Buys: Trump Media & Technology Group raised $2.4 billion for a Bitcoin treasury through stock and notes offerings. The funds will be used for Bitcoin acquisition and general corporate purposes, with Anchorage Digital and Crypto.com as custodians. (Decrypt)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Yield Steady as Investors Weigh Tariff Uncertainty: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note held steady at 4.42% on Monday, as investors assessed the potential economic fallout from renewed global trade tensions.(TradingEconomics)
2. 50% Steel Tariff Takes Effect Wednesday: President Donald Trump said that US tariffs on steel and aluminum imports will double from 25% to 50%, starting Wednesday. (TradingEconomics)
3. Trump, Xi May Talk Trade This Week, Says US Economic Adviser: U.S. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said Sunday that President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping could speak about trade “as soon as this week,” though no date has been confirmed. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Insurance companies race to cover crypto kidnap and ransom risks: A wave of violent attacks on cryptocurrency holders is pushing insurers to develop new protections aimed at a growing physical threat: kidnapping for crypto. At least three firms specializing in crypto insurance and security are now preparing tailored kidnap and ransom (K&R) policies for digital asset investors. Relm Insurance CEO Joseph Ziolkowski said his firm is finalizing its K&R offering, but pricing is complex, requiring detailed assessments of a client’s physical and cyber defenses. “If someone has 24/7 personal security detail traveling with them at all times, that obviously would be a credit and would affect premium,” he said. (CoinTelegraph)
2. Hackers now pose as security companies to frame victims while stealing private keys: Yu Xian, founder of blockchain security firm SlowMist, raised the alarm on June 1 after exposing a list of fraudulent X accounts. These accounts, he said, pretend to represent trusted security services while secretly working to compromise their targets. (CryptoSlate)
-Technology and Science-
1. Elon Musk Claims ‘Bitcoin Style’ Encryption for New XChat Features: Elon Musk has announced that the new XChat feature on the X platform will incorporate “Bitcoin style” encryption, enhancing user privacy and security. However, many in the crypto community were quick to point out that “Bitcoin style” encryption doesn’t mean much, with Samson Mow simply replying, “Bitcoin isn’t encrypted.” (BitcoinCom)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Ross Ulbricht Given 300 Bitcoin Donation: Ross Ulbricht, the recently freed founder of the Silk Road marketplace, has received a donation of 300 BTC, valued at over $31 million, to his designated donation wallet. (BitcoinCom)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 64/100 (Up 4 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: 
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 897,549
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 20May2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Ukraine Talks Still in Play / French Want Army Deployed in Cities / US Rep. McIver Charged With Assault / SCOTUS OKs Trump's TPS Revocation for Venezuelans / GENIUS Act Moves Forward / New SEC IG Targets Crypto Fraud / Circle Wants to be Sold / Wrench Attacks in Africa Up, Coinbase Hacked for Customer's Addresses / Trump Signs Deepfake Law
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $105,056, 32.47 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $106,814 / Lo: $102,161
Volume: $55B (Down 14%)
Mkt Cap: $2.08T (Up 2%)
HashRate: 856 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 3 sats/vBtye (Up 50%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Trump Announces Immediate Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks: Following a two-hour call with Putin, Trump stated that Russia and Ukraine would begin immediate peace negotiations, with the Vatican offered as a potential venue by the Pope. (Reuters)
2. 80% Of French Women Want The Army Deployed In French Cities To Protect Them: Due to France’s drug trafficking crisis, a large majority of French are in favor of the army being deployed into disadvantaged neighborhoods in problematic neighborhoods in France, including 80 percent of women. France has seen an incredible 86 percent increase in sexual violence in the last 10 years, with mass immigration fueling this trend. (ZeroHedge)
-US Events-
1. Rep. LaMonica McIver Charged with Assault, Impeding Law Enforcement Officials at ICE Detention Center: Rep. LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) was charged with assaulting, resisting, and impeding law enforcement officers during a riot at Delaney Hall ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey. DHS Secretary Noem wrote in a post on X. “No one is above the law. If any person, regardless of political party, influence or status, assaults a law enforcement officer as we witnessed Congresswoman McIver do, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” (Breitbart)
2. Supreme Court allows Trump to revoke protected status for thousands of Venezuelans: The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Monday to allow the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status for around 350,000 Venezuelans living in the United States. (GroundNews)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Senate advances a major crypto regulation bill (GENIUS) on a bipartisan vote: The Senate voted 66-32 on Monday to advance bipartisan legislation regulating stablecoins in the U.S. Negotiators won Democratic support by strengthening rules on foreign issuers, boosting enforcement, banning tech giants from issuing stablecoins, and adding ethics rules preventing lawmakers from issuing stablecoins. (GroundNews)
2. SEC’s new interim watchdog Katherine Reilly to target crypto fraud as top priority: Katherine Reilly assumed the role of Acting Inspector General at the U.S. SEC on May 20. In the most recent “Inspector General’s Statement on the SEC’s Management and Performance Challenges” issued in October 2024, Reilly named crypto-related fraud among the agency’s four central obstacles. (CryptoSlate)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Circle Has 'Informal Talks' Over $5B Sale to Coinbase or Ripple: Circle, the stablecoin issuer behind USDC, has reportedly engaged in "informal talks" to sell itself to Coinbase or Ripple, seeking at least $5 billion, as an alternative to an IPO. Coinbase and Ripple have both shown interest in acquiring Circle, with Ripple offering $4-5 billion in XRP and cash. (Decrypt)
2. Bitcoin ETFs post strongest inflow since May 2 as investor demand returns: Spot Bitcoin ETFs saw $667.4 million in inflows on May 19, the second-largest single-day inflow this month, marking a four-day streak of net positive flows. (CryptoSlate)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Treasury Yields Stabilize: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note held steady around 4.43% on Tuesday, after a volatile session on Monday during which the benchmark briefly touched a one-month high. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Crypto Abduction Threat Spreads to Africa; Ugandan Founder Targeted: The founder of the Ugandan blockchain and crypto education institution Mitroplus Labs was abducted by armed criminals posing as law enforcement. The criminals demanded $500,000 and access to the founder’s cryptocurrency wallets. (BitcoinCom) (AC-Wrench attacks are becoming a weekly story now.)
2. Coinbase data leak could put users in physical danger: A recent data breach at crypto exchange Coinbase has raised concerns about user safety after hackers gained access to sensitive information, including home addresses. While no passwords, private keys or account funds were exposed, cybercriminals reportedly bribed overseas customer service contractors to access internal systems. This allowed them to steal personal data that could be used in social engineering scams or even physical extortion attempts. (CoinTelegraph) (AC-Not good.)
-Technology and Science-
1. Trump Signs Law Criminalizing Non-Consensual Sharing Online of Intimate Images, Deepfakes: The Take It Down Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump, criminalizes non-consensual online publication of intimate images, including deepfakes, and requires tech platforms to remove such content within 48 hours. First Lady Melania Trump praised the law as a victory for protecting children. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Community-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 71/100 (Up 1 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): It's obvious bitcoin and crypto holders are being targeted globally for 'wrench attacks' more frequently. Act today to protect your identity, holdings, home and loved ones. Build deceptive wallets and use multi-sig where possible. Use your 2A rights.
Follow us on NOSTR: 
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 896,962
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 15May2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Russia-Ukraine Talks Proceed Without Putin / China Activity Up Near Taiwan / DHS Investigating James Comey Post / NYU Withholds Diploma Over Anti-Israel Speech / NJ Transit Strike Strands Many / GENIUS is Not Dead / WI Investment Board Sells BTC ETC at a Low / Abu Dhabi Sovereign Wealth Buys More BTC ETF / New Companies Start Bitcoin Treasuries / Markets Quiet / Coinbase Hacked for $400M / Cartels Using Drones For Recon / US-UAE Sign Deal for Huge New AI Center / Artists Price Works in Bitcoin / Global Population To Start Decline in 2085
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $103,636, 32.84 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $104,432 / Lo: $101,440
Volume: $50 (Up 15%)
Mkt Cap: $2.05T (Up 1%)
HashRate: 846 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 3 sats/vBtye (Down 25%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Russians and Ukrainians meet in Turkey for first talks in 3 years: Live Turkish television pictures showed Russian and Ukrainian negotiators holding discussions together with a Turkish delegation. The meeting at the Dolmabahce Palace on the Bosphorus marks a rare sign of diplomatic progress between the warring sides, who had not met face-to-face since March 2022. It was Putin who proposed the direct talks in Turkey, but he spurned a challenge from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to meet him there in person. Instead, he sent a team of mid-level officials, and Ukraine responded by naming negotiators of similar rank. (Reuters)
2. Taiwan sees spike in PLA military activity as island stages defence drills: Taiwan has reported an increase in activity by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) near the self-ruled island over the past four days, as its own military has conducted a series of live-fire drills to test its amphibious defences. The island’s defence ministry reported on Thursday that 29 aircraft and nine vessels were operating near the island in the last 24 hours. (SCMP)
-US Events-
1. Noem says DHS, Secret Service investigating Comey over alleged ‘assassination’ threat: Former FBI Director James Comey posted an Instagram image on May 15, 2025, showing seashells forming the numbers '8647'. The number '86' often means to get rid of or refuse service, which some Trump administration officials interpret as a call for violence against the president. (GroundNews)
2. NYU denies diploma to student who criticized Israel in commencement speech: Logan Rozos delivered a pro-Palestinian speech at NYU's Gallatin School graduation on Wednesday, which received cheers and a standing ovation. The university announced it would withhold Rozos’s diploma and pursue disciplinary action amid nationwide pressure on universities to counter pro-Palestinian speech linked to possible federal funding risks. (GroundNews)
3. New Jersey Transit strike underway; some 350,000 commuters scramble for transportation: Members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) union had been threatening to go on strike unless NJ Transit officials and the union were able to agree on new contract terms and conditions for the workers who drive the trains. (ABC)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Stablecoin Legislation Is Moving in the Senate Again as Lawmakers Negotiate New Draft: Progress has been made on the Senate's GENIUS Act, with new language addressing national security, ethics, and Big Tech in stablecoin legislation. The bill still exempts the president and vice president from issuing stablecoins, but now prohibits executive special government employees from doing so. (Decrypt) (AC-GENIUS is apparently not dead.)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Wisconsin Investment Board Liquidates $300M Stake BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF Amid Tariff Uncertainty: The State of Wisconsin Investment Board sold its $300 million stake in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust during the first quarter of 2025, amidst market uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs. The sale was completed before 'Liberation Day' on April 2, 2025, when comprehensive tariffs were imposed. (Decrypt) (AC-Even investment boards are subject to emotional transactions. Now that the BTC price is rising, maybe it's a good time to repurchase...)
2. Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund raised BlackRock Bitcoin ETF exposure to 8.7 million shares in Q1, valued at $408.5 million: An Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund added an extra 491,439 shares in BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF in Q1, currently worth $28.8 million. The acquisitions bring Mubadala Investment Company’s total IBIT holdings to 8,726,972 shares, now valued at $512 million. (TheBlock)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. A1 Abraaj Becomes First Middle Eastern Public Firm to Adopt Bitcoin Treasury Strategy: Bahrain-based A1 Abraaj Restaurants Group has officially adopted bitcoin as its primary treasury reserve asset. (BitcoinCom)
2. Meliuz Purchases 274 BTC, Pioneering Bitcoin Treasury Strategy in Brazil: Meliuz, a Brazilian cashback business, has become the first public company in Brazil and Latin America to establish a bitcoin treasury strategy. (BitcoinCom)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Dollar Set to End Week Little Changed: The US dollar index eased to around 100.6 on Friday and was poised to end the week little changed, as early gains from the US-China trade truce were offset by softer US economic data. (TradingEconomics)
2. S&P 500 Extends Gains for Fourth Day: US stocks closed mixed Thursday as investors weighed earnings, economic data, and lingering trade uncertainty. The S&P 500 rose 0.4% for a fourth straight gain, lifted by Cisco’s 3.7% jump on an upbeat AI-driven forecast, while the Dow added 271 points and the Nasdaq 100 finished muted, as Amazon and Meta weighed. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Coinbase Hack: $400M Breach via Insider Threat: On May 11, someone sent Coinbase an email claiming they had accessed customer data. At first glance? Classic bluff. But this was different. Hackers had paid insiders—both employees and external collaborators—to get their hands on sensitive systems. From there, it snowballed: fake identities, direct manipulation of users, and theft of real crypto assets. Coinbase is already reinforcing internal controls, and the transparency around the breach might actually work in their favor long-term. Still, if you’re holding funds on centralized exchanges, this is your reminder: Not your keys, not your coins. (BitcoinSensus)
-Technology and Science-
1. Mexican Cartels Increasingly Using Drones to Replace Human Scouts: Mexican cartels are increasing their use of drones to replace human scouts to monitor the activity of U.S. Border Patrol agents along the border. The drones are reportedly replacing the human scouts who were frequently minors. (Breitbart)
2. Trump and Abu Dhabi ink partnership to build massive AI data center complex in UAE: The US and UAE will partner to build a massive data center complex in Abu Dhabi to advance artificial intelligence capabilities with 5-gigawatts of capacity — enough to power a major city. No companies were named in the Commerce Department’s announcement, although Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang was spotted at one of Trump’s UAE meetings. Nvidia declined to comment. (CNN)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Creative Energy Priced In Sats: 12 Bitcoin Artists Preview Bitcoin 2025 Art Gallery and Auction: Since 2019, the Bitcoin Conference Art Gallery has invited artists to do something radical—at least by traditional art world standards: price their work in bitcoin—not as metaphor, but as method. (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 70/100 (Down 3 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): FutureCast Friday: Global Population Is Projected To Begin Declining In 2085: As fertility rates fall and life expectancy rises, average ages are climbing in nearly every country, while population growth is steadily tapering off. The global population is projected to begin declining in 2085, as the average age rises to 42 years (from the current 33 years). By the year 2100, the average person is expected to be 43 years old, with population growth at -0.1%. Population aging carries several economic challenges. These include shrinking labor forces, slower productivity growth, and increased fiscal pressure on pension and healthcare systems. (ZeroHedge) (AC-Demographics are one of the key pillars for forecasting the future. Even though the variables are many, population and age are components of economic growth and demand on resources.)
Follow us on NOSTR: 
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 896,819
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 15May2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Putin Skips Ukraine Talks / Pakistan-India Ceasefire Tenuous / Last Hamas US Hostage Goes Home / House Ag Bill Tightens SNAP Requirements / DBI Gabbard Fires Politicized Intel Officers / Crypto P2P Exempt From Remittance Tax / Largest Online Marketplace Haowang Shut Down / Ukraine Looks at Strategic Bitcoin Reserve / Mastercard Picks Up Crypto Payments / Spy Devices Found on Chinese Solar Units in US / Tether's New Decentralyzed AI Will Transact in BTC and USDT / Solar Flares Impact Some Comms / Most UK Bitcoiners HODL
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $102,382, 32.18 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $104,303 / Lo: $101,540
Volume: $45 (Down 12%)
Mkt Cap: $2.03T (Down 1%)
HashRate: 855 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 4 sats/vBtye (Up 100%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Putin to skip Ukraine talks as confusion swirls in Turkey: Ukraine and Russia may hold talks in Turkey today but there is confusion over who, if anyone, will attend. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin won’t be taking part, despite calling the talks himself. Kyiv and Moscow are not known to have held direct talks at any level since soon after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. (CNN)
2. Pakistan Commits to India Ceasefire but Vows Response to Aggression: Pakistan reiterated its commitment to a ceasefire with India but warned of retaliation if attacked, amid ongoing tensions. The statement follows recent hostilities and a ceasefire agreement, with both nations expelling diplomats. (Reuters)
3. Last U.S. Hostage in Gaza Is Reunited With Parents: ‘We Never Lost Hope’: Edan Alexander was 19 when he left New Jersey to serve in the Israel Defense Forces. Edan Alexander was kept hostage underground for 583 days in the tunnels beneath Gaza. After he was released on Monday evening, he stood in a plain white room on an Israeli military base as his mother rushed in. (NYTimes)
-US Events-
1. House GOP Agriculture bill advances out of committee: The legislation directs states to cover a portion of SNAP benefit costs, narrows eligibility requirements for the program, and aims to prevent the federal government from being able to increase monthly benefits in the future. Work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents would also tighten under the plan. (TheHill) (AC-Not sure why SNAP issues are included in an agriculture bill.)
2. DNI Gabbard fires two senior intelligence officials focused on assessing threats to US: Gabbard fired Mike Collins, the acting chair, and his deputy, Maria Langan-Riekhof, on Tuesday. The dismissals come as Gabbard has vowed to root out what she has described as politicization of the intelligence community, and launched a war on leaks to the media that critics say is hollowing out the intelligence community of needed expertise from experienced professionals. (CNN)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Crypto P2P Transfers Dodge 5% Remittance Fee in New Tax Plan Proposal: The newly proposed 5% remittance tax, tucked into the House’s “Big Beautiful” tax reform bill, could have significant implications for cryptocurrency holders in America. One of the bill’s most controversial additions is the proposed 5% remittance tax, which has major implications for cryptocurrency users. While the tax applies to traditional remittance providers like PayPal and MoneyGram, it exempts peer-to-peer crypto transactions—a loophole that could boost digital asset adoption. (BItcoinSensus)
2. World's largest illicit online marketplace Haowang shuts down after Telegram intervention: Haowang Guarantee, a Telegram-based illicit marketplace and money laundering channel, announced its closure earlier this week. Blockchain analytics firm Elliptic said Haowang was the largest-ever illicit online marketplace, processing over $27 billion in USDT transactions. (TheBlock)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Ukraine plans first-of-its-kind Bitcoin reserves with reported support from Binance: According to Ukrainian media outlet Incrypted, Member of Parliament Yaroslav Zhelezniak confirmed that a draft law is being developed to support the initiative. (CryptoSlate)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Mastercard Teams With MoonPay in Latest Stablecoin Tie-Up: A new partnership between Mastercard and a crypto company, MoonPay, will enable users and businesses to conduct transactions using stablecoins globally. The collaboration leverages infrastructure from Iron, a stablecoin payment firm acquired by MoonPay. Despite regulatory uncertainties, card networks are increasingly embracing stablecoin technology for various financial applications. (Decrypt)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Yield Holds Advance: The yield on the 10-year US Treasury note held steady around 4.53% on Thursday, maintaining recent gains as easing global trade tensions dampened demand for safe-haven assets. (TradingEconomics)
2. Nasdaq Rises on Chip Rally: US stocks ended mixed on Wednesday as investors weighed evolving trade policies and recent strength in the tech sector. The S&P 500 added 0.1% after erasing its losses for the year, while the Dow slipped 89 points and the Nasdaq 100 rose 0.7%, boosted by gains in major chipmakers. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. U.S. Engineers Find ‘Rogue Communication Devices’ in Chinese Solar Panels: U.S. engineers have discovered mysterious, undocumented communication devices lurking in some Chinese-made solar power inverters and batteries. “The rogue components provide additional, undocumented communication channels that could allow firewalls to be circumvented remotely, with potentially catastrophic consequences,” said Reuters’ sources. (Reuters)
-Technology and Science-
1. Meet 'QVAC': Tether’s Decentralized AI God in Your Pocket: Stablecoin giant Tether's new QVAC AI platform takes aim at Big Tech and lets agents run independently, transacting in Bitcoin and USDT. Tether says AI developed using its QVAC framework can run entirely on user devices and claims its QVAC architecture is designed to support trillions of AI agents. The company will release an open-source software development kit later this year. (Decrypt)
2. Blackouts Around The World As X Class Solar Flare Hits Earth: Three solar flares have erupted from sunspot region 4087 since yesterday. The latest was the largest of the year so far. "Flares of this magnitude are not frequent," they note, adding "users of high frequency (HF) radio signals may experience temporary degradation or complete loss of signal on much of the sunlit side of Earth." (IFLScience)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Most UK Bitcoin Holders Have Never Sold: The 2024 UK Customer Report by CoinCorner reveals that 51% of customers have never sold their Bitcoin, opting for small, frequent purchases and larger sales during price surges. Demographics challenge stereotypes, with 56% of users aged 35-54, and London leading in user count and transaction volume. (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 70/100 (Down 3 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: 
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 896,665
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 14May2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: US Lifts Syria Sanctions / US-Saudi Deal Announced / Gaza Faces Starvation / Columbia Joins Chinas Belt and Road / US Judge Indicted on Harboring Charges / Trump's Alien Enemies Invocation Upheld in Court / US Senators Push for Corporate Tax Exemption on Digital Asset Holdings / Trump's Crypto Ties May Be Hurting Legislation / Largest One-Day Bitcoin Exodus From Exchanges in 2025 / Twenty-One Company Prepares to Play / Dollar Down, Stocks Up / Another Wrench Attack in France Draws Attention / Alabama Gov Offices Under Cyberattack / AI Helping Those Who Use It / OP_RETURN Battle Foremost For Bitcoiners
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $104,072, 32.23 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $104,997 / Lo: $102,895
Volume: $51 (Down 11%)
Mkt Cap: $2.06T (Up 1%)
HashRate: 856 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2 sats/vBtye (Down 50%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Trump Lifts Syria Sanctions, Secures $600 Billion Saudi Deal: President Trump announced the U.S. will lift long-standing sanctions on Syria and secured a $600 billion investment commitment from Saudi Arabia during a Gulf tour focused on economic partnerships. (Reuters)
2. Some IDF officers warn Gaza could face starvation in weeks without new aid: Some officers in the Israeli military have concluded that Gaza could face widespread starvation if the delivery of food aid is not restored in the coming weeks, The New York Times reported on Tuesday, citing three Israeli defense officials familiar with conditions in the Strip. Israel cut off aid to Gaza on March 2, following the collapse of a hostage-ceasefire release deal, amid an effort to pressure the Hamas terror group into releasing more captives. (TimesofIsrael)
3. Colombia Joins Belt And Road Initiative As China Courts Latin America: Colombia's foreign ministry hailed the agreement as a "historic step that opens up new opportunities for investment, technological cooperation, and sustainable development for both countries". China has surpassed the United States as the biggest trading partner of Brazil, Peru, Chile and other Latin American nations, and two-thirds of countries there have signed up to Chinese leader Xi Jinping's Belt and Road infrastructure drive. (IBTimes)
-US Events-
1. Federal grand jury indicts Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan: The FBI arrested Dugan on federal obstruction charges last month, after they alleged she helped an undocumented migrant avoid immigration agents who were trying to arrest him after his appearance in her courtroom. The indictment claims that Judge Dugan directed immigration agents to leave the location of the planned arrest and go to the Chief Judge's office, and instructed Ruiz and his attorney to exit the courtroom through a non-public jury door. (WISN)
2. Judge upholds Trump's authority to deport criminal migrants under Alien Enemies Act: A federal judge on Tuesday said the Trump administration can invoke the Alien Enemies Act (AEA) to deport criminal illegal immigrant members of the Venezuelan Tren De Aragua gang, but that it has not given adequate prior notice to those subject to removal, before those deportations can take place, which would allow possible due process and habeas legal challenges. (Fox)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. U.S. Senators Request Treasury Exemption for Unrealized Crypto Gains from CAMT: Senators Lummis and Moreno propose exempting unrealized crypto gains from Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax (CAMT). FASB’s 2023 accounting rule requires fair value reporting of digital assets, creating potential tax burden on unrealized gains. (Blockonomi)
2. Trump’s crypto influence scrutinized as stablecoin legislation stalls in Congress: Trump’s deepening ties to crypto projects are raising ethical questions as regulation efforts stall. The president’s memecoin and stablecoin connections have complicated bipartisan talks on digital asset laws. (TheBlock) (AC-This issue highlights the subversive nature of memecoins and altcoins in relation to Bitcoin's transparency.)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bitcoin ETFs Cling to Inflow Momentum With $5 Million Net Gain: Bitcoin ETFs marked their fourth straight day of inflows, narrowly holding ground with a $5 million net gain led solely by Blackrock’s IBIT. (BitcoinCom)
2. $1B Bitcoin exits Coinbase in a day as analysts warn of supply shock: On May 9, Coinbase saw 9,739 Bitcoin, worth more than $1 billion, withdrawn from the exchange — the highest net outflow recorded in 2025. “In 2025 alone, corporations have bought four times more Bitcoin than all US spot Bitcoin ETFs combined, which is crazy,” he said. “We’re close to 200,000 Bitcoin already, which is the annual supply of new Bitcoin.” (CoinTelegraph)
3. Bitcoin Treasury Company Twenty One Has $459M in BTC Coming via Tether: Tether purchased nearly $459 million worth of Bitcoin for Twenty One's treasury, to be sold at the same price post-merger. The new Bitcoin company, formed by Tether, Bitfinex, Cantor Fitzgerald, and SoftBank Group, plans to launch with over 42,000 Bitcoin. (Decrypt)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Dollar Holds Decline as Inflation Cools: The US dollar index hovered around 100.9 on Wednesday, after falling nearly 1% in the previous session, pressured by weaker-than-expected inflation data that signaled only a limited impact from President Donald Trump’s tariffs. (TradingEconomics)
2. S&P Turns Positive for 2025, Nvidia Fuels Tech Gains: Wall Street extended its rally on Tuesday as easing US-China trade tensions and softer inflation data boosted investor confidence. The S&P 500 closed 0.7% higher, reclaiming positive territory for 2025, while the Nasdaq 100 jumped 1.6%, driven by a sharp rebound in chipmakers.(TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. French interior minister to meet with crypto businesses after recent kidnappings: On Tuesday, the daughter and grandson of a French cryptocurrency entrepreneur narrowly escaped a kidnap attempt by armed men in central Paris. The Interior Ministry meeting is scheduled for Friday, officials said. (LeMonde)
2. Alabama says ‘cybersecurity event’ could disrupt state government services: Alabama’s governor said the state is responding to a “cybersecurity event” and is advising residents to be patient with any disruptions to government website access or other communications. (TheRecord)
-Technology and Science-
1. Your A.I. Radiologist Will Not Be With You Soon: Experts predicted that artificial intelligence would steal radiology jobs. But at the Mayo Clinic, the technology has been more friend than foe. Today, radiologists — the physician specialists in medical imaging who look inside the body to diagnose and treat disease — are still in high demand. (NYTimes)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. OP_RETURN Limits: Bitcoin’s Battle Over Arbitrary Data: An OP_RETURN debate flared up in the Bitcoin industry in recent weeks and has by now invaded most conversation spaces within the industry. Spearheaded by Peter Todd, though supported by many Bitcoin Core contributors, the removal of the OP_RETURN limit represents a harm reduction approach to the problem of spam and arbitrary data on Bitcoin. The opposition, led by Luke Dashjr, not only wants to keep the OP_RETURN limit in place and retain the datacarrier size but proposes further mempool policy restrictions on arbitrary data and “non-monetary” transactions on Bitcoin. (BitcoinMag) (AC-The article is a good primer on the debate complete with opposing agendas and viewpoints.)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 73/100 (Up 3 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: 
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 896,546
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 13May2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: US-China Tariff Deal Begins / Trump in Mid-East / India's Modi Says Truce Temporary / GOP House Bill Affects Many / South African Refugees Come to US / Arizona Says No to Bitcoin / Dubai Implements Crypto Payments / Coinbase Joins S&P 500 / Nakamoto Holdings Merges with KindlyMD / Wall Street Booms / Blackrock Notes Quantum Risk To Bitcoin / House Proposes 10-year Ban on State AI Regulation
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $103,853, 31.99 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $104,607 / Lo: $100,814
Volume: $57 (Up 7%)
Mkt Cap: $2.76T (Up 1%)
HashRate: 873 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 4 sats/vBtye (Up 33%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. U.S. and China Implement Tariff Reduction Deal: The U.S. and China began implementing a 90-day agreement to slash tariffs, with U.S. levies on Chinese goods reduced from 145% to 30% and Chinese levies on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%. The deal, negotiated in Geneva, aims to de-escalate the trade war. (Reuters)
2. US President Trump arrives in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh for first stop on four-day Gulf tour: Trump met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss Iran, Gaza, oil prices, Gulf investments in U.S. Technology sectors, and a Gulf Cooperation Council summit. The visit aims to strengthen U.S.-Gulf ties, promote investments exceeding $2 trillion, and potentially ease Syria sanctions while addressing ongoing regional crises. (GroundNews)
3. India’s Modi says fighting ‘only paused’ in wake of conflict with Pakistan: The ultranationalist Hindu leader said in New Delhi that his government will not make a distinction between governments that support “terrorism” and “terrorist groups”. He said India would “retaliate on its own terms” if there is any future “terror” attack on the country. (AlJazeera)
-US Events-
1. Trump Rallies GOP To Back 'Big, Beautiful Bill' As House Releases 389-Page Text: On Monday, the house GOP released a draft of the bill which confirms several core policy pillars. Among the most consequential is a 5% remittance tax on international money transfers, designed to fund border security, which includes a new refundable credit for verified U.S. senders and strict compliance rules. The legislation also introduces a new federal income tax deduction for qualified tips and overtime compensation through 2028. (ZeroHedge) (AC-There are numerous provisions in the draft tax bill resulting in myriad consequences for Americans. The final bill will surely differ from today's version.)
2. South African Refugees Arrive in U.S. Under Trump Plan: The first 49 white South Africans, deemed victims of racial discrimination, arrived in the U.S. under a Trump administration refugee plan, sparking debate over immigration policy. (Reuters)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Arizona Governor Hobbs Vetoes Bills for State Crypto Funds But Signs Law Regulating ATMs: Gov. Hobbs vetoed bills proposing the establishment of a Digital Assets Strategic Reserve Fund and allocating state funds to Bitcoin. She signed a bill regulating crypto ATMs, requiring operators to display fraud warnings and comply with anti-money laundering protocols. (Decrypt)
2. Dubai’s finance department signs MOU with Crypto(.)com to enable crypto payments for government services: Crypto payments will be converted to Emirati dirhams, aiming to boost Dubai’s fintech economy by $2.1 billion annually. (TheBlock)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Coinbase to Join S&P 500 Index on May 19, First Crypto Company to Achieve Milestone: CEO Brian Armstrong called the inclusion a validation that “crypto is here to stay”. Coinbase shares rose 8.8% to $225.4 in after-hours trading following the announcement. (Blockonomi)
2. Nakamoto Holdings and KindlyMD Merge to Create a Bitcoin Treasury, Raising $710 Million for Adoption: Nakamoto Holdings and KindlyMD have formed a new Bitcoin treasury, raising $710 million through private investment and convertible notes. The merger aims to accelerate Bitcoin adoption globally, with David Bailey as the CEO. KindlyMD, a healthcare firm, will maintain its focus on combating the opioid crisis. (Decrypt) (AC- "Adoption" of Bitcoin once meant the use of it as a means of exchange, but growing use of Bitcoin as a company's treasury, or store of value, is morphing the term in media discourse. "Adoption" of Bitcoin now means different things to new and old holders of Bitcoin.)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Wall Street Soars on US-China Tariff Truce: US stocks roared higher on Monday after the US and China agreed to temporarily slash tariffs, easing fears of a prolonged trade war and possible recession. The S&P 500 jumped 3.2% and the Nasdaq 100 soared 4%, while the Dow Jones surged 1,160 points. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the weekend negotiations in Switzerland “very productive,” confirming both sides would cut tariffs, the US to 30% and China to 10%, for 90 days. (TradingEconomics)
2. US 10-Year Yield Holds Up Amid US-China Deal: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note held near 4.45% on Tuesday, close to a one-month high, as easing trade tensions between the US and China reduced demand for safe-haven assets. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. BlackRock flags quantum computing as risk for Bitcoin ETFs: Emerging technologies, including quantum computing, could potentially render the cryptography securing Bitcoin and other blockchain networks ineffective, asset manager BlackRock said in a regulatory filing. (CoinTelegraph)
-Technology and Science-
1. House GOP proposes 10-year ban on state AI regulations: The bill text from the House Energy and Commerce Committee would bar states from enforcing laws or regulations governing AI models, AI systems or automated decision systems. The bill aligns with the administration’s emphasis on AI innovation instead of regulation. (TheHill)
-Bitcoin Community-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 70/100 (Even)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: 
BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 895,956
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 09May2025
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: US-UK Announce Tariff Deal / First American Pope, Leo XIV / Missiles, Drones Exchanged in India, Pakistan / China Drops Economic Reporting Prior to US Negotiations / Jeanine Piro Named Interim US Attorney for DC / Pentagon to Oust Transgenders / Germany Reclaims Some Hacked Bitcoin / GENIUS Bill Dead / Man Sends Crypto To ISIS / EU To Track all Crypto Exchanged / Arizona Establish Bitcoin Reserve Only for Abandoned / Stocks Up on Trade Deals / Meta ChatBot Privacy Nightmare / ChatGPT Saves Ailing Man / Steak N Shake Now Takes Bitcoin
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $103,104, 30.90 oz Gold, .24 Median US House
24hr Hi: $104,297 / Lo: $99,122
Vol: $75B (Up 38%)
Mkt Cap: $2.04T (Up 4%)
HashRate: 908 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 6 sats/vBtye (Up 200%)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. US and UK Announce Tariff Reduction Deal: The United States and Britain finalized a trade agreement to lower tariffs on select goods, boosting UK assets amid economic challenges. The deal aims to strengthen bilateral trade and counter global market pressures. (Reuters)
2. Robert Prevost elected as first American pope and takes the name Leo XIV: The 69-year-old from Chicago stepped into his role as the 267th pope on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. (CNN)
3. 500 Pakistani drones targeted 24 cities in J&K, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat: Apart from swarm of drones, Pakistan also deployed missiles, which were promptly intercepted and blocked by India's air defense units. Meanwhile airlines Reroute Flights Over India and Pakistan.(IndiaToday)
4. China Panics Ahead Of Trade-Talks, Shuts Down Its Economic Data: Rarely do nations go entirely silent on the market, as in turning off the switches and making the data rooms go dark. It is an ominous sign. This is precisely what has happened in China. The bureaus have simply stopped reporting. (ZeroHedge)
-US Events-
1. Trump names Jeanine Pirro interim US attorney for DC: President Trump announced Thursday he’s appointing Fox News host and former prosecutor Jeanine Pirro the interim US attorney for Washington, DC, after his first pick faced what appeared to be insurmountable pushback from Republicans on Capitol Hill. (CNN)
2. Up to 1,000 transgender troops are being moved out of the military in new Pentagon order: The Defense Department announced it would promptly start separating up to a thousand transgender service members who have openly disclosed their gender identity, while also allowing others a 30-day period to self-report under the new order. (GroundNews)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Germany seizes $38M in crypto from Bybit hack-linked eXch exchange: The $38 million crypto seizure from Bybit hack-linked eXch was the third-largest crypto confiscation in the history of Germany’s federal criminal police. (CoinTelegraph)
2. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent Slams Senate Over Failure to Pass GENIUS Stablecoin Bill: The Senate's failure to advance the GENIUS Act, a bill aimed at establishing a federal regulatory framework for stablecoins, has caused uncertainty over stablecoin oversight and digital asset legislation. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed disappointment, emphasizing the need for American leadership in the global digital assets race. (Decrypt)
3. Man sentenced to 30 years for funding ISIS with cryptocurrency: A Virginia man was sentenced to more than 30 years in federal prison for raising funds for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) using wire transfers, social media, and cryptocurrency. (TheBlock)
4. EU Plans to Track Crypto Transfers, Require Exchanges to Identify Self-hosted Wallet Users: Eurogroup President Paschal Donohoe discussed the EU's plan to expand AML regulation to include tracking cryptocurrency transfers. The new Anti-Money Laundering Regulation will require exchanges to identify users of self-hosted wallets. (Decrypt)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Arizona Passes Law to Establish Bitcoin Reserve Fund: On May 2, Hobbs vetoed Senate Bill 1025 which would have allowed Arizona state funds to be invested in cryptocurrencies. Hobbs described virtual currencies as “untested investments.” But after receiving another proposal, House Bill HB2749, which permits the state to only hold abandoned digital assets in a special fund, Hobbs gave the thumbs up. (BitcoinCom)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bitcoin exchange inflows show heavy institutional activity, virtually no LTH selling: Bitcoin’s pipeline to exchanges is packed with brand‑new coins, leaving long‑held supply largely untouched. (CryptoSlate)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Yield Holds Advance: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note held above 4.36% on Friday and was on track to post a second consecutive weekly gain, supported by improving global trade sentiment and diminished expectations of near-term rate cuts. (TradingEconomics)
2. Wall Street Rallies on UK Pact: Stocks in the US surged Thursday after President Trump announced a trade deal framework with the United Kingdom, the first major agreement since the US imposed sweeping tariffs earlier this year. The S&P 500 rose 0.6%, the Nasdaq jumped roughly 1.1% and the Dow gained 255 points, fueled by optimism around trade and easing geopolitical tensions. Trump described the UK deal as a breakthrough that would boost American exports, though a 10% tariff remains in place. He also hinted that tariffs on China could come down depending on the outcome of trade talks this weekend in Switzerland, where US officials will meet their Chinese counterparts. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
NSTR
-Technology and Science-
1. Meta AI's Personalized Chatbot Raises Privacy and Ethical Concerns: Meta's new AI app collects extensive user data, with analysts noting it exceeds data gathering of competitors like ChatGPT. The platform keeps chat records by default and integrates with Meta's advertising system, raising privacy concerns. (GroundNews)
2. ChatGPT 'Saved' User's Life After Urging Him to Go the Hospital 'NOW' Upon Hearing His Symptoms: 'I Would've Lost an Organ': When he woke up in the morning with more intense symptoms, he decided to consult ChatGPT out of curiosity. After inputting his symptoms, the AI responded with a clear and urgent warning: "Go to the hospital. NOW." (TechTimes)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Bitcoin to be Accepted at All Steak ‘n Shake Locations in the US Next Week: Steak ‘n Shake will start accepting Bitcoin at all U.S. locations from May 16, allowing customers to pay for items like milkshakes and burgers with BTC. This move will test Bitcoin's speed, cost, and usability in a high-volume, low-margin fast food setting. (Decrypt) (AC-Go support them!)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 73/100 (Up 8 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): Friday FutureCast: Selected odds by Polymarket today: US recession in 2025?- 52% chance. US-China trade deal before June?- 23% chance. Fed Decision in June?- No change-85%. What price will Bitcoin hit in 2025?- $110K-83%, $120K-67%, $130K-48%
Follow us on NOSTR: