New Zealand Inflation Expectations Climb in Q2
A recent Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) survey indicates a projected rise in the nation's near-term inflation over the next two years. Two-year inflation expectations, a key metric for RBNZ policy, increased to 2.53% in Q2 from 2.37% in Q1. Additionally, the survey revealed a jump in one-year price increase forecasts, reaching 3.41% from 2.59% previously.
A recent Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) survey indicates a projected rise in the nation's near-term inflation over the next two years. Two-year inflation expectations, a key metric for RBNZ policy, increased to 2.53% in Q2 from 2.37% in Q1. Additionally, the survey revealed a jump in one-year price increase forecasts, reaching 3.41% from 2.59% previously.
Samsung Strike Threatens South Korea's Economy
Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol warned a potential Samsung Electronics strike poses a significant risk to South Korea's economic growth, exports, and markets. The chipmaking giant and its union failed to agree on a pay deal. Unionized workers plan an 18-day strike beginning May 21.
Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol warned a potential Samsung Electronics strike poses a significant risk to South Korea's economic growth, exports, and markets. The chipmaking giant and its union failed to agree on a pay deal. Unionized workers plan an 18-day strike beginning May 21.
Bhutan Denies Major Bitcoin Reserve Sale
A representative for Druk Holding and Investments (DHI) has refuted claims that Bhutan sold off a significant portion of its national Bitcoin reserve.
According to Arkham Intelligence, the kingdom held approximately 13,000 BTC at its peak, but much was reportedly moved and sold, with only 3121 BTC remaining in a tracked wallet. Despite DHI's denial ("_I don't recall when we last sold Bitcoins_"), the representative declined to comment on fund movements, nor did they deny Arkham's tracked addresses or confirm remaining crypto volumes. Arkham analysts suggest transfers to centralized exchanges like OKX and Galaxy Digital strongly indicate sales.
A representative for Druk Holding and Investments (DHI) has refuted claims that Bhutan sold off a significant portion of its national Bitcoin reserve.
According to Arkham Intelligence, the kingdom held approximately 13,000 BTC at its peak, but much was reportedly moved and sold, with only 3121 BTC remaining in a tracked wallet. Despite DHI's denial ("_I don't recall when we last sold Bitcoins_"), the representative declined to comment on fund movements, nor did they deny Arkham's tracked addresses or confirm remaining crypto volumes. Arkham analysts suggest transfers to centralized exchanges like OKX and Galaxy Digital strongly indicate sales.
Gold Steady as Trump-Xi Talks Loom, Inflation Worries Persist
Gold prices remained flat in Asian trading, holding at $4,691.12 an ounce, as markets awaited a crucial summit between U.S. President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Investors are seeking clarity on trade, the Iran conflict, and global supply chains.
While geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Strait of Hormuz offered some traditional safe-haven support for bullion, significant headwinds emerged. Stronger-than-expected U.S. inflation data, driven by rising energy costs, reinforced expectations of the Federal Reserve maintaining higher interest rates for longer. This, coupled with a surging U.S. Dollar, diminished gold's appeal as a non-yielding asset and made it costlier for international buyers.
Oil prices above $100 a barrel continued to fuel inflation fears. Additionally, India's decision to raise import duties on gold and silver could impact demand in a major consumer market. Silver and platinum saw modest
Gold prices remained flat in Asian trading, holding at $4,691.12 an ounce, as markets awaited a crucial summit between U.S. President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Investors are seeking clarity on trade, the Iran conflict, and global supply chains.
While geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Strait of Hormuz offered some traditional safe-haven support for bullion, significant headwinds emerged. Stronger-than-expected U.S. inflation data, driven by rising energy costs, reinforced expectations of the Federal Reserve maintaining higher interest rates for longer. This, coupled with a surging U.S. Dollar, diminished gold's appeal as a non-yielding asset and made it costlier for international buyers.
Oil prices above $100 a barrel continued to fuel inflation fears. Additionally, India's decision to raise import duties on gold and silver could impact demand in a major consumer market. Silver and platinum saw modest
Ex-BOJ Chief Kuroda: Yen Unlikely to Breach 160/Dollar
Former Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda stated the yen is unlikely to weaken beyond 160 per dollar, citing apparent intervention by authorities. He considers 120-130 as an equilibrium based on Japan's fundamentals, contrasting with the current ~157.80.
Kuroda attributed the yen's downtrend to rising oil import costs post-Ukraine war and the interest rate divergence between Japan and the U.S. He affirmed Japan's economy is in "extremely good shape," with inflation near the 2% target, driven by solid wage gains. The rise in 10-year JGB yields to ~2.58% is natural given the central bank's gradual rate hikes and inflation.
Former Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda stated the yen is unlikely to weaken beyond 160 per dollar, citing apparent intervention by authorities. He considers 120-130 as an equilibrium based on Japan's fundamentals, contrasting with the current ~157.80.
Kuroda attributed the yen's downtrend to rising oil import costs post-Ukraine war and the interest rate divergence between Japan and the U.S. He affirmed Japan's economy is in "extremely good shape," with inflation near the 2% target, driven by solid wage gains. The rise in 10-year JGB yields to ~2.58% is natural given the central bank's gradual rate hikes and inflation.
China's Foreign Exchange Reserves Hit $3.41 Trillion in April
China's foreign exchange reserves climbed to $3.411 trillion last month, surpassing expectations. This figure is up from March's $3.342 trillion and exceeded the $3.36 trillion forecast.
The increase was primarily due to a broad weakening of the U.S. dollar in April. The yuan strengthened 0.83% against the dollar, while the dollar itself declined 1.76% against a basket of major currencies. China holds the world's largest foreign currency stockpile.
China's foreign exchange reserves climbed to $3.411 trillion last month, surpassing expectations. This figure is up from March's $3.342 trillion and exceeded the $3.36 trillion forecast.
The increase was primarily due to a broad weakening of the U.S. dollar in April. The yuan strengthened 0.83% against the dollar, while the dollar itself declined 1.76% against a basket of major currencies. China holds the world's largest foreign currency stockpile.
Bitget Launches IWD Campaign Under Blockchain4Her
Crypto exchange Bitget is rolling out online and offline initiatives for International Women's Day, expanding its __Blockchain4Her__ program to attract women to the blockchain industry.
The campaign centers on the question: "How can mass adoption be achieved without women?" It features a social media video series combating gender bias in Web3, inviting users and leaders to share experiences on inclusive structures. Bitget CEO Gracie Chen stressed recognizing women's impact, especially in finance.
A limited-edition card, co-issued with Bitget Wallet for March 8, will enable Mastercard/Visa payments in over 50 countries (Europe, LatAm, APAC). Offline, the __Lady Forward__ concept continues with workshops, networking, and panels across Southeast Asia, Europe, CIS, and Latin America. __Blockchain4Her__ has previously reached thousands, reducing entry barriers for women in crypto.
Crypto exchange Bitget is rolling out online and offline initiatives for International Women's Day, expanding its __Blockchain4Her__ program to attract women to the blockchain industry.
The campaign centers on the question: "How can mass adoption be achieved without women?" It features a social media video series combating gender bias in Web3, inviting users and leaders to share experiences on inclusive structures. Bitget CEO Gracie Chen stressed recognizing women's impact, especially in finance.
A limited-edition card, co-issued with Bitget Wallet for March 8, will enable Mastercard/Visa payments in over 50 countries (Europe, LatAm, APAC). Offline, the __Lady Forward__ concept continues with workshops, networking, and panels across Southeast Asia, Europe, CIS, and Latin America. __Blockchain4Her__ has previously reached thousands, reducing entry barriers for women in crypto.
SEC Shift Fuels Trump Crypto Speculation
New US guidelines reclassify most crypto as commodities/digital tools, not securities, reducing oversight. Insiders suggest this benefits the Trump family’s crypto ventures, coinciding with the Strategic Crypto Reserve's expansion (200,000 BTC, ETH, SOL). Markets show a pivot to institutional accumulation.
The __TRUMP__ token consolidates above $3.27 ahead of its April 25 Mar-a-Lago gala. This event, offering top holders private access, is seen as a critical liquidity catalyst. A break above $3.80 could target $4.50; failure at $3.00 might redirect capital.
__LiquidChain__ ($LIQUID) addresses Strategic Reserve asset fragmentation. This Layer 3 project unifies Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana into a "Unified Liquidity Layer," aligning with new regulatory exemptions. Attracting smart money, its presale raised $600K+ at $0.0143, offering 1700% staking rewards. It's positioned as "the glue for the next market cycle."
New US guidelines reclassify most crypto as commodities/digital tools, not securities, reducing oversight. Insiders suggest this benefits the Trump family’s crypto ventures, coinciding with the Strategic Crypto Reserve's expansion (200,000 BTC, ETH, SOL). Markets show a pivot to institutional accumulation.
The __TRUMP__ token consolidates above $3.27 ahead of its April 25 Mar-a-Lago gala. This event, offering top holders private access, is seen as a critical liquidity catalyst. A break above $3.80 could target $4.50; failure at $3.00 might redirect capital.
__LiquidChain__ ($LIQUID) addresses Strategic Reserve asset fragmentation. This Layer 3 project unifies Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana into a "Unified Liquidity Layer," aligning with new regulatory exemptions. Attracting smart money, its presale raised $600K+ at $0.0143, offering 1700% staking rewards. It's positioned as "the glue for the next market cycle."
Bioventus Surpasses Q4 Forecasts, 2026 Revenue Guidance Aligns
Bioventus reported robust Q4 results, with adjusted EPS at $0.24, exceeding the $0.20 estimate. Revenue reached $157.9 million, topping the $156.08 million forecast and marking a 2.8% year-over-year increase. Organic revenue surged 10% YoY, driven by strong growth in Pain Treatments and Surgical Solutions.
CEO Rob Claypoole highlighted "strong Q4 performance," portfolio strengthening, and improved financials. Adjusted EBITDA rose 30% to $36.7 million, and cash from operations dramatically increased 97% to $38.0 million.
For fiscal 2026, the company projects revenue of $600-610 million, with its $605 million midpoint slightly __above__ analyst consensus. However, adjusted EPS guidance of $0.73-$0.77 (midpoint $0.75) is slightly __below__ the $0.77 estimate.
Bioventus reported robust Q4 results, with adjusted EPS at $0.24, exceeding the $0.20 estimate. Revenue reached $157.9 million, topping the $156.08 million forecast and marking a 2.8% year-over-year increase. Organic revenue surged 10% YoY, driven by strong growth in Pain Treatments and Surgical Solutions.
CEO Rob Claypoole highlighted "strong Q4 performance," portfolio strengthening, and improved financials. Adjusted EBITDA rose 30% to $36.7 million, and cash from operations dramatically increased 97% to $38.0 million.
For fiscal 2026, the company projects revenue of $600-610 million, with its $605 million midpoint slightly __above__ analyst consensus. However, adjusted EPS guidance of $0.73-$0.77 (midpoint $0.75) is slightly __below__ the $0.77 estimate.
US Agencies to Ditch Anthropic AI
President Trump has ordered all federal agencies to cease using Anthropic AI within six months. "We don't need it, we don't want it, and we won't do business with them anymore!" he stated.
The directive stems from Anthropic's strict ethical policies, which prohibit its Claude model from mass surveillance or autonomous lethal operations. This stance clashed with the Pentagon, despite a prior $200M contract.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously noted the DoD "will not use models that do not allow for waging wars," labeling Anthropic a "supply chain risk" after frustrations grew, including Claude's use in a Maduro capture operation.
Anthropic's CEO affirmed prioritizing democratic values over military cooperation on "mass domestic surveillance" and "fully autonomous weapons."
President Trump has ordered all federal agencies to cease using Anthropic AI within six months. "We don't need it, we don't want it, and we won't do business with them anymore!" he stated.
The directive stems from Anthropic's strict ethical policies, which prohibit its Claude model from mass surveillance or autonomous lethal operations. This stance clashed with the Pentagon, despite a prior $200M contract.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously noted the DoD "will not use models that do not allow for waging wars," labeling Anthropic a "supply chain risk" after frustrations grew, including Claude's use in a Maduro capture operation.
Anthropic's CEO affirmed prioritizing democratic values over military cooperation on "mass domestic surveillance" and "fully autonomous weapons."
DeepSeek AI Forecasts Explosive Crypto Gains by 2026
China's DeepSeek AI projects significant price surges for XRP, Bitcoin, and Ethereum amidst market uncertainty, citing improving technicals and a clearer regulatory environment.
XRP is forecast for a nearly 6x rise to ~$8.00, propelled by Ripple's global payment strategy, XRPL efficiency, and potential institutional ETFs.
Bitcoin eyes $260,000, valued as digital gold and an inflation hedge, influenced by geopolitical factors and potential US strategic reserves.
Ethereum, the DeFi backbone, could hit $7,500 if it breaks $5,000, leveraging strong security, RWA tokenization, and regulatory clarity.
China's DeepSeek AI projects significant price surges for XRP, Bitcoin, and Ethereum amidst market uncertainty, citing improving technicals and a clearer regulatory environment.
XRP is forecast for a nearly 6x rise to ~$8.00, propelled by Ripple's global payment strategy, XRPL efficiency, and potential institutional ETFs.
Bitcoin eyes $260,000, valued as digital gold and an inflation hedge, influenced by geopolitical factors and potential US strategic reserves.
Ethereum, the DeFi backbone, could hit $7,500 if it breaks $5,000, leveraging strong security, RWA tokenization, and regulatory clarity.
China's Producer Inflation Returns After Three Years
China's factory-gate prices saw their first annual increase in over three years in March, ending a 41-month decline. The Producer Price Index (PPI) rose 0.5% year-on-year, exceeding expectations. This surge is linked to rising import costs, partly due to the Middle East crisis.
Meanwhile, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 1% year-on-year, slower than February's 1.3% and below forecasts. Monthly CPI also fell 0.7%, missing expectations.
China's factory-gate prices saw their first annual increase in over three years in March, ending a 41-month decline. The Producer Price Index (PPI) rose 0.5% year-on-year, exceeding expectations. This surge is linked to rising import costs, partly due to the Middle East crisis.
Meanwhile, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 1% year-on-year, slower than February's 1.3% and below forecasts. Monthly CPI also fell 0.7%, missing expectations.
May Crypto Calendar: Bitcoin Pizza Day & Western Union Stablecoin Debut
May promises a busy crypto calendar. Key events to watch:
May 3: Sui mainnet celebrates its anniversary.
May 8-10: ETHPrague conference in Prague.
May 12: US CPI and inflation data release.
May 13: Base mainnet's Azul update launches.
May 22: It's __Bitcoin Pizza Day__.
May 26: Polkadot project marks its anniversary.
May 29: CME begins 24/7 crypto futures & options trading.
This month also sees Western Union's USDPT stablecoin debut on Solana.
May promises a busy crypto calendar. Key events to watch:
May 3: Sui mainnet celebrates its anniversary.
May 8-10: ETHPrague conference in Prague.
May 12: US CPI and inflation data release.
May 13: Base mainnet's Azul update launches.
May 22: It's __Bitcoin Pizza Day__.
May 26: Polkadot project marks its anniversary.
May 29: CME begins 24/7 crypto futures & options trading.
This month also sees Western Union's USDPT stablecoin debut on Solana.
XRP: Viral Video Fuels Bullish Outlook Amid ETF Hopes
XRP is rallying, with a viral video by crypto commentator John Squire suggesting "game over" for latecomers, predicting structural scarcity as institutional utility for global payments activates. XRP is seen as the "internet of value."
Ripple’s ecosystem strengthens this narrative, with strong fund inflows ($119.6M) and seven spot XRP ETFs awaiting SEC review by Q2 2026.
Despite consolidating around $1.45, XRP shows demand with $2.6B daily volume. Resistance at $1.50 is key; a breakout could occur if support holds and ETFs are approved.
For outsized gains, some favor early-cycle, lower-cap assets. __Maxi Doge ($MAXI)__, an Ethereum meme token, has raised $4.7M in presale, offering 60% APY staking, attracting notable interest for its "1000x leverage mindset."
XRP is rallying, with a viral video by crypto commentator John Squire suggesting "game over" for latecomers, predicting structural scarcity as institutional utility for global payments activates. XRP is seen as the "internet of value."
Ripple’s ecosystem strengthens this narrative, with strong fund inflows ($119.6M) and seven spot XRP ETFs awaiting SEC review by Q2 2026.
Despite consolidating around $1.45, XRP shows demand with $2.6B daily volume. Resistance at $1.50 is key; a breakout could occur if support holds and ETFs are approved.
For outsized gains, some favor early-cycle, lower-cap assets. __Maxi Doge ($MAXI)__, an Ethereum meme token, has raised $4.7M in presale, offering 60% APY staking, attracting notable interest for its "1000x leverage mindset."
BofA Turns Bullish on Brazil Real, Advises Selling EUR/BRL
Bank of America is increasingly optimistic about the Brazilian real's outlook, opening a short position on EUR/BRL at 5.80. This bullish stance is underpinned by significantly improved terms of trade, fueled by a commodity price shock that has boosted exports.
Brazil's central bank's cautious approach has also led to rising real interest rates, now among the highest in emerging markets. Despite a recent 13% rally, the BRL is still estimated to be about 7% undervalued. Strong external surpluses and an economy operating above potential, with tight labor markets, make a firmer currency macro-consistent with current conditions.
Bank of America is increasingly optimistic about the Brazilian real's outlook, opening a short position on EUR/BRL at 5.80. This bullish stance is underpinned by significantly improved terms of trade, fueled by a commodity price shock that has boosted exports.
Brazil's central bank's cautious approach has also led to rising real interest rates, now among the highest in emerging markets. Despite a recent 13% rally, the BRL is still estimated to be about 7% undervalued. Strong external surpluses and an economy operating above potential, with tight labor markets, make a firmer currency macro-consistent with current conditions.
Altcoin Crash Exceeds Post-FTX Lows
Nearly 38% of altcoins are approaching all-time lows, a state analyst Darkfost deems worse than the post-FTX collapse period. He attributes this to risk-averse investors diverting liquidity from crypto to traditional markets, causing altcoins to lose significant market share.
This decline is mirrored by plummeting interest. Social mentions of altcoins hit a two-year low, while global Google searches reached a yearly anti-record of 4/100. Jimmy Xue of Axis explains this as a "liquidity outflow," where scarce capital makes even minor sentiment shifts trigger mass sell-offs. He emphasizes altcoins lack the institutional support and "digital gold" status enjoyed by Bitcoin.
Despite the capital drain, Darkfost maintains optimism, viewing such severe market conditions as prime opportunities for investment.
Nearly 38% of altcoins are approaching all-time lows, a state analyst Darkfost deems worse than the post-FTX collapse period. He attributes this to risk-averse investors diverting liquidity from crypto to traditional markets, causing altcoins to lose significant market share.
This decline is mirrored by plummeting interest. Social mentions of altcoins hit a two-year low, while global Google searches reached a yearly anti-record of 4/100. Jimmy Xue of Axis explains this as a "liquidity outflow," where scarce capital makes even minor sentiment shifts trigger mass sell-offs. He emphasizes altcoins lack the institutional support and "digital gold" status enjoyed by Bitcoin.
Despite the capital drain, Darkfost maintains optimism, viewing such severe market conditions as prime opportunities for investment.
Analyst Projects XRP to $27 Following Seven-Year Correction
XRP, currently around $1.3, is drawing bold predictions of a surge to $27 from analysts. This forecast is rooted in technical frameworks, including Elliott Wave theory, which suggests XRP has concluded a lengthy seven-year correction.
The asset is positioned to enter its "third wave," typically the most powerful phase of a crypto cycle. Fibonacci extensions point to targets between $18 and $27.
Technical indicators show XRP consolidating, with RSI at 45 and MACD/Stochastic signaling early bullish shifts, implying accumulation. Key resistance lies at $2 to $2.70, with $3.00 confirming a breakout. While $27 would mean a colossal market cap, a short-term move to $2.4, potentially followed by a pullback to $1.55, is considered a more immediate, plausible scenario.
XRP, currently around $1.3, is drawing bold predictions of a surge to $27 from analysts. This forecast is rooted in technical frameworks, including Elliott Wave theory, which suggests XRP has concluded a lengthy seven-year correction.
The asset is positioned to enter its "third wave," typically the most powerful phase of a crypto cycle. Fibonacci extensions point to targets between $18 and $27.
Technical indicators show XRP consolidating, with RSI at 45 and MACD/Stochastic signaling early bullish shifts, implying accumulation. Key resistance lies at $2 to $2.70, with $3.00 confirming a breakout. While $27 would mean a colossal market cap, a short-term move to $2.4, potentially followed by a pullback to $1.55, is considered a more immediate, plausible scenario.
European Wax Center Misses Q1 Earnings and Revenue Forecasts
European Wax Center (EWCZ) reported a Q1 EPS of $-0.02, falling $0.10 short of the $0.08 analyst estimate. Quarterly revenue also missed expectations, coming in at $45.1 million against a consensus of $46.58 million.
The company's stock closed at $5.74. While it has gained 41.73% in the past three months, it is down 2.38% over the last year. Recent analyst sentiment shows 5 negative EPS revisions in the last 90 days. Despite these results, EWCZ's financial health is rated as "good performance."
European Wax Center (EWCZ) reported a Q1 EPS of $-0.02, falling $0.10 short of the $0.08 analyst estimate. Quarterly revenue also missed expectations, coming in at $45.1 million against a consensus of $46.58 million.
The company's stock closed at $5.74. While it has gained 41.73% in the past three months, it is down 2.38% over the last year. Recent analyst sentiment shows 5 negative EPS revisions in the last 90 days. Despite these results, EWCZ's financial health is rated as "good performance."
Institutions Liquidate ~25,000 BTC in Spot ETFs Amid Market Correction
Major investors sold shares equivalent to ~25,000 BTC from spot Bitcoin ETFs in Q4 last year, per Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart. Hedge funds and investment advisors were key sellers, with Brevan Howard alone liquidating over 17,000 BTC worth. This sell-off coincided with a crypto market downturn, as Bitcoin fell from above $120,000 to under $63,000.
Despite these significant Q4 sales, spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded a net inflow of $257.71M on February 24, led by Fidelity's FBTC. In other news, analyst nino points to the Coinbase Premium's failure to sustain above zero as a potential trigger for Bitcoin's recent price slides.
Major investors sold shares equivalent to ~25,000 BTC from spot Bitcoin ETFs in Q4 last year, per Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart. Hedge funds and investment advisors were key sellers, with Brevan Howard alone liquidating over 17,000 BTC worth. This sell-off coincided with a crypto market downturn, as Bitcoin fell from above $120,000 to under $63,000.
Despite these significant Q4 sales, spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded a net inflow of $257.71M on February 24, led by Fidelity's FBTC. In other news, analyst nino points to the Coinbase Premium's failure to sustain above zero as a potential trigger for Bitcoin's recent price slides.
XRP: Wall Street's Growing Interest
Major financial players like Mastercard, BlackRock, and Franklin Templeton are increasingly focusing on Ripple. The XRP Ledger is emerging as a global financial powerhouse, with DeFi specialists calling it the "middleware" for transparent, cross-asset payments. RWA activity on XRPL has surged 875%, with tokenized value nearing $2.5 billion, signaling accelerating institutional validation.
XRP consolidates above $1.4, challenging resistance. A confirmed move past $1.53 could unlock targets like $2.69, or even $3-$25 if banks leverage it for settlement. Ripple's CEO highlights a $13 trillion payments opportunity. While long-term projections envision $27 by 2030 with full banking adoption, current price action suggests patience amidst stacked resistances.
Major financial players like Mastercard, BlackRock, and Franklin Templeton are increasingly focusing on Ripple. The XRP Ledger is emerging as a global financial powerhouse, with DeFi specialists calling it the "middleware" for transparent, cross-asset payments. RWA activity on XRPL has surged 875%, with tokenized value nearing $2.5 billion, signaling accelerating institutional validation.
XRP consolidates above $1.4, challenging resistance. A confirmed move past $1.53 could unlock targets like $2.69, or even $3-$25 if banks leverage it for settlement. Ripple's CEO highlights a $13 trillion payments opportunity. While long-term projections envision $27 by 2030 with full banking adoption, current price action suggests patience amidst stacked resistances.