The US Senate on Thursday unanimously approved a resolution banning its members and staff, who are often exposed to sensitive information, from using prediction markets.

The resolution, passed by unanimous consent, changed the Senate’s rules and took immediate effect. 

“Engaging in any way in a prediction market or trying to place bets where we might have inside information deteriorates the confidence that our constituents have in us,” Republican Senator Bernie Moreno, who introduced the resolution, said on the Senate floor.

“By changing the standing rules of the Senate, what we’re doing is allowing our constituents to know, once and for all, that no member of the United States Senate, no member of the staff of the United States Senate, can ever use that inside information as a way to monetize this job whatsoever,” he added.

Source: Bernie Moreno

The resolution comes after a special forces soldier involved in the plan to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was charged last week, on April 23, with using classified information to make bets on Polymarket, as lawmakers also air concerns over well-timed bets on the Iran war. He has pleaded not guilty. 

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that “of all the issues we debate in Washington, this falls clearly in the category of a ‘no-brainer.’”

“We must never allow Congress to turn into a casino where members representing the public can gamble on wars, or economic crises, or elections,” he said.

Related: Insider trading backlash forces Polymarket to step up surveillance

“We should go further; this is a good start, but not enough,” Schumer said. “The administration and its employees must apply these very same rules too, particularly this administration, which shows such a troubling affinity to corruption and self-dealing.”

Republican Representative Ashley Hinson posted to X that she would introduce a similar resolution to ban the use of prediction markets in the House.

Polymarket posted on X that it fully supported the Senate resolution and its terms of service “already prohibit such conduct, but codifying this into law is a step forward for the industry.”

Tarek Mansour, co-founder and CEO of rival prediction market platform Kalshi, also celebrated the resolution in a post on X, adding that it “already proactively blocks members of Congress and enforces against insider trading.”

Magazine: How to fix suspected insider trading on Polymarket and Kalshi

Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.

Spain appears to be the strongest retail market for Circle’s euro-pegged stablecoin EURC on the Brighty platform, with Brighty data indicating a clear regional concentration in 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. In that period, Spanish activity accounted for roughly 36% of EURC transactions and about 25% of EURC-related volume, a signal that euro-stablecoin usage for everyday payments is taking hold in select European markets. According to Brighty data reviewed by Cointelegraph, this pattern positions Spain as a leading early adopter in euro-stablecoin retail usage within the broader MiCA-era regulatory landscape.

“For Spanish users, EURC functions essentially as a standard euro on a card with no exchange rate friction when transacting against USDC,” Brighty co-founder Nick Denisenko said. The observation underscores how EURC can simplify euro-denominated payments for retail customers, particularly when paired with card-based spending and stablecoin yield features.

Cointelegraph’s review of Brighty’s dataset also highlights a broader market dynamic: euro tokens remain a minority segment relative to USD-pegged stablecoins like Tether’s USDt and Circle’s USDC, even as policymakers push to expand the euro’s role in crypto markets. The data offer an early glimpse into how euro stablecoins may be used in European retail payments as regulatory frameworks like MiCA come into force.

Key takeaways

• Spain accounted for about 36% of EURC transactions and 25% of EURC volume in 2025 through the first quarter of 2026, signaling a retail-oriented adoption pattern.
• EURC is the largest euro-pegged stablecoin by market share, representing around 49% of the euro-stablecoin market cap (approximately $887 million) according to CoinGecko.
• Spain shows the clearest retail usage of EURC with low average transaction sizes—about 49 euros per payment—compared with other European markets that display more mix between retail and higher-value transfers.
• Italy ranks second in EURC activity (about 15.5% of transactions and 18% of volume), followed by Germany (roughly 13% of transactions and 19% of volume), while France is notable for higher average transactions (~€171).
• Denisenko argues that Spain’s combination of early adoption, retail-focused usage, and broad institutional awareness makes it the clearest early hub for euro-stablecoin activity under MiCA.

Spain as a retail EURC hub

Data from Brighty shows Spain leading EURC activity within the platform’s footprint, with a clear tilt toward everyday, low-value transactions. The typical EURC payment in Spain is around €49, placing the euro-stablecoin usage squarely in the realm of consumer purchases, P2P transfers, and other retail payments rather than large-scale transfers or institutional settlements.

Denisenko notes that Spanish users have been among the earliest adopters of EURC on Brighty and have shown robust engagement with yield features tied to stablecoins. This combination—early adoption, retail-friendly transaction sizes, and active use of yield mechanics—helps explain why Spain stands out in Brighty’s euro-stablecoin analytics.

From a regulatory and market-structure perspective, the Spanish pattern aligns with a broader intention to normalize euro-stablecoin usage within a MiCA-ready environment. The MiCA framework seeks to bring regulatory clarity to crypto-asset service providers and issuers of asset-backed tokens in the European Union, potentially smoothing the path for banks and payments ecosystems to integrate euro-stablecoins into everyday retail flows.

Cross-country usage patterns and value segmentation

Italy ranks second in Brighty’s EURC metrics, accounting for about 15.5% of EURC transactions and 18% of EURC volume. The data imply a mix of retail and higher-value use cases in Italy, rather than a narrow retail-only pattern. Germany follows with roughly 13% of transactions and 19% of volume, where the average EURC payment size stands at about €105 ($123).

France stands out for its comparatively higher average transaction size of roughly €171 ($186) per EURC payment, indicating a greater share of larger transfers or higher-value payments within the country’s EURC activity. This contrast suggests a diversification of EURC use cases across Europe, from everyday consumer purchases to larger-value transfers that may involve corporate or high-net-worth clients.

Despite these country-specific dynamics, euro-stablecoins in Europe remain a relatively small slice of the broader stablecoin market when viewed against USD-pegged tokens. The euro-stablecoin segment’s total market capitalization sits well below the USD-backed tier, a gap that policymakers and market participants have been monitoring as MiCA implementation progresses and as banks explore euro-stablecoin integrations.

Regulatory and institutional implications for euro-stablecoins in Europe

The Spain-centric retail pattern observed on Brighty has notable implications for compliance, licensing, and cross-border operations within the European Union. Under MiCA, euro-stablecoins face a regulated environment designed to standardize issuance, disclosures, and safeguarding of user funds, with potential licensing prerequisites for issuers and service providers operating across member states. Spain’s apparent readiness—both from consumer familiarity with crypto and from the apparent willingness of local banks to engage with euro-stablecoins—could serve as a case study in how MiCA compliance and banking integration might unfold in practice.

Brighty’s experience in Spain, including interactions with major Spanish banks where staff demonstrate a high level of competence, suggests that institutional readiness may accelerate the deployment of euro-stablecoin-based payments and yield features for retail users. This aligns with a broader European push to expand the euro’s role in digital finance while maintaining robust regulatory oversight and consumer protections.

Where EURC and other euro-stablecoins fit within the MiCA framework remains a key question for operators, banks, and policymakers. The ongoing evolution of licensing regimes, cross-border oversight, and interoperability with fiat rails will shape how euro-stablecoins scale in retail channels. The comparative patterns across Italy, Germany, and France provide a preliminary map of how different market segments may respond to MiCA’s regulatory contours, with Spain potentially serving as an early operational benchmark for compliance-ready, retail-focused euro-stablecoin activity.

Closing perspective

The Brighty dataset paints a valuable early picture: Spain stands out as the clearest retail-focused hub for EURC within Europe, reflecting a combination of consumer familiarity, institutional readiness, and a regulatory environment moving toward MiCA-aligned clarity. As MiCA-backed euro-stablecoins continue to gain traction, observers should monitor how cross-border EU usage develops, how banks expand euro-stablecoin integrations, and how transaction sizes and channel mix evolve beyond Spain’s initial lead. The coming quarters will reveal whether Spain’s early lead translates into broader regional patterns or remains a selective, country-specific anomaly shaped by local financial ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

• Nvidia shares declined over 4% Thursday even as major tech companies announced significant AI infrastructure spending hikes
• Google revealed intentions to commercialize its proprietary TPU chips for external clients, intensifying competitive pressures
• Amazon highlighted accelerating growth in its proprietary chip division
• Top four hyperscalers collectively plan AI infrastructure investments reaching $725 billion in 2026
• Nvidia’s B300 server pricing in China has surged to approximately $1 million following stricter smuggling enforcement

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Nvidia shares tumbled over 4% Thursday, defying the broader narrative of explosive AI infrastructure spending commitments from technology’s biggest players. The decline signals mounting investor anxiety about a critical question: can Nvidia maintain its market leadership as its largest clients develop competing chip solutions?

NVIDIA Corporation, NVDA

The downturn followed earnings reports from Meta, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Amazon, each announcing elevated capital expenditure forecasts for 2026. Meta increased its projection by $10 billion, targeting a range of $125 billion to $145 billion. Alphabet boosted its guidance by $5 billion, potentially reaching $190 billion. Microsoft indicated its fourth-quarter capital spending alone would exceed $40 billion.

Combined, these four cloud computing giants are projected to deploy up to $725 billion on AI infrastructure throughout the year. With Nvidia commanding approximately 90% of the AI accelerator market, this investment wave should theoretically benefit the semiconductor manufacturer substantially.

Yet market sentiment doesn’t always align with positive fundamentals.

Alphabet’s TPU Commercialization Triggers Market Concerns

Investor apprehension stemmed primarily from Alphabet’s strategic announcement. The company disclosed plans to market its proprietary Tensor Processing Units — TPUs — to external clients who can deploy them within their own infrastructure environments.

Historically, TPUs functioned exclusively within Google‘s ecosystem. By commercializing these chips, Alphabet positions them as a viable, albeit specialized, competitor to Nvidia’s GPU offerings. While TPUs typically lack the versatility of Nvidia’s solutions, they deliver superior cost efficiency for specific artificial intelligence applications.

Amazon similarly emphasized expansion in its proprietary chip initiatives during its quarterly earnings presentation. While both organizations remain significant Nvidia clients, the strategic trajectory is unmistakable.

Nvidia has historically downplayed threats from custom chip development, emphasizing the superior versatility its GPUs provide for AI application developers. However, maintaining this position without encountering market skepticism is becoming increasingly challenging.

Chinese Market Sees B300 Server Prices Approach $1 Million Mark

On supply dynamics, pricing for Nvidia’s advanced B300 server systems in China has escalated to approximately 7 million yuan, representing a sharp increase from roughly 4 million yuan in late 2024. This translates to nearly $1 million per system.

Intensified enforcement against semiconductor smuggling operations in China — which previously sustained a parallel market for export-restricted hardware — has substantially constrained available supply. The B300 represents one of Nvidia’s most sophisticated AI server configurations and remains subject to US export restrictions in the Chinese market.

Meanwhile, Thursday’s trading session delivered mixed results across the semiconductor industry. Qualcomm surged 9% following announcements of expanded data center initiatives. Memory sector players Sandisk, Western Digital, and Seagate also posted gains after Microsoft and Meta highlighted increasing expenditures for storage and memory infrastructure.

Regarding investment activity, Nvidia’s venture division NVentures contributed to a $50 million extension of Swedish AI legal technology company Legora’s Series D funding round, establishing a $5.6 billion valuation and bringing aggregate capital raised to $600 million.

Nvidia shares were trading near $200.84 Thursday afternoon, representing an approximate $8.41 decline for the session.

TRM Labs says North Korea-linked hackers have stolen about $577m in 2026 so far—76% of all crypto hack losses—driven by massive hits on KelpDAO and Drift Protocol.

A new report from blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs finds that organizations linked to North Korea were responsible for roughly 76% of all global cryptocurrency hacking losses in the first four months of 2026, stealing an estimated $577 million. The report, cited by The Block, warns that North Korean operations have become the dominant source of on-chain theft as state-aligned groups refine their tactics against exchanges, DeFi protocols, and cross-chain infrastructure.

According to the analysis, North Korea’s share of global crypto theft has climbed relentlessly over the past five years: 22% in 2022, 37% in 2023, 39% in 2024, 64% in 2025, and 76% so far in 2026, pushing cumulative illicit profits since 2017 above $6 billion. TRM Labs ties this growth to increasingly sophisticated tooling, better laundering pipelines, and a clear state incentive to bypass traditional sanctions via digital assets.

The report highlights two April incidents as the primary drivers of 2026 losses to date: a roughly $292 million exploit targeting KelpDAO and a separate $285 million theft from Drift Protocol. Together, these two attacks alone account for nearly the entire $577 million total so far this year and about 3% of all recorded hacking incidents in the same period, suggesting that a small number of high-impact exploits continue to dominate loss statistics.

For crypto markets, the concentration of large-scale thefts in DeFi and restaking protocols underscores the structural risk in smart contract and bridge design. Each $200 million–plus drain not only hits token prices for the affected projects, but also tightens liquidity across interconnected ecosystems as market makers, lenders, and LPs de-risk exposure.

This trend also feeds into regulatory and institutional responses. As more of the loss profile is attributed to a single sanctioned state, global authorities will likely intensify pressure on centralized exchanges, OTC desks, and mixers to block known laundering channels, raising compliance costs for the entire industry. For traders in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other majors, repeated headlines of nine-figure hacks tied to North Korea translate into higher perceived tail risk, wider risk premia, and occasional systemic bouts of deleveraging when large exploits force on-chain liquidations.

Overall, TRM Labs’ findings paint a picture of a crypto market where protocol innovation and capital inflows continue, but where the “crypto war chest” of a sanctioned state is now a central macro variable, not a side story—one that will increasingly shape both policy and risk pricing across digital assets.

The US Senate moved to tighten its stance on inside information and financial speculation on prediction markets, unanimously approving a resolution that bars members and staff from participating in such markets. The rule change—made by unanimous consent and effective immediately—aims to preserve public trust by preventing potential monetization of sensitive information.

Engaging in any way in a prediction market or trying to place bets where we might have inside information deteriorates the confidence that our constituents have in us.

The measure was introduced by Republican Senator Bernie Moreno, who has framed the reform as a straightforward step to ensure that lawmakers and their aides cannot leverage privileged information for personal gain. He stated on the Senate floor that the rule change will make clear to constituents that no member of the United States Senate or Senate staff can monetize insider information through prediction markets.

Source: Bernie Moreno

The resolution arrives amid heightened scrutiny of prediction-market activity linked to political and national security matters. In a separate but related development, a special forces soldier was charged on April 23 with using classified information to place bets on Polymarket, a case that has fed lawmakers’ concerns about insider trading risk in such platforms. The defendant has pleaded not guilty.

During the floor debate, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer endorsed the measure as a straightforward safeguard against conflicts of interest. He argued that Congress must not resemble a casino where lawmakers could gamble on wars, economic crises, or elections, and urged further steps beyond the initial rule change.

Related: Insider trading backlash forces Polymarket to step up surveillance

Schumer also indicated that broader measures should extend to the administration and its employees, signaling that the executive branch may come under similar scrutiny to ensure consistent ethics standards across government activity.

Republican Representative Ashley Hinson indicated that she will introduce a counterpart resolution in the House to prohibit House members from using prediction markets, signaling a potential expansion of the policy beyond the Senate.

Reaction from the prediction-market ecosystem was swift. Polymarket publicly supported the Senate resolution and noted that its terms of service already prohibit such conduct, describing codification as a positive development for the industry. Kalshi, a direct competitor, welcomed the move as well, with its co-founder noting that the platform already blocks congressional participation and enforces against insider trading.

These developments are part of a broader pattern of regulatory and industry focus on governance, compliance, and market integrity in crypto-adjacent spaces. Cointelegraph’s coverage has highlighted ongoing debates around insider betting detection and the governance of prediction-market platforms, underscoring the legal and regulatory implications for operators, financial institutions, and public institutions alike.

According to Cointelegraph, the heightened attention to insider trading in prediction markets dovetails with broader regulatory and enforcement efforts across the sector, including the need for robust AML/KYC frameworks, licensing considerations, and cross-border policy alignment. The incident and ensuing legislative response illuminate how public institutions are balancing innovation with governance and accountability in a rapidly evolving market structure.

Key takeaways

• The Senate unanimously approved a resolution that bans members and staff from using prediction markets, with the rule change taking effect immediately.
• The action seeks to prevent potential monetization of inside information and to preserve public trust in governmental institutions.
• There is expectation of broader discussion, with a House counterpart already anticipated to pursue a similar prohibition.
• Industry actors have publicly welcomed codification, asserting existing internal controls and surveillance mechanisms align with the new policy.
• The episode underscores ongoing regulatory scrutiny of prediction markets and related crypto-enabled trading from multiple authorities and jurisdictions.

Unanimous reform and immediate effect

The resolution’s passage by unanimous consent marks a clear stance from lawmakers that insider information must not be monetized through prediction-market channels. By amending the standing rules of the Senate, the chamber signaled an approach that emphasizes ethical governance and transparency in legislative operations. The immediate effect removes any potential window for noncompliance, reducing the likelihood of later procedural disputes over timing or enforcement.

Insider information, cases, and market surveillance

The drive for reform follows public concern over cases where insiders may have exploited privileged information. The reported charge against a special forces soldier—linked to bets on Polymarket—illustrates real-world risk vectors that policymakers fear could erode public confidence in government institutions and in market protocols. While the defendant has pleaded not guilty, the incident has intensified calls for clear rules and rigorous enforcement to deter insider trading in prediction markets.

Regulatory and industry implications for crypto markets

From a policy and compliance perspective, the Senate action reinforces the imperative for rigorous governance frameworks around crypto-enabled markets and related services. Although MiCA governs the European Union, the move aligns with a global trend toward stricter oversight of market integrity, disclosure obligations, and conflict-of-interest protections. For U.S. and global financial institutions, this raises considerations for internal risk controls, staff training, and cross-border regulatory expectations that could influence licensing, reporting, and supervisory priorities. The episode also highlights the importance of clear enforcement signals to deter insider trading and to maintain a level playing field for market participants, including traditional exchanges and crypto-native platforms.

Industry reaction and potential policy spillovers

Industry responses have framed the Senate action as a constructive step that formalizes existing best practices while reducing ambiguity for participants. Polymarket welcomed the codification, noting that their platform already prohibited such conduct and implied that formalizing the ban into law strengthens industry standards. Kalshi’s leadership echoed a similar sentiment, emphasizing proactive compliance measures and the removal of insider-trading risk from the regulatory horizon. The prospect of a House counterpart suggests that policy momentum could extend beyond the Senate, potentially shaping a broader regulatory baseline for prediction markets and similar platforms.

As policymakers weigh additional safeguards, observers will monitor how enforcement indicators evolve—whether through targeted investigations, licensing prerequisites for operators, or enhanced cross-agency coordination among financial regulators, national security authorities, and anti-corruption units. The developing narrative may influence how institutions structure compliance programs, monitor for improper information flows, and implement governance protocols that withstand scrutiny in both domestic and international contexts.

Closing perspective: The Senate’s action formalizes a boundary between public service and speculative activity tied to privileged information, signaling that policy makers view prediction markets as a space where integrity must be safeguarded to protect democratic legitimacy and market stability.

Key takeaways:

• Spot Bitcoin ETFs saw $490 million in net outflows over three days, signaling a recent dip in institutional demand.
• Rising inflation is eroding real yields on fixed income, likely fueling long-term demand for scarce assets like BTC.

Bitcoin (BTC) faced three consecutive days of outflows from US-listed spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The outflows coincided with a failed attempt to reclaim $78,000. Traders fear more downside, but heightened US inflation will likely act as a catalyst for further bullish momentum.

US-listed Bitcoin spot ETFs daily net flows, USD. Source: SoSoValue

The US-listed spot Bitcoin ETFs saw $490 million net outflows between Monday and Wednesday, reversing the trend from the prior two weeks, which indicates a decline in institutional demand. Still, a longer-term perspective shows $3.3 billion net inflows since March.

S&P 500 futures (left) vs. Bitcoin/USD (right). Source: TradingView

Part of the lack of confidence among traders can be attributed to the 14% year-to-date decline in Bitcoin’s price, while the S&P 500 soared to an all-time high. However, the tech sector came under scrutiny as quarterly earnings releases failed to impress investors. Meta (META US) faced a 9% correction on Thursday, while Microsoft (MSFT US) shares dropped 4%.

Brent crude oil (left) vs. US 5-year Treasury yield (right). Source: TradingView

Since the war in Iran started in late February, oil prices have been a major driver for risk appetite. The latest Brent crude oil rally to $126 coincided with yields on the US 5-year Treasuries jumping to 4.02%, up from 3.51% two months prior. Traders demanded higher yields on government-backed bonds amid upward pressure on inflation, triggering risk-off sentiment.

Higher inflation favors Bitcoin’s bullish momentum

Bitcoin’s lack of bullish momentum near $78,000 can also be pinned to worsening economic conditions. The US Commerce Department reported that gross domestic product grew at a 2% seasonally adjusted annualized rate in the first quarter, slightly below the 2.3% rate economists projected, according to CNN.

Related: Most crypto investors believe Bitcoin is undervalued–Coinbase survey

Strategy (MSTR US) latest Bitcoin acquisitions. Source: Strategy

Strategy, the company led by Executive Chairman Michael Saylor, announced the acquisition of 56,235 BTC in the first four weeks of April, driving its average cost to $75,537. Traders fear that the Bitcoin price could suffer if the Strategy accumulation pace does not hold up, even if only temporarily.

US President Donald Trump’s family’s activities in the cryptocurrency market have also hurt the industry’s appeal. Three US Senators demanded an inquiry into Trump and his family’s profits from their cryptocurrency ventures.

The risks of higher inflation and lower economic growth are unlikely to dissipate in the near term, but the mere three-day sequence of net outflows from Bitcoin ETFs should not be a source of concern. Ultimately, reduced returns on fixed income, when adjusted for inflation, will likely drive demand for scarce alternative assets. Thus, the Bitcoin path to $80,000 remains intact.

This article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice or recommendations. All investments and trades carry risk; readers are encouraged to conduct independent research.

TLDR

• Gemini secured approval from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission for a derivatives clearinghouse license.
• The license allows Gemini to clear and settle trades internally without relying on external providers.
• Gemini aims to expand into the prediction market sector and compete with platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket.
• The company plans to offer a full trading ecosystem including futures, options, and event-based contracts.
• Gemini shares increased by about 7% following the announcement of the approval.

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Gemini secured regulatory approval to expand its trading operations into U.S. derivatives and prediction markets. The move allows the exchange to handle trade clearing internally and scale new products faster. The announcement also pushed Gemini shares up by about 7%.

Gemini enters prediction market race with new license

Gemini received approval from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission for a derivatives clearinghouse license. This license allows the firm to clear and settle trades without external providers.

The approval strengthens Gemini’s control over its trading infrastructure and supports its expansion plans. The company aims to compete directly with established platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket.

Gemini stated that the license supports its strategy to build a full-service trading platform. The company plans to integrate event-based contracts, futures, and options within one system.

Cameron Winklevoss said, “Today marks a major milestone in Gemini’s marketplace expansion.” He added that the firm is working toward building a financial services “super app.”

Gemini prediction market push aligns with rising demand

Prediction markets recorded strong growth, with trading volume rising over 300% in 2025 to $63.5 billion. This growth has attracted both crypto platforms and traditional financial firms.

Hyperliquid, a decentralized derivatives platform, is preparing to compete in the same sector. At the same time, asset managers are developing exchange-traded funds linked to prediction markets.

Roundhill Investments plans to launch the first U.S. ETFs tied to prediction markets on May 5. Two other asset managers are also preparing similar financial products.

Gemini had already launched a prediction marketplace through its affiliate Gemini Titan in December 2025. That platform received a designated contract market authorization from the CFTC.

U.S. focus drives Gemini restructuring and expansion

Gemini shifted its operational focus to the United States earlier this year. The company exited markets in the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Australia.

This restructuring included a workforce reduction of about 25% across affected regions. The company stated that the U.S. offers stronger capital markets for its long-term plans.

The Winklevoss founders said, “America has the world’s greatest capital markets.” They added that their strategy centers on growth within the U.S. market.

With both DCM and DCO licenses, Gemini can now offer a complete trading ecosystem. The company confirmed plans to expand into crypto futures, options, and perpetual contracts for U.S. users.

SaintQuant expands AI trading adoption with automated strategies and 150,000+ global users.

Bought Bitcoin for the first time. The wallet is set up. What comes next?

For most people, the next step is finding the best crypto app in 2026, one that handles trading, storage, automation, and passive income in a single place. That’s easier said than done. The market is flooded with apps that all look great on paper but fall apart the moment somebody tries to use them.

The problem isn’t just picking the wrong app. It’s picking the wrong type of app for what is actually needed. A day trader has completely different requirements from someone who wants to set up an automated crypto trading bot and let it run. Both deserve a platform built for them — not a one-size-fits-all solution that does everything adequately and nothing brilliantly.

In this guide, we’ve reviewed and ranked the 8 best crypto apps of 2026 across five categories: automated AI trading, exchange trading, wallet storage, crypto analytics, and passive earning. Whether someone is a complete beginner looking for the best crypto app to make money with no experience, or an intermediate trader ready to upgrade to automation, they’ll find a clear recommendation here.

Quick answer for scanners: Looking for the best automated crypto trading app in 2026 that genuinely works without having to watch charts all day? SaintQuant is #1 on this list — continue reading to know why.

The 8 best crypto apps ranked

1. SaintQuant — Best AI-Automated Crypto Trading App for Passive Income in 2026
2. MEXC — Best for Trading Thousands of Crypto Pairs at Low Fees
3. Kraken — Best for Security-First Users Who Want Institutional-Grade Protection
4. Binance — Best for Volume, Liquidity, and the Widest Range of Markets
5. OKX — Best for Decentralized Trading With a Self-Custody Wallet
6. Bybit — Best for Derivatives and High-Leverage Margin Trading
7. PrimeXBT — Best for Multi-Asset Trading Across Crypto, Forex, and Commodities
8. Crypto.com — Best for Beginners Who Want Cards, Rewards, and Simple Onboarding

Key Takeaways

• The best crypto apps in 2026 let users trade, store, and earn from their phone — but the best automated crypto apps go further, running trades on someone’s behalf 24/7.
• SaintQuant is the standout choice for anyone who wants hands-off automated crypto trading — no Telegram signals, no manual entries, no emotional decisions.
• Manual trading apps like MEXC, Kraken, and Binance remain excellent for active traders who want broad market access and low fees.
• Wallet apps like OKX are the right pick if self-custody and key control matter.
• In 2026, the best crypto apps combine ease of use, mobile access, and features that actually help users grow their portfolio — with or without actively managing it.

Best crypto trading apps reviewed

1. SaintQuant — Best AI-automated crypto trading app for passive income in 2026

For those who are tired of watching charts, chasing Telegram signals, and making emotional decisions at 2 am, SaintQuant is the answer.

SaintQuant is an AI-powered crypto trading bot platform trusted by over 150,000 users globally. It’s not a manual trading app. It doesn’t require users to pick entries, manage exits, or babysit positions. They choose a risk level and strategy, deposit funds, and the AI handles everything else — including execution, risk management, and reinvestment — 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The platform is operated by SAIN PTY LTD (Australian-registered) and has been featured on MarketWatch, TradingView, Benzinga, AMBCrypto, and GlobeNewswire. It holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.3, Capterra 4.8, and G2 4.7 — rare consistency across all three major review platforms.

What makes SaintQuant different from every other app on this list?

Every other app here requires users to trade. SaintQuant trades on behalf of the user. The AI processes over 2.5 million daily signals — real-time prices, on-chain data, NLP sentiment analysis — and executes trades across three diversified bot types:

• DCA Bot (Dollar Cost Averaging): Automatically invests at regular intervals. Reduces the impact of volatility. Best for long-term, low-risk accumulation.
• Grid Bot: Places buy and sell orders at predetermined price intervals. Profits from sideways markets. Runs continuously without directional bias.
• Swing Bot: Captures medium-term price movements using momentum indicators and trailing profit targets. Backtested on five years of historical data.

Each strategy comes with a clearly labeled risk level (Low / Medium / High), bot type, trading frequency, and the verified average daily ROI target. There’s no guesswork about what the user is getting into.

SaintQuant’s verified average daily ROI is 1.2%. That’s not a marketing promise — it’s verified across the platform’s 4 million+ executed trades since 2021.

Here’s a snapshot of their current strategy tiers:

Plan	Investment	Duration	Target Daily ROI	Risk	Bot Type
Starter	$99 Free Trial	10 days	~1.00%	Low	DCA
Basic	$150	5 days	~1.35%	Medium	DCA
Advanced	$500	10 days	~1.48%	Medium	Grid
Pro	$1,000	14 days	~1.55%	Medium	Grid
Elite	$2,500	20 days	~1.62%	Medium	Grid
Premium	$6,000	25 days	~1.75%	Medium	Grid
Institutional	$15,000	30 days	~1.80%	Medium	Swing

At the end of each contract period, the original capital plus earned profit is returned to the user’s account.

SaintQuant connects officially to eight major exchanges — Binance, Bybit, Bitget, BingX, Kraken, OKX, KuCoin, and Coinbase — and funds are secured using institutional-grade cold storage. The platform also has an iOS and Android app with real-time portfolio tracking, push notifications on trade executions, and the ability to pause or adjust strategies on the go.

What it’s missing: SaintQuant doesn’t support manual trading from the app itself — it’s built purely for automated strategies. Thos who want to manually place spot trades or analyze individual charts within the same app need a secondary platform like MEXC or Kraken alongside it.

SaintQuant Key Features

• AI strategy execution running 24/7 — no manual input required after setup
• 2.5M+ daily signals processed across price, on-chain, and sentiment data
• Machine learning optimization continuously refines strategies across market cycles
• Automated stop-losses and exposure monitoring protect a user’s downside in real time
• 10+ strategies across Low, Medium, and High risk — pick what matches a user’s comfort level
• Free 10-day Starter trial — full access to live AI trading with no credit card required
• Available on iOS and Android with full portfolio monitoring and instant strategy controls
• Officially linked to 8 major exchanges, including Binance, Kraken, Bybit, OKX

Pros

• Genuinely hands-off — no chart-watching, no manual entries
  Verified avg 1.2% daily ROI across 4M+ executed trades
  150,000+ active users with Trustpilot 4.3
  Three diversified bot types (DCA, Grid, Swing) that perform across market conditions
  Institutional-grade cold storage and automated risk controls
  Free 10-day trial with no credit card required
  Australian-registered (SAIN PTY LTD) — adds regulatory confidence
  Featured on MarketWatch, TradingView, Benzinga

Cons

• Not designed for manual trading — automated platform only
  Requires crypto deposit (no fiat on-ramp)
  Higher tiers require significant capital investment

Start the free 10-day trial with SaintQuant

2. MEXC — Trade thousands of crypto pairs at just 0.1% per side

MEXC is one of the best crypto trading apps for market diversity. It lists thousands of tradable pairs — ranging from Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin down to newly launched altcoins with limited trading history. For active traders who want maximum selection and rock-bottom spot fees, MEXC is hard to beat.

Spot trading fees come in at just 0.1%, making it one of the most affordable manual trading apps in 2026. MEXC also benefits from high daily trading volumes and premium liquidity, which means orders fill quickly without significant price impact.

The mobile app is available on iOS and Android and offers a comprehensive charting dashboard with technical indicators — everything needed for on-the-go analysis.

What it’s missing: MEXC doesn’t offer the kind of fully automated AI trading that SaintQuant provides. Users are still manually selecting entries, managing risk, and monitoring their positions. It’s an excellent tool for active traders, but not a set-and-forget solution.

MEXC App Key Features

• Spot trading fees of just 0.1% per side
• Thousands of tradable crypto pairs including new and low-cap altcoins
• Flexible savings accounts with competitive yields (up to 8.8% on Tether)
• iOS and Android app with full charting and technical analysis tools
• High daily volume and strong liquidity across major pairs

Pros

• Extremely low spot trading fees
  Widest market selection of any app on this list
  Strong mobile trading interface
  Flexible savings products for passive yield

Cons

• No AI automation — all trading is manual
• The interface can feel overwhelming for a complete beginner
• Newer altcoins carry a higher liquidity risk

3. Kraken — Competitive fees and institutional-grade security

Kraken has been in the market since 2011 and has built one of the strongest security track records in crypto. For users who want a trustworthy, regulated exchange with solid fees and strong custodial storage, Kraken is a top-tier choice.

Spot fees start competitively for standard users and reduce further with volume. Kraken supports both spot and futures trading, along with staking on selected assets. The mobile app offers two-factor authentication and biometrics, and the exchange keeps the majority of client funds in offline cold storage.

What it’s missing: Like MEXC, Kraken is a manual trading platform. The interface is cleaner than many competitors, but the trader is still the one making every decision.

Kraken App Key Features

• Long-standing security record with no major breaches
• Spot and futures trading available
• 2FA and biometric login on mobile
• Staking available on selected assets
• Regulated in multiple jurisdictions including the US

Pros

• Exceptional security and regulatory compliance
  Clean, beginner-friendly app interface
  Competitive fees with volume-based discounts
  Strong custodial storage with cold wallet majority

Cons

• No built-in AI automation
• Futures leverage lower than some competitors
• Fewer altcoins than MEXC

4. Binance — The largest crypto app for trading volume, liquidity, and active users

Binance is the world’s largest crypto exchange by trading volume. Binance is the gold standard for users who prioritize liquidity, especially when trading large positions. The app supports hundreds of coins, BNB-based fee discounts, staking, futures, and one of the deepest order books in the market.

The Binance app is available globally (with regional exceptions) and offers a sophisticated suite of tools for both beginners and advanced traders. BNB holders benefit from reduced trading fees across the platform.

What it’s missing: Binance requires active management. It has introduced some automated tools like copy trading and simple bots, but these pale in comparison to a dedicated AI platform like SaintQuant’s verified performance across 4M+ trades.

Binance App Key Features

• Deepest order book and highest trading volume globally
• Spot fees of 0.1%, reduced further with BNB
• Staking, savings, and launchpad for new projects
• Futures trading with up to 125x leverage
• Strong mobile app on iOS and Android

Pros

• Best-in-class liquidity
• Widest range of features in one platform
• BNB fee discounts reward loyal users
• Frequent promotions, airdrops, and events

Cons

• Regulatory pressure in several countries
• Overwhelming for complete beginners
• Manual trading only — automation is limited

5. OKX — Decentralized trading with a self-custody wallet

OKX occupies a unique position: it’s both a major centralized exchange and a powerful self-custody wallet. For users who want full control of their private keys while still having access to a CEX when needed, OKX covers both bases in one app.

The OKX wallet supports over 70 network standards and allows token swaps via decentralized liquidity pools — no account required. Fees are determined by the liquidity pool and are typically a small fraction of a percent. Security features include biometrics and multi-party computation (MPC), which removes the single-point-of-failure risk of traditional private keys.

OKX also connects to staking and liquidity farming pools for passive income. The centralized exchange portion requires KYC verification.

OKX App Key Features

• Self-custody wallet with full private key control
• Supports 70+ blockchain networks
• Token swaps via decentralized pools — no account needed
• Biometrics and MPC security
• Centralized exchange available with KYC

Pros

• Best self-custody option with no KYC needed for DEX trading
• Earn competitive yields on idle tokens
• Wide network compatibility
• Advanced security via MPC

Cons

• Decentralized trading is more complex for beginners
• Fees are only fully visible when creating an order

6. Bybit — The hottest app for derivatives and margin trading

Bybit has become one of the most popular apps for derivatives traders in 2026. It specializes in perpetual contracts and margin trading, with competitive funding rates and high leverage options. The app interface is well-designed for active traders who need speed and precision.

Bybit also offers copy trading, allowing users to mirror the positions of experienced traders. Its reward system and frequent promotions make it attractive for new users who want to start with a bonus.

Bybit App Key Features

• Perpetual and futures contracts with up to 100x leverage
• Copy trading for beginners who want to follow experienced traders
• Competitive maker/taker fee structure
• Frequent welcome bonuses and trading rewards
• Available globally on iOS and Android

Pros

• Leading platform for derivatives trading
• Copy trading feature ideal for newer active traders
• High leverage with robust risk tools
• Active rewards and promotions program

Cons

• High leverage amplifies losses — not suitable for inexperienced users
• Complexity of derivatives is a steep learning curve

7. PrimeXBT — Multi-asset trading with high leverage

PrimeXBT stands out for offering trading access across crypto, forex, and commodities in a single app. For users who want to trade Bitcoin alongside EUR/USD or gold without switching platforms, PrimeXBT is worth considering.

The app also offers a copy trading feature called Covesting, which lets traders follow the performance of top-ranked traders and mirror their positions. Leverage is available on most markets, and the interface is clean enough for intermediate-level users.

PrimeXBT App Key Features

• Trade crypto, forex, commodities, and indices in one app
• Covesting copy trading module
• Leverage available on all markets
• Clean interface suitable for intermediate traders
• Available on iOS and Android

Pros

• Unique multi-asset access in one app
• Copy trading lowers the barrier for new users
• Leverage across all asset classes

Cons

• Not beginner-friendly for first-time crypto users
• Copy trading quality depends heavily on the traders to follow

8. Crypto.com — Beginner-friendly app with cards, rewards, and broad market access

Crypto.com is one of the most recognizable names in retail crypto. Its app is designed with simplicity in mind — onboarding is fast, the interface is clean, and the Crypto.com Visa card lets traders spend crypto rewards in daily life.

For beginners who want their first crypto app to feel intuitive, Crypto.com removes a lot of the friction. It supports hundreds of coins and provides staking and savings products with competitive yields.

What it’s missing: Crypto.com’s trading fees include a spread, which can make it slightly more expensive than raw exchange fees on platforms like MEXC. But for beginners, the simplicity trade-off is often worth it.

Crypto.com App Key Features

• Crypto Visa card with crypto cashback rewards
• 250+ supported cryptocurrencies
• Simple buy/sell interface for beginners
• Staking and savings products with variable yields
• Fiat on-ramp with card and bank transfer

Pros

• Best-in-class beginner onboarding experience
• Crypto Visa card adds real-world utility
• Wide coin selection
• Recognizable brand with strong trust signals

Cons

• Spread-based fees can be higher than exchange-based pricing
• No automation or AI trading features

The methodology for ranking the best crypto apps

We reviewed and ranked these 13 apps based on the following criteria, weighted by what actually matters to real users in 2026:

Automation and AI capability — In 2026, the most valuable crypto apps are the ones that can execute profitable strategies. The article gave significant weight to platforms that offer genuine AI-powered automation, verified performance data, and hands-off operation.

Safety and security — Assessed both technical security (cold storage, 2FA, encryption, MPC) and regulatory compliance. Platforms with clean track records and transparent operations ranked higher.

Supported markets — Considered the breadth of tradable pairs, including major coins, altcoins, and derivative products.

User scenarios — Each app serves a different type of user. We matched apps to reader types: beginners, passive income seekers, active traders, and automation-first users.

Fees — Compared trading fees, deposit fees, withdrawal fees, and any hidden spread-based pricing.

Wallet type — Assessed whether wallets are custodial or self-custody, and what that means practically for different users.

Trading tools — Chart analysis, technical indicators, copy trading, and bot features all factored into our evaluation.

Deposit options — Checked fiat on-ramp availability, accepted payment methods, minimums, and deposit fees.

In-app support — Considered the availability and quality of customer support, including live chat and response times.

Best crypto apps for 2026: Compared

App	Best For	Automation	Fees	Custodial	Fiat On-Ramp
SaintQuant	AI-automated passive income	✅ Full AI	Strategy-based	Custodial	Crypto only
MEXC	Maximum market selection	❌ Manual	0.1% spot	Custodial	✅ Yes
Kraken	Security-first traders	❌ Manual	Competitive	Custodial	✅ Yes
Binance	Volume & liquidity	❌ Manual	0.1% (BNB discount)	Custodial	✅ Yes
OKX	Self-custody + DEX trading	❌ Manual	Pool-determined	Self-custody	✅ CEX only
Bybit	Derivatives trading	❌ Manual	Competitive maker/taker	Custodial	✅ Yes
PrimeXBT	Multi-asset copy trading	Partial (copy)	Competitive	Custodial	✅ Yes
Crypto.com	Beginner onboarding	❌ Manual	Spread-based	Custodial	✅ Yes

How to choose the best crypto app to start with

Safety

The most important question to ask about any crypto app is: Can I lose access to my funds? This depends on two things: the security of the platform itself, and whether it’s custodial or self-custody.

Custodial platforms like Kraken and Binance hold private keys on users’ behalf. They protect them with 2FA, cold storage, and institutional security — but in theory, users don’t control the keys. Self-custody apps like OKX put users fully in control, which is more secure in one sense and riskier in another (lose the seed phrase and there’s no recovery).

For automated platforms like SaintQuant, funds are secured via cold storage, and the bots operate via API — exchange withdrawal permissions are never granted to the bot, meaning funds can’t be removed from the exchange without the user’s action.

Security Features

Look for: two-factor authentication (2FA), biometric login, cold storage for the majority of funds, and where possible, MPC (multi-party computation) technology that removes single-point-of-failure risk.

Supported markets

For those who want to trade Bitcoin only, almost any app works. Want altcoins? Choose MEXC or Binance. For those who want derivatives and leverage, look at Bybit, Margex, or BloFin. Those looking for automated AI trading across strategies, SaintQuant is the only app on this list purpose-built for that.

User Scenarios

Here’s a fast guide:

• Want crypto to generate passive income without watching charts: SaintQuant
• Want to trade manually across thousands of coins: MEXC or Binance
• Prioritize security and regulation above everything: Kraken
• Want to own keys and trade on DEXs: OKX 
• Want to copy an experienced trader: Bybit or WEEX
• Want a simple first app as a beginner: Crypto.com
• Want a taste of automation without paying extra: Pionex

Non-Trading Fees

Crypto deposits are usually free. Fiat deposits via card can carry processing fees of 1.5–3%, depending on the provider. Always check withdrawal fees before choosing a platform — these vary significantly across chains and token types.

Trading Fees

For spot trading, 0.1% is the standard benchmark (MEXC, Binance). Margex offers 0.06% for derivatives. SaintQuant’s fee structure is embedded in the strategy tier rather than per-trade commissions. Pionex charges 0.05% and offers bots for free.

Most platforms offer preferential rates for high-volume traders or for holding the exchange’s native token (BNB on Binance, MX on MEXC).

In-Built Wallet

The best crypto apps let users store their coins without a separate wallet app. However, the type of wallet matters enormously:

• Custodial wallets (Kraken, Binance, MEXC): The exchange holds keys. Secure, but the user is trusting the platform.
• Self-custody wallets (OKX): Users hold the keys. Full control, full responsibility.
• Automated platform storage (SaintQuant): Funds are secured via institutional cold storage by SaintQuant, with no exchange withdrawal permissions granted to the AI.

Trading Tools

Active traders should look for apps with full charting, technical indicators, and mobile-optimized interfaces. MEXC and Bybit are excellent here. For automated traders, the “tools” are the AI itself — and SaintQuant’s machine learning optimization, running 24/7, is more powerful than any charting suite.

Deposit Options

Most apps accept crypto deposits. Fiat options vary — Kraken, Binance, Crypto.com, and MEXC all offer card and bank transfer on-ramps. SaintQuant accepts crypto deposits only (supported assets listed in the dashboard after registration).

In-App Support

The leading apps offer 24/7 live chat. SaintQuant offers direct support via the contact page. When evaluating any platform, send a test message before committing capital and assess response time.

How to get started with a crypto app: Step-by-step guide for beginners

Step 1: Decide What to Do With Crypto

Looking to actively trade? Store crypto safely? Generate passive income? Each goal points to a different app.

Step 2: Download the App and Register an Account

Download the chosen app from the App Store or Google Play. Registration typically requires an email or phone number. Some platforms (Kraken, Binance, Crypto.com) require KYC identity verification. OKX lets users use the DEX features without an account.

For SaintQuant: visit the official website, create a free account in under two minutes, and choose a strategy.

Step 3: Deposit Funds

• Fiat platforms: Deposit via debit/credit card or bank transfer.
• Crypto-only platforms (SaintQuant): Transfer crypto to an account wallet. Supported assets are listed in the dashboard.
• Minimums vary: SaintQuant’s Starter plan begins at $99. MEXC and Kraken have low minimum deposit requirements.

Step 4: Activate the Strategy or Make the First Trade

For manual trading apps: search for the asset, choose the position size, and confirm.

For SaintQuant: choose the risk level (Low/Medium/High), select a strategy, activate it, and the AI begins executing immediately. No ongoing input required.

Conclusion: Best apps to buy, trade, and automate crypto in 2026

Crypto apps in 2026 are more capable than ever — but they’re not all built for the same person.

Want to manually trade thousands of crypto pairs with low fees and professional tools? MEXC and Binance are the standout options. If security and regulation are a priority, Kraken is hard to fault. For those who want full control of their keys without a custodial middleman, OKX delivers.

But if what a user actually wants is crypto generating consistent returns without trading manually — without chart-watching, without signal groups, without emotional decisions — then there’s only one platform on this list purpose-built for that: SaintQuant.

150,000+ traders globally. 4 million+ trades executed. Verified avg 1.2% daily ROI. Trustpilot 4.3 / Capterra 4.8 / G2 4.7. A free 10-day trial with no credit card required.

The best crypto app in 2026 isn’t just the one with the most coins or the lowest fees. It’s the one that actually works for a particular lifestyle. 

Start the free SaintQuant trial — no credit card, no coding, no charts required

FAQs

What is the best crypto app in 2026?

The best crypto app depends on the goal. For automated passive income, SaintQuant is our top pick — it’s the only AI-powered trading platform on this list with verified average daily ROI and 150,000+ active users. For manual trading, MEXC offers the widest market selection at competitive fees.

What is the best crypto app for beginners with no experience?

SaintQuant is ideal for beginners who want returns without needing trading knowledge — choose a risk level, and the AI handles everything. For beginners who want to learn manual trading, Crypto.com’s simple interface is the easiest starting point.

Is it safe to use a crypto trading bot app?

Bot safety varies enormously by platform. SaintQuant operates via API with no exchange withdrawal permissions — meaning funds cannot be removed from the exchange by the bot. Look for platforms that are transparent about this and have verifiable track records.

What is the best crypto app to make money passively?

SaintQuant. Its AI-powered bots run 24/7, executing strategies across DCA, Grid, and Swing bot types with a verified avg 1.2% daily ROI target. Capital plus profit is returned at the end of each contract period.

What is the best crypto trading app for active traders?

MEXC for spot trading (0.1% fees, thousands of pairs), Bybit or Margex for derivatives (0.06% at Margex), and Binance for maximum liquidity. All require manual input and active management.