The crypto market was little changed on Thursday, with bitcoin BTC$72,578.05 and ether (ETH) posting gains of less than 1% as investors consolidated following Wednesday’s breakout.

While bitcoin crucially held above the $70,000 level that had rebuffed ealier rallies, it has failed to deliver an upside shift to $80,000 that some analysts predicted.

Global equities responded well to reports that Iran had secretly reached out to the U.S. in hopes of making an agreement to end the war in return for limiting its missile production.

The Dollar Index (DXY) fell as a result, but remains up by 3.5% since late January as traders attempt to rationalize potential interest rate changes by the Federal Reserve. Disruption in the Strait of Hormuz would increase inflation, forcing the Fed’s hand to raise rates to keep deposits high.

Bitcoin typically rallies when the dollar weakens and falls when the currency is bullish.

Derivatives positioning

• Bitcoin futures open interest (OI) picked up, with the tally increasing to 680K BTC, the most in almost two weeks. This pattern confirms the spot price gains.
• Ether’s OI increased to 13.41 million ether, the highest since Jan. 31. Activity in XRP futures remains subdued, with OI stuck at recent lows below 1.70 billion XRP. The same can be said for Solana’s SOL.
• OI in futures tied to gold tokens Tether gold (XAUT) and PAXG$5,172.09 continues to drop as cryptocurrencies rise. Investors could be rotating money into majors as the gold price rally stalls.
• Privacy-focused ZEC’s futures activity is also picking up, with total OI ending a two-month downtrend.
• Annualized perpetual funding rates for bitcoin and ether remain mildly positive, pointing to a bullish bias. Rates, however, remain slightly negative for XRP and SOL.
• Bitcoin and ether’s 30-day implied volatility indexes remain steady in recent ranges, indicating market stability. Wall Street’s volatility index, VIX, has pulled back to 21% from Monday’s high of 28%.
• On Deribit, put skews in bitcoin and ether options have weakened, but persist alongside increased activity in higher strike calls, or bullish bets.
• Block flows in options featured demand for call calendar diagonal spreads on bitcoin and ether.

Token talk

• Layer-1 token MANTRA completed a token migration and rebrand, replacing the legacy OM token with the MANTRA ticker and implementing a 1:4 redenomination, leading to a 25% rise in token price over the past 24 hours.
• The bullish privacy token narrative at the turn of the year fell flat on its face in February as ZEC, DASH and XMR entered a deep correction, but monero (XMR) appears to now be bucking that trend, rising by 5.2% since midnight UTC and notching a 9.8% gain over the past week.
• Crypto majors dominated market gains over the past 24 hours, with the CoinDesk 5 (CF5) and CoinDesk 10 (CD10) indexes each rising around 3.1%. The DeFi Select Index and Computing Select Index were up by just 0.4% and 0.7%, respectively, over the same period.
• If bitcoin can continue to move towards $80,000 and consolidate, profits may then be rolled into more speculative altcoin bets, but for now the market remains cautious.

TLDR:

• Binance receives ISO 22301 certification verifying its global Business Continuity Management framework.
• The certification confirms Binance can maintain services during disruptions through tested recovery systems.
• Binance strengthens infrastructure with redundant data centers, monitoring systems, and 24/7 response teams.
• The exchange is aligning internal controls with the EU’s DORA framework for stronger ICT risk management.

Binance secures ISO 22301 certification for Business Continuity Management, marking a new operational milestone for the global cryptocurrency exchange.

The certification confirms that Binance maintains structured systems designed to sustain services during unexpected disruptions.

The recognition was issued by the British Standards Institution after an independent audit. The development comes as Binance continues strengthening operational resilience and aligning its internal frameworks with emerging regulatory expectations in global financial and digital asset markets.

Global Standard Confirms Binance’s Business Continuity Framework

Binance secures ISO 22301 certification after completing an external audit conducted by the British Standards Institution. The certification evaluates Business Continuity Management Systems that ensure organizations maintain operations during disruptive events.

ISO 22301 is an internationally recognized framework designed to verify readiness, response capability, and recovery speed following operational interruptions. Organizations receiving the certification must demonstrate structured risk management and continuity procedures.

Binance operates several safeguards designed to maintain stable service availability during infrastructure or security disruptions. These safeguards include redundant data centers, secure data backups, and continuous monitoring systems.

The platform also maintains a 24-hour incident response structure designed to detect and address technical issues quickly. Disaster recovery planning and technology continuity procedures form part of the operational framework.

Binance Chief Executive Officer Richard Teng addressed the milestone in a public statement shared on X.

In the post, Teng stated, “Binance is now ISO 22301-certified. I’m proud to share that we’ve secured ISO 22301 certification for Business Continuity Management.”

He added that the recognition confirms Binance’s ability to maintain seamless services even during unexpected operational disruptions.

Alignment With EU Digital Operational Resilience Requirements

Alongside the certification, Binance continues aligning operational frameworks with the European Union’s Digital Operational Resilience Act. The regulation aims to strengthen technology risk management standards across financial entities.

The DORA framework requires firms to maintain resilient infrastructure, structured reporting processes, and stronger oversight of operational risks. Binance has introduced measures designed to meet these requirements.

The company is expanding internal controls while refining incident reporting procedures across its operational teams. The framework also improves monitoring of third-party service providers supporting the platform’s infrastructure.

These measures focus on improving system reliability and maintaining platform access during technology-related disruptions. The approach also allows earlier identification of operational risks and faster response coordination.

Binance Chief Security Officer Jimmy Su also addressed the certification in an official company statement.

Su said, “Achieving the ISO 22301 certification marks a milestone for Binance, affirming that our Business Continuity Management system meets a globally recognized standard.”

He stated that the framework allows users to maintain confidence in the safety and accessibility of their assets at all times.

The certification arrives as digital asset platforms continue strengthening operational safeguards and resilience standards across global markets.

Key Takeaways

• Google’s security researchers reveal Coruna exploit framework designed to steal cryptocurrency from iPhones.
• The exploit framework successfully compromises iOS versions 13 through 17.2.1 via WebKit vulnerabilities.
• Multiple threat actors deploy identical exploits for both espionage campaigns and financial cybercrime.
• Malicious code targets cryptocurrency wallets, QR codes, and stored notes containing sensitive credentials.
• Immediate iOS updates or Lockdown Mode activation recommended for device protection.

Security researchers at Google have uncovered a sophisticated exploitation framework specifically designed to compromise iPhones operating on iOS versions ranging from 13 to 17.2.1. According to Google’s Threat Intelligence Group, cybercriminals leverage this exploit toolkit to extract cryptocurrency wallet credentials and other valuable financial data. Google’s analysis reveals that the framework has been adopted by various malicious actors conducting both state-sponsored surveillance and widespread financial fraud operations.

Google monitors Coruna exploit framework distribution among cybercriminal groups

The Threat Intelligence division at Google first encountered this exploitation toolkit while investigating targeted surveillance activities during the early months of 2025. Security analysts at Google observed threat actors utilizing the framework through specialized JavaScript code engineered to profile iPhone hardware. This profiling mechanism determines specific device models and firmware versions before deploying customized exploitation sequences.

Google subsequently traced connections between this identical exploit framework and watering-hole compromises specifically aimed at Ukrainian internet users. The malicious JavaScript appeared embedded within legitimate but compromised websites, loading through concealed iFrames that activated exclusively when visitors accessed sites using iPhones. Google’s research team attributed these intrusion attempts to UNC6353, a threat actor suspected of conducting Russian intelligence operations.

Further investigation by Google revealed the same exploitation toolkit operating across extensive networks of deceptive Chinese financial platforms. These fraudulent websites presented themselves as legitimate cryptocurrency exchanges and online gambling services to deceive potential victims. Google’s findings indicate that financially motivated cybercriminals subsequently adopted the toolkit for mass-scale criminal operations.

Google researchers document exploit sequences across multiple iOS releases

According to Google’s technical analysis, the Coruna framework encompasses five complete exploitation sequences utilizing twenty-three distinct security vulnerabilities. The toolkit successfully compromises iPhone devices operating any firmware version between iOS 13 and iOS 17.2.1. Google’s security analysts verified that attackers weaponize WebKit browser vulnerabilities as the initial attack vector to gain code execution on victim devices.

The exploitation framework incorporates sophisticated techniques to circumvent advanced security mechanisms including pointer authentication controls. Following successful initial compromise, attackers deliver encrypted binary components specifically crafted to inject additional malicious modules into the operating system. Google’s technical documentation describes a specialized loader component that infiltrates code directly into iOS power management system processes.

Google additionally documented that the exploit framework intentionally avoids compromising devices operating with Lockdown Mode enabled or during private browsing sessions. The toolkit employs advanced fingerprinting methodologies to confirm it exclusively targets authentic iPhone hardware. Google’s technical assessment demonstrates that attackers meticulously engineered the framework to deploy version-specific exploit sequences tailored to each target device.

Google security team identifies crypto wallet theft as primary objective

Google‘s security analysts determined that the ultimate malware payload concentrates on harvesting financial credentials and cryptocurrency information stored within compromised devices. The malware systematically scans filesystem contents and image files searching for cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrases and banking-related references. Google documented that the malicious code specifically searches for BIP39 mnemonic seed phrases and associated wallet backup terminology.

The malicious application possesses capabilities to analyze photographic content stored on compromised devices, specifically scanning for QR code patterns containing wallet credentials or transaction information. Upon successfully identifying valuable data, the malware establishes connections with attacker-operated command infrastructure to exfiltrate the stolen information. Google’s analysis confirmed the malware additionally searches Apple Notes application data for content referencing banking credentials or cryptographic recovery keys.

Google verified that the exploitation framework no longer successfully compromises the most recent iOS firmware releases. Nevertheless, Google strongly advises users to immediately update devices currently operating outdated operating system versions. The security team additionally recommends activating Lockdown Mode on devices where immediate updates prove impractical, significantly reducing vulnerability to similar exploitation attempts.

The launch of X Money has moved into a high-profile limited external beta, sparked by recent social media activity from Elon Musk and William Shatner.

While speculation regarding cryptocurrency integration is high, current reports indicate the initial rollout focuses primarily on fiat services.

Shatner tapped for X Money beta rollout

Actor William Shatner recently confirmed his involvement in the beta, posting about the “42nd X Money opportunity”. With X’s permission, Shatner has been auctioning invites to the payment service for charity. His posts revealed key features of the service, including:

• 6% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on cash deposits.
• A $25 welcome gift for new beta users.
• An all-black X debit card offering cashback on eligible purchases.

Musk’s “Everything App” vision

Elon Musk reinforced the significance of the launch by retweeting screenshots of the new interface and debit card.

He also share a post from Teslaconomics on X Money stating, “This will be big”.

Two board members of American Bitcoin (ABTC), the bitcoin mining company backed by the Trump family, have made significant open-market share purchases of the firm’s stock, according to a Thursday filing.

Justin Mateen, co-founder of Tinder and an ABTC board member since March 2025, bought approximately 1.3 million shares at an average price of about $1 per share. The stock closed at $1.15 on Wednesday.

Fellow board member Richard Busch, a partner at law firm King & Ballow, purchased about 330,000 shares over the last two days.

The timing is notable, as the trading window opened after ABTC released its latest earnings report, making these the first purchases insiders could make following the disclosure.

The bitcoin mining firm reported a $59 million loss in the fourth quarter of 2025, as the sharp decline in the price of the largest cryptocurrency reduced the value of its holdings.

Eric Trump said in a Wednesday post on X that American Bitcoin now holds more than 6,500 BTC, an increase of over 500 BTC since the last disclosure. The update places the firm among the world’s 17 largest publicly traded bitcoin holders.

The miner went public in September, less than a month before bitcoin reached a record high. The stock has struggled along with the price of BTC, the shares tumbling from about the $8 level to the current $1.15.

ABTC is following a dual strategy of BTC mining and direct purchases. About one-third of its bitcoin comes from mining operations, while the remainder is acquired through open-market purchases and strategic transactions, largely financed by stock sales. The firm is 20% owned by Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr.

The company announced Tuesday that it had bought 11,298 ASIC miners, a move that it said will increase its mining capacity by about 12%.

Read more: Eric Trump’s American Bitcoin buys 11,298 ASIC miners, increasing mining capacity by 12%

Stablecoin inflows rebounded last week as on-chain activity regained momentum, even as US lawmakers and banking groups sparred over whether third-party yield on stablecoins should be allowed. Messari’s latest data shows weekly net inflows climbing to $1.7 billion, a 414.5% increase from the prior week. The shift helped flip the 30-day average to a positive $162.5 million in daily inflows, while transaction volumes rose about 6.3%. The uptick signals renewed issuance demand and renewed participation from retail investors, suggesting a steadier baseline for stablecoins after a softer start to the year.

Key takeaways

• Weekly net stablecoin inflows surged to $1.7 billion, representing a 414.5% week-on-week increase and signaling renewed issuance demand.
• The 30-day average turned positive, with daily inflows averaging about $162.5 million and on-chain activity rising by roughly 6.3%.
• Average transaction size declined, a pattern that often accompanies broader issuance and more diverse retail participation.
• Earlier in the period, inflows were weaker—about $249 million in weekly inflows two weeks prior, with a net $4.4 billion of outflows over the 30 days leading up to February 18.
• Policy and regulatory dynamics framed the backdrop: the CLARITY Act advanced in the House in July 2025 to establish a clearer framework for digital assets, while the GENIUS Act—also designed to regulate stablecoins—was enacted in July 2025, with President Trump publicly criticizing banks for stalling the process. The ongoing debate over yield-bearing stablecoins remains a central point of contention in any broader market-structure bill.
• In the broader market, the environment remains sensitive to regulatory signals and the balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding consumers, with the yield question at the core of the current stalemate.

Tickers mentioned: $USDC, $USDT

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The rebound in inflows comes amid a wider on-chain revival and ongoing regulatory scrutiny of stablecoins. As lawmakers weigh whether to permit yield-bearing features and how to structure a broader crypto market framework, market participants continue to monitor regulatory clarity and the potential impact on stablecoin demand and issuance strategies.

Why it matters

The renewed inflows underscore the enduring importance of stablecoins as a liquidity layer for crypto markets. As traders and institutions seek faster settlement and more predictable liquidity, the appetite for stablecoins like USDC (CRYPTO: USDC) and USDT (CRYPTO: USDT) remains robust. This trend matters for exchanges, DeFi protocols, and liquidity providers, who rely on stablecoins to manage risk and enable efficient trading even amid volatility in other crypto sectors.

Regulators’ move toward clarity—through measures like the CLARITY Act and the GENIUS Act—has been a defining theme for 2025. While the former is designed to provide a clear regulatory framework for digital assets, the latter restricts issuers from paying yield solely for holding a stablecoin while permitting third-party rewards tied to stablecoin balances. The laws aim to strike a balance between consumer protection and innovation, a dynamic that can influence both the attractiveness of stablecoins for everyday users and the cost structure for issuers and wallets. The political context remains fluid, with public statements from high-profile figures adding another layer of risk and anticipation for market participants.

For investors and developers, the significance extends beyond inflows. The stability of on-chain volumes and the resilience of demand for stablecoins feed into DeFi activity, pegged lending, and cross-chain bridges. A policy environment that provides clearer rules could accelerate institutional engagement, while a restrictive stance on yield could slow some use cases but preserve overall capital stability for other participants. In short, the current inflow rebound matters not just as a one-week stat but as a signal about how the market expects regulatory clarity to shape user incentives and the broader crypto liquidity landscape.

What to watch next

• Whether the Senate resumes or adjusts markup on the CLARITY Act and the GENIUS Act, and any new regulatory guidance on yield-bearing strategies.
• Upcoming Messari or other on-chain data releases that could confirm whether the recent inflow spike translates into sustained issuance and on-chain activity.
• Any official statements or regulatory filings from stablecoin issuers regarding yield programs and reserve management in the wake of policy debates.
• Public commentary from policymakers and industry groups that could signal a shift in the balance between innovation and investor protection.

Sources & verification

• Messari, In the Stables: Inflows Surge 414% as Stablecoin Use Returns — https://messari.io/report/in-the-stables-inflows-surge-414-as-stablecoin-use-returns
• Digital Asset Market Structure Clarity Act explained — https://cointelegraph.com/explained/clarity-act-explained-what-it-means-for-crypto-week-and-beyond
• What does the US GENIUS Act mean for stablecoins — https://cointelegraph.com/explained/what-does-the-us-genius-act-mean-for-stablecoins
• Trump on the GENIUS Act and banks — https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/116167496865556148
• Indiana crypto rights bill coverage — https://cointelegraph.com/news/indiana-crypto-rights-bill-governor-signature

Stablecoin inflows rebound as policy debate stalls yields and structure

The latest Messari data portrays a market that remains sensitive to both on-chain dynamics and the policy questions that shape the incentive to issue, hold, and use stablecoins. The jump to $1.7 billion in weekly inflows represents a dramatic swing from earlier in the year and highlights a broader return of demand among a diverse investor base. While the headline figure is compelling, it sits within a larger context of fluctuating regulatory expectations and evolving market structure debates that aim to determine whether yield-bearing features can coexist with a robust, stable, and transparent financial system for digital assets.

On the technology and usage side, the increase in transaction volume coupled with a smaller average transaction size suggests a broadening base of participants entering the market. Retail interest appears to be returning, and the composition of flows may reflect a mix of retail, market-making, and liquidity-provision activity that extends beyond the traditional crypto trading venues. This is an important development for the ecosystem, as it signals a potentially more resilient liquidity layer that can support a wide range of DeFi protocols and cross-chain activities.

Policy developments continue to dominate the conversation. The CLARITY Act’s passage in the House and the GENIUS Act’s trajectory indicate a push toward a more predictable regulatory framework for stablecoins and digital assets overall. The debate over whether stablecoin issuers’ affiliates can pay yield—versus preventing issuers from paying yield solely for holding a stablecoin—touches directly on how users interact with these tokens in everyday finance. The public comments by President Trump, criticizing banks for stalling regulatory progress, underscore the political salience of these issues. As the legislative process unfolds, market participants will be watching for any concrete regulatory milestones that could influence issuance incentives, user behavior, and the competitive landscape among stablecoins.

Andreessen Horowitz’s crypto arm is back in the market with a fifth venture fund, even as the digital asset sector navigates a slower investment environment, Fortune reported.

A16z crypto aims to raise $2 billion for the fund and hopes to close the process during the first half of 2026, Fortune said, citing unidentified sources.

The venture capital firm declined to comment on the fundraising effort to Fortune, and neither the firm nor its PR team in London responded to a CoinDesk request for confirmation before publication.

The target is significantly below the company’s fourth fund, which raised $4.5 billion in 2023 and remains one of the largest dedicated crypto venture funds ever assembled. Still, it’s larger than the $650 million Dragonfly Capital raised last month.

The reported size suggests a more cautious approach to venture capital deployment as crypto markets cool from the highs seen only last year. Dragonfly’s was one of the largest raises in the sector at a time when many blockchain-focused VCs are struggling, according to Haseeb Qureshi, the firm’s managing partner.

Led by general partner Chris Dixon, a16z crypto has been one of the most influential investors in the digital asset sector, backing projects such as decentralized exchange Uniswap, digital asset platform Anchorage Digital and Jito Network, a core infrastructure protocol. Since its first $300 million crypto fund in 2018, the firm has played a major role in bringing institutional venture capital into blockchain startups.

In an X post last month, Dixon said he sees crypto as entering what he describes as its “financial era,” where blockchain-based financial applications could serve as the foundation for broader decentralized internet services.