July 2, 2026

1. Standard Chartered Becomes First Global Bank to Offer Direct USDC Access to Institutions

business

Standard Chartered has become the first Global Systemically Important Bank authorized to allow institutions to mint and redeem Circle's USDC. This move marks a significant step in integrating stablecoins into traditional banking systems, with the initial rollout occurring in Dubai's DIFC and plans for global expansion.

2. Bitcoin Price Taps New July High Above $62K on Weak US Jobs Data

market

Bitcoin's price surged to over $62,000, marking a daily gain of nearly 4%, driven by weaker-than-expected US jobs data. The market interpreted the data as a signal for potential easing of inflation policies by the Federal Reserve, boosting investor confidence in the cryptocurrency.

3. Tether Freezes 134 ISIS Terror Wallets Amid OFAC Sanctions Update

security

Tether froze USDT balances on 134 crypto wallets linked to ISIS-K following an update to the OFAC sanctions list. This action underscores the role of stablecoin issuers in enforcing international sanctions, as these wallets were identified to have received over $1.4 million in crypto donations.

4. Mystery Owner Challenges $200B 'Lost' Satoshi Bitcoin Claim in New York Court

regulation

A pseudonymous individual, John Doe 33, has appeared in New York court to contest a lawsuit seeking control of over $200 billion in dormant Bitcoin, allegedly linked to Satoshi Nakamoto. This legal battle could have significant implications for the ownership and control of Bitcoin associated with its mysterious creator.

Sources:CryptoSlate

5. Ondo Finance Tokenizes BlackRock ETF and Micron Stock Under US Custodial Model

technology

Ondo Finance has launched tokenized versions of BlackRock's IVV ETF and Micron shares, utilizing an SEC-defined custodial model with Ethereum-based settlement. This initiative represents a key development in integrating traditional financial assets into the blockchain ecosystem while adhering to US regulatory standards.

All Sources

Last updated: 7/2/2026, 11:00:58 PM UTC

View raw items