BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 949,350
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 14 May 2026
Precedence: Routine FNG (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Trump–Xi Summit/ Russia Launches Large-Scale Missile Strikes/ Iran Pushes BRICS to Condemn U.S/ Israeli Strikes Across Lebanon/ Canadian Court Rejects Alberta Separation/ U.S. Senate Confirms Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chair/ Vance Holds Back $1.3 Billion in Medicaid Funds/ Congress Questions Pentagon’s Iran Strategy/ 11 Survive ‘Miraculous’ Rescue/ South Carolina Supreme Court Overturns Alex Murdaugh Murder Convictions/ Brian Armstrong Backs CLARITY Act/ U.S. stock market close/ Honda Posts First-Ever Annual Loss/ Foxconn Confirms Cyberattack and Data Theft/ U.S. Approves Nvidia H200 AI Chip Sales to 10 Chinese Firms/ SpaceX Targets May 19 for Next Starship Test Flight
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $79,496 16.93 oz Gold, .18 Median US House
24hr Hi: $80,570 / Lo: $78,699
Volume: $20.85 B
Mkt Cap: $1.59 T
HashRate: 990.57 EH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1 sats/vBtye (even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Trump–Xi Summit Opens in Beijing Amid Taiwan and Iran Tensions
President Donald Trump met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in the first U.S.–China summit of Trump’s second term. Xi warned that mishandling Taiwan could push relations into “a very dangerous place,” while both leaders publicly emphasized economic cooperation and strategic stability. Discussions focused on tariffs, AI competition, fentanyl trafficking, Iran, and reopening maritime commerce through the Strait of Hormuz. Senior U.S. technology executives, including Elon Musk and Tim Cook, accompanied the delegation, signaling a strong trade and industrial focus. No major agreements were announced, but both sides described the talks as constructive and scheduled follow-on meetings later this year(Guardian)
2. Russia Launches Large-Scale Missile and Drone Strikes on Kyiv
Russia carried out a major combined strike on Kyiv using ballistic missiles and mass drone attacks overnight. Ukrainian officials reported civilian casualties and infrastructure damage across several districts, with emergency crews continuing rescue operations. The attacks followed recent indications from Moscow that negotiations could eventually resume, suggesting Russia is maintaining military pressure while preserving diplomatic ambiguity. Air-defense systems intercepted many incoming weapons, but multiple impacts were confirmed. The strikes are among the heaviest on Kyiv in recent weeks. (BBC)
3. Iran Pushes BRICS to Condemn U.S. and Israel
Primary source: Reuters
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged BRICS nations to formally condemn U.S. and Israeli military actions connected to the ongoing Iran conflict. The request exposed divisions inside the BRICS bloc, particularly among members balancing Western trade ties against alignment with Tehran. India and Brazil reportedly resisted stronger language, preferring broader calls for regional stability. The diplomatic push occurred while oil markets remain highly sensitive to risks around the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts view the meeting as an indicator of how emerging economies are positioning themselves amid widening geopolitical fragmentation. Reuters)
4. Israeli Strikes Across Lebanon Kill at Least 22 Ahead of U.S.-Brokered Talks
Israeli airstrikes conducted across Lebanon on Wednesday killed at least 22 people, including eight children, according to Lebanese officials. The attacks occurred hours before Israeli and Lebanese delegations were scheduled to begin direct negotiations in Washington under U.S. mediation. Israel stated the strikes targeted Hezbollah infrastructure, drone operators, and weapons-storage locations in southern Lebanon and near Beirut. (Times of India)
5. Canadian Court Rejects Alberta Separation Referendum Effort
A Canadian federal court blocked an effort by Alberta separatist groups to advance a provincial independence referendum, ruling that the proposed process conflicted with the Canadian Constitution and exceeded provincial authority. The court stated that provinces cannot unilaterally pursue secession outside the constitutional framework established after the 1998 Supreme Court Quebec Secession Reference decision. The ruling represents a significant setback for the Alberta sovereignty movement, which has gained traction amid disputes over carbon regulations, pipeline restrictions, and federal environmental policy. Alberta separatist organizers argued the referendum was intended to pressure Ottawa over energy policy, federal taxation, and perceived political marginalization of western provinces. (CBC)
-US Events-
1. U.S. Senate Confirms Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chair
The U.S. Senate confirmed former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Warsh as the new Chair of the Federal Reserve following a closely watched confirmation vote amid persistent inflation and geopolitical market instability. Warsh, who previously served on the Federal Reserve Board from 2006 to 2011, is viewed as more hawkish on inflation and supportive of tighter monetary discipline than his predecessor. During confirmation hearings, he emphasized restoring long-term price stability, maintaining dollar credibility, and addressing structural risks tied to federal debt growth and persistent fiscal deficits. Markets reacted cautiously, with Treasury yields rising slightly as investors reassessed expectations for future interest-rate cuts. (WSJ)
2. Vance Holds Back $1.3 Billion in Medicaid Funds From California
Vice President JD Vance announced that the Trump administration is deferring approximately $1.3 billion in federal Medicaid funding to California over alleged fraud concerns tied to hospice and home healthcare providers. Administration officials stated the move is part of a broader federal anti-fraud initiative targeting suspected abuse within Medicare and Medicaid systems. Federal investigators claim hundreds of California hospice agencies may have engaged in fraudulent billing practices, prompting license suspensions, payment freezes, and expanded audits. (AP)
3. Congress Questions Pentagon’s Iran Strategy
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced bipartisan criticism in Senate hearings over the administration’s objectives and long-term strategy regarding Iran. Lawmakers pressed for clarity on operational costs, timelines, and legal authorization for expanded military activity. Pentagon budget projections tied to missile defense and Gulf operations have increased significantly. The Congressional Budget Office estimated Trump’s “Golden Dome” missile-defense concept could exceed $1 trillion over two decades. Congressional oversight pressure is intensifying as energy costs rise domestically. (AP)
4. 11 Survive ‘Miraculous’ Rescue Following Plane Crash Off Florida Coast
Eleven people survived after a twin-engine commuter aircraft crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off Florida’s eastern coast during an emergency approach on Wednesday evening. The aircraft reportedly experienced mechanical problems shortly after departure, prompting the pilot to attempt a controlled water landing several miles offshore. U.S. Coast Guard crews, local marine units, and nearby civilian boaters responded rapidly to distress calls and rescued all passengers and crew from the water within roughly 40 minutes. Several survivors sustained minor injuries and symptoms of hypothermia, but authorities reported no fatalities. (AP)
5. South Carolina Supreme Court Overturns Alex Murdaugh Murder Convictions
The South Carolina Supreme Court overturned the murder convictions of former attorney Alex Murdaugh, ruling that jury-related misconduct during the original trial compromised his constitutional right to a fair proceeding. The court determined that actions and comments by Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill improperly influenced jurors during deliberations, including statements that prosecutors later argued were harmless but appellate judges viewed as prejudicial. Murdaugh had been convicted in 2023 for the murders of his wife, Maggie Murdaugh, and son, Paul Murdaugh, in one of the most closely watched criminal trials in the United States. (AP)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Backs CLARITY Act Ahead of Congressional Markup
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong publicly endorsed the proposed CLARITY Act ahead of a key congressional markup scheduled for Thursday, calling the legislation an important step toward establishing a clearer regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States. The bill is designed to define jurisdictional boundaries between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), particularly regarding whether cryptocurrencies should be classified as securities or commodities. Armstrong argued that regulatory uncertainty has slowed innovation, pushed companies offshore, and complicated institutional adoption of blockchain technologies. (CoinDesk)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
-Institutional Concerns-
NSTR
-Economic Indicators-
1. U.S. stock market close
U.S. markets closed mixed Wednesday as technology and artificial-intelligence stocks pushed the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite to fresh record highs, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined slightly. The S&P 500 gained 43.29 points to close at 7,444.25, while the Nasdaq surged 314.14 points to finish at 26,402.34. The Dow fell 67.36 points to close at 49,693.20, reflecting weakness in industrial and defensive sectors. (AP)
2. Honda Posts First-Ever Annual Loss After Pullback From EV Strategy
Honda Motor Co. reported its first annual net loss in company history after scaling back several electric-vehicle investments amid slowing global EV demand and rising manufacturing costs. The company cited weak sales growth in North America and Europe, declining margins on battery-electric vehicles, and expensive restructuring tied to canceled or delayed EV production projects. Honda executives stated the firm will shift focus toward hybrid vehicles and internal-combustion platforms in the near term while continuing selective investment in next-generation battery technology. (Reuters)
-Security Concerns-
1. Foxconn Confirms Cyberattack and Data Theft
Foxconn, one of the world’s largest electronics manufacturers and a major supplier to Apple, has confirmed that a recent Foxconn cyberattack disrupted operations at several of its North American facilities. According to online reports, a ransomware group known as Nitrogen claimed responsibility for the incident and alleged that it stole massive amounts of company data.
The Nitrogen ransomware group claimed earlier this week that it exfiltrated more than eight terabytes of data from Foxconn systems. The group alleged that the stolen information included over 11 million files. Researchers also said the attackers claimed to possess schematics connected to several major technology companies that work with Foxconn. (Cyberexpress)
-Technology and Science-
1. U.S. Approves Nvidia H200 AI Chip Sales to 10 Chinese Firms
The U.S. Commerce Department approved export licenses allowing Nvidia to sell H200 artificial-intelligence chips to 10 Chinese companies under tightly controlled conditions, marking a significant adjustment to ongoing U.S. semiconductor restrictions against China. Officials stated the approvals apply only to specific commercial and research applications considered below the threshold of direct military or advanced strategic risk. The H200 chip is one of Nvidia’s most advanced AI accelerators and is widely used for large language models, high-performance computing, and data-center AI training workloads. The decision comes amid broader U.S.–China negotiations over trade, technology access, and supply-chain stability during President Trump’s meetings with Chinese leadership in Beijing.(FT)
2. SpaceX Targets May 19 for Next Starship Test Flight
SpaceX is targeting May 19 for the next integrated Starship test flight from its Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas, pending final FAA launch approval and range-clearance conditions. The mission, informally referred to by observers as the third major operational-phase Starship flight sequence, is expected to focus on improved orbital insertion performance, heat-shield durability, and controlled reentry testing following mixed results from previous launches. SpaceX engineers have reportedly completed static-fire testing of both the Super Heavy booster and upper-stage Starship vehicle ahead of the planned launch window. (Live Science)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 46/100 (down 3)
Analyst Comments NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 949,941
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 18May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Oil at Highs, Iran Conflict Sparks Up / Russia Pounds Ukraine / EU Adopts Anti-Migration Stance / US Navy Jets Colide in Idaho / Three Shooters in Austin Spree Captured / Thousands Gather With Politicians for Prayer on National Mall / CLARITY Moving Forward / Iran Launches Bitcoin Payments For Passing Strait / Bitcoin Depot Files For Bankruptcy / Wilklevii Toss In Bitcoin to Gemini / Stocks Down, Yields Up / MacOS Needs Updates for AI / Waymos Wander in Atlanta Neighborhood / Iran Wants to Charge for Undersea Cables Too
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $77,986, 16.95 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.62 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $78,511 / Lo: $76,568
Volume: $29B (Up 56%)
Mkt Cap: $1.55T (Down 1%)
Hashrate: .959 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1.0 sats/byte (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Oil touches two-week high after drone attack on UAE nuclear power plant: Brent crude futures were up 57 cents, or 0.52%, at $109.83 a barrel after touching $112 for their highest since May 5. Drone attacks on the UAE and Saudi Arabia and the rhetoric from the United States and Iran raised concerns of an escalation in the conflict. Emirati officials, meanwhile, said they were investigating the source of the strike on the Barakah nuclear power plant, adding that the UAE had the right to respond to what it said were "terrorist attacks". (Reuters)
2. Russia unleashes another aerial barrage on Ukraine as the war’s long-range strikes escalate: Russia targeted eight regions of Ukraine in its latest nighttime drone and missile barrage, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday, with local authorities reporting that the strikes wounded more than two dozen civilians, including three children. Russian forces fired 524 attack drones and 22 ballistic and cruise missiles. (AP)
3. All 46 Council of Europe Nations Adopt Migration Declaration: All 46 Council of Europe member states adopted a non-binding declaration on Friday in Chisinau, Moldova, that aims to make deportations of foreign criminals and failed asylum seekers easier, endorses third-country return hubs like Italy's Albania facility, and limits migrants' ability to block removal based on family ties or healthcare differences. (GroundNews)
-US Events-
1. Two Navy jets crash midair as crew successfully ejects during Idaho military base air show: Two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler jets collided midair during the second day of the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday, though all four crew members successfully ejected, the U.S. Navy confirmed. (Fox)
2. Three suspects in custody after south Austin shootings, 4 people injured: Three suspects were in custody Sunday evening after at least 10 shootings in the south Austin area over the weekend, which injured four people. MPD and Travis County Sheriff’s Office issued shelter-in-place warning during the search for a portion of the area around 4:45 p.m. The suspects were responsible for around 20 911 calls, primarily in south and east Austin, Davis said. She said the suspects allegedly fired into various buildings, apartment complexes and two Austin Fire Department stations, hitting a firetruck. (KXAN)
3. Thousands Gather on National Mall for Rededicate 250 Prayer Event: The 'Rededicate 250' event, organized by Freedom 250, featured worship music, Scripture readings, and speeches from leaders like President Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Trump read from 2 Chronicles via video, promising God's healing if the nation humbles itself, while Vance highlighted a resurgence of faith among young Americans and Johnson led a prayer affirming 'One Nation Under God.' Supporters saw it as patriotic renewal ahead of the 2026 semiquincentennial, though critics questioned church-state separation and its conservative leanings. (X)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. CLARITY Act could be signed into law by President Donald Trump in early August — Galaxy Digital: The CLARITY Act could be signed into law in the week of Aug. 3 if Congress keeps pace after a bipartisan Senate Banking Committee vote moved the crypto market structure bill into its next phase, Galaxy Digital’s research arm said. The bill now moves into a more complicated stretch, in which the Senate Banking Committee text must be combined with a version advanced by the Senate Agriculture Committee before Senate leaders can bring the measure to the floor. (CryptoSlate)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Bitcoin Hormuz payments for ship insurance will test crypto’s neutral money thesis: IRGC-affiliated Fars News reported on May 16 that Iran launched a platform called Hormuz Safe, offering digital insurance for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz WITH PREMIUMS SETTLED IN BITCOIN. A document cited by Fars's reporter indicated Iran's Economy Ministry had been developing the mechanism since early May, with projected revenue above $10 billion. If Hormuz Safe becomes operational and draws enough shipping participants to generate a traceable pattern of Bitcoin payments, every address associated with the mechanism becomes a potential OFAC target. Iran's position, cut off from correspondent banking, SWIFT, and Western maritime insurers, is the environment in which Bitcoin's peer-to-peer settlement will operate. For Bitcoin advocates, a verified Hormuz Safe mechanism would be concrete proof of concept for a live, unilaterally functional settlement rail operating in a jurisdiction where regulators foreclosed every conventional option. (CryptoSlate) (AC-A strong test of the 'Bitcoin is for everybody' theory.)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Crypto ATM Operator Bitcoin Depot Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: Bitcoin Depot, North America's largest Bitcoin ATM operator, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and shut down its entire network of over 9,000 machines. CEO Alex Holmes blamed an increasingly hostile regulatory landscape for the publicly-traded company's collapse in a statement, arguing that the regulatory environment for Bitcoin ATM operators operators has “shifted significantly,” rendering Bitcoin Depot’s business model “unsustainable.” (Decrypt) (AC-Not unexpected.)
2. Gemini Stock Jumps After Winklevoss Twins Make $100M Bitcoin Bet on Company Future: Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss announced a $100 million Bitcoin-funded investment into Gemini alongside a Q1 earnings report showing 42% year-over-year revenue growth. (BitcoinMag)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Yield Hits 16-Month High: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note climbed to around 4.63% on Monday, reaching its highest level since January 2025 as mounting inflationary pressures tied to the Middle East conflict fueled expectations of a Federal Reserve interest rate hike later this year. (TradingEconomics)
2. US Stocks Fall Sharply: Stocks fell sharply on Friday as investors grew increasingly concerned about the impact of the prolonged conflict with Iran, particularly the risk that higher energy prices could further fuel inflation and keep interest rates elevated. The S&P 500 lost 1.2%, the Nasdaq Composite dropped 1.5% and the Dow Jones fell 1.1%. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. OpenAI asks macOS users to update after TanStack npm supply chain attack: Users on macOS have to update their OpenAI applications by June 12, after which they will no longer receive updates or support and the service may not function. The actions are being taken in light of an expanding supply chain campaign impacting the popular open-source library TanStack and additional npm and PyPI packages tied to several AI companies. (RecordedFuture)
-Technology and Science-
1. Packs of Empty Waymos Are Weirding Out Atlanta Neighborhood: Residents in one Atlanta neighborhood say their mornings now begin with empty robotaxis slowly looping through their cul-de-sac before sunrise. Residents along Battleview Drive in northwest Atlanta said Waymo vehicles have spent recent weeks repeatedly circling their dead-end street, sometimes in large waves between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. One resident estimated about 50 vehicles passed through in a single hour. (Decrypt)
2. Iran Demands Cable Fees From Google and Meta That US Sanctions Forbid Them to Pay: Iran's military spokesperson declared last week that Tehran will impose fees on the submarine fiber-optic cables beneath the Strait of Hormuz — issuing demands that US companies Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon are legally barred from meeting under American sanctions law, and threatening that cables could be disrupted if operators refuse to comply. IRGC's combat divers, Ghadir-class mini-submarines, and underwater drones give Tehran a credible physical capability to threaten seabed infrastructure and that any attack could trigger a cascading digital catastrophe across several regions.(TechTimes)
-Bitcoin Community
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 28/100 (Down 21 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 949,210
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 13May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Trump in China / Senators Warn Against Cuba Attack / FL to Close Alligator Alcatraz / US Colleges' International Students Down 20% / WSJ Journalist Subpoenaed for Leaks / CLARITY Flooded With Markups / Senate Confirms Warsh to Fed Board / Polish Party Wants to Ban All Crypto / Exodus 'Expands' Past Bitcoin / MARA Pivots / Inflation Runs Hot, Stocks Drop / Canvas Pays Off Hackers / Square Pushes Bitcoin Adoption
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $80,080, 17.13 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.35 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $81,276 / Lo: $79,832
Volume: $30B (Up 1%)
Mkt Cap: $1.61T (Even)
Hashrate: .986 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2.0 sats/byte (Up 1 sat)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. China stresses ‘equality, respect’ as Trump heads to Beijing for high-stakes Xi talks: “China stands ready to work with the United States in the spirit of equality, respect and mutual benefit – expanding cooperation, managing differences, and injecting greater stability and certainty into a turbulent and changing world,” Guo said. Guo’s remarks came hours after Trump posted on social media that he would “be asking President Xi, a Leader of extraordinary distinction, to ‘open up’ China so that these brilliant people can work their magic”, referring to more than a dozen business executives travelling with him on Air Force One. (SCMP)
2. Senate Republicans warn Trump against Cuba military attack: The Trump administration, these Republicans say, should not be thinking about opening another front for the military in a midterm election year where voters are already showing their displeasure with the war in Iran. In recent days, the U.S. Navy and Air Force have increased the number of intelligence gathering flights off of Cuba’s coast, renewing speculation that Trump could order another surprise operation similar to the one that led to the capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January. (TheHill)
-US Events-
1. Florida plans to close 'Alligator Alcatraz' migrant detention center: Florida is closing the 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention center in the Everglades, with officials notifying vendors on Tuesday that 1,400 detainees will be removed by the start of June. Operating costs have reached nearly $1 billion, with the state spending more than $1 million daily to manage the center while awaiting $608 million in federal reimbursements. Contractors received orders to begin demobilization in the coming weeks, a process that includes taking down fences and trailers once the final detainees are transferred or deported. (GroundNews)
2. US Colleges Report 20% Drop in Foreign Students Over Visa Clampdown: Foreign student enrollment at U.S. universities fell by 20% this spring, according to a report published Monday by NAFSA surveying 149 American schools. Eighty-Four percent of surveyed schools cited "restrictive government policies" as the primary cause, following last year's Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions that created a climate of fear. (GroundNews)
3. Acting US attorney general defends subpoenas for journalists, citing classified leaks: Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche on Tuesday defended issuing subpoenas to journalists as part of investigations into leaks of classified information. Blanche did not name any outlet in a post on X, but his remarks came a day after The Wall Street Journal reported receiving grand jury subpoenas tied to Iran war coverage. (France24)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. US senators file over 100 amendments to crypto bill ahead of markup: According to a list obtained by Politico, Democratic senators have proposed dozens of changes, while Republicans are seeking slight adjustments to the bill. A version of the bill released on Monday banned third-party platforms like crypto exchanges from offering yield on stablecoins in a way that is “functionally equivalent” to the payment of interest on an interest-bearing bank deposit. (CoinTelegraph)
2. Senate Confirms Bitcoin-Friendly Kevin Warsh to Fed Board, Clearing Path to Chairmanship: President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh, cleared a key Senate hurdle Tuesday, putting a bitcoin-friendly former Fed governor one vote away from becoming the most powerful central banker in the world. (BitcoinMag)
3. Poland’s PiS Proposes Total Crypto Ban As Lawmakers Review Digital Asset Bills: As Lawmakers open debate on four competing crypto bills, Poland’s former governing party has shifted its stance and introduced legislation to ban all digital asset activities in the country. (Bitcoinist)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bitcoin Wallet Firm Exodus Expands Payments Push, Sells $87 Million in BTC: Publicly traded wallet company Exodus (EXOD) is moving beyond the wallet category, expanding its focus and also becoming a payments company. To further fuel its transition, the firm also launched XO Cash, a dollar-backed stablecoin it claims is the first built for AI agents. (Decrypt) (AC-The conflation between Bitcoin and crypto continues.)
2. Bitcoin Miner MARA Sells $1.5 Billion in BTC, Reports $1.26 Billion Q1 Loss: MARA Holdings, the Nasdaq-listed Bitcoin mining firm, sold 20,880 Bitcoin for $1.5 billion in the first quarter of 2026 as part of a strategic pivot from large-scale mining toward artificial intelligence and high-performance computing infrastructure. The company has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Long Ridge Energy from FTAI Infrastructure for nearly $1.5 billion and is cutting 15% of its workforce to achieve $12 million in annualized cost savings while halting large-scale mining equipment purchases. (Decrypt) (AC- MARA making big changes.)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Inflation Rate Above Forecasts: The annual inflation rate (CPI) in the US accelerated to 3.8% in April 2026, the highest since May 2023, and compared to 3.3% in March. Figures came above forecasts of 3.7% as the oil shock triggered by the war with Iran continues to push prices higher. (TradingEconomics)
2. US Stocks Fall from Records: US equities fell from record highs on Tuesday after a hot April CPI report consolidated worries that higher energy prices may dent earnings prospectives. The Nasdaq dropped 2%, while the S&P 500 and Dow were around 1% lower. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Instructure pays ransom after Canvas incident as Congress announces investigation: Education technology firm Instructure paid a ransom to hackers who stole troves of information from a platform used by thousands of schools. Late on Monday evening, the company published a note confirming their decision to pay the ShinyHunters cybercriminal group. The company said its agreement with the hackers involved their data being “returned” to them and digital confirmation of data destruction. (RecordedFuture)
-Technology and Science-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Community
1. Square Crosses 1 Million Bitcoin-Enabled Merchants as Real-World Adoption Continues to Grow: Block, Inc.’s Square has auto-enabled roughly 1 million U.S. merchants to accept Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network, letting customers pay in BTC while merchants automatically receive USD settlements with near-instant conversion in the background. Bitcoin Product Lead Miles Suter said BTC “must circulate, not just sit still,” arguing that the cryptocurrency loses its transformational value if it does not function as peer-to-peer cash. (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 49/100 (Up 1 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 949,071
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 12May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: UAE Enters Iran Conflict / Drones From Hezbollah Cloud Peace Deals / UK PM Starmer Under Fire / Shooter With Rifle Wounds 2 in MA / VA Officials Plead to SCOTUS Over Gerrymander Obstacles / Mayor of Acadia, CA Pleads Guilty to China Support / CLARITY Vote Set for Thursday / Bhutan City Courts Digital Business / Small Biz Not Optimistic, Stocks Up / Three TN Men Indicted Over CA Wrench Attacks / Canvas Hack Troubles College Final Exams / FBI Onboard With Crime-Fighting AI / Lowery's Power Projection Ideas Researched by DOW
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $80,618, 17.37 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.31 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $82,098 / Lo: $80,451
Volume: $31B (Down 9%)
Mkt Cap: $1.61T (Even)
Hashrate: .980 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1.0 sats/byte (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. UAE Secretly Struck Iran's Lavan Island Refinery: The United Arab Emirates conducted covert airstrikes on Iran's Lavan Island oil refinery in early April, sparking a major fire and disabling much of the facility's capacity for months, according to The Wall Street Journal. Iran retaliated with over 2,800 missiles and drones targeting the UAE, more than any other country in the conflict. (GroundNews) (AC- With direct offensive intervention, the UAE is widening the conflict to more participants but also broadening into an economic front. With the US, Israel and UAE involved, it's looking more like a wolfpack surrounding and attacking it's prey.)
2. Evolving drone war in southern Lebanon clouds Iran peace prospects: While Washington and Tehran argue over a deal to end the attacks on shipping that are shaking the world economy, Iran's most powerful ally Hezbollah and Israel are stepping up a drone war in Lebanon - on camera - that is complicating the path to peace. In recent weeks, Hezbollah has used cheap, easy-to-assemble FPV kamikaze drones to transform the war it has been fighting since it began firing on Israel. (Reuters)
3. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces growing calls to quit: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is fighting to save his premiership after almost 80 lawmakers from his governing center-left Labour Party have publicly called for him to resign or set a timetable for his departure. The Labour Party mutiny was spurred by disastrous results in last week’s local elections, which saw it lose more than 1,400 seats in English councils and the hard-right Reform UK party was the main beneficiary of Labour’s slump. (CNN)
-US Events-
1. Armed Gunman Wounds Two in Cambridge Traffic Shooting Stopped by Trooper and Civilian: Tyler Brown, 46, from Boston, allegedly unleashed 50 to 60 rounds from an assault-style rifle on Memorial Drive near River Street around 1:30 p.m. Monday, striking an MBTA bus driver in the head—who drove himself to the hospital—and another motorist; both remain in critical condition. Hours earlier, his parole officer reported suicidal statements, and police had warned he might be heading there armed after missing a meeting. Brown, with a long record of violent convictions including a 2021 armed assault guilty plea, was shot in the legs by a Massachusetts State Police trooper and a legally armed former Marine, then hospitalized in custody facing murder attempt charges. (X)
2. Virginia Democrats Seek Supreme Court’s Intervention over VA Supreme Court Gerrymander Ruling: Democrats in Virginia are requesting the Supreme Court’s intervention after the Virginia Supreme Court killed a gerrymander scheme that would have redrawn the state’s congressional map in the Democrats’ favor, prior to the midterm elections. (Breitbart)
3. Mayor of Californian city resigns over Chinese agent charge: Eileen Wang, 58 - the mayor of Arcadia - agreed to plead guilty to the felony count and Arcadia City Council said she resigned from her post on Monday. Wang is accused of following directions from Chinese officials, according to the DoJ, including sharing favourable articles about Beijing without informing the US government, as required by law. (BBC)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Clarity Act Vote Set for Thursday: Here's Where the Crypto Bill Stands: Several battles regarding key language in the legislation remain unresolved—but crypto policy leaders are increasingly confident they may be able to get the bill passed at the buzzer, before Congress grinds to a halt this summer in anticipation of November’s midterm elections. (Decrypt) (AC-A fascinating fight that reveals economic, political and discursive power with the concerns of normal people not even being considered.)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bhutan's Gelephu Mindfulness City launches fast-track licensing for regulated crypto firms: The city said the initiative will enable qualified firms to quickly advance from the application stage to full operations by offering an integrated review that combines regulatory and banking access. (TheBlock)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Small Business Optimism Stagnates in April: The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index in the US held steady at 95.9 in April 2026, barely changed from March’s 11-month low of 95.8 and slightly below market expectations of 96.1. The index remained below its 52-year average of 98.0 for the second consecutive month. TradingEconomics)
2. S&P and Nasdaq Hit New Records: US stocks rose on Monday, rebounding from a subdued start to the session, as the S&P 500 added 0.2% and the Nasdaq gained 0.1% to reach fresh record highs, supported by a strong rally in chipmakers amid continued optimism over AI-driven demand. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Three Indicted Over ‘Brazen’ Crypto Wrench Attack Spree in California: Three Tennessee men have been federally indicted on robbery, kidnapping, and conspiracy charges related to an alleged multi-million dollar cryptocurrency theft operation targeting victims across California. Elijah Armstrong, Nino Chindavanh, and Jayden Rucker traveled from Tennessee to California and posed as delivery persons to gain access to victims' residences in San Francisco, San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Los Angeles. Prosecutors said the men used firearms, duct tape, and zip ties to assault their victims, binding and restraining them to force disclosure of cryptocurrency account information. (Decrypt)
2. Multiple universities forced to reschedule final exams after Canvas cyber incident: Universities across the U.S. were forced to delay final exams this week following a cyberattack on a popular education software provider. The message, from the ShinyHunters cybercriminal gang, said they breached Instructure "again" after the company did not negotiate a ransom following a breach last week. The schools urged students to be wary of phishing messages and to stay away from the Canvas platform until it is confirmed to be safe. Baylor University noted in its message that Canvas “supports learning at 41% of higher education institutions in North America.” (RecordedFuture)
-Technology and Science-
1. Kash Patel Touts AI Overhaul of FBI Crime-Fighting Operations: Artificial intelligence is a huge part of that overhaul. When then-Deputy Director Dan Bongino and I arrived here at headquarters, AI had almost zero role at the FBI,” Patel wrote. “That had to change, so we got to work.” Now, Patel said the FBI uses AI tools at its National Threat Operations Center to transcribe incoming calls, summarize threats, compare tips against existing cases, and rank leads by severity—a process he claimed recently helped agents stop a planned mass shooting at a North Carolina preschool. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Community
1. What does Bitcoin “Power Projection” mean to the U.S. Military?: On April 21st and 22nd 2026, during a Senate Armed Services Committee, Admiral Samuel Paparo of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command made comments on Bitcoin’s utility in cybersecurity for the country’s military, calling it a “valuable computer science tool as power projection,” and disclosing that INCOPACOM is running a Bitcoin node in their experiments with the protocol. The most obvious and powerful demonstration of Bitcoin’s “embedded logic” security is the invention of multisignature Bitcoin wallets, which safeguard much of the Bitcoin wealth today. Multisig imposes high costs on attackers and, as such, might very well fit the definition of ‘deterrence’. It may even fit the definition of ‘power projection’ as Bitcoin funds can be kept secure and available to be sent when needed anywhere in the world, thanks to Bitcoin’s other networking-based censorship resistance qualities. (BitcoinMag) (AC- A good primer on the concepts put out by @jasonPLowery and SoftWar.)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 49/100 (Up 1 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 948,456
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 08May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Iran Launches Missiles, Drones at UAE / North Korea Deploys New Artillery, Destroyer / China Suspends Death Sentence of Generals / Green Beret Found Dead in Tennessee / Disney Cruise Employees Arrestd on Child Porn / White House Wants CLARITY on July 4th / IMF Wants AI Regulations / Coinbase Earning Disappoint, Site Goes Down for Hours / Strategy's STRC Yield Stable / UST Yields, Stocks Steady / Meta and Google Are Scooping Up your AI Chats / Iranian Hackers Still At It / Artemis Accords Grow / Stratum V2 Working Group Grows
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $80,205, 17.01 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.33 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $81,166 / Lo: $79,205
Volume: $38B (Up 7%)
Mkt Cap: $1.6T (Down 1%)
Hashrate: .973 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2.0 sats/byte (Up 1 sat)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. UAE reports drone and missile attack as Iran war ceasefire is challenged: The Iran war’s shaky ceasefire was further strained on Friday as the United Arab Emirates said it intercepted a missile and drone strikes, hours after the U.S. said it thwarted attacks on three Navy ships in the Strait of Hormuz and retaliated against Iranian military facilities. There were no immediate reports of damage in the UAE. (AP)
2. North Korea says it will deploy new artillery guns targeting Seoul and commission its 1st destroyer: The announcement comes days after South Korea said North Korea’s newly revised constitution drops all references to Korean unification, in line with leader Kim Jong Un’s vows to terminate ties with South Korea and establish a two-state system on the Korean Peninsula. (NBC) (AC-Now we know where the stolen cyrpto goes.)
3. China gives suspended death sentences to two former defense ministers: Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu were both convicted of bribery and given the death penalty with a two-year reprieve by the country’s military court. The court announced that the two former generals’ sentences will be commuted to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole after two years. (CNN) (AC-Retirement in the CCP's PLA/N has a very different meaning than other countries.)
-US Events-
1. Special forces veteran at center of manhunt after allegedly shooting his wife found dead in Tennessee: The Stewart County Sheriff’s Office reports that Craig Berry, the special forces veteran at the center of a multi-day manhunt, was found dead on Wednesday. The sheriff’s office confirmed that initial indications show Berry died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Deputies and other law enforcement agencies have been searching for Berry since the morning of Friday, May 1, after he allegedly shot his wife. He was charged with second-degree attempted murder. (WSMV)
2. Disney Does Damage Control After Several Staffers Arrested on Cruise Ship in Massive Child Porn Sting: We have a zero-tolerance policy for this type of behavior and fully cooperated with law enforcement,” a Disney spokesperson said responding to news of arrests being made after federal agents boarded five cruise ships, including a Disney cruise docked in San Diego, between April 23 and 25. (Breitbart)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. White House Targets July 4 for Clarity Act Passage: Senate Banking Committee markup is set for May, with a Senate floor vote in June and House passage before Independence Day, Witt said.
Senators Tillis and Alsobrooks reached compromise Friday on contentious stablecoin-yield provisions. (Decrypt)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. IMF Warns AI Will Supercharge Cyberattacks on Global Financial System: AI tools like Anthropic's Claude Mythos Preview are dramatically lowering the bar for cyberattacks, enabling even unskilled actors to exploit vulnerabilities across major systems. The IMF urges policymakers to treat cybersecurity as a core financial stability issue, calling for stronger resilience standards, cross-border coordination, and AI-powered defenses to match AI-powered attacks. (Decrypt)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Coinbase went down for over 5 hours after missing earnings. Bulls still see a path to $300 billion by 2030: The company posted a loss of $1.49 per share, compared with expectations for a profit, as weaker trading activity weighed on its largest revenue stream. The company also recorded about $4.2 billion in first-quarter derivatives trading volume, up 169% from the same period a year earlier. That growth supports Armstrong’s “everything exchange” plan, which aims to make Coinbase a venue not only for buying and selling Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other tokens but also for derivatives, real-world assets, prediction markets, and, eventually, other forms of financial exposure. That message was complicated by the service disruption that followed the earnings release. The issue was linked to elevated temperatures at a data center in Northern Virginia. (CryptoSlate) (AC-Coinbase is the biggest centralized exchange in the world for cyrpto and bitcoin, and their fiat-driven machinations will affect bitcoin holders at some level. It's good to keep an eye on them.)
2. Strategy’s STRC Stock Surges to $100 Par Value amid Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Buzz: In an X post on May 8, BitcoinTreasuries revealed that Strategy’s STRC stock just surged to hit $100 par value. The Variable Rate Series A Perpetual Stretch Preferred Stock (STRC) currently pays 11.50% annual dividends, payable monthly in cash. (CoinGape)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Yield Holds Advance: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note hovered around 4.39% on Friday, following an advance of about 3 basis points in the previous session, as renewed US-Iran clashes in the Strait of Hormuz reduced expectations for an imminent peace deal and reignited inflation concerns.
2. US Stocks Finish Lower: US stocks fell from records on Thursday, as investors watched for Iran's response to the US peace proposal that could pave the way for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen. The Dow lost 0.6%, pulling back from the 50,000 mark, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq fell 0.4% and 0.1%, respectively, easing off record highs.
-Security Concerns-
1. Your AI Chatbot May Be Leaking Your Chats to Meta, TikTok and Google: Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute published findings on May 4 showing that all four of the biggest AI assistants—ChatGPT, Claude, Grok, and Perplexity—quietly share data with third-party advertising and analytics services, including Meta, Google, and TikTok. The project, called LeakyLM, identified more than 13 trackers embedded across these platforms. Zero of them are disclosed to users in plain language. (Decrypt)
2. Iranian government hackers using Chaos ransomware as cover, researchers say: Multiple nation-state groups from China, Russia, North Korea and Iran have been seen adopting the ransomware-as-a-service framework as either cover for espionage attacks or as ways to cause disruptions to adversaries. (RecordedFuture)
-Technology and Science-
1. Artemis Accords Update: Malta Becomes the Latest Country to Join: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has announced that Malta is the 65th signatory of the Artemis Accords. The Artemis Accords, which was initiated during President Donald Trump's first term, is defined by NASA as "the first set of practical principles aimed at enhancing the safety and coordination between like-minded nations as they explore the Moon, Mars, and beyond." (TechTimes) (AC-Noteably, Russia and China are not signatories.)
-Bitcoin Community
1. ANTPOOL, Block Inc, F2Pool, Foundry, Spiderpool, MARA Foundation & DMND Join Stratum v2 Working Group: The working group was founded in 2022 by Braiins and Spiral to develop and maintain the Stratum v2 protocol as an open and vendor-neutral specification usable by the Bitcoin mining ecosystem. The protocol is an upgrade to the original Stratum mining protocol, bringing massive efficiency gains, privacy, security, and functionality that can be used to improve overall mining decentralization. (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 38/100 (Down 9 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 948,310
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 07May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Iran Envoy Meets With China / ASEAN Meeting Addresses Oil / Hantavirus Cases Were Human Transmitted / Tennessee To Gerrymander Dems Out / VP Vance Reveals SNAP Fraud / New US Counterterror Strategy Released / Banking Lobby Aggression Ramps Up on CLARITY / ebay Should Consider New Payments System Istead / Job Losses Up, Stocks Up / Chrome is Installing Big Software Without Your Knowledge / Musk's xAI Cuts Deal With Anthropic
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $81,090, 17.07 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.33 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $82,213 / Lo: $80,563
Volume: $35B (Down 20%)
Mkt Cap: $1.62T (Down 2%)
Hashrate: .969 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1.0 sats/byte (Down 1 sat)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. China’s top envoy meets with Iran’s in Beijing as Trump pauses US effort in the Strait: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, in Beijing on Wednesday morning. Meanwhile, Trump is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to Beijing next week, as both countries seek to stabilise a relationship strained by tensions over trade, Taiwan and the Iran war. (Reuters, CNN)
2. ASEAN summit kicks off with calls for joint response to energy crisis: Concerns of energy and food supply security following a blockade of the critical Strait of Hormuz weigh heavy on the bloc of 11 nations, home to nearly 700 million and one of the regions worst-hit after the Iran war choked off energy supplies. (Reuters)
3. Hantavirus latest updates: Confirmed cases rise to 5 from Dutch cruise ship: Three people – a Dutch couple and a German national – have died in the outbreak on the MV Hondius. There are eight confirmed or suspected cases in total. People in three U.S. states – California, Georgia and Arizona – were being monitored for possible infections, though none had shown signs of illness. In the three confirmed cases on the cruise ship, the patients tested positive for the Andes strain, which can be transmitted among people. (Yahoo)
-US Events-
1. Tennessee unveils new congressional map poised to erase Dem seat: Tennessee’s new map aims to draw the state’s lone Democratic congressional representative — Rep. Steve Cohen — out of his Memphis-area seat by splitting up majority-Black Shelby County. (Politico)
2. JD Vance Reveals SNAP Fraud Including Benefits to 186,000 Dead People: Speaking in Des Moines on May 5, Vance announced his task force uncovered massive SNAP fraud from 29 cooperating states, including 355,000 duplicate enrollments and benefits to the deceased. (X)
3. Trump Counterterrorism Strategy: Aggressive Response, Border Security, Hemispheric Safety: The new White House Counterterrorism (CT) Strategy document looks to seize the initiative from terrorists and criminal cartels by taking aggressive action against hostile regimes, keeping America’s borders secure to minimize threats at home, and pushing malign foreign influence out of the Western Hemisphere. The new CT Strategy recognized that threats close to the American homeland are the most immediate and dangerous, so it prioritized “neutralization of hemispheric terror threats by incapacitating cartel operations until these groups are incapable of bringing their drugs, their members, and their trafficked victims into the United States.” (Breitbart) (AC-The new US counterterror strategy will directly affect military units and focus on threats a bit closer to home.)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Banking lobby attempts to kill Clarity Act’s stablecoin progress as markup is scheduled for next week: US banks are mounting an aggressive lobbying effort to stall the CLARITY Act, even as key US lawmakers signal a fast-tracked timeline to put the bill on the president’s desk before July 4. US banks say stablecoin-reward language still leaves loopholes, while lawmakers argue the compromise is needed to move the CLARITY Act forward. (CryptoSlate)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Why eBay Should Ignore GameStop and Use Bitcoin to Save $1.2 Billion in Transaction Costs: Ryan Cohen’s unsolicited $55.5 billion unsolicited bid to absorb eBay into GameStop has the corporate world doing a double-take. eBay’s board doesn’t need a smaller, meme-backed retailer to step in and aggressively strip its budget to find efficiency. Instead, they can look at a real-world blueprint proving that true operational efficiency isn’t found by gutting marketing, it’s found by upgrading the payment layer. By taking a page out of the broader digital asset ecosystem and looking at how legacy brand Steak ‘n Shake just revolutionized its business model, eBay can unlock a massive structural victory completely on its own terms. (BitcoinMag)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Job Cuts Rise to 3-Month High: US-based employers announced 83,387 job cuts in April 2026, the most in three months, compared to 60,620 in March, but down 21% from the same month last year. April’s total is the third highest for an April month since 2009, with tech (33,361) announcing the most jobs, followed by warehousing (5,743) and services (4,110). Artificial Intelligence led all reasons for job cuts for the second month in a row, with 26% of total cuts. (TradingEconomics)
2. US Stocks Rise to New Records: US stocks rose on Wednesday as a potential end to the war with Iran improved the macroeconomic backdrop, while a series of strong earnings boosted AI stocks. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq rose over 1% to new records, and the Dow added 600 points. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
NSTR
-Technology and Science-
1. Chrome Is Quietly Installing a 4GB AI Model on Your Computer—And Putting It Back If You Delete It: Chrome silently downloads a ~4GB Gemini Nano file called weights.bin to eligible devices with no opt-in prompt, and automatically re-downloads it if deleted. This unauthorised download affects all operating systems using Chrome. (Decrypt)
2. Elon Musk's SpaceX Will Help Power Anthropic's Claude in Surprise AI Deal: Elon Musk's SpaceX/xAI signed a deal to provide Anthropic access to the Colossus 1 AI supercomputer cluster. Anthropic said the added compute power will improve capacity for Claude Pro and Claude Max users. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Community
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 47/100 (Up 1 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): Some days the noise is much greater than the signal, like today. This is an opportunity to focus on those few things that do matter.
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 948,160
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 06May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Iran Ceasefire Barely Holds / French Ship Attacked in Hormuz / US Takes Lead in Oil Production / Alberta Has Signatures For Separation Vote / Vivek Gets GOP Nomination in Ohio / SF Vet in Tennessee Shoots Wife, Goes on E&E / Pratt's Ads in LA Mayor Race Strike a Chord / Coloumbian President Looks at Bitcoin Mining / Strategy Says They Could Sell / French Sequans Does Sell / Coinbase Cuts / Dollar Down, Yields Down, Stocks Up / Phone Location Data for Sale / Photos From Moon Trip Released
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $82,527, 17.56 oz Gold/1 BTC, 4.89 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $82,792 / Lo: $80,751
Volume: $44B (Up 4%)
Mkt Cap: $1.64T (Up 2%)
Hashrate: .962 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2.0 sats/byte (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. UAE reports more attacks from Iran as US says shaky ceasefire holds: Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the effort to escort stranded tankers through the strait as defensive in nature. The UAE's defence ministry said its air defences were again dealing with missile and drone attacks coming from Iran yesterday. (Reuters)
2. French vessel attacked in Strait of Hormuz, several crewmembers wounded: French shipping group CMA CGM said on Wednesday that one of its vessels, the San Antonio, had been targeted in an attack while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in injuries among crew members and damage to the vessel. (JerusalemPost)
3. U.S. Becomes World’s Biggest Oil Producer During Strait of Hormuz Crisis: The United States shipped more than 250 million barrels of crude oil from its wells and storage tanks to overseas buyers over the past nine weeks, becoming a “lifeline for global consumers.” US domestic inventories are quickly depleting, with total oil and fuel stockpiles drawing down for four straight weeks to below historical averages. Meanwhile, America’s oil producers are struggling to keep up,” Bloomberg said. (Breitbart)
4. Alberta separatists say they have enough signatures for referendum on leaving Canada: The Stay Free Alberta group said Monday it formally submitted almost 302,000 signatures after needing 178,000 names to force the province to consider such a ballot measure. The question of separation could go on a province-wide ballot as early as October. A "yes" vote would not trigger independence automatically, as negotiations with the federal government would have to take place. (Fox)
-US Events-
1. Vivek Ramaswamy wins GOP nomination for governor in Ohio: Vivek Ramaswamy won Ohio's Republican primary for governor, defeating Casey Putsch, NBC News projects; he advances to face Democrat Amy Acton, who secured her party's nomination unopposed. (GroundNews)
2. A special forces veteran is accused of shooting his wife and fleeing. A blurry trail camera photo is his last sighting: A blurry photo captured by a trail camera is the last known sighting of Craig Berry, a special forces veteran who is now at the center of a manhunt after he was accused of trying to kill his wife. The shooting happened in the northern Tennessee city of Dover, just south of the Kentucky border. Following the shooting, Berry returned home, changed into camouflage clothing and is believed to have gotten ahold of more ammunition, (CNN) (AC-'Rambo' part 6?)
3. Spencer Pratt's AI Ads Shake Up LA Mayoral Race: Pratt launched his nonpartisan bid in January 2026 after wildfires razed his Pacific Palisades home, blaming Mayor Karen Bass for a sluggish response amid rising homelessness, crime, and business flight. His high-production videos by Menace Studio have drawn millions of views, praise from figures like Jeb Bush and Clay Travis, and a fundraising surge to over $539,000—topping Bass since January. An April UCLA poll shows Bass at 25%, Pratt at 11%, and 40% undecided in the crowded June 2 primary, where the top two advance to November. (X) (AC- If you haven't seen these ads, it's worth looking up.)
-Regulatory and Legal-
NSTR
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Colombian president says Bitcoin mining could transform country's Caribbean coast: Colombia's President Gustavo Petro said the nation’s Caribbean coast has the potential to become a Bitcoin mining hub. Petro said the Caribbean cities of Barranquilla, Santa Marta and Riohacha could host Bitcoin (BTC) mining facilities and tap the country’s clean energy sources, following a path similar to Venezuela and Paraguay in recent years. (CoinTelegraph)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Strategy Mulls Selling Bitcoin to 'Inoculate the Market': Strategy Inc. dropped its longstanding "never sell" Bitcoin pledge on Tuesday, telling investors it would offload BTC when doing so is "advantageous to the company,” a reversal five years in the making that analysts say matters far more as a confidence signal than as a supply shock. (Decrypt)
2. Sequans Sells Half Its Bitcoin Holdings as Revenue Falls and Losses Mount: Paris-based Sequans Communications sold 1,025 bitcoin during the first quarter of 2026, cutting its digital asset reserves nearly in half as the IoT semiconductor maker grappled with declining revenue and mounting losses tied to a treasury strategy that has turned from ambitious to burdensome. (BitcoinMag)
3. Coinbase Cuts 14% of Workforce, Signals AI-Driven Future: Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong took to Twitter to announce that Coinbase will cut 14% of its workforce as part of a shift toward an AI-driven operating model. (BitcoinMag)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Dollar Back to Pre-War Levels: The dollar index fell to 97.7 on Wednesday, returning to pre-war levels, as growing optimism over a potential resolution to the conflict with Iran weighed on the currency. (TradingEconomics)
2. Treasury Yields Fall Sharply: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note fell around 7bps to 4.34% on Wednesday, extending a 2bps decline in the previous session, as a sharp drop in oil prices eased inflation concerns. (TradingEconomics)
3. S&P 500 & Nasdaq Hit New Records: US equities climbed to new highs on Tuesday, buoyed by corporate results and retreat in energy prices that eased concerns about a sharper uptick in inflation this year. The S&P 500 gained 0.8% and the Nasdaq advanced 1.2%, both reaching record levels, while the Dow closed up 0.8%.(TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. FTC bans data broker Kochava from selling sensitive location info: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and data broker Kochava said they agreed to a settlement in which the company and its subsidiary Collective Data Solutions would be blocked from selling, sharing or disclosing sensitive location data without consumers’ explicit consent. The FTC has said that Kochava sold precise geolocation data showing consumers visiting houses of worship and health care clinics without their consent or awareness, an alleged violation of a law barring companies from engaging in unfair and deceptive practices. (RecordedFuture) (AC-It's bad enough to assume government access to your phone's location, but to see your data for sale to the highest bidder is troubling.)
-Technology and Science-
1. NASA released thousands more photos from Artemis II: The collection of more than 12,000 images includes new views and up-close shots not previously seen from the flight. Among the photos are dramatic perspectives of the moon’s rugged, pockmarked surface, showing its countless craters, along with portraits of Earth winking in the distance during the astronauts’ lunar flyby. (NBC)
-Bitcoin Community
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 46/100 (Down 4 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 948,021
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 05May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Ukraine Drones Strike Russian Oil Tankers / Hantavirus Cruise Ship Stuck at Sea / Blackmarket Russian Oil in Demand, OPEC Opens Up / SCOTUS Says Voting Decision Effective Immediately / Two US Troops Missing in Morrocco / SOF Debuts Seaborne Drone in Southeast Asia / Canada, 1st To Allow Bitcoin ATMs, Wants Them Gone / CLARITY Fight Expands / BTC ETFs Up / Institutions Nab 500% of Mined BTC / Stocks Flat, Yields Up / Pentago All-In on AI Deals / Senate Committee Wants Child Protections on AI / Bitcoin TV Debuts
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $80,993, 17.75 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.36 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $81,288 / Lo: $78,506
Volume: $42B (Down 1%)
Mkt Cap: $1.61T (Up 3%)
Hashrate: .952 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2.0 sats/byte (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Ukrainian drones hit Russia's Primorsk port, oil tankers and military ships: the strikes had caused significant damage to the oil terminal port. They also hit an oil tanker, a small Russian Karakurt-class missile ship and a patrol boat in the Baltic Sea. Primorsk, one of Russia's largest export gateways, has capacity to handle 1 million barrels per day of oil supply. (Rueters)
2. Cruise ship outbreak leaves 3 dead as officials delay medical evacuations and probe hantavirus threat: The outbreak is linked to the m/v Hondius, a Dutch-flagged cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. One case of hantavirus infection has been laboratory confirmed, while five additional suspected cases are pending. Of the six people affected, three have died and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa. (Fox)
3. Russia's Oil Revenues Surge As The World Scrambles For Supply: The ongoing disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has led India and China to compete for global oil supplies, mainly from Russia, as well as Saudi Arabia. “The competition for Russian crude between India and China has been intense and will continue to be so for June-loading cargoes. OPEC+ agreed to a modest increase in oil production for June. (ZeroHedge)
-US Events-
1. US Supreme Court lets Voting Rights Act ruling take effect ahead of schedule: On Monday, the Supreme Court allowed its recent Voting Rights ruling to take effect immediately, bypassing the standard 32-day waiting period for Louisiana to redraw congressional maps. The Court's April 29 6-3 decision struck down Louisiana's map as an "unconstitutional gerrymander". (GroundNews)
2. Search underway for 2 U.S. service members missing amid training exercise in Morocco: the soldiers were last seen near ocean cliffs near the Cap Draa Training Area. Initial reports indicate they may have fallen into the ocean, the official said. It is believed the incident may have been a hiking accident, and no foul play is suspected. (CBS)
3. Green Berets Deploy Ship-Killing Drone in Luzon Strait Maritime Strike Exercise: U.S. Army Green Berets with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) controlled the explosive-laden drone and other unmanned maritime systems from Batan Island, one of several territories that make up the Batanes archipelago near Taiwan. The drones used were derived or sourced from the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s Magura class of USVs. (USNINews)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Canada wants to ban crypto ATMs as fraud fears turn Bitcoin access into a political target: The country that gave the world its first crypto ATMs is now preparing to eliminate them entirely. Canada has nearly 4,000 of these machines operating across the country, the highest concentration per capita in the world. And the federal government's Spring Economic Update 2026 has proposed banning them outright. Canadians reported losing more than $704 million to fraud in 2025, bringing total reported losses since 2022 to over $2.4 billion. (CryptoSlate)
2. Crypto Clarity rules may be delayed because Congress is somehow stuck arguing over housing: Lawmakers still need to resolve software developer safe harbor language and a Republican holdout tied to unrelated housing legislation to give a markup to the CLARITY Act. Banks feared issuers paying yield on idle balances would pull deposits out of the traditional system, while crypto firms wanted yield as a product feature. The compromise resolved that dispute by separating activity-based rewards from passive accumulation. (CyrptoSlate)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. Crypto fight at center of FISA extension poised to escalate: While the House initially passed a bill that included the ban, it ultimately punted on passing a Senate measure extending Section 702 without a CBDC provision ahead of an April 30 deadline. Rep. Eric Burlison (R-Mo.) told The Hill earlier this month that “FISA’s the perfect vehicle” to include a CBDC ban. “A central bank digital currency is the ultimate spy tool or power grab from the federal government. If they can control what you can buy and what you can’t buy, that’s — that’s the ultimate [tool],” Burlison said. (WPRI)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. US spot bitcoin ETFs draw $532 million as inflows extend to a third day: BlackRock’s IBIT and Fidelity’s FBTC accounted for around $520 million of the total, with 10 of 13 funds posting zero flows and no outflows recorded. (TheBlock)
2. Bitcoin Supply Squeeze? Institutions Absorbing 500% Of New BTC: “Institutions are slurping up 500%+ of Bitcoin’s daily mined supply,” noted Capriole Investments founder Charles Edwards. (Bitcoinist)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Stocks End Lower as Dow Slides Over 500 Points: US stocks closed lower on Monday, with the S&P 500 slipping 0.4% and the Nasdaq falling 0.2%, pulling back from record highs reached in the previous session. The Dow Jones dropped 557 points. The decline was driven by a renewed surge in oil prices as tensions in the Middle East escalated, heightening concerns about inflation. (TradingEconomics)
2. US 10-Year Treasury Note Hits 9-Month High: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note rose to 4.456% on Monday, the highest since July 2025 as tensions in the Middle East escalated pushing oil prices higher again. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
NSTR
-Technology and Science-
1. Pentagon Signs AI Deals With Google, OpenAI, Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon and SpaceX: The AI systems will operate on classified networks at the highest security levels. The Pentagon's internal AI platform shows rapid early adoption across the department. (Decrypt)
2. Senate Judiciary advances bill that would bar minors from interacting with AI companions: The Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday advanced a bill that would bar artificial intelligence companies from letting children use AI companions. The bill, known as the GUARD Act, also requires that AI chatbots advise users of all ages that they are not human and lack professional credentials. It also makes it a crime for AI companions to knowingly ask kids for sexual content or to produce it. (TheRecord)
-Bitcoin Community
1. Bitcoin Magazine Announces BM TV, a Daily Market Broadcast Set for Summer 2026 Launch: Bitcoin Magazine announced BM TV, a daily live broadcast network focused on Bitcoin markets, macroeconomics, geopolitics, and frontier technology. The network is scheduled to begin broadcasts in Summer 2026 from Nashville, Tennessee. The program will air Monday through Friday from 9:30 to 11:30 AM Eastern Time, aligned with the U.S. market open. (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 50/100 (Up 24 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 947,421
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 01May2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Hezbollah Starts Using Fiber Drones / Knife Attack Against Jews in London / Aussie Vigilantes Capture Girl Killer, Meet Out Justice and Riot / Senate Passes Funding For Coast Guard / Fight Results in Stabbings in Tacoma High School / Senate Prohibits Prediction Bets For Legislators, Staff / Brazil Says No Crypto For Global Trade / X Users Mute 'Crypto' The Most / Stocks Boom / North Korea Rakes in Most Via Crypto Hacks / Joint Global Law Enforement Nab Crypto Scammers / New Security Settings For ChatGPT
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $77,586, 16.91 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.56 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $77,574 / Lo: $76,069
Volume: $31B (Down 17%)
Mkt Cap: $1.55T (Up 1%)
Hashrate: .948 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2.0 sats/byte (Down 1 Sats)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Hezbollah adopts a new weapon: Fiber-optic drones, used widely in the war in Ukraine: Drones killed an Israeli soldier in southern Lebanon and injured at least a dozen others in northern Israel on Thursday, two seriously. A soldier and defense contractor were killed in Lebanon earlier this week. (NBC)
2. London assailant charged with attempted murder over terror stabbing of two Jews: Essa Suleiman also charged with attempted murder in an unrelated incident on the same day; report reveals he was imprisoned in 2008 for stabbing a police officer and his dog. The Somalia-born British citizen is suspected of stabbing Shloime Rand, 34, and Moshe Shine, 76, in an attack on Wednesday in the heavily Jewish neighborhood of Golders Green, in north London. (TimesOfIsrael)
3. Fury over young girl’s killing sparks vigilante justice and violent clashes with police in Australia: Violent crowds clashed with police outside a hospital in a remote Australian outback town Thursday night as they demanded authorities hand over an accused child-killer. Dramatic footage showed police officers dodging rocks and sticks while rioters smashed police cars and set a police van on fire. Jefferson Lewis, 47, was arrested Thursday for the alleged murder of a five-year-old girl now known as Kumanjayi Little Baby. It wasn’t police who tracked down Lewis, but an angry crowd, who officers found beating the accused killer in an act of “vigilante justice.” (CNN)
-US Events-
1. House approves Senate bill to fund DHS, including the Coast Guard: The House on Thursday unanimously approved a Senate-passed bill to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security, ending the 76-day shutdown. The bill to fund the department was approved by voice vote and now goes to President Donald Trump for his signature. The department has been shut down since Feb. 14, making it the longest partial government shutdown in U.S. history. (StarsAndStripes)
2. Blackburn calls for Tennessee lawmakers to draw all-GOP map: Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) wants Tennessee to be the next stop on the redistricting front, calling on state lawmakers to draw new congressional lines that would wholly favor Republicans. Republicans currently hold eight of nine House seats in Tennessee’s congressional delegation. Blackburn’s proposal would target the Memphis-based seat held by Democrat Steve Cohen, who handily won reelection in 2024 with 71 percent of the vote. (TheHill)
3. Students stabbed inside Washington state high school as police respond to chaotic scene: At least six people were injured after a stabbing incident at Foss High School in Tacoma, Washington, Thursday, prompting a massive emergency response as victims were rushed to nearby hospitals. "So basically, this one guy, he took somebody’s vape pen, and they didn’t like that, so they were going to jump him — or they did, I think. And he had a knife, and he shanked four kids and one adult," a student told FOX 13. (Fox)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Senate Votes to Ban Senators and Staff From Using Prediction Markets: The Senate resolution prohibits senators and their staff from participating in prediction markets where users can bet on political outcomes, policy decisions, and other events that lawmakers may have advance knowledge of through their official duties. (Decrypt)
2. Brazil central bank prohibits crypto use in regulated cross-border payments under new FX rules: The measure does not ban crypto transfers outright in Brazil. Rather, it removes digital assets, including stablecoins, from the country's regulated framework, underscoring the central bank's intent to keep international transfers within monitored foreign exchange channels. (TheBlock)
3. Crypto is the most “muted” term on X as public splits between believers and avoiders: According to X product executive Nikita Bier, crypto ranked as the most-snoozed topic since the platform began rolling out topic snoozing for Premium subscribers. It came ahead of politics, sports, business and finance, artificial intelligence, gaming, and entertainment. (CryptoSlate)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
NSTR
-Economic Indicators-
1. S&P 500, Nasdaq Post Strongest Monthly Gains Since 2020: US stocks rose on Thursday, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq recording their biggest monthly gains since 2020, as strong earnings overshadowed oil supply concerns. The S&P 500 advanced 1% to 7,209, while the Nasdaq climbed 0.9% to 27,430, both hitting intraday highs. The Dow Jones surged 790 points, finishing the month up over 7%, its strongest performance since November 2024. (TradingEconomics)
2. US Mortgage Rate Rebounds: The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage rose by 7bps from the previous week to 6.30% as of April 30th, the first weekly increase in one month, according to data compiled by Freddie Mac. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. North Korean Hackers Have Stolen $6 Billion in Crypto—Including 76% of 2026's Spoils: North Korea stole 76% of all crypto hack value so far in 2026 with just two April attacks totaling $577 million. One hack used months of social engineering; the other exploited a single-point verification flaw in a blockchain bridge. (Decrypt)
2. Global Crypto Pig-Butchering Crackdown: US, UAE, And China Bust 9 Scam Centers: The US Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that an unprecedented collaboration between the FBI, the Dubai Police Department, and the Chinese Ministry of Public Security had led to the crackdown of at least nine crypto scam centers targeting Americans. The international crackdown was led by the Dubai Police, under the UAE Ministry of Interior, which arrested 275 individuals last week, including three people charged in the Southern District of California with federal wire fraud and money laundering charges. Meanwhile, the Royal Thai Police arrested an additional person, bringing the total of detentions to 276. (Bitcoinist)
-Technology and Science-
1. OpenAI Rolls Out Advanced Account Security for ChatGPT Users: OpenAI on Thursday introduced Advanced Account Security, a new opt-in setting for ChatGPT designed for users who want stronger protection or face higher risks of digital attacks. The new feature applies to ChatGPT and Codex accounts using the same login and requires passkeys or physical security keys instead of passwords, while limiting account recovery to backup passkeys, security keys, or recovery keys, and removing email and SMS options. That means OpenAI cannot assist with account recovery if those methods are unavailable. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Community
1. The US Bitcoin Conference will be in Nashville next year. (BitcoinMag)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 26/100 (Down 3 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): With 'Crypto' so prevelant in the headlines today, it's good to remember that crypto is a term that DOES NOT include Bitcoin, even though the less informed often conflate the two. There is a world of difference.
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 947,145
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 28Apr2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: IRGC Accumulates Power / UAE Leaves OPEC / AfD in Germany Increases in Polls / Arrest Warrant Issued for Former FBI Director Comey / Raids in Minnesota Fraud Cases / DHS Funding on Tenuous Ground / SBF Appeal Dismissed / Saipan Woman Arrested Over Bitcoin Scams / WH Crypto Advisor Hints at SBR Moves Soon / Czech Banker Likes Bitcoin / Block Goes All-In on Bitcoin / Markets Steady Before FOMC Decision Today, Powell's Last / Meta is Biggest Scam Vector / SpaceX Board Ties Musk Compensation to Mars Colonies
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $77,545, 16.99 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.55 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $77,884 / Lo: $75,673
Volume: $34B (Up 1%)
Mkt Cap: $1.55T (Down 2%)
Hashrate: .924 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1.0 sats/byte (Down 1 Sat)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Iran's Guards seize wartime power, blunting Supreme Leader's role: The killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of the war, and the elevation of his wounded son, Mojtaba, have ushered in a different order dominated by commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and marked by the absence of a decisive, authoritative referee. “We’ve gone from divine power to hard power,” said Aaron David Miller, a former U.S. negotiator. "From the influence of the clerics to the influence of the Revolutionary Guard Corps. This is how Iran is being governed.” (Reuters)
2. United Arab Emirates will leave OPEC in a blow to the oil cartel: The United Arab Emirates said Tuesday it will leave OPEC effective May 1, stripping the oil cartel of its third-largest producer and further weakening its leverage over global oil supplies and prices. The UAE’s withdrawal from OPEC won’t necessarily have any immediate effects in markets. That’s because world oil supplies are sharply constrained by the war in Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump has been a steady critic of the cartel during his two terms in the White House. (AP)
3. Germany's Anti-immigration AfD Party Soars To New Record High Support: The anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) has jumped to a new record high in a recent poll conducted by the opinion research institute Insa. In the poll, the AfD increased its lead over the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU). Despite the AfD’s high polling, all other parties continue to say they will not form an alliance with the AfD, which means the party is effectively locked out of power. (ZeroHedge)
-US Events-
1. DOJ Ups Ante, Issues Arrest Warrant for Former FBI Director James Comey: The issuance of an arrest warrant for Comey for his most recent indictment follows the mere issuance of a summons after his previous indictment in September 2025 on one count of making false statements and one count of obstruction of justice. “An arrest warrant has been issued for former FBI Director James Comey for multiple federal grand jury charges in North Carolina related to an Instagram image he posted last summer allegedly threatening the president,” Sperry wrote. “US Marshals will execute the arrest.” (Breitbart)
2. Federal law enforcement raid businesses in Minnesota fraud investigation: Twenty-two federal search warrants were executed in Minnesota, including raids at daycares, businesses and homes. Five sites related to four businesses served with warrants are connected to a state program designed to assist children with autism spectrum disorder, and the state’s Medicaid fraud control unit assisted in the operation for those businesses. (CNN)
3. White House says funds to pay TSA and other Homeland Security workers will ‘soon run out’: The White House warned Congress on Tuesday that Department of Homeland Security funding will "soon run out" by May, threatening airport disruptions and national security concerns as the House delays critical legislation. The House is expected to vote Wednesday on a Senate budget resolution passed last week, designed to unlock full agency funding; the administration warned lawmakers against changes that could prolong passage. (GroundNews)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Judge Shoots Down Sam Bankman-Fried's Bid for New Trial: The judge dismissed the FTX founder’s claims that potential witnesses faced "government threats and retaliation" as "wildly conspiratorial.” (Decrypt)
2. Woman Gets 71 Months in Prison Over Bitcoin Investment Fraud Targeting Elderly Victims: A federal court sentenced a Saipan woman to 71 months in prison for orchestrating a Bitcoin investment fraud that targeted elderly victims across multiple states. Sze Man Yu Inos, also known as "Yuki," befriended older women in the U.S. territories of Saipan and Guam between November 2020 and January 2022 as part of her fraudulent scheme. (Decrypt)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. White House Crypto Adviser Hints at ‘Breakthrough’ Bitcoin Reserve Move: Patrick Witt, executive director of the President's Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, told a panel at the Bitcoin 2026 conference in Las Vegas on Monday that the administration has spent months “figuring out” the legal interpretations needed to protect Bitcoin. A "big announcement" is expected within weeks, Witt said, describing it as a "breakthrough". (Decrypt)
2. 'This is the future': Czech central bank governor makes case for bitcoin in sovereign reserves: Czech National Bank Governor Ales Michl used a Bitcoin 2026 keynote to argue that the cryptocurrency can have a place in central bank reserve portfolios. and would eventually end up on the government balance sheet. (Decrypt)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bitcoin Transparency Gets A Boost As Dorsey’s Block Unveils Reserve Proof: Block is now offering 5% Bitcoin cash back at Square merchants — a detail that quietly underscores just how far Jack Dorsey’s payments company has gone in tying its business to Bitcoin. Block’s announcements fit a pattern. Dorsey has long argued that BTC needs to become a functional payment tool, not just a store of value. He has said that wide adoption of Bitcoin payments is essential to preserving what he sees as Satoshi Nakamoto’s original intent — a peer-to-peer electronic cash system. (Bitcoinist)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Mortgage Rates Edge Up in Latest Week: The average US 30-year fixed mortgage rate for conforming loans of $806,500 | 10.39 BTC or less edged up to 6.37% in the week ended April 24th 2026 from 6.35% in the previous period. (TradingEconomics)
2. US 10Y Yield Holds Advance Ahead of Fed Decision: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note held its recent advance near 4.35% on Wednesday as investors positioned ahead of the Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy decision, which is expected to be Chair Jerome Powell’s final meeting before his term ends in May. (TradingEconomics)
3. S&P 500 and Nasdaq Close Lower: The S&P 500 closed 0.4% lower and the Nasdaq dropped 1% on Tuesday pressured by a report signaling weakness at OpenAI and higher oil prices. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Meta Leads FTC's List of Social Media Scam Sources That Cost Americans $2.1 Billion | 27,096 BTC in 2025: The figure represents an eightfold increase compared to losses recorded in 2020. This means that the growing threat of scams continuously affects many victims across major online platforms. No one is safe, regardless if you're using Facebook, Instagram, or other apps. Among all social media platforms, Facebook accounted for the highest reported losses. (TechTimes) (AC-It's interesting to compare this to the clampdown on Bitcoin ATMs, which also seem to be a scam vector and targeted by state governments. I don't think Facebook would get the same treatment.)
-Technology and Science-
1. SpaceX ties Musk compensation to Mars colonization goal: SpaceX's board approved a compensation plan for founder Elon Musk linking rewards to colonizing Mars and operating space-based data centers. The performance package awards 200 million shares if SpaceX hits a $7.5 trillion valuation and establishes a Mars colony of at least 1 million people, plus 60.4 million shares for operating space data centers providing at least 100 terawatts of capacity. (GroundNews) (AC-Five years ago this headline would have seemed like Sci-Fi.)
-Bitcoin Community-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 26/100 (Down 7 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 947,023
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 28Apr2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Iran Peace Plan Panned / Russian Yacht Gets Through Strait / Columbia Violence Increases Over Election / Attacker Charged With Attempted Assasination / New Jersey Police Find Missing Drones / Trump Sacks Science Board / DOJ Says Coding Isn't Crime, Unless Criminal Intent / BTC ETFs Chill / Block Reveals 9K BTC Stash / Yields Up, Stocks Up / Web Pages Hide AI Injects / SCOTUS Hints At Location Data Warrant Requirement / NASA Want Moon Drones
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $76,213, 16.65 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.65 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $78,270 / Lo: $76,129
Volume: $35B (Up 8%)
Mkt Cap: $1.52T (Down 2%)
Hashrate: .946 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 2.0 sats/byte (Up 1 Sat)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Trump reviews peace plan; UN calls for Hormuz to reopen: Dozens of nations have called for the “urgent and unimpeded reopening” of the Strait of Hormuz, with UN chief Antonio Guterres warning that the US-Iran standoff in the waterway risks triggering a global food emergency.(AlJazeera)
2. Russian superyacht sails through Strait of Hormuz despite blockade: The 142m-long (465 feet) Nord luxury boat, linked to sanctioned Russian billionaire Alexey Mordashov, travelled from Dubai to Muscat, Oman over the weekend, one of a few private vessels to transit through the strait in recent months. Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted an Iranian delegation in St Petersburg on Monday, where Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi hailed their "strategic relationship". (BBC)
3. Violence escalates in Colombia with dozens of attacks before presidential vote: A spate of attacks against civilians and military bases in Colombia’s southwestern region has raised security concerns as the country heads to a May presidential election in which crime is expected to be one of the top voter concerns. Rebel groups have staged 26 attacks with explosives and drones since Friday. (AP)
-US Events-
1. White House correspondents' dinner suspect charged with attempting to assassinate Trump: Authorities identified the suspect as Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old part-time teacher from California; Allen, armed with multiple firearms and knives, shot one Secret Service agent who was treated and released from the hospital Sunday. Experts analyzing Allen's manifesto found he distorted Christian theological traditions to justify political violence; while he cited Scripture to claim a "moral obligation to resist unjust authority," ethicists argue his individualized interpretation fundamentally misrepresented the Gospel's call for nonviolence. (GroundNews)
2. New Jersey Police Recover 15 Stolen Chemical-Spraying Drones: The Ceres Air C31 drones, each ATV-sized and able to spray 40 gallons over 15 square miles, disappeared from CAC International in Harrison on March 24, worth nearly $870,000. Police recovered them on April 27 in a Dover warehouse owned by Prudent Corporation, likely taken by a fake delivery driver. The investigation continues with federal help, and authorities seek tips on the motive. (X)
3. Trump administration fires entire National Science Board: President Donald Trump's administration has terminated the entire National Science Board of more than 20 members, two fired members of the board said on Monday. The majority of the board members were academics. It also had representation from national labs, non-profits and the industry. (Reuters)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. DOJ Says Crypto Code Alone Isn’t Crime, But Roman Storm Case Still Looms: Speaking at the Bitcoin 2026 conference in Las Vegas, Todd Blanche told the crypto industry that the DOJ had moved away from what he characterized as prosecutions aimed at software developers merely for building tools later used by third parties. Storm’s defense argues that the Southern District of New York’s case against him is precisely the kind of precedent that threatens developers, especially if prosecutors can treat software authorship and protocol involvement as the basis for criminal exposure when third parties misuse a tool. (Bitcoinist)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bitcoin ETF outflows snap nine-day streak ahead of FOMC: Bitcoin fell back below $77,000 on Tuesday after U.S. spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds recorded $263.2 million in net outflows on April 27, ending a nine-day inflow streak, (TheBlock)
2. Jack Dorsey's Block nears 9,000 bitcoin ($2.2B) in treasury after Q1 addition: The firm added 114 BTC to its corporate treasury, for a total of 8,997 BTC, and said it plans to issue regular third-party reports. (CoinDesk)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Treasury Yield Near 1-Month High: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note edged up to 4.35% on Tuesday, the highest level in about a month, as ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East and rising oil prices rekindled fears of an inflationary spiral. (TradingEconomics)
2. S&P and Nasdaq Hit New Records: The S&P 500 rose 0.1% to close at a record 7173.9, while the Nasdaq gained 0.2% to reach a fresh high of 24887 on Monday. The Dow Jones however, fell 63 points. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Malicious Web Pages Are Hijacking AI Agents, And Some Are Going After Your PayPal: Google documented a 32% surge in malicious indirect prompt injection attacks between November 2025 and February 2026, targeting AI agents browsing the web. Attackers embed instructions in a web page in ways invisible to humans: text shrunk to a single pixel, text drained to near-transparency, content hidden in HTML comment sections, or commands buried in page metadata. The AI reads the full HTML. The human sees nothing. (Decrypt)
2. Supreme Court signals location data searches should require a warrant: The Supreme Court signaled during oral arguments Monday that it is likely to rule that police sweeps of all cell phones located in an area surrounding a crime scene qualify as a Fourth Amendment protected search and therefore require a warrant. (RecordedFuture)
-Technology and Science-
1. NASA wants to use a fleet of MoonFall drones to scout the lunar south pole: 'We believe we can do it': MoonFall involves the release of four camera and sensor-laden "drones" over a still-to-be-selected site at the lunar south pole, Baker said. "Our goal is that each drone can cover a range of roughly 30 miles," he said, "and get that done by the end of 2028." (Space(.)com)
-Bitcoin Community-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 33/100 (Down 14 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 946,874
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 27Apr2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Hormuz Strait Still Closed / Iran Diplomant Visits Putin / Palestinian Authority Holds Elections / Latest Trump Assasin Released Anti-Christian Screed / King Charles Meets With Trump / VA Supreme Court to Rule on Redistricting Vote / Tennessee Bans Bitcoin ATMs / World Central Banks Target Crypto / BTC ETF Demand Grows / Greyscale Stiffarms Coinbase / Markets Steady / France Charges 88 on Wrench Attack Network / Musk, Altman Meet in Court Battle / Musk Opens Technology Entropy Debate / Bitcoin Dev Proposes Hard Fork
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $77,842, 16.52 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.54 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $79,488 / Lo: $77,505
Volume: $32B (Up 96%)
Mkt Cap: $1.55T (Even)
Hashrate: .915 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1.0 sats/byte (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Strait of Hormuz Remains Largely Closed as US-Iran Tensions Escalate Despite Extended Ceasefire: Navy teams are actively clearing explosive mines laid by Iranian forces, describing the operation as part of a broader push to reopen the waterway through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and significant liquefied natural gas volumes normally pass. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports is "growing and going global," with a second aircraft carrier expected to join operations soon. (IBTimes)
2. Iran’s top diplomat visits Russia as part of efforts to end the war: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived in Russia for talks with President Vladimir Putin, as part of efforts to end the United States-Israel war on Iran. (AlJazeera)
3. Palestinian authorities call local elections in a Gaza community and the West Bank a success: The Palestinian Authority, which administers semiautonomous areas of the West Bank but is left out of the U.S.-drafted ceasefire plan for Gaza, has described Saturday’s local election in central Gaza’s Deir al-Balah as a largely symbolic pilot while the authority seeks to politically link the territories. (AP)
-US Events-
1. Correspondents' dinner shooting suspect wrote anti-Christian manifesto: On Saturday, Cole Tomas Allen, 31, charged a security checkpoint at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, firing a shotgun and wounding a Secret Service agent before being tackled and arrested. Sent to his family 10 minutes before the attack, Allen's manifesto dubbed him the "Friendly Federal Assassin" and detailed plans to kill Trump administration officials. Allen also attended a leftist anti-Trump No Kings protest, was a regular at the shooting range, and was a member of a group known as The Wide Awakes, Heinrich wrote. (GroundNews, Breitbart)
2. King Charles set to meet Trump for the toughest mission of his reign: The monarch lands in the US on Monday for a four-day state visit to mark the 250th anniversary of its independence, declared during the reign of his five-times great-grandfather, King George III. (CNN)
3. Virginia Supreme Court considers whether to block voter-approved US House map favoring Democrats: The case contends that the Democratic-led General Assembly violated procedural requirements by placing the constitutional amendment before voters to authorize mid-decade redistricting. If the court agrees that lawmakers broke the rules, it could invalidate the amendment and render last week’s statewide vote meaningless. (AP)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Tennessee Becomes Second State to Outlaw Bitcoin, Crypto ATMs: Tennessee has become the second U.S. state to outlaw Bitcoin ATMs, making it a criminal offense in the Volunteer State to own or operate the machines that federal authorities have identified as a vector committing fraud against the elderly. The legislation was co-sponsored by Republican state representatives Cameron Sexton and Jay Reedy. In a March statement, Sexton said the kiosks “have become a gateway for scammers to exploit Tennesseans, especially our seniors.” According to FBI numbers released this month, Americans aged over 60 lost $257 million | 3,287 BTC to scams involving Bitcoin ATMs last year, a 58% increase year-over-year. (Decrypt) (AC-For context, Rep Sexton was a guest speaker at a BV event lately and is an outspoken voice on conservative and freedom-oriented issues. This issue is apparently nuanced and debateable)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
1. The world’s central banks finally see crypto as a real monetary threat to TradFi: The world's central banks stopped arguing about whether stablecoins are risky long ago. Their main concern now is about who will control them and how. The Bank for International Settlements, often called the central bankers' central bank, has raised concerns about stablecoins before, but the language they've used is much sharper now. De Cos warned about runs that could trigger market stress, about dollar-pegged tokens accelerating the dollarization of developing economies, and about fragmented regulatory frameworks that private firms can arbitrage across borders. That's the language of systemic risk, distinct from the investor-protection framing that dominated earlier debates.(CryptoSlate)
-Institutional Concerns-
1. Bitcoin leads $1.2B weekly haul for global crypto funds as institutional demand builds: Global crypto investment products drew $1.2 billion in weekly inflows, marking a fourth straight positive week. (TheBlock)
2. Grayscale moves away from Coinbase for new ETF product – Is Wall Street building a post-Coinbase custody map?: Grayscale’s decision to swap Coinbase for Anchorage in a new ETF filing is small on paper and significant in context because it shines a light on how much of Wall Street’s Bitcoin wrapper still depends on one custodian. (CryptoSlate) (AC-A soverign bitcoiners, we prefer self-custody over institutional custody, but that option isn't viable for all financial products. It is good to see more options.)
-Economic Indicators-
1. US 10-Year Yield Holds Firm: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note hovered around 4.32% on Monday, little changed but maintaining last week’s gains as stalled US–Iran peace negotiations kept markets cautious amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. (TradingEconomics)
2. S&P and Nasdaq Close at Record Levels: The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite both finished Friday at record highs, buoyed by optimism that US–Iran peace talks may soon occur in Pakistan. The S&P 500 rose 0.8% to 7,1658, while the Nasdaq climbed 1.6% to 24,837. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. France Charges 88, Including Minors, in Crypto ‘Wrench Attack’ Crackdown: France has recorded 135 crypto-linked incidents since 2023, amid a nationwide surge in so-called “wrench attacks." Six suspects were arrested this month in two separate operations linked to kidnappings in Challes-les-Eaux and Dompierre-sur-Mer; all six are in pre-trial detention. Investigators identified structured criminal networks by tracing repeat offenders across 135 incidents recorded since 2023. (Decrypt)
-Technology and Science-
1. Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman head to court in high-stakes showdown over AI: Technology tycoons Elon Musk and Sam Altman are poised to face off in a high-stakes trial revolving around the alleged betrayal, deceit and unbridled ambition that blurred the bickering billionaires’ once-shared vision for the development of artificial intelligence. The trial, which is scheduled to begin Monday with jury selection, centers on the 2015 birth of ChatGPT maker OpenAI as a nonprofit startup primarily funded by Musk before evolving into a capitalistic venture now valued at $852 billion. The trial’s outcome could sway the balance of power in AI. (AP)
2. Musk Warns Technology Degrades Without Constant Effort: In clips amplified by influencer Dustin, Musk explains that the U.S. reached the moon in 1969 with slide rules and basic computers, but after the space shuttle ended in 2011, NASA couldn't send astronauts to orbit for years. He argues technology doesn't improve on its own—it degrades like ancient Egypt forgetting pyramid skills amid complacency. Viewers connect this to bureaucracy and demographics, while critics note Apollo's huge budget share has shrunk, though SpaceX now dominates orbital launches and proves private drive works. (X) (AC-Not a common assertion, tech entropy does require some philosphic and mechanistic understanding in order to drive meaningful progress. It's good to see a debate over something that affects all humanity.)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. A long-time developer wants to split Bitcoin blockchain and reassign Satoshi coins. The community is calling it a theft: Paul Sztorc proposes a 2026 hard fork of Bitcoin called eCash, giving BTC holders equivalent tokens and adding Drivechains. A hard fork splits a blockchain into a new network with shared history but different rules, like Bitcoin Cash in 2017. The fork is scheduled for Bitcoin block height 964,000 in August 2026. A coin-splitter tool will be released to help holders cleanly separate their BTC from their new eCash. The new chain will be a near-copy of Bitcoin's existing blockchain, with one critical addition called Drivechains. Drivechains are sidechains tethered to the Bitcoin blockchain, allowing seamless movement of BTC between the main chain and sidechains without changing Bitcoin's base layer. Each sidechain can operate under its own rules and features, essentially allowing developers to build new capabilities on top of Bitcoin without requiring the entire network to adopt those changes. (CoinDesk)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 47/100 (Up 8 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 946,454
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 24Apr2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: US Wants Spain Suspended From NATO / Hezbolla Says No Ceasefire / Panama Canal Rakes It In / Green Beret Busted on Betting / US Terror Plot Stopped / Marijuana Gets Federal Repreive / BTC ETFs Infow for 7 Days / Stocks Up / New Bill Would Require Warrants For AI Data / META Cuts 10% of Workfoce for AI / Fold Launches Bitcoin Bonus Program
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $77,881, 16.57 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.52 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $78,676 / Lo: $77,014
Volume: $37B (Down 14%)
Mkt Cap: $1.55T (Even)
Hashrate: .933 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1.0 sats/byte (Even)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Pentagon email floats suspending Spain from NATO: An internal Pentagon email outlines options for the United States to punish NATO allies it believes failed to support U.S. operations in the war with Iran, including suspending Spain from the alliance and reviewing the U.S. position on Britain's claim to the Falkland Islands. They have expressed frustration with Spain, where the Socialist leadership said it would not allow its bases or airspace to be used to attack Iran. The United States has two important military bases in Spain: Naval Station Rota and Morón Air Base. (Reuters)
2. Hezbollah MP: ceasefire 'meaningless' in light of Israeli attacks: Lebanon's Hezbollah said a U.S.-mediated ceasefire in the war with Israel was meaningless a day after it was extended for three weeks, pointing to continued Israeli attacks in south Lebanon and saying the group had the right to respond. "Any Israeli aggression against any Lebanese target, regardless of its nature, gives the resistance the right to respond proportionately," MP Fayyad said. (Reuters) (AC- The distinction between Lebannon and Hezbollah must be clear in reporting and understanding of this issue. The ceasefire is with the country, not the Iranian proxy. It seems the country is looking to rid itself of Hezbollah.)
3. Panama Canal says $1 million-plus auction slots reflect temporary surge in demand: The Panama Canal Authority said on Thursday that some ships had recently paid more than $1 million for crossing slots at auction, but said the unusually high prices reflected a temporary rise in demand rather than persistent congestion at the waterway. The authority said average auction prices had risen to about $385,000 after the start of the Middle East conflict, from around $135,000 to $140,000 before, as higher traffic boosted demand for reservations. (Reuters)
-US Events-
1. US special forces soldier arrested after allegedly winning $400,000 on Maduro raid: A US special forces soldier involved in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was arrested and charged for allegedly betting on that operation, netting him $400,000 in profits. Master Sgt. Gannon Ken Van Dyke opened an account in late December on Polymarket, one of the best-known prediction markets. He wagered about $32,000 that Maduro would be “out” by January. The bet was a long-shot. But Van Dyke was involved in the planning and execution of Operation Absolute Resolve, prosecutors allege, and had access to classified information before he placed the bet. (CNN)
2. North Carolina woman, Houston-area teen accused of plot against Congregation Beth Israel: Court documents state that 18-year-old Angelina Han Hicks conspired to "kill as many Jews as possible" by driving through Congregation Beth Israel in Houston. "A fast-moving, multistate FBI investigation led to the arrests of one adult and one juvenile accused of planning an attack at a Jewish Day School in Houston, Texas. 18-year-old Angela Hicks is currently facing two state charges brought by the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office in Lexington, North Carolina. A juvenile was charged in Harris County, Texas. (Fox26)
3. Trump reclassifies state-licensed medical marijuana as a less-dangerous drug in a historic shift: The order signed by Todd Blanche does not legalize marijuana for medical or recreational use under federal law. But it does change the way it’s regulated, shifting licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I — reserved for drugs without medical use and with high potential for abuse — to the less strictly regulated Schedule III. It also gives licensed medical marijuana operators a major tax break and eases some barriers to researching cannabis. (AP)
-Regulatory and Legal-
NSTR
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
1. BlackRock drives 7-day Bitcoin ETF inflow streak as BTC nears $80,000: Spot Bitcoin (BTC) ETFs logged $335.8 million in inflows on Wednesday, marking the seventh consecutive day of inflows. (CoinTelegraph)
-Economic Indicators-
1. Nasdaq 100 Reaches New Record: US stock indices were mostly higher on Friday as strong earnings offset pressure from high energy prices ahead of possible talks between the US and Iran. The S&P 500 inched higher and the Nasdaq 100 jumped 1% to a new record, while the Dow edged lower. The US and Iran maintained their blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, although Pakistan signaled that the Irani delegation would be open to talks this weekend. (TradingEconomics)
2. US 10-Year Yield Climbs on Middle East Concerns: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note rose to around 4.33% on Friday, extending gains for a fifth consecutive session as stalled US-Iran peace efforts and continued disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz kept inflation risks elevated. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Proposed House Bill Would Require Warrants for Government AI Surveillance: Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie and Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert introduced the Surveillance Accountability Act on Thursday. If passed, the legislation would amend Title 18 of the U.S. Code to codify a broad warrant requirement for government searches, close what supporters describe as the “third-party doctrine” loophole, and give individuals the right to sue the government for Fourth Amendment violations. (Decrypt)
-Technology and Science-
1. Meta Will Lay Off 8,000 Employees as AI Focus Intensifies: Meta informed workers of sweeping layoffs Thursday, targeting roughly 8,000 employees—about 10% of its global workforce—while also eliminating 6,000 unfilled positions, as the Facebook and Instagram parent company funnels unprecedented resources into artificial intelligence development. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Community-
1. Fold Launches 'Bitcoin Bonus' Program for Employers Following Steak 'n Shake Debut: Bitcoin financial services company Fold Holdings, Inc. launched a program Thursday that allows companies to pay recurring BTC bonuses to employees, following an initial rollout from restaurant chain Steak 'n Shake earlier this year. Under the program, Steak 'n Shake's 10,000-plus hourly workers across the United States can receive Bitcoin bonuses. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 39/100 (Down 7 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 946,309
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 23Apr2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: US Targets Iranian Small Boats, Seizes Another Tanker / DOW Says De-mining May Take Months / China, Africa Blackball Taiwan President / Senate Pushes DHS Funding Through / Navy Secretary Out / FBI Investigates Missing Scientists / US DOW Runs Bitcoin Node / Russia Opens Crypto, Especially For Sanction-Skirting / CLARITY Act in Limbo / US Manufacturing Up, Stocks Take Breather / New Tool Keeps AI Privacy / Tesla Optimus Coming Soon
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $77,556, 16.40 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.56 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $79,468 / Lo: $77,222
Volume: $42B (Down 7%)
Mkt Cap: $1.55T (Down 2%)
Hashrate: .947 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 1.0 sats/byte (Down 3 sats)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Trump orders US military to ‘shoot and kill’ Iranian small boats choking Strait of Hormuz: “I have ordered the United States Navy to shoot and kill any boat, small boats though they may be...that is putting mines in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump posted. “There is to be no hesitation. Additionally, our mine “sweepers” are clearing the Strait right now. I am hereby ordering that activity to continue, but at a tripled up level!”, he posted on Truth Social. (AP)
2. US boards tanker: The US Defense Department said it boarded another “sanctioned stateless vessel,” which was carrying oil from Iran, in the Indian Ocean overnight. (CNN)
3. Pentagon Tells Congress that Clearing Mines from the Strait of Hormuz Could Take Up to 6 Months: Defense officials delivered that assessment in a classified briefing, telling lawmakers that a full clearance effort likely would not begin until the current U.S.-Iran war ends. Officials added that Iran may have deployed at least 20 mines using both boats and GPS-guided remote systems, a combination that complicates detection and removal. (IBTimes)
4. Taiwan president cancels trip after African countries revoke flight permits: Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has cancelled a trip to the southern African nation of Eswatini, accusing China of putting pressure on other countries to bar his aircraft from flying over their territories. According to news agency Reuters, Seychelles and Madagascar said they took the decision because they do not recognise Taiwan. (BBC)
-US Events-
1. Senate Republicans Advance $70 Billion ICE, Border Patrol Funding Plan: Budget reconciliation allows the 53-member Republican majority to bypass the 60-vote threshold, requiring only a simple majority. Funding for most Department of Homeland Security operations expired nine weeks ago, necessitating this legislative maneuver.
2. Pentagon Says Secretary of the Navy John Phelan Exiting Trump Administration: Secretary of the U.S. Navy John Phelan was revealed to be leaving his role with the Trump administration, “effective immediately,” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell shared. Phelan was reportedly “asked to step down,” an “official” in the Trump administration told the Hill. Phelan’s departure comes after he was sworn into his position in March 2025. (Breitbart)
3. At least 10 people tied to sensitive US research have died or disappeared in recent years, sparking federal investigation: A nuclear physicist and MIT professor fatally shot outside his Massachusetts residence. A retired Air Force general missing from his New Mexico home. An aerospace engineer who disappeared during a hike in Los Angeles. These are among at least 10 individuals connected to sensitive US nuclear and aerospace research who have died or disappeared in recent years, prompting concerns whether they are connected and fueling speculation online about the possibility of nefarious activity. The FBI now says it “is spearheading the effort to look for connections into the missing and deceased scientists,” (CNN)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. US Government Runs a Bitcoin Node, But Not Mining BTC: “We have a node on the Bitcoin network right now,” Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific, told the House Armed Services Committee Wednesday. “We’re not mining Bitcoin,” he continued. “We’re using it to monitor, and we’re doing a number of operational tests to secure and protect networks using the Bitcoin protocol.” (Decrypt)
2. Russia Advances Sweeping Crypto Bill With Provisions for 'Circumventing Sanctions': the legislation would classify cryptocurrency as property, enabling legal protection in court proceedings including bankruptcy and divorce cases. Non-qualified investors would face annual purchase limits of 300,000 rubles (around $3,900), while professional participants would encounter no such restrictions. It also allows Russian companies to use cryptocurrency to pay foreign counterparties, circumventing sanctions restrictions. (Decrypt)
3. Crypto’s CLARITY Act Sits At 50-50 For 2026 Passage: The crypto industry’s most important US market structure bill is entering a narrowing window in Washington, with Galaxy Digital putting the odds of the CLARITY Act becoming law this year at roughly 50-50. “If the markup slips past mid-May, the probability of enactment in 2026 drops sharply,” Galaxy wrote. (Bitcoinist)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
NSTR
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Manufacturing PMI Jumps to Near Four-Year High: The S&P Global US Manufacturing PMI climbed to 54.0 in April 2026, up from 52.3 in March and surpassing market expectations of 52.5, according to preliminary data. This marks the strongest improvement in factory business conditions since May 2022. (TradingEconomics)
2. US Stocks Pull Back from Records: US equities fell on Thursday, halting the recent rally on the lack of progress in the conflict between the US and Iran. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq fell around 0.3% each from their record highs last session and the Dow dropped nearly 200 points. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. OpenAI Just Open-Sourced a Tool That Scrubs Your Secrets Before ChatGPT Ever Sees Them: OpenAI released Privacy Filter under Apache 2.0 on GitHub and Hugging Face. Think of it as spellcheck, but for privacy. You feed it a block of text, and it hands back the same text with all the sensitive bits swapped for generic placeholders like [PRIVATE_PERSON] or [ACCOUNT_NUMBER]. (Decrypt)
-Technology and Science-
1. Elon Musk Hides Tesla Optimus V3 Details as Humanoid Robot Production Nears Launch: Musk said that rival companies are closely studying every Tesla reveal in detail to replicate its advancements. Because of this, the company plans to keep many of Optimus V3's most advanced capabilities hidden until production nears full scale. To prepare for manufacturing, Tesla is dismantling production lines previously used for the Model S and Model X. Musk explained that the robot will feature onboard intelligence, allowing it to function even without constant internet connectivity. Initially, Optimus will be deployed for basic factory operations before expanding into more advanced real-world applications. (TechTimes) (AC-The humanoid robot will revolutionize business and suprize us in other areas.)
-Bitcoin Community-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 46/100 (Up 15 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report
📷 BTC Daily Intelligence Bulletin (DIB)
Block: 946,195
DTG/ICOD: 1200Z 22Apr2026
Precedence: Routine (RR)
Controls: Public Release
QQQQ
__________________________
BLUF: Iran Attacks 3 Ships in Strait / UK Bans Tobacco, Vapes / Virginia Dems Win Gerrymander Vote / DOJ Charges Southern Poverty Law Center With Fraud / Banks Push Ads Against CLARITY Act / Admiral Testifies Bitcoin May Be Used For NATSEC / Stocks Up / North Korea Hackers Haul $500M This Month From DeFi / China 'On Par' With US on Cyber / New Documentary Reveals 'Satoshi'
Market Data: Price: 1 BTC= $78,707, 16.57 oz Gold/1 BTC, 5.47 BTC/Median US House
24hr Hi: $78,902 / Lo: $74,854
Volume: $45B (Up 18%)
Mkt Cap: $1.57T (Up 4%)
Hashrate: .967 ZH/s
Avg Fee Rate: 4.0 sats/byte (Up 2 sats)
---Reports---
-International Events-
1. Iran attacks 3 ships in the Strait of Hormuz as Trump indefinitely extends ceasefire: U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday the United States was indefinitely extending its ceasefire with Iran — a day before it was to expire — as a new round of peace talks was on hold. The White House suspended Vice President JD Vance’s planned trip to Islamabad as Iran rebuffed efforts to restart negotiations. Iran’s semiofficial news agencies are reporting that the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has attacked a third ship Wednesday in the Strait of Hormuz, throwing into question efforts to end the war. The attack by the Guard was on a vessel called the Euphoria. They said the vessel had become “stranded” on the Iranian coast, without elaborating. The Guard has seized the other two ships that were attacked, Iranian state television separately reported. (CNN)
2. UK bill bans anyone born after 2008 from ever buying tobacco: A new bill approved in the United Kingdom’s legislature will stop people born on or after January 1, 2009 from buying tobacco during their whole lives, as part of a years-long effort by ministers to create a “smoke-free generation”. The bill will become law when it receives a royal assent next week. Once it does, ministers will also have new powers to regulate tobacco, vaping and nicotine products, including their flavours and packaging. (AlJazeera)
-US Events-
1. Virginia Residents Vote in Favor of Redistricting Referendum: With 95 percent of the vote in, the redistricting referendum passed with 1,543,746 votes in favor, representing 51.4 percent of the vote. On the other side, 48.7 percent of voters rejected the redistricting referendum, with the referendum receiving 1,462,766 votes against it. As a result of the referendum passing, “the new map could shift Virginia’s congressional delegation from a 6-5 split t0 10-1 favoring Democrats,” (Breitbart)
2. Trump administration sues Southern Poverty Law Center on fraud charges: The Department of Justice alleged that the law centre defrauded donors by using their money to fund the very ideology it claimed to be fighting. It pointed to payments of at least $3m | 38.29 BTC between 2014 and 2023 to people affiliated with the Ku Klux Klan, the United Klans of America, the National Socialist Party of America and other far-right groups. “The SPLC was not dismantling these groups. It was instead manufacturing the extremism it purports to oppose by paying sources to stoke racial hatred,” Blanche said. (AlJazeera)
-Regulatory and Legal-
1. Banks fund crypto attack ads across Washington as over 3,000 banks unite to stop Clarity Act passing Senate: ABA's advertising archive documents Politico Morning Money placements during the week of Mar. 9, urging senators to act on stablecoin yield, as well as a separate digital campaign targeting Congress, the White House, and regulatory agencies. All of it is now landing on a Senate calendar that has very little room. The bank lobby's escalation, the White House's quantitative rebuttal, and the Senate's public silence on a new markup date all point to the same variable that yield language must close in days for CLARITY to reach markup before the campaign season consumes the floor schedule. (CryptoSlate) (AC-Monopolies cannot exsit without government collaboration.)
2. Top US Military Officials Study Bitcoin For National Defense: Bitcoin has entered the US national security conversation more directly, and more publicly, than before. In Senate testimony highlighted Thursday by the Bitcoin Policy Institute (BPI) and several industry observers, Admiral Samuel Paparo, the four-star commander of US Indo-Pacific Command, described BTC as showing “incredible potential” as a tool with cybersecurity and broader strategic applications. “Our research into Bitcoin is as a computer science tool,” Paparo said. “It’s the combination of cryptography, a blockchain, and a proof of work. And Bitcoin shows incredible potential as a computer science tool that through the proof of work protocols, actually imposes more cost than just the algorithmic securing of networks and our ability to operate.” “Bitcoin is a reality, it is a valuable computer science tool as a power projection. And outside of the economic formulation of it, it has got really important computer science applications for cybersecurity.” (Bitcoinist) (AC-Softwar seems to be taken seriously now. The resulting question is how to implement.)
-CBDCs/World Currencies/Strategic Reserves-
NSTR
-Institutional Concerns-
NSTR
-Economic Indicators-
1. US Stocks Approach Records: US equities rose on Wednesday, rebounding from losses this week amid an extension to the ceasefire in Iran and strong corporate earnings. The S&P 500, Nasdaq 100, and Dow were around 0.7% higher, not far from their records. (TradingEconomics)
2. Treasury Yields Little Changed, Middle East Situation Eyed: The yield on the US 10-year Treasury note was little changed at around 4.3% on Wednesday, as traders awaited developments in the Middle East, with uncertainty persisting despite some near-term relief from the ceasefire extension. (TradingEconomics)
-Security Concerns-
1. Google Fixes AI Coding Tool Flaw That Let Attackers Execute Malicious Code: Researchers found a prompt injection vulnerability in Google’s Antigravity AI coding platform. The flaw could allow attackers to execute commands even with the platform’s Secure Mode enabled. Google fixed the issue Feb. 28 after researchers disclosed it in January. (Decrypt)
2. North Korea hit crypto for $500M+ this month — and the $6.75 billion threat is not over yet: In just under three weeks, cyber operatives linked to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) have stolen more than $500 million from crypto DeFi platforms. Notably, the twin devastating exploits targeting the Drift Protocol and KelpDAO have pushed North Korea’s illicit crypto haul for the year well past the $700 million mark. (CryptoSlate)
3. China’s cyber capabilities now equal to the US, warns Dutch intelligence: The Netherlands' military intelligence service says it believes China has drawn level with the United States in offensive cyber capabilities, leading to a situation where only a fraction of Chinese operations against Dutch interests are ever detected. (RecordedFuture)
-Technology and Science-
NSTR
-Bitcoin Community-
1. 'Finding Satoshi' Makes the Case for Hal Finney, Len Sassaman as Bitcoin Co-Creators: A new documentary argues that Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto was two people: late cryptographers Hal Finney and Len Sassaman. Directed by Tucker Tooley and Matthew Miele, “Finding Satoshi” showcases a four-year investigation guided by American business writer William D. Cohan and private investigator Tyler Maroney, delving deep into one of the 21st century's greatest unsolved mysteries. (Decrypt)
-Bitcoin Sentiment-
1. Fear(0)/Greed(100) Index: 32/100 (Down 1 pts)
Analyst Comments (AC): NSTR
Follow us on NOSTR: npub1qktts9naunvjdwsktq5xjdhwh539xt4x0mqj4yxq0q9dvm03ljvs6sms0r
Listen to us daily on X discuss the DIB and more: X Spaces, Bitcoin Veterans, 10amEST/7amPST
____________________
Analyst: BV2A
END REPORT
NNNN
*NSTR-Nothing Significant To Report