Gate Crypto Flash News and Market Updates

A Citi study recommends combining Bitcoin and gold in investment portfolios for improved long-term returns, noting better performance in various market conditions. Wells Fargo predicts gold could rise to $8,000 by 2027, driven by central bank concerns. Meanwhile, Bitcoin funding rates have reached lows, historically marking turning points.

Tokyo has launched a subsidy program for businesses creating yen-denominated stablecoin use cases, offering up to 40 million yen. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and can face repayment penalties if use cases aren't developed or subsidies are misused.

HKEx has proposed shortening the settlement cycle for Hong Kong's stock spot market from T+2 to T+1 and is seeking market feedback on the new operational model.

Hong Kong stocks closed lower on April 17, with the Hang Seng Index dropping 0.89%. Blue-chip stocks varied, as Alibaba gained amid AI advancements. Newly listed stocks surged, showcasing strong investor interest, while gold stocks fell due to geopolitical tensions.

Sui blockchain has launched its native stablecoin, USDsui, now integrated into various digital wallets and DeFi applications. This launch enhances Sui's DeFi infrastructure, facilitating peer-to-peer lending and automated trading while reducing reliance on external stablecoins. Its success relies on broad adoption within the ecosystem.

The Korea Battery Industry Association and Germany's Fraunhofer Institute signed an MOU to enhance battery technology cooperation, aiming to help Korean companies meet EU market requirements. Their collaboration focuses on R&D, supply chain development, and safety solutions in line with the EU's new regulations.

Google is enhancing Chrome with AI-powered search, allowing conversational browsing and context-aware responses. The new functionality also features multi-tab integration, improving user experience for various tasks by consolidating open tabs and providing tailored information.

On April 17, the Salamar, a Pakistani-flagged oil tanker, became the first crude oil vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since the U.S. blockade began on April 13, carrying 450,000 barrels of oil from the UAE to Karachi, Pakistan.

Kim Sang-hun, chairman of the Democratic Party's Digital Asset Special Committee, urged for prompt legislation on stablecoins to maintain monetary sovereignty and provide market clarity, while avoiding equity disputes that could hinder progress.

Reed Hastings will step down from Netflix's board in June after nearly 30 years, marking a shift in leadership for the company. His departure comes amid disappointing earnings and challenges following the withdrawal from an acquisition deal.

The Ethereum Foundation's ETH Rangers Program revealed a major security threat from North Korean operatives infiltrating Web3 companies. The investigation uncovered about 100 operatives, flagged 53 projects, and recovered over $5.8 million. The foundation urges improved hiring processes and global cooperation for enhanced security.

Apple's iPhone shipments in China rose 20% in Q1, outpacing competitors amid a 4% decline in overall smartphone sales, supported by a government subsidy program. Huawei leads the market, while Apple's supply chain allows it to manage rising costs effectively.

Southeast Asia's energy transition companies raised $1.8 billion across 258 firms, predominantly for solar and electric vehicles, with minimal funding for energy storage and efficiency. Singapore led funding, highlighting investor preference for established segments over critical infrastructure needs.

San'an Optoelectronics has ended its $239 million acquisition of Lumileds due to national security concerns raised by the U.S. CFIUS. The companies withdrew without any payments or equity transfers, and the termination is not expected to negatively impact San'an's operations.

Russia conducted drone strikes along the Ukraine-Romania border, with one drone entering Romanian airspace. Romanian defense systems detected it near Giurgiu, prompting an investigation by military personnel.

Aevex priced its IPO at $20 per share, raising $320 million and achieving a market valuation of $2.2 billion. Specializing in AI-driven defense drones, Aevex will list on the NYSE under "AVEX" on April 18.

On April 17, 22,000 BTC options are expiring with a 1.05 Put/Call ratio and a $72,000 maximum pain point, totaling $1.65 billion. Additionally, 100,000 ETH options are expiring with a 0.95 Put/Call ratio and a $2,250 maximum pain point, valued at $460 million.

Economists anticipate a 25 basis point rate hike by the European Central Bank in June 2026, primarily due to rising energy prices linked to the Iran conflict. While inflation is expected to peak at 2.8%, it should moderate in subsequent years, alongside muted economic growth forecasts for the Eurozone. The ECB remains cautious about potential future hikes amid uncertain geopolitical conditions.

EagleRock Land filed an IPO application targeting $200 million, focusing on land management in the Permian Basin. Based in Houston, it controls 236,000 acres and generated $72 million in revenue in 2025. The company plans to list on NYSE American under EROK.

James Wynn launched a memecoin presale, $ASSDAQ, on Solana, raising just $8,000 in ten hours, attracting criticism over past scam allegations. Despite Wynn's claims of trading success, market reluctance signals skepticism about his new project.