Global TradFi & Macroeconomics

Strategy plans to shift STRC dividend payments from monthly to semi-monthly to improve liquidity and allow faster reinvestment for shareholders. The proposal keeps the annual yield at 11.5% but awaits shareholder approval amid criticisms regarding its Bitcoin exposure.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz will halt the export of about 4 million barrels of Iraqi crude oil in the coming three days, according to an Iraqi Oil Ministry official.

Bitwise is launching an Avalanche ETF, BAVA, on April 15, 2026, offering investors 5.4% staking yield while allocating 80% of assets to AVAX. The fund targets institutional uses of Avalanche, enhancing liquidity and low fees.

Iran is utilizing Bitcoin for oil transit fee settlements via the Strait of Hormuz, but stablecoins dominate actual fund transfers in these transactions.

Hong Kong's Financial Secretary Deputy Chief Lam Ho-him noted increased interest from Middle Eastern clients in transferring funds and opening local accounts. He highlighted mutual engagement, the expansion of virtual insurance in the region, and the introduction of Islamic bond ETFs, indicating Hong Kong's development as a digital asset innovation hub.

The technology sector faces a significant debt refinancing challenge as $330 billion in high-yield bonds, leveraged loans, and business development company-linked debt matures through 2028, with the majority of this debt issued during the pandemic's near-zero interest rate era. According to the

The U.S. Treasury's OFAC sanctions list includes 518 Bitcoin addresses that have significantly engaged in crypto transactions, currently holding about 9,306 BTC valued at $707 million, highlighting the relationship between cryptocurrency and financial regulation.

The Trump-Iran war has severely disrupted global oil supply, cutting over 500 million barrels and causing $50 billion in losses in seven weeks. Analysts predict prolonged impacts on supply chains, with significant recovery delays expected.

Manycore Tech, a Hangzhou-based spatial AI firm, successfully launched on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising US$157 million. The company's stock opened significantly higher, reflecting strong investor demand and a turnaround to profitability after years of losses.

Bitcoin rose to $78,000 but dropped to $76,091 following reports of tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's actions triggered $762 million in liquidations among traders, with implications for crypto markets as Iran accepts payments in bitcoin and other currencies to navigate sanctions.

China's clean energy exports surged in March, with solar cell exports up 80% and EVs rising 53%, fueled by global demand amidst oil supply issues. However, domestic overcapacity and international tariffs pose challenges to the industry's growth.

Tesla is expanding its self-driving taxi service to Dallas and Houston, following Austin's rollout. Operating under a TNC permit, the service starts small, raising competition with Waymo. Tesla faces safety concerns and regulatory scrutiny amid market implications for its valuation.

Shoukang Securities received regulatory approval for its Hong Kong IPO to issue up to 1.048 billion H shares, enhancing its dual-listing strategy. The company plans to use proceeds for business expansion and technology investments, despite prior regulatory scrutiny.

India's Foreign Ministry summoned Iran's ambassador to protest IRGC naval attacks on Indian-flagged ships in the Strait of Hormuz, demanding an explanation. One ship carrying crude oil was damaged, but all crew members are safe.

U.S. military officials announced plans to board and seize Iranian-linked vessels in international waters, marking an escalation in operations targeting Iran's maritime assets beyond the Middle East.

Iran's Martyrs and Veterans Affairs Foundation has reported 3,468 Iranian personnel casualties in the U.S.-Israel conflict, according to Chairman Mousavi and state media.

Ukrainian Prosecutor General Irina Kravchenko announced that a shooting in Kyiv has been classified as a terrorist attack, prompting criminal proceedings under national law. The investigation is ongoing.

Iran's Foreign Minister affirmed the Strait of Hormuz is open to commercial shipping, ensuring freedom of navigation amid regional tensions, crucial for global oil exports.

XRP ETFs saw $1.5 billion in inflows post-regulatory clarity, driven by strong institutional demand and new SEC rules. Major firms increased their holdings, and XRP network activity surged, indicating robust adoption and investor interest in crypto.