Foreign purchases of US assets surged to a record high in the second quarter, according to Federal Reserve Board data, underscoring a pivotal shift in global investment patterns. While spending on travel and select US-made goods has softened, the American stock market has proven irresistible to international capital, largely fueled by the explosive growth of artificial intelligence. This trend highlights the magnetic pull of tech titans like Nvidia Corp., Microsoft Corp., and Alphabet Inc., whose soaring valuations are drawing unprecedented foreign investment into United States equities.
about Foreign Investors Drive Record US Stock Purchases in Q2Federal Reserve Board
0 in Finance and 0 in Crypto last weekTrump’s Order Opens 401(k)s to Crypto Investments
President Donald Trump signed an executive order permitting cryptocurrencies and other alternative assets like private equity and real estate to be included in 401(k) and other defined-contribution retirement plans. The order instructs the US Labor Department to review existing restrictions, marking a significant policy shift. While the crypto industry has welcomed the move, skeptics urge caution. US retirement assets totaled $43.4 trillion in Q1 2025, with defined-contribution plans, including $8.7 trillion in 401(k)s, making up over $12 trillion. The decision could reshape retirement investment strategies but raises questions about risk and regulation.
about Trump's Order Opens 401(k)s to Crypto InvestmentsBitcoin Rises as Trump Picks Pro-Crypto Fed Nominee
Bitcoin climbed to $117,500 following Trump’s nomination of Stephen Miran, a known Bitcoin advocate, to the Federal Reserve Board. Miran’s appointment is seen as a dovish shift, aligning with Trump’s push for easier monetary policy. Analysts caution that reduced Fed independence could fuel inflation, drawing parallels to the 1970s when gold prices skyrocketed after the collapse of Bretton Woods. Despite Bitcoin’s rally, its market cap remains dwarfed by traditional assets like NVIDIA, suggesting room for growth if inflation fears escalate. Weak Treasury demand and rising gold prices signal market concerns over persistent inflation, with the latest PCE reading at 2.6%, above the Fed’s target.
about Bitcoin Rises as Trump Picks Pro-Crypto Fed NomineeAdriana Kugler Resigns from Federal Reserve Board
Federal Reserve Board member Adriana Kugler has resigned, effective August 8, citing no specific reason but planning to return to her academic role at Georgetown University. Her departure occurs during a politically charged period for the US central bank, with President Trump challenging the Fed’s traditional independence. Kugler, whose term was set to end in January, expressed pride in serving during a critical phase of the Fed’s dual mandate—controlling inflation while maintaining labor market strength. The resignation adds to the uncertainty surrounding Jerome Powell’s leadership and the Fed’s future direction.
about Adriana Kugler Resigns from Federal Reserve BoardJPMorgan Considers Crypto-Backed Loans Despite Dimon’s Past Criticism
JPMorgan is considering launching crypto-backed loans, allowing customers to use Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) as collateral—a notable reversal from CEO Jamie Dimon’s earlier skepticism. The Financial Times reports the initiative could start next year, though plans remain fluid. Dimon, who once threatened to fire traders dealing in Bitcoin, has softened his stance, acknowledging crypto’s role in finance. The bank may first lend against crypto ETFs before accepting direct digital asset collateral. Competitors like Morgan Stanley are also entering the space, while Goldman Sachs remains hesitant. Regulatory progress, including a recent stablecoin bill and relaxed Federal Reserve rules, is encouraging traditional banks to engage with crypto despite lingering concerns over compliance and money laundering.
about JPMorgan Considers Crypto-Backed Loans Despite Dimon's Past CriticismFed’s New Vice Chair Seen as Crypto Turning Point
The U.S. Senate confirmed Michelle ‘Miki’ Bowman as Vice Chair for Supervision of the Federal Reserve Board with a 48-46 vote, succeeding Michael Barr. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) praised the decision, stating it marks a ‘turning point’ for digital assets, emphasizing Bowman’s commitment to evidence-based regulation and innovation in banking. During her nomination hearing, Bowman advocated for regulatory support of new technologies to enhance banking services. The Crypto Council for Innovation endorsed her nomination, citing her openness to digital asset discussions. Bowman will serve a four-year term, with stakeholders anticipating her leadership will foster responsible financial innovation.
about Fed's New Vice Chair Seen as Crypto Turning PointCrypto Threatens U.S. Dollar Dominance, Says Ex-IMF Economist
Harvard economist and former IMF chief Kenneth Rogoff asserts that cryptocurrencies are undermining the U.S. dollar’s supremacy, especially in the underground economy, which he estimates at $20–$25 trillion. Rogoff notes that crypto is increasingly replacing the dollar in illicit transactions, tax evasion, and sanctions avoidance, weakening the dollar’s global influence. This shift could lead to higher interest rates and reduced U.S. financial leverage. While Rogoff acknowledges crypto’s value as a medium of exchange, he clarifies it won’t replace the dollar in regulated markets. The trend highlights the tension between crypto’s utility in unregulated spaces and its impact on traditional financial systems.
about Crypto Threatens U.S. Dollar Dominance, Says Ex-IMF EconomistBTC Surges Past $94K as Crypto Market Eyes Regulatory Shifts
Bitcoin (BTC) has climbed to $94,657, marking an 11% weekly gain, with miners locking in $18.57M in profits. Institutional demand is rising, with Cantor Fitzgerald and Metaplanet accumulating BTC. The SEC, under new leadership, may bring regulatory clarity, with a third crypto roundtable meeting set for April 25. Solana (SOL) is gaining traction, with a potential spot ETF under Trump’s administration and a $500M financing facility for validators. XRP’s legal battle with the SEC may see a reduced fine, boosting its market cap to $128B. CME Group’s upcoming XRP futures and bullish technical patterns suggest further upside.
about BTC Surges Past $94K as Crypto Market Eyes Regulatory ShiftsFed Eases Crypto Rules for US Banks, Withdraws Key Letters
The Federal Reserve Board has rescinded two major supervisory letters from 2022 and 2023 that required US banks to notify regulators before conducting crypto-related activities. This decision removes previous restrictions and aligns with recent policy shifts from other banking regulators like the OCC. The withdrawn letters had mandated banks to demonstrate risk management practices and obtain supervisory approval for crypto activities. The Fed stated it will now monitor crypto through normal supervisory processes rather than special requirements. This regulatory easing comes amid broader changes in banking policy toward digital assets, including the OCC’s recent reversal on crypto holdings for national banks. The Fed hinted at future interagency collaboration to provide guidance without stifling innovation in the crypto space.
about Fed Eases Crypto Rules for US Banks, Withdraws Key LettersEconomic Outlook and Financial Stability Insights for 2024
Lisa D. Cook, chair of the Federal Reserve Board’s Committee on Financial Stability, addressed the University of Michigan, highlighting a positive economic outlook for 2024. She noted strong economic growth, declining inflation, and a solid labor market, while emphasizing the Fed’s commitment to achieving price stability and maximum employment. Cook plans to calibrate monetary policy to ensure inflation returns to the 2 percent target and to monitor financial stability risks closely.
about Economic Outlook and Financial Stability Insights for 2024Michael S Barr Resigns Signaling Change in US Crypto Regulation
Michael S. Barr, the anti-crypto Vice Chair for Supervision at the Federal Reserve, will resign effective February 28, 2025, potentially shifting U.S. cryptocurrency regulation. His departure may pause major Fed rulemaking, allowing a new administration to reshape digital asset policies. Known for restricting banks’ engagement with digital assets and opposing a U.S. central bank digital currency, Barr’s exit raises hopes for a more balanced regulatory approach as the crypto landscape evolves.
about Michael S Barr Resigns Signaling Change in US Crypto RegulationMichael Barr Resigns as Fed Vice Chair Amid Stablecoin Regulation Concerns
Michael S. Barr has resigned as Vice Chair for Supervision at the Federal Reserve, citing concerns that a potential dispute over the position could distract from the Fed’s mission. His departure comes just before Donald Trump’s inauguration, amid Barr’s warnings about the risks of unregulated stablecoins, which he believes could disrupt the financial system if widely adopted. He emphasized the need for stricter regulations to prevent the systemic risks associated with these assets.
about Michael Barr Resigns as Fed Vice Chair Amid Stablecoin Regulation Concerns