Coinbase Aims to Be Top Financial App, Scales Stablecoins in 2026

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has set an audacious goal for 2026: to transform the cryptocurrency exchange into the world’s leading financial application. Central to this strategy is a major scaling of stablecoin offerings and payments infrastructure, alongside a global push for onchain adoption via its Base network. While the announcement builds on strong Q3 2025 financial results, industry analysts caution that the timeline may be ambitious, emphasizing that true mass adoption requires solving tangible user problems beyond mere technological migration.

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Coinbase Denies Role in Trump-Binance Scrutiny Report

Crypto commentator Matt Wallace accused Coinbase of undermining Binance over fears of CZ Zhao’s potential return, calling the alleged actions ‘anti-American.’ Bloomberg’s report tied Binance to Trump’s World Liberty Financial stablecoin, USD1, and suggested CZ sought a pardon after a UAE investment deal. Coinbase’s legal chief denied involvement, dismissing the claims as misinformation. Industry figures like Anndy Lian criticized the report for relying on anonymous sources. CZ, who stepped down as Binance CEO last year, confirmed seeking a pardon but ruled out a leadership return.

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El Salvador’s Bitcoin Strategy Amid IMF Deal Scrutiny

El Salvador, the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, has reportedly acquired 7 BTC worth over $650,000 despite an IMF agreement requiring the government to halt Bitcoin accumulation. The IMF’s Rodrigo Valdes confirmed compliance with the non-accumulation clause, but industry experts like Anndy Lian argue the agreement may still permit purchases through non-public sector entities. This strategy highlights the tension between crypto adoption and traditional financial policies, offering lessons for other nations exploring digital assets. El Salvador’s approach balances its Bitcoin-friendly image with securing IMF funding to address public debt challenges.

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Thailand’s Evolving Crypto Regulations Amid Crackdown on Illegal Activities

Thai authorities have intensified their crackdown on unlicensed cryptocurrency firms, resulting in the arrest of 11 individuals and the seizure of evidence linked to illegal e-money operations. Despite these actions, experts suggest that the focus is primarily on fraudulent activities rather than an overall suppression of the crypto industry. Meanwhile, the Thai SEC is proposing new regulations to allow mutual and private funds to invest in digital assets, aiming to attract legitimate investment and align with international standards.

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Kentucky Proposes Bill for Bitcoin Reserves Amid Growing State Interest

Kentucky has introduced KY HB376, allowing the State Investment Commission to invest up to 10% of excess reserves in Bitcoin and other digital assets with a market cap over $750 billion, currently only Bitcoin qualifies. This move aligns with 15 other states exploring similar policies, raising potential federal scrutiny regarding Bitcoin’s classification in public reserves. Concerns about Bitcoin’s volatility and security measures are also highlighted, emphasizing the need for robust governance and risk management strategies.

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