Apple Embraces In-App Crypto Payments

CRYPTO
Apple Embraces In-App Crypto Payments

Apple has removed its iOS restrictions banning in-app Bitcoin and cryptocurrency payments, following a court ruling against its App Store policies. This opens the door for developers to integrate direct crypto payment options, bypassing Apple’s hefty 30% commission. For the crypto ecosystem, this is monumental. It enhances accessibility, letting millions of iPhone users seamlessly pay with Bitcoin or other digital assets within apps.

This could spur mainstream adoption, especially for DeFi, NFT marketplaces, and crypto wallets. Developers now have greater freedom to innovate, potentially flooding the App Store with crypto-native apps. However, risks remain—Apple may impose new guidelines, and regulatory scrutiny could intensify. For your portfolio, expect boosted demand for payment-focused tokens and platforms. Stay vigilant as this unfolds, but the crypto horizon just got brighter

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FINANCE
Stock Market Recovers After Tariffs

The stock market has bounced back to pre-tariff levels following President Trump's announcement of tariffs on April 2, which sparked a historic selloff. The S&P 500 gained 1.5% on Friday, closing the week at 5,687, slightly above its level before Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs. The Nasdaq rose 1.5%, and the Dow Jones gained 1.4%. This marks the ninth consecutive day of gains for the S&P 500, capping a positive week for major indices.

This recovery follows the Bureau of Labor Statistics report showing 177,000 U.S. jobs added in April, exceeding the 135,000 predicted by economists. However, the report likely doesn't reflect the full impact of Trump’s tariffs. The market found relief when China signaled willingness to negotiate with the U.S. on trade, hinting at potential progress.

Despite this, the global economic outlook remains uncertain, with the U.S. GDP contracting 0.3%. Tech companies like Block and Apple have warned of the economic damage from the trade war.

FINANCE
Bezos to Sell 25 Million Shares

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos plans to sell up to 25 million shares of the company over the next year, according to a financial filing on Friday. Bezos, who stepped down as CEO in 2021 but remains Amazon’s largest shareholder, is selling these shares as part of a trading plan initiated on March 4. At the current stock price, the sale is worth approximately $4.8 billion.

The disclosure follows Amazon’s first-quarter earnings report, which showed profits and revenues surpassing expectations, although its forecast for operating income in the current quarter fell short of Wall Street's predictions. The results also suggest Amazon is preparing for potential disruptions caused by President Trump’s new tariffs, with the company recently facing scrutiny after a report about showing tariff costs to shoppers. Trump personally called Bezos to voice concerns, but Amazon clarified no such change would occur.

Bezos previously sold $13.5 billion in Amazon stock last year to fund initiatives like his space company, Blue Origin, and charitable endeavors.

DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.