At the Clear Summit 2025 in Milan, Italy, crypto momentum took center stage. A new survey reveals that 68% of Italian investors want their banks to offer Bitcoin and crypto services—marking a historic shift in public sentiment toward digital assets. With 24% of respondents already invested in crypto and another 29% planning to jump in soon, it’s clear that Italians are no longer waiting for banks to catch up—they're demanding it. The era of Bitcoin as a fringe asset is over. Now, it’s knocking on the front doors of traditional finance. As Italy inches closer to crypto-friendly banking, savvy investors are turning their attention to the next wave of altcoins leading this digital evolution. Here are the best cryptos to buy now as Europe’s financial tide turns. Best Crypto to Buy Now - Top 4 List Crypto adoption is accelerating—and the right tokens now could be the power plays of tomorrow. From AI-infused meme coins to creator-first ecosystems, these picks are more than trends—they’re tools for the new economy. MIND of Pepe With a majority of Italians backing Bitcoin’s entry into traditional banking, the narrative around digital assets is clearly shifting. Riding this wave of mainstream interest is MIND of Pepe —a meme coin that blends AI-powered tools with community-driven energy, offering a smarter and more strategic take on viral tokens. In this environment, tokens that blend cultural relevance with utility stand out. Enter MIND of Pepe—a meme-powered, AI-integrated token designed to represent more than just value. It’s a symbol of crypto’s evolution into a cultural movement. MIND of Pepe isn’t just a meme coin; it incorporates elements of AI agents, creative interaction, and community intelligence. As traditional banks move toward crypto adoption, tokens like MIND will play a key role in onboarding new users—not just through tech, but through entertainment, relatability, and humor. For Italy, where meme culture and social media engagement are thriving, MIND of Pepe offers an inviting entry point into crypto. Its unique approach lowers the barrier to entry, making crypto fun, accessible, and emotionally engaging—especially for younger, digitally native generations who may soon manage their crypto directly through bank-linked wallets. MIND of Pepe has become a popular name among several leading content creators too. The 99Bitcoins YouTube channel was one of the many entities that endorsed the project and claimed that it has huge potential for growth. As banks begin embracing digital assets, MIND of Pepe represents the cultural face of this financial shift. It’s not just about investing—it’s about joining a movement that blends technology, community, and personality in a way that traditional finance never could. BTC Bull Italian crypto enthusiasts have made one thing loud and clear—Italians aren’t just curious about crypto; they’re ready to see Bitcoin in banks. That shift in mindset opens the floodgates for BTC-inspired tokens like BTC Bull , which blends grassroots energy with the rising call for institutional acceptance. Amid this growing appetite for Bitcoin access through banks, BTC Bull presents a bold opportunity for investors seeking more than just passive exposure. BTC Bull is a community-driven token designed to amplify gains during Bitcoin bull markets. As Italian investors push for easier crypto access, BTC Bull can position itself as the go-to option for those who believe in Bitcoin’s future and want to capitalize on its uptrends—without relying solely on BTC price action. As banks begin offering Bitcoin accounts, ETFs, and custodial services, a new wave of retail interest is bound to follow. BTC Bull rides this momentum, offering a tokenomics model built around Bitcoin’s price cycles, bullish sentiment, and community engagement. For retail investors who are entering crypto via trusted banking portals, BTC Bull offers a strategic way to participate in Bitcoin’s growth with more upside potential—especially in times of market optimism, like now. In a market where Bitcoin is increasingly seen as the new gold, BTC Bull gives it horns—allowing everyday investors to ride the wave with added power and excitement. SUBBD At the Clear Summit 2025, the message was loud and clear—Europeans want crypto that works for them, not just with them. SUBBD enters the picture not as a buzzword-heavy token, but as a functional tool to eliminate subscription chaos. In an era of financial redefinition, practicality is power—and SUBBD delivers just that. SUBBD is a Web3-powered platform focused on content monetization, built for creators who want to control their income, community, and reach. As banks and traditional finance start embracing crypto, platforms like SUBBD will benefit from a new wave of legitimacy and user adoption. Imagine a creator in Italy receiving subscription payments directly into a crypto wallet, converting earnings to stablecoins, or staking them—all without needing traditional intermediaries. With banks integrating crypto services, creators could even connect their SUBBD wallets directly to bank accounts, bridging the gap between decentralized content platforms and real-world utility. SUBBD thrives in this environment by offering tools for direct creator-fan engagement, automated subscription models, and transparent earnings through blockchain. As Italy moves toward mainstream crypto adoption, SUBBD stands ready to give creators the infrastructure to monetize more freely, globally, and securely. https://t.co/C85UjAUGYp — SUBBD (@SUBBDofficial) April 17, 2025 Crypto banking isn’t just a win for investors. It’s a massive opportunity for the creator class—and SUBBD is building the platform they’ll need to thrive in this new financial era. Solana Italy’s latest pro-Bitcoin stance at the Clear Summit 2025 isn’t just a win for BTC—it’s a signal that Europe is ready to embrace blockchain infrastructure. As scalability becomes a top priority, Solana’s lightning-fast ecosystem emerges as a frontrunner for powering the next generation of financial innovation. Solana uses a unique combination of Proof-of-History (PoH) and Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanisms to enable fast, scalable, and decentralized applications (dApps). Solana is not just another blockchain; it's one of the fastest and most scalable networks in the crypto world, capable of handling over 65,000 transactions per second with near-zero fees. For banks exploring crypto integrations, this is a game-changer. As financial institutions look to adopt user-friendly crypto products—like savings accounts in stablecoins, instant cross-border transfers, and digital asset trading—they need technology that’s reliable, cheap, and scalable. Solana checks all three boxes. Unlike older, congested networks, Solana offers institutional-grade throughput with the speed and responsiveness needed to onboard thousands—if not millions—of users. Its growing ecosystem of DeFi protocols, tokenized assets, and stablecoins makes it an ideal launchpad for banks to build upon. With countries like Italy warming up to crypto integration, the demand for high-performance blockchain platforms is only going to grow. Solana’s efficiency and ecosystem depth make it a natural pick for the next wave of institutional and real-world adoption. Conclusion Italy’s crypto awakening isn’t just symbolic—it’s structural. As banks prepare to open their vaults to Bitcoin, the ecosystem around it is already evolving. These aren’t just tokens—they’re signals of what’s next. From creator-driven models to AI-powered communities, each one reflects a future where crypto isn’t the alternative—it’s the infrastructure. If you’re scanning the horizon for the best crypto to buy now, these picks aren’t just timely—they’re foundational. Disclaimer: This is a sponsored article and is for informational purposes only. It does not reflect the views of Crypto Daily, nor is it intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, or financial advice.
The South China Morning Post (SCMP) has filed a police report over a copycat website pushing fake digital asset investments. According to the online publication website, the move to report to the police was necessary following the impersonation of its digital publication to spread cryptocurrency scams. According to the website , the fraudulent website had published fabricated news containing claims that Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing had promoted cryptocurrency auto trading during a live television interview. The said article, which was dated April 17, featured several edited screenshots falsely claiming that Li had revealed making millions from crypto auto trading. A snapshot of the fraudulent website. Source: SCMP. The publication noted that the Hong Kong billionaire asserted in an interview with major Hong Kong television broadcaster TVB. As if the false claims were not enough, the fraudulent website used an online interface that looked like that of SCMP, making the claims look authentic to sway unsuspecting individuals into investing in the platform. SCMP reports fraudulent website pushing fake crypto investment interview According to a spokesperson from SCMP, the issue had since been escalated to the police. “We are aware of the situation and have reported it to the police,” an SCMP spokesman confirmed. The spokesperson also advised readers to be vigilant, urging them to avoid scams and phishing websites. They noted that readers should only ensure that they access news materials through the official website. Reports have shown that the real SCMP website did not post any news related to what the impostor website posted on April 17. A quick review of the TVB website also showed that there was no broadcast or interview from Li Ka-shing to that effect. TVB has also filed a police report regarding the fraudulent claims, asking the public to remain vigilant when reading news materials from unknown websites. The incident is just one of the many cases where scammers have used the credibility that some established media organizations have built over the years. They spun these fake websites, mimicking the original ones, to lure victims. According to reports, these scammers create articles that look realistic, using a false sense of urgency in their investments to drive users to put in their funds. Scammers tick up impersonation activities These types of scams are bigger than news, as these scammers even pretend to be influential figures on social media, mimicking them to lie about an investment or new token to scam unsuspecting victims. According to SCMP, these scammers infused huge efforts in trying to replicate the SCMP aesthetic. The platform noted that it shows the growing difficulty in trying to tell apart the real news platform from the fake ones. SCMP noted that the scammers copied the website well enough to fool readers who do not practice good digital hygiene, something it claims every reader should be able to adopt. Meanwhile, scammers have been trying to use the image and brand of Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing over the last few years. Ka-shing is well known in the country and the founder of CK Hutchison Holdings, as scammers have been using his likeness to perpetrate bad acts. Experts have also urged consumers to verify news outlets and the news they come across so that they can save themselves from these types of scam activities. They mentioned that users should be able to access information from the actual website after they have verified it, instead of accessing them through emails, messages, or social media. Also, experts have warned that scammers have ticked up their activities, with most of them using claims of exaggerated returns to sway users. In light of these, traders need to be careful, even as celebrity endorsements most time may even be a ploy to scam them. Cryptopolitan Academy: Tired of market swings? Learn how DeFi can help you build steady passive income. Register Now
4chan shut down servers after a major hack. Google introduced forced reboot for Android. Trojan for Chinese smartphones stole over $1.6 million in cryptocurrencies. Vulnerabilities found in several Bitcoin wallets. Google introduced forced reboot for Android In the latest update of Google Play services, a function of automatic reboot for Android devices appeared. It will complicate data extraction using modern forensic tools. When the phone is turned on, it goes into the Before First Unlock state, in which most user data remains encrypted. But after the first unlock, in the After First Unlock (AFU) state, they become available for extraction. Thanks to the new feature, the device will automatically reboot if it remains inactive for 72 hours. Trojan for Chinese smartphones stole over $1.6 million in cryptocurrencies Dr.Web researchers reported preinstalled trojanized applications in budget copies of premium Android smartphone models from Samsung and Huawei. Among the modified programs are messengers WhatsApp and Telegram, QR code scanners, and others. The Shibai malware intercepts the app update process and also searches chats for Ethereum or Tron crypto wallet addresses and replaces them with fraudulent ones. In addition, it scans saved images for the presence of seed phrases. The attackers use about 30 domains to distribute malware and more than 60 command servers. Over the past two years, the wallets of the scheme organizers received over $1.6 million. Vulnerabilities found in several Bitcoin wallets Coinspect researchers discovered critical vulnerabilities in browser wallets Stellar Freighter, Frontier Wallet, and Coin98 that allow assets to be stolen unnoticed. To connect to dapps, browser wallets inject code into every tab visited by the user, establishing a communication channel. It allows the app to recognize the wallet and request access to key functions such as viewing balance or initiating transaction approval requests. Messages are transmitted to the Background Script, which has access to the private key. The final interaction takes place in the wallet interface. Unlike long-term connections that create separate channels for different parts of the extension, this approach does not have such separation. An attacker can intentionally cause confusion by sending a message to a privileged API through a listener in the background script. Malicious requests imitate legitimate ones and may lead to the display of the seed phrase for backup purposes. Experts have passed details about the vulnerability to the developers of each of the three wallets. So far, all have made the necessary fixes. 4chan shut down servers after major hack On April 14, the online forum 4chan was subjected to a serious attack and suspended operation . Members of the imageboard Soyjak.party took responsibility for the incident. Screenshots of the administrator and staff control panels, as well as a list of emails presumably belonging to the platform’s leaders and moderators, were leaked online. As Bleeping Computer writes , potential interception of maintenance tools gives hackers access to the location and IP address of any user, the ability to restart any 4chan boards, and manage databases. Later the same day, the forum’s source code appeared on Kiwi Farms. The alleged hackers did not disclose the attack vector. According to the community, the cause could be the platform’s outdated PHP version from 2016. To minimize damage, administrators presumably shut down the servers. At the time of writing, the site is unavailable. Darknet forum account owners offered to sell them anonymously Swiss cybersecurity company Prodaft announced the purchase of accounts from darknet forums. They are interested in accounts on XSS, Exploit, RAMP4U, Verified, and BreachForums registered before December 2022. Owners are guaranteed payment in cryptocurrency, with a higher amount for moderator or administrator accounts. The account must not be on the list of the most wanted by any law enforcement agencies. Also, as part of the initiative, users can anonymously report cybercrimes committed by someone. The deal is conducted anonymously using secure communication channels. Subsequently, the obtained data without seller information will be transferred to law enforcement for use in HUMINT operations and infiltration of closed cybercriminal communities. Reddit fulfilled only a quarter of Russia’s content removal requests The American platform Reddit received 122 content removal requests from government agencies and law enforcement of various countries in the second half of 2024. In particular, Russia sent 15 unique requests, of which the social network satisfied only four (26%). According to the report, less than a third of the requested content (27%) actually violated platform rules. Geoblocking was not applied in any case. The largest number of requests (24) was sent by the UAE authorities. In addition, a total of 27 legal requests turned out to be fake, about which Reddit notified law enforcement agencies.
Solana faces significant value loss against Bitcoin with caution advised for investors. Technical indicators signal potential aggressive price movements in the near term. Continue Reading: Solana Faces Declining Trends as Technical Indicators Signal Caution The post Solana Faces Declining Trends as Technical Indicators Signal Caution appeared first on COINTURK NEWS .
The creator of Ethereum layer 2 blockchain Base, Jesse Pollak, has apologized following backlash over posting digital artwork that controversially played on Base’s tagline, “Base is for everyone.” Several social media users found the artwork offensive and inappropriate. “It was a single phrase among many, but I’ll own this was a mistake and apologize,” Pollak said in an April 18 X post referring to his decision to reshare a GIF image that featured the phrase “Base is for...” followed by a rotating sequence of words, including both controversial terms like “pimping” and “squirting,” as well as more neutral ones like “art,” “minting,” and “ideas.” Pollak says he appreciates “provocative art” Pollak emphasized that the artwork was made by a creator, not him, and specifically apologized for the image featuring the phrase “Base is for pimping.” Pollak said that while he wants to support artists building on Base and admits he appreciates “provocative art,” he recognizes the need to be mindful of his shared messages, especially when they appear to come directly from him. Source: Jesse Pollak It comes after criticism from several crypto industry participants who took to social media to voice their disappointment over Pollak’s endorsement of the image, calling out the use of the word “pimping.” Crypto commentator “Kristel” said in an April 18 X post, “so we’re just casually platforming pimping now?” “I get pushing boundaries, but this isn’t it,” she said. “This isn’t provocative and ‘edgy,” she added. Kanto Labs founder said it is an “absolute PR nightmare.” Meanwhile, crypto commentator David Z. Morris said this “doesn’t just hurt Base, it hurts crypto.” Morris added: “The specific allusion to sex trafficking (not “sex work,” pimping is pretty fundamentally exploitation) is specifically bad for a sector that needs to advance the narrative that open finance is a net social positive.” However, many praised Pollak for the apology and his continued efforts to push boundaries in the crypto industry. “Love the honesty. We all make mistakes, but it’s about how we grow from them,” crypto commentator Zuri said . Bankless co-founder David Hoffman said , “I respect the leadership here.” Milk Road co-founder Kyle Reidhead said , “Do and share whatever you want without apology.” Base was at the center of controversy only days ago when the official X account shared a post promoting a memecoin with its marketing tagline , “Base is for everyone.” Related: Base creator Jesse Pollak to join Coinbase exec team and lead wallet charge It also shared a link to a token of the same name on Zora, a social network where users can make posts into tokens for others to speculate on. In just over an hour after it was created, the Base is for everyone token hit a peak market capitalization of $17.1 million — then dropped by nearly 90% over the next 20 minutes to a market value of $1.9 million, according to DEX Screener data . A Coinbase spokeswoman distanced Base from the token, telling Cointelegraph on April 17, "Base did not launch a token.” “This is not an official Base token, and Base did not sell this token. Base posted on Zora, which automatically tokenizes content,” the spokeswoman said. Magazine: Make Ethereum feel like Ethereum again: Based rollups explained
Crypto’s momentum is beginning to shift, and traders are paying close attention to coins that are already showing strength mid-week. Among them, XRP , Ethereum (ETH) , Solana (SOL) , and Bitcoin (BTC) are holding key levels and demonstrating renewed conviction among both retail and institutional players. But beneath the surface, one new altcoin is building the kind of early momentum that long-term traders look for before the wave hits. LIMITED SPOTS — JOIN 2025’S BIGGEST PRESALE! MAGACOINFINANCE – Early Access, Early Power Crypto’s best opportunities always feel obvious in hindsight. MAGACOINFINANCE is one of those rare moments where the signal is clear—before the crowd catches on. You’re not just early—you’re on the ground floor. But this phase doesn’t last. When exchange listings hit and exposure ramps up, this quiet opportunity becomes yesterday’s news for anyone who hesitated. This is about acting when it’s still your move to make. Every minute you wait, someone else is locking in. Are you willing to risk regret over hesitation? Early buyers can still activate the MAGA50X promo, unlocking 50% more tokens on every purchase. That means more value, stronger entry, and a better edge once listings begin. 2025’S MOST TALKED ABOUT CRYPTO — JOIN 12,500+ INVESTORS TODAY! Other Movers to Watch XRP remains a crowd favorite due to its real-world integrations and legal clarity progress. ETH continues to dominate Layer-1 development activity. SOL is driving forward with its efficient network and developer growth, and BTC is holding its macro dominance despite recent volatility. TON is expanding within messaging platforms and gaining user traction , SUI continues building infrastructure for modular blockchain development , Chainlink (LINK) remains the leader in real-time data feeds for smart contracts. GET 50% EXTRA BONUS – USE CODE MAGA50X – LIMITED TIME OFFER Conclusion The market may be stabilizing, but MAGACOINFINANCE is accelerating. As XRP , ETH , SOL , and BTC draw attention, those chasing real upside are locking in before the crowd catches on. Don’t wait for the wave—position before it breaks. Website: magacoinfinance.com Twitter/X: https://x.com/magacoinfinance Continue Reading: Momentum Picks Right Now: XRP, Ethereum, Solana, and BTC
With strong liquidity, solid volume, and a key position in the perp DEX space, HYPE is set for growth.
Bitcoin is currently in a consolidation phase after enduring weeks of selling pressure and heightened volatility. Despite struggling to break above the $90K level, BTC continues to hold strong above the $80K–$81K zone—a crucial support range that has kept the broader market from slipping into deeper losses. However, macroeconomic tensions persist, with the ongoing trade conflict between the United States and China fueling global uncertainty. The threat of further tariffs and an impending recession continues to weigh on risk-on assets like Bitcoin. Still, on-chain metrics suggest that larger players remain confident. According to data from Glassnode, wallets holding more than 10,000 BTC continue to accumulate, with their trend score hovering near 0.7—indicating sustained bullish activity from long-term holders. Meanwhile, smaller cohorts—ranging from less than 1 BTC to 100 BTC—have started easing their distribution, with the 10–100 BTC group now approaching a 0.5 trend score. With whales leading the charge and smaller holders beginning to follow, Bitcoin’s consolidation may set the stage for the next major move once macro conditions stabilize. Bitcoin Whales Lead Accumulation Amid Global Uncertainty Bitcoin is at a pivotal moment as global tensions and economic instability continue to drive volatility across markets. The escalating trade war between the United States and China has triggered waves of investor uncertainty, especially after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day tariff pause for all countries except China. With trade relations between the world’s largest economies hanging in the balance, market participants remain cautious, and Bitcoin—often viewed as a high-risk asset—continues to trade below key moving averages. Despite the bearish overhang, on-chain data from Glassnode reveals a more nuanced picture. Wallets holding over 10,000 BTC maintain a strong accumulation trend, with the trend score hovering around 0.7. This sustained activity suggests that long-term, deep-pocketed investors are undeterred by short-term price swings and continue to build positions. More notably, smaller investor groups—from wallets holding less than 1 BTC to those holding up to 100 BTC—are easing off their distribution. In particular, the 10–100 BTC group now hovers near a 0.5 trend score, a sign that this mid-sized cohort could be pivoting from selling to accumulating. This potential shift in sentiment among smaller holders could mark a turning point for the market. If macroeconomic conditions begin to stabilize and momentum follows, Bitcoin’s next breakout could be shaped by this growing alignment between whales and mid-sized investors. BTC Price Tests Liquidity Bands As Bulls Eye $90K Breakout Bitcoin is currently trading around critical liquidity levels, caught in a tight range as the market lacks clear direction. After weeks of volatility, BTC now sits in a consolidation phase, where both buyers and sellers hesitate to take control. The key challenge for bulls is to reclaim the $90K mark, which would set the stage for a recovery rally and potentially open the door for a breakout above the $95K level—a crucial threshold for re-establishing a strong bullish structure. However, before bulls can think about $90K, they must first overcome two important moving averages. The 200-day EMA, located around $85K, and the 200-day MA, near $88K, are acting as firm resistance levels. These technical indicators have historically played a key role in determining trend direction and sentiment. A sustained move above both would confirm strength and increase the likelihood of further upside. On the flip side, failure to reclaim these levels could expose BTC to renewed selling pressure. A breakdown below the $82K support zone could trigger a deeper retrace, possibly dragging price back toward the $75K region. For now, Bitcoin remains in limbo, awaiting a decisive move. Featured image from Dall-E, chart from TradingView
What are tariffs? Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods by a government or a supranational union. Occasionally, tariffs can be applied to exports as well. They generate government revenue and serve as a trade regulation tool, often to shield domestic industries. Four main categories of tariffs are: Ad valorem tariffs: These are calculated as a percentage of the good’s value. For instance, a 20% tax might be placed on $100 of goods. Specific tariffs: These are fixed fees based on the quantity of goods. For example, there might be a tariff of $5 per imported kilogram of sugar. Compound tariffs: These combine a specific duty and an ad valorem duty applied to the same imported goods. Both tariffs are calculated together to determine the total tax. For example, a country might place a tariff on imported wine at $5 per liter plus 10% of the wine’s value. Mixed tariffs: Mixed tariffs apply either a specific duty or an ad valorem duty, based on predefined conditions. For instance, for imported trucks, a country might charge either $5,000 per vehicle or 15% of the car’s value, whichever is greater. The objective of such policy is to influence international trade flows, protect domestic industries, and respond to unfair practices by foreign countries. When a tariff is applied to an imported good, it raises its cost, making domestically produced alternatives more lucrative for customers regarding price. In the US, the Trump administration uses reciprocal tariffs as a key instrument in influencing the trade policies of other countries. Reciprocal tariffs are trade duties a country imposes in retaliation to tariffs or barriers set by another country. This policy seeks to correct trade imbalances and safeguard domestic industries. Tariffs are generally collected by the customs departments of a country at ports of entry based on the declared value and classification of goods. Did you know? Some countries use tariff-rate quotas, allowing a set quantity of a product to be imported at a lower tariff. Once the quota is exceeded, a higher tariff kicks in. This system balances domestic protection with access to global markets, especially in sectors like agriculture and textiles. Trump administration’s reciprocal tariff policy US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on April 2, 2025, a day he called Liberation Day, citing his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The order placed a minimum 10% tariff on all US imports effective April 5, 2025. Reciprocal tariffs went into effect on April 9, 2025. Trump stated that the US would apply reciprocal tariffs at roughly half the rate imposed by other countries. For instance, the US imposed a 34% tariff in response to China’s 67%. A 25% tariff on all automobile imports was also announced. The Trump administration’s reciprocal tariff policy is rooted in the belief that the US faced long-standing trade imbalances and unfair treatment by global trading partners. To address this, his administration pushed for what it called reciprocal tariffs, aiming at setting a tariff structure that matched or at least was close to tariffs that foreign nations imposed on American exports. Under this approach, the administration used tariff policies to pressure countries to lower their trade barriers or renegotiate trade deals. The policy drew support from domestic manufacturers and labor groups for attempting to rebalance trade and support the US industry. But it also sparked criticism from economists and international allies who viewed it as protectionist and destabilizing the prevalent economic system in the world. The reciprocal tariffs policy has reshaped US trade relations and marked a departure from decades of multilateral, open global trade policy. Did you know? Tariffs can reshape supply chains. To avoid high import taxes, companies often relocate manufacturing to countries with favorable trade agreements. This shift doesn’t always benefit consumers, as savings are not always passed down, and logistics become more complex. The US–China tariff war: A defining economic conflict The US–China tariff war, which began in 2018 under the first Trump administration, marked a significant shift in global economic relations. The conflict between the world’s two largest economies had broad implications for global supply chains , inflation and geopolitical dynamics. The trade conflict between the US and China wasn’t just a bilateral spat. It signaled a structural rethinking of trade policy in a multipolar world. The trade war began after the US imposed sweeping tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, citing unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers by China. Over time, the US levied tariffs on more than $360 billion worth of Chinese goods. China retaliated with tariffs on $110 billion of US exports, targeting key sectors like agriculture and manufacturing. The conflict disrupted major supply chains and raised costs for American businesses and consumers. American farmers were hit hard by retaliatory Chinese tariffs on soybeans, leading the US government to provide billions in subsidies to offset losses. While the Phase One Agreement in 2020 eased tensions and required China to increase purchases of US goods and enforce intellectual property protections, many tariffs remained in place. The Biden administration retained most of the economic measures imposed by the first Trump administration, signaling bipartisan concern over China’s trade practices. As of April 10, 2025, Trump had imposed 125% tariffs on China, while for 75 countries, he had paused the imposition of tariffs for 90 days. Compared to disputes with allies like the European Union or Canada, the stakes are higher in the US–China conflict, and the consequences are more far-reaching. Here are the responses of various governments to Trump’s tariffs: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney implemented a 25% tariff on US-made cars and trucks. China will impose a 34% tariff on all US imports, effective April 10. The French prime minister described the tariffs as an economic catastrophe. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the tariffs as wrong. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen pledged a unified response and prepared countermeasures. Taiwan’s government denounced the tariffs as unreasonable. How do tariffs work? When a tariff is applied — for example, a 30% tax on imported steel — it raises the price of that good for importers. They, in turn, pass these added costs to downstream businesses, which further transfer these costs to consumers. For importers, tariffs mean higher purchase costs. If a US company imports machinery from abroad and faces a tariff, its total cost increases. This possibly reduces its profit margins or forces it to search for alternatives. Exporters in other countries may suffer if US buyers reduce orders due to higher prices, hurting their competitiveness. Domestic producers may benefit initially from a high tariff regime. Tariffs can shield them from cheaper foreign competition, allowing them to increase sales and potentially make profits. But if their operations rely on imported components subject to tariffs, their input costs may rise, offsetting gains. Consumers often bear the brunt. Tariffs can lead to price hikes on everyday goods — from electronics to apparel. In the long term, high tariffs contribute to inflation and reduce purchasing power. Tariffs also disrupt global supply chains. Many products are assembled using components from multiple countries. High tariffs on one component can cause delays, prompt redesigns, or force companies to relocate manufacturing, increasing complexity and costs. Overall, while tariffs aim to protect domestic industries, their impact is felt across the economy through altering prices, trade flows and business strategies. One way or another, tariffs influence everyone — from factory owners to workers and everyday shoppers. Trump excluded various tech products, such as smartphones, chips, computers and certain electronics, from reciprocal tariffs, providing the tech sector with crucial relief from tariff pressure. This step of Trump eased pressure on tech stocks. Trump’s tariff announcement on April 2 triggered a sharp sell-off in both equities and Bitcoin ( BTC ), with BTC plunging 10.5% in a week. Once seen as a non-correlated asset, Bitcoin now trades in sync with tech stocks during macro shocks. According to analysts, institutional investors increasingly treat BTC as a risk-on asset closely tied to policy shifts. While some view Bitcoin as digital gold, recent behavior shows it reacting more like Nasdaq stocks — falling during global uncertainty and rallying on positive sentiment. Did you know? Tariff exemptions can be highly strategic. Governments may exclude specific industries or companies, allowing them to import goods tariff-free while competitors pay more. This creates an uneven playing field and can spark domestic controversy. Why do tariffs matter for global markets? Tariffs are a robust tool in the hands of governments to shape a nation’s economic and trade strategy. They are not merely taxes on imports but a tool that influences domestic production, consumer behavior and global trade relationships. For the US, tariffs have historically been used to assert economic power on the global stage, protect emerging industries, and respond to unfair trade practices. When countries with large economies are involved, tariff decisions can impact global supply chains, shift manufacturing hubs, and alter the price of goods worldwide. Even for the smaller countries, in an interconnected world, tariffs matter because their impact goes far beyond national borders. Domestically, tariffs could boost local industries by making foreign goods more expensive. This can create jobs and support economic resilience in the short term. Governments getting larger revenue via tariffs will enable them to reduce direct taxes as Trump proposed. But they can also raise prices for consumers, hurt exporters, and trigger retaliation from trade partners. As geopolitical tensions rise and nations reevaluate their economic dependencies, tariffs have reemerged as a central element of US trade policy. Whether used defensively or offensively, they shape the balance between protectionism and global engagement. This makes tariffs a matter not just of economics, but of national strategy and global influence. Who sets tariff policy in the US? In the US, tariff policy is shaped by a combination of legislative authority, executive power and administrative enforcement. Various agencies also help in the execution of tariff policy. Congress holds the constitutional authority to regulate trade and impose tariffs. Over time, Congress has given the president significant power to change tariffs for national security, economic threats or trade violations. The Office of the US Trade Representative plays a central role in formulating and negotiating US trade policy. It leads trade talks, manages disputes, and recommends tariff actions, often in coordination with the president and Congress. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for enforcing tariffs at ports of entry. CBP collects duties based on the classification and value of imported goods according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Several major trade laws have shaped tariff policy in the US. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, aimed at protecting US farmers during the Great Depression , led to retaliatory tariffs and worsened global trade. Later, the Trade Act of 1974 gave the president tools like Section 301, which was used extensively during the US–China trade war to impose retaliatory tariffs on unfair foreign practices. Together, these actors and laws form the foundation of US tariff policy. Criticism of Trump’s tariff policy Criticism of Trump’s tariff policy surfaced following the announcement of reciprocal tariffs. Critics say this move bypasses Congress and sets a dangerous precedent for unchecked executive power in economic matters. Detractors argue that these tariffs hurt American businesses more than their intended foreign targets. A Vox article argued that low-income people would be hit more by Trump’s tariffs than by the already reeling Wall Street. Former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers fears that America may slip into recession due to tariffs, probably costing 2 million jobs nationwide. Legal challenges have also emerged regarding Trump’s tariff policy. The New Civil Liberties Alliance (NCLA), a conservative legal group, has filed a lawsuit on behalf of Simplified, a small business based in Florida that sells planners and sources goods from China. The lawsuit claims that the president overstepped his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) when imposing tariffs in a non-emergency trade context. Small and mid-sized businesses, many of which rely on global supply chains, will have to deal with rising import costs due to tariffs. This may lead to inflation and reduced competitiveness of such businesses. While the tariffs might hit China financially in the short term, the action could result in higher prices for US consumers and disrupt operations for American firms if the tariff policy continues for a long time.
The post Aptos Community Proposes 50% Cut in Staking Rewards : What’s Next for the Network? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News Aptos is making waves as a community member recently submitted a proposal on April 18 to slash the staking rewards nearly by almost 50%. The plan submitted by the member, MoonSheisty suggests lowering the rewards from 7% to 3.79% over the next three months. The plan aims to align Aptos with other Layer-1 blockchains and boost its capital efficiency. Although the proposal sparked discussions on X, the initial feedbacks on GitHub indicated some hesitation from the community. The proposal suggests that Aptos should create a community validator program to give grants and staking opportunities to the smaller validators who contribute to the ecosystem. Notably, according to data from Defilama, Aptos currently has a total value locked of $974 million as of April 18, where about $320 million comes from the lending protocol Aries Markets. However, ElagabalxNode, a community member noted that reducing the staking rewards without ‘compensatory mechanisms’ like a strong delegation program could drive away the smaller validators out of the network. This could impact Aptos blockchain’s decentralisation and its ability to stay strong in the long run. MoonSheisty claims that high staking rewards could prevent users from exploring opportunities involving high-risk and higher rewards like restaking, DePIN infrastructure, MEV, and Defi. Notably, Staking rewards differs significantly across blockchains as BNB Smart Chain’s real returns are one of the highest at 7.43%, while Cardano offers just 0.55%. Besides, benefits with staking include locking token onchain, supporting validators, securing the network. Notably, the rewards earned function similar to interest earned on a savings account, but instead of cash, stakers earn in crypto, which can fluctuate in value. The proposals to changing staking procedures are common. Polkadot had previously proposed to reduce the unstaking time to just two days. Further, in September, Starknet introduced a new staking mechanism. Meanwhile Vitalik Buterin suggested solutions to staking issues later.