Bitcoin slipped 0.5% overnight, falling under the $64,000 mark after the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting failed to announce a rate hike but hinted at increases ahead. SEC Chair Paul Atkins’ comments triggered a modest crypto sell-off, though digital assets fared better than US equities, which lost roughly $1 billion during the same period.
Meanwhile, stablecoin giant Tether is broadening its reach into African markets, aiming to boost crypto adoption on the continent through localized partnerships and infrastructure development. This move comes as African countries increasingly explore blockchain applications for financial inclusion.
US Takes Aim at Iran’s Use of Cryptocurrency
On the regulatory front, US authorities are tightening their grip on Iran’s crypto activities, particularly those tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Recent sanctions target maritime insurers facilitating Bitcoin payments connected to Iran’s regime, signaling a sharpened focus on crypto’s role in evading traditional financial restrictions.
