Fed cuts rates

Fed cuts rates

The U.S. Federal Reserve has announced a quarter-point cut to its benchmark interest rates. It’s the first reduction of the year, decided to support an economy showing signs of slowing while inflation remains higher than expected.

This decision is expected to ripple through the real economy. Short-term interest rates—particularly on consumer loans, credit cards, and some mortgages—could decline slightly, making financing more accessible for households and businesses.

Financial markets have already reacted positively, anticipating broader easing in the months ahead. Stocks, especially in credit-sensitive sectors such as real estate and technology, could benefit from renewed inflows of investment.

The cryptocurrency market may also profit from this policy shift. Assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum often thrive under looser monetary policies, as capital flows into more dynamic investments.

However, Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized caution. Future cuts will depend on inflation and employment data. A monetary policy that loosens too quickly could risk reigniting inflationary pressures.

This decision marks a turning point in U.S. economic strategy. It may support short-term growth, but its lasting impact will depend on whether the economy can remain stable without triggering another wave of inflation.

Metamask prepares mask token

MetaMask, through Joseph Lubin (Consensys), has confirmed the upcoming launch of MASK, its native token. The announcement has reignited expectations among users, as the token is said to be closely tied to the platform’s decentralization principles.

The idea is for MASK to reward loyal, active holders who engage in the MetaMask ecosystem, rather than simply serve as a speculative token. There is speculation about a potential MASK allocation for holders of the LINEA token, possibly through an airdrop or specific rewards.

Though details remain unclear, Lubin hinted that the launch could happen sooner than expected. The token could grant new rights (rewards, partial governance) or user benefits, though the exact strategy remains to be defined.

Some in the community express excitement, believing MASK could strengthen engagement around MetaMask while enhancing its integration with wallet services, dApp portals, and Web3.

Others urge caution: without a clear framework, a premature token launch could create unmet expectations. The success of MASK will depend on transparency, fair distribution, and real utility.

Circle strengthens position in hyperliquid

Circle has reached a major milestone in its growth strategy by deploying native USDC on Hyperliquid via the HyperEVM chain. This integration allows platform users to deposit and use USDC directly without relying on bridges or “wrapped” versions. At the same time, Circle made its first investment in the HYPE token, signaling a more active role in network governance, and is considering becoming a validator.

This technical step is paired with the activation of version 2 of the cross-chain transfer protocol (CCTP V2), enabling smoother, more secure interchain transfers of USDC. The team also plans to expand interoperability by connecting Hyperliquid to HyperCore, making fund transfers even easier between users and protocols.

The move comes as Hyperliquid prepares to launch its own native stablecoin, USDH. This development positions Circle proactively to maintain a strong share of the stablecoin market on the platform, even as new competitors emerge.

By establishing an early foothold in the Hyperliquid ecosystem, investing in HYPE, and building developer tools (SDKs, incentives, integrations), Circle aims to solidify its role as a key provider of stablecoin infrastructure. It’s a strategy to safeguard its lead while offering users more accessibility and liquidity.

The approach also shows that Circle is no longer just providing a stable token: it wants to actively shape the ecosystem around DeFi, perpetual contracts, and emerging protocols. If it can combine strong governance, security, and interoperability, Circle could protect itself against being overtaken by future challengers such as USDH.