Hey crypto addicts,


The line between crypto and artificial intelligence is getting thinner as 0G launches a new system that turns staking into access to AI computing power. Its Ascend product gives users a liquid staking token called a0G, which can then be used to mint iAI and generate credits for eligible AI services. The model introduces what 0G calls “Compute Finance,” linking digital assets directly to usable computing resources.

The system works through five steps: stake 0G, receive a0G, mint iAI, stake iAI, and collect compute credits. The credits can be used across selected 0G services, including Private Computer and the 0G App, while Infinite AI is scheduled to launch on September 29. Unlike traditional staking rewards, the output here is access to computing rather than cash or a standard token payout.

The launch highlights a broader shift toward combining blockchain infrastructure with the rapidly expanding AI economy. As protocols experiment with turning staking positions into real-world digital services, crypto is moving beyond financial applications into new models for accessing computing power. Here’s what you need to know from today’s crypto market.☕

What we’ve covered for you today:

Crypto’s security battle is moving deeper into the devices people use to store their assets. SlowMist has warned that attackers may have adapted the Darksword exploit to target iPhones running iOS 26.5, potentially exposing private keys and recovery data from self-custody wallets. The attack can reportedly begin when users open a malicious link through Safari, allowing attackers to bypass multiple layers of iOS security.

The warning comes with an important caveat: Apple and Google have not independently confirmed that iOS 26.5 is vulnerable to the adapted exploit. Google previously documented Darksword attacks against iOS 18.4 through 18.7, with the original vulnerabilities subsequently patched in later updates. SlowMist is urging users to keep their devices updated and avoid unsolicited links as mobile threats targeting crypto wallets continue to evolve.

The episode highlights how crypto security increasingly depends not only on wallets and blockchains, but also on the devices holding sensitive credentials. As self-custody grows, protecting private keys means paying attention to software updates, malicious websites, and the security of the entire device. Here’s what you need to know from today’s crypto market.☕

Tokenized stocks are gaining a regulatory opening in the U.S., but demand may not immediately follow. TD Cowen expects limited near-term adoption among retail and institutional investors because Americans already have easy access to highly liquid traditional markets. The firm also found that many stock issuers show little interest in creating blockchain-based versions of their shares.

The SEC recently created a five-year framework allowing qualifying venues to trade tokenized U.S. stocks through permissioned automated market makers and liquidity pools. Yet thin liquidity and added operational complexity could make it difficult for tokenized markets to compete with established exchanges. TD Cowen also noted that perpetual futures currently attract significantly more trading activity for crypto-based stock exposure.

The developments show that regulatory access is only one part of building a new market. Tokenized stocks now have a path to operate in the U.S., but adoption will depend on liquidity, issuer participation, trading costs, and the advantages they can offer investors. Here’s what you need to know from today’s crypto market.☕

The Liquid Network exploit has sparked a debate over where white-hat hacking ends and theft begins. Attackers drained roughly 4,000 BTC from Liquid before returning 3,400 BTC after the vulnerability was patched, while about 598.5 BTC remains in their possession. Immunefi CEO Mitchell Amador says retaining user funds and setting bounty terms without prior authorization crosses the line into theft.

The exploit stemmed from a vulnerability in Liquid’s transaction verification logic that allowed attackers to create unbacked L-BTC and convert it into real Bitcoin. Blockstream has rejected the attackers’ 10% bounty demand and said it will not pay for the return of the remaining funds. The incident has also pushed security experts to call for protocols to establish rescue rules and bounty limits before an exploit occurs.

The episode highlights a growing challenge for crypto security as protocols balance vulnerability disclosure, user protection, and incentives for researchers. It also shows why clear rules around emergency interventions can matter as much as the technology itself. Here’s what you need to know from today’s crypto market.☕

Looking to put your quantitative thinking into practice? We provide the tools and the platform.

With over 700,000 users from around the world, WorldQuant BRAIN enables students and researchers to explore ideas, develop quantitative skills and engage with a global community driven by curiosity.

Find out more about WorldQuant BRAIN®

X has sued operators of several Bitcoin-focused accounts, alleging they manipulated engagement to collect at least £207,384, or roughly $278,000, through its former Creator Revenue Sharing program. The company claims six main accounts coordinated likes, reposts, and nearly identical posts to create

The European Central Bank is bringing central bank money onto blockchain as it launches Pontes, a new system for settling wholesale tokenized assets. The platform gives financial institutions an alternative to privately issued stablecoins for settling transactions on distributed ledgers.

Bitcoin surged above $86,000 for the first time since late January, climbing nearly 6% as falling oil prices helped lift broader risk sentiment. The move pushed Bitcoin to a new 33-week high around $86,332, while nearly $800 million in crypto short positions were liquidated over 24 hours.

👇 All completely free, one click to subscribe.