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Stripe Launches Agentic Commerce Suite to Power AI-Driven Buying

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Beautiful young asian woman holding a credit card and shopping online with using laptop computer at cafe on blue tone, girl payment on internet, business ecommerce icon concept.

Stripe, a financial infrastructure platform for businesses, has announced the launch of its Agentic Commerce Suite, a new solution designed to help businesses become “agent-ready” as AI agents increasingly mediate online purchasing.

The suite enables companies to sell through AI agents more easily by improving product discoverability, simplifying checkout, and supporting agentic payments through a single integration.

To get started, businesses connect their product catalog to Stripe and select, via the Stripe Dashboard, which AI agents they want to sell through. Stripe then manages discovery, checkout, payments, and fraud detection, while sending order events back to merchants so they can continue using their existing commerce and fulfillment systems. Each component of the Agentic Commerce Suite is modular, allowing businesses to adopt only the features that best fit their needs.

Several leading brands have already begun onboarding to the suite, including URBN (Anthropologie, Free People, and Urban Outfitters), Etsy, Ashley Furniture, Coach, Kate Spade, Nectar, Revolve, Halara, and Abt Electronics.

As agentic channels emerge, businesses are seeking new ways to be discovered without having to build and maintain custom integrations for every AI agent, manage multiple catalogs and APIs, or constantly adapt to evolving standards. Stripe addresses this challenge by providing a dedicated hosted ACP endpoint that shares near real-time product, pricing, and availability data with AI agents, requiring minimal changes to existing systems.

Merchants can upload their product catalogs directly to Stripe or connect existing catalogs from leading product syndicators. Stripe then syndicates this information to supported AI agents, enabling businesses to start accepting payments across agentic platforms with a single click.

Beyond discovery, the suite helps ensure that existing commerce stacks can support taxes, shipping calculations, order management, and fulfillment for agent-driven transactions. Powered by Stripe’s Checkout Sessions API, the Agentic Commerce Suite handles key checkout elements such as shipping and taxes. Businesses can choose to rely on Stripe’s built-in products, including Stripe Tax, or integrate their own systems to manage tax codes, inventory checks, and dynamic shipping rates.

Post-purchase, merchants continue to use their existing order and fulfillment workflows. As the merchant of record, they retain full control over customer relationships, including refunds and dispute management.

Notably, the rise of agentic commerce also introduces new fraud challenges. Traditional fraud detection systems, optimized for human behavior, may misclassify AI agent activity as fraudulent, while new attack vectors may emerge as bad actors attempt to manipulate agents. To address this, the Agentic Commerce Suite introduces Shared Payment Tokens (SPTs), a new payment primitive built for agentic commerce.

SPTs allow AI agents to initiate payments using a buyer’s saved payment method without exposing sensitive payment credentials. Each token is scoped to a specific seller, limited by time and amount, and observable throughout its lifecycle to reduce unauthorized activity and disputes.

When used with Stripe, SPTs can also leverage Stripe Radar, which provides advanced risk signals such as the likelihood of fraudulent disputes, card testing, or issuer declines to distinguish trusted AI agents from low-trust automated bots.

With the Agentic Commerce Suite, Stripe aims to help businesses safely and efficiently participate in the next evolution of digital commerce, where AI agents play an increasingly central role in how customers discover and purchase products.

Analyzing Crypto Tepid Response to Fed Rate Changes

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The Federal Reserve of the United States reduced its primary interest rate by 25 basis points on October 29, 2025, lowering the target range to 3.75%-4.00%. It also announced that quantitative tightening (QT) will be terminated on December 1.

The majority of market observers expected it to mark the end of the downturn and the beginning of a new bullish phase for risk assets, including cryptocurrencies.

However, instead of a sharp rally or a total collapse, the cryptocurrency markets only moved slightly, as reflected in the crypto heatmap. What made Bitcoin and Ethereum so comparatively restrained?

The market’s advanced pricing: the “no surprise” effect

One of the main reasons is that the Federal Reserve’s cut was anticipated by market participants. Analysts, traders, and automated trading systems had already factored the 25-basis-point rate cut into their calculations through futures curves, forward rates, and risk asset valuations.

In fact, Bitcoin price fell by about 2.5% after the announcement, which was a cautious reaction rather than a wave of liquidations. The mild decline suggests that most of the policy shift had already been priced into investors’ sentiment.

Rate cuts and the end of quantitative tightening (QT) typically result in increased liquidity in the financial market, which reduces returns on safe assets and diverts capital towards high-risk areas.

By that logic, crypto should benefit the most, as it is often viewed as an “on-risk” asset class. In fact, some analysts argue that by quitting QT, the Fed is releasing liquidity that would otherwise be locked in the banking system, potentially directing the flows towards crypto, DeFi, or even tech start-ups.

Yet this liquidity boost unfolds gradually and does not directly convert into aggressive short-term bids. Often, market participants wait for confirmation before allocating capital.

The Constraint of Speech — The Tone of Powell is Important

The Fed’s verbal signals are as important as the figures. Chairman Jerome Powell’s remarks revealed disagreements within the committee concerning the future interest rate cuts and signaled caution about inflation risks.

That uncertainty lessened the enthusiasm: the cut happened, however the route remained unclear. In crypto trading, where sentiment and forward guidance are predominant factors, such a stance can even suppress the potential upside.

Crypto traders were cautious with their interpretation of Powell’s words. If investors thought that further cuts were not guaranteed, they would refrain from making bullish bets.

Crypto markets are increasingly relying on their own fundamentals — such as on-chain metrics, adoption, and network usage — rather than relying solely on pure macroeconomic factors. This allows crypto markets to behave somewhat independently of traditional macroeconomic shocks, especially when these shocks are anticipated.

Several studies of past interest rate cuts suggest that the relationship between rates and crypto returns, although historically negative, is not far from perfect. During this cycle, the response has been muted in more mature markets, with prices changing substantially only when regulatory, technological, or institutional catalysts prevail over resistance.

Even in favorable macroeconomic environments, traders may prefer to take profits rather than open new positions until the announcements are made. This type of profit-taking could slow the pace of rapid price movements.

Moreover, capital-flow restraints in the crypto market — including exchange liquidity, stablecoin supply, and capital controls — slow reactions in both speed and magnitude.

In short, limited price movement is a result of several overlapping forces: the announcement was anticipated, liquidity effects are slow, the Fed’s communication was cautious, crypto now reacts less to macroeconomic factors alone, and traders remained circumspect.

Top 9 Best Apps for Staking Crypto in 2026

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Crypto staking is entering one of its strongest phases ever. As the crypto market matures and proof-of-stake (PoS) networks continue scaling, staking has become a mainstream way for investors to earn predictable, low-effort passive income. In 2026, the competition among the best crypto staking platforms will be fierce but will also create excellent opportunities for anyone looking to earn stable, daily staking rewards.

Whether your goal is Ethereum staking, diversified PoS staking, or high-yield structured plans, this guide breaks down the Top 9 Best Apps for Staking Crypto in 2026, starting with the platform that has been sending shockwaves for the better part of 2025.

  1. GeekStake — Best Overall App for Staking Crypto in 2026

GeekStake continues to dominate the staking ecosystem with a user-first approach, instant rewards, advanced automation, and transparent returns. It offers a rare combination of high APY staking, institutional-grade security, customized plans, and one of the smoothest investor experiences in the market.

Why GeekStake Leads the Market in 2026

  • $100 free trial stake for new users
  • Daily crypto staking rewards are paid every 24 hours
  • Zero smart-contract risk. Rewards come directly from blockchain validators
  • Beginner-friendly mobile app for iOS and Android
  • AI-enhanced automated liquidity staking
  • Over $130 million in assets staked globally
  • Lifetime 5% referral rewards
  • Instant withdrawal of rewards anytime
  • Wide range of staking plans with predictable outcomes

These features make GeekStake one of the best crypto staking platforms for 2026, especially for users who want stable returns without the complexity of validator nodes or the technical risk of smart-contract staking.

GeekStake Recommended Staking Plans for 2026

Geek Growth SOL Stake

  • Price: $1,600
  • Daily Rewards: $20.32
  • Total Rewards: $60.96
  • Duration: 3 Days
  • Referral Bonus: $16.00

Geek Premium STX Stake

  • Price: $10,000
  • Daily Rewards: $187.00
  • Total Rewards: $1,870.00
  • Duration: 10 Days
  • Referral Bonus: $180.00

These plans offer predictable, fast-cycle earnings ideal for both beginners and seasoned stakers.

How to Get Started on GeekStake

  1. Download the GeekStake App for iOS or Android available on the website by scanning the QR code.
  2. Create your account with your email, username, password, and an optional referral code.
  3. Deposit your preferred asset like ETH, SOL, TRX, AVAX, and more
  4. Choose a staking plan based on your budget and reward goals
  5. Start earning daily staking rewards instantly.

Within minutes, new users can start earning passive income from staking crypto. With the GeekStake app, you can easily track your earnings on the go

  1. Binance Earn

Binance is one of the best global exchanges, offering a wide range of staking products, from locked staking and ETH staking to DeFi staking pools. While returns vary with market conditions, Binance offers competitive yields on major assets.

Best for: Multi-asset staking, flexible products, easy onboarding
Top Feature: One of the safest large-scale ecosystems for PoS rewards

  1. Coinbase Staking

Coinbase is the most beginner-friendly staking platform for US and global users who want simple, regulated access to major PoS networks.

Key features of Coinbase include:

  • High global trust and security
  • Very easy to use dashboard
  • Staking options for ETH, ADA, ATOM, and more.

Best for: New stakers and conservative investors

  1. Kraken Staking

Kraken is known for reliable yields, fast reward cycles, and transparent performance. It offers both on-chain staking and off-chain staking, depending on user needs.

Key features of Kraken include:

  • Excellent customer service
  • Wide variety of PoS assets
  • Competitive APYs

Best for: Users who value stability and institutional-level security

  1. OKX Earn

OKX has rapidly expanded its staking products, supporting flexible and fixed staking across various networks.

Key advantages of OKX include:

  • Good staking yields
  • Supports multiple PoS assets
  • In-app yield calculator

Best for: Global users seeking diversified staking options

  1. Bybit Staking

Bybit has become popular for its highest APY crypto staking opportunities through promotions, locked staking, and liquidity-based pools.

Key features of Bybit staking include:

  • High periodic promotional APYs
  • Wide selection of PoS assets
  • Smooth user interface

Best for: Investors hunting for periodic high-yield opportunities

  1. Bitget Earn

Bitget offers a clean UI, moderate APYs, and staking for mainstream assets. It has grown very fast among Asian and African markets.

Key advantages include:

  • Competitive staking yields
  • Various yield-enhanced products
  • Ideal for mid-level investors

Best for: Users who want flexible staking options

  1. KuCoin Earn

KuCoin offers a mix of soft staking, fixed staking, and promotional high-reward events that attract yield maximizers.

Key advantages include:

  • Large selection of stakable tokens
  • Soft staking, where you earn without locking
  • Wide global usage

Best for: Investors who want flexibility without long lockups

  1. Ledger Live

For users who want full self-custody with staking, Ledger Live is a top pick. It supports ETH, ADA, ATOM, DOT, and more.

Key advantages include:

  • Maximum asset security
  • Native on-chain staking
  • No centralized custodial risk

Best for: Long-term holders and security-focused investors

Conclusion

As we move into 2026, the staking landscape is rapidly maturing, giving investors more opportunities to earn passive income through secure, high-yield PoS networks.

While many platforms provide excellent staking features, GeekStake stands out as the top choice due to:

  • Predictable high returns
  • AI-enhanced automated staking
  • $100 trial bonus
  • Fast reward settlements
  • Zero contract risk
  • Beginner-friendly design

For users looking to scale their crypto earnings while minimizing risk, GeekStake is the best app for staking crypto in 2026. Sign up now and get a free $100 staking bonus.

Hang Seng Bank Endorses HSBC’s $13.6bn Take-Private Bid as Property Market Strains Intensify

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Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Bank said on Monday that an independent board committee has concluded that HSBC’s $13.6 billion proposal to take the lender private is fair and reasonable, urging minority shareholders to vote in favor of the deal in what would be a major consolidation move in the city’s banking sector.

Under the proposal, HSBC is seeking to acquire the remaining 36.5% stake in Hang Seng that it does not already own, a transaction that would bring one of Hong Kong’s most established financial institutions fully under the control of its largest shareholder. HSBC already holds a controlling interest in the bank and has been closely involved in its strategic direction for decades.

The board committee’s endorsement marks an important step in the process, providing reassurance to minority investors that the offer adequately reflects Hang Seng’s value amid a difficult operating environment. The recommendation comes as Hang Seng, like several Hong Kong lenders, faces mounting headwinds from prolonged weakness in the property sector, rising credit risks, and a slower economic recovery in both Hong Kong and mainland China.

HSBC has positioned the deal as part of a broader effort to simplify its structure and strengthen its core Asian franchise. When the transaction was announced, HSBC chief executive Georges Elhedery told Reuters that the group continues to pursue selective acquisitions while divesting non-core assets, aiming to deploy capital more efficiently and focus on businesses where it sees long-term strategic value.

The pressures have been building for Hang Seng for years. The bank has relatively high exposure to Hong Kong and mainland Chinese property developers, many of which remain heavily indebted after a prolonged downturn. With bond maturities for property firms expected to jump by nearly 70% next year, lenders and creditors are bracing for intensified financial stress, raising concerns about asset quality, loan impairments, and earnings volatility.

Analysts say taking Hang Seng private could give HSBC greater flexibility to manage these challenges. Full ownership would allow HSBC to absorb potential short-term losses, restructure exposures, and pursue longer-term adjustments without the scrutiny and market pressure that come with a publicly listed subsidiary. It could also enable closer integration of Hang Seng’s operations with HSBC’s wider Asia strategy, particularly in retail banking, wealth management, and digital services.

Hang Seng Bank, founded in 1933, is one of Hong Kong’s largest and most recognizable lenders. It serves about 4 million customers through digital platforms and a network of more than 250 branches across the city, according to the bank. It is a principal member of the HSBC group and has historically been seen as a bellwether for Hong Kong’s retail banking sector.

The deal also reflects a broader trend of global banks reassessing their structures in Asia amid shifting growth dynamics, regulatory demands, and geopolitical uncertainty. For HSBC, consolidating ownership of Hang Seng could help reduce complexity while reinforcing its long-standing commitment to Hong Kong, even as the city’s economy adjusts to higher interest rates and a structurally weaker property market.

While the transaction still requires shareholder approval, the backing of Hang Seng’s independent board committee is likely to influence the outcome, particularly for minority investors weighing the certainty of HSBC’s offer against the risks tied to prolonged property-sector stress and an uncertain regional outlook.

Trump Administration Launches ‘U.S. Tech Force’ to Recruit 1,000 Engineers To Accelerate AI Adoption

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The Trump administration has officially launched the “U.S. Tech Force,” a major new federal initiative aimed at recruiting approximately 1,000 elite engineers, data scientists, and technology specialists to significantly accelerate the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and modernize critical federal government infrastructure.

Announced by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the program is framed as a “clarion call” for top talent to serve the country and is a strategic move to secure America’s dominance in the AI arms race against global competitors, particularly China. The initiative closely follows President Donald Trump’s signing of an executive order aimed at establishing a “minimally burdensome national policy framework” for AI, which seeks to preempt conflicting state-level AI regulations.

The U.S. Tech Force is designed as a highly compensated, short-term talent injection program for the federal government. Participants commit to a two-year employment program, during which they will work in specialized teams that report directly to agency leaders. The initial cohort of approximately 1,000 technologists will be placed across a wide variety of federal agencies, including the Departments of Defense, Treasury, State, Labor, and Health and Human Services, as well as the IRS and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. Most of the roles are anticipated to be based in Washington, D.C.

The focus of the engineering corps is on “high-impact technology initiatives,” which include:

  • AI implementation across federal services.
  • Application development for new digital services.
  • Data modernization of legacy systems.
  • Digital service delivery improvements for the American public.

To successfully compete with lucrative private-sector compensation, annual salaries for the Tech Force members are expected to range from $150,000 to $200,000, plus full federal benefits. These roles will typically be classified at the senior General Schedule levels, likely falling into the GS-13 or GS-14 categories, depending on experience and location.

The OPM Director, Scott Kupor, emphasized the program’s unique value proposition, asking: “Do you want to do good for the country, and also, do you want to advance your career?”

A foundational element of the U.S. Tech Force is its deep partnership with the American technology industry, designed to establish a “two-way talent mobility mechanism” between the public and private sectors. The program has secured commitments from approximately 25 leading technology companies to participate, including virtually every major player in cloud computing and AI development. The initial list includes:

  • Cloud/Infrastructure: Amazon Web Services, Dell Technologies, Microsoft, Oracle.
  • AI/Software: Google Public Sector, Nvidia, OpenAI, Palantir, Salesforce.
  • Others: Apple, Meta, Adobe, IBM.

The private partners will provide valuable career development resources and mentorship to the Tech Force members during their government tenure. Upon completing the two-year program, these companies have formally committed to actively considering the program’s alumni for full-time employment, effectively creating a high-prestige pipeline into top technology firms.

The partnership also allows the companies to nominate their own employees to take temporary leaves of absence for short service stints within government agencies. This mechanism is intended to directly inject real-world, cutting-edge private-sector expertise and technical skills into the federal government’s technology teams.

The National AI Policy Framework

The Tech Force initiative is directly tied to the President’s December 11, 2025, Executive Order, “Ensuring a National Policy Framework for Artificial Intelligence.” This order outlines a federal strategy to sustain U.S. global AI dominance through a “minimally burdensome” national policy, a clear victory for Silicon Valley companies that have long lobbied against a patchwork of state-level AI regulations.

The Executive Order’s key directives to achieve this framework include:

  • Establishing an AI Litigation Task Force in the Department of Justice to challenge state AI laws deemed inconsistent with the federal minimally burdensome standard.
  • Directing the Secretary of Commerce to identify “onerous” state AI laws and evaluate whether certain federal funding, such as the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program, should be conditioned on states not enacting or enforcing conflicting AI laws.

By launching the U.S. Tech Force immediately after this policy directive, the administration is simultaneously attempting to secure the technological talent necessary for federal AI implementation and assert federal authority over the regulatory landscape, especially in the face of a standoff with states.