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Forbes Ranks CZ Binance Higher than Bill Gates on Billionaires Index , A Claim CZ Refuted as Inaccurate 

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According to the latest Forbes real-time billionaires data and their March 2026 updates, Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the founder and former CEO of Binance, has surpassed Bill Gates in net worth. CZ’s net worth: Estimated at around $111 billion with figures cited as $111.1B or $111.4B ranking him #17 globally.

Bill Gates’ net worth: Estimated at $105.7 billion some reports noted around $108B earlier in the month, ranking him #19 globally. This marks a significant surge for CZ, with Forbes attributing his wealth primarily to his estimated 90% ownership stake in Binance valued around $100 billion, plus holdings in BNB tokens and other crypto-related assets.

Binance’s massive trading volume, revenue estimated $16-17B annually in recent years, and market dominance drove this jump—up roughly $47 billion from the prior year. Gates’ wealth has declined relative to peaks due to extensive philanthropic donations through the Gates Foundation and impacts from his 2021 divorce.

Notably, CZ himself has publicly disputed the Forbes estimate, calling it inaccurate or illogical—pointing out that crypto markets dropped over 50% in early 2026, yet his reported net worth rose sharply. He described it as not aligning with “common sense and basic logic,” though Forbes stands by their valuation methodology.

This shift highlights crypto’s growing influence on global wealth rankings, placing CZ among the top 20 people with 12-figure fortunes and ahead of figures like Michael Bloomberg in some snapshots.

This marks a historic milestone where cryptocurrency-derived wealth has propelled someone into the ultra-elite “centibillionaire” club (12-figure fortunes), overtaking a long-time tech icon like Gates, who dominated rankings for years through Microsoft and diversified investments.

The 2026 list added five new centibillionaires, with crypto figures prominent. This signals a shift in global wealth sources toward digital assets, blockchain, and decentralized finance, potentially diversifying the top ranks beyond tech and traditional finance.

Despite CZ’s 2024 legal troubles; guilty plea to money-laundering violations, four-month prison term, $4.3 billion fine, and stepping down as CEO, Binance has rebounded strongly—retaining ~38% market share and high valuations. His post-release surge up ~$47 billion in a year implies strong recovery, possibly aided by favorable U.S. regulatory shifts l.

This crypto platforms’ ability to thrive amid scrutiny and positions Binance as a enduring powerhouse. CZ publicly disputed Forbes’ figures, arguing they “defy logic” since crypto prices dropped >50% in 2026, yet his net worth rose sharply. He called for “common sense and basic logic,” noting assumptions about private holdings (like his Binance stake) can be speculative.

This highlights ongoing debates about estimating wealth in opaque, volatile sectors like crypto—Forbes relies on comparables insider talks, and discounts for regulatory risks, but private companies lack public filings. It raises questions about accuracy in rankings for non-public assets.

Gates’ drop to ~$105–108 billion stems from massive Gates Foundation donations and his 2021 divorce—reflecting a “giving pledge” ethos in traditional tech wealth. CZ’s rise, tied to a for-profit crypto empire with less emphasis on philanthropy in public view spotlights differing paths to extreme wealth: one legacy/tech/philanthropic, the other disruptive/digital/high-risk.

It fuels discussions on wealth inequality, crypto’s societal impact, and whether new billionaires will prioritize giving back. This event amplifies crypto’s legitimacy in mainstream finance—placing its richest figure ahead of Wall Street giants (Bloomberg, Yass, Griffin) and icons like Gates. It could encourage more institutional adoption but also invite scrutiny.

Looking ahead, if crypto rebounds or Binance grows further, more figures from Coinbase, Tether, or others already on the list could climb, reshaping the billionaire landscape. It’s a vivid illustration of how rapidly emerging technologies like blockchain are rewriting wealth hierarchies—challenging old-guard titans and proving crypto’s staying power, even amid volatility and controversy.

How to Bypass iPad Activation Lock (2026 Updated)

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Are you trying to bypass iPad Activation Lock but can’t get past the lock screen on your device? This problem usually happens when you forget your Apple ID password or when you buy a second-hand iPad that is still linked to the previous owner’s account. Because of this lock, you cannot set up or use the iPad normally, which can be very frustrating.

The good news is that there are several ways to solve this problem. In this guide, we will show you how to bypass activation lock step by step using simple methods. We will also introduce Tenorshare 4uKey, a helpful tool that can remove different iPhone and iPad locks quickly and easily.

Let’s get started.

Part 1: What is Activation Lock?

Before getting straight to how to bypass iPad activation lock, it’s essential to first understand what it is. Well, Activation Lock is a security feature built into Apple devices. It automatically turns on when the Find My feature is enabled on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. The purpose of this feature is to protect your device if it is lost or stolen.

When Activation Lock is active, the device requires the Apple ID and password that were previously used to set up the device. Without these credentials, the device cannot be activated.

This is why many users search for ways to bypass iPad activation lock, especially in situations like:

  • Buying a second-hand iPad that is still linked to the previous owner
  • Forgetting the Apple ID used to set up the device
  • Encountering an ipad mini activation lock after resetting the device
  • Running into an ipad 2 activation lock when restoring an older device
  • Seeing similar security restrictions on an activation locked macbook

Although Activation Lock is designed for security, it can sometimes create problems for legitimate users who need access to their devices.

Part 2: How to Bypass iPad Activation Lock Without Apple ID (Using 4uKey)

If you don’t know the Apple ID or password linked to your device, bypassing the iPad activation lock through normal methods can be very difficult. In this case, many users turn to a professional tool like Tenorshare 4uKey, which is designed to remove various iOS locks, including screen locks and Activation Lock in certain situations, providing a simple process to help users regain access without the original Apple ID credentials.

Key Features of 4uKey

Tenorshare 4uKey offers several useful features that make it easier to deal with activation lock problems:

  • Helps bypass iPad activation lock when the Apple ID or password is not available
  • Supports many iPad models and iPadOS versions
  • Simple and user-friendly interface that beginners can easily understand
  • Can remove different locks such as screen passcodes, Face ID, and Touch ID
  • Works on both Windows and macOS computers
  • Regular updates to support newer iOS and iPadOS devices

Because of these features, many users rely on this tool when they face problems such as ipad mini activation lock or ipad 2 activation lock, especially when the previous Apple ID cannot be accessed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Bypass Activation Lock with 4uKey

Step 1: Download and Install 4uKey

Start by downloading Tenorshare 4uKey on your Windows PC or Mac. Install the program and open it. Then connect your iPad to the computer using a USB cable to begin the process.

Step 2: Enter Recovery Mode

After the device is detected, click “Next.” The software will guide your iPad to enter Recovery Mode so the unlocking process can move forward.

Step 3: Begin the Jailbreak Process

Next, the program will start preparing and jailbreaking the iPad. Keep the device connected to the computer during this step and wait until the process is completed.

Step 4: Start Removing the Activation Lock

Once the jailbreak step is finished, 4uKey will automatically begin removing the iCloud Activation Lock from the device.

Step 5: Activation Lock Successfully Bypassed

After a few minutes, the process will complete. The Activation Lock will be removed, and you will be able to set up your iPad and use it normally again.

Part 3: How to Remove Activation Lock with Apple ID (Official Method)

If you know the Apple ID and password used on the device, the easiest method is to remove the lock through Apple’s official process.

Applicable Scenarios

This method works if:

  • You know the Apple ID password
  • The previous owner can help unlock the device
  • The device is still connected to the original iCloud account

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Turn on the iPad and go to the Activation Lock screen.

Step 2: Enter the Apple ID and password that were originally used to set up the device.

Step 3: Tap Next to verify the account.

Step 4: Once verified, the device will unlock and continue the setup process.

Advantages

  • Official Apple method
  • Completely safe and secure
  • No additional software required

If the previous owner still has access to the account, this is the easiest way for how to bypass activation lock.

Part 4: How to Remove Activation Lock from a Used iPad

Many users face activation lock issues after buying a second-hand iPad. In this case, the device may still be connected to the previous owner’s Apple ID.

To remove previous owner’s Apple ID iPad, you can try the following solutions.

Contact the Previous Owner

The simplest solution is to contact the person who sold you the iPad and ask them to remove the device from their Apple ID.

Remove the Device from iCloud

The previous owner can remove the device remotely:

  1. Log in to com
  2. Open Find My iPhone
  3. Select the iPad from the device list
  4. Click Remove from Account

After this step, the activation lock will disappear.

Use an Activation Lock Bypass Tool

If contacting the previous owner is not possible, using a tool designed to bypass iPad activation lock may help restore access to the device.

Contact Apple Support

Apple may help remove the activation lock if you provide proof of purchase showing that you legally own the device.

Part 5: FAQs About Bypassing iPad Activation Lock

Do bypass tools require jailbreak?

Some bypass tools require jailbreaking the device to remove the activation lock. Jailbreaking gives the tool access to system settings that Apple normally restricts. Tools like Tenorshare 4uKey usually guide users through this process. However, it depends on the iPad model and iPadOS version.

Do I need the paid version of a bypass tool?

Yes, in most cases you need the paid version to remove the activation lock. Free versions usually only check device compatibility. To fully unlock the iPad, you normally need to upgrade to the full version.

Can Apple help me remove the activation lock?

Yes, Apple can remove the activation lock if you prove ownership of the device. You will need to provide a valid proof of purchase. If the information is verified, Apple Support may help remove the lock.

Conclusion

Getting stuck on the activation screen can be frustrating when you can’t access your device. To bypass an iPad activation lock, you can try signing in with the original Apple ID, contacting the previous owner if it’s a used device, or reaching out to Apple Support with proof of purchase. If these options are not available, a professional tool like Tenorshare 4uKey can make the process easier by guiding you step by step to remove the activation lock and regain access to your iPad.

Implications of Wells Fargo Filing of the WFUSD Trademark

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Wells Fargo has filed a trademark application for “WFUSD” with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The application covers a broad range of digital asset and blockchain-related services.

Including: Software for tokenization of assets, Cryptocurrency payments processing, Execution of trades in digital assets, Cryptocurrency trading and exchange services, Blockchain-based payment infrastructure and transaction verification, Software specifically for processing stablecoin transactions, Related areas like digital wallets, hardware wallets for crypto, and NFT access.

The name “WFUSD” likely standing for “Wells Fargo USD” follows the common naming convention for USD-pegged stablecoins like USDC, USDT, PYUSD, which has fueled speculation that this could be preparatory steps for launching a dollar-backed stablecoin, a tokenized deposit product, or a broader digital asset platform.

This mirrors similar moves by other major banks, such as JPMorgan’s earlier trademark for “JPMD” ahead of its tokenized deposit offerings. Wells Fargo has previously experimented with blockchain tech, including an internal “Wells Fargo Digital Cash” pilot for cross-border settlements, and has discussed joint stablecoin initiatives with other banks in prior reports.

The trademark is currently live and pending review; accepted but awaiting assignment to an examining attorney, with typical processing times over 10 months. Wells Fargo has not publicly confirmed any specific product launch or commented on the filing in the available reports.

This development signals continued institutional interest from traditional banking in crypto infrastructure, stablecoins, and tokenization amid evolving regulations and market adoptions.

Wells Fargo, managing around $1.7–2.1 trillion in assets, joining peers like JPMorgan with JPM Coin and JPMD trademark highlights accelerating interest from major U.S. banks in dollar-pegged digital assets.

This could further normalize stablecoins as a mainstream payment and settlement tool, especially for institutional use cases like cross-border transfers, tokenized deposits, or blockchain-based payments. The filing covers broad services—including stablecoin transaction processing, crypto trading and exchange, asset tokenization, digital wallets, and blockchain verification—positioning the bank for a comprehensive digital asset platform rather than just a single token.

This trend may encourage more banks to enter, potentially increasing stablecoin issuance from regulated entities and boosting overall market legitimacy. The stablecoin sector has grown rapidly, with a market cap around $312 billion up ~50% year-over-year and annual transfer volumes exceeding $11–33 trillion in recent estimates.

A bank-issued WFUSD likely fully reserved and FDIC-insured or similarly regulated could compete directly with dominant players like USDT (Tether) and USDC (Circle), as well as emerging ones like PYUSD (PayPal) or others. Advantages for a bank-issued stablecoin: Stronger regulatory compliance, trust from institutional clients, integration with existing banking rails, and potentially lower perceived risk compared to non-bank issuers.

Threat to incumbents: It could fragment market share or push for higher standards in reserves and transparency. Banks view stablecoins as a risk to their deposit base; one estimate warns they could drain up to $6 trillion from traditional deposits if yield-bearing options proliferate, so this filing is partly defensive—allowing Wells Fargo to capture on-chain dollar flows rather than lose them to DeFi or non-bank issuers.

This aligns with the push toward tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) and blockchain infrastructure. Wells Fargo’s prior experiments (e.g., internal “Wells Fargo Digital Cash” for settlements) and investments in firms like Elliptic and Talos suggest deeper blockchain integration. Faster, cheaper, 24/7 settlements via blockchain could disrupt legacy payment systems.

Risks highlighted by regulators: Some analyses note stablecoins could transmit liquidity stress to banks or erode deposit franchises, as seen in Federal Reserve discussions. If WFUSD evolves into a tokenized deposit or stablecoin, it could set precedents for how banks handle digital dollars under OCC/SEC/Fed oversight, influencing capital treatment and AML rules.

Wells Fargo shares have faced pressure down ~17–19% YTD in some reports, so this could be viewed as a long-term growth signal in digital assets, though no immediate price surge is evident from the filing alone. Wells Fargo has not commented publicly, and this remains exploratory similar to JPMorgan’s path from trademark to product.

The filing underscores a pivotal moment: major banks are no longer just observing crypto—they’re actively preparing infrastructure to participate in (and potentially shape) the future of money. This could accelerate mainstream adoption while intensifying debates over who controls digital dollars.

US SEC and CFTC Sign MOU to Enhance Coordination on Oversight Focused on Crypto

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Signage is seen outside of the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 30, 2020. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance coordination on oversight, with a strong focus on cryptocurrency and digital assets.

The agreement was announced on March 11, 2026, marking a significant step toward resolving long-standing jurisdictional overlaps and “turf wars” between the two agencies.This MOU aims to support lawful innovation, maintain market integrity, and protect investors/customers while fostering U.S. competitiveness in finance through clearer, more harmonized regulation.

Alignment on definitions — Developing a shared taxonomy/classification for crypto assets to reduce confusion over whether something is a security (SEC) or commodity (CFTC). Agencies will share supervisory data securely, confer on overlapping enforcement actions, conduct joint examinations, and hold regular staff meetings.

Joint Harmonization Initiative

A new effort to advance regulatory clarity in shared areas, including joint reviews of product applications from dually registered firms and reducing frictions for exchanges, venues, and intermediaries. Explicit goal of creating a “fit-for-purpose” regulatory framework for crypto assets and emerging technologies, addressing barriers to new product launches and improving overall clarity.

Six priority areas — Including shared crypto-asset taxonomy, coordinated enforcement, joint firm consultation platforms, policymaking alignment, modernizing rules and data sharing. SEC Chair Paul Atkins described it as a “roadmap for a new era of harmonization,” emphasizing that past overlaps had stifled innovation and driven activity overseas.

The MOU is not legally binding but signals strong commitment to collaboration, which market participants view positively for reducing regulatory uncertainty. This development follows years of debate over crypto jurisdiction and could pave the way for clearer rules, easier institutional entry, and a more unified U.S. stance on digital assets.

Industry reactions appear broadly optimistic, seeing it as a step toward ending duplicative burdens and unlocking growth in the sector. This non-binding agreement reaffirms and expands prior coordination including the 2004 MOU on security futures products to address overlapping jurisdictions in an evolving financial landscape, particularly with interconnected markets, digital infrastructure, and crypto assets blurring traditional lines.

The SEC’s mission focuses on investor protection, fair/ordered/efficient securities markets, and capital formation. The CFTC’s emphasizes integrity, resilience, and vibrancy of U.S. derivatives markets via principles-based regulation. Both recognize shared oversight in areas like trading venues, clearinghouses, data repositories, pooled vehicles, intermediaries, and hybrid products.

Markets are rapidly converging through technology, with new model like  onchain and automated systems creating jurisdictional ambiguity and cross-market risks. The MOU aims for closer harmonization to support innovation while protecting market integrity, investors, and customers.

Subject to applicable law, the agencies will strive to: Provide regulatory clarity and certainty through technology-neutral rules, emerging-tech accommodations, transparent processes, and defined boundaries. Share information/data on common issues (e.g., incidents/events/activities), including swaps/security-based swaps data from repositories (with confidentiality).

Coordinate closely to remove barriers to lawful introduction of novel derivatives, crypto products, or other innovations. Enhance overall market functioning. Clarifying product definitions via joint interpretations and rulemakings. Modernizing clearing, margin, and collateral frameworks. Reducing frictions for dually registered exchanges, venues, and intermediaries.

Providing a fit-for-purpose regulatory framework for crypto assets and emerging technologies. Streamlining regulatory reporting for trade data, funds, and intermediaries. Coordinating cross-market examinations, economic analyses, risk monitoring, surveillance, and enforcement. Implementation Mechanisms Secure data sharing. Regular staff meetings and consultations. Joint examinations and coordinated enforcement (e.g., conferring on charges, strategies).

Joint reviews of product applications from dually registered firms. Efforts to align policymaking and reduce duplicative burdens. Reaffirmation of Prior MOU. The parties reaffirm the March 17, 2004, MOU on oversight of security futures product (SFP) trading and information sharing.

The MOU is not legally binding and enforceable but signals strong commitment to collaboration. It does not alter statutory authorities or create rights and obligations for third parties. Amendments require mutual written consent. It takes effect upon signing. Signed by SEC Chairman Paul S. Atkins and CFTC Chairman Michael S. Selig on March 11, 2026.

Overall, the document serves as a high-level roadmap for ongoing inter-agency cooperation, with heavy emphasis on crypto/digital assets to reduce uncertainty, end past “turf wars,” and foster U.S. leadership in financial innovation. Industry views it as a positive, clarity-boosting step without immediate rule changes.

Iran’s War is a Classic Geopolitical Risk Premium Spiking Global Energy Costs 

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Recent trading shows volatility driven by the ongoing US-Iran conflict, which has pushed oil prices back toward or above $100 per barrel, raising fears of economic damage, higher inflation, and disrupted shipping/energy markets.

S&P 500: Closed at 6,672.62, down 103.18 points or about 1.5%. Dow Jones Industrial Average: Closed at 46,677.85, down 739.42 points or about 1.6%. Nasdaq Composite: Closed at 22,311.98, down 404.16 points or about 1.8%. Russell 2000: Down around 2.1%. These were solid but not catastrophic declines, with broad-based selling tied to geopolitical risks.

Earlier in March 2026 there were intraday swings with the Dow down as much as 1,200+ points temporarily amid war worries, but it closed with more modest losses ~0.8-1%. Some social media posts, videos, and commentary have referenced ~$1 trillion losses in recent sessions or cumulatively over days/weeks due to the Iran escalation and related oil spikes.

Markets remain highly sensitive right now to any Middle East developments, oil supply risks, and potential economic fallout could shift this picture. Volatility is elevated, so expect continued swings. The US-Iran conflict, with US and Israeli strikes on Iran followed by Iranian retaliation, has significantly impacted financial markets.

The primary channel is through energy supply disruptions, particularly threats to and partial closures of the Strait of Hormuz, which handles about one-fifth of global oil trade. Oil prices have surged sharply since the conflict began, driven by fears of prolonged supply interruptions, attacks on tankers/ports, and Iranian vows to restrict flows including warnings of prices reaching $200/barrel.

Brent crude (global benchmark) has climbed from pre-conflict levels around $70–75/barrel to over $100/barrel in recent sessions, with peaks near $101–106 in volatile trading. WTI (US benchmark) has followed suit, often trading in the high $90s to low $100s, with daily gains of 6–10% on escalation news (e.g., tanker strikes off Iraq, port closures).

This marks the largest supply disruption in recent history in some estimates, with Gulf output curtailed by millions of barrels per day. Responses include emergency reserve releases but these have only partially offset the rally. Retail gasoline in the US has risen notably, pressuring consumers and raising inflation concerns.

 

Higher energy costs boost profits for oil companies and related sectors but hurt energy-intensive industries like airlines, transportation, and manufacturing. Equity markets have experienced heightened volatility and broad sell-offs, as risk appetite sours amid fears of prolonged war, inflation resurgence, economic slowdown, and potential recession risks if energy shocks persist.

Patterns include: Sharp intraday swings; Dow down 1,200+ points early in sessions before partial recoveries. Multi-day declines, with the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq often down 1–2% on escalation days. Recent sessions around March 10–12, 2026 saw the Dow drop 700–750 points (1.5–1.6%), S&P 500 and Nasdaq down ~1.5–1.8%, amid oil surging toward/above $100.

Risk assets (tech, cyclicals) underperform; safe havens like gold, US dollar, and Treasuries gain. Defense stocks e.g., Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and energy outperform. Markets down several percent since late February, with the S&P 500 erasing gains and volatility (VIX) spiking.

The conflict has complicated expectations for Federal Reserve policy, as higher inflation from energy could delay rate cuts, while growth risks might push for easing—creating uncertainty. A sustained oil shock could add meaningfully to CPI echoing past energy crises. Europe and Asia (heavy energy importers) face steeper hits; US relatively insulated via domestic production but still vulnerable via consumer spending and supply chains.

Some see a limited war ending soon (minimal long-term damage), others warn of prolonged disruption pushing oil to $150+ and derailing recovery. Markets price in uncertainty, with quick rebounds on de-escalation signals. No resolution is evident, keeping volatility elevated and sentiment cautious.

The conflict acts as a classic geopolitical risk premium: spiking energy costs, pressuring equities especially growth-sensitive ones, and favoring defensive/haven assets until clarity emerges. Investors are closely watching any diplomatic/military developments for relief or further escalation.