Gate Crypto Flash News and Market Updates

DeepSeek, a Chinese AI startup, is negotiating its first external funding round, aiming for at least $300 million at a $10 billion valuation. Despite previous rejections of investment offers, its fundraising discussions are now reportedly underway.

Turkey and Iran have not yet begun negotiations to renew their natural gas contract expiring in 2026, as stated by Turkish Energy Minister Bayraktar. Currently, Iran exports 9.6 billion cubic meters annually, but Turkey's actual imports were only 7.6 billion cubic meters last year.

In 2025, over one million online banking accounts were compromised by infostealer malware, with significant increases in attacks on mobile banking. India, Spain, and Brazil had the highest number of affected accounts, as credential theft techniques gained prominence.

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister criticized the U.S. for sending unclear messages regarding negotiations, indicating no specific date for upcoming talks has been set. He emphasized that it's up to Americans to assess the legality of these statements.

Polish lawmakers failed to override President Nawrocki's veto on a cryptocurrency regulation bill aimed at aligning with EU standards. Tensions rise as accusations emerge of Russian influence in a major crypto exchange amid liquidity issues and lack of regulation.

A French soldier was killed in an attack on the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, as announced by President Macron, highlighting the risks faced by France's military in the peacekeeping mission.

Former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss criticized Britain's economic trajectory, citing high taxes and regulations. She advocates for Bitcoin to combat currency debasement and is organizing a conference to promote a movement for sovereignty and freedom.

The U.S. Central Command announced a maritime blockade on vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports, leading to 23 ships complying and turning back since the operation began.

The IDF reported on April 18 that they eliminated several Hezbollah members violating a ceasefire in southern Lebanon, emphasizing self-defense actions are not restricted by the ceasefire. Artillery support was used to target Hezbollah infrastructure.

Gate News bot message, Gate market shows that ETH has fallen below 2350 USDT, with the current price at 2349.73 USDT.

Iran's airline industry has suspended ticket sales until airlines receive necessary permits from the Civil Aviation Organization, which requires approval for each domestic and international flight. Some websites may show ticket availability, but bookings cannot be completed.

Cardano's Charles Hoskinson claims XRP holders lack legal rights to Ripple's assets, emphasizing the company's control over XRP distribution. This has sparked tensions with the XRP community and questions about who benefits in company-tied cryptocurrencies.

On April 18, the UK Maritime Trade Operations reported that two Iranian IRGC patrol boats opened fire on a tanker. Fortunately, the tanker and its crew remained unharmed.

Ayatollah Khamenei's Armed Forces Day message emphasized military readiness, wishing well to personnel and families, and threatening a "new painful defeat" for enemies, coinciding with Iran's annual celebration.

Gate News bot message, Gate market data shows that BTC has broken below 76000 USDT, current price is 75996.9 USDT.

Dmitry Rogozin calls for Russia to expand missile targets to include Western politicians, labeling them "war criminals." He suggests targeting their addresses and Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy, accusing Britain of supplying weapons to Ukraine.

X has launched the Cashtags feature, integrating financial trading into its social feed, generating $1 billion in trading volume shortly after its release. Currently available for iPhone users in the U.S. and Canada, it allows easy access to market data and discussions. X Money, a peer-to-peer wallet, is set for rollout amid regulatory concerns, while a new integration with Wealthsimple enables direct in-app trading.

On April 18, Ukraine's Armed Forces targeted four significant Russian oil facilities, including refineries and a transshipment terminal, aimed at disrupting fuel supplies to Russian forces. The damage assessment is ongoing, with no response from Russia yet.

MicroStrategy plans to switch its preferred stock dividend payouts from monthly to semi-monthly, aiming to enhance investor gains and stabilize stock prices. Shareholders will vote on this by June 8. The stock has seen a trading surge and significant price fluctuations recently, influenced by Bitcoin trends and external geopolitical factors.

Bitcoin ETFs saw $663.9 million in inflows on April 18, indicating renewed institutional confidence and a shift in market sentiment. This trend suggests sustained interest in Bitcoin as investors seek to diversify their portfolios.