Jon Cuthbert

Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) is showing signs of weak institutional demand as the Coinbase Premium Index recorded 44 consecutive days in negative territory.

HighCom (ASX:HCL) has updated its market guidance, now forecasting a second-half earnings loss of between $1.2 million and $1.6 million.

MSUSD, a stablecoin issued by MainStreet Finance, fell as much as 85% below its intended US$1 peg after concerns emerged over the protocol's proof-of-reserves infrastructure and market liquidity.

Cosmos Exploration (ASX:C1X) has signed a technical contract with engineering firm SEPCON to advance its lithium project in Bolivia.

The Securities and Exchange Commission and Commodity Futures Trading Commission have opened a joint consultation on crypto perpetual futures and other derivatives products, a move that could influence how Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) perpetual contracts are regulated in the United States.

The a2 Milk Company (ASX:A2M) has received Chinese regulatory approval to transition two infant formula registrations at its Pokeno facility.

Investors faced a busy week as major developments across aerospace, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, energy and equities shaped trading sentiment.

• The federal government released a consultation paper detailing an alternative mechanism to help eligible early-stage startups retain their 50% capital gains tax discount, delaying final legislation until late 2027.
• Eligible independent firms must hold an annual turnover under $50 million, operate for under a decade, and issue equity after June 30, 2027.
• The broader market faces a July 1 transition substituting the flat 50% discount with cost base indexation and a 30% minimum tax rate.

• Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) rebounded after the United States and Iran announced a framework peace agreement aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
• The rally lifted several major blockchain networks as investors rotated back into risk assets, with Bitcoin recovering above US$66,000 and Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) gaining more than 3%.
• Despite the rebound, ongoing ETF outflows, regulatory uncertainty and geopolitical risks remain key obstacles for the sector.

MDA Space (NYSE:MDA) executed a definitive agreement to acquire US-based Blue Canyon Technologies for US$620 million in cash to scale its defense footprint.