AFX has started operating its dedicated Layer 1 mainnet for decentralized perpetual trading. The launch occurred on May 18, 2026, and introduces specialized infrastructure for high-speed on-chain derivatives.
AFX, a blockchain network built specifically for decentralized derivatives, activated its Layer 1 mainnet on May 18. The system supports perpetual contracts on assets including BTC, ETH, Gold, and Crude Oil, with leverage up to 40 times and zero gas fees for users.
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Peer-to-peer trading startup Variational has secured $50 million in a Series A funding round to expand its onchain derivatives platform focused on real-world assets.
In January 2026, the New York Stock Exchange and its parent company Intercontinental Exchange announced plans to develop a tokenized securities platform, marking a shift in traditional finance. This move highlights tokenization's transition from experimental crypto applications to core Wall Street operations. However, experts emphasize that building compliant and liquid on-chain markets remains the key challenge.
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Intercontinental Exchange and OKX announced Friday they will launch perpetual futures contracts tied to Brent and WTI oil benchmarks. The products will be available to OKX users in licensed jurisdictions.
Blockchain analytics firm Elliptic reported a 700% spike in cryptocurrency outflows from Iran's largest exchange, Nobitex, minutes after U.S.-Israeli airstrikes hit Tehran over the weekend. The strikes killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and targeted key sites, prompting possible capital flight via digital assets. This event highlights cryptocurrencies' role in bypassing sanctions and banking restrictions in Iran.
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A federal case is unfolding over $71 million in frozen cryptocurrency following the Kelp DAO exploit, as Aave seeks to release the funds for DeFi recovery. Victims of decades-old North Korean terrorist acts have filed a restraining notice against Arbitrum DAO, claiming the 30,765 ETH as DPRK-linked property. The dispute pits recent hack victims against long-standing terrorism judgment holders.
Germany-based AllUnity has launched its MiCA-compliant euro stablecoin EURAU on the Solana blockchain. The expansion targets faster and cheaper euro transfers for businesses and developers. This move coincides with rapid growth in the euro stablecoin market.
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CFTC Chairman Mike Selig announced imminent policies for crypto perpetual futures in the U.S., building on Project Crypto launched in January with the SEC. Speaking at the Milken Institute event on March 3 alongside SEC Chairman Paul Atkins, Selig aims to repatriate offshore liquidity amid broader digital asset initiatives.