Blockonomi

TLDR

Cerebras Systems landed a contract worth over $10 billion to supply OpenAI with computing power through 2028.

The deal provides 750 megawatts of capacity to run ChatGPT and other OpenAI products with faster response times.

Cerebras previously relied on G42 for 87% of its revenue and now has a second major customer.

The chipmaker withdrew its IPO filing in October but CEO Andrew Feldman says the company will refile soon.

OpenAI evaluated Cerebras chips as far back as 2017 before signing the term sheet in late 2024.

Cerebras Systems has secured a multiyear agreement with OpenAI to deliver computing infrastructure. The contract runs through 2028 and is valued at more than $10 billion.

Exclusive: OpenAI has struck a multibillion-dollar agreement to buy computing capacity from startup Cerebras Systems, which is backed by CEO Sam Altman https://t.co/c7Ej8A9Vgl

— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) January 14, 2026

Under the terms, Cerebras will provide up to 750 megawatts of computing power. OpenAI plans to use this capacity to operate ChatGPT and its other AI services.

The partnership aims to improve speed and reduce delays in AI responses. Sachin Katti from OpenAI’s compute infrastructure team said Cerebras offers a low-latency solution for their platform.

OpenAI currently relies heavily on Nvidia for its computing needs. Nvidia controls most of the AI chip market and reached a $5 trillion market cap in October.

Cerebras manufactures wafer-scale processors designed for AI workloads. These large chips process tasks without combining thousands of smaller units like traditional setups require.

Customer Diversification

The OpenAI contract helps Cerebras reduce its dependence on a single customer. G42, a United Arab Emirates tech firm, generated 87% of Cerebras revenue in early 2024.

CEO Andrew Feldman told CNBC that landing a second major customer was a key milestone. He said the strategy involves keeping the first customer satisfied while winning additional ones.

Cerebras serves other clients including IBM, Cognition, and Hugging Face. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States approved Cerebras selling shares to G42 in March 2025.

IPO Plans and Financials

Cerebras filed paperwork for a public offering in September 2024. The filing showed second quarter revenue near $70 million, up from about $6 million a year earlier.

Net losses increased to almost $51 million from $26 million in the same quarter. The company withdrew its IPO documents in October after raising $1.1 billion at an $8.1 billion valuation.

Feldman said the withdrawal allowed the company to update its financial data. He wrote on LinkedIn that the business had improved and needed fresh information for potential investors.

The CEO declined to provide a timeline for refiling. He said the revised documents would better explain the business and its approach to the changing AI landscape.

Deal Origins

Conversations between OpenAI and Cerebras started in August. The talks followed a demonstration showing OpenAI’s open-source models ran efficiently on Cerebras hardware.

OpenAI first looked at Cerebras technology in 2017. This early evaluation came to light through emails in litigation between Sam Altman and Elon Musk.

Musk tried to acquire Cerebras in 2018. Feldman said the company believed the offer was tied to Tesla at the time.

The companies signed a term sheet right before Thanksgiving. Cerebras will expand its data center footprint to fulfill the OpenAI commitment.

The 750-megawatt capacity matches the output of multiple large data centers. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has discussed plans to invest up to $1.4 trillion in computing infrastructure.

Cerebras operates facilities in the United States and internationally. The company will continue building out locations to support the contract.

The post Cerebras Lands $10 Billion OpenAI Deal in Challenge to Nvidia appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Wikimedia Foundation signs AI deals with Microsoft, Meta, Amazon, and others to monetize content used for AI model training.

Wikimedia’s enterprise product allows tech companies to pay for structured access to Wikipedia’s content for AI purposes.

New AI partners include Perplexity and Mistral AI, adding to previous collaborations with Google and others.

Microsoft emphasizes the importance of valuing Wikipedia contributors and building a sustainable content ecosystem for AI.

Wikipedia’s volunteer network of 250,000 editors continues to maintain and update content used for AI training.

The Wikimedia Foundation has signed new AI content agreements with Microsoft, Meta, Amazon, and others to support its operations, marking a clear shift toward commercial partnerships with major tech companies that rely on Wikipedia data for AI model training. These arrangements aim to address the increasing costs linked to higher server demand driven by large-scale content usage by AI developers. The foundation confirmed that AI firms like Perplexity and Mistral AI have also joined as partners in the past year.

Enterprise Partnerships Focus on AI Training Needs

Wikimedia Foundation, which operates Wikipedia, has secured licensing deals to help companies use its content more efficiently and legally. Its enterprise product now enables tech companies to pay for structured access to Wikipedia content for model training. This move is part of a broader effort to monetize the extensive use of Wikipedia data by AI platforms.

Lane Becker, president of Wikimedia Enterprise, said, “It took us a little while to understand the right set of features and functionality.” He added, “All our Big Tech partners really see the need for them to commit to sustaining Wikipedia’s work.” The foundation already had a deal with Google, announced in 2022, and has now expanded these collaborations further.

Microsoft’s Vice President Tim Frank said, “Access to high‑quality, trustworthy information is at the heart of how we think about the future of AI.” He emphasized the value of building “a sustainable content ecosystem for the AI internet, where contributors are valued.” This approach supports the foundation’s goal of ensuring fair support for its infrastructure and contributors.

Wikipedia Content Powers AI Model Development

Wikipedia hosts over 65 million articles in more than 300 languages, serving as a core resource for AI training. Tech firms use this data to improve the quality, accuracy, and depth of generative AI systems and assistants.

However, this large-scale scraping places increasing pressure on Wikimedia’s server resources. The foundation depends primarily on small public donations to fund its operations. To manage rising costs, it has turned to enterprise licensing to ensure long-term sustainability.

Around 250,000 volunteer editors continue maintaining Wikipedia content by writing, editing, and fact-checking articles. The organization confirmed it will continue expanding partnerships while focusing on transparency and responsible content use.

The post Wikimedia Foundation Expands Partnerships with Tech Firms for AI Training Access appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

EmCoin signed an MoU with Crypto.com to enhance user access to digital assets and trading tools.

The collaboration aims to integrate Crypto.com’s liquidity to offer tighter spreads and better execution.

Both firms will ensure all integrations and features align with the UAE’s financial regulations.

The partners will explore tokenizing real-world assets using technologies like the Cronos EVM chain.

While the roadmap is under development, the companies have not announced a launch date for new features.

Emirates Coin Investment LLC (EmCoin), the UAE’s first SCA-licensed virtual asset platform, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Crypto.com to improve user access to global digital asset markets, enhance trading features, and explore tokenization of real-world assets.

Agreement Targets Better Access and Execution for EmCoin Users

EmCoin and Crypto.com will collaborate on platform integrations to improve trading conditions and user experience for digital asset transactions. The companies plan to enable access to more cryptocurrencies with tighter spreads while maintaining regulatory compliance across all features. By using Crypto.com’s global liquidity and infrastructure, EmCoin intends to support faster trade execution for its users.

Both parties will prioritize technological enhancements that align with the UAE’s financial regulations. The focus is on building compliant tools that ensure safe and seamless transactions for EmCoin users. EmCoin’s COO Yasin Arafat stated, “Our focus is on making digital asset holdings easier to access, manage, and move.” He added that Crypto.com’s support would improve the platform’s liquidity to support large trade volumes and enhance execution.

Crypto.com’s President and COO, Eric Anziani, said, “We’re looking forward to seeing how our industry-leading products and deep liquidity can advance the EmCoin user experience.” Both companies plan to finalize the integration roadmap after completing all necessary regulatory checks. They also confirmed plans to introduce more user-friendly trading services across supported assets.

Partnership Explores Tokenization of Real-World Assets

Crypto.com and EmCoin also aim to explore tokenization options for real-world assets using blockchain technology within regulatory limits. The companies may apply Crypto.com’s infrastructure and strategic partner technologies, including Cronos EVM chain, to develop tokenized products. The initiative will remain compliant with SCA guidelines and regional licensing standards.

Both platforms have agreed to evaluate possible use cases based on investor demand and operational feasibility. This includes digital representations of assets that can be traded securely within the EmCoin ecosystem. Crypto.com’s Alain Yacine said, “Collaborating with innovators like EmCoin is key to advancing digital asset adoption in the region.”

Alain Yacine emphasized that shared expertise would help streamline how users engage with virtual assets in a trusted environment. The MoU reflects ongoing efforts by both firms to support the UAE’s ambitions in the regulated digital finance space. Each phase of the collaboration will be evaluated against compliance benchmarks and operational goals. The firms have not yet disclosed a launch timeline for the tokenization pilot or trading enhancements.

The post EmCoin Signs MoU with Crypto.com to Expand Digital Asset Access for UAE Users appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Trump confirmed he has no current plans to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell despite an active DOJ investigation.

The investigation focuses on $2.5 billion in cost overruns at the Fed’s headquarters renovation project.

Trump stated it’s “too early” to say what action he might take regarding Powell’s future.

Trump accused Powell of stifling economic growth by raising interest rates during market rallies.

Trump mentioned Kevin Warsh and Kevin Hassett as potential replacements, ruling out Scott Bessent.

President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that he has no immediate plans to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, despite an ongoing Justice Department investigation. Speaking to Reuters, Trump said it was “too early” to decide what actions he might take in the future. Powell, who was appointed by Trump, has denied any wrongdoing related to the investigation.

Trump Confirms Jerome Powell Will Stay for Now

Trump told Reuters, “I don’t have any plan to do that,” when asked if he would remove Powell from his post. The Justice Department is investigating cost overruns in a $2.5 billion renovation project at the Fed’s headquarters. Powell disclosed the probe on Sunday and stated he had done nothing wrong.

Trump added, “We’re in a little bit of a holding pattern with him,” and said he would decide what to do later. Despite ongoing political pressure, Powell remains the Fed chair until May, though he can remain on the Board of Governors until 2028. Trump has publicly criticized Powell for not reducing interest rates enough to support market growth.

Trump also mentioned two possible replacements: Kevin Warsh and Kevin Hassett, both with experience in economic policy. He ruled out Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, saying, “He wants to stay where he is.” Trump said an official announcement could come in the next few weeks.

Public Criticism of Powell’s Interest Rate Approach

In recent comments, Blockonomi reported how President Trump called Powell “a real stiff” and blamed him for hindering market rallies by raising interest rates. Trump said, “When the market goes up, the Fed should lower interest rates,” emphasizing his dissatisfaction with current Fed policy. He argued that higher rates contradict positive economic signals.

Trump claimed Powell “kills every rally” and prevents the economy from growing as much as it could. He continued to press for “old-fashioned” economic policies that favor rate cuts during strong growth. Trump stated that such policies “make a country great” and would unlock more economic potential.

Trump’s criticism follows months of tension between the White House and the Federal Reserve. Lawmakers and international observers have expressed concern about political interference. Trump dismissed the criticism, saying, “I don’t care. They should be loyal.”

The post Trump Confirms Jerome Powell Will Stay in Position Amid DOJ Probe appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

OPEN enables blockchain-registered public equity distinct from tokenized DTCC securities for lower costs. 

Figure stock becomes first native blockchain public equity with frictionless exchange to Nasdaq listing. 

Democratized Prime protocol eliminates prime brokers by enabling direct stock lending and borrowing for holders. 

BitGo provides custody while Jump Trading delivers market-making for OPEN’s continuous trading system. 

 

Figure has announced the On-chain Public Equity Network (OPEN) on Provenance Blockchain, enabling companies to list public equity directly on blockchain infrastructure. 

The platform represents a departure from traditional tokenization models by offering blockchain-registered securities rather than tokenized DTCC instruments. 

Figure stock will serve as the inaugural listing, with BitGo and Jump Trading Group providing custodial and market-making support respectively.

Figure’s Blockchain Equity Platform Goes Live

OPEN allows companies to register and trade public equity natively on blockchain technology. The network leverages Figure’s Alternative Trading System (ATS) with a limit order book structure. 

This design enables continuous trading throughout market hours. The platform eliminates dependence on the Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation for securities registration.

Figure’s approach builds on its track record of originating over $20 billion in blockchain-based loans. 

We’re officially announcing OPEN (On-chain Public Equity Network), running on @provenancefdn , which will enable companies to list public equity natively on blockchain, not as tokenized DTCC securities.

OPEN brings issuance, trading, and financing of public equities fully… pic.twitter.com/XRdPE3lG4G

— Figure (@Figure) January 14, 2026

Mike Cagney, Figure’s Executive Chairman, emphasized the platform’s transformative potential in a statement about the launch. “OPEN reinvents equity trading,” Cagney said, noting that benefits over centralized models would incentivize company adoption and investor demand. 

“The significant benefits over the centralized incumbent model incent companies to use OPEN and their investors to demand it,” he explained.

Cagney also referenced the company’s established presence in blockchain-based financial services. “After originating over $20 billion in on-chain credit, we’re now excited to bring public equity to Provenance Blockchain,” he stated. 

The company filed a public registration statement in November 2025 for a secondary equity offering through OPEN. 

Figure intends to maintain frictionless exchange between its OPEN stock and existing Nasdaq equity.

The network introduces Democratized Prime, a decentralized finance protocol for stock-based borrowing and lending. This mechanism removes traditional prime broker intermediaries from the process. 

Shareholders can access liquidity by borrowing against their holdings or generating returns through lending. Portfolio margining across multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrency, becomes possible through this DeFi infrastructure.

Cost Reduction and Market Access Benefits

OPEN reduces costs associated with traditional equity market infrastructure through blockchain registry technology. 

The platform decreases capital requirements mandated by DTCC for market participants. Self-custody and self-settlement capabilities through the ATS eliminate needs for custodial brokers. This structure democratizes trading access while reducing operational expenses for participants.

Mike Belshe, CEO and Co-founder of BitGo, addressed the broader industry movement toward blockchain-based market infrastructure. “We’re seeing growing momentum across the industry toward more transparent, blockchain-native market structures,” Belshe stated. 

He described Figure’s OPEN on-chain offerings as representing the next evolution of digital asset markets. “Figure’s OPEN on-chain offerings represent the next evolution of digital asset markets,” Belshe said.

BitGo expressed commitment to supporting the technical infrastructure required for the platform’s operations. “BitGo is proud to support the infrastructure that enables them to operate securely and at scale,” Belshe added. 

The network replaces conventional stock borrow locate processes with a transparent limit order book. This change redirects stock loan economics directly to shareholders instead of prime brokers.

Portfolio margining through DeFi protocols supports potentially higher advance rates. Cross-collateralization becomes more efficient across different asset classes within the ecosystem. 

Figure has established a dedicated business development team to drive OPEN adoption among potential issuers. The company has secured its first commitment for the next on-chain issuance beyond its own listing. 

Figure anticipates strong interest from digital asset companies and blockchain-native firms. Market makers and service providers have begun technical preparations for network participation.

The post Figure Launches OPEN Network for Native Blockchain Public Equity Trading appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Whale wallets holding 10 to 10,000 BTC accumulated 32,693 coins since January 10, marking a 0.24% increase.

Retail investors holding less than 0.01 BTC dumped 149 coins during the same period, showing a 0.30% decline.

Social media sentiment toward Bitcoin turned increasingly bearish despite price recovery to $97,800 this week.

Santiment’s “very bullish” signal indicates ideal bull run conditions as smart money buys while retail exits.

 

Bitcoin’s recent climb to $97,800 reflects a shift in market dynamics, with large holders increasing positions while smaller investors reduce exposure. 

Data from Santiment shows whale wallets added 32,693 BTC since January 10, representing a 0.24% increase in their collective holdings. 

Meanwhile, retail participants holding less than 0.01 BTC dumped 149 coins during the same period, marking a 0.30% decline in their aggregate positions.

Smart Money Positions Signal Bullish Market Structure

The accumulation pattern among Bitcoin whales reveals a classic setup for potential price appreciation. Santiment’s analysis uses five color-coded categories to track market sentiment based on whale and retail behavior. 

The current “very bullish” classification indicates smart money buying while retail money exits. Wallets holding between 10 and 10,000 BTC have consistently added to positions throughout the week.

This divergence between large and small holders typically precedes sustained rallies in cryptocurrency markets. 

Historical data suggests that when experienced investors accumulate during periods of retail uncertainty, prices often follow an upward trajectory. The pattern observed since mid-January aligns with traditional bull market characteristics.

Santiment noted that the ideal setup for a bull run depends on continued retail doubt. The longer small investors remain skeptical of the current rally, the more room exists for upward movement. Smart money continues to operate counter to prevailing retail sentiment.

Social Media Sentiment Turns Negative Despite Price Recovery

Bitcoin-related commentary across social platforms has grown increasingly bearish even as prices rebounded this week. 

According to Santiment’s social data analysis, fear and doubt reached levels not seen in 10 days. Markets historically move opposite to retail sentiment, suggesting the current negativity could fuel further gains.

According to social data, the commentary toward Bitcoin across social media has interestingly turned more and more bearish as prices have bounced this week. With markets typically moving the opposite direction of retail sentiment, the most FUD seen in 10 days may propel $BTC… pic.twitter.com/BbcFai1Sd5

— Santiment (@santimentfeed) January 15, 2026

The disconnect between price action and social media mood creates conditions for Bitcoin to revisit the $100,000 threshold. 

The cryptocurrency last traded above that level on November 13, 2024. Retail traders expressing pessimism while prices climb indicates a lack of conviction among smaller participants.

Santiment’s research shows that peak fear among retail investors often coincides with buying opportunities. 

The current environment mirrors previous periods when negative sentiment preceded significant rallies. Social media platforms reflect widespread skepticism about the sustainability of recent gains.

The combination of whale accumulation and retail pessimism creates a technical backdrop that supports higher prices. 

Market observers note that this configuration has historically produced favorable outcomes for Bitcoin. Whether the pattern continues depends on retail behavior in the coming weeks.

 

The post Bitcoin Whales Accumulate 32,693 BTC While Retail Investors Dump Holdings Amid Price Rally appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Deribit launches USDC-settled options for AVAX and TRX, enhancing altcoin trading options.

Each AVAX option represents 100 AVAX, and each TRX option represents 10,000 TRX in notional size.

Users in eligible jurisdictions holding USDC can earn monthly USDC rewards for trading these options.

Options offer traders the ability to profit from price movements without holding the underlying asset.

These new options provide liquidity and efficiency by using USDC as the settlement currency.

Deribit has launched USDC-settled options for two major altcoins: Avalanche (AVAX) and Tron (TRX). The new products join the existing USDC-settled perpetual markets for both coins. Users in eligible jurisdictions with USDC in their Deribit accounts are eligible for monthly USDC rewards.

USDC-Settled Options for AVAX and TRX

The new options for AVAX and TRX allow users to trade these altcoins using USDC as the settlement currency. Each option contract for AVAX represents 100 AVAX, while each TRX option contract represents 10,000 TRX. These contracts provide more flexibility for traders and investors interested in these altcoins, particularly for speculation, hedging, and yield generation strategies.

Deribit’s introduction of these options enhances its altcoin product offerings, with both AVAX and TRX options linked to USDC. This makes it easier for users to access and trade without needing to hold the underlying cryptocurrency. The ability to settle in USDC also offers greater liquidity and efficiency.

How Options Work: Calls and Puts

Options are financial instruments that give buyers the right to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price before a specific date. Call options allow users to buy, while put options allow users to sell the underlying asset. The option buyer pays a premium for this right and faces limited risk while having the potential for unlimited profit.

In the case of AVAX and TRX options, call options provide the right to buy these altcoins at a fixed price, while put options give users the right to sell at a set price. These new options offer traders and hedgers the flexibility to profit from price movements without needing to hold the actual underlying asset.

Deribit’s new USDC-settled options market for AVAX and TRX will also offer monthly USDC rewards for users in eligible jurisdictions. This reward system incentivizes traders to engage with these markets. Holding USDC in Deribit accounts allows users to benefit from these rewards as they trade these altcoin options.

The post Deribit Launches USDC-Settled Options for AVAX and TRX appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR:

Quant brings proven technology from Bank of England and European Central Bank pilot programs to Japan.

Dentsu Soken’s StreamR system compatibility with BOJ-NET positions partnership for institutional adoption.

Partnership focuses on automating liquidity management and reducing manual reconciliation for Japanese banks.

Industry executives identify 2026 as pivotal year for stablecoin evolution and digital money implementation. 

 

Quant and Dentsu Soken have formed a strategic partnership to advance Japan’s digital money infrastructure. 

The collaboration will focus on tokenised deposits, institutional stablecoins, and programmable settlement systems for Japanese financial institutions. 

This partnership combines Quant’s proven interbank settlement technology with Dentsu Soken’s extensive experience in Japan’s payment systems. 

The move signals Japan’s shift from pilot projects to production-ready digital money solutions.

Building Programmable Settlement Infrastructure for Japanese Banks

Quant brings established credentials from multiple regulated pilot programs to this partnership. The company has worked with the Bank of England and Bank for International Settlements on Project Rosalind. 

Additionally, Quant participated in trials with the European Central Bank and the UK Regulated Liability Network. 

The Great Britain Tokenised Deposit project also utilized Quant’s programmable settlement and orchestration infrastructure.

Digital money isn't theoretical anymore.

Quant and Dentsu Soken are partnering to build #programmablesettlement & #tokeniseddeposit infrastructure in Japan.

The UK tested it in regulated systems. Now Japan is moving from pilot to production, combining regulatory experience with… pic.twitter.com/38nUGy9aEW

— Quant (@quantnetwork) January 14, 2026

Dentsu Soken contributes deep technical expertise in Japan’s financial ecosystem to the collaboration. The company has developed mission-critical payment and settlement systems for leading Japanese banks. 

Its StreamR settlement management system operates with BOJNET, the Bank of Japan’s Real-Time Gross Settlement system. 

Dentsu Soken has also built global core banking platforms, internet banking systems, and cash management solutions.

The partnership will address four key areas identified through industry and policy discussions. Programmable settlement will coordinate money and asset flows across legacy systems and new tokenised rails. 

Banks will implement tokenised deposit logic including conditional payments and synchronisation with existing ledgers.

Treasury automation will help institutions optimise intraday liquidity and reduce manual reconciliation processes. 

The companies will also deliver interoperability solutions using Quant’s ISO 20022-native architecture tailored for Japanese requirements.

Quant announced the partnership on social media, noting that digital money has moved beyond theory. The company stated Japan is transitioning from pilot to production with regulatory experience and implementation expertise. 

Both firms will execute a joint go-to-market plan combining Dentsu Soken’s implementation teams with Quant’s settlement technology.

Japan’s Financial Sector Prepares for Digital Money Evolution

Japan’s tokenised financial ecosystem has developed rapidly as institutions evaluate digital money frameworks. 

Banks and payment networks are examining how these systems fit within existing settlement and compliance structures. 

The partnership addresses this evolution by merging local implementation capabilities with proven programmable settlement infrastructure.

According to Gilbert Verdian, Founder and CEO of Quant, Japan stands at an important turning point. “Banks are preparing for tokenised deposits, new forms of digital money and more interoperable settlement systems,” Verdian explained. 

He added that partnering with Dentsu Soken enables support for Japan’s transition with technology that is proven and compliant.

Lenna Russ, Chief Commercial Officer at Quant, noted Japan’s emergence as a forward-looking market for tokenised deposits.

“Over recent months we have built strong alignment with Dentsu Soken on how institutions can introduce these capabilities safely,” Russ stated. She expressed excitement about supporting the next phase of this transition together with their partner.

Chie Ito, Executive Officer at Dentsu Soken, expressed appreciation for the collaboration with Quant. “We are honoured to collaborate with Quant; an organisation with a proven track record through projects such as the UK’s GBTD initiative,” Ito remarked. 

She identified 2026 as a pivotal moment for stablecoin evolution and committed to supporting safe implementation of programmable payments.

 

The post Quant and Dentsu Soken Partner to Advance Japan’s Tokenized Deposit Infrastructure appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Billionaire Peter Thiel completely divested from Nvidia and most of Tesla in Q3 2025, shifting capital to Apple and Microsoft

Apple hit record $416 billion revenue in fiscal 2025 and captured 20% global smartphone market share, overtaking Samsung

Microsoft reported $77.7 billion Q1 2026 revenue with 18% growth, driven by AI and cloud services expansion

Analysts set Microsoft price targets at $650-$675, while Apple trades near $260 with a $3.9 trillion market cap

Thiel’s portfolio now contains just three holdings, with Apple and Microsoft representing his largest positions

PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel executed a major portfolio overhaul in Q3 2025. The billionaire sold his complete Nvidia stake and most of his Tesla holdings. He used the proceeds to increase positions in Apple and Microsoft.

Thiel’s Q3 Form 13F filing showed a dramatic shift. His hedge fund exited Nvidia entirely despite the chip maker’s dominance in AI hardware. He also trimmed Tesla substantially, leaving just three total holdings in his portfolio.

The timing proved interesting for performance. Nvidia stayed flat through Q4 2025 after Thiel’s exit. Tesla gained just 1% in the same period.

Apple rose 7% in Q4 2025 following Thiel’s purchase. Microsoft fell 7% during the quarter. The long-term thesis appears focused beyond short-term returns.

Apple’s Market Leadership

Apple now trades around $260 with a $3.9 trillion market capitalization. The stock moved between $169 and $288 over the past 52 weeks.

The iPhone maker delivered record fiscal 2025 results. Revenue reached $416 billion with $112 billion in net income. Both numbers set company highs.

Q4 2025 revenue totaled $102.5 billion, marking 8% year-over-year growth. Services revenue hit an all-time high of $28.8 billion. The services division now contributes more to Apple’s bottom line with stronger margins.

Apple captured 20% of global smartphone shipments in 2025. This marked the first time the company surpassed Samsung in annual worldwide market share.

The iPhone 17 lineup launched in late 2025 alongside AirPods Pro 3 and new Apple Watch models. These products are expected to drive results in coming quarters.

Apple is restructuring its AI leadership. John Giannandrea will retire in spring 2026. Amar Subramanya takes over as VP of AI to oversee foundation models and safety initiatives.

The company trades at a price-to-earnings ratio in the mid-30s. This premium reflects expectations for services growth and AI development.

Microsoft’s AI Push

Microsoft trades near $470 per share. The stock hit a 52-week high of $555 and a low of $345.

Wall Street remains optimistic about Microsoft’s trajectory. Morgan Stanley maintains an Overweight rating with a $650 target. Goldman Sachs initiated Buy coverage at $655. Jefferies set a $675 price target.

Microsoft posted Q1 2026 revenue of $77.7 billion. That represented 18% growth year-over-year. Earnings per share came in at $4.13, beating analyst estimates.

Management guided Q2 revenue to $79.5-$80.6 billion. This implies 14-16% growth. Many analysts consider the guidance conservative and beatable.

The company returned $10.7 billion to shareholders in Q1 through dividends and share repurchases. Microsoft balances capital returns with heavy AI infrastructure investment.

Analysts cite enterprise software spending and AI adoption as key growth drivers. Microsoft’s Copilot and Azure OpenAI Services continue expanding across business customers.

The company reports fiscal Q2 2026 earnings on January 28. Investors will focus on Azure AI metrics, Copilot adoption rates, and infrastructure spending updates.

The post Why Peter Thiel Just Sold All His Nvidia Stock for Apple and Microsoft appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Oracle stock dropped nearly 33% since late September, prompting KeyBanc to call it undervalued

KeyBanc maintains Overweight rating with $300 price target on Oracle shares

Core business (applications and database) valued at roughly $125 per share based on peer multiples

Infrastructure business including Oracle Cloud Infrastructure trades at 3.5x revenue, below neocloud peers

If given similar multiples to neocloud companies, IaaS business could be worth around $135 per share

Oracle stock has taken a beating over the past few months. The company shed nearly one-third of its market value since late September.

But one Wall Street firm sees opportunity in the wreckage. KeyBanc Capital Markets argues the stock is now undervalued and worth buying.

The firm maintained its Overweight rating with a $300 price target. Oracle currently trades at $202.29, which means KeyBanc sees roughly 48% upside from current levels.

KeyBanc analyst Jackson Ader admits the analysis requires some creative accounting. He splits Oracle into two separate businesses to make his case.

The methodology isn’t perfect, and Ader knows it. “There is a little bit of scolding the market and a lot a bit of yelling into the void,” he wrote to clients.

But the numbers tell an interesting story. Ader values Oracle’s core business at around $125 per share.

That core includes the applications and database products Oracle has sold for decades. Using peer earnings multiples, this legacy business alone represents more than half the current stock price.

Breaking Down the Cloud Infrastructure Value

The real value gap appears in Oracle’s infrastructure business. This segment includes Infrastructure as a Service and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure.

At current prices, this business trades at just 3.5 times revenue. That’s a steep discount to so-called neocloud companies like CoreWeave and Nebius.

If the market valued Oracle’s IaaS business like those peers, it would be worth $135 per share. Combined with the $125 core business value, that suggests Oracle should trade well above $250.

The math depends on some assumptions about margins and expenses. KeyBanc estimates Oracle’s core business can hit 41-42% GAAP EBIT margins by 2028.

That’s based on historical performance. Oracle was generating margins in the high 30% range before ramping up cloud infrastructure investments.

Ader assigns most operating expenses to the faster-growing infrastructure business. The same goes for interest expenses, which he allocates primarily to IaaS.

Cloud Growth Drives Investment Case

Oracle has been pouring money into cloud infrastructure to compete with Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. That spending has weighed on near-term profitability.

But the investments are starting to pay off. Revenue grew 11.07% over the last twelve months to $61.02 billion.

The company trades at a P/E ratio of 37.95. Oracle has also raised its dividend for 12 consecutive years.

Goldman Sachs recently upgraded Oracle to Buy with a $240 target. The firm cited potential in AI compute workloads and cloud revenue growth.

UBS lowered its price target to $280 but kept a Buy rating. Jefferies maintained a $400 target and called Oracle a top pick.

Analyst price targets range from $175.14 to $400. The average suggests meaningful upside from current levels.

Michigan regulators approved plans for a new Oracle-OpenAI data center in Saline Township. The multi-billion dollar facility represents another cloud expansion project.

KeyBanc’s valuation exercise might feel like yelling into the void. But the firm sees value hiding in plain sight after the recent sell-off.

The post Oracle (ORCL) Stock: Top Analyst Sees 48% Upside After Recent Sell-Off appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Arista Networks stock rose 5.3% on Tuesday to close at $129.93

Piper Sandler upgraded the stock citing improved visibility in AI and enterprise spending

New partnership with Fortinet focuses on secure AI data center solutions

Company expanding 400G and 800G Ethernet switches for AI infrastructure

Earnings expected around February 17 with focus on AI-driven data center demand

Arista Networks shares climbed 5.3% on Tuesday, closing at $129.93. The stock held steady near that level heading into Wednesday’s session.

The rally came after Piper Sandler upgraded Arista to a more positive rating. The firm pointed to better visibility in enterprise IT spending and demand from hyperscale and AI-focused customers.

The upgrade wasn’t the only catalyst. Fortinet announced a partnership with Arista to develop a Secure AI Data Center solution. The collaboration puts Arista at the center of integrated networking and security for AI infrastructure.

A Zacks Equity Research note released Tuesday focused on Arista’s switch lineup. The report highlighted platforms supporting 400G and 800G Ethernet speeds. These faster connections are becoming standard in modern data centers.

The note mentioned Arista’s ruggedized switches and R4 series. These products target high-speed “leaf-and-spine” architectures used in large-scale data centers. This is the backbone of AI training and cloud computing operations.

The stock surge pushed Arista’s market cap to roughly $183 billion. Its price-to-earnings ratio now sits above 54.

Competitors showed more modest moves. Cisco gained about 2% while Hewlett Packard Enterprise edged up 1%. Arista’s daily swings tend to be larger than the rest of the networking sector.

Customer Concentration Remains a Risk

The company serves as a barometer for AI infrastructure investment. It provides networking equipment for large AI setups, data centers, campus networks, and routing operations.

But a few hyperscale and AI customers drive a big chunk of revenue. If these clients delay upgrades or stretch out orders, the stock could reverse quickly.

Pricing pressure is another concern. Larger competitors continue rolling out new data center gear. Open networking and white box alternatives are also gaining traction.

Investors want to see how fast customers adopt faster network links. They also want to know if Arista can maintain margins while selling more high-end equipment.

What’s Next for Arista

The company’s performance depends on data center build cycles. These typically happen in waves rather than steady progression.

A company webinar on its campus mobility initiative is scheduled for January 22. This could provide updates on product rollouts and customer adoption.

Earnings are expected around February 17 according to Nasdaq’s calendar. Trading volume on Tuesday hit 8.6 million shares, above the 50-day average of 7.7 million.

Analysts project revenue could reach between $13.6 billion and $15.4 billion by 2028. That requires roughly 19.5% yearly revenue growth. Some analysts see a fair value around $163.37, suggesting 26% upside from current levels.

The stock remains 21.23% below its 52-week high of $164.94 reached on October 30.

The post Arista Networks (ANET) Stock: 5% Jump Fueled by AI Switch Demand and Analyst Upgrade appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

IT budgets expected to grow 5.3% in 2026, up from 4.6% in 2025, according to KeyBanc survey of resellers

30% of respondents expect public cloud spending to grow faster, up 17 percentage points from Q3

Morgan Stanley survey shows 92% of CIOs plan to use Microsoft’s generative AI products in the next year

Azure maintains leadership with 53% of application workloads, while 80% of CIOs plan to use Microsoft 365 Copilot

KeyBanc maintains $630 price target while Morgan Stanley names Microsoft a Top Pick despite 8% stock decline

Microsoft stock has dropped 8% over the past three months. But two new surveys suggest the company is positioned to benefit from rising IT budgets and accelerating AI adoption in 2026.

KeyBanc surveyed resellers who buy IT products and bundle them with services. The results show customer budgets are set to grow 5.3% this year. That’s faster than the 4.6% growth seen in 2025.

The survey found growing demand for public cloud services. 30% of respondents expect customer spending on public cloud to grow faster. That’s up 17 percentage points from the third quarter.

KeyBanc analyst Eric Heath says this trend benefits Azure beyond just graphics processing units. Multiple Copilot products are also gaining traction. More respondents reported Copilot piloting and production already underway.

KeyBanc maintains an Overweight rating with a $630 price target on the stock.

Morgan Stanley’s fourth quarter CIO survey backs up the positive outlook. Software budgets are expected to grow 3.8% in 2026, up slightly from 3.7% in 2025.

Microsoft Leads Cloud Market Share

The Morgan Stanley survey shows Microsoft is the top share gainer of IT spending. This applies to both a one-year and three-year outlook.

Azure currently hosts 53% of application workloads among surveyed CIOs. This leadership position is expected to continue over the next three years.

Azure AI ranks as a key priority for technology executives. 37% of CIOs expect to use Azure OpenAI Services in the next 12 months. 42% plan to use GitHub Copilot.

AI Adoption Continues to Climb

Microsoft 365 Copilot adoption is rising steadily. 80% of CIOs plan to use it in the next year. Morgan Stanley notes this marks the fifth consecutive quarterly increase.

CIOs expect Copilot penetration to reach 61% of employees over three years.

The Morgan Stanley survey found 92% of CIOs expect to use Microsoft’s generative AI products in the next year. That’s down slightly from 95% a year ago but remains near total market coverage.

Morgan Stanley analyst Keith Weiss says Microsoft “remains in pole position to garner increasing IT Wallet share as GenAI adoption ramps and cloud migrations pick up.” The bank maintains an Overweight rating and names Microsoft a Top Pick.

Market skepticism has weighed on Microsoft and software stocks recently. Companies with ties to ChatGPT developer OpenAI have faced particular pressure.

Goldman Sachs recently raised its price target on Microsoft to $655. The firm argued that investments in AI startup Anthropic and in-house AI models have diversified Microsoft’s exposure beyond OpenAI.

Questions about AI adoption speed persist. Microsoft shares fell last month after The Information reported the company was easing sales quotas for enterprise AI products like Microsoft 365 Copilot. Microsoft told Barron’s that aggregate sales quotas for AI products had not been lowered.

KeyBanc’s survey shows a steady increase in customers in the “experimenting/piloting” phase with AI. Respondents citing GenAI rollouts in production remain in the low-to-mid-single-digit range.

Shares of Microsoft traded down 0.7% at $467.50 in premarket trading Tuesday.

The post Microsoft (MSFT) Stock: The Cloud and AI Numbers That Have Analysts Bullish appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Wells Fargo missed Q4 profit estimates with earnings of $1.62 per share versus expected $1.67 per share

Net interest income of $12.33 billion fell short of the $12.46 billion analyst forecast

The bank recorded $612 million in severance expenses as part of ongoing job cuts

Wells Fargo’s 2026 interest income forecast of $50 billion came in below analyst expectations of $50.33 billion

Shares dropped 1.7% in premarket trading after surging 32.7% in 2025

Wells Fargo reported mixed fourth-quarter results that fell short of Wall Street expectations, sending shares lower in premarket trading.

$WFC (Wells Fargo) #earnings are out: pic.twitter.com/Ct45yKOEzL

— The Earnings Correspondent (@earnings_guy) January 14, 2026

The bank posted earnings of $1.62 per share for the quarter ending December 31. Analysts had expected $1.67 per share. Revenue reached $21.29 billion, missing the consensus estimate of $21.64 billion.

Net interest income rose 4% year-over-year to $12.33 billion. However, this figure came in below the $12.46 billion analysts projected. The metric measures the difference between what banks earn on loans and pay out on deposits.

The bank took a $612 million hit from severance expenses during the quarter. These costs stem from continued workforce reductions under CEO Charlie Scharf’s efficiency push.

Without the severance charges, adjusted earnings per share hit $1.76, beating the $1.66 estimate. Adjusted net income totaled $5.8 billion for the quarter.

Revenue Growth Meets Expense Pressures

Total revenue increased 4% from $20.38 billion in the same quarter last year. Noninterest income grew 5% to $8.96 billion.

Average loans climbed 5% year-over-year to $955.8 billion. Average deposits increased 2% to $1.38 trillion.

Credit quality showed improvement. Net charge-offs declined 13% year-over-year to $1.03 billion.

The bank maintained a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 10.6%. This was down from 11.1% a year earlier.

Wells Fargo repurchased 58.2 million shares for $5.0 billion during the quarter.

Headcount Reduction Continues

The bank’s workforce shrank to 205,198 employees at year-end 2025. This compares to 210,821 as of September 30.

Headcount has fallen every quarter since late 2020. Scharf said last month the bank will continue trimming staff to boost efficiency. He pointed to artificial intelligence as a tool for productivity gains.

Wells Fargo forecast interest income of about $50 billion for 2026. Analysts had expected $50.33 billion on average.

The stock had surged 32.7% in 2025 but fell 1.7% in premarket trading Wednesday. The bank wrapped up a strong year that saw regulators remove a $1.95 trillion asset cap in June. The penalty stemmed from a fake-accounts scandal. The removal allowed total assets to surpass $2 trillion for the first time.

Wells Fargo closed seven consent orders last year. One consent order from 2018 remains in place.

The post Wells Fargo (WFC) Stock: Earnings Miss Sends Shares Down After Strong 2025 appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Bank of America reported Q4 2025 profit of $7.6 billion, up 12% year-over-year, beating analyst expectations at $0.98 per share

Consumer spending on debit and credit cards increased 6%, while credit card delinquencies over 90 days dropped to 1.27% from 1.35%

Total revenue reached $28.37 billion, exceeding Wall Street estimates by 2.8%, with net interest income up 10% to $15.8 billion

Sales and trading revenue climbed 10% to $4.52 billion, while investment banking fees rose to $1.67 billion

Full-year 2025 profit hit $30.51 billion, representing a 13% increase from the previous year

Bank of America posted fourth quarter earnings that topped Wall Street predictions. The Charlotte-based bank earned $7.6 billion during the final three months of 2025.

$BAC (Bank of America) #earnings are out: pic.twitter.com/dphFxbaiu7

— The Earnings Correspondent (@earnings_guy) January 14, 2026

That works out to $0.98 per share. Analysts had expected $0.96 per share.

The results paint a picture of healthy consumer behavior. Spending on debit and credit cards jumped 6% compared to the same period last year.

Chief Financial Officer Alastair Borthwick told reporters the consumer remains resilient. He pointed to multiple metrics showing strength in consumer finances.

Credit card delinquencies tell a similar story. The rate of credit cards overdue by more than 90 days fell to 1.27%. Last year at this time, that figure stood at 1.35%.

Total revenue for the quarter reached $28.37 billion. That beat analyst forecasts by a comfortable margin.

Net interest income grew 10% to $15.8 billion. This metric measures the difference between what banks earn on loans and what they pay depositors.

The net interest margin came in at 2.1%. Analysts had predicted 2%.

Trading and Investment Banking Show Growth

The bank’s markets division performed well. Sales and trading revenue hit $4.52 billion, up 10% from last year.

Investment banking fees also climbed. The bank collected $1.67 billion in fees during the quarter.

Provisions for credit losses dropped to $1.3 billion. This represents money set aside to cover potential loan defaults.

The bank’s efficiency ratio came in at 61.5%. Analysts expected 62.7%. A lower ratio indicates better cost management.

Full Year Performance

For all of 2025, Bank of America earned $30.51 billion. That’s a 13% jump from 2024.

Tangible book value per share reached $28.73. This grew 7.5% year-over-year and matched analyst estimates.

The bank serves approximately 67 million consumer and small business clients. Revenue over the past five years grew at a 5.7% compounded annual rate.

President Trump recently proposed capping credit card interest rates at 10% for one year. Industry groups have expressed concerns about reduced credit availability.

Borthwick declined specific comment on the proposal. He said the bank supports the administration’s efforts on affordability.

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon reported similar consumer trends on Tuesday. He noted continued spending but flagged geopolitical risks.

The post Bank of America (BAC) Stock: Consumer Spending Drives Earnings Beat appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

JPMorgan shares fell 4.2% Tuesday despite earnings of $5.23 per share beating forecasts by 5%

Year-over-year profits dropped 7% as investment banking fees disappointed Wall Street

Apple credit card partnership reduced earnings by 60 cents per share, requiring $2.2 billion in reserves

Revenue of $46.77 billion exceeded analyst expectations of $46.25 billion

Stock recovered slightly in premarket Wednesday, gaining 0.39% to $312.22

JPMorgan Chase shares tumbled Tuesday despite delivering quarterly results that topped analyst expectations. The stock closed down 4.2% at $310, puzzling investors who expected a rally after the earnings beat.

The bank reported adjusted earnings per share of $5.23. That crushed Wall Street’s consensus estimate of $4.86 by roughly 5%. Revenue also exceeded forecasts at $46.77 billion compared to the expected $46.25 billion.

Yet the market sold off aggressively. By Wednesday morning, shares had only recovered to $312.22, up a modest 0.39% in premarket trading.

The disconnect stems from several red flags in the report. Profits declined 7% compared to the same quarter last year. Investment banking fees came in below expectations due to timing issues that rattled analysts.

Apple Deal Weighs on Results

JPMorgan’s newly announced credit card partnership with Apple proved costly. The deal sliced 60 cents off per-share earnings this quarter.

The bank had to establish a $2.2 billion credit reserve to purchase Apple’s existing card portfolio. That’s a hefty upfront cost that directly impacted the bottom line.

Evercore ISI kept its Outperform rating and $350 price target despite the selloff. Analysts labeled the market response as classic “sell the news” behavior for a high-quality stock trading at premium valuations.

The firm pointed to several potential concerns driving the negative reaction. Investment banking fee timing created uncertainty. Management’s commentary on loan and deposit growth lacked enthusiasm. Expense trends remain elevated going forward.

Banking Outlook Stays Positive

Management didn’t sound alarms about the business trajectory. They reaffirmed net interest income guidance that aligns with current Wall Street models.

The investment banking outlook remained constructive heading into 2026. Executives highlighted strong client engagement and described the deal pipeline as healthy.

Evercore ISI emphasized that JPMorgan’s fundamental story hasn’t changed. The firm expects the bank to maintain its reputation as a best-in-class operator in the industry.

CEO Jamie Dimon also made headlines Tuesday with comments about Federal Reserve independence. He criticized the Justice Department’s subpoena of Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

Dimon warned the move could undermine confidence in monetary policy independence and potentially drive interest rates higher. “I don’t agree with everything the Fed has done,” he stated. But he stressed his “enormous respect for Jay Powell, the man.”

Bank of America, Citigroup, and Wells Fargo report quarterly results Wednesday. The sector will watch closely to determine whether JPMorgan’s results signal broader trends or represent an isolated quarter.

The bank characterized this as an unusual quarter. Investors hope it won’t serve as a preview of what other major banks will report.

Premarket buying suggests some traders viewed Tuesday’s drop as an overreaction. The coming days will reveal whether that optimism is justified based on peer results.

The post JPMorgan Chase (JPM) Stock: Wall Street Dumps Shares Despite Earnings Win appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Huawei regained the No. 1 spot in China’s smartphone market with 46.7M units shipped, surpassing Apple.

Despite a 1.9% drop in shipments, Huawei’s in-house chip development helped it secure market leadership.

Apple grew by 4% in 2025, shipping 46.2M units, but couldn’t beat Huawei’s annual lead.

Other Chinese brands like Vivo and Xiaomi faced growth challenges, largely due to rising production costs.

Total smartphone shipments in China fell by 0.6%, with the memory chip shortage impacting market performance in 2025.

Huawei Technologies regained the No. 1 position in China’s smartphone market in 2025, surpassing Apple. According to SCMP, the company shipped 46.7 million units, capturing a 16.4% market share. This narrowly edged out Apple, which shipped 46.2 million iPhones for a 16.2% market share.

Huawei Overtakes Apple Despite US Sanctions

Huawei’s market share increased despite the impact of US sanctions. The company experienced a 1.9% decline in smartphone shipments from the previous year. However, Apple saw a 4% growth in the same period.

Huawei’s recovery is attributed to the development of in-house processors. The company used its latest Kirin 9030 chip in its premium flagship, the Mate 80 Pro Max. Will Wong, senior research manager at IDC, stated, “The improvement in Huawei’s in-house chip production was key to its momentum.”

This marks Huawei’s first full-year lead in China’s smartphone market since 2020. During this period, US sanctions severely impacted Huawei’s access to advanced chips.

Competitive Smartphone Space Shifts in China

Other Chinese smartphone brands faced challenges in maintaining growth due to rising production costs. Domestic brands like Vivo and Xiaomi struggled to keep up with Huawei’s resurgence. Vivo shipped 46.1 million units in 2025, maintaining the third spot in the market.

The total smartphone shipments in China decreased by 0.6%, with 284.6 million units sold. IDC predicts the market will decline further in 2026 due to a global memory chip shortage. Wong also highlighted, “Rising memory costs remain a critical challenge for smartphone manufacturers. The price hikes in memory components affected the production of budget models.

As a result, Xiaomi and Honor raised prices, while Meizu canceled the launch of a new handset. High-end brands like Huawei and Apple are likely to benefit in 2026, as premium margins help offset rising production costs. In the December quarter, Apple gained 21.5%, leading the market with the iPhone 17 release. Despite Huawei’s lead for the year, Apple remained a strong competitor in China’s smartphone market.

The post Huawei Reclaims Top Spot in China’s Smartphone Market, Edging Out Apple appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Xpeng sets 2026 sales goal of 550,000-600,000 vehicles, marking 28-40% growth from 2025

New regional supply chain teams launching in Europe and Southeast Asia

Overseas deliveries surged 96% in 2025 to 45,008 units across 60 markets

Manufacturing hubs opening in Malaysia and Austria to support local production

Company pivoting toward robotaxis and humanoid robots alongside traditional EVs

Xpeng is preparing for its biggest year yet with a sales target between 550,000 and 600,000 vehicles in 2026. The goal represents growth of 28-40% compared to 2025’s delivery of 429,445 units.

Chinese tech portal 36Kr reported the target from an internal strategy meeting. A company source later confirmed the information.

The aggressive target builds on strong momentum. Xpeng’s 2025 sales jumped 126% from the previous year.

Regional Expansion Plans

Xpeng will create dedicated supply chain teams in Europe and Southeast Asia this year. These teams will manage local sourcing and supplier partnerships as production ramps up.

The company is opening manufacturing facilities in two key locations. Malaysia will serve ASEAN markets while Austria handles European production.

Local sourcing cuts transportation costs and speeds up delivery times. Xpeng tested this approach with its Middle East parts hub before expanding the model.

Faster parts availability means quicker service for customers. Regional supply chains also reduce exposure to shipping disruptions.

International sales are driving growth. Xpeng shipped 45,008 vehicles overseas in 2025, nearly double the previous year’s total.

The EV maker now operates in approximately 60 countries. CEO He Xiaopeng expects global markets to produce half of company revenue within ten years.

Technology Integration

Xpeng is deploying AI tools throughout its supply chain operations. Pilot programs focus on management systems and quality control processes.

The company provides low-cost AI inspection equipment to manufacturing partners. These tools help maintain consistent quality across different production sites.

Volkswagen supports Xpeng through a strategic investment. The partnership gives Xpeng access to additional resources for international expansion.

Xpeng is diversifying beyond passenger vehicles. Street testing of robotaxis begins this year with volume production planned for 2026.

Humanoid robot manufacturing also starts in 2026. The company calls this evolution a move toward “physical AI” instead of pure automotive focus.

About 80% of existing automotive suppliers will participate in these new ventures. Xpeng’s supply chain is expanding into robotics and flying car development.

Regional teams can make procurement decisions faster than centralized operations. Local expertise helps navigate different regulatory environments and market conditions.

The 2026 sales target would cement Xpeng’s status among China’s leading EV manufacturers. Localized production and supply chains form the foundation of the expansion strategy.

Xpeng’s global footprint continues expanding with the addition of new markets and production capabilities across multiple continents.

The post Xpeng (XPEV) Stock: Overseas Deliveries Increase 96% Year-Over-Year appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Bitpanda is planning an IPO in 2026 with a target valuation between €4 billion and €5 billion.

The company has chosen to list its shares on Frankfurt’s stock exchange.

Bitpanda has hired Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, and Deutsche Bank to assist with the IPO.

The IPO could take place as early as the first quarter of 2026.

Bitpanda currently has over seven million users and dominates Austria’s crypto market.

Bitpanda, one of Europe’s largest crypto exchanges, is reportedly planning an initial public offering (IPO) in 2026. The Vienna-based platform is said to be targeting a valuation between €4 billion ($4.7 billion) and €5 billion ($5.83 billion). The IPO could take place on Frankfurt’s stock exchange, with the first quarter of 2026 being the likely window.

Bitpanda Plans Frankfurt Listing for IPO

Bitpanda has become a major player in Europe’s crypto market since its founding in 2014. It claims to have over seven million users, positioning itself as one of the most popular retail crypto platforms in Europe. While the exchange has not disclosed specific trading volumes, consultancy firm EY estimates that Bitpanda accounts for nearly 60% of Austria’s domestic crypto trading market.

The company has reportedly enlisted major financial institutions, including Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, and Deutsche Bank, to assist with the IPO. The listing is expected to take place on Frankfurt’s stock exchange, following Bitpanda’s decision to forgo a potential London listing. In August 2025, CEO Eric Demuth stated that London offered less liquidity compared to other major markets, like New York and Frankfurt.

Crypto Exchanges Eye Public Markets in 2026

Bitpanda is not alone in its IPO plans, as several crypto exchanges and firms are preparing to go public. Crypto exchange Kraken filed confidentially for an IPO in November 2025, aiming for a $20 billion valuation. Other companies such as FalconX, Grayscale, and Blockchain.com have also discussed IPO plans, signaling increasing interest in the public markets among crypto firms.

In the U.S., major players like USDC issuer Circle and trading firm eToro made their market debuts in 2025. This uptick in crypto IPO activity has created a wave of excitement in the industry, with investors keeping a close eye on the performance of these listings. Bitpanda’s IPO could follow this trend, as the company aims to tap into a growing interest in the crypto sector’s public market presence.

Bitpanda faces growing competition from other exchanges, including Kraken and Binance, which have also expanded their services internationally. However, the company’s IPO plans reflect its ambitions to capitalize on the increasing demand for crypto trading and investment opportunities in Europe. By listing in Frankfurt, Bitpanda may also benefit from Germany’s strong financial reputation and market liquidity.

The post Bitpanda Plans $5B IPO in 2026, Targets Frankfurt for Listing appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

Roblox stock surged 10.5% Tuesday, closing at $84.80 as new game drives platform engagement

“Escape Tsunami For Brainrots” hit top five platform games with 40M+ visits in three days

BMO Capital and Morgan Stanley analysts maintain Buy ratings with $155 price targets

Wall Street consensus shows $133.11 average target, implying 60% upside from current levels

Upcoming earnings forecast shows $2.07B revenue, up 52.1% year-over-year

Roblox stock posted a 10.5% gain during Tuesday’s session, driven by the rapid success of a new platform game. Shares traded between $76.05 and $85.43 before closing near $84.80.

The move came on higher-than-normal volume. Trading activity exceeded typical session levels as news of the viral game spread.

“Escape Tsunami For Brainrots” has become a breakout hit since its December 15 launch. The game now ranks among the platform’s top five experiences according to RoMonitor data.

Between Saturday and Monday alone, the title drew over 40 million visits. On Sunday, it attracted approximately 43 million visits by itself.

The rapid rise comes at a crucial time for the platform. Earlier viral hits including “Grow a Garden” and “Steal a Brainrot” have started losing steam.

Analysts Back Continued Growth

BMO Capital’s Brian Pitz maintained his Buy rating with a $155 price target. Pitz highlighted the new game as evidence that Roblox can continue generating viral hits.

The analyst noted investors are looking for proof that fresh breakout titles can fuel bookings growth through 2026. Early performance metrics suggest this game fits that profile.

Morgan Stanley’s Matthew Cost also kept his Buy rating intact. Cost reduced his price target to $155 from $170, but the revised figure still implies more than 80% upside.

Cost expects 2026 to resemble 2025 for internet stocks. Companies demonstrating returns on invested capital from AI and GPU technologies should attract investor attention.

Earnings and Wall Street Targets

The Street consensus leans bullish on Roblox. Out of 22 recent analyst ratings, 13 recommend Buy, eight rate it Hold, and one suggests Sell.

The average Wall Street price target stands at $133.11. This represents roughly 60% potential upside from Tuesday’s closing price.

Roblox will report quarterly results soon. Analysts expect a loss of $0.50 per share, representing a 51.5% year-over-year decline.

Revenue forecasts sit at $2.07 billion for the quarter. That would mark 52.1% growth compared to the same period last year.

The consensus earnings estimate hasn’t changed over the past month. The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3, indicating a Hold recommendation.

Tuesday’s rally reversed a 11.8% decline over the prior four weeks. The stock had been under pressure before the viral game news emerged.

The game’s concurrent user count has been climbing steadily. It reached the top five games by this metric within weeks of launching.

Platform engagement appears to be accelerating based on the latest data. The 40 million visits over a three-day period demonstrates strong user interest.

The stock’s price target from BMO and Morgan Stanley both settled at $155. Both analysts see continued upside despite recent market volatility.

The post Roblox (RBLX) Stock Rises 10% on New Viral Game Success appeared first on Blockonomi.

TLDR

TD Cowen lifts Amazon price target to $315 from $300 based on advertising business strength

Survey shows 60% of Amazon advertisers planning budget increases for 2026

Advertising revenue forecast to jump from $68.2B in 2025 to $141.7B by 2030

Prime Video ads and AI-powered tools driving advertiser engagement

Wall Street maintains Strong Buy rating with 46 Buy recommendations

Amazon’s advertising business just caught Wall Street’s attention in a big way. TD Cowen raised its price target on the stock to $315, up from $300, after completing its 14th annual advertising buyer survey.

The survey results paint a clear picture of where advertisers want to spend their money. More than 60% of current Amazon advertisers said they expect to boost their budgets in 2026. That kind of commitment signals real confidence in the platform’s effectiveness.

Amazon shares currently trade at $247.12. The new $315 price target suggests roughly 27% upside from here. The stock recently touched its 52-week high of $258.60.

TD Cowen analyst John Blackledge sees multiple growth drivers at work. Amazon’s Demand-Side Platform continues grabbing market share from competing advertising surfaces. Advertisers appreciate using Amazon’s data to reach shoppers both on Amazon properties and across the broader web.

Video Advertising Expands Reach

Prime Video advertising opens up a massive new audience for brands. By integrating ads into Prime Video, Amazon gives advertisers access to millions of viewers while keeping everything within its own ecosystem. This strategy keeps brands engaged with Amazon’s full suite of advertising tools.

The survey highlighted another interesting trend. Generative AI creative tools are helping advertisers build better campaigns faster. These AI-powered features improve campaign performance and drive better returns on ad spending. When advertisers see better results, they tend to increase their budgets.

Revenue Growth Path Looks Strong

TD Cowen projects Amazon’s advertising revenue will grow from about $68.2 billion in 2025 to $141.7 billion by 2030. That’s a 16% compound annual growth rate over five years.

The firm also expects Amazon to capture a bigger slice of the global digital advertising market outside China. Amazon’s share should climb from 10.6% in 2025 to 13.2% by 2030.

Amazon’s $2.63 trillion market cap reflects its position as one of the world’s most valuable companies. The stock trades at a PEG ratio of 0.67, which some analysts view as attractive given the company’s growth prospects.

TD Cowen positioned itself ahead of consensus estimates. The firm stands 1% above consensus for fourth-quarter revenue and 12% above consensus for operating income.

Wall Street analysts overwhelmingly favor the stock. Amazon carries a Strong Buy consensus rating based on 46 Buy ratings and just one Hold rating assigned over the past three months. The average analyst price target sits at $295.05 per share, implying about 22% upside.

The advertising business benefits from three main growth engines. The expanding DSP product brings in more advertisers looking to reach customers across multiple channels. Prime Video advertising taps into streaming audiences. AI-powered optimization makes the core e-commerce advertising product more effective for brands.

Analyst price targets for Amazon range from $245 to $360, showing a wide spread of opinions on the stock’s potential. TD Cowen’s $315 target falls in the upper portion of that range.

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