Crypto Markets Slide to Multi-Week Lows Amid Geopolitical Tensions and Regulatory Shifts
Global cryptocurrency markets have fallen to multi-week lows, weighed down by rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and shifting macroeconomic conditions that have dampened investor sentiment.
According to Simon Peters, Crypto Analyst at eToro, surging oil prices have prompted traders to reassess expectations around interest rate cuts in 2026. He noted that benchmark 10-year US Treasury yields have climbed to levels last seen in July 2025, exerting additional pressure on risk-sensitive assets such as cryptocurrencies.
Market participants are now closely monitoring upcoming US non-farm payroll and unemployment data, which could further influence volatility. Peters explained that a strong labour market may reinforce a hawkish stance from the Federal Reserve, while weaker data could heighten stagflation concerns—both scenarios potentially triggering continued outflows from risk assets.
Chiliz Defies Market Trend with Strong Gains
Amid the broader downturn, Chiliz (CHZ) stood out as one of the week’s top performers, surging 27%. The rally has been linked to renewed investor interest in fan tokens ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Chiliz, the blockchain platform powering fan engagement app Socios.com, has also introduced a deflationary mechanism. Under this model, 10% of fan token sales revenue is used to buy back and burn CHZ tokens, potentially supporting long-term price growth as the ecosystem expands.
CLARITY Act Gains Momentum in the US
On the regulatory front, the proposed CLARITY Act has made significant progress, with US policymakers reaching an agreement in principle on stablecoin yield provisions.
The latest draft prohibits passive yield on stablecoin holdings, reducing direct competition with traditional bank deposits, while still permitting rewards tied to specific activities such as payments and trading.
Tim Scott, Chair of the Senate Banking Committee, confirmed bipartisan backing for the bill. The committee is targeting a markup in the second half of April, after which the legislation will move toward reconciliation and a full Senate vote. With US midterm elections approaching, pressure is mounting to fast-track the process.
Franklin Templeton Expands into Tokenised ETFs
Institutional adoption of blockchain technology continues to gain traction, as Franklin Templeton announced a partnership with Ondo Finance to launch tokenised versions of exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
The initial rollout will feature five ETFs covering US equities, gold, and fixed income instruments. These tokenised assets will be accessible via crypto wallets and tradable 24/7 across Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Following the announcement, Ondo saw its price rise to a weekly high before retreating in line with the broader market correction.
Leadership Shift in US Crypto Policy
In parallel, David Sacks has stepped down from his role as White House AI and Crypto Czar after completing his 130-day term. During his tenure, Sacks played a pivotal role in advancing the GENIUS Act, which established a regulatory structure for stablecoins in the United States.
He also supported initiatives such as the creation of a strategic bitcoin reserve and a digital asset stockpile. Sacks will now serve as co-chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST).
