Bitcoin Reaches Block 961,632 as BIP-110 Soft Fork Signaling Begins

Russian retailers reported a sharp increase in hardware crypto wallet sales as new rules for digital assets move closer. The surge highlights growing interest in self-custody, even as legal limits and device-security risks remain firmly in place.

LMAX Group is assessing strategic alternatives with major advisers as the institutional trading platform weighs paths that could include a sale, SPAC merger or public listing. A Nasdaq listing is viewed by some people familiar with the discussions as the preferred route, though the firm is not under immediate pressure to move while crypto markets remain soft.

U.S. equity benchmarks are drawing support from a surprise payrolls decline, softer yields and contained crude prices. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq now face key breakout tests as traders weigh whether the move is durable buying or short covering.