Bitcoin’s Ecosystem Expands as Ex-Coinbase Engineers Launch Nook Crypto Savings App

In a significant development for the cryptocurrency sector, three former Coinbase engineers have launched Nook, a user-friendly crypto savings app aimed at simplifying decentralized finance (DeFi) lending. The startup has successfully secured $2.5 million in funding from prominent investors, including Coinbase Ventures, Defy.vc, and UDHC. Designed to cater to non-crypto-native users, Nook eliminates the complexities typically associated with traditional DeFi platforms by allowing sign-ups with just an email address. This innovative approach could potentially attract a broader audience to the world of digital assets, further expanding Bitcoin's ecosystem. Nook's initial lending partner is Moonwell, a platform known for its robust DeFi solutions. This launch underscores the growing trend of making cryptocurrency more accessible to the masses, a key driver for Bitcoin's long-term adoption and value.

Ex-Coinbase Engineers Launch Nook Crypto Savings App With $2.5M Funding

Three former Coinbase engineers have introduced Nook, a crypto savings app designed to simplify decentralized finance lending. The startup secured $2.5 million in funding from Coinbase Ventures, Defy.vc, and UDHC. Targeting non-crypto-native users, Nook eliminates the complexity of traditional DeFi platforms by allowing sign-ups with just an email address.

Nook's initial lending partner is Moonwell, a platform founded by another Coinbase alumnus. During its pre-launch phase, the app onboarded over 50,000 users from a waiting list, offering 8% annual returns on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. "We can't guarantee it, but that has been the result that users have been seeing," said CEO Joey Isaacson.

The app is now live in the U.S. App Store, with plans for a global rollout. By reducing the average 14-step process to access DeFi lending, Nook aims to bridge the gap for mainstream investors.

Bitcoin Faces Dual Risks as U.S.-Iran Tensions Escalate

Bitcoin has maintained stability above $100,000 despite the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, now in its sixth day. However, analysts warn this calm may be fleeting. With growing speculation about potential U.S. military involvement, bitcoin confronts a dual threat: inflationary pressures and a broader retreat from risk assets.

Geopolitical tensions are forcing traders and institutions to reevaluate Bitcoin's role—will it serve as a crisis hedge or mirror the decline of other risk-on assets? At present, Bitcoin trades range-bound between $100,000 and $110,000, exhibiting resilience but facing potential volatility. QCP Capital highlights a critical risk factor: the Strait of Hormuz. Any disruption to this vital oil corridor could trigger a global inflation spike, compounding existing market strains from high interest rates and sluggish growth.

The specter of U.S. intervention looms large, with markets bracing for impact. Bitcoin's next MOVE hinges on whether it can uphold its haven status or succumb to macroeconomic headwinds.

Trump Criticizes Fed's Rate Decision as Bitcoin Stagnates

Former President Donald TRUMP launched a scathing attack on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for maintaining current interest rates, accusing him of costing America billions. The Fed's decision to keep rates steady at 4.25%-4.5% has coincided with Bitcoin's price stagnation, with the cryptocurrency barely moving since the June policy announcement.

Bitcoin has been trapped in a tight range around $104,000, posting negligible gains between 0.1% and 0.28%. The Fed's cautious approach appears to have halted Bitcoin's previous momentum, frustrating traders and drawing presidential ire. Over the past fortnight, BTC has inched up just 0.3%.

Trump's criticism, posted on his Truth Social platform, included a LINK to housing finance regulators calling for Powell's resignation if rates remain unchanged. "Too Late—Powell is the WORST. A real dummy," Trump wrote, reflecting growing political pressure on central bank policy.

Bitcoin's Role in Enhancing Traditional 60/40 Portfolios

Bitcoin's integration into traditional investment strategies is gaining traction as Bitwise Investments highlights its potential to reshape the classic 60/40 portfolio. The analysis underscores Bitcoin's ability to improve risk-adjusted returns through its non-correlated asset characteristics.

Historical volatility concerns are being reassessed as even modest Bitcoin allocations demonstrate meaningful performance impact. Bitwise's research suggests the cryptocurrency's high historical returns, despite short-term fluctuations, offer diversification benefits that challenge conventional portfolio construction.

Max Keiser's Cryptic 'Satoshi' Tweet Ignites Bitcoin Community as Kiyosaki Predicts $1 Million BTC

Bitcoin maximalist Max Keiser sparked fervent discussion across crypto Twitter with a mysterious tweet featuring a hooded figure kneeling before a sword in stone—a clear nod to the Arthurian legend of Excalibur. The single-word caption "Satoshi" amplified speculation, with commentators likening Bitcoin's creator to a mythic disruptor of traditional finance. The imagery resonated deeply with Bitcoiners, reinforcing narratives of cryptographic sovereignty.

Meanwhile, Robert Kiyosaki's $1 million Bitcoin price prediction injected fresh bullish sentiment into markets. The 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' author's forecast coincides with growing institutional interest, as evidenced by recent ETF inflows and corporate treasury allocations. Such high-profile endorsements continue to legitimize Bitcoin as a hedge against monetary debasement.

Bitcoin Price Holds Key Support Amid Mixed Market Signals

Bitcoin's price action remains a focal point as traders weigh conflicting indicators. The cryptocurrency lingers above critical support NEAR $93,000 despite bearish pressure in derivatives markets. Futures Market Power metrics dipped to -93K, signaling moderate bearish sentiment—yet historical patterns suggest this may precede only modest corrections.

Long-term fundamentals tell a different story. Positive Futures Basis across major exchanges reveals sustained demand, with traders paying premiums to maintain positions. The $107,000 resistance level looms as a potential upside target should accumulation continue.