Alexander Mardar

A new stablecoin staking protocol boosts yields by rewarding users based on how long they’re willing to lock up their funds. The system, dubbed a blockchain-based fractional reserve model, balances liquidity with yield optimization and introduces layered risk management to protect liquid depositors.

A new blockchain, Plasma, is positioning itself as purpose-built for stablecoins. The chain will be fully EVM-compatible and promises zero fees on USDT transfers. But beyond marketing appeal, what core features do stablecoins truly need from the underlying blockchain?

The Ethereum Foundation is entering a new phase with a structured treasury policy, shifting from passive ETH holdings to strategic deployment. Guided by “Defipunk” values, EF plans to support privacy-first, trust-minimized DeFi while improving financial transparency and counter-cyclical engagement

The new safety module significantly enhances the Aave Protocol’s protection against potential shortfall events, representing a major upgrade over the original safety module introduced in 2020.

The increase in volume has been attributed to rising activity across the BNB ecosystem and the launch of PancakeSwap’s Version 4 ‘Infinity’ upgrade, which introduced multiple new pool types and gas-saving features.

Worldcoin’s new Layer 2 network, Worldchain, is built to prioritize real users, with features like free gas and priority blockspace for verified humans. While still early, the network is showing steady growth and has started to attract meaningful onchain activity.

Katana, a new DeFi chain, incubated by Polygon and GSR, is introducing innovative economic incentives to attract liquidity and generate sustainable yields for its users. The project has already opened "pre-deposits" and is aiming for a launch in June.

Starknet, once focused solely on Ethereum, is pivoting toward Bitcoin with Broly, a new inscription service that bypasses the need for BTC. Facing stagnation on Ethereum and rising L2 competition, the project is betting on Bitcoin’s untapped potential to regain traction and relevance.