Crypto’s Political Machine $263 Million to Rival Big Oil

Bankman-Fried's lawyer argues that the trial of the FTX founder was fundamentally unfair, as he seeks to overturn his conviction during a hearing in a New York appeals court.

A group of seasoned foreign-exchange veterans is making waves by attempting to bring Wall Street's structured approach to the more chaotic realm of cryptocurrency. This initiative is significant as it could lead to greater stability and trust in the crypto market, potentially attracting more investors and legitimizing digital currencies in the eyes of traditional finance.

In a recent interview with '60 Minutes', Donald Trump claimed he does not know who Changpeng Zhao, the founder of Binance, is, despite having pardoned him. This statement raises eyebrows, especially since Trump described Zhao as a victim of a 'Biden witch hunt.' The implications of this disconnect highlight the complexities of political pardons and the ongoing tensions in the crypto industry, making it a significant moment in the intersection of politics and finance.

The recent $38 billion deal between Amazon and OpenAI has sparked a significant rally in tech stocks, marking the beginning of what is traditionally the best month for the stock market. This surge highlights the growing confidence in artificial intelligence investments, which could lead to further advancements and opportunities in the tech sector. However, it's worth noting that while stocks are climbing, bond yields are rising and cryptocurrency values are declining, indicating a mixed market response.

The crypto industry is gearing up for the 2026 midterms with a significant financial boost, amassing around $263 million through super political action committees. This amount nearly doubles the spending of the largest committee in the 2024 elections, showcasing the growing influence of crypto in politics.

Mizuho has reaffirmed its Outperform rating on Chewy's stock, even with the recent increase in membership fees. This decision reflects confidence in Chewy's business model and growth potential, suggesting that the company is well-positioned to navigate the changes.

Geberit has reported a 5.4% increase in sales for Q3 2025, showcasing resilience despite facing currency headwinds. This growth reflects the company's strong market position and effective strategies.

The U.S. bank regulator has expressed that mergers could bring significant value to the banking sector and is dedicated to conducting a swift review process. This commitment aims to facilitate beneficial consolidations that can enhance efficiency and stability in the financial landscape.

The RBI has announced new leadership appointments at Popeyes and Burger King, signaling a fresh direction for both brands. This move is expected to enhance their market presence and drive innovation in their offerings.

Apollo has decided to withdraw its $2.1 billion bid to take the pizza chain Papa John's private, according to sources. This move raises questions about the future of the company and its strategic direction.