Crypto

Eight big U.S. banks press for easing Basel capital rules; focus on Treasury market liquidity and bitcoin impact

Major U.S. banks are seeking to ease capital rules introduced after the 2008 financial crisis, arguing the Basel framework being pursued could reduce U.S. Treasury market liquidity and weaken market functioning. Regulators are reviewing possible adjustments to balance financial stability and market efficiency. Banks say the new Basel capital rules could sharply raise trading-unit capital burdens. Markets are watching potential effects on lending capacity, liquidity and risk appetite, including possible spillovers to bitcoin and stablecoins.

AI & Enterprise

AI infrastructure investment seen at $800 billion, shaking bitcoin liquidity recovery scenario

A surge in investment in AI infrastructure is emerging as a new growth driver for the U.S. economy but is also seen as a burden for bitcoin, as it could stoke inflation and delay Federal Reserve rate cuts. Goldman Sachs forecasts AI capital spending nearing $800 billion in 2026. Investors see a high chance of rates being held steady at the June FOMC meeting. Bitcoin has fallen below $62,000 and spot ETF outflows have extended to 11 sessions.