Search results for Michael Barr
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.
Crypto
Fed\'s Barr says GENIUS Act could boost stablecoin growth, but risk controls key
Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr (마이클 바) said clearer regulation could accelerate the stablecoin market, but warned that the rollout of the GENIUS Act must control risks including money laundering, bank runs and consumer protection. He said outcomes will depend on how federal and state regulators enforce the law. Barr also cautioned that issuers seeking higher returns on reserves could weaken confidence in redemptions during market stress.
Finance
U.S. retail industry grows more dependent on buy now, pay later
U.S. retailers are increasingly relying on buy now, pay later (BNPL) payment options amid high interest rates and concerns about weaker consumer spending. Forbes reported that merchants adopting PayPal’s BNPL saw average order values rise 91 percent. Competition is expanding among major BNPL providers and card issuers. Regulators and credit agencies are also stepping up scrutiny as usage concentrates among financially vulnerable consumers and delinquency concerns grow.