Deal one, who's next?

US Announces First Trade Agreement.

The United States yesterday announced its first trade agreement with the United Kingdom. The deal focuses on cooperation in sectors like technology, energy, and security and is intended to facilitate trade flows between the two countries.

More importantly, the broader context matters: this agreement marks a first step in providing clarity within the uncertain environment created by the global trade war the US is waging, particularly against China and Europe. Markets reacted positively, as the deal shows a willingness to make agreements — which removes some tension from the market. Although this is just the beginning, it sends a positive signal.

Coinbase Acquires Deribit for $2.9 Billion.

Big news in the crypto world: Coinbase is acquiring Deribit, the world’s largest crypto options platform, for no less than $2.9 billion. This is the largest acquisition ever in the sector. Fun fact: Deribit is a Dutch company — Dutch crypto innovation on the global stage!

For Coinbase, this deal represents a further expansion of their service offering, strengthening their position as a leading trading platform. For the broader market, it’s a signal that established players are fully committed to growth, professionalization, and scaling.

FED Holds Rates Steady, Waits for Clarity.

The US central bank (FED) has decided this week to keep interest rates unchanged. The main reason: it’s still too uncertain how Trump’s newly imposed trade tariffs will affect the economy, especially inflation.

The FED is therefore choosing a wait-and-see approach. Only when more concrete data becomes available on the effects of these measures can a decision follow to lower rates.

Markets reacted neutrally to the news, as this outcome was largely priced in. The next major FED meeting where a rate decision is on the table is in June. If the economic data turns out favorable, it’s possible the FED will make its first rate cut then — which would be positive for markets and also for crypto.