Weekly digest covering Ethereum zkAPI launch, Base Cobalt upgrade, USDT on Bitcoin, Balancer/Blast shutdowns, and Visa stablecoin settlement integration.

DeFi & Yields · 2026-10-03

Ethereum launched zkAPI while Base deployed its Cobalt upgrade, and USDT returned to the Bitcoin network via Utexo, which plans future Lightning Network support. Balancer and Blast announced plans to shut down, and Visa Direct integrated with stablecoin settlement infrastructure. Vitalik Buterin published an article describing Ethereum as evolving into a "cryptographic world computer."

Previously on Telem

Bridge launches OUSD stablecoin with $1B liquidity commitment 2026-10-01
Blast cryptocurrency project declares bankruptcy, shuts down operations 2026-10-03
Circle demands 80% USDC return within 48 hours or freeze 2026-10-03
Bybit delists BLASTUSDT perpetual contract October 4 2026-10-03
Blast L2 blockchain shutting down, operating costs exceed revenue 2026-10-02