SEC Plans to Allow Tokenized Stock Trading, Potentially Reshaping U.S. Markets

SEC plans to permit tokenized stock trading, reshaping market structure The SEC is preparing a policy to let crypto firms offer blockchain-based tokenized stock trading without full compliance with traditional disclosure rules, according to Reuters. The proposal has raised concerns among traditional institutions about liquidity diversion and regulatory arbitrage. 1

Iran peace talks delay dampens market optimism after initial deal World shares turned mixed and U.S. futures fell as high-stakes talks on reopening Iran’s nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz were postponed. The delay tempered the relief rally that had followed the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding. 2

SpaceX leveraged ETFs trade over $10 billion in first week Eleven leveraged single-stock ETFs tied to SpaceX launched within days of its record IPO, generating more than $10 billion in trading volume during the holiday-shortened first week. The frenzy contributed to U.S. ETF flows surpassing $1 trillion by mid-June. 34

SpaceX stock ends first week up 14% after historic IPO Shares of Elon Musk’s SpaceX closed its first trading week 14% above the IPO price, with the stock ending at $160.95 on its debut day and maintaining gains. The $85.7 billion offering was the largest in Wall Street history. 5

Intel stock rockets higher, leading chip and memory rally Intel shares surged as much as 11.8% on Thursday, driving a broader semiconductor rebound that helped the Nasdaq recover midweek losses. The move came amid a tech-led rally that saw chip stocks outperform. 67

Kroger reports Q1 2026 results, maintains full-year guidance Kroger posted adjusted EPS of $1.58 on identical sales growth of 1.0% excluding fuel, with e-commerce sales up 19%. The grocer maintained its 2026 outlook and highlighted progress under new CEO Greg Foran. 8

‘Bliss trade’ concept suggests government backstops may prevent market crashes The ‘bliss’ (big lasting state support) trade theory posits that governments and central banks are unwilling to let major companies fail, potentially making equities a one-way bet. The idea has gained traction as the S&P 500 surpassed 7,600 for the first time this year. 9

Americans uneasy over SpaceX’s growing role in retirement accounts Guardian readers expressed concern that the SpaceX IPO and AI boom could concentrate retirement savings in a few volatile stocks. With Musk pushing for early index inclusion, many 401(k) holders may become indirect investors in the newly public company. 10