The cryptocurrency world continues to evolve, from expanding Bitcoin adoption in Switzerland to the increasing reliance on DeFi in Yemen amid sanctions, and political drama surrounding the US Federal Reserve. Here’s what made headlines today:

Spar in Switzerland Accepts Bitcoin Payments

A Spar supermarket in Zug, Switzerland, has become a pioneer by accepting Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network. This marks a significant step in integrating crypto into everyday transactions.

The rollout was part of a community-driven project called BTC Mao, with DFX Swiss providing the crypto-to-fiat payment solution. In a LinkedIn post, DFX noted, “This Spar location is among the first supermarkets in Switzerland where you can pay directly at the checkout using Bitcoin.”

Switzerland, known for its crypto-friendly stance, has seen rapid adoption. For instance, the city of Lugano began accepting Bitcoin and Tether payments for municipal fees in 2023. This growing trend underscores the increasing mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies in Europe.

Yemen Turns to DeFi Amid Sanctions

As US sanctions target the Houthi group, labelled a terrorist organisation, Yemenis are turning to decentralised finance (DeFi) for financial resilience. DeFi platforms now account for 63% of the country’s crypto-related web traffic, with centralised exchanges making up only 18%, according to TRM Labs.

Conflict has long disrupted Yemen’s banking infrastructure, limiting access to financial services. However, DeFi’s ability to bypass these disruptions offers Yemenis an alternative. TRM Labs noted, “For those who use cryptocurrencies in Yemen, it provides a modicum of financial resilience amid conflict and inoperable banks.”

Trump Criticises Fed Chair Over Rate Cuts

Former US President Donald Trump launched fresh attacks on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for being slow to cut interest rates, particularly after the European Central Bank’s latest rate reductions.

On April 17, Trump accused Powell of acting “too late,” saying, “Powell’s termination cannot come fast enough!” Florida Senator Rick Scott echoed Trump’s sentiment, calling for new leadership at the Federal Reserve.

Trump’s remarks highlight ongoing tensions between the executive branch and the central bank, breaking a longstanding convention to keep the Fed politically independent. Powell, whose term ends in May 2026, affirmed that Fed independence is protected by law during an address in Chicago on April 16.

Crypto Adoption Rising Amid Challenges

These stories reflect the dynamic nature of crypto adoption globally. While countries like Switzerland embrace Bitcoin payments, others, such as Yemen, turn to DeFi out of necessity. Meanwhile, political developments in the US continue to spotlight the influence of cryptocurrency on global economic policies.

As Bitcoin, blockchain, and DeFi continue to redefine financial systems, today’s updates demonstrate the interplay between innovation, regulation, and real-world challenges.