Market Updates: Crypto Scammers Target Strait of Hormuz Vessels, Philippines SEC Flags Unauthorized Crypto Platforms, Tether Secures 8.2% Position in Antalpha

Latest Market Updates: As of 21st April 2026.

Crypto markets today reflect a blend of regulatory pressure, security risks, and continued institutional momentum.

In the Strait of Hormuz, scammers are reportedly targeting ships with fake crypto payment demands. Meanwhile, the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission has issued warnings against unregistered platforms such as dYdX.

At the same time, institutional interest continues to strengthen, with Tether acquiring a stake in Antalpha and Bitmine increasing its Ethereum holdings.

Fake Crypto Demands Target Ships Near Strait of Hormuz

Amid ongoing instability in the Middle East, shipping companies operating near the Strait of Hormuz are facing an unusual form of fraud.

Specifically, according to maritime risk firm Marisks, unknown actors have been contacting vessel owners with deceptive payment requests.

These messages falsely claim to come from Iranian security authorities and request cryptocurrency payments, such as Bitcoin or USDT, in exchange for safe passage. Marisks has clarified that these communications are not linked to any official Iranian body and should be treated as scams.

The warning, first reported Monday, comes at a sensitive time for global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint that historically handles around one-fifth of global oil and LNG flows, has seen increased disruption due to regional tensions.

Adding further context, earlier reports this month suggested Iran had considered introducing transit fees payable in Bitcoin. Under the reported proposal, empty tankers would pass freely. In contrast, loaded vessels could be charged roughly $1 per barrel of oil.

Philippines Warns Against Seven Unregistered Crypto Platforms

While maritime security concerns emerge in one region, regulators elsewhere are tightening oversight of the crypto sector.

In particular, the Philippine SEC has issued an advisory warning investors about several unregistered crypto platforms operating in the country. The list includes dYdX, gTrade, Aevo, Pacifica, Deriv, Orderly, and Ostium.

According to the regulator, these platforms appear to promote investment products promising returns or profits without proper authorization.

Under Philippine law, such services must be licensed as crypto-asset service providers and meet strict operational and capital requirements.

In addition, the SEC warned that individuals or groups promoting these platforms could face serious legal consequences. Violations of the Securities Regulation Code carry penalties of up to 5 million pesos, or imprisonment of up to 21 years.

In some cases, both penalties may be imposed together. This move underscores a broader push to safeguard investors amid rising crypto adoption.

Tether Builds Stake in Bitcoin Finance Firm Antalpha

At the same time, institutional players continue to expand their presence in the crypto ecosystem. Tether has increased its exposure to Bitcoin-focused financial infrastructure by acquiring a significant stake in Antalpha.

A filing with the US SEC shows that Tether now holds an 8.2% share, equal to about 1.95 million shares. The document also notes that Giancarlo Devasini has voting and decision-making authority over the holdings.

Antalpha, which went public in May 2025, specializes in Bitcoin-backed lending and provides financing solutions for mining equipment.

By the end of 2024, it reported a loan portfolio of around $1.6 billion and maintains close ties with mining hardware manufacturer Bitmain.

The filing suggests Tether may adjust its position over time depending on market conditions.

Bitmine Expands Ethereum Holdings with Major Purchase

Meanwhile, corporate accumulation of major crypto assets continues, with Bitmine Immersion Technologies significantly expanding its Ethereum holdings.

The company purchased 101,627 ETH between April 13 and April 19, according to a press release and regulatory filing—its largest acquisition since December 2025.

Following the latest purchase, Bitmine now holds nearly 4.98 million ETH, valued at approximately $11.5 billion at a reference price of $2,301 per token.

The position represents over 4% of Ethereum’s circulating supply, with the company still targeting a long-term goal of reaching 5%.