Coinbase has outlined three major areas expected to shape the cryptocurrency landscape in 2026. These include the expansion of decentralized finance (DeFi), the integration of blockchain technology in traditional financial systems, and the growth of digital asset regulation. The exchange anticipates these trends will drive significant innovation and adoption in the coming year. In a separate development, China is set to allow digital yuan holdings to earn interest under a new regulatory framework. This move is part of China's broader strategy to enhance the appeal of its central bank digital currency (CBDC) and integrate it more deeply into the financial system. Meanwhile, Ethereum developers have announced that the Hegota upgrade is scheduled for late 2026. This upgrade is part of an accelerated roadmap aimed at improving the network's scalability and efficiency, marking a significant milestone in Ethereum's ongoing evolution.