Re: Blockstream's strategic alliances; I don't know if this is a popular idea around here, but I see Bitcoin as a public good. Are you in a position to reveal the precise nature of these new relationships? Are you inclined to? Are there contracts?
AXA SV have updated their site with this:
Blockstream provides companies with the most mature, well tested, and secure blockchain technology in production the blockchain original protocol extended via interoperable sidechains along with one of the most experienced teams in the industry.
Sounds to me like they have bought Bitcoin. I wasn't aware that Blockstream had an alternative implementation that they were flogging, so I assume they mean Bitcoin Core. Were Blockstream in the position to do that? I guess core feel they were, if AXA can feel justified in writing that on their website.