Cryptocurrency Phone

HTC, which is struggling to stay relevant in the Android-phone-manufacturing world, has unveiled a “blockchain-based” handset that comes with a secure cryptocurrency wallet built in. The Exodus 1’s design keeps the wallet separated from the Android operating system, which HTC claims is “fundamentally insecure with a centralized system”—an interesting stance for an Android device maker to take, though one that is commonly accepted in the cybersecurity world. CNBC

Russian Aviation

Russia’s regional aviation needs are poorly served, according to the CEO of state bank VTO, which has partnered with another state bank, Sberbank, to create a new airline for that market. The joint venture could see an entirely new airline created, or some sort of partnership with an existing carrier. Aeroflot hasn’t signed up, though. Financial Times

Chinese Autonomy

Chinese President Xi Jinping said the country must become more self-reliant by developing its manufacturing industry. “Manufacturing is a key to the real economy, and the core strength of manufacturing is innovation, or the control of core technologies,” he said. “We must… seek innovation by relying on ourselves, and I hope all enterprises will work in this direction.” South China Morning Post

Benetton Death

Gilberto Benetton, one of the siblings that founded United Colors of Benetton in the 1960s, has died. He was the one that encouraged the Benetton operation to diversify away from clothing into areas such as construction, catering and transport. BBC

This edition of CEO Daily was edited by David Meyer. Find previous editions here, and sign up for other Fortune newsletters here.