US Senate debate over a bill called the Clarity Act has reignited discussion about XRP and other crypto products, and how they might be treated under US rules. Related Reading: Ethereum Staking Hits Record Levels As Buterin Urges Builders To Deliver Real Apps Reports have disclosed that the bill could give clearer status to tokens that back US-listed ETFs, moving them closer to commodity-style treatment. XRP spot ETFs have also drawn large capital, with inflows reaching about $1.37 billion since their November 2025 launch — a figure that underlines why lawmakers and market watchers are paying attention. How It Works Creation and redemption in ETFs can happen “in kind,” which means the fund can accept the actual asset instead of cash. That mechanism is real, but it does not let ordinary buyers load tokens directly into a fund. Authorized participants — big broker-dealers and market makers — are the ones that hand tokens to ETFs and receive shares back. Everyday investors buy or sell ETF shares on exchanges. That gap is central to the debate about whether an ETF could ever function like a bank. The XRP ETF’s are also In-Kind Funds, so you can deposit XRP directly into the fund in exchange for the exact value in shares. Most in general will choose this option post law. There are many advantages to this, you will be able to use the ETF like a “bank”. https://t.co/2G49kxUpGc pic.twitter.com/4fyeOkEYTC — Chad Steingraber (@ChadSteingraber) January 13, 2026 What Community Voices Are Saying According to posts from XRP community figures, some see a future where ETFs act like a regulated parking spot for token holders. Chad Steingraber has been vocal about in-kind mechanics, arguing that investors could swap XRP for matching ETF shares and treat the funds as a safer place to hold value until they need to move tokens again. Those comments have helped popularize the idea that ETFs could be used in a bank-like way. What Taxes Might Look Like Reports and investor guides show that ETF structure matters for taxes. ETFs often use in-kind creation and redemption to avoid routine capital gains distributions at the fund level, which helps make ETFs tax-efficient in many cases. But tax consequences for token holders depend on how transactions are carried out and on the product’s legal structure. Under current US rules, transfers that change the form of an asset can create taxable events for the person handing over the asset, and fund-level distributions can still produce tax bills for investors. Related Reading: Ethereum On Fire: User Growth Sparks Massive Activity Spike According to Chad Steingraber, the in-kind structure gives XRP holders a regulated place to park their tokens when they want safety and oversight. Investors, Steingraber believes, may favor ETFs once the Clarity Act clarifies rules. The appeal is not the technical steps but the confidence of holding XRP in a regulated, organized product. For him, ETFs offer a safer way to manage tokens while still keeping access to them when needed. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
For a market that usually moves in one direction, some voices are starting to say this time might look a little different. Canary Capital CEO Steven McClurg said XRP could move on a different path from Bitcoin this year, pointing to enterprise use cases as a key reason. Related Reading: Futures Frenzy Pushed Crypto Exchange Volume To Nearly $80 Trillion In 2025 He made the remarks during a podcast with host Paul Barron, and outlined a cautious view of Bitcoin while singling out protocols tied to real-world tokenization. According to McClurg, the shift in focus toward practical applications may help a small set of tokens behave differently than the wider market. XRP And Hedera Seen As Practical Picks McClurg named the XRP Ledger and Hedera as examples of networks that could benefit from enterprise adoption and tokenization efforts. He argued that platforms with clear utility — like payment rails, tokenized assets, or stablecoin infrastructure — have a better chance of holding value when speculative momentum fades. Reports have disclosed that he does not expect these assets to race higher; instead, modest gains are the likeliest outcome, with growth described as low double-digit rather than explosive. Bitcoin Faces Additional Downside McClurg turned more negative on Bitcoin. He said he believes Bitcoin peaked on October 6, 2025, at $126,200. Since that date Bitcoin has slipped roughly 35% to about $95,800. He warned that prices could fall another 20–30% over the next six to nine months, which would place BTC roughly between $65,000 and $77,000 before the end of the cycle. Based on his view, a new all-time high is not expected in 2026 and the market may be entering a deeper correction. Markets Could Still Move Together Critics point out that altcoins often suffer greater losses when the market experiences a downturn, and history supports that caution. Liquidity tends to dry up during big Bitcoin sell-offs, and even assets with real use cases can be pushed lower in a broad risk-off episode. In layman’s phrasing, XRP might fall less than Bitcoin and therefore look stronger in comparison, but outright independence from Bitcoin is rare and usually temporary. Related Reading: Ethereum Staking Hits Record Levels As Buterin Urges Builders To Deliver Real Apps Relative Outperformance The More Likely Outcome According to McClurg’s perspective, what is most realistic is relative outperformance rather than complete separation. That means XRP and similar tokens could remain flat or show modest positive returns while Bitcoin weakens. Such a pattern would still be notable for holders and for enterprises planning tokenization projects, but it falls short of a dramatic price surge. Featured image from Bitpanda Blog, chart from TradingView
Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase (COIN) recently retracted its support for the latest iteration of the crypto market structure bill, known as the CLARITY Act, just 24 hours before a crucial markup was scheduled. This signals significant concerns about the bill’s alignment with the interests of cryptocurrency firms compared to traditional banking institutions, not only for the exchange but also for broader market participants. Coinbase CEO’s Concerns Over Fair Competition On Friday, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong elaborated on the rationale behind the exchange’s withdrawal in an appearance on FOX Business, expressing his frustration with the notion that banks could use regulatory means to stifle competition in their favor. “It just felt deeply unfair to me that one industry [banks] would come in and get to do regulatory capture to ban their competition,” Armstrong stated. He also underscored the importance of a level playing field, asserting that competition should thrive without undue interference from powerful financial entities. Related Reading: Crypto Market Bill Draft Criticized For Allowing Continued Developer Prosecution Coinbase CEO emphasized that his concerns resonate with “much of the industry,” highlighting his obligation to advocate for customers who he believes are being shortchanged by the provisions of the proposed market legislation. “I declined to opine on the exact—whether the hearing, the markup should happen or not… But I did feel like I had to speak up on behalf of our customers and all Americans here,” he articulated. Debate Heats Over CLARITY Act Central to the ongoing debate surrounding the CLARITY Act is a critical disagreement between banks and crypto firms regarding the fate of stablecoin holders and whether they should be entitled to receive reward payments. Armstrong has previously raised alarms that the bill might prohibit tokenized equities, impose restrictions on decentralized finance (DeFi), and expand governmental access to financial data, thereby compromising individual privacy. Furthermore, he warned that the legislation could shift regulatory authority away from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and towards the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), sidelining competition within the crypto space. Armstrong Critiques Banking Lobbying Tactics Armstrong noted the irony in the current situation, pointing out that while banks are indeed leveraging the advantages of cryptocurrency, their lobbying efforts seem aimed at restricting competing firms. “Many of these banks are actually very smart,” he acknowledged, referencing the commercial side of banking that is increasingly engaging with crypto. “They’re actually doing deals with Coinbase. We’re powering a lot of crypto and stablecoin infrastructure for them on the commercial side.” Related Reading: Bitcoin And Crypto ETFs Set To Attract $130 Billion-Plus Inflows This Year, JPMorgan Predicts Despite his criticisms of the banking sector’s lobbying tactics, Armstrong expressed optimism that legislators could ultimately resolve the outstanding issues within the crypto market structure bill: And then their lobbying arm comes to D.C. and thinks of it as very zero-sum and is trying to kill the competition. So, I suspect, like many things, if we get the principles in the room, we can actually get this figured out and make a good deal. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com
The US crypto industry believed it stood on the precipice of securing the regulatory legitimacy it has pursued for a decade, but the political ground has suddenly shifted beneath it. On Jan. 14, Sen. Tim Scott, the chair of the Senate Banking Committee, postponed a vote on the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act. This delay […]
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The recent Bitcoin rally may be driven by real spot demand on Coinbase. Data indicating elevated spot activity on Coinbase suggests that this move higher is bolstered by direct purchases rather than leveraged positioning in derivatives markets. This distinction matters because Spot buying reflects a real capital commitment, not a temporary bet. Why Risk Management When Demand Is Structural The Bitcoin rally since Sunday’s Powell subpoena news has been largely linked to Coinbase spot buyers. Crypto trader Alex Krüger has highlighted on X that both the Adjusted Coinbase Premium and Cumulative Volume Delta (CVD) show steady spot accumulation, which is exactly why this has been a true hated rally even among bitcoiners. For over a month, the dominant narrative in every crypto chat room has been that BTC is lagging while equities and commodities are moving upward. Related Reading: Analyst Outlines The Bulllish And Bearish Scenarios For Bitcoin – Here’s What To Know However, the fun fact is that equities are not accurate, but 40% of the S&P 500 (Standard & Poor’s 500) stocks have actually closed red in 2025, (39.2% to be precise). Perception is doing a lot of work here, and the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) move on Powell represented a major macro litmus test for BTC. Kruger claims that the BTC long-term value proposition is about protecting against the tail risk of central bank profligacy. On Monday, BTC surged upward, although the move was just a little surge. According to Krüger, the BTC key battlefield remains the 50-week moving average (WMA), which is currently around $101,420. Meanwhile, the trader is looking to take some profits into short liquidations right above the $100,000 mark. Why Bitcoin Benefits First From Institutional Flows The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act is set for markup today, January 15th, 2026, in the Senate Banking Committee. According to the update by BTC_road_to200k on X (Formally Twitter), this is where the lawmakers will debate and shape the final version of the bill before it moves forward. Related Reading: Bitcoin Price Stays Pinned Above Support, Setting Up a Bigger Move This matters because the art aims to clear up the ongoing regulatory uncertainty between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which has been a major source of hesitation for large institutional players looking to move into Bitcoin and other digital assets. Furthermore, the Clarity Act will be a turning point as it aims to clear rules that will bring more confidence to banks, pension funds, and large investors, which often translates into higher demand and stronger price momentum for BTC. As the regulatory clouds lift, the market might start experiencing a renewed wave of institutional money flowing in, and that’s obviously bullish for BTC. Featured image from Pixabay, chart from Tradingview.com
The CLARITY Act, expected to clarify digital asset rules, will enable blockchain to bring real-time transparency to government operations and public spending.
The recently released draft of the CLARITY Act, a significant piece of legislation aimed at regulating the crypto market, has ignited a wave of criticism from supporters within the community. Initially, the bill was meant to include protections for developers. However, expert commentary suggests that it opens the door to continued prosecution of developers and enhances surveillance measures for users of non-custodial software. Crypto Market Structure Bill Draft Lacks Essential Protections Market expert Ryan Adams highlighted another key issue in the crypto bill, stating that if banks succeed in eliminating stablecoin yield provisions within the CLARITY Act, it would indicate that the Senate is prioritizing bank interests over those of the general public. Adams’s concerns were echoed by various users, who opined that the strategy appears orchestrated to allow banks to benefit by controlling how yields are managed and distributed. Related Reading: Zcash Foundation Investigation Closed: SEC Decision Sparks 12% Jump In ZEC Price An independent report by The Rage reinforces these worries, detailing how the proposed draft includes so-called developer protections that may fall short. Notably absent are safeguards against the rigorous implications of the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) for self-custodial wallets. Additionally, the draft hints at possible applications to decentralized finance (DeFi) that could empower agencies to implement Travel Rule-like regulations, along with anti-money laundering (AML) measures targeting web-based interfaces and blockchain analysis firms. Per the report, the Senate has already received 137 amendments to the draft ahead of its markup, scheduled for January 15. A revised version of the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act (BRCA) is also included, which has been seen as vital for protecting developers. BRCA Loopholes While the BRCA offers exemptions under AML and counter-terrorist financing regulations, it continues to leave developers vulnerable to accountability for the actions of users utilizing their software. The BRCA states that “non-controlling” developers—defined as those without unilateral control over digital asset transactions—will not be categorized as money transmitters under the relevant laws. However, this only alleviates certain charges and doesn’t prevent criminal liability for those whose software is misused. Pro-crypto Senator Cynthia Lummis remarked on this aspect of the BRCA, indicating that it retains all necessary AML protections, which implies that despite any positives, accountability remains a looming threat for developers. Simultaneously, the “Keep Your Coins Act” within the draft includes provisions claiming that federal agencies cannot prohibit self-custody of digital assets. However, further stipulations assert that this right does not prevent the application of laws concerning illicit finance, leaving loopholes for government intervention. The Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) past attempts to impose a broker rule that would classify decentralized finance services as intermediaries requiring reporting obligations have been echoed in the current draft. This time, the Senate Banking Committee appears to be leaning towards a similar regulatory approach, aiming to provide guidance on BSA and AML compliance for “non-decentralized finance protocols,” thereby raising concerns about the implications for crypto developers who maintain and update protocols. Privacy Concerns Mount Under the new sections, the Senate Banking Committee introduces a concept termed “Distributed Ledger Application Layers,” which the report claims invites scrutiny and creates compliance obligations for software applications that allow users to interact with decentralized finance protocols. The provisions also compel the Treasury to develop additional oversight mechanisms to mitigate exposure to illicit financing risks identified through distributed ledger analysis tools, effectively ensuring that crypto transactions remain under close scrutiny. Related Reading: The NYC Token Crash: Allegations Of Rug Pull After $2.5 Million Liquidity Withdrawal As it currently stands, the lack of robust protections for developers and users involved in privacy-enhancing technologies in this current draft suggests that the Senate’s proposal for market structure will do little to safeguard non-custodial developers. Instead, it further entrenches their vulnerability to government oversight and user surveillance. Ultimately, these developments present a significant challenge for privacy software users and developers. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com
Galaxy Research says illicit finance provisions in the Senate Banking draft go far beyond the House’s Clarity Act.
Crypto pundit Bird has highlighted why this week could be a massive one for XRP. This comes as market investors keep an eye on key macro events such as the U.S. CPI and also the upcoming CLARITY Act markup. Why This Is A Massive Week For XRP In an X post, Bird stated that this is a massive week as the Russell 2000 has rallied to new all-time highs (ATHs). He explained that every previous time that this has happened, XRP has gone on to record a major run. The analyst also alluded to macro data dropping this week, which could also impact the XRP price. Related Reading: Analyst Outlines The Bull Case For XRP And Why Price Will Hit All-Time High Soon Bird noted that the CPI and PPI inflation data, which drops this week, always injects volatility into the crypto market. The crypto pundit also stated that the long-awaited markup of the market structure bill (CLARITY Act) is scheduled for this Thursday. This is significant because the legislation could provide legal clarity for XRP and other crypto assets. The pundit remarked that the charts and macro are aligning for XRP. He predicted that if these developments push the altcoin above $2.70, it could quickly rally to a new all-time high (ATH). Bird asserted that if this doesn’t happen, then the market is likely manipulated, as he believes that XRP and the broader crypto market should be recording significant gains right now. It is worth noting that XRP rallied to as high as $2.3 at the start of the year but has since lost most of those gains, though the altcoin is still up over 10% year-to-date (YTD). XRP could be one of the crypto assets that benefits most from the passage of the CLARITY Act, as it would boost Ripple’s operations, which could in turn drive more adoption for XRP. XRP Could Rally To $2.26 From Here Crypto analyst CasiTrades has predicted that XRP could rally to $2.26 from its current level. In an X post, she stated that she expects the altcoin to reach this level to complete a subwave 2 and that the next wave up is critical. The analyst warned that if the price action stays corrective, then there could be a sharp rejection that sends the altcoin into a subwave 3 down. XRP could break the .5 support in the process and target the $1.65 macro support. However, if XRP’s bounce has the strength to break above $2.41 and flip it into support, this could invalidate the scenario down to $1.65. CasiTrades remarked that this is the key decision in the market, even as market participants keep an eye on the macro fundamentals. Related Reading: Analyst Breaks Down Why Investors will Make More Money With XRP Than Bitcoin At the time of writing, the XRP price is trading at around $2.06, down in the last 24 hours, according to data from CoinMarketCap. Featured image from Freepik, chart from Tradingview.com
On Jan. 13, the US Senate Banking Committee released the full text of the highly anticipated Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (CLARITY) ahead of its expected markup this week. The 278-page draft abandons the strategy of picking winners on a token-by-token basis. Instead, it constructs a comprehensive “lane system” that assigns jurisdiction based on the […]
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Bitcoin (BTC) and the stock market have experienced sharp price swings and declines since 2025. Because of this volatility, a crypto analyst has warned that the market correction could intensify further in 2026. In a detailed analysis, he outlines a bearish scenario for Bitcoin, suggesting the flagship cryptocurrency could soon face another price crash amid persistent downward pressure in the broader stock market. Analyst Warns Of Major Bitcoin And Stock Market Plunge Market analyst Doctor Profit has raised concerns about the direction of the crypto and traditional markets, warning that both Bitcoin and stocks are currently in a severe bear market. In a technical breakdown on X this Monday, the expert highlighted three major bearish setups forming simultaneously in Bitcoin. Related Reading: Why The $2.9 Billion Bitcoin Whale Buy Could Spell Doom For The Market He highlighted a massive Bearish Divergence on the weekly and monthly charts, a clear bearish flag signaling a potential drop toward $70,000, and a possible Head and Shoulder pattern that could still play out. While he acknowledged that Bitcoin could still experience short-term price increases and briefly rise toward the $97,000-$107,000 range due to strong liquidity, he said that the ultimate target remains $70,000. Doctor Profit emphasized that Bitcoin’s potential decline to $70,000 could go two ways. It could either break out of the bearish flag to that downside target or complete the Head and Shoulders pattern before reaching $70,000. He stated that he will not add new short positions at current prices but plans to increase them aggressively from $115,000 to $125,000 if Bitcoin moves into the $97,000 to $107,000 range. The analyst painted a similarly grim picture for the stock market. He said he was “ultra-bearish” on both Bitcoin and the financial system. He also noted that the banks are stressed and that forced liquidations in precious metals like Silver are creating ripples across the broader market. Additionally, Doctor Profit noted that insider activity shows clear signs of panic among investors, with record levels of selling since August 2025. Because of this, the analyst believes that the market is heading for a 2008-style crash. Consequently, he has concluded that the current market conditions are too extreme. On the bright side, Doctor Profit said that although he maintains short positions on stocks and Bitcoin, he remains bullish on Gold and Silver. He explained that any upside to the $97,000-$107,000 range will prompt him to increase his short exposure and roll spot profits for BTC from $85,000 into these positions. Crypto Markets Brace For Key US Decisions Toward the end of his analysis, Doctor Profit discussed upcoming events that could influence Bitcoin and the broader financial markets this week. He stated that the US CPI inflation forecast of 2.7% will be released this Tuesday. Other than this, the rest of the week is expected to have few market-moving events. Related Reading: Bitcoin Price Hits Crash Line, But This Time Is Not Random Doctor Profit has also highlighted January 15 as an important date because US lawmakers will vote on the CLARITY Act. He explained that if the bill passes, it will move closer to becoming law, setting clear rules and oversight for the crypto market. Featured image from Pixabay, chart from Tradingview.com
As the January 15 markup of the crypto market structure bill—known as the CLARITY Act—draws closer, reports indicate that Coinbase (COIN) is reconsidering its support for the legislation. A Monday report from Bloomberg suggests this shift in position is contingent on whether the anticipated bill includes provisions beyond enhanced disclosure requirements tied to stablecoin rewards. High Stakes For Coinbase The CLARITY Act is expected to be marked up in at least one Senate committee this Thursday, and Coinbase’s potential withdrawal could have significant implications for the bill. A source familiar with Coinbase’s stance told Bloomberg that the exchange would re-evaluate its support if the legislation veers too far from its interests, particularly regarding stablecoin incentives. Some insiders suggest the bill might restrict the ability to provide rewards to regulated financial institutions, a move that aligns with the banking sector’s concerns about losing deposits to crypto platforms. Related Reading: Dogecoin Breaks Its ‘Lower-Band Prison’ As Daily Trend Flips Coinbase currently holds applications for a national trust charter that could permit it to offer those kinds of rewards under regulatory rules. However, many crypto-native firms are pushing back against potential restrictions, arguing that such measures could disrupt competition in the market. The stakes for Coinbase are high, as rewards programs play a crucial role in its business model. The exchange allows users to earn 3.5% rewards on Circle’s USDC holdings. Should the market-structure bill include bans on these incentives, fewer users might choose to hold stablecoins on the platform. This could jeopardize an anticipated revenue stream projected at $1.3 billion in 2025, according to Bloomberg. Banking Vs. Crypto The GENIUS Act, passed into law in July of last year, prohibits stablecoin issuers from offering interest on token holdings, and does not prevent third-party partners like Coinbase from providing rewards tied to customer balances. The banking industry, however, argues that allowing exchanges to pay such rewards could negatively impact bank deposits and, consequently, community lending. As reported by Bitcoinist over the past month, the American Bankers Association (ABA) has voiced concerns that this situation could displace “billions” from local lending, allegedly harming small businesses and households. In contrast, Faryar Shirzad, Coinbase’s chief policy officer, has argued that maintaining rewards tied to stablecoins is crucial for preserving the dollar’s dominance, especially in light of China’s announcement to start offering interest on its digital yuan. Banking Lobby Fights Back A potential compromise being discussed would permit only licensed banking entities or financial institutions to provide rewards on stablecoin balances. Related Reading: Why The $2.9 Billion Bitcoin Whale Buy Could Spell Doom For The Market Recently, five crypto firms, including Ripple, Circle, and Paxos, received conditional approvals from the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to become national trust banks, a move met with opposition from the banking lobby. If restrictions are indeed imposed, the report suggests that this could lead to creative workarounds as crypto firms seek alternative ways to reward customers. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com
Standard Chartered forecasts Ethereum outperformance versus Bitcoin, citing network effects and growing real-world asset adoption.
The notorious crypto crash on October 10 of last year sent shockwaves through the market, resulting in the largest liquidation event in history with nearly $20 billion in losses. This catastrophic event ignited significant criticisms and fears among investors regarding the stability of the cryptocurrency market. However, the upcoming crypto market structure bill, known as the CLARITY Act, is being touted as a potential safeguard against future crashes. Market Manipulation In Crypto Could Plummet Market expert Crypto Rover recently took to social media to express optimism about the CLARITY Act as the Senate prepares for a markup on January 15. According to Rover, this crypto bill could reduce market manipulation in the crypto space by an impressive 70% to 80%. Related Reading: 3 Vital Factors Needed For A Lasting 2026 Crypto Surge, Bitwise CIO Unveils He noted the devastating effects of the October 10 event, describing it as a “massacre” for crypto holders, many of whom lost their life savings without clear answers about who was ultimately responsible for the chaos. Rover is confident that with the implementation of the CLARITY Act, the cryptocurrency market could begin operating more like traditional financial markets (TradFi). Institutional Investment Set To Surge Once the CLARITY Act passes in the Senate, Rover asserts that it will move to the floor for a full vote before returning to the House for final approval and eventually reaching President Trump’s desk. He further suggested that this entire process could take one to two months, potentially allowing the CLARITY Act to be signed into law by March 2026. Related Reading: VanEck Predicts Bitcoin Could Reach $2.9 Million In New Long-Term Capital Report Should this come to fruition, it is expected to open the floodgates for institutional investment in the crypto market, fundamentally changing the alleged “daily market manipulation” witnessed in the sector. At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading at $90,357, having erased some of the gains seen at the beginning of the week when the market’s leading crypto surged towards a two-month high of $94,800. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com
The US crypto industry has launched a unified push for Congress to pass federal market-structure legislation, known as the “Digital Asset Market Clarity Act of 2025” (H.R. 3633). The legislation is viewed by industry proponents as the necessary “missing layer” of federal law to allow the industry to thrive. While the “GENIUS Act” established baseline […]
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There’s still a lot of work to be done by US lawmakers to give clarity (no pun intended) and perhaps closure to the long-standing debate on how the CLARITY Act should be enacted into law, when, and how. Related Reading: Bitcoin ETFs Bring The Heat: $1.2 Billion Flows In First 48 Hours—Analyst One lawmaker in the person of Senate Banking Committee Chairman Sen. Tim Scott said the CLARITY Act will be debated in the Senate next week, setting up what could be a decisive moment for US crypto rules. Scott has signaled a markup and a committee vote as early as next Thursday, reports note, putting pressure on negotiators who have been revising the bill for months. Related Reading: Bitcoin ETFs Bring The Heat: $1.2 Billion Flows In First 48 Hours—Analyst Senate Vote Scheduled For Next Week According to multiple reports, Scott told press he wants a formal vote to put members on record about market structure for digital assets. The move comes after lawmakers paused action late last year and pushed key work into January, a delay that left the industry watching closely. seems to me we’re probably going to get a crypto market structure bill…I reviewed the list of remaining issues and the main potential ‘showstoppers’ left are some things around illicit finance re: DeFi front-ends etc…surely some deal should be possible there?…Jan 15th… — _gabrielShapir0 (@lex_node) January 6, 2026 Supporters say the bill would aim to spell out which federal agencies regulate different parts of the crypto market, and to reduce some legal uncertainty for exchanges and token projects. Based on reports, the draft includes provisions on how the SEC and CFTC would share oversight and on consumer protections, though most final details are still being hashed out. Lawmakers Face Key Policy Disputes Several major sticking points remain unresolved, including rules for decentralized finance, stablecoin yields, and how many regulators are needed to take enforcement actions. Reports have warned that the committee may be rushing toward a vote while those issues are still open, which could complicate getting bipartisan support later on. Industry groups and some senators have urged more time to iron out those details. That pressure comes as proponents argue the country needs clearer rules to guide firms and investors. The debate has become both technical and political, with members of both parties expressing concern about leaving important protections unclear. Markets React To The Uncertainty Based on market reports, news of delays and uncertainty around the bill has already moved prices. Bitcoin briefly pushed past $93,000 before retreating to about $86,729 after a recent holdover in the Senate, showing how sensitive crypto markets can be to legislative timing. Traders and firms are watching the calendar closely because even the promise of a vote can sway flows and sentiment. Related Reading: Bitcoin Wealth Isn’t About Hype—It’s About Time And Stacking, Expert Says Bill Could Reach The President The House approved its version of the market structure framework last year, meaning a Senate passage would send the measure to the desk of US President Donald Trump for signature. Committee leaders say getting a clear vote on record is important both for transparency and for moving negotiations forward on the Senate floor. Featured image from National Investigative Training Academy, chart from TradingView
Washington is about to take a serious swing at crypto’s most stubborn problem: who, exactly, is supposed to police the market when a token trades like a commodity, is sold like a security, and moves through software that insists it isn’t a company at all. The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act of 2025 (better known […]
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Prediction markets and analyst desks are sending different signals about Bitcoin’s near-term path. Traders on Polymarket appear cautious, while some big-name firms keep calling for big gains in 2026. Related Reading: Crypto Exchange Korbit Fined $1.90 Million By South Korean Regulators Market Odds And Trader Caution According to Polymarket prices, Bitcoin has just a 23% chance of reaching $150,000 before 2027. The odds are higher at lower targets: 47% for $120,000, 35% for $130,000 and 29% for $140,000. Traders are most comfortable with $100,000, which carries about an 80% chance. That spread shows bettors are pricing risk tightly as the clock runs toward the new year. Bitcoin closed 2025 in the red, a fact that has likely cooled some enthusiasm. Reports have disclosed that gold and silver hit fresh highs in the fourth quarter of 2025, while crypto prices held mostly flat. The old four-year halving cycle that many chartists relied on is being questioned, and that doubt is being priced in. Technical Signals Based on the latest Bitcoin price outlook, BTC is expected to climb 3% to about $91,815 by February 1, 2026. Technical signals point to a Bearish mood, while the Fear & Greed Index stands at 28, reflecting Fear. Over the past 30 days, Bitcoin posted gains on 15 of those days, or 50%, with price swings averaging 2%. Policy Shifts Could Change The Math US President Donald Trump is expected to name a new Federal Reserve chair soon, and many market participants are betting that interest rates will be cut afterward. That idea has already helped send precious metals higher. At the same time, regulators in Washington are pushing crypto bills such as the GENIUS Act and the CLARITY Act, which backers say could give clearer rules and, in time, more institutional interest. Analysts Still Offer Bullish Targets Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has publicly predicted that Bitcoin could reach $180,000 by the end of 2026, citing stronger institutional interest and better regulatory clarity as reasons for his bullish outlook. Related Reading: Bitcoin’s Bear Market Might Not Be New: Data Points To A 2-Month Slide Analysts at JPMorgan have suggested a theoretical Bitcoin price around $170,000 in 2026, based on a model comparing Bitcoin’s behavior to gold and assuming continued capital flows into the crypto market. Grayscale’s 2026 digital asset outlook expects Bitcoin to exceed its previous all-time high in the first half of 2026, implying a move above its record peak of around $126,000 (though not giving a specific numerical target, the implication is toward significant upward momentum). Policymakers, traders and analysts are all weighing different risks. Market prices reflect caution today, while forecasts offer a brighter view for the months ahead. Which one proves right will depend on policy moves, investor appetite and whether new trading patterns replace the cycle many thought they could count on. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
More than 200 new DATs are estimated to have launched in 2025, pushing the value of crypto held by companies beyond $100 billion.
In 2025, crypto regulation stopped being mostly about courtroom theater and started focusing on actual infrastructure. Debates over how or whether to regulate crypto became less philosophical and more operational. Regulators spent the year answering the “boring” questions that decide whether a market can scale: who is allowed to issue a “digital dollar,” what backs […]
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Global crypto products recorded their first outflows in four weeks as Washington pushed key policy discussions to next year, per CoinShares.
Markup sessions review, amend, and vote on the bill in the committee before it advances to a full floor vote in the Senate.
Reports have circulated across social channels this week after a prominent XRP commentator warned critics that they may be underestimating the token’s long-term role in finance. Related Reading: 5,606 Bitcoin: Lightning Network Sets Fresh Capacity Record According to a post on X by user UnknowDLT, XRP’s place in global payment rails was “planned more than a decade ago,” and the token could one day become “the most valuable asset in the world,” a claim that has stirred both debate and disbelief. Community Voice Turns Loud Supporters in the XRP community have long argued that market prices miss bigger shifts. Based on reports from prominent community accounts, followers say short-term trading noise hides structural moves that could lift demand for XRP over many years. One commentator, X Finance Bull, has suggested that Ripple’s escrow — which holds 34.4 billion XRP — will act as locked liquidity for banking corridors and institutional use, not as stockpiled supply destined for retail dumps. The world is NOT ready for what is coming for XRP. It was planned more than a decade ago, it is going to be the most valuable asset in the world. There will be war for your XRP. People keep laughing at XRP. They will end up crying for life, the end will be tragic for them. — {x} (@unknowDLT) December 15, 2025 Regulatory Moves And Institutional Aims Ripple’s recent regulatory steps are central to the bullish case. Reports have disclosed that the company received conditional clearance from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency to pursue a national trust bank charter, and that it is seeking a Federal Reserve master account. Community analysts argue those developments, if fully realized, would move Ripple closer to mainstream financial plumbing and could change how markets view token supply and institutional demand. $XRP HOLDERS ???????????? If you’re thinking about selling your $XRP right now, THINK AGAIN! Remember this? Brad Garlinghouse confirmed the CLARITY Act is expected in early 2026. That’s not a maybe. That’s a countdown. And when it passes, Ripple will be forced to declare the fate of… https://t.co/s1E2KnarnM pic.twitter.com/C4xAcKDltR — X Finance Bull (@Xfinancebull) December 15, 2025 Some supporters also point to a possible US Clarity Act as a legal milestone, with a timeline floated by some voices for passage in the first half of 2026. Tokenization And Big Numbers Analysts and company projections are being used to sketch wider potential. Ripple has suggested the tokenization market could grow to $19 trillion by 2033. Other commentators take that figure and run scenarios: if a slice of that activity used the XRP Ledger, price forecasts can balloon — with one cited bullish figure at $189 per XRP under high-adoption cases. Some community voices expect large-scale tokenization momentum to build between 2026 and 2027, which they say would favor high-throughput ledgers like XRP’s. Related Reading: Ethereum Meets Wall Street: JPMorgan Rolls Out Tokenized Fund Numbers And Forecasts Not everyone shares the same optimism. Several firms mentioned by community members put much lower targets on XRP, with conservative models forecasting prices under $30 by 2030. Other professional models place $100 XRP well beyond the next decade. Traders and investors are left to weigh three competing threads: legal clarity, technical capacity, and whether escrowed holdings will be used for institutional flows rather than sold. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
The Bitcoin and Ethereum prices are down today as the crypto market remains in a phase of extreme fear. This latest crash came amid BlackRock’s move, which sparked fear of a sell-off from the world’s largest asset manager. The Bitcoin and Ethereum prices are down today following BlackRock’s transfer of 2,257 BTC and 74,973 ETH to Coinbase, indicating plans to offload these coins. Notably, the BTC and ETH ETFs recorded outflows on December 16, likely why the asset manager moved these coins to redeem shares for its IBIT and ETHA ETFs, which were sold that day. Bitcoin and Ethereum Prices Decline Amid BlackRock’s Transfer These Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs have continued to record mixed flows, which have partly contributed to declines in BTC and ETH prices. Notably, the Bitcoin price had surged to around $90,000 yesterday from an intraday low of around $87,000, before retracing below $87,000 about an hour later. This immediately sparked theories of manipulation, with some crypto pundits revealing that BlackRock wasn’t the only one selling. Related Reading: The Bearish Structure That Puts Bitcoin Price At $92,550, And Then $82,000 Crypto pundit Kruse claimed that Binance first bought nonstop for over 30 minutes to pump the price, then started dumping millions of BTC and ETH to liquidate longs. He noted that the Bitcoin price pumped about $3,300 in 30 minutes, with $106 million in shorts wiped out during that period. Following that, BTC printed another volatile hourly candle to the downside, which flushed out $52 million in longs. A similar price action had also played out for the Ethereum price. Kruse declared that this wasn’t random volatility but rather liquidity hunting. The pundit further warned that this is how leverage gets punished in crypto. He then reiterated that the volatile Bitcoin and Ethereum price actions weren’t random, indicating the market is being manipulated. Onchain Sleuth Tracer also accused Binance of being responsible for the Bitcoin and Ethereum price declines. He claimed that the crypto exchange pumped and dumped millions of BTC to liquidate traders, with $194 million in shorts and longs liquidated in one hour. BTC And ETH To Hit New All-Time Highs Next Year? Crypto asset manager Bitwise has predicted that the Bitcoin price will break the four-year cycle and set new all-time highs in 2026. The asset manager alluded to factors such as the Bitcoin halving and interest rate cycles as what will drive this rally for the flagship crypto. The firm also remarked that crypto booms and busts fueled by leverage are weaker than in past cycles. Related Reading: Ethereum 2-Year Trend Maps Out This Unique Crash Path To Bottom At $2,187 Bitwise also stated that institutions are likely to allocate more to Bitcoin ETFs, which is why they expect the Bitcoin price to reach new all-time highs next year. Furthermore, the firm noted that the pro-crypto regulatory shift will continue to allow companies to adopt crypto at a faster rate. The crypto asset manager also predicted that the Ethereum price could reach a new all-time high if the CLARITY Act passes. Featured image from iStock, chart from Tradingview.com
The narrative surrounding XRP, the digital asset native to the XRP Ledger, has shifted from a speculative cryptocurrency to a recognized digital asset within the global financial system. This shift reflects growing legal clarity and rising interest from financial institutions seeking compliant blockchain-based solutions for payments, liquidity, and settlement. How Institutional Interest In XRP Continues To Build As XRP gains recognition in regulated financial markets, it’s moving beyond its earlier perception as a speculative digital asset. An analyst known as Skipper_xrp has mentioned on X that this milestone has placed XRP in the conversation alongside traditional assets that institutions already trust. With recent developments from the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and rising institutional interest, investors are wondering whether XRP’s growing credibility could be the catalyst for the next major price movement. Related Reading: Not Just Crypto: Research Says XRP Is Moving Into Bank-Grade Payment Infrastructure Meanwhile, tokenization is no longer a theoretical concept; it’s now a tangible reality. The ability to unlock trillions of dollars in real-world assets through blockchain is transforming how the markets will operate. On this front, the REAL token on the XRP Ledger isn’t just participating, it’s leading the change, and opening doors to an unprecedented global market. Ripple recently made the single biggest unlock for XRP since the case against the US SEC, and it has nothing to do with a court ruling. X Finance Bull has provided insight into the CLARITY Act, which legally defines digital commodities under CFTC oversight, eliminating guesswork and excuses from institutions. The real barrier to mass XRP adoption wasn’t tech or liquidity, but a legal risk, and that wall just cracked wide open. Currently, banks can use XRP rails, brokers can move in flow, and corporate treasuries can hold XRP on their books without stepping into uncertainty. This isn’t future potential; it’s the regulatory permission that is required before deploying serious capital. Many tokens don’t fit the mold, but XRP already operates on payment-grade, bank-ready infrastructure designed for real-world settlement, and first in line for real volume. “When institutions get the green light, the token with roads already built will lead,” Xfinancebull noted. A New Gateway Between Asian Markets And Ripple Labs Technical analyst, ChartNerd, revealed that VivoPower International PLC has quietly transformed a standard joint venture agreement into a strategic expansion vehicle with asymmetric exposure. Instead of deploying heavy capital, the structure creates a bridge between Seoul’s institutional crypto markets and Ripple Labs’ private equity, which is aligning with access rather than ownership. Related Reading: Fed Turns On The Liquidity Hose, XRP Ready To Ignite, Investor Claims ChartNerd stated that the play is targeting $300 million in Ripple Lab shares. Furthermore, VivoPower has a capital-light model that delivers substantial upside while minimizing corporate risk. Featured image from Peakpx, chart from Tradingview.com
XRP is once again making headlines after a top crypto research firm issued a bold forecast, declaring it “the fastest horse” on the next bull market rally. The statement has reignited enthusiasm across the XRP community, with many investors and traders agreeing despite the token’s history of volatility and past declines. Sistine Research Sees Major Shift For XRP Market analysis platform Sistine Research has shared its outlook on X social media, saying XRP is the best-looking major digital asset in the current market cycle. The firm described XRP as the fastest mover following recent government developments that are expected to reshape the interaction between digital assets and traditional finance. Related Reading: Analyst Says 300% XRP Price Rally To $10 Is Fair, Here’s Why Sistine Research believes that several upcoming events could heavily favour XRP in the long run. Among them are a potential banking charter approval for Ripple, the introduction of the CLARITY Act, and the possibility of XRP Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). The research firm has revealed that these key developments would give Ripple a stronger foothold in global finance and expand XRP’s use case in payments and banking. In a subsequent post, Sistine Research went even further, suggesting that Ripple could soon become a fully licensed bank. The post warned that some people might downplay this milestone, but emphasized that it would be a very bullish sign for the XRP price. Such recognition and the ensuing adoption could make XRP one of the first digital assets, other than stablecoins, deeply connected to global banking infrastructure, setting it apart from other major cryptocurrencies. Related Reading: Rare Chart Formation That Led To An 87% XRP Price Crash Has Resurfaced Notably, Sistine Research’s outlook on XRP aligns with Ripple’s long-term vision of bridging the gap between blockchain technology and traditional finance through the use of digital assets. With regulatory clarity achieved following the resolution of its legal battle with the US SEC, XRP now faces fewer obstacles to growth and development as it continues to solidify its role in the rapidly evolving crypto and financial landscape. Analyst Charts XRP’s Bullish Path To $2.7 The price of XRP is currently at $2.5, having experienced a slight recovery after weeks of choppy action and volatility. Crypto analyst Kamran Asghar has reinforced his optimistic forecast with his latest technical breakdown on X. He noted that XRP has broken out of a symmetrical triangle pattern and surged to about $2.5. He described this as a strong move that suggests that the cryptocurrency is “reloading” for the next phase of its bull rally. According to Asghar’s TradingView chart, the key support zone lies near $2.35. He expects a short pullback to that level before another leg higher. This implies that XRP could see a temporary 6% decline from current levels. Subsequently, if support holds, Asghar predicts a confirmed rally toward $2.7, representing an almost 15% price increase and marking the next resistance area for XRP. Featured image from Adobe Stock, chart from Tradingview.com
Crypto analyst Arthur has predicted that the XRP price is preparing to decouple from Bitcoin (BTC). For years, XRP’s price movements have mirrored those of BTC, but according to Arthur, the market is evolving in ways that could soon set XRP apart. The emergence of Ripple’s new institutional brokerage platform and recent acquisitions, alongside the growing strength of its associated stablecoin, are key drivers that the analyst believes could drive this separation. XRP Price Set To Break Away From Bitcoin Arthur’s recent thread shared on X social media paints a confident picture of XRP’s future. He argues that the cryptocurrency is starting to chart its own course, breaking away from Bitcoin’s influence. Traditionally, XRP’s price has followed BTC’s overall direction and trajectory, rising and falling in tandem with the broader altcoin market. Related Reading: Why This Analyst Is More Bullish On XRP Over Ethereum For The Short-Term However, Arthur believes that the latest developments surrounding Ripple, a crypto payments company, could significantly change this dynamic. He points to Ripple Prime as the biggest factor that could drive this shift. Notably, Ripple Prime is a digital asset spot prime brokerage that Ripple recently launched following its acquisition of Hidden Road. The brokerage platform offers OTC spot trading, Foreign Exchange (FX), derivatives, and swaps, all seamlessly integrated with XRP and RLUSD, Ripple’s regulated stablecoin. By offering Wall Street a means to enter the blockchain finance market, Arthur contends that Ripple Prime could redefine how institutions view digital assets like XRP. Instead of being swayed by broader market sentiment, this institutional demand from Ripple’s new brokerage platform and ongoing developments could drive XRP’s value based on measurable utility. Additionally, it could finally establish the cryptocurrency as a standalone asset rather than one that constantly tracks Bitcoin’s movements. In his analysis, Arthur frames Bitcoin as a speculative digital asset, while XRP is viewed as a form of financial infrastructure. He explains that this is a crucial distinction considering infrastructure assets are typically driven by real-world adoption and utility, rather than “hype cycles.” With RLUSD surpassing a $1 billion market cap just a year after its launch, the analyst maintains that Ripple has established a stable and transparent institutional framework that effectively balances liquidity and compliance. Through this setup, RLUSD provides price stability, while XRP offers transaction liquidity, creating a financial ecosystem designed for real-world use, which is ideal for driving price growth. Regulation And Utility Shifts To Redefine XRP’s Identity Arthur expands on his analysis by connecting Ripple’s recent developments to a broader picture. He explains that institutions using Ripple Prime to settle payments with XRP and RLUSD are driven by different incentives. They do not care about Bitcoin and are not chasing speculative gains like typical crypto traders, but prioritize efficiency, regulation, and liquidity. Related Reading: Analyst Shares Why He Bought A Massive Stack Of XRP, ‘It’s Not A Gamble’ He also highlighted the potential impact of the upcoming CLARITY Act in the US. If passed, the analyst says that the bill could reclassify XRP as a commodity, moving it away from the “crypto basket” and placing it in the same regulatory category as assets like gold. Through this combination of legal clarity, stablecoin integration, asset class change, and subsequent institutional demand, Arthur says that XRP’s price will gradually decouple from Bitcoin. Featured image from Freepik, chart from Tradingview.com
In a shocking flash surge that stunned traders worldwide, XRP’s price briefly skyrocketed to unprecedented heights on several major exchanges before rapidly collapsing back to its previous levels within seconds. The extraordinary spike triggered a wave of confusion across the crypto community, prompting questions about data integrity, liquidity anomalies, and possible faults in exchange systems. How The Event quickly spread And Was interpreted online The digital asset world was set ablaze recently when XRP inexplicably surged to an astonishing $9,800 across multiple exchanges for several seconds. According to KingXRP’s post on X, many experts believe that this was a test run for XRP’s upcoming role as a global reserve currency. Related Reading: XRP’s 100 Billion Supply Is By Design – Insider Reveals Why KingXRP noted that the $650 trillion global real estate market is actively preparing for mass tokenization on the XRP Ledger through the RealFi platform, powered by the real token. While REAL is currently trading at $0.03, analysts in the community are projecting that the token could rapidly surge to $176.99, especially once major Centralized Exchange (CEX) listings go live. KingXRP concluded that a massive supply shock may be imminent. Crypto analyst Skipper_xrp has emphasized that a former central banker and regulator, Marius Jurgilas, believes that XRP Ledger (XRPL) is setting the stage for massive-scale institutional investment inflows, potentially worth trillions. According to the expert, the focus is on utility, not speculation. This is a new era project of open and people-powered journalism with the BXE token, which is set to launch on a centralized exchange on November 14th. This BXE token powers a decentralized media platform built directly on the XRP Ledger, and it’s now live with an impressive fleet of 104+ authors and over 300 articles. Currently, BXE is trading at a humble $0.07, while analysts are forecasting a monumental jump to $19 and even $24. Why Utility Chains Will Outlast The Speculative Cycle An analyst known as the unknowDLT has also mentioned that Brad Garlinghouse stated a few days ago that we are officially closing the era of speculation and transitioning into the era of utility. At the core of this impending paradigm is XRP. The altcoin has been building foundational relationships, positioning itself at the center of this change, and engaging with regulators from day one. Related Reading: Financial Analyst Reveals How XRP Will Bridge Physical And Digital Value However, the imminent impact of the Clarity Act will relegate a staggering 99% of projects to values bordering on zero. It is no coincidence that this current speculative bull run feels profoundly different from previous ones. Meanwhile, Rosie Rios, the former US Treasurer and figure who literally signed the fiat currency of the old world, knows the role XRP is designed to play in the new financial system. Featured image from Freepik, chart from Tradingview.com
Mike Novogratz, CEO of Galaxy Digital, warned that Bitcoin reaching $250,000 by year-end would take “a heck of a lot of crazy stuff,” putting a big question mark over some of the bolder market forecasts. Related Reading: All It Took Was A Tweet: FLOKI Jumps 27% After Musk Mentions It According to his remarks, the more likely outcome is that Bitcoin holds near current levels unless major new forces push prices much higher. Novogratz Sets A Realistic Range Based on reports, Novogratz suggested a year-end range of roughly $100,000 to $125,000 for Bitcoin under normal market conditions. At the time of his comment Bitcoin traded around $107,000, meaning a move to $250,000 would require roughly a 130% rise in a matter of weeks. That kind of jump is possible, he said, but it would demand events far outside ordinary market behavior. What Would Need To Happen Reports have disclosed two main scenarios that could create the type of momentum needed for a run to $250,000. One involves US President Donald Trump exerting pressure on the Federal Reserve in a way that shifts macro policy and boosts risk assets. The other key trigger would be swift passage of a major market structure bill for crypto — commonly referred to in discussions as the CLARITY Act — which could open the door to a surge in institutional demand. Both are uncertain and would have to line up quickly for the price to triple-plus in weeks. Market Context And On-Chain Signals On-chain data and recent price action add weight to Novogratz’s caution. Analysts tracking flows, supply, and holder behavior have pointed to a period of profit-taking and slower buying. Glassnode and other trackers show signs of consolidation. In plain terms: long-term holders are selling some coins and new buyers have not yet overwhelmed sellers. Unless large new inflows appear, price momentum is likely to be limited. Related Reading: Bitcoin Whale Goes Big — $255M Longs Opened Before Trump–China Summit Bitcoin: Technical Thresholds To Watch Analysts are watching $125,000 as a key resistance level. A decisive move above that figure could change the math and encourage more buying. Conversely, a sustained hold near the low six-figure range would fit Novogratz’s base case. Spot Bitcoin ETF flows and big institutional purchases are the clearest possible catalysts that could tilt sentiment higher. According to market observers, investors should not assume rapid gains will occur simply because headlines mention big targets. The math is clear: moving from roughly $107,000 to $250,000 in about 10–11 weeks requires mass buying that has not yet appeared. Featured image from Gemini, chart from TradingView
The House bill to regulate U.S. crypto was a big win for the industry, but it's the current Senate effort that's likely to be the one that rules the sector.