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JPMorgan Chase & Co. is considering offering cryptocurrency trading services to its institutional clients, based on reports from Bloomberg and Reuters. The move is reported to be in early stages and has not been confirmed by the bank. Related Reading: Bitcoin’s $126K Sprint May Be Over — Fidelity Predicts 2026 Slide Institutional Demand And Product Options Reports have disclosed that the bank is looking at a range of possible offerings, including spot trades and derivatives, as it tests whether client demand justifies a rollout. Decisions will depend on risk assessments and the regulatory environment, sources say. Banks Respond To A Shifting Market Wall Street is already moving closer to crypto. Morgan Stanley, for example, plans to make crypto trading available on its E*Trade platform by mid-2026, a step that shows firms are racing to meet investor interest. The global crypto market is estimated to be about $3.1 trillion, with Bitcoin close to $1.8 trillion of that total, according to market data cited by reporters. JPMorgan Chase reportedly plans launching crypto trading services for institutional clients. https://t.co/Ggj0bOxcUc — TheStreet (@TheStreet) December 22, 2025 Plans To Start Without Custody Several industry reports say JPMorgan may initially focus on executing trades rather than holding clients’ tokens — that is, the firm would facilitate transactions but not provide custody services at first. That approach would let the bank offer access while limiting direct exposure. Banking History And Changing Views JPMorgan’s public position on crypto has shifted over time. Its CEO was once highly critical of Bitcoin, yet the firm has been testing blockchain and tokenization projects in recent years. The broader policy climate has also turned more favorable: US President Donald Trump has taken a stance seen by some observers as supportive of crypto, and that has affected industry calculations. What This Would Mean For Clients If JPMorgan moves ahead, clients could gain access to bank-grade execution for Bitcoin and other tokens, potentially with institutional custodians or third-party safekeeping used where needed. Market makers and asset managers would likely react quickly; liquidity could increase, and trading costs might shift. Those outcomes would depend on the exact products launched and on regulatory guardrails. Collateral And Tokenization Moves Earlier This Year The bank has already taken other crypto steps. In October, Bloomberg reported that JPMorgan planned to allow institutional clients to use Bitcoin and Ether as collateral for loans by the end of the year, a sign that the firm is testing ways to bring crypto into traditional banking functions. Related Reading: Saylor Sparks Bitcoin Speculation With ‘Green Dots’ Signal Bitcoin Price Reaction Traders reacted positively to the news of JPMorgan exploring crypto trading, sending Bitcoin briefly higher into the $88,000–$90,000 range. While the price didn’t break past $90,000 decisively, the announcement added support near existing resistance levels and boosted market sentiment. Analysts note that any lasting price impact will depend on whether JPMorgan actually launches trading services and how US regulators respond, but for now, the story has reinforced optimism among institutional and retail investors alike. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

The crypto market in 2025 looked nothing like it did in 2021. No parabolic rallies, no Reddit threads going vertical, no NFT floor prices exploding, Google Trends stayed quiet. Instead, the dominant crypto narrative of 2025 was written in 13F filings, custody agreements, and tokenized Treasury flows. BlackRock's spot Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) held 776,100 BTC […]
The post Bitcoin’s market “plumbing” is now owned by these major banks that are controlling the price action appeared first on CryptoSlate.

There’s been a major shift in profitability since the Bitcoin price crashed from $126,000, and altcoins have borne the brunt of it. With major altcoins down between 30% and 80% from their all-time high values, calls for an altcoin season have gone down drastically. This has been reflected in the performance of the Altcoin Season Index, falling to one of the lowest recorded levels in 2025 as the year draws to an end. Altcoin Season Index Says Losses Are The Order Of The Day The Altcoin Season Index Chart on the CoinMarketCap website, which tracks the performance of altcoins against Bitcoin, has now fallen below 20 again. This index collates the performance of the top 100 altcoins in the market, comparing their 90-day performance to that of Bitcoin, in order to pinpoint whether the market is currently experiencing an altcoin season. Related Reading: Bitcoin Price Remains Stuck Inside This Range, But A Breakout Could Follow The index ranks the performance on a scale of 1-100, depending on how many altcoins out of the top 100 are outperforming Bitcoin, and uses that to score the market. At the time of writing, the Altcoin Season Index was sitting at a score of 17, which means only 17 of the top 100 altcoins have seen a better performance than Bitcoin in the last 90 days. With the index’s score sitting this low, it suggests that altcoins are currently in a bear market. Additionally, Ethereum, which is often the altcoin leader when it comes to an alt season, is still underperforming compared to Bitcoin. The second-largest cryptocurrency has recorded a 28.30% decrease in the last 90 days, while Bitcoin is down 21.10% in comparison. How To Know If Altcoins Are In A Bull Run? To know if the altcoin market is experiencing an altcoin season, the index would have to read at a score of 75 or higher. This is when the majority of altcoins are outperforming Bitcoin in a 3-month period, and their combined market cap surpasses that of the leading cryptocurrency. Related Reading: Pundit Shares Why XRP Will Become Expensive And A $1,000 Price Tag Is Possible Scores lower than 75 suggest that the market is yet to enter a full-blown altcoin season, and the lower it goes, the higher the chances that altcoins are experiencing a bear market. However, the higher the Altcoin Season Index score is, nearing 100, the more likely it is that the altcoin market may be experiencing a top. Altcoin seasons are often characterized by rapid increases in price, with 100% rallies on a daily basis being the norm. The last major altcoin season was back in 2021, and while the expectation was that another altcoin season would begin in 2025, this has not been the case. Featured image from Dall.E, chart from TradingView.com

XRP, currently the fifth-largest cryptocurrency in the market, has mirrored the overall performance of digital assets over the past months, experiencing a significant retracement of nearly 50% from its all-time high of $3.65 earlier this year.  Amid this volatility, a new artificial intelligence (AI) simulation model has produced price forecasts for the altcoin, offering investors a more detailed outlook for the coming year. XRP Price Predictions Market analyst Sam Daodu recently shared insights from a Monte Carlo simulation that explored XRP’s price trajectory in which 10,000 paths were generated to capture a comprehensive range of potential outcomes.  The results offer statistical data such as mean, median, and percentiles, illustrating a probability distribution rather than relying on a single forecast. Daodu reported that the simulation results reveal a spectrum of outcomes for XRP. The mean price across all 10,000 paths stands at approximately $2.78, indicating that, on average, the price is higher than its current levels.  Related Reading: Dogecoin Weekly Fractal Hints At A Bigger Move Brewing In contrast, the median price is $1.88, suggesting that half of the estimated outcomes fall below the $2 mark. This disparity between the mean and median highlights the skew in the distribution, where a few high projections inflate the average, while the median reflects where most scenarios likely land. To identify a more probable pricing range, Daodu considered the 25th and 75th percentiles, which represent the central 50% of outcomes. According to the simulation, 25% of scenarios estimate XRP’s price below $1.04, while 75% indicate a price below $3.40.  Notably, about 60% of scenarios position XRP’s price between $1.04 and $3.40 by the end of 2026, with an expected median hovering around $1.88. 10% Chance Of Dropping Below $0.59  The analysis also highlights the upper tail of the distribution, where the best-case outcomes sit. The 90th percentile indicates a price of about $5.90, meaning that roughly 10% of scenarios project end-of-year prices above this threshold.  The expert asserts that achieving new all-time highs near $6 would require several positive developments, including sustained institutional inflows through exchange-traded funds (ETFs) of over $50 million daily throughout 2026, increased actual usage of XRP for cross-border payments by banks, and persistent regulatory clarity without major setbacks.  Related Reading: Bitcoin Price Remains Stuck Inside This Range, But A Breakout Could Follow On the other hand, the simulation doesn’t shy away from discussing downside risks. The lower 10% of outcomes reveal a potential drop below $0.59, suggesting a worrying 10% probability that XRP could lose more than 70% of its current value by 2026.  Factors contributing to this bearish outlook could include regulatory setbacks, such as tougher restrictions on cryptocurrency custody or complications arising from recent settlements with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).  Additionally, Daodu believes that decreased investor confidence in the altcoin resulting from unmet expectations related to XRP’s utility adoption could further depress prices.  According to CoinGecko data, XRP is trading within the range expected to last till next year at $1.90, with a 2% drop in the 24-hour period. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com 

In the wake of a significant shift in crypto regulation spurred by the new White House administration under President Donald Trump, lawmakers are working on a fresh tax framework aimed at providing clarity and a safe harbor for certain transactions involving stablecoins.  Proposed Crypto Tax Framework Representatives Max Miller from Ohio and Steven Horsford from Nevada have drafted a preliminary proposal that seeks to align the tax treatment of cryptocurrencies with that of traditional securities.  According to a recent report by Bloomberg, the draft consists of a blend of policy objectives and bill language not yet formally approved. Related Reading: Pundit Shares Why XRP Will Become Expensive And A $1,000 Price Tag Is Possible One of the key features of this draft legislation is its aim to exempt capital gains tax for transactions involving regulated stablecoins. Specifically, the proposal proposes to shield transactions that consistently maintain a value between $0.99 and $1.01 from taxation.  However, this exemption is limited to transactions under $200, and the final text may modify which tokens will qualify for this safe harbor, as advised by aides to both congressmen. The proposal also attempts to establish safe harbors for rewards earned through activities like staking, which involves verifying blockchain transactions.  Representative Miller emphasized that “America’s tax code has failed to keep pace with modern financial technology.” He described the bipartisan bill as a means to inject clarity, fairness, and common sense into the taxation of digital assets. The proposed draft also addresses the taxation of rewards earned through staking and mining cryptocurrencies, which involves verifying transactions within blockchain networks. Aligning Digital Assets With Securities Tax Regime Under guidance from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued during the Biden administration, rewards obtained from staking are taxed at the time of receipt.  Republican lawmakers have voiced concerns regarding this approach, arguing that it taxes assets before owners realize a gain. Conversely, Democrats maintain that these rewards should be classified as compensation and taxed upon receipt. To navigate this divide, Miller and Horsford aim to find a compromise, allowing taxpayers to defer tax on rewards for up to five years. After this period, the rewards would be taxed as income based on their fair market value.  Pro-crypto Senator Cynthia Lummis, who recently announced that she will not be running for re-election next year, had previously introduced crypto tax legislation that would leave such rewards untaxed until they are sold. This legislation would align more closely with industry preferences. Related Reading: Saylor Sparks Bitcoin Speculation With ‘Green Dots’ Signal Additionally, the draft aims to bring digital assets under the same tax regime that governs securities and, in some cases, commodities transactions.  It proposes to include cryptocurrencies in capital gains tax exemptions for foreign investors trading securities through US-based intermediaries like brokers or exchanges.  Furthermore, the plan would permit cryptocurrency traders to utilize mark-to-market accounting, allowing them to recognize unrealized gains and losses based on fair market value at the end of each year.  The proposed legislation also seeks to impose restrictions on deducting losses from wash trades for digital assets and “close existing loopholes” that facilitate transactions designed to lock in cryptocurrency gains while postponing the associated tax liability. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com 

Michael Saylor’s brief post on X that showed “green dots” ahead of orange dots has stirred fresh talk in markets. According to traders who track his public messages, the pattern is being read as a possible hint that more Bitcoin buying could be on the way. Related Reading: Bitcoin’s $126K Sprint May Be Over — Fidelity Predicts 2026 Slide Bitcoin is trading just below a heavy resistance band around $90,000, a level where selling pressure has built up and where traders and market desks are closely watching for either a breakout or another rejection. Market Reaction And Signals Prices moved on the rumor alone. Short-term traders bought into the idea that a large buyer may be shifting action back toward accumulation. Based on reports, some market participants compared the signal to earlier Saylor posts that preceded corporate purchases. Green Dots ₿eget Orange Dots. pic.twitter.com/aLdvPe4YuG — Michael Saylor (@saylor) December 21, 2025 No official company filing or treasury update has been released to confirm any new acquisition. The message was posted without any accompanying press release, and that lack of confirmation kept some desks cautious. Institutional Demand And On-Chain Clues Reports have disclosed that institutional flows still matter to Bitcoin’s price path. Large spot Bitcoin ETFs and corporate treasuries are part of the backdrop that traders cite when interpreting a high-profile hint from a corporate figure. On-chain metrics, where available, are being scanned for coin movements into custody accounts. One key piece of evidence that would change market conviction is a clear transfer into an exchange or ETF custody wallet, followed by a public disclosure; absent that, the green-dot post remains a market signal more than a proof point. What Traders Are Watching Liquidity sits near $90,000. Many orders cluster around that level, and that makes it a psychological and technical barrier. If a big buyer steps in under the wall, sellers may be cleared and price could push higher. If selling stays firm, BTC could stall and move sideways for several sessions. Traders are also watching order books, funding rates, and ETF balances for shifts. Volume spikes paired with visible custody inflows would be a stronger signal than a social post alone. Related Reading: Banks Could Favor A Higher XRP Price, Finance Expert Says History And Context Michael Saylor is a visible buyer historically, and his public comments have affected sentiment before. Reports linking his posts to later buys have circulated in market media, and traders use that history to give the current message weight. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

The deal follows Coinbase’s recent rollout of prediction markets on its platform and is expected to close in January.

Three entities — Upshift, Clearstar, and Flare — have jointly launched earnXRP, a new product that allows users to earn yield denominated in XRP.

Fidelity’s top markets strategist has warned that Bitcoin’s October high of $126,000 could mark the top of the current cycle, and investors should be ready for a rough ride in 2026. Related Reading: Banks Could Favor A Higher XRP Price, Finance Expert Says According to Jurrien Timmer, a notable pullback is possible next year with key support seen in a range of $65,000 to $75,000. That view sits alongside data points and trader commentary that recall past big drops after sharp peaks. Cycle Warning From Fidelity Timmer said Bitcoin’s price history follows a roughly four-year rhythm tied to halvings. Past peaks have been followed by steep corrections of about 70 to 85%. For example, after a high of $1,137 in 2013 the price slipped to roughly $230, and the 2017 peak near $14,050 later traded down toward $3,415. Prices surged again after 2021, and that pattern of parabolic advance then sharp retreat has been repeated. Some traders say those falls are tests of patience rather than a sign the story is broken. Fidelity Warns: #Bitcoin Cycle Peak May Already Be In Fidelity’s Jurrien Timmer believes the $126K October high was the top for this cycle. Based on $BTC 4-year halving pattern, He expects 2026 to be a down year, with support around $65K–$75K. Short-Term Pain, Long-Term… pic.twitter.com/t9wNeF5lTo — Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) December 21, 2025 Historical Charts Show Parabolic Moves Reports have disclosed that long-term log charts help put these swings in perspective by showing percentage growth across cycles, which can make big-dollar moves easier to read. Market action often looks like a rapid climb to a peak, a quick drop, and a long period where prices move sideways and gains feel slow. Those sideways stretches are where many long-term holders are rewarded, though it can take years. BTC will hit $250k by year-end 2027. 2026 is too chaotic to predict, though Bitcoin making new all-time highs in 2026 is still possible. Options markets are currently pricing about equal odds of $70k or $130k for month-end June 2026, and equal odds of $50k or $250k by year-end… — Alex Thorn (@intangiblecoins) December 21, 2025 Galaxy Research has flagged overlapping macro and market risks that make forecasting harder for 2026, and options and volatility trends suggest Bitcoin is behaving more like a macro asset than a pure growth gamble. Galaxy Research is still bullish on a multi-year view and projects a path toward $250,000 by the end of 2027. First Quarter Patterns May Matter Related Reading: Before You Sell Bitcoin For Gold, Hear This Warning Based on reports from traders, the first quarter has in past cycles been a period that often supports price stability, although recent years have shown less regularity. Large inflows and treasury buys that could arrive in 2025 might be offset by early-cycle selling from big holders. The balance between institutional demand and whale supply will likely show itself in the first half of 2026, making that stretch important for whether historical four-year rhythms hold firm. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

Bitcoin supporters are warning holders not to rush out of BTC to buy gold even as the metal climbs above $4,000 per ounce. According to market educator Matthew Kratter, Bitcoin’s features — like ease of transfer, clear supply rules, and divisibility — make it a stronger long-term store of value than gold. Related Reading: Bitcoin Feels The Weight Of Quantum Risk Concerns, Industry Leaders Warn Gold Supply Concerns Kratter points to steady increases in the gold supply, estimating it has risen about 1-to-2% annually for decades. Based on that rate, supplies would double roughly every 47 years. That steady growth, he says, can be amplified by large new finds — on land or, he adds, potentially beyond Earth — which could flood markets and push prices down after a surge. Reports have disclosed that sudden inflows of precious metal have reshaped economies before, citing how the arrival of New World gold into Europe in the 1500s contributed to major inflation and the collapse of Spain’s power. Gold’s Practical Limits The physical nature of gold creates limits in a world that moves value over networks. Moving large amounts is costly and risky. Kratter has argued that tokenized gold — digital tokens claiming to represent physical reserves — brings back counterparty risk: issuers might mint more tokens than they hold, refuse redemption, or see reserves seized. Based on reports from market watchers, these concerns have pushed some buyers toward assets that are easier to move or verify over the internet. Industrial Metals Catch Up Reports have disclosed that industrial metals also posted huge gains in 2025, a year when copper, lithium, aluminum, and steel ran as strong as gold in many markets. Demand from AI data centers, electric vehicles, and clean-energy projects has pushed consumption higher. Supply hiccups — like mine outages and stretched inventories — tightened markets at the same time. That mix of stronger demand and shakier supply has helped lift prices across the board. Tariffs And Trading Rushes Trade policy has added more heat. US President Donald Trump’s announcements of 50% tariffs on certain copper, steel, and aluminum products prompted traders and buyers to rush shipments and stockpile supplies. BTCUSD trading at $87,915 on the 24-hour chart: TradingView That front-loading behavior briefly drained available inventories and sent prices swinging. Traders told reporters that even short-term tariff threats can cause big moves because firms try to avoid future costs by buying early. Where Bitcoin Fits In The debate between gold and Bitcoin is still active. Bitcoin proponents highlight scarcity — the fixed BTC supply rule — and speed of transfer. Gold advocates contend that gold has centuries of use as money and that Bitcoin’s volatility remains a hurdle for some investors. Related Reading: Banks Could Favor A Higher XRP Price, Finance Expert Says The industrial metals rally adds a third thread: these materials are tied to real economic activity, not just safe-haven flows. Analysts say investors should weigh different risks. Gold can act as a hedge in turbulent times, but steady mine output and big discoveries can change its long-term math. Industrial metals may keep rising if energy and tech demand holds. And Bitcoin’s supporters argue its digital traits make it better suited to a world that values fast, verifiable transfers. Featured image from Gemini, chart from TradingView

According to reports, Fundstrat analysts are sending mixed signals about Bitcoin’s path in 2026. One line of work inside the firm sees a noticeable pullback early next year, while another predicts new highs arriving soon after. Related Reading: XRP ETFs Grow Past $60M As Price Struggles To Respond Sean Farrell, Fundstrat’s head of digital asset strategy, is reported to have told clients that a “base case” would see Bitcoin move down toward the $60,000–$65,000 range in the first half of 2026. The same internal material attributes fallbacks for other major tokens — ETH toward about $1.8K–$2K and SOL near $50–$75 — which were framed as potential buying opportunities should markets correct. Risk Models And Shorter Time Horizons Farrell’s note, which has circulated as screenshots on social media and among clients, stresses risk management and the possibility of a meaningful drawdown before any sustained rally. Fundstrat’s head of digital asset strategy, Sean Farrell, says $BTC to $60k as base case, 1H 2026. Fundstrat’s head, Tom Lee, says $BTC to ATH’s, even up to $200k, by end of Jan 2026. Is this normal for funds to contradict each other within? Honest question. pic.twitter.com/KETNygLEtu — Heisenberg (@Mr_Derivatives) December 20, 2025 The language in those client slides points to cautious positioning and to taking advantage of lower price levels if they arrive. Tom Lee’s Bullish Outlook Remains Publicly Strong By contrast, Tom Lee — Fundstrat’s co-founder and a longstanding voice on Bitcoin — has publicly said he expects new all-time highs in early 2026, with some media summaries quoting optimistic ranges as high as $200,000 by late January 2026. Well stated @ConvexDispatch ???? https://t.co/8kWrgcl6ml — Thomas (Tom) Lee (not drummer) FSInsight.com (@fundstrat) December 20, 2025 He has emphasized macro drivers, institutional flows, and cycle dynamics as reasons for continued upside in the coming months. Different Roles, Different Time Frames Reports have disclosed that the two views reflect different analytical roles inside the firm: one focused on portfolio-level downside planning and the other on longer-term macro scenarios. Several clients and observers on X (formerly Twitter) have pushed back on the idea that these are contradictory; instead, they say the notes reflect distinct mandates and time frames. Market Reaction and What Investors Are Hearing Now Markets reacted to the story with a mix of skepticism and quick profit-taking. Some traders flagged how fast sentiment can change when internal notes leak, while others said the range of outcomes — from roughly $60,000 to $200,000 — only underlines how uncertain forecasts remain for 2026. Trading desks are reported to be treating the internal slides as one input among many, not as an official firm forecast. Related Reading: Banks Could Favor A Higher XRP Price, Finance Expert Says Public Takeaway According to the coverage, Fundstrat has not issued a unified, public forecast that collapses the two views into one number. Instead, clients and the market are being asked to weigh a downside scenario presented by the digital-assets team against a bullish macro scenario voiced by leadership. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

Bitcoin (BTC) investors may need to temper their expectations as the cryptocurrency heads into its final bull run. Analysts indicate that the bull rally could unfold slowly, suggesting a gradual climb to new highs. Traders are being urged to prepare for heightened volatility and plan their strategies carefully to protect gains while staying positioned for potential upside.  Slow Climb Expected In Bitcoin’s Final Bull Run  A market expert who calls himself Crypto Waterman has shared his latest outlook on Bitcoin’s final bull run. He expects the last leg of the rally to be a slow and deliberate process rather than a sudden spike. According to him, the parabolic move could take roughly one to two months to complete, potentially unfolding during the first quarter of 2026.   Related Reading: XRP ETFs Grow Past $60M As Price Struggles To Respond Crypto Waterman warns that before this final surge, there will likely be intense market pressure to push out inexperienced investors. This period could include sudden shakeouts and volatility designed to test retail traders’ resolve. He also stated that many investors may exit too early as euphoria builds, while others will become bag holders as prices climb rapidly.  The analyst emphasized that smart wallets and BTC whales tend to sell into strength during this phase. For average investors, he suggests a careful strategy of dollar-cost averaging out of positions once gains become significant. Observing coins doubling in a single day could be an early signal to start reducing exposure.  Crypto Waterman also shares his personal approach to profit-taking, which involves selling 25% of his holdings when the price doubles. If Bitcoin triples, he says that he would offload 30-40% and consider selling nearly everything if the market feels overheated. He also stated that he would leave a small portion, “a moonbag,” to capture any remaining upside potential.  Analyst Warns Last Chance To Accumulate BTC Crypto Waterman offers guidance for traders looking to position themselves ahead of Bitcoin’s anticipated parabolic move. He suggests that the next two to three weeks may be the last chance to accumulate Bitcoin before the rally begins. He also highlighted the importance of timing, recommending that investors buy Bitcoin during significant dips rather than chasing rising prices.  The analyst has hinted at knowing the timing of the expected market shakeout, emphasizing that market conditions over the coming days will determine the exact moment it happens. He warns that traders should prepare for volatility and short-term price fluctuations. He also reminds investors to stay disciplined during periods of market euphoria.  Related Reading: Bitcoin Feels The Weight Of Quantum Risk Concerns, Industry Leaders Warn He shared that investors and traders should follow the “Warren Buffett” principle of being cautious when others are greedy and opportunistic when others are fearful. This strategy eliminates emotional decision-making in trading and investing, allowing holders to make rational moves as the Bitcoin market approaches its final bull phase.  Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

Ethereum’s derivatives market is showing signs of a decisive shift beneath the surface, and price action is about to return above the $3,000 mark. On-chain data suggests trader behavior on major exchanges is shifting into a more accumulative phase. Even as ETH continues to linger below the psychologically important $3,000 price level, this metric indicates that market participants are already preparing for a bullish move and a test of direction in the days ahead. Related Reading: XRP ETFs Grow Past $60M As Price Struggles To Respond Ethereum Leverage Ratio Prints New All-Time High Data from on-chain analytics platform CryptoQuant shows that Ethereum’s Estimated Leverage Ratio on Binance has climbed to 0.611, the highest level ever recorded for this metric. The Estimated Leverage Ratio compares open interest to exchange reserves, and this offers insight into how much borrowed capital traders are deploying relative to available liquidity. Sustained increases in this ratio are a reflection of an increase in risk appetite from investors. It means that traders are committing larger leveraged positions in anticipation of favorable price movement. The current reading surpasses previous cycle peaks, and this environment can amplify price moves, since even modest spot price changes can trigger large liquidations when leverage is elevated. Ethereum: Estimated Leverage Ratio – Binance: CryptoQuant Another important metric points to an increase in Ethereum demand alongside record leverage. This metric is in the form of the Taker Buy Sell Ratio, which recently spiked to 1.13 on Binance. This is interesting because this level was last observed in September 2023. A reading above 1 indicates that market participants are executing more buy orders than sell orders. This combination of strong taker demand and rising leverage reveals optimism is now dominating short-term sentiment. The chart below shows the spikes in the Taker Buy Sell Ratio have more often than not coincided with periods of increased volatility. This buying pressure is now notable, with Ethereum trading around $2,900 in the past few hours, and this means that many traders are positioning ahead of a potential attempt to reclaim $3,000.  Ethereum: Taker Buy Sell Ratio – Binance. Source: CryptoQuant Analyst Maps Out Ethereum’s Path Back Above $3,000 Adding a price-based perspective to the on-chain signals, crypto analyst Ted Pillows has outlined a clear technical roadmap for Ethereum’s next move. According to his analysis, ETH recently tapped into an important demand zone between $2,700 and $2,800 and has started to rebound from that area. This move occurred when Ethereum broke below $3,000 again this week to reach a low of $2,781 on December 18, which is highlighted on the chart below as a major support band. Ethereum Price Chart. Source: @TedPillows On X Pillows noted that holding this support zone keeps the bullish structure intact. If buyers continue to defend the $2,700-$2,800 range, Ethereum could build enough momentum for a push to the $3,100 to $3,200 region. That zone also sits just above the psychologically important $3,000 level.  Related Reading: Bitcoin Feels The Weight Of Quantum Risk Concerns, Industry Leaders Warn The downside scenario is equally clear. A failure to hold the current support would expose Ethereum to a deeper pullback, with the chart pointing toward a potential retest of the $2,500 level. Featured image from Pexels, chart from TradingView

XRP has continued to trade lower as crypto prices weaken across the board, with the total market shedding more than $1.3 trillion since October. Related Reading: Bitcoin Feels The Weight Of Quantum Risk Concerns, Industry Leaders Warn During the past three months, XRP has dropped more than 30%, keeping pressure on sentiment even as some commentators argue the token’s purpose goes far beyond short-term price moves. Retail Vs. Institutional Viewpoint According to health and finance commentator Dr. Camila Stevenson, much of the debate around XRP misses how large financial players judge settlement tools. Everyday traders tend to focus on charts and quick exits. Banks do not. They look at whether a system can handle stress, move large sums, and keep working when conditions worsen. Stevenson compared it to infrastructure testing, where strength and capacity matter more than the initial cost. XRP Was Built For Flows Based on reports from her recent video discussion, XRP was structured to act as a bridge for moving value, not as a speculative chip. With a fixed supply, the token cannot expand in quantity to meet higher transaction demand. Stevenson said that leaves price as the only way to support larger volumes. Analyst XFinanceBull echoed this view, encouraging market watchers to think in terms of flows rather than daily price action. Price Alone Does Not Prove Use Even so, market behavior still plays a major role. XRP trades in open markets, and speculation continues to influence price direction. A higher price may improve efficiency, but it does not guarantee adoption. Stevenson pointed out that many institutions position through custodians, OTC desks, and private agreements. These transactions often happen quietly and may not show up as sharp moves on public charts. Sudden spikes during positioning, she warned, would suggest instability rather than healthy use. Why Higher Price Helps Stevenson argued that banks moving billions would rather use fewer units that each represent more value. Fewer tokens can mean simpler settlement and less risk of slippage during busy periods. Large financial systems tend to fail when money cannot move or when settlement slows, not when prices fall. In that context, a higher XRP price could support smoother transfers if volumes rise enough to test the system. Related Reading: XRP ETFs Grow Past $60M As Price Struggles To Respond Market Reality Remains Mixed Despite the theory, clear proof of large-scale institutional demand remains limited. Regulation, liquidity depth, and reliable access still shape whether banks commit real volume. XRP’s 33% slide over recent months shows how quickly sentiment can shift, even as long-term use cases are debated. The idea that banks prefer a higher XRP price rests on future scale, not current trading patterns. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView  

According to onchain data, Bitcoin may be moving into a different phase of market participation rather than simply hitting a classic cycle top or bottom. Related Reading: Bitcoin Feels The Weight Of Quantum Risk Concerns, Industry Leaders Warn New, large entrants are paying higher prices and holding on, and that change is reshaping where the network’s cost base sits. This is not just a short blip; the pattern has several clear data points behind it. New Whales Rewrite The Network Cost Base According to CryptoQuant figures, addresses classified as new whales now account for almost 50% of Bitcoin’s realized cap. Before 2025, that share rarely rose above 22%. Realized cap tracks the value of BTC at the price each coin last moved, so this shift shows where capital entered the system, not just who currently holds the most coins. Reports say the realized cap share from new whales continued to climb even during pullbacks, which suggests the network’s aggregate cost basis is being re-anchored at higher levels. Short-Term Demand Surges As Larger Players Buy Dips Short-term holder supply expanded by roughly 100,000 BTC over a 30-day span, reaching an all-time high, according to analysts. That jump in STH supply points to intense demand at the near-term level. Based on exchange flows, about 37% of BTC sent to Binance came from whale-size wallets, defined in the data set as holdings between 1,000–10,000 BTC. Reports from Hyblock show the cumulative volume delta for whale wallets — those in the $100,000–$10 million range — posted a positive $135 million delta this week. In contrast, retail wallets ($0–$10,000) and mid-size traders ($10,000–$100,000) logged negative deltas of $84 million and $172 million, respectively. In short: larger players absorbed selling pressure while smaller holders reduced their exposure. Related Reading: XRP ETFs Grow Past $60M As Price Struggles To Respond Derivatives Point To Short-Term Risk Price action was sharp. Bitcoin rose to $88,000 from $85,100 in about five hours after the Bank of Japan raised rates, a move that many investors had tracked as a potential macro trigger. Open interest climbed faster than the price, and funding rates turned positive, which indicates fresh margin-driven long positions were being added rather than a simple cover of shorts. That kind of flows pattern raises the chance of volatile reversals if sentiment shifts, even when spot demand looks healthy. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

The Solana price has shown encouraging signs of recovery, climbing 6% on Friday to approach the $126 mark. This uptick follows a concerning dip below the crucial $120 level, which had sparked fears of a potential downtrend that could drag the cryptocurrency down toward the $100 threshold. Solana Price Gains Ground Chris MacDonald, an analyst at The Motley Fool, recently highlighted two key factors contributing to Solana’s resurgence. One significant catalyst is a proactive initiative by the Solana Foundation.  Bitcoinist reported earlier this week that the organization is currently assessing whether its network can withstand potential threats from quantum computing technologies.  Related Reading: Bitwise’s 2026 Crypto Forecast: Bitcoin, Ethereum, And Solana Poised For New Record Highs In collaboration with Project Eleven, a security firm specializing in post-quantum cryptography, the Solana team has launched a quantum-resistant testnet following a comprehensive threat assessment.  The second notable factor driving the Solana price uptick is the announcement from health and wellness company Mangoceuticals, which revealed plans to allocate $100 million toward acquiring and holding SOL.  Despite the positive momentum, experts caution that Solana’s price is currently following a “clean corrective structure.”  Moving Averages Signal Downtrend From a technical analysis perspective, the 50-day simple moving average (SMA) is situated around $143, significantly higher than the current trading range, while the 200-day SMA looms even further at approximately $170, suggesting a prevailing downtrend rather than a healthy consolidation phase. In the short term, the 20-day exponential moving average has also rolled over near $133 and has consistently rejected previous attempts at a bounce.  Analysts note that until the Solana price can close above the low-$130s for an extended period, any rebounds will likely be seen merely as counter-trend movements.  Immediate support lies just below current trading levels at the $125 mark, followed by critical levels in the $121–$120 range, and another demand zone around $110.  A more significant downturn could push the price into the high $90s, with projections indicating a potential dip to around $80 if liquidations accelerate further, as NewsBTC reported on Thursday. Related Reading: Crypto Payments Firm MoonPay Set For $5 Billion Valuation With NYSE Owner’s Backing The market has already registered an eight-month low near $116.9. A decisive close beneath that level could likely drag the Solana price toward the psychologically significant $100 mark.  On the upside, the Solana price could encounter initial resistance clustered in the $133–$138 range, with stronger resistance observed in higher levels between $144 and $147 that could prevent any new recoveries in the short-term. To facilitate further price recovery, the Solana price will need to clear that second group of resistance levels on a daily close, ideally supported by increased trading volume, to pave the way toward prices between $160 and $165. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com

Over the past few months, Strategy (formerly known as MicroStrategy), the largest publicly traded Bitcoin (BTC) treasury company, has found itself at the center of a pressing issue that could lead to its exclusion from the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) index.  This potential move not only poses significant financial risks for the firm but could also have broader implications for the cryptocurrency sector, with analysts estimating that it could result in losses up to $9 billion in demand for its shares. Industry-Wide Consequences The MSCI proposed in October that companies holding digital assets comprising 50% or more of their total assets should be removed from its global benchmarks, arguing that such companies resemble investment funds, which are excluded from its indexes.  However, many firms, including Strategy, assert that they are operational companies creating innovative products and argue that MSCI’s proposal is biased against the cryptocurrency industry. Related Reading: Solana (SOL) Support Shattered, Potential $100 Test Looms, Says Analyst MSCI is currently conducting a public consultation, and analysts warn that if it decides to exclude Digital Asset Treasury (DAT) companies, it could prompt other index providers to follow suit.  “The conversation already extends beyond just MSCI… to the eligibility of DATs in equity indexes in general,” said Kaasha Saini, head of index strategy at Jefferies, who anticipates that most equity indexes will align with MSCI’s decisions. Asset managers are believed to hold as much as 30% of a large-cap company’s free float, leading to potentially significant outflows if these companies are dropped from major indexes. This situation is particularly precarious for the DAT sector, which often finances its token purchases by selling stock. The company’s CEO, Phong Le, and co-founder Michael Saylor addressed the potential MSCI exclusion in a public letter. They estimated that such a move could lead to $2.8 billion worth of the company’s stock being liquidated and may “chill” the entire industry.  In their letter, they explained that excluding DATs could shut them out from the roughly $15 trillion passive investment market, drastically undermining their competitive standing. Major Outflows Predicted For Strategy  Analysts at TD Cowen estimated in November that around $2.5 billion of Strategy’s market value is linked to MSCI, with an additional $5.5 billion reliant on other indexes.  JPMorgan’s analysis suggested that if MSCI were to exclude Strategy, the company could see $2.8 billion in outflows, a figure that could rise to $8.8 billion if it faced exclusion from other indexes, such as the Nasdaq 100, the CRSP US Total Market Index, and various Russell indexes owned by LSEG. In addition to Strategy, MSCI’s preliminary list identifies 38 companies at risk of exclusion, with a combined issuer market cap of $46.7 billion as of September 30, including French firm Capital B, which is also investing in Bitcoin.  Related Reading: Crypto Payments Firm MoonPay Set For $5 Billion Valuation With NYSE Owner’s Backing Alexandre Laizet, Capital B’s director of Bitcoin strategy, remarked that while the current holdings of passive funds in their shares are limited, having access to passive flows is crucial for future adoption. Matt Cole, CEO of US-based Bitcoin buyer Strive—which is not at risk of exclusion—notes that the proposals have largely been factored into market valuations. He added, “On a longer-term basis, I think it raises the cost of capital for all Bitcoin treasury companies.” At the time of writing, the firm’s stock, which trades on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol MSTR, was trading at $165, marking gains of almost 4% ahead of the close of trading this week.  Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com 

The Bitcoin price has experienced a significant correction after reaching all-time highs above $126,000 in October, currently trading just above $87,900. This marks a notable 30% decline over the past few months.  Despite this setback, analysts at Citi express optimism for the cryptocurrency’s future, forecasting that its value will continue to rise through 2026. Optimistic Bitcoin Price Predictions According to Citi’s analysts, the base case for the Bitcoin price is set at $143,000, reflecting a potential 62% increase from current levels. In a more bullish scenario, the cryptocurrency could surge to over $189,000, indicating a substantial 114% increase.  Conversely, the analysts also present a bear case for the leading crypto, with an estimated price around $78,500, which would represent an additional 10.6% decline from current trading levels. Related Reading: Solana (SOL) Support Shattered, Potential $100 Test Looms, Says Analyst The forecast from Citi relies on the assumption that investor adoption will persist, particularly with an influx of funds into exchange-traded funds (ETFs) projected to reach $15 billion. This influx is seen as a catalyst that could significantly boost the Bitcoin price.  Furthermore, ongoing negotiations in the US Senate regarding their version of the crypto market structure bill, namely the CLARITY Act, which aims to regulate Bitcoin under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), is anticipated to enhance market adoption. In contrast to Bitcoin, analysts express concerns regarding Ethereum’s (ETH) potential for growth. They argue that Ethereum, being viewed more as “programmable money,” has seen decreased activity, which has resulted in its current trading price of just below $3,000—40% below its all-time high of $4,964. Additional Catalyst For Price Growth Chris Neiger, an analyst at The Motley Fool, also attaches bullish predictions to the Bitcoin price future, highlighting that recent US job data reflects an unemployment rate increase to 4.6%, the highest since 2021.  He asserted that if the Federal Reserve (Fed) chose to lower interest rates by 2026, the Bitcoin price could benefit since lower rates typically enhance the cryptocurrency’s value by making borrowing more affordable. In November, JPMorgan provided a more conservative estimate, suggesting that Bitcoin could reach $170,000 by 2026, with potential upside expected over the next six to twelve months.  Related Reading: Crypto Payments Firm MoonPay Set For $5 Billion Valuation With NYSE Owner’s Backing Meanwhile, even more aggressive predictions from market researcher Fundstrat forecast the Bitcoin price could soar between $200,000 and $250,000 by the end of 2026, largely driven by the mainstream adoption of ETFs. Additionally, the establishment of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve by the federal government has encouraged states to consider similar initiatives. Neiger concludes that just as ETFs have contributed to the credibility of cryptocurrencies and facilitated price increases, the formation of state-level Bitcoin reserves could serve as another critical driver propelling Bitcoin’s value higher in 2026. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com 

The Bank of Japan tightened policy on Dec. 18, lifting its benchmark rate to 0.75%, the highest since 1995. Governor Kazuo Ueda framed the move as a formal break with the “ultra-accommodative” regime that has helped fuel global risk-taking for decades. Following the news, Bitcoin was little changed near $87,800, but the calm surface belies […]
The post Japan’s rate hike ends the ‘free money’ era and puts Bitcoin on notice appeared first on CryptoSlate.

XRP-linked exchange-traded funds reached about $60 million in assets under management on December 17, according to market reports, even as XRP’s spot price slid. Related Reading: 5,606 Bitcoin: Lightning Network Sets Fresh Capacity Record At the time of reporting, XRP was trading around $1.86, down more than 8% in the last week. That gap between ETF growth and a falling spot price has left some investors puzzled. ETF Flows And How They Work According to Chad Steingraber, the way ETFs operate helps explain the disconnect. ETF shares trade on exchanges like regular stocks during market hours. Fund managers then tally net flows at the end of the trading day and arrange purchases of the underlying XRP after the market closes. Because of that timing, ETF inflows do not always translate into instant buying pressure on the spot market. Officially crossed $60Million! Record day! https://t.co/Nub2m5MK0Y pic.twitter.com/xg2zgecq24 — Chad Steingraber (@ChadSteingraber) December 18, 2025 Institutional Processes Take Time Based on reports, part of the picture is the nature of institutional decision-making. Large funds tend to move slowly. They run checks, review risk, and take time to approve new positions. That process can take months or longer. So an increase in ETF AUM can reflect careful planning and staged capital allocations rather than a rush of short-term bets. Price Action Shows Technical Weakness On charts, XRP has been under pressure for months. Traders watching longer time frames point to a steady downtrend and multiple warnings of a broader pullback since mid-year. The token has slid about 12% over the past month. Support between $1.80 and $1.90 is now being tested. A sustained break below $1.80 would likely shift focus to $1.60, and then to a wider support band near $1.30 to $1.40 if selling continues. ETF Growth Still Small In Context While $60 million sounds meaningful, that sum is small compared with AUM levels seen in larger crypto ETFs, and it may not be enough on its own to move markets. ETF structures differ, too. Some managers may hedge, use staged buys, or employ other tactics that change how and when they add XRP to reserves. These operational choices can mute any immediate impact on price. ???? Among top cap assets, here are the amount of non-empty wallets on each network currently: ???? Ethereum $ETH: 167.96M ???? Bitcoin $BTC: 57.62M ???? Tether $USDT: 9.63M ???? Dogecoin $DOGE: 8.13M ???? XRP Ledger $XRP: 7.41M ???? Cardano $ADA: 4.54M ???? USD Coin $USDC: 4.39M ???? ChainLink… pic.twitter.com/ciRBUp4GxE — Santiment (@santimentfeed) December 18, 2025 Non-Empty XRP Wallets Steadily Climbing Meanwhile, reports show that the number of non-empty wallets on the XRP Ledger has been climbing. Santiment has highlighted rising counts of addresses holding some XRP. Over the past month, while the token fell in price, on-chain wallet activity suggested accumulation by some holders. That pattern raises questions about whether larger buyers are quietly adding to positions. Related Reading: UK Crypto Ownership Takes Biggest Hit Since 2021, Regulator Says What This Means For Traders For now, markets show mixed signals. ETF AUM growth points to rising institutional involvement over time. Price action, however, signals caution. Traders and investors will be watching whether end-of-day ETF purchases increase demand on the spot market, and whether the $1.80 level holds. The coming days and weeks may help reveal whether AUM gains translate into broader buying or if technical pressure continues to dominate. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

Concerns over quantum computing are weighing on Bitcoin’s price and slowing some investment flows, amid a sharp divide between developers and many investors. Related Reading: UK Crypto Ownership Takes Biggest Hit Since 2021, Regulator Says Developers Call Threat Distant According to Bitcoin developer Adam Back of Blockstream, quantum machines remain far from able to break Bitcoin’s protections. He said the tech is still “ridiculously early” and that research hurdles persist. Back expects no real threat within the next decade and argued that even if parts of Bitcoin’s cryptography were compromised, the network would not automatically be emptied. Security, he noted, does not rest solely on encryption in a way that would allow mass theft on the blockchain. i think the risks are short term NIL. this whole thing is decades away, it’s ridiculously early and they have massive R&D issues in every vector of the required applied physics research to even find out if it’s possible at useful scale. but it’s ok to be “quantum ready” and — Adam Back (@adam3us) December 18, 2025 The Risk That Keeps Some Awake Other voices in the community disagree. Jameson Lopp, a well-known Bitcoin engineer, has warned about the worst-case outcome if quantum advances allowed attackers to break the ECDSA signature scheme that secures many wallets. In that scenario, forged signatures could be used to move funds, and user confidence might erode quickly. That warning has been repeated as a technical possibility, not as something imminent. How should we treat quantum vulnerable coins in a future where quantum computing becomes a threat? This panel from the Presidio Quantum Bitcoin Summit features myself, @theblackmarble, and @cryptoquick.https://t.co/jhr6hjLXru — Jameson Lopp (@lopp) September 14, 2025 Investors Worry, Capital Shifts Nic Carter, a partner at Castle Island Ventures, told observers that it is “extremely bearish” when influential developers appear to dismiss any quantum risk outright. He said the gap between investor concern and developer assessment is large. Reports have disclosed that some capital is being held back while large holders consider spreading risk into other assets. Craig Warmke of the Bitcoin Policy Institute added that perceived quantum risk has already pushed some holders to reduce their Bitcoin positions. Quantum risk is stemming the flow of capital into bitcoin, and encouraging large holders to diversify out of bitcoin. When non-technical people express concerns, they sometimes use technically incorrect language. It’s frustrating to see technical people dismiss concerns with an… https://t.co/MtSNY7Ivg3 — Craig Warmke (@craigwarmke) December 18, 2025 Current Technology Falls Short Most cryptographers agree quantum computers today are not powerful enough to crack Bitcoin’s cryptography. That assessment is widely reported by analysts who follow both fields. Metaculus’s median date for when quantum computers will break modern cryptography is 2040:https://t.co/Li8ni8A9Ox Seemingly about a 20% chance it will be before end of 2030. — vitalik.eth (@VitalikButerin) August 27, 2025 Still, the timeline is debated. Based on reports from researchers and public comments from industry figures like Vitalik Buterin, there is a measurable chance — about ~20% — that a machine capable of breaking today’s crypto could exist by 2030. That estimate has prompted calls for proactive steps. Related Reading: Trump-Linked World Liberty Backs USD1 With Treasury-Fueled Expansion Calls For Preparedness Grow Financial institutions and national programs, the reports say, are investing heavily in quantum work, and tools like AI are accelerating research in the field. As a result, many in the crypto world argue contingency plans should be ready well before any practical threat appears. Suggestions include moving to quantum-resistant signature schemes and improving wallet practices so funds are not left exposed while upgrades take place. Some experts point out that banks and other big targets may face attacks earlier, which could give the crypto sector time to respond. Featured image from Shutterstock, chart from TradingView

Solana (SOL) is currently one of the poorest performers among the top ten largest cryptocurrencies in the market, experiencing a sharp 13% decline over the past week.  Bearish Patterns Emerge For Solana This downturn comes as the cryptocurrency has broken below the critical support level of $120, which had acted as a pivotal floor since the start of the month and previously prevented further drops. The situation appears even more dire for investors with bullish sentiments, as recent data from CoinGecko indicates that Solana has retraced nearly 60% from its all-time high of $293, reached back in January of this year.  Year-to-date, the token has experienced a significant loss of 40%, which raises additional concerns among top analysts about its near-term stability. Related Reading: Optimism Grows In Crypto Market Structure Bill After Wednesday’s Senate Banking Meeting Experts are cautioning that unless conditions change, the Solana price may soon retest the $100 mark—an area not seen since April. Should this scenario materialize, it would imply an additional drop of approximately 15.9%.  Some analysts, like market commentator EddieTradezz, have pointed to a bearish “head and shoulders” pattern formed in SOL’s daily chart, suggesting that Solana is on the brink of a substantial decline.  He notes that it is now breaking through strong long-term resistance, with April’s lows around $95 potentially being a more realistic target than $100. Adding to the bearish sentiment, fellow expert ColdBloodShill has indicated that Solana may be heading toward a price point of $80, which would result in a drastic additional drop of 32%. However, as EddieTradezz mentioned, the possibility for recovery would largely depend on market-wide conditions and investor sentiment. Institutional Interest Grows As SOL ETFs See Major Inflows Despite the prevailing bearish indicators, there has been a noteworthy development on the institutional front. Recently approved Solana exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the US have seen impressive uptake, amassing $63.9 million in net inflows over the past week.  This suggests that institutions are beginning to accumulate Solana, potentially viewing it as a long-term investment opportunity. However, this positive news has been overshadowed by heavy selling pressure in spot markets.  Related Reading: Bitwise’s 2026 Crypto Forecast: Bitcoin, Ethereum, And Solana Poised For New Record Highs Increased volatility has led to a rise in liquidations for leveraged positions, dampening Solana’s price reaction to the overall positive developments in institutional interest. Ultimately, Solana’s future remains uncertain. While institutional interest may offer some hope, the immediate outlook is clouded by increased selling pressure and the inability to regain capital in the broader market, which has recently dropped below the $2.90 trillion mark in total market capitalization. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com

World Liberty Financial has put forward a proposal to tap a portion of its token treasury to grow USD1, the dollar-pegged stablecoin linked with the project. The plan would free up about $120 million to back listings, liquidity programs and partner incentives. Related Reading: UK Crypto Ownership Takes Biggest Hit Since 2021, Regulator Says Treasury Move Could Add Firepower To USD1 Based on reports, WLFI’s proposal would unlock roughly 5% of its unlocked treasury — a fund slice drawn from a multi-billion dollar reserve — for strategic use to expand USD1’s reach. The move has split the community, with some holders supporting rapid expansion and others warning about tokenomics and governance risks. According to the stablecoin’s custodial partners, USD1 is backed by short-term US government treasuries, US dollar deposits and other cash equivalents and is redeemable at one-for-one for US dollars. Independent pages from the custodian outline monthly attestation reporting and a conservative reserve mix. Reports have disclosed that USD1 has grown quickly since launch and sits among the larger USD-pegged tokens, with circulating supply and market cap figures showing meaningful traction on trading platforms. Exchange listings and deeper integrations have raised visibility, and some market trackers put USD1’s market cap in the multi-billion dollar range. Political Links Add A Layer Of Scrutiny World Liberty Financial is widely described in news reporting as a project backed by the Trump family, and that political link has drawn extra attention from regulators, lawmakers and media. Coverage has noted how the family’s involvement makes governance decisions more visible and politically sensitive. The proposal is now subject to a WLFI governance vote. Supporters argue the $120 million allocation could accelerate integrations with both centralized exchanges and decentralized finance venues, improving liquidity and on-ramp options for users. Opponents point to the size of the spend and question whether deploying a large treasury sum for adoption incentives could push short-term token price moves that do not reflect long-term utility. Related Reading: Russia Rejects Crypto As Legal Tender, Finance Official Confirms What To Watch Next Observers will track the governance tally, any formal rollout plans for the funds, and reserve attestations tied to USD1. Market metrics such as circulating supply and exchange flows will also offer clues about how the push affects liquidity and peg stability. Recent exchange pages already show USD1 circulating supply figures and listing details that analysts use to measure adoption. In short, the proposal could widen USD1’s footprint quickly if approved. But it raises clear governance and market questions that WLFI holders and outside watchers now want answered before any large sums are moved. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

Crypto payment platform MoonPay is poised to receive a significant fundraising boost as recent reports suggest that Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), the owner of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), is exploring an investment in the company.  According to a Bloomberg report, which cited sources familiar with the discussions, MoonPay is close to finalizing this fundraising round and is targeting a valuation around $5 billion. New Regulatory Approval And Investment Talks Based in New York, MoonPay specializes in simplifying the trading of cryptocurrencies through various payment methods, including PayPal, Apple Pay, and Venmo. The platform also offers tools for users to send, receive, and manage stablecoins.  Notably, MoonPay recently obtained a Limited Purpose Trust Charter from the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS), a significant regulatory approval that complements its existing BitLicense.  Related Reading: Bitwise’s 2026 Crypto Forecast: Bitcoin, Ethereum, And Solana Poised For New Record Highs This charter enables MoonPay to expand its custody and other crypto services within New York, placing the company in league with established players like Coinbase (COIN) and PayPal, which also operate under the state’s strict digital asset regulations. The momentum for MoonPay continues to build, particularly with news that Caroline Pham, the acting chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), plans to join the firm as its chief legal and administrative officer.  CFTC Chair Caroline Pham to Join MoonPay Pham has been a notable figure in the regulatory landscape, having served on the CFTC’s board since April 2022 and becoming acting chair in January 2025.  She announced her intention to return to the private sector once a permanent chair was confirmed, which is expected to happen this week with Mike Selig’s anticipated confirmation. Under Pham’s leadership, the CFTC expedited several initiatives focused on cryptocurrencies, including the allowance for spot crypto trading on futures exchanges and the launch of a digital assets pilot program permitting the use of assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) in derivatives markets.  Additionally, Pham implemented various operational changes within the CFTC, reportedly leading to nearly $50 million in annual savings by enhancing governance and accountability. Related Reading: Optimism Grows In Crypto Market Structure Bill After Wednesday’s Senate Banking Meeting Pham articulated that her agenda as acting chair concentrated on executing a range of presidential executive orders aimed at promoting regulatory clarity and efficiency across government agencies.  Reflecting on her decision to join MoonPay, she emphasized the importance of people in her career choices, stating that meaningful connections guide her decisions. Her connection to MoonPay began through a dinner hosted by Christie’s Art + Tech in 2023, where she met MoonPay’s president, Keith Grossman. A conversation that started at the dinner evolved into a friendship and later professional discussions as Pham considered her options post-government. Grossman expressed confidence in Pham’s capabilities, stating, “MoonPay has really matured, and Caroline is the exact type of leader with the exact type of big bank and regulatory experience that’s needed for us to be able to move to the next level.” Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com

Gold and silver hit fresh highs on Tuesday while Bitcoin slid back under $89,000, sending a clear message that some investors are favoring metal over riskier bets. Related Reading: Russia Rejects Crypto As Legal Tender, Finance Official Confirms According to Reuters and market data, gold traded above $4,330 an ounce and silver pushed past $66 an ounce in what market participants called a strong run for bullion. Reports have disclosed that silver’s rally has lifted local prices in India to about ₹2.06 lakh per kilogram. Metals Rally, Hit New Highs Silver’s advance has been dramatic. It is up roughly 120-130% year-to-date, a jump that outpaces gold by a wide margin. Traders point to a mix of stronger industrial demand from solar and electronics, tighter supplies, and flows into safe assets as reasons behind the move. Gold buyers have also been encouraged by signs that US inflation may cool and by shifting expectations for central bank policy, which tends to support non-yielding assets when real yields fall. JUST IN ????: Silver soars to $66 for the first time in history ???????????? pic.twitter.com/YGCrB5VDPH — Barchart (@Barchart) December 17, 2025 Safe Haven Demand And Industrial Use Some investors are treating metals as a hedge. Others want exposure linked to real economy needs. Both forces are at work. Analysts say silver’s dual role — as an industrial metal and as a store of value — is amplifying moves. Energy prices and supply reports have added pressure on markets, and that has upped demand for physical metal in several trading hubs. Bitcoin Slips Under Key Level Bitcoin fell below $89,000 and was trading nearer to $88,450 in mid-session, giving back gains from earlier months. Based on reports and market feeds, BTC is about 7% lower year-to-date and roughly 30% below its October 2025 peak above $126,000. Some crypto funds recorded outflows recently, and several traders described market tone as risk-off, which has weighed on digital assets this week. Liquidity, ETF Flows And Sentiment ETF flows played a role. Where money leaves ETFs, prices can feel the impact quickly. Margin calls, profit taking after a volatile run, and investors moving to what they see as safer stores of value have all been cited by sources watching the tape. Technical levels near $84,000 to $85,000 are now being watched for support, while resistance sits close to $90,000 to $92,000. Related Reading: 5,606 Bitcoin: Lightning Network Sets Fresh Capacity Record Markets Eye Data And Policy Moves Economic reports and central bank signals are next on traders’ calendars. US inflation prints and comments from global central banks have been flagged as possible triggers for fresh moves in both metals and crypto. Investors also noted that equity weakness, especially in some large tech names, has nudged money toward hard assets and away from riskier positions. Several market strategists said that policy shifts overseas, including from the Bank of Japan, could further change global liquidity and investor choices. Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

The U.S. Federal Reserve has taken a notable step in reshaping how banks under its supervision can engage with crypto, reversing guidance introduced in 2023 that had sharply limited such activities. Related Reading: XRP Risks Double-Top Crash Toward $0.40, Peter Brandt Warns The decision reflects a broader reassessment inside the central bank about how regulation should adapt to financial innovation, especially as digital assets continue to intersect with traditional banking infrastructure. Under the earlier framework, uninsured state-chartered banks were required to follow the same constraints as federally insured institutions in order to remain under Federal Reserve supervision. That approach effectively barred some crypto banks from accessing core payment systems or Federal Reserve membership. BTC's price trends to the downside on the daily chart. Source: BTCUSD on Tradingview What the Policy Shift Changes for Banks The new guidance establishes a formal pathway for both insured and uninsured banks supervised by the Federal Reserve to pursue certain innovative activities, including those related to cryptocurrencies. Institutions will still be required to meet supervisory and risk-management standards, but they will no longer be automatically excluded based on their business models. For uninsured banks, the implications are significant. Access to Federal Reserve membership would allow direct settlement through central bank payment systems rather than reliance on intermediary banks. This idea could lower operational frictions for crypto custody, settlement, and related services, potentially expanding the role of banks in digital asset markets without changing existing safety and soundness expectations. Custodia Case Highlights Regulatory Tensions The policy reversal has renewed attention on Custodia Bank, a crypto-focused institution whose application for a Federal Reserve master account was denied in part due to the now-rescinded guidance. Custodia CEO Caitlin Long has argued that the 2023 policy effectively blocked lawful access to the Fed’s infrastructure and welcomed its withdrawal as a correction of past regulatory overreach. Not all policymakers agree. Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr dissented from the decision, warning that loosening the framework could undermine a level competitive playing field and encourage regulatory arbitrage. Michael Barr’s position highlights the ongoing debate within regulatory circles over how to strike a balance between innovation and financial stability.r Broader Implications for Crypto Markets While the Fed’s move does not directly change how cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum trade, it may influence market structure over time. Easier access for banks could support deeper institutional participation, greater liquidity, and expanded custody and settlement options. Related Reading: Ethereum Risks Slide To $2,000 If December Closes Below This Level: Analyst For now, the shift signals a more flexible regulatory posture, one that acknowledges the rapid evolution of digital asset markets and the banks that seek to serve them. Cover image from ChatGPT, BTCUSD chart from Tradingview

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

An API that charges for queries has always been awkward. Subscription tiers and monthly billing break down when autonomous agents make thousands of microtransactions per hour across new services. x402 is Coinbase's bet that the missing piece is a payment primitive wired directly into HTTP. The mechanism revives HTTP status code 402 “Payment Required.” When […]
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In its latest report, asset manager and exchange-traded fund (ETF) issuer, Bitwise, has shared an optimistic 2026 outlook for the crypto market, anticipating significant growth, while predicting new all-time highs for Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL). Megatrends In Crypto?  Bitwise begins by asserting that Bitcoin is poised to break free from its traditional four-year price cycle, setting the stage for new records. Several factors contribute to this bullish forecast.  The dynamics of past cycles, including the Bitcoin Halving, interest rate fluctuations, and market booms and busts fueled by leverage, are expected to be less impactful in the coming years.  Related Reading: Bitcoin Bottom Forecast: Top Expert Predicts $40,000 Target Next Year, Here’s The Analysis Notably, the entry of large institutions like Citi, Morgan Stanley, Wells Fargo, and Merrill Lynch into the crypto space is anticipated to accelerate institutional allocations toward spot ETFs and enhance on-chain developments by 2026.  As a result, Bitcoin is projected to become less volatile, even indicating that it has demonstrated lower volatility than tech giant Nvidia throughout 2025.  The report also expresses strong optimism for Ethereum and Solana, particularly contingent upon the passing of the CLARITY Act. Bitwise believes that the growth of stablecoins and tokenization represents significant “megatrends,” with both Ethereum and Solana positioned to be the primary beneficiaries of this trend. ETFs To Acquire New Market Supply Institutional demand is forecasted to surge, with ETFs expected to acquire more than 100% of the new supply of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. By 2026, Bitwise expects that most institutional investors will have access to crypto ETFs.  As Bitwise projects the new supply hitting the market, estimates indicate roughly 166,000 Bitcoin valued at $15.3 billion, 960,000 Ethereum around $3.0 billion, and 23 million Solana coins amounting to $3.2 billion. However, the firm anticipates that ETFs will likely purchase even more than these figures suggest. The report further highlights that crypto equities are expected to outperform traditional tech stocks. While tech shares have surged by 140% over the past three years, crypto equities have significantly outpaced them.  The Bitwise Crypto Innovators 30 Index, which tracks companies providing crucial infrastructure and services for crypto assets, has rocketed by 585% during the same time frame. Bitwise believes this momentum will persist into 2026, driven by potential revenue growth, mergers and acquisitions, and a favorable regulatory landscape. Stablecoins As Scapegoats For Economic Woes As stablecoins gain traction, Bitwise cautions that they may become scapegoats for destabilizing emerging market currencies. Currently valued at nearly $300 billion, the market for stablecoins, which include tokenized versions of the US dollar like USDT and USDC, is predicted to reach $500 billion by the end of 2026.  With this rise, it’s anticipated that one or two countries may blame stablecoins for their financial troubles, despite the reality that people would not turn to stablecoins if their local currencies were stable. Related Reading: Cantor Fitzgerald Projects Major Growth For Hyperliquid (HYPE) In Explosive New Report Additionally, Bitwise forecasts the launch of over 100 crypto-linked ETFs in the United States, following the SEC’s issuance of new listing standards that enable these funds to enter the market under a unified regulatory framework. This regulatory clarity sets the stage for what Bitwise dubs “ETF-palooza” in 2026. Lastly, the firm predicts that half of Ivy League endowments will likely invest in cryptocurrencies, and that on-chain vault assets under management will double in the coming years. At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $86,165, having recorded major losses of 2% and almost 7% over the past 24 hours and seven days respectively. Currently, the leading crypto is trading 31.8% below its all-time high of $126,000.  Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com 

On Wednesday, a bipartisan meeting of the Senate Banking Committee, led by Senator Tim Scott, offered a cautiously optimistic outlook for discussions surrounding the anticipated crypto market structure bill.  Despite the absence of any markup hearings scheduled for this week, industry representatives and senators engaged in what many considered a productive dialogue regarding the evolving legislative landscape. Senators Collaborate With Industry Leaders Key figures from major crypto firms were among the attendees, including executives from Coinbase (COIN), Kraken, Chainlink, a16z, and Ripple, who have been increasingly involved in discussions aimed at fostering the positive growth of digital assets in the country.  According to Eleanor Terret from Crypto In America, the atmosphere of the meeting was described as “constructive and collaborative.” Senators from both parties engaged actively with industry representatives, asking insightful questions and exploring the nuances of the proposed bill text. Related Reading: Cantor Fitzgerald Projects Major Growth For Hyperliquid (HYPE) In Explosive New Report Participating senators included Democrats Mark Warner and Catherine Cortez Masto, who were noted for their engagement and for posing significant questions to both the industry representatives and Senate Banking staff. Three key areas of ongoing negotiation emerged from the discussions: the classification of tokens—distinguishing between securities and commodities, the roles of stablecoin interest versus rewards, and discussions surrounding decentralized finance (DeFi). The meeting’s update follows earlier confirmation from a committee spokesperson that the Banking Committee will not conduct a markup hearing prior to the upcoming Christmas break. Instead, the committee intends to monitor the bill’s progress for potential action in early 2026. Intensified Talks On Crypto Regulation In a statement released earlier this week, Jeff Naft, spokesperson for Chair Scott, emphasized the committee’s commitment to pursuing a bipartisan approach to address the complexities of digital asset market legislation.  “Chairman Scott and the Senate Banking Committee have made strong progress,” Naft noted, underscoring continued efforts to establish a new regulatory framework that would enhance clarity for the crypto sector and position the United States as a leader in the digital assets arena. Negotiations have intensified over the past week, with Republican members of the Banking Committee working closely with their Democratic counterparts to seek a viable compromise.  Related Reading: SEC Wraps Up Investigation Into Aave Protocol, Confirms CEO Stani Kulechov However, Democrats have also consistently called for additional time in the piece of legislation to address various concerns, particularly regarding financial stability, market integrity, and ethical considerations. Specific ethics concerns have arisen related to President Donald Trump and his family’s involvement in crypto-related business ventures, which reportedly have added to their wealth.  As Congress prepares to reconvene after the holiday break, immediate attention will shift to federal government funding, with the current funding bill set to expire on January 30. Featured image from DALL-E, chart from TradingView.com