Tokenized Precious Metals: Bringing Gold, Silver, and Other Metals Into the Blockchain Era
For thousands of years, precious metals like gold and silver have served as reliable stores of value, hedges against inflation, and symbols of wealth. Yet owning them physically comes with challenges: high storage costs, security risks, limited divisibility, and cumbersome trading.
Now imagine owning a precise fraction of a London-vaulted gold bar, tradable instantly from your phone, divisible to eight decimal places, and transferable globally in seconds—without ever touching the metal. This is the promise of tokenized precious metals, one of the most practical bridges between traditional finance and blockchain technology.
Tokenization represents physical metals as digital tokens on a blockchain, backed 1:1 by audited reserves. As gold prices surge toward record highs in 2026, tokenized versions have seen explosive growth, with the total market cap exceeding $5 billion.
This guide explores the mechanics, history, benefits, risks, and future of tokenized precious metals—ideal for beginners curious about blockchain’s real-world applications and intermediate investors seeking diversified exposure.
Secure vault storage underlies tokenized metals, with professional custodians like Brink’s holding physical bars to back every digital token. What Is Tokenization of Precious Metals?
Tokenization converts rights to a physical asset into a digital token on a blockchain. For precious metals, each token represents a specific amount of allocated metal—typically one fine troy ounce of gold—stored in professional vaults.
These tokens function as ERC-20 (Ethereum) or similar standards, enabling seamless wallet-to-wallet transfers, trading on crypto exchanges, and integration with decentralized finance (DeFi).
Key features:
Full backing — Tokens are redeemable (oftenily or with conditions) for physical delivery.
Transparency — Regular third-party audits and on-chain proofs verify reserves.
Fractional ownership — Investors buy tiny fractions, democratizing access to assets once reserved for institutions.
Major examples include gold (dominant) and growing silver tokenization, with platinum and palladium emerging slowly.
A Brief History of Tokenized Precious Metals
Gold’s digitization predates modern crypto. Early attempts in the 1990s, like e-gold, failed due to regulatory issues.
Blockchain revived the concept in the late 2010s. Paxos launched PAX Gold (PAXG) in September 2019 as the first major regulated tokenized gold, approved by the New York Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). Tether followed with Tether Gold (XAUT) in early 2020.
Initial adoption was slow, but rising gold prices, institutional interest in real-world assets (RWAs), and DeFi growth drove expansion. By 2026, tokenized gold’s market cap has hit all-time highs above $5 billion, fueled by gold’s rally toward $5,000 per ounce and broader RWA tokenization trends.
Silver tokenization trails but grows, with total tokenized silver around $434 million.
How Tokenized Precious Metals Work: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
The process is straightforward yet relies on trust and technology:
Custody and Storage — The issuer purchases and stores physical metal in secure, insured vaults (e.g., LBMA-approved in London or Switzerland).
Auditing — Independent firms conduct regular audits, publishing reports and sometimes bar serial numbers.
Minting Tokens — Upon deposit, the issuer mints equivalent tokens on a blockchain (usually Ethereum).
Trading and Transfer — Tokens trade on exchanges or transfer peer-to-peer.
Redemption — Holders (above minimums) can redeem tokens for physical delivery, often with fees.
PAX Gold (PAXG) and Tether Gold (XAUT)—the two dominant tokenized gold assets. PAX Gold (PAXG) and Tether Gold (XAUT)—the two dominant tokenized gold assets. Major Tokenized Precious Metals: A Comparison
Two tokens dominate over 90% of the market:
Feature PAX Gold (PAXG) Tether Gold (XAUT) Issuer Paxos (NYDFS-regulated) Tether (Cayman Islands-based) Launch Year 2019 2020 Blockchain Ethereum (primarily) Ethereum & Tron Backing 1 token = 1 troy oz London Good Delivery bar 1 token = 1 troy oz (allocated bars) Market Cap (2026 est.) ~$2-2.5 billion ~$2.6 billion Redemption Yes (minimums apply, delivery fees) Yes (direct bar delivery available) Transparency Monthly audits, bar-level info Attestations, serial number lookup Strengths Strong U.S. regulation, institutional trust Higher liquidity, multi-chain support
(Data approximate based on 2026 reports.)
Smaller projects exist for silver (e.g., Aberdeen Standard Physical Silver, Kinesis) and niche metals.
Benefits and Advantages
Tokenized metals offer compelling improvements over physical ownership:
Fractional Ownership → Buy $50 worth of gold—impossible with physical bars.
24/7 Liquidity → Trade anytime on global crypto exchanges, unlike traditional markets.
Lower Costs → No storage fees (issuer-covered), reduced transport/insurance.
Global Accessibility → Anyone with internet can invest, bypassing banks or brokers.
Transparency and Security → Audits and blockchain immutability reduce fraud risk.
DeFi Integration → Use as collateral for lending, yield farming, or stablecoin pairs.
In 2025-2026, trading volumes for tokenized gold reached $178 billion—surpassing most gold ETFs.
Pros and cons at a glance: tokenized metals combine gold’s stability with blockchain efficiency, though counterparty risk remains. financestrategists.com Real-World Applications and Adoption
Investors use tokenized metals to:
Hedge inflation and currency devaluation (especially in emerging markets).
Diversify portfolios alongside stocks, bonds, and Bitcoin.
Earn yield in DeFi protocols accepting PAXG/XAUT as collateral.
Enable cross-border payments settled in “digital gold.”
Adoption surged in 2025-2026 as institutions like BlackRock explored RWAs and gold hit records. Tokenized versions provide easier, faster exposure than ETFs for crypto-native users.
Challenges and Risks
Tokenized metals aren’t risk-free:
Counterparty Risk → You trust the issuer to hold reserves. Audits mitigate but don’t eliminate this.
Regulatory Uncertainty → Varying global rules; some jurisdictions restrict redemption.
Premiums and Tracking Errors → Tokens sometimes trade above/below spot price.
Redemption Hurdles → High minimums (e.g., 430 oz for PAXG delivery) and fees.
Smart Contract Risks → Though rare, blockchain vulnerabilities exist.
PAXG’s stricter regulation appeals to conservatives; XAUT’s liquidity suits active traders.
Future Outlook
Tokenized precious metals are early in adoption. As RWAs mature, expect:
More metals (platinum, palladium) and issuers.
Seamless TradFi integration (e.g., tokenized gold in brokerage accounts).
Institutional inflows as regulations clarify.
Enhanced oracles and decentralized custody reducing counterparty risk.
With gold and blockchain both time-tested, this sector could grow to tens of billions in market cap this decade.
Conclusion
Tokenized precious metals represent one of blockchain’s most practical applications: taking an ancient store of value and making it fit for the digital age. They preserve gold and silver’s intrinsic qualities—scarcity, durability, universal appeal—while adding liquidity, accessibility, and efficiency that physical ownership can’t match.
Whether hedging uncertainty, diversifying a portfolio, or exploring DeFi, tokenized metals offer a compelling middle ground between tradition and innovation.
Start small, choose a reputable issuer, and always verify audits. The future of precious metals is digital—and it’s already here.
Explore related articles on Cryptopress.site, such as “Tokenization of Real Estate: Breakthroughs and Barriers in 2025 Pilots“.
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Trump Nominates Former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh to Succeed Jerome Powell
President Trump officially nominated Kevin Warsh on Friday to replace Jerome Powell as Chair of the Federal Reserve when his term expires in May 2026.
Warsh, a former Fed governor and Morgan Stanley veteran, is historically viewed as a fiscal hawk, though he has recently aligned with Trump’s calls for lower interest rates.
The nominee has a background in the digital asset space, having served as an advisor to Bitwise and an early investor in the algorithmic stablecoin project Basis.
Bitcoin and broader markets reacted with volatility; BTC dipped toward $81,000 as investors weighed Warsh’s history of favoring monetary discipline and a smaller Fed balance sheet.
President Donald Trump announced on Friday via Truth Social his intention to nominate former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Warsh to lead the U.S. central bank. The decision follows months of public tension between the White House and current Chair Jerome Powell, whom Trump has frequently criticized for maintaining high interest rates. Warsh, who served on the Fed board from 2006 to 2011, is expected to bring a “regime change” to the institution, focusing on monetary reform and a significant reduction of the Fed’s $7.5 trillion balance sheet.
In the cryptocurrency sector, Warsh’s nomination presents a complex profile for investors. Unlike many traditional economists, Warsh has engaged directly with the industry. He previously served as an advisor to crypto index fund Bitwise and was an angel investor in Basis, an algorithmic stablecoin project that shuttered in 2018 due to regulatory hurdles. While he has described Bitcoin as an important asset and a potential hedge against currency debasement, he has also referred to cryptocurrency more broadly as “software” rather than money, signaling a preference for clear regulatory frameworks and the possible development of a wholesale CBDC.
Market reaction to the news was swift and largely risk-off. Bitcoin fell over 3% to the $81,000 range as prediction market odds on Polymarket for Warsh’s nomination surged past 95%. Analysts at 10x Research noted that Warsh’s reputation for fiscal restraint and his past warnings about “speculative excess” during the 2008 financial crisis have made some traders nervous about future liquidity. However, proponents argue that his understanding of blockchain technology could lead to more sophisticated policy than the current administration’s approach.
“I have known Kevin for a long period of time and have no doubt that he will go down as one of the GREAT Fed chairmen, maybe the best,” Trump stated in his announcement, emphasizing Warsh’s experience in monetary policy and his ability to communicate complex economic shifts to the public. If confirmed by the Senate, Warsh will inherit an economy currently navigating a 3.5% to 3.75% interest rate environment and a contentious debate over the independence of the central bank.
The nomination now moves to the Senate Banking Committee. While Republicans hold the majority, some members, including Senator Thom Tillis, have expressed reservations about moving forward with any Fed confirmations until ongoing investigations into the central bank’s internal operations are resolved. This potential political deadlock could create further uncertainty for global markets and digital asset volatility heading into the second quarter of the year.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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Shiny Coins #6 – the “Digital Gold” Duel As Macro Fear Bites
Happy Friday, folks. If your portfolio looks like a crime scene today, you’re in good company. As of today, January 30, 2026, the market has decided to test our collective blood pressure. Bitcoin (BTC) has taken a sharp 7% tumble this week, currently hovering around $82,459, with its dominance sitting heavy at 58.6%. The total market cap has retracted to roughly $2.85 trillion as institutional fatigue sets in, evidenced by nearly $818 million in spot ETF outflows. The Fear & Greed Index has plummeted from a cozy 38 to a shivering 28 (Extreme Fear), fueled by a messy macro backdrop involving US government shutdown threats and total uncertainty over the next Fed Chair. It’s a classic “risk-off” week, but as always, there are a few shiny outliers that refuse to follow the herd. From gold-backed safe havens to AI-driven infrastructure, here are the coins actually lighting up our screens while everything else fades to red.
The Shiny Coins Right Now
1. PAXG (PAX Gold) — $5,063.90 | +8.06% (7d) When the world feels like it’s ending, degens suddenly remember that shiny yellow rocks exist. PAXG is the absolute star of the week, serving as the primary exit ramp for traders fleeing the BTC volatility. While Bitcoin struggles with its “digital gold” identity crisis, PAXG is doing exactly what it was designed for: tracking the soaring price of physical gold during global geopolitical uncertainty. It’s the ultimate “defensive” play for the 2026 market regime. Key Metric: 19% YTD gain, significantly outperforming the broader crypto market in January. Short-term outlook: Bullish “I don’t always buy gold, but when I do, I prefer it on-chain.”
2. MemeCore (M) — $1.63 | +4.22% (7d) In a sea of double-digit losses, MemeCore is the only major meme-infrastructure play holding its head above water. While traditional memecoins like PEPE are bleeding out, the MemeCore ecosystem is seeing a surge in “flight-to-quality” (a term we use very loosely here) within the speculative sector. It’s currently the 39th largest asset by market cap, proving that even in a crash, people still want to bet on the culture. Key Metric: Positive 7-day price action despite a 15% drop in the total crypto market cap. Short-term outlook: Cautious Survival of the funniest.
3. WLFI (World Liberty Financial) — $0.165 | -0.07% (7d) The Trump-linked political powerhouse is showing incredible relative strength. While SOL and ETH are down 14%, WLFI is basically flat. The “political narrative” remains one of the stickiest metas of 2026, especially with the upcoming shifts in US regulatory leadership. Smart money seems to be parking here, betting that this project remains a central hub for the “DeFi for the masses” movement regardless of Bitcoin’s price floor. Key Metric: Daily volume hovering near $108 million even during the market sell-off. Short-term outlook: Bullish “We’re going to build a big, beautiful wall… around our profits.”
4. HYPE (Hyperliquid) — $22.14 | -9.70% (7d) Don’t let the red percentage fool you; HYPE is “shiny” because it is the primary venue where the $1.7 billion liquidation event occurred. Volume on Hyperliquid has reached all-time highs this week as traders leverage up to catch the falling knife or hedge their spot positions. As a decentralized perpetual exchange, HYPE thrives on volatility, and this week has been nothing but high-octane price action. Key Metric: Daily active users hitting new monthly highs as retail shifts away from centralized exchanges. Short-term outlook: Very Bullish (on volume, if not immediately on price) “Liquidation is just another word for a fresh start, right?”
5. NEAR (NEAR Protocol) — $1.43 | -12.16% (7d) NEAR is the undisputed king of the “AI Agent” narrative right now. With over 50 AI projects currently building in its ecosystem and the launch of the AI Vault tool, NEAR is transforming from a Layer-1 into a specialized AI compute layer. Despite the price dip, developer activity is at an all-time high, and the “Prividium” upgrade is bringing much-needed programmable privacy to institutional users. Key Metric: 150% increase in AI-sector TVL within the NEAR ecosystem compared to 2025. Short-term outlook: Bullish Thinking about the robots so you don’t have to.
6. TAO (Bittensor) — $223.84 | -14.65% (7d) TAO is the blueprint for decentralized AI, and even though it’s getting whacked by the “risk-off” stick, the underlying data is mind-boggling. The network is now seeing over 5.8 million daily model calls. As NVIDIA chips become increasingly scarce and expensive, TAO’s decentralized compute marketplace is the only game in town for smaller devs. It’s a “buy the dip” favorite for the AI-maximalist crowd. Key Metric: 85,000+ active developers currently participating in subnets. Short-term outlook: Cautious (waiting for BTC to stabilize) “Artificial intelligence, real financial pain.”
7. LINK (Chainlink) — $11.51 | -13.69% (7d) Chainlink is essentially the “toll booth” of the Real World Asset (RWA) revolution. With 80% of global RWA projects using LINK oracles, it doesn’t matter who wins the L1 war—Chainlink wins anyway. Institutional adoption of tokenized T-bills and stocks (shoutout to Robinhood’s new Arbitrum chain) is keeping the revenue flowing into the LINK ecosystem even when retail isn’t buying. Key Metric: 35% of total protocol revenue now comes directly from the RWA sector. Short-text outlook: Very Bullish (Long-term) The only bridge to TradFi that hasn’t collapsed yet.
8. SOL (Solana) — $118.77 | -13.93% (7d) Solana is currently the “most searched” token in the market, even as it retraces toward the $100 psychological level. The ecosystem is maturing into a DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure) and AI powerhouse, closing the market cap gap with Ethereum. While the 7-day performance is ugly, the on-chain speed and low fees mean it remains the playground for every new experiment in the space. Key Metric: 65,000 transactions per second (TPS) theoretical limit being tested by massive DePIN data flows. Short-term outlook: Fading Heat “Ethereum Killer” is so 2024. In 2026, it’s just “The Internet’s Computer.”
Hidden Gem of the Week: Canton (CC)
While the majors are bleeding, Canton (CC) is up a staggering 19.28% over the last 7 days. With a market cap of around $5.3 billion (inching its way toward the top 20), Canton is the quiet leader in institutional privacy infrastructure. Its recent “Prividium” integration allows banks to trade RWAs with customized privacy—hiding sensitive data from us plebs while keeping regulators happy. It’s the “boring” tech that’s actually making money right now.
One to Watch Closely: Bitcoin (BTC)
We are watching the $80,000 level like hawks. This is the “floor” everyone is talking about. With $9 billion in options expiring today and the US Senate blocking funding deals, BTC is at a crossroads. If it holds $80k, we could see a V-shaped recovery to $100k. If it breaks? Pack your bags for the $69,000 support level. This is the ultimate “make or break” week for the digital gold narrative.
The Final Word: Rotation or Retreat?
The current market regime is shifting away from pure “memecoin mania” and back toward utility-driven narratives. The fact that PAXG, LINK, and NEAR are the primary topics of conversation (and relative price strength) suggests that the “smart money” is preparing for a longer period of macro uncertainty. We are seeing a flight to safety—but in crypto, safety means tokenized gold and AI infrastructure. It’s a risk-off environment, but the “shiny” coins of 2026 are much more sophisticated than the dog-coins of yesteryear. Stay grounded, manage your leverage, and remember: the best time to look for shiny things is when everyone else is looking for the exit.
See you next week for more Shiny Coins on Cryptopress.site
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Gold and Silver Prices Crater As Kevin Warsh Fed Nomination Sparks Sharp Deleveraging
Precious metals faced a massive liquidation on Friday, with gold dropping as much as 8% to break below the $5,000 threshold and silver falling below $100 per ounce.
The correction followed reports and subsequent confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve Chairman, sparking a sharp rebound in the U.S. dollar index.
Analysts at Goldman Sachs and other institutions noted that heavy concentration in call options exacerbated the downward move as the market reached extremely overbought levels.
Precious metals markets experienced a violent correction on Friday, marking the most severe single-day decline for gold and silver in over 13 years. The sell-off saw spot gold plunge from an all-time high of $5,595 reached on Thursday to an intraday low of $4,941, while silver plummeted more than 17% at its trough, crashing through the psychological $100 support level to touch $95.
The primary catalyst for the reversal was the strengthening of the U.S. dollar following President Trump’s announcement that he would nominate former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh to succeed Jerome Powell. Warsh, who is viewed by many market participants as a “hawkish” choice compared to other potential candidates, is expected to prioritize shrinking the Fed’s balance sheet and maintaining institutional credibility, which cooled recent bets on aggressive dollar debasement.
According to market strategists, the move was intensified by technical factors. Goldman Sachs analysts previously highlighted that the recent rally was mechanically reinforced by record buying of call options. As the price turned, the unwinding of these positions created a “delta-hedging” cascade, forcing further selling. Copper also fell more than 3% in London, reflecting a broader retreat from industrial and precious commodities that had reached overextended valuations throughout January.
“Gold pulled back toward the $5,000 level as investors reassessed positioning ahead of the official announcement,” said Konstantinos Chrysikos, Head of CRM at Kudotrade. “While the correction was sharp, the metal had gained more than 20% since the start of the month, making it a classic ‘sell the news’ event once the Fed leadership uncertainty was resolved.”
Despite the volatility, some analysts maintain a bullish long-term outlook. While the immediate “fear premium” related to Fed independence and government shutdown risks has subsided, structural demand from central banks in emerging markets remains a pillar of support. However, the breach of key technical levels at $5,000 for gold and $100 for silver suggests that the market may enter a period of consolidation as traders wait for Warsh’s confirmation hearings and further signals on the 2026 interest rate path.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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Bitcoin’s $82K Dip: Liquidations, Outflows, and Recovery Signals
Bitcoin fell to a nine-month low of $82,134, down 7.4% in 24 hours, amid a broad market selloff driven by geopolitical tensions and U.S. policy uncertainty.
The price drop triggered $1.7 billion in crypto liquidations, with over 90% from long positions, highlighting over-leveraged trading risks.
U.S. spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs saw combined outflows nearing $1 billion in a single day, marking one of the worst sessions of 2026.
Bitcoin (BTC) extended its decline on January 29, 2026, slipping to $82,134—a level not seen in nine months—as macroeconomic headwinds and geopolitical developments fueled a risk-off sentiment across global markets.
The drop wiped out 7.4% of its value in just 24 hours, pushing the total crypto market capitalization down by 6.7% and resulting in $1.68 billion in liquidated positions, predominantly longs.
The cascade of liquidations, totaling over $1.7 billion across exchanges, underscores the dangers of leveraged trading in volatile conditions.
Bitcoin Plunges to $81K Bitcoin dropped to a nine-month low amid geopolitical tensions and tech selloffs, triggering $1.7 billion in liquidations.
— Cryptopress (@CryptoPress_ok) January 30, 2026
Analysts note that thin liquidity amplified the move, with sell-side pressure overwhelming buy orders. Ethereum (ETH) also suffered, dropping similarly amid the broader rout.
U.S.-listed spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs faced heavy redemptions, with outflows reaching $817.9 million for Bitcoin products and $155.6 million for Ether, combining for nearly $1 billion in a single day—the worst since November 2025. BlackRock’s IBIT and Grayscale’s GBTC led the exits, reflecting institutional caution amid rising volatility and macro uncertainty. This extends a streak of negative flows, with Bitcoin ETFs shedding $1.33 billion over the prior week.
In a counter move, Binance announced it will convert its $1 billion Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) from stablecoins to Bitcoin over the next 30 days, framing it as a long-term bet on the asset’s resilience.
An open letter to the crypto community During periods of market volatility and pressure, the impact felt across the industry is naturally also felt by Binance.As a global industry leader, we hold ourselves to elevated standards and continually improve based on feedback from… pic.twitter.com/HvWEQYjuKZ
— Binance (@binance) January 30, 2026
The exchange committed to monitoring the fund and replenishing it if Bitcoin’s price fluctuations drop its value below $800 million. “This shift supports our vision for industry growth,” a Binance spokesperson stated. However, critics warn that exposing user protection to Bitcoin’s volatility could introduce new risks if prices fall further.
Market watchers attribute the downturn to a mix of factors, including speculation around U.S. President Trump’s potential nomination of inflation hawk Kevin Warsh as Fed Chair, escalating U.S.-Iran tensions, and a strengthening U.S. dollar pressuring risk assets.While some see this as a healthy correction after recent gains, others caution of potential further downside if key supports like $80,000 break. Balanced views suggest consolidation could reset over-leveraged positions, paving the way for recovery if inflows resume.
For context, see related coverage on market volatility at https://cryptopress.site/crypto-weekly-snapshot-key-news-shaking-crypto.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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El Salvador Expands Reserves With $50 Million Gold Purchase As Bitcoin Accumulation Continues
The Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador (BCR) purchased 9,298 troy ounces of gold, valued at approximately $50 million, to strengthen its international reserves.
The acquisition brings the nation’s total gold holdings to 67,403 ounces, worth roughly $360 million at current market prices.
Despite recent legal amendments making Bitcoin acceptance voluntary to satisfy IMF loan conditions, the government continues its 1 BTC per day accumulation strategy.
The Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador has executed a $50 million gold purchase, marking a significant step in the nation’s strategy to diversify its sovereign assets. According to official data from the BCR, the bank acquired 9,298 troy ounces of the precious metal, pushing the total value of the country’s gold stash to approximately $360 million. The move reflects a broader trend among global central banks to hedge against macroeconomic volatility through “hard” assets.
This latest purchase follows a period of strategic rebalancing for the Salvadoran treasury. While the country made headlines in late 2025 for its first major gold acquisition in decades, this new tranche signals a sustained commitment to traditional reserve assets. President Nayib Bukele, a vocal proponent of Bitcoin, acknowledged the move on social media, framing the acquisition as a way to maintain a “prudent balance” within the nation’s portfolio.
“This acquisition represents a long-term positioning, based on a prudent balance in the composition of the assets that make up the country’s international reserves,” the BCR stated in a release. The bank emphasized that gold remains a “universally strategic asset” that helps protect the local economy from structural changes in international markets.
The pivot toward gold comes at a delicate time for El Salvador’s relationship with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). To secure a $1.4 billion loan agreement, the Salvadoran government recently passed legislative reforms that scaled back the mandatory nature of Bitcoin use. Under the new framework, private businesses are no longer required to accept the cryptocurrency, and tax payments are prioritized in U.S. dollars. However, the government has not abandoned its digital asset ambitions.
On-chain data from Arkham Intelligence confirms that El Salvador’s national treasury continues to add one bitcoin per day to its reserves, in line with Bukele’s 2022 pledge. As of late January 2026, the national strategic Bitcoin reserve holds approximately 7,547 BTC, valued at over $635 million. The dual-track strategy of holding both gold and Bitcoin appears designed to satisfy international lenders while maintaining a high-upside bet on the digital asset economy.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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JPMorgan Strategist Projects Gold Could Surge to $8,500 on Portfolio Allocation Shift
JPMorgan strategist Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou projects a theoretical gold price of $8,000 to $8,500 if private investor allocations rise from 3% to 4.6%. Gold prices hit a record high near $5,600 per ounce on Jan. 29, 2026, following a 10% surge over just four trading sessions. The rally is driven by central bank demand, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and a structural shift where gold replaces the bond portion of balanced portfolios.Gold prices could more than double from current record levels if private investors continue to pivot away from traditional fixed-income assets in favor of the precious metal, according to JPMorgan Chase & Co. global market strategist Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou. In a note released Thursday, the analyst suggested that an increase in private investor allocations from the current 3% to 4.6% of total portfolios would imply a theoretical price range of $8,000 to $8,500 per ounce.The projection follows a historic week for bullion, which surged past the $5,000 milestone on Monday and reached an intraday peak near $5,600 by Jan. 29. This rapid ascent has been fueled by a “perfect storm” of monetary support—with the Federal Reserve maintaining interest rates at 3.50%–3.75%—and intensifying geopolitical uncertainty, particularly involving the U.S. and Iran. Panigirtzoglou noted that gold is increasingly being viewed as a viable substitute for the bond component of a 60/40 portfolio, as investors seek to hedge against currency debasement and sovereign debt risks.Despite the long-term bullish outlook, the report cautioned that short-term volatility may be imminent. Momentum traders and commodity trading advisers (CTAs) are currently heavily positioned in both gold and silver, raising the risk of mean reversion or profit-taking. However, compared to other alternative assets like bitcoin or silver, JPMorgan highlighted gold’s superior liquidity and market breadth as key factors attracting institutional interest.“This 4.6% allocation to gold would imply a theoretical price of $8,000-$8,500,” Panigirtzoglou wrote, explaining that the metal is regaining relevance as an all-weather store of value at a time when confidence in traditional paper hedges is weakening. While the road to such levels may be volatile, the structural trend of central bank buying—estimated at 755 tonnes for 2026—provides a firm floor for the market.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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Bitcoin Slumps 5% Amid Market Jitters Over US Regulatory Deadlock
Bitcoin (BTC) dropped approximately 5% within a 24-hour window, hitting a intraday low near $94,000.
The decline coincides with reports of growing deadlock in the U.S. Senate regarding the much-anticipated crypto market structure bill.
Traders point to a “sell-the-news” reaction and cooling spot ETF inflows as primary drivers for the sudden volatility.
Bitcoin faced a sharp correction on Thursday, retreating from recent highs as political and regulatory uncertainty in Washington weighed on investor sentiment. The primary cryptocurrency fell roughly 5%, dropping from a stable position above $98,000 to trade near $94,300 by late afternoon, according to market data from major exchanges. This downward move triggered a cascade of liquidations in the leveraged long positions, further accelerating the price slide.
The sudden reversal appears to be driven by concerns over the Senate’s crypto market structure bill. While the industry had high hopes for a swift passage in early 2026, reports suggest that partisan squabbles and shifting priorities toward midterm elections have stalled negotiations. This legislative inertia has created a vacuum of uncertainty for institutional players who were banking on clearer compliance frameworks before increasing their exposure to the asset class.
Beyond the legislative landscape, macroeconomic factors are contributing to the pressure. Recent inflation data remains stickier than expected, leading some analysts to speculate that the Federal Reserve may maintain higher interest rates for longer than previously forecast. This environment typically favors the U.S. dollar over risk assets like cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, the record-breaking spot Bitcoin ETF inflows seen earlier in the month have begun to plateau, reducing the consistent buy-side pressure that had characterized the year’s opening weeks.
“The market was arguably overextended, and the lack of a clear ‘green light’ from D.C. gave the bears the opening they needed,” noted one senior market analyst. “We are seeing a re-evaluation of risk as the reality of a slow-moving legislative process sets in for 2026.”
Despite the dip, long-term on-chain metrics remain relatively stable, suggesting that while short-term speculators are exiting, long-term holders are yet to show signs of a mass exodus. Technical support is currently being watched closely at the $92,000 level, which served as a significant floor during previous volatility spikes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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White House to Host Crypto and Banking Summit Amid Stalled Market Structure Bill
The White House is convening executives from the banking and crypto sectors to address key disputes in the stalled CLARITY Act, focusing on stablecoin regulations and yields.
White House intervention: A summit hosted by the administration’s crypto council is set for February 2 to discuss the delayed market structure bill. Core dispute: Regulations on stablecoin yields and rewards, with banks concerned about deposit outflows. Industry hopes: The meeting could pave the way for compromise and advance bipartisan legislation. The White House is taking a…
ERC-8004: Ethereum’s Bid to Create a Secure AI Economy
Ethereum’s new ERC-8004 standard introduces portable identities and reputations for AI agents, fostering trustless interactions and a decentralized AI economy. Ethereum is deploying the ERC-8004 standard on mainnet this week, aimed at enhancing AI agent interactions. The standard enables AI agents to carry portable identities and reputations across chains and organizations without centralized control. This development could accelerate the integration of AI with blockchain, creating new opportunities for decentralized applications. In… Read more: Cryptopress.site/crypto/erc-8004-ethereums-bid-to-create-a-secure-ai-economy/
Moltbot Creator Peter Steinberger Rejects Memecoin Launches, Warns of Impersonation Scams
AI developer Peter Steinberger, behind the viral Moltbot project, publicly disavows cryptocurrency tokens and cautions against scams claiming association with his work amid ongoing harassment.
Peter Steinberger firmly rejects memecoin involvement: The Moltbot creator states he will never launch a token and labels any claiming his ownership as scams.Fake Solana tokens emerge: Impersonation memecoins like $CLAWD surged in value before crashing following his public denial.Harassment damages project: Persistent crypto community outreach hinders development of the open-source AI assistant.Broader industry concern: Case exemplifies reputational risks for non-crypto builders targeted by unsolicited token launches.
Peter Steinberger, the developer behind the rapidly popular open-source AI personal assistant Moltbot—formerly known as Clawdbot—issued a strong public statement on X denouncing harassment from the cryptocurrency community and warning against scam tokens impersonating his project. In his January 27 post, Steinberger addressed “crypto folks” directly: “Please stop pinging me, stop harassing me. I will never do a coin. Any project that lists me as coin owner is a SCAM. No, I will not accept fees. You are actively damaging the project.” The viral AI agent, which recently underwent a rename due to trademark conflicts, has attracted significant attention for its advanced autonomous capabilities. However, the transition provided an opening for opportunistic launches of unauthorized memecoins on Solana-based platforms such as pump.fun. Several tokens falsely tied to Steinberger or his project appeared, with one reaching a multimillion-dollar market capitalization before plummeting after his explicit disavowal. These impersonations exemplify a recurring issue in the memecoin sector, where developers outside crypto are targeted without consent. Steinberger’s frustration highlights a tension in the ecosystem: while memecoins can drive community engagement and liquidity on chains like Solana, aggressive solicitation and fraudulent associations risk alienating innovative builders focused on technology rather than speculation. Reactions within the community varied, with many expressing support for Steinberger and criticizing the tactics that contribute to crypto’s negative perception among mainstream developers. As intersections between AI and blockchain grow, such incidents underscore the challenges of protecting project integrity in decentralized environments. #clawdbotsaysnotoken
March FOMC Meeting Looms as Potential Catalyst for Crypto Market Pivot
Crypto investors are shifting focus to the March FOMC meeting as expectations for a rate cut rise to 52%, potentially sparking a fresh risk-on rally for Bitcoin and altcoins. Interest rate expectations for the January meeting suggest a “dovish pause,” keeping the fed funds rate at 3.50%–3.75%.Traders are pricing in a 52% probability of a rate cut at the March 17-18 FOMC meeting, according to prediction market data.Bitcoin remains rangebound near $88,000, with market sentiment stuck in “Fear” territory as participants await Jerome Powell’s 2026 policy guidance. As the Federal Reserve concludes its first policy gathering of 2026, the cryptocurrency market has entered a period of macro-driven suspense, with the upcoming March FOMC meeting emerging as the primary decider for the industry’s short-term direction. While the consensus among economists is a hold on interest rates this week, the prospect of the Fed signaling a faster rate-cutting cycle later this quarter has traders preparing for a potential return of retail-driven liquidity. Following a volatile end to 2025 that saw Bitcoin retreat nearly 30% from its October highs, the market has struggled to reclaim its momentum. Current data suggests that liquidity conditions remain the dominant factor for digital assets. “The Fed’s interest rate decision is one of the main catalysts for the crypto space in 2026,” noted Owen Lau, managing director at Clear Street. According to Lau, both retail and institutional investors are likely to show increased appetite for risk assets if the central bank continues to ease monetary policy. The market is currently split on the Fed’s trajectory for the remainder of the year. While the CME FedWatch Tool and platforms like Polymarket indicate only a marginal chance of a cut in January, the odds for a March reduction have climbed significantly. Analysts at TD Securities suggest that while Chair Jerome Powell may sound noncommittal in the near term, the median Fed official still favors easing this year to manage labor market softening. Such a shift would be a boon for Bitcoin, which has historically thrived in environments of expanding global liquidity. Conversely, a more hawkish stance—driven by concerns over sticky inflation or geopolitical tariff impacts—could dampen hopes for a spring rally. A failure to signal cuts in March might lead to a prolonged period of short-term volatility and a further test of support levels near the $85,000 mark. Some institutional reports, including those from Coinbase Institutional, suggest the market is currently in a “risk-defense” mode, with investors prioritizing options hedging over aggressive leverage. Ultimately, the crypto market’s ability to break out of its current range depends on whether the Fed prioritizes economic growth over inflation targets. If the March meeting confirms a transition back to a simultaneous easing cycle, the “four-year cycle” narrative may see a resurgence, potentially pushing digital asset valuations toward new records in the first half of 2026. #fedwatch
ZachXBT Links $40M Crypto Theft from US Government Wallets to Contractor’s Son
Blockchain sleuth ZachXBT has exposed an alleged $40 million theft from US government seizure addresses, tied to the son of a federal crypto custody contractor, sparking a Marshals Service probe. ZachXBT alleges John ‘Lick’ Daghita siphoned over $40 million from US government-controlled wallets holding seized digital assets. The suspect is the son of Dean Daghita, president of CMDSS, a firm contracted by the US Marshals Service for crypto management. The exposure stemmed from a Telegram dispute where Daghita flaunted wallet balances, leading to on-chain tracing that linked fun… #BTC (Read more on Cryptopress.site)
DXY Drops to 4-Month Low: Potential Tailwind for Bitcoin Prices
The US Dollar Index (DXY) fell to its lowest level in four months, nearing the 97 mark.
Dollar weakness often acts as a catalyst for Bitcoin and other risk assets.
Bitcoin’s current price action is mixed, pressured by major crypto ETP outflows ($1.7 billion) and general risk-off sentiment.
Gold has significantly outperformed crypto, surging past $5,000 amid macro uncertainty.
The US Dollar Index (DXY) continued its descent, reaching a four-month low near 97 on January 26, 2026. This dip signals growing market anticipation that the Federal Reserve may adopt a more dovish monetary policy stance soon.
The index’s decline below key technical levels has historically created a favorable environment for risk assets, including Bitcoin, as a weaker dollar typically drives capital toward alternatives perceived as inflation hedges. A soft dollar often correlates inversely with BTC prices.
DXY Hits 4-Month LowThe US Dollar Index dropped to its lowest in four months, potentially supporting upward momentum for Bitcoin.
— Cryptopress (@CryptoPress_ok) January 26, 2026
However, Bitcoin’s response has been underwhelming. Trading near $87,000, BTC is struggling under the weight of recent negative flows; exchange-traded products (ETPs) saw net outflows totaling $1.7 billion last week, the largest such exodus since November 2025. This indicates persistent risk aversion in the market.
In a notable divergence, traditional safe-haven assets like gold have surged, crossing the $5,000 threshold. This suggests investors are favoring established hard assets over digital assets during this period of macroeconomic and geopolitical apprehension.
While the DXY’s technical breakdown provides a potential long-term tailwind for Bitcoin (BTC), immediate price action remains constrained by derivatives positioning and broader market sentiment. Traders are keenly awaiting the Fed’s policy update for definitive direction.
Major altcoins, including Ethereum (ETH), are mirroring the cautious trading pattern observed in the flagship cryptocurrency.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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The crypto market is currently experiencing heightened volatility, with overall capitalization dipping to around $3 trillion amid broader economic uncertainties. Major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum have seen significant corrections, driven by macroeconomic factors including potential tariffs and Federal Reserve decisions. While some sectors show resilience through institutional buys, the sentiment remains fearful, as indicated by the Fear & Greed Index at 25/100. This environment presents a mix of risks and potential rebound opportunities as regulatory developments unfold.
Trump Tariff Turmoil
The primary driver this week has been the widespread crypto selloff, fueled by Trump-era tariff turmoil and escalating global risk sentiment. Bitcoin, the market leader, tumbled from above $90,000 to as low as $86,000, triggering over $550 million in liquidations across the ecosystem. This downturn coincides with a U.S. government shutdown risk and anticipation around the Federal Reserve’s rate decision, which could signal a pause in cuts and further pressure risk assets. Ethereum and Solana followed suit, with ETH dropping 5% and SOL 7% in 24 hours, reflecting a broader flight to safety as investors pivot to assets like gold, which hit new highs.
Compounding the selloff, Bitcoin ETFs faced massive outflows of $1.33 billion last week, a stark reversal from prior inflows that had bolstered prices. This cash exodus, amid illusory market depth during “toxic” trading hours, has created a liquidation treadmill where risky positions are hunted, perpetuating the downtrend. Analysts warn that without a dovish Fed pivot or resolution to tariff concerns, the market could face extended consolidation, though historical patterns suggest rebounds following such corrections.
Other news:
Positive
MicroStrategy bolstered its Bitcoin holdings with a $264 million purchase, signaling continued corporate confidence.
Ark Invest scooped up $21.5 million in shares of Coinbase, Circle, and Bullish, betting on long-term crypto infrastructure growth.
Japan’s upcoming crypto ETFs by 2028 could inject $6.4 billion, expanding institutional access.
Metaplanet upwardly revised its FY2026 revenue forecast to over $100 million, driven by Bitcoin-related income.
Neutral
A long-dormant Ethereum whale moved $145 million in ETH, potentially indicating strategic repositioning without clear market impact.
Solana’s ecosystem is pivoting toward finance applications, as stated by Backpack CEO, aiming for deeper integration.
Ledger is plotting a $4 billion NYSE IPO, highlighting maturation in crypto hardware sector.
BlackRock ceded tokenized Treasury market lead to Circle due to mechanical factors in settlement processes.
Negative
Solana faces a critical flaw that could enable hackers to stall the network, eroding trust in its scalability.
Privacy coins like Monero and Zcash plunged, with losses up to 11.4%, amid broader regulatory scrutiny fears.
Deloitte highlighted risks in tokenized settlements that could facilitate undetectable market manipulation.
Failing crypto exchanges may face new regulations preventing withdrawal delays, exposing operational weaknesses.
Big Movers
The most notable movers in the past 24 hours include ZetaChain surging 27.84% as a top gainer, potentially driven by ecosystem expansions, alongside River up 27.6% and Axie Infinity rising 11.29% amid gaming sector revival. On the downside, MYX Finance led losses with a 13.4% drop, followed by pump.fun at 12.2% and Monero at 11.4%, reflecting privacy coin vulnerabilities. Buying opportunities may exist in major dips, such as Bitcoin’s current oversold state below $88,000, offering entry points for long-term holders anticipating Fed clarity; Ethereum at $2,800 presents similar value amid whale activity.
Decisions by monetary authorities influence the Bitcoin rate.
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85% of Institutions Testing or Using Distributed Validators, Obol Survey Finds
Obol’s 2025 survey reveals 85% of institutions are testing or already using Distributed Validators (DVs).
The data comes from over 75 major institutions, many managing billions in assets.
Distributed Validators split duties across nodes to enhance resilience and reduce slashing risks.
Obol’s DVs now secure billions in ETH stake, recently exceeding 700,000 ETH.
Institutional adoption of Ethereum staking infrastructure is accelerating, with 85% of surveyed institutions either testing or actively using Distributed Validators according to Obol’s latest report.
The finding comes from the 2025 Ethereum Institutional Staking Survey, conducted by Obol Collective and released in September 2025. The survey polled more than 75 leading institutions — many overseeing over $1 billion in assets — and underscores DVs as the preferred choice for secure, decentralized staking operations. (Obol Blog)
Distributed Validators represent a key innovation in Ethereum staking: they distribute validator key shares and duties across multiple independent nodes, mitigating risks from hardware failures, geographic centralization, or operational errors that can lead to slashing penalties in traditional setups. Obol pioneered this technology and brought it to mainnet, positioning it as a foundational layer for institutional-grade staking. (Obol.org)
The survey results align with Obol’s ecosystem momentum. As of Q3 2025, validators using Obol’s Distributed Validator technology had surpassed 700,000 ETH in secured stake — equivalent to roughly 1.98% of Ethereum’s total staked supply at the time — demonstrating tangible growth in adoption. (Obol Q3 Ecosystem Report)
Industry observers note that this shift reflects broader maturation in Ethereum’s staking ecosystem, where institutions prioritize uptime, security, and decentralization over simpler solo staking or centralized providers. While the data originates from Obol (an active participant in DV development), it is consistent with increasing institutional inflows into ETH staking products. Risks such as coordination complexity among nodes and evolving protocol changes remain, but the survey suggests strong confidence in the approach.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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Solana Mobile’s SKR Token Surges 300% Following Seeker Smartphone Airdrop
Solana Mobile launched the SKR token on January 21, 2026, serving as the native utility and governance asset for the Seeker smartphone ecosystem.
The token price surged over 300% within 48 hours of launch, reaching a peak of approximately $0.059 before entering a consolidation phase.
Approximately 2 billion SKR tokens (20% of the total supply) were airdropped to more than 100,000 Seeker users and 188 developers.
Solana Mobile has officially entered its next phase of hardware-software integration with the launch of SKR, the native token for its second-generation Seeker smartphone. Following its debut on Wednesday, the token experienced a parabolic rally, climbing from an initial listing price of approximately $0.006 to over $0.050. The surge was fueled by a combination of tier-1 exchange listings on platforms like Coinbase and MEXC, and high demand for its integrated staking rewards.
The SKR token is designed to power the “reward layer” of the Solana mobile economy. With a fixed total supply of 10 billion, the asset facilitates decentralized governance, dApp store incentives, and staking. Early data indicates that over 50% of the circulating supply was immediately staked by users looking to capitalize on inflation rewards distributed every 48 hours. This high staking rate helped offset initial selling pressure from airdrop recipients who received 30% of the initial supply.
According to on-chain analysis from Nansen and CoinMarketCap, “whale” addresses absorbed roughly 182 million SKR shortly after launch, countering the 129 million tokens moved to exchanges by retail airdrop claimants. This institutional-style accumulation provided a price floor near the $0.038 support level during the first major bout of profit-taking.
“Seeker and SKR are a bet that there’s another way for mobile: that the people who use the network should own the network,” Solana Mobile stated during the launch announcement. “Today, over 100,000 of you can claim your stake in that future.”
The $500 Seeker device, which has reportedly secured over 150,000 pre-orders, serves as a hardware security module through its Seed Vault. Unlike the original Saga phone, the Seeker is positioned as a DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network) hub, with the SKR token incentivizing users to maintain active nodes and engage with the integrated dApp store without the 30% fees typical of traditional mobile platforms.
While the token’s 24-hour trading volume exceeded $250 million at its peak, analysts warn of potential volatility as the 90-day airdrop claim window remains open. The long-term sustainability of SKR’s valuation will likely depend on the continued adoption of the Seeker hardware and the growth of mobile-specific decentralized applications within the Solana ecosystem.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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Bitcoin Payments Hindered By Tax Policy, Not Scaling Tech, Says Crypto Executive
Pierre Rochard, a board member at Bitcoin treasury firm Strive, argues that tax policy, rather than technical scaling, is the primary hurdle for Bitcoin payments.
The absence of a de minimis tax exemption for small transactions creates a significant reporting burden for everyday users.
U.S. lawmakers are reportedly considering exemptions for stablecoins while excluding Bitcoin, a move facing pushback from the industry.
The primary challenge to Bitcoin’s adoption as a mainstream payment method lies in unfavorable tax policy rather than technological limitations, according to Pierre Rochard, a board member of Bitcoin treasury company Strive. While scaling solutions like the Lightning Network have matured, the requirement to track and report capital gains on every small purchase remains a deterrent for users.
Speaking on the current state of digital asset payments, Rochard highlighted that the lack of a de minimis tax exemption—which would allow minor transactions to go untaxed—forces Bitcoin holders to calculate the cost basis for every cup of coffee or small retail purchase. “It’s not a scaling problem anymore; it’s a policy problem,” Rochard noted, suggesting that the technical infrastructure is ready for global commerce, but the regulatory friction is not.
The debate comes as U.S. lawmakers contemplate new frameworks for digital assets. Recent reports suggest that some legislators are considering a tax exemption specifically for overcollateralized dollar-pegged stablecoins. This proposal has met with sharp criticism from Bitcoin advocates who argue it creates an unlevel playing field. Marty Bent, co-founder of Truth for the Commoner, described the potential exclusion of Bitcoin from such exemptions as “nonsensical.”
The push for a $300 de minimis threshold has gained some traction in Washington. In July 2025, Senator Cynthia Lummis introduced legislation advocating for an exemption on transactions under $300, capped at $5,000 annually. Industry leaders, including Block founder Jack Dorsey, have previously voiced support for such measures, arguing that Bitcoin must become “everyday money” to fulfill its original whitepaper promise.
Without these changes, Bitcoin remains largely relegated to a store of value or “digital gold” role in the eyes of many investors. Critics of the current tax regime argue that treating every satoshi spent as a taxable event effectively kills the utility of the network for micro-payments, regardless of how fast or cheap the underlying scaling technology becomes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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Grayscale Files S-1 With SEC to Launch Spot BNB ETF on Nasdaq
Grayscale Investments has taken a significant step in broadening access to altcoin assets by filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to launch a spot exchange-traded fund (ETF) tracking BNB, the native cryptocurrency of the BNB Chain ecosystem.
The registration statement (Form S-1) outlines the creation of the Grayscale BNB Trust, which would hold BNB directly and seek to mirror its market price, minus fees and expenses. This structure mirrors Grayscale’s successful spot Bitcoin and Ether ETFs, providing investors a familiar, regulated vehicle for exposure without managing wallets, private keys, or custody risks associated with direct crypto holdings.
The filing arrives amid a wave of altcoin ETF interest following approvals for Bitcoin and Ether products. It closely trails VanEck’s prior submission for a BNB-focused ETF, indicating growing asset manager competition to offer diversified crypto baskets to institutional and retail investors.
Key implications include potential increased liquidity and mainstream adoption for BNB, which powers transaction fees, staking, and governance on one of the largest smart contract platforms. However, the path to approval remains uncertain, as the SEC has historically applied heightened scrutiny to tokens beyond Bitcoin and Ether due to concerns over market manipulation, custody standards, and classification.
If approved, the ETF would list on Nasdaq, subject to the exchange submitting a 19b-4 rule change proposal for SEC review. This dual process—S-1 for registration and 19b-4 for listing—has become standard for spot crypto ETFs.
Grayscale’s move reflects confidence in evolving regulatory clarity and BNB’s established utility in decentralized applications, though investors should note that no timeline for SEC decision has been provided, and past altcoin proposals have faced delays or modifications.
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Inside Ethereum’s Race Against Quantum Computing Risks
The Ethereum Foundation has established a Post-Quantum (PQ) team led by Thomas Coratger to prioritize network security against quantum threats.
Two $1 million prizes—the Poseidon and Proximity Prizes—aim to advance hash-based cryptography research.
Ongoing devnets, workshops, and a roadmap ensure a seamless transition to quantum-resistant features without downtime or fund loss.
The Ethereum Foundation is intensifying its defenses against emerging quantum computing risks, announcing a new Post-Quantum (PQ) security team and substantial funding commitments.
EF researcher Justin Drake revealed the initiative in an X post, elevating PQ security to a top strategic priority after years of foundational research starting in 2019. The team, headed by Thomas Coratger with Emile from leanVM, focuses on integrating quantum-resistant cryptography into Ethereum’s core.
Today marks an inflection in the Ethereum Foundation's long-term quantum strategy.We've formed a new Post Quantum (PQ) team, led by the brilliant Thomas Coratger (@tcoratger). Joining him is Emile, one of the world-class talents behind leanVM. leanVM is the cryptographic…
— Justin Drake (@drakefjustin) January 23, 2026
Key to the strategy are two major awards: the $1 million Poseidon Prize to fortify the Poseidon hash function and the $1 million Proximity Prize for proximity-related innovations. This emphasizes Ethereum’s reliance on hash-based cryptography for lean, robust quantum defenses.
Progress includes live multi-client PQ consensus devnets supported by teams like Lighthouse and Grandine, with bi-weekly All Core Devs calls on PQ transactions set to begin next month. These will address user-facing security elements such as dedicated precompiles and account abstraction.
The foundation is also organizing expert workshops, including a 3-day event in October and a PQ day on March 29 ahead of EthCC in Cannes, to foster global collaboration. A detailed PQ roadmap will soon launch on pq.ethereum.org, outlining a full transition with zero downtime and no loss of funds.
“It’s now 2026, timelines are accelerating. Time to go full PQ,” stated Justin Drake, highlighting the urgency amid warnings from Vitalik Buterin about potential ECDSA breaks by 2028. (X post by Justin Drake)
This proactive approach contrasts with ongoing debates in the Bitcoin community over quantum timelines. For broader context on quantum-resistant efforts, see projects like Zcash and MANTRA (OM).
Related article from CryptoPress: Quantum-Resistant Cryptocurrencies: The Projects Leading the Charge in 2026
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice of any kind. Readers should conduct their own research before making any decisions.
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