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A guide to Cryptocurrencies, Technology and the Blockchain Economy #cryptocurrency #blockchain #fintech
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Spot Trading Volume Climbs 10% in January 2026 While Derivatives Market Holds Steady
TLDR:
Spot trading volume on major crypto exchanges rose approximately 10% in January 2026 versus December 2025.
Bitfinex led all exchanges with a 67% spot trading surge, followed by Uniswap at 62% and Upbit at 44%.
Derivatives trading volume grew just 0.5% month-on-month, with Hyperliquid posting the top gain at 46%.
Website traffic across major exchanges fell 0.3%, with HTX recording the steepest drop at 22% in January.
January crypto exchange volumes painted a mixed picture across major trading platforms in early 2026. Spot trading jumped 10% month-on-month, derivatives remained nearly flat at 0.5%, and website traffic across major exchanges dipped 0.3%, per Wu Blockchain data.
Spot Trading Jumps 10% With Notable Gains Across Select Exchanges
January crypto exchange volumes reflected a recovery in spot market activity compared to December 2025. The 10% overall increase came as several exchanges posted sharp month-on-month gains.
Others, however, recorded notable declines that offset some of the broader market growth. The data, sourced from CoinGecko, was processed to account for wash trading and bot-related activity.
Bitfinex recorded the strongest spot trading growth among all exchanges in January 2026, rising 67%. Uniswap followed with a 62% month-on-month gain, while Upbit posted a 44% increase over the same period.
These three exchanges drove much of the overall 10% rise seen across the broader spot market.
Wu Blockchain published the monthly exchange report on X, noting that preprocessing was applied to the dataset. The adjustments included outlier removal, metric normalization, and methodological changes.
January Exchange Data Report: In January 2026, spot trading volume on major exchanges rose about 10% compared to December 2025, with the highest growth seen at Bitfinex (+67%), Uniswap (+62%), and Upbit (+44%). Derivatives trading volume increased about 0.5% month-over-month, led… pic.twitter.com/ceJt2Kc9oj
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) February 17, 2026
These steps were taken to reduce the effect of artificial trading activity on the final figures. The firm cited CoinGecko for both spot and derivatives data in the report.
Not all exchanges benefited from the January surge in spot trading activity. HTX posted the steepest decline among tracked platforms, falling 17% month-on-month.
Bybit dropped 16%, and KuCoin recorded a 14% decrease in spot trading volume over the same period.
Derivatives Trading Stays Flat While Traffic Data Shows Modest Shifts
January crypto exchange volumes in the derivatives segment showed little movement, gaining just 0.5% over December 2025. The near-flat result came despite strong performances from a few individual platforms.
Wide variation across exchanges kept the overall figure from moving in either direction meaningfully. The derivatives market showed more stability than the spot segment throughout the month.
Hyperliquid led derivatives trading growth in January 2026 with a 46% month-on-month increase in volume. Crypto.com followed with an 18% gain, and Gate posted an 11% rise during the same period.
Their performances helped counterbalance the sharp declines recorded at other exchanges in the derivatives segment.
MEXC saw the largest drop in derivatives trading volume among tracked exchanges, falling 27% in January 2026. KuCoin declined 17% month-on-month, while Deribit posted an 8% decrease over the same period.
These three exchanges ranked at the bottom for derivatives volume changes in the January report.
Website traffic across major exchanges fell 0.3% in January 2026 compared to December 2025. Upbit led traffic growth with a 9% increase, while KuCoin and Bitfinex each gained 7%.
HTX recorded the sharpest traffic drop at 22%, followed by Bitget at 9% and MEXC at 8%. Traffic figures in the report were sourced from Similarweb.
The post Spot Trading Volume Climbs 10% in January 2026 While Derivatives Market Holds Steady appeared first on Blockonomi.
Spot trading volume on major crypto exchanges rose approximately 10% in January 2026 versus December 2025.
Bitfinex led all exchanges with a 67% spot trading surge, followed by Uniswap at 62% and Upbit at 44%.
Derivatives trading volume grew just 0.5% month-on-month, with Hyperliquid posting the top gain at 46%.
Website traffic across major exchanges fell 0.3%, with HTX recording the steepest drop at 22% in January.
January crypto exchange volumes painted a mixed picture across major trading platforms in early 2026. Spot trading jumped 10% month-on-month, derivatives remained nearly flat at 0.5%, and website traffic across major exchanges dipped 0.3%, per Wu Blockchain data.
Spot Trading Jumps 10% With Notable Gains Across Select Exchanges
January crypto exchange volumes reflected a recovery in spot market activity compared to December 2025. The 10% overall increase came as several exchanges posted sharp month-on-month gains.
Others, however, recorded notable declines that offset some of the broader market growth. The data, sourced from CoinGecko, was processed to account for wash trading and bot-related activity.
Bitfinex recorded the strongest spot trading growth among all exchanges in January 2026, rising 67%. Uniswap followed with a 62% month-on-month gain, while Upbit posted a 44% increase over the same period.
These three exchanges drove much of the overall 10% rise seen across the broader spot market.
Wu Blockchain published the monthly exchange report on X, noting that preprocessing was applied to the dataset. The adjustments included outlier removal, metric normalization, and methodological changes.
January Exchange Data Report: In January 2026, spot trading volume on major exchanges rose about 10% compared to December 2025, with the highest growth seen at Bitfinex (+67%), Uniswap (+62%), and Upbit (+44%). Derivatives trading volume increased about 0.5% month-over-month, led… pic.twitter.com/ceJt2Kc9oj
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) February 17, 2026
These steps were taken to reduce the effect of artificial trading activity on the final figures. The firm cited CoinGecko for both spot and derivatives data in the report.
Not all exchanges benefited from the January surge in spot trading activity. HTX posted the steepest decline among tracked platforms, falling 17% month-on-month.
Bybit dropped 16%, and KuCoin recorded a 14% decrease in spot trading volume over the same period.
Derivatives Trading Stays Flat While Traffic Data Shows Modest Shifts
January crypto exchange volumes in the derivatives segment showed little movement, gaining just 0.5% over December 2025. The near-flat result came despite strong performances from a few individual platforms.
Wide variation across exchanges kept the overall figure from moving in either direction meaningfully. The derivatives market showed more stability than the spot segment throughout the month.
Hyperliquid led derivatives trading growth in January 2026 with a 46% month-on-month increase in volume. Crypto.com followed with an 18% gain, and Gate posted an 11% rise during the same period.
Their performances helped counterbalance the sharp declines recorded at other exchanges in the derivatives segment.
MEXC saw the largest drop in derivatives trading volume among tracked exchanges, falling 27% in January 2026. KuCoin declined 17% month-on-month, while Deribit posted an 8% decrease over the same period.
These three exchanges ranked at the bottom for derivatives volume changes in the January report.
Website traffic across major exchanges fell 0.3% in January 2026 compared to December 2025. Upbit led traffic growth with a 9% increase, while KuCoin and Bitfinex each gained 7%.
HTX recorded the sharpest traffic drop at 22%, followed by Bitget at 9% and MEXC at 8%. Traffic figures in the report were sourced from Similarweb.
The post Spot Trading Volume Climbs 10% in January 2026 While Derivatives Market Holds Steady appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin Long-Term Holders Realize Losses as Binance Inflows Hit Alarming Levels
TLDR:
Bitcoin’s LTH SOPR has dropped to 0.88, a level not seen since the close of the 2023 bear market cycle.
Long-term holders are now realizing losses on average, marking a sharp shift from historically resilient behavior.
Daily BTC inflows to Binance have reached twice the annual average across several consecutive days recently.
Rising exchange inflows from long-term holders signal sustained selling pressure that may weigh on Bitcoin’s short-term recovery.
Bitcoin long-term holders are beginning to feel the weight of a prolonged market correction. The asset remains more than 45% below its previous all-time high.
This sustained decline is creating financial pressure across a wide range of investors. Even the most resilient market participants are now adjusting their behavior in response. The shift marks a notable change for a group known for holding up under difficult conditions.
LTH SOPR Drops Below Key Threshold
The LTH Spent Output Profit Ratio (SOPR) has recently crossed below the critical level of 1. It currently sits at 0.88, a level not recorded since the close of the 2023 bear market.
This reading means long-term holders are, on average, selling at a loss. That alone represents a meaningful change in market behavior.
Analyst Darkfost noted in a post on X that the annual average LTH SOPR remains at 1.87. However, the short-term reading has moved well below that average.
The gap between the two figures reflects how quickly conditions have shifted. It points to growing financial strain within a historically patient group of investors.
The situation in Bitcoin continues to deteriorate, with the asset still trading more than 45% below its previous all time high.
This prolonged correction is putting pressure on a broad share of investors, and even long term holders are beginning to feel the effects of this… pic.twitter.com/gqrkyIjChf
— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) February 17, 2026
When long-term holders begin realizing losses, it often signals a deeper phase of market stress. These participants typically sell only when they see value or face genuine pressure.
A move into negative SOPR territory suggests the latter is increasingly the case. The trend warrants close attention from market observers.
The drop below 1.0 also carries weight because of the size of this investor group. Long-term holders control a substantial portion of Bitcoin’s circulating supply.
Their decisions carry more influence over price than those of short-term traders. A sustained pattern of loss realization could weigh on recovery efforts.
Rising Binance Inflows Point to Increased Activity
At the same time, long-term holder inflows to Binance have increased sharply in recent weeks. Daily inflows have reached roughly twice the annual average on several consecutive days.
This level of activity is considered exceptionally elevated by historical standards. It points to a clear and deliberate shift in behavior among this group.
Darkfost also noted that this pattern has been building since the last all-time high. The acceleration in recent weeks adds further context to the SOPR data.
Together, the two indicators tell a consistent story about how long-term holders are responding. They are actively managing their exposure rather than simply waiting out the correction.
Binance remains the platform of choice for this activity due to its liquidity. Large holders need deep markets to move significant volumes without major price disruption.
The exchange’s market depth makes it practical for participants managing large positions. Their preference for Binance is therefore a logical outcome of their size.
Rising inflows from long-term holders to exchanges are generally viewed as a bearish signal. More Bitcoin moving onto platforms increases the available supply for sale.
This dynamic could continue to apply downward pressure in the short to medium term. The market may need time before this adjustment phase runs its course.
The post Bitcoin Long-Term Holders Realize Losses as Binance Inflows Hit Alarming Levels appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin’s LTH SOPR has dropped to 0.88, a level not seen since the close of the 2023 bear market cycle.
Long-term holders are now realizing losses on average, marking a sharp shift from historically resilient behavior.
Daily BTC inflows to Binance have reached twice the annual average across several consecutive days recently.
Rising exchange inflows from long-term holders signal sustained selling pressure that may weigh on Bitcoin’s short-term recovery.
Bitcoin long-term holders are beginning to feel the weight of a prolonged market correction. The asset remains more than 45% below its previous all-time high.
This sustained decline is creating financial pressure across a wide range of investors. Even the most resilient market participants are now adjusting their behavior in response. The shift marks a notable change for a group known for holding up under difficult conditions.
LTH SOPR Drops Below Key Threshold
The LTH Spent Output Profit Ratio (SOPR) has recently crossed below the critical level of 1. It currently sits at 0.88, a level not recorded since the close of the 2023 bear market.
This reading means long-term holders are, on average, selling at a loss. That alone represents a meaningful change in market behavior.
Analyst Darkfost noted in a post on X that the annual average LTH SOPR remains at 1.87. However, the short-term reading has moved well below that average.
The gap between the two figures reflects how quickly conditions have shifted. It points to growing financial strain within a historically patient group of investors.
The situation in Bitcoin continues to deteriorate, with the asset still trading more than 45% below its previous all time high.
This prolonged correction is putting pressure on a broad share of investors, and even long term holders are beginning to feel the effects of this… pic.twitter.com/gqrkyIjChf
— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) February 17, 2026
When long-term holders begin realizing losses, it often signals a deeper phase of market stress. These participants typically sell only when they see value or face genuine pressure.
A move into negative SOPR territory suggests the latter is increasingly the case. The trend warrants close attention from market observers.
The drop below 1.0 also carries weight because of the size of this investor group. Long-term holders control a substantial portion of Bitcoin’s circulating supply.
Their decisions carry more influence over price than those of short-term traders. A sustained pattern of loss realization could weigh on recovery efforts.
Rising Binance Inflows Point to Increased Activity
At the same time, long-term holder inflows to Binance have increased sharply in recent weeks. Daily inflows have reached roughly twice the annual average on several consecutive days.
This level of activity is considered exceptionally elevated by historical standards. It points to a clear and deliberate shift in behavior among this group.
Darkfost also noted that this pattern has been building since the last all-time high. The acceleration in recent weeks adds further context to the SOPR data.
Together, the two indicators tell a consistent story about how long-term holders are responding. They are actively managing their exposure rather than simply waiting out the correction.
Binance remains the platform of choice for this activity due to its liquidity. Large holders need deep markets to move significant volumes without major price disruption.
The exchange’s market depth makes it practical for participants managing large positions. Their preference for Binance is therefore a logical outcome of their size.
Rising inflows from long-term holders to exchanges are generally viewed as a bearish signal. More Bitcoin moving onto platforms increases the available supply for sale.
This dynamic could continue to apply downward pressure in the short to medium term. The market may need time before this adjustment phase runs its course.
The post Bitcoin Long-Term Holders Realize Losses as Binance Inflows Hit Alarming Levels appeared first on Blockonomi.
Elemental Royalty Becomes First Public Gold Company to Pay Shareholder Dividends in Tether Gold (...
TLDR:
Elemental Royalty becomes the first public gold company globally to offer shareholder dividends payable in XAU₮.
XAU₮ is a physical gold-backed digital asset that combines gold’s stability with blockchain’s transferability and efficiency.
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino says XAU₮ dividends solve the long-standing challenge of integrating gold into modern finance models.
The move signals tokenized real-world assets are expanding beyond trading and entering mainstream corporate finance structures.
Tether Gold (XAU₮) has reached a historic milestone in both the gold and digital asset industries. On February 17, 2026, Tether announced that Elemental Royalty Corporation would offer shareholders dividends payable in XAU₮.
This makes Elemental the first publicly listed gold company globally to adopt tokenized gold for dividend distributions.
The move connects traditional gold ownership with blockchain-based financial infrastructure, opening a new chapter in how gold companies return value to investors.
Elemental Royalty Introduces a New Standard for Gold Dividends
Elemental Royalty Corporation is a publicly traded gold royalty company. The company has announced that shareholders can now elect to receive dividends denominated in XAU₮. This option gives investors direct exposure to physical gold rather than cash equivalents.
XAU₮ is a digital asset backed by physical gold. It combines the long-standing stability of gold with the efficiency and transferability of blockchain technology. As a result, the dividend structure aligns more closely with the company’s underlying gold assets.
Tether Gold (XAU₮) Enables Historic First-Ever Gold Dividend Distribution by a Public Gold Company. Elemental Royalty Corporation becomes the first gold company globally to offer shareholder dividends payable in XAU₮
Read more:https://t.co/ADwk99mUQb
— Tether (@tether) February 17, 2026
For decades, gold investors have sought more direct ways to participate in gold-linked value creation. This announcement addresses that need by enabling returns tied directly to gold. Shareholders also benefit from the flexibility of digital settlement through the blockchain.
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, commented on the development. He stated that integrating gold into modern financial distribution models has historically been difficult. According to Ardoino, using XAU₮ for shareholder dividends changes that dynamic entirely.
“Gold has always been one of the most trusted stores of value in the world, yet integrating it directly into modern financial distribution models has been difficult. Using XAU₮ for shareholder dividends changes that dynamic completely.” Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether
Tokenized Gold Moves Into Corporate Finance
The announcement marks a broader evolution for tokenized real-world assets. Tokenization has largely been associated with trading and investment products until now.
However, this move by Elemental brings it into the area of corporate finance and shareholder distributions.
XAU₮ is increasingly being used as a bridge between traditional commodities and digital financial infrastructure. This development shows how tokenized assets can support financial models that were previously difficult to execute. In turn, it helps expand access to gold in more practical ways.
The gold industry has traditionally operated through conventional financial systems. This announcement demonstrates that blockchain infrastructure can now support real-world corporate actions at a public company level. That is a concrete step forward for both industries.
As tokenized real-world assets continue to gain momentum globally, more companies may follow Elemental’s approach.
The combination of gold’s proven value and blockchain’s operational efficiency offers a model that is both accessible and transparent.
This development signals growing maturity in how digital assets interact with traditional financial markets.
The post Elemental Royalty Becomes First Public Gold Company to Pay Shareholder Dividends in Tether Gold (XAU₮) appeared first on Blockonomi.
Elemental Royalty becomes the first public gold company globally to offer shareholder dividends payable in XAU₮.
XAU₮ is a physical gold-backed digital asset that combines gold’s stability with blockchain’s transferability and efficiency.
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino says XAU₮ dividends solve the long-standing challenge of integrating gold into modern finance models.
The move signals tokenized real-world assets are expanding beyond trading and entering mainstream corporate finance structures.
Tether Gold (XAU₮) has reached a historic milestone in both the gold and digital asset industries. On February 17, 2026, Tether announced that Elemental Royalty Corporation would offer shareholders dividends payable in XAU₮.
This makes Elemental the first publicly listed gold company globally to adopt tokenized gold for dividend distributions.
The move connects traditional gold ownership with blockchain-based financial infrastructure, opening a new chapter in how gold companies return value to investors.
Elemental Royalty Introduces a New Standard for Gold Dividends
Elemental Royalty Corporation is a publicly traded gold royalty company. The company has announced that shareholders can now elect to receive dividends denominated in XAU₮. This option gives investors direct exposure to physical gold rather than cash equivalents.
XAU₮ is a digital asset backed by physical gold. It combines the long-standing stability of gold with the efficiency and transferability of blockchain technology. As a result, the dividend structure aligns more closely with the company’s underlying gold assets.
Tether Gold (XAU₮) Enables Historic First-Ever Gold Dividend Distribution by a Public Gold Company. Elemental Royalty Corporation becomes the first gold company globally to offer shareholder dividends payable in XAU₮
Read more:https://t.co/ADwk99mUQb
— Tether (@tether) February 17, 2026
For decades, gold investors have sought more direct ways to participate in gold-linked value creation. This announcement addresses that need by enabling returns tied directly to gold. Shareholders also benefit from the flexibility of digital settlement through the blockchain.
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, commented on the development. He stated that integrating gold into modern financial distribution models has historically been difficult. According to Ardoino, using XAU₮ for shareholder dividends changes that dynamic entirely.
“Gold has always been one of the most trusted stores of value in the world, yet integrating it directly into modern financial distribution models has been difficult. Using XAU₮ for shareholder dividends changes that dynamic completely.” Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether
Tokenized Gold Moves Into Corporate Finance
The announcement marks a broader evolution for tokenized real-world assets. Tokenization has largely been associated with trading and investment products until now.
However, this move by Elemental brings it into the area of corporate finance and shareholder distributions.
XAU₮ is increasingly being used as a bridge between traditional commodities and digital financial infrastructure. This development shows how tokenized assets can support financial models that were previously difficult to execute. In turn, it helps expand access to gold in more practical ways.
The gold industry has traditionally operated through conventional financial systems. This announcement demonstrates that blockchain infrastructure can now support real-world corporate actions at a public company level. That is a concrete step forward for both industries.
As tokenized real-world assets continue to gain momentum globally, more companies may follow Elemental’s approach.
The combination of gold’s proven value and blockchain’s operational efficiency offers a model that is both accessible and transparent.
This development signals growing maturity in how digital assets interact with traditional financial markets.
The post Elemental Royalty Becomes First Public Gold Company to Pay Shareholder Dividends in Tether Gold (XAU₮) appeared first on Blockonomi.
Coin Center Warns: Weakening BRCA Threatens Blockchain Innovation
TLDR:
BRCA ensures crypto developers cannot face prosecution solely for publishing neutral blockchain software.
Criminal statutes still apply to custodial operators or those with intent to launder funds.
Section 301 distinguishes decentralized protocols from centralized platforms to clarify obligations.
Bipartisan support highlights consistent recognition of lawful developer activity in U.S. law.
Crypto developers in the United States may face heightened legal risks if key protections in the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act are weakened. Coin Center, a leading blockchain advocacy group, urged Senate Banking Committee members to preserve safeguards for neutral software developers.
The organization emphasized that the BRCA ensures coders cannot be prosecuted as money transmitters simply for creating or maintaining blockchain software. Without these protections, innovation in decentralized systems could slow as legal ambiguity increases.
BRCA Aims to Shield Neutral Blockchain Software
The BRCA narrowly defines lawful activity, covering code writing, software publishing, and running neutral systems.
Coin Center compared these roles to internet service providers and cloud operators, noting they face no prosecution for criminal misuse by third parties. The legislation clarifies that developers enabling peer-to-peer value exchange do not automatically assume liability for user actions.
The bill also distinguishes between custodial intermediaries and neutral infrastructure. Developers who control customer funds remain subject to existing money transmission statutes.
Coin Center stressed that the BRCA does not create gaps in enforcement or shield illicit activity. Criminal statutes, including 18 U.S.C. §§ 1956 and 1957, still apply when intent to launder or mismanage funds is proven.
Section 301 of the Senate Banking draft already attempts to separate genuinely decentralized protocols from centralized platforms.
Only non-decentralized protocols, where authority can alter functionality or restrict use, may trigger regulatory obligations. Coin Center emphasized that the BRCA complements this distinction, protecting developers who do not exercise control over user funds.
The legislation ensures innovators like Vitalik Buterin or Hayden Adams can operate without fear of arbitrary prosecution. The act aims to maintain the neutrality and public availability of blockchain tools.
Removing these protections could deter responsible development while leaving criminal actors unaffected.
https://t.co/s2WfxKDelb
— Coin Center (@coincenter) February 17, 2026
Bipartisan Support Reinforces Developer Safeguards
The BRCA has consistently drawn bipartisan support in both the Senate and House.
Senators Ron Wyden and Cynthia Lummis introduced the Senate version, while Representatives Tom Emmer and Juan Vargas have championed the House counterpart. Versions of the act have passed Congress multiple times, most recently through the Clarity Act.
Coin Center highlighted that statutory ambiguity should not criminalize constitutionally protected conduct. Writing, publishing, and maintaining software without custody over funds remains a lawful activity.
The organization argued that weakening the BRCA would inject instability into U.S. blockchain regulation. Developers would face unclear liability, risking their willingness to build within the country.
The act does not exempt bad actors. It preserves all prosecutorial tools to target unlicensed custodial services or those knowingly facilitating criminal transactions.
Neutral software development remains protected while law enforcement retains authority over illicit operations. This distinction draws a clear line between innovation and criminal exposure.
By codifying these rules, the BRCA seeks to maintain a stable environment for blockchain innovation. Coin Center’s advocacy reinforces the importance of preserving protections amid ongoing market structure legislation.
Without it, developers risk legal uncertainty while centralized intermediaries remain fully accountable.
The post Coin Center Warns: Weakening BRCA Threatens Blockchain Innovation appeared first on Blockonomi.
BRCA ensures crypto developers cannot face prosecution solely for publishing neutral blockchain software.
Criminal statutes still apply to custodial operators or those with intent to launder funds.
Section 301 distinguishes decentralized protocols from centralized platforms to clarify obligations.
Bipartisan support highlights consistent recognition of lawful developer activity in U.S. law.
Crypto developers in the United States may face heightened legal risks if key protections in the Blockchain Regulatory Certainty Act are weakened. Coin Center, a leading blockchain advocacy group, urged Senate Banking Committee members to preserve safeguards for neutral software developers.
The organization emphasized that the BRCA ensures coders cannot be prosecuted as money transmitters simply for creating or maintaining blockchain software. Without these protections, innovation in decentralized systems could slow as legal ambiguity increases.
BRCA Aims to Shield Neutral Blockchain Software
The BRCA narrowly defines lawful activity, covering code writing, software publishing, and running neutral systems.
Coin Center compared these roles to internet service providers and cloud operators, noting they face no prosecution for criminal misuse by third parties. The legislation clarifies that developers enabling peer-to-peer value exchange do not automatically assume liability for user actions.
The bill also distinguishes between custodial intermediaries and neutral infrastructure. Developers who control customer funds remain subject to existing money transmission statutes.
Coin Center stressed that the BRCA does not create gaps in enforcement or shield illicit activity. Criminal statutes, including 18 U.S.C. §§ 1956 and 1957, still apply when intent to launder or mismanage funds is proven.
Section 301 of the Senate Banking draft already attempts to separate genuinely decentralized protocols from centralized platforms.
Only non-decentralized protocols, where authority can alter functionality or restrict use, may trigger regulatory obligations. Coin Center emphasized that the BRCA complements this distinction, protecting developers who do not exercise control over user funds.
The legislation ensures innovators like Vitalik Buterin or Hayden Adams can operate without fear of arbitrary prosecution. The act aims to maintain the neutrality and public availability of blockchain tools.
Removing these protections could deter responsible development while leaving criminal actors unaffected.
https://t.co/s2WfxKDelb
— Coin Center (@coincenter) February 17, 2026
Bipartisan Support Reinforces Developer Safeguards
The BRCA has consistently drawn bipartisan support in both the Senate and House.
Senators Ron Wyden and Cynthia Lummis introduced the Senate version, while Representatives Tom Emmer and Juan Vargas have championed the House counterpart. Versions of the act have passed Congress multiple times, most recently through the Clarity Act.
Coin Center highlighted that statutory ambiguity should not criminalize constitutionally protected conduct. Writing, publishing, and maintaining software without custody over funds remains a lawful activity.
The organization argued that weakening the BRCA would inject instability into U.S. blockchain regulation. Developers would face unclear liability, risking their willingness to build within the country.
The act does not exempt bad actors. It preserves all prosecutorial tools to target unlicensed custodial services or those knowingly facilitating criminal transactions.
Neutral software development remains protected while law enforcement retains authority over illicit operations. This distinction draws a clear line between innovation and criminal exposure.
By codifying these rules, the BRCA seeks to maintain a stable environment for blockchain innovation. Coin Center’s advocacy reinforces the importance of preserving protections amid ongoing market structure legislation.
Without it, developers risk legal uncertainty while centralized intermediaries remain fully accountable.
The post Coin Center Warns: Weakening BRCA Threatens Blockchain Innovation appeared first on Blockonomi.
Key Trends ARK Invest Says Will Reshape Bitcoin Adoption in 2026
TLDR:
ETFs and DATs held 12% of Bitcoin supply by end of 2025, exceeding new supply absorption.
Sovereign holdings now include 325,437 BTC in the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
Bitcoin drawdowns remain below 50% in the current cycle, reflecting deeper market liquidity.
ETFs reached adoption levels in under two years that gold ETFs took over 15 years to achieve.
Bitcoin is increasingly viewed as a strategic asset for institutional investors.
Spot ETFs, corporate treasuries, and sovereign holdings absorbed more supply than miners produced in 2025. The U.S. Federal Reserve’s early rate cuts and monetary easing have increased demand for scarce digital assets.
Regulatory clarity, including the U.S. CLARITY Act, supports broader adoption across traditional financial platforms.
Structural Demand and ETF Expansion
Spot Bitcoin ETFs reshaped the supply-demand balance, absorbing 1.2 times the newly mined supply and recirculated coins in 2025, according to ARK Invest data.
By year-end, ETFs and digital asset treasuries (DATs) controlled over 12% of bitcoin’s total supply. Morgan Stanley and Vanguard expanded access to regulated Bitcoin products, including ETFs, creating a bridge to traditional capital pools.
Even amid a major October liquidation and market volatility, ETF growth outpaced supply expansion, reflecting stronger structural demand.
Corporate adoption also expanded, with S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indices including bitcoin-exposed companies like Coinbase and Block. Digital asset treasury firms now hold over 1.1 million BTC, representing 5.7% of total supply, mostly long-term holdings.
Strategy, formerly MicroStrategy, maintains 3.5% of bitcoin’s total supply as a treasury reserve. Sovereign involvement increased, highlighted by the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve holding approximately 325,437 BTC, or 1.6% of supply.
The expansion of regulated vehicles and institutional demand coincides with regulatory progress. The CLARITY Act aims to define the lifecycle of digital assets and streamline oversight between the SEC and CFTC.
Texas and other states continued state-level Bitcoin adoption, further signaling government acceptance. Clear guidelines support allocation by institutional investors, strengthening bitcoin’s role as a macro instrument.
In our view, four trends are increasing bitcoin’s value proposition:
The macro and policy backdrop shaping demand for scarce digital assets
Structural ownership trends across ETFs, corporates, and sovereigns
Bitcoin’s relationship to gold and the broader store-of-value… https://t.co/MDbtUxbJkV
— ARK Invest (@ARKInvest) February 17, 2026
Bitcoin’s Relationship to Gold and Market Maturity
Historically, Bitcoin has followed gold’s lead during macro shocks. In 2025, gold surged 64.7% amid inflation concerns, while Bitcoin declined 6.2%, echoing patterns seen in 2016 and 2019.
ETFs indicate growing confidence in Bitcoin as a store-of-value, achieving in two years what gold ETFs required 15 years to reach. Weekly correlation data show low alignment between Bitcoin and gold, suggesting Bitcoin can diversify portfolios independently of traditional assets.
Market volatility is declining, with drawdowns from record highs under 50% since 2022, compared to 70–80% in prior cycles.
Time-in-market strategies continue to outperform timing-focused approaches, with hypothetical investors from 2020–2025 gaining 29–61% despite corrections. These trends suggest Bitcoin is maturing from a speculative asset into a liquid macro instrument with robust trading infrastructure.
Long-term holders, including ETFs, corporations, and sovereigns, now absorb a meaningful portion of new supply. With regulatory clarity and growing institutional access, Bitcoin is increasingly recognized as a strategic allocation rather than an optional investment.
Low correlations with traditional assets and diminished volatility reinforce its potential to improve portfolio risk-adjusted returns.
The post Key Trends ARK Invest Says Will Reshape Bitcoin Adoption in 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.
ETFs and DATs held 12% of Bitcoin supply by end of 2025, exceeding new supply absorption.
Sovereign holdings now include 325,437 BTC in the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.
Bitcoin drawdowns remain below 50% in the current cycle, reflecting deeper market liquidity.
ETFs reached adoption levels in under two years that gold ETFs took over 15 years to achieve.
Bitcoin is increasingly viewed as a strategic asset for institutional investors.
Spot ETFs, corporate treasuries, and sovereign holdings absorbed more supply than miners produced in 2025. The U.S. Federal Reserve’s early rate cuts and monetary easing have increased demand for scarce digital assets.
Regulatory clarity, including the U.S. CLARITY Act, supports broader adoption across traditional financial platforms.
Structural Demand and ETF Expansion
Spot Bitcoin ETFs reshaped the supply-demand balance, absorbing 1.2 times the newly mined supply and recirculated coins in 2025, according to ARK Invest data.
By year-end, ETFs and digital asset treasuries (DATs) controlled over 12% of bitcoin’s total supply. Morgan Stanley and Vanguard expanded access to regulated Bitcoin products, including ETFs, creating a bridge to traditional capital pools.
Even amid a major October liquidation and market volatility, ETF growth outpaced supply expansion, reflecting stronger structural demand.
Corporate adoption also expanded, with S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 indices including bitcoin-exposed companies like Coinbase and Block. Digital asset treasury firms now hold over 1.1 million BTC, representing 5.7% of total supply, mostly long-term holdings.
Strategy, formerly MicroStrategy, maintains 3.5% of bitcoin’s total supply as a treasury reserve. Sovereign involvement increased, highlighted by the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve holding approximately 325,437 BTC, or 1.6% of supply.
The expansion of regulated vehicles and institutional demand coincides with regulatory progress. The CLARITY Act aims to define the lifecycle of digital assets and streamline oversight between the SEC and CFTC.
Texas and other states continued state-level Bitcoin adoption, further signaling government acceptance. Clear guidelines support allocation by institutional investors, strengthening bitcoin’s role as a macro instrument.
In our view, four trends are increasing bitcoin’s value proposition:
The macro and policy backdrop shaping demand for scarce digital assets
Structural ownership trends across ETFs, corporates, and sovereigns
Bitcoin’s relationship to gold and the broader store-of-value… https://t.co/MDbtUxbJkV
— ARK Invest (@ARKInvest) February 17, 2026
Bitcoin’s Relationship to Gold and Market Maturity
Historically, Bitcoin has followed gold’s lead during macro shocks. In 2025, gold surged 64.7% amid inflation concerns, while Bitcoin declined 6.2%, echoing patterns seen in 2016 and 2019.
ETFs indicate growing confidence in Bitcoin as a store-of-value, achieving in two years what gold ETFs required 15 years to reach. Weekly correlation data show low alignment between Bitcoin and gold, suggesting Bitcoin can diversify portfolios independently of traditional assets.
Market volatility is declining, with drawdowns from record highs under 50% since 2022, compared to 70–80% in prior cycles.
Time-in-market strategies continue to outperform timing-focused approaches, with hypothetical investors from 2020–2025 gaining 29–61% despite corrections. These trends suggest Bitcoin is maturing from a speculative asset into a liquid macro instrument with robust trading infrastructure.
Long-term holders, including ETFs, corporations, and sovereigns, now absorb a meaningful portion of new supply. With regulatory clarity and growing institutional access, Bitcoin is increasingly recognized as a strategic allocation rather than an optional investment.
Low correlations with traditional assets and diminished volatility reinforce its potential to improve portfolio risk-adjusted returns.
The post Key Trends ARK Invest Says Will Reshape Bitcoin Adoption in 2026 appeared first on Blockonomi.
65% of CEX Stablecoins Sit on Binance as Exchange Reserves Hit $47.5B, CryptoQuant Reports
TLDR:
Binance holds $47.5B in USDT and USDC reserves, a 31% year-over-year increase from $35.9B in 2024.
CryptoQuant confirms Binance commands 65% of total stablecoin liquidity across all centralized exchanges globally.
OKX, Coinbase, and Bybit trail with 13%, 8%, and 6% shares of total CEX stablecoin reserves respectively.
Bear market outflows have slowed to $2B in the past month, down sharply from $8.4B recorded by December 23.
65% of all stablecoin reserves across centralized exchanges now sit on Binance, according to data from CryptoQuant.
The exchange holds $47.5 billion in combined USDT and USDC, far ahead of every competing platform. That figure marks a 31% year-over-year increase from $35.9 billion.
As the broader crypto market navigates a bear phase, capital does not appear to be leaving the space. Instead, it is consolidating at one address.
Binance Pulls Ahead as the Central Hub for CEX Stablecoins
CryptoQuant shared the data in a recent post, stating that “$47.5B in stablecoins now sits on one exchange.” The firm noted that Binance holds 65% of all exchange stablecoin liquidity. Competitors, it added, remain far behind by comparison.
$47.5B in stablecoins now sits on one exchange.
Binance holds 65% of all exchange stablecoin liquidity while competitors remain far behind, even as bear market outflows slow.
Capital isn’t leaving crypto, it’s concentrating. pic.twitter.com/BeSJvBaXP5
— CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) February 17, 2026
OKX is the next largest holder with $9.5 billion, giving it a 13% share. Coinbase follows with $5.9 billion, representing 8% of total CEX stablecoin reserves. Bybit holds $4 billion, accounting for a 6% share across the Ethereum and TRON networks.
The gap between Binance and its closest rivals is considerable. OKX, in second place, holds roughly one-fifth of what Binance carries in stablecoin reserves. That distance reflects how dominant Binance has become within centralized exchange liquidity.
USDT makes up the overwhelming portion of Binance’s stablecoin position. The exchange holds $42.3 billion in USDT, up 36% from $31.0 billion recorded a year ago. USDC holdings have stayed relatively flat at $5.2 billion over the same period.
Outflows Tied to Bear Market Begin to Ease
Stablecoin reserves across exchanges climbed sharply ahead of the late-2025 market downturn. In the 30 days leading up to November 5, reserves grew by $11.4 billion across centralized platforms. That build-up came just before crypto prices entered a sharp correction.
Once the bear market took hold, those reserves began falling. By December 23, exchange stablecoin holdings had dropped by $8.4 billion from their peak. The decline tracked closely with falling crypto prices during that same window.
The rate of those outflows has since slowed. Over the past month, reserves fell by only $2 billion, a much smaller drop than in prior weeks.
CryptoQuant noted that “the pace of outflows has recently moderated,” pointing to a stabilization in exchange-held capital.
Binance’s year-over-year growth in stablecoin reserves tells a longer story. Its total holdings rose 31% despite the broader bear market pressure on the space.
As CryptoQuant put it, capital is not exiting crypto — it is concentrating. And by the numbers, it is concentrating primarily on Binance, reinforcing its position as the dominant liquidity center among all centralized exchanges globally.
The post 65% of CEX Stablecoins Sit on Binance as Exchange Reserves Hit $47.5B, CryptoQuant Reports appeared first on Blockonomi.
Binance holds $47.5B in USDT and USDC reserves, a 31% year-over-year increase from $35.9B in 2024.
CryptoQuant confirms Binance commands 65% of total stablecoin liquidity across all centralized exchanges globally.
OKX, Coinbase, and Bybit trail with 13%, 8%, and 6% shares of total CEX stablecoin reserves respectively.
Bear market outflows have slowed to $2B in the past month, down sharply from $8.4B recorded by December 23.
65% of all stablecoin reserves across centralized exchanges now sit on Binance, according to data from CryptoQuant.
The exchange holds $47.5 billion in combined USDT and USDC, far ahead of every competing platform. That figure marks a 31% year-over-year increase from $35.9 billion.
As the broader crypto market navigates a bear phase, capital does not appear to be leaving the space. Instead, it is consolidating at one address.
Binance Pulls Ahead as the Central Hub for CEX Stablecoins
CryptoQuant shared the data in a recent post, stating that “$47.5B in stablecoins now sits on one exchange.” The firm noted that Binance holds 65% of all exchange stablecoin liquidity. Competitors, it added, remain far behind by comparison.
$47.5B in stablecoins now sits on one exchange.
Binance holds 65% of all exchange stablecoin liquidity while competitors remain far behind, even as bear market outflows slow.
Capital isn’t leaving crypto, it’s concentrating. pic.twitter.com/BeSJvBaXP5
— CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) February 17, 2026
OKX is the next largest holder with $9.5 billion, giving it a 13% share. Coinbase follows with $5.9 billion, representing 8% of total CEX stablecoin reserves. Bybit holds $4 billion, accounting for a 6% share across the Ethereum and TRON networks.
The gap between Binance and its closest rivals is considerable. OKX, in second place, holds roughly one-fifth of what Binance carries in stablecoin reserves. That distance reflects how dominant Binance has become within centralized exchange liquidity.
USDT makes up the overwhelming portion of Binance’s stablecoin position. The exchange holds $42.3 billion in USDT, up 36% from $31.0 billion recorded a year ago. USDC holdings have stayed relatively flat at $5.2 billion over the same period.
Outflows Tied to Bear Market Begin to Ease
Stablecoin reserves across exchanges climbed sharply ahead of the late-2025 market downturn. In the 30 days leading up to November 5, reserves grew by $11.4 billion across centralized platforms. That build-up came just before crypto prices entered a sharp correction.
Once the bear market took hold, those reserves began falling. By December 23, exchange stablecoin holdings had dropped by $8.4 billion from their peak. The decline tracked closely with falling crypto prices during that same window.
The rate of those outflows has since slowed. Over the past month, reserves fell by only $2 billion, a much smaller drop than in prior weeks.
CryptoQuant noted that “the pace of outflows has recently moderated,” pointing to a stabilization in exchange-held capital.
Binance’s year-over-year growth in stablecoin reserves tells a longer story. Its total holdings rose 31% despite the broader bear market pressure on the space.
As CryptoQuant put it, capital is not exiting crypto — it is concentrating. And by the numbers, it is concentrating primarily on Binance, reinforcing its position as the dominant liquidity center among all centralized exchanges globally.
The post 65% of CEX Stablecoins Sit on Binance as Exchange Reserves Hit $47.5B, CryptoQuant Reports appeared first on Blockonomi.
Germany’s Bundesbank Chief Backs Euro Stablecoins as Europe Pursues Payment Sovereignty
TLDR:
Bundesbank President Nagel endorsed euro stablecoins as low-cost tools for cross-border payments across Europe.
The digital euro will become the first pan-European retail payment solution built on solely European infrastructure.
A wholesale CBDC is in development to enable programmable central bank money payments for financial institutions.
Nagel warned Europe can no longer rely on transatlantic cooperation and rules-based order as it once did.
Germany’s Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel has publicly endorsed euro-denominated stablecoins as a viable tool for cross-border payments.
Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany on February 16, 2026, in Frankfurt, Nagel outlined a broader vision for European financial sovereignty.
His remarks covered payment system independence, regulatory reform, and capital market integration. The endorsement marks a notable shift in tone from a senior European central banker on private digital assets.
Nagel Makes the Case for Euro-Denominated Stablecoins
Euro stablecoins, according to Nagel, can facilitate cross-border payments for individuals and firms at lower cost. This positions them as practical instruments rather than speculative assets.
The focus is specifically on euro-denominated instruments that reinforce European monetary control. By framing stablecoins within a sovereignty narrative, Nagel separates them from broader crypto market concerns.
The endorsement did not come in isolation. Nagel stated that the Eurosystem is actively working toward a retail central bank digital currency.
He described it as “the first pan-European retail digital payment solution, based solely on European infrastructures.” Euro stablecoins, in his view, serve a complementary role alongside this public infrastructure.
Work on a wholesale CBDC is also advancing in parallel. Nagel noted that “a wholesale CBDC would allow financial institutions to make programmable payments in central bank money.”
Together, the retail CBDC, wholesale CBDC, and euro stablecoins form a layered European digital payments ecosystem. Each instrument serves a distinct purpose within that framework.
The core argument is that Europe must reduce its dependence on foreign-controlled payment networks. Currently, major digital payment solutions used across the EU rely heavily on US-based providers.
Euro stablecoins offer a market-driven complement to public infrastructure in closing that gap. Nagel’s endorsement lends institutional credibility to that path forward.
Broader European Reforms Back the Digital Payments Push
The stablecoin endorsement fits within a wider agenda to strengthen the international role of the euro. Nagel outlined three reform priorities: regulatory simplification, the Savings and Investments Union, and euro payment sovereignty.
He described this as “an ambitious programme” that he regards as “essential to successfully overcoming the current challenges.” Each priority connects to the others in building a more resilient European economy.
Regulatory complexity remains a known obstacle to growth and investment across Europe. Nagel referenced reports by Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi calling for streamlined EU rules.
He stressed that “it is not their mere existence that causes problems” but rather “their extraordinary complexity and rigidity.” An ECB High-Level Task Force on simplifying financial regulation is active, with Nagel serving as a member.
Capital market fragmentation across member states continues to limit private investment. Nagel pointed out that “a high degree of economic fragmentation still remains” despite over 30 years of the single market.
The Savings and Investments Union was presented as the key mechanism to address this gap. High European savings, he argued, “could be better channelled into fostering innovation, productivity and competitiveness.”
Transatlantic trade remains substantial, with the EU and US together representing 44% of global GDP. However, Europe is clearly preparing for a world where that partnership carries more uncertainty.
Nagel was direct in saying, “we cannot rely on transatlantic cooperation and the rules-based international order to the same extent as before.”
His support for euro stablecoins reflects that broader repositioning of European financial policy toward greater independence.
The post Germany’s Bundesbank Chief Backs Euro Stablecoins as Europe Pursues Payment Sovereignty appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bundesbank President Nagel endorsed euro stablecoins as low-cost tools for cross-border payments across Europe.
The digital euro will become the first pan-European retail payment solution built on solely European infrastructure.
A wholesale CBDC is in development to enable programmable central bank money payments for financial institutions.
Nagel warned Europe can no longer rely on transatlantic cooperation and rules-based order as it once did.
Germany’s Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel has publicly endorsed euro-denominated stablecoins as a viable tool for cross-border payments.
Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany on February 16, 2026, in Frankfurt, Nagel outlined a broader vision for European financial sovereignty.
His remarks covered payment system independence, regulatory reform, and capital market integration. The endorsement marks a notable shift in tone from a senior European central banker on private digital assets.
Nagel Makes the Case for Euro-Denominated Stablecoins
Euro stablecoins, according to Nagel, can facilitate cross-border payments for individuals and firms at lower cost. This positions them as practical instruments rather than speculative assets.
The focus is specifically on euro-denominated instruments that reinforce European monetary control. By framing stablecoins within a sovereignty narrative, Nagel separates them from broader crypto market concerns.
The endorsement did not come in isolation. Nagel stated that the Eurosystem is actively working toward a retail central bank digital currency.
He described it as “the first pan-European retail digital payment solution, based solely on European infrastructures.” Euro stablecoins, in his view, serve a complementary role alongside this public infrastructure.
Work on a wholesale CBDC is also advancing in parallel. Nagel noted that “a wholesale CBDC would allow financial institutions to make programmable payments in central bank money.”
Together, the retail CBDC, wholesale CBDC, and euro stablecoins form a layered European digital payments ecosystem. Each instrument serves a distinct purpose within that framework.
The core argument is that Europe must reduce its dependence on foreign-controlled payment networks. Currently, major digital payment solutions used across the EU rely heavily on US-based providers.
Euro stablecoins offer a market-driven complement to public infrastructure in closing that gap. Nagel’s endorsement lends institutional credibility to that path forward.
Broader European Reforms Back the Digital Payments Push
The stablecoin endorsement fits within a wider agenda to strengthen the international role of the euro. Nagel outlined three reform priorities: regulatory simplification, the Savings and Investments Union, and euro payment sovereignty.
He described this as “an ambitious programme” that he regards as “essential to successfully overcoming the current challenges.” Each priority connects to the others in building a more resilient European economy.
Regulatory complexity remains a known obstacle to growth and investment across Europe. Nagel referenced reports by Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi calling for streamlined EU rules.
He stressed that “it is not their mere existence that causes problems” but rather “their extraordinary complexity and rigidity.” An ECB High-Level Task Force on simplifying financial regulation is active, with Nagel serving as a member.
Capital market fragmentation across member states continues to limit private investment. Nagel pointed out that “a high degree of economic fragmentation still remains” despite over 30 years of the single market.
The Savings and Investments Union was presented as the key mechanism to address this gap. High European savings, he argued, “could be better channelled into fostering innovation, productivity and competitiveness.”
Transatlantic trade remains substantial, with the EU and US together representing 44% of global GDP. However, Europe is clearly preparing for a world where that partnership carries more uncertainty.
Nagel was direct in saying, “we cannot rely on transatlantic cooperation and the rules-based international order to the same extent as before.”
His support for euro stablecoins reflects that broader repositioning of European financial policy toward greater independence.
The post Germany’s Bundesbank Chief Backs Euro Stablecoins as Europe Pursues Payment Sovereignty appeared first on Blockonomi.
Jupiter Lend Now Accepts Native Staking as Collateral for SOL Borrowing
TLDR:
Jupiter Lend allows users to borrow against natively staked SOL without converting to liquid staking tokens.
Over $30 billion in natively staked SOL on Solana can now be used as collateral inside DeFi lending markets.
Users can borrow up to 87% of their staked position’s value, with a liquidation threshold set firmly at 88%.
Six validators are live at launch, including Jupiter and Helius, with more validators set to join over time.
Native staking as collateral is now available on Jupiter Lend, opening a new lane for Solana DeFi users. Jupiter Exchange has activated a feature allowing holders to borrow against natively staked SOL directly.
No liquid staking tokens are needed at any stage of the process. The update taps into more than $30 billion in staked SOL that previously had no DeFi utility. For long-term SOL stakers, this represents a meaningful shift in how they can use their assets.
Jupiter Lend Bridges Natively Staked SOL Into DeFi Lending
For years, natively staked SOL sat outside the reach of decentralized lending markets. Holders who staked directly with validators had no way to access liquidity without unstaking first.
Jupiter Lend now addresses that gap by detecting staked positions automatically on-chain. Once detected, the position is represented as an nsTOKEN within the protocol.
Jupiter Exchange described the process clearly in a post: “$30B of SOL is natively staked. The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi. That changes today.”
The announcement confirmed the feature is live and accessible to users right away. From there, holders can borrow SOL against their staked position without any manual wrapping or conversion.
$30B of SOL is natively staked.
The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi.
That changes today.
Introducing Native Staking as Collateral, now live on Jupiter Lend pic.twitter.com/rpL2xk3e04
— Jupiter (@JupiterExchange) February 16, 2026
Staking rewards continue to compound while the collateral remains active on the platform. This means users do not lose yield while borrowing against their position.
The protocol is fully non-custodial, so users keep control of their assets throughout. Everything runs on-chain with no intermediary involved in the process.
The borrowing limit is set at up to 87% of the staked position’s value. The liquidation threshold is placed at 88%, leaving a tight but defined buffer for users.
Each validator on the platform operates through a separate vault. The vault names follow a clear format, such as nsJUPITER for Jupiter and nsHELIUS for Helius.
Six Validators Are Live at Launch With Expansion Plans Ahead
Jupiter Exchange launched the feature with six validators already integrated into the platform. Those validators are Jupiter, Helius, Nansen, Blueshift, Kiln, and Temporal.
Each carries its own dedicated vault while following the same borrowing structure. Users staked with any of these validators can access the feature right away.
As stated in the announcement: “Each has its own vault, but with the same exact flow.” So regardless of which validator a user has staked with, the steps remain the same.
The experience stays consistent across all six supported vaults on Jupiter Lend. Only the validator backing the collateral differs between each nsTOKEN position.
Jupiter Exchange also confirmed that additional validators will be added over time. The plan is to cover a broader range of the Solana validator ecosystem gradually.
As more validators join, more natively staked SOL will enter DeFi lending markets. This phased approach keeps the rollout stable while expanding access steadily.
The launch marks a concrete step toward making natively staked SOL fully liquid for DeFi purposes. Users who previously had no options can now put idle staked capital to work on Jupiter Lend.
The post Jupiter Lend Now Accepts Native Staking as Collateral for SOL Borrowing appeared first on Blockonomi.
Jupiter Lend allows users to borrow against natively staked SOL without converting to liquid staking tokens.
Over $30 billion in natively staked SOL on Solana can now be used as collateral inside DeFi lending markets.
Users can borrow up to 87% of their staked position’s value, with a liquidation threshold set firmly at 88%.
Six validators are live at launch, including Jupiter and Helius, with more validators set to join over time.
Native staking as collateral is now available on Jupiter Lend, opening a new lane for Solana DeFi users. Jupiter Exchange has activated a feature allowing holders to borrow against natively staked SOL directly.
No liquid staking tokens are needed at any stage of the process. The update taps into more than $30 billion in staked SOL that previously had no DeFi utility. For long-term SOL stakers, this represents a meaningful shift in how they can use their assets.
Jupiter Lend Bridges Natively Staked SOL Into DeFi Lending
For years, natively staked SOL sat outside the reach of decentralized lending markets. Holders who staked directly with validators had no way to access liquidity without unstaking first.
Jupiter Lend now addresses that gap by detecting staked positions automatically on-chain. Once detected, the position is represented as an nsTOKEN within the protocol.
Jupiter Exchange described the process clearly in a post: “$30B of SOL is natively staked. The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi. That changes today.”
The announcement confirmed the feature is live and accessible to users right away. From there, holders can borrow SOL against their staked position without any manual wrapping or conversion.
$30B of SOL is natively staked.
The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi.
That changes today.
Introducing Native Staking as Collateral, now live on Jupiter Lend pic.twitter.com/rpL2xk3e04
— Jupiter (@JupiterExchange) February 16, 2026
Staking rewards continue to compound while the collateral remains active on the platform. This means users do not lose yield while borrowing against their position.
The protocol is fully non-custodial, so users keep control of their assets throughout. Everything runs on-chain with no intermediary involved in the process.
The borrowing limit is set at up to 87% of the staked position’s value. The liquidation threshold is placed at 88%, leaving a tight but defined buffer for users.
Each validator on the platform operates through a separate vault. The vault names follow a clear format, such as nsJUPITER for Jupiter and nsHELIUS for Helius.
Six Validators Are Live at Launch With Expansion Plans Ahead
Jupiter Exchange launched the feature with six validators already integrated into the platform. Those validators are Jupiter, Helius, Nansen, Blueshift, Kiln, and Temporal.
Each carries its own dedicated vault while following the same borrowing structure. Users staked with any of these validators can access the feature right away.
As stated in the announcement: “Each has its own vault, but with the same exact flow.” So regardless of which validator a user has staked with, the steps remain the same.
The experience stays consistent across all six supported vaults on Jupiter Lend. Only the validator backing the collateral differs between each nsTOKEN position.
Jupiter Exchange also confirmed that additional validators will be added over time. The plan is to cover a broader range of the Solana validator ecosystem gradually.
As more validators join, more natively staked SOL will enter DeFi lending markets. This phased approach keeps the rollout stable while expanding access steadily.
The launch marks a concrete step toward making natively staked SOL fully liquid for DeFi purposes. Users who previously had no options can now put idle staked capital to work on Jupiter Lend.
The post Jupiter Lend Now Accepts Native Staking as Collateral for SOL Borrowing appeared first on Blockonomi.
AAVE Drops 86% From ATH; Can This Key Support Zone Trigger a $1,000 Rally?
TLDR:
AAVE is trading around $124, sitting above a major support zone between $90 and $110 on the weekly chart.
A multi-year ascending trendline active since 2021 converges with the 0.618 Fibonacci level at current prices.
Price is compressing between descending resistance and rising support, signaling a potential breakout is approaching.
Upside targets range from $190 to $1,000, representing a 10x return from the base of the accumulation zone.
AAVE is currently sitting at a critical support zone following an 86% decline from its all-time high. The DeFi token is trading around $124, holding above a major weekly trendline that has remained intact since 2021.
Analysts are now watching whether this level can sustain buying pressure and trigger a larger recovery. Crypto analyst CryptoPatel has outlined a detailed technical case suggesting a potential 10x move from the current accumulation range.
Price Holds Above Key Support as Accumulation Signs Emerge
AAVE is trading above a high-timeframe support zone between $90 and $110. This range has attracted considerable attention from technical analysts tracking the asset’s long-term structure.
The zone aligns with a multi-year ascending trendline, adding weight to its relevance as a demand area.
CryptoPatel flagged the setup on social media, stating that price is showing a “liquidity sweep and reaction from a multi-year ascending trendline that has held since 2021.”
$AAVE -86% CRASH CREATED A ONCE-IN-A-CYCLE OPPORTUNITY | $1,000 TARGET STILL IN PLAY?#AAVE Is Trading Around $124 Above Major Weekly Strong TL Support at $90 Which is HTF Accumulation Zone.
Structure Is Showing Clear Liquidity Sweep + Reaction From Multi-Year Ascending… pic.twitter.com/jtnIwdRbvU
— Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) February 16, 2026
That trendline converges with the 0.618 Fibonacci retracement level, forming a strong area of technical confluence. Together, these factors point to a historically significant support region for the asset.
Beyond the trendline, price action is compressing between a descending resistance level and rising support. This type of compression pattern often builds tension before a directional move. Traders are watching closely to see which side resolves first.
10x Targets in Focus as Breakout Conditions Take Shape
The $74 level stands as the line in the sand for bulls. A weekly close below that price would cancel the bullish scenario outlined in the analysis. As long as AAVE holds above that threshold, the setup remains technically intact.
CryptoPatel mapped out a series of upside targets starting at $190, followed by $345, then $579, and eventually $1,000 or more.
These levels represent roughly a 10x return calculated from the base of the accumulation zone near $90. Each target corresponds to a technical resistance level identified on higher timeframes.
The analyst described the current range as trading between the 0.618 and 0.786 Fibonacci support levels, calling it a “generational accumulation range before massive expansion.”
This Fibonacci band is commonly associated with deep retracements that precede strong recoveries in trending assets.
Whether AAVE confirms this pattern depends on price holding current support and broader market momentum supporting a DeFi recovery.
The post AAVE Drops 86% From ATH; Can This Key Support Zone Trigger a $1,000 Rally? appeared first on Blockonomi.
AAVE is trading around $124, sitting above a major support zone between $90 and $110 on the weekly chart.
A multi-year ascending trendline active since 2021 converges with the 0.618 Fibonacci level at current prices.
Price is compressing between descending resistance and rising support, signaling a potential breakout is approaching.
Upside targets range from $190 to $1,000, representing a 10x return from the base of the accumulation zone.
AAVE is currently sitting at a critical support zone following an 86% decline from its all-time high. The DeFi token is trading around $124, holding above a major weekly trendline that has remained intact since 2021.
Analysts are now watching whether this level can sustain buying pressure and trigger a larger recovery. Crypto analyst CryptoPatel has outlined a detailed technical case suggesting a potential 10x move from the current accumulation range.
Price Holds Above Key Support as Accumulation Signs Emerge
AAVE is trading above a high-timeframe support zone between $90 and $110. This range has attracted considerable attention from technical analysts tracking the asset’s long-term structure.
The zone aligns with a multi-year ascending trendline, adding weight to its relevance as a demand area.
CryptoPatel flagged the setup on social media, stating that price is showing a “liquidity sweep and reaction from a multi-year ascending trendline that has held since 2021.”
$AAVE -86% CRASH CREATED A ONCE-IN-A-CYCLE OPPORTUNITY | $1,000 TARGET STILL IN PLAY?#AAVE Is Trading Around $124 Above Major Weekly Strong TL Support at $90 Which is HTF Accumulation Zone.
Structure Is Showing Clear Liquidity Sweep + Reaction From Multi-Year Ascending… pic.twitter.com/jtnIwdRbvU
— Crypto Patel (@CryptoPatel) February 16, 2026
That trendline converges with the 0.618 Fibonacci retracement level, forming a strong area of technical confluence. Together, these factors point to a historically significant support region for the asset.
Beyond the trendline, price action is compressing between a descending resistance level and rising support. This type of compression pattern often builds tension before a directional move. Traders are watching closely to see which side resolves first.
10x Targets in Focus as Breakout Conditions Take Shape
The $74 level stands as the line in the sand for bulls. A weekly close below that price would cancel the bullish scenario outlined in the analysis. As long as AAVE holds above that threshold, the setup remains technically intact.
CryptoPatel mapped out a series of upside targets starting at $190, followed by $345, then $579, and eventually $1,000 or more.
These levels represent roughly a 10x return calculated from the base of the accumulation zone near $90. Each target corresponds to a technical resistance level identified on higher timeframes.
The analyst described the current range as trading between the 0.618 and 0.786 Fibonacci support levels, calling it a “generational accumulation range before massive expansion.”
This Fibonacci band is commonly associated with deep retracements that precede strong recoveries in trending assets.
Whether AAVE confirms this pattern depends on price holding current support and broader market momentum supporting a DeFi recovery.
The post AAVE Drops 86% From ATH; Can This Key Support Zone Trigger a $1,000 Rally? appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin’s Derivatives Crash: The Hidden Force Stalling Price Recovery
TLDR:
Bitcoin open interest peaked at 381,000 BTC across all exchanges during the October 2025 cycle top.
Binance recorded a 20.8% open interest drop between October 6 and 11, with Bybit and Gate.io falling 37%.
Post-peak declines have persisted monthly, with Binance down an additional 39.3% since the market top.
Shrinking derivatives exposure signals active risk reduction, making a sustained Bitcoin rally difficult.
Bitcoin’s price recovery has stalled, and the derivatives market may hold the answer. Open interest data across major exchanges shows a sustained and deepening contraction since the latest cycle peak.
Speculative activity that once fueled Bitcoin’s climb has now reversed course entirely. The data suggests that the collapse in derivatives positioning is playing a central role in keeping Bitcoin’s price under pressure.
A Record Build-Up Followed by a Sharp Collapse
Bitcoin’s derivatives market expanded aggressively throughout this cycle. On Binance, Bitcoin-denominated open interest peaked at 120,000 BTC in October 2025, compared to 94,300 BTC after the November 2021 high. That growth reflected an enormous build-up in speculative exposure heading into the cycle top.
Across all exchanges combined, open interest reached 381,000 BTC at the peak, up from 221,000 BTC in April 2024.
Analyst Darkfost noted on X that “speculation during this cycle reached unprecedented levels, and both novice and professional investors have paid the price.”
Bitcoin struggles as derivatives Open Interest continues to shrink
Analyzing Bitcoin open interest across exchanges highlights how severely the derivatives market has contracted since the last all time high and the October 10 sell off.
Speculation during this cycle reached… pic.twitter.com/8TfFb7JnAt
— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) February 16, 2026
The unwind began swiftly after the October sell-off. Between October 6 and October 11 alone, Binance recorded a 20.8% drop in open interest. Bybit and Gate.io saw even steeper declines of 37% each during that same five-day window.
That rapid contraction removed a large volume of leveraged positioning from the market. Without that speculative support, Bitcoin lost a key structural driver that had been pushing prices higher throughout the cycle.
Why the Derivatives Slump Keeps Price Recovery Out of Reach
The contraction has not stopped at that initial sell-off. Since then, declines have continued in nearly every subsequent month across major platforms. Binance has fallen an additional 39.3%, while Bybit is down 33% and BitMEX has dropped 24%.
Darkfost pointed out that the derivatives market “was definitely a primary driver during this cycle, but it has also become a key force behind the decline.” As open interest shrinks, so does the fuel needed to sustain upward price momentum.
Traders are either voluntarily reducing exposure or being forced out through liquidations. Either way, the result is the same; fewer active positions mean less buying pressure and thinner market participation overall.
Under these conditions, any price rally lacks the depth to hold. Without a meaningful recovery in open interest, Bitcoin remains vulnerable to further selling pressure.
Derivatives data continues to serve as one of the clearest indicators of where market sentiment truly stands.
The post Bitcoin’s Derivatives Crash: The Hidden Force Stalling Price Recovery appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bitcoin open interest peaked at 381,000 BTC across all exchanges during the October 2025 cycle top.
Binance recorded a 20.8% open interest drop between October 6 and 11, with Bybit and Gate.io falling 37%.
Post-peak declines have persisted monthly, with Binance down an additional 39.3% since the market top.
Shrinking derivatives exposure signals active risk reduction, making a sustained Bitcoin rally difficult.
Bitcoin’s price recovery has stalled, and the derivatives market may hold the answer. Open interest data across major exchanges shows a sustained and deepening contraction since the latest cycle peak.
Speculative activity that once fueled Bitcoin’s climb has now reversed course entirely. The data suggests that the collapse in derivatives positioning is playing a central role in keeping Bitcoin’s price under pressure.
A Record Build-Up Followed by a Sharp Collapse
Bitcoin’s derivatives market expanded aggressively throughout this cycle. On Binance, Bitcoin-denominated open interest peaked at 120,000 BTC in October 2025, compared to 94,300 BTC after the November 2021 high. That growth reflected an enormous build-up in speculative exposure heading into the cycle top.
Across all exchanges combined, open interest reached 381,000 BTC at the peak, up from 221,000 BTC in April 2024.
Analyst Darkfost noted on X that “speculation during this cycle reached unprecedented levels, and both novice and professional investors have paid the price.”
Bitcoin struggles as derivatives Open Interest continues to shrink
Analyzing Bitcoin open interest across exchanges highlights how severely the derivatives market has contracted since the last all time high and the October 10 sell off.
Speculation during this cycle reached… pic.twitter.com/8TfFb7JnAt
— Darkfost (@Darkfost_Coc) February 16, 2026
The unwind began swiftly after the October sell-off. Between October 6 and October 11 alone, Binance recorded a 20.8% drop in open interest. Bybit and Gate.io saw even steeper declines of 37% each during that same five-day window.
That rapid contraction removed a large volume of leveraged positioning from the market. Without that speculative support, Bitcoin lost a key structural driver that had been pushing prices higher throughout the cycle.
Why the Derivatives Slump Keeps Price Recovery Out of Reach
The contraction has not stopped at that initial sell-off. Since then, declines have continued in nearly every subsequent month across major platforms. Binance has fallen an additional 39.3%, while Bybit is down 33% and BitMEX has dropped 24%.
Darkfost pointed out that the derivatives market “was definitely a primary driver during this cycle, but it has also become a key force behind the decline.” As open interest shrinks, so does the fuel needed to sustain upward price momentum.
Traders are either voluntarily reducing exposure or being forced out through liquidations. Either way, the result is the same; fewer active positions mean less buying pressure and thinner market participation overall.
Under these conditions, any price rally lacks the depth to hold. Without a meaningful recovery in open interest, Bitcoin remains vulnerable to further selling pressure.
Derivatives data continues to serve as one of the clearest indicators of where market sentiment truly stands.
The post Bitcoin’s Derivatives Crash: The Hidden Force Stalling Price Recovery appeared first on Blockonomi.
Dragonfly Capital Raises $650M Fourth Fund to Lead Crypto’s Shift Toward Financial Infrastructure
TLDR:
Dragonfly Capital closed its fourth fund at $650M, competing directly with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
The firm led Ethena’s $6M seed round in 2023; the stablecoin now holds a $6.3B market capitalization.
Dragonfly’s strategy targets stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized assets over native crypto protocols.
Partner Haseeb Qureshi says speaking openly in a hype-driven space has been the firm’s greatest superpower.
Dragonfly Capital has officially closed its fourth fund at $650 million. The crypto-focused venture firm made the announcement even as the broader blockchain investment sector faces serious headwinds.
The firm continues to focus on financial infrastructure, including stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized real-world assets.
This latest raise cements Dragonfly’s place among the top crypto venture firms globally competing with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
Dragonfly Bets on Finance as Crypto’s Next Frontier
The firm’s strategy has shifted noticeably toward Wall Street-style financial products built on blockchain rails. General partner Rob Hadick, who joined in April 2022 from hedge fund GoldenTree, has been central to that repositioning.
He arrived just as the Terra Luna collapse rocked the market and stayed through the FTX implosion shortly after. Recalling that turbulent period, Hadick said, “I was scared about what was happening to the industry, but I was excited about the opportunity we had, because we still had $500 million to deploy.”
One early product of that vision was Ethena, a synthetic dollar project that most investors rejected following the Terra Luna fallout. Dragonfly led Ethena’s $6 million seed round during the bear market of 2023.
Ethena founder Guy Young recalled that most investors told him, “It’s actually offensive that you’re even saying this after what just happened.”
Dragonfly, however, took a different view. Young credited the firm’s ability to “look at it from first principles” as the reason they moved forward.
Today, Ethena’s flagship stablecoin carries a market cap of roughly $6.3 billion. Franklin Templeton and Fidelity’s venture arm joined a subsequent $100 million round, further validating Dragonfly’s early conviction.
The bet stands as one of the clearest examples of the firm’s contrarian approach during a difficult market period.
A broader shift is now visible across the entire crypto venture space. Partner Tom Schmidt noted that fewer funds are chasing native protocol tokens and more are backing assets tied to real-world instruments.
“This is the biggest meta shift I can feel in my entire time in the industry,” Schmidt said. Hadick added, “A lot of crypto funds are now saying they’re fintech funds, which is what I think we do better than anybody.”
Leadership and Long-Term Vision Drive the Firm Forward
Dragonfly’s current leadership includes four partners with distinct, complementary roles. Haseeb Qureshi serves as the firm’s most visible voice, known for his Chopping Block podcast and direct commentary on Crypto Twitter.
He once nearly secured Polymarket’s seed round in 2020 but passed on matching a competing term sheet. Reflecting on it, Qureshi said plainly, “It was obviously a massive miss on our part, but we had the right idea.” The firm eventually invested at the Series B stage.
The firm has also navigated serious internal and external turbulence. A Department of Justice inquiry surfaced in 2025, tied to Dragonfly’s investment in privacy protocol Tornado Cash.
Prosecutors briefly suggested Schmidt could face criminal charges before the DOJ reversed course. Qureshi maintained that “the investment was never ideological,” and the episode ultimately became a point of credibility within the broader crypto community.
Dragonfly restructured significantly after co-founder Alex Pack departed around 2020. Pack himself acknowledged that he and Feng were “very different culturally,” adding that he spent “a few months helping to hire and train my replacements” before the two parted ways.
The firm also relocated its Asia operations from Beijing to Singapore amid China’s sweeping crypto crackdown, though Schmidt confirmed it still maintains a meaningful regional presence.
With $650 million now secured, Dragonfly enters the next cycle as one of the sector’s most established players. “It’s bizarre to see us now become one of the incumbents,” Qureshi said.
He added that the firm’s willingness to speak directly has been a key differentiator: “In a space that is just completely flooded with bullshit and with fakers and self-promoters, I think that has actually been a superpower.”
The firm is now positioned to shape how blockchain technology continues merging with mainstream financial systems.
The post Dragonfly Capital Raises $650M Fourth Fund to Lead Crypto’s Shift Toward Financial Infrastructure appeared first on Blockonomi.
Dragonfly Capital closed its fourth fund at $650M, competing directly with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
The firm led Ethena’s $6M seed round in 2023; the stablecoin now holds a $6.3B market capitalization.
Dragonfly’s strategy targets stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized assets over native crypto protocols.
Partner Haseeb Qureshi says speaking openly in a hype-driven space has been the firm’s greatest superpower.
Dragonfly Capital has officially closed its fourth fund at $650 million. The crypto-focused venture firm made the announcement even as the broader blockchain investment sector faces serious headwinds.
The firm continues to focus on financial infrastructure, including stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized real-world assets.
This latest raise cements Dragonfly’s place among the top crypto venture firms globally competing with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
Dragonfly Bets on Finance as Crypto’s Next Frontier
The firm’s strategy has shifted noticeably toward Wall Street-style financial products built on blockchain rails. General partner Rob Hadick, who joined in April 2022 from hedge fund GoldenTree, has been central to that repositioning.
He arrived just as the Terra Luna collapse rocked the market and stayed through the FTX implosion shortly after. Recalling that turbulent period, Hadick said, “I was scared about what was happening to the industry, but I was excited about the opportunity we had, because we still had $500 million to deploy.”
One early product of that vision was Ethena, a synthetic dollar project that most investors rejected following the Terra Luna fallout. Dragonfly led Ethena’s $6 million seed round during the bear market of 2023.
Ethena founder Guy Young recalled that most investors told him, “It’s actually offensive that you’re even saying this after what just happened.”
Dragonfly, however, took a different view. Young credited the firm’s ability to “look at it from first principles” as the reason they moved forward.
Today, Ethena’s flagship stablecoin carries a market cap of roughly $6.3 billion. Franklin Templeton and Fidelity’s venture arm joined a subsequent $100 million round, further validating Dragonfly’s early conviction.
The bet stands as one of the clearest examples of the firm’s contrarian approach during a difficult market period.
A broader shift is now visible across the entire crypto venture space. Partner Tom Schmidt noted that fewer funds are chasing native protocol tokens and more are backing assets tied to real-world instruments.
“This is the biggest meta shift I can feel in my entire time in the industry,” Schmidt said. Hadick added, “A lot of crypto funds are now saying they’re fintech funds, which is what I think we do better than anybody.”
Leadership and Long-Term Vision Drive the Firm Forward
Dragonfly’s current leadership includes four partners with distinct, complementary roles. Haseeb Qureshi serves as the firm’s most visible voice, known for his Chopping Block podcast and direct commentary on Crypto Twitter.
He once nearly secured Polymarket’s seed round in 2020 but passed on matching a competing term sheet. Reflecting on it, Qureshi said plainly, “It was obviously a massive miss on our part, but we had the right idea.” The firm eventually invested at the Series B stage.
The firm has also navigated serious internal and external turbulence. A Department of Justice inquiry surfaced in 2025, tied to Dragonfly’s investment in privacy protocol Tornado Cash.
Prosecutors briefly suggested Schmidt could face criminal charges before the DOJ reversed course. Qureshi maintained that “the investment was never ideological,” and the episode ultimately became a point of credibility within the broader crypto community.
Dragonfly restructured significantly after co-founder Alex Pack departed around 2020. Pack himself acknowledged that he and Feng were “very different culturally,” adding that he spent “a few months helping to hire and train my replacements” before the two parted ways.
The firm also relocated its Asia operations from Beijing to Singapore amid China’s sweeping crypto crackdown, though Schmidt confirmed it still maintains a meaningful regional presence.
With $650 million now secured, Dragonfly enters the next cycle as one of the sector’s most established players. “It’s bizarre to see us now become one of the incumbents,” Qureshi said.
He added that the firm’s willingness to speak directly has been a key differentiator: “In a space that is just completely flooded with bullshit and with fakers and self-promoters, I think that has actually been a superpower.”
The firm is now positioned to shape how blockchain technology continues merging with mainstream financial systems.
The post Dragonfly Capital Raises $650M Fourth Fund to Lead Crypto’s Shift Toward Financial Infrastructure appeared first on Blockonomi.
XRP Ledger Introduces Permissioned DEX, Boosting Institutional Access
TLDR
The Permissioned DEX amendment on the XRP Ledger will activate in 24 hours.
This upgrade introduces controlled environments for trading within the decentralized exchange.
The amendment allows regulated financial institutions to participate while adhering to compliance requirements.
XRP’s demand remains strong, with nearly $4.5 million flowing into XRP-focused products in the last 24 hours.
The Permissioned DEX amendment builds on the previous XLS-80, enhancing the platform’s functionality for permissioned domains.
The Permissioned DEX amendment is set to go live on the XRP Ledger within 24 hours, marking a key milestone for the platform. This upgrade will introduce controlled environments for trading within the XRP Ledger’s decentralized exchange (DEX). The development is expected to facilitate broader participation, especially from regulated financial institutions.
XRP Ledger’s Permissioned DEX Amendment Activation
The Permissioned DEX amendment, also known as XLS 81, is set to activate on the XRP Ledger tomorrow. This amendment will create controlled trading environments, allowing only authorized users to place and accept offers. By integrating permissioning directly into the DEX protocol, it is designed to offer a secure space for regulated entities to trade.
According to XRPScan, the countdown to activation stands at just 23 hours. This feature builds upon the previous XLS-80, which focuses on Permissioned Domains. As part of this upgrade, users within these domains will have the ability to trade freely but only within a pre-approved group.
XRP’s Continued Demand Despite Market Shifts
XRP remains in strong demand, even as the broader cryptocurrency market experiences fluctuations. Rayhaneh Sharif Askary, the head of product and research at Grayscale, spoke about the consistent interest in XRP at a recent community event. “Advisors are constantly asked by their clients about XRP,” said Sharif Askary, underlining its continued relevance.
In fact, XRP has become one of the most talked-about assets, trailing only behind Bitcoin in some circles. This increasing interest is reflected in the recent data compiled by SoSoValue, showing XRP funds receiving nearly $4.5 million in the last 24 hours. Despite a market drop, the demand for XRP shows no signs of slowing down.
At the time of writing, XRP had fallen by 1.78% in the last 24 hours to $1.45. However, it had gained 3.59% over the past week. This indicates that, while it may face short-term volatility, XRP continues to attract attention from investors.
The introduction of the Permissioned DEX amendment is seen as a crucial step in XRP’s journey toward broader institutional adoption. By offering a controlled environment for trading, the XRP Ledger aims to cater to the needs of regulated financial institutions.
The integration of permissioning features within the DEX protocol allows these institutions to participate without violating compliance requirements. In the long term, this move could play a pivotal role in attracting more institutional investors to the XRP ecosystem.
The post XRP Ledger Introduces Permissioned DEX, Boosting Institutional Access appeared first on Blockonomi.
The Permissioned DEX amendment on the XRP Ledger will activate in 24 hours.
This upgrade introduces controlled environments for trading within the decentralized exchange.
The amendment allows regulated financial institutions to participate while adhering to compliance requirements.
XRP’s demand remains strong, with nearly $4.5 million flowing into XRP-focused products in the last 24 hours.
The Permissioned DEX amendment builds on the previous XLS-80, enhancing the platform’s functionality for permissioned domains.
The Permissioned DEX amendment is set to go live on the XRP Ledger within 24 hours, marking a key milestone for the platform. This upgrade will introduce controlled environments for trading within the XRP Ledger’s decentralized exchange (DEX). The development is expected to facilitate broader participation, especially from regulated financial institutions.
XRP Ledger’s Permissioned DEX Amendment Activation
The Permissioned DEX amendment, also known as XLS 81, is set to activate on the XRP Ledger tomorrow. This amendment will create controlled trading environments, allowing only authorized users to place and accept offers. By integrating permissioning directly into the DEX protocol, it is designed to offer a secure space for regulated entities to trade.
According to XRPScan, the countdown to activation stands at just 23 hours. This feature builds upon the previous XLS-80, which focuses on Permissioned Domains. As part of this upgrade, users within these domains will have the ability to trade freely but only within a pre-approved group.
XRP’s Continued Demand Despite Market Shifts
XRP remains in strong demand, even as the broader cryptocurrency market experiences fluctuations. Rayhaneh Sharif Askary, the head of product and research at Grayscale, spoke about the consistent interest in XRP at a recent community event. “Advisors are constantly asked by their clients about XRP,” said Sharif Askary, underlining its continued relevance.
In fact, XRP has become one of the most talked-about assets, trailing only behind Bitcoin in some circles. This increasing interest is reflected in the recent data compiled by SoSoValue, showing XRP funds receiving nearly $4.5 million in the last 24 hours. Despite a market drop, the demand for XRP shows no signs of slowing down.
At the time of writing, XRP had fallen by 1.78% in the last 24 hours to $1.45. However, it had gained 3.59% over the past week. This indicates that, while it may face short-term volatility, XRP continues to attract attention from investors.
The introduction of the Permissioned DEX amendment is seen as a crucial step in XRP’s journey toward broader institutional adoption. By offering a controlled environment for trading, the XRP Ledger aims to cater to the needs of regulated financial institutions.
The integration of permissioning features within the DEX protocol allows these institutions to participate without violating compliance requirements. In the long term, this move could play a pivotal role in attracting more institutional investors to the XRP ecosystem.
The post XRP Ledger Introduces Permissioned DEX, Boosting Institutional Access appeared first on Blockonomi.
TON Foundation Joins Forces with Banxa to Simplify Payments Across APAC
TLDR
The TON Foundation has partnered with Banxa to expand stablecoin payment infrastructure for SMEs across the Asia-Pacific region.
The collaboration integrates Banxa’s fiat-to-crypto network with the TON blockchain to support B2B and C2B transactions.
TON Pay, launched on February 11, enables Telegram Mini Apps to accept Toncoin and USDT directly within the app.
The partnership allows businesses to benefit from low transaction fees and fast settlement times under one second.
OSL Group, which owns Banxa, raised $200 million in equity financing in January 2026 to further its expansion in the digital asset sector.
The TON Foundation has announced a partnership with Banxa, a crypto infrastructure provider under OSL Group, to enhance stablecoin payment processing across Asia-Pacific. This collaboration aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region with seamless digital asset payments. Businesses will be able to utilize The Open Network (TON) blockchain for settlements, cross-border transactions, and more efficient money movement.
TON Foundation and Banxa Collaborate to Improve B2B and C2B Transactions
The new partnership integrates Banxa’s fiat-to-crypto on- and off-ramp network with TON’s blockchain infrastructure. This will simplify business-to-business (B2B) and consumer-to-business (C2B) payment processes for companies in the Asia-Pacific region. Through this collaboration, TON Foundation aims to help SMEs tap into the benefits of blockchain for easier and faster cross-border payments.
Nikola Plecas, vice president of payments at TON Foundation, emphasized that the partnership aligns with their goal of expanding commercial use cases for TON globally. “This collaboration reflects our emphasis on generating TON-based use cases that provide long-term commercial utility for builders and businesses around the world,” he said in a statement. With the integration of Banxa’s services, businesses will gain access to a licensed infrastructure network across various regions, including Asia, the U.S., Europe, and beyond.
The Launch of TON Pay and Its Integration with Telegram
The partnership also comes shortly after the February 11 launch of TON Pay, a payment SDK designed to support Telegram Mini Apps. The new solution allows businesses to accept Toncoin and USDT directly within the Telegram app. This is aimed at targeting Telegram’s massive user base of 1.1 billion active monthly users.
TON Pay ensures seamless transactions with an average fee of less than $0.01 and near-instant settlement times. The integration with Telegram also positions the TON blockchain to handle high-volume transactions with minimal fees and ultra-fast processing. This provides a powerful use case for digital asset payments, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
OSL Group’s Role and Recent Funding
OSL Group, which owns Banxa, has strengthened its position in the digital asset sector through several rounds of funding. In January 2026, OSL completed a $200 million equity financing round. This followed a $300 million raise in 2025, marking it as one of the largest public equity raises in Asia’s digital asset market. The company’s ongoing expansion aims to further integrate cryptocurrency solutions into mainstream finance.
This partnership between the TON Foundation and Banxa highlights the growing importance of stablecoins in driving business payments. By simplifying digital asset transactions, the collaboration positions both companies to better support the needs of businesses in the region. With the integration of Banxa’s global payment infrastructure, the TON blockchain is poised to become a key player in international settlements and cross-border transactions for SMEs.
The post TON Foundation Joins Forces with Banxa to Simplify Payments Across APAC appeared first on Blockonomi.
The TON Foundation has partnered with Banxa to expand stablecoin payment infrastructure for SMEs across the Asia-Pacific region.
The collaboration integrates Banxa’s fiat-to-crypto network with the TON blockchain to support B2B and C2B transactions.
TON Pay, launched on February 11, enables Telegram Mini Apps to accept Toncoin and USDT directly within the app.
The partnership allows businesses to benefit from low transaction fees and fast settlement times under one second.
OSL Group, which owns Banxa, raised $200 million in equity financing in January 2026 to further its expansion in the digital asset sector.
The TON Foundation has announced a partnership with Banxa, a crypto infrastructure provider under OSL Group, to enhance stablecoin payment processing across Asia-Pacific. This collaboration aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region with seamless digital asset payments. Businesses will be able to utilize The Open Network (TON) blockchain for settlements, cross-border transactions, and more efficient money movement.
TON Foundation and Banxa Collaborate to Improve B2B and C2B Transactions
The new partnership integrates Banxa’s fiat-to-crypto on- and off-ramp network with TON’s blockchain infrastructure. This will simplify business-to-business (B2B) and consumer-to-business (C2B) payment processes for companies in the Asia-Pacific region. Through this collaboration, TON Foundation aims to help SMEs tap into the benefits of blockchain for easier and faster cross-border payments.
Nikola Plecas, vice president of payments at TON Foundation, emphasized that the partnership aligns with their goal of expanding commercial use cases for TON globally. “This collaboration reflects our emphasis on generating TON-based use cases that provide long-term commercial utility for builders and businesses around the world,” he said in a statement. With the integration of Banxa’s services, businesses will gain access to a licensed infrastructure network across various regions, including Asia, the U.S., Europe, and beyond.
The Launch of TON Pay and Its Integration with Telegram
The partnership also comes shortly after the February 11 launch of TON Pay, a payment SDK designed to support Telegram Mini Apps. The new solution allows businesses to accept Toncoin and USDT directly within the Telegram app. This is aimed at targeting Telegram’s massive user base of 1.1 billion active monthly users.
TON Pay ensures seamless transactions with an average fee of less than $0.01 and near-instant settlement times. The integration with Telegram also positions the TON blockchain to handle high-volume transactions with minimal fees and ultra-fast processing. This provides a powerful use case for digital asset payments, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
OSL Group’s Role and Recent Funding
OSL Group, which owns Banxa, has strengthened its position in the digital asset sector through several rounds of funding. In January 2026, OSL completed a $200 million equity financing round. This followed a $300 million raise in 2025, marking it as one of the largest public equity raises in Asia’s digital asset market. The company’s ongoing expansion aims to further integrate cryptocurrency solutions into mainstream finance.
This partnership between the TON Foundation and Banxa highlights the growing importance of stablecoins in driving business payments. By simplifying digital asset transactions, the collaboration positions both companies to better support the needs of businesses in the region. With the integration of Banxa’s global payment infrastructure, the TON blockchain is poised to become a key player in international settlements and cross-border transactions for SMEs.
The post TON Foundation Joins Forces with Banxa to Simplify Payments Across APAC appeared first on Blockonomi.
Shiba Inu Unveils SOU NFTs to Track and Repay Shibarium Users’ Losses
TLDR
Shiba Inu has launched the “Shib Owes You” system to compensate users affected by the Shibarium hack.
The new system uses on-chain SOU NFTs to track the value owed to each impacted user.
Hexens completed a comprehensive security audit of the SOU system, ensuring its reliability and safety.
Shiba Inu’s lead ambassador, Shytoshi Kusama, praised the development team for their efforts in restoring user trust.
SOU NFTs will provide cryptographic proof of claims, recorded permanently on the Ethereum blockchain.
Shiba Inu has introduced a new on-chain NFT system called “Shib Owes You” (SOU) to support users impacted by the Shibarium hack. SOU serves as an on-chain record for affected users, verifying claims related to payouts, donations, and rewards. This initiative aims to make users whole after the Shibarium network disruption.
Shiba Inu Introduces SOU System
Shiba Inu has revealed the “Shib Owes You” (SOU) system, designed to compensate Shibarium users who were affected by a recent hack. The system uses on-chain NFTs to track the value owed to each user. According to Shiba Inu developer Kaal Dhairya, the SOU NFTs will serve as cryptographic proof of these claims on the Ethereum blockchain.
The SOU mechanism records every transaction related to payouts and donations. When payouts occur, the amount owed to the user decreases. The total value of each SOU tracks the principal amount owed, updating in real time as payments are made.
SOU is live
Introducing SOU (Shib Owes You) an onchain NFT built as a good-faith effort to support impacted users with payouts, donations, and occasional rewards.
Transparent. Tradable. On-chain.
You can transfer it, split it, merge it, or trade it on marketplaces.
Claim your… pic.twitter.com/ONyO8OitJQ
— Shib (@Shibtoken) February 16, 2026
Hexens Completes Security Audit for SOU
Hexens, a blockchain security firm, has completed an audit of the SOU system. The audit focused on various components of the system, such as asset recovery logic and payment flows. The results confirm that the SOU mechanism operates securely, with appropriate access controls in place.
The audit also reviewed the NFT mechanics and the overall safety of user funds. This thorough review ensures that the SOU system can be trusted by Shiba Inu users. It guarantees that the recovery process following the Shibarium hack remains secure.
The Shiba Inu community has responded positively to the launch of the SOU system. Shiba Inu’s lead ambassador, Shytoshi Kusama, praised the efforts of the development team. He acknowledged Kaal Dhairya and the team for their work, stating, “Great work, guys, getting this out.”
The post Shiba Inu Unveils SOU NFTs to Track and Repay Shibarium Users’ Losses appeared first on Blockonomi.
Shiba Inu has launched the “Shib Owes You” system to compensate users affected by the Shibarium hack.
The new system uses on-chain SOU NFTs to track the value owed to each impacted user.
Hexens completed a comprehensive security audit of the SOU system, ensuring its reliability and safety.
Shiba Inu’s lead ambassador, Shytoshi Kusama, praised the development team for their efforts in restoring user trust.
SOU NFTs will provide cryptographic proof of claims, recorded permanently on the Ethereum blockchain.
Shiba Inu has introduced a new on-chain NFT system called “Shib Owes You” (SOU) to support users impacted by the Shibarium hack. SOU serves as an on-chain record for affected users, verifying claims related to payouts, donations, and rewards. This initiative aims to make users whole after the Shibarium network disruption.
Shiba Inu Introduces SOU System
Shiba Inu has revealed the “Shib Owes You” (SOU) system, designed to compensate Shibarium users who were affected by a recent hack. The system uses on-chain NFTs to track the value owed to each user. According to Shiba Inu developer Kaal Dhairya, the SOU NFTs will serve as cryptographic proof of these claims on the Ethereum blockchain.
The SOU mechanism records every transaction related to payouts and donations. When payouts occur, the amount owed to the user decreases. The total value of each SOU tracks the principal amount owed, updating in real time as payments are made.
SOU is live
Introducing SOU (Shib Owes You) an onchain NFT built as a good-faith effort to support impacted users with payouts, donations, and occasional rewards.
Transparent. Tradable. On-chain.
You can transfer it, split it, merge it, or trade it on marketplaces.
Claim your… pic.twitter.com/ONyO8OitJQ
— Shib (@Shibtoken) February 16, 2026
Hexens Completes Security Audit for SOU
Hexens, a blockchain security firm, has completed an audit of the SOU system. The audit focused on various components of the system, such as asset recovery logic and payment flows. The results confirm that the SOU mechanism operates securely, with appropriate access controls in place.
The audit also reviewed the NFT mechanics and the overall safety of user funds. This thorough review ensures that the SOU system can be trusted by Shiba Inu users. It guarantees that the recovery process following the Shibarium hack remains secure.
The Shiba Inu community has responded positively to the launch of the SOU system. Shiba Inu’s lead ambassador, Shytoshi Kusama, praised the efforts of the development team. He acknowledged Kaal Dhairya and the team for their work, stating, “Great work, guys, getting this out.”
The post Shiba Inu Unveils SOU NFTs to Track and Repay Shibarium Users’ Losses appeared first on Blockonomi.
Intesa Sanpaolo Reveals $96 Million Bitcoin ETF Holdings and Strategy Hedge
TLDR
Intesa Sanpaolo revealed $100 million in Bitcoin ETF holdings, including $72.6 million in the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF.
The bank also disclosed a $4.3 million stake in the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF, expanding its crypto exposure.
Intesa Sanpaolo holds a significant put option position on Strategy, the largest corporate Bitcoin holder.
The bank’s filing shows minor equity investments in crypto-linked companies like Coinbase and Circle.
The 13F filing indicates joint investment decisions between Intesa Sanpaolo and affiliated asset managers.
Intesa Sanpaolo, an Italian banking giant, has revealed a large exposure to bitcoin and cryptocurrency-related assets. The bank’s recent 13F filing for the quarter ending December 2025 highlights over $100 million in Bitcoin ETFs. It also includes substantial positions tied to Strategy, the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin.
Bitcoin ETF Holdings Reach $96 Million
The filing lists multiple Bitcoin ETF holdings, amounting to approximately $96 million in total exposure. The largest position is a $72.6 million stake in the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF, with an additional $23.4 million in the iShares Bitcoin Trust. Together, these positions bring the bank’s total exposure to Bitcoin ETFs to over $96 million.
In addition to bitcoin, Intesa Sanpaolo has invested in the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF, which holds a $4.3 million stake. The ETF tracks the price of Solana (SOL) and generates staking rewards, further broadening the bank’s cryptocurrency investments.
Intesa Sanpaolo’s Strategy Hedge Involves Large Put Option Position
The filing also reveals a large put option position linked to Strategy. Strategy is the biggest corporate holder of bitcoin, with 714,644 BTC on its balance sheet, valued at approximately $184.6 million. The put option allows Intesa Sanpaolo to sell MSTR shares at a predetermined price, which could prove profitable if the stock price declines.
This move suggests a hedge strategy where Intesa is positioning itself to capitalize on any potential drop in Strategy’s stock. Strategy was trading at 2.9 mNAV (multiple of net asset value) at one point, and now it stands at 1.21 mNAV. The closing of this gap would likely result in gains for Intesa’s position.
Minor Crypto-linked Equity Positions
In the same filing, Intesa Sanpaolo disclosed smaller equity stakes in several crypto-related companies. These include positions in Coinbase, Robinhood, BitMine, and ETHZilla, with the largest investment being a $4.4 million stake in Circle. These minor investments diversify the bank’s exposure to the digital asset market, further indicating its growing interest in cryptocurrency.
The filing carries the “DFND” (Shared-Defined) designation, showing that investment decisions were made jointly by Intesa Sanpaolo and affiliated asset managers. However, it remains unclear whether these managers are part of Intesa’s own trading desk or institutional clients.
The post Intesa Sanpaolo Reveals $96 Million Bitcoin ETF Holdings and Strategy Hedge appeared first on Blockonomi.
Intesa Sanpaolo revealed $100 million in Bitcoin ETF holdings, including $72.6 million in the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF.
The bank also disclosed a $4.3 million stake in the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF, expanding its crypto exposure.
Intesa Sanpaolo holds a significant put option position on Strategy, the largest corporate Bitcoin holder.
The bank’s filing shows minor equity investments in crypto-linked companies like Coinbase and Circle.
The 13F filing indicates joint investment decisions between Intesa Sanpaolo and affiliated asset managers.
Intesa Sanpaolo, an Italian banking giant, has revealed a large exposure to bitcoin and cryptocurrency-related assets. The bank’s recent 13F filing for the quarter ending December 2025 highlights over $100 million in Bitcoin ETFs. It also includes substantial positions tied to Strategy, the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin.
Bitcoin ETF Holdings Reach $96 Million
The filing lists multiple Bitcoin ETF holdings, amounting to approximately $96 million in total exposure. The largest position is a $72.6 million stake in the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF, with an additional $23.4 million in the iShares Bitcoin Trust. Together, these positions bring the bank’s total exposure to Bitcoin ETFs to over $96 million.
In addition to bitcoin, Intesa Sanpaolo has invested in the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF, which holds a $4.3 million stake. The ETF tracks the price of Solana (SOL) and generates staking rewards, further broadening the bank’s cryptocurrency investments.
Intesa Sanpaolo’s Strategy Hedge Involves Large Put Option Position
The filing also reveals a large put option position linked to Strategy. Strategy is the biggest corporate holder of bitcoin, with 714,644 BTC on its balance sheet, valued at approximately $184.6 million. The put option allows Intesa Sanpaolo to sell MSTR shares at a predetermined price, which could prove profitable if the stock price declines.
This move suggests a hedge strategy where Intesa is positioning itself to capitalize on any potential drop in Strategy’s stock. Strategy was trading at 2.9 mNAV (multiple of net asset value) at one point, and now it stands at 1.21 mNAV. The closing of this gap would likely result in gains for Intesa’s position.
Minor Crypto-linked Equity Positions
In the same filing, Intesa Sanpaolo disclosed smaller equity stakes in several crypto-related companies. These include positions in Coinbase, Robinhood, BitMine, and ETHZilla, with the largest investment being a $4.4 million stake in Circle. These minor investments diversify the bank’s exposure to the digital asset market, further indicating its growing interest in cryptocurrency.
The filing carries the “DFND” (Shared-Defined) designation, showing that investment decisions were made jointly by Intesa Sanpaolo and affiliated asset managers. However, it remains unclear whether these managers are part of Intesa’s own trading desk or institutional clients.
The post Intesa Sanpaolo Reveals $96 Million Bitcoin ETF Holdings and Strategy Hedge appeared first on Blockonomi.
Polygon Surpasses Ethereum in Daily Fees as Polymarket Bets Surge
TLDR
Polygon surpassed Ethereum in daily transaction fees for the first time ever, with $407,100 in fees compared to Ethereum’s $211,700.
The surge in Polygon’s fees was driven by significant activity on Polymarket, especially surrounding Oscar betting.
Polymarket recorded over $15 million in wagers on a single Oscar category over the weekend, contributing to Polygon’s fee growth.
Polygon’s average transaction fee is around $0.0026, significantly lower than Ethereum’s fee of about $1.68.
Ethereum’s recent volatility, driven by large whale movements, created a more favorable environment for Polygon’s fee surge.
Polygon recently surpassed Ethereum in daily transaction fees, marking a significant shift in blockchain activity. This occurred when Polygon’s network recorded $407,100 in transaction fees on Friday, compared to Ethereum’s $211,700. The increase in Polygon’s revenue coincided with the surge in activity on Polymarket, particularly with Oscar betting.
Polymarket Drives Fee Surge
Polymarket, a decentralized prediction market, is behind much of Polygon’s newfound fee dominance. Over the weekend, it recorded more than $15 million in wagers for a single Oscar category, attracting considerable retail interest. This surge in betting activity directly translated into substantial network fees for Polygon, which exceeded $1 million in a single week.
This boost in transaction volume significantly impacted Polygon’s overall fee performance. Polymarket, which is built on Polygon’s blockchain, saw consistent traffic, helping drive up daily revenue. As a result, Polygon briefly overtook Ethereum in daily transaction fees, an outcome few expected given Ethereum’s dominant position.
Polygon just hit an all-time high in daily USDC transactions
And it's not even close.
12M+ daily USDC txs on Polygon
Every other chain? Below 3M
Base, Arbitrum, Ethereum Mainnet barely register pic.twitter.com/SVlf5ci2xm
— Leon Waidmann (@LeonWaidmann) February 17, 2026
Lower Transaction Fees Give Polygon an Edge
Polygon’s lower transaction costs have made it an attractive alternative to Ethereum for users engaging in frequent, smaller transactions. The average transaction fee on Polygon is around $0.0026, while Ethereum’s fees average about $1.68. This price difference makes Polygon the clear choice for many users, especially in markets like Polymarket, where multiple small bets are common.
The lower costs allow users to move funds more freely, resulting in a higher transaction volume. This increased volume has contributed to Polygon’s fee surge. According to sources, the majority of Polygon’s recent fee growth is attributed to Polymarket’s activity rather than other apps on the network, solidifying the importance of the prediction market.
Ethereum’s Volatility Adds Pressure
While Ethereum remains the dominant blockchain by many measures, its higher fees and increased volatility have made it less appealing for some users. Recently, large whale movements on Ethereum added to concerns about network stability, creating a sense of uncertainty. This has allowed Polygon to capitalize on the growing demand for lower-cost, more predictable transactions.
Despite Ethereum’s structural advantages, the recent surge in Polymarket’s activity has proven that consumer-driven demand can quickly shift fee dynamics.
The post Polygon Surpasses Ethereum in Daily Fees as Polymarket Bets Surge appeared first on Blockonomi.
Polygon surpassed Ethereum in daily transaction fees for the first time ever, with $407,100 in fees compared to Ethereum’s $211,700.
The surge in Polygon’s fees was driven by significant activity on Polymarket, especially surrounding Oscar betting.
Polymarket recorded over $15 million in wagers on a single Oscar category over the weekend, contributing to Polygon’s fee growth.
Polygon’s average transaction fee is around $0.0026, significantly lower than Ethereum’s fee of about $1.68.
Ethereum’s recent volatility, driven by large whale movements, created a more favorable environment for Polygon’s fee surge.
Polygon recently surpassed Ethereum in daily transaction fees, marking a significant shift in blockchain activity. This occurred when Polygon’s network recorded $407,100 in transaction fees on Friday, compared to Ethereum’s $211,700. The increase in Polygon’s revenue coincided with the surge in activity on Polymarket, particularly with Oscar betting.
Polymarket Drives Fee Surge
Polymarket, a decentralized prediction market, is behind much of Polygon’s newfound fee dominance. Over the weekend, it recorded more than $15 million in wagers for a single Oscar category, attracting considerable retail interest. This surge in betting activity directly translated into substantial network fees for Polygon, which exceeded $1 million in a single week.
This boost in transaction volume significantly impacted Polygon’s overall fee performance. Polymarket, which is built on Polygon’s blockchain, saw consistent traffic, helping drive up daily revenue. As a result, Polygon briefly overtook Ethereum in daily transaction fees, an outcome few expected given Ethereum’s dominant position.
Polygon just hit an all-time high in daily USDC transactions
And it's not even close.
12M+ daily USDC txs on Polygon
Every other chain? Below 3M
Base, Arbitrum, Ethereum Mainnet barely register pic.twitter.com/SVlf5ci2xm
— Leon Waidmann (@LeonWaidmann) February 17, 2026
Lower Transaction Fees Give Polygon an Edge
Polygon’s lower transaction costs have made it an attractive alternative to Ethereum for users engaging in frequent, smaller transactions. The average transaction fee on Polygon is around $0.0026, while Ethereum’s fees average about $1.68. This price difference makes Polygon the clear choice for many users, especially in markets like Polymarket, where multiple small bets are common.
The lower costs allow users to move funds more freely, resulting in a higher transaction volume. This increased volume has contributed to Polygon’s fee surge. According to sources, the majority of Polygon’s recent fee growth is attributed to Polymarket’s activity rather than other apps on the network, solidifying the importance of the prediction market.
Ethereum’s Volatility Adds Pressure
While Ethereum remains the dominant blockchain by many measures, its higher fees and increased volatility have made it less appealing for some users. Recently, large whale movements on Ethereum added to concerns about network stability, creating a sense of uncertainty. This has allowed Polygon to capitalize on the growing demand for lower-cost, more predictable transactions.
Despite Ethereum’s structural advantages, the recent surge in Polymarket’s activity has proven that consumer-driven demand can quickly shift fee dynamics.
The post Polygon Surpasses Ethereum in Daily Fees as Polymarket Bets Surge appeared first on Blockonomi.
U.K. Crypto Rules Move Slowly, Against CEO Warns of Competitiveness Risk
TLDR
Agant CEO Andrew MacKenzie warns that the slow pace of U.K. crypto regulations risks undermining the country’s global competitiveness.
The U.K. crypto regulatory framework is not expected to take effect until 2027, causing prolonged uncertainty for businesses.
Agant recently secured registration with the Financial Conduct Authority, marking a key milestone for its sterling-backed stablecoin, GBPA.
MacKenzie believes pound-backed stablecoins could enhance international demand for U.K. debt rather than destabilizing financial systems.
The slow implementation of U.K. crypto rules may push innovation to regions with faster regulatory development, like Europe and Asia.
The U.K. government’s progress on crypto regulation is too slow to keep up with the global race for digital assets, according to Andrew MacKenzie, CEO of Agant. The firm is developing a sterling-backed stablecoin, GBPA, but MacKenzie believes the delayed regulatory framework risks leaving the country behind. The crypto industry in the U.K. faces prolonged uncertainty as key legislation isn’t expected to take effect until 2027.
MacKenzie argued that businesses need clarity on the rules to stay competitive.
“Without faster implementation, the U.K. could lose its position as a leader in the digital asset sector,” he said.
He pointed to the growing pace of regulatory development in other regions like Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, which are advancing quickly.
英镑稳定币发行商 Agant 首席执行官 Andrew MacKenzie 表示，英国加密货币及稳定币监管规则推行迟缓，正影响该国建设全球数字资产枢纽的进程。尽管英国政府多次承诺将伦敦打造为全球中心，但相关综合立法预计今年晚些时候获批，且直至 2027 年才正式生效。（CoinDesk）https://t.co/Q7lJWTlWwi
— 吴说区块链 (@wublockchain12) February 17, 2026
Agant’s Regulatory Milestone
Agant recently achieved registration with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), a milestone under the U.K.’s anti-money laundering regime. This selective process marks a significant step for the company as it prepares to launch its GBPA stablecoin. This stablecoin, backed 1:1 by pounds, aims to be more than a consumer token, serving as an institutional infrastructure for payments, settlements, and tokenized assets.
The company’s engagement with the Treasury, FCA, and the Bank of England has been constructive, though disagreements remain. MacKenzie noted that some proposed limits in the Bank of England’s stablecoin framework have sparked debate. However, he emphasized that regulators have shown a willingness to adjust rules when necessary.
U.K. Crypto Rules Need to Move Faster
MacKenzie expressed concerns that the slow pace of the U.K. crypto rules could harm the country’s competitiveness. He highlighted that businesses are primarily looking for clear regulations. The uncertainty around stablecoin legislation could drive innovation to other faster-moving regions, he warned.
Despite these challenges, Agant remains focused on its goal to launch the GBPA. The company believes in the potential for stablecoins to extend monetary sovereignty globally, particularly for the U.K. MacKenzie stressed that pound-backed stablecoins could enhance international demand for U.K. debt, rather than destabilize the financial system as critics suggest.
He also rejected the idea that stablecoins would drain bank deposits. Instead, MacKenzie views digital assets as competition that could encourage banks to innovate. He pointed out that many U.K. banks now recognize blockchain technology as a long-term strategic opportunity.
As the government works to finalize the regulatory framework, MacKenzie reiterated that the U.K. must accelerate the process. He remains hopeful that once implemented, the regulations will position the country as a key player in the global digital asset economy.
The post U.K. Crypto Rules Move Slowly, Against CEO Warns of Competitiveness Risk appeared first on Blockonomi.
Agant CEO Andrew MacKenzie warns that the slow pace of U.K. crypto regulations risks undermining the country’s global competitiveness.
The U.K. crypto regulatory framework is not expected to take effect until 2027, causing prolonged uncertainty for businesses.
Agant recently secured registration with the Financial Conduct Authority, marking a key milestone for its sterling-backed stablecoin, GBPA.
MacKenzie believes pound-backed stablecoins could enhance international demand for U.K. debt rather than destabilizing financial systems.
The slow implementation of U.K. crypto rules may push innovation to regions with faster regulatory development, like Europe and Asia.
The U.K. government’s progress on crypto regulation is too slow to keep up with the global race for digital assets, according to Andrew MacKenzie, CEO of Agant. The firm is developing a sterling-backed stablecoin, GBPA, but MacKenzie believes the delayed regulatory framework risks leaving the country behind. The crypto industry in the U.K. faces prolonged uncertainty as key legislation isn’t expected to take effect until 2027.
MacKenzie argued that businesses need clarity on the rules to stay competitive.
“Without faster implementation, the U.K. could lose its position as a leader in the digital asset sector,” he said.
He pointed to the growing pace of regulatory development in other regions like Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, which are advancing quickly.
英镑稳定币发行商 Agant 首席执行官 Andrew MacKenzie 表示，英国加密货币及稳定币监管规则推行迟缓，正影响该国建设全球数字资产枢纽的进程。尽管英国政府多次承诺将伦敦打造为全球中心，但相关综合立法预计今年晚些时候获批，且直至 2027 年才正式生效。（CoinDesk）https://t.co/Q7lJWTlWwi
— 吴说区块链 (@wublockchain12) February 17, 2026
Agant’s Regulatory Milestone
Agant recently achieved registration with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), a milestone under the U.K.’s anti-money laundering regime. This selective process marks a significant step for the company as it prepares to launch its GBPA stablecoin. This stablecoin, backed 1:1 by pounds, aims to be more than a consumer token, serving as an institutional infrastructure for payments, settlements, and tokenized assets.
The company’s engagement with the Treasury, FCA, and the Bank of England has been constructive, though disagreements remain. MacKenzie noted that some proposed limits in the Bank of England’s stablecoin framework have sparked debate. However, he emphasized that regulators have shown a willingness to adjust rules when necessary.
U.K. Crypto Rules Need to Move Faster
MacKenzie expressed concerns that the slow pace of the U.K. crypto rules could harm the country’s competitiveness. He highlighted that businesses are primarily looking for clear regulations. The uncertainty around stablecoin legislation could drive innovation to other faster-moving regions, he warned.
Despite these challenges, Agant remains focused on its goal to launch the GBPA. The company believes in the potential for stablecoins to extend monetary sovereignty globally, particularly for the U.K. MacKenzie stressed that pound-backed stablecoins could enhance international demand for U.K. debt, rather than destabilize the financial system as critics suggest.
He also rejected the idea that stablecoins would drain bank deposits. Instead, MacKenzie views digital assets as competition that could encourage banks to innovate. He pointed out that many U.K. banks now recognize blockchain technology as a long-term strategic opportunity.
As the government works to finalize the regulatory framework, MacKenzie reiterated that the U.K. must accelerate the process. He remains hopeful that once implemented, the regulations will position the country as a key player in the global digital asset economy.
The post U.K. Crypto Rules Move Slowly, Against CEO Warns of Competitiveness Risk appeared first on Blockonomi.
RWA Platforms Reach Record Value Amid Market Volatility and Shifts
TLDR
RWA platforms have attracted steady liquidity inflows despite recent market downturns.
Tokenized gold and silver have emerged as key assets driving growth in RWA projects.
Tether’s tokenized gold surpassed Paxos Gold to become the most popular RWA token.
The total value of tokenized assets reached a new record above $24 billion.
Commodities, especially gold and silver, played a crucial role in the recent growth of RWAs.
Recent market trends have seen many digital assets struggle due to liquidity outflows, but Real-World Asset (RWA) projects have managed to stay strong. These platforms have attracted consistent liquidity, even as traders have moved away from altcoins and established tokens. Tokenized assets have found increased interest as investors look for more stable investments in light of the market’s volatility.
Gold and Silver Lead RWA Growth
In February 2026, tokenized commodities such as gold and silver have emerged as major drivers for RWA platforms. Tether’s tokenized gold, XAUT, has attracted considerable liquidity, surpassing Paxos Gold as the most popular RWA token. As buying interest surged, gold remained a solid hedge for many traders, providing a stable store of value.
Silver also performed well, benefiting from the shift in market focus toward traditional commodities. These assets have found new life as crypto traders adapt to trading them alongside digital currencies. As a result, tokenized commodities have become an essential part of the RWA landscape, drawing substantial volumes to RWA platforms.
Tokenized Assets Reach Record Value
The total value in tokenized assets recently reached a new record above $24 billion. While US tokenized bonds held the largest share, commodities were the main drivers of the recent growth. This shift reflects traders’ desire for assets with tangible backing in uncertain market conditions.
Private credit also gained traction in the RWA tokenization space, contributing to the overall increase in tokenized asset values. Despite this, RWA adoption is still limited, with large entities mainly controlling treasury debt. The broader retail market has yet to fully embrace RWA tokenization, though the demand for tokenized commodities and equities is growing.
RWA’s Emerging Role in the DEX Space
The decentralized exchange (DEX) landscape is beginning to incorporate tokenized RWAs, though markets remain fragmented. HIP-3 has become one of the most active platforms for trading tokenized shares. The market for RWA tokens is still developing, with a limited number of issuers and trading venues.
However, tokenized equities are drawing interest, with more than 309,000 wallets now holding tokenized public equity. These tokenized assets continue to play an increasing role in RWA adoption, though the market still faces challenges in terms of liquidity and infrastructure. As RWA volumes grow, further market integration will be essential for broader adoption.
The post RWA Platforms Reach Record Value Amid Market Volatility and Shifts appeared first on Blockonomi.
RWA platforms have attracted steady liquidity inflows despite recent market downturns.
Tokenized gold and silver have emerged as key assets driving growth in RWA projects.
Tether’s tokenized gold surpassed Paxos Gold to become the most popular RWA token.
The total value of tokenized assets reached a new record above $24 billion.
Commodities, especially gold and silver, played a crucial role in the recent growth of RWAs.
Recent market trends have seen many digital assets struggle due to liquidity outflows, but Real-World Asset (RWA) projects have managed to stay strong. These platforms have attracted consistent liquidity, even as traders have moved away from altcoins and established tokens. Tokenized assets have found increased interest as investors look for more stable investments in light of the market’s volatility.
Gold and Silver Lead RWA Growth
In February 2026, tokenized commodities such as gold and silver have emerged as major drivers for RWA platforms. Tether’s tokenized gold, XAUT, has attracted considerable liquidity, surpassing Paxos Gold as the most popular RWA token. As buying interest surged, gold remained a solid hedge for many traders, providing a stable store of value.
Silver also performed well, benefiting from the shift in market focus toward traditional commodities. These assets have found new life as crypto traders adapt to trading them alongside digital currencies. As a result, tokenized commodities have become an essential part of the RWA landscape, drawing substantial volumes to RWA platforms.
Tokenized Assets Reach Record Value
The total value in tokenized assets recently reached a new record above $24 billion. While US tokenized bonds held the largest share, commodities were the main drivers of the recent growth. This shift reflects traders’ desire for assets with tangible backing in uncertain market conditions.
Private credit also gained traction in the RWA tokenization space, contributing to the overall increase in tokenized asset values. Despite this, RWA adoption is still limited, with large entities mainly controlling treasury debt. The broader retail market has yet to fully embrace RWA tokenization, though the demand for tokenized commodities and equities is growing.
RWA’s Emerging Role in the DEX Space
The decentralized exchange (DEX) landscape is beginning to incorporate tokenized RWAs, though markets remain fragmented. HIP-3 has become one of the most active platforms for trading tokenized shares. The market for RWA tokens is still developing, with a limited number of issuers and trading venues.
However, tokenized equities are drawing interest, with more than 309,000 wallets now holding tokenized public equity. These tokenized assets continue to play an increasing role in RWA adoption, though the market still faces challenges in terms of liquidity and infrastructure. As RWA volumes grow, further market integration will be essential for broader adoption.
The post RWA Platforms Reach Record Value Amid Market Volatility and Shifts appeared first on Blockonomi.
Expert Projects XRP to Transform Japan’s Payment and Settlement Systems
TLDR
CryptoSensei predicts that XRP will gain significant integration in Japan’s banking systems in the coming years.
XRP’s adoption in payment and settlement systems could expand its utility and strengthen its market valuation.
The potential shift to XRP-based settlement infrastructure could attract institutional adoption in derivatives and cross-border financial flows.
Financial institutions in Japan may adopt XRP after ensuring its compliance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Global liquidity pressures could accelerate XRP’s adoption as an efficient settlement system during times of financial stress.
Crypto commentator CryptoSensei has shared his thoughts on a potential game-changing development for XRP in Japan. The country’s focus on regulatory clarity and fintech innovation could lead to significant changes in the digital-asset sector. This shift in focus from speculative market trends to real-world applications positions XRP for long-term growth, particularly in the Japanese financial ecosystem.
XRP’s Strategic Future in Japan
CryptoSensei has projected that XRP-related infrastructure will gain broader integration within Japanese banking systems. He emphasized that a growing number of financial institutions in Japan may adopt XRP for payment and settlement systems in the coming years. This expansion would elevate XRP’s utility, making it a critical component in Japan’s evolving digital finance landscape.
JAPANESE BANKS FINALLY ADOPT #XRP?!?! (THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING) pic.twitter.com/4hkl0brEBo
— CryptoSensei (@Crypt0Senseii) February 16, 2026
Japan has been at the forefront of blockchain adoption, with both regulatory support and a history of cross-border payment experiments. This provides a strong foundation for XRP to be integrated into banking services. According to CryptoSensei, the move could make XRP a key tool for domestic and international transactions, with widespread implications for the cryptocurrency’s value.
Institutional Adoption of XRP in Financial Settlements
CryptoSensei also pointed to a future where key financial infrastructure providers shift to using the XRP Ledger for settlements. He suggested that such a move could open the door for institutional use of XRP in derivatives settlement and cross-border liquidity flows. The faster and more affordable transaction rails provided by XRP’s blockchain could make it the go-to choice for high-value institutional settlements.
Financial institutions typically adopt new infrastructure only after ensuring that it meets compliance and efficiency standards. The potential for XRP to become central to such transactions would require financial entities to address challenges like interoperability and custody. Despite these hurdles, CryptoSensei believes that the demand for more efficient settlement systems could drive faster adoption of XRP.
The third phase of XRP’s evolution in Japan may depend on global liquidity pressures. CryptoSensei suggested that economic instability could prompt institutions to seek more efficient settlement systems. During times of financial strain, innovative technologies like XRP could become the foundation for smoother, faster cross-border payments.
In times of constrained liquidity, financial markets often turn to new technologies to ease transaction bottlenecks. XRP, with its low-cost and fast processing capabilities, could be well-positioned to meet these demands. CryptoSensei highlighted the potential for XRP to play a pivotal role in these scenarios, further cementing its importance in the global financial infrastructure.
While the full integration of XRP into Japanese financial systems remains uncertain, the possibilities are compelling. The country’s history with blockchain, paired with XRP’s technical capabilities, points toward a promising future for both the cryptocurrency and the broader financial ecosystem.
The post Expert Projects XRP to Transform Japan’s Payment and Settlement Systems appeared first on Blockonomi.
CryptoSensei predicts that XRP will gain significant integration in Japan’s banking systems in the coming years.
XRP’s adoption in payment and settlement systems could expand its utility and strengthen its market valuation.
The potential shift to XRP-based settlement infrastructure could attract institutional adoption in derivatives and cross-border financial flows.
Financial institutions in Japan may adopt XRP after ensuring its compliance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Global liquidity pressures could accelerate XRP’s adoption as an efficient settlement system during times of financial stress.
Crypto commentator CryptoSensei has shared his thoughts on a potential game-changing development for XRP in Japan. The country’s focus on regulatory clarity and fintech innovation could lead to significant changes in the digital-asset sector. This shift in focus from speculative market trends to real-world applications positions XRP for long-term growth, particularly in the Japanese financial ecosystem.
XRP’s Strategic Future in Japan
CryptoSensei has projected that XRP-related infrastructure will gain broader integration within Japanese banking systems. He emphasized that a growing number of financial institutions in Japan may adopt XRP for payment and settlement systems in the coming years. This expansion would elevate XRP’s utility, making it a critical component in Japan’s evolving digital finance landscape.
JAPANESE BANKS FINALLY ADOPT #XRP?!?! (THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING) pic.twitter.com/4hkl0brEBo
— CryptoSensei (@Crypt0Senseii) February 16, 2026
Japan has been at the forefront of blockchain adoption, with both regulatory support and a history of cross-border payment experiments. This provides a strong foundation for XRP to be integrated into banking services. According to CryptoSensei, the move could make XRP a key tool for domestic and international transactions, with widespread implications for the cryptocurrency’s value.
Institutional Adoption of XRP in Financial Settlements
CryptoSensei also pointed to a future where key financial infrastructure providers shift to using the XRP Ledger for settlements. He suggested that such a move could open the door for institutional use of XRP in derivatives settlement and cross-border liquidity flows. The faster and more affordable transaction rails provided by XRP’s blockchain could make it the go-to choice for high-value institutional settlements.
Financial institutions typically adopt new infrastructure only after ensuring that it meets compliance and efficiency standards. The potential for XRP to become central to such transactions would require financial entities to address challenges like interoperability and custody. Despite these hurdles, CryptoSensei believes that the demand for more efficient settlement systems could drive faster adoption of XRP.
The third phase of XRP’s evolution in Japan may depend on global liquidity pressures. CryptoSensei suggested that economic instability could prompt institutions to seek more efficient settlement systems. During times of financial strain, innovative technologies like XRP could become the foundation for smoother, faster cross-border payments.
In times of constrained liquidity, financial markets often turn to new technologies to ease transaction bottlenecks. XRP, with its low-cost and fast processing capabilities, could be well-positioned to meet these demands. CryptoSensei highlighted the potential for XRP to play a pivotal role in these scenarios, further cementing its importance in the global financial infrastructure.
While the full integration of XRP into Japanese financial systems remains uncertain, the possibilities are compelling. The country’s history with blockchain, paired with XRP’s technical capabilities, points toward a promising future for both the cryptocurrency and the broader financial ecosystem.
The post Expert Projects XRP to Transform Japan’s Payment and Settlement Systems appeared first on Blockonomi.
Michael Saylor’s Strategy Buys More Bitcoin, Now Holds 717,131 BTC
TLDR
Strategy acquired 2,486 BTC for $168.4 million between February 9 and February 16.
The company’s total Bitcoin holdings now reach 717,131 BTC, valued at around $48.8 billion.
Strategy’s average purchase price for Bitcoin stands at $76,027 per coin, totaling an investment of $54.5 billion.
The Bitcoin acquisition was financed through the sale of 660,000 MSTR shares and 785,354 STRC shares.
Strategy still has $7.88 billion in MSTR shares and $3.54 billion in STRC shares available for issuance.
Michael Saylor’s firm, Strategy, has acquired an additional 2,486 BTC for $168.4 million between February 9 and February 16. This purchase brings the company’s total holdings to 717,131 BTC, valued at approximately $48.8 billion. The recent acquisition was funded by the sale of the company’s own stock, according to an 8-K filing with the SEC.
Latest Bitcoin Acquisition Brings Total to 717,131 BTC
Strategy’s new purchase of 2,486 BTC occurred at an average price of $67,710 per Bitcoin. The acquisition raised the company’s total Bitcoin holdings to 717,131 BTC, worth $48.8 billion. The firm’s average cost per Bitcoin stands at $76,027, which brings the total investment to about $54.5 billion.
The company has seen an increase in its Bitcoin position, despite facing market volatility. With this recent buy, Strategy now holds over 3.4% of Bitcoin’s total supply. However, the value of its holdings is currently marked by approximately $5.7 billion in unrealized losses.
Strategy’s Stock Sales Fund Bitcoin Purchases
To finance the Bitcoin purchases, Strategy sold shares of its Class A common stock and perpetual Stretch preferred stock. The company raised $90.5 million by selling 660,000 MSTR shares and another $78.4 million from selling 785,354 STRC shares. Strategy still has $7.88 billion in MSTR shares and $3.54 billion in STRC shares available for issuance.
These sales are part of a broader funding strategy to acquire Bitcoin. Strategy plans to continue raising capital through a series of equity offerings and convertible notes. The company has outlined its goal to raise $84 billion by 2027 as part of its Bitcoin acquisition plan.
Strategy’s Current Position and Future Plans
As of February 16, Strategy has structured its debt conservatively. The firm believes it can withstand Bitcoin’s price falling to $8,000 while covering its debts. Strategy’s management, including CEO Phong Le, has emphasized that the company’s leverage is half that of investment-grade companies.
The company’s Bitcoin holdings are now worth less than its market cap, with an mNAV ratio of 0.91. Despite these challenges, Strategy’s stock saw a rise of 16.5% last week, with shares closing at $133.88. The firm remains optimistic about its position and its long-term outlook on Bitcoin’s performance.
The post Michael Saylor’s Strategy Buys More Bitcoin, Now Holds 717,131 BTC appeared first on Blockonomi.
Strategy acquired 2,486 BTC for $168.4 million between February 9 and February 16.
The company’s total Bitcoin holdings now reach 717,131 BTC, valued at around $48.8 billion.
Strategy’s average purchase price for Bitcoin stands at $76,027 per coin, totaling an investment of $54.5 billion.
The Bitcoin acquisition was financed through the sale of 660,000 MSTR shares and 785,354 STRC shares.
Strategy still has $7.88 billion in MSTR shares and $3.54 billion in STRC shares available for issuance.
Michael Saylor’s firm, Strategy, has acquired an additional 2,486 BTC for $168.4 million between February 9 and February 16. This purchase brings the company’s total holdings to 717,131 BTC, valued at approximately $48.8 billion. The recent acquisition was funded by the sale of the company’s own stock, according to an 8-K filing with the SEC.
Latest Bitcoin Acquisition Brings Total to 717,131 BTC
Strategy’s new purchase of 2,486 BTC occurred at an average price of $67,710 per Bitcoin. The acquisition raised the company’s total Bitcoin holdings to 717,131 BTC, worth $48.8 billion. The firm’s average cost per Bitcoin stands at $76,027, which brings the total investment to about $54.5 billion.
The company has seen an increase in its Bitcoin position, despite facing market volatility. With this recent buy, Strategy now holds over 3.4% of Bitcoin’s total supply. However, the value of its holdings is currently marked by approximately $5.7 billion in unrealized losses.
Strategy’s Stock Sales Fund Bitcoin Purchases
To finance the Bitcoin purchases, Strategy sold shares of its Class A common stock and perpetual Stretch preferred stock. The company raised $90.5 million by selling 660,000 MSTR shares and another $78.4 million from selling 785,354 STRC shares. Strategy still has $7.88 billion in MSTR shares and $3.54 billion in STRC shares available for issuance.
These sales are part of a broader funding strategy to acquire Bitcoin. Strategy plans to continue raising capital through a series of equity offerings and convertible notes. The company has outlined its goal to raise $84 billion by 2027 as part of its Bitcoin acquisition plan.
Strategy’s Current Position and Future Plans
As of February 16, Strategy has structured its debt conservatively. The firm believes it can withstand Bitcoin’s price falling to $8,000 while covering its debts. Strategy’s management, including CEO Phong Le, has emphasized that the company’s leverage is half that of investment-grade companies.
The company’s Bitcoin holdings are now worth less than its market cap, with an mNAV ratio of 0.91. Despite these challenges, Strategy’s stock saw a rise of 16.5% last week, with shares closing at $133.88. The firm remains optimistic about its position and its long-term outlook on Bitcoin’s performance.
The post Michael Saylor’s Strategy Buys More Bitcoin, Now Holds 717,131 BTC appeared first on Blockonomi.
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