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Phantom introduced a new MCP Server designed to allow artificial intelligence agents to directly interact with blockchain networks, marking a step toward deeper integration between AI systems and decentralized finance infrastructure.

Key Takeaways:
Phantom launched an MCP Server enabling AI agents to execute onchain transactions.Agents can swap tokens, sign transactions and manage addresses.The tool is compatible with Claude, OpenClaw and other MCP clients.The move signals growing convergence between AI agents and decentralized finance.
The update enables AI agents to swap tokens, sign transactions and manage wallet addresses across Phantom’s supported chains. The company said the server is compatible with MCP-based clients including Claude and OpenClaw, allowing AI tools to execute onchain actions rather than merely generate recommendations or text-based outputs.

Bridging AI and Blockchain Infrastructure
The MCP Server effectively acts as a middleware layer, translating AI-generated instructions into blockchain transactions. By enabling direct signing and execution capabilities, Phantom is positioning itself at the intersection of autonomous AI agents and crypto-native financial activity.
Until now, most AI tools operating in the crypto space have been limited to analytics, trading signals or portfolio insights. Direct transaction execution introduces a new dimension — potentially allowing AI-driven wallets, automated treasury management or algorithmic DeFi strategies to operate with minimal human intervention.
Compatibility with leading MCP clients broadens the addressable ecosystem. As AI platforms increasingly adopt standardized communication protocols, wallet-level integration may become a competitive differentiator among crypto infrastructure providers.
Implications for the Broader Ecosystem
The launch comes amid intensifying interest in AI-powered agents capable of acting autonomously across digital platforms. In crypto markets, where transactions settle continuously and smart contracts automate execution, AI agents may find a natural use case.
However, enabling automated signing and asset management also raises questions around security, governance and risk controls. The degree to which users delegate authority to AI agents — particularly in volatile markets — could become a key consideration for both developers and regulators.
For Phantom, the MCP Server strengthens its positioning beyond a traditional wallet interface, signaling ambitions to serve as foundational infrastructure for AI-driven onchain applications. As AI and blockchain ecosystems increasingly overlap, tools that bridge execution gaps may play a central role in shaping the next phase of decentralized finance.
#Phantom

Capital is rotating aggressively back into Bitcoin as altcoin trading activity contracts sharply, signaling a defensive shift across the crypto market.

Key Takeaways
Altcoin volumes on Binance have dropped nearly 50% since November.Bitcoin reclaimed volume dominance and now holds around 58–60% market share.Whales accumulated over 100,000 BTC in 2026, reinforcing support near $65K.Capital is rotating toward Bitcoin as investors seek liquidity and stability.
After a steep correction, Bitcoin is consolidating between $72,000 and $65,000, a range that has become a battleground for whales, long-term holders, and institutional investors. Trading activity within this zone suggests large players are actively accumulating while broader market sentiment remains cautious.
Binance Data Shows Clear Rotation
A breakdown of trading volumes on Binance highlights a decisive redistribution of liquidity.
As Bitcoin moved back above $60,000, its share of total exchange volume surged. On February 7, BTC accounted for 36.8% of total Binance trading volume, reclaiming dominance and maintaining that lead through mid-February.
In comparison:
Altcoins represented 35.3% of exchange activity.Ethereum accounted for 27.8%.
The contraction in altcoin participation has been severe. In November, altcoins made up 59.2% of Binance trading volume. By February 13, that figure had dropped to 33.6% - an almost 50% decline in activity.
This pattern mirrors previous corrective phases seen in April 2025, August 2024, and October 2022 near the end of the prior bear cycle.

Bitcoin Dominance Near 60%
Broader market metrics reinforce the shift. Bitcoin’s market dominance has stabilized between 58% and 60% as of February 17, reflecting what analysts describe as a “flight to liquidity.” The Altcoin Season Index has retreated to around 41, signaling that the late-2025 altcoin momentum has faded.
While overall altcoin volumes have shrunk, capital has not fully exited the ecosystem. Instead, flows have become more selective, with institutional interest concentrated in higher-liquidity assets such as Ethereum, Solana, and Chainlink.
Whale Accumulation Builds Support
On-chain data shows that wallets holding between 1,000 and 10,000 BTC have added more than 100,000 BTC since the start of 2026. This accumulation has contributed to a perceived price floor in the $60,000 to $70,000 range.
At the same time, recent spot Bitcoin ETF outflows - estimated at roughly 18,000 BTC in mid-February - have added short-term pressure, reinforcing the current consolidation phase.
Bitcoin is now trading near $68,000, with strong support at $65,000 and resistance at $72,000. Meanwhile, Ethereum has lagged, with the ETH/BTC ratio hitting recent lows as ETH trades between $1,950 and $2,250.
Macro Uncertainty Drives Defensive Positioning
Rising macro uncertainty, including questions surrounding the Federal Reserve leadership transition and the nomination of Kevin Walsh, has increased risk aversion across markets.
Historically, during periods of stress, capital consolidates around Bitcoin before dispersing into higher-beta assets. The current environment appears to follow that same blueprint.
As volatility persists, trading behavior suggests investors are prioritizing liquidity and capital preservation - reinforcing Bitcoin’s role as the market’s central benchmark asset.
#bitcoin #altcoins

Bitcoin has officially entered a bear cycle as of February 2026, according to Ki Young Ju, the CEO of CryptoQuant. The call comes as on-chain data and institutional flows point to a structural shift in market dynamics rather than a temporary correction.

Key Takeaways
CryptoQuant CEO Ki Young Ju says Bitcoin entered a clear bear cycle in February 2026.U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs have shifted from heavy buying in 2025 to net selling in early 2026.Bitcoin’s Realized Cap has stalled, signaling weak fresh capital inflows and limited upside momentum.
Ju argues that the current downturn is being driven largely by institutional distribution, reversing the strong accumulation phase that defined much of 2025. In his view, recovery will likely require either a deeper price reset toward the $55,000 realized price level or a prolonged period of sideways consolidation lasting between six and twelve months.
One of the most significant warning signs is the reversal in U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF flows. In early 2025, ETFs were aggressive buyers, absorbing roughly 46,000 BTC. That trend has now flipped. In early 2026, ETFs have reportedly become net sellers, offloading around 10,600 BTC.
This shift represents more than routine portfolio rebalancing. It signals a cooling of institutional appetite that previously acted as a strong price floor. Without consistent ETF inflows, the market has struggled to sustain upward momentum.
Capital Inflows Stall
Ju also highlights stagnation in Bitcoin’s Realized Cap - a metric tracking the total value of coins based on their last moved price. According to him, this indicator has flattened, suggesting that fresh capital is no longer entering the ecosystem at a meaningful pace.
He describes the current environment as “unpumpable,” meaning even large buy orders fail to produce sustained rallies. Without new liquidity, price rebounds tend to fade quickly.
Several technical zones are now under close watch:
$55,000: Considered a major support level based on the average acquisition cost of multiple investor cohorts.$70,000 to $60,000 range: A breakdown below the 365-day moving average increases the probability of further downside into this region.
A decisive move toward $55,000 would align Bitcoin closer to its realized price, historically a zone where long-term bottoms tend to form.
A Different Kind of Bear Market
Unlike previous cycles that saw rapid 50% drawdowns, Ju believes this phase may unfold differently. He argues that Bitcoin’s investor base has matured. Large holders - including corporate treasuries such as MicroStrategy - are unlikely to trigger panic selling waves.
Instead, the market could experience extended sideways movement, gradually absorbing supply rather than collapsing in a single dramatic move.
Another concerning development is the contraction in stablecoin liquidity. For the first time since 2023, circulating supply of Tether (USDT) has declined. Historically, shrinking stablecoin liquidity has coincided with bearish phases, as fewer sidelined dollars are available to re-enter crypto markets.
Combined with ETF outflows and stalled capital growth, the liquidity backdrop adds weight to the bear cycle narrative.
What Comes Next?
If Ju’s assessment proves accurate, Bitcoin may face either a deeper corrective move toward $55,000 or an extended consolidation phase lasting up to a year. While the structure of this downturn may differ from past crashes, the underlying message remains clear: institutional behavior and liquidity conditions now play a decisive role in shaping Bitcoin’s trajectory.
For investors, the coming months could define whether this cycle marks a typical mid-cycle reset - or the beginning of a longer recalibration phase for the world’s largest cryptocurrency.
#bitcoin

Russian authorities are moving closer to a sweeping overhaul of the country’s cryptocurrency market, with foreign exchange platforms potentially facing blocks as early as summer 2026.
Key Takeaways
Foreign crypto exchanges could face DNS-level blocking in Russia starting summer 2026.A new licensing framework must be finalized by July 1, 2026.Domestic exchanges are preparing regulated crypto trading launches.Retail investors will face strict annual purchase limits.
The shift comes ahead of a July 1, 2026 deadline for lawmakers to finalize a national digital asset framework through the State Duma.
According to local reports, once the legislative package is adopted, enforcement could begin almost immediately. The country’s media regulator, Roskomnadzor, is expected to target platforms that fail to secure a domestic license under the new rules.
DNS Blocking and Licensing Pressure
Experts anticipate that authorities may use DNS-level blocking - a method previously applied to platforms such as YouTube and WhatsApp inside Russia. This technique prevents domain names from resolving on local servers, effectively making websites inaccessible without directly shutting them down globally.
Major international crypto venues, including Bybit and OKX, are reportedly among those that could face restrictions if they do not comply with domestic licensing requirements.
The broader objective is economic. Analysts estimate that roughly $15 billion in annual transaction fees currently flows to foreign platforms. Authorities appear determined to redirect that capital toward local financial infrastructure.
Both the Moscow Exchange and the St. Petersburg Exchange have confirmed plans to introduce regulated cryptocurrency trading by mid-2026, signaling that domestic alternatives are already in development.
Two-Tier Investor System
Under the draft framework, Russia plans to introduce a dual-class market structure beginning July 2026.
Non-qualified investors would be limited to purchasing up to 300,000 rubles - approximately $4,000 - per year through a single licensed intermediary. Participation would require passing a mandatory risk assessment.Qualified investors, on the other hand, would face no volume limits but would be prohibited from trading privacy-focused tokens such as Monero and Zcash. Lawmakers argue that these restrictions are necessary to curb anonymous transactions and strengthen oversight.
Importantly, cryptocurrencies will remain banned as a domestic payment method, reinforcing the government’s position that digital assets are investment instruments rather than currency substitutes.
Penalties for operating without a license - classified as “illegal intermediary activities” - are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2027. Proposed sanctions are reportedly aligned with punishments currently applied to unauthorized banking operations.
Europe’s Largest Crypto Market Faces Tightened Control
Despite limited formal regulation to date, Russia is considered Europe’s largest cryptocurrency market by transaction volume, processing an estimated 50 billion rubles - around $647 million - in daily activity.
At the same time, authorities are tightening oversight in related sectors. The Ministry of Energy has proposed a permanent mining ban in energy-sensitive regions such as Buryatia starting in 2026, citing grid stability concerns.
If implemented as outlined, the upcoming framework would mark one of the most aggressive restructurings of a major crypto market in Europe - shifting activity away from global platforms and toward a state-controlled ecosystem built around licensed domestic exchanges.
#crypto #russia

Exchange-traded fund flows tied to major cryptocurrencies were mixed on Feb. 17, reflecting cautious positioning ahead of key U.S. macro catalysts and ongoing volatility across digital assets.

Key Takeaways:
Bitcoin ETFs recorded approximately $104.9 million in net outflows.Ethereum ETFs attracted about $48.6 million in net inflows.Solana ETFs posted modest inflows of roughly $2.2 million.XRP ETF flows were unchanged on the day.
While Bitcoin products recorded net outflows, Ethereum funds drew fresh inflows, and Solana vehicles posted modest gains. XRP-related ETFs were flat.
Bitcoin
Spot Bitcoin ETFs posted a combined net outflow of approximately $104.9 million on Feb. 17. The largest redemptions came from BlackRock’s IBIT, which saw about $119.7 million in outflows. Smaller outflows were recorded across several other issuers, while select products such as Fidelity’s FBTC and Grayscale’s BTC Trust saw limited inflows.
The pullback follows several volatile sessions and underscores a more defensive tone among institutional investors. Despite intermittent inflow days earlier in the month, aggregate flows have turned more uneven as Bitcoin struggles to regain upside momentum.
Bitcoin was trading at $68,180.84, hovering near the upper end of its recent consolidation range. While the asset has rebounded from last week’s dip toward $60,000, it remains well below its October peak. ETF outflows suggest some investors are trimming exposure into strength rather than aggressively adding at current levels.
Ethereum
In contrast, spot Ethereum ETFs recorded net inflows of about $48.6 million on Feb. 17. BlackRock’s ETHA led gains with roughly $22.9 million in new capital, followed by Fidelity’s FETH with $14.4 million. Other issuers posted largely neutral flows.
The inflows mark a relative bright spot for Ethereum-linked products, particularly after a string of choppy sessions earlier this month. Institutional appetite appears more resilient for Ethereum at current levels, possibly reflecting expectations around staking dynamics and broader ecosystem development.Ethereum was trading at $2,020.95, holding above the psychological $2,000 level. While still down significantly from prior highs, the token has shown signs of stabilizing, supported by selective ETF demand.
Solana
Solana ETFs saw modest net inflows totaling approximately $2.2 million. Bitwise’s BSOL and Fidelity’s FSOL were among the products registering incremental gains, while other issuers remained flat.
The relatively small size of the flows reflects the still-developing nature of the Solana ETF market compared with Bitcoin and Ethereum. Even so, consistent positive flows may signal growing institutional interest in alternative layer-1 networks.
Solana was trading at $85.58, posting solid gains over the past week despite broader market uncertainty. Price resilience alongside steady ETF demand could provide near-term support.
XRP
XRP-related ETFs recorded no net inflows or outflows on Feb. 17, indicating a pause in allocation activity. The absence of movement suggests investors are waiting for clearer directional signals before adjusting exposure.
XRP was trading at $1.48, maintaining recent gains but facing resistance after a strong multi-day rally.
Overall, the divergence in flows highlights a more selective institutional approach to crypto exposure. With macroeconomic data and Federal Reserve communications in focus, ETF allocations may remain sensitive to shifts in interest rate expectations and broader risk sentiment.
#BitcoinETFs

The narrative of Bitcoin as “digital gold” faced a serious test in 2025. While Bitcoin entered the year with strong momentum following a major 2024 rally, gold delivered one of its strongest annual performances in decades. The divergence has reshaped the store-of-value debate heading into 2026.

Key Takeaways
Gold surged roughly 55–65% in 2025, reaching new all-time highs near $4,000 per ounce.Bitcoin ended 2025 flat to negative after peaking above $120,000 earlier in the year.Outlook for 2026 remains mixed: gold maintains structural tailwinds, while Bitcoin depends on renewed liquidity and institutional catalysts.
With gold benefiting from fiscal stress, inflation hedging flows, and central bank accumulation, and Bitcoin struggling under risk-asset dynamics and reduced institutional inflows, the performance gap widened meaningfully.
2025: A Year of Divergence
Gold entered 2025 trading around $2,600–$2,800 per ounce and built steadily throughout the year. Escalating U.S. fiscal deficits, persistent inflation concerns, and continued diversification by emerging market central banks fueled demand. By September, gold had reached approximately $3,674 per ounce, before pushing toward the $4,000 level in the fourth quarter.
Full-year returns are estimated between +45% and +70%, with consensus clustering near +55–65%. In contrast, Bitcoin peaked above $120,000–$126,000 early in 2025 but struggled to sustain momentum. Regulatory uncertainty, declining ETF inflows, and broader risk-off conditions pressured performance.
By year-end, Bitcoin returns ranged from slightly positive to negative across datasets, with several estimates pointing to a decline of 5–17%. The relative underperformance marked one of the rare periods in which gold clearly outpaced Bitcoin in annual returns.
Structural Drivers Behind Gold’s Strength
Gold’s rally was underpinned by macroeconomic forces rather than speculative positioning. Key drivers included:
U.S. federal deficits approaching $1.8 trillion.Persistent inflation expectations.Central bank accumulation, particularly from emerging markets.Geopolitical instability increasing safe-haven demand.
Unlike Bitcoin, which often trades as a high-beta risk asset during tightening cycles, gold retained its traditional role as a volatility dampener. Its realized volatility remained significantly lower than Bitcoin’s, which hovered around 50% in 2025.
Bitcoin’s 2025 Headwinds
Bitcoin’s weakness stemmed from multiple overlapping factors. Post-ETF enthusiasm faded, institutional inflows moderated, and correlations with risk assets resurfaced during periods of macro stress. The anticipated decoupling from traditional markets did not fully materialize.
The BTC/Gold ratio, often used to gauge Bitcoin’s relative strength versus gold, stalled near prior highs but failed to break into sustained outperformance territory. The result was a year in which gold dominated the store-of-value narrative.
2026 Outlook: Can Bitcoin Regain Momentum?
Looking ahead to 2026, projections for both assets remain constructive but uneven. Some market participants argue that the BTC/Gold ratio may be forming a structural bottom after its 2025 breakdown. Analysts such as IncomeSharks have pointed to technical compression in the ratio, suggesting Bitcoin could regain relative strength if macro risk appetite improves.
Gold Projections
Major financial institutions have raised gold targets toward the $5,000–$5,400 range by late 2026, with more optimistic scenarios extending beyond $6,000 under continued macro stress. Even conservative outlooks imply mid-single to double-digit percentage gains.
Central bank demand and geopolitical hedging flows remain persistent structural supports.
Bitcoin Projections
Bitcoin entered 2026 trading roughly 30% below its 2025 highs, in the $67,000–$70,000 range. Forecasts vary widely. Some analysts see recovery toward $100,000 by year-end, while more bullish projections extend into the $150,000–$230,000 range if liquidity conditions improve and halving cycle dynamics resume their historical pattern.
Short-term downside scenarios toward $50,000–$75,000 remain plausible if macro pressures persist.
Relative Performance Odds
Prediction markets and sentiment indicators suggest a modest tilt toward Bitcoin outperforming gold in 2026, though conviction remains limited. Bitcoin’s fixed supply and digital scarcity thesis continue to attract long-term capital, while gold’s demand remains grounded in macro stability concerns.
In effect, gold’s trajectory is supported by structural macro tailwinds, whereas Bitcoin’s path depends more heavily on liquidity expansion and risk appetite recovery.
Long-Term Perspective
Over multi-year horizons, Bitcoin has historically outpaced gold in percentage terms, particularly during expansionary cycles. However, 2025 demonstrated that Bitcoin does not always function as a direct substitute for gold during fiscal or geopolitical stress.
The divergence underscores that while both assets serve as alternatives to fiat systems, their behavior differs significantly across macro regimes.
Conclusion
Bitcoin did not overshadow gold in 2025. Gold’s rally, driven by deficits, inflation, and geopolitical uncertainty, dominated the performance landscape. For 2026, Bitcoin retains potential for outperformance if liquidity conditions shift and institutional flows return. However, gold’s structural momentum suggests it may continue to command safe-haven preference in a fragile macro environment.
Rather than viewing the assets as direct competitors, investors may increasingly treat them as complementary hedges that rotate in leadership depending on economic conditions.
#BitcoinVsGold

Billionaire investor Peter Thiel and his venture firm Founders Fund have fully walked away from ETHZilla, marking a decisive end to what was once a high-profile bet on the company’s Ethereum-focused treasury model.

Key Takeaways
Peter Thiel has completely exited ETHZilla, reducing his stake from 7.5% to 0%.The stock has collapsed roughly 97% from 2025 highs amid strategy turmoil.ETHZilla has pivoted from an Ethereum treasury model to tokenizing jet engines and other real-world assets.The firm now offers projected yields of around 11%, competing with other RWA platforms. 
According to the latest filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Thiel now reports owning zero shares. Just six months earlier, he had disclosed a 7.5% stake, positioning himself as one of the company’s most prominent backers.
The exit triggered fresh selling pressure, with ETHZilla shares dropping more than 5% in overnight trading. The stock has already plunged roughly 97% from its 2025 peak, reflecting a dramatic loss of investor confidence.
From Ethereum Treasury to Asset Tokenization
ETHZilla - formerly known as 180 Life Sciences - rebranded in 2025 and attempted to mirror the Bitcoin balance sheet strategy popularized by MicroStrategy, but with Ethereum instead. The approach quickly ran into trouble as crypto markets weakened.
Falling ETH prices forced the company to liquidate significant portions of its holdings. In December 2025 alone, it sold about $74.5 million worth of Ethereum to repay senior secured convertible notes and stabilize its balance sheet.
Today, ETHZilla reportedly holds around 69,800 ETH, valued near $139 million. However, its financial health remains fragile, with an Altman Z-Score of -0.54 signaling elevated bankruptcy risk.
A Radical Pivot: Jet Engines on Blockchain
In a dramatic shift, the company has abandoned its “Digital Asset Treasury” narrative and repositioned itself as a real-world asset tokenization platform.
Through its new unit, ETHZilla Aerospace LLC, the firm launched Eurus Aero Token I - a product allowing investors to buy fractional exposure to two CFM56 jet engines acquired for $12.2 million.
Each token is priced at $100, with a minimum investment of $1,000. The offering promises projected annual returns of around 11% through 2028, generated from lease payments by a major U.S. airline. The tokens are issued on Arbitrum and distributed via Liquidity.io, backed by collateral including the engines themselves, lease receivables, and insurance proceeds.
Competing in the RWA Yield Race
ETHZilla’s projected 11% yield places it above products offered by Ondo Finance, which typically generate around 3%-5% from Treasury-based strategies, and closer to the 8%-12% range seen on Centrifuge private credit deals.
Unlike Ondo’s focus on tokenized U.S. Treasuries, ETHZilla is betting on physical infrastructure - jet engines and potentially other machinery - to attract yield-seeking investors.
What Thiel’s Exit Signals
Despite abandoning ETHZilla, Thiel’s crypto exposure remains intact. Founders Fund continues to hold significant direct positions in Bitcoin and Ethereum, having invested roughly $200 million across the two assets in 2023-2024.
Market analysts interpret the move as a broader shift: away from publicly traded “crypto proxy” companies that mirror token prices, and toward either direct token ownership or structured real-world asset applications.
Meanwhile, ETHZilla plans to expand tokenization into manufactured home loans, auto financing, and heavy industrial equipment in 2026 - an ambitious roadmap that will test whether its new strategy can succeed where its Ethereum treasury experiment failed.
#ETH

Bitcoin’s prolonged downturn is entering a more fragile phase as long-term holders begin to show visible signs of stress, adding new pressure to an already weakened market structure.
Key Takeaways
Bitcoin is still over 45% below its all-time high.Long-term holders are now selling at a loss (LTH SOPR below 1).Inflows from LTHs to Binance are rising, signaling potential selling pressure.Retail continues to distribute while institutions absorb supply.
The asset is still trading more than 45% below its previous all-time high, and what initially looked like a healthy correction is increasingly resembling a deeper adjustment cycle. While short-term traders have borne much of the volatility in recent months, fresh data suggests that even seasoned investors are no longer immune.
Long-Term Holders Start Realizing Losses
One of the clearest warning signals comes from the Long-Term Holder Spent Output Profit Ratio (LTH SOPR), a metric that tracks whether long-term holders are selling at a profit or a loss. Historically, this group has been the backbone of Bitcoin’s resilience, typically distributing coins only during strong bullish phases.
However, the indicator has now slipped below the critical level of 1, falling to 0.88. When SOPR drops under 1, it means coins are being sold at a loss on average. This marks the first such occurrence since the end of the 2023 bear market. Although the annual average remains elevated at 1.87, the recent breakdown signals a shift in behavior.
In practical terms, long-term holders are beginning to capitulate at the margins, locking in losses rather than waiting for a full recovery. That transition often reflects mounting financial pressure and declining confidence in near-term upside.
Binance Inflows Signal Active Repositioning
At the same time, on-chain data shows a notable increase in Bitcoin inflows from long-term holders to Binance. Recent sessions recorded daily inflows reaching roughly double the annual average, with several consecutive spikes highlighting unusually elevated activity.
Such movements are rarely random. Binance’s deep liquidity makes it a preferred venue for executing large transactions, meaning that heightened inflows from this cohort are typically associated with preparation to sell or actively rebalance positions.

The pattern has been visible since the last all-time high but has intensified in recent weeks. Sustained inflow spikes suggest this is not isolated profit-taking but part of a broader repositioning process among large, experienced holders.
Retail Distribution Accelerates
Ownership data further reinforces this shift. Over the past two years, individuals have sold more than 1.2 million BTC - over 6% of the circulating supply. Retail investors have steadily reduced their exposure while ETFs, funds, and public companies have absorbed a significant portion of the supply.

This structural redistribution highlights a changing market composition. As retail distributes and institutional vehicles accumulate, volatility dynamics and liquidity flows evolve accordingly.
However, the recent increase in exchange inflows suggests that selling pressure has not fully subsided.
Rising Selling Pressure in a Fragile Market
The combination of LTH SOPR slipping into loss territory and elevated Binance inflows creates a concerning backdrop. When historically resilient holders begin realizing losses and simultaneously move coins onto exchanges, it often precedes heightened volatility.
While this does not guarantee further downside, it signals that the correction is entering an adjustment phase. Even long-term participants are actively managing exposure rather than passively holding through the storm.
If this trend persists, Bitcoin could remain under pressure in the short to medium term, as supply coming from experienced holders adds to an already cautious market environment.
#bitcoin

Italian banking heavyweight Intesa Sanpaolo has significantly expanded its exposure to digital assets, according to its February 17, 2026 Form 13F filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Key Takeaways
Intesa Sanpaolo increased its spot Bitcoin ETF exposure to $96 million by the end of 2025.The bank holds positions in ARKB and IBIT, alongside a large hedge via MicroStrategy put options.Smaller allocations include a Solana staking ETF and equity in Circle.The move reflects a broader trend of European banks integrating regulated crypto products into client portfolios. 
As of December 31, 2025, the lender held approximately $96 million in spot Bitcoin ETFs - a dramatic increase from the roughly $1 million “test” allocation disclosed earlier in 2025. The move marks one of the clearest signals yet that major European banks are growing more comfortable with regulated crypto instruments.
Bitcoin ETFs Lead the Allocation
The bulk of Intesa’s digital asset exposure is concentrated in spot Bitcoin ETFs listed in the United States.
The filing shows $72.6 million invested in the ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF and another $23.4 million in the iShares Bitcoin Trust. Together, these positions account for the full $96 million in spot Bitcoin ETF holdings.
Compared to the symbolic 11 BTC exposure reported earlier in the year, the scale-up suggests that digital assets are moving from experimental allocation to structured portfolio component within the bank’s broader investment framework.
Hedging via MicroStrategy Put Options
Beyond ETFs, Intesa disclosed a substantial $184 million position in put options tied to MicroStrategy stock.
The strategy appears designed to hedge volatility related to MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin-heavy balance sheet. Given that MSTR often trades at a premium or discount to its Bitcoin net asset value, these derivatives may serve as a tactical positioning tool relative to Bitcoin’s market movements.
This indicates a more sophisticated approach than simple ETF exposure - blending direct crypto-linked products with equity derivatives tied to corporate Bitcoin proxies.
Exposure to Solana and Stablecoins
The filing also reveals smaller but notable allocations outside Bitcoin.
Intesa holds approximately $4.3 million in the Bitwise Solana Staking ETF, giving it exposure to staking-based yield strategies tied to the Solana ecosystem.
In addition, the bank owns about $4.4 million in shares of Circle, the issuer behind the USDC stablecoin - signaling interest not only in volatile assets but also in the infrastructure layer of digital finance.
Client Assets or Proprietary Bet?
As a 13F disclosure, the reported holdings most likely represent assets managed on behalf of discretionary wealth management clients rather than the bank’s proprietary balance sheet. However, the institution retains active buy-and-sell authority over these positions, meaning the strategic direction still reflects internal conviction.
The expansion aligns with Intesa’s 2026–2029 business roadmap, which emphasizes a more technology-driven and fee-based revenue model. The bank has explicitly highlighted the scaling of its digital asset platform within its IMI Corporate & Investment Banking division.
Part of a Broader European Shift
Intesa’s disclosure follows similar moves by BNP Paribas in 2025, reinforcing a wider institutional trend across Europe.
For years, large European banks remained cautious about direct crypto exposure. The steady adoption of regulated spot ETFs and structured products now suggests Bitcoin is increasingly viewed as a legitimate portfolio component rather than a speculative fringe asset.
With nearly $100 million in direct ETF exposure and additional derivative and ecosystem-linked positions, Intesa Sanpaolo’s filing may represent a turning point - not just for the bank, but for institutional crypto adoption across Europe.
#BitcoinETF

Bitcoin is now trading in a historically important price zone - one that has often acted as either a launchpad for recovery or the start of deeper capitulation.

Key Takeaways
Bitcoin is trading near a historically important support zone.Long-term holders have started selling at a loss, with SOPR falling to 0.88.This behavior was last seen near the end of the 2023 bear market.The broader trend still shows most long-term holders in profit.
According to on-chain analytics platform Alphractal, Bitcoin is hovering around a key support level based on the average price paid by short-term holders. In past cycles, when price falls into this area, one of two things usually happens: either a local bottom forms, or the market enters a stronger selloff before long-term accumulation begins.

At the same time, another important signal is flashing.
Long-Term Holders Are Starting to Feel Pressure
The Long-Term Holder SOPR - a metric that shows whether long-term investors are selling in profit or at a loss - has just dropped below 1, currently sitting at 0.88. When this indicator falls below 1, it means long-term holders are, on average, selling Bitcoin at a loss.

This has not happened since the final phase of the 2023 bear market.
Historically, when long-term holders begin realizing losses, it signals rising stress in the market. These are typically the most patient investors, so when they start selling under pressure, sentiment is clearly weakening. However, the situation is not extreme yet.
On a broader timeframe, the monthly average of the indicator still remains above 1, meaning most long-term holders are still in profit overall.
Not Capitulation - But Early Warning Signs
True bear market endings have typically been marked by much deeper loss realization, where selling becomes widespread and emotionally driven.
We are not there yet.
Instead, the current data suggests early-stage pressure rather than full capitulation. If Bitcoin stabilizes here, this zone could become a reset point before recovery. If selling intensifies, the market could move into a deeper correction phase.
For now, the message from on-chain data is clear: pressure is building - but surrender has not arrived.
#bitcoin

Litecoin (LTC) has spent much of the past cycle oscillating between relevance and stagnation.

Key Takeaways
Litecoin is likely to trade in the $95–$120 range in 2026 under base-case conditions.A strong 2027–2028 crypto cycle could push LTC toward $150–$200.Long-term upside toward $250–$300 by 2030 depends heavily on Bitcoin-led expansion.
As one of the oldest actively traded cryptocurrencies, it continues to function as a liquidity bridge and transactional asset, but its price performance has lagged behind newer narratives in the market.
2026: Stabilization Above $100?
Assuming broader crypto markets maintain structural recovery into 2026, Litecoin has a reasonable probability of stabilizing between $95 and $120. This range reflects moderate capital inflows without assuming speculative excess.
A conservative framework would place LTC closer to $80–$100 if macro conditions remain tight or altcoin liquidity underperforms. Conversely, sustained Bitcoin strength and improving sentiment could help Litecoin establish a base above $100, a psychologically and technically important threshold.
At this stage, 2026 appears more consistent with consolidation and gradual appreciation rather than breakout acceleration.
2027: Cycle Acceleration Phase
If historical cycle patterns repeat, Litecoin tends to lag Bitcoin early in expansions and then participate more aggressively once capital rotates into mid-cap assets. In a strong cycle environment, price levels between $150 and $200 become plausible.
However, this outcome is conditional. Litecoin’s upside depends less on internal innovation and more on macro liquidity and Bitcoin dominance dynamics. Without renewed speculative appetite, price expansion may remain capped.
2030: Structural Growth or Utility Plateau?
By 2030, Litecoin’s trajectory will likely reflect one of two scenarios:
Utility-Driven Growth: Gradual appreciation into the $180–$220 range as adoption expands steadily.Cycle-Driven Expansion: A return toward $250–$300 if a major bull market lifts legacy altcoins alongside Bitcoin.
While projections toward $300+ are possible, they assume a broad expansion phase rather than asset-specific catalysts. Litecoin historically mirrors macro cycles rather than creating them.
Technical Structure and Cycle Behavior
Technically, Litecoin continues to respect long-term macro structure similar to prior cycles. Analysts such as Michaël van de Poppe have previously highlighted the importance of multi-year support zones and altcoin cycle rotations in assessing LTC’s potential to revisit $150–$250 ranges during bullish phases.
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What remains consistent across cycles is Litecoin’s high correlation with Bitcoin. It rarely leads, but it often participates once momentum broadens.
Risk Factors
Several structural risks remain:
Persistent underperformance versus newer layer-1 networks.Declining retail speculation in older assets.Liquidity concentration around Bitcoin and Ethereum.Regulatory developments impacting exchange listings or derivatives access.
Additionally, Litecoin’s lack of a dominant narrative in emerging sectors such as DeFi, RWA, or AI-linked tokens may limit speculative upside compared with trend-driven assets.
Final Assessment
Litecoin’s long-term outlook remains constructive but is dependant on various factors. The asset benefits from longevity, exchange integration, and established liquidity, yet it does not currently command a disruptive narrative.
In a strong market cycle, LTC can reasonably target the $150–$200 region, with $250–$300 possible in peak speculative phases. In a slower-growth environment, price appreciation may remain confined below $200 through 2030.
Ultimately, Litecoin’s path is less about innovation-driven revaluation and more about its position within broader crypto liquidity cycles. Investors should frame expectations accordingly.
#LTCPricePrediction

Strategy added 2,486 BTC for about $168.4 million, paying roughly $67,710 per coin, extending an accumulation strategy championed by Executive Chairman Michael Saylor.

Key Takeaways:
Strategy acquired 2,486 Bitcoin for approximately $168.4 million.Total holdings increased to 717,131 Bitcoin.The latest purchase price was below the company’s average cost basis.On-chain transaction fees fell to about $0.44 during the holiday period.
The purchase was disclosed alongside commentary highlighting the Bitcoin network’s ability to process global payments for less than $1 during a bank holiday weekend.

The latest acquisition lifts Strategy’s total holdings to 717,131 Bitcoin as of Feb. 16, 2026. The company said it has spent approximately $54.52 billion building its position, implying an average purchase price of about $76,027 per coin. The most recent buy was executed below that average cost, reinforcing the firm’s pattern of accumulating during periods of price weakness.
Bitcoin Network Fees Hold at Minimal Levels
Michael Saylor usually hints his Monday-Bitcoin buys on Sunday, but instead of announcing purchase on Monday, he shared network data on X with transaction fees quoted at 1 satoshi per virtual byte, translating to about $0.44 for an on-chain transfer.
Fee estimates were identical across immediate, hourly, daily and weekly confirmation windows, suggesting limited congestion and subdued demand for block space. The implied transaction cost was roughly 0.0003% of value transferred.

Supporters argue that low-fee environments underscore Bitcoin’s utility as a global settlement layer that operates continuously, even when traditional banking systems are closed. Detractors counter that fees can spike during periods of heightened activity, making costs less predictable.
Strategy, widely regarded as the largest known corporate holder of Bitcoin, has framed the digital asset as its primary treasury reserve. The company’s shares and related securities tend to move in tandem with Bitcoin’s price, amplifying market reactions to both accumulation updates and shifts in network conditions.
#bitcoin

Paxos is urging banks to stop viewing stablecoins as niche crypto tools and instead recognize them as foundational components of the global financial system.

Key Takeaways
Stablecoins are evolving into core financial infrastructure, not just crypto tools.Banks must now decide how - not whether - to integrate them.Paxos outlines four models: issue, white-label, support existing coins, or join shared networks.Institutional adoption is accelerating as regulatory clarity improves.
In its latest Stablecoin Strategy Guide for Banks, the firm argues that the industry has moved past experimentation and into what it describes as a “systems phase.”
According to the report, the debate is no longer about whether banks should engage with stablecoins - but how they should structure a compliant and scalable strategy.
A Shift From Closed Tokens to Open Infrastructure
Paxos says the “old playbook,” where institutions experimented with proprietary, closed-loop digital tokens, no longer reflects market reality. Stablecoins are now embedded in global liquidity flows, and issuers collectively hold more U.S. Treasuries than several sovereign nations, making them systemically relevant players in debt markets.
The company outlines four strategic paths for banks:
Issuing their own branded stablecoin using regulated infrastructureWhite-labeling a partner-issued tokenSupporting established regulated coins such as PayPal USD (PYUSD) or USDPJoining shared settlement networks focused on cross-border payments
At the core of Paxos’ framework is what it calls the “regulated trust company” model. This structure, it argues, offers bankruptcy remoteness, strict 1:1 asset backing, and risk management standards aligned with bank-grade requirements.
Stablecoins Enter the “Systems Phase” in 2026
The guidance comes as the stablecoin sector evolves beyond a single dominant token model. New launches such as USAD - designed for confidential B2B transactions - reflect a growing trend toward segmented, use-case-specific digital dollars rather than one universal coin.
Institutional adoption is also accelerating. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corp. is preparing stablecoin initiatives for cross-border settlements, while a consortium of nine European banks is reportedly developing joint deployments aimed at improving payment efficiency across jurisdictions.
Paxos CEO Charles Cascarilla has described blockchain infrastructure as a once-in-a-generation opportunity, particularly for community banks seeking to compete with larger institutions. By leveraging stablecoins for faster settlement and global reach, smaller banks could narrow the competitive gap without building costly proprietary systems from scratch.
Regulatory Validation and Expansion
Paxos’ positioning is reinforced by a key regulatory milestone. In July 2024, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission formally closed its investigation into BUSD without recommending enforcement action, marking a legal victory for the company’s regulated issuance model.
Since then, Paxos has expanded its infrastructure footprint. The firm continues to issue PYUSD for PayPal and recently acquired digital asset custody provider Fordefi to strengthen institutional services.
The broader message is clear: stablecoins are transitioning from crypto utility to financial plumbing. For banks weighing their next move, Paxos argues the competitive risk now lies not in participation - but in standing still.
#Paxos

A sharp downturn in Bitcoin and the wider crypto market may be sending an early warning signal for traditional financial markets, according to Bloomberg Intelligence strategist Mike McGlone.

Key Takeaways
Bitcoin’s drop could be signaling broader market weakness.U.S. stock valuations are at extreme levels while volatility stays unusually low.Gold and silver are gaining strength as risk assets lose momentum.The long-running “buy the dip” strategy may be nearing its end.
In his latest analysis, he argues that the unwind in digital assets could foreshadow the next U.S. recession and mark the end of the long-standing “buy the dip” era that has defined markets since the 2008 financial crisis.
McGlone suggests that what many analysts are likely to frame as a “healthy correction” could instead be the beginning of a deeper structural reset. He points to a combination of extreme equity valuations, unusually low volatility, and accelerating gains in precious metals as signs that risk assets may be nearing exhaustion.
Valuations Stretch to Historic Extremes
One of the central pillars of his argument is the U.S. stock market capitalization-to-GDP ratio, which has climbed to levels not seen in roughly a century. Historically, such elevated readings have coincided with periods of excessive optimism and have often preceded major corrections.
At the same time, volatility metrics tell a conflicting story. The 180-day volatility for both the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq 100 sits near its lowest level in about eight years. For McGlone, suppressed volatility in the face of stretched valuations reflects complacency rather than stability - a condition that can reverse abruptly.

Crypto Weakness as a Leading Indicator
The strategist describes the ongoing crypto downturn as more than a simple pullback. He characterizes it as a bursting bubble, arguing that speculative enthusiasm surrounding digital assets - amplified in part by renewed political optimism under President Donald Trump - is beginning to fade.
In his comparative chart analysis, McGlone aligns Bitcoin (adjusted by dividing its price by ten) with the S&P 500. As of mid-February, both assets were hovering below the 7,000 level on that adjusted scale. He contends that Bitcoin, as a high-beta and volatility-sensitive asset, is unlikely to maintain those levels if equities begin to retreat.
His base case scenario includes an initial move toward 5,600 on the S&P 500 - a level he equates with roughly $56,000 for Bitcoin. Beyond that, he raises the possibility of a much deeper retracement. In an extreme outcome tied to a broader equity market peak, McGlone does not rule out Bitcoin reverting toward the $10,000 region.
Gold and Silver Gain Momentum
While risk assets show signs of fatigue, precious metals are moving in the opposite direction. McGlone notes that gold and silver are capturing performance leadership at a pace not witnessed in decades. Rising volatility in metals markets could, in his view, spill over into equities.
The rotation toward hard assets reflects a shift in investor psychology. If capital continues flowing into gold and silver while cryptocurrencies and equities lose momentum, it may signal a broader rebalancing away from speculative growth and toward defensive positioning.
Is the Buy-the-Dip Era Ending?
For nearly two decades, investors have been conditioned to treat every meaningful pullback as an opportunity. McGlone argues that this reflex may soon be tested. If equity benchmarks such as the S&P 500 near 7,000 or the Dow Jones Industrial Average approach 50,000, he questions whether those levels would represent sustainable peaks - or the final stages of an overheated cycle.
The broader implication of his thesis is clear: collapsing crypto prices may not be an isolated event. Instead, they could be the first crack in a much larger structure, one built on elevated valuations, low volatility, and persistent faith in policy support.
Whether markets experience a controlled correction or a more disruptive downturn may depend on how quickly investors reassess risk in a shifting macroeconomic environment.
#cryptocrash

Short-term technical projections suggest ADA could grind higher into month-end, though broader chart structure remains cautious.

Key Takeaways
ADA trades around $0.30 after a monthly drop of nearly 25%, showing signs of short-term stabilization.February projections place ADA in a $0.298–$0.324 range, with an average target near $0.311.Technical signals are mildly bullish short-term but remain bearish on higher timeframes.
Cardano (ADA) is attempting to stabilize after a volatile start to 2026. Trading near $0.30 as of February 16–18, the token has rebounded roughly 4% in recent sessions and is up about 7% over the past week. The move follows a sharper monthly decline of nearly 25% from levels around $0.37, positioning February as a potential consolidation phase rather than a decisive trend reversal.
February 2026 Price Forecast Range
Model-based projections for the remainder of February outline a relatively narrow trading band:
Minimum: $0.298Average: $0.311Maximum: $0.324

From current levels around $0.30, the upper bound implies approximately 8% upside by February 28. However, the projected average of $0.311 signals consolidation rather than breakout momentum. Relative to recent highs near $0.37, ADA remains materially below prior peaks.
Daily Trajectory Into Month-End
Short-term projections anticipate a gradual upward drift rather than a sharp rally. The expected path shows ADA hovering near $0.299 in mid-February before steadily building toward $0.324 by February 28, with a modest extension toward $0.326 entering early March.
This scenario assumes stable broader crypto conditions and the absence of macroeconomic shocks. The trajectory reflects reduced selling pressure rather than strong speculative inflows.
Technical Structure: Short-Term Relief, Long-Term Resistance
On lower timeframes, the 4-hour chart shows constructive signs. A rising 50-period moving average suggests improving short-term momentum, potentially supporting relief rallies.
However, daily and weekly charts remain structurally cautious. The 50-day and 200-day moving averages continue to slope downward and sit above price action, forming resistance zones that ADA must overcome to confirm a sustained trend shift.
Market sentiment indicators reinforce the mixed picture. The Fear & Greed Index sits in Extreme Fear territory (around 8), historically associated with capitulation phases but also signaling fragile confidence. Approximately 40% of the last 30 trading days have closed green, with volatility near 14%, suggesting choppy but contained price behavior.
Fundamental Drivers and Network Developments
Recent whale accumulation patterns and ongoing network upgrades, including governance enhancements under Voltaire and scaling initiatives such as Hydra, provide a constructive backdrop. If broader market stability persists, these developments could help anchor ADA’s base near current levels.
At the same time, retail demand remains subdued, and on-chain activity has yet to show a decisive acceleration. Without stronger participation or ecosystem catalysts, upside momentum may remain limited.
Macro and Market Risks
External conditions remain a key variable. Elevated interest rates, continued rotation away from altcoins, or renewed risk-off sentiment across digital assets could cap gains. A sustained break below $0.29 would weaken the short-term stabilization thesis and increase the probability of extended sideways trading.
Conversely, Bitcoin stability and broader crypto recovery dynamics could support ADA’s projected gradual advance into month-end.
Outlook: Consolidation Before Confirmation
Looking ahead to the end of February 2026, projections reflect restrained optimism. With ADA hovering near $0.30 and short-term technical signals improving, a move toward $0.324 by February 28 remains plausible. However, longer-term moving averages continue to trend downward, underscoring the need for confirmation beyond a single-month recovery.
For now, February appears more consistent with consolidation and base-building than with the start of a sustained breakout phase.
#Cardano

SBI Holdings Chief Executive Officer Yoshitaka Kitao has denied reports that the Japanese financial group maintains a $10 billion direct position in XRP, clarifying instead that the firm holds an equity stake of roughly 9% in Ripple Labs.

Key Takeaways:
SBI CEO Yoshitaka Kitao denied claims of a $10 billion direct XRP holding.The firm confirmed it holds approximately 9% equity in Ripple Labs.The clarification distinguishes between token exposure and corporate ownership.Ripple equity differs structurally from holding XRP on balance sheet.The statement may temper speculation about institutional XRP accumulation.
The statement addresses speculation circulating in crypto markets regarding the scale of SBI’s exposure to XRP, the token associated with Ripple’s cross-border payments ecosystem.

Separating Equity From Token Exposure
Market participants had speculated that SBI - a long-time Ripple partner - held a multibillion-dollar direct position in XRP. Kitao’s clarification draws a distinction between owning XRP tokens and owning shares in Ripple Labs, the private company behind much of the XRP ecosystem’s development.
An equity stake in Ripple provides exposure to the company’s performance, partnerships, and enterprise solutions. Direct XRP holdings, by contrast, would represent balance-sheet exposure to token price fluctuations.
The distinction is significant for investors assessing institutional support for XRP markets.
SBI’s Longstanding Relationship With Ripple
SBI has maintained close ties with Ripple for years, including joint ventures focused on cross-border payments in Asia. The firm has been one of Ripple’s most prominent strategic partners outside the United States.
Its confirmed ~9% ownership in Ripple Labs underscores a continued corporate alignment but stops short of validating claims of massive token accumulation.
Market Implications
Rumors of large institutional XRP positions can influence sentiment, particularly during periods of heightened volatility. Kitao’s statement may reduce expectations of direct token-backed balance sheet support from SBI.
That said, equity ownership in Ripple still signals confidence in the company’s long-term business prospects, even if it does not equate to immediate XRP demand.
The clarification highlights a recurring issue in digital asset markets: conflation between token exposure and corporate investment in blockchain firms.
Technical Picture: XRP Consolidates Near $1.48 as Momentum Softens
Аt the time of writing XRP was trading around $1.4827, down slightly on the session, as price action continued to consolidate within a tight intraday range.

The chart shows multiple attempts to reclaim the $1.50–$1.51 area earlier in the day, followed by a sharp pullback toward the $1.46 region before stabilizing. Volume remains moderate, suggesting neither aggressive accumulation nor capitulation at current levels. The repeated rejection near $1.51 highlights short-term resistance, while the $1.46–$1.47 zone has emerged as a near-term support band after absorbing selling pressure.
Momentum indicators reflect a market in equilibrium rather than strong directional conviction. The MACD (12, 26, 9) is hovering just below the zero line, with the signal and MACD lines closely intertwined - typically a sign of consolidation rather than trend expansion.
Meanwhile, the RSI (14) sits near 39–45, below the neutral 50 level but not yet in oversold territory. This positioning suggests mild bearish momentum without extreme exhaustion. Unless RSI reclaims the midline decisively or MACD turns positive with widening separation, XRP may remain range-bound in the short term, with traders watching for a breakout above $1.50 or a renewed test of lower support.
#Ripple

XRP is facing renewed scrutiny after Standard Chartered sharply lowered its year-end 2026 price forecast to $2.80.The revised target represents a 65% reduction from the bank’s previous $8 projection and reflects what its digital assets research team describes as a far more hostile macroeconomic backdrop.
The downgrade comes as global liquidity conditions tighten and risk assets remain under pressure. XRP, which recently touched $1.66 before sliding roughly 16%, is now trading closer to the $1.48-$1.50 range. The move underscores how quickly sentiment has shifted across the broader crypto market.
Forecast Reset Signals Broader Risk Repricing
The revised $2.80 target suggests the bank sees limited upside from current levels compared to its earlier, more aggressive outlook. Analysts point to weaker capital flows, heightened volatility, and reduced speculative appetite as key reasons behind the recalibration.
This is not an isolated adjustment. The bank also lowered its year-end 2026 Bitcoin forecast to $100,000, down from $150,000 and far below its earlier $300,000 estimate. The pattern indicates a broader reassessment of digital asset valuations rather than XRP-specific weakness alone.
Technical Picture: Momentum Cooling After $1.66 Rejection
From a technical standpoint, XRP’s recent rejection near $1.66 appears significant. The one-hour chart shows momentum fading after the spike, with price consolidating below the $1.50 psychological level.

MACD has flattened and recently crossed into mildly negative territory before attempting stabilization, signaling waning bullish momentum. Meanwhile, RSI has cooled toward the mid-range around 50, suggesting neither oversold nor overbought conditions - a sign the market is waiting for direction.
Spot CVD data shows notable sell pressure from certain exchanges following the $1.66 high. A wave of aggressive market sells contributed to the pullback, reinforcing the idea that the breakout lacked sustained follow-through.
Key short-term levels to watch include support around $1.40 and resistance near $1.60. A decisive break above the recent high would challenge the bearish narrative, while a move below $1.40 could invite deeper retracement.
SBI Holdings Clarifies XRP Exposure
Adding to the conversation, SBI Holdings recently rejected claims that it directly holds $10 billion worth of XRP. The Japanese financial group clarified that while it maintains a strategic relationship with Ripple Labs and owns a stake in the company, it does not hold that amount in XRP tokens.
The clarification matters because speculation about institutional balance sheet exposure can influence market sentiment. For now, direct corporate accumulation narratives around XRP remain limited.
Broader Crypto Outlook Turns Cautious
Standard Chartered’s downgrade of both XRP and Bitcoin suggests institutional analysts are preparing for a prolonged period of constrained upside across digital assets. The environment of tighter financial conditions and weaker risk appetite is reshaping expectations that were once aggressively bullish.
For XRP holders, the message is clear: optimism remains, but it is now tempered by macro reality. The $2.80 target still implies potential appreciation from current levels - just not the explosive rally that was once anticipated.
#Xrp🔥🔥

Tensions are rising between Binance and parts of the U.S. media and regulatory ecosystem after allegations surfaced that the exchange failed to act on transactions linked to sanctioned Iranian entities.

Key Takeaways
Binance denies any sanctions violations and rejects claims of retaliatory firings.The disputed transactions involved USDT on Tron between 2024 and 2025.The allegations come during heightened U.S. enforcement targeting entire crypto exchanges tied to Iran.Stablecoins are under growing scrutiny as part of Washington’s broader sanctions strategy.
The controversy comes at a time when Washington is sharply escalating enforcement actions against crypto platforms tied to Tehran.
The dispute was triggered by an investigative report claiming that internal compliance staff had identified nearly $1 billion in transactions connected to Iranian actors between March 2024 and August 2025. According to the report, the activity involved Tether (USDT) operating on the Tron blockchain, and several investigators were allegedly dismissed after raising concerns.
Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, publicly pushed back against the claims. He said an internal review - conducted with the support of external legal counsel - found no evidence of sanctions breaches tied to the flagged transactions. Teng also denied that any employees were terminated in retaliation, stating that staff departures were based on legitimate internal decisions and emphasizing that Binance maintains whistleblower protections.
https://twitter.com/_RichardTeng/status/2023236909263413424
The exchange has formally requested corrections to the reporting.
Allegations Surface During Ongoing U.S. Monitorship
The timing of the accusations adds another layer of sensitivity. Binance is currently operating under a government-imposed monitorship following its $4.3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities in 2023 over prior compliance failures. That agreement placed the company under heightened regulatory supervision.
The transactions in question reportedly occurred over a 17-month window and centered on USDT transfers via the Tron network. While Binance disputes wrongdoing, the broader regulatory environment has grown increasingly hostile toward platforms accused of facilitating Iran-related activity.
Washington Targets Entire Exchanges, Not Just Wallets
In early 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury - through its Office of Foreign Assets Control - shifted its strategy. Instead of focusing mainly on individual crypto wallets, authorities began blacklisting entire exchanges accused of enabling sanctioned entities.
January saw a landmark move against UK-registered exchanges Zedcex and Zedxion, which were sanctioned for allegedly processing transactions tied to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. One of the platforms reportedly handled more than $94 billion in transactions since 2022. The exchanges were linked to Babak Morteza Zanjani, an Iranian businessman previously convicted of major financial crimes.
Earlier enforcement waves targeted Garantex, which was accused of facilitating ransomware-related flows. When a successor platform, Grinex, emerged, U.S. authorities moved quickly to designate it as well, citing billions in processed transactions. In 2024, Cryptex and PM2BTC were also identified for allegedly servicing cybercriminal networks.
This widening crackdown signaled a strategic pivot: regulators are now going after the infrastructure layer of crypto markets rather than isolated addresses.
Stablecoins Under Intensifying Scrutiny
Stablecoins have become a central focus of enforcement. Reports that Iran’s central bank acquired more than $500 million in USDT to help stabilize the rial have amplified regulatory concerns. Exchanges that facilitate large-scale stablecoin liquidity - including Binance and others - now face closer examination.
Under the direction of President Donald Trump, the Treasury has intensified what it describes as a renewed “maximum economic pressure” campaign. A February 2026 executive order authorized tariffs of up to 25% on countries that continue trading with Iran, underscoring a broader geopolitical strategy that extends beyond digital assets.
A Defining Moment for Crypto Compliance
The clash between Binance and its critics reflects a broader transformation in global crypto oversight. As U.S. authorities escalate sanctions enforcement and target entire exchange ecosystems, major platforms are under pressure to demonstrate airtight compliance controls.
For Binance, already navigating post-settlement supervision, the current allegations arrive at a delicate moment. Whether the dispute results in formal regulatory action or fades after internal reviews and media corrections, it highlights a new reality: in 2026, crypto exchanges are operating squarely within the geopolitical crosshairs.
#Binance

Onchain analyst Willy Woo has raised concerns that markets are beginning to price in a long-term quantum computing risk to Bitcoin, eroding its multi-year outperformance relative to gold.

Key Takeaways
Willy Woo argues that growing awareness of quantum “Q-Day” risk is weakening Bitcoin’s long-term valuation advantage over gold.Approximately 4 million BTC are considered lost, yet remain theoretically vulnerable to future quantum decryption.Markets may be applying a structural discount to Bitcoin as investors reassess cryptographic risk and scarcity assumptions.
According to Woo’s analysis, the prospect of “Q-Day” - the moment sufficiently advanced quantum computers could break current cryptographic standards, has disrupted Bitcoin’s 12-year uptrend in purchasing power when measured in gold ounces. The shift challenges the durability of the “digital gold” thesis and introduces structural uncertainty that could influence institutional allocation decisions over the coming decade.
Broken Trend: Bitcoin’s Purchasing Power Versus Gold
For more than a decade, Bitcoin steadily appreciated relative to gold, reinforcing its narrative as a superior store of value in digital form. Woo points to a structural break in that long-term trend, with Bitcoin’s valuation versus gold slipping amid rising discussion of quantum vulnerability.
https://twitter.com/willywoo/status/2023258903853834730
The market reaction is visible in recent performance: Bitcoin trades significantly below its all-time highs, while gold has regained favor among certain institutional allocators. Some strategists have reportedly rotated portions of portfolios from Bitcoin into gold, particularly for conservative mandates such as pension allocations.
The 4 Million BTC Question
Central to Woo’s thesis is the estimated 4 million BTC roughly 25–30% of total supply believed to be permanently lost due to inaccessible private keys. Although presumed immobile, many of these coins have exposed public keys onchain. In a scenario where quantum computers can efficiently run algorithms capable of deriving private keys from public keys, these coins could theoretically be recovered and reintroduced into circulation.
Such an event would materially alter Bitcoin’s scarcity profile. Woo characterizes the potential reactivation of lost coins as equivalent to years of institutional accumulation entering the market unexpectedly. Even if unlikely in the near term, the theoretical overhang may weigh on long-term valuation models.
Market Pricing and Governance Uncertainty
Woo estimates a minority probability of a hard fork scenario aimed at freezing vulnerable coins to preserve immutability principles, with the majority likelihood that Bitcoin’s governance remains unchanged. The mere existence of such debates introduces additional complexity to the asset’s risk framework.
While no imminent collapse is implied, the structural discount if sustained, could persist for years as markets weigh cryptographic resilience against physical asset security.
The AI–Quantum Nexus
The quantum risk debate intersects with accelerating advances in artificial intelligence. AI systems are increasingly used to optimize quantum algorithms, improve error correction, and reduce the computational requirements for breaking elliptic curve cryptography, the foundation of Bitcoin’s digital signatures.
Industry disclosures have acknowledged this risk. Major asset managers have referenced quantum computing as a material long-term threat to digital asset security in regulatory filings. While experts debate precise timelines, projections for practical quantum breakthroughs have shortened in some models, narrowing the perceived window for mitigation.
At the same time, AI is reshaping the energy landscape that underpins Bitcoin’s security. Global Bitcoin mining consumes an estimated 150–200 terawatt-hours annually, comparable to gold mining’s energy footprint. As hyperscale AI data centers expand, particularly in the United States electricity demand is rising sharply. Some mining operators are pivoting toward AI and high-performance computing workloads, generating materially higher revenue per megawatt than traditional mining operations.
This dual dynamic positions AI as both an accelerator of cryptographic risk and a catalyst for infrastructure evolution within Bitcoin’s ecosystem.
Gold’s Relative Stability in a Technological Era
Unlike digital assets, gold faces no cryptographic vulnerabilities. Its scarcity is governed by geology rather than code, and technological progress does not threaten its core security assumptions. In periods of heightened technological uncertainty, gold’s physical nature can appear comparatively insulated.
While AI also enhances exploration and extraction efficiency in gold mining, these advances do not undermine the metal’s fundamental store-of-value properties. The contrast highlights why some investors may favor gold amid emerging digital security concerns.
Pathways to Mitigation
Bitcoin developers have long acknowledged the need for eventual migration to post-quantum cryptographic standards. Potential solutions include new address formats, upgraded signature schemes, and phased transitions designed to preserve backward compatibility and minimize governance fragmentation.
Such adaptations would likely unfold over multiple years, reducing immediate systemic risk. Analysts note that even if vulnerable coins became technically recoverable, market behavior particularly among large holders would determine real-world impact.
Structural Discount or Temporary Repricing?
Woo’s analysis frames quantum risk not as an imminent crisis but as a structural variable increasingly embedded in valuation models. The shift challenges Bitcoin’s positioning relative to gold and introduces a technological dimension absent in traditional stores of value.
Whether markets continue to apply a long-term discount will depend on the pace of quantum development, progress toward post-quantum upgrades, and institutional confidence in Bitcoin’s adaptability. For now, the evolving debate underscores how emerging technologies can reshape asset narratives, even for systems built on cryptographic permanence.
#quantumcomputers #BTC