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The U.S. National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) has issued its first proposed rules under the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act, outlining a federal licensing pathway for payment stablecoin issuers affiliated with federally insured credit unions.

Key Takeaways
NCUA proposes a new Permitted Payment Stablecoin Issuer (PPSI) license for subsidiaries of federally insured credit unions.Credit unions would be prohibited from issuing stablecoins directly or engaging with unlicensed issuers.The framework introduces a federal supervisory pathway aligned with the GENIUS Act’s implementation timeline.
The move marks a structural step in the post-GENIUS Act regulatory rollout, signaling how U.S. authorities intend to integrate stablecoin issuance into the federally supervised financial system without allowing direct balance-sheet exposure for insured credit unions.
Licensing Structure for Credit Union-Affiliated Stablecoin Activity
Under the proposal, subsidiaries of federally insured credit unions (FICUs) would be required to obtain designation as an NCUA Permitted Payment Stablecoin Issuer (PPSI) before issuing payment stablecoins. Direct issuance by the credit unions themselves would not be permitted. Instead, issuance activity would need to occur through separately supervised entities, such as credit union service organizations or comparable subsidiaries.
The proposal also restricts capital relationships: federally insured credit unions would be barred from investing in or extending credit to any payment stablecoin issuer that does not hold the required PPSI license. This effectively creates a closed supervisory perimeter in which only NCUA-approved entities can interact with insured institutions in stablecoin-related activities.
Application Standards and Supervisory Timelines
Subsidiaries seeking PPSI status would need to demonstrate financial soundness, appropriate governance structures, and viable business models. The agency indicates that applications must receive action within 120 days, with automatic approval triggered if no decision is issued within that window.
The draft framework emphasizes technological neutrality. Applications cannot be denied solely because a stablecoin is deployed on an open, public, or decentralized blockchain network, reflecting an effort to separate network architecture from supervisory eligibility.
A 60-day public comment period will begin following publication in the Federal Register, with comments expected to close around mid-April 2026. The GENIUS Act mandates full regulatory implementation by July 18, 2026, placing this proposal within a defined legislative timeline.
Balance-Sheet Separation and Risk Containment
The structure reinforces a policy objective of isolating stablecoin issuance risk from the insured balance sheets of credit unions. By requiring activity to occur through licensed subsidiaries, the NCUA preserves a firewall between federally backed deposits and digital asset issuance operations.
Federally insured credit unions collectively serve approximately 144 million members and manage about $2.38 trillion in assets, according to mid-2025 figures. More than 4,000 institutions fall under NCUA supervision. Bringing stablecoin-linked subsidiaries into a licensing regime therefore represents a measurable expansion of federal oversight into a segment that intersects with both retail financial services and digital asset infrastructure.
Next Phase of GENIUS Act Implementation
The NCUA indicated that this proposal represents the first stage of rulemaking. A forthcoming regulatory package is expected to address additional GENIUS Act standards, including 1:1 reserve backing requirements with U.S. currency or highly liquid assets, capital and liquidity thresholds, anti–illicit finance controls, information technology risk management, redemption procedures, and monthly reserve disclosure obligations.
While Bitcoin and other digital assets remain reference points for broader market risk appetite, stablecoins increasingly function as settlement infrastructure within the crypto ecosystem. The proposed framework suggests that U.S. policymakers are moving toward formalizing issuance standards for institutions connected to the traditional financial system rather than leaving participation to loosely defined structures.
The rulemaking signals a shift toward federally supervised participation in stablecoin markets by credit union-affiliated entities, while maintaining structural safeguards around insured institutions. As implementation progresses toward the GENIUS Act’s statutory deadline, licensing standards and supervisory mechanics are likely to shape how traditional financial cooperatives interface with digital payment tokens.
#stablecoin

Bitcoin’s mining difficulty has recorded a steep -11.16% adjustment, marking the largest downward move since the July 2021 crash triggered by China’s mining ban.

Key Takeaways
Bitcoin mining difficulty dropped 11.16%, the biggest decline since 2021 and one of the largest in history.Storm outages and a market sell-off temporarily reduced hashrate, but network power has already rebounded sharply.Miner profitability hit record lows, accelerating the shift toward AI infrastructure and alternative revenue streams.
The drop ranks as the 10th biggest negative adjustment in the network’s history and signals how quickly external shocks can ripple through the system.
The February 7, 2026 adjustment followed a sudden decline in network hashrate. Severe winter storms across parts of the United States forced multiple mining facilities offline, while a broader market sell-off pushed Bitcoin’s price into the low $60,000 range. Together, these pressures reduced overall computational power securing the network, prompting the automatic difficulty recalibration.
Hashrate Rebounds Despite Profitability Squeeze
Despite the sharp correction, network data shows that hashrate has already rebounded by roughly 20% over the past two weeks. As storm-affected miners restore operations, computing power is steadily returning to the network.
However, profitability remains under pressure. Hashprice - a key metric measuring miner revenue per terahash - plunged to a record low near $0.03 per TH/s on February 5. For comparison, that figure stood near $3.50 in 2017, highlighting how competitive and capital-intensive the mining industry has become.
With hashrate climbing again, the next difficulty adjustment, expected around February 20, is projected to swing in the opposite direction, with estimates pointing to a positive correction of roughly 11.5%.

Mining Firms Pivot Toward AI Infrastructure
Volatile revenues are accelerating strategic shifts among large mining operators. Companies such as CleanSpark and TeraWulf are increasingly converting or expanding data center infrastructure to support Artificial Intelligence workloads. The strategy aims to create diversified revenue streams that are less exposed to Bitcoin price cycles.
Corporate restructuring and capital raises are also shaping the sector. Cango Inc. recently secured $75.5 million in equity funding to expand its integrated energy and AI compute platform, while Argo Blockchain received court approval for a restructuring plan addressing $40 million in unsecured notes.
Local Restrictions and Global Clarity
Regulatory developments continue to influence the mining landscape. Canton, North Carolina, passed a 12-month moratorium on new cryptocurrency mining and data center developments on February 11, reflecting growing scrutiny at the municipal level.
In contrast, the Abu Dhabi Global Market issued updated guidance formalizing the licensing and supervision of crypto mining as a recognized commercial activity. The move provides greater regulatory clarity for operators seeking to establish operations in the region.
The latest difficulty adjustment underscores how sensitive Bitcoin’s mining ecosystem remains to weather events, market volatility, and regulatory shifts. Yet the swift hashrate rebound also highlights the network’s resilience, with miners adapting rapidly to changing conditions while exploring new revenue models beyond traditional block rewards.
#Bitcoinmining

Standard Chartered has lowered its year-end 2026 Bitcoin forecast to $100,000, marking the second downgrade in just three months.

Key Takeaways
Standard Chartered cut its 2026 Bitcoin target to $100,000 again.Bank warns BTC could drop toward $50,000 in a capitulation phase.ETF outflows and weaker corporate buying are key concerns.Ethereum target lowered to $4,000; $500,000 BTC call delayed to 2030.
The bank had previously projected $150,000 and, before that, an ambitious $300,000 target for the same period.
In a February 12 note, Geoffrey Kendrick, the bank’s global head of digital assets research, outlined a more cautious path ahead for crypto markets, pointing to weakening momentum and growing macro pressure.
Capitulation Risk and ETF Pressure
According to the bank, Bitcoin could face what it describes as a “final capitulation period” in the coming months. In that scenario, BTC may slide toward $50,000 - or slightly below - before establishing a durable bottom.
A key concern is persistent ETF outflows. Since peaking in October 2025, Bitcoin ETF holdings have reportedly dropped by nearly 100,000 coins. With the average ETF entry price near $90,000, many investors are currently underwater. That dynamic increases the likelihood of selling pressure rather than aggressive dip-buying.
The bank also argues that the phase of strong corporate accumulation - previously led by firms such as MicroStrategy - has largely run its course. If corporate demand cools, future upside may depend almost entirely on renewed ETF inflows.
Macro Headwinds Add to Uncertainty
Standard Chartered cites unsupportive U.S. economic data and a hawkish Federal Reserve stance as additional drags on digital assets. With rate cuts still uncertain and liquidity conditions tight, the bank sees limited catalysts in the near term.
Meaningful relief, it suggests, may not emerge until a shift in Fed leadership or policy direction, potentially around mid-year.
Ethereum Target Also Slashed
The bank also revised its Ethereum outlook. The year-end 2026 forecast for ETH has been cut to $4,000 from a previous $7,500 projection. In the short term, Ethereum could fall toward $1,400 before stabilizing, according to the note.
Despite the downward revisions, Standard Chartered maintains a constructive long-term view. However, its previously outlined $500,000 Bitcoin target has now been pushed back from 2028 to 2030, signaling a slower trajectory for the broader crypto cycle.
How Other Institutions See 2026
While Standard Chartered has turned more cautious, other major firms remain more optimistic.
Bernstein continues to project Bitcoin reaching $150,000 in 2026. Maple Finance sees a potential move toward $175,000. Meanwhile, Fundstrat, led by Tom Lee, has outlined a range between $200,000 and $250,000.
On the more cautious end, some analysts estimate a potential floor around $75,000.
The widening gap in projections highlights just how uncertain the road to 2026 remains. For now, the debate centers on whether current weakness marks the final shakeout before recovery - or the start of a longer consolidation phase for digital assets.
#BTC

The American Bankers Association (ABA), the largest banking lobby in the country, has formally urged the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to slow down or pause the approval of national trust bank charters for crypto and stablecoin companies.

Key Takeaways
The American Bankers Association wants the OCC to slow crypto trust bank approvals.Banks cite regulatory uncertainty and financial stability risks.Recent OCC approvals for major crypto firms triggered the backlash.The crypto sector calls the effort protectionist.
In a February 11 comment letter, the group called for a more cautious approach as regulators reshape the digital asset landscape. The move signals growing tension between traditional banks and crypto-native firms seeking deeper integration into the federal banking framework.
Regulatory Concerns Take Center Stage
At the heart of the ABA’s argument is regulatory uncertainty. The group says the OCC should wait until federal agencies fully define the framework under the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins Act, also known as the GENIUS Act. According to the ABA, moving forward with charter approvals before the rules are finalized could create inconsistencies and long-term supervisory risks.
The banking lobby also raised concerns about safety and soundness. It warned that many crypto-focused business models lack traditional fiduciary activities and may face heightened insolvency and cybersecurity risks. From the ABA’s perspective, granting national trust charters to such firms without the same capital and compliance standards applied to full-service banks could expose the system to vulnerabilities.
Another flashpoint is branding. The ABA recommended prohibiting non-bank charter applicants from using the word “bank” in their names, arguing that it could mislead consumers into believing these entities operate under the same regulatory structure as traditional institutions.
A Question of Fair Competition
Banking groups, including the Bank Policy Institute, have repeatedly argued that limited-purpose charters allow crypto firms to access federal oversight and credibility without shouldering the full regulatory burden imposed on conventional banks. In their view, this creates an uneven playing field.
The OCC’s recent actions help explain the urgency behind the ABA’s letter. In December 2025, the regulator granted conditional national trust bank approvals to several major digital asset firms, including Ripple, BitGo, Paxos, Circle, and Fidelity Digital Assets.
In addition, recent OCC interpretive letters clarified that national banks may conduct so-called riskless principal crypto transactions and hold small amounts of digital assets to cover blockchain gas fees. In January 2026, the agency issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to clarify that national trust banks can engage in activities incidental to banking - a proposal that directly triggered the ABA’s latest response.
Crypto Industry Pushes Back
The crypto sector has not remained silent. The Blockchain Association has described the banking lobby’s efforts as protectionist, arguing that established financial institutions are attempting to preserve dominance over financial services while slowing innovation.
For crypto firms, national trust charters represent legitimacy, direct access to federal oversight, and a clearer pathway to offering regulated digital asset services. For traditional banks, they represent competitive pressure and regulatory asymmetry.
As federal agencies continue shaping stablecoin and digital asset rules, the outcome of this dispute could determine how deeply crypto becomes embedded within the US banking system - and who ultimately controls that future.
#CryptoBankingRevolution

Midnight is entering a decisive phase as its mainnet launch approaches, marking the transition from early testing to a live production environment focused on privacy and selective disclosure.

Key Takeaways
Midnight is preparing for full mainnet activation focused on privacy and selective disclosure.Over 1.3 billion NIGHT tokens have already been claimed.
The network, built within the Cardano ecosystem, is designed to support real-world use cases that require data protection while still enabling compliance and controlled transparency.

Mainnet activation represents more than a technical milestone. It signals the beginning of a stable infrastructure layer where developers can deploy applications, experiment with tooling, and expand protocol capabilities. As the network moves toward full operational status, attention is shifting from speculation to long-term utility and ecosystem growth.
Airdrop Activity Supports Early Network Distribution
While the mainnet rollout remains the primary focus, the NIGHT token distribution has played a supporting role in broadening participation. Shortly after launch, the project distributed tokens to more than 11,000 wallets, helping seed early engagement ahead of full network activation.
According to Charles Hoskinson, more than 1.3 billion NIGHT tokens - roughly 5.5% of total supply - were claimed within the first weeks. That level of activity suggests meaningful community interest as Midnight prepares to operate as a live, privacy-focused blockchain.
Technical and Exchange Challenges
The airdrop process was not without friction. Users relying on hardware wallets from Ledger and Trezor reported message-signing and compatibility issues, slowing down claims for some participants.
At the same time, major centralized exchanges such as Binance and Nexo did not support the distribution. Holders who kept their ADA on those platforms were unable to participate directly, contributing to community frustration during the early phase.
Market Reaction and Long-Term Focus
When the redemption window opened in December 2025, NIGHT experienced immediate volatility, falling from around $0.09 to $0.07 in its first trading session. By February 2026, the token was trading near $0.059, reflecting a cooling period after initial listing momentum.
However, analysts argue that short-term price swings may be less relevant as the network transitions to full mainnet functionality. NIGHT’s core utility lies in securing the Midnight blockchain and generating DUST, the resource required for transaction fees within the privacy-focused ecosystem.
With the redemption period remaining open until December 4, 2026, token distribution continues in parallel with the mainnet rollout. The coming months will likely determine whether Midnight can convert early interest into sustained adoption as a live privacy infrastructure layer within the broader Cardano landscape.
#Mainnet

Crypto ETF flows reversed sharply on February 11, with institutional capital rotating out of Bitcoin and Ethereum products while activity in Solana and XRP funds stalled.

Key takeaways:
Bitcoin ETFs recorded $276.3 million in net outflows.Ethereum ETFs saw $129.1 million in redemptions.Solana ETFs posted $0 in net flows.XRP spot ETFs also recorded $0 in net flows.
The shift comes just one day after a rebound session, highlighting how quickly sentiment can turn in the current market environment.
Outflows were broad-based across major issuers, signaling institutional repositioning rather than isolated events.
Bitcoin ETFs
Bitcoin spot ETFs saw $276.3 million in total net outflows on February 11, reversing the $166.5 million inflow recorded the previous session.
The redemptions were distributed across leading products. BlackRock’s IBIT posted -$73.4 million, Fidelity’s FBTC declined by -$92.6 million, ARK’s ARKB lost -$70.5 million, and Bitwise’s BITB recorded -$22.0 million. Grayscale’s GBTC also saw -$17.9 million in outflows.
The widespread nature of the withdrawals suggests a broader institutional pullback rather than pressure on a single issuer.
Ethereum ETFs
Ethereum ETFs extended the weakness, recording $129.1 million in net outflows.
Fidelity’s FETH led redemptions with -$67.1 million, while BlackRock’s ETHA saw -$29.4 million exit. Bitwise’s ETHW recorded -$16.7 million, and Grayscale’s ETHE lost -$11.5 million.
The synchronized declines across multiple Ethereum funds point to cautious positioning toward ETH exposure amid ongoing market volatility.
Solana ETFs
Solana ETF flows remained unchanged on February 11, posting $0 in net flows.
After registering $8.4 million in inflows the day before, activity across BSOL, VSOL, FSOL, TSOL, SOEZ and GSOL paused. The lack of movement suggests investors are neither aggressively accumulating nor exiting Solana exposure at this stage.
XRP Spot ETFs
XRP spot ETFs also recorded $0 in net flows according to the latest update.
Products including XRPC, XRPZ, TOXR, Bitwise XRP ETF and GXRP showed no capital movement. The flat reading indicates a wait-and-see approach from institutional participants in XRP-linked funds.
Overall, the contrast between heavy Bitcoin and Ethereum outflows and the stability in Solana and XRP products highlights a selective rotation rather than broad market capitulation. Whether this marks the start of a sustained de-risking phase or simply short-term rebalancing will depend on flows in the coming sessions.
#CryptoETF

The XRPL Foundation has named Brett Mollin as its new Executive Director, a move aimed at reinforcing the long-term security, decentralization, and operational stability of the XRP Ledger.

Key Takeaways
Brett Mollin has been appointed Executive Director of the XRPL Foundation.He brings over 11 years of XRP Ledger ecosystem experience, including prior leadership at Ripple.The focus will be on scalability, resilience, governance, and infrastructure readiness.The move reinforces the Foundation’s nonprofit, community-driven oversight of the XRP Ledger.
Mollin steps into the leadership role with more than a decade of hands-on experience building within the XRPL ecosystem. Over the past 11 years, he has been deeply involved in infrastructure development, validator operations, and broader community engagement across the network.
From Technical Leadership to Network Stewardship
Before joining the Foundation in this new capacity, Mollin served as Technical Director at Ripple, where he worked closely with developers, financial institutions, and ecosystem partners launching products on the XRP Ledger. His role positioned him at the intersection of enterprise adoption and open-source development, helping bridge institutional use cases with community-driven innovation.
Beyond his corporate background, Mollin has built longstanding relationships with validators, core developers, and infrastructure contributors. His continued engagement across technical and governance discussions has earned him credibility within the XRPL community, making his appointment a natural progression rather than an abrupt leadership change.
Focus on Resilience and Scalability
According to Mollin, the XRP Ledger has reached a pivotal phase in its evolution, where long-term stewardship is becoming increasingly important. His mandate will center on ensuring the network remains scalable, resilient, and well-governed as transaction volumes and institutional participation grow.
Key priorities include enhancing operational readiness, encouraging audit-ready infrastructure practices, and collaborating on initiatives that prepare the ledger for potential spikes in transaction demand. Expanding participation from developers, node operators, and ecosystem builders is also expected to play a central role in the Foundation’s strategy.
Nonprofit Governance Model
The XRPL Foundation operates under a nonprofit governance structure, with its Board of Directors overseeing strategic direction and executive appointments in line with the organization’s bylaws. As Executive Director, Mollin will manage day-to-day operations while supporting the broader mission of maintaining decentralization and long-term network health.
The Foundation reiterated its commitment to transparency, emphasizing that governance updates, leadership decisions, and operational information will remain accessible to the community.
With this leadership transition, the XRPL Foundation signals a continued emphasis on building a secure, community-driven blockchain infrastructure designed to support developers, institutions, and ecosystem participants for years to come.
#XRPL

Ethereum is sending a powerful signal beneath the surface. While price action remains under pressure and ETH trades below the $2,000 mark, staking activity is accelerating at a pace rarely seen before.

Key Takeaways
30% of Ethereum’s supply is locked in staking, tightening liquid supply.4.1M ETH is waiting to be staked, while exits remain minimal.Yield is modest at 2.83% APR, yet demand keeps rising.Large wallets are reducing share, smaller holders are accumulating.One more dip may come before a potential rebound.
Roughly 30% of Ethereum’s total supply - about 36.8 million ETH worth approximately $72 billion at current prices - is now locked in staking contracts. Nearly one million validators are actively securing the network, reinforcing Ethereum’s transition into a yield-generating, security-focused asset.
This dynamic is creating a significant supply restriction at a time when market sentiment remains cautious.
Queue Explodes as Investors Lock Up ETH
The most striking data point is the staking queue. Around 4.1 million ETH is currently waiting to be staked, highlighting record demand to enter validator positions. Meanwhile, exit activity is minimal by comparison, with just 75,872 ETH queued for withdrawal.

About one-third of staked ETH is now considered illiquid, earning a modest 2.83% APR. By traditional crypto standards, that yield is not particularly attractive. Yet investors continue to lock up capital aggressively.
This behavior stands in contrast to short-term yield farming strategies. Instead, it signals long-term conviction. Locking up tens of billions of dollars during a price downturn suggests participants are positioning for future appreciation rather than chasing quick returns.
On-Chain Shifts: Whales Reduce, Smaller Wallets Accumulate
Fresh data from Santiment shows a structural shift in Ethereum’s holder distribution. Wallets holding at least 1,000 ETH now control less than 75% of total supply for the first time in seven months, after shedding roughly 1.5% of supply since Christmas.
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At the same time, smaller wallets - particularly those holding less than 1 ETH - now control their highest percentage of supply ever, at 2.3%.
This rotation hints that larger holders may be reallocating into staking, while smaller participants steadily accumulate. The result is a broader distribution of supply alongside rising validator participation.
Technical Outlook: One More Dip Before a Bounce?
From a technical perspective, analyst Michaël van de Poppe believes Ethereum’s broader structure remains intact. He suggests another move lower toward higher timeframe support could occur before a stronger rebound.

According to his view, that support zone may provide the foundation for a higher low and a renewed uptrend. He still expects this month to mark the bottom for the broader market, followed by a rally lasting two to three months.
If that scenario plays out, Ethereum’s tightening liquid supply could amplify any upside move.
Supply Restriction Meets Macro Sensitivity
Crypto markets are no longer moving in isolation. Ethereum, like Bitcoin, increasingly trades as a high-beta risk asset tied to macroeconomic conditions. Inflation data, labor market trends, and broader liquidity flows remain key drivers.
However, beneath the volatility, Ethereum’s fundamentals appear to be strengthening. With billions of dollars locked, minimal exits, and staking demand at record levels, the network is quietly reducing available supply while expanding validator security.
When investors line up to lock $74 billion during a price dip, it rarely reflects speculation alone. It suggests belief in what comes next.
#ETH

While much of the crypto market has struggled with volatility and declining prices, one segment continues to expand at an extraordinary pace - stablecoins.

Key Takeaways
Annual stablecoin transaction volume reached roughly $33 trillion in 2025Scale now rivals or exceeds Visa and Mastercard combinedGrowth continues despite weaker speculative crypto activityRising transaction sizes indicate institutional and operational adoptionTether’s market cap nears Ethereum’s, signaling shifting capital dynamics
New data shows that annual onchain stablecoin transaction volume reached approximately $33 trillion in 2025, placing the sector at or even above the scale of global payment giants like Visa and Mastercard.
The milestone highlights a growing divergence within digital assets. Speculative trading activity in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum has cooled, but stablecoin usage continues to accelerate, driven by real-world financial applications rather than market hype.
Stablecoins Reach Payment Network Scale
Transaction data indicates that stablecoins are now operating at a scale comparable to traditional payment rails. The $33 trillion annual figure underscores how deeply integrated dollar-pegged tokens have become in global finance.
Unlike previous cycles dominated by leverage and speculation, this expansion appears to be fueled by practical use cases. Stablecoins are increasingly used for cross-border payments, institutional settlements, treasury management, brokerage funding, and onchain liquidity provisioning.

The steady rise in transaction volumes also comes alongside increasing average transaction sizes. That trend suggests not just retail activity, but growing institutional participation and operational adoption.
Cooling Prices, Expanding Utility
Recent market data shows that Bitcoin is trading near $67,000, Ethereum around $1,950, and broader crypto indices remain under pressure on a weekly basis. Yet stablecoin market capitalization remains elevated, with Tether’s USDT alone holding roughly $184 billion in market value.
Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Mike McGlone recently argued that Tether is on track to surpass Ethereum in market capitalization, pointing to the structural strength of stablecoin demand even as Ether struggles below key technical levels.

The contrast is becoming clearer: while Bitcoin and Ethereum behave as risk-on assets sensitive to macroeconomic shifts, stablecoins are increasingly functioning as digital dollars embedded in global payment flows.
A Structural Shift in Crypto
The rise of stablecoins reflects a broader transformation within the digital asset ecosystem. Crypto is no longer moving independently from traditional markets and is increasingly treated as a high-beta risk asset. However, stablecoins are carving out a separate narrative - one tied to efficiency, settlement speed, and financial infrastructure.
Importantly, stablecoin growth has continued even as speculative activity cooled in 2025. This suggests the foundation of the sector may be strengthening beneath the surface, independent of price momentum in major tokens.
If current trends persist, stablecoins could become one of the most important pillars of digital finance - operating quietly in the background while headlines remain focused on Bitcoin’s volatility and Ethereum’s price swings.
#Stablecoins

Binance has completed the final phase of its SAFU fund asset conversion, officially transitioning its stablecoin reserves into Bitcoin.

Key takeaways:
Binance purchased 4,545 BTC in the final tranche.The full $1 billion SAFU reserve has now been converted into Bitcoin.SAFU holds 15,000 BTC worth approximately $1,005,000,000 at completion.The valuation was calculated at a BTC price of $67,000.
The exchange confirmed it purchased an additional 4,545 BTC, finalizing the previously announced $1 billion allocation into the leading digital asset.

SAFU Fund Now Fully in Bitcoin
The transition was completed within 30 days of the initial announcement, according to Binance. With the final tranche executed, the Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU) now holds 15,000 BTC.
At the time of completion, the total value stood at approximately $1.005 billion, based on a Bitcoin price of $67,000. Binance also publicly disclosed the SAFU Bitcoin address and the latest transaction ID, reinforcing its commitment to onchain transparency.
Strategic Reserve Shift
SAFU was originally created as an emergency insurance fund to protect users in extreme scenarios. By converting the reserves entirely into Bitcoin, Binance is effectively signaling strong conviction in BTC as a long-term store-of-value asset.
The move represents a structural shift from stablecoin-based reserves toward a fully Bitcoin-backed protection model.
Market Implications
Large-scale treasury conversions into Bitcoin often draw attention from institutional investors, as they signal confidence in BTC’s long-term value proposition.
With 15,000 BTC now sitting in the SAFU wallet, Binance holds one of the more visible exchange-controlled Bitcoin reserve pools, potentially reinforcing narratives around Bitcoin as a reserve-grade digital asset.
What Comes Next
Market participants may monitor:
Whether other exchanges adjust reserve compositions.The impact on Bitcoin liquidity and supply dynamics.Broader institutional sentiment toward BTC treasury strategies.
With SAFU now fully allocated to Bitcoin, Binance has positioned its user protection fund around the asset it describes as the premier long-term reserve within the crypto ecosystem.
#Binance

Crypto ETF flows turned positive on February 10, with Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and XRP products all recording net inflows after several volatile sessions.

Key takeaways:
Bitcoin ETFs recorded $166.5 million in net inflows.Ethereum ETFs saw modest $13.8 million inflows.Solana ETFs added $8.4 million.
XRP spot ETFs recorded $3.26 million in net inflows.
The rebound suggests renewed institutional positioning across major digital assets.
Bitcoin ETFs Lead With Strong Rebound
Bitcoin spot ETFs posted $166.5 million in net inflows on February 10.BlackRock’s IBIT added $26.5 million, while Fidelity’s FBTC brought in $56.9 million.
ARK’s ARKB attracted $68.5 million, marking one of the strongest single-day contributions among issuers. Smaller allocations were recorded across Valkyrie, VanEck and other products.
The move follows several sessions of volatility and prior outflows earlier in February, suggesting institutions are stepping back into Bitcoin exposure after recent weakness.
Ethereum ETFs Stabilize
Ethereum ETFs recorded $13.8 million in total net inflows. The majority of flows came from Grayscale’s ETH product, which added $13.3 million. Fidelity’s FETH posted a modest $0.5 million gain, while most other products remained flat on the day.
Compared to Bitcoin, Ethereum’s flows were more subdued, indicating selective positioning rather than aggressive allocation.
Solana ETFs Continue Gradual Accumulation
Solana ETFs saw $8.4 million in net inflows. Bitwise’s BSOL led with $7.7 million, followed by Fidelity’s FSOL at $0.7 million. Other products recorded no significant movement.
While smaller in size compared to Bitcoin flows, Solana’s steady inflows reflect continued investor interest in alternative Layer 1 exposure.
XRP Spot ETFs Record Positive Flows
XRP spot ETFs posted $3.26 million in net inflows. Bitwise’s XRP ETF added $1.10 million, while Grayscale’s GXRP attracted $2.17 million. Other listed products showed no material change.
The positive flows suggest that investor appetite for diversified crypto exposure remains intact across multiple assets.
What to Watch Next
The synchronized inflows across Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana and XRP ETFs may indicate improving institutional confidence following recent market turbulence.
Sustained multi-day inflows would strengthen the case for a broader risk-on rotation in crypto markets. However, given the volatility seen in late January and early February, traders will likely monitor whether this rebound represents the start of a new accumulation phase or a short-term positioning adjustment.
#CryptoETF

Ethereum is reportedly being considered as a potential blockchain infrastructure layer for a future euro stablecoin, signaling a notable shift in how governments evaluate public blockchain networks.

Key takeaways:
Ethereum is being discussed as a candidate blockchain for a euro stablecoin.The discussion reflects growing institutional confidence in public blockchain infrastructure.The shift signals deeper convergence between government finance and decentralized networks.Ethereum’s maturity and ecosystem depth position it as a leading contender.
Rather than questioning whether public chains can function at scale, policymakers appear increasingly focused on identifying which network is robust enough to support sovereign-grade digital assets.
A Major Narrative Shift
The idea that Ethereum could serve as infrastructure for a euro-denominated stablecoin marks a significant evolution in the digital asset landscape. Public blockchains were once viewed with skepticism by regulators and central banks. Now, the conversation appears to be centered on suitability rather than viability.

If adopted, Ethereum would provide an open, battle-tested settlement layer capable of integrating with decentralized finance liquidity, tokenized assets, and global blockchain infrastructure.
Why Ethereum?
Ethereum remains the dominant smart contract platform, supporting the largest ecosystem of decentralized applications, tokenized assets, and stablecoins. Its security model, developer activity, and liquidity depth make it a logical candidate for large-scale tokenization initiatives.
With scaling solutions and Layer 2 networks expanding throughput and lowering costs, Ethereum has evolved into a modular ecosystem capable of supporting institutional-grade applications.
ETH Price
At the time of observation, Ethereum (ETH/USD) traded around $1,949.60, reflecting a modest 0.04% decline on the session. On the one-minute timeframe, price action showed volatility earlier in the session, followed by stabilization in the $1,945 - $1,955 range.

The Relative Strength Index (14) hovered near 53, suggesting neutral momentum with slight bullish bias. Meanwhile, the MACD (12, 26, 9) turned mildly positive, indicating short-term stabilization after earlier downside pressure.
While price has not yet shown a decisive breakout reaction, the broader narrative could strengthen Ethereum’s long-term positioning if further institutional confirmation emerges.
What to Expect
Should discussions around a euro stablecoin on Ethereum gain official backing, it could reinforce Ethereum’s role as foundational infrastructure for tokenized sovereign assets. In the short term, traders may watch for increased volatility and a potential break above the $1,955 - $1,960 resistance zone.
Longer term, continued institutional validation would likely support Ethereum’s structural demand profile, particularly if governments move from exploration to implementation.
#Ethereum

Franklin Templeton and Binance have launched a new institutional off-exchange collateral program, allowing eligible clients to use tokenized money market fund shares as trading collateral.

Key takeaways:
Institutions can now use tokenized money market fund shares as collateral on Binance.Assets remain in regulated third-party custody off-exchange.Collateral value is mirrored within Binance’s trading system via Ceffu.The program improves capital efficiency while reducing counterparty risk.
The initiative enables institutions to deploy yield-bearing traditional assets in digital markets without transferring custody to an exchange.
How the Program Works
Under the new structure, tokenized money market fund shares are issued through Franklin Templeton’s Benji Technology Platform. Eligible institutional clients can pledge these tokenized shares as off-exchange collateral when trading on Binance.
Rather than transferring assets directly onto the exchange, the underlying fund shares remain securely held in third-party custody. Their value is mirrored inside Binance’s trading environment using infrastructure provided by Ceffu, Binance’s institutional custody partner. This setup allows institutions to maintain regulatory protections and custody safeguards while actively deploying capital in digital markets.
Improving Capital Efficiency
The program addresses a longstanding institutional challenge: the need to post collateral on exchanges while minimizing custody and counterparty risk. By allowing regulated, yield-bearing money market fund assets to serve as collateral, institutions can continue earning yield while supporting trading activity.
This structure reduces the trade-off between security and efficiency. Participants no longer need to park large pools of capital directly on an exchange to gain exposure, helping optimize liquidity management and operational risk frameworks.
TradFi and Digital Assets Move Closer
The launch builds on Franklin Templeton and Binance’s strategic collaboration announced in 2025. Both firms framed the initiative as part of a broader effort to bridge traditional financial infrastructure with blockchain-based markets.
Roger Bayston, Head of Digital Assets at Franklin Templeton, emphasized that the off-exchange collateral program allows clients to put assets to work while maintaining third-party custody protections. Catherine Chen, Head of VIP and Institutional at Binance, highlighted that integrating tokenized real-world assets into trading infrastructure represents a natural step toward merging traditional and digital finance.
Ceffu’s leadership also noted that institutions increasingly require trading models that prioritize strong risk management without sacrificing capital efficiency - especially in markets operating on a 24/7 settlement cycle.
A Broader Institutional Trend
Demand for stable, yield-bearing collateral continues to rise as institutions deepen participation in digital markets. Tokenized money market funds offer a familiar, regulated product structure adapted for blockchain-enabled trading environments.
By enabling traditional financial instruments to function within crypto trading infrastructure, the program signals continued maturation of digital asset markets. It also reinforces the growing role of tokenization in reshaping how capital is deployed, secured, and settled across global markets.
As institutional adoption accelerates, infrastructure solutions that combine regulatory alignment, custody safeguards, and operational efficiency are likely to define the next phase of digital finance integration.
#FranklinTempleton #binance #TOKENIZED

Robinhood has officially launched the public testnet for Robinhood Chain and announced a strategic partnership with Chainlink, which will serve as the oracle platform for the network.

Key takeaways:
Robinhood Chain public testnet is now live for developers.Chainlink will power the network as the official oracle provider.The Layer 2 is built on Arbitrum technology.Mainnet launch is planned for later this year.
The initiative marks a significant step in Robinhood’s broader strategy to bring financial services onchain through a purpose-built Ethereum Layer 2 designed for real-world asset tokenization.
Chainlink Becomes Oracle Partner
According to the announcement shared by Chainlink, the network will provide its data infrastructure, interoperability solutions, and compliance standards to power advanced tokenization use cases on Robinhood Chain.

By integrating Chainlink as the oracle layer, Robinhood aims to ensure secure, reliable, and tamper-resistant data feeds - critical for financial applications that rely on accurate real-world information.
By integrating Chainlink as the oracle layer, Robinhood aims to ensure secure, reliable, and tamper-resistant data feeds - critical for financial applications that rely on accurate real-world information.
This integration places Chainlink at the core of Robinhood Chain’s infrastructure stack and strengthens the network’s institutional-grade positioning.
try points to the testnetOfficial developer documentationCompatibility with standard Ethereum development tools via ArbitrumEarly infrastructure support from Alchemy, Allium, Chainlink, LayerZero, and TRM
The goal of this stage is to support experimentation, identify potential vulnerabilities, improve stability, and expand ecosystem integrations.
Built for Tokenized Real-World Assets
Robinhood Chain is designed with reliability, scalability, security, and compliance in mind. Backed by Robinhood’s operational infrastructure and built using Arbitrum’s technology stack, the Layer 2 aims to bridge traditional finance with decentralized systems.
The network supports seamless asset bridging, self-custody functionality, and customizable architecture for financial-grade decentralized applications. Planned use cases include tokenized asset platforms, lending protocols, and perpetual futures exchanges.
Johann Kerbrat, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crypto and International at Robinhood, stated that the testnet lays the groundwork for an ecosystem focused on tokenized real-world assets while allowing developers to access decentralized finance liquidity within Ethereum.
Steven Goldfeder, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Offchain Labs, emphasized that Arbitrum’s developer-friendly framework positions Robinhood Chain to help deliver the next phase of tokenization and permissionless financial services.
What Comes Next
In the coming months, developers building on Robinhood Chain will gain access to testnet-only assets, including Stock Tokens for integration testing. Direct testing through Robinhood Wallet will also be introduced, alongside a familiar development environment within the Ethereum and Arbitrum ecosystems.
With infrastructure providers already integrating and additional partners expected to join, Robinhood is moving toward a broader ecosystem rollout ahead of its anticipated mainnet launch later this year.
#Robinhood:

Bitcoin is trading around $66,920 after a sharp intraday selloff that pushed price down from the $69,000 area toward $66,700 before a modest bounce.

Key Takeaways:
Bitcoin dropped from ~$69,000 to the $66,700 zone before stabilizingMarket sentiment remains in extreme fearEthereum and Solana are also trending lowerShort-term structure favors bears unless key resistance is reclaimed
The broader crypto market remains under pressure, with total market capitalization declining and sentiment sitting in extreme fear territory. Altcoins are following Bitcoin lower, reinforcing the risk-off tone across the market.
Bitcoin Faces Short-Term Bearish Structure
On the chart, BTC continues to print lower highs and lower lows, confirming a short-term downtrend. The breakdown below $68,000 accelerated selling pressure, with a spike in volume suggesting stop-loss cascades and short-term liquidations.

The Relative Strength Index is hovering in the low 40s, showing weak momentum but not yet deeply oversold conditions. The MACD remains below the zero line, indicating that bearish momentum is still dominant despite the small bounce.
Immediate support sits around $66,500. A break below that level could expose $65,800 and potentially the $64,500 region. On the upside, Bitcoin needs to reclaim $68,000 first, followed by $69,000, to invalidate the current short-term bearish structure.
Ethereum and Solana Under Pressure
Ethereum is trading near $1,955, down over the past 24 hours and showing similar technical weakness. ETH has struggled to hold above the psychological $2,000 level, and momentum indicators mirror Bitcoin’s soft structure. A loss of $1,900 could accelerate downside pressure, while bulls would need to reclaim $2,020–$2,050 to regain short-term control.
Solana is currently trading around $81.29, continuing its recent pullback. The asset has seen sharper percentage declines compared to Bitcoin, reflecting higher volatility typical for large-cap altcoins. Key support sits near $78, while resistance is building around $85. Failure to hold support could lead to an extended correction phase.
What to Expect Next
For now, the overall structure favors caution. Bitcoin remains the market driver, and until it stabilizes above key resistance levels, Ethereum and Solana are likely to follow its direction.
A strong bounce with increasing volume could trigger short-term relief rallies across majors. However, if Bitcoin breaks below $66,500, broader downside continuation becomes more likely.
Traders should watch volume, reclaim levels, and sentiment shifts closely - because in a market driven by fear, volatility can expand quickly in either direction.
#bitcoin #ethereum

The U.S. Department of Justice has sentenced Daren Li to 20 years in prison for laundering funds linked to a large-scale international cryptocurrency investment scam.

Key Takeaways
A U.S. court sentenced a man named Daren Li for laundering more than $73 million from crypto-related investment scams.The scheme relied on U.S. shell companies and banking access to convert victim funds into cryptocurrency, exposing weaknesses in financial entry points.The case highlights how scam-center operations scale by combining social engineering with institutional financial infrastructure.
How the Laundering Network Operated Across Borders
According to the Department of Justice, Li, a forty-two-year-old dual national of China and St. Kitts and Nevis, played a central role in an international conspiracy that laundered proceeds from cryptocurrency investment scams and related frauds. The operations were run primarily from scam centers located in the Kingdom of Cambodia and targeted victims largely based in the United States.
Victims were approached through unsolicited contacts across social media, messaging platforms, phone calls, and online dating services, where scammers used fabricated personal or professional relationships to establish trust. Once engaged, victims were directed to spoofed websites mimicking legitimate cryptocurrency trading platforms or pressured by impersonated support personnel to transfer funds or cryptocurrency under false pretenses.
These tactics enabled the scheme to collect both fiat and digital assets at scale before proceeds were moved into the laundering pipeline.
Role of Financial Infrastructure in Scaling the Scheme
Prosecutors described Li as directly responsible for handling victim funds once they entered the financial system. He directed co-conspirators to establish U.S.-based bank accounts under shell companies, monitored incoming wire transfers, and coordinated the conversion of those funds into cryptocurrency. This process helped obscure the illicit origin of the proceeds and enabled rapid movement across jurisdictions.
At least $73.6 million in victim funds were deposited into accounts associated with the conspiracy, including at least $59.8 million laundered through U.S. shell companies. The reliance on conventional banking rails before conversion into digital assets highlights how fraud networks often depend on regulated financial access rather than purely on-chain mechanisms.
Enforcement Action and Fugitive Status
Li pleaded guilty on November 12, 2024, to one count of conspiracy to launder funds derived from cryptocurrency scams, but was not present at sentencing. Authorities said he became a fugitive in December 2025 after removing his ankle monitoring device while on pretrial release.
On February 9, 2026, the United States District Court for the Central District of California sentenced Li in absentia to twenty years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, representing the statutory maximum and reflecting the scale of victim harm.
Eight co-conspirators have pleaded guilty in related cases, with Li identified as the first defendant sentenced who was directly involved in receiving and laundering victim funds, distinguishing his role from earlier-stage facilitators.
Broader Context for the Crypto Market
Enforcement actions linked to scam-center activity are increasingly shaping how the crypto market evolves. While such crimes are not unique to digital assets, the use of cryptocurrency as a laundering medium places added pressure on exchanges and fiat on-ramps to maintain stronger monitoring and compliance controls.
Regulators and prosecutors are focusing not only on individual convictions but also on dismantling infrastructure and seizing illicit proceeds, aiming to reduce the economic viability of large-scale fraud. The longer-term significance lies in how institutions adapt access and conversion controls to constrain the pathways through which illicit funds move and scale.
#Cryptoscam

The current market cycle is highlighting structural progress rather than excess risk, according to recent comments by the founder of Chainlink shared on X.

Key Takeaways
This cycle shows a more resilient crypto market, with no major institutional collapses.Real-world assets are moving on-chain regardless of crypto price swings.On-chain markets are increasingly competing with traditional finance.Institutional adoption is being driven by infrastructure and real utility, not speculation.
Instead of another boom-and-bust narrative, this phase appears to be testing whether crypto infrastructure can withstand stress - and so far, it largely has.
Fewer failures point to a maturing industry
As noted by Sergey Nazarov, one of the most important signals this cycle is the absence of large institutional failures. Despite sharp drawdowns and liquidity pressure, there have been no system-wide blowups comparable to the previous cycle, which was marked by collapses such as FTX.
Improved risk management and more robust systems are making crypto a more credible environment for both institutional and retail capital.
Real-world assets move on-chain regardless of prices
Another major takeaway is that real-world asset adoption is increasingly decoupled from crypto prices. Nazarov points out that tokenization and on-chain markets tied to traditional assets continue to expand even when assets like Bitcoin are under pressure.
On-chain perpetual markets for commodities such as silver are now competing with traditional venues, particularly when trading in permissioned markets becomes more restrictive, underscoring the independent value of always-on, on-chain infrastructure.
Three trends shaping the next growth phase
From this cycle, Nazarov identifies three forces driving the industry forward. First, on-chain perps and tokenized real-world assets are creating durable value that is not reliant on speculative momentum.
Second, institutional adoption is being driven by the practical advantages of DeFi, especially 24/7 permissionless markets. Third, as RWAs become more complex, demand is rising for infrastructure that can reliably connect blockchains with off-chain data and legacy financial systems.
Why infrastructure and data matter
Nazarov argues that data is the foundation enabling RWAs to function on-chain, from pricing feeds and proof-of-reserves to fund NAVs. Chainlink already supplies most of DeFi’s data needs and is expanding its institutional footprint through integrations with providers such as S&P and ICE.
Alongside data, cross-chain connectivity and workflow orchestration are becoming essential as more of the real economy moves on-chain.
RWAs could reshape the industry’s focus
Looking ahead, Nazarov believes real-world assets on-chain could eventually surpass cryptocurrencies in total value, fundamentally changing what the crypto industry is centered around. While digital assets would still benefit from deeper on-chain liquidity, RWAs may be the key catalyst that pushes blockchain technology into true financial mainstream adoption.
#crypto

Vitalik Buterin is revisiting how Ethereum and artificial intelligence should evolve together, arguing that much of the industry is approaching AI from the wrong angle.

Key Takeaways
Vitalik Buterin warns that racing blindly toward AGI risks centralization and loss of human control.He sees Ethereum as the foundation for safer AI, focused on privacy, verification, and decentralization.AI could unlock better markets and governance by scaling human decision-making rather than replacing it.
Instead of treating “AGI” as a single finish line that everyone must race toward, he believes the real challenge is choosing the right direction early. In his view, unchecked acceleration risks concentrating power, weakening individual freedom, and increasing systemic dangers long before true AGI even arrives.
Building on ideas he first outlined two years ago, Buterin presents a clearer, more grounded framework for how Ethereum and AI can intersect in the near term. Rather than abstract theory, his focus is on practical tools and systems that can be built today - tools that shape how AI is used, owned, and controlled before it becomes too powerful to steer.
Trust, privacy, and human control
One of Buterin’s main priorities is making interactions with AI more private and trustless by design. He highlights the importance of local language models that run on personal devices, reducing dependence on centralized AI providers. Alongside this, he points to zero-knowledge payments for AI services, allowing users to pay for API calls without creating persistent identity trails.
The broader goal is to bring Ethereum’s privacy philosophy into the AI world. Just as crypto aimed to remove blind trust from finance, Buterin argues that AI systems should not require users to surrender data, identity, or control simply to function. Cryptographic verification, client-side checks, and privacy-preserving compute are meant to ensure that humans remain in charge, even as models become more capable.
Ethereum as the coordination layer for AI
Buterin also sees Ethereum evolving into an economic and coordination layer for AI agents themselves. In this model, autonomous agents can transact with each other, post security deposits, build onchain reputations, and be held accountable for their behavior. This enables AI systems that are not all owned or operated by a single company behind closed doors.
Importantly, he stresses that this is not about financializing AI for speculation’s sake. Instead, economic tools are used to enable decentralized cooperation. By giving AI agents verifiable identities and incentives, Ethereum can support open, competitive AI ecosystems rather than tightly controlled, centralized ones.
Smarter markets and governance
Beyond infrastructure, Buterin argues that AI can finally make better markets and governance systems workable. Concepts like prediction markets, advanced voting mechanisms, and decentralized decision-making have long looked good on paper but failed in practice due to limits on human attention and reasoning.
Large language models, he says, remove that bottleneck by scaling human judgment. With AI assistance, individuals can participate in more complex decisions without being overwhelmed. This opens the door to governance systems that are more informed, more inclusive, and harder to capture by narrow interests.
Overall, Buterin’s message is a clear pushback against blind acceleration. Rather than asking how fast AI can advance, he is asking how it should advance - and who remains in control along the way. In this framing, Ethereum is not competing to build AGI, but providing the foundations for an AI-driven future that is safer, more decentralized, and more aligned with human autonomy.
#Ethereum #AI

Chainlink has been selected to participate in the Bank of England’s Synchronisation Lab, a major initiative exploring how central bank money can be seamlessly synchronized with tokenized financial assets.

Key takeaways
The Bank of England is actively testing on-chain settlement models.Chainlink is directly involved in linking central bank money with tokenized assets.The initiative targets real-world use cases like foreign exchange, bonds, and collateral.This is infrastructure-level adoption, not a consumer-facing pilot.
The project focuses on enabling atomic settlement between on-chain securities and central bank funds, a critical step toward modernizing financial market infrastructure. By contributing its decentralized oracle and interoperability framework, Chainlink is positioning itself at the center of how traditional finance transitions on-chain.

How the Synchronisation Lab Moves Finance On-Chain
Within the lab, Chainlink will focus on building a decentralized approach to executing settlements that connect central bank payment systems with digitally issued securities. UAC Labs AG joins the initiative with a similar mandate, while other participants - including Swift, LSEG, and Partior - will test synchronized settlement use cases across foreign exchange transactions, tokenized bonds, and collateral management.
The Synchronisation Lab is part of the Bank of England’s broader effort to modernize its Real-Time Gross Settlement system, known as RT2. Participants interact with a simulated version of the upgraded infrastructure through dedicated APIs and user interfaces, allowing them to demonstrate how their platforms coordinate payments and asset registries in real time.
Importantly, the central bank has clarified that the lab does not involve real funds and does not constitute regulatory approval, but instead informs the design of a future live synchronization capability.
LINK Price Action and Market Reaction
From a market standpoint, the announcement has not triggered an immediate bullish response. At the time of writing LINK is trading around $8.51, down 1.62% on the day, with a market capitalization near $6 billion and 24-hour trading volume of approximately $614.5 million.

The subdued price reaction suggests traders are viewing the Bank of England collaboration as a long-term structural catalyst rather than a short-term momentum event. Historically, infrastructure integrations tied to central bank systems tend to influence valuation gradually, as real adoption, transaction volume, and economic impact take time to materialize.
#Chainlink

Former U.S. derivatives regulator Chris Giancarlo has described XRP as a rare example of a digital asset that endured years of aggressive regulatory scrutiny and remained operational.

Key Takeaways
XRP is being positioned as a regulatory survivor after years of legal pressure, with its core network and use case still intact.Short-term price action remains uncertain, as XRP consolidates near $1.41 with neutral RSI and flat MACD momentum.On-chain data shows stress, with holders realizing losses and SOPR falling below 1, a setup often linked to extended consolidation.
Former U.S. Speaking in early February on The XRP Podcast with host Paul Barron, Giancarlo pointed to XRP’s ability to function through prolonged legal uncertainty as evidence of its resilience.
From legal overhang to institutional relevance
Giancarlo said XRP effectively became the “poster child” of the U.S. regulatory crackdown, arguing that few assets faced comparable pressure. With the SEC’s lawsuit against Ripple concluded in 2025, he noted that a major barrier to institutional engagement has been removed, even if market confidence has yet to fully stabilize.
According to Giancarlo, banks have often used unclear rules as justification for avoiding blockchain infrastructure. He suggested that proposed U.S. legislation such as the Clarity Act could strip away that rationale, making it harder for financial institutions to stay on the sidelines once legal frameworks are defined.
Giancarlo rejected the idea of one dominant blockchain, arguing instead for a multi-chain financial system. In this model, the XRP Ledger would coexist with networks like the Canton Network, each optimized for different financial use cases rather than competing for total dominance.
Europe’s head start and the dollar narrative
He also highlighted Europe’s regulatory advantage, noting that the EU’s MiCA framework already allows banks to hold and work with digital assets such as XRP. Giancarlo framed this period as a structural transition, arguing that digital assets could ultimately reinforce the global role of the U.S. dollar rather than weaken it.
Despite the more optimistic regulatory outlook, XRP-linked investment products have remained volatile in recent weeks. The price swings suggest that while legal clarity has improved, investors are still reassessing XRP’s long-term role in institutional finance and cross-border payments.
Technical picture points to consolidation, not collapse
From a technical perspective, XRP is currently trading around the $1.41 area on major exchanges. The hourly chart shows price stabilizing after a sharp sell-off earlier in February, followed by a rebound and sideways consolidation.

Momentum indicators reflect this pause. The RSI is hovering in the mid-40s to high-40s range, suggesting neutral conditions rather than oversold stress. Meanwhile, the MACD has flattened near the zero line after a brief bullish crossover, indicating weakening momentum and a market waiting for a clearer directional catalyst.
On-chain stress mirrors past consolidation phases
On-chain data adds another layer to the picture. According to Glassnode, XRP recently lost its aggregate holder cost basis, a development that historically coincides with panic selling and realized losses.

The SOPR metric has slipped below 1, signaling that many holders are locking in losses. Glassnode notes that a similar setup occurred between late 2021 and mid-2022, a period marked by prolonged consolidation before eventual stabilization rather than an immediate recovery.
ETF flows show selective institutional interest
At the same time, institutional demand has not disappeared. XRP exchange-traded products recorded net inflows of roughly $4.41 million in the latest session, suggesting that some investors are using recent weakness to build exposure. While modest in absolute terms, the inflow contrasts with the broader risk-off tone and hints at selective accumulation rather than wholesale abandonment.
Taken together, XRP’s current setup reflects tension between improving regulatory narratives and short-term market stress. Giancarlo’s comments reinforce the long-term case for regulatory clarity and multi-chain adoption, while technical and on-chain signals suggest the market may need time to absorb recent losses before a more durable trend emerges.
#xrp