Crypto Breaking

ARK Invest has quietly reloaded on Coinbase Global (EXCHANGE: COIN) shares, deploying roughly $15 million across its flagship ETFs after trimming the position at the start of February. The Cathie Wood-led firm disclosed purchases totaling 66,545 Coinbase shares through the ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK), 16,832 shares via the Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW), and 9,477 shares through the Fintech Innovation ETF (ARKF), according to ARK’s daily trade disclosures. The move followed a strong price session for Coinbase stock, which closed at $164.32 on Friday, up about 16% on the day and trading higher in after-hours action. Taken together, the buys lift ARK’s reported Coinbase exposure to roughly $15.2 million in aggregate across the three ETFs. In parallel, ARK stepped up its stake in Roblox Corporation (EXCHANGE: RBLX), with purchases routed through the same trio of ARK funds as Roblox traded near $63.17 on Friday on the New York Stock Exchange.

ARK’s fresh Coinbase exposure amounts to roughly $15 million across ARKK, ARKW, and ARKF, including 66,545 shares in ARKK, 16,832 in ARKW, and 9,477 in ARKF.

Coinbase stock surged roughly 16% intraday, closing at $164.32 and extending gains after the session, underscoring a supportive price backdrop for the trading activity.

The same day also saw ARK lift its Roblox (EXCHANGE: RBLX) holdings across its ETFs, with Roblox trading near the $63.17 mark on Friday.

ARK had trimmed Coinbase shares earlier in February, including roughly $17.4 million sold on Feb. 5—the first reduction since August 2025—and an additional $22 million sold across several ETFs on Feb. 6.

Coinbase’s quarterly results in late 2025 showed a material swing in profitability, with a Q4 net loss of $667 million on revenue of $1.78 billion; transaction revenue declined year over year while subscription and services revenue rose.

The broader market backdrop for crypto equities remained volatile, with ARK ETFs previously contending with crypto-market pullbacks that pressured performance.

Tickers mentioned: $COIN, $RBLX, $BTC, $ETH

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Positive — the session’s sharp rally in Coinbase shares coincided with ARK’s renewed buying across its ETFs, signaling renewed institutional interest even as the broader crypto cycle remained choppy.

Market context: The episode unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing crypto market volatility and shifting risk sentiment. ARK’s activity reflects how ETF flows can momentarily diverge from broader sector headlines, with price action in Coinbase acting as a barometer for investor appetite in crypto-linked equities amid a period of volatility in digital assets.

Why it matters

The resurgence of ARK’s Coinbase exposure matters for investors watching how fast-moving ETF flows interact with crypto-adjacent equities. Coinbase, a primary onramp and exchange operator exposed to the cyclicality of digital asset markets, has endured a brutal 2025 as crypto prices and volumes sagged. The new purchases signal that ARK’s active-management approach remains willing to tilt toward Coinbase when its price action aligns with a broader risk-on tone in the market. The trades also occur alongside ARK’s continued interest in Roblox, a name that remains sensitive to consumer engagement and online platform monetization, highlighting how ARK’s thematic bets span both crypto-enabled fintech and broader digital ecosystems.

From a fundamental perspective, Coinbase’s quarterly results underscore the complexity of monetizing a crypto-connected business in a market where transaction revenue can be volatile. In Q4 2025, Coinbase posted a net loss of $667 million as revenue declined to $1.78 billion, though the company noted a shift in revenue mix with subscription and services delivering modest gains. The variance in quarterly performance was echoed by real-time market dynamics, as COIN’s stock moved with broader crypto sentiment rather than solely company-specific catalysts. This backdrop helps explain why ARK’s ETF footprints can swing with both macro risk sentiment and micro-level earnings data.

For readers tracking the intersection of traditional finance and crypto-native exposure, the narrative around Coinbase also intersects with broader media and product initiatives. Coinbase has been spotlighted for recent product enhancements—whether via AI-oriented wallet features or other wallet innovations highlighted in industry coverage—and for high-profile marketing moves tied to broader consumer appeal. The juxtaposition of strong price moves in COIN with ongoing earnings scrutiny illustrates how investor expectations for growth, revenue diversification, and cost discipline remain essential to how ARK and other active managers position crypto-adjacent equities in a volatile environment.

Additionally, ARK’s strategic positioning in Roblox underscores the firm’s broader appetite for platforms with sticky user engagement and scalable monetization. Roblox’s performance sits at an interesting cross-section of entertainment, user-generated content, and in-app economics, which can be sensitive to digital advertising trends and consumer spending patterns. The simultaneous moves in both Coinbase and Roblox highlight a broader narrative: active managers are testing whether distinct but thematically linked equities can weather the near-term cyclical headwinds while offering exposure to longer-term secular themes in fintech and digital experiences.

Related coverage in the crypto business space has framed Coinbase within a broader technology and asset-management ecosystem, including AI-driven wallet concepts and other crypto-native products that aim to tailor services for developers and users alike. For example, articles detailing Coinbase’s wallets built for AI agents offer a window into how the firm is aligning product development with evolving user demands in a rapidly changing tech landscape. Meanwhile, Coinbase’s public advertising presence continues to shape investor expectations around user growth and platform monetization as the company navigates a shifting regulatory and competitive backdrop.

What to watch next

ARK’s next batch of daily trade disclosures—monitor for further changes in COIN exposure across ARKK, ARKW, and ARKF.

Coinbase’s upcoming earnings cycle and updated guidance on subscription revenue trajectory and planned product initiatives.

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) and Ethereum (CRYPTO: ETH) price action to gauge how macro crypto volatility influences crypto-adjacent equities.

Roblox (EXCHANGE: RBLX) performance metrics and engagement trends as ARK maintains exposure through its ETFs.

Regulatory developments or ETF-flow shifts that could alter sentiment for crypto-linked equities and related fintech names.

Sources & verification

ARK Invest daily trade disclosures detailing purchases across ARKK, ARKW, and ARKF and the corresponding Coinbase (COIN) and Roblox (RBLX) allocations.

Coinbase Q4 2025 earnings release and accompanying financial results (net loss, revenue breakdown, and commentary on future revenue streams).

Google Finance data showing Coinbase closing price of $164.32 and subsequent after-hours movement on the referenced session.

Pricing and trading data for Roblox (RBLX) around the same session to corroborate ARK’s increased stake.

February 5 and February 6 ARK trades reported publicly, including reductions in Coinbase exposure and reallocations within the ETF family, as described in accompanying coverage.

ARK’s renewed Coinbase bet signals renewed institutional appetite amid crypto volatility

ARK Invest’s latest moves reflect a nuanced stance on the intersection of crypto markets and listed equities. The firm’s decision to add approximately $15 million in Coinbase Global stock across ARKK, ARKW, and ARKF comes after a period of selective trimming, suggesting a calibrated stance rather than a blanket turnaround. By acquiring 66,545 shares in ARKK, 16,832 in ARKW, and 9,477 in ARKF, ARK is signaling a belief that Coinbase can absorb near-term volatility while retaining a longer-term growth narrative tied to crypto adoption and fintech infrastructure. Coinbase’s price response—closing above $164 and moving higher in after-hours trade—provides a recent price signal that could attract further ETF-driven demand if the momentum persists.

Against that backdrop, the Roblox position adds another dimension to ARK’s strategy. Roblox is a platform with a large, engaged user base and monetization opportunities spanning in-game purchases, licensing, and developer ecosystem expansion. ARK’s firm-wide tilt toward RBLX across its ETFs underscores an ongoing conviction that digital platforms with scalable network effects remain a core theme for long-term equity growth, even amid episodic volatility in the broader market.

These movements also connect to Coinbase’s ongoing product and marketing efforts, including initiatives highlighted in related coverage that emphasize how the company positions its wallets and services for a world increasingly shaped by AI-assisted technologies and consumer demand for seamless digital-finance experiences. While Coinbase reported a net loss in Q4 2025, driven by the broader crypto market downturn and revenue mix shifts, the stock’s reaction in the Friday session demonstrates that investors are differentiating between near-term earnings results and longer-term strategic positioning—especially when ETF flows reflect renewed confidence in a given name. For readers who track the crypto ecosystem, the sequence underscores how institutional positioning can diverge from macro crypto momentum for periods as investors discern the implications of product diversification, regulatory developments, and platform monetization strategies.

In summary, ARK’s renewed Coinbase exposure and its parallel Roblox moves embody a cautious, theme-driven allocation approach in a market where both crypto volatility and macro sentiment continue to drive sector-wide fluctuations. As the sector evolves, such actions will be watched closely for implications on ETF flows, investor appetite for crypto-linked equities, and the resilience of platform-based business models in digital economies.

This article was originally published as ARK Invest Bets on Coinbase Again with $15M Buy After Selling Spree on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Trump Media & Technology Group, via its Truth Social Funds unit, has moved to offer crypto-focused exchange-traded vehicles registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The filings outline a plan to launch two crypto ETFs tied to major digital assets, along with a Cronos-based yield vehicle designed to capture staking income. The actions mark a notable step in a celebrity-backed enterprise expanding into asset management and crypto markets, with the SEC still reviewing the registrations. The funds are to be developed in partnership with Crypto.com, which would provide custody, liquidity, and staking services if regulators approve the products. Yorkville America Equities would act as investment adviser, and investors would access the funds through Foris Capital US LLC, bearing a 0.95% management fee.

Key takeaways

The Truth Social Funds propose a Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) and Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) ETF designed to mirror the combined performance of the two largest cryptos and include staking rewards for Ether.

A third fund, the Truth Social Cronos Yield Maximizer ETF, targets Cronos (CRYPTO: CRO) and would incorporate staking income from the CRO token.

The partnerships with Crypto.com and Yorkville America Equities place custody, liquidity, and advisory services at the center of the rollout, contingent on SEC approval.

Investors would access the ETFs via Foris Capital US LLC, with a proposed 0.95% management fee on assets under management.

Past disclosures show Truth Social’s broader crypto ambitions, including earlier deals to create “Made in America” ETFs and a treasury-pooling arrangement tied to CRO; these efforts set the backdrop for the current filings.

The move comes as the crypto ETF landscape has faced mixed flows, with spot Bitcoin ETFs recently experiencing weeks of outflows amid ongoing regulatory scrutiny.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH, $CRO

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The filings arrive as crypto ETF development continues to unfold against a backdrop of tightening regulation and selective appetite for crypto-linked vehicles. In recent weeks, spot Bitcoin ETFs have posted net outflows, underscoring cautious investor sentiment even as interest in regulated crypto exposure remains intact in other corners of the market.

Why it matters

The new proposals signal a cautious but strategic expansion of a media brand into asset management, seeking to monetize crypto exposure for investors who want regulated access to digital assets. By pairing Bitcoin and Ether with staking considerations, the funds aim to offer both price appreciation potential and income features, a combination that could appeal to investors seeking a balanced crypto allocation within traditional portfolios. The structure—employing Yorkville America as adviser and Crypto.com for custody and liquidity—highlights a model where traditional financial rails intersect with on-chain capabilities, potentially smoothing investor onboarding if approvals come through.

Historically, Trump Media’s crypto ambitions have traversed partnerships beyond simple trading products. Earlier moves included talks around “Made in America” ETFs and a treasury collaboration with Crypto.com to accumulate CRO, signaling a longer-term thesis on aligning the issuer with scalable crypto ecosystems. If the SEC approves the current filings, these products would not only broaden the firm’s product lineup but also test the appetite of mainstream investors for regulated crypto exposure linked to a recognizable brand. The CRO angle, in particular, ties the product suite to Crypto.com’s Cronos chain, a network that has sought broader adoption through staking and DeFi integrations.

Market context matters for framing the potential impact of these filings. While the crypto market has benefited from ongoing institutional attention, regulators remain a decisive gatekeeper. The sector has seen pockets of inflows and outflows depending on regulatory signals, macro risk sentiment, and the perceived robustness of custody solutions. The latest data show spot Bitcoin ETFs experiencing persistent outflows over several weeks, reinforcing the idea that even as regulated vehicles grow, investor caution can persist in periods of policy ambiguity. In this environment, a well-structured product with institutional partners could provide a bridge for investors seeking regulated crypto exposure with a familiar framework.

What to watch next

SEC review and potential approval timeline for the Truth Social Funds’ registrations.

Regulatory clarity on custody, staking, and ETF structure for crypto assets in the United States.

Progress of the Crypto.com custody and liquidity arrangements if approvals are granted.

Any updates on the Foris Capital US LLC platform accessibility and investor onboarding processes.

Follow-up disclosures on the performance and governance of the two crypto ETFs and the CRO-focused Yield Maximizer ETF once launched.

Sources & verification

Truth Social Funds files registration statement for two digital asset ETFs. PR Newswire, which announced the SEC filing.

Trump Media inks deal with Crypto.com for Made in America ETFs (historical context). Cointelegraph.

Trump Media Company Crypto.com treasury deal (historical context). Cointelegraph.

Spot Bitcoin ETF fund flows and outflows data. SoSoValue.

Trump-affiliated funds seek crypto ETF exposure to BTC, ETH and CRO

Trump Media & Technology Group, via its Truth Social Funds arm, has filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to launch two crypto-focused exchange-traded funds and a Cronos-based yield vehicle. The proposed Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) and Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) ETF would aim to mirror the combined performance of the two largest cryptos by market capitalization while also capturing staking rewards generated by Ether. A Cronos (CRYPTO: CRO) Yield Maximizer ETF would pursue a similar approach for Crypto.com’s native token, including staking income. The filings are not yet effective and remain under SEC review.

The proposals outline a multi-asset strategy designed to provide investors with both capital appreciation and income opportunities within a regulated framework. Yorkville America Equities would serve as investment adviser for both funds, while Crypto.com is positioned to supply custody, liquidity, and staking services should regulators approve the products. Access to the ETFs would be provided through Foris Capital US LLC, and each product is expected to carry a 0.95% management fee.

In a broader sense, the filings reflect an ongoing push by Truth Social’s financial arm to expand beyond its social platform into crypto-market infrastructure. The company has, in the past, pursued partnerships that would blend digital assets with traditional securities, including a set of “Made in America” ETFs and a treasury collaboration with Crypto.com to accumulate CRO—an initial purchase of about 684.4 million CRO valued at roughly $105 million through a mix of stock and cash. The evolution from partnership announcements to formal ETF registrations suggests a disciplined step toward regulated crypto exposure, with the emphasis on custody and staking services designed to address investor risk concerns.

From a market perspective, the timing of these filings aligns with a phase where regulated crypto products remain aspirational for some investors but seem increasingly plausible for others. The sector has experienced churn in flows as liquidity, risk appetite, and regulatory signals shift. The latest spot-Bitcoin ETF data show a streak of net outflows, signaling continued investor caution even as institutions increasingly discuss and consider regulated routes to crypto exposure. As the SEC reviews the Truth Social Funds’ proposals, observers will be watching not only for approval decisions but also for how these products handle custody, staking, and distribution through existing broker-dealer channels.

This article was originally published as Trump Media Files for Two Crypto ETFs Tied to Bitcoin, Ether, Cronos on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin’s latest price action shows buyers attempting to extend a modest relief, with the benchmark crypto eclipsing the $68,500 mark as they seek to form a higher low around $65,000. On-chain analytics place BTC in a broad consolidation corridor, sandwiched between a true market mean near $79,200 and a realized price around $55,000. Analysts caution that this range-bound dynamic could persist until a tangible catalyst breaks the stalemate, sending prices either toward the upper boundary or back toward support levels. The current landscape reflects a delicate balance between demand at lower levels and selling pressure at nearby resistance, underscoring a market waiting for a clearer directional cue.

Key takeaways

Bitcoin has moved above 68,500 but faces stiff resistance near 74,508, where a breakout would signal renewed bullish momentum and a potential shift in the range.

On-chain data from Glassnode places BTC within a broad corridor, with the true market mean around 79,200 and the realized price near 55,000, implying accumulation could intensify only on a decisive breakout.

Standard Chartered trimmed its BTC price target for 2026 to 100,000 from 150,000 and subsequently projected a dip to 50,000 in the near term before a late-year recovery, highlighting a cautious institutional stance.

Several market observers still argue that BTC has not yet printed a definitive bottom; a notable forecast puts a bottom in the 40,000–50,000 range between September and November 2026.

Altcoins show pockets of resilience, with selective recoveries across ETH, BNB, XRP, SOL, DOGE, BCH, HYPE, ADA, and XMR as traders scan for early signs of a broader reversal.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH, $BNB, $XRP, $SOL, $DOGE, $BCH, $HYPE, $ADA, $XMR

Market context: The broader market remains in a cautious stance as liquidity shifts and risk sentiment weigh on near-term moves. BTC’s current trajectory sits within a defined range, with analysts awaiting a decisive catalyst to push prices beyond resistance at 74,508 or to test critical supports. Institutional views add a layer of caution: Standard Chartered’s revised targets underscore a more conservative path for BTC in 2026, while analysts like Tony Research have outlined a potential bottoming window that could extend into late 2026. The immediate narrative centers on whether buyers can sustain pressure to invalidate the prevailing consolidation and ignite a broader rally.

Why it matters

The immediate importance of the current price structure lies in its impact on risk appetite and portfolio strategy. A sustained break above the 74,508 resistance level would not only shift the technical landscape for Bitcoin but could also rekindle momentum across the market, potentially drawing fresh capital into the space and facilitating a fuller altcoin recovery. Conversely, a breakdown below significant support could reinforce a risk-off mood, prompting a retracement toward the lower end of the range and testing the resilience of major support zones.

On-chain metrics provide context for traders weighing opportunity versus risk. The gap between the true market mean and the realized price implies participants are mindful of the distance between where BTC traded historically and where it is currently priced on a realized basis. This creates a framework in which bulls must prove durability by pushing beyond key technical thresholds, while bears still cling to the possibility of renewed downside if sellers re-enter with vigor. The evolving dialogue between on-chain signals and price action continues to shape sentiment, particularly as institutions reassess their longer-term exposure given mixed forecasts for the asset class.

For market participants, the current setup also matters for liquidity access and risk management. A confirmed breakout could unlock fresh liquidity pools and spur risk-taking in related sectors, whereas a protracted consolidation may incentivize traders to adopt range-bound strategies, await catalysts, or reallocate to alternative opportunities within and outside the crypto market. The evolving narrative across BTC and the major altcoins sets a backdrop for how exchanges, custodians, and developers approach scaling, risk controls, and product launches in the coming quarters.

What to watch next

Bitcoin: Monitor a clear move above 74,508 to validate a bullish breakout, or a break below 60,000 to suggest renewed downside pressure and a potential retest of lower supports.

Ether: A sustained push above 2,111 would signal renewed demand, while a breach of 1,750 could invite a deeper correction toward 1,537 or lower.

XRP: The pair remains within a descending-channel pattern; a daily close above the 1.55 level and the downtrend line would be a bullish cue, while a drop below 1.11 could accelerate losses toward 1.00.

Solana: The 95 level stands as a bear fault line; a move above could target the 50-day SMA near 119, whereas a failure near 95 might push toward 77 and test support.

Dogecoin: Bulls need a breakout above 0.12 to signal progress, with 0.09 acting as a critical support; a break below 0.09 raises the risk of a slide toward 0.08 and beyond.

Sources & verification

Bitcoin price action around 68,500 with a key resistance near 74,508 and the concept of a higher low near 65,000 to frame the near-term setup.

Glassnode on-chain metrics showing BTC trading between a true market mean of ~79,200 and a realized price near ~55,000.

Standard Chartered’s revised BTC targets: 100,000 for 2026 with a potential move down to 50,000 in the near term.

Analyst commentary placing BTC bottom prospects in the 40,000–50,000 range during Sept–Nov 2026.

TradingView-based charts and top-10 asset analyses used to illustrate price action across BTC and major altcoins.

Market reaction and key figures shaping the crypto chart landscape

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) has managed a cautious uptick, clearing the 68,500 mark as buyers push for a higher low near 65,000. The price action sits within a defined corridor: a ceiling at 74,508 and a floor supported by the psychological and technical baselines around 60,000. The trajectory suggests traders are weighing a potential breakout against the risk of renewed downside, a dichotomy that mirrors the broader market’s struggle to find a durable directional impulse.

In the broader market, major alts are attempting to carve out their own narratives. Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) is fighting to sustain a foothold above 2,000, with resistance sketched at 2,111. A decisive breach above that threshold could catalyze a broader recovery, while a retreat could backtest 1,750 and possibly lower. Binance Coin (CRYPTO: BNB) has seen price pressure as well, edging toward a critical support level around 570—an area that could determine whether bulls gain ground to push toward the 669-plateau and the 20-day moving average near 710. XRP (CRYPTO: XRP) continues to navigate within a descending channel; a breakout above the 1.55 level on a sustained basis could deflate the pessimism around the pattern, whereas a failure to hold could accelerate a slide toward 1.11 and beyond.

Solana (CRYPTO: SOL) traders are closely watching $77 as a support pivot, with a failure to hold that level potentially steering the price toward 67–95. Conversely, a break above 95 could open the door to a test of the 50-day moving average around 119, suggesting a bear trap could be in play. Dogecoin (CRYPTO: DOGE) remains sensitive to micro rallies but faces ongoing selling pressure on rallies; a break above 0.12 would be noteworthy, while a drop below 0.09 reinforces the risk of a slide toward 0.08.

Bitcoin Cash (CRYPTO: BCH) has shown weakness below the 497 level, yet bulls are contesting the 20-day EMA around 536. A sustained move above the EMA would indicate demand at lower levels and could target the 50-day moving average near 581, while a failure could leave BCH exposed to a decline toward 443. Across the spectrum, Hyperliquid (CRYPTO: HYPE) has regained footing above the 20-day EMA, signaling buying on dips; a decisive move beyond 35.50 could spur a rally toward 44, while a break below 27.25 risks a drop toward 20.82. Cardano (CRYPTO: ADA) remains locked in a descending channel, with a break above the 20-day EMA at 0.29 needed to extend the range in a more constructive fashion. Monero (CRYPTO: XMR) is testing the 360 barrier, with a potential breakout to challenge the 385 and 460 levels if buying pressure intensifies, though a fall below 309 could invite a push toward 276 as a potential buyer magnet.

BTC/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingView

This article was originally published as 2/13 Price Predictions: BTC ETH BNB XRP SOL DOGE BCH HYPE ADA XMR on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin investors are rethinking the asset’s role as inflation cools, according to Bitcoin entrepreneur Anthony Pompliano. He told Fox Business that a softer inflation backdrop raises questions about Bitcoin’s value proposition as a finite-supply asset, especially if central banks continue to pursue accommodative policies. With January’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) cooling to 2.4% from 2.7%, the macro narrative is shifting and traders are weighing how long the inflation narrative can sustain crypto’s narrative as a hedge. The current price action mirrors a cautious mood within the market, as Bitcoin has retreated over the past month while sentiment remains subdued.

Key takeaways

January CPI came in at 2.4% year over year, down from 2.7% in December, signaling a softer inflation backdrop.

Bitcoin’s sentiment measure has slipped to multi-year lows, with the Crypto Fear & Greed Index signaling “Extreme Fear” at a recent reading.

The flagship cryptocurrency is trading around the mid-to-upper $60 thousands, after a roughly 28% decline in the last 30 days.

The U.S. dollar’s strength has cooled, with the dollar index down about 2.3% over the past month, reflecting shifting macro dynamics.

Pompliano outlined a “monetary slingshot” thesis: as the dollar devalues and deflationary pressures surface in the near term, Bitcoin could gain longer-term value even if near-term volatility persists.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC

Sentiment: Bearish

Price impact: Negative. Bitcoin’s price has fallen roughly 28% over the past month as macro concerns and sentiment weigh on risk assets.

Market context: In a broader macro context, inflation data and policy expectations continue to shape appetite for risk assets, including crypto. Traders are watching how central banks respond to evolving growth signals, while crypto-specific catalysts compete with traditional macro forces in steering flows and volatility.

Why it matters

The debate over Bitcoin’s role as a hedge against inflation has long hinged on the premise that a fixed supply will preserve value when fiat currencies are debased. Pompliano’s comments underscore the tension between theory and market reality: even as inflation data cools, the path of monetary policy remains uncertain, and investors are wary of premature conclusions about a lasting inflation retreat. In the near term, softer inflation can sap risk premium, potentially slowing the upside impulse for non-fiat stores of value like Bitcoin. Yet the longer-term case for supply-limited assets persists in the eyes of many bulls, particularly if policy makers persist with higher money growth or if inflation surprises to the upside later in the cycle.

The price action around Bitcoin during this period is a reminder that macro-driven volatility remains a defining feature of markets. The asset’s correlation with broader risk sentiment has intensified at times, even as proponents argue that the fixed supply and ever-closer approach to a 21 million cap provide a unique resilience during downturns. The current price backdrop—around $68,850 at publication and a 28% decline over 30 days—illustrates the tug-of-war between inflation awareness and liquidity conditions in crypto markets. The discussion around how monetary policy interacts with digital assets is likely to stay in focus as investors recalibrate what constitutes a hedge in a low-inflation regime that could be reinforced by policy shifts in the months ahead.

Additionally, the commentary around a potential “monetary slingshot” frames Bitcoin as part of a broader debate about how currency debasement and macro policy interact with a new generation of investors. If the dollar softens further in response to renewed expectations for money supply expansion or rate adjustments, Bitcoin could attract fresh inflows as an alternative store of value. That possibility exists alongside the reality that sentiment remains fragile and technicals are unsettled, making immediate directional bets more challenging for casual traders and even some long-term holders.

The impact of macro data on crypto markets is not isolated to Bitcoin. Broader market dynamics—ranging from ETF activity to sentiment gauges—continue to influence the pace and direction of capital into digital assets. Investors are weighing whether the inflation narrative can reassert itself or if structural shifts in the macro environment will redefine how crypto assets behave in risk-off cycles. In parallel, other macro indicators—like the strength or weakness of the U.S. dollar—will help determine whether BTC can sustain any upside or if it remains trapped within a wider risk-off regime.

For readers following the latest data points, the CPI figure and the Fed’s communications are central to the story. While the inflation print itself is a headline, the deeper question is whether the disinflationary trend proves durable or merely a snapshot in a more complex cycle. As Pompliano noted in his remarks, even if inflation cools on the surface, structural changes in policy and global liquidity conditions could continue to shape the narrative around Bitcoin’s long-term value proposition.

In parallel, the market’s mood as reflected by the Crypto Fear & Greed Index and the price movement of Bitcoin underscore a broader caution. The index’s “Extreme Fear” reading suggests that participants are reluctant to push risk assets higher, even when macro data offers a glimmer of relief. Traders will be watching next month’s inflation data, policy statements, and the evolving set of on-chain metrics to gauge whether the current sell-off represents a temporary pause or the onset of a new leg lower.

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This article was originally published as Bitcoin Holders Are Being Tested as Inflation Fades, Pompliano on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Ether traded back above the $2,000 level on Friday, extending gains after the US consumer price index print came in cooler than expected. The relief rally adds to a nascent recovery narrative that could open the door to a test of higher targets if momentum sustains. Market participants are parsing a mix of on-chain signals, leverage data, and institutional demand as they gauge whether this move can translate into a durable bottom or simply a short-lived bounce. With weekly closes in focus, traders are watching for follow-through in the days ahead, while crypto derivatives data continues to feed the debate over whether risk appetite is finally pivoting in Ethereum’s favor.

Key takeaways

Ether futures’ open interest across major exchanges has fallen by about 80 million ETH in the past 30 days, signaling a broad reduction in leveraged exposure rather than new long bets.

Binance, the largest venue by volume, led the decline with roughly 40 million ETH pulled from futures positions (about half of the total drop), underscoring a widespread de-risking trend across top platforms.

Across Gate, Bybit and OKX, combined declines pushed the total among the four major platforms toward a cumulative drop of roughly 75 million ETH, suggesting the trend is not isolated to a single exchange.

Funding rates on Binance slipped into deep negative territory (around -0.006), the lowest seen in about three years, implying extreme bearish positioning that could set the stage for a short squeeze if buyers re-emerge.

Technically, Ether has carved out a bullish setup, breaking from a falling wedge and hovering near $2,050; a measured move could target around $2,150, with potential tests of the 100-period SMA near $2,260 and a path toward $2,500 if demand accelerates.

On-chain activity and rising institutional demand have persisted as tailwinds, with cost-basis accumulation identified around the $1,880–$1,900 zone helping form a potential price base for further upside.

Tickers mentioned: $ETH

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Positive. The cooler CPI print contributed to a rebound from the $2,000 area and increased odds of an extended bounce toward higher targets.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The setup points to potential upside on continued demand signals, but traders should remain mindful of macro surprises and the possibility of renewed volatility if liquidity conditions shift.

Market context: The latest inflation data appears to have nudged investors back toward risk assets, helping to ease some of the near-term macro headwinds that had weighed on crypto markets. Although liquidity remains uneven across venues, the combination of weaker-than-expected inflation readings and supportive on-chain dynamics has contributed to a more constructive backdrop for Ethereum in the near term.

Why it matters

From a market perspective, Ethereum’s price action this week matters not only for holders but for the broader crypto ecosystem. The confluence of falling open interest and negative funding rates suggests many participants were trimming risk rather than chasing new bets, which can reduce the likelihood of rapid, force-driven liquidations in a downside scenario. In such environments, a cleaner backdrop often arises where a new rally can take hold more easily if buyers step in decisively, creating a more stable price base. The sustained improvement in network activity and inflows from institutional actors adds another layer of fundamental support that could help underpin a more durable recovery beyond short-term speculative moves.

On the on-chain front, the observed accumulation at sub-$2,000 levels signals a cadre of investors is building a longer-term stance, a factor that matters because the health of Ether’s network—usage, validator activity, and transaction throughput—has historically fed into price resilience. This dynamic aligns with discussions in the space about Ether’s role not just as a trading instrument but as a network with ongoing growth potential, particularly if demand from institutions and developers continues to accrete.

For market participants, the critical question is whether the $2,000 threshold can function as a genuine floor in the current cycle. If price can hold that level and push higher, momentum could attract fresh buyers and sequentially lift Ether toward the $2,150–$2,260 range in the near term, with a longer arc toward the $2,500 zone if fundamental and technical signals align. Conversely, a break below that level could accelerate downside risk, especially if systemic liquidity tightens or macro headlines shift sentiment once again. In either case, the latest data suggest that the market is closer to a base-building phase than a continuation of the prior downtrend.

What to watch next

Monitor whether ETH holds the $2,000 support on continued trading sessions and whether buyers emerge at the next test of resistance around $2,150.

Track open interest and funding rates across major exchanges for signs of capitulation ending or renewed leverage entering the market.

Watch for a potential challenge to the 100-period simple moving average near $2,260 and any subsequent move toward $2,500 if momentum remains constructive.

Observe on-chain signals, including ongoing accumulation patterns and institutional flow indicators, for signs of sustained demand beyond short-term price action.

Sources & verification

CryptoQuant Quicktake: Ethereum open interest across major exchanges declines by over 80 million ETH in 30 days.

CryptoQuant analysis on funding rates hitting -0.006, the lowest level since December 2022, signaling extreme bearish positioning.

Glassnode heatmap data showing a cost-basis distribution with substantial support between $1,880 and $1,900 and roughly 1.3 million ETH accumulated there.

On-chain signals and institutional inflows discussed in related coverage, including notes on network activity tailwinds for Ether.

Ether price action and outlook

Ether broke out of a descending wedge on the four-hour chart and traded around $2,050 at the time of observation. The measured move from the breakout points toward $2,150 highlights a near-term upside trajectory, with the potential to test higher resistance if the rally gains traction. The same chart framework points to possible retests of the 100-period simple moving average near $2,260, followed by a pathway toward the $2,500 horizon should momentum accelerate beyond the immediate levels.

On the downside, a firm hold above the psychological $2,000 level remains a critical anchor, reinforced by the 50-period moving average that has acted as interim support in recent sessions. The cost-basis distribution heatmap from Glassnode emphasizes a populated zone beneath the current price, where long-term holders have previously shown willingness to accumulate, which could provide a stabilizing force if price action turns choppy in the near term.

Historically, periods of negative funding rates at strong price floors have preceded short squeezes that sparked sharper moves to the upside. If the current dynamic persists—declining open interest, controlled leverage, and improving macro sentiment—ETH could establish a more durable base rather than form a brief rally followed by renewed volatility. As market attention shifts toward macro cues and ETF developments, investors will be watching how ETH behaves around key support levels and whether on-chain demand sustains the current trajectory.

This article was originally published as ETH Open Interest Drops to 3-Year Low: What It Means for Ether Price on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Ether continues to hover near the $2,000 area, but the bulls facesheadwinds from a suite of macro and market dynamics that could cap any bounce. Traders are parsing corporate earnings guidance, the trajectory of US government debt refinancing, and mounting global tensions that can keep risk assets on a sensitive leash. After a brief rebound earlier in February, Ether has struggled to muster sustained upside as funding costs stay elevated and investors rotate toward liquidity in short-term Treasuries. The balance of on-chain activity, investor sentiment, and macro indicators will likely determine whether $2,000 acts as a magnet or a battleground for the next leg of this cycle.

Key takeaways

Institutional demand for Ether is cooling as investors shift toward the safety of short-term US government bonds.

High interest rates and rising ETH supply make the current staking yield less attractive for long-term holders.

US-listed Ether ETFs posted net outflows, underscoring a shift in liquidity away from Ether-related products in the near term.

Markets are pricing in the potential for further rate cuts by the Fed in 2026, as signs of economic stagnation temper inflationary risks.

Tickers mentioned: $ETH

Sentiment: Bearish

Price impact: Negative. Ether is facing renewed downside pressure amid macro headwinds and fading ETF inflows.

Market context: The broader crypto landscape remains heavily correlated with macro liquidity and risk sentiment. As investors reassess growth trajectories and central bank paths, flows into Ether ETFs and related instruments have become a bellwether for institutional appetite. With the 2-year US Treasury yield echoing the low- to mid-3% regime seen in recent sessions, traders anticipate a possible easing cycle later in the year, a dynamic that often trades off against appetite for higher-risk, high-utility assets like Ether.

Why it matters

Ether’s ability to sustain price strength is intimately tied to both on-chain economics and external financial conditions. The network’s staking yield—already a focal point for long-term holders—faces increased scrutiny as the annual ETH supply growth persists at roughly 0.8%. Against a backdrop of a stagnant or sluggish macro backdrop, a 2.9% staking yield becomes less compelling for risk-averse investors when the Fed’s target rate sits higher, and bond markets offer a comparatively safer carry. This dynamic can dampen the incentive to stake, potentially dampening network security metrics and long-term price resilience if the flow of fresh ETH to stake is subdued.

Market momentum has also been influenced by ETF mechanics. Recent outflows from US-listed Ether ETFs, totaling around $242 million over a short window, have erased earlier inflows that followed Ether’s bottoming around the mid-$1,700s in February. Although the outflows represent a fraction of total assets under management, they signal a shift in sentiment among institutional participants who previously sought exposure through regulated wrappers. Net flows matter because they influence price discovery and liquidity, especially in a market where players weigh the relative safety of traditional assets against the potential upside of a more scalable and active network.

From a technical and derivatives perspective, traders have grown more cautious. The options market shows a tilt toward downside protection, with the delta skew for Ether options tracing above longer-term averages as investors pay a premium for put-driven hedges or neutral-to-bearish bets. This mood aligns with the observation that the asset trades substantially below its all-time highs, and even a mid-cycle recovery may be met with sellers who view rallies as opportunities to exit risk exposure.

Even as macro narratives push risk-off tendencies, Ether’s position as the leading smart contract platform remains intact in terms of activity and TVL leadership. Yet, the near-term price path hinges on a confluence of factors: corporate earnings resonance, the pace of debt refinancing, and the macro impulse toward or away from expansionary fiscal measures. The market is also watching policy signals and potential regulatory clarity that could influence appetite for crypto assets overall. In parallel, other networks offering base-layer scalability and faster on-chain throughput keep pressuring ETH’s relative competitive stance, particularly when investors seek higher efficiency at a similar risk profile.

Overall, the market narrative remains cautious. Traders acknowledge that a meaningful downside could be tempered by supportive macro cues or favorable liquidity conditions, but the immediate trajectory appears tethered to external events rather than purely on-chain developments. In this environment, Ether’s price reactivity is likely to depend on the collectivity of earnings surprises, debt management decisions, and the speed at which risk appetite re-emerges after episodes of volatility.

What to watch next

Upcoming corporate earnings season and guidance revisions that may influence broader risk sentiment.

US government debt refinancing milestones and any shifts in fiscal policy that affect liquidity conditions.

Net ETF flows for Ether products in the next reporting period and any changes in investor allocations.

Macro data releases and Fed commentary that could solidify or alter expectations for rate cuts in 2026.

On-chain activity and staking metrics that could alter the relative attractiveness of ETH staking over time.

Sources & verification

US-listed Ether ETF net flow data and related commentary from market trackers and issuer analyses.

Pricing and yield data for the US 2-year Treasury, with context on regime expectations for Fed policy.

Historical ETH price actions, including the February bottom around $1,744 and subsequent recovery patterns.

Derivatives metrics for ETH, including delta skew readings from Deribit via data providers.

On-chain and market commentary describing total value locked and network leadership dynamics in short- to mid-term cycles.

Ether under pressure as macro cues weigh on ETH

Ether (Ether (CRYPTO: ETH)) has spent recent sessions hovering near the $2,000 level, with constraints on a sustained move above roughly $2,150 since early February. The hesitation is not solely technical; it reflects a complex interplay between macro policy expectations, investor risk appetite, and the evolving structure of liquidity in crypto markets. After a brief bounce off a February trough around the mid-$1,700s, Ether’s price action has cooled as traders reassess the durability of any rally in the face of higher funding costs and competing opportunities in fixed income.

One of the critical macro signals comes from the bond market. The US two-year Treasury yield has moved toward the lower end of its range, around the 3.4% area, signaling that participants anticipate a more accommodative stance from the Federal Reserve in the coming years. This shift in rate expectations tends to push investors toward safer assets, including government debt, and away from higher-beta risk assets like Ether. The dynamic is reinforced by growth signals that, at least in the near term, point toward a more tepid expansion, which reduces inflationary pressure and can further support a cautious easing bias by the Fed.

In the near term, the ETF landscape remains a focal point. After a period of resilience, US-listed Ether ETFs posted net outflows that overshadowed earlier inflows tied to the recovery from the February dip. The outflows—calibrated against a substantial asset base—suggest that some institutional participants have scaled back their near-term exposure, contributing to soft price action. This is particularly relevant given that the broader crypto market often tracks risk-on/risk-off sentiment as much as, if not more than, internal on-chain metrics.

On-chain and derivatives metrics offer a complementary view of sentiment. The ETH options market has shown elevated demand for hedges, with the delta skew for 30-day options remaining elevated and indicating a willingness among professional traders to pay for protection against downside moves. The dataset, drawn from sources measuring the put-call balance, underscores a prevailing mood of caution among market participants who are mindful of the higher probability of further drawdowns given the current macro backdrop. This sentiment aligns with the six-month bear-market narrative, as Ether trades well below its all-time high and investors weigh the risk/reward of staking versus holding for appreciation.

Supply dynamics also weigh on the long-term narrative. Ether’s annualized supply growth sits modestly positive, while the immediate yield offered by staking remains modest in comparison to the prevailing interest rate environment. For long-term holders, the attractiveness of staking becomes a function of both yield and the perceived safety of ETH as a platform with continued innovation and network effects. The tug of war between yield, risk, and network activity will help determine whether staking becomes a stronger driver of price stability or a source of selling pressure if yields fail to outpace risk premia in traditional markets.

Market leadership in on-chain activity and TVL remains a strength of the Ethereum ecosystem, which helps to anchor Ether’s longer-term narrative even as near-term price action exhibits caution. However, the combination of macro sensitivity, ETF flow dynamics, and derivatives positioning means that the path forward is likely to be incremental rather than transformative in the near term. Investors will be watching not only macro indicators and corporate earnings but also regulatory clarity and liquidity shifts that could redefine the risk landscape for crypto assets in the months ahead. The outcome will shape whether Ether can regain momentum or continue to trade in a constrained range as the market reconciles macro expectations with the evolving use cases on Ethereum’s network.

For readers tracking the broader macro and on-chain narrative, the next few weeks will be telling. If inflation eases more rapidly than anticipated or if the Fed signals a clearer path toward rate cuts, risk appetite could stabilize and support a healthier Ether environment. Conversely, if growth indicators surprise to the downside or if liquidity conditions tighten further, ETH could test new near-term lows as traders search for safety and retreat from higher-risk exposures.

This article was originally published as Ether Holds $2K as $242M Spot ETH ETF Outflow Could Reignite Downside on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

The regulatory dispute shaping crypto markets intensified as lawmakers push the CLARITY Act, a proposal aimed at reconciling jurisdiction between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) while introducing a formal taxonomy for digital assets. In this environment, White House crypto adviser Patrick Witt argued that allowing stablecoin reward programs offered by crypto platforms should not threaten traditional banks, urging room for compromise between the industry and incumbents. He described the current clash over stablecoin yields as “unfortunate,” insisting that platforms can offer yield products without disrupting existing bank models. A key line of debate centers on whether such yields amount to an unfair advantage or a natural extension of crypto services that banks are already pursuing through OCC charters.

Witt spoke publicly amid ongoing negotiations about the CLARITY Act, a comprehensive bill that would delineate regulatory authority between the SEC and CFTC and codify a framework for classifying crypto assets. He told Yahoo Finance that the industry and banks should be able to operate with shared, competitive product offerings, and that cooperation could unlock new services for customers while preserving financial stability. The interview underscored a broader stance within the administration: innovation should not be stifled, but it must be channeled through clear, enforceable rules.

“They can also offer stablecoin products to their customers, just the same as crypto. This is not an unfair advantage in either way, and many banks are now applying for OCC bank charters themselves to start offering bank-like products to their customers.”

As the debate continues, industry observers note that stablecoin yield programs—long a source of friction between crypto platforms and traditional banks—have become a focal point in how the market structures, and how lawmakers will eventually codify governance for digital assets. The tension has contributed to delays in passing the CLARITY market structure bill, even as proponents emphasize that regulatory clarity would reduce risk and foster legitimate growth. The discussion is not limited to the United States; its outcomes could influence international actors seeking a predictable framework for crypto activities and yield-bearing products.

The CLARITY Act is not just about power delineations; it is also about process. The proposal would establish a formal taxonomy for digital assets and set clear boundaries on which agency leads on what types of instruments. In doing so, it aims to reduce the ambiguity that many market participants say has slowed product development and investment decisions. Yet with the 2026 U.S. midterm elections looming, policymakers and industry executives warn that a shift in control or a politicized environment could derail momentum and threaten the timeline for implementing new rules.

Supporters of the bill have argued that the current regulatory haze is a drag on innovation and market integrity alike. Opponents worry about overreach and the potential for regulatory fragmentation to create compliance burdens. The administration’s line, echoed by Witt, is that a pragmatic path exists: a framework that protects consumers and ensures fair competition while allowing crypto firms to compete on a level playing field with traditional financial institutions.

The debate has drawn attention from high-level voices inside and outside government. Some officials warn that if the House shifts control or if the midterms redraw the political map, the chance to finalize the act could slip away, raising the specter of a regulatory rollback under future administrations. In the meantime, proponents are pushing to keep the window open, arguing that a timely compromise would deliver much-needed clarity and enable continued innovation in a sector that has already reshaped payments, asset custody, and yield strategies for many users.

As markets watch for signs of movement, Witt cautions that a sense of urgency remains essential. The White House Crypto Council has signaled a preference to have the CLARITY Act signed into law before the midterms absorb all policy energy, a reflection of how election cycles can impact regulatory priorities in Washington. The broader industry context remains one of cautious optimism tempered by the reality that policy change in this arena tends to unfold incrementally, with multiple committees, hearings, and competing priorities shaping the final form of any legislation.

Key takeaways

The CLARITY Act seeks to resolve regulatory overlaps by defining clear jurisdiction for crypto markets between the SEC and CFTC and by creating an asset taxonomy.

Stablecoin reward programs offered by crypto platforms have emerged as a central flashpoint in negotiations, affecting how banks perceive competition and the potential for OCC charters to offer similar products.

White House and industry voices emphasize that allowing yield-bearing crypto products does not inherently threaten bank models and may spur collaboration between fintechs and traditional banks.

The approach hinges on political timing: the 2026 U.S. midterm elections could derail momentum, prompting urgency from policymakers to secure legislation before the election cycle dominates attention.

Market participants are watching for concrete signals on regulatory alignment, licence pathways for banks, and any new guidance from the White House Crypto Council ahead of meaningful legislative action.

Beyond domestic debates, the outcome of CLARITY could influence global regulatory expectations and how exchanges, lenders, and wallets structure risk and compliance moving forward.

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The ongoing CLARITY discussions sit within a broader climate of regulatory scrutiny and evolving risk sentiment in crypto markets. Investors and institutions await a coherent framework that reduces ambiguity around asset classification, custody, and product permissions, all while remaining sensitive to political timelines and potential shifts in congressional control. As regulators debate jurisdiction, market participants recalibrate liquidity strategies and risk management practices in anticipation of clarity rather than ambiguity.

Why it matters

The core significance of these negotiations lies in the potential for a formal, nationwide framework that makes it easier for crypto firms to operate with confidence while offering consumers clearer protections. A codified taxonomy and clarified agency responsibilities would reduce the current patchwork of guidance, enabling more predictable product development and risk management for platforms that offer yield-based services tied to stablecoins. For banks, the debate tests their willingness to engage with digital-asset ecosystems in a way that preserves safety and soundness while exploring new revenue streams through regulated, bank-like products.

For users, regulatory clarity could translate into more robust consumer protections, standardized disclosures, and a more consistent set of custodial and settlement practices. For builders—exchanges, wallets, and fintechs—a stable, rule-based environment lowers compliance risk and potentially unlocks new partnerships with traditional financial institutions. Yet until legislation passes, the sector remains exposed to policy fluctuations, with funding cycles, product launches, and strategic investments hinging on regulatory signals rather than market fundamentals alone.

In a sector that has repeatedly demonstrated the rapidity with which innovation can outpace policy, the CLARITY Act represents more than a legal instrument; it is a test of the industry’s ability to coexist with traditional finance under a framework that seeks to prevent systemic risk. The administration’s emphasis on timely action underscores the stakes: jurisdictions, product categories, and the balance of powers in financial regulation are all at stake as negotiators weigh how to translate high-level principles into enforceable rules. The outcome could set a template for how the United States integrates crypto assets into the broader financial system, with potential ripple effects across markets, liquidity flows, and investor confidence.

What to watch next

Progress in CLARITY Act negotiations in Congress, including committee votes and potential amendments (date-dependent).

Election results and the political balance of the House and Senate in the 2026 midterms and their impact on crypto policy agendas.

Official guidance or announcements from the White House Crypto Council regarding timelines for the bill’s signing or regulatory clarifications.

Any movement on OCC charter applications or other pathways for banks to offer crypto-related, yield-bearing products to customers.

Public disclosures or hearings that illuminate how the SEC and CFTC would implement the proposed asset taxonomy and jurisdictional boundaries.

Sources & verification

What the CLARITY Act is actually trying to clarify in crypto markets — Cointelegraph

White House crypto adviser says there’s no time to wait as CLARITY Act window closes — Yahoo Finance

Delays in passing the CLARITY market structure bill — Cointelegraph

White House crypto bill talks ‘productive,’ but no deal yet — Cointelegraph

Market reaction and key details

What the debate means for users and institutions

The conversations around the CLARITY Act reflect a pivotal moment for crypto policy: designers of the framework aim to secure a balance between encouraging innovation and maintaining financial stability. The tension over stablecoin yields reveals a deeper question about alignment between rapidly evolving digital-asset products and traditional financial services. As negotiators seek to codify roles and product allowances, market participants should monitor statements from policymakers and industry leaders, as these will influence funding choices, product roadmaps, and risk management practices in the near term.

Why it matters next

Regulatory clarity could enable more predictable product development and safer consumer experiences within the crypto-finance ecosystem. For lenders and exchanges, a clear taxonomy and jurisdictional split reduces the risk of misclassification and regulatory overlap, potentially easing cross-border participation and institutional involvement. For policymakers, the CLARITY Act offers a framework to reconcile innovation with oversight, aiming to prevent systemic risk while preserving competitive, diverse financial services in the digital asset space.

This article was originally published as Stablecoin Yield: White House Adviser Says Banks Shouldn’t Fear on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Key Insights

Warren questions SEC case dismissals, warning politics may be shaping crypto enforcement and investor protection.

SEC Chair Atkins defends a shift away from lawsuits, prioritizing fraud prevention and clearer regulatory guidance.

Senate clash highlights divide: clearer crypto laws vs stricter enforcement to protect markets and innovation.

Senate Hearing Turn Into a Crypto Flashpoint

A heated Capitol Hill hearing on February 12 thrust US crypto regulation into the spotlight as Senator Elizabeth Warren challenged Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Paul Atkins over the agency’s recent enforcement decisions.

 

WARREN CALLS OUT TRUMP’S SEC OVER CRYPTO DONORS!

Sen. Elizabeth Warren ( @ewarren ) grilled SEC Chair Paul Atkins ( @SECPaulSAtkins ) over dropped cases against major crypto firms tied to Donald Trump’s ( @realDonaldTrump ) inauguration.

New data shows sharp declines in SEC… https://t.co/MAZx9QxpnA pic.twitter.com/PIbQvlzl4y

— BSCN (@BSCNews) February 13, 2026

Warren directly questioned why several investigations into major crypto firms were dropped, particularly those connected to companies that financially supported Donald Trump’s inauguration. She argued the timing raised serious concerns about political influence and investor protection.

Atkins rejected the allegations, saying the SEC is moving away from “regulation by enforcement” and back toward its core mandate: preventing fraud, protecting investors, and maintaining fair markets. He insisted previous leadership relied too heavily on lawsuits instead of clear guidance.

Is SEC Enforcement Really Declining?

Warren cited public statistics suggesting enforcement has slowed:

Securities offering cases fell 10.64% from 2024 to 2025

Investment adviser actions dropped 23.71%

Broker-dealer cases declined 29.51%

Independent research also reported fewer settlements in fiscal 2025. However, Atkins countered that final annual data has not yet been released and argued the agency is prioritizing fraud over technical registration violations.

Supporters say the shift corrects regulatory overreach seen under former Chair Gary Gensler. Critics warn fewer actions could weaken accountability in the digital asset market.

Registration Violations or Innovation Barriers?

Central to the debate is whether unregistered token offerings automatically constitute misconduct. Crypto companies have long argued unclear securities definitions made compliance difficult.

Atkins supports legislation similar to the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, which would divide oversight between the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. He compared the past environment to innovators stuck between two competing regulators.

Warren disagreed, warning reduced oversight could usher in a “golden age of fraud.”

Could Politics Be Influencing Crypto Policy?

Warren highlighted dismissed cases involving major exchanges including Kraken, Coinbase, Gemini, and Binance, noting their financial ties to inauguration events. She also questioned dropped actions tied to executives who later received presidential clemency.

Atkins maintained pardons do not erase civil liability and emphasized that fraud investigations continue regardless of industry.

Conclusion

The battle discloses a larger policy divide: is a more explicit legislation more crucial in fostering innovativeness or is weaker enforcement more likely to hurt investors. The future of the United States regulation of digital assets may be determined by the final effect of Congress discussing crypto-market-structure legislation.

This article was originally published as Warren vs Trump’s SEC: U.S. Senate Clash Over Crypto Policy on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Key Insights

UK Treasury chose HSBC Orion to test blockchain issuance and settlement for digital gilts in a controlled environment.

The DIGIT pilot targets near real-time settlement and lower operational costs across the UK sovereign bond market.

Parallel regulatory scrutiny continues as UK authorities monitor crypto-linked ETN access for retail investors.

UK Treasury has announced that HSBC is the platform provider to its Digital Gilt Instrument (DIGIT) pilot. The ruling upholds the proposal of the government to modernize the issue of sovereign debt issuance through distributed-ledger technology. Officials confirmed the appointment on February 12, 2026, following a competitive procurement process launched in late 2025.

NEW: 2026 is marking the year of “Operationalizing Digital Debt” as the UK Treasury and HSBC move to tokenize Great Britain’s sovereign bonds.

Aims to test on-chain settlement and over-the-counter trading capabilities. pic.twitter.com/QReRyBCLss

— Nathan Jeffay (@NathanOnCrypto) February 12, 2026

The pilot will run within a regulated sandbox. It will allow authorities and market participants to test how digital gilts function across issuance, trading, and settlement. Policymakers expect the trial to provide operational evidence before any wider market rollout.

HSBC Orion Selected for DIGIT Pilot

HSBC will deploy its Orion blockchain platform as the core infrastructure for the DIGIT initiative. Orion already supports multiple large-scale digital bond issuances across Europe and Asia. These include sterling-denominated and green bond transactions for public-sector issuers.

The Treasury intends to make gilts digitally native through DIGIT instead of being tokenized replicas. The platform will enable the use of on-chain settlement that can reduce the settlement period of days to minutes. This model could also minimize reconciliation of intermediaries.

The pilot is consistent with the overall capital markets approach of the government. In 2024, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced an intention to bring about the use of DLT in the UK gilt market. The DIGIT trial will be a pragmatic move in that direction, and existing regulatory control will be maintained.

Market Context and Regulatory Signals

Blockchain-based bond settlement can improve transparency and operational efficiency. Market participants can track ownership changes directly on a shared ledger. This structure may also widen participation by lowering technical barriers for investors and dealers.

The DIGIT announcement follows increased regulatory interest in digital asset exposure. It has been reported that Trading 212 enabled UK retail investors to access crypto-linked exchange-traded notes without appropriate approval. The regulators insist that firms must possess certain authorization to provide such products based on debentures.

In October 2025, the UK regulators removed a ban on retail crypto ETNs that existed since the 19th century. Regulators have since increased the level of supervision to keep the firms accountable to the rules of conduct. Together, these developments show a dual approach: encouraging financial innovation while maintaining strict market controls.

This article was originally published as UK Appoints HSBC for Blockchain-Based Digital Gilt Pilot on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

The Netherlands’ lower chamber moved a sweeping capital-gains plan forward on Thursday, proposing a 36% tax on savings and most liquid assets, including cryptocurrencies. The bill cleared the House of Representatives with 93 lawmakers voting in favor, meeting and surpassing the threshold of 75 required to advance the measure. It would apply regardless of whether the assets are sold, extending to savings accounts, crypto holdings, most equity investments and gains from interest-bearing instruments. If the Senate signs off, the policy would take effect in the 2028 tax year. Critics argue the plan risks driving capital out of the Netherlands as investors seek jurisdictions with more favorable tax conditions. The discussion comes amid a broader global conversation about crypto taxation and how unrealized gains should be treated for high-net-worth and retail investors alike. The Dutch tally, published by the House, confirms the legislative momentum behind the proposal.

Key takeaways

The bill would impose a 36% capital-gains tax on savings and most liquid investments, explicitly including cryptocurrencies, with the tax levied even if assets are not disposed of.

The measure advanced after a 93-to-what-it-took vote in the Dutch House, surpassing the 75-vote threshold to proceed, signaling strong political alignment in favor of the reform.

Enactment hinges on Senate approval; if passed, the policy would apply beginning with the 2028 tax year, giving policymakers and investors time to prepare for the transition and for further details to emerge on implementation.

Critics warn the proposal could trigger capital flight from the Netherlands to jurisdictions with lower tax burdens, drawing on historical examples where similar levies spurred relocation of entrepreneurship and investment activity.

Analysts and industry figures have offered stark projections about the long-term impact on wealth accumulation, including widely cited calculations showing substantial reductions in compound growth under an unrealized-gains tax regime; comparisons to other tax debates in major markets underscore the broader risk environment for crypto and tech capital.

Tickers mentioned:

Sentiment: Bearish

Market context: The Netherlands’ proposal sits within a wider European and global dialogue on crypto taxation, where authorities weigh revenue needs against innovation incentives. As tax authorities assess how unrealized gains should be treated, the Dutch plan adds to considerations around how digital-asset holdings are accounted for in personal and investment taxation, echoing debates across the EU about consistency, enforcement, and the boundaries of capital taxation in a digital era.

Why it matters

The central premise — taxing unrealized gains on a broad swath of assets, including cryptocurrencies — marks a notable shift in how governments might approach wealth and investment in an era of rapid digital-asset adoption. Proponents argue that a real-time tax on gains helps address perceived inequities in how passive wealth is taxed versus earned income, potentially increasing public revenue to fund social and infrastructure initiatives. Yet, the immediate reaction from market participants and crypto executives has been skeptical, raising concerns about distortions to investment decisions and the long-run competitiveness of the Netherlands as a home for startups and asset management.

Analysts highlighted the unintended consequences of such a policy. Denis Payre, co-founder of logistics firm Kiala, invoked a historical parallel, noting that France’s experience with an earlier capital-sweep proposal led to a pronounced exodus of entrepreneurs. The sentiment among several industry observers echoed this caution, with crypto market analyst Michaël van de Poppe describing the proposal as counterproductive and predicting a material shift of capital to more favorable environments. The underlying critique is that high tax rates on unrealized gains could dampen risk appetite and deter early-stage capital formation, especially for innovative sectors where growth often hinges on reinvested profits rather than realized gains.

Beyond the Netherlands, the broader economic calculus is clear: tax policy can have a measurable impact on how wealth compounds over decades. For instance, a widely cited hypothetical scenario contrasts outcomes with and without unrealized-gains taxation. Starting with 10,000 euros and contributing 1,000 euros monthly for 40 years, one study suggested the pre-tax outcome might reach around 3.32 million euros, whereas applying a 36% unrealized gains tax would reduce the final tally to roughly 1.89 million euros, a gap of about 1.435 million euros. While such projections depend on many assumptions, they illustrate how timing and recognition of gains influence long-term wealth accumulation, particularly for asset classes that can experience both rapid appreciation and volatility.

The policy also lands in the context of a U.S. debate around wealth taxes and crypto regulation. California, for example, has faced controversy over proposals to impose wealth taxes on billionaires, sparking a broader discourse about the balance between tax fairness and the incentives for innovation. While the Dutch measure focuses on unrealized gains across a wide array of assets, the parallel debates illustrate a growing global sensitivity to how digital assets are taxed and how such tax rules interact with entrepreneurship and capital formation.

As investors digest these signals, the crypto community has echoed concerns about the practicalities of enforcing a 36% rate on assets that can be volatile and illiquid, and about how such taxation affects portfolio strategies, cross-border activity, and the flow of capital to jurisdictions deemed more crypto-friendly. The discussion points to a broader trend where policymakers are still navigating the line between revenue-generation aims and the need to sustain a supportive environment for innovation and decentralized finance.

What to watch next

Whether the Dutch Senate approves the bill and whether amendments alter the scope or rate of the proposed tax.

How the government and tax authorities define and enforce unrealized gains on a diverse set of assets, including cryptocurrencies.

Potential investor behavior in response to the policy, including any observed shifts to foreign domiciliation or cross-border holdings.

Any forthcoming data or studies assessing the macroeconomic impact of the reform on investment, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the Netherlands.

Broader EU considerations on crypto taxation and cross-border consistency as other member states weigh similar approaches.

Sources & verification

Tweep: Dutch House tally page showing the vote threshold and tally details for the bill (dossier 36748; id 2025Z09723). Verify the official tally and the threshold requirement here: https://www.tweedekamer.nl/kamerstukken/wetsvoorstellen/detail?dossier=36748&id=2025Z09723#wetgevingsproces

Investing Visuals projection comparing compound growth with and without unrealized gains tax over 40 years. See the analysis referenced in coverage of the proposal’s long-term effects: https://x.com/InvestingVisual/status/2022221938840441335

Statements from Denis Payre on the potential capital flight risk associated with such a tax proposal: https://x.com/DenisPayre/status/2022… (X post linked in coverage)

Commentary from Michaël van de Poppe critiquing the plan: https://x.com/CryptoMichNL/status/2022209120322121928

California’s wealth-tax discussion as a comparative reference in crypto regulation debates: https://cointelegraph.com/news/california-billionaire-tax-crypto-executives-slam

Netherlands advances 36% capital gains tax on savings and crypto

The House of Representatives’ decision to push the 36% capital gains tax proposal forward marks a pivotal moment in how the Netherlands could tax a broad spectrum of wealth. The measure targets not only traditional savings but also a wide range of liquid assets, explicitly including crypto assets, and would tax gains even when assets remain unrealized. The bill’s fate now rests with the Senate, and the clock is set for a 2028 effective date should the upper chamber approve the legislation in its final form. The political calculus surrounding this proposal underscores a broader concern among investors and industry observers: will such a tax regime dampen the country’s appeal as a hub for crypto and tech entrepreneurship, or can it be calibrated in a way that sustains public revenue without stifling innovation?

https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

This article was originally published as Dutch House of Representatives Advances Controversial 36% Tax Law on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Anchorage Digital, Kamino, and Solana Company are piloting a structure that could ease a longtime friction between traditional finance and DeFi: the ability to borrow against staked tokens without moving assets out of regulated custody. The collaboration expands Anchorage’s Atlas collateral management platform by integrating Kamino, a Solana-based decentralized lending protocol, with a framework that keeps collateral in custodial control. Solana (SOL) ((CRYPTO: SOL)) sits at the center of the arrangement, as the Solana Company treasury—an on-chain asset pool backed by Pantera Capital and Summer Capital—provides a tangible anchor for the program. The goal is to give financial institutions liquidity without forcing them to relinquish staking rewards or move assets into smart contracts that may carry higher regulatory or operational risk.

Key takeaways

Atlas’s collateral management is being extended to support native staking positions, enabling lenders to use staked SOL as collateral while assets remain in Anchorage’s custody.

Anchorage acts as collateral manager, setting loan-to-value ratios and margin requirements, and performing liquidation if necessary, removing the direct on-chain custody burden from regulated entities.

The involved treasury, Solana Company, holds a large SOL position and participates in governance and risk disclosures through its custodial framework and public partnerships.

The move unfolds amid a broader regulatory debate in the United States around DeFi, with the CLARITY Act aiming to clarify jurisdiction and standards for digital-asset activities.

Industry groups warn that early draft language does not fully distinguish between centralized intermediaries and decentralized protocols, adding a layer of regulatory risk to institutional adoption.

Tickers mentioned: $SOL

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The development mirrors growing institutional interest in DeFi-enabled liquidity while regulators weigh how to apply traditional securities and banking rules to on-chain lending and custody models.

Why it matters

The Anchorage-Kamino-Solana Company arrangement represents a tangible path for institutions to engage with decentralized lending markets without altering their custody and compliance posture. By keeping the collateral in segregated, regulated custody at Anchorage Digital Bank, lenders can maintain certainty around asset segregation, reporting, and risk controls that are typically required for regulated entities. The model reduces a historical hurdle: moving assets into on-chain, non-custodial environments that can complicate lending approvals, risk management, and auditability for banks and asset managers.

From a risk-management perspective, Anchorage’s role as collateral manager—determining loan-to-value caps, margin calls, and potential liquidations—adds a familiar, governance-backed framework to on-chain lending. It gives institutions a governance layer that complements Kamino’s DeFi lending markets, potentially expanding the universe of assets that institutions are comfortable using as collateral. The custody-first approach aims to preserve staking rewards, which for SOL holders can mean ongoing yield while accessing liquidity. This is particularly salient for large treasuries such as Solana Company, which has built a sizable SOL position and participates in ecosystem funding and governance through its holdings.

Regulators, on the other hand, watch closely. The CLARITY Act, which seeks to establish clearer jurisdiction and regulatory standards for digital assets, has become a focal point in policy debates. While supporters argue the bill would reduce uncertainty for market participants, critics counter that it does not fully delineate how decentralized protocols, developers, and governance frameworks should be treated under the law. The tension is evident in industry discussions and public commentary, underscoring that even innovative custody-friendly DeFi solutions must operate within an evolving regulatory landscape. In this context, the Anchorage-Kamino-Solana Company collaboration can be seen as a practical test case: it demonstrates what regulated institutions are willing to try, and where policy gaps may need to be filled to broaden safe participation.

Solana Company’s position—reported to be one of the largest SOL-based treasuries—adds another layer of credibility to the experiment. Its holdings, and the associated disclosures, underscore the willingness of specialized treasury teams to explore on-chain lending as a liquidity tool, provided that custodial safeguards remain intact. The project’s public materials also point to Solana’s ecosystem ambitions and the role of strategic treasury management in supporting on-chain liquidity without destabilizing staking yields or governance processes.

Solana Company is the second-largest SOL-based digital asset treasury, holding 2.3 million SOL. Source: CoinGecko

The technical structure hinges on integrating Kamino’s lending protocol with Atlas’s collateral framework. Under the program, a loan would be issued against natively staked SOL, but the actual SOL remains in Anchorage’s segregated custody. That separation matters because it preserves the institution’s regulatory, accounting, and risk-management controls while granting access to liquidity through Kamino’s on-chain markets. Anchorage’s oversight includes monitoring collateral value relative to loan size, maintaining margin requirements, and triggering liquidations if risk thresholds are breached. This model avoids the conventional requirement for institutions to transfer assets into smart-contract-based vaults, a sticking point that has historically limited regulated participation in DeFi lending markets.

The integration was announced in a period when Solana’s ecosystem, including its treasury vehicles, has been under scrutiny for both performance and risk. The Solana ecosystem’s public-facing information notes that the Solana Company treasury holds a substantial stake in SOL, reinforcing the relevance of this development to how large on-chain holders think about liquidity and risk. This event aligns with broader industry interest in on-chain lending, especially where custody remains in regulated environments. For market participants, the arrangement signals a potential template for expanding institutional DeFi exposure without eroding the protections and oversight that banks and trust companies emphasize.

What to watch next

Regulatory clarity progress on the CLARITY Act and related DeFi governance provisions, including any committee votes or amendments that clarify custody vs. on-chain lending.

Milestones in the Atlas-Kamino integration, such as go-live dates, onboarding of initial institutional users, and risk-management enhancements.

Solana Company’s ongoing SOL portfolio disclosures and any new risk disclosures tied to staking yields and on-chain liquidity use.

Updates from Anchorage Digital Bank on custody controls, compliance reporting, and risk-management metrics as more institutions engage with the structure.

Sources & verification

Anchorage Digital’s expansion of Atlas collateral management through Kamino integration with Solana Company’s treasury.

Solana Company treasury data and public disclosures via CoinGecko.

CLARITY Act overview and DeFi market-structure discussions.

Public policy discussions and industry meetings surrounding DeFi oversight, including high-level regulatory engagement by the Trump administration.

Market reaction and key details

The collaboration between Anchorage Digital, Kamino, and Solana Company illustrates how institutions may bridge custody-grade risk controls with DeFi liquidity pools. By enabling native staking positions to serve as collateral without a custody transfer, the program could unlock new liquidity channels for regulated entities. The emphasis on collateral management, risk controls, and segregated custody is consistent with a broader trend: institutions seeking to participate in on-chain lending while preserving traditional compliance and reporting regimes. The Solana ecosystem’s treasury dynamics, including Solana Company’s substantial SOL holdings, will be watched closely to see how risk disclosures evolve as the program expands. For practitioners, the approach could inform future collaborations that pair regulated custody with decentralized markets, potentially shaping how banks, asset managers, and corporate treasuries view DeFi liquidity tools.

Key figures and next steps

The project’s practical implications hinge on governance, custody risk controls, and the speed at which regulated institutions feel comfortable expanding their DeFi participation. If the pilot proves scalable and appropriately regulated, it may pave the way for broader adoption of staking-backed liquidity facilities that keep assets under regulated custody while granting on-chain access to lending markets. Observers will be watching for formal go/no-go decisions from participating institutions, any changes to Atlas collateral parameters, and additional asset classes considered for similar custody-preserving lending structures.

This article was originally published as Anchorage, Kamino Let Firms Borrow Against SOL Without Moving Custody on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) kicked off Friday’s session with a modest smile, boosted by a softer-than-expected January CPI print that renewed appetite for risk assets. Traders priced in cooler inflation while keeping a wary eye on the path of policy, with the largest cryptocurrency carving a path toward notable resistance as the CPI data circulated. At one point, BTC rose by as much as 4% intraday, with the benchmark token trading near the $69,000 region on Bitstamp as traders assessed how the inflation backdrop could shape Federal Reserve expectations in the near term.

Key takeaways

Bitcoin surged on the back of a January CPI print that cooled beyond expectations, lifting BTC/USD toward the $69,000 level on Bitstamp and signaling renewed momentum in the short run.

Core CPI matched estimates at 2.5% while the overall CPI printed 2.4%, both softer than anticipated, fueling a broad risk-on swing across macro assets.

Market odds of aggressive Fed easing remained limited, with CME FedWatch showing slim chances of a rate cut at the March meeting, complicating the path for a sustained breakout.

Analysts highlighted a confluence of technical references around the 68,000–69,000 area, including the old 2021 all-time high and the 200-week EMA, as a potential higher-low anchor for BTC.

Gold climbed toward a symbolic milestone while the US dollar index attempted a recovery after the CPI release, underscoring a mixed but constructive macro backdrop for risk assets.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Positive. The CPI surprise propelled Bitcoin higher, with daily gains peaking near 4% and the price testing the $69,000 vicinity on major venues such as Bitstamp.

Market context: The inflation print fed into a broader narrative where macro assets showed a tempered response to cooling inflation, even as rate-cut expectations remained guarded and positioned around the mid-year horizon. Traders watched for durably slowing inflation signals to justify an acceleration in risk-taking, while acknowledging that policymakers may still stride cautiously given a resilient labor market and evolving growth dynamics.

Why it matters

The January CPI outcome reinforces a delicate balance in which inflation is trending lower, but policymakers are unlikely to rush the rate-cut cycle. The data echo a pattern observed in recent weeks: inflation metrics are trending toward multi-year lows, yet the Federal Reserve’s reaction function remains data-dependent. For BTC and the broader crypto market, softer inflation can translate into improved liquidity and a more forgiving risk environment, which historically tends to favor speculative assets and risk-sensitive sectors.

From a technical standpoint, traders are watching key price zones that have previously served as turning points. The 68,000–69,000 zone is notable because it intersects with the 2021 all-time high and the 200-week exponential moving average (EMA), a level analysts have cited as an anchor for potential higher-lows in the near term. Several market participants described BTC as consolidating in a potential falling-wedge pattern, a setup that could precede another leg higher if momentum builds. A recent update from a prominent trader noted that an initial breakout attempt at around the 68,000 level faced resistance, reinforcing the idea that the next meaningful move would likely be defined by how the market handles that zone.

Beyond BTC, macro gold also flirted with significant levels, highlighting a broader risk-on mood among non-crypto assets as the CPI narrative evolved. The U.S. dollar index found some footing after the initial CPI dip, a dynamic that can influence risk appetite across asset classes, including digital assets. In this environment, BTC’s performance could act as a barometer for market demand for risk assets and for investors seeking hedges or diversifiers amid evolving macro signals.

One notable thread in the commentary around the CPI release was the consideration of future Fed policy moves. While some market observers argued that a rate cut could become more plausible if inflation continues to ease, others cautioned that a single data print does not alter the central bank’s reaction function overnight. A widely cited dashboard showed that probability of a March rate cut remained in the minority, underscoring the challenge for crypto bulls to sustain a sustained breakout without clearer signs of easing monetary policy. In a related thread, a market observer referenced a lower-bound view on policy shifts, suggesting that the inflation trajectory would need to demonstrate sustained deceleration before a meaningful shift in rate expectations could be priced in. Investors also weighed a perspective opposing the surprise: that a temporary CPI softness might simply reflect statistical quirks rather than a durable downward trend.

For traders who have been watching the narrative unfold, the CPI surprise did not fully resolve the tug-of-war between risk-on optimism and the structural caution that has characterized crypto markets for much of the past year. While BTC’s intraday rally underscored renewed enthusiasm, many participants stressed that the long-term trajectory would hinge on the Fed’s path and on the sequencing of economic data in the coming weeks. A closing thought from a market commentator who tracks inflation data and policy expectations noted that, even with a favorable inflation print, the real test lies in whether inflation can stay on a downward trajectory long enough to alter policy expectations meaningfully.

The CPI data’s impact on the market narrative can be glimpsed through the lens of the related coverage around inflation dynamics and policy. For readers seeking concrete context, the CPI release is documented by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the associated commentary on how core and headline readings evolved. The market’s reaction to the data is also shaped by how traders interpret the probability of future rate actions, as reflected in tools that gauge Fed expectations. Additionally, analysts cited external inflation trackers and independent assessments to illustrate the nuanced view of inflation risk in the current environment. For a broader sense of sentiment, the community’s discussions surrounding the CPI data and Fed policy provide a snapshot of how this turning point is perceived by traders and researchers alike, including conversations that reference alternative inflation metrics as a lens to evaluate CPI outcomes.

The narrative also includes perspectives from traders active in social channels, where analysts often cross-reference inflation data with on-chain signals and technical indicators. A notable thread tied to the CPI release highlighted the idea that the CPI decline, while supportive, is not a decisive turn; rather, it is part of a broader sequence that could unfold across the next several weeks as the market calibrates its expectations for policy, liquidity, and macro risk appetite. The ongoing dialogue among market participants underscores the importance of keeping a close watch on how the inflation data evolves and how policy guidance evolves in response, as those dynamics will continue to influence BTC’s trajectory and the crypto market more broadly.

For readers who want to explore the underlying data themselves, the CPI release and the market’s interpretation of it are widely covered in real-time feeds and official releases. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides the primary figures, while market data platforms and analysis from research shops offer additional context on how these numbers translate into rate expectations, liquidity, and risk sentiment. In the eyes of many traders, the CPI print is less a singular event than a datapoint in an ongoing process—one that will shape the tempo and nature of crypto market movements in the weeks to come.

TradingView BTCUSD chart shows the intraday velocity, while the CPI context remains anchored by the U.S. CPI release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a contemporaneous note, a widely circulated tweet from market analyst Andre Dragosch referenced Truflation’s sub-1% CPI readings as supporting evidence for a less aggressive inflation profile than some conventional measures imply. The exchange between traditional data and alternative inflation metrics continues to shape expectations around rate moves and cross-asset correlations.

In sum, the CPI surprise injected a tactical lift for Bitcoin, but the broader path remains a function of policy expectations, liquidity conditions, and the ongoing assessment of inflation trends. As the market digests the data, traders will be watching for a softening CPI to translate into a more explicit willingness to price in rate cuts—and with that, a more durable upside for BTC and the broader crypto complex.

Earlier coverage noted the delicate balance between momentum and resistance around the $68,000–$69,000 zone, a region that has historically defined the near-term tempo of BTC price action. The narrative continues to evolve as macro conditions, policy signals, and on-chain fundamentals interact in real time.

For additional context and data points discussed during the CPI reaction, see the related notes and coverage linked throughout this timeline, including references to the FedWatch tool and broader market commentary that has tracked the shifting probability of rate cuts in the March horizon.

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This article was originally published as Bitcoin Tops $69K as CPI Slows, Fed Rate-Cut Odds Stay Low on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Three suspects were apprehended in France after a reported home-invasion targeted at a senior Binance France executive, with the parent company confirming that one employee was the victim. The incident unfolded in the Val-de-Marne area around 7:00 am CET, when armed intruders allegedly forced entry into an apartment and sought information leading to the head of Binance France. Police later recovered two mobile devices as the suspects fled. A separate attempt to break into a second residence in Hauts-de-Seine occurred roughly two hours later, culminating in arrests and the recovery of a vehicle linked to the case. Binance said it is cooperating with authorities and has intensified security measures to protect staff and families during an ongoing investigation.

Key takeaways

In Val-de-Marne, three masked assailants forced entry into a resident’s home around 7:00 am CET, then sought directions to the Binance France head’s address and fled with two mobile phones.

Two hours after the first incident, authorities arrested the suspects during a second home-invasion attempt in Hauts-de-Seine; investigators recovered the stolen phones and a vehicle.

Binance confirmed the event to Cointelegraph, stating the employee and their family are safe and that the company is working closely with local law enforcement while enhancing security measures.

The episode arrives amid broader security concerns in the crypto space, where wrench-attacks—physical assaults linked to crypto-related schemes—have surged in 2025, particularly in Europe and France.

Binance’s co-founder Yi He publicly thanked French police for their swift response, underscoring the collaboration between crypto firms and law enforcement in addressing real-world risks.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The incident sits within a year of rising wrench-attacks against crypto investors and executives. CertiK documented a 75% increase in wrench attacks during 2025, with 72 verified cases globally. France recorded the highest number of incidents in 2025 (19), while Europe accounted for about 40% of global cases, highlighting a regional risk pattern as crypto activity expands across the continent.

Market context: The broader security environment for crypto companies is increasingly shaped by physical risk and targeted offenses, reinforcing the need for dedicated on-site security protocols and law-enforcement collaboration as firms expand in Europe.

Why it matters

The Binance France incident illustrates how crypto operations, even behind seemingly large organizations, face vulnerabilities beyond cyber threats. Physical security failures can expose executives and families to immediate danger, underscoring the importance of robust, end-to-end security planning for firms with regional leadership and critical operations. Binance’s response—expressing concern for staff welfare, cooperating with authorities, and enhancing security measures—signals a commitment to risk management that extends beyond digital assets and into real-world protection for personnel.

From a market and adoption perspective, incidents like this highlight that the crypto sector remains subject to traditional crime vectors even as the technology and markets mature. While there is no direct implication for asset prices from a single home invasion, the event reinforces the ongoing demand for secure governance, physical security protocols, and proactive collaboration with law enforcement across jurisdictions as regulatory and consumer scrutiny intensifies.

The public acknowledgment from Binance’s leadership—specifically a message from Yi He expressing gratitude for police efforts—reflects how the ecosystem increasingly relies on coordinated responses to safety incidents. That coordination can influence how crypto firms profile risk and allocate resources, potentially shaping future security investments and crisis-management protocols across regional teams.

What to watch next

Official police updates on the investigation progress and any additional arrests or charges related to the two incidents.

Binance’s security posture announcements or new measures implemented for employees in France and other regions.

Any regulatory or policy developments in France or Europe addressing physical security for crypto firms and executives.

Follow-up reporting on related wrench-attack cases in Europe to assess whether the incidents represent a broader pattern or are isolated events.

Public statements from Binance France regarding ongoing risk assessments and collaboration with local authorities after the incident.

Sources & verification

Binance’s formal confirmation to Cointelegraph regarding the home-invasion incident and the ongoing police investigation.

RTL’s reporting on the initial attack in Val-de-Marne, including details about the home entry and subsequent arrest in Hauts-de-Seine.

CertiK’s analysis noting a 75% rise in wrench-attacks in 2025 and the distribution of incidents across Europe and France.

Cointelegraph coverage of related crypto-crime developments in France, including arrests tied to crypto-related ransom cases.

Yi He’s X post acknowledging the incident and praising the French police unit Brigade de Répression du Banditisme.

What the announcement changes

Binance’s incident report underscores the evolving risk landscape for crypto executives operating in Europe. While the incident does not appear to affect market liquidity or exchange operations directly, it reinforces the need for rigorous physical-security protocols, crisis communication plans, and ongoing collaboration with law enforcement. For investors and users, the episode is a reminder that the sector’s growth is accompanied by real-world threats that require comprehensive risk management practices by firms and stronger protective measures for personnel in high-visibility roles.

Key figures and next steps

Authorities’ ongoing work will determine whether the two Val-de-Marne and Hauts-de-Seine cases are linked beyond the vehicle recovery and stolen devices. Binance’s leadership has stated that staff safety remains a top priority, and the company is pursuing enhanced security measures. The collaboration between Binance and French law enforcement, including high-profile units, will likely shape how the firm communicates future incidents and implements security improvements across its European footprint.

What to watch next

Updates on the investigation from French police authorities (cases tied to the initial home-invasion and the second attempted entry).

Details on the security enhancements Binance plans to deploy for its France team and regional offices.

Regulatory responses in France and the broader European Union concerning physical-security standards for crypto firms.

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This article was originally published as Binance Confirms Targeted Employee; Three Arrested in France Break-In on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

A Virginia federal court handed a 20-year prison sentence to Ramil Ventura Palafox, the chief executive of Praetorian Group International (PGI), for leading a crypto investment scheme that prosecutors say defrauded tens of thousands of investors out of roughly $200 million. Court records describe a carefully orchestrated Ponzi scheme that promised daily returns of up to 3 percent from Bitcoin trading, only to funnel new money to earlier participants while fabricating apparent gains through an online portal.

Key takeaways

The judge sentenced PGI’s founder, 61-year-old Ramil Ventura Palafox, to 20 years in prison after convictions on wire fraud and money laundering charges tied to a $200 million crypto investment scam.

The scheme allegedly attracted more than $201 million from December 2019 to October 2021, including at least 8,198 Bitcoin (BTC) valued at about $171.5 million at the time; victims suffered losses of at least $62.7 million.

Regulators say PGI claimed to trade Bitcoin at scale and to generate steady daily profits, but prosecutors contended the trading activity could not support the promised returns.

Palafox allegedly used a multi-level marketing structure and paid referrals, while misrepresenting trading performance to lure new participants.

The case combines criminal action from the Department of Justice with civil action from the Securities and Exchange Commission, underscoring cross-border enforcement and ongoing scrutiny of crypto-related fraud.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC

Sentiment: Neutral

Market context: The sentencing arrives amid sustained regulatory focus on crypto investment platforms and crypto-enabled fraud. Authorities have signaled that the combination of alleged misrepresentation, aggressive fundraising, and the promise of consistent, high daily returns increases investor risk and elevates enforcement priorities. The case also reflects ongoing efforts to align crypto-related schemes with traditional securities and consumer-protection regimes, highlighting the challenges of policing cross-border online operations as crypto markets remain volatile and subject to rapid shifts in investor sentiment.

Why it matters

The PGI case illustrates how fraudsters continue to exploit the aura of professional crypto trading to attract money from retail investors. By presenting a façade of sophisticated AI-driven or large-scale Bitcoin trading, the scheme preyed on hopes of reliable, outsized returns and leveraged a multi-level referral structure to accelerate capital inflows. The financial footprint—tens of thousands of investors and hundreds of millions of dollars—shows the scale at which these operations can operate before regulators intervene.

From a regulatory perspective, the outcome reinforces the co-operation between criminal and civil agencies in tackling crypto-enabled fraud. The Department of Justice’s criminal case, paired with the SEC’s civil action filed later, demonstrates a multi-front approach to address both deception and improper fundraising in digital asset markets. The interplay between criminal penalties and potential restitution signals that victims may pursue recovery through court-administered processes, while enforcement actions may deter future misconduct by raising the stakes for misrepresentation and misappropriation of investor funds.

For investors and builders in the crypto space, the PGI case underscores a persistent risk layer: schemes can mimic legitimate trading operations, including claims of AI-powered platforms and guaranteed returns, even as real trading volumes and profits fail to materialize. Trust remains a critical asset in this industry, and cases like this one press the importance of due diligence, transparent performance reporting, and robust compliance programs for operators who manage other people’s money.

What to watch next

Restitution processes: Regulators have indicated that victims may be eligible for restitution; follow communications from the U.S. Attorney’s Office regarding claims submissions and timelines.

Civil case developments: The SEC’s civil complaint may yield further settlements or enforcement actions related to misrepresented trading activities and the claimed AI-driven platform.

Cross-border enforcement updates: The case’s international elements—such as activity in the United Kingdom and other jurisdictions—could prompt additional regulatory coordination and potential asset tracing outcomes.

Regulatory signaling: The convergence of criminal and civil actions in crypto fraud cases is likely to influence future policy discussions on crypto investment schemes, disclosure requirements, and investor protections.

Sources & verification

Department of Justice press release on the sentencing of Ramil Ventura Palafox for a $200 million crypto Ponzi scheme.

SEC civil complaint filed in April 2025 alleging misrepresentation of PGI’s trading activity and the use of new investor funds to pay earlier participants.

DOJ actions detailing charges in the Eastern District of Virginia and the cross-border enforcement that accompanied the case.

Information on the 2021 seizure of PGI’s website and related enforcement steps, indicating the global reach of the investigation.

Rewritten Article Body: Conviction underscores regulatory watch on crypto investment platforms

In a case that underscores the intensifying scrutiny of crypto-enabled investment fraud, a federal judge in Virginia handed down a 20-year prison sentence to Ramil Ventura Palafox, the founder and chief executive of Praetorian Group International (PGI). Prosecutors described the matter as a deliberate Ponzi scheme that lured tens of thousands of investors with promises of consistent daily gains from Bitcoin trading, a narrative that unfolds against a backdrop of growing regulatory focus on digital assets and investor protection.

According to the Department of Justice, the scheme operated between December 2019 and October 2021, drawing in more than $201 million from participants who believed they were backing a sophisticated trading enterprise. The government highlighted that the apparently robust performance—daily returns of up to 3 percent—was presented in a manner designed to reassure investors and sustain the inflow of new funds. Yet, prosecutors argued that the trading activity did not come close to supporting the promised returns, and that the apparent gains were often illusory, backed by funds from newer entrants rather than genuine profits.

The financial footprint of PGI’s operation was substantial. Investors poured in more than $201 million during the two-year window, and the case notes that at least 8,198 Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) were involved in the scheme, with the digital asset valued at roughly $171.5 million at the time. Victims’ losses were estimated at no less than $62.7 million, a figure that illustrates the real-world harm that can accompany fraud in crypto markets. The court and prosecutors described a pattern in which new investor money was shuffled to pay earlier participants, a hallmark of Ponzi dynamics that undermines trust in similarly structured ventures.

Court filings depict a troubling panorama of misrepresentation and perceived legitimacy. Palafox allegedly oversaw an online portal that displayed steady gains, creating the illusion that accounts were compounding reliably. The operation reportedly relied on a multi-level marketing framework, with referral incentives designed to broaden the pool of participants. In parallel, the government contended that these promotional claims masked the absence of actual trading capacity to generate the claimed profits, allowing the scheme to sustain itself for a period before regulators began to unravel the web of financial red flags.

From a personal-finance perspective, the case paints a stark picture of resource misallocation. Authorities allege that Palafox diverted investor funds to support a lavish lifestyle, including millions spent on luxury vehicles and high-end real estate, as well as substantial expenditures on penthouse suites and other discretionary purchases. In a demonstration of cross-border reach, prosecutors noted transfers that included at least $800,000 and 100 Bitcoin moved to a family member, highlighting the opportunistic use of assets beyond the U.S. jurisdiction for personal enrichment.

The legal strategy behind the case extended beyond criminal charges. In a parallel civil action, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed a complaint in April 2025 accusing Palafox of misrepresenting PGI’s Bitcoin trading activity and using new investor money to compensate earlier participants. The SEC alleged that PGI promoted an AI-powered trading platform and guaranteed daily returns despite lacking a foundation in real trading operations capable of producing such profits. The dual track of enforcement—criminal and civil—emphasizes a broader regulatory intolerance for schemes that blur the lines between technology-driven finance and fraudulent conduct.

The trajectory of the case also reflects the cross-border enforcement environment facing crypto fraud. Regulators seized PGI’s website in 2021, signaling early steps toward dismantling the operation and tracing its financial flows beyond U.S. borders. Authorities later extended their scrutiny into the United Kingdom, where related operations were shuttered, illustrating the global dimension of crypto fraud investigations and the need for international cooperation in asset tracing and restitution efforts.

Victims remain at the center of the proceedings, with restitution potentially available through the U.S. Attorney’s Office process. While the criminal sentence serves as a punitive measure, the civil action and related enforcement signals are aimed at recovering assets and deterring similar misconduct in the crypto space. The case stands as a cautionary tale for investors and a reminder to operators that regulatory and judicial systems are increasingly attentive to the nuances of crypto-based investment promises and the risks of opaque performance reporting.

This article was originally published as Crypto CEO Sentenced to 20 Years in $200M Bitcoin Ponzi Scheme on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Boerse Stuttgart Group, operator of one of Europe’s largest stock exchanges, is pursuing a strategic consolidation of its regulated digital asset activities with Tradias, a Frankfurt-based crypto trading firm. The move aims to accelerate the group’s push into institutional crypto markets by combining Boerse Stuttgart Digital’s custody, brokerage and trading capabilities with Tradias’ execution and BaFin-licensed securities trading operations. The combined entity, still subject to regulatory approvals, would bring together roughly 300 employees under a unified management team. While formal financial terms were not disclosed in the initial announcement, Bloomberg reported that Tradias could be valued at about €200 million, with the merged group potentially exceeding €500 million in enterprise value. The deal underscores a broader shift toward regulated, institution-facing crypto infrastructure in Europe, aided by MiCA, the EU framework for crypto-assets.

The merger is framed as a natural evolution for Boerse Stuttgart’s regulated crypto unit, which has built out a comprehensive platform for trading, custody and tokenized assets in compliance with the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The integration with Tradias is intended to extend the reach of this regulated backbone across Europe, enabling banks, brokers and other financial institutions to access a fully regulated crypto infrastructure under one umbrella. The announcement notes that the combined team will oversee services spanning brokerage, trading, custody, staking and tokenized assets, a suite designed to cover the entire value chain for institutional clients. In 2025, Boerse Stuttgart highlighted a surge in crypto trading volumes, signaling growing demand from institutions and an increasing contribution of digital assets to the group’s revenue. The leadership behind the merger expresses a bullish outlook on the sector’s trajectory and on the strategic advantages of scale in regulated markets.

The background of the deal includes Tradias’ status as a BaFin-licensed securities trading bank, a feature that aligns with Boerse Stuttgart Digital’s regulatory approach and its emphasis on a compliant crypto ecosystem. Tradias operates as the digital assets arm of Bankhaus Scheich, and its regulatory standing complements Boerse Stuttgart’s push to formalize a pan-European digital-asset platform capable of serving large-scale financial players. The two firms’ complementary strengths—Boerse Stuttgart Digital’s product suite and Tradias’ execution and licensing framework—are positioned to offer a more seamless, integrated experience for institutions seeking to deploy crypto strategies within established risk controls. As part of the strategic framing, Boerse Stuttgart Group chief executive Matthias Voelkel emphasized that the merger would drive consolidation and leadership across Europe’s crypto markets, noting that the combined entity would be better positioned to compete with other regulated platforms as institutional demand grows.

Within the discourse on regulated crypto markets, the deal sits at the intersection of technology, regulation and market structure. Boerse Stuttgart’s digital arm has been a steady contractor to the EU’s MiCA regime, providing trading, brokerage and custody services in line with the regulation’s requirements. The integration with Tradias is expected to accelerate the deployment of compliant crypto infrastructure at scale, potentially reducing the operational frictions that have long constrained institutional participation. The parties have kept financial terms private, but public signals about the valuation and scale of the combined group reinforce the sense that European players are wagering on a future where regulated, cross-border crypto services become a core element of traditional financial ecosystems.

“With the planned merger of Boerse Stuttgart Digital and Tradias, Boerse Stuttgart Group is driving the development and consolidation of the European crypto market,”

Voelkel’s remarks reflect a broader industry narrative in which established financial institutions seek to create end-to-end platforms that combine trading, custody and risk management for digital assets. The leadership of Tradias, led by founder Christopher Beck, has framed the merger as a step toward building a European champion with broader reach and deeper strategic capabilities. Beck stressed that the alliance would allow the two entities to cover the entire value chain for digital assets and to harness the strengths of both firms to accelerate market consolidation.

Beyond the immediate strategic benefits, the merger has implications for the European crypto ecosystem’s maturity. The combination of a regulated exchange operator and a BaFin-licensed securities trading bank is emblematic of a trend toward more integrated and regulated solutions, which could lower barriers to participation for banks and asset managers seeking regulated exposure to crypto markets. The regulatory backdrop—especially MiCA—will continue to shape how such entities structure their offerings, the kinds of products they can offer, and how they manage custody, staking and tokenized assets. In the context of 2025 regulatory developments, several commentators have highlighted how MiCA licensing frameworks may influence the design and distribution of crypto products, including the potential for more standardized governance and risk controls across borders. The ongoing shift toward regulated, institution-friendly models is consistent with the broader push to normalize crypto markets within mainstream financial systems.

Related: Denmark’s Danske Bank allows clients to buy Bitcoin and Ether ETPs

Tradias’ leadership has signaled that the merger would enable the two firms to expand their European footprint, leveraging their respective strengths to offer a more robust platform for institutional clients. Beck’s comments emphasize the goal of creating “a new European champion” with greater reach and operational depth that could accelerate consolidation in the sector. The strategic logic rests on combining Boerse Stuttgart Digital’s regulated product suite and custody capabilities with Tradias’ licensed market access and execution capabilities, potentially creating a more competitive, scalable and compliant ecosystem for digital-asset trading and custody across Europe.

The broader market context reinforces the strategic prudence of this move. The European crypto market has been evolving toward greater professionalization, with a growing emphasis on licensing, risk management and interoperability across borders. The MiCA framework is widely viewed as a driver of this shift, encouraging standardized practices and more predictable regulatory outcomes for participants. The proposed merger aligns with these dynamics, signaling a willingness among incumbents to invest in regulated infrastructures that can support institutional flows, wholesale trading and the custody of digital assets on a pan-European scale. The coming months will be crucial for the timeline and final terms, as regulatory approvals and integration milestones will determine how quickly the combined operation can begin delivering on its stated objectives.

Why it matters

The strategic union between Boerse Stuttgart Digital and Tradias could reshape how European institutions access crypto markets. By marrying regulated trading, custody and brokerage with a licensed execution platform, the merged entity could reduce the friction and compliance overhead that have historically limited institutional participation. This consolidation may also set a precedent for other European incumbents seeking to build comparable ecosystems, potentially accelerating the pace at which traditional financial services firms adopt and integrate digital-asset capabilities. The emphasis on tokenized assets and staking suggests a broader ambition to extend digital assets beyond simple trading to a more comprehensive asset-management framework that integrates with existing bank-grade risk controls.

From a user perspective, the deal promises continuity and scale. Banks and brokers seeking regulated access to crypto services could benefit from a more cohesive offering, including custody and settlement under a single governance framework. For digital-asset providers and fintechs, the merger highlights the value of partnerships with regulated institutions that can bridge retail and wholesale markets while maintaining high standards of compliance. The European landscape, long characterized by divergent national approaches, could gradually converge as more players align under MiCA-compliant models, reducing cross-border complexity and enabling more efficient capital deployment.

What to watch next

Regulatory approvals and the closing date of the merger, including any conditions placed by BaFin or other European authorities.

Integration milestones for Boerse Stuttgart Digital and Tradias, including the consolidation of tech platforms and onboarding of additional banks or brokers.

Rollout of expanded services, such as custody, staking and tokenized-assets offerings, to new European markets.

Any updates on the valuation, potential debt financing or equity arrangements tied to the transaction.

Sources & verification

Boerse Stuttgart Digital-Tradias merger press release (PDF): https://www.bsdigital.com/media/fucbehz4/20260213_en_boerse-stuttgart_digital_tradias.pdf

Bloomberg reporting on valuation: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-02-13/boerse-stuttgart-to-merge-crypto-arm-with-trading-firm-tradias

Tradias BaFin-licensed status: https://cointelegraph.com/news/tradias-bafin-license-expansion-2025

Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) overview referenced in coverage: https://cointelegraph.com/learn/articles/markets-in-crypto-assets-regulation-mica

Boerse Stuttgart growth and revenue context: https://cointelegraph.com/news/bourse-stock-exchange-25-percent-revenue-rise-crypto

European consolidation of regulated crypto services: what the merger means

This article was originally published as Boerse Stuttgart Digital, Tradias Merge to Build European Crypto Hub on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

ETHZilla, a crypto treasury firm that began life as a biotech venture, is pressing further into tokenized real-world assets. In January it pivoted to build a portfolio around on-chain representations of non-digital assets, and this week it unveiled Eurus Aero Token I, a tradable stake secured by two jet engines leased to a major U.S. airline. The tokenization initiative is being launched under ETHZilla Aerospace, the company’s new subsidiary. Each token is priced at $100 with a minimum purchase of 10 tokens, and the issuer targets an 11% return over the life of the leases, which extend into 2028. Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) has been a central part of its treasury strategy in recent years.

Key takeaways

ETHZilla launches Eurus Aero Token I via ETHZilla Aerospace, with the asset backing provided by two commercial jet engines leased to a leading U.S. carrier.

The offering sets a $100 price per token and requires a minimum purchase of 10 tokens, aiming for an 11% return through the end of the current engine leases in 2028.

The move marks a formal shift from a pure crypto treasury model toward tokenizing real-world assets that generate contractual cash flows.

ETHZilla acquired the two jet engines for a combined $12.2 million in January, following the sale of part of its Ether treasury the prior year.

Executives say the program broadens access to fractional ownership and demonstrates how blockchain can convert traditional asset classes into on-chain, tradable securities.

Tickers mentioned: $ETH

Market context: On-chain tokenization of real-world assets (RWAs) has been gaining traction as crypto firms seek yield opportunities beyond token prices and volatility. The ETHZilla initiative arrives as RWAs continue to attract institutional interest and as the broader market observes how regulated, cash-flow–backed tokens perform relative to traditional securities and crypto-native instruments.

Why it matters

The ETHZilla pivot illustrates a broader industry trend: crypto treasury firms expanding beyond pure digital assets toward structured products that deliver visible, contractually backed revenue. By tying ownership of physical engines to a blockchain-based token, ETHZilla is testing whether on-chain instruments can offer predictable cash flows while preserving liquidity and transparency for investors. For a subset of crypto enthusiasts and accredited investors, this approach promises a familiar risk/return profile—income from lease payments—wrapped in a tokenized wrapper that can be traded or held alongside other digital assets.

Observers note that tokenized aviation assets combine visible, contractual cash flows with the efficiency and programmability of blockchain. The two jet engines underpin a stream of lease income that, in theory, may appeal to investors seeking exposure to high-value industrial assets without owning the aircraft outright. ETHZilla chairman and CEO McAndrew Rudisill framed the offering as a way to “expand investment access and modernize fractional asset ownership in markets that have historically been available only to institutional credit and private equity.” In his view, the use of a token backed by engines leased to a major airline serves as a compelling proof point for applying blockchain infrastructure to asset classes with global demand and predictable revenue streams.

The enterprise has a history that underscores its strategy: ETHZilla began life as a biotech venture before pivoting to Ether accumulation and tokenized assets. The company disclosed a substantial Ether stake in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing, reporting hundreds of millions of dollars in value at the time, and then redirected capital toward physical assets and on-chain structures. This history highlights both the volatility of crypto treasuries and the growing experimentation across the sector to convert traditional assets into liquid, traceable, on-chain instruments.

At the same time, the broader market environment remains a mixed backdrop for RWAs. Industry observers point to a rising footprint of tokenized assets on blockchain networks, alongside ongoing regulatory scrutiny and evolving frameworks that could shape who can issue such tokens and under what conditions. The RWA market, including tokenized debt, receivables, and asset-backed securities, has seen a surge of interest as institutions seek yield opportunities outside equity and crypto price movements. Data aggregators show that hundreds of thousands of holders participate in on-chain RWAs, with billions of dollars reportedly on-chain, underscoring the potential reach of asset-backed tokens beyond traditional finance.

ETHZilla’s execution also highlights the practical dynamics of tokenized asset bring-to-market: the engines were acquired for $12.2 million in January as part of the company’s broader shift away from a pure ETH-hold approach toward asset-backed, on-chain offerings. The venture has signaled that future token offerings could include other asset classes, such as home and car loans, suggesting a pipeline that blends tangible collateral with transparent, blockchain-native distribution mechanisms. Industry commentary has suggested that tokenized RWAs could gain momentum in 2026 as emerging markets adopt formalized structures for capital formation and foreign investment, though execution risks—valuation sensitivity, lease covenants, custody, and regulatory constraints—remain salient considerations for investors.

As the project unfolds, ETHZilla’s own treasury position provides context for the risk/reward calculus of tokenized assets. The company’s strategic reserve data and public disclosures show a balancing act between on-chain liquidity and the need to preserve exposure to Ether as a potential long-term stabilizer or growth asset. The tension between holding Ether and deploying capital into tokenized assets reflects a broader question in crypto governance: how to optimize treasury strategy when tokenized opportunities promise both diversification and yield, but hinge on real-world performance and contractual enforcement.

What to watch next

Progress reports on Eurus Aero Token I performance, including lease cash flows and any collateralization updates.

Additional asset classes targeted for tokenization by ETHZilla, particularly home and car loans, and the regulatory steps required for those offerings.

Updates on ETHZilla Aerospace’s corporate structure, future engine acquisitions, and potential partnerships with other airlines or service providers.

Regulatory developments affecting tokenized RWAs, including disclosures, custody standards, and compliance requirements for on-chain asset-backed instruments.

Sources & verification

ETHZilla announces first-ever tradable tokenized aviation assets on Ethereum network secured by jet engines on lease with a leading US air carrier — PR Newswire (link in original text).

ETHZilla disclosed its Ether holdings in an SEC filing, including the size and average acquisition price of its ETH stash.

ETHZilla’s jet engine acquisition: two engines purchased for a combined $12.2 million in January, per the article corpus.

Tokenization push and broader RWAs context: RWA.xyz data indicating billions on-chain and hundreds of thousands of holders.

Related coverage and background on ETHZilla’s pivot and industry expectations for 2026–2028, including on-chain RWA trends and associated market commentary.

Market reaction and key details

The Eurus Aero Token I offering marks a notable step in the gradual convergence of aviation assets and blockchain technology. By attaching a direct business asset—two jet engines—to a tradable on-chain instrument, ETHZilla is testing whether the promise of liquidity, fractional ownership, and transparent revenue streams can coexist with the complexities of lease contracts, depreciation, maintenance reserves, and counterparties. If the structure proves resilient, it could pave the way for a broader ecosystem of asset-backed tokens tied to physical capital across sectors with robust cash flows and global demand.

Key figures and next steps

ETHZilla’s strategy hinges on converting contractual cash flows into liquid, on-chain instruments that investors can access with relative ease. The initial offering, priced at $100 per token and requiring a minimum purchase of 10 tokens, presents an explicit yield target of 11% over the lease horizon through 2028. The engines’ lease arrangement, the counterparty credit quality, and the ongoing maintenance and insurance terms will be critical inputs to the project’s actual performance and the token’s market acceptance. As the industry watches, ETHZilla’s next moves—whether it expands into additional asset classes or scales the aviation example—will be a bellwether for the broader viability of tokenized RWAs in a diversified crypto treasury framework.

What to verify

Readers can corroborate details in ETHZilla’s official disclosures and the referenced press materials, including the terms of the Eurus Aero Token I offering, the January engine purchase, and the SEC filing documenting the company’s Ether holdings. Market data from RWA.xyz and CoinGecko provides a snapshot of on-chain asset trends and the scale of the RWAs ecosystem. Additionally, primary sources such as the PR Newswire release and ETHZilla’s public statements offer direct insights into strategy and execution milestones.

This article was originally published as ETHZilla Unveils Jet Engine Leases-Backed Token in Tokenization Pivot on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Chainalysis has released a detailed assessment showing a notable uptick in crypto flows tied to suspected human trafficking networks, with an 85% rise in 2025 and transaction volumes reaching hundreds of millions of dollars across identified services. The report highlights networks largely rooted in Southeast Asia and intertwined with scam compounds, online casinos, and Chinese-language money-laundering rings that have gained momentum as crypto adoption broadens. Notably, the study emphasizes that the choice of asset varies by service, with some operators leaning on stablecoins for cross-border payments. While the numbers are concerning, Chainalysis argues that the transparency of blockchains also creates actionable choke points for enforcement.

Among the opaque channels identified are Telegram-based services that facilitate international escorts, labor-placement schemes that allegedly coerce victims into work at scam compounds, prostitution networks, and vendors distributing material related to child sexual abuse. The research underscores that, in practice, payment methods diverge across illicit networks: international escort services and prostitution networks have shown a pronounced reliance on stablecoins, while other segments employ a broader mix of on- and off-ramp techniques. The report’s granular look at asset-type inflows and wallet behavior aims to give investigators and compliance teams new signals to pursue.

Chainalysis stresses that blockchain’s traceability can be a powerful tool for law enforcement. By identifying transaction patterns, monitoring compliance at exchanges, and pinpointing chokepoints in the ecosystem, authorities can disrupt bad actors in ways that cash or traditional remittance systems cannot. This is particularly relevant as illicit online marketplaces and money-laundering networks continue to adapt to shifting regulatory landscapes and evolving crypto offerings. The report also points readers to related work on the broader crypto-laundering landscape and how on-chain analytics are changing the enforcement playbook.

As a case in point, the firm notes several enforcement successes last year, including German authorities dismantling a child sexual exploitation platform, an operation that Chainalysis said was aided by blockchain analysis. The finding illustrates how coordinated usage of on-chain data can assist in tracing the flow of funds across multiple layers of a criminal network, from on-ramps to marketplaces to end-services. Chainalysis also emphasizes the need for ongoing vigilance by compliance teams and law enforcement to monitor for patterns such as high-frequency transfers to labor-placement entities, wallet clusters that operate across multiple illicit categories, and stablecoin conversion activity that appears routine rather than incidental.

Key takeaways

2025 crypto flows to suspected human trafficking networks surged by 85%, with total transaction volume reaching hundreds of millions of dollars across identified services.

Southeast Asia emerges as a central hub for these networks, which are tied to scam compounds, online casinos, and Chinese-language money-laundering networks.

Seemingly disparate services—Telegram-based international escorts, labor-placement agents, prostitution networks, and vendors supplying illicit content—rely on a mix of assets, with stablecoins favored for cross-border payments in several cases.

Blockchain’s transparency is framed as a diagnostic and disruption tool: it can reveal transaction patterns, flag large or anomalous activity, and help block or slow illicit flows at exchanges and at online marketplaces.

Law enforcement achievements, such as the German takedown of a child exploitation platform aided by blockchain forensics, demonstrate the practical leverage of on-chain analytics in complex investigations.

The report calls for heightened monitoring by compliance teams—watching for regular, large-payments to labor-placement services, wallet clusters spanning illicit categories, and recurring stablecoin conversions—as part of a broader AML framework.

Market context: The findings sit against a backdrop of growing regulatory interest in on-chain analytics, the expanding use of stablecoins, and ongoing scrutiny of cross-border crypto payments. As governments and financial institutions seek robust AML controls, analytics firms and exchanges are increasingly integrating sophisticated tracing tools to deter illicit finance while balancing user privacy and legitimate use cases. The evolving regulatory environment underscores the value—and the limits—of blockchain transparency in addressing criminal finance without stifling legitimate innovation.

Why it matters

The report illustrates a fundamental tension in the crypto economy: the same technologies that enable rapid, borderless financial activity can also facilitate harm if left unchecked. For users and investors, the message is clear—transparency tools are becoming a standard part of risk assessment, and due diligence now increasingly hinges on on-chain behaviors and counterparties. For builders and product teams, the emphasis on compliance signals a growing demand for wallet- and exchange-level controls, better KYC/AML workflows, and clearer disclosures around illicit-risk indicators.

For policymakers, the analysis reinforces the need for clear guidelines on stablecoins and cross-border settlements, as these instruments appear in multiple illicit-use cases. The data also supports continued investment in cross-agency cooperation and international information sharing, given that many of these networks operate across different jurisdictions and platforms. At a technical level, the findings encourage further development of attribution methodologies that preserve user privacy while enabling lawful investigators to trace criminal flows. In short, the study adds to a growing body of evidence that on-chain data can augment traditional investigative methods, but it must be integrated within a broader, well-governed framework.

For the broader crypto ecosystem, the emphasis on chokepoints and wallet clusters highlights practical avenues for disruption: exchanges can improve real-time monitoring, on-chain analytics can be used to flag risky counterparties, and marketplaces can adopt stricter seller verification and payment-processing controls. The convergence of enforcement and technology is likely to shape how illicit activity is funded and how quickly it can be identified and neutralized, potentially reducing the latency between crime and detection in a space historically challenged by anonymity and speed.

What to watch next

Follow-up updates from Chainalysis on 2026 data and trend analysis, including any revisions to the 2025 figures.

Regulatory actions targeting stablecoins and cross-border crypto payments, particularly in Southeast Asia and Europe.

Adoption of enhanced AML controls by exchanges and online marketplaces in response to on-chain‑driven findings.

Investigations and public disclosures related to large wallet clusters that span multiple illicit services or jurisdictions.

Further enforcement actions demonstrated or inspired by blockchain-forensic capabilities, such as high-profile takedowns and asset-tracing successes.

Sources & verification

Chainalysis blog post: crypto-human-trafficking-2026

Crypto-launderers turning away from centralized exchanges: Chainalysis coverage

Blockchain forensics and asset tracking explainer

Related investigative reporting on enforcement actions and policy context

Blockchain visibility and illicit finance: what the findings imply

Chainalysis’s report underscores how on-chain visibility can illuminate the pathways by which crypto assets are moved to support trafficking and exploitation. By charting flows into labor-placement operations, escort services, and adult services that rely on cross-border payments, investigators can identify recurring patterns that mark a network’s lifecycle—from onboarding to monetization. The emphasis on stablecoins in particular reflects how certain assets are chosen to minimize friction across borders, optimize settlement times, and obscure the origin and destination of funds in less-regulated corridors.

Yet the study also warns against overreliance on any single signal. Illicit actors adapt, and the same tools that reveal patterns can be misapplied if not paired with traditional investigative methods and robust governance. The combination of blockchain analytics with proactive compliance, inter-agency collaboration, and targeted enforcement represents a pragmatic approach to mitigating on-chain risks without dampening legitimate innovation in the crypto economy.

This article was originally published as Crypto Used by Trafficking Networks Surged in 2025, Chainalysis Finds on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin has struggled to stay above the $72,000 mark over the past week, as traders weigh whether a renewed institutional bid is at hand or merely a temporary pause in a broader risk-off cycle. While price action remains choppy, a dramatic shift sits in the derivatives market: aggregate open interest on Bitcoin futures fell to $34 billion in USD terms—the lowest level in months and the steepest decline since November 2024. Yet when measured in BTC, open interest sits around 502,450 BTC, suggesting that the appetite for leverage hasn’t collapsed and that the unwind is not uniform across asset denominations. Over the past two weeks, forced liquidations totaled about $5.2 billion, underscoring the fragility of long bets in a mood of caution and uncertainty.

Key takeaways

BTC futures open interest dropped to $34 billion, a 28% decline from 30 days earlier; BTC-denominated open interest remains roughly flat at BTC 502,450, implying ongoing leverage demand despite lower USD exposure.

Bearish leverage signals surfaced as risk appetite cooled: forced liquidations of roughly $5.2 billion in the last two weeks point to sustained volatility and risk management pressure.

Weak US job data fed concerns about the macro backdrop: the US Labor Department reported 181,000 jobs added in 2025, a number seen as soft against expectations, while gold reclaimed the $5,000 level and equities sit near highs, complicating the narrative for Bitcoin.

Bitcoin options markets flashed caution: the 30-day delta skew for BTC jumped to about 22%, with put options trading at a premium, signaling a clear tilt toward downside hedging among professional traders.

On the demand side, Bitcoin ETFs continued to trade thousands of BTC daily, with roughly $5.4 billion of average daily volume across US-listed funds, underscoring that institutional interest remains visible even amid uncertainty.

Bitcoin (BTC) has faced repeated hesitations around the $72,000 level as investors await clearer catalysts from the macro environment. The sheer contrast between price stability in select risk assets—gold rebounding past the $5,000 threshold and the S&P 500 hovering near record territory—and the weakness seen in BTC’s derivatives environment has intensified questions about whether Bitcoin is decoupling from traditional markets or simply pausing before the next leg of a broader risk-off cycle. The immediate concern is whether weak job data will push the Federal Reserve toward earlier or more aggressive easing, which would, in turn, influence capital flows across risk assets, including cryptocurrencies.

The data on open interest paints a nuanced picture. While USD-denominated OI has slid, the BTC-denominated measure suggests that market participants still seek leverage, albeit with tighter risk controls. Some traders attribute part of the USD OI decline to liquidations that amplified through the market in recent weeks, highlighting a landscape where risk management tools are actively trimming exposure. The tension between a calmer price backdrop and a more defensive sentiment in the derivatives space underscores the complexity of the current setup for Bitcoin.

In the background, the labor market remains a critical flashpoint. The US Labor Department’s latest weekly data indicated softer payroll growth, with an uptick in initial claims not far from pandemic-era levels of uncertainty. While the White House has argued that immigration policy has reduced the number of job openings the economy needs to fill, the broader narrative remains that slower growth could push the Fed toward rate cuts sooner than anticipated. This potential for looser financial conditions could, in theory, be supportive for risk assets, including Bitcoin, but the actual market reaction has been restrained and uneven across sectors.

From a historical perspective, the market’s sensitivity to macro indicators is not new for Bitcoin. The 52% drawdown seen in March 2020 occurred amid a broad global shock to economic activity and a surge in uncertainty, and the subsequent policy response helped restore liquidity and drive a notable risk-on phase. Today’s environment—where equities have held near highs while volatility remains elevated—presents a similar but more nuanced backdrop. If growth risks intensify and the Fed signals an accommodative stance ahead of expectations, the cost of capital for both companies and consumers could ease, potentially raising the odds of a renewed appetite for riskier assets, including BTC. The current mix suggests that traders are weighing both macro signals and on-chain indicators as they look for directional clarity.

The options market paints a more conservative picture than equity traders might prefer. The BTC options delta skew at Deribit climbed to approximately 22% on Thursday, indicating that put options are trading at a premium. Historically, a skew in that range signals a protective stance among market participants and a greater reluctance to embrace upside risk without sufficient hedges. By contrast, the lack of a clear appetite for bullish leverage reinforces the sense that the market remains vulnerable to negative catalysts, even as some investors watch for reasons to re-engage with long positions.

Another critical data point is the appetite for exchange-traded products tied to Bitcoin. Despite the volatility signals from the futures market, US-listed Bitcoin ETFs have maintained solid daily volumes, averaging around $5.4 billion. This level of activity suggests that institutional demand has not dried up, even if price action and the structure of the futures market reflect a more cautious stance. The divergence between robust ETF trading and weaker leverage indicators highlights the complexity of the current market regime and the difficulty of predicting the next major inflection point for Bitcoin.

In sum, the market’s current stance combines a cautious, risk-off tilt with ongoing, albeit selective, institutional participation. The near-term trajectory of Bitcoin will likely hinge on evolving macro data—particularly the pace of payroll growth and inflation trends—and how effectively the Fed communicates its policy path. Traders who expect a rapid reacceleration in risk appetite may face headwinds if macro data disappoints further, while any shift toward clearer economic strength or dovish policy cues could catalyze a re-pricing in both equities and crypto.

Why it matters

The divergence between price performance and leverage demand is a meaningful signal for market participants. If Bitcoin can sustain a movement higher with steady or improving leverage demand, it could point to renewed institutional confidence and a potential re-rating of BTC as a risk-on asset, especially if macro conditions align with looser financial conditions. Conversely, persistent weakness in the labor market and a cautious options market could keep downside risk elevated, making downside hedges a persistent theme for professional traders. For developers and ecosystem participants, the current climate emphasizes the need for robust risk management tools, clearer on-chain signals, and improved liquidity infrastructure to withstand a more volatile macro backdrop.

For traders and investors, the key takeaway is to monitor the interaction between macro signals and market microstructure. The presence of solid ETF trading volumes indicates that institutions remain engaged, even as futures markets signal caution. This dynamic could lengthen the time needed for a decisive breakout, suggesting a period of range-bound activity with sharp snaps if new data or policy developments shift sentiment abruptly.

What to watch next

Upcoming US payroll data releases and inflation metrics that could alter rate-hike expectations and liquidity dynamics.

Comments from Federal Reserve officials or changes in policy guidance that might signal a shift in monetary conditions.

Changes in BTC futures open interest and funding rates across major platforms, to assess whether leverage appetite is re-emerging or remaining subdued.

Bitcoin ETF flow developments and any notable shifts in daily volumes that could indicate persistent institutional involvement.

Derivatives metrics, including delta skew and implied volatility, to detect evolving risk sentiment among professional traders.

Sources & verification

Open interest and price data for BTC futures from CoinGlass.

BTC annualized funding rate data from Laevitas.ch.

Deribit 30-day options delta skew (via Laevitas) showing a 22% premium to puts.

US job data from the US Labor Department; payroll figures referenced in the article.

US policy and immigration-related labor discussions as reported by BBC.

Bitcoin leverage signals and macro cues

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) has faced a careful balance between resilience in some sectors of the market and caution in others. The latest readings show a split:USD-denominated open interest has retreated, while BTC-denominated exposure remains comparatively steady, underscoring ongoing demand for leverage even as risk sentiment throughout broader markets has cooled. The pullback in futures open interest comes amid a backdrop of soft payroll data and a policy backdrop that could tilt toward looser financial conditions if growth falters. In this environment, the direction for Bitcoin will hinge on whether macro developments translate into clearer catalysts for risk-taking or a renewed risk-off impulse that drives profits to the sidelines. The dynamic illustrates why traders are paying close attention to how traditional markets behave in response to economic data, and why the crypto market remains highly sensitive to liquidity and risk sentiment changes.

Market participants should note that ETF volumes remain a meaningful barometer of institutional involvement. While futures markets may show caution, the sustained level of average daily trading in Bitcoin-linked ETFs points to a persistent base of liquidity and a willingness among large players to maintain exposure. This dichotomy—between derivatives signals and ETFs activity—helps explain why Bitcoin’s near-term path remains uncertain, with potential for both pullbacks and selective strength depending on how macro data evolves and how policy expectations shift in response.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Open Interest at 2024 Lows: Is TradFi Abandoning BTC? on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin faced renewed selling pressure on Thursday as the price retraced from an intraday high near 68,300 dollars. On-chain observations point to ongoing capitulation, with long‑term holders trimming exposure and a broad mix of leverage liquidations fueling the weakness. Several analysts argue that the current cycle could see BTC bottoming in late 2026, after a protracted downward phase that has pulled the asset from its 2025 peak in a manner not seen since prior bear markets.

Key takeaways

On-chain indicators point to deep capitulation, with downside risks persisting as long-term holders adjust positions.

Long-term holder net-position change shows extreme distribution, echoing patterns seen before previous bottoms in the cycle.

Multiple analyses point toward a potential BTC bottom in Q4 2026, aligning with a history of multi-quarter bear cycles.

Mass liquidations and shifting open interest underscore caution amid persistent stress in the derivatives market.

Developments in on-chain metrics continue to diverge from recent price rallies, implying limited near-term upside without renewed buying interest.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH

Sentiment: Bearish

Price impact: Negative. The ongoing capitulation signals and persistent selling pressure raise the odds of BTC trading lower in the near term.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. While downside risk remains, indicators suggest the market could form a bottom later in 2026, warranting cautious positioning and risk management.

Market context: The current phase sits within a broader risk-off backdrop for crypto markets, where on-chain signals and leveraged liquidations have amplified volatility while traders await clearer macro and regulatory cues.

Why it matters

The tenor of on-chain data underscores a fundamental shift in investor behavior. Long-term holders have historically acted as a counterweight to price declines, yet in this cycle their net exposure has declined sharply, suggesting widespread capitulation among a cohort that typically anchors market recoveries. The observed distribution patterns bear similarities to prior corrections that preceded further downside before a subsequent bottom, pointing to a potential multi-month horizon before a durable floor emerges.

Analysts emphasize that such capitulation does not guarantee a bottom right away; instead, it denotes a phase where weak hands have exited and confidence remains fragile. Fundamental demand appears tempered by macro uncertainty, while BTC faces the dual test of reclaiming critical price levels and reframing risk appetite among specialized participants who dominate futures and options markets. In other words, the path to a meaningful reversal is likely to hinge on whether buying interest can reassert itself after the current wave of liquidations peters out.

The data also highlight a tension between price action and longer-term metrics. While the price has flirted with notable support levels, corresponding on-chain signals have not yet shown a decisive pivot toward sustainable accumulation. Some observers argue that the most consequential developments—such as a sustained improvement in realized losses versus profits or an uptick in long-position liquidations—could precede a bottom, as past cycles have often featured distinctive phases where capitulation preceded a period of consolidation.

From a broader market perspective, the cycle’s depth has tested risk controls and liquidity across exchanges. The magnitude of long liquidations, particularly in the BTC‑USD pair, has drawn attention to the fragility of highly leveraged positions. In tandem, OI (open interest) has remained elevated relative to short-term price moves, signaling caution among participants who depend on leverage to express directional bets. These dynamics feed a narrative in which a bottom, if it materializes, may occur only after a protracted period of price discovery and tighter funding conditions rather than a quick rebound.

What to watch next

Bitcoin price reclaim of key zones around 105,000–107,000 dollars could signal a shift in momentum and align with some bear-case bottoms.

Continued analysis of long-term holder net-position changes to assess whether distribution slows or accelerates as markets approach mid‑2026.

Monitoring MVRV Adaptive Z‑Score trends and other momentum indicators for signs of accumulation or renewed capitulation.

Open interest and funding-rate dynamics on major futures platforms to gauge whether downside pressure is fading or intensifying.

Macro and regulatory developments that could influence liquidity and risk appetite in crypto markets, potentially shaping the timing of a bottom.

Sources & verification

Glassnode analyses on long-term holder net-position change and its relationship to bear-market bottoms.

CryptoQuant Quicktake data showing Bitcoin’s MVRV Adaptive Z-Score at deeply negative levels.

CoinGlass data detailing liquidation clusters and changes in futures open interest across exchanges.

Public posts from market analysts on X discussing potential timing of a bottom, including references to historical cycles.

On-Chain College charts illustrating net realized losses and their historical context.

Bitcoin capitulation deepens as on-chain metrics point to possible late-2026 bottom

Bitcoin has moved decisively off its intraday peak, with the price retreating from the near region of 68,300 dollars as sellers reasserted control this Thursday. The retreat comes after a sizable drawdown from the all-time high set in the previous cycle, a drop of roughly 46 percent from a peak above 126,000 dollars in October 2025. The move has intensified a narrative of capitulation that on-chain trackers have been flagging for weeks, as a substantial portion of the market remains underwater and exposure patterns shift among different investor cohorts.

Glassnode’s data on long-term holders reveals a cycle-relative extreme in daily distribution. The net-position change shows that BTC held by long-term investors fell by about 245,000 coins on February 6, and the trend has persisted, with this group trimming exposure by an average of roughly 170,000 BTC per day since then. This behavior mirrors episodes in previous corrections when long-dated holders capitulated before the market carved out a bottom, suggesting that the present phase shares some historical characteristics with past bear cycles. The observation is not a forecast in itself, but it does provide a framework for interpreting a price action that has defied quick reversals despite briefer rallies.

“The current Z-Score reading of -2.66 proves that Bitcoin remains persistently in the capitulation zone,” CryptoQuant contributor GugaOnChain explained, noting that the metric has historically signaled an accumulation phase on the horizon.

Another lens comes from the Realized Profit/Loss Ratio, which Glassnode notes is nearing a decisive threshold. When realized losses outrun profits, markets have tended to experience broader capitulation rather than immediate recoveries, a pattern investors watch closely as they assess whether the current cycle is entering a new accumulation phase or simply grinding lower before a deeper pullback.

Meanwhile, market observers have cited the most dramatic liquidations in recent sessions, with BTC and Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) accounting for outsized losses across liquidators, and a broad 1.33 billion dollars in combined short and long liquidations reported in one window. The juxtaposition of persistent price softness with still-significant open interest highlights the fragility of the current price regime, where leverage remains at risk of triggering renewed bouts of selling if markets retest critical levels. The largest single liquidation reportedly occurred on a major platform, underscoring the scope of risk in a crowded derivatives market.

On the forecasting front, several voices argue that BTC could bottom in the fourth quarter of 2026, albeit with a wide range of potential price bands. One analyst characterized the trajectory as potentially forming a floor in the 40,000 to 50,000 dollar region, while other analysts see a more complex path shaped by liquidity cycles and macro factors. The all-time high printed in October 2025 casts a long shadow, with traders noting that the drive to find a bottom may hinge on a combination of on-chain discipline and renewed buying interest from institutions and retail participants alike.

Data of note from On-Chain College shows a spike in net realized losses up to around 13.6 billion dollars in early February, levels not seen since the 2022 bear market. If history rhymes, this peak could precede a broader bottom as market participants digest losses and reassess risk, potentially leading to a calibration of positions that could stabilize prices later in the year or into 2027. The narrative around a late-2026 bottom is not a guarantee, but a synthesis of historical patterns, current on-chain dynamics, and the persistence of downward price pressure despite intermittent rallies.

Looking ahead, the research community remains divided, with some analysts arguing that the capitulation wave could ease as positions liquidate and fear subsides, allowing a stable base to form. Others caution that until key price levels are reclaimed and investor confidence returns, BTC could stay range-bound or drift to sub-100,000 dollar territory before buyers re-emerge. This uncertainty underscores the importance of monitoring both price action and the evolving on-chain environment as a rough timetable for turning points remains ambiguous.

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This article was originally published as Bitcoin in Capitulation Zone as Traders Debate When BTC Will Bottom on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Investors faced a sobering quarter as Coinbase reported a net loss for Q4 2025, snapping an eight-quarter streak of profitability as the crypto market cooled. The company posted earnings per share of 66 cents, missing consensus of 92 cents, while revenue slipped 21.5% year over year to $1.78 billion. A mixed revenue mix underscored the shift in the business: transaction-related revenue declined sharply, while subscriptions and services advanced, highlighting a bifurcated earnings trajectory in a tighter crypto ecosystem. The quarter arrived against a backdrop of a broader crypto price retreat, with Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) enduring meaningful pressure through the period and into year-end.

Key takeaways

Q4 2025 net loss of $667 million ends Coinbase’s run of eight straight profitable quarters, reflecting a weaker quarterly mix and softer market conditions.

Total revenue dropped to $1.78 billion, down 21.5% year over year, underscoring a broader demand slowdown in trading activity.

Transaction-related revenue tumbled nearly 37% year over year to $982.7 million, while subscription and services revenue rose more than 13% to $727.4 million, signaling a pivot toward non-transactional monetization.

Bitcoin price action contributed to the macro headwinds, with the leading crypto shedding roughly 30% from its October peak to year-end, illustrating why crypto market cycles continued to weigh on exchange earnings.

Despite the earnings miss, Coinbase’s stock (EXCHANGE: COIN) recovered in after-hours trading, gaining about 2.9% to $145.18 after a full trading day decline, reflecting a nuanced market reaction to the results and forward guidance.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $COIN

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Positive. The stock rose in after-hours trading following the earnings release despite the quarterly miss, signaling a potential reassessment of near-term expectations.

Market context: The results arrive amid a broader macro environment for crypto assets where price volatility and trading volumes have remained central to revenue durability for major exchanges, and where investor focus has shifted toward product diversification and cost discipline.

Why it matters

The quarterly print underscores the ongoing transition for a major crypto exchange from a revenue model heavily reliant on trading activity toward a more diversified mix anchored in subscriptions, services, and value-added offerings. Coinbase, in its Q4 2025 shareholder documentation, highlighted that 2025 was a “strong year” operationally and financially, with full-year revenues reaching $6.88 billion, up 9.4% from 2024. This indicates a strategy aimed at resilience in the face of cyclical downturns, leveraging product expansion and platform reach to sustain long-term profitability even when trading volumes ebb.

From a market structure perspective, the numbers reflect a clear divergence within the crypto economy: trading remains sensitive to price swings and risk sentiment, while an expanding suite of services—including custody, staking, and AI-enabled wallet products—offers revenue visibility beyond quarterly price moves. Coinbase’s leadership has stressed that more than 12% of all crypto globally resided on its platform in 2025, a stark data point that underscores the bankability of scale and network effects in this nascent asset class. The shift toward a steadier subscription and services revenue base could insulate the company from near-term volatility and set the stage for steadier long-run growth.

On the earnings call, CFO Aleshia Haas emphasized operational discipline, noting plans to keep technology, sales, and marketing expenses relatively flat in the near term while evaluating opportunities to deploy resources more efficiently. This stance signals a prioritization of cash-generative activities and careful investment in product development, a balance that may appeal to investors seeking a secular growth story within a still-fragile macro environment.

The quarter’s performance also touches on investor sentiment around cryptoasset risk and institutional flow. The broader market has experienced episodic stress, and the company’s performance appears tightly linked to the health of Bitcoin and other major assets as traders respond to global liquidity shifts, regulatory updates, and evolving market structure debates. In this context, Coinbase’s results offer a lens into how a large crypto exchange navigates a period of cyclical headwinds while pursuing a trajectory that relies less on trading volatility and more on recurring revenue streams and product expansion.

What to watch next

Q4-25 shareholder letter release and detailed segment breakdown to assess how much the revenue mix shifted beyond transaction revenue.

Q1 outlook updates, including any revisions to subscription and services revenue guidance and the trajectory of transaction revenue as market conditions evolve.

Updates on product initiatives, especially any milestones around AI-enabled wallets or other services that broaden asset utility on the platform.

Bitcoin price trends in early 2026 and corresponding impact on trading volumes and fee-based revenue for Coinbase and similar exchanges.

Regulatory developments or macro signals that influence risk sentiment in the crypto market, which could affect liquidity and user activity on the platform.

Sources & verification

Coinbase Q4-25 Shareholder Letter (PDF) – official financial disclosure for the quarter and full-year 2025.

Q4 2025 earnings data and commentary – as described in the shareholder letter and accompanying materials.

Bitcoin price movements referenced in market coverage and related context articles linked in the report.

Post-earnings trading data for Coinbase (COIN) stock, including after-hours move to approximately $145.18 and intraday trade levels.

Related Coinbase product and strategy articles cited in the earnings narrative, including references to AI wallet initiatives and platform expansion.

Market reaction and key details

Coinbase’s quarterly results foreground a critical moment for the crypto exchange sector: profitability in a market that remains highly sensitive to both crypto price cycles and the intensity of trading activity. In the quarter, Coinbase’s total revenue of $1.78 billion reflected a decline in transactional income, even as the company advanced its services-based revenue. The shift aligns with a broader push in the industry to monetize platform usage beyond buy/sell activity, a move designed to stabilize earnings amid volatile asset prices.

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) endured a meaningful pullback during the quarter, illustrating the bidirectional relationship between asset prices and exchange revenues. The asset’s gradient—from highs near six figures to more subdued levels—has tangible implications for liquidity, trading volumes, and fee accrual on major platforms. While the exact trajectory of crypto price action is inherently uncertain, the quarter’s data points reinforce the importance of a diversified revenue model for exchanges seeking resilience during bear-to-bull transitions in the market.

What it means for users and the market

For users, the emphasis on subscriptions and services could translate into broader access to tools that help manage, secure, and optimize holdings beyond straightforward trading. The potential to link more products to user assets could deepen engagement and wallet utility, potentially driving retention and incremental revenue through non-transactional channels. For builders and investors, Coinbase’s approach underscores the importance of a scalable, multi-pronged business model in the crypto economy, particularly as regulatory clarity evolves and market structure debates continue to unfold.

What to watch next

Q4-25 investor communications with detailed breakdowns of revenue by services vs. transaction flows.

Near-term guidance updates, including subscription/services outlook and any changes to capital allocation strategy.

Progress updates on AI-enabled wallet initiatives and other product launches intended to expand asset use-cases on the platform.

This article was originally published as Coinbase Misses Q4 Earnings; $667M Loss as Crypto Markets Slump on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.