Crypto Breaking

Bitcoin Price Retreats Amid Easing Geopolitical Tensions

Bitcoin experienced a correction below the $96,000 level on Thursday, driven by a recent improvement in geopolitical relations in the Middle East, which diminished safe-haven demand. The cryptocurrency’s move reflects traders’ cautious approach as they assess key support levels ahead of potential continued volatility.

Key Takeaways

Bitcoin declines below critical support levels as the US trading session begins, raising concerns over short-term momentum.

Multiple trendlines are aligning as bulls aim to reclaim support near the $100,000 mark.

Profit-taking has intensified among short-term investors following recent price peaks.

The market remains sensitive to geopolitical developments, influencing both crypto and traditional assets.

Tickers mentioned:
Crypto → Bitcoin (BTC)

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Negative. The decline was prompted by profit-taking and shifts in momentum amid geopolitical easing.

Market context: The correction coincides with positive news in global diplomacy, yet traders maintain caution amid technical support tests.

Markets React to Geopolitical Developments

Bitcoin’s drop was partly influenced by a broader market divergence from equities and precious metals, which gained on reports that tensions between the US and Iran are de-escalating. A tweet from The Kobeissi Letter citing President Trump’s remarks to Iran—that he does not seek war—accelerated the risk-on sentiment in traditional markets, easing commodity prices including oil.

BREAKING: President Trump has told Iran he does not want war and will not launch an attack, according to Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan. Oil prices are down sharply on the news.

Despite the positive geopolitical news, Bitcoin’s price correction reveals traders’ focus on technical thresholds. The $94,000 level remains critical for bulls to sustain the uptrend, according to market analysts like Daan Crypto Trades.

“Critical for the bulls to hold the $94K region going forward. Any moves back down that level would not make for a pretty look,”

Market analysts are closely watching the 200-day exponential moving average, currently near $99,555, as a key resistance zone. The previous rejection at this level contributed to the recent correction. Meanwhile, broader support levels around $101,000 and the weekly open at $93,500 continue to be focal points for traders planning their next moves.

On-chain analytics suggest that profit-taking among short-term holders has increased, with approximately 40,000 Bitcoin moved to exchanges over 24 hours, much of it at profits. This behavior indicates a potential shift in market sentiment, emphasizing caution among investors who have held Bitcoin for up to six months.

CryptoQuant contributor Darkfost noted that the recent correction has affected traders’ willingness to hold, stressing that higher upside momentum and stronger confirmation are needed to rebuild confidence and sustain the current uptrend.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Retreats to $95,500 as It Coolly Bounces Back on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Empowers anyone to launch a decentralised AI model and be rewarded with cryptocurrency when it is used

The franchise business model is designed to undercut the pricing floor of traditional AI providers

The launch of FOMO marks the final milestone in FLock.io’s evolution into a full-cycle decentralised AI ecosystem with balanced supply and demand

London, 15 January 2026: FLock.io, a platform for decentralised AI model development, has announced the launch of Flock Open Model Offering (FOMO): an industry-first launchpad for anyone to launch a decentralised AI model and be rewarded with cryptocurrency when it is used.

Developers can use the platform to seamlessly integrate the user-generated models into their own applications via a simple API. By democratising access to enterprise-grade infrastructure, FOMO removes the technical and financial barriers that have kept powerful AI models under the control of a few centralised giants.

Underpinning the launchpad is a novel franchise economic model designed to undercut the pricing floor of traditional AI providers. Unlike standard cloud infrastructure where pricing is dictated by raw compute costs, FOMO utilises a deflationary crypto-token buy-back-and-burn mechanism, where revenue from model usage is automatically used to purchase and burn model-specific tokens. Model users can also stake these tokens to secure discounted API usage rates. This structure incentivises model owners to subsidise inference costs for early adopters, ensuring that as a model’s usage grows, value accrues directly to the stakeholders who backed it.

“We are breaking the monopoly that centralised giants hold over AI,” said Jiahao Sun, Founder and CEO of FLock.io. “The future of intelligence cannot be a black box controlled by a handful of organisations. Decentralisation ensures that powerful AI models remain accessible, transparent and free from the control of a single entity. By distributing governance and ownership, we are building a future where technology serves everyone.”

The launch of FOMO marks the final milestone in FLock.io’s evolution into a full-cycle decentralised AI ecosystem. By connecting the platform’s supply side of AI Arena for model training and FL Alliance for computations support, as the demand layer, FOMO closes the loop.

Since launching its mainnet in 2024, FLock.io has experienced explosive increase in use, with 10,007 fully-trained machine learning models being created and over 56,000 people holding its native FLOCK token. FLock.io has recently been appointed as the official AI strategic partner of the United Nations Development Programme and also works with Alibaba, NHS, Aigen Sciences, CIMG Inc. and Moorfields Eye Hospital.

About FLock.io

FLock.io is a platform enabling the decentralised development of AI models. Its incentive-aligned architecture allows data owners, compute providers, and AI engineers to collaborate securely without exposing raw data, ushering in a new era of privacy-preserving, democratised AI.

Media Contact: flock@wachsman.com

This article was originally published as FLock.io Unveils FOMO on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – January 15, 2026: BWT Alpine Formula One Team and eToro have today announced a partnership agreement for the eagerly anticipated, upcoming 2026 season, becoming the team’s exclusive trading and investment partner.

As both Formula One and retail investing continue to grow globally, the partnership brings together two brands united by a focus on innovation and community. eToro empowers more than 40 million registered users across 75 countries to trade, invest, learn and share. BWT Alpine Formula One Team competes at the highest level of motorsport, where preparation, precision and relentless improvement define success in a new regulation era of Formula One in 2026.

Built on shared values of innovation and community, the partnership will focus on engaging fans globally through content and experiences throughout the season.

Yoni Assia, Co-founder & CEO, eToro: “We are proud to partner with BWT Alpine Formula One Team ahead of the 2026 season. Formula One is driven by innovation and a relentless commitment to improvement, which strongly align with eToro’s mission to equip our users with the financial tools and education they need to meet their evolving investing goals. Together, we look forward to creating inspiring content and experiences for fans worldwide.”

Guy Martin, Global Marketing Director, BWT Alpine Formula One Team: “We are excited to welcome eToro as the exclusive trading and investment partner. Our partnership brings together two brands driven by performance, innovation and a shared ambition to challenge conventions both on the track and beyond. We are keen to bring fans closer to the sport than ever through innovative campaigns together with like-minded partners, such as eToro.”

Media Contacts

pr@etoro.com

media@alpinef1.com

About eToro

eToro is the trading and investing platform that empowers you to invest, share and learn. We were founded in 2007 with the vision of a world where everyone can trade and invest in a simple and transparent way. Today we have over 40 million registered users from 75 countries. We believe there is power in shared knowledge and that we can become more successful by investing together. So we’ve created a collaborative investment community designed to provide you with the tools you need to grow your knowledge and wealth. On eToro, you can hold a range of traditional and innovative assets and choose how you invest: trade directly, invest in a portfolio, or copy other investors. You can visit our media centre here for our latest news.

About BWT Alpine Formula One Team

BWT Alpine Formula One Team competes in the FIA Formula One World Championship with Grand Prix race winner Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto under the leadership of Executive Advisor, Flavio Briatore. The team, bought by the Benetton Family in 1986, was moved to Enstone, Oxfordshire, in 1992 where it is still based today. Renault bought the Italian-run team in 2000 and rebranded as Alpine F1. The team has a winning legacy, having won the Formula One World Championship seven times including the Drivers’ World Championship [1994, 1995, 2005 and 2006] with Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso, and the Constructors’ World Championship [1995, 2005 and 2006]. The team’s most recent triumph came at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, the 50th victory overall. For more information, please head to www.alpinef1.com

Disclaimers:

eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk. Past performance is not an indication of future results.

eToro is a group of companies that are authorised and regulated in their respective jurisdictions.

The regulatory authorities overseeing eToro include:

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) in Cyprus

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Australia

The Financial Services Authority (FSA) in the Seychelles

The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) in the UAE

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in Singapore

This communication is for information and education purposes only and should not be taken as investment advice, a personal recommendation, or an offer of, or solicitation to buy or sell, any financial instruments. This material has been prepared without taking into account any particular recipient’s investment objectives or financial situation, and has not been prepared in accordance with the legal and regulatory requirements to promote independent research. Any references to past or future performance of a financial instrument, index or a packaged investment product are not, and should not be taken as, a reliable indicator of future results. eToro makes no representation and assumes no liability as to the accuracy or completeness of the content of this publication.

Regulation and License Numbers:

Middle East

eToro (ME) Limited, is licensed and regulated by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (“ADGM”)’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (“FSRA“) as an Authorised Person to conduct the Regulated Activities of (a) Dealing in Investments as Principal (Matched), (b) Arranging Deals in Investments, (c) Providing Custody, (d) Arranging Custody and (e) Managing Assets (under Financial Services Permission Number 220073) under the Financial Services and Market Regulations 2015 (“FSMR”). Registered Office and its principal place of business: Office 26 and 27, 25th floor, Al Sila Tower, ADGM Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

This article was originally published as eToro partners with BWT Alpine Formula One Team ahead of the 2026 season on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 15 January 2026: PRYPCO, the Middle East’s leading PropTech platform for fractional real estate ownership, today announced that it has selected Fireblocks as its strategic technology and infrastructure provider to power the next phase of its real-world asset (RWA) tokenization strategy, as investor demand accelerates across the MENA region and globally.

As PRYPCO continues to pioneer regulated, technology-enabled access to real estate investment, the platform is strengthening its core infrastructure to support institutional-grade scale and best-in-class security for investor assets. Fireblocks’ enterprise digital asset infrastructure will serve as a foundational layer underpinning PRYPCO’s expanding tokenization roadmap.

Through this integration, PRYPCO is leveraging Fireblocks’ secure wallet technology, private key management infrastructure, digital asset custody capabilities, and most importantly, its tokenization capabilities, that will support PRYPCO’s end-to-end tokenization operations, ensuring investor assets are protected by advanced security controls while enabling seamless participation in tokenized real-world assets across markets.

Fireblocks currently facilitates more than $10 trillion in digital asset transfers, supports over 550 million wallets, and offers infrastructure compatibility across 120+ blockchains, providing PRYPCO with a proven, globally trusted technology stack as it scales its RWA offerings internationally.

PRYPCO

“As PRYPCO scales its real-world asset tokenization platform globally, infrastructure strength and security are non-negotiable,” said Amira Sajwani, Founder and CEO of PRYPCO.

“We selected Fireblocks as they represent the highest standard in secure digital asset infrastructure, enabling us to operate with the flexibility, resilience, and security required to serve a new generation of global investors while maintaining the highest levels of trust and regulatory integrity,” she added.

PRYPCO has rapidly established itself as the region’s leading PropTech platform by democratising access to real estate through regulated fractional ownership, combining deep regional market expertise with advanced digital infrastructure. PRYPCO continues to set new benchmarks for transparency, innovation, and investor protection at the intersection of real estate and blockchain-enabled finance.

About PRYPCO

PRYPCO is a next-generation PropTech company reshaping the real estate market through tokenization, fractional ownership, simplified mortgages, Golden Visas and digital accessibility for real estate agents. Founded by Amira Sajwani, PRYPCO’s ecosystem includes PRYPCO Mint (tokenized investment), PRYPCO Blocks, PRYPCO Mortgage, PRYPCO One for agents, and PRYPCO Golden Visa. With a bold vision to enable real estate freedom, PRYPCO is setting new standards in how people invest, own, and benefit from property.

Press Contact:

Karen Lobo
PR & Communications Manager
karen.lobo@prypco.com

This article was originally published as PRYPCO Selects Fireblocks as Strategic Technology and Infrastructure Provider to Power Its Next Chapter of RWA Tokenization on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

UK Considers Restrictions on Under-16 Social Media Use Amid Regulatory Battles

The United Kingdom is exploring new legislative measures that could prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing mainstream social media platforms. Building on the existing Online Safety Act, officials aim to enhance protections against harmful content and enforce stricter age verification protocols. These proposals are part of broader efforts to regulate online environments and safeguard minors, amid ongoing debates surrounding digital freedoms and safety.

Key Developments and Political Stances

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reviewing Australia’s approach of banning social media for under-16s, signaling openness to similar measures despite initial reservations.

Conservative MP David Davis publicly supported the ban, advocating for restrictions on social media and mobile phone use in schools to promote safer environments.

The UK government’s efforts focus on expanding enforcement powers for Ofcom, the national regulator, which could impose hefty fines or restrict access for non-compliant platforms.

Critics express concern that aggressive enforcement risks infringing on free speech, with some likening the crackdown to restrictive regimes in countries like China and Russia.

Conservative MP advocates for social media restrictions for minors. Source: David Davi

Enforcement and Global Parallels

As the UK seeks to strengthen its online safety legislation, tensions have arisen with platforms like Elon Musk’s X, which has criticized the Online Safety Act for potentially infringing on free speech. Ofcom is preparing to wield new powers that could involve significant fines or restrictions on platforms failing to meet child safety and illegal content obligations.

Meanwhile, concerns about overreach echo globally. Aleksandr Litreev, CEO of Sentinel, a company providing censorship-resistant internet through decentralized virtual private networks (dVPNs), warned that the UK’s approach resembles policies in authoritarian regimes such as China, Russia, and Iran. He emphasized that restricting youth access to the internet hampers the development of digital literacy and critical thinking skills necessary for navigating a connected world.

International Movements Toward Digital Identity Verification

Other nations are advancing similar initiatives. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner announced a new industry code requiring major search engines to enforce age verification technologies, including government IDs and biometric checks, by December 2025. European Union member Ireland plans to promote identity-verified social media accounts during its upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026.

Conversely, the UK recently dropped plans for a centralized digital ID system designed for employment checks, citing privacy concerns and public backlash. These evolving policies highlight a global trend toward integrating robust identity verification measures across digital platforms.

Implications for Crypto and Privacy

Within the crypto ecosystem, exchanges and trading apps already adhere to Know Your Customer (KYC) and biometric requirements, involving government ID verification and facial scans. The emphasis on age and identity validation for social media and online services suggests increasing adoption of these verification technologies outside financial markets.

Litreev remarked, “If a government sells you something ‘for the sake of safety,’ it’s sure as hell not about safety in any way or form,” underscoring concerns over privacy erosion and government overreach in pursuit of digital safety measures.

This article was originally published as UK Explores Social Media Ban for Under-16s: What You Need to Know on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

India’s Crypto Industry Advocates for Tax Reforms Ahead of Union Budget

As India prepares to unveil its Union Budget in February, the country’s burgeoning crypto sector is urging policymakers to reconsider current tax regulations, which industry insiders believe hinder growth and innovation. The push for reform comes amid tightening regulatory compliance and rising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the existing framework.

Key Takeaways

Current crypto tax policies impose a flat 30% tax on gains and a 1% tax deducted at source on all transactions.

Industry leaders argue that the taxes, especially at the transaction level, discourage onshore activity and advanced compliance efforts.

Officials believe that reforms could foster better compliance and bolster domestic digital asset markets.

Stricter enforcement measures are prompting exchanges to seek balanced regulatory approaches to protect investor interests while promoting innovation.

Tickers mentioned: None

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Neutral. Regulatory clarity could stabilize the market but remains uncertain until policies are finalized.

Market context: India’s crypto sector is at a crossroads, with increased calls for reform amid global trends toward more progressive regulation and domestic enforcement tightening.

Revisiting the Indian Crypto Tax Framework

India’s current tax regime for cryptocurrencies, introduced in 2022, enforces a 30% tax on any gains, alongside a 1% tax deducted at source applicable to most transactions, regardless of profitability. Significantly, losses from trading cannot currently offset gains, further complicating traders’ and investors’ strategies. The industry contends that such a regime stifles innovation and liquidity by making compliance overly burdensome and discouraging participation in the onshore market.

Executives from leading domestic exchanges emphasize that the existing tax measures, especially the transaction-level levies, do not align with the evolution of global digital assets markets nor India’s own progress in regulating the sector. Nischal Shetty, founder of WazirX, states that the upcoming Budget offers a prime opportunity to recalibrate policies to foster transparency and innovation.

“India has a chance to refine its framework to better support compliance while encouraging growth,” Shetty said. He advocates for a thoughtful reduction in the transaction-based TDS and a reassessment of loss-set-off rules to restore liquidity and sustain economic activity domestically.

Similarly, ZebPay’s COO Raj Karkara believes that a rational approach to reducing taxes and refining the existing 1% TDS could make the sector more attractive and foster a healthier onshore ecosystem. Sectors such as Binance’s APAC lead, SB Seker, also suggest that focusing on capital gains with limited loss offsets and eliminating excessive transaction levies would signal a move away from a punitive “tax-and-deter” regime, fostering responsible investment and growth.

Challenges from Increased Enforcement

Amid calls for reform, Indian authorities have intensified compliance requirements for crypto platforms. Recent directives from the Financial Intelligence Unit mandate stringent KYC procedures, including live selfie verification, geolocation tracking, and bank account authentication. Concurrently, the income tax department has raised alarms about the challenges posed by offshore exchanges, private wallets, and decentralized finance tools in tracking taxable crypto income, highlighting ongoing enforcement efforts.

These developments underscore the tension between regulatory oversight and the sector’s growth ambitions, with many industry stakeholders advocating for balanced reforms that support innovation while ensuring compliance and investor protection.

This article was originally published as Indian Crypto Exchanges Urge Tax Reforms Ahead of Union Budget 2023 on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

DZ Bank has received approval from Germany’s financial regulator BaFin to launch its cryptocurrency trading platform. The approval comes under the European Union’s MiCAR framework. The platform will initially offer four major cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum.

The new service, named meinKrypto, will provide access to retail customers of DZ Bank and its affiliated local cooperative banks. These institutions will now be able to offer crypto trading services through the platform. The service is integrated into the VR Banking App, enabling users to invest directly from their existing banking interface.

Crypto Offerings and Custody Solutions

The meinKrypto platform will launch with Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and Cardano (ADA). The custody of these digital assets will be handled by Boerse Stuttgart Digital. This entity, part of the Boerse Stuttgart Group, is regulated to ensure secure asset storage.

Trades executed on meinKrypto will be processed by EUWAX AG, a Germany-based financial services provider. This company is a subsidiary of Boerse Stuttgart GmbH. The partnership with Boerse Stuttgart ensures that the platform has a regulated and secure foundation for digital asset transactions.

Collaborations and Regional Expansion

DZ Bank’s initiative to enter the crypto market follows a series of preparations. A pilot program, launched in December 2024, allowed select cooperative banks to test the platform. Westerwald Bank was the first cooperative bank to trial the service, setting the stage for wider adoption across Germany’s cooperative financial network.

With the regulatory green light, the cooperative banks now face the task of securing their individual MiCAR notifications. Only after this will they be able to roll out crypto trading services to their customers. DZ Bank’s collaboration with Ripple subsidiary Metaco also laid the groundwork for this launch, with crypto custody solutions introduced in late 2023.

As Germany’s largest cooperative bank, DZ Bank’s move into the crypto space positions it as a key player in the growing digital assets sector. While the platform starts with a limited selection of assets, future expansions are likely as the market develops. With growing regulatory support and institutional collaboration, the country’s banking sector appears increasingly open to digital currencies.

This article was originally published as DZ Bank Secures BaFin Approval to Launch Crypto Platform for German Banks on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Pakistan has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SC Financial Technologies, an affiliate of World Liberty Financial, to explore integrating a USD-pegged stablecoin into the country’s payment infrastructure. This partnership aims to enhance Pakistan’s digital finance landscape by focusing on cross-border transactions and stablecoin adoption. The collaboration will bring the stablecoin into Pakistan’s existing cryptocurrency framework, which includes both regulatory advancements and digital asset initiatives.

This MoU is significant as it marks the first public agreement between a sovereign state and a cryptocurrency project. The deal follows Pakistan’s formation of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) and the Pakistan Crypto Council. These steps highlight the nation’s increasing commitment to building a robust digital economy with enhanced regulation for virtual assets.

Stablecoin Integration for Cross-Border Transactions

Under the new agreement, World Liberty Financial will work alongside Pakistan’s central bank to incorporate a dollar-pegged stablecoin into the national payment system. The stablecoin will be utilized primarily for cross-border payments, with an emphasis on remittances and trade. This move aligns with Pakistan’s broader efforts to streamline financial transactions and reduce dependency on traditional banking methods for international transfers.

The stablecoin, which operates across multiple blockchains, including BNB Smart Chain, has experienced significant growth in circulation. It aims to simplify the process of international transactions, offering a stable alternative to volatile cryptocurrencies. The partnership with World Liberty Financial could provide Pakistan with more control over digital assets and facilitate smoother financial operations within the region.

Pakistan’s Efforts to Strengthen the Cryptocurrency Ecosystem

Pakistan’s collaboration with World Liberty Financial comes as the nation takes key steps toward strengthening its cryptocurrency ecosystem. In the past year, Pakistan has introduced initiatives such as the PVARA and the Pakistan Crypto Council to regulate digital assets and ensure their safe integration into the economy. Major exchanges, including Binance and HTX, now operate legally within Pakistan, reflecting the country’s progressive stance toward cryptocurrency.

Additionally, Pakistan has revealed plans to establish a Bitcoin reserve, a move that signals the government’s intent to fully embrace blockchain technology. With these efforts, Pakistan aims to position itself as a leader in the global digital finance arena. This new agreement with World Liberty Financial is another step toward modernizing the country’s financial infrastructure and expanding its digital finance initiatives.

The USD-pegged stablecoin has grown significantly, with a circulating supply exceeding $3.4 billion. The deal aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to explore the potential of blockchain and decentralized finance. As this collaboration moves forward, it could lead to deeper integration of stablecoin technology in Pakistan’s financial sector, driving innovation in digital finance.

This article was originally published as Pakistan Taps Trump-Linked Firm for Stablecoin Payments on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitwise has rolled out its new Chainlink exchange-traded fund (ETF), trading under the ticker CLNK on NYSE Arca. This move offers investors a regulated route to gain exposure to Chainlink (LINK) without directly holding the tokens. The approval of the ETF provides institutional investors with a convenient and secure way to add LINK to their portfolios through standard brokerage accounts. The fund, tracking the spot price of Chainlink, aims to simplify access for those looking to invest in digital assets through traditional financial vehicles.

The ETF comes with a 0.34% management fee, but it waives this fee for the first three months or until the fund reaches $500 million in assets. As part of its security measures, Bitwise has partnered with Coinbase Custody to store the Chainlink tokens in segregated institutional cold wallets. The fund’s net asset value is based on the CME CF Chainlink-Dollar Reference rate, ensuring it aligns with commodity indices used by regulated crypto ETFs.

Institutional Interest Grows in LINK Exposure

The Bitwise Chainlink ETF follows the introduction of Grayscale’s GLNK ETF, which sparked competition in the growing market for Chainlink ETFs. These products are slowly attracting institutional capital, signaling increasing interest in LINK. As of now, the cumulative investment in LINK ETFs stands at around $64 million, with total assets amounting to $88 million. Interestingly, while recent sessions showed no notable change in the inflow of capital, the lack of outflows indicates that institutions are holding their positions, a sign of long-term commitment.

Bitwise has indicated that it will not stake the assets in the ETF at launch. However, the company plans to file for the ability to stake the assets once it secures the necessary regulatory approvals. This approach lowers initial costs and minimizes risks associated with token custody, further enhancing the appeal for institutional investors. The absence of staking at the outset also gives the fund a more flexible structure, aligning it with traditional financial products.

Chainlink’s Price Reacts to ETF Launch

In line with the ETF’s rollout, Chainlink’s market price showed positive movement. LINK traded at approximately $14.25, up slightly from $14.04 in the previous session. The increase came after a sharp intraday reversal, where the price initially dipped below $13.90 before bouncing back. This resilience in the price movement highlights the confidence among investors, as many view the ETF as a signal of growing regulated access to cryptocurrency markets.

Market participants typically watch price action closely following the launch of ETFs, as it often reflects investor sentiment. The positive price movement of Chainlink is seen as a direct response to the improved access brought by the ETF, reinforcing the belief that regulated products like this can lead to price stability and growth.

This article was originally published as Bitwise Launches Chainlink ETF, Boosting Institutional Access to LINK on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin ETFs Experience Notable Inflows, Signaling Renewed Investor Confidence

Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have recorded positive inflows over three consecutive days, reversing earlier declines observed in early January. The recent surge highlights growing investor interest and a tentative shift in market sentiment, coinciding with Bitcoin’s upward momentum and increasing bullish indicators.

Key Takeaways

Spot Bitcoin ETF inflows reached over $843.6 million on Wednesday, marking the largest single-day inflow of 2026.

During the three-day streak, ETFs attracted more than $1.7 billion, offsetting previous outflows of approximately $1.4 billion.

Bitcoin’s price exceeded $97,000, reaching its highest level in two months and fueling investor optimism.

BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF led daily inflows with over $648 million, showcasing institutional commitment.

Tickers mentioned: BTC

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Positive. The inflows and price rally reflect increased investor confidence and market momentum.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The current rise suggests potential for further gains, but markets remain volatile and should be approached cautiously.

Market context: The renewed inflows are part of a broader trend of institutional adoption and growing interest in crypto assets amid improving sentiment and macroeconomic conditions.

Market Dynamics and Investor Sentiment

Bitcoin ETFs have experienced a significant turnaround early this year, with inflows totaling approximately $1.5 billion across the first nine trading days of January. This marks a stark contrast to prior outflows, signaling renewed confidence among institutional and retail investors alike. Notably, Tuesday recorded inflows of $754 million—the largest since October—according to data from SoSoValue.

The surge coincided with Bitcoin surpassing $97,000, the highest level since mid-November, before pulling back marginally to around $96,642 at the time of writing, based on Coinbase data. The rally has contributed to a positive shift in market sentiment, exemplified by the Crypto Fear & Greed Index climbing to 61, entering ‘greed’ territory for the first time in months.

Leading ETF providers have driven these inflows, with BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF initiating over $648 million of new investments. Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund and other funds such as ARK 21Shares and Bitwise Bitcoin ETF have also contributed significantly to the inflows, demonstrating strong institutional backing.

This trend underscores a broader market shift, as Bitcoin appears to be regaining credibility among investors, supported by macroeconomic factors, technological developments, and a more favorable regulatory environment. As Bitcoin continues to test new highs, the increasing flow into ETFs underscores growing mainstream acceptance of digital assets as viable investment options.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin ETFs Surge With $840M Inflows as BTC Soars Above $97K on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Expert predicts Bitcoin to Reach New Highs Amid Anticipated Monetary Expansion

Despite underperforming against gold and technology stocks in recent years, Bitcoin is poised for a bullish surge according to influential industry expert Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX. Hayes suggests that expanding monetary conditions in the United States could catalyze a significant rally for the flagship cryptocurrency in the coming years.

Key Takeaways

Hayes forecasts Bitcoin reaching new all-time highs, driven by increased dollar liquidity.

Expansion of the US Federal Reserve’s balance sheet via monetary easing is a key catalyst.

Geopolitical and military expenditures are expected to sustain monetary expansion trends.

Bitcoin’s value is closely linked to fiat currency debasement and global liquidity dynamics.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Positive. The outlook of enhanced liquidity and monetary easing indicates potential upward momentum for Bitcoin.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The anticipated monetary expansion could propel Bitcoin towards new highs, but caution remains advised given past market volatility.

Market context: The broader macroeconomic environment continues to favor risk assets amid ongoing monetary policies.

Analyst Highlights Bitcoin’s Future Amid Macro Trends

Arthur Hayes emphasizes that Bitcoin’s future trajectory is intricately tied to macroeconomic movements, particularly monetary policy actions by the US Federal Reserve. His analysis suggests that if dollar liquidity continues to expand through measures like “money printing,” Bitcoin could experience a “drastic increase,” potentially reaching historic highs by 2026.

Hayes points to several catalysts underpinning this potential surge. These include the Fed’s ongoing balance sheet expansion, falling mortgage rates as liquidity loosens, and increased lending to strategic industries backed by the US government. Such measures are likely to bolster the risk-on environment, which traditionally benefits Bitcoin.

He notes that although Bitcoin faced a 14.4% decline in 2025, the broader crypto market’s performance was heavily influenced by liquidity constraints. Conversely, gold soared 44.4% over the same period, illustrating divergent asset responses to macroeconomic shifts. Hayes highlights that Bitcoin remains fundamentally a monetary technology, its value rooted in fiat currency debasement.

Bitcoin experienced a 12.2% increase over the past month, reflecting renewed investor interest. Source: CoinMarketCap

Hayes concludes that for Bitcoin to approach $100,000 per coin, relentless fiat currency debasement is a prerequisite. Despite recent setbacks, his outlook remains optimistic, positioning Bitcoin as a key beneficiary of ongoing macroeconomic policies focused on monetary expansion and strategic government spending.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Hits New Highs: How Upcoming Monetary Expansion Could Boost Prices on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin Derivatives Market Signals Deleveraging Ahead of Potential Recovery

Recent trends in Bitcoin derivatives markets suggest a period of deleveraging, which could pave the way for a stronger market base and potential bullish recovery. According to CryptoQuant, the decline in open interest over the past three months indicates that market participants are unwinding risky positions, helping to reduce systemic risk and set the stage for sustainable growth.

Data shows that open interest in Bitcoin derivatives has decreased by approximately 31% since October, signaling a de-risking phase. CryptoQuant’s analysis emphasizes that such reductions in leverage often coincide with market bottoms, effectively resetting the trading environment and fostering a more robust foundation for future rallies. Crypto analyst “Darkfost” noted that historically, significant drops in open interest have marked key market bottoms, which could be a positive sign for investors seeking a potential turnaround.

However, caution remains. Darkfost highlighted that if Bitcoin’s price continues to decline and the bear market deepens, open interest could contract further. This extended deleveraging would likely signal ongoing capitulation, delaying any recovery. Open interest, representing unsettled derivatives contracts, serves as a key indicator of market sentiment. The unwinding of risky leveraged positions can prevent sharp selloffs and reduce cascading liquidations, as was seen during the October 10 crash.

Bitcoin open interest has fallen more than 30% since October. Source: CryptoQuant

Historic Surge in Bitcoin Open Interest

In 2025, Bitcoin’s open interest tripled compared to previous levels, driven by heightened speculative activity. Last year’s surge saw open interest peak at over $15 billion on October 6, a stark increase from the $5.7 billion recorded at the market peak in November 2021. This nearly threefold growth reflects renewed trader enthusiasm and increased leverage entering the market.

During recent price rallies, declining open interest often indicates short positions are being liquidated or closed, leading to a squeeze on bearish traders. This dynamic reduces selling pressure and suggests that spot buying is the primary driver behind recent price gains, which have increased nearly 10% since the start of the year. Such a scenario supports a more sustainable rally, free from excessive leverage-driven volatility.

Market Conditions Remain Cautious

Despite the rise in spot prices, the overall derivatives market remains cautious. Total Bitcoin open interest across exchanges stands at approximately $65 billion, down around 28% from early October’s peak of over $90 billion. Notably, on Deribit, Bitcoin options with a strike price of $100,000 hold a notional value of $2.2 billion, indicating bullish sentiment among traders, with more long bets than shorts.

Nevertheless, market analysts note that the derivatives environment has not yet transitioned into a fundamentally bull phase. The current posture appears reactive, driven by recent surges rather than a shift in long-term sentiment. Experts suggest that a true bull market in derivatives will require more sustained structural bullish signals before traders can confidently expect a broader rally to unfold.

This article was originally published as Bitcoin Open Interest Drops 31% — Strong Bullish Deleveraging Signal on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

As regulatory pressure intensifies worldwide, issues such as geopolitics, cybersecurity, and tax enforcement are becoming increasingly interconnected with the digital economy.

For companies operating across borders, including those in crypto, blockchain, and emerging technologies, understanding the evolving disputes and investigations landscape is no longer optional.

In this context, leading global law firm Baker McKenzie has released its annual Global Disputes Forecast, highlighting the key risks organizations expect to face in 2026, from cross-border investigations to cybersecurity and tax-related disputes.

Below is Baker McKenzie’s full outlook on how these forces are shaping the year ahead.

Leading global law firm Baker McKenzie has published its annual Global Disputes Forecast, highlighting the challenges of operating in a global environment. Geopolitical pressures are heavily influencing dispute risks, and 82% of organizations are concerned about being subject to a cross-border or multiagency investigation in 2026. In addition, respondents point to cybersecurity and tax as their top dispute and investigation risk areas this year across a diverse, high-stakes risk portfolio.

The Firm’s Forecast, now in its ninth year, is based on a survey of 600 senior in-house lawyers from industry-leading multinationals across several sectors, including industrials, manufacturing and transportation; consumer goods and retail; healthcare and life sciences; technology, media and telecoms; financial institutions; and energy, mining and infrastructure.

Key Findings

The latest Global Disputes Forecast highlights that organizations are entering 2026 feeling disputes from all sides. Alongside technology-related risk and operational and supply chain disruption, geopolitics and trade policy are also central concerns, with 79% of respondents identifying tariffs, sanctions, and export controls as major external market factors increasing their exposure to disputes. This geopolitical reality is driving fears of cross-border and multi-agency investigations, with 82% of organizations worried about being subject to such scrutiny in the coming year. At the same time, threats across cybersecurity, tax, employment, and ESG disputes remain top of mind for legal leaders.

Sunny Mann, Global Chair of Baker McKenzie, said, “We find ourselves in a paradox. Organizations are more globally connected than ever, yet operating in an increasingly fragmented and unpredictable geopolitical environment that is fundamentally altering risk calculations.

The challenge for multinationals is that global integration, once seen as a hedge against risk, has become a vulnerability: supply chains cross contested borders, data flows encounter sovereignty barriers, and business relationships can become compliance liabilities overnight as political alignments shift.

A primary mitigation technique among our clients is one of diversification across supply chains, customer base, fund flows, data storage, and business and investment partners. Overreliance on a single party or market is a vulnerability.”

Addressing such an expansive set of risks necessitates a delicate balancing act as organizations manage competing pressures, often with increasingly limited resources. 38% of respondents say their disputes budget for 2026 is inadequate to meet current risk levels, with funding and resourcing constraints cited as the top barrier to litigation preparedness.

The Forecast also highlights that tax emerged as the second greatest area of concern for both disputes and investigations, likely attributed to the growing complexity of cross-border tax compliance, new international tax frameworks, and increased scrutiny from authorities, which are leading to more frequent and high-stakes tax controversies.

Key Disputes Trends: 2026 Snapshot

According to respondents, the following types of disputes present the greatest risk to their organization in 2026 (ranked by the percentage of respondents identifying the following as their single greatest risk):

Data privacy/cybersecurity: 18%

Tax: 12%

Trade sanctions/export controls: 11%

ESG: 9%

Employment: 8%

Product liability and consumer disputes: 7%

AI-related (e.g., bias, liability, misuse): 6%

Antitrust/competition: 6%

Commercial/contract: 6%

Intellectual property/patents/trademark: 6%

Brand/reputation: 6%

In 2026, organizations’ top risks for both disputes and investigations are the same— cybersecurity and tax.

Cybersecurity and data privacy disputes (18%) and investigations (17%) are now an inescapable reality of more digitized processes and operations in the face of an ever increasing and more complex cross-border regulatory matrix and cyber-attacks that grow in sophistication almost daily.

Tax emerged as both the second greatest dispute (12%) and investigations (11%) risk, reflecting the complexity of navigating cross-border tax compliance, transfer pricing scrutiny, and shifting international tax frameworks. For example, notwithstanding the January 5 Side-by-Side Package, which introduced a number of favorable safe harbors, the OECD’s Pillar Two global minimum tax will continue to add a layer of tax complexity worldwide for both US and non-US parented multi-nationals. The rollout of the global minimum tax has added layers of complexity, and jurisdictions around the world are still grappling with how to balance implementing the global tax mandate into domestic law and establishing effective and manageable reporting and compliance mechanisms. Additional concerns include developing the necessary skills to be able to administer and audit a regime that requires familiarity with the nuances of multiple accounting standards and domestic tax systems. Against this backdrop, businesses should prepare for Pillar Two disputes in all material jurisdictions.

Trade sanctions and export controls, ESG, and employment also ranked among the top concerns, emphasizing that, alongside urgent pressures, organizations are addressing a diverse portfolio of risks more broadly.

Technology, geopolitics, and supply chain disruption drive external disputes risk.

The rapid deployment of AI and the increasingly complex cybersecurity threats and data privacy regulations have made data-driven risk the top external driver of dispute exposure in 2026, with 80% of respondents citing it as a concern. Governments are seeking to shore up national security interests, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, water, food, technology, health, and financial services. This is prompting the creation of cyber laws that impose new reporting obligations, such as the EU’s NIS2 Directive, the US CIRCIA, and Singapore’s Cybersecurity Act. These laws require critical infrastructure operators to report major cyber incidents within a stipulated time frame to protect national security and essential services.

At the same time, 79% of organizations view geopolitics and trade policy as a threat, as sanctions, tariffs, and export controls disrupt global operations and create uncertainty in cross-border contracts and enforcement. Concerns over geopolitics and trade policy are felt particularly acutely in Germany (84%) and the UK (84%), reflecting the vulnerability of foreign trade-heavy economies.

Operational and supply chain disruption, a concern for 78% of respondents, also continues to test organizational resilience.

Resource constraints expose vulnerabilities in organizations’ risk-readiness

Over one-third, 38%, of organizations report that their 2026 disputes budget is insufficient to meet current risks, which can lead to slower and less effective responses to disputes. Organizations with limited resources struggle to investigate issues thoroughly, engage specialist counsel, or manage multiple cases at once. These constraints reduce flexibility and increase the risk of delayed or reactive decision-making when disputes escalate unexpectedly. Funding and resource constraints (55%) and inability to keep pace with regulatory developments (52%) have also emerged as organizations’ greatest barriers to litigation preparedness. Barriers such as addressing supply chain vulnerabilities (47%) are felt most acutely by sectors with complex and sensitive supply chains, such as industrials, manufacturing, and transportation.

Cross-border investigations pose a significant threat in 2026

A remarkable 82% of respondents fear that they may be subject to a cross-border investigation in 2026, while data preservation/forensics (52%) and cross-border coordination (48%) come out as the top areas organizations say present a challenge for their preparedness for investigations. This underlines a disconnect between the looming reality of cross-border investigation risk and organizations’ ability to overcome it. Concerns over the likelihood of being subject to a cross-border investigation are felt particularly acutely by respondents in Singapore (88%) and Hong Kong (85%). This is likely due to their positions as major regional hubs for cross-border trade, financial flows, and data movement, as well as a surge in whistleblowing activity in the Asia Pacific region.

Modern arbitration requires adapting to complexity.

International arbitration continues to be a cornerstone of cross-border dispute resolution, valued for its flexibility, neutrality, confidentiality, and enforceability across borders. In the medium term, organizations expect the greatest challenges for international arbitration to arise from digital transformation and data security, cost and duration, and geopolitical issues. Adoption and integration of technology and data security, particularly cybersecurity threats and the ethical use of AI, are expected to present challenges in areas such as virtual hearings, digital evidence management, and legal research.

About Baker McKenzie

Baker McKenzie’s 2026 Global Disputes Forecast surveyed 600 senior decision-makers with responsibility for, or with a key role in, disputes and investigations at large organizations (annual revenue greater than USD 500 million). Respondents are based in the US, the UK, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Brazil.

With more than 1,000 battle-tested lawyers specializing in disputes and investigations, who have roots in their home jurisdictions and deep sector knowledge, Baker McKenzie’s Dispute Resolution Practice is one of the largest and most recognized in the world. Consistently top-ranked by leading market surveys, the practice supports multinational clients with their most complex and business-critical challenges across the world, particularly high-stakes multijurisdictional disputes. The Firm’s cases frequently involve novel and precedent-setting issues in countries around the world, including markets where competing law firms do not have a local presence.

This article was originally published as Geopolitics and Trade Policy Expected to Shape the Disputes Landscape in 2026, According to Baker McKenzie Survey on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Crypto Industry Divided Over Market Structure Bill Amid Regulatory Uncertainty

The proposed market structure bill, known as the CLARITY Act, has ignited a debate among cryptocurrency executives and advocates. While some leaders support its efforts to establish clearer regulations, others, including Coinbase, have expressed significant reservations, citing concerns over potential overreach and restrictions that could hinder innovation.

Key Takeaways

The CLARITY Act aims to provide a more defined regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies in the US.

Industry leaders like Chris Dixon view the bill as a step toward protecting decentralization and fostering innovation.

Major industry players, notably Coinbase, oppose the bill’s current form, citing serious issues such as potential bans on tokenized equities and increased government surveillance.

The legislation’s progress has been delayed, with bipartisan efforts facing hurdles amid intense scrutiny.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH

Sentiment: Mixed / Cautiously optimistic

Price impact: Neutral — Bitcoin’s recent rally suggests investor optimism despite regulatory uncertainties.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold — Await clearer regulatory signals before making significant moves.

Market context: The discussions reflect broader uncertainty in the crypto space, with markets reacting to regulatory developments and potential policy shifts.

Legislative Backdrop Sparks Industry Debate

The CLARITY Act has become a focal point of discussion within the crypto community, especially after Coinbase announced it would withdraw support for the bill in its current draft. The company criticized the legislation for containing numerous issues, including a de facto ban on tokenized equities, restrictions on decentralized finance (DeFi), and provisions granting government unlimited access to financial records.

“There are too many issues, including a de facto ban on tokenized equities, DeFi prohibitions, giving the government unlimited access to your financial records, and removing your right to privacy,” Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong stated on social media. “This version would be materially worse than the current status quo.”

Other industry figures, such as Ryan Rasmussen of Bitwise Invest, echoed concerns, emphasizing that the bill could adversely affect tokenization, stablecoins, DeFi, and overall innovation. Legal experts like Jake Chervinsky also highlighted the potential for amendments during the legislative process to improve the bill before it becomes law.

Despite disagreements, some industry leaders support progressing the bill, arguing that swift regulatory clarity is essential for maintaining the US’s competitive edge.

Bitcoin’s Resilience Amid Regulatory Turmoil

Meanwhile, Bitcoin continues to demonstrate resilience, with recent rallies driven by renewed ETF interest and hopes for clearer regulatory frameworks. According to OKX Singapore CEO Gracie Lin, the cryptocurrency’s upward momentum indicates that markets are often ahead of policymakers in pricing potential outcomes.

Bitcoin briefly surged past $97,600 but later settled around $96,350, highlighting ongoing investor confidence despite ongoing legislative debates. Experts note that the cryptocurrency’s performance remains closely tied to evolving regulatory discussions and macroeconomic conditions.

This article was originally published as Crypto Industry Divided Over CLARITY Act Bill: Impact on Market Structure on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Legislative Uncertainty Clouds Crypto’s Future as US Senate Delays Action

The ongoing debate over the regulation of decentralized finance (DeFi) and stablecoin rewards in the proposed CLARITY Act is creating uncertainty within the US legislative landscape. Key stakeholders from banking and crypto sectors are divided, potentially impeding progress on crypto-friendly legislation. Recent developments suggest a delay in Senate proceedings, reflecting the contentious nature of proposed provisions.

Key Takeaways

Senator Cynthia Lummis indicates a likely postponement of the Senate markup on crypto legislation.

Coinbase withdraws support over industry-unfavorable text around stablecoin rewards and tokenized assets.

Legislation’s stalled progress could significantly impact crypto companies’ revenue streams and traditional banking operations.

Broader market implications include potential shifts in stablecoin adoption and regulatory oversight.

Tickers mentioned: $BTC, $ETH, $COIN

Crypto → $BTC, $ETH, $COIN

Sentiment: Bearish

Price impact: Negative. Regulatory delays and industry pushback increase uncertainty, potentially dampening market momentum.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. Cautiously observe regulatory developments before making any entry decisions.

Market context: Ongoing legislative battles underscore the increasing regulatory scrutiny faced by crypto markets amid broader institutional adoption and market growth concerns.

Legislative Developments and Industry Responses

Recent reports suggest that the Senate Banking Committee may postpone its scheduled markup of the crypto market structure legislation. Senator Cynthia Lummis, a notable advocate for crypto-friendly policies, is expected to recommend delaying the process, leaving Chair Tim Scott to decide. The Senate committee had planned to conduct a markup session on Thursday at 10:00 am Eastern Time, but sources indicate that the timing could shift.

Source: Steven Dennis

Coinbase publicly criticized the latest draft of the legislation, citing concerns that it would impose unfavorable restrictions on industry growth. The company explicitly challenged provisions related to stablecoin rewards, tokenized stocks, and government access to financial data, highlighting the risk of stifling innovation. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong emphasized the importance of passing effective regulation without sacrificing the industry’s integrity, noting, “This version would be materially worse than the current status quo. We’d rather have no bill than a bad bill.”

The legislation’s outcome is pivotal. Industry insiders warn that unfavorable regulations could severely impact revenue, with Coinbase alone earning hundreds of millions from stablecoins and blockchain rewards. Conversely, advocates for stricter rules argue that widespread stablecoin adoption could siphon trillions from traditional banking systems, making this legislative debate highly consequential for both sectors.

As the regulatory landscape remains uncertain, the crypto market faces heightened volatility. Industry leaders and policymakers are at a crossroads, balancing innovation with oversight amidst an evolving geopolitical and economic backdrop.

This article was originally published as US Senator Suggests Crypto Market Regulation Bill Could Be Delayed on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Stable Recovery After Sui Blockchain Outage, Network Incidents Renew Concerns

The Sui Layer-1 blockchain experienced a significant service disruption, marking its second major outage since launching in May 2023. The outage, which lasted nearly six hours, temporarily halted transactions and restricted over a billion dollars in on-chain value, raising questions about the network’s resilience and security protocols.

Key Takeaways

The network outage was caused by a “Consensus outage,” although the Sui Foundation did not specify the exact trigger.

Developers swiftly addressed the issue, restoring full functionality within approximately six hours.

This incident is the second major disruption in Sui’s brief history, with previous issues dating back to November 2024.

Despite mounting outages, the token experienced a brief 4% surge amidst the chaos, settling near its prior levels.

Tickers mentioned: $SUI

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Neutral. The token’s price briefly surged on outage news but quickly stabilized, reflecting market uncertainty.

Market context: The incident underscores ongoing challenges faced by high-speed layer-1 blockchains, amid a broader landscape of network stability concerns.

Details of the Outage and Response

The disruption was first confirmed by the Sui Foundation on Wednesday afternoon at 3:24 pm UTC, when they announced that core developers were actively working to resolve the issue. The network, which had been functioning smoothly prior, experienced a “Consensus outage” that impaired transaction processing and halted activities across the platform, which handles assets valued at over $1 billion.

Investigation timelines show the issue was detected around 2:52 pm UTC, with the problem resolved approximately 5 hours and 52 minutes later at 8:44 pm UTC. During this period, users were unable to execute transactions, raising concerns among investors and developers alike.

Historical Context and Broader Implications

This recent outage follows a prior incident in November 2024, indicating ongoing stability challenges for Sui’s rapidly developed infrastructure. Compared to Solana, which has experienced similar issues in the past but has not faced outages for over a year, Sui’s recurrent problems spotlight the difficulties of maintaining high-performance networks under rapid growth.

Solana has implemented emergency updates, empowering validators to coordinate for critical fixes, which has helped prevent outages. Meanwhile, the Sui Foundation has yet to disclose a detailed root cause or preventive measures, fueling debate about the long-term scalability and security of the platform.

Market Reaction

While SUI’s token price initially spiked by 4% as the outage was announced, the rally was short-lived. The token mostly traded around $1.84 following the event, indicating that the market’s response is still uncertain and reactive to ongoing developments.

This article was originally published as Sui Blockchain Bounces Back After 6-Hour Network Downtime on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Bitcoin Faces Cautious Momentum Amid Geopolitical and Market Uncertainties

Bitcoin recently surged past $97,000, reaching levels not seen in over 60 days, buoyed by significant inflows into spot Bitcoin ETFs. However, despite the upward momentum, market analysis suggests that broader risks and derivative market signals temper expectations for sustained gains. Investors remain wary amid geopolitical tensions, declining treasury yields, and subdued equity performance, constraining Bitcoin’s upward potential in the near term.

Key Takeaways

Bitcoin’s recent rally above $97,000 is not yet confirmed by derivatives indicators, with options skew signaling caution amongst traders.

Geopolitical tensions, especially involving Iran protests and US foreign policy plans, contribute to heightened risk aversion.

Falling US treasury yields and a weaker Nasdaq Index point to a risk-off environment that limits speculative upside.

Market sentiment remains mixed, with professional traders displaying skepticism over a quick push beyond $105,000.

Tickers mentioned: Bitcoin, Nasdaq

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Negative. The overall risk environment and derivative signals suggest limited momentum for sustained bullish runs.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. Given prevailing uncertainties, it’s prudent to observe further confirmations before committing new positions.

Market context: These developments come amid broader macroeconomic pressures and geopolitical tensions, influencing investor confidence across asset classes.

Market Dynamics and Technical Indicators

Bitcoin’s price has climbed past $97,000 following an influx of approximately $840 million into spot Bitcoin ETFs over two days. Despite this, the futures and options markets paint a cautious picture. The options delta skew remains at 4%, unchanged from a week earlier, signaling persistent skepticism among institutional traders regarding a rapid rally beyond the $100,000 mark.

Market participants have encountered substantial liquidations, with leveraged short positions totaling $370 million over two days— the highest since October 2025. This tumult reflects traders’ cautious stance and the influence of macro factors beyond crypto-specific catalysts. Notably, geopolitical tensions—specifically protests in Iran and US threats of tariffs—have led to a risk-averse environment, reducing appetite for speculative assets.

BTC futures liquidations highlight market volatility affecting short-term trader positions.

Yields on the US 2-year Treasury fell to 3.51%, reflecting investor preference for safer assets amid inflation concerns. Meanwhile, equity markets show continued weakness, with the Nasdaq failing to reclaim the 26,000 levels seen in early November 2025. This environment underscores the broader risk-off sentiment impacting Bitcoin’s prospects.

Amid these macro and geopolitical concerns, notable figures like Warren Buffett have expressed worry over the uncertain future of artificial intelligence and its broader economic implications, further amplifying cautious investor sentiment. Berkshire Hathaway’s cash holdings surged past $381.7 billion, indicating a preference for safety and liquidity.

In summary, while Bitcoin’s recent price action hints at potential upside, multiple market indicators and external risks point toward a cautious approach. Traders and investors remain vigilant, awaiting clearer signals that could confirm a sustained rally beyond current resistance levels.

This article was originally published as Why a Bitcoin Surge to $105K Is Unlikely Amid Global Economic Challenges on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Crypto Miners Shift Focus Toward Artificial Intelligence and High-Performance Computing

As Bitcoin mining firms grapple with rising operational costs and increasing difficulty, many are pivoting toward emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC). Recent developments highlight this trend, with major players investing in infrastructure and strategic assets to capitalize on new growth avenues.

Key Takeaways

CleanSpark acquires 447 acres in Texas to develop a scalable data center aimed at AI and HPC workloads.

Industry-wide diversification as companies like MARA Holdings, Core Scientific, Hut 8, Riot Platforms, and TeraWulf repurpose infrastructure for AI and HPC purposes.

Some miners explore sustainable initiatives, such as Canaan’s project providing computing heat for greenhouses.

Bitcoin mining difficulty hit record highs in 2025, prompting firms to seek alternative revenue streams amid escalating costs.

Tickers mentioned:
Crypto → $BTC, $ETH
Companies → MicroStrategy (NASDAQ: MSTR), Riot Platforms, Hut 8, Core Scientific, TeraWulf, MARA Holdings

Sentiment: Neutral

Price impact: Neutral. The shift towards AI and HPC infrastructure indicates strategic diversification amidst challenging mining conditions.

Market context: The broader industry is adapting to increased difficulty and high energy costs by exploring innovative and sustainable business models.

Transition from Traditional Crypto Mining

Bitcoin mining company CleanSpark has announced a significant expansion into artificial intelligence and high-performance computing through a strategic land purchase in Brazoria County, Texas. The company plans to develop a 300 MW data center, with potential expansion up to 600 MW, designed specifically for AI and HPC workloads. The move aligns with industry confrontations with rising energy demands and constrained transmission infrastructure. Details here.

As the mining sector faces increasing difficulty—bitcoin difficulty peaked at approximately 156 trillion in November 2025—many companies are diversifying. Industry leaders such as MARA Holdings, Core Scientific, Hut 8, Riot Platforms, and TeraWulf have repurposed or expanded their infrastructure to pursue AI and HPC projects, seeking new revenue streams amid ongoing operational challenges.

Source: CleanSpark

Meanwhile, sustainability initiatives are gaining traction; Canadian Bitcoin miner Canaan announced a program to utilize computing heat for greenhouse agriculture, exemplifying innovative efforts to reduce emissions and operational costs. Read more here.

Industry Challenges and Future Outlook

Bitcoin’s rising network difficulty, reaching record highs of 156 trillion in 2025, has increased the cost of mining operations, prompting companies to explore diversification. The industry’s pivot toward AI and HPC signifies a strategic response to ongoing challenges, balancing operational costs with potential new revenue sources amid broader market shifts.

This article was originally published as CleanSpark Expands into AI & HPC with Strategic Acquisition in Bitcoin Mining on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Ethereum’s Fundamentals Outlook Signals Potential Revaluation by 2026

Despite recent price stagnation, Ethereum’s underlying fundamentals show signs of robust growth that could lead to a reassessment of its value in the coming years. Ethereum’s CEO Vivek Raman highlights that the current market price does not fully reflect the network’s expanding capabilities and adoption metrics, suggesting a potential upward trajectory by 2026.

Key Takeaways

Ethereum’s on-chain activity and developer engagement continue to grow steadily despite stagnant price levels.

The upcoming advancements, including network upgrades and scaling solutions, are poised to strengthen Ethereum’s position.

Market sentiment remains cautious but increasingly optimistic about Ethereum’s longer-term prospects.

Analysts suggest that the current valuation may undervalue Ethereum’s true potential by 2026.

Tickers mentioned: Ethereum (ETH)

Sentiment: Bullish

Price impact: Neutral. While the price remains subdued, fundamentals point toward potential future appreciation.

Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The current market conditions suggest maintaining positions until upcoming upgrades potentially catalyze a rally.

Market context: Rising on-chain activity and technological upgrades position Ethereum for long-term growth amid broader crypto market stabilization.

Ethereum’s recent price performance has raised questions about its valuation relative to its fundamental health. Vivek Raman, CEO of Etherealize, argues that despite the token’s apparent lag in market price, underlying metrics tell a different story. On-chain activity, including transaction volume and network activity, has shown consistent growth, indicating increased adoption and developer participation.

Furthermore, Ethereum’s upcoming upgrades, particularly the transition to Ethereum 2.0 and enhancements in scalability through layer-2 solutions, are expected to improve network efficiency and reduce transaction costs. These developments could significantly bolster user engagement and institutional interest, potentially driving demand for ETH in the long term.

Market analysts caution that the current price may undervalue Ethereum’s fundamental strengths and future potential. They suggest that traders and investors should consider the underlying network improvements and growth metrics as signals of a possible significant revaluation by 2026.

Overall, Ethereum’s fundamentals support a bullish outlook, especially as technical upgrades and increasing decentralized application adoption are set to enhance the network’s utility and value proposition. While short-term market conditions remain cautious, the narrative for Ethereum’s long-term growth remains compelling, positioning it as a key player in the evolving crypto ecosystem.

This article was originally published as Ether’s Price vs. Fundamentals Gap Could Signal 2026 Breakout Opportunity on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.

Key Insights

KB Card patent enables stablecoin spending while preserving existing credit card functions

Hybrid payment model aligns with South Korea’s evolving stablecoin regulatory framework 

KB Card strengthens digital payment strategy through blockchain wallet integration

KB Card filed a patent to combine stablecoin spending with existing credit card payments through a single hybrid system. The filing highlights a practical structure that supports digital asset use without changing merchant acceptance processes. Therefore, the move positions KB Card within South Korea’s expanding digital payment and regulatory landscape.

Hybrid Payment Model Integrates Stablecoins With Cards

KB Card designed a hybrid payment system that links blockchain wallets directly to existing credit cards. The structure enables stablecoin balances to fund purchases before any remaining amount shifts to a credit line. As a result, transactions proceed smoothly while standard card functions remain active.

The patent describes a workflow that preserves traditional authorization and settlement steps. However, it adds a stablecoin layer that operates automatically during payment execution. Consequently, users retain card rewards and protections while accessing digital asset liquidity.

KB Card structured the model to function across current merchant networks without technical adjustments. The system processes payments using familiar infrastructure and backend logic. Therefore, the approach lowers barriers to stablecoin use within everyday commercial activity.

Patent Aligns With South Korea Stablecoin Regulation Efforts

KB Card submitted the patent as South Korea advances its Digital Asset Basic Act framework. The legislation aims to define issuance and usage rules for stablecoins, including tokens linked to the Korean won. Policymakers expect the framework to guide market activity during the year.

Regulators continue evaluating whether licensed banks should issue stablecoins through shared consortia. Financial groups monitor these discussions as authorities define operational and compliance standards. Meanwhile, debates persist over competition and access within the emerging payment ecosystem.

KB Card operates within a financial group that tracks stablecoin policy development closely. Related institutions have filed trademarks connected to digital currency initiatives. Therefore, the patent reflects broader institutional preparation for regulated stablecoin adoption.

KB Card Expands Strategy for Digital Payment Infrastructure

KB Card continues developing tools that connect blockchain functionality with established financial systems. The patent outlines a flexible settlement process that adapts to future regulatory requirements. Accordingly, the company strengthens its readiness for evolving payment rules.

The proposed system supports automatic fund selection between wallets and credit accounts. This design enables real time settlement choices without user intervention. As a result, payment flows remain efficient and predictable.

KB Card frames the patent as a long term infrastructure step rather than a limited experiment. The company emphasizes practical deployment within regulated boundaries. Ultimately, the filing marks progress in South Korea’s transition toward integrated digital payment models.

This article was originally published as KB Card Files Patent to Blend Stablecoins With Traditional Credit Card Payments on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.