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Ray Dalio issues stark warning on the global order
Gold vs Bitcoin: Which one is a better store of value? (2:59)
Billionaire investor Ray Dalio says the post–World War II global order has officially broken down.
In a recent post on X, the Bridgewater Associates founder argued that both internal and external disorder are accelerating simultaneously. He described the world entering a “law of the jungle” phase in which power determines outcomes instead of rules.
According to Dalio, major powers are now trapped in a persistent “prisoner’s dilemma,” forced to escalate across trade, technology, capital markets, and even military tensions.
The danger, he warned, is that these dynamics make what he calls “stupid wars” frighteningly easy to trigger.
Related: Billionaire Ray Dalio warns banks are losing confidence in fiat
World is experiencing a new form of warfare
Dalio said leaders at the recent Munich Security Conference openly acknowledged that the post-1945 framework is no longer functioning. In its place, he sees a return to a power rivalry driven less by international law and more by relative strength.
In this environment, tactics such as sanctions, asset freezes, capital market restrictions, and embargoes become central tools of statecraft.
These measures are maybe short of open warfare, but they are economic weapons that expose how dependent traditional savings and payment systems are on political discretion.
Dalio argues that when the most powerful countries can freeze assets or restrict access to financial infrastructure, the global system begins to resemble a fragmented landscape rather than a cooperative order.
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Internal stress fuels external conflict
External tensions rarely develop in isolation. Dalio’s framework emphasizes how geopolitical strain often collides with domestic economic stress.
When growth slows and wealth gaps widen, governments tend to respond with higher taxes and large increases in money creation, rather than explicit defaults. Historically, that approach devalues existing claims and weakens purchasing power.
Dalio cited the example of the World Wars, when money and credit were not commonly accepted between non-allied countries. This was because of a "justifiable wariness" about a currency's value.
At that time, precious metals like gold, silver, or, in some cases, barter, were "the coin of the realm."
While highlighting the pains of protecting one's wealth during times of war, he advised,
"As for investing, sell out of all debt and buy gold because wars are financed by borrowing and printing money, which devalues debt and money, and because there is a justifiable reluctance to accept credit."
Ray Dalio (Source: Getty Images)
Crypto investors renew the neutral money case
While Dalio openly vouches for gold in such times of crisis, for crypto advocates, his warning reinforces a familiar thesis.
As governments rely more heavily on sanctions, asset freezes, and money creation, investors may increasingly look to assets like gold that can operate outside state control.
Bitcoin (BTC) maximalists vouch for it as the next best candidate. It is often framed as apolitical and borderless, which does not rely on a centralized intermediary like a government or a central bank.
As concerns over dollar debasement intensified last October, Google searches for “Bitcoin” and “dollar debasement” surged to record levels.
At the same time, financial advisors and institutions are increasingly embracing digital assets.
However, in recent years, Bitcoin has also shown volatility to macroeconomic factors like Federal Reserve's rate decisions, geopolitical tensions, and even elections.
At press time, Bitcoin was trading at $67,685.37, still reeling from the ripples of the massive liquidation on Oct. 10.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment or financial decisions.
Related: Ray Dalio: If Bitcoin Is Successful, Government Will ‘Kill It’
Billionaire investor Ray Dalio says the post–World War II global order has officially broken down.
In a recent post on X, the Bridgewater Associates founder argued that both internal and external disorder are accelerating simultaneously. He described the world entering a “law of the jungle” phase in which power determines outcomes instead of rules.
According to Dalio, major powers are now trapped in a persistent “prisoner’s dilemma,” forced to escalate across trade, technology, capital markets, and even military tensions.
The danger, he warned, is that these dynamics make what he calls “stupid wars” frighteningly easy to trigger.
Related: Billionaire Ray Dalio warns banks are losing confidence in fiat
World is experiencing a new form of warfare
Dalio said leaders at the recent Munich Security Conference openly acknowledged that the post-1945 framework is no longer functioning. In its place, he sees a return to a power rivalry driven less by international law and more by relative strength.
In this environment, tactics such as sanctions, asset freezes, capital market restrictions, and embargoes become central tools of statecraft.
These measures are maybe short of open warfare, but they are economic weapons that expose how dependent traditional savings and payment systems are on political discretion.
Dalio argues that when the most powerful countries can freeze assets or restrict access to financial infrastructure, the global system begins to resemble a fragmented landscape rather than a cooperative order.
Popular on TheStreet Roundtable:
Select Americans receive $1,200 in monthly payments as rents soar
Another company makes a U.S. comeback
Gold, silver, S&P 500, crypto crash again amid extreme fear
Internal stress fuels external conflict
External tensions rarely develop in isolation. Dalio’s framework emphasizes how geopolitical strain often collides with domestic economic stress.
When growth slows and wealth gaps widen, governments tend to respond with higher taxes and large increases in money creation, rather than explicit defaults. Historically, that approach devalues existing claims and weakens purchasing power.
Dalio cited the example of the World Wars, when money and credit were not commonly accepted between non-allied countries. This was because of a "justifiable wariness" about a currency's value.
At that time, precious metals like gold, silver, or, in some cases, barter, were "the coin of the realm."
While highlighting the pains of protecting one's wealth during times of war, he advised,
"As for investing, sell out of all debt and buy gold because wars are financed by borrowing and printing money, which devalues debt and money, and because there is a justifiable reluctance to accept credit."
Ray Dalio (Source: Getty Images)
Crypto investors renew the neutral money case
While Dalio openly vouches for gold in such times of crisis, for crypto advocates, his warning reinforces a familiar thesis.
As governments rely more heavily on sanctions, asset freezes, and money creation, investors may increasingly look to assets like gold that can operate outside state control.
Bitcoin (BTC) maximalists vouch for it as the next best candidate. It is often framed as apolitical and borderless, which does not rely on a centralized intermediary like a government or a central bank.
As concerns over dollar debasement intensified last October, Google searches for “Bitcoin” and “dollar debasement” surged to record levels.
At the same time, financial advisors and institutions are increasingly embracing digital assets.
However, in recent years, Bitcoin has also shown volatility to macroeconomic factors like Federal Reserve's rate decisions, geopolitical tensions, and even elections.
At press time, Bitcoin was trading at $67,685.37, still reeling from the ripples of the massive liquidation on Oct. 10.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment or financial decisions.
Related: Ray Dalio: If Bitcoin Is Successful, Government Will ‘Kill It’
CoinVoice 最新获悉，据金十报道，美联储戴利表示，需要确保劳动力市场的脆弱性不会演变为实质性疲软。[原文链接]
CoinVoice 最新获悉，据金十报道，美联储理事巴尔表示，前景暗示美联储将在一段时间内维持利率不变。[原文链接]
Germany’s Bundesbank Chief Backs Euro Stablecoins as Europe Pursues Payment Sovereignty
TLDR:
Bundesbank President Nagel endorsed euro stablecoins as low-cost tools for cross-border payments across Europe.
The digital euro will become the first pan-European retail payment solution built on solely European infrastructure.
A wholesale CBDC is in development to enable programmable central bank money payments for financial institutions.
Nagel warned Europe can no longer rely on transatlantic cooperation and rules-based order as it once did.
Germany’s Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel has publicly endorsed euro-denominated stablecoins as a viable tool for cross-border payments.
Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany on February 16, 2026, in Frankfurt, Nagel outlined a broader vision for European financial sovereignty.
His remarks covered payment system independence, regulatory reform, and capital market integration. The endorsement marks a notable shift in tone from a senior European central banker on private digital assets.
Nagel Makes the Case for Euro-Denominated Stablecoins
Euro stablecoins, according to Nagel, can facilitate cross-border payments for individuals and firms at lower cost. This positions them as practical instruments rather than speculative assets.
The focus is specifically on euro-denominated instruments that reinforce European monetary control. By framing stablecoins within a sovereignty narrative, Nagel separates them from broader crypto market concerns.
The endorsement did not come in isolation. Nagel stated that the Eurosystem is actively working toward a retail central bank digital currency.
He described it as “the first pan-European retail digital payment solution, based solely on European infrastructures.” Euro stablecoins, in his view, serve a complementary role alongside this public infrastructure.
Work on a wholesale CBDC is also advancing in parallel. Nagel noted that “a wholesale CBDC would allow financial institutions to make programmable payments in central bank money.”
Together, the retail CBDC, wholesale CBDC, and euro stablecoins form a layered European digital payments ecosystem. Each instrument serves a distinct purpose within that framework.
The core argument is that Europe must reduce its dependence on foreign-controlled payment networks. Currently, major digital payment solutions used across the EU rely heavily on US-based providers.
Euro stablecoins offer a market-driven complement to public infrastructure in closing that gap. Nagel’s endorsement lends institutional credibility to that path forward.
Broader European Reforms Back the Digital Payments Push
The stablecoin endorsement fits within a wider agenda to strengthen the international role of the euro. Nagel outlined three reform priorities: regulatory simplification, the Savings and Investments Union, and euro payment sovereignty.
He described this as “an ambitious programme” that he regards as “essential to successfully overcoming the current challenges.” Each priority connects to the others in building a more resilient European economy.
Regulatory complexity remains a known obstacle to growth and investment across Europe. Nagel referenced reports by Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi calling for streamlined EU rules.
He stressed that “it is not their mere existence that causes problems” but rather “their extraordinary complexity and rigidity.” An ECB High-Level Task Force on simplifying financial regulation is active, with Nagel serving as a member.
Capital market fragmentation across member states continues to limit private investment. Nagel pointed out that “a high degree of economic fragmentation still remains” despite over 30 years of the single market.
The Savings and Investments Union was presented as the key mechanism to address this gap. High European savings, he argued, “could be better channelled into fostering innovation, productivity and competitiveness.”
Transatlantic trade remains substantial, with the EU and US together representing 44% of global GDP. However, Europe is clearly preparing for a world where that partnership carries more uncertainty.
Nagel was direct in saying, “we cannot rely on transatlantic cooperation and the rules-based international order to the same extent as before.”
His support for euro stablecoins reflects that broader repositioning of European financial policy toward greater independence.
The post Germany’s Bundesbank Chief Backs Euro Stablecoins as Europe Pursues Payment Sovereignty appeared first on Blockonomi.
Bundesbank President Nagel endorsed euro stablecoins as low-cost tools for cross-border payments across Europe.
The digital euro will become the first pan-European retail payment solution built on solely European infrastructure.
A wholesale CBDC is in development to enable programmable central bank money payments for financial institutions.
Nagel warned Europe can no longer rely on transatlantic cooperation and rules-based order as it once did.
Germany’s Bundesbank President Joachim Nagel has publicly endorsed euro-denominated stablecoins as a viable tool for cross-border payments.
Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany on February 16, 2026, in Frankfurt, Nagel outlined a broader vision for European financial sovereignty.
His remarks covered payment system independence, regulatory reform, and capital market integration. The endorsement marks a notable shift in tone from a senior European central banker on private digital assets.
Nagel Makes the Case for Euro-Denominated Stablecoins
Euro stablecoins, according to Nagel, can facilitate cross-border payments for individuals and firms at lower cost. This positions them as practical instruments rather than speculative assets.
The focus is specifically on euro-denominated instruments that reinforce European monetary control. By framing stablecoins within a sovereignty narrative, Nagel separates them from broader crypto market concerns.
The endorsement did not come in isolation. Nagel stated that the Eurosystem is actively working toward a retail central bank digital currency.
He described it as “the first pan-European retail digital payment solution, based solely on European infrastructures.” Euro stablecoins, in his view, serve a complementary role alongside this public infrastructure.
Work on a wholesale CBDC is also advancing in parallel. Nagel noted that “a wholesale CBDC would allow financial institutions to make programmable payments in central bank money.”
Together, the retail CBDC, wholesale CBDC, and euro stablecoins form a layered European digital payments ecosystem. Each instrument serves a distinct purpose within that framework.
The core argument is that Europe must reduce its dependence on foreign-controlled payment networks. Currently, major digital payment solutions used across the EU rely heavily on US-based providers.
Euro stablecoins offer a market-driven complement to public infrastructure in closing that gap. Nagel’s endorsement lends institutional credibility to that path forward.
Broader European Reforms Back the Digital Payments Push
The stablecoin endorsement fits within a wider agenda to strengthen the international role of the euro. Nagel outlined three reform priorities: regulatory simplification, the Savings and Investments Union, and euro payment sovereignty.
He described this as “an ambitious programme” that he regards as “essential to successfully overcoming the current challenges.” Each priority connects to the others in building a more resilient European economy.
Regulatory complexity remains a known obstacle to growth and investment across Europe. Nagel referenced reports by Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi calling for streamlined EU rules.
He stressed that “it is not their mere existence that causes problems” but rather “their extraordinary complexity and rigidity.” An ECB High-Level Task Force on simplifying financial regulation is active, with Nagel serving as a member.
Capital market fragmentation across member states continues to limit private investment. Nagel pointed out that “a high degree of economic fragmentation still remains” despite over 30 years of the single market.
The Savings and Investments Union was presented as the key mechanism to address this gap. High European savings, he argued, “could be better channelled into fostering innovation, productivity and competitiveness.”
Transatlantic trade remains substantial, with the EU and US together representing 44% of global GDP. However, Europe is clearly preparing for a world where that partnership carries more uncertainty.
Nagel was direct in saying, “we cannot rely on transatlantic cooperation and the rules-based international order to the same extent as before.”
His support for euro stablecoins reflects that broader repositioning of European financial policy toward greater independence.
The post Germany’s Bundesbank Chief Backs Euro Stablecoins as Europe Pursues Payment Sovereignty appeared first on Blockonomi.
Total RWA Value on Ethereum Surpasses USD 1.7 Billion, Up 315% Year-on-Year
The total value of tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) issued on the Ethereum blockchain has exceeded USD 1.7 billion, as major institutions such as BlackRock and JPMorgan Chase continue to migrate traditional funds onto blockchain infrastructure.
This figure represents an increase of nearly 315% compared to approximately USD 410 million recorded one year earlier, further reinforcing Ethereum’s position as the leading blockchain for tokenized finance.
At present, Ethereum accounts for roughly 34% of the total RWA value across all blockchain networks. Meanwhile, the total market capitalization of stablecoins on the Ethereum mainnet has risen above USD 175 billion, underscoring the network’s role as a primary settlement layer for USD-denominated tokenized assets.
$ETH
The total value of tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) issued on the Ethereum blockchain has exceeded USD 1.7 billion, as major institutions such as BlackRock and JPMorgan Chase continue to migrate traditional funds onto blockchain infrastructure.
This figure represents an increase of nearly 315% compared to approximately USD 410 million recorded one year earlier, further reinforcing Ethereum’s position as the leading blockchain for tokenized finance.
At present, Ethereum accounts for roughly 34% of the total RWA value across all blockchain networks. Meanwhile, the total market capitalization of stablecoins on the Ethereum mainnet has risen above USD 175 billion, underscoring the network’s role as a primary settlement layer for USD-denominated tokenized assets.
$ETH
Charles Schwab quietly boosts stake in MicroStrategy
Inside Michael Saylor's Bitcoin Strategy (4:18)
Institutional interest in MicroStrategy, now known as Strategy (NASDAQ: MSTR) appears to be intensifying despite Bitcoin crash.
Charles Schwab has reportedly increased its position in Michael Saylor's firm by purchasing an additional 91,859 shares, as per BitcoinTreasuries.NET.
The move brings the banking and brokerage giant’s total holdings to approximately 1.27 million shares, valued at roughly $168 million.
Related: Charles Schwab next in line for bitcoin ETF, analysts predict
Schwab expands exposure as Strategy doubles down
Strategy recently boosted its Bitcoin (BTC) holdings again, adding 2,486 BTC in a $168.4 million purchase. The company now holds 717,131 BTC in total.
It makes Strategy still the largest corporate Bitcoin holder globally.
However, the company’s financial statements show an inherent volatility in that strategy.
For the year ended Dec. 31, 2025, Strategy reported $5.40 billion in unrealized losses on digital assets, partially offset by a $1.55 billion deferred tax benefit. In the fourth quarter alone, unrealized losses reached $17.44 billion, alongside a $5.01 billion deferred tax benefit.
As of year-end, Strategy carried a deferred tax liability of $2.42 billion.
Meanwhile, MSTR shares have been under pressure. At press time, the stock was down 4.46% at $127.91, falling 18.61% year-to-date and 64.82% over the past six months.
Popular on TheStreet Roundtable:
Select Americans receive $1,200 in monthly payments as rents soar
Another company makes a U.S. comeback
Gold, silver, S&P 500, crypto crash again amid extreme fear
European bank makes MicroStrategy bet
Charles Schwab is not alone.
Italian banking giant Intesa Sanpaolo disclosed a sizable put option position tied to Strategy shares, valued at approximately $184.6 million.
However, Put options give the holder the right, but not the obligation, to sell shares at a predetermined price. The structure of Intesa’s position suggests a more nuanced trade, potentially betting on convergence between Strategy’s stock price and the value of its Bitcoin holdings.
The mNAV trade
Strategy has historically traded at a premium to the value of its Bitcoin reserves, a metric commonly measured by multiple of net asset value, or mNAV.
At press time, the company's mNAV stood at 1.19.
This means the company is valued at a 19% premium to the market value of its Bitcoin holdings. In practical terms, investors are paying $1.19 for every $1.00 worth of Bitcoin on Strategy’s balance sheet.
That premium reflects expectations around leverage, future Bitcoin purchases, capital markets strategy, or equity market demand.
If mNAV falls from 1.19 to 1.0, the stock price would decline even if Bitcoin’s price remains unchanged. In that scenario, put options and short positions would benefit, since they profit from a falling stock price.
However, there is a risk for such bearish positions. If Bitcoin rallies strongly, mNAV can expand again. In such cases, the stock often outperforms Bitcoin itself, creating sharp upward moves and even short squeezes.
Related: Michael Saylor finally addresses short-sellers as mNav drops
Institutional interest in MicroStrategy, now known as Strategy (NASDAQ: MSTR) appears to be intensifying despite Bitcoin crash.
Charles Schwab has reportedly increased its position in Michael Saylor's firm by purchasing an additional 91,859 shares, as per BitcoinTreasuries.NET.
The move brings the banking and brokerage giant’s total holdings to approximately 1.27 million shares, valued at roughly $168 million.
Related: Charles Schwab next in line for bitcoin ETF, analysts predict
Schwab expands exposure as Strategy doubles down
Strategy recently boosted its Bitcoin (BTC) holdings again, adding 2,486 BTC in a $168.4 million purchase. The company now holds 717,131 BTC in total.
It makes Strategy still the largest corporate Bitcoin holder globally.
However, the company’s financial statements show an inherent volatility in that strategy.
For the year ended Dec. 31, 2025, Strategy reported $5.40 billion in unrealized losses on digital assets, partially offset by a $1.55 billion deferred tax benefit. In the fourth quarter alone, unrealized losses reached $17.44 billion, alongside a $5.01 billion deferred tax benefit.
As of year-end, Strategy carried a deferred tax liability of $2.42 billion.
Meanwhile, MSTR shares have been under pressure. At press time, the stock was down 4.46% at $127.91, falling 18.61% year-to-date and 64.82% over the past six months.
Popular on TheStreet Roundtable:
Select Americans receive $1,200 in monthly payments as rents soar
Another company makes a U.S. comeback
Gold, silver, S&P 500, crypto crash again amid extreme fear
European bank makes MicroStrategy bet
Charles Schwab is not alone.
Italian banking giant Intesa Sanpaolo disclosed a sizable put option position tied to Strategy shares, valued at approximately $184.6 million.
However, Put options give the holder the right, but not the obligation, to sell shares at a predetermined price. The structure of Intesa’s position suggests a more nuanced trade, potentially betting on convergence between Strategy’s stock price and the value of its Bitcoin holdings.
The mNAV trade
Strategy has historically traded at a premium to the value of its Bitcoin reserves, a metric commonly measured by multiple of net asset value, or mNAV.
At press time, the company's mNAV stood at 1.19.
This means the company is valued at a 19% premium to the market value of its Bitcoin holdings. In practical terms, investors are paying $1.19 for every $1.00 worth of Bitcoin on Strategy’s balance sheet.
That premium reflects expectations around leverage, future Bitcoin purchases, capital markets strategy, or equity market demand.
If mNAV falls from 1.19 to 1.0, the stock price would decline even if Bitcoin’s price remains unchanged. In that scenario, put options and short positions would benefit, since they profit from a falling stock price.
However, there is a risk for such bearish positions. If Bitcoin rallies strongly, mNAV can expand again. In such cases, the stock often outperforms Bitcoin itself, creating sharp upward moves and even short squeezes.
Related: Michael Saylor finally addresses short-sellers as mNav drops
Expert Predicts BTC Could Drop to $10K Amidst Crypto Bubble Collapse
Bloomberg Intelligence's senior commodity strategist, Mike McGlone, warns that Bitcoin (BTC) may fall to $10,000 due to turbulence in the broader financial market. This market downturn is seen as part of a larger risk-asset unwind related to stocks, volatility cycles, and macro liquidity. McGlone's bearish outlook is based on several macro signals, including record-high U.S. stock market capitalization to GDP ratios, low volatility in major indices, and a significant rally in precious metals. Recent data supports this prediction with Bitcoin currently down nearly 28% over the past month. Despite the bearish outlook, long-term holders and major institutions are still investing in Bitcoin, with data showing accumulator addresses buying around 372,000 BTC per month, and Binance converting its $1 billion insurance reserve into Bitcoin.
Bloomberg Intelligence's senior commodity strategist, Mike McGlone, warns that Bitcoin (BTC) may fall to $10,000 due to turbulence in the broader financial market. This market downturn is seen as part of a larger risk-asset unwind related to stocks, volatility cycles, and macro liquidity. McGlone's bearish outlook is based on several macro signals, including record-high U.S. stock market capitalization to GDP ratios, low volatility in major indices, and a significant rally in precious metals. Recent data supports this prediction with Bitcoin currently down nearly 28% over the past month. Despite the bearish outlook, long-term holders and major institutions are still investing in Bitcoin, with data showing accumulator addresses buying around 372,000 BTC per month, and Binance converting its $1 billion insurance reserve into Bitcoin.
报告：稳定币规模达 3000 亿美元，正从交易工具转向日常支付与储蓄核心资产
BVNK 联合 Coinbase 与 Artemis 发布的《Stablecoin Utility Report 2026》显示，当前约 3000 亿美元规模的稳定币正加速从交易工具转向“日常货币”。调查覆盖 15 个国家共 4658 名受访者，结果显示，过去一年 54% 的加密用户持有稳定币，56% 计划未来一年继续增持。受访者平均将约三分之一 的储蓄配置于加密资产与稳定币。与此同时，自由职业者和商家约 35% 的年收入以稳定币结算，近四分之三表示其跨境工作能力因此提升。报告指出，稳定币在支付、薪酬与储蓄场景中的使用正在显著增长，反映其角色正由投机资产转向核心金融工具。（The Block）
CoinVoice 最新获悉，据金十报道，美联储戴利表示，人工智能投资可以提振需求，进而加剧通胀压力；但同时，生产力的提升具有放缓通胀的作用。[原文链接]
The Dollar Is at Its Most Shorted Level Since 2012. Why Isn't Bitcoin Rallying?
The U.S. dollar is at its most bearish level since 2012, yet Bitcoin is down 21% in 2026. Here's why the historic BTC-dollar relationship has flipped.
Top Investors Think Gold Can Hit $6,200
A Bank of America survey shows fund managers expect gold to peak at $6,200. Here's what the biggest banks are predicting and why.
Ripple CEO reveals CLARITY Act deadline
Explained: Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (2:41)
It has been months since the Clarity Act has been stuck in limbo, but Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse thinks the crypto legislation is closer to reality.
As per Garlinghouse, the Act will get signed soon when the banking and crypto industries resolve their differences. In fact, he has even hinted at a deadline for the same.
Related: Coinbase, Ripple urge Senate Committee to preserve 'genius' rewards
Why is Clarity Act getting delayed?
The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act is a legislation that aims to establish a regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States by clarifying the jurisdiction of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
The legislation aims to define which assets are commodities for them to be regulated by the CFTC and which assets are securities to be regulated by the SEC.
While the House of Representatives passed the Clarity Act in July last year, it is still stuck in the Senate chambers.
The reason is the stalemate between the banking and crypto industries over a provision regarding stablecoin rewards in the bill.
Related: Explained: What is a stablecoin?
A stablecoin is a type of cryptocurrency that tries to keep its value stable by being pegged to a fiat currency like the U.S. dollar.
Stablecoins like Tether's USDT, Circle's USDC, and Ripple's RLUSD are pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar and are treated as "digital dollars" by several payment infrastructure stakeholders.
A draft of the Clarity Act contains a provision that prohibits crypto platforms from offering rewards to users holding stablecoins so that these platforms can't support what would be de facto unregulated bank deposits.
The banking industry fears their users would withdraw their deposits and convert them into USD-pegged stablecoins as the reward crypto exchanges offer are higher than the interest paid by banks.
Geoff Kendrick, Standard Chartered’s global head of digital assets research has warned warned that if the stablecoin market grows to $2 trillion, banks in developed economies could see around $500 billion in deposits get drained by the end of 2028.
But the crypto industry argues the banking industry is acting in an anti-competitive manner and doesn't want to let go of stablecoin rewards. Coinbase (Nasdaq: COIN), the largest crypto exchange in the U.S., even withdrew support from the Senate's draft bill last month.
“We’d rather have no bill than a bad bill,” said Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong then.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently criticized what he described as “recalcitrant actors” resisting compromise. He earlier said that if deposits get drained from banks, these institutions would find it difficult to lend capital to community enterprises such as small businesses, agriculture, real estate, etc.
“We will continue to work to make sure there is no deposit volatility associated with this,” he assured the banking community.
As per Bessent, the legislation can get "across the line this year." President Donald Trump has also said the bill is close to passing.
More News:
Congress delay on crypto legislation triggers $1 billion outflow
Treasury Secretary Bessent warns Coinbase is blocking major legislation
Crypto market bill nears Senate markup after Trump's nod
Ripple CEO hints deadline for Clarity Act
The White House has tried to bring both the banking and crypto industries to the negotiation table, with Ripple being a major player involved in negotiations.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse
Getty Images
On Feb. 17, CEO Brad Garlinghouse urged the crypto industry to accept the bill and not let perfection come in the way of progress even if there are certain aspects to it that the industry doesn't appreciate.
"I think it's so clear that clarity is better than chaos," he said.
While the Clarity Act is not perfect, but then, nobody has ever seen a perfect piece of legislation, Garlinghouse argued.
He cited the example of Ripple's long legal battle with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over alleged securities violations which kept on going for years but gave clarity that "XRP is not a security. That's clarity."
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse remains optimistic about the Clarity Act, giving it an 👀 80% chance of being signed by the end of April. 🏛️
While XRP has its legal clarity, the rest of the industry is still waiting. Progress over perfection is the goal. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/7DqQezE3U2
— 𝗕𝗮𝗻𝗸XRP (@BankXRP) February 16, 2026
But the crypto industry doesn't have clarity, so Ripple is a strong advocate of pushing the Clarity Act forward even if it doesn't like certain aspects, he added.
There is an 80% chance of the Clarity Act getting signed by the end of April, he predicted.
Related: 172-year-old bank cuts XRP price target after December upgrade
It has been months since the Clarity Act has been stuck in limbo, but Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse thinks the crypto legislation is closer to reality.
As per Garlinghouse, the Act will get signed soon when the banking and crypto industries resolve their differences. In fact, he has even hinted at a deadline for the same.
Related: Coinbase, Ripple urge Senate Committee to preserve 'genius' rewards
Why is Clarity Act getting delayed?
The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act is a legislation that aims to establish a regulatory framework for digital assets in the United States by clarifying the jurisdiction of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).
The legislation aims to define which assets are commodities for them to be regulated by the CFTC and which assets are securities to be regulated by the SEC.
While the House of Representatives passed the Clarity Act in July last year, it is still stuck in the Senate chambers.
The reason is the stalemate between the banking and crypto industries over a provision regarding stablecoin rewards in the bill.
Related: Explained: What is a stablecoin?
A stablecoin is a type of cryptocurrency that tries to keep its value stable by being pegged to a fiat currency like the U.S. dollar.
Stablecoins like Tether's USDT, Circle's USDC, and Ripple's RLUSD are pegged 1:1 to the U.S. dollar and are treated as "digital dollars" by several payment infrastructure stakeholders.
A draft of the Clarity Act contains a provision that prohibits crypto platforms from offering rewards to users holding stablecoins so that these platforms can't support what would be de facto unregulated bank deposits.
The banking industry fears their users would withdraw their deposits and convert them into USD-pegged stablecoins as the reward crypto exchanges offer are higher than the interest paid by banks.
Geoff Kendrick, Standard Chartered’s global head of digital assets research has warned warned that if the stablecoin market grows to $2 trillion, banks in developed economies could see around $500 billion in deposits get drained by the end of 2028.
But the crypto industry argues the banking industry is acting in an anti-competitive manner and doesn't want to let go of stablecoin rewards. Coinbase (Nasdaq: COIN), the largest crypto exchange in the U.S., even withdrew support from the Senate's draft bill last month.
“We’d rather have no bill than a bad bill,” said Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong then.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently criticized what he described as “recalcitrant actors” resisting compromise. He earlier said that if deposits get drained from banks, these institutions would find it difficult to lend capital to community enterprises such as small businesses, agriculture, real estate, etc.
“We will continue to work to make sure there is no deposit volatility associated with this,” he assured the banking community.
As per Bessent, the legislation can get "across the line this year." President Donald Trump has also said the bill is close to passing.
More News:
Congress delay on crypto legislation triggers $1 billion outflow
Treasury Secretary Bessent warns Coinbase is blocking major legislation
Crypto market bill nears Senate markup after Trump's nod
Ripple CEO hints deadline for Clarity Act
The White House has tried to bring both the banking and crypto industries to the negotiation table, with Ripple being a major player involved in negotiations.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse
Getty Images
On Feb. 17, CEO Brad Garlinghouse urged the crypto industry to accept the bill and not let perfection come in the way of progress even if there are certain aspects to it that the industry doesn't appreciate.
"I think it's so clear that clarity is better than chaos," he said.
While the Clarity Act is not perfect, but then, nobody has ever seen a perfect piece of legislation, Garlinghouse argued.
He cited the example of Ripple's long legal battle with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) over alleged securities violations which kept on going for years but gave clarity that "XRP is not a security. That's clarity."
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse remains optimistic about the Clarity Act, giving it an 👀 80% chance of being signed by the end of April. 🏛️
While XRP has its legal clarity, the rest of the industry is still waiting. Progress over perfection is the goal. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/7DqQezE3U2
— 𝗕𝗮𝗻𝗸XRP (@BankXRP) February 16, 2026
But the crypto industry doesn't have clarity, so Ripple is a strong advocate of pushing the Clarity Act forward even if it doesn't like certain aspects, he added.
There is an 80% chance of the Clarity Act getting signed by the end of April, he predicted.
Related: 172-year-old bank cuts XRP price target after December upgrade
Ether Bulls Eye $2.5K as Staking ETF Debuts; RWA Market Cap Grows
Ether has not reclaimed the $2,500 level since late January, and traders are awaiting catalysts to spark a fresh run. The latest signals from institutions point to a shift in appetite: some of the industry’s biggest players are reallocating from BTC-centric exposure toward Ethereum-focused ETFs. Harvard’s endowment disclosed an $87 million stake in BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust during Q4 2025, while trimming holdings in the iShares Bitcoin Trust. Separately, the market for real-world assets tokenized on Ethereum surpassed $20 billion in aggregate value, reflecting a growing blend of traditional finance with blockchain rails. With the bear market bottom noted around $1,744 on February 6, analysts are watching for decisive momentum that could sustain a rebound.
Key takeaways
Institutional sentiment is shifting toward Ether as elite funds reallocate capital from Bitcoin to Ether ETFs.
BlackRock’s Staked Ethereum ETF features a 0.25% expense ratio and an 18% retention of staking rewards as service fees to intermediaries, balancing incentives in the staking flow.
Real-world asset tokenization on Ethereum has surpassed $20 billion in aggregate value, with broad participation from BlackRock, JPMorgan Chase, Fidelity and Franklin Templeton.
Harvard’s SEC filings show an $87 million addition to BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust during Q4 2025, alongside a reduction in its iShares Bitcoin Trust.
Dragonfly Capital’s $650 million funding round signals sustained appetite for tokenized stocks and private credit offerings on-chain, reinforcing the momentum toward RWAs and custody infrastructure.
Tickers mentioned: (omitted as per guidance to avoid introducing tickers not clearly provided in the source)
Sentiment: Neutral
Price impact: Positive. The combination of renewed institutional interest and expanding RWA activity on Ethereum could support a constructive price bias for ETH over the medium term.
Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The emerging mix of ETF activity and RWA infrastructure suggests potential for a delay-driven rebound, pending clearer price confirmations.
Market context: The ETH narrative sits at the intersection of regulated access to staking, continued ETF experimentation, and a broadening roster of on-chain real-world asset use cases. While spot flows have been modest in the near term, the participation of major asset managers in ETH-focused vehicles points to growing demand for regulated exposure and secure custody solutions within the crypto ecosystem. The sector remains sensitive to overall risk appetite, macro cues, and regulatory developments that could influence institutional allocations to crypto assets.
Why it matters
The trajectory for Ether as a mainstream financial instrument hinges on the alignment between traditional finance’s risk controls and the evolving capabilities of on-chain infrastructure. The ongoing expansion of RWAs on Ethereum demonstrates that large-scale capital is looking beyond pure speculative bets toward assets that can be tokenized, securitized, and traded within regulated frameworks. A 0.25% expense ratio on a Staked Ethereum ETF, paired with an 18% retention of staking rewards as fees, signals an industry attempt to balance competitive pricing with sustainable staking incentives. The underlying staking ecosystem—where custodians like Coinbase play a key role in facilitating services—highlights a path for institutions to access ETH staking without shouldering daily operational risk directly.
Moreover, the $20+ billion RWA market on Ethereum reflects a concerted effort to bring real assets onto the blockchain, blending gold, Treasuries and bonds with programmable settlement and liquidity access. The involvement of BlackRock, JPMorgan Chase, Fidelity and Franklin Templeton underscores how the line between traditional custody and digital asset infrastructure is blurring. In parallel, venture funding from players like Dragonfly Capital reinforces confidence in the long-run viability of tokenized stocks and private credit offerings, suggesting a maturation phase for the sector that could underpin sustained demand for ETH as a settlement and collateral layer.
Price catalysts remain tied to the broader risk environment. While a near-term move to $2,500 is discussed in market chatter, the path will likely depend on regulatory clarity, ETF inflows, and the pace at which RWAs scale from pilot projects to widely adopted products. The bear market bottom observed in early February may prove to be a reference point if new catalysts emerge, but investors will want to see consistent demand signals, improved liquidity, and clear governance for staking yield structures before committing meaningful capital.
What to watch next
Regulatory milestones for ETH-focused ETFs and any SEC updates on product approvals or adjustments.
Upcoming quarterly ETF flow data to gauge whether institutional inflows into Ether-based products accelerate.
New RWAs issuances and partnerships on Ethereum, including any large-scale tokenizations of traditional assets.
Price action around the $2,000–$2,500 zone and whether macro risk sentiment supports a durable breakout for ETH.
Sources & verification
Harvard’s 2025 Q4 Form 13F filings showing an $87 million stake in BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust and adjustments to its iShares Bitcoin Trust.
MarketBeat data detailing changes in notable iShares Ethereum Trust holdings.
DefiLlama data on the RWAs aggregate on Ethereum exceeding $20 billion in value.
Dragonfly Capital’s $650 million fundraise focused on tokenized RWAs and related on-chain infrastructure.
Institutional bets build as ETH ETFs mature and RWAs expand
Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) has begun to demonstrate a degree of resilience that could be the prelude to a broader regime shift in active institutional exposure. The most meaningful signal to date is the combination of major asset managers embracing Ethereum-based products and the rapid expansion of real-world asset tokenization that sits atop the Ethereum chain. The Harvard disclosures, which show an $87 million addition to BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust in Q4 2025, and a concurrent trimming of iShares Bitcoin Trust holdings, exemplify a nuanced preference for ETH-driven exposure over BTC-focused routes. This bifurcation in appetite suggests institutions are seeking regulated, scalable access to staking and on-chain liquidity, rather than relying solely on the volatility of the broader crypto market.
BlackRock’s Staked Ethereum ETF adds another dimension to the narrative. With a 0.25% expense ratio and an 18% retention of staking rewards as service fees, the vehicle aims to strike a pragmatic balance between cost efficiency and the revenue necessary to compensate the intermediaries that enable staking. The arrangement underscores a broader trend in the industry: in order to scale, staking products must align the incentives of custodians, exchanges, and fund managers with the long-term interests of investors seeking yield-bearing crypto exposure. Coinbase’s involvement as a staking service intermediary is cited as a notable practical factor in ensuring smooth on-ramp and on-chain execution for such portfolios.
Beyond the ETF mechanics, the size and scope of RWAs on Ethereum point to a maturation of the ecosystem. The aggregate RWAs on Ethereum now surpass $20 billion, a milestone that includes tokenized gold and a growing slice of US Treasuries, bonds, and money market funds. The involvement of major financial institutions—BlackRock, JPMorgan Chase, Fidelity, and Franklin Templeton—signals a coordinated push to bring more traditional assets under a tokenized, on-chain framework. When measured alongside other blockchain ecosystems, Ethereum’s RWAs stand out as a bridge between regulated finance and decentralized technologies, reinforcing the case for ETH as a robust platform for both settlement and collateral.
The venture funding environment is also shifting in this space. Dragonfly Capital’s recent $650 million round, aimed at real-world assets and tokenized financial instruments, illustrates persistent appetite from crypto-focused investors to back asset-backed models that operate in concert with established market infrastructure. In practice, this means more pilot programs, more credible custodial arrangements, and more sophisticated deals that link asset origination with tokenized issuance and on-chain trading. The result could be a multi-year trajectory in which RWAs contribute to sustained demand for ETH, even as the broader crypto market experiences sideways or choppy price action.
From a price perspective, the catalysts discussed—ETF inflows, deeper RWA adoption, and regulatory clarity—could provide the conditions for a rebound toward the $2,500 level noted in market discussions. The bear cycle that bottomed near $1,744 on February 6 has left a price floor that investors are watching closely, with the possibility of a renewed risk-on environment driving ETH higher as institutional confidence grows. While no single event guarantees a sustained rally, the confluence of regulated access, staking economics, and tangible on-chain assets tied to ETH strengthens the case for a constructive, though cautious, upside path in the medium term. The landscape suggests that the next phase of ETH’s price narrative will be driven less by frothy retail speculation and more by disciplined, asset-backed finance and regulated market access. Harvard’s stake in BlackRock’s ETH Trust and the evolving real-world asset framework remain central reference points as this story develops. For additional context on RWAs’ market dynamics, see Tokenized RWAs climb despite market rout, and for coverage of Dragonfly Capital’s funding round, visit Dragonfly’s $650M fund. The price-angle discussion around a potential move to $2,500 is also explored in ETH chart patterns and rally scenarios as noted in market analysis. Investors should monitor price action, ETF flow data, and regulatory developments to gauge how these structural shifts translate into tangible market movements.
This article was originally published as Ether Bulls Eye $2.5K as Staking ETF Debuts; RWA Market Cap Grows on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.
Key takeaways
Institutional sentiment is shifting toward Ether as elite funds reallocate capital from Bitcoin to Ether ETFs.
BlackRock’s Staked Ethereum ETF features a 0.25% expense ratio and an 18% retention of staking rewards as service fees to intermediaries, balancing incentives in the staking flow.
Real-world asset tokenization on Ethereum has surpassed $20 billion in aggregate value, with broad participation from BlackRock, JPMorgan Chase, Fidelity and Franklin Templeton.
Harvard’s SEC filings show an $87 million addition to BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust during Q4 2025, alongside a reduction in its iShares Bitcoin Trust.
Dragonfly Capital’s $650 million funding round signals sustained appetite for tokenized stocks and private credit offerings on-chain, reinforcing the momentum toward RWAs and custody infrastructure.
Tickers mentioned: (omitted as per guidance to avoid introducing tickers not clearly provided in the source)
Sentiment: Neutral
Price impact: Positive. The combination of renewed institutional interest and expanding RWA activity on Ethereum could support a constructive price bias for ETH over the medium term.
Trading idea (Not Financial Advice): Hold. The emerging mix of ETF activity and RWA infrastructure suggests potential for a delay-driven rebound, pending clearer price confirmations.
Market context: The ETH narrative sits at the intersection of regulated access to staking, continued ETF experimentation, and a broadening roster of on-chain real-world asset use cases. While spot flows have been modest in the near term, the participation of major asset managers in ETH-focused vehicles points to growing demand for regulated exposure and secure custody solutions within the crypto ecosystem. The sector remains sensitive to overall risk appetite, macro cues, and regulatory developments that could influence institutional allocations to crypto assets.
Why it matters
The trajectory for Ether as a mainstream financial instrument hinges on the alignment between traditional finance’s risk controls and the evolving capabilities of on-chain infrastructure. The ongoing expansion of RWAs on Ethereum demonstrates that large-scale capital is looking beyond pure speculative bets toward assets that can be tokenized, securitized, and traded within regulated frameworks. A 0.25% expense ratio on a Staked Ethereum ETF, paired with an 18% retention of staking rewards as fees, signals an industry attempt to balance competitive pricing with sustainable staking incentives. The underlying staking ecosystem—where custodians like Coinbase play a key role in facilitating services—highlights a path for institutions to access ETH staking without shouldering daily operational risk directly.
Moreover, the $20+ billion RWA market on Ethereum reflects a concerted effort to bring real assets onto the blockchain, blending gold, Treasuries and bonds with programmable settlement and liquidity access. The involvement of BlackRock, JPMorgan Chase, Fidelity and Franklin Templeton underscores how the line between traditional custody and digital asset infrastructure is blurring. In parallel, venture funding from players like Dragonfly Capital reinforces confidence in the long-run viability of tokenized stocks and private credit offerings, suggesting a maturation phase for the sector that could underpin sustained demand for ETH as a settlement and collateral layer.
Price catalysts remain tied to the broader risk environment. While a near-term move to $2,500 is discussed in market chatter, the path will likely depend on regulatory clarity, ETF inflows, and the pace at which RWAs scale from pilot projects to widely adopted products. The bear market bottom observed in early February may prove to be a reference point if new catalysts emerge, but investors will want to see consistent demand signals, improved liquidity, and clear governance for staking yield structures before committing meaningful capital.
What to watch next
Regulatory milestones for ETH-focused ETFs and any SEC updates on product approvals or adjustments.
Upcoming quarterly ETF flow data to gauge whether institutional inflows into Ether-based products accelerate.
New RWAs issuances and partnerships on Ethereum, including any large-scale tokenizations of traditional assets.
Price action around the $2,000–$2,500 zone and whether macro risk sentiment supports a durable breakout for ETH.
Sources & verification
Harvard’s 2025 Q4 Form 13F filings showing an $87 million stake in BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust and adjustments to its iShares Bitcoin Trust.
MarketBeat data detailing changes in notable iShares Ethereum Trust holdings.
DefiLlama data on the RWAs aggregate on Ethereum exceeding $20 billion in value.
Dragonfly Capital’s $650 million fundraise focused on tokenized RWAs and related on-chain infrastructure.
Institutional bets build as ETH ETFs mature and RWAs expand
Ether (CRYPTO: ETH) has begun to demonstrate a degree of resilience that could be the prelude to a broader regime shift in active institutional exposure. The most meaningful signal to date is the combination of major asset managers embracing Ethereum-based products and the rapid expansion of real-world asset tokenization that sits atop the Ethereum chain. The Harvard disclosures, which show an $87 million addition to BlackRock’s iShares Ethereum Trust in Q4 2025, and a concurrent trimming of iShares Bitcoin Trust holdings, exemplify a nuanced preference for ETH-driven exposure over BTC-focused routes. This bifurcation in appetite suggests institutions are seeking regulated, scalable access to staking and on-chain liquidity, rather than relying solely on the volatility of the broader crypto market.
BlackRock’s Staked Ethereum ETF adds another dimension to the narrative. With a 0.25% expense ratio and an 18% retention of staking rewards as service fees, the vehicle aims to strike a pragmatic balance between cost efficiency and the revenue necessary to compensate the intermediaries that enable staking. The arrangement underscores a broader trend in the industry: in order to scale, staking products must align the incentives of custodians, exchanges, and fund managers with the long-term interests of investors seeking yield-bearing crypto exposure. Coinbase’s involvement as a staking service intermediary is cited as a notable practical factor in ensuring smooth on-ramp and on-chain execution for such portfolios.
Beyond the ETF mechanics, the size and scope of RWAs on Ethereum point to a maturation of the ecosystem. The aggregate RWAs on Ethereum now surpass $20 billion, a milestone that includes tokenized gold and a growing slice of US Treasuries, bonds, and money market funds. The involvement of major financial institutions—BlackRock, JPMorgan Chase, Fidelity, and Franklin Templeton—signals a coordinated push to bring more traditional assets under a tokenized, on-chain framework. When measured alongside other blockchain ecosystems, Ethereum’s RWAs stand out as a bridge between regulated finance and decentralized technologies, reinforcing the case for ETH as a robust platform for both settlement and collateral.
The venture funding environment is also shifting in this space. Dragonfly Capital’s recent $650 million round, aimed at real-world assets and tokenized financial instruments, illustrates persistent appetite from crypto-focused investors to back asset-backed models that operate in concert with established market infrastructure. In practice, this means more pilot programs, more credible custodial arrangements, and more sophisticated deals that link asset origination with tokenized issuance and on-chain trading. The result could be a multi-year trajectory in which RWAs contribute to sustained demand for ETH, even as the broader crypto market experiences sideways or choppy price action.
From a price perspective, the catalysts discussed—ETF inflows, deeper RWA adoption, and regulatory clarity—could provide the conditions for a rebound toward the $2,500 level noted in market discussions. The bear cycle that bottomed near $1,744 on February 6 has left a price floor that investors are watching closely, with the possibility of a renewed risk-on environment driving ETH higher as institutional confidence grows. While no single event guarantees a sustained rally, the confluence of regulated access, staking economics, and tangible on-chain assets tied to ETH strengthens the case for a constructive, though cautious, upside path in the medium term. The landscape suggests that the next phase of ETH’s price narrative will be driven less by frothy retail speculation and more by disciplined, asset-backed finance and regulated market access. Harvard’s stake in BlackRock’s ETH Trust and the evolving real-world asset framework remain central reference points as this story develops. For additional context on RWAs’ market dynamics, see Tokenized RWAs climb despite market rout, and for coverage of Dragonfly Capital’s funding round, visit Dragonfly’s $650M fund. The price-angle discussion around a potential move to $2,500 is also explored in ETH chart patterns and rally scenarios as noted in market analysis. Investors should monitor price action, ETF flow data, and regulatory developments to gauge how these structural shifts translate into tangible market movements.
This article was originally published as Ether Bulls Eye $2.5K as Staking ETF Debuts; RWA Market Cap Grows on Crypto Breaking News – your trusted source for crypto news, Bitcoin news, and blockchain updates.
Stripe-owned Bridge gets OCC conditional approval for national bank charter
Stablecoin platform Bridge, owned by the payments processor Stripe, said it had received conditional approval to operate as a federally chartered national trust bank under the US Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).
In a Tuesday notice, Bridge said it had received conditional approval from the banking regulator, allowing the company to “operate stablecoin products and services under direct federal oversight” once fully approved. Bridge said the charter would allow it to offer custody of digital assets, issue stablecoins and manage stablecoin reserves.
“Our compliance framework already positions Bridge to be GENIUS ready,” said the company, referring to the stablecoin bill signed into law in July 2025. “Now achieving a national trust bank charter will provide our customers the regulatory backbone they need to build with stablecoins confidently and at scale.”
Source: Bridge
Bridge is one of several crypto-aligned companies seeking a national trust bank charter from the OCC following the passage of the GENIUS Act. In December, the agency conditionally approved applications from BitGo, Fidelity Digital Assets and Paxos to convert their respective state-level trust companies, and conditionally approved Circle and Ripple for national trust bank charters.
Related: Bankers push OCC to slow crypto trust charters until GENIUS rules clarified
According to OCC records, Bridge applied for a bank charter in October and was given approval on Feb. 12. Stripe acquired the platform in 2025 as part of a $1.1 billion deal for the company to support stablecoin payments.
In a Wednesday letter, the American Bankers Association (ABA) urged the OCC to slow its approval of crypto companies for national bank trust charters, saying rules under the GENIUS Act were still unclear. According to the banking group, companies could use national trust charters to essentially bypass oversight by US financial regulators.
“[…] ABA strongly encourages OCC to be patient, not measure its application decisioning progress against traditional timelines, and allow each charter applicant’s regulatory responsibilities to come fully into view before moving a charter application forward,” said the letter.
US policymakers still considering how to handle stablecoin rewards
As US lawmakers in the Senate advance bills to establish a comprehensive digital asset market structure framework, White House officials continue to meet with representatives from the crypto and banking industries to address stablecoin yield. Addressing stablecoins within the market structure bill, as well as issues related to tokenized equities and conflicts of interest, could be a sticking point for many lawmakers ahead of a potential vote in the Senate.
Magazine: IronClaw rivals OpenClaw, Olas launches bots for Polymarket — AI Eye
In a Tuesday notice, Bridge said it had received conditional approval from the banking regulator, allowing the company to “operate stablecoin products and services under direct federal oversight” once fully approved. Bridge said the charter would allow it to offer custody of digital assets, issue stablecoins and manage stablecoin reserves.
“Our compliance framework already positions Bridge to be GENIUS ready,” said the company, referring to the stablecoin bill signed into law in July 2025. “Now achieving a national trust bank charter will provide our customers the regulatory backbone they need to build with stablecoins confidently and at scale.”
Source: Bridge
Bridge is one of several crypto-aligned companies seeking a national trust bank charter from the OCC following the passage of the GENIUS Act. In December, the agency conditionally approved applications from BitGo, Fidelity Digital Assets and Paxos to convert their respective state-level trust companies, and conditionally approved Circle and Ripple for national trust bank charters.
Related: Bankers push OCC to slow crypto trust charters until GENIUS rules clarified
According to OCC records, Bridge applied for a bank charter in October and was given approval on Feb. 12. Stripe acquired the platform in 2025 as part of a $1.1 billion deal for the company to support stablecoin payments.
In a Wednesday letter, the American Bankers Association (ABA) urged the OCC to slow its approval of crypto companies for national bank trust charters, saying rules under the GENIUS Act were still unclear. According to the banking group, companies could use national trust charters to essentially bypass oversight by US financial regulators.
“[…] ABA strongly encourages OCC to be patient, not measure its application decisioning progress against traditional timelines, and allow each charter applicant’s regulatory responsibilities to come fully into view before moving a charter application forward,” said the letter.
US policymakers still considering how to handle stablecoin rewards
As US lawmakers in the Senate advance bills to establish a comprehensive digital asset market structure framework, White House officials continue to meet with representatives from the crypto and banking industries to address stablecoin yield. Addressing stablecoins within the market structure bill, as well as issues related to tokenized equities and conflicts of interest, could be a sticking point for many lawmakers ahead of a potential vote in the Senate.
Magazine: IronClaw rivals OpenClaw, Olas launches bots for Polymarket — AI Eye
Palantir (PLTR) Stock: Michael Burry’s $46 Warning Shocks AI Investors
TLDR
Michael Burry estimates Palantir’s fair value at $46 per share with a range between $21 and $146 based on fundamental analysis.
Burry holds put options on PLTR but is not shorting the stock directly, maintaining a bearish stance on current valuation levels.
Technical analysts project PLTR could fall below $100 with a potential target around $70 before finding sustainable support.
Burry’s critique focuses on valuation disconnect, arguing the stock trades on leadership perception rather than business fundamentals.
The analysis warns investors that Palantir’s AI-driven rally may not hold up under scrutiny of traditional financial metrics.
Michael Burry just delivered a harsh verdict on Palantir Technologies. The investor who famously predicted the 2008 housing collapse published a detailed analysis questioning the AI stock’s sky-high valuation.
His conclusion? Palantir might be worth just $46 per share. That’s a jarring figure for investors who’ve watched PLTR soar through 2024 and 2025 on artificial intelligence hype.
Burry didn’t stop at one number. He outlined a valuation range from $21 to $146, emphasizing these aren’t standard Wall Street price targets. They represent different scenarios based on the company’s actual business performance versus market expectations.
The critique comes at a crucial moment. Palantir has emerged as one of the hottest names in AI investing. Its data analytics platform and government contracts have attracted enormous investor interest. But Burry argues that enthusiasm has pushed the price far beyond what fundamentals support.
Burry Holds Put Options While Warning on Valuation
Burry revealed he’s positioned bearishly through put options rather than direct short selling. This gives him downside exposure with defined risk limits. It’s a calculated bet that the stock will decline from current levels.
His analysis goes beyond spreadsheets. Burry examined Palantir’s corporate culture and leadership dynamics. He contends the stock trades on CEO Alex Karp’s aura rather than financial reality. When market pressure arrives, he believes that type of valuation will collapse.
“I believe Palantir’s recent winning streak will not endure,” Burry wrote in his substack piece “Palantir’s New Clothes: Foundry, AIP & the Failure of Reason.” The article is forcing a reassessment across Wall Street.
Burry emphasized his critique isn’t personal. He’s analyzing the business, not attacking management. That matters because Palantir defenders often dismiss criticism as misunderstanding the company’s unique approach.
Technical Analysis Points to $70 Target
The bearish case gets support from technical analysis. Analyst Alex Dudov identifies PLTR in a corrective pattern with substantial downside risk ahead. The stock is testing the $100 level as a critical support zone.
Dudov’s research points to a potential target around $70 per share. That’s where institutional buyers might step in with conviction. Until then, the stock remains exposed to continued selling pressure.
The technical structure shows Palantir completing an impulsive rally before entering a multi-stage correction. This is typical behavior after strong advances. The market needs to discover where real demand exists at lower prices.
Traders should monitor the $100 threshold closely. A break below could accelerate movement toward the $70 zone. The stock is in price discovery mode, searching for a level that attracts sustained buying interest.
The valuation debate centers on one question: Can Palantir’s business fundamentals justify its current price? Burry’s $46 estimate considers revenue growth, margins, competition, and market opportunity. His wide range reflects uncertainty about future outcomes.
Even in optimistic scenarios, Burry sees limited support for current valuations. This creates tension for investors who bought the AI growth story. Do they hold through volatility or take profits and wait for better entry points?
Institutional investors appear willing to wait for lower prices before building positions. That lack of buying support at current levels maintains downward pressure on the stock.
Burry holds put options on PLTR while technical analysis suggests a potential decline to $70 per share.
The post Palantir (PLTR) Stock: Michael Burry’s $46 Warning Shocks AI Investors appeared first on Blockonomi.
Michael Burry estimates Palantir’s fair value at $46 per share with a range between $21 and $146 based on fundamental analysis.
Burry holds put options on PLTR but is not shorting the stock directly, maintaining a bearish stance on current valuation levels.
Technical analysts project PLTR could fall below $100 with a potential target around $70 before finding sustainable support.
Burry’s critique focuses on valuation disconnect, arguing the stock trades on leadership perception rather than business fundamentals.
The analysis warns investors that Palantir’s AI-driven rally may not hold up under scrutiny of traditional financial metrics.
Michael Burry just delivered a harsh verdict on Palantir Technologies. The investor who famously predicted the 2008 housing collapse published a detailed analysis questioning the AI stock’s sky-high valuation.
His conclusion? Palantir might be worth just $46 per share. That’s a jarring figure for investors who’ve watched PLTR soar through 2024 and 2025 on artificial intelligence hype.
Burry didn’t stop at one number. He outlined a valuation range from $21 to $146, emphasizing these aren’t standard Wall Street price targets. They represent different scenarios based on the company’s actual business performance versus market expectations.
The critique comes at a crucial moment. Palantir has emerged as one of the hottest names in AI investing. Its data analytics platform and government contracts have attracted enormous investor interest. But Burry argues that enthusiasm has pushed the price far beyond what fundamentals support.
Burry Holds Put Options While Warning on Valuation
Burry revealed he’s positioned bearishly through put options rather than direct short selling. This gives him downside exposure with defined risk limits. It’s a calculated bet that the stock will decline from current levels.
His analysis goes beyond spreadsheets. Burry examined Palantir’s corporate culture and leadership dynamics. He contends the stock trades on CEO Alex Karp’s aura rather than financial reality. When market pressure arrives, he believes that type of valuation will collapse.
“I believe Palantir’s recent winning streak will not endure,” Burry wrote in his substack piece “Palantir’s New Clothes: Foundry, AIP & the Failure of Reason.” The article is forcing a reassessment across Wall Street.
Burry emphasized his critique isn’t personal. He’s analyzing the business, not attacking management. That matters because Palantir defenders often dismiss criticism as misunderstanding the company’s unique approach.
Technical Analysis Points to $70 Target
The bearish case gets support from technical analysis. Analyst Alex Dudov identifies PLTR in a corrective pattern with substantial downside risk ahead. The stock is testing the $100 level as a critical support zone.
Dudov’s research points to a potential target around $70 per share. That’s where institutional buyers might step in with conviction. Until then, the stock remains exposed to continued selling pressure.
The technical structure shows Palantir completing an impulsive rally before entering a multi-stage correction. This is typical behavior after strong advances. The market needs to discover where real demand exists at lower prices.
Traders should monitor the $100 threshold closely. A break below could accelerate movement toward the $70 zone. The stock is in price discovery mode, searching for a level that attracts sustained buying interest.
The valuation debate centers on one question: Can Palantir’s business fundamentals justify its current price? Burry’s $46 estimate considers revenue growth, margins, competition, and market opportunity. His wide range reflects uncertainty about future outcomes.
Even in optimistic scenarios, Burry sees limited support for current valuations. This creates tension for investors who bought the AI growth story. Do they hold through volatility or take profits and wait for better entry points?
Institutional investors appear willing to wait for lower prices before building positions. That lack of buying support at current levels maintains downward pressure on the stock.
Burry holds put options on PLTR while technical analysis suggests a potential decline to $70 per share.
The post Palantir (PLTR) Stock: Michael Burry’s $46 Warning Shocks AI Investors appeared first on Blockonomi.
Dragonfly Capital Raises $650M Fourth Fund to Lead Crypto’s Shift Toward Financial Infrastructure
TLDR:
Dragonfly Capital closed its fourth fund at $650M, competing directly with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
The firm led Ethena’s $6M seed round in 2023; the stablecoin now holds a $6.3B market capitalization.
Dragonfly’s strategy targets stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized assets over native crypto protocols.
Partner Haseeb Qureshi says speaking openly in a hype-driven space has been the firm’s greatest superpower.
Dragonfly Capital has officially closed its fourth fund at $650 million. The crypto-focused venture firm made the announcement even as the broader blockchain investment sector faces serious headwinds.
The firm continues to focus on financial infrastructure, including stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized real-world assets.
This latest raise cements Dragonfly’s place among the top crypto venture firms globally competing with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
Dragonfly Bets on Finance as Crypto’s Next Frontier
The firm’s strategy has shifted noticeably toward Wall Street-style financial products built on blockchain rails. General partner Rob Hadick, who joined in April 2022 from hedge fund GoldenTree, has been central to that repositioning.
He arrived just as the Terra Luna collapse rocked the market and stayed through the FTX implosion shortly after. Recalling that turbulent period, Hadick said, “I was scared about what was happening to the industry, but I was excited about the opportunity we had, because we still had $500 million to deploy.”
One early product of that vision was Ethena, a synthetic dollar project that most investors rejected following the Terra Luna fallout. Dragonfly led Ethena’s $6 million seed round during the bear market of 2023.
Ethena founder Guy Young recalled that most investors told him, “It’s actually offensive that you’re even saying this after what just happened.”
Dragonfly, however, took a different view. Young credited the firm’s ability to “look at it from first principles” as the reason they moved forward.
Today, Ethena’s flagship stablecoin carries a market cap of roughly $6.3 billion. Franklin Templeton and Fidelity’s venture arm joined a subsequent $100 million round, further validating Dragonfly’s early conviction.
The bet stands as one of the clearest examples of the firm’s contrarian approach during a difficult market period.
A broader shift is now visible across the entire crypto venture space. Partner Tom Schmidt noted that fewer funds are chasing native protocol tokens and more are backing assets tied to real-world instruments.
“This is the biggest meta shift I can feel in my entire time in the industry,” Schmidt said. Hadick added, “A lot of crypto funds are now saying they’re fintech funds, which is what I think we do better than anybody.”
Leadership and Long-Term Vision Drive the Firm Forward
Dragonfly’s current leadership includes four partners with distinct, complementary roles. Haseeb Qureshi serves as the firm’s most visible voice, known for his Chopping Block podcast and direct commentary on Crypto Twitter.
He once nearly secured Polymarket’s seed round in 2020 but passed on matching a competing term sheet. Reflecting on it, Qureshi said plainly, “It was obviously a massive miss on our part, but we had the right idea.” The firm eventually invested at the Series B stage.
The firm has also navigated serious internal and external turbulence. A Department of Justice inquiry surfaced in 2025, tied to Dragonfly’s investment in privacy protocol Tornado Cash.
Prosecutors briefly suggested Schmidt could face criminal charges before the DOJ reversed course. Qureshi maintained that “the investment was never ideological,” and the episode ultimately became a point of credibility within the broader crypto community.
Dragonfly restructured significantly after co-founder Alex Pack departed around 2020. Pack himself acknowledged that he and Feng were “very different culturally,” adding that he spent “a few months helping to hire and train my replacements” before the two parted ways.
The firm also relocated its Asia operations from Beijing to Singapore amid China’s sweeping crypto crackdown, though Schmidt confirmed it still maintains a meaningful regional presence.
With $650 million now secured, Dragonfly enters the next cycle as one of the sector’s most established players. “It’s bizarre to see us now become one of the incumbents,” Qureshi said.
He added that the firm’s willingness to speak directly has been a key differentiator: “In a space that is just completely flooded with bullshit and with fakers and self-promoters, I think that has actually been a superpower.”
The firm is now positioned to shape how blockchain technology continues merging with mainstream financial systems.
The post Dragonfly Capital Raises $650M Fourth Fund to Lead Crypto’s Shift Toward Financial Infrastructure appeared first on Blockonomi.
Dragonfly Capital closed its fourth fund at $650M, competing directly with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
The firm led Ethena’s $6M seed round in 2023; the stablecoin now holds a $6.3B market capitalization.
Dragonfly’s strategy targets stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized assets over native crypto protocols.
Partner Haseeb Qureshi says speaking openly in a hype-driven space has been the firm’s greatest superpower.
Dragonfly Capital has officially closed its fourth fund at $650 million. The crypto-focused venture firm made the announcement even as the broader blockchain investment sector faces serious headwinds.
The firm continues to focus on financial infrastructure, including stablecoins, onchain finance, and tokenized real-world assets.
This latest raise cements Dragonfly’s place among the top crypto venture firms globally competing with Andreessen Horowitz and Paradigm.
Dragonfly Bets on Finance as Crypto’s Next Frontier
The firm’s strategy has shifted noticeably toward Wall Street-style financial products built on blockchain rails. General partner Rob Hadick, who joined in April 2022 from hedge fund GoldenTree, has been central to that repositioning.
He arrived just as the Terra Luna collapse rocked the market and stayed through the FTX implosion shortly after. Recalling that turbulent period, Hadick said, “I was scared about what was happening to the industry, but I was excited about the opportunity we had, because we still had $500 million to deploy.”
One early product of that vision was Ethena, a synthetic dollar project that most investors rejected following the Terra Luna fallout. Dragonfly led Ethena’s $6 million seed round during the bear market of 2023.
Ethena founder Guy Young recalled that most investors told him, “It’s actually offensive that you’re even saying this after what just happened.”
Dragonfly, however, took a different view. Young credited the firm’s ability to “look at it from first principles” as the reason they moved forward.
Today, Ethena’s flagship stablecoin carries a market cap of roughly $6.3 billion. Franklin Templeton and Fidelity’s venture arm joined a subsequent $100 million round, further validating Dragonfly’s early conviction.
The bet stands as one of the clearest examples of the firm’s contrarian approach during a difficult market period.
A broader shift is now visible across the entire crypto venture space. Partner Tom Schmidt noted that fewer funds are chasing native protocol tokens and more are backing assets tied to real-world instruments.
“This is the biggest meta shift I can feel in my entire time in the industry,” Schmidt said. Hadick added, “A lot of crypto funds are now saying they’re fintech funds, which is what I think we do better than anybody.”
Leadership and Long-Term Vision Drive the Firm Forward
Dragonfly’s current leadership includes four partners with distinct, complementary roles. Haseeb Qureshi serves as the firm’s most visible voice, known for his Chopping Block podcast and direct commentary on Crypto Twitter.
He once nearly secured Polymarket’s seed round in 2020 but passed on matching a competing term sheet. Reflecting on it, Qureshi said plainly, “It was obviously a massive miss on our part, but we had the right idea.” The firm eventually invested at the Series B stage.
The firm has also navigated serious internal and external turbulence. A Department of Justice inquiry surfaced in 2025, tied to Dragonfly’s investment in privacy protocol Tornado Cash.
Prosecutors briefly suggested Schmidt could face criminal charges before the DOJ reversed course. Qureshi maintained that “the investment was never ideological,” and the episode ultimately became a point of credibility within the broader crypto community.
Dragonfly restructured significantly after co-founder Alex Pack departed around 2020. Pack himself acknowledged that he and Feng were “very different culturally,” adding that he spent “a few months helping to hire and train my replacements” before the two parted ways.
The firm also relocated its Asia operations from Beijing to Singapore amid China’s sweeping crypto crackdown, though Schmidt confirmed it still maintains a meaningful regional presence.
With $650 million now secured, Dragonfly enters the next cycle as one of the sector’s most established players. “It’s bizarre to see us now become one of the incumbents,” Qureshi said.
He added that the firm’s willingness to speak directly has been a key differentiator: “In a space that is just completely flooded with bullshit and with fakers and self-promoters, I think that has actually been a superpower.”
The firm is now positioned to shape how blockchain technology continues merging with mainstream financial systems.
The post Dragonfly Capital Raises $650M Fourth Fund to Lead Crypto’s Shift Toward Financial Infrastructure appeared first on Blockonomi.
数据：2025 年 85% 新发代币价值低于发行价，风投影响力减弱
据 The DeFi Edge，2025 年 85% 代币发行价格低于发行价，风投支持项目收益率下降，部分项目亏损严重。2022 年 Q2，加密风投单季度募资近 170 亿美元，新设基金超过 80 支。自 2022 年以来，风投投资回报持续下滑，新基金数量降至五年最低，上一季度募资仅为 2022 年 Q2 的 12%。尽管上一季度风投投资额达 85 亿美元，环比增长 84%，但主要为 2022 年资金投入，非新增资本。报告指出，传统“风投入场—代币发行—抛售零售”模式正在衰退。随着风投影响力减弱，未来项目成功关键在于真实用户和实际收入，预计将带来更公平发行与减少内部抛售情况。
Nasdaq-listed company becomes first to offer gold dividends
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino says CBDCs could turn money into a surveillance tool (3:11)
Tether, the crypto company well-known for its stablecoins, announced on Feb. 17 that Elemental Royalty Corporation (Nasdaq: ELE), a publicly traded gold royalty company, will offer select shareholders the option to receive their dividend in the form of Tether Gold (XAUT) tokens.
This is the first-ever instance of a public gold company offering shareholders the option to receive dividends in tokenized gold, Tether said.
Related: Top gold holder doubles down on precious metal
What is XAUT?
Tether's XAUT is a digital asset backed by physical gold, which combines the long-term stability of gold with the efficiency, accessibility, and transferability of blockchain technology.
It is available as an ERC-20 token on the Ethereum blockchain and as a TRC20 token on the TRON blockchain.
The allocated gold is identifiable with a unique serial number, purity, and weight and is redeemable in the form of physical gold.
One XAUT is backed by one fine troy ounce of physical gold. It meets the Good Delivery standard of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA).
XAUT accounted for approximately 60% of the total gold-backed stablecoin supply, Tether earlier said.
More News:
Gold giant becomes major buyer of U.S. debt
S&P downgrades Tether to lowest rating
Former White House advisor reveals 2026 plan to buy massive U.S. debt
Elemental Royalty shareholders can receive dividends in Tether's XAUT
Elemental Royalty Corporation said it anticipates that qualifying registered shareholders will be able to elect to receive their dividend in the form of Tether's XAUT tokens, of par value to the dividend price.
With dividends in XAUT, Elemental Royalty shareholders gain direct gold exposure instead of cash equivalents, aligning dividend distributions more closely with the underlying asset.
Elemental Royalty CEO David M. Cole said,
“The decision to offer investors a dividend in kind, in the form of Tether Gold, further differentiates Elemental as a forward-thinking, growth-oriented investment.”
Elemental Royalty executive chairman Juan Sartori said,
“We believe the initiation of this dividend policy is a world first for a royalty company.”
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino said,
“Gold has always been one of the most trusted stores of value in the world, yet integrating it directly into modern financial distribution models has been difficult... Using XAUT for shareholder dividends changes that dynamic completely.”
As per CoinGecko, XAUT was trading at $4,870.27 at press time. With a market cap of $2.5 billion, it is the largest tokenized gold coin.
Related: 64-year-old Wall Street firm flags unusual gold accumulation
Tether, the crypto company well-known for its stablecoins, announced on Feb. 17 that Elemental Royalty Corporation (Nasdaq: ELE), a publicly traded gold royalty company, will offer select shareholders the option to receive their dividend in the form of Tether Gold (XAUT) tokens.
This is the first-ever instance of a public gold company offering shareholders the option to receive dividends in tokenized gold, Tether said.
Related: Top gold holder doubles down on precious metal
What is XAUT?
Tether's XAUT is a digital asset backed by physical gold, which combines the long-term stability of gold with the efficiency, accessibility, and transferability of blockchain technology.
It is available as an ERC-20 token on the Ethereum blockchain and as a TRC20 token on the TRON blockchain.
The allocated gold is identifiable with a unique serial number, purity, and weight and is redeemable in the form of physical gold.
One XAUT is backed by one fine troy ounce of physical gold. It meets the Good Delivery standard of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA).
XAUT accounted for approximately 60% of the total gold-backed stablecoin supply, Tether earlier said.
More News:
Gold giant becomes major buyer of U.S. debt
S&P downgrades Tether to lowest rating
Former White House advisor reveals 2026 plan to buy massive U.S. debt
Elemental Royalty shareholders can receive dividends in Tether's XAUT
Elemental Royalty Corporation said it anticipates that qualifying registered shareholders will be able to elect to receive their dividend in the form of Tether's XAUT tokens, of par value to the dividend price.
With dividends in XAUT, Elemental Royalty shareholders gain direct gold exposure instead of cash equivalents, aligning dividend distributions more closely with the underlying asset.
Elemental Royalty CEO David M. Cole said,
“The decision to offer investors a dividend in kind, in the form of Tether Gold, further differentiates Elemental as a forward-thinking, growth-oriented investment.”
Elemental Royalty executive chairman Juan Sartori said,
“We believe the initiation of this dividend policy is a world first for a royalty company.”
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino said,
“Gold has always been one of the most trusted stores of value in the world, yet integrating it directly into modern financial distribution models has been difficult... Using XAUT for shareholder dividends changes that dynamic completely.”
As per CoinGecko, XAUT was trading at $4,870.27 at press time. With a market cap of $2.5 billion, it is the largest tokenized gold coin.
Related: 64-year-old Wall Street firm flags unusual gold accumulation
Quantoz Payments Secures VISA Principal Status, Boosting Stablecoin Integration
TL;DR:
Quantoz becomes a VISA principal member to issue cards directly to third parties.
The alliance will allow fintechs to integrate payments with regulated stablecoins such as EURQ and USDQ.
The service will focus on the European market, complying with MiCAR security standards.
This Tuesday, it was announced that Quantoz Payments secured VISA principal member status, representing a firm step toward mass adoption in the digital asset sector. This partnership marks a significant achievement for the Dutch firm, which can now act as a BIN sponsor.
We are pleased to announce that we have partnered with @Visa to become a direct Visa principal member.
Through this partnership we will:
Facilitate the issuance of virtual Visa debit cards
Act as a BIN sponsor for fintechs and platforms
Enable customers to spend… pic.twitter.com/Rfp9auTVv2
— Quantoz (@Quantoz) February 17, 2026
Thanks to this new status, the platform can issue physical and virtual debit cards on behalf of other fintech companies. Consequently, any platform can now add the option for users to spend stablecoin and cryptocurrency balances as part of their services.
The infrastructure developed by Quantoz seeks to eliminate the technical and regulatory barriers currently faced by financial startups. Through integration into VISA’s global network, regulated digital money finally becomes usable for everyday purchases.
Expansion of Stablecoin Payments Under MiCAR Regulation
This collaboration will primarily focus on the European Union market, a niche with high demand for tokenized dollars and euros. The company currently holds an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license granted by the Dutch Central Bank.
Furthermore, Quantoz already manages assets such as EURQ and USDQ, which strictly comply with the MiCAR regulatory framework. This ensures that all funds are backed by liquid assets and fiat money, guaranteeing maximum protection for the end consumer.
Arnoud Star Busmann, CEO of the company, explained that this collaboration allows connecting non-tangible money with one of the most widely accepted payment networks in the world. For its part, VISA reinforces its position as an innovation facilitator in the digital asset ecosystem.
In summary, this advancement positions Quantoz as one of the strongest bridges between traditional finance and the crypto environment. With white-label solutions, the future of hybrid payments seems increasingly close to global normalization.
Quantoz becomes a VISA principal member to issue cards directly to third parties.
The alliance will allow fintechs to integrate payments with regulated stablecoins such as EURQ and USDQ.
The service will focus on the European market, complying with MiCAR security standards.
This Tuesday, it was announced that Quantoz Payments secured VISA principal member status, representing a firm step toward mass adoption in the digital asset sector. This partnership marks a significant achievement for the Dutch firm, which can now act as a BIN sponsor.
We are pleased to announce that we have partnered with @Visa to become a direct Visa principal member.
Through this partnership we will:
Facilitate the issuance of virtual Visa debit cards
Act as a BIN sponsor for fintechs and platforms
Enable customers to spend… pic.twitter.com/Rfp9auTVv2
— Quantoz (@Quantoz) February 17, 2026
Thanks to this new status, the platform can issue physical and virtual debit cards on behalf of other fintech companies. Consequently, any platform can now add the option for users to spend stablecoin and cryptocurrency balances as part of their services.
The infrastructure developed by Quantoz seeks to eliminate the technical and regulatory barriers currently faced by financial startups. Through integration into VISA’s global network, regulated digital money finally becomes usable for everyday purchases.
Expansion of Stablecoin Payments Under MiCAR Regulation
This collaboration will primarily focus on the European Union market, a niche with high demand for tokenized dollars and euros. The company currently holds an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license granted by the Dutch Central Bank.
Furthermore, Quantoz already manages assets such as EURQ and USDQ, which strictly comply with the MiCAR regulatory framework. This ensures that all funds are backed by liquid assets and fiat money, guaranteeing maximum protection for the end consumer.
Arnoud Star Busmann, CEO of the company, explained that this collaboration allows connecting non-tangible money with one of the most widely accepted payment networks in the world. For its part, VISA reinforces its position as an innovation facilitator in the digital asset ecosystem.
In summary, this advancement positions Quantoz as one of the strongest bridges between traditional finance and the crypto environment. With white-label solutions, the future of hybrid payments seems increasingly close to global normalization.
No, BTC Is Not Forming Massive Bullish Pattern, Brandt Says
Veteran commodity trader and chartist Peter Brandt has poured cold water on a viral bullish theory circulating on social media, warning traders that the "massive" reversal pattern they are hoping for does not actually exist.
Bitcoin may go upBut this is NOT an inverse H&SThe level of incompetence about classical charting principles on X and YouTube is unbelievable https://t.co/VBT1QTWOeZ
— Peter Brandt (@PeterLBrandt) February 17, 2026
Brandt stopped short of predicting a price crash, but he took aim at the technical analysis skills of crypto influencers, specifically debunking the claim that Bitcoin is forming a multi-year "inverse head and shoulders" pattern.
The viral "6-year" theory
The rebuke was directed at a post by crypto analyst Coinvo Trading, which claimed that Bitcoin was on the verge of completing a massive bullish structure that has been building for half a decade.
The post urged traders to ignore "bearish noise," predicting that Bitcoin could "bottom at any moment" and launch into a cycle-defining pump.
The inverse head and shoulders is a classic technical setup that typically signals the end of a downtrend and the start of a new bullish phase.
Brandt, a classical chartist with decades of experience, was quick to dismiss the analysis.
"Bitcoin may go up," Brandt conceded. "But this is NOT an inverse H&S."
Brandt went on to express frustration with the loose interpretations of technical analysis often seen on social media platforms.
"The level of incompetence about classical charting principles on X and YouTube is unbelievable," he stated.
A "6-year" pattern often violates the time constraints typically associated with a head and shoulders formation, which is usually a medium-term reversal structure rather than a decade-long cycle map.
Bitcoin may go upBut this is NOT an inverse H&SThe level of incompetence about classical charting principles on X and YouTube is unbelievable https://t.co/VBT1QTWOeZ
— Peter Brandt (@PeterLBrandt) February 17, 2026
Brandt stopped short of predicting a price crash, but he took aim at the technical analysis skills of crypto influencers, specifically debunking the claim that Bitcoin is forming a multi-year "inverse head and shoulders" pattern.
The viral "6-year" theory
The rebuke was directed at a post by crypto analyst Coinvo Trading, which claimed that Bitcoin was on the verge of completing a massive bullish structure that has been building for half a decade.
The post urged traders to ignore "bearish noise," predicting that Bitcoin could "bottom at any moment" and launch into a cycle-defining pump.
The inverse head and shoulders is a classic technical setup that typically signals the end of a downtrend and the start of a new bullish phase.
Brandt, a classical chartist with decades of experience, was quick to dismiss the analysis.
"Bitcoin may go up," Brandt conceded. "But this is NOT an inverse H&S."
Brandt went on to express frustration with the loose interpretations of technical analysis often seen on social media platforms.
"The level of incompetence about classical charting principles on X and YouTube is unbelievable," he stated.
A "6-year" pattern often violates the time constraints typically associated with a head and shoulders formation, which is usually a medium-term reversal structure rather than a decade-long cycle map.
Shiba Inu Launches Mechanism to Restore Affected Shibarium Users
In a recent tweet, Shiba Inu's official X account reveals that SOU is now live. SOU, an abbreviation for "Shib owes you," is an on-chain NFT intended as a good-faith effort to support impacted Shibarium users with payouts, donations and occasional rewards.
In a 2025 year-end message, Shiba Inu developer Kaal Dhairya introduced this system, revealing his commitment to ensuring that every Shiba Inu-related activity is oriented toward making Shibarium users whole.
In the "Shib Owes You" system, every affected Shibarium user has an SOU NFT — an on-chain, verifiable record of exactly what the Shiba Inu ecosystem owes them. This is cryptographic proof that users own a claim, recorded permanently on the Ethereum blockchain, where no one can manipulate it or make it disappear.
SOU is live Introducing SOU (Shib Owes You) an onchain NFT built as a good-faith effort to support impacted users with payouts, donations, and occasional rewards.Transparent. Tradable. On-chain.You can transfer it, split it, merge it, or trade it on marketplaces.Claim your… pic.twitter.com/ONyO8OitJQ
— Shib (@Shibtoken) February 16, 2026
Each SOU tracks a principal amount, which is the value being owed to a specific user. When payouts happen, the principal goes down, as well as when donations come in from the community.
The entire system, including minting, payouts, donations and transfers, was audited by Hexens, which revealed the audit has now been completed.
In a recent tweet, Hexens revealed security review of the new SOU (Shib Owes You) contracts powering a secondary NFT market for recovery and repayments following the Shibarium hack.
The assessment focused on asset recovery logic, repayment flows, NFT mechanics, access controls and overall fund safety.
The Shiba Inu community reacted to the recent update about the SOU, including Shiba Inu lead ambassador Shytoshi Kusama, who praised the team's work.
"Great work guys getting this out, kaal dhairya and the team," Kusama stated.
Shiba Inu price
The crypto market is mostly in red in early Tuesday session. At the time of writing, SHIB was down 2.36% in the last 24 hours to $0.000006431 and up 7% weekly.
card
The markets are reacting ahead of the FOMC minutes on Wednesday, which will show insights into the last interest rate decision and future monetary policy.
Investors are also expecting more delayed economic data this week, including December’s personal consumption expenditures index on Friday, the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge.
Shiba Inu retreated after a sharp surge to $0.00000724 on Feb. 14, with the next support now at $0.00000575.
In a 2025 year-end message, Shiba Inu developer Kaal Dhairya introduced this system, revealing his commitment to ensuring that every Shiba Inu-related activity is oriented toward making Shibarium users whole.
In the "Shib Owes You" system, every affected Shibarium user has an SOU NFT — an on-chain, verifiable record of exactly what the Shiba Inu ecosystem owes them. This is cryptographic proof that users own a claim, recorded permanently on the Ethereum blockchain, where no one can manipulate it or make it disappear.
SOU is live Introducing SOU (Shib Owes You) an onchain NFT built as a good-faith effort to support impacted users with payouts, donations, and occasional rewards.Transparent. Tradable. On-chain.You can transfer it, split it, merge it, or trade it on marketplaces.Claim your… pic.twitter.com/ONyO8OitJQ
— Shib (@Shibtoken) February 16, 2026
Each SOU tracks a principal amount, which is the value being owed to a specific user. When payouts happen, the principal goes down, as well as when donations come in from the community.
The entire system, including minting, payouts, donations and transfers, was audited by Hexens, which revealed the audit has now been completed.
In a recent tweet, Hexens revealed security review of the new SOU (Shib Owes You) contracts powering a secondary NFT market for recovery and repayments following the Shibarium hack.
The assessment focused on asset recovery logic, repayment flows, NFT mechanics, access controls and overall fund safety.
The Shiba Inu community reacted to the recent update about the SOU, including Shiba Inu lead ambassador Shytoshi Kusama, who praised the team's work.
"Great work guys getting this out, kaal dhairya and the team," Kusama stated.
Shiba Inu price
The crypto market is mostly in red in early Tuesday session. At the time of writing, SHIB was down 2.36% in the last 24 hours to $0.000006431 and up 7% weekly.
card
The markets are reacting ahead of the FOMC minutes on Wednesday, which will show insights into the last interest rate decision and future monetary policy.
Investors are also expecting more delayed economic data this week, including December’s personal consumption expenditures index on Friday, the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge.
Shiba Inu retreated after a sharp surge to $0.00000724 on Feb. 14, with the next support now at $0.00000575.
New Bitcoin whales are trapped underwater, but for how long?
Bitcoin’s (BTC) price continued to consolidate near $68,000 on Tuesday, but sustained weakness below this level may generate additional sell pressure from the newest cohort of large holders.
While the long-term whales remain in profit, short-term whales are sitting on sizeable unrealized losses. One analyst highlighted how this pressure may impact BTC’s price, as other indicators point to a continued downtrend.
Key takeaways:
The short-term Bitcoin whales are sitting on net unrealized losses of 22% at current prices.
The Binance whale inflow ratio climbed to 0.62 from 0.4 in two weeks, signaling a rise in the large-holder deposits.
Long-term whales control 71% of the large-wallet supply and remain in profit above their realised price of $41,626.
New BTC whales face mounting unrealized losses
Market analyst Carmelo Alemán noted that the wallets holding 1,000–10,000 BTC control 4.483 million BTC at the moment. 1.287 million BTC (28.7%) belongs to the short-term holder (STH) whales, while 3.196 million BTC (71.3%) sits with the long-term holder (LTH) whales.
The cost basis gap is significant. STH whales have a realized price of $88,494, carrying an unrealized loss of 22%. LTH whales hold a realized price of $41,626, maintaining a 65% in profit.
Bitcoin realized price of new and old whales. Source: CryptoQuant
Alemán explained that this asymmetry shows the recent whale holders are under pressure while older capital retains a large cushion.
However, realized losses among STH whales have remained limited since Bitcoin’s all-time high of $126,000 in October 2025, reflecting resilience from the holders.
The key structural level remains near $41,626, which is the LTH realized price. As long as BTC holds above it, the data reflects redistribution rather than structural capitulation, the analyst said.
Related: Ray Dalio’s world order warning revives case for Bitcoin as neutral money
BTC whale deposits increase as pressure on long-term holders builds
The Binance whale inflow ratio, measuring the share of the 10 largest BTC deposits relative to total inflows, rose to 0.62 from 0.4 between Feb. 2 and 15. A higher ratio suggests a growing whale-driven sell-side activity.
Whale inflow ratio on Binance. Source: CryptoQuant
Crypto analyst Darkfost said that a part of the flow is linked to the “Hyperunit whale,” believed to be Garrett Jin, who moved close to 10,000 BTC onto Binance.
LTH's spent output profit ratio (SOPR) also dropped to 0.88. SOPR measures whether the coins are being sold at a profit or loss, with a reading below 1 meaning losses are being realized. The monthly average SOPR remains at 1.09, and the annual average stands at 1.87, indicating that long-term profitability is still intact.
Additionally, Alphractal founder Joao Wedson said that the long-term holder net-unrealized profit/loss (NUPL) stands at 0.36, meaning unrealized profits remain positive.
The analyst said that the past cycle bottoms formed only after the metric turned negative, implying Bitcoin may still need another dip to confirm capitulation among the LTH cohorts.
Bitcoin long-term holder NUPL. Source: Joao Wedson/X
Related: Bitcoin weekly RSI echoes mid-2022 bear market as BTC plays liquidity games
While the long-term whales remain in profit, short-term whales are sitting on sizeable unrealized losses. One analyst highlighted how this pressure may impact BTC’s price, as other indicators point to a continued downtrend.
Key takeaways:
The short-term Bitcoin whales are sitting on net unrealized losses of 22% at current prices.
The Binance whale inflow ratio climbed to 0.62 from 0.4 in two weeks, signaling a rise in the large-holder deposits.
Long-term whales control 71% of the large-wallet supply and remain in profit above their realised price of $41,626.
New BTC whales face mounting unrealized losses
Market analyst Carmelo Alemán noted that the wallets holding 1,000–10,000 BTC control 4.483 million BTC at the moment. 1.287 million BTC (28.7%) belongs to the short-term holder (STH) whales, while 3.196 million BTC (71.3%) sits with the long-term holder (LTH) whales.
The cost basis gap is significant. STH whales have a realized price of $88,494, carrying an unrealized loss of 22%. LTH whales hold a realized price of $41,626, maintaining a 65% in profit.
Bitcoin realized price of new and old whales. Source: CryptoQuant
Alemán explained that this asymmetry shows the recent whale holders are under pressure while older capital retains a large cushion.
However, realized losses among STH whales have remained limited since Bitcoin’s all-time high of $126,000 in October 2025, reflecting resilience from the holders.
The key structural level remains near $41,626, which is the LTH realized price. As long as BTC holds above it, the data reflects redistribution rather than structural capitulation, the analyst said.
Related: Ray Dalio’s world order warning revives case for Bitcoin as neutral money
BTC whale deposits increase as pressure on long-term holders builds
The Binance whale inflow ratio, measuring the share of the 10 largest BTC deposits relative to total inflows, rose to 0.62 from 0.4 between Feb. 2 and 15. A higher ratio suggests a growing whale-driven sell-side activity.
Whale inflow ratio on Binance. Source: CryptoQuant
Crypto analyst Darkfost said that a part of the flow is linked to the “Hyperunit whale,” believed to be Garrett Jin, who moved close to 10,000 BTC onto Binance.
LTH's spent output profit ratio (SOPR) also dropped to 0.88. SOPR measures whether the coins are being sold at a profit or loss, with a reading below 1 meaning losses are being realized. The monthly average SOPR remains at 1.09, and the annual average stands at 1.87, indicating that long-term profitability is still intact.
Additionally, Alphractal founder Joao Wedson said that the long-term holder net-unrealized profit/loss (NUPL) stands at 0.36, meaning unrealized profits remain positive.
The analyst said that the past cycle bottoms formed only after the metric turned negative, implying Bitcoin may still need another dip to confirm capitulation among the LTH cohorts.
Bitcoin long-term holder NUPL. Source: Joao Wedson/X
Related: Bitcoin weekly RSI echoes mid-2022 bear market as BTC plays liquidity games
Analysts Split on ETH: Alarm at $1.8K Support — Some Predict Surge to Nearly $5K
Headline: Analysts Sound Alarm on ETH — But Some See a Skyward Rebound to Nearly $5K Ethereum is at a crossroads, say leading crypto analysts, with recent price action prompting both bearish warnings and surprise bullish scenarios. Where ETH stands now - Ethereum has slipped below key supports and is currently trading roughly between $1,800 and $2,000, after failing to hold its most recent support level. - Market technicians point to two notable breakdowns in recent weeks: a lost bull flag that failed around $3,700, and the collapse of an ascending triangle that breached the $3,000 floor. Bear and bull scenarios - Crypto Patel argues the next critical line is $1,800. If ETH can hold that level, Patel expects a relief bounce that could push the token toward about $2,650. If $1,800 fails, however, he sees a meaningful downside target near $1,300 — a likely accumulation zone. - Javon Marks offers a contrasting, more bullish take. He highlights a “hidden” larger bull divergence on the charts and suggests that, with a full technical response, Ethereum could recover more than 140%—potentially rallying into the ~$4,900 area, near previous all-time highs. What to watch - Short-term: the $1,800 support and the $2,650 bounce level Patel cites. - Medium/long-term: whether the technical divergences Marks points to materialize into a sustained recovery above former resistance zones. Bottom line Traders are split. Technical breakdowns have put ETH under pressure, but some analysts still see room for a major rebound if key supports hold and bullish momentum returns. As always, these are market-based scenarios rooted in price action—traders should watch levels closely and manage risk accordingly. Read more AI-generated news on: undefined/news
Jupiter Lend Now Accepts Native Staking as Collateral for SOL Borrowing
TLDR:
Jupiter Lend allows users to borrow against natively staked SOL without converting to liquid staking tokens.
Over $30 billion in natively staked SOL on Solana can now be used as collateral inside DeFi lending markets.
Users can borrow up to 87% of their staked position’s value, with a liquidation threshold set firmly at 88%.
Six validators are live at launch, including Jupiter and Helius, with more validators set to join over time.
Native staking as collateral is now available on Jupiter Lend, opening a new lane for Solana DeFi users. Jupiter Exchange has activated a feature allowing holders to borrow against natively staked SOL directly.
No liquid staking tokens are needed at any stage of the process. The update taps into more than $30 billion in staked SOL that previously had no DeFi utility. For long-term SOL stakers, this represents a meaningful shift in how they can use their assets.
Jupiter Lend Bridges Natively Staked SOL Into DeFi Lending
For years, natively staked SOL sat outside the reach of decentralized lending markets. Holders who staked directly with validators had no way to access liquidity without unstaking first.
Jupiter Lend now addresses that gap by detecting staked positions automatically on-chain. Once detected, the position is represented as an nsTOKEN within the protocol.
Jupiter Exchange described the process clearly in a post: “$30B of SOL is natively staked. The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi. That changes today.”
The announcement confirmed the feature is live and accessible to users right away. From there, holders can borrow SOL against their staked position without any manual wrapping or conversion.
$30B of SOL is natively staked.
The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi.
That changes today.
Introducing Native Staking as Collateral, now live on Jupiter Lend pic.twitter.com/rpL2xk3e04
— Jupiter (@JupiterExchange) February 16, 2026
Staking rewards continue to compound while the collateral remains active on the platform. This means users do not lose yield while borrowing against their position.
The protocol is fully non-custodial, so users keep control of their assets throughout. Everything runs on-chain with no intermediary involved in the process.
The borrowing limit is set at up to 87% of the staked position’s value. The liquidation threshold is placed at 88%, leaving a tight but defined buffer for users.
Each validator on the platform operates through a separate vault. The vault names follow a clear format, such as nsJUPITER for Jupiter and nsHELIUS for Helius.
Six Validators Are Live at Launch With Expansion Plans Ahead
Jupiter Exchange launched the feature with six validators already integrated into the platform. Those validators are Jupiter, Helius, Nansen, Blueshift, Kiln, and Temporal.
Each carries its own dedicated vault while following the same borrowing structure. Users staked with any of these validators can access the feature right away.
As stated in the announcement: “Each has its own vault, but with the same exact flow.” So regardless of which validator a user has staked with, the steps remain the same.
The experience stays consistent across all six supported vaults on Jupiter Lend. Only the validator backing the collateral differs between each nsTOKEN position.
Jupiter Exchange also confirmed that additional validators will be added over time. The plan is to cover a broader range of the Solana validator ecosystem gradually.
As more validators join, more natively staked SOL will enter DeFi lending markets. This phased approach keeps the rollout stable while expanding access steadily.
The launch marks a concrete step toward making natively staked SOL fully liquid for DeFi purposes. Users who previously had no options can now put idle staked capital to work on Jupiter Lend.
The post Jupiter Lend Now Accepts Native Staking as Collateral for SOL Borrowing appeared first on Blockonomi.
Jupiter Lend allows users to borrow against natively staked SOL without converting to liquid staking tokens.
Over $30 billion in natively staked SOL on Solana can now be used as collateral inside DeFi lending markets.
Users can borrow up to 87% of their staked position’s value, with a liquidation threshold set firmly at 88%.
Six validators are live at launch, including Jupiter and Helius, with more validators set to join over time.
Native staking as collateral is now available on Jupiter Lend, opening a new lane for Solana DeFi users. Jupiter Exchange has activated a feature allowing holders to borrow against natively staked SOL directly.
No liquid staking tokens are needed at any stage of the process. The update taps into more than $30 billion in staked SOL that previously had no DeFi utility. For long-term SOL stakers, this represents a meaningful shift in how they can use their assets.
Jupiter Lend Bridges Natively Staked SOL Into DeFi Lending
For years, natively staked SOL sat outside the reach of decentralized lending markets. Holders who staked directly with validators had no way to access liquidity without unstaking first.
Jupiter Lend now addresses that gap by detecting staked positions automatically on-chain. Once detected, the position is represented as an nsTOKEN within the protocol.
Jupiter Exchange described the process clearly in a post: “$30B of SOL is natively staked. The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi. That changes today.”
The announcement confirmed the feature is live and accessible to users right away. From there, holders can borrow SOL against their staked position without any manual wrapping or conversion.
$30B of SOL is natively staked.
The largest pool of capital on Solana, earning yield but locked out of DeFi.
That changes today.
Introducing Native Staking as Collateral, now live on Jupiter Lend pic.twitter.com/rpL2xk3e04
— Jupiter (@JupiterExchange) February 16, 2026
Staking rewards continue to compound while the collateral remains active on the platform. This means users do not lose yield while borrowing against their position.
The protocol is fully non-custodial, so users keep control of their assets throughout. Everything runs on-chain with no intermediary involved in the process.
The borrowing limit is set at up to 87% of the staked position’s value. The liquidation threshold is placed at 88%, leaving a tight but defined buffer for users.
Each validator on the platform operates through a separate vault. The vault names follow a clear format, such as nsJUPITER for Jupiter and nsHELIUS for Helius.
Six Validators Are Live at Launch With Expansion Plans Ahead
Jupiter Exchange launched the feature with six validators already integrated into the platform. Those validators are Jupiter, Helius, Nansen, Blueshift, Kiln, and Temporal.
Each carries its own dedicated vault while following the same borrowing structure. Users staked with any of these validators can access the feature right away.
As stated in the announcement: “Each has its own vault, but with the same exact flow.” So regardless of which validator a user has staked with, the steps remain the same.
The experience stays consistent across all six supported vaults on Jupiter Lend. Only the validator backing the collateral differs between each nsTOKEN position.
Jupiter Exchange also confirmed that additional validators will be added over time. The plan is to cover a broader range of the Solana validator ecosystem gradually.
As more validators join, more natively staked SOL will enter DeFi lending markets. This phased approach keeps the rollout stable while expanding access steadily.
The launch marks a concrete step toward making natively staked SOL fully liquid for DeFi purposes. Users who previously had no options can now put idle staked capital to work on Jupiter Lend.
The post Jupiter Lend Now Accepts Native Staking as Collateral for SOL Borrowing appeared first on Blockonomi.
💰 How does the Upscale referral program work?
Today we want to break down a mechanism that many traders unfairly overlook.
They open the “Referrals” tab, see 10%, and assume it’s not much.
But what most people don’t realize is that 10% in Upscale can be more rewarding than 50% on CEX exchanges. Here’s why 👇
Centralized exchanges, or CEXs (such as Bybit, Binance, OKX), typically pay you a percentage of the trading fees generated by the trader you referred.
Some platforms offer up to 50–70% commission sharing. It sounds impressive.
🍆 But here’s the catch…
Let’s look at a simple example.
Exchange fee: 0.1%
You receive 50% of that.
Your friend trades $250 in volume.
Calculation:
$250 × 0.1% × 50% = $0.125
That’s 12 cents.
Even with $10,000 in trading volume, you’d only receive $5 in cashback.
Because the reward is calculated from trading fees, the actual payout depends entirely on how much and how long your friend trades.
💸 Upscale takes a different approach
Our trading fees are among the lowest on the market, starting from 0.0035%. We intentionally keep them low without compromising referral conditions.
Instead of sharing trading fees, we share a portion of the challenge fee.
If your friend purchases a $250 account, you receive $25 immediately at the moment of purchase.
If they purchase a $1,300 account, you receive $130.
This model keeps trading costs low for traders while making referrals meaningfully rewarding.
🔗 If you’re already recommending Upscale, make sure you’re getting paid for it in our app!
Today we want to break down a mechanism that many traders unfairly overlook.
They open the “Referrals” tab, see 10%, and assume it’s not much.
But what most people don’t realize is that 10% in Upscale can be more rewarding than 50% on CEX exchanges. Here’s why 👇
Centralized exchanges, or CEXs (such as Bybit, Binance, OKX), typically pay you a percentage of the trading fees generated by the trader you referred.
Some platforms offer up to 50–70% commission sharing. It sounds impressive.
🍆 But here’s the catch…
Let’s look at a simple example.
Exchange fee: 0.1%
You receive 50% of that.
Your friend trades $250 in volume.
Calculation:
$250 × 0.1% × 50% = $0.125
That’s 12 cents.
Even with $10,000 in trading volume, you’d only receive $5 in cashback.
Because the reward is calculated from trading fees, the actual payout depends entirely on how much and how long your friend trades.
💸 Upscale takes a different approach
Our trading fees are among the lowest on the market, starting from 0.0035%. We intentionally keep them low without compromising referral conditions.
Instead of sharing trading fees, we share a portion of the challenge fee.
If your friend purchases a $250 account, you receive $25 immediately at the moment of purchase.
If they purchase a $1,300 account, you receive $130.
This model keeps trading costs low for traders while making referrals meaningfully rewarding.
🔗 If you’re already recommending Upscale, make sure you’re getting paid for it in our app!
India Cybercrime Raid Reveals Massive Bitcoin Fraud Scheme
TL;DR
Indian authorities arrested six suspects in Ahmedabad tied to a Rs 100 crore Bitcoin fraud and a parallel e-commerce product swapping ring.
Investigators say more than one hundred investors were lured with promises of fourfold returns through crypto mining schemes.
The crackdown comes as online scams cost Indians Rs 22,495 crore in 2025, underscoring fraud risks linked to criminals misusing digital assets rather than weaknesses in Bitcoin itself.
India’s cybercrime units have uncovered a large-scale Bitcoin fraud scheme following coordinated raids in Ahmedabad, exposing how criminal networks exploit digital assets to deceive retail investors. The operation, which allegedly siphoned nearly Rs 100 crore, adds to mounting concerns about online financial crime while reinforcing the need for clearer rules and investor education without undermining crypto innovation.
India Cybercrime Raid Uncovers Rs 100 Crore Bitcoin Fraud
Ahmedabad’s Crime Branch detained Sujit Shankarrao Dev, also known as Sujit Shankarrao Jadav, a software specialist originally from Maharashtra. Police allege he promoted Bitcoin investment and mining programs that promised returns of up to four times the initial capital. More than one hundred individuals reportedly transferred funds over several months.
Authorities state that the accused collected close to Rs 100 crore, roughly $11 million, before disappearing. Investigators tracked digital footprints and coordinated with Mumbai police to locate and arrest him near Ahmedabad Airport on February 17, 2026. He faces charges under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal breach of trust and cheating, as well as provisions of the Maharashtra Protection of Interest of Depositors Act.
Officials say funds moved through digital wallets, cold storage solutions, and overseas channels. While blockchain transactions are traceable by design, investigators are working to identify accomplices and recover assets. The case illustrates how bad actors misuse Bitcoin’s infrastructure, even as the underlying network remains transparent and secure.
E Commerce Swap Ring Exposes Delivery System Weaknesses
In a parallel investigation, police arrested five individuals linked to a product swapping scheme targeting major online marketplaces such as Amazon and Flipkart. The group allegedly intercepted deliveries, replaced high-value electronics with counterfeit items, and resealed packages before final delivery.
Authorities recovered goods valued at over Rs 20.5 lakh, including eight genuine smartphones and 25 dummy devices. Two additional suspects remain at large. Investigators estimate that fraudulent returns account for between 9% and 15% of certain product categories, exposing weaknesses in logistics chains.
National data underscores the broader challenge. Online fraud caused losses of Rs 22,495 crore in 2025, with millions of complaints filed through India’s cybercrime reporting portal. A significant share relates to crypto-themed investment scams that promise guaranteed profits.
Indian authorities arrested six suspects in Ahmedabad tied to a Rs 100 crore Bitcoin fraud and a parallel e-commerce product swapping ring.
Investigators say more than one hundred investors were lured with promises of fourfold returns through crypto mining schemes.
The crackdown comes as online scams cost Indians Rs 22,495 crore in 2025, underscoring fraud risks linked to criminals misusing digital assets rather than weaknesses in Bitcoin itself.
India’s cybercrime units have uncovered a large-scale Bitcoin fraud scheme following coordinated raids in Ahmedabad, exposing how criminal networks exploit digital assets to deceive retail investors. The operation, which allegedly siphoned nearly Rs 100 crore, adds to mounting concerns about online financial crime while reinforcing the need for clearer rules and investor education without undermining crypto innovation.
India Cybercrime Raid Uncovers Rs 100 Crore Bitcoin Fraud
Ahmedabad’s Crime Branch detained Sujit Shankarrao Dev, also known as Sujit Shankarrao Jadav, a software specialist originally from Maharashtra. Police allege he promoted Bitcoin investment and mining programs that promised returns of up to four times the initial capital. More than one hundred individuals reportedly transferred funds over several months.
Authorities state that the accused collected close to Rs 100 crore, roughly $11 million, before disappearing. Investigators tracked digital footprints and coordinated with Mumbai police to locate and arrest him near Ahmedabad Airport on February 17, 2026. He faces charges under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal breach of trust and cheating, as well as provisions of the Maharashtra Protection of Interest of Depositors Act.
Officials say funds moved through digital wallets, cold storage solutions, and overseas channels. While blockchain transactions are traceable by design, investigators are working to identify accomplices and recover assets. The case illustrates how bad actors misuse Bitcoin’s infrastructure, even as the underlying network remains transparent and secure.
E Commerce Swap Ring Exposes Delivery System Weaknesses
In a parallel investigation, police arrested five individuals linked to a product swapping scheme targeting major online marketplaces such as Amazon and Flipkart. The group allegedly intercepted deliveries, replaced high-value electronics with counterfeit items, and resealed packages before final delivery.
Authorities recovered goods valued at over Rs 20.5 lakh, including eight genuine smartphones and 25 dummy devices. Two additional suspects remain at large. Investigators estimate that fraudulent returns account for between 9% and 15% of certain product categories, exposing weaknesses in logistics chains.
National data underscores the broader challenge. Online fraud caused losses of Rs 22,495 crore in 2025, with millions of complaints filed through India’s cybercrime reporting portal. A significant share relates to crypto-themed investment scams that promise guaranteed profits.
Crypto protocol ZeroLend shuts down, saying it's ‘no longer sustainable’
Decentralized lending protocol ZeroLend says it is shutting down completely after the blockchains it operates on have suffered from low user numbers and liquidity.
“After three years of building and operating the protocol, we have made the difficult decision to wind down operations,” ZeroLend’s founder, known only as “Ryker,” said in a post the protocol shared to X on Monday.
“Despite the team’s continued efforts, it has become clear that the protocol is no longer sustainable in its current form,” he added.
ZeroLend focused its services on Ethereum layer-2 blockchains, once touted by Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin as a central part of the network’s plan to scale and remain competitive.
However, Buterin said earlier this month that his vision for scaling with layer 2s “no longer makes sense,” that many have failed to properly adopt Ethereum’s security, and that scaling should increasingly come from the mainnet and native rollups.
ZeroLend operated at loss due to illiquid chains, says Ryker
ZeroLend’s Ryker said the reason for the shutdown is that several blockchains the protocol supported “have become inactive or significantly less liquid.”
He added that in some cases, oracle providers — services that fetch data and are often crucial to running protocols — have stopped support on some networks, making it “increasingly difficult to operate markets reliably or generate sustainable revenue.”
Source: ZeroLend
“At the same time, as the protocol grew, it attracted greater attention from malicious actors, including hackers and scammers,” Ryker said. “Combined with the inherently thin margins and high risk profile of lending protocols, this resulted in prolonged periods where the protocol operated at a loss.”
He added that the protocol will ensure users can withdraw their assets, adding, “We strongly encourage all users to withdraw any remaining funds from the platform.”
Ryker said some user funds may be locked on blockchains that have seen “significantly deteriorated” liquidity, and ZeroLend will upgrade the protocol’s smart contracts with the aim of redistributing stuck assets.
He added that ZeroLend has also been working to trace and recover funds tied to an exploit in February last year, where protocol users of a Bitcoin (BTC) product on the Base blockchain were exploited after an attacker drained lending pools.
Ryker said that suppliers of the product affected by the incident will receive a partial refund funded by an airdrop allocation received by the ZeroLend team.
At its height in November 2024, ZeroLend commanded a total value locked of nearly $359 million, but that has since sunk to $6.6 million, according to DefiLlama.
The ZeroLend (ZERO) token has fallen by 34% in the last 24 hours in reaction to the protocol’s shutdown and has also lost nearly all its value since hitting a peak of one-tenth of a cent in May 2024, according to CoinGecko.
Magazine: Ethereum’s Fusaka fork explained for dummies — What the hell is PeerDAS?
“After three years of building and operating the protocol, we have made the difficult decision to wind down operations,” ZeroLend’s founder, known only as “Ryker,” said in a post the protocol shared to X on Monday.
“Despite the team’s continued efforts, it has become clear that the protocol is no longer sustainable in its current form,” he added.
ZeroLend focused its services on Ethereum layer-2 blockchains, once touted by Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin as a central part of the network’s plan to scale and remain competitive.
However, Buterin said earlier this month that his vision for scaling with layer 2s “no longer makes sense,” that many have failed to properly adopt Ethereum’s security, and that scaling should increasingly come from the mainnet and native rollups.
ZeroLend operated at loss due to illiquid chains, says Ryker
ZeroLend’s Ryker said the reason for the shutdown is that several blockchains the protocol supported “have become inactive or significantly less liquid.”
He added that in some cases, oracle providers — services that fetch data and are often crucial to running protocols — have stopped support on some networks, making it “increasingly difficult to operate markets reliably or generate sustainable revenue.”
Source: ZeroLend
“At the same time, as the protocol grew, it attracted greater attention from malicious actors, including hackers and scammers,” Ryker said. “Combined with the inherently thin margins and high risk profile of lending protocols, this resulted in prolonged periods where the protocol operated at a loss.”
He added that the protocol will ensure users can withdraw their assets, adding, “We strongly encourage all users to withdraw any remaining funds from the platform.”
Ryker said some user funds may be locked on blockchains that have seen “significantly deteriorated” liquidity, and ZeroLend will upgrade the protocol’s smart contracts with the aim of redistributing stuck assets.
He added that ZeroLend has also been working to trace and recover funds tied to an exploit in February last year, where protocol users of a Bitcoin (BTC) product on the Base blockchain were exploited after an attacker drained lending pools.
Ryker said that suppliers of the product affected by the incident will receive a partial refund funded by an airdrop allocation received by the ZeroLend team.
At its height in November 2024, ZeroLend commanded a total value locked of nearly $359 million, but that has since sunk to $6.6 million, according to DefiLlama.
The ZeroLend (ZERO) token has fallen by 34% in the last 24 hours in reaction to the protocol’s shutdown and has also lost nearly all its value since hitting a peak of one-tenth of a cent in May 2024, according to CoinGecko.
Magazine: Ethereum’s Fusaka fork explained for dummies — What the hell is PeerDAS?
Zero Bad Debt
Bad debt is the biggest systemic risk in #defi lending.
It happens when a position is not liquidated in time and the collateral can no longer cover the loan.
Entire protocols have struggled because of it.
To protect themselves, many platforms offer conservative terms with lower LTVs and harsher penalties.
Jupiter Lend, powered by $JUP , takes a different approach.
With one of the most efficient liquidation engines in the industry, we can offer higher LTVs and lower liquidation penalties while reducing
protocol risk ⚡
Even during major market stress events, Lend accrued zero bad debt.
Since launch, that number remains the same.
$0.
That is what capital efficiency with safety looks like.
Bad debt is the biggest systemic risk in #defi lending.
It happens when a position is not liquidated in time and the collateral can no longer cover the loan.
Entire protocols have struggled because of it.
To protect themselves, many platforms offer conservative terms with lower LTVs and harsher penalties.
Jupiter Lend, powered by $JUP , takes a different approach.
With one of the most efficient liquidation engines in the industry, we can offer higher LTVs and lower liquidation penalties while reducing
protocol risk ⚡
Even during major market stress events, Lend accrued zero bad debt.
Since launch, that number remains the same.
$0.
That is what capital efficiency with safety looks like.
Investor Dan Tapiero says AI agents won't wire money through JPMorgan
Dan Tapiero says fracturing of fracturing capital behind crypto crash (4:47)
Bitcoin’s (BTC) sharp pullback from $125,000 to near $60,000 has rattled investors who expected a routine correction, not a 50% drawdown.
Speaking with The Wolf of All Streets and TheStreet Roundtable host Scott Melker, 50T Holdings founder Dan Tapiero said the decline was deeper than anticipated but not thesis-breaking.
“We thought we were going to get a 20%-30% correction from $125,000 down to $100,000 or $90,000. That seemed okay,” Tapiero said. “This pullback has been a little more than I would have anticipated.”
Bitcoin has been hovering around $65,000 right now, with Tapiero suggesting the $50,000-$60,000 price range represents significant long-term value.
Tapiero reiterated a long-held view that $100,000 would act as a major resistance point.
“When we were at $20,000, $30,000, $40,000, I said we’re going to hit $100,000 and then it’s just going to stop,” he said.
Tapiero described it as a natural pause where early investors would be sitting on massive profits. Instead, Bitcoin surged to $125,000 before reversing sharply.
Related: Macro Guru Dan Tapiero says ‘all value is migrating on-chain’
Fracturing of speculative capital
According to Tapiero, the downturn reflects a broader “fracturing” of investible or speculative capital across markets.
“All of the venture tokens are down 90% plus,” he noted, highlighting widespread losses in early-stage crypto projects.
At the same time, Bitcoin itself has matured into what he describes as a fully institutional asset class. Spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have drawn substantial inflows, and several companies now hold Bitcoin or Ether (ETH) on their balance sheets through various structures like debt.
Tapiero estimated that 5%-10% of total supply in major digital assets is now held in institutional formats, marking a dramatic shift from just a few years ago.
“It’s success. It’s what we all wanted,” he said.
However, speculative capital has rotated into other areas, including artificial intelligence, robotics, precious metals and other emerging sectors. Tapiero, who also has exposure to gold through his company GBI, said that capital migration is visible across markets.
Popular on TheStreet Roundtable:
Ripple CEO reveals CLARITY Act deadline
Charles Schwab quietly boosts stake in MicroStrategy
Popular crypto exchange joins growing list of Trump Accounts sponsors
Tapiero flags 'crappy' crypto projects
Tapiero also criticized the proliferation of low-quality crypto projects.
“We seem to shoot ourselves in the foot in the space with all of these crappy projects,” he argued that an oversupply of tokens has diluted investor focus and capital.
Yet while many speculative tokens struggle, Tapiero pointed to rapid growth in on-chain infrastructure and real-world adoption.
He cited decentralized crypto trading platforms such as Hyperliquid generating significant trading volume, as well as the rise of prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi. Meanwhile, stablecoins processed $33 trillion in volume last year.
Tapiero sees this as only the beginning, noting that most current stablecoins are dollar-denominated, with non-dollar stablecoins yet to meaningfully scale.
'Blockchain is the money of AI'
Looking ahead, Tapiero framed blockchain technology as foundational to the coming wave of artificial intelligence (AI). “Blockchain is the money of AI,” he said.
As AI agents transact with one another, he argued, they will require programmable money rather than traditional banking rails.
“When they send value to each other, they’re not going to be wiring money through JPMorgan,” Tapiero said. “They’re going to be using programmable money, smart contracts embedded on blockchain.”
In his view, that dynamic cements crypto’s long-term utility regardless of near-term price volatility.
Bitcoin’s (BTC) sharp pullback from $125,000 to near $60,000 has rattled investors who expected a routine correction, not a 50% drawdown.
Speaking with The Wolf of All Streets and TheStreet Roundtable host Scott Melker, 50T Holdings founder Dan Tapiero said the decline was deeper than anticipated but not thesis-breaking.
“We thought we were going to get a 20%-30% correction from $125,000 down to $100,000 or $90,000. That seemed okay,” Tapiero said. “This pullback has been a little more than I would have anticipated.”
Bitcoin has been hovering around $65,000 right now, with Tapiero suggesting the $50,000-$60,000 price range represents significant long-term value.
Tapiero reiterated a long-held view that $100,000 would act as a major resistance point.
“When we were at $20,000, $30,000, $40,000, I said we’re going to hit $100,000 and then it’s just going to stop,” he said.
Tapiero described it as a natural pause where early investors would be sitting on massive profits. Instead, Bitcoin surged to $125,000 before reversing sharply.
Related: Macro Guru Dan Tapiero says ‘all value is migrating on-chain’
Fracturing of speculative capital
According to Tapiero, the downturn reflects a broader “fracturing” of investible or speculative capital across markets.
“All of the venture tokens are down 90% plus,” he noted, highlighting widespread losses in early-stage crypto projects.
At the same time, Bitcoin itself has matured into what he describes as a fully institutional asset class. Spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have drawn substantial inflows, and several companies now hold Bitcoin or Ether (ETH) on their balance sheets through various structures like debt.
Tapiero estimated that 5%-10% of total supply in major digital assets is now held in institutional formats, marking a dramatic shift from just a few years ago.
“It’s success. It’s what we all wanted,” he said.
However, speculative capital has rotated into other areas, including artificial intelligence, robotics, precious metals and other emerging sectors. Tapiero, who also has exposure to gold through his company GBI, said that capital migration is visible across markets.
Popular on TheStreet Roundtable:
Ripple CEO reveals CLARITY Act deadline
Charles Schwab quietly boosts stake in MicroStrategy
Popular crypto exchange joins growing list of Trump Accounts sponsors
Tapiero flags 'crappy' crypto projects
Tapiero also criticized the proliferation of low-quality crypto projects.
“We seem to shoot ourselves in the foot in the space with all of these crappy projects,” he argued that an oversupply of tokens has diluted investor focus and capital.
Yet while many speculative tokens struggle, Tapiero pointed to rapid growth in on-chain infrastructure and real-world adoption.
He cited decentralized crypto trading platforms such as Hyperliquid generating significant trading volume, as well as the rise of prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi. Meanwhile, stablecoins processed $33 trillion in volume last year.
Tapiero sees this as only the beginning, noting that most current stablecoins are dollar-denominated, with non-dollar stablecoins yet to meaningfully scale.
'Blockchain is the money of AI'
Looking ahead, Tapiero framed blockchain technology as foundational to the coming wave of artificial intelligence (AI). “Blockchain is the money of AI,” he said.
As AI agents transact with one another, he argued, they will require programmable money rather than traditional banking rails.
“When they send value to each other, they’re not going to be wiring money through JPMorgan,” Tapiero said. “They’re going to be using programmable money, smart contracts embedded on blockchain.”
In his view, that dynamic cements crypto’s long-term utility regardless of near-term price volatility.
Hedge fund manager gives blunt one-word verdict on U.S. dollar
Hedge fund manager has a blunt verdict for US dollar (2:44)
Veteran investor Peter Schiff has a long history of sounding alarms about the U.S. economy.
In an interview with Sujal Jethwani, he delivered perhaps his bluntest take yet, summing up the U.S. dollar in just one word: “bad.”
The hedge fund manager, known for predicting elements of the 2008 financial crisis, reiterated his belief that a far larger crisis is still ahead, one centered not on housing, but on the dollar itself.
Related: Billionaire fund manager drops no-nonsense verdict on US dollar
Crisis delayed, not avoided
Schiff revisited his earlier warnings about the housing bubble and its aftermath. While he acknowledged he did not predict every detail perfectly, he said he correctly anticipated that artificially low interest rates, government-backed mortgages, and speculative excess would end in a severe downturn.
More importantly, he argued that policymakers’ response to the 2008 crisis, which included slashing interest rates and launching quantitative easing, merely postponed a deeper reckoning.
"I also predicted that, as a consequence of what the government would do in response to the financial crisis that we would have an even bigger crisis. That crisis was gonna be a dollar crisis and a sovereign debt crisis. That's the crisis that we haven't had."
While acknowledging critics who say his hyperinflation and dollar crash predictions have been wrong so far, he is convinced of his prediction.
"And I think that the fact that we were able to delay it for as long as we did, it was only because we pursued policies that made all the problems worse, that will ultimately lead to that crisis."
Trending on TheStreet Roundtable:
Ex-Google engineer warns of Big Tech holding 1984-level control
Popular hedge fund manager predicts Bitcoin will crash to zero
Nasdaq-listed company becomes first to offer gold dividends
Gold signals trouble ahead
Schiff pointed to gold’s recent performance as a warning sign. He said the metal’s steady rise suggests that markets may be preparing for instability in fiat currencies.
“I think that gold moving up the way it has is an indicator that the crisis is closer now,” he said, adding that even he has been surprised by how long the reckoning has taken to unfold.
Schiff’s central thesis is that the United States cannot indefinitely sustain rising debt levels and monetary expansion without consequences.
He believes a combination of mounting sovereign debt and continued reliance on money printing will eventually undermine confidence in the dollar.
During a rapid-fire segment of the interview, Schiff was asked to summarize several assets and trends in one word.
Gold? “Good.”
Bitcoin? “Add.”
U.S. dollar? “Bad.”
Related: Could Bitcoin replace the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency?
Veteran investor Peter Schiff has a long history of sounding alarms about the U.S. economy.
In an interview with Sujal Jethwani, he delivered perhaps his bluntest take yet, summing up the U.S. dollar in just one word: “bad.”
The hedge fund manager, known for predicting elements of the 2008 financial crisis, reiterated his belief that a far larger crisis is still ahead, one centered not on housing, but on the dollar itself.
Related: Billionaire fund manager drops no-nonsense verdict on US dollar
Crisis delayed, not avoided
Schiff revisited his earlier warnings about the housing bubble and its aftermath. While he acknowledged he did not predict every detail perfectly, he said he correctly anticipated that artificially low interest rates, government-backed mortgages, and speculative excess would end in a severe downturn.
More importantly, he argued that policymakers’ response to the 2008 crisis, which included slashing interest rates and launching quantitative easing, merely postponed a deeper reckoning.
"I also predicted that, as a consequence of what the government would do in response to the financial crisis that we would have an even bigger crisis. That crisis was gonna be a dollar crisis and a sovereign debt crisis. That's the crisis that we haven't had."
While acknowledging critics who say his hyperinflation and dollar crash predictions have been wrong so far, he is convinced of his prediction.
"And I think that the fact that we were able to delay it for as long as we did, it was only because we pursued policies that made all the problems worse, that will ultimately lead to that crisis."
Trending on TheStreet Roundtable:
Ex-Google engineer warns of Big Tech holding 1984-level control
Popular hedge fund manager predicts Bitcoin will crash to zero
Nasdaq-listed company becomes first to offer gold dividends
Gold signals trouble ahead
Schiff pointed to gold’s recent performance as a warning sign. He said the metal’s steady rise suggests that markets may be preparing for instability in fiat currencies.
“I think that gold moving up the way it has is an indicator that the crisis is closer now,” he said, adding that even he has been surprised by how long the reckoning has taken to unfold.
Schiff’s central thesis is that the United States cannot indefinitely sustain rising debt levels and monetary expansion without consequences.
He believes a combination of mounting sovereign debt and continued reliance on money printing will eventually undermine confidence in the dollar.
During a rapid-fire segment of the interview, Schiff was asked to summarize several assets and trends in one word.
Gold? “Good.”
Bitcoin? “Add.”
U.S. dollar? “Bad.”
Related: Could Bitcoin replace the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency?
HIVE registers record Q3 revenue of $93.1M
HIVE VEGAS (4:10)
HIVE Digital Technologies (Nasdaq: HIVE), the Bitcoin mining giant, announced its financial results for the third quarter ended Dec. 31, 2025, on Feb. 17.
The company registered a record revenue of $93.1 million in the third quarter of 2025, a growth of 219% year-over-year (YoY). Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) stood at $5.7 million.
It generated a digital currency hashrate revenue of $88.2 million during the quarter. The hashrate revenue was achieved at a direct cost of $57.8 million, including around 90% in energy costs.
Related: HIVE’s BUZZ signs $30M in AI cloud contracts
HIVE generated 885 Bitcoin in the third quarter of 2025, which marks a 23% quarter-on-quarter growth despite a 15% rise in network difficulty.
BUZZ high-performance compute (HPC) revenue stood at $4.9 million, against direct costs of $2.3 million.
GAAP net loss of $91.3 million was primarily driven by $57.4 million in accelerated depreciation related to the Paraguay expansion and non‑cash revaluation adjustments.
The company also completed the buildout of the 440 MW Paraguay facility and achieved the installed capacity of 25 EH/s. It also signed an additional 100 MW PPA in Yguazú and bought 10 hectares of land, with energization targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026.
After the quarter end, HIVE purchased an additional 63 hectares of land.
More News:
Bitcoin miners face steep costs as they pivot to AI and HPC, HIVE chair says
HIVE’s Frank Holmes says money printing will make Bitcoin ‘more valuable’
HIVE launches documentary on Paraguay’s hydro-powered Bitcoin mega-mine
AI and HPC growth
HIVE signed a two-year, $30 million contract for 504 Nvidia B200 GPUs in February to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) revenue. The company is targeting the annual recurring revenue (ARR) of $140 million by Q4 2026 for GPU AI Cloud with 11,000 GPUs.
The company is targeting $225 million ARR for total high-performing computing (HPC) revenue by the end of calendar 2026 or early 2027 as GPU cloud and colocation capacity expand.
HIVE's 'dual-engine' strategy
HIVE’s executive chairman, Frank Holmes, said, “This quarter marked an inflection point for HIVE. We delivered record revenue, scaled our renewable-powered Tier-I hashrate platform to 25 EH/s and accelerated our AI strategy."
He added, "Notably, we are also positioning Paraguay to be a leader in HPC for Latin America. With abundant and stable green energy, and a government that is strongly-aligned with the United States, we believe Tier-III data centers are the future in Paraguay."
HIVE is pursuing what it calls a “dual-engine” strategy: Bitcoin infrastructure as a cash generator and BUZZ AI Cloud as high-growth recurring revenue. The strategy provides diversification and capital allocation flexibility, the statement read.
Related: What is Bitcoin mining? Explained
HIVE Digital Technologies (Nasdaq: HIVE), the Bitcoin mining giant, announced its financial results for the third quarter ended Dec. 31, 2025, on Feb. 17.
The company registered a record revenue of $93.1 million in the third quarter of 2025, a growth of 219% year-over-year (YoY). Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) stood at $5.7 million.
It generated a digital currency hashrate revenue of $88.2 million during the quarter. The hashrate revenue was achieved at a direct cost of $57.8 million, including around 90% in energy costs.
Related: HIVE’s BUZZ signs $30M in AI cloud contracts
HIVE generated 885 Bitcoin in the third quarter of 2025, which marks a 23% quarter-on-quarter growth despite a 15% rise in network difficulty.
BUZZ high-performance compute (HPC) revenue stood at $4.9 million, against direct costs of $2.3 million.
GAAP net loss of $91.3 million was primarily driven by $57.4 million in accelerated depreciation related to the Paraguay expansion and non‑cash revaluation adjustments.
The company also completed the buildout of the 440 MW Paraguay facility and achieved the installed capacity of 25 EH/s. It also signed an additional 100 MW PPA in Yguazú and bought 10 hectares of land, with energization targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026.
After the quarter end, HIVE purchased an additional 63 hectares of land.
More News:
Bitcoin miners face steep costs as they pivot to AI and HPC, HIVE chair says
HIVE’s Frank Holmes says money printing will make Bitcoin ‘more valuable’
HIVE launches documentary on Paraguay’s hydro-powered Bitcoin mega-mine
AI and HPC growth
HIVE signed a two-year, $30 million contract for 504 Nvidia B200 GPUs in February to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) revenue. The company is targeting the annual recurring revenue (ARR) of $140 million by Q4 2026 for GPU AI Cloud with 11,000 GPUs.
The company is targeting $225 million ARR for total high-performing computing (HPC) revenue by the end of calendar 2026 or early 2027 as GPU cloud and colocation capacity expand.
HIVE's 'dual-engine' strategy
HIVE’s executive chairman, Frank Holmes, said, “This quarter marked an inflection point for HIVE. We delivered record revenue, scaled our renewable-powered Tier-I hashrate platform to 25 EH/s and accelerated our AI strategy."
He added, "Notably, we are also positioning Paraguay to be a leader in HPC for Latin America. With abundant and stable green energy, and a government that is strongly-aligned with the United States, we believe Tier-III data centers are the future in Paraguay."
HIVE is pursuing what it calls a “dual-engine” strategy: Bitcoin infrastructure as a cash generator and BUZZ AI Cloud as high-growth recurring revenue. The strategy provides diversification and capital allocation flexibility, the statement read.
Related: What is Bitcoin mining? Explained
Is Bitcoin a Democracy? Adam Back Clarifies Protocol's Nondemocratic DNA
The reneweddebate around Adam Back and Satoshi Nakamoto has shifted from identity speculation to a more structural question: does Bitcoin function as a democracy? The trigger was a public exchange over the meaning of “one-CPU-one-vote” in the 2008 Bitcoin whitepaper, with critics arguing that the phrase implies majority rule embedded in the protocol’s design.
"One-CPU-One-Vote" controversy
Back rejects this framing directly. For him,Bitcoin (BTC) does not operate as a political voting system but as a technical consensus network. In his explanation, proof of work is not a ballot but a mechanism for resolving competing block histories under Byzantine conditions.
Hashpower determines which valid chain extends, yet validity itself is defined by nodes enforcing protocol rules. Miners cannot redefine those rules unilaterally because blocks that violate consensus are rejected regardless of computational weight.
The distinction becomes operational when examining Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 110, which proposes temporarily tightening "OP_RETURN" limits to restrict nonfinancial data, such as Ordinals inscriptions.
never mind what the paper says, bitcoin is clearly not a democracy for nakamoto consensus changes. and proof of work which is what that quote is about, is a one hash one "vote" system, as a tie-breaker for byzantine agreement to solve the BGP problem with anonymous participants.
— Adam Back (@adam3us) February 17, 2026
The proposal relies on a User-Activated Soft Fork, meaning node operators would adopt new validation rules without requiring explicit miner-majority signaling. That mechanism tests the core claim: inBitcoin, enforcement power rests with validating nodes rather than with a simple majority of hashpower.
card
Back previously has criticized BIP-110 despite past support for limiting blockchain bloat, arguing that contentious rule changes activated without broad alignment risk network fragmentation and undermine Bitcoin’s stability as a monetary system. Current support levels among publicly visible nodes remain limited.
As it stands, if democracy implies majority rule overriding minority preferences, Bitcoin does not fit that description. Instead, it operates as a rules-enforced protocol, where consensus emerges from validation and economic coordination, not from ballots.
"One-CPU-One-Vote" controversy
Back rejects this framing directly. For him,Bitcoin (BTC) does not operate as a political voting system but as a technical consensus network. In his explanation, proof of work is not a ballot but a mechanism for resolving competing block histories under Byzantine conditions.
Hashpower determines which valid chain extends, yet validity itself is defined by nodes enforcing protocol rules. Miners cannot redefine those rules unilaterally because blocks that violate consensus are rejected regardless of computational weight.
The distinction becomes operational when examining Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 110, which proposes temporarily tightening "OP_RETURN" limits to restrict nonfinancial data, such as Ordinals inscriptions.
never mind what the paper says, bitcoin is clearly not a democracy for nakamoto consensus changes. and proof of work which is what that quote is about, is a one hash one "vote" system, as a tie-breaker for byzantine agreement to solve the BGP problem with anonymous participants.
— Adam Back (@adam3us) February 17, 2026
The proposal relies on a User-Activated Soft Fork, meaning node operators would adopt new validation rules without requiring explicit miner-majority signaling. That mechanism tests the core claim: inBitcoin, enforcement power rests with validating nodes rather than with a simple majority of hashpower.
card
Back previously has criticized BIP-110 despite past support for limiting blockchain bloat, arguing that contentious rule changes activated without broad alignment risk network fragmentation and undermine Bitcoin’s stability as a monetary system. Current support levels among publicly visible nodes remain limited.
As it stands, if democracy implies majority rule overriding minority preferences, Bitcoin does not fit that description. Instead, it operates as a rules-enforced protocol, where consensus emerges from validation and economic coordination, not from ballots.
Cardano Foundation Approves Initial DeFi Liquidity Withdrawal
Cardano approves initial DeFi withdrawal, praising risk management but wants more transparency before future funds.
Public dashboard, clear committee rules, and fair pay tied to contributions are key demands from the Foundation.
Budget uses high ADA price; future proposals should rely on real data and safeguards against price swings.
Cardano (ADA) is taking a cautious yet decisive step forward as the Cardano Foundation votes YES on the first stage of its DeFi Liquidity Budget withdrawal. This governance decision highlights the Foundation’s support for the project’s legal and smart contract infrastructure while urging stricter transparency and accountability.
The vote comes at a time when the interest in decentralized finance (DeFi) is on the rise in the Cardano community. It is a sign that the Foundation is taking a measured and systematic approach to funding new projects. The Foundation has acknowledged that the team has a good plan in place to mitigate risks by approving the first stage of funding. However, it is also clear that they want to see improvements before funding in the future.
The approval is based on three main points. First, the proposal includes strong risk management, with stress tests and scenario planning to protect against sudden liquidity problems. Second, the project’s legal setup in the Cayman Islands follows common industry standards for DeFi initiatives.
Third, the initiative balances decentralization, open-source principles, and practical financial returns. “We commend the team’s disclosure of their risk management policies and recommend further refinements in transparency and reporting before subsequent withdrawals,” the Foundation stated on X.
Transparency and Operational Clarity Needed
Although the Foundation is in support of the project, it identifies some areas that require improvement. It would like to see a public dashboard where the community can monitor the liquidity, funds, and rewards in real time. This will enable all of them to see how the project is going.
The Foundation would also like to see a better conflict-of-interest policy that includes project directors, ensuring that key decisions are transparent. In addition to that, there are operational details such as committee election, member rotation, and handling unused funds that require clarity.
Finally, the Foundation questions the current pay system. It believes payments should match actual contributions instead of being fixed, rewarding people fairly for their work.
The Foundation also pointed out the assumptions about budgeting, stating that the ADA price used in the proposal was higher than the market price, potentially affecting budgeting. Therefore, it recommends that future proposals should use proper and data-driven pricing or establish a safeguard against volatility.
The post Cardano Foundation Approves Initial DeFi Liquidity Withdrawal appears on Crypto Front News. Visit our website to read more interesting articles about cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and digital assets.
Public dashboard, clear committee rules, and fair pay tied to contributions are key demands from the Foundation.
Budget uses high ADA price; future proposals should rely on real data and safeguards against price swings.
Cardano (ADA) is taking a cautious yet decisive step forward as the Cardano Foundation votes YES on the first stage of its DeFi Liquidity Budget withdrawal. This governance decision highlights the Foundation’s support for the project’s legal and smart contract infrastructure while urging stricter transparency and accountability.
The vote comes at a time when the interest in decentralized finance (DeFi) is on the rise in the Cardano community. It is a sign that the Foundation is taking a measured and systematic approach to funding new projects. The Foundation has acknowledged that the team has a good plan in place to mitigate risks by approving the first stage of funding. However, it is also clear that they want to see improvements before funding in the future.
The approval is based on three main points. First, the proposal includes strong risk management, with stress tests and scenario planning to protect against sudden liquidity problems. Second, the project’s legal setup in the Cayman Islands follows common industry standards for DeFi initiatives.
Third, the initiative balances decentralization, open-source principles, and practical financial returns. “We commend the team’s disclosure of their risk management policies and recommend further refinements in transparency and reporting before subsequent withdrawals,” the Foundation stated on X.
Transparency and Operational Clarity Needed
Although the Foundation is in support of the project, it identifies some areas that require improvement. It would like to see a public dashboard where the community can monitor the liquidity, funds, and rewards in real time. This will enable all of them to see how the project is going.
The Foundation would also like to see a better conflict-of-interest policy that includes project directors, ensuring that key decisions are transparent. In addition to that, there are operational details such as committee election, member rotation, and handling unused funds that require clarity.
Finally, the Foundation questions the current pay system. It believes payments should match actual contributions instead of being fixed, rewarding people fairly for their work.
The Foundation also pointed out the assumptions about budgeting, stating that the ADA price used in the proposal was higher than the market price, potentially affecting budgeting. Therefore, it recommends that future proposals should use proper and data-driven pricing or establish a safeguard against volatility.
The post Cardano Foundation Approves Initial DeFi Liquidity Withdrawal appears on Crypto Front News. Visit our website to read more interesting articles about cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and digital assets.
310 Sell Alerts in 6 Hours: Single Wallet Floods XRP Order Book With 310M Tokens
The post 310 Sell Alerts in 6 Hours: Single Wallet Floods XRP Order Book With 310M Tokens appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News
Heavy order-book activity has been recorded on the XRP Ledger (XRPL) after automated monitoring systems detected 310 sell-side whale alerts within six hours, most of them linked to a single wallet associated with Bitstamp. The activity comes at a time when XRP price action remains weak and locked inside an important consolidation range.
One Wallet Generated Hundreds of Rapid Sell Orders
According to an XRPL validator tracking whale movements, a single wallet repeatedly placed sell orders of roughly 1 million XRP, canceled them, and then replaced them every 15 to 30 seconds. In total, nearly 310 million XRP moved through the order book from that address during the monitoring period.
Analytics systems flagged the activity automatically based on large order-book movements tied to specific wallet addresses. Some flagged wallets were exchange-linked institutional participants, while others had no exchange association or identifiable reputation, suggesting mixed participation across the order flow.
Such repeated placement-and-cancellation activity does not always represent actual selling volume. In many cases, it mainly changes the visual depth of the order book and can influence trader sentiment rather than immediately pushing prices lower.
XRP Price Structure Remains Weak Despite Activity
XRP price action continues to trade within a sensitive technical region where the market has not yet confirmed a clear local bottom. The asset is holding above a major support area near $1.21, but upside momentum has remained limited.
Attempts to move above the $1.56 resistance zone, which aligns with a key Fibonacci retracement level, were rejected, showing that buyers have not yet regained control. In the short term, XRP has been moving sideways between micro-support around $1.40–$1.45 and micro-resistance between $1.49–$1.55, signaling consolidation rather than a confirmed reversal.
Stronger upside confirmation would require a decisive move above $1.55, followed by a break above $1.67, which would indicate improving momentum. Lower support remains in the $1.19–$1.36 region, an area that previously attracted buying interest.
Heavy order-book activity has been recorded on the XRP Ledger (XRPL) after automated monitoring systems detected 310 sell-side whale alerts within six hours, most of them linked to a single wallet associated with Bitstamp. The activity comes at a time when XRP price action remains weak and locked inside an important consolidation range.
One Wallet Generated Hundreds of Rapid Sell Orders
According to an XRPL validator tracking whale movements, a single wallet repeatedly placed sell orders of roughly 1 million XRP, canceled them, and then replaced them every 15 to 30 seconds. In total, nearly 310 million XRP moved through the order book from that address during the monitoring period.
Analytics systems flagged the activity automatically based on large order-book movements tied to specific wallet addresses. Some flagged wallets were exchange-linked institutional participants, while others had no exchange association or identifiable reputation, suggesting mixed participation across the order flow.
Such repeated placement-and-cancellation activity does not always represent actual selling volume. In many cases, it mainly changes the visual depth of the order book and can influence trader sentiment rather than immediately pushing prices lower.
XRP Price Structure Remains Weak Despite Activity
XRP price action continues to trade within a sensitive technical region where the market has not yet confirmed a clear local bottom. The asset is holding above a major support area near $1.21, but upside momentum has remained limited.
Attempts to move above the $1.56 resistance zone, which aligns with a key Fibonacci retracement level, were rejected, showing that buyers have not yet regained control. In the short term, XRP has been moving sideways between micro-support around $1.40–$1.45 and micro-resistance between $1.49–$1.55, signaling consolidation rather than a confirmed reversal.
Stronger upside confirmation would require a decisive move above $1.55, followed by a break above $1.67, which would indicate improving momentum. Lower support remains in the $1.19–$1.36 region, an area that previously attracted buying interest.