Finance Police

Bitcoin (BTC) slipped back into bearish territory after a brief relief rally as risk-off sentiment returned. Investor sentiment soured after a tech sell-off hit US markets, forcing investors to cut exposure to tech assets. 

Cryptocurrency markets mirrored the downtrend as BTC slipped below $75,000 for the second time this week, dropping to a low of $72,859 on Coinbase before settling at $75,661. 

However, some market experts, including Joe Burnett, Vice President of Bitcoin Strategy at Strive, believe BTC’s recent decline and price action are nothing out of the ordinary. 

Michael Burry Warns Of “Catastrophe” If Bitcoin Continues Dropping 

Legendary investor Michael Burry has warned that if Bitcoin continues its decline, it could trigger a catastrophic $1 billion sell-off in gold and silver. Burry argued that Bitcoin has been projected as a “purely speculative asset,” and has failed as a safe haven asset along the lines of gold. He added that crypto’s correlation with precious metals has created “sickening scenarios” that are now within reach. 

Michael Burry warned that Bitcoin’s ongoing decline could destroy significant value, especially for companies holding large BTC reserves. He said Bitcoin has failed as a safe haven like gold and could push aggressive corporate holders into bankruptcy, triggering broader market fallout. He also highlighted Bitcoin’s correlation with the S&P 500 and its impact on recent drops in gold and silver.

Burry’s prediction comes at a time when the flagship cryptocurrency plunged to a low of $72,859, as selling pressure returned after a brief recovery. Burry also warned that Bitcoin treasury companies could face millions in losses. The ace investor highlighted Michael Saylor’s Strategy, stating that it could lose millions if Bitcoin drops another 10%. 

Strategy sees an existential crisis if BTC were to fall to $60,000. This would “find capital markets essentially closed.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Analysis 

Bitcoin (BTC) plunged under the $75,000 mark the second time this week as selling pressure returned after a brief relief rally that saw the flagship cryptocurrency briefly cross $79,000. Bulls failed to defend the $73,000 mark on Tuesday, extending a broader risk-off sentiment. The flagship cryptocurrency is trading at a 15% year-to-date loss, and is down over 45% from its all-time high of $126,267. BTC’s recent price action has reinforced investor concerns that its bull cycle may have ended. 

Analysts believe the uncertainty in the US stock market is the primary driver of the sell-off across crypto. Investors have long questioned whether the costs tied to AI infrastructure, along with lofty valuations, are sustainable. Investors believe that demand and revenue could fall short of industry projections. Waning investor sentiment is clearly visible across the stock prices of the “Magnificent Seven,” S&P 500, Dow Jones, and NASDAQ. NVIDIA fell 3.4% while Microsoft and Amazon dropped 2.7%. 

Meanwhile, liquidations are adding more pressure on Bitcoin, accelerating the pace of selling. According to the available data, around $127.25 million in Bitcoin long positions have been liquidated. Some analysts have suggested that the decline means Bitcoin is available at a deep discount. However, dip buying by the likes of Strategy has done little to stem the decline. However, Joe Burnett, Strive’s vice president of Bitcoin strategy, says Bitcoin’s price action is “nothing out of the ordinary.”

Bitcoin is down ~40% from its October high while U.S. equities remain near all-time highs, with the S&P 500 down less than 10%. Under those conditions, a possible ~45% bitcoin drawdown aligns closely with historical volatility. Volatility of this magnitude remains a symptom of a rapidly monetizing asset. If equities weaken further, additional downside is certainly possible. Nasdaq is down ~2% today, and the S&P 500 is down ~1.3%. My key takeaway is simple: Bitcoin’s recent volatility reflects normal market behavior within an unstable fiat credit system.

Bitcoin ended the previous weekend in the red, dropping nearly 3% on Sunday to $86,561. The price recovered on Monday, rising almost 2% to cross $88,000 and settle at $88,250. Buyers retained control on Tuesday as the flagship cryptocurrency rose 0.98% to $89,116. BTC briefly crossed the $90,000 mark on Wednesday and reached an intraday high of $90,476 before settling at $89,162.

Source: TradingView

Selling pressure returned on Thursday as BTC plunged over 5% to $84,513. Buyers retained control on Friday as the price fell to $81,000 before settling at $84,110. Selling pressure intensified on Saturday as BTC plunged below the key $80,000 mark, falling to a low of $75,644 before settling at $78,648. Price action remained bearish on Sunday as BTC fell 2.24% to $76,895. The current week started with BTC falling to $74,502, its lowest level since April 2025. The price recovered to reclaim the $78,000 mark and settle at $78,666. Selling pressure returned on Tuesday as BTC plunged to a low of $72,859 before settling at $75,661. The price is marginally up during the ongoing session, trading around $75,697.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

Ebene, Mauritius, February 4th, 2026, FinanceWire

Skyriss Securities (Mauritius) Ltd, a regulated multi-asset online trading broker, today announced the continued expansion of its global platform and client services, reinforcing its long-term strategy of building trader-focused infrastructure grounded in real market experience, operational transparency, and regulatory compliance.

As part of this expansion, Skyriss has strengthened its trading infrastructure, enhanced liquidity partnerships, and scaled its client support operations across key international markets. The company has also invested in platform optimization initiatives aimed at improving execution speed, system resilience, and service availability during periods of elevated market activity. These developments form part of Skyriss’s broader strategy to support sustainable growth while maintaining regulatory alignment and operational integrity.

The company operates under an Investment Dealer License (No. GB25204272) issued by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Mauritius and maintains its registered office at Office 133, Ebene Junction, Rue De La Democratie, Ebene, Mauritius.

Founded by market professionals who began their careers on the trading side of the industry, Skyriss was built in response to common challenges faced by active traders, including delayed execution, unclear pricing, inconsistent platform performance, and limited client support. These early experiences formed the foundation of the company’s guiding philosophy: “Built for Traders, By Traders.”

Rather than designing systems solely around commercial objectives, Skyriss developed its platform based on real trading behavior, emphasizing execution stability during volatile market conditions, pricing transparency during high-impact economic events, and reliability during critical decision-making periods.

Founded by seasoned market professionals, Skyriss was built in direct response to the real-world limitations active traders continue to face — from execution delays and opaque pricing to unstable platform performance. These early experiences remain central to the company’s mission of delivering a trading environment defined by consistency, transparency, and long-term client trust.

Today, Skyriss provides clients with access to foreign exchange, commodities, indices, and equities through a robust trading infrastructure that combines institutional-grade liquidity, advanced order routing systems, and automated risk management frameworks designed to support consistent execution and capital protection.

In the United Arab Emirates, Skyriss Financial Consultancy L.L.C operates under regulation by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) under license number 20200000268 for Introduction and Promotion activities. The entity serves as an affiliate partner of Skyriss Financial Ltd (Mauritius) and Skyriss Securities Ltd (St. Lucia), supporting regional client engagement, regulatory alignment, and market development.

The Skyriss leadership team notes that brokerages founded by former traders tend to demonstrate stronger alignment between platform architecture and client requirements, particularly in fast-moving and highly competitive global markets.

Skyriss’s continued investment in technology, compliance, and service infrastructure reflects its commitment to sustainable growth and long-term client relationships.

For more information about Skyriss’s platform, regulatory framework, and service offerings, users can visit www.skyriss.com

Additional resources and educational materials are available to support both new and experienced traders.

About Skyriss

Skyriss Securities (Mauritius) Ltd is a regulated multi-asset brokerage firm offering access to global financial markets, including foreign exchange, commodities, indices, and equities. Operating under the supervision of the Financial Services Commission of Mauritius, the company provides trading services supported by institutional liquidity, advanced technology infrastructure, and comprehensive risk management systems.

Founded by experienced market participants, Skyriss is guided by its philosophy, “Built for Traders, By Traders,” and is committed to delivering transparent, reliable, and client-centric trading solutions. Through its international regulatory framework and regional partnerships, the company continues to expand its presence across key global markets.

https://youtu.be/DDIHm_A6qnI?si=MVtjmzRBfWqu-h-E

Contact

Skyriss Securities (Mauritius) LTD
Info@skyriss.com
+971 52 150 0873

Ebene, Mauritius, February 4th, 2026, FinanceWire

PU Prime launched The Grind, the second phase of its three-part global brand campaign, “Champion in You”, shifting the focus from the decision to begin trading. The Grind turns attention to what happens after that initial spark: the routines, setbacks, and emotional resilience required to stay committed over time.

Developed in alignment with its regional sponsorship of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), PU Prime, dedicated to empowering traders worldwide, created “Champion in You” around the belief that success in trading, much like a champion, is shaped not by moments of inspiration alone, but by consistency, preparation, and the ability to manage emotions under pressure.

Phase 2: The Grind

The Grind highlights the often-unseen realities of trading progress: slow learning curves, repeated effort, loneliness, and periods where effort does not immediately translate into results. Through the video, traders take time to sit down and share experiences of self-doubt and frustration. Rather than focusing on outcomes, The Grind emphasises the process of building routines, learning from losses, and developing emotional control over time.

As one of the interviewed traders, April reflected,

I should treat this as a degree.

For many participants, this phase marked the moment trading became less about ambition and more about commitment.

Discipline Over Motivation

What we want to highlight in this phase is the reality of sustained progress,

said Mr. Daniel Bruce, Managing Director at PU Prime. Trading success is shaped by discipline, routine, and emotional control developed over time, rather than short-term motivation or quick results.

Markets heading into late January 2026 reflect a balance between cautious optimism and elevated risk. In the absence of a clear outlook, resilience becomes increasingly important. The launch of The Grind marks the second chapter of “Champion in You”, reinforcing PU Prime’s belief that long-term progress in trading is shaped by discipline, consistency, and the ability to stay committed through uncertainty.

About PU Prime

Founded in 2015, PU Prime is a leading global fintech company and trusted CFD broker. Today, it offers regulated financial products across forex, commodities, indices, shares, and bonds. Operating in over 190 countries with more than 40 million app downloads, PU Prime provides innovative trading platforms and an integrated copy trading feature, empowering traders worldwide to achieve financial success with confidence.

For media enquiries, users can contact: media@puprime.com 

Contact

Sim
PU Prime
kahlock.sim@puprime.com

New York, New York, United States, February 3rd, 2026, Chainwire

Superform brings a familiar mobile experience to onchain finance, helping users grow their money while keeping full control of their assets.

Today, Superform, the first user-owned neobank, announced its mobile app launch,marking a key milestone in its efforts to build a user-owned neobank. The app extends the reach of Superform’s SuperVaults: non-custodial onchain vaults that automatically deploy user capital across high-performing DeFi strategies such as stablecoin lending and liquidity provisioning. The launch makes DeFi more accessible by delivering a user experience that feels like seamless internet banking while providing access to powerful DeFi returns. The app allows users to earn more yield on their USD, BTC, and ETH, marking the company’s official expansion into the U.S. market.

The app is designed for users who want a simpler way to grow their money without the stress of managing wallets, understanding protocols or navigating multiple chains. Users can create an account, onramp with fiat, and start earning in minutes. Beyond earning, users can swap, send, and manage their money across chains, all while maintaining full custody and control of their assets. 

Deposits are routed through SuperVaults, Superform’s automated savings products that deploys capital across high-performing DeFi strategies such as stablecoin lending and liquidity provisioning. The experience is built to feel familiar to anyone who has used a fintech app while delivering yields that consistently outperform traditional benchmarks. SuperVaults have generated average returns of 8.4% APY, compared to just 4.3% for T-Bills.

You should not need to be technical to earn more onchain,

said Vikram Arun, Co-Founder and CEO of Superform. The mobile app is the next step in our mission to make crypto-native strategies feel like standard financial products. It offers a true set and forget experience where users can deposit once and earn automatically without needing to manage or monitor anything.

While DeFi has matured significantly, consumers still lack a complete financial alternative to traditional banks. Traditional savings options provide near-zero returns after inflation, while crypto-native yield remains fragmented across multiple tools and protocols. Users are forced to choose between the simplicity of custodial platforms that control their assets, or the complexity of self-custody solutions that require technical expertise.

Superform addresses this by building infrastructure that consolidates and simplifies. SuperVaults offer users exposure to curated opportunities through a single, scalable product, eliminating the need to stitch together tools or analyze protocols. With features like boosted APYs, Superform Points, and tiered rewards, the platform combines the performance of DeFi with the usability of traditional financial apps. The mobile app builds on traction from Superform’s desktop platform, which currently manages over $180 million in user deposits across 1000+ vaults, with strategies spanning more than 70 protocols. 

This launch marks the first in a series of major product rollouts and upgrades coming to the Superform ecosystem through the end of the year. For updates, users can visit superform.xyz or follow @superformxyz on X.

About Superform

Superform is the first user owned neo-bank to effortlessly grow your crypto portfolio. Superform helps users maximize returns on their crypto by providing access to over 800 earning opportunities with $10B in TVL across 50 protocols. Superform’s SuperVaults product offers single-transaction deposits into multi-protocol, yield bearing vaults. These “set and forget” opportunities are focused on earning users stablecoin yields. SuperVaults have been audited by yAudit and multiple independent security researchers from Spearbit.

Since launching in Q2 2024, Superform has delivered secure and optimized yield to over 180,000 depositors. Currently, users are earning an average APY of over 8.4%. Backed by $11M in funding from leading investors including VanEck Ventures, Polychain Capital, Circle Ventures, BlockTower Capital, Maven11 Capital, CMT Digital, and Arthur Hayes, Superform Labs is simplifying the path to onchain wealth.

Contact

PR Manager
Aarya Shah
aarya@serotonin.co

Vaduz, Liechtenstein, February 3rd, 2026, Chainwire

A globally respected investor and founder of Real Vision brings decades of financial market insight to xMoney’s leadership team

xMoney, a leading provider of compliant payment infrastructure bridging traditional finance and digital assets, today announced that Raoul Pal has joined the company as a Strategic Advisor.

Raoul Pal is one of the most widely respected macro thinkers of his generation. An investor, entrepreneur, and financial commentator, he has spent decades analyzing how money moves, how markets evolve, and how technological shifts reshape global financial systems. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment, as global payments transition toward regulated digital rails, stablecoins, and on-chain settlement.

With Raoul’s strategic guidance, xMoney aims to further strengthen its position at the intersection of payments, regulation, and digital assets – building infrastructure that enables seamless value transfer across traditional currencies, cryptocurrencies, and stablecoins.

A Career Spanning Global Finance and Digital Assets

Raoul began his career in traditional finance, holding senior roles at Goldman Sachs, where he led hedge fund sales for equities and derivatives in Europe, and later at GLG Partners, where he co-managed a global macro fund alongside some of the world’s most respected hedge fund managers.

In 2005, he founded Global Macro Investor (GMI), which has since become a trusted research platform for hedge funds, family offices, pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, registered investment advisors, and high-net-worth investors worldwide. GMI is widely recognized for its independent macro research and strong long-term performance track record.

Raoul co-founded Real Vision in 2014, transforming financial media by making institutional-grade market intelligence accessible to a global audience. What began as a video-first platform evolved into a global financial knowledge network with millions of users across nearly every country.

The new xMoney advisor is also the co-founder of Exponential Age Asset Management (EXPAAM), an investment firm built specifically for the digital asset economy. Its flagship fund, the Exponential Age Digital Asset Fund, provides curated exposure to top crypto hedge funds by combining macroeconomic frameworks with deep digital asset research.

Supporting the Future of Payments

Raoul’s long-standing belief is that the world is experiencing a structural shift in money, technology, and market infrastructure – not a temporary trend. Payments, in particular, are undergoing one of the most significant transformations in decades.

​​Unlike many payment platforms that expand globally first and retrofit compliance later, xMoney has taken a regional-first approach, building its infrastructure within Europe, one of the most highly regulated financial environments in the world. This strategy enables xMoney to meet stringent regulatory standards from day one, while creating a scalable foundation for global expansion aligned with frameworks such as MiCA.

Crypto only fulfills its promise when it disappears into the background,

said Raoul Pal. The real winners will be the platforms that make global payments simple, compliant, and invisible. That’s what excites me the most about xMoney.

As Strategic Advisor, Raoul will work closely with xMoney’s leadership team, focusing on long-term strategy, market structure, and anticipating how global money movement will evolve as regulated stablecoins, compliant on-chain settlement, and hybrid payment models become foundational financial infrastructure.

We’re building payment rails for the future, starting in the most regulated markets first,

said Gregorious Siourounis, Co-Founder & CEO of xMoney. That discipline gives us a structural advantage as digital assets move into mainstream finance. Raoul’s depth of experience, macro insight, and clarity of thought reinforce our belief that long-term winners in payments will be compliant, scalable, and globally interoperable.

The appointment underscores xMoney’s commitment to building a compliant, scalable payment infrastructure that bridges traditional finance and Web3, enabling businesses and consumers to transact seamlessly across borders, currencies, and technologies.

About xMoney

xMoney is a pioneering payments company with strategic European licenses, focused on building a seamless, secure, and future-ready payments ecosystem. By combining cutting-edge technology, strong regulatory compliance, and a broad product suite spanning traditional and digital assets, xMoney bridges traditional finance and next-generation payment rails.

Website: www.xmoney.com 

Contact

Marketing Lead
Rus Alex
xMoney
alex.rus@xmoney.com

Bitcoin (BTC) and the cryptocurrency market staged a strong relief rally after the weekend bloodbath, which saw prices across the board drop to multi-month lows, triggering billions in liquidations. BTC plunged to a low of $74,502 on Monday before rebounding to reclaim the $78,000 mark and move to its $78,666. 

The latest downtrend has been attributed to regulatory uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, macroeconomic headwinds, and a hawkish outlook for Federal Reserve policy. 

Binance Restores Withdrawals After Disruption 

Binance has restored withdrawals after a brief outage due to technical difficulties. The exchange alerted users about the issue in a post on X, stating, 

We are aware of some technical difficulties affecting withdrawals on the platform. Our team is already working on a fix, and services will resume as soon as possible.

According to reports, the disruption lasted around 20 minutes, with Binance fixing the issue and bringing withdrawals back online. The disruption occurred at a challenging time for the crypto industry, as Bitcoin (BTC) and other tokens plummeted to multi-month lows. According to CoinGlass, around 2.56 billion were liquidated, as digital assets, equities, and metals plunged as part of a broader market pullback.

Strategy Announces Bitcoin Buy Despite BTC Falling Below Average Cost 

Latest SEC filings have revealed that Strategy has bought 855 BTC at around $88,000 per coin. The purchase comes despite the asset falling below its average cost for the first time since 2023. The flagship cryptocurrency started the week above $87,000 before briefly tapping $90,000. However, it lost momentum over the weekend and plunged to a low of $75,000 on Sunday, before dropping even further on Monday. Strategy currently holds 713,502 BTC, purchased for around $54.2 billion. 

Strategy executive chairman Michael Saylor hinted at the buy in a cryptic post on X, stating, 

“More orange.”

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Analysis 

Bitcoin (BTC) made a recovery of sorts after the weekend’s dramatic selloff, which saw billions liquidated as prices fell to multi-month lows. The flagship cryptocurrency slipped below $75,000 on Monday, dropping to a low of $74,502 before recovering to reclaim the $78,000 mark and settling at $78,666. The price is marginally down during the ongoing session, trading around $78,318. 

Spot Bitcoin ETFs also rebounded after a week of heavy outflows, pulling in around $562 million in inflows and breaking a four-day outflow streak that saw around $1.5 billion in outflows. However, analysts have cautioned that ETFs and the broader cryptocurrency market will continue to face pressure due to institutional selling and macro uncertainty. ETFs rebounded late on Monday as Bitcoin recovered from a low of $75,000 to briefly reclaim the $79,000 mark before moving to its current level of $78,316. 

Markets plunged over the weekend, with selling pressure intensified by prolonged liquidations and thin liquidity. Gabe Selby, Head of Research at CF Benchmarks, stated, 

Bitcoin has completed the bearish sequence that began with the October 10 deleveraging event, with the recent washout retesting—and briefly undercutting—the April 2025 ‘Liberation Day’ lows around $74,000.

Bitcoin ended the previous weekend in the red, dropping nearly 3% on Sunday to $86,561. The price recovered on Monday, rising almost 2% to cross $88,000 and settle at $88,250. Buyers retained control on Tuesday as the flagship cryptocurrency rose 0.98% to $89,116. BTC briefly crossed the $90,000 mark on Wednesday and reached an intraday high of $90,476 before settling at 89,162.

Source: TradingView

Selling pressure returned on Thursday as BTC plunged over 5% to $84,513. Buyers retained control on Friday as the price fell to $81,000 before settling at $84,110. Selling pressure intensified on Saturday as BTC plunged below the key $80,000 mark, falling to a low of $75,644 before settling at $78,648. Price action remained bearish on Sunday as BTC fell 2.24% to $76,895. The current week started with BTC falling to $74,502, its lowest level since April 2025. The price recovered to reclaim the $78,000 mark and settle at $78,666. BTC is marginally down during the ongoing session, trading around $78,324.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

Road Town, British Virgin Islands, February 3rd, 2026, FinanceWire

1inch today released the results of a global survey examining DeFi user sentiment heading into 2026, revealing that 72% of respondents worldwide express optimism about the sector’s future. U.S.-based users reported one of the highest confidence levels at 83%, while sentiment across Asian markets was comparatively lower, with respondents in Singapore (64%), Taiwan (63%), and Hong Kong (56%). The survey gathered responses from 8,199 individuals and was conducted by 1inch in collaboration with Bitget Wallet, Ondo, BOB, DaGama, and SafePal.

According to 1inch, growing regulatory clarity and increased institutional participation appear to be contributing to improved user sentiment. While respondents continue to identify structural and operational challenges within DeFi, the survey data indicates that concerns about external factors that could significantly disrupt the sector have moderated.

Analysis by user experience level shows that optimism increases after the first year of participation in crypto. Respondents with more than one year of DeFi experience reported consistently higher positive sentiment of approximately 73%, compared to just over 60% among newer users. Overall, the findings suggest that users with prior exposure to crypto market cycles tend to express greater confidence in DeFi’s longer-term outlook.

Key user priorities and barriers to adoption

The survey also looked into the biggest frustrations of DeFi users, finding that paying gas is the number one annoyance, mentioned by 27% of respondents. Second is security risks with 22%, followed by Failed or slow transactions at 18%, and bridges at 14%. 

When analyzing regulatory concern on its own, U.S. users were found to be more at ease, instead focusing more on practical issues such as security, fees, and gas costs. In contrast, non-U.S. respondents placed a greater emphasis on regulation and market structure, often identifying uncertainty around these factors as a key constraint identified by the respondents. However, it is important to note that perceptions of regulation are subjective and sentiment-driven, rather than an assessment of actual regulatory risk.

Finally, when looking at the factors that influence users to try new projects or assets, liquidity was found to be the dominant factor, cited by 56% of respondents. Trust-related fundamentals then followed, with clear backing and custody (39%), legal and regulatory clarity (37%), and transparency and attestations (35%) all playing a major role in user analysis of projects, according to respondents. This was then followed by on-chain functionality, with 31% valuing the ability to trade on-chain. Unsurprisingly, factors such as brand recognition (10%) and “vibes” (4%) had minimal influence over users actual decision, underscoring that while hype plays a part in attracting attention, its impact on conversion is limited. Thus substance over style remains true in DeFi. 

Confidence in DeFi comes with experience, and experience takes time,

said Sergej Kunz, Co-founder of 1inch. As the industry looks to grow and onboard new users, we must make the process as seamless as possible—reducing friction around gas fees and bridges, while meeting users’ priorities around liquidity, security and trust.

Methodology

The data referenced in this report is drawn from a global user survey conducted by 1inch in collaboration with select DeFi ecosystem projects, including Bitget Wallet, Ondo, BOB, DaGama and SafePal. The survey was distributed across partner social channels, collecting a total of 8,199 responses from DeFi users worldwide. Responses were aggregated and analyzed to assess user sentiment, experience levels, and outlook on the future of decentralized finance.

About 1inch

1inch accelerates decentralized finance with a seamless crypto trading experience for 26M users. Beyond being the top platform for low-cost, efficient token swaps with $600M+ in daily trades, 1inch offers a range of innovative tools, including a secure self-custodial wallet, a portfolio tracker for managing digital assets, a dedicated business portal giving access to its cutting-edge technology, and even a debit card for easy crypto spending. By continuously innovating, 1inch is simplifying DeFi for everyone. 

Website | 1inch Business | 1inch Network | Follow on X | Explore Blog

Contact

PR lead
Pavel Kruglov
1inch
p.kruglov@1inch.io

In the rapidly evolving Canadian fintech landscape, AI continues to drive advancements in cryptocurrency analysis, financial advisory services, and insurance operations. Recent developments highlight how local and global technologies are converging to deliver more accurate, efficient, and accessible financial tools.

Guavy Unveils iOS App for AI-Driven Crypto Market Sentiment Tracking

Calgary-headquartered Guavy, a cryptocurrency intelligence platform established in 2016, has rolled out its dedicated iOS mobile application, making sophisticated AI-based market insights accessible to everyday investors. An Android edition is slated for release in early 2026.

The app leverages a powerful large language model to process and evaluate vast datasets—hundreds of millions of points drawn from roughly 350 diverse channels, including news outlets, blogs, social media, and professional feeds. This multi-source approach assigns weighted importance to inputs, generating clear bullish, bearish, or neutral signals while mitigating individual source biases, as emphasized by founder and CEO Donna Tilden.

Guavy’s institutional API has already attracted UK-based hedge funds and growing interest from family offices, serving as a supplementary data layer rather than a standalone trading trigger. The new consumer-facing app targets retail participants, offering features like risk-profile matching, entry/exit timing guidance, a real-time fear and greed index, customizable watchlists, alerts, and tiered subscriptions (free basic access alongside a premium Plus plan at $59.99 annually for enhanced capabilities).

Looking ahead, Tilden aims to secure additional funding to broaden coverage to tokenized real-world assets and securities. This aligns with industry momentum, such as the New York Stock Exchange’s initiatives for 24/7 tokenized trading of equities and ETFs. Guavy prioritizes seamless integration, positioning it as an attractive option for wealth managers seeking to incorporate advanced sentiment data into client portfolios with minimal implementation hurdles.

VibePlan Secures Key Enterprise Adoption in Financial Planning Sector

Vancouver’s Customplan Financial Advisors Inc. has become the inaugural major client for VibePlan, adopting its specialized Canadian-focused financial planning and analytics solution.

Originally introduced as Evad AI in 2024, VibePlan delivers an intelligent system equipped with behavioral analytics, structured advisory pathways, and client engagement features to strengthen advisor-client connections. Led by president and CEO Dave Faulkner—a veteran entrepreneur behind earlier ventures like FP Solutions and RazorPlan—the platform emphasizes practical, relationship-oriented planning tools tailored to the Canadian market.

This partnership marks a significant milestone, validating VibePlan’s value proposition for scaling advisory practices through AI-enhanced workflows and insights.

Manulife Integrates Adaptive ML for Optimized Small Language Models

Leading Canadian insurer Manulife has partnered with New York-based Adaptive ML to incorporate reinforcement learning-based fine-tuning capabilities into its company-wide AI infrastructure.

Adaptive ML’s platform specializes in refining compact, specialized language models (SLMs) via reinforcement learning techniques. This method enables models to iteratively improve through simulated decision-making, balancing rewards and penalties to achieve superior performance in targeted domains.

Manulife plans to apply these tuned models to streamline operations, including automated underwriting assessments and sales support guidance. According to Global Chief AI Officer Jodie Wallis, combining broad large language models with precisely calibrated specialist models promises enhanced precision alongside substantial cost savings.

These updates underscore Canada’s growing role in AI-infused fintech, from democratizing crypto intelligence to empowering advisors and optimizing enterprise processes.

Recent disclosures from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Epstein Files have uncovered significant links between the late convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein and early cryptocurrency ventures. These documents, part of ongoing releases, detail Epstein’s involvement in funding key players in the crypto space during its nascent phase.

Epstein’s Direct Investment in Coinbase

In December 2014, Epstein invested $3 million in Coinbase during its Series C funding round, when the exchange was valued at around $400 million. The deal was arranged through Brock Pierce, co-founder of Tether and Blockchain Capital, a prominent crypto venture firm. Emails show that Epstein used his entity, IGO Company LLC, to make the purchase directly after initial discussions for a fund investment fell through.

This early stake highlighted Epstein’s interest in digital assets, as he received regular investor updates from Blockchain Capital. A 2014 asset list from the DOJ files explicitly records the $3,001,000 Coinbase purchase.

Interactions with Coinbase Leadership

Leaked correspondence reveals that Fred Ehrsam, Coinbase co-founder, was aware of Epstein’s participation. In one email, Ehrsam discussed scheduling a meeting with “Jeff,” expressing flexibility while noting it would be “nice” if convenient. This suggests Ehrsam knew about the investor’s identity and was open to direct engagement.

By 2018, further emails indicate Epstein had secured his allocation. Reports suggest he later sold half of his stake back to Blockchain Capital for approximately $15 million, reflecting substantial returns as Coinbase’s value grew dramatically (leading to its 2021 Nasdaq listing at an $86 billion valuation).

Blockstream Connections and Adam Back’s Response

The documents also link Epstein to Blockstream, a Bitcoin infrastructure company. In 2014, during Blockstream’s $18 million oversubscribed seed round, Epstein’s allocation was increased from $50,000 to $500,000 through a fund managed by Joi Ito, former director of the MIT Media Lab. Emails from co-founder Austin Hill show discussions involving Epstein, Ito, and others like Reid Hoffman.

Adam Back, Blockstream CEO and Bitcoin pioneer, addressed these revelations on X (formerly Twitter). He clarified that Epstein was introduced as a limited partner in Ito’s fund, which briefly held a minority stake in Blockstream. The fund divested its shares months later due to potential conflicts of interest and other concerns. Back emphasized: “Blockstream has no direct nor indirect financial connection with Jeffrey Epstein, or his estate.”

Broader Context and Industry Implications

These revelations spotlight due diligence practices in the early crypto industry, where high-profile investors sometimes entered through intermediaries. While the investments were relatively small in scale, they raise questions about oversight in venture funding.

Note: The presence of names in the Epstein Files does not imply wrongdoing. The documents stem from legal proceedings related to Epstein’s estate and associates.

Los Angeles, California, February 3rd, 2026, Chainwire

Backed by Top Consumer, Crypto and Cultural Investors, BLUFF Quickly Emerges as a Fast-Growing Betting Platform Boasting More Than 125M Bets in Beta

BLUFF, the next-generation betting and entertainment platform, has raised $21 million in strategic investment led by global blockchain technology fund 1kx, with participation from Makers Fund, Maximum Frequency Ventures, Delphi Ventures Founders and other high-profile backers, including sports champion & tech investor, Tristan Thompson. The team includes former senior executives from Stake, Bet365, William Hill and Bodog, drawing on experience operating the world’s leading betting platforms to deliver a truly novel gaming experience. The team will use the funds to advance the innovative betting platform and launch at scale. 

BLUFF is building a social centric betting platform and sportsbook designed for the next generation of players. The platform prioritizes speed, transparency and player alignment, with instant onboarding, real-time settlement, provably fair games and reward systems that allow users to participate directly in the ecosystem they help grow.

When we began building BLUFF, we set out to create a betting platform for the new generation of betters who prioritise fast, high-engagement gameplay, real-time experiences, real stakes and the social energy that defines how players engage online today,

said BLUFF’s Founder. This funding, and the investors who have backed us, validates our mission of what the future of online betting can look like. Novel content, user-experience obsessed, deep community focus, and hyper-engaging for all users. 

The raise follows an exceptional pre-release phase, during which BLUFF has attracted over 600,000 sign-ups, sustained tens of thousands of daily active users and processed over 125,000,000 bets through its beta in 3 months alone. This early traction positions BLUFF as one of the fastest-scaling new betting platforms in the market with strategic partners across crypto, gaming and consumer entertainment.

The speed of execution and level of organic demand we’ve seen from BLUFF is rare,

said Peter Pan, Partner at 1kx. They’re building a category-defining platform with the potential to become the number one destination in betting and entertainment. BLUFF is exactly what the next generation of users is demanding.

Beyond traditional iGaming and sports betting, BLUFF is building a unified experience that blends betting, live prediction markets, binary outcomes, and creator-led community events within a single platform. Bluff also provides a VIP matching program to make the transition from legacy platforms such as Stake, Shuffle and Rollbit to Bluff as seamless as possible, offering market-leading bonuses, rewards and world-class VIP service through a 24/7 VIP concierge. 

We are thrilled to back the BLUFF team,

said Andrew Willson, Partner at Makers Fund. They bring a deep, nuanced understanding of player needs combined with an innovative approach to company building and platform design. By prioritizing players and offering a differentiated experience, we expect BLUFF to become a disruptive brand in the betting space.

To learn more and play now, visit Bluff.com.

####

About BLUFF

BLUFF is built for the new generation of players. A global sports betting and iGaming platform where gaming, real stakes, culture, and community merge into a single, continuous loop to meet today’s users’ demands. It starts as a betting platform and sportsbook and evolves into something much bigger, with novel bet types, loot boxes, and trading that make for a unique betting experience. Backed by global blockchain technology fund 1kx, the founding team includes senior executives and operators from Stake, Bet365, William Hill, Bodog, YOLO and other category-defining platforms, bringing decades of experience at the highest levels of betting and gaming.

About 1kx

1kx is a research-driven, fundamentals-focused global investment firm. Founded in 2018 by tech entrepreneurs Lasse Clausen and Chris Heymann, 1kx invests at key inflection points for blockchain technologies to create breakthrough opportunities across industries. The firm’s mission is to develop the domain expertise and thought leadership required to accelerate the most consequential markets emerging at the intersection of blockchain and the broader economy. As one of the top-performing and most institutionalized funds in the blockchain space, 1kx partners with a diverse global investor base, including sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, endowments, foundations, fund of funds, corporations, and family offices. Renowned for its hands-on approach, technical rigor, and unwavering long-term commitment to founders, 1kx has empowered over 150 visionary startups to scale transformative projects while delivering enduring returns for its investors.

To learn more, visit https://1kx.capital/ or @1kxnetwork on X.

Contact

BLUFF
press@bluff.com

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, February 3rd, 2026, FinanceWire

STARTRADER announced the launch of a basketball court renovation project at Ban Nam Lad School in Thailand as part of its “Where Tomorrow STARS Begin” corporate social responsibility initiative.

The project involved the construction of an 18×12 meter multi-purpose basketball court. In addition, STARTRADER is providing sports equipment to students, with the aim of supporting physical activity and encouraging teamwork within the school.

Details of the Project

The basketball court, scheduled to be unveiled on February 16th, will be used by almost 100 students, with ages ranging from 4 to 12. However, as the broker aims to benefit the community at large, the wider local community in the surrounding villages of Ban Wong Bo and Ban Nam Lat will have access to the court as well. Whereas on January 30, the groundbreaking ceremony took place, marking the start of construction on the following day.

The campaign took place at a strategic time, as the broker had earlier in the year announced partnerships with several leading sports brands. The name chosen for the campaign highlights the values the company has emphasized through its partnerships: high-level performance, precision in execution, and discipline.

This campaign stands as a translation of these values into meaningful action, as stated by the CEO of STARTRADER, Peter Karsten:

STARTRADER’s goal is to make a difference, and this time through sports. Giving the youth in Thailand the chance to improve their skills and build their confidence, discipline, and teamwork.

The principal of the school, Wirot Sukreedist, also highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating: “On behalf of the faculty, students, and staff of Ban Nam Lad School, we would like to express our profound gratitude to STARTRADER for their generous support in the construction and donation of our new futsal and basketball courts.

These facilities are more than just a sports ground; they are a precious gift that provides our students with the opportunity to hone their athletic skills, improve their physical well-being, and learn valuable life lessons outside the classroom. We are committed to maintaining and utilizing these courts to their fullest potential for the benefit of our students’ future development.”

About STARTRADER

STARTRADER is a global broker that provides its clients with opportunities to trade financial instruments online. STARTRADER services both Partners and Retail Clients, who can trade using the MetaTrader Platform, the STAR-APP, and using STAR-COPY. As a global broker, STARTRADER holds a client-first approach as our core principle.

Regulated in 5 jurisdictions (ASIC, FSA, FSC, FSCA, and CMA), STARTRADER upholds strong governance alongside sustainable growth. STARTRADER’s team comprises dedicated professionals working collaboratively to deliver quality service to its Partners and Clients.

Contact

Global PR Manager
Janna Magabilen
STARTRADER
janna.magabilen@startrader.com

In this Article

World Liberty Financial Overview

Key Deal Details and Timeline

Fund Distribution Breakdown

Official Statements and Denials

Broader Context and Implications

Sheikh Tahnoon’s Background

Takeaways

A powerful Abu Dhabi royal, Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reportedly secured a 49% ownership in the Trump-associated crypto platform World Liberty Financial through a $500 million transaction.

The agreement was finalized shortly before President Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration, with initial funds partially allocated to family-linked entities.

Company representatives emphasize no direct role by President Trump or key appointee Steve Witkoff post-inauguration, defending the deal as standard private business practice.

According to an exclusive Wall Street Journal investigation citing internal records and informed sources, representatives acting for Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan finalized an agreement with Eric Trump to acquire nearly half of World Liberty Financial, a cryptocurrency initiative tied to the Trump family.

The $500 million purchase granted the UAE-linked group a 49% equity position in the venture. The signing occurred just days prior to Donald Trump’s return to the presidency in January 2025.

An upfront payment of $250 million was made, with reports indicating $187 million routed to entities controlled by Trump family members. Additional portions—around $31 million each—were directed toward organizations connected to Steve Witkoff’s family (a co-founder and current U.S. special envoy for the Middle East) and to affiliates of other co-founders Zak Folkman and Chase Herro.

The balance of $250 million was scheduled for payment by mid-July 2025, though specifics on its final allocation remain unclear.

In response to inquiries, World Liberty Financial spokesperson David Wachsman stated firmly that President Trump and Steve Witkoff maintained zero involvement in this specific arrangement or any company operations following their assumption of official government roles.

He described suggestions of special scrutiny on this private U.S. firm as unreasonable and contrary to American business norms, stressing the transaction served the company’s strategic goals.

A White House representative noted that the president’s holdings are placed in a trust overseen by his children. Sources close to the investment indicated the sheikh and select partners evaluated the opportunity over several months before proceeding.

Sheikh Tahnoon’s Profile

Sheikh Tahnoon serves as the UAE’s national security adviser, holds a deputy ruler position in Abu Dhabi, and oversees the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, a sovereign fund exceeding $1 trillion in assets. Known in some circles as the “Spy Sheikh” for his intelligence oversight, he wields significant influence across global finance, technology, and security sectors.

The investment has sparked discussions about potential overlaps between international diplomacy and private enterprise, particularly given subsequent U.S. decisions allowing UAE access to advanced AI semiconductors. However, company officials categorically reject any linkage between the equity purchase and policy outcomes.

World Liberty Financial, which promotes decentralized finance solutions and has introduced governance tokens like WLFI, continues operations under leadership from Trump and Witkoff family members in advisory capacities.

This development highlights the intersection of cryptocurrency innovation, high-level geopolitics, and family business interests in the evolving digital asset landscape.

Bitcoin (BTC) slumped to a low of $74,502 on Coinbase early on Monday as the crypto market selloff continued unabated. The downtrend has seen BTC lose nearly $800 billion since hitting its all-time high of $126,000 in October 2025. It also knocked the flagship cryptocurrency out of the global top ten assets, as crypto liquidations hit $2.6 billion. 

The US Dollar recovery after Kevin Warsh was nominated as the next Federal Reserve Chair, escalating tensions between the US and Iran, and unprecedented liquidations have sparked panic across crypto, gold, silver, and US Stock futures. The cryptocurrency market cap has plunged to $2.57 trillion, down nearly 3% over the past 24 hours. 

Crypto Selloff Due To Low Liquidity: Analyst 

Raoul Pal, founder and CEO of Global Macro Investor, believes the market capitulation over the weekend, which saw $250 billion wiped out, is due to a shortage of liquidity, rather than a crypto-specific issue. Pal stated, 

The big narrative is that BTC and crypto are broken. The cycle is over.

However, Pal explained that this is not the case, highlighting a similar decline in Software as a Service (SaaS) stocks. Bitcoin and SaaS stocks have fallen significantly in recent sessions. The decline is noteworthy as both assets are considered long-duration assets, with their value based on expected future cash flows and adoption. This makes them highly sensitive to changes in liquidity and interest rates. 

The rally in gold essentially sucked all marginal liquidity out of the system that would have flowed into BTC and SaaS. There was not enough liquidity to support all these assets, so the riskiest got hit.

The situation has been exacerbated by the government shutdowns and “issues with US plumbing.”

Investors Pull $2.8B In Two Weeks 

Bitcoin (BTC) is currently trading below the average cost basis of US spot Bitcoin ETFs after they recorded their second and third-largest outflow weeks in January. According to CoinGlass data, spot Bitcoin ETFs have $113 billion in assets under management, and hold around 1.28 million BTC at an average cost basis of around $87,830 per Bitcoin. BTC plunged below $75,000 early on Monday, indicating that the average Bitcoin ETF purchase is now underwater. Galaxy’s head of research, Alex Thorn, stated, 

This means the average Bitcoin ETF purchase is underwater.

Spot Bitcoin ETFs saw over $2.8 billion in outflows over the past fortnight, according to CoinGlass data. Meanwhile, Nick Ruck warned that waning demand could push Bitcoin into a bear market. Ruck stated, 

The crypto market continues its sell-off as Bitcoin falls to around $76,000 amid heightened macro uncertainty, while the proposed US CLARITY Act stalls. Despite Trump’s crypto-friendly pick for the next Fed chair, investors are de-risking due to continuous geopolitical conflicts and dollar instability as the US economy struggles between rising unemployment and inflation. BTC may enter into a bear market if it continues to drop further, as technical indicators showcase long-term sell pressure patterns forming if demand doesn’t recover soon.

Strategy Stares At Unrealized Losses 

Michael Saylor’s Strategy is staring at a $900 million unrealized loss. The company’s Bitcoin stash turned red after the asset fell below $75,000, slightly lower than its average holding cost of $76,037 per Bitcoin. 

As Bitcoin fell below $75,000, Michael Saylor’s Strategy’s 712,647 BTC is facing an unrealized loss of over $900 million.

Strategy recently announced its latest Bitcoin acquisition, purchasing 2,932 BTC for $264 million for the week ending January 25. A fresh decline could put substantial pressure on Strategy’s stock and Bitcoin holdings. 

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Analysis 

Bitcoin (BTC) slumped to its lowest level in April 2025 early on Monday, falling to a low of $74,502 before rising to its current level of $77,536. The decline has been attributed to trade tensions, macroeconomic uncertainty, persistent selling pressure, and thin liquidity. Analysts stated that long-term holders are also locking in their profits after last year’s rally, and expect BTC to trade sideways rather than embarking on an immediate recovery.

The weekend selloff wiped out around $111 billion from the total crypto market capitalization, while around $1.7 billion in leveraged long and short positions were liquidated. The downturn comes amid declining liquidity and waning investor interest, suggesting that the market is struggling to attract new capital. Ki Young Ju, CEO of CryptoQuanty, stated that Bitcoin’s realized capitalization has flatlined. 

Bitcoin is dropping as selling pressure persists, with no fresh capital coming in. Realized Cap has flatlined, meaning no fresh capital. When market cap falls in that environment, it’s not a bull market.

Ju added that early Bitcoin holders have been sitting on significant unrealized profits after the Strategy and Bitcoin ETF-driven rally. However, profit-taking has continued, and is currently coinciding with a steep drop in demand, amplifying the ongoing downtrend. 

Early holders are sitting on big unrealized gains thanks to ETFs and MSTR buying. They’ve been taking profits since early last year, but strong inflows kept Bitcoin near 100K. Now those inflows have dried up.

Strategy, one of the biggest drivers of the recent rally, has seen the value of its holdings dip into the red after Bitcoin’s drop to $75,000. However, the decline does not create any immediate financial concern for the Bitcoin treasury company. Wu added that a substantial decline in Bitcoin prices is unlikely unless Strategy starts selling its stash. 

MSTR was a major driver of this rally. Unless Saylor significantly dumps his stack, we won’t see a -70% crash like previous cycles. Selling pressure is still ongoing, so the bottom isn’t clear yet, but this bear market will likely form a wide-ranging sideways consolidation.

Bitcoin (BTC) ended the previous weekend in the red, dropping nearly 3% on Sunday to $86,561. The price recovered on Monday, rising almost 2% to cross $88,000 and settle at $88,250. Buyers retained control on Tuesday as the flagship cryptocurrency rose 0.98% to $89,116. BTC briefly crossed the $90,000 mark on Wednesday and reached an intraday high of $90,476 before settling at 89,162.

Source: TradingView

Selling pressure returned on Thursday as BTC plunged over 5% to $84,513. Buyers retained control on Friday as the price fell to $81,000 before settling at $84,110. Selling pressure intensified on Saturday as BTC plunged below the key $80,000 mark, falling to a low of $75,644 before settling at $78,648. Price action remained bearish on Sunday as BTC fell 2.24% to $76,895. The current week started with BTC falling to $74,502, its lowest level since April 2025. However, it has clawed back to reclaim $77,000 and is trading around $77,670.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

International asset managers are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence to refine their investment approaches in the Chinese market, moving beyond traditional reliance on local experts to more data-driven, efficient strategies.

Global financial institutions are transforming how they analyze and engage with China’s economy by incorporating advanced AI technologies into their decision-making frameworks. This evolution reflects broader industry shifts toward automation and the rising strategic value of the Chinese marketplace.

Historically, overseas investors depended heavily on seasoned specialists with deep knowledge of local regulations and trends. Today, major players are building AI capabilities to process vast datasets, forecast trends, and adapt swiftly to shifts.

Hedge fund leader Bridgewater Associates exemplifies this trend. The firm recently advertised a role for a Chinese Policy AI Research Associate in New York, seeking Mandarin proficiency, insight into China’s governance and AI landscape, plus expertise in large language models. The position commands a competitive salary of $160,000–$225,000 annually.

Co-CIO Greg Jensen has emphasized evolving workforce priorities toward data science talent. Bridgewater established its Artificial Investment Associate Lab in 2023 to pivot toward machine-learning-driven processes and introduced an ML-focused fund in 2024. These moves aim to improve forecasting accuracy and returns, including applications tailored to China.

BlackRock employs its Systematic Active Equity framework, blending alternative data sources with AI. According to Chief Investment Officer Wang Xiaojing, the system analyzes news, social platforms, and reports to assess sentiment and detect early fundamental shifts. It then dynamically weighs signals for faster market responses.

While BlackRock operates a comprehensive ML-powered global model, its rollout for China-specific tactics is still nascent, as noted in discussions with financial media.

Industry observers anticipate AI will automate routine data handling, elevate research productivity, and foster seamless human-AI teamwork. Firms like Guangzhou’s Xuanyuan Investment foresee this collaboration as standard practice.

This transition underscores foreign institutions’ heightened focus on AI-enhanced research for China, driven by both technological momentum and the market’s expanding significance.

Optimism prevails for 2026 Chinese assets. Multiple leading managers highlight enduring strengths in the technology domain, particularly AI, aerospace, low-altitude economy, and innovative consumer areas.

Fidelity’s Zhang Xiaomu anticipates outperformance in growth-oriented stocks through much of the year, with robust gains in those high-potential sectors.

Broader forecasts reinforce this positivity, with AI-related capital spending projected to fuel economic momentum and support equity performance in China.

(Images from the original article, such as the humanoid robot at the Macao expo and robotic demonstrations in Barcelona, illustrate the innovative tech landscape driving these investment shifts.)

This strategic pivot positions global firms to capitalize more effectively on China’s evolving opportunities in a tech-driven era.

Friday’s Market Performance

NVDA shares finished the prior session lower by 0.7%, settling at $191.13 amid broader Wall Street declines. The drop followed elevated U.S. producer price data and uncertainty surrounding President Trump’s pick of Kevin Warsh to lead the Federal Reserve, replacing Jerome Powell. Analysts note markets are adjusting to evolving monetary policy signals and leadership changes.

Huang’s Bold OpenAI Statement

During a visit to Taipei, Taiwan, on Saturday (local time), Huang addressed recent speculation head-on. He described Nvidia’s planned contribution to OpenAI’s ongoing funding round as potentially “the largest investment we’ve ever made,” while dismissing reports of dissatisfaction as “nonsense.” Huang emphasized strong belief in OpenAI’s mission and confirmed active participation, though he clarified the amount would fall well short of the previously discussed $100 billion figure from September announcements.

This comes after a Wall Street Journal report indicated the original megadeal faced hurdles, prompting Nvidia to reevaluate terms amid competitive pressures from players like Alphabet and Anthropic. An Nvidia representative reaffirmed the company’s decade-long role as OpenAI’s go-to partner for advanced GPUs essential to training large language models.

Investor Implications and AI Demand Signals

Huang’s remarks spotlight accelerating AI infrastructure buildouts by leading hyperscalers and AI firms. Nvidia’s GPUs remain central to these expansions, making any shifts in major customer commitments—such as OpenAI’s fundraising progress—critical for forecasting chip order volumes and data center timelines.

Traders are weighing whether this represents routine single-client news or hints at broader challenges for OpenAI’s capital-raising efforts, which could influence near-term demand for Nvidia hardware.

Institutional Ownership Update

A recent SEC filing disclosed that The Vanguard Group held approximately 2.27 billion NVDA shares as of December 31, equating to 9.32% ownership. The filing mentioned an internal restructuring, with some Vanguard entities expected to report holdings individually moving forward.

Analyst Optimism Amid Cautions

Wolfe Research recently boosted its price objective to $275 from $250, citing robust appetite for Nvidia’s integrated “rack-scale” solutions and climbing average selling prices in high-performance computing segments. Such upgrades reflect confidence in sustained AI-driven revenue growth.

However, downside scenarios persist: Any slowdown, downsizing, or added scrutiny in OpenAI’s round might prompt customers to defer purchases, triggering volatility in NVDA shares—especially with earnings on the horizon.

Upcoming Catalysts

Nvidia’s fiscal quarter results are scheduled for release on February 25, accompanied by a conference call at 5 p.m. ET. Pre-earnings commentary from the CFO earlier that day could provide fresh insights into order trends, guidance adjustments, and whether OpenAI-related momentum features prominently.

Investors continue monitoring these developments closely, as Nvidia’s trajectory remains tightly linked to the explosive expansion of generative AI technologies and data center investments worldwide. Stay tuned for Monday’s opening bell and potential pre-market reactions.

A recent landmark announcement underscores AstraZeneca’s strong belief in China’s pharmaceutical landscape. The British-Swedish drugmaker revealed plans to channel $15 billion into the country by 2030, focusing on scaling up research, development, and production of cutting-edge therapies.

Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized during a Beijing interview that China now plays an essential role in worldwide scientific progress, high-tech production, and shared global well-being. He described the commitment as opening a fresh phase for the company’s operations in the nation, aligning with Beijing’s push for premium economic growth.

This substantial funding builds on prior efforts, including a $475 million upgrade to the Wuxi site in 2024 and a $2.5 billion Beijing initiative signed in 2025. It will enhance current production bases in Beijing, Wuxi, Taizhou, and Qingdao while introducing dedicated facilities for advanced cell-based treatments and radioconjugates—a promising approach in oncology.

The expansion is expected to increase AstraZeneca’s Chinese team beyond 20,000 skilled professionals, generating thousands more positions throughout the broader medical sector.

As the company’s second-biggest revenue source, China serves as a key global hub, distributing products to over 70 international markets. Since establishing presence in 1993, AstraZeneca has launched more than 40 novel drugs here, targeting fields like cancer care, lung conditions, uncommon disorders, immunotherapies, and preventive shots.

Soriot noted that recent policy improvements, robust backing for cross-border partnerships, and rapid scientific strides have reinforced the firm’s dedication. He views funding local patients as a dual benefit: spurring domestic breakthroughs while enabling worldwide supply of advanced treatments.

Participating in British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s delegation to Beijing, Soriot expressed strong positivity toward future Sino-UK ties. He pointed to vast opportunities beyond healthcare—in areas such as AI-driven discovery and sustainable technologies—while embracing both teamwork and healthy rivalry to advance patient outcomes globally.

This move highlights China’s rising stature as a powerhouse in life sciences, attracting major international players eager to tap its talent, infrastructure, and market potential.

Bitcoin (BTC) slumped below $80,000 late on Saturday, falling to a low of $75,644 on Coinbase as low weekend liquidity amplified selling pressure. Markets remain on edge amid rising geopolitical tensions and political uncertainty. The decline suggests that risk appetite remains weak as investors reduce exposure to assets like cryptocurrencies. 

Bitcoin fell 6.50% on Saturday as the market sell-off intensified. However, it managed to claw back and reclaim the $78,000 mark, moving to its current level of $78,648. The sell-off has seen nearly $1.8 billion in liquidations, with $300 billion wiped out from the cryptocurrency market capitalization. 

Bitcoin (BTC) Drops Out Of Top Global Assets 

Bitcoin’s (BTC) drop this week has cost it its place among the world’s top ten assets by market capitalization. The removal highlights the recent difficulties the asset faces as the cryptocurrency market continues to grapple with the effects of the industry’s largest forced liquidation on record. The flagship cryptocurrency’s market capitalization has slipped to $1.65 trillion, pushing it to 11th globally, just behind Saudi Aramco and below Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC). 

Bitcoin (BTC) Rout Intensifies Amid Thin Weekend Liquidity 

The global sell-off in the equity market intensified over the weekend, spilling over into the crypto ecosystem as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and other tokens traded in the red. BTC plunged below $80,000 on Saturday, dropping to a low of $75,644 on Coinbase as selling pressure was amplified by thin weekend liquidity. The sell-off can be attributed to rising geopolitical tensions, political uncertainty, and trade concerns. This has been amplified by President Trump’s pick for the next Fed Chair, Kevin Warsh. Known for his hawkish stance, Warsh’s nomination triggered a $7 trillion sell-off in metals, which dampened risk appetite across sectors, including crypto. WazirX founder Nischal Shetty stated, 

The decline coincides with a renewed escalation in geopolitical tensions, particularly the situation between the US and Iran. This has unsettled global markets and triggered a broad risk-off response. In this environment, crypto assets have moved in line with other risk-sensitive instruments, reflecting a shift towards liquidity and traditional safe-haven assets.

Geopolitical Tensions Put Markets On Edge 

Bitcoin fell to $75,000 as geopolitical tensions surged after reports of an explosion at the Bandar Abbas Port. The port is a key shipping hub on the Strait of Hormuz, handling a fifth of global seaborne oil. President Trump’s post about the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Truth Social further intensified tensions. Russell Thompson, Chief Investment Officer at Hilbert Group, stated, 

This looks like a broad-based sell-off. We have an event risk over the weekend with an aircraft carrier battle fleet sitting off the coast of Iran. Trump is sabre-rattling, which isn’t helping. This isn’t BTC specific, but BTC is obviously a high delta product, so the move has been much higher and more volatile in BTC.

US political uncertainty has also dampened investor sentiment after a brief federal shutdown began over the weekend as Congress failed to pass a funding bill before the midnight deadline. However, the shutdown is expected to be short-lived, but it adds to concerns that keep traders on edge. 

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Analysis 

Bitcoin (BTC) has struggled to attract investor interest after a highly volatile start to 2026. ETF inflows turned negative last week as investors pulled over $1.5 billion, while derivatives markets are struggling to unwind leverage positions from last year. As a result, price action remains choppy, with frequent sell-offs. The growing debate around the quantum threat to Bitcoin has also impacted investor sentiment. 

BTC ended the previous weekend in the red, dropping 1.55% to $93,633. Sellers retained control on Monday as the price fell 1.15% to $92,559. Selling pressure intensified on Tuesday as BTC fell nearly 5%, slipping below $90,000 to $88,310. Despite the overwhelming bearish sentiment, the price recovered on Wednesday, rising 1.19% to $89,363. BTC registered a marginal increase on Thursday, moving to $89,463. BTC experienced considerable volatility on Friday as buyers and sellers struggled to establish control. Buyers ultimately gained the upper hand as the price registered a marginal increase to $89,474.

Source: TradingView

Selling pressure returned over the weekend, and BTC fell 0.44% to $89,092. Selling pressure intensified on Sunday as the price fell nearly 3% to $86,561. Despite the overwhelming selling pressure, BTC recovered on Monday, rising almost 2% to $88,250. Buyers retained control on Tuesday with the price crossing $89,000 to $89,250, up nearly 1%. BTC experienced volatility on Wednesday, briefly crossing $90,000 before settling at $89,162. Markets crashed on Thursday, and BTC fell over 5% to a low of $83,216 before settling at $84,513. Selling pressure persisted on Friday as the price plunged below key support levels to $81,000 before moving to $84,110. Selling pressure intensified again on Saturday as BTC plunged to a low of $75,644 before settling at $78,648. The price is marginally down during the ongoing session, trading around $78,648.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

Bitcoin (BTC) stemmed its decline and reclaimed the $83,000 mark after coming dangerously close to slipping below $80,000. The flagship cryptocurrency fell to a low of $81,000 on Friday before settling at $84,000. However, price action remained bearish on Saturday, with BTC trading around $82,850. 

Meanwhile, gold and silver plummeted on Friday after a record-breaking rally, with gold dropping by more than 10% and silver falling by over 30%. 

Investors Pull Nearly $2B From Bitcoin And Ethereum ETFs 

Investors pulled nearly $2 billion from spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs over the past five trading days as market sentiment remained weak. Spot Bitcoin ETFs shed around $1.49 billion between Monday and Friday, while Ethereum ETFs saw net outflows of around $327 million. The outflows come amid a substantial decline in the price of both assets, with BTC crashing to a low of $81,000 on Friday while ETH slipped below $2,700. 

However, Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas called the recent negativity around BTC’s price action compared to gold and silver “short-sighted,” stating, 

Bitcoin spanked everything so bad in ’23 and ’24. Those other assets still haven’t caught up, even after having their greatest year ever, and BTC is in a coma. So it had to take a breather so the actual narrative could catch up to the price.

Gold surged to a new record of $5,608, while silver rallied to $121. However, the previous metal rally finally broke on Friday as gold fell 8%, while silver plunged around 27%. 

Bitcoin (BTC) Out Of World’s Top Ten Assets 

Bitcoin’s drop this week has cost it its place among the world’s top ten assets by market capitalization. The removal highlights the recent difficulties the asset faces as the cryptocurrency market continues to grapple with the effects of the industry’s largest forced liquidation on record. The flagship cryptocurrency’s market capitalization has slipped to $1.65 trillion, pushing it to 11th globally, just behind Saudi Aramco and below Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC). 

On the other hand, gold has surged to the top of the global markets thanks to its record rally. Gold’s rally was accompanied by staggering gains in gold futures, as highlighted by data from cryptocurrency exchange MEXC. Bitcoin’s market capitalization peaked at around $2.5 trillion in October as it surged to a record price level of $126,000. The flagship cryptocurrency’s latest selloff was due to $1.6 billion in long liquidations as it fell from $90,000 to a low of $81,000 on Coinbase. 

Kevin Warsh Nominates Kevin Warsh As Next Federal Reserve Chair 

US President Donald Trump has nominated Kevin Warsh as the next chair of the Federal Reserve. According to reports, Trump met Warsh early on Friday, with sources stating the president was very impressed by Warsh. The odds of Warsh being nominated as the next Fed Chair surged to 95% on Polymarket, while Rick Rieder, the former frontrunner, tanked to just 3.4%. Analysts expect Warsh to push for fiscal restraint, lower inflation, and exiting quantitative easing. 

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Analysis 

Bitcoin (BTC) plunged to a low of $81,000 on Friday as markets turned red, with even gold and silver unable to escape selling pressure. The flagship cryptocurrency steadied itself after crashing to a nine-month low and reclaimed the $83,000 mark. The 10% correction, spread over Wednesday and Thursday, saw BTC come dangerously close to slipping below the $80,000 mark. The correction was the result of overly cautious traders after significant ETF outflows, rising geopolitical tensions, and market uncertainty.

Besides geopolitical and market factors, the threat from quantum computers has added to investor anxiety. Coinbase recently announced an independent advisory board to evaluate the risks associated with quantum computing, with plans to publish its study by 2027. The discussion of the quantum threat intensified after Jeffries removed Bitcoin from its flagship portfolio, citing long-term security concerns. 

Spot Bitcoin ETFs also registered heavy outflows over the past week. The ETFs started the week with an inflow of $6.80 million. However, Tuesday saw outflows of $146 million, followed by $19.60 million on Wednesday. Weekly outflows peaked on Thursday as investors pulled $817 million, while Friday saw an outflow of $509 million. 

BTC ended the previous weekend in the red, dropping 1.55% to $93,633. Sellers retained control on Monday as the price fell 1.15% to $92,559. Selling pressure intensified on Tuesday as BTC fell nearly 5%, slipping below $90,000 to $88,310. Despite the overwhelming bearish sentiment, the price recovered on Wednesday, rising 1.19% to $89,363. BTC registered a marginal increase on Thursday, moving to $89,463. BTC experienced considerable volatility on Friday as buyers and sellers struggled to establish control. Buyers ultimately gained the upper hand as the price registered a marginal increase to $89,474.

Source: TradingView

Selling pressure returned over the weekend, and BTC fell 0.44% to $89,092. Selling pressure intensified on Sunday as the price fell nearly 3% to $86,561. Despite the overwhelming selling pressure, BTC recovered on Monday, rising almost 2% to $88,250. Buyers retained control on Tuesday with the price crossing $89,000 to $89,250, up nearly 1%. BTC experienced volatility on Wednesday, briefly crossing $90,000 before settling at $89,162. Markets crashed on Thursday, and BTC fell over 5% to a low of $83,216 before settling at $84,513. Selling pressure persisted on Friday as the price plunged below key support levels to $81,000 before moving to $84,110. BTC is down nearly 2% during the ongoing session, trading around $82,717.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

This guide explains the 70/30 rule applied to ETFs in clear, practical terms. It covers why investors use the split, how to set one up step by step, and the tradeoffs compared with more conservative mixes.

Use this article as a starting framework. It highlights key decision points like account choice, ETF selection, rebalancing, and tax planning so you can make informed next steps without jargon.

The 70/30 rule places roughly 70 percent in equity ETFs and 30 percent in bond ETFs as a growth tilt with some defensive exposure.

ETFs are practical building blocks for a 70/30 plan because of intraday liquidity and transparent holdings.

Rebalancing choice and tax placement materially affect realized outcomes when implementing a 70/30 ETF portfolio.

What the 70/30 rule means for an ETF portfolio

The 70/30 rule for ETFs means putting about 70 percent of your portfolio into equity ETFs and about 30 percent into fixed income ETFs to pursue growth with some downside dampening, and it is a commonly used rule of thumb for asset allocation that depends on your time horizon and risk tolerance, how to start an etf is one question new investors often ask early on.

ETFs serve as straightforward building blocks for this rule because they typically offer intraday liquidity and transparent holdings, which makes it easier to see and trade the pieces of a 70/30 plan; for context on ETF structure and investor guidance see the SEC investor bulletin SEC investor bulletin: Exchange-Traded Funds.

Choosing a 70/30 split is a decision about tradeoffs: more equity exposure usually raises expected long term return and short term volatility relative to a 60/40 split, so the rule is often chosen by investors with longer horizons or higher risk tolerance, as discussed in asset allocation research CFA Institute analysis on asset allocation.

ETFs are popular for rule-based allocations because many providers offer low expense ratios compared with some mutual funds and because ETF holdings are generally visible, which helps with transparency when you apply a fixed split like 70/30; see ETF education resources for portfolio construction iShares ETF basics and portfolio construction. BlackRock’s insights also discuss broader allocation and diversification themes BlackRock insights.

The 70/30 split is not a one size fits all prescription. Time horizon, liquidity needs, and personal risk tolerance should guide whether this tilt makes sense for you, and readers should treat the split as a starting point to adjust for individual circumstances, as Vanguard explains in asset allocation guidance Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Definition in plain language

In plain language, a 70/30 ETF portfolio holds roughly seven parts stocks and three parts bonds, using ETFs for each sleeve. Equity ETFs provide broad market exposure and the potential for growth, while bond ETFs supply income and a buffer during declines. This approach is simple to understand and implement using ETF building blocks; for overview guidance on asset allocation see Vanguard’s resources Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Why investors choose a 70/30 split

Investors often choose 70/30 to gain more long term growth potential than a 60/40 allocation, while still keeping some fixed income to reduce short term swings. The tradeoff raises expected volatility but can yield higher compound returns over multi year horizons according to asset allocation research CFA Institute analysis on asset allocation.

How to start an ETF portfolio using the 70/30 rule

A step by step checklist, how to start an etf

Start with clear goals and a time horizon. Write down why you are investing and when you will likely need the money. This helps you decide whether a 70/30 split suits your situation, and it sets the basis for later decisions on fees and tax placement; see Vanguard for how goals affect allocation choices Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Choose the account type that matches your goals: taxable brokerage accounts are flexible, while tax advantaged accounts can shelter gains and income. Account choice affects where to place bond exposure and how to manage taxable events. For guidance on account effects on allocation, consult Vanguard resources Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Pick core equity and bond ETF building blocks. Favor broadly diversified, low cost equity ETFs and core bond ETFs as the foundation of a 70/30 portfolio. Check each ETF’s expense ratio, tracking method, and liquidity before buying because product breadth has grown and not every ETF trades the same, as industry trend data shows ETFGI global ETF trends. For additional background and related content see our investing resources.

Execute the initial purchases to reach about 70 percent equities and 30 percent bonds. You can invest lump sums or use dollar cost averaging, depending on your comfort with market timing. When you trade, be mindful of bid ask spread on less liquid ETFs to avoid unnecessary costs; ETF provider education discusses trading mechanics and liquidity iShares ETF basics and portfolio construction. For an example implementation from a provider, see the Invesco 70/30 portfolio fact sheet Invesco 70/30 portfolio fact sheet.

Set a rebalancing rule now. Choose calendar rebalancing or threshold rebalancing to keep the 70/30 split on target. Rebalancing frequency and method materially affect realized risk and return over time, so pick an approach that fits your taxes and trading costs Morningstar rebalancing guide. Also consider our advanced ETF trading strategies for more implementation details.

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Monitor the portfolio periodically for large deviations from target, significant changes in ETF liquidity, or fee updates. Keep a short watchlist of alternate ETFs in case a chosen fund becomes illiquid or expensive. Industry reports note growth in ETF product variety but also caution on niche liquidity, so reviewing spreads is important before trading ETFGI global ETF trends.

Account types and where to hold ETFs

For tax efficient investing, put tax sensitive assets and strategies where they make the most sense: taxable accounts often hold tax efficient equity ETFs and tax advantaged accounts can hold bond exposure or actively managed funds that distribute more. This general principle is discussed in asset allocation and tax guidance Vanguard asset allocation guide. For further reading on tax placement and portfolio efficiency see tax-efficient investing strategies.

Retirement accounts are convenient places for fixed income that would otherwise create regular taxable distributions in a taxable account. Conversely, investors may place highly tax efficient equity ETFs in taxable accounts while using tax advantaged accounts for less tax efficient holdings. For details on tax interactions, see rebalancing and tax guidance Morningstar rebalancing guide.

Picking equity ETFs for the 70 percent sleeve

Core equity exposures to consider

Use broad total market or large cap core equity ETFs as the backbone of the 70 percent sleeve to keep costs low and diversification high. A total market approach can simplify implementation and limit concentration in a few names, and ETF provider education highlights broad-market building blocks for portfolios iShares ETF basics and portfolio construction.

Consider a mix that includes developed international exposure plus a smaller allocation to emerging markets if you want wider diversification. International allocations can lower home country concentration but may change volatility and correlation characteristics, so weigh the tradeoffs with your time horizon and risk tolerance; see global ETF breadth notes ETFGI global ETF trends.

Diversification, market cap and international balance

Within the equity sleeve, you can split exposure across total market or large cap core, mid and small caps, and international funds to tune risk and return. Each choice affects tracking error and potential tax treatment, so review fund documents and fee information before allocating, as ETF education resources recommend iShares ETF basics and portfolio construction.

Fees and liquidity matter. Lower expense ratios reduce drag on returns, and higher liquidity generally means tighter bid ask spreads when you trade. Given the expanding ETF landscape, checking each fund’s typical spread and daily volume helps avoid paying extra trading costs for niche products ETFGI global ETF trends. For a technical discussion of ETF liquidity mechanics see research on liquidity structure liquidity structure of ETFs.

Remember that moving to a 70 percent equity weight increases expected volatility compared with more conservative mixes. If your horizon is shorter, consider moderating equity exposure or choosing lower volatility equity allocations to match your comfort with drawdowns, as asset allocation research discusses CFA Institute analysis on asset allocation.

Picking bond ETFs for the 30 percent sleeve

Duration and credit quality choices

Bond ETFs vary by duration and credit quality. Short duration funds tend to have lower interest rate sensitivity and less price volatility, while intermediate or longer duration funds usually provide higher income but greater sensitivity to rate moves; see Vanguard for how duration affects risk and return Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Credit quality is another decision. Treasury or government focused ETFs offer higher credit safety while corporate bond ETFs add yield at the cost of more credit risk. Match carbon allocation to your risk tolerance and need for income, and consider municipal bond ETFs for taxable accounts if you need tax exempt income; asset allocation guidance discusses account placement for tax reasons Vanguard asset allocation guide.

How should an everyday investor set up a 70/30 ETF allocation?

Start by documenting goals and time horizon, choose accounts based on tax considerations, pick diversified low cost equity and bond ETFs to reach roughly 70 percent equities and 30 percent bonds, set a rebalancing rule, and monitor fees, liquidity, and tax consequences.

ETF variety has increased, including niche bond ETFs, but with that growth comes a need to check liquidity and bid ask spreads before buying, as industry research notes the expanded product breadth and the importance of liquidity checks ETFGI global ETF trends.

For many investors a core aggregate bond ETF or a blend of short and intermediate funds provides straightforward diversification within the 30 percent sleeve. Aggregate funds give broad exposure to domestic investment grade bonds and can be a simple starting point when you set up a 70/30 allocation iShares ETF basics and portfolio construction.

How to set rebalancing rules for a 70/30 ETF portfolio

Calendar versus threshold rebalancing

Two common rebalancing approaches are calendar rebalancing, which resets the portfolio on a fixed schedule, and threshold rebalancing, which trades only when allocations drift beyond a set tolerance band. Morningstar documents these methods and their practical considerations for investors Morningstar rebalancing guide.

Calendar rebalancing is simple. Many investors pick annual or semiannual schedules to limit trading costs and avoid frequent taxable events in taxable accounts. The choice of interval affects realized risk and return, so match frequency to your tolerance for drift and your tax situation Morningstar rebalancing guide.

For ongoing rebalancing you can use a simple worksheet or printable rebalancing tool to record target percentages, current values, and trade amounts to bring allocations back to target, Finance Police Advertisement

Threshold rebalancing trades only when the equity or bond share crosses a tolerance band, for example plus or minus 5 percentage points from the 70/30 target. This can reduce unnecessary trades but may allow larger interim deviations, and evidence shows the choice of threshold affects long term realized outcomes Morningstar rebalancing guide.

When implementing rebalancing with ETFs, track transaction costs and taxable consequences. In taxable accounts every realized gain from rebalancing can trigger taxes, so factor that into your chosen approach and consider rebalancing inside tax advantaged accounts when possible Vanguard asset allocation guide.

How frequency affects risk and return

More frequent rebalancing tends to keep allocation drift low but increases trading activity, which may raise costs and realized taxable events. Less frequent rebalancing reduces trades but allows wider drift and potentially larger deviations from your target risk profile, as Morningstar’s analysis covers Morningstar rebalancing guide.

Practical example: an investor using annual rebalancing will typically make fewer trades than one rebalancing quarterly, and the net impact on long term outcomes depends on relative market moves and trading friction. Choose a rule you can follow consistently and that fits your tax and cost constraints Morningstar rebalancing guide.

Tax and account planning when you start a 70/30 ETF portfolio

Taxable versus tax advantaged accounts

ETFs can be tax efficient, but realized gains from rebalancing in taxable accounts create tax events that require planning. Placing tax sensitive holdings in tax advantaged accounts can reduce annual tax friction and simplify rebalancing decisions, as Vanguard guidance notes Vanguard asset allocation guide.

One common principle is to hold less tax efficient bond allocations in tax advantaged accounts while keeping tax efficient equity ETFs in taxable accounts, but personal tax circumstances vary so this is a general rule of thumb rather than tax advice; see Morningstar for rebalancing tax considerations Morningstar rebalancing guide.

How rebalancing affects taxable events

When you sell ETF shares in a taxable account to rebalance, you may trigger capital gains or losses. Tax loss harvesting can sometimes offset gains, but it requires record keeping and careful timing. Tax aware rebalancing tools and a plan can help limit unexpected tax bills Morningstar rebalancing guide.

Be aware that bond ETFs can create taxable distributions depending on the holdings and account type. Regular monitoring of distributions and an awareness of when rebalancing trades create taxes is part of practical account planning when you implement a 70/30 ETF allocation Vanguard asset allocation guide.

70/30 versus 60/40 and other mixes: tradeoffs to consider

Expected return and volatility differences

A 70/30 split usually increases expected long term returns and short term volatility versus a 60/40 mix. The higher equity weight raises exposure to market gains and to drawdowns, so the decision depends on your time horizon and tolerance for swings; asset allocation research explains these tradeoffs CFA Institute analysis on asset allocation.

For investors needing more income or lower volatility, a higher bond weighting may be preferable. Conversely, younger investors with longer horizons may tolerate higher equity weight to pursue growth while accepting greater interim volatility, as Vanguard and CFA materials note Vanguard asset allocation guide.

When a 70/30 may suit your goals

Consider a 70/30 split if you have a multi decade horizon, steady savings, and the emotional tolerance for market dips. If you expect to need the money soon or you prefer lower volatility, weigh more conservative mixes. Use time horizon, liability timing, and your personal tolerance to guide any tilt from the classic splits CFA Institute analysis on asset allocation.

Always view allocation decisions as a function of goals rather than a single correct answer. The 70/30 rule is a useful starting point, but adjustments are normal and prudent as circumstances change Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Common mistakes and pitfalls when starting a 70/30 ETF portfolio

Overlooking liquidity and niche ETF spreads

One common error is choosing ETFs with low liquidity or wide bid ask spreads, which raises trading costs and can hurt performance when you enter or exit positions. With many new ETF products, checking typical spreads and daily volume is a practical pretrade step, as industry research highlights ETFGI global ETF trends.

Another mistake is undue concentration in one sector or a small number of names. Even within a 70 percent equity sleeve, maintain diversification across market caps and regions to avoid single factor risks, as ETF provider education recommends iShares ETF basics and portfolio construction.

Quick rebalancing amount calculator for a 70/30 split

Current equity value

Current bond value

Target equity percent

Trade amount:
–

Use to estimate buy or sell amount to rebalance

Emotional rebalancing-selling after declines or chasing recent winners-is another practical pitfall. A written rule and a simple rebalancing plan help reduce impulse trades and keep the 70/30 allocation working as intended, as rebalancing guidance suggests Morningstar rebalancing guide.

Tax blind rebalancing can also create avoidable tax bills. Track the tax consequences in taxable accounts and prefer rebalancing inside tax advantaged accounts when possible to limit realized gains, a point explained in asset allocation and tax guidance Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Example starter allocations and next steps

Three simple starter scenarios

Young investor, long horizon: A typical scenario for someone early in their career is to use the full 70 percent equity sleeve with a broad domestic total market core plus a modest slice for international developed markets, and keep the 30 percent in intermediate aggregate bond ETFs for baseline stability. This tilt leans into growth while keeping a cushion of fixed income, matching a longer time horizon and higher risk tolerance; asset allocation resources discuss such positioning CFA Institute analysis on asset allocation.

Mid career, moderate horizon: A mid career investor may keep a 70/30 top level split but overweight large cap and dividend oriented equities for income, add a small allocation to emerging markets for diversification, and use a mix of short and intermediate bond ETFs to temper volatility, consistent with general allocation advice Vanguard asset allocation guide.

Nearing retirement, income focus: For someone approaching retirement who still wants some growth, a 70/30 starting point could be adjusted by increasing credit quality in the bond sleeve, shortening duration, or shifting part of the equity sleeve to dividend or lower volatility exposures to reduce drawdown risk while keeping some equity upside, as allocation research suggests CFA Institute analysis on asset allocation.

Checklist for next steps and verification

Document goals and time horizon. Select accounts that match tax needs. Choose diversified, low cost ETFs and confirm expense ratios and liquidity. Implement initial purchases to reach the 70/30 target. Set a rebalancing rule and schedule periodic reviews. Monitor fees, spreads, and distributions as part of regular maintenance; ETF construction and rebalancing guidance can help with these checks iShares ETF basics and portfolio construction.

Verify details and consider professional advice for complicated tax or estate situations. Use this article as a starting framework, then review fund documents and primary sources before executing trades, following FinancePolice’s approach to clear, practical guidance.

How often should I rebalance a 70/30 ETF portfolio?

Rebalancing frequency depends on costs, tax sensitivity, and tolerance for drift. Common approaches are annual or threshold rebalancing (for example plus or minus 5 points); choose the method that fits your taxes and trading costs.

Can I use ETFs in both taxable and retirement accounts for a 70/30 split?

Yes. Place tax sensitive holdings thoughtfully: bond allocations that create taxable income often fit better in tax advantaged accounts, while tax efficient equity ETFs can remain in taxable accounts.

Does 70/30 guarantee higher returns than 60/40?

No. A 70/30 split typically raises expected long term return and short term volatility compared with 60/40, but outcomes vary with markets and personal time horizon.

A 70/30 ETF portfolio is a rule of thumb to tilt toward growth while keeping some fixed income buffer. Treat it as a starting point and adjust for your time horizon, tax situation, and personal tolerance for volatility.

Verify fund details and consider professional advice for complex tax or investment questions before making large allocation changes.

References

https://www.sec.gov/oiea/investor-alerts-and-bulletins/etfs

https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/research/asset-allocation-2024

https://www.ishares.com/us/education

https://www.blackrock.com/us/financial-professionals/insights/investment-directions-fall-2025

https://investor.vanguard.com/investing/asset-allocation

https://etfgi.com/research/global-etf-and-etp-research-2024

https://www.invesco.com/content/dam/invesco/us/en/product-documents/others/fact-sheet/invesco-strategic-etf-70-30-portfolio-fact-sheet.pdf

https://www.morningstar.com/articles/rigorous-rebalancing-guide-2024

https://financepolice.com/advanced-etf-trading-strategies/

https://financepolice.com/category/investing/

https://financepolice.com/maximize-your-portfolio-returns-with-tax-efficient-investing-strategies-for-2026-and-future-years/

https://www.lazardassetmanagement.com/us/en_us/research-insights/investment-insights/investment-research/liquidity-structure-of-etfs

The 4% rule is a simple retirement planning idea: take 4% of your portfolio in the first year and then raise that dollar amount with inflation each year. It began as a historical test to see how fixed withdrawals behaved across past U.S. market sequences and became a widely cited baseline for retirement planners.

This article explains what the rule means, how it translates to ETF only portfolios, what historical evidence and modern critiques say, and practical steps you can take to model a sustainable withdrawal plan. Use these steps as a starting framework and adapt assumptions to your personal situation.

The 4% rule is a long standing planning baseline, not a guarantee.

Sequence of returns risk can undermine a fixed 4% withdrawal if bad returns occur early in retirement.

Adaptive withdrawal or guardrail methods can reduce failure risk but add income variability.

What the 4% rule means and where it comes from

The 4% rule says you withdraw 4% of your portfolio in the first year of retirement and then raise that same dollar amount each year for inflation. William Bengen introduced this guideline after testing historical U.S. market sequences, framing it as a planning baseline rather than a promise of safety; his method used past market data to show when a fixed, inflation adjusted withdrawal held up over long retirements William Bengen paper.

That approach gave people a simple way to think about a safe withdrawal rate and it influenced later work, including the Trinity research that expanded tests across different stock and bond mixes. The phrase safe withdrawal rate grew around these studies because they looked at real historical sequences to see how often a fixed initial withdrawal would last over a 30 year period.

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Keep in mind that the original formulation is a rule of thumb. It is useful as a starting point for planning, but it does not guarantee results for every investor or time period. Different allocations, fees, taxes, and the particular retirement start date change the math materially.

How the 4% rule applies to ETF portfolios

Mechanics for ETF-only portfolios, and how to start an etf

The arithmetic behind the 4% rule is the same whether your holdings are ETFs, mutual funds, or individual securities. You still calculate 4% of the portfolio value, take that dollar amount in year one, and then adjust that dollar amount for inflation in each subsequent year. Conceptually this makes the rule portable to ETF-only portfolios, but practical effects change the net amount you can spend.

For ETF investors, expense ratios, trading costs, and how you take withdrawals matter. Expense ratios reduce net returns over time, which lowers the sustainable withdrawal level compared with a theoretical model that assumes zero or minimal fees. Trading and bid ask costs can be small per trade but add up if you trade frequently to fund annual cash needs.

Tax treatment also changes the picture. Withdrawals from taxable accounts, tax deferred accounts, and Roth style accounts are handled differently by tax rules. That affects how much of a withdrawal is available to spend after taxes, and it can influence whether a nominal 4% withdrawal meets your real spending needs.

When you plan an ETF retirement withdrawal strategy, list the expense ratios and likely tax treatment for each holding. Model those costs into your withdrawal plan rather than assuming a raw 4% will be fully spendable.

What historical evidence says about success and limits

Historical simulation work from William Bengen and follow-up studies like the Trinity analysis showed that a 4% initial withdrawal often worked well across many U.S. 30 year periods when portfolios included a meaningful equity allocation. Those foundational tests used past market returns to report how frequently a fixed initial withdrawal would survive a three decade retirement, giving planners an empirical baseline to start from Trinity Study report (see the Safe Withdrawal Rate Series Early Retirement Now).

However, the historical results vary by the retirement start date and by portfolio allocation. Periods that began with weak returns or high inflation made a fixed 4% withdrawal more likely to exhaust a portfolio in a thirty year window. Treat the historical success rates as contextual evidence, not a guarantee.

How should I apply the 4% rule to an ETF portfolio?

Treat 4% as a baseline starting withdrawal. Model expense ratios, trading costs, taxes, rebalancing, and sequence of returns scenarios. Set operational rules for withdrawals and triggers to switch to an adaptive method if needed.

Also remember that history uses realized past returns. Future returns, fee environments, or tax rules can differ. That means a cautious planner treats the 4% rule as a sensible starting assumption and then layers modeling, buffers, and rules for adjustment to fit personal circumstances.

Sequence of returns risk and modern critiques

Sequence of returns risk is the idea that the timing of gains and losses matters when you are withdrawing money. Two retirements with the same average returns can have very different outcomes if one has bad returns early and the other has bad returns late. This concept explains why identical average returns can produce different survival outcomes for fixed withdrawal plans Sequence of returns risk overview (see Kitces for a detailed analysis Kitces and Schwab’s primer Schwab).

Practitioner and academic work through 2024 and beyond highlights that SORR is a primary driver of failures for a strict inflation adjusted 4% rule, especially when markets start retirement with steep declines. Lower expected future returns make the rule more fragile because there is less upside to offset early losses.

a simple scenario tester for early retirement return sequences

Starting portfolio

Annual withdrawal percent

Years

Remaining balance:
–
USD

Use varying early year returns to see sequence effects

Because of sequence risk, many modern researchers and planning practitioners recommend adaptive strategies or guardrails. Those approaches adjust withdrawals or pause inflation adjustments after bad early returns, lowering the chance of running out of money compared with a strict fixed rule.

Dynamic and guardrail alternatives to a fixed 4%

Several adaptive withdrawal strategies are commonly discussed. One approach is a spending band or guardrail where withdrawals rise or fall within a band tied to portfolio performance. Another is a percentage-of-portfolio rule, where each year you withdraw a fixed percentage of current portfolio value rather than a fixed inflation adjusted dollar amount. A third is a hybrid rule that uses a target inflation adjusted payment but adjusts that payment up or down if portfolio value moves beyond certain thresholds. Research suggests these methods can lower failure risk compared with a strict 4% inflation adjusted withdrawal Morningstar research.

The tradeoff is clear. Adaptive methods tend to reduce the chance of portfolio exhaustion, but they also create more variability in year to year income. That can be a real planning cost for people who need steady monthly cash to meet fixed living expenses. The decision comes down to how much income stability you value versus how much longevity risk you are willing to accept.

To choose among options, compare hypothetical income paths under each method for your assumed returns, fees, and tax profile. If you prioritize predictable income, you might accept a higher failure probability or seek outside income solutions like partial guaranteed income. If you prioritize reducing the chance of running out of money, a guardrail or percentage based approach will often look more attractive.

How to implement a 4%-based plan with ETFs step by step

Step 1, pick a starting withdrawal rate. Use 4% as a baseline, then adjust that starting figure if your time horizon, allocation, fees, or tax situation suggest a different number. Think of 4% as an initial assumption to test, not a fixed prescription.

Step 2, build a simple model that includes expected expense ratios, likely taxes on withdrawals, and a rebalancing plan. Rebalancing cadence matters because selling gains to fund spending or to return to target allocation affects future return paths. Include conservative cost assumptions when you test sustainability Vanguard guidance on withdrawal strategies.

Step 3, set operational rules. Decide how you will take cash from your ETF holdings, which accounts you will draw from first for tax efficiency, and how often you will rebalance. Document triggers for switching to an adaptive rule if early returns are poor. For example you might plan to pause inflation adjustments or switch to a percentage of portfolio withdrawal if the value drops below a pre set threshold.

Test your ETF withdrawal assumptions

Run your numbers with conservative fee and tax assumptions, and save your checklist so you can review it annually as conditions change.

Save checklist

Step 4, pick low cost ETFs and a rebalancing cadence. Low expense ratios reduce the drag on returns, which helps the sustainable withdrawal level. Annual or semi annual rebalancing is common for many investors and keeps allocation risk in check without excessive trading.

These steps create a replicable workflow for ETF retirement withdrawal strategy. The goal is not to lock into a number forever but to create a defensible starting plan and clear triggers for adjustments when reality diverges from assumptions.

Common mistakes, pitfalls, and questions to ask before you withdraw

Avoid these frequent errors. First, do not treat historical success as a guarantee of future results. Second, do not ignore fees and taxes when modeling withdrawals. Third, do not let a single year of poor returns force emotional decisions without consulting your rules or model. Many failures are avoidable when people plan and document their approach ahead of time Investor.gov retirement income basics.

Decision checklist before you commit to a withdrawal rate. Confirm your time horizon and spending needs. Estimate likely taxes given which accounts you will draw from. List the expense ratios of your ETFs and choose a rebalancing cadence. Decide on a contingency plan for sequence shocks, such as reducing withdrawals or drawing from a short term cash buffer.

Also consider whether you have access to guaranteed income sources, like a pension or annuity, that can cover core living costs. Having a portion of guaranteed income can make a withdrawal plan less sensitive to sequence of returns risk and reduce pressure to spend from the portfolio in bad years.

Scenario A: A diversified ETF portfolio with a moderate equity allocation is often the reference case in the 4% literature. Conceptually, a 4% starting withdrawal gives a simple cash number to plan around, and historical tests show it succeeded in many U.S. thirty year sequences when equity exposure was meaningful. Use that scenario to test whether fees and taxes change the sustainable level after you add realistic costs into your model William Bengen paper.

Scenario B: A conservative portfolio with a higher bond allocation will generally have lower expected long run returns and so a fixed 4% withdrawal is less resilient in principle. Historical simulations that vary stock bond mixes show differing success rates, which is why your allocation choice matters when you set a starting withdrawal amount Vanguard guidance on withdrawal strategies.

The Final checklist. Model assumptions explicitly, including expected returns, expense ratios, and taxes. Check your ETF expense ratios and trading costs. Decide on a rebalancing cadence and write down withdrawal mechanics. Set decision triggers for switching to an adaptive rule, like a guardrail or percentage of portfolio rule. Verify your sources and revisit the plan annually.

Applied thoughtfully, the 4% rule is a useful planning baseline for ETF investors. It is not a guarantee, but it gives a simple starting point to model and compare alternatives, including dynamic rules that can reduce failure risk in difficult return sequences.

What exactly does the 4% rule require in year one and after?

The 4% rule asks you to withdraw 4% of your portfolio in year one and then increase that dollar amount each year by inflation to maintain purchasing power.

Can ETFs be used with the 4% rule?

Yes, the rule applies conceptually to ETF portfolios, but you should model expense ratios, trading costs, and taxes since they affect net sustainable withdrawals.

Should I use a fixed 4% withdrawal forever?

Many planners treat 4% as a starting point. Consider adaptive guardrails or percentage of portfolio rules if you want lower failure risk in bad early return sequences.

A 4% starting withdrawal can be a useful planning anchor when you build an ETF retirement plan. Model fees, taxes, and possible early year shocks before you commit to a fixed dollar path.

If your assumptions or comfort with variability change, consider a guardrail or percentage based approach. Revisit your plan regularly and update it when tax rules, fees, or your personal situation change.

References

https://www.retailinvestor.org/pdf/Bengen1.pdf

https://www.trinity.edu/rjensen/343wp/TrinityStudy1998.pdf

https://earlyretirementnow.com/safe-withdrawal-rate-series/

https://www.retirementresearcher.com/sequence-of-returns-risk-safe-withdrawal-rates-2024

https://www.kitces.com/blog/understanding-sequence-of-return-risk-safe-withdrawal-rates-bear-market-crashes-and-bad-decades/

https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/timing-matters-understanding-sequence-returns-risk

https://www.morningstar.com/articles/2025/is-the-4-percent-rule-still-viable

https://investor.vanguard.com/retirement/withdrawal-strategies/4-percent-rule

https://financepolice.com/advertise/

https://www.investor.gov/financial-advice/retirement/retirement-income

https://financepolice.com/advanced-etf-trading-strategies/

https://financepolice.com/category/investing/

https://financepolice.com/