The Cryptonomist

Following the recent FOMC announcement, cryptocurrency markets mirrored the pattern observed after the previous rate cut: a modest pre-meeting rally, a period of stabilization, and a decline once the cut was confirmed.

Many market observers are interpreting these dips as strategic entry points, particularly for meme coins that have shown resilience throughout this cycle. These tokens are currently experiencing pullbacks and have maintained steady accumulation zones for some time.

This article highlights the best meme coins to buy now, as several are positioned for potential momentum in the coming weeks, especially with renewed retail interest driving volume spikes.

SEC Approval Paves Way for Tokenized Stocks and Bonds on Blockchain

The recent approval by the SEC of the DTCC’s request to tokenize stocks and bonds on the blockchain marks a significant shift for both traditional finance and the cryptocurrency markets.

This move could unlock massive capital inflows into the blockchain ecosystem, potentially amounting to trillions of dollars over time. Tokenization enables instant settlement, reduces collateral needs, lowers counterparty risk, and improves overall capital efficiency.

BREAKING: SEC has officially approved DTCC request to tokenize stocks and bonds on the blockchain.

Trillions will flow into Crypto pic.twitter.com/RGenJvnX1l

— Ash Crypto (@AshCrypto) December 12, 2025

It enables 24/7 trading, allowing both institutional and retail investors to respond to market movements in real time. Firms like BlackRock and Fidelity could benefit from higher activity, while tokenization may improve blockchain accessibility for everyday users.

Overall, this development represents a step toward a more efficient, liquid, and globally integrated financial system, while also reinforcing the long-term value proposition of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

Top Meme Coins to Buy as Utility Starts to Matter

As more traditional assets move onto the blockchain, meme coins are emerging as a surprising area of growth. Their viral nature and strong communities make certain projects stand out from the rest.

Some are now pairing hype with real utility that extends beyond pure speculation. Below is a list of some of the best meme coins to buy now.

Dogecoin (DOGE)

Dogecoin continues to stand out as one of the more established and resilient meme coins in the market. Increased activity and public support from Elon Musk have kept Dogecoin relevant, reinforcing its status as a long-term bullish asset among meme tokens.

Its longevity and strong brand recognition position it as a safer option compared to newer, more speculative meme coins. $DOGE often benefits during periods of renewed market optimism, especially when interest in meme assets begins to rise.

While price movements can be modest compared to smaller projects, its stability appeals to investors seeking lower-risk exposure. As a result, Dogecoin remains a core holding for those looking to balance speculation with familiarity in the meme coin sector.

Pepe (PEPE)

Pepe is showing renewed strength as the meme coin market begins to heat up alongside improving broader crypto sentiment. The token has posted double-digit gains recently, recovering a large portion of its previous losses and signaling growing buyer interest.

Price action indicates a rebound from long-term support, with Pepe breaking above key downtrend lines and entering a consolidation phase. This structural shift suggests momentum may be turning bullish after an extended correction.

Having been in the market for some time, $PEPE is increasingly viewed as a more established meme coin. With technical support holding and volume improving, Pepe is positioned as a relatively safer meme coin option if market conditions continue to stabilize.

Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER)

Bitcoin Hyper is emerging as a notable layer-2 solution for Bitcoin, offering enhanced scalability and faster transaction speeds. The project has already raised nearly $30 million during its presale, reflecting strong investor interest despite current market conditions.

Source – Alessandro De Crypto YouTube Channel

Its platform enables fast and low-cost Bitcoin transactions, unlocking potential for meme coins and broader Bitcoin payments. Users can access features like a wallet, explorer, bridge, staking, and other tools designed to leverage its layer-2 technology.

With staking rewards of up to 40%, Bitcoin Hyper provides both utility and earning potential for investors, positioning it as one of the best meme coins to buy now. To take part in the $HYPER token presale, visit bitcoinhyper.com.

Shiba Inu (SHIB)

Shiba Inu is showing renewed potential in the current crypto market, trading 91% below its all-time high and compressing into a historically strong support zone. This long-term accumulation range has previously triggered significant upward movements, making it a key level for potential rallies.

Recent weekly gains suggest growing momentum, and with upcoming macroeconomic updates, the coin could experience notable price swings. Its positioning within a major support block provides both opportunity and relative safety compared to more volatile meme coins.

Investors monitoring $SHIB may find this an attractive entry point, especially as broader market conditions signal a potential bullish phase. With strong community backing and key technical patterns, Shiba Inu remains a meme coin to watch closely.

Pepenode (PEPENODE)

Pepenode is an innovative “mine-to-earn” meme coin that allows users to create virtual mining rigs without any physical computing power. Investors can purchase $PEPENODE tokens to build their own server rooms, acquire and combine nodes, and increase their meme coin earnings.

The gamified structure adds a layer of engagement, letting users upgrade facilities, sell nodes, and earn bonuses, which has generated significant community excitement. With $2.3 million raised in its presale, the project offers a limited-time opportunity for early participants.

Source – Nazza Crypto YouTube Channel

The virtual mining system combines elements of strategy and rewards, making the experience both interactive and potentially profitable. As the presale approaches its end, Pepenode stands out as a unique way for enthusiasts to engage with meme coins while leveraging a digital, play-to-earn environment.

Visit Pepenode

This article has been provided by one of our commercial partners and does not reflect Cryptonomist’s opinion. Please be aware our commercial partners may use affiliate programs to generate revenues through the links on this article.

Cryptonomist, a leading publication in crypto, blockchain, and financial markets information, announces the launch of a strategic editorial collaboration with Investing.com, one of the main international platforms for financial data, analysis, and news.

The agreement includes the regular publication of original and exclusive market analyses by Cryptonomist on Investing.com, with a frequency of approximately two articles per week. The content will focus on cryptocurrencies, global financial markets, and macroeconomic dynamics, maintaining the analytical, independent, and data-driven approach that has always characterized Cryptonomist’s editorial line.

An editorial partnership based on the quality of crypto content

The collaboration with Investing.com represents a recognition of the editorial value of Cryptonomist. Access to publishing analyses on Investing.com is indeed reserved for a limited number of selected publishers, capable of ensuring specialized expertise, continuity in content production, and high editorial standards.

Through this partnership, Cryptonomist expands the international distribution of its analyses, enhancing the brand’s visibility on a platform used daily by traders, investors, and professional operators in the financial markets.

Exclusive Conditions on Investing PRO for Cryptonomist Readers

As part of the agreement, Cryptonomist has secured favorable terms on Investing PRO products, the suite of advanced tools from Investing.com designed for trading and professional market analysis.

The Investing PRO discount codes and coupons are also made available within the trading articles published on Cryptonomist, as part of a structured and transparent affiliate program. This allows readers to access professional tools at advantageous conditions (up to 70% discount), while maintaining full editorial independence of the content.

Editorial Independence and Crypto Transparency

Cryptonomist confirms that the collaboration does not affect in any way the autonomy and impartiality of the published analyses. All editorial content remains the result of independent and unsponsored evaluations, with the aim of providing accurate, contextualized information useful for supporting informed decisions in financial markets.

Any affiliate links present in the articles are clearly identified and do not incur additional costs for the user.

A Growth Strategy Focused on Selective Partnerships

This collaboration is part of Cryptonomist’s development strategy, focused on selective partnerships with international players in the financial sector, capable of enhancing content quality and providing tangible benefits to its community of readers.

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In recent years, WalletConnect has become a de facto standard in the Web3 ecosystem, allowing millions of users to securely connect wallets and decentralized applications. 

From DeFi to NFTs, and even crypto payments, its infrastructure today underpins much of the user experience in the blockchain world.

In an exclusive interview with The Cryptonomist, Jess Houlgrave, CEO of WalletConnect, shared her vision on the main barriers to the mass adoption of DeFi, the evolution of wallets as digital identity tools, and the challenges related to the increasing fragmentation of stablecoins.

User Experience: The Real Barrier to Crypto Adoption

According to Houlgrave, one of the main obstacles to the mass adoption of cryptocurrencies remains the user experience. “Today, using one’s crypto wallet is still too complex for many people,” he explains. Among the main issues are perceived security, the risk of scams, and the excessive number of steps required to complete a transaction.

WalletConnect is aiming to address these issues by focusing on three key aspects: security, simplicity, and interoperability. Tools like the Verify API and certification programs are designed to mitigate the risk of phishing and interactions with fraudulent applications, one of the main concerns for retail users.

“At the same time,” emphasizes the CEO, “the number of clicks required to do anything in crypto is still too high. It’s an issue we are addressing by working closely with our wallet partners.”

Multi-chain and Fragmentation: Too Many Assets, Too Many Networks

The increasing fragmentation of the blockchain landscape represents another significant challenge. New chains and stablecoins emerge every day, creating complexity, especially for the end user.

“Opening a wallet and seeing the same currency repeated ten times across different chains is not an ideal experience,” explains Houlgrave. The risk is making the daily use of digital assets cumbersome, especially in payment contexts.

It is precisely in this scenario that WalletConnect aims to play the role of a neutral and interoperable infrastructure, capable of connecting different ecosystems without adding further complexity for the user.

Integration with TON and Expansion into New Chains

Among the latest developments is the integration with TON Network, a blockchain that boasts a user base of millions, also thanks to the Telegram ecosystem.

WalletConnect, being blockchain-agnostic, can be integrated with any network. However, as Houlgrave explains, the goal is not just to “support” a chain, but to ensure that the experience for developers and users is of the highest quality.

“TON has a massive user base and is experiencing significant growth. We believe it could become one of the main gateways to the crypto world in the coming years,” he states.

Wallet and Digital Identity: A Natural Pairing

One of the most intriguing topics discussed during the interview concerns the future of wallets as tools for digital identity. According to Houlgrave, there will not be a single wallet for everything, but rather a variety of solutions designed for different use cases.

“I will use one wallet for daily transactions and another, with higher security levels, to manage my savings or investments,” he explains.

In this context, identity plays a central role: from simple attestations (such as proving age) to the selective and revocable sharing of personal data. The technological properties of wallets and blockchain make this scenario not only possible but natural.

Privacy and Institutions: The Next Phase of Web3

Privacy is another key issue, especially from an institutional adoption perspective. Houlgrave cites the emergence of new privacy-first blockchains as important signals, but emphasizes that much of the current ecosystem will need to learn to integrate these new standards.

“If we want true adoption of crypto payments and the massive entry of financial institutions, privacy becomes fundamental,” he states.

WalletConnect is working on this front primarily at the standards level, collaborating with foundations such as the Ethereum Foundation and other ecosystem players.

Stablecoin: Opportunity or Problem for the End User?

The boom of stablecoins is viewed with interest, but also with a certain degree of caution. On one hand, the ease of issuance allows more companies to enter this market, while on the other hand, it increases fragmentation.

“Users often do not directly benefit from the yields generated by stablecoins and find themselves managing assets scattered across multiple chains and issuers,” explains Houlgrave. Without better interoperability solutions and UX, this scenario risks hindering adoption rather than accelerating it.”

A Look at 2026

Looking to the future, WalletConnect identifies two macro-trends set to strengthen: the entry of institutions and the adoption of stablecoins as a means of payment. Payments could indeed serve as the gateway to Web3 for millions of new users who have never used a crypto wallet before.

“Many will start using stablecoins through their bank or neobank, without even realizing they are entering the crypto world,” concludes Houlgrave.

In this 2025, the Bitcoin market has been dominated at different times by various trends. 

Among all, however, there is one in particular that has been the true protagonist of the year, especially since many of the other trends have concerned the crypto market in general rather than specifically Bitcoin. 

Instead, the dominant trend specifically concerned BTC, and only to a much lesser extent other cryptocurrencies. This is the so-called institutional adoption, or rather the treasury trend. 

Institutional Adoption of Bitcoin

Institutional adoption of Bitcoin does not refer to adoption by public institutions. Instead, it refers to the adoption of BTC by so-called institutional investors.

The term “institutional investors” refers to all investors who allocate substantial financial resources on behalf of others, thus making investments in a systematic and professional manner.

These are professional investors who do not invest for themselves, as ordinary citizens (known as retail investors) do, but on behalf of their clients, and therefore with their clients’ resources and not necessarily with their own funds. 

For example, the now-famous BlackRock Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) falls into this category, which over time has raised more than 62 billion dollars from its investors and has purchased over 770,000 BTC. 

Instead, private individuals who invest their own funds on their own behalf are simply called retail, regardless of the amounts invested, even though in the vast majority of cases (but not all) these are medium-small amounts. 

In particular, institutional investors are those who are required to operate according to strict ethical and regulatory standards, ensuring transparency and acting in the best interest of their clients. 

Indeed, the institutional adoption of Bitcoin among major institutional investors is a phenomenon that only emerged on a large scale last year, with the debut of major ETFs on the stock exchange, and has solidified this year. 

In particular, 2025 marked a massive entry of institutional investors into the Bitcoin market, which might have even succeeded in reducing BTC price volatility by 40% compared to 2021. 

The main consequence of this has been the transformation of Bitcoin into a fairly “mature” asset, suitable even for many diversified portfolios.

The Treasuries

Among the main institutional investors are those companies that have become true BTC treasuries, meaning they buy Bitcoin simply to hold them in their portfolio in the hope that this will increase their value. 

The most famous is Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), which has come to hold more than 660,000 BTC. Although this is less than IBIT, they are in the same magnitude. 

Several other companies have also started purchasing BTC solely to hold them in their portfolios, and although Strategy began five years ago, 2025 was the year of the Bitcoin treasury boom. 

As of today, there are over 1.3 million BTC in the wallets of dozens of private companies worldwide, which is not much less than the 1.6 million BTC held by ETFs.  

It is noteworthy that even the United States of America has established its own Bitcoin treasury, called a strategic reserve, into which more than 300,000 BTC seized over the years by the Department of Justice have been accumulated. 

Regulatory Developments

Another significant trend, which has affected the crypto market as a whole, is related to developments in public regulation. 

In fact, during 2025, especially thanks to the new Trump administration in the USA, regulation has shifted from an obstacle to a springboard, to the extent that the USA has enacted the specific GENIUS Act, which created a framework for stablecoins, and the CLARITY Act classifies BTC as a commodity, exempting it from SEC Rule 204A-1 and reducing overlap with the CFTC.

In reality, this trend is primarily linked to stablecoins, and only secondarily to cryptocurrencies, but it is of such historical importance that it cannot be ignored even in the specific case of Bitcoin. 

To be honest, this also had a downside, namely the estimated 13% increase in compliance costs, but what matters for the purpose of this analysis is that 2025 was the year of legislative breakthrough.

Technological Innovation

A minor yet significant trend has been related to technological innovation. 

To be honest, the trend of technological innovation has dominated financial markets and has also had significant impacts on crypto markets, but it has had lesser impacts on Bitcoin. 

The fact is that on a technical level, Bitcoin changes very little, even though above the slowly evolving layer-1, there is a whole development of layer-2 or higher protocols that continues to progress. 

In 2025, there have indeed been developments that have enhanced the utility of Bitcoin, even though none of these directly concern the core protocol. These are additional solutions that can still have a significant impact. 

The Correlation with Equities

A trend that has significantly impacted the price movement of BTC is its correlation with the stock market performance, particularly the U.S. market. 

In reality, technically it is simply the emergence of a correlation with the trend of other risk-on assets that had already appeared in the past, but this year it has become much more solidified. 

If until a few years ago it was a fairly common opinion that the price trend of Bitcoin could follow different logics compared to those of the stock market, in this 2025 it has instead become quite evident that its risk-on nature makes it inevitably very similar from this point of view to other risk-on assets, and profoundly different from risk-off assets like gold. 

And thus, institutional investors themselves have begun to view Bitcoin not merely as “digital gold,” but more importantly as a high-yield diversification component, comparable to an asymmetric “call” on the digital future.

Therefore, the price of Bitcoin appears increasingly tied not only to the internal dynamics of supply and demand in the crypto markets but also, and more importantly, to fiscal, monetary, and geopolitical policies in the USA and globally.

The New Cycle

One of the most discussed trends, especially in the latter part of the year, has been related to the narrative of the so-called “long cycle” or the cycle variation. 

Bitcoin has a cycle of about 4 years (3 years and 10 months, to be precise) linked to the halving. 

To date, there have been four halvings (2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024), each followed by a bullrun the following year (2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025). 

The fact, however, is that not only has this year’s bullrun been different, because it was much more limited, but there was also a lack of a true large speculative bubble, as in the previous three cases. 

This difference has been interpreted by many as the end of the classic 4-year cycle, or a monumental change, whereas it could simply be an anomaly. 

Satoshi and the US Dollar

Initially, Satoshi Nakamoto intended for there to be exactly one halving every four years, specifically in January. In fact, he mined the first Bitcoin block on January 3, 2009, with the expectation that subsequent halvings would occur in January 2013, January 2017, January 2021, January 2025, and so on. 

Instead, BTC mining progressed faster than expected, reducing the average time between halvings to 3 years and 10 months. As a result, the first halving was not in January 2013 but in November 2012, the second in July 2016, the third in May 2020, and the fourth in April 2024. 

It is likely that not only was Satoshi’s choice of 4 years not random, but it was also no coincidence that he mined the first block right at the beginning of January 2009. 

The curious thing is that the Bitcoin protocol was published by Nakamoto on October 31, 2008, but he waited more than two months to mine the first block. 

Another curious fact is that in January 2009, the new US president (Barack Obama) took office, having been elected in November of the previous year, and that US presidential elections are always held every four years, in November, with the new president officially taking office in January of the following year. In fact, in January 2013, Obama’s second term began, in January 2017, Trump’s first term, in January 2020, Biden’s term, and in January 2025, Trump’s second term. 

These curiosities might have an explanation if one hypothesizes that Satoshi Nakamoto was aware of the US Dollar cycle and aimed to link Bitcoin’s price trend to that cycle. After all, he created it precisely to provide a tool for defense against the loss of purchasing power of fiat currencies, among which the dollar is the main one globally, and the technique used to achieve this was precisely the halving. 

Indeed, over the following years, and especially after 2017 and even more so after 2020, the trend of Bitcoin’s price in dollars (BTCUSD) began to correlate with the USCPI/DXY ratio, which is the Consumer Price Index in the USA (USCPI) and the Dollar Index (DXY). 

It should be noted that USCPI almost always increases, while DXY often follows a four-year cycle linked to presidential elections, rising in the election year and falling the following year. 

Modified Cycle or Not?

Well, the Dollar Index cycle has not changed, so much so that during 2025 it is exhibiting a trend extremely similar to that of 2017. In 2021, however, it was emerging from the largest QE in history, which had temporarily altered its cycle. 

Therefore, the cycle that should underpin the price trend of Bitcoin, namely the trend of the USCPI/DXY ratio, has not changed, but the price trend of Bitcoin in these last months of 2025 is markedly different compared to that of 2017. 

The issue is that two massive anomalies have formed on BTCUSD, both in October 2017 and October 2025, making the trends of these two months incomparable.

In fact, in October 2017, while the DXY was slightly rising, BTCUSD should have decreased, yet in a completely anomalous manner, a colossal speculative bubble inflated, which then burst a couple of months later. This anomaly did not occur this year, but in reality, it is quite normal for anomalies not to repeat. 

Additionally, in October 2025, the USA experienced the longest government shutdown in history, which had a significant negative impact on BTDUSD, especially in November. This is also an anomaly, as it has never happened before because previous shutdowns have lasted much less time since Bitcoin has existed. 

At this point, the two Bitcoin cycles (the one that culminated in 2017 and the one that culminated in 2025) are not comparable, whereas the cycle underlying the BTCUSD trend is not only comparable but is also essentially the same.

The decentralized finance remaining one of crypto market’s most important long-term growth drivers. Among DeFi protocols, Aave stands out as one of the largest and most established lending platforms, known for its resilience, innovation, and strong user adoption.

The ecosystem has paid over a billion dollars in interest and processed trillions in cumulative deposits, highlighting its scale and relevance in the broader blockchain space. $AAVE’s price is back in focus as the token hovers around $195 following a modest dip in the latest session.

Recent updates around the Aave app and protocol upgrades have renewed interest in the project, especially as market participants look for fundamentally strong assets during periods of volatility.

With ongoing upgrades to design, usability, and security, Aave is reinforcing its role in DeFi, leaving investors focused on Aave price prediction and whether it is the best crypto to buy now.

How Aave V4 Redefines Lending with Smarter Liquidations

The Aave V4 upgrade introduces a major advancement in decentralized lending by replacing rigid, outdated systems with adaptive mechanisms that respond dynamically to market conditions.

Central to this upgrade is a redesigned liquidation process that shifts from a broad, one-size-fits-all approach to a precision-based system benefiting both borrowers and liquidators.

Traditional liquidation models caused market inefficiencies, but V4 precisely restores a borrower’s Health Factor, reducing over-liquidation. This approach limits sudden market impacts and enhances collateral efficiency.

Liquidations are essential for keeping lending markets safe.

Since launch, Aave has processed over $3.3B in liquidations to protect the protocol against bad debt.

We've published a blog post introducing V4's new liquidation engine and how it improves on V3's approach. pic.twitter.com/LE3zX4FN1V

— Aave (@aave) December 11, 2025

Borrowers gain enhanced protection during volatile periods, while liquidators receive fairer compensation for their participation. The upgrade also strengthens overall stability, making the protocol more resilient to market fluctuations.

By implementing sophisticated risk management tools, Aave V4 increases capital efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, these improvements solidify Aave’s position as a leading DeFi platform while enhancing safety and reliability for all users.

Aave Price Prediction

$AAVE’s price outlook highlights continued volatility but improving structure, with the asset holding above key April lows and avoiding a new lower low. Strong support is identified around the $187–$200 zone, while a critical level to defend remains near $120.

On the upside, resistance is concentrated around the $260–$214 range, where repeated rejections have occurred. Short-term charts suggest a potentially bullish setup, forming an ascending triangle that could trigger a modest breakout.

A successful move higher may target $280 first, with larger resistance zones beyond if momentum builds. However, failure to break resistance could send price back toward $187 support.

Best Crypto to Buy Along Aave

While Aave provides stability through proven fundamentals, many investors are also looking toward crypto presales as higher-risk, higher-reward opportunities. Below are two of the best crypto presales of 2025, poised to make significant market impact.

Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER)

Bitcoin Hyper is one of the most promising crypto projects of 2025, generating significant attention in the presale market. The project has quickly raised nearly $30 million, reflecting strong investor interest and a rapidly growing community.

Designed as the fastest Bitcoin layer 2 chain, Bitcoin Hyper offers an ecosystem that includes a wallet, explorer, bridge, staking, and meme coin integration, allowing users to interact with Bitcoin in new decentralized ways.

Source – Borch Crypto YouTube Channel

Its tokenomics are particularly compelling, with substantial allocations for marketing, development, exchange listings, and treasury. Investors are drawn to its simplicity, efficiency, and potential for high returns, making it one of the best crypto to buy for those seeking early-stage opportunities.

With the presale momentum continuing, Bitcoin Hyper is poised to expand rapidly, combining innovative technology with strong financial planning to create a highly attractive investment proposition.

Visit Bitcoin Hyper

Pepenode (PEPENODE)

Pepenode is a unique meme coin project that allows users to virtually mine meme coins through a distinctive node system. By purchasing Pepenode tokens, investors can build their own virtual mining rigs, upgrade facilities, and combine nodes to increase mining power.

The platform is entirely virtual, requiring no additional computing power, making it accessible and easy to use. The presale has already raised an impressive $2.3 million, with each token priced at $0.001192 and under 30 days remaining to join.

With this limited window, early participants have the chance to be among the first in the world to engage in virtual meme mining. The project’s design, rewards system, and engaging mechanics position it as one of the best meme coins to buy.

Visit Pepenode

Conclusion

Presale projects often enter the market at lower valuations, offering greater upside potential if adoption and execution meet expectations. These early-stage tokens can complement more mature assets by adding growth exposure to a portfolio.

A balanced approach that combines established protocols with carefully researched presale projects may offer better risk-adjusted opportunities, especially for investors positioning ahead of the next major crypto expansion.

This article has been provided by one of our commercial partners and does not reflect Cryptonomist’s opinion. Please be aware our commercial partners may use affiliate programs to generate revenues through the links on this article.

The world’s largest asset management company, BlackRock, has recently filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for an Ethereum staking ETF.

BlackRock first gained notoriety in the crypto space when it launched its Bitcoin ETF in 2024. It went on to become a big success, exceeding the yearly revenue of all other traditional BlackRock ETFs, some of which have been around for over two decades.

Given the success of the Bitcoin ETF, it’s a bullish sign for Ethereum as it could drive more traditional focused investors into Ethereum.

What is Ethereum Staking?

Staking is when you essentially “lock up” your crypto in a network in order to help that network approve transactions. In return, you are paid staking rewards in the form of the same crypto, effectively a yield, similar to the way that stocks pay dividends. The yield on Ethereum staking is usually in the 3-4% APY range.

Staking is part of what’s called a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus, which basically means that this system is used to decide who gets to create the next block on the blockchain.

Ethereum originally started on the Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus, which is what Bitcoin uses, which is where computers solve problems (mining) in order to decide who gets to create the next block. However, Ethereum moved to PoS in 2022, mainly to remove the mining aspect.

BlackRock and Grayscale Ethereum Staking ETFs

BlackRock already holds its own Ethereum ETF however the current one isn’t an Ethereum staking ETF. BlackRock wanted to incorporate staking however it wasn’t approved in time before the official launch.

Rather than modify the existing ETF, which would take time, BlackRock has filed for a separate Ethereum staking ETF. So when approved, investors will have the choice between an ETF with simple Ethereum price exposure or an ETF which generates a yield. Given most investors’ appetite for a yield, it’s pretty clear which one will be chosen.

Grayscale was actually the first asset management company to offer an Ethereum staking ETF in October 2025. We reported that this would open the floodgates to other companies and that is now starting to happen.

ETFs vs Self-Custody

There are some major differences between holding funds in an ETF versus holding crypto directly in a self-custodial wallet.

The main difference is in the name, with self-custody you have full ownership of your cryptocurrency whereas the opposite is true with ETFs, they hold your crypto on your behalf.

This means that when it comes to selling your crypto, or moving it, you would have to wait for normal market trading hours. Whereas holding crypto directly means it can be moved, swapped or sold at any time.

ETFs will also charge annual fees whereas self-custody wallets do not. The only costs you would face are any Ethereum transaction fees.

That’s why many investors prefer to take control and place their crypto in a self-custody wallet. One option which also has its own native token with a staking yield higher than Ethereum is Best Wallet.

A no-KYC, multichain wallet, Best Wallet ticks all the right boxes to help investors maximize the opportunities in the market. First, through the wallet, users can buy and swap cryptos for one another, meaning that there is no need to take their crypto out and move them to and from exchanges, allowing them to save money on transfer fees.

More so, being a multichain wallet that lists cryptocurrencies from a variety of blockchains, Best Wallet empowers users to build diverse portfolios and swap cryptos for one another inside the app.

The wallet is also very secure, thanks to its integration with Fireblocks, a leading name in crypto protection. At the same time, it doesn’t require KYC, giving it an edge over centralized exchanges. 

That said, the staking perks available are not limited to what is provided through its native token. Multiple cryptos listed on the platform are also available for staking, offering high yields ranging from 5% to 20%. Also, it lets users invest in new cryptocurrencies that are still in the early-stage token sale through its native launchpad.

Prominent names in the industry, including ClayBro have already reviewed the platform, highlighting its usability and standout features. 

Download Best Wallet

This article has been provided by one of our commercial partners and does not reflect Cryptonomist’s opinion. Please be aware our commercial partners may use affiliate programs to generate revenues through the links on this article.

Today, on 12 December 2025, Tether submitted a binding all cash proposal to Exor to acquire its entire stake in Juventus Football Club. Subject to regulatory approvals, Tether also plans a public offer for the remaining shares at the same price, fully funded with its own capital.

The offer envisions a long term commitment to the club. Moreover, the company intends to keep the same per share terms for minority shareholders if it proceeds with a broader juventus public tender following completion of the initial transaction.

The proposal covers the acquisition of Exor’s shareholding, representing 65.4 percent of Juventus’ issued share capital. However, completion remains subject to Exor’s acceptance, definitive transaction documentation, and receipt of all required regulatory approvals.

Strategic vision and emotional ties to Juventus

Tether presents this move as more than a financial transaction. The company states that Juventus represents discipline, ambition, and the quiet strength of those who rebuild and move forward, season after season, shaping Italian sporting identity and global fan loyalty.

“For me, Juventus has always been part of my life,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “I grew up with this team. As a boy, I learned what commitment, resilience, and responsibility meant by watching Juventus face success and adversity with dignity.”

Ardoino added that those lessons remained with him long after the final whistle. Moreover, he framed the initiative as rooted in deep admiration and respect for a club seen as a symbol of Italian excellence with a truly global presence, built over generations.

According to Tether, these values mirror how the company itself has been built, with patience, independence, and a focus on long term resilience. That said, the firm also emphasizes that its offer is grounded in tangible financial strength and a clear ownership strategy.

Tether: financial commitment and future investment in Juventus club

Tether describes itself as being in a position of strong financial health and says it intends to support Juventus with stable capital and a long horizon. The stated goal is to contribute positively to the club’s future and support sporting performance at the highest level.

The company aims to help Juventus grow sustainably in a rapidly evolving global sports and media landscape. In the event that the transaction completes, Tether is prepared to invest 1 billion Euros in the support and development of the club, reinforcing its pledge of substantial juventus financial support.

This proposal, framed as a juventus takeover proposal, is made with humility and what Tether calls a deep sense of responsibility toward the club, its supporters, and its legacy. However, the final outcome will depend on regulatory review and Exor’s strategic choices.

From initial offer to full control scenario

The structure of the deal would first transfer Exor’s 65.4 percent stake to Tether. Following completion of that step, the company intends to proceed with a public tender offer for the remaining shares at the same price per share, seeking eventual full control.

Market observers note that such an italian football ownership shift would further intertwine digital asset players with traditional sports institutions. Moreover, it would mark a new phase in the relationship between top tier football and firms from the blockchain and stablecoin sectors.

The proposed Juventus transaction underscores Tether’s broader long term investment philosophy, supported by what it describes as a strong balance sheet and a focus on building resilient, globally relevant institutions. Further updates will be provided in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

About Tether and its stablecoin-driven strategy

Under its USD₮ brand, Tether is a pioneer in stablecoin technology, with an ambition to reshape the global financial landscape. With its flagship asset, the company seeks to provide accessible and efficient financial, communication, artificial intelligence, and energy infrastructure.

By offering stable digital assets, Tether aims to enable greater financial inclusion, bolster communication resilience, and foster economic growth. Moreover, it seeks to empower individuals and businesses worldwide, positioning its expansion into sports as a complementary, stablecoin company investment strategy.

As the creator of what it describes as the largest, most transparent, and most liquid stablecoin in the industry, Tether focuses on building sustainable and resilient infrastructure, particularly for underserved communities. It leverages cutting edge blockchain and peer to peer technology to bridge traditional finance and decentralized systems.

In summary, the proposed acquisition of Juventus by Tether would combine a historic football institution with a leading digital asset issuer, aligning emotional ties, financial capacity, and long term strategic ambitions in one of Europe’s most closely watched potential sports deals.

The crypto market delivered another strong session, with total performance up 2.3%, supported by several indicators that point to improving sentiment.

The Fear and Greed Index has climbed to 30, moving out of extreme fear and toward a neutral zone that many traders view as constructive for renewed buying.

With the RSI holding at 40, selling pressure is present but weakening, creating room for a potential upside move if buyers step in.

Bitcoin (BTC) is trading near $92,000 and approaching key resistance. Analysts note that a break above $93,000 could create a clear path toward the $100,000 region before year-end, a target now gaining widespread attention.

This macro strength is already translating into action down the risk curve. The Altseason Index sits at 18 out of 100, suggesting that an early rotation into altcoins is beginning to form.

Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) is one of the first projects catching this renewed attention, climbing more than 10% in the past 48 hours.

This strong move signals a potential market-wide shift, confirming that the broader environment is beginning to heat up again and that bullish sentiment may accelerate in the days ahead.

While PENGU offers strong brand utility, making it one of the best meme coins to buy right now, the biggest upside often comes from new presales that mix meme hype with real utility. Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER) shows this model in action.

Source – 99Bitcoins YouTube Channel

Pudgy Penguins Price Prediction

Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) has gained more than 10% in the past 2 days, with weekly performance up 1.7%, even though the monthly chart still shows a 19% decline. This pullback continues to attract buyers who view current levels as a strong accumulation zone before potential FOMO returns.

Community sentiment is heating up again, with many noting that the recent PENGU downtrend closely mirrors the pattern seen after its initial launch. That earlier consolidation phase led to a powerful squeeze and strong outperformance across the meme coin sector.

Analysts argue that the current setup shows similar characteristics, suggesting PENGU may be preparing for a renewed rally based on its historical behavior. The bullish thesis is further supported by a major technical structure.

Don't sleep on $PENGU. It could be one of the fastest to recover.

Run it back! pic.twitter.com/XzmC0ctVMt

— Ali (@alicharts) December 9, 2025

A chart shared by analyst Ali shows PENGU rebounding from a long-term ascending trendline, a structure that often signals a decisive shift from bearish to bullish momentum. After a deep correction through mid-2025, the price is now finding support on this rising trendline and beginning to form a base.

Ali highlights a major horizontal resistance level around the $0.042 zone; reclaiming this level would confirm a breakout and open the door to much higher Fibonacci extension targets.

The projected path on the chart illustrates a potential rally into the following zones if momentum accelerates: an initial target at $0.06, a medium target near $0.11, and a high target around $0.18.

Pudgy Penguins Ecosystem Growth Strengthens the Bullish Case for PENGU

Beyond short-term price action, Pudgy Penguins continues to cement its status as a major global IP through steady ecosystem expansion.

Our mobile game, @PlayPudgyParty, has officially passed 1,000,000 downloads on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store! pic.twitter.com/a77xbKRRFs

— Pudgy Penguins (@pudgypenguins) December 9, 2025

The Pudgy Penguins mobile app, Pudgy Party, recently surpassed 1 million downloads across the Apple App Store and Google Play, with internal projections targeting 10 million in the near future.

This milestone is important because it shows that the PENGU brand has successfully grown beyond its NFT origins and into mainstream consumer markets, using mobile gaming and real-world products to attract a large, non-crypto-native audience.

Adding to its cultural reach, the project announced a new collaboration with Care Bears, marking a crossover between two well-known collectible IPs. As part of this partnership, Pudgy Penguins will release a limited-edition PENGU collectible on December 12 through its Playground digital platform.

Pudgy Penguins X Care Bears

We're excited to partner with one of the world's biggest IPs, @CareBears, for a limited-edition Pengu collectible dropping tomorrow, December 12th, at 12pm EST.

More information below. pic.twitter.com/B0hWPiJpqq

— Pudgy Penguins (@pudgypenguins) December 11, 2025

This item will be one of only five limited-edition Care Bear collectibles, with a capped supply of 2,500 units offered as a blind-box drop, turning it into a highly scarce and collector-driven event available through playgrounddrops.com.

These ecosystem expansions are emerging as key drivers of long-term PENGU value. The combination of strong mobile adoption and high-profile brand partnerships increases token utility and boosts brand visibility.

This expanding user base reinforces the broader thesis that PENGU is evolving into a hybrid asset that blends meme-coin culture with real-world product adoption.

As PENGU strengthens its position as one of the best meme coins to buy for brand-driven growth, traders looking for even earlier-stage upside often turn to high-utility presales such as Bitcoin Hyper, a project many now view as the next breakout opportunity.

PENGU’s Rise Signals a Shift Toward High-Utility Tokens Like Bitcoin Hyper

Bitcoin Hyper builds the fastest Layer-2 network for Bitcoin. It adds a full execution layer powered by the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) while still settling everything on Bitcoin’s base chain.

In simple terms, it gives Bitcoin the same speed and low fees that Solana offers while keeping Bitcoin’s strong security. This mix allows developers to create new apps that run fast, cost little, and still use Bitcoin-level finality.

Early buyers see this as a major breakthrough, which is why the Bitcoin Hyper presale has already passed $29 million.

Bitcoin Hyper is designing a Bitcoin-anchored state commitment layer that extends Bitcoin without changing it.

By exploring multiple anchoring models, the goal is simple: fast execution above, Bitcoin-level security below, and fully verifiable rollup history for anyone.

To read… pic.twitter.com/rbydf3MaUH

— Bitcoin Hyper (@BTC_Hyper2) December 12, 2025

Right now, most people treat Bitcoin as a store of value that rarely moves. Inside Bitcoin Hyper, BTC actually flows through high-speed apps. This raises its velocity and opens a brand-new demand channel that Bitcoin has never had before.

If Bitcoin reached today’s value while barely moving, the upside could be huge once it starts powering real economic activity across an entire ecosystem. Many investors see $HYPER as a chance to catch Bitcoin early in its next cycle.

$HYPER connects directly to the growth of Bitcoin’s first high-speed Layer-2 network. As more apps launch on Bitcoin Hyper, BTC moves through the system with real utility, and $HYPER becomes the token that fuels this activity through gas fees, staking, and governance.

When Bitcoin gains new utility through Bitcoin Hyper, both BTC and $HYPER grow, which is why many early buyers see $HYPER as the higher-upside partner to long-term Bitcoin accumulation.

You can buy $HYPER during the presale by visiting their website and purchasing with ETH, USDT, BNB, or even a credit card.

Visit Bitcoin Hyper

This article has been provided by one of our commercial partners and does not reflect Cryptonomist’s opinion. Please be aware our commercial partners may use affiliate programs to generate revenues through the links on this article.

In a move watched closely across Wall Street and crypto, JPMorgan Solana collaboration on a commercial debt deal is pushing public blockchains deeper into mainstream finance.

JPMorgan brings US commercial paper onto Solana

In a press release dated December 11, JPMorgan disclosed that it had arranged a US Commercial Paper (USCP) issuance for Galaxy Digital Holdings LP, an affiliate of Galaxy Inc., on the Solana blockchain. The transaction counts among the earliest US commercial paper offerings executed on a public network.

In this structure, JPMorgan acted as arranger, creating the on-chain USCP token and overseeing delivery-versus-payment settlement for the deal. Moreover, the bank handled the on-chain lifecycle of the instrument, aligning traditional processes with blockchain rails.

Meanwhile, Galaxy Digital Partners LLC structured the offering, while Coinbase Global Inc. and global investment manager Franklin Templeton purchased the issuance. This collaborative configuration linked multiple major institutions to the same public blockchain transaction, signaling growing comfort with tokenized debt.

According to the press statement, the USCP token is the first commercial paper offering from Galaxy. That said, the deal also enhances Galaxy’s short-term funding flexibility and connects the firm to a broader institutional investor base seeking blockchain-based money-market instruments.

Notably, both the issuance proceeds and redemption payments will be made in USDC stablecoins issued by Circle. However, this is described as a first for the US commercial paper market, where cash settlement traditionally relies on bank transfers rather than tokenized dollars.

Institutional demand and the future of tokenized markets

Scott Lucas, Head of Markets Digital Assets at JPMorgan, said the commercial debt transaction showcases institutional demand for digital assets and the broader potential of blockchain technology in capital markets. He stressed that the bank, as a user-focused institution, aims to meet evolving client appetite for digital asset exposure.

Lucas indicated that this structure demonstrates how tokenized instruments and delivery-versus-payment on public networks can streamline issuance and settlement. Moreover, the transaction underlines how traditional financial market infrastructure may gradually migrate toward open, programmable systems.

The JPMorgan Solana deal also adds to growing evidence that large financial institutions are experimenting beyond private chains. However, the project still relies on familiar legal frameworks and investor protections, blending on-chain execution with off-chain governance.

Galaxy, Coinbase, Solana and Franklin Templeton weigh in

In the same release, Jason Urban, Global Head of Trading at Galaxy, said the issuance shows how public blockchains can improve capital markets. He described bringing Galaxy’s first commercial paper on-chain, and structuring one of the earliest US deals of this kind, as a significant milestone for the firm.

Urban added that the project supports Galaxy’s vision of using open, programmable infrastructure to deliver institutional-grade financial products. Moreover, he highlighted the importance of working with JPMorgan, Coinbase, Solana, and Franklin Templeton to integrate these tools into daily trading and funding operations.

Sandy Kaul, Head of Innovation at Franklin Templeton, said institutional players are moving from pilot projects to live, on-chain transactions. She argued that deals like Galaxy’s issuance help create a more open, efficient, and resilient financial system while advancing adoption of digital infrastructure in traditional markets.

Nick Ducoff, Head of Institutional Growth at the Solana Foundation, called the issuance a key step toward bringing blockchain security and efficiency to institutional finance. That said, he suggested that replicating this template across other issuers could accelerate the development of tokenized debt markets.

Brett Tejpaul, Co-CEO of Coinbase Institutional, noted that the transaction reflects how institutional finance is embracing public blockchain technologies. He emphasized Coinbase’s role as an investor, wallet provider, and custodian for the USCP token, reinforcing the importance of secure infrastructure for tokenized assets.

Implications for institutional blockchain finance and Solana

The issuance also underscores how public chains like Solana are positioning for institutional-grade activity, particularly in high-frequency settlement and tokenized fixed income. Moreover, on-chain settlement in USDC may offer operational efficiencies over legacy cash rails, especially for cross-border flows.

Market data cited alongside the announcement showed SOL trading at $137 on the 1D chart, based on the SOLUSDT pair on TradingView.com. However, price action remains only one dimension of the story, as infrastructure use by large banks and asset managers could prove more consequential over time.

This transaction will likely serve as a reference case for institutional blockchain finance, combining a regulated instrument, well-known issuers, and settlement in a major stablecoin. As more participants examine tokenization, future deals may extend the model to longer-dated debt, repo, and structured products.

Overall, the Galaxy commercial paper deal on Solana, arranged by JPMorgan and supported by Coinbase and Franklin Templeton, illustrates how on-chain issuance, trading, and settlement are moving from concept to practice in global markets.

A new romantic caper from Netflix blends relationship drama with digital assets, as the netflix crypto comedy heads into production with a major Hollywood star.

Jennifer Garner to headline password-chasing rom-com

Streaming platform Netflix has officially greenlit a fresh comedy about an ex-couple racing the clock to recover the password to their long-forgotten crypto wallet. The film, titled One Attempt Remaining, puts a comic twist on high-stakes finance and emotional baggage.

Golden Globe–winning actress Jennifer Garner will star in the project, which is directed by Kay Cannon, according to a statement released by the streaming giant. Moreover, the movie leans into both rom-com tropes and real-world crypto anxiety.

Years after a bitter divorce, the former spouses discover that the cryptocurrency they won during a wild night on a cruise is now worth millions. However, they have forgotten the password needed to unlock the funds, turning a windfall into a crisis.

With only three days left before the account expires, the pair must retrace every step of that chaotic night to crack the code. In the process, they are pushed not only to reconstruct the elusive phrase to their fortune but also to confront why they fell in love in the first place.

Casting, production teams and prior Netflix collaborations

Garner first vaulted to stardom as a TV action lead in Alias, then shifted into romantic comedies such as 13 Going on 30 and acclaimed dramas like Juno. That said, she is no stranger to streaming originals.

She has already fronted several Netflix productions, including Yes Day, The Adam Project, and Family Switch. This new role reinforces her ongoing partnership with the platform and expands her comic credentials into the digital money space.

Beyond starring, Garner will also produce the feature alongside Shawn Levy and Dan Levine for 21 Laps, with Nicole King producing for Linden Productions. However, a specific release date for the project has not yet been announced.

From crypto wallet password recovery panic to romantic stakes

The film’s premise echoes a very real problem in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, where holders regularly lose access to fortunes due to misplaced passwords and private keys. The crypto wallet password recovery industry has grown in step with these losses.

Such mishaps have cost investors millions. One oft-cited example involves a former Ripple CTO who lost the password to a device holding the private key for a wallet that contains thousands of BTC. Moreover, a separate case saw an IT engineer accidentally throw away a hard drive holding the private key for 8,000 BTC.

“Most people often have a hunch what their password might be, but they can’t quite put their finger on it,” Niels Zondervan, founder of Wallet Recovery NL, said in a 2021 interview. That lingering doubt and near-miss tension is exactly what the movie aims to mine for comedy and emotional stakes.

In this context, a crypto comedy film plot about an expiring account mirrors fears that haunt real investors every time they misplace login details or delay backing up seed phrases. However, the cinematic version offers a hopeful, entertaining resolution.

Netflix’s turbulent crypto day off screen

The announcement of this light-hearted project coincided with a much darker crypto-related headline for Netflix. On the same day, filmmaker Carl Rinsch was found guilty of defrauding the company and funneling misappropriated funds into digital assets and luxury goods.

According to court findings, Rinsch used $11 million in misused production money to buy cryptocurrencies and high-end items. He was convicted on one count of wire fraud, one count of money laundering, and five counts of transacting with illicitly obtained property.

Rinsch now faces a potential sentence of up to 90 years in prison and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 17, 2026. That said, the off-screen scandal starkly contrasts with the playful tone of the One Attempt Remaining movie.

Within this wider context of netflix crypto news update stories, the jennifer garner netflix film stands out as a more uplifting narrative. However, it still draws on the genuine risks and complexities of digital finance.

One Attempt Remaining movie and the appeal of crypto comedies

Blending romance, financial peril, and modern tech confusion, the one attempt remaining movie underlines how the streaming platform sees entertainment value in the tension around forgotten keys and irreversible blockchain transactions. Moreover, it taps into a growing mainstream fascination with digital currencies.

As Kay Cannon directed comedy projects typically mix sharp humor with emotional depth, this new feature is positioned to turn an everyday digital nightmare into a heartfelt crowd-pleaser. With Linden Productions Nicole King on board alongside 21 Laps, the production aims to balance genre fun with relatable human drama.

In summary, Netflix’s latest foray into the digital asset world frames a very real crypto fear through romantic-comedy storytelling, potentially broadening audience understanding of the stakes involved when a single forgotten phrase controls a life-changing fortune.

South Korean investors will gain new exposure to Ripple Labs through a structured deal that centers on the vivopower ripple strategy and avoids direct capital risk for the company.

VivoPower shifts toward XRP-focused digital asset business

VivoPower International PLC, listed on Nasdaq, is in the process of transforming into an XRP-focused digital asset enterprise. On Friday, the company revealed a definitive joint venture under its Vivo Federation unit to acquire $300 million in Ripple Labs shares for South Korean investors.

Under the structure, Vivo Federation will work alongside Lean Ventures, a licensed South Korean asset manager. Moreover, the joint venture targets preferred equity in Ripple Labs, giving investors a route into the private fintech firm that is otherwise difficult to access.

Structure of the Vivo Federation joint venture

According to the announcement, Lean Ventures will arrange the creation of a dedicated investment vehicle to complete the Ripple Labs share purchase. The firm already manages funds for the Government of South Korea and other institutional limited partners, which could support swift capital formation.

Vivo Federation will oversee the acquisition and subsequent management of the Ripple Labs stake. However, Lean Ventures will be responsible for establishing and operating the investment vehicle through which South Korean investors participate in the deal.

The partners disclosed that Vivo Federation has received formal approval from Ripple Labs to buy an initial batch of preferred shares. That said, the entity is now in direct talks with institutional investors to secure additional shares up to the planned $300 million allocation.

Economic impact and fee model for VivoPower

The joint venture is designed so that VivoPower gains economic upside without committing its own balance sheet. In effect, the vivopower ripple arrangement provides indirect exposure to both Ripple Labs equity and potential XRP appreciation while external investors supply the capital.

VivoPower expects to earn around $75 million over three years from management and performance fees, assuming assets under management reach the full $300 million. Moreover, this fee stream would represent a significant new revenue line as the company accelerates its pivot into digital assets.

This approach allows VivoPower to participate in any future valuation gains in Ripple Labs, as well as broader ecosystem growth around XRP, without bearing principal investment risk. However, performance-related income will still depend on market outcomes and the timing of any potential liquidity events.

Market reaction to the announcement

Equity markets responded swiftly. According to Yahoo Finance data, VivoPower shares jumped nearly 12% in early Friday trading following the joint venture news. That said, longer-term investor sentiment will hinge on execution of the lean ventures partnership deal and the pace of capital deployment.

Analysts will closely monitor how quickly the investment vehicle secures commitments from South Korean institutions and high-net-worth clients. Moreover, the market will watch whether this structure can become a template for further south korean investor access to global digital asset and fintech equity opportunities.

In summary, the partnership between Vivo Federation and Lean Ventures positions VivoPower as a fee-based intermediary to Ripple Labs equity and XRP upside, with $300 million targeted in assets and an expected $75 million fee opportunity over three years.

European interest in building a bitcoin treasury is accelerating as governments study the impact of recent national-level purchases of the asset.

Czech Republic sets the pace for national Bitcoin reserves

The recent Czech Republic decision to acquire Bitcoin has sparked intense debate across Europe. Moreover, analysts expect similar moves as policymakers gauge strategic benefits. In a recent coinbase john dagostino interview, Senior Advisor John D’Agostino said it is only a matter of time before more Eurozone states hold Bitcoin on their balance sheets.

D’Agostino argued that the smooth execution of Czechia‘s trade and its clear policy framework will be a key catalyst for peers. Back in November, the Czech Republic disclosed a purchase of $1 million in Bitcoin and other digital assets, including US dollar-denominated stablecoins. However, the transaction was framed as an experiment rather than a speculative bet.

At the time, the country’s central bank explained that the primary objective was to “gain experience with digital markets.” Furthermore, the institution said the initiative would build internal know-how for asset custody, crisis management, and AML verification. That said, officials stressed that they are not planning an aggressive expansion of their BTC exposure.

Despite that caution, D’Agostino expects the Czech National Bank‘s move to reverberate across the bloc. He believes other European authorities will want to test their own digital asset processes so they are not left trailing Prague’s early efforts. “That type of thinking is contagious, and I can see more Eurozone countries following suit very shortly,” he said.

From pilot projects to broader Eurozone Bitcoin adoption

D’Agostino described the step by a stable EU member as “significant” for mainstream acceptance. However, he drew a clear contrast with El Salvador. While San Salvador used BTC as a bold macro experiment, Czechia appears focused on operational readiness and risk management rather than attempting to overhaul its domestic economy.

This focus on learning echoes a wider debate over bitcoin custody and compliance standards at the sovereign level. For many treasuries, the priority is developing secure storage, governance, and regulatory frameworks before committing larger sums. In that context, the Czech Republic bitcoin purchase is seen as a low-risk way to acquire practical expertise.

According to D’Agostino, as national teams gain confidence in crisis handling and AML oversight, interest in a formal bitcoin treasury structure is likely to rise. Moreover, the fact that the pilot comes from a Eurozone economy rather than an emerging market could reduce perceived stigma among traditional policymakers.

Nations race to build strategic Bitcoin reserves

Several countries have moved from observation to action over the last four years. In 2021, El Salvador became the first nation to recognize Bitcoin as legal tender and launched its own Bitcoin Reserve. That decision signaled the start of a new phase for national bitcoin purchases, even as critics warned about volatility.

Four years later, the US is preparing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve as its own response to the changing monetary landscape. At the same time, China, Bhutan, Ukraine, and the UK are widely seen as part of an emerging sovereign arms race for BTC accumulation. However, not every program is equally transparent, and disclosure practices vary widely.

Beyond these early movers, a second wave of countries is edging closer to tangible country bitcoin reserves. Jurisdictions such as Ireland, Pakistan, Sweden, Kazakhstan, and Indonesia are frequently cited by analysts as future candidates to buy Bitcoin directly. Moreover, these initiatives, combined with the possibility that more european nations buy bitcoin, could reshape long-term supply dynamics.

In summary, the Czech experiment has provided a blueprint for cautious engagement with digital assets at the central bank level. While most governments remain far from full-scale adoption, growing pilot projects and the push toward Eurozone bitcoin adoption suggest that sovereign interest in BTC is entering a more structured, strategic phase.

Backed and Chainlink have introduced a new cross-chain infrastructure for tokenized stocks that aims to mirror traditional market events across multiple blockchains.

xBridge pilot connects Ethereum and Solana

Backed, a leading provider of compliant tokenized equities and ETFs, has partnered with Chainlink to launch xBridge, described as the first cross-chain infrastructure purpose-built for tokenized stocks. The solution focuses on preserving corporate actions such as dividends, stock splits, and other events as assets move between blockchains.

The system, powered by Chainlink CCIP, currently enables transfers of Backed’s xStocks between Ethereum and Solana. Moreover, the design ensures these instruments remain fully backed while accurately reflecting traditional stock behavior, even as they circulate across different networks.

The bridge is already live in a pilot phase, with a broader rollout planned in the coming weeks. That said, the team has indicated that support for additional blockchains is on the roadmap, aiming to further enhance tokenized equities blockchain interoperability for both retail and institutional participants.

Preserving corporate actions across chains

According to Backed, xBridge ensures that actions such as dividends and stock splits are accurately mirrored across supported chains. This guarantees that stocks tokenized through its infrastructure behave consistently with their underlying traditional assets, regardless of where they are held or traded on-chain.

In a statement, Yotam Katznelson, CTO and COO of Backed Finance, highlighted the technical effort behind the integration. “We have gone to incredible lengths to bring tokenized equities in the most secure way to both Solana and Ethereum, and now we’re finally connecting these ecosystems,” Katznelson said, underscoring the importance of maintaining corporate action fidelity across networks.

The new bridge, he added, completes the loop by allowing tokenized equities to move between chains while keeping their traditional stock characteristics intact. However, the focus is not only on transfer mechanics but also on preserving economic rights, such as entitlements to dividends and adjustments during stock splits.

Architecture on Solana and Ethereum

On Solana, Backed’s xStocks use the Token2022 standard, combined with a multiplier-based “Shares Model” and automatic rebasing at predefined Activation Times. This architecture, noted by Backed, allows the system to adjust token balances in response to corporate events, while maintaining accurate share representation on-chain.

On Ethereum, the setup differs but targets the same outcome. A custom rebasing architecture tracks shares internally and scales displayed balances using an updatable multiplier. Moreover, this design helps keep the tokenized stocks synchronized with their real-world counterparts without requiring users to manually manage adjustments after corporate actions.

These parallel mechanisms on Solana and Ethereum form the technical foundation that allows xbridge tokenized stocks transfer capabilities to function while preserving investor rights. That said, both implementations rely on deterministic, rules-based logic to mirror traditional stock market events on-chain.

Toward a unified cross-chain market for tokenized assets

Johann Eid, Chief Business Officer at Chainlink Labs, emphasized the broader implications of the release. “This integration enables xStocks to seamlessly move across multiple chains with the highest levels of security, reliability, and compliance, making tokenized equities accessible in a globally connected financial system,” he said.

Moreover, Eid described xBridge as a major step toward a unified cross-chain market where real-world assets can be transacted at scale. He noted that the collaboration seeks to deliver institutional-grade security while simplifying access to tokenized equities and other real-world assets for users across the crypto ecosystem.

While the current pilot focuses on Solana Ethereum tokenized equities connectivity, the planned expansion to additional chains suggests a longer-term roadmap. However, the project will still need to demonstrate resilience, regulatory robustness, and operational reliability as trading volumes grow.

Outlook for cross-chain tokenized equities

The introduction of xBridge highlights how infrastructure providers are racing to create more seamless cross chain tokenized stocks markets. By ensuring that dividends and stock splits are properly reflected across networks, the partners aim to make tokenized equities behave like traditional securities while benefiting from blockchain-based settlement.

For Backed and Chainlink, the partnership positions both firms at the center of emerging real-world asset infrastructure. If adoption scales as anticipated in 2024, the combined approach of on-chain fidelity to corporate actions and secure cross-chain transfer mechanics could become a model for future tokenization platforms.

In summary, the launch of the Chainlink CCIP bridge integration with Backed’s xBridge marks an important milestone in connecting equity tokenization efforts across major blockchains. The project now moves from pilot to broader deployment, aiming to prove that tokenized representations of traditional stocks can move freely between networks without sacrificing accuracy or investor protections.

Despite a sluggish market, traders are watching the prospect of an XRP comeback as fresh European banking ties and renewed whale interest emerge.

XRP price holds above $2 while traders stay cautious

XRP has traded just above $2 in recent weeks, moving mostly sideways even as other altcoins recovered more strongly. The token hovered around $2.04, signaling a weaker rebound compared to competitors but still maintaining resilience on global markets.

Moreover, XRP continues to show strength in Southeast Asian markets, where trading interest remains high despite flat price action. The asset retains a market cap dominance of 3.96%, close to its yearly peak, underscoring its continued relevance among large-cap digital assets.

For now, derivatives traders are more cautious. XRP open interest sits near a six-month low at $1.36B, suggesting that many market participants expect several more months of sideways trading. However, this reduced leverage could also limit downside risk and create conditions for a sharper move once sentiment turns.

On social channels, interest remains strong. XRP currently commands a social media mindshare of 16.4%, after a recent increase of more than 31%. That said, the heightened attention has not yet translated into a decisive spot price breakout.

Ripple secures Amina Bank deal to advance European strategy

Ripple has announced a key partnership with Amina Bank AG, marking a significant step in its push into the European banking system. Amina Bank is supervised by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority and operates with a global footprint, giving Ripple a high-profile institutional ally.

This deal makes Amina Bank the first European lender to use Ripple’s fully licensed end-to-end payments network. Moreover, the bank plans to weave blockchain-based operations into its traditional payment rails, seeking to streamline interaction between bank interfaces and distributed ledger infrastructure.

Ripple’s chain will be deployed to enable faster and cheaper value transfers beyond legacy payment systems. The goal is to improve settlement efficiency for cross-border flows and reduce costs for institutional and corporate users.

“Native web3 businesses often run into friction when working with legacy banking systems,” said Myles Harrison, Chief Product Officer at AMINA Bank. His comments highlight the persistent gap between digital asset firms and conventional financial institutions.

“This is particularly the case for cross-border stablecoin transactions which traditional banks are yet to widely adopt. Our clients need payment infrastructure that can handle both fiat and stablecoin rails simultaneously, but traditional correspondent banking networks weren’t designed to support this,” Harrison added.

Beyond payments, Amina Bank can also function as a regulated on-ramp to digital assets. It will provide access to specialized stablecoins, including RippleUSD (RLUSD), alongside other tokenized fiat instruments. However, market impact will depend on actual transaction volumes routed through Ripple’s network over time.

Whale behavior and Asian flows underpin XRP demand

The story around an XRP comeback is not driven only by corporate deals. On-chain and exchange data show that large holders and Asian traders are increasingly important in shaping the token’s short-term dynamics.

In particular, Southeast Asia, and especially South Korea, has become a focal point for XRP activity. On leading local platform Upbit, trades involving XRP account for about 11.9% of Korean won volume, signaling robust interest from domestic traders.

Whale behavior appears to be shifting as well. Large XRP holders have reduced deposits to centralized exchanges and instead are placing bigger buy orders around the $2 area. Moreover, this pattern is typically read as a sign of renewed accumulation, rather than preparation for immediate profit-taking.

South Korean exchanges are now registering a fresh wave of demand. Upbit, in particular, is seeing an increase in XRP withdrawals for the first time since 2023, which may indicate that retail traders are once again moving coins into private wallets for longer-term holding.

According to CryptoQuant data, XRP continues to attract whale-sized orders even after its recent price pullback. That said, many retail buyers remain underwater on tokens accumulated at higher levels, which can limit momentum as they seek to break even.

Whales previously distributed holdings when XRP traded above $3, but they have since been buying back at lower ranges. This rotation suggests that large players are positioning for a potential next breakout, even as derivatives traders stay cautious.

Outlook for XRP after the Amina Bank agreement

Ripple’s new alignment with Amina Bank, combined with rising activity on South Korean platforms and clear signs of whale accumulation, gives XRP a stronger fundamental and liquidity backdrop. However, the price still needs a clear catalyst to escape its current $2 trading band.

If social interest, institutional adoption and Asian spot demand continue to build, XRP could be better positioned for a sustainable recovery. For now, subdued derivatives exposure, steady on-chain accumulation and the European banking expansion form the key pillars supporting the token’s medium-term narrative.

By combining DeFi infrastructure with tokenized gold staking, Falcon Finance is expanding its range of yield products for investors seeking diversified on-chain exposure.

Falcon Finance launches XAUt vault within its staking suite

Falcon Finance, a decentralized finance protocol focused on building a universal collateralization infrastructure, has added tokenized gold to its Staking Vaults, its developing multi-asset staking product. The new integration allows users to stake gold-backed tokens for pre-planned returns while keeping their underlying asset exposure private.

This move marks a significant step in the broader industry shift toward real world assets and collateral backed yield strategies in DeFi. The new vault lets users stake XAUt, Tether Gold‘s tokenized representation of physical gold, for a 180-day lockup period. Moreover, estimated returns range from 3–5% APR, paid every 7 days in USDf, Falcon’s diversified, multi-asset-backed synthetic dollar.

New XAUt vault expands collateral-driven reward models

XAUt is the fourth asset added to Falcon’s Staking Vaults product line, joining ESPORTS, VELVET, and FF, the protocol’s governance token. Together, these assets push the protocol further into stable-priced, collateral-driven reward models that aim to balance yield potential with controlled volatility. However, the gold component brings a distinct, historically established store of value into the mix.

The team positions this development as part of a wider strategy to reshape how gold functions across different market cycles. Artem Tolkachev, Chief RWA Officer at Falcon Finance, emphasized this vision in a statement that underlined the long-standing role of gold as collateral and its evolving place within on-chain systems.

“Gold is one of the world’s oldest collateral assets. Bringing XAUt into the vault system extends our vision of a multi-asset collateral engine: some users want leverage and liquidity through minting, others want a simple, stable way to allocate without monitoring positions. Vaults deliver that second path – structured yield with full asset exposure and no active management. We believe the future lies in highly customizable strategies built around different investor profiles, and the XAUt vault is a meaningful step in that direction.”

How the tokenized gold staking vault works

The dedicated xaut staking vault is designed to give users a predictable, fixed-term structure. Participants lock their XAUt for 180 days and receive USDf rewards distributed weekly, without the need to mint new tokens or rely on traditional emissions-based incentives. That said, the model still leans on collateral quality and asset selection to maintain sustainable yields.

Falcon’s vault architecture focuses on offering return profiles that resemble traditional fixed-income products. In practice, this means users gain exposure to gold-backed yield while avoiding the complexity of active position management. Moreover, the structure allows institutions and sophisticated users to align staking schedules with broader portfolio strategies.

Bridging traditional gold markets and on-chain liquidity

The integration of XAUt reflects Falcon’s ongoing effort to link traditional stores of value with on-chain liquidity systems. Gold remains widely regarded as a resilient asset class thanks to its historical role, scarcity, and global acceptance. After its combination with tokenized gold staking infrastructure, XAUt serves as a bridge between commodity markets and decentralized finance.

Falcon’s approach is to route this traditional value into a programmable environment, where collateral can support structured yield products without losing its underlying characteristics. However, the protocol also aims to ensure that exposure remains transparent and auditable on-chain, reinforcing trust for both retail and institutional users.

Expanding into monitored and real-world asset domains

This XAUt vault launch signals Falcon’s further expansion into regulated, monitored, and real-world asset domains. The protocol already incorporates tokenized equities, corporate credit, sovereign bills, and gold within its universal collateral model, establishing a diversified base for future products. Moreover, this mix of assets allows Falcon to design differentiated yield strategies tailored to varying risk appetites.

By combining RWAs with a flexible collateral engine and structured vault products, Falcon Finance is positioning itself at the intersection of traditional finance and DeFi. The new XAUt staking option, with its 3–5% APR and weekly USDf payouts, underlines how on-chain infrastructure can replicate and potentially enhance conventional income products for a global audience.

In summary, Falcon Finance’s integration of tokenized gold into its Staking Vaults strengthens its collateral-driven yield model, connects gold markets with DeFi liquidity, and broadens investor access to structured, gold-backed returns.

As digital finance reshapes global giving, Save the Children is launching a new bitcoin humanitarian fund to rethink how emergency aid is financed and delivered.

Save the Children unveils on-chain fund for emergency aid

Global NGO Save the Children has introduced a dedicated Bitcoin fund for humanitarian response, positioning itself at the forefront of crypto-powered relief efforts. Developed with digital asset infrastructure provider Fortris, the vehicle is described as the first structured fund of its kind in the charity sector.

The initiative is designed to overhaul how financial support is held, managed, and deployed in crises. Moreover, by leveraging blockchain rails, the organization wants to accelerate the flow of money to the field while cutting transaction costs and intermediaries.

By integrating Bitcoin and public blockchain technology into its operations, the fund targets faster disbursement of aid, with greater traceability over where donations go. However, it also aims to make support more cost-effective and transparent for children and families in need across multiple regions.

New custody model for crypto donations

Traditionally, non-profits tend to convert crypto gifts immediately into local fiat currencies to avoid volatility risk. In contrast, Save the Children has structured its Bitcoin fund so that donations can be securely held on balance sheet for up to four years, subject to its internal policies.

This extended holding period gives donors more flexibility to decide when their Bitcoin should be converted into spendable funds. That said, it also opens the possibility that contributions could increase in value if market conditions improve over time, potentially amplifying the impact per donated unit.

Janti Soeripto, President and CEO of Save the Children US, stressed that such out-of-the-box approaches are becoming essential as traditional foreign aid budgets come under pressure. Moreover, she framed the model as a way to align donor intent with real-time needs on the ground, instead of forcing immediate liquidation.

Focus on financial inclusion and education

Beyond immediate relief, the Bitcoin fund is intended as a catalyst for broader financial inclusion in vulnerable communities. Partnerships with Bitcoin app developers such as Fedi will support education on using digital wallets, custody tools, and basic security practices.

Through these collaborations, families in recipient regions can learn to interact safely with digital assets while still relying on Save the Children as a trusted intermediary. However, the organization also emphasizes that education and safeguards are central, given the irreversible nature of on-chain transactions and persistent fraud risks.

This strategy aligns with a wider trend in 2025, as global non-profits experiment with crypto rails to improve efficiency, traceability, and speed. According to a 2024 report from the Blockchain for Social Impact Coalition, more than 70 non-profits worldwide already accept crypto donations, though only a small subset uses them in a structured way to manage volatility and maximize mission impact.

Donor demand reshapes digital asset philanthropy

Antonia Roupell, Save the Children's Innovation and Partnerships Lead, said the new fund is a direct response to donor demand for greater control and flexibility. Moreover, she argued that converting cryptocurrency into practical, life-changing support requires both product design and clear communication with contributors.

By combining over a century of humanitarian operations with modern financial technology, Save the Children aims to set a template for digital asset philanthropy that other NGOs can replicate. However, the organization will need to prove that holding Bitcoin over multiple years can translate into measurable outcomes on the ground, not just speculative upside.

In practice, the bitcoin humanitarian fund could become a reference case for how large aid organizations structure custody, risk management, and conversion policies around crypto donations, while still complying with regulation and internal governance rules.

Macro backdrop: Bitcoin as emerging macro asset

The launch comes as macro narratives around Bitcoin continue to evolve. Twenty One Capital CEO Jack Mallers recently stated that the asset could eventually reach a market size of $200 trillion and emerge as the next global reserve asset if adoption trends accelerate.

Mallers argued that as more institutions and sovereigns recognize Bitcoin's programmed scarcity and censorship-resistant design, its role could shift from speculative trade to a core pillar of the international monetary architecture. That said, such projections remain controversial and depend heavily on regulatory, technological, and macroeconomic developments over the coming decade.

This perspective reflects a broader 2025 trend in which banks, asset managers, and public institutions explore digital assets as part of long-term planning. Moreover, rising institutional interest may indirectly support initiatives such as Save the Children's fund by normalizing crypto exposure within mainstream finance.

Overall, Save the Children's new structure signals how established humanitarian actors are testing crypto-native tools to boost speed, transparency, and financial inclusion, potentially reshaping how aid is raised and deployed in the digital era.

After a sharp weekly sell-off, Bitcoin (BTC) has entered a consolidation phase that many traders see as a period for building support.

Several technical indicators, including proprietary buy signals, now show conditions that often appear before a larger bullish move. If momentum aligns with these signals, analysts expect Bitcoin to climb toward the $110,000 level and possibly go higher in the coming weeks.

When Bitcoin trades in a steady range, investors usually begin shifting money into higher-risk assets. They do this because smaller, early-stage altcoins often deliver the biggest gains at the start of a new cycle.

The 2017 ICO boom and the 2021 DeFi and NFT surges show this pattern clearly. Once liquidity returns to the market, presales and small-cap tokens tend to move the fastest. Investors now need to focus on real opportunities instead of short-term hype.

Source – Crypto Underground YouTube Channel

2 Best Cryptos to Buy Before 2026

As the crypto market prepares for 2026, more investors are turning toward presales and early projects that offer stable entry points and strong long-term upside.

Instead of chasing tokens that already pumped after launch, many now prefer presales because they provide clear pricing, fixed allocations, defined roadmaps, and incentives before volatility begins.

This shift comes from a key trend: presales that include staking, DeFi features, or cross-chain utility retain liquidity much longer, while hype-driven tokens lose interest more quickly.

This dynamic has created a new wave of early-stage projects that blend simple retail appeal with real utility, such as scalability solutions, trading tools, or yield-focused systems.

These models aim to give investors both speculative growth and real usage once the token goes live on exchanges.

Below are two presales that follow this new hybrid model: Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER) and Pepenode (PEPENODE).

Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER)

Bitcoin Hyper (HYPER) brings Solana-like speed and low fees to Bitcoin while keeping the Bitcoin base layer intact. Instead of letting BTC sit unused, the project turns it into working capital that supports payments, DeFi, and gaming on a fast Bitcoin Layer 2.

Bitcoin Hyper uses the SVM to deliver very fast transactions and smart contracts. This gives users near-instant wrapped BTC payments, cheap swaps, and smooth NFT or gaming actions that feel like using a Web2 app.

The project also focuses on real utility by offering lending, staking, high-speed BTC payments, and gaming apps built with Rust tools.

The presale has already raised around $29.3 million and now moves closer to the $30 million mark. Influencers such as Borch Crypto expect strong upside because $HYPER combines real utility with fast community growth.

$HYPER currently trades at $0.013415. Smart money also shows interest, with two high-net-worth wallets buying about $396,000 worth in recent weeks, including a $53,000 purchase that appears on-chain.

The seat is optional.

Hyper carries the whole ecosystem anyway. https://t.co/VNG0P4GuDo pic.twitter.com/lNbiunomew

— Bitcoin Hyper (@BTC_Hyper2) December 10, 2025

The mix of real utility, a 39% annual staking reward, and a growing community makes Bitcoin Hyper one of the best crypto presales to watch.

Anyone who wants to buy during the presale can visit the Bitcoin Hyper website and use SOL, ETH, USDT, USDC, BNB, or a credit card.

Bitcoin Hyper also suggests using Best Wallet, which already lists $HYPER in its Upcoming Tokens section, making it simple to buy, track, and claim once the token launches.

Anyone who already holds BTC and wants bigger upside tied directly to Bitcoin’s future can use $HYPER as a focused way to turn Bitcoin from a passive asset into a fast, programmable one.

Visit Bitcoin Hyper

Pepenode (PEPENODE)

Pepenode (PEPENODE) gives users an easy way to experience crypto mining without buying expensive hardware. The project blends meme coin appeal with mining-style rewards and builds everything around a node game that pays out in $PEPENODE and other tokens.

Players use $PEPENODE to buy and upgrade virtual mining nodes, which generate real token rewards similar to a mining farm but without the costs or technical setup. As players improve their rigs, they can unlock higher rewards, including well-known meme coins like PEPE and FARTCOIN.

The game also creates real value pressure. Every upgrade consumes $PEPENODE, and the system burns 70% of the tokens spent. More player activity leads to a lower supply over time, increasing scarcity instead of inflating it.

This mix of strategy, spending, and valuable rewards is why many people view Pepenode as one of the first GameFi projects built for long-term sustainability.

Analysts such as Alessandro De Crypto call $PEPENODE the best crypto presale to buy now because of its utility and strong deflation model.

The presale has already raised around $2.3 million. Anyone seeking early exposure can buy $PEPENODE at $0.001192 while the presale remains open for the next 27 days. After that, the token will trade only on exchanges, where prices may never return to these early levels.

Right now, early supporters can join through the Pepenode presale site and buy tokens using ETH, BNB, USDT, or a credit or debit card.

The team also suggests using Best Wallet as another option because the app already lists $PEPENODE in its “Upcoming Tokens” presale launchpad.

Visit Pepenode

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Investors hoping that the latest Fed move would ignite a strong fed policy crypto tailwind may be disappointed as structural liquidity signals remain cautious.

The Fed decision and its limited dovish pivot

At its final FOMC meeting of the year, the Federal Reserve delivered a third consecutive rate cut, but the outcome was not as dovish as many expected. Officials remain divided over whether stubborn inflation or a weakening labour market poses the greater threat, and, as a result, they signalled little enthusiasm for additional easing.

Recent public remarks from policymakers show a committee deeply split, leaving the ultimate direction heavily dependent on how Jerome Powell chooses to steer policy. However, with Powell’s term expiring in May next year, he will oversee only three more FOMC meetings, narrowing the window for decisive shifts. Sticky price pressures and a cooling job market now create a painful trade-off reminiscent of the 1970s.

During the 1970s “stagflation” era, the central bank’s stop-start approach allowed inflation to become entrenched. That historical precedent now looms large. Moreover, it helps explain why many officials are reluctant to move too aggressively in either direction as they weigh competing risks.

Balance sheet moves: support for banks, not crypto

Within this context, two recent Fed actions deserve close scrutiny: the removal of the aggregate cap on the Standing Repo Facility (SRF), and a new round of Treasury bill purchases aimed at maintaining ample reserves in the banking system. The Fed can also buy other US Treasuries with up to three years remaining maturity if needed.

The central bank’s goal is clear. It is not trying to deliver premium liquidity to equity or digital asset markets, but to stabilise short-term bank funding and ease money market strains. The projected purchase of $40 billion in T-bills this month, combined with a looser SRF, should help steady equity indices; however, it is unlikely to generate a broad-based rally comparable to the one seen in 2021.

Powell stressed that current T-bill purchases are strictly for “reserve management”, underscoring that the primary purpose of balance sheet expansion is stability. Moreover, this language signals that the Fed is not intentionally unleashing a new liquidity wave to drive risk assets higher, including cryptocurrencies and high-beta tech stocks.

In practice, these operations are supportive for short-term funding markets and banks. That said, they do not meaningfully alter the long-term cost of capital that typically powers multi-month bull runs across speculative assets.

Rates market signals and long term rates impact

Rate traders have reacted to the meeting by scaling back previous optimism. Markets now price in only two cuts in 2026, both of 25bps, with no further easing expected until January 2028. This path leaves the projected terminal rate around 3.4%, notably higher than in the pre-pandemic era.

Bond market pricing tells an even clearer story. Since late October, yields on Treasuries maturing in under three years have fallen, but the 10-year yield remains stuck above 4.1%, and longer-dated T-bond yields have risen substantially. Therefore, long-term financing costs stay elevated, implying that riskier markets will face a persistent liquidity drought.

For equities, this mix favours large-cap names with robust balance sheets over speculative growth. For digital assets, it means that any sustainable rally needs genuine, long-duration capital rather than temporary, policy-driven bursts of enthusiasm.

Smart money positioning in the crypto options market

Derivatives data underline this cautious stance. In the crypto options market sentiment, traders remain structurally bearish on BTC and ETH, and that view has hardened since the FOMC. Bullish activity is mostly concentrated in ultra-short-dated 0DTE contracts, highlighting a preference for intraday speculation rather than long-term exposure.

The far-month bullish skew that previously supported ETH has now disappeared, with positioning shifting to a neutral-to-bearish regime. Moreover, this pattern indicates that professional traders see ETH’s sharp rebounds as driven primarily by speculative flows, not by improving fundamentals or a durable growth story.

ETH’s implied forward yield is just 3.51%, versus roughly 4.85% for BTC. From an institutional investor’s perspective, these returns look unattractive compared with risk-free or near risk-free alternatives. That said, BTC still holds a relative edge over ETH and is often seen, at best, as a “hold” rather than a high-conviction buy.

Why fed policy crypto dynamics still favour other assets

The Fed’s renewed balance sheet expansion objectively benefits the stock market, while simultaneously weakening the US dollar and underpinning a sustained long-term rise in gold and silver. The euro also stands to gain from these flows. However, aside from a few large-cap tokens such as Bitcoin, the broader crypto market struggles to keep pace.

Crypto still trades like a dollar-denominated, offshore, equity-like market that competes directly with precious metals and stock indices for risk capital. In a world of elevated long-term yields and fragile sentiment, many investors have limited appetite for that additional volatility. Therefore, for more conservative portfolios, a reduced allocation to digital assets can be a rational choice.

Trading implications and crypto risk management strategies

For digital assets, the Fed’s stance is far from ideal. Sustained, large-scale rallies typically require a powerful influx of long-term liquidity, not just marginal adjustments in money markets. Moreover, elevated long-term rates will keep strategic investors cautious, leaving price discovery increasingly dominated by leveraged speculators.

This environment suggests that short-term rebounds will coexist with entrenched long-term bearish expectations. For assets where traditional institutional pricing power is strong, such as BTC, XRP, and SOL, those longer-term doubts will likely continue to suppress valuations. However, in segments where institutional influence is weaker, including ETH and many altcoins, leverage-driven short squeezes may still drive dramatic but temporary rallies.

Given this backdrop, incorporating far-month put protection on crypto holdings remains a prudent element of crypto risk management strategies. Yet the cost of hedging has risen. Yields generated by common crypto carry trades can no longer reliably cover the ongoing cash outlay required to maintain long-dated downside protection.

Using equities and FX as hedges

One potential solution is to lean on assets that remain in a solid uptrend, such as the so-called Mag 7 group of mega-cap US tech stocks. Investors can use gains from these names to fund option “insurance premiums” on crypto. Moreover, the Mag 7’s beta is typically lower than that of BTC and ETH, so when equities climb, their upside may comfortably offset hedging costs.

If markets fall instead, the higher sensitivity of digital assets means that far-month crypto puts can generate outsized returns relative to equity losses. This asymmetry makes them an attractive portfolio hedge. That said, investors must still size positions carefully to avoid over-hedging or forced selling during volatility spikes.

Considering the risk of USD depreciation, holding euros as a cash reserve also looks increasingly sensible. With the Fed still in a cutting cycle, the euro’s long-term outlook appears constructive, particularly if US real yields drift lower.

At the same time, European inflation is showing tentative signs of a mild rebound. As a result, the European Central Bank is more likely to hold rates steady rather than cut aggressively, while the Bank of Japan may intervene to sell USD in an effort to support the yen and curb imported inflation. Together, these forces significantly raise the odds of near-term euro appreciation and strengthen its role as a potential euro usd hedge.

Concrete structures for cautious crypto exposure

With BTC’s implied forward yield now almost indistinguishable from T-bond yields, simply holding coins offers little clear advantage over Treasuries. However, investors who must maintain some long exposure can consider more structured approaches that manage downside while preserving upside.

One approach is a risk-reversal structure, funded from prior trading profits. Here, an investor sells a put and buys a call with the closest absolute delta, in both cases selecting expiries around 30–60 days. Moreover, this strategy should be accompanied by a meaningful cash buffer to absorb adverse moves and margin calls.

If prices rise substantially and the investor realises satisfactory gains, the position can be rolled into a new structure at higher strikes. Conversely, if price action remains muted, there is still an opportunity to capture value from the significant negative skew between the sold put and purchased call as expiry approaches, before rolling over again.

Should the market correct sharply, the cash collateral set aside can be used to accumulate the underlying crypto asset at more attractive levels. That said, this approach requires discipline, as averaging down into illiquid altcoins can be far riskier than deploying capital into BTC or ETH.

T-bill market effect, gold, and alternative safe havens

The Fed’s renewed presence in the T-bill market naturally improves demand for short-dated government paper. This t bill market effect supports money market funds and bank reserves, but it also indirectly nudges investors to look further out the risk curve. However, with long-term yields still elevated, many prefer gold, silver, or high-quality equities over volatile cryptocurrencies.

Meanwhile, the perceived federal reserve crypto impact remains moderate. Balance sheet expansion is largely sterilised within the banking system, and higher-for-longer yields enhance the appeal of traditional fixed income. Moreover, without clear evidence of renewed bitcoin institutional demand outlook improvement, digital assets will struggle to attract large-scale, sticky capital.

Outlook: survival over chasing a rally

In summary, the latest rate cut and liquidity measures have not fundamentally changed the crypto landscape. Any sharp, speculative rally that lacks underlying fundamental support should be treated as a risk event rather than a straightforward opportunity. Structural liquidity and positioning still argue for caution.

For investors navigating this uncertain festive period, closely watching leverage metrics such as open interest and funding rates is essential. Moreover, tightening risk limits, using selective hedges, and maintaining diversified reserves in assets like euros and high-quality equities may be the most effective way to protect capital.

Ultimately, adopting a defensive stance is advisable. In this market, survival and disciplined positioning matter far more than betting on a late-year “Santa rally” that the current policy backdrop is unlikely to deliver.

Bitcoin remains the most dominant and secure digital asset in the cryptocurrency market. Its design has consistently prioritized decentralization and security, making it a trusted store of value.

However, Bitcoin’s original protocol does not inherently support high throughput, low fee transactions or smart contract capability. This limitation has prompted the development of layer 2 solutions designed to extend Bitcoin’s utility.

One of the most prominent and ambitious of these is Bitcoin Hyper, a project focused on delivering high-speed performance while maintaining Bitcoin’s core security properties.

Source – Cryptonews Youtube Channel

The Growing Need for Faster Bitcoin Infrastructure

Despite its strength and market stability, Bitcoin’s architecture was not built with rapid transaction execution or complex programmable functionality in mind.

This has led developers and entrepreneurs to seek alternative blockchains when building decentralized applications, DeFi systems, gaming platforms, and dynamic token ecosystems.

Layer 2 advancements in other ecosystems demonstrate the demand for higher performance, which traditional Bitcoin cannot meet without external enhancements.

Bitcoin Hyper proposes a solution by building a dedicated layer capable of delivering sub-second transaction finality, lower fees, and smart contract support.

These features are typically associated with faster blockchains, yet Bitcoin Hyper aims to bring them into Bitcoin’s sphere without sacrificing decentralization or security.

Technical Vision of Bitcoin Hyper

The fundamental objective of Bitcoin Hyper is to create an interoperable environment that facilitates rapid transaction throughput and smart contract execution.

The project intends to draw on architectural principles similar to those found in high-performance networks, enabling a virtual machine that can operate with speeds comparable to leading fast blockchains.

Source – Bitcoin Hyper via X

However, final settlement and security anchoring remain linked to Bitcoin’s original chain. This design philosophy allows Bitcoin Hyper to serve as a performance-oriented extension of Bitcoin, enabling use cases that were previously impractical or unavailable on the base layer.

Developers could theoretically deploy decentralized applications directly connected to Bitcoin’s economic layer while benefiting from near-instant processing times at much lower transaction costs.

HYPER Ecosystem and Core Components

Beyond its technical layer, Bitcoin Hyper is constructed to support a comprehensive ecosystem that includes multiple functional components. These are designed to serve both technical developers and everyday users, encompassing:

Native Wallet Integration: A dedicated wallet that facilitates asset management, staking, and network interaction.

Blockchain Explorer: A tool for transparency, allowing users to view network transactions and contract interactions.

Cross-Chain Bridge: Designed to enable asset movement between Bitcoin Hyper and compatible chains.

Staking Mechanisms: Reward systems that incentivize network participation and token holding.

Community Token Tools: Features to support the creation and distribution of meme coins and community-oriented projects.

By combining these elements, Bitcoin Hyper promotes a more robust environment, making it easier to attract users, developers, and strategic partners.

HYPER Presale Sparks 100x Predictions Ahead of Launch

The project’s ongoing presale has continued to attract significant attention, now approaching the $30 million mark.

Such early participation shows that investors recognize the potential of a Bitcoin-aligned infrastructure capable of delivering high throughput and rapid settlement speeds.

Large individual contributions and a steady rise in daily buyers further highlight the strong momentum building around the initiative.

Community traction has also remained solid, supported by consistent development updates, feature previews, and growing ecosystem transparency. This accelerating momentum has not gone unnoticed by industry experts.

Analysts like Alessandro De Crypto Official and the 99Bitcoins YouTube channel have recently highlighted Bitcoin Hyper as one of the few presale tokens with real 100x potential once it launches, citing its high-speed Layer-2 design and strong early demand.

Meanwhile, reviews from Cilinix Crypto list it among the best crypto presales to buy now, noting its scalable architecture and its ability to significantly boost Bitcoin’s transaction performance.

User Accessibility and Participation

A key feature of Bitcoin Hyper’s design is its accessibility. Users can acquire its native token through multiple pathways, including:

Crypto wallet connections (e.g., Best Wallet and others)

Payment with popular cryptocurrencies such as ETH, SOL, USDC, and USDT

Direct card purchases for simplified onboarding

In addition to token acquisition options, staking rewards are offered through supported wallets, delivering attractive incentives for token holders. This accessibility framework lowers barriers to entry and is structured to attract a broader audience beyond traditional crypto enthusiasts.

Strategic Positioning Within the Bitcoin Ecosystem

Bitcoin Hyper seeks to complement Bitcoin’s existing role as a secure store of value rather than replace it.

By offering enhanced performance features on a layer connected to Bitcoin, the project aims to open new avenues for decentralized finance, applications, and tokens that have historically been developed on alternative platforms.

If successful, this could expand Bitcoin’s utility beyond value retention into areas that require fast transaction processing and programmable logic.

Visit Bitcoin Hyper

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Investors are watching closely as the blackrock bitcoin etf flashes a rare technical signal that could reshape near term sentiment around crypto exposure.

BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust marks its first death cross

The BlackRock iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) has printed its first ever death cross, a key milestone for the world’s largest spot Bitcoin ETF. According to data compiled by Finbold on December 12, the ETF’s short term moving average slipped below its long term trend line, a pattern often linked to weakening price momentum.

This IBIT moving averages crossover emerged after the fund failed to hold its summer highs. Earlier in the year, the ETF price peaked above $70 before sliding back toward the low $50 range. However, IBIT still trades well above its early 2024 launch levels, underscoring that the signal reflects a structural shift rather than a full trend reversal.

Moreover, chart data from TradingView cited by Finbold highlights how the downtrend developed gradually. The loss of upward momentum first appeared as lower highs, then extended into the moving average structure, culminating in this widely watched crossover event.

Technical picture for BlackRock’s Bitcoin fund

From a technical standpoint, the death cross on the BlackRock Bitcoin ETF points to sustained selling pressure over recent weeks, not a single sharp liquidation event. Since October, IBIT has been forming a consistent pattern of lower highs, signalling that buyers have repeatedly failed to push price back toward its earlier peak.

At the same time, momentum indicators have weakened. The 14 day RSI has hovered in the low 40s, confirming a bearish bias while stopping short of deeply oversold territory. That said, this range often aligns with grinding declines or extended sideways consolidation phases rather than a rapid bullish reversal.

Importantly, this is the first appearance of such a signal since IBIT’s launch, giving it additional symbolic relevance for chart focused traders. However, in traditional equity markets, death crosses are widely viewed as lagging indicators that frequently emerge only after a significant part of the downside has already unfolded.

How crypto context shapes the signal

For Bitcoin linked exchange traded products, technical warnings like this may also reflect broader cooling across the crypto market after a strong first half of the year. In that sense, the ibit death cross could be interpreted less as a definitive shift into a bear market and more as evidence that earlier euphoria has faded.

Moreover, the full blackrock bitcoin etf structure still shows price trading well above its launch base, which tempers the most pessimistic interpretations. For the signal to be invalidated, IBIT would need to stabilize, reclaim key moving averages, and do so with convincing trading volume, a pattern that has not yet emerged on the chart.

However, technical traders will likely watch whether the RSI can rebound toward neutral levels and whether price can form a higher low. If those conditions appear alongside improved turnover, sentiment could shift away from the current cautious stance.

Implications for Bitcoin ETF dynamics and sentiment

The latest crossover also comes as analysts track bitcoin etf momentum and liquidity across the broader market. While flows into spot products have cooled from earlier peaks, they still indicate continued interest from both retail and professional allocators looking for regulated exposure to Bitcoin.

As spot Bitcoin ETFs mature and attract more longer term holders, technical signals like this may increasingly reflect sentiment shifts among institutional investors rather than short term speculative waves alone. That said, historical studies in traditional markets suggest that death crosses are not automatic sell triggers, but components of a broader analytical toolkit.

In summary, IBIT’s first death cross underscores a clear loss of upside momentum after a powerful advance earlier in 2024. Market participants will now watch price action, volume, and momentum gauges such as the 14 day RSI to determine whether this signal confirms a deeper corrective phase or simply marks an extended consolidation within a longer term bullish trend.