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Court ultimatum for 'cryptoqueen' wanted by FBI
A fugitive wanted by US authorities has been given 28 days by Guernsey's government to object to her assets being confiscated.
Ruja Ignatova, 45, known as the Missing Cryptoqueen, has until 16 December to object to a forfeiture order being brought at Guernsey's Royal Court.
Ms Ignatova has not been seen in eight years, disappearing days after an arrest warrant was issued for her in the United States.
In 2014, she founded the fraudulent OneCoin cryptocurrency, which saw investors lose more than $4bn (£3.2bn), according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The order is being sought on behalf of German authorities in the city of Bielefeld.
A Bulgaria-born German citizen, Ms Ignatova is also wanted by prosecutors there.
With the co-operation of Guernsey authorities, Bielefeld's prosecutors are seeking to recover funds from the sale of two London properties once owned by Ms Ignatova through Guernsey shell companies.
The companies were used to buy a penthouse apartment and a smaller apartment in London.
The apartments have been subject to a Guernsey Royal Court restraint order since 4 November 2021, the day after a BBC report revealed how shell companies obscured their purchases. A restraint order aims to preserve assets so that they may later be confiscated.
Bielefeld chief prosecutor Carsten Nowak confirmed Ms Ignatova's penthouse apartment in Kensington had since been sold for £10m, and the smaller apartment for £1.4m.
However, as of May 2024 only £8.8m remained due to costs, fees and taxes. The amount may have been further reduced since, he added.
"According to German law, the money is intended to compensate OneCoin victims," Mr Nowak said.
The Guernsey legal notice seeks to "realise assets held in an account with the Royal Bank of Scotland".
The application will be heard by Guernsey's Royal Court on 13 January 2026.
Ms Ignatova is also subject to a worldwide asset freeze, brought on behalf of investors seeking compensation at London's High Court.
The search for Ms Ignatova, who is on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list, has achieved global notoriety and is the subject of a popular BBC podcast and multiple TV documentaries.
A reward for information leading to her arrest was increased twenty-fold in 2024, up to $5m (£3.8m), under the US Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program.
The FBI believes Ms Ignatova travels with armed guards and may have had plastic surgery to alter her appearance.
Reports of sightings have come as recently as 2024, in South Africa.
However, that same year the BBC uncovered Ms Ignatova's ties to a suspected Bulgarian mafia boss who was in charge of her security when she disappeared and allegedly responsible for her murder.
Ruja Ignatova, 45, known as the Missing Cryptoqueen, has until 16 December to object to a forfeiture order being brought at Guernsey's Royal Court.
Ms Ignatova has not been seen in eight years, disappearing days after an arrest warrant was issued for her in the United States.
In 2014, she founded the fraudulent OneCoin cryptocurrency, which saw investors lose more than $4bn (£3.2bn), according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
The order is being sought on behalf of German authorities in the city of Bielefeld.
A Bulgaria-born German citizen, Ms Ignatova is also wanted by prosecutors there.
With the co-operation of Guernsey authorities, Bielefeld's prosecutors are seeking to recover funds from the sale of two London properties once owned by Ms Ignatova through Guernsey shell companies.
The companies were used to buy a penthouse apartment and a smaller apartment in London.
The apartments have been subject to a Guernsey Royal Court restraint order since 4 November 2021, the day after a BBC report revealed how shell companies obscured their purchases. A restraint order aims to preserve assets so that they may later be confiscated.
Bielefeld chief prosecutor Carsten Nowak confirmed Ms Ignatova's penthouse apartment in Kensington had since been sold for £10m, and the smaller apartment for £1.4m.
However, as of May 2024 only £8.8m remained due to costs, fees and taxes. The amount may have been further reduced since, he added.
"According to German law, the money is intended to compensate OneCoin victims," Mr Nowak said.
The Guernsey legal notice seeks to "realise assets held in an account with the Royal Bank of Scotland".
The application will be heard by Guernsey's Royal Court on 13 January 2026.
Ms Ignatova is also subject to a worldwide asset freeze, brought on behalf of investors seeking compensation at London's High Court.
The search for Ms Ignatova, who is on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list, has achieved global notoriety and is the subject of a popular BBC podcast and multiple TV documentaries.
A reward for information leading to her arrest was increased twenty-fold in 2024, up to $5m (£3.8m), under the US Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program.
The FBI believes Ms Ignatova travels with armed guards and may have had plastic surgery to alter her appearance.
Reports of sightings have come as recently as 2024, in South Africa.
However, that same year the BBC uncovered Ms Ignatova's ties to a suspected Bulgarian mafia boss who was in charge of her security when she disappeared and allegedly responsible for her murder.
Bitcoin and Ether Slip into Choppy Trading as Fed Signals Cautious Path After Rate Cut
The good ol’ Fed cut interest rates by 0.25%, but made it clear it is in no rush to cut again. A sort of ambiguous message that rocked Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) around.
The FOMC lowered the federal funds rate to a 3.5%–3.75% range in a split vote. Two officials didn’t want any cut, and one wanted a bigger 0.5% move.
Markets first reacted positively to the cut, then pulled back once traders focused on the Fed’s wording: it said it will “carefully assess incoming data” before doing more, which is the kind of language it uses when it is close to pausing.
Even so, FedWatch places a 40% chance of another 0.25% cut by March, so the door is not closed. While this was playing out, Bitcoin swung between about US$93,200 (AU$140,479) and US$91,700 (AU$138,231) and ether between roughly US$3,340 (AU$5,034) and US$3,440 (AU$5,185), with other majors like SOL, XRP, and BNB also chopping around rather than trending.
At press time, Bitcoin is trading at US$90K (AU$135K), a 2.6% decrease in the last 24 hours, according to Cryptographic World.
What Does This Mean?
The Fed also said it will restart buying Treasury bills, starting with US$40 billion (AU$60.3 billion) on Dec. 12. That kind of reserve-management buying is sometimes called “QE-lite” because it adds liquidity without being a full-scale quantitative easing program.
The market looks split, as some are saying the decision was less hawkish than feared, which explains the initial relief in bitcoin and stocks, but note that projections for only one rate cut next year are weaker than markets wanted and add uncertainty.
Others are more bullish and frame this cut as the start of easier money, arguing that cheaper capital tends to find its way into risk assets like crypto over time.
The FOMC lowered the federal funds rate to a 3.5%–3.75% range in a split vote. Two officials didn’t want any cut, and one wanted a bigger 0.5% move.
Markets first reacted positively to the cut, then pulled back once traders focused on the Fed’s wording: it said it will “carefully assess incoming data” before doing more, which is the kind of language it uses when it is close to pausing.
Even so, FedWatch places a 40% chance of another 0.25% cut by March, so the door is not closed. While this was playing out, Bitcoin swung between about US$93,200 (AU$140,479) and US$91,700 (AU$138,231) and ether between roughly US$3,340 (AU$5,034) and US$3,440 (AU$5,185), with other majors like SOL, XRP, and BNB also chopping around rather than trending.
At press time, Bitcoin is trading at US$90K (AU$135K), a 2.6% decrease in the last 24 hours, according to Cryptographic World.
What Does This Mean?
The Fed also said it will restart buying Treasury bills, starting with US$40 billion (AU$60.3 billion) on Dec. 12. That kind of reserve-management buying is sometimes called “QE-lite” because it adds liquidity without being a full-scale quantitative easing program.
The market looks split, as some are saying the decision was less hawkish than feared, which explains the initial relief in bitcoin and stocks, but note that projections for only one rate cut next year are weaker than markets wanted and add uncertainty.
Others are more bullish and frame this cut as the start of easier money, arguing that cheaper capital tends to find its way into risk assets like crypto over time.
Bitcoin dips below $90,000 as AI worries dent risk appetite
SINGAPORE, Dec 11 (Reuters) - Cryptocurrencies tumbled on Thursday and bitcoin fell back below the $90,000 threshold in a renewed signal of market jitters as fresh concerns about artificial intelligence profits weighed on technology stocks.
Risk sentiment turned sour after U.S. cloud firm Oracle's (ORCL.N), opens new tab profit and revenue outlook missed forecasts and executives flagged higher spending - a sign AI infrastructure outlays are not turning profits as quickly as investors had hoped.
Bitcoin was last down 2.5% at $90,056.24, while ether tumbled 4.3% to $3,196.62, erasing the past two days of gains, extending weakness that began in the U.S. trading session on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates.
Stocks in Asia fell and futures pointed to lower openings in Europe and the United States.
"What we saw last night was even though risk assets were doing well, crypto didn't really want to know about it," said Tony Sycamore, market analyst at IG in Sydney. "The crypto space really needs to see more convincing evidence that the washout we saw from that October 10 selloff is complete, and at this point in time it just doesn't look like it's there."
Standard Chartered on Tuesday slashed its expectations that bitcoin would hit $200,000 by the end of 2025, lowering its forecast to $100,000.
"We think buying by Bitcoin digital asset treasury companies is likely over," said Geoff Kendrick, global head of digital assets research at Standard Chartered. "As a result, we now think future Bitcoin price increases will effectively be driven by one leg only – ETF buying."
Risk sentiment turned sour after U.S. cloud firm Oracle's (ORCL.N), opens new tab profit and revenue outlook missed forecasts and executives flagged higher spending - a sign AI infrastructure outlays are not turning profits as quickly as investors had hoped.
Bitcoin was last down 2.5% at $90,056.24, while ether tumbled 4.3% to $3,196.62, erasing the past two days of gains, extending weakness that began in the U.S. trading session on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates.
Stocks in Asia fell and futures pointed to lower openings in Europe and the United States.
"What we saw last night was even though risk assets were doing well, crypto didn't really want to know about it," said Tony Sycamore, market analyst at IG in Sydney. "The crypto space really needs to see more convincing evidence that the washout we saw from that October 10 selloff is complete, and at this point in time it just doesn't look like it's there."
Standard Chartered on Tuesday slashed its expectations that bitcoin would hit $200,000 by the end of 2025, lowering its forecast to $100,000.
"We think buying by Bitcoin digital asset treasury companies is likely over," said Geoff Kendrick, global head of digital assets research at Standard Chartered. "As a result, we now think future Bitcoin price increases will effectively be driven by one leg only – ETF buying."
Crypto mogul Do Kwon to be sentenced for misleading investors who lost billions in stablecoin crash
NEW YORK -- Cryptocurrency mogul Do Kwon is scheduled to be sentenced Thursday for misleading investors who lost billions when his company’s crypto ecosystem collapsed in 2022.
Kwon, known by some as “the cryptocurrency king,” pleaded guilty in Manhattan federal court in August to fraud charges stemming from Terraform Labs’ $40 billion crash.
The company had touted its TerraUSD as a reliable “stablecoin” — a kind of currency typically pegged to stable assets to prevent drastic fluctuations in prices. But prosecutors say it was all an illusion that came crumbling down, devastating investors and triggering “a cascade of crises that swept through cryptocurrency markets.”
Kwon, who hails from South Korea, has agreed to forfeit over $19 million as part of the plea deal.
While federal sentencing guidelines would recommend a prison term of about 25 years, prosecutors have asked the court to sentence Kwon to 12 years. They cited his guilty plea, the fact that he faces further prosecution in Korea and that he has already served time in Montenegro while awaiting extradition.
“Kwon’s fraud was colossal in scope, permeating virtually every facet of Terraform’s purported business,” prosecutors wrote in a recent memo to the judge. “His rampant lies left a trail of financial destruction in their wake.”
Kwon's attorneys asked that the sentence not exceed five years, arguing in their own memo that his conduct stemmed not from greed, but hubris and desperation.
In a letter to the judge, Kwon wrote, “I alone am responsible for everyone’s pain. The community looked to me to know the path, and I in my hubris led them astray,” while adding, “I made misrepresentations that came from a brashness that is now a source of deep regret.”
Authorities said investors worldwide lost money in the downfall of the Singapore crypto firm, which Kwon co-founded in 2018. Around $40 billion in market value was erased for the holders of TerraUSD and its floating sister currency, Luna, after the stablecoin plunged far below its $1 peg.
Kwon was extradited to the U.S. from Montenegro after his March 23, 2023, arrest while traveling on a false passport in Europe
Kwon, known by some as “the cryptocurrency king,” pleaded guilty in Manhattan federal court in August to fraud charges stemming from Terraform Labs’ $40 billion crash.
The company had touted its TerraUSD as a reliable “stablecoin” — a kind of currency typically pegged to stable assets to prevent drastic fluctuations in prices. But prosecutors say it was all an illusion that came crumbling down, devastating investors and triggering “a cascade of crises that swept through cryptocurrency markets.”
Kwon, who hails from South Korea, has agreed to forfeit over $19 million as part of the plea deal.
While federal sentencing guidelines would recommend a prison term of about 25 years, prosecutors have asked the court to sentence Kwon to 12 years. They cited his guilty plea, the fact that he faces further prosecution in Korea and that he has already served time in Montenegro while awaiting extradition.
“Kwon’s fraud was colossal in scope, permeating virtually every facet of Terraform’s purported business,” prosecutors wrote in a recent memo to the judge. “His rampant lies left a trail of financial destruction in their wake.”
Kwon's attorneys asked that the sentence not exceed five years, arguing in their own memo that his conduct stemmed not from greed, but hubris and desperation.
In a letter to the judge, Kwon wrote, “I alone am responsible for everyone’s pain. The community looked to me to know the path, and I in my hubris led them astray,” while adding, “I made misrepresentations that came from a brashness that is now a source of deep regret.”
Authorities said investors worldwide lost money in the downfall of the Singapore crypto firm, which Kwon co-founded in 2018. Around $40 billion in market value was erased for the holders of TerraUSD and its floating sister currency, Luna, after the stablecoin plunged far below its $1 peg.
Kwon was extradited to the U.S. from Montenegro after his March 23, 2023, arrest while traveling on a false passport in Europe
When Will the Crypto Market Bull Run Begin in 2025?
Bitcoin Price Hit ATH, reaching $126K in 2025
Bitcoin started 2025 with a historic milestone, surpassing $100,000 as U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) drove unprecedented demand. The trend carried into early January 2025, with Bitcoin ETFs amassing over $1.9 billion in net inflows during the first week alone. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF led the pack, securing $370.2 million in a single day. After a sluggish September, Bitcoin briefly touched its ATH at $126k, driven by record ETF flows. However, the rally cooled down due to a stronger dollar and profit-taking by whales.
Bitcoin ETF Developments Accelerate Momentum
The long-anticipated approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF, spearheaded by asset management giant BlackRock, has become a driving force for the current rally. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust holds over 773,000 BTC, highlighting a pivotal move in favor of institutional Bitcoin adoption. BlackRock’s ETF, coupled with Trump Media’s $2.5B Bitcoin investment and Fidelity’s $25M purchase, is boosting market confidence and liquidity.
Analysts predict that a Bitcoin ETF could introduce trillions of dollars in capital from traditional financial markets, further elevating Bitcoin’s status as “digital gold.” This sentiment has translated into Bitcoin’s price crossing the $50,000 mark, a critical psychological resistance, while simultaneously boosting altcoin markets.
Is the 2025 Crypto Bull Run Still Intact?
As of November 2025, the broader crypto market picture remains mixed. But the foundational drivers for the bull run are still intact, though showing signs of caution.According to CoinMarketCap, the total crypto market cap currently stands near $3.11 trillion.
Bitcoin (BTC) still has a nearly $2 trillion market cap and a price in the low $91K range.
Despite factors like dollar strength, macro uncertainty, and regulatory shifts, the underlying structural case remains in place: institutional demand (via spot ETFs), growing real-world use cases, and broader adoption.
Market sentiment remains constructive, supported by credible forecasts such as that of Geoff Kendrick (Standard Chartered), who maintains that Bitcoin could realistically reach $175K–$250K by 2025 by year-end, provided the current momentum is sustained, which keeps crypto bull run targets intact.
That said, the short-term risk profile is higher than earlier in the cycle. The correction in total market cap from >$4 T levels and the large cap pullback indicate money is being rotated or consolidated rather than piling in aggressively. Therefore, the 2025 bull run thesis remains valid, but the pace and risk-reward are shifting. It’s less about a straight shot higher and more about selective opportunities, proper risk control, and timing.
What To Expect from Bitcoin and Crypto Market Bull Run in 2025?
After surging to an all-time high of $122,000, Bitcoin has retraced to around $91k, triggering a brief cooldown across the broader market. On the other hand, Ethereum (ETH) remains above $3000, driven by optimism surrounding the Fusaka hard fork and robust ETF inflows. The Binance Ecosystem category rose 2.09% in 24h, led by BNB (+0.5%) and AIXBT (+39%). However, its $3.84T market cap trails Bitcoin’s $2.26T standalone valuation, highlighting BTC’s entrenched position.
What this means: Altcoin rallies are fragmented and narrative-driven (e.g., AI, privacy), lacking the breadth needed to challenge Bitcoin’s macro dominance.
From the 1-day chart, Bitcoin is near $91,000, bouncing from the $86k “support box” noted by analyst Lennaert Snyder. The 24h rally faces resistance at $89k, a level Bitcoin must reclaim to target $93k. The RSI reading at 41 indicates neutral but recovering from oversold levels. The histogram, as seen from the chart, shows slowing downward momentum. A failure to hold $86k risks a drop to $82k. Success above $89 could trap bears and fuel short-covering.
Bitcoin’s dominance fell slightly to 58.5% (−0.63 pts in 24h), while the Altcoin Season Index remains at 24/100(+14% 24h), indicating the crypto market is in “Bitcoin Season” territory. This means that investors are favoring Bitcoin’s liquidity and perceived safety amid extreme fear sentiment, starving altcoins of capital.
Big and Small-Cap Speculation Surge
While Bitcoin dominates, privacy altcoins like Zcash (+28.86%) and Dash (+20.09%) are outperforming, driven by Grayscale’s Zcash Trust launch and speculation about U.S. regulatory shifts. Privacy coins now account for 5.19% of total crypto volume, up from 3.8% last week.
What this means: Niche sectors like privacy are rotating capital, but broader altcoin markets lack momentum.
DeFi and Yield Protocols Outperform
Decentralized finance (DeFi) has made a strong comeback, contributing significantly to the broader market’s recovery. Total Value Locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols across major blockchains has witnessed substantial growth.
MYX Finance (MYX): surged 2695% in 90 days, due to bullish derivatives positioning and technical momentum.
Aster (ASTER): +1250% driven by Binance momentum and exchange listings in October 2025.
What this means: Institutions and leveraged traders are amplifying altcoin volatility, particularly in yield-bearing assets.
Overall, the Binance ecosystem has seen a significant boost in DeFi activity, with increasing adoption of decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and liquidity pools. Staking rewards across multiple platforms has become a major attraction for investors seeking passive income opportunities, further fueling TVL growth. The renewed focus on DeFi indicates a maturing crypto ecosystem that is increasingly appealing to both retail and institutional participants.
Market Dynamics and Global Trends
The broader macroeconomic landscape, particularly the trajectory of global liquidity conditions, hints at favorable market environments. With the Federal Reserve’s potential rate cuts in 2025, and spot Bitcoin ETFs and Ethereum ETFs approved earlier this year, and the potential release of spot ETFs for altcoins like Solana on the way, the crypto market bull run stands to benefit from increased investor participation and mainstream adoption. Technological advancements in blockchain scalability and user interface (UI/UX) improvements are bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3, paving the way for widespread adoption.
Conclusion
As October 2025 progresses, the crypto market appears to be entering a pivotal phase that could shape sentiment heading into 2026. Optimism is gradually returning to the space as traders anticipate the next crypto bull run, supported by steady ETF inflows, improving liquidity, and Ethereum’s ongoing technological upgrades. The broader market narrative has shifted from caution to accumulation, with institutional positioning and Layer-2 ecosystem growth fueling quiet confidence. If momentum continues to build through late Q4 2025, the stage could be set for mid-2026 to mark the next major breakout phase for the digital-asset market.
Bitcoin started 2025 with a historic milestone, surpassing $100,000 as U.S. spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) drove unprecedented demand. The trend carried into early January 2025, with Bitcoin ETFs amassing over $1.9 billion in net inflows during the first week alone. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF led the pack, securing $370.2 million in a single day. After a sluggish September, Bitcoin briefly touched its ATH at $126k, driven by record ETF flows. However, the rally cooled down due to a stronger dollar and profit-taking by whales.
Bitcoin ETF Developments Accelerate Momentum
The long-anticipated approval of a spot Bitcoin ETF, spearheaded by asset management giant BlackRock, has become a driving force for the current rally. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust holds over 773,000 BTC, highlighting a pivotal move in favor of institutional Bitcoin adoption. BlackRock’s ETF, coupled with Trump Media’s $2.5B Bitcoin investment and Fidelity’s $25M purchase, is boosting market confidence and liquidity.
Analysts predict that a Bitcoin ETF could introduce trillions of dollars in capital from traditional financial markets, further elevating Bitcoin’s status as “digital gold.” This sentiment has translated into Bitcoin’s price crossing the $50,000 mark, a critical psychological resistance, while simultaneously boosting altcoin markets.
Is the 2025 Crypto Bull Run Still Intact?
As of November 2025, the broader crypto market picture remains mixed. But the foundational drivers for the bull run are still intact, though showing signs of caution.According to CoinMarketCap, the total crypto market cap currently stands near $3.11 trillion.
Bitcoin (BTC) still has a nearly $2 trillion market cap and a price in the low $91K range.
Despite factors like dollar strength, macro uncertainty, and regulatory shifts, the underlying structural case remains in place: institutional demand (via spot ETFs), growing real-world use cases, and broader adoption.
Market sentiment remains constructive, supported by credible forecasts such as that of Geoff Kendrick (Standard Chartered), who maintains that Bitcoin could realistically reach $175K–$250K by 2025 by year-end, provided the current momentum is sustained, which keeps crypto bull run targets intact.
That said, the short-term risk profile is higher than earlier in the cycle. The correction in total market cap from >$4 T levels and the large cap pullback indicate money is being rotated or consolidated rather than piling in aggressively. Therefore, the 2025 bull run thesis remains valid, but the pace and risk-reward are shifting. It’s less about a straight shot higher and more about selective opportunities, proper risk control, and timing.
What To Expect from Bitcoin and Crypto Market Bull Run in 2025?
After surging to an all-time high of $122,000, Bitcoin has retraced to around $91k, triggering a brief cooldown across the broader market. On the other hand, Ethereum (ETH) remains above $3000, driven by optimism surrounding the Fusaka hard fork and robust ETF inflows. The Binance Ecosystem category rose 2.09% in 24h, led by BNB (+0.5%) and AIXBT (+39%). However, its $3.84T market cap trails Bitcoin’s $2.26T standalone valuation, highlighting BTC’s entrenched position.
What this means: Altcoin rallies are fragmented and narrative-driven (e.g., AI, privacy), lacking the breadth needed to challenge Bitcoin’s macro dominance.
From the 1-day chart, Bitcoin is near $91,000, bouncing from the $86k “support box” noted by analyst Lennaert Snyder. The 24h rally faces resistance at $89k, a level Bitcoin must reclaim to target $93k. The RSI reading at 41 indicates neutral but recovering from oversold levels. The histogram, as seen from the chart, shows slowing downward momentum. A failure to hold $86k risks a drop to $82k. Success above $89 could trap bears and fuel short-covering.
Bitcoin’s dominance fell slightly to 58.5% (−0.63 pts in 24h), while the Altcoin Season Index remains at 24/100(+14% 24h), indicating the crypto market is in “Bitcoin Season” territory. This means that investors are favoring Bitcoin’s liquidity and perceived safety amid extreme fear sentiment, starving altcoins of capital.
Big and Small-Cap Speculation Surge
While Bitcoin dominates, privacy altcoins like Zcash (+28.86%) and Dash (+20.09%) are outperforming, driven by Grayscale’s Zcash Trust launch and speculation about U.S. regulatory shifts. Privacy coins now account for 5.19% of total crypto volume, up from 3.8% last week.
What this means: Niche sectors like privacy are rotating capital, but broader altcoin markets lack momentum.
DeFi and Yield Protocols Outperform
Decentralized finance (DeFi) has made a strong comeback, contributing significantly to the broader market’s recovery. Total Value Locked (TVL) in DeFi protocols across major blockchains has witnessed substantial growth.
MYX Finance (MYX): surged 2695% in 90 days, due to bullish derivatives positioning and technical momentum.
Aster (ASTER): +1250% driven by Binance momentum and exchange listings in October 2025.
What this means: Institutions and leveraged traders are amplifying altcoin volatility, particularly in yield-bearing assets.
Overall, the Binance ecosystem has seen a significant boost in DeFi activity, with increasing adoption of decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and liquidity pools. Staking rewards across multiple platforms has become a major attraction for investors seeking passive income opportunities, further fueling TVL growth. The renewed focus on DeFi indicates a maturing crypto ecosystem that is increasingly appealing to both retail and institutional participants.
Market Dynamics and Global Trends
The broader macroeconomic landscape, particularly the trajectory of global liquidity conditions, hints at favorable market environments. With the Federal Reserve’s potential rate cuts in 2025, and spot Bitcoin ETFs and Ethereum ETFs approved earlier this year, and the potential release of spot ETFs for altcoins like Solana on the way, the crypto market bull run stands to benefit from increased investor participation and mainstream adoption. Technological advancements in blockchain scalability and user interface (UI/UX) improvements are bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3, paving the way for widespread adoption.
Conclusion
As October 2025 progresses, the crypto market appears to be entering a pivotal phase that could shape sentiment heading into 2026. Optimism is gradually returning to the space as traders anticipate the next crypto bull run, supported by steady ETF inflows, improving liquidity, and Ethereum’s ongoing technological upgrades. The broader market narrative has shifted from caution to accumulation, with institutional positioning and Layer-2 ecosystem growth fueling quiet confidence. If momentum continues to build through late Q4 2025, the stage could be set for mid-2026 to mark the next major breakout phase for the digital-asset market.
Bitcoin Price Prediction 2025, 2026- 2030: Can BTC Rally to $111K in December 2025?
Key Takeaways:
Current Status: The live price of Bitcoin is $ 92,381.70, with a strong weekly gain evident on the CoinMarketCap chart. The price increase is a result of Fed rate cut optimism, ETF momentum, and bullish technicals. Traders need to monitor ETF flows and whale wallet activity post-announcement.
Market Performance: Bitcoin’s market condition has been very strong this week, with a steady upward trend and increased buying volume. Its market cap has risen, and trading volume remains healthy, indicating strong demand. Overall sentiment is bullish, with BTC poised to regain higher levels. The steady buying of BTC by traders and institutions indicates confidence, which, in turn, supports the coin’s ability to withstand recent volatility.
Price Analysis: Bitcoin is trading above its major EMA levels, indicating a clear upward trend. The price, hovering above $92k, shows that the level is well supported, while the MACD suggests the bulls are likely to continue their run, albeit gently. The consolidation phase after the recent highs is pointing to a well-defined market structure. Volume is at a normal level, which indicates that the buying pressure is under control and that there is less selling pressure, thus showing that the short-term trend is strong.
Bitcoin Price Prediction 2025: Based on current market structure and long-term strength, Bitcoin price prediction models suggest a potential 22% rise, targeting $111,500 by December 2025, driven by improving investor sentiment, macro-economic tailwinds, and continued supply scarcity during this projected timeframe. Other factors like increasing adoption, institutional inflows, and stronger liquidity conditions also plays a major role.
Future Outlook: Bitcoin (BTC) was under pressure in October 2025, first soaring to a new all-time high near $126,000, then falling back below $100,000 amid BTC ETF outflows and market consolidation. Although there is some short-term selling, strong institutional demand for Bitcoin remains. Additionally, analysts interpret the setback as a refreshing moment amid a healthy cycle. Given the stability in on-chain activity and Bitcoin’s growing hedging role, the long-term trend is towards growth. They are of the view that BTC can reach $130,000–$140,000 by the end of 2025 if there is a comeback in ETF buying and macro conditions are favorable.
Where will Bitcoin Price Head Next?
Bitcoin has been gradually climbing above all major EMAs, showing bullish strength. Moreover, the price action indicates healthy, abrupt higher lows, suggesting buyers’ control, as BTC is sustaining strength near $91,200 without significant downward pressure.
Strong support zones that hold firmly between $90,800 and $90,500 continue without deeper pullbacks. Regular buyer interest near these levels indicates accumulating demand and lays a strong foundation for the possible continuation of the short-term bullish trend.
BTC faces light resistance around $91,400-$91,600, with candles reflecting temporary indecision. However, repeated tests and controlled pullbacks indicate a lack of conviction among sellers, and future upside breakout potential should such movements create a volume increase.
The MACD is close to the signal line, indicating neutral but strengthening momentum. The volume patterns indicate balanced trading activity with a gradual buyer advantage; hence, this combination supports steady trend build-up and not spikes in volatility or sharp reverses.
Bitcoin Price Prediction Daily
Bitcoin remains stable near $91,200, supported by strong buying interest and steady market sentiment. If the situation remains as it is, the Bitcoin price is forecasted to go up by 1.2%, reaching $92,300 within the next 24 hours. This increase would result from the volume trending up, the price line supported by a clean, strong EMA, and the absence of selling pressure spreading across the rest of the market.
Bitcoin Price Forecast Weekly
The trend for Bitcoin remains upward, as it trades above key EMAs, and the bulls maintain their grip on the market. It is thus envisaged that Bitcoin’s price will increase by 3.8% and that the $94,700 level will be reached within one week. Debt relief, investor sentiment, and strong institutional buying are reasons BTC could exceed the resistance level this week.
Bitcoin Price Prediction December 2025
Market structure and product adoption are two of the main reasons the price of Bitcoin will be 22% higher than it is now, reaching $111,500 by December 2025. Large inflows from institutional investors, low stock on exchanges, and clear global regulatory directives underpin the move upward, making BTC a potential winner for long-term price appreciation.
Bitcoin Price Prediction (January 2026)
Entering 2026, Bitcoin is expected to maintain strong momentum, driven by maturing market cycles and sustained demand. The price of Bitcoin is expected to increase by 28% to $117,000 by January 2026. Rising ETF participation, expanding global adoption, and post-halving supply compression position BTC for another significant upward push in early 2026.
Will BTC Price Rise Again in 2025?
Yes, Bitcoin has the potential to surge again if the key supports hold and the flows turn. BTC is above its 200-day EMA with RSI reset, so the setup favours stabilisation over breakdown unless $104K gives way. A sustained reclaim of $112.5–113.5K would be the first sign the up-move is resuming; from there, $120K → $123–125K becomes achievable again.
Bitcoin Price Prediction 2026
Bitcoin’s structure remains bullish moving into 2026. After clearing $121,000, BTC is on track to challenge higher resistance bands in the $125K–$130K range. MACD is strongly bullish, and all major EMAs are sloping upward. However, macro risks like policy shifts or geopolitical events could induce temporary corrections toward $110K–$100K. Despite this, the long-term outlook stays intact as long as BTC holds above $95,000. Expect a wide trading range between $105,000 and $135,000 in 2026, shaped by institutional inflows and broader risk sentiment.
Current Status: The live price of Bitcoin is $ 92,381.70, with a strong weekly gain evident on the CoinMarketCap chart. The price increase is a result of Fed rate cut optimism, ETF momentum, and bullish technicals. Traders need to monitor ETF flows and whale wallet activity post-announcement.
Market Performance: Bitcoin’s market condition has been very strong this week, with a steady upward trend and increased buying volume. Its market cap has risen, and trading volume remains healthy, indicating strong demand. Overall sentiment is bullish, with BTC poised to regain higher levels. The steady buying of BTC by traders and institutions indicates confidence, which, in turn, supports the coin’s ability to withstand recent volatility.
Price Analysis: Bitcoin is trading above its major EMA levels, indicating a clear upward trend. The price, hovering above $92k, shows that the level is well supported, while the MACD suggests the bulls are likely to continue their run, albeit gently. The consolidation phase after the recent highs is pointing to a well-defined market structure. Volume is at a normal level, which indicates that the buying pressure is under control and that there is less selling pressure, thus showing that the short-term trend is strong.
Bitcoin Price Prediction 2025: Based on current market structure and long-term strength, Bitcoin price prediction models suggest a potential 22% rise, targeting $111,500 by December 2025, driven by improving investor sentiment, macro-economic tailwinds, and continued supply scarcity during this projected timeframe. Other factors like increasing adoption, institutional inflows, and stronger liquidity conditions also plays a major role.
Future Outlook: Bitcoin (BTC) was under pressure in October 2025, first soaring to a new all-time high near $126,000, then falling back below $100,000 amid BTC ETF outflows and market consolidation. Although there is some short-term selling, strong institutional demand for Bitcoin remains. Additionally, analysts interpret the setback as a refreshing moment amid a healthy cycle. Given the stability in on-chain activity and Bitcoin’s growing hedging role, the long-term trend is towards growth. They are of the view that BTC can reach $130,000–$140,000 by the end of 2025 if there is a comeback in ETF buying and macro conditions are favorable.
Where will Bitcoin Price Head Next?
Bitcoin has been gradually climbing above all major EMAs, showing bullish strength. Moreover, the price action indicates healthy, abrupt higher lows, suggesting buyers’ control, as BTC is sustaining strength near $91,200 without significant downward pressure.
Strong support zones that hold firmly between $90,800 and $90,500 continue without deeper pullbacks. Regular buyer interest near these levels indicates accumulating demand and lays a strong foundation for the possible continuation of the short-term bullish trend.
BTC faces light resistance around $91,400-$91,600, with candles reflecting temporary indecision. However, repeated tests and controlled pullbacks indicate a lack of conviction among sellers, and future upside breakout potential should such movements create a volume increase.
The MACD is close to the signal line, indicating neutral but strengthening momentum. The volume patterns indicate balanced trading activity with a gradual buyer advantage; hence, this combination supports steady trend build-up and not spikes in volatility or sharp reverses.
Bitcoin Price Prediction Daily
Bitcoin remains stable near $91,200, supported by strong buying interest and steady market sentiment. If the situation remains as it is, the Bitcoin price is forecasted to go up by 1.2%, reaching $92,300 within the next 24 hours. This increase would result from the volume trending up, the price line supported by a clean, strong EMA, and the absence of selling pressure spreading across the rest of the market.
Bitcoin Price Forecast Weekly
The trend for Bitcoin remains upward, as it trades above key EMAs, and the bulls maintain their grip on the market. It is thus envisaged that Bitcoin’s price will increase by 3.8% and that the $94,700 level will be reached within one week. Debt relief, investor sentiment, and strong institutional buying are reasons BTC could exceed the resistance level this week.
Bitcoin Price Prediction December 2025
Market structure and product adoption are two of the main reasons the price of Bitcoin will be 22% higher than it is now, reaching $111,500 by December 2025. Large inflows from institutional investors, low stock on exchanges, and clear global regulatory directives underpin the move upward, making BTC a potential winner for long-term price appreciation.
Bitcoin Price Prediction (January 2026)
Entering 2026, Bitcoin is expected to maintain strong momentum, driven by maturing market cycles and sustained demand. The price of Bitcoin is expected to increase by 28% to $117,000 by January 2026. Rising ETF participation, expanding global adoption, and post-halving supply compression position BTC for another significant upward push in early 2026.
Will BTC Price Rise Again in 2025?
Yes, Bitcoin has the potential to surge again if the key supports hold and the flows turn. BTC is above its 200-day EMA with RSI reset, so the setup favours stabilisation over breakdown unless $104K gives way. A sustained reclaim of $112.5–113.5K would be the first sign the up-move is resuming; from there, $120K → $123–125K becomes achievable again.
Bitcoin Price Prediction 2026
Bitcoin’s structure remains bullish moving into 2026. After clearing $121,000, BTC is on track to challenge higher resistance bands in the $125K–$130K range. MACD is strongly bullish, and all major EMAs are sloping upward. However, macro risks like policy shifts or geopolitical events could induce temporary corrections toward $110K–$100K. Despite this, the long-term outlook stays intact as long as BTC holds above $95,000. Expect a wide trading range between $105,000 and $135,000 in 2026, shaped by institutional inflows and broader risk sentiment.
XRP Price Prediction: Resistance Rejection Signals Weakness Below $2.12
XRP price prediction has flipped decisively bearish after the token failed to break above the $2.12 resistance level during a brief surge earlier this week. Despite a daily gain of +1.23% pushing XRP to $2.08, the broader price action confirms sellers remain in control.
The rejection at $2.12 and the quick reversal from $2.17 point to distribution, not continuation. Over 189 million XRP tokens changed hands during the breakout attempt, far above average volumes, yet buyers lacked the conviction to hold the gains.
The elevated volume spike – up 45.53% to $3.79 billion – initially suggested institutional involvement, but the failure to sustain momentum shows it was tactical, not directional.
While XRP is currently trading at $2.08, a modest 1.23% gain over 24 hours, the broader price action suggests a more fragile outlook ahead – especially as Bitcoin Hyper and other major tokens attract capital inflows.
Technical Compression Tightens Between $2.083 and $2.17
The current chart structure reflects a tight compression zone between $2.083 and $2.17, with XRP trapped in a sideways channel that continues to reject upside pressure. Price briefly dipped to $2.083 before recovering in two sharp stages toward $2.17.
However, the inability to close above $2.12 – now acting as entrenched resistance – flipped sentiment bearish. Momentum oscillators show mild bullish divergence from the $2.083 low, but the declining recovery volume and heavy sell-side presence make this signal unreliable.
XRP must reclaim $2.12 with strong confirmation volume to regain any upward bias. Until that happens, every approach toward that level is likely to be met with aggressive selling. If price breaks below $2.09, the next downside targets are $2.05 and $2.00, both identified as near-term support zones.
Short-Term Forecast: $2.05 in Focus
The XRP price prediction for the next several days reflects continued bearish pressure. Market models project a decline toward $2.05 by December 13, with only a slight rebound expected by December 15. Day-by-day projections show:
•December 12: $2.06
•December 13–14: $2.05
•December 15: $2.08
This forecast represents a –1.73% dip from today’s rate and confirms that sellers are likely to remain dominant until the price can reclaim the $2.12–$2.17 zone.
From a market structure standpoint, the failure to build upside follow-through after piercing $2.12 invalidated the previous breakout thesis.
Instead of entering an expansion phase, XRP has entered a liquidity rebalancing zone where supply outpaces demand. That dynamic is consistent with prior controlled distribution phases observed during weak rallies in 2023.
Institutions Trading Volatility, Not Building Exposure
The surge in volume to 184% above the 24-hour moving average might typically signal the beginning of accumulation. However, order book analysis shows that large players are using volatility spikes to harvest liquidity, not build long-term positions.
Their footprint is visible, but their behavior leans toward profit extraction, not commitment. Until that dynamic shifts, every upward movement will struggle to find continuation. XRP’s inability to benefit from broader market strength adds to its short-term vulnerability.
With Bitcoin showing resilience near key resistance and Solana continuing to pull capital inflows, XRP remains a laggard – locked in a zone that lacks both narrative and momentum. That leaves it more exposed to rotation outflows as traders seek clearer upside opportunities.
The rejection at $2.12 and the quick reversal from $2.17 point to distribution, not continuation. Over 189 million XRP tokens changed hands during the breakout attempt, far above average volumes, yet buyers lacked the conviction to hold the gains.
The elevated volume spike – up 45.53% to $3.79 billion – initially suggested institutional involvement, but the failure to sustain momentum shows it was tactical, not directional.
While XRP is currently trading at $2.08, a modest 1.23% gain over 24 hours, the broader price action suggests a more fragile outlook ahead – especially as Bitcoin Hyper and other major tokens attract capital inflows.
Technical Compression Tightens Between $2.083 and $2.17
The current chart structure reflects a tight compression zone between $2.083 and $2.17, with XRP trapped in a sideways channel that continues to reject upside pressure. Price briefly dipped to $2.083 before recovering in two sharp stages toward $2.17.
However, the inability to close above $2.12 – now acting as entrenched resistance – flipped sentiment bearish. Momentum oscillators show mild bullish divergence from the $2.083 low, but the declining recovery volume and heavy sell-side presence make this signal unreliable.
XRP must reclaim $2.12 with strong confirmation volume to regain any upward bias. Until that happens, every approach toward that level is likely to be met with aggressive selling. If price breaks below $2.09, the next downside targets are $2.05 and $2.00, both identified as near-term support zones.
Short-Term Forecast: $2.05 in Focus
The XRP price prediction for the next several days reflects continued bearish pressure. Market models project a decline toward $2.05 by December 13, with only a slight rebound expected by December 15. Day-by-day projections show:
•December 12: $2.06
•December 13–14: $2.05
•December 15: $2.08
This forecast represents a –1.73% dip from today’s rate and confirms that sellers are likely to remain dominant until the price can reclaim the $2.12–$2.17 zone.
From a market structure standpoint, the failure to build upside follow-through after piercing $2.12 invalidated the previous breakout thesis.
Instead of entering an expansion phase, XRP has entered a liquidity rebalancing zone where supply outpaces demand. That dynamic is consistent with prior controlled distribution phases observed during weak rallies in 2023.
Institutions Trading Volatility, Not Building Exposure
The surge in volume to 184% above the 24-hour moving average might typically signal the beginning of accumulation. However, order book analysis shows that large players are using volatility spikes to harvest liquidity, not build long-term positions.
Their footprint is visible, but their behavior leans toward profit extraction, not commitment. Until that dynamic shifts, every upward movement will struggle to find continuation. XRP’s inability to benefit from broader market strength adds to its short-term vulnerability.
With Bitcoin showing resilience near key resistance and Solana continuing to pull capital inflows, XRP remains a laggard – locked in a zone that lacks both narrative and momentum. That leaves it more exposed to rotation outflows as traders seek clearer upside opportunities.
ASTER vs HYPE: How CZ’s DEX Token Became a Whale Magnet | Research
Whales are concentrating their buys in just two DEX tokens: Hyperliquid and Aster.
Aster (ASTER) is a newcomer to the market. The decentralized exchange (DEX) launched in September 2025 with the unofficial support of Changpeng Zhao, and that immediately shifted market sentiment. CZ had not backed new projects for quite some time, so Aster’s arrival came as a surprise.
The token reacted instantly. Its price climbed from $0.09 to $2.41, which is an increase of roughly 2580%. This rapid move earned Aster the nickname “CZ’s pet token.”
Things became even more interesting after that. Despite the wider market correction in October and November, ASTER has shown surprising resilience. The price occasionally drops below $1 but almost always returns to that level. So far, it has never revisited the $0.09 mark, which remains its all-time low. The chart may resemble early accumulation, although this is only one possible interpretation.
Aster’s rapid growth and CZ’s visible support sparked a new wave of discussion. The community revived the DEX narrative and started debating whether this segment could gain fresh momentum. At the same time, attention shifted toward larger players such as Hyperliquid (HYPE), which has combined the mechanics of centralized exchanges and decentralized finance in one model.
There are ongoing discussions that Changpeng Zhao may eventually want to replace Hyperliquid and position Aster as a new flagship DEX. This is speculative, and there are no clear signs that it is happening now, although CZ’s influence makes it impossible to rule out entirely.
In this Cryptonews research, we examine the behavior of large wallets in the DEX token segment. We look at whether major players are buying these assets, which projects attract the most capital, and whether Aster shows signs of concentrated interest from large holders. The analysis covers on-chain data from Nov. 1 to Dec. 5, 2025. Tokens were selected based on market capitalization from CoinGecko and exchange TVL from DeFiLlama. The dataset includes capital movement through large transactions on decentralized exchanges.
ASTER vs HYPE: Whales Deciding Where to Go
Looking at the broader picture, HYPE clearly leads ASTER in large buyer activity. Hyperliquid’s total buy volume stands at $16.6 billion, which is much higher than Aster’s $5.7 billion. The average purchase size is also larger. For HYPE, it is $5,480, and for ASTER, it is $1,620, which shows that whales generally spend more per transaction on Hyperliquid even though interest in Aster is growing.
Aster, however, overtakes Hyperliquid when it comes to the single largest transaction. The biggest ASTER purchase was made by wallet 0xf17d957f71b4c7670928db6804cdf061fbdb3bfd, which bought almost $191 million worth of tokens. This is the largest individual transaction in the entire dataset.
Among other projects, Aerodrome (AERO) stands out. Its total buy volume is $494.6 million, reflecting steady interest from traders. The average purchase size remains moderate, although the project continues to grow alongside rising activity in the Base ecosystem.
PancakeSwap (CAKE), the main DEX in the Binance ecosystem, also shows notable volumes. Its buy volume is $362.6 million. The price behavior of CAKE often resembles ASTER, including gradual recovery after pullbacks. This may reflect renewed interest and returning liquidity within the ecosystem.
Uniswap (UNI), the largest decentralized exchange by TVL, does not appear among the most accumulated tokens. Its buy volume is $216 million. Whales may view UNI as a more mature and less speculative asset that offers fewer opportunities for large short-term rotations.
Solana ecosystem DEXs such as Jupiter (JUP) and Raydium (RAY) rank near the bottom of the list. Their buy volume stands at $204.342 million and $142.223 million. This suggests that whale interest during this period was concentrated mainly around Hyperliquid, Aster, and several projects. Activity on the Solana side is present but significantly weaker.
We can also see that on decentralized exchanges, HYPE consistently leads by volume among DEX tokens. ASTER remains in second place, while the third position shifts between the remaining tokens depending on the day.
Where Whales Were Most Active
Data on the largest transactions shows that the peak of whale activity came in November. The most notable entries belong to Hyperliquid and Aster. HYPE recorded several purchases above $120 million. ASTER appeared slightly later but immediately delivered a record entry of almost $191 million, the largest single trade in the dataset.
Activity softened slightly in early December, although interest in these projects remained strong. On the chart, November clearly stands out as the most active month for large transactions, with Aster and Hyperliquid continuing to compete for whale attention.
Data analyzed by Cryptonews shows that Hyperliquid leads by the total sum of large buys. From Nov. 1 to Dec. 5, HYPE accumulated roughly $1.28 billion. ASTER attracted less in total volume but delivered significantly larger individual purchases, with about $520.54 million accumulated. This difference shows that Hyperliquid attracts a steady flow of large entries while Aster receives fewer but heavier transactions.
It is also notable that no other DEX tokens appear in the large transaction list. Only Hyperliquid and Aster dominate this segment.
What This Means for DEX Tokens
The analysis shows that Hyperliquid and Aster are the two main destinations for large DEX token capital. Both projects attract significant whale activity but the patterns differ. Hyperliquid receives consistent, stable inflows, while Aster stands out with rare but very large transactions.
Aster’s status as “CZ’s pet token” gives the project both advantages and risks. This type of backing helps support the price and can amplify upside moves, but it also creates the possibility of a sudden, sharp drop. The chart may resemble accumulation, although this should be interpreted with caution and with all scenarios in mind.
Aerodrome also shows accumulation, although not at the scale of HYPE or ASTER. The project is tightly connected to the Base ecosystem and may intersect with Coinbase’s strategic interests. On Dec. 17, Base and Coinbase are expected to announce something important, and this could increase attention toward AERO and the broader ecosystem around it.
Disclaimer: Crypto is a high-risk asset class. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. You could lose all of your capital.
Aster (ASTER) is a newcomer to the market. The decentralized exchange (DEX) launched in September 2025 with the unofficial support of Changpeng Zhao, and that immediately shifted market sentiment. CZ had not backed new projects for quite some time, so Aster’s arrival came as a surprise.
The token reacted instantly. Its price climbed from $0.09 to $2.41, which is an increase of roughly 2580%. This rapid move earned Aster the nickname “CZ’s pet token.”
Things became even more interesting after that. Despite the wider market correction in October and November, ASTER has shown surprising resilience. The price occasionally drops below $1 but almost always returns to that level. So far, it has never revisited the $0.09 mark, which remains its all-time low. The chart may resemble early accumulation, although this is only one possible interpretation.
Aster’s rapid growth and CZ’s visible support sparked a new wave of discussion. The community revived the DEX narrative and started debating whether this segment could gain fresh momentum. At the same time, attention shifted toward larger players such as Hyperliquid (HYPE), which has combined the mechanics of centralized exchanges and decentralized finance in one model.
There are ongoing discussions that Changpeng Zhao may eventually want to replace Hyperliquid and position Aster as a new flagship DEX. This is speculative, and there are no clear signs that it is happening now, although CZ’s influence makes it impossible to rule out entirely.
In this Cryptonews research, we examine the behavior of large wallets in the DEX token segment. We look at whether major players are buying these assets, which projects attract the most capital, and whether Aster shows signs of concentrated interest from large holders. The analysis covers on-chain data from Nov. 1 to Dec. 5, 2025. Tokens were selected based on market capitalization from CoinGecko and exchange TVL from DeFiLlama. The dataset includes capital movement through large transactions on decentralized exchanges.
ASTER vs HYPE: Whales Deciding Where to Go
Looking at the broader picture, HYPE clearly leads ASTER in large buyer activity. Hyperliquid’s total buy volume stands at $16.6 billion, which is much higher than Aster’s $5.7 billion. The average purchase size is also larger. For HYPE, it is $5,480, and for ASTER, it is $1,620, which shows that whales generally spend more per transaction on Hyperliquid even though interest in Aster is growing.
Aster, however, overtakes Hyperliquid when it comes to the single largest transaction. The biggest ASTER purchase was made by wallet 0xf17d957f71b4c7670928db6804cdf061fbdb3bfd, which bought almost $191 million worth of tokens. This is the largest individual transaction in the entire dataset.
Among other projects, Aerodrome (AERO) stands out. Its total buy volume is $494.6 million, reflecting steady interest from traders. The average purchase size remains moderate, although the project continues to grow alongside rising activity in the Base ecosystem.
PancakeSwap (CAKE), the main DEX in the Binance ecosystem, also shows notable volumes. Its buy volume is $362.6 million. The price behavior of CAKE often resembles ASTER, including gradual recovery after pullbacks. This may reflect renewed interest and returning liquidity within the ecosystem.
Uniswap (UNI), the largest decentralized exchange by TVL, does not appear among the most accumulated tokens. Its buy volume is $216 million. Whales may view UNI as a more mature and less speculative asset that offers fewer opportunities for large short-term rotations.
Solana ecosystem DEXs such as Jupiter (JUP) and Raydium (RAY) rank near the bottom of the list. Their buy volume stands at $204.342 million and $142.223 million. This suggests that whale interest during this period was concentrated mainly around Hyperliquid, Aster, and several projects. Activity on the Solana side is present but significantly weaker.
We can also see that on decentralized exchanges, HYPE consistently leads by volume among DEX tokens. ASTER remains in second place, while the third position shifts between the remaining tokens depending on the day.
Where Whales Were Most Active
Data on the largest transactions shows that the peak of whale activity came in November. The most notable entries belong to Hyperliquid and Aster. HYPE recorded several purchases above $120 million. ASTER appeared slightly later but immediately delivered a record entry of almost $191 million, the largest single trade in the dataset.
Activity softened slightly in early December, although interest in these projects remained strong. On the chart, November clearly stands out as the most active month for large transactions, with Aster and Hyperliquid continuing to compete for whale attention.
Data analyzed by Cryptonews shows that Hyperliquid leads by the total sum of large buys. From Nov. 1 to Dec. 5, HYPE accumulated roughly $1.28 billion. ASTER attracted less in total volume but delivered significantly larger individual purchases, with about $520.54 million accumulated. This difference shows that Hyperliquid attracts a steady flow of large entries while Aster receives fewer but heavier transactions.
It is also notable that no other DEX tokens appear in the large transaction list. Only Hyperliquid and Aster dominate this segment.
What This Means for DEX Tokens
The analysis shows that Hyperliquid and Aster are the two main destinations for large DEX token capital. Both projects attract significant whale activity but the patterns differ. Hyperliquid receives consistent, stable inflows, while Aster stands out with rare but very large transactions.
Aster’s status as “CZ’s pet token” gives the project both advantages and risks. This type of backing helps support the price and can amplify upside moves, but it also creates the possibility of a sudden, sharp drop. The chart may resemble accumulation, although this should be interpreted with caution and with all scenarios in mind.
Aerodrome also shows accumulation, although not at the scale of HYPE or ASTER. The project is tightly connected to the Base ecosystem and may intersect with Coinbase’s strategic interests. On Dec. 17, Base and Coinbase are expected to announce something important, and this could increase attention toward AERO and the broader ecosystem around it.
Disclaimer: Crypto is a high-risk asset class. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. You could lose all of your capital.
Buterin to Musk: Turning X Into a Weaponized Hate Platform Could Backfire on Free Speech
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has issued a sharp warning to Elon Musk, expressing concern that X’s evolution from a platform championing free speech to a tool for organizing targeted hate could trigger a global backlash and ultimately undermine the very freedoms Musk claims to defend.
In a series of posts, Buterin said that public discourse around Europe — including from individuals he previously viewed as “interesting and sophisticated” — has grown “unhinged,” fuelled by increasingly aggressive online narratives.
While he acknowledged legitimate criticisms of the EU, citing GDPR “clickthroughs” and “Chat Control” as policies needing reform, Buterin cautioned that the tone and coordination of these attacks signal something more dangerous.
Addressing Musk directly, Buterin wrote that turning X into “a global totem pole for Free Speech, and then turning it into a death star laser for coordinated hate sessions” is “harmful for the cause of free speech.”
He added that he is worried about the long-term consequences, warning of “huge backlashes against values I hold dear” emerging within a few years if the platform continues allowing escalation rather than debate.
The Debate Over Europe: Too Much Unity or Not Enough?
The comments triggered a wider conversation on X about Europe’s geopolitical role. One user argued that those advocating for a weakened Europe misunderstand global power dynamics, claiming international actors “drool” over the idea of dissolving EU unity and fear it may eventually federalize.
Buterin responded that he supports the idea of the EU — a shared experiment delivering the benefits of a superstate without the aggressive posture of a world power — but emphasized the union remains “a work in progress.” According to him, the balance is off: not enough unity in foreign policy and too much unity where it becomes bureaucracy and surveillance.
“If the experiment can be improved and thrives,” Buterin wrote, “it’s a model that could set a really good example for the world.”
The Free Speech Paradox Tech Platforms Now Face
Buterin’s intervention joins a growing list of voices wrestling with the same tension: Where is the line between free expression and coordinated harm? And — perhaps more importantly — who draws that line?
Musk has positioned X as a refuge against censorship after acquiring the platform in 2022. But critics argue that what began as a defense of open expression has enabled harassment networks, misinformation, and political agitation at scale.
Buterin’s warning reframes the debate not as left vs. right, or pro-EU vs. anti-EU, but as a structural risk. Empowering free speech while avoiding the weaponization of online mobs may determine whether social platforms protect democratic values — or destabilize them.
In a series of posts, Buterin said that public discourse around Europe — including from individuals he previously viewed as “interesting and sophisticated” — has grown “unhinged,” fuelled by increasingly aggressive online narratives.
While he acknowledged legitimate criticisms of the EU, citing GDPR “clickthroughs” and “Chat Control” as policies needing reform, Buterin cautioned that the tone and coordination of these attacks signal something more dangerous.
Addressing Musk directly, Buterin wrote that turning X into “a global totem pole for Free Speech, and then turning it into a death star laser for coordinated hate sessions” is “harmful for the cause of free speech.”
He added that he is worried about the long-term consequences, warning of “huge backlashes against values I hold dear” emerging within a few years if the platform continues allowing escalation rather than debate.
The Debate Over Europe: Too Much Unity or Not Enough?
The comments triggered a wider conversation on X about Europe’s geopolitical role. One user argued that those advocating for a weakened Europe misunderstand global power dynamics, claiming international actors “drool” over the idea of dissolving EU unity and fear it may eventually federalize.
Buterin responded that he supports the idea of the EU — a shared experiment delivering the benefits of a superstate without the aggressive posture of a world power — but emphasized the union remains “a work in progress.” According to him, the balance is off: not enough unity in foreign policy and too much unity where it becomes bureaucracy and surveillance.
“If the experiment can be improved and thrives,” Buterin wrote, “it’s a model that could set a really good example for the world.”
The Free Speech Paradox Tech Platforms Now Face
Buterin’s intervention joins a growing list of voices wrestling with the same tension: Where is the line between free expression and coordinated harm? And — perhaps more importantly — who draws that line?
Musk has positioned X as a refuge against censorship after acquiring the platform in 2022. But critics argue that what began as a defense of open expression has enabled harassment networks, misinformation, and political agitation at scale.
Buterin’s warning reframes the debate not as left vs. right, or pro-EU vs. anti-EU, but as a structural risk. Empowering free speech while avoiding the weaponization of online mobs may determine whether social platforms protect democratic values — or destabilize them.
XRP News Today: Bullish ETF Flows Offset Fed Volatility Risks
Key Points:
•XRP-spot ETFs extend a 16-day inflow streak, strengthening demand as legislative momentum lifts market sentiment.
•XRP ETF inflows near $1B since launch, outperforming BTC ETFs as institutional interest accelerates.
•Technical signals show XRP below key EMAs, yet rising ETF flows and policy optimism point to targets at $2.35–$2.5.
The XRP-spot ETF market extends its inflow streak to 16 consecutive sessions, tilting the supply-demand balance firmly in XRP’s favor. Hopes for crypto-friendly legislation added to the positive sentiment as reports broke of bipartisan meetings between Senators discussing the Market Structure Bill.
Positive developments in the crypto space and strong institutional demand for spot ETFs coincided with expectations of a December Fed rate cut, lifting sentiment. XRP extended its winning streak to three sessions on Tuesday, December 9, climbing to a session high of $2.1778 before easing back.
Given the prospects of a Fed rate cut, inflows into XRP-spot ETFs, and legislative developments, the short- to medium-term price outlook remains bullish.
Below, I will explore the key drivers behind recent price trends, the medium-term (4-8 week) outlook, and the key technical levels traders should watch.
XRP-Spot ETF Inflows Outperform BTC-Spot ETFs
The US XRP-spot ETF market reported net inflows of $38.04 million on Monday, December 8, snapping four days of softer inflows. Monday’s inflows took total net inflows since launch to $935.39 million, edging closer to the $1 billion mark. Franklin XRP ETF (XRPZ) led the way, with net inflows of $31.7 million, its highest since $62.59 million in inflows on day one of trading. Flows for Tuesday, December 9, are expected later today.
Notably, the US XRP-spot ETF market outperformed the US BTC-spot ETF market, which reported net outflows of $60.4 million. Flow trends suggested a potential XRP-BTC decoupling. The US BTC-spot ETF market reported net outflows of $1.79 billion since November 14, Canary XRP ETF’s (XRPC) first day of trading, contrasting sharply with demand for XRP-spot ETFs.
Crypto journalist Paul Barron commented on the robust demand for XRP-spot ETFs, stating:
Crucially, the US XRP-spot ETF market comprises four ETFs, while the BTC-spot and ETH-spot ETF markets have eleven and nine ETFs, respectively, and no BlackRock iShares XRP Trust.
Barron referred to Vanguard Group’s U-turn regarding crypto, allowing brokerage clients to invest in crypto-spot ETFs.
Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund Launches on Eve of Fed Interest Rate Decision
Meanwhile, XRP could see increased demand, following the launch of the Bitwise 10 Index Crypto Fund on Tuesday, December 9. Crypto in America host and journalist Eleanor Terret commented on the launch, stating:
Barron referred to Vanguard Group’s U-turn regarding crypto, allowing brokerage clients to invest in crypto-spot ETFs.
Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund Launches on Eve of Fed Interest Rate Decision
Meanwhile, XRP could see increased demand, following the launch of the Bitwise 10 Index Crypto Fund on Tuesday, December 9. Crypto in America host and journalist Eleanor Terret commented on the launch, stating:
The SEC approved the Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund (BITW) conversion into an ETF in July, but also issued a stay order, preventing the ETF’s launch.
Crucially, the launch coincided with FOMC members meeting for their last monetary policy decision of the year. Market bets on a December Fed rate cut have fueled demand for BTC and the broader market.
For context, the chances of a December Fed rate cut had stood at 91.7% in October, sending XRP to a high of $2.6972. However, fading bets on a December cut sent XRP to a November 21 low of $1.8239. A Fed pivot on November 21 and revived bets on a December move boosted demand for XRP.
Bullish Medium-Term Outlook Hinged on the Fed and Spot ETF Flows
On Wednesday, December 10, the FOMC interest rate decision, Economic Projections, and dot plot will influence risk appetite. While traders expect a 25-basis-point rate cut, uncertainty about the Fed rate path through 2026 exposes XRP to heightened near-term price volatility.
The FOMC dot plot will likely be crucial as traders speculate about the number of Fed rate cuts in the year ahead.
A hawkish Fed rate cut, lowering rates by 25 basis points and projecting one further cut in 2026, would likely weigh on risk assets. Nevertheless, several tailwinds will likely limit the Fed’s effect on XRP’s short- to medium-term price outlook. These include:
XRP-spot ETF launches and a broadening crypto investor base.
The progress of crypto-friendly legislation, including the Market Structure Bill.
OCC grants Ripple a US-chartered banking license.
In my view, these potential tailwinds support a near-term (1-4 weeks) move to $2.35 and a medium-term (4-8 weeks) rise toward $2.5.
Downside Risks to Bullish Outlook
While the short- to medium-term outlook remains bullish, several scenarios may derail the bullish outlook. These include:
The Fed keeps interest rates unchanged, a low-probability event.
The Bank of Japan signals further rate hikes in 2026, triggering a yen carry trade unwind and market disruption.
The MSCI delists digital asset treasury companies (DATs). Delistings could dampen demand for XRP as a treasury reserve asset.
US Senate opposes the Market Structure Bill.
OCC rejects Ripple’s application for a US-chartered banking license.
XRP-spot ETFs see heavy outflows.
These scenarios would likely push XRP below $2, bringing the November low of $1.82 into play.
However, in my opinion, strong demand for XRP-spot ETFs, hopes for crypto-friendly legislation, a broadening investor base, and a Fed rate cut will likely support a longer-term move toward $3.
In summary, the short-term outlook remains cautiously bullish, while the medium- to longer-term outlook is constructive.
Financial Analysis
Technical Outlook: EMAs Signal Caution
XRP rose 1.64% on Tuesday, December 9, following the previous day’s 1.35% gain, closing at $2.1073. The token underperformed the broader crypto market, which rallied 2.44%.
Despite a three-day winning streak, XRP remained below the 50-day and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), indicating a bearish bias. However, fundamentals are shifting from the technical trend, supporting a bullish outlook.
Key technical levels to watch include: Support levels: $2, $1.9112, and $1.8239
50-day EMA resistance: $2.2620.
200-day EMA resistance: $2.4710.
Resistance levels: $2.2, $2.35, $2.5, $2.62, $2.8, $3.0, and $3.66.
Holding above the $2.0 psychological support level would enable the bulls to target the 50-day EMA. A sustained break above the 50-day EMA would pave the way to the $2.35 resistance level. Significantly, a break above the 50-day EMA would signal a near-term bullish trend reversal. A bullish trend reversal would support a medium-term (4-8 weeks) rise to the 200-day EMA and the $2.5 level.
Fundamental Indicators: Corporate Signals, Policy Decisions
Near-term price drivers include:
XRP-spot ETF daily flows.
Blue-chip companies’ views on XRP as a treasury reserve asset.
Regulatory milestones: Ripple’s application for a US-chartered bank license, the progress of the Market Structure Bill on Capitol Hill.
MSCI’s decision on DAT listings.
The Fed and the BoJ’s interest rate decisions and forward guidance.
Bullish Structure: What Happens if $2.0 Holds?
Holding above the lower trendline and $2.0 would pave the way to the upper trendline. A sustained move through the upper trendline would align with the medium-term (4–8 weeks) target of $2.5 and longer-term (8–12 weeks) target of $3.0.
However, a move below $1.8239 would invalidate the medium-term bullish structure.
Outlook: Breaking $2.2 Resistance Key to Short-Term Outlook
XRP-spot ETFs will face their first real test on Wednesday, December 10, with the Fed potentially influencing institutional demand. A hawkish Fed interest rate cut and resilient inflows into XRP-spot ETFs would set the stage for a breakout toward $3.0.
However, legislative developments also require consideration, as Senators discuss the Market Structure Bill.
In summary, strong XRP-spot ETF inflows and a dovish Fed rate cut support a short-term move to $2.35. Progress toward crypto-friendly regulations and increasing XRP utility would align with the medium-term (4–8 weeks) target of $2.5 and a longer-term (8–12 weeks) target of $3.0.
#BTCVSGOLD #TrumpTariffs #BinanceBlockchainWeek
•XRP-spot ETFs extend a 16-day inflow streak, strengthening demand as legislative momentum lifts market sentiment.
•XRP ETF inflows near $1B since launch, outperforming BTC ETFs as institutional interest accelerates.
•Technical signals show XRP below key EMAs, yet rising ETF flows and policy optimism point to targets at $2.35–$2.5.
The XRP-spot ETF market extends its inflow streak to 16 consecutive sessions, tilting the supply-demand balance firmly in XRP’s favor. Hopes for crypto-friendly legislation added to the positive sentiment as reports broke of bipartisan meetings between Senators discussing the Market Structure Bill.
Positive developments in the crypto space and strong institutional demand for spot ETFs coincided with expectations of a December Fed rate cut, lifting sentiment. XRP extended its winning streak to three sessions on Tuesday, December 9, climbing to a session high of $2.1778 before easing back.
Given the prospects of a Fed rate cut, inflows into XRP-spot ETFs, and legislative developments, the short- to medium-term price outlook remains bullish.
Below, I will explore the key drivers behind recent price trends, the medium-term (4-8 week) outlook, and the key technical levels traders should watch.
XRP-Spot ETF Inflows Outperform BTC-Spot ETFs
The US XRP-spot ETF market reported net inflows of $38.04 million on Monday, December 8, snapping four days of softer inflows. Monday’s inflows took total net inflows since launch to $935.39 million, edging closer to the $1 billion mark. Franklin XRP ETF (XRPZ) led the way, with net inflows of $31.7 million, its highest since $62.59 million in inflows on day one of trading. Flows for Tuesday, December 9, are expected later today.
Notably, the US XRP-spot ETF market outperformed the US BTC-spot ETF market, which reported net outflows of $60.4 million. Flow trends suggested a potential XRP-BTC decoupling. The US BTC-spot ETF market reported net outflows of $1.79 billion since November 14, Canary XRP ETF’s (XRPC) first day of trading, contrasting sharply with demand for XRP-spot ETFs.
Crypto journalist Paul Barron commented on the robust demand for XRP-spot ETFs, stating:
Crucially, the US XRP-spot ETF market comprises four ETFs, while the BTC-spot and ETH-spot ETF markets have eleven and nine ETFs, respectively, and no BlackRock iShares XRP Trust.
Barron referred to Vanguard Group’s U-turn regarding crypto, allowing brokerage clients to invest in crypto-spot ETFs.
Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund Launches on Eve of Fed Interest Rate Decision
Meanwhile, XRP could see increased demand, following the launch of the Bitwise 10 Index Crypto Fund on Tuesday, December 9. Crypto in America host and journalist Eleanor Terret commented on the launch, stating:
Barron referred to Vanguard Group’s U-turn regarding crypto, allowing brokerage clients to invest in crypto-spot ETFs.
Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund Launches on Eve of Fed Interest Rate Decision
Meanwhile, XRP could see increased demand, following the launch of the Bitwise 10 Index Crypto Fund on Tuesday, December 9. Crypto in America host and journalist Eleanor Terret commented on the launch, stating:
The SEC approved the Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund (BITW) conversion into an ETF in July, but also issued a stay order, preventing the ETF’s launch.
Crucially, the launch coincided with FOMC members meeting for their last monetary policy decision of the year. Market bets on a December Fed rate cut have fueled demand for BTC and the broader market.
For context, the chances of a December Fed rate cut had stood at 91.7% in October, sending XRP to a high of $2.6972. However, fading bets on a December cut sent XRP to a November 21 low of $1.8239. A Fed pivot on November 21 and revived bets on a December move boosted demand for XRP.
Bullish Medium-Term Outlook Hinged on the Fed and Spot ETF Flows
On Wednesday, December 10, the FOMC interest rate decision, Economic Projections, and dot plot will influence risk appetite. While traders expect a 25-basis-point rate cut, uncertainty about the Fed rate path through 2026 exposes XRP to heightened near-term price volatility.
The FOMC dot plot will likely be crucial as traders speculate about the number of Fed rate cuts in the year ahead.
A hawkish Fed rate cut, lowering rates by 25 basis points and projecting one further cut in 2026, would likely weigh on risk assets. Nevertheless, several tailwinds will likely limit the Fed’s effect on XRP’s short- to medium-term price outlook. These include:
XRP-spot ETF launches and a broadening crypto investor base.
The progress of crypto-friendly legislation, including the Market Structure Bill.
OCC grants Ripple a US-chartered banking license.
In my view, these potential tailwinds support a near-term (1-4 weeks) move to $2.35 and a medium-term (4-8 weeks) rise toward $2.5.
Downside Risks to Bullish Outlook
While the short- to medium-term outlook remains bullish, several scenarios may derail the bullish outlook. These include:
The Fed keeps interest rates unchanged, a low-probability event.
The Bank of Japan signals further rate hikes in 2026, triggering a yen carry trade unwind and market disruption.
The MSCI delists digital asset treasury companies (DATs). Delistings could dampen demand for XRP as a treasury reserve asset.
US Senate opposes the Market Structure Bill.
OCC rejects Ripple’s application for a US-chartered banking license.
XRP-spot ETFs see heavy outflows.
These scenarios would likely push XRP below $2, bringing the November low of $1.82 into play.
However, in my opinion, strong demand for XRP-spot ETFs, hopes for crypto-friendly legislation, a broadening investor base, and a Fed rate cut will likely support a longer-term move toward $3.
In summary, the short-term outlook remains cautiously bullish, while the medium- to longer-term outlook is constructive.
Financial Analysis
Technical Outlook: EMAs Signal Caution
XRP rose 1.64% on Tuesday, December 9, following the previous day’s 1.35% gain, closing at $2.1073. The token underperformed the broader crypto market, which rallied 2.44%.
Despite a three-day winning streak, XRP remained below the 50-day and 200-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs), indicating a bearish bias. However, fundamentals are shifting from the technical trend, supporting a bullish outlook.
Key technical levels to watch include: Support levels: $2, $1.9112, and $1.8239
50-day EMA resistance: $2.2620.
200-day EMA resistance: $2.4710.
Resistance levels: $2.2, $2.35, $2.5, $2.62, $2.8, $3.0, and $3.66.
Holding above the $2.0 psychological support level would enable the bulls to target the 50-day EMA. A sustained break above the 50-day EMA would pave the way to the $2.35 resistance level. Significantly, a break above the 50-day EMA would signal a near-term bullish trend reversal. A bullish trend reversal would support a medium-term (4-8 weeks) rise to the 200-day EMA and the $2.5 level.
Fundamental Indicators: Corporate Signals, Policy Decisions
Near-term price drivers include:
XRP-spot ETF daily flows.
Blue-chip companies’ views on XRP as a treasury reserve asset.
Regulatory milestones: Ripple’s application for a US-chartered bank license, the progress of the Market Structure Bill on Capitol Hill.
MSCI’s decision on DAT listings.
The Fed and the BoJ’s interest rate decisions and forward guidance.
Bullish Structure: What Happens if $2.0 Holds?
Holding above the lower trendline and $2.0 would pave the way to the upper trendline. A sustained move through the upper trendline would align with the medium-term (4–8 weeks) target of $2.5 and longer-term (8–12 weeks) target of $3.0.
However, a move below $1.8239 would invalidate the medium-term bullish structure.
Outlook: Breaking $2.2 Resistance Key to Short-Term Outlook
XRP-spot ETFs will face their first real test on Wednesday, December 10, with the Fed potentially influencing institutional demand. A hawkish Fed interest rate cut and resilient inflows into XRP-spot ETFs would set the stage for a breakout toward $3.0.
However, legislative developments also require consideration, as Senators discuss the Market Structure Bill.
In summary, strong XRP-spot ETF inflows and a dovish Fed rate cut support a short-term move to $2.35. Progress toward crypto-friendly regulations and increasing XRP utility would align with the medium-term (4–8 weeks) target of $2.5 and a longer-term (8–12 weeks) target of $3.0.
#BTCVSGOLD #TrumpTariffs #BinanceBlockchainWeek
More Details On The Wall Street $500 Million Investment In XRP
Ripple’s most recent funding round has become one of the biggest crypto-related deals of the year, mainly because of who joined in and how the deal was structured.
According to details shared in Bloomberg’s report, major Wall Street names, including Citadel Securities, Fortress Investment Group, Brevan Howard, and Galaxy Digital, put $500 million into Ripple, giving the company a valuation of around $40 billion. This instantly turned the round into one of the strongest signs yet that traditional finance is taking a serious interest in the XRP ecosystem.
How Wall Street Structured The Deal To Protect Themselves
In early November 2025, Ripple closed a major private equity round that injected $500 million into the company, resulting in a valuation of roughly $40 billion. However, new details show that the most surprising part of the transaction is not the amount raised but the agreement behind it. Bloomberg reports that investors in this round did not simply buy Ripple shares and hope the value rises. Instead, they secured built-in protections that guarantee them profits later.
They were given the right to sell their shares back to Ripple in three to four years at a 10% yearly return, unless Ripple goes public before then. At that rate, Ripple would need to pay roughly $732 million to buy the shares back after four years. That means even if Ripple’s valuation stays flat or drops, the investors still walk away with guaranteed gains.
However, if Ripple decides to buy the shares back earlier, the investors get an even higher payout of around 25% annualized rate. A liquidation preference was also included, meaning these investors get paid first if anything goes wrong. Ripple noted in its announcement of the investment round that it has repurchased more than 25% of its outstanding shares over the past few years.
Why The Deal Is Really A Bet On XRP
Even though the investors bought equity in Ripple, not XRP itself, most of Ripple’s value still comes from its massive XRP holdings. According to Bloomberg, two of the funds that put in money noted that at least 90% of Ripple’s net value is tied to XRP. As of July 2025, Ripple held around $124 billion worth of XRP, although most of its XRP holdings are held in escrow.
This means the investment round, in reality, is also a bet on XRP’s long-term relevance and future market strength. If the price of XRP grows, Ripple benefits, and so do the investors who now hold equity backed by a company sitting on one of the world’s largest digital asset reserves.
However, the $500 million investment does show that serious investors believe Ripple will continue growing, but just that Ripple’s success is still directly linked to the XRP price.
#BTCVSGOLD
According to details shared in Bloomberg’s report, major Wall Street names, including Citadel Securities, Fortress Investment Group, Brevan Howard, and Galaxy Digital, put $500 million into Ripple, giving the company a valuation of around $40 billion. This instantly turned the round into one of the strongest signs yet that traditional finance is taking a serious interest in the XRP ecosystem.
How Wall Street Structured The Deal To Protect Themselves
In early November 2025, Ripple closed a major private equity round that injected $500 million into the company, resulting in a valuation of roughly $40 billion. However, new details show that the most surprising part of the transaction is not the amount raised but the agreement behind it. Bloomberg reports that investors in this round did not simply buy Ripple shares and hope the value rises. Instead, they secured built-in protections that guarantee them profits later.
They were given the right to sell their shares back to Ripple in three to four years at a 10% yearly return, unless Ripple goes public before then. At that rate, Ripple would need to pay roughly $732 million to buy the shares back after four years. That means even if Ripple’s valuation stays flat or drops, the investors still walk away with guaranteed gains.
However, if Ripple decides to buy the shares back earlier, the investors get an even higher payout of around 25% annualized rate. A liquidation preference was also included, meaning these investors get paid first if anything goes wrong. Ripple noted in its announcement of the investment round that it has repurchased more than 25% of its outstanding shares over the past few years.
Why The Deal Is Really A Bet On XRP
Even though the investors bought equity in Ripple, not XRP itself, most of Ripple’s value still comes from its massive XRP holdings. According to Bloomberg, two of the funds that put in money noted that at least 90% of Ripple’s net value is tied to XRP. As of July 2025, Ripple held around $124 billion worth of XRP, although most of its XRP holdings are held in escrow.
This means the investment round, in reality, is also a bet on XRP’s long-term relevance and future market strength. If the price of XRP grows, Ripple benefits, and so do the investors who now hold equity backed by a company sitting on one of the world’s largest digital asset reserves.
However, the $500 million investment does show that serious investors believe Ripple will continue growing, but just that Ripple’s success is still directly linked to the XRP price.
#BTCVSGOLD
Crypto market adds $150 billion in 24 hours: Why is Bitcoin up today?
Crypto market recovers backed by adoption news from traditional finance converging with macro easing expectations and forced liquidations of leveraged shorts.
Bitcoin (BTC) trades at $92,900, up 4% on the day, as $150 billion flowed into the total crypto market cap, a 3% gain as of press time.
The price briefly touched $94,600 before pulling back, capping a session that saw adoption news from traditional finance converge with macro easing expectations and forced liquidations of leveraged shorts.
PNC, the eighth-largest US commercial bank by assets, launched direct spot Bitcoin trading for eligible clients through its proprietary platform. The service runs on Coinbase’s Crypto-as-a-Service infrastructure, extending crypto access to a client base that previously lacked on-platform exposure.
Banks entering the spot market through white-labeled solutions validate crypto as an asset class for risk-averse allocators who treat institution-backed custody and regulatory clarity as prerequisites for participation.
The macro backdrop added fuel. Markets are pricing in a Fed rate cut at this week’s meeting, easing anxiety over financial conditions across risk assets.
Rate cuts lower the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets, making Bitcoin and other crypto more attractive relative to cash and short-duration bonds.
The anticipation drove bids across the board. Ethereum rose 8.7% to $3,325.99, Solana climbed 5.6% to $139.64, and Cardano surged 13.4% to $0.473.
XRP added 3.1% to $2.1080, BNB gained 1.35% to $606.60, and Dogecoin jumped 7.6% to $0.1492 in the same period.
Liquidations amplified the move
On-tape mechanics accelerated the rally. Bitcoin pushed through the $89,000-$92,000 range that had capped prices for the prior week, triggering stop-losses and forced liquidations for leveraged shorts.
Out of $418 million liquidated in the past 24 hours, $304.3 million consisted of short positions, according to CoinGlass data.
The cascade began as the price broke above $90,000, where open interest data showed a concentration of bearish bets. As those positions unwound, dealers and market makers bought back hedges, pushing the price higher and triggering the next tier of stops.
Mechanical buying pushed Bitcoin to the mid-$94,000 area before swing traders’ profit-taking capped the move.
The combination of institutional adoption, Fed rate-cut expectations, and short liquidations created a three-factor tailwind that lifted the broader market.
Altcoins outperformed Bitcoin on a percentage basis, suggesting a return of risk appetite to the speculative corners of crypto, at least for now, as dovish monetary policy and bank participation reduce the perceived downside.
Bitcoin (BTC) trades at $92,900, up 4% on the day, as $150 billion flowed into the total crypto market cap, a 3% gain as of press time.
The price briefly touched $94,600 before pulling back, capping a session that saw adoption news from traditional finance converge with macro easing expectations and forced liquidations of leveraged shorts.
PNC, the eighth-largest US commercial bank by assets, launched direct spot Bitcoin trading for eligible clients through its proprietary platform. The service runs on Coinbase’s Crypto-as-a-Service infrastructure, extending crypto access to a client base that previously lacked on-platform exposure.
Banks entering the spot market through white-labeled solutions validate crypto as an asset class for risk-averse allocators who treat institution-backed custody and regulatory clarity as prerequisites for participation.
The macro backdrop added fuel. Markets are pricing in a Fed rate cut at this week’s meeting, easing anxiety over financial conditions across risk assets.
Rate cuts lower the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets, making Bitcoin and other crypto more attractive relative to cash and short-duration bonds.
The anticipation drove bids across the board. Ethereum rose 8.7% to $3,325.99, Solana climbed 5.6% to $139.64, and Cardano surged 13.4% to $0.473.
XRP added 3.1% to $2.1080, BNB gained 1.35% to $606.60, and Dogecoin jumped 7.6% to $0.1492 in the same period.
Liquidations amplified the move
On-tape mechanics accelerated the rally. Bitcoin pushed through the $89,000-$92,000 range that had capped prices for the prior week, triggering stop-losses and forced liquidations for leveraged shorts.
Out of $418 million liquidated in the past 24 hours, $304.3 million consisted of short positions, according to CoinGlass data.
The cascade began as the price broke above $90,000, where open interest data showed a concentration of bearish bets. As those positions unwound, dealers and market makers bought back hedges, pushing the price higher and triggering the next tier of stops.
Mechanical buying pushed Bitcoin to the mid-$94,000 area before swing traders’ profit-taking capped the move.
The combination of institutional adoption, Fed rate-cut expectations, and short liquidations created a three-factor tailwind that lifted the broader market.
Altcoins outperformed Bitcoin on a percentage basis, suggesting a return of risk appetite to the speculative corners of crypto, at least for now, as dovish monetary policy and bank participation reduce the perceived downside.
45% of Gen Z want crypto for Christmas, but this gift comes with risk. Here are 2 safer alternatives
They used to want things like sneakers, gadgets and gift cards. But this year, all that Gen Z seems to want for Christmas is crypto.
According to a recent survey, 45% of Gen Z say they would love to unwrap cryptocurrency gifts on Christmas morning, which is nearly double the rate of all Americans at 28% (1).
With Bitcoin prices dipping to around $92,000 after peaking at more than $125,000 back in October 2025 (2), many young people seem to think this is the right time to buy into this asset class. Plus, the Trump administration’s pro-crypto attitude, with the president signing an executive order designed to support the U.S. crypto industry (3), seems to be alluring to young investors.
Meanwhile, many in Gen Z report tight budgets in today’s economy. In fact, a report from January 2025 found that 69% of Gen Z live paycheck to paycheck (4). With that in mind, getting crypto as a gift — as opposed to buying it themselves — may make a lot of sense for young investors.
But is buying cryptocurrency for the Gen Zers in your life really a good idea?
Pros and cons of crypto gifts
While receiving cryptocurrency as a gift could potentially offer large returns with no out-of-pocket costs, crypto may not be the best financial asset for young people who may still be learning how to invest and manage money.
Cryptocurrency is a highly volatile asset class, with a valuation that’s often subjected to massive swings up and down. With this in mind, giving the gift of crypto is basically akin to sticking a lottery ticket in a Christmas card. While it may seem like a nice gesture, the sheer amount of uncertainty and volatility surrounding crypto means it’s impossible to tell if your gift will skyrocket or plummet in value.
Beyond the potential for giving a gift that loses value, managing a crypto asset requires a certain amount of know-how. Of course, a Gen Z crypto gift recipient can always learn how to access and safely store their new asset, but some young investors may not be up for the task.
Unlike traditional banking — where the banks provide security that protects your money — the investor is responsible for their own security when investing in crypto. This responsibility is a very important part of owning digital assets, and if a young investor were to misplace or mismanage their crypto, recovery could be very difficult.
Alternatives that could help Gen Z build wealth
The volatility of cryptocurrency has led many experts to caution investors against allocating too much of their portfolio to this asset class.
While exact guidance can vary, many experts recommend capping crypto investments at somewhere between 2% to 5% of your portfolio (5). Conversely, financial experts believe the bulk of your portfolio should be allocated to more tried and true asset classes, like low-cost index funds or bonds.
For young people receiving crypto as a gift, this asset class could make up a large percentage of their investment portfolio; and in many cases, crypto might even represent their only investment. Gifting such a volatile asset to young investors may not be the best way for them to get a portfolio started.
Instead of gifting crypto to the Gen Z folks in your life, some experts advise setting young investors up with assets that will grow with them, like individual stocks or index funds through a custodial account. While some Gen Z investors may not appreciate the growth-over-time style of more traditional asset classes, setting them up with such investments could teach them a valuable lesson about the effects of compounding interest. With investing, slow and steady often wins the race, while chasing big wins with volatile assets could lead to dangerous outcomes.
While parents may want to give a gift that feels modern and aligns with Gen Z’s enthusiasm, the long-term reliability of diversified stocks and index funds may offer steadier growth and less stress. At the same time, ignoring crypto entirely may leave families missing a chance to teach their kids about emerging technology and investing trends.
With this in mind, you might consider a compromise; gifting a young investor with a small amount of crypto while also setting them up with a solid foundation of index funds and stocks. With this balanced approach, a Gen Z investor can get a little bit of the crypto that they crave, while also securing their portfolio with safer assets that can grow over time.
According to a recent survey, 45% of Gen Z say they would love to unwrap cryptocurrency gifts on Christmas morning, which is nearly double the rate of all Americans at 28% (1).
With Bitcoin prices dipping to around $92,000 after peaking at more than $125,000 back in October 2025 (2), many young people seem to think this is the right time to buy into this asset class. Plus, the Trump administration’s pro-crypto attitude, with the president signing an executive order designed to support the U.S. crypto industry (3), seems to be alluring to young investors.
Meanwhile, many in Gen Z report tight budgets in today’s economy. In fact, a report from January 2025 found that 69% of Gen Z live paycheck to paycheck (4). With that in mind, getting crypto as a gift — as opposed to buying it themselves — may make a lot of sense for young investors.
But is buying cryptocurrency for the Gen Zers in your life really a good idea?
Pros and cons of crypto gifts
While receiving cryptocurrency as a gift could potentially offer large returns with no out-of-pocket costs, crypto may not be the best financial asset for young people who may still be learning how to invest and manage money.
Cryptocurrency is a highly volatile asset class, with a valuation that’s often subjected to massive swings up and down. With this in mind, giving the gift of crypto is basically akin to sticking a lottery ticket in a Christmas card. While it may seem like a nice gesture, the sheer amount of uncertainty and volatility surrounding crypto means it’s impossible to tell if your gift will skyrocket or plummet in value.
Beyond the potential for giving a gift that loses value, managing a crypto asset requires a certain amount of know-how. Of course, a Gen Z crypto gift recipient can always learn how to access and safely store their new asset, but some young investors may not be up for the task.
Unlike traditional banking — where the banks provide security that protects your money — the investor is responsible for their own security when investing in crypto. This responsibility is a very important part of owning digital assets, and if a young investor were to misplace or mismanage their crypto, recovery could be very difficult.
Alternatives that could help Gen Z build wealth
The volatility of cryptocurrency has led many experts to caution investors against allocating too much of their portfolio to this asset class.
While exact guidance can vary, many experts recommend capping crypto investments at somewhere between 2% to 5% of your portfolio (5). Conversely, financial experts believe the bulk of your portfolio should be allocated to more tried and true asset classes, like low-cost index funds or bonds.
For young people receiving crypto as a gift, this asset class could make up a large percentage of their investment portfolio; and in many cases, crypto might even represent their only investment. Gifting such a volatile asset to young investors may not be the best way for them to get a portfolio started.
Instead of gifting crypto to the Gen Z folks in your life, some experts advise setting young investors up with assets that will grow with them, like individual stocks or index funds through a custodial account. While some Gen Z investors may not appreciate the growth-over-time style of more traditional asset classes, setting them up with such investments could teach them a valuable lesson about the effects of compounding interest. With investing, slow and steady often wins the race, while chasing big wins with volatile assets could lead to dangerous outcomes.
While parents may want to give a gift that feels modern and aligns with Gen Z’s enthusiasm, the long-term reliability of diversified stocks and index funds may offer steadier growth and less stress. At the same time, ignoring crypto entirely may leave families missing a chance to teach their kids about emerging technology and investing trends.
With this in mind, you might consider a compromise; gifting a young investor with a small amount of crypto while also setting them up with a solid foundation of index funds and stocks. With this balanced approach, a Gen Z investor can get a little bit of the crypto that they crave, while also securing their portfolio with safer assets that can grow over time.
Best crypto under $3: XRP, TRX, SUI, TON
Best crypto under $3: XRP, TRX, SUI, TON
XRP, TRX, Sui and Toncoin attract capital as low-priced large caps regain appeal
Sub-$3 majors are drawing renewed attention as traders look for liquid names with clear narratives but a lower dollar entry point than Bitcoin or Ethereum.
XRP and TRX anchor the payments and settlement segment, combining deep order books with large, established user bases. Sui and Toncoin sit on the infrastructure side of the market, pitching high-throughput smart-contract platforms tied to new developer ecosystems. All four trade comfortably below $3 per token but rank among mid-to-large caps by market value, keeping slippage relatively low compared with smaller altcoins. Their near-term potential hinges on whether network usage and on-chain activity can justify continued capital rotation into this price bracket.
XRP
XRP remains one of the most liquid non-stablecoin assets, trading around $2.1 with multi-billion-dollar daily volumes and a top-five market cap. The token underpins Ripple’s cross-border payments stack and a broader ecosystem of remittance and liquidity products, giving it a clearer enterprise narrative than many altcoins. Recent price action has been choppy but structurally higher than previous cycles, reflecting a mix of speculative flows and longer-horizon positioning around institutional adoption. As regulatory headwinds gradually ease and more payment corridors go live, XRP continues to be treated as a high-beta way to express the “blockchain remittances” theme at a sub-$3 unit price.
TRON (TRX)
TRX trades near $0.28, comfortably inside the under-$3 bracket but with a market cap north of $26B and strong 24-hour turnover, keeping it one of the most liquid altcoins. The Tron network processes large volumes of stablecoin transfers and DeFi transactions, so demand for block space and staking tends to provide a baseline of organic activity. Price performance has been relatively resilient versus many peers lately, with volatility muted by steady on-chain cash-flow metrics. For market participants tracking “steady earn” chains rather than pure speculation, TRX is frequently viewed as a lower-priced proxy for stablecoin settlement growth.
Sui (SUI)
Sui currently changes hands around $1.6, with close to a billion dollars in daily trading volume and a multi-billion-dollar market cap, placing it among the more established new-wave L1s under $3. Built around a high-throughput architecture and the Move language, Sui targets consumer-grade applications such as DeFi, gaming and social products that require low latency and fees. Incentive programs, active developer tooling and a growing roster of ecosystem apps have kept it in the conversation as one of the more serious “next generation” smart-contract chains. As long as TVL, daily active users and transaction volumes continue to trend upward, SUI is likely to remain a core candidate for traders seeking sub-$3 infrastructure exposure.
Toncoin (TON)
Toncoin trades close to $1.6–$1.7 and sits in the mid-cap range by market value, with healthy spot volumes relative to its size. Its key differentiator is tight integration with the Telegram ecosystem, where wallet and mini-app features give TON a direct path to a huge potential user base. That distribution advantage has supported steady growth in payments, DeFi and gaming experiments built natively on TON, even during broader market drawdowns. With unit price still well below $3, Toncoin offers what many traders see as a leveraged bet on messenger-driven crypto adoption—provided that user metrics inside Telegram continue to climb and the app’s Web3 strategy maintains momentum.
Recently we wrote that XRP traded near $2.08 on Wednesday after another rejection from the $2.12 zone, a level that has blocked every attempt to shift short-term sentiment.
XRP, TRX, Sui and Toncoin attract capital as low-priced large caps regain appeal
Sub-$3 majors are drawing renewed attention as traders look for liquid names with clear narratives but a lower dollar entry point than Bitcoin or Ethereum.
XRP and TRX anchor the payments and settlement segment, combining deep order books with large, established user bases. Sui and Toncoin sit on the infrastructure side of the market, pitching high-throughput smart-contract platforms tied to new developer ecosystems. All four trade comfortably below $3 per token but rank among mid-to-large caps by market value, keeping slippage relatively low compared with smaller altcoins. Their near-term potential hinges on whether network usage and on-chain activity can justify continued capital rotation into this price bracket.
XRP
XRP remains one of the most liquid non-stablecoin assets, trading around $2.1 with multi-billion-dollar daily volumes and a top-five market cap. The token underpins Ripple’s cross-border payments stack and a broader ecosystem of remittance and liquidity products, giving it a clearer enterprise narrative than many altcoins. Recent price action has been choppy but structurally higher than previous cycles, reflecting a mix of speculative flows and longer-horizon positioning around institutional adoption. As regulatory headwinds gradually ease and more payment corridors go live, XRP continues to be treated as a high-beta way to express the “blockchain remittances” theme at a sub-$3 unit price.
TRON (TRX)
TRX trades near $0.28, comfortably inside the under-$3 bracket but with a market cap north of $26B and strong 24-hour turnover, keeping it one of the most liquid altcoins. The Tron network processes large volumes of stablecoin transfers and DeFi transactions, so demand for block space and staking tends to provide a baseline of organic activity. Price performance has been relatively resilient versus many peers lately, with volatility muted by steady on-chain cash-flow metrics. For market participants tracking “steady earn” chains rather than pure speculation, TRX is frequently viewed as a lower-priced proxy for stablecoin settlement growth.
Sui (SUI)
Sui currently changes hands around $1.6, with close to a billion dollars in daily trading volume and a multi-billion-dollar market cap, placing it among the more established new-wave L1s under $3. Built around a high-throughput architecture and the Move language, Sui targets consumer-grade applications such as DeFi, gaming and social products that require low latency and fees. Incentive programs, active developer tooling and a growing roster of ecosystem apps have kept it in the conversation as one of the more serious “next generation” smart-contract chains. As long as TVL, daily active users and transaction volumes continue to trend upward, SUI is likely to remain a core candidate for traders seeking sub-$3 infrastructure exposure.
Toncoin (TON)
Toncoin trades close to $1.6–$1.7 and sits in the mid-cap range by market value, with healthy spot volumes relative to its size. Its key differentiator is tight integration with the Telegram ecosystem, where wallet and mini-app features give TON a direct path to a huge potential user base. That distribution advantage has supported steady growth in payments, DeFi and gaming experiments built natively on TON, even during broader market drawdowns. With unit price still well below $3, Toncoin offers what many traders see as a leveraged bet on messenger-driven crypto adoption—provided that user metrics inside Telegram continue to climb and the app’s Web3 strategy maintains momentum.
Recently we wrote that XRP traded near $2.08 on Wednesday after another rejection from the $2.12 zone, a level that has blocked every attempt to shift short-term sentiment.
Tether Freezes $3.3B USDT as New Data Shows 30x Gap With USDC
A new data analysis of stablecoin freezing activity from 2023 to 2025 reveals major differences in scale and approach between the two leading issuers, Tether (USDT) and Circle (USDC).
Key Takeaways:
•Tether and Circle froze $3.3 billion and $109 million in crypto between 2023 and 2025.
•The data shows major differences in how the two largest issuers of dollar-pegged stablecoins police illicit finance.
•The growing scale of stablecoin freezes has stoked debate about the erosion of decentralization and privacy.
•Tether and Circle froze $3.3 billion and $109 million in crypto, respectively, from 2023 to 2025, a new analysis revealed, showing major differences in how the two largest issuers of dollar-pegged stablecoins police illicit finance.
The report, compiled by blockchain forensics outfit AMLBot and shared with Cryptonews this week, reviewed on-chain stablecoin freezing activity across the Ethereum (ERC-20) and Tron (TRC-20) blockchains.
It found that Tether, the company behind USDT stablecoin, reported by far the largest amount of frozen assets over the two years, blacklisting 7,268 crypto wallet addresses. Over 2,800 of the blocked addresses were coordinated with U.S. agencies. Altogether, the wallets hold $3.29 billion.
The report says, “Tether’s freezing and reissuance mechanisms have returned millions of dollars to victims and helped authorities seize funds tied to terrorism, human trafficking, and fraud.”
USDC stablecoin-issuer Circle blacklisted 372 addresses and froze a total of $109 million on Ethereum, it said. Adding data from Tron, the largest USDT network, USDT freezes exceed USDC by 30 times in both asset value and address count.
Tether: Proactive, High-Velocity Freezing
Slava Demchuk, CEO of AMLBot, said the massive gap in blocked funds should not be seen as a measure of relative compliance rigor.
“Freeze volume is not a direct proxy for ‘better’ or ‘worse’ compliance,” he told Cryptonews in an interview, adding:
“USDT’s numbers are larger because more illicit and high-risk activity is denominated in USDT, especially on Tron. And [because] Tether has chosen a more interventionist enforcement model that leaves an evident on-chain footprint.”
On the other hand, USDC’s “smaller footprint reflects both lower exposure to those flows and a narrower, court-driven intervention policy.”
USDT supply surpassed $191 billion in 2025, with its user base reaching 500 million for the first time in October. Circle has around $78 billion of USDC in circulation, according to data from The Block.
He said Tron-based USDT “dominates high-risk corridors,” putting Tether directly in the flow of illicit transactions and prompting a more “proactive freeze model.”
AMLBot’s data shows that more than 53%, or $1.75 billion, of the USDT Tether blocked was issued on Tron, a low-cost blockchain popular with both legitimate and scam users in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe.
Tether has long been dogged by questions of transparency over its reserves and compliance operations. The El Salvador-based company, which is reportedly raising $20 billion at about $500 billion valuation, has in recent years recast itself as an ally to global law enforcement agencies.
According to the AMLBot report, Tether operates a broad, rapid-response enforcement model, working with over 275 law enforcement agencies as well as blockchain intelligence firms in 59 jurisdictions.
Tether’s smart contracts allow it not only to freeze wallet addresses, but also to destroy, or ‘burn’, seized tokens and reissue “clean replacements” to victims, a system that has processed up to $2.7 billion in stolen funds.
For example, between September and November 2025, Tether burned up to 30M tokens. In July 2024, the firm froze $130 million in USDT, including $30 million linked to Cambodia’s Huione Group, which was blocked on Tron.
Circle: Freeze Only If Legally Required
Tether’s willingness to freeze funds without a court order, sometimes to protect users that have been hacked, is not without risk. The company needs approval from several Tether officials before it can freeze a wallet.
The process creates delays that cybercriminals have exploited, resulting in losses of about $78 million since 2017, per the AMLBot report. Privacy advocates have also criticized Tether for its “preemptive” freeze actions.
In April 2025, Texas-based firm Riverstone Consultancy Inc. sued Tether after it blocked nearly $45 million at the request of the Bulgarian Police Department, alleging the action bypassed required legal procedures.
Meanwhile, New York-based Circle takes a narrower, strictly legalistic approach. Under its Stablecoin Access Denial Policy, USDC can be frozen only to comply with court orders, sanctions, or regulatory mandates.
“This order-driven approach leads to activity appearing in tall but rare spikes (batch actions), in contrast to USDT’s more continuous daily flow of enforcement,” the report said.
Unlike Tether, Circle does not burn or reissue frozen funds. Once a wallet address is blacklisted, it cannot send or receive USDC until the restriction is lifted. Circle also publicly reports all blacklisted addresses and their token balances, with audits intended to improve transparency.
The AMLBot report notes that stablecoin freezes have become a critical tool for investigators, allowing authorities to stop illicit flows that would otherwise be hard to intercept in traditional cash-based systems.
But Demchuk warned that current practices remain patchy. “We see that today’s freeze and recovery mechanisms genuinely help law enforcement … but the system is still maturing,”
Companies freeze stablecoins – a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a fixed value, usually pegged to the U.S. dollar — when issuers blacklist an address, making the tokens stored in the wallet unusable.
Decentralization In Focus As Crypto Freezes Soar
AMLBot’s findings come as stablecoins face increasing scrutiny from policymakers. Regulators in the United States and European Union have revealed plans to tighten oversight around issuer compliance standards, real-time reporting and consumer safeguards.
Moreover, the growing scale of crypto asset freezes by the likes of Tether and Circle has stoked debate about the erosion of decentralization and privacy, core foundational principles of the crypto industry.
Dmytro Tarasiuk is the product director at self-regulatory crypto platform Core3. He told Cryptonews that it would be “misleading and unfair” to judge crypto’s ideological roots by examining the behavior of Tether and Circle, which he described as “inevitably centralized players.”
Tarasiuk argued that as the crypto market grew, its unregulated nature became a magnet for both scammers and genuine innovators, pushing the sector toward traditional business models, including government engagement.
“Stablecoins have become the most important element of the entire crypto ecosystem,” Tarasiuk stated. “When we talk about adoption, we’re talking about stablecoin transactions. Nothing in crypto is as familiar to non-crypto people globally as USDT on TRC-20.”
“When we talk about institutional capital, stablecoins are the entry point for all tokenized assets and off-chain investment flows,” he added. “And when we talk about governmental interest, Circle and Tether, now the 8th largest holder of U.S. Treasury bills if compared to countries.”
In that context, says Tarasiuk, freezes and blacklisting “are not random or ideological betrayals, they are signs of the institutionalization of the market.”
#BTCVSGOLD
Key Takeaways:
•Tether and Circle froze $3.3 billion and $109 million in crypto between 2023 and 2025.
•The data shows major differences in how the two largest issuers of dollar-pegged stablecoins police illicit finance.
•The growing scale of stablecoin freezes has stoked debate about the erosion of decentralization and privacy.
•Tether and Circle froze $3.3 billion and $109 million in crypto, respectively, from 2023 to 2025, a new analysis revealed, showing major differences in how the two largest issuers of dollar-pegged stablecoins police illicit finance.
The report, compiled by blockchain forensics outfit AMLBot and shared with Cryptonews this week, reviewed on-chain stablecoin freezing activity across the Ethereum (ERC-20) and Tron (TRC-20) blockchains.
It found that Tether, the company behind USDT stablecoin, reported by far the largest amount of frozen assets over the two years, blacklisting 7,268 crypto wallet addresses. Over 2,800 of the blocked addresses were coordinated with U.S. agencies. Altogether, the wallets hold $3.29 billion.
The report says, “Tether’s freezing and reissuance mechanisms have returned millions of dollars to victims and helped authorities seize funds tied to terrorism, human trafficking, and fraud.”
USDC stablecoin-issuer Circle blacklisted 372 addresses and froze a total of $109 million on Ethereum, it said. Adding data from Tron, the largest USDT network, USDT freezes exceed USDC by 30 times in both asset value and address count.
Tether: Proactive, High-Velocity Freezing
Slava Demchuk, CEO of AMLBot, said the massive gap in blocked funds should not be seen as a measure of relative compliance rigor.
“Freeze volume is not a direct proxy for ‘better’ or ‘worse’ compliance,” he told Cryptonews in an interview, adding:
“USDT’s numbers are larger because more illicit and high-risk activity is denominated in USDT, especially on Tron. And [because] Tether has chosen a more interventionist enforcement model that leaves an evident on-chain footprint.”
On the other hand, USDC’s “smaller footprint reflects both lower exposure to those flows and a narrower, court-driven intervention policy.”
USDT supply surpassed $191 billion in 2025, with its user base reaching 500 million for the first time in October. Circle has around $78 billion of USDC in circulation, according to data from The Block.
He said Tron-based USDT “dominates high-risk corridors,” putting Tether directly in the flow of illicit transactions and prompting a more “proactive freeze model.”
AMLBot’s data shows that more than 53%, or $1.75 billion, of the USDT Tether blocked was issued on Tron, a low-cost blockchain popular with both legitimate and scam users in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe.
Tether has long been dogged by questions of transparency over its reserves and compliance operations. The El Salvador-based company, which is reportedly raising $20 billion at about $500 billion valuation, has in recent years recast itself as an ally to global law enforcement agencies.
According to the AMLBot report, Tether operates a broad, rapid-response enforcement model, working with over 275 law enforcement agencies as well as blockchain intelligence firms in 59 jurisdictions.
Tether’s smart contracts allow it not only to freeze wallet addresses, but also to destroy, or ‘burn’, seized tokens and reissue “clean replacements” to victims, a system that has processed up to $2.7 billion in stolen funds.
For example, between September and November 2025, Tether burned up to 30M tokens. In July 2024, the firm froze $130 million in USDT, including $30 million linked to Cambodia’s Huione Group, which was blocked on Tron.
Circle: Freeze Only If Legally Required
Tether’s willingness to freeze funds without a court order, sometimes to protect users that have been hacked, is not without risk. The company needs approval from several Tether officials before it can freeze a wallet.
The process creates delays that cybercriminals have exploited, resulting in losses of about $78 million since 2017, per the AMLBot report. Privacy advocates have also criticized Tether for its “preemptive” freeze actions.
In April 2025, Texas-based firm Riverstone Consultancy Inc. sued Tether after it blocked nearly $45 million at the request of the Bulgarian Police Department, alleging the action bypassed required legal procedures.
Meanwhile, New York-based Circle takes a narrower, strictly legalistic approach. Under its Stablecoin Access Denial Policy, USDC can be frozen only to comply with court orders, sanctions, or regulatory mandates.
“This order-driven approach leads to activity appearing in tall but rare spikes (batch actions), in contrast to USDT’s more continuous daily flow of enforcement,” the report said.
Unlike Tether, Circle does not burn or reissue frozen funds. Once a wallet address is blacklisted, it cannot send or receive USDC until the restriction is lifted. Circle also publicly reports all blacklisted addresses and their token balances, with audits intended to improve transparency.
The AMLBot report notes that stablecoin freezes have become a critical tool for investigators, allowing authorities to stop illicit flows that would otherwise be hard to intercept in traditional cash-based systems.
But Demchuk warned that current practices remain patchy. “We see that today’s freeze and recovery mechanisms genuinely help law enforcement … but the system is still maturing,”
Companies freeze stablecoins – a type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a fixed value, usually pegged to the U.S. dollar — when issuers blacklist an address, making the tokens stored in the wallet unusable.
Decentralization In Focus As Crypto Freezes Soar
AMLBot’s findings come as stablecoins face increasing scrutiny from policymakers. Regulators in the United States and European Union have revealed plans to tighten oversight around issuer compliance standards, real-time reporting and consumer safeguards.
Moreover, the growing scale of crypto asset freezes by the likes of Tether and Circle has stoked debate about the erosion of decentralization and privacy, core foundational principles of the crypto industry.
Dmytro Tarasiuk is the product director at self-regulatory crypto platform Core3. He told Cryptonews that it would be “misleading and unfair” to judge crypto’s ideological roots by examining the behavior of Tether and Circle, which he described as “inevitably centralized players.”
Tarasiuk argued that as the crypto market grew, its unregulated nature became a magnet for both scammers and genuine innovators, pushing the sector toward traditional business models, including government engagement.
“Stablecoins have become the most important element of the entire crypto ecosystem,” Tarasiuk stated. “When we talk about adoption, we’re talking about stablecoin transactions. Nothing in crypto is as familiar to non-crypto people globally as USDT on TRC-20.”
“When we talk about institutional capital, stablecoins are the entry point for all tokenized assets and off-chain investment flows,” he added. “And when we talk about governmental interest, Circle and Tether, now the 8th largest holder of U.S. Treasury bills if compared to countries.”
In that context, says Tarasiuk, freezes and blacklisting “are not random or ideological betrayals, they are signs of the institutionalization of the market.”
#BTCVSGOLD
Tajikistan Imposes Criminal Penalties for Crypto Miners Using Stolen Power
The new article stipulates a fine of $1,650 to $8,250 for violators or imprisonment from two to eight years.
The Tajikistan parliament has approved revisions to the Criminal Code, introducing Article 253(2), which imposes penalties on miners minting crypto using stolen electricity.
The article stipulates a fine of $1,650 to $8,250 for violators or imprisonment from two to five years. However, for the illegal use of power for crypto mining on an “especially large scale,” the prison term is from five to eight years, per a local media report.
On December 3, members of the Tajik parliament reviewed and adopted the amendments to the Criminal Code, presented by Attorney General Khabibullo Vokhidzoda.
Counsel Vokhidzoda also warned that electricity theft by crypto miners in several cities has already contributed to regional power outages.
“The illegal circulation of virtual assets facilitates a number of crimes, such as the theft of electricity, material damage to the state, money laundering, and other offences,” Vokhidzoda said.
He previously flagged damages from illegal mining operations, causing 32 million somoni (nearly $3.52 million), which led to four to five criminal cases, according to The Diplomat.
Tajikistan Reports Winter Power Shortages
The Central Asian nation, which sources nearly 95% of its electricity from hydropower, is grappling with winter power pressures with low reservoir and river flows.
Besides, following China’s crypto mining ban in 2021, many operators, including those from Russia, moved to Central Asia, attracted by low energy costs and relaxed regulation.
As of August 2025, Tajikistan has been pursuing 190 criminal cases related to the illegal use of electricity. Further, the Diplomat report added that these cases involved 3,988 individuals who allegedly caused damages worth $4.26 million.
MP Shukhrat Ganizoda emphasized that miners connect thousands of ASIC crypto mining devices to Tajikistan’s power grid.
“Those committing such crimes seek to use electricity without meters or through other illegal means to produce such assets,” he explained.
Criminal Code Amendments Prevent Crypto Tax Violations
According to Shukhrat Ganizoda, the new legislation aims to prevent tax evasion schemes and unauthorized electronic encryption.
Additionally, the revisions will also deter attempts to circumvent commodity tracking systems. The bill will be effective after President Emomali Rahmon signs it into law.
The Tajikistan parliament has approved revisions to the Criminal Code, introducing Article 253(2), which imposes penalties on miners minting crypto using stolen electricity.
The article stipulates a fine of $1,650 to $8,250 for violators or imprisonment from two to five years. However, for the illegal use of power for crypto mining on an “especially large scale,” the prison term is from five to eight years, per a local media report.
On December 3, members of the Tajik parliament reviewed and adopted the amendments to the Criminal Code, presented by Attorney General Khabibullo Vokhidzoda.
Counsel Vokhidzoda also warned that electricity theft by crypto miners in several cities has already contributed to regional power outages.
“The illegal circulation of virtual assets facilitates a number of crimes, such as the theft of electricity, material damage to the state, money laundering, and other offences,” Vokhidzoda said.
He previously flagged damages from illegal mining operations, causing 32 million somoni (nearly $3.52 million), which led to four to five criminal cases, according to The Diplomat.
Tajikistan Reports Winter Power Shortages
The Central Asian nation, which sources nearly 95% of its electricity from hydropower, is grappling with winter power pressures with low reservoir and river flows.
Besides, following China’s crypto mining ban in 2021, many operators, including those from Russia, moved to Central Asia, attracted by low energy costs and relaxed regulation.
As of August 2025, Tajikistan has been pursuing 190 criminal cases related to the illegal use of electricity. Further, the Diplomat report added that these cases involved 3,988 individuals who allegedly caused damages worth $4.26 million.
MP Shukhrat Ganizoda emphasized that miners connect thousands of ASIC crypto mining devices to Tajikistan’s power grid.
“Those committing such crimes seek to use electricity without meters or through other illegal means to produce such assets,” he explained.
Criminal Code Amendments Prevent Crypto Tax Violations
According to Shukhrat Ganizoda, the new legislation aims to prevent tax evasion schemes and unauthorized electronic encryption.
Additionally, the revisions will also deter attempts to circumvent commodity tracking systems. The bill will be effective after President Emomali Rahmon signs it into law.
Kidnapped for crypto: Man tortured, dumped in woods after Danish gang snatch couple on the Costa del
A MAN was tortured and executed in a ‘crypto-kidnapping’ horror on the Costa del Sol.
Police have revealed the terrifying final hours of the victim, who was ambushed in Mijas by a ‘commando-style’ gang dressed head-to-toe in black.
The nightmare began in April when the victim and his partner were cornered by three or four hooded figures wearing balaclavas and gloves.
When the man tried to run for his life, the hitmen opened fire, shooting him in the leg to stop him in his tracks.
Bleeding and overpowered, he was dragged into a getaway vehicle alongside his partner and driven to a secret ‘safe house’.
There, the couple were held hostage for hours while the gang tried to force them to hand over the passwords to their cryptocurrency ‘wallets’.
Investigators believe the gang used extreme violence during the interrogation.
When police later raided the gang’s hideouts in Madrid and Malaga, they discovered a blood-stained pair of trousers and an extendable steel baton – suggesting the victim was tortured while held captive.In a chilling twist, the kidnappers decided to free the woman, dumping her on the streets at midnight.
Her partner, however, was never seen alive again.
His body was later discovered dumped in a wooded area of Mijas. Police reported the corpse showed ‘evident signs of violence’ far beyond the initial gunshot wound to his leg.
Detectives have now smashed the ring, which has deep ties to Denmark.
A total of nine suspects have been identified. Five were arrested in Spain, while four have been charged in Denmark – two of whom are already behind bars there.
During the raids, agents seized a real firearm, a replica pistol, and the evidence that linked the suspects to the bloody safe house.
Police have revealed the terrifying final hours of the victim, who was ambushed in Mijas by a ‘commando-style’ gang dressed head-to-toe in black.
The nightmare began in April when the victim and his partner were cornered by three or four hooded figures wearing balaclavas and gloves.
When the man tried to run for his life, the hitmen opened fire, shooting him in the leg to stop him in his tracks.
Bleeding and overpowered, he was dragged into a getaway vehicle alongside his partner and driven to a secret ‘safe house’.
There, the couple were held hostage for hours while the gang tried to force them to hand over the passwords to their cryptocurrency ‘wallets’.
Investigators believe the gang used extreme violence during the interrogation.
When police later raided the gang’s hideouts in Madrid and Malaga, they discovered a blood-stained pair of trousers and an extendable steel baton – suggesting the victim was tortured while held captive.In a chilling twist, the kidnappers decided to free the woman, dumping her on the streets at midnight.
Her partner, however, was never seen alive again.
His body was later discovered dumped in a wooded area of Mijas. Police reported the corpse showed ‘evident signs of violence’ far beyond the initial gunshot wound to his leg.
Detectives have now smashed the ring, which has deep ties to Denmark.
A total of nine suspects have been identified. Five were arrested in Spain, while four have been charged in Denmark – two of whom are already behind bars there.
During the raids, agents seized a real firearm, a replica pistol, and the evidence that linked the suspects to the bloody safe house.
Upbit Moves Most User Funds to Cold Storage After $30M Hot Wallet Hack
Cold wallets keep assets offline and safer but slower to move, while online hot wallets enable fast transfers yet remain far more vulnerable to hacks.
South Korea’s largest crypto exchange, Upbit, is pushing almost all customer assets into cold storage after a major hack on its Solana hot wallet, in one of the most aggressive security pivots yet by a big trading platform.
Operator Dunamu said it will lift the share of user funds held in cold wallets to 99% and cut hot wallet exposure to effectively 0%, after hackers stole 44.5B won, about $30m, from a connected wallet.
The overhaul takes Upbit well beyond South Korea’s Virtual Asset User Protection Act, which requires exchanges to keep at least 80% of customer deposits offline.
Upbit Pushes Hot Wallet Usage Down After Security Review
Cold wallets store digital assets while disconnected from the internet, making them far harder to breach but also slower to move. Hot wallets sit online to process deposits and withdrawals in real time, which makes them convenient for users but a prime target for attackers.
For traders, a 99% cold ratio means a much smaller pool of funds is exposed if a hot wallet is ever compromised again.
In a press statement on Wednesday, Dunamu disclosed that as of the end of Oct. 2025, Upbit held 98.33% of customer assets in cold wallets and 1.67% in hot wallets.
Even before the hack, that was the lowest hot wallet share among domestic exchanges, with rivals keeping cold ratios in a range of roughly 82% to 90%, according to data released by lawmaker Heo Young.
Upbit said it maintained its cold share above 98% despite rising crypto prices and heavier flows from new listings, and has now completed a review and overhaul of its wallet infrastructure.
The company plans to drive the hot wallet ratio down to zero as it tightens its security posture.
Attack Involving Solana Assets Forces Emergency Security Response
This move follows a hack worth initially about 54B won, roughly $36M, on the Solana network, which Upbit later refined to a loss estimate of 44.5B won after an internal review.
A detailed breakdown put 38.6B won, about $26.2M, down as direct user losses, which the company has pledged to fully reimburse from its own reserves.
Tokens affected in the attack included Solana’s SOL as well as ORCA, RAY and JUP, the exchange said. Once abnormal withdrawals were detected, Upbit halted activity, shifted remaining assets into cold storage and began a forensic investigation of its systems and on chain flows.
Proposed Standards Would Require Compensation For Hacks Regardless Of Fault
Oh said engineers discovered a weakness in the exchange’s wallet software that could have allowed attackers to infer private keys by analysing public blockchain data, although Upbit has not confirmed whether that specific vulnerability was used in the breach. The company’s response suggests it is treating hot wallet exposure itself as a systemic risk that needs to be minimised, not just patched.
For the wider industry, the episode is feeding into a regulatory rethink. South Korea’s Financial Services Commission is considering rules that would impose bank-level liability standards on major crypto exchanges after the Upbit incident, including mandatory compensation for hacking and system failures regardless of fault, mirroring obligations already placed on banks and electronic payment firms under the country’s electronic financial transactions law.
If those rules take shape, exchanges operating in Korea will need both stronger security architectures and deeper capital buffers to absorb losses, bringing them closer to the expectations placed on traditional financial institutions.
Upbit’s near total shift to cold storage shows how far a leading platform is now willing to go to reassure users that their coins will not be left sitting online as an easy target.
#CryptoBewareofhackers
South Korea’s largest crypto exchange, Upbit, is pushing almost all customer assets into cold storage after a major hack on its Solana hot wallet, in one of the most aggressive security pivots yet by a big trading platform.
Operator Dunamu said it will lift the share of user funds held in cold wallets to 99% and cut hot wallet exposure to effectively 0%, after hackers stole 44.5B won, about $30m, from a connected wallet.
The overhaul takes Upbit well beyond South Korea’s Virtual Asset User Protection Act, which requires exchanges to keep at least 80% of customer deposits offline.
Upbit Pushes Hot Wallet Usage Down After Security Review
Cold wallets store digital assets while disconnected from the internet, making them far harder to breach but also slower to move. Hot wallets sit online to process deposits and withdrawals in real time, which makes them convenient for users but a prime target for attackers.
For traders, a 99% cold ratio means a much smaller pool of funds is exposed if a hot wallet is ever compromised again.
In a press statement on Wednesday, Dunamu disclosed that as of the end of Oct. 2025, Upbit held 98.33% of customer assets in cold wallets and 1.67% in hot wallets.
Even before the hack, that was the lowest hot wallet share among domestic exchanges, with rivals keeping cold ratios in a range of roughly 82% to 90%, according to data released by lawmaker Heo Young.
Upbit said it maintained its cold share above 98% despite rising crypto prices and heavier flows from new listings, and has now completed a review and overhaul of its wallet infrastructure.
The company plans to drive the hot wallet ratio down to zero as it tightens its security posture.
Attack Involving Solana Assets Forces Emergency Security Response
This move follows a hack worth initially about 54B won, roughly $36M, on the Solana network, which Upbit later refined to a loss estimate of 44.5B won after an internal review.
A detailed breakdown put 38.6B won, about $26.2M, down as direct user losses, which the company has pledged to fully reimburse from its own reserves.
Tokens affected in the attack included Solana’s SOL as well as ORCA, RAY and JUP, the exchange said. Once abnormal withdrawals were detected, Upbit halted activity, shifted remaining assets into cold storage and began a forensic investigation of its systems and on chain flows.
Proposed Standards Would Require Compensation For Hacks Regardless Of Fault
Oh said engineers discovered a weakness in the exchange’s wallet software that could have allowed attackers to infer private keys by analysing public blockchain data, although Upbit has not confirmed whether that specific vulnerability was used in the breach. The company’s response suggests it is treating hot wallet exposure itself as a systemic risk that needs to be minimised, not just patched.
For the wider industry, the episode is feeding into a regulatory rethink. South Korea’s Financial Services Commission is considering rules that would impose bank-level liability standards on major crypto exchanges after the Upbit incident, including mandatory compensation for hacking and system failures regardless of fault, mirroring obligations already placed on banks and electronic payment firms under the country’s electronic financial transactions law.
If those rules take shape, exchanges operating in Korea will need both stronger security architectures and deeper capital buffers to absorb losses, bringing them closer to the expectations placed on traditional financial institutions.
Upbit’s near total shift to cold storage shows how far a leading platform is now willing to go to reassure users that their coins will not be left sitting online as an easy target.
#CryptoBewareofhackers
Asia Market Open: Bitcoin Inches Higher, While Stocks Retreat Ahead of Fed Rate Call.
Analysts warn that a hawkish Fed message could weigh on equities and cap Bitcoin’s year-end momentum, with some arguing politics may be shaping the rate cut.
Bitcoin edged up toward $92,000 on Wednesday while Asian stocks slipped, as traders braced for the US Federal Reserve’s final rate decision of the year and tried to gauge how hawkish the central bank will sound after an almost certain cut.
Equity markets across the region tracked a soft lead from Wall Street. The S&P 500 ended slightly lower on Tuesday, with JPMorgan acting as the biggest drag after the bank warned of hefty expenses in 2026, adding another layer of caution to a market already on edge about policy signals.
The Fed began its two-day meeting on Tuesday, and futures markets still point to a quarter percentage point cut, even though inflation remains above the 2% target.
2.8%
Traders Brace For Hawkish Messaging Even As A Cut Appears Likely
For crypto traders, the question is less about whether the Fed moves this week and more about what Chair Jerome Powell signals on the path ahead.
Some in the market see politics creeping into the calculus. Ruslan Lienkha, chief of markets at YouHodler, said an expected cut amid slightly rising inflation “may be driven more by political considerations than by sound economic reasoning.”
He added that he expects Powell to try to offset the move with hawkish language, a mix he believes could weigh on risk assets. “A hawkish message could increase selling pressure on the already fragile US equity markets, which could, in turn, negatively affect BTC and the broader crypto market,” he said.
Others are already tempering their year-end Bitcoin hopes. Nic Puckrin, investment analyst and co founder of The Coin Bureau, said, “If Powell does indeed deliver a hawkish speech, the likelihood of a Santa rally for Bitcoin diminishes.”
He noted that momentum has not been on Bitcoin’s side recently despite fresh purchases from Michael Saylor’s firm, and said the market “may well finish 2025 under $100,000.”
Inflation And Labor Data Add To Confusion Over Policy Direction
The macro backdrop is not offering much clarity. Fed officials have sent mixed messages, with some warning that inflation could reaccelerate and others sounding more concerned about the labour market.
A Labor Department report on Tuesday showed job openings rising only marginally in October and hiring still subdued, while a separate survey from the National Federation of Independent Business pointed to plans for new hiring in the months ahead.
That tension has pushed more attention onto the Fed’s dot plot, its economic projections and every line of Powell’s press conference. Swings around rate decisions have become one of the main drivers of equity volatility over the past six weeks, often overshadowing debates about an AI bubble or the impact of President Donald Trump’s trade policies on corporate earnings and risk sentiment.
Slower Easing Path Threatens Liquidity Trade That Crypto Relies On
Pricing in money markets shows how expectations have cooled. Traders now see around two cuts in 2026 after a likely quarter point reduction on Wednesday, a pullback from the more optimistic views that circulated only weeks earlier.
For Bitcoin and other digital assets, a slower easing path can mean tighter dollar liquidity and more pressure on the “liquidity trade” that helped fuel previous rallies.
Personnel questions at the Fed are also in the mix. Kevin Hassett, viewed as the frontrunner in Trump’s search to replace Powell, said at an event on Tuesday that he sees room to lower rates substantially, and even more than a single quarter point move.
His comments fed speculation that the longer term policy stance could shift if the White House reshapes the central bank’s leadership in 2026.
Bitcoin edged up toward $92,000 on Wednesday while Asian stocks slipped, as traders braced for the US Federal Reserve’s final rate decision of the year and tried to gauge how hawkish the central bank will sound after an almost certain cut.
Equity markets across the region tracked a soft lead from Wall Street. The S&P 500 ended slightly lower on Tuesday, with JPMorgan acting as the biggest drag after the bank warned of hefty expenses in 2026, adding another layer of caution to a market already on edge about policy signals.
The Fed began its two-day meeting on Tuesday, and futures markets still point to a quarter percentage point cut, even though inflation remains above the 2% target.
2.8%
Traders Brace For Hawkish Messaging Even As A Cut Appears Likely
For crypto traders, the question is less about whether the Fed moves this week and more about what Chair Jerome Powell signals on the path ahead.
Some in the market see politics creeping into the calculus. Ruslan Lienkha, chief of markets at YouHodler, said an expected cut amid slightly rising inflation “may be driven more by political considerations than by sound economic reasoning.”
He added that he expects Powell to try to offset the move with hawkish language, a mix he believes could weigh on risk assets. “A hawkish message could increase selling pressure on the already fragile US equity markets, which could, in turn, negatively affect BTC and the broader crypto market,” he said.
Others are already tempering their year-end Bitcoin hopes. Nic Puckrin, investment analyst and co founder of The Coin Bureau, said, “If Powell does indeed deliver a hawkish speech, the likelihood of a Santa rally for Bitcoin diminishes.”
He noted that momentum has not been on Bitcoin’s side recently despite fresh purchases from Michael Saylor’s firm, and said the market “may well finish 2025 under $100,000.”
Inflation And Labor Data Add To Confusion Over Policy Direction
The macro backdrop is not offering much clarity. Fed officials have sent mixed messages, with some warning that inflation could reaccelerate and others sounding more concerned about the labour market.
A Labor Department report on Tuesday showed job openings rising only marginally in October and hiring still subdued, while a separate survey from the National Federation of Independent Business pointed to plans for new hiring in the months ahead.
That tension has pushed more attention onto the Fed’s dot plot, its economic projections and every line of Powell’s press conference. Swings around rate decisions have become one of the main drivers of equity volatility over the past six weeks, often overshadowing debates about an AI bubble or the impact of President Donald Trump’s trade policies on corporate earnings and risk sentiment.
Slower Easing Path Threatens Liquidity Trade That Crypto Relies On
Pricing in money markets shows how expectations have cooled. Traders now see around two cuts in 2026 after a likely quarter point reduction on Wednesday, a pullback from the more optimistic views that circulated only weeks earlier.
For Bitcoin and other digital assets, a slower easing path can mean tighter dollar liquidity and more pressure on the “liquidity trade” that helped fuel previous rallies.
Personnel questions at the Fed are also in the mix. Kevin Hassett, viewed as the frontrunner in Trump’s search to replace Powell, said at an event on Tuesday that he sees room to lower rates substantially, and even more than a single quarter point move.
His comments fed speculation that the longer term policy stance could shift if the White House reshapes the central bank’s leadership in 2026.
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