Eleven U.S. state pension funds are facing significant losses on their investments in Strategy (MSTR), with 10 out of 11 funds experiencing a roughly 60% loss. The total unrealized losses exceed $337 million, driven by a 67% decline in MSTR shares over the past six months, largely mirroring Bitcoin's drawdown. $COLLECT
The affected pension funds include the New York State Common Retirement Fund and the Florida State Board of Administration, which collectively hold nearly 1.8 million MSTR shares. Initially, their combined investment was around $570 million, but the current market value has plummeted to approximately $240 million.$FIGHT
This situation highlights the risks of indirect Bitcoin exposure via equity proxies like MSTR, which can amplify volatility due to leverage, dilution risk, and equity market dynamics. Experts warn that this episode may lead to stricter risk limits and enhanced due diligence processes for public pension funds.
The current price of MSTR is $129.09, with a market cap of $38.29 billion. $XNY
The New START treaty, which limited the number of strategic nuclear warheads and delivery systems held by the US and Russia, officially expired on February 5, 2026. This marks the first time in over 50 years that no formal restraints exist on US and Russian nuclear forces. $FIGHT
The treaty, signed in 2010 by Barack Obama and Dmitry Medvedev, capped the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads at 1,550 and imposed limits on delivery systems. Its expiration removes restrictions on the world's two largest nuclear powers, sparking fears of an unchecked nuclear arms race.
Russia has stated it will act "carefully and responsibly" on nuclear issues, while the US has not committed to extending the treaty. China has expressed regret over the expiration and urged the US to resume nuclear dialogue with Russia. $COLLECT
The expiration of New START has raised concerns about global stability and the potential for a three-way arms race involving China. Experts warn that without a new agreement, the risk of nuclear proliferation and miscalculation increases.$XNY
Tad Smith, former CEO of Sotheby's, has invested in STRC, a strategy-related asset from Michael Saylor's company, MicroStrategy (MSTR). The investment offers an 11.5% monthly yield backed by Bitcoin (BTC), which Smith considers a good place to park cash during market volatility. $COLLECT
STRC is likely referring to Strategy Inc, with a current price of $97.99 and a market cap of $38.29 billion. $FIGHT
Smith's move indicates confidence in the asset's potential, given his experience in finance and strategy. As a professor at NYU Stern, he teaches finance and strategy for technology, media, and entertainment companies. $XNY
Elon Musk has indeed become the first person in history to surpass a net worth of $850 billion, driven by the merger of his rocket company SpaceX and artificial intelligence startup xAI. This merger added $84 billion to his wealth, valuing the combined company at $1.25 trillion. $COLLECT
Musk's wealth is largely attributed to his stakes in Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI. His net worth has been increasing rapidly, crossing $500 billion in October 2025, $600 billion in December 2025, and $700 billion later that month.$XNY
Experts note that Musk's wealth is subject to market volatility and fluctuations in his companies' valuations. The Bloomberg Billionaires Index estimates his net worth at $690 billion, while Forbes puts it at $852 billion. $FIGHT
#ADPDataDisappoints The US ADP private payrolls report showed a weaker-than-expected increase of 22,000 jobs in January, signaling a cooling labor market. This has led to a softening of the USD and a dip in bond yields, strengthening the rate-cut narrative. The market is now shifting focus to the Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP) report and Fed rate expectations.
The weaker ADP data has also triggered volatility in crypto markets. If job weakness continues, liquidity conditions may ease, potentially benefiting risk assets, but confirmation is needed.
Key points from the ADP report: - Private payroll growth fell short of expectations, with 22,000 jobs added in January - Wage growth remained stable at 4.5% year-over-year - Education and health services led job gains, while manufacturing and professional services saw declines - The report has increased expectations for Fed rate cuts $BTC $ETH $BNB
Tensions are escalating between the US and Iran, with President Trump warning Iran that closing the Strait of Hormuz would lead to war. The Strait is a critical waterway, handling about 20% of global oil consumption, with around 18-19 million barrels passing through daily. $GPS
Iran's threat to block the Strait has sent oil prices soaring, with experts predicting prices could hit $100 per barrel or more if it's closed. The US has deployed naval assets, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, to the region to deter Iranian aggression. $ARC
Trump has stated he's open to negotiations, saying "I hope they make a deal" and "We're negotiating right now". However, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned that any US attack would spark a regional war.
The situation is fluid, and the world is watching closely. $G
Dubai is experiencing a silver shortage, with buyers paying a 15% premium above the usual market rate due to rising demand. The shortage is driven by increased industrial use, investment trends, and jewelry sales. Silver prices are surging, with the current price at $89.35 per ounce, a 4.72% increase. $XAG
The UAE's growing clean energy sector, particularly solar panels, is contributing to the demand. Silver is also used in electronics, medical technologies, and electric vehicles. Investors are turning to silver as a safe-haven asset, further straining supply. $GPS
Traders expect the premium to ease once supply improves, but demand remains strong.$ARC
Senate Democrats are pushing to delay Kevin Warsh's confirmation hearing for Fed Chair, citing "sham" investigations into current Fed leaders Jerome Powell and Lisa Cook. The move could impact market liquidity and the "Trump Trade". $ARC
Democrats argue the investigations are "pretextual" attempts to intimidate the Fed, undermining its independence. They're also questioning Warsh's nomination, saying he's been chosen for his loyalty to Trump's agenda, particularly on rate cuts. $ENSO
Republican Senator Thom Tillis is also opposing the nomination until the Powell investigation is resolved, creating a potential deadlock on the Senate Banking Committee.
The uncertainty is expected to inject volatility into markets, affecting the Dollar Index and Treasury yields. Warsh's potential confirmation delay might also push back expected rate cuts, impacting crypto markets.$OG