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XRP continued to attract capital even as its price remained range bound. Despite steady inflows and expanding infrastructure, the token traded near the $2 level, reflecting a growing disconnect between underlying activity and short-term market response.

This divergence placed XRP under close observation, as capital rotation and network developments advanced faster than price action.

XRP Price Compression Persists Despite Inflows

At the time of writing, XRP was trading near the 50 percent Fibonacci retracement level around $2.02. Volatility continued to tighten, forming an ascending triangle pattern that typically reflects consolidation rather than trend reversal.

Momentum indicators pointed to hesitation rather than weakness. The Relative Strength Index hovered near 42, suggesting neutral conditions, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence indicator compressed and approached a potential bullish crossover.

Price action did not immediately reflect the increase in capital inflows, indicating absorption rather than distribution. Liquidity remained concentrated within the current trading range, suggesting that the market was testing patience instead of signaling loss of confidence.

Overall, technical signals remained consistent with consolidation, as momentum indicators did not confirm a breakdown. This structure implied that positioning may be building beneath the surface rather than exiting the market.

Capital Inflows Continue Without Immediate Price Reaction

XRP recorded approximately $16.42 million in net inflows, extending a streak that has now lasted 19 consecutive days. Despite this sustained demand, price movement remained limited.

The recent launch of 21Shares’ spot XRP exchange traded fund, listed under the ticker TOXR, expanded regulated market access. While this added to inflow activity, it did not result in immediate repricing.

Historically, XRP has experienced similar phases where capital inflows and access expansion precede price adjustments. In such cases, price reactions have often followed once positioning stabilizes.

XRP Infrastructure Expansion Adds Fundamental Weight

Beyond market data, Ripple continued to expand its infrastructure footprint. The company confirmed the completion of its Rail acquisition, strengthening its stablecoin and payments capabilities across its broader ecosystem.

Earlier expansions across custody services, treasury intelligence, and prime brokerage have positioned Ripple as a more comprehensive digital asset infrastructure provider. These efforts aim to support institutional use cases rather than short-term trading demand.

Ripple also announced the first European bank adoption of Ripple Payments through AMINA Bank. This integration extends real-time cross-border settlement into regulated markets, further broadening XRP’s utility.

Source: xrp.com

These developments contributed to the widening gap between its growing operational role and its compressed price behavior.

XRP Market Focus Shifts to Timing

XRP’s current structure reflects a familiar pattern in which fundamentals and capital flows build ahead of price movement. As consolidation continues, attention has shifted from growth metrics to timing.

With inflows persisting and infrastructure expanding, the market appears to be in a holding phase. Whether this compression resolves through a price expansion or extended consolidation will depend on broader market conditions and sustained demand.

The post XRP Sees $16.4M in Inflows as Price Holds Near $2 first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Bitcoin pulled back from recent highs as selling pressure returned across the broader digital asset market. At the time of reporting, BTC was trading near $90,000, extending a decline from its latest peak.

The retracement revived ongoing debates around Bitcoin’s cyclical volatility, even as institutional access to the asset continues to expand through regulated investment vehicles.

Source: Trading View Vanguard Reiterates Its Position on Bitcoin

The latest market weakness coincided with renewed criticism from Vanguard, one of the world’s largest asset managers. Despite allowing clients to trade spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds on its brokerage platform, the firm continues to publicly distance itself from the asset.

Speaking at Bloomberg’s ETFs in Depth event in New York, John Ameriks, Vanguard’s Global Head of Quantitative Equity, questioned Bitcoin’s role as an investment. He compared the cryptocurrency to a popular collectible toy, referring to it as a “digital Labubu.”

Ameriks used the comparison to restate Vanguard’s long-standing view that Bitcoin lacks traditional investment characteristics. According to him, Bitcoin generates no income, produces no cash flow, and does not compound in value through productive activity. For these reasons, Vanguard categorizes it as a collectible rather than a productive financial asset.

He added that the firm has not seen sufficient evidence that Bitcoin’s underlying technology delivers durable economic value. His remarks align with historical criticisms that liken Bitcoin to past speculative episodes such as tulip mania or collectible booms, where value was driven largely by scarcity narratives rather than underlying fundamentals.

Access Without Endorsement

The comments stand in contrast to Vanguard’s recent policy changes. Under the leadership of newly appointed CEO Salim Ramji, a former BlackRock executive with experience in digital asset markets, Vanguard reversed its long-standing resistance to crypto-related products.

The firm now permits clients to trade exchange-traded funds holding cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana. These products are available alongside more traditional assets like equities and commodities on Vanguard’s brokerage platform.

Ameriks explained that the decision followed the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January 2024, which improved market infrastructure and liquidity. However, he stressed that offering access does not equate to endorsement.

Vanguard does not provide investment recommendations related to cryptocurrencies and does not guide clients on whether to buy or sell digital assets. Instead, the firm positions itself as a neutral platform provider responding to client demand while maintaining its internal investment philosophy.

A Deliberate Distance From Crypto Exposure

Vanguard began offering access to crypto-focused ETFs and related mutual funds to its brokerage customers in early December. The move marked a significant shift for the firm, which manages approximately $12 trillion in assets and serves more than 50 million clients.

According to Andrew Kadjeski, Vanguard’s head of brokerage and investments, the ETF structure has demonstrated resilience during periods of market volatility and has maintained sufficient liquidity. These characteristics made the products suitable for inclusion on the platform from an operational standpoint.

Despite this, Vanguard has not launched proprietary crypto products and continues to publicly question Bitcoin’s investment merit. The firm’s approach highlights a growing divide between providing market access and expressing institutional conviction.

As crypto markets mature, Vanguard’s stance reflects a broader tension facing traditional asset managers. While client demand and regulatory developments are expanding access, skepticism around long-term economic value remains firmly embedded in parts of the financial establishment.

The post ‘Digital labubu’: Despite Bitcoin Expanding Access Vanguard Maintains Skepticism first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Bitcoin has spent most of December trading within a narrow range, signaling a period of consolidation rather than directional momentum. After closing at $91,277 on December 2, BTC has continued to move sideways, reflecting a balance between buyers and sellers.

This range-bound behavior coincides with a noticeable return of accumulation. On-chain data suggests that long-term oriented investors are increasing exposure, raising questions about whether renewed demand could support a move toward higher price levels.

Accumulator Addresses Increase Holdings

Bitcoin accumulator addresses began increasing their exposure in early December. According to CryptoQuant data, these addresses collectively acquired approximately 78,000 BTC between December 1 and December 10.

During this period, balances held by accumulator addresses rose from roughly 237,000 BTC to 315,000 BTC. Based on prevailing prices, this represents about $7.2 billion in capital deployed in less than two weeks.

Accumulator addresses are typically defined by strict criteria, including the absence of outflows, consistent purchasing behavior, and a long-term history of activity. Accumulation at this scale often reflects growing confidence in price stability or expectations of a future rebound.

This shift in behavior followed comments from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicating a rate cut and a more accommodative monetary stance during the latest FOMC briefing. Historically, such policy signals have supported demand for risk assets, including Bitcoin.

Bitcoin Derivatives Market Shows Improving Buy Pressure

Alongside spot accumulation, derivatives market data points to a gradual return of buyers. Bitcoin’s Spot Taker Cumulative Volume Delta over a 90-day timeframe shows that taker buyers have been increasingly active since September.

A positive taker-buy dominance suggests that market participants are more willing to buy at market prices, reflecting stronger short-term conviction. This stands in contrast to the earlier period when selling pressure dominated, with only brief moments of balance between buyers and sellers.

Funding rate data also supports this trend. At the time of analysis, CoinGlass reported a positive funding rate of 0.0067 percent, indicating that long positions slightly outweighed shorts. While the reading remains modest, it confirms a shift toward a more constructive market stance.

Liquidity Levels Define Near-Term Risk

To assess potential price movement, Bitcoin’s daily liquidation heatmap offers insight into areas of concentrated liquidity. Current data shows fewer liquidity clusters above the market price compared to levels below it.

This imbalance suggests that upward price movement may encounter less immediate resistance than a downward move. From the current price region around $92,464, Bitcoin appears to face lighter liquidity resistance up to the $97,000 area.

On the downside, stronger liquidity clusters are positioned near $89,000 and $88,000. These zones may act as demand areas if price revisits them, potentially slowing or reversing further declines depending on market sentiment.

Bitcoin Market Outlook Remains Data-Dependent

Bitcoin’s current setup reflects a convergence of renewed accumulation, improving derivatives activity, and a supportive macro backdrop. While consolidation continues, underlying demand signals suggest that market participants are positioning cautiously rather than exiting.

Whether this demand translates into a sustained breakout will depend on broader market conditions and the persistence of buying pressure in the weeks ahead.

The post Bitcoin Sees $7.2B in New Demand as Accumulation Builds first appeared on The VR Soldier.

2025 has so far been one of the most difficult periods for digital assets since the 2022 downturn. As the final quarter approaches its close, the total cryptocurrency market capitalization remains under pressure, reigniting debate around whether crypto has moved beyond speculative cycles. Solana finds itself at the center of that discussion.

From a performance perspective, SOL has struggled relative to its large-cap peers. The token is down roughly 27% year to date, making it the weakest performer among the top five cryptocurrencies by market value. By comparison, Binance Coin has gained approximately the same percentage over the same period. This places Solana on track for its poorest annual showing since the 2022 bear market.

On-chain metrics reflect growing stress among holders. Solana’s Net Realized Profit and Loss indicator has turned sharply negative, suggesting that many investors are selling at a loss. Historically, this type of reading has aligned with capitulation phases, where confidence weakens and market participants either wait for clearer conditions or exit positions altogether.

Despite this technical weakness, Solana appears to be approaching an important inflection point. While price action continues to trend lower, activity within the broader ecosystem suggests a different narrative is developing beneath the surface.

Real World Assets Shift Solana Strategic Direction

Recent ecosystem developments indicate that Solana is increasingly positioning itself around real world asset infrastructure. A significant portion of its latest partnerships are tied to tokenized assets rather than speculative applications.

Several initiatives illustrate this shift. Bhutan has introduced tokenized gold products, while institutional allocator Keel has announced a fund valued at approximately $500 million. Ondo Finance is also preparing to deploy a tokenized liquidity fund on Solana. These projects rely on Solana’s ability to process transactions quickly and operate at scale, reinforcing its appeal for on-chain financial infrastructure.

Source: X

Real world assets represent tokenized versions of tangible or financial instruments such as commodities, funds, or fixed income products. Their expansion on Solana suggests an effort to move beyond short-term speculation and toward utility-driven use cases.

Network Activity Signals Ongoing Interest

Blockchain data shows that market participants continue to engage with the network despite price weakness. On-chain tracking platforms observed a new wallet withdrawing around 37,000 SOL from Binance, while address growth has accelerated since the mid-October market downturn. Approximately two million new addresses have joined the network during that period, pushing total addresses to around 6.5 million.

A newly created wallet 6pj7c4 just withdrew 37,002 $SOL($4.84M) from #Binance.https://t.co/Ri1mtQFO85 pic.twitter.com/wxh4rvYajP

— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) December 11, 2025

This contrast between declining prices and expanding ecosystem activity highlights the tension currently surrounding Solana. While technical indicators remain bearish, infrastructure development and user growth continue to support interest in the network.

The post Solana Drops 27% Year to Date as RWA Strategy Gains Attention first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Ethereum price struggles below key resistance

Ethereum recorded modest gains over the past twenty four hours, rising roughly one to one and a half percent and trading within a tight range between approximately three thousand one hundred sixty and three thousand two hundred sixty dollars. Despite the short term recovery, price action remains constrained and lacks strong directional momentum.

Tom Lee: $3,000 ETH Is the Most Undervalued Asset

Bitmine Chairman Tom Lee stated at the Binance Blockchain Week on December 4th that $3,000 Ethereum is grossly undervalued, and that the current decline in the crypto market is mainly related to deleveraging, rather than the… pic.twitter.com/mRVRoHDcKO

— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) December 12, 2025

The asset continues to trade below its one hundred day and two hundred day moving averages. These longer term averages have acted as dynamic resistance in recent weeks, capping upside attempts and limiting follow through. A recent breakout above a descending trendline briefly improved sentiment, but price was rejected at a familiar resistance zone that has repeatedly stalled rallies since early November.

Technical structure shows fragile balance

On lower timeframes, Ethereum managed to break a bearish trendline before quickly losing traction. This behavior suggests that buyers are present but lack conviction, especially as broader market participation remains cautious.

A nearby bullish order block aligns with the previously broken trendline and may act as short term support. This zone has become a focal point for traders watching whether Ethereum can stabilize or whether sellers regain control. If price holds above this area, a consolidation phase may follow. A failure to defend it could open the door to renewed downside pressure.

The Relative Strength Index has cooled from overbought territory, reflecting fading momentum rather than a clear reversal. While this reset can be constructive in strong trends, the absence of strong spot demand limits its bullish significance in the current context.

Rising open interest increases downside risk

One of the more notable developments is the steady rise in Ethereum futures open interest. Market data shows that leveraged positions continue to build even as price recovery remains limited. Historically, this structure has preceded sharp moves when leverage becomes overcrowded.

When open interest rises faster than spot price, it often signals speculative positioning rather than organic demand. In such conditions, even modest price moves can trigger forced liquidations as traders unwind leveraged bets. This can lead to sudden volatility spikes in either direction.

Analysts note that elevated open interest paired with sideways or weak price action creates an unstable market environment. Without a clear expansion in spot buying, leverage driven rallies tend to be vulnerable to rapid reversals.

Key levels traders are watching

Ethereum remains at a technical crossroads. Sustained trading below the major moving averages keeps the broader structure cautious. Bulls would need to reclaim and hold above these levels to reduce liquidation risk and signal stronger trend continuation.

On the downside, a breakdown below the nearby support zone tied to the bullish order block could accelerate selling pressure, especially if futures positions begin to unwind simultaneously. For now, Ethereum’s price structure reflects balance rather than strength, with leverage acting as the primary driver of short term risk.

As long as open interest stays elevated without clear spot market confirmation, traders are likely to remain alert for sharp, fast moves driven by liquidation dynamics rather than gradual price discovery.

The post Ethereum Market Structure Signals Liquidation Risk first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Market pulls back as nearly all major coins decline

The crypto market saw a broad decline on December 11, with total market capitalization falling around 2.8 percent to roughly three point one six trillion dollars. Out of the top one hundred cryptocurrencies, ninety-seven traded lower over the past twenty-four hours, reflecting a widespread retreat rather than isolated weakness. Trading volume reached approximately one hundred fifty-four billion dollars, indicating active repositioning rather than a drop in market participation.

Bitcoin fell around two point eight percent to about ninety thousand dollars, while Ethereum dropped more than four percent, trading near three thousand one hundred eighty dollars. Almost all major altcoins also declined, with Dogecoin and Solana posting some of the heaviest losses.

Market performance across top assets

Among the largest ten cryptocurrencies, every asset moved lower. Dogecoin saw the steepest decline of more than six percent, followed by Solana’s six percent slide. Tron registered the smallest drop at just under one percent.

Within the top one hundred assets, only three tokens registered gains for the day: Provenance Blockchain, MemeCore, and Rain. The remaining assets moved into negative territory, with Pump.fun and Ethena showing the sharpest declines.

Federal Reserve policy adds uncertainty to risk assets

The Federal Reserve approved a quarter-point rate cut at its latest meeting, a move many investors had anticipated. Analysts noted that the decision was less hawkish than expected, providing short-term relief across markets. However, expectations for future rate cuts shifted downward, adding new uncertainty to the medium-term macro outlook.

Market participants emphasized that uncertainty around liquidity, the Fed’s balance sheet, and the upcoming leadership transition could limit risk-asset momentum through the end of the year. Several analysts commented that while the rate cut reduces borrowing costs, it does not establish a clear path for sustained market recovery.

Upcoming economic releases and ongoing evaluations of government activity following administrative disruptions have contributed to a cautious stance in global markets.

Bitcoin and Ethereum technical levels to watch

Bitcoin traded between eighty-eight thousand and ninety-four thousand dollars over the past week. A move below ninety-two thousand could open a path toward eighty-seven thousand and potentially eighty-three thousand, while sustained strength above ninety-two thousand may allow retests of targets near ninety-eight thousand and higher resistance levels.

Ethereum followed a similar pattern, briefly rising above three thousand four hundred dollars before retracing. Technical levels to watch include support near three thousand fifty and two thousand nine hundred forty, with resistance forming around three thousand three hundred fifty and higher levels if momentum builds.

Market sentiment holds in fear territory

The crypto fear and greed index remains in the fear zone, slipping from thirty to twenty-nine. Market sentiment has moved within a narrow band for several days, reflecting caution among traders as they await clearer macroeconomic and geopolitical indicators.

ETF flows remain positive despite market pullback

Despite the broader decline in crypto prices, exchange-traded funds tied to Bitcoin and Ethereum recorded positive inflows. Bitcoin ETFs saw roughly two hundred twenty-three million dollars added, with BlackRock and Fidelity leading contributions. Ethereum ETFs recorded around fifty-seven million dollars in new inflows, with BlackRock and Grayscale recording additions.

The sustained inflows suggest that institutional interest remains intact even as short-term price action weakens.

Industry developments continue amid volatility

In separate developments, institutional investment firms are expanding operations in emerging financial hubs. Galaxy announced plans to establish operations under the Abu Dhabi Global Market framework. Meanwhile, commentary from market leaders highlighted potential changes to long-term crypto price cycles, pointing to evolving institutional participation as a factor reshaping volatility patterns.

Galaxy is officially expanding into Abu Dhabi.

Today, we announced our new @ADGlobalMarket office, strengthening our global reach and deepening our commitment to one of the world’s most dynamic financial centers.

Read the announcement here: https://t.co/YEw7dZw8ae pic.twitter.com/hifgY2F05J

— Galaxy (@galaxyhq) December 10, 2025

The post Why the Crypto Market Is Down Today first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Polkadot retests long-term accumulation structure

Polkadot traded near the two-dollar level on Friday after a sharp intraday drop that pulled the token back into a price zone chart analysts have monitored for more than two years. The range was first highlighted in mid-2022 by analyst EGRAG CRYPTO, who refers to it as Polkadot’s “home” zone due to repeated returns to the region during broader market downturns.

DOT’s latest move into this range followed an early rally that briefly pushed the token above short-term resistance before sellers re-entered the market. Trading activity was elevated during the initial rise but shifted decisively as the decline unfolded, according to market data.

Analyst view: structural floor, but no confirmed bottom

EGRAG CRYPTO describes the zone as a structural accumulation band using principles drawn from Wyckoff analysis, deep-liquidity wicks, and the historical behavior of Polkadot during earlier cycle lows. The analyst noted accumulating DOT at several price points but cautioned that the presence of structural support does not guarantee that a final market bottom has formed.

Polkadot will halve its annual issuance on March 14, 2026. From 120M DOT to 55M DOT. Issuance will further decrease by ~26% every 2 years, reaching a fixed cap of 2.1B DOT by 2160

This has been approved via OpenGov referendum by @GldnCalf in Sept 2025https://t.co/3pbhratTU7 pic.twitter.com/yoejmjL4MS

— Filippo Franchini (@filippoweb3) December 11, 2025

An earlier price wick in October is being interpreted in multiple ways: either as an isolated liquidity event or as part of a cyclical retest consistent with typical four-year market rhythms. The analyst argues that both interpretations remain plausible, leaving open the possibility of further downside inside the accumulation zone.

Broader context and institutional signals

Polkadot’s inclusion in a Bitwise crypto index is viewed by some traders as a supportive long-term factor, aligning DOT with assets widely tracked by institutional allocators. Supporters of the long-term accumulation thesis point to Polkadot’s role in multi-chain interoperability, continued development activity, and ongoing updates to the network’s core architecture.

Even so, market participants remain cautious. Reaction at the current price band will determine whether buyers continue to view the zone as a viable long-term entry or whether weakening sentiment pushes DOT deeper into the structure.

What traders are watching

Analysts are focused on several key questions:

whether the current pattern aligns with a Wyckoff accumulation model

whether the October wick represented a capitulation event

whether buyers can defend the lower boundary of the “home” range

what upside targets may emerge if a cycle bottom is eventually confirmed

For now, the price remains inside a zone that has historically acted as long-term support, but confirmation of a reversal will depend on a shift in momentum and stronger evidence of sustained demand.

The post Polkadot Reenters Long-Term $2 Support Zone first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Trump-themed game to launch with TRUMP rewards but no Trump involvement

A new Donald Trump-themed mobile game, Trump Billionaires Club, is scheduled to launch before the end of the year, according to an announcement from the official TRUMP meme coin community. The title will distribute TRUMP token rewards through the Open Loot gaming platform, although developers emphasize the project is neither political nor designed by Trump or his businesses.

Gameplay mixes board mechanics with collectible progression

The game is described as a 3D board-style title where players climb a “billionaire ladder” using dice rolls, luck, and strategy. Both web and mobile versions will be available, with crypto and non-crypto modes so players can participate without a blockchain wallet. Details about how TRUMP rewards are earned remain undisclosed.

Open Loot, co-founded by Decentraland’s Ari Meilich, is supporting the game’s launch. The platform specializes in distributing digital rewards and web3-enabled game assets.

Developers deny political ties and clarify ownership limits

Trump Billionaires Club is being developed by Freedom45Games LLC, a Wyoming-registered company that licenses the Trump brand for commercial use. The developer says Trump had no input in designing or producing the game, despite the thematic branding.

The company shares registered agents with several other Trump-licensed enterprises, including 45Footwear and Celebration Cards LLC, the latter connected to the TRUMP meme coin ecosystem. However, the actual owners of Freedom45Games have not been publicly identified.

The game advertises the ability to “turn progress into ownership,” but the terms of service state that all digital collectibles remain the property of Freedom45Games. Players do not receive true ownership rights over assets or mechanics, aligning the product with closed-system gaming environments rather than decentralized asset models.

Confusion grows around Trump-branded web3 projects

The launch adds to a growing list of Trump-themed digital projects. Earlier this year, a tap-to-earn Telegram game called Trump’s Empire allowed players to build a virtual business before eventually launching their own meme coin as part of gameplay milestones.

This expanding ecosystem has led to regulatory and political scrutiny. A previous letter from Senator Richard Blumenthal tied another TRUMP-connected company, Fight Fight Fight LLC, to longtime Trump associate Bill Zanker, although no link to Freedom45Games has been confirmed.

Minimal effect on TRUMP token price

The announcement of the new game had limited impact on the TRUMP token, which runs on the Solana network. The token surged earlier in the year but has since fallen from its peak despite periodic promotional activity surrounding Trump-themed products.

Developers insist the game is not affiliated with any political campaign and is intended purely as entertainment, though its branding and timing continue to spark questions around licensing, ownership transparency, and the evolving overlap between meme coins and commercial gaming.

The post New Trump Game Uses TRUMP Tokens first appeared on The VR Soldier.

XRP approaches new cycle phase as accumulation appears complete

XRP slipped around 3% over the past 24 hours, easing from about $2.11 to roughly $2.04 on December 11. Despite the minor decline, trading volumes remained elevated, suggesting active market participation rather than a low-liquidity slide. The broader structure remains intact, with analysts pointing to deeper technical factors shaping XRP’s trajectory into the next cycle.

Analysts note similarities to earlier pre-expansion behavior

Technical analyst EGRAG CRYPTO argues that XRP has completed a long sideways accumulation range that began several cycles ago. The structure resembles early-stage behaviors seen before major expansions, most notably in 2017, though the analyst emphasized that no cycle repeats with perfect precision.

#XRP – Weekly Inverted Hammer… Is This the Bottom?

The weekly candle at $1.94 is showing a clear Inverted Hammer, one of the strongest single-candle bullish reversal signals, especially when it appears after a multi-week downtrend.

The long upper wick shows buyers… pic.twitter.com/z1Sp3ed6KZ

— EGRAG CRYPTO (@egragcrypto) December 11, 2025

The current price action is described as “pre-expansion,” supported by a sustained weekly demand zone that has held through multiple tests. Compression within this range is interpreted as a coiled structure rather than weakening momentum.

Support holds as indicators reflect a constructive setup

XRP continues to trade above a significant support region identified by multiple analysts. This has reinforced the view that the asset is stabilizing before a potential larger move. Key indicators, including the Relative Strength Index, show no topping pattern. Instead, RSI remains neutral, leaving room for further upside if market conditions align.

Momentum metrics across higher timeframes also support the view that XRP remains in a constructive structure. Analysts expect that a break above near-term resistance zones could shift the asset decisively into its next phase.

Fractals highlight expansion potential into 2025 and 2026

EGRAG CRYPTO’s fractal analysis suggests that the consolidation base formed over recent years may now be complete. The analyst describes this type of structure as preceding a repricing phase, though stressing that fractals offer directional guidance rather than fixed outcomes. Liquidity differences across cycles remain a major variable.

Historical compression patterns in previous cycles often preceded stronger moves once resistance levels were cleared. The present chart, analysts note, reflects similar early-stage traits, though broader market conditions will determine whether the pattern matures.

Resistance levels mapped for the next breakout attempt

Analyst PrecisionTrade3 outlined short-term and mid-range resistance levels that XRP must overcome to confirm an expansion phase. The expected path includes a breakout followed by a backtest that converts resistance into support, forming the foundation for subsequent waves.

The analyst points to the absence of bearish divergence and the presence of a neutral RSI as favorable elements for continuation. However, a cluster of overhead resistance still stands between XRP and a full trend reversal.

What comes next for XRP

With support holding and compression tightening, XRP is positioned at a transitional point between consolidation and potential expansion. Analysts watching the asset highlight that a decisive breakout would shift the structure into a bullish phase that could extend into 2025 and 2026.

Until resistance is decisively cleared, the pattern remains incomplete but the underlying structure, according to technical observers, is leaning increasingly constructive.

The post XRP Builds Toward Expansion Into 2025 first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Satoshi Nakamoto artwork reaches the New York Stock Exchange

A new statue honoring Bitcoin’s pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, has been installed at the New York Stock Exchange, marking a symbolic intersection between cryptocurrency history and one of the world’s most influential financial institutions. The artwork, created by Italian artist Valentina Picozzi, was placed at the NYSE by Bitcoin-focused firm Twenty One Capital, which recently began public trading.

The sculpture is part of Picozzi’s global “disappearing Satoshi” series, an artistic concept that depicts Nakamoto in a seated pose with a laptop, gradually blending into the surroundings. The design reflects the mystery surrounding Nakamoto’s identity and the idea that the creator intentionally stepped away from public view after launching the Bitcoin protocol.

A global art series tied to Bitcoin’s origins

This installation is the sixth in a collection planned to include 21 pieces worldwide, symbolizing Bitcoin’s fixed supply of 21 million coins. Previous statues have appeared in Switzerland, El Salvador, Japan, Vietnam, and Miami. Each location was chosen for its connection to Bitcoin adoption, cultural significance, or community engagement.

The NYSE placement aligns with Bitcoin’s broader historical timeline. Nakamoto released the Bitcoin white paper in 2008 and mined the first block in January 2009. Early milestones including the first recorded Bitcoin purchase in 2010, when 10,000 BTC were exchanged for pizza have since become foundational moments in digital asset culture.

Why the NYSE installation matters

The presence of a Satoshi statue at the NYSE highlights how cryptocurrency has evolved from a niche online experiment to a topic of global financial relevance. Over the past decade, traditional financial institutions that once kept crypto at arm’s length have increasingly integrated digital assets into investment products, custodial services, and market infrastructure.

Public companies, private firms, governments, and exchange-traded funds collectively hold more than 3.7 million BTC in their reserves. This accumulation, valued at hundreds of billions of dollars, underscores how Bitcoin has entered long-term financial planning for both corporations and national entities.

A reflection of shifting attitudes in global finance

The NYSE installation also symbolizes how cultural narratives around Bitcoin have changed. Early skepticism from major institutions has gradually given way to exploration, and in many cases, active participation. Several high-profile companies now allocate a portion of their treasuries to Bitcoin, and global asset managers operate Bitcoin ETFs that attract billions in inflows.

The statue is therefore more than an artistic tribute. It serves as a marker of Bitcoin’s integration into mainstream economic discussions and its growing foothold in institutional decision-making. As the “disappearing Satoshi” series expands, each installation contributes to documenting the cultural and technological influence of Bitcoin across different regions.

Looking ahead

With more statues planned across the world, the series will continue to connect physical landmarks with digital history. Each placement invites reflection on how cryptographic technology has reshaped conversations about money, privacy, global networks, and decentralized systems. The NYSE installation stands as one of the most symbolic additions yet, positioning Bitcoin’s anonymous creator within the heart of traditional finance.

The post NYSE Unveils New Satoshi Installation first appeared on The VR Soldier.

A ChatGPT-powered trading system has highlighted Chainlink, Toncoin, and Kaspa as cryptocurrencies showing renewed strength during the latest market recovery phase. The bot’s analysis draws from price behavior, network activity, and ongoing ecosystem developments.

Chainlink Activity Rises With Tokenization Demand

Chainlink continues to attract attention as interest in real-world asset tokenization trading grows. Recent research from Grayscale described Chainlink as essential infrastructure for institutions building tokenized financial systems. Banks and enterprises are testing Chainlink’s Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP) for settlement, automated corporate workflows, and tokenized fund operations. These pilots contribute to sustained demand for LINK’s data and messaging services.

 

I have this LONG thread/conversation with ChatGPT where we discuss the current developments, market conditions, etc. of $LINK. I just now fed it the update that Payment Abstraction is live on mainnet, and the first usecase is SVR on @aave.

This is the part I was contemplating… pic.twitter.com/icOfoDitlq

— Chainlink Chad (@chainlinkchad69) April 1, 2025

Toncoin Trading Benefits From Telegram Integrations

Toncoin has maintained relative strength following new developments tied to Telegram’s ecosystem. The network trading benefits from exposure to millions of users through Telegram’s TON Wallet and its mini-apps, which support payments and basic financial features. The TON network currently powers USDT transfers, gaming utilities, and payment tools that are either live or in deployment. This growing integration has kept market interest elevated.

Kaspa Gains Momentum Through BlockDAG Technology

Kaspa recorded strong weekly trading gains supported by its blockDAG architecture, which allows rapid confirmations while maintaining a proof-of-work consensus. This design has appealed to miners and traders searching for alternatives to Bitcoin-focused ETFs. Kaspa’s listing as a base asset on the Dymension platform has added further visibility, supporting its broader adoption.

Trading Market Recovery Expands  Beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum

As trading digital asset markets show signs of stabilization, traders are increasingly looking beyond the largest cryptocurrencies. Chainlink, Toncoin, and Kaspa have emerged as notable performers, supported by foundation-level developments rather than price speculation alone.

The post AI Trading Bot Identifies Chainlink, Toncoin, and Kaspa as Market Regains Momentum first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Hyperliquid Strategies has completed its merger with Sonnet BioTherapeutics, creating what is now the largest HYPE-focused corporate treasury. The merger, first proposed in July, positions the unified entity to operate under the name Hyperliquid Strategies.

According to CEO David Schamis, the move allows traditional public-market investors to gain direct exposure to the Hyperliquid chain and its decentralized exchange. He stated that the new structure gives U.S. investors a liquid and accessible way to participate in the Hyperliquid ecosystem.

Until now, most major digital asset treasuries have been concentrated in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Beyond these, only Binance and HYPE have drawn notable participation from corporate treasuries.

How digital asset treasuries are influencing HYPE

Hyperliquid Strategies and Hyperion DeFi lead the accumulation of HYPE among treasury entities. Hyperliquid Strategies holds 16.89 million HYPE, valued at about 583 million dollars at current prices. On-chain analyst Steven noted that the merger followed an earlier 265 million dollar bid for HYPE.

Source: X

Hyperion DeFi holds 1.7 million HYPE, while Lion Group Holdings recently added 194,700 HYPE. Together, treasury holdings now represent more than six percent of the circulating supply.

HYPE price overview

Following the merger update, HYPE gained nine percent and briefly extended towards a seventeen percent rebound before meeting resistance at 35 dollars. The price has since eased to around 34.4 dollars. A decisive break above 35 dollars may open the path toward 40 dollars, while renewed selling could push the token toward 30 dollars or the broader support region near 25 to 27 dollars.

Funding rates for HYPE have remained positive for six consecutive days, reflecting sustained bullish sentiment in the futures market. Price charts also show a forming “W” bottom pattern, which historically aligns with early recovery phases.

Overall, treasury demand may help stabilize downside risk for HYPE and support its recovery. However, a stronger move above resistance could depend on whether Bitcoin reclaims the 96,000 dollar level and continues higher.

The post Hyperliquid Sonnet Merger Opens Public-Market Access to HYPE first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Privacy has become one of the strongest narratives of 2025, and as the year-end approaches, interest in privacy-focused tools continues to grow. In this environment, an Ethereum developer has introduced an experimental idea: a “Secret Santa” protocol designed to let users send gifts anonymously.

This comes as part of a wider push within the Ethereum ecosystem to expand privacy features on the network. Earlier in September, the Ethereum Foundation published a comprehensive privacy roadmap covering every layer of the stack, from wallet-level protections to fully private retail and institutional payments. Already, progress is visible through frameworks like Kohaku, which is enabling private wallet operations.

Source: ethresear.ch What could Ethereum trajectory look like in 2026?

Ethereum’s development priorities for 2026 are moving across three major areas: privacy, scaling, and AI.

The network’s recent upgrades, including Pectra and Fusaka, have significantly improved throughput and reduced transaction costs. Fees have fallen to the point where Ethereum’s Layer 1 is beginning to rival some Layer 2 networks. Vitalik Buterin recently highlighted that users can build directly on L1 again due to current low fees.

The ongoing L1 vs. L2 debate

Buterin’s comments sparked discussions within the community. Blockworks analyst Dan Smith argued that L2 networks consume most of the blobspace and function much like direct competitors to L1 execution. He compared the relationship to carpenters relying on a lumber yard: both operate in the same ecosystem without always competing directly.

Other analysts pushed back, noting that both L1 and L2 solutions still compete for builders and users. Supporters of Buterin’s view, including Hasu, pointed out that distribution models naturally overlap, saying that a company can sell through its own channels while also using third-party platforms.

What remains clear is that L2 networks currently capture a large share of economic activity while contributing very little back to the mainnet. For example, Base generated more than three million dollars in fees in the last 24 hours but paid only a few thousand dollars to Ethereum L1. This imbalance is often cited as one reason why ETH’s value has struggled to keep pace with its network activity.

What comes next for Ethereum?

Whether upcoming privacy tools and scaling improvements can shift ETH’s tokenomics remains an open question. As Ethereum moves toward 2026 with new privacy initiatives and ongoing debates around economic incentives, the network’s long-term direction will likely depend on how effectively it aligns its L1 and L2 ecosystems.

The post Ethereum Developer Proposes New “Secret Santa” Privacy Protocol for Anonymous Gifting first appeared on The VR Soldier.

American Bitcoin (ABTC), the mining company co-founded by Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., saw its stock collapse nearly 50% within the first hour of trading on 2 December. The price fell from $3.58 to $1.80 before recovering slightly to close at $2.19, still down 38.83%. In after-hours trading on 3 December, the stock bounced roughly 11%, stabilizing around $2.43.

What caused the ABTC crash?

The selloff was triggered by the expiration of the company’s share lockup period, which released a large batch of previously restricted shares onto the open market. These lockups were part of the company’s transition to a public listing after its merger with Gryphon Digital Mining. Once the restrictions lifted, a flood of supply hit the market, creating sharp downward pressure on the stock.

Eric Trump responds

Eric Trump addressed the event publicly, confirming that the volatility stemmed from private placement shares becoming tradable. He emphasized that he is not selling any of his own shares and reiterated that the short-term shock was expected given the volume of newly unlocked stock.

Source: X ABTC Strong fundamentals contrast with stock volatility

Despite the steep decline, ABTC recently posted strong financial results. In the third quarter, the company reported: • Revenue of $64.2 million, up sharply from $11.6 million a year earlier • Net income of $3.5 million, a turnaround from prior losses

The company is also expanding its Bitcoin treasury, holding roughly 4,090 BTC as of mid-November.

A volatile history on the Nasdaq

Since its public debut, American Bitcoin has shown extreme price swings. Its shares surged to $9.31 in September following a $170 million investment from Dominari Holdings but then entered a prolonged decline. Even before the lockup expiry, the stock had already lost momentum. With the latest crash, ABTC now sits more than 75% below its yearly high.

Growing presence across the crypto sector

The Trump family has expanded its involvement across multiple corners of the digital asset industry. Their ventures now include mining firms, token projects, stablecoins, and cryptocurrency-related financial products through entities like World Liberty Financial.

The post ABTC Stock Plunges 40% As Lockup Expires, Eric Trump Says Volatility Was Expected first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Pepe Coin sees sharp gain but weak confirmation

Pepe Coin climbed about 14 percent in the past day, marking one of the stronger moves among memecoins during the session. Despite the jump, the token remains well below monthly and quarterly levels, keeping the rebound inside a broader downtrend.

On-chain data shows the rally did not attract support from large holders. Whale wallets and the top 100 addresses did not increase their positions. Some outflows suggested profit-taking as price moved higher. Institutional groups were also inactive, indicating limited conviction behind the move.

Retail buying drives the move

Most accumulation came from smaller retail wallets, according to exchange flow metrics. Large holders appeared to use the price strength to trim exposure, creating a divergence between retail enthusiasm and whale positioning.

Derivatives data echoed this trend. Whale traders reduced long positions, and top traders scaled back significantly during the price advance. Smart-money accounts remain net bearish, though some shifted slightly toward long positions.

Technical signals show hidden bearish pressure

Chart analysis revealed a hidden bearish divergence between late November and early December: price formed a lower high while the RSI formed a higher high. This pattern typically suggests continuation of the prevailing downtrend once short-term strength fades.

$PEPE just woke up crazy. Dropped to 0.00000395 like it was dead, then boom — full green sprint to 0.00000473. Buyers hitting hard. Watch that 0.00000480 wick. Above 0.00000462–472 = momentum alive. Slip back = cooldown. Chart saying: don’t blink bro. pic.twitter.com/LkycWw0VnW

— Mark Selby (@imMarkselby440) December 3, 2025

Analysts also noted the possibility of a developing head-and-shoulders pattern. Current trading volume has not confirmed a reversal, and the recent rally may be forming the right shoulder. Without stronger buying pressure, the setup leans bearish.

Key levels to watch

For PEPE to stabilize, it must hold nearby support levels. A confirmed reversal would require a break above resistance roughly 15 percent higher. Failure to maintain support could shift focus to the next major zone below, potentially erasing recent gains.

The disconnect between retail activity, whale behavior, and technical indicators suggests the latest rally may struggle to sustain momentum without broader market participation.

The post Pepe Coin Jumps 14% but Signals Stay Bearish first appeared on The VR Soldier.

The memecoin market continues to unravel as 2025’s expected Q4 recovery turns into a deeper sell-off. Among the hardest hit are the politically themed tokens TRUMP and MELANIA, both of which have extended their losses through the end of the year.

Steep Declines Into Year-End

Over the past month, MELANIA fell another 39%, while TRUMP dropped 32%. Year-to-date, MELANIA has collapsed by 96% to $0.11, and TRUMP is down 78% to $5.70.

With broader market conditions weakening and Bitcoin pulling back more than 30%, these memecoins may face additional downside heading into early 2026.

Memecoin Hype Fades as Market Rotates

The downturn in TRUMP and MELANIA mirrors a wider retreat across the entire memecoin segment. Following the sharp contraction in Q4, attention shifted toward privacy-focused coins, fueling strong rallies in assets such as Zcash (ZEC) while leaving memecoins behind.

Across all categories, memecoins recorded an average loss of 58% in 2025, meaning both TRUMP and MELANIA performed even worse than their already weak sector.

Market Interest Plummets

Speculative activity has dropped sharply. Total open interest in TRUMP futures has fallen 78%, from over $550 million at the start of 2025 to just $120 million in December, according to Velo.

Source: Velo

 MELANIA’s speculative interest has fallen even further, collapsing by 90%.

Shrinking open interest signals that traders are exiting the space, reallocating to other sectors, or avoiding high-volatility tokens altogether.

A Surprisingly Large Holder Base Remains

Despite the downturn, on-chain data shows over 600,000 wallets still holding TRUMP. This signals a base of users who may be waiting for a potential recovery, even as the token experiences extreme drawdowns.

MELANIA, however, appears more vulnerable if market weakness continues.

Outlook

With speculative inflows drying up, sector sentiment deteriorating, and market rotation favoring other narratives, TRUMP and MELANIA remain under pressure. Unless liquidity and interest return to the memecoin segment, further downside remains possible.

The post TRUMP and MELANIA Memecoins Slide Further, Is a Full Collapse Coming? first appeared on The VR Soldier.

China has intensified its digital-asset restrictions once again, this time focusing directly on stablecoins. In a meeting held on 28 November 2025, the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) and 13 government agencies outlined a renewed strategy aimed at closing what they view as the last major loophole in the nation’s capital-control system.

A Shift From Volatility to Control

Since Beijing’s 2021 ban, broader crypto activity has remained illegal within mainland China. But unlike Bitcoin and other volatile assets, stablecoins are pegged to fiat currencies and allow discreet cross-border value transfers, making them uniquely difficult for regulators to contain.

The PBoC reiterated that all virtual currencies lack legal tender status in China and cannot be used for payments. Officials emphasized their concerns over stablecoins’ potential role in bypassing strict capital controls, enabling unmonitored money flows, and supporting informal financial networks.

Legal experts in China said the announcement removed any ambiguity surrounding the government’s stance, marking the most explicit policy shift against stablecoins to date.

Hong Kong’s Momentum Triggers Mainland Pushback

Enthusiasm for digital assets has grown sharply in Hong Kong, especially after the region’s new stablecoin bill passed in May. That interest began to spill over into mainland China through grey-market channels, prompting Beijing to intervene.

The new directive makes it clear that even Hong Kong-approved stablecoins are considered a threat to China’s monetary system and the rollout of the e-CNY. Major Chinese tech firms, including Ant Group and JD.com, halted work on Hong Kong stablecoin initiatives after pressure from the PBoC.

China’s securities regulator also urged financial institutions to pause tokenization experiments involving real-world assets, signaling a broad, coordinated effort to curb crypto-related activity across the region.

Market Response

The impact was immediate. On 1 December, Hong Kong stocks tied to digital-asset services saw sharp declines:

Yunfeng Financial Group dropped over 10%

Bright Smart Securities fell around 7%

OSL Group, a digital-asset platform, lost more than 5%

These moves reflect investor concerns that the mainland’s stance could undermine Hong Kong’s position as a developing center for regulated digital finance.

Not a Repeat of 2021, A Targeted Operation

Unlike previous crackdowns, China’s latest action involves collaboration across 13 state agencies and focuses specifically on stablecoins. The goal appears to be eliminating any remaining channels for capital flight while preparing the groundwork for China’s own yuan-linked digital instruments.

The move also highlights a growing divergence between the digital-finance strategies of China and the United States, adding another layer to the broader geopolitical split in global finance.

The post China Launches New Crackdown on Crypto, With Stablecoins Now in the Crosshairs first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Solana ETF Ends Historic Run but Institutional Trend Holds

Solana spot ETF has posted its first daily outflow since its October launch, ending a historic 21-day run of uninterrupted inflows. Despite the pullback, the fund remains one of the fastest-growing crypto ETFs of the year, with total assets still close to $1 billion.

First Red Day After a Historic Run

New SoSoValue data recorded a –$8.1 million net outflow on 26 November, the first negative day since trading began on 28 October 2025. Before this, Solana had surpassed the launch-phase streaks of both Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, which previously capped out at 20 consecutive days of inflows.

Source: SoSoValue

The streak pushed Solana’s ETF net assets to $918 million before the recent dip, cementing it as a standout performer during a volatile market period.

Temporary Pause or Emerging Trend?

Throughout its first month, the ETF recorded multiple inflow days above $40 million, and two sessions exceeded $55 million, evidence of strong institutional appetite. The single –$8.1 million outflow is modest compared to earlier inflows and may reflect short-term rebalancing rather than a shift in structural demand.

The fund’s net assets remain close to the $1 billion mark, indicating the broader trend remains intact unless outflows continue over several weeks.

Solana Price Stabilizes After Recent Decline

Solana’s price fell sharply earlier this month, sliding from the $190–$200 range down to near $125. However, SOL has since recovered above $140, showing signs of stabilization even as the ETF logged its first outflow.

This rebound suggests that spot buyers stepped in after the nearly 30% drawdown, countering any ETF-related selling pressure.

Does the Outflow Change the Outlook?

Analysts emphasize that a single outflow does not signal a reversal of trend. ETF flows frequently fluctuate due to month-end adjustments, profit-taking, or portfolio rotation among institutional desks.

With 21 consecutive inflow days still forming the core of its launch performance, Solana’s ETF remains structurally net-positive. A return to inflows in the coming sessions would confirm that the 26 November print was likely just a brief pause.

The post Solana ETF Sees First Outflow After 21-Day Record Streak first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Grayscale Dogecoin ETF sees softer debut

Grayscale’s new spot Dogecoin ETF opened trading on NYSE Arca with roughly 1.4 million dollars in first-day volume, a level notably lower than what analysts had anticipated. Early forecasts suggested stronger demand, but trading activity did not match those projections.

According to Grayscale’s filings, the ETF launched with Dogecoin holdings and about 94,700 shares outstanding. The management fee is listed at 0.35 percent, although the sponsor has temporarily waived the charge, resulting in a zero expense ratio until the fund reaches a set asset threshold or three months pass.

Launch trails XRP and Solana ETF performance

Market data shows that the Dogecoin fund’s debut volume lagged behind the first-day activity of recently launched XRP and Solana ETFs, both of which attracted stronger inflows and more active trading.

Analysts say several factors will shape the ETF’s performance in the coming weeks. These include the effect of the temporary fee waiver on attracting assets, Dogecoin’s spot price behavior, and competition from upcoming Dogecoin ETFs, including a planned offering from Bitwise.

Grayscale Dogecoin ETF $GDOG approved for listing on NYSE, scheduled to begin trading Monday. Their XRP spot is also launching on Monday. $GLNK coming soon as well, week after I think pic.twitter.com/c6nKUeDrtI

— Eric Balchunas (@EricBalchunas) November 21, 2025

Market observers are tracking order books, creations and redemptions, and early investor behavior to gauge actual demand.

Dogecoin price shows little reaction

Dogecoin’s spot price saw minimal movement following the ETF listing. The subdued response comes during a period of frequent cryptocurrency ETF launches, with additional products expected to enter the market soon.

The post Dogecoin ETF Starts Slow on NYSE Arca first appeared on The VR Soldier.

Binance and CZ Face $1B U.S. Lawsuit Over Alleged Transaction Links to 7 October Events

A new lawsuit in the United States targets Binance and its founder, Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, accusing the exchange of enabling more than $1 billion in transactions tied to groups involved in the events of 7 October 2023. The filing does not attempt to judge the political conflict itself; instead, it focuses on whether Binance followed U.S. financial-compliance standards.

Lawsuit Targets Binance’s Past Compliance Issues

Filed in federal court in North Dakota, the civil suit represents over 300 individuals who claim that Binance and senior executive Guangying “Heina” Chen failed to properly monitor accounts connected to sanctioned organizations.

The lawsuit argues that Binance’s alleged compliance lapses pre-date the company’s 2023 U.S. Department of Justice settlement, during which the exchange admitted to historical anti–money laundering failures and paid over $4 billion in penalties. It also points to accounts that U.S. investigators previously linked to different regional networks and financial intermediaries operating across the Middle East and beyond.

Binance Allegations Focus on Movement of Funds

The 300-page complaint cites blockchain activity involving accounts associated with multiple groups the U.S. government currently designates under sanctions. These include individuals and financial middlemen based in Lebanon, Gaza, and other regions.

According to the filing, certain accounts were tied to informal money-transfer networks or exchangers, including one that the lawsuit claims moved more than $40 million through a single Binance account. The suit frames these flows as part of a broader pattern of insufficient oversight rather than direct cooperation with any group.

Attorneys involved in the case emphasize that the purpose of the litigation is to examine whether Binance maintained adequate safeguards to prevent sanctioned entities from using its platform.

Legal Commentary and Regulatory Perspective

Lawyers representing the plaintiffs argue that crypto exchanges, like traditional financial institutions, are expected to enforce compliance controls aligned with U.S. sanctions lists. They state that the lawsuit aims to test whether Binance exercised the level of due diligence required under U.S. law.

Legal experts note that this case forms part of a broader U.S. push to scrutinize financial networks operating across borders, especially when digital assets move between regions with limited regulatory alignment.

Context: CZ’s Pardon and Binance U.S. Position

The lawsuit comes shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a pardon to Changpeng Zhao, clearing his previous sentence from the 2023 DOJ case. The pardon has renewed speculation about Binance’s potential return to U.S. markets, a possibility Zhao publicly described as unexpected given the short time frame since his conviction.

What Comes Next

Binance has not yet issued a full public response to the complaint. The case is expected to test how courts interpret crypto-related compliance obligations, particularly when transactions involve regions with complex political situations and competing narratives.

While the lawsuit raises serious allegations, it remains a civil case — meaning that the court will evaluate evidence based on legal standards, not geopolitical interpretations. The outcome may influence how exchanges operating globally manage compliance, sanctions screening, and cross-border financial flows going forward.

A U.S. lawsuit accuses Binance and CZ of failing to prevent restricted accounts from moving funds tied to 7 October events, raising major compliance questions.

The post Binance and CZ Face $1B U.S. Lawsuit Over Alleged Transaction Links to 7 October Events first appeared on The VR Soldier.