Steven Walgenbach
Crypto journalist, analyst, developer and CEO | Ecoinimist founder | Interchainge founder | Twitter - @__CryptoSteve and @ecoinimist
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Polymarket’s Shift Toward “Being the House” Raises Deep Questions About Trust, Neutrality, and the Platform’s Future
Polymarket’s reported plan to create an internal market-making desk—one that would actively trade against its own users—is triggering some of the strongest backlash the prediction-market industry has seen in years. What began as a Bloomberg report has now escalated into a broader debate about ethics, transparency, and whether Polymarket risks abandoning the principles that fueled its rise during the 2024 election cycle.
For many, the move represents more than just a new monetization strategy. Bringing market-making in-house places Polymarket closer to a traditional sportsbook model—where the “house” sets prices, manages risk, and profits from edges built into the system. That is fundamentally different from the peer-to-peer structure prediction markets were meant to represent, where market prices reflect collective intelligence rather than a centralized counterparty’s incentives.
Industry voices warn that the shift could erode the trust Polymarket has built over years of positioning itself as a neutral platform. Critics argue that once the operator trades against its users, questions arise about access to privileged data, conflicts of interest, and whether markets can still be viewed as unbiased reflections of real-world probabilities. Comparisons to the FTX/Alameda dynamic—and to recent controversies at NoVig—underscore the concerns about an exchange operator also acting as a trader with inside visibility.
Supporters say the move could improve liquidity and allow for features like RFQ-priced parlays, but skeptics believe the financial upside may be small relative to Polymarket’s valuation—and the reputational risk far greater. As one expert put it, the strategy risks making the platform “look and feel just like everyone else,” stripping away the uniqueness that made prediction markets exciting in the first place.
#Polymarket #PredictionMarkets #CryptoIndustry
Polymarket’s reported plan to create an internal market-making desk—one that would actively trade against its own users—is triggering some of the strongest backlash the prediction-market industry has seen in years. What began as a Bloomberg report has now escalated into a broader debate about ethics, transparency, and whether Polymarket risks abandoning the principles that fueled its rise during the 2024 election cycle.
For many, the move represents more than just a new monetization strategy. Bringing market-making in-house places Polymarket closer to a traditional sportsbook model—where the “house” sets prices, manages risk, and profits from edges built into the system. That is fundamentally different from the peer-to-peer structure prediction markets were meant to represent, where market prices reflect collective intelligence rather than a centralized counterparty’s incentives.
Industry voices warn that the shift could erode the trust Polymarket has built over years of positioning itself as a neutral platform. Critics argue that once the operator trades against its users, questions arise about access to privileged data, conflicts of interest, and whether markets can still be viewed as unbiased reflections of real-world probabilities. Comparisons to the FTX/Alameda dynamic—and to recent controversies at NoVig—underscore the concerns about an exchange operator also acting as a trader with inside visibility.
Supporters say the move could improve liquidity and allow for features like RFQ-priced parlays, but skeptics believe the financial upside may be small relative to Polymarket’s valuation—and the reputational risk far greater. As one expert put it, the strategy risks making the platform “look and feel just like everyone else,” stripping away the uniqueness that made prediction markets exciting in the first place.
#Polymarket #PredictionMarkets #CryptoIndustry
Cantor’s 60% Target Cut Still Leaves Strategy a Buy — Here’s Why Analysts Aren’t Worried
Cantor Fitzgerald’s sharply reduced price target for Strategy hasn’t shaken its long-term conviction. Despite slashing the 12-month target from $560 to $229, analysts reaffirmed a “buy” rating and dismissed fears of forced Bitcoin liquidation as overstated.
They argue Strategy has enough cash to cover obligations for nearly two years and can raise additional capital through existing equity facilities, making a fire sale of its Bitcoin treasury unlikely unless BTC collapses by 90% — a scenario Cantor deems remote.
The firm also weighed near-term risks, including potential MSCI index expulsions for companies holding large digital asset positions, which could lead to forced selling from passive funds. Still, Cantor emphasized that these pressures don’t change its long-term outlook.
Analysts remain bullish on both Strategy and Bitcoin, reiterating their thesis that BTC could eventually surpass gold’s market cap — a milestone that would require a price of roughly $1.58M per coin. Even with Strategy’s stock down double digits year-to-date, Cantor sees the pullback as an opportunity rather than a red flag, framing the company as financially resilient and strategically positioned for upside as digital asset markets mature.
#Strategy #MSTR #Bitcoin $BTC
Cantor Fitzgerald’s sharply reduced price target for Strategy hasn’t shaken its long-term conviction. Despite slashing the 12-month target from $560 to $229, analysts reaffirmed a “buy” rating and dismissed fears of forced Bitcoin liquidation as overstated.
They argue Strategy has enough cash to cover obligations for nearly two years and can raise additional capital through existing equity facilities, making a fire sale of its Bitcoin treasury unlikely unless BTC collapses by 90% — a scenario Cantor deems remote.
The firm also weighed near-term risks, including potential MSCI index expulsions for companies holding large digital asset positions, which could lead to forced selling from passive funds. Still, Cantor emphasized that these pressures don’t change its long-term outlook.
Analysts remain bullish on both Strategy and Bitcoin, reiterating their thesis that BTC could eventually surpass gold’s market cap — a milestone that would require a price of roughly $1.58M per coin. Even with Strategy’s stock down double digits year-to-date, Cantor sees the pullback as an opportunity rather than a red flag, framing the company as financially resilient and strategically positioned for upside as digital asset markets mature.
#Strategy #MSTR #Bitcoin $BTC
EU Moves Toward a Single Crypto Watchdog as ESMA Poised for Expanded Authority
A major shift in Europe’s regulatory landscape may be underway as the European Commission proposes granting ESMA direct supervisory power over crypto companies across the EU.
The initiative aims to end fragmented national oversight, strengthen MiCA’s consistency, and build a more unified financial market capable of competing globally. If adopted, ESMA could evolve into the EU’s closest equivalent to an SEC-style regulator—centralizing enforcement, reducing regulatory arbitrage, and creating a clearer framework for firms operating across all 27 member states.
The Commission argues that Europe’s financial markets remain too fragmented to achieve meaningful scale, and divergent interpretations of MiCA among national regulators have already raised concerns.
By consolidating oversight under ESMA, the EU hopes to streamline compliance, protect investors more effectively, and foster innovation without the friction of a patchwork supervisory environment. As the proposal gains momentum, the crypto industry is watching closely: a unified regulator could reshape market dynamics, elevate regulatory expectations, and set the tone for Europe’s next phase of digital asset growth.
#ESMA #MiCA #CryptoRegulation
A major shift in Europe’s regulatory landscape may be underway as the European Commission proposes granting ESMA direct supervisory power over crypto companies across the EU.
The initiative aims to end fragmented national oversight, strengthen MiCA’s consistency, and build a more unified financial market capable of competing globally. If adopted, ESMA could evolve into the EU’s closest equivalent to an SEC-style regulator—centralizing enforcement, reducing regulatory arbitrage, and creating a clearer framework for firms operating across all 27 member states.
The Commission argues that Europe’s financial markets remain too fragmented to achieve meaningful scale, and divergent interpretations of MiCA among national regulators have already raised concerns.
By consolidating oversight under ESMA, the EU hopes to streamline compliance, protect investors more effectively, and foster innovation without the friction of a patchwork supervisory environment. As the proposal gains momentum, the crypto industry is watching closely: a unified regulator could reshape market dynamics, elevate regulatory expectations, and set the tone for Europe’s next phase of digital asset growth.
#ESMA #MiCA #CryptoRegulation
AlphaTON’s $420M Bet on AI and Toncoin Signals Bold Expansion Amid Market Volatility
AlphaTON Capital is stepping into a new league of ambition with its $420.69M shelf registration, positioning the small-cap firm for one of the largest fundraising pushes ever attempted by a micro-cap blockchain treasury. The move follows AlphaTON’s exit from SEC “baby-shelf” restrictions, giving the company the legal ability to raise capital at a scale typically reserved for mid-cap tech players.
The new registration arrives at a moment of heightened volatility for #ATON stock, which slumped 64% over the past month but saw a sharp rebound in investor interest immediately after the announcement. With a market cap of roughly $13M and a treasury holding more than 12.8M #TON tokens, AlphaTON’s expansion plan has caught industry attention for both its scale and timing.
If successful, the capital raise would fund major strategic initiatives: expanding GPU infrastructure for Cocoom AI, acquiring revenue-generating apps across the Telegram ecosystem, and increasing the company’s Toncoin reserves. These initiatives signal a deeper integration into TON’s fast-growing ecosystem as well as a bet on AI-driven network activity as a core business model.
The announcement also comes as digital asset treasuries face their weakest inflows of the year—making AlphaTON’s aggressive approach a notable outlier in a cooling market. Despite wider macro uncertainty, the firm’s long-term vision appears focused on capturing demand for AI compute, decentralized app ecosystems, and strategic TON-aligned assets.
With investors reassessing opportunities across blockchain and AI infrastructure, AlphaTON’s next phase will test whether a micro-cap firm can scale into a major Toncoin ecosystem player through ambition, timing, and access to capital.
#AlphaTON #Toncoin #AI $TON
AlphaTON Capital is stepping into a new league of ambition with its $420.69M shelf registration, positioning the small-cap firm for one of the largest fundraising pushes ever attempted by a micro-cap blockchain treasury. The move follows AlphaTON’s exit from SEC “baby-shelf” restrictions, giving the company the legal ability to raise capital at a scale typically reserved for mid-cap tech players.
The new registration arrives at a moment of heightened volatility for #ATON stock, which slumped 64% over the past month but saw a sharp rebound in investor interest immediately after the announcement. With a market cap of roughly $13M and a treasury holding more than 12.8M #TON tokens, AlphaTON’s expansion plan has caught industry attention for both its scale and timing.
If successful, the capital raise would fund major strategic initiatives: expanding GPU infrastructure for Cocoom AI, acquiring revenue-generating apps across the Telegram ecosystem, and increasing the company’s Toncoin reserves. These initiatives signal a deeper integration into TON’s fast-growing ecosystem as well as a bet on AI-driven network activity as a core business model.
The announcement also comes as digital asset treasuries face their weakest inflows of the year—making AlphaTON’s aggressive approach a notable outlier in a cooling market. Despite wider macro uncertainty, the firm’s long-term vision appears focused on capturing demand for AI compute, decentralized app ecosystems, and strategic TON-aligned assets.
With investors reassessing opportunities across blockchain and AI infrastructure, AlphaTON’s next phase will test whether a micro-cap firm can scale into a major Toncoin ecosystem player through ambition, timing, and access to capital.
#AlphaTON #Toncoin #AI $TON
ZEC Attempts a Comeback as Momentum Improves — but Heavy Sell Walls Keep Bulls Under Pressure
Zcash is showing the first real signs of stabilization after weeks of aggressive downside, with momentum indicators finally easing and buyers beginning to re-enter the market. On the 1-day chart, ZEC has lifted modestly from its recent lows, and both RSI and MACD are signaling that bearish intensity is softening. But despite this improvement, the broader trend remains firmly bearish — and multiple heavy sell walls continue to cap any attempt at meaningful upside.
Order-book data paints a clear picture of a market in transition. Strong bid clusters around the mid-$380s and low-$370s show that buyers are defending key levels, yet the resistance above remains substantial. ZEC faces major liquidity barriers at $410, $420, and $421.51 — zones that have repeatedly rejected bullish advances and will require significant buying momentum to break. Until those areas are cleared, any rebound risks being short-lived.
Structurally, ZEC is still trading far below its short- and medium-term moving averages, a reminder of how deep the recent downtrend has been. For bullish sentiment to truly take hold, the price must reclaim multiple layers of resistance and demonstrate sustained strength above the EMA stack. Bears, meanwhile, remain in control unless ZEC can meaningfully break out of this compression zone.
For traders, ZEC’s setup offers opportunities on both sides: long entries become more attractive if the price can clear the dense sell wall region, while failed rallies or breakdowns below the $383–$372 support zone could create high-conviction short setups.
Zcash may be stabilizing — but the burden of proof is still on the bulls. Until liquidity barriers thin and structural trends shift, ZEC remains in a cautious transition phase rather than a confirmed reversal.
#Zcash #CryptoMarkets #TechnicalAnalysis $ZEC
Zcash is showing the first real signs of stabilization after weeks of aggressive downside, with momentum indicators finally easing and buyers beginning to re-enter the market. On the 1-day chart, ZEC has lifted modestly from its recent lows, and both RSI and MACD are signaling that bearish intensity is softening. But despite this improvement, the broader trend remains firmly bearish — and multiple heavy sell walls continue to cap any attempt at meaningful upside.
Order-book data paints a clear picture of a market in transition. Strong bid clusters around the mid-$380s and low-$370s show that buyers are defending key levels, yet the resistance above remains substantial. ZEC faces major liquidity barriers at $410, $420, and $421.51 — zones that have repeatedly rejected bullish advances and will require significant buying momentum to break. Until those areas are cleared, any rebound risks being short-lived.
Structurally, ZEC is still trading far below its short- and medium-term moving averages, a reminder of how deep the recent downtrend has been. For bullish sentiment to truly take hold, the price must reclaim multiple layers of resistance and demonstrate sustained strength above the EMA stack. Bears, meanwhile, remain in control unless ZEC can meaningfully break out of this compression zone.
For traders, ZEC’s setup offers opportunities on both sides: long entries become more attractive if the price can clear the dense sell wall region, while failed rallies or breakdowns below the $383–$372 support zone could create high-conviction short setups.
Zcash may be stabilizing — but the burden of proof is still on the bulls. Until liquidity barriers thin and structural trends shift, ZEC remains in a cautious transition phase rather than a confirmed reversal.
#Zcash #CryptoMarkets #TechnicalAnalysis $ZEC
Wall Street Backs Canton Network as Digital Asset Secures New Strategic Investments
Digital Asset has strengthened its position at the center of institutional blockchain adoption, announcing new strategic investments from BNY, Nasdaq, S&P Global, and iCapital. The backing from these major Wall Street players underscores the accelerating shift toward tokenization and regulated blockchain infrastructure across global finance.
With more than $6 trillion in assets already represented onchain and over 600 institutions participating, the Canton Network is rapidly emerging as a leading platform for tokenized real-world assets. Designed to meet the privacy, compliance, and settlement needs of regulated markets, Canton is capturing the attention of firms looking to modernize workflows and build the next generation of financial products on blockchain rails.
#Tokenization #InstitutionalCrypto #WallStreet
Digital Asset has strengthened its position at the center of institutional blockchain adoption, announcing new strategic investments from BNY, Nasdaq, S&P Global, and iCapital. The backing from these major Wall Street players underscores the accelerating shift toward tokenization and regulated blockchain infrastructure across global finance.
With more than $6 trillion in assets already represented onchain and over 600 institutions participating, the Canton Network is rapidly emerging as a leading platform for tokenized real-world assets. Designed to meet the privacy, compliance, and settlement needs of regulated markets, Canton is capturing the attention of firms looking to modernize workflows and build the next generation of financial products on blockchain rails.
#Tokenization #InstitutionalCrypto #WallStreet
Ripple’s Brad Garlinghouse Makes Bold Call: Bitcoin to Hit $180K by 2026
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has issued one of the strongest price predictions of the cycle, forecasting Bitcoin will reach $180,000 by the end of 2026 — a target he ties directly to long-awaited regulatory clarity in the United States. Speaking at Binance Blockchain Week, Garlinghouse argued that progress on the proposed CLARITY Act could unlock new institutional tailwinds and reshape market dynamics.
While prediction markets remain skeptical and other leaders offered more conservative outlooks, sentiment across trading desks has turned increasingly bullish as Bitcoin rebounds above $92K. Garlinghouse’s call adds fresh momentum to the growing debate over where BTC is headed next — and how much regulatory reform could accelerate its next major breakout.
#Bitcoin #CryptoNews #Blockchain $BTC #Ripple
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has issued one of the strongest price predictions of the cycle, forecasting Bitcoin will reach $180,000 by the end of 2026 — a target he ties directly to long-awaited regulatory clarity in the United States. Speaking at Binance Blockchain Week, Garlinghouse argued that progress on the proposed CLARITY Act could unlock new institutional tailwinds and reshape market dynamics.
While prediction markets remain skeptical and other leaders offered more conservative outlooks, sentiment across trading desks has turned increasingly bullish as Bitcoin rebounds above $92K. Garlinghouse’s call adds fresh momentum to the growing debate over where BTC is headed next — and how much regulatory reform could accelerate its next major breakout.
#Bitcoin #CryptoNews #Blockchain $BTC #Ripple
CNBC Brings Prediction Markets to Prime Time With New Kalshi Partnership
CNBC has taken a major step toward mainstreaming prediction markets through a multi-year partnership with Kalshi that will integrate real-time forecasting data across its TV programming, digital platforms, and subscription products beginning in 2026. The move brings market-priced probabilities directly into shows like Squawk Box and Fast Money, offering audiences a continuous stream of forward-looking insights on elections, economic releases, and major global events.
The partnership lands at a pivotal moment for the forecasting industry, with Kalshi expanding aggressively across media and Polymarket securing high-profile partnerships with DraftKings, PrizePicks, and UFC. Together, these developments signal a broader shift in financial journalism as newsrooms turn to market-based probabilities to complement traditional analysis.
#PredictionMarkets #Kalshi #FinancialMedia
CNBC has taken a major step toward mainstreaming prediction markets through a multi-year partnership with Kalshi that will integrate real-time forecasting data across its TV programming, digital platforms, and subscription products beginning in 2026. The move brings market-priced probabilities directly into shows like Squawk Box and Fast Money, offering audiences a continuous stream of forward-looking insights on elections, economic releases, and major global events.
The partnership lands at a pivotal moment for the forecasting industry, with Kalshi expanding aggressively across media and Polymarket securing high-profile partnerships with DraftKings, PrizePicks, and UFC. Together, these developments signal a broader shift in financial journalism as newsrooms turn to market-based probabilities to complement traditional analysis.
#PredictionMarkets #Kalshi #FinancialMedia
BTC Holds Steady as CZ Outshines Schiff and Bitwise Calms Strategy Selloff Fears
Bitcoin is finding its footing at a critical support zone just as the broader market narrative tilts in its favor. At Binance Blockchain Week, CZ’s gold-verification challenge left Peter Schiff unable to confirm the authenticity of a 1kg gold bar — a viral moment that reignited the debate over Bitcoin’s superiority as a trust-minimized store of value.
At the same time, Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan reassured investors that Strategy is under no pressure to unwind its $60B Bitcoin treasury, calling fears of a forced selloff “flat wrong.” Together, these developments strengthen Bitcoin’s market positioning at a pivotal moment, with technical signals stabilizing and sentiment beginning to shift toward a more constructive outlook.
#Bitcoin #CryptoNews #MarketAnalysis $BTC #BinanceBlockchainWeek
Bitcoin is finding its footing at a critical support zone just as the broader market narrative tilts in its favor. At Binance Blockchain Week, CZ’s gold-verification challenge left Peter Schiff unable to confirm the authenticity of a 1kg gold bar — a viral moment that reignited the debate over Bitcoin’s superiority as a trust-minimized store of value.
At the same time, Bitwise CIO Matt Hougan reassured investors that Strategy is under no pressure to unwind its $60B Bitcoin treasury, calling fears of a forced selloff “flat wrong.” Together, these developments strengthen Bitcoin’s market positioning at a pivotal moment, with technical signals stabilizing and sentiment beginning to shift toward a more constructive outlook.
#Bitcoin #CryptoNews #MarketAnalysis $BTC #BinanceBlockchainWeek
IMF Warns Stablecoins Could Undermine Monetary Sovereignty Worldwide
The IMF has issued a sweeping warning about the rapid global rise of dollar-backed stablecoins, cautioning that widespread adoption — especially in emerging markets — could erode monetary sovereignty and weaken central bank control.
In its new 56-page report, the IMF argues that stablecoins make it easier than ever for individuals to shift into digital dollars without banks, accelerating “currency substitution” and diminishing a nation’s ability to manage liquidity, interest rates, and financial stability. With stablecoin use rising across inflation-hit regions and regulators divided on the risks and benefits, the IMF says the future of monetary sovereignty may depend on how quickly governments establish clear rules, launch competitive CBDCs, and adapt to a digital-first financial system.
#Stablecoins #IMF #MonetaryPolicy
The IMF has issued a sweeping warning about the rapid global rise of dollar-backed stablecoins, cautioning that widespread adoption — especially in emerging markets — could erode monetary sovereignty and weaken central bank control.
In its new 56-page report, the IMF argues that stablecoins make it easier than ever for individuals to shift into digital dollars without banks, accelerating “currency substitution” and diminishing a nation’s ability to manage liquidity, interest rates, and financial stability. With stablecoin use rising across inflation-hit regions and regulators divided on the risks and benefits, the IMF says the future of monetary sovereignty may depend on how quickly governments establish clear rules, launch competitive CBDCs, and adapt to a digital-first financial system.
#Stablecoins #IMF #MonetaryPolicy
Sovereign Funds Quietly Buying the Bitcoin Dip, Says Larry Fink
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has revealed a major development in global Bitcoin adoption: multiple sovereign wealth funds were quietly accumulating BTC throughout the recent market pullback, adding positions at $120K, $100K and even more aggressively as the price dipped into the $80K range. Speaking at the New York Times DealBook Summit, Fink said these state-backed entities are not trading the volatility — they’re building long-term strategic positions in Bitcoin.
Fink noted that sovereign funds are increasingly viewing BTC as a multi-decade hedge against rising government debt, inflation, and currency debasement. This aligns with earlier disclosures from funds such as Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala and Luxembourg’s national investment arm, both of which have begun accessing Bitcoin exposure through U.S. spot ETFs like BlackRock’s IBIT. What stands out now, Fink emphasized, is the scale and timing of this buying: major government-controlled investors were stepping in precisely as retail sentiment weakened and Bitcoin dropped below $90,000.
The trend highlights how Bitcoin is evolving from a speculative asset into a structural allocation within global portfolios. With sovereign wealth funds collectively managing more than $10 trillion in assets, even small percentage allocations can reshape market flows and add stability during periods of volatility. Fink’s remarks also underscore his own shift from skeptic to advocate, as BlackRock’s IBIT ETF has become the firm’s most successful launch and a gateway for institutional adoption on a global scale.
For analysts and policymakers, the message is clear: nation-state investment vehicles are no longer observing Bitcoin from the sidelines — they’re actively accumulating, using market downturns to build long-term exposure that aligns with their macroeconomic outlook.
#Bitcoin #InstitutionalInvesting #SovereignWealthFunds $BTC
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has revealed a major development in global Bitcoin adoption: multiple sovereign wealth funds were quietly accumulating BTC throughout the recent market pullback, adding positions at $120K, $100K and even more aggressively as the price dipped into the $80K range. Speaking at the New York Times DealBook Summit, Fink said these state-backed entities are not trading the volatility — they’re building long-term strategic positions in Bitcoin.
Fink noted that sovereign funds are increasingly viewing BTC as a multi-decade hedge against rising government debt, inflation, and currency debasement. This aligns with earlier disclosures from funds such as Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala and Luxembourg’s national investment arm, both of which have begun accessing Bitcoin exposure through U.S. spot ETFs like BlackRock’s IBIT. What stands out now, Fink emphasized, is the scale and timing of this buying: major government-controlled investors were stepping in precisely as retail sentiment weakened and Bitcoin dropped below $90,000.
The trend highlights how Bitcoin is evolving from a speculative asset into a structural allocation within global portfolios. With sovereign wealth funds collectively managing more than $10 trillion in assets, even small percentage allocations can reshape market flows and add stability during periods of volatility. Fink’s remarks also underscore his own shift from skeptic to advocate, as BlackRock’s IBIT ETF has become the firm’s most successful launch and a gateway for institutional adoption on a global scale.
For analysts and policymakers, the message is clear: nation-state investment vehicles are no longer observing Bitcoin from the sidelines — they’re actively accumulating, using market downturns to build long-term exposure that aligns with their macroeconomic outlook.
#Bitcoin #InstitutionalInvesting #SovereignWealthFunds $BTC
CryptoQuant Warns Strategy Is Bracing for a Long Bitcoin Bear Market
CryptoQuant has raised the alarm after Strategy’s Bitcoin buying collapsed in 2025, falling from a peak of 134,000 BTC per month in late 2024 to just 9,100 BTC in November — and only 135 BTC so far this month. Analysts say the sharp pullback, paired with the company’s move to build a 24-month cash buffer, shows Strategy is preparing for a prolonged bear market and tightening financial conditions across the sector.
The slowdown comes as Strategy faces potential exclusion from major stock indexes under MSCI’s proposed crypto asset rules, along with renewed pressure on its balance sheet and debt obligations. Despite one large November purchase, analysts say the company’s broader shift signals caution ahead of a challenging period for Bitcoin-linked equities.
#Bitcoin #CryptoMarkets #DigitalAssets $BTC
CryptoQuant has raised the alarm after Strategy’s Bitcoin buying collapsed in 2025, falling from a peak of 134,000 BTC per month in late 2024 to just 9,100 BTC in November — and only 135 BTC so far this month. Analysts say the sharp pullback, paired with the company’s move to build a 24-month cash buffer, shows Strategy is preparing for a prolonged bear market and tightening financial conditions across the sector.
The slowdown comes as Strategy faces potential exclusion from major stock indexes under MSCI’s proposed crypto asset rules, along with renewed pressure on its balance sheet and debt obligations. Despite one large November purchase, analysts say the company’s broader shift signals caution ahead of a challenging period for Bitcoin-linked equities.
#Bitcoin #CryptoMarkets #DigitalAssets $BTC
CZ Expands His Reach as BNB Chain Pushes Deeper Into Prediction Markets
BNB Chain is accelerating its push into decentralized forecasting as CZ unveils a new prediction platform and Trust Wallet rolls out prediction trading to its 220 million users — a major expansion that strengthens the network’s position in one of crypto’s fastest-growing sectors.
CZ highlighted the new BNB Chain prediction platform on X, noting its unique yield-generating feature that lets user funds earn returns while markets resolve. The project is backed by YZiLabs, which manages more than $10 billion and recently launched a $1 billion ecosystem fund focused on DeFi, RWA tokenization, wallets, AI, and payments. While CZ included a disclaimer saying the project’s founder is a former Binance employee, his visibility still gives the platform immediate reach.
The momentum continued as Trust Wallet released its Predictions feature, integrating Web3 protocol Myriad to allow users to trade on political outcomes, sports events, market moves, and other real-world questions directly inside the app. The upgrade transforms Trust Wallet from a simple storage tool into a full-stack DeFi platform — and positions it more competitively against MetaMask as wallets evolve into multi-purpose trading hubs.
These updates build on October’s major integrations, including BNB Chain’s connection to Polymarket and the debut of the Opinion mainnet, both of which helped drive record prediction market volumes. Opinion Labs — backed by YZiLabs and supported by investors like Animoca Ventures and Amber Group — is building core infrastructure for uncensored forecasting, hedging tools, and prediction-driven data insights on BNB Chain.
$BNB #PredictionMarkets #Web3
BNB Chain is accelerating its push into decentralized forecasting as CZ unveils a new prediction platform and Trust Wallet rolls out prediction trading to its 220 million users — a major expansion that strengthens the network’s position in one of crypto’s fastest-growing sectors.
CZ highlighted the new BNB Chain prediction platform on X, noting its unique yield-generating feature that lets user funds earn returns while markets resolve. The project is backed by YZiLabs, which manages more than $10 billion and recently launched a $1 billion ecosystem fund focused on DeFi, RWA tokenization, wallets, AI, and payments. While CZ included a disclaimer saying the project’s founder is a former Binance employee, his visibility still gives the platform immediate reach.
The momentum continued as Trust Wallet released its Predictions feature, integrating Web3 protocol Myriad to allow users to trade on political outcomes, sports events, market moves, and other real-world questions directly inside the app. The upgrade transforms Trust Wallet from a simple storage tool into a full-stack DeFi platform — and positions it more competitively against MetaMask as wallets evolve into multi-purpose trading hubs.
These updates build on October’s major integrations, including BNB Chain’s connection to Polymarket and the debut of the Opinion mainnet, both of which helped drive record prediction market volumes. Opinion Labs — backed by YZiLabs and supported by investors like Animoca Ventures and Amber Group — is building core infrastructure for uncensored forecasting, hedging tools, and prediction-driven data insights on BNB Chain.
$BNB #PredictionMarkets #Web3
Ethereum’s Fusaka Upgrade Marks a Major Leap in 2025 Scaling Efforts
Ethereum activated its highly anticipated Fusaka upgrade this week, introducing the PeerDAS system and more than a dozen additional EIPs aimed at boosting network efficiency, lowering validator overhead, and supporting the rapidly growing layer-2 ecosystem. The hard fork went live smoothly at 21:49 UTC and finalized minutes later, with core developers joining the EthStaker livestream to mark the milestone.
Fusaka combines coordinated changes to both Ethereum’s execution and consensus layers, targeting the heavy data burdens created by layer-2 rollups that submit large transaction blobs to the mainnet. PeerDAS allows validators to verify small slices of these blobs instead of downloading them in full, easing congestion and reducing processing costs for both validators and L2 networks.
Developers say the benefits will unfold over the coming months as blob capacity is gradually increased to ensure network stability. The update also lowers entry barriers for smaller validator operators while enhancing long-term scalability for the broader ecosystem. Fidelity Digital Assets recently described Fusaka as a decisive step toward a more coherent and strategically aligned roadmap for Ethereum — a sign of traditional finance paying close attention.
Alongside PeerDAS, the upgrade includes 12 additional EIPs focused on improving network hygiene, stability, gas efficiency, and future upgrade flexibility. With Fusaka complete, developers have already begun early planning for Ethereum’s next major upgrade, Glamsterdam.
#Ethereum #Blockchain #CryptoNews $ETH
Ethereum activated its highly anticipated Fusaka upgrade this week, introducing the PeerDAS system and more than a dozen additional EIPs aimed at boosting network efficiency, lowering validator overhead, and supporting the rapidly growing layer-2 ecosystem. The hard fork went live smoothly at 21:49 UTC and finalized minutes later, with core developers joining the EthStaker livestream to mark the milestone.
Fusaka combines coordinated changes to both Ethereum’s execution and consensus layers, targeting the heavy data burdens created by layer-2 rollups that submit large transaction blobs to the mainnet. PeerDAS allows validators to verify small slices of these blobs instead of downloading them in full, easing congestion and reducing processing costs for both validators and L2 networks.
Developers say the benefits will unfold over the coming months as blob capacity is gradually increased to ensure network stability. The update also lowers entry barriers for smaller validator operators while enhancing long-term scalability for the broader ecosystem. Fidelity Digital Assets recently described Fusaka as a decisive step toward a more coherent and strategically aligned roadmap for Ethereum — a sign of traditional finance paying close attention.
Alongside PeerDAS, the upgrade includes 12 additional EIPs focused on improving network hygiene, stability, gas efficiency, and future upgrade flexibility. With Fusaka complete, developers have already begun early planning for Ethereum’s next major upgrade, Glamsterdam.
#Ethereum #Blockchain #CryptoNews $ETH
Connecticut Escalates the Fight Over Prediction Markets
Connecticut has issued cease-and-desist orders to Robinhood, Kalshi and Crypto.com, accusing the platforms of offering unlicensed sports event contracts to state residents and operating as unauthorized sportsbooks. Regulators said the companies must immediately halt all advertising and availability of these markets, warning that failure to comply could lead to civil or criminal penalties.
The companies pushed back, arguing that their event contracts fall under exclusive federal oversight through the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, not state gambling law. Robinhood emphasized its CFTC-registered entity, while Kalshi said it operates as a fully regulated nationwide exchange and has already filed suit in federal court. Crypto.com did not immediately comment.
Connecticut’s move comes as similar disputes unfold across the country, including an ongoing legal fight between Kalshi and New York. A recent Nevada court ruling also complicated the regulatory landscape by affirming state authority over certain sports-based contracts, raising new questions for the industry.
The enforcement action landed on the same day Polymarket expanded app access to more than 20 U.S. states, underscoring how rapidly the prediction market sector is evolving despite intensifying regulatory scrutiny.
#PredictionMarkets #CryptoNews #Regulation
Connecticut has issued cease-and-desist orders to Robinhood, Kalshi and Crypto.com, accusing the platforms of offering unlicensed sports event contracts to state residents and operating as unauthorized sportsbooks. Regulators said the companies must immediately halt all advertising and availability of these markets, warning that failure to comply could lead to civil or criminal penalties.
The companies pushed back, arguing that their event contracts fall under exclusive federal oversight through the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, not state gambling law. Robinhood emphasized its CFTC-registered entity, while Kalshi said it operates as a fully regulated nationwide exchange and has already filed suit in federal court. Crypto.com did not immediately comment.
Connecticut’s move comes as similar disputes unfold across the country, including an ongoing legal fight between Kalshi and New York. A recent Nevada court ruling also complicated the regulatory landscape by affirming state authority over certain sports-based contracts, raising new questions for the industry.
The enforcement action landed on the same day Polymarket expanded app access to more than 20 U.S. states, underscoring how rapidly the prediction market sector is evolving despite intensifying regulatory scrutiny.
#PredictionMarkets #CryptoNews #Regulation
XRP ETFs Are Becoming Wall Street’s New Breakout Category
The surge into U.S. spot XRP ETFs is accelerating at a pace rarely seen in digital-asset markets. In just 12 trading days, these products have attracted nearly $845 million in net inflows — the fastest growth rate recorded by any major U.S. crypto ETF to date. The momentum positions XRP ETFs on the cusp of the $1 billion AUM milestone, a threshold widely viewed as a catalyst for deeper institutional participation and broader recognition within traditional finance.
This early success is already reshaping expectations across the ETF ecosystem. Strong, uninterrupted inflows since launch highlight a clear appetite for regulated exposure to XRP, especially among investors seeking diversification beyond Bitcoin and Ether. Data from SoSoValue shows multiple high-volume inflow days, including sessions that pulled in more than $80 million, reinforcing the narrative that this is not a one-off surge but a sustained accumulation trend.
Institutional interest is building in parallel. Filings from Fidelity, Franklin Templeton, and Invesco to list their own spot XRP ETFs signal that major asset managers are preparing to enter the space, reflecting growing confidence in XRP’s regulatory clarity and market maturity. Their involvement suggests the next wave of inflows may be driven by wealth platforms, advisory networks, and institutional allocators once liquidity deepens and AUM crosses key benchmarks.
Early trading performance supports this trajectory. Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas highlighted the exceptional debut of $XRPC, which posted the highest day-one trading volume of any ETF launched this year. Combined with steady, positive flows across the board, the launch phase of these funds is already being viewed as a standout moment in the evolution of crypto-linked investment products.
#XRP #DigitalAssets $XRP #ETFs
The surge into U.S. spot XRP ETFs is accelerating at a pace rarely seen in digital-asset markets. In just 12 trading days, these products have attracted nearly $845 million in net inflows — the fastest growth rate recorded by any major U.S. crypto ETF to date. The momentum positions XRP ETFs on the cusp of the $1 billion AUM milestone, a threshold widely viewed as a catalyst for deeper institutional participation and broader recognition within traditional finance.
This early success is already reshaping expectations across the ETF ecosystem. Strong, uninterrupted inflows since launch highlight a clear appetite for regulated exposure to XRP, especially among investors seeking diversification beyond Bitcoin and Ether. Data from SoSoValue shows multiple high-volume inflow days, including sessions that pulled in more than $80 million, reinforcing the narrative that this is not a one-off surge but a sustained accumulation trend.
Institutional interest is building in parallel. Filings from Fidelity, Franklin Templeton, and Invesco to list their own spot XRP ETFs signal that major asset managers are preparing to enter the space, reflecting growing confidence in XRP’s regulatory clarity and market maturity. Their involvement suggests the next wave of inflows may be driven by wealth platforms, advisory networks, and institutional allocators once liquidity deepens and AUM crosses key benchmarks.
Early trading performance supports this trajectory. Bloomberg’s Eric Balchunas highlighted the exceptional debut of $XRPC, which posted the highest day-one trading volume of any ETF launched this year. Combined with steady, positive flows across the board, the launch phase of these funds is already being viewed as a standout moment in the evolution of crypto-linked investment products.
#XRP #DigitalAssets $XRP #ETFs
Bitcoin’s Settlement Breakout Reshapes the Global Payments Landscape
Glassnode’s latest report marks one of the clearest indicators yet that global value transfer is shifting beyond traditional rails. Over the past 90 days, Bitcoin settled an extraordinary $6.9 trillion — effectively matching the combined quarterly volume of Visa and Mastercard. It’s a milestone that places Bitcoin in the same conversation as the world’s largest payment processors, even as much of its activity continues to center on investment flows, remittances, and institutional movement rather than everyday consumer spending.
The data also highlights a deeper structural change. Even after removing internal wallet movements and consolidating transfers between entities, Bitcoin’s economic settlement for the quarter still totals roughly $870 billion, or about $7.8 billion per day. Glassnode notes this adjusted figure as a sign of Bitcoin’s growing relevance as a global settlement network, capable of moving high-value transactions outside traditional banking infrastructure.
Meanwhile, USD-pegged stablecoins are carving out their own lane in the international payments ecosystem. With the top five stablecoins now transferring more than $200 billion per day on a 30-day moving average, they’ve become essential liquidity tools across trading, remittances, and DeFi. But not all activity is equal: new research shows that nearly 70% of stablecoin volume is driven by automated bot flows, with only a fraction reflecting genuine human or business-driven payments. Policymakers and regulators are watching that distinction closely as they assess real-world adoption and systemic risk.
Together, Bitcoin and stablecoins are forming a parallel, rapidly maturing settlement system — one that operates 24/7, moves freely across borders, and increasingly competes directly with the legacy financial networks that have dominated global payments for decades.
#Bitcoin #DigitalAssets #BlockchainEconomy
Glassnode’s latest report marks one of the clearest indicators yet that global value transfer is shifting beyond traditional rails. Over the past 90 days, Bitcoin settled an extraordinary $6.9 trillion — effectively matching the combined quarterly volume of Visa and Mastercard. It’s a milestone that places Bitcoin in the same conversation as the world’s largest payment processors, even as much of its activity continues to center on investment flows, remittances, and institutional movement rather than everyday consumer spending.
The data also highlights a deeper structural change. Even after removing internal wallet movements and consolidating transfers between entities, Bitcoin’s economic settlement for the quarter still totals roughly $870 billion, or about $7.8 billion per day. Glassnode notes this adjusted figure as a sign of Bitcoin’s growing relevance as a global settlement network, capable of moving high-value transactions outside traditional banking infrastructure.
Meanwhile, USD-pegged stablecoins are carving out their own lane in the international payments ecosystem. With the top five stablecoins now transferring more than $200 billion per day on a 30-day moving average, they’ve become essential liquidity tools across trading, remittances, and DeFi. But not all activity is equal: new research shows that nearly 70% of stablecoin volume is driven by automated bot flows, with only a fraction reflecting genuine human or business-driven payments. Policymakers and regulators are watching that distinction closely as they assess real-world adoption and systemic risk.
Together, Bitcoin and stablecoins are forming a parallel, rapidly maturing settlement system — one that operates 24/7, moves freely across borders, and increasingly competes directly with the legacy financial networks that have dominated global payments for decades.
#Bitcoin #DigitalAssets #BlockchainEconomy
ICP Faces Mounting Pressure as Key Liquidity Walls Shape Its Next Move
Internet Computer (ICP) remains under sustained bearish momentum on the 1D chart, struggling to reclaim short-term trend levels as sellers continue to dominate. Despite attempts to stabilize in the mid-$3 range, the price remains pinned below both the 9-day and 20-day EMAs, reflecting a market still unable to shift momentum back into bullish territory. The MACD shows bearish control but with signs of easing downside pressure, while the RSI sits in a weak, indecisive zone that underscores a lack of strong conviction from either side.
The broader structure highlights major resistance ahead at $4.659, $4.908, and $5.050, all areas that previously capped relief rallies. These levels align with significant ask-side liquidity, including a large wall at $4.210 and an even stronger one at $5.000 that may determine whether ICP can mount a meaningful breakout. Clearing these zones could open paths toward double-digit percentage gains, but momentum remains insufficient for now.
On the downside, ICP leans heavily on psychological and structural support around $3.000, where a sizeable bid wall acts as the first major defense. If this wall gives way, models suggest the price could slide more than 20%, exposing deeper liquidity gaps toward $2.000 and $1.500. While selling pressure is still dominant, shrinking bearish momentum hints that ICP may be nearing a period of consolidation rather than another immediate leg down. Traders are watching closely for a decisive reclaim of short-term trend levels or a breakdown from the $3 region to set the next clear direction.
#ICP #CryptoMarkets #TechnicalAnalysis $ICP
Internet Computer (ICP) remains under sustained bearish momentum on the 1D chart, struggling to reclaim short-term trend levels as sellers continue to dominate. Despite attempts to stabilize in the mid-$3 range, the price remains pinned below both the 9-day and 20-day EMAs, reflecting a market still unable to shift momentum back into bullish territory. The MACD shows bearish control but with signs of easing downside pressure, while the RSI sits in a weak, indecisive zone that underscores a lack of strong conviction from either side.
The broader structure highlights major resistance ahead at $4.659, $4.908, and $5.050, all areas that previously capped relief rallies. These levels align with significant ask-side liquidity, including a large wall at $4.210 and an even stronger one at $5.000 that may determine whether ICP can mount a meaningful breakout. Clearing these zones could open paths toward double-digit percentage gains, but momentum remains insufficient for now.
On the downside, ICP leans heavily on psychological and structural support around $3.000, where a sizeable bid wall acts as the first major defense. If this wall gives way, models suggest the price could slide more than 20%, exposing deeper liquidity gaps toward $2.000 and $1.500. While selling pressure is still dominant, shrinking bearish momentum hints that ICP may be nearing a period of consolidation rather than another immediate leg down. Traders are watching closely for a decisive reclaim of short-term trend levels or a breakdown from the $3 region to set the next clear direction.
#ICP #CryptoMarkets #TechnicalAnalysis $ICP
XRP Approaches a Critical Breakout Zone as Momentum Rebuilds
XRP is showing renewed strength on the 1D chart, with buyers stepping back in and momentum indicators turning increasingly constructive. The price has realigned with short-term trend levels, and the narrowing distance between key EMAs suggests the recent period of weakness may be giving way to a potential shift in market structure.
A dense resistance cluster now stands directly ahead, with multiple levels between $2.19 and $2.24 acting as the gateway for any sustained bullish continuation. Order-book data reinforces this challenge, showing large ASK walls at $2.20, $2.25, and $2.26—zones where sell liquidity is heavy and where buyers will need conviction to force a breakout. A successful move through these walls could accelerate upside momentum due to thinner liquidity beyond them.
On the downside, XRP is supported by a tight band near $2.14, backed by significant BID walls that currently act as shock absorbers for any pullback. If these walls hold, bulls maintain the advantage; if they break, the path back into consolidation reopens.
Overall, XRP’s technical posture is improving, but the next decisive move will depend on how price interacts with both the resistance cluster and the large liquidity pockets surrounding it.
#XRP #CryptoMarkets #TechnicalAnalysis $XRP
XRP is showing renewed strength on the 1D chart, with buyers stepping back in and momentum indicators turning increasingly constructive. The price has realigned with short-term trend levels, and the narrowing distance between key EMAs suggests the recent period of weakness may be giving way to a potential shift in market structure.
A dense resistance cluster now stands directly ahead, with multiple levels between $2.19 and $2.24 acting as the gateway for any sustained bullish continuation. Order-book data reinforces this challenge, showing large ASK walls at $2.20, $2.25, and $2.26—zones where sell liquidity is heavy and where buyers will need conviction to force a breakout. A successful move through these walls could accelerate upside momentum due to thinner liquidity beyond them.
On the downside, XRP is supported by a tight band near $2.14, backed by significant BID walls that currently act as shock absorbers for any pullback. If these walls hold, bulls maintain the advantage; if they break, the path back into consolidation reopens.
Overall, XRP’s technical posture is improving, but the next decisive move will depend on how price interacts with both the resistance cluster and the large liquidity pockets surrounding it.
#XRP #CryptoMarkets #TechnicalAnalysis $XRP
Cardano ADA Approaches a Critical Turning Point on the 1D Chart
Cardano’s ADA is showing early signs of momentum recovery after a period of heavy selling, with the short-term trend beginning to stabilize and the RSI lifting out of oversold conditions. Tightening EMAs suggest the bearish momentum that dominated previous sessions may be weakening, while the MACD continues to show improving upside pressure even though the broader trend remains cautious.
ADA now trades between a major support zone at $0.4046 and a cluster of overhead resistance levels, with order-book liquidity revealing key battlegrounds that could dictate the next decisive move. Large bid walls at $0.36000 and $0.35000 highlight where downside liquidity could accelerate if support breaks, while stacked ask walls near $0.438–$0.440 and a major barrier at $0.50000 show where upward momentum could either stall or trigger a sharp extension higher.
With EMAs compressing, MACD strengthening, and liquidity walls tightening around price, ADA is entering a pivotal phase where a breakout or breakdown becomes increasingly likely. Traders are watching closely as the market prepares for its next significant move.
#Cardano $ADA #CryptoAnalysis
Cardano’s ADA is showing early signs of momentum recovery after a period of heavy selling, with the short-term trend beginning to stabilize and the RSI lifting out of oversold conditions. Tightening EMAs suggest the bearish momentum that dominated previous sessions may be weakening, while the MACD continues to show improving upside pressure even though the broader trend remains cautious.
ADA now trades between a major support zone at $0.4046 and a cluster of overhead resistance levels, with order-book liquidity revealing key battlegrounds that could dictate the next decisive move. Large bid walls at $0.36000 and $0.35000 highlight where downside liquidity could accelerate if support breaks, while stacked ask walls near $0.438–$0.440 and a major barrier at $0.50000 show where upward momentum could either stall or trigger a sharp extension higher.
With EMAs compressing, MACD strengthening, and liquidity walls tightening around price, ADA is entering a pivotal phase where a breakout or breakdown becomes increasingly likely. Traders are watching closely as the market prepares for its next significant move.
#Cardano $ADA #CryptoAnalysis
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