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cointelegraph.com Stablecoins: Depegging, fraudsters and decentralization

Opinion by: Merav Ozair, PhDLately, stablecoins are everywhere — this time around, headed by “traditional” financial institutions. Bank of America and Standard Chartered are considering launching their own stablecoin, joining JPMorgan, which launched its stablecoin, JPM Coin — rebranded as Kinexys Digital Payments — to facilitate transactions with their institutional clients on their blockchain platform, Kinexys (formerly Onyx). Mastercard plans to bring stablecoins to the mainstream, joining Bleap Finance, a crypto startup. The aim is to enable stablecoins to be spent directly onchain — without conversions or intermediaries — seamlessly integrating blockchain assets with Mastercard’s global payment rails. In early April 2025, Visa joined the Global Dollar Network (USDG) stablecoin consortium. The company will become the first traditional finance player to join the consortium. In late March 2025, NYSE parent Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) announced that it is investigating applications for using USDC (USDC) stablecoin and US Yield Coin within its derivatives exchanges, clearinghouses, data services and other markets.Why the renewed interest in stablecoins?Regulatory clarity and acceptanceRecent moves by regulatory bodies in the United States and Europe have created more straightforward guidelines for cryptocurrency use. In the US, Congress is considering legislation to establish formal standards for stablecoins, bolstering confidence among banks and fintech companies.The European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation requires that stablecoin issuers operating within the EU adhere to specific financial standards, including special reserve requirements and risk mitigation. In the UK, financial authorities plan to conduct consultations to draft rules governing stablecoin use, further facilitating their acceptance and adoption.The Trump administration executive order 14067, “Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology,” supports and “promotes the development and growth of lawful and legitimate dollar-backed stablecoins worldwide” while “prohibiting the establishment, issuance, circulation, and use of a CBDC within the jurisdiction of the United States.”This executive order, followed by Trump’s World Liberty Financial company launching a stablecoin called USD1, signals that this is the era of stablecoins, particularly those pegged to the USD.Do we need more stablecoins?The stablecoin landscapeThere are over 200 stablecoins, most pegged to the US dollar. Two established stablecoins dominate the stablecoin landscape. Tether’s USDt (USDT), the oldest stablecoin, launched in 2014 and USDC, launched in 2018, capturing 65% and 28% of stablecoins market cap, respectively — both are centralized fiat collateralized. Recent: Crypto wanted to overthrow banks, now it’s becoming them in stablecoin fightIn third place, a relatively new one, USDe, launched in February 2024, holds about 2% of the stablecoin market cap and has an unconventional mechanism based on derivatives in the crypto market. Although it runs on a DeFi protocol on Ethereum, it incorporates centralized features since centralized exchanges hold the derivatives positions.There are three primary mechanisms of stablecoins:Centralized, fiat-collateralized: A centralized company maintains reserves of the assets in a bank or trust (e.g., for currency) or a vault (e.g., for gold) and issues tokens (i.e., stablecoins) that represent a claim on the underlying asset.Decentralized, cryptocurrency-collateralized: A stablecoin is backed by other decentralized crypto assets. One example can be found in the MakerDAO stablecoin Dai (DAI), which is pegged to the US dollar and encapsulates the features of decentralization. While a central organization controls centralized stablecoins, no one entity controls the issuance of DAI.Decentralized, uncollateralized: This mechanism ensures the stability of the coin’s value by controlling its supply through an algorithm executed by a smart contract. In some ways, this is no different from central banks, which also don’t rely on reserve assets to keep the value of their currency stable. The difference is that central banks, like the Federal Reserve, set a monetary policy publicly based on well-understood parameters, and its status as the issuer of legal tender provides the credibility of that policy.Depegging, risk and fraudstersStablecoins are supposed to be stable. They were created to overcome the inherent volatility of cryptocurrencies. To maintain their stability, stablecoins should (1) be pegged to a stable asset and (2) follow a mechanism that sustains the peg.If stablecoins are pegged to gold or electricity, they will reflect the volatility of these assets and thus may not be the best choice if you are seeking a no-risk (or close to no-risk) asset.USDe maintains a peg to the USD through delta hedging. It uses short and long positions in futures, which generates a 27% yield annually — significantly higher than the 12% annual yield of other stablecoins pegged to the USD. Derivative positions are considered risky — the higher the risk, the higher the return. Therefore, it encapsulates an inherited risk due to its reliance on derivatives, which runs counter to the purpose of stablecoins. Stablecoins have been around for more than a decade. During this time, there were no major depegging fiascos other than the case of Terra. The collapse of Terra was not the result of a reserve problem or mechanism but rather the act of fraudsters and manipulators.TerraUSD (UST) had a built-in arbitrage mechanism between UST and the Terra blockchain native coin, LUNA. To create UST, you needed to burn LUNA.To entice traders to burn LUNA and create UST, the creators of the Terra blockchain offered a 19.5% yield on staking, which is crypto terminology for earning 19.5% interest on a deposit, through what they called the Anchor protocol.Such a high interest rate is simply not sustainable. Someone has to borrow at such a rate or above for the lender to receive 19.5% interest. This is how banks make their profit — they charge high interest on borrowing (such as mortgages or loans) and provide low interest on savings (such as a traditional savings account or a certificate of deposit account). Analysis of the Anchor protocol in January 2022 showed it was at a loss.One of the allegations in the lawsuits against Terraform Labs’ founders is that the Anchor protocol was a Ponzi scheme.In March 2025, Galaxy Digital reached a $200-million settlement with the New York Attorney General over claims the crypto investing company promoted the LUNA digital asset without disclosing its interest in the token.In January 2025, Do Kwon, founder of Terra, was found liable for securities fraud and is facing multiple charges in the US, including fraud, wire fraud and commodities fraud. If regulators are interested in preventing future cases like Terra, they should focus on how to deter fraudsters and manipulators from issuing or engaging with stablecoins.Decentralization: Rekindling the premise of BitcoinMost stablecoins are centralized assets collateralized. They are controlled by a company that could conduct unauthorized use of customers’ funds or falsely claim that reserves fully back a stablecoin.To prevent companies’ misconduct, regulators should closely monitor these companies and set rules similar to securities laws. Centralized stablecoins run counter to the notion of blockchain and the premise of Bitcoin. When Bitcoin was launched, it was supposed to be a payment platform free of intermediaries, not controlled by any company, bank or government — a decentralized mechanism — run by the people for the people.If a stablecoin is centralized, it should follow the regulations of any other centralized asset.Maybe it’s time to rekindle the premise of Bitcoin but in a more “stable” fashion. Developing an algorithmic, decentralized stablecoin that is free of any control of a company, bank or government and reviving the core notion of blockchain.Opinion by: Merav Ozair, PhD.This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.

bitcoinmagazine.com Senator Lummis Says Trump Supports Her BITCOIN Act That Could Erase U.S. Debt

Bitcoin Magazine Senator Lummis Says Trump Supports Her BITCOIN Act That Could Erase U.S. Debt In a powerful address on Capitol Hill today, Senator Cynthia Lummis made her stance clear: the United States is out of time—and out of traditional options. “The BITCOIN Act is the only solution to our nation’s $36T debt,” she said, while mentioning she has President Donald Trump’s support for her initiative. “I’m grateful for a […] This post Senator Lummis Says Trump Supports Her BITCOIN Act That Could Erase U.S. Debt first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Jenna Montgomery.

bitcoinmagazine.com Las Vegas Bitcoin Conference Extends Invitation to Roswell, New Mexico Mayor and City Council

Bitcoin Magazine Las Vegas Bitcoin Conference Extends Invitation to Roswell, New Mexico Mayor and City Council Roswell City Council and Mayor invited to Bitcoin 2025 after an anonymous donation online seeded a Bitcoin Reserve. This post Las Vegas Bitcoin Conference Extends Invitation to Roswell, New Mexico Mayor and City Council first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Guy Malone.

bitcoinist.com Trump-Linked Stablecoin USD1 Fuels $2 Billion Binance–Abu Dhabi Power Move

The stablecoin USD1, issued by World Liberty Financial, has been chosen to handle a major $2 billion investment from MGX into Binance, according to reports. This move marks a new chapter for the crypto exchange and adds fresh attention to the stablecoin space. Related Reading: The Bitcoin That Got Away: Docuseries Explores $800 Million Trash […]

news.bitcoin.com BTCC Exchange Scores Big on Day One of TOKEN2049 Dubai With Interactive Basketball Experience and Viral Mascot Nakamon

This content is provided by a sponsor. PRESS RELEASE. May 2, 2025 – BTCC, one of the world’s longest-serving cryptocurrency exchanges, made a spectacular splash on the first day of TOKEN2049 Dubai with its eye-catching basketball-themed booth and widely popular mascot Nakamon, attracting thousands of crypto enthusiasts, traders, and industry professionals. Following the announcement of […]

cointelegraph.com Crypto skeptic to release SBF, Mashinsky interviews in documentary

Ben McKenzie, an actor known for his roles on television shows including Gotham and The OC, will make his directorial debut in a scathing documentary about cryptocurrency.According to an April 29 Deadline report, McKenzie wrote, directed, and produced the documentary Everyone Is Lying To You For Money, set to premiere at SXSW London in June. The film features footage from 2022 of former FTX CEO Sam “SBF” Bankman-Fried and former Celsius CEO Alex Mashinsky before their respective companies folded. “Why is the false story of crypto still spreading?” said McKenzie, according to Deadline. “That’s the question I set out to answer with this film.”Sam Bankman-Fried (left) with Ben McKenzie (right). Source: InstagramWorking with The New Republic staff writer Jacob Silverman, McKenzie pivoted from a role in Hollywood to speaking out against many of the issues surrounding cryptocurrency in 2021. After the collapse of FTX in November 2022, the actor testified at a US Senate hearing investigating the downfall of the crypto exchange. In addition to interviews with SBF and Mashinsky, the documentary will reportedly explore El Salvador President Nayib Bukele’s connections to crypto. Bukele rose to prominence in the industry after proposing that El Salvador recognize Bitcoin (BTC) as legal tender in 2021.Related: Peter Todd forced into hiding after HBO doc claims he invented BitcoinIt’s unclear what, if anything, could be revealed in the Bankman-Fried and Mashinsky interviews. Cointelegraph reached out to McKenzie for comment but did not receive a response at the time of publication.Bankman-Fried in prison, Mashinsky could soon follow The former FTX CEO has been the subject of other documentaries, interviews, and a Michael Lewis book. Bankman-Fried was found guilty on seven felony charges related to his role in the collapse of FTX and sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2024.Mashinsky, who pleaded guilty to two felony charges as part of a deal with US prosecutors in December 2024, is scheduled to be sentenced on May 8. Authorities requested that a judge impose a 20-year sentence on the former CEO of Celsius.Magazine: The $2,500 doco about FTX collapse on Amazon Prime… with help from mom

blockonomi.com Meerkat Kicks Off Global Marketing Campaign as $MERK Ecosystem Gains Momentum

Meerkat, the rising memecoin project that blends viral culture with real blockchain utility, has launched its global marketing campaign ahead of the official $MERK listing. With content already appearing across Telegram, YouTube, Twitter, and other major platforms, Meerkat is positioning itself as the next big name in crypto—backed by tech, not just hype. Viral by [...] The post Meerkat Kicks Off Global Marketing Campaign as $MERK Ecosystem Gains Momentum appeared first on Blockonomi.

cointelegraph.com Bitcoin data, macroeconomic charts point to new BTC all-time high ‘in 100 days’ — Analysts

Key Takeaways:Analyst predicts a low VIX (Bitcoin network economist Timothy Peterson raised Bitcoin’s (BTC) chances of hitting a new high in 100 days, and he maintains an optimistic outlook in 2025. In an analysis shared on X that ties BTC’s price action to the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) —an indicator that measures 30-day market volatility expectations — the analyst pointed out that the VIX index has dropped from 55 to 25 over the past 50 trading days. A VIX score below 18 implied a “risk-on” environment, favoring assets like Bitcoin. Peterson’s model, which had a 95% tracking accuracy, predicted a $135,000 target within the next 100 days if the VIX remains low. This aligns with Bitcoin’s sensitivity to market sentiment, as a low VIX reduces uncertainty, encouraging investment in riskier assets.Speaking on Bitcoin’s volatility, Fidelity’s director of global macro, Jurrien Timmer, compared Bitcoin’s nature to “Dr.Jekyll and Mr.Hyde.” Timmer believed Bitcoin’s ability to act as both a store of value (Dr. Jekyll) and a speculative asset (Mr. Hyde) differentiates it from gold, which remains a consistent “hard money” asset. Timmer emphasized the dynamics between Bitcoin and the global money supply and said, “Note that when M2 has grown and the stock market is rallying, Bitcoin has been off to the races because it has both attributes working for it. But when M2 has grown and equities are correcting, not so much.”Bitcoin price against global money supply. Source: X.comThis underscores Bitcoin’s sensitivity to macroeconomic conditions, making its performance less predictable than gold’s.Related: Crypto ‘decoupling’ story ends as stocks follow Bitcoin’s rallyStablecoin market cap hits record $220 billionData from CryptoQuant highlighted that the stablecoin market capitalization hit a record $220 billion, signaling a liquidity surge in the crypto market. This marks Bitcoin’s exit from a bearish phase as capital flows return, and with stablecoins representing crypto liquidity, new BTC highs could be a likely outcome in the coming weeks. While BTC continues its uptrend, lower-time frame (LTF) charts reveal a shift in market dynamics. The funding rate for BTC futures has turned negative again, indicating a rise in short positions as traders bet against the rally. Bitcoin 4-hour chart and funding rate. Source: Velo.chartThe 4-hour chart's funding rate has reached its most negative level in 2025, indicating that short-side liquidity significantly exceeds long-side liquidity. This creates a condition for a potential short squeeze.This imbalance could propel BTC toward the $100,000 level. Cointelegraph pointed out that over $3 billion is at risk for a short-side liquidation, which may amplify upward momentum, catching bearish traders off guard. Bitcoin short liquidations data. Source: X.comRelated: Bitcoin hodler unrealized profits near 350% as $100K risks sell-offThis article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

news.bitcoin.com Record Stablecoin Liquidity Fuels Bitcoin’s Exit From Bearish Territory

Bitcoin has exited its bearish phase as improving liquidity conditions and record stablecoin reserves signal renewed market strength, according to a recent report by blockchain analytics firm Cryptoquant. Stablecoin Surge Signals Bitcoin Recovery, Cryptoquant Reports The total market capitalization of stablecoins reached a record high, a threshold historically linked to upward momentum for bitcoin ( […]

blockonomi.com 24+ Best No KYC Crypto Casinos & Gambling Sites: Our Top Picks Ranked & Reviewed!

Online gambling is evolving, and now you can play at crypto casinos without having to go through the Know Your Customer (KYC) process. This means you can enjoy your favorite games without sharing personal information, making the experience faster and more private. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best no KYC crypto casinos. [...] The post 24+ Best No KYC Crypto Casinos & Gambling Sites: Our Top Picks Ranked & Reviewed! appeared first on Blockonomi.

blockonomi.com Cardano’s (ADA) Cross-Chain Integration Captivates Markets, But Analysts Think Ruvi AI (RUVI) Is The project to Watch As Price Prediction see 6,500% Increase

Cardano has captured the crypto community’s attention with its latest developments, including the Lace wallet’s integration with Bitcoin and moves toward blockchain interoperability. As Cardano showcases the potential of seamless blockchain connectivity, Ruvi AI is carving out its distinct path by blending artificial intelligence and blockchain for groundbreaking innovation and unmatched investment opportunities. Ruvi AI [...] The post Cardano’s (ADA) Cross-Chain Integration Captivates Markets, But Analysts Think Ruvi AI (RUVI) Is The project to Watch As Price Prediction see 6,500% Increase appeared first on Blockonomi.

bitcoinist.com Ethereum Prints 5 Red Monthly Candles: What Happened The Last Time?

Over the last few months, the Ethereum price has performed incredibly poorly, dashing the hopes of investors who believed in its potential. While the Bitcoin price has made multiple new highs with expectations that the ETH price could follow, the opposite has been the case. In the last five months, Ethereum has gone from $4,000 […]

cointelegraph.com XYO Network tops 10M DePIN nodes — Co-founder

XYO Network has onboarded more than 10 million nodes to its decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN), co-founder Markus Levin told Cointelegraph in an interview.The nodes mostly comprise human users who provide data in exchange for rewards via the network’s mobile application, COIN. “The vast majority of our 10 million nodes are mobile users, but some are IoT devices like smart speakers,” Levin told Cointelegraph. Approximately 80% of XYO’s users are non-crypto natives who are participating in Web3 for the first time, he added.They include truckers, rideshare drivers, delivery people, and nurses among others, Levin said, adding that “95% convert after onboarding through the COIN app.”XYO launched a layer-1 blockchain network in January. Source: XYO Related: DePIN XYO launches on SolanaDePIN TokenomicsIn exchange for data, XYO awards its users points that are redeemable for its native XYO token, as well as “BTC, ETH or even gift cards,” he said. In October 2024, XYO bridged its native token to Solana (SOL) in a bid to reach more users. The XYO token has a market capitalization of roughly $180 million as of May 2, according to data from CoinMarketCap.XYO earns revenue by collecting and validating data in sectors ranging from real-world assets (RWAs) to gaming. It then uses a portion of that income to buy back XYO. In January, XYO launched its layer-1 blockchain, which collates real-world data from across XYO’s nodes onto a public ledger. The network’s validators stake XYO and earn rewards denominated in XL1, the network’s newly-launched gas token. XYO has a market capitalization of around $180 million. Source: CoinMarketCapDePINs are blockchain protocols aimed at decentralizing real-world infrastructure and systems, including communications networks, data warehouses, energy markets, and more.They are among Web3’s “next big use case[s],” with the potential to onboard “a significant number of new users to the crypto space,” according to a September 2024 report by MV Global, a Web3 investing firm.According to MV Global, the DePIN ecosystem comprises upward of 1,000 projects and represents roughly $50 billion in total market capitalization.Magazine: 10 crypto theories that missed as badly as ‘Peter Todd is Satoshi’

news.bitcoin.com Bitcoin Eyes $98K as Strong Jobs Report Buoys Markets

The U.S. economy added a higher-than-expected 177,000 jobs in April, sparking a rally in traditional markets as bitcoin climbed closer to $98K. Strong Employment Figures Push Bitcoin Toward $98K Threshold The U.S. Department of Labor surprised bearish economists when it published its highly anticipated jobs report on Friday, showing a stronger-than-expected 177,000 jobs added to […]

bitcoinist.com Morgan Stanley Introduces Crypto Trading On E*Trade Amid Trump’s Deregulation

Morgan Stanley, one of the world’s largest investment banks, is reportedly set to introduce cryptocurrency trading on its consumer platform, E*Trade. According to a Bloomberg report citing sources familiar with the matter, the banking giant plans to allow customers to buy and sell cryptocurrencies starting next year, capitalizing on the recent deregulation efforts spearheaded by […]

cointelegraph.com Bitcoin ETFs, gov’t adoption to drive BTC to $1M by 2029: Finance Redefined

The cryptocurrency market continued its recovery in the past week as the total crypto market capitalization breached the $3 trillion mark for the first time since the beginning of March.Bitcoin (BTC) rose to an over two-month high of $97,300 last seen at the end of February, before the “Liberation Day” tariffs announcement in the US, bolstering analyst predictions for a rally driven by “structural” institutional and exchange-traded fund (ETF) inflows into the world’s first cryptocurrency.Risk appetite continued rising among crypto investors, as Chinese state-linked news outlets indicated that the Trump administration has quietly contacted Beijing to discuss tariff reductions.Total crypto market cap, 1-year chart. Source: CoinMarketCapIn the wider crypto space, Ethereum developers proposed a new token standard to improve the interoperability of the world’s second-largest blockchain network.Bitcoin to $1 million by 2029 fueled by ETF and gov’t demand — Bitwise execBitcoin’s expanding institutional adoption may provide the “structural” inflows necessary to surpass gold’s market capitalization and push its price beyond $1 million by 2029, according to Bitwise’s head of European research, André Dragosch.“Our in-house prediction is $1 million by 2029. So that Bitcoin will match gold's market cap and total addressable market by 2029,” he told Cointelegraph during the Chain Reaction daily X spaces show on April 30.Gold is currently the world’s largest asset, valued at over $21.7 trillion. In comparison, Bitcoin’s market capitalization sits at $1.9 trillion, making it the seventh-largest asset globally, according to CompaniesMarketCap data.Top 10 global assets by market capitalization. Source: CompaniesMarketCapFor the 2025 market cycle, Bitcoin may surpass $200,000 in the “base case” and $500,000 with more governmental adoption, Dragosch said.Continue readingEric Trump: USD1 will be used for $2 billion MGX investment in BinanceAbu Dhabi-based investment firm MGX will use a stablecoin linked to US President Donald Trump’s family to settle a $2 billion investment in Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange.The World Liberty Financial USD (USD1) US dollar-pegged stablecoin was launched by the Trump-associated crypto platform World Liberty Financial (WLFI) in March 2025.MGX will use the USD1 stablecoin for its $2 billion investment in the Binance exchange, according to an announcement by Eric Trump during a panel discussion at Token2049 in Dubai. Trump, the son of the president, serves as executive vice president of the Trump Organization.Source: CointelegraphMGX announced its investment in Binance on March 12, marking the first institutional investment in the exchange and one of the biggest funding deals in the entire Web3 industry.At the time, Binance declined Cointelegraph’s request to disclose what stablecoin was used in the transaction.  This marks the Abu Dhabi-based investment firm’s first venture into the cryptocurrency space.Continue readingEthereum to simplify crosschain transactions with new token standardsEthereum developers are working to improve blockchain interoperability with two new token standards: ERC-7930 and ERC-7828.“There’s no standard way for wallets, apps, or protocols to interpret or display this information,” decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem development organization Wonderland wrote in a May 1 X post. Wallets, decentralized applications (DApps), block explorers and smart contracts follow different rules.“The result? A messy, inconsistent experience that breaks crosschain UX,“ Wonderland stated.Wonderland is a group of developers, researchers and data scientists focused on improving the Ethereum DeFi ecosystem. The organization partnered with multiple DeFi protocols, including Optimism, Aztec, Connext and Yearn.Wonderland’s ERC-7828 and ERC-7930 explanation post. Source: WonderlandIn the post, the organization shared what was discussed at a recent Ethereum Foundation interoperability working group call. Teddy from Wonderland explained that the current goal is to finalize both token standards within the next two weeks. He added:“We badly need feedback on the ETH-Magicians forum.”Continue readingCrypto hackers hit DeFi for $92 million in April as attacks double from MarchCryptocurrency hackers stole more than $90 million in April, dealing another blow to the industry’s mainstream reputation despite ongoing efforts to improve cybersecurity.Hackers made off with $92 million of digital assets across 15 incidents in April, according to an April 30 research report by blockchain cybersecurity firm Immunefi.The total marks a 124% month-over-month increase from March, when hackers stole $41 million.Crypto stole in April 2025. Source: ImmunefiThe month’s largest hack on open-source platform UPCX accounted for most of the damage in April, with over $70 million in losses, while KiloEx lost $7.5 million as April’s second-largest hack.The KiloEx exploiter returned the stolen funds just days after the attack occurred.All of April’s reported attacks targeted decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms. Centralized exchanges reported no incidents during the month, the report noted.Top 10 losses in April. Source: ImmunefiImmunefi, which says it helps protect $190 billion in user funds, has paid more than $116 million in bounties to white hat hackers.Continue readingCrypto group asks Trump to end prosecution of crypto devs, Roman StormThe crypto lobby group, the DeFi Education Fund, has petitioned the Trump administration to end what it claimed was the “lawless prosecution” of open-source software developers, including Roman Storm, a creator of the crypto mixing service Tornado Cash.In an April 28 letter to White House crypto czar David Sacks, the group urged President Donald Trump “to take immediate action to discontinue the Biden-era Department of Justice's lawless campaign to criminalize open-source software development.” The letter specifically mentioned the prosecution of Storm, who was charged in August 2023 with helping launder over $1 billion in crypto through Tornado Cash. His trial is still set for July, and his fellow charged co-founder, Roman Semenov, is at large and believed to be in Russia.The DeFi Education Fund said that in Storm’s case, the Department of Justice is attempting to hold software developers criminally liable for how others use their code, which is “not only absurd in principle, but it sets a precedent that potentially chills all crypto development in the United States.”The group also called for the recognition that the prosecution contradicts the Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) guidance from Trump’s first term, which established that developers of self-custodial, peer-to-peer protocols are not money transmitters. Source: DeFi Education Fund“This kind of legal environment does not just chill innovation — it freezes it,” they argued. The letter added that it also “empowers politically-motivated enforcement and puts every open-source developer at risk, regardless of industry.”In January, a federal court in Texas ruled that the Treasury overstepped its authority by sanctioning Tornado Cash. Continue readingDeFi market overviewAccording to data from Cointelegraph Markets Pro and TradingView, most of the 100 largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization ended the week in the green.The Virtuals Protocol (VIRTUAL) token rose over 103% as the week’s biggest gainer, followed by the Solayer (LAYER) token, up over 29% during the past week.Total value locked in DeFi. Source: DefiLlamaThanks for reading our summary of this week’s most impactful DeFi developments. Join us next Friday for more stories, insights and education regarding this dynamically advancing space.

cointelegraph.com Price predictions 5/2: BTC, ETH, XRP, BNB, SOL, DOGE, ADA, SUI, LINK, AVAX

Key points:Bitcoin trends toward $100,000. Will bears sell at this level?Altcoins are trading above their respective support levels, suggesting that an altcoin rally is brewing.Bitcoin’s (BTC) tight consolidation resolved in favor of the bulls with a break above the $95,000 barrier on May 1. The bulls are trying to push the price to the psychologically crucial level at $100,000, which may again witness a tough battle between the bulls and the bears. Veteran trader Peter Brandt sounded positive when he said in a post on X that Bitcoin could rally to the $125,000 to $150,000 range by August or September 2025 if it manages to regain its broken parabolic slope. However, Brandt cautioned that the rally could be followed by a sharp correction of more than 50%.Crypto market data daily view. Source: Coin360As Bitcoin nears the 100,000 mark, onchain analytics firm Glassnode cautions that the long-term holders (LTHs) may be tempted to book profits. The firm said in its newsletter that the LTHs tend to book profits when their profit margin reaches 350%, and that level will be hit at $99,900. A significant amount of buy-side pressure is needed to overcome the selling to continue the up move.Could Bitcoin break above $100,000, pulling select altcoins higher? Let’s analyze the charts of the top 10 cryptocurrencies to find out.Bitcoin price predictionBitcoin’s break above $95,000 signals an advantage to buyers, but the bears are unlikely to give up easily.BTC/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewSellers will try to pull the price back below $95,000, trapping the aggressive bulls. If they can pull it off, the BTC/USDT pair could test the 20-day exponential moving average ($91,391). This is a necessary support to watch out for as a solid bounce off the 20-day EMA suggests the bullish sentiment remains intact. That increases the likelihood of a break above $100,000. The pair may then reach $107,000.This optimistic view will be invalidated in the short term if the price turns down and breaks below the 20-day EMA. The pair may then tumble to the 50-day simple moving average ($86,236).Ether price predictionBuyers successfully defended Ether’s (ETH) drop to the 20-day EMA ($1,757) on April 30, signaling demand at lower levels.ETH/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe gradually upsloping 20-day EMA and the RSI in the positive territory indicate a slight edge to the bulls. If the price maintains above $1,857, the ETH/USDT pair could climb to the breakdown level of $2,111. There is minor resistance at $1,957, but that is likely to be crossed.This positive view will be invalidated in the near term if the price turns down and plunges below the moving averages. That could pull the pair down to $1,537, which is expected to attract buyers.XRP price predictionThe bulls have managed to keep XRP (XRP) above the moving averages, but the bounce lacks strength.XRP/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe flattening 20-day EMA ($2.17) and the RSI just above the midpoint do not give a clear advantage either to the bulls or the bears. Buyers will seize control on a break and close above the resistance line. That clears the path for a rally to $3.On the contrary, a break and close below the moving averages could sink the XRP/USDT pair to the solid support at $2. This is a critical level to keep an eye on because a break below $2 could pull the pair to $1.61.BNB price predictionBNB (BNB) is witnessing a seesaw battle between the bulls and the bears at the moving averages.BNB/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewIf the price maintains below the moving averages, the BNB/USDT pair could slump to $576 and later to $566. Buyers are expected to vigorously defend the $566 level because a break below it may sink the pair to $520.The bulls will have to push the price above $620 to signal strength. The pair could then rise to $644, which is likely to act as a strong resistance. If buyers bulldoze their way through, the pair could surge to $680.Solana price predictionSolana (SOL) continues to face selling at the $153 level, but a positive sign is that the bulls have not ceded much ground to the bears.SOL/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe upsloping 20-day EMA ($142) and the RSI in the positive zone suggest that the path of least resistance is to the upside. If buyers push and maintain the price above $153, the SOL/USDT pair could rally to $180.Contrary to this assumption, if the price turns down sharply and breaks below the 20-day EMA, it suggests profit booking by the short-term bulls. The pair could then slump to the 50-day SMA ($132).Dogecoin price predictionDogecoin (DOGE) rebounded off the moving averages on May 1, indicating that the bulls are trying to keep the price inside the upper half of the range.DOGE/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe bulls will attempt to push the price to the top of the range at $0.21, which is a critical near-term resistance level to watch out for. If buyers pierce the $0.21 level, the DOGE/USDT pair will complete a double-bottom pattern. That could start a move to $0.25 and then to the pattern target of $0.28.Contrarily, a break and close below the moving averages opens the doors for a fall to the support of the range at $0.14. Buyers are expected to defend the $0.14 level with all their might because a break below it may sink the pair to $0.10.Cardano price predictionBuyers bought the dip to the moving averages in Cardano (ADA), but the failure to build upon the rebound suggests a lack of demand at higher levels.ADA/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewBuyers will have to drive the price above the $0.75 resistance to gain the upper hand. If they do that, the ADA/USDT pair could rally to $0.83. Sellers will try to halt the up move at $0.83, but if the bulls prevail, the pair could reach $1.On the downside, a break and close below the moving averages tilts the short-term advantage in favor of the bears. The pair could slide to $0.58, where the buyers are expected to step in. Related: Moon soon? XRP's strongest spot premium aligns with 70% rally setupSui price predictionBuyers pushed Sui (SUI) toward the $3.90 overhead resistance on May 1, but the long wick on the candlestick shows that bears are aggressively defending the level.SUI/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewThe first support on the downside is $3.27, and then the 20-day EMA ($3.01). If the price rebounds off the 20-day EMA with strength, the bulls will again try to drive the SUI/USDT pair above $3.90. If they manage to do that, the pair could rally to $4.25 and subsequently to $5.Instead, if the price breaks below the 20-day EMA, it suggests that the bulls have given up. The pair may slump to the solid support at $2.86. If the price rebounds off the $2.86 support, the pair may form a range.Chainlink price predictionChainlink (LINK) turned up from the moving averages on May 1, indicating that the sentiment remains positive.LINK/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewBuyers will try to push the price above the $16 overhead resistance and challenge the resistance line of the descending channel pattern. Sellers are expected to fiercely defend the resistance line because a break and close above it signals a potential trend change.If the price turns down from the overhead resistance and breaks below the moving averages, it suggests selling on rallies. The LINK/USDT pair may drop to $11.68, extending its stay inside the channel for some more time.Avalanche price predictionAvalanche (AVAX) bounced off the 20-day EMA ($20.89) on May 1, indicating that the bulls are buying on dips.  AVAX/USDT daily chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewBuyers will try to propel the price above the $23.50 overhead resistance. If they manage to do that, the AVAX/USDT pair will complete a double-bottom pattern. That may start an up move to $28.78 and later to the pattern target of $31.73.The moving averages are the crucial support to watch out for. If the price turns down from the current level or the overhead resistance and breaks below the 50-day SMA ($19.79), it suggests that the range-bound action may continue for a few more days.This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

blockonomi.com 4 Tokens Like BTFD and MEW You Can’t Ignore This May—Best Meme Coin Presale to Buy Now is Doubling Bags with a 100% Bonus!

When you’re staring down a chart and wondering, “Did I already miss it?”—you’re not alone. That’s the gut-punch question every crypto degen’s been hit with. And right now? With meme coins fueling overnight millionaires again, the pressure’s on to pick the right horse before it bolts. Shiba’s whispering comeback tales, MEW just rewrote the rules, [...] The post 4 Tokens Like BTFD and MEW You Can’t Ignore This May—Best Meme Coin Presale to Buy Now is Doubling Bags with a 100% Bonus! appeared first on Blockonomi.

news.bitcoin.com Bitcoin Taps $97.9K as US-China Trade Chill Ignites Crypto and Stock Market Frenzy

Digital assets edged higher Friday in step with U.S. equities, buoyed by hints that Washington and Beijing are dialing back their trade spat. The sector’s total capitalization has touched $3.03 trillion, and bitcoin is fetching $97,938 per coin. Fed in Trump’s Crosshairs Again—Markets Surge on Job Data and Trade Hopes Wall Street is on a […]

bitcoinmagazine.com Brown University Bought And Owns $4.9 million of BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF

Bitcoin Magazine Brown University Bought And Owns $4.9 million of BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF  According to a new SEC filing today, Brown University, a private university based in Providence, Rhode Island, revealed a large position in BlackRock’ spot Bitcoin ETF, IBIT, as first reported by market analyst MacroScope. The position showed Brown held $4,915,050 in IBIT as of March 31, 2025, which sees the school become the third U.S. […] This post Brown University Bought And Owns $4.9 million of BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF  first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Jenna Montgomery.

blockonomi.com Best Presale Cryptos: Unlocking Liquidity- DexBoss and the Future of Decentralized Finance!!

Presales are known as the golden ticket in the swiftly evolving world of cryptocurrencies, which allows early investors to attempt to seek the next breakout project. These events allow individuals to purchase tokens before they are released to the wider market, frequently at huge discounts. This article will look in-depth at five of the most [...] The post Best Presale Cryptos: Unlocking Liquidity- DexBoss and the Future of Decentralized Finance!! appeared first on Blockonomi.

news.bitcoin.com Britain’s Financial Watchdog to Stop Lending for Crypto Asset Purchases

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Britain’s financial watchdog, has decided to step in and stop financial institutions from giving credit to facilitate the purchase of cryptocurrency assets. The decision is part of a larger set of rules the institution aims to include to streamline crypto regulation. “Crypto is an area of potential growth for the […]

cointelegraph.com Why Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust still dominates ETF revenue in 2025

In the annals of financial history, few institutions have faced the tempests of competition with the steadfast resolve of Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC). Born in 2013 as a private placement, GBTC pioneered regulated Bitcoin investment, granting investors access to Bitcoin’s (BTC) meteoric rise without the perils of digital wallets or unregulated exchanges.On Jan. 11, 2024, it transitioned into a spot Bitcoin ETF following a landmark victory against the SEC. This marked a pivotal moment with the SEC’s view that ETFs can offer lower expense ratios and enhanced tax efficiency compared to traditional funds. Even still, GBTC’s financial resilience shines, generating $268.5 million in annual revenue, surpassing the $211.8 million of all other US spot Bitcoin ETFs combined, despite losing over half its holdings with $18 billion in outflows since early 2024. This is no fleeting triumph of inertia. The numbers tell a tale of paradox. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), with $56 billion in assets under management (AUM) and a 0.25% fee, generated $137 million in 2024 while achieving $35.8 billion in inflows and $1 billion in daily trading volume within weeks of launch. Meanwhile, GBTC’s 1.5% expense ratio, up to seven times higher than competitors, fuels its revenue lead, even though it bled $17.4 billion in outflows, with a record single-day loss of $618 million on March 19, 2024, driven by investors chasing lower fees or capitalizing on the trust’s historical discount to net asset value (NAV), which plummeted from 50% to near zero by July 2024.This clash of revenue dominance and capital flight demands scrutiny, unveiling the intricate dance of investor psychology, market dynamics and Grayscale’s calculated resilience.Yet, GBTC’s $18 billion in AUM and its ability to generate $268.5 million despite significant outflows points to a deeper narrative: tax friction and institutionalized inertia. The inability of companies, family offices and other institutions to quickly pivot due to tax barriers and company directives bubbles to the surface. The $100-billion total spot Bitcoin ETF market points to the stakes of this contest, with Grayscale’s revenue dominance poised to evolve as competition intensifies.Related: The sentiment engine of Bitcoin ETFs is rewiring market structureWhat sustains GBTC’s revenue crown in this crucible of competition? Is it the arithmetic of high fees applied to a still-formidable AUM, the loyalty of battle-scarred investors, or the unseen weight of tax frictions binding them to their positions?As we probe this question, we uncover the mechanics of GBTC’s dominance and the broader currents shaping the future of crypto investment. The answer lies in a potent blend of history, strategy and the unyielding faith of investors in a titan that, against all odds, refuses to yield.GBTC Rev vs. all other ETFs. Source: CoinGlassGrayscale’s high-fee revenue engineAt the core of GBTC’s revenue dominance lies its 1.5% expense ratio, a towering figure beside competitors like IBIT and FBTC (both 0.25%), Bitwise (0.24%) and Franklin Templeton (0.19%).Applied to $17.9 billion in AUM, this fee yields $268.5 million annually, eclipsing the $211.8-million combined revenue of all other US spot Bitcoin ETFs, which manage $89 billion collectively.ETF Store president Nate Geraci remarked on X, “GBTC still making more [money] than all of the other ETFs combined… And it’s not even close.” This arithmetic edge endures despite $21 billion in outflows since January 2024, including a daily average loss of $89.9 million, underscoring the sheer power of high fees on a substantial asset base.Source: Nate GeraciThe fee structure is both GBTC’s bastion and its Achilles’ heel. Before its ETF conversion, GBTC charged 2%, a rate justified by its monopoly as the sole US vehicle for Bitcoin exposure within traditional portfolios. Post-conversion, the 1.5% fee draws ire, with Bryan Armour, director of passive strategies research for Morningstar, predicting sustained outflows as investors flock to cheaper alternatives. Grayscale’s counterstroke was the Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust (BTC), launched in March 2025 with a 0.15% fee (the lowest among US spot Bitcoin ETPs). Seeded with 10% of GBTC’s Bitcoin holdings ($1.7 billion AUM), the Mini Trust has drawn $168.9 million in inflows, targeting cost-conscious investors. However, the Mini Trust’s lower revenue per dollar of AUM ($2.55 million annually) pales beside GBTC’s $268.5 million, reinforcing the latter’s dominance.Grayscale’s dual strategy (high-fee GBTC for revenue, low-fee Mini Trust for retention) reveals a nuanced defense, but the fortress of GBTC’s fees remains unbreached, its revenue crown secure for now.Legacy and loyaltyBeyond the arithmetic of fees, GBTC’s revenue supremacy rests on its storied legacy, the fierce loyalty it inspires and the formidable tax frictions that tether investors to its fold. Since 2013, Grayscale has been the standard-bearer of regulated Bitcoin investment, overcoming regulatory tempests to become the first publicly traded Bitcoin fund in 2015 and the largest spot Bitcoin ETF by AUM ($26 billion) upon its NYSE Arca listing in 2024.Its August 2023 legal victory against the US SEC, which compelled the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, solidified its stature as a pioneer. This legacy resonates with institutional and accredited investors, many of whom entered GBTC during its private placement phase or at steep NAV discounts, forging a bond that endures.Tax considerations form a silent but mighty anchor. Many early GBTC investors purchased shares at low prices, with Bitcoin trading at $800 in 2013 compared to the mid-$90,000 range by May 2025. This roughly 120-fold increase has generated substantial unrealized capital gains, making sales costly.Related: Bitcoin price recovers, Ethereum RWA value up 20%: April in chartsAn investor who purchased 100 shares of GBTC at $10 in 2015 and now sees them valued at $400 each would be sitting on a $39,000 capital gain. Selling those shares to move into a lower-fee ETF like IBIT or FBTC could trigger a tax bill of $7,800 at the 20% long-term capital gains rate typically applied to high-net-worth individuals or $5,850 at the 15% rate for others. This kind of taxable event often discourages redemptions, particularly for long-term holders in taxable accounts.On the other hand, for those holding GBTC in tax-advantaged vehicles such as IRAs or 401(k)s, gains can be deferred and, in the case of Roth IRAs, avoided entirely, making GBTC comparatively more attractive for legacy investors reluctant to switch.Psychological factors amplify these barriers. Loss aversion (the reluctance to realize taxable gains) and loyalty to Grayscale’s brand deter investors from abandoning a vehicle that weathered Bitcoin’s volatility. The closure of the NAV discount (from 50% to near zero in July 2024) spurred outflows as arbitrageurs cashed out. Still, core holders remain, bolstered by trust in Grayscale’s custodianship via Coinbase Custody, which secures $18.08 billion in AUM in May 2024. Its investor base, spanning crypto-native institutions, hedge funds and retail clients via platforms like Fidelity and Schwab, values its simplicity (no crypto wallets required) and regulatory pedigree.While IBIT and FBTC draw new capital with lower fees and liquidity, GBTC retains a niche among those who see it as a battle-tested titan. Former Grayscale CEO Michael Sonnenshein’s claim that outflows are reaching “equilibrium” suggests a stabilizing core, with tax frictions and legacy fortifying retention. In a market driven by innovation, GBTC’s history, bolstered by tax barriers and investor faith, is its shield, guarding its revenue crown against the relentless advance of newer rivals.A historical timeline graphic showing GBTC milestones (2013 launch, 2015 public trading, 2023 SEC victory, 2024 ETF conversion), with Bitcoin price spikes ($800 to $103,000) and AUM growth overlaid. Source: Dr. Michael Tabone Magazine: ZK-proofs are bringing smart contracts to Bitcoin — BitcoinOS and Starknet

bitcoinist.com Cardano Unleashes Leios: 11,000 TPS And Infinite Scalability

Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson used his 1 May 2025 livestream to unveil the first quantitative performance figures for Ouroboros Leios, the protocol upgrade that—if it performs in production as the prototype already does in simulation—promises what he called “an infinitely scalable protocol, a one-minus-delta protocol.” Ouroboros Leios: Cardano’s Boldest Upgrade Yet Speaking from Colorado, Hoskinson […]

news.bitcoin.com Is Fantasy Pepe (FEPE) the Next 50x Crypto? AI, Memes, and Football Fuel Presale Hype

This content is provided by a sponsor. Fantasy Pepe ($FEPE) brings together three massive worlds; football, meme culture, and crypto, into a wild and unpredictable fantasy game that’s powered by AI. The core idea is simple but brilliant: users predict the outcomes of meme football matches managed by AI personalities like ChatGPT and DeepSeek, and […]

cointelegraph.com Bitcoin is a matter of national security — Deputy CIA director

The US Central Intelligence Agency is increasingly incorporating Bitcoin (BTC) as a tool in its operations, and working with the cryptocurrency is a matter of national security, Michael Ellis, the agency’s deputy director, told podcast host Anthony Pompliano.In an appearance on the market analyst and investor’s show, Ellis told Pompliano that the intelligence agency works with law enforcement to track BTC, and it is a point of data collection in counter-intelligence operations. Ellis added:"Bitcoin is here to stay — cryptocurrency is here to stay. As you know, more and more institutions are adopting it, and I think that is a great trend. One that this administration has obviously been leaning forward into.""It's another area of competition where we need to ensure the United States is well-positioned against China and other adversaries," Ellis said.Podcast host and investor Anthony Pompliano (left) and Deputy CIA director Michael Ellis (right). Source: Anthony PomplianoAlthough Ellis's comments point to Bitcoin maturing as an asset, they also reflect the increased involvement of governments and institutions in Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. This increased involvement runs contrary to the libertarian and cypherpunk ethos originally inherent in crypto.Related: Geopolitical tensions fuel central bank shift toward gold, crypto — BlackRock execBitcoin: from cypherpunk experiment to state reserve assetUS President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve on March 7, to mixed reactions from the Bitcoin community.Bitcoin Magazine CEO David Bailey celebrated the move, while Venice AI founder and BTC advocate Erik Vorhees warned against the government owning any Bitcoin but added that if the US government is to adopt any crypto reserve, it should be Bitcoin-only.Concerns that cryptocurrencies have lost their cypherpunk roots predate the current market cycle and any strategic reserve legislation or comprehensive regulatory frameworks for digital assets.In March 2020, Therese Chambers, the former director of retail and regulatory investigations at the United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), argued that cryptocurrencies had become increasingly financialized and institutionalized.Chambers added that digital assets were behaving far more like traditional financial instruments than the privacy-preserving tools they were initially billed as.Magazine: Big Questions: Did the NSA create Bitcoin?

cointelegraph.com Bitcoin hits new 10-week high as Trump demands rate cut on US jobs beat

Key points:The US labor market is “still holding up” as nonfarm payrolls data comes in higher than expected.Bitcoin and stocks head higher as US President Donald Trump repeats calls for the Fed to lower interest rates.BTC price action may spark a “liquidity grab” above $97,000, a trader warns.Bitcoin (BTC) hit new multimonth highs after the May 2 Wall Street open as US nonfarm payrolls data beat expectations.BTC/USD 1-hour chart. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewBitcoin meanders after nonfarm payrolls beatData from Cointelegraph Markets Pro and TradingView showed BTC/USD building on $97,000 as markets digested the latest in a bumper week of macro data.Nonfarm payrolls indicated 177,000 jobs added in April, considerably more than the roughly 140,000 forecast.“The labor market is still holding up,” trading resource The Kobeissi Letter wrote in part of a reaction on X.The strong result is ostensibly less bullish for crypto and risk assets as it implies that the labor market is more resilient to tight financial conditions, including raised interest rates, than expected.This, in turn, gives the US Federal Reserve more leeway to keep those conditions in play for longer, depriving markets of the liquidity influx associated with lower rates.Despite this, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite Index were both up more than 1.3% on the day at the time of writing.In his latest post on Truth Social, meanwhile, US President Donald Trump reiterated calls on the Fed to cut rates — an approach adopted throughout his ongoing implementation of trade tariffs.“Consumers have been waiting for years to see pricing come down. NO INFLATION, THE FED SHOULD LOWER ITS RATE!!!” part of the post stated, referencing various inflation markers.Source: Truth SocialAs Cointelegraph reported, the Fed’s next decision on rates will come on May 7, with markets overwhelmingly seeing no change to the current regime. The latest data from CME Group’s FedWatch Tool puts the odds of a cut next week at just 2%.Fed target rate probabilities for May FOMC meeting. Source: CME GroupWarning over BTC price “liquidity grab”In Bitcoin circles, market participants eyed sellers’ response to continued pushes higher through the week.Related: Bitcoin hodler unrealized profits near 350% as $100K risks sell-off“Going to be an interesting day ahead,” popular trader Skew told X followers alongside a chart of exchange order book liquidity.“Sellers have been defending $97.2K & shorts continue to scale into price. Passive spot flow will probably again decide the trend.”BTC/USDT charts with order book liquidity data. Source: Skew/XFellow trader Daan Crypto Trades warned that current local highs may end up a ploy to take liquidity before a reversal.“$BTC Broke out of the $93K to $96K range after price action got compressed for about a week,” part of an X post read prior to the macro data releases. “So far it's a similar setup as the week before, but I wouldn't want to see it trade back into that $93K-$96K range or this would just be a liquidity grab.”BTC/USD 1-hour chart. Source: Daan Crypto Trades/XAnother popular trader known as TheKingfisher referenced bid liquidity as a reason for a short-term dip to $95,000.Trader and analyst Rekt Capital, meanwhile, gave an end-of-week BTC price target requirement of $99,000.“If Bitcoin continues to hold above $93,500 (as it has been thus far), then price will be positioned for a move across the range,” he explained alongside the weekly BTC/USD chart the day prior.“However, it's key that $BTC breaks the black Lower High resistance within this Range which is positioned at ~$99k this week.”BTC/USD 1-week chart. Source: Rekt Capital/XThis article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

news.bitcoin.com Tokenized Treasuries Add $560M in 15 Days, Pushing Market to $6.5B

In just 15 days, the tokenized Treasury market ballooned by $560 million, catapulting its total value to an impressive $6.5 billion as of May 2, 2025. BUIDL and USTB Drive 98% of Tokenized Treasury Market Growth in Just Two Weeks The Blackrock USD Institutional Digital Liquidity Fund (BUIDL), powered by Securitize, captured the lion’s share […]

bitcoinmagazine.com Maya Parbhoe’s Credibility Crisis: Suriname Unlikely To Be Next Bitcoin Country

Bitcoin Magazine Maya Parbhoe’s Credibility Crisis: Suriname Unlikely To Be Next Bitcoin Country The Surinamese political candidate has projected an image of herself as a successful businesswoman running as a pro-Bitcoin presidential candidate to the international Bitcoin community, but those who’ve interacted with her on the ground — or those who’ve obtained reported government intel on her — tell a different story. This post Maya Parbhoe’s Credibility Crisis: Suriname Unlikely To Be Next Bitcoin Country first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Frank Corva.

coinspeaker.com Tether Plans U.S. Expansion with New Stablecoin Amid Strong Market Performance and Strategic Investments

Coinspeaker Tether Plans U.S. Expansion with New Stablecoin Amid Strong Market Performance and Strategic Investments Tether is launching a U.S.-based stablecoin to expand its presence and comply with American crypto regulations. Tether Plans U.S. Expansion with New Stablecoin Amid Strong Market Performance and Strategic Investments

bitcoinist.com Capitol Crypto: Congressman Proposes Bitcoin ATMs In Government Facilities

A Texas Republican congressman has proposed installing cryptocurrency ATMs in United States federal buildings. Rep. Lance Gooden wrote a May 1 letter to Stephen Ehikian, who is presently acting administrator for the General Services Administration (GSA), news reports said. Related Reading: The Bitcoin That Got Away: Docuseries Explores $800 Million Trash Tragedy Trump Ally Frames […]

blockonomi.com Dogecoin’s (DOGE) Resilience Inspires Markets While Ruvi AI (RUVI) Is Expected to Turn $900 into $90,000 in 2025

Dogecoin’s remarkable 6% surge has reaffirmed its enduring appeal within the cryptocurrency market, drawing the attention of traders and investors alike. This performance underscores the importance of resilience and innovation in blockchain technology. Building on this momentum, Ruvi AI emerges as a groundbreaking platform set to redefine the blockchain space with its practical applications and [...] The post Dogecoin’s (DOGE) Resilience Inspires Markets While Ruvi AI (RUVI) Is Expected to Turn $900 into $90,000 in 2025 appeared first on Blockonomi.

bitcoinist.com Ripple Is ‘Fake It Till You Make It On Steroids,’ Claims Moonrock Capital CEO

The disclosure of Ripple Labs Inc.’s overture to purchase Circle Internet Financial for a reported $4 billion to $5 billion has ignited a rare public broadside from within the digital-asset industry itself, while simultaneously spotlighting diverging philosophies about how crypto networks should be commercialized. Simon Dedic, chief executive of the venture firm Moonrock Capital, took […]

cointelegraph.com Free speech is at risk without decentralized, open-source technology

Opinion by: Chris Jenkins, adviser to Pocket NetworkTim Berners-Lee’s vision of the World Wide Web is dead. Instead of an open and accessible global information system, the web is controlled by centralized global data conglomerates, which don’t just restrict free speech but also monetize your data as a price of entry. Web2 firms have built walled gardens with massive information asymmetry between companies and users.Blockchain-based decentralized tech challenges the status quo, offering an alternative to Web2’s closed-source infrastructure. It enables developers and engineers to build a censorship-resistant and accessible open-data web to champion the cause of free speech. Open-source technology creates a paradigmatic shift in a fair and inclusive internet where centralized web companies won’t dictate the terms.A vision deferredIn 1989, Berners-Lee’s invention created a virtual space for collaboration, sharing and learning from one another. The web’s first iteration was based on openness, where anyone could contribute, access information, work together, and enjoy the same opportunities.The internet is no longer free in 2025. Capital’s brute force has emboldened centralized companies to exercise authoritarian control over data and information flows.Unfortunately, these companies have acquired their power and resources from unaware users who unknowingly contributed to their capital accumulation strategies. Web2 companies surreptitiously collect data from users without fair compensation and use that as a weapon to control user behavior.Corporations harness user data to train opaque algorithms and deploy information “discoverability” to shape users’ beliefs and emotions. This practice is visible mainly on centralized social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and X, with multiple scandals and pending litigations eroding user trust.For example, in June 2024, Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, received 11 complaints from European Union members. The complaints concerned using personal data like posts and images to train Meta’s AI models without consent, violating EU privacy laws.Recent: The case against Pavel Durov and why it’s important for cryptoThe Cambridge Analytica scandal demonstrated how companies mine data to shape political perspectives and election outcomes. These companies also construct pre-determined narratives and shape market behavior by promoting or subverting curated reports, sometimes shaping public perspectives on health and economic data.Under its Digital Markets Act, the European Commission has initiated a noncompliance investigation into Apple, Meta, Amazon and Alphabet’s practices. Meta has also incurred a $1.3 billion fine for failing to comply with privacy regulations.In this environment, “free speech” remains a far-fetched dream because the entire tech stack is hostile to accessibility and openness. To realize Berners-Lee’s vision, apps must use a decentralized tech stack and be built from the ground up on an open architecture.Make the internet free (again)An app’s tech stack consists of its front and back ends, data storage and Content Delivery Network (CDN). Web2 platforms depend on a centralized tech stack that puts free speech at risk, while most blockchain-powered apps leverage a censorship-resistant decentralized tech stack with high uptime.Some decentralized applications (DApps) build their front end on a decentralized interface. Most of their back end, however, is still stuck on centralized data infrastructure.For example, despite their censorship vulnerabilities and single failure points, decentralized applications (DApps) often use centralized cloud providers and data hosting platforms. These types of attack vectors make projects like Tornado Cash subject to the changing moods of state actors.Shifting to open-source protocols for distributed data storage like InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) and Filecoin upholds the free speech philosophy on DApps. These protocols offer a censorship-resistant, tamper-proof storage facility that remains accessible without arbitrary outages.DApps also use centralized remote procedure call (RPC) providers to supply data from the back-end to the front-end interface, especially across multiple networks. But any outage or attack, like the one on X, can lead to downtime, inaccuracies, data gaps and disconnected information flows. If it doesn’t seem like much, remember downtime or inaccuracies in decentralized finance can cost billions.Decentralized protocols avoid these situations by transforming data accessibility and transfer channels with independent node operators. Data queries are distributed across the network, eliminating any single point of failure and providing uninterrupted data availability. More importantly, it safeguards free speech rights because no single node can block or obstruct data flow, and the network remains accessible even if several nodes go offline.CDNs, yet another crucial component for serving user requests, can become inaccessible due to market pressure or political influence. Opaque decisions from closed-door meetings dictate data flows on CDNs without any certainty in information flows.Start with the basicsDecentralized protocols remove the need for centralized decision-making by enabling apps to directly access data without intermediaries. These permissionless protocols connect open-source data and service providers with users and applications, removing human interaction and associated manufactured problems.Blockchain-powered platforms lay the foundation for a decentralized tech stack that promotes free speech and isn’t controlled by centralized Web2 companies. These permissionless protocols build an open-source world and return the internet to Berners-Lee’s vision of a global and accessible network.Opinion by: Chris Jenkins, adviser to Pocket Network.This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions of Cointelegraph.

blockonomi.com Nexchain’s Presale Hits $1M Milestone

Nexchain has officially crossed the $1 million mark in its ongoing crypto presale — a major achievement that’s turning heads across the Web3 space. As one of 2025’s most promising blockchain projects, Nexchain is gaining serious momentum thanks to its community-first approach, transparent DAO governance, and real-world AI integrations. The success of the presale signals [...] The post Nexchain’s Presale Hits $1M Milestone appeared first on Blockonomi.

bitcoinist.com SEC to Approve SOL, XRP, and DOGE ETFs, as $1M Bitcoin Prediction Rallies New Crypto Projects

The SEC is likely to approve SOL, XRP, and DOGE ETFs in the coming months. This, as another $1M Bitcoin prediction could cause new crypto projects to explode. Bloomberg analysts Erich Balchunas and James Seyffart predicted with 75% certainty that the SEC will approve multiple spot altcoin ETFs by the end of 2025, most likely […]

cointelegraph.com Ether more ‘like a memecoin,’ says trading firm as ETH drops 45% YTD

As Ether’s price has struggled in the first quarter of 2025, a US-based investment adviser firm, Two Prime, has dropped support for ETH and adopted a Bitcoin-only strategy.After lending $1.5 billion in loans both in Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) over the past 15 months, Two Prime decided to ditch ETH to focus solely on BTC asset management and lending, the firm announced on May 1.“ETH’s statistical trading behavior, value proposition, and community culture have failed beyond a point that is worth engaging,” Two Primes stated.The firm’s shift to a Bitcoin-only approach comes as ETH has lost 45% of its value year-to-date, with some optimists speculating that ETH is potentially close to the bottom and reversing its negative trend soon.“Ether no longer trades predictably”“As an algorithmic trading firm, we value data more than narratives,” Two Primes said, adding that the “data suggests ETH has fundamentally changed.”In addition to de-correlating from Bitcoin, Ether has become no longer predictable, Two Primes argued, adding:“It trades now like a memecoin rather than a predictable asset. Even during the turbulence of Q1 2025, Bitcoin remained within its fundamental behavior, whereas ETH saw several multi-standard deviation moves.”Two Primes then went on to say that such conditions “create a headache” for both algorithmic trading and ETH-back lending as the asset no longer behaves predictably, “even by the high volatility expectations of digital asset markets.”Founded in 2019 by Alexander Blum and Marc Fleury, Two Prime is an investment advisory firm registered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm has been offering trading and lending services for both BTC and ETH for the past six years.Community fires back: ETH bottom signalTwo Prime’s critical remarks about Ether were quick to trigger responses from the community, with many seeing the message as another bottom signal for the cryptocurrency.“What a retarded essay statement,” one market observer wrote on X, citing the high volatility of the S&P 500, which dropped 4.7% YTD.Source: SEMB“Never even heard of them. Seems irrelevant,” another commentator said, expressing doubt on whether the community should rely on Two Prime’s shifting approach to Ether.“If this isn’t a bottom signal for ETH idk [I don’t know] what is,” another poster speculated, joining the many expecting ETH price to bounce following a downtrend cycle.Who else ditched ETH in the past months?Two Primes also mentioned the weak performance of Ether exchange-traded funds (ETFs), highlighting that BTC ETF buying has outpaced ETH by almost 24 times. “The failure of ETH’s ETF creates a reflexive loop whereby institutions like BlackRock dedicate fewer resources to their promotion and sale. BTC has found the mainstream while ETH has floundered,” the firm stated.Related: Vitalik Buterin outlines vision as Ethereum ecosystem addresses hit new highDespite Ether ETFs seeing low performance, Ether is still the biggest altcoin for crypto ETFs in terms of assets under management (AUM), far outpacing others like Solana (SOL) and XRP (XRP).According to the latest update from CoinShares, Ether-based exchange-traded products had $9.2 billion in AUM by the end of last week, while Solana and XRP followed with $1.4 billion and $1 billion, respectively.Crypto ETP flows by asset (in millions of US dollars). Source: CoinSharesFollowing approval from the US SEC in May 2024, spot Ether ETFs saw a slow start in 2024, with performance losing ground compared to the massive spot Bitcoin ETF debut.Amid low investor demand, some issuers like VanEck ceased trading futures Ether ETFs, while WisdomTree withdrew its Ethereum Trust ETF proposal in September 2024. In March 2025, ARK liquidated its futures ETFs for both Ether and Bitcoin.Magazine: Ethereum is destroying the competition in the $16.1T TradFi tokenization race

news.bitcoin.com Report: Tether Targets US Market With New Stablecoin Launch by Year-End

During a CNBC interview, Paolo Ardoino, Tether’s chief executive, disclosed that the firm intends to introduce a new stablecoin for the U.S. market this year. Tether Preps U.S. Stablecoin Launch, CEO Says It Outpaces TradFi in Enforcement Commanding the world’s largest stablecoin, with $148.94 billion in circulation, Tether has plans to launch yet another stablecoin […]

cointelegraph.com Moon soon? XRP's 'strongest spot premium' aligns with 70% rally setup

Key takeaways:XRP’s strongest spot premium phase suggests real buying demand, not just speculative futures trading. The number of XRP addresses holding ≥10,000 tokens has steadily climbed, even during recent price pullbacks. A falling wedge pattern points to a possible breakout toward $3 to $3.78, with up to 70% upside if confirmed.XRP (XRP) is experiencing its strongest sustained phase of spot premium in history, a period where the spot market has been consistently trading at stronger levels compared to perpetual futures.XRP’s 350% rally is backed by real demand Since 2020, most major XRP price peaks happened when the perpetual futures market was leading, noted market analyst Dom in his May 2 post on X. XRP’s futures prices being higher than spot signaled excessive speculation and led to sharp price drops.XRP/USD daily price ft. spot vs premium rates. Source: TradingView/DomAs of 2025, a spot premium suggests that demand from actual XRP buyers is driving the rally, pointing to a more stable price rise compared to past runs powered by leveraged bets.Further reinforcing the case for real demand, Glassnode data shows a consistent rise in the number of XRP addresses holding at least 10,000 XRP (the green wave in the chart below) since late November 2024. XRP’s price has rallied by approximately 350% since then.XRP number of addresses with a balance of over 10,000 tokens vs. price. Source: GlassnodeXRP’s whale count has risen even during its 35% price pullback between January and April. It suggests that larger holders—often viewed as more patient or strategic investors—are steadily accumulating positions in anticipation of further gains.Optimism has been fueled by improving odds of spot XRP ETF approval in the US. The US Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) decision to drop its lawsuit against Ripple has further boosted the market’s upside sentiment.Source: Eric BalchunasRelated: SEC punts decisions on XRP, DOGE ETFsFalling wedge hints at 70% XRP price rally XRP has been consolidating within a falling wedge pattern on the weekly chart — a structure defined by downward-sloping, converging trendlines. In technical analysis, this pattern is generally viewed as a bullish reversal signal.A confirmed breakout requires a clear move above the wedge’s upper resistance near $2.52. XRP/USD weekly price chart. Source: TradingViewIf XRP breaks this level, the pattern’s measured move — calculated from the wedge’s maximum height — suggests a potential rally toward $3.78 by June. This would represent an estimated 70% upside from the current prices.Conversely, if XRP fails to break above the $2.52 resistance, the price could pull back toward the wedge’s lower trendline. The pattern’s apex near $1.81 may act as the final potential breakout point.A breakout from the $1.81 level would still keep the pattern’s structure intact, with a potential upside target around $3 by June or July — roughly 35% above current levels.This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.

cointelegraph.com Bitcoin unsure as recession looms, US-China tariff talks kick off

Bitcoin’s recovery to its all-time high may be threatened by rising recession fears, which could ease if the United States and China begin tariff negotiations this month, research analysts told Cointelegraph.Appetite for global risk assets such as Bitcoin (BTC) may take another hit, with analysts from Apollo Global Management predicting a recession by the summer.“Apollo predicting Summer Recession: Sharpest decline in earnings outlook since 2020,” cross-asset analyst Samantha LaDuc wrote in an April 26 X post.The progress on the tariff negotiations may be the most significant factor impacting a potential recession and Bitcoin’s price trajectory, according to Aurelie Barthere, principal research analyst at crypto intelligence platform Nansen.Source: Samantha LaDuc“May is seen as pivotal as Chinese shipments reach the US’s shores, and exemptions on some tariff categories such as auto parts and sub-USD-800 shipments from China/ Hong Kong expire,” Barthere told Cointelegraph, adding that a lack of negotiations in May could lead to an economic recession and “double-digit losses” for Bitcoin.However, this is the least likely scenario, since neither China nor the US “ has an economic interest in the interruption of bilateral trade,” Barthere said, adding:“Given this, the main tariff scenario is for the US reaching deals or at least ‘agreements in principle’ with its main trade partners, probably settling around the 10% reciprocal tariff ‘floor’.”If that scenario plays out and trade tensions ease in May, Bitcoin is likely to revisit its all-time high, Barthere said. The US has “proactively reached out to China through multiple channels,” for signaling its openness for tariff negotiations, Reuters reported on May 1, citing unnamed sources who spoke to state-affiliated Chinese media platform Yuyuan Tantian.Related: Bitcoin treasury firms driving $200T hyperbitcoinization — Adam BackBitcoin may rally despite recessionWhile most analysts hope to see trade negotiations in May alleviate economic concerns, Bitcoin may see more upside even in the face of a potential recession.“Initially, Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies may experience volatility, dropping alongside risk assets like stocks due to investor sell-offs,” Anndy Lian, author and intergovernmental blockchain adviser, told Cointelegraph, adding:“Historical data, such as Bitcoin’s recovery post-2020 recession, suggests it could rebound, especially if seen as a hedge against inflation.”“In stagflation (high inflation and slow growth), Bitcoin, often compared to gold, may perform well, attracting investors seeking value preservation. Yet, its increased correlation with the stock market, particularly tech stocks, introduces uncertainty,” said Lian, adding that crypto investors should continue monitoring economic policy shifts to gauge market direction.BTC/USD, 1-week chart, 2020-2021. Source: Cointelegraph/TradingViewHowever, Bitcoin’s increasing correlation with tech stocks adds uncertainty to that outlook. Following the COVID-19 crash in March 2020, Bitcoin surged more than 1,050%, climbing from $6,000 to an all-time high of $69,000 in November 2021. That rally came after the Federal Reserve launched its $4 trillion asset purchase program in March 2020.Related: Bitcoin to $1M by 2029 fueled by ETF and gov’t demand — Bitwise execOther industry watchers remain concerned by the crypto market’s response to economic stagnation.“If the analysts are correct about the recession (which is certainly not guaranteed), crypto markets will likely decline alongside broader risk-on assets and equities,” according to Marcin Kazmierczak, co-founder and chief operating officer of blockchain oracle firm RedStone.Kazmierczak said April’s “Liberation Day tariffs and trucking slowdown could create economic contagion that historically hits speculative assets hardest.” “While crypto’s growing institutional adoption introduces some uncertainty, it’s not enough to overcome the fundamental risk-on classification that still dominates market behavior,” he added.Magazine: Altcoin season to hit in Q2? Mantra’s plan to win trust: Hodler’s Digest, April 13 – 19

bitcoinmagazine.com Metaplanet Issues $25 Million in Bonds to Buy More Bitcoin

Bitcoin Magazine Metaplanet Issues $25 Million in Bonds to Buy More Bitcoin Japanese investment firm Metaplanet announced Thursday it will issue 3.6 billion yen ($24.8 million) in bonds to fund additional Bitcoin purchases, as the company continues its aggressive accumulation strategy. This post Metaplanet Issues $25 Million in Bonds to Buy More Bitcoin first appeared on Bitcoin Magazine and is written by Vivek Sen.

ambcrypto.com BTCC Exchange Scores Big on Day 1 of TOKEN2049 Dubai with Interactive Basketball and Viral Mascot Nakamon

BTCC, one of the world's longest-serving cryptocurrency exchanges, made a spectacular splash on the first day of TOKEN2049 Dubai with its eye-catching basketball-themed booth and widely popular mascotThe post BTCC Exchange Scores Big on Day 1 of TOKEN2049 Dubai with Interactive Basketball and Viral Mascot Nakamon appeared first on AMBCrypto.

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Virtuaalsete üllatuskastide platvorm Jemlit on käivitanud uue päevase kampaania, mille raames jagatakse igapäevaselt kuni 500 dollari väärtuses auhindu aktiivseimatele kasutajatele. Tegemist on uue formaadiga, mis ühendab mängulise põnevuse ja reaalsed võidud, pakkudes kasutajatele võimaluse avastada tuntud kaubamärkide tooteid – alates tehnikast kuni luksuskaupadeni. Võiduvõimalused, mis põhinevad läbipaistval süsteemil Jemliti keskkonnas avavad kasutajad digitaalseid kastikesi, mille […]