South Korea’s Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) announced on Monday that it would begin using a new AI-based surveillance system to combat unfair virtual asset trading. The system, the Virtual Assets Intelligence System for Trading Analysis (VISTA), was developed by the regulator’s Virtual Asset Investigation Bureau.

According to the official announcement, VISTA uses a new sliding window grid search algorithm to automatically spot price manipulation. The upgrade was launched in Seoul to tackle the growing complexity of high-frequency trading and API-based market abuses that have often escaped manual checks.

Using the new system, the FSS hopes to better protect consumers and establish a transparent order in the rapidly changing virtual asset market. This is a major shift from the laborious process of manual checks to high-speed data processing.

Enhanced detection capabilities

The FSS confirmed that the new algorithm can break down suspicious trading periods into sub-second intervals. This allows for a level of analysis that human investigators couldn’t achieve before. The regulator stated that the system has already shown its effectiveness by identifying all suspicious intervals in previously closed cases and even uncovering additional manipulative actions that investigators had previously missed. 

This launch is a key part of the FSS’s larger strategy to incorporate strong computing power, including high-performance GPUs and CPUs, into its daily enforcement activities to keep up with the technical challenges of the cryptocurrency sector.

Evolution of infrastructure

The development builds on the FSS’s earlier efforts to improve its internal Virtual Asset Intelligence System. Since it started, the agency has used Python-based analysis tools to visualize trading patterns and identify unusual transaction indicators. 

However, as unfair trading practices became more advanced and high-frequency, the FSS recognized the need for a more powerful infrastructure. In late 2025, the agency began to prepare for this transition by acquiring high-performance servers to support AI integration and parallel data processing.

Advanced VISTA technology

The updated VISTA platform centers on the sliding window grid search technique. Unlike traditional methods that look at broad snapshots, this approach analyzes every possible sub-segment from time-series data, from fractions of a second to several months. 

Because this method requires extensive computational resources, the FSS has optimized its platform for parallel processing. This allows it to analyze hundreds of thousands of segments at the same time.

In the pilot testing involving five different digital assets, the algorithm either matched or outperformed human investigation efforts, as evidenced by the higher abnormal trading indicators in all test scenarios.

Future AI roadmap

The FSS plans to expand its AI capabilities through a multi-stage roadmap set for completion by the end of 2026. The next phase will involve the development of clustering algorithms to automatically identify groups of suspicious accounts participating in organized price manipulation. 

The regulator also plans to employ Large Language Models (LLMs) to analyze text data from thousands of different virtual assets to identify possible fraud. The final phase will involve the development of a network graph-based tracking system to analyze on-chain data and fund movements, enabling investigators to view connections between suspects and their transactions.

Future global regulation

The FSS is positioning itself as a leader in crypto regulation by moving toward an AI-focused enforcement model. With the automation of the detection of price manipulation, as well as the expansion of services into account clustering and on-chain tracking, the agency believes that it will be able to largely reduce the processing time of cases. 

The FSS said that it will continue to improve its AI-powered investigation system to quickly detect unfair trading. It will take strict actions through thorough investigations to protect users and create a stable market.

Also Read: South Korea Dismantles $102M Crypto Laundering Ring

On January 27, PayPal and the National Cryptocurrency Association released a joint study showing that 90% of U.S. merchants would start accepting cryptocurrency payments if the user experience and setup process were as simple as using traditional credit cards. 

This demand comes as nearly four out of ten merchants already accept digital assets, encouraged by high interest from younger shoppers. The report shows a change in the retail landscape, where the main barrier to widespread adoption has shifted from a lack of interest to a need for better technical integration.

The biggest myth about crypto payments? That merchants aren’t interested.

The reality: 90% say they’d try it if the setup matched card payments.

The demand is there.
The unlock is making crypto feel familiar at checkout. @NatCryptoAssoc https://t.co/ds3tzVg6ab

— PayPal (@PayPal) February 2, 2026

Rising enterprise adoption

The survey results challenge the common belief that businesses are reluctant to engage with digital currencies. According to the data, 39% of U.S. merchants have already added crypto at checkout.

Adoption reaches 50% among large companies earning over $500 million annually. For those already involved, crypto is no longer just an experiment; it makes up 26% of total sales for participating merchants.

The shift toward digital assets is a direct response to consumer demand. 88% of businesses report receiving customer inquiries about crypto payment options.

Growth tools for accessibility 

May Zabaneh, Vice President and General Manager of Crypto at PayPal, said crypto payments are moving beyond experimentation and into everyday use.

“Adoption is driven by customer demand for faster, more flexible ways to pay. Once businesses start accepting crypto, they see real value,” Zabaneh said. “When crypto payments feel as familiar as cards or online payments, they become an effective growth tool, helping businesses reach new customers and access funds more quickly.” 

“When crypto payments are offered in ways that feel as familiar as cards or online payments, they become a powerful growth tool, helping businesses reach new customers and access funds more quickly,” she added. Small business owners, such as Nikisha Bailey of Win Win Coffee, agree. They state that having flexibility and choice in payment options helps ensure independent businesses can grow alongside their customers.

Evolving industry utility

Cryptocurrency was once seen as a speculative asset rather than a payment method. However, recent years have shown steady growth in merchant usefulness. The report shows that industries like hospitality and travel are leading with an 81% adoption rate, followed closely by digital goods and luxury retail at 76%.

This is led by Millennials and Gen Z, who have expressed a high level of interest at 77% and 73%, respectively. The main drivers for merchants to facilitate the switch-over are faster speeds and new customer acquisition.

Future market normalization

The study suggests that the next five years will see the rapid normalization of digital assets. 84% of merchants predict that crypto payments will become common by 2031. 

For fintech providers, the focus is now on lowering the barrier to entry. Stu Alderoty, President of the National Cryptocurrency Association, explained that interest in crypto isn’t the issue; understanding it is. Alderoty said, “Too many people still don’t see how crypto fits into their everyday lives.”

“That’s why partnerships with trusted platforms like PayPal are so important. We’re working together to help close the knowledge gap and show how crypto can be simple, accessible, and easy for everyday businesses and consumers,” he stated.

Solving the usability gap

The report concludes that the key to moving from current adoption to a crypto-saturated market is usability. While security features and privacy are important selling points for 41% and 40% of merchants, the “final hurdle” is achieving the same ease as traditional financial systems. 

If payment processors can replicate the simplicity of a credit card swipe for digital tokens, the 90% of merchants currently waiting are likely to begin implementation. This would fundamentally change the standard checkout experience for American consumers.

Also Read: USD1 Overtakes PayPal’s PYUSD as Stablecoin Race Heats Up

A post shared on X on Monday claimed that U.S. President Donald Trump would sign a major Bitcoin and crypto market bill today at 3:30 PM, releasing $3 trillion in liquidity.

However, official government records, statements from key lawmakers, and the congressional calendar show no such event or executive agenda. The rumors may stem from meeting with banks today.

The White House press briefing room and official websites of sponsoring senators show no indication of a signing ceremony. Moreover, the widely circulated $3 trillion liquidity figure has no credible source and does not appear in any proposed legislation.

🚨 BREAKING:

🇺🇸 PRESIDENT TRUMP IS SET TO SIGN THE BITCOIN & CRYPTO MARKET BILL TODAY AT 3:30 PM.

THE LEGISLATION IS EXPECTED TO UNLOCK OVER $3 TRILLION IN LIQUIDITY, POTENTIALLY FLOWING INTO FINANCIAL MARKETS.

MAJOR CATALYST.

EXTREMELY BULLISH FOR CRYPTO. pic.twitter.com/VTvAXVGQKY

— Mr. Crypto Whale 🐋 (@Mrcryptoxwhale) February 2, 2026

What is Crypto Market Bill?

The Crypto Market Bill is a proposed federal framework that aims to clarify whether digital assets fall under the regulation of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The bill is intended to provide the legal certainty required for institutional banks and large financial markets to invest in blockchain technology.

Recent legislative progress

The speculation comes after legislative action on a number of bills related to the crypto space, such as the Genius Act and the Clarity Act. Although the Trump administration has been showing a more favorable view toward digital assets compared to previous years, moving a bill from the Senate and House floors to the Oval Office requires a clear series of votes and public disclosures.

None of these steps point to a signing scheduled for today, making the “breaking” claims on social media inconsistent from a current parliamentary procedure standpoint. The fact that rumors like these are being spread around indicates the volatility and sensitivity of the crypto market to social media news. If a bill of this magnitude were to be signed, it would result in a more organized regulatory framework for exchanges. 

Risk of market manipulation

Traders may act on these claims only to suffer losses when the projected event does not happen. Investors should proceed with caution, as misinformation campaigns often target retail investors during times of high market anticipation.

As the industry waits for federal oversight, investors should rely on official government websites and verified news outlets instead of anonymous social media claims. As of this afternoon, no Bitcoin-related legislation has been added to the executive agenda for immediate action.

Also Read: Why Trump is Taking His Own Government to the Court

Strategy Inc., a Bitcoin (BTC) treasury firm, announced that it expanded its digital asset treasury by purchasing an additional 855 BTC for about $75.3 million. The acquisition, disclosed on Monday, took place between January 26 and February 1 at an average price of $87,974 per coin.

The purchase was funded through the sale of shares in the company’s at-the-market (ATM) offering program. This maintains Strategy’s position as the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin. The move continues the firm’s strategy despite the recent market drop, where BTC plummeted from its 2025 highs to briefly touch levels below $76,000.

Strategy has acquired 855 BTC for ~$75.3 million at ~$87,974 per bitcoin. As of 2/1/2026, we hodl 713,502 $BTC acquired for ~$54.26 billion at ~$76,052 per bitcoin. $MSTR $STRC https://t.co/tYTGMwPPUF

— Michael Saylor (@saylor) February 2, 2026

The acquisition comes at a time of extreme market volatility. On January 30, Strategy Inc.’s stock experienced an 11% drawdown as Bitcoin fell below the $85,000 level, which shows the correlation between the company’s stock and the asset.

Coin basis update

As of February 1, Strategy Inc.’s total holdings reached 713,502 BTC, which represents an investment of roughly $54.26 billion. The average price comes to $76,052 per BTC. 

In its latest filing, the company reported generating $106.1 million in net proceeds by selling 673,527 shares of its Class A common stock to fund these new purchases.

In addition to common stock sales, Strategy Inc. manages several classes of preferred stock, including its Series A Perpetual Stretch Preferred Stock. The company recently raised the dividend rate for this particular security to 11.25% per year, effective February 1. 

The change suggests the company is encouraging traditional investment to support its ongoing digital asset purchases while still having a significant amount of “available for issuance” capacity across its different types of securities.

Recent purchases 

Strategy Inc. has continued its accumulation of Bitcoin in recent weeks. On January 20, the company surpassed 700,000 BTC in total holdings with a purchase of $2.13 billion. A week later, on January 27, it announced the acquisition of another 2,932 Bitcoin for $264 million. These successive large-scale acquisitions point to a period of heightened activity for the company.

Similarly, OranjeBTC, a Brazil-based Bitcoin treasury company, announced that it has continued its Bitcoin accumulation strategy. The firm has updated its reserves to 3,722.3 BTC, with a portfolio composition of around 43,604 shares per bitcoin.

🇧🇷 Nesta semana, a OranjeBTC retomou a execução de operações estruturadas voltadas à recompra de ações, mantendo disciplina na alocação de capital.

Números atualizados:
• 3.722,3 BTC em reservas
• Ações por Bitcoin: 43.604
• BTC Yield 1T26: 0,11%
• BTC Yield acumulado: 2,50%… pic.twitter.com/OEoVaxzPFF

— OranjeBTC (@ORANJEBTC) February 2, 2026

These numbers make a cumulative BTC yield of 2.50%, with the company posting a Q1 26 yield of 0.11% as of early February. This simultaneous activity shows a general market trend in which Bitcoin-related companies are utilizing the market crash to their advantage, like Strategy Inc. 

Bitcoin price update

At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading at $77,893, reflecting a decline of approximately 0.43% over 24 hours. The total market capitalization stands at $1.55 trillion, representing a 0.5% decline. The circulating supply remains at 19.98 million BTC out of the total 21 million BTC. 

Strategy Inc. currently owns about 3.4% of the overall Bitcoin supply.

The firm’s filings show it has billions of dollars left for future stock issuances. Specifically, over $8 billion remains in its common stock ATM program, while over $20 billion is available for its 8.00% Series A Perpetual Strike Preferred Stock. This shows that the firm will continue its buying spree despite the price fluctuations in the crypto market.

Also Read: Bitcoin Drops 7%: $1.7B Liquidated as Markets Panic Over Potential Fed Pick

The digital collectibles market saw a sharp slowdown this week, with NFT sales declining by 41% across major blockchains. According to CryptoSlam data, Bitcoin-based NFT sales, primarily driven by Ordinals, witnessed a 70.07% decline in volume as of Saturday.

Despite the broader slowdown, CryptoPunks and Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) continued to rank among the top 10 collections by monthly volume.

Flying Tulip PUT led the month overall, with $74 million in sales. While CryptoPunks recorded more than $13 million in volume, outperforming most newer projects and rising 57% week-over-week, BAYC recorded $6 million in sales, rising 21%.

Divergence in market activity

The current market conditions create a confusing environment where financial activity and retail engagement are diverging. Although Bitcoin NFT sales volume declined by over 70% to $6.66 million, the network still saw a 30.87% increase in new participants.

At the time of writing, the total number of buyers for the week has reached 10,905. This suggests that while major transactions have slowed, a new group of smaller collectors is joining the ecosystem.

Ethereum continued to dominate all blockchains with $46.92 million in NFT sales, falling 38.78% over the seven-day period. The network drew 28,096 buyers, up 18.26% from the prior week. Wash trading on Ethereum totaled $4.94 million during this timeframe.

Base recorded $2.26 million in NFT sales, marking a 35.45% gain, while BNB Chain followed with $7.73 million, reflecting a 10.24% increase over the past week. 

This recent volatility follows a time when Bitcoin Ordinals had become a major player in the NFT space, often matching or surpassing Ethereum in daily volume. However, the current downturn is a part of the overall cooling down of the speculative fervor that led to record-breaking asset prices a few months ago.

Correlation with asset prices

The NFT market has traditionally followed the price actions of the underlying assets, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, which have been under pressure lately.

The current trend indicates substantial “bottom-fishing” activity in the Bitcoin space. The data indicates that institutional and “whale” liquidity are leaving high-priced Ordinals, while retail collectors are seizing the opportunity to join the ecosystem at lower prices. 

Future market outlook

This trend suggests that even though the total value of the market is decreasing, the number of holders is actually growing, which could lead to a more decentralized ownership structure for Bitcoin-based digital assets.

The future of this shift depends on whether these new retail participants stay active if prices remain flat. If the trend of increasing buyer numbers continues despite falling volumes, the market might be moving from a high-stakes speculative space to a more accessible retail environment.

Also Read: Bitcoin Falls Below $85K as $850M Gets Liquidated in Market Sell-Off

Step Finance, a portfolio management service on the Solana blockchain, has confirmed today that a security breach compromised some of its treasury wallets. The incident came to light shortly after the occurrence of the breach, leading to the unstaking and subsequent transfer of around 261,854 SOL, worth over $28 million at the time of the breach.

The breach was detected by the on-chain data that highlighted a major unstaking of assets from the protocol’s treasury. The data also indicated that the assets were transferred at 08:20 UTC. In an X post on Saturday, the protocol acknowledged the situation publicly to keep users informed, stating that there had been a breach of security for some of their treasury wallets.

There has been a breach of security for some of our treasury wallets hours ago and we are currently investigating

More information will be posted at a later stage

— Step☀️ (@StepFinance_) January 31, 2026

Following the disclosure, users were advised to safeguard their wallets by revoking smart contract permissions previously granted to Step Finance. Active approvals allow applications to move assets, and compromised administrative control could potentially lead to further unauthorized withdrawals.

By using revocation tools or blockchain explorers to cancel these allowances, users can break the link between their funds and the affected contracts. This helps in preventing additional losses even if the protocol remains compromised.

Emergency recovery efforts

In response to the exploit, Step Finance has begun searching for external technical support to track the stolen assets and secure remaining funds. 

The team said it is reaching out to specialized digital forensics organizations to help manage the fallout. Regarding their recovery efforts, the team noted, “We are contacting Cybersecurity firms to assist. Any firms who can assist feel free to slide into DMs.”

We are contacting Cybersecurity firms to assist.

Any firms who can assist feel free to slide into DMshttps://t.co/uNN5l6TYVL

— Step☀️ (@StepFinance_) January 31, 2026

Platform ecosystem role

Step Finance has been a central dashboard for Solana users, providing functionality to monitor yields, swaps, and NFT portfolios. As a project within the Solana ecosystem, the importance of its treasury cannot be overstated in ensuring that it remains liquid and develops its offerings. 

Although the Solana network remains functional, this incident is the latest in a string of high-profile DeFi hacks in which the attackers focus on private key management or multisig configurations of the treasuries of large protocol projects.

Future implications

If the stolen 261,854 SOL cannot be recovered or frozen on centralized exchanges, Step Finance may face challenges in carrying out its long-term plans. The incident could also prompt a wider movement within the Solana community for stronger, third-party audited treasury management solutions to avert similar unauthorized deactivations of staked assets.

The investigation into the wallet compromise is still ongoing, with the Step Finance team set to release an announcement once the security teams have finished their analysis. Until then, the protocol remains under observation as the team works to ensure that there are no other vulnerabilities within their wallet infrastructure.

Also Read: Waltio Files Complaint Over Extortion and Crypto Data Breach

Tether, the issuer of USDT, recently announced that it is transporting over a ton of physical gold each week to a high-security vault in Switzerland. The accumulation supports its digital dollar, USDT, and its gold-backed token, XAUT. 

With this move, Tether has become one of the largest private holders of gold outside central banks and governments. The company says the decision to diversify into physical assets is meant to ensure that the company’s reserves, which are valued at several billion dollars, remain stable in the face of growing geopolitical tensions and the fall in value of fiat currencies.

Surpassing sovereign gold reserves

Tether is reportedly using a repurposed Cold War-era nuclear bunker to house its holdings and now holds 140 tons of gold, worth around $24 billion. The amount of gold reserves exceeds those of countries such as Greece, Australia, and South Korea.

The move positions Tether as a “gold central bank” in the private sector. This change indicates a shift for the world’s largest stablecoin issuer, which oversees nearly $187 billion in circulating USDT. While Tether remains committed to Bitcoin, owning over 100,000 units.

CEO Paolo Ardoino has described Bitcoin and Gold as equally vital to the firm’s future. He said, “It is almost like you have two children and have to decide which one is more beautiful.” Ardoino noted, “It’s reasonable that we are going to have around 10% in bitcoin and 10% to 15% in gold.”

Why is Tether buying gold

Tether began increasing its gold holdings in 2026 as stablecoin policy frameworks such as the U.S. GENIUS Act and Europe’s MICA rules moved into enforcement. As a result, regulators are now scrutinizing what reserves are made up of.

In this situation, gold offers Tether an asset with no counterparty risk, independence from U.S. banking rails, and universal acceptance as reserved collateral.

As reserve standards tighten, gold becomes a regulatory hedge as much as a financial one.

From digital to physical

The strategy’s emphasis on fortified physical assets reflects the early days of the industry when pioneers like Xapo stored Bitcoin in Swiss bunkers to shield digital wealth from hackers and government seizure.

However, the current trend marks a change; instead of using vaults to protect digital “gold,” firms now use them to accumulate actual physical metal to safeguard digital “dollars.” The announcement comes as the crypto market faces extreme scrutiny, while the price of gold keeps rising, with the most recent incline by 22% this year, to $5,311 per ounce.

Tether’s gold acquisition goes back to the 2020 pandemic, viewing gold as necessary against a world that is “not in a happy place.” The company’s conviction comes from the fact that the gold price increased last year by 64%. Gold is “logically a safer asset than any national currency,” Ardoino added.

Impact on global demand

The effects of this accumulation also extend beyond the crypto reserves. It is also noted that the price-insensitive accumulation of Tether has a major effect on the demand for gold. 

Tether is now competing with financial institutions by creating a complete supply chain for gold through the recruitment of experienced gold traders from large banks and the purchase of upstream mining royalty firms. 

This strategy suggests that the largest stablecoin issuer is preparing for a future marked by what Ardoino calls the “unraveling of Western economies,” where cryptographic code alone may not provide the necessary stability without support from physical assets.

Also Read: Tether Submits to U.S. Rulebook With New USA₮ Stablecoin

Institutional whales and retail investors experienced a market downturn today as XRP’s market cap dropped below $110 billion. The token fell from $1.91 to $1.75 in recent trading sessions amid huge liquidation that wiped out $62 million, with the majority of longs getting wiped out. 

At the time of writing, XRP is trading at $1.76, reflecting a decline of 2.26% over 24 hours. Its total market capitalization stands at $107.5 billion. As the price drops instigate panic selling from weak hands, the 24-hour trading volume has increased by over 45%.

CoinGlass data shows that XRP experienced a major long squeeze, with over $62.2 million in total liquidations over 24 hours. The long positions accounted for about 98%, i.e., $60.99 million of the total wipeout.

There has been a 4.26x liquidation in the 7-day average. The largest single liquidation was about $17.38 million, suggesting a sharp price pullback. The liquidation heat was primarily concentrated on Hyperliquid, which handled over $44 million, roughly 70%, of the total volume, followed by Bybit and Binance.

Technical breakdown

The price drop was further fueled by a “long squeeze,” where the forced selling of the asset due to liquidated positions caused the price to drop faster than it would have otherwise. The token also experienced a technical breakdown, where XRP dropped below its 30-day Simple Moving Average of $2.02 and the 50% Fibonacci retracement level of $2.09. These levels, which were previously a source of support, have now become a strong source of resistance.

Market data from the last quarter shows that XRP had been trying to stabilize above the $2.00 mark as part of its function as a utility bridge for financial institutions. However, the current decline of 6.59% is much worse than the overall crypto market’s 5.54% drop.

Unlike speculative meme coins, XRP’s value is often linked to institutional risk demand. Its faster decline suggests that large holders are reducing their risk by moving into stablecoins or other major coins, seeking safety as the Altcoin Season Index fell by 12.5%.

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has dropped to 28.29. The lack of huge buying volume shows that market participants are hesitant. Most traders seem to be waiting on the sidelines, looking to see if a deeper bottom forms before investing again.

Bearish signals and RSI levels

TradingView technical gauges have issued a “Sell” signal, backed by a 14-to-0 ratio of bearish to bullish moving averages.

The future implications of this decline focus on the $1.78 swing low and the $110 billion market cap floor. If the total ecosystem valuation falls below this critical point, the liquidation of assets may continue unless buyers purchase the $1.75 level. If XRP is an indicator of institutional fear, then the failure to move above the $2.02 level may signal a long-term downturn for high-utility altcoins.

Also Read: Ethereum Plunges Below $2,700 — Could $2,094 Be Next?

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has stopped Roundhill ETF Trust from launching its proposed 4x leveraged exchange-traded funds. 

The SEC’s Division of Investment Management sent a formal letter to the firm’s counsel, Morrison Warren, regarding the Roundhill 4X SPY ETF and Roundhill 4X QQQQ ETF filings.

The financial and crypto-asset sectors are closely watching this situation, as it reinforces the agency’s plan to impose a strict leverage cap across all open-end fund structures. 

Under Rule 18f-4, all open-end funds, including those holding crypto-linked derivatives, must keep their Value-at-Risk (VaR) within 200% of a reference portfolio. This means that 2x leveraged crypto ETFs sit at the absolute regulatory limit, leaving little room for tracking error, volatility spikes, or structural complexity.

Violating rule 18f-4 leverage limits

The main concern is related to Rule 18f-4 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, which tries to ensure that the risk level associated with leverage in funds remains under control. According to this rule, the Value-at-Risk (VaR) of an open-end fund cannot exceed 200% of the VaR of a reference portfolio. 

Since the proposed ETFs from Roundhill are focused on offering 4x leverage, meaning 400% of the daily return, the SEC believes that this is not possible while remaining within the permissible leverage ratios.

Administrative rejection and fiduciary concerns

The SEC’s intervention came after Roundhill filed post-effective amendments on January 23, seeking to offer 400% daily exposure to major indices. The regulator stated it will not review these filings in detail until the issues in the letter are addressed, and it asked the firm to voluntarily delay the effectiveness of its filings.

This administrative hurdle serves as a clear rejection, as the SEC questioned how the trust’s directors could fulfill their fiduciary duties while pursuing a strategy that appears to go against federal risk management standards.

Risk baseline calculations

Roundhill reportedly tried to use a different baseline to assess its risk profile in its filings. The agency clarified that if a fund’s goal is to track the performance of an unleveraged index such as the S&P 500, it must use that specific index as its reference portfolio.

The SEC noted that the fund’s reference assets accurately represent the fund’s unleveraged portfolio and are the only proper baseline for calculating leverage risk. While 2x and 3x leveraged ETFs have become common for short-term traders, the SEC has typically been cautious about “super-leveraged” options. 

SEC emphasizes rules for issuers

The reaffirmation of Rule 18f-4 in recent years aimed to establish a clear framework for derivatives use. However, this exchange suggests some issuers thought there might be loopholes for products exceeding the 3x limit. The SEC’s current concerns emphasize that the 200% VaR limit is an unmovable barrier for now.

The SEC has made it clear that “more than 200% (2x) leveraged exposure to underlying indices or securities” is facing challenges under current rules. By refusing to review the Roundhill filings until they align with Rule 18f-4, the commission has effectively limited the leverage available in the ETF wrapper.

Issuers must now choose between withdrawing their filings or fundamentally changing their strategies to comply with the 200% risk limit.

Also Read: Grayscale Files S-1 with U.S. SEC for BNB ETF

Dubai Insurance has launched a first-of-its-kind digital wallet, allowing UAE residents to pay for car, health, and home insurance using Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies.

The move, announced on Wednesday, follows a regulatory change within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). It functions under the supervision of the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (ADGM FSRA).

As per a report, the project aims to transform the insurance industry by offering a faster payment solution. This is in line with the UAE’s vision of incorporating digital assets into the economy through the “Next Gen Finance” initiative.

Bypassing traditional banking fees

The new payment system allows customers to pay without going through banks through a direct digital wallet integration developed in collaboration with Zodia Custody. This change prevents the usual delays and high transaction fees tied to bank-led premium payments. It allows for 24/7 instant policy issuance, even on weekends and public holidays.

The introduction of this specialized wallet moves cryptocurrency beyond being a purely speculative investment. It turns it into a practical tool for everyday financial security. 

Residents with digital assets can now manage their insurance needs directly from their portfolios. They do not have to change their assets into fiat money in order to finish a transaction. This is a positive development for the growing number of “crypto-native” professionals in Dubai, who are increasingly earning and spending money in a purely digital environment.

History of proactive regulation

The UAE has historically taken a proactive approach to digital asset regulation. It established VARA in 2022 to create a clear legal framework for virtual asset service providers. Most recently, on January 12, 2026, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) updated its rules. 

This change shifted the responsibility of token suitability assessments to individual firms and fostered a more agile and innovative environment. These regulatory improvements have opened the door for institutional players like Dubai Insurance to connect traditional insurance and blockchain technology.

Future of smart contracts

The success of this model indicates a future where decentralized technologies could further streamline the insurance lifecycle. Industry insiders believe the next level could include the use of smart contracts for automatic settlement of claims. This would enable instant payment into the policyholder’s wallet upon confirmation of a covered event.

By introducing crypto-based insurance payments, Dubai is reinforcing its leadership in the digital economy. The UAE is setting the pace globally by ensuring that its residents are able to insure their lives and properties without the need for banks.

Also Read: Kansas Proposes Bitcoin Reserve Using Unclaimed Digital Assets

Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Paul Atkins discussed a potential shift in federal retirement policy, stating that professional fund managers and trustees should have the authority to include digital assets in 401(k) plans.

In an interview with CNBC on Thursday, Atkins said, “The time is right to go forward with that in a measured way that has guardrails to protect the retirees.”

The SEC hopes to follow a White House executive order focused on digital asset innovation and asset diversification for everyday workers. The proposal seeks to modernize the American retirement system by treating cryptocurrency like institutional pension funds that have already accepted digital assets.

However, while Atkins has expressed support for the idea, no formal rule has been passed. The SEC does not control retirement plans, as that responsibility falls under the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

Current unregulated market

The current state of affairs for 401(k) plans is that there is no clear regulation, leaving those who manage American wealth in a precarious position. If they choose to include crypto and the market crashes, they could be sued for not adequately safeguarding the retirement savings of their participants.

On the other hand, if they choose to exclude digital assets during a market boom, they could face backlash for not providing the modern diversification and competitive returns that the current executive branch now promotes.

Managers now face a tough choice

If passed, the proposal would shift the responsibility of risk from federal regulators to private managers. Sponsors would have to deal with the complex interaction between the latest portfolio theory and the issue of liability. Atkins framed this shift as part of his “Project Crypto” initiative, which emphasizes financial freedom and innovation.

However, this approach puts the wealth managers in a tough spot. Without established safe harbors, these fiduciaries need to consider the potential for institutional growth alongside the risk of lawsuits if the volatile crypto market suffers a major downturn. 

Clearer guidance from regulators, like the Department of Labor, is required to shield managers from personal liability and to define exactly how digital assets can be integrated. As the primary enforcer of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), the department rescinded its “extreme care” warning in May 2025 to return to a neutral stance; it has yet to provide a green light for digital assets.

Industry-friendly regulatory approach

The need for crypto inclusion comes about as the SEC is now taking a more industry-friendly approach under the current administration. Atkins has been vocal about the need to shift away from regulation by enforcement and instead seeks to provide clear channels for new technologies.

This discussion is a part of a larger order that seeks to understand the role of digital assets in domestic savings. However, there might be some with the belief that the volatile nature of assets such as Bitcoin presents a major risk to the retirement savings of millions of American workers.

What comes next

The integration of crypto into 401(k) plans will likely require future coordination between the SEC and the DOL. Until formal regulations or safe harbors are proposed, plan sponsors will likely operate in a period of uncertainty.

While there is high potential for billions of dollars to flow into the crypto ecosystem, the immediate outcome is a complicated legal environment for fund trustees. The coming months will reveal whether the 401(k) market will truly adopt digital assets or if the fear of litigation will keep these trillions of dollars tied to traditional investment options.

Also Read: Tokenized Securities Face Same Rules as Traditional Assets, Says SEC

RIVER, the native asset of a chain-abstraction stablecoin system, fell sharply over the past 24 hours, dropping nearly 29% and is now trading around $49. The decline happened right after the token hit an all-time-high (ATH) of about $87, concluding a month where its value surged nearly 2,000%.

Analysts had already warned about the possible risk of a crash due to low usage and possible manipulated trading, heightened by using leverage options like 80X.

Market watchers attribute this correction to extreme supply concentration and large profit-taking by early investors who exited their positions after a period of rapid growth.

At the time of writing, RIVER is trading at $49.11, with a decline of 29.57% on the day. The total market capitalization has declined by 29.53% in 24 hours, reaching $924.07 million. The 24H volume is $136.22 million with a rise of 70.15%. The circulating supply currently is 19.6 million RIVER, accounting for approximately 19.6% of the 100 million maximum supply.

Institutional funding impact

One of the key factors that contributed to the initial price explosion was a funding round, which drew the attention of institutional investors. Prominent investors like TRON founder Justin Sun and Arthur Hayes’ Maelstrom Fund gave the project a certain degree of legitimacy that helped RIVER boost its market capitalization. 

The funding injected into the project was intended to help the project’s objective of developing a multi-chain stablecoin abstraction layer that would render the need for bridges obsolete when transferring stablecoins between different blockchains.

Major centralization risks

Despite the project’s buzz, on-chain data shows that around 94% of the total RIVER supply is currently held in five individual wallets. This level of concentration of the total supply in the hands of a few individuals means that a handful of investors can create a huge effect on the market price.

Experts in the industry have warned that such a system is fraught with danger and that these ‘whales’ can create massive price crashes at will, leaving retail investors who purchased during the peak with massive losses. The future stability of RIVER is unclear as the market assesses the consequences of this supply distribution.

Although the project is still in the process of building its ecosystem by partnering with other networks such as TRON and Sui, the looming threat of further liquidation by the major holders casts a shadow over the price. Regulatory scrutiny could also increase if this uneven distribution leads to more claims of market manipulation or artificial volume.

The RIVER token is currently experiencing a similar pattern to what most of the other tokens that spiked during the bull market and went downhill once trading euphoria collapsed. While support from industry giants helped drive its 2,000% rise, the 29% fall acts as a reminder of the risks tied to highly centralized assets.

Also Read: Trove Token Crashes 95% After Abandoning Hyperliquid

Researcher Thomas Thiery, known as soispoke, along with other contributors, proposed Fork-Choice Enforced Inclusion Lists (FOCIL, EIP-7805) on Wednesday, aiming to protect Ethereum’s fundamental principles. The mechanism is expected to become a part of the upcoming Hegota upgrade, currently targeted for late 2026.

The adjustment aims to prevent network censorship by allowing multiple validators to work together, ensuring valid transactions are included according to the fork-choice rule. 

By requiring transactions to be processed within a set timeframe, the proposal seeks to limit the growing power of centralized block builders who currently have a lot of control over transaction ordering. Developers are prioritizing this change to keep Ethereum a neutral and decentralized ledger rather than letting it become dominated by a few intermediaries.

A push for fairness

The move toward FOCIL is not just a technical adjustment; it reflects a call for fairness built into Ethereum’s code. The network has had to contend with issues related to the growing influence of specialized builders who are able to selectively decide which transactions to validate in order to maximize their profits or in response to external pressures. 

FOCIL removes this kind of exclusionary power from the centralized bodies and returns it to the thousands of individual validators who help to support the network. This is a reflection of a very important struggle within the environment: the struggle to prevent Ethereum from becoming what it originally set out to replace, the centralized banking systems.

Breaking the builder monopoly

The main feature of EIP-7805 sets a binding requirement for block creation. Currently, a single block builder decides which transactions get included in a block. Under the new proposal, a group of validators will create an inclusion list of pending transactions from the public mempool. 

Thiery’s research paper, “Who Wins Ethereum Block Building Auctions and Why?” shows the urgency of this transition. The study reveals that only three builders produced 80% of all Ethereum blocks between late 2023 and early 2024.

This “chicken-and-egg” problem means dominant builders receive exclusive order flow because they win blocks, and they win blocks because they have exclusive order flow. FOCIL breaks this cycle by introducing a committee-based design where a rotating group of validators get local inclusion lists based on their own view of the mempool.

Cryptographic guarantee of neutrality

If a builder tries to leave out these transactions, the fork-choice rule will require validators to reject that block and select another one that follows the list. This offers a cryptographic guarantee that no one entity can permanently gatekeep the blockchain.

The proposal responds directly to the delay of similar features in the previous Glamsterdam upgrade. Although Glamsterdam, set for the first half of 2026, focuses on Proposer-Builder Separation (ePBS) to promote fairness in the network, developers concluded that FOCIL needed more thorough review before becoming a key feature. 

Future protocol resilience

By separating censorship resistance from block production, Ethereum can continue to grow with builders without compromising its credibility. For users, this means better assurance that their transactions won’t be unjustly blocked or delayed by institutional competitors or centralized intermediaries. For the wider industry, it sets an example for protocol-level resistance against the “cartelization” of block building, ensuring that the network’s rules stay clear and fair.

Adding FOCIL as the primary feature for Hegota shows the dedication to the blockchain’s core principles. As the scale and resource requirements for the node operators grow, the risk of centralization becomes more prominent. Through this move, Ethereum can maintain its position to build a system that is open to all, irrespective of the changes in the regulatory or economic landscape.

Also Read: Ethereum Stakers Wait 61 Days for 2.8% Yield: Why Demand Is Rising

Fidelity Investments announced on Wednesday that it will launch its own stablecoin, the Fidelity Digital Dollar, or FIDD. The token will be accessible to institutional and retail investors in the coming weeks and will maintain a 1:1 peg with the U.S. dollar using cash reserves and short-term U.S. Treasuries.

With this launch, Fidelity is aiming to use its large existing infrastructure to compete directly with established players like Tether, Circle, and Ripple during a time of rapid regulatory changes in the United States.

Regulatory compliance and framework

As per a report, the rollout follows the passage of the Genius Act, a federal law that created an official U.S. regulatory framework for digital dollars. FIDD is based on the Ethereum blockchain and is intended to be a high-efficiency settlement layer for Fidelity’s trading and wealth management activities.

Mike O’Reilly, President of Fidelity Digital Assets, said that as digital asset adoption continues to grow, the company saw the stablecoin launch as the logical next step for the market and its clients. The launch aims to create a compliant, easy-to-use environment for around-the-clock liquidity and global payments.

Vertical integration advantage 

A key advantage of Fidelity in the stablecoin market is its vertical integration as a traditional financial giant. While the market leaders Tether and Circle are primarily issuers and rely on third-party partners for banking and custody, Fidelity operates its own federally chartered national trust bank.

This enables the firm to act as the issuer, custodian, and exchange simultaneously. By managing the entire financial framework internally, Fidelity reduces counterparty risk often linked with stablecoins, providing a “closed-loop” system that may attract conservative institutional investors who have previously steered clear of the fragmented sector.

Market competition and testing

The launch of FIDD comes nearly a year after reports indicated Fidelity was testing a stablecoin. The current market is very competitive. Tether-issued USDT still leads with about 60% market share. Circle comes in at second place with USDC having approximately 23%, followed by others in a relatively small margin.

Recently, Tether has launched its USAT stablecoin. While Fidelity uses its own bank for safety, Tether’s move attempts to neutralize its “offshore” reputation by submitting to the GENIUS Act and moving its primary reserve management to U.S.-regulated firms.

The long-term effects of FIDD’s launch could lead to the easing of traditional capital markets. By moving dollars onto a blockchain, Fidelity hopes to improve efficiency in its various wealth management platforms since digital transfers tend to be cheaper and faster than traditional networks like ACH.

Future market outlook

O’Reilly noted that many firms use stablecoins as the settlement method on crypto platforms because they offer liquidity for providers and firms year-round at a low cost. Additionally, Fidelity’s announcement hinted that the company might manage reserves for stablecoins issued by other firms, which could position it as the behind-the-scenes infrastructure for the industry.

As the industry waits for the outcome of future legislation, such as the Clarity Act, the success of FIDD will likely depend on whether Fidelity can transfer its trillions of dollars in managed assets to this new digital platform. The company already has extensive knowledge of managing reserves, and a large customer base gives it a competitive edge.

Also Read: USDC Stablecoin Is Not a Rival to Visa and Mastercard: Circle CEO at Davos

In a market that is ‘now or never,’ Ethereum (ETH) investors are doing something unexpected. They are waiting. As of today, the Ethereum validator entry queue has reached 3.53 million ETH, creating a 61-day bottleneck that is in contrast to the exit queue of under 40 ETH. This huge imbalance indicates a surge in institutional and retail demand to lock up capital, even as staking yields have compressed to a low of 2.83%.

By choosing a two-month waiting period over immediate liquidity, investors appear to be signaling a shift in Ethereum’s market role. ETH is increasingly being viewed as a long-term investment rather than just a speculative asset for short-term trading. The desire for stability is outweighing the demand for high immediate returns.

Surge in demand despite low yields

The entry queue has risen sharply over the last 30 days, even with a limit of 256 ETH per epoch in place to control validator movement. Current data shows that 30.02% of the total ETH supply, roughly 36.4 million tokens, is now staked. This represents over $118 billion and sets a new record for the network.

This strong commitment remains steady, even though the staking APR has reached all-time lows. It shows that investors are prioritizing the network’s security and their long-term positions rather than short-term returns.

Evolution of ETH

In the past, staking offered higher yields of almost 6% and shorter entry times. However, as the network has developed, institutional investors and major exchange-traded product issuers have become the main drivers of this growth. 

For example, companies like BitMine have increased their assets, now owning over 4.2 million ETH tokens. The proposed Grayscale Ethereum Staking ETF has also helped bring “native yield” and attention into traditional financial systems. This change follows important technical upgrades, such as the Fusaka upgrade.

Introduction of DVT

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has proposed integrating native Distributed Validator Technology (DVT) directly into the protocol to support network security and decentralization. This proposal aims to simplify the current complexities of DVT, allowing stakers to split a single validator across multiple independent nodes to eliminate single points of failure and reduce slashing risks. 

For the millions of ETH currently waiting in the entry queue, such an upgrade could provide a more resilient infrastructure, making it safer for the growing wave of institutions and stakers to lock up their capital long-term.

Impact on market dynamics

At the time of writing, Ethereum is trading at $3,003, reflecting a gain of 1.31% over 24 hours. The total market capitalization stands at approximately $363.5 billion. The circulating supply currently is 120.69 million ETH, accounting for 100% of the current total supply. The current queue situation has major effects on Ethereum’s market dynamics:

• Lower Sell Pressure: A nearly empty exit queue shows that current stakers are not selling their holdings immediately. This contrasts with earlier periods of congestion and demonstrates strong confidence in the asset’s future value.

• Demand Over Yield: Investors’ readiness to wait almost two months for a 2.8% return confirms that Ethereum staking is increasingly seen as a safe option. 

• Supply Impact: With nearly one-third of the total supply locked up, the amount of liquid ETH available on exchanges continues to shrink. This could increase the effect of any future demand spikes on market prices.

Ethereum stakers are willing to wait almost two months for a 2.8% yield as the network builds a native yield system accepted by global capital markets. While Ethereum’s price has remained sensitive to wider market sentiment and leverage, the underlying on-chain data shows a strong and growing ecosystem where long-term capital is opting to stay locked in the consensus layer rather than seeking to exit.

Also Read: Vitalik Calls for “Garbage Collection” to Prevent Ethereum Bloat

The Tron network is experiencing a surge in active users, reaching 4.59 million on Tuesday, i.e., a 36% increase from the previous month. As the network continues to dominate stablecoin settlement, its token TRX fails to show any significant movement in the market.

Yet as count rises, the TRON (TRX) token price remains largely unmoved. At the time of writing TRX is trading at $0.2947, reflecting a decline of 0.42% over 24 hours. The total market capitalization stands at $27.91 billion and the circulating supply currently is 84.71 billion TRX.

For investors, the divergence is becoming impossible to ignore: Tron adoption is accelerating, but the token is failing to capture it.

Stablecoin dominance drives activity–not TRX demand

Meanwhile, the growth in active accounts is mainly due to Tron’s strong position in the stablecoin market and its focus on real-world use. By prioritizing low fees and speed instead of speculative hype, the network has attracted a steady user base. This trend is expected to keep going as the network adds more features for high-volume financial services.

The main reason for this user increase is Tron hosting over $82 billion UDT in supply. This accounts for more than 98% of the stablecoin volume on the network, making Tron a key settlement layer for USDT. The network’s integration with the Base network in December 2025 improved its cross-chain capabilities. This allows the TRX token to connect with Coinbase’s Layer 2 ecosystem.

Price Analysis: high usage, low value capture

The latest 4-hour TRX/USDT chart shows that token is continuing to compress inside a descending wedge. This indicates that TRX is experiencing selling pressure despite stable network fundame.

At the time of writing TRX is trading near $0.2928, having failed multiple times to reclaim the $0.30–$0.31 resistance zone since January 24.  Each bounce has been met with lower highs, while support has gradually shifted down toward the $0.29 area, confirming a short-term downtrend.

Volume has also declined steadily during this compression phase, indicating waning speculative participation even as on-chain usage rises. Moreover, onchain data shows no corresponding increase in spot accumulation.

Momentum indicators remain weak. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is at 36.3, below the neutral 50 level and approaching oversold territory, signaling that bearish momentum still dominates. 

Most fees on Tron are paid via bandwidth and energy credits, not through direct TRX spending, which limits fee-driven buy pressure even as daily transactions exceed 10 million.

AI and technical roadmap

The overall impact of this user growth is shown in the network’s revenue, which has recently surpassed that of other major blockchains. The 2026 roadmap includes the Java-tron v4.8.1 upgrade to improve EVM compatibility and a project focused on integrating artificial intelligence into DeFi and NFTs. These upgrades aim to attract more developers and boost on-chain use.

Also Read: River Token Jumps Nearly 2000% in January: Will the Rally Hold?

Digital asset firm Tether launched USA₮ today, a stablecoin regulated by the federal government and designed for the U.S. market. Issued through Anchorage Digital Bank, N.A., the token is the first to operate under the federal GENIUS Act framework established in July 2025.

As per the official announcement, the stablecoin aims to provide domestic institutions with a dollar-backed asset that meets strict national oversight standards while using established financial infrastructure like Cantor Fitzgerald for reserve custody.

Tether Announces the Launch of USA₮, the Federally Regulated, Dollar-Backed Stablecoin, Made in America 🇺🇲🚀

Read more: https://t.co/rIMQTQ7ipX

— Tether (@tether) January 27, 2026

Market availability and Infrastructure

This launch follows a preliminary design announcement made late last year, signaling a change in how stablecoins connect with the American banking system. USA₮ is now available to U.S. users via major platforms like Bybit, Crypto.com, Kraken, OKX, and Moonpay.

CEO Bo Hines, who previously served as the Executive Director of the White House Crypto Council, joined Tether in September and is leading the project. He said that the project focuses on stability and responsible governance to ensure American leadership in financial innovation.

Shift to federal oversight

While Tether’s global token, USD₮, is the most widely adopted stablecoin around the world, it has often operated outside the direct oversight of U.S. federal regulators. Meanwhile, USA₮ is designed to meet bank-grade compliance requirements and offers on-chain transparency through a nationally chartered bank.

Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, noted that while USD₮ has shown the utility of digital dollars globally for over a decade, USA₮ extends that mission by providing a product specifically tailored to the American regulatory environment.

Global economic implications

The launch has wider implications for the future of the U.S. dollar in a digital-first global economy. As countries compete to shape the future of money, integrating a major stablecoin issuer into a federally recognized framework could set a new standard for trust and transparency.

Anchorage Digital Bank has developed infrastructure to manage large-scale transactions while maintaining integrated risk management, which may encourage more traditional financial entities to adopt blockchain-based settlements.

Legitimizing Tether’s role

USA₮ represents a fundamental rebranding for a company that has spent a decade navigating the American financial system. While Tether has been established with USDT, it did so by operating offshore, often drawing heavy scrutiny from U.S. regulators regarding its reserve transparency. In contrast, USA₮ is a calculated move toward transparency and federal legitimacy.

This approach is further solidified by the focus on “dollar innovation.” This launch places USA₮ under the direct supervision of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). It’s no longer just an offshore claim, but a bank-issued asset subject to the same compliance standards as traditional national banks.

The debut of USA₮ represents Tether’s effort to shift from being a global industry participant to a key player in the domestic regulated financial system. Although USA₮ is not legal tender and is not issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its compliance with the GENIUS Act serves as a foundation for the next generation of American commerce.

Also Read: Tether To Fund INHOPE For Fight Against Online Child Abuse

Bitmine Immersion Technologies Inc. (NYSE: BMNR), an Ethereum treasury firm, announced on Monday that it has reached 4.243 million Ethereum tokens. The accumulation gives Bitmine control over 3.52% of Ethereum’s total circulating supply, which is 120.7 million tokens. 

This growth resulted from aggressive market purchases, including over 40,000 ETH bought in the last week, along with investments in new technology companies. 

Currently, the company holds combined crypto and cash treasury to $12.8 billion, according to a company disclosure on Monday.

🧵
BitMine provided its latest holdings update for January 26th, 2026:

$12.8 billion in total crypto + "moonshots":
– 4,243,338 ETH at $2,839 (@coinbase)
– 193 Bitcoin (BTC)
– $200 mllion stake in Beast Industries @MrBeast
– $19 million stake in Eightco Holdings (NASDAQ: $ORBS)…

— Bitmine (NYSE-BMNR) $ETH (@BitMNR) January 26, 2026

Treasury asset breakdown

Bitmine’s treasury consists of 4,243,338 ETH valued at $2,839 per token and 193 Bitcoin. In addition to its direct token holdings, the firm reported $682 million in cash and $200 million in high-risk investments, with a recent investment in Beast Industries. This financial position makes Bitmine the top Ethereum treasury and the second largest corporate crypto treasury globally, following Strategy, which has more than 700K Bitcoin.

This rapid accumulation comes after a period of high trading activity for the company’s stock. Bitmine is now the 91st most traded stock in the United States, experiencing an average daily volume of $1.2 billion. 

Recent Ethereum purchases

Bitmine has maintained a consistent and aggressive accumulation strategy throughout January 2026 to reach its current treasury milestones. Earlier in the month, the company added 32,977 ETH to bring its total to 4.14 million tokens, followed by a purchase of 35,000 ETH just two weeks later. 

Institutional support and Davos

The firm benefits from a group of well-known institutional investors, including Cathie Wood from ARK, Founders Fund, and Galaxy Digital. Thomas Lee, Chairman of Bitmine, pointed out that the current market environment shows a change in how Wall Street views digital assets. 

After listening to speeches and media reports from Davos, it was clear to him that Wall Street has accepted crypto and blockchain assets and recognizes the blend of traditional and digital assets, as well as the overlap of crypto and AI, Lee stated.

MAVAN staking revenue model

Bitmine is now focusing on generating revenue through its unique staking solution, the Made in America Validator Network, or MAVAN. Currently, the company has 2,009,267 ETH staked, which represents a commitment of $5.7 billion. 

Once MAVAN is fully operational in early 2026, Bitmine anticipates producing significant recurring revenue. At full scale, the ETH staking fee could reach $374 million each year (using 2.81% CESR), or more than $1 million each day, according to Lee. 

Legislative and Financial integration

The company also highlighted legislative changes, such as the GENIUS Act and the SEC’s Project Crypto, as potential drivers for greater integration of digital assets into the U.S. financial system, similar to the shifts that occurred when the gold standard ended in 1971.

The announcement shows a broader trend of institutional acceptance, as discussed at recent global forums like Davos. Leaders from BlackRock, UBS, and Standard Chartered have recently indicated that tokenization and blockchain integration will be key to the future of banking. 

Current market statistics 

At the time of writing, Ethereum is trading at $2,913.87, reflecting a gain of 4.18% over 24 hours. The total market capitalization stands at $351.68 billion. The circulating supply currently is 120.69 million ETH, accounting for 100% of the current total supply.

Alchemy of 5% goal

As Bitmine strives to achieve its goal of “Alchemy of 5%,” it continues to prioritize the Ethereum network because of its high utility and dependability. Ethereum is currently the most widely used blockchain by Wall Street and has maintained zero downtime since its inception, Lee noted. 

With the upcoming launch of MAVAN and ongoing growth in its treasury, Bitmine is establishing itself as a vital infrastructure player in the changing digital asset economy.

Also Read: Trend Research Adds 9,939 ETH After $30M Loan from Aave

River Token, the main asset of the River ecosystem, peaked at an all-time high of $87.79 on Monday. The decentralized finance (DeFi) project saw an increase of over 2,000% in the past month, from the original base price of $4.00 to the current high. 

This price increase, which has caught the attention of the broader crypto community, was fueled by a substantial investment from TRON DAO, which aims to increase the protocol’s adoption. 

Despite the sharp price surge, River token only has 657 holders currently, reflecting an increase of 8.96% in the past 24 hours from 599 holders.

Current market price

At the time of writing, River is priced at $82.54, following a 17.60% increase over the last 24 hours. The market capitalization stands at $1.5B with a 11.93% incline.

The 24-hour trading volume of $108.23 million and a circulating supply of 19.96 million tokens out of a total 100 million.

Why is River token surging suddenly?

The increase indicates a 21x value increase in thirty days. The initial movement started as a low-volume recovery in late December, but the path changed to a steep rise after the January 22 announcement that River secured $8 million in funding by TRON DAO. 

This investment is expected to improve the integrations within the ecosystem, which will enable River to develop its infrastructure on different chains. CoinMarketCap data suggests that the trading volume associated with this sudden increase has seen record-breaking figures.

Shifting ecosystem fundamentals

Before this breakout in January, River was a relatively quiet player in decentralized networking. The situation shifted when the partnership with TRON DAO was finalized. This investment is expected to improve the integrations within the ecosystem, which will enable River to develop its infrastructure on different chains. 

Analyst warns of a crash 

CoinGlass data and liquidation heatmaps indicate that much of the recent price action is driven by high leverage long positions.

When open interest grows as rapidly as it has for $RIVER, it can create a “long squeeze” situation, where the market overextends itself, leaving the last buyers vulnerable to a sharp price drop if the larger players choose to take profits at the current all-time high.

GM!$river

When futures volume trades 80×+ spot volume,
price is no longer discovered by the market.

It is constructed through leverage,
driven by intentionally deployed volatility
and repeated liquidation cycles.

This kind of move is not organic.
It is engineered.

Best… pic.twitter.com/ie8wXEJFwy

— CoinGlass (@coinglass_com) January 21, 2026

Despite the upward price movement, data from Coinglass suggests that the rally may be reaching a risky phase. 

Future market outlook

The durability of the River Token rally relies on the implementation of the TRON DAO investment. If the developers can turn the $8 million investment into real ecosystem growth and increased total value locked (TVL), the token may find a new support level between $70 and $80. 

However, if network activity fails to match the rising price, a pullback is likely. Investors are currently weighing the fundamental strength of the new partnership against the technical signs of an overheated market.

While the 2,000% gain is supported by a major capital influx and a strong strategic partner, the threat of a Coinglass-predicted trap hangs over the charts. Whether $RIVER can stay above $80 or if it will face a correction due to leverage will be closely watched in the DeFi sector in the upcoming weeks.

Also Read: Dash Price Surges 136% in a Month Amid Market Shift

On January 23, BlackRock, the largest assets manager  filed an S-1 registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to launch the iShares Bitcoin Premium Income ETF (BITP) on Nasdaq. This investment vehicle aims to provide shareholders with consistent monthly income by using a covered call strategy on their Bitcoin holdings. 

To support these operations, Coinbase will serve as the custodian for the fund’s Bitcoin holdings, while The Bank of New York Mellon will manage the cash components. By selling call options on its underlying assets, the fund seeks to offer a lower-risk entry point for investors who value regular income over the highest potential price gains of the digital asset.

Expanding digital asset offerings

The filing expands BlackRock’s range of digital assets, moving beyond the simple price tracking of its previous product, the iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT). The proposed fund will hold both physical Bitcoin and shares of IBIT while actively managing a portfolio of written call options to collect premiums. 

These premiums are intended to be paid out to investors in a monthly income stream, providing a high-yield strategy from an asset class that would otherwise not provide any dividend or interest income.

Solving the asset utility gap

The Bitcoin Premium Income ETF has been launched in response to the success of spot Bitcoin ETFs that launched in early 2024. These initial ETFs were primarily designed to address the custody issue, providing institutional and retail investors with the ability to gain exposure to the price movements of Bitcoin without having to handle the private keys or digital wallets. 

Adapting to shifting markets

However, although these spot ETFs provided a mechanism for capital inflows, the underlying asset was still non-productive in a traditional sense. This is indicative of the changing nature of equity markets, in which covered call funds have become increasingly popular with investors as a means of providing a yield from volatile indices or individual stocks.

If the SEC does approve BITP, it could also have an impact on how Bitcoin is perceived within a diversified investment portfolio. Instead of being perceived solely as a speculative “digital gold” or inflation hedge, Bitcoin would now be marketed as part of an income-generating strategy. 

This could also increase options activity, which in turn could have a long-term effect on the market structure of Bitcoin, potentially reducing extreme price volatility as more liquidity flows into specific strike prices.

Maturity of crypto markets

The attempt by BlackRock to register the iShares Bitcoin Premium Income ETF is an important step in the evolution of the cryptocurrency market. By integrating complex derivatives strategies into a regulated ETF framework, the company is attempting to marry the high growth potential of digital assets with the real-world needs of income-oriented investors. 

As the SEC reviews the S-1 statement, the industry will closely observe whether this “utility” phase of Bitcoin investment gains the same regulatory and market support as the spot products that came before it.

Also Read: iShares Bitcoin ETP Issues 180K New Securities on London Exchange

Strategy Inc., the largest Bitcoin treasury firm, announced today that it has acquired 2,932 additional bitcoin for about $264.1 million. The purchases, made between January 20 and January 25, were mainly funded by the sale of over 1.5 million shares under the company’s stock offering program.

With these purchases, Strategy has now accumulated a total of 712,647 BTC, which represents about 3.4% of the 21 million total supply. At current market prices, the company’s total holdings are worth around $63 billion. The firm reported an average purchase price of $90,061 per token for this batch, which is notably higher than its lifetime average cost of $76,037 per bitcoin.

Strategy has acquired 2,932 BTC for ~$264.1 million at ~$90,061 per bitcoin. As of 1/25/2026, we hodl 712,647 $BTC acquired for ~$54.19 billion at ~$76,037 per bitcoin. $MSTR $STRC https://t.co/RooLfEvniX

— Michael Saylor (@saylor) January 26, 2026

Corporate strategy and Background

Since it first entered the market in August 2020, the company has consistently used capital markets, including equity sales and convertible debt, to buy bitcoin. By moving beyond its original role as a business intelligence software provider, it has turned its balance sheet into a way for institutional investors to gain bitcoin exposure.

The size of the current treasury cost a total of $54.19 billion to acquire. The company now holds more bitcoin than many countries and has outperformed most traditional equity benchmarks since it adopted its digital asset strategy.

Recent Bitcoin acquisitions

Strategy has made four acquisitions totaling over 40,000 BTC in just three weeks. After securing 1,283 Bitcoin in the first week of the year and 13,627 BTC for $1.25 billion in the second week of January, Strategy bought 22,305 BTC for $2.13 billion the following week.

Finally, the company added a further 2,932 BTC for $264.1 million by January 25. Strategy Inc. has maintained its buying momentum even as market prices fluctuate near the $90,000 mark. 

“Unstoppable Orange” and Market influence

Saylor has referred to this strategy as “Unstoppable Orange,” which he uses to position Bitcoin as a form of monetary reserve capital rather than a speculative asset. The most recent chart he posted shows continuous accumulation at rising prices, which further emphasizes that Strategy is aimed at supply capture, not market timing.

Unstoppable Orange. pic.twitter.com/RUyVxhn38b

— Michael Saylor (@saylor) January 25, 2026

With Strategy’s growing influence on market liquidity, its proximity to controlling 3.5% of all Bitcoin that will ever exist also increases its market influence. The coins held by the company are considered to be long-term and illiquid.

Current market and future outlook 

At the time of writing, Bitcoin is trading at $87,599, reflecting a decline of 1.46% over 24 hours. The total market capitalization stands at $1.8 trillion. The circulating supply currently is 19.97 million BTC, accounting for approximately 95% of the 21 million maximum supply.

As Strategy Inc approaches ownership of approximately 3.5% of the total supply of bitcoin, its influence on market liquidity and the dynamics of supply are increasing. The market is closely observing if Strategy can keep up this pace, especially since it still has billions of dollars available in its current stock offering programs.

Also Read: Saylor Predicts US Bank Bitcoin Buying & Custody in First Half of 2026

Jeel, the innovation arm of Riyad Bank, today announced its partnership with Ripple in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ripple will supply enterprise-grade blockchain solutions to the Kingdom’s financial sector. 

Ripple has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), in order to advance the Kingdom’s regional banking sector through the testing of new financial infrastructure in a controlled regulatory environment. 

نعلن في جيل عن شراكتنا مع شركة ريبل لاستكشاف تطبيقات متقدمة تهدف إلى تحسين سرعة وكفاءة المدفوعات.
وتركز هذه الشراكة على دراسة حالات استخدام حفظ الأصول الرقمية، إلى جانب تطوير نماذج أولية ضمن البيئة التنظيمية التجريبية لجيل، دعمًا لمستهدفات #رؤية_السعودية_2030 pic.twitter.com/WzUZrBQPYV

— Jeel (@Jeelmovement) January 26, 2026

Payments as the first target

Saudi Arabia is the hub of key remittance and trade corridors that unite Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Arabian Gulf regions. However, even though digitization has sped up internally, cross-border settlements depend on sluggish and pricey correspondent networks.

The partnership focuses on using Ripple’s digital asset technology to improve the speed and cost-effectiveness of cross-border payment channels. In addition to remittances, the two organizations will work together to develop frameworks for digital asset custody and explore asset tokenization. 

They will ensure that all proofs-of-concept meet operational and regulatory standards. By utilizing Jeel Sandbox, this collaboration will facilitate safe experimenting for scalable financial solutions with which economic objectives in the kingdom can be realized.

George Harrak, CEO of Jeel, said that the partnership uses the Jeel Sandbox to explore new financial infrastructure responsibly. He noted that by combining regulated experimentation with global blockchain expertise, they are laying the groundwork to assess scalable use cases that improve cross-border payments and digital asset capabilities in line with the Kingdom’s digital ambitions.

Regional fintech market 

The development has occurred during a period characterized by increasing interest in the application of blockchain technology in the region. The country has progressed steadily in its Vision 2030 strategy, seeking to find a competitive fintech environment. 

The regional backdrop has seen the country operate on two levels to develop digital assets; there is Riyad Bank’s Jeel, which has focused on modernizing conventional banking systems with the help of Ripple, as well as separate agreements to develop necessary infrastructure, such as the development of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) systems in association with the European exchange WhiteBIT, tokenizing stock market systems, etc.

Future banking system integration

The future implications of this partnership indicate a move toward a fully interoperable and scalable digital financial infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. Ripple’s entry in the evolving fintech market of Saudi could be mirrored by the institutional support available to Riyad Bank that also aims to make the transition to a blockchain-based system. 

Reece Merrick, Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa at Ripple, stated that it is against this progressive backdrop that Ripple has signed an MOU with Jeel to explore integrating secure, efficient blockchain solutions into the national financial system. 

He further stated that they are committed to illustrating the potential of the enterprise-grade digital asset technology provided by Ripple to facilitate considerable efficiencies in domains like international payments, thus supporting the Kingdom’s strategy to develop a top-tier fintech market.

The alliance between Jeel and Ripple represents a major step in the country’s financial services industry. By marrying international fintech innovation with domestic banking knowledge, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is positioning itself to take the lead in the coming revolution in finance.

Also Read: Ripple’s Stablecoin Is Now Live on Binance for Trading

The cryptocurrency market saw nearly $143.3 million in liquidation as Bitcoin (BTC) and other major altcoins lost momentum ahead of the U.S. market opening on Monday. The overall market capitalization has seen a 1.10% increase.

🔥 SHORTS REKT: $143.4M in short liquidations in just 1 hour. pic.twitter.com/SqYic28tOW

— The Crypto Times (@CryptoTimes_io) January 23, 2026

As per CoinMarketCap data, Bitcoin is trading at $90,001 at the time of writing. Bitcoin’s sudden movement led to massive volatility in the altcoin market, with Ethereum (ETH) trading at $2,958, XRP reaching $1.92, while BNB is at $893, and Solana (SOL) at $128.

The price volatility comes as the crypto industry navigates through various key events, such as the impacts of the CoinBase-WhiteHouse legislative rift and the recent short squeeze, raising hopes of bitcoin reaching $100K and altcoin rotation.

1-hour liquidations reach $143.3 million

A few hours ago, crypto markets wiped out over $143.3 million, with ETH alone contributing nearly $4.75 million, followed by BTC at $3.43 million, along with XRP, DOGE, and ADA, as recorded by The Crypto Times snapshot above.

According to the latest data from CoinGlass, Hyperliquid is sitting among the top platforms in market liquidations, contributing $123 million. This shows the perpetual DEX’s increasing popularity among a growing user base, echoing shrinking trust in centralized exchanges. 

Volatility as market closes

This case is unique since the weekly market close on Friday in the U.S. usually brings volatility into cryptocurrencies, which most of the time witness a downtrend. While most of the narratives have cooled down and investors are awaiting the regularity and clarity in the US, the sell-off is likely due to short-term traders rethinking their strategies and exiting the market. 

The market remains highly sensitive to regulatory friction, particularly following the standoff between Coinbase and the White House over the Senate’s crypto market structure bill. While leveraged traders were being wiped out, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong publicly rejected the proposed legislation, citing “bad” provisions, including a de facto ban on tokenized equities and restrictive DeFi surveillance, that he claimed would be worse than the current status quo. 

This “rug pull” on the administration led the White House to threaten a total withdrawal of support for the bill unless a compromise is reached on stablecoin yields, adding a layer of political uncertainty that likely exacerbated the volatility seen in recent hours.

Also Read: Bitcoin Eyes $100K as Crypto Market Triggers Short Squeeze

Grayscale Investments submitted a Form S-1 to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on January 23, seeking approval to launch a spot BNB exchange-traded fund (ETF) on the Nasdaq Stock Market.

As per the official filing, the ETF will allow institutional and retail investors to access the BNB ecosystem under the ticker “GBNB.” The fund’s primary objective is to reflect the value of BNB held by the Trust, less expenses and liabilities, as it aims to offer investors regulated exposure to the BNB Smart Chain ecosystem.

The filing names The Bank of New York Mellon as both the Administrator and Transfer Agent, while Coinbase Custody Trust Company, LLC will serve as the Custodian for the Trust’s BNB holdings.

The “Staking Condition”

The proposed ETF, to be managed by Grayscale Investments Sponsors, LLC, will use a specialized arbitrage mechanism. This mechanism allows authorized participants to create or redeem shares in large blocks with either BNB or cash.

Unlike typical spot ETFs, this fund aims to improve investor value by including “Staking Consideration.” This feature enables the fund to earn network rewards through the BNB Smart Chain’s validation process. 

A key element is that the “Staking Condition” is a regulatory mandate that is currently keeping the trust from accumulating revenue from the networks. Grayscale has created the GBNB ETF in a “staking ready” format so that they have the mechanics in place to stake the assets but are awaiting blanket approval from the SEC to actually begin the practice. They have essentially created a placeholder to launch in a standard capacity while having the potential to pivot the ETF into a revenue-generating vehicle in an immediate fashion.

This is a direct reference to the existing debate surrounding the classification of staked possessions as “investment contracts.” Grayscale is providing investors with a “two-tiered product,” as their initial exposure to the price changes of BNB is dependent upon the satisfaction of a certain criterion that their staking shall benefit from rewards which are then included in the NAV, essentially allowing the ETF to “outperform the price of the cryptocurrency as the ‘dividends’ are paid by the network.”

Regulatory challenges and yield generation

By integrating yield-generation, Grayscale is pressing regulators to clarify the legal distinction between a commodity and a security while introducing a “total return” investment product in the spot ETF category.

The move follows years of Grayscale serving as a key link between traditional finance and the digital asset market. The firm previously gained recognition through its decision to transform its trusts based on Bitcoin and Ether into spot ETFs.

Shift in market sentiment 

While Bitcoin and Ethereum remain popular assets for adoption by institutions, the inclusion of BNB, currently ranked as the fourth-largest asset by market capitalization, signals an evolving sentiment in the asset class as the market is trying to adapt to an increase in blockchain protocols considered for inclusion by the SEC regulations.

The implication of these proceedings is majorly focused on the nature of the laws surrounding staking and the nature of these so-called “exchange-linked” assets. If approved, GBNB could create a precedent for a new class of financial products that provide both capital appreciation and dividend-like yields from blockchain participation. It also changes the perception of the BNB token from a centralized exchange discount tool to an independent institutional asset class.

Future market implications 

As the SEC starts its review process, the industry will closely observe how the commission deals with the unique aspects of the BNB Smart Chain and the proposed staking mechanism. The filing shows Grayscale’s calculated bet that the regulatory environment has developed enough to support assets beyond the industry’s two largest pioneers.

If the registration statement is approved, it would transition BNB from a platform-specific utility to a mainstream investment vehicle available to anyone in the traditional financial system.

Also Read: Bitwise Launches BPRO: The First Actively Managed ETF Combining BTC & Gold

On Friday, high-profile crypto whale Jeffrey Huang, widely known as Machi Big Brother, narrowly avoided liquidation on his long bets placed on the Hyperliquid Decentralized Exchange (DEX). As Ethereum (ETH) prices dipped below $2,900, Huang was forced to inject 250,000 USDC in fresh collateral to stabilize his leveraged position.

The current state of his holdings represents his high-conviction play, valued at $12.94 million, consisting of 4,450 ETH, as mentioned by Lookonchain.

As $ETH just dropped below $2,900, Machi(@machibigbrother) trimmed part of his $ETH long to avoid liquidation.

He then deposited another 250K $USDC into Hyperliquid to continue adding to his $ETH long.

Current Position: 4,450 $ETH($12.94M)
Liquidation Price: $2,841.97… pic.twitter.com/ikJb5tGFfh

— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) January 23, 2026

On-chain data from Hypurrscan shows that he is left with a liquidation price of approximately $2,841.97. Although he is able to stay in the game, as the deposit provides a temporary buffer, he is still left with very little margin of roughly 2.8% from the current market prices. 

At the time of writing, Ethereum is trading at $2,993.71, showing a 1.21% increase over the last 24 hours. The market capitalization stands at $361.32 billion and a 24-hour trading volume of $21.78 billion, which has decreased by 20.72%. The circulating supply is 120.69 million ETH, equal to the current total supply, with an infinite maximum supply.

Double-down strategy

This is not the first time Huang has gone through these defense maneuvers on a large scale. His profile hints toward employing a so-called “double-down” strategy, where he makes major movements to inject huge amounts of capital to stop his positions from being liquidated. 

This recurring pattern of partial liquidations and subsequent capital injections is seen in a previous incident in November 2025, when Jeffrey Huang lost over $15 million before doubling down on his Ethereum long.

Market and exchange implications

Although the 250,000 USDC deposit provides a temporary safety net, it also increases the capital at risk. If Ethereum fails to stabilize above the $2,841.97 liquidation level, Huang risks a potential catastrophic loss of capital many times over what he started with, which in turn might have further implications in terms of Hyperliquid exchange sell pressure from this trader’s position in this exchange itself.

Despite this, Machi Big Brother’s actions show a belief in the long-term worth of Ethereum, despite the short-term risks associated with the high level of leverage. 

Also Read: Standard Chartered Bets on Ethereum in 2026

The Russian Prosecutor General’s Office has officially blacklisted WhiteBit, a major European-based crypto exchange, along with its affiliate W Group, by branding them “undesirable” organizations.

According to Russian authorities, the crackdown stems from a dual-pronged accusation that the platform served as a backdoor for “gray schemes” to siphon capital out of the country while simultaneously acting as a financial engine for the Ukrainian military. By cutting off WhiteBit, Russia is effectively trying to plug a digital leak in its wartime economy.

Criminalization of exchange interaction

By labeling the WhiteBit exchange in this manner, the Russian government has officially made any further interaction with the exchange illegal for entities within its borders. In an official statement, the Prosecutor General’s Office claimed that “since the first days of the special military operation, the crypto exchange has actively supported the Ukrainian Armed Forces, implementing various programs in collaboration with Kyiv regime institutions.”

Russian investigators further claim that the platform was used by “cryptocurrency exchanges and exchangers to conduct various transactions, including organizing “gray” schemes for withdrawing funds from Russia, as well as other illegal activities.”

The designation extends beyond primary exchange to encompass the entire structure of its affiliated and subsidiary organizations that together make up the W Group.

$11 million donation to Ukraine

The Prosecutor General’s Office has stated that WhiteBit made a financial contribution of $11 million in 2022 to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the claim, $900,000 of the donation was dedicated to the procurement of a group of drone systems. 

Authorities also allege that the exchange offered technical assistance to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and supported the technical implementation of the United24 fundraising platform. United24, designed by the President of Ukraine, aims to facilitate the collection of cryptocurrency donations.

The report further claimed that WhiteBit’s leadership participates in the conduct of some charity auctions globally. These are intended to support groups that have been declared terrorist organizations by the Russian government.

Crypto neutrality under threat

This move highlights how geopolitical affairs are affecting the digital asset world. Cryptocurrency was meant to act as a politically neutral financial tool, but this ban shows how digital assets and exchanges are increasingly becoming subject to categories of ‘us vs. them.’ The move by Russia is an example of how digital assets and exchange platforms are no longer exempt from geopolitical tensions.

Russia is not the first one to take such a step. Ukraine has previously sanctioned 60 crypto firms and 73 individuals allegedly aiding the Russian military-industrial complex. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy approved these measures to block billions in digital asset transactions used to bypass international financial restrictions.

If this goes on, the implications of this move going forward are the continued division of the crypto market, where platforms may have to opt to support either side or face exclusion of their services within certain jurisdictions. 

Also Read: Thailand’s SEC Gears Up for Major Regulatory Updates in 2026

Crypto influencer Orangie is facing a community-led lawsuit after a dormant wallet allegedly linked to him netted a $1.13 million profit by front-running a major announcement. On Thursday, the wallet executed a huge purchase of $DONT tokens just moments before the Nasdaq-listed firm DeFi Dev Corp publicly unveiled the token.

The trade, which reportedly made a 276x return within three hours, has been characterized by critics as a “pump-and-dump” scheme that utilized retail investors for liquidity.

The controversy escalated hours after the trade, when community researchers @spacexbt and @ans4tsu claimed to have successfully deanonymized the wallet. According to their findings, the address belongs to Orangie.

me and @ans4tsu tracked the wallet down and it does belong to Orangie.
After all this months of this fat donut scamming his community, we contacted a law firm today and filed a lawsuit against him.

— space Ξ (@spacexbt) January 22, 2026

The researchers allege that this is not an isolated incident but rather the latest in a pattern of behavior. In a public statement, @spacexbt said they “tracked the wallet down and it does belong to Orangie” and claimed the influencer had been “scamming his community” for months. 

High-stakes timing and rapid returns

Meanwhile, Blockchain analytics account Lookonchain flagged a suspicious series of transactions involving wallet address z5m3Ja. This wallet had shown no activity for three months before suddenly spending $4.1K to acquire 29.08 billion $DONT tokens. The purchase occurred just before DeFi Dev Corp publicly announced the token.

As the price surged following the news, the wallet began offloading its position. The holder has already sold 10.6 billion $DONT for approximately $182K while maintaining a remaining balance of 18.5 billion tokens, currently valued at $955K. The precision of the entry and exit leads to characterizing the event as a textbook “pump-and-dump” scheme, where an insider utilizes private information to gain at the expense of retail liquidity.

Market implications and outlook

The $DONT incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding transparency and ethics in the decentralized finance space. While the blockchain provides a public ledger that allows for the tracking of these trades, the lack of formal gatekeepers often leaves investors vulnerable to those with early access to information.

The outcome of the lawsuit against Orangie could set a precedent for how internet personalities are held accountable for their on-chain activities. Additionally, the regulatory response to DeFi Dev Corp’s role in this event will be closely watched by other public companies looking to integrate digital assets into their business models.

Also Read: Drake Named in Lawsuit Tied to Crypto Casino Stake

iShares Digital Assets AG announced the issuance of 180,000 new securities for its iShares Bitcoin ETP on January 22. The new units are set to start trading on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange on January 23, responding to ongoing investor interest in regulated cryptoasset exposure. 

As per the official release, the issuance took place under the company’s Secured Cryptoasset Linked Securities Programme. This structure supports product liquidity while funding general business activities and obligations tied to the underlying assets.

Updated series total figures

This issuance, known as Tranche Number 60, will lift the figure for the overall securities covered to 93,179,328, from a previous 92,999,328. These securities are structured as secured, limited recourse debt obligations. Each security has an initial entitlement of 0.0001 bitcoin.

The ETP’s operational framework involves several key financial institutions. Flow Traders B.V., Jane Street Financial Limited, and Virtu Financial Ireland Limited are authorized participants. Coinbase Luxembourg S.A. serves as the custodian for the underlying bitcoin holdings. The Bank of New York Mellon acts as both the paying agent and the account bank.

Regulatory access for retail investors

This issuance comes after a major regulatory change in the UK. These securities have, for the first time, been made available to UK retail investors since October 2025, when the Conduct of Business (Cryptoasset Products) Instrument 2025 came into effect. 

The recent expansion of the iShares Bitcoin ETP follows the groundwork laid in May 2024, when the London Stock Exchange first opened its doors to cryptoasset exchange-traded products. This tranche reflects the market’s transition toward more liquidity and broader investor participation.

Fee structure and waivers

The iShares Bitcoin ETP series had previously had a TER of 0.25% per annum. Presently, a partial TER waiver is in place, which reduces it to 0.15% until December 31, as the issuer tries to capture market share in the developing market.

The growth of the series reflects the ability of the issuer to expand further, given that it follows the base prospectus that allows a total maximum issue size of 50 billion securities. The increase in circulating units gives investors more entry points. 

Entitlement and primary market

The issuer points out that the cryptoasset entitlement will continue to decrease daily based on the applicable portion of the TER for that day. Future market activity will rely on the ongoing participation of authorized participants who can subscribe for new securities in the primary market by using either physical bitcoin units or cash payments.

Adding 180,000 securities to the iShares Bitcoin ETP series represents a steady continuation of BlackRock’s digital asset strategy in Europe. These new tranches are being issued through the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market to provide a level of transparency.

While the product provides a simpler way to gain bitcoin exposure, the issuer issues a high-risk investment warning. It states that the securities are not capital protected, and there is no minimum redemption amount. Investors should be aware that they could lose all or part of their invested capital.

Also Read: 21Shares Launches Bitcoin-Gold ETP on London Stock Exchange

The Dutch parliament took a step this week toward adopting a new tax system by 2028. Under the proposal, cryptocurrency investors in the Netherlands would pay annual taxes on both realized and unrealized capital gains.

On Monday, the Tweede Kamer, the lower house of the Dutch parliament, discussed a proposal to change the Box 3 asset tax. This change is intended to address an annual treasury shortfall of about €2.3 billion due to previous court losses.

Parliamentary majority support

Despite hesitance among some politicians, most parliament members, including those from the VVD, PVV, CDA, JA21, BBB, and GroenLinks-PvdA, expressed support for the proposal. They found alternative plans unworkable within the needed timeframe.

The proposed legislation focuses on investors in stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies. These investors could face taxation on the growth of their portfolios without having sold any of their assets for cash.

The unrealized gains controversy

This “unrealized gains” tax is the most controversial part of the bill. The caretaker government has acknowledged that taxing gains only when cash is received would be more ideal, but it is not currently feasible by the 2028 deadline.

While left-leaning parties like GroenLinks-PvdA back the idea of taxing profits that haven’t been cashed out to avoid budget deficits, they want even higher taxes on those with substantial capital gains.

Box 3 legal history

This legislative change comes after years of legal disputes regarding the original Box 3 system. Earlier court decisions ruled that the Dutch government wrongly taxed citizens based on “fictitious returns.” This method was based on a fixed rate of profit for assets, as opposed to taxing based on real earnings.

The new proposal aims to improve on this by basing taxation on real gains. However, with the inclusion of unrealized gains for liquid assets like crypto, some MPs, such as Peter Grinwis of the ChristenUnie party, warn of a taxation system as complicated as before, if not more so. 

Parliament faces deadline pressure

London-based accounting firm EY notes this proposal is seen as a necessary step toward the government’s goal of implementing a full capital gains tax. The Dutch Tax Authority, Belastingdienst, expects to need at least 900 more employees to handle the administrative workload of this new system.

Moreover, the parliament is facing heavy pressure to pass the bill by mid-March. Any delay could threaten the 2028 launch and result in a multi-billion euro deficit in the national budget.

EY also highlighted that while crypto and liquid assets face annual taxes on all value changes, real estate and start-up shares will only be taxed upon sale. Under the proposal, property owners may be able to deduct costs while accounting for a deemed rental value for personal use.

Asset class disparities

The proposed reform could create a gap between all assets. Investors in crypto assets and stocks would face tax charges on gains, while investors in real property may take advantage of what is being introduced, allowing them to offset expenses from which tax is levied on the income, as well as when selling the property.

However, owners of second homes will incur an extra tax for their personal use of these properties. The Netherlands is likely to implement one of the most stringent tax policies on digital assets in Europe, prioritizing government stability over investor preferences. 

Although many political parties have been raising doubts by asking over 130 serious questions during the discussion, the necessity to pay the huge cost to bridge the €2.3 billion budget deficit is inevitable for the parliament to do so. Moreover, preparing for a tougher 2028 process is necessary for investors, as the deadline is drawing near.

Also Read: Thailand’s SEC Gears Up for Major Regulatory Updates in 2026

Tether, the issuer of USDT, announced today that it is expanding its financial and operational collaboration with the International Association of Internet Hotlines (INHOPE). The initiative aims to support global efforts against online child sexual abuse material (CSAM). As a diamond-level collaborator, Tether will provide long-term funding and expertise to support INHOPE’s network of 57 hotlines across 52 countries.

As per the official release, the firms will work to improve cross-border cooperation and speed up the removal of illegal content. The initiative is based on a shared responsibility to protect children online and ensure that reporting systems stay strong against changing digital threats.

Tether Expands Support for INHOPE’s Global Work to Combat Online Child Sexual Abuse Material
Learn more: https://t.co/NMsmPb1VB1

— Tether (@tether) January 22, 2026

Tether’s operational support

With this expanded partnership, Tether will join expert forums and international meetings with law enforcement and technology leaders to identify new risks. The financial support is designed to help INHOPE move beyond short-term crisis management by investing in lasting systems for real-time reporting and coordinated removal of harmful material.

Samantha Woolfe, INHOPE’s Executive Director, commented on the initiative, stating, “Tether’s diamond-level commitment represents a long-term investment in the global response infrastructure that the INHOPE network has built over the past 26 years.”

Previous collaborations

Tether has previously collaborated with authorities worldwide to address legal requests and assist in the investigation of serious offenses. By formalizing its relationship with INHOPE, the company is connecting its technical resources with a network that has spent over two decades coordinating with policymakers and civil organizations to improve accountability in the digital space.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino said the problem of child sexual abuse material cannot be addressed in isolation and needs continuous support.

He added, “It requires durable systems, trusted coordination across borders, and sustained support for the people doing this work every day. Our engagement with INHOPE reflects a responsibility to contribute to the infrastructure that enables faster response, better cooperation, and real protection for children online, not just in moments of crisis, but over the long term.”

Firms supporting the cause 

Tether is not the only player in the fintech and digital asset space working toward this mission. Both Block Inc. and Binance have formed partnerships with INHOPE to fight the spread of online child sexual abuse material. 

These partnerships show that the industry is beginning to recognize that protecting vulnerable populations is a shared responsibility. More firms and new projects in the fintech and crypto sectors need to follow this example.

Future industry implications

Tether’s support for INHOPE is expected to change how digital asset companies approach corporate responsibility and online safety. This is as global rates of CSAM are rising, while INHOPE is going to receive a boost in funds from Tether, which will allow them to plan for future hotlines while building stronger international standards in removing content. 

The collaboration may also contribute to quicker response times and better protection for victims as technology advances and crosses international boundaries. This move shows a broader trend where major players in the digital asset ecosystem are becoming more integrated into global regulatory and safety frameworks to fight criminal behavior.

Also Read: Tether and Bitqik to Launch Bitcoin, Stablecoin Education in Laos

During the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21, U.S. President Donald Trump said he hopes to sign new legislation for cryptocurrencies “very soon,” aiming to establish the United States as the global hub for digital assets.

During his address, Trump said his administration is collaborating with Congress on laws for Bitcoin and other tokens. He described the effort as necessary to prevent competitors like China from dominating the crypto industry.

Broader economic agenda

Trump framed the proposed legislation as part of his broader economic agenda, which he claims has already led to historic growth through deregulation and tax cuts during the first year of his second term.

He emphasized that support for the crypto industry stems from both domestic financial goals and global competition. Trump mentioned that to boost innovation, savings, and financing, he is working to ensure America remains the capital of cryptocurrency.

Geopolitical motivation for crypto push

Trump noted that he originally saw this move as politically beneficial. However, the threat from abroad has become the main reason for his actions. 

He explained that he had two reasons for this shift, stating that he received major political backing. More importantly, he mentioned that China also wanted that market. According to Trump, the U.S. must secure its lead now because once competitors gain a stronghold, it will be difficult to reclaim it.

Shift in policy after 2024

The recent call for crypto-friendly laws marks a change from the previous administration’s more cautious stance. Trump claimed that the Biden administration was opposed to it until just before the 2024 election, when they realized many voters were angry over crypto issues. 

He highlighted that his administration already took steps toward this goal, including signing the “landmark Genius Act” into law last year. Trump added that Congress is now working hard on crypto market structure laws, specifically mentioning Bitcoin, which he hopes to sign very soon.

Recent achievements and confidence 

Integrating cryptocurrency into the U.S. financial system is part of a broader strategy to create new paths for Americans to achieve financial freedom. Trump linked these efforts to his administration’s success in reducing inflation and boosting domestic investment, claiming that since his inauguration, the U.S. has secured commitments for a record-breaking $18 trillion in new investment.

Trump felt confident that his administration, with people like Scott Bessent and Howard Lutnick, could tackle these issues in order to keep the American economy at the forefront of the world of innovation. He concluded with a statement that “we’re back, bigger, stronger, and better than ever.”

Also Read: Trump’s Crypto Advisor Pushes Swift Passage of Market Structure Bill

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong engaged in a public debate with François Villeroy de Galhau, the Governor of France’s Central Bank, over Bitcoin’s role in the global financial system. Brian called the asset a sovereign, neutral alternative to state-controlled money.

The exchange took place during a panel discussion on the digital economy. Armstrong argued for the need for decentralized assets, while the governor defended the role of the state. The discussion showed a growing divide between the “Bitcoin standard” vision of Silicon Valley and the European banking establishment’s dedication to monetary sovereignty.

JUST IN: @brian_armstrong challenges France central bank governor on Bitcoin at World Economic Forum in Davos 🔥

François Villeroy de Galhau says "I trust more independent central banks with a democratic mandate than private issuers of Bitcoin".

Armstrong hits back: "Bitcoin… pic.twitter.com/pZXXveSVGe

— Gareth Jenkinson (@gazza_jenks) January 21, 2026

The “Bitcoin standard” debate

The conversation quickly shifted toward the structure of global money. Armstrong suggested that the world is gradually moving toward a system where decentralized protocols could rival or even replace traditional fiat structures. He argued that the era of a “Bitcoin standard” is becoming a reality.

In response, Villeroy de Galhau stressed that monetary policy is a key aspect of national sovereignty that should remain under the control of central banks. He said money is not just a tool for exchange but a public good that needs stability and oversight from a centralized authority to operate within a democratic setting.

Bitcoin as a check and balance

Armstrong presented a view of Bitcoin that goes beyond simple speculation, describing it as an important “check and balance” on government spending. He stated that the decentralized currency provides citizens with an exit option in countries with irresponsible fiscal policies.

He added that during high inflation or a loss of trust in fiat currencies, Bitcoin serves as a modern store of value. He remarked, “It’s like digital gold, but it’s even better because it’s a global protocol that no one can change.” In Armstrong’s view, the decentralized nature of the blockchain ensures that the money supply is beyond the influence of political decisions and that the transparency and predictability of central banks are surpassed.

The central bank’s stance

Villeroy de Galhau countered by supporting his argument with the ideology of the social contract. He said that trust in money cannot be generated by an algorithm; it has to be earned through democracy. The governor argued that money functions as a public good directly connected to state sovereignty and the protection of its citizens.

He said, “Money is a public good that must be managed by an independent central bank with a democratic mandate.” From his view, the volatility of private issuers and decentralized systems threatens economic stability. He maintained that the legitimacy of a currency relies on the accountability of its managers, a quality he sees as missing in the crypto world.

An ongoing debate 

This debate is part of a long-standing tension between the crypto industry and European regulators. France has been working under the MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) regulation framework via AMF, aiming to bring the industry under strict oversight.

While France has attempted to position itself as a hub for blockchain innovation, its central bank has consistently expressed skepticism about “private” money. 

Meanwhile, Coinbase has been expanding its influence in Europe, often using Davos as a platform to advocate for a more lenient regulatory environment. The debate highlights a shift from technical discussions about blockchain toward broader questions about the state’s role.

Also Read: Senate Crypto Bill Faces Setback as Yield Debate Continues

The Vietnamese State Securities Commission (SSC) officially started accepting license applications for organizing cryptocurrency trading markets on January 20. This step, taken under the Ministry of Finance’s new rules, seeks to make the digital asset sector official by moving from a grey market to a regulated pilot program.

Following Decision No. 96/QD-BTC, the regulator is now reviewing requests for granting, adjusting, and revoking licenses for entities wanting to run legal trading platforms. The new regulatory framework sets high barriers for potential market operators.

Strict capital requirements

As stated in Government Resolution No. 05/2025/NQ-CP, any organization looking to provide these services must be a Vietnamese enterprise with a minimum paid capital of 10,000 billion VND, fully contributed in Vietnamese Dong. The shareholder structure is also tightly defined, requiring at least 65% of the capital to be owned by organizations.

Within that share, over 35% must come from at least two institutional investors, such as commercial banks, securities firms, fund managers, insurance companies, or tech firms. Additionally, the rules prevent any individual or entity from holding stakes in more than one licensed cryptocurrency service provider.

Professional staffing standards

The requirements for personnel and infrastructure are also strict. The General Director must have at least two years of experience in traditional finance sectors, including banking or insurance.

The Chief Technology Officer needs a minimum of five years of experience in information technology. Operations must include at least ten tech staff members with cybersecurity certifications and another ten personnel holding professional securities certifications.

Vietnam’s approach to crypto market

The licensing phase follows several years of preparation by private companies. Since 2022, major financial entities in Vietnam have been preparing for this change.

SSI Securities established its digital technology unit, SSI Digital, which has formed partnerships with Tether, U2U Network, and Amazon Web Services. Similarly, VIX Securities has invested in its own exchange, VIXEX, while banks such as MB and Techcombank have formed technical partnerships and incorporated cryptocurrency tracking capabilities into their existing infrastructure.

This regulation causes the previously unregulated space to become a structured pilot program administered by the Ministry of Finance.

Future market implications 

The framework signals a future where digital assets are part of the broader Vietnamese financial system under strict state oversight. By requiring capital and the involvement of established financial institutions, the government seems to prioritize market stability and investor protection over quick, decentralized growth.

As the SSC starts reviewing the first applications, the outcome of this pilot may determine whether Vietnam becomes a regional hub for regulated digital finance or continues to limit broader retail adoption.

Also Read: Moldova Plans to Regulate Crypto Trading With First Law in 2026

A Solana-based wallet has turned a $285 investment into more than $627,000 in less than 24 hours after trading the newly launched ZReaL token. The wallet achieved an estimated 2,200x return through trading, raising concerns of an alleged insider job. 

The gains came as the ZReaL token saw a sharp price increase, allowing the wallet holder to sell their positions and secure life-changing profits while the broader market observed the liquidity movement in real-time.

An insider wallet, AG2GXk, turned $285 into $627K on $ZReaL — a 2,200× return.

Wallet AG2GXk spent only $285 to buy 66.3M $ZReaL, then sold 19.98M $ZReaL for $210K across four wallets, and still holds 46.3M $ZReaL($417K).https://t.co/P755GHZMXzhttps://t.co/xPj98WHrET… pic.twitter.com/dQtXBfwa4v

— Lookonchain (@lookonchain) January 19, 2026

Tracking wallet movements

The transaction history shows that the user initially spent about 2.13 SOL to purchase a large amount of ZReaL shortly after its launch. According to Solscan data, the main wallet AG2GXk..hqk acted as a central hub, transferring parts of the holdings to secondary addresses like E3YwA..8UHFw and 5em8..1nXf.

These sub-wallets then began selling the tokens into the Raydium liquidity pool as the price peaked. One specific wallet, ZFHvjG..5xAF, still holds over 17 million ZReaL tokens, worth about $168,000 at the time of writing. This suggests the total profit could increase even more if the remaining liquidity stays stable.

Rising insider activity

The trade comes amid growing attention on insider activity. In recent months, the rise of meme coin launchpads and decentralized exchanges has made it easier for developers and early insiders to buy before the general public gets a chance.

Historically, such huge returns rarely come from luck. They usually involve people with advanced knowledge of the token’s marketing plan or technical deployment. Analysts often refer to buyers who invest in the same moment a pool is created, very frequently using automated bots to front-run other retail investors as insider wallets.

Impact for retail

For the Solana network, these stories inspire high trading volume and attract new users looking to strike it rich with the next big investment. However, for regular retail investors, these incidents serve as a warning.

When one entity controls a large portion of the circulating supply and can withdraw hundreds of thousands of dollars in just hours, it often leaves latecomers with devalued assets. Consequently, regulatory bodies have started paying close attention to DeFi platforms to determine if this form of arranged trades constitutes market manipulation.

Also Read: Trader Turns $85 into $115K on Chinese Meme Coin: Luck or Insider?

The Acurast Association is set to launch its mainnet and introduce its native token, ACU, through a Token Generation Event (TGE) and an airdrop on Tuesday.

This switch from the canary testnet to a live decentralized compute network comes after funding rounds totaling more than $15 million. The project aims to create a serverless, decentralized cloud infrastructure by using the processing power of regular smartphones.

Mainnet is near and the network is opening up on Tuesday, January 20.

Real compute, real incentives, real usage.

The Acurast TGE page is now live, bringing all the latest updates and essential TGE details together in one place.https://t.co/0buAJoDqZQ pic.twitter.com/8VDzqmXWkv

— Acurast (@Acurast) January 18, 2026

Mainnet launch and token generation

The network transition starts on Tuesday with the official release of the ACU token and the opening of the Acurast Mainnet. Beginning at 10:00 UTC, the token will be available for trading on platforms like Binance Alpha, paired with USDT.

At the same time, an airdrop portal will open for participants in the Cloud Rebellion loyalty program and eligible traders on partner platforms. Existing users running processors on the canary network will have 90 days to move their devices and funds to the mainnet.

According to Acurast’s documentation, this process requires users to unstake their assets on the canary net before starting the transition through the Acurast Hub. After completing the migration, the ACU token will be the main currency for network fees, staking, and rewards for computer providers.

Background and development context

Acurast started with the goal of tackling compute centralization by using the Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs) available in modern mobile hardware. Before reaching this mainnet step, the project operated an incentivized canary network that onboarded over 150,000 compute units and handled hundreds of millions of on-chain transactions, as claimed by the firm.

In late 2025, Acurast raised $11 million in a funding round supported by industry leaders like Gavin Wood and Michael van de Poppe. Although a launch was initially planned for November 2024, the team decided to delay it to align with favorable market conditions and finalize technical integrations. Alessandro De Carli, co-founder of Acurast, previously said that ACU represents a significant step forward as demand for decentralized compute grows rapidly.

Network mechanics 

The live network introduces a dual-purpose function for the ACU token. In addition to being a medium of exchange for compute power, it includes a staked compute mechanism to ensure provider reliability.

Providers must stake tokens to show their commitment to the network, while a 30% burn mechanism on settlement transactions will help manage the long-term token supply and prevent manipulation of reputation. This launch positions Acurast as a competitor in the Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) sector. 

However, such mechanisms can also raise barriers for smaller providers and reduce net earnings if compute demand fails to grow fast enough to offset token burns, a dynamic that has weakened several earlier DePIN networks.

Future implications

Acurast plans to scale its “multichain token” approach by keeping bridges to Ethereum, Base, and Binance Smart Chain. This interoperability will enable developers in various ecosystems to access smartphone-based computing for tasks ranging from AI inference to secure off-chain data processing.

The activation of the Acurast Mainnet signals the end of the project’s testing phase and the start of its effort to demonstrate the potential of mobile-based decentralized clouds. With the TGE and airdrop set for Tuesday, the community’s focus now shifts to the 90-day migration period and the integration of the ACU token into the wider Web3 economy.

Also Read: Sui Mainnet Restored: Technical Bug Behind Network Stall Fixed

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali announced that the nation is seeking foreign investment to create their own Bitcoin mining infrastructure. The plan was revealed during a parliamentary session yesterday.

The goal aims to leverage Ethiopia’s renewable energy potential by using surplus energy that would otherwise go unused and turning it into cryptocurrency for influxes of new money that can boost local industry.

The Prime Minister of Ethiopia on Ethiopian Investment Holdings looking for an investment partner to mine bitcoin directly on behalf of the country… pic.twitter.com/dLuaEk5CYJ

— Kal Kassa (@KalKassa) January 17, 2026

National vision for mining

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed outlined the government’s views on digital asset mining. He explained that the nation has already started exploring this field and is now looking to expand through collaboration. He said, “We have granted licenses based on a policy we call sandbox, rather than saying it’s impossible before we know the issues, we allow it, learn, and then correct it if there are problems.”

The prime minister highlighted the economic potential, saying, “When Ethiopia gave 200 megawatts of energy to one company, it earned tens of millions of dollars, more than the price of the energy.” He further noted the scale of opportunity, stating, “When Ethiopia gives 1,000 megawatts of energy for crypto mining, it can earn between 300 to 500 million dollars a year without exaggeration.”

Discussing the need for partners, he said, “What we have lost is because of our lack of knowledge. We gave the license haphazardly, and when we studied it, the loss was great. But now, when we find a company that says ‘let me invest 100% in the AI factory, in the data center, and in the energy, but let the government share 25%, 30%, 35% with me because there is a risk,’ we will include AI.”

Ethiopia’s growth background

Ethiopia’s entry into the cryptocurrency world is not entirely new. The country has been trying to attract energy-centric sectors for the past few years.

This trend accelerated sometime around 2024, when licenses were issued to data center companies and Bitcoin miners, including firms relocating from China and other locations with high energy prices or tougher regulations.

Global hashrate heatmap

According to Hashrate Index’s Q1 2026 Global Hashrate Heatmap, Ethiopia accounts for approximately 2.6% of global Bitcoin hashrate, or about 27.5 EH/s, ranking it eighth worldwide.

The report shows Ethiopia’s hashrate grew 38% quarter-over-quarter and more than 129% year-over-year, suggesting that previously licensed facilities are now entering full production. This growth occurred even as Ethiopia temporarily paused new power permits in mid-2025 due to grid constraints, indicating that existing hydro-powered facilities are scaling output.

Emerging mining frontier

Ethiopia’s position as a potential Bitcoin mining hub marks a shift from 2022, when crypto-related activities were largely considered illegal.

The construction of major hydro projects, such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), has afforded Ethiopia a surplus of power generated from renewable energy sources beyond its actual demand. The surplus power is the reason for the government’s move to engage in digital mining in its endeavor to find economic value in its resources.

Overcoming infrastructure challenges

If successful, the strategy could position Ethiopia as a major Bitcoin mining center in Africa and other developing regions. The quest for proper investment partners indicates that there is progress towards stability and formal regulation that could see the entry of major actors in the world of cryptocurrency into the country.

However, it is yet to be seen how their government will meet the needs of its people in addition to the energy needs of the mining company, apart from having proper regulatory policies in place.

Also Read: Ripple Secures Initial EMI Approval in Luxembourg, Eyes EU Expansion

Genius Terminal, a decentralized exchange, recorded weekly trading volume over $2.2 billion on Saturday. The increase follows an investment by YZi Labs and the appointment of Changpeng Zhao as an advisor, which appear to have drawn high-value traders to the platform.

Dune Analytics data shows the surge in performance occurred mainly between January 12 and January 17. The execution environment provided by this platform, which has a focus on privacy, allowed large trades on both Solana and EVM networks.

This surge in activity reflects a shift in the trading environment on a decentralized platform. Professional trading terminals have now challenged traditional centralized exchanges with their own version of self-custody and discretion on an institutional level.

Key performance metrics

In the week ending January 17, Genius Terminal recorded a single-day high of over $800 million. The volume touched $48 million on January 12 and has been growing since. During this time, Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) volume contributed majorly alongside Solana. 

To date, the terminal has supported 1,072,729 trades from 29,259 unique wallets. The data signals a concentration of advanced users, with an average volume per trader of $82,480 and an average individual trade size of $2,041.

Recent integration with YZi

Genius Terminal spent much of late 2025 in a limited “soft launch” phase. During this period, the platform processed about $160 million in total volume across ten blockchains. The trajectory changed on January 13, when YZi Labs, the family office of Binance co-founders Changpeng Zhao and Yi He, announced a multi-eight-figure investment in the startup. 

We're incredibly excited to be working with @yzilabs & @cz_binance.

This will allow us to build faster and create a true private on-chain trading experience. https://t.co/Jl8UnFruNo pic.twitter.com/oGXZ6QzWHR

— Genius (@GeniusTerminal) January 13, 2026

Armaan Kalsi, co-founder and CEO, mentioned that the funding aimed at “creating an ‘on-chain’ Binance.” COO Ryan Myher said, “If you were rebuilding Binance today, you wouldn’t do it as a centralized exchange — you’d build it on‑chain.” He added, “Genius is our answer to what that looks like: one terminal, full custody, no compromises.”

Future privacy roadmap

The platform’s next phase involves rolling out its privacy orchestration layer. The terminal currently features “Ghost Orders,” which use multi-party computation to split large trades across up to 500 wallets to avoid front-running and strategy leaks. 

A public beta for this protocol is planned for the second quarter of 2026. As the platform scales to support more than 12 chains, its ability to maintain these multi-billion dollar volume levels will likely decide if it can become the top execution layer for professional decentralized finance.

Also Read: Pump.fun Hits $1.4B Volume to Top Solana DEX Leaderboard in 2026

Garret Jin, often associated with U.S. President Donald Trump, is currently holding long positions of around $900 million. Hyperdash data shows that Jin has opened high-leverage positions in Ethereum (ETH), Bitcoin (BTC), and Solana (SOL), indicating a coordinated bet on a market rally.

The positions appear as he attempts to capitalize on market volatilities based on his timing predictions. His portfolio on Hyperdash reflects an aggressive breakdown of these positions.

Jin’s portfolio breakdown

The largest position is on Ethereum, where the wallet holds 223,340.65 ETH valued at approximately $741.79 million. The 5x position was entered at an average price of $3,161.8, with a liquidation level near $2,192.1. Based on current prices, the trade is sitting on an unrealized profit of roughly $35.5 million, making ETH the most critical leg of the portfolio.

In Bitcoin, the wallet holds a 10x long position of 1,000 BTC, currently valued at $95.45 million, with an entry price of $91,507. The position is up around $3.94 million in unrealized gains, reflecting the recent stability in BTC prices above the $90,000 level.

Additionally, the trader holds a sizable Solana position, with 511,612.85 SOL valued at $73.66 million, entered at $130.19 using 10x leverage. This position has generated approximately $7.05 million in unrealized profit, supported by continued strength in SOL relative to other large-cap altcoins.

This aggressive trading strategy has already generated more than $46 million in unrealized profits in total.

Political connections and 100% win-rate history

Jin’s political connections naturally bring extra scrutiny to his market activity. While there is no evidence of policy coordination or the use of privileged information, his reported ties to the Trump administration mean his trades are often analyzed for insights into future policy directions and the administration’s stance on digital currencies.

He gained attention in October when he executed a huge short position that earned $100 million in just three hours. The trade established him as a 100% “win-rate” outlier in the crypto market, leading many to wonder about his sources. By going all-in again with nearly a billion dollars in total position value, Jin is repeating a high-risk strategy that reflects his previous wins.

This substantial ‘all-in’ bet suggests strong conviction that the market’s current momentum will be sustained.

Future market implications

For the market itself, the scenario has a dual outcome. If the profits in the positions maintained by Jin continue to roll in, it might trigger an increase in ‘FOMO’ sentiment across the retail and institutional sectors, leading the stock to hit a new high. On the other hand, such leveraged positions are also a market liquidation target if the direction changes.

Traders are closely watching the $3,161 entry price for his Ethereum long and the $91,506 level for Bitcoin as key support points.

Also Read: Polymarket Phenom Turns $12 into $104K, a Whopping 8,300x Profit

The Panna Police in Madhya Pradesh have uncovered a large financial scam where around ₹100 crore was illegally transferred to China via cryptocurrency. This investigation, which gained traction in early 2026, showed that a group of cybercriminals targeted Indian citizens through fake investment schemes. 

As per a report, the scammers converted the stolen money into digital assets to avoid national banking rules. The main goal of this operation was to take advantage of unsuspecting investors and move large amounts of money out of the country through anonymous channels.

Local victim investigation

The case came to light after a resident of Panna district reported losing ₹5 lakh to a scammer after being lured through social media and then blocked. Panna Superintendent of Police Sai Krishna S. Thota said the cyber cell tracked the money trail after a local victim reported a loss. 

The Panna police stated that more than 400 complaints related to this specific gang have been registered in different states across India.

The operation involved sending APK files related to crypto trading to unsuspecting users to facilitate the fraud. The accused involved in managing the accounts reportedly received commissions ranging from 1% to 5% on total transactions, while mule account holders were paid between ₹50,000 and ₹1.5 lakh to allow fraudsters to operate current accounts in their names.

Tracking the money

Additional Superintendent of Police Vandana Singh Chauhan stated that the cyber cell tracked a money trail across 40 different bank accounts used by the gang.

According to the Panna Police, the investigation revealed that the money was first collected in various Indian bank accounts and then converted into cryptocurrency to be sent to handlers based in China. Authorities identified several shell companies that were used to layer the transactions, making initial detection difficult.

Similar past MP cases

This incident is not unique to Madhya Pradesh. In the past two years, the state has seen a rise in “FedEx” scams and “digital arrest” frauds. In such cases, the motives are to extort money in the name of law and customs officials.

In earlier cases, the cyberspace cells operating in Bhopal and Indore have frozen the accounts of hundreds of people associated with overseas groups. These operations have shifted from direct bank transfers to cryptocurrency because digital tokens provide more anonymity and faster international movement compared to traditional SWIFT transfers.

Future regulatory implications

Experts say the case is only the start of a new collaboration between the Reserve Bank of India, the Enforcement Directorate, and the state police on monitoring the use of “mule accounts,” the initial tools of such cyber scams. If such gaps remain, the threat of Indian capital flight as well as the continued victimization of small investors by global cyber-syndicates persists.

The Panna Police’s investigation shows the increasing scale of international cybercrimes and the problem of tracing these assets after they are stored in the blockchain. While there have been some arrests for the misappropriation of accounts in the country, the culprits are all based internationally.

Also Read: ED Seizes ₹10.86 Cr in Haryana Land Fraud & Crypto Scam Case

Dash (DASH) surged to a high of $88 on January 16, marking a 136% price increase over the last 30 days. The January rally was driven by a series of global payment integrations, along with a short squeeze in the derivatives market.

The move comes as the capital influx began moving out of competing Privacy Coins and a struggling Layer 1 chain. The major driving factor behind such pricing has been the rapid usage of Dash in the retail industry.

Retail adoption drivers

On January 15, Dash finalized a partnership with AEON Pay, enabling DASH payments across a network of over 50 million merchants in Southeast Asia and Africa. This followed a January 13 announcement from Alchemy Pay, which launched a specialized fiat-to-DASH on-ramp supporting credit cards and mobile wallets in 173 countries.

Massive news: Dash is now available at 50 million merchants worldwide! 🤯

We're absolutely thrilled to be working with @AEON_Community to bring decentralized, instant, private digital cash to the world. 🙏 https://t.co/Ep69ynMkEQ

— Dash (@Dashpay) January 15, 2026

Although these basic developments established a floor for the price, the rally was driven by a huge short squeeze. On January 13, short positions of approximately $5 million were unwound due to negative funding rates, which compelled traders to buy back the asset, adding fuel to the rally.

The rebound signals a change for an asset that was stagnant in a downtrend for most of 2024 and 2025. Over the years, it was one of the first frontrunners in the cryptocurrency market that emphasized support for InstantSend and PrivateSend functionality. However, the token had to endure several years of technical issues and was eventually eclipsed by next-generation blockchain technologies.

The recent breakout over the psychological level of $50 signals the end of a descending triangle. Dash surged nearly 50% in a single day on January 13, reaching $69. This rapid ascent was supported by a 2,300% spike in derivatives trading volume.

Shift in industry trend

Dash may also be benefiting from turmoil elsewhere in the sector. Specifically, governance delays within the Zcash ecosystem and a technical failure on the Sui network, which saw its mainnet face a stall on January 15, have prompted investors to move liquidity into more established, functional protocols.

The market is paying close attention to the upcoming Dash Evolution upgrade that is planned for the end of this quarter. This technological changeover is expected to allow for decentralized apps and data contracts to be part of the network.

Current market data 

At the time of writing, DASH is trading at $87, marking a 24-hour surge. The market capitalization stands at $1.09 billion.

The circulating supply stands at 12.55 million DASH, which is about 66% of its 18.9 million maximum supply.

Future price targets

If Dash holds its support above $75, some technical analyses place its next level of resistance roughly around $140.

The recent performance of Dash shows just how much investors are interested in “legacy” assets that show meaningful merchant adoption. Although the Relative Strength Index suggests that it may be overbought in the short term, a mix of new fiat entry points and lack of interest in newer high-speed channels has brought Dash relevance in the market.

Also Read: U.S. Spot Crypto ETFs Pull $1.05B as Bitcoin Demand Surges

Sui Network, a layer 1 blockchain, suffered a bug on January 15, which has been fixed and restored an internal consensus error that had paused the blockchain for about six hours.

As per the official report, the network returned to its normal operations after the deployment of a software patch, deployed with validator support to fix the bug. The shutdown was due to a rare system consensus logic bug that caused the system’s validators to arrive at different results. The bug commit logic regarding how conflicts are resolved during certain situations of garbage collection in the network.

Consensus logic and divergence

The official report stated that an optimization path led various validators to produce different consensus commit outputs. This caused them to execute different candidate checkpoints. When more than one-third of the network’s stake was found to be signing different digests, the checkpoint certification process became impossible. 

To avoid finalizing an inconsistent state, the validators paused; this is the intended safety behavior for this kind of issue. The recovery process involved finding the point of divergence, removing incorrect consensus data, and rolling out a fixed binary to all validators, who then replayed the consensus data safely.

Impact on Sui ecosystem

This incident follows a period of major concern for users and decentralized applications using the platform. During the pause, transaction submissions timed out and stopped all execution, though the system continued to serve the last certified state through Remote Procedure Call reads.

Despite the disruption, the Sui Foundation confirmed that no certified state forks occurred, no transactions were rolled back, and user funds remained completely secure throughout the event. This is a situation that shows the effect such a pause has on the greater ecosystem, even when safety protocols work as intended.

Future network infrastructure improvements

The investigation identified a few areas for improvement that could reduce the likelihood of such a situation again. They are focusing on faster detection mechanisms so that pausing consensus may happen way sooner in case of inconsistencies, reducing the amount of data to replay during recovery.

In addition, new operator tools are being developed to support validators in the identification and repair of inconsistent internal states. The team is also increasing randomized testing and validation configurations to ensure this specific type of consensus issue can be identified and resolved before reaching the mainnet.

Also Read: Sui Unveils Seal to Bring Native Encryption to Blockchain Apps 

Newrez, a national mortgage lender and servicer, announced on Tuesday that it will start accepting cryptocurrency assets for mortgage qualification beginning in February. The Pennsylvania-based company said digital asset holders will be able to use their holdings for income estimation and asset verification without selling or liquidating their portfolios. 

This initiative aims to modernize the lending process for the growing number of crypto-savvy investors, especially younger generations, by giving them the same financial flexibility that traditional stock and bond investors have.

Newrez becomes the first top 25 mortgage provider in the country to consider digital holdings for qualification, the company claims.

By @Spencer_NYC https://t.co/zjmmtADsHF

— National Mortgage News (@NatMortgageNews) January 13, 2026

According to the company, this is the first time a major lender in the top 25 in the United States has officially included digital assets in the mortgage origination process. Under the new guidelines, eligible cryptocurrency holdings can be used to satisfy the requirements for mortgage approval.

Removing financial barriers

This shift is meant to eliminate the traditional hurdle where borrowers had to sell their crypto to get a loan. By taking notice of these values, it will enable the lender to open doors of opportunity to new borrowers in order for them to preserve their own freedom of choice regarding investing.

The mortgage industry has been slow to respond to the volatility and decentralized nature of digital currencies. Though buyers may have looked at using other forms of securities like stocks or mutual funds as proof of wealth and income, the implications meant that those with cryptocurrencies had no choice but to swap their holdings for fiat money before exiting.

Market hurdles and growth

This was often due to capital gains tax implications and also due to investors being out of their long-term investments when they did not need to. There are signs of conviction levels from both sides that have made prominent financial institutions rethink their risk models.

Addressing the move, Newrez President Baron Silverstein noted, “Today, an increasing number of consumers include crypto in their investment portfolios, while major financial institutions are deepening their involvement in crypto assets, supported by key regulatory developments.” 

He added that their company believes it’s the right time to systematically incorporate eligible cryptos into modern mortgage lending.

Expanding product suites

Crypto assets will be integrated into the Smart Series product suite, which includes non-agency mortgage products. The change could indicate a bigger shift in how the credit and lending industry views digital wealth. With around 45% of Millennial and Gen Z investors currently owning cryptocurrency, other major lenders might feel pressure to adopt similar policies to stay competitive.

This could also promote more standardized regulatory guidelines regarding the valuation and use of digital assets as collateral with respect to the housing sector, which could help bridge the gap between DeFi and traditional banks.

Targeting younger generations 

Newrez Chief Commercial Officer Leslie Gillin said that Newrez believes in meeting consumers where they’re at. She noted that the global crypto market has exceeded $3 trillion, and around 45% of Gen Z and Millennial investors, many of whom are future homebuyers, own crypto. 

“Our mission at Newrez is to do everything possible to make home happen and this innovation marks yet another step in creating new pathways to homeownership, giving consumers flexibility and control,” she added.

Connecting financial worlds

The decision to support the recognition of digital assets without the necessity for a liquidation process establishes a key linkage between traditional financial frameworks and the crypto space.

The decision to roll out the lending process by February likely establishes a platform for the lending company to tap into tech-savvy investors who have otherwise been excluded by traditional lending practices. The impact that stability has on loans will be watched closely by the real estate sector as the process takes shape.

Also Read: Ripple Secures FCA Approval to Expand UK Payments

The ETHGas Foundation announced the launch of a new governance token, $GWEI, on January 12 to support its infrastructure for real-time Ethereum blockspace.

The foundation described Ethereum as the industry’s most secure settlement layer but noted that the network relies on a system of blind competition for blockspace allocation. According to ETHGas, this structure is a primary cause of execution uncertainty, high latency, and the fluctuating gas fees that continue to challenge both developers and end-users.

Introducing $GWEI: the governance token for ETHGas.

Built to govern Realtime Ethereum. pic.twitter.com/tMJ91RVAkG

— ETHGas Foundation (@ETHGasFNDN) January 13, 2026

Functions and distribution model

The token will have five main functions: on-chain decision-making through staked $veGWEI, delegation for liquid democracy, commitment-based rewards for long-term lockers, managing the treasury for ecosystem grants, and emergency powers for protocol upgrades.

The foundation disclosed a total supply of 10,000,000,000 $GWEI tokens. 

The distribution model breaks down as follows: 31% for the ecosystem, 27% for investors, 22% for the core team, 10% for the community, 8% for the foundation, and 2% for advisors.

Solving blockspace allocation

The launch aligns with the foundation’s ongoing goal to solve the issues related to blockspace allocation. It believes that this allocation has not kept pace with the applications that run on Ethereum.

ETHGas seeks to turn blockspace into a tradable asset, allowing for predictable execution through pre-confirmations and commitments. Before launching this token, the project focused on laying the technical groundwork for what it calls the Realtime Era, aiming to remove the blind competition seen in the standard mempool.

Genesis Harvest airdrop

To kick off the initial distribution, ETHGas has planned a community airdrop called The Genesis Harvest. An eligibility snapshot is to be held on January 19, at 00:00 UTC. 

The airdrop will prioritize users who can show historical gas spent on the network, along with social verification. This method aims to favor real users over automated bots or mercenary farmers. The control of the protocol will be vested in $veGWEI token holders, who will be involved in decision-making regarding critical variables and smart contracts.

Enhancing user experience

ETHGas aims to enhance gasless user experience and affordable gas fees for decentralized applications. With the progression of the Open Gas Initiative, the future of the technology depends greatly on the governance token. 

Observers in the industry will likely pay close attention to the January 19 snapshot and the following distribution to see how this decentralized management model affects the efficiency of Ethereum’s blockspace markets in the coming year.

Also Read: 21Shares Launches Bitcoin-Gold ETP on London Stock Exchange

Dash (DASH) surged over 50% in a span of 24 hours, touching the level of $69. This abrupt rise was primarily driven by a short squeeze that wiped out millions of bearish bets.

At the time of writing, DASH is trading at $56.42, up 47.3% over the past 24 hours. The market capitalization stands at $708.21 million. The 24-hour trading volume is at $816.91 million, with an increase of over 893%. The circulating supply is 12.55 million DASH out of a maximum supply of 18.9 million.

Rapid market ascent and catalyst

The price of Dash surged from a daily low of around $39.21 to a high of $69.22 within the last day. This movement created a large green candlestick on daily charts and was largely fueled by the liquidation of $4.9 million in short positions.

During the same time, open interest for the token rose by 150%, reaching a total of $131.22 million. Trading volume in the derivatives market also increased by over 2,300%, indicating a spike in professional trading activity.

Moreover, this development occurred in tandem with a major global payment system integration and investment in the area of privacy-centric digital currencies.

Dash currently has over four times the transactions that it did when the price was at all-time highs.

We had no Evolution chain, no privacy overhaul on the horizon, and it was difficult to live all on Dash (now it's easy for much of the world).

This has been a slow climb but… pic.twitter.com/Sr06AyBHoZ

— Dash (@Dashpay) January 13, 2026

Partnerships and sector rotation

In addition to technical trading factors, Dash has gained from a new partnership with the payment gateway Alchemy Pay. This integration allows global fiat access in 173 countries, enabling users to buy the token with more than 50 different fiat currencies using 300 unique payment channels.

Market analysts also highlight a “capital rotation” in the privacy coin sector as a factor. As other major privacy assets like Monero reached new all-time highs, investors started moving profits into Dash, which they saw as undervalued.

We're thrilled to be supported by Alchemy Pay!

Thanks for the partnership, this will help us get Dash in the hands of even more people around the world🤝 https://t.co/Ke9MkOady7

— Dash (@Dashpay) January 13, 2026

Background and market context

The recent rally follows a tough period for Dash. The coin is experiencing regulatory pressures, such as the prohibition of privacy coins in Dubai on January 12.

The markets appear to consider this to be regional news, and hence, there has been a “relief rally” because the coin has held supportive levels around $37. Historically, Dash has always had the task of balancing between being a payment coin and a privacy-focused coin. It features InstantSend for speed and PrivateSend for transaction privacy.

Future outlook and technical hurdles

The Dash ecosystem is set for the Q1 2026 rollout of the Evolution platform. The upgrade seeks to incorporate “memo-free swaps,” which will facilitate cross-chain transactions, as well as support the backup of on-chain metadata. 

This move will see the expansion of the network’s usage within the area of decentralized finance. The risks associated with regulation, however, still pose a serious threat. 

The governments of different parts of the world are increasing regulation of coins that have improved anonymity. The rise in Dash’s price signals a return to volatility in this traditional cryptocurrency market participant.

Although this rapid price rise was triggered by a technical squeeze and new fiat-to-cryptocurrency access available via Alchemy Pay, it remains uncertain whether this will be sustained through the execution of its roadmap in 2026 or navigating global regulatory requirements concerning privacy-focused cryptocurrencies.

Also Read: Midnight Network (NIGHT) Price 83% Crash Post-Launch

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday announced the attachment of assets worth Rs. 10.86 crore related to a land fraud and cryptocurrency scam in Haryana. The action was taken under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) after investigating claims that Sandeep Yadav, Manoj Yadav, and their associates defrauded the public of about Rs. 26.54 crore.

According to the agency, the group reportedly used fake real estate transactions and false promises of high returns on digital assets to steal money from investors. They laundered these funds into physical property and specific crypto tokens.

ED, Chandigarh Zonal Office has provisionally attached movable and immovable properties worth Rs. 10.86 Crore (in the form of Flat & land worth Rs. 6.06 Crore and Cryptocurrencies lying in the crypto wallets in the shape of Ramifi Tokens worth Rs. 4.79 Crore) under PMLA, 2002 in… pic.twitter.com/3d2eYgtIHw

— ED (@dir_ed) January 13, 2026

Details of the scam

This enforcement action includes freezing both immovable and digital assets. The seized property consists of a flat and land valued at Rs. 6.06 crore. 

The ED also targeted digital assets, specifically cryptocurrencies kept in wallets, which were valued as Ramifi Tokens worth Rs. 4.79 crore. Investigators discovered that the crime proceeds were moved through third-party bank accounts and withdrawn in cash to hide the paper trail. 

The agency noted that most transactions with victims were in cash. This investigation began from the original First Information Reports (FIRs) filed by the Haryana Police against the main accused. 

Police investigation findings

Further financial examination by the ED pointed to a wider pattern of alleged criminal activity involving Mohan Sharma and other close associates. The group is accused of attracting around 20 individuals with two different schemes.

These include selling residential plots fraudulently and soliciting investments in cryptocurrency by promising unusually high profits. Before this latest asset attachment, the agency searched 10 locations, recovering Rs. 17 crore in various cryptocurrencies and freezing Rs. 46 lakh in linked bank accounts.

Repeat offenders

Authorities have described Sandeep Yadav and his associates as repeat offenders, citing the number of cases registered against them. The case also shows the rising trend on the part of financial offenders who seek to merge classic property fraud with cryptocurrencies. 

They aim to take their game to the next level by having people with high-risk investment demand invest in Ramifi Tokens and other cryptocurrencies. The ongoing actions under the PMLA suggest the federal government is tightening its oversight of how digital assets are used in money laundering in India.

Broader ED crackdown

This action shows the escalation of federal oversight as the Enforcement Directorate increases its oversight on digital asset-related crimes across India. Recently, the agency exposed 26 fraudulent cryptocurrency websites that were used to deceive unsuspecting investors through organized phishing and social engineering tactics.

Earlier this month, the ED also summoned businessman Raj Kundra in connection with a Rs. 150 crore money laundering probe linked to an alleged Bitcoin Ponzi scheme. These efforts show a shift in India’s regulatory landscape, where authorities are targeting both local and large-scale digital asset schemes.

As the ED continues to trace the remaining proceeds of the Rs. 26.54 crore fraud, this case might set a precedent for how the agency deals with the seizure and evaluation of specific altcoins during criminal investigations. Meanwhile, the seizure of these assets by attachment will ensure that the alleged stolen amount is secured as the case against the Yadavs and their accomplices unfolds.

Also Read: Prince Group’s Chen Zhi Arrested Over $15B Crypto Scam Network

Digital asset management firm 21Shares launched its Bitcoin Gold ETP, ticker BOLD, on the London Stock Exchange on Tuesday. The new investment option gives UK retail investors a regulated way to combine crypto and precious metals. 

Developed with ByteTree Asset Management, the Exchange-Traded Product (ETP) uses a monthly rebalancing strategy that adjusts asset weights based on historical stability, with the aim of managing risk.

Disclaimer: Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong. Take 2 mins to learn more: https://t.co/d9gFbwImMu

🇬🇧 Introducing the 21shares Bitcoin Gold ETP… pic.twitter.com/neRbphESOr

— 21shares (@21shares) January 13, 2026

Listing and fees

As per the official announcement, the 21Shares Bitcoin Gold ETP is listed on the London Stock Exchange under ISIN CH1146882308. It is denominated in GBP and has an annual management fee of 0.65%. The net asset value is $50.28. 

The product is designed to provide a diversified hedge against inflation while allowing investors to share the growth experience of the digital economy through one instrument that is physically backed.

The ETP adjusts the ratio of Bitcoin to gold every month. Instead of a fixed division, the allocation depends on the assets’ historical volatility. This means the portfolio will favor the more stable asset at any given time. 

Risk and security

The approach aims for equal risk contribution from both holdings. As of today, the strategy has a 3-year Sharpe ratio of 1.79 and assets under management totaling $40.1 million. Security is ensured through complete physical backing, with all underlying assets stored in cold storage by a high-quality custodian.

This launch responds to changes in the UK regulatory landscape. BOLD is the fifth cryptocurrency-related product from 21Shares to gain prospectus approval from the Financial Conduct Authority for retail distribution. Earlier, 21Shares successfully introduced Bitcoin and Ethereum offerings to the local market. 

Bridging TradFi and crypto

By mixing a traditional store-of-value asset like gold with a modern digital asset like Bitcoin, the product aims to bridge traditional finance with the crypto market. It provides a more balanced risk profile than typical crypto exchange-traded notes.

The emergence of BOLD at the LSE reflects an intersection of digital assets within the financial infrastructure of the UK. With the rise of additional regulated investment vehicles available for retail investors, the landscape may become more stable.

This level of advancement may give rise to innovations through hybrid assets as the different markets are combined for the specific needs of a volatile world economy.

21Shares’ recent ETP launches

This is part of a broader expansion strategy for 21Shares, which has been listing new products across major markets over the past few months. In December 2025, the firm launched a suite of crypto ETPs on Nasdaq Stockholm, targeting the growing institutional and retail demand in the Swedish market.

Simultaneously, 21Shares has been diversifying its product range beyond core assets like Bitcoin and Gold to include decentralized finance (DeFi) primitives. The recent launch of the Morpho and Ethena ETPs highlights this shift, offering investors regulated access to yield-generating protocols and governance tokens.

Addressing market volatility

The launch of the BOLD ETP represents the expansion of the regulated crypto-access products available in the UK. With the balance created by the combination of Gold and Bitcoin, 21Shares and ByteTree aim to cover the gap that market volatility exposes.

21Shares CEO Russell Barlow said, “BOLD is an exciting new product that aims to offer investors a potential hedge against inflation, exposure to Bitcoin’s growth potential, and the relative stability of gold. Now that retail investors in the UK have access to crypto ETPs, 21shares is dedicated to delivering a wider selection of innovative regulated products.”

Moreover, Charles Morris, Founder and CIO of ByteTree Asset Management, commented on the product, stating, “Bitcoin and gold are increasingly viewed as complementary assets in a world of persistent inflation and monetary uncertainty. BOLD applies a disciplined, rules-based approach to combining them, aiming to provide a transparent solution for investors seeking diversified exposure to these assets.”

Also Read: BTC, Gold, & Silver Rally Briefly as Dollar Wavers Amid Fed Concerns

Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Mike Selig announced at an industry conference on Monday that the agency has established an Innovation Advisory Committee. The initiative is intended to update antiquated finance systems by including industry experts in regulatory forums to make them more relevant to modern times.

Some of the first members of this committee include digital asset industry heavies such as Tyler Winklevoss of Gemini and Arjun Sethi of Kraken. This marks a strategic step to bring crypto expertise into the agency just weeks after Selig took charge.

Chairman Selig Launches the CFTC Innovation Advisory Committee: https://t.co/f4pPkNXDiR

— CFTC (@CFTC) January 12, 2026

The newly formed committee is a part of Selig’s restructuring of the agency. According to a statement released on Monday, the chairman is using a previously announced list of executives to serve as the charter members of this innovation-focused group.

Broad sector representation

In addition to Winklevoss and Sethi, the committee features high-level representatives from firms like Bitnomial, Crypto.com, and Bullish. The panel also includes leaders from prediction market platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi, as well as traditional financial organizations such as Nasdaq, CME Group, the Intercontinental Exchange, and Cboe Global Markets.

This move comes after a transitional period at the CFTC. Selig’s temporary predecessor, former Acting Chairman Caroline Pham, set up a group of chief executives focused on financial technology during her last days at the agency.

Selig has now formalized that group into the Innovation Advisory Committee to serve as a key consultative body. This development happened shortly after the U.S. Senate confirmed several crypto-friendly nominees to lead both the CFTC and the FDIC. This suggests a broader shift toward a more cooperative approach with the digital asset industry.

Selig’s chairman confirmation

The appointment of Tyler Winklevoss to the innovation panel follows the recent Senate confirmation of Michael Selig as CFTC Chairman in December 2025, securing a 53-43 vote. Immediately after, Selig established crypto priorities aimed at shifting the agency away from a litigation-heavy approach toward a more structured regulatory framework. 

The innovation committee is based on the former Technology Advisory Committee and is one of five outside groups aimed at providing the regulator with specialized knowledge. Selig mentioned that the agency plans to use these insights to create new rules for the digital economy. 

In his official statement, Selig said, “Innovators are harnessing technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing to modernize legacy financial systems and build entirely new ones. Under my leadership, the commission will develop fit-for-purpose market structure regulations for this new frontier of finance.”

Strengthening regulatory role

The CFTC is expected to expand its role as the main regulator for the U.S. crypto market. The agency has invited the public to contribute to the growth of this committee by submitting member nominations and suggesting specific topics for consideration by the end of January. 

This approach indicates that the upcoming regulatory framework for digital assets will likely be shaped by the companies the agency oversees, potentially leading to a more efficient and industry-informed oversight model in the years ahead.

Also Read: Amir Zaidi Returns to CFTC as Chief of Staff After 6-Year Break

The National Cryptocurrency Association (NCA) released the outcome of a national poll with HarrisQuest DIY on Monday. The survey showed that American consumers support the availability of stablecoin rewards by almost a 4-to-1 margin.

As per a report, the poll gathered data from 2,000 U.S. adults on January 9. The results highlight a gap between public interest in financial innovation and recent efforts by the banking sector to push for new legislative restrictions. Consumers see these rewards as a matter of healthy market competition rather than a danger to safety.

Survey results and data

Many are skeptical of why the banking industry opposes them. According to the results of the poll, 48% of voters are in support of consumers earning rewards through stablecoins, whereas 12% are opposed to it.

When asked about the pushback from traditional financial institutions, 46% of Americans believe the banking industry’s stance is about competition, not a true interest in protecting consumers. 

NCA leadership perspective

Stuart Alderoty, President of the National Cryptocurrency Association, pointed out that the public seems to understand the political debate clearly. “The public knows what’s really at stake here,” Alderoty said.

“Americans overwhelmingly support choice, and many are skeptical of efforts to shut down new financial options for consumers under the guise of protection,” he added.

Legislative and historical context

The discussion comes as the U.S. Senate continues to discuss the Responsible Financial Innovation Act (RFIA), which aims to create a regulatory framework for digital assets. 

Thus far in the discussion of stablecoins, the greater concern has been the way in which these virtual currencies could disrupt the supervision role within the existing banking structure in the United States. However, new information has now arisen that seems to suggest a potential misunderstanding of the typical American attitude on the matter. 

Global innovation and competitiveness

71% of the existing crypto-users believe that it is a high priority for the USA to continue its preeminent role in the development of stablecoin technology. Such observations tend to imply that the introduction of stablecoins in the economy may have a positive impact on the traditional banking system.

The survey indicated that 26% of the respondents would not transfer any of the current amount if rewards were in stablecoins, while 46% would transfer some of the amount they have. 

Implications for future policy

This suggests that consumers see stablecoins as a useful addition rather than a complete substitute for bank accounts. However, if the banking industry manages to lobby for strict bans, it could hinder the innovation that 71% of holders consider vital for U.S. competitiveness.

This report challenges the argument that harsh limits are required concerning stablecoin rewards to protect the public. As Congress debates the evolution of the Responsible Financial Innovation Act, the data suggests that the public supports choice and market competition as an alternative to government prohibition.

As policymakers think about changes to stablecoin rules, Alderoty said consumers want choices and sensible regulations that keep the U.S. leading in global innovation, not bans. They see arguments against financial innovation as stemming from banks trying to avoid competition.

Also Read: Coinbase May Pull Support as CLARITY Act Targets Stablecoin Rewards

On January 8, the Bitcoin Core development team added a new lead maintainer, granting commit access to a pseudonymous developer known as TheCharlatan. This marks the first appointment in nearly three years. 

As per the report, the promotion increases the number of individuals holding Trusted Keys to six. The goal is to improve the security and oversight of the master branch of the Bitcoin Core software.

Community support and consensus

The decision followed support from at least 20 members of the development community, who cited the developer’s technical skills and consistent review process. TheCharlatan, also known as sedited, changes the small group responsible for approving software updates. 

Current keyholders include Marco Falke, Gloria Zhao, Ryan Ofsky, Hennadii Stepanov, Ava Chow, and TheCharlatan. Contributors reported no objections to the nomination. Supporters described him as a dependable reviewer who has worked extensively in crucial parts of the codebase. They noted that he carefully considers what goes out to users and developers and has a solid understanding of the technical consensus process.

Background and technical focus

TheCharlatan graduated from the University of Zurich and is originally from South Africa. His work has mainly focused on reproducibility and the validation logic of the software. His work regarding reproducible builds is very important in order to make sure the public can reproduce the binary code independently of the source.

He improved validation logic, which was built upon earlier pull requests by Carl Dong, to make the code that decides whether a block correctly extends the blockchain.

Decentralized governance history

This shift toward a group-based management system is a change from the project’s early days. In 2009, Satoshi Nakamoto had sole commit-level access. This authority later passed to Gavin Andresen and then to Wladimir van der Laan. The move to a decentralized group of lead maintainers was initiated by van der Laan, partly in response to legal pressures from Craig Wright. 

By spreading out control, the project tries to lower the risk of a single point of failure or a legal target. More developers have joined over the past decade, including Falke in 2016 and Zhao in 2022.

Future protocol resilience

This change has implications for Bitcoin’s governance. By increasing the number of maintainers, the project distributes the ability to merge code changes in an effort to protect the software against single points of centralized influence or individual compromise. 

As the development community continues to recognize only a few PGP keys for commit access, adding a new trusted member helps ensure that maintaining the multibillion-dollar protocol is resilient against both technical bugs and outside pressures.

Also Read: Zcash Developers Quit and Start New Venture Amid Board Clash