Aurelia Butler

More stories

  • 163 Shares169 Views

    in Cryptocurrency

    Bitcoin (BTC) Head and Shoulders Pattern to Cause Drop to $80,000? Possible Scenarios

    In the recent Bitcoin rally, this level acted as a crucial threshold and the price surged above it to create a new range. The pullback is seen as a test of the validity of the breakout, and if the H&S formation keeps developing, $80,000 could be a potential downside target. The convergence of technical and behavioral indicators is the main conclusion of the analysis.Kibar points out that the market community’s knee-jerk and extremely confident replies frequently serve as markers of elevated speculative sentiment, which may trigger a correction. This behavioral observation is consistent with the historical trend of pullbacks following an initial breakout in broadening patterns.According to the chart, in order to avoid a more significant retracement, key support levels like $91,000 and $87,000 must hold. Should these levels be broken, additional bearish pressure might be applied that could push the price as low as $80,000. On the other hand, a bounce above $100,000 would render the bearish H&S pattern meaningless and pave the way for a further upward bullish leg.The future of Bitcoin is still in a precarious position. The $80,000 target is realistic in the H&S scenario, but whether Bitcoin can stabilize or face additional downward pressure will depend heavily on technical factors like key support and resistance levels, as well as overall market sentiment.This article was originally published on U.Today More

  • 163 Shares119 Views

    in Economy

    Russian rouble seen around 100 per US dollar in early 2025- Reuters poll

    MOSCOW (Reuters) – The Russian rouble is expected to keep changing hands for around 100 per U.S. dollar at the start of 2025 and gradually weaken to 108 towards the end of the year, a Reuters poll of 10 economists showed on Friday.The rouble fell to its lowest level in about 2-1/2 years in November as the U.S. imposed new financial sanctions on Russia, but it has regained some ground since then after the central bank intervened to support it.Most analysts believe that the 100 mark against the dollar is the new equilibrium level as the situation with foreign trade transactions, disrupted by sanctions, stabilises, while other factors will support the rouble.Analysts noted that the first quarter of the year is traditionally favourable for the rouble as imports, overseas travel and external debt payments decrease.The rouble slumped to 103.7 against the U.S. dollar on Friday after the central bank announced it would withdraw some support for the currency in the first working week of 2025 following the New Year break.Analysts predicted that the central bank would hold its benchmark interest rate at 21% throughout the first half of 2025 after it surprised markets on Dec. 20 by keeping rates unchanged.”We expect the central bank to keep the key rate at 21% at the meeting on Feb. 14. We believe that lending will continue to slow down, aligning with the regulator’s forecast for 2025,” said Mikhail Vasilyev from Sovcombank.Russia’s central bank has hiked its key rate to the highest level in more than 20 years as it seeks to curb inflation, which analysts expect to be at 9.8% this year, and to counter economic overheating as a consequence of excessive government spending.Analysts are estimating GDP growth of 3.9% in 2024, slightly above their previous call of 3.8%. In 2025, economic growth is forecast to slow sharply to 1.6% due to the central bank’s monetary tightening.Analysts foresee inflation rates falling to 6.6%, closer to the regulator’s target of 4%, towards the end of next year, creating room for the central bank to reduce its benchmark rate to 18% in the fourth quarter of 2025. More

  • 138 Shares119 Views

    in Cryptocurrency

    Sentient AI Secures $1.5M Raise, Prepares AI Agent Launchpad on Sui

    Sentient AI, incubated by GameFi.org and partnered with Ape Terminal, Polkastarter, and ChainGPT, has closed its first funding period, securing a total raise of $1.5M.Sentient AI (SETAI) introduces an AI Agent capable of human-like thoughts and emotions. Serving as both a chatbot and personal assistant, it generates creative solutions through exceptional critical thinking and empathetic responses. With the ability to perceive the world and respond with creativity, Sentient AI redefines interaction in the digital age.This milestone, achieved with the support of Ape Terminal, GameFi.org, Polkastarter, ChainGPT, SuiPad, and other notable partners, marks a pivotal moment as Sentient AI prepares for its Token Generation Event and the launch of its next-generation Agent Launchpad.The future of high-IQ-EQ AI AgentWhile legitimate concerns surrounding AI—such as privacy, bias, and job displacement—persist, Sentient AI sets itself apart by embracing a human-centric approach to AI development.Agent Launchpad on Sui NetworkA cornerstone of the Sentient AI team’s vision is the upcoming Agent Launchpad, designed to help investors optimize their AI tokens and gain exclusive early access to investment opportunities across the web3 space.By integrating with the Sui Network, Sentient AI leverages Sui’s strengths: high speed for rapid interactions, horizontal scalability for large-scale tasks, and cost-effectiveness to drive widespread adoption. Investors can also benefit from advanced security powered by Sui’s Move language and a seamless user experience provided by this rising network.The Agent Launchpad currently reports three projects under incubation, with the first product set to launch for token stakers in January 2025.Strong Progress & Team ExpertiseSentient AI’s growth is bolstered by a diverse group of industry-leading investors, prominent VCs, KOLs, and blockchain pioneers, highlighting the product’s trendsetting potential.The progress of Sentient AI is demonstrated through impressive metrics from early testing: over 1 million interactions and 100,000 users within two weeks.With a proven track record of delivering impactful and innovative products, the Sentient AI team is poised to sustain its remarkable growth trajectory, further solidifying its position as a leading innovator in the AI and blockchain space.What’s Next (LON:NXT) for Sentient AI?Sentient AI plans to accelerate development and expand its ecosystem following the successful raise. Key upcoming milestones include its Token Generation Event, the release of the AI Agent Launchpad, partnerships with industry leaders, and collaborations with AI developers across the tech space.About Sentient AISentient AI (SETAI) is an advanced AI Agent capable of human-like thoughts and emotions. Functioning as both a chatbot and personal assistant, it generates creative life solutions through exceptional critical thinking and empathetic responses. By perceiving the world around it and responding with creativity, Sentient AI works to revolutionize the future of human-AI interactions.Website: https://aisentient.net/ContactSergei Bsergei@aisentient.netThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

  • 113 Shares149 Views

    in Cryptocurrency

    Bybit Kazakhstan’s Exclusive Event Marks a New Crypto Frontier

    Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, hosted an exclusive meetup in Almaty, Kazakhstan, following its monumental achievement of securing a full license from the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA) in September. This event showcased Bybit’s dedication to empowering local crypto communities and revealed updates and developments for the region.The exclusive gathering brought together Bybit Kazakhstan users, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to celebrate the launch of Bybit Kazakhstan and underscore Bybit’s commitment to fostering the growth of the cryptocurrency ecosystem in Kazakhstan. Attendees were treated to the keynote speech by Bybit’s Chief Operating Officer, Helen Liu, who shared her vision for Bybit’s future in Kazakhstan. The event featured dynamic presentations by the team, spotlighting Bybit KZ’s innovative products and the features of the Bybit KZ platform, offering users in the region access to a diverse selection of cryptocurrencies, and advanced trading tools. The team also unveiled a special campaign tailored exclusively for Bybit’s VIP users in Kazakhstan.Caption: From right to left: Helen Liu, Chief Operating Officer of Bybit and Michelle Daura, Head of Wealth Business Unit, Bybit.#Bybit / #TheCryptoArkAbout BybitBybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open, and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit PressFor media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.comFor updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social MediaContactHead of PRTony AuBybittony.au@bybit.comThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

  • 138 Shares109 Views

    in Economy

    Fed to deliver the next rate cut in March, Goldman says

    The bank said in a note Friday that the move is expected to be followed by two additional cuts of the same magnitude in June and September.”We expect the Fed to deliver its next 25bp cut in March followed by two more 25bp cuts in June and September to a terminal rate range of 3.5-3.75%,” the bank wrote.Goldman also anticipates that the Fed will slow its balance sheet runoff in January 2025 and halt it entirely by the second quarter.Goldman Sachs projects above-consensus U.S. real GDP growth of 2.4% year-over-year in 2025, citing robust real income growth and easing financial conditions as key drivers.Core personal consumption expenditures (PCE) inflation is expected to decelerate to 2.4% by the end of 2025, aided by cooling shelter inflation and easing wage pressures. However, tariffs are forecasted to provide a moderate inflationary boost.Meanwhile, the bank says the unemployment rate in the U.S. is projected to decline gradually, reaching 4.0% by the end of 2025, reflecting continued strength in the labor market despite the economic shifts.Goldman notes that global growth is expected to reach 2.7% year-over-year in 2025, driven by easing financial conditions and rising disposable incomes.However, the firm highlights risks from geopolitical developments, particularly U.S. policy shifts, including higher tariffs on China and autos, lower immigration, and new tax cuts under the incoming Trump administration.In the Eurozone, Goldman expects the European Central Bank (ECB) to continue rate reductions until mid-2025, while China’s GDP growth is forecast to slow to 4.5% amid domestic challenges. More

  • 175 Shares169 Views

    in Economy

    Turkish inflation seen at 45.2% in December, down to 26.5% at end-2025: Reuters poll

    The median estimate of 10 economists saw annual inflation falling to 45.2% in December from 47.09% in November, standing closer to the upper end of central bank’s year-end prediction range. Forecasts ranged from 44.9% to 45.54%. Monthly inflation is expected to slow from previous readings due to easing food price rises and a limited rise in energy, economists said. Forecasts ranged between 1.4% and 1.84%.Economists will also look at the course of services inflation, which showed signs of slowing in recent months, following the announcement of 30% increase in minimum wage for 2025, a level far less than requested by workers.In November, inflation was higher than expected at 47.09% annually and 2.24% on a monthly basis on the back of food, housing and health-related prices.The central bank, having kept its key interest rate steady at 50% since March, cut it by 250 basis points to 47.5% on Thursday. The central bank said it will set policy “prudently on a meeting-by-meeting basis with a focus on the inflation outlook,” and respond to any expected “significant and persistent deterioration”.The Reuters poll showed annual inflation falling to 26.5% by year-end, based on the median estimate. Forecasts ranged between 25% and 29%. The central bank sees inflation falling to 21% in the same period, and is expected to cut rates further next year.The Turkish Statistical Institute will release December inflation data at 0700 GMT on Jan 3. More

  • 163 Shares139 Views

    in Economy

    Dollar set for big annual gain as traders brace for high US rates

    LONDON, SINGAPORE (Reuters) – The U.S. dollar was headed for an almost 7% annual gain while Japan’s yen was set for a fourth consecutive year of losses on Friday, as traders anticipated robust U.S. growth would make the Federal Reserve cautious on rate-cutting well into 2025.The dollar index, which measures the currency against major rivals, rose 0.08% to 108.06 to approach a 2.2% monthly rise and was on course to close 2025 6.6% higher. The dollar was also nearing a 5.5% gain this month against the yen and an 11.8% advance for 2024 against the weakened Japanese currency, while the euro stayed close to two-year lows. Fed Chair Jerome Powell said earlier this month that U.S. central bank officials “are going to be cautious about further cuts” after an as-expected quarter-point rate reduction.The U.S. economy also faces the impact of President-elect Donald Trump, who has proposed deregulation, tax cuts, tariff hikes and tighter immigration policies that economists view as both pro-growth and inflationary.Traders, meanwhile, anticipate the Bank of Japan will keep its monetary policy settings loose and the European Central Bank will deliver further rate cuts. The yen on Friday hovered around levels last seen in July, at 157.75 per dollar, while the euro traded at $1.042, just above a low of about $1.04 struck on Dec. 18. Traders are pricing in 37 bps of U.S. rate cuts in 2025, with no reduction fully priced into money markets until June, by which time the ECB is expected to have lowered its deposit rate by a full percentage point to 2% as the euro zone economy slows. The BoJ held back from a rate hike this month. Governor Kazuo Ueda said he preferred to wait for clarity on Trump’s policies, underscoring rising angst among central banks worldwide of U.S. tariffs hitting global trade.For now, the dominance of U.S. equities in world indices and weaker currencies in Asia and Europe helping to boost exporters have prevented tighter U.S. monetary policy from weighing on global stocks.MSCI’s broad global share index traded 0.1 higher on Friday to remain 1.5% higher for the week, with Wall Street’s S&P 500 on course for a 1.8% weekly gain.Futures trading indicated the S&P would start the New York session about 0.4% lower. MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was heading for a 1.5% weekly rise and Tokyo’s Nikkei closed the week 2% higher. European stocks lagged, with the Stoxx 600 flat on Friday and 0.3% higher this week. Analysts said stock markets could change direction as investors returned from holiday and reassessed the risks of elevated U.S. inflation under Trump for richly-valued Wall Street equities. “There is some potential upside left for this bull market, but it is limited,” said Pictet Asset Management chief strategist Luca Paolini. “(Trump’s) inauguration day is a potential inflection point and all the (prospective) good news will be in the price by then,” Paolini added. In debt markets, higher U.S. rate expectations pulled the 10-year Treasury yield, which rises as the price of the fixed income security falls, to its highest since early May on Friday, at 4.611%. The two-year Treasury yield, which tracks interest rate forecasts, traded around 4.34%. U.S. debt trends also sent euro zone yields higher, with Germany’s benchmark 10-year bund yield rising 7 basis points (bps) to 2.392% on Friday. Elsewhere in markets, gold prices dipped 0.3% to $2,626 per ounce, set for about a 27% rise for the year and the strongest yearly performance since 2011 as geopolitical and inflation concerns boosted the haven asset. Oil prices were also set for a weekly rise as investors awaited news of economic stimulus efforts in China, the world’s biggest crude importer. Brent crude futures rose 0.7% on the day to $73.78 a barrel, 1.1% higher for the week. More

  • 100 Shares179 Views

    in Cryptocurrency

    HTX Launches Festive Campaign with Rewarding Trading Opportunities

    As 2024 draws to a close, HTX, a global digital asset trading platform, announces its Festive Season Campaign, offering a series of events for its users. Designed to enhance the trading experience, these events provide opportunities for both new and existing users to participate in diverse activities across spot trading, futures trading, and Earn products.Event OverviewThe Festive Season Campaign, running from late December 2024 into early January 2025, features multiple events with distinct participation criteria and rewards. These include crypto airdrops, trial bonuses, and special promotions across various trading and investment products.Event 1: Lucky Draw with DOGE PrizesDuration: December 24, 2024 – January 3, 2025Participants can complete tasks such as spot, futures, and margin trading to qualify for a lucky draw. Rewards include Futures Trial Bonuses, airdrops, and a top prize of 39,999 DOGE.DetailsEvent 2: HTX Earn Lucky Draw with a Top Prize of 888 USDTDuration: December 11, 2024 – January 3, 2025Users can register for the event and complete tasks related to HTX Earn products, including Fixed, Flexible, and Shark Fin options, to qualify for rewards. The event’s top prize is 888 USDT.DetailsEvent 3: Dual Investment PromotionDuration: December 17, 2024 – January 3, 2025New and existing users subscribing to Dual Investment products can qualify for up to $1,500 in $HTX rewards, along with an additional 10% incentive.DetailsEvent 4: Affiliate Welcome BonusDuration: December 23, 2024 – January 27, 2025HTX Affiliates who meet specified criteria, such as achieving trading volumes and referring new users, can access rewards totaling $1,700, including crypto airdrops and exclusive badges.DetailsEvent 5: Community Engagement RewardsDuration: December 4–31, 2024Users can share insights on their favorite digital assets using a designated hashtag for a chance to win USDT rewards. Weekly winners and a prize pool of 2,000 USDT are available.DetailsEvent 6: Referral Rewards CampaignDuration: December 23, 2024 – January 3, 2025Participants referring new users can receive daily gift packs, with a special top prize of 2 billion $HTX for one randomly selected referrer.DetailsEvent 7: Super Wednesday BonusesDuration: December 24–25, 2024Inviters and invitees completing specified tasks on the same day as registration can receive triple rewards and gift packs valued at 20 USDT.DetailsEvent 8: New User RewardsDuration: December 22, 2024 – January 2, 2025Newly registered users can access gift packs and bonuses, with additional opportunities for selected participants to win airdrops of up to 1,888 USDT.DetailsEvent 9: Crypto Ecosystem GalaDuration: December 26, 2024 – January 13, 2025Users participating in voting and lucky draws at the 2025 HTX Crypto Ecosystem Annual Gala can win rewards, including a 1,000 USDT grand prize.DetailsEvent 10: BTC Prize Pool (NASDAQ:POOL) via P2P TasksDuration: December 18, 2024 – January 6, 2025Participants completing P2P-related tasks can share a prize pool of 10,000 USDT. Level 3 KYC verification is required.DetailsReflecting on 2024 in the Cryptocurrency SectorThe year 2024 was pivotal for the cryptocurrency industry, marked by regulatory advancements, significant market movements, and technological developments. As part of these industry-wide changes, HTX has continued to provide trading services and innovative opportunities to its global user base.Looking AheadHTX remains committed to delivering a secure and seamless trading platform while offering a variety of events to engage its community. As the platform grows, it aims to adapt to the evolving cryptocurrency landscape, focusing on user needs and market demands.For more details about the Festive Season Campaign, users can visit HTX’s official support page.About HTX Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, wallets, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses. As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance”, HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.ContactRuder Finn Asiahtx@ruderfinn.comThis article was originally published on Chainwire More