Cryptocurrency

As 2025 unfolds, HTX, the world’s leading digital asset exchange, has released its latest report, HTX 2024 Global Web3 Blockchain Ecosystem Review and 2025 Outlook, which provides forward-looking insights into the development prospects of the crypto industry. The year 2024 marked a significant chapter in the history of the crypto industry, characterized by continuous breakthroughs in blockchain technology, surges in Bitcoin price, and a gradually more open regulatory environment, with cryptocurrencies gaining increasing recognition from the mainstream.Key Sectors for 2025In the report, HTX highlighted five key sectors that showed encouraging progress last year and will continue to closely monitor these areas in 2025.Bitcoin EcosystemIn 2024, Bitcoin’s market dominance kept increasing, solidifying its position as the core asset, with spot ETFs acting as liquidity channels.As a result, further development of Bitcoin’s ecosystem and improvements in capital utilization efficiency are becoming increasingly important. Supported by favorable macroeconomic conditions and robust infrastructure, a potential increase in Bitcoin demand over the next two years is anticipated according to the team.InfrastructureInfrastructure remained a cornerstone in 2024’s crypto investments and funding. The synergy between capital and technology has driven the rapid development of Layer 1, Layer 2, and middleware projects, among others. Layer 1 solutions, in particular, now represent the focal point of technical development and exploration within the crypto space, and it is expected to remain a priority for development resources and capital investment in the future.Meme CoinsThe Meme coin sector emerged as a hotspot in 2024, fostering community consensus while integrating with fields like DeFi and GameFi to create new use cases. As the crypto market environment grows favorable, more retail investors are expected to enter the market, positioning Meme projects as vital channels for capital inflows. AIIn 2024, the intersection of the Crypto and AI sectors has been driving the exploration of several segmented fields, with AI agents emerging as a particularly prominent area of focus. In the future, AI agents are expected to gradually become personal butlers and assistants for users, serving them with comprehensive capabilities. Over time, they may develop unique cultures and religions. This deep integration of AI and encryption technology is an innovative evolution that is unattainable within Web2 and cannot be achieved by Web3 relying solely on encryption technology.TON EcosystemAttributable to Telegram’s hundreds of millions of users and robust technical support, the TON ecosystem achieved significant milestones in various fields, pioneering the monetization of Web2 social applications through crypto. Moving into 2025, it needs to explore and find new business models to improve user retention and identify its next growth curve.Donald Trump Effect: Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Worth AnticipatingThe report also discusses the potential impact of crypto-friendly policies that could arise after Donald Trump takes office. Two important bills, the FIT21 Act and the Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Act, could pass more quickly thanks to him. The FIT21 Act aims to create a clear legal framework for token issuance and trading by classifying tokens as digital assets or digital commodities, transferring the regulatory responsibilities of many blockchain projects from the SEC to the CFTC, and introducing a safe harbor mechanism. This would help standardize and promote the healthy growth of the entire industry. The Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Act, aligning with Trump’s campaign promises, if passed, would mark Bitcoin’s transition from a niche asset to a nationally recognized reserve asset, greatly enhancing its legitimacy and recognition. It may also prompt other countries to adopt similar measures to further advance Bitcoin’s global recognition and application.The Act was submitted to Congress for deliberation on August 4, 2024, and referred to the Senate Banking Committee for review. Trump is well-positioned to push this bill through. Meanwhile, several U.S. states have already proposed their own Bitcoin Strategic Reserve bills. By 2025, Bitcoin as a strategic reserve may become a reality.Additionally, under Trump’s presidency, the SAB121 Act could be repealed, allowing traditional financial institutions to hold cryptocurrencies on their balance sheets, working to further accelerate the institutionalization of crypto assets and contributing to the overall maturity of the crypto market. The SEC’s application criteria for the Howey Test may also be relaxed, increasing the likelihood of more spot crypto ETFs being approved and more public listings of crypto companies.Meanwhile, the report also provides a comprehensive summary of 2024, looking back on the key events that had a major impact on the crypto industry while summing up what HTX had achieved over the last year. To learn more, users can visit: HTX 2024 Global Web3 Blockchain Ecosystem Review and 2025 OutlookAbout HTXFounded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.As a world-leading gateway to Web3, they harbor global capabilities that enable them to provide users with safe and reliable services.Their growth strategy – “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance”, underpins the commitment to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.ContactRuder Finn Asiahtx@ruderfinn.comThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

This historic moment at block 170 saw Satoshi transfer 10 BTC to computer scientist Hal Finney, making him the recipient of the Bitcoin first transaction. As was common in the early days, the transaction cost 0 BTC.This first transaction came three days after the first open-source Bitcoin client was released online. On Jan. 9, 2009, Satoshi Nakamoto released version 0.1 of the Bitcoin software. Finney was one of the first Bitcoin users, installing the software and participating in talks that would improve Bitcoin.On Jan. 10, 2009, Finney made history with the first-ever Bitcoin-related tweet: “running Bitcoin.”The Genesis Block, also known as Block 0, was mined by Satoshi Nakamoto on Jan. 3, 2009. Similar to subsequent Bitcoin blocks, it rewarded 50 BTC, but this can never be spent.Sixteen years later, Bitcoin has evolved into a global financial phenomenon with a current market valuation of about $1.84 trillion.At the time of writing, BTC was down 1.45% in the last 24 hours to $92,560 after setting all-time highs of $108,268 on Dec. 17.As regards the Bitcoin price, on the macroeconomic front, this week will give investors a clearer picture of the state of the economy following a blowout jobs report last week that sent equities falling. The stronger-than-expected nonfarm payroll report raised concerns that the Federal Reserve might proceed with caution moving forward, which casts doubt on further interest rate decreases.This article was originally published on U.Today More

Bitcoin fell 0.3% to $94,268.7 by 01:12 ET (06:125 GMT). Bitcoin prices fell sharply last week, having declined six out of the previous seven sessions as potential token sales by the U.S. government eroded sentiment towards crypto.Robust U.S. employment data released on Friday has backed the Federal Reserve’s forecast of fewer rate cuts this year. In December, the U.S. economy added 256,000 jobs, surpassing forecasts of 153,000, and the unemployment rate declined to 4.1% from 4.2% in November. This strong labor market performance suggests that the Fed may adopt a more cautious approach to monetary easing.Higher interest rates can exert downward pressure on Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, as they often lead to a stronger U.S. dollar and reduced liquidity in financial markets. Additionally, elevated Treasury yields have been associated with declines in Bitcoin’s price, with some analysts suggesting that sustained high yields could push Bitcoin’s value down to around $90,000.Another factor influencing Bitcoin’s market dynamics is the potential for government sales of seized cryptocurrencies. Last week, media reports emerged saying that the Department of Justice had received court approval to sell about $6.5 billion worth of Bitcoin confiscated from the Silk Road black market. The U.S. government has previously liquidated Bitcoin assets acquired through law enforcement actions, and the possibility of future sales could introduce additional supply into the market, potentially impacting prices. This also likely opposes the idea of a strategic Bitcoin reserve under the Donald Trump administration, further weighing on the token.In the broader cryptocurrency market, Bitcoin’s performance continues to influence other digital assets. World no.2 crypto Ether fell 1.6% to $3,229.02.Bucking the trend, world no.3 crypto XRP rose 3.8% to $2.5139.Solana fell 1.3%, and Polygon declined 4.8%, while Cardano slumped 6.2%. Among meme tokens, Dogecoin lost 3.2%. More

The next important resistance levels to keep an eye on if the bullish momentum continues are $2.50 and $2.70. With a successful push above these levels, XRP might aim for $3.00, a psychological barrier that might pique investors’ interest once more. The breakout volume is noteworthy but not yet explosive, indicating that although the breakout is legitimate, more buying pressure could help the rally gain more traction.With an RSI of 59 right now, there is still opportunity for more upside before the market becomes overbought. If XRP is unable to maintain its position above $2.30, it may retest the descending trendline, which is currently serving as support at about $2.20. But if this level is broken, the bullish scenario may be invalidated and the price may move toward the $2.00 level, which is in line with the 100 EMA. All things considered, XRP’s breakout paves the way for a possible bullish rally with $3.00 serving as the crucial long-term target.To verify the strength of this breakout, traders should keep a careful eye on volume and support levels. With the technical structure suggesting expansion, XRP might be preparing for its next significant move.Right now, SHIB’s price is trading close to $0.0000200, just above the 200 EMA. By serving as a strong support area, this level has stopped a more severe sell-off. But the neckline of the pattern, which is at about $0.0000215, is still crucial. In line with previous demand zones, a confirmed breakdown below this level might lead to a strong move toward the next important support at $0.0000180.Immediate resistance on the upside is the $0.0000225 level. If this level is broken, the bearish pattern may be deemed invalid, allowing SHIB to retest $0.0000250. It would take significant buying pressure to break through this resistance level, which is in line with the 50 EMA.Volume analysis shows that there isn’t much bullish momentum, which makes the current pattern even more alarming. The RSI is also close to 45, indicating neutral conditions with potential for declines if sellers take control.SHIB’s next move will be largely determined by the price action around the neckline and 200 EMA, even though the head-and-shoulders pattern is not yet fully confirmed. Because a break in either direction could result in significant price movement, traders should keep a careful eye on these levels. For the time being, it is advised to exercise caution and to manage risk around these crucial levels.The absence of notable price movement contrasts sharply with the more dynamic performance of other crypto market assets. Bitcoin has not been able to draw in traders or bolster confidence in a possible breakout because of this muted activity. The price of Bitcoin is consolidating below the 50 EMA, a crucial resistance level close to $97,000, according to the daily chart.For there to be any possibility of an upward trend, this level must be broken. The $87,700 support level, which corresponds to the 100 EMA, is still a safeguard against further declines. A longer decline toward the 200 EMA at $78,000 might be in store if Bitcoin breaks below this.Although the RSI is currently at 45, indicating neutral sentiment, it also shows that Bitcoin does not have the momentum necessary for a significant move in either direction. Furthermore, the market’s below-average trading volumes support the idea that it is in a wait-and-see phase.This article was originally published on U.Today More

“The big question in my mind is whether Bitcoin will get one more dump (or more lengthy congestive chop) before the pump. Remember, markets generally do not sour until retail traders get worn out,” Brandt wrote.The veteran trader’s use of the phrase “congestive chop” might refer to a phase of range-bound trading in which prices oscillate within a narrow range, frustrating both bulls and bears.Will Bitcoin experience another “dump” or a prolonged consolidation before the next big pump? According to Brandt, the answer lies in the behavior of retail traders.According to Brandt, markets do not “sour” until retail participants lose patience. In the coming days, eyes will be on where Bitcoin trends next as well as the behavior of retail traders. If the answer to Brandt’s question is yes, this might imply that Bitcoin’s next significant rally might just be around the corner — but only after a little more pain.BTC rebounded to highs of $95,862 on Friday, which is close to where it is presently consolidating. At the time of writing, BTC was up 0.26% in the previous 24 hours, reaching $94,639. Since Saturday, the BTC price has moved in a narrow range of $93,670 to $94,983.While expectations remain on Bitcoin price, Bitcoin analyst Willy Woo has warned crypto market participants to exercise caution in the coming months, with further profit-taking expected in the near term.”Risk is peaking for the first time in this cycle, and there’s a ton of profit in coins that have been selling and plenty more profit-taking to go before we are properly reset,” Woo wrote in a recent X post, noting that although Bitcoin sentiment seems “uber bullish,” market participants should opt for a more “cautious approach” in the coming months.This article was originally published on U.Today More

On-chain analytics platform IntoTheBlock highlighted this key fact in a recent tweet while noting a trend that has become apparent in recent weeks.IntoTheBlock posted a chart alongside its tweet demonstrating the trend of MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin buys since August 2020. Notably, the year 2024 saw a sharp upsurge in MicroStrategy Bitcoin buys. However, in recent weeks, specifically since late December, this trend has slowed.In 2024 alone, MicroStrategy purchased 258,320 BTC for $22.07 billion, or almost $85,450 per BTC. As of Jan. 5, 2025, MicroStrategy holds 447,470 BTC acquired for about $27.97 billion, or almost $62,503 per Bitcoin.According to IntoTheBlock, this $101 million buy “continues a pattern of smaller, yet strategic, acquisitions.”MicroStrategy had previously purchased nearly $1 billion in BTC over the weeks of November and December, but the purchases have been smaller in recent weeks, even as BTC price has declined from record highs. With MicroStrategy well ahead of its capital goals, this is not a cause for concern.MicroStrategy has bought Bitcoin for nine consecutive weeks, reflecting a trend of smaller yet strategic acquisitions as co-founder and chairman Michael Saylor aims to advance its Bitcoin holding strategy.At the start of January, MicroStrategy announced its plans to raise $2 billion through one or more offerings of perpetual preferred stock, which would be senior to its class A common stock, in the first quarter of 2025.This article was originally published on U.Today More

Following a successful mainnet launch and multiple oversubscribed launchpad sales, Koii Network ($KOII) begins trading on Gate.io and MEXC, bringing the World’s Biggest Supercomputer to the global market.The network reports over 100,000 active computing nodes processing approximately 185.1 terabytes of data daily, positioning Koii as a key participant in the decentralized physical infrastructure (DePIN) sector.Koii Launches on Gate.io with Special GiveawayTo mark its exchange listing, Koii Network has partnered with Gate.io for a promotional giveaway. Users who register through a designated referral link can participate in a reward pool totaling $50,000 worth of $KOII tokens. More details are available here: https://www.gate.io/signup?ch=signupKOII After its January 2nd mainnet launch and following the exchange listings, Koii will activate its cross-chain capabilities through the partnership with Allbridge, enabling seamless token transfers across multiple blockchains. The network will also introduce KOII token staking, allowing token holders to further participate in securing and growing the world’s largest community-powered computing infrastructure.Trading Details:Koii Network has transformed 100,000+ computers into the World’s Biggest Supercomputer Powered by People. Already processing more data daily than most blockchain networks handle monthly, Koii makes advanced computing accessible to everyone while ensuring participants are fairly rewarded for their contributions.ContactEna PopovskaKoii Networkena@koii.networkThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

Blockchain data tracker Whale Alert spotted 10 separate Bitcoin high-value transactions, with BTC being moved between unknown wallets and major exchanges, mostly involving Kraken, but also including Binance and Robinhood (NASDAQ:HOOD).The transactions, which total over $903 million BTC moved, are as follows: 620 BTC worth $58,495,235; 888 BTC worth $83,875,225 and 1,027 BTC worth $96,745,111 were transferred from Kraken to unknown wallets; 1,164 BTC worth $109,706,616 were transferred between unknown wallets.In other transactions, 600 BTC worth $56,816,922 was moved from Robinhood to an unknown wallet; 999 BTC worth $93,643,885 was sent from an unknown wallet to Binance. 640 BTC worth $60,789,981 and 775 BTC worth $72,929,703 were transferred from Kraken to unknown wallets. Then, 1,881 BTC worth $176,504,307 and 1,003 BTC worth $94,116,863 were moved from unknown wallets to the Kraken crypto exchange.Deposits to exchanges might reveal intent to sell while withdrawals might imply buying. Over-the-counter trades that occur outside of crypto exchanges might be another possibility. However, the exact reasons behind these movements remain unknown.Even at prices roughly 12% below ATH, on-chain analytics platform Glassnode noticed that Bitcoin Long-Term Holders (LTHs) are still distributing, albeit at a slower rate. However, the 30-day percent change in LTH supply indicates that the rate of distribution has most certainly peaked, hitting historical cycle highs.In previous cycles, price continued to rise even after LTH distribution peaked, implying that a peak in distribution does not always coincide with an immediate macro top.Glassnode stated that Bitcoin LTH supply in loss is at 0%, suggesting that nearly all Long-Term Holders are still in profit. Historically, when LTHs face persistent losses that escalate in severity, it has typically heralded the true end of a cycle; however, this is not the case right now.This article was originally published on U.Today More