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    Bitcoin price today: steadies at $97k with eyes on CPI data

    The world’s largest cryptocurrency remained squarely within a $90,000 to $100,000 trading range established over the past few weeks, amid cooling optimism over friendly regulations under incoming President Donald Trump. Broader crypto prices clocked heavy losses, as risk appetite worsened this week on heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Asia. Crypto markets were also subject to profit-taking after a strong run through November. Bitcoin rose 0.6% to $97,483.5 by 00:53 ET (05:53 GMT). Focus on Wednesday was squarely on upcoming consumer price index inflation data, which is expected to factor into the Federal Reserve’s plans for interest rates. The reading comes just a week before a Fed meeting, where the central bank is widely expected to cut rates by 25 basis points.But markets have turned more uncertain over the long-term outlook for interest rates, amid recent signs of sticky inflation. Expansionary and protectionist policies under Trump are also expected to underpin inflation, keeping rates higher in the long term.High rates bode poorly for speculative assets such as crypto, given that they limit the amount of liquidity available for speculation. MicroStrategy Incorporated (NASDAQ:MSTR)- the biggest corporate holder of Bitcoin- rose on Tuesday amid speculation that the stock could be added to the Nasdaq 100- a move that could spur further upside in the stock.Microstrategy surged about 450% in value this year as its Bitcoin bet paid off, with the company continuing to issue more debt and buy more Bitcoin.Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas said the firm’s addition to the Nasdaq 100 could invite net buying of at least $2.1 billion Microstrategy shares by exchange-traded funds to gain exposure. Among broader crypto prices, most major altcoins were a mixed bag on Wednesday after being walloped by heavy profit-taking in recent sessions. But most tokens were still trading substantially higher for the year.World no.2 crypto Ether fell 1.1% to $3,661.36. XRP steadied at $2.3368 after rebounding from a 10-day low in the prior session. Solana rose 1.3%, while Cardano and Polygon were flat. Among meme tokens, Dogecoin fell 3.4%.  More

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    Aptos Foundation Expands Global Footprint with New Abu Dhabi Office

    UAE Offers Gateway to Innovative, High-Growth Developers, Institutions and InvestorsAptos Foundation, a global blockchain leader dedicated to supporting the development of the Aptos ecosystem and Web3 worldwide, is proud to announce it will be opening a new office in ADGM, Abu Dhabi’s leading international financial centre. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in Aptos Foundation’s mission to build a robust global blockchain ecosystem.The Abu Dhabi office will serve as a hub for Aptos Foundation’s activities in the region, focusing on fostering partnerships and supporting projects designed to grow the Aptos ecosystem.The decision to establish a presence in Abu Dhabi reflects the UAE’s position as one of the most forward-thinking markets globally when it comes to blockchain and Web3 adoption. The UAE has cultivated an environment that attracts visionary institutions and builders, supported by government policies that actively promote Web3 initiatives. By setting up operations in ADGM, Aptos Foundation will engage directly with these forward-thinking builders and institutions, creating new opportunities to collaborate and expand the Aptos ecosystem. This expansion is a continuation of Aptos Foundation’s commitment to working with local stakeholders and playing an active role in accelerating blockchain adoption across the region.About Aptos FoundationAptos Foundation is dedicated to supporting the development of the Aptos protocol, decentralized network and ecosystem and driving engagement with the Aptos ecosystem. By unlocking a blockchain with seamless usability, Aptos Foundation aims to bring the benefits of decentralization to the masses. For more information about Aptos Foundation and its initiatives, users can visit: www.aptosfoundation.orgContactCommunications LeadHannah NoyesAptos Labshannah@aptoslabs.comThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Bitcoin (BTC): $100,000 Not Forgotten, Dogecoin (DOGE) Loses It, Shiba Inu’s (SHIB) Catastrophic Drop: What’s Next?

    A major factor in this setback was the liquidations. Positions with excessive leverage, especially in Ethereum and Bitcoin, have compelled the market to adjust. A difficult environment for additional upward movement has been created by the selling pressure from leveraged longs, as evidenced by the $172 million in Bitcoin liquidations alone. The dangers of unmanageable leverage on cryptocurrency markets are highlighted by this type of liquidation cascade.Technically speaking, Bitcoin is currently receiving support at its 26 EMA, a crucial level that frequently serves as a rebound point during corrections. Nonetheless, the inability to hold above $100,000 or retest indicates a lack of bullish conviction. Compared to the previous sharp rallies, the trading volume is still lower, indicating less buying zeal.The overall structure of Bitcoin remains bullish in spite of these difficulties. Instead of indicating a full reversal, the consolidation pattern that is developing on the chart indicates that Bitcoin is taking a break. If tested, the important support levels of $94,000 and $85,000 could act as the foundation for a more robust recovery. The biggest obstacle on the resistance side is still $100,000, and a break above it might spur new momentum.Even though the road to $100,000 has been postponed for a while, it has not been forgotten. The current correction offers the market a chance to reset and forge a stronger base because it is a normal stage in the larger market cycle for Bitcoin. Investors will need to exercise patience while Bitcoin moves through this crucial stage. The ascending channel breakdown suggests that Dogecoin’s bullish rally may have petered out, at least temporarily. Additionally, volume trends point to waning interest, as trading activity is not sustaining additional upward movement. This decline is consistent with the larger crypto market correction, in which declines on a variety of assets have been facilitated by overleveraged positions and profit-taking.In terms of technical analysis, $0.31 and $0.27 are the next support levels to keep an eye on. Dogecoin needs to stay in these areas in order to prevent more losses and possibly regain its footing. Before focusing on higher targets like $0.45 or even $0.50, any recovery attempts must first overcome the $0.40 level, which is currently acting as a resistance. Dogecoin’s recent actions underline how vulnerable it is to fluctuations in market sentiment and speculative trading. Massive rallies have historically been fueled by its community-driven nature, but the current climate necessitates caution. Uncertainty about DOGE’s immediate course is increased by the need for correction on the larger market. For the time being, traders and owners of Dogecoin should keep a careful eye on the main levels of support and resistance. A more substantial decline could be possible if $0.31 is not held, but a recovery above $0.40 could reignite bullish optimism. As usual, navigating the erratic nature of this well-known meme coin will require perseverance and a well-defined plan. SHIB is currently trading at about $0.00002648, and its failure to maintain recent highs underscores the growing investor concerns. The recent consolidation pattern on the chart has clearly broken down, indicating a loss of momentum. Notably, SHIB has fallen below $0.00002700, a crucial support level that served as a bull market stronghold. This failure raises the possibility of additional downside pressure if bulls are unable to regain control in a timely manner. SHIB is more vulnerable, as volume analysis shows declining buying interest. The asset may be under more pressure if this decline in momentum encourages more selling activity. The next key support levels to keep an eye on given the current trajectory are $0.00002430 and $0.00002200. If these levels are breached, the decline may be even more severe and may even test the $0.00002000 threshold. All is not lost for SHIB, though.After significant corrections, the asset has historically demonstrated the ability to recover quickly, frequently propelled by speculative trading and community-driven hype. In order to restore bullish momentum, SHIB needs to recover above $0.00002800 and continue to rise steadily, bolstered by rising volume.This article was originally published on U.Today More

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    Pepeto ICO Hits $2 Million Milestone, Showcasing Strong Community Support

    Pepeto: A Pioneering Platform for Memecoin Development and AdoptionPepeto is carving its niche in the cryptocurrency landscape by blending an engaging narrative with practical utility. Inspired by the concept of six iconic documents—P, E, P, E, T, and O—the project has built a strong following, with active engagement across its social media platforms. Beyond its story, Pepeto is positioned as a central hub for frog-themed and memecoin projects. With features enabling seamless trading, bridging, and token listing, the platform aims to support the next wave of innovative projects anticipated in the upcoming market cycle.Dynamic Staking Rewards System: Pepeto APY Now at 709%Pepeto’s staking program offers competitive rewards, with the current annual percentage yield (APY) at 709%. This rate reflects the dynamic nature of the system, which adjusts rewards based on the number of participants staking $PEPETO tokens. While the rate has decreased with increased participation, it remains competitive, demonstrating the platform’s commitment to incentivizing early adopters.Engineered for Security, Transparency, and Industry LeadershipPepeto’s zero-fee exchange is built to set a new benchmark in how memecoins are traded and adopted. By offering a streamlined platform, the exchange allows token holders to list their projects with ease via a straightforward submission process on the official website. This initiative supports the growth of emerging tokens, offering them a platform to thrive. With an emphasis on accessibility, innovation, and value, Pepeto’s exchange plays a pivotal role in enabling visibility and liquidity for memecoin projects, positioning itself as a vital component of the anticipated 2025 memecoin market surge.What sets Pepeto apart is not just its narrative or staking rewards but its foundation of robust industry practices. Built on the Ethereum blockchain, the project features carefully designed tokenomics, competitive staking incentives, and a long-term growth strategy. This meticulous approach highlights Pepeto’s commitment to fostering sustainability and supporting a thriving ecosystem.Pepeto’s commitment to security and transparency is evident, having successfully passed rigorous audits by SolidProof and Coinsult. These checks ensure the project offers top-tier security and includes safeguards against potential risks like rug-pulls. Additionally, Pepeto’s tokenomics are thoughtfully structured to balance supply, enhance market liquidity, and allocate 30% of $PEPETO tokens for staking rewards after its official launch, solidifying its position as a sustainable and investor-focused project.PepetoSwap: Advancing Cross-Chain Token InteroperabilityPepeto is preparing to introduce PepetoSwap, a utility designed to facilitate token interoperability across blockchains. This platform includes a bridge for cross-chain token swaps and an exchange that supports a broad range of tokens. By enabling seamless transactions and fostering accessibility, PepetoSwap aims to provide practical tools for users and token projects in the growing crypto ecosystem.The bridge utilizes advanced technology to lock tokens on one blockchain and mint equivalent wrapped tokens on another, enabling interoperability while maintaining security. Meanwhile, the Pepeto exchange empowers token owners to list their projects directly via the bridge section of the official website, fostering a collaborative and expansive ecosystem for memecoins and other tokens alike.About PepetoPepeto is a memecoin project designed to integrate cross-chain utility with community-driven development. Offering zero-fee trading, blockchain bridge functionality, and a staking rewards program, Pepeto seeks to combine accessibility with practical features. The project emphasizes interoperability and long-term value, fostering a dedicated user base through its ecosystem innovations and community-focused approach.DisclaimerThe official website for Pepeto is https://pepeto.io/ Be cautious of fraudulent websites attempting to exploit the project’s growing buzz. Always use the official platform.To learn more about Pepeto’s progress and upcoming features, users can visit https://pepeto.io/Official Website: https://pepeto.io/Social Media:This article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Microsoft shareholders reject Bitcoin balance sheet proposal

    On the day of Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT)’s annual meeting, shareholders voted against a proposal that would have prompted the company to consider adding Bitcoin to its balance sheet. The proposal, put forward by the National Center for Public Policy Research, suggested that in light of rampant inflation, corporations have a duty to protect their profits from debasement by diversifying their investments, potentially including assets like Bitcoin.The proposal highlighted the underperformance of traditional assets like US government securities and corporate bonds compared to Bitcoin’s significant appreciation. It cited Bitcoin’s 99.7% price increase over the past year and a 414% increase over five years, outpacing corporate bonds by a wide margin. The recommendation was to assess the inclusion of Bitcoin to safeguard shareholder value against inflation.Microsoft’s board opposed the proposal, explaining that the company’s management already conducts thorough evaluations of investable assets, including cryptocurrencies, to ensure liquidity and operational funding. The board emphasized the importance of stable and predictable investments for corporate treasury applications, considering the volatility of cryptocurrencies.The board further stated that Microsoft’s Global Treasury and Investment Services team continuously monitors trends and developments in cryptocurrencies to inform future decisions. According to the board, Microsoft has robust processes in place to manage and diversify its treasury, aiming for the long-term benefit of shareholders, making the proposed public assessment unnecessary.The rejection of the proposal indicates that Microsoft shareholders and the board are aligned in their cautious approach towards cryptocurrency as part of the company’s investment strategy. Despite the potential for higher returns, the company prioritizes stability and risk management in its asset allocation decisions.This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C. More

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    Shiro Neko Achieves $1 Billion Market Cap on Day One

    Shiro Neko Achieves Historic Milestone (WA:MMD) in the Memecoin MarketShiro Neko ($SHIRO) launched and reached a $1 billion market cap on its first day of trading. With this, the team aims to make $SHIRO a standout memecoin, redefining expectations for new launches in the space.Shiro Neko’s MetricsAfter its launch, Shiro Neko established a stable floor between $300 million and $400 million in market cap. This retracement can demonstrate confidence. Shiro Neko’s adoption metrics:Shiro Neko is designed to appeal to a broad audience, leveraging cultural relevance and strong community ties. The token’s name, which means “white cat” in Japanese.Unlike many tokens that rely solely on Twitter for growth, Shiro Neko’s strategy extends to other platforms, capturing retail interest in untapped spaces.Rising in the Cat Coin RankingsShiro Neko has already climbed to become the 4th largest cat coin by market cap, following $Popcat, $Mog, and $Mew.Ethereum MemecoinAccording to the team, the market has shifted back to Ethereum-based tokens. Shiro Neko is aims to be the forefront of Ethereum memecoins, combining a strong narrative, large community backing, and a subcategory within the memecoin space.Future PlansLooking ahead, Shiro Neko has several initiatives in the pipeline, including integration with Shibarium and a staking feature that will enable $NEKO holders to stake their tokens and potentially earn $SHIB or $BONE as rewards.Additionally, Shiro Neko is preparing to launch a charitable initiative, further enhancing its impact and community value.About Shiro NekoShiro Neko ($SHIRO) is a next-generation memecoin that builds on the cat-themed cryptocurrencies. Designed to capture interest, $SHIRO combines cultural significance with a compelling narrative, with a goal to set a new standard for memecoins.Users can visit the project’s official channels for more information on Shiro Neko and its progress.Website: https://www.shironeko.gg/X: https://x.com/shiroContactRobert O’NeillShiro Nekoinfo@shironeko.ggThis article was originally published on Chainwire More

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    Satoshi Nakamoto’s Bitcoin Statement Echoes 15 Years Later Amid Market Sell-off

    Rizzo wrote while sharing the historical statement on X: “Satoshi Nakamoto on the scarcity of Bitcoin at $0, exactly 15 years ago. Only 21 million.”The statement made by the Bitcoin founder reads thus: “(lost) coins can never be recovered. Since the effective circulation is reduced, all the remaining coins are worth slightly more, its the opposite of when a government prints money.”The statement dates back 15 years, believed to have been made on Dec. 10, 2009, when Bitcoin was worth $0, yet Satoshi foresaw the profound economic implications of a limited supply. The distinct nature of Bitcoin’s hard cap of 21 million coins draws from this concept of scarcity, and this differentiates Bitcoin from traditional fiat currencies that can be endlessly printed.As Bitcoin’s price faces pressure from a broader market sell-off, Satoshi’s statement remains relevant. The fixed supply remains a key driver of Bitcoin’s value, ensuring that its scarcity is preserved regardless of short-term price fluctuations.Bitcoin hit a record high of $104,000 on Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) on Dec. 5 but has struggled to stay above the six-figure barrier since. Bitcoin traded at $97,905, down 0.28% in the last 24 hours.According to CryptoQuant, the current market sell-off has elicited a strong response from institutional investors. As panic-selling occurs, mostly on platforms like Binance, with a higher number of small investors, U.S. institutional investors are embracing the opportunity to buy aggressively on exchanges like Coinbase.Amid the sell-off, Nakamoto’s early statements about scarcity and value resonate more than ever.This article was originally published on U.Today More

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    $100 Billion Crypto Catastrophe: What Even Happened?

    Such a precipitous decline is indicative of more general structural problems, mostly related to market-wide overleveraging. The main cryptocurrency at the heart of this turmoil has been Bitcoin. Its chart now indicates a critical correction phase, even though it previously showed resilience. The psychological $100,000 mark has proven to be a strong barrier, and Bitcoin was unable to maintain its advance above it. As whales start taking profits, the short-term bullish momentum has started to wane, further straining the asset. At least in the short term, the likelihood of a further decline has increased since Bitcoin is currently trading below important EMAs. The primary cause of this collapse is overleveraging. A total of $172 million of the $1.58 billion in liquidations over the last 24 hours are ascribed to Bitcoin alone, according to the liquidation heatmap. The bulk of these liquidations are due to short positions, which show that the market’s aggressive long positioning is encountering resistance. As prices decline, this imbalance intensifies volatility and sets off a chain reaction. Ethereum has also seen large liquidations; in a similar manner, $229 million was lost.Since assets like XRP, Solana and Dogecoin are also under downward pressure, the overall altcoin market is not doing any better. The current rally, which was driven by excessively optimistic market sentiment, is fragile, as this mass liquidation cycle highlights. A healthy correction is clearly needed, according to the market. Resetting overextended positions and creating a more solid basis for future expansion require this stage. In the short term, there will probably be more volatility as the market adjusts, even though the overall outlook for cryptocurrencies is still favorable.This article was originally published on U.Today More