Just wrapped up two milestone certifications via Binance Academy — diving deeper into the world of blockchain infrastructure and confidential computing.
🔹 Offchain Computing using TEE Coprocessors 🔹 Injective – The Layer 1 Blockchain Built for Finance
These two courses opened up a clearer vision of how next-gen blockchain technology will scale, secure data, and power real-world finance. Every step completed pushes me further into the future of decentralized innovation — and I’m excited for what comes next. 💛⚡
If you're into blockchain, Web3, scaling solutions or simply believe in the future of decentralized finance, you're in the right place. Let’s grow, learn and build this ecosystem together! 🌍🚀
👇 Drop a comment to connect — I'm always open to discussion & collaboration! 🔔 Follow me for more learning progress and insights.
🎉 Just completed the Blockchain Deep Dive Certificate from Binance Academy! In this highly volatile market, knowledge is the ultimate “weapon” to seize opportunities 💡
What do you think — is the current pullback just a short-term shakeout, or the signal of a new trend? 🤔 Let’s discuss, fam! 👇
BITCOIN MARKET UPDATE – Neutral Bias Ahead of Macro Data
The broader crypto market remains relatively neutral as traders await today’s U.S. jobs data and tomorrow’s CPI release. Volatility is expected to expand once macro clarity arrives, which is why positioning remains tactical rather than aggressive. Currently, I am still holding SOL and ETH long positions initiated yesterday, while maintaining swing shorts from last week on BTC, XRP, and JUP. Closing positions at this stage feels premature without confirmation from upcoming economic catalysts. Bitcoin Technical Overview (BTCUSDT – 1H) As discussed previously, Bitcoin delivered a short-term bounce from the local bull zone into nearby resistance. That reaction has now played out cleanly. Price is trading between key liquidity zones, creating two primary scenarios: Scenario 1 – Bullish Rotation (Long Setup) If BTC pulls back into the lower demand zone around $64,500–$65,000, this area could provide a technical reaction for a relief bounce. This zone aligns with previous support, liquidity sweep potential, and local structure demand. Scenario 2 – Bearish Continuation (Short Setup) If BTC pushes higher from current levels and approaches $69,000, watch for potential bearish divergence on lower timeframes. A rejection from that level could offer a technically structured short opportunity, particularly if momentum weakens into resistance. Until macro data is released, expect choppy conditions and liquidity hunts on both sides. Risk management remains critical in this environment. This article is published for informational and educational purposes only and reflects personal market observations. It is not investment advice. Investors should conduct their own research before making any financial decisions. We are not responsible for any investment outcomes. Follow for more structured crypto market updates and technical breakdowns. #BTC #CryptoNews
SEIUSD – At a Critical Turning Point The bad signs are clear: SEI has been in a strong downtrend since losing the 4H EMA200 around $0.30. The structure became even more bearish after breaking the key $0.10 support, accelerating the sell-off and confirming lower highs and lower lows. However, there’s a promising signal building. Price has landed exactly at the 10.10 scam wick lows, a historically reactive zone. At the same time, RSI is printing a strong triple-touch bullish divergence in the oversold area — momentum is weakening while price makes marginal new lows. That’s often how reversals begin. For a proper confirmation, SEI must: 1️⃣ Reclaim the 4H EMA200 2️⃣ Break and hold above $0.106 horizontal resistance If both conditions are met, a structural reversal toward $0.30 becomes highly probable. 📌 Long-term trade plan: Aggressive Buy: $0.075–0.082 Conservative Buy: After reclaiming $0.106 Stop Loss: Below $0.068 (invalidates divergence) TP1: $0.15 TP2: $0.22 TP3: $0.30 Risk remains high until confirmation, but R:R is becoming attractive at these levels. Follow for more high-probability setups and real market structure breakdowns. #SEI
Tom Lee Signals Another Potential V-Shaped Recovery for Ethereum as Staking Demand Hits Record High
Ethereum (ETH) may be approaching another pivotal moment, according to Fundstrat’s Head of Research, Tom Lee, who believes the second-largest cryptocurrency is positioning itself for a sharp V-shaped recovery despite recent market weakness. Speaking at a conference in Hong Kong on Wednesday, Lee addressed growing investor frustration following Ethereum’s prolonged correction. However, he emphasized that history suggests resilience rather than structural decline. “I understand many investors feel discouraged,” Lee stated. “But since 2018, Ethereum has fallen more than 50% on eight separate occasions. Each time, it formed a V-shaped bottom and fully recovered at nearly the same speed as the decline.” Historical Context: Eight Major Drawdowns Since 2018 Lee highlighted that Ethereum’s volatility is not new. In fact, sharp corrections have repeatedly defined its long-term growth trajectory. One notable example occurred last year when ETH declined approximately 64% between January and March before staging a full recovery. According to Lee, the current environment shares similarities with previous downturns seen in late 2018, late 2022, and April 2025. From his perspective, there has been no fundamental shift that would invalidate Ethereum’s broader thesis. Instead, he sees the recent pullback as part of the asset’s cyclical behavior. “This is not the time to panic about finding the exact bottom,” Lee noted. “If you’ve witnessed the correction, focus on opportunity rather than liquidation.” Technical Perspective: $1,890 as a Potential Bottom Zone Adding to the discussion, market analyst Tom DeMark of BitMine identified the $1,890 level as a potential bottoming zone. However, he suggested that price action could briefly dip below that threshold in what he described as a “breakdown retest” before stabilizing. Lee referred to this scenario as a “perfect bottom structure,” implying that short-term volatility does not necessarily contradict a broader recovery thesis. According to TradingView data, ETH dropped to $1,760 on February 6, only slightly above its 2025 low near $1,400. At the time of writing, Ethereum is trading around $1,970, struggling to sustain levels above $2,000 after experiencing a 37% decline over the past 30 days. Record Staking Demand Signals Long-Term Conviction While price performance has underwhelmed in recent months, on-chain metrics tell a different story. Data from ValidatorQueue shows that staking demand has reached an all-time high. The waiting period to activate a validator has extended to 71 days, with approximately 4 million ETH currently queued. Meanwhile, 30.3% of the total supply — equivalent to 36.7 million ETH — is now staked. This dynamic effectively reduces circulating supply and reinforces what some analysts describe as a “structural supply constraint.” A market commentator from Milk Road noted that nearly one-third of Ethereum’s supply is locked, generating a modest 2.83% APR yield. “Locking up roughly $74 billion worth of ETH during a market downturn suggests participants are not simply speculating,” the analyst stated. “It indicates long-term positioning rather than short-term trading.” Market Outlook: Volatility Remains, But Structural Signals Stay Intact Ethereum’s short-term trajectory remains uncertain as macroeconomic conditions and broader crypto sentiment continue to influence price action. However, proponents argue that historical recovery patterns, combined with record staking participation, may support the thesis that ETH is nearing a cyclical low. Investors are advised to conduct independent research and carefully assess their own risk tolerance before making financial decisions. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Follow for more market updates, in-depth crypto insights, and real-time analysis. #Ethereum #ETH #CryptoNews
Galaxy CEO Mike Novogratz: The Era of Pure Crypto Speculation Is Fading
The high-octane era of crypto speculation that once defined digital asset markets is gradually coming to an end, according to Galaxy Digital CEO Mike Novogratz. Speaking to CNBC on Tuesday, Novogratz argued that the industry is entering a new phase — one driven less by hype cycles and more by infrastructure, regulation, and real-world financial integration. For years, crypto markets were fueled by explosive narratives: DeFi summer, NFT mania, meme coin surges, and perpetual leverage cycles. But Novogratz believes the next chapter will look fundamentally different. Instead of chasing 10x returns in months, investors may need to adjust to lower yields tied to tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) and blockchain-based financial services operating at global scale. From Speculation to Infrastructure Novogratz described the transition as a shift from “narrative-driven speculation” to “crypto rails” powering financial services. In his view, blockchain networks are increasingly becoming settlement layers for traditional financial products — including equities, bonds, credit instruments, and structured yield products. The focus is moving toward tokenization — the process of representing real-world assets such as stocks, Treasuries, private credit, or real estate on-chain. While this unlocks efficiency, transparency, and 24/7 settlement, it does not necessarily deliver the extreme volatility-driven upside that earlier crypto cycles offered. “The speculative phase attracted massive participation,” Novogratz noted. “But when leverage unwinds and large cohorts of traders are wiped out, it takes time for new narratives to rebuild confidence.” Echoes of 2022 — But Without a Single Catalyst Novogratz compared the recent market drawdown to two distinct events: The November 2022 collapse following FTX’s bankruptcy, which triggered a deep liquidity crisis. The October 2025 crypto flash crash, which erased approximately $19 billion in derivatives value in a short period. Unlike FTX, the October sell-off did not revolve around a single corporate failure. Instead, it reflected structural fragility — leverage, crowded positioning, and rapid deleveraging across futures and options markets. Even without a headline shock, Bitcoin fell sharply. According to recent market data, BTC has declined more than 47% from its all-time high above $126,000 reached in October. It is currently trading around $66,551 and briefly dipped near $60,000 last week. Over the past seven days, Bitcoin has lost roughly 10%, with Ethereum posting similar declines. Major altcoins such as XRP and Solana recorded even steeper pullbacks during the same period. The takeaway, Novogratz suggests, is that crypto remains sensitive to liquidity cycles — but the drivers of volatility are evolving. Galaxy’s $100 Million Hybrid Hedge Fund Despite acknowledging the end of the “pure speculation era,” Novogratz emphasized that he remains constructive on the long-term outlook. Galaxy Digital recently launched a $100 million crypto hedge fund designed to balance exposure between digital assets and equities. The fund is expected to begin operations before the end of March. Under the proposed allocation framework: Up to 30% of assets may be invested directly in crypto tokens. The remainder will be allocated to equities of financial services firms positioned to benefit from digital asset adoption, regulatory clarity, and blockchain infrastructure growth. This hybrid approach reflects Galaxy’s thesis: future returns may increasingly come from companies building regulated financial products around crypto technology, rather than from token price appreciation alone. Tokenization: A Structural Shift Tokenization is emerging as a central theme in institutional crypto strategy. By placing stocks, bonds, and other assets on blockchain networks, issuers can reduce settlement friction, improve transparency, and potentially expand global access. However, Novogratz cautioned that tokenized equities and yield products will likely carry “a different yield structure” compared to the explosive growth rates that defined earlier crypto cycles. In other words, blockchain may modernize financial plumbing — but it does not magically increase the underlying cash flow of traditional assets. This signals a maturing market. Instead of volatility-driven gains, future growth may depend on adoption metrics, regulatory frameworks, and integration with global capital markets. A Market in Transition The broader crypto landscape appears to be recalibrating. Retail-driven leverage has declined from peak levels. Institutional participation continues, but with greater emphasis on compliance and risk management. Regulatory clarity in major jurisdictions is gradually shaping product design and capital allocation strategies. If Novogratz is correct, crypto’s next phase may resemble fintech evolution more than speculative mania. Infrastructure, custody, compliance, and tokenized capital markets could define the coming cycle. For traders accustomed to rapid momentum swings, the adjustment may feel uncomfortable. But for long-term participants, the institutionalization of crypto rails may represent a more sustainable foundation. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research before making any investment decisions. Follow for more crypto market insights and institutional trend analysis. #BTC #CryptoNews
Japan at 1%: The 80% Rate Hike Bet That Could Quietly Reshape Bitcoin’s Liquidity Cycle
Bank of America Securities expects the Bank of Japan (BoJ) to raise its policy rate from 0.75% to 1.00% at the April 27–28 meeting. According to recent swap market pricing cited in BoJ minutes, traders are assigning roughly an 80% probability to that outcome. A 25-basis-point move may appear modest. But in global macro terms, Japan returning to a 1% policy rate — a level last seen in the mid-1990s — carries symbolic and structural weight. The real debate is not about the number itself. It is about whether a shift toward policy normalization could accelerate the unwinding of yen-funded carry trades, tightening global liquidity and pressuring risk assets, including Bitcoin. Why 1% in Japan Matters More Than It Sounds Japan has anchored the global funding system for decades. Ultra-low rates and abundant liquidity made the yen one of the most popular funding currencies in the world. Investors could borrow cheaply in yen and deploy capital into higher-yielding assets abroad — U.S. Treasuries, emerging market debt, equities, tech stocks, and increasingly, crypto derivatives. In August 2024, a sharp appreciation in the yen triggered by policy surprises and positioning stress led to rapid deleveraging. Bitcoin and Ethereum both dropped close to 20% within hours. The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) later described the episode as a classic forced deleveraging cascade: margin calls spread across futures, options, and cross-collateralized structures, with crypto acting as a liquid source of collateral. The lesson was clear. Bitcoin may trade independently over long horizons, but during liquidity shocks it behaves like a high-beta risk asset. 1995 vs. Today: Similar Headline, Different Mechanics On April 14, 1995, the BoJ set its discount rate at 1.00%. Days later, the U.S. dollar plunged to 79.75 yen, prompting coordinated central bank intervention. Within months, rates were cut again, ushering in decades of ultra-loose policy. That period followed the 1994 “Great Bond Massacre,” when surging global yields erased an estimated $1.5 trillion in bond market value. Currency volatility, rate shocks, and policy uncertainty combined into a destabilizing mix. However, today’s macro backdrop differs in key ways. The Federal Reserve’s policy rate remains significantly higher than Japan’s. Even if the BoJ hikes to 1%, the interest rate differential with the U.S. would still be substantial. Structurally, the carry trade logic remains intact — at least on paper. What changes is not the absolute rate level, but expectations about the future path. Markets move on trajectories, not single data points. If investors begin pricing a sustained tightening cycle in Japan, the yen could appreciate further, compressing carry profitability. How Carry Trades Unwind — and Why Volatility Is the Trigger Carry trade returns equal the interest differential minus currency appreciation in the funding currency. For example, borrowing in yen at 0.75% to earn 3.5% in U.S. assets produces a 2.75% spread. But if the yen strengthens by 2.75%, that spread disappears. With leverage, small currency moves become amplified. At 10x leverage, a 1% move in the yen can translate into a 10% hit to equity — enough to trigger forced selling. The real systemic risk is not the hike itself. It is a surprise combined with crowded positioning and thin liquidity. In 2024, the BoJ’s hawkish tone exceeded expectations. The yen spiked. Volatility-control strategies reduced exposure. Derivatives positions were closed. Cross-currency basis spreads widened. Bitcoin, often used as liquid collateral within leveraged portfolios, fell alongside tech equities. The key variable is volatility in USD/JPY, not simply the policy rate. Capital Repatriation and U.S. Treasuries Japan holds roughly $1.2 trillion in U.S. Treasuries, making it one of the largest foreign creditors of the United States. If Japanese government bond (JGB) yields rise and the rate differential narrows, domestic institutions — pension funds, insurers, banks — may reassess foreign allocations. Holding U.S. Treasuries at 4% becomes less compelling when factoring in currency hedging costs, especially if JGB yields approach 1.5% without FX risk. Repatriation does not occur overnight. But sustained flows back into Japan could place upward pressure on U.S. yields. Higher global yields raise the cost of capital and tighten financial conditions. Risk assets, including Bitcoin, often face headwinds in such environments. The effect is indirect yet meaningful. Bitcoin’s valuation partly reflects global liquidity and opportunity cost dynamics. When risk-free returns rise, speculative demand tends to moderate. Three Scenarios for April — and Bitcoin’s Response Scenario 1: Hike with cautious guidance. BoJ raises to 1% but emphasizes gradual normalization and data dependence. The yen appreciates modestly. Volatility remains contained. Bitcoin reaction limited or short-lived. Scenario 2: Hike with hawkish forward guidance. Stronger wage or inflation data reinforces expectations of further tightening. Yen rallies 3–5% in a short window. Volatility spikes. Risk-parity and volatility-targeting strategies de-risk. Margin calls spread. Bitcoin could face a 10–20% drawdown, similar to August 2024 conditions. Scenario 3: No hike, dovish tone. Rates remain at 0.75%. Yen weakens. Carry trades regain confidence. Liquidity conditions improve. Bitcoin and other risk assets benefit from renewed risk appetite. What to Monitor Closely – BoJ statement language and Outlook Report on April 27–28 – Forward guidance on inflation expectations and wage growth – Implied volatility in USD/JPY – CFTC positioning data for extreme short-yen exposure – U.S. Treasury yield movements – TIC data signaling capital flows The phrase “Japan at 1%” can sound like a systemic warning. In reality, the outcome depends on communication, expectations, and liquidity conditions. A well-telegraphed move may prove neutral. A surprise within a fragile liquidity environment could amplify deleveraging. For Bitcoin, the distinction is critical. In gradual adjustments, it may revert to trading on its own supply-demand dynamics and institutional adoption trends. In abrupt tightening cycles, it can become part of the global liquidity shock transmission mechanism. An 80% probability suggests much is already priced in. The remaining 20% — and the tone of the policy path beyond 1% — may determine whether this becomes a routine normalization step or a catalyst for volatility. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research before making decisions. Follow for more macro–crypto insights and market breakdowns. #BTC #CryptoNews #Macro
PEPE Remains Under Pressure Near Key Resistance as Downtrend Extends PEPE continues to face sustained selling pressure, slipping more than 1% on Thursday and extending the previous session’s 4% decline. The latest move brings the meme coin’s weekly losses close to 5%, marking its sixth consecutive week of weakness and reinforcing the broader bearish structure. On the 4-hour timeframe, PEPE recently rejected from a descending trendline resistance and is now drifting lower, with price action pointing toward a potential retest of the February 6 low near $0.00000310. The market structure continues to print lower highs and lower lows, reflecting persistent downside momentum. Technical indicators support the cautious outlook. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has fallen to around 39, moving further below the neutral 50 level and indicating strengthening bearish pressure without yet entering deeply oversold territory. Meanwhile, the MACD line remains below the signal line, and expanding negative histogram bars suggest that downward momentum is accelerating rather than stabilizing. A decisive break below $0.00000310 could expose additional downside risk in the short term. Conversely, a bullish recovery scenario would require PEPE to reclaim and close above the $0.00000370 resistance zone, which aligns with the descending trendline. Such a move could open the path toward the 50-period EMA near $0.00000390, followed by stronger resistance at the 200-period EMA around $0.00000458. For now, price action remains technically fragile, with momentum indicators favoring sellers unless a confirmed breakout shifts sentiment. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Traders and investors should conduct their own research and apply appropriate risk management. Follow for more crypto market analysis and technical updates. #PEPE
Shiba Inu Bears Target Recent Lows as Downtrend Persists Shiba Inu (SHIB) is showing a similar structure to Dogecoin, continuing to face selling pressure as it slips nearly 1% on Wednesday, marking its fourth consecutive losing session. On the 4-hour timeframe, SHIB remains confined within a descending channel, reinforcing the short-term bearish trend. Immediate support is located around $0.0000059. A confirmed breakdown below this level could expose the February 6 low near $0.0000056, followed by deeper support around $0.0000051, which aligns with the lower boundary of the current descending channel. Momentum indicators reflect weakening strength. The RSI has declined toward the 40 zone and is approaching oversold territory, suggesting bearish momentum remains dominant. Meanwhile, the MACD line is converging with the signal line, increasing the risk of a fresh bearish crossover if selling pressure accelerates. On the upside, any recovery attempt may first test the 50-period EMA near $0.0000063, with stronger resistance seen around $0.0000065, close to the upper boundary of the descending channel. Long-Term Trade Scenarios (Risk-Managed Approach) Buy Scenario (Accumulation Zone) Entry: $0.0000051 – $0.0000056 TP1: $0.0000065 TP2: $0.0000075 SL: Below $0.0000047 Sell Scenario (If Breakdown Confirms) Entry: Below $0.0000059 (4H close) TP: $0.0000051 SL: Above $0.0000065 Risk management remains essential in volatile meme coin markets. This content is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Always conduct your own research before making investment decisions. Follow for more crypto technical updates and market insights. #SHIB #CryptoNews
Dogecoin Faces Risk of Deeper Pullback as Selling Pressure Builds As of Thursday’s session, Dogecoin (DOGE) is down nearly 1%, extending the previous 3% decline and signaling that bearish momentum remains intact. On the 4-hour chart, DOGE continues to trade well below both the 50-period and 200-period EMAs, reinforcing a short-term downtrend structure. Technical indicators also lean negative. The RSI hovers near 36 and continues to weaken, suggesting further downside room before reaching oversold territory. Meanwhile, the MACD remains below its signal line, with expanding negative histogram bars reflecting strengthening bearish momentum. Key support is located at $0.08675. A confirmed breakdown below this level could open the door toward the $0.080 zone. On the upside, any recovery attempt may face resistance around the $0.098 (EMA50) and $0.1153 (EMA200) levels. Long-Term Trade Scenarios (Risk-Managed Approach) Buy Scenario (Accumulation Zone) Entry: $0.080 – $0.086 TP1: $0.115 TP2: $0.140 SL: Below $0.072 Sell Scenario (If Breakdown Confirms) Entry: Below $0.086 (4H close) TP: $0.080 / $0.072 SL: Above $0.098 Always apply proper risk management and position sizing. This content is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Do your own research before making investment decisions. Follow for more crypto market updates and technical insights. #DOGE
K33: Bitcoin May Have Formed a Short-Term Bottom Near $60,000
Bitcoin’s sharp decline toward the $60,000 level last week may have marked a local bottom, according to research and brokerage firm K33. The firm argues that a cluster of “capitulation-like conditions” emerged simultaneously across spot, ETF, and derivatives markets during the recent sell-off. In a report released Tuesday evening, K33 Head of Research Vetle Lunde highlighted what he described as “a series of extreme outlier signals” shaping the downturn. Among the most notable developments: trading volumes surged into the 95th percentile historically, funding rates plunged to their lowest levels since the U.S. banking crisis in March 2023, and options skew reached defensive extremes last observed during the most stressed phases of the 2022 bear market. Momentum Indicators Flash Rare Oversold Signals Momentum metrics also entered historically rare territory. Following a sustained selling streak beginning January 20, Bitcoin’s daily Relative Strength Index (RSI) dropped to 15.9 — the sixth most oversold reading since 2015. For context, only March 2020 (COVID crash) and November 2018 (late-stage bear market capitulation) recorded lower RSI levels. RSI measures the speed and magnitude of recent price movements on a 0–100 scale, with readings below 30 generally considered oversold. According to Lunde, both previous instances coincided with major cyclical bottoms, reinforcing the argument that the recent flush toward $60,000 could represent a short-term capitulation event rather than the start of a prolonged breakdown. Sentiment data tells a similar story. The Crypto Fear & Greed Index dropped to 6 during the sell-off — the second lowest reading on record — signaling extreme pessimism as Bitcoin tested the $60,000 region. Explosive Trading Activity and Derivatives Stress The price decline was accompanied by what Lunde described as “hyperactive” trading conditions. Spot Bitcoin trading volume reached $32 billion on February 6 alone, placing both February 5 and 6 within the top 5% highest-volume days in Bitcoin’s history. Such clustered volume spikes are statistically rare and have historically aligned with local price extremes. The only comparable episode in the past five years occurred during the FTX collapse. In derivatives markets, stress levels escalated significantly. The daily annualized funding rate for Bitcoin perpetual swaps dropped to -15.46% on February 6 — the lowest since March 2023. Meanwhile, the 7-day average funding rate declined to -3.5%, marking its weakest level since September 2024. Options markets also shifted into an “extreme defensive posture.” Skew metrics reached levels comparable to those observed during the Luna collapse, 3AC liquidations, and the FTX failure — periods characterized by forced deleveraging and panic hedging. Record ETF Activity Reflects Volatility U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs also recorded extraordinary activity. BlackRock’s IBIT posted its highest-ever daily trading volume on February 5, surpassing $10 billion with 284.4 million shares traded. However, the same day marked the fifth-largest net outflow since ETF launches. Although inflows returned in subsequent sessions, total net outflows for the week reached approximately 13,670 BTC as of last Tuesday. This combination of record trading volume, heavy ETF flows, extreme funding compression, and defensive options positioning contributes to K33’s assessment that the $60,000 zone likely represents a statistically significant bottom region. Consolidation Phase Expected Looking ahead, K33 anticipates Bitcoin may transition into a sideways accumulation phase lasting several weeks or even months. The firm expects price action to likely fluctuate within a $60,000–$75,000 range. While volatility and trading intensity may gradually cool, the probability of a retest of the $60,000 support zone remains elevated. That said, K33 does not currently anticipate a materially deeper breakdown below the recently established lows. As always, market structure remains dynamic, and liquidity conditions, macro developments, and ETF flows will continue to influence short-term price behavior. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should conduct their own research before making financial decisions. Follow for more in-depth crypto market analysis and real-time updates. #Bitcoin #BTC #CryptoNews
Why Strong U.S. Jobs Data Is Raising Concerns for Bitcoin
Bitcoin is facing renewed macroeconomic pressure after the latest U.S. employment report showed a stronger-than-expected labor market, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve may delay interest rate cuts. According to the latest data release, the U.S. economy added 130,000 jobs in January — nearly double economists’ forecasts. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate declined to 4.3%, underscoring the continued resilience of the labor market despite tighter financial conditions over the past year. While robust employment growth is generally viewed as positive for the broader economy, it complicates the outlook for risk-sensitive assets such as Bitcoin. Strong Labor Data Reduces Near-Term Rate Cut Expectations In recent months, market participants had increasingly priced in the possibility of interest rate cuts, driven by concerns over slowing growth and moderating inflation. However, the strength of the labor market reduces the urgency for the Federal Reserve to ease monetary policy. Bond markets reacted swiftly. The yield on the U.S. 10-year Treasury note climbed toward 4.2%, rising several basis points immediately following the report. The 2-year Treasury yield — often viewed as more sensitive to monetary policy expectations — also moved higher, reflecting a reduced probability of rate cuts in the near term. Higher Treasury yields translate into tighter financial conditions. As borrowing costs rise across the economy, liquidity becomes more constrained. Risk assets, including equities and cryptocurrencies, tend to face headwinds in such environments because future cash flows are discounted at higher rates and capital rotates toward safer yield-bearing instruments. Higher Yields and a Stronger Dollar: A Headwind for Bitcoin Bitcoin has increasingly shown sensitivity to global liquidity dynamics. When Treasury yields rise, capital often flows toward government bonds, which offer stable and predictable returns. At the same time, rising yields are typically accompanied by a strengthening U.S. dollar. A stronger dollar can dampen global liquidity conditions and reduce appetite for speculative assets. Historically, periods of dollar strength and elevated yields have coincided with increased volatility or consolidation phases in the crypto market. Bitcoin recently slipped below the $70,000 level earlier this week. The stronger-than-expected employment data may increase short-term volatility, particularly if markets continue to reprice expectations for monetary easing. David Hernandez, Crypto Investment Specialist at 21Shares, noted: “For Bitcoin, this report represents a short-term obstacle. A significant upside surprise in employment data lowers the probability of a March rate cut and reinforces expectations that the Fed may maintain rates in the 3.50%–3.75% range. The liquidity catalyst that risk assets typically rely on for sustained rallies has effectively been pushed further out. We could see continued dollar strength and repricing in yields, both of which may keep Bitcoin range-bound in the near term.” Market Structure Amplifies Macro Sensitivity Recent market movements suggest Bitcoin is becoming increasingly responsive to macroeconomic shifts. Institutional participation through spot ETFs, derivatives positioning, and leveraged trading activity can amplify price reactions when financial conditions tighten. Large ETF inflows or outflows, combined with rapid adjustments in futures positioning, may accelerate short-term volatility when macro data surprises expectations. That said, a strong labor market does not automatically imply a sustained downturn for Bitcoin. Rather, it weakens one of the primary bullish catalysts that supported recent rallies: expectations of imminent monetary easing. In the short term, key support levels around $65,000 may attract market attention. However, if employment strength proves temporary and inflation continues to moderate later in the year, the Federal Reserve could still pivot toward rate cuts. In such a scenario, Bitcoin’s fixed supply dynamics may regain prominence as a long-term narrative driver. Conclusion The latest U.S. jobs report reinforces the “higher-for-longer” interest rate environment narrative. For Bitcoin, this does not necessarily signal immediate downside, but it does reduce the likelihood of sustained upward momentum in the absence of improved liquidity conditions. Unless Treasury yields stabilize or decline meaningfully, the broader macro backdrop currently leans toward caution rather than expansion for the crypto market. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers should conduct their own research before making financial decisions. Follow for more in-depth crypto macro analysis and real-time market insights. #Bitcoin #BTC #CryptoNews
Stellar (XLM) Faces Risk of Pullback Toward $0.136 as Selling Pressure Intensifies
Stellar (XLM) continues to trade under the $0.160 level as of Thursday’s session, marking its fifth consecutive day of losses and signaling that downside pressure has yet to ease. The sustained decline reflects weakening bullish momentum, while derivatives data and technical indicators increasingly point to a cautious market environment. At the time of observation, XLM remains structurally vulnerable as traders appear to reduce risk exposure amid broader market uncertainty. Derivatives Data Signals Growing Bearish Sentiment Market positioning in the derivatives sector paints a notably defensive picture for Stellar. The long/short ratio for XLM has fallen to 0.77 — its lowest reading in over a month. A ratio below 1 indicates that short positions outweigh long positions, suggesting that a majority of leveraged traders are positioning for further downside. This imbalance highlights growing bearish sentiment, as market participants appear to anticipate continued price weakness rather than a near-term recovery. Adding to the negative outlook, Open Interest (OI) in XLM futures has contracted significantly. OI declined to approximately $87.07 million on Thursday, marking its lowest level since mid-November 2024. This represents a sharp pullback from the January 6 peak of $166.99 million. A declining OI alongside falling prices typically signals capital outflows and reduced speculative participation. It suggests traders are closing positions rather than building new exposure, reinforcing the narrative of waning momentum and lower conviction in the short term. Technical Structure Remains Fragile From a technical perspective, XLM continues to trade below key short-term resistance levels, with momentum indicators tilting bearish. Consecutive lower highs and lower lows reflect a developing downtrend structure. If selling pressure persists, the $0.136 region may emerge as the next major support zone to watch. A breakdown below interim support levels could accelerate downside volatility. Conversely, a sustained recovery above $0.160 would be required to stabilize sentiment and invalidate immediate bearish pressure. For now, the combination of declining Open Interest, a bearish long/short ratio, and weakening technical structure suggests that caution remains dominant across the market. As always, market conditions can shift rapidly depending on liquidity flows and broader crypto sentiment. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should conduct their own research before making any financial decisions. Follow for more crypto market insights and real-time updates. #XLM #CryptoNews #altcoins
Sonic Labs Pushes Vertical Integration to Boost S Token Utility
Sonic Labs, the team behind the Layer 1 blockchain formerly known as Fantom, has unveiled a strategic shift aimed at increasing long-term demand and value capture for its native token, S. In a post published Wednesday on X titled “Vertical Integration: The Missing Link in L1 Value Creation,” the project outlined plans to directly build — and potentially acquire — core applications designed to expand the economic utility of the S token. The announcement signals a move beyond the traditional Layer 1 value accrual model centered primarily on gas fees. Instead, Sonic intends to internalize key economic primitives across its ecosystem, positioning itself not just as infrastructure, but as an active operator of high-impact on-chain products. Rethinking the “Gas Fee” Value Model Sonic is an EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain targeting extremely high throughput, with ambitions of processing hundreds of thousands of transactions per second and near-instant finality. According to third-party performance trackers such as Chainspect, Sonic ranks among the highest-throughput networks within the EVM ecosystem. Historically, the value thesis for many Layer 1 networks — including Sonic — followed a simple formula: More users → more transactions → more gas fees → token deflation and value accrual. However, Sonic Labs now argues that this “gas-only” model has proven insufficient in a rapidly evolving blockchain landscape. “Over the past five years, this thesis has been thoroughly challenged,” the team wrote. With the rise of rollups, modular blockchain designs, and high-performance alternative Layer 1s, blockspace is no longer scarce. As scalability improves across the industry, competition intensifies and transaction fees face structural compression. Users and liquidity can migrate between ecosystems more easily than ever. In this environment, relying solely on gas fees for token value capture may limit long-term sustainability. Vertical Integration: Owning the Economic Core Sonic’s proposed solution is vertical integration — directly building or acquiring essential applications within its own ecosystem. While maintaining its permissionless and open developer model, Sonic plans to internalize key economic infrastructure rather than allowing value to “leak” entirely to third-party applications built on top of the chain. Although specific acquisitions or product launches have not yet been disclosed, the team indicated that its vertically integrated ecosystem may include: Trading infrastructure Credit and lending primitives Payments systems Clearing and settlement layers Risk markets By controlling or co-owning these core components, Sonic aims to align protocol-level revenue more directly with token utility and long-term value creation. FeeM Model and Sustainable Buybacks Last fall, Sonic introduced a monetization mechanism called FeeM, which allows application developers to retain up to 90% of the fees generated by their apps. The remaining portion is burned, contributing to deflationary pressure on the S token. According to Sonic Labs, the new vertical integration strategy will complement — not replace — FeeM. Instead, it aims to route more economic activity into structures that directly benefit the S token. “As these revenue streams grow, Labs may implement sustainable token buyback programs,” Sonic stated. This approach mirrors recent industry developments. Optimism, for example, recently approved a plan to allocate 50% of ecosystem revenue toward OP token buybacks. Similarly, Sonic referenced Hyperliquid as a case study in vertical integration, noting that its perpetual DEX operates as both the application and the underlying blockchain — ensuring all trading fees and liquidations directly reinforce token value. Strategic Positioning in a Competitive L1 Landscape The shift reflects broader industry dynamics. As blockchains compete on scalability and efficiency, differentiation increasingly depends on ecosystem depth, native liquidity, and integrated economic design. Sonic’s strategy suggests a move toward tighter alignment between infrastructure and applications — potentially including mergers and acquisitions of high-quality teams building within the ecosystem. Adding to market interest, Andre Cronje — a prominent DeFi architect closely associated with Sonic and founder of protocols such as Yearn — recently raised $25.5 million in a private token round for a new on-chain exchange called Flying Tulip, reportedly valued at $1 billion. While independent from the Sonic announcement, the development underscores continued product innovation within the broader ecosystem. A Structural Evolution Rather Than a Short-Term Shift Sonic’s pivot does not signal abandonment of decentralization or open development. Instead, it represents a recalibration of how value is captured in an increasingly competitive and scalable blockchain environment. By focusing on ownership of core economic layers — while preserving permissionless participation — Sonic aims to create a more durable feedback loop between network usage, protocol revenue, and token utility. Whether this vertically integrated model proves effective may depend on execution, adoption, and broader market conditions. However, the move highlights a growing recognition among Layer 1 networks that infrastructure alone may no longer be sufficient to secure long-term token value. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Readers should conduct independent research and evaluate risks carefully before making any financial decisions. Follow for more in-depth updates on Layer 1 strategies, token economics, and crypto market developments. #Sonic #Layer1 #CryptoNews
HYPE Slips Below 50-Day EMA – Is a Deeper Correction Ahead?
At the time of writing on Thursday, Hyperliquid (HYPE) has lost a key technical support level after slipping below its 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $28.85, posting an intraday decline of nearly 1%. The breakdown of this short-term moving average — while it remains positioned below the 200-day EMA at $32.75 — reinforces the view that the broader market structure is currently tilted in favor of sellers. The 50-day EMA had been acting as a dynamic support zone throughout recent consolidation. A daily close below this level would confirm a short-term bearish continuation pattern and increase the probability of a deeper corrective move. Downside Levels to Watch If HYPE confirms a daily close beneath $28.85, the next significant support sits around $23.58 — the December 21 swing low. This level previously triggered a strong reaction and may attract renewed demand. Should selling pressure intensify further, the $20.82 zone — corresponding to the October 10 low — becomes the next major defensive line. A breakdown below that region would significantly weaken the medium-term structure and shift sentiment decisively bearish. Volume behavior will be critical. A rise in selling volume accompanying the breakdown would validate bearish conviction, while low-volume weakness could signal temporary exhaustion rather than structural damage. Technical Indicators Reinforce Bearish Bias Momentum indicators are aligning with the downside scenario: MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) on the daily chart has turned lower and formed a bearish crossover earlier this week. The histogram continues expanding in negative territory, reflecting accelerating downside momentum. RSI (Relative Strength Index) has retreated to 48 and moved below the neutral 50 threshold after exiting overbought territory. This suggests fading buying strength and leaves room for additional downside before reaching oversold conditions. Together, these indicators suggest that sellers currently maintain control, and short-term rallies may face resistance unless momentum shifts decisively. What Would Invalidate the Bearish Scenario? A recovery and daily close back above the 50-day EMA at $28.85 would ease immediate downside pressure. In that case, HYPE could attempt a rebound toward the 200-day EMA at $32.75, which now acts as major overhead resistance. A sustained break above the 200-day EMA would be required to reestablish bullish structure and potentially open the path toward the $35–$38 liquidity zone. Long-Term Strategic Trade Scenarios (Risk-Managed Approach) The following scenarios are hypothetical strategic examples based on technical structure and risk management principles — not financial advice. Bullish Reclaim Scenario (Long-Term Positioning) Entry (Buy): Above $29.20–$29.50 after confirmed daily close back above 50-day EMA Target 1: $32.75 (200-day EMA) Target 2: $35.50 Target 3 (extended): $38.00 Stop Loss: Below $26.80 (structure invalidation level) Rationale: Waiting for confirmation reduces false breakout risk and aligns with momentum recovery. Bearish Continuation Scenario (Long-Term Swing Short) Entry (Sell): On confirmed daily close below $28.50 Target 1: $23.58 Target 2: $20.82 Extended Target: $18.50 (if broader market weakness accelerates) Stop Loss: Above $30.20 Rationale: Breakdown below dynamic support with bearish momentum continuation. Market Outlook HYPE is currently at a technical crossroads. The loss of the 50-day EMA shifts short-term bias bearish, while the 200-day EMA overhead limits upside recovery attempts. Momentum indicators favor caution, and price action around $28.85 will likely determine the next multi-week direction. As always, traders should combine technical analysis with proper risk management and remain aware of broader market conditions, especially in high-volatility digital asset markets. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Always conduct your own research and assess your risk tolerance before making trading or investment decisions. Follow for more in-depth crypto technical analysis and market insights. #Hyperliquid #HYPE #CryptoNews
Hyperliquid (HYPE) Pulls Back to Key Support Zone as Selling Pressure Intensifies
Hyperliquid (HYPE) extended its weekly decline on Thursday, retreating toward the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) near the $28.85 level. The move marks a nearly 10% correction since the start of the week, with bearish momentum building amid weakening derivatives demand. The 50-day EMA is now acting as a critical technical “defensive line,” widely monitored by traders to assess short-term trend direction. A sustained hold above this dynamic support could stabilize price action, while a decisive breakdown may open the door to deeper retracement levels. Derivatives Data Signals Cooling Speculative Demand HYPE — the native token of the decentralized perpetual futures exchange Hyperliquid — is showing signs of fading retail enthusiasm. According to data from CoinGlass, open interest (OI) in HYPE futures contracts declined approximately 2% over the past 24 hours, falling to around $1.34 billion. A decline in OI typically indicates that traders are closing positions, either voluntarily reducing exposure or being forced out through liquidations. In the current environment, the drop suggests a combination of deleveraging and cautious positioning as market conditions turn less favorable. At the same time, liquidation data highlights a clear imbalance. Long positions worth approximately $3.07 million were liquidated within the same 24-hour window, significantly exceeding the roughly $228,950 in short liquidations. This sharp disparity suggests that bullish traders have faced aggressive pressure, contributing to downside acceleration. The long-to-short ratio has fallen to 0.9037 — below the neutral threshold of 1 — indicating that short positions now slightly outweigh longs. While not an extreme reading, the shift reflects a growing defensive tone among derivatives participants. Technical Structure at a Crossroads From a chart perspective, HYPE’s retracement toward the 50-day EMA places the token at a technical inflection point. The level has historically served as dynamic support during prior pullbacks within broader uptrends. A strong bounce from this zone could signal that the correction is merely a consolidation phase. However, if price closes decisively below the 50-day EMA with increasing volume, it may confirm short-term trend weakness and shift momentum toward lower support zones. Momentum indicators have also cooled compared to earlier in the rally cycle, reflecting declining buying intensity. Combined with shrinking open interest and long liquidations, the data suggests that leveraged bullish positioning has been partially flushed from the market. Retail Sentiment Under Pressure The current structure reflects tightening conditions for smaller traders who tend to use leverage in perpetual futures markets. As liquidation pressure increases and volatility rises, risk appetite often contracts, reinforcing short-term bearish bias. While this does not necessarily invalidate Hyperliquid’s broader ecosystem growth narrative, it underscores how derivatives-driven price action can amplify short-term swings — particularly in tokens closely tied to trading activity. For now, market participants are closely monitoring whether HYPE can defend the $28.85 support region. The reaction at this level may determine whether the token stabilizes or enters a deeper corrective phase. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers should conduct independent research and carefully assess risks before making financial decisions. Follow for more real-time crypto market analysis and derivatives insights. #Hyperliquid #HYPE #CryptoNews
Solana Enters Correction Phase as Selling Pressure Builds and $75 Support Faces Critical Test
Solana (SOL) has entered a notable correction phase after failing to sustain its recent recovery rally. The asset climbed to a local high near $88 on February 8 before slipping into a steady decline. Since that peak, SOL has fallen nearly 10%, with selling pressure accelerating over the past 24 hours. While the broader market structure has not fully invalidated Solana’s longer-term recovery attempt, a combination of weakening momentum indicators and shifting on-chain flows suggests that the current pullback is driven largely by declining market participation and short-term speculative behavior. The key level now under focus is the $75 support zone — a threshold that may determine whether the correction stabilizes or deepens further. Hidden Bearish Divergence Signals Momentum Weakness Early warning signs emerged on the 12-hour chart in the sessions leading up to the reversal. Between February 6 and February 8, SOL formed a lower high near $88, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) printed a higher high. RSI is a widely used momentum oscillator that measures buying and selling strength. When price forms a lower high while RSI forms a higher high, it creates what is known as a hidden bearish divergence — a signal that underlying momentum may be weakening even if price appears stable. Shortly after this divergence developed, SOL began retracing. The technical weakness was reinforced by a shift in exchange flow data. The Exchange Net Position Change metric, which tracks whether tokens are being deposited to or withdrawn from exchanges over a 30-day period, showed a decisive reversal. On February 9, the metric recorded a net outflow of approximately −538,878 SOL, indicating tokens were being withdrawn from exchanges — often interpreted as a sign of reduced immediate selling pressure. However, by February 10, the metric flipped to a net inflow of roughly +245,691 SOL, signaling that more tokens were being moved onto exchanges, typically associated with increased intent to sell. This sharp transition in exchange positioning coincided with SOL declining more than 4% within a single day, accelerating the broader correction that began after February 8. The convergence of bearish technical signals and rising exchange inflows intensified downward momentum. Short-Term Holders Absorb Supply — But Stability Remains Questionable Despite rising exchange deposits, not all market participants are exiting positions. On-chain data suggests that short-term traders are stepping in to absorb supply — though their presence may introduce additional volatility. Data from the HODL Waves indicator reveals that the share of SOL held by short-term investors (holding periods between one day and one week) has increased significantly. HODL Waves categorize wallets based on holding duration, offering insight into investor behavior and market structure shifts. Since February 8, the percentage of supply held by short-term participants has risen from approximately 5.39% to 6.81%. This notable increase suggests heightened speculative activity during the correction phase. Historically, however, short-term holders have not provided durable price support. For example, on January 27 — when SOL was trading near $127 — short-term investors controlled around 5.26% of supply. Within days, that share dropped to 4.31% amid rapid selling, contributing to an 8% price decline. A similar behavioral pattern now appears to be forming: speculative inflows increase during volatility, but these participants may exit quickly if upside momentum fails to materialize. $75 Support Becomes the Key Battlefield At present, the $75 level stands as a critical technical support zone. A sustained defense of this area could help stabilize price structure and preserve the broader recovery trajectory. However, a decisive breakdown below $75 may expose SOL to deeper retracement levels as liquidity pockets below that zone become vulnerable. The market’s direction from here will likely depend on whether longer-term holders re-enter to provide structural support, or whether short-term speculation continues to dominate price action. For now, Solana remains in a corrective phase characterized by weakening momentum, increasing exchange inflows, and elevated short-term participation. Whether this pullback represents a healthy consolidation or the beginning of a deeper decline will depend largely on how price reacts around the $75 support area in the coming sessions. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Readers should conduct their own research and evaluate risk carefully before making any investment decisions. Follow for more real-time crypto market analysis and on-chain insights. #Solana #SOL #CryptoNews
BlackRock Brings Tokenized Fund BUIDL to Uniswap, Expanding the Bridge Between TradFi and DeFi
UNI saw modest gains after Uniswap’s founder confirmed the integration of BlackRock’s tokenized money market fund, BUIDL, into the Uniswap ecosystem — marking another significant step in the convergence of traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralized finance (DeFi). According to an official announcement from Uniswap Labs, BlackRock — the world’s largest asset manager — will enable its $2.1 billion tokenized fund to be traded via UniswapX. The protocol functions as a competitive marketplace where professional market makers compete to offer optimal execution prices to users through a Request For Quote (RFQ) model. Strategic Investment and Ecosystem Alignment In addition to the product integration, Uniswap Labs disclosed that BlackRock has made a “strategic investment” in the Uniswap ecosystem. While specific financial details were not publicly disclosed, a source familiar with the matter indicated that BlackRock intends to acquire UNI tokens. If confirmed, this would represent the first DeFi-native token appearing on BlackRock’s balance sheet. However, the disclosure also noted that any investment positions may be adjusted or terminated at BlackRock’s discretion, reflecting standard institutional portfolio management practices. How BUIDL Will Operate on Uniswap The integration allows BUIDL to trade on-chain in a structure similar to other digital tokens, but with an added compliance and security layer. Securitize — the digital asset tokenization platform managing the fund — will continue to coordinate operations. The system automatically sources quotes from a network of approved liquidity providers. Major crypto market makers such as Wintermute and Flowdesk are expected to participate, competing to deliver the best pricing via RFQ infrastructure. This hybrid structure maintains institutional oversight while leveraging decentralized liquidity mechanics. Uniswap Labs stated that the objective is to “narrow the gap between traditional finance and DeFi,” enabling compliant financial products to interact with open blockchain infrastructure. Tokenization as Infrastructure Evolution BUIDL is currently one of the largest tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), according to data from RWA.xyz. The fund’s token is pegged to the U.S. dollar and backed by cash and U.S. Treasury securities. Unlike most stablecoins, BUIDL distributes yield to eligible investors, positioning it as a yield-bearing on-chain money market instrument rather than a simple payment token. Securitize CEO Carlos Domingo emphasized that the model preserves elements of self-custody while meeting institutional compliance requirements. “This is the unlock we’ve been pursuing — combining the trust and regulatory standards of traditional finance with the speed and openness of DeFi,” Domingo said. He added that the framework could be extended to additional real-world assets beyond money market funds. BlackRock’s Broader Tokenization Thesis BlackRock leadership has been vocal about tokenization’s long-term potential. In a December commentary published in The Economist, CEO Larry Fink and COO Rob Goldstein described tokenization as “the next major evolution in market infrastructure,” highlighting instant settlement and expanded asset accessibility as key advantages. In its 2026 thematic outlook report, BlackRock identified Ethereum as the leading blockchain supporting tokenization initiatives. Ethereum currently underpins the majority of stablecoins and tokenized RWAs. Uniswap, originally launched on Ethereum mainnet in 2018, remains one of the network’s foundational DeFi protocols and recently introduced its own Layer-2 network, Unichain. The BUIDL integration further reinforces Ethereum’s positioning as the settlement layer for tokenized financial products, while signaling increasing institutional comfort with on-chain infrastructure. A Gradual Convergence The listing of a BlackRock-managed tokenized fund on a decentralized exchange infrastructure represents a symbolic and operational milestone. While regulatory frameworks and custody constraints remain evolving considerations, the collaboration illustrates how institutional capital and DeFi protocols are beginning to coexist within shared liquidity environments. As tokenized RWAs continue gaining traction, the interaction between compliant asset managers and decentralized trading venues may reshape how capital markets operate over the coming decade. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers should conduct independent research and assess risks before making financial decisions. Follow for more updates on institutional crypto adoption and DeFi market developments. #blackRock #uniswap #UNI
Deepfake AI Emerges as a New Weapon in North Korea-Linked Attacks on Crypto Firms, Google Warns
Google’s cybersecurity division Mandiant has issued a warning that threat actors linked to North Korea are increasingly incorporating AI-generated deepfake technology into sophisticated social engineering campaigns targeting cryptocurrency and fintech companies. In a report released Monday, Mandiant detailed a recent investigation into a breach at a fintech firm attributed to UNC1069 — also known as “CryptoCore” — a threat cluster assessed to have strong ties to North Korea. The operation combined compromised Telegram accounts, fraudulent Zoom meetings, and a technique known as “ClickFix” to trick victims into executing malicious commands. Investigators also identified evidence that AI-generated video was used during the fake meeting to enhance the credibility of the impersonation. Highly Targeted Social Engineering Campaigns According to Mandiant, UNC1069 has expanded its focus beyond broad phishing campaigns to conduct highly personalized attacks aimed at organizations and individuals in the crypto ecosystem. Targets reportedly include software companies, blockchain developers, venture capital firms, and executive leadership teams. The attack chain described in the report began when a victim was contacted via Telegram by what appeared to be a well-known crypto industry executive. However, the account had allegedly been compromised and was under attacker control. After establishing rapport, the attacker sent a Calendly scheduling link for a 30-minute meeting, redirecting the victim to a fraudulent Zoom session hosted on infrastructure controlled by the threat group. During the call, the victim reportedly observed what appeared to be a recognizable crypto CEO on video — later assessed to be AI-generated deepfake content. Shortly after the meeting began, the attackers claimed there were audio issues and instructed the victim to execute specific “troubleshooting” commands — a variation of the ClickFix technique. This action triggered the deployment of malware. Subsequent forensic analysis identified seven distinct malware families on the victim’s system, designed to steal login credentials, browser data, and session tokens for financial theft and further impersonation. Escalation of Crypto Theft Linked to North Korea The warning comes amid continued growth in crypto-related theft attributed to North Korean-linked actors. In mid-December, blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis reported that hackers associated with Pyongyang stole approximately $2.02 billion in digital assets in 2025 — a 51% increase compared to the previous year. The cumulative value of digital assets allegedly stolen by such groups is now estimated at around $6.75 billion, even though the total number of incidents has declined. These figures suggest a shift toward fewer but more financially impactful operations. Security analysts note that rather than relying on mass phishing emails, groups like CryptoCore are increasingly leveraging trusted communication channels — including messaging apps and video conferencing platforms — to exploit familiarity and professional trust. By embedding malicious activity within routine business interactions, attackers reduce visible red flags and increase the likelihood of success. Deepfake and AI Amplify Impersonation Tactics Fraser Edwards, Co-founder and CEO of decentralized identity company cheqd, stated that the incident reflects a broader evolution in cybercrime tactics, particularly as remote collaboration and virtual meetings become standard across the digital asset sector. He emphasized that the effectiveness of such operations lies in their subtlety: familiar senders, recognizable meeting formats, and no obvious malicious attachments. Trust is established before technical safeguards have the opportunity to intervene. According to Edwards, deepfake video is often introduced during escalation stages — such as live calls — where the visual presence of a familiar face can override suspicion triggered by unusual requests or technical disruptions. The objective is not prolonged interaction, but sufficient realism to prompt the target to take a critical action. AI is also reportedly being used beyond video impersonation. Tools capable of drafting context-aware messages, mimicking tone, and replicating communication styles make fraudulent outreach significantly harder to detect. As AI agents become more integrated into daily workflows — sending messages, scheduling meetings, and acting on behalf of users — the potential scale of automated impersonation increases. The Need for Default Security Infrastructure Edwards argues that expecting individuals to reliably detect deepfakes is unrealistic. Instead, organizations should focus on strengthening default security systems, improving authentication layers, and clearly signaling content authenticity. Rather than relying solely on user vigilance, experts recommend implementing multi-factor authentication, hardware security keys, session monitoring, and zero-trust frameworks — particularly for companies handling digital assets. As AI capabilities advance, the line between authentic and synthetic communication continues to blur, creating new operational risks for crypto-native firms that rely heavily on digital trust. This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers should conduct their own research and assess risk before making any financial decisions. Follow for more verified crypto security updates and institutional market insights. #CryptoNews #CyberSecurity #Aİ
Michael Saylor Reaffirms “Buy Forever” Strategy as Company’s Unrealized Bitcoin Loss Tops $5 Billion
Michael Saylor, Executive Chairman of Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), has reiterated that the company will continue purchasing Bitcoin “forever,” despite reporting more than $5 billion in unrealized losses from prior BTC acquisitions. Over the past week, Strategy deployed an additional $90 million to acquire Bitcoin during an 8% market pullback. The purchase added 1,142 BTC to its balance sheet, bringing total holdings to approximately 714,644 BTC — currently valued at around $49 billion based on market prices. However, with Bitcoin trading near $68,829, Strategy’s aggregate holdings are presently about $5.1 billion below the company’s average acquisition cost. The most recent purchase was executed at an average price of roughly $78,815 per BTC, meaning the latest tranche is also temporarily underwater, with a current market value of approximately $79.3 million versus the $90 million spent. “We Will Not Sell” In a recent interview with CNBC, Saylor dismissed concerns about volatility and reaffirmed the company’s long-term conviction. “We will not sell. We will buy Bitcoin. I expect we will buy Bitcoin every quarter, forever.” Bitcoin is currently down roughly 45% from its all-time high of $126,080 recorded in October. The drawdown has sparked renewed debate over whether Strategy — which controls an estimated 3.4% of Bitcoin’s total supply — could face pressure to liquidate assets to service debt or pay dividends. Saylor rejected those concerns, calling them “unfounded.” According to him, the company maintains sufficient liquidity to cover debt obligations and dividend payments for approximately 2.5 years. In December, Strategy announced the creation of a $1.44 billion USD Reserve designed specifically to support dividend payments without selling Bitcoin. The company has also strengthened its cash position through additional common stock issuances. Risk Management and Extreme Scenarios Addressing worst-case scenarios, Saylor stated that even in the event of a severe market downturn, the company has contingency plans in place. “If Bitcoin drops 90% over the next four years, we would refinance our debt and extend maturities,” he said. “At $68,000 today, the price would need to fall to around $8,000 before we would even consider such measures — and even then, refinancing remains an option.” He also dismissed the possibility of Bitcoin going to zero, emphasizing that the company’s strategy is based on long-term conviction rather than short-term price action. Market Sentiment Remains Cautious On prediction platform Myriad, traders currently estimate roughly a 28% probability that Strategy will sell Bitcoin before the end of 2026 — down 7 percentage points from the previous week as Bitcoin rebounded from lows near $60,000. Meanwhile, Strategy’s stock (MSTR), often described by Saylor as “leveraged Bitcoin exposure,” fell approximately 2.7% in Tuesday’s trading session and is down nearly 66% over the past six months. Shares are currently trading around $134.58. A High-Conviction Treasury Model Strategy remains the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin globally, positioning its balance sheet as a long-term BTC treasury vehicle. The company continues to frame its approach not as short-term speculation, but as a structural shift toward Bitcoin as a primary reserve asset. Whether this high-conviction strategy proves visionary or risky will ultimately depend on Bitcoin’s long-term trajectory — but for now, Saylor’s message is clear: accumulation continues, regardless of volatility. This article is for informational purposes only and reflects a market overview. It is not financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research and assess risk before making any investment decisions. Follow for more timely crypto market updates and institutional insights. #BTC #MichaelSaylor #strategy