Market Signal Briefing

Belgium’s second-largest bank, KBC Group, will become the first bank in the country to let everyday customers trade Bitcoin and Ethereum. The bank confirmed the move on January 15, 2026, and said trading services will start during the week of February 16, 2026 through its online investment platform, Bolero.

KBC’s announcement marks a milestone for crypto adoption by traditional banks in Belgium. The service will be offered in compliance with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which aims to create consistent rules for digital-asset services across the EU.

Under the plan, clients must complete a risk-knowledge and experience test before they can trade. The platform will operate on an “execution-only” basis, meaning KBC will not provide investment advice. Trades will be conducted inside a closed-loop system on Bolero; investors won’t be able to transfer crypto assets out to external wallets or exchanges.

KBC serves about 4 million users through Bolero, and the bank said it has filed a full Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) notification with Belgian authorities to offer the new services.

The move comes after KBC first proposed offering crypto trading to retail clients in mid-2025, pending regulatory approval. At the time, the bank said it intended to let customers buy and sell Bitcoin and Ether directly through Bolero once permissions were in place.

What This Means for Belgian InvestorsRegulated crypto trading inside a local bank could change how some Belgians invest in digital assets. Until now, most retail investors in the country have used foreign platforms such as Binance, Coinbase, or Revolut to buy and sell crypto.

By integrating crypto services into Bolero, KBC aims to provide a safer and more familiar option for investors who already use the platform for stocks and bonds. The bank has emphasized investor education as part of the rollout, with materials available to help users understand risks like price volatility.

The launch also reflects a broader shift in Europe. Financial institutions in several countries, including Germany, have begun offering regulated crypto trading under MiCA or similar frameworks. KBC’s move places Belgium alongside this trend, though wider adoption by other Belgian banks has yet to be seen.

Overall, the introduction of in-bank crypto trading could expand access to digital assets for retail investors while keeping them within regulated financial environments. 

CoinCodex Prediction Maps Bitcoin in the $74K to $105K BandMeanwhile, CoinCodex projects Bitcoin drifting lower over the next 12 months, with its baseline forecast pointing to $84,737 by Jan. 11, 2027 from a $95,333 starting point. The model’s implied move equals a 11.1% decline, and its dotted projection line spends much of 2026 trending down before flattening near the end of the window.

Bitcoin BTC Price Forecast 2026 2027. Source: CoinCodex

The forecast also sets clear outer bounds for the year ahead. CoinCodex lists a predicted high of $105,000, which signals the model still allows a rebound back toward six figures. However, the projected path does not stay near that level. Instead, it treats any strength as temporary and returns to a softer slope afterward.

On the downside, CoinCodex places a predicted low at $74,425, which defines the risk range if declines deepen. The forecast line leans toward the low-$80,000 area during 2026, then steadies, suggesting the model expects price to spend more time below the current level than above it as the year progresses.

A wallet linked by Arkham to Tom Lee’s Bitmine received about $80 million in Ether, lifting its balance to roughly 24,068 ETH. Meanwhile, Ethereum traded near $3,310 as price tested the $3,350 to $3,400 resistance band on the daily Binance chart.

Tom Lee-linked wallet receives about $80 million in Ether, Arkham data showsA wallet tracked by blockchain analytics firm Arkham and linked to Tom Lee’s Bitmine received roughly $80 million worth of Ether in a single inflow, according to on-chain data visible on Arkham’s platform. The address now holds about 24,068 ETH, with the portfolio value shown near $80.16 million as Ether traded around $3,330 at the time of observation.

Tom Lee Linked ETH Wallet Activity. Source: Arkham Intelligence/X

The Arkham dashboard shows the ETH arrived from a FalconX hot wallet in two transfers recorded roughly two hours apart. The first and largest transfer accounted for nearly the full amount, while a much smaller follow-up transfer appeared shortly after. No immediate outbound transfers were visible, leaving the wallet balance largely intact following the inflow.

This activity marks the first on-chain ETH accumulation tied to Lee-linked entities that Arkham has flagged in about three weeks. Arkham data also indicates the wallet holds only Ether, with no other token balances listed, suggesting a focused allocation rather than a diversified crypto portfolio.

Arkham has previously said Bitmine still has close to $1 billion available for potential Ethereum purchases. While neither Lee nor Bitmine has publicly commented on the latest transfer, the size and structure of the inflow point to continued institutional-scale exposure to Ether rather than short-term trading activity.

Ethereum tests $3,400 reclaim as support holdsMeanwhile, Ethereum traded near $3,310 on the daily ETHUSDT chart as price pushed into the $3,350 to $3,400 resistance band marked on the chart. At the same time, ETH held firm while Bitcoin pulled back, which kept the rebound structure intact. However, sellers still defended the same ceiling that capped earlier rallies, so the market stayed stuck at a decision level.

Ethereum TetherUS Daily Chart. Source: Ted Pillows via X

Ted Pillows (@TedPillows) said ETH is still trying to reclaim $3,350 to $3,400. He added that Ethereum has held up well despite the BTC correction. He also said a break above $3,400 with strong volume could produce a 10% to 15% weekly candle, which would signal momentum returning after weeks of choppy trading.

The chart mapped two clear paths from here. First, ETH can reclaim $3,400, then retest that zone as support, and then target the next resistance block near $3,900. Second, ETH can reject from the $3,350 to $3,400 band and rotate lower, where the chart highlighted the $3,058 support area as the first level to watch. If that floor fails, the next demand zones sit near $2,750 and $2,510, both tied to earlier bases and prior rebounds.

14h05 ▪ 5 min read ▪ by Ifeoluwa O.

Summarize this article with:

Bitcoin is showing signs of renewed strength as its price steadies after an extended period of market weakness. As conditions stabilize, Binance co-founder and former chief executive Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has maintained a highly optimistic long-term outlook, confident that Bitcoin is on course to reach $200,000 and stressing that the only uncertainty is timing. He also noted that an altcoin season is likely to arrive over time.

In brief CZ is confident that Bitcoin will eventually reach $200,000 and stresses that the only question is when this will happen He also mentions that an altcoin season is likely to arrive eventually, though it’s hard to predict when or which tokens will benefit. He emphasizes that meme coins with genuine significance tend to survive, while the majority fade over time. CZ Maintains Firm Conviction on Bitcoin’s Trajectory CZ shared his outlook during a recent ask-me-anything (AMA) session hosted on Binance Square. During the discussion, he emphasized that his view reflects a long-term belief rather than a near-term market call. According to CZ, Bitcoin reaching $200,000 is not a matter of speculation but a conclusion he sees as unavoidable over time. He later reinforced this position on X, where he underlined that the broader direction of Bitcoin’s value remains obvious to him.

This perspective aligns with views expressed by other market analysts. Fundstrat Global Advisors managing partner and head of research Tom Lee has also outlined a scenario in which Bitcoin advances toward the $200,000 to $250,000 range. Speaking during a CNBC interview, Lee explained that such price levels would represent a clear break from Bitcoin’s traditional four-year market cycle, which would normally suggest weaker performance during the current phase.

Lee attributed this shift to structural changes taking place across the financial system, noting that :

Rising institutional involvement is playing a central role in supporting Bitcoin’s recovery. This is complemented by ongoing development of blockchain-based products by major Wall Street firms, which further strengthens market infrastructure. Alongside these developments, increasing support from the U.S. government for the digital asset sector is reinforcing confidence and creating favorable conditions for the cryptocurrency. Market Data Shows Diverging Investor Behavior Alongside these broader views, Bitcoin has posted a short-term recovery, briefly climbing to $97,000 for the first time since mid-November before easing back toward $96,000. On-chain data suggests that this rebound is being shaped by a clear split between large and small holders. Analytics platform Santiment reported that since January 10, wallets holding between 10 and 10,000 Bitcoin have accumulated an additional 32,693 BTC, increasing their combined holdings by 0.24%.

At the same time, wallets holding less than 0.01 Bitcoin have moved in the opposite direction. Over the same period, these smaller holders reduced their exposure by 149 BTC, a 0.30% decline. This pattern indicates steady accumulation by larger investors while retail participation pulls back, a setup often associated with strengthening market conditions.

Whales Accumulate as Retail Sells—Bullish Signal for Bitcoin Bitcoin ETFs Activity and Altcoin Outlook Investor interest is also evident in the ETF market. Bitcoin exchange-traded funds recorded total net inflows of $843.62 million in the latest session, marking the third consecutive day of positive flows following earlier outflows this year. The sustained activity points to renewed confidence among institutional participants.

Bitcoin Spot ETFs See Surge in Daily Inflows While remaining bullish on Bitcoin, CZ offered a more measured view of the broader market. He noted that an altcoin season is likely to emerge over time but emphasized that its timing, duration, and which tokens will benefit remain uncertain. 

Supporting this perspective, data from BlockchainCenter shows the altcoin season index at 37, indicating that the market has not yet entered an altcoin phase. The report also shows that the current streak without a season is 486 days, with 111 days since the last recorded altcoin season.

Extending this perspective, CZ also addressed meme coins, stating that only those with genuine historical or cultural foundations tend to endure, while more than 90% ultimately fade away.

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Ifeoluwa O.

Ifeoluwa specializes in Web3 writing and marketing, with over 5 years of experience creating insightful and strategic content. Beyond this, he trades crypto and is skilled at conducting technical, fundamental, and on-chain analyses.

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The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and should not be taken as investment advice. Do your own research before taking any investment decisions.

By mid-january 2026, Bitcoin price rose about 12%, surpassing the $95K resistance level after a period of stagnation. This rise is fueled by strong institutional demand and positive macro conditions. However, short-term catalysts are uncertain, though key on-chain factors point to a bullish outlook.

Institutional Demand Reignites BTC Price MomentumThe Bitcoin price chart, which has recently jumped above $95K, has been largely bolstered by rising institutional interest, particularly through spot Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs).

Recent data indicate that spot BTC ETFs’ weekly inflows of $1.8 billion were the largest influx since early October. This suggests a resurgence of investor confidence.

This week’s momentum in the Bitcoin price was further complemented by Strategy’s aggressive accumulation. Michael Saylor publicly disclosed that it increased its total holdings close to 687,410 BTC.

Such large-scale corporate purchases serve as a clear indicator of long-term conviction. This strongly reinforces the narrative of Bitcoin as a treasury asset.

Regulatory Dynamics and Macro Sentiment Influence Price DirectionBeyond institutional strength, the BTC price rally was also influenced by broader macro and regulatory developments. As an early draft of the Clarity Act which was circulated, prompted optimism about future crypto regulation that led to rise in price. However, rise remained brief, as an in-depth analysis of the draft sparked opposition from the Coinbase CEO, leading the Senate to delay the bill’s markup, which created mixed sentiment in the current market.

While this delay was necessary, it has sustained near-term momentum and reminded traders of the ongoing regulatory uncertainty that continues to temper any acceleration in Bitcoin’s price. That underscores the need for clear, favorable legislation, as this could further unlock institutional flows and bolster the Bitcoin price forecast narrative.

In addition, easing geopolitical tensions contributed to short-term risk-on sentiment, too. Reports suggest that potential conflict triggers in the Middle East were being de-escalated that also provided mild support for risk assets, including Bitcoin and broader crypto markets.

On-Chain Buying Signals Improve Supply–Demand StructureBeyond flows and macro events, on-chain metrics are also pointing toward healthier accumulation dynamics. A key metric, the 90-day Spot Taker Cumulative Volume Delta (CVD), has shifted toward a taker buy dominance phase. 

This suggests buy-side pressure is growing relative to sell-side activity, indicating that sellers are being absorbed and the supply-demand structure is improving.

The combination of institutional ETF inflows and positive on-chain indicators paints a picture of strengthening fundamental support for the BTC price prediction in early 2026.

BTC Price Eyes Critical Technical BreakoutsTechnically, on the daily chart, Bitcoin price now faces the dynamic resistance posed by the 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA). A successful flip of this level could propel the BTC price toward the next psychological target near $108,000.

For now, the market’s direction hinges on continued institutional participation, regulatory clarity, and the evolving macro landscape.

Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.

Investment Disclaimer:All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.

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The cryptocurrency market rally has stalled after Bitcoin briefly touched the $98k level on Wednesday. 

At press time, Bitcoin is trading above $95,500, up 5% in the last seven days.

Leading altcoins Ethereum (ETH) and Ripple (XRP) followed BTC’s footsteps, hovering around key levels after their upside moves. 

Market analysts are optimistic that Bitcoin’s price could push towards the $100k psychological mark if the current support level holds.  

Bitcoin stays above the $94k support level Copy link to section

Bitcoin, the leading cryptocurrency by market cap, is trading above $95,500, down 1.5% in the last 24 hours.

The pullback comes after Bitcoin added more than 5% to its value this week, briefly touching the $98k level.

Analysts are optimistic that Bitcoin could rally higher, with some calling the asset undervalued. 

In an email to Invezz, Ruslan Lienkha, chief of markets at YouHodler, pointed out that Bitcoin has shown a clear divergence from other risk assets, particularly US equities, over the past few months. 

Given Bitcoin’s inherent volatility, such divergences do occur but are typically temporary.

The recent price action suggests that BTC is now moving toward a fairer valuation, closer to its previous all-time highs, rather than running ahead of fundamentals.

Lienkha added that,

“I do not expect prolonged stalling at current levels. Instead, Bitcoin is more likely to either retest the $90K area or continue higher toward $100K. From a technical perspective, $100K represents the next significant resistance level, while the $90K zone would act as the nearest meaningful support in the event of a pullback.”

The analyst added that if US equity indices continue trading near all-time highs, reflecting strong investor confidence and relatively supportive financial conditions, Bitcoin could continue to close the performance gap and potentially move toward its previous all-time high.

Bitcoin could rally to $100k if the support level holds Copy link to section

The BTC/USD 4H Chart remains bullish and efficient despite the ongoing pullback.

BTC rose to a two-month high of $98k on Wednesday after finding support around the previously broken upper consolidation zone at $90,000 last week.

The momentum indicators suggest that the bulls are still in control. If the $94,253 support level holds, Bitcoin could extend the surge toward the key psychological $100,000 level.

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the 4-hour chart reads 65, above the neutral level of 50, indicating the bulls still have control of the momentum. 

In addition to that, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) shows a bullish crossover that remains intact.

On the flip side, if the $94,253 level fails to hold, BTC could extend the decline toward the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at $92,207. The support level at $90k could also come into play if the bears push the price lower.

Quantum threats prompt reevaluation of digital assets by institutional investors. Photo: Just_Super/Getty Images

Key Takeaways Christopher Wood, a renowned equity strategist at Jefferies, has decided to divest from Bitcoin. The decision stems from concerns about quantum computing potentially compromising Bitcoin's security architecture. Jefferies’ Global Head of Equity Strategy Christopher Wood has removed Bitcoin from his model portfolio over fears that advances in quantum computing could eventually undermine its long-term viability as a store of value.

Writing in his Greed & Fear newsletter, Wood said the technology may arrive sooner than expected and poses an existential risk to Bitcoin’s security and mining system.

The Jefferies strategist added Bitcoin to his model portfolio in 2020 and raised the allocation to 10%. He has now exited the position entirely, reallocating to 5% in physical gold and 5% in gold-mining stocks.

About four months ago, Wood argued that both gold and Bitcoin served as core hedges against dollar debasement. He emphasized Bitcoin’s appeal to younger generations but said gold’s centuries-long history gave it an advantage.

While quantum technology remains in early stages, experts note it poses a structural vulnerability to Bitcoin’s protocol if scalable advances materialize.

The move signals that quantum risk is now entering mainstream asset allocation discussions, prompting some institutional investors to reevaluate their crypto exposure.

Disclaimer

Bitcoin price has once again notched a strong higher high, pushing to the doorstep of a key resistance near $98,100. The structure has remained constructive since the November rebound, when price flipped the trend and started reclaiming levels that previously acted as bearish pressure. After tagging the $98,000 zone, momentum has cooled, and BTC is now compressing into a tight range. Sellers have repeatedly defended the $97,000 area, while buyers continue to absorb supply near $95,000. This has left a clear footprint of accumulation versus distribution as volatility tightens.

With Bitcoin now coiling between active shorts overhead and late longs trapped beneath, the next move is likely to be decisive. The key question is no longer whether BTC is strong, but which side gets forced to unwind first.

BTC Liquidity is Getting Stacked on Both SidesBitcoin is stuck in a classic “pause after impulse” phase. After a strong run-up, BTC is now compressing near the mid-$95K zone. Here, the buyers absorb dips and sellers defend overhead supply. This kind of tight range often acts like a pressure cooker, where liquidity builds on both sides before the next move. The chart below highlights where leverage is clustered and where stop losses likely sit. It also indicates which zones could trigger a fast breakout or breakdown.

Source: XThis is a 15-minute BTCUSDT CoinAnk view combining liquidity heatmaps, liquidation levels, and a volume profile. Price surged into the high-$97K/near-$98K area, then rotated lower and began consolidating around $95,700. The dense horizontal bands show stacked liquidity, with heavier concentration above $97K–$98K and below $95K. The right-side volume profile suggests strong participation around the mid-range, while “B/S” markers indicate buy/sell activity near key swing zones.

Key liquidity zones to watch nextShort-side risk (resistance): BTC faces layered sell pressure at $96.8K → $97.2K → $97.9K, where short-liquidation clusters sit just above recent local highs. With volume thinning beyond $98K, even a brief push into this band could force shorts to cover and spark a quick squeeze back toward the prior top.

Long-side risk (support): Support is stacked at $95.2K → $94.8K → $94.0K, with a thick pocket of long liquidations below recent lows. Buyers have shown a clear footprint around $95K, but if $94K breaks, downside risk expands into a deeper liquidation zone, potentially dragging price toward $92K.

What to Expect From Bitcoin Price in the Next 48 HoursBitcoin is likely setting up for a range expansion after this tight consolidation. The trigger levels are clear: if BTC pushes through $96.8K–$97.9K and flips $98K into support, a quick short squeeze could occur. On the downside, bulls must defend $95K. A clean break below $94K would invalidate the support thesis and trigger a faster flush below $92K.

Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.

Investment Disclaimer:All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.

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Korea University's Blockchain Research Institute has partnered with Injective, joining its global ecosystem as a validator to strengthen ties between academia and the blockchain industry.

Crypto markets are heading into 2026 with the next major adjustment showing up less in price and more in plumbing, as macro uncertainty collides with a bitcoin BTC cycle increasingly shaped by institutional flows and tightening market structure, according to a new outlook from Kraken.

In a note published on Thursday, Kraken Global Economist Thomas Perfumo argued that bitcoin remains the primary lens for risk sentiment but said the channels for demand, liquidity, and risk have changed. He pointed to the growing role of U.S.-listed spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds and digital asset treasury companies in shaping price discovery — even as headline gains have lagged the scale of inflows.

Perfumo wrote that in 2025, those vehicles represented nearly $44 billion of net spot demand for bitcoin, yet market performance “disappointed relative to expectations,” as long-term holders supplied much of the marketable inventory. "The result is a market that absorbs enormous inflows without the reflexive upside seen in prior cycles," Perfumo stated.

In his view, this structural read has landed as macro forces remain the dominant swing factor. Perfumo described modest growth expectations, sticky inflation, and a slower pace of policy easing as key constraints on risk assets. He warned that periods of calm can mask deferred volatility, particularly if liquidity conditions tighten again.

Kraken’s outlook also presented stablecoins and regulation as additional structural pillars for 2026. Perfumo said stablecoin liquidity has hit all-time highs and asserted that U.S. regulatory momentum — such as stablecoin legislation like the GENIUS Act and the push toward broader market structure reform — could reshape how onchain liquidity forms and where crypto innovation clusters.

At the same time, crypto’s next leg may depend on whether institutional vehicles regain momentum. Kraken said ETF inflows slowed in 2025 versus 2024 and argued that treasury firms could face a tougher path issuing equity as premiums compress, limiting their ability to drive another powerful impulse higher in bitcoin without a clear risk-on backdrop.

Diversification through bitcoin Cathie Wood struck a similar macro-first tone in ARK Invest’s 2026 outlook, highlighting how capital has rotated between traditional hedges and digital assets. Wood noted that in 2025, gold rose 65% while bitcoin slipped 6%, even as bitcoin’s longer-run supply profile remains structurally constrained compared with commodities whose production can respond to price.

Also, Wood posited that bitcoin has maintained a low correlation with major asset classes in recent years, reinforcing its case as a portfolio diversifier during volatile macro regimes. "Interestingly, the correlation between bitcoin and gold is lower than that between the S&P 500 and bonds," she said. “In other words, bitcoin should be a good source of diversification for asset allocators looking for higher returns per unit of risk during the years ahead.”

For traders, the question is whether the recent move toward $100,000 becomes a breakout or a pause. Ruslan Lienkha, chief of markets at YouHodler, said bitcoin looks “undervalued” versus U.S. equities after months of divergence and expects the market to either retest $90,000 or continue toward $100,000, which he described as the next significant resistance level.

Beyond bitcoin Beyond bitcoin, Kraken flagged tokenization and DeFi token economics as longer-dated drivers that could influence liquidity formation in 2026. Analysts from Standard Chartered shared a similar view. As The Block previously reported, the bank expects Ethereum to outperform its peers as more institutions onboard tokenized real-world assets to the network.

Perfumo added that tokenized financial assets have grown sharply over the past year and stated that tokenization of widely held assets — including large-cap U.S. equities — could open new sources of global demand and onchain settlement activity.

The throughline across all three views is that 2026 may look less like a familiar crypto “cycle” and more like a macro-driven stress test, where structure — how liquidity enters, how it gets expressed, and where it concentrates — matters as much as price.

Disclaimer: The Block is an independent media outlet that delivers news, research, and data. As of November 2023, Foresight Ventures is a majority investor of The Block. Foresight Ventures invests in other companies in the crypto space. Crypto exchange Bitget is an anchor LP for Foresight Ventures. The Block continues to operate independently to deliver objective, impactful, and timely information about the crypto industry. Here are our current financial disclosures.

© 2026 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

It is tied to Cardano (ADA) and Chainlink (LINK), alongside Stellar (XLM), this coming February 9, pending regulatory approval. These standardized agreements allow traders to buy or sell a contract at a set price in the future, offering a regulated way to manage risk or gain exposure to digital assets without holding the tokens directly.

What the Futures Launch Means for Markets Futures are agreements to trade an asset at a future date for a set price. They help institutions hedge price swings or express views on future market moves without owning the asset itself. For example, a fund worried about ADA’s price could use a futures contract to balance potential losses, rather than buying and selling ADA tokens directly on unregulated platforms.

Our Crypto product suite is growing with new Cardano, Chainlink and Stellar futures. 🚀

Available in both larger and micro sizes, these contracts will offer the capital efficiency and versatility to expand your strategy. ➡️ https://t.co/kl3EMcEzFi pic.twitter.com/HUC6rUPSSP

— CME Group (@CMEGroup) January 15, 2026

CME Group will offer both standard and micro contract sizes for ADA and LINK, easing access for a range of participants. Standard contracts represent larger positions, while micro contracts let smaller traders engage with less capital at risk. This is especially relevant in early 2026 as data shows crypto derivatives volume at CME increasing sharply.

JUST IN: @CMEGroup, the world’s largest derivatives exchange, has announced LINK and Micro LINK futures contracts.https://t.co/t9Fa3JBKIE pic.twitter.com/QXeprcvbFA

— Chainlink (@chainlink) January 15, 2026

Alongside Cardano and Chainlink, CME already lists futures for Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, and Solana. Expanding this lineup reflects growing institutional interest in regulated access to digital assets beyond the two biggest chains.

More About Chainlink Chainlink Reserve increased its holdings by adding 82,057.64 LINK, bringing the total balance to 1,586,266.80 LINK. The move highlights ongoing treasury management activity within the Chainlink ecosystem, where reserves are used to support long term development, incentives, and network stability.

⚡️ LATEST: Chainlink Reserve added 82,057.64 $LINK, bringing total holdings to 1,586,266.80 $LINK. pic.twitter.com/lRs0x9bSNH

— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) January 15, 2026

Steady reserve growth can signal confidence in the project’s future and a focus on maintaining resources to fund operations as the network continues to expand.

Disclaimer The information provided by Altcoin Buzz is not financial advice. It is intended solely for educational, entertainment, and informational purposes. Any opinions or strategies shared are those of the writer/reviewers, and their risk tolerance may differ from yours. We are not liable for any losses you may incur from investments related to the information given. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are high-risk assets; therefore, conduct thorough due diligence. Copyright Altcoin Buzz Pte Ltd.

Cover image via www.freepik.com Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by our writers are their own and do not represent the views of U.Today. The financial and market information provided on U.Today is intended for informational purposes only. U.Today is not liable for any financial losses incurred while trading cryptocurrencies. Conduct your own research by contacting financial experts before making any investment decisions. We believe that all content is accurate as of the date of publication, but certain offers mentioned may no longer be available.

Today is Friday, Jan. 16, and the crypto market just gave us three major setups going into the weekend: XRP saw a 1.21% supply dip due to the use of ETF, Shiba Inu (SHIB) triggered a golden cross with 23% upside to the 200-day average and Cardano just nailed a legendary cup-and-handle formation with 28% rally potential.

TL;DR$1.51 billion worth of XRP now parked inside U.S. ETFs — 1.21% of supply off the table.Shiba Inu (SHIB) golden cross between 23 and 50-day MAs targets $0.00001044, or 23% upside.Cardano (ADA) forms classic breakout pattern, sets sights on $0.517 if $0.423 neckline is cleared.XRP stunned with $1.5 billion cut from circulationXRP just hit a big milestone that not many people are talking about, but many will be soon: as of Jan. 15, $1.51 billion in XRP is now locked inside U.S. spot ETFs. That is 1.21% of XRP's total supply, wrapped and taken out of the trading pool.

This is not a burn, though. These tokens are not gone, but they are basically out of sight for now. They are passive and not feeding volatility. That is the structural change that no one is pricing in for XRP, as it seems by looking at the TradingView chart.

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After cooling slightly in early January, inflows surged again this week, adding $55.71 million across XRPC (Canary), XRPZ (Franklin) and GXRP (Grayscale). This latest push brings the total inflows of ETFs to $1.27 billion, with most of it now converted into XRP and held in custody. This makes XRP the third most accumulated altcoin by ETF volume, behind only BTC and ETH.

Source: SoSoValueKey tickers like XRPZ and GXRP each added over $3 million in daily inflow, while Bitwise's XRP product leads with $7.16 million in new buys. Meanwhile, $659,000 flowed out of XRPC (Canary) — the only negative print of the day.

With this level of demand, the price structure is showing signs of anchoring near the ETF Net Asset Values, currently orbiting $2.01-$2.07, per SoSoValue. XRP is currently holding near $2.10 after a surge in early January, and the next move will depend on whether buyers can push the price back up to $2.32, which is the 200-day moving average.

If inflows keep up and Q1 ETF demand hits $2 billion, XRP might enter a new phase: low-volatility institutional behavior. Think less cryptocurrency, more commodity.

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Shiba Inu (SHIB) finally delivers golden cross: Get ready for 23% rallyShiba Inu just did something it had not done since November: it closed above its 50-day average. And more importantly, it confirmed a golden cross between the 23-day and 50-day moving averages — a setup that targets the 200-day moving average at $0.00001044, exactly 23% above the current price.

This is more than just a technical thing; the popular meme coin is close to overtaking a bunch of so-called utility coins in the CoinMarketCap ranking. Its current valuation of $4.98 billion is just $100-200 million away from flipping Hedera (HBAR), Litecoin (LTC) and even stablecoin Dai (DAI). 

SHIB/USD by TradingViewIf things keep going like this for the Shiba Inu coin, it might even pass Avalanche (AVAX) at $5.92 billion.

Momentum is not guaranteed, but it is growing, as the price structure has improved a lot. SHIB has reclaimed its 50-day curve and is sitting just below $0.00000900 at the moment, with the trigger zone at $0.0000095. Once it is breached, the repricing could happen fast — just like it did in March 2024, when a similar formation led to a 39% move in just two weeks.

The golden cross is rare on SHIB because it is pretty volatile, but when it happens, SHIB often jumps up in the ranks quickly. The next few sessions will show if this is a fakeout or the start of SHIB's Q1 leaderboard breakout.

Is Cardano next silver? Legendary bull pattern says yesCardano has one of the clearest cup-and-handle patterns in the whole crypto market right now, and it is not just a bullish sign on paper. This setup led to 100%+ price hikes in gold and silver last year, making them the first and second most valuable assets. In the world.

The technicals are spot-on: a deep, rounded base, which is the cup, followed by a narrow handle formation that is currently ranging between $0.387 and $0.404, all compressing beneath the neckline at $0.423. If ADA breaks above that level, the measured move points to $0.517, which is a 28% rally from spot, as visible on Ali Martinez's chart.

Source: Ali MartinezThe situation is especially important because it is happening to a top 10 altcoin during a low-volatility phase. While Ethereum is stalling and XRP is seeing inflows, diverting price action sideways, Cardano's ADA is now one of the few majors with a fresh structure and upside trigger.

The pattern mirrors setups that previously launched silver and gold out of multiyear accumulation phases. 

If Cardano follows the script, this breakout could be the start of a sustained multi-week rally. This could put an end to all the speculation about ADA's sustainability among the crypto elite.

Is Bitcoin about to detonate altcoin breakouts?Bitcoin's price is still hovering around $96,000, and the ETF flow data for Jan. 15 shows $100 million worth of inflows. You can see volatility compression across the board, but that is exactly when setups tend to break out — a quiet spell, then boom.

XRP: Holding around $2.05, right below the 200-day MA of $2.32. Keep an eye on how much is flowing into the ETF. The price might hit the $2.07 NAV zone before any push.Shiba Inu (SHIB): The trend is back on track with a golden cross. The key trigger zone is still at $0.00000950, with a target of $0.00001044. And the flows are getting faster and faster.Cardano (ADA): Watch the $0.423 neckline for a cup-and-handle breakout. If it is cleared, the target pattern is $0.517.Weekend moves might depend on whether BTC breaks its own compression range. If that happens, we could see a surge of capital into breakout setups like SHIB and ADA, while XRP continues to be driven by rebalancing related to the ETF. 

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Interactive Brokers adds USDC deposits, giving clients instant funding and faster access to global markets.

Market Sentiment:

Bullish Bearish Neutral

Published: January 16, 2026 │ 11:00 AM GMT

Created by Kornelija Poderskytė from DailyCoin

Interactive Brokers (IBKR), one of the largest investing brokerages in the world, has introduced a feature allowing eligible clients to fund their accounts using USD Coin (USDC). 

The platform now supports near-instant stablecoin deposits 24/7, including weekends and holidays, giving clients access to trading across over 170 global markets within minutes.

How Stablecoin Funding WorksClients can send USDC from personal crypto wallets to a secure wallet generated by Zerohash on supported networks, including Ethereum, Solana, and Base. 

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Once received, IBKR automatically converts the stablecoins into U.S. dollars, which are credited to the client’s brokerage account. IBKR does not charge deposit fees, however, clients are responsible for blockchain network fees, and Zerohash applies a 0.3% conversion fee per deposit, with a minimum of $1.

The brokerage said the service provides a faster, lower-cost alternative to traditional bank wires, which are often limited by processing times and international transfer restrictions.

IBKR plans to add support for Ripple’s RLUSD and PayPal’s PYUSD next week, broadening client options and streamlining deposits via digital assets.

IBKR Sees Rapid Account GrowthInteractive Brokers offers trading across multiple asset classes, including stocks, options, futures, forex, bonds, commodities, funds, and cryptocurrencies, operating in over 160 global markets in 28 currencies and serving clients in more than 200 countries. 

Stock investing is increasingly popular globally and via mobile devices, trends that have helped IBKR grow its client base and capture market share in deposits.

As of December, IBKR had 4.4 million active client accounts, a 32% year-over-year increase, driving revenue growth to $1.655 billion in Q3, up 21% year-over-year.

Following the announcement, IBKR’s stock rose nearly 4% to $75.50, an all-time high at the time of reporting.

Why This MattersStablecoin deposits enable clients to fund their accounts more quickly and access global markets with greater efficiency. Interactive Brokers joins a growing number of brokerages bridging cryptocurrency with traditional finance, offering investors greater speed, flexibility, and liquidity.

Discover DailyCoin’s hottest crypto news now:
Solana’s Seeker Phone Drops Massive Airdrop: Up to 750K SKR Per User
CME Unleashes Cardano & Stellar Futures: Big ODL Boost?

People Also Ask:What is Interactive Brokers (IBKR)?

Interactive Brokers is a global brokerage firm offering trading in stocks, options, futures, forex, bonds, commodities, funds, and cryptocurrencies. It operates in over 160 markets across 28 currencies and serves clients in more than 200 countries.

How does funding a brokerage account with USDC work?

Clients send USDC from a personal crypto wallet to a brokerage-provided wallet. Once received, the brokerage converts it into USD and credits the client’s account, usually within minutes.

What blockchains can I use for USDC deposits?

Deposits can often be sent via supported networks such as Ethereum, Solana, and Base, but availability depends on the brokerage’s infrastructure.

How fast are USDC deposits?

Deposits are typically near-instant and available 24/7, unlike traditional bank transfers that may take several hours or days and may not process on weekends or holidays.

DailyCoin's Vibe Check: Which way are you leaning towards after reading this article?

Market Sentiment

0% Neutral

This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered trading or investment advice. Nothing herein shall be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. Trading forex, cryptocurrencies, and CFDs pose a considerable risk of loss.

In 2025, Binance cemented its crypto market dominance, handling nearly $7 trillion in spot trades and over $25 trillion in Bitcoin perpetual futures.

Brian Njuguna2 min read

16 January 2026, 12:01 PM

Source: ShutterstockBinance Dominates Crypto Market in 2025 with Unmatched Liquidity and ActivityIn 2025, Binance solidified its status as the crypto market leader, dominating trading volume, liquidity, and on-chain activity, setting an unprecedented benchmark, according to analyst Ali Martinez.

Binance dominated global crypto in 2025, logging nearly $7 trillion in spot volume and over $25 trillion in Bitcoin perpetual futures, far ahead of other crypto exchanges, while holding the deepest stablecoin reserves to ensure unmatched liquidity and execution, even in turbulent markets.

Well, Binance’s dominance goes beyond trading volume, it reflects unmatched reliability and infrastructure. While other exchanges faced congestion and liquidity gaps, Binance consistently delivered seamless execution and deep order books, cementing its status as the preferred platform for retail and institutional traders alike.

While Binance led the market in 2025, Bybit, MEXC, and Crypto.com followed in spot volume, showing strong adoption and innovation. Yet none matched Binance’s unmatched combination of trading volume, liquidity, and on-chain activity.

Binance’s performance highlights a key market lesson that true dominance stems from reliable infrastructure, deep liquidity, and efficient execution. 

As crypto markets mature, platforms that deliver consistent usability and secure, liquid markets will shape the long-term landscape, making Binance a bellwether for market health and activity.

ConclusionBinance’s 2025 performance shows that true crypto leadership isn’t just about price swings. Leading in spot and futures volumes, holding the largest stablecoin reserves, and driving record on-chain activity, Binance proved that liquidity, reliability, and execution define dominance. 

While Bybit, MEXC, and Crypto.com posted strong results, Binance’s scale and infrastructure set the industry benchmark, cementing its position as the central hub for traders and investors.

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Brian Njuguna is a seasoned crypto journalist at Coinpaper, specializing in blockchain innovation, market trends, and regulatory developments. With a background in economics and years of experience covering the digital asset space, Brian delivers sharp, data-driven insights that cut through the hype. His reporting bridges global crypto narratives with emerging market perspectives, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience.

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TLDR Ethereum ETFs saw a total daily net inflow of $164.37 million, with cumulative inflows reaching $12.91 billion. ETHA on NASDAQ leads with the highest 1-day net inflow of $149.16 million and net assets of $11.75 billion. ETH on NYSE posted a 1-day net inflow of $15.21 million, with net assets of $2.52 billion. Several Ethereum ETFs, including ETHE, FETH, and ETHW, reported no net inflows or outflows. TETH and QETH on CBOE also showed no net inflows, with net assets of $41.56 million and $28.59 million, respectively. According to an update by SoSoValue as of January 15, the total daily net inflow across Ethereum ETFs stands at $164.37 million. The cumulative total net inflow has reached $12.91 billion, with a total value traded of $1.59 billion. The total net assets for these Ethereum ETFs are $20.46 billion, representing 5.15% of the Ethereum market cap.

ETHA Leads Ethereum ETFs with $149.16M Inflow Tracking the market trend of individual Ethereum ETFs, ETHA on NASDAQ leads with the highest 1-day net inflow of $149.16 million.  The net assets for ETHA stand at $11.75 billion, capturing a 2.96% share of Ethereum’s market.

Source: SoSoValue (Ethereum ETFs) The ETF’s market price is $24.83, down by -2.97%, with a daily value traded of $966.01 million and a daily volume of 38.54 million. ETH on NYSE posted a 1-day net inflow of $15.21 million and holds net assets of $2.52 billion.

The ETF’s premium/discount increased by +0.05%, but the market price fell by -2.91%. It represents a 0.63% share of Ethereum’s market. The daily value traded was $261.36 million, with a volume of 8.34 million shares.

Other Ethereum ETFs Record Zero Inflow and Outflow ETHE on NYSE reported no inflows, with a 1-day net inflow of $0. The ETF’s premium/discount showed a slight increase of +0.01%.  FETH on CBOE reported no net inflows, with net assets of $2.67 billion. The Ethereum ETF holds a 0.62% share of Ethereum’s market, and its market price decreased by -2.93%, closing at $32.78.

ETHW on NYSE saw $0 inflows or outflows, with net assets of $454.59 million. ETHE on CBOE reported a minor decrease of -0.04% in its premium, with a net inflow of $0. EZET Ethereum ETF on CBOE has no net inflow, with a small premium/discount change of -0.03%.

TETH on CBOE had no net inflow, with net assets of $41.56 million, representing just 0.01% of the Ethereum market share. The ETF’s market price dropped by -2.87% to $16.42. It traded $6.88 million with 415.20K shares. QETH on CBOE showed no net inflow of $0.00, with net assets at $28.59 million, holding 0.01% of Ethereum’s market.

Matrixport says Bitcoin’s on‑chain health is improving after Q4 stress, with downside risks fading but limited new capital arguing for selective, low‑leverage exposure.

Summary

Matrixport notes Bitcoin’s Q4 2024 selling pressure and liquidity stress are easing, with structural supports holding and downside risks looking more contained.​ Valuation and positioning indicators have stabilized, yet a lack of strong spot inflows and long‑term holder urgency still caps breakout potential.​ The firm recommends a measured, selective strategy rather than aggressive risk‑on, keeping leverage tight while BTC grinds out of its fragile phase.​ Cryptocurrency analytics firm Matrixport said Bitcoin’s (BTC) on-chain structure has begun to recover following stress observed in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the company’s latest market assessment.

Matrixport offers Bitcoin outlook The market outlook appears more constructive if prices remain above critical structural support levels, the company stated. Matrixport reported that various valuation and positioning indicators have stabilized, suggesting downside risks have diminished and the market is emerging from a fragile period rather than entering a new sharp decline.

Significant obstacles to recovery remain, according to the analysis. Limited new capital inflows and a lack of apparent urgency among long-term investors are constraining upward momentum, Matrixport said.

Strong breakouts are unlikely to be sustainable without fresh money inflows into the market, the company stated.

Current conditions favor a measured and selective approach rather than aggressive positioning, Matrixport noted in its overall assessment.

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Protests, inflation and local currency collapse in Iran have prompted citizens to turn to Bitcoin as a hedge against inflation. Iranians have been withdrawing BTC from exchanges to their personal wallets.

Blockchain intelligence firm Chainalysis observed a significant shift in the on-chain behavior from December 28, 2025, to January 8, 2026.

When Iran’s blanket internet blackout began early this month, the number of daily transfers to personal wallets increased, Chainalysis said.

“This surge suggests Iranians are taking possession of Bitcoin at a markedly higher rate during protests than they were beforehand.”

Iranians Respond to Rial CollapseIranian currency – rial – sank to an all-time low, nearly losing all of its value against major currencies like the euro. Since late 2025, the currency has continued to weaken sharply in the open market with viral claims that it has fallen to ‘zero’ against USD.

As reported earlier, the country has also been offering to sell advanced weapons systems, including missiles and warships, to foreign governments for crypto.

For many Iranians, digital assets have become an “element of resistance,” providing liquidity in the restricted economic environment.

“The pattern of increased BTC withdrawals during times of heightened instability reflects a global trend we’ve observed in other regions experiencing war, economic turmoil, or government crackdowns,” Chainalysis report noted.

Comparison of daily average withdrawals pre and post protests. Source: ChainalysisIRGC’s Dominance Within Iran’s Crypto LandscapeChainalysis noted that apart from ordinary Iranians, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a multi-service primary branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, has also extensively pivoted to crypto.

The IRGC’s on-chain activity showed 50% of Iran’s crypto ecosystem in Q4 2025, reflecting its dominance in the nation’s economy.

“Iran’s crypto ecosystem reached over $7.78 billion in 2025, having grown at a notably faster pace compared to the year prior,” the report added.

Last week, two UK-based crypto exchanges processed approximately $1 billion in transactions linked to the IRGC.

The institutional bitcoin manager expands its mandate as demand for professional risk-managed digital asset strategies grows.

CME Group, the world’s largest derivatives marketplace, is set to broaden its crypto product lineup with the launch of futures contracts for Cardano (ADA), Chainlink (LINK), and Stellar (XLM). Trading is scheduled to begin on February 9, subject to regulatory approval. The move marks another step in CME’s push to bring more regulated crypto derivatives to the market, particularly for established altcoins beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.

New Futures Contracts for Major AltcoinsThe newly announced futures will be offered in both standard and micro contract sizes, making them accessible to a wide range of market participants. Standard contracts will represent 100,000 ADA, 5,000 LINK, or 250,000 XLM, while micro contracts will cover 10,000 ADA, 250 LINK, or 12,500 XLM.

By introducing micro-sized contracts, CME is lowering the barrier to entry for smaller traders while still catering to institutional investors that require larger exposure and capital efficiency. According to CME, the contracts are designed to offer greater flexibility, allowing traders to hedge risk or build more precise trading strategies within a regulated framework.

Rising Demand for Regulated Crypto DerivativesThe launch comes amid strong growth in CME’s crypto derivatives business. In 2025, CME reported record activity across its crypto products, with average daily volume jumping 139% to around 278,000 contracts. This represented roughly $12 billion in notional value, highlighting increasing demand from institutions for regulated exposure to digital assets.

With the addition of ADA, LINK, and XLM futures, CME continues to expand a crypto lineup that already includes Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Solana futures and options. All products remain subject to oversight by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), reinforcing CME’s focus on compliance and regulatory clarity.

Muted Price Reaction, Strong Long-Term SignalDespite the significance of the announcement, prices of Cardano, Chainlink, and Stellar showed little immediate reaction. ADA and XLM posted modest daily declines, while LINK remained relatively stable, reflecting broader market softness rather than asset-specific weakness.

Market observers note that muted short-term price action is not unusual following CME announcements. Similar patterns were seen when CME introduced futures and options for other major altcoins. Over time, however, these listings tend to signal growing institutional acceptance rather than immediate speculative momentum.

What This Means for the Crypto MarketCrypto user, Marco Salzmann, says CME’s upcoming futures for ADA, LINK, and XLM are a market-structure milestone, not a hype event. He explains that CME is a core institutional derivatives venue, offering standardized contracts, central clearing, daily mark-to-market, and strict risk controls, features institutions prefer over most crypto-native platforms. 

These futures improve price discovery, enable hedging, basis trades, and professional market making, helping deepen liquidity over time. However, he stresses that futures aren’t automatically bullish, as they also enable short exposure and can raise short-term volatility. The real signals to watch after launch are volume, open interest, spreads, basis stability, and orderly price action. For XLM in particular, he frames the CME listing as a key step toward institutional-grade market maturity rather than an instant price catalyst.

Never Miss a Beat in the Crypto World!Stay ahead with breaking news, expert analysis, and real-time updates on the latest trends in Bitcoin, altcoins, DeFi, NFTs, and more.

FAQsWhen will CME launch futures for ADA, LINK, and XLM?

CME plans to launch Cardano, Chainlink, and Stellar futures on February 9, pending regulatory approval, expanding its regulated crypto derivatives lineup.

Why is CME launching futures for altcoins like ADA, LINK, and XLM?

The launch reflects growing institutional demand for regulated exposure, better price discovery, and risk management beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Are CME crypto futures bullish for ADA, LINK, and XLM prices?

Not necessarily. Futures improve market structure and liquidity but also allow short selling, so price impact depends on long-term usage, not hype.

How do CME futures benefit the broader crypto market?

They enhance transparency, hedging, and institutional participation, helping mature crypto markets through regulated trading and stronger liquidity.

Trust with CoinPedia:CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.

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ARK’s Cathie Wood says Bitcoin’s low correlation and fixed supply make it a powerful diversification tool, after a 360% price surge since late 2022.

Summary

ARK’s 2026 outlook shows Bitcoin’s weekly return correlation to gold at 0.14 and to bonds at 0.06, below links seen among traditional assets.​ Bitcoin’s protocol caps supply growth near 0.8% annually before dropping to ~0.4%, creating structural scarcity as demand from institutions rises.​ Wood says BTC’s 360% gain since late 2022 could push it toward a core role in both retail and institutional portfolios as a diversifier.​ ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood stated in the firm’s 2026 outlook report that Bitcoin will serve as an effective diversification tool for investment portfolios in coming years, according to the report released by the investment management company.

Wood noted that Bitcoin’s (BTC) low correlation with traditional asset classes including gold, stocks, and bonds provides investors with potential for higher returns per unit of risk, the report stated.

An analysis conducted by ARK Invest examining weekly returns between January 2020 and early January 2026 demonstrated Bitcoin’s portfolio diversification characteristics, according to the firm’s data. The correlation coefficient between Bitcoin and gold measured 0.14, compared to the 0.27 correlation between the S&P 500 index and bonds, the analysis showed.

Bitcoin’s correlation with bonds registered at 0.06, while its correlation with the S&P 500 reached 0.28, according to the data. Both figures remain limited compared to correlations between traditional asset classes, the report indicated.

Wood attributed Bitcoin’s long-term value proposition to its supply structure, stating that the Bitcoin protocol strictly limits supply growth. The annual rate of increase in new Bitcoin supply is projected at approximately 0.8% over the next two years, declining to around 0.4% thereafter, according to the forecast. The mathematically determined and predictable supply structure creates natural scarcity, Wood stated in the report.

The combination of limited and predictable supply with increasing global demand has driven Bitcoin’s price approximately 360% higher since the end of 2022, according to Wood. The ARK Invest CEO stated that continuation of these dynamics could position Bitcoin in a more central role in portfolios for institutional and individual investors.

ARK Invest is a New York-based investment management firm specializing in thematic and disruptive innovation strategies.

PENGU Price Misses the Signal in Pudgy Penguins’ Manchester City DealPudgy Penguins partners with Manchester City to launch premium NFTs and merchandise.Deal targets mainstream sports fandom, prioritizing brand expansion over token speculation.PENGU price stays muted, reflecting a long-term cultural strategy, not short-term hypePudgy Penguins announced a landmark partnership with Premier League football giant Manchester City.

This marks one of the most high-profile crossovers yet between a native Web3 brand and global sports fandom.

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Pudgy Penguins’ Manchester City Deal Signals a New NFT PlaybookThe collaboration will launch an exclusive NFT collection alongside premium merchandise, expanding Pudgy Penguins’ reach far beyond the traditional crypto audience.

“We’re excited to announce that we will be collaborating with Man City on a premium collectible and merch release to bring Pengu to the millions of Man City fans around the world,” wrote Pudgy Penguins in a post.

The team added that the partnership is designed to work both ways. This means bringing PENGU to their fans globally, while also introducing Man City to the wider Pudgy Penguins audience.

Working with Man City on this high-end collectible and merch drop will bring Pengu to their fans globally, while also introducing Man City to the wider Pudgy Penguins audience.

We are ecstatic to bring Pengu to the world of football alongside Man City on January 17th. pic.twitter.com/MQ3PnHkfF4

— Pudgy Penguins (@pudgypenguins) January 15, 2026 The NFT collection and merchandise drop is scheduled for January 17, 2026, and will be targeted at an 18+ audience.

With Pudgy Penguins citing “high-end collectible and merch drop,” it signals emphasis on premium positioning rather than mass-market NFTs. This strategy mirrors recent shifts across the sector toward quality, brand recognition, and real-world cultural relevance.

It is worth noting what this partnership means for Pudgy Penguins, as it represents a significant strategic expansion. Manchester City boasts one of the largest and most commercially engaged global fanbases in football.

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This offers Pudgy Penguins access to millions of potential customers already accustomed to spending on licensed merchandise and collectibles tied to their favorite club.

By aligning with a top-tier sports brand, Pudgy Penguins continues its push to position PENGU as a mainstream intellectual property rather than a purely crypto-native character.

Partnership announcement featuring Pudgy Penguins character in Manchester City jersey (Source: Pudgy Penguins/X)The move also highlights how established sports organizations are increasingly experimenting with digital collectibles after earlier NFT cycles faltered.

Rather than launching speculative standalone NFTs, collaborations like this focus on brand storytelling, physical merchandise, and fandom. Notably, these are areas where football clubs already excel.

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Despite the headline-grabbing announcement, the PENGU token showed no immediate or notable price reaction.

Pudgy Penguins (PENGU) Price Performance. Source: CoinGeckoThe PENGU price is down by almost 5% over the last 24 hours and was trading at $0.01222 as of this writing.

This partnership appears to be more of a long-term brand play than a short-term trading catalyst. Still, sentiment around the token remains broadly optimistic.

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Tazman, another popular user on X, pointed to broader ecosystem momentum, indicating that the PENGU price could still see further upside in 2026.  

“…just look at how $PENGU is ripping in 2026, up 60% since 2025!!!! Be confident about 2026, the penguins will make themselves known loud and clear,” wrote Tazman.

Tazman noted that many major projects, including OKX and Crypto.com, are already referencing penguins in their posts.

While price action remains muted for now, the Pudgy Penguins–Manchester City partnership mirrors a broader trend. Successful Web3 brands are increasingly competing on cultural relevance and global reach.

This is in contrast to focusing solely on on-chain metrics, and narrowly resembles what BitMine has just done.

If executed well, the January 17 launch could become a blueprint for how NFTs intersect with mainstream sports fandom in the next phase of crypto adoption.

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Key NotesEthereum's month-over-month activity retention nearly doubled, with new active addresses rising from 4M to 8M.Daily transaction counts hit a record 2.8 million, a 125% increase year-over-year.Growth is attributed to significantly lower transaction fees and surging stablecoin usage, facilitated by Layer-2 networks. Ethereum’s user base is exhibiting its stickiest behavior in years, with Month-over-Month Activity Retention nearly doubling in the last 30 days.

Data from Glassnode confirms the network added roughly 4 million new active addresses this month, bringing the monthly total to 8 million. Unlike previous spikes driven by airdrop farming, this surge coincides with a doubling in retention rates for the “New” cohort.

Ethereum’s Month-over-Month Activity Retention shows a sharp spike in the “New” cohort, indicating a surge in first-time interacting addresses over the past 30 days.
This reflects a notable influx of new wallets engaging with the Ethereum network, rather than activity being… pic.twitter.com/h8Zw7hXOSX

— glassnode (@glassnode) January 15, 2026

ETH ETH $3 304 24h volatility: 1.8% Market cap: $398.75 B Vol. 24h: $26.14 B trades at $3,310 (-1.6%), consolidating recent gains.

The Data: Stickiness over Speculation The breakdown from on-chain analytics providers highlights a fundamental shift:

Active addresses surged from ~410,000 to >1 million year-over-year (Etherscan). Daily throughput hit a record 2.8 million transactions, a 125% YoY increase. Glassnode wrote:

“Ethereum’s Month-over-Month Activity Retention shows a sharp spike in the ‘New’ cohort, indicating a surge in first-time interacting addresses over the past 30 days.”

Execution vs. Settlement The volume spike paradoxically correlates with lower average fees. This validates the roadmap efficacy. Mainnet is successfully offloading execution to Layer-2s (Arbitrum, Base, Optimism) while capturing value through final settlement and stablecoin transfers.

The 2.8 million daily transaction figure reflects the capacity expansion from the recent Fusaka upgrade, which increased block sizes by roughly 33%.

Confidence around Ethereum is improving, with indicators pointing to higher prices fueled by capital inflows into ETFs, stablecoins, and crypto protocols. Staking now locks over 50% of Ether’s total supply. Some market observers, however, note a disconnect between strong on-chain metrics and price action. They reflect skepticism about its value accrual model and macroeconomic headwinds.

The Institutional Take For desk traders, the “New Address” count is usually a vanity metric often polluted by Sybils. The alpha here is the retention doubling.

High retention in a low-fee environment suggests these are actual users (likely interacting via stablecoins or DeFi front-ends) rather than bot nets, which typically exhibit high churn. If this cohort sustains activity through Q1, re-rate ETH’s valuation models to weight “network utility” higher than “deflationary supply,” especially as L2 blob revenue stabilizes.

Disclaimer: Coinspeaker is committed to providing unbiased and transparent reporting. This article aims to deliver accurate and timely information but should not be taken as financial or investment advice. Since market conditions can change rapidly, we encourage you to verify information on your own and consult with a professional before making any decisions based on this content.

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I’m a content writer and editor with extensive experience creating high-quality content across a range of industries. Currently, I serve as the Editor-in-Chief at Coinspeaker, where I lead content strategy, oversee editorial workflows, and ensure that every piece meets the highest standards. In this role, I collaborate closely with writers, researchers, and industry experts to deliver content that not only informs and educates but also sparks meaningful discussion around innovation.

Much of my work focuses on blockchain, cryptocurrencies, artificial intelligence, and software development, where I bring together editorial expertise, subject knowledge, and leadership experience to shape meaningful conversations about technology and its real-world impact. I’m particularly passionate about exploring how emerging technologies intersect with business, society, and everyday life. Whether I’m writing about decentralized finance, AI applications, or the latest in software development, my goal is always to make complex subjects accessible, relevant, and valuable to readers.

My academic background has played an important role in shaping my approach to content. I studied Intercultural Communications, PR, and Translation at Minsk State Linguistic University, and later pursued a Master’s degree in Economics and Management at the Belarusian State Economic University. The combination of linguistic, communication, and business training has given me the ability to translate complex technical and economic concepts into clear, engaging narratives for diverse audiences.

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Julia Sakovich on X

Virtual Accounts on Solana are changing how people use crypto in daily life. Avici has launched a new feature that makes crypto work like a real bank account, without giving up self-custody.  With Virtual Accounts on Solana, Avici connects the fiat world we live in with the crypto tools we trust.

Avici’s Big Idea Most people love crypto for one reason: ownership. You control your money. No bank and no middleman. But we still live in a fiat system where we pay salaries, rent, and handle business payments via bank transfers. Avici fixes this gap.

🚨JUST IN: @AviciMoney has launched named virtual accounts on @solana, offering users a personal account number and IBAN for receiving fiat. Funds sent are automatically converted to stablecoins and credited to the user’s self-custodial wallet. pic.twitter.com/Nb2NerbuI3

— SolanaFloor (@SolanaFloor) January 15, 2026

By introducing named virtual accounts, Avici becomes a real alternative to a normal bank account, built for the internet age.

Virtual Accounts MoonPay powers Avici’s named virtual accounts, and it runs on the Solana network. You get a real bank account number and IBAN. Behind the scenes, Fiat money is automatically converted into stablecoins such as USDC or EUROC. Those stablecoins land in your self-custodial Avici wallet. You own the funds, always.

BREAKING: @AviciMoney now offers 🇺🇸 and 🇪🇺 Named Virtual Accounts powered by @moonpay & @iron

1️⃣ Claim your own named account in the Avici app

2️⃣ Fund fast via SEPA Instant, ACH, Wire, and Direct Deposit

3️⃣ Take full self-custodial control of your money

Live now 🚀 pic.twitter.com/MdwF20hNZ6

— MoonPay 🟣 (@moonpay) January 9, 2026

How Receiving Money Works Here’s a simple example:

Someone sends you $1,000 via a normal USD bank transfer Or €1,000 via SEPA The system converts it to USDC or EUROC The stablecoins arrive in your Avici self-custody account No exchanges. No extra steps.

How Sending Money Works Sending is easy:

You have 1,000 USDC in your Avici wallet You want to pay a contractor who only accepts bank transfers You add their bank details in the Avici app You hit send Avici sends fiat to the recipient. You send stablecoins. One click, and you are good to go.

We shipped virtual accounts.

Your boss pays in fiat.
Your landlord wants fiat.
Your bank thinks it’s still relevant.

Meanwhile you’re just using Avici.

Send and receive USD or EUR via ACH or SEPA like a normal app.

But it’s Avici.
Self custody.
Self sovereignty.
The future. pic.twitter.com/EgTkazpjqX

— Avici (@AviciMoney) January 10, 2026

Why Virtual Accounts on Solana Matter This is why this launch is important:

Self-custody: Your funds stay with you Fiat-friendly: Works with non-crypto users No CEX needed: No off-ramping or extra platforms Global access: Built on Solana for speed and scale This is internet-native finance, powered by stablecoins.

Conclusion Virtual Accounts on Solana bring crypto and fiat together in a way that finally makes sense. Avici lets you live in both worlds without giving up control.

If you want true ownership with real-world usability, this is the bridge we’ve been waiting for. Get started by downloading the Avici app today.

Disclaimer The information discussed by Altcoin Buzz is not financial advice. This is for educational, entertainment and informational purposes only. Any information or strategies are thoughts and opinions relevant to the accepted levels of risk tolerance of the writer/reviewers, and their risk tolerance may be different from yours. We are not responsible for any losses that you may incur as a result of any investments directly or indirectly related to the information provided. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are high-risk investments, so please do your due diligence.

Copyright Altcoin Buzz Pte Ltd.

While most attention in recent months has focused on publicly traded miners racing to add hashrate or pivot toward AI, one of the fastest-growing bitcoin mining operations has expanded largely outside the spotlight.

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Bitcoin Price has remained steady above $95k, following a slight market cooldown after a week of notable surges.  The cryptocurrency market has seen a 1.18% fall in the last 24 hours, which is a partial reversal of its 4.08% weekly increase.

This loss could be linked to profit-taking following recent rallies and the increasing worries regarding regulatory uncertainties, particularly following a U.S crypto bill being brought into the limelight.

Moreover, market participants are monitoring closely the next Federal Reserve policy meeting, to be held in the first half of January (27-28), which can impact future market trends.

Federal Reserve’s First Meeting of 2026: What to Expect? The first Federal Reserve policy meeting of 2026 is set to take place on January 27 and 28. This crucial event will mark the beginning of the Federal Reserve’s eight regularly scheduled meetings this year. 

This session will be highly observed by investors, economists, and market watchers to get insights on the U.S economic future.

During this meeting, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will discuss the latest economic developments, such as inflation and employment statistics.

They will deliberate on the monetary policy of the U.S. and make a decision on whether to lower the federal funds rate or not, which is in the range of 3.50 and 3.75 at present. This is the lowest rate since the beginning of 2023, following three rate reductions in December 2025.

On January 28, the Fed will give its decision, which will be normally accompanied with the Fed Chair press conference. The result of this gathering will probably affect the financial markets, including cryptocurrencies such as the Bitcoin price. 

Investors will be eager to know whether the Fed will halt or further lower rates in 2026, which may affect different types of assets greatly.

Bitcoin ETFs Mark Fourth Consecutive Day of Positive Inflows On January 15, Bitcoin spot ETFs recorded a net inflow of $100 million (ET) and that was the fourth consecutive day of net inflows.

Source: Sosovalue data Nevertheless, there were more drops in the overall market after some rises in key assets. This reduction in inflows of ETFs is an indication of the possible change in market momentum with the decline of interest among investors. The trend indicates a temporary pause in the bullish activity.

Bitcoin Price Prediction: Key Levels To Watch The latest BTC price has shown a slight dip today, standing at $95,674 at the time of writing.  This price follows a recent different upward trend that took the price nearer to the level of $97,500 resistance.

The market trend at the moment is that Bitcoin is facing some resistance at the point of $100,000, and this might cause any short-term fluctuation.

The RSI is 57, which indicates that Bitcoin is not overbought and oversold yet. In the meantime, there is also a positive divergence in the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD).

The MACD line stands at 1,155, indicating the possibility of upward trending in the short run. Nonetheless, the red bars illustrating the MACD histogram are a cause of concern, and it suggests mild bearish pressure.

Resistance levels for Bitcoin price are set at $97,500, and a breakthrough could target the $100,000 mark as the future Bitcoin outlook remains bullish. 

Source: BTC/USD 4-hour chart: Tradingview On the other side, the next target may be found at support of $92,000 and $95,000, which will be considered as the next target in case there is a downward move.

To sum it up, the price of Bitcoin is resilient above $95k amidst the recent drops in the market. The next Federal Reserve meeting is likely to have a great influence on the future prices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, particularly interest rate changes, can influence investor behavior, affecting the demand for assets like Bitcoin. Lower rates typically encourage investment in riskier assets like cryptocurrencies.

The market cooldown can be attributed to profit-taking after recent rallies and growing concerns over regulatory uncertainties, particularly with a U.S. crypto bill.

3 Mid-cap Privacy Coins Saw Heavy Accumulation by Whales in January.Whales accumulated mid-cap privacy coins as capital rotated from large-cap leaders globally.Horizen, Railgun and Decred showed strong on-chain signals and rising whale interest.Analysts expect privacy narratives to attract further investment throughout the 2026 cycle.While leading privacy coins such as Monero (XMR), Zcash (ZEC), and Dash (DASH) have already reached multi-billion-dollar market capitalizations and posted strong gains, capital flows appear to be shifting toward lower-cap privacy coins.

January recorded notable accumulation activity in several mid- to low-cap altcoins. This may reflect whales’ positioning ahead of expectations that the privacy coin narrative will continue to attract capital in 2026.

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1. Horizen (ZEN)Horizen is a privacy layer protocol built on Base, Ethereum’s Layer 2 network.

Horizen aims to deliver privacy while remaining compliant with regulations. The protocol enables institutions, enterprises, and users to conduct transactions and computations on-chain in a confidential, verifiable, and legally compliant manner.

ZEN is currently a mid-cap altcoin with a market capitalization of over $226 million. In January, ZEN rose more than 50%. Despite the rebound, it remains down by more than 90% from its 2021 peak.

Grayscale Investment ZEN Holdings. Source: CoinglassZEN is also part of Grayscale’s investment products through the Grayscale Horizen Trust. CoinGlass data shows that Grayscale has increased its ZEN holdings since late 2024. The firm now holds more than 948,000 ZEN, equivalent to over 5% of the circulating supply.

Grayscale’s continued accumulation, despite ZEN falling more than 70% since the end of 2024, signals long-term conviction from Grayscale investors. Previously, Grayscale’s promotion was one of the key factors driving ZEC’s rally last year.

Some investors believe that following the rallies in Monero (XMR) and Dash (DASH), Horizen (ZEN) could be the next candidate.

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“We’ve taken a big position in Horizen (ZEN). This looks primed for an aggressive pump following big gains from XMR and DASH,” The Whale Pod said.

2. Railgun (RAIL)RAILGUN is an on-chain privacy and security system built directly on blockchains such as Ethereum, BSC, Polygon, and Arbitrum.

Railgun uses zero-knowledge (ZK) cryptography to allow users to transact and interact with DeFi anonymously.

RAIL is the governance token of RAILGUN and currently has a market capitalization of over $165 million. Nansen data shows that over the past 30 days, RAIL balances on exchanges declined by more than 5%. At the same time, balances held by whale wallets increased by over 24%.

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RAIL Exchange Balances. Source: NansenA report from Messari, an on-chain analytics platform, stated that in 2025, Railgun processed $2 billion in shielded and unshielded volume. This activity generated $5 million in revenue.

Railgun Quant, a researcher at Messari, noted that at prices below $3, RAIL may be undervalued. The token’s price could potentially double from current levels.

“Even at $3.10, $RAIL is trading at a discount of more than 50% to my RAILGUN valuation model’s base case of $6.26,” Railgun Quant said.

3. Decred (DCR)Decred (DCR) is a Layer 1 blockchain that uses a hybrid Proof-of-Work (PoW) and Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. The network also supports privacy-preserving transactions.

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DCR currently has a market capitalization of over $479 million. Accumulation trends are evident in the rising share of supply staked since Q4 2025.

Decred data shows that more than 10 million DCR are now staked. This represents over 62% of the total supply and marks the highest ratio since March 2025.

Railgun Stake Participation. Source: Decred ChartsAmid growing interest in privacy coins, Decred has entered the top 5 privacy coins by market capitalization on CoinGecko. Analysts expect the price to move beyond the current $27.6 level and potentially reach $60.

“DCR just broke out of accumulation! Inverse head & shoulders confirmed. That shifts the market into markup mode!” analyst AltCryptoTalk predicted.

Experts continue to rate the privacy coin narrative highly for 2026. Large-cap privacy coins with multi-billion-dollar valuations may face pressure to profit-take. Low-cap altcoins carry higher liquidity risks. Mid-cap privacy coins may strike a balance between the two and hold potential to join the billion-dollar market cap club.

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